bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brown patch on tall fescue as influenced by nitrogen and fungicide applications
Authors: Fry Jack D. , Chhetri Manoj , Pease Ben
Published: September 2024

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) is a cool‐season turfgrass species commonly used in the transition zone. Brown patch (Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn) can have a significant impact on quality of tall fescue between late spring and late summer and is impacted by management strategies including fertilization and fungicide use. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of four nitrogen (N) sources and two application rates (0, 74 kg ha−1 [low], or 220 kg ha−1 [high] annually) along with fungicide application (azoxystrobin applied or not applied) on tall fescue brown patch infection. Highest quality occurred when tall fescue received the highest level of N and fungicide treatment. If high levels of N were applied and no fungicide was used, quality was reduced significantly when brown patch was observed in tall fescue. For example, on July 21, 2023, when most intense brown patch occurred, tall fescue had variable brown patch levels: low N levels 2%–23% and high N levels 48%–66%. Across three rating dates in summer 2023, tall fescue receiving the low N level exhibited statistically similar brown patch among all N sources. Conversely, brown patch treated with high levels of N had lower brown patch in urea compared to humic‐coated urea and slow‐release N on at least one of the three dates. Applying N at a level of 220 kg ha−1 annually or higher can result in significant brown patch in some summers; lower N levels will reduce brown patch. Desiring high tall fescue quality requires the high N level and inclusion of preventive fungicide applications.
Universal social protection and gender disparities in food security: Insights from Nepal
Authors: Paudel Jayash
Published: September 2024

This article exploits a sharp age cutoff for eligibility of a nationwide senior citizen allowance program in Nepal to show that a universal social protection increased the likelihood of receiving financial assistance among the elderly, but did not improve food consumption. Eligible females are 8.8 percentage points more likely to eat fewer meals induced by inadequate resources and 5.3 percentage points more likely to sleep hungry in response to inadequate food. This adverse effect is driven by multi‐generational households with young children, implying that the program exacerbated gender disparities in food security through changes in household size and childcare duties.
Multidepth quantitative analysis of liver cell viscoelastic properties: Fusion of nanoindentation and finite element modeling techniques
Authors: Zeng Yi , Liu Xianping , Wang Zuobin , Gao Wei , Zhang Shengli , Wang Ying , Liu Yunqing , Yu Haiyue
Published: September 2024

Liver cells are the basic functional unit of the liver. However, repeated or sustained injury leads to structural disorders of liver lobules, proliferation of fibrous tissue and changes in structure, thus increasing scar tissue. Cellular fibrosis affects tissue stiffness, shear force, and other cellular mechanical forces. Mechanical force characteristics can serve as important indicators of cell damage and cirrhosis. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been widely used to study cell surface mechanics. However, characterization of the deep mechanical properties inside liver cells remains an underdeveloped field. In this work, cell nanoindentation was combined with finite element analysis to simulate and analyze the mechanical responses of liver cells at different depths in vitro and their internal responses and stress diffusion distributions after being subjected to normal stress. The sensitivities of the visco‐hyperelastic parameters of the finite element model to the effects of the peak force and equilibrium force were compared. The force curves of alcohol‐damaged liver cells at different depths were measured and compared with those of undamaged liver cells. The inverse analysis method was used to simulate the finite element model in vitro. Changes in the parameters of the cell model after injury were explored and analyzed, and their potential for characterizing hepatocellular injury and related treatments was evaluated.

Research Highlights

This study aims to establish an in vitro hyperelastic model of liver cells and analyze the mechanical changes of cells in vitro.

An analysis method combining finite element analysis model and nanoindentation was used to obtain the key parameters of the model.

The multi‐depth mechanical differences and internal structural changes of injured liver cells were analyzed.
Lipid droplets and small extracellular vesicles: More than two independent entities
Authors: Genard Géraldine C. , Tirinato Luca , Pagliari Francesca , Da Silva Jessica , Giammona Alessandro , Alquraish Fatema , Reyes Maria Parra , Bordas Marie , Marafioti Maria Grazia , Franco Simone Di , Janssen Jeannette , Garcia‐Calderón Daniel , Hanley Rachel , Nistico Clelia , Fukasawa Yoshinori , Müller Torsten , Krijgsveld Jeroen , Todaro Matilde , Costanzo Francesco Saverio , Stassi Giorgio , Nessling Michelle , Richter Karsten , Maass Kendra K. , Liberale Carlo , Seco Joao
Published: September 2024

Despite increasing knowledge about small extracellular vesicle (sEV) composition and functions in cell–cell communication, the mechanism behind their biogenesis remains unclear. Here, we reveal for the first time that sEV biogenesis and release into the microenvironment are tightly connected with another important organelle, Lipid Droplets (LDs). The correlation was observed in several human cancer cell lines as well as patient‐derived colorectal cancer stem cells (CR‐CSCs). Our results demonstrated that external stimuli such as radiation, pH, hypoxia or lipid‐interfering drugs, known to affect the number of LDs/cell, similarly influenced sEV secretion. Importantly, through multiple omics data, at both mRNA and protein levels, we revealed RAB5C as a potential important molecular player behind this organelle connection. Altogether, the potential to fine‐tune sEV biogenesis by targeting LDs could significantly impact the amount, cargos and properties of these sEVs, opening new clinical perspectives.
Corrigendum: The diameter of AT‐free graphs
Authors: Ducoffe Guillaume
Published: September 2024

This corrigendum corrects an error found in the proof of correctness of the algorithm by [Ducoffe, JGT, 2022, 99(4), pp. 594–614], Theorem 6. An erroneous result from Deogun and Kratsch was used in the original proof. There are no changes in the algorithm itself.
Noninvasive Multitechnique Analysis of Baroque Amber Artworks From Gdansk: The Benefits of Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Rygula Anna , Klisińska‐Kopacz Anna , Matosz Marta , Wilkosz Tomasz , Obarzanowski Michał , Krupska‐Wolas Paulina , Skóra Karolina , Kopyciak Aldona , Harasim‐Grym Joanna , del Hoyo‐Meléndez Julio M.
Published: September 2024

The multidisciplinary, noninvasive analysis of baroque amber artworks is part of a research project that deals with the most valuable objects from the Museum of Gdansk (Poland). The two most interesting objects will be presented here: a Baroque Gdansk wardrobe‐shaped amber cabinet (made by Johann Georg Zernebach, Gdansk, 1724) and a crucifix (Gdansk, 17th century). Macro‐ (UV, IR, and X‐radiography) and micro‐ (XRF and Raman spectroscopy) analytical methods were applied to reveal traces of old conservation treatments and uncover the techniques of the 17th and 18th century amber masters. UV photography shows the differences between the amber plates that are not so easily detected under visible light, while XRF spectrometry detects elements atypical for amber objects, suggesting previous conservation treatments. Confocal Raman measurements, especially Raman depth profiling, were performed for the amber artworks and allowed to detect areas of previous conservation treatments. Single‐point scans were collected from the surface (0 μm) to a depth of −200 μm, with a step of 50 μm. The results allowed us to identify three different types of zones: where the amber was preserved without any protective layer, places where the amber was covered with a thin layer of a protective substance, and places where amber elements were compensated for loss using a binding agent and filler. The presented project allowed the development of a comprehensive methodology for the analysis of amber objects, especially to optimize the capabilities of confocal Raman microscopy. The combination of macro‐ and microanalytical techniques made it possible to obtain a broad overview of such complex artworks while optimizing the time and effort spent on the investigations.
Micro‐Raman Spectroscopy for the Identification of Drawing Materials Used Throughout the 17th and 20th Centuries
Authors: Klisińska‐Kopacz Anna , Ryguła Anna , del Hoyo Meléndez Julio M.
Published: September 2024

The study explores drawing materials from the 17th century to the present using noninvasive techniques like Raman spectroscopy in selected cases supplemented by x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. This publication is an effort to expand knowledge across diverse periods and materials. A collection of six drawings spanning from 1700 to 1899 from the National Museum in Krakow and a 20th‐century birch bark artifact were analyzed. Noninvasive techniques facilitated the systematic analysis of drawing materials, providing insights into diverse substances over centuries. Identified materials include hematite, calcite, graphite, bister, sepia, iron gall ink, and crystal violet dye. Understanding the chemical composition aids conservation and is a reference for future art history and preservation studies.
Could Olympic Gels of Polystyrene be Produced by ARGET ATRP From Bifunctional Initiators?
Authors: Braidi Niccolò , Porcelli Nicola , Roncaglia Fabrizio , Mucci Adele , Tassinari Francesco
Published: September 2024

The kinetics of gelation in the Activators Regenerated by Electron Transfer Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ARGET ATRP) of styrene, using a bifunctional initiator and no crosslinking agents are investigated. By applying the method of moments, we develop a system of differential equations that accounts for the formation of polymer rings. The kinetic rate constants of this model are optimized on the experimentally determined kinetics, varying the reaction temperature and ethanol fraction. Subsequently, we explore how variations in the amounts of catalyst, initiator, and reducing agents affect the simulated equilibria of ARGET ATRP, the emergence of gelation, and the swelling properties of the resulting networks. These findings suggest that favoring ring formation enhances the gelation phenomenon, supporting the hypothesis that the networks formed under the reported reaction conditions are olympic gels.
Current status and challenges of shape memory scaffolds in biomedical applications
Authors: Wu Haoming , Yang Shuhao , Li Jiuhong , Ma Teng , Yang Keyi , Liao Tianzheng , Feng Wanyue , Zhou Bingnan , Yong Xin , Zhou Kai , Hu Xulin
Published: September 2024

The rapid evolution of clinical medicine, materials science, and regenerative medicine has rendered traditional implantable scaffolds inadequate for addressing the complex therapeutic demands of various diseases. Currently, implantable scaffolds in clinical practice are mainly made of metal, with the disadvantages of high stiffness, poor toughness, and low deformation. This paper offers a thorough review of shape memory scaffolds (SMSs), emphasizing their distinctive self‐recovery and adaptive functionalities that enhance compatibility with injured tissues, surpassing the capabilities of conventional metallic biomaterials. It delves into the limitations of current clinical scaffolds and the requisite performance metrics for effective implants and outlines the essential materials and fabrication methods for SMSs. Moreover, we enumerate the biomedical applications of SMMs with different response types, including thermology‐responsive, water‐responsive, and light‐responsive. The discussion extends to the burgeoning applications of SMSs in biomedical engineering, including their utility in bone tissue engineering, cardiovascular stenting, tubular structures, and cardiac patches, which underscore their potential in minimally invasive procedures and dynamic tissue interactions. This review concludes with an analysis of current challenges and prospects, providing valuable insights for developing and applying SMSs in the biomedical sector.
On explicit ninth‐order, two‐step methods addressing y″=f(x,y)
Authors: Jerbi Houssem , Aoun Sondess Ben , Alshammari Obaid , Simos Theodore E. , Tsitouras Ch. , Kchaou Mourad
Published: September 2024

We present a new family of ninth‐order hybrid explicit Numerov‐type methods, effectively utilizing only eight stages, for solving the special second‐order initial value problem. After applying a number of simplifying assumptions, we arrive to a reduced set of order conditions. Then, we derive an optimal method with constant coefficients that requires one less stage than standard methods found in the literature that use nine stages at this moment. Numerical tests are conducted using quadruple precision arithmetic on several well‐known problems and the superiority of the new method is clear. Finally, in Section 6, a Mathematica package is presented that implements the corresponding algorithm.
Interleukin‐6 induces cognitive impairment via toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)‐mediated neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in mice with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Shentu Yangping , Ma Shuqing , Ye Simin , Ying Yaozhe , Wang Luhui , Zhu Yun , Wang YunTing , Jiang Nan , Zhao Zongyuan , Zheng Chenfei , Chen Chaosheng , Bai Yongheng , Zhou Ying
Published: September 2024

Backgrounds

Past epidemiological and experimental studies in rodents have demonstrated that chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to cognitive impairment. However, the underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Herein, a mouse model of CKD was established using conventional 5/6 nephrectomy. We aimed to examine the relationship between CKD and cognitive impairment and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Cognitive behavior was assessed using the Morris water maze, novel object recognition test, and fear conditioning test. Further experiments were also conducted to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Results

Our clinical data revealed a decrease in cognitive function among patients with CKD, accompanied by elevated plasma levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. A positive correlation between cytokine concentrations and serum creatinine levels, as well as a significant positive correlation with cognitive dysfunction, were observed. Correlation analyzes demonstrated that hippocampal cytokine levels were positively correlated with serum creatinine levels and cognitive dysfunction in CKD model mice. Furthermore, 20 mg/mL interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) significantly decreased HT22 cell activity in vitro. Further, HT22 cells treated with IL‐6 showed increased expression levels of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), thereby inducing the nuclear factor kappa‐B p65 inflammatory pathway and mitochondria‐dependent apoptosis. The CKD mouse model showed increased expression of TLR4 and cytokines in the hippocampus. TLR4 knockdown antagonized the IL‐6‐mediated pro‐inflammatory and pro‐apoptotic effects in HT22 cells. TLR4 knockdown in the CKD model mice decreased hippocampal inflammation and increased the number of neuron dendrites, thus ameliorated cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

These results suggest that IL‐6 triggers TLR4 activation to induce neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in CKD, ultimately culminate in cognitive impairment.
Optimising structural health monitoring systems: A 2D numerical investigation on impedance matching for FML with integrated sensors
Authors: Rottmann Max , Mangalath Clara , Weber Wolfgang E.
Published: September 2024

Fibre metal laminates (FML) represent an innovative class of advanced composite materials that integrate the mechanical properties of both metals and fibre‐reinforced composites (FRP). Combining the strength and ductility of metals with the lightweight and high stiffness of FRP and FMLs have emerged as new material compositions for applications in chemical, nuclear, automobile, and aerospace engineering disciplines. Structural health monitoring (SHM) using guided ultrasonic waves (GUW) is the state‐of‐the‐art for non‐destructive testing of thin‐walled structures. When applied to FML, SHM plays a crucial role in monitoring the integrity over time and detecting potential damage such as delamination, fibre breakage, or other structural anomalies. In SHM with GUW, a wave‐field is emitted by actuators. This wave‐field can be affected by damage in the structure, thereby changing its propagation characteristics. Sensors monitor the interaction between damage and GUW, which can be utilized to locate and classify the damage and ascertain the overall health state of the structure. In this study, an advanced integration of measurement hardware, that is, sensors and actuators, within the laminate structure is investigated. Sensor integration into FML allows for improved and more sophisticated monitoring capabilities in comparison to measuring techniques like laser vibrometers, which are limited to measuring displacements on the surface of the structure. However, the integration of sensors and actuators yields the technical difficulty of distorting the wave‐fields and may result in an over‐ or underestimation of the damage. Similar to damage, the distortion of the wave‐field is caused by the changes in acoustic impedance resulting from different material properties. In a previous study, incorporating a functionally graded artificial interphase through acoustic impedance matching between the sensor and host material showed notable and significant outcomes. The current contribution extends the prior graded artificial interphase for an isotropic homogeneous material to an FML structure. This paper presents a comprehensive numerical simulation study on a two‐dimensional model of FML with integrated sensors. The interphases are designed based on impedance matching, which improves signal transmission and reduces disturbing reflections. The conducted investigations hold for several interphase configurations for a wide frequency range. The optimised integration of sensors demonstrates promising results for enhancing the reliability and accuracy of SHM systems. This research serves as a foundation for further experimental validation and the development of advanced sensor‐integrated FML structures with improved monitoring capabilities.
Multiscale analysis of interlocking effects for polymer additive manufacturing on aluminum foam
Authors: Timmann Frederic , Gronwald Paul‐Luis , Hürkamp André , Dröder Klaus
Published: September 2024

Hybrid structures are increasingly relevant for lightweight design and functional components. Various manufacturing techniques for creating hybrid components exist, often focusing on combining metal and polymer components. The present study examines a novel approach for manufacturing hybrid functional structures by directly printing thermoplastic onto aluminum profiles using closed‐cell aluminum foam, with the mechanical interlocking resulting in a structural bond. The filling of pores in the aluminum foam with the polymer affects the bond strength of this hybrid compound. Within a simulation‐based process design the additive manufacturing process parameters are investigated using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model with Fluid‐Structure Interaction for the pore‐filling process and a finite element (FE) model to evaluate the resulting bond strength. The material throughput, the nozzle distance, and the polymer temperature are the key process parameters taken into account. A parameterized, virtual foam model is used within this framework, where a linear movement of the extruder nozzle and the resulting polymer strand is investigated. This method includes the mesh conversion from the CFD results to the FE mesh for structural analysis by exporting the iso‐surface for the polymer geometry embedded in the pores of the aluminum foam structure. This approach made it possible to investigate the phenomena that occur in the process in more detail, particularly to quantify the influence of air inclusions. Thus, a decisive contribution to the hybridization of aluminum foams has been made, which opens up further potential for research and application in the long term.
Low velocity impact resistance of hybrid CFRP‐elastomer‐metal laminates: Influence of stacking sequence and impact conditions on damage mechanisms
Authors: Li Zhongyu , Jackstadt Alexander , Zhang Junyuan , Liebig Wilfried V. , Kärger Luise
Published: September 2024

Fiber‐metal laminates (FMLs) are generally regarded as excellent lightweight materials for advanced structure design. To enhance the mechanical properties, the common FMLs can be optimized using carbon fibers. However, the combination of carbon fibers with aluminum induces interfacial challenges. Preventing galvanic corrosion with elastomeric interlayers is an effective solution. The lay‐up configuration greatly effects the impact damage resistance of hybrid CFRP‐elastomer‐metal laminates (HyCEMLs). In this work, micro‐CT scans and optical micrographic inspections on HyCEMLs are conducted after impact tests to ascertain the microstructural origins behind the mechanical performance changes. In addition, finite element models of different HyCEML configurations are built to complement the limited experimental data. The damage mechanisms of HyCEML with different configurations under various impact conditions are further compared. The numerical results suggest that impact energy is a more informative measure in terms of damage mode and size than impact velocity and momentum. Results also indicate that when the thickness for each sub‐laminate of HyCEML is maintained the same, hybrid laminates with aluminum stacked outside is beneficial for delaying the occurrence of matrix cracking and delaminations, and enhances HyCEML's resistance to global deformation. These findings will contribute to engineering hybrid laminates with desired impact performance for lightweight load‐bearing structures.

Highlights

The hybrid laminate with elastomeric interlayers is a forward‐looking solution in impact applications.

Impact energy is a more informative measure in terms of assessing the damage mode and extent in HyCEMLs.

The influence of stacking sequence on damage mechanisms of HyCEMLs is evaluated.

Microstructural origins behind variations of hybrid laminates in the impact resistance are revealed.
Comparative metabolites profiling of different solvent extracts of Asparagus species cladodes using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics and molecular networking
Authors: Maphari Pfano W. , Simelane Mthokozisi B. C. , Madala Ntakadzeni E. , Mhlongo Msizi I.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Asparagus species are naturally distributed worldwide and are known for their pharmacological properties that offer cures for various ailments. However, the metabolic choreography of these Asparagus species is not well characterized, and the compounds contributing to their bioactivities remain unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to profile and compare the metabolomes of three Asparagus species cladodes using different solvent extractions.

Methods

An ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics and molecular networking approach was used to study the effects of different solvents (ethyl acetate, methanol, and chloroform) with varying polarity on metabolites extraction and identification of bioactive compounds from three Asparagus species cladodes (Asparagus falcatus, Asparagus plumosus, and Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyersii’).

Results

Multivariate statistical analyses (mainly principal component analysis) revealed a significant separation between the three solvents and the three species, indicating notable metabolic differences. A total of 118 metabolites were identified in the three species extracted with the different solvents, with methanolic and chloroform extracts containing more metabolites compared with ethyl acetate extracts. These metabolites were identified as belonging to the flavonoids, cinnamic acids, organooxygen compounds, steroids, fatty acids, benzenes, and glycerophospholipids compound classes. Furthermore, these compounds classes were differentially distributed among the three species, indicating chemical/chemotaxis differences between the compared species. Chloroform and methanol are recommended as the optimal solvents to obtain a high content of phytochemical compounds from Asparagus species cladodes.
The spatial separation of basic amino acids is similar in RHAMM and hyaluronan binding peptide P15‐1 despite different sequences and conformations
Authors: Erkanli Mehmet Emre , Kang Ted Keunsil , Kirsch Thorsten , Turley Eva A. , Kim Jin Ryoun , Cowman Mary K.
Published: September 2024

Peptides that increase pro‐reparative responses to injury and disease by modulating the functional organization of hyaluronan (HA) with its cell surface binding proteins (e.g., soluble receptor for hyaluronan‐mediated motility [RHAMM] and integral membrane CD44) have potential therapeutic value. The binding of RHAMM to HA is an attractive target, since RHAMM is normally absent or expressed at low levels in homeostatic conditions, but its expression is significantly elevated in the extracellular matrix during tissue stress, response‐to‐injury, and in cancers and inflammation‐based diseases. The HA‐binding site in RHAMM contains two closely spaced sequences of clustered basic amino acids, in an alpha‐helical conformation. In the present communication, we test whether an alpha‐helical conformation is required for effective peptide binding to HA, and competitive disruption of HA–RHAMM interaction. The HA‐binding RHAMM‐competitive peptide P15‐1, identified using the unbiased approach of phage display, was examined using circular dichroism spectroscopy and the conformation‐predictive AI‐based AlphaFold2 algorithm. Unlike the HA‐binding site in RHAMM, peptide P15‐1 was found to adopt irregular conformations in solution rather than alpha helices. Instead, our structural analysis suggests that the primary determinant of peptide‐HA binding is associated with a specific clustering and spacing pattern of basic amino acids, allowing favorable electrostatic interaction with carboxylate groups on HA.
A novel method to quantify TSG‐6 protein levels in synovial fluid from osteoarthritis patients
Authors: Scott Jenny L. , Dong Yan , Yin Junying , Dodd Rebecca J. , Kouvatsos Nikolaos , Drummond Sheona P. , Anand Sanjay , Biant Leela C. , Milner Caroline M. , Day Anthony J.
Published: September 2024

TSG‐6, the protein product of Tumor Necrosis Factor‐stimulated gene‐6, is a potential biomarker of disease activity/progression in osteoarthritis (OA). By ELISA, TSG‐6 is elevated in synovial fluid (SF) from OA patients and its catalytic activity, for the covalent transfer of inter‐α‐inhibitor heavy chains onto hyaluronan (HA), is reported to correlate with progression to total knee replacement. Here, quantitative western blot (qWB) analysis, following sequential digestion with hyaluronidase and chondroitinase enzymes, was developed for the accurate determination of TSG‐6 levels in SFs. qWB analysis of 125 OA SFs yielded values of 1.0–45.2 μg/mL (median: 3.9 μg/mL), 100–1000‐fold higher than those previously reported; TSG‐6 concentration was positively correlated with age and pain/outcome scores in male patients. The values determined, by ELISA or a heavy chain transfer activity assay, following the same digestion conditions (in 23 SFs), were both ≥10‐fold lower. Apparent TSG‐6 catalytic activity was significantly affected by the concentration of HA present in SF or added exogenously. Thus, the interactions of TSG‐6 with components of OA SF prevent accurate determination of its concentration/activity when using existing assays. However, the quantitative western blot method developed here appears more suitable for further evaluation of the utility of TSG‐6 as a biomarker in OA.
FTD‐MND: Importance of Specialised Multidisciplinary Input
Authors: Owen David , Dawson Kenneth , Varanasi Amrita
Published: September 2024

A case of frontotemporal dementia with motor neurone disease (FTD‐MND) is presented including diagnosis and inpatient management. This rare form of dementia demonstrates that input from multiple professional sources is required to effectively manage this condition. It highlights the ongoing need experienced by this small but significant population of dementia sufferers.
The nuclear pore protein Nup2 is essential for growth and development, stress response, pathogenicity and deoxynivalenol biosynthesis in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Wang Yaxuan , Zhang Chengqi , Zhao Xiaozhen , Qiu Yuxin , Wang Xiaoyan , Zhao Chenzhong , Qi Yongxia , Wan Qiong , Chen Li
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Wheat is an important grain crop that has been under serious threat from Fusarium graminearum. Nup2, a member of the nuclear pore complex, plays an important role in regulating eukaryotic nuclear protein transport and participates in gene regulation. Dissecting the function of nuclear pore proteins in pathogenic fungi may provide effective targets for novel fungicides.

RESULTS

Mutants exhibited nutritional growth defects, asexual/sexual developmental abnormalities. Deficiency of FgNup2 resulted in increased resistance of Fusarium graminearum to cell wall disruptors and increased sensitivity to metal ions. Pathogenicity analyses showed that the mutant was significantly less virulent on flowering wheat ears, consistent with the observed decrease in deoxynivalenol (DON) production. Furthermore, we showed that FgNup2 interacts synergistically with FgTri6, a transcription factor of the TRI family, to regulate the expression of toxin‐producing genes, which, in turn, affects the biosynthesis of DON and related toxins.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that FgNup2 plays important roles in the growth and development, cell wall integrity, stress response, pathogenicity, and DON synthesis of F. graminearum. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The management of chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Harlow Chris , Agarwal Kosh
Published: September 2024

Given the myriad of available tests, guidelines and treatments, chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) can seem daunting for the nonspecialist. However, its prevalence among some of the most vulnerable in society, the stigma surrounding it and its potential to lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) make it crucial for the frontline primary care physician to understand.
Current treatments in schizophrenia
Authors: Navti Beryl , Nikolic Nik
Published: September 2024

The understanding of schizophrenia has remarkably expanded over the past few decades, moving beyond the dopamine hypothesis to encompass neurotransmitter interplays, structural brain changes and genetic and environmental determinants. This has led to innovations in therapeutic interventions that offer improved outcomes. This paper explores past and current treatments available for schizophrenia, the latest pharmacological advances and the significance of psychotherapeutic approaches.
Ruxolitinib cream
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: September 2024

Ruxolitinib cream is licensed for the treatment of non‐segmental vitiligo with facial involvement in adolescents (≥12 years old) and adults. This article summarises its mechanism of action, the clinical trial evidence of efficacy and its place in therapy.
On Some Modeling Issues in Estimating Vaccine Efficacy
Authors: Gasparini Mauro
Published: September 2024

I would like to reconsider a recent analysis by Prof. Senn on the statistics of the Pfizer‐BioNTech vaccine trial, to express some different opinions and to clarify some theoretical points, especially regarding the clinical applications of Bayesian statistics.
Spin‐s$s$ Dicke States and Their Preparation
Authors: Nepomechie Rafael I. , Ravanini Francesco , Raveh David
Published: September 2024

The notion of spin‐ Dicke states is introduced, which are higher‐spin generalizations of usual (spin‐1/2) Dicke states. These multi‐qudit states can be expressed as superpositions of qudit Dicke states. They satisfy a recursion formula, which is used to formulate an efficient quantum circuit for their preparation, whose size scales as , where is the number of qudits and is the number of times the total spin‐lowering operator is applied to the highest‐weight state. The algorithm is deterministic and does not require ancillary qudits.
Unravelling diagnostic challenges: A case report of pulmonary langerhans cell histiocytosis with atypical radiologic presentation
Authors: Inauen Joseph , Barry Simone
Published: September 2024

This clinical case highlights the diagnostic challenges encountered in a young adult smoker presenting with undifferentiated pulmonary nodules. Initial investigations were inconclusive, necessitating surgical lung biopsy due to the nodules' size and location. The histopathological examination revealed pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PLCH). This emphasizes the importance of considering PLCH in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary nodules, particularly in smokers. Moreover, it underscores the value of surgical biopsy in cases where other diagnostic techniques are limited. Early recognition and accurate diagnosis are crucial for optimal management and outcomes in PLCH.
Portable X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry accurately measures metal concentrations in aqueous Mehlich III soil extraction solutions
Authors: Hart Emma J. A. , Siebecker Matthew G.
Published: September 2024

Accurate measurement of metal concentrations in soil and water is vital for healthy crop production and decision making for environmental surveys. While there are a multitude of laboratory‐based soil analysis methods, such as inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), flame emission spectrometry, and atomic absorption spectroscopy, most are time and resource intensive. Additionally, there is a lack of information for rapid analysis of elements for aqueous soil extractions. The goal of this research is to establish elemental correlations between portable X‐ray fluorescence (pXRF) measurements of Mehlich III soil extractions and traditional elemental measurements via ICP‐OES. We hypothesize that certain metals can be accurately measured in aqueous soil extraction solutions by pXRF to the same degree as they are measured by ICP‐OES. To test this hypothesis, Mehlich III and 2% nitric acid solutions with known elemental concentrations were analyzed via ICP‐OES and pXRF. Soil samples extracted using Mehlich III were compared between ICP‐OES and pXRF to verify correlations. High correlations were found for As, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn in both the Mehlich III and 2% nitric acid solutions at concentrations between 5 and 85 mg L−1. P, S, and Si did not show high correlations at concentrations <100 mg L−1. These results indicate that between 5 and 85 mg L−1, pXRF analysis of aqueous solutions and soil extractions is a reliable technique; however, at low concentrations (i.e., <5 mg L−1 for metals and <100 mg L−1 for P and S), pXRF is not well suited.
Heed lessons learned for leadership success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2024

PHILADELPHIA — Four decades in high‐level leadership positions in the higher education environment have provided Barbara Gellman‐Danley, Ph.D., with valuable lessons learned.
Advancing green education in MENA region: Challenges, opportunities and best practices
Authors: Onyeaka Helen , Akinsemolu Adenike A.
Published: September 2024

This paper explores Green Education in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), addressing shared environmental challenges across its 21 diverse countries. Despite differing economic structures, economies and politics, the need for green education, also known as environmental education (EE) or education for sustainable development (ESD), is evident. MENA encounters obstacles like centralised education structures, governance issues, curriculum gaps, limited funding, environmental awareness and gender disparities. Overcoming these challenges necessitates a comprehensive strategy involving curriculum integration, policy support, collaboration with non‐governmental organisations and international organisations, sufficient funding and effective monitoring. Engaging in global initiatives like the Paris Agreement and the Middle East Green Initiative provides opportunities to enhance EE. Adopting a holistic approach empowers the MENA region to address environmental concerns, promote sustainable development and align with global conservation efforts.
3D Printing‐Induced Hierarchically Aligned Nanocomposites With Exceptional Multidirectional Strain Sensing Performance
Authors: Liu Yanjun , Wang Zhenyu , Song Xinyu , Shen Xi , Wei Yi , Hua Chenxi , Shao Pengpeng , Qu Daopeng , Jiang Jing , Liu Yu
Published: September 2024

High‐performance sensors capable of detecting multidirectional strains are indispensable to understand the complex motions involved in flexible electronics. Conventional isotropic strain sensors can only measure uniaxial deformations or single stimuli, hindering their practical application fields. The answer to such challenge resides in the construction of engineered anisotropic sensing structures. Herein, a hierarchically aligned carbon nanofiber (CNF)/polydimethylsiloxane nanocomposite strain sensor is developed by one‐step 3D printing. The precisely controlled printing path and shear flow bring about highly aligned nanocomposite filaments at macroscale and orientated CNF network within each filament at microscale. The periodically orientated nanocomposite filaments along with the inner aligned CNF network successfully control the strain distribution and the appearance of microcracks, giving rise to anisotropic structural response to external deformations. The synergetic effect of the multiscale structural design leads to distinguishable gauge factors of 164 and 0.5 for applied loadings along and transverse to the alignment direction, leading to an exceptional selectivity of 3.77. The real‐world applications of the hierarchically aligned sensors in multiaxial movement detector and posture‐correction device are further demonstrated. The above findings propose new ideas for manufacturing nanocomposites with engineered anisotropic structure and properties, verifying promising applications in emerging wearable electronics and soft robotics.
Guided Heterostructure Growth of CoFe LDH on Ti3C2Tx MXene for Durably High Oxygen Evolution Activity
Authors: Sheng Jiali , Kang Jiahui , Jiang Pan , Meinander Kristoffer , Hong Xiaodan , Jiang Hua , Nonappa  , Ikkala Olli , Komsa Hannu‐Pekka , Peng Bo , Lv Zhong‐Peng
Published: September 2024

Heterostructures of layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and MXenes have shown great promise for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts, owing to their complementary physical properties. Coupling LDHs with MXenes can potentially enhance their conductivity, stability, and OER activity. In this work, a scalable and straightforward in situ guided growth of CoFeLDH on Ti3C2Tx is introduced, where the surface chemistry of Ti3C2Tx dominates the resulting heterostructures, allowing tunable crystal domain sizes of LDHs. Combined simulation results of Monte Carlo and density functional theory (DFT) validate this guided growth mechanism. Through this way, the optimized heterostructures allow the highest OER activity of the overpotential = 301 mV and Tafel slope = 43 mV dec−1 at 10 mA cm−2, and a considerably durable stability of 0.1% decay over 200 h use, remarkably outperforming all reported LDHs‐MXenes materials. DFT calculations indicate that the charge transfer in heterostructures can decrease the rate‐limiting energy barrier for OER, facilitating OER activity. The combined experimental and theoretical efforts identify the participation role of MXene in heterostructures for OER reactions, providing insights into designing advanced heterostructures for robust OER electrocatalysis.
Entropy‐Driven 60 mol% Li Electrolyte for Li Metal‐Free Batteries
Authors: Wu Shengan , Nishigaki Yuhi , Hagiwara Rika , Hwang Jinkwang , Matsumoto Kazuhiko
Published: September 2024

Highly Li‐concentrated electrolytes are acknowledged for their compatibility with Li metal negative electrodes and high voltage positive electrodes to achieve high‐energy Li metal batteries, showcasing stable and facile interfaces for Li deposition/dissolution and high anodic stability. This study aims to explore a highly concentrated electrolyte by adopting entropy‐driven chemistry for Li metal‐free (so‐called anode‐free) batteries. The combination of lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)amide (LiFSA) and lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiOTf) salts in a pyrrolidinium‐based ionic liquid is found to significantly modify the coordination structure, resulting in an unprecedented 60 mol% Li concentration and a low solvent‐to‐salt ratio of 0.67:1 in the electrolyte system. This novel 60 mol% Li electrolyte demonstrates unique coordination stricture, featuring a high ratio of monodentate‐anion structures and aggregates, which facilitates an enhanced Li+ transference number and improved anodic stability. Moreover, the developed electrolyte provides a facile de‐coordination process and leads to the formation of an anion‐based solid electrolyte interface, which enables stable Li deposition/dissolution properties and demonstrates excellent cycling stability in the Li metal‐free full cell with a Li[Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1]O2 (NCM811) positive electrode.
Electronic Structure Regulated Carbon‐Based Single‐Atom Catalysts for Highly Efficient and Stable Electrocatalysis
Authors: Sun Xiaohui , Zhang Peng , Zhang Bangyan , Xu Chunming
Published: September 2024

Single‐atom‐catalysts (SACs) with atomically dispersed sites on carbon substrates have attained great advancements in electrocatalysis regarding maximum atomic utilization, unique chemical properties, and high catalytic performance. Precisely regulating the electronic structure of single‐atom sites offers a rational strategy to optimize reaction processes associated with the activation of reactive intermediates with enhanced electrocatalytic activities of SACs. Although several approaches are proposed in terms of charge transfer, band structure, orbital occupancy, and the spin state, the principles for how electronic structure controls the intrinsic electrocatalytic activity of SACs have not been sufficiently investigated. Herein, strategies for regulating the electronic structure of carbon‐based SACs are first summarized, including nonmetal heteroatom doping, coordination number regulating, defect engineering, strain designing, and dual‐metal‐sites scheming. Second, the impacts of electronic structure on the activation behaviors of reactive intermediates and the electrocatalytic activities of water splitting, oxygen reduction reaction, and CO2/N2 electroreduction reactions are thoroughly discussed. The electronic structure‐performance relationships are meticulously understood by combining key characterization techniques with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Finally, a conclusion of this paper and insights into the challenges and future prospects in this field are proposed. This review highlights the understanding of electronic structure‐correlated electrocatalytic activity for SACs and guides their progress in electrochemical applications.
Low Temperature Plasma‐Assisted Double Anodic Dissolution: A New Approach for the Synthesis of GdFeO3 Perovskite Nanoparticles
Authors: Tarasenka Natalie , Padmanaban Dilli Babu , Karpinsky Dmitry , Arredondo Miryam , Tarasenko Nikolai , Mariotti Davide
Published: September 2024

Orthorhombic perovskite GdFeO3 nanostructures are promising materials with multiferroic properties. In this study, a new low‐temperature plasma‐assisted approach is developed via dual anodic dissolution of solid metallic precursors for the preparation of perovskite GdFeO3 nanoparticles (NPs) that can be collected both as colloids as well as deposited as a thin film on a substrate. Two solid metallic foils of Gd and Fe are used as precursors, adding to the simplicity and sustainability of the method. The formation of the orthorhombic perovskite GdFeO3 phase is supported by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman measurements, while a uniform elemental distribution of Gd, Fe, and O is confirmed by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, proving the successful preparation of ternary compound NPs. The magnetic properties of the NPs show zero remnant magnetization typical of antiferromagnetic materials, and saturation at high fields that can be caused by spin interaction between Gd and Fe magnetic sublattices. The formation mechanism of ternary compound NPs in this novel plasma‐assisted method is also discussed. This method is also modified to demonstrate the direct one‐step deposition of thin films, opening up opportunities for their future applications in the fabrication of magnetic memory devices and gas sensors.
Effect of Martensite–Bainite Duplex Microstructure on Carbide Precipitation and Mechanical Properties of M50 Steel
Authors: Zheng Dongyue , Zhao Wenzeng , Yu Xingfu , Su Yong , Wei Yinghua
Published: September 2024

By means of microstructure observation, phase analysis, and mechanical‐property tests, the effect of martensite–bainite (M–B) duplex microstructure on carbide precipitation and mechanical properties of M50 steel is studied. In that results, it is shown that the distribution of secondary carbides in specimens with M–B duplex microstructure is more uniform and finer, and the stability of retained austenite (RA) in the steel is also improved, so that the content of RA in specimens with M–B duplex microstructure is 2.34%, which is higher than the 0.94% of the specimens with full martensite microstructure. The M–B duplex microstructure leads to the reduction of tempering hardness of M50 steel to 60.9 unit of Rockwell hardness (HRC), compared to the 61.6 HRC of the specimens with full martensite microstructure, but the wear resistance is slightly enhanced. Moreover, the M–B duplex microstructure effectively improves the impact toughness and fatigue properties by refining the microstructure and carbides in the steel, and the increase amplitude is 47.4% and 41.0%, respectively.
“English Is Not Really a Subject”: Language Ideologies and Language Learning in an Introduction Program
Authors: Bergström Jenny , Jonsson Carla , Shaswar Annika Norlund
Published: September 2024

This paper explores the construction of language ideologies and language learning within English‐language education in a Language Introduction Program (LIP) in Sweden. LIP is an individual transitional program for newly arrived migrant students that seeks to quickly transition adolescents into further education or the job market. High proficiency in English is important in Swedish society and insufficient knowledge of English might lead to consequences for individuals, but also long‐term consequences for society regarding inequality and inequity. The methodology is based on linguistic ethnography, with observations and interviews at two schools. Data from interviews with English teachers and principals at LIP are analyzed using Foucauldian perspectives to discuss power and individualization. Our results show that LIP is organized in a manner that reduces teachers' possibilities to cooperate and assist each other in planning, assessing, and in developing teaching practices. To a certain extent, principals withdraw from their responsibility and place a significant amount of organizational responsibility on individual English teachers. Furthermore, monolingual ideologies are prominent in educational practices, and LIP is often positioned as different from the rest of the school which increases isolation.