bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Spatial Heterogeneity of Cloud Phase Observed by Satellite
Authors: Sokol Adam B. , Storelvmo Trude
Published: January 2024

We conduct a global assessment of the spatial heterogeneity of cloud phase within the temperature range where liquid and ice can coexist. Single‐shot Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization lidar retrievals are used to examine cloud phase at scales as fine as 333 m, and horizontal heterogeneity is quantified according to the frequency of switches between liquid and ice along the satellite's path. In the global mean, heterogeneity is greatest between −15 and −4°C with a peak at −5°C, when small patches of ice are prevalent within liquid‐dominated clouds. Heterogeneity “hot spots” are typically found over the extratropical continents, whereas phase is relatively homogeneous over the Southern Ocean and the eastern subtropical ocean basins, where supercooled liquid clouds dominate. Even at a fixed temperature, heterogeneity undergoes a pronounced annual cycle that, in most places, consists of a minimum during autumn or winter and a maximum during spring or summer. Based on this spatial and temporal variability, it is hypothesized that heterogeneity is affected by the availability of ice nucleating particles. These results can be used to improve the representation of subgrid‐scale heterogeneity in general circulation models, which has the potential to reduce longstanding model biases in cloud phase partitioning and radiative fluxes.
Crucial Role of Bacterial Processes in the Net Community Production of the Amundsen Sea Polynya Disclosed by a Modeling Study
Authors: Kwon Young Shin , Hahm Doshik , Rhee Tae Siek , Kang Hyoun‐Woo
Published: January 2024

We investigated seasonal net community production (NCP) variations in the productive Amundsen Sea Polynya, integrating observational data and ecosystem modeling. NCP estimates (NCPO2/Ar) from in situ O2/Ar data during the austral summer (January‐March) from 2011 to 2018 were compared with those from a one‐dimensional ecosystem model. Early January saw the highest NCPO2/Ar values ranging from 115 to 139 mmol O2 m−2 d−1 among observations. Over the summer, NCPO2/Ar gradually decreased, reaching 40 mmol O2 m−2 d−1 by late February. Late summer values, though one‐third of early January, remained notably positive, indicating net autotrophy. This persisted despite sea surface temperature dropping from >−0.4°C in January to −1.33°C in late February. Refining NCPO2/Ar, we modified bacterial dynamics in our ecosystem model. Significantly improved model performance resulted from two key modifications. First, we introduced bacterial uptake dependency on Phaeocystis primary production. Second, we heightened temperature‐dependent bacterial respiration and production approximately fifteenfold. These changes revealed NCP's remarkable sensitivity to minor temperature fluctuations (<1°C). Furthermore, modified bacterial dynamics delayed the net primary production peak by 2 weeks, underlining the importance of phytoplankton‐bacteria interaction in the ocean carbon cycle. Model results estimated annual NCP in the Amundsen Sea Polynya at 4.04 mol C m−2, aligning with summer NCP estimates (0.2–5.9 mol C m−2) in observational study. Our study advances NCP understanding in polar regions, emphasizing comprehensive observations, including bacterial processes, for understanding intricate biotic interactions. These findings align with past observations on bacterial metabolism and Phaeocystis ecological properties in the Antarctic oceans.
Cyclodiode vs micropulse transscleral laser treatment
Authors: Kelada Monica , Normando Eduardo M. , Cordeiro Francesca M. , Crawley Laura , Ahmed Faisal , Ameen Sally , Vig Niten , Bloom Philip
Published: January 2024

Background

Continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TSCP) is usually reserved for advanced/refractory glaucoma. Micropulse transscleral laser therapy (MPTLT) utilises short energy pulses separated by ‘off’-periods. MPTLT is postulated to have fewer complications, but its relative efficacy is not known. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has deemed the evidence supporting MPTLT use of inadequate quality, limiting its use to research. This study aims to evaluate MPTLT efficacy and safety compared to CW-TSCP.

Methods

This 24-month follow-up retrospective audit included 85 CW-TSCP and 173 MPTLT eyes at a London tertiary referral centre. Primary outcome was success rate at the last follow-up; defined as at least 20% intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction with the same/fewer medications, and IOP between 6 and 18 mmHg. Secondary outcomes were acetazolamide use and success rates per glaucoma type. Safety outcomes were reported as complication rates.

Results

By 24-months, mean IOP reduced from 34.6[±1.4]mmHg to 19.0[ ± 3.0]mmHg post-CW-TSCP (p < 0.0001); and from 26.1[±0.8]mmHg to 19.1[±2.2]mmHg post-MPTLT (p < 0.0001). Average IOP decreased by 45.1% post-CW-TSCP, and 26.8% post-MPTLT. Both interventions reduced medication requirements (p ≤ 0.05). More CW-TSCP patients discontinued acetazolamide (p = 0.047). Overall success rate was 26.6% for CW-TSCP and 30.6% for MPTLT (p = 0.83). Only primary closed-angle glaucoma saw a significantly higher success rate following CW-TSCP (p = 0.014). CW-TSCP complication rate was significantly higher than MPTLT (p = 0.0048).

Conclusion

Both treatments significantly reduced IOP and medication load. CW-TSCP had a greater absolute/proportionate IOP-lowering effect, but it carried a significantly greater risk of sight-threatening complications. Further prospective studies are required to evaluate MPTLT compared to CW-TSCP.
Striatal dopamine signals reflect perceived cue–action–outcome associations in mice
Authors: Bernklau Tobias W. , Righetti Beatrice , Mehrke Leonie S. , Jacob Simon N.
Published: January 2024

Striatal dopamine drives associative learning by acting as a teaching signal. Much work has focused on simple learning paradigms, including Pavlovian and instrumental learning. However, higher cognition requires that animals generate internal concepts of their environment, where sensory stimuli, actions and outcomes become flexibly associated. Here, we performed fiber photometry dopamine measurements across the striatum of male mice as they learned cue–action–outcome associations based on implicit and changing task rules. Reinforcement learning models of the behavioral and dopamine data showed that rule changes lead to adjustments of learned cue–action–outcome associations. After rule changes, mice discarded learned associations and reset outcome expectations. Cue- and outcome-triggered dopamine signals became uncoupled and dependent on the adopted behavioral strategy. As mice learned the new association, coupling between cue- and outcome-triggered dopamine signals and task performance re-emerged. Our results suggest that dopaminergic reward prediction errors reflect an agent’s perceived locus of control.
Historical and current distribution ranges of the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus)
Authors: Waqar Unza , Mahmood Tariq , Mushtaq Muhammad , Murtaza Ghulam , Kashaf Muzna , Sheraz Ayesha
Published: January 2024

The current distribution of Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) is available on the IUCN Red List of Threatened species website; however, nothing is known about the historical extent and occurrence of this species. Therefore, we aimed to understand the historical distribution of the Asiatic black bear, and map and estimate its total size, to compare it with that of species current distribution. In addition, we analyzed a network of protected areas in the past and current ranges of the species. We employed geographic information system (GIS) software to reconstruct and measure the historical range of the Asiatic black bear, comparing past and current ranges to analyze its expected range contraction. The main focus of the study was to enhance our understanding of the species' historical distribution, contributing to better conservation strategies for the present and future perspectives. The utilization of GIS tools facilitates a comprehensive exploration of the factors influencing the species' decline, ultimately aiding in more effective management and conservation efforts. We used published records of black bear’s occurrence in anywhere in history to reconstruct its historical distribution range. Results revealed that the Asiatic black bear was more widely distributed in historical times and its range spanned across approximately 15.86 million km2 while its current range is limited to approximately 7.85 million km2, showing a range contraction of approximately 49.5% (8.02 million km2 reduced). The total protected areas in the historical range of the species were found to be N = 9933, with total size of 0.946 million km2, against N = 6580 (0.667 million km2) that are present in the current range. Approximately 27.5% of the protected areas have lost the Asiatic black bear since historical times.
Machine learning approaches for early detection of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis based on clinical and blood parameters
Authors: Naderi Yaghouti Amir Reza , Zamanian Hamed , Shalbaf Ahmad
Published: January 2024

This study aims to develop a machine learning approach leveraging clinical data and blood parameters to predict non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) based on the NAFLD Activity Score (NAS). Using a dataset of 181 patients, we performed preprocessing including normalization and categorical encoding. To identify predictive features, we applied sequential forward selection (SFS), chi-square, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and mutual information (MI). The selected features were used to train machine learning classifiers including SVM, random forest, AdaBoost, LightGBM, and XGBoost. Hyperparameter tuning was done for each classifier using randomized search. Model evaluation was performed using leave-one-out cross-validation over 100 repetitions. Among the classifiers, random forest, combined with SFS feature selection and 10 features, obtained the best performance: Accuracy: 81.32% ± 6.43%, Sensitivity: 86.04% ± 6.21%, Specificity: 70.49% ± 8.12% Precision: 81.59% ± 6.23%, and F1-score: 83.75% ± 6.23% percent. Our findings highlight the promise of machine learning in enhancing early diagnosis of NASH and provide a compelling alternative to conventional diagnostic techniques. Consequently, this study highlights the promise of machine learning techniques in enhancing early and non-invasive diagnosis of NASH based on readily available clinical and blood data. Our findings provide the basis for developing scalable approaches that can improve screening and monitoring of NASH progression.
Mendelian randomization study revealed a gut microbiota-neuromuscular junction axis in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Shi Jiaying , Yi Ming , Xie Shengyu , Wang Zhaokun , Zhang Xinyue , Tan Xiaolan , Tao Dachang , Liu Yunqiang , Yang Yuan
Published: January 2024

A growing number of studies have implicated that gut microbiota abundance is associated with myasthenia gravis (MG). However, the causal relationship underlying the associations is still unclear. Here, we aim to investigate the causal effect of gut microbiota on MG using Mendelian randomization (MR) method. Publicly available Genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary-level data for gut microbiota and for MG were extracted. Inverse variance weighted was used as the main method to analyze causality. The robustness of the results was validated with sensitivity analyses. Our results indicated that genetically predicted increased phylum Lentisphaerae (OR = 1.319, p = 0.026), class Lentisphaerae (OR = 1.306, p = 0.044), order Victivallales (OR = 1.306, p = 0.044), order Mollicutes (OR = 1.424, p = 0.041), and genus Faecalibacterium (OR = 1.763, p = 0.002) were potentially associated with a higher risk of MG; while phylum Actinobacteria (OR = 0.602, p = 0.0124), class Gammaproteobacteria (OR = 0.587, p = 0.036), family Defluviitaleaceae (OR = 0.695, p = 0.047), family Peptococcaceae (OR = 0.698, p = 0.029), and family Family XIII (OR = 0.614, p = 0.017) were related to a lower risk of MG. The present study provides genetic evidence for the causal associations between gut microbiota and MG, thus suggesting novel insights into the gut microbiota-neuromuscular junction axis in the pathogenesis of MG.
Josephson radiation threshold detector
Authors: Ali Soragga , Ouyang P. H. , He J. X. , Chai Y. Q. , Wei L. F.
Published: January 2024

A Josephson radiation threshold detector (JRTD) that is based on the threshold behaviour of a current bias Josephson junction (CBJJ) is designed and fabricated for infrared radiation (IR@1550nm) detection at low temperatures. To achieve the optimal performance, we develop a binary hypothesis detection method to calibrate Josephson threshold behaviours (i.e. the switching current distributions of the CBJJ with the Al/AlOx/Al junction) in the absence and presence of radiation. In the absence of IR radiation, the junction transitioned with a measurable voltage drop across the junction, and this signal was treated as the events of hypothesis H0. The events of junction transition observed in the presence of the IR radiation served as hypothesis H1. Considering the usual Gaussian noise and based on statistical decision theory, the accumulated data of the measured switching current distributions are processed, and the threshold sensitivity of the demonstrated JRTD device is estimated. The minimum detectable IR radiation power of the proposed detector is approximately 0.74 pW, which corresponds to the photon rate of 5.692 × 106 photons/second. Further optimisation of JRTDs to implement the desired binary detection of a single photon is still a subject of argument, at least theoretically.
One-year outcome of brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Japanese patients
Authors: Inoda Satoru , Takahashi Hidenori , Takahashi Ryota , Hashimoto Yuto , Yoshida Hana , Tsukii Rika , Takahashi Hironori , Kawashima Hidetoshi , Yanagi Yasuo
Published: January 2024

A new anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent, brolucizumab, was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2019. We evaluated whether brolucizumab reduces the treatment burden of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) after switching by examining 1-year treatment outcomes in a real-world setting. This retrospective single-institution study included 107 consecutive eyes with nAMD treated with brolucizumab. Among these eyes, 30 with treatment-naïve nAMD and 77 treated with other anti-VEGF agents for more than a year were included. All eyes were managed using a treat and extend (TAE) or modified TAE regimen. The last injection intervals at 52 weeks were 12.9 and 12.1 weeks in the treatment-naïve and switch therapy groups, respectively. Among switch therapy group patients whose pre-switch injection intervals were shorter than 120 days (n = 62 eyes), the injection interval was significantly longer after the switch than before, with a mean difference of 2.7 weeks (P < 0.0001). Intraocular inflammation events occurred in 2 and 7 treatment-naïve and switch therapy patients, respectively. In conclusion, brolucizumab might reduce the treatment burden in patients who required the injection of other anti-VEGF agents with a 120-day interval or shorter, despite a relatively high discontinuation rate due to intraocular inflammation.
Cost-efficient management of peatland to enhance biodiversity in Finland
Authors: Rana Parvez , Christiani Priscillia , Ahtikoski Anssi , Haikarainen Soili , Stenberg Leena , Juutinen Artti , Tolvanen Anne
Published: January 2024

Peatlands provide a variety of ecosystem services besides being important ecosystems for biodiversity. Sustainable peatland management requires that its impacts are identified, and all management is allocated in a cost-efficient manner. In this study, we assessed how peatland management influences the habitat suitability of red-listed plant species and the financial performance of management measured as net present value (NPV). The study was done in three landscapes in Finland. We considered four peatland management scenarios i.e., no management activity (NOMANAGE), hydrological restoration (REST), wood harvesting for bioenergy (BIOENERGY), and timber production (TIMBER). The NPVs of different management scenarios were compared to the habitat suitability of red-listed peatland plant species. A cost-impact analysis was used, with TIMBER as a baseline scenario, to find out which alternative scenario would be the most cost-efficient in contributing to habitat suitability. Our study shows that potential habitat areas were significantly different between the scenarios. REST provided the largest potential habitat areas, followed by BIOENERGY, NOMANAGE, and TIMBER. TIMBER provided the best financial performance when low interest rates were used. REST and BIOENERGY were more cost-efficient in enhancing potential habitat areas than NOMANAGE. REST would improve suitable habitats and provide financial benefits when a higher interest rate was used. In conclusion, even a win–win condition could be achieved in some cases (33%), in which higher NPV was achieved simultaneously with improved potential habitat areas. The study provides information for alleviating the economic barriers of restoration and targeting land use and management options cost-efficiently.
Turnover of sex chromosomes in the Lake Tanganyika cichlid tribe Tropheini (Teleostei: Cichlidae)
Authors: Behrens Kristen A. , Zimmermann Holger , Blažek Radim , Reichard Martin , Koblmüller Stephan , Kocher Thomas D.
Published: January 2024

Sex chromosome replacement is frequent in many vertebrate clades, including fish, frogs, and lizards. In order to understand the mechanisms responsible for sex chromosome turnover and the early stages of sex chromosome divergence, it is necessary to study lineages with recently evolved sex chromosomes. Here we examine sex chromosome evolution in a group of African cichlid fishes (tribe Tropheini) which began to diverge from one another less than 4 MYA. We have evidence for a previously unknown sex chromosome system, and preliminary indications of several additional systems not previously reported in this group. We find a high frequency of sex chromosome turnover and estimate a minimum of 14 turnovers in this tribe. We date the origin of the most common sex determining system in this tribe (XY-LG5/19) near the base of one of two major sub-clades of this tribe, about 3.4 MY ago. Finally, we observe variation in the size of one sex-determining region that suggests independent evolution of evolutionary strata in species with a shared sex-determination system. Our results illuminate the rapid rate of sex chromosome turnover in the tribe Tropheini and set the stage for further studies of the dynamics of sex chromosome evolution in this group.
The Synthesis of carbon dots//zincoxide (CDs/ZnO-H400) by using hydrothermal methods for degradation of ofloxacin antibiotics and reactive red azo dye (RR141)
Authors: Nugroho David , Wannakan Khemika , Nanan Suwat , Benchawattananon Rachadaporn
Published: January 2024

The development of photocatalytic powders to remove contaminants from air solutions is an important field of research in the field of environmental conservation. CD/ZnO-H400, a heterogeneous photocatalytic production, is utilized to degrade the reactive red dye and the antibiotic ofloxacin found in wastewater. This study explains the synthesis of carbon dots (CDs) derived from coconut air and zinc oxide (ZnO) using a hydrothermal method at a temperature of 180 °C with a duration of 4 h and subsequently calcinated at a 400 °C temperature for 4 h. This shows a significant improvement in photocatalytic performance due to improved delivery efficiency at the interface. The cost-efficient use of solar energy allows the comprehensive elimination of harmful pollutants through detoxification. The removal of the contaminant takes place through the first-order reaction, with RR141 showing the highest constant rate at 0.03 min−1, while ofloxacin has a constant speed at 0.01 min−1. The photocatalytic stability is measured after five cycles. The study also tested the impact of sunlight on degradation, showing a degrading rate of 98% for RR141 and 96% for ofloxacin. This study displays a new catalyst powder synthesized from carbon dots derived from the air, coconut and ZnO, showing remarkable photoactivity to completely remove harmful dyes and antibiotics from the surrounding environment.
A genome-wide association study reveals the relationship between human genetic variation and the nasal microbiome
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Tong Xin , Zou Leying , Ju Yanmei , Liu Mingliang , Han Mo , Lu Haorong , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Zong Yang , Liu Weibin , Xu Xun , Jin Xin , Xiao Liang , Jia Huijue , Guo Ruijin , Zhang Tao
Published: January 2024

The nasal cavity harbors diverse microbiota that contributes to human health and respiratory diseases. However, whether and to what extent the host genome shapes the nasal microbiome remains largely unknown. Here, by dissecting the human genome and nasal metagenome data from 1401 healthy individuals, we demonstrated that the top three host genetic principal components strongly correlated with the nasal microbiota diversity and composition. The genetic association analyses identified 63 genome-wide significant loci affecting the nasal microbial taxa and functions, of which 2 loci reached study-wide significance (p < 1.7 × 10-10): rs73268759 within CAMK2A associated with genus Actinomyces and family Actinomycetaceae; and rs35211877 near POM121L12 with Gemella asaccharolytica. In addition to respiratory-related diseases, the associated loci are mainly implicated in cardiometabolic or neuropsychiatric diseases. Functional analysis showed the associated genes were most significantly expressed in the nasal airway epithelium tissue and enriched in the calcium signaling and hippo signaling pathway. Further observational correlation and Mendelian randomization analyses consistently suggested the causal effects of Serratia grimesii and Yokenella regensburgei on cardiometabolic biomarkers (cystine, glutamic acid, and creatine). This study suggested that the host genome plays an important role in shaping the nasal microbiome.
A wearable sensor and framework for accurate remote monitoring of human motion
Authors: Gießler Maximilian , Werth Julian , Waltersberger Bernd , Karamanidis Kiros
Published: January 2024

Remote monitoring and evaluation of human motion during daily life require accurate extraction of kinematic quantities of body segments. Current approaches use inertial sensors that require numerical time differentiation to access the angular acceleration vector, a mathematical operation that greatly increases noise in the acceleration value. Here we introduce a wearable sensor that utilises a spatially defined cluster of inertial measurement units on a rigid base for directly measuring the angular acceleration vector. For this reason, we used computational modelling and experimental data to demonstrate that our new sensor configuration improves the accuracy of tracking angular acceleration vectors. We confirmed the feasibility of tracking human movement by automatic assessment of experimental fall initiation and balance recovery responses. The sensor therefore presents an opportunity to pioneer reliable assessment of human movement and balance in daily life.
DNMT3B PWWP mutations cause hypermethylation of heterochromatin
Authors: Taglini Francesca , Kafetzopoulos Ioannis , Rolls Willow , Musialik Kamila Irena , Lee Heng Yang , Zhang Yujie , Marenda Mattia , Kerr Lyndsay , Finan Hannah , Rubio-Ramon Cristina , Gautier Philippe , Wapenaar Hannah , Kumar Dhananjay , Davidson-Smith Hazel , Wills Jimi , Murphy Laura C , Wheeler Ann , Wilson Marcus D , Sproul Duncan
Published: January 2024

The correct establishment of DNA methylation patterns is vital for mammalian development and is achieved by the de novo DNA methyltransferases DNMT3A and DNMT3B. DNMT3B localises to H3K36me3 at actively transcribing gene bodies via its PWWP domain. It also functions at heterochromatin through an unknown recruitment mechanism. Here, we find that knockout of DNMT3B causes loss of methylation predominantly at H3K9me3-marked heterochromatin and that DNMT3B PWWP domain mutations or deletion result in striking increases of methylation in H3K9me3-marked heterochromatin. Removal of the N-terminal region of DNMT3B affects its ability to methylate H3K9me3-marked regions. This region of DNMT3B directly interacts with HP1α and facilitates the bridging of DNMT3B with H3K9me3-marked nucleosomes in vitro. Our results suggest that DNMT3B is recruited to H3K9me3-marked heterochromatin in a PWWP-independent manner that is facilitated by the protein’s N-terminal region through an interaction with a key heterochromatin protein. More generally, we suggest that DNMT3B plays a role in DNA methylation homeostasis at heterochromatin, a process which is disrupted in cancer, aging and Immunodeficiency, Centromeric Instability and Facial Anomalies (ICF) syndrome.
Recent progress of metal–organic framework-based nanozymes with oxidoreductase-like activity
Authors: Chi Zhongmei , Gu Jiali , Li Hui , Wang Qiong
Published: January 2024

The research progress of MOF-based nanozymes with oxidoreductase-like activity.
A novel dual-mode aptasensor based on a multiple amplification system for ultrasensitive detection of lead ions using fluorescence and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Teng Wanqing , Li Qi , Zhao Jing , Shi Pengfei , Zhang Jing , Yan Mei , Zhang Shusheng
Published: January 2024

A dual-mode aptasensor based on fluorescence and surface-enhanced Raman scattering for rapid and sensitive detection of lead ions.
Direct transformation of nitriles to cyanide using chloride anion as catalyst
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Li Yinghua , Fan Weibin , Huang Deguang
Published: January 2024

A C–CN bond cleavage reaction mediated by chloride anions in air is reported. The mechanism is explored by experimental studies and DFT calculations.
Recent advances in nanomedicine for metabolism-targeted cancer therapy
Authors: Da Jun , Di XinJia , Xie YuQi , Li JiLi , Zhang LiLi , Liu YanLan
Published: January 2024

Engineering nanomedicine targeting the unique cancer metabolism emerges as a powerful strategy for specific cancer therapy. In this article, recent advances in nanomaterial-mediated regulation of cancer-related important metabolites are highlighted.
Ultrasonic reduction: an unconventional route to exsolute Ag from perovskite La(Ag)FeO3−δ for enhanced catalytic oxidation activity
Authors: Wu Haijun , Geng Zhibin , Zhao Xu , Wang Qi , Ya Ming , Huang Taotao , Li Junzhi , Li Liping , Li Guangshe
Published: January 2024

An ultrasonic reduction method was first applied to synthesize perovskite Ag0.03−x/La0.87AgxHyFeO3–δ with Ag exsolution and proton-insertion, forming a composite for enhanced catalytic oxidation activity.
Reactivity of cationic silver clusters with O2: a probe of interplay between clusters’ geometric and electronic structures
Authors: Hu Jin , Ma Jun , Jin Zhengqian , Liu Wen , Huang Lulu , Wang Xuefeng , Xing Xiaopeng
Published: January 2024

The peculiar size-dependent reactivity of Agn+(n= 2–22) with O2can be attributed to varying HOMO–LUMO gaps of clusters, which correlate with the subtle interplay between their electronic properties and geometric structures.
NiRu–Mo2Ti2C3O2 as an efficient catalyst for alkaline hydrogen evolution reactions: the role of bimetallic site interactions in promoting Volmer-step kinetics
Authors: Xi Qing , Xie Fangxia , Sun Zijun , Liu Jianxin , Zhang Xiaochao , Wang Yawen , Zhou Aijuan , Ma Xiaoli , Gao Xiaoming , Yue Xiuping , Ren Jun , Fan Caimei , Jian Xuan , Li Rui
Published: January 2024

NiRu–Mo2Ti2C3O2 promotes smooth *OH migration and facilitates desorption at Ni sites, thus accelerating overall Volmer kinetics.
Ionic Peltier effect in Li-ion electrolytes
Authors: Cheng Zhe , Huang Yu-Ju , Zahiri Beniamin , Kwon Patrick , Braun Paul V. , Cahill David G.
Published: January 2024

Peltier heat effect related to ion transport in Li-ion thermogalvanic cell.
Edge-sharing bi-octahedral diruthenium(iv,iv) compounds containing Ru–Ru bonds chelated and bridged by two carbonate and two oxo groups
Authors: He Yu-Ru , Zhang Mi , Huang Wen-Hui , Xue Xiang-Xian , Zhou Zi-Qin , Feng Li-Na , Yang Jian-Hui , Liu Bin
Published: January 2024

A study of the diverse effects of reactants, pH, and concentration on the transformation of bi-octahedral configuration of Ru2(CO3)43− resulted in a series of ESBO diruthenium compounds 1–5 containing a neutral Ru2(μ-O)2(μ-O3C)2 core.
One-pot gram-scale rapid synthesis of MN4 complexes with 14-membered ring macrocyclic ligand as a precursor for carbon-based ORR and CO2RR catalysts
Authors: Ogawa Mana , Usami Sayaka , Takahama Ryo , Iwamoto Kazuko , Nabeta Tomomi , Kawashima Shin , Kojima Ryoichi , Ohyama Junya , Hayakawa Teruaki , Nabae Yuta , Moriya Makoto
Published: January 2024

MN4-type complexes with a 14-membered ring hexaazamacrocycle ligand were synthesised via a one-pot, gram-scale synthesis procedure using microwave heating for only 10 min.
PFAS occurrence and distribution in yard waste compost indicate potential volatile loss, downward migration, and transformation
Authors: Saha Biraj , Ateia Mohamed , Fernando Sujan , Xu Jiale , DeSutter Thomas , Iskander Syeed Md
Published: January 2024

This novel investigation revealed substantial PFAS contamination and plastic-PFAS co-occurrence in yard waste compost. Insights gained from the distribution of PFAS in compost are valuable for improving its management and application.
Bio-based solvents as a sustainable alternative to develop a multiproduct biorefinery process from archaebacteria Halobacterium salinarum R1
Authors: Kholany Mariam , Macário Inês P. E. , Veloso Telma , Contieri Letícia S. , Vaz Bárbara M. C. , Pereira Joana L. , Nunes Cláudia , Coutinho João A. P. , Rostagno Maurício A. , Ventura Sónia P. M. , de Souza Mesquita Leonardo M.
Published: January 2024

An innovative biorefinery approach was developed to obtain multiple high-value compounds from a marine bacterium. Bio-based solvents as sustainable alternatives to develop more sustainable downstream processes.
Donor–acceptor sp2covalent organic frameworks for photocatalytic H2O2production and tandem bisphenol-A degradation
Authors: Deng Maojun , Wang Linyang , Wen Zhongliang , Chakraborty Jeet , Sun Jiamin , Wang Guizhen , Van Der Voort Pascal
Published: January 2024

Covalent organic frameworks are tunable photocatalysts. We synthesized donor–acceptor COFs and obtained a photocatalytic H2O2production rate of 1952 μmol g−1h−1in pure water and a rapid degradation of bisphenol A by a double action (photocatalytic and byin situH2O2).
Establishing the main determinants of the environmental safety of catalytic fine chemical synthesis with catalytic cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Egorova Ksenia S. , Kolesnikov Andrey E. , Posvyatenko Alexandra V. , Galushko Alexey S. , Shaydullin Ruslan R. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: January 2024

Bio-risk assessment was conducted for Sonogashira and Mizoroki–Heck reactions. bio-Strips showed the cytotoxicity of the reaction components. The study suggests the rules of eco-friendly design for future catalytic processes.
Harnessing solvation-guided engineering to enhance deep eutectic solvent resistance and thermostability in enzymes
Authors: Sheng Yijie , Cui Haiyang , Wang Xinyue , Wang Minghui , Song Ping , Huang He , Li Xiujuan
Published: January 2024

A rational design strategy named solvation-guided engineering was developed to modify enzyme resistance to DESs and high temperatures.
Electrochemical epoxidation of alkene with high faradaic efficiencies using water as an oxygen source
Authors: Wu Hao , Xu Yousen , Guo Pengyu , Xu Yuqing , Huang Zheng , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2024

An efficient electrochemical epoxidation of alkenes catalyzed by (TMP)MnCl with water as the oxygen source is disclosed. The reaction achieved impressive faradaic efficiencies (up to 89%) for a broad range of substrates.
Path-dependent morphology of CH4 hydrates and their dissociation studied with high-pressure microfluidics
Authors: Zhang Jidong , Yin Zhenyuan , Khan Saif A. , Li Shuxia , Li Qingping , Liu Xiaohui , Linga Praveen
Published: January 2024

Methane hydrates (MHs) formation and dissociation behavior at pore-scale using high-pressure microfluidics.
Screening of efficient salicylaldoxime reactivators for DFP and paraoxon-inhibited acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Wei Zhao , Zhang Dongxu , Liu Xueying , Nie Huifang , Ouyang Qin , Zhang Xinlei , Zheng Zhibing
Published: January 2024

Dual-site binding mode of lead compounds with AChE and construction of novel salicylaldoxime reactivators using a fragment-based drug design strategy.
Engineering a hollow bowl-like porous carbon-confined Ru–MgO hetero-structured nanopair as a high-performance catalyst for ammonia borane hydrolysis
Authors: Yang Jialei , Yang Zhenyu , Li Jiafu , Gang Hao , Mei Donghai , Yin Dongming , Deng Ruiping , Zhu Yifeng , Li Xingyun , Wang Ning , Osman Sameh M. , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: January 2024

A sub-nano interfacial catalytic structure is orchestrated by tailor-designing a hollow bowl-like porous carbon-confined Ru–MgO hetero-structured nanopair as a high-performance catalyst for ammonia borane hydrolysis.
Developing strategies to optimize the anchorage between electrospun nanofibers and hydrogels for multi-layered plasmonic biomaterials
Authors: Ziai Yasamin , Lanzi Massimiliano , Rinoldi Chiara , Zargarian Seyed Shahrooz , Zakrzewska Anna , Kosik-Kozioł Alicja , Nakielski Paweł , Pierini Filippo
Published: January 2024

Interface in multi-layer plasmonic hydrogel/fiber nanocomposites supports a stable platform. Impact of various properties of the nanofibrous layer, and plasmonic hydrogel layer on the intralayer adhesion, and their biocompatibility was investigated.
Synthesis of dithioglycol-functionalized periodic mesoporous organosilicas for the simultaneous removal of mercury ions and organic dyes from water
Authors: Zhao Yuanjiang , Liu Yuhang , Jiang Liming
Published: January 2024

Synthesis of PMOs containing thiol and thioether groups for simultaneous removal of Hg(ii) and RhB from simulated sewage is reported.
Synthesis and characterization of C2-symmetric bis(carboxamide) pincer ligands
Authors: Razuwika Rufaro , Munro Orde Q.
Published: January 2024

Structural, spectroscopic, and computational studies on C2-symmetric bis(carboxamide) pincer ligands indicate excess populations of one atropisomer (enantiomer) are favoured both in solution and the solid state for sufficiently bulky derivatives.
A theoretical study on radical scavenging activity of phenolic derivatives naturally found within Alternaria alternata extract
Authors: Abraham Alen Binu , Panneerselvam Murugesan , Ebenezer Cheriyan , Costa Luciano T. , Vijay Solomon Rajadurai
Published: January 2024

The antioxidant mechanisms and properties of four dibenzopyrone phenolic compounds from Alternaria alternata are studied using DFT, molecular docking, and dynamics studies.
Robust imidazole-linked Ni-phthalocyanine-based covalent-organic framework for CO2 electroreduction in the full pH range
Authors: Yang Xu , Si Duan-Hui , Li Hong-Fang , Cao Rong , Huang Yuan-Biao
Published: January 2024

Ni-phthalocyanine-based covalent-organic framework linked by imidazole group exhibits brilliant stability and high activity of CO2 electroreduction reaction with over 90% CO Faradic efficiency in full pH range.
Visible light-mediated ring opening and cyclization of aryl cyclopropanes: efficient synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalin-4(5H)-ones with antineoplastic activity
Authors: Shen Jiabin , Yang Yong , Chen Chao , Xu Hao , Shen Chao , Zhang Pengfei
Published: January 2024

This study describes an efficient and green approach for the synthesis of potentially bioactive pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalin-4(5H)-ones with appreciable functional group tolerance and a wide substrate scope.
Magneto-controlled electrochemical immunosensing platform to assess the senescence-associated GDF-15 marker in colorectal cancer
Authors: Tejerina-Miranda Sandra , Pérez-Ginés Víctor , Torrente-Rodríguez Rebeca M. , Pedrero María , Montero-Calle Ana , Pingarrón José M. , Barderas Rodrigo , Campuzano Susana
Published: January 2024

Novel amperometric immunoplatform using magnetic micro-supports and screen-printed carbon electrodes, overcoming limitations of the reported methods, to assess the senescence-associated GDF-15 marker in diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer.
Development of a CO2-biomethanation reactor for producing methane from green H2
Authors: Cwicklinski Grégory , Miras Roger , Pérard Julien , Rinaldi Clara , Darrouzet Elisabeth , Cavazza Christine
Published: January 2024

A modular, lab-made, frugal and robust CO2-biomethanation reactor.
One-pot synthesis of defect engineered carbon nitride for highly efficient visible light photocatalysis
Authors: Li Xuying , Mai Haoxin , Wang Xingdong , Xie Zongli , Lu Junlin , Wen Xiaoming , Russo Salvy P. , Chen Dehong , Caruso Rachel A.
Published: January 2024

Solvothermally prepared defect-engineered CN samples, featuring surface cyano groups and carbon doping, enhance light absorption and charge separation, significantly improving visible light photodegradation.
A “belt” strategy for promoting the 3D network packing of fully non-fused ring acceptors in organic solar cells
Authors: Cui Tianqiang , Huang Zhan , Zhang Yamin , Ru Xiao-Peng , Bi Xingqi , Ding Yun-Tao , Yang Yongrui , Dai Junpeng , Lu Guanghao , Liu Zitong , Chen Yongsheng , Zhang Hao-Li
Published: January 2024

With a cyclic “belt”, non-fused ring acceptor CSO4TIC shows more desirable performance compared to its counterpart with conventional linear side chains.
Advanced strategies for CRISPR/Cas9 delivery and applications in gene editing, therapy, and cancer detection using nanoparticles and nanocarriers
Authors: Hii Adric Ru Khiing , Qi Xiaole , Wu Zhenghong
Published: January 2024

Cancer remains one of the deadliest diseases, and is characterised by the uncontrolled growth of modified human cells.
Size-selective adhesion of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals to lipid membranes
Authors: Cui Ziyu , Chin Che-Lun , Kurniawan Akhtar Fikri , Huang Ching-Chun , Huang Ling-Ting , Chao Ling
Published: January 2024

Our findings demonstrate that calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals can size-selectively influence the organization of fluid phospholipid membranes and facilitate the size-selective adhesion, potentially via water-mediated hydrogen bonding.
Immune-cell-mediated tissue engineering strategies for peripheral nerve injury and regeneration
Authors: Zhao Xueying , Deng Hui , Feng Yuan , Wang Yuehan , Yao Xiaomin , Ma Yuyang , Zhang Luzhong , Jie Jing , Yang Pengxiang , Yang Yumin
Published: January 2024

Effective immune response is an indispensable process for peripheral nerve regeneration and the tissue engineering strategies provide an approach for regulating immune cells that promote nerve repair.
Recent advances in light-triggered cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Yang Jin-Kyoung , Kwon Hayoon , Kim Sehoon
Published: January 2024

Combining phototherapies, particularly PDT and PTT, with immunotherapy synergistically stimulates immune responses, offering promising strategies for effective cancer treatment and prevention of recurrence.
Metal co-doped cesium manganese chlorine nanocrystals with high efficiency and tunable red emission
Authors: Liu Shijia , Zhang Xuebin , Xu Qin , Xu Zhiheng , Zeng Haibo , Yang Dandan
Published: January 2024

Metal co-doped cesium manganese halide nanocrystals are synthesized to enhance the red emission depending on the transitional role of Tm3+ ions, and realize tunable red emission from 660 nm to 628 nm by controlling the Pb doping contents.
Gated nanoprobe utilizing metal–organic frameworks for identifying and distinguishing between the wild strains and the vaccine strains of brucella
Authors: Li Dong , Ren Shuna , Wang Xiaotong , Chen Lili , You Shuang , Tang Yan , Chen Lihua
Published: January 2024

A novel gated nanoprobe using MOF as a scaffold and hairpin DNA as a "gating switch". It is used to confirm the strain type of brucella.
In memoriam of Joel Pedersen
Authors: Haynes Christy L. , Hamers Robert J.
Published: January 2024

Robert Hamers and Christy Haynes introduce this special issue in memory of Joel Pedersen.
Towards predictive control of reversible nanoparticle assembly with solid-binding proteins
Authors: Cai Yifeng , Qi Xin , Boese Julia , Zhao Yundi , Hellner Brittney , Chun Jaehun , Mundy Christopher J. , Baneyx François
Published: January 2024

We combine multiscale modeling with solution and protein engineering to derive design principles for controlling growth and fragmentation pathways in stimuli-responsive protein-nanoparticle assemblies.
Recent insights into the control of mitochondrial fission
Authors: He Jiajia , Liu Ke , Fu Chuanhai
Published: January 2024

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell. They undergo fission and fusion to maintain cellular homeostasis. In this review, we explore the intricate regulation of mitochondrial fission at various levels, including the protein level, the post-translational modification level, and the organelle level. Malfunctions in mitochondrial fission can have detrimental effects on cells. Therefore, we also examine the association between mitochondrial fission with diseases such as breast cancer and cardiovascular disorders. We anticipate that a comprehensive investigation into the control of mitochondrial fission will pave the way for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
Polycomb-mediated histone modifications and gene regulation
Authors: Ito Shinsuke , Umehara Takashi , Koseki Haruhiko
Published: January 2024

Polycomb repressive complexes 1 and 2 (PRC1 and PRC2) are transcriptional repressor complexes that play a fundamental role in epigenomic regulation and the cell-fate decision; these complexes are widely conserved in multicellular organisms. PRC1 is an E3 ubiquitin (ub) ligase that generates histone H2A ubiquitinated at lysine (K) 119 (H2AK119ub1), whereas PRC2 is a histone methyltransferase that specifically catalyzes tri-methylation of histone H3K27 (H3K27me3). Genome-wide analyses have confirmed that these two key epigenetic marks highly overlap across the genome and contribute to gene repression. We are now beginning to understand the molecular mechanisms that enable PRC1 and PRC2 to identify their target sites in the genome and communicate through feedback mechanisms to create Polycomb chromatin domains. Recently, it has become apparent that PRC1-induced H2AK119ub1 not only serves as a docking site for PRC2 but also affects the dynamics of the H3 tail, both of which enhance PRC2 activity, suggesting that trans-tail communication between H2A and H3 facilitates the formation of the Polycomb chromatin domain. In this review, we discuss the emerging principles that define how PRC1 and PRC2 establish the Polycomb chromatin domain and regulate gene expression in mammals.
Quantifying Articulatory Working Space in Individuals Surgically Treated for Oral Cancer With Electromagnetic Articulography
Authors: Tienkamp Thomas B. , Rebernik Teja , Halpern Bence M. , van Son Rob J. J. H. , Wieling Martijn , Witjes Max J. H. , de Visscher Sebastiaan A. H. J. , Abur Defne
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to quantify sentence-level articulatory kinematics in individuals treated for oral squamous cell carcinoma (ITOC) compared to control speakers while also assessing the effect of treatment site (jaw vs. tongue). Furthermore, this study aimed to assess the relation between articulatory–kinematic measures and self-reported speech problems.

Method:

Articulatory–kinematic data from the tongue tip, tongue back, and jaw were collected using electromagnetic articulography in nine Dutch ITOC and eight control speakers. To quantify articulatory kinematics, the two-dimensional articulatory working space (AWS; in mm
2
), one-dimensional anteroposterior range of motion (AP-ROM; in mm), and superior–inferior range of motion (SI-ROM in mm) were calculated and examined. Self-reported speech problems were assessed with the Speech Handicap Index (SHI).

Results:

Compared to a sex-matched control group, ITOC showed significantly smaller AWS, AP-ROM, and SI-ROM for both the tongue tip and tongue back sensor, but no significant differences were observed for the jaw sensor. This pattern was found for both individuals treated for tongue and jaw tumors. Moderate nonsignificant correlations were found between the SHI and the AWS of the tongue back and jaw sensors.

Conclusions:

Despite large individual variation, ITOC showed reduced one- and two-dimensional tongue, but not jaw, movements compared to control speakers and treatment for tongue and jaw tumors resulted in smaller tongue movements. A larger sample size is needed to establish a more generalizable connection between the AWS and the SHI. Further research should explore how these kinematic changes in ITOC are related to acoustic and perceptual measures of speech.
The effects of general relativity on close-in radial-velocity-detected exosystems
Authors: Volpi Mara , Libert Anne-Sophie
Published: January 2024

Aims. The detection of the first exoplanet around a solar-type star revealed the existence of close-in planets. Several of these close-in planets are part of multi-planet systems. For systems detected via the radial velocity (RV) method, we lack information on the mutual inclination of the orbital planes. The aim of this work is to study the long-term stability of RV-detected two-planet systems with close-in planets and identify possible three-dimensional configurations for these systems that are compatible with observations. To do so, we focused on the protective mechanism of the Lidov-Kozai (LK) secular resonance and studied the effects of general relativity (GR) on long-term evolution.

Methods. By means of an analytical study based on a high-order secular Hamiltonian expansion in the eccentricities and inclinations, we first identified ranges of values for the orbital and mutual inclinations that are compatible with the presence of the LK resonance in the purely gravitational case. Then, adding the secular contribution of the relativistic corrections exerted by the central star on the inner planet, namely the advance of its pericenter precession, we analysed the outcomes of the two sets of simulations. We compared our results to analytical estimates to determine the importance of GR effects.

Results. We find that for the majority of the systems considered, GR strongly affects the dynamics of the system and, most of the time, voids the LK resonance, as observed for GJ 649, GJ 832, HD 187123, HD 190360, HD 217107, and HD 47186. The long-term stability of these systems is then possible whatever the mutual inclination of the orbits. On the contrary, for GJ 682, HD 11964, HD 147018, and HD 9446, the LK resonant region in the parameter space of the orbital and mutual inclinations is left (almost) unchanged when GR effects are considered, and consequently their long-term stability is only possible if the mutual inclination of the orbits is low or if the systems are in the LK regime with a high mutual inclination.