Advances In Research Research Articles

Bio-Inspired Self-Healing Silicon Anodes: Harnessing Tea Polyphenols to Enhance Lithium-Ion Battery Performance.

This study introduces an anode material for lithium-ion batteries, achieved by integrating tea polyphenols (TP) with the widely utilized polyacrylic acid (PAA) binder. The composite material capitalizes on the intrinsic self-healing properties of TP, enhancing the anode's durability and adhesiveness without the need for additional organic synthesis. The incorporation of TP has been demonstrated to significantly elevate ionic conductivity and expedite lithium ion diffusion, thereby reducing interfacial resistance and decelerating the rate of capacity fade due to electrolyte decomposition and silicon particle expansion. Employing a comprehensive analytical toolkit, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, peel strength measurements, and density functional theory calculations, we elucidated the physicochemical properties of the Si@PAA-TP anode. The anode's electrochemical performance was systematically assessed through galvanostatic charge-discharge, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, with scanning electron microscopy providing insights into postcycling mechanical property alterations. This research advances a cost-effective, high-performance adhesive strategy for silicon anodes and contributes to the development.

The future of genetic medicines delivered via targeted lipid nanoparticles to leukocytes

Genetic medicines hold vast therapeutic potential, offering the ability to silence or induce gene expression, knock out genes, and even edit DNA fragments. Applying these therapeutic modalities to leukocytes offers a promising path for treating various conditions yet overcoming the obstacles of specific and efficient delivery to leukocytes remains a major bottleneck in their clinical translation. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as the leading delivery system for nucleic acids due to their remarkable versatility and ability to improve their in vivo stability, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic benefits. Equipping LNPs with targeting moieties can promote their specific cellular uptake and internalization to leukocytes, making targeted LNPs (tLNPs) an inseparable part of developing leukocyte-targeted gene therapy. However, despite the significant advancements in research, genetic medicines for leukocytes using targeted delivery approaches have not been translated into the clinic yet. Herein, we discuss the important aspects of designing tLNPs and highlight the considerations for choosing an appropriate bioconjugation strategy and targeting moiety. Furthermore, we provide our insights on limiting challenges and identify key areas for further research to advance these exciting therapies for patient care.

Analysis of Tuberculosis Control (Case Study in The City of Mojokerto) Year 2024

This study aims to analyze the tuberculosis (TB) situation in Mojokerto City, focusing on the increase in cases among children and identifying effective countermeasures. TB, a preventable and curable infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is particularly problematic in developing countries like Indonesia due to high incidence and mortality rates, necessitating a comprehensive control strategy. Employing qualitative methods, this research delves into the practices, perceptions, and social dynamics affecting TB control efforts in Mojokerto, illuminated by the latest data showing a significant increase in pediatric TB cases and the public health situation. Findings reveal a TB incidence rate of 385 per 100,000 inhabitants, a case detection rate of 75%, and a notably high pediatric TB case proportion of 32%. The effectiveness of case tracking by health centers varies, with an average of only 54% receiving Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT). Major obstacles include limited access to radiology services, social stigma, and the need for adequate health facilities. Innovations such as the "Mbak Desi Fights TB" program and enhanced cross-sector cooperation are deemed crucial to strengthen control strategies. The study concludes that a multifaceted strategy is essential for combating TB in Mojokerto, which should include enhanced case detection, health system strengthening, and community integration in control efforts. Increased collaboration across sectors and advancements in research and development are expected to accelerate TB elimination. This research offers efficient recommendations to improve TB control strategies, based on an in-depth analysis of the current conditions and social dynamics in Mojokerto.

“You Scare Me”: The Effects of Humanoid Robot Appearance, Emotion, and Interaction Skills on Uncanny Valley Phenomenon

This study investigates the effects of humanoid robot appearance, emotional expression, and interaction skills on the uncanny valley phenomenon among university students using the social humanoid robot (SHR) Ameca. Two fundamental studies were conducted within a university setting: Study 1 assessed student expectations of SHRs in a hallway environment, emphasizing the need for robots to integrate seamlessly and engage effectively in social interactions; Study 2 compared the humanlikeness of three humanoid robots, ROMAN, ROBIN, and EMAH (employing the EMAH robotic system implemented on Ameca). The initial findings from corridor interactions highlighted a diverse range of human responses, from engagement and curiosity to indifference and unease. Additionally, the online survey revealed significant insights into expected non-verbal communication skills, continuous learning, and comfort levels during hallway conversations with robots. Notably, certain humanoid robots evoked stronger emotional reactions, hinting at varying degrees of humanlikeness and the influence of interaction quality. The EMAH system was frequently ranked as most humanlike before the study, while post-study perceptions indicated a shift, with EMAH and ROMAN showing significant changes in perceived humanlikeness, suggesting a re-evaluation by participants influenced by their interactive experiences. This research advances our understanding of the uncanny valley phenomenon and the role of humanoid design in enhancing human–robot interaction, marking the first direct comparison between the most advanced, humanlike research robots.

Ironing Out the Mechanism of gp130 Signaling.

gp130 functions as a shared signal-transducing subunit not only for interleukin (IL)-6 but also for eight other human cytokine receptor complexes. The IL-6 signaling pathway mediated through gp130 encompasses classical, trans, or cluster signaling, intricately regulated by a diverse array of modulators affecting IL-6, its receptor, and gp130. Currently, only a limited number of small molecule antagonists and agonists for gp130 are known. This review aims to comprehensively examine the current knowledge of these modulators and provide insights into their pharmacological properties, particularly in the context of cancer and other diseases. Notably, the prominent gp130 modulators SC144, bazedoxifene, and raloxifene are discussed in detail, with a specific focus on the discovery of SC144's iron-chelating properties. This adds a new dimension to the understanding of its pharmacological effects and therapeutic potential in conditions where iron homeostasis is significant. Our bioinformatic analysis of gp130 and genes related to iron homeostasis reveals insightful correlations, implicating the role of iron in the gp130 signaling pathway. Overall, this review contributes to the evolving understanding of gp130 modulation and its potential therapeutic applications in various disease contexts. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This perspective provides a timely and comprehensive analysis of advancements in gp130 signaling research, emphasizing the therapeutic implications of the currently available modulators. Bioinformatic analysis demonstrates potential interplay between gp130 and genes that regulate iron homeostasis, suggesting new therapeutic avenues. By combining original research findings with a broader discussion of gp130's therapeutic potential, this perspective significantly contributes to the field.

Revisiting the role of MicroRNAs in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a prevalent chronic pulmonary fibrosis disease characterized by alveolar epithelial cell damage, fibroblast proliferation and activation, excessive extracellular matrix deposition, and abnormal epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), resulting in tissue remodeling and irreversible structural distortion. The mortality rate of IPF is very high, with a median survival time of 2-3years after diagnosis. The exact cause of IPF remains unknown, but increasing evidence supports the central role of epigenetic changes, particularly microRNA (miRNA), in IPF. Approximately 10% of miRNAs in IPF lung tissue exhibit differential expression compared to normal lung tissue. Diverse miRNA phenotypes exert either a pro-fibrotic or anti-fibrotic influence on the progression of IPF. In the context of IPF, epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate differentially expressed miRNAs, which in turn modulate various signaling pathways implicated in this process, including transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathways. Therefore, this review presents the epidemiology of IPF, discusses the multifaceted regulatory roles of miRNAs in IPF, and explores the impact of miRNAs on IPF through various pathways, particularly the TGF-β1/Smad pathway and its constituent structures. Consequently, we investigate the potential for targeting miRNAs as a treatment for IPF, thereby contributing to advancements in IPF research.

Changes of microbial active ingredients and antioxidant capacity during fermentation process of dark tea

Dark tea, a traditional fermented tea in China, is known for its unique flavor and enhanced health potential due to its fermentation process. However, previous studies on the evolution of its active ingredients and antioxidant properties have been limited by inadequate sample collection, single analytical methods, and insufficient data processing. To address these challenges, this study employed a comprehensive strategy to analyze the dynamic changes of active compounds and antioxidant efficacy during dark tea fermentation using refined sampling, diverse assay techniques, and advanced data analysis. A multi-point temporal sampling method was used to capture key stages of fermentation, ensuring comprehensive data. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and various antioxidant assays (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), 2, 2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), Ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)) enabled precise quantification of tea polyphenols, catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that tea polyphenols and catechins decreased, theaflavins increased then slightly declined, and thearubigins steadily rose as fermentation progressed. These changes were linked to fluctuations in antioxidant capacity, peaking at around 30 mg/g of phenolic compounds. The study also explored optimizing fermentation to enhance the retention of beneficial components, maximizing antioxidant properties and improving product quality. This research advances the understanding of dark tea fermentation and supports the sustainable development of the dark tea industry.

Enhanced Organic Solvent Nanofiltration Membranes with Double Permeance via Laser‐Induced Graphitization of Polybenzimidazole

AbstractThis study investigates the fabrication of organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) membranes through laser‐induced graphitization of polybenzimidazole (PBI). Employing a CO2 laser, the polymer is converted into graphene, resulting in controlled submicron‐scale porous 3D structures, a feat not achievable with traditional methods such as chemical crosslinking. The effectiveness of this process hinges on precise adjustments of laser parameters, such as fluence, to attain the ideal graphitization levels. The findings indicate that partial graphitization, as opposed to excessive, is crucial for preserving the membrane's microstructure and enhancing its functional properties. The partially graphitized PBI‐LIG (Polybenzimidazole ‒ Laser‐induced Graphene) membranes achieved up to 94% rejection of Congo red from ethanol, with an ethanol permeance rate of 12.14 LMH bar−1—nearly twice that of standard PBI membranes. Additionally, these membranes showcased outstanding chemical stability and solvent resistance, maintaining over 99% structural integrity and experiencing <1% weight loss after prolonged exposure to various industrial solvents over a week. These results highlight the potential of laser‐graphitized PBI membranes for applications in harsh chemical conditions, paving the way for further optimization of high‐performance OSN membranes. This research advances membrane technology, merging laser engineering with materials science, and contributes to environmental sustainability and industrial efficiency.

From hiding to sharing: a knowledge hiding perspective on knowledge management in MNEs

Purpose Knowledge is a vital strategic resource for multinational enterprises (MNEs). As MNEs expand internationally, knowledge transfer through expatriates is a crucial part of the value proposition of outward foreign direct investment. However, this is undermined if knowledge is hidden rather than shared. Given the scarcity of research on knowledge hiding in MNEs, this paper aims to investigate this phenomenon among expatriates and develops a new framework to analyze knowledge hiding. Design/methodology/approach Survey data from 201 Chinese MNE expatriates is collected and analyzed using Partial Least Squares – Structural Equation Modeling to test the relationships between knowledge hiding, organizational practices, cultural intelligence and job embeddedness. Relevant organizational practices based on the ability-motivation-opportunity enhancing framework were identified, based on 24 semi-structured qualitative interviews which guided the quantitative analysis. Findings The direct effects of organizational practices on all types of knowledge hiding are limited. However, organizational practices’ influence on knowledge hiding is mediated by the cultural intelligence of expatriates, and this relationship is moderated by job embeddedness. Originality/value The research advances current thinking about knowledge management and outlines both theoretical and practical implications at organizational and societal levels. It explores the mechanisms for remedying knowledge hiding through organizational practices, including the interactive effects of cultural intelligence and job embeddedness among expatriates. Organizational knowledge management strategies in MNEs need to recognize cultural differences and improve job embeddedness to form the basis of successful knowledge transfer.

Nervous system guides behavioral immunity in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Caenorhabditis elegans is a versatile model organism for exploring complex biological systems. Microbes and the external environment can affect the nervous system and drive behavioral changes in C. elegans. For better survival, C. elegans may develop behavioral immunity to avoid potential environmental pathogens. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying this avoidance behavior are not fully understood. The dissection of sensorimotor circuits in behavioral immunity may promote advancements in research on the neuronal connectome in uncovering neuronal regulators of behavioral immunity. In this review, we discuss how the nervous system coordinates behavioral immunity by translating various pathogen-derived cues and physiological damage to motor output in response to pathogenic threats in C. elegans. This understanding may provide insights into the fundamental principles of immune strategies that can be applied across species and potentially contribute to the development of novel therapies for immune-related diseases.

Entrepreneurial University governance: The case of a Cooperative University

AbstractThis article presents a case study of the Cooperative University of Mondragon to explore the intricate processes through which higher education institutions (HEIs) adopt an entrepreneurial university (EU) framework across their three core missions: teaching, research, and community outreach. Using a qualitative research design, this study examines the organizational strategies that Mondragon University’s engineering faculty (MGEP) employs to embrace entrepreneurial behaviors (EBs), specifically by building on its peculiar cooperative governance model. The findings shed light on how MGEP, as a prominent example, leverages a long-term vision that centers its decision-making processes on entrepreneurship and the management tools and governance elements that favor collective participation and intrinsic motivation. This research advances our understanding of the evolving landscape of higher education and its entrepreneurial drift in the following ways: (1) by addressing the need for further exploration of governance in EUs; (2) by complementing existing studies on the role of university leadership in the adoption of EBs; and (3) by identifying strategies to overcome inherent barriers within large organizations that impede universities from being entrepreneurial. Overall, this study offers practical implications for the adoption of EBs in HEIs.

A Comparative Analysis of Models for AAV-Mediated Gene Therapy for Inherited Retinal Diseases.

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) represent a diverse group of genetic disorders leading to progressive degeneration of the retina due to mutations in over 280 genes. This review focuses on the various methodologies for the preclinical characterization and evaluation of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy as a potential treatment option for IRDs, particularly focusing on gene therapies targeting mutations, such as those in the RPE65 and FAM161A genes. AAV vectors, such as AAV2 and AAV5, have been utilized to deliver therapeutic genes, showing promise in preserving vision and enhancing photoreceptor function in animal models. Despite their advantages-including high production efficiency, low pathogenicity, and minimal immunogenicity-AAV-mediated therapies face limitations such as immune responses beyond the retina, vector size constraints, and challenges in large-scale manufacturing. This review systematically compares different experimental models used to investigate AAV-mediated therapies, such as mouse models, human retinal explants (HREs), and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived retinal organoids. Mouse models are advantageous for genetic manipulation and detailed investigations of disease mechanisms; however, anatomical differences between mice and humans may limit the translational applicability of results. HREs offer valuable insights into human retinal pathophysiology but face challenges such as tissue degradation and lack of systemic physiological effects. Retinal organoids, on the other hand, provide a robust platform that closely mimics human retinal development, thereby enabling more comprehensive studies on disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies, including AAV-based interventions. Specific outcomes targeted in these studies include vision preservation and functional improvements of retinas damaged by genetic mutations. This review highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each experimental model and advocates for their combined use in developing targeted gene therapies for IRDs. As research advances, optimizing AAV vector design and delivery methods will be critical for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and improving clinical outcomes for patients with IRDs.

Management of inflammaging in kidney diseases: focusing on the current investigational drugs.

To improve kidney disease treatments, it is crucial to understand how inflammaging affects patients´ longevity. We could potentially slow down kidney disease progression and enhance longevity by targeting specific pathways involved in inflammaging with potential drugs. This review offers an updated overview of 'anti-inflammaging' drugs currently in the kidney disease research pipeline, as well as those with potential for future therapeutic use. Furthermore, these drugs are categorized according to their mechanisms, including targeting inflammation, immune and metabolic regulation, oxidative stress, senescence, and autophagy, as demonstrated in preclinical and early clinical trials. Additionally, the review provides insights into key challenges and opinions for future advancements in this field. We reviewed recent advancements in applying different therapies to mitigate inflammaging in kidney diseases. We underscore the need for continued research to elucidate the complex pathways underlying inflammaging, which will be essential for the development of more precise and effective treatments. As research in this field advances, several emerging drugs appear promising for future investigation. While current findings are encouraging, further clinical studies are required to validate the therapeutic potential of these agents in kidney diseases, ultimately paving the way for more targeted and efficacious interventions.

Advances in Plant GABA Research: Biological Functions, Synthesis Mechanisms and Regulatory Pathways.

The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a widely distributed neurotransmitter in living organisms, known for its inhibitory role in animals. GABA exerts calming effects on the mind, lowers blood pressure in animals, and enhances stress resistance during the growth and development of plants. Enhancing GABA content in plants has become a focal point of current research. In plants, GABA is synthesized through two metabolic pathways, the GABA shunt and the polyamine degradation pathway, with the GABA shunt being the primary route. Extensive studies have investigated the regulatory mechanisms governing GABA synthesis. At the genetic level, GABA production and degradation can be modulated by gene overexpression, signaling molecule-induced expression, transcription factor regulation, and RNA interference. Additionally, at the level of transporter proteins, increased activity of GABA transporters and proline transporters enhances the transport of glutamate and GABA. The activity of glutamate decarboxylase, a key enzyme in GABA synthesis, along with various external factors, also influences GABA synthesis. This paper summarizes the biological functions, metabolic pathways, and regulatory mechanisms of GABA, providing a theoretical foundation for further research on GABA in plants.

Fe(II) and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases for natural product synthesis: molecular insights into reaction diversity.

Covering: up to 2024Fe(II) and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (Fe/2OG DOs) are a superfamily of enzymes that play important roles in a variety of catalytic reactions, including hydroxylation, ring formation, ring reconstruction, desaturation, and demethylation. Each member of this family has similarities in their overall structure, but they have varying specific differences, making Fe/2OG DOs attractive for catalytic diversity. With the advancement of current research, more Fe/2OG DOs have been discovered, and their catalytic scope has been further broadened; however, apart from hydroxylation, many reaction mechanisms have not been accurately demonstrated, and there is a lack of a systematic understanding of their molecular basis. Recently, an increasing number of X-ray structures of Fe/2OG DOs have provided new insights into the structural basis of their function and substrate-binding properties. This structural information is essential for understanding catalytic mechanisms and mining potential catalytic reactions. In this review, we summarize most of the Fe/2OG DOs whose structures have been resolved in recent years, focus on their structural features, and explore the relationships between various structural elements and unique catalytic mechanisms and their associated reaction type classification.

Hereditary angioedema due to C1-inhibitor deficiency: current therapeutic approaches.

For decades, treatment options for hereditary angioedema (HAE) were limited by major adverse effects, insufficient efficacy, and difficult routes of administration. However, the growing body of knowledge regarding HAE pathophysiology has led to the development of innovative drugs for self-administered, on-demand therapy and for short- and long-term prophylaxis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the approved drugs and the development of HAE treatments. The implementation of new therapies will improve the application of individualized action plans based on the key goals of minimizing the number of attacks and meeting the complex needs of patients. HAE is a rare genetic disease with a high impact on patients' quality of life due to the unpredictability and variable severity of attacks. Advances in HAE research have allowed optimization of attack management and individualization of therapeutic approaches.

Challenges and perspectives in using unspecific peroxygenases for organic synthesis

In the past 20 years, unspecific peroxygenases (UPOs) have emerged as promising biocatalysts for various organic transformations. Particularly, we have witnessed great attention being paid to the screening of new enzymes and expansion of the substrates/products. However, challenges such as enzyme stability, low turnover numbers, and substrate specificity hinder their widespread utilization in practical organic synthesis. This review article provides a concrete and mini-overview of the challenges associated with using UPOs in organic synthesis and discusses strategies for enzyme engineering to overcome these limitations. The article highlights recent advancements in UPO research and presents potential solutions to enhance their catalytic efficiency, stability, substrate specificity, and regioselectivity. Additionally, the review outlines the current methodologies employed for directed evolution and protein engineering of UPOs, along with computational modeling approaches for rational enzyme design. By addressing the challenges and exploring avenues for enzyme engineering, this review aims to shed light on the prospects of UPOs in organic synthesis.

Role of cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes pathway in diabetes and its complications.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the major causes of mortality worldwide, with inflammation being an important factor in its onset and development. This review summarizes the specific mechanisms of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway in mediating inflammatory responses. Furthermore, it comprehensively presents related research progress and the subsequent involvement of this pathway in the pathogenesis of early-stage DM, diabetic gastroenteropathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and other complications. Additionally, the role of cGAS-STING in autonomic dysfunction and intestinal dysregulation, which can lead to digestive complications, has been discussed. Altogether, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the research advances regarding the cGAS-STING pathway-targeted therapeutic agents and the prospects for their application in the precision treatment of DM.

Integration of nanomaterials in FDM for enhanced surface properties: Optimized manufacturing approaches

This article presents a comprehensive review of advanced techniques for integrating nanomaterials into fused deposition modeling (FDM) processes, addressing prevalent challenges such as limited surface quality and wear resistance in traditional FDM-printed parts. The integration of nanomaterials offers potential solutions to these issues by enhancing surface properties. This review explores key methodologies, including direct nanoparticle mixing with polymer filaments, in-situ polymerization, and surface coating techniques, and demonstrates their impact on improving surface roughness and wear resistance. Specifically, nanomaterial-enhanced composites achieve up to a 30% reduction in surface roughness and a 40% improvement in wear resistance compared to conventional materials. To optimize manufacturing processes, we apply the Taguchi method to identify critical process parameters such as extrusion temperature, print speed, layer thickness, and nanoparticle concentration that influence surface properties. Our simulations and analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicate that optimal settings can enhance surface quality by 25% and improve wear resistance by 35%. The proposed methodologies and theoretical framework lay the groundwork for experimental validation, which will involve testing the optimized parameters and assessing their practical impact. This research advances the field of additive manufacturing by providing novel insights into nanomaterial integration, paving the way for improved FDM technology with applications spanning aerospace, biomedical engineering, and beyond. The findings contribute significantly to overcoming existing limitations and enhancing the performance of FDM-printed parts.

A life course approach to political preference formation across social classes

While social class has received renewed attention as a driver of political conflict in Western democracies, little is known about when political differences by classes emerge and consolidate. Are they a direct consequence of individuals’ economic prospects and daily experiences on the job, or are they driven by a sorting process responding to family origin and earlier formative experiences? This study applies a life course approach to identify the impact of (future) social classes during early adulthood, in the transition to employment, and the transition to the main class of destination. These longitudinal analyses using British and Swiss panel data allow for adjudicating the stage(s) at which political preferences become more marked across social classes. The results indicate that differences by (future) class are apparent early in life, and that they consolidate during employment. This research advances current and historical debates about social class as a relevant milieu of political socialisation and public opinion formation.