bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital telomere measurement by long-read sequencing distinguishes healthy aging from disease
Authors: Sanchez Santiago E. , Gu Yuchao , Wang Yan , Golla Anudeep , Martin Annika , Shomali William , Hockemeyer Dirk , Savage Sharon A. , Artandi Steven E.
Published: June 2024

Telomere length is an important biomarker of organismal aging and cellular replicative potential, but existing measurement methods are limited in resolution and accuracy. Here, we deploy digital telomere measurement (DTM) by nanopore sequencing to understand how distributions of human telomere length change with age and disease. We measure telomere attrition and de novo elongation with up to 30 bp resolution in genetically defined populations of human cells, in blood cells from healthy donors and in blood cells from patients with genetic defects in telomere maintenance. We find that human aging is accompanied by a progressive loss of long telomeres and an accumulation of shorter telomeres. In patients with defects in telomere maintenance, the accumulation of short telomeres is more pronounced and correlates with phenotypic severity. We apply machine learning to train a binary classification model that distinguishes healthy individuals from those with telomere biology disorders. This sequencing and bioinformatic pipeline will advance our understanding of telomere maintenance mechanisms and the use of telomere length as a clinical biomarker of aging and disease.
Repeat controlled human Plasmodium falciparum infections delay bloodstream patency and reduce symptoms
Authors: Ferrer Patricia , Berry Andrea A. , Bucsan Allison N. , Prajapati Surendra K. , Krishnan Karthik , Barbeau Michelle C. , Rickert David M. , Guerrero Sandra Mendoza , Usui Miho , Abebe Yonas , Patil Asha , Chakravarty Sumana , Billingsley Peter F. , Pa’ahana-Brown Faith , Strauss Kathy , Shrestha Biraj , Nomicos Effie , Deye Gregory A. , Sim B. Kim Lee , Hoffman Stephen L. , Williamson Kim C. , Lyke Kirsten E.
Published: June 2024

Resistance to clinical malaria takes years to develop even in hyperendemic regions and sterilizing immunity has rarely been observed. To evaluate the maturation of the host response against controlled repeat exposures to P. falciparum (Pf) NF54 strain-infected mosquitoes, we systematically monitored malaria-naïve participants through an initial exposure to uninfected mosquitoes and 4 subsequent homologous exposures to Pf-infected mosquitoes over 21 months (n = 8 males) (ClinicalTrials.gov# NCT03014258). The primary outcome was to determine whether protective immunity against parasite infection develops following repeat CHMI and the secondary outcomes were to track the clinical signs and symptoms of malaria and anti-Pf antibody development following repeat CHMI. After two exposures, time to blood stage patency increases significantly and the number of reported symptoms decreases indicating the development of clinical tolerance. The time to patency correlates positively with both anti-Pf circumsporozoite protein (CSP) IgG and CD8 + CD69+ effector memory T cell levels consistent with partial pre-erythrocytic immunity. IFNγ levels decrease significantly during the participants’ second exposure to high blood stage parasitemia and could contribute to the decrease in symptoms. In contrast, CD4-CD8 + T cells expressing CXCR5 and the inhibitory receptor, PD-1, increase significantly after subsequent Pf exposures, possibly dampening the memory response and interfering with the generation of robust sterilizing immunity.
Biotic interactions promote local adaptation to soil in plants
Authors: Dorey Thomas , Frachon Léa , Rieseberg Loren H. , Kreiner Julia M. , Schiestl Florian P.
Published: June 2024

Although different ecological factors shape adaptative evolution in natural habitats, we know little about how their interactions impact local adaptation. Here we used eight generations of experimental evolution with outcrossingBrassica rapaplants as a model system, in eight treatment groups that varied in soil type, herbivory (with/without aphids), and pollination mode (hand- or bumblebee-pollination), to study how biotic interactions affect local adaptation to soil. First, we show that several plant traits evolved in response to biotic interactions in a soil-specific way. Second, using a reciprocal transplant experiment, we demonstrate that significant local adaptation to soil-type evolved in the “number of open flowers”, a trait used as a fitness proxy, but only in plants that evolved with herbivory and bee pollination. Whole genome re-sequencing of experimental lines revealed that biotic interactions caused a 10-fold increase in the number of SNPs across the genome with significant allele frequency change, and that alleles with opposite allele frequency change in different soil types (antagonistic pleiotropy) were most common in plants with an evolutionary history of herbivory and bee pollination. Our results demonstrate that the interaction with mutualists and antagonists can facilitate local adaptation to soil type through antagonistic pleiotropy.
Red-light-mediated copper-catalyzed photoredox catalysis promotes regioselectivity switch in the difunctionalization of alkenes
Authors: Zhang Tong , Rabeah Jabor , Das Shoubhik
Published: June 2024

Controlling regioselectivity during difunctionalization of alkenes remains a significant challenge, particularly when the installation of both functional groups involves radical processes. In this aspect, methodologies to install trifluoromethane (−CF3) via difunctionalization have been explored, due to the importance of this moiety in the pharmaceutical sectors; however, these existing reports are limited, most of which affording only the corresponding β-trifluoromethylated products. The main reason for this limitation arises from the fact that −CF3 group served as an initiator in those reactions and predominantly preferred to be installed at the terminal (β) position of an alkene. On the contrary, functionalization of the −CF3 group at the internal (α) position of alkenes would provide valuable products, but a meticulous approach is necessary to win this regioselectivity switch. Intrigued by this challenge, we here develop an efficient and regioselective strategy where the −CF3 group is installed at the α-position of an alkene. Molecular complexity is achieved via the simultaneous insertion of a sulfonyl fragment (−SO2R) at the β-position. A precisely regulated sequence of radical generation using red light-mediated photocatalysis facilitates this regioselective switch from the terminal (β) position to the internal (α) position. Furthermore, this approach demonstrates broad substrate scope and industrial potential for the synthesis of pharmaceuticals under mild reaction conditions.
Simple autonomous agents can enhance creative semantic discovery by human groups
Authors: Ueshima Atsushi , Jones Matthew I. , Christakis Nicholas A.
Published: June 2024

Innovation is challenging, and theory and experiments indicate that groups may be better able to identify and preserve innovations than individuals. But innovation within groups faces its own challenges, including groupthink and truncated diffusion. We performed experiments involving a game in which people search for ideas in various conditions: alone, in networked social groups, or in networked groups featuring autonomous agents (bots). The objective was to search a semantic space of 20,000 nouns with defined similarities for an arbitrary noun with the highest point value. Participants (N = 1875) were embedded in networks (n = 125) of 15 nodes to which we sometimes added 2 bots. The bots had 3 possible strategies: they shared a random noun generated by their immediate neighbors, or a noun most similar from among those identified, or a noun least similar. We first confirm that groups are better able to explore a semantic space than isolated individuals. Then we show that when bots that share the most similar noun operate in groups facing a semantic space that is relatively easy to navigate, group performance is superior. Simple autonomous agents with interpretable behavior can affect the capacity for creative discovery of human groups.
Type-printable photodetector arrays for multichannel meta-infrared imaging
Authors: Guo Junxiong , Gu Shuyi , Lin Lin , Liu Yu , Cai Ji , Cai Hongyi , Tian Yu , Zhang Yuelin , Zhang Qinghua , Liu Ze , Zhang Yafei , Zhang Xiaosheng , Lin Yuan , Huang Wen , Gu Lin , Zhang Jinxing
Published: June 2024

Multichannel meta-imaging, inspired by the parallel-processing capability of neuromorphic computing, offers considerable advancements in resolution enhancement and edge discrimination in imaging systems, extending even into the mid- to far-infrared spectrum. Currently typical multichannel infrared imaging systems consist of separating optical gratings or merging multi-cameras, which require complex circuit design and heavy power consumption, hindering the implementation of advanced human-eye-like imagers. Here, we present printable graphene plasmonic photodetector arrays driven by a ferroelectric superdomain for multichannel meta-infrared imaging with enhanced edge discrimination. The fabricated photodetectors exhibited multiple spectral responses with zero-bias operation by directly rescaling the ferroelectric superdomain instead of reconstructing the separated gratings. We also demonstrated enhanced and faster shape classification (98.1%) and edge detection (98.2%) using our multichannel infrared images compared with single-channel detectors. Our proof-of-concept photodetector arrays simplify multichannel infrared imaging systems and offer potential solutions in efficient edge detection in human-brain-type machine vision.
Augmented microglial endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria contacts mediate depression-like behavior in mice induced by chronic social defeat stress
Authors: Zhang Jia-Rui , Shen Shi-Yu , Zhai Meng-Ying , Shen Zu-Qi , Li Wei , Liang Ling-Feng , Yin Shu-Yuan , Han Qiu-Qin , Li Bing , Zhang Yu-Qiu , Yu Jin
Published: June 2024

Extracellular ATP (eATP) signaling through the P2X7 receptor pathway is widely believed to trigger NLRP3 inflammasome assembly in microglia, potentially contributing to depression. However, the cellular stress responses of microglia to both eATP and stress itself remain largely unexplored. Mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) is a platform facilitating calcium transport between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria, regulating ER stress responses and mitochondrial homeostasis. This study aims to investigate how MAMs influence microglial reaction and their involvement in the development of depression-like symptoms in response to chronic social defeat stress (CSDS). CSDS induced ER stress, MAMs’ modifications, mitochondrial damage, and the formation of the IP3R3-GRP75-VDAC1 complex at the ER-mitochondria interface in hippocampal microglia, all concomitant with depression-like behaviors. Additionally, exposing microglia to eATP to mimic CSDS conditions resulted in analogous outcomes. Furthermore, knocking down GRP75 in BV2 cells impeded ER-mitochondria contact, calcium transfer, ER stress, mitochondrial damage, mitochondrial superoxide production, and NLRP3 inflammasome aggregation induced by eATP. In addition, reduced GRP75 expression in microglia of Cx3cr1CreER/+Hspa9f/+ mice lead to reduce depressive behaviors, decreased NLRP3 inflammasome aggregation, and fewer ER-mitochondria contacts in hippocampal microglia during CSDS. Here, we show the role of MAMs, particularly the formation of a tripartite complex involving IP3R3, GRP75, and VDAC1 within MAMs, in facilitating communication between the ER and mitochondria in microglia, thereby contributing to the development of depression-like phenotypes in male mice.
Highly sensitive 2D X-ray absorption spectroscopy via physics informed machine learning
Authors: Li Zeyuan , Flynn Thomas , Liu Tongchao , Liu Sizhan , Lee Wah-Keat , Tang Ming , Ge Mingyuan
Published: June 2024

Improving the spatial and spectral resolution of 2D X-ray near-edge absorption structure (XANES) has been a decade-long pursuit to probe local chemical reactions at the nanoscale. However, the poor signal-to-noise ratio in the measured images poses significant challenges in quantitative analysis, especially when the element of interest is at a low concentration. In this work, we developed a post-imaging processing method using deep neural network to reliably improve the signal-to-noise ratio in the XANES images. The proposed neural network model could be trained to adapt to new datasets by incorporating the physical features inherent in the latent space of the XANES images and self-supervised to detect new features in the images and achieve self-consistency. Two examples are presented in this work to illustrate the model’s robustness in determining the valence states of Ni and Co in the LiNixMnyCo1-x-yO2 systems with high confidence.
Polymerised forms in the zirconium conversion coatings on cold-rolled steel: proof of concept
Authors: Kraš Ana , Milošev Ingrid , Seyeux Antoine , Marcus Philippe
Published: June 2024

This study validates the proposed polymerised structure, including tetrameric polynuclear species, of solid amorphous oxyhydroxide zirconium conversion coatings on cold-rolled steel using ToF-SIMS. Tetramers are formed at pH near 4 (and possibly higher), with thickness increasing over extended conversion times. EIS in simulated acid rain further demonstrates that optimal coating formation requires a pH of at least 4 and a sufficient conversion time for adequate thickness, confirmed by the high-frequency EIS loop. Tetramer forms were not observed when the coatings were prepared at lower pH or shorter conversion time, proving that the polymerisation step is crucial for obtaining the coatings offering adequate corrosion protection.
Sleep promoting and omics exploration on probiotics fermented Gastrodia elata Blume
Authors: Zhang Chao-Qi , Zhang Xu-Dong , Wang Yan , Liu Yi-Han , Zhang Cun-Li , Zhang Qiang
Published: June 2024

Fermenting Chinese medicinal herbs could enhance their bioactivities. We hypothesized probiotic-fermented gastrodia elata Blume (GE) with better potential to alleviate insomnia than that of unfermented, thus the changes in chemical composition and the insomnia-alleviating effects and mechanisms of fermented GE on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced insomnia zebrafish were explored via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectroscopy-coupled HPLC (HPLC-MS), phenotypic, transcriptomic, and metabolomics analysis. The results demonstrated that probiotic fermented GE performed better than unfermented GE in increasing the content of chemical composition, reducing the displacement, average speed, and number of apoptotic cells in zebrafish with insomnia. Metabolomic investigation showed that the anti-insomnia effect was related to regulating the pathways of actin cytoskeleton and neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions. Transcriptomic and reverse transcription qPCR (RT-qPCR) analysis revealed that secondary fermentation liquid (SFL) significantly modulated the expression levels of neurod1, msh2, msh3, recql4, ercc5, rad5lc, and rev3l, which are mainly involved in neuron differentiation and DNA repair. Collectively, as a functional food, fermented GE possessed potential for insomnia alleviation.
Evaluation of mRNA-LNP and adjuvanted protein SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in a maternal antibody mouse model
Authors: England Ross N. , Drapeau Elizabeth M. , Alameh Mohamad-Gabriel , Hosseinzadeh Reihaneh , Weissman Drew , Hensley Scott E.
Published: June 2024

Maternal antibodies (matAbs) protect against a myriad of pathogens early in life; however, these antibodies can also inhibit de novo immune responses against some vaccine platforms. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) matAbs are efficiently transferred during pregnancy and protect infants against subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infections. It is unknown if matAbs inhibit immune responses elicited by different types of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Here, we established a mouse model to determine if SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific matAbs inhibit immune responses elicited by recombinant protein and nucleoside-modified mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP) vaccines. We found that SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-LNP vaccines elicited robust de novo antibody responses in mouse pups in the presence of matAbs. Recombinant protein vaccines were also able to circumvent the inhibitory effects of matAbs when adjuvants were co-administered. While additional studies need to be completed in humans, our studies raise the possibility that mRNA-LNP-based and adjuvanted protein-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have the potential to be effective when delivered very early in life.
A super-efficient gel adsorbent with over 1000 times the adsorption capacity of activated carbon
Authors: Hu Menghan , Xie Na , Huang Yujia , Yu Yikai
Published: June 2024

It was observed that a super-efficient gel adsorbent system (RRQG@CDC) could be obtained when a matrix material of polyquaternium gel with a flat distribution (RRQG) was loaded onto a skeleton material of cyclodextrin carbide (CDC). The results showed that the adsorption capacity of RRQG@CDC towards dyes was 1250 times higher than that of commonly used activated carbon, enabling highly efficient purification of dyeing wastewater through superior adsorption. In addition, RRQG@CDC demonstrated adaptability to a range of different pH values and salinity conditions, showing super-efficient adsorption abilities towards various types of dyes. Moreover, simulated scale-up tests confirmed the feasibility of this super-efficient adsorbent for practical engineering applications. An enhanced quasi-planar electrostatic adsorption mechanism model was established, which has changed the traditional understanding of adsorption mechanisms. Furthermore, the waste residues of RRQG@CDC, after dye adsorption, can be directly utilized as high-calorific fuels, showcasing the resourcefulness of these residues while eliminating the risk of secondary pollution. In conclusion, this study achieved a remarkably efficient and resource-based purification of dyeing wastewater by developing a highly effective adsorbent system.
Analysis of 10,478 cancer genomes identifies candidate driver genes and opportunities for precision oncology
Authors: Kinnersley Ben , Sud Amit , Everall Andrew , Cornish Alex J. , Chubb Daniel , Culliford Richard , Gruber Andreas J. , Lärkeryd Adrian , Mitsopoulos Costas , Wedge David , Houlston Richard
Published: June 2024

Tumor genomic profiling is increasingly seen as a prerequisite to guide the treatment of patients with cancer. To explore the value of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in broadening the scope of cancers potentially amenable to a precision therapy, we analysed whole-genome sequencing data on 10,478 patients spanning 35 cancer types recruited to the UK 100,000 Genomes Project. We identified 330 candidate driver genes, including 74 that are new to any cancer. We estimate that approximately 55% of patients studied harbor at least one clinically relevant mutation, predicting either sensitivity or resistance to certain treatments or clinical trial eligibility. By performing computational chemogenomic analysis of cancer mutations we identify additional targets for compounds that represent attractive candidates for future clinical trials. This study represents one of the most comprehensive efforts thus far to identify cancer driver genes in the real world setting and assess their impact on informing precision oncology.
Effect of manual OCTA segmentation correction to improve image quality and visibility of choroidal neovascularization in AMD
Authors: Deussen Daniel N. , Heinke Anna , Elsner Wyatt , Galang Carlo Miguel B. , Kalaw Fritz Gerald P. , Warter Alexandra , Bartsch Dirk-Uwe , Cheng Lingyun , Freeman William R.
Published: June 2024

In this retrospective case series on neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), we aimed to improve Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV) visualization in Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) scans by addressing segmentation errors. Out of 198 eyes, 73 OCTA scans required manual segmentation correction. We compared uncorrected scans to those with minimal (2 corrections), moderate (10 corrections), and detailed (50 corrections) efforts targeting falsely segmented Bruch’s Membrane (BM). Results showed that 55% of corrected OCTAs exhibited improved quality after manual correction. Notably, minimal correction (2 scans) already led to significant improvements, with additional corrections (10 or 50) not further enhancing expert grading. Reduced background noise and improved CNV identification were observed, with the most substantial improvement after two corrections compared to baseline uncorrected images. In conclusion, our approach of correcting segmentation errors effectively enhances image quality in OCTA scans of nAMD. This study demonstrates the efficacy of the method, with 55% of resegmented OCTA images exhibiting enhanced quality, leading to a notable increase in the proportion of high-quality images from 63 to 83%.
Plasma circulating tumor DNA unveils the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors and chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Jiang Rongqi , Cheng Xu , Li Ping , Meng Enqing , Wu Xinyi , Wu Hao
Published: June 2024

Programmed Death Receptor 1 (PD-1) inhibitors, when combined with chemotherapy, have exhibited notable effectiveness in enhancing the survival outcomes of patients afflicted with advanced gastric cancer. However, it is important to acknowledge that not all patients derive substantial benefits from this therapeutic approach, highlighting the crucial necessity of identifying efficacious biomarkers to inform immunotherapy interventions. In this study, we sought to investigate the predictive utility of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as a biomarker in a cohort of 30 patients diagnosed with advanced gastric cancer, all of whom underwent first-line treatment involving PD-1 inhibitor administration alongside chemotherapy. We procured peripheral blood samples both at baseline and following the completion of two treatment cycles. Additionally, baseline tissue specimens were collected for the purpose of genomic alteration assessment, employing both 47-gene and 737-gene next-generation sequencing panels for plasma and tumor tissue, respectively. We delineated a ctDNA response as the eradication of maximum variant allele frequencies relative to baseline levels. Notably, the objective response rate among individuals exhibiting a ctDNA response proved significantly superior in comparison to non-responders (P = 0.0073). Furthermore, patients who manifested a ctDNA response experienced markedly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) when juxtaposed with those devoid of a ctDNA response (median PFS: 15.6 vs. 6.0 months, P = 0.003; median OS: not reached [NR] vs. 9.0 months, P = 0.011). In summation, patients with advanced gastric cancer receiving first-line treatment with PD-1 inhibitors and chemotherapy, dynamic changes in ctDNA can serve as a potential biomarker for predicting treatment efficacy and long-term outcomes.
Preparation for shaddock skin polysaccharide derivatives by response surface method
Authors: Huang Gangliang , Lin Bobo
Published: June 2024

The derivation of polysaccharide has an important impact on its properties. The preparation process of phosphorylated-shaddock skin polysaccharides (SSP) and acetylated-SSP was optimized by the response surface method. The constructed model was accurate and reliable in predicting the substitution of acetylated-SSP and the phosphate content of phosphorylated-SSP. This method was simple and easy to operate, which provided a basis for the preparation of a large number of derivatives.
Invisible patients in rare diseases: parental experiences with the healthcare and social services for children with rare diseases. A mixed method study
Authors: Domaradzki Jan , Walkowiak Dariusz
Published: June 2024

This study explores the experiences of Polish caregivers of children with rare disease (CRD) with health care and social services for CRD. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using an open-ended questionnaire with a convenience sample. Quantitative data presented through descriptive statistics, were complemented by thematic analysis applied to qualitative responses. Responses from 925 caregivers of 1002 children with CRD revealed that the duration of the diagnostic journey varied, spanning from 0 to 18 years, with an average time of 1.7 years. Similarly, the average number of physicians consulted before receiving the correct diagnosis was 4.8. The Internet was basic source of information about children’s disease. Although caregivers were to some extent satisfied with the quality of health care for CRD, they complained at the accessibility of health care and social services, physicians’ ignorance regarding RDs, the lack of co-ordinated care and financial and psychological support. To break the cycle of the diagnostic and therapeutic odyssey that may aggravate the condition of CRD, cause parental stress and financial burden there is a need to change our view on CRD from cure to family-oriented care. Multifaceted challenges and needs of CRD families should be prioritized.
PAK4 inhibition augments anti-tumour effect by immunomodulation in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Takatsuka Danki , Tachinami Hidetake , Suzuki Nihei , Yamazaki Manabu , Yonesi Amirmoezz , Takaichi Mayu , Imaue Shuichi , Yamada Shin-Ichi , Tanuma Jun-Ichi , Noguchi Makoto , Tomihara Kei
Published: June 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignant tumours, warranting novel treatments. Here, we examined the therapeutic efficacy of inhibiting p21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4) in OSCC and determined its immunomodulatory effect by focusing on the enhancement of anti-tumour effects. We examined PAK4 expression in OSCC cells and human clinical samples and analysed the proliferation and apoptosis of OSCC cells following PAK4 inhibition in vitro. We also investigated the effects of in vivo administration of a PAK4 inhibitor on immune cell distribution and T-cell immune responses in OSCC tumour-bearing mice. PAK4 was detected in all OSCC cells and OSCC tissue samples. PAK4 inhibitor reduced the proliferation of OSCC cells and induced apoptosis. PAK4 inhibitor significantly attenuated tumour growth in mouse and was associated with increased proportions of IFN-γ-producing CD8+ T-cells. Furthermore, PAK4 inhibitor increased the number of dendritic cells (DCs) and up-regulated the surface expression of various lymphocyte co-stimulatory molecules, including MHC-class I molecules, CD80, CD83, CD86, and CD40. These DCs augmented CD8+ T-cell activation upon co-culture. Our results suggest that PAK4 inhibition in OSCC can have direct anti-tumour and immunomodulatory effects, which might benefit the treatment of this malignancy.
The yield of a comprehensive investigation protocol for the diagnosis of true idiopathic ventricular fibrillation in a real-life clinical setting
Authors: Lietava Samuel , Sepsi Milan , Zidkova Jana , Synkova Iva , Kozak Milan , Krivan Lubomir , Vlasinova Jitka , Richter Svatopluk , Rehor Jan , Kala Petr , Bebarova Marketa , Novotny Tomas
Published: June 2024

Traditionally, aborted cardiac arrest (ACA) due to documented ventricular fibrillation (VF) in the absence of structural heart disease has been termed idiopathic VF. By careful evaluation, a specific etiology can be found in a substantial proportion of patients. The aim of this survey was to assess the yield of an advanced diagnostic work-up to reveal a causative etiology in a real-life clinical setting. Patients from the University Hospital Brno’s ACA database were analyzed (514 patients in total). Forty-six patients (31 males) fulfilled the inclusion criteria, which were: (1) absence of structural pathology on echocardiography; (2) absence of coronary artery disease; and (3) absence of reversible cause of ACA. The diagnostic work-up consisted in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, stress testing, sodium channel blocker challenge, and genetic testing according to the availability of the method and patient compliance. A specific disease was found in 17 individuals (37.0%), although at least one diagnostic step was refused by 13 patients (28.3%). True idiopathic VF was confirmed in 7 patients (15.2%), for whom the entire diagnostic work-up did not reveal any specific pathology. Our real-life survey shows that, even with an incomplete diagnostic work-up (due to the unavailability of a particular method or variable patient compliance), a specific diagnosis can be identified in more than one third of the cases of “idiopathic” VF, which can thus enable targeted treatment and family screening.
Comprehensive study on impact of hydrogen peroxide decomposition on the crucial parameters of OSM-type energetic materials
Authors: Polis Mateusz , Stolarczyk Agnieszka , Szydło Konrad , Fabin Magdalena , Pytlik Mateusz , Lisiecka Barbara , Jarosz Tomasz
Published: June 2024

The use of increasingly advanced energetic materials (EMs) in various branches of industry and military sectors increases the appropriate requirements for EMs, including: their durability, safety of use, chemical and high-energetic properties. Additionally, the impact of the products of the explosion of EMs on the natural environment is also crucial. Therefore, on-site mixture (OSM) energetic materials containing concentrated hydrogen peroxide (OSM-type energetic materials) are becoming increasingly popular. This is an extremely interesting group of materials that contains in excess of 50 wt.% hydrogen peroxide (HP) and not containing toxic compounds, and therefore is environmentally friendly. The main objective of the study was to investigate the various compositions of OSM-type energetic materials in terms of the evolution over time of their energetic properties (including the “raw” energetic material strength and the ability to sustain the propagation of a detonation wave) and the volume of the post-detonation gases. The obtained results show that the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide strongly affects the detonation parameters of OSM-type energetic material and the decomposition time of HP. In addition, it has been proven that rate of decomposition of HP significantly affects the detonation parameters of OSM-type energetic materials. It was also found that the concentration of NO

$$_{\hbox {x}}$$

x

is low and decreases dramatically with the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, but at the same time the concentration of carbon oxides increases.
Skillful seasonal prediction of Afro-Asian summer monsoon precipitation with a merged machine learning and large ensemble approach
Authors: Huang Yanyan , Qian Danwei , Dai Jin , Wang Huijun
Published: June 2024

Afro-Asian summer monsoon precipitation (AfroASMP) is the life blood of billions of people living in many developing countries covering West Africa and Asia. Its complex variabilities are always accompanied by natural disasters like floods, landslides and droughts. Reliable AfroASMP prediction several months in advance is valuable for not only decision-makers but also regional socioeconomic sustainability. To address the current predicament of the AfroASMP seasonal prediction, this study provides an effective machine-learning model (Y-model). Y-model uses the monsoon related big climate data for searching the potential predictors, encompassing atmospheric internal factors and external forcings. Only the predictors associated with significant anomalies in summer horizonal winds at 850 hPa over the monsoon domain are retained. These selected predictors are then reorganized into a large ensemble based upon different thresholds of four fundamental principles. These principles include the focused sample sizes, the relationships between predictors and predictand, the independence among predictors, and the extremities of predictors in the forecast year. Real-time predictions can be generated based on the ensemble mean of skillful members during an independent hindcast period. Y-model skillfully predicts four monsoon precipitation indices of AfroASMP during 2011–2022 at lead 4–12 months, correlation skills range from 0.58 to 0.90 and root mean square error skills are reduced by 11–53% compared to CFS v2 model at lead 1 month. This study offers an effective method for preprocessing predictors in seasonal climate prediction.
Hemispherical scale mechanisms of nitrate formation in global marine aerosols
Authors: Lao Qibin , Li Hongliang , Yan Jinpei , Jin Guangzhe , He Guirong , Chen Chunqing , Zhu Qingmei , Chen Fajin
Published: June 2024

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere directly affect air quality; however, their oxidation products (e.g., nitrate) are essential nutrients in terrestrial and marine ecosystems. To date, the mechanism and rate of nitrate formation in the global-scale marine boundary layer remains uncertain. Herein, aerosol nitrate isotopes covering the global ocean were analysed and observations indicated that nitrate formation was dominated by the proportion between the hydroxyl radical (daytime) and ozone (nighttime) pathways in the Northern Hemisphere (NH), whereas it changed to the BrO (Antarctic iceberg emission) pathway in the Southern Hemisphere (SH). These differences in the pathways suggested that the NOx removal (nitrate formation) efficiency was higher in the NH, which could be responsible for the much higher nitrate concentrations in the NH than in the SH (over twice). This study can assist in formulating effective policies to mitigate global NOx pollution and improve our understanding of the impact of increasing NOx concentrations on global ocean productivity.
Cognitive reserve involves decision making and is associated with left parietal and hippocampal hypertrophy in neurodegeneration
Authors: Le Stanc Lorna , Lunven Marine , Giavazzi Maria , Sliwinski Agnès , Youssov Katia , Bachoud-Lévi Anne-Catherine , Jacquemot Charlotte
Published: June 2024

Cognitive reserve is the ability to actively cope with brain deterioration and delay cognitive decline in neurodegenerative diseases. It operates by optimizing performance through differential recruitment of brain networks or alternative cognitive strategies. We investigated cognitive reserve using Huntington’s disease (HD) as a genetic model of neurodegeneration to compare premanifest HD, manifest HD, and controls. Contrary to manifest HD, premanifest HD behave as controls despite neurodegeneration. By decomposing the cognitive processes underlying decision making, drift diffusion models revealed a response profile that differs progressively from controls to premanifest and manifest HD. Here, we show that cognitive reserve in premanifest HD is supported by an increased rate of evidence accumulation compensating for the abnormal increase in the amount of evidence needed to make a decision. This higher rate is associated with left superior parietal and hippocampal hypertrophy, and exhibits a bell shape over the course of disease progression, characteristic of compensation.
Reproducibility challenges in activating two-dimensional polymers and three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Roy Rupam , Evans Austin M.
Published: June 2024

Two-dimensional polymers and three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks are crystalline, permanently porous macromolecules. Removing guest molecules from the pores of these materials reliably is challenging because extreme capillary forces are generated when evacuating nanoporous structures. Herein, we outline the most common approaches for isolating and activating these materials. We also note how some methods, such as thermal activation under vacuum, introduce significant challenges with reproducibly activating porous organic materials. Throughout this discussion, we highlight emerging approaches that are most reliable for activating a wide range of materials without damaging their porosity or crystallinity. We also discuss what material features lead to more robust scaffolds towards activation. We hope this review can serve as a resource for experts and newcomers in this field as they determine what activation protocol to use on as-synthesized materials.
Crack mitigation in additively manufactured AlCrFe2Ni2 high-entropy alloys through engineering phase transformation pathway
Authors: Mooraj Shahryar , Dong Xizhen , Zhang Shengbiao , Zhang Yanming , Ren Jie , Guan Shuai , Li Chenyang , Naorem Rameshwari , Argibay Nicolas , Chen Wei , Yan Wentao , Raabe Dierk , Sun Zhongji , Chen Wen
Published: June 2024

The far-from-equilibrium solidification during additive manufacturing often creates large residual stresses that induce solid-state cracking. Here we present a strategy to suppress solid-state cracking in an additively manufactured AlCrFe2Ni2 high-entropy alloy via engineering phase transformation pathway. We investigate the solidification microstructures formed during laser powder-bed fusion and directed energy deposition, encompassing a broad range of cooling rates. At high cooling rates (104−106 K/s), we observe a single-phase BCC/B2 microstructure that is susceptible to solid-state cracking. At low cooling rates (102−104 K/s), FCC phase precipitates out from the BCC/B2 matrix, resulting in enhanced ductility (~10 %) and resistance to solid-state cracking. Site-specific residual stress/strain analysis reveals that the ductile FCC phase can largely accommodate residual stresses, a feature which helps relieve residual strains within the BCC/B2 phase to prevent cracking. Our work underscores the value of exploiting the toolbox of phase transformation pathway engineering for material design during additive manufacturing.
Quantification of losses in agriculture production in eastern Ukraine due to the Russia-Ukraine war
Authors: Chen Bin , Tu Ying , An Jiafu , Wu Shengbiao , Lin Chen , Gong Peng
Published: June 2024

The ongoing war in Ukraine has seriously impacted the agricultural sector, yet its exact effects on agricultural production are not well understood. Here we combine satellite imagery, machine learning, and statistical regression approaches to present a spatially detailed assessment of agricultural losses for five high-risk provinces in eastern Ukraine (Crimea, Donets’k, Kherson, Luhans’k, and Zaporizhzhya). Our findings indicated that approximately 18.11 ± 2.47% of croplands were left unplanted following the war. Among the cultivated areas, wheat, sunflower, and rapeseed experienced average production losses of 36.39–37.19% in 2022 compared to pre-war levels during 2019–2021. Economically, the indirect losses resulting from decreased production, corresponding to $520.36 ± 22.52, $427.59 ± 24.62, and $205.02 ± 11.53 million USD for wheat, sunflower, and rapeseed crops, respectively, were 1.31–2.16 times higher than direct losses due to unplanted. We also found that reductions in crop production were primarily affected by war intensity indicated by changes in nighttime lights. This methodology offers a comprehensive framework for quantifying agricultural damages from wars, which can be applicable beyond the Russia-Ukraine context.
Reproducible high-quality perovskite single crystals by flux-regulated crystallization with a feedback loop
Authors: Haruta Yuki , Ye Hanyang , Huber Paul , Sandor Nicholas , Pavesic Junior Antoine , Dayneko Sergey , Qiu Shuang , Yeddu Vishal , Saidaminov Makhsud I.
Published: June 2024

Controlling the linear growth rate, a critical factor that determines crystal quality, has been a challenge in solution-grown single crystals due to complex crystallization kinetics influenced by multiple parameters. Here we introduce a flux-regulated crystallization (FRC) method to directly monitor and feedback-control the linear growth rate, circumventing the need to control individual growth conditions. When applied to metal halide perovskites, the FRC maintains a stable linear growth rate for over 40 h in synthesizing CH3NH3PbBr3 and CsPbBr3 single crystals, achieving outstanding crystallinity (quantified by a full width at half-maximum of 15.3 arcsec in the X-ray rocking curve) in a centimetre-scale single crystal. The FRC is a reliable platform for synthesizing high-quality crystals essential for commercialization and systematically exploring crystallization conditions, maintaining a key parameter—the linear growth rate—constant, which enables a comprehensive understanding of the impact of other influencing factors.
Assessing the arrhythmogenic propensity of fibrotic substrate using digital twins to inform a mechanisms-based atrial fibrillation ablation strategy
Authors: Sakata Kensuke , Bradley Ryan P. , Prakosa Adityo , Yamamoto Carolyna A. P. , Ali Syed Yusuf , Loeffler Shane , Tice Brock M. , Boyle Patrick M. , Kholmovski Eugene G. , Yadav Ritu , Sinha Sunil Kumar , Marine Joseph E. , Calkins Hugh , Spragg David D. , Trayanova Natalia A.
Published: June 2024

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common heart rhythm disorder, may cause stroke and heart failure. For patients with persistent AF with fibrosis proliferation, the standard AF treatment—pulmonary vein isolation—has poor outcomes, necessitating redo procedures, owing to insufficient understanding of what constitutes good targets in fibrotic substrates. Here we present a prospective clinical and personalized digital twin study that characterizes the arrhythmogenic properties of persistent AF substrates and uncovers locations possessing rotor-attracting capabilities. Among these, a portion needs to be ablated to render the substrate not inducible for rotors, but the rest (37%) lose rotor-attracting capabilities when another location is ablated. Leveraging digital twin mechanistic insights, we suggest ablation targets that eliminate arrhythmia propensity with minimum lesions while also minimizing the risk of iatrogenic tachycardia and AF recurrence. Our findings provide further evidence regarding the appropriate substrate ablation targets in persistent AF, opening the door for effective strategies to mitigate patients’ AF burden.
Can holographic optical storage displace Hard Disk Drives?
Authors: Chu Jiaqi , Cheriere Nathanaël , Brennan Grace , Yang Mengyang , O’Shea Greg , Gladrow Jannes , Kelly Douglas J. , Maltese Giorgio , Sanders Alan , Narayanan Dushyanth , Thomsen Benn , Rowstron Antony
Published: June 2024

Cloud data workloads require both high capacity at low cost and high access rates. Hard Disk Drives are the dominant media in this application as they are low cost, however, Hard Disk Drive technology is seeing declining access rates and a slowdown in capacity scaling. Holographic data storage could disrupt Hard Disk Drives in the cloud since it may offer both high capacity and access rates. However, a challenge with rewritable holographic media is the data durability due to erasure. Here we present a media and workload aware energy optimization framework and show that erasure can be managed. We investigated the optimal Fe concentrations in iron-doped lithium niobate with experimental results supporting a stretched-exponential erasure model. We achieved a record number of reads, and surpassed the previous record for density. Our approach provides an objective assessment the feasibility of such storage technology given component parameters and material properties.
Exploring motivated reasoning in polarization over the unfolding 2023 judicial reform in Israel
Authors: Simunovic Dora , Dorfman Anna , Katzir Maayan
Published: June 2024

This work explored polarization over Israel’s Judicial Reform, introduced in January 2023. We find that the reform divided people into pro- and anti-reform camps, which differed in characteristics such as institutional trust, patriotism, and national identity. For example, the camps disagreed about trust in the government versus the judiciary. In line with motivated reasoning—biased reasoning processes used to reach desired conclusions—people’s pre-existing characteristics motivated polarized views of the reform as a threat to democracy (issue-based polarization) and negative emotions towards opponents (affective polarization). Further demonstrating a motivated process, pro-reform participants (the electorate majority), prioritized majority rule over other democratic features (e.g., minority rights) compared to anti-reform participants. Polarization differentially predicted downstream consequences (e.g., protest methods), indicating that the camps’ reactions were motivated by the extremity of their views and negative emotions. This work extends the understanding of potentially motivated polarization processes and their immediate downstream consequences.
Hierarchically stabilized Pt single-atom catalysts induced by an atomic substitution strategy for an efficient hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Yue Changle , Feng Chao , Sun Guangxun , Liu Na , Hao Haoyuan , Bao Wenjing , Zhang Xiaowei , Sun Fengyue , Zhang Cong , Bi Jiahui , Zhou Yan , Chen Hsiao-Chien , Pan Yuan , Sun Daofeng , Lu Yukun
Published: June 2024

Tuning and stabilizing the chemical microenvironment of Pt-based single-atom catalysts is a major challenge in promoting an electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
Fate and biological uptake of polystyrene nanoparticles in freshwater wetland ecosystems
Authors: Stábile Franca , Ekvall Mikael T. , Gallego-Urrea Julián A. , Nwachukwu Temitope , U. Soorasena W. G. Chalani , Rivas-Comerlati Pierina I. , Hansson Lars-Anders
Published: June 2024

Wetland mesocosms retained nanoplastics. Nanoplastics where taken up by freshwater invertebrates and macrophytes and mainly ended up in the sediments of the water compartment.
Improved anti-breast cancer activity by doxorubicin-loaded super stealth liposomes
Authors: Paolino Donatella , d'Avanzo Nicola , Canato Elena , Ciriolo Luigi , Grigoletto Antonella , Cristiano Maria Chiara , Mancuso Antonia , Celia Christian , Pasut Gianfranco , Fresta Massimo
Published: June 2024

PEGylated dendron phospholipids increase the anchoring effect of PEG to Dox-loaded liposomes, thus improving the pharmacokinetic profile and anti-cancer effect in breast cancer lung metastasis tumor-bearing mice.
Spatiotemporal insights into forced dynamic reactor operation for fast light-off of Pd-based methane oxidation catalysts
Authors: Keller Kevin , Hodonj Daniel , Zeh Lukas , Caulfield Lachlan , Sauter Eric , Wöll Christof , Deutschmann Olaf , Lott Patrick
Published: June 2024

Spatial profiling uncovers axial gradients in a monolithic methane oxidation catalyst during dynamic operation, which enables a substantial activity enhancement.
Sustainable release of Mg(NO3)2 from a separator boosts the electrochemical performance of lithium metal as an anode for secondary batteries
Authors: Xia Shuang , Lin Zhifeng , Peng Bohao , Yuan Xuelong , Du Jingzhen , Yuan Xinhai , Liu Lili , Fu Lijun , Holze Rudolf , Wu Yuping
Published: June 2024

A separator, which can sustainably release Mg(NO3)2 into the electrolyte to ensure dendrite-free and long cycling of lithium metal batteries, is reported. This method is simple and efficient.
In situ growth of a heterojunction cocatalyst on the g-C3N5 surface enhances charge transfer to improve photocatalytic activity
Authors: He Siyu , Wang Guanlong , Liu Yaoqi , Luo Lingzhi , Jiang Tingting , Fan Tianbin , Zhu Xingyu , Ding Yichao , Jing Jiang , Guan Sujun
Published: June 2024

A novel strategy involves depositing Co on P-doped g-C3N5 to create a P-dependent cocatalyst, which addresses the issue of CoOOH·CoOx binding with g-C3N5 and enhances photocatalytic efficiency by suppressing fast carrier recombination.
Association between dietary quality and accelerated aging: a cross-sectional study of two cohorts
Authors: Chen Yue , Zheng Xin , Wang Yiming , Liu Chenan , Shi Jinyu , Liu Tong , Lin Shiqi , Xie Hailun , Zhang Heyang , Liu Xiaoyue , Bu Zhaoting , Deng Li , Wu Shouling , Shi Hanping
Published: June 2024

Diet quality significantly influences aging processes and age-related health outcomes.
Progress on aqueous rechargeable aluminium metal batteries
Authors: Wang Xiaotian , Xi Zihang , Zhao Qing
Published: June 2024

The progress on aqueous rechargeable aluminium metal batteries is summarized based on the aspects of designing the Al anode and interphase, modifying the electrolyte, and fabricating cathodes.
Cement retarding mechanism of phosphonates and their interaction with aluminium
Authors: Axthammer Daniel , Dengler Joachim
Published: June 2024

Phosphonates show a broad variety of structures. This work shows the correlation of molecular structure and performance in cement.