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Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F. A. Barkley is a tree species used primarily for lacquer production. Our study utilized transcriptome and metabolomic analysis to investigate the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids and flavonoids, specifically the glycosylated forms, in T. vernicifluum roots, stems, and leaves. HPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS identified 186 compounds, with tissue‐specific distributions revealed by PCA. Flavonoids and phenylpropanoids glycosides were significantly more abundant in leaves compared with roots and stems. Full‐length sequencing uncovered 17,266 transcripts in T. vernicifluum. Gene expression analysis showed higher activity of phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways in leaves. Certain genes, such as CYP73A, 4CL, CRR, CYP84A/F5H, and CYP93C, displayed associations with compound content distributions. Root tissue exhibited a higher concentration of isoflavones. Notably, glycosyltransferase expression demonstrated significant correlations with glycosylated compounds' content. Biochemical validation confirmed the involvement of TvPB_c0_g2904, encoding a UDP‐glucosyltransferase, in genistin biosynthesis in T. vernicifluum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tantalum, in its most stable Ta 2 O 5 oxide form, has long been recognized as a superior coating material in orthopedic applications. In this study, the ideal mechanical strengths of I41/amd, Cmmm, C2/c, Pm, and Pbam phases of Ta 2 O 5 are investigated from first-principles calculation, where the stress–strain curves under various deformation strains are obtained and the structural evolution in terms of atomic bonding is analyzed. The results reveal that these stable Ta 2 O 5 polymorphs show unusual mechanical strengths on their high symmetric crystalline planes. Shear super-plasticity is found on the (001) crystalline plane of the I41/amd phase in any shear direction. Shear strain-stiffening exists on the (100) crystalline plane of the Pm phase in the shear direction within an angle of ± 18 ° along the [001] direction. Both shear super-plasticity and shear strain-stiffening make these crystalline planes be able to sustain excessively large shear deformations. Large and isotropic shear strengths are predicted on the (010) crystalline planes of Pm and Pbam phases with nearly identical maximum and minimum peak shear stresses approaching 15 GPa. Much stronger compression and tensile strengths are obtained normal to the (010) crystalline plane of the C2/c phase due to its special spring-like bonding structure, which can endure the compression deformation up to 30%. These findings provide guidance for selecting suitable phases of Ta 2 O 5 and growth directions with crystalline planes possessing excellent mechanical properties in applications of Ta 2 O 5 as a coating material on Ti alloys for biomedical replacements of damaged human organs, such as hip joints, dental implants, and artificial hearts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal keratitis (FK) is a dangerous corneal infection that is common in tropical and subtropical areas. Its incidence is extremely high, and ocular trauma and contact lenses can lead to FK, but its common treatment such as using topical antifungal eye drop instillation is often less effective because of several drawbacks of the drugs typically used, including limited ocular penetration, high frequency of dosing, poor biocompatibility, and the potential for severe drug reactions. Therefore, the development of novel drug delivery devices for the treatment of FK is urgent. The urgent need for novel drug delivery devices to treat FK has led to the development of several techniques, including nanoparticles (NPs), in situ forming hydrogels, contact lenses, and microneedles (MNs). However, it is important to note that the main mechanisms differ between these techniques. NPs can transport large amounts of drugs and be taken up by cells owing to their large surface area and small size. In situ forming hydrogels can significantly extend the residence time of drugs because of their strong adhesive properties. Contact lenses, with their comfortable shape and drug-carrying capacity, can also act as drug delivery devices. MNs can create channels in the cornea, bypassing its barrier and enhancing drug bioavailability. This article will go over novel medication delivery techniques for treating FK and make a conclusion about their advantages and limitations in anticipation to serve the best option for the individual therapy of FK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]