bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Impact Energy on the Interface Microstructure of Explosively Clad Mild Steel and Titanium
Authors: Prasanthi T. N. , Parida P. K. , Ravikirana  , Mythili R. , Sudha C.
Published: September 2024

Effect of load ratio (R) on the interface microstructure and phase stability was investigated in mild steel/Grade-2 Ti explosive clads using experimental and JMatPro® computations. At low-impact-energy conditions (i.e., R = 1.07), the interface exhibited a symmetrical wavy morphology with molten metal entrapped in isolated regions within the vortices of the waves, while at high-impact loading conditions (R = 3) the interface had complex weld solidification structure consisting of planar interface, columnar and equiaxed dendrites. Based on the study, it was concluded that under high-impact loading conditions, the interface microstructure of the explosive clads will resemble fusion welded joints, but with relatively lower thickness of the interaction zones.
Effect of mirror system and scanner bed of a flatbed scanner on lateral response artefact in radiochromic film dosimetry
Authors: Shameem Tarafder , Bennie Nick , Butson Martin , Thwaites David
Published: September 2024

Radiochromic film, evaluated with flatbed scanners, is used for practical radiotherapy QA dosimetry. Film and scanner component effects contribute to the Lateral Response Artefact (LRA), which is further enhanced by light polarisation from both. This study investigates the scanner bed’s contribution to LRA and also polarisation from the mirrors for widely used EPSON scanners, as part of broader investigations of this dosimetry method aiming to improve processes and uncertainties. Alternative scanner bed materials were compared on a modified EPSON V700 scanner. Polarisation effects were investigated for complete scanners (V700, V800, on- and off-axis, and V850 on-axis), for a removed V700 mirror system, and independently using retail-quality single mirror combinations simulating practical scanner arrangements, but with varying numbers (0–5) and angles. Some tests had no film present, whilst others included films (EBT3) irradiated to 6 MV doses of 0–11.3 Gy. For polarisation analysis, images were captured by a Canon 7D camera with 50 mm focal length lens. Different scanner bed materials showed only small effects, within a few percent, indicating that the normal glass bed is a good choice. Polarisation varied with scanner type (7–11%), increasing at 10 cm lateral off-axis distance by around a further 6%, and also with film dose. The V700 mirror system showed around 2% difference to the complete scanner. Polarization increased with number of mirrors in the single mirror combinations, to 14% for 4 and 5 mirrors, but specific values depend on angles and mirror quality. Novel film measurement methods could reduce LRA effect corrections and associated uncertainties.
The Conceptual Ecology of “Dysbiosis”
Authors: Kelley David
Published: September 2024

“Dysbiosis” is a common but vague term featured in the microbiome literature, often invoked to indicate some kind of imbalance among microbiota. There is no agreement on how to define or even characterize dysbiotic microbiomes. Building on the work of Morar and Bohannan, who explore five interpretations of “microbiome,” I offer a short supplemental analysis of what plausibly counts as “dysbiosis” according to each of the five distinct conceptions. My aim is to provide a more nuanced basis for interpreting claims, primarily and most generally; and more specifically, provide a basis for those advancing pluralist or eliminativist arguments.
Appraising machine learning algorithms in predicting noise level and emissions from gasoline-powered household backup generators
Authors: Giwa S. O. , Nwaokocha C. N. , Osifeko O. M. , Orogbade B. O. , Taziwa R. T. , Dyantyi N. , Sharifpur M.
Published: September 2024

Machine learning is presently receiving great attention. However, machine learning applications to gasoline engine research are limited. This paper investigated the implementation of various machine learning models in predicting the emissions (CO2, CO, and PM2.5) and noise levels of gasoline-powered household generators for the first time. Data of operating and installed capacity, efficiency (input) and emissions, and noise level (output) obtained from 166 generators were used in extreme gradient boosting, artificial neural network (ANN), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and polynomial regression (PNR) algorithms to develop predictive models. Results revealed high prediction performance (R2 = 0.9377–1.0000) of these algorithms marked with very low errors. The implementation of PNR followed by the RF exhibited the best models for predicting CO2, CO, PM2.5, and the noise level of generators. R2 of 1.000 and 0.9979–0.9994, mean squared error of < 10−6 and 2 × 10−5–8.6 × 10−5, mean absolute percentage error of 9.15 × 10−16–1.3 × 10−15 and 7.1 × 10−3–8.1 × 10−2, and root mean squared error of 3.3 × 10−16–5.4 × 10−16 and 4.4 × 10−3–9.3 × 10−2 were recorded for all the output parameters using PNR and RF respectively. DT models had the least prediction capacity for CO, CO2, and noise levels (R2 = 0.9493–0.9592) while ANN produced the least performance for PM2.5 (R2 = 0.9377). This study further strengthens machine learning applications in engine research for the prediction of various output parameters.
Updated Systematic Review of Suicide in Autism: 2018–2024
Authors: Brown Claire M. , Newell Victoria , Sahin Ensu , Hedley Darren
Published: September 2024

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive update of literature published between January 2018 and April 2024, examining suicidal thoughts and behavior (STB) prevalence, risk factors, theoretical models, and interventions in autism.

Recent findings

We identified four recent meta-analyses and two systematic reviews. Pooled prevalence estimates in autism ranged from 34.2% for suicide ideation to 24.3% for suicide attempts. Autistic traits, interpersonal factors, and depressive symptoms were identified as STB risk factors, with elevated risk observed across the lifespan.

We included 80 studies examining STB in diagnosed autistic people or autistic traits in non-clinical samples. Autistic people were found to have an up to eightfold increased risk of death by suicide compared to non-autistic people, although reported rates varied considerably between studies; co-occurring mental health conditions, social, psychological, and cognitive factors exacerbated risk. Validated STB assessment tools and interventions for autistic people were notably scarce.
Emotional food craving across the eating disorder spectrum: an ecological momentary assessment study
Authors: Arend Ann-Kathrin , Blechert Jens , Yanagida Takuya , Voderholzer Ulrich , Reichenberger Julia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Emotional eating during negative emotions might underlie disordered eating behavior (i.e., binge eating and food restriction). Positive emotions, by contrast, seem to promote healthier eating behavior. Naturalistic research on the links between emotions and eating across individuals with binge-eating disorder (BED), bulimia nervosa (BN), binge-purge anorexia nervosa (AN-BP), and restrictive anorexia nervosa (AN-R) is, however, lacking.

Methods

Individuals without eating disorders (comparison group, CG, n = 85), and patients with BED (n = 41), BN (n = 50), AN-BP (n = 26), and AN-R (n = 29) participated in an ecological momentary assessment study. Six daily notifications over eight days prompted ratings of momentary food craving and emotional states differing in valence and arousal.

Results

Results supported specific emotion-food-craving patterns in each group. Compared to the CG, arousing negative emotions and higher cravings co-occurred in patients with BN. In patients with AN-BP (at trend level also in patients with AN-R) less arousing negative emotions and lower cravings co-occurred. In patients with AN, positive emotions and higher cravings co-occurred whereas in patients with BED less arousing positive emotions and lower cravings co-occurred.

Conclusion

The found emotion-craving associations may underlie group-specific (dys-)functional eating behaviors, i.e., binge eating and food restriction during negative emotions in patients with BN and AN, and normalized appetitive responses during positive emotions in patients with BED and AN. Therapeutic efforts could target arousing negative emotions in patients with BN, and less arousing negative emotions in patients with AN. Positive emotions could be used in a salutogenetic approach in patients with BED and AN.
“Open strategic autonomy” as an industrial policy compass for the EU competitiveness and growth: The good, the bad, or the ugly?
Authors: Mariotti Sergio
Published: September 2024

This paper explores the potential of Open Strategic Autonomy to effectively foster industrial policies that boost EU competitiveness and growth. It investigates changes in the global economy and international order, with a focus on two key concepts: the "win-lose" reconfiguration of globalization and the resurgence of nations as "confrontational states," marked by interventionism, national sovereignty, techno-nationalism, and zero-sum thinking. Within this context, a "new industrial policy" is emerging, driven by a focus on economic autonomy and security. The paper analyzes the industrial strategies and legislative measures adopted by major powers, which are largely designed to weaponize policymaking and international economic relations, including the use of tit-for-tat strategies. It situates the EU within this framework and questions the compatibility and coherence between the emerging European measures inspired by new geo-dirigisme and the principles of an open economy and multilateral cooperation. The conclusion provides criteria for assessing whether Open Strategic Autonomy can serve as a positive guide for industrial policies, rather than a detrimental one.
Weighted Multiple Point Cloud Fusion
Authors: Poku-Agyemang Kwasi Nyarko , Reiterer Alexander
Published: September 2024

Multiple viewpoint 3D reconstruction has been used in recent years to create accurate complete scenes and objects used for various applications. This is to overcome limitations of single viewpoint 3D digital imaging such as occlusion within the scene during the reconstruction process. In this paper, we propose a weighted point cloud fusion process using both local and global spatial information of the point clouds to fuse them together. The process aims to minimize duplication and remove noise while maintaining a consistent level of details using spatial information from point clouds to compute a weight to fuse them. The algorithm improves the overall accuracy of the fused point cloud while maintaining a similar degree of coverage comparable with state-of-the-art point cloud fusion algorithms.
Emerging strategies in plant virus disease control: insights from the 56th meeting of the DPG working group “Viruskrankheiten der Pflanzen”
Authors: Krenz Björn , Niehl Annette , Krczal Gabi
Published: September 2024

Transforming agriculture into a sustainable system includes innovative, safe, and sustainable management of virus diseases. Advances in cutting-edge biotechnological tools, such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9), environmental RNA interference (RNAi), and the application of natural antiviral compounds, present promising new strategies for effective virus control. Highly sensitive and validated diagnostic tools allow early detection and targeted management strategies. The 56th meeting of the Deutsche Phytomedizinische Gesellschaft (DPG) working group on "Viruskrankheiten der Pflanzen" tackled the latest developments and challenges in the field of plant virology in Germany, covering topics on genomic technologies, diagnostics and quarantine regulations, virus–host interaction, virus diversity, plant immunity, and more. A special emphasis lay on the applied side of plant virology, as here, pressing agricultural challenges have to be met. In this perspectives paper, we give a summary on the conference’s findings and highlight possibilities to derive novel strategies for disease control.
Emerging biomarkers for precision diagnosis and personalized treatment of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Addissouky Tamer A. , Sayed Ibrahim El Tantawy El , Ali Majeed M. A. , Wang Yuliang
Published: September 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a fatal genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, disrupting ion transport. This results in organ damage and reduced life expectancy.

Main body of the abstract

Recent therapeutic advances targeting CFTR dysfunction have transformed treatment. CFTR modulator drugs directly target molecular defects underlying CF. Ivacaftor was the first approved potentiator benefiting gating mutations. Correctors like lumacaftor/ivacaftor and newer triple therapy combinations more effectively address the prevalent F508del mutation by improving CFTR processing. Gene and mRNA therapies also show promise, with preclinical studies editing CFTR in stem cell-derived epithelia and mRNA supplementation stabilizing acute exacerbations.

Short conclusion

Targeting CFTR dysfunction through small molecules, gene editing, and cell-based therapies represents a paradigm shift from symptom management to addressing genetic causes. Expanding access to innovative treatments across all patient subgroups may modify disease progression. While awaiting genetic cures, emerging strategies provide hope that CF outcomes can transition from early lethality to a chronic condition with an improved life expectancy and quality of life.
Intermediate type cystinosis with a novel CTNS variant in a child: a case report
Authors: Elamin Mugahid , Alzhrany Ghada , Mohamed Reem , Daw Wafa , Alabbasi Bashiar , Ahmed Muawia , Bakhiet Yassir , Aloufi Yomna , Aloufi Majed
Published: September 2024

Cystinosis is a rare lysosomal storage disorder caused by a variant in the CTNS gene that leads to the accumulation of cystine in the body’s tissues. It has been classified into three subtypes based on its clinical presentation: severe infantile nephropathic cystinosis, intermediate mild form, and ocular non-nephropathic adult form. We report a teenage girl who presented with end stage kidney disease as her first presentation and was found to have corneal cystine crystals upon ophthalmic evaluation. Genetic testing confirmed that she has a CTNS variant, a CTNS variant c.520A > C p.(Ser174Arg) never described in the literature previously. Full family genetic screening supported the diagnosis. She was started on oral and ocular cysteamine and maintained on peritoneal dialysis for a few months and eventually underwent a successful deceased donor kidney transplantation. These findings expand the spectrum of CTNS gene variants and highlight the potential of atypical and severe presentations of this variant during adolescence.
“Can you Hear me?” Change of technology commitment during the first two semesters under COVID-19
Authors: Puderbach Leonard , Petrak Alexandra , Wolff Fabian
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged universities to maintain teaching, leading to online classes becoming the standard teaching mode and accelerating digitalization. Learning from the influence of these developments on students’ technology commitment may hold valuable information for various stakeholders. The present study investigated the development of three facets of technology commitment in higher education during the first two semesters under the COVID-19 pandemic: technology acceptance, technology competence belief, and technology control belief. The sample consisted of N = 132 graduate students at one German university who filled out questionnaires at two measurement points in two waves. The change in all three facets of technology commitment over time was examined with latent change models. There was a significant increase in technology competence belief. This change was stronger for students in the second COVID-19 semester than those in the first COVID-19 semester. Participants’ age, sex, and the number of webinars attended during the semester of data collection had no significant effect on the change in the three facets of technology commitment. Overall, the present study provides new insights into the development of technology commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, proposes an explanatory approach for the change in technology commitment, and emphasizes the relevance of direct experience with technology in the development of technology competence belief at different skill levels. The results indicate that students can increase their level of technology competence belief, by engaging directly with new technology.
The Influence of the Benefit–Cost Analysis on Policy Evaluation in the European Union
Authors: Gogic Kristina
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this paper is to answer the research question: How may methods of Benefit–Cost Analysis (BCA) influence policy decision-makers? The new research is a continuation of the previous research, and it is updated with new data and new examples. As it is well-known by BCA experts and practitioners, BCA is a relatively simple and widely used technique for deciding whether to make a change. BCA is very important in political and governmental decisions. Governments are policy creators, and Governments are usually formed of politicians. How much do experts inside Governments influence the policymakers? Do politicians allow enough experts to influence policymaking? The research regarding the work of the Croatian Government’s Office for Legislation and its Unit for the system and coordination of the Assessment of the Effects of Regulations (Unit) showed that the analysis of that Unit was not very good in some very important laws. These laws were changed very often because in practice was seen that the application of some laws was not good, and had caused some problems for the citizens, caused legal uncertainty for them, and in some cases had caused a lot of damage.
Worlds and Eyeglasses: Cavendish’s Blazing World in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, The Black Dossier
Authors: Armstrong Chloe
Published: September 2024

I examine Alan Moore and Kevin O’Neill’s adaptation of Margaret Cavendish’s Blazing World in the comic series The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. I interpret philosophical aspects of Cavendish’s fictional landscape, including her vitalist materialism and naturalized talking animals, as they appear in series The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, rendered through 3-D images and corresponding 3-D glasses worn by readers. Through this world adaptation, Moore and O’Neill onboard themes of naturalness, experimentation, technology-aided perceptual processes, and travel to intersecting worlds to enhance The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen’s commentary on the formative influence of fiction on authors and audiences.
Ambivalences of Trans Recognition
Authors: Wong Jules
Published: September 2024

The need for gender recognition is widespread, even when hypervisibility and other effects of trans antagonism make that need dangerous for trans people. This reason partially accounts for why, in trans critique, recognition is a dirty word. As a political aim, and to some extent as a moral norm, trans critiques encourage dropping recognition. On the other hand, social philosophers often view recognition as a solution to misrecognition and take recognition to be a remedy for injustice. In my view, recognition should neither be dropped nor held as a foundational norm for trans emancipation. First, I present three ways trans recognition is ambivalent. Second, evaluating Axel Honneth's observations about the entwinement of recognition and domination, I argue that recognition is an ambivalent norm for trans critique and struggle. Third, I propose studying trans recognitive practices (rather than recognition in abstract) and I illuminate what might set trans/t4t recognition acts apart from their cis-grounded analogues, centering the roles of the body and space/place as resources of trans/t4t recognitive practices, and how such practices focus on the subject's change and becoming over their identification.
THE ROLE OF BATTERIES AND FUEL CELLS IN DECARBONISING THE UK ECONOMY
Authors: Pollock David Stephen
Published: September 2024

The prospects are considered of deploying batteries and fuel cells in order to reduce the carbon emissions from various modes of transport. It is proposed that the government has not done enough to advance these technologies and that Britain is lagging behind other countries. The adequacy of Britain’s future supplies of energy is called into question.
Blubber for Bibles: translating colonialism in Inuit missions, c. 1750–1850
Authors: Carey Hilary Mary
Published: September 2024

Between 1750 and 1850, at least twenty versions of the Greenlandic Bible were published through the efforts of Greenlandic catechists, Danish Lutherans, German Moravians, the Danish Bible Society and the British and Foreign Bible Society (BFBS). This article assesses the role of Greenlandic and other Inuit translators as they were engaged in the colonial project of devising a complete version of the scriptures in their own language. Using the relatively untapped correspondence of the BFBS, it considers how and why the status of Inuit translators changed over the course of the missionary translation project. In one response to the reception of new Bibles, Inuit people offered gifts of blubber to the BFBS to support translations for other mission communities. To understand the meaning of this exchange, this essay brings together the methodologies and perspectives of missionary linguistics. It uncovers the unique role played by Greenlandic and other Inuit translators and catechists, foregrounding their contribution to a successful national project, the creation of a national language for independent Greenland and the emergence of literate Christian communities. By reading along and against the grain of colonial archives, it seeks to recover something of the names and motivation of Inuit scripture translators.
Stability analysis and identification of high-yielding Amaranth accessions for varietal development under various agroecologies of Malawi
Authors: Nyasulu Mvuyeni , Zimba Sibongile , Maliro Moses , Kamanga Rowland Maganizo , Medison Rudoviko Galileya , Sefasi Abel
Published: September 2024

Amaranth, with its high genetic variability, holds promise for global food security, income generation and climate resilience. Developing stable, high-yielding genotypes is essential for sustainable production. In this study, stability analysis was conducted on five Amaranth accessions over two seasons at three Malawian sites. Significant trait variations, including grain yield, plant height and leaf characteristics, underscored the dynamic nature of Amaranth cultivation. Notably, LL-BH-04 consistently exhibited superior grain yield, while others showed variable performance, highlighting the importance of stability analysis. Employing the Eberhart and Russell model, stable accessions in leaf and grain yield were identified. Additionally, AMMI (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction) biplot analysis revealed genetic diversity and stability patterns, aiding resilient cultivar selection. Consequently, LL-BH-04 and PE-UP-BH-01, identified as stable genotypes, were recommended for release, thereby enhancing agricultural sustainability and food security. These findings emphasize the need for site-specific breeding evaluations for sustainable productivity and underscore the importance of selecting stable cultivars to address agricultural challenges. LL-BH-04 and PE-LO-BH-01 were proposed for release to boost Amaranth production in Malawi, serving as the foundation for tailored breeding efforts aimed at improving productivity and resilience. This study contributes valuable insights into the stability and performance of Amaranth cultivars, offering guidance for sustainable crop production and variety development strategies.
Genetic diversity and population structure of wild Salvia miltiorrhiza in China revealed by microsatellite markers and implication for conservation
Authors: Wang Xiaoguo , Yan Dongfeng , Quan Jine , Hu Sanning , Liang Hongyan , Yang Xitian
Published: September 2024

Salvia miltiorrhiza is an outcrossing and perennial herb native to China. Although well-known for its medicinal value, there is a lack of knowledge regarding its natural population genetics. Here, we used 12 microsatellite markers to investigated population genetic diversity and structure of 215 samples from populations naturally distributed in central eastern China. A moderate level of genetic diversity was detected probably due to the over-mining of its roots. The allelic richness (AR) ranged from 3.034 to 4.889 with an average of 3.891. Moreover, pairwise estimates of FST among the populations of S. miltiorrhiza varied from 0.036 to 0.312 and two clusters were obtained by STRUCTURE and discriminant analysis of principal components. It is likely that the genetic differentiation of these two clusters was formed during glacial periods. Our result provides insights into the conservation of this valuable medicinal plant.
Arterial stiffness is associated with new-onset chronic kidney	disease
Authors: Li Kangbo , Qi Qi , Li Xinyi , Tian Liying , Wang Liyan , Wu Shouling , Han Quanle
Published: September 2024

Summary: Background: A potential independent association between arterial stiffness (AS) and the development of new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD) has not been thoroughly examined. Patients and methods: A total of 6929 participants were collected from the Kailuan study. All participants were free of CKD at the baseline. The participants were divided into four groups based on their brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) values. Cox regression models were used to analyze the relationship between baPWV values and the risk of new-onset CKD. Results: Over the course of a 10.06-year follow-up period, a total of 962 cases of new-onset CKD were documented. Cox proportional hazards analyses showed that a higher baPWV quartile was linked to an increased risk of new-onset CKD. Conclusions: Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity has a strong correlation with the development of new-onset CKD. Therefore, baPWV can be considered an innovative indicator for predicting the occurrence of new-onset CKD.
Biomarkers Indicate Pliocene Uplift of the Maxian Mountains, Northeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Han Bingyan , Peng Tingjiang , Han Churun , Liu Zhichao , Li Xiaomiao , Ma Zhenhua , Feng Zhantao , Li Meng , Zhou Aifeng , Song Chunhui
Published: September 2024

Knowledge of Late Miocene‐Early Pliocene environmental change is critical for understanding the interactions among global cooling, regional tectonic activity and Asian climatic evolution. However, their relationships remain unclear, partly due to the scarcity of quantitative reconstructions of temperature and hydroclimatic conditions, which limits our understanding of the effect of topography on montane climatic evolution. Here, we quantitatively reconstructed the Late Miocene‐Early Pliocene temperature, hydroclimate, and pH of the Xiaoshuizi peneplain, northeastern Tibetan Plateau (NETP), based on glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers. Our results indicate that the Xiaoshuizi temperature was relatively high with large fluctuations during 6.2–4.6 Ma. The temperature then gradually decreased until 4.0 Ma, when this trend was interrupted by an intensive warming event. Additionally, the combined Ri/b and pH proxies revealed that the Xiaoshuizi region experienced a hydroclimatic transition from relatively wet to dry conditions after 4.0 Ma. Our integrated results show that the Xiaoshuizi climate became warm and dry during 4.0–3.6 Ma, in contrast to the global cooling trend and the occurrence of a humid climate on the eastern Chinese Loess Plateau and the North China Plain. We ascribe this anomalous change to a warm and dry climate during 4.0–3.6 Ma to a topographic Foehn effect triggered by surface uplift of the Maxian Mountains associated with extensive tectonic uplift of the NETP during the Middle Pliocene.
Extracellular vesicle-associated DNA: ten years since its discovery in human blood
Authors: Tsering Thupten , Nadeau Amélie , Wu Tad , Dickinson Kyle , Burnier Julia V.
Published: September 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players in intercellular communication, facilitating the transfer of crucial cargo between cells. Liquid biopsy, particularly through the isolation of EVs, has unveiled a rich source of potential biomarkers for health and disease, encompassing proteins and nucleic acids. A milestone in this exploration occurred a decade ago with the identification of extracellular vesicle-associated DNA (EV-DNA) in the bloodstream of a patient diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Subsequent years have witnessed substantial advancements, deepening our insights into the molecular intricacies of EV-DNA emission, detection, and analysis. Understanding the complexities surrounding the release of EV-DNA and addressing the challenges inherent in EV-DNA research are pivotal steps toward enhancing liquid biopsy-based strategies. These strategies, crucial for the detection and monitoring of various pathological conditions, particularly cancer, rely on a comprehensive understanding of why and how EV-DNA is released. In our review, we aim to provide a thorough summary of a decade’s worth of research on EV-DNA. We will delve into diverse mechanisms of EV-DNA emission, its potential as a biomarker, its functional capabilities, discordant findings in the field, and the hurdles hindering its clinical application. Looking ahead to the next decade, we envision that advancements in EV isolation and detection techniques, coupled with improved standardization and data sharing, will catalyze the development of novel strategies exploiting EV-DNA as both a source of biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Phosphorylation of tau at a single residue inhibits binding to the E3 ubiquitin ligase, CHIP
Authors: Nadel Cory M. , Pokhrel Saugat , Wucherer Kristin , Oehler Abby , Thwin Aye C. , Basu Koli , Callahan Matthew D. , Southworth Daniel R. , Mordes Daniel A. , Craik Charles S. , Gestwicki Jason E.
Published: September 2024

Microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT/tau) accumulates in a family of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In disease, tau is aberrantly modified by post-translational modifications (PTMs), including hyper-phosphorylation. However, it is often unclear which of these PTMs contribute to tau’s accumulation or what mechanisms might be involved. To explore these questions, we focus on a cleaved proteoform of tau (tauC3), which selectively accumulates in AD and was recently shown to be degraded by its direct binding to the E3 ubiquitin ligase, CHIP. Here, we find that phosphorylation of tauC3 at a single residue, pS416, is sufficient to weaken its interaction with CHIP. A co-crystal structure of CHIP bound to the C-terminus of tauC3 reveals the mechanism of this clash, allowing design of a mutation (CHIPD134A) that partially restores binding and turnover of pS416 tauC3. We confirm that, in our models, pS416 is produced by the known AD-associated kinase, MARK2/Par-1b, providing a potential link to disease. In further support of this idea, an antibody against pS416 co-localizes with tauC3 in degenerative neurons within the hippocampus of AD patients. Together, these studies suggest a molecular mechanism for how phosphorylation at a discrete site contributes to accumulation of a tau proteoform.
Role of grain-level chemo-mechanics in composite cathode degradation of solid-state lithium batteries
Authors: Liu Chuanlai , Roters Franz , Raabe Dierk
Published: September 2024

Solid-state Li-ion batteries, based on Ni-rich oxide cathodes and Li-metal anodes, can theoretically reach a high specific energy of 393 Wh kg−1 and hold promise for electrochemical storage. However, Li intercalation-induced dimensional changes can lead to crystal defect formation in these cathodes, and contact mechanics problems between cathode and solid electrolyte. Understanding the interplay between cathode microstructure, operating conditions, micromechanics of battery materials, and capacity decay remains a challenge. Here, we present a microstructure-sensitive chemo-mechanical model to study the impact of grain-level chemo-mechanics on the degradation of composite cathodes. We reveal that crystalline anisotropy, state-of-charge-dependent Li diffusion rates, and lattice dimension changes drive dislocation formation in cathodes and contact loss at the cathode/electrolyte interface. These dislocations induce large lattice strain and trigger oxygen loss and structural degradation preferentially near the surface area of cathode particles. Moreover, contact loss is caused by the micromechanics resulting from the crystalline anisotropy of cathodes and the mechanical properties of solid electrolytes, not just operating conditions. These findings highlight the significance of grain-level cathode microstructures in causing cracking, formation of crystal defects, and chemo-mechanical degradation of solid-state batteries.
Prebiotic chiral transfer from self-aminoacylating ribozymes may favor either handedness
Authors: Kenchel Josh , Vázquez-Salazar Alberto , Wells Reno , Brunton Krishna , Janzen Evan , Schultz Kyle M. , Liu Ziwei , Li Weiwei , Parker Eric T. , Dworkin Jason P. , Chen Irene A.
Published: September 2024

Modern life is essentially homochiral, containing D-sugars in nucleic acid backbones and L-amino acids in proteins. Since coded proteins are theorized to have developed from a prebiotic RNA World, the homochirality of L-amino acids observed in all known life presumably resulted from chiral transfer from a homochiral D-RNA World. This transfer would have been mediated by aminoacyl-RNAs defining the genetic code. Previous work on aminoacyl transfer using tRNA mimics has suggested that aminoacylation using D-RNA may be inherently biased toward reactivity with L-amino acids, implying a deterministic path from a D-RNA World to L-proteins. Using a model system of self-aminoacylating D-ribozymes and epimerizable activated amino acid analogs, we test the chiral selectivity of 15 ribozymes derived from an exhaustive search of sequence space. All of the ribozymes exhibit detectable selectivity, and a substantial fraction react preferentially to produce the D-enantiomer of the product. Furthermore, chiral preference is conserved within sequence families. These results are consistent with the transfer of chiral information from RNA to proteins but do not support an intrinsic bias of D-RNA for L-amino acids. Different aminoacylation structures result in different directions of chiral selectivity, such that L-proteins need not emerge from a D-RNA World.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of the morabine grasshopper Vandiemenella viatica19
Authors: Li Xuan , Jayaprasad Suvratha , Einarsdottir Elisabet , Cooper Steven J. B. , Suh Alexander , Kawakami Takeshi , Palacios-Gimenez Octavio Manuel
Published: September 2024

Morabine grasshoppers in the Vandiemenella viatica species group, which show karyotype diversity, have been studied for their ecological distribution and speciation in relation to their genetic and chromosomal diversity. They are good models for studying sex chromosome evolution as “old” and newly emerged sex chromosomes co-exist within the group. Here we present a reference genome for the viatica19 chromosomal race, that possesses the ancestral karyotype within the group. Using PacBio HiFi and Hi-C sequencing, we generated a chromosome-level assembly of 4.09 Gb in span, scaffold N50 of 429 Mb, and complete BUSCO score of 98.1%, containing 10 pseudo-chromosomes. We provide Illumina datasets of males and females, used to identify the X chromosome. The assembly contains 19,034 predicted protein-coding genes, and a total of 75.21% of repetitive DNA sequences. By leveraging HiFi reads, we mapped the genome-wide distribution of methylated bases (5mC and 6 mA). This comprehensive assembly offers a robust reference for morabine grasshoppers and supports further research into speciation and sex chromosome diversification within the group and its related species.
Oculomic stratification of COVID-19 patients’ intensive therapy unit admission status and mortality by retinal morphological findings
Authors: Courtie Ella , Taylor Matthew , Danks Dominic , Acharjee Animesh , Jackson Thomas , Logan Ann , Veenith Tonny , Blanch Richard J.
Published: September 2024

To investigate if retinal thickness has predictive utility in COVID-19 outcomes by evaluating the statistical association between retinal thickness using OCT and of COVID-19-related mortality. Secondary outcomes included associations between retinal thickness and length of stay (LoS) in hospital. In this retrospective cohort study, OCT scans from 230 COVID-19 patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ITU) were compared with age and gender-matched patients with pneumonia from before March 2020. Total retinal, GCL + IPL, and RNFL thicknesses were recorded, and analysed with systemic measures collected at the time of admission and mortality outcomes, using linear regression models, Pearson’s R correlation, and Principal Component Analysis. Retinal thickness was significantly associated with all-time mortality on follow up in the COVID-19 group (p = 0.015), but not 28-day mortality (p = 0.151). Retinal and GCL + IPL layer thicknesses were both significantly associated with LoS in hospital for COVID-19 patients (p = 0.006 for both), but not for patients with pneumonia (p = 0.706 and 0.989 respectively). RNFL thickness was not associated with LoS in either group (COVID-19 p = 0.097, pneumonia p = 0.692). Retinal thickness associated with LoS in hospital and long-term mortality in COVID-19 patients, suggesting that retinal structure could be a surrogate marker for frailty and predictor of disease severity in this group of patients, but not in patients with pneumonia from other causes.
The impact of ammonia on particle formation in the Asian Tropopause Aerosol Layer
Authors: Xenofontos Christos , Kohl Matthias , Ruhl Samuel , Almeida João , Beckmann Hannah M. , Caudillo-Plath Lucía , Ehrhart Sebastian , Höhler Kristina , Kaniyodical Sebastian Milin , Kong Weimeng , Kunkler Felix , Onnela Antti , Rato Pedro , Russell Douglas M. , Simon Mario , Stark Leander , Umo Nsikanabasi Silas , Unfer Gabriela R. , Yang Boxing , Yu Wenjuan , Zauner-Wieczorek Marcel , Zgheib Imad , Zheng Zhensen , Curtius Joachim , Donahue Neil M. , El Haddad Imad , Flagan Richard C. , Gordon Hamish , Harder Hartwig , He Xu-Cheng , Kirkby Jasper , Kulmala Markku , Möhler Ottmar , Pöhlker Mira L. , Schobesberger Siegfried , Volkamer Rainer , Wang Mingyi , Borrmann Stephan , Pozzer Andrea , Lelieveld Jos , Christoudias Theodoros
Published: September 2024

During summer, ammonia emissions in Southeast Asia influence air pollution and cloud formation. Convective transport by the South Asian monsoon carries these pollutant air masses into the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS), where they accumulate under anticyclonic flow conditions. This air mass accumulation is thought to contribute to particle formation and the development of the Asian Tropopause Aerosol Layer (ATAL). Despite the known influence of ammonia and particulate ammonium on air pollution, a comprehensive understanding of the ATAL is lacking. In this modelling study, the influence of ammonia on particle formation is assessed with emphasis on the ATAL. We use the EMAC chemistry-climate model, incorporating new particle formation parameterisations derived from experiments at the CERN CLOUD chamber. Our diurnal cycle analysis confirms that new particle formation mainly occurs during daylight, with a 10-fold enhancement in rate. This increase is prominent in the South Asian monsoon UTLS, where deep convection introduces high ammonia levels from the boundary layer, compared to a baseline scenario without ammonia. Our model simulations reveal that this ammonia-driven particle formation and growth contributes to an increase of up to 80% in cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) concentrations at cloud-forming heights in the South Asian monsoon region. We find that ammonia profoundly influences the aerosol mass and composition in the ATAL through particle growth, as indicated by an order of magnitude increase in nitrate levels linked to ammonia emissions. However, the effect of ammonia-driven new particle formation on aerosol mass in the ATAL is relatively small. Ammonia emissions enhance the regional aerosol optical depth (AOD) for shortwave solar radiation by up to 70%. We conclude that ammonia has a pronounced effect on the ATAL development, composition, the regional AOD, and CCN concentrations.
A comprehensive investigation of the biophysical approach for aptamer functionalized nanoparticles in cancer therapy: a review
Authors: Navaneeth Alanthatta Govindan , Karthikeyan Subramani
Published: September 2024

Aptamers stand out for their remarkable specificity and versatility, making them an invaluable tool in cancer therapy.
Hard carbon with an opened pore structure for enhanced sodium storage performance
Authors: You Shunzhang , Zhang Qiaobao , Liu Junxiang , Deng Qiang , Sun Zhefei , Cao Dandan , Liu Tongchao , Amine Khalil , Yang Chenghao
Published: September 2024

OP-HC shows a high specific capacity of 350.7 mA h g−1 with ultra-high ICE. These results are attributed to its opened pore and enlarged d002 interlayer spacing, which can enhance the reversibility of Na+ adsorption, intercalation and filling process.
Relationship of dietary natural folate and synthetic folic acid co-exposure patterns with biological aging: findings from NHANES 2003–2018
Authors: Zhang Jia , Wang Xuan-Yang , Yang Shuo , Xie Xun , Pan Si-Jia , Xu Xiao-Qing , Li Ying
Published: September 2024

Higher intake of dietary folate, especially natural folate, coupled with a lower consumption of folic acid supplements, was found to be associated with lower biological age indicators.
Fluorescent histidine-derived biodynamers as biocompatible and highly water-soluble copper(ii)-sensors
Authors: Zeroug-Metz Lena , Kamal Mohamed A. M. , Bassil Justine , Elamaldeniya Kalanika , Ryu Bo Hyun , Buhler Eric , Lee Sangeun
Published: September 2024

Cu(ii)-selective and sensitive, biocompatible histidine-derived biodynamers (HisBD) integrate DCC and imidazoles for rapid fluorescence-based Cu(ii) detection, enabling efficient and reversible ion-recognition under physiological conditions.
Controlling the photochromism of zirconium pyromellitic diimide-based metal–organic frameworks through coordinating solvents
Authors: Li Youcong , Dong Jiahao , Zhao Yue , Gao Lei , Gu Yu-Hao , Yuan Shuai
Published: September 2024

Coordinating solvent-controlled photochromism.
Exploring single-entity electrochemistry beyond conventional potential windows: mechanistic insights into hydrazine/hydrazinium ion oxidation
Authors: Kim Ki Jun , Han Yujin , Kwon Seong Jung
Published: September 2024

Single-entity electrochemistry (SEE) enables research into the electrochemical properties of nanoparticles (NPs) at the individual NP level.
Rationally designed hierarchical hollow CuS/CdIn2S4 heterostructure nanoboxes for boosted photoreduction of CO2
Authors: Hou Wentao , Xia Puyue , Zhuang Chen , Liu Qi , Cheng Tingting , Zheng Yubin , Zhu Yanjun , Wei Yiqing , Chi Haoqiang , Zhou Yong , Zou Zhigang
Published: September 2024

A double-shelled CuS/CdIn2S4 photocatalyst was rationally designed using CdIn2S4 sheets in situ grown upon exterior of hollow CuS nanocubes, which exhibits boosted CO yield, significantly improved CH4 selectivity and excellent catalytic stability.
Palladium-catalyzed hydroarylation of 1,3-diynes with arylboronic acids
Authors: Shen Hongtao , Chen Xiaoyu , Qiu Jianhua , Chen Mengqi , Zhang Bohai , Wu Zhiyong
Published: September 2024

Herein, we report the reaction of symmetrical 1,3-diynes and arylboronic acids, with Pd(OAc)2 as the catalyst and PCy3 as the ligand, affording functionalized enynes in good to excellent yields.
Effect of diammonium hydrogen phosphate coated with silica on flame retardancy of epoxy resin
Authors: Liu Chao , Wei Lixin , Ma Boyu , Zhang Yuanping , Jia Xinlei
Published: September 2024

Epoxy resin has become one of the most widely used polymers owing to their excellent comprehensive properties.
Different molecular recognition by three domains of the full-length GRB2 to SOS1 proline-rich motifs and EGFR phosphorylated sites
Authors: Tateno Keita , Ando Takami , Tabata Maako , Sugasawa Haruka , Hayashi Toshifumi , Yu Sangya , PM Sayeesh , Inomata Kohsuke , Mikawa Tsutomu , Ito Yutaka , Ikeya Teppei
Published: September 2024

The asymmetric physical properties of the two SH3 domains of GRB2, including dynamics and binding affinities, may contribute to the formation of liquid–liquid phase separation.
Navigation through high-dimensional chemical space: discovery of Ba5Y13[SiO4]8O8.5 and Ba3Y2[Si2O7]2
Authors: Gulay Nataliya L. , Zanella Marco , Robertson Craig M. , Ritchie Daniel , Sonni Manel , Wright Matthew A. , Newnham Jon A. , Hawkins Cara J. , Whitworth Jayne , Mali Bhupendra P. , Niu Hongjun , Dyer Matthew S. , Collins Christopher M. , Daniels Luke M. , Claridge John B. , Rosseinsky Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

Using a combination of experimental and computational tools, two compounds were discovered in the well-studied BaO–Y2O3–SiO2 phase field.
Flow and clogging of capillary droplets
Authors: Cheng Yuxuan , Lonial Benjamin F. , Sista Shivnag , Meer David J. , Hofert Anisa , Weeks Eric R. , Shattuck Mark D. , O'Hern Corey S.
Published: September 2024

We present the deformable particle model that recapitulates capillary droplet structure and dynamics during flows through constrictions. We then show that large droplet deformability causes slow flows and promotes droplet clogging in obstacle arrays.
Task-specific boronium ionic liquids as ashless lubricant additives
Authors: Malviya Novina , Yasin Farah Fazlina M. , Sateriale Maria Teresa , Coleman Fergal , Gunaratne H. Q. Nimal , Dolfi Andrea , Srinivasan Geetha , Swadźba-Kwaśny Małgorzata
Published: September 2024

New ionic liquids were designed as multifunctional lubricant additives, combining nitrogen-containing borocation for wear reduction, carboxylate anion for reduced friction, and alkyl chains tuned for base oil solubility.
A chemiluminescence immunosensor for biomarker detection based on boronic acid-modified magnetic composite microspheres
Authors: Wang Xiuli , He Leyi , Li Yaoxia , Guo Jia , Wang Changchun
Published: September 2024

A versatile and flexible immobilization technique based on the specific affinity interaction between boronic acid and cis-diol groups of antibodies for chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) was developed for efficient biomarker detection.
Synthesis of N-doped zeolite-templated carbons via depolymerized oligomer filling: applications in EDLC electrodes
Authors: Itoi Hiroyuki , Matsuoka Chika , Saeki Ginga , Iwata Hiroyuki , Iwamura Shinichiroh , Wakabayashi Keigo , Yoshii Takeharu , Nishihara Hirotomo , Ohzawa Yoshimi
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen-doped zeolite-templated carbons are synthesized from chitin and propylene as carbon and nitrogen sources and their EDLC performances are evaluated in an organic electrolyte.