bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Putting ICAP to the test: how technology-enhanced learning activities are related to cognitive and affective-motivational learning outcomes in higher education
Authors: Wekerle Christina , Daumiller Martin , Janke Stefan , Dickhäuser Oliver , Dresel Markus , Kollar Ingo
Published: July 2024

Digital technology is considered to have great potential to promote learning in higher education. In line with the Interactive, Constructive, Active, Passive (ICAP) framework, this seems to be particularly true when instructors stimulate high-quality learning activities such as constructive and interactive learning activities instead of active and passive learning activities. Against the background of a lack of empirical studies in authentic, technology-enhanced instructional settings, we investigated the cognitive and affective-motivational effects of these learning activity modes in technology-enhanced higher education courses. To this end, we used 3.820 student assessments regarding 170 course sessions for which the teachers stated the learning activities students were engaged in. Results of multilevel structural equation modelling highlight the importance of technology-enhanced interactive learning activities for students’ perception of learning and the potential negative consequences of passive learning activities for affective-motivational outcomes. However, the superiority of constructive and interactive learning activities compared to passive and active learning activities for cognitive and affective-motivational outcomes was not supported by the findings. Instead, the findings point to potential differential effects of the individual learning activities within one activity mode. Future research should follow up on these effects to gain a more fine-grained understanding of how technology-enhanced learning activities can be optimized to enhance students’ learning outcomes.
Investigation of [11C]carfentanil for mu opioid receptor quantification in the rat brain
Authors: Kelleher Andrew C. , Pearson Torben D. , Ramsey Joseph , Zhao Wenjing , O’Conor Kelly A. , Bakhoda Abolghasem , Stodden Tyler , Guo Min , Eisenberg Seth M. , Shah Sarthak V. , Freaney Michael L. , Kim Woochan , Kang Yeona , Tomasi Dardo , Johnson Christopher , Fang Chung-An , Volkow Nora D. , Kim Sung Won
Published: July 2024

[11C]Carfentanil ([11C]CFN) is the only selective carbon-11 labeled radiotracer currently available for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of mu opioid receptors (MORs). Though used extensively in clinical research, [11C]CFN has not been thoroughly characterized as a tool for preclinical PET imaging. As we were occasionally observing severe vital sign instability in rat [11C]CFN studies, we set out to investigate physiological effects of CFN mass and to explore its influence on MOR quantification. In anesthetized rats (n = 15), significant dose-dependent PCO2 increases and heart rate decreases were observed at a conventional tracer dose range (IV, > 100 ng/kg). Next, we conducted baseline and retest [11C]CFN PET scans over a wide range of molar activities. Baseline [11C]CFN PET studies (n = 27) found that nondisplaceable binding potential (BPND) in the thalamus was positively correlated to CFN injected mass, demonstrating increase of MOR availability at higher injected CFN mass. Consistently, when CFN injected mass was constrained < 40 ng/kg (~ 10% MOR occupancy in rats), baseline MOR availability was significantly decreased. For test–retest variability (TRTV), better reproducibility was achieved by controlling CFN injected mass to limit the difference between scans. Taken together, we report significant cardiorespiratory depression and a paradoxical influence on baseline MOR availability at conventional tracer doses in rats. Our findings might reflect changes in cerebral blood flow, changes in receptor affinity, or receptor internalization, and merits further mechanistic investigation. In conclusion, rat [11C]CFN PET requires stringent quality assurance of radiotracer synthesis and mass injected to avoid pharmacological effects and limit potential influences on MOR quantification and reproducibility.
Nationwide incidence of and risk factors for undergoing incisional glaucoma surgery following infantile cataract surgery
Authors: Choe Sooyeon , Kim Young Kook , Ha Ahnul
Published: July 2024

Nationwide incidence and risk factors for incisional glaucoma surgery post-infantile cataract (IC) surgery in children remain poorly understood. We conducted a population-based cohort study using the Korean national health claims database to identify IC patients diagnosed before age 1 who had IC surgery among all Korean born between 2008 and 2018 (n = 9,593,003). We estimated the annual occurrence of undergoing incisional glaucoma surgery following IC surgery in the general population aged 0–10. The risk factors for incisional surgery including systemic comorbidities and ophthalmic anomalies were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression. Of 650 patients who had undergone IC surgery with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) follow-up period of 6.2 (3.2) years, 92 (14.2%) were diagnosed with glaucoma following infantile cataract surgery (GFICS). Among them, 21 patients (22.8%) underwent incisional glaucoma surgery after a mean (SD) follow-up duration of 5.4 (2.8) years from the diagnosis of GFICS. Median (InterQuartile Range) age at incisional surgery was 4 (2,6) years old. Twenty of 21 patients (95.2%) underwent incisional glaucoma surgery within 3 years of diagnosis of GFICS. No factors, except younger age at glaucoma diagnosis (P = 0.03), were associated with undergoing incisional surgery. These findings can better understand the epidemiologic features and clinical courses of GFICS.
Fractional order cancer model infection in human with CD8+ T cells and anti-PD-L1 therapy: simulations and control strategy
Authors: Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Kulachi Muhammad Owais , Ahmad Aqeel , Farman Muhammad , Saqib Muhammad , Saleem Muhammad Umer
Published: July 2024

In order to comprehend the dynamics of disease propagation within a society, mathematical formulations are essential. The purpose of this work is to investigate the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer in persons with weakened immune systems by introducing cytokines ($$ IL_{2} \& IL_{12}$$

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Z, a qualitative and quantitative analysis are taken under sensitive parameters. Reliable bounded findings are ensured by examining the generated system’s boundedness, positivity, uniqueness, and local stability analysis, which are the crucial characteristics of epidemic models. The positive solutions with linear growth are shown to be verified by the global derivative, and the rate of impact across every sub-compartment is determined using Lipschitz criteria. Using Lyapunov functions with first derivative, the system’s global stability is examined in order to evaluate the combined effects of cytokines and anti-PD-L1 inhibitors on people with weakened immune systems. Reliability is achieved by employing the Mittag-Leffler kernel in conjunction with a fractal-fractional operator because FFO provide continuous monitoring of lung cancer in multidimensional way. The symptomatic and asymptomatic effects of lung cancer sickness are investigated using simulations in order to validate the relationship between anti-PD-L1 inhibitors, cytokines, and the immune system. Also, identify the actual state of lung cancer control with early diagnosis and therapy by introducing cytokines and anti-PD-L1 inhibitors, which aid in the patients’ production of anti-cancer cells. Investigating the transmission of illness and creating control methods based on our validated results will both benefit from this kind of research.
Senomorphic activity of a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: correlation with clinical improvement of skin aging
Authors: Bogdanowicz Patrick , Bensadoun Paul , Noizet Maïté , Béganton Benoît , Philippe Armony , Alvarez-Georges Sandrine , Doat Gautier , Tourette Amélie , Bessou-Touya Sandrine , Lemaitre Jean-Marc , Duplan Hélène
Published: July 2024

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including lifestyle and sun exposure, can contribute to cell senescence, which impairs skin homeostasis, that may in turn lead to skin aging. Senescent cells have a specific secretome, called the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that includes MMPs, CXCLs and S100A8/9. Reducing the SASP with senotherapeutics is a promising strategy to reduce skin aging. Here we evaluated the effect of a formula containing niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which are known to limit senescence and skin aging. We conducted three different studies. (1) Ex vivo explants treated with the formula had more collagen and glycosaminoglycan. (2) In a clinical trial with forty-four women, two months of treatment improved fine lines, wrinkles, luminosity, smoothness, homogeneity, and plumpness. (3) In a third study on thirty women, we treated one arm for two months and took skin biopsies to study gene expression. 101 mRNAs and 13 miRNAs were differentially expressed. We observed a likely senomorphic effect, as there was a decrease in many SASP genes including MMP12 and CXCL9 and a significant downregulation of autocrine signaling genes: S100A8 and S100A9. These pharmaco-clinical results are the first to demonstrate the senomorphic properties of an effective anti-aging formula in skin.
Personal electric deterrents can reduce shark bites from the three species responsible for the most fatal interactions
Authors: Clarke Thomas M. , Barnett Adam , Fitzpatrick Richard , Ryan Laura A. , Hart Nathan S. , Gauthier Arnault R. G. , Scott-Holland Tracey B. , Huveneers Charlie
Published: July 2024

The frequency of unprovoked shark bites is increasing worldwide, leading to a growing pressure for mitigation measures to reduce shark-bite risk while maintaining conservation objectives. Personal shark deterrents are a promising and non-lethal strategy that can protect ocean users, but few have been independently and scientifically tested. In Australia, bull (Carcharhinus leucas), tiger (Galeocerdo cuvier), and white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) are responsible for the highest number of bites and fatalities. We tested the effects of two electric deterrents (Ocean Guardian’s Freedom+ Surf and Freedom7) on the behaviour of these three species. The surf product reduced the probability of bites by 54% across all three species. The diving product had a similar effect on tiger shark bites (69% reduction) but did not reduce the frequency of bites from white sharks (1% increase), likely because the electrodes were placed further away from the bait. Electric deterrents also increased the time for bites to occur, and frequency of reactions and passes for all species tested. Our findings reveal that both Freedom+ Surf and Freedom7 electric deterrents affect shark behaviour and can reduce shark-bite risk for water users, but neither product eliminated the risk of shark bites entirely. The increasing number of studies showing the ability of personal electric deterrents to reduce shark-bite risk highlights personal protection as an effective and important part of the toolbox of shark-bite mitigation measures.
On the use of the healthy lifestyle index to investigate specific disease outcomes
Authors: Viallon Vivian , Freisling Heinz , Matta Komodo , Nannsen Anne Østergaard , Dahm Christina C. , Tjønneland Anne , Eriksen Anne Kirstine , Kaaks Rudolf , Katzke Verena A. , Schulze Matthias B. , Masala Giovanna , Tagliabue Giovanna , Simeon Vittorio , Tumino Rosario , Milani Lorenzo , Derksen Jeroen W. G. , van der Schouw Yvonne T. , Nøst Therese Haugdahl , Borch Kristin Benjaminsen , Sandanger Torkjel M. , Quirós J. Ramón , Rodriguez-Barranco Miguel , Bonet Catalina , Aizpurua-Atxega Amaia , Cirera Lluís , Guevara Marcela , Sundström Björn , Winkvist Anna , Heath Alicia K. , Gunter Marc J. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Johansson Mattias , Ferrari Pietro
Published: July 2024

The healthy lifestyle index (HLI), defined as the unweighted sum of individual lifestyle components, was used to investigate the combined role of lifestyle factors on health-related outcomes. We introduced weighted outcome-specific versions of the HLI, where individual lifestyle components were weighted according to their associations with disease outcomes. Within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), we examined the association between the standard and the outcome-specific HLIs and the risk of T2D, CVD, cancer, and all-cause premature mortality. Estimates of the hazard ratios (HRs), the Harrell’s C-index and the population attributable fractions (PAFs) were compared. For T2D, the HR for 1-SD increase of the standard and T2D-specific HLI were 0.66 (95% CI: 0.64, 0.67) and 0.43 (0.42, 0.44), respectively, and the C-index were 0.63 (0.62, 0.64) and 0.72 (0.72, 0.73). Similar, yet less pronounced differences in HR and C-index were observed for standard and outcome-specific estimates for cancer, CVD and all-cause mortality. PAF estimates for mortality before age 80 were 57% (55%, 58%) and 33% (32%, 34%) for standard and mortality-specific HLI, respectively. The use of outcome-specific HLI could improve the assessment of the role of lifestyle factors on disease outcomes, thus enhancing the definition of public health recommendations.
Threat-induced prosocial behavior: enhanced exogenous attention to protect others from harm
Authors: Lojowska Maria , Lucchi Federica , Mulckhuyse Manon
Published: July 2024

As social animals, humans tend to voluntarily engage in pro-social behavior to prevent harm to others. However, to what extent prosocial behavior can be reflected at the level of less voluntary cognitive processes remains unclear. Here, we examined how threat to others modulates exogenous attention. Fifty-four participants performed an exogenous spatial cueing task where the participant’s performance determined whether electric shocks would be delivered either to themselves or to their anonymous co-participant. Threat of shock to the co-participant elicited orienting and reorienting responses that were faster than in the safe condition and did not differ from performance when participants avoided shocks to themselves. This attentional improvement was not due to speed-accuracy trade off and was associated with arousal, i.e., increased pupil dilation in both threat conditions. Together, these findings suggest that pro-social behavior triggers automatic attentional processes which may be relevant for providing immediate help without relying on reflexive processes.
Urinary complement factor D is increased in primary malignant hypertension: a single-center, cross-sectional study
Authors: Cheng Yaqi , Qin Weiwei , Lin Liling , Gao Youhe , Li Mingxi
Published: July 2024

Kidney injury is one of the detrimental consequences of primary malignant hypertension (pMHTN). There is a paucity of non-invasive biomarkers to enhance diagnosis and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. This study aims to explore urine protein biomarkers for pMHTN associated renal damage. In the discovery phase, urine samples were collected from 8 pMHTN, 19 disease controls (DCs), and 5 healthy controls (HCs). In-gel digestion combined with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) approach was used for identification of proteins associated with pMHTN. In the validation phase, the differentially expressed proteins were validated by ELISA assay in cohort with 10 pMHTN patients, 37 DCs, and 30 HCs. Compared to DCs and HCs, a specific band between 15 and 25 kDa was found in 7 out of 8 patients with pMHTN. Further LC–MS/MS analysis revealed 5 differentially expressed proteins. ELISA validation demonstrated that urinary complement factor D (CFD) was significantly up regulated in pMHTN. By receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, urinary CFD/Cr showed moderate potential in discriminating pMHTN from DCs (the area under curve: 0.822, 95% CI 0.618–0.962). Urinary CFD may be a potential biomarker for pMHTN with its elevation indicative of the activation of the alternative complement pathway in pMHTN.
In vitro larvicidal efficacy of Lantana camara essential oil and its nanoemulsion and enzyme inhibition kinetics against Anopheles culicifacies
Authors: Sonter Shruti , Dwivedi Manish Kumar , Mishra Shringika , Singh Prabhakar , Kumar Ramesh , Park Sungmin , Jeon Byong-Hun , Singh Prashant Kumar
Published: July 2024

Mosquitoes are important vectors for the transmission of several infectious diseases that lead to huge morbidity and mortality. The exhaustive use of synthetic insecticides has led to widespread resistance and environmental pollution. Using essential oils and nano-emulsions as novel insecticides is a promising alternative approach for controlling vector borne diseases. In the current study, Lantana camara EO and NE were evaluated for their larvicidal and pupicidal activities against Anopheles culicifacies. The inhibitory effect of EO and NE on AChE, NSE (α/β), and GST was also evaluated and compared. GC-MS analysis of oil displayed 61 major peaks. The stable nano-emulsion with an observed hydrodynamic diameter of 147.62 nm was formed using the o/w method. The nano-emulsion exhibited good larvicidal (LC50 50.35 ppm and LC90 222.84 ppm) and pupicidal (LC50 54.82 ppm and LC90 174.58 ppm) activities. Biochemical evaluations revealed that LCEO and LCNE inhibited AChE, NSE (α/β), and GST, displaying LCNE to be a potent binder to AChE and NSE enzyme, whereas LCEO showed higher binding potency towards GST. The nano-emulsion provides us with novel opportunities to target different mosquito enzymes with improved insecticidal efficacy. Due to its natural origin, it can be further developed as a safer and more potent larvicide/insecticide capable of combating emerging insecticide resistance.
Aging alone or combined with obesity increases white adipose tissue inflammatory status in male mice
Authors: Bournot Lorrine , Payet Thomas , Sicard Flavie , Breniere Thomas , Astier Julien , Roux Julien , Bariohay Bruno , Landrier Jean-François
Published: July 2024

White adipose tissue (WAT) has been recognized as a fundamental and crucial organ of interest in research focusing on inflammation during obesity or aging. WAT is also proposed as a significant component of cholecalciferol and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) storage, which participates in the decrease of 25(OH)D plasma levels reported during aging and obesity. In the present study, we evaluated WAT and plasma cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D content together with inflammatory status to highlight the putative relationship between vitamin D status and inflammatory process during aging alone or combined with obesity. Circulating cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D and the stored quantity of cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D in WAT were quantified in young and old mice fed a control or obesogenic diet. The inflammation was assessed by measuring plasma inflammatory cytokines, mRNA, and microRNAs inflammatory-associated in WAT. The combination of aging and obesity decreased 25(OH)D plasma levels but did not modify circulating inflammatory markers. A cumulative effect of aging and obesity was observed in WAT, with rising mRNA inflammatory cytokines, notably Ccl5 and Tnf. Interestingly, aging and obesity-associated were also characterized by increased inflammatory microRNA expression. The inflammatory parameters in WAT were negatively correlated with the plasma 25(OH)D but positively correlated with the quantity of cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D in WAT. These results support the cumulative effect of obesity and aging in aggravation of WAT inflammation and suggest that accumulation of cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D in WAT could constitute a mechanism to counteract WAT inflammation during aging and obesity.
Initial experience with zero-fluoroscopy pulmonary vein isolation in patients with atrial fibrillation: single-center observational trial
Authors: Torma Dalma , Janosi Kristof , Debreceni Dorottya , Bocz Botond , Keseru Mark , Simor Tamas , Kupo Peter
Published: July 2024

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) stands as a widely practiced cardiac ablation procedure on a global scale, conventionally guided by fluoroscopy. The concurrent application of electroanatomical mapping systems (EAMS) and intracardiac echocardiography offers a means to curtail radiation exposure. This study aimed to compare procedural outcomes between conventional and our initial zero-fluoroscopy cases in patients with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), undergoing point-by-point PVI. Our prospective observational study included 100 consecutive patients with AF who underwent point-by-point radiofrequency PVI. The standard technique was used in the first 50 cases (Standard group), while the fluoroless technique was used in the subsequent 50 patients (Zero group). The zero-fluoroscopy approach exhibited significantly shorter procedural time (59.6 ± 10.7 min vs. 74.6 ± 13.2 min, p < 0.0001), attributed to a reduced access time (17 [16; 20] min vs. 31 [23; 34.5] min, p < 0.001). Comparable results were found for the number of RF applications, total ablation energy, and left atrial dwelling time. In the Zero group, all procedures were achieved without fluoroscopy, resulting in significantly lower fluoroscopy time (0 [0; 0] sec vs. 132 [100; 160] sec, p < 0.0001) and dose (0 [0; 0] mGy vs. 4.8 [4.1; 8.2] mGy, p < 0.0001). The acute success rate was 100%, with no major complications. Zero-fluoroscopy PVI is feasible, safe, and associated with shorter procedure times compared to the standard approach, even in cases without prior experience in zero-fluoroscopy PVI.
Recommendations for managing adult acne and adolescent acne based on an epidemiological study conducted in China
Authors: Liu Yan-ting , Wang Ya-wen , Tu Chen , Ren Jian-wen , Huo Jia , Nan Xiao-juan , Dou Jia-hao , Peng Zi-he , Zeng Wei-hui
Published: July 2024

There are numerous differences between adult acne and adolescent acne in terms of causes, distribution, and characteristics of skin lesions, as well as treatment. This paper aims to summarize the differences between adult and adolescent acne in China, in order to propose more suitable ways to improve their quality of life. We collected basic information, acne-related information, acne-affecting factors, quality of life scores and treatment-related information of acne patients. A total of 552 questionnaires were collected. Adult acne is typically predominant on the cheeks, similar to adolescent acne, with a relatively lower incidence in other areas, apart from the jawline. Pigmentation and depressed scars are present in nearly half of acne patients, while hypertrophic scars are less frequently observed. Teenagers often have a higher consumption of dairy products, sugary drinks, and high-sugar and high-fat foods. Eczema is more common in adult acne. Additionally, more adults than teenagers experience stress and poor quality of life related to acne. Adolescents are more likely to seek treatment online and on social media. Clinicians must thoroughly evaluate diverse risk factors and formulate personalized acne management strategies for patients with different types of acne.
Characterizing the dispersion behavior of poly-atomic magnetic metamaterials
Authors: Jenkins Connor , Kiourti Asimina
Published: July 2024

The propagation of magnetoinductive (MI) waves across magnetic metamaterials known as magnetoinductive waveguides (MIWs) has been an area of interest for many applications due to the flexible design and low-loss performance in challenging radio-frequency (RF) environments. Thus far, the dispersion behavior of MIWs has been limited to mono- and diatomic geometries. In this work, we present a recursive method to generate the dispersion equation for a general poly-atomic MIW. This recursive method greatly simplifies the ability to create closed-form dispersion equations for unique poly-atomic MIW geometries versus the previous method. To demonstrate, four MIW geometries that have been selected for their unique symmetries are analyzed using the recursive method. Using applicable simplifications brought on by the geometric symmetries, a closed-form dispersion equation is reported for each case. The equations are then validated numerically and show excellent agreement in all four cases. This work simultaneously aids in the further development of MIW theory and offers new avenues for MIW design in the presented dispersion equations.
Unconventional cold vortex as precursor to historic early summer heatwaves in North China 2023
Authors: Liu Boqi , Duan Yanan , Ma Shuangmei , Yan Yuhan , Zhu Congwen
Published: July 2024

In mid-June to July 2023, North China witnessed extreme heatwaves, marked by intense near-surface warming with an advanced seasonal cycle of local air temperature. An unconventional upper-tropospheric cold vortex in early June, deviating from conventional “heat dome” patterns, preceded the heatwave extremes. The zonal SSTA gradient in Indo-Pacific warm pool initially suppressed Indian summer monsoon convection, which stimulated the cold vortex around North China via a tropical-extratropical teleconnection. This anomaly intensified the air-land thermal contrast, leading to increased sensible heating and reduced soil moisture in situ. The drier soil conditions maintained and further augmented sensible heating, escalating surface air temperature, and culminating in extraordinary heatwaves. The air column was then destabilized to mitigate the upper-level cold vortex. Historical records corroborate the extremity of the air-sea interactions in 2023. The ECMWF real-time subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) forecasts successfully capture the air-land feedback in both cold vortex and heatwave stages, albeit with an underestimation of heatwave intensity due to biases in soil moisture anomalies. Consequently, the initial cold vortex condition and air-land-sea interactions yield S2S predictability to the historic 2023 heatwaves in North China.
Quantifying stress distribution in ultra-large graphene drums through mode shape imaging
Authors: Sarafraz Ali , Liu Hanqing , Cvetanović Katarina , Spasenović Marko , Vollebregt Sten , Manzaneque Garcia Tomás , Steeneken Peter G. , Alijani Farbod , Verbiest Gerard J.
Published: July 2024

Suspended drums made of 2D materials hold potential for sensing applications. However, the industrialization of these applications is hindered by significant device-to-device variations presumably caused by non-uniform stress distributions induced by the fabrication process. Here, we introduce a methodology to determine the stress distribution from their mechanical resonance frequencies and corresponding mode shapes as measured by a laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV). To avoid limitations posed by the optical resolution of the LDV, we leverage a manufacturing process to create ultra-large graphene drums with diameters of up to 1000 μm. We solve the inverse problem of a Föppl–von Kármán plate model by an iterative procedure to obtain the stress distribution within the drums from the experimental data. Our results show that the generally used uniform pre-tension assumption overestimates the pre-stress value, exceeding the averaged stress obtained by more than 47%. Moreover, it is found that the reconstructed stress distributions are bi-axial, which likely originates from the transfer process. The introduced methodology allows one to estimate the tension distribution in drum resonators from their mechanical response and thereby paves the way for linking the used fabrication processes to the resulting device performance.
Abundant electric-field tunable symmetry-broken states in twisted monolayer-bilayer graphene
Authors: Peng Huimin , Zhong Jinrui , Feng Qi , Hu Yuqing , Li Qiuli , Zhang Shihao , Mao Jinhai , Duan Junxi , Yao Yugui
Published: July 2024

Electron-electron correlations can lift the high degeneracies in strong correlated systems, resulting in various symmetry-broken states. Twisted monolayer-bilayer graphene (tMBG) is an especially rich system due to its low crystalline symmetry. Here, we report abundant electric-field tunable symmetry-broken states in tMBG. The ground state at half filling of the conduction flat band is spin- and valley-polarization dominated under positive and negative electric field, respectively, consistent with our theoretical calculations. In addition, we find a symmetry-broken Chern insulator emanating from 1.5 electrons per moiré unit with C = 3 emerges at high magnetic field in a negative electric field range. The C = 3 suggests that one and a half flavor-polarized Chern 2 bands within the same valley are filled, consistent with the valley-polarization-dominated half-filling state under negative electric field, while the fractional filling stems from a density-wave state held by enlarged unit cells containing two moiré units.
Realistic morphology-preserving generative modelling of the brain
Authors: Tudosiu Petru-Daniel , Pinaya Walter H. L. , Ferreira Da Costa Pedro , Dafflon Jessica , Patel Ashay , Borges Pedro , Fernandez Virginia , Graham Mark S. , Gray Robert J. , Nachev Parashkev , Ourselin Sebastien , Cardoso M. Jorge
Published: July 2024

Medical imaging research is often limited by data scarcity and availability. Governance, privacy concerns and the cost of acquisition all restrict access to medical imaging data, which, compounded by the data-hungry nature of deep learning algorithms, limits progress in the field of healthcare AI. Generative models have recently been used to synthesize photorealistic natural images, presenting a potential solution to the data scarcity problem. But are current generative models synthesizing morphologically correct samples? In this work we present a three-dimensional generative model of the human brain that is trained at the necessary scale to generate diverse, realistic-looking, high-resolution and morphologically preserving samples and conditioned on patient characteristics (for example, age and pathology). We show that the synthetic samples generated by the model preserve biological and disease phenotypes and are realistic enough to permit use downstream in well-established image analysis tools. While the proposed model has broad future applicability, such as anomaly detection and learning under limited data, its generative capabilities can be used to directly mitigate data scarcity, limited data availability and algorithmic fairness.
Complex interplay between RAS GTPases and RASSF effectors regulates subcellular localization of YAP
Authors: Singh Swati , Bernal Astrain Gabriela , Hincapie Ana Maria , Goudreault Marilyn , Smith Matthew J
Published: July 2024

RAS GTPases bind effectors to convert upstream cues to changes in cellular function. Effectors of classical H/K/NRAS are defined by RBD/RA domains which recognize the GTP-bound conformation of these GTPases, yet the specificity of RBD/RAs for over 160 RAS superfamily proteins remains poorly explored. We have systematically mapped interactions between BRAF and four RASSF effectors, the largest family of RA-containing proteins, with all RAS, RHO and ARF small GTPases. 39 validated complexes reveal plasticity in RASSF binding, while BRAF demonstrates tight specificity for classical H/K/NRAS. Complex between RASSF5 and diverse RAS GTPases at the plasma membrane can activate Hippo signalling and sequester YAP in the cytosol. RASSF8 undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation and resides in YAP-associated membraneless condensates, which also engage several RAS and RHO GTPases. The poorly studied RASSF3 has been identified as a first potential effector of mitochondrial MIRO proteins, and its co-expression with these GTPases impacts mitochondria and peroxisome distribution. These data reveal the complex nature of GTPase-effector interactions and show their systematic elucidation can reveal completely novel and biologically relevant cellular processes.
In vitro and in vivo inhibition of the host TRPC4 channel attenuates Zika virus infection
Authors: Chen Xingjuan , Yan Yunzheng , Liu Zhiqiang , Yang Shaokang , Li Wei , Wang Zhuang , Wang Mengyuan , Guo Juan , Li Zhenyang , Zhu Weiyan , Yang Jingjing , Yin Jiye , Dai Qingsong , Li Yuexiang , Wang Cui , Zhao Lei , Yang Xiaotong , Guo Xiaojia , Leng Ling , Xu Jiaxi , Obukhov Alexander G , Cao Ruiyuan , Zhong Wu
Published: July 2024

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection may lead to severe neurological consequences, including seizures, and early infancy death. However, the involved mechanisms are still largely unknown. TRPC channels play an important role in regulating nervous system excitability and are implicated in seizure development. We investigated whether TRPCs might be involved in the pathogenesis of ZIKV infection. We found that ZIKV infection increases TRPC4 expression in host cells via the interaction between the ZIKV-NS3 protein and CaMKII, enhancing TRPC4-mediated calcium influx. Pharmacological inhibition of CaMKII decreased both pCREB and TRPC4 protein levels, whereas the suppression of either TRPC4 or CaMKII improved the survival rate of ZIKV-infected cells and reduced viral protein production, likely by impeding the replication phase of the viral life cycle. TRPC4 or CaMKII inhibitors also reduced seizures and increased the survival of ZIKV-infected neonatal mice and blocked the spread of ZIKV in brain organoids derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells. These findings suggest that targeting CaMKII or TRPC4 may offer a promising approach for developing novel anti-ZIKV therapies, capable of preventing ZIKV-associated seizures and death.
Spin states of metal centers in electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Yuwei , Wu Qian , Seow Justin Zhu Yeow , Jia Yingjie , Ren Xiao , Xu Zhichuan J.
Published: July 2024

This tutorial review provides a comprehensive introduction to the spin state of metal centers and its role in electrocatalysis.
Recognition experiences of women of color in chemistry: an intersectional study
Authors: Stephenson Norda S. , Abelsen Ursula A.
Published: July 2024

Much research on women of color in STEM has treated women of color as a collective, giving little attention to the nuanced differences in the experiences of the women within this larger group. Research on women of color in STEM has also given insufficient attention to disciplinary differences, and has often applied unidimensional, rather than intersectional approaches, to examining the experiences of these women. This study takes a nuanced approach to examining the recognition experiences of four undergraduate women of color in chemistry, and how those experiences are shaped by the intersection of their multiple marginalized identities, using an intersectional lens. Interpretive phenomenological analysis is used to center the women's voices and focus on capturing both the convergences and divergences in their experiences. Our findings illustrate the value of using an intersectional approach, and provide explicit examples of how recognition, especially negative recognition, manifests itself in these women's experiences. The findings have implications for how institutions and disciplines can support women of color to persist in science disciplines, as well as implications for research.
Exploring the complementarity of fast multipulse and multidimensional NMR methods for metabolomics: a chemical ecology case study
Authors: Michaud Aurore , Bertrand Samuel , Akoka Serge , Farjon Jonathan , Martineau Estelle , Ruiz Nicolas , Robiou du Pont Thibaut , Grovel Olivier , Giraudeau Patrick
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the potential and complementarity of high-throughput multipulse and multidimensional NMR methods for metabolomics.
Amino acid-appended pyromellitic diimide liquid materials, their photoluminescence, and the thermal response that turns the photoluminescence off
Authors: Omura Takumi , Morisako Shogo , Isoda Kyosuke
Published: July 2024

We report a liquid material based on an l-valine-appended pyromellitic diimide framework.
Coordination-induced reductive elimination from a titanium(iv) complex
Authors: Fritsche Paul , Geyer Lucia , Czernetzki Corinna , Hierlmeier Gabriele
Published: July 2024

Diamidopyridine-supported titanium dibenzyl complexes undergo coordination-induced C–C reductive elimination upon addition of alkynes and quantitative formation of titanacyclopentadienes.
Metal ion and organic ligand disubstituted bimetallic metal–organic framework nanosheets for high-performance alkaline zinc-based batteries
Authors: Wang Huayu , Bai Jie , He Qingqing , Liao Yanxin , Chen Lingyun
Published: July 2024

Pristine MOF nanosheets with a highly active metal–sulfur (M–S, M = Co and Ni) region as cathodes for Zn–Co/Ni batteries are successfully prepared through a dual substitution strategy of metal ions and organic ligands.
A NIR-II absorbing conjugated polymer based on tetra-fused isoindigo with ultrahigh photothermal conversion efficiency for cancer therapy
Authors: Wu Junjie , Rao Mei , Zhu Yangwei , Wang Pai , Chen Min , Qu Yijie , Zheng Xiaohua , Jiang Yu
Published: July 2024

A fused polycyclic acceptor–acceptor type conjugated polymer was synthesized. Ultrastrong ε of 62.8 L g−1 cm−1 and high photothermal conversion efficiency of 91.5% at 1064 nm were obtained simultaneously.
Scalable organocatalytic one pot asymmetric Strecker reaction via camphor sulfonyl functionalized crown-ether-tethered calix[4]arene
Authors: Malik Apoorva , Antil Kirti , Singh Nikhil , Sharma Pragati R. , Sharma Rakesh K.
Published: July 2024

A highly selective camphor sulfonyl functionalized crown-ether-tethered calix[4]arene organocatalyst is designed for asymmetric Strecker reaction to provide desired cyano adducts in high yields (∼99.9%) and enantioselectivities (up to 99.3% ee).
Density functional theory-based modeling of the half-metallic g-C3N4/CoN4 heterojunction for photocatalytic water splitting reaction
Authors: V. N Dhilshada. , Chandran Aiswarya , Sen Sabyasachi , Chattopadhyaya Mausumi
Published: July 2024

Using DFT, we have investigated the structural, optical, electronic and magnetic properties of g-C3N4 and CoN4 composite to explore the effect of the heterojunction on the photocatalytic performance of g-C3N4.
Complex phase behavior of dihydroxyl-functionalized ionic liquids at low temperature
Authors: Cui Mingjie , Long Zeling , Song Bingxi , Deng Yitong , Wang Shuwei , Zhang Heng , Zhao Guoying
Published: July 2024

Varied strength and direction of hydrogen bonding lead to different phase behavior and potential applications of ionic liquids.
Effect of the protein environment on the excited state phenomena in a bacteriophytochrome
Authors: Dey Pradipta , Santra Supriyo , Ghosh Debashree
Published: July 2024

The excited state processes of a bacteriophytochrome are studied using high-level multireference methods.
On the influence of metal nanoparticle and π-system sizes in the stability of noncovalent adducts: a theoretical study
Authors: Burguera Sergi , Piña María de las Nieves , Bauzá Antonio
Published: July 2024

The relationship between Ag/Au nanoparticles (NPs) size and π-system extension has been evaluated at the PBE0-D3/def2-TZVP level of theory using 1–5 Ag/AuNPs and benzene, naphthalene and anthracene rings.
Exploitation of Sb P-doped C3N4 and peroxidase immobilized on epoxidized linseed oil films for pollutant removal
Authors: Gaggero E. , Paturel M. , Cristaudo F. , Sesia R. , Sangermano M. , Calza P. , Ohno T.
Published: July 2024

Effective coupling of a photocatalyst able to produce H2O2 and peroxidase, giving a self-standing and self-maintaining system.
In situ XPS study of methanol oxidation over a copper catalyst derived from layered double hydroxides
Authors: Panafidin Maxim A. , Bukhtiyarov Andrey V. , Fedorov Alexey Yu. , Bukhtiyarova Marina V. , Prosvirin Igor P. , Bukhtiyarov Valerii I.
Published: July 2024

Copper nanoparticles supported on alumina have been synthesized from CuAl-layered double hydroxide and have been studied in methanol oxidation at different molar ratios of the components of the reaction feed by in situ XPS and mass-spectrometry.
Prediction of two-dimensional C3N2 semiconductors with outstanding stability, moderate band gaps, and high carrier mobility
Authors: Li Longhui , Tan Rui , Ouyang Yulou , Wei Xiaolin , Tang Zhenkun
Published: July 2024

Two 2D carbon nitrides with outstanding stability, moderate band gaps, and high carrier mobility are systematically explored.
Point-of-care diagnostics for SARS-CoV-2 wastewater-based epidemiology: a big leap toward miniaturization
Authors: Donia Ahmed , Mthethwa-Hlongwa Nonsikelelo Precios , Amoah Isaac Dennis , Kumari Sheena , Bux Faizal
Published: July 2024

Integrating point-of-care diagnostics into SARS-CoV-2 wastewater surveillance enables rapid detection and response. This innovation enhances pandemic management and has potential for broader public health applications beyond COVID-19.
Nanoscale visualization of the anti-tumor effect of a plasma-activated Ringer's lactate solution
Authors: Usuda Junichi , Yagyu Kenshin , Tanaka Hiromasa , Hori Masaru , Ishikawa Kenji , Takahashi Yasufumi
Published: July 2024

To characterize the anti-tumor effect of plasma-activated Ringer's lactate solutions, we used scanning ion conductance microscopy, using glass nanopipettes as probes, to visualize the structural changes of the cell surface.
Embedding human knowledge in material screening pipeline as filters to identify novel synthesizable inorganic materials
Authors: Das Basita , Ji Kangyu , Sheng Fang , McCall Kyle M. , Buonassisi Tonio
Published: July 2024

A set of 6 filters based on chemical rules, human intuition, and practical constraints are developed to screen for synthesizable compounds. When applied to over 100 000 generated compounds in 60 phase diagrams, 27 are identified as possibly.
Scanning electrochemical probe microscopy: towards the characterization of micro- and nanostructured photocatalytic materials
Authors: Caniglia Giada , Horn Sarah , Kranz Christine
Published: July 2024

The feasibility of fabricating micro- and sub-micro-sized AFM probes based on Pt-B electrodeposition for the electrochemical detection of H2 evolution is demonstrated.
3D printing polymerizable eutectics via RAFT polymerization
Authors: Corrigan Nathaniel , Mutch Alexandra L. , Boyer Cyrille , Thickett Stuart C.
Published: July 2024

Polymerizable eutectic resins featuring a Z-connected bis-RAFT agent are applied to light-based 3D printing to prepare network copolymers with controlled microstructures, high strength, and thermoresponsive behavior.
Nanocomposites based on Cu2O coated silver nanowire networks for high-performance oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Battiato Sergio , Sekkat Abderrahime , Velasquez Camilo Sanchez , Pellegrino Anna Lucia , Bellet Daniel , Terrasi Antonio , Mirabella Salvo , Muñoz-Rojas David
Published: July 2024

The development of highly active, low-cost, and robust electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a crucial endeavor for the clean and economically viable production of hydrogen via electrochemical water splitting.
Enhancing effect of Cu and Sn doping on low-temperature catalytic activity and operating temperature window of γ-Fe2O3 in NH3-SCR of NOx
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Zhang Xiaoxue , Guo Ning , Cao Xiaojie , Liu Jingliang , Gui Keting
Published: July 2024

The effect of Cu/Sn doping on the catalytic performance of γ-Fe2O3 was investigated and its reaction process was explored.
Two-dimensional Janus SeMoZAZ′ (A = Si, Ge; Z = N, P, As; Z ≠ Z′): multifunctional properties for electronic, piezoelectric and photocatalytic applications
Authors: Gao Zhen , Wu Hongbo , He Yao , Xiong Kai
Published: July 2024

2D Janus SeMoZAZ′ monolayers exhibit excellent photocatalytic and piezoelectric properties.
Helix preferences of cyclopentane-containing β/γ-hybrid peptides
Authors: Park Hae Sook , Kang Young Kee
Published: July 2024

Helix preferences of cyclopentane-containing β/γ-hybrid oligomers were investigated through conformational search and DFT calculations in chloroform. A right-handed (P)-2.413-helical structure was notably predominant for the β/γ-hybrid pentamer.
Metallopeptide nanoreservoirs for concurrent imaging and detoxification of lead (Pb) from human retinal pigment epithelial (hRPE1) cells
Authors: Kautu Aanand , Sharma Shruti , Singh Ramesh , Negi Saurabh Singh , Singh Narendra , Swain Narayan , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Nikunj , Gupta Puneet , Bhatia Dhiraj , Joshi Khashti Ballabh
Published: July 2024

We engineered self-assembling nanostructures for precise lead quantification and therapeutic potential in intracellular lead aggregation, advancing biotechnological applications in materials science.
Naturally based pyrazoline derivatives as aminopeptidase N, VEGFR2 and MMP9 inhibitors: design, synthesis and molecular modeling
Authors: Batran Rasha Z. , Ahmed Eman Y. , Awad Hanem M. , Abdel Latif Nehad A.
Published: July 2024

New naturally based pyrazoline derivatives were investigated as anti-breast cancer agents targeting APN, VEGFR2 and MMP9. The effects on wound healing, cell cycle and apoptosis were evaluated. Docking and ADMET studies were performed as well.
Core–shell particle formation via Co-assembly of AB diblock copolymers and nanoparticles in 3D soft confinement
Authors: Ma Liangjun , Duan Runyu , Cao Ganghui , Bahetihan Hajinuer , Kong Weixin
Published: July 2024

Core–shell particle formation via co-assembly of AB diblock copolymers and nanoparticles in 3D soft confinement was studied using a simulated annealing method.
Phytochemical on-line screening and in silico study of Helianthemum confertum: antioxidant activity, DFT, MD simulation, ADME/T analysis, and xanthine oxidase binding
Authors: Chemam Yasmine , Benayache Samir , Bouzina Abdeslem , Marchioni Eric , Sekiou Omar , Bentoumi Houria , Zhao Minjie , Bouslama Zihad , Aouf Nour-Eddine , Benayache Fadila
Published: July 2024

Seven components from the methanol extract of the aerial part of the endemic species Helianthemum confertum were isolated and identified for the first time.
Peroxymonosulfate activation by cobalt-doped ferromanganese magnetic oxides through singlet oxygen and radical pathways for efficient sulfadiazine degradation
Authors: Li Fengchun , Gu Yawei , Zhai Luwei , Zhang Xuan , Wang Ting , Chen Xia , Xu Chongqing , Yan Guihuan , Jiang Wenqiang
Published: July 2024

Mechanistic diagram of the activation of PMS degradation of SDZ by magnetic cobalt-doped ferromanganese oxide (CMFO-0.4) through singlet oxygen and radical pathways.
Constructing drain surrounded double gate structure in AlGaN/GaN HEMT for boosting breakdown voltage
Authors: Peng Zehui , Liu Huangbai , Yu Hao , Li Lei , Chang Kuan-Chang
Published: July 2024

A structure of drain-surrounded double gate (DSDG) is proposed for AlGaN/GaN HEMT to enhance breakdown voltage by nearly 100 V and alleviate the drain-induced barrier lowering (DIBL) effect.
Photo-catalytic and biological applications of phyto-functionalized zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized using a polar extract of Equisetum diffusum D
Authors: Assad Nasir , Abbas Azhar , Fayyaz ur Rehman Muhammad , Naeem-ul-Hassan Muhammad
Published: July 2024

In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were fabricated using Equisetum diffusum D extract and their diverse properties and applications were studied.
Acetate-assisted in situ electrodeposited β-MnO2 for the fabrication of nano-architectonics for non-enzymatic glucose detection
Authors: Ren Tianbao , Yan Lijun , Zhao Yang
Published: July 2024

Well-designed nano-architectonics and tunnelable surface oxidation states of MnO2-based nanomaterials for high-performance glucose detection.
Microwave-assisted synthesis and functionalization of 2-arylimidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidin-5(8H)-ones
Authors: Camargo Delascar , Cifuentes Carlos , Castillo Juan-Carlos , Portilla Jaime
Published: July 2024

MW-assisted synthesis of 2-arylimidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidin-5(8H)-ones and their N-alkylation and bromination products using easily accessible and cheap reagents. Obtaining a bioactive N-alkylated analog and photophysical study of a fluorescent product.
Preparation and performance study of in situ mineralized bone tissue engineering scaffolds
Authors: Tian Chunyan , Li Kun , Chu Fuhuan , Wei Qiujiang , Xu Shiqi , Qiang Linhui , Gou Xinrui
Published: July 2024

Preparation and in situ mineralization process of bone tissue engineering scaffold.