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Many ternary mixtures composed of saturated and unsaturated lipids with cholesterol (Chol) exhibit a region of coexistence between liquid-disordered (Ld) and liquid-ordered (Lo) domains, bearing some similarities to lipid rafts in biological membranes. However, biological rafts also contain many proteins that interact with the lipids and modify the distribution of lipids. Here, we extend a previously published lattice model of ternary DPPC/DOPC/Chol mixtures by introducing a small amount of small proteins (peptides). We use Monte Carlo simulations to explore the mixing phase behavior of the components as a function of the interaction parameter representing the affinity between the proteins and the saturated DPPC chains and for different mixture compositions. At moderate fractions of DPPC, the system is in a two-phase Ld + Lo coexistence, and the proteins exhibit a simple partition behavior between the phases that depends on the protein–lipid affinity parameter. At low DPPC compositions, the mixture is in Ld phase with local nanoscopic ordered domains. The addition of proteins with sufficiently strong attraction to the saturated lipids can induce the separation of a distinct Lo large domain with tightly packed gel-like clusters of proteins and saturated lipids. Consistent with the theory of phase transitions, we observe that the domain sizes grow when the mixture composition is in the vicinity of the critical point. Our simulations show that the addition of a small amount of proteins to such mixtures can cause their size to grow even further and lead to the formation of metastable dynamic Lo domains with sizes comparable to biological rafts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functionalization of perovskite nanocrystal surfaces with thiocyanate anions presents a transformative approach to enhancing stability and photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) through surface defect passivation. This study investigates the role of thiocyanate ligands in modifying the optoelectronic properties of CsPbBr3 nanocrystals. We employed ultrafast two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy to investigate the nature of the dynamic interaction of thiocyanate ligands with nanocrystal surfaces, providing insights into the mechanisms underlying the observed increase in PLQY and stability. Our analysis reveals that the thiocyanate ligands efficiently passivate the surface defects, thereby enhancing the PLQY and the stability of the treated nanocrystals. The spectroscopic evidence supports a model where thiocyanate binds to under-coordinated lead atoms, contributing to a stable nanocrystal surface with enhanced optoelectronic performance. This ligand-induced passivation mechanism advances our understanding of surface chemistry's role in optimizing nanomaterials for solar cell and LED applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microscopic evolution at the functional biomolecular level is an ongoing process. Leveraging functional and high-throughput assays, along with computational data mining, has led to a remarkable expansion of our understanding of multifunctional protein (and gene) families over the past few decades. Various molecular and intermolecular mechanisms are now known that collectively meet the cumulative multifunctional demands in higher organisms along an evolutionary path. This multitasking ability is attributed to a certain degree of intrinsic or adapted flexibility at the structure–function level. Evolutionary diversification of structure–function relationships in proteins highlights the functional importance of intrinsically disordered proteins/regions (IDPs/IDRs) which are highly dynamic biological soft matter. Multifunctionality is favorably supported by the fluid-like shapes of IDPs/IDRs, enabling them to undergo disorder-to-order transitions upon binding to different molecular partners. Other new malleable members of the protein superfamily, such as those involved in fold-switching, also undergo structural transitions. This new insight diverges from all traditional notions of functional singularity in enzyme classes and emphasizes a far more complex, multi-layered diversification of protein functionality. However, a thorough review in this line, focusing on flexibility and function-driven structural transitions related to evolved multifunctionality in proteins, is currently missing. This review attempts to address this gap while broadening the scope of multifunctionality beyond single protein sequences. It argues that protein intrinsic disorder is likely the most striking mechanism for expressing multifunctionality in proteins. A phenomenological analogy has also been drawn to illustrate the increasingly complex nature of modern digital life, driven by the need for multitasking, particularly involving media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pandemic crisis and associated lockdown have led to diminution in demand on one hand and different types of supply side bottlenecks on the other. The article makes a theoretical attempt to assess macroeconomic dimensions of COVID-19 along with consequences of such crisis using a two-sector dependent economy model. In particular, the article investigates the implications of unanticipated adverse shock such as COVID-19 and wage cut for the dynamic interaction of Tobin's q, price of non-traded goods and the exchange rate and sectoral composition of output and level of employment. The effects of expansionary fiscal policy and increase in risk premium are also highlighted as the part of concluding remarks. The results in this article critically depend on the difference in the speeds of adjustments in the Tobin's q, exchange rate and price of non-traded goods and different types of cross effects emanating from changes in interconnected macroeconomic variables. While the pandemic crisis leads to contraction of all the sectors and decrease in level of employment in the short-run with uncertain medium-run implications, the wage cut somewhat arrests the fall in employment. JEL Codes: E24, F41, G12 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hofmeister series characterizes the ability of salt anions to precipitate polyampholytes/proteins. However, the variation of protein size in the bulk solution of acids and the effect of salts on the same have not been studied well. In this article, the four acids (CH3COOH, HNO3, H2SO4, and HCl) and their effects on the hydrodynamic radius (RH) of gelatin in the bulk solution are investigated. The effects of Na salt with the same anions are also considered to draw a comparison between the interactions of acids and salts with polyampholytes. It is suggested that the interactions of polyampholytes with acids are different from those of salts. The interaction series of polyampholytes with acids with respect to the RH of the polyampholyte is C H 3 CO O − > N O 3 − > C l − > S O 4 2 − whereas the interaction series with salts is S O 4 2 − > C H 3 CO O − > C l − > N O 3 − . These different interactions are due to equilibration between acid dissociation and protonation of polyampholytes. Another important factor contributing to the interactions in weak acids is the fact that undissociated acid hinders the movement of dissociated acid. Experiments and simulations were performed to understand these interactions, and the results were identical in terms of the trend in RH (from the experiments) and the radius of gyration (Rg) (from the simulations). It is concluded that the valence of ions and dissociation affect the interaction in the case of acids. However, the interactions are influenced by the kosmotropic and chaotropic effect, hydration, and mobility in the case of salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Circulating lactate concentration is an important determinant of exercise tolerance. Objective This work aimed to determine the role of hyperglycemia on lactate metabolism during exercise in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods The protocol at the University of Virginia compared 7 T1D participants and 7 participants without diabetes (ND) at euglycemia (5.5 mM) or hyperglycemia (9.2 mM) in random order in T1D and at euglycemia in ND. Intervention included [1-13C] lactate infusion, exercise at 65% maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), euglycemia, and hyperglycemia visits. The main outcome measure was lactate turnover before, during, and after 60 minutes of exercise at 65% VO2max. Results A 2-compartment model with loss only from the peripheral compartment described lactate kinetics. Volume of distribution of the accessible compartment was similar between T1D and ND individuals (P =.76) and concordant with plasma volume (∼40 mL/kg). Circulating lactate concentrations were higher (P <.001) in T1D participants during exercise at hyperglycemia than euglycemia. Exercise-induced lactate appearance did not differ (P =.13) between hyperglycemia and euglycemia. However, lactate clearance (CL) was lower (P =.03) during hyperglycemia than euglycemia in T1D participants. There were no differences in any of the aforementioned parameters between T1D and ND participants during euglycemia. Conclusion Hyperglycemia modulates lactate metabolism during exercise by lowering CL, leading to higher circulating lactate concentrations in T1D individuals. This novel observation implies that exercise during hyperglycemia can lead to higher circulating lactate concentrations thus increasing the likelihood of reaching the lactate threshold sooner in T1D, and has high translational relevance both for providers and recreationally active people with T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the metal additive manufacturing techniques, directed energy deposition (DED) is least investigated, particularly in the context of machine learning (ML)-based process-structure correlation. To address this aspect, we performed the planned experiments for continuous deposition of single tracks of austenitic stainless steel (SS316L) by varying the process parameters. Based on extensive analysis of the melt pool quality in terms of defect morphology, the process map for DED of SS316L was created. This can help in decision-making regarding process parameter selection. Within the limitation of a small dataset, a number of statistical learning algorithms with tuned hyperparameters were trained to predict the geometrical parameters of single tracks (width, depth, height, track area, melt pool area). Based on an extensive evaluation of the performance metrics and residual error analysis, the Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) model was found to consistently predict all of the geometrical parameters better than other ML algorithms, with a statistically acceptable coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE). An attempt has been made to rationalise the superior performance of GPR in low data regime, over linear regression or gradient boosting machine (GBM) in reference to the underlying statistical framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Torrefaction of a large biomass particle was investigated using a transient 2-D model, including primary and secondary reactions kinetics and heat transfer, internal convection, and shrinkage. The model predictions matched with the experimental results within +2%. Spatial and temporal distributions of temperature, residual mass fraction, velocity, and pressure inside the particle and the effect of reactor temperature, residence time, particle size, and shrinkage on the torrefaction behaviour were investigated. Evolution of moisture, volatiles and gases due to drying and torrefaction increase the pressure inside the particle, setting up a velocity field and internal convection. Average velocity and pressure reached a peak during the initial drying period due to moisture evolution, and a subsequent second peak due to the formation of volatiles and gases by torrefaction at a reactor temperature > 493 K. Internal convection influenced torrefaction significantly but the particle shrinkage did not impact it appreciably. The degree of overshoot of the particle center temperature above the reactor temperature increased with the reactor temperature and the particle diameter. Simulations suggest that a reactor temperature of 550 K and residence of about 30 min would be suitable for torrefaction of a particle with L = D = 25.4 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Barriers to the cancer continuum organization and interventions to approach them have been identified; however, there is a lack of a tool matching them. Our aim was to develop a web-based tool to identify the main barriers to the process of the cancer continuum organization, and propose matched evidence-based interventions (EBI) to overcome them. Methods: A questionnaire on barriers at six steps of the process of the cancer continuum organization was answered by collaborators. Each question included several options of barriers to be ranked. Barriers were organized in a framework based on the Tanahashi conceptual model, and were categorized in these dimensions: availability of services, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, user-provider interaction, governance, protocols and guidelines, information system, and quality assurance. Systematic searches were conducted on interventions for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer. Interventions were matched with the barriers they helped to overcome, and were classified in one of these groups for each barrier and cancer site: EBI as a single strategy, EBI within a multicomponent strategy, limited-evidence interventions, and macro level approaches. Barriers and interventions were matched on a web-based tool named INTERVENER, that allows the selection of up to 3 barriers for each step. It displays the visual representation of the selected barriers, the size of each dimension being proportional with the importance of that dimension as a barrier. Experts on different aspects of screening and cancer sites provided feedback on the tool. Collaborators from 41 countries worldwide tested it. Results: The tool matched 81 barriers with over 60 interventions. Collaborators reported the webpage to be organized logically (N = 17, 94%) and clearly formatted (N = 15, 83%). The tool was found useful for conducting a situational analysis of the barriers to cancer screening (N = 16, 89%), facilitating discussion with stakeholders on prioritization of interventions (N = 15, 83%), and planning their implementation (N = 15, 83%). Conclusion: This tool supports countries in conducting a systematic assessment of barriers, including their prioritization, and identifying EBI to overcome them, ultimately facilitating reduction of health inequalities. This tool can support governments, policymakers, managers, and healthcare providers to make better informed decisions to improve their cancer screening programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Smart "discrete" technologies are taking over everyday activities with an intended shift towards complete automation. With this, ambient intelligence (AmI) has come under the limelight, to make these routines subtle and automated, enabled through the widespread adoption of the ubiquitous and pervasive Internet of Things (IoT). AmI is context‐driven depending largely on user input through various interfaces, which is nothing but the interplay between IoT and artificial intelligence (AI). Despite extensive incorporation of personal digital assistants and smart home systems, AI is not yet capable of accurately interpreting and responding to human emotions. This paper aims to present one such application to gauge the emotional and cognitive state of the user and respond appropriately, be it ambient lighting or an emergency SOS. The proposed model extracts network packets to work with audio messages on the real‐time transport protocol (RTP) layer and presents a lightweight multilayer perceptron (MLP)‐based speech emotion recognition (SER) model for emotional analysis with an accuracy of 80.52%. It also features a simple confidence rating system for further optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenoidectomy is a frequently done ENT procedure. The purpose of the current article is to assess endoscopic powered adenoidectomy as a potential replacement for the traditional curettage approach. Methods: Two hundred forty consecutive adenoidectomy cases were randomly divided into two groups of one hundred twenty each. Between August 2020 to February 2023 after getting ethical clearance from Institutional Ethical Committee, Group I underwent Conventional Curettage Adenoidectomy (CA), while Group II underwent Endoscopic Micro-debrider Adenoidectomy (EMA). Results: Average operative time in CA Group was 31.4 min and in EMA group was 55.7 min. In CA group, mean intraoperative blood loss was 64.4 mL, however, in EMA group, mean blood loss was 86.7 mL (p 0.001). In EMA Group, the resection was consistently complete, with 112 out of 120 cases having an adenoid grade of less than I in post-op. However in the CA group, in 44 (36.7%) of the patients, there was more than 25% remaining adenoid tissue postoperatively and more than 50% remnant adenoid tissue was found in 12 cases (10%) post-op. Post-operative pain was studied with the CA Group demonstrating an average 7 days' postoperative pain score of 3.90 whereas EMA Group demonstrating an average 7 days' postoperative pain score of 0.9. Conclusions: It was observed that EMA was a secure and reliable tool for adenoidectomy. Endoscopic powered adenoidectomy performed better in the completion of resection, accuracy of resection under vision, collateral damage, and post-operative pain. Contrarily, conventional Curettage adenoidectomy scored higher in terms of shorter surgery times and less intraoperative hemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two dimensional intergranular brittle cracks propagating through a microstructured material produce fracture profiles which, at scales larger than the microstructural length scale, are anti-persistent and close to directed random walks with Hurst exponent ∼ 0.5 . The extent of intergranularity is controlled by the ratio of the toughness of the grain boundaries to that of the grain interior. However, experiments suggest [e.g. Ponson et al. (Phys Rev Lett 97(12), 2006)] that even when transgranular crack propagation is possible, the fracture profile is still close to a random walk. In this work, generating fracture profiles in a material with an idealised honeycomb microstructure using a phase field based model of crack propagation, we show that the competition between inter and transgranular fracture manifests in a manner that is more nuanced than what the experiments suggest. While the fracture profile is indeed always anti-persistent, transgranularity resulting from toughening the grains leads to profiles that can have roughness exponents much lower than 0.5. Moreover, in such cases, the overall toughness of the specimen scales with the Hurst exponent. On the other hand, transgranularity resulting from weakening the grain boundaries, without changing the toughness of the grain interior, always lead to fracture profiles close to the random walk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peptidyl prolyl isomerases (PPIases) are well‐conserved protein‐folding enzymes that moonlight as regulators of bacterial virulence. Peptidyl prolyl isomerase A, PPiA (Rv0009) is a secretory protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that possesses sequence and structural similarity to eukaryotic cyclophilins. In this study, we validated the interaction of PPiA with stimulator of interferon genes (STING) using both, Escherichia coli‐based and mammalian in vitro expression systems. In vitro pull‐down assays confirmed that the cytosolic domain of STING interacts with PPiA, and moreover, we found that PPiA could induce dimerization of STING in macrophages. In silico docking analyses suggested that the PXXP (PDP) motif of PPiA is crucial for interaction with STING, and concordantly, mutations in the PDP domain (PPiA MUT‐II) abrogated this interaction, as well as the ability of PPiA to facilitate STING dimerization. In agreement with these observations, fluorescence microscopy demonstrated that STING and wild‐type PPiA, but not PPiA MUT‐II, could colocalize when expressed in HEK293 cells. Highlighting the importance of the PDP domain further, PPiA, but not PPiA MUT‐II could activate Tank binding kinase 1 (TBK1)‐interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) signaling to promote the release of interferon‐beta (IFNβ). PPiA, but not PPiA MUT‐II expressed in Mycobacterium smegmatis induced IFNβ release and facilitated bacterial survival in macrophages in a STING‐dependent manner. The PPiA‐induced release of IFNβ was c‐GAS independent. We conclude that PPiA is a previously undescribed mycobacterial regulator of STING‐dependent type I interferon production from macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fallopian tube undergoes extensive molecular changes during the menstrual cycle and menopause. We use single-cell RNA and ATAC sequencing to construct a comprehensive cell atlas of healthy human fallopian tubes during the menstrual cycle and menopause. Our scRNA-seq comparison of 85,107 pre- and 46,111 post-menopausal fallopian tube cells reveals substantial shifts in cell type frequencies, gene expression, transcription factor activity, and cell-to-cell communications during menopause and menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycle dependent hormonal changes regulate distinct molecular states in fallopian tube secretory epithelial cells. Postmenopausal fallopian tubes show high chromatin accessibility in transcription factors associated with aging such as Jun, Fos, and BACH1/2, while hormone receptors were generally downregulated, a small proportion of secretory epithelial cells had high expression of ESR2, IGF1R, and LEPR. While a pre-menopausal secretory epithelial gene cluster is enriched in the immunoreactive molecular subtype, a subset of genes expressed in post-menopausal secretory epithelial cells show enrichment in the mesenchymal molecular type of high-grade serous ovarian cancer. The fallopian tube undergoes extensive cellular and molecular changes during the menstrual cycle and aging. Here, Weigert et al. present a single-cell atlas of the normal human fallopian tube revealing the transition of secretory epithelial cells throughout the menstrual cycle and menopause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, population growth, and agricultural intensification are increasing nitrogen (N) inputs, while driving the loss of inland water bodies that filter excess N. However, the interplay between N inputs and water body dynamics, and its implications for water quality remain poorly understood. Analyzing data from 1995 to 2015 across China, here, we find a 71% reduction in the area of small (<104.5 m2) water bodies (SWB), primarily in high-N-input agricultural regions. Preferential loss of SWBs, the most efficient nutrient filters, places 42% of China at high water quality risk due to increasing N inputs and declining SWB density. Currently, N removal by water bodies is 986 kilotonnes year−1, but restoring 2.3 million hectares of SWB could increase removal by 21%, compared to just 5% for equivalent restoration of large water bodies. Targeted SWB restoration is crucial for improving water quality and mitigating N pollution in China. Small water bodies are crucial in global hydrologic and biogeochemical cycles. This study reveals rapid losses of small water bodies in China and highlights their restoration as a cost-effective, sustainable solution to improve water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Estranged Land and Labor in the Du Boisian Black Belt" from American Literary Realism explores W. E. B. Du Bois' work "The Souls of Black Folk" to delve into the history and environmental impact of the Black Belt region in the American South. Du Bois' analysis intertwines the ecological devastation caused by slavery with the region's political and social climates. The text critically examines the intertwined relationship between land, labor, and race, shedding light on the environmental and social consequences of chattel slavery and postbellum agricultural practices. Through a nuanced exploration of historical, political, and ecological themes, the article offers a complex understanding of the Black Belt's troubled past and its enduring legacies. [Extracted from the article]

The canonical function of glutamyl‐tRNA synthetase (GluRS) is to glutamylate tRNAGlu. Yet not all bacterial GluRSs glutamylate tRNAGlu; many glutamylate both tRNAGlu and tRNAGln, while some glutamylate only tRNAGln and not the cognate substrate tRNAGlu. Understanding the basis of the unique specificity of tRNAGlx is important. Mutational studies have hinted at hotspot residues, both on tRNAGlx and GluRS, which play crucial roles in tRNAGlx‐specificity. However, its underlying structural basis remains unexplored. The majority of biochemical studies related to tRNAGlx‐specificity have been performed on GluRS from Escherichia coli and other proteobacterial species. However, since the early crystal structures of GluRS and tRNAGlu‐bound GluRS were from non‐proteobacterial species (Thermus thermophilus), proteobacterial biochemical data have often been interpreted in the context of non‐proteobacterial GluRS structures. Marked differences between proteobacterial and non‐proteobacterial GluRSs have been demonstrated; therefore, it is important to understand tRNAGlx‐specificity vis‐a‐vis proteobacterial GluRS structures. To this end, we solved the crystal structure of a double mutant GluRS from E. coli. Using the solved structure and several other currently available proteo‐ and non‐proteobacterial GluRS crystal structures, we probed the structural basis of the tRNAGlx‐specificity of bacterial GluRSs. Specifically, our analyses suggest a unique role played by the tRNAGlx D‐helix contacting loop of GluRS in the modulation of tRNAGln‐specificity. While earlier studies have identified functional hotspots on tRNAGlx that control the tRNAGlx‐specificity of GluRS, this is the first report of complementary signatures of tRNAGlx‐specificity in GluRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study endeavors to decode the details of the transcriptional autoregulation effected by the MazE9 antitoxin of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis MazEF9 toxin–antitoxin system. Regulation of this bicistronic operon at the level of transcription is a critical biochemical process that is key for the organism's stress adaptation and virulence. Here, we have reported the solution structure of the DNA binding domain of MazE9 and scrutinized the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters operational in its interaction with the promoter/operator region, specific to the mazEF9 operon. A HADDOCK model of MazE9 bound to its operator DNA has been calculated based on the information on interacting residues obtained from these studies. The thermodynamics and kinetics of the interaction of MazE9 with the functionally related mazEF6 operon indicate that the potential for intracellular cross‐regulation is unlikely. An interesting feature of MazE9 is the cis ⇌ trans conformational isomerization of proline residues in the intrinsically disordered C‐terminal domain of this antitoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebae, fascinatingly diverse protists, showcase a dual nature that positions them as both friends and foes in our world. These organisms, defined by their distinctive pseudopodia, span a spectrum from harmful to helpful. On the darker side, species like Entamoeba histolytica pose serious health risks, causing intestinal and liver diseases, while the infamous "brain-eating" Naegleria fowleri leads to fatal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), with a daunting 97% mortality rate. Other free-living amoebae, including Acanthamoeba castellanii and Balamuthia mandrillaris , also threaten the human central nervous system. Yet, beyond these dangers, amoebae play critical ecological roles. They function as nature's recyclers, decomposing organic material and nourishing aquatic ecosystems, while also serving as food for various organisms. Moreover, certain amoebae help control plant pathogens and offer insight into human disease, proving valuable as model organisms in biomedical research. This review sheds light on the complex, multifaceted world of amoebae, highlighting their dual role as pathogens and as key contributors to vital ecological processes, as well as their significant impact on research and their promising potential for enhancing human well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Skeletal muscle wasting is a common occurrence in critical illness, often resulting in intensive care unit (ICU)‐acquired weakness. This study aims to identify clinical factors associated with muscle decay in mechanically ventilated critically ill children. Utilizing point‐of‐care ultrasound, a noninvasive and cost‐effective tool, we assess muscle decay through ultrasound of the quadriceps femoris. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in a single‐center quaternary‐care pediatric intensive care unit at a children's hospital. A convenience sample of 103 sedated and mechanically ventilated patients were enrolled in this study. Ultrasound measurements of quadriceps femoris muscle thickness were taken, and daily muscle decay rates were calculated. Demographic, clinical, and outcome data were analyzed for correlations with muscle decay. Results: Among the enrolled patients, 67 had repeat measurements. Muscle thickness change aligned with prior studies, with a mean daily change of −1.9% [IQR −0.8, −5.0]. Adequate cumulative caloric intake (>60% of goal) correlated with less muscle decay compared with inadequate intake (−1.8 vs −2.4%, P <.001). Average daily muscle change correlated with both ICU and hospital length of stay (LOS) (r =.328, P =.007 and r =.393, P =.001). No significant correlations emerged between muscle change and mortality, disease severity, fluid balance, early mobilization, steroid exposure, or sedative and paralytic use. Conclusion: This study demonstrates early and frequent muscle decay in critically ill children, as detected by point‐of‐care ultrasound. Average daily muscle decay was associated with longer ICU and hospital LOS. Adequate cumulative caloric intake is linked to reduced muscle decay. These findings contribute to understanding muscle wasting in critically ill pediatric patients. Access the CME test here and search by article title. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we present estimates of the world (net) profit rate using country-level data from the Extended Penn World Table 7.0 and estimates of the world (gross) profit rate using industry-level data from the World Input Output Database. The country-aggregated world profit rate series spans the period from 1960 to 2019, and the industry-aggregated world profit rate series runs from 2000 to 2014. The country-aggregated world profit rate series displays a strong negative linear trend for the period 1960–1980 and a weaker negative linear trend from 1980 to 2019. A medium run decomposition analysis reveals that the decline in the world profit rate is driven by a decline in the output-capital ratio. The industry-aggregated world profit rate shows a negative linear trend for the period 2000–2014, which, once again, is driven by a fall in the output-capital ratio. We have created a World Profitability Dashboard to allow researchers to freely access the world profit rate series and the underlying data at country, industry, country-group and world levels of aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study how nonfinancial firms' operating risks change after bank competition increases. By exploiting the 1990s staggered regulatory reforms across U.S. states that allowed interstate banking and branching, we show that out-of-state bank entry was associated with lower borrower risk-taking on average. Large, profitable, safe, and geographically diversified firms signed up as new clients of large entrant banks, which offered larger and cheaper loans that reflected their higher efficiency and risk reduction through geographical diversification. We argue that these large banks could substitute for local relationship lending with more data collection from branches in multiple states. Firms that began borrowing from entrant banks increased capital expenditures and project-specific financing and kept R&D expenses stable but reduced R&D risk. Firms that continued borrowing from incumbent banks paid higher interest rates and increased their risk, suggesting that their credit access fell. States that opened up more had bigger changes in these outcomes. Data availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text. JEL Classifications: G21; G28; G32. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study clinical features, anatomical and visual outcomes in eyes having rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) as the presenting feature of acute retinal necrosis (ARN). Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with ARN (active/healed) and concomitant RD at the presenting visit. Results: The median age of patients was 36 years, with a male preponderance (9:1). Bilateral ARN was observed in 60% of cases, with 50% of patients testing positive for human immunodeficiency virus. The duration between the onset of symptoms and presentation was 3.66 ± 2.26 weeks. At presentation, 53.3% of eyes had active retinitis. Vitreoretinal surgery with silicone oil tamponade was performed for 14 eyes. Visual acuity significantly improved in 3 months (P = 0.0027). Poor visual outcomes were associated with optic nerve involvement. The mean duration of silicone oil tamponade was 7.41 ± 4.48 months. Complications included recurrent RD (14.29%), epiretinal membranes (14.29%), cystoid macular edema (21.4%), and retinal scarring with atrophy. Conclusion: ARN with RD at presentation is a unique medical and surgical challenge, wherein good anatomical and functional outcomes could be achieved. The large size of retinitis and delayed presentation were the risk factors associated with poor visual outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of lifitegrast 5% versus carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) 0.5% in adult patients with dry eye disease (DED). Methods: A total of 370 eligible patients with DED were randomized equally to receive twice-daily doses of a single drop in each eye of either lifitegrast 5% or CMC 0.5% for 12 weeks. Follow-up at weeks 2, 6, and 12 evaluated changes from baseline in primary [eye dryness score (EDS), ocular discomfort score (ODS), ocular surface disease index (OSDI), and tear film break-up time (TFBUT)] and secondary [Schirmer tear test (STT) score and corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) score] endpoints. Global improvement, safety, and tolerability were also assessed. Results: At week 2, values of ocular discomfort score, OSDI, and conjunctival redness were significantly more favorable in patients treated with lifitegrast compared to CMC. At week 6, values of all study variables were better in patients treated with lifitegrast compared to CMC; differences between the groups were statistically significant for all except photophobia. This trend was also maintained at week 12. Global improvement and tolerability were found to be better with lifitegrast than with CMC. No serious safety concerns were reported in any treatment group. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first active-controlled trial informing on the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of lifitegrast 5%. Significantly more favorable values for EDS (except photophobia), ODS, OSDI, TFBUT, STT score, CFS score, and conjunctival redness score were achieved at week 12 with lifitegrast 5% compared to CMC 0.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a cooperative game theoretic approach to fair division of profit generated by overlapping teams of workers. We argue that unlike the standard notion of efficiency, individual shares must exhaust the sum of worths of all coalitions in this setting. We show that utilising the Shapley value through a suitably constructed characteristic function to account for this feature is unlikely to be practically acceptable. Instead, we directly use this no-wastage condition (we call it 'extended efficiency') to completely characterize two solutions of the fair division problem that satisfy monotonicity and symmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methods have been developed for transporting evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to target populations. However, these approaches allow only for differences in characteristics observed in the RCT and real‐world data (overt heterogeneity). These approaches do not recognise heterogeneity of treatment effects (HTE) according to unmeasured characteristics (essential heterogeneity). We use a target trial design and apply a local instrumental variable (LIV) approach to electronic health records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, and examine both forms of heterogeneity in assessing the comparative effectiveness of two second‐line treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus. We first estimate individualised estimates of HTE across the entire target population defined by applying eligibility criteria from national guidelines (n = 13,240) within an overall target trial framework. We define a subpopulation who meet a published RCT's eligibility criteria ('RCT‐eligible', n = 6497), and a subpopulation who do not ('RCT‐ineligible', n = 6743). We compare average treatment effects for pre‐specified subgroups within the RCT‐eligible subpopulation, the RCT‐ineligible subpopulation, and within the overall target population. We find differences across these subpopulations in the magnitude of subgroup‐level treatment effects, but that the direction of estimated effects is stable. Our results highlight that LIV methods can provide useful evidence about treatment effect heterogeneity including for those subpopulations excluded from RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) demonstrates unique developmental manifestations in adolescence with implications for optimized, age‐appropriate treatment. This 10‐year update is the third in a series of systematic reviews examining the efficacy and safety of adolescent ADHD treatments. We broadly examined efficacy on ADHD symptoms, impairments, and other reported outcomes. Acute and long‐term efficacy, and treatment moderators, were considered. Method: We performed PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO searches for articles published or in press from 2013 to 2024, integrated with hand search and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified in this series' earlier reviews. RCTs examining the safety or efficacy of interventions delivered to adolescents (ages 10.0–19.9) with a diagnosis of ADHD were included. Study characteristics were extracted and reviewed, quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE, and effect sizes were calculated for individual studies and illustrated using forest plots. Results: Sixty‐three RCTs were identified. Quality of evidence ranged from high (medication; k = 29) to very low (nutrient supplementation, neurofeedback, occupational therapy; k = 1 each). Medications demonstrated consistent strong impact on ADHD symptoms and inconsistent impact on impairment. Diverse cognitive/behavioral treatments (C/BTs) demonstrated inconsistent impact on ADHD symptoms but strong and consistent impact on impairment and executive function skills, plus moderate benefits on internalizing symptoms. No interventions demonstrated significant safety concerns. Long‐term maintenance (up to 3 years post‐treatment) was demonstrated for C/BTs, though moderate quality of evidence was noted because participants cannot be fully blinded to receipt of treatment. Conclusions: The effects of C/BTs and medication appear complementary, not duplicative. Combining medication and C/BT is advised at treatment outset to maximize engagement, maintenance, and response breadth (i.e. improving both ADHD symptoms/cognitive performance and coping skills/functional impairments). Engagement strategies (e.g. motivational interviewing) may facilitate uptake. Novel treatments do not yet demonstrate effects on ADHD symptoms or impairments in adolescents but remain a promising area for research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives We describe the development and implementation of a system for monitoring patient-reported adverse events and quality of life using electronic Patient Reported Outcome (ePRO) instruments in the I-SPY2 Trial, a phase II clinical trial for locally advanced breast cancer. We describe the administration of technological, workflow, and behavior change interventions and their associated impact on questionnaire completion. Materials and Methods Using the OpenClinica electronic data capture system, we developed rules-based logic to build automated ePRO surveys, customized to the I-SPY2 treatment schedule. We piloted ePROs at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) to optimize workflow in the context of trial treatment scenarios and staggered rollout of the ePRO system to 26 sites to ensure effective implementation of the technology. Results Increasing ePRO completion requires workflow solutions and research staff engagement. Over two years, we increased baseline survey completion from 25% to 80%. The majority of patients completed between 30% and 75% of the questionnaires they received, with no statistically significant variation in survey completion by age, race or ethnicity. Patients who completed the screening timepoint questionnaire were significantly more likely to complete more of the surveys they received at later timepoints (mean completion of 74.1% vs 35.5%, P  < .0001). Baseline PROMIS social functioning and grade 2 or more PRO-CTCAE interference of Abdominal Pain, Decreased Appetite, Dizziness and Shortness of Breath was associated with lower survey completion rates. Discussion and Conclusion By implementing ePROs, we have the potential to increase efficiency and accuracy of patient-reported clinical trial data collection, while improving quality of care, patient safety, and health outcomes. Our method is accessible across demographics and facilitates an ease of data collection and sharing across nationwide sites. We identify predictors of decreased completion that can optimize resource allocation by better targeting efforts such as in-person outreach, staff engagement, a robust technical workflow, and increased monitoring to improve overall completion rates. Trial Registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01042379. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intravenous lipid emulsions are an essential component of nutritional support for very preterm infants. Many neonatal intensive care units have transitioned from traditional soybean oil-only to fish oil-containing multicomponent lipid emulsions, but the neurodevelopmental implications have not been well-explored. The primary aim of this study was to assess extrauterine third trimester brain growth in very preterm infants supported with soybean oil-only compared to fish-oil containing multicomponent lipid emulsions; white matter development and neurobehavioral regulation at term were also investigated. Methods: Human milk-fed very preterm infants (born less than or equal to 32 weeks' gestation) receiving either soybean oil-only (before 2019) or multicomponent (after 2019) lipid emulsions underwent quantitative brain MRI (volumetric growth and white matter development) and neurodevelopmental assessment (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Network Neurobehavioral Scale) at term-equivalent age. Analyses were adjusted for age at birth and term assessments, as well as clinically significant covariates. Results: 92 infants (61 soybean, 31 multicomponent) were included (mean [SD] birth gestational age: 27.3 [2.3] weeks). Soybean oil-only infants demonstrated smaller brainstem volumes (β [95% CI] = -0.5 [-0.8,-0.1], p =.007); additionally less mature white matter development (mean diffusivity [MD, mm2/second x10− 3] and fractional anisotropy [FA]) in the corpus callosum (MD genu: β = 0.10 [0.01, 0.20], p =.04; splenium: β = 0.14 [0.04, 0.24], p =.006), posterior limbs of internal capsule (MD right (R): β = 0.05 [0.02, 0.08], p =.004, left (L): β = 0.04 [0.01, 0.08], p =.01; FA R: β = -0.03 [-0.06, -0.00], p =.03), and brainstem (FA R: β = 0.07 [0.04, 0.10], p <.001, L: β = 0.05 [0.02, 0.09], p =.002); and lower quality of movement (β = -0.54 [-0.97, -0.11], p =.02) and higher state-related stress (β = 1.41 [0.14, 2.83], p =.04). Conclusions: Very preterm infants supported with a fish-oil containing multicomponent compared to soybean oil-only lipid emulsion demonstrated improved regional brain growth, as well as evidence of enhanced white matter microstructural organization and neurobehavioral regulation, at term corrected age. Trial registration: Clinical trial number: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-transmitted alphavirus causing fever, myalgia, and debilitating joint swelling and pain, which in many patients becomes chronic. The frequent epidemics of CHIKV across the world pose a significant public health burden necessitating the development of effective antiviral therapeutics. A cellular imaging-based high-content screening of natural compounds identified withaferin A (WFA), a steroidal lactone isolated from the plant Withania somnifera, as a potent antiviral against CHIKV. In the ERMS cells, WFA inhibited CHIKV replication early during the life cycle by binding the CHIKV non-structural protein nsP2 and inhibiting its protease activity. This inhibited the viral polyprotein processing and the minus-sense viral RNA synthesis. WFA mounted the nsP2 protease inhibitory activity through its oxidising property as the reducing agents N-acetylcysteine and Glutathione-monoethyl ester effectively reversed the WFA-mediated protease inhibition in vitro and abolished the WFA-mediated antiviral activity in cultured cells. WFA inhibited CHIKV replication in the C57BL/6 mouse model of chikungunya disease, resulting in significantly lower viremia. Importantly, CHIKV-infected mice showed significant joint swelling which was not seen in WFA-treated mice. These data demonstrate the potential of WFA as a novel CHIKV antiviral. Author summary: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) spreads through the bites of the infected mosquitoes, and causes chikungunya fever involving severe joint and muscle pain. Epidemics of chikungunya fever are frequent, and the virus has become endemic in several regions. The virus has been reported from over 100 countries in Asia, Africa, South and Central America, and Europe, affecting almost half a million individuals annually. A CHIKV vaccine has recently been approved; however, no CHIKV-specific antiviral therapy is available. Considering the vast geographic spread of the virus and the large number of infections, developing novel CHIKV antivirals is an important public health priority. We screened small molecules from medicinal plants for anti-CHIKV activity and identified withaferin A (WFA) from the plant Withania sominifera as inhibiting virus replication in the cultured cells. CHIKV-infected mice treated with WFA showed reduced virus replication and no CHIKV infection symptoms. Our studies show that WFA binds the CHIKV protease and inhibits its action, which is necessary for producing the critical viral proteins for its replication. Our work has thus identified WFA as a novel CHIKV antiviral that may be studied further for its human use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deviation from protocolized assessment times is commonplace in pragmatic randomized clinical trials. Working with a stakeholder advisory board for a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute®-funded project on statistical methods for handling potential biases introduced by irregular assessment times, we identified reasons for off-schedule or missed assessments. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research 2.0 to organize our findings. We conjectured that timely completion of outcome assessments is a function of multiple determinants, only some related to participants’ health status. We identified potential determinants that can be modified during the protocol design stage and can be reassessed and mitigated during trial implementation stage. Research to more formally evaluate our findings is warranted as well as studies to evaluate multi-level strategies that reduce off-schedule or missed assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most prevalent forms of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) with a poor overall survival rate (about 50%), particularly in cases of metastasis. RNA-based cancer biomarkers are a relatively advanced concept, and non-coding RNAs currently have shown promising roles in the detection and treatment of various malignancies. This review underlines the function of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the OSCC and its subsequent clinical implications. LncRNAs, a class of non-coding RNAs, are larger than 200 nucleotides and resemble mRNA in numerous ways. However, unlike mRNA, lncRNA regulates multiple druggable and non-druggable signaling molecules through simultaneous interaction with DNA, RNA, proteins, or microRNAs depending on concentration and localization in cells. Upregulation of oncogenic lncRNAs and down-regulation of tumor suppressor lncRNAs are evident in OSCC tissues and body fluids such as blood and saliva indicating their potential as valuable biomarkers. Targeted inhibition of candidate oncogenic lncRNAs or over-expression of tumor suppressor lncRNAs showed potential therapeutic roles in in-vivo animal models. The types of lncRNAs that are expressed differentially in OSCC tissue and bodily fluids have been systematically documented with specificity and sensitivity. This review thoroughly discusses the biological functions of such lncRNAs in OSCC cell survival, proliferation, invasion, migration, metastasis, angiogenesis, metabolism, epigenetic modification, tumor immune microenvironment, and drug resistance. Subsequently, we addressed the diagnostic and therapeutic importance of lncRNAs in OSCC pre-clinical and clinical systems, providing details on ongoing research and outlining potential future directions for advancements in this field. In essence, this review could be a valuable resource by offering comprehensive and current insights into lncRNAs in OSCC for researchers in fundamental and clinical domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Between 2012–2022 opioid-related overdose deaths in the United States, including Washington State, have risen dramatically. Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a complex, chronic, and criminalized illness with biological, environmental, and social causes. One-fifth of people with OUD have recent criminal-legal system involvement; > 50% pass through WA jails annually. Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) can effectively treat OUD. WA has prioritized improving access to MOUD, including for those in jails. As patients in jail settings are systematically marginalized due to incarceration, it is critical to foster connections to MOUD services upon release, an acknowledged period of high overdose risk. Currently, there is insufficient focus on developing strategies to foster linkages between jail-based MOUD and referral services. The Systems Analysis and Improvement Approach (SAIA), an evidence-based implementation strategy, may optimize complex care cascades like MOUD provision and improve linkages between jail- and community-based providers. SAIA bundles systems engineering tools into an iterative process to guide care teams to visualize cascade drop-offs and prioritize steps for improvement; identify modifiable organization-level bottlenecks; and propose, implement, and evaluate modifications to overall cascade performance. The SAIA-MOUD study aims to strengthen the quality and continuity of MOUD care across jail and referral clinics in King County, WA, and ultimately reduce recidivism and mortality. Methods: We will conduct a quasi-experimental evaluation of SAIA effectiveness on improving MOUD care cascade quality and continuity for patients receiving care in jail and exiting to referral clinics; examine determinants of SAIA-MOUD adoption, implementation, and sustainment; and determine SAIA-MOUD's cost and cost-effectiveness. Clinic teams with study team support will deliver the SAIA-MOUD intervention at the jail-based MOUD program and three referral clinics over a two-year intensive phase, followed by a one-year sustainment phase where SAIA implementation will be led by King County Jail MOUD staff without study support to enable pragmatic evaluation of sustained implementation. Discussion: SAIA packages user-friendly systems engineering tools to guide decision-making by front-line care providers to identify low-cost, contextually appropriate health care improvement strategies. By integrating SAIA into MOUD care provision in jail and linked services, this pragmatic trial is designed to test a model for national scale-up. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06593353 (registered 09/06/2024; https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/beta/studies/S000EVJR00000029/recordSummary). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Meliponiculture is the breeding of stingless bees (SB) or bees of the Meliponini tribe. In Mexico, this activity was practiced before the arrival of the Spaniards, with the Yucatan Peninsula (YP) (comprising the states of Campeche, Quintana Roo and Yucatan) being the most important region due to its link with the economic, cultural and medicinal aspects of the Mayan communities. The objective of this study was to compare the sociodemographic characteristics and the participation of women in meliponiculture practiced in the YP. Our hypothesis suggests that the participation of women in meliponiculture is lower compared to that of men due to their sociocultural responsibilities in the community. Methods: A total of 56 interviews were conducted between December 2021 and December 2023, using referral sampling (this procedure was used due to non-availability of any producer's list; and due the random nature of the information obtained from various producers belonging to different sociodemographic contexts). The interview form consisted of the following sections: basic information about the producer, gender, age, years of education, number of colonies, honey production and years of experience. The information collected was analyzed using a Student's t-test in the R program. Results: It was observed that 66% of meliponiculturists were men and 34% were women. Differences were observed in the average age and number of colonies, in men with 47.4 ± 3.24; years and 36.19 ± 10.28 colonies; while in women, it was 38.1 ± 2.80 (t = 2.14; p = 0.036; gl = 52) years and 14.00 ± 2.42 (t = 2.09; p = 0.042; gl = 40) colonies. No differences were observed between the years of education (8.84 ± 0.79; men and 8.74 ± 0.94 (women; t = 0.08; p = 0.935; gl = 45) and the honey obtained per colony (0.620 ± 0.04 kg/honey; men and 0.600 ± 0.08 kg/honey; women; t = 0.18; p = 0.853, gl = 26). Conclusion: Meliponiculture in the YP is an activity practiced in a greater proportion by men; who also have a greater number of colonies compared to women. On the other hand, women who practice honey production are younger than men. The performance of rural women in commercial beekeeping has been affected by their traditional role in household activities and child care. They do not have enough time dedicated to meliponiculture; although the income they can obtain from the sale of products could contribute to the financial support of the family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript suggests quasi‐oppositional fast convergence evolutionary programming (QOFCEP) technique to determine short‐term generation scheduling of fixed head hydrothermal system comprising pumped storage hydro plants (PSHPs), solar PV plants (SPVPs) and wind turbine generators (WTGs) with demand response program (DRP). PSHPs are used with fixed head hydro power plants (FHPPs), thermal generating units (TGUs), SPVPs and WTGs to operate system conveniently. Uncertainties related to renewable generations and load demands have been considered. Self‐adaptive tent mapped scenarios of uncertain parameters are generated within higher level of confidence space to deal with the system uncertainties. DRP is applied to level the load demand curve and to enhance system flexibility and reduce operational cost. Numerical results of typical test system are matched with those attained by fast convergence evolutionary programming (FCEP) and evolutionary programming (EP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Calmodulin7 (CAM7) is a key transcription factor of Arabidopsis seedling development. CAM7 works together with HY5 bZIP protein to promote photomorphogenesis at various wavelengths of light. In this study, we show that AtMYB4, identified from a yeast two‐hybrid screen, physically interacts with CAM7 and works as a positive regulator of photomorphogenesis at various wavelengths of light. CAM7 and HY5 directly bind to the promoter of AtMYB4 to promote its expression for photomorphogenic growth. On the other hand, ARA4, identified from the same yeast two‐hybrid screen, works as a negative regulator of photomorphogenic growth specifically in white light. The double mutant analysis reveals that the altered hypocotyl elongation of atmyb4 and ara4 is either partly or completely suppressed by additional loss of function of CAM7. Furthermore, ARA4 genetically interacts with AtMYB4 in an antagonistic manner to suppress the elongated hypocotyl phenotype of atmyb4. The transactivation studies reveal that while CAM7 activates the promoter of AtMYB4 in association with HY5, ARA4 negatively regulates AtMYB4 expression. Taken together, these results demonstrate that working as a negative regulator of photomorphogenesis, ARA4 plays a balancing act on CAM7 and HY5‐mediated regulation of AtMYB4. Significance Statement: Through our findings, we introduce AtMYB4 and ARA4 in light signaling pathways that play a critical role in photomorphogenesis. Moreover, we suggest an interplay between AtMYB4, ARA4, CAM7, and HY5 in maintaining the homeostasis of AtMYB4 that subsequently regulates early seeding development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinal degenerative diseases lead to irreversible vision loss due to photoreceptor cell death, driven by complex genetic and environmental factors. Ceramide, a sphingolipid metabolite, emerges as a critical mediator in the apoptotic cascade associated with retinal degeneration. Our previous work demonstrated L-Cycloserine's ability to protect photoreceptor-derived cells from oxidative stress by inhibiting the de novo ceramide pathway and thus prompting further investigation on its effect in the in vivo retina. This study investigates the potential of L-Cycloserine to protect albino BALB/c mice against light-induced retinal degeneration (LIRD). L-Cycloserine, in an optimal dose, administered systemically 30 min before LIRD, was found to prevent photoreceptor cell death significantly from light-induced degeneration. We further determined the retinal bioavailability and pharmacokinetic behavior of L-Cycloserine, its effect on sphingolipid profile, expression of sphingolipid biosynthetic, and cell death-promoting genes and proteins from the retina to understand the underlying mechanisms. This study lays the groundwork for further preclinical and clinical investigations into L-Cycloserine's potential as a novel therapeutic in treating retinal degenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fulfill the increasing energy demand, photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is an effective approach. For that, it is very important to give rise to efficient photoelectrodes for the PEC water splitting reaction as the anodic reaction is sluggish, and because of that the overall efficiency remains obstructed. In this context, In2S3/In2O3 nanopyramids with exposed (111) facets are developed following a simple hydrothermal method. Further, the effect of Au plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) on the In2S3/In2O3 nanopyramid surface is investigated. Au NPs are decorated on In2S3/In2O3 nanopyramids by the thermal reduction method. The dipping time of In2S3/In2O3 in a Au-precursor solution is varied to alter the loading amount of Au. Au NPs enhance the light absorption of In2S3/In2O3 nanopyramids effectively from 600 to 800 nm. Furthermore, in the presence of Au NPs, carrier concentration is enhanced at the same time charge as transportation ability is also enhanced at the interface. The optimum decoration of Au NPs helps to achieve the efficient PEC activity. The best obtained In2S3/In2O3/Au in this study shows enhancement in photocurrent density by generating 5.16 mA/cm2 photocurrent density, which is nearly 3.66 times higher compared to that of In2S3/In2O3 at an applied potential of 0.599 V vs Ag/AgCl. Decoration of Au NPs also leads to a 2.6-fold higher carrier density and cathodic shift in onset potential. In2S3/In2O3/Au achieves a maximum photoconversion efficiency of nearly 1.18% at 0.26 V vs Ag/AgCl in 0.5 M Na2SO4 electrolyte. The In2S3/In2O3/Au nanostructure can even withstand the highly corrosive environment of 3.5% saline water. High photocurrent density of 4.52 mA/cm2 at 0.599 V vs Ag/AgCl can be generated by In2S3/In2O3/Au, where 3.5 wt % saline water is used as electrolyte. The developed photoelectrode: In2S3/In2O3–Au is capable of generating higher photocurrent at 0 V vs Ag/AgCl in 3.5% saline water compared to 0.5 M Na2SO4. Under continuous illumination for 3600 s in saline water, the stability of In2S3/In2O3/Au is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a promising approach for sustainable hydrogen production, driven by sunlight. To enhance the efficiency of PEC water-splitting systems, the development of efficient nanomaterials and architectures is crucial. Vertically grown nanostructures have emerged as a promising strategy to address several limitations of conventionally used PEC materials. Vertically grown architectures of nanomaterials offer various advantages such as increased light absorption by multiple reflections and scattering inside the material, decoupling in the direction of charge transfer and light absorption, maximizing the surface-area-to-volume ratio, which increases the electrode–electrolyte interface. Further heterostructure formation of these architectures can help to regulate the optoelectronic properties, which may help in enhancing the PEC performance. Heterostructure formation may involve different materials that absorb light at different wavelengths with favorable band positions. The process of heterostructure formation involves cocatalyst decoration, sensitization with different materials like quantum dots, plasmonic nanoparticles, etc. By carefully engineering the heterostructure composition and morphology, significant improvements can be achieved in the PEC performance, such as enhanced photocurrent density, extended photostability, and reduced onset potentials. The development of several advanced chemical and physical techniques, such as chemical vapor deposition, electrodeposition, hydrothermal, microwave, atomic layer deposition, etc., has enabled precise control over the heterostructure dimensions and composition, leading to desirable optoelectronic properties and optimized performance. In this Spotlight on Applications, we highlight advancements of vertically grown heterostructures for PEC water splitting. The integration of vertically aligned nanomaterials with optimized interfaces offers a promising pathway for the development of efficient and stable PEC water-splitting devices, paving the way toward sustainable hydrogen production from solar energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy flow in biomolecules is a dynamic process vital for understanding health, disease, and applications in biotechnology and medicine. In crowded environments, where biomolecular functions are modulated, comprehending energy flow becomes crucial for accurately understanding cellular processes like signaling and subsequent functions. This study employs ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy to demonstrate energy funneling from the photoexcited heme of bovine heart cytochrome c to the protein exterior, in the presence of common synthetic (Dextran 40, Ficoll 70, PEG 8 and Dextran 70) and protein-based (BSA and β-LG) crowders. The through-space energy transfer mode for ferric and the methionine rebinding mode for ferrous cytochrome c show the strongest solvent coupling. The heterogeneous behaviour of crowders, influenced by crowder–protein interactions and caging effects at certain higher concentrations, reveal diverse trends. Notably, protein crowders perturb all transport routes of vibrational energy transfer, causing delays in energy transfer processes. These findings provide significant insights into the basic tenets of energy flow, one of the most fundamental processes, in crowded cellular environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pulsed electrodeposition was performed on mild steel surfaces to prepare Ni-W-based composite coatings consisting of TiO2 and ZrO2 oxide nanoparticles. To evaluate the oxidative properties of coatings, isothermal oxidation studies were performed on the coatings at 873, 973, and 1073 K in the air for 30 h. The coatings' phase evolution, morphology, and chemistry were investigated by x-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. As a result of examining the microstructure changes after the oxidation test, it was found that the oxide formation increased according to the oxidation temperature. To determine the oxidation kinetics of the respective coatings, Arrhenius plots were drawn and activation energies were calculated. The final results confirmed that the oxidation resistance of the Ni-W-TiO2-ZrO2 nanocomposite coatings (NiWNC) increased with the addition of ZrO2 (0 − 15 g/L). In this study, better oxidation resistance was observed for the Ni-W-5 g/L TiO2-15 g/L ZrO2 nanocomposites compared to the rest of the coatings. These findings highlight the potential of producing highly oxidation-resistant coatings using a cost-effective method on commercially available metal surfaces such as mild steels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell states are modulated by intrinsic driving forces such as gene expression noise and extrinsic signals from the tissue microenvironment. The distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic cell state determinants is essential for understanding the regulation of cell fate in tissues during development, homeostasis and disease. The rapidly growing availability of single-cell resolution spatial transcriptomics makes it possible to meet this challenge. However, available computational methods to infer topological tissue domains, spatially variable genes, or ligand-receptor interactions are limited in their capacity to capture cell state changes driven by crosstalk between individual cell types within the same niche. We present NiCo, a computational framework for integrating single-cell resolution spatial transcriptomics with matched single-cell RNA-sequencing reference data to infer the influence of the spatial niche on the cell state. By applying NiCo to mouse embryogenesis, adult small intestine and liver data, we demonstrate the ability to predict novel niche interactions that govern cell state variation underlying tissue development and homeostasis. In particular, NiCo predicts a feedback mechanism between Kupffer cells and neighboring stellate cells dampening stellate cell activation in the normal liver. NiCo provides a powerful tool to elucidate tissue architecture and to identify drivers of cellular states in local niches. A key question in single-cell biology is how cells communicate and exchange information with neighboring cells in tissues. Here, the authors introduce NiCo to predict the downstream effect of cell-cell interactions on cellular states in tissue niches from spatial transcriptomics data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]