bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential susceptibility of male and female germ cells to glucocorticoid-mediated signaling
Authors: Cincotta Steven A. , Richardson Nainoa , Foecke Mariko H. , Laird Diana J.
Published: October 2023

While physiologic stress has long been known to impair mammalian reproductive capacity through hormonal dysregulation, mounting evidence now suggests that stress experienced prior to or during gestation may also negatively impact the health of future offspring. Rodent models of gestational physiologic stress can induce neurologic and behavioral phenotypes that persist for up to three generations, suggesting that stress signals can induce lasting epigenetic changes in the germline. Treatment with glucocorticoid stress hormones is sufficient to recapitulate the transgenerational phenotypes seen in physiologic stress models. These hormones are known to bind and activate the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a ligand-inducible transcription factor, thus implicating GR-mediated signaling as a potential contributor to the transgenerational inheritance of stress-induced phenotypes. Here we demonstrate dynamic spatiotemporal regulation of GR expression in the mouse germline, showing expression in the fetal oocyte as well as the perinatal and adult spermatogonia. Functionally, we find that fetal oocytes are intrinsically buffered against changes in GR signaling, as neither genetic deletion of GR nor GR agonism with dexamethasone altered the transcriptional landscape or the progression of fetal oocytes through meiosis. In contrast, our studies revealed that the male germline is susceptible to glucocorticoid-mediated signaling, specifically by regulating RNA splicing within the spermatogonia, although this does not abrogate fertility. Together, our work suggests a sexually dimorphic function for GR in the germline, and represents an important step towards understanding the mechanisms by which stress can modulate the transmission of genetic information through the germline.
SPAG7 deletion causes intrauterine growth restriction, resulting in adulthood obesity and metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Flaherty Stephen E , Bezy Olivier , Paulhus Brianna LaCarubba , Song LouJin , Piper Mary , Pang Jincheng , Park Yoson , Asano Shoh , Lien Yu-Chin , Griffin John D , Robertson Andrew , Opsahl Alan , Shanthappa Dinesh Hirenallur , Ahn Youngwook , Pashos Evanthia , Simmons Rebecca G , Birnbaum Morris J , Wu Zhidan
Published: October 2023

From a forward mutagenetic screen to discover mutations associated with obesity, we identified mutations in the
spag7
gene linked to metabolic dysfunction in mice. Here we show that SPAG7 KO mice are born smaller and develop obesity and glucose intolerance in adulthood. This obesity does not stem from hyperphagia, but a decrease in energy expenditure. The KO animals also display reduced exercise tolerance and muscle function due to impaired mitochondrial function. Furthermore, SPAG7-deficiency in developing embryos leads to intrauterine growth restriction, brought on by placental insufficiency, likely due to abnormal development of the placental junctional zone. This insufficiency leads to loss of SPAG7-deficient fetuses in utero and reduced birth weights of those that survive. We hypothesize that a “thrifty phenotype” is ingrained in SPAG7 KO animals during development that leads to adult obesity. Collectively, these results indicate that SPAG7 is essential for embryonic development and energy homeostasis later in life.
Habitat fragmentation weakens the positive relationship between grassland plant richness and above-ground biomass
Authors: Yan Yongzhi , Jarvie Scott , Zhang Qing
Published: October 2023

Anthropogenic habitat fragmentation has been shown to be a major threat to global biodiversity and ecosystem function. However, little is known about how habitat fragmentation alters the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem function (BEF relationship). Based on 130 landscapes identified using a stratified random sampling in the agro-pastoral ecotone of northern China, we investigated using a structural equation model the effects of habitat fragmentation (including habitat loss and fragmentation per se) on plant richness, above-ground biomass, and the relationship between them in grassland communities. We found that habitat loss decreased plant richness, while fragmentation per se increased plant richness. Fragmentation per se decreased above-ground biomass, while habitat loss had no significant effect on above-ground biomass. Neither habitat loss nor fragmentation per se affected the direction of the positive relationship between plant richness and above-ground biomass. However, habitat loss decreased the magnitude of the positive relationship by reducing the percentage of grassland specialists in the community. These results demonstrate that habitat loss and fragmentation per se have inconsistent effects on biodiversity and ecosystem function, with the BEF relationship being moderated by landscape context. Our findings emphasize that habitat loss rather than fragmentation per se can weaken the positive BEF relationship by decreasing the degree of habitat specialization of the community.BEF relationship is moderated by landscape context in fragmented landscapes.Habitat loss and fragmentation per se have inconsistent effects.Habitat loss can weaken the positive BEF relationship.
Potassium-mediated bacterial chemotactic response
Authors: Zhang Chi , Zhang Rongjing , Yuan Junhua
Published: October 2023

Bacteria in biofilms secrete potassium ions to attract free swimming cells. However, the basis of chemotaxis to potassium remains poorly understood. Here, using a microfluidic device, we found that
Escherichia coli
can rapidly accumulate in regions of high potassium concentration on the order of millimoles. Using a bead assay, we measured the dynamic response of individual flagellar motors to stepwise changes in potassium concentration, finding that the response resulted from the chemotaxis signaling pathway instead of the motor response to changes in the proton motive force (PMF). To characterize the chemotactic response to potassium, we exposed the bacteria to a range of potassium concentrations and measured the dose-response curve and adaptation kinetics via a FRET assay, finding that the chemotaxis pathway exhibited a sensitive response and fast adaptation to potassium. We further found that the two major chemoreceptors Tar and Tsr respond differently to potassium. Tar receptors exhibit a biphasic response, whereas Tsr receptors respond to potassium as an attractant. These different responses were consistent with the responses of the two receptors to intracellular pH changes. Therefore, bacteria may sense the change in potassium concentration by sensing the change in intracellular pH. The sensitive response and fast adaptation allow bacteria to sense and localize small changes in potassium concentration. As the ratio of the two major chemoreceptors changes with bacterial growth stages, the differential responses of Tar and Tsr receptors to potassium suggest that cells at different growth stages respond differently to potassium and may have different requirements for potassium.
Mitochondrial genome characteristics of six Phylloscopus species and their phylogenetic implication
Authors: Yang Chao , Dong Xiaomei , Wang Qingxiong , Hou Xiang , Yuan Hao , Li Xuejuan
Published: October 2023

The mitochondrial genomes of six Phylloscopus species—small insectivores belonging to the Phylloscopidae family—were obtained using the Illumina sequencing platform. The mitogenomes were closed circular molecules 16,922–17,007 bp in size, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and two control regions (CR1 and remnant CR2). The gene orders were conserved in 35 sampled Phylloscopus mitogenomes in the GenBank database, with a gene rearrangement of cytb-trnT-CR1-trnP-nad6-trnE-remnant CR2-trnF-rrnS. The average base compositions of the six Phylloscopus mitogenomes were 29.43% A, 32.75% C, 14.68% G, and 23.10% T, with the A+T content slightly higher than that of G+C. ATG and TAA were the most frequent initiating and terminating codons, respectively. Several conserved boxes were identified in CR1, including C-string in domain I; F, E, D, and C boxes, as well as bird similarity and B boxes, in domain II; and CSB1 in domain III. Tandem repeats were observed in remnant CR2 of the Phylloscopus fuscatus and Phylloscopus proregulus mitogenomes. A phylogenetic analysis with maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods, based on 13 protein-coding genes and two rRNA genes, indicated that the Phylloscopus species was divided into two larger clades, with a splitting time approximately 11.06 million years ago (mya). The taxa of Phylloscopus coronatus/Phylloscopus burkii and Phylloscopus inornatus/P. proregulus were located at the basal position of the different clades. The phylogenetic result of the cox1 gene showed that Seicercus was nested within Phylloscopus. The complete set of mitogenomes of the Phylloscopus species provides potentially useful resources for the further exploration of the taxonomic status and phylogenetic history of Phylloscopidae.
Viability of ESports Service Provider in the Local Market in the Second District of Albay: Opportunity of Investment
Authors: Magcalen Willard Nathan
Published: October 2023

Online gaming is now a spectator sport, thanks to ESports. The experience is similar to watching a professional athletic event, but viewers see video gamers compete against one another instead of a physical contest. This qualitative research determined ESport’s viability status in the 2nd District of Albay. It sought to determine the status of the business requirements needed to establish an ESports business along with Network Infrastructure, Legal requirements, and Stability of power. It also evaluates the viability of ESports in the local market regarding technical and economic requirements. It focuses on the challenges of the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) in providing opportunities for investment in e-services. Lastly, this research proposed a business process mapping model canvas that potential investors can adopt. The study revealed limited information regarding the stability of power in the context of ESports. No specific information was provided regarding how power stability is ensured or what measures are taken to ensure uninterrupted power supply during ESports tournaments. Likewise, power outages and fluctuations can cause disruptions and affect the gameplay, leading to frustration for players and viewers. Regularly maintaining electrical equipment and wiring is also necessary to prevent power outages and hazards. Technically ESports is viable, despite challenges that may be encountered, and does create a business model canvas.
Policy Awareness, Current Practices, and Barriers: A Proposed Upskilling to Special Education Teachers and Receiving Teachers towards Culture of Inclusivity
Authors: Garcia Arlene
Published: October 2023

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of key aspects related to the distribution of Special Education Teachers (SPET) and receiving teachers, their awareness of inclusive education policies, their practices, and the barriers they face. Data collected from diverse educators shed light on age, gender, teaching experience, specialization, policy awareness, and inclusive practices. The study highlights the diverse age distribution among teachers handling the SPED program. Furthermore, it points out the prominence of female teachers in the workforce. A significant proportion of teachers possess limited teaching experience and a limited number of specialized SPED teachers. Regarding policy awareness, both Special Education Teachers (SPET) and receiving teachers clearly understand inclusive education policies. Inclusive practices among teachers were consistently observed, especially in admission, teaching, and modifying learning packages for learners with special needs. Identifying the lack of training as a major barrier in IE, there is a necessity for professional development to support effective inclusive practices. The findings underscore vital family support services, parental engagement in decision-making, and collaborative opportunities. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends targeted professional development for teachers, awareness campaigns on Indigenous Peoples' rights, encouraging specialization in SPED, strengthening collaboration, and expanding effective practices like the "Child Find" approach.
Frontmatter (Front Cover, Editorial Team, Indexing, and Table of Contents)
Authors: Istadi Istadi
Published: October 2023

Frontmatter (Front Cover, Editorial Team, Indexing, and Table of Contents)
Inflammation and Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis Post Faricimab
Authors: Bruening Will , Kim Sean , Yeh Steven , Rishi Pukhraj , Conrady Christopher D.
Published: January 2025

Importance

Randomized clinical trials have shown the safety and efficacy of faricimab as a novel vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin-2 inhibitor in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and macular edema of various etiologies. However, more rare adverse events may not be considered in clinical trials.

Objective

To describe 3 eyes that developed irreversible vision loss following initial mild intraocular inflammation (IOI) to faricimab.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective case series from a single academic tertiary referral center (University of Nebraska Medical Center) from October 2023 to August 2024 included 3 patients who developed occlusive retinal vasculitis (ORV) following an initial sensitization with intravitreal faricimab. Two eyes were being treated with faricimab for nAMD, and the other 2 eyes were treated for diabetic macular edema.

Intervention

Patients exposed to faricimab after the prior development of mild IOI.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Clinical symptoms, signs, and clinical course of patients who were diagnosed with ORV following rechallenge with faricimab.

Results

Mild IOI developed in 4 eyes following faricimab, and ORV developed in 3 eyes with repeated challenge. This resulted in profound, irreversible vision loss, despite treatment with topical and systemic steroids. In the eye that did not develop ORV following rechallenge, there have been no repeated adverse events despite restarting intravitreal faricimab injections.

Conclusions and Relevance

Given these observations with repeated challenge, caution is advisable when using the same biologic after the development of even mild IOI with prior injection. It appears an immunological memory response is elicited with these repeated exposures, resulting in the development of ORV.
Dendritic Magnesium Formation in Conventional Electrolytes: Local Adsorption of Amine Solvents at Inner Helmholtz Plane Matters
Authors: Li Chunqiu , Sun Wenhao , Zhou Hang , Xun Kangkai , Cao Huiying , Zhang Zhonghua , Zhou Zhenfang , Liu Jing , Li Guicun
Published: January 2025

Simple salts electrolyte is imperative for developing commercially feasible rechargeable magnesium (Mg) metal batteries. However, Mg electro‐plating/stripping reversibility in these electrolytes is far from satisfactory, which is mainly caused by interfacial passivation and dendrite growth of Mg‐metal anode. Therefore, it is of great urgent to develop a molecule‐level mechanistic understanding on electrode–electrolyte interfacial reactions. In this work, the transformation pathways of solvents at the inner Helmholtz plane are revealed to play a key role in reversibility deterioration and cell failure of Mg‐metal anodes. A benzylamine co‐solvent is introduced into simple salts electrolyte, which is closely related to gas evolution, MgH2 formation and possible electrochemical active species formation on surface of Mg‐metal anodes. The uneven adsorption of active species leads to a multiplicative effect on local current density, which causes dendrite growth. Interestingly, benzylamine solvents are demonstrated to do not directly participate in the first Mg2+ solvation sheath structures, instead they exhibit specific adsorption at the inner Helmholtz plane attributed to significant steric hindrance. As a result, visual bottle‐type asymmetric cells display a fair cycle life of above 500 cycles, while coin‐type assembly exhibits serious soft short circuit and recovery behavior during cycling.
Operando Nanoscale Characterization Reveals Fe Doping of Ni Oxide Enhances Oxygen Evolution Reaction via Fragmentation and Formation of Dual Active Sites
Authors: Liang Yunchang , Parreiras Sofia O. , Lee Seunghwa , Banjac Karla , Boureau Victor , Gallego José M. , Hu Xile , Écija David , Lingenfelder Magalí
Published: January 2025

Efficient catalytic water splitting demands advanced catalysts to improve the slow kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Earth‐abundant transition metal oxides show promising OER activity in alkaline media. However, most experimental information available is either from post‐mortem studies or in situ space‐averaged X‐ray techniques in the micrometer range. Therefore, the composition of the active centers under operando conditions is still under debate. In this work, we combine nanoscopic and spectroscopic measurements on the hydroxylation of molecular beam epitaxy (MBE)‐prepared Ni and NiFe oxides nanoislands with operando local investigations of Ni and NiFe hydroxide electrocatalysts under OER conditions to reveal the nature of the active centers in 2D OER catalysts. Our results reveal that Fe doping increases the active surface area by island fragmentation, and boosts the intrinsic activity by creating optimized active centers consisting of both Ni and Fe atoms. In addition, our findings show that operando characterization at the nanoscale is crucial to reveal the dynamic nature of the interface of 2D catalysts under reaction conditions.
Switching CO2 Electroreduction toward C2+ Products and CH4 by Regulating the Dimerization and Protonation in Platinum/Copper Catalysts
Authors: Hou Tailei , Zhu Jiexin , Gu Hongfei , Li Xinyuan , Sun Yiqing , Hua Ze , Shao Ruiwen , Chen Cheng , Hu Botao , Mai Liqiang , Chen Shenghua , Wang Dingsheng , Zhang Jiatao
Published: January 2025

Copper (Cu)‐based catalysts exhibit distinctive performance in the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) with complex mechanism and sophisticated types of products. The management of key intermediates *CO and *H is a necessary factor for achieving high product selectivity, but lack of efficient and versatile strategies. Herein, we designed Pt modified Cu catalysts to effectively modulate the competitive coverage of those intermediates. The Pt single‐atoms and Pt nanoparticles modified Cu catalysts (denoted as Cu‐Pt1 and Cu‐PtNPs) precisely regulated the protonation and dimerization, with the faradaic efficiency (FE) of C2+ products up to 70.4 % and the FE of CH4 reaching 57.7 %, respectively. CO stripping experiments reveal that Pt1 sites could enhance the adsorption of *CO, while PtNPs exhibit *CO tolerance for H2O dissociation. In situ spectroscopic results further confirms that high coverage of *CO is achieved on Cu‐Pt1, while *CHO on Cu‐PtNPs might generate by additional water dissociation. As elucidated by theoretical studies, the interfacial sites of Cu‐Pt1 would favor the *CO coverage promoting the evolution of *OCCO for C2+ products while PtNPs supplementarily accelerate H2O dissociation achieving *CHO for CH4. This work provides insights for efficient and targeted CO2 conversion by atomically design of active sites with engineered key intermediates coverage.
High‐Entropy Aqueous Electrolyte Induced Formation of Water‐Poor Zn2+ Solvation Structures and Gradient Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase for Long‐Life Zn‐Metal Anodes
Authors: Lin Lin , Shao Zhipeng , Liu Shizhuo , Yang Peng , Zhu Kaiping , Zhuang Wubin , Li Chaowei , Guo Gengde , Wang Wenhui , Hong Guo , Wu Bing , Zhang Qichong , Yao Yagang
Published: January 2025

Electrolyte engineering has emerged as an effective strategy for stabilizing Zn‐metal anodes. However, a single solute or solvent additive is far from sufficient to meet the requirements for electrolyte cycling stability. Here, we report a new‐type high‐entropy electrolyte composed of equal molar amounts of Zn(OTf)2 and LiOTf, along with equal volumes of H2O, triethyl phosphate, and dimethyl sulfoxide, which enhances electrolyte stability by increasing solvation entropy. Specifically, this well‐designed high‐entropy electrolyte reduces the content of solvated and free water molecules while forming a robust gradient solid‐electrolyte interphase on the Zn anode surface, protecting the Zn anode from water‐induced corrosion. Moreover, the cationic electrostatic shielding layer on the Zn anode effectively suppresses the “tip effect”, enabling the uniform deposition of Zn. The synergistic effects of this mixed electrolyte effectively leverage the properties of individual additives, significantly extending the cycle life of Zn‐metal anodes. Consequently, the resulting Zn//Zn symmetric cell using this high‐entropy electrolyte can operate over 8000 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 0.5 mAh cm−2. To highlight, in a Zn//V2O5⋅H2O pouch cell, it retains 83.1 % of initial capacity after 420 cycles at 1 A g−1. Such multifunctional high‐entropy electrolyte design provides a meaningful reference for stable Zn‐metal anodes.
Bias‐Free Solar‐Driven Ammonia Coupled to C3‐Dihydroxyacetone Production through Photoelectrochemistry
Authors: Su Kerong , Ren Shijie , Gao Rui‐Ting , Bai Guang‐En , Wu Limin , Wang Lei
Published: January 2025

Conversion of solar energy into value‐added chemicals through photoelectrochemistry (PEC) holds great potential for advancing sustainable development but limits by high onset potential which affects energy conversion efficiencies. Herein, we utilized a CuPd cocatalyst‐modified Sb2(S,Se)3 photocathode (CuPd/TSSS) to achieve an ultra‐low onset potential of 0.83 VRHE for photoelectrochemical ammonia synthesis. Meanwhile, we achieved unbiased NH3 production by synthesizing major value‐added C3‐dihydroxyacetone (DHA) through glycerol oxidation on the BiVO4 photoanode with the loading Pd cocatalyst, instead of a traditional solar water oxidation reaction. The PEC integrated system stably produced 11.98 μmol cm−2 of NH3 and 201.9 mmol m−2 of DHA over 5 h with ~80 % faradaic efficiency without applying additional bias. In situ analysis and theoretical calculations confirmed high catalytic activity for ammonia synthesis at the CuPd/TSSS photocathode and enhanced selectivity for DHA at the Pd/BiVO4 photoanode. This design represents a breakthrough in directly utilizing solar energy, nitrate‐containing wastewater, and biomass waste for ammonia and highly value‐added C3 production, which addresses increasing energy demands while decreasing environmental impact.
Crystal Structure and Photoluminescence Properties of Ca3(PO4)2:Eu3+ Phosphors With High Emission Efficiency
Authors: Park K. , Kim D. H. , Pi J. W. , Gwon S. Y. , Jeon E. C. , Kim J. S.
Published: January 2025

The influence of Eu3+ concentration on the crystal structure and photoluminescence (PL) properties of Ca3‐x(PO4)2:xEu3+ (0.06 ≤ x ≤ 0.10) phosphors is systematically investigated using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) Rietveld refinement, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, UV‐visible spectroscopy, and PL spectroscopy. The prepared phosphors exhibit a single rhombohedral phase with the space group R3c. The constituent ions occupy various crystallographic sites, including Ca(1–5), Eu(1–3), P(1–3), and O(1–10) sites. Under 397‐nm excitation, the emission spectra show distinct emission peaks between 525 and 725 nm, corresponding to the 5D1 → 7Fj (j = 1 and 2) and 5D0 → 7Fj (j = 1, 2, 3, and 4) transitions of Eu3+ ions. The concentration quenching observed in the phosphors is attributed to electric multipolar interactions. Among the prepared phosphors, Ca2.92(PO4)2:0.08Eu3+ phosphor shows the highest emission efficiency and excellent color performance. These results demonstrate that Ca3‐x(PO4)2:xEu3+ phosphors have significant potential as red‐emitting materials for white light–emitting diode (WLED) applications.
Insights into the morphology‐productivity relationship of filamentous fungi through small‐scale cultivation and automated microscopy of Thermothelomyces thermophilus
Authors: Rohr Katja , Geinitz Bertram , Seiffarth Johannes , Anbarani Aydin , Bernauer Sören , Moch Matthias , Tenhaef Julia , Wiechert Wolfgang , Nöh Katharina , Oldiges Marco
Published: January 2025

Filamentous fungi are a cornerstone in the biotechnological production of enzymes, proteins, and organic acids. However, challenges in understanding and controlling the relationship between morphology and productivity can limit their application. This study addresses these challenges using Thermothelomyces thermophilus, a promising thermophilic fungus known for the production of thermostable enzymes. We investigated the effects of environmental conditions on fungal morphology and enzyme production using a combination of microbioreactor cultivation, automated liquid handling, and automated microscopy. Specifically, batch and fed batch cultivations were performed at different pH levels and glucose feeding rates to study their effects on secretory phytase production, fungal growth, and morphology. Results from batch cultivations revealed a two‐fold higher phytase activity at pH 5.5 compared to pH 6.5, with notably smaller fungal fragments at the end of cultivation. Conversely, fed batch cultivations at a feeding rate of 1 g (l h)−1 glucose showed a 1.6‐fold higher enzyme activity at pH 5.5, accompanied by much larger fungal aggregates throughout the feeding phase. These findings suggest that large aggregates are associated with high productivity; however, their breakdown further enhances enzyme release, increasing activity in the supernatant. This study not only provides insights on the morphology‐productivity relationship of T. thermophilus, but also demonstrates the efficacy of integrating microbioreactors with automated microscopy. This methodology represents a significant advance in the field of fungal biotechnology, paving the way for more efficient industrial bioprocesses.
A method for facile production of variable lymphocyte receptors using SHuffle Escherichia coli
Authors: Appelt Elizabeth A. , Thoden James B. , Dancy Candis , Bachmeier Hannah D. , Gehrke Seth A. , Staffenson Melanie A. , Rayment Ivan , Katt Moriah E. , Holden Hazel M. , Shusta Eric V.
Published: January 2025

Variable lymphocyte receptors (VLRs) are the antigen receptors of jawless vertebrates such as lamprey. VLRs are of growing biotechnological interest for their ability to bind certain antigenic targets with higher affinity than traditional immunoglobulins. However, VLRs are disulfide‐bonded proteins that are often challenging to produce requiring genetic modifications, fusion partners, non‐scalable host cell lines or inclusion body formation and refolding. As a potential VLR expression platform option, the SHuffle Escherichia coli strain has been genetically altered to allow cytoplasmic disulfide bond formation by mutations to thioredoxin reductase (trxB) and glutathione reductase (gor) to create an oxidative cytoplasm. Furthermore, the SHuffle strain expresses disulfide bond isomerase DsbC in the cytoplasm to promote correct disulfide bond pairing. Here, we demonstrate that the SHuffle strain can produce high yield VLRs with titers ranging from 2 to 32 mg of VLR per liter of SHuffle culture. Three VLRs (P1C10, RBC36, VLRA.R2.1) were expressed in SHuffle E. coli and the products were compared directly to those generated using the Rosetta E. coli strain. All VLRs were validated for correct sequence, purity, and activity. For all VLRs, SHuffle E. coli produced 2–9 times more soluble VLRs than Rosetta E. coli. Furthermore, the soluble protein fraction was 2–6 times greater in SHuffle E. coli than Rosetta E. coli for all VLRs. Overall, these results suggest that the E. coli SHuffle strain is a convenient and effective expression system for producing large amounts of VLRs.
Urban and Rural Differences in Cancer Treatment Disruption Among Patients With COVID‐19: An Analysis of the US ASCO COVID‐19 in Oncology Registry
Authors: Lin Yu Chen , Turner Kea , Nguyen Oliver T. , Hume Emma , Camacho‐Rivera Marlene , Islam Jessica Y.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cancer patients in rural areas experience greater barriers to treatment access compared with patients in urban areas. There is limited research on how the COVID‐19 pandemic affected cancer treatment delivery for rural patients who were also diagnosed with COVID‐19. This study has two objectives: to assess (1) the urban–rural differences in cancer care and (2) the predictors of cancer treatment delay or discontinuation (TDD) among patients diagnosed with COVID‐19.

Methods

We used data from the American Society of Clinical Oncology Survey on COVID‐19 in Oncology Registry (March 2020–September 2022), which included cancer patients with test‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (N = 3797). Data included patient sociodemographic characteristics, COVID‐19 diagnosis information, cancer clinical characteristics, and changes to cancer treatment. Cancer TDD was defined as any scheduled treatment by more than 2 weeks. Rurality was examined through both patient residence and oncology practice. We computed adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) using multivariable Poisson regressions to assess predictors of cancer TDD in urban and rural areas.

Results

During the study period, 44.1% of patients with COVID‐19 experienced either cancer treatment delay or discontinuation and 5.7% experienced cancer treatment discontinuation. Controlling for other factors, receiving care in a rural oncology practice was associated with cancer TDD (aPR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.01–1.55). Differences in cancer TDD were not found across rurality of patient residence. Among rural patients (N = 582), Hispanic/Latinx cancer patients had greater prevalence of cancer TDD (aPR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.04–2.33) compared with non‐Hispanic White cancer patients.

Conclusion

Our findings can be used to inform programs and policies to minimize the impact of future public health emergencies on cancer care delivery in rural areas. Additional research is needed to explore potential differences in cancer care delivery across urban and rural oncology practices and patients.
Synthesis, Structural Analysis and Antibacterial Properties of a Novel β‐Aminoenone
Authors: Jios Eliana , Echeverría Gustavo A. , Piro Oscar E. , Jios Jorge L. , Ulic Sonia E. , Viola Carolina M. , Arena Mario. E.
Published: January 2025

(Z)‐3‐butylamino‐4,4,4‐trifluoro‐1‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)but‐2‐en‐1‐one (1), a new β‐aminoenone, has been investigated in terms of its intra‐ and intermolecular interactions. Vibrational, electronic and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies were used for the characterization, while X‐ray diffraction methods afforded the determination of the crystal structure. The compound is arranged in the crystal lattice as centre‐symmetric H‐bonded dimeric aggregates (C2/c monoclinic space group). Both experimental (infrared, Raman, ultraviolet‐visible transitions and X‐ray diffraction data) and theoretical (Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules and Natural Bond Orbital approaches, calculated spectra and conformational analysis) methods were used to obtain a deep insight into the intra‐ and intermolecular contacts. The interactions were quali‐ and quantitatively analysed and the data compared with closely related compounds. In vitro experiments were carried out in this work to evaluate the antibacterial activity of 1 against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) and Staphylococcus aureus (6538).

Compound 1 demonstrated a discernible suppression of biofilm formation and quorum sensing of both bacterial strains, indicating that it may be developed as an antibacterial candidate to reduce bacterial resistance and persistence on surfaces across a range of industries.
Methylaluminoxane Reactivities and Anionic Structures: From Small Oligomers to Large Sheets
Authors: Mao Xiaotong , Bharti Munmun , Collins Scott , Linnolahti Mikko
Published: January 2025

The structure and reactivity of small methylaluminoxane (MAO) species (MeAlO)n(Me3Al)m (n=1‐8) have been investigated using DFT (M06‐2X), MP2, and CCSD(T) calculations. This hierarchy of methods reveals that DFT artificially stabilizes structures containing 4‐coordinate oxygen atoms while higher‐level calculations demonstrate a clear preference for structures with 3‐coordinate oxygen and 4‐coordinate aluminum centers. Analysis of ionization pathways shows these neutral MAO molecules form anions through either methide or Me2Al+ abstraction, with the latter mechanism dominant for sheet structures (n=5‐8). Smaller species (n=1‐4, m ≥ n) show minimal reactivity toward either ionization pathway. The resulting anions consistently adopt sheet structures with 3‐coordinate oxygen and 4‐coordinate aluminum at all levels of theory. We introduce a comprehensive stability metric incorporating both ionization energies and neutral precursor stability, which successfully explains the distribution of anions observed in ESI‐MS spectra during Me3Al hydrolysis. Extension of this analysis to larger species, including the recently isolated and characterized sheet (MeAlO)26(Me3Al)9 (Luo et al., Science, 2024, 384, 1424‐1428), reveals unexpected trends in reactivity.
Optimizing Enantiomeric Resolution of Chiral Triazoles in Supercritical Fluid Chromatography
Authors: Frîncul Codruţa , Ghinet Alina , Belei Dalila , Chankvetadze Bezhan , Shova Sergiu , Lipka Emmanuelle , Dascălu Anca‐Elena
Published: January 2025

Chirality plays a crucial role in the pharmacological activity of triazoles, a key scaffold in antifungal agents and various therapeutic applications. This study focuses on optimizing the enantiomeric resolution of chiral triazoles using supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) and 10 different columns, either immobilized or coated, chlorinated or nonchlorinated, cellulose or amylose‐based chiral stationary phases (CSPs). Four novel triazoles and two marketed ones (tebuconazole and hexaconazole) were separated to determine optimal resolution conditions. The best resolution was achieved using chlorinated amylose‐based CSPs across the tested compounds. Optical rotation and X‐ray crystallography were employed to determine the absolute configurations of the purified enantiomers.
The impact of different shaped pin‐fins on the flow and heat transfer in the internal cooling structure of gas turbine blades trailing edges
Authors: Shen Zhibo , Li Yang , Zhong Linjun , Su Wentao
Published: January 2025

In this work, the focus is on investigating the heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics within the internal cooling passages at the trailing edge of gas turbine blades. Heat transport and flow characteristics in a wedge‐shaped channel with a Reynolds number varying from 20,000 to 100,000 are examined numerically. This paper investigates the effect of cylindrical pin fins arranged in various layouts and shapes on the thermal properties of the trailing edge's internal cooling channels. The findings indicate that, regarding the shape of pin fins, the comprehensive heat transfer efficiency ranks from the highest to the lowest efficient as follows: elliptical pin fins, teardrop‐shaped pin fins, circular pin fins, as well as square pin fins. In terms of pin fin layout, circular inclined pin fins have a greater comprehensive heat transfer efficiency than circular pin fins. The comprehensive heat transfer efficiency of circular inclined pin fins is 8.9% higher than that of circular pin fins at a Reynolds number of 100,000. Despite having the highest heat transfer efficiency, square pin fins have the lowest comprehensive heat transfer efficiency when considering their maximum drag coefficient.
Aminocholestane and Aminoandrostane Inhibitors of the SH2 Domain‐Containing Inositol 5’‐Phosphatase (SHIP)
Authors: Pacherille Angela M. , Viernes Dennis R. , Pedicone Chiara , Fernandes Sandra , Dungan Otto M. , Dormann Shawn , Wallach Daniel R. , Sudan Raki , Brooks Robbie , Russo Christopher M. , Howard Kyle T. , Cosgrove Michael S. , Kerr William G. , Chisholm John D.
Published: January 2025

The SH2‐containing inositol phosphatase (SHIP) has become an actively researched therapeutic target for a number of disorders, including Alzheimer's Disease, Graft‐vs‐Host disease, obesity and cancer. Analogs of the aminosteroid SHIP inhibitor 3α‐aminocholestane (3AC) have been synthesized and tested. Analogs with improved water solubility have been identified. Deletion of the C17 alkyl group from the cholestane skeleton improves water solubility, however these compounds inhibit both SHIP1 and SHIP2. Enzyme kinetics imply that these molecules are competitive inhibitors of SHIP, binding at a site near where the substrate binds to the phosphatase. A model of the binding of the inhibitors within the active site of SHIP1 is proposed to explain the structure activity studies. Overall this work provides more water soluble aminosteroid pan‐SHIP1/2 inhibitors that can be used for future studies of SHIP activity.
Innovative Synthesis and Characterization of Nano Hydroxyapatite: A Potential Adsorbent for Methyl Violet 6B Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Telli Mustafa Burak , Kutlu Tugkan , Bozbaş Seda Karayünlü , Şirin Aybuke , Ünügül Tuba
Published: January 2025

In this study, the use of nano Hydroxyapatite (HAp) adsorbent as an adsorbent for the removal of methyl violet 6B (MV 6B) dye from aqueous solution was investigated. Nano adsorbent characterization was carried out by X‐Ray Diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), spot energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyses. The dye removal study was carried out using the classical batch adsorption process. In addition, isotherm, kinetic and thermodynamic adsorption studies were carried out for methyl violet 6B. In adsorption studies, the effects of initial dye concentration (10–40 mg/L), solution pH (2‐8), adsorbent dosage (0.5–2.5 mg) and contact time (15–90 min.) on dye removal were investigated. At dye concentration was 10 mg/L, adsorbent dosage was 1 mg, solution pH was 6, contact time was 30 min and ambient temperature 25 °C, the highest MV 6B removal was 95.86 % and 1200 mg/g adsorption capacity was obtained. As a result of adsorption isotherm and kinetic studies, it was observed that the adsorption values obtained from the models were compatible with Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo‐second order kinetic model. According to the thermodynamic data obtained, it was determined that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic.
Combining Ionic Groups with Methallyl Dichloride Coupling Delivers New Pathways to Ionic/Non‐Ionic Hybrid Detergents
Authors: Behnke Jan‐Simon , Zink Naomi , Schoelzel Carl J. M. , Beimdick Inga , Urner Leonhard Hagen , Wycisk Virginia
Published: January 2025

Strategies for combining ionic and non‐ionic functional groups are important for altering detergent properties and exploring new chemical spaces within the detergentome. Previous synthesis protocols for ionic/non‐ionic hybrid detergents require asymmetric detergent precursors with independently addressable hydroxyl groups that can be decorated with charged groups. However, preparation of ionic/non‐ionic headgroups can be tedious in terms of required synthesis steps and resource consumption. To address this challenge, here we explore if we can fuse ionic and non‐ionic groups directly with methallyl dichloride in the first step of detergent synthesis. While this delivers a simplified synthesis strategy for ionic/non‐ionic headgroups, we find functional groups for which the modification of asymmetric detergent precursors is still the only viable option to obtain related ionic/non‐ionic hybrid detergents. Because previously established debenzylation conditions limit overall yields for asymmetric detergent precursors, here we explore optimization strategies, including silyl protecting groups, ozonolysis‐hydrolysis, and hydrogenolysis. In summary, we establish a new synthesis route to ionic/non‐ionic hybrid detergents, deliver an optimized debenzylation protocol and obtain building blocks for bridged detergent architectures. Our findings facilitate the modular synthesis of hybrid detergents and expand the chemical space of detergents.
Curriculum guidelines for the development of student agency in secondary education: A systematic review
Authors: Schoots‐Snijder A. J. M. , Tigelaar E. H. , Admiraal W. F.
Published: January 2025

To prepare students for lifelong learning, and their role in society, student agency has been foregrounded as an important aim of secondary education. In general, student agency is seen as the will and skill to intentionally transform one's functioning or circumstances. Yet, research on promoting student agency in secondary education is based on a fragmented view of both agency and the curriculum. This study reviews 86 empirical articles to establish guidelines for a curriculum that supports student agency in secondary education. Using Bandura's framework for student agency and Van den Akker's curricular model, this systematic review highlights how various curriculum elements influence student agency. It presents a curriculum model to inform teachers' choices in promoting student agency. Implications for future studies on the interplay between curriculum elements, student agency, learning and citizenship are discussed.
Radio‐tracking urban breeding birds: The importance of native vegetation
Authors: Seress Gábor , Sándor Krisztina , Bókony Veronika , Bukor Boglárka , Hubai Katalin , Liker András
Published: January 2025

As urban areas continue to expand globally, a deeper understanding of the functioning of urban green spaces is crucial for maintaining habitats that effectively support wildlife within our cities. Cities typically harbor a wide variety of nonnative vegetation, providing limited support for insect populations. The resulting scarcity of arthropods has been increasingly linked to adverse effects at higher trophic levels, such as the reduced reproductive success of insectivorous birds in urban environments. However, the responses by which urban breeding birds cope with the challenges of food limitation remain largely unexplored. To address this knowledge gap, in a Central European city, we employed radiotelemetry tracking and real‐time observations on urban‐breeding female great tits' habitat use, combined with detailed plant surveys and video recordings of nestlings' diet. This integrated approach enabled us to establish direct links between great tits' foraging behavior, vegetation preferences, and nestling diet. We found that besides tree canopies, great tits also frequently foraged on the ground and that the availability of bird feeders notably affected birds' habitat use. Foraging great tits generally avoided nonnative plants, particularly broadleaved species. When searching for nestling food, great tits were most time‐efficient on conifers, albeit these trees provided low amounts of caterpillars (a preferred prey type). Great tits were more likely to forage on and deliver nestling food from large native trees and foraged less on and collected fewer prey items from the most abundant tree species. Our results underscore the importance of several factors that may help improve habitat quality for urban insectivorous birds, with preserving large trees and increasing diverse native vegetation being key elements in this endeavor.
Tracing Aquatic Macrophyte Development in Nansi Lake, Northern China's Largest Freshwater Lake: Plant Macrofossils From 1855 to Present
Authors: Zhang Qinghui , Wu Yufei , Yang Liwei , Li Zekun , Li Zonglei , Yang Yuying , Chen Shiyue , Liu Enfeng
Published: January 2025

Examining the impacts of natural and anthropogenic influences on aquatic macrophytes in shallow lakes is crucial for their effective restoration and management. However, there is a lack of direct evidence regarding past species composition or detailed and continuous evidence of recent changes in aquatic macrophyte communities. This study utilized plant macrofossil remains deposited in the sediment, combined with macrophyte surveys from 1983 to 2010, to reconstruct the historical changes in the macrophyte community over approximately 160 years in Lake Weishan, a sub‐lake of Lake Nansi located in the lower Yellow River (Huanghe River) Basin, northern China. Approximately 54.3% of the species historically recorded at the core site were identified through macro‐remains analysis, including five previously unrecorded submerged taxa (Myriophyllum verticillatum, Ranunculus trichophyllus, Chara sp., Nitella sp., and Vallisneria spinulosa) discovered during monitoring surveys. The findings revealed four major shifts in the macrophyte community: A transition from a swampy environment dominated by emergent/wetland plants (ca. 1855–1875) to an expanded water body characterized by a rapid proliferation of submerged macrophytes (ca. 1875–1910), followed by mass disappearance of macrophytes (ca. 1910–2005) and subsequent significant resurgence (after 2005). Multiple factor analysis was employed to investigate the correlation between these shifts and changes in paleolimnological indicators (invertebrates, geochemistry, and grain size), as well as documented records related to hydrology, climate changes, and human activities. The results confirmed our hypothesis that climatically and anthropogenically induced hydrological alterations were likely the primary drivers influencing macrophyte composition alteration and succession dynamics in the lake. This study highlights the potential use of plant macrofossils for reconstructing long‐term changes in macrophyte community components, abundance assessment, and ecosystem health evaluation within the lower Yellow River region. To effectively address persistent challenges such as water diversion and climate change, we propose integrating paleoecological methods into standard ecological monitoring protocols employed for water ecological quality assessment.
Utility of loop diuretics as a marker of risk in clinical trials of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: Analysis from the Swedish Heart Failure Registry
Authors: Chouairi Fouad , Fudim Marat , Savarese Gianluigi , Szabo Barna , Dahlström Ulf , Hage Camilla , Guidetti Federica , Benson Lina , Lund Lars H.
Published: January 2025

Aims

It is common in heart failure (HF) trials, especially in HF with preserved (HFpEF) and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF), to select for increased risk of outcomes (‘enrichment’). We investigated the association between loop diuretic use and common trial outcomes.

Methods and results

Patients in the Swedish HF Registry with HFmrEF and HFpEF were divided into three groups: no loop diuretic use, 1–40 mg furosemide equivalent, and >40 mg. Outcomes were assessed for all patients and high risk for exacerbation patients (previous HF hospitalization [HFH] or N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide ≥300 ng/L). Among 25 986 patients, 41.3% were not taking loop diuretics, 33.5% had 1–40 mg, and 25.2% had >40 mg; 80.7% were at high risk. With increasing diuretic dose, the crude risk of all outcomes increased in both analysis groups. Event rates for cardiovascular death (CVD)/HFH were as follows for total: no loop diuretic: 6, dose 1–40 mg: 17, dose >40 mg: 34 and as follows for high risk: no loop diuretic: 8, dose 1–40 mg: 19, dose >40 mg: 36. Hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD/HFH with no loop diuretic as reference for the total population were: 1–40 mg HR 2.59, >40 mg HR 4.91 (all p < 0.001), and for high risk were: 1–40 mg HR 2.21, >40 mg HR 4.05 (all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In HFpEF and HFmrEF, loop diuretics were used in 58.7% of patients. Use of and higher doses were strongly associated with HF trial‐relevant outcomes. These associations were similar regardless of other risk markers. In HFpEF/HFmrEF trials, requiring loop diuretics as an enrichment factor will reduce the number of eligible patients but increase event rates considerably.