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Flux Synthesis of Lattice‐Engineered Rutile Solid Solutions for Acidic Oxygen Evolution
Abstract Developing efficient and stable electrocatalysts for the acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is vital for advancing proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) technologies. Here, we report a flux synthesis of nitrogen‐doped Ti–Ru rutile‐type solid‐solution oxides (M‐TiRu4) using molten NaNO 3 as the flux medium. The flux medium promotes the low‐temperature conversion of TiN to rutile TiO 2 , while in situ‐formed RuO 2 nanoparticles facilitate lattice templating and couple with interfacial ion migration, enabling the formation of homogeneous solid solutions with abundant lattice heterogeneity. Simultaneously, nitrogen atoms are stably incorporated into the lattice of solid solutions, inducing bandgap narrowing, which enhances electronic conductivity. The developed M‐TiRu4 catalyst exhibits exceptional acidic OER performance, delivering a low overpotential of 194 mV at 10 mA cm −2 , superior durability over 600 h, and a Ru mass activity 7.8 times that of commercial RuO 2 . At the device level, M‐TiRu4 enables PEMWE operation at 1.64 V @ 2 A cm −2 and maintains stable performance at 500 mA cm −2 for 200 h with a minimal degradation rate of 20 µV h −1 . This work demonstrates a robust approach for designing high‐performance, durable acidic OER catalysts via synergistic lattice and electronic structure engineering, paving the way for next‐generation water‐splitting technologies.
Protocol for a randomized controlled trial of a combined motivational interviewing and behavioral couples therapy intervention to reduce intimate partner violence and alcohol use in south India
There is a strong association between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and intimate partner violence (IPV), both widely prevalent global health issues. However, few interventions target both IPV and AUD, include both partners in the intervention, and are delivered by non-specialist providers in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings with scarce mental health resources. This paper describes the protocol for a randomized controlled trial of a combined motivational interviewing (MI) and behavioral couples therapy (BCT) intervention delivered in urban primary care settings in India by nurses with no behavioral health training prior to joining the study. A total of 400 couples will be enrolled and randomized to one of two arms: an intervention arm comprised of 10, hour-long sessions of the MI + BCT intervention, and a control arm receiving enhanced usual care and medical-legal referrals. Data collection will take place at five timepoints: baseline (pre-intervention), three-, six-, nine-, and 12-month follow-ups. Primary quantitative outcomes include the frequency of intimate partner violence over the last 6 months and self-reported quantity and frequency of alcohol use, drinking behaviors, and alcohol-related problems as assessed on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Secondary outcomes include number of days with a negative breathalyzer test over a one-week period, communication patterns, and the quality of marital relationship. Qualitative interviews with a sub-sample (n = 40 couples) from the intervention arm will take place immediately post-intervention and at 12 months to explore underlying mechanisms of change. If successful, study results can inform future efforts to develop scalable interventions for IPV and AUD that can be sustained in the Indian public health system through existing PHC staff and infrastructure and be adapted to similar sociocultural settings.
Distinct liquid-liquid phase separation properties of end-binding proteins EB1 and EB3
3D printing and three column concept in surgical treatment of tibial plateau fracture
Demographic trends and disparities among NIH-funded medical school faculty in the US, 1970–2022
Background Although gender and racial/ethnic trends and disparities are well documented among recipients of National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grant funding, little is known about the demographic trends and disparities within a critical subpopulation: NIH-funded medical school faculty. Methods This paper analyzes a rich dataset of full-time medical school faculty and their NIH grants from 1970 to 2022 and examines temporal trends in the demographic distribution and relative representation (representation index) of NIH-funded medical school faculty by gender, race/ethnicity, and their intersections. Results This paper reports that, while the gender gap in NIH funding has narrowed, a gender gap remains, particularly among highly funded faculty. Further, trends disaggregated by both gender and race/ethnicity demonstrate the particularly low relative representation of Black and Hispanic NIH-funded faculty, specifically Black and Hispanic women, that persists over time. Notably, although Asian men and women are represented at similar rates among medical school faculty overall, a gender gap in favor of Asian men has become more pronounced over time among NIH-funded Asian faculty. Conclusions Although there are efforts to recognize a broader set of metrics for a successful research career, research grant funding remains key for establishing research independence, tenure, and promotion. Thus, our findings of ongoing disparities underscore the urgent need to identify effective strategies to advance gender and racial/ethnic equity within NIH-funded medical school faculty.
Cyclophilin D is a new non-canonical substrate of the mitochondrial intermembrane space assembly pathway
An improved artemisinin algorithm for task allocation in heterogeneous robot systems for chemical inspection
Engineering Asymmetric Surfaces of Two‐Dimensional Single‐Layered Polyoxometalate–Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets via Interfacial‐Assisted out‐of‐Plane Self‐Assembly
Abstract Constructing two‐dimensional (2D) asymmetric single‐layered nanosheets (2D ASNs) with anisotropic microstructures, intrinsic gradient electric field, and unprecedented energy conversion efficiency remains a great challenge. Here, we present an interfacial‐assisted out‐of‐plane assembly method to synthesize a novel type of 2D ASNs composed of layered double hydroxide (LDH), polyoxometalate (POM), and dioctadecyldimethylammonium. The synthesized asymmetric POM–LDH single‐layered nanosheets (APLNs) exhibited two distinct surfaces: one with hydrophilic Mg(Al)–OH groups and the other with hydrophobic alkyl chains. Molecular dynamics simulations elucidated that the strong out‐of‐plane electrostatic forces drive the assembly process and stabilize the asymmetric structures. By varying the size and charges of POMs, we observed a consistent 1: 2 charge ratio between each POM and its corresponding occupied LDH laminate area. This finding was further validated by visualizing the distribution of electron‐rich POMs through transmission electron microscopy, inferring that the surface charge distributions on the 2D surfaces could be quantified and visualized. When applied to the electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction, the hydrophobic surface of the APLNs demonstrated the H 2 O 2 selectivity of ∼90% compared to that of ∼50% for the hydrophilic surface, highlighting the crucial role of the distinct surface properties in modulating the reaction pathway and product selectivity.
Visit-to-visit glycemic variability is associated with lung function variables and lung function impairment in individuals with type 2 diabetes
Glycemic variability (GV) is an emerging biomarker of glycemic control and may be a predictor for lung function impairment in persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the associations between GV and lung function variables and lung function impairment have not been fully evaluated. The objective of this study was to assess the associations of glycemic variability (GV) with lung function impairment in persons with T2DM. A follow-up study was conducted on the data of 3,108 subjects collected from 2001 to 2020 using the diabetes care management program database in Taiwan. GV in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was calculated using standard deviation (SD), average real variability (ARV), coefficient of variation (CV), variability independent of the mean (VIM), and slope of 1-year repeated measurements. A ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) to forced vital capacity (FVC) less than 0.70 was used to define lung function impairment. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were applied to explore the relationships of GV with lung function variables and lung function impairment. A total of 359 (11.6%) subjects were defined as having lung function impairment. After multivariable adjustment, FPG‐SD, FPG-CV, FPG-AVR, FPG-VIM and were found to be negatively linked with FEV1, % predicted FEV1, and FVC but not FEV1/FVC. Relative to those for the first tertile, the odds ratios (ORs) of lung function impairment for the second and third tertiles were 1.37 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01, 1.87) and 1.51 (1.10, 2.08) for FPG-CV, respectively; 1.59 (1.16, 2.17) and 1.73 (1.24, 2.40) for FPG‐SD, respectively; and 1.57 (1.15, 2.13) and 1.69 (1.22, 2.33) for FPG-AVR, respectively. GV, measured by CV, SD, VIM, and VIM, is linked with lung function impairment and all lung function variables, except for FEV1/FVC ratio. GV may serve as a useful biomarker for assessing lung function impairment in persons with T2DM.
The m6A reader YTHDF1 facilitates nasopharyngeal carcinoma proliferation and migration via c-MYC
Characteristics of continental shale reservoirs in the Xuanhua Basin of Yanshan area and their influence on gas-bearing properties
Abstract The continental shale of the Jurassic Xiahuayuan Formation in the Xuanhua Basin of the Yanshan area displays widespread occurrence and notable thickness, indicating good potential for industrial-scale shale gas production. However, there are still many uncertainties regarding the characteristics of shale reservoirs, their gas-bearing properties, and the main controlling factors. To characterize the Xiahuayuan Formation shale, this study employed total organic carbon (TOC) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), low-temperature N 2 adsorption (LTN 2 A), and in-situ gas content measurement to systematically investigate organic matter (OM) composition, reservoir properties, and gas occurrence characteristics. Moreover, the principal influencing factors of the gas-bearing characteristics were discussed. The results indicate that the Xiahuayuan Formation shale exhibits relatively high TOC content and is in the mature to high-mature stage. The OM type is mainly Type Ⅲ kerogen, providing a favorable foundation for the formation and storage of shale gas. The in-situ desorption gas content is predominantly composed of free gas. Both the adsorbed and free gas contents gradually increase as burial depth increases. Shale gas content is influenced by multiple geological factors. Among them, the TOC is conducive to hydrocarbon generation in shale. It promotes the development of OM pores, increases pore volume (PV) and specific surface area (SSA), and thus shows a positive correlation with various gas contents. As R o increases, both the hydrocarbon adsorption capacity and the ability to store free gas are enhanced. In addition, quartz has a remarkable resistance to compaction and can effectively protect the pore structure. When its content is relatively high, it tends to have a slight positive relationship with various gas contents. Conversely, carbonate minerals, by filling the original pores and microfractures, show a negative association with various gas contents. In contrast, clay minerals contribute to the formation of numerous secondary pores and show a positive correlation with various gas contents. The pore structure of shale primarily consists of mesopores and micropores. An increase in micropore volume leads to a reduction in the average pore size (APS), promoting an increase in SSA and PV, and further enhancing the adsorption capacity and storage space of shale. This research are intended to offer a robust geological foundation for future exploration and development efforts related to continental shale gas resources.
From safety commitment to safety behavior: The mediating role of safety awareness
To deeply analyze the mechanism of workplace safety climate on employee safety behavior, a conceptual model of employee safety behavior was constructed based on the theory of stimulus-organism-response (SOR). Structural equation modeling was used to test the model and hypotheses. The results show that safety communication and safety regulation have a significant positive impact on employees’ safety commitment and, consequently, on their safety compliance behavior. However, safety communication has no significant impact on employees’ safety awareness. Safety regulation can significantly improve employees’ safety awareness, which in turn enhances their compliance behavior. Employees’ safety compliance behavior directly affects their participation behavior and plays a completely mediating role in the influence of safety commitment and safety awareness on safety participation behavior.
Mechanism of NUMBL enhancing axitinib resistance in clear cell renal cell carcinoma by UCHL1-mediated deubiquitination of MMP9
Transgenic validation of a promoter strongly inducible by Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Abstract We report for the first time the isolation and functional characterization of a novel promoter inducible by Agrobacterium tumefaciens , the causative agent of crown gall disease, which leads to significant crop losses. Chemical control of this neoplastic disease is ineffective, since bacterial presence is not essential for T-DNA mediated tumor development. Moreover, A. tumefaciens -mediated transformation, a cornerstone of plant biotechnology, fails in many recalcitrant species due to poorly understood mechanisms. A unique 1086 bp promoter (HyPRO) sharing only ~ 7% similarity with known sequences in NCBI was isolated upstream of the hyp1 gene from Hypericum perforatum . In silico analysis revealed multiple cis regulatory elements (CREs), including WRKY710S, W box, PALBOX, GT1, and VRE, associated with biotic stress responses. Transgenic tobacco plants expressing β glucuronidase (GUS) under HyPRO showed strong induction by A. tumefaciens , significantly higher than induction by Pseudomonas syringae . Upstream truncation of the promoter significantly reduced GUS expression, indicating essential regulatory elements lie upstream of position − 728. This A. tumefaciens responsive promoter offers a valuable tool to dissect plant defense and could enable innovative transgenic strategies for crop improvement and resistance to neoplastic diseases. Characterization of A. tumefaciens -specific CREs using the truncation approach is currently underway in our laboratory.
Integrated multi-omics analysis reveals necroptosis-related biomarker BIRC3 for early diagnosis and therapeutic targeting in preeclampsia
Background Preeclampsia (PE) is a life-threatening pregnancy disorder lacking reliable early biomarkers. While apoptosis is implicated in PE pathogenesis, the role of regulated necrotic cell death (necroptosis) remains poorly understood. This study aimed to identify necroptosis-related biomarkers, and further provide the potential natural compounds for PE with virtual screening. Methods Public datasets (GSE66273 for training set; GSE44711 for validation set; GSE173193 for single-cell RNA-seq) were analyzed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened using limma (|log2FC| > 1, P < 0.05). Necroptosis-related genes overlapped with DEGs to identify key candidates. Subsequent analyses included machine learning, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and immune infiltration profiling. Single-cell RNA sequencing data (GSE173193) was utilized to localize BIRC3 expression at the cellular level. Transcription factors, microRNAs, and RNA-binding proteins associated with BIRC3 are also identified. Finally, Molecular docking predicted therapeutic drugs targeting hub genes. Results The analysis of the GSE66273 dataset identified 367 DEGs. Intersection with necroptosis-related genes revealed 3 necroptosis-related DEGs (NRDEGs), from which BIRC3 was prioritized as hub gene through PPI networks and machine learning (random forest). BIRC3 demonstrated significant diagnostic potential in the discovery cohort (AUC = 0.933) and maintained strong performance in the independent validation cohort (AUC = 0.844). Single-cell analysis revealed BIRC3 was predominantly expressed in immune lineages, particularly NK/T cells, with a significantly higher proportion of BIRC3-positive cells in PE placentas (p < 0.05). Immune microenvironment further analysis demonstrated significant dysregulation in PE. Finally, based on the BIRC3 structure, Withanolide D (−11.0 kcal/mol), Baicalin (−9.0 kcal/mol) and Mangostin (−8.3 kcal/mol) were screened. Conclusion This comprehensive analysis implicates necroptosis in PE pathogenesis. BIRC3 is proposed as a novel diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target, with multi-omics validation underscoring its role in immune dysregulation and placental dysfunction.
The organic cation transporters 1 and 2 mediate ethanolamine cellular efflux and control systemic phosphatidylethanolamine level
Developing and validating prediction models for low back pain and neck pain in office workers: a cross-sectional study
Exploring spatial variation and multilevel modeling of malaria prevalence among children aged 6-59 months based on RDT in Niger: Insights for public health decision-making
Background: Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, which act as vectors of the disease. It affects approximately 219 million people globally and results in 435,000 deaths each year. Fever, chills, and exhaustion are among of the signs of this illness. If left untreated, these symptoms can develop into serious problems like anemia, respiratory distress, and even organ failure. By identifying determinants related to malaria prevalence, this study supports evidence-based national malaria prevention and control initiatives. The results help improve decision-making for malaria control efforts and guide focused public health initiatives by identifying areas with a high malaria burden. Methods: Data from the 2021 Niger Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) is used, focusing on RDT-confirmed malaria cases in children aged 6-59 months. The dataset includes individual, household, and community-level variables, such as age, household income, education, healthcare access, and geographic coordinates. Spatial distribution of malaria prevalence is first visualized through maps and hot spot analysis to identify areas with high and low malaria rates. Random effects are incorporated to capture unobserved heterogeneity between regions and communities, allowing for more accurate estimates of malaria prevalence by adjusting for spatial clustering. Multilevel logistic regression models are applied to account for the hierarchical structure of the data. Model fit is evaluated using standard criteria (AIC, BIC and DIC), and diagnostics are performed to ensure reliability. Results: 1121 (23.7%) of the 4724 children aged 6 to 59 months who were examined had positive RDT results for malaria. Malaria prevalence in Niger among children aged 6–59 months is significantly clustered (Moran′s I = 0.434, p < 0.001), revealing distinct hotspots and cold spots unlikely due to chance. Model III provides a better fit for RDT prevalence among children aged 6-59 months with malaria, as indicated by the smallest AIC, BIC, and deviation statistics compared to other reduced models. Malaria prevalence was associated with factors, including child age, anemia levels, maternal education, the number of children sleeping under bed nets, the use of insecticide-treated nets, the number of children aged 5 and under, as well as residence and region. Conclusion: The findings show that malaria prevalence among children aged 6-59 months in Niger is significantly influenced by factors such as child age, anemia levels, maternal education, and bed net usage, emphasizing the need for improved coverage of insecticide-treated nets and tailored interventions based on local conditions.