bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The cell adhesion molecule Sdk1 shapes assembly of a retinal circuit that detects localized edges
Authors: Rochon Pierre-Luc , Theriault Catherine , Rangel Olguin Aline Giselle , Krishnaswamy Arjun
Published: September 2021

Nearly 50 different mouse retinal ganglion cell (RGC) types sample the visual scene for distinct features. RGC feature selectivity arises from their synapses with a specific subset of amacrine (AC) and bipolar cell (BC) types, but how RGC dendrites arborize and collect input from these specific subsets remains poorly understood. Here we examine the hypothesis that RGCs employ molecular recognition systems to meet this challenge. By combining calcium imaging and type-specific histological stains, we define a family of circuits that express the recognition molecule Sidekick-1 (Sdk1), which include a novel RGC type (S1-RGC) that responds to local edges. Genetic and physiological studies revealed that Sdk1 loss selectively disrupts S1-RGC visual responses, which result from a loss of excitatory and inhibitory inputs and selective dendritic deficits on this neuron. We conclude that Sdk1 shapes dendrite growth and wiring to help S1-RGCs become feature selective.
Key auxin response factor (ARF) genes constraining wheat tillering of mutant dmc
Authors: Li Junchang , Jiang Yumei , Zhang Jing , Ni Yongjing , Jiao Zhixin , Li Huijuan , Wang Ting , Zhang Peipei , Guo Wenlong , Li Lei , Liu Hongjie , Zhang Hairong , Li Qiaoyun , Niu Jishan
Published: September 2021

Tillering ability is a key agronomy trait for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production. Studies on a dwarf monoculm wheat mutant (dmc) showed that ARF11 played an important role in tillering of wheat. In this study, a total of 67 ARF family members were identified and clustered to two main classes with four subgroups based on their protein structures. The promoter regions of T. aestivum ARF (TaARF) genes contain a large number of cis-acting elements closely related to plant growth and development, and hormone response. The segmental duplication events occurred commonly and played a major role in the expansion of TaARFs. The gene collinearity degrees of the ARFs between wheat and other grasses, rice and maize, were significantly high. The evolution distances among TaARFs determine their expression profiles, such as homoeologous genes have similar expression profiles, like TaARF4-3A-1, TaARF4-3A-2 and their homoeologous genes. The expression profiles of TaARFs in various tissues or organs indicated TaARF3, TaARF4, TaARF9 and TaARF22 and their homoeologous genes played basic roles during wheat development. TaARF4, TaARF9, TaARF12, TaARF15, TaARF17, TaARF21, TaARF25 and their homoeologous genes probably played basic roles in tiller development. qRT-PCR analyses of 20 representative TaARF genes revealed that the abnormal expressions of TaARF11 and TaARF14 were major causes constraining the tillering of dmc. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) contents in dmc were significantly less than that in Guomai 301 at key tillering stages. Exogenous IAA application significantly promoted wheat tillering, and affected the transcriptions of TaARFs. These data suggested that TaARFs as well as IAA signaling were involved in controlling wheat tillering. This study provided valuable clues for functional characterization of ARFs in wheat.
Prostitución y trata con fines de explotación sexual en la prensa digital española: análisis comparativo de la producción informativa
Authors:   Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Saiz Echezarreta Vanesa , Fernández Romero Diana ,   Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alvarado López María Cruz ,   Universidad de Valladolid (España)
Published: September 2021

Este trabajo propone el análisis comparativo de la información publicada sobre prostitución y trata con fines de explotación sexual en medios españoles en dos períodos, 2013-2014 y 2018, con muestras de 491 y 1122 piezas, respectivamente. La intención es identificar, mediante una triangulación metodológica que incluye el mapeo etnográfico, el análisis de contenido y el discursivo, los indicios y tendencias de la agenda mediática sobre prostitución y trata, los patrones de representación, los relatos dominantes y la importancia que adquieren acontecimientos que atañen a la regulación normativa, moral y política del fenómeno. Se concluye que se detectan continuidades en las temáticas, los relatos y los actores, manteniéndose la prioridad de las acciones policiales y judiciales. Cuantitativamente, la importancia de la información generada por asuntos polémicos es poco relevante, pero algunos de ellos marcan un cambio de tendencia y una ruptura con la continuidad informativa que permite la aparición de nuevos actores y relatos, como la perspectiva del trabajo sexual, que anteriormente recibía una cobertura anecdótica.
Compartición de noticias en redes sociales. Difusión selectiva y poder social
Authors:   Universidad Complutense de Madrid (España), Segado-Boj Francisco , Chaparro-Domínguez María-Ángeles ,   Universidad Complutense de Madrid (España)
Published: September 2021

Este artículo analiza el modo en el que los diferentes objetivos definidos por la teoría del poder social se relacionan con la forma en la que los ciudadanos comparten noticias. Esta teoría postula que las interacciones entre los individuos persiguen alcanzar determinados objetivos por parte de sus interlocutores (recompensa, coerción, legitimación, identificación y demostración de conocimiento). Se busca identificar cómo influyen en las noticias (duras o blandas, emocionales o útiles) que se comparten y dónde (plataformas abiertas asimétricas, como Facebook o Twitter, basadas en modelos de difusión, o entornos cerrados de difusión selectiva como WhatsApp). Se emplea un método de muestreo de experiencias que recogió información acerca de 830 noticias compartidas por 279 participantes en España. Los objetivos más comunes fueron recompensa, legitimación y demostración de conocimiento. Las redes abiertas asimétricas se emplean para compartir noticias con objetivos proselitistas (convencer, persuadir o corregir). Estos objetivos se buscan mediante la difusión de noticias duras, mientras que las noticias blandas se emplean principalmente para recompensar a los contactos, entendido como una manera de estrechar lazos sociales ya existentes. El aspecto emocional (afecto positivo) de las noticias solo adquiere relevancia si el objetivo es la identificación. En el resto de las ocasiones, se comparten preferentemente noticias consideradas útiles.
Las estrategias visuales de la lucha: trabajadoras de la limpieza y del hogar en las formas fílmicas híbridas de enfrentar lo real en España (2000-2020)
Authors:   Universitat de Barcelona, Fraj Herranz Elena , Barreiro González Mª Soliñas ,   Universidade de Santiago de Compostela
Published: September 2021

Este artículo estudia los documentales críticos y activistas realizados en España en los últimos veinte años que abordan la situación de invisibilidad y explotación de las empleadas del hogar y camareras de hotel. En estas películas, los rasgos de las luchas laborales impregnan la factura fílmica. Estos documentales se caracterizan por el trabajo sobre la dialéctica invisibilidad-visibilidad –propia de sus organizaciones sindicales– y por el uso de estrategias de traslación expresiva de las condiciones de trabajo al filme, que son concomitantes con sus formas de organizar la lucha: el relato coral, la creación colectiva y la inclusión de la cotidianeidad y de la familia. Estas producciones huyen de las miradas paternalistas habituales en las producciones cinematográficas comerciales. La muestra de seis películas traza un arco que revela el avance de la precariedad femenina desde el franquismo hasta hoy, destacando el aumento de producciones audiovisuales desde la irrupción de las movilizaciones colectivas de las camareras de hotel. Las piezas presentan una naturaleza híbrida propia del documental feminista, militante y de clase, confrontando los modos de representación, producción y distribución hegemónicos.
Do Japanese students overestimate or underestimate their knowledge of English loanwords more than non-loanwords on yes-no vocabulary tests?
Authors: Stubbe Raymond
Published: September 2021

English loanwords (LWs), gairaigo in Japanese, make up a much greater percentage of the Japanese language than many university English teachers realize, especially if their native language is not Japanese. Unfortunately, a gairaigo bias exists which has made these LWs unpopular amongst teachers and researchers. The aim of this study is to compare student over-estimation and under-estimation of their knowledge of English LWs on yes-no vocabulary tests with an equal number of non-loanwords (NLWs). Undergraduate students from four Japanese universities (n 455) took two vocabulary tests of their receptive and passive recall knowledge of LWs and NLWs. Six LWs and six NLWs from each of the eight JACET 8000 levels were tested in a selfreport yes-no test followed by a passive recall translation test (English to Japanese) of the same 96 items. Overall, over-estimation rates were nearly equal at 24.6% for LWs and 25.8% for NLWs. Additionally, overestimation was more prevalent for NLWs at the higher three frequency levels (1K-3K), nearly equal with LWs at the 4K level and then more prevalent for the LWs at the lower four frequency levels (5K-8K), suggesting that student knowledge of NLWs is weak even at the higher frequency levels. Under-estimation, on the other hand, was much more prevalent for LWs (4.4% versus 0.7%). Six of the 48 LWs actually had higher passive recall test scores than yes-no test scores. These results suggest that although students do not over-estimate their knowledge of LWs more than NLWs on yes-no vocabulary tests, they do underestimate their LW knowledge much more than NLWs.
Vocabulary in a second language: Selection, acquisition, and testing: A commentary on four studies for JALT vocabulary SIG
Authors: Laufer Batia
Published: September 2021

Four papers by Charles Browne, Rachael Ruegg & Cherie Brown, Makoto Yoshii and Junko Yamashita were presented in the morning session of the Third Annual JALT Vocabulary SIG Vocabulary Symposium in Fukuoka, Japan on June 14, 2014. As discussant, it is my pleasure to comment upon each manuscript. These lexical researchers originate from all over Japan: Tokyo, Akita, Kumamoto and Nagoya. Their lexical topics are related to three themes that are central to vocabulary research: selection, acquisition and testing. The papers are concerned with the types of words that should be selected for teaching, with the optimal conditions for vocabulary acquisition and with instruments that measure lexical proficiency, or are used in lexical research. After commenting on each paper in turn, I shall present a few suggestions for their future research.
A test of the new general service list
Authors: Stoeckel Tim , Bennett Phillip
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This paper introduces the New General Service List Test (NGSLT), a diagnostic instrument designed to assess written receptive knowledge ofthe words on the New General Service List (NGSL) (Browne, 2014). The NGSL was introduced in 2013 as an updated version of West’s (1953)original General Service List. It is comprised of 2,800 high frequency headwords plus their inflected forms and is designed to provide maximalcoverage of modern English texts. The test introduced here is divided into five 20-item levels, each assessing a 560-word frequency band of theNGSL. Using a multiple choice format, the NGSLT is intended to assist teachers and learners in identifying gaps in knowledge of these highfrequency words. Data from 238 Japanese university students indicate the NGSLT is reliable (α= .93) and that it measures a single construct. Acomparison of NGSLT and Vocabulary Size Test (Nation & Beglar, 2007) scores for a small group of learners shows that the NGSLT providesmore detailed diagnostic information for high frequency words and may therefore be of greater pedagogic use for low and intermediatelevel learners. Ongoing developments include parallel versions of the NGSLT as well as a separate instrument to assess knowledge of the New Academic Word List. Both the NGSLT and New Academic Word List Test are freely downloadable from the NGSL homepage (www.newgeneralservicelist.org).
Study on Exogenous Application of Organics for Alleviating Salt Stress in Sorghum Crop
Authors: Mrudhula K. Anny , Rani Y. Sudha , Subbaiah P. Venkata , Sambaiah A.
Published: September 2021

Abiotic stresses soil salinity is one of the major restricting the use of land for agriculture because it limits the crop growth and development. In these stressful conditions, improving productivity is important challenge because salinity has different effects on crop growth and developmental stages in different crops. Exogenous application of proline, humic acid and ascorbic acid has improved salt stress tolerance in various plant species. An experiment was conducted in farmer’s field at Raparla village, Battiprolu mandal during spring season, 2018 and 2019 to evaluate the effect of exogenous application of organics for alleviating salt stress on sorghum crop. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with five treatments which replicated four times. Five treatments in this study were applied as follows: (T1) control i.e farmer’s practice; (T2) proline application at 0.6 g/L; (T3) ascorbic acid application at 0.2 g/L; (T4) humic acid application at 2 g/L; (T5) Combination of T1, T2, T3 and T4. The Results showed that all treatments (T2, T3 T4 and T5) effected on the yield characteristic and yield (kg/ha). The highest yield attributes and yield of sorghum crop (3460 and 3240 kg/ha) was significantly recorded by T5 (the combined application of proline + ascorbic acid + humic acid) followed by T2 (alone proline application).
A Quantitative Index Based on Leaf Heteroblasty for Predicting Root Biomass in a Frequently Burned Savanna Species: Cussonia arborea Hochst. Ex A. Rich. (Araliaceae)
Authors: Kouamé Yao Anicet Gervais , Millan Mathieu , N’Dri Aya Brigitte , Bakayoko Adama , Gignoux Jacques , Charles-Dominique Tristan
Published: September 2021

Background: Biotic and abiotic disturbances such as frequent wildfires and herbivory contribute to maintain trees and grasses coexistence in savanna ecosystems. In comparison to stems and leaves, exposed to fire and herbivory, the roots, protected by being belowground, are less affected by these disturbances. Therefore, indirect estimation of belowground biomass (BGB) of savanna trees from simple allometric relations based on stem measurements can lead to major biases.

Aims: In this study we explored how the Leaf ontogenetic change index (LOCI), a quantitative index based on leaf heteroblastic development, can provide an accurate estimate of BGB in Cussonia arborea, a widespread species in West African humid savannas.

Methodology: We examined leaf morphometrics on post-fire resprouts of 40 individuals to assess whether LOCI can inform on plant age. We then analyzed by log-level regressions the variation of LOCI in relation to plant stem volume. Subsequently, we studied the variation of BGB according to stem volume, and as a function of both stem volume and LOCI, which allowed us to evaluate the contribution of LOCI to BGB estimation. BGB was obtained destructively by digging up roots and weighing total dry mass of 25 individuals including small and large trees. Statistical analyses were done with the R software.

Place and Duration of Study: Study was performed in the Lamto Scientific Reserve, Côte d’Ivoire, between May 2020 and June 2021.

Results: Using the stem volume as single explanatory variable of BGB, the regression model provided an adjusted R2 of 0.71. Association of the stem volume with LOCI increased the adjusted R2 from 0.71 to 0.90.

Conclusion: Combining LOCI with a measure of stem size provides better estimate of BGB in C. arborea compared to estimate based on stem size only. Since a large proportion of woody species in frequently disturbed environments exhibit an overall strategies promoting persistence, future works should evaluate how these strategies are modulated during ontogeny and can explain biomass variation over time.
Development and Evaluation of Polyherbal Based Novel Antiaging Synergistic Formulation
Authors: Somavanshi Deepak B. , Kamble Priyadarshani R. , Jadhav Khanderao R.
Published: September 2021

Aim: The present work was aimed to develop and evaluate polyherbal-based novel antiaging formulation.

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of pharmacy, B N University Udaipur, Department of Pharmacognosy, Divine College of pharmacy Satana between Feb 2019 to Apr 2021.

Methods: The selected plant extract Moringa oleifera hydroalcoholic extract (2%), Juglans regia aqueous extract (1%), Vitis vinifera ethanolic extract (1.5%), Camellia sinensis cold water extract (1.8%), Punica granatum aqueous extract (2%) were optimized in o/w type herbal cream by incorporation of different concentration of stearic acid and Tween 60. The total 9 formulations were evaluated on the basis of preliminary, phytochemical screening, and accelerated stability study and confirm the C7 polyherbal formulation (PHF) were more stable, safe, and showed pseudo plastic flow.

Results: The In-vitro free radical scavenging assay (DPPH Assay - IC50 56 ± 0.04 µg/ml and H2O2 scavenging assay - IC50 = 67±0.68 µg/ml) compared with standard Ascorbic acid and In-vitro anti-collagenase and anti-elastase activity validate PHF as antioxidant and antiaging activity. The in vitro Anti-collagenase activity showed 89.5% inhibition at 100 μg/mL concentration of C7 formulation (IC50 = 54.62 μg/mL) and the standard Gallic acid showed 74.6% inhibition at 100 μg/mL (IC50 = 67.83 μg/mL). The in vitro Anti-elastase activity showed 67.5% inhibition at 250 μg/mL of C7 formulation (IC50 = 193.65 μg/mL) and copper sulphate solution used as standard showed 70.6% inhibition (IC50 = 772.42 μg/mL). The percent inhibition activity was observed that the C7 formulation is potential antiaging activity as compared to positive control.

Conclusion: These studies conclude that the composition of PHF with a cream base increases the production of collagen and elastin which is responsible for the noteworthy synergistic antiaging activity.
The Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome of Patients on Treatment with Haloperidol and Risperidone or Olanzapine
Authors: Suresh Velumani , Lakhani J. D. , Shah Rakesh , Kataria Lakhan , Balaraman Ramachandran
Published: September 2021

Background: The background of the work stems from the observation due to the prevalence of antipsychotic drugs in causing metabolic disorder. The metabolic disorder is one of the major concern of antipsychotic drugs for schizophrenic patients. The present study is mainly aimed to establish the role of haloperidol and risperidone or olanzapine in causing metabolic syndrome of schizophrenic patients.

Methods: Sixty-four schizophrenic patients were divided into two groups. First and second group received haloperidol and risperidone or olanzapine respectively for three months. Body mass index, random blood sugar and lipid profile were investigated before and after the treatment.

Results: Both groups of schizophrenic patients have shown a significant increase in the BMI, random blood sugar and lipid profile indicating a propensity to cause metabolic disorder.

Conclusion: From the present study it is concluded that there is a high prevalence of metabolic disorder those who received antipsychotic drugs like haloperidol and risperidone or olanzapine.
Isolation, Characterization and Phytochemical Evaluation of Active Compound Coumarin from Oldenlandia corymbosa (Linn)
Authors: Jose Sonja , Jayakar B.
Published: September 2021

Medicinal plants have served through ages, as a constant source of medicaments for the exposure of a variety of diseases. Plants are known to provide cures for various human illnesses and are a rich source of phyto constituents having diversified pharmacological properties. Oldenlandia corymbosa (L.) (syn. Hedyotis corymbosa Lam., Thai name Ya-Lin-Ngu), a member of the family Rubiaceae, is widely distributed in tropical regions of Asia. The decoction of whole plants is used in traditional medicine for antipyretic purposes to decrease body temperature. Pharmacologically, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties of plant extracts have been reported. This plant is well known to contain mainly iridoid glucosides. The whole plant contains reducing sugars, amino acids, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides and alkaloids. The present aim of the study is to extraction and isolation of bioactive compound from Oldenlandia corymbosa (L.). The isolation and characterization analysis included, Thin Layer Chromatography, High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography, GC-MS and Spectroscopy studies (IR, NMR, and MASS). The presences of coumarin in the methanolic fraction revealed that the isolated constituent is most active compound. Isolation of bioactive compound coumarin may help in identification of various pharmacological activities and carrying out further research in Oldenlandia corymbosa  (L.).
Membrane structure‐responsive lipid scramblase activity of the TMEM63/OSCA family
Authors: Miyata Yugo , Nishimura Megumi , Nagata Aya , Jing Xu , Sultan Cheryl S. , Kuribayashi Risa , Takahashi Katsuya , Lee Yongchan , Nishizawa Tomohiro , Segawa Katsumori
Published: December 2024

Phospholipids are asymmetrically distributed in the plasma membrane (PM), and scramblases disrupt this asymmetry by shuffling phospholipids. We recently identified mouse Tmem63b as a membrane structure‐responsive scramblase. Tmem63b belongs to the TMEM63/OSCA family of ion channels; however, the conservation of the scramblase activity within this family remains unclear. We expressed human TMEM63 paralogs, TMEM63B orthologs, and plant OSCA1.1 in Tmem63b‐deficient mouse pro‐B cells and found that vertebrate TMEM63B orthologs exhibit scramblase activity at the PM. Previously, ten pathogenic human TMEM63B variants were identified, some of which exhibited constitutive scramblase activity. Upon expressing all variants, we found that nine variants displayed constitutive scramblase activity. These results suggest that membrane structure‐responsive scramblase activity at the PM is conserved among vertebrate TMEM63B orthologs.
Holistic Analysis of Material Properties in Phylogenetically Diverse Spider Silks and Their Influence on Cell Adhesion
Authors: Stadlmayr Sarah , Mautner Andreas , Bacher Markus , Peter Karolina , Mentler Axel , Schulz Stefan , Lichtenegger Helga , Brecker Lothar , Bismarck Alexander , Naghilou Aida , Radtke Christine
Published: December 2024

Reconstruction of long‐segment peripheral nerve gaps remains a clinical challenge, as neither autografts nor FDA‐approved nerve conduits achieve satisfactory functional recovery. Conduits filled with native Trichonephila dragline silk show promise for nerve defects exceeding the critical length, but translating natural silk to clinical use has limitations, necessitating research into recombinant silk replica. The search for optimal silk templates is ongoing, with numerous spider species still unexplored. This study aims to compare the ability of four native silk fibers from phylogenetically diverse spider families to support nerve regeneration. The influence of fiber morphology, primary and secondary protein structures, surface charge, chemical composition, and mechanical properties on the initial cell attachment is studied. Results demonstrate that silk collected from Peucetia lucasi do not adequately support Schwann cell adhesion, which is caused by the lack of a lipid layer and the limited fiber wettability. This reduced wettability, governed by the ratio of hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids of silk, is particularly relevant when considering the deployment of uncoated artificial silk fibers for neural tissue engineering. This knowledge is crucial for paving the way toward full functional recovery after peripheral nerve injury via implanting advanced synthetic nerve guidance conduits enhanced with luminal silk alternatives.
Carboxymethyl Chitosan‐Based Antioxidant Hydrogel Accelerates Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Zhang Jiaying , Zhao Sifang , Zhou Yifan , Liang Hongze , Zhao Lingling , Tan Hui
Published: December 2024

Diabetic wound healing is hampered due to oxidative stress, exacerbated inflammation, and impaired angiogenesis in the wounds. A pH‐sensitive antioxidant hydrogel based on carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), oligoprocyanidins (OPC), and oxide dextran (Oxd) is prepared to accelerate diabetic wound healing. The hydrogel network is formed via imine and hydrogen bonding interactions in the presence of hydroxyl, amino, and aldehyde groups, and deferoxamine (DFO) is incorporated into the hydrogel. The hydrogel shows pH‐triggered drug release, a good antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory properties, and can promote tube formation and cell migration in vitro. Moreover, the hydrogel can accelerate wound healing in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic mice by regulating the inflammation environment with up‐regulation of anti‐inflammatory factors (IL‐4 and IL‐10) and down‐regulation of pro‐inflammatory factors (TNF‐α and IL‐6), and promoting angiogenesis with up‐regulation of HIF‐1α, VEGF, and CD31. Thus, the pH‐sensitive antioxidant hydrogel provides a promising therapeutic strategy for diabetic wound healing.
Flexible Photonic Materials and Devices: Synthetic Strategies, Sensing Properties, and Wearable Applications
Authors: Zhang Chunhuan , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: December 2024

Wearable technology is becoming increasingly visible in the daily life for improving human health and performance. Flexible photonics is rapidly emerging as a promising platform for advancing the wearable technology. The development and innovative use of flexible photonic materials play crucial roles in designing flexible sensor devices for wearable applications. Here it is aimed to summarize the key advancements in developing flexible photonic materials and devices for wearable sensing applications. In turn the synthetic strategies, sensing properties, and wearable applications of flexible photonic materials and devices will be comprehensively discussed. Finally, it is attempted to give an outlook on the future challenges and research trends in this fascinating field.
Lattice‐Matched Ru/W2C Heterointerfaces with Reversible Hydrogen Spillover for Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Jiang Jian‐Zhong , Liu Shangguo , Li Zijian , Kim Min Gyu , Jang Haeseong , Liu Xien , Hou Liqiang
Published: December 2024

The effect of lattice‐matched heterointerfaces on the hydrogen reverse spillover process for accelerating alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) kinetics has not yet been reported. Herein, a lattice‐matched Ru/W2C heterostructure is successfully constructed for effective hydrogen production. Experimental and theoretical results reveal that the Ru nanocluster can effectively stabilize W2C and thus promote the formation of phase‐pure W2C in the Ru/W2C heterostructure. In addition, it is revealed that H2O dissociation proceeded on W2C, and the formed H intermediates are subsequently migrated to adjacent interfacial Ru sites for H─H coupling and H2 release. This is enabled via a reversible hydrogen spillover mechanism promoted by the lattice‐matched heterointerfaces that can weaken interfacial proton adsorption. As expected, the Ru/W2C heterogeneous electrocatalyst exhibited a superior HER performance with a low overpotential of 17 mV at 10 mA cm−2, a high mass current density (6.44 A mgRu−1), and a low turnover frequency (TOF) value (2.8 s−1) at the overpotential of 100 mV, far overwhelming the benchmark Ru/C and Pt/C. The study may offer a new perspective for the design of highly active electrocatalysts for alkaline HER.
Sustainable Production of Graphene from Solar‐Driven Expanded Graphite
Authors: Shajahan Shanavas , Elkaffas Rami , Velusamy Dhinesh Babu , Anjum Dalaver H. , Samad Yarjan Abdul
Published: December 2024

Scalable synthesis of graphene sheets is challenging due to the complex production processes. Few‐layered graphene sheets with high lateral sizes (4–5 μm) through a state‐of‐the‐art solar irradiation‐driven liquid‐phase exfoliation technique are achieved. The sunlight is directly used on the intercalated graphite flakes for just 0.5 s to achieve the graphite expansion. Using focused sunlight makes our solar expansion technique sustainable with zero energy demand (0 J). The total energy spent to produce 1 kg of graphene through this technique is only around 2.135 MJ. The produced graphene sheets show significant electrical conductivity (1586 S cm−1) and high in‐plane thermal conductivity (196.3 W mK−1). The electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties of solar graphene are evaluated in the X‐band region, and it shows a very high shielding effectiveness of about 71.5 dB at a thickness of ≈80 μm with an absolute EMI shielding effectiveness of about 11983.7 dB cm2 g−1. Overall, this work provides a viable approach for the efficient, scalable production of graphene with reduced energy consumption and cost, contributing to the sustainable production of graphene.
Recent Advances in Iron‐Containing Perovskites for Supercapacitors
Authors: Avcıoğlu Celal , Avcıoğlu Suna
Published: December 2024

The growing energy demands in transportation and portable electronics necessitate advancements in energy storage technologies. Supercapacitors, with their exceptional power density, rapid charge–discharge capabilities, and long cycle life, provide a compelling solution for energy storage applications. However, their inherent low energy density remains a persistent challenge. To overcome this limitation, perovskite oxides, particularly those containing iron, have emerged as promising electrode materials. These materials leverage their unique structure, compositional flexibility, rich redox chemistry, and pseudocapacitive attributes. This concise overview aims to provide insights into the development of iron‐containing perovskite oxides and their design principles. The discussion covers fundamental aspects of supercapacitors, iron‐containing perovskite structures, synthetic methodologies, defect engineering, and the construction of composites. The overview concludes by providing a perspective, particularly regarding the challenges in designing efficient and stable supercapacitors based on iron‐containing perovskite oxides.
Combined effect of frailty and sarcopenia on postoperative complications in older adults undergoing curative surgery for hepato‐biliary‐pancreatic cancer
Authors: Harimoto Norifumi , Sugimachi Keishi , Nishijima Tomohiro F. , Takahiro Tomino , Shimagaki Tomonari , Mano Yohei , Onishi Emi , Sugiyama Masahiko , Kimura Yasue , Morita Masaru
Published: December 2024

Aim

Older adults with cancer are often at increased risk for postoperative complications following major surgeries. This study aimed to evaluate the combined role of frailty and sarcopenia in predicting postoperative complications in older adults with hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancer undergoing surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study included 107 Japanese patients who underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) at the geriatric oncology service before cancer treatment decisions and subsequent curative surgery for hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancer. Frailty status was measured using the validated 10‐item frailty index based on a CGA (FI‐CGA‐10) and categorized as fit, prefrail, or frail. Sarcopenia was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis and grip strength. The primary outcome was postoperative complications, defined as Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ III, within 1 month of surgery.

Results

The median age of the 107 patients was 79 (range, 75–89) years. Patients were categorized as fit (n = 36, 33.7%), prefrail (n = 57, 53.2%), or frail (n = 14, 13.1%). Of these, 21 patients (20%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia; 16 patients (15%) experienced postoperative complications. Patients classified as prefrail or frail had a higher incidence of postoperative complications compared with those classified as fit (19.7% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.08). Patients with both prefrail or frail and sarcopenia had a significantly higher risk of postoperative complications. This association remained significant in the multivariable model (OR 4.74; 95% CI, 1.10–20.29; p = 0.04).

Conclusion

In this study, patients classified as prefrail/frail and sarcopenic were at significantly higher risk for postoperative complications.
Effect on short‐term outcomes of the COVID‐19 pandemic following laparoscopic distal gastrectomy and low anterior resection for gastric and rectal cancer: A retrospective study using the Japanese National Clinical Database, 2018–2022
Authors: Inomata Masafumi , Endo Hideki , Akagi Tomonori , Shiroshita Hidefumi , Yamaguchi Shigeki , Eguchi Susumu , Wada Norihito , Kurokawa Yukinori , Seki Yosuke , Sakai Yoshiharu , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Kitagawa Yuko , Taketomi Akinobu , Mori Masaki
Published: December 2024

Aims

We previously reported no change in surgical outcomes for laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) and laparoscopic low anterior resection (LLAR) early in the COVID‐19 pandemic (2020), although the number of elective surgeries decreased. In 2021, COVID‐19 spread further, with vaccination and other medical measures based on several medical societies' guidelines being initiated. Using the Japanese National Clinical Database (NCD), we added 2022 data to the 2018–2021 data to analyze the impacts of expansion of the COVID‐19 infection and its spread on laparoscopic surgery (including robot‐assisted surgery).

Methods

Data on patients who underwent LDG and LLAR for cancer were extracted from the NCD between 2018 and 2022. The numbers of LDG and LLAR were obtained, and morbidity and mortality rates were evaluated using a standardized morbidity/mortality ratio (SMR), i.e. the ratio of the observed number of incidences to expected number of incidences calculated by the risk calculator previously developed by the NCD.

Results

The numbers of LDG and LLAR cases declined in 2020, the first pandemic year, and continued to decline in 2022 to the same level as 2021, but with no further decline and no recovery trend in the number of cases. Numbers of robot‐assisted LDG and LLAR cases increased but at a rate lower than the prepandemic increase. Mortality and anastomotic leakage, two very important complications assessed in SMR, did not worsen during the pandemic compared to prepandemic levels.

Conclusion

In Japan, laparoscopic surgery was safe and unaffected by the COVID‐19 pandemic, even in 2022, when the epidemic spread.
Bipolar membrane electrodialysis with isolation chamber enables high‐purity LiOH production with ordinary membranes
Authors: He Duyi , Fu Weicheng , Wang Zihao , Yan Junying , Wang Huangying , Li Ruirui , Wang Baoying , Chen Xiaochun , Wang Yaoming , Xu Tongwen
Published: December 2024

Currently, bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) is recognized as an eco‐friendly technique to recycle lithium from waste lithium‐ion batteries. However, the application of ordinary bipolar membranes has the disadvantage of unsatisfactory product purity due to undesired ion leakage. Herein, we proposed isolation chamber bipolar membrane electrodialysis (ICBMED) to inhibit coion migration, thereby increasing the purity of the regenerated acid and alkali. The experimental results indicate that 97.7%–99.3% of the LiOH generated by the ICBMED using domestic membranes was generated, which is much greater than the 85.7%–94.4% obtained without an isolation chamber. The total cost of the ICBMED for LiOH production with inexpensive domestic membranes was 1.65$/kg‐LiOH (US) at 400 A/m2, which is lower than the cost of 1.91$/kg‐LiOH (US) for flagship membranes with identical product quality. BMED with an isolation chamber provides a viable solution for acid–base production by balancing product quality and cost.
Channel–molecule attraction mediated molecule transport in confined nanochannels of COF membranes for nanofiltration
Authors: Li Ruilong , Yang Yongjian , Chen Jingjing , Chen Chongchong , Li Wenpeng , Wu Xiaoli , Wang Jingtao
Published: December 2024

Porous membranes, a type of material widely used in nanofiltration, are confronted with the limitation that the influence of channel–molecule interactions on transport behaviors has yet been investigated in detail. Herein, covalent organic framework membranes with adjustable pore sizes (⁓ 2.5 nm and ⁓ 1.2 nm) and chemical groups (−F, −OH, and −CO−) were prepared by interfacial polymerization. We demonstrate that strong channel–molecule attraction induces the formation of stable solvent layers along nanochannel walls, which protect central molecules from the attraction of chemical groups. Significantly, stable solvent layers permit fast transport of ethanol (245.6 L m−2 h−1 bar−1) with reactive black (RB) rejection of 96%. Likely, for membranes with weak channel–molecule attraction, no solvent layers are formed and molecules also transport smoothly. Interestingly, membranes that exhibit moderate channel–molecule attraction exert metastable solvent layers, thus displaying high transport resistance. This hindrance effect on molecule transport becomes more pronounced in smaller nanochannels.
Outcomes of Patients With Treated Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A High‐Risk Subtype That Warrants an Independent Prognostic Designation
Authors: Senapati Jayastu , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Haddad Fadi G. , Short Nicholas J. , Borthakur Gautam , Kanagal‐Shamanna Rashmi , Tang Guilin , Jabbour Elias , DiNardo Courtney D. , Daver Naval , Montalban‐Bravo Guillermo , Shah Vishrut , Alousi Amin , Shpall Elizabeth , Popat Uday , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Ravandi Farhad , Kadia Tapan M.
Published: December 2024

Patients who develop acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after having received treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or related conditions have particularly poor outcomes. This study analyzed adult patients with newly diagnosed AML who previously had MDS, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), or MDS/myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) overlap syndrome, and who had received hypomethylating agents, chemotherapy, and/or allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for these antecedent disorders. From January 2012 to August 2023, we included 673 patients with a median age of 70 years (range, 19–94); 536 (80%) had transformed from MDS, and the remainder from CMML or MDS‐MPN. Additionally, 149 patients (22%) had prior therapy for nonmyeloid malignancies. Among 497 evaluable patients, 289 (58%) had adverse‐risk (AR) cytogenetics, 34% had TP53 mutation/s, and 71% were classified as AR by the ELN 2017 criteria. Most patients (67%) received low‐intensity therapy (LIT) for AML, and 27% were treated with venetoclax. The overall response rate was 37%, and venetoclax improved the odds of response (OR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.6–3.7) in LIT–treated patients. At a median follow‐up of 43 months, the median relapse‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were 4.6 and 4.8 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that prior therapy for nonmyeloid disorders (HR = 1.30), ≥ 2 lines of therapy for antecedent myeloid disorders (HR = 1.23), and ELN AR risk (HR = 1.47) increased the hazards of death, while HSCT (HR = 0.50) was beneficial and validated on gradient‐boosted regression. TS‐AML is associated with poor outcomes irrespective of AML genomics and treatment, highlighting the need for its inclusion as an independent AR category for accurate prognostication and clinical trial reporting.
Selenium‐Deficient FeSe2/Fe3O4 Electrocatalyst for Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: Du Yue , Lu Haijiao , Wu Jinting , Zou Yalong , Huang Zhen‐Feng , Zou Ji‐Jun , Mu Tiansheng , Gao Jian , Zhu Xiao‐Dong , Zhang Yong‐Chao
Published: December 2024

Electrocatalytic reduction of NO3− is a green and sustainable method that not only helps to treat industrial pollutants in wastewater, but also produces valuable chemicals. However, the slow dynamics of the proton‐coupled electron transfer process results in a high barrier and low conversion efficiency. In this work, the Se‐deficient FeSe2/Fe3O4 heterojunction was synthesized, which showed excellent electrochemical performance in 0.1 M nitrate reduction reaction, superior to most currently reported catalysts. The high activity of Se‐deficient FeSe2/Fe3O4 is due to the synergistic effect between FeSe2 and Fe3O4 to achieve relay catalytic NO3− reduction. Among them, the Se‐deficient FeSe2 contributes to NO3− deoxygenation and subsequent hydrogenation, and Fe3O4 promotes H2O decomposition to provide H proton, jointly promote NO3RR. Finally, the online differential electrochemical mass spectra (DEMS), in situ Raman and DFT calculation confirmed the optimal pathway for NO3RR to NH3 on Se‐deficient FeSe2/Fe3O4(100). This strategy of relay catalysis provides a potential way to treat wastewater with high concentration nitrate.
M2‐polarized tumor‐associated macrophage‐secreted exosomal lncRNA NEAT1 upregulates galectin‐3 by recruiting KLF5 and promotes HCC immune escape
Authors: Yuan Wei , Sun Qigang , Zhu Xiaodan , Li Bo , Zou Yongping , Liu Zhehao
Published: December 2024

HCC cell immune escape is a critical element in the evolution of HCC malignancy. Herein, the regulatory mechanism of lncRNA NEAT1 in regulating HCC immune escape was investigated. Exosomes were isolated from M2 TAMs using ExoQuick‐TC. Then, HCC cells were incubated with M2 TAMs‐derived exosomes (M2‐exos). The activation of perforin+CD8+ T cells was measured using flow cytometry. The secretion of IFN‐γ was assessed using ELISA. Cell viability and migration were detected using CCK8 and Transwell assays, respectively. RIP and RNA pull‐down assays were used to investigate the link between NEAT1 and KLF5. ChIP and dual‐luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the interaction between KLF5 and the LGALS3 promoter. Our results showed that NEAT1, KLF5 and galectin‐3 were overexpressed in HCC tissues. M2‐exos treatment promoted HCC proliferation, migration, and immune escape. It was found that NEAT1 was enriched in M2‐TAMs and M2‐exos. M2‐exos facilitated HCC immune escape, whereas NEAT1 silencing reversed this effect. NEAT1 upregulated galectin‐3 in HCC cells by recruiting KLF5. Mechanically, M2‐TAM‐derived exosomal NEAT1 induced HCC immune escape by upregulating KLF5/galectin‐3 axis. M2‐TAM‐derived exosomal NEAT1 upregulated galectin‐3 in HCC cells by recruiting KLF5 to promote perforin+CD8+ T cell depletion and further accelerate HCC immune escape.
Transforming higher education: Insights from the Cambridge Handbook of Undergraduate Research By Harald A.Mieg, Elizabeth L.Ambos, AngelaBrew, JudithLehmann, and Dominique M.Galli, Cambridge University Press. 2022. ISBN 978‐1‐108‐83592‐3 Hardback.
Authors: Messi Nicole
Published: December 2024

The Cambridge Handbook of Undergraduate Research, edited by Harald A. Mieg, Elizabeth L. Ambos, Angela Brew, Judith Lehmann, and Dominique M. Galli (2022), is a pioneering work offering a comprehensive global perspective on undergraduate research (UR). This handbook systematically addresses theoretical foundations, practical implementation strategies, disciplinary approaches and international perspectives on UR. It aims to enhance the understanding and practice of UR by integrating research experiences into undergraduate education, thereby bridging the gap between teaching and research. The book underscores UR's role in including underrepresented students, highlighting its potential to foster equity and diversity in academia. It emphasizes the active engagement of students in research, promoting self‐regulated learning and faculty–student partnerships. Despite its broad scope, the handbook identifies areas needing further attention, such as the limited focus on diverse categories of underrepresented students and ensuring active student participation in introductory research courses. Overall, ‘The Cambridge Handbook of Undergraduate Research’ serves as an essential resource for educators, administrators and policymakers, providing insights to advance UR practices and enhance educational outcomes globally. The reflections and insights presented stimulate further research and innovation, aiming to create inclusive, engaging and effective UR programs in higher education institutions worldwide.
Wideband Metasurface Antenna for In‐Band Full‐Duplex Applications
Authors: Li Sha , Yang Kang Yu , Wu Duo‐Long
Published: December 2024

This article proposes a novel metasurface patch antenna with characteristics of metasurface and broadband for in‐band full‐duplex applications, which is configured with a parasitic metasurface, a square patch, two separated feeding networks for transmitting and receiving ports (Tx and Rx), and a square ground. Two feeding networks consist of an antisymmetric L‐shaped probe feeding structure for Rx and a double F‐shaped feeding structure with a 3 dB/180° hybrid coupler for the Tx port to achieve ±45° polarization and significantly enhanced isolation between the ports. Most importantly, the proposed parasitic metasurface realizes good impedance matching and improves realized gain. Therefore, the proposed antenna attains a −10 dB of overlapped bandwidth of 52.6% through 1.7 to 2.7 GHz with a high isolation of over 41.5 dB. Additionally, the measured gains are 8.9 ± 1.1 dBi for the Rx port and 7.4 ± 0.9 dBi for the Tx port, respectively. These characteristic data all support that the proposed antenna will play an essential role in IBFD applications.
A Fluted E‐Shaped Antipodal Vivaldi Antenna With Rectangular Strips for Surface Scanning Application
Authors: De Saptaparna , Das Priyanka , Kundu Surajit
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a fluted E‐shaped antipodal Vivaldi antenna (AVA) loaded with rectangular‐shaped strips is proposed for ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) application. The corrugation method is implemented by introducing multiple slots in the uppermost and lowermost arms of the antenna, followed by adding additional 10 strips to broaden and stabilize the impedance bandwidth. The electrical dimension of the antenna is 1.07λ × 1.8λ × 0.004λ. The proposed modified AVA (MAVA) exhibits a high fractional bandwidth of 144.8% over an ultrawideband of 1.6–10 GHz. The peak gain achieved by the antenna is 8.97 dBi. The proposed antenna offers a stable unidirectional radiation pattern along E‐ and H‐plane throughout the spectrum with maximum radiation efficiency of 96%. A prototype of the proposed antenna has been fabricated and tested where the measured results bear close resemblance with the simulated results. The pertinence of proposed antenna for GPR subsurface scanning was examined through a field test where scanned result signifies its aptness for such submissions.