bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exfoliating Ti3AlC2 MAX into Ti3C2Tz MXene: A Powerful Strategy to Enhance High‐Voltage Dielectric Performance of Percolation‐Based PVDF Nanodielectrics
Authors: Windey Ruben , Goossens Nick , Cardous Marion , Soete Jeroen , Vleugels Jozef , Wevers Martine
Published: November 2024

All‐solid‐state polymer dielectrics benefit from a superior voltage window and conveniently circumvent fire hazards associated with liquid electrolytes. Nevertheless, their future competitiveness with alternative energy storage technologies requires a significant enhancement in their energy density. The addition of conductive 2D MXene particles is a promising strategy for creating percolation‐based nanodielectrics with improved dielectric response. However, a full understanding of the nanodielectric production – microstructure – dielectric performance correlations is crucial. Therefore, this research considered Ti3AlC2 MAX phase and Ti3C2Tz MXene as electrically conductive ceramic fillers in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Microstructural characterization of both nanodielectrics demonstrated excellent filler dispersion. Additionally, the exfoliation of Ti3AlC2 brought forth extensive alignment and interface accessibility, synergistically activating a pronounced interfacial polarization and nanocapacitor mechanism that enhanced the energy density of PVDF by a factor 100 to 3.1 Wh kg−1@0.1 Hz at 22.9 vol% MXene filler. The stellar increase in the PVDF energy density occurred for a broad MXene filler loading range owing to the unique 2D morphology of MXenes, whereas the addition of Ti3AlC2 fillers only caused a detrimental reduction. Hence, this study buttressed the importance to exfoliate the parental MAX phase into multi‐layered MXene as a decisive strategy for boosting nanodielectric performance.
Striatal Cholinergic Interneurons Control Physical Nicotine Withdrawal via Muscarinic Receptor Signaling
Authors: Kim Baeksun , Kim Han Ah , Woo Junsung , Lee Hyeon‐Jeong , Kim Tae Kyoo , Min Hophil , Lee C. Justin , Im Heh‐In
Published: November 2024

Striatal cholinergic interneurons (ChIs) provide acetylcholine tone to the striatum and govern motor functions. Nicotine withdrawal elicits physical symptoms that dysregulate motor behavior. Here, the role of striatal ChIs in physical nicotine withdrawal is investigated. Mice under RNAi‐dependent genetic inhibition of striatal ChIs (ChIGI) by suppressing the sodium channel subunit NaV1.1, lessening action potential generation and activity‐dependent acetylcholine release is first generated. ChIGI markedly reduced the somatic signs of nicotine withdrawal without affecting other nicotine‐dependent or striatum‐associated behaviors. Multielectrode array (MEA) recording revealed that ChIGI reversed ex vivo nicotine‐induced alterations in the number of neural population spikes in the dorsal striatum. Notably, the drug repurposing strategy revealed that a clinically‐approved antimuscarinic drug, procyclidine, fully mimicked the therapeutic electrophysiological effects of ChIGI. Furthermore, both ChIGI and procyclidine prevented the nicotine withdrawal‐induced reduction in striatal dopamine release in vivo. Lastly, therapeutic intervention with procyclidine dose‐dependently diminished the physical signs of nicotine withdrawal. The data demonstrated that the striatal ChIs are a critical substrate of physical nicotine withdrawal and that muscarinic antagonism holds therapeutic potential against nicotine withdrawal.
Amoeba‐Inspired Soft Robot for Integrated Tumor/Infection Therapy and Painless Postoperative Drainage
Authors: Zhou Wanyi , Xiong Peizheng , Ge Yiman , He Yuhan , Sun Yue , Zhang Gang , Chen Yifan , Wu Chunhui , Zhang Wei , Liu Yiyao , Yang Hong
Published: November 2024

Tumor recurrence and wound infection are devastating complications of wide excision surgery for melanoma, and deep postoperative wound drainage typically increases pain. An amoeba‐inspired magnetic soft robot (ASR) with switchable dormant and active phases is developed to address the aforementioned challenges. The dormant ASR supports wounds through its solid‐like elasticity and regulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels bidirectionally, promoting healing in infected wounds and eliminating residual tumors. It solves the challenge caused by the contradictory need for ROS scavenging in wound healing and ROS amplification in tumor/infection management. The active ASR removes absorbed wound exudate by crawling out from irregular wounds; interestingly, this crawling motion prevents damage to fragile tissues and alleviates wound pain via “non‐direct friction.” More importantly, ASR switches different states in response to an alternating magnetic field owing to its magnetothermal properties, and this process also exerts synergistic antitumor and bacteriostatic effects. Due to the appropriate mechanical structure (cohesive force) of ASR, the content of magnetic nanoparticles required to drive the ASR is ten‐fold lower than that of conventional magnetic soft robots, enabling in vivo degradation. These outcomes highlight the vantage of the ASR for treating post‐tumor excision wounds and underscore their potential for clinical application.
Coordination‐Induced Magnetism Strategy for Highly Selective and Efficient Uranium Separation
Authors: Zhao Shilei , Feng Tiantian , Zhang Jiacheng , Cao Meng , Feng Lijuan , Ma Yue , Liu Tao , Yuan Yihui , Wang Ning
Published: November 2024

Highly efficient separation of dispersed uranium is important for the sustainable development of nuclear industry, and adsorption is the most recognized approach. However, there are many coexisting interfering metal ions that compete with uranyl ion for the chelating ligands in the adsorbents and lead to low separation selectivity and efficiency. Herein, a coordination‐induced magnetism strategy is presented for the separation of uranium based on the conversion of diamagnetic cyanoferrocene (Fc‐CN) nanocrystals to uranium‐containing magnetic recoverable ferromagnetic aggregates. Different from previous adsorption strategies, this strategy combines the mechanisms of photocatalytic uranium enrichment and chemical uranium adsorption. Under light irradiation, electron of Fe(II) in Fc‐CN is excited and transfers to uranyl ion via the cyano group to form tight coordination bond between N atom in cyano group and uranium. This phenomenon is unique for uranyl ion, and thus, a high uranium removal rate of 97.98% is achieved in simulated nuclear wastewater with the presence of tremendous interfering ions, proving its highly selective and efficient uranium separation performance. The ability to form highly stable magnetic aggregates via photoinduced interaction between Fc‐CN and uranium enriches the understanding on the chemical properties of Fc‐CN and uranium.
Protonation‐Driven Polarization Retention Failure in Nano‐Columnar Lead‐Free Ferroelectric Thin Films
Authors: Sheeraz Muhammad , Ahn Chang Won , Duong Nguyen Xuan , Hwang Soo‐Yoon , Jang Ji‐Soo , Kim Eun‐Young , Kim Yoon Ki , Lee Jaeyeong , Jin Jong Sung , Bae Jong‐Seong , Lee Myang Hwan , Han Hyoung‐Su , Kim Gi‐Yeop , Cho Shinuk , Song Tae Kwon , Yang Sang Mo , Bu Sang Don , Baek Seung‐Hyub , Choi Si‐Young , Kim Ill Won , Kim Tae Heon
Published: November 2024

Understanding microscopic mechanisms of polarization retention characteristics in ferroelectric thin films is of great significance for exploring unusual physical phenomena inaccessible in the bulk counterparts and for realizing thin‐film‐based functional electronic devices. Perovskite (K,Na)NbO3 is an excellent class of lead‐free ferroelectric oxides attracting tremendous interest thanks to its potential applications to nonvolatile memory and eco‐friendly energy harvester/storage. Nonetheless, in‐depth investigation of ferroelectric properties of (K,Na)NbO3 films and the following developments of nano‐devices are limited due to challenging thin‐film fabrication associated with nonstoichiometry by volatile K and Na atoms. Herein, ferroelectric (K,Na)NbO3 films of which the atomic‐level geometrical structures strongly depend on thickness‐dependent strain relaxation are epitaxially grown. Nanopillar crystal structures are identified in fully relaxed (K,Na)NbO3 films to the bulk states representing a continuous reduction of switchable polarization under air environments, that is, polarization retention failures. Protonation by water dissociation is responsible for the humidity‐induced retention loss in nano‐columnar (K,Na)NbO3 films. The protonation‐driven polarization retention failure originates from domain wall pinning by the accumulation of mobile hydrogen ions at charged domain walls for effective screening of polarization‐bound charges. Conceptually, the results will be utilized for rational design to advanced energy materials such as photo‐catalysts enabling ferroelectric tuning of water splitting.
Suitability of Monospecific and Mixed Microalgal Diets for Spat of the Silver‐Lip Pearl Oyster Pinctada maxima
Authors: Sanders Serena , Militz Thane A. , Southgate Paul C.
Published: November 2024

Expansion of pearl production using the silver‐lip pearl oyster, Pinctada maxima, depends on increasing the availability of high‐quality spat from hatcheries and optimization of existing hatchery protocols. Research to develop feeding regimes yielding higher quality spat is seen as a priority. This study evaluated the suitability of three microalgae (Rebecca salina, Chaetoceros simplex and Tisochrysis lutea), fed singly and in combination, for spat of P. maxima and assessed whether mixed diets yielded spat of higher quality. A model‐fitting approach examined the response of spat fed microalgal diets for 35 days. Organic content of spat, as an indicator of quality, as well as metrics relating to spat size and weight were considered. On the basis of organic content, all microalgal diets tested were found suitable and there was no evidence that the mixed diets yielded higher quality spat compared to monospecific diets. Further, any gains in spat size attributed to the mixed microalgal diets were comparatively modest. Contrary to long‐held assumptions, our results indicate that monospecific microalgal diets are not necessarily inferior to mixed microalgal diets for on‐growing spat of P. maxima. They indicate potential to develop simpler and cheaper protocols for culture of P. maxima spat in land‐based systems.
Comparative analysis of RNN versus IIR digital filtering to optimize resilience to dynamic perturbations in pH sensing for vertical farming
Authors: Hinojosa‐Meza Rolando , Rivera Martín Montes , Vacas‐Jacques Paulino , Escalante‐Garcia Nivia , Dena‐Aguilar José Alonso , Sanchez Aldonso Becerra , Olvera‐Gonzalez Ernesto
Published: November 2024

Vertical farming (VF) refers to systems of agriculture where crops are grown in trays stacked vertically by exposing them to artificial light and using sensing technology to improve product quality and yield. In this work, we propose an advanced filtering scheme based on recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and deep learning to enable efficient control strategies for VF applications. We demonstrate that the best RNN model incorporates five neuron layers, with the first and second containing 90 long short‐term memory neurons. The third layer implements one gated recurrent units neuron. The fourth segment incorporates one RNN network, while the output layer is designed by using a single neuron exhibiting a rectified linear activation function. By utilizing this RNN digital filter, we introduce two variations: (1) a scaled RNN model to tune the filter to the signal of interest, and (2) a moving average filter to eliminate harmonic oscillations of the output waveforms. The RNN models are contrasted with conventional digital Butterworth, Chebyshev I, Chebyshev II, and elliptic infinite impulse response (IIR) configurations. The RNN digital filtering schemes avoid introducing unwanted oscillations, which makes them more suitable for VF than their IIR counterparts. Finally, by utilizing the advanced features of scaling of the RNN model, we demonstrate that the RNN digital filter can be pH selective, as opposed to conventional IIR filters.
Kinetics of Cd adsorption by biochar, activated carbon, and zeolite in some calcareous soils
Authors: Keyhaninejad Reza , Amirinejad Aliashraf , Fatemi Akram
Published: November 2024

Different methods have developed to reduce the risks of potentially toxic elements in contaminated soils. Among them, adsorption is one of the most important and effective strategies. In this research, kinetics of Cd adsorption by biochar, activated carbon, and zeolite in some calcareous soils were investigated. A factorial experiment was conducted based on a completely randomized design with three replications. The factors included three types of adsorbents (sunflower's biochar, activated carbon, and zeolite), four levels of Cd (0, 20, 50, and 100 mg/L as Cd (NO3)2), and three soil samples, differing in their cation exchange capacity, soil organic matter, and calcium carbonate equivalent. Batch experiments were carried out to evaluate Cd adsorption isotherms and kinetic models. Furthermore, the effect of adsorbent dosage, contact time, and initial pH on the adsorption efficiency was examined. Optimizing studies revealed that the best pH for Cd adsorption was 5, while the optimal equilibrium time was achieved at 24 h. The results showed that the Freundlich model fitted to the experimental data slightly better than the Langmuir model. Moreover, the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model better described the kinetic behavior of Cd adsorption for the investigated adsorbents. The maximum Cd removal efficiency (99%) belonged to soil No. 2 with biochar. Lastly, it was concluded that sunflower biochar, a cheap and cost‐effective adsorbent, had high efficiency in Cd adsorption in calcareous soils.
LAMP‐MS for Locus‐Specific Visual Quantification of DNA 5 mC and RNA m6A Using Ultra‐Low Input
Authors: Xie Runyu , Yang Xiaotong , He Weizhi , Luo Zhongguang , Li Wenshuai , Xu Chu , Cui Xiaolong , Zhang Wei , Wei Ning , Wang Xiaolan , Shi Yixiang , He Chuan , Liu Jie , Hu Lulu
Published: November 2024

Enhancing the effectiveness of utilizing circulating cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) for disease screening remains a challenge, necessitating improved sensitivity, specificity, cost‐efficiency, and patient adherence. We present here LAMP‐MS, an innovative technology that integrates linear amplification with single‐base quantitative nucleic acid mass spectrometry on silicon chips. This approach overcomes several limitations in utilizing cfDNA 5‐methylcytosine (5 mC) status for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. LAMP‐MS enables unbiased amplification of as little as 1 ng of cfDNA, site‐specifically quantify methylation levels of multiple 5 mC sites, thereby facilitating cost‐effective, high‐resolution quantitative detection of cfDNA methylation markers. We have validated the accuracy of DNA methylation determination using DNA probes and cfDNA from patient plasma samples, confirmed by mass spectrometric peak areas. Additionally, we have further shown this Mass Array technology could be expanded to also quantify RNA m6A modification sites. Combining the ability to work with ultra‐low input materials and a visually interpretable output, LAMP‐MS stands out as a promising method for real‐world applications in clinics and laboratories for nucleic acid methylation detection and quantification.
Planar Pentacoordinate Halogens
Authors: Cui Li‐juan , Miao Lin‐hong , Orozco‐Ic Mesías , Li Lu , Pan Sudip , Merino Gabriel , Cui Zhong‐hua
Published: November 2024

Planar hypercoordinate motifs represent an intriguing frontier in chemistry, challenging traditional bonding norms. As electronegativity of the central atom increases, achieving planar hypercoordination becomes more difficult due to restricted delocalization, making the design of planar hypercoordinate halogens particularly puzzling. Here, we conduct an extensive computational survey of LinXn+1− (n=4, 5, 6; X=F, Cl, Br, I) clusters, revealing a starlike D5h‐symmetry global minimum in Li5X6− (X=F, Cl, Br) with a planar pentacoordinate halogen (ppX), where X− is located at the center of Li5X5 crown. The clusters are stabilized predominantly through electrostatic interactions between X− and Li5X5, complemented by weak covalent bonding from dative interaction. Due to the weak orbital overlap, ppX clusters exhibit localized diatropic ring currents around X and Li.
I3−‐Mediated Oxygen Evolution Activities to Boost Rechargeable Zinc‐Air Battery Performance with Low Charging Voltage and Long Cycling Life
Authors: Zou Xiaohong , Lu Qian , Wu Lizhen , Zhang Kouer , Tang Mingcong , Xie Haijiao , Zhang Xiao , Shao Zongping , An Liang
Published: November 2024

An effective strategy to facilitate oxygen redox chemistry in metal‐air batteries is to introduce a redox mediator into the liquid electrolyte. The rational utilization of redox mediators to accelerate the charging kinetics while ensuring the long lifetime of alkaline Zn‐air batteries is challenging. Here, we apply commercial acetylene black catalysts to achieve an I3−‐mediated Zn‐air battery by using ZnI2 additives that provide I3− to accelerate the cathodic redox chemistry and regulate the uniform deposition of Zn2+ on the anode. The Zn‐air battery performs an ultra‐long cycle life of over 600 h at 5 mA cm−2 with a final charge voltage of 1.87 V. We demonstrate that I− mainly generates I3− on the surface of carbon catalysts during the electrochemically charging process, which can further chemically react with OH− to generate oxygen and further revert to I−, thus obtaining a stable electrochemical system. This work offers a strategy to simultaneously improve the cycling life and reduce the charging voltage of Zn‐air batteries through redox mediator methods.
Simultaneous Suppression of Multilayer Ion Migration via Molecular Complexation Strategy toward High‐Performance Regular Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Qian , Yang Yingying , He Dongmei , Yang Ke , Yu Yue , Liu Xinxing , Zhang Jiajia , Shai Xuxia , Wang Jinsong , Yi Jianhong , Li Meicheng , Chen Jiangzhao
Published: November 2024

The migration and diffusion of Li+, I− and Ag impedes the realization of long‐term operationally stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, we report a multifunctional and universal molecular complexation strategy to simultaneously stabilize hole transport layer (HTL), perovskite layer and Ag electrode by the suppression of Li+, I− and Ag migration via directly incorporating bis(2,4,6‐trichlorophenyl) oxalate (TCPO) into HTL. Meanwhile, TCPO co‐doping results in enhanced hole mobility of HTL, advantageous energy band alignment and mitigated interfacial defects, thereby leading to facilitated hole extraction and minimized nonradiative recombination losses. TCPO‐doped regular device achieves a peak power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.68 % (certified 25.59 %). The unencapsulated TCPO doped devices maintain over 90 % of their initial efficiencies after 730 h of continuous operation under one sun illumination, 2800 h of storage at 30 % relative humidity, and 1200 h of exposure to 65 °C, which represents one of the best stabilities reported for regular PSCs. This work provides a new approach to enhance the PCE and long‐term stability of PSCs by host–guest complexation strategy via rational design of multifunctional ligand molecules.
UV ozone‐modified Fe3O4‐PDMS film for solvent‐driven soft actuators with controlled and multi‐stable deformations
Authors: Xu Haoran , Li Congwei , Lei Ming , Kang Xin , Zeng Shaofeng , Lin Junjie , Yang Kaihuai , Weng Mingcen , Guo Qiaohang
Published: November 2024

In recent years, solvent‐driven actuators have been capable of controlling deformations in response to external stimuli. However, a magnetic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite film with magnetic properties is traditionally developed using the micro‐electro‐mechanical system process. Although it has general actuation deformation, the composite film suffers from the problems of actuation and control. Here, this is done by co‐mixing PDMS and ferrosoferric oxide (Fe3O4) then waiting for curing and then undergoing ultraviolet‐ozone (UVO) surface treatment. By adjusting the time and orientation of the UVO treatment, a series of solvent‐driven actuators with multiform steady‐state structures (e.g., mono/bistable helix) is proposed. In addition, the deformation of the composite film under different geometrical parameters and surface constraints was visually predicted by incorporating finite element analysis methods. In addition, the controlled deformations of the composite film (such as box‐like, folded, and so on) are carried out by self‐morphing design. Finally, four bionic applications are also proposed to demonstrate the practical use of soft actuators based on Fe3O4‐PDMS films in bionic robots. This work provides new strategies for designing and fabricating programmable and controllable soft actuators and lays the foundation for a wide range of smart material applications.
FoxO1 Deficiency in Monocytic Myeloid‐Derived Suppressor Cells Exacerbates B Cell Dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Tan Liping , Kong Wei , Zhou Kangxing , Wang Shuangan , Liang Jun , Hou Yayi , Dou Huan
Published: November 2024

Objective

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) contribute to the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), in part due to promoting the survival of plasma cells. FoxO1 expression in monocytic MDSCs (M‐MDSCs) exhibits a negative correlation with the SLE Disease Activity Index score. This study aimed to investigate the hypothesis that M‐MDSC–specific FoxO1 deficiency enhances aberrant B cell function in aggressive SLE.

Methods

We used GEO data sets and clinical cohorts to verify the clinical significance of FoxO1 expression and circulating M‐MDSCs. Using Cre‐LoxP technology, we generated myeloid FoxO1 deficiency mice (mFoxO1−/−) to establish murine lupus–prone models. The transcriptional stage was assessed by integrating chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)–sequencing with transcriptomic analysis, luciferase reporter assay, and ChIP–quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, RNA sequencing, and CRISPR‐dCas9 were used to identify N6‐adenosine methylation (m6A) modification. In vitro B cell coculture experiments, capmatinib intragastric administration, m6A‐modulated MDSCs adoptive transfer, and sample validation of patients with SLE were performed to determine the role of FoxO1 on M‐MDSCs dysregulation during B cell autoreacted with SLE.

Results

We present evidence that low FoxO1 is predominantly expressed in M‐MDSCs in both patients with SLE and lupus mice, and mice with myeloid FoxO1 deficiency (mFoxO1−/−) are more prone to B cell dysfunction. Mechanically, FoxO1 inhibits mesenchymal‐epithelial transition factor protein (Met) transcription by binding to the promoter region. M‐MDSCs FoxO1 deficiency blocks the Met/cyclooxygenase2/prostaglandin E2 secretion pathway, promoting B cell proliferation and hyperactivation. The Met antagonist capmatinib effectively mitigates lupus exacerbation. Furthermore, alkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) targeting catalyzes m6A modification on FoxO1 messenger RNA in coding sequences and 3' untranslated regions. The up‐regulation of FoxO1 mediated by ALKBH5 overexpression in M‐MDSCs improves lupus progression. Finally, these correlations were confirmed in untreated patients with SLE.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that effective inhibition of B cells mediated by the ALKBH5/FoxO1/Met axis in M‐MDSCs could offer a novel therapeutic approach to manage SLE.

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Features and Differences in Core Symptom Clusters in Home‐Based Hospice Patients With Advanced Cancer: A Network Analysis
Authors: Wei Yitao , Cheng Wan , Lu Yuanfeng , Zhu Zheng , Xu Guiru , Wu Hong , Lin Shaowei , Xiao Huimin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Patients with terminal‐stage cancer frequently experience multiple symptoms simultaneously. Little is known about how core symptom clusters differ in advanced‐cancer patients with different survival expectancies receiving hospice care. To identify the core symptom clusters of hospice‐care cancer patients with different survival expectancies and compare the features of their symptom networks.

Methods

In this retrospective study, secondary data analysis was conducted. Records of 6946 patients with advanced cancer who received home‐based hospice care service in a hospice center from April 2001 to December 2020 were collected and analyzed using network analysis.

Results

This analysis included 6946 patients with advanced cancer receiving hospice care. In patients with survival expectancies of 0–6 months, loss of appetite was identified as the core symptom (rs = 4.03, rb = 5.21, rc = 2.63), and five symptom clusters were identified. Malnutrition was the core symptom in patients with survival expectancies of 6–12 months (rs = 2.83, rb = 2.43, rc = 0.93), and nine symptom clusters were identified. Wasting syndrome was the core symptom cluster in two groups. The network density of symptoms in patients with < 6 months of survival expectancy (91.99) was higher than in patients with 6–12 months (28.39).

Conclusions

Nutrition impact symptoms are the core symptoms for home‐hospice care cancer patients with a survival period of 1 year or below. Moreover, hospice cancer patients with short survival expectancies have greater inter‐symptom impact.
Patient‐Initiated Nationwide Survey on Testing for Actionable Oncogenic Drivers in Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer in Japan
Authors: Ikeda Satoshi , Hasegawa Kazuo , Kachi Kenta , Yanagisawa Akihiro , Kawakami Sachiko , Hamasaki Shinsuke , Watanabe Sachiko , Yoshikawa Aki , Takahama Takayuki , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: November 2024

Background

Previous reports indicated still low implementation rates of multigene testing for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in Japan.

Methods

This is a retrospective study launched at the initiative of lung cancer patients. Patients with stage IV NSCLC from January 2019 to December 2022 were investigated for testing of 8 actionable oncogenic drivers with targeted therapies available as of 2022.

Results

A total of 15,719 patients were included. Between 2019 and 2022, the percentage of patients who were not tested for any actionable oncogenic drivers remained the same, ranging from 21.5% to 33.1%. However, since late 2021, the percentage of patients tested for five or more actionable oncogenic drivers has increased. Across hospital categories and regions, the number of actionable oncogenic drivers tested was similar.

Conclusions

This patient‐initiated national survey in Japan reveals the recent nationwide increase in testing rates for actionable oncogenic drivers in Advanced NSCLC.
Melanoma Metabolism: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications in Cutaneous Oncology
Authors: Tan Isabella J. , Parikh Aarushi K. , Cohen Bernard A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Melanoma, a highly aggressive skin cancer, is characterized by rapid progression and a high metastatic potential, presenting significant challenges in clinical oncology. A critical aspect of melanoma biology is its metabolic reprogramming, which supports tumor growth, survival, and therapeutic resistance.

Objective

This review aims to explore the key molecular mechanisms driving metabolic alterations in melanoma and their implications for developing therapeutic strategies.

Methods

A Pubmed search was conducted to analyze literature discussing key mechanisms of the Warburg effect, mitochondrial dysfunction, enhanced lipid metabolism, epigenetic modifications, and the tumor microenvironment.

Results

Metabolic reprogramming supports melanoma growth, proliferation, and survival. Understanding these complex metabolic dynamics provides valuable insights for developing targeted therapeutic strategies.

Conclusion

Potential therapeutic interventions aimed at disrupting melanoma metabolism highlight the promise of precision medicine in improving treatment outcomes in cutaneous oncology. By targeting metabolic vulnerabilities, novel treatment approaches could significantly enhance the clinical management and prognosis of melanoma.
Tissue‐Resident Macrophages in Cancer: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Chi Jianhua , Gao Qinglei , Liu Dan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Macrophages are essential in maintaining homeostasis, combating infections, and influencing the process of various diseases, including cancer. Macrophages originate from diverse lineages: Notably, tissue‐resident macrophages (TRMs) differ from hematopoietic stem cells and circulating monocyte‐derived macrophages based on genetics, development, and function. Therefore, understanding the recruited and TRM populations is crucial for investigating disease processes.

Methods

By searching literature databses, we summarized recent relevant studies. Research has shown that tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) of distinct origins accumulate in tumor microenvironment (TME), with TRM‐derived TAMs closely resembling gene signatures of normal TRMs.

Results

Recent studies have revealed that TRMs play a crucial role in cancer progression. However, organ‐specific effects complicate TRM investigations. Nonetheless, the precise involvement of TRMs in tumors is unclear. This review explores the multifaceted roles of TRMs in cancer, presenting insights into their origins, proliferation, the latest research methodologies, their impact across various tumor sites, their potential and strategies as therapeutic targets, interactions with other cells within the TME, and the internal heterogeneity of TRMs.

Conclusions

We believe that a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted roles of TRMs will pave the way for targeted TRM therapies in the treatment of cancer.
Geriatric Oral Health and Quality of Life Among the Indigenous Irula Tribes of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Sukumar Margret Beaula Alocious , Joseph Alex , Alhalabi Baidaa
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This study aims to assess the oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) among the Irula tribes and to know the factors influencing quality of life among the elderly irula tribes of Tamil Nadu.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in the Northern district of Tamil Nadu, including 486 Irula individuals aged 65 and above. Participants were selected using a multistage sampling method. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, including the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) to evaluate OHRQoL. The study tool covered demographics, medical history, and oral health issues. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, with logistic regression applied to account for confounders.

Results

The sample primarily consisted of individuals aged 65–69 years (55.6%), with a predominance of females (76.3%). The majority were Hindu (94.9%) and lived in nuclear families (88.3%). Educational levels were low, with 66.5% being illiterate. Most participants were agricultural laborers (64.6%) and had low monthly incomes. GOHAI results revealed that many respondents faced significant oral health challenges, including difficulties with eating, speaking, and discomfort. Multivariate analysis showed that educational level significantly affected OHRQoL, with higher education correlating with better quality of life. Arthritis was associated with poorer OHRQoL, while other health conditions did not show significant impacts.

Conclusion

The study highlights severe oral health issues among the Irula community, with significant physical and psychological impacts. Educational attainment plays a crucial role in OHRQoL, while arthritis notably affects quality of life. The findings emphasize the need for targeted oral health interventions and increased awareness in tribal communities to improve overall health outcomes. Further research in larger populations is necessary to comprehensively understand and address geriatric oral health needs.
Enhanced High‐Gain Switched Capacitor DC–DC Converter Optimizing Renewable Energy Integration
Authors: Gaurav  , Jayaram Nakka , Halder Sukanta , Kumar Uppalapati Sudheer , Patel Mitesh Kumar Bharat bhai
Published: November 2024

A novel high‐gain switched capacitor (HGSC) DC–DC converter for carbon neutral energy applications is presented in the scientific paper. It consists of two MOSFET switches, and utilization of a simultaneous switching approach for the switches enables simplified control. The switched capacitor (SC) technique is utilized to extract high gain from the proposed HGSC topology; the basic idea is periodic charging and discharging of the capacitor. The proposed HGSC topology operational mode is carried out in Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM) along with the steady‐state analysis, and different switching stages are discussed in detail. Then, an analysis is carried out to demonstrate the proposed HGSC converter's special feature with other high‐gain converters. An averaging state‐space technique is used to determine the suggested converter's dynamics performance, and a small signal analysis is used to verify its stability. Furthermore, the HGSC topology is thoroughly analyzed in terms of power losses. For comparing the practical efficiency of the designed converter, nonidealities voltage gain is derived. The maximum efficiency of 96.7% is obtained at 150 W output power with the help of the dSPACE 1104 controller. Whenever the HGSC converter is fed with an input voltage supply of 20 V. It generates output voltages between 140 and 240 V. Extensive experimental investigation is carried out on a 200 W laboratory prototype model to verify the practicability and feasibility of HGSC DC–DC converter topology.
Differences in the Effects of Three Water Elements on Vegetation in Different Climatic Regions: Insights From the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Jin Xiaohui , Fan Yumiao , Hu Yawei , Duan Hao , Yan Long , Liu Chang
Published: November 2024

The effects of water on vegetation have always been a concern. It is an important support as well as a major limiting factor with respect to vegetation growth. By analysing the spatiotemporal changes and correlations between precipitation (PRE), soil moisture (SM), vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in the Yellow River Basin, we explored the different effects of three water elements on vegetation in different climatic regions. Our findings reveal the following: (1) NDVI and the three water elements report an increasing trend in the Yellow River Basin, with NDVI increasing most significantly. 92.1% of the Yellow River Basin showed an increase in NDVI. (2) Vegetation in the Yellow River Basin was most positively affected by PRE, followed by SM and VPD. PRE mainly affected the natural vegetation on both sides of the boundary between the arid and semi‐arid regions and the semi‐humid regions. SM mainly affected the natural vegetation in the arid and semi‐arid regions, whereas VPD mainly affected the crops in the irrigation areas, and the irrigation areas in arid regions were affected the most. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between water elements and vegetation.
The impact of exposure to green or bluespace on dietary intake and food choices among adults—A systematic literature review
Authors: Gilbourne Claire A. , Scarry Alan , Tierney Audrey C. , O’Connor Eibhlís M.
Published: November 2024

Extensive research has shown that spending time in natural greenspaces has a positive impact on health. However, there is limited evidence regarding potential factors that may influence these effects. This review aimed to assess the strength of the evidence and potential impact of exposure to green and bluespaces on dietary outcomes in adults. Inclusion criteria for the review were based on the PICO criteria. Following PRISMA guidelines, an initial search of five databases was conducted: CINAHL, GreenFILE, AMED, Medline, and PubMed, accessed on 14th June 2021 and augmented by an updated rerun in January 2024. All studies used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross‐Sectional Studies for quality assessment. Due to heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was conducted to evaluate the relationships between the included studies. Four observational studies that reported diet‐related outcomes were included in the review, and participants within the studies ranged from 554 to >350,000 participants. Other health outcomes, including physical activity and obesity, were also reported. Two studies found that dietary patterns were not correlated with exposure to greenspace. Due to the small number of articles retrieved and the paucity of evidence, the findings must be interpreted cautiously. In conclusion, further research is essential to clarify the intricate mechanisms involved in greenspace‐related health benefits. Additionally, investigating the specific greenspace attributes influencing adult dietary intake and food choices is warranted. When devising public health interventions, it is crucial to account for the substantial health advantages associated with various socioeconomic groups.
A bottom‐up approach identifies the antipsychotic and antineoplastic trifluoperazine and the ribose derivative deoxytubercidin as novel microglial phagocytosis inhibitors
Authors: Rodriguez‐Iglesias Noelia , Paris Iñaki , Valero Jorge , Cañas‐Zabala Lorena , Carretero Alejandro , Hatje Klas , Zhang Jitao David , Patsch Christoph , Britschgi Markus , Gutbier Simon , Sierra Amanda
Published: November 2024

Phagocytosis is an indispensable function of microglia, the brain professional phagocytes. Microglia is particularly efficient phagocytosing cells that undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis) in physiological conditions. However, mounting evidence suggests microglial phagocytosis dysfunction in multiple brain disorders. These observations prompted us to search for phagocytosis modulators (enhancers or inhibitors) with therapeutic potential. We used a bottom‐up strategy that consisted on the identification of phagocytosis modulators using phenotypic high throughput screenings (HTSs) in cell culture and validation in organotypic cultures and in vivo. We performed two complementary HTS campagnes: at Achucarro, we used primary cultures of mouse microglia and compounds of the Prestwick Chemical Library; at Roche, we used human iPSC derived macrophage‐like cells and a proprietary chemo‐genomic library with 2200 compounds with known mechanism‐of‐action. Next, we validated the more robust compounds using hippocampal organotypic cultures and identified two phagocytosis inhibitors: trifluoperazine, a dopaminergic and adrenergic antagonist used as an antipsychotic and antineoplastic; and deoxytubercidin, a ribose derivative. Finally, we tested whether these compounds were able to modulate phagocytosis of apoptotic newborn cells in the adult hippocampal neurogenic niche in vivo by administering them into the mouse hippocampus using osmotic minipumps. We confirmed that both trifluoperazine and deoxytubercidin have anti‐phagocytic activity in vivo, and validated our bottom‐up strategy to identify novel phagocytosis modulators. These results show that chemical libraries with annotated mechanism of action are an starting point for the pharmacological modulation of microglia in drug discovery projects aiming at the therapeutic manipulation of phagocytosis in brain diseases.
Advantages of regional development—A study on poverty alleviation in contiguous destitute areas
Authors: Hongyu Du
Published: November 2024

The 2011–2020 period is the final stage of poverty alleviation in China, which emphasizes regional development. Using county‐level panel data from 2006 to 2015, we explore the impact of regional poverty alleviation policy on economic growth of contiguous destitute areas (CDAs) in China. The results show that since 2012, economy in CDAs has developed rapidly, that GDP per capita has significantly improved by 5.4% and that county GDP has significantly improved by 6.6%. The regional strategy enhances construction of infrastructure and ecological projects, and gives full play to exert synergy effect, which doubles economic growth. The impact of economic growth is heterogeneous in different regional scales, regional inequities, geographic locations, and population sizes, and lasting even if counties are lifted out of poverty. Our findings recommend regional collaboration and highlight the importance of ecological protection in poverty alleviation.
Study of Risk Factors and Image Findings of Isolated Abdominal Incidentally Detected Aortic Dissection
Authors: Tsubouchi Hiromasa , Onishi Hidenori , Maeno Koji , Nakagaichi Masaya , Tsukushi Ikue , Kitano Youichi , Makino Yoshitaka , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Terasawa Hidekazu , Kabuto Hiroko , Misawa Toshihiro , Sanada Taku , Hisada Azusa , Notsumata Kazuo , Okafuji Kazuhiro , Yamamura Osamu
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Isolated abdominal aortic dissection (IAAD) has been reported to account for 1.1%–4.1% of all aortic dissections. If detected late, it is associated with a risk of aortic rupture. We investigated the risk factors and characteristic imaging findings of incidentally discovered IAAD using abdominal ultrasonography (AUS) during health check‐up and hereby report our findings.

Methods

The study sample included 41 patients with abdominal aortic abnormalities identified by AUS performed during a health check‐up at our hospital and who were diagnosed with IAAD by contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT); in addition, 205 patients were included in the nonevent group. Furthermore, risk factors and characteristic imaging findings of IAAD were examined retrospectively.

Results

Compared with the nonevent group, smoking and fatty liver were observed significantly more frequently in the IAAD group. Ultrasound findings indicated an intimal flap in 35 cases (85.4%), whereas CT scan revealed displacement of intimal calcifications in 32 cases (78.0%).

Conclusion

Compared with the nonevent group, there were significantly more cases of fatty liver and smoking habits in the IAAD group. In older patients with risk factors for fatty liver and smoking habits, if IAAD is suspected, it is important to monitor the abdominal aorta using ultrasonography during health check‐ups.
Natural Course of the Maxillary Sinus Fungus Ball: Results From Seoul National University Hospital Healthcare Center
Authors: Han Seung Cheol , Bae Junhyung , Park Jin‐A , Lee Ji Ye , Anatriera Sumarsono Raden A. , Rhee Chae‐Seo , Shim Ye Ji , Han Doo Hee
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The frequency of paranasal sinus fungus balls, a common form of rhinosinusitis, has increased. Although treatment and causative factors have been well investigated, the evolving nature of the fungal balls remains unelucidated. This study aimed to investigate and analyze the changing patterns of fungus balls.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data from 35 participants selected from a pool of 41,497 patients who underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at a large health care center. The extent of the fungus balls was evaluated by grading them from 1 to 4 based on the MR images. The changing process of the fungus ball was analyzed based on demographics, interval between the MRI scans, comorbidities, and specific dental interventions.

Results

The fungus ball grades showed significant progression over time. In the analysis of 29 sinuses with initially low‐grade (grades 0, 1, and 2) fungus balls, 15 sinuses showed a grade change <2 (no/minimal change group), whereas 14 sinuses showed grade changes of ≥2 (substantial change group). Intergroup comparison showed that only the interval between the initial and final MRI scans differed significantly (p = 0.008). However, factors, such as age, sex, comorbidities, and history of dental procedures, did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusion

This study shows the extent of change in fungus balls, primarily over time. These results offer critical insights into the natural course and progression of the maxillary sinus fungus ball.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2024
Field monitoring of copepodamides using a new application for solid phase adsorption toxin tracking
Authors: Trapp Aubrey , Selander Erik , Peacock Melissa , Kudela Raphael M.
Published: November 2024

Chemical signaling is ubiquitous in the marine environment. Plankton rely on chemical signals to find mates, hunt prey, and respond to threats, and these small‐scale interactions can propagate into community‐wide cascades and large‐scale ecological changes. The chemical signaling exchange in the open ocean is poorly understood, and fundamental information about concentrations and spatiotemporal variability is lacking. Passive sampling has been used to monitor a wide range of dissolved chemicals, including anthropogenic pollutants and harmful algal toxins, but it is not generally applied to the study of marine chemical ecology. Here we test the compatibility of two resins commonly used for passive sampling via solid phase adsorption toxin tracking (SPATT), Diaion® HP20 and Sepabeads® SP207, with copepodamides, a group of polar lipid signaling compounds produced by copepods. We developed extraction and analysis methods that align with current SPATT practices for algal toxins and show the first measurements of copepodamides from Monterey Bay in California. In lab trials, mean copepodamide recovery from HP20 resin was approximately 240% greater than SP207. In addition, copepodamides were found to have a mean half‐life of 34 h in seawater. Adsorption to HP20 stabilized dissolved copepodamides, increasing the mean recovery after 168 h from 0.62% in seawater to 65.2% from SPATT. Results suggest that SPATT is a sensitive and effective tool for obtaining integrated copepodamide concentrations, spotlighting a novel method to include information from copepod mesozooplankton in time series and field studies.
Extremal interpolation of convex scattered data in ℝ3 by smooth edge convex minimum L∞‐norm networks: Characterization and solution
Authors: Vlachkova Krassimira
Published: November 2024

We consider the extremal problem of interpolation of convex scattered data in
by smooth edge convex curve networks with minimal
‐norm of the second derivative for
. The problem for
was set and solved by Andersson et al. (1995). Vlachkova (2019) extended the results of Andersson et al. (1995) and solved the problem for
. The minimum edge convex
‐norm network for
is obtained from the solution to a system of nonlinear equations with coefficients determined by the data. The solution in the case
is unique for strictly convex data. The corresponding extremal problem for
remained open. The case
is of particular interest in the context of applications since it has a solution which is a smooth curve network consisting of quadratic splines, that is, a smooth curve network of the lowest possible computational complexity. Here, we show that the extremal interpolation problem for
always has a solution. We give a characterization of this solution. We show that a solution to the problem for
can be found by solving a system of nonlinear equations in the case where it exists.
Industrial‐grade 2‐μm ultrafast fiber laser CPA for silicon processing
Authors: Gaida Christian , Heuermann Tobias , Breitkopf Sven , Eidam Tino , Limpert Jens
Published: November 2024

A novel compact laser utilizing thulium‐based fiber chirped‐pulse amplification (CPA) technology has been developed to enable essential tasks such as microwelding or the precision cutting of filaments with semiconductors such as silicon. At a central wavelength of 2 μm, the activeTwo‐15 provides pulse energies exceeding 100 μJ and an average power output surpassing 15 W, and can be seamlessly integrated into systems for materials processing.