bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solvent‐free selective oxidation of ethylbenzene with molecular oxygen catalyzed by cobalt catalysts supported on exfoliated carbon nitride
Authors: Zhu Ye , Yu Lin‐Zhi , Wang Fei , Xu Jie , Xue Bing
Published: July 2023

Exfoliated graphitic carbon nitride (eg‐C3N4) material was applied as a support to load cobalt catalysts (CoOx/eg‐C3N4) through a simple impregnation method. The physical and chemical properties of the synthesized CoOx/eg‐C3N4materials were characterized by a series of analytic techniques including XRD, SEM, FT‐IR, UV–vis, and XPS. The characterization results revealed that the introduction of Co2+species had not altered the graphitic structure of eg‐C3N4. The Co2+species probably coordinatively interact with the nitrogen‐containing group of eg‐C3N4. The catalytic performances of the CoOx/eg‐C3N4were evaluated in the solvent‐free selective oxidation of ethylbenzene (EB) using molecular oxygen as an oxidant. Among the 3CoOx/eg‐C3N4materials with various preparation temperatures, 3CoOx/eg‐C3N4‐400 exhibited the highest EB conversion, which was owing to its superior percentages of Co2+and tertiary nitrogen species.
A Triazole‐Based Covalent Gel Loaded with Cu/Pd Bimetallic Nanoparticles for Efficient Catalytic Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Wu Jinyi , Cui Jiawei , Ma Shasha , Zhang Jianyong
Published: July 2023

Metal nanoparticles immobilized in the confined space are a catalogue of efficient and widely used catalysts. Herein we develop a gel‐based bimetallic nanoparticle catalytic system with different ratios of Pd/Cu NPs by wet impregnation and reduction using a stable covalent gel (triazole‐A1B1) as a porous support. Triazole‐A1B1 gel is synthesized from 1,4‐diazidobenzene (A1) and tetrakis(4‐ethynylphenyl)methane (B1) via Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne clcloaddition. The bimetallic Pd/Cu metal nanoparticles are highly dispersed and uniformly distributed with an average particle size distribution of 2.06–3.29 nm. Cu/Pd@A1B1 shows high catalytic efficiency in catalyzing Sonogashira‐Hagihara and Mizoroki‐Heck coupling reactions. The introduction of oxygenophilic Cu effectively improves the catalytic activity of the system. In addition, Cu1Pd2@A1B1 shows good reusability. Especially, it can be reused five times and maintains high catalytic activity without significant deactivation in Mizoroki‐Heck coupling reaction.
Uncovering Adenosine‐Specific Signals: A Label‐Free Aptamer‐Based Approach with Gold Nanoparticles for Specific Detection
Authors: Ngoc Tran Bich , Thanh Pham Hien , Ngoc Pham Mai Thi , Anh Nguyen Huong Thi , Nguyen Quang Duc , Nguyen Huong Thu , Tu Minh Binh , Pham Bach
Published: July 2023

We present a novel colorimetric aptasensing method for specific adenosine (Ade) detection based on complementary aptamer hybridization and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Unlike traditional approaches, our method overcomes limitations of selectivity and specificity by incorporating an additional step involving the complementary strand of the aptamer (c‐Ade aptamer) after incubating Ade with the aptamer. In the absence of Ade, the c‐Ade aptamer hybridizes with the aptamer, causing AuNPs aggregation and a blue color change. However, in the presence of Ade, the aptamer‐bound target prevents hybridization, allowing the free c‐Ade aptamer to adsorb onto the AuNPs, resulting in a red color change. This unique color reversal distinguishes our approach from conventional label‐free methods. We optimized the detection conditions, including incubation time and salt concentration, to enhance sensitivity and reproducibility. The calibration curve exhibited a linear relationship between the colorimetric response and Ade concentration, with a limit of detection of 3.0±0.8 nM. Our method demonstrated excellent selectivity for Ade, even in the presence of structurally similar interfering compounds. Furthermore, we successfully applied our approach to detect Ade in complex biological samples with minimal sample preparation. Our colorimetric aptasensing method offers a simple, cost‐effective, and specific tool for detecting targets in various applications.
Rubber effect on metallic dampers used on the supports of steel cross members
Authors: Balik Fatih Suleyman , Bahadir Fatih
Published: July 2023

There are many strengthening methods made with steel cross members for strengthening the structures with inadequate earthquake behavior. This type of strengthening methods is also effective in buckling of the cross members in the behavior of the structural frames. This buckling may cause partial or complete collapse of the structure. Thus, it is quite important to prevent and limit the formation of buckling in steel crosses. At the TEC 2018, the insulation unit is defined as the elements that can exhibit flexible behavior on the horizontal direction and rigid behavior on the vertical direction under the effect of earthquake loads. The basic principle of using insulation units is that these members can dissipate energy in the carrier system. The originality of this study is to experimentally investigate the damper behavior created by using cylindrical rubber wedges, which can be easily found in the automotive industry, in combination with steel plates and bolts. In this experimental study, the contribution of seismic insulators to the structural element to be strengthened was investigated. The insulators used in this study are considered by analogy with lead‐core rubber insulators. As such seismic lead‐core rubber insulators move under the influence of lateral loads, the lead core inside makes plastic deformation, thus increasing the damping rate. In this insulator study, it is aimed to use U plates or bolts instead of lead core. While vertical loads are covered by rubber support, horizontal loads will be damped due to plastic deformation of U plates or bolts. The five types of seismic dampers were used as 10 B‐type rubber wedge mounted damper (SR), 2 U‐type steel plates damper (SP), 10 M6 steel bolted damper (SB), 2 U‐type steel plates and 10 B‐type rubber wedge mounted damper (SPR), 10 M6 steel bolted, and 10 C‐type rubber wedge mounted damper (SBR). These specimens were tested under lateral loading and constant vertical loading. The results obtained at the end of the tests shall be compared considering the strength, stiffness, and dissipated energy capacities of the specimens.
Influence of grass root density on gas permeability and water retention in water hyacinth‐based biochar amended soil
Authors: Chen Boneng , Zhang Siyi , Huang Xilong , Cai Weiling , Garg Ankit , Bogireddy Chandra
Published: July 2023

The present study focuses on the effect of root density on gas permeability and water retention in biochar‐amended soil used as a cover material in landfills. Biochar amendment of soil is important measurement in landfill cover, while vegetation is an important for ecological restoration. Despite its importance, little attention has been given to the adaptation of vegetated biochar‐amended soil in landfill cover. The interactions between the biochar, vegetation, and soil concerning the gas permeability remain unknown, which may lead to unexpectedly increased waste gas emissions in landfill covers. To enhance the utilization efficiency of biochar amendment and vegetation techniques in landfill covers, further investigation of their coupled effects on gas permeability and water retention is necessary. Four different treatments were applied to manufacture series of soil columns: bare soil (BS), biochar‐soil composite (BSC), vegetated biochar‐soil composite with low planting density (VBSCL) and high planting density (VBSCH). The soil water characteristic curve and gas permeability were observed under natural wetting and drying cycles. The results showed that VBSCL increased gas permeability by 142% as compared to BSC. VBSCH enhanced gas permeability by 168% as compared to BSC. This was due to the spreading and decaying root systems forming preferential pathways for gas transfer. Additionally, VBSCL and VBSCH made around a 10% increase in volume water content at the whole suction range, while BSC just enhanced around 20% water content at the low suction range (less than 10 kPa). The combination of roots and biochar have significantly enhanced water retention during entire suction range due to capillarity.
Yellow Fever Reemergence Risk in the Guiana Shield: a Comprehensive Review of Cases Between 1990 and 2022
Authors: Thomas Caroline , Michaud Céline , Gaillet Mélanie , Carrión-Nessi Fhabián S. , Forero-Peña David A. , Lacerda Marcus Vinícius Guimarães , Duchemin Jean-Bernard , Rodovalho Sheila , Vreden Stephen , Ramos Ruth , Nacher Mathieu , Rousseau Cyril , Sanna Alice , de Waard Jacobus , Tardieu Laurène , Lekieffre Maud , Cossard Yann , Djossou Félix , de Thoisy Benoit , Blanchet Denis , Rousset Dominique , Kallel Hatem , Pujo Jean , Epelboin Loïc
Published: July 2023

Purpose of Review

The aim of this study was to compile all cases of yellow fever (YF) recorded in the Guiana Shield (GS), a region located on the northeastern shore of South America.

Recent Findings

Yellow fever causes several deaths in French Guiana during the last years. In this context, we wanted to know if it was due to a lack of vaccination or a reemergence of YF as in Brazil and if it was the same trouble in the neighborhood countries.

People living in or returning from the GS with YF-compatible symptoms confirmed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction between 1990 and 2022 were included. In French Guiana (FG), patients were identified through results from the National Reference Center for Arboviruses at the Pasteur Institute in FG and hospital medical charts. For the other countries, medical literature and the WHO database were reviewed. Public health and infectious diseases specialists were solicited to identify unknown and unpublished cases. Nine patients were identified in the study period: five in FG, two in Venezuela, one in Suriname, one in Brazil, including six autochthonous people, Guiana Shield native, and three tourists. The case fatality rate was 7/9 (78%) within 8 days (range: 7–11 days). The M/F sex ratio was 6/3 (2). They had severe liver involvement progressing to multivisceral failure in 89% of cases. Only the two native Amerindian patients in FG had previously benefited from a YF vaccination in childhood and/or for more than 10 years. In conclusion, the sylvatic cycle of the YF virus is likely to persist in this region. Absence of vaccination or unknown immunization status was documented in most patients (78%). The mortality rate of this case series was high thus highlighting the need to strengthen vaccination coverage for the population and travelers to the GS.
A knowledge-based task planning approach for robot multi-task manipulation
Authors: Zheng Deshuai , Yan Jin , Xue Tao , Liu Yong
Published: July 2023

Task planning is a crucial component in facilitating robot multi-task manipulations. Language-based task planning methods offer practicality in receiving commands from humans in real-life scenarios and require only low-cost labeled data. However, existing methods often rely on sequence models for planning, which primarily focus on mapping language to sequences of sub-tasks while neglecting the knowledge about tasks and objects. To overcome these limitations, we propose a knowledge-based task planning approach called Recurrent Graph Convolutional Network (RGCN). It is devised with a novel structure that combined GCN (Kipf and Welling in International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR), 2017) and LSTM (Hochreiter and chmidhuber in Neural Comput 9 (8): 1735-1780, 1997. https://doi.org/10.1162/neco.1997.9.8.1735) which enables it to leverage knowledge graph data and historical predictions. The experimental results demonstrate that our approach achieves the impressive task planning success rate of $${95.7\%}$$

95.7
%

, surpassing the best baseline method significantly, which achieves $${78.7\%}$$

78.7
%

. Furthermore, we evaluate the performance of multi-task manipulation across a specific set of 20 tasks within a simulated environment. Notably, RGCN combined with pre-trained primitive tasks exhibits the highest success rate compared with state-of-art multi-task learning methods. Our method is proven to be significant for language-conditioned task planning and is qualified for instructing robots for multi-task manipulation.
A many-objective evolutionary algorithm with metric-based reference vector adjustment
Authors: Wang Xujian , Zhang Fenggan , Yao Minli
Published: July 2023

To deal with the inconsistency of the distribution of reference vectors (RVs) and the shape of Pareto front in decomposition-based multiobjective evolutionary algorithms, many literatures proposed to adjust RVs in evolutionary process. However, most of the existing algorithms adjust RVs either in each generation or at a fixed frequency, not considering the evolving information of the population. To tackle this issue, we propose a many-objective evolutionary algorithm with metric-based reference vector adjustment named MBRA. To adjust RVs periodically and conditionally, we use the improvement rate of convergence degree of subproblems computed throughd1distance to reflect the whole convergence of the population. Only when the subproblems are considered convergent on the whole, are RVs allowed to be adjusted: delete the invalid RVs associated with no solutions and add new ones using the farthest solution in the subregion of the most crowded RVs for diversity. Besides, in mating selection and environmental selection, we adopt the sum of objectives and fitness-based sorting based on$$I_{\varepsilon + }$$Iε+as the secondary principles to promote convergence, respectively. Validated through extensive experiments, MBRA is effective and competitive on many-objective optimization problems, especially for problems with irregular Pareto fronts.
Can the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) be a predictive instrument for mortality in older adult liver transplant candidates?
Authors: Vogliotti Edoardo , Ceolin Chiara , Valenti Matteo , Vanin Jessica , Campodall’Orto Carlotta , Tonon Marta , Zanforlini Bruno Micael , Curreri Chiara , Devita Maria , De Rui Marina , Coin Alessandra , Cillo Umberto , Burra Patrizia , Angeli Paolo , Sergi Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The most recent guidelines recommend that selection of liver transplant recipient patients be guided by a multidimensional approach that includes frailty assessment. Different scales have been developed to identify frail patients and determine their prognosis, but the data on older adult candidates are still inconclusive. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of the Liver Frailty Index (LFI) and the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) as predictors of mortality in a cohort of older people patients being evaluated for liver transplantation.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted on 68 patients > 70 years being followed at the University Hospital of Padua in 2018. Clinical information on each patient, Model For End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD), Body Mass Index (BMI), Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), LFI, MPI, and date-of-death, were recorded. The observational period was 3 years.

Results

We studied 68 individuals (25 women), with a mean age 72.21 ± 1.64 years. Twenty-five (36.2%) patients died during the observational period. ROC curve analysis showed both MPI and LFI to be good predictors of mortality (AUC 0.7, p = 0.007, and AUC 0.689, p = 0.015, respectively). MELD (HR 1.99, p = 0.001), BMI (HR 2.34, p = 0.001), and poor ADL (HR 3.34, p = 0.04) were risk factors for mortality in these patients, while male sex (HR 0.1, p = 0.01) and high MNA scores (HR 0.57, p = 0.01) were protective factors.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed the prognostic value of MPI in older adult patients awaiting liver transplantation. In this cohort, good nutritional status and male sex were protective factors, while high MELD and BMI scores and poor functional status were risk factors.
Validierung eines Tests zur Erfassung des mathematikdidaktischen Wissens von Lehramtsstudierenden der Primarstufe
Authors: Jenßen Lars , Lehmann Malte , Laschke Christin , Roesken-Winter Bettina , Eilerts Katja
Published: July 2023

Mathematikdidaktisches Wissen stellt eine zentrale Komponente der professionellen Kompetenz von (angehenden) Primarstufenlehrkräften im Bereich Mathematik dar, die mit situationsspezifischen Fertigkeiten zusammenhängt und, vermittelt über das professionelle Handeln, Effekte auf die mathematischen Leistungen von Schüler:innen haben kann. Um mathematikdidaktisches Wissen im Zusammenhang mit anderen Komponenten professioneller Kompetenz (z. B. Emotionen, Überzeugungen, Handlungsplanung, Instruktionsqualität) untersuchen zu können, bedarf es eines ökonomischen und frei verfügbaren Tests, welcher gängige Gütekriterien hinreichend erfüllt. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt die Validierung eines solchen Tests vor. Entsprechend der Teststandards werden Grundnahmen in den Evidenzkategorien Inhalt, Struktur und Beziehungen zu anderen Variablen untersucht, um zu prüfen, ob die Testscores Schlussfolgerungen zum Konstrukt mathematikdidaktisches Wissen von Lehramtsstudierenden der Primarstufe zulassen. Die Ergebnisse liefern Validitätsargumente, die auf eine hinreichend hohe Reliabilität des Tests hinweisen und für theoriekonforme Schlussfolgerungen basierend auf den Testwerten sprechen. Der Beitrag schließt ab mit einer integrativen Betrachtung der Validierungsevidenzen, die für den Test bisher vorliegen.
Recommender Systems for Outdoor Adventure Tourism Sports: Hiking, Running and Climbing
Authors: Ivanova Iustina , Wald Mike
Published: July 2023

Adventure tourism is a popular and growing segment within the tourism industry that involves, but is not limited to, hiking, running, and climbing activities. These activities attract investment from foreign travelers interested in practicing sports while exploring other countries. As a result, many software companies started developing Artificial Intelligence solutions to enhance tourists’ outdoor adventure experience. One of the leading technologies in this field is recommender systems, which provide personalized recommendations to tourists based on their preferences. While this topic is actively being researched in some sports (running and hiking), other adventure sports disciplines have yet to be fully explored. To standardize the development of intelligence-based recommender systems, we conducted a systematic literature review on more than a thousand scientific papers published in decision support system applications in three outdoor adventure sports, such as running, hiking, and sport climbing. Hence, the main focus of this work is, firstly, to summarize the state-of-the-art methods and techniques being researched and developed by scientists in recommender systems in adventure tourism, secondly, to provide a unified methodology for software solutions designed in this domain, and thirdly, to give further insights into open possibilities in this topic. This literature survey serves as a unified framework for the future development of technologies in adventure tourism. Moreover, this paper seeks to guide the development of more effective and personalized recommendation systems.
Seasonal and regional variations of atmospheric ammonia across the South Korean Peninsula
Authors: Park Taehyun , Singh Rahul , Ban Jihee , Kim Kyunghoon , Park Gyutae , Kang Seokwon , Choi Siyoung , Song Jeongin , Yu Dong-Gil , Bae Min-Suk , Ahn Junyoung , Jung Hae-Jin , Lim Yong-Jae , Kim Hyun Woong , Hwang Tae Kyung , Choi Yu Jin , Kim Soo-Young , Kim Hyo Seon , Chang Yu Woon , Shin Hye Jung , Lim Yunsung , Lee Jongtae , Park Jinsoo , Choi Jinsoo , Lee Taehyoung
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to identify the factors causing NH3 emissions in the South Korean Peninsula and West Sea region. To analyze the trends of NH3 and other air pollutants, such as NOx, CO, and NR-PM1, we collected samples from six supersites across the peninsula, a roadside in Seoul, and the West Sea over different sampling periods, ranging from 1 month to 1 year. The highest NH3 concentrations were found at rural areas, ascribed to agricultural activities, particularly NH4NO3 decomposition at high summer temperatures. Areas with low population densities recorded the lowest NH3 concentrations, attributed to the lack of anthropogenic activities. A roadside field experiment confirmed the close link between ambient NH3 and vehicle emissions in urban regions by showing a strong correlation between CO and NOx concentrations and that of NH3. Moreover, we examined oceanic emissions near the eastern coast of South Korea in the West Sea. Long-range transportation studies confirmed that most of the pollutants (NH3, CO, and PM1) were transported by wind from the northeastern region of China. A maritime origin study showed that oceanic emissions and NH4NO3 decomposition in the atmosphere owing to high temperatures were the causing NH3 pollution. These findings provided valuable insights into the emission sources of NH3 in primary air pollutants in South Korea, highlighting the contributions of land-based and oceanic sources. Our study can help inform policymakers and stakeholders for developing effective regional air pollution control strategies.
MRI detects increased aortic stiffening and myocardial dysfunction after TEVAR of blunt injury in young patients
Authors: Ghazy Tamer , Kirstein Bettina , Tomala Jakub , Kalaja Igli , Herold Jörg , Irqsusi Marc , Rastan Ardawan , Karl Lackner Helmut , Weiss Norbert , Mahlmann Adrian
Published: July 2023

Summary: Background: Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is a well-established technique for the management of blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI). Despite improvements in vascular imaging, graft material properties, and implant techniques, stent-graft deployment artificially induces aortic stiffening. This study aimed to evaluate the midterm effect of thoracic endovascular aortic repair after blunt thoracic aortic injury on aortic stiffness and cardiac function in young patients using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Patients and methods: From all patients who underwent TEVAR for BTAI between 2009 and 2019 in a single institution, 10 patients with no other comorbidities affecting arterial stiffness were sex-, age-, height-, and body surface area-matched to 10 healthy controls. Comprehensive CMR examination was performed in all controls and patients. The mean follow-up period was 5.4±1.8 years; the mean age at the time of TEVAR was 30.3±8.7 years. Results: Four patients who underwent TEVAR developed arterial hypertension. 4D flow CMR-based analysis demonstrated higher global pulse wave velocity (PWV) in TEVAR patients than in controls (p=0.012). Segmental analysis showed a higher PWV in the descending and abdominal aorta. The indexed diameter of the ascending aorta was larger in TEVAR patients than in controls (p=0.007). The CINE acquisitions demonstrated increased left ventricular myocardial thickness (p<0.001). The 3D global diastolic strain rate and diastolic longitudinal velocity (e′) decreased, and the A-wave velocity increased. Native myocardial T1 values were significantly higher in TEVAR patients (p=0.037). Conclusions: Young patients with TEVAR after BTAI are at an increased risk of developing vascular and myocardial dysfunction due to increased aortic stiffness. CMR follow-up allows for a comprehensive and radiation-free evaluation of vascular stiffness and associated myocardial changes, especially at the early and subclinical stages.
Alteration of extracellular matrix proteins in atrophic periodontal ligament of hypofunctional rat molars
Authors: Nan Daneeya Na , Everts Vincent , Ferreira Joao N. , Trachoo Vorapat , Osathanon Thanaphum , Klincumhom Nuttha , Pavasant Prasit
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of mechanical force on possible dynamic changes of the matrix proteins deposition in the PDL upon in vitro mechanical and in vivo occlusal forces in a rat model with hypofunctional conditions.

Materials and methods

Intermittent compressive force (ICF) and shear force (SF) were applied to human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). Protein expression of collagen I and POSTN was analyzed by western blot technique. To establish an in vivo model, rat maxillary molars were extracted to facilitate hypofunction of the periodontal ligament (PDL) tissue of the opposing mandibular molar. The mandibles were collected after 4-, 8-, and 12-weeks post-extraction and used for micro-CT and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

ICF and SF increased the synthesis of POSTN by human PDLSCs. Histological changes in the hypofunctional teeth revealed a narrowing of the PDL space, along with a decreased amount of collagen I, POSTN, and laminin in perivascular structures compared to the functional contralateral molars.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that loss of occlusal force disrupts deposition of some major matrix proteins in the PDL, underscoring the relevance of mechanical forces in maintaining periodontal tissue homeostasis by modulating ECM composition.
Salicylic acid metabolism and signalling coordinate senescence initiation in aspen in nature
Authors: Lihavainen Jenna , Šimura Jan , Bag Pushan , Fataftah Nazeer , Robinson Kathryn Megan , Delhomme Nicolas , Novák Ondřej , Ljung Karin , Jansson Stefan
Published: July 2023

Deciduous trees exhibit a spectacular phenomenon of autumn senescence driven by the seasonality of their growth environment, yet there is no consensus which external or internal cues trigger it. Senescence starts at different times in European aspen (Populus tremulaL.) genotypes grown in same location. By integrating omics studies, we demonstrate that aspen genotypes utilize similar transcriptional cascades and metabolic cues to initiate senescence, but at different times during autumn. The timing of autumn senescence initiation appeared to be controlled by two consecutive “switches”; 1) first the environmental variation induced the rewiring of the transcriptional network, stress signalling pathways and metabolic perturbations and 2) the start of senescence process was defined by the ability of the genotype to activate and sustain stress tolerance mechanisms mediated by salicylic acid. We propose that salicylic acid represses the onset of leaf senescence in stressful natural conditions, rather than promoting it as often observed in annual plants.
Coherent movement of error-prone individuals through mechanical coupling
Authors: Pratissoli Federico , Reina Andreagiovanni , Kaszubowski Lopes Yuri , Pinciroli Carlo , Miyauchi Genki , Sabattini Lorenzo , Groß Roderich
Published: July 2023

We investigate how reliable movement can emerge in aggregates of highly error-prone individuals. The individuals—robotic modules—move stochastically using vibration motors. By coupling them via elastic links, soft-bodied aggregates can be created. We present distributed algorithms that enable the aggregates to move and deform reliably. The concept and algorithms are validated through formal analysis of the elastic couplings and experiments with aggregates comprising up to 49 physical modules—among the biggest soft-bodied aggregates to date made of autonomous modules. The experiments show that aggregates with elastic couplings can shrink and stretch their bodies, move with a precision that increases with the number of modules, and outperform aggregates with no, or rigid, couplings. Our findings demonstrate that mechanical couplings can play a vital role in reaching coherent motion among individuals with exceedingly limited and error-prone abilities, and may pave the way for low-power, stretchable robots for high-resolution monitoring and manipulation.
Sulfate triple-oxygen-isotope evidence confirming oceanic oxygenation 570 million years ago
Authors: Wang Haiyang , Peng Yongbo , Li Chao , Cao Xiaobin , Cheng Meng , Bao Huiming
Published: July 2023

The largest negative inorganic carbon isotope excursion in Earth’s history, namely the Ediacaran Shuram Excursion (SE), closely followed by early animal radiation, has been widely interpreted as a consequence of oceanic oxidation. However, the primary nature of the signature, source of oxidants, and tempo of the event remain contested. Here, we show that carbonate-associated sulfate (CAS) from three different paleocontinents all have conspicuous negative 17O anomalies (Δ′17OCAS values down to −0.53‰) during the SE. Furthermore, the Δ′17OCAS varies in correlation with its corresponding δ34SCAS and δ18OCAS as well as the carbonate δ13Ccarb, decreasing initially followed by a recovery over the ~7-Myr SE duration. In a box-model examination, we argue for a period of sustained water-column ventilation and consequently enhanced sulfur oxidation in the SE ocean. Our findings reveal a direct involvement of mass-anomalously 17O-depleted atmospheric O2 in marine sulfate formation and thus a primary global oceanic oxygenation event during the SE.
Liquid-in-liquid printing of 3D and mechanically tunable conductive hydrogels
Authors: Xie Xinjian , Xu Zhonggang , Yu Xin , Jiang Hong , Li Hongjiao , Feng Wenqian
Published: July 2023

Conductive hydrogels require tunable mechanical properties, high conductivity and complicated 3D structures for advanced functionality in (bio)applications. Here, we report a straightforward strategy to construct 3D conductive hydrogels by programable printing of aqueous inks rich in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) inside of oil. In this liquid-in-liquid printing method, assemblies of PEDOT:PSS colloidal particles originating from the aqueous phase and polydimethylsiloxane surfactants from the other form an elastic film at the liquid-liquid interface, allowing trapping of the hydrogel precursor inks in the designed 3D nonequilibrium shapes for subsequent gelation and/or chemical cross-linking. Conductivities up to 301 S m−1 are achieved for a low PEDOT:PSS content of 9 mg mL−1 in two interpenetrating hydrogel networks. The effortless printability enables us to tune the hydrogels’ components and mechanical properties, thus facilitating the use of these conductive hydrogels as electromicrofluidic devices and to customize near-field communication (NFC) implantable biochips in the future.
Anomalous polarization enhancement in a van der Waals ferroelectric material under pressure
Authors: Yao Xiaodong , Bai Yinxin , Jin Cheng , Zhang Xinyu , Zheng Qunfei , Xu Zedong , Chen Lang , Wang Shanmin , Liu Ying , Wang Junling , Zhu Jinlong
Published: July 2023

CuInP2S6 with robust room-temperature ferroelectricity has recently attracted much attention due to the spatial instability of its Cu cations and the van der Waals (vdW) layered structure. Herein, we report a significant enhancement of its remanent polarization by more than 50% from 4.06 to 6.36 µC cm−2 under a small pressure between 0.26 to 1.40 GPa. Comprehensive analysis suggests that even though the hydrostatic pressure suppresses the crystal distortion, it initially forces Cu cations to largely occupy the interlayer sites, causing the spontaneous polarization to increase. Under intermediate pressure, the condensation of Cu cations to the ground state and the polarization increase due cell volume reduction compensate each other, resulting in a constant polarization. Under high pressure, the migration of Cu cations to the center of the S octahedron dominates the polarization decrease. These findings improve our understanding of this fascinating vdW ferroelectric material, and suggest new ways to improve its properties.
The association between disability progression, relapses, and treatment in early relapse onset MS: an observational, multi-centre, longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Fuh-Ngwa Valery , Charlesworth Jac C. , Zhou Yuan , van der Mei Ingrid , Melton Phillip E. , Broadley Simon A. , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Simpson-Yap Steve , Lechner-Scott Jeannette , Taylor Bruce V.
Published: July 2023

The indirect contribution of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses to disability worsening outcomes, and vice-versa, remains unclear. Disease modifying therapies (DMTs) are potential modulators of this association. Understanding how these endo-phenotypes interact may provide insights into disease pathogenesis and treatment practice in relapse-onset MS (ROMS). Utilising a unique, prospectively collected clinical data from a longitudinal cohort of 279 first demyelinating event cases followed for up to 15 years post-onset, we examined indirect associations between relapses and treatment and the risk of disability worsening, and vice-versa. Indirect association parameters were estimated using joint models for longitudinal and survival data. Early relapses within 2.5 years of MS onset predicted early disability worsening outcomes (HR = 3.45, C.I 2.29–3.61) per relapse, but did not contribute to long-term disability worsening thereinafter (HR = 0.21, C.I 0.15–0.28). Conversely, disability worsening outcomes significantly contributed to relapse risk each year (HR = 2.96, C.I 2.91–3.02), and persisted over time (HR = 3.34, C.I 2.90–3.86), regardless of DMT treatments. The duration of DMTs significantly reduced the hazards of relapses (1st-line DMTs: HR = 0.68, C.I 0.58–0.79; 3rd-line DMTs: HR = 0.37, C.I 0.32–0.44) and disability worsening events (1st-line DMTs: HR = 0.74, C.I 0.69–0.79; 3rd-line DMTs: HR = 0.90, C.I 0.85–0.95), respectively. Results from time-dynamic survival probabilities further revealed individuals having higher risk of future relapses and disability worsening outcomes, respectively. The study provided evidence that in ROMS, relapses accrued within 2.5 years of MS onset are strong indicators of disability worsening outcomes, but late relapses accrued 2.5 years post onset are not overt risk factors for further disability worsening. In contrast, disability worsening outcomes are strong positive predictors of current and subsequent relapse risk. Long-term DMT use and older age strongly influence the individual outcomes and their associations.
Chemical bonding in americium oxides probed by X-ray spectroscopy
Authors: Butorin Sergei M. , Shuh David K.
Published: July 2023

The electronic structure and the chemical state in Am binary oxides and Am-doped UO$$_2$$

2

were studied by means of X-ray absorption spectroscopy at shallow Am core (4d and 5d) edges. In particular, the Am 5f states were probed and the nature of their bonding to the oxygen states was analyzed. The interpretation of the experimental data was supported by the Anderson impurity model (AIM) calculations which took into account the full multiplet structure due to the interaction between 5f electrons as well as the interaction with the core hole. The sensitivity of the branching ratio of the Am $$4d_{3/2}$$

4

d

3
/
2

and $$4d_{5/2}$$

4

d

5
/
2

X-ray absorption lines to the chemical state of Am was shown using Am binary oxides as reference systems. The observed ratio for Am-doped UO$$_2$$

2

suggests that at least at low Am concentrations, americium is in the Am(III) state in the UO$$_2$$

2

lattice. To confirm the validity of the applied AIM approach, the analysis of the Am 4f X-ray photoelectron spectra of AmO$$_2$$

2

and Am$$_2$$

2

O$$_3$$

3

was also performed which revealed a good agreement between experiment and calculations. As a whole, AmO$$_2$$

2

can be classified as the charge-transfer compound with the 5f occupancy ($$n_f$$

n
f

) equal to 5.73 electrons, while Am$$_2$$

2

O$$_3$$

3

is rather a Mott–Hubbard system with $$n_f$$

n
f

= 6.05.
Non-volatile reconfigurable spin logic functions in a two-channel Hall bar by spin–orbit torque-based magnetic domains and directional read current
Authors: Shin JeongHun , Seo Jeongwoo , Song Saegyoung , Kim WooJong , Hyeon Da Seul , Hong JinPyo
Published: July 2023

A long-standing goal of CMOS-based logic devices is to meet the needs of key markets, including ultralow-power operation and high operation speed, along with the continuing miniaturization of the architecture. However, despite significant progress in their development, conventional CMOS-based devices still suffer from drawbacks such as introducing large unintended leakage currents and volatile behavior. Thus, reconfigurable logic gates based on magnetic domain (MD) have emerged as a highly promising option because they offer fast operation speeds, nonvolatility, and diverse logic functions in a single-device configuration. Here, we address multiple reconfigurable MD logic gates in a single two-channel Hall bar device by varying the voltage-driven read-current directions and selecting a non-inverting or inverting comparator in W/CoFeB/MgO/Ta stacks. The non-volatile MD switching behavior induced by spin–orbit torque significantly affects our logic gate functions, which are not necessarily synchronized to a single clock. By adapting MD switching by spin-orbit torque and anomalous Hall effect voltage outputs, we identified eight reconfigurable logic gates, including AND, NAND, NOR, OR, INH, Converse INH, Converse IMP, and IMP, in a single device. These experimental findings represent a significant step forward in a wide range of MD-based logic applications in the near future.
Retinol intake is associated with the risk of chronic kidney disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: results from NHANES
Authors: Ma Rong , Xie Chunpeng , Wang Shaoqing , Xiao Xiang
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential association between retinol intake and the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study included individuals diagnosed with T2DM between 2009 and 2018 from the NHANES database. Demographic and laboratory test data were collected for these individuals, as well as information on CKD diagnosis. Logistic regression models were utilized to estimate the relationship between different retinol intakes and the risk of CKD in patients with T2DM. A total of 3988 patients were included in the study. The mean prevalence of CKD in the T2DM population in the United States from 2009 to 2018 was 36.98 (0.02)%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a 26% decrease in the incidence of CKD in individuals with higher retinol intake compared to those with lower retinol intake in T2DM (OR = 0.74; 95% CI 0.56–0.98). Furthermore, an increase in retinol intake per 1-standard deviation (SD) was associated with a 16% decreased risk of the incidence of CKD (OR = 0.84; 95% CI 0.72–0.97). Lower retinol intake is an independent risk factor for the onset of CKD in patients with T2DM, and augmenting moderate quantities of retinol confers potential nephroprotective advantages.
Insights into peculiar fungal LPMO family members holding a short C-terminal sequence reminiscent of phosphate binding motifs
Authors: Reyre Jean-Lou , Grisel Sacha , Haon Mireille , Xiang Ruite , Gaillard Jean-Charles , Armengaud Jean , Guallar Victor , Margeot Antoine , Arragain Simon , Berrin Jean-Guy , Bissaro Bastien
Published: July 2023

Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) are taxonomically widespread copper-enzymes boosting biopolymers conversion (e.g. cellulose, chitin) in Nature. White-rot Polyporales, which are major fungal wood decayers, may possess up to 60 LPMO-encoding genes belonging to the auxiliary activities family 9 (AA9). Yet, the functional relevance of such multiplicity remains to be uncovered. Previous comparative transcriptomic studies of six Polyporales fungi grown on cellulosic substrates had shown the overexpression of numerous AA9-encoding genes, including some holding a C-terminal domain of unknown function (“X282”). Here, after carrying out structural predictions and phylogenetic analyses, we selected and characterized six AA9-X282s with different C-term modularities and atypical features hitherto unreported. Unexpectedly, after screening a large array of conditions, these AA9-X282s showed only weak binding properties to cellulose, and low to no cellulolytic oxidative activity. Strikingly, proteomic analysis revealed the presence of multiple phosphorylated residues at the surface of these AA9-X282s, including a conserved residue next to the copper site. Further analyses focusing on a 9 residues glycine-rich C-term extension suggested that it could hold phosphate-binding properties. Our results question the involvement of these AA9 proteins in the degradation of plant cell wall and open new avenues as to the divergence of function of some AA9 members.
Immunogenicity and safety of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in haemodialysis patients: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Puspitasari Metalia , Sattwika Prenali D. , Rahari Dzerlina S. , Wijaya Wynne , Hidayat Auliana R. P. , Kertia Nyoman , Purwanto Bambang , Thobari Jarir At
Published: July 2023

End-stage renal disease patients on haemodialysis (HD) have been largely excluded from SARS-CoV-2 vaccine trials due to safety reasons and shown to mount lower responses to vaccination. This study aims to evaluate the immunogenicity and safety of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine among HD patients compared to healthy controls. All subjects who received the primary inactivated COVID-19 vaccination had their blood samples tested 21 days after the second dose. We report the immunogenicity based on anti-RBD IgG titre (IU/mL), the inhibition rate of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) (%) to RBD, and seroconversion rates. Adverse events were assessed within 30 min and on the 7th day after each dose. Among 75 HD patients and 71 healthy controls, we observed no significant difference in all immunogenicity measures: anti-RBD IgG GMT (277.91 ± 7.13 IU/mL vs. 315.50 ± 3.50 IU/mL, p = 0.645), NAbs inhibition rate (82% [53–96] vs. 84% [39–98], p = 0.654), and seroconversion rates (anti-RBD IgG: 86.7% vs. 85.9%, p = 0.895; NAbs: 45.3% vs. 60.6%, p = 0.065). The number of adverse events is not significantly different between the two groups. The primary inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination elicits an adequate antibody response and can be safely administered in haemodialysis patients.
Switching mechanism from AR to EGFR signaling via 3-O-sulfated heparan sulfate in castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Ota Hayato , Sato Hirokazu , Mizumoto Shuji , Wakai Ken , Yoneda Kei , Yamamoto Kazuo , Nakanishi Hayao , Ikeda Jun-Ichiro , Sakamoto Shinichi , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Yamada Shuhei , Takahashi Satoru , Ikehara Yuzuru , Nishihara Shoko
Published: July 2023

Androgen deprivation therapy is given to suppress prostate cancer growth; however, some cells continue to grow hormone-independently as castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Sulfated glycosaminoglycans promote ligand binding to receptors as co-receptors, but their role in CRPC remains unknown. Using the human prostate cancer cell line C4-2, which can proliferate in hormone-dependent and hormone-independent conditions, we found that epidermal growth factor (EGF)-activated EGFR–ERK1/2 signaling via 3-O-sulfated heparan sulfate (HS) produced by HS 3-O-sulfotransferase 1 (HS3ST1) is activated in C4-2 cells under hormone depletion. Knockdown of HS3ST1 in C4-2 cells suppressed hormone-independent growth, and inhibited both EGF binding to the cell surface and activation of EGFR–ERK1/2 signaling. Gefitinib, an EGFR inhibitor, significantly suppressed C4-2 cell proliferation and growth of a xenografted C4-2 tumor in castrated mouse. Collectively, our study has revealed a mechanism by which cancer cells switch to hormone-independent growth and identified the key regulator as 3-O-sulfated HS.
Amphioxus adenosine-to-inosine tRNA-editing enzyme that can perform C-to-U and A-to-I deamination of DNA
Authors: Gao Zhan , Jiang Wanyue , Zhang Yu , Zhang Liping , Yi Mengmeng , Wang Haitao , Ma Zengyu , Qu Baozhen , Ji Xiaohan , Long Hongan , Zhang Shicui
Published: July 2023

Adenosine-to-inosine tRNA-editing enzyme has been identified for more than two decades, but the study on its DNA editing activity is rather scarce. We show that amphioxus (Branchiostoma japonicum) ADAT2 (BjADAT2) contains the active site ‘HxE-PCxxC’ and the key residues for target-base-binding, and amphioxus ADAT3 (BjADAT3) harbors both the N-terminal positively charged region and the C-terminal pseudo-catalytic domain important for recognition of substrates. The sequencing of BjADAT2-transformed Escherichia coli genome suggests that BjADAT2 has the potential to target E. coli DNA and can deaminate at TCG and GAA sites in the E. coli genome. Biochemical analyses further demonstrate that BjADAT2, in complex with BjADAT3, can perform A-to-I editing of tRNA and convert C-to-U and A-to-I deamination of DNA. We also show that BjADAT2 preferentially deaminates adenosines and cytidines in the loop of DNA hairpin structures of substrates, and BjADAT3 also affects the type of DNA substrate targeted by BjADAT2. Finally, we find that C89, N113, C148 and Y156 play critical roles in the DNA editing activity of BjADAT2. Collectively, our study indicates that BjADAT2/3 is the sole naturally occurring deaminase with both tRNA and DNA editing capacity identified so far in Metazoa.
Alkali-metal bases in catalytic hydrogen isotope exchange processes
Authors: Tortajada Andreu , Hevia Eva
Published: July 2023

Alkali-metal bases can also catalyse Hydrogen Isotope Exchange reactions. This minireview highlights the last developments of the field, their benefits and limitations.
Integrated gut microbiota and fecal metabolome analyses of the effect ofLycium barbarumpolysaccharide ond-galactose-induced premature ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Zheng Huili , Liang Xiaofei , Zhou Hongli , Zhou Tong , Liu Xinhui , Duan Jialun , Duan Jin-ao , Zhu Yue
Published: July 2023

Lycium barbarumpolysaccharides improve ovarian reserve by regulating gut microbiota and related metabolism, which provide beneficial support for its applications in treating premature ovarian insufficiency.
Development of fluorescent carbon nanoparticles fromMadhuca longifoliaflower for the sensitive and selective detection of Cr6+: a collective experimental–computational approach
Authors: Mandal Tuhin , Ghosh Ashish Kumar , Mishra Shiv Rag , Pandey Sarvesh Kumar , Singh Vikram
Published: July 2023

Herein, blue-emitting carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) were synthesized using theMadhuca longifoliaflower for the highly selective and sensitive detection of Cr6+ions in aqueous media using a simple, green, and cost-effective approach.
NOx degradation ability of S-g-C3N4/MgAl-CLDH nanocomposite and its potential application in cement-based materials
Authors: Yang Zhengxian , Xiong Xiaoli , Yan Xueyuan , Luo Shengyang , Zhang Yong , Briseghella Bruno , Marano Giuseppe Carlo
Published: July 2023

Schematic diagram of the synthesis process of S-g-C3N4/MgAl-CLDH photocatalytic composite.
Significance of the connecting position between Zn(ii) porphyrin and Re(i) bipyridine tricarbonyl complex units in dyads for room-temperature phosphorescence and photocatalytic CO2reduction: unexpected enhancement by triethanolamine in catalytic activity
Authors: Kuramochi Yusuke , Suzuki Yuto , Asai Somyo , Suzuki Tomohiro , Iwama Hiroki , Asano Motoko S. , Satake Akiharu
Published: July 2023

In three Zn porphyrin–Re complex dyads, we explored room-temperature phosphorescence and photocatalytic CO2reduction. The dyad with a 5-position linkage to the bipyridine ligand showed notable activity due to dual triethanolamine coordination to Zn and Re ions.
A critical review on rational composition engineering in kesterite photovoltaic devices: self-regulation and mutual synergy
Authors: Guo Jiajia , Ao Jianping , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2023

This review focuses on composition engineering to regulate the physicochemical and optoelectronic properties of CZTSSe and correlates absorbers' bulk and heterojunction interfaces with device performance.
Electrospinning techniques for inorganic–organic composite electrolytes of all-solid-state lithium metal batteries: a brief review
Authors: Wang Peng , Liu Jin-Hua , Cui Wenbo , Li Xuehao , Li Zhi , Wan Yong , Zhang Jun , Long Yun-Ze
Published: July 2023

All-solid-state lithium metal batteries (ASLMBs) have attracted considerable attention owing to their high energy density and as they are highly safe.