bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urea-formaldehyde resin room temperature phosphorescent material with ultra-long afterglow and adjustable phosphorescence performance
Authors: Xu Wensheng , Wang Bowei , Liu Shuai , Fang Wangwang , Jia Qinglong , Liu Jiayi , Bo Changchang , Yan Xilong , Li Yang , Chen Ligong
Published: May 2024

Organic room-temperature phosphorescence materials have attracted extensive attention, but their development is limited by the stability and processibility. Herein, based on the on-line derivatization strategy, we report the urea-formaldehyde room-temperature phosphorescence materials which are constructed by polycondensation of aromatic diamines with urea and formaldehyde. Excitingly, urea-formaldehyde room-temperature phosphorescence materials achieve phosphor lifetime up to 3326 ms. There may be two ways to enhance phosphorescence performance, one is that the polycondensation of aromatic diamine with urea and formaldehyde promotes spin-orbit coupling, and another is that the imidazole derivatives derived from the condensation of aromatic o-diamine with formaldehyde maintains low levels of energy level difference and spin-orbit coupling, thus achieving ultra-long afterglow. Surprisingly, urea-formaldehyde room-temperature phosphorescence materials exhibit tunable phosphorescence emission in electrostatic field. Accordingly, 1,4-phenylenediamine, urea, and formaldehyde are copolymerized and self-assembled into phosphorescence microspheres with different electrostatic potential strengths. By mixing 1 wt% 1,4-phenylenediamine polycondensation microspheres with 1,4-phenylenediamine free microspheres, phosphor lifetime of the composite could be regulated from 27 ms to 123 ms. Moreover, vulcanization process enables precise shaping of urea-formaldehyde room-temperature phosphorescence materials. This work not only demonstrates that urea-formaldehyde room-temperature phosphorescence materials are promising candidates for organic phosphors, but also exhibits the phenomenon of electrostatically regulated phosphorescence.
Hybrid architectures for terahertz molecular polaritonics
Authors: Jaber Ahmed , Reitz Michael , Singh Avinash , Maleki Ali , Xin Yongbao , Sullivan Brian T. , Dolgaleva Ksenia , Boyd Robert W. , Genes Claudiu , Ménard Jean-Michel
Published: May 2024

Atoms and their different arrangements into molecules are nature’s building blocks. In a regime of strong coupling, matter hybridizes with light to modify physical and chemical properties, hence creating new building blocks that can be used for avant-garde technologies. However, this regime relies on the strong confinement of the optical field, which is technically challenging to achieve, especially at terahertz frequencies in the far-infrared region. Here we demonstrate several schemes of electromagnetic field confinement aimed at facilitating the collective coupling of a localized terahertz photonic mode to molecular vibrations. We observe an enhanced vacuum Rabi splitting of 200 GHz from a hybrid cavity architecture consisting of a plasmonic metasurface, coupled to glucose, and interfaced with a planar mirror. This enhanced light-matter interaction is found to emerge from the modified intracavity field of the cavity, leading to an enhanced zero-point electric field amplitude. Our study provides key insight into the design of polaritonic platforms with organic molecules to harvest the unique properties of hybrid light-matter states.
Enhancing deep learning predictive models with HAPPY (Hierarchically Abstracted rePeat unit of PolYmers) representation
Authors: Ahn Jihun , Irianti Gabriella Pasya , Choe Yeojin , Hur Su-Mi
Published: May 2024

We introduce HAPPY (Hierarchically Abstracted rePeat unit of PolYmers), a string representation for polymers, designed to efficiently encapsulate essential polymer structure features for property prediction. HAPPY assigns single constituent elements to groups of sub-structures and employs grammatically complete and independent connectors between chemical linkages. Using a limited number of datapoints, we trained neural networks utilizing both HAPPY and conventional SMILES encoding of repeated unit structures and compared their performance in predicting five polymer properties: dielectric constant, glass transition temperature, thermal conductivity, solubility, and density. The results showed that the HAPPY-based network could achieve higher prediction R-squared score and two-fold faster training times. We further tested the robustness and versatility of HAPPY-based network with an augmented training dataset. Additionally, we present topo-HAPPY (Topological HAPPY), an extension that incorporates topological details of the constituent connectivity, leading to improved solubility and glass transition temperature prediction R-squared score.
A unified dataset for pre-processed climate indicators weighted by gridded economic activity
Authors: Gortan Marco , Testa Lorenzo , Fagiolo Giorgio , Lamperti Francesco
Published: May 2024

Although high-resolution gridded climate variables are provided by multiple sources, the need for country and region-specific climate data weighted by indicators of economic activity is becoming increasingly common in environmental and economic research. We process available information from different climate data sources to provide spatially aggregated data with global coverage for both countries (GADM0 resolution) and regions (GADM1 resolution) and for a variety of climate indicators (total precipitations, average temperatures, average SPEI). We weigh gridded climate data by population density, night-time light intensity, cropland, and concurrent population count – all proxies of economic activity – before aggregation. Climate variables are measured daily, monthly, and annually, covering (depending on the data source) a time window from 1900 (at the earliest) to 2023. We pipeline all the preprocessing procedures in a unified framework, and we validate our data through a systematic comparison with those employed in leading climate impact studies.
Finite element graft stress for anteromedial portal, transtibial, and hybrid transtibial femoral drillings under anterior translation and medial rotation: an exploratory study
Authors: Yañez Roberto , Silvestre Rony , Roby Matias , Neira Alejandro , Azar Camilo , Madera Samuel , Ortiz-Bernardin Alejandro , Carpes Felipe P. , De la Fuente Carlos
Published: May 2024

Stress concentration on the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLr) for femoral drillings is crucial to understanding failures. Therefore, we described the graft stress for transtibial (TT), the anteromedial portal (AM), and hybrid transtibial (HTT) techniques during the anterior tibial translation and medial knee rotation in a finite element model. A healthy participant with a non-medical record of Anterior Cruciate Ligament rupture with regular sports practice underwent finite element analysis. We modeled TT, HTT, AM drillings, and the ACLr as hyperelastic isotropic material. The maximum Von Mises principal stresses and distributions were obtained from anterior tibial translation and medial rotation. During the anterior tibia translation, the HTT, TT, and AM drilling were 31.5 MPa, 34.6 Mpa, and 35.0 MPa, respectively. During the medial knee rotation, the AM, TT, and HTT drilling were 17.3 MPa, 20.3 Mpa, and 21.6 MPa, respectively. The stress was concentrated at the lateral aspect of ACLr,near the femoral tunnel for all techniques independent of the knee movement. Meanwhile, the AM tunnel concentrates the stress at the medial aspect of the ACLr body under medial rotation. The HTT better constrains the anterior tibia translation than AM and TT drillings, while AM does for medial knee rotation.
Characteristics of patients with myofascial pain syndrome of the low back
Authors: Tsai Pao-Feng , Edison Joseph L. , Wang Chih-Hsuan , Gramlich Michael W. , Manning Kailea Q. , Deshpande Gopikrishna , Bashir Adil , Sefton JoEllen
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study is to determine characteristics of patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) of the low back and the degree to which the low back pain in the patients examined can be attributed to MPS. Twenty-five subjects with myofascial trigger point(s) [MTrP(s)] on the low back participated in this cross-sectional study. The location, number, and type of selected MTrPs were identified by palpation and verified by ultrasound. Pain pressure threshold, physical function, and other self-reported outcomes were measured. Significant differences were found in Group 1 (Active), 2 (Latent), 3 (Atypical, no twitching but with spontaneous pain), and 4 (Atypical, no twitching and no spontaneous pain) of participants in the number of MTrPs, current pain, and worst pain in the past 24 h (p = .001–.01). There were interaction effects between spontaneous pain and twitching response on reports of physical function, current pain, and worst pain (p = .002–.04). Participants in Group 3 reported lower levels of physical function, and higher levels of current pain and worst pain compared to those in Group 4. Participants in Group 1 and 2 had similar levels of physical function, current pain, and worst pain. The number of MTrPs is most closely associated with the level of pain. Spontaneous pain report seems to be a decisive factor associated with poor physical function; however, twitching response is not.
Neurodevelopmental delay in children exposed to maternal SARS-CoV-2 in-utero
Authors: Fajardo-Martinez Viviana , Ferreira Fatima , Fuller Trevon , Cambou Mary Catherine , Kerin Tara , Paiola Sophia , Mok Thalia , Rao Rashmi , Mohole Jyodi , Paravastu Ramya , Zhang Dajie , Marschik Peter , Iyer Sai , Kesavan Kalpashri , Borges Lopes Maria da Conceição , Britto José Augusto A. , Moreira Maria Elisabeth , Brasil Patricia , Nielsen-Saines Karin
Published: May 2024

It is unclear if SARS CoV-2 infection during pregnancy is associated with adverse neurodevelopmental repercussions to infants. We assessed pediatric neurodevelopmental outcomes in children born to mothers with laboratory-confirmed SARS CoV-2 infection during pregnancy. Neurodevelopmental outcomes of in-utero exposed children were compared to that of pre-pandemic control children in Los Angeles (LA), CA, USA and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd edition (Bayley-III), the gold standard tool for evaluating neurodevelopment until 36 months of age and Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ-3), a frequently used screening instrument for evaluating neurodevelopment in this same age group were the assessment tools used. Developmental delay (DD) was defined as having a score < − 2 SD below the norm (< 70) in at least one of three Bayley-III domains, (cognitive, motor or language) or a score below the cut-off (dark zone) in at least one of five ASQ-3 domains (communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem solving, personal-social). Exposed children were born between April 2020 and December 2022 while control children were born between January 2016 to December 2019. Neurodevelopmental testing was performed in 300 children total: 172 COVID-19 exposed children between 5–30 months of age and 128 control children between 6–38 months of age. Bayley-III results demonstrated that 12 of 128 exposed children (9.4%) had DD versus 2 of 128 controls (1.6%), p = 0.0007. Eight of 44 additional exposed children had DD on ASQ-3 testing. Fully, 20 of 172 exposed children (11.6%) and 2 of 128 control children (1.6%), p = 0.0006 had DD. In Rio, 12% of exposed children versus 2.6% of controls, p = 0.02 had DD. In LA, 5.7% of exposed children versus 0 controls, p = 0.12 had DD. Severe/critical maternal COVID-19 predicted below average neurodevelopment in the exposed cohort (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1–6.4). Children exposed to antenatal COVID-19 have a tenfold higher frequency of DD as compared to controls and should be offered neurodevelopmental follow-up.
Multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli causing canine pyometra and urinary tract infections are genetically related but distinct from those causing prostatic abscesses
Authors: Sroithongkham Parinya , Nittayasut Naiyaphat , Yindee Jitrapa , Nimsamer Pattaraporn , Payungporn Sunchai , Pinpimai Komkiew , Ponglowhapan Suppawiwat , Chanchaithong Pattrarat
Published: May 2024

Despite extensive characterisation of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) causing urinary tract infections (UTIs), the genetic background of non-urinary extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) in companion animals remains inadequately understood. In this study, we characterised virulence traits of 104 E. coli isolated from canine pyometra (n = 61) and prostatic abscesses (PAs) (n = 38), and bloodstream infections (BSIs) in dogs (n = 2), and cats (n = 3). A stronger association with UPEC of pyometra strains in comparison to PA strains was revealed. Notably, 44 isolates exhibited resistance to third-generation cephalosporins and/or fluoroquinolones, 15 were extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-producers. Twelve multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, isolated from pyometra (n = 4), PAs (n = 5), and BSIs (n = 3), along with 7 previously characterised UPEC strains from dogs and cats, were sequenced. Genomic characteristics revealed that MDR E. coli associated with UTIs, pyometra, and BSIs belonged to international high-risk E. coli clones, including sequence type (ST) 38, ST131, ST617, ST648, and ST1193. However, PA strains belonged to distinct lineages, including ST12, ST44, ST457, ST744, and ST13037. The coreSNPs, cgMLST, and pan-genome illustrated intra-clonal variations within the same ST from different sources. The high-risk ST131 and ST1193 (phylogroup B2) contained high numbers of ExPEC virulence genes on pathogenicity islands, predominating in pyometra and UTI. Hybrid MDR/virulence IncF multi-replicon plasmids, containing aerobactin genes, were commonly found in non-B2 phylogroups from all sources. These findings offer genomic insights into non-urinary ExPEC, highlighting its potential for invasive infections in pets beyond UTIs, particularly with regards to high-risk global clones.
Type 1 diabetes human enteroid studies reveal major changes in the intestinal epithelial compartment
Authors: Bharadiya Vishwesh , Rong Yan , Zhang Zixin , Lin Ruxian , Guerrerio Anthony Lawrence , Tse C. Ming , Donowitz Mark , Singh Varsha
Published: May 2024

Lack of understanding of the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal (GI) complications in type 1 diabetes (T1D), including altered intestinal transcriptomes and protein expression represents a major gap in the management of these patients. Human enteroids have emerged as a physiologically relevant model of the intestinal epithelium but establishing enteroids from individuals with long-standing T1D has proven difficult. We successfully established duodenal enteroids using endoscopic biopsies from pediatric T1D patients and compared them with aged-matched enteroids from healthy subjects (HS) using bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and functional analyses of ion transport processes. RNA-seq analysis showed significant differences in genes and pathways associated with cell differentiation and proliferation, cell fate commitment, and brush border membrane. Further validation of these results showed higher expression of enteroendocrine cells, and the proliferating cell marker Ki-67, significantly lower expression of NHE3, lower epithelial barrier integrity, and higher fluid secretion in response to cAMP and elevated calcium in T1D enteroids. Enteroids established from pediatric T1D duodenum identify characteristics of an abnormal intestinal epithelium and are distinct from HS. Our data supports the use of pediatric enteroids as an ex-vivo model to advance studies of GI complications and drug discovery in T1D patients.
Treatment outcomes and adherence to treatment in patients with immune thrombocytopenia in two Ethiopian teaching hospitals: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Beyene Dessale Abate , Sisay Eskinder Ayalew , Fentie Atalay Mulu , Gebremedhin Amha
Published: May 2024

The treatment of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is challenging and treatment outcomes depend on numerous unknown and patient-specific factors. Corticosteroids are the cornerstone of ITP treatment, but they are associated with many side effects. In this retrospective cohort study, treatment outcomes and treatment adherence in patients with ITP were investigated in 214 ITP patients from November 15, 2022 to March 15, 2023. Multinomial regression analysis models were used to identify predictive factors for treatment outcomes. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Most study participants were female 161 (75.5%), and the majority 172 (80.4%) of them were taking prednisolone only. In terms of treatment adherence, 178 (83.2%) of the study participants adhered well to their ITP medications. The complete response rate at 3 months was 139 (65.0%). Predictive factors for partial response were increased negative impact of ITP on health-related quality of life (AOR = 1.221, 95% CI 1.096–1.360), being treated at Tikur Abessa Sepcialazed Hospital (AOR = 0.431, 95% CI 0.197–0.941) and the presence of heavy menstrual bleeding (AOR = 2.255, 95% CI 0.925–5.497) compared to patients with complete response. Hepatitis B virus-infected ITP patients (AOR = 0.052, 95% CI 0.004–0.621) were also a predictive factor for no response compared to complete response.
miRNA-206-3p alleviates LPS-induced acute lung injury via inhibiting inflammation and pyroptosis through modulating TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway
Authors: Chen Mengchi , Zhang Jingfeng , Huang Hongyuan , Wang Zichen , Gao Yong , Liu Jianghua
Published: May 2024

Acute lung injury (ALI) is life-threatening. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are often abnormally expressed in inflammatory diseases and are closely associated with ALI. This study investigates whether miRNA-206-3p attenuates pyroptosis in ALI and elucidates the underlying molecular mechanisms. ALI mouse and cell models were established through lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment for 24 h. Subsequently, the models were evaluated based on ultrasonography, the lung tissue wet/dry (W/D) ratio, pathological section assessment, electron microscopy, and western blotting. Pyroptosis in RAW264.7 cells was then assessed via electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. Additionally, the regulatory relationship between miRNA-206-3p and the Toll-like receptor (TLR)4/nuclear factor (NF)-κB/Nod-like receptor protein-3 (NLRP3) pathway was verified. Finally, luciferase reporter gene and RNA pull-down assays were used to verify the targeting relationship between miRNA-206-3p and TLR4. miRNA206-3p levels are significantly decreased in the LPS-induced ALI model. Overexpression of miRNA-206-3p improves ALI, manifested as improved lung ultrasound, improved pathological changes of lung tissue, reduced W/D ratio of lung tissue, release of inflammatory factors in lung tissue, and reduced pyroptosis. Furthermore, overexpression of miRNA-206-3p contributed to reversing the ALI-promoting effect of LPS by hindering TLR4, myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), NF-κB, and NLRP3 expression. In fact, miRNA-206-3p binds directly to TLR4. In conclusion, miRNA-206-3p alleviates LPS-induced ALI by inhibiting inflammation and pyroptosis via TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway modulation.
COVID-19 mortality prediction in Hungarian ICU settings implementing random forest algorithm
Authors: Hamar Ágoston , Mohammed Daryan , Váradi Alex , Herczeg Róbert , Balázsfalvi Norbert , Fülesdi Béla , László István , Gömöri Lídia , Gergely Péter Attila , Kovacs Gabor Laszlo , Jáksó Krisztián , Gombos Katalin
Published: May 2024

The emergence of newer SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) profoundly changed the ICU demography; this shift in the virus’s genotype and its correlation to lethality in the ICUs is still not fully investigated. We aimed to survey ICU patients’ clinical and laboratory parameters in correlation with SARS-CoV-2 variant genotypes to lethality. 503 COVID-19 ICU patients were included in our study beginning in January 2021 through November 2022 in Hungary. Furthermore, we implemented random forest (RF) as a potential predictor regarding SARS-CoV-2 lethality among 649 ICU patients in two ICU centers. Survival analysis and comparison of hypertension (HT), diabetes mellitus (DM), and vaccination effects were conducted. Logistic regression identified DM as a significant mortality risk factor (OR: 1.55, 95% CI 1.06–2.29, p = 0.025), while HT showed marginal significance. Additionally, vaccination demonstrated protection against mortality (p = 0.028). RF detected lethality with 81.42% accuracy (95% CI 73.01–88.11%, [AUC]: 91.6%), key predictors being PaO2/FiO2 ratio, lymphocyte count, and chest Computed Tomography Severity Score (CTSS). Although a smaller number of patients require ICU treatment among Omicron cases, the likelihood of survival has not proportionately increased for those who are admitted to the ICU. In conclusion, our RF model supports more effective clinical decision-making among ICU COVID-19 patients.
Freeform generative design of complex functional structures
Authors: Pereira Gerald G. , Howard David , Lahur Paulus , Breedon Michael , Kilby Phil , Hornung Christian H.
Published: May 2024

Generative machine learning is poised to revolutionise a range of domains where rational design has long been the de facto approach: where design is practically a time consuming and frustrating process guided by heuristics and intuition. In this article we focus on the domain of flow chemistry, which is an ideal candidate for generative design approaches. We demonstrate a generative machine learning framework that optimises diverse, bespoke reactor elements for flow chemistry applications, combining evolutionary algorithms and a scalable fluid dynamics solver for in silico performance assessment. Experimental verification confirms the discovery of never-before-seen bespoke mixers whose performance exceeds the state of the art by 45%. These findings highlight the power of autonomous generative design to improve the operational performance of complex functional structures, with potential wide-ranging industrial applications.
Ganglioside SSEA-4 in Ewing sarcoma marks a tumor cell population with aggressive features and is a potential cell-surface immune target
Authors: Jamitzky Silke , Altvater Bianca , Krekeler Carolin , Hoen Laura , Brandes Caroline , Ebbinghaus Julia , Richter Lisa , Kosel Lisa , Ochs Laurin , Farwick Nicole , Urban Katja , Kluge Lena , Bücker Lara , Görlich Dennis , Johnston Ian C. D. , Pfeifer Rita , Hartmann Wolfgang , Rossig Claudia , Kailayangiri Sareetha
Published: May 2024

Carbohydrate markers of immature cells during prenatal human development can be aberrantly expressed in cancers and deserve evaluation as immune targets. A candidate target in Ewing sarcoma is the globo-series ganglioside stage-specific embryonic antigen-4 (SSEA-4). We detected SSEA-4 expression on the cell surface of all of 14 EwS cell lines and in 21 of 31 (68%) primary EwS tumor biopsies. Among paired subpopulations of tumor cells with low versus high SSEA-4 expression, SSEA-4high expression was significantly and consistently associated with functional characteristics of tumor aggressiveness, including higher cell proliferation, colony formation, chemoresistance and propensity to migrate. SSEA-4low versus SSEA-4high expression was not related to expression levels of the EWSR1-FLI1 fusion transcript or markers of epithelial/mesenchymal plasticity. SSEA-4low cells selected from bulk populations regained higher SSEA-4 expression in vitro and during in vivo tumor growth in a murine xenograft model. T cells engineered to express SSEA-4-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) specifically interacted with SSEA-4 positive EwS cells and exerted effective antigen-specific tumor cell lysis in vitro. In conclusion, with its stable expression and functional significance in EwS, SSEA-4 is an attractive therapeutic immune target in this cancer that deserves further evaluation for clinical translation.
Fluorescence tracking demonstrates T cell recirculation is transiently impaired by radiation therapy to the tumor
Authors: Kramer Gwen , Blair Tiffany , Bambina Shelly , Kaur Aanchal Preet , Alice Alejandro , Baird Jason , Friedman David , Dowdell Alexa K. , Tomura Michio , Grassberger Clemens , Piening Brian D. , Crittenden Marka R. , Gough Michael J.
Published: May 2024

T cells recirculate through tissues and lymphatic organs to scan for their cognate antigen. Radiation therapy provides site-specific cytotoxicity to kill cancer cells but also has the potential to eliminate the tumor-specific T cells in field. To dynamically study the effect of radiation on CD8 T cell recirculation, we used the Kaede mouse model to photoconvert tumor-infiltrating cells and monitor their movement out of the field of radiation. We demonstrate that radiation results in loss of CD8 T cell recirculation from the tumor to the lymph node and to distant sites. Using scRNASeq, we see decreased proliferating CD8 T cells in the tumor following radiation therapy resulting in a proportional enrichment in exhausted phenotypes. By contrast, 5 days following radiation increased recirculation of T cells from the tumor to the tumor draining lymph node corresponds with increased immunosurveillance of the treated tumor. These data demonstrate that tumor radiation therapy transiently impairs systemic T cell recirculation from the treatment site to the draining lymph node and distant untreated tumors. This may inform timing therapies to improve systemic T cell-mediated tumor immunity.
A proteomics approach to isolating neuropilin-dependent α5 integrin trafficking pathways: neuropilin 1 and 2 co-traffic α5 integrin through endosomal p120RasGAP to promote polarised fibronectin fibrillogenesis in endothelial cells
Authors: Benwell Christopher J. , Johnson Robert T. , Taylor James A. G. E. , Lambert Jordi , Robinson Stephen D.
Published: May 2024

Integrin trafficking to and from membrane adhesions is a crucial mechanism that dictates many aspects of a cell’s behaviour, including motility, polarisation, and invasion. In endothelial cells (ECs), the intracellular traffic of α5 integrin is regulated by both neuropilin 1 (NRP1) and neuropilin 2 (NRP2), yet the redundancies in function between these co-receptors remain unclear. Moreover, the endocytic complexes that participate in NRP-directed traffic remain poorly annotated. Here we identify an important role for the GTPase-activating protein p120RasGAP in ECs, promoting the recycling of α5 integrin from early endosomes. Mechanistically, p120RasGAP enables transit of endocytosed α5 integrin-NRP1-NRP2 complexes to Rab11+ recycling endosomes, promoting cell polarisation and fibronectin (FN) fibrillogenesis. Silencing of both NRP receptors, or p120RasGAP, resulted in the accumulation of α5 integrin in early endosomes, a loss of α5 integrin from surface adhesions, and attenuated EC polarisation. Endothelial-specific deletion of both NRP1 and NRP2 in the postnatal retina recapitulated our in vitro findings, severely impairing FN fibrillogenesis and polarised sprouting. Our data assign an essential role for p120RasGAP during integrin traffic in ECs and support a hypothesis that NRP receptors co-traffic internalised cargoes. Importantly, we utilise comparative proteomics analyses to isolate a comprehensive map of NRP1-dependent and NRP2-dependent α5 integrin interactions in ECs.
Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma interactome with 417 novel protein–protein interactions
Authors: Karunakaran Kalyani B. , Ganapathiraju Madhavi K.
Published: May 2024

Background

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) is an aggressive cancer affecting the abdominal peritoneal lining and intra-abdominal organs, with a median survival of ~2.5 years.

Methods

We constructed the protein interactome of 59 MPeM-associated genes with previously known protein-protein interactions (PPIs) as well as novel PPIs predicted using our previously developed HiPPIP computational model and analysed it for transcriptomic and functional associations and for repurposable drugs.

Results

The MPeM interactome had over 400 computationally predicted PPIs and 4700 known PPIs. Transcriptomic evidence validated 75.6% of the genes in the interactome and 65% of the novel interactors. Some genes had tissue-specific expression in extramedullary hematopoietic sites and the expression of some genes could be correlated with unfavourable prognoses in various cancers. 39 out of 152 drugs that target the proteins in the interactome were identified as potentially repurposable for MPeM, with 29 having evidence from prior clinical trials, animal models or cell lines for effectiveness against peritoneal and pleural mesothelioma and primary peritoneal cancer. Functional modules related to chromosomal segregation, transcriptional dysregulation, IL-6 production and hematopoiesis were identified from the interactome. The MPeM interactome overlapped significantly with the malignant pleural mesothelioma interactome, revealing shared molecular pathways.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the utility of the interactome in uncovering biological associations and in generating clinically translatable results.
Opportunities and risks of large language models in psychiatry
Authors: Obradovich Nick , Khalsa Sahib S. , Khan Waqas U. , Suh Jina , Perlis Roy H. , Ajilore Olusola , Paulus Martin P.
Published: May 2024

The integration of large language models (LLMs) into mental healthcare and research heralds a potentially transformative shift, one offering enhanced access to care, efficient data collection, and innovative therapeutic tools. This paper reviews the development, function, and burgeoning use of LLMs in psychiatry, highlighting their potential to enhance mental healthcare through improved diagnostic accuracy, personalized care, and streamlined administrative processes. It is also acknowledged that LLMs introduce challenges related to computational demands, potential for misinterpretation, and ethical concerns, necessitating the development of pragmatic frameworks to ensure their safe deployment. We explore both the promise of LLMs in enriching psychiatric care and research through examples such as predictive analytics and therapy chatbots and risks including labor substitution, privacy concerns, and the necessity for responsible AI practices. We conclude by advocating for processes to develop responsible guardrails, including red-teaming, multi-stakeholder-oriented safety, and ethical guidelines/frameworks, to mitigate risks and harness the full potential of LLMs for advancing mental health.
Microkinetic simulations of ketene conversion to olefins in H-SAPO-34 zeolite for bifunctional catalysis
Authors: Ke Jun , Wang Yang-Dong , Wang Chuan-Ming , Xie Zai-Ku
Published: May 2024

Distribution and evolution preference of the olefinic hydrocarbon pool in H-SAPO-34 for ketene conversion were addressed from microkinetic simulations. The similarities and differences between ketene and methanol conversions were compared.
Advances in the composition, efficacy, and mimicking of human milk phospholipids
Authors: Wang Yuru , Liu Qian , Liu Yan , Qiao Weicang , Zhao Junying , Cao Huiru , Liu Yan , Chen Lijun
Published: May 2024

Phospholipids are the essential components of human milk. To provide a more scientific feeding method for infants, infant formulas should be formulated to close the phospholipids of human milk by adjusting raw and auxiliary ingredients.
Efficacy and safety of galacto-oligosaccharide in the treatment of functional constipation: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Lee Jae-Hwan , Kim Geun-Bae , Han Kisoo , Jung Eun-Jin , Suh Hyung Joo , Jo Kyungae
Published: May 2024

The efficacy and safety of galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) in treating functional constipation were evaluated in a four-week randomized, double-blind clinical trial on 63 patients who met Rome IV criteria (34 GOS, 29 placebo group).
Surface engineering assisted CoNiP nanosheet arrays for electrochemical overall water splitting
Authors: Zhang Linfei , Wei Ruilong , Liu Chenyi , He Ningfa , He Xinru , Jiang Yuhuan , Guo Changshuai , Hu Yong , Zhong Shengliang
Published: May 2024

Electrochemical overall water splitting is a green, environmentally friendly, and efficient hydrogen production method that involves two half-reactions: the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
A carbonyl-decorated two-dimensional polymer as a charge-trapping layer for non-volatile memory storage devices with a high endurance and wide memory window
Authors: Al-Ajeil Ruba , Mohammed Abdul Khayum , Pal Pratibha , Addicoat Matthew A. , Nair Surabhi Suresh , Kumar Dayanand , Syed Abdul Momin , Rezk Ayman , Singh Nirpendra , Nayfeh Ammar , El-Atab Nazek , Shetty Dinesh
Published: May 2024

Novel carbonyl-decorated 2D-polymer synthesized via mechanomixing exhibits high-density packing of charge trapping sites and shows a wide memory window in a nonvolatile capacitive memory device.
Synthesis of a new potassium-substituted lead fluorapatite and its structural characterization
Authors: Hamza Mariam , Hamdi Besma , Ben Ahmed Ali , Capitelli Francesco , El Feki Hafed
Published: May 2024

Prismatic crystals of partially potassium-substituted lead fluorapatite Pb5.09Ca3.78K1.13(PO4)6F0.87 were grown through a solid-state reaction.
In situ fabrication of Fe3C nanoparticles and porous-carbon composites as high-performance electromagnetic wave absorber
Authors: Yu Wentao , Lin Jiahui , Cao Yan , Fang Jiyong , Wang Ziqing , Huang Jintao , Min Yonggang
Published: May 2024

This study successfully utilized liquid–liquid phase separation to build a porous structure and synthesize composite absorbers based on polyimide-based porous carbon/Fe3C nanoparticles and porous carbon/FeCo alloy nanoparticles.
Investigation of half metallic properties of Tl2Mo(Cl/Br)6 double perovskites for spintronic devices
Authors: Yasir M. Ammar , Mustafa Ghulam M. , Younas Bisma , Noor N. A. , Ali Mehdi , Nazir Sadia , Dewidar Ahmed Z. , Elansary Hosam O.
Published: May 2024

The manipulation of electronic device characteristics through electron spin represents a burgeoning frontier in technological advancement.
Sustainable methods for the carboxymethylation and methylation of ursolic acid with dimethyl carbonate under mild and acidic conditions
Authors: Kadsanit Nuttapong , Worsawat Pattamabhorn , Sakonsinsiri Chadamas , McElroy Con R. , Macquarrie Duncan , Noppawan Pakin , Hunt Andrew J.
Published: May 2024

Carboxymethylation and methylation of ursolic and corosolic acid have been achieved with dimethyl carbonate under sustainable, mild and acidic conditions. The resulting derivatives show potential as novel pharmaceutical intermediates.
Thermal-insulating ceramic fiber aerogels reinforced by fusing knots of overlapping fibers for superelasticity and high compression resistance
Authors: Meng Xiaolin , Liu Cui , Zhang Jixiang , Guo Wei , Li Nian , Chen Yang , Xu Huan , Xi Min , Zhang Shudong , Wang Zhenyang
Published: May 2024

A ceramic SiZrOC fiber aerogel reinforced by fusing knots of overlapping fibers exhibits superelasticity, high compression resistance and a very high-temperature resistance limit.
Self-supported Ni/Ni3N1−x heterostructures with abundant nitrogen vacancies as efficient electrocatalysts for ethylene glycol oxidation
Authors: Zhou Chenyu , Jia Chenghao , Xiang Xuepeng , Wang Luolan , Wu Shiying , Zhang Nian , Zhao Shijun , Yang Gaixiu , Chen Yan
Published: May 2024

Self-supported Ni/Ni3N1−x heterostructures with abundant nitrogen vacancies as efficient electrocatalysts for ethylene glycol oxidation.
Temperature-stable Li4Ti3O8 composite microwave dielectric ceramics and their applications in dielectric resonator antennas
Authors: Ma Linzhao , Zhang Chao , Zhao Zitong , Tian Guo , Li Gaosheng , Li Hao
Published: May 2024

Li4Ti3O8 ceramics with low loss and high stability were prepared using the solid-phase method. The prepared DRAs have a high radiation efficiency (>90%) and a gain of 4.5 dBi, meeting the requirements for 5G/6G communication applications.
Infiltration issues in printed mesoporous carbon perovskite solar cells: a troubleshooting guide
Authors: Worsley C. A. , Dunlop T. , Potts S. J. , Bolton R. , Jewell E. , Watson T. M.
Published: May 2024

Characteristic CPSC infiltration defects are identified and linked to specific manufacturing issues. Preventative solutions are presented, to produce a troubleshooting reference resource for tackling poor infiltration at multiple scales.
Giant enhancement of anti-quenching upconversion luminescence in Sc2W3O12:Er3+/Yb3+ phosphors for temperature sensing
Authors: Wang Xufang , Zhang Ping , Xiao Xianglong , Lei Ruoshan , Huang Lihui , Xu Shiqing , Zhao Shilong , Wang Xiuli
Published: May 2024

Giant enhancement of anti-quenching upconversion luminescence is achieved in the Sc2W3O12:Er3+/Yb3+ phosphors by (KMg)3+ impurity doping, and the phosphors are used for the construction of an all-fiber temperature sensing system.
Impact of organic manures on the growth and yield of cauliflower
Authors: Bopche Vaibhav , chanu Khuraijam Panthoi , Agrawal Shubhi , sharma Abha
Published: May 2024

Organic manures are made from natural materials such as plant leftovers, manure, and compost. They provide a comprehensive method of enhancing soil. Adding organic matter improves the structure of the soil, encourages microbial activity and releases nutrients gradually. Organic farming produces legumebased cropping systems with decreased carbon and nitrogen losses. This indicates improved soil health, which is essential for healthy cauliflower development. In the Rabi season of 2023–2024, the current experiment, “Impact of organic manures on the growth and yield of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis),” was carried out at the Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture (AIOA), Amity University, Sec.126, Noida (U.P.), India. The sandy loam soil in the experimental field has a pH of 8.2, making it rather alkaline in nature. Several nutrients are applied during the trial, including poultry manure, vermicompost, farm yard manure, and azotobacter. The experimental field’s structure was established using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Suggested dosage for vermicompost (T2), poultry manure (T3), farm yard manure (FYM) (T1), poultry manure + azotobacter (T4), vermicompost + azotobacter (T5), and control (T6). Findings showed that, in comparison to all other treatments, the treatment of [vermicompost + azotobacter (T4)] produced the highest plant height (36.37 cm), number of leaves (21.00), leaf area (529.42 cm2), curd diameter (19.22 cm), curd weight (1.30 kg), yield per plot (11.50 kg/plot), and total yield (16.43 t/ha).
Enhancing germination percentage and seed vigor in horticultural Crops through biopriming techniques
Authors: Rashi  , Kaushik Nutan
Published: May 2024

Seed biopriming induces a physiological condition that promotes germination and uniform seedling emergence. An investigation is carried out on different seeds such as carrot (Daucus carota subsp. Sativus), onion (Allium cepa L.), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea), radish, (Raphanus sativus), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), spinach (Spinacia oleracea), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), and pea (Pisum sativum) to standardise bio-priming with Bacillus siamensis strain NKIT-9 to improve seed germination and seedling vigor index. To optimise the concentration of bio-priming seedlings were bioprimed overnight with Bacillus siamensis strain (NKIT-9) at varied concentrations (0.1mg/ml, 10µg/ml, 0.1µg/ml, and 10ng/ml). Bio-priming with Bacillus siamensis strain NKIT-9 gave highest values of germination percentage and seedling vigor index of carrot (at 0.1mg/ml), onion (at 0.1µg/ml ), cauliflower at 0.1mg/ml, 10µg/ml, and 0.1µg/ml), radish (at0.1mg/ml and 0.1µg/ml), tomato (at 0.1mg/ml), spinach (at 10ng/ml ), fenugreek (at 10ng/ml) and pea (a10ng/ml ) as compared with control. carrot, onion, cauliflower, radish, tomato, spinach, fenugreek, and pea exhibited higher germination percentages (60%, 100%, 100%, 100%, 80%, 90%, 100%, and 60% respectively) and seedling vigor indexes (148 ,720, 910, 880, 525, 580, 990, and 1018 respectively) when compared with control. Therefore, bio-priming with these concentrations is best suited for improving germination rate and seedling vigor of seeds.
First Report of Halopithys incurva (Rhodomelaceae, Rhodophyta) from the Marchica Lagoon of Nador (North-Est Morocco, Mediterranean)
Authors: Aknaf Asmae , Rahhou Abderrahmane , Nouayti Nordine , Ahsan Umair
Published: May 2024

The Nador-Marchica lagoon is located on the northeastern Moroccan coast between the Cap of the Three Fourches and the Cape of Water. It is a site of biological and ecological interest (SIBE) and is classified as a Ramsar site. It is part of the largest coastal wetland complex in the Moroccan Mediterranean with an estimated surface area of 115 km2. The species Halopithys incurva (Hudson) Batters (Rhodomelaceae) was found and reported for the first time in the Marchica Lagoon Northeast Mediterranean-Morocco region (February 2021). It was collected from the centre of the lagoon and was grown with other seaweeds (Gracilaria dura and Alsidium corallinum) (Rhodophyta). The morphology, habitat, and water quality are presented and discussed in the present study. An analysis of the description, morphology and images of the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of this seaweed is provided. This new seaweed indicates that the biodiversity is probably richer than generally thought in this lagoon.
Hydrogeochemical processes and nitrate contamination of shallow groundwater in the Gareb-Bouareg region, northeastern Morocco
Authors: Chamrar Abdelkarim , Oujidi Mostafa , El Haddar Abdelilah , Arabi Mourad , Jilali Abdelhakim , El Khoudri Mouad
Published: May 2024

In semiarid regions, groundwater faces considerable challenges due to both natural and human-induced contaminants, including nitrate contamination. These issues impact the availability of groundwater, a vital resource. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the sources and mechanisms contributing to salinization and nitrate contamination. In this study, we examined the hydrogeochemical characteristics of shallow groundwater in the Gareb-Bouareg region, northeast Morocco. The aim was to determine and understand the key processes that govern its chemical composition and assess nitrate contamination. A total of 50 groundwater samples were collected from existing wells and analysed for major cation and anion concentrations. The results showed that the dissolution of evaporite minerals, cation exchange and evaporation are the predominant processes of groundwater mineralization. In 72% of the samples, nitrate concentrations surpassed the anthropogenic origin threshold value of 10 mg/L, while 16% of the samples exceeded the drinking water standard of 50 mg/L. The highest values were found in the rural and urban areas, at 122 mg/L and 84.24 mg/L, respectively. Nitrate levels and the depth to the water table reveal the impacts of surface contamination sources. The spatial distribution and interrelationship between nitrate and other parameters suggest possible distinct origins of dissolved nitrates associated with various anthropogenic activities.
Evaluation of the adaptation of groundwater quality in the Ketama Al-Hoceima region (Morocco) to agricultural irrigation
Authors: Elbarghmi Rachida , Lamhamdi Abdellatif , Ghalit Mohammad , Abourrich Mostapha , El khalki Soukaina
Published: May 2024

In the Ketama region, irrigation used to depend on rainwater and surface water. However, with drought and water shortages affecting the region, farmers are increasingly relying on groundwater. “Recognizing the critical importance of water quality in irrigation, a total of 164 water samples were collected from various points and subjected to physicochemical analysis. The assessment of groundwater suitability for irrigation encompassed several parameters, including chloride, electrical conductivity (EC), percentage of soluble sodium (% Na), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), residual sodium carbonate (RCS), magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR), permeability index (PI), Kelley ratio (KR), potential salinity (PS), synthetic harmfulness coefficient (K), irrigation coefficient (Ka), chloro-alkaline indices (CAI-1 and CAI-2), and irrigation water quality index (IWQI).”. Results showed that 43.29% (EC), 82% (Na), 68.40% (SAR), and 68.29% (Ka) of groundwater samples were excellent and that 77% (PI) of samples were suitable for irrigation. The IWQI revealed that 21.96% of samples are considered to have high restrictions. This study aims to provide crucial information on irrigation water quality in the region, providing valuable data for various stakeholders to make informed decisions on agricultural practices and the sustainable use of water resources, particularly in the face of challenges posed by climate change and water shortages.
Law and mitigation: A comparative analysis of Moroccan and Indian Legal systems
Authors: Prabhu Shakti , Martin Natasha
Published: May 2024

There has been international recognition of the burgeoning climate change crisis, with numerous conventions attempting to foster collaboration and cooperation between countries. However, it has been established that there exists a discrepancy, with certain countries historically polluting more, while other countries bear the brunt of these erratic changes with specific categories of people having to bear even more. Through this there arises a requirement to analyze the efforts countries make to alleviate climate change, especially their interaction with other nations in terms of forming alliances or adopting similar measures. The utopian ideation behind law is to provide a voice for the voiceless and to safeguard the interests of the masses. Though corruption and sheer inefficiency has riddled this powerful tool with deficits. The current rate of environmental degradation demarcates the failure of the law, as marginalized communities continue to face mass discrimination and struggle to mobilize to courts. It is important to understand the bodies involved in governance and the unique manner in which an issue gets addressed through the system. Only through this understanding can gaps be bridged and functional legislation enacted. Moreover, as there is a shift in global politics and a need to deconstruct Western hegemony, it is crucial to understand the Global South’s perspectives in dealing with the contention of climate change. In particular, countries like India and Morocco that are distinct but share certain common intricacies as developing countries with torrid pasts. This paper aspires to explore and examine Indian and Moroccan environmental acts or laws towards protection in juxtaposition to the surmounting levels of pollution.
The influence of the environment on the diversity of Euglena species and their abundance in the lagoon of Nador-Morocco
Authors: Riouchi Ouassila , Skalli Ali , Rahhou Abderrahmane , Loukili Hamza , Gueddari Hicham , Choukri Rana , Saddiki Zakaria , Baghour Mourad
Published: May 2024

The main objective of this work is to study the spatial and temporal evolution and distribution of Euglena species in the Nador lagoon. The study is based on four sampling stations and covers two specific seasons, namely spring and summer 2018. Euglenes belonging to the genus Euglena are particularly interesting and well known in the field of research, due to their great diversity in terms of pigmentation, size and morphological characteristics. Samples taken at each of the four sampling stations were carefully identified morphologically using an inverted light microscope. In total, five species belonging to the genus Euglena were identified, namely: Euglena viridis O.F. Müller 1786, Euglena Caudata Hübner 1886, Euglena Proxima P.A. Dangeard 1902, Euglena tuberculata Svirenko 1915, Euglena sp. Quantitative analysis of the species collected reveals some interesting results. The maximum cell density was recorded at station 4, located near the wastewater treatment plant, with a value of 55 cells per litre during the summer of 2019. In contrast, the minimum cell density was recorded at the same station 4, corresponding to Kariat Arekmen, with a value of 5 cells per litre during the spring period of 2019. These observations highlight significant variations in Euglenes cell density depending on geographical location and season.