Eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoids: Structural diversity and biological activity.

Sesquiterpenoids are integral constituents of terpenoid-bearing plants, comprising a diverse and abundant class of natural compounds, among which eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoids have bicyclic structures that feature the fusion of two six-membered carbon rings, thereby attracting considerable attention. They are widespread in nature, with multifaceted biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, antimalarial, and insecticidal activities, thus gaining focus in life science research. The discovery and identification of these active compounds have laid a foundation for unraveling their potential medicinal value. In this review, we comprehensively explore the natural eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoids isolated (totaling 391 compounds) between 2016 and 2022, elucidating their chemical structures, plant distribution patterns, and pertinent biological properties. Accordingly, the study serves not only as a framework for researchers to thoroughly comprehend these compounds but also as a robust reference for future endeavors aimed at exploring the pharmaceutical potential and prospective applications of these molecules.

Examining Self-Regulation and Problematic Smartphone Use in Canadian Adolescents: A Parallel Latent Growth Modeling Approach.

Despite extensive research on the prevalence and mental health implications of problematic smartphone use in adolescents, the cognitive mechanisms underpinning its development, such as self-regulation, remain underexplored. This study aims to fill this research gap by investigating the developmental trajectories of self-regulation and problematic smartphone use among Canadian adolescents. Participants (N = 1303; 614 girls; Mage = 14.60 years, SD = 1.16 years) attended one of five public high schools in Southern British Columbia. Adolescents self-reported their self-regulation skills, as well as problematic smartphone use annually for three years. In line with developmental expectations, results indicated that both self-regulation and problematic smartphone use increased across the three years. Parallel latent growth models revealed significant intercept and positive slope differences for self-regulation and problematic smartphone use, showing that higher initial self-regulation predicted lower initial problematic smartphone use, and vice versa. Girls exhibited higher initial levels of problematic smartphone use, but gender differences in developmental trajectories were not observed. These findings emphasize the importance of early self-regulation skills in preventing the escalation of problematic smartphone use in adolescents, providing evidence-based insights for developing targeted interventions.

Garnet-Based Solid Li-Metal Batteries Operable under High External Pressure with HCOOH-Induced Electron-Blocking and Lithiophilic Interlayer.

Despite good compatibility with Li metal, garnet solid electrolytes suffer from severe electron-attack-induced Li-metal penetration and large interfacial resistance. Here, a formic acid (HCOOH)-induced electron-blocking and lithiophilic interlayer is created via a spontaneous reaction with surface Li2CO3 contamination on the garnet electrolyte (LLZTO) pellet. Unlike previous methods that involved immersing LLZTO in acidic solutions, this study employs a volatile small-molecule organic acid that is easily removable, condensed, and recyclable, thus circumventing the environmental drawbacks associated with acid waste. The Li symmetric cell assembled with HCOOH-treated LLZTO exhibits a low interfacial impedance (3 Ω cm2) and a high critical current density (1.7 mA cm-2) at room temperature, enabling the cell to cycle continuously for over 1000 h at 0.2 mA cm-2. Furthermore, under a stacking pressure of 2 MPa, stable lithium plating/stripping was achieved at a current density of 0.3 mA cm-2 with the assistance of HCOOH treatment. Additionally, the battery paired with a LiFePO4 cathode delivers a high capacity of 151.7 mAh g-1 at 1 C and maintains 88.5% of the initial capacity after 500 cycles, suggesting the feasibility of this interfacial engineering strategy for garnet-based solid Li-metal batteries.

Exploring the HIF-1α signalling pathway and the mechanism of YiQiHuoXue decoction against Precancerous Lesions of Gastric Cancer based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking.

Precancerous Lesions of Gastric Cancer (PLGC) are an essential step in the advancement of Gastric cancer (GC). Early intervention represents the most effective strategy to impede the development of PLGC. However, additional research is necessary to comprehend the molecular mechanism of PLGC. YQHXD is originated from Si Wu Decoction, has been utilized as an empirical formula for the treatment of PLGC for several years. In this study, we employed network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation to examine the inhibitory and ameliorative properties of YQHXD on PLGC. Multiple databases were utilized to gather genetic information on drugs in PLGC and YQHXD, in order to obtain cross-targets. We discovered 142 common targets between YQHXD and PLGC. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicate that YQHXD treatment of PLGC might be linked with cellular response to oxygen levels and the HIF-1α signaling pathway. Finally, we performed in vitro experiments, of which the results reveal that YQHXD mitigates gastric mucosal atrophy, intestinalization, and heterogeneous hyperplasia, and reduces the expression of inflammatory factors in rats. Therefore, we considered that YQHXD has the potential to delay the PLGC process by inhibiting the HIF-1α signaling pathway.

Dynamic three-dimensional liver volume assessment of liver regeneration in hilar cholangiocarcinoma patients undergoing hemi-hepatectomy.

Background: For patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HC) undergoing hemi-hepatectomy, there are controversies regarding the requirement of, indications for, and timing of preoperative biliary drainage (PBD). Dynamic three-dimensional volume reconstruction could effectively evaluate the regeneration of liver after surgery, which may provide assistance for exploring indications for PBD and optimal preoperative bilirubin value. The purpose of this study was to explore the indications for PBD and the optimal preoperative bilirubin value to improve prognosis for HC patients undergoing hemi-hepatectomy. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of HC patients who underwent hemi-hepatectomy in the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University from 2012 to 2023. The liver regeneration rate was calculated using three-dimensional volume reconstruction. We analyzed the factors affecting the liver regeneration rate and occurrence of postoperative liver insufficiency. Results: This study involved 83 patients with HC, which were divided into PBD group (n=36) and non-PBD group (n=47). The preoperative bilirubin level may be an independent risk factor affecting the liver regeneration rate (P=0.014) and postoperative liver insufficiency (P=0.016, odds ratio=1.016, ß=0.016, 95% CI=1.003-1.029). For patients whose initial bilirubin level was >200 µmol/L (n=45), PBD resulted in better liver regeneration in the early stage (P=0.006) and reduced the incidence of postoperative liver insufficiency [P=0.012, odds ratio=0.144, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.031-0.657]. The cut-off value of bilirubin was 103.15 µmol/L based on the liver regeneration rate. Patients with a preoperative bilirubin level of ≤103.15 µmol/L shown a better liver regeneration (P<0.01) and lower incidence of postoperative hepatic insufficiency (P=0.011, odds ratio=0.067, 95% CI=0.008-0.537). Conclusion: For HC patients undergoing hemi-hepatectomy whose initial bilirubin level is >200 µmol/L, PBD may result in better liver regeneration and reduce the incidence of postoperative liver insufficiency. Preoperative bilirubin levels ≤103.15 µmol/L maybe recommended for leading to a better liver regeneration and lower incidence of postoperative hepatic insufficiency.

Unveiling the aesthetic secrets: exploring connections between genetic makeup, chemical, and environmental factors for enhancing/improving the color and fragrance/aroma of Chimonanthus praecox.

Floral color and scent profiles vary across species, geographical locations, and developmental stages. The exclusive floral color and fragrance of Chimonanthus praecox is contributed by a range of endogenous chemicals that distinguish it from other flowers and present amazing ornamental value. This comprehensive review explores the intricate interplay of environmental factors, chemicals and genes shaping the flower color and fragrance of Chimonanthus praecox. Genetic and physiological factors control morpho-anatomical attributes as well as pigment synthesis, while environmental factors such as temperature, light intensity, and soil composition influence flower characteristics. Specific genes control pigment synthesis, and environmental factors such as temperature, light intensity, and soil composition influence flower characteristics. Physiological processes including plant hormone contribute to flower color and fragrance. Hormones, notably ethylene, exert a profound influence on varioustraits. Pigment investigations have spotlighted specific flavonoids, including kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside, quercetin, and rutin. Red tepals exhibit unique composition with cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside being distinctive components. Elucidating the molecular basis of tepal color variation, particularly in red and yellow varieties, involves the identification of crucial regulatory genes. In conclusion, this review unravels the mysteries of Chimonanthus praecox, providing a holistic understanding of its flower color and fragrance for landscape applications. This comprehensive review uniquely explores the genetic intricacies, chemical and environmental influences that govern the mesmerizing flower color and fragrance of Chimonanthus praecox, providing valuable insights for its landscape applications. This review article is designed for a diverse audience, including plant geneticists, horticulturists, environmental scientists, urban planners, and students, offering understandings into the genetic intricacies, ecological significance, and practical applications of Chimonanthus praecox across various disciplines. Its appeal extends to professionals and enthusiasts interested in plant biology, conservation, and industries dependent on unique floral characteristics.

Detection of clinical Serratia marcescens isolates carrying blaKPC-2 in a hospital in China.

Serratia marcescens is an opportunistic and nosocomial pathogen found in the intensive care unit (ICU), but its antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rarely addressed. Here, we reported two blaKPC-2-positive S. marcescens strains, SMBC31 and SMBC50, recovered from the ICU of a hospital in Zhengzhou, China. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the broth microdilution method, while S1-PFGE was employed to demonstrate plasmid size approximation. Complete genome sequences were obtained through Illumina NovaSeq 6000 and Oxford Nanopore Technologies. Both strains exhibit resistance to meropenem and harbor the blaKPC-2 and blaSRT-1 resistance genes. The plasmid pSMBC31-39K in strain SMBC31 and pSMBC50-107K in strain SMBC50 were identified as carrying the blaKPC-2 gene. Notably, both of these plasmids were successfully transferred to Escherichia coli strain J53. Phylogenetic analysis based on plasmid sequences revealed that pSMBC31-39K exhibited high homology with plasmids found in Aeromonas caviae, Citrobacter sp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while pSMBC50-107K showed significant similarity to those of E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Notably, the coexistence of blaKPC-2 and blaSRT-1 was observed in all 94 KPC-2-producing S. marcescens strains by mining all genomes available under the GenBank database, which were mainly isolated from hospitalized patients. The emergence of multidrug-resistant S. marcescens poses significant challenges in treating clinical infections, highlighting the need for increased surveillance of this pathogen.

Detection of chromosomal instability using ultrasensitive chromosomal aneuploidy detection in the diagnosis of precancerous lesions of gastric cancer.

Background: The diagnosis of Precancerous Lesions of Gastric Cancer (PLGC) is challenging in clinical practice. We conducted a clinical study by analyzing the information of relevant chromosome copy number variations (CNV) in the TCGA database followed by the UCAD technique to evaluate the value of Chromosomal Instability (CIN) assay in the diagnosis of PLGC. Methods: Based on the screening of gastric cancer related data in TCGA database, CNV analysis was performed to explore the information of chromosome CNV related to gastric cancer. Based on the gastroscopic pathology results, 12 specimens of patients with severe atrophy were screened to analyze the paraffin specimens of gastric mucosa by UCAD technology, and to explore the influence of related factors on them. Results: The results of CNV in TCGA database suggested that chromosome 7, 8, and 17 amplification was obvious in patients with gastric cancer. UCAD results confirmed that in 12 patients with pathologic diagnosis of severe atrophy, five of them had positive results of CIN, with a positive detection rate of 41.7%, which was mainly manifested in chromosome seven and chromosome eight segments amplification. We also found that intestinalization and HP infection were less associated with CIN. And the sensitivity of CIN measurement results was significantly better than that of tumor indicators. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the diagnosis of PLGC can be aided by UCAD detection of CIN, of which Chr7 and 8 may be closely related to PLGC.

Antifreezing, Antidrying, and Conductive Hydrogels for Electronic Skin Applications at Ultralow Temperatures.

Although conductive hydrogel-based flexible electronic devices have superb flexibility and high conductivities, they tend to malfunction in dry or frigid areas. Herein, an ultralow-temperature tolerant, antidrying, and conductive composite hydrogel is designed for electronic skin applications on the basis of the synergy of double-cross-linked polymer networks, Hofmeister effect, and electrostatic interaction and fabricated by in situ free radical polymerization of 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid and acrylic acid in the presence of poly(vinyl alcohol) and conductive MXene sheets, followed by impregnation with LiCl. Thanks to the synergy of LiCl and the charged polar terminal groups of the synthesized polymers, the composite hydrogel can not only bear an ultralow temperature of -80 °C without freezing but also maintain its original mass. Meanwhile, the resultant hydrogel possesses satisfactory self-regeneration ability benefiting from the moisturizing effect of LiCl. The conductive network of MXene sheets greatly improves the ionic conductivity of the hydrogel at low temperatures, exhibiting an ionic conductivity of 1.4 S m-1 at -80 °C. Furthermore, the electronic skin assembled by the multifunctional hydrogel is efficient in monitoring human motions at -80 °C. The antifreezing and antidrying features along with favorable ionic conductivity, high tensile strength, and outstanding flexibility make the composite hydrogel promising for applications in frigid and dry regions.

An Appearance-Semantic Descriptor with Coarse-to-Fine Matching for Robust VPR.

In recent years, semantic segmentation has made significant progress in visual place recognition (VPR) by using semantic information that is relatively invariant to appearance and viewpoint, demonstrating great potential. However, in some extreme scenarios, there may be semantic occlusion and semantic sparsity, which can lead to confusion when relying solely on semantic information for localization. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel VPR framework that employs a coarse-to-fine image matching strategy, combining semantic and appearance information to improve algorithm performance. First, we construct SemLook global descriptors using semantic contours, which can preliminarily screen images to enhance the accuracy and real-time performance of the algorithm. Based on this, we introduce SemLook local descriptors for fine screening, combining robust appearance information extracted by deep learning with semantic information. These local descriptors can address issues such as semantic overlap and sparsity in urban environments, further improving the accuracy of the algorithm. Through this refined screening process, we can effectively handle the challenges of complex image matching in urban environments and obtain more accurate results. The performance of SemLook descriptors is evaluated on three public datasets (Extended-CMU Season, Robot-Car Seasons v2, and SYNTHIA) and compared with six state-of-the-art VPR algorithms (HOG, CoHOG, AlexNet_VPR, Region VLAD, Patch-NetVLAD, Forest). In the experimental comparison, considering both real-time performance and evaluation metrics, the SemLook descriptors are found to outperform the other six algorithms. Evaluation metrics include the area under the curve (AUC) based on the precision-recall curve, Recall@100%Precision, and Precision@100%Recall. On the Extended-CMU Season dataset, SemLook descriptors achieve a 100% AUC value, and on the SYNTHIA dataset, they achieve a 99% AUC value, demonstrating outstanding performance. The experimental results indicate that introducing global descriptors for initial screening and utilizing local descriptors combining both semantic and appearance information for precise matching can effectively address the issue of location recognition in scenarios with semantic ambiguity or sparsity. This algorithm enhances descriptor performance, making it more accurate and robust in scenes with variations in appearance and viewpoint.

Identification of Candidate Expansin Genes Associated with Seed Weight in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.).

Seed weight is an important target trait in pomegranate breeding and culture. Expansins act by loosening plant cell walls and cellulosic materials, permitting turgor-driven cell enlargement. However, the role of expansin genes (EXPs) in pomegranate seed weight remains elusive. A total of 29 PgrEXPs were identified in the 'Dabenzi' genome. These genes were classified into four subfamilies and 14 subgroups, including 22 PgrEXPAs, 5 PgrEXPBs, 1 PgrEXPLA, and 1 PgrEXPLB. Transcriptome analysis of PgrEXPs in different tissues (root, leaf, flower, peel, and seed testa) in 'Dabenzi', and the seed testa of the hard-seeded pomegranate cultivar 'Dabenzi' and soft-seeded cultivar 'Tunisia' at three development stages showed that three PgrEXPs (PgrEXPA11, PgrEXPA22, PgrEXPA6) were highly expressed throughout seed development, especially in the sarcotesta. SNP/Indel markers of these PgrEXPs were developed and used to genotype 101 pomegranate accessions. The association of polymorphic PgrEXPs with seed weight-related traits (100-seed weight, 100-kernel weight, 100-sarcotesta weight, and the percentage of 100-sarcotesta to 100-seed weight) were analyzed. PgrEXP22 was significantly associated with 100-seed weight and 100-sarcotesta weight and is a likely candidate for regulating seed weight and sarcotesta development in particular. This study provides an effective tool for the genetic improvement of seed weight in pomegranate breeding programs.

Prospects in the application of ultrasensitive chromosomal aneuploidy detection in precancerous lesions of gastric cancer.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent malignant tumor within the digestive system, with over 40% of new cases and deaths related to GC globally occurring in China. Despite advancements in treatment modalities, such as surgery supplemented by adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapeutic agents, the prognosis for GC remains poor. New targeted therapies and immunotherapies are currently under investigation, but no significant breakthroughs have been achieved. Studies have indicated that GC is a heterogeneous disease, encompassing multiple subtypes with distinct biological characteristics and roles. Consequently, personalized treatment based on clinical features, pathologic typing, and molecular typing is crucial for the diagnosis and management of precancerous lesions of gastric cancer (PLGC). Current research has categorized GC into four subtypes: Epstein-Barr virus-positive, microsatellite instability, genome stability, and chromosome instability (CIN). Technologies such as multi-omics analysis and gene sequencing are being employed to identify more suitable novel testing methods in these areas. Among these, ultrasensitive chromosomal aneuploidy detection (UCAD) can detect CIN at a genome-wide level in subjects using low-depth whole genome sequencing technology, in conjunction with bioinformatics analysis, to achieve qualitative and quantitative detection of chromosomal stability. This editorial reviews recent research advancements in UCAD technology for the diagnosis and management of PLGC.

Locational and functional characterization of PI4KB in the mouse embryo.

Phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase beta (PI4KB) is a member of the PI4K family, which is mainly enriched and functions in the Golgi apparatus. The kinase domain of PI4KB catalyzes the phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol to form phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate, a process that regulates various sub-cellular events, such as non-vesicular cholesterol and ceramide transport, protein glycosylation, and vesicle transport, as well as cytoplasmic division. In this study, a strain of PI4KB knockout mouse, immunofluorescence, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and microinjection were used to characterize the cytological location and biological function of PI4KB in the mouse embryos. we found that knocking down Pi4kb in mouse embryos resulted in embryonic lethality at around embryonic day (E) 7.5. Additionally, we observed dramatic fluctuations in PI4KB expression during the development of preimplantation embryos, with high expression in the 4-cell and morula stages. PI4KB colocalized with the Golgi marker protein TGN46 in the perinuclear and cytoplasmic regions in early blastomeres. Postimplantation, PI4KB was highly expressed in the epiblast of E7.5 embryos. Treatment of embryos with PI4KB inhibitors was found to inhibit the development of the morula into a blastocyst and the normal progression of cytoplasmic division during the formation of a 4-cell embryo. These findings suggest that PI4KB plays an important role in mouse embryogenesis by regulating various intracellular vital functions of embryonic cells.

Silicon-Compatible Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions with a SiO2/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Composite Barrier as Low-Voltage and Ultra-High-Speed Memristors.

The big data era requires ultrafast, low-power, and silicon-compatible materials and devices for information storage and processing. Here, ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs) based on SiO2/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 composite barrier and both conducting electrodes are designed and fabricated on Si substrates. The FTJ achieves the fastest write speed of 500 ps under 5 V (2 orders of magnitude faster than reported silicon-compatible FTJs) or 10 ns speed at a low voltage of 1.5 V (the lowest voltage among FTJs at similar speeds), low write current density of 1.3 × 104 A cm-2, 8 discrete states, good retention > 105 s at 85 °C, and endurance > 107. In addition, it provides a large read current (88 A cm-2) at 0.1 V, 2 orders of magnitude larger than reported FTJs. Interestingly, in FTJ-based synapses, gradually tunable conductance states (128 states) with high linearity (<1) are obtained by 10 ns pulses of <1.2 V, and a high accuracy of 91.8% in recognizing fashion product images is achieved by online neural network simulations. These results highlight that silicon-compatible HfO2-based FTJs are promising for high-performance nonvolatile memories and electrical synapses.

An SMS text messaging intervention to improve clinical engagement in early psychosis: A pilot randomized-controlled trial.

Disengagement of youth with psychosis from Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) services continues to be a significant barrier to recovery, with approximately one-third prematurely discontinuing treatment despite the ongoing need. The current pilot trial sought to evaluate the preliminary efficacy and feasibility of a weekly short message service (SMS) intervention to improve engagement in EPI services. This was a longitudinal single-blinded randomized control trial in which participants were assigned to receive either an active or sham SMS intervention over nine months. Sixty-one participants with early psychosis between the ages of 16 and 29 were enrolled, randomized, and received at least part of the intervention. Primary outcomes consisted of participant clinic attendance rates over the course of the intervention and clinician-rated engagement. Secondary measures included patient-rated therapeutic rapport, attitude toward medication, psychopathology, cognition, functioning, and intervention feedback from participants. Compared to the sham group, participants receiving the active intervention did not show improved appointment attendance rates; however, did exhibit some improvements in aspects of engagement, including improved clinician-rated availability, attitude toward medication, positive symptoms, avolition-apathy and social functioning. Thus, contrary to our hypotheses, digitally augmented care did not result in enhanced engagement in EPI services, as measured by clinic attendance, although with some indication that it may contribute to improved attitude toward medication and, potentially, medication adherence. Weekly SMS text messaging appeared to result in a pattern of engagement whereby individuals who were improving clinically attended appointments less often, possibly due to inadvertent use of the intervention to check in with clinicians. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04379349).

Enhanced Bone Regeneration through Regulation of Mechanoresponsive FAK-ERK1/2 Signaling by ZINC40099027 during Distraction Osteogenesis.

Background: Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is activated by mechanical stimulation and plays a vital role in distraction osteogenesis (DO), a well-established but lengthy procedure for repairing large bone defects. Both angiogenesis and osteogenesis contribute to bone regeneration during DO. However, the effects of ZINC40099027 (ZN27), a potent FAK activator, on angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and bone regeneration in DO remain unknown. Methods: The angiogenic potential of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was evaluated using transwell migration and tube formation assays. The osteogenic activity of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) was assessed using alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin red s (ARS) staining. Additionally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot, and immunofluorescence staining were used to assay angiogenic markers, osteogenic markers, and FAK-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling. In vivo, a rat tibia DO model was established to verify the effects of ZN27 on neovascularization and bone regeneration using radiological and histological analyses. Results: ZN27 promoted the migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs. Additionally, ZN27 facilitated the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, as revealed by increased ALP activity, calcium deposition, and expression of osteogenesis-specific markers. The ERK1/2-specific inhibitor PD98059 significantly hindered the effects of ZN27, suggesting the participation of FAK-ERK1/2 signaling in ZN27-enhanced angiogenesis and osteogenesis. As indicated by improved radiological and histological features, ZN27 induced active angiogenesis within the distraction area and accelerated bone regeneration in a rat DO model. Conclusion: Our results show that ZN27 targets FAK-ERK1/2 signaling to stimulate both angiogenesis and osteogenesis, and ZN27 accelerates bone regeneration in DO, suggesting the therapeutic potential of ZN27 for repairing large bone defects in the mechanobiological environment during DO.

Chromosome-level genome of Ambrosia trifida provides insights into adaptation and the evolution of pollen allergens.

Ambrosia trifida (giant ragweed) is an invasive plant that can cause serious damage to natural ecosystems and severe respiratory allergies. However, the genomic basis of invasive adaptation and pollen allergens in Ambrosia species remain largely unknown. Here, we present a 1.66 Gb chromosome-scale reference genome for giant ragweed and identified multiple types of genome duplications, which are responsible for its rapid environmental adaptation and pollen development. The largest copies number and species-specific expansions of resistance-related gene families compared to Heliantheae alliance might contribute to resist stresses, pathogens and rapid adaptation. To extend the knowledge of evolutionary process of allergic pollen proteins, we predicted 26 and 168 potential pollen allergen candidates for giant ragweed and other Asteraceae plant species by combining machine learning and identity screening. Interestingly, we observed a specific tandemly repeated array for potential allergenic pectate lyases among Ambrosia species. Rapid evolutionary rates on putative pectate lyase allergens may imply a crucial role of nonsynonymous mutations on amino acid residues for plant biological function and allergenicity. Altogether, this study provides insight into the molecular ecological adaptation and putative pollen allergens prediction that will be helpful in promoting invasion genomic research and evolution of putative pollen allergy in giant ragweed.

Plasma-Induced 2D Electron Transport at Hetero-Phase Titanium Oxide Interface.

Interfaces of metal oxide heterojunctions display a variety of intriguing physical properties that enable novel applications in spintronics, quantum information, neuromorphic computing, and high-temperature superconductivity. One such LaAlO3 /SrTiO3 (LAO/STO) heterojunction hosts a 2D electron liquid (2DEL) presenting remarkable 2D superconductivity and magnetism. However, these remarkable properties emerge only at very low temperatures, while the heterostructure fabrication is challenging even at the laboratory scale, thus impeding practical applications. Here, a novel plasma-enabled fabrication concept is presented to develop the TiO2 /Ti3 O4 hetero-phase bilayer with a 2DEL that exhibits features of a weakly localized Fermi liquid even at room temperature. The hetero-phase bilayer is fabricated by applying a rapid plasma-induced phase transition that transforms a specific portion of anatase TiO2 thin film into vacancy-prone Ti3 O4 in seconds. The underlying mechanism relies on the screening effect of the achieved high-density electron liquid that suppresses the electron-phonon interactions. The achieved "adiabatic" electron transport in the hetero-phase bilayer offers strong potential for low-loss electric or plasmonic circuits and hot electron harvesting and utilization. These findings open new horizons for fabricating diverse multifunctional metal oxide heterostructures as an innovative platform for emerging clean energy, integrated photonics, spintronics, and quantum information technologies.

Facile Blending Strategy for Boosting the Conjugated Polymer Semiconductor Transistor's Mobility.

The optimization of field-effect mobility in polymer field-effect transistors (FETs) is a critical parameter for advancing organic electronics. Today, many challenges still persist in understanding the roles of the design and processing of semiconducting polymers toward electronic performance. To address this, a facile approach to solution processing using blends of PDPP-TVT and PTPA-3CN is developed, resulting in a 3.5-fold increase in hole mobility and retained stability in electrical performance over 3 cm2 V-1 s-1 after 20 weeks. The amorphous D-A conjugated structure and strong intramolecular polarity of PTPA-3CN are identified as major contributors to the observed improvements in mobility. Additionally, the composite analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and the flash differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique showed a uniform distribution and was well mixed in binary polymer systems. This mobility enhancement technique has also been successfully applied to other polymer semiconductor systems, offering a new design strategy for blending-type organic transistor systems. This blending methodology holds great promise for the practical applications of OFETs.

Ultralow Subthreshold Swing of a MOSFET Caused by Ferroelectric Polarization Reversal of Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Thin Films.

The emergence of complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible HfO2-based ferroelectric materials provides a promising way to achieve ferroelectric field-effect transistors (FeFETs) with a steep subthreshold swing (SS) reduced to below the Boltzmann thermodynamics limit (∼60 mV/dec at room temperature), which has important implications for lowering power consumption. In this work, a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) is connected with Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO)-based ferroelectric capacitors with different capacitances. By adjusting the capacitance of ferroelectric capacitors, an ultralow SS of ∼0.34 mV/dec in HfO2-based FeFETs can be achieved. More interestingly, by designing the sweeping voltage sequences, the SS can be adjusted to be 0 mV/dec with the drain current ranging over six orders of magnitude, and the threshold voltage for turning on the MOSFET can be further reduced. The manipulated SS could be attributed to the evolution of ferroelectric switching. Our work contributes to understanding the origin of ultralow SS in ferroelectric MOSFETs and the realization of low-power devices.