bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CGRP causes anxiety via HP1γ–KLF11–MAOB pathway and dopamine in the dorsal hippocampus
Authors: Hashikawa-Hobara Narumi , Fujiwara Kyoshiro , Hashikawa Naoya
Published: March 2024

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a neuropeptide that causes anxiety behavior; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We found that CGRP modulates anxiety behavior by epigenetically regulating the HP1γ-KLF-11-MAOB pathway and depleting dopamine in the dorsal hippocampus. Intracerebroventricular administration of CGRP (0.5 nmol) elicited anxiety-like behaviors in open field, hole-board, and plus-maze tests. Additionally, we observed an increase in monoamine oxidase B (MAOB) levels and a concurrent decrease in dopamine levels in the dorsal hippocampus of mice following CGRP administration. Moreover, CGRP increased abundance the transcriptional regulator of MAOB, Krüppel-like factor 11 (KLF11), and increased levels of phosphorylated heterochromatin protein (p-HP1γ), which is involved in gene silencing, by methylating histone H3 in the dorsal hippocampus. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that HP1γ was recruited to the Klf11 enhancer by CGRP. Furthermore, infusion of CGRP (1 nmol) into the dorsal hippocampus significantly increased MAOB expression as well as anxiety-like behaviors, which were suppressed by the pharmacological inhibition or knockdown of MAOB. Together, these findings suggest that CGRP reduces dopamine levels and induces anxiety-like behavior through epigenetic regulation in the dorsal hippocampus.
Macroscopic inhibition of DNA damage repair pathways by targeting AP-2α with LEI110 eradicates hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Chenchen , Zhao Zhenjun , Zhao Yudong , Zhao Jie , Xia Lei , Xia Qiang
Published: March 2024

DNA damage repair (DDR) genes are known to be closely associated with the progression of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here we report a unique cluster of “deletion-up” genes in HCC, which are accordantly overexpressed in HCC patients and predict the unfavorable prognosis. Binding motif analysis and further validation with ChIP-qPCR unveil that the AP-2α directly modulate the transcription of critical DNA repair genes including TOP2A, NUDT1, POLD1, and PARP1, which facilitates the sanitation of oxidized DNA lesions. Structural analysis and the following validation identify LEI110 as a potent AP-2α inhibitor. Together, we demonstrate that LEI110 stabilizes AP-2α and sensitizes HCC cells toward DNA-damaging reagents. Altogether, we identify AP-2α as a crucial transcription modulator in HCC and propose small-molecule inhibitors targeting AP-2α are a promising novel class of anticancer agents. Our study provides insights into the concept of macroscopic inhibition of DNA damage repair-related genes in cancer treatment.
BNST GABAergic neurons modulate wakefulness over sleep and anesthesia
Authors: Li Mengyao , Li Wen , Liang Shanshan , Liao Xiang , Gu Miaoqing , Li Huiming , Chen Xiaowei , Liu Hongliang , Qin Han , Xiao Jingyu
Published: March 2024

The neural circuits underlying sleep-wakefulness and general anesthesia have not been fully investigated. The GABAergic neurons in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) play a critical role in stress and fear that relied on heightened arousal. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether BNST GABAergic neurons are involved in the regulation of sleep-wakefulness and anesthesia. Here, using in vivo fiber photometry combined with electroencephalography, electromyography, and video recordings, we found that BNST GABAergic neurons exhibited arousal-state-dependent alterations, with high activities in both wakefulness and rapid-eye movement sleep, but suppressed during anesthesia. Optogenetic activation of these neurons could initiate and maintain wakefulness, and even induce arousal from anesthesia. However, chronic lesion of BNST GABAergic neurons altered spontaneous sleep-wakefulness architecture during the dark phase, but not induction and emergence from anesthesia. Furthermore, we also discovered that the BNST-ventral tegmental area pathway might participate in promoting wakefulness and reanimation from steady-state anesthesia. Collectively, our study explores new elements in neural circuit mechanisms underlying sleep-wakefulness and anesthesia, which may contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of consciousness and the development of innovative anesthetics.
Self-sustainable autonomous soft actuators
Authors: Nie Zhen-Zhou , Wang Meng , Yang Hong
Published: March 2024

Self-sustainable autonomous locomotion is a non-equilibrium phenomenon and an advanced intelligence of soft-bodied organisms that exhibit the abilities of perception, feedback, decision-making, and self-sustainment. However, artificial self-sustaining architectures are often derived from algorithms and onboard modules of soft robots, resulting in complex fabrication, limited mobility, and low sensitivity. Self-sustainable autonomous soft actuators have emerged as naturally evolving systems that do not require human intervention. With shape-morphing materials integrating in their structural design, soft actuators can direct autonomous responses to complex environmental changes and achieve robust self-sustaining motions under sustained stimulation. This perspective article discusses the recent advances in self-sustainable autonomous soft actuators. Specifically, shape-morphing materials, motion characteristics, built-in negative feedback loops, and constant stimulus response patterns used in autonomous systems are summarized. Artificial self-sustaining autonomous concepts, modes, and deformation-induced functional applications of soft actuators are described. The current challenges and future opportunities for self-sustainable actuation systems are also discussed.
Insulin signalling regulates Pink1 mRNA localization via modulation of AMPK activity to support PINK1 function in neurons
Authors: Hees J. Tabitha , Wanderoy Simone , Lindner Jana , Helms Marlena , Murali Mahadevan Hariharan , Harbauer Angelika B.
Published: March 2024

Mitochondrial quality control failure is frequently observed in neurodegenerative diseases. The detection of damaged mitochondria by stabilization of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) requires transport of Pink1 messenger RNA (mRNA) by tethering it to the mitochondrial surface. Here, we report that inhibition of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by activation of the insulin signalling cascade prevents Pink1 mRNA binding to mitochondria. Mechanistically, AMPK phosphorylates the RNA anchor complex subunit SYNJ2BP within its PDZ domain, a phosphorylation site that is necessary for its interaction with the RNA-binding protein SYNJ2. Notably, loss of mitochondrial Pink1 mRNA association upon insulin addition is required for PINK1 protein activation and its function as a ubiquitin kinase in the mitophagy pathway, thus placing PINK1 function under metabolic control. Induction of insulin resistance in vitro by the key genetic Alzheimer risk factor apolipoprotein E4 retains Pink1 mRNA at the mitochondria and prevents proper PINK1 activity, especially in neurites. Our results thus identify a metabolic switch controlling Pink1 mRNA localization and PINK1 activity via insulin and AMPK signalling in neurons and propose a mechanistic connection between insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Deep-ocean channel-wall collapse order of magnitude larger than any other documented
Authors: McArthur Adam D. , Tek Daniel E. , Poyatos-Moré Miquel , Colombera Luca , McCaffrey William D.
Published: March 2024

Submarine channels are the largest conveyors of sediment on Earth, yet little is known about their stability in the deep-ocean. Here, 3D seismic data from the deep-ocean Hikurangi channel-levee system, offshore New Zealand, reveal the largest channel-wall failure yet documented. Collapse of both channel-walls along a 68 km stretch created a mass-transport deposit of 19 km3, containing 4 km long blocks. Channel-walls typically collapse piecemeal, but here synchronous failure of both channel-walls and landslide erosion of the seafloor is documented, requiring a new process model for channel-wall failure. Mass-failure on this scale poses an under-appreciated risk to seafloor infrastructure both within channels and over regions extending twice the channel width into their overbank. Hitherto, channel-wall failures of this size are unrecognised in abyssal plains; its scale changes our understanding of how channel-levee systems are constructed and how they conduct sediment, carbon and pollutants into the deep-ocean.
A first-principles study of the BC3N2 monolayer and a BC3N2/graphene heterostructure as promising anode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Ye Xiao-Juan , Zhao Rui , Xiong Xin , Wang Xiao-Han , Liu Chun-Sheng
Published: March 2024

The BC3N2 monolayer and a BC3N2/graphene heterostructure could achieve a balanced fast charging rate, high specific capacity, and moderate OCV, confirming that both structures are excellent candidates for anodes of SIBs.
Progress on enhancing the charge separation efficiency of carbon nitride for robust photocatalytic H2 production
Authors: Shao Mengmeng , Shao Yangfan , Pan Hui
Published: March 2024

This review focuses on the general strategies for strengthening charge separation and transfer in g-C3N4, involving structural modulation, heterojunction construction and cocatalyst loading, and also analyzes their respective characteristics.
Mononuclear Fe(iii) complexes with 2,4-dichloro-6-((quinoline-8-ylimino)methyl)phenolate: synthesis, structure, and magnetic behavior
Authors: Jeong Ah Rim , Park Si Ra , Shin Jong Won , Kim Jihyun , Tokunaga Ryuya , Hayami Shinya , Min Kil Sik
Published: March 2024

We synthesized three Fe(iii) mononuclear complexes and investigated the effects of the functional group of qsal ligands and anions on spin crossover behaviors and the relaxation times of T1 and T2 in DMF solution.
An investigation of the biological applications of sulphonated succinimides: in vivo toxicity to zebrafish larvae as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial potential
Authors: Sivanantham Mathiyazhagan , Senadi Gopal Chandru , Ragavendran Chinnasamy , Ramasamy Mohankumar , Kamaraj Chinnaperumal
Published: March 2024

This study assessed the compounds 4, 6, and 7 were up-regulated protection against oxidative stress in DPPH, ABTS, SOD, and CAT analysis. Also E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus growth was inhibited.
Synthesis of copper(ii) complex-functionalized Fe3O4@ISNA (ISNA = isonicotinic acid) as a magnetically recoverable nanomaterial: catalytic studies in alcohol oxidation and nitrophenol reduction, and TD-DFT studies
Authors: Mondal Rimpa , Chakraborty Aratrika , Zangrando Ennio , Shukla Madhulata , Chattopadhyay Tanmay
Published: March 2024

The synthesis of a magnetically separable nanocatalyst Fe3O4@ISNA@CuL1 used as a catalyst for oxidation of alcohols and reduction of nitrophenols.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a 99mTc-labeled small-molecule tracer for PD-L1 imaging
Authors: Lu Chunxiong , Zhu Dandan , Zhou Peng , Yu Kangxia , Liu Yaling , Wang Hongyong , Wu Hao , Wu Jun , Han Guoqing , Zou Pei
Published: March 2024

Illustration of [99mTc]Tc-SG2C-CBM for imaging PD-L1.
Nature of Li2O2 and its relationship to the mechanisms of discharge/charge reactions of lithium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Gao Yanan , Asahina Hitoshi , Matsuda Shoichi , Noguchi Hidenori , Uosaki Kohei
Published: March 2024

Online mass spectrometry of lithium oxygen batteries during linear voltage sweep charge after discharge revealed that LiOH and Li2CO3 are generated during discharge in addition to two types of Li2O2 which are oxidized in low and high charge voltages.
Mott–Schottky contact synergistically boosts the electroreduction of nitrate to ammonia under low-nitrate concentration
Authors: Zhu Xiaojuan , Ma Chaoqun , Wang Yi-Chi , Qu Kaiyu , Song Leyang , Wang Jing , Gong Yushuang , Liu Xiang , Zhang Jintao , Lu Qipeng , Wang An-Liang
Published: March 2024

A Mott–Schottky electrocatalyst composed of amorphous Co–B nanochain embedded in amorphous CoOx nanosheets was developed for highly efficient conversion of NO3−-to-NH3.
Machine learning-driven investigation of the structure and dynamics of the BMIM-BF4 room temperature ionic liquid
Authors: Zills Fabian , Schäfer Moritz René , Tovey Samuel , Kästner Johannes , Holm Christian
Published: March 2024

We demonstrate a learning-on-the-fly procedure to train machine-learned potentials from single-point density functional theory calculations before performing production molecular dynamics simulations.
New Fe-doped two-dimensional BiVO4 nanosheets for direct methane conversion to methyl oxygenates
Authors: Afriyie Catherine , Zhang Xingwang
Published: March 2024

High-efficacy, low-cost Fe-doped BiVO4 nanosheets for visible light photocatalytic application in selective oxidative methane conversion into its primary oxygenated derivatives.
Live cell screening to identify RNA-binding small molecule inhibitors of the pre-let-7–Lin28 RNA–protein interaction
Authors: Rosenblum Sydney L. , Soueid Dalia M. , Giambasu George , Vander Roest Steve , Pasternak Alexander , DiMauro Erin F. , Simov Vladimir , Garner Amanda L.
Published: March 2024

Dysregulation of the networking of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and RNAs drives many human diseases, including cancers, and the targeting of RNA–protein interactions (RPIs) has emerged as an exciting area of RNA-targeted drug discovery.
Photoelectrochemical performance of a nanostructured BiVO4/NiOOH/FeOOH–Cu2O/CuO/TiO2 tandem cell for unassisted solar water splitting
Authors: Sitaaraman S. R. , Grace A. Nirmala , Zhu Jiefang , Sellappan Raja
Published: March 2024

A tandem cell consists of BiVO4/NiOOH/FeOOH photoanode and Cu2O/CuO/TiO2 photocathode produced an unassisted current density of 0.187 mA cm−2. This tandem cell provides a pathway for designing a cost-effective and stable water splitting system.
A chloromethyl-triazole fluorescent chemosensor for O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase
Authors: Ayan Seylan , Rotaru Adrian M. , Kaye Esther G. , Juneau Gabrielle , Das Sunit , Wilds Christopher J. , Beharry Andrew A.
Published: March 2024

A fluorescent chemosensor for O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase derived from a non-pseudosubstrate, covalent inhibitor.
The GAPS Programme at TNG
Authors: Basilicata M. , Giacobbe P. , Bonomo A. S. , Scandariato G. , Brogi M. , Singh V. , Di Paola A. , Mancini L. , Sozzetti A. , Lanza A. F. , Cubillos P. E. , Damasso M. , Desidera S. , Biazzo K. , Bignamini A. , Borsa F. , Cabona L. , Carleo I. , Ghedina A. , Guilluy G. , Maggio A. , Mainella G. , Micela G. , Molinari E. , Molinaro M. , Nardiello D. , Pedani M. , Pino L. , Poretti E. , Southworth J. , Stangret M. , Turrini D.
Published: March 2024

Context. The atmospheric characterisation of hot and warm Neptune-size exoplanets is challenging mainly due to their relatively small radius and atmospheric scale height, which reduce the amplitude of atmospheric spectral features. The warm-Neptune HAT-P-11 b is a remarkable target for atmospheric characterisation because of the large brightness of its host star (V = 9.46 mag; H = 7.13 mag).

Aims. The aims of this work are to review the main physical and architectural properties of the HAT-P-11 planetary system, and to probe the presence of eight molecular species in the atmosphere of HAT-P-11 b through near-infrared (NIR) high-resolution transmission spectroscopy.

Methods. We reviewed the physical and architectural properties of the HAT-P-11 planetary system by analysing transits and occultations of HAT-P-11 b from the Kepler data set as well as HIRES at Keck archival radial-velocity data. We modelled the latter with Gaussian-process regression and a combined quasi-periodic and squared-exponential kernel to account for stellar variations on both (short-term) rotation and (long-term) activity-cycle timescales. In order to probe the atmospheric composition of HAT-P-11 b, we observed four transits of this target with the NIR GIANO-B at TNG spectrograph and cross-correlated the data with template atmospheric transmission spectra.

Results. We find that the long-period radial-velocity signal previously attributed to the HAT-P-11 c planet (P ~ 9.3 yr; Mp sin i ~ 1.6 MJ; e ~ 0.6) is more likely due to the stellar magnetic activity cycle. Nonetheless, the HIPPARCOS-Gaia difference in the proper-motion anomaly suggests that an outer-bound companion might still exist. For HAT-P-11 b, we measure a radius of Rp = 0.4466 ± 0.0059 RJ, a mass of Mp = 0.0787 ± 0.0048 MJ, a bulk density of ρp = 1.172 ± 0.085 g cm−3, and an orbital eccentricity of e = 0.2577−0.0025+0.0033. These values are compatible with those from the literature. Probing its atmosphere, we detect the presence of two molecular species, H2O and NH3, with a S/N of 5.1 and 5.3, and a significance of 3.4 σ and 5.0 σ, respectively. We also tentatively detect the presence of CO2 and CH4, with a S/N of 3.0 and 4.8, and a significance of 3.2 σ and 2.6 σ, respectively.

Conclusions. We revisit the HAT-P-11 planetary system, confirm the presence of H2O, and report the detection of NH3 in the atmosphere of HAT-P-11 b, also finding hints for the presence of CO2 and CH4 that need to be confirmed by further observations.
High speed stars
Authors: Caffau E. , Bonifacio P. , Monaco L. , Sbordone L. , Spite M. , François P. , Panuzzo P. , Sartoretti P. , Chemin L. , Thévenin F. , Mucciarelli A.
Published: March 2024

Context.TheGaiasatellite has provided the community with three releases containing astrometrical and photometric data as well as by products, such as stellar parameters and variability indicators.

Aims.By selecting in theGaiadatabase, one can select stars with the requested characteristics, such as high speed. At present any selection is based on availableGaiareleases including a subset of the observations. This, for some stars, can show some limitations, for example there is still not a sufficient number of observations to detect binarity.

Methods.We investigated a star selected inGaiaEDR3 for its high speed that appears unbound to the Galaxy. We requested high-quality spectra to derive more information on the star.

Results.From the spectroscopic investigation we confirm the low metallicity content of the star, and we derive a detailed chemical composition. The star is poor in carbon and very rich in oxygen: [(C+N+O)/Fe] = +0.65. From the two spectra observed we conclude that the star is in a binary system and from the investigation of the ionisation balance we derive that the star is closer than implied by theGaiaDR3 parallax, and thus has a a lower intrinsic luminosity.

Conclusions.The star is probably still unbound, but there is the possibility that it is bound to the Galaxy. Its low carbon abundance suggests that the star was formed in a dwarf galaxy.
On a Test of Square-Free Morphisms
Authors: Lam Nguyen Huong
Published: March 2024

A square-free word is one which does not contain two consecutive occurrences of the same factor; a square-free morphism is one which produces a square-free word whenever applied to a square-free word. For testing square-freeness of a morphism, the previous researches (Berstel, Ehrenfeucht-Rozenberg, Crochemore, Hsiao et al., …) dealt with the compactness claim: they proved that there is a bound (sometimes tight, depending on the morphism) such that a morphism is square-free if it is so on the words on the source alphabet of length up to this bound. In particular, when the morphism is ternary (the source alphabet of three letters) this bound is universally 5 and 5 is sharp on the target alphabet of 5 letters. In this paper we undertake a different approach: we do not search for any compactness bound or verify square-freeness excerpt for a few prerequisites; instead we define the relator on the source alphabet, the existence of which is relatively easy to verify by matching words for a common factor. As applications, we easily deduce all the previous bounds and we manifest the simplicity of performance by giving a short proof of a Lallement’s result. More essentially, using it we show the optimum bound 5 for the ternary morphism on the alphabet of 4 letters and, by a more elaborate construction, on the alphabet of 3 letters. That gives the current problem the finishing touches.
Formation par concordance : la théorie des scripts et son application en enseignement revisitées
Authors: Pietrement Christine , Morin Marie-Paule , Lefèvre-Utile Alain , Thibault Louis-Philippe , Jobin Vincent , Charlin Bernard
Published: March 2024

Contexte et problématique : La formation par concordance (FpC) est un puissant instrument de formation en ligne, basé sur la théorie des scripts. En éducation médicale, la FpC se présente de manière similaire à un test de concordance de script (TCS) (vignette clinique, hypothèse, nouvelle information, micro-jugement) mais alors que le TCS est destiné à l’évaluation, la FpC est un outil de formation dont l’intérêt repose sur la richesse des rétroactions dont bénéficie l’apprenant à savoir la répartition des réponses des panélistes, l’accès aux brèves explications que les panélistes ont données pour accompagner leurs réponses, et une courte synthèse éducative. Bien que son cadre théorique, la théorie des scripts, soit clair, la conception d’une FpC est complexe. De fait l’opérationnalisation du cadre théorique de la FpC n’a jamais été décrite. Objectif : Le but du présent article est ainsi de proposer un cadre d’opérationnalisation de la création d’une FpC, en utilisant comme socle l’exercice concret, étape par étape, de la création d’une FpC au sujet de la rhumatologie pédiatrique destinée à la formation des médecins de familles et des pédiatres généralistes. Méthodes : En adoptant une technique de groupe nominal, les échanges entre les créateurs de cette FpC (5 médecins pédiatres et/ou spécialistes en éducation médicale) ont permis d’aboutir à un consensus concernant chacun des concepts de la théorie des scripts et leur opérationnalité au regard de la création d’une FpC structurée dans une période de temps optimisé. Résultats : Un cadre opérationnel de création d’une FpC, sous la forme d’une synthèse des opérations conduisant à la création d’une FpC est finalement proposé.
Fetal Epicardial Fat Thickness in Obese Pregnant Women: Its Effect on
Fetal Cardiac Function and Neonatal Outcomes
Authors: Doğru Şükran , Akkuş Fatih , Metin Ülfet Sena , Acar Ali
Published: March 2024

Objective This study aimed to evaluate fetal epicardial fat thickness (EFT)
together with fetal myocardial performance index (MPI) and its effects on
neonatal outcomes in obese pregnant women.

Materials and methods A total of 102 pregnant women, 51 obese and 51 of
normal weight, were included in this prospective study. Fetal EFT, and MPI
measurements were performed for all patients.

Results Fetal EFT and Mod-MPI showed a statistically significant difference
between obese pregnant women and the control group (p=0.0001, p=0.001). The
optimal fetal EFT predictive cut-off value for the 5th-minute APGAR score below
7 was 1.22 mm, with a sensitivity of 86.96% and a specificity of 54.43%
(p=0.001).

Conclusion Fetal EFT and mod-MPI were higher in obese pregnant women. It is
encouraging that fetal EFT predicts low APGAR, but more important information
can be obtained if postnatal follow-up of these cardiac changes caused by
obesity can be performed.
Cold endoscopic mucosal resection versus cold snare polypectomy for colorectal lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Arruda do Espirito Santo Paula , Meine Gilmara Coelho , Baraldo Stefano , Barbosa Eduardo Cerchi
Published: March 2024

Background Cold resection of colorectal lesions is widely performed because of its safety and effectiveness; however, it remains uncertain whether adding submucosal injection could improve the efficacy and safety. We aimed to compare cold endoscopic mucosal resection (C-EMR) versus cold snare polypectomy (CSP) for colorectal lesions.

Methods We performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The primary outcome was complete resection. Secondary outcomes were procedure time, en bloc resection, and adverse events (AEs). Prespecified subgroup analyses based on the size and morphology of the polyps were performed. The random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled risk ratio (RR) and mean difference, with corresponding 95%CIs, for dichotomous and continuous variables, respectively. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q test and I
2 statistics.

Results 7 RCTs were included, comprising 1556 patients, with 2287 polyps analyzed. C-EMR and CSP had similar risk ratios for complete resection (RR 1.02, 95%CI 0.98–1.07), en bloc resection (RR 1.08, 95%CI 0.82–1.41), and AEs (RR 0.74, 95%CI 0.41–1.32). C-EMR had a longer procedure time (mean difference 42.1 seconds, 95%CI 14.5–69.7 seconds). In stratified subgroup analyses, the risk was not statistically different between C-EMR and CSP for complete resection in polyps<10 mm or ≥10 mm, or for complete resection, en bloc resection, and AEs in the two groups among nonpedunculated polyps.

Conclusions The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that C-EMR has similar efficacy and safety to CSP, but significantly increases the procedure time.

PROSPERO: CRD42023439605.
Molecular Genealogy of Metabolic-associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kodama Takahiro , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: March 2024

This review examines the latest epidemiological and molecular pathogenic findings of metabolic-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Its increasing prevalence is a significant concern and reflects the growing burden of obesity and metabolic diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. Metabolic-associated HCC has unique molecular abnormality and distinctive gene expression patterns implicating aberrations in bile acid, fatty acid metabolism, oxidative stress, and proinflammatory pathways. Furthermore, a notable frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes such as patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3, transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2, glucokinase regulator, and membrane-bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7 has been observed. The tumor immune microenvironment of metabolic-associated HCC is characterized by unique phenotypes of macrophages, neutrophils, and T lymphocytes. Additionally, the pathogenesis of metabolic-associated HCC is influenced by abnormal lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and dysbiosis. In conclusion, deciphering the intricate interactions among metabolic processes, genetic predispositions, inflammatory responses, immune regulation, and microbial ecology is imperative for the development of novel therapeutic and preventative measures against metabolic-associated HCC.
Palladium-Catalyzed Asymmetric [3+2] Cycloaddition Reaction of Vinyl Cyclopropane with Electron-Deficient Dienes
Authors: Ding Chang-Hua , Xu Bin , Li Yun-Fan , Yang Cun , Xi Yu-Ting , Tan Qitao
Published: March 2024

Palladium-catalyzed asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition reaction of vinyl cyclopropane and electron-deficient dienes was realized. The cycloaddition reaction proceeded regioselectively on the distant C=C double bond of electron-deficient dienes, and was mainly controlled by the steric hindrance of the 5-substituent of electron-deficient dienes. Chiral multi-substituted cyclopentanes bearing three functional groups (monosubstituted alkene, conjugated ester, and cyano) and three continuous stereocenters were obtained in moderate to high yields, diastereoselectivities, and enantioselectivities.
Towards Catalytic C–H Activation Using Main Group Elements
Authors: McNally Andrew
Published: March 2024

Catalytic C–H activation reactions are now established as a means to directly transform organic molecules and are commonly associated with metals such as palladium, rhodium, ruthenium and iridium. This Account will describe a short number of reports demonstrating that structures containing main group elements can facilitate C–H activation processes. In particular, boron-based catalysts can promote catalytic arene C–H borylation reactions, and an emerging approach using phosphenium ions can also cleave sp2 C–H bonds. These processes use a Lewis acidic main group atom combined with a pendant base to cleave C–H bonds, which compares with metal-catalyzed reactions that proceed via concerted metalation deprotonation mechanisms.

1 Introduction

2 Metal-Catalyzed C–H Activation via CMD/AMLA Mechanisms

3 C–H Borylation via Boron-Based Catalysts

4 C–H Activation Using Phosphenium Ions

5 Conclusions
Do ESG fund managers pump and dump the stocks in their portfolios? European evidence
Authors: Papathanasiou Spyros , Kenourgios Dimitris , Koutsokostas Drosos
Published: March 2024

We investigate portfolio pumping around quarter-ends by ESG equity mutual funds domiciled in the largest European markets in sustainable investments, i.e., the UK, France and Germany, for the period from January 2010 to December 2022. We find strong evidence that the UK funds inflate quarter-end returns, with price spikes being stronger at year-ends; nevertheless, the magnitude of price inflation is less than that of their conventional counterparts. On the contrary, results indicate that German and French funds do not engage in portfolio pumping. The COVID-19 pandemic strengthened the propensity of fund managers to cause a profound artificial enhancement to the performance of the investment portfolio. Further analysis shows that portfolio pumping is more prominent among the worst-performing funds, funds that charge investors with lower fees and achieve a poor ESG rating. However, managers that pump fund returns do not attract significantly more flows. Our results have produced valuable insights for regulators and investors participating in ESG markets, highlighting the necessity for a rigorous surveillance of the UK ESG equity market.
How ‘going online’ mediates the challenges of policy elite interviews
Authors: Vaagland Karin
Published: March 2024

Relevant data on sensitive and politicised political processes might be difficult to obtain and is sometimes even purposely hidden from the public domain. Policy elite interviews constitute crucial sources of information in policy research. However, there are significant challenges associated with ‘researching up’ which sets elite interviews apart from other interview methods. Although there is a great deal of literature concerning interviews conducted via phone or audio-visual computer programs, the implications of conducting policy elite interviews online have received surprisingly little attention. This paper discusses how going online can mediate the main challenges associated with policy elite interviews. These challenges include barriers to gaining access, dealing with biased information, and problems concerning positionality. Based on a least likely case to access relevant data, this paper reflects on personal experience from 20 online interviews with European Commission representatives on policy responses to the 2015 migration crisis. The paper concludes that the online format facilitated unique insights into a highly controversial issue area.
Painlevé analysis, Prelle–Singer approach, symmetries and integrability of damped Hénon–Heiles system
Authors: Uma Maheswari C. , Muthuchamy N. , Chandrasekar V. K. , Sahadevan R. , Lakshmanan M.
Published: March 2024

We consider a modified damped version of Hénon–Heiles system and investigate its integrability. By extending the Painlevé analysis of ordinary differential equations we find that the modified Hénon–Heiles system possesses the Painlevé property for three distinct parametric restrictions. For each of the identified cases, we construct two independent integrals of motion using the well known Prelle–Singer method. We then derive a set of nontrivial non-point symmetries for each of the identified integrable cases of the modified Hénon–Heiles system. We infer that the modified Hénon–Heiles system is integrable for three distinct parametric restrictions. Exact solutions are given explicitly for two integrable cases.
Solving multi-armed bandit problems using a chaotic microresonator comb
Authors: Cuevas Jonathan , Iwami Ryugo , Uchida Atsushi , Minoshima Kaoru , Kuse Naoya
Published: March 2024

The Multi-Armed Bandit (MAB) problem, foundational to reinforcement learning-based decision-making, addresses the challenge of maximizing rewards amid multiple uncertain choices. While algorithmic solutions are effective, their computational efficiency diminishes with increasing problem complexity. Photonic accelerators, leveraging temporal and spatial-temporal chaos, have emerged as promising alternatives. However, despite these advancements, current approaches either compromise computation speed or amplify system complexity. In this paper, we introduce a chaotic microresonator frequency comb (chaotic comb) to tackle the MAB problem, where each comb mode is assigned to a slot machine. Through a proof-of-concept experiment, we employ 44 comb modes to address an MAB with 44 slot machines, demonstrating performance competitive with both conventional software algorithms and other photonic methods. Furthermore, the scalability of decision making is explored with up to 512 slot machines using experimentally obtained temporal chaos in different time slots. Power-law scalability is achieved with an exponent of 0.96, outperforming conventional software-based algorithms. Moreover, we find that a numerically calculated chaotic comb accurately reproduces experimental results, paving the way for discussions on strategies to increase the number of slot machines.
Rapid hollow fiber-coating device for thin film composite membrane preparation
Authors: Karousos Dionysios S. , Chiesa Francesco , Theodorakopoulos George V. , Bouroushian Mirtat , Favvas Evangelos P.
Published: March 2024

Aligned with the recent trend and imperative to reduce separation layer thickness in gas separation membranes to the nanometer scale in order to raise permeance to levels that can render them competitive with respect to other gas separation technologies, a novel approach and device for fabricating defect-free composite hollow fiber (HF) membranes by dip-coating is described. The presented method avoids the fundamental drawbacks of state-of-the-art techniques for applying a thin gas separation layer onto a porous HF substrate, providing a safe but, at the same time, easily up-scalable way of producing HF membranes at a relatively high production rate. As a basic concept, hanging HF substrates are coated by allowing the coating solution to flow and drip along their external surface. The adaptability of this method, stemming from the array of available coating solutions (a plethora of dispersed nanofillers) and the multitude of substrate options, holds great promise for the fabrication of highly selective and defect-free composite HF membranes.
Terahertz multi-foci metalens enabling high-accuracy intensity distributions and polarization-dependent images based on inverse design
Authors: Lu Binbin , Zang Xiaofei , Zhang Teng , Zhou Yiwen , Fu Yefei , Zhu Yiming , Zhuang Songlin
Published: March 2024

A multi-foci metalens can realize unprecedented functions (i.e., the large field of view and fully reconfigurable imaging) that are extremely challenging to achieve by conventional lenses. However, a traditional multi-foci metalens shows inhomogeneous/chaotical intensity distributions between multiple focal spots, which is a key challenge in metasurface design and limited for further applications. Herein, an inverse design method is proposed to automatically optimize the in-plane orientation (rather than the shape) of each meta-atom in terahertz multi-foci metalenses that can generate a plethora of focal spots with high-accuracy intensity distributions. The inverse design of multi-foci metalenses for generating circularly polarized and linearly polarized images (rather than holograms) with nearly homogeneous intensity distributions is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The robust approach for simultaneously and accurately modulating the amplitude, phase, polarization, and intensity distributions of terahertz waves to generate polarization-dependent images with high-accuracy intensity of each focal spot will open an avenue in developing compact imaging, face unlock, and motion sensing.
Information transfers and flows in Markov chains as dynamical causal effects
Authors: Smirnov Dmitry A.
Published: March 2024

A logical sequence of information-theoretic quantifiers of directional (causal) couplings in Markov chains is generated within the framework of dynamical causal effects (DCEs), starting from the simplest DCEs (in terms of localization of their functional elements) and proceeding step-by-step to more complex ones. Thereby, a system of 11 quantifiers is readily obtained, some of them coinciding with previously known causality measures widely used in time series analysis and often called “information transfers” or “flows” (transfer entropy, Ay–Polani information flow, Liang–Kleeman information flow, information response, etc.,) By construction, this step-by-step generation reveals logical relationships between all these quantifiers as specific DCEs. As a further concretization, diverse quantitative relationships between the transfer entropy and the Liang–Kleeman information flow are found both rigorously and numerically for coupled two-state Markov chains.
Scintillator-based Timepix3 detector for neutron spin-echo techniques using intensity modulation
Authors: Funama Fumiaki , Chong Su-Ann , Loyd Matthew , Gofron Kazimierz J. , Zhang Yuxuan , Kuhn Stephen J. , Zhang Chen , Fitzsimmons Michael R. , Khaplanov Anton , Vacaliuc Bogdan , Crow Lowell , Li Fankang
Published: March 2024

A scintillator-based Timepix3 (TPX3) detector was developed to resolve the high-frequency modulation of a neutron beam in both spatial and temporal domains, as required for neutron spin-echo experiments. In this system, light from a scintillator is manipulated with an optical lens and is intensified using an image intensifier, making it detectable with the TPX3 chip. Two different scintillators, namely, 6LiF:ZnS(Ag) and 6LiI:Eu, were investigated to achieve the high resolution needed for spin-echo modulated small-angle neutron scattering (SEMSANS) and modulation of intensity with zero effort (MIEZE). The methodology for conducting event-mode analysis is described, including the optimization of clustering parameters for both scintillators. The detector with both scintillators was characterized with respect to detection efficiency, spatial resolution, count rate, uniformity, and γ-sensitivity. The 6LiF:ZnS(Ag) scintillator-based detector achieved a spatial resolution of 200 μm and a count rate capability of 1.1 × 105 cps, while the 6LiI:Eu scintillator-based detector demonstrated a spatial resolution of 250 μm and a count rate capability exceeding 2.9 × 105 cps. Furthermore, high-frequency intensity modulations in both spatial and temporal domains were successfully observed, confirming the suitability of this detector for SEMSANS and MIEZE techniques, respectively.
Effects of sidewall thermal condition on the formation of poloidal circulation in rotating three-dimensional convection
Authors: Kannan V. , Swaminathan N. , Davidson P. A.
Published: March 2024

Axisymmetric and three-dimensional (3 D) simulations of natural convective flows in a Boussinesq fluid contained inside a shallow rotating cylindrical domain are conducted. There is a constant and uniform heat flux into the domain from the bottom boundary. The simulation results are analyzed to shed light on the role of sidewall thermal boundary conditions on formation of poloidal circulation. Insulated sidewall (3 D-ISW) and conducting sidewall (3 D-CSW) conditions are used for both 3 D and axisymmetric calculations. The axisymmetric results show that the flow spins up rapidly, forming poloidal circulation when the heat flux (related to Rayleigh number, Ra) and rotation rate (related to Ekman number, E) are chosen carefully, which is consistent with past studies. For given values of these two parameters, the poloidal circulation is observed in 3 D-CSW but not for 3 D-ISW. A retrograde wave rotating faster near the center compared to the periphery inhibits the formation of poloidal circulation in 3 D-ISW cases, and the flow is made of depth invariant vertical convective rolls. Furthermore, the poloidal circulation forms under 3 D-CSW condition only when the global Rossby number is Ro≃C/ε, where C is a constant, and this is observed empirically over the range of parameters considered for this study with an aspect ratio of ε for the computational domain. Hence, features like cyclone eye and eyewall are not always observed in 3 D-CSW cases over the range of Ra and E yielding these features in axisymmetric calculations. Thus, the formation of poloidal circulation in 3 D domain may have stringent dynamical constraints compared to the axisymmetric model.
Unraveling evolution of microstructural domains in the heteroepitaxy of
β
-Ga2O3 on sapphire
Authors: Cui Mei , Zhang Yijun , Gu Songhao , Zhang Chongde , Ren Fang-Fang , Tang Dongming , Yang Yi , Gu Shulin , Zhang Rong , Ye Jiandong
Published: March 2024

Addressing microstructural domain disorders within epitaxial β-Ga2O3 is critical for phase engineering and property improvement, whereas the associated evolution of β-Ga2O3 heteroepitaxial domains remains largely unexplored. In this Letter, we conducted a quantitative investigation of microstructural domains in (−201)-oriented epitaxial β-Ga2O3 films grown on (0001) sapphire using halide vapor-phase epitaxy technique with a β-(Al0.57Ga0.43)2O3 buffer layer. The distinct split of x-ray diffraction rocking curves for (−201) β-Ga2O3 grown below 950 °C was observed, indicative of domain tilt disorders. As quantitatively assessed by transmission electron microscopy, the domain tilt angle significantly decreases from 2.33° to 0.90° along the [132] zone axis and from 2.3° to 0.56° along the [010] zone axis, respectively, as the growth temperature is elevated from 850 to 1100 °C. The reduction in tilt disorders is accompanied by the decrease in in-plane domain twist. It indicates that the elimination of small-angle domain boundaries is energetically favorable at high growth temperature above 1000 °C. The quantitative investigation on the evolution of domain disorders in β-Ga2O3 shed light on the pathway to improve epitaxial quality for cutting-edge power electronic and optoelectronic device applications.
Dimensional analysis for sedimentation behavior of magnetorheological fluids
Authors: Li Shixu , Qi Song , Liu Jun , Fu Jie , Li Yaping , Bai Longyu , Wu Wenchun , Yu Miao
Published: March 2024

Magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) are primarily composed of magnetic particles suspended in carrier liquids, exhibiting a remarkable capacity to respond dynamically to external magnetic fields. However, the phenomenon of solid–liquid phase separation, attributable to particle sedimentation, represents a formidable barrier to the real-world application of MRFs in engineering contexts. As a result, it becomes critically imperative to conduct a thorough investigation into the sedimentation behavior of MRFs under static conditions, to significantly enhance their practical utility. In the study, computational analysis through COMSOL was utilized to elucidate the sedimentation dynamics of MRFs. The findings indicated that particle sedimentation harbored the potential to induce localized turbulence within the flow field, thereby significantly impacting the sedimentation dynamics of MRFs. The motion of particles consistently followed a pattern where sedimentation rates decreased as the viscosity of the carrier liquids increased. Moreover, the elucidation of the settling behavior of MRFs was facilitated by the introduction of two dimensionless numbers. These dimensionless numbers were employed to systematically characterize the temporal evolution of the supernatant height throughout the settling process. This investigation further explored the intricate interdependence between these dimensionless parameters via a comprehensive series of settling experiments. The outcomes of this research uncovered a unique pattern in the solid–liquid separation process of MRFs, marked by a phase of gradual initiation, followed by acceleration, and culminating in deceleration. However, as the viscosity of the carrier liquids increased, this pattern became less pronounced, gradually shifting toward a more uniform settling trajectory.
Synthetic exchange coupled composite for widening an in-plane ballistic switching region
Authors: Yamaji Toshiki , Imamura Hiroshi
Published: March 2024

This study proposes synthetic exchange coupled composites to control ballistic switching effectively. We performed macrospin simulations for the ballistic switching of in-plane magnetized nanomagnets with varying antiferromagnetic coupling constant. It was discovered that there exists an optimal value of the antiferromagnetic coupling constant at which the ballistic switching region can be widened to 3.3 times of that of the single hard nanomagnet, where the antiferromagnetic coupling field torque significantly counteracts the demagnetizing field torque of the hard nanomagnet. The ballistic switching region is also effectively widened due to the volume-averaging of saturation magnetizations; that is, the cancelation of demagnetizing fields at the large antiferromagnetic coupling beyond the optimal value.
Modeling and analysis of Oldroyd 4-constant mucus flow induced by artificial magnetic cilia
Authors: Asghar Zeeshan , Javed Muhammad Asif , Khan Muhammad Waris Saeed , Gondal Muhammad Asif
Published: March 2024

Cilia serve as sensory organelles extending from cell surfaces, enabling the monitoring of intricate rheological surroundings. The objective of this study is to incorporate the governing equations of the Oldroyd 4-constant model into flows propelled by ciliary motion. Additionally, Maxwell's equations are employed to introduce a body force term within the classical Navier–Stokes equations. The problem is grounded in the assumptions of creeping flow and long wavelengths. The resulting differential equation is simulated using a robust finite difference method in MATLAB R2023a. The obtained solution exhibits convergence and is presented for fluid velocity, pressure rise, and contour lines. The solution is also validated via the shooting method. These results are beneficial in designing artificial magnetic cilia (with similar beating patterns) used for fluid manipulations in lab-on-chip devices.
A smart granular intruder
Authors: Martínez-Ortíz Lázaro , Rivera-Rivera Alex , Altshuler Ernesto
Published: March 2024

It has been recently reported that irregular objects sink irregularly when released in a granular medium: a subtle lack of symmetry in the density or shape of a macroscopic object may produce a large tilting and deviation from the vertical path when released from the free surface of a granular bed. This can be inconvenient—even catastrophic—in scenarios ranging from buildings to space rovers. Here, we take advantage of the high sensitivity of granular intruders to shape asymmetry: we introduce a granular intruder equipped with an inflatable bladder that protrudes from the intruder's surface as an autonomous response to an unwanted tilting. So, the intruder's symmetry is only slightly manipulated, resulting in the rectification of the undesired tilting. Our smart intruder is even able to rectify its settling path when perturbed by an external element, like a vertical wall. The general concept introduced here can be potentially expanded to real-life scenarios, such as “smart foundations” to mitigate the inclination of constructions on a partially fluidized soil.