bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PTPN23 ubiquitination by WDR4 suppresses EGFR and c-MET degradation to define a lung cancer therapeutic target
Authors: Singh Shaifali , Yeat Nai Yang , Wang Ya-Ting , Lin Shu-Yu , Kuo I-Ying , Wu Kuen-Phon , Wang Won-Jing , Wang Wen-Ching , Su Wu-Chou , Wang Yi-Ching , Chen Ruey-Hwa
Published: October 2023

Aberrant overexpression or activation of EGFR drives the development of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and acquired resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) by secondary EGFR mutations or c-MET amplification/activation remains as a major hurdle for NSCLC treatment. We previously identified WDR4 as a substrate adaptor of Cullin 4 ubiquitin ligase and an association of WDR4 high expression with poor prognosis of lung cancer. Here, using an unbiased ubiquitylome analysis, we uncover PTPN23, a component of the ESCRT complex, as a substrate of WDR4-based ubiquitin ligase. WDR4-mediated PTPN23 ubiquitination leads to its proteasomal degradation, thereby suppressing lysosome trafficking and degradation of wild type EGFR, EGFR mutant, and c-MET. Through this mechanism, WDR4 sustains EGFR and c-MET signaling to promote NSCLC proliferation, migration, invasion, stemness, and metastasis. Clinically, PTPN23 is downregulated in lung cancer and its low expression correlates with WDR4 high expression and poor prognosis. Targeting WDR4-mediated PTPN23 ubiquitination by a peptide that competes with PTPN23 for binding WDR4 promotes EGFR and c-MET degradation to block the growth and progression of EGFR TKI-resistant NSCLC. These findings identify a central role of WDR4/PTPN23 axis in EGFR and c-MET trafficking and a potential therapeutic target for treating EGFR TKI-resistant NSCLC.
Fast generation of Schrödinger cat states using a Kerr-tunable superconducting resonator
Authors: He X. L. , Lu Yong , Bao D. Q. , Xue Hang , Jiang W. B. , Wang Z. , Roudsari A. F. , Delsing Per , Tsai J. S. , Lin Z. R.
Published: October 2023

Schrödinger cat states, quantum superpositions of macroscopically distinct classical states, are an important resource for quantum communication, quantum metrology and quantum computation. Especially, cat states in a phase space protected against phase-flip errors can be used as a logical qubit. However, cat states, normally generated in three-dimensional cavities and/or strong multi-photon drives, are facing the challenges of scalability and controllability. Here, we present a strategy to generate and preserve cat states in a coplanar superconducting circuit by the fast modulation of Kerr nonlinearity. At the Kerr-free work point, our cat states are passively preserved due to the vanishing Kerr effect. We are able to prepare a 2-component cat state in our chip-based device with a fidelity reaching 89.1% under a 96 ns gate time. Our scheme shows an excellent route to constructing a chip-based bosonic quantum processor.
Creating tunable lateral optical forces through multipolar interplay in single nanowires
Authors: Nan Fan , Rodríguez-Fortuño Francisco J. , Yan Shaohui , Kingsley-Smith Jack J. , Ng Jack , Yao Baoli , Yan Zijie , Xu Xiaohao
Published: October 2023

The concept of lateral optical force (LOF) is of general interest in optical manipulation as it releases the constraint of intensity gradient in tightly focused light, yet such a force is normally limited to exotic materials and/or complex light fields. Here, we report a general and controllable LOF in a nonchiral elongated nanoparticle illuminated by an obliquely incident plane wave. Through computational analysis, we reveal that the sign and magnitude of LOF can be tuned by multiple parameters of the particle (aspect ratio, material) and light (incident angle, direction of linear polarization, wavelength). The underlying physics is attributed to the multipolar interplay in the particle, leading to a reduction in symmetry. Direct experimental evidence of switchable LOF is captured by polarization-angle-controlled manipulation of single Ag nanowires using holographic optical tweezers. This work provides a minimalist paradigm to achieve interface-free LOF for optomechanical applications, such as optical sorting and light-driven micro/nanomotors.
Structures illustrate step-by-step mitochondrial transcription initiation
Authors: Goovaerts Quinten , Shen Jiayu , De Wijngaert Brent , Basu Urmimala , Patel Smita S. , Das Kalyan
Published: October 2023

Transcription initiation is a key regulatory step in gene expression during which RNA polymerase (RNAP) initiates RNA synthesis de novo, and the synthesized RNA at a specific length triggers the transition to the elongation phase. Mitochondria recruit a single-subunit RNAP and one or two auxiliary factors to initiate transcription. Previous studies have revealed the molecular architectures of yeast1 and human2 mitochondrial RNAP initiation complexes (ICs). Here we provide a comprehensive, stepwise mechanism of transcription initiation by solving high-resolution cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of yeast mitochondrial RNAP and the transcription factor Mtf1 catalysing two- to eight-nucleotide RNA synthesis at single-nucleotide addition steps. The growing RNA–DNA is accommodated in the polymerase cleft by template scrunching and non-template reorganization, creating stressed intermediates. During early initiation, non-template strand scrunching and unscrunching destabilize the short two- and three-nucleotide RNAs, triggering abortive synthesis. Subsequently, the non-template reorganizes into a base-stacked staircase-like structure supporting processive five- to eight-nucleotide RNA synthesis. The expanded non-template staircase and highly scrunched template in IC8 destabilize the promoter interactions with Mtf1 to facilitate initiation bubble collapse and promoter escape for the transition from initiation to the elongation complex (EC). The series of transcription initiation steps, each guided by the interplay of multiple structural components, reveal a finely tuned mechanism for potential regulatory control.
CherryChèvre: A fine-grained dataset for goat detection in natural environments
Authors: Vayssade Jehan-Antoine , Arquet Rémy , Troupe Willy , Bonneau Mathieu
Published: October 2023

We introduce a new dataset for goat detection that contains 6160 annotated images captured under varying environmental conditions. The dataset is intended for developing machine learning algorithms for goat detection, with applications in precision agriculture, animal welfare, behaviour analysis, and animal husbandry. The annotations were performed by expert in computer vision, ensuring high accuracy and consistency. The dataset is publicly available and can be used as a benchmark for evaluating existing algorithms. This dataset advances research in computer vision for agriculture.
H19 encourages aerobic glycolysis and cell growth in gastric cancer cells through the axis of microRNA-19a-3p and phosphoglycerate kinase 1
Authors: Chen Siche , Wang Haiping , Xu Peiren , Dang Shengchun , Tang Yongqin
Published: October 2023

Numerous studies have been conducted on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in human tumors like gastric cancer (GC). Our research uncovers how aerobic glycolysis and cell proliferation in gastric cancer cells are related to H19. We discovered that H19 was highly expressed in tumor tissues and that patients with higher H19 expression have a poorer prognosis. Intriguingly, we applied the subcellular isolation, luciferase reporter, western blot analysis, MTT, colony formation experiments, and CDX Model in Mice to verify that H19 regulates aerobic glycolysis towards GC cell growth by H19/microRNA (miR)-19a-3p/phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) axis. Together, our research offers proof that the H19/miR-19a-3p/PGK1 pathway aids in the regulation of aerobic glycolysis and cell proliferation in GC. This may offer an opportunity for novel therapeutic approaches to the treatment of GC.
Robust genetic machine learning ensemble model for intrusion detection in network traffic
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad Ali , Qadri Syed Muhammad Owais , Siddiqui Maria Andleeb , Mustafa Syed Muhammad Nabeel , Javaid Saba , Ali Syed Abbas
Published: October 2023

Network security has developed as a critical research subject as a result of the Rapid advancements in the development of Internet and communication technologies over the previous decades. The expansion of networks and data has caused cyber-attacks on the systems, making it difficult for network security to detect breaches effectively. Current Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) have several flaws, including their inability to prevent attacks on their own, the requirement for a professional engineer to administer them, and the occurrence of false alerts. As a result, a plethora of new attacks are being created, making it harder for network security to properly detect breaches. Despite the best efforts, IDS continues to struggle with increasing detection accuracy while lowering false alarm rates and detecting new intrusions. Therefore, network intrusion detection enhancement by preprocessing and generation of highly reliable algorithms is the main focus nowadays. Machine learning (ML) based IDS systems have recently been implemented as viable solutions for quickly detecting intrusions across the network. In this study, we use a combined data analysis technique with four Robust Machine learning ensemble algorithms, including the Voting Classifier, Bagging Classifier, Gradient Boosting Classifier, and Random Forest-based Bagging algorithm along with the proposed Robust genetic ensemble classifier. For each algorithm, a model is created and tested using a Network Dataset. To assess the performance of both algorithms in terms of their ability to anticipate the anomaly occurrence, graphs of performance rates have been evaluated. The suggested algorithm outperformed other methods as it shows the lowest values of mean square error (MSE) and mean absolute error (MAE). The experiments were conducted on the Network traffic dataset available on Kaggle, on the Python platform, which has limited samples. The proposed method can be applied in the future with more machine learning ensemble classifiers and deep learning techniques.
Unsupervised machine learning method for indirect estimation of reference intervals for chronic kidney disease in the Puerto Rican population
Authors: Velev Julian , LeBien Jack , Roche-Lima Abiel
Published: October 2023

Reference intervals (RIs) for clinical laboratory values are extremely important for diagnostics and treatment of patients. However, the determination of these ranges is costly and time-consuming. As a result, often different unverified RIs are used in practice for the same analyte and the same range is used for all patients despite evidence that the values are gender, age, and ethnicity dependent. Moreover, the abnormal flags are rudimentary, merely indicating if a value is within the RI. At the same time, clinical lab data generated in the everyday medical practice contains a wealth of information, that given the correct methodology, can help determine the RIs for each specific segment of the population, including populations that suffer from health disparities. In this work, we develop unsupervised machine learning methods, based on Gaussian mixtures, to determine RIs of analytes related to chronic kidney disease, using millions of routine lab results for the Puerto Rican population. We show that the measures are both gender and age dependent and we find evidence for normal age-related organ function deterioration and failure. We also show that the joint distribution of measures improves the diagnostic value of the lab results.
Characteristics and risk of interstitial lung disease in dermatomyositis and polymyositis: a retrospective cohort study in Japan
Authors: Hu Qingqing , Huang Kuan-Chih , Goh Choo Hua , Tsuchiya Yumi , Liu Yanfang , Qiu Hong
Published: October 2023

Dermatomyositis and polymyositis are rare, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Interstitial lung disease is one of the most common and potentially severe extra-muscular manifestations of dermatomyositis and polymyositis and is strongly linked to poor prognosis and early mortality. We aimed to characterise the demographic and clinical characteristics, incidence, and treatment of interstitial lung disease in patients with dermatomyositis or polymyositis. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Japan Medical Data Center healthcare claims database. Patients in the database with dermatomyositis (International Classification of Disease version 10 M33.0, M33.1, M33.9) or polymyositis (M33.2) from 01-Jan-2011 until 31-Dec-2019 were identified and followed-up for interstitial lung disease (J84.x) until death, dis-enrolment, or study end (31 December 2020). Cumulative risk curves compared interstitial lung disease risk in dermatomyositis versus polymyositis. Risk factors were evaluated by Cox proportional hazard models. There were 886 patients with dermatomyositis and 745 patients with polymyositis included in the cohort analysis. Mean (standard deviation) age at dermatomyositis/polymyositis diagnosis was 46.0 (16.0)/49.7 (13.3) years and 300 (34%)/104 (14%) developed interstitial lung disease during follow-up. The incidence rate of interstitial lung disease per 100 person-years was 18.42 (95% CI 16.42–20.59) for dermatomyositis and 5.39 (95% CI 4.43–6.50) for polymyositis. In the analysis adjusted for sex, age, and comorbidity score, the risk of interstitial lung disease was significantly higher in patients with dermatomyositis than with polymyositis (hazard ratio 2.72, 95% CI 2.18–3.41). The rate diverged markedly between the groups in the first year after diagnosis. Risk factors for interstitial lung disease were older age in dermatomyositis, female sex and rheumatoid arthritis in polymyositis. Glucocorticoids with/without tacrolimus were the most common newly prescribed drugs after the interstitial lung disease diagnosis. In conclusion, the risk of developing interstitial lung disease was significantly higher in patients with dermatomyositis than with polymyositis, and risk factors were different in the 2 patient groups.
New approaches to selecting a scan-sampling method for chicken behavioral observations and their practical implications
Authors: Cartoni Mancinelli Alice , Trocino Angela , Menchetti Laura , Chiattelli Diletta , Ciarelli Claudia , Castellini Cesare
Published: October 2023

The use of the scan-sampling method, especially when a large amount of data is collected, has become widespread in behavioral studies. However, there are no specific guidelines regarding the choice of the sampling interval in different conditions. Thus, establishing a standard approach for video analysis represents an important step forward within the scientific community. In the present work, we hypothesized that the length of the sampling interval could influence the results of chicken behavioral study, for which we evaluated the reliability, accuracy, and validity of three different sampling intervals (10, 15 and 30 min). The Bland–Altman test was proposed as an innovative approach to compare sampling intervals and support researcher choices. Moreover, these sampling intervals were applied to compare the behavior of 4 chicken genotypes kept under free-range conditions. The Bland–Altman plots suggested that sampling intervals greater than 10 min lead to biases in the estimation of rare behaviors, such as “Attacking”. In contrast, the 30-min sampling interval was able to detect differences among genotypes in high-occurrence behaviors, such as those associated with locomotory activity. Thus, from a practical viewpoint, when a broad characterization of chicken genotypes is required, the 30-min scan-sampling interval might be suggested as a good compromise between resources and results.
Genetic structure and kdr mutations in Aedes aegypti populations along a road crossing the Amazon Forest in Amapá State, Brazil
Authors: Souza Barbara S. , Lima Leticia F. , Galardo Allan K. R. , Corbel Vincent , Lima Jose Bento P. , Martins Ademir J.
Published: October 2023

Insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti poses a significant threat to disease control. One form of resistance, caused by kdr mutations in the NaV gene, hinders vector control efforts in Brazil. Despite genetic differences typically accumulating among isolated populations, this mosquito can actively and passively disperse through human transportation. Our study investigated the genetic structure and spread of kdr mutations in Ae. aegypti populations across six localities in Amapá State, Brazil, within the Amazonian Forest. Using 12 microsatellite loci and qPCR methods, we assessed genetic structure and identified three common kdr mutations (V410L, V1016I, and F1534C). High prevalence of kdr alleles was observed in all localities, indicating widespread distribution in Amapá State. Microsatellite analysis revealed differentiation among mosquito populations, dividing them into two distinct clusters supported by Bayesian and DAPC analyses. Oiapoque, located along the northern border with French Guiana, exhibited the highest kdr frequencies and genetic differentiation compared to other localities. Our findings suggest genetic structure in Ae. aegypti populations in Amapá State, with some passive gene flow between clusters. The study underscores the need for continuous surveillance of Ae. aegypti populations to monitor the spread of insecticide resistance and inform effective vector control strategies.
Effects of NMDA-receptor blockade by ketamine on mentalizing and its neural correlates in humans: a randomized control trial
Authors: Wasserthal Sven , Lehmann Mirko , Neumann Claudia , Delis Achilles , Philipsen Alexandra , Hurlemann René , Ettinger Ulrich , Schultz Johannes
Published: October 2023

Schizophrenia is associated with various deficits in social cognition that remain relatively unaltered by antipsychotic treatment. While faulty glutamate signaling has been associated with general cognitive deficits as well as negative symptoms of schizophrenia, no direct link between manipulation of glutamate signaling and deficits in mentalizing has been demonstrated thus far. Here, we experimentally investigated whether ketamine, an uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist known to induce psychotomimetic effects, influences mentalizing and its neural correlates. In a randomized, placebo-controlled between-subjects experiment, we intravenously administered ketamine or placebo to healthy participants performing a video-based social cognition task during functional magnetic resonance imaging. Psychotomimetic effects of ketamine were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Compared to placebo, ketamine led to significantly more psychotic symptoms and reduced mentalizing performance (more “no mentalizing” errors). Ketamine also influenced blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) response during mentalizing compared to placebo. Specifically, ketamine increased BOLD in right posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) and increased connectivity between pSTS and anterior precuneus. These increases may reflect a dysfunctional shift of attention induced by ketamine that leads to mentalizing deficits. Our findings show that a psychotomimetic dose of ketamine impairs mentalizing and influences its neural correlates, a result compatible with the notion that deficient glutamate signaling may contribute to deficits in mentalizing in schizophrenia. The results also support efforts to seek novel psychopharmacological treatments for psychosis and schizophrenia targeting glutamatergic transmission.
Correlation of procalcitonin and c-reactive protein levels with pathogen distribution and infection localization in urinary tract infections
Authors: Shi Jing , Zhan Zhi-Song , Zheng Zu-Shun , Zhu Xue-Xia , Zhou Xin-Yi , Zhang Shi-Yan
Published: October 2023

Aimed to explore the relationships between infection localization, bacterial species, and procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in urinary tract infections (UTIs). A retrospective study included 314 UTI hospitalized patients divided into two groups (268 with lower UTI, 46 with upper UTI) in a tertiary care hospital. PCT and CRP were performed. Bacterial isolates were identified using standard microbiological techniques, and statistical analyses were performed to assess associations between infection localization, bacterial species, PCT, and CRP levels. Age and gender showed no significant differences between the lower and upper UTIs. Escherichia coli dominated as the leading UTI pathogen. A positive correlation (r = 0.646, P < 0.001) between PCT and CRP levels was found. The subgroup with ureteritis in the upper UTI category exhibited the highest PCT and CRP levels. PCT and CRP exhibited favorable diagnostic potential in predicting upper UTIs, with AUCs of 0.644 and 0.629, respectively. The optimal cutoff values were 0.21 ng/mL for PCT and 60.77 mg/L for CRP. Sensitivities were 69.03% and 77.99%, while specificities were 56.52% and 47.83%, respectively. E. coli emerged as the predominant bacterium in UTIs. PCT and CRP demonstrated moderate diagnostic efficacy in distinguishing between upper and lower UTIs. Notably, PCT and CRP exhibited enhanced utility in identifying ureteritis.
Analysis and improvement of human-induced vibration comfort of articulated steel pedestrian bridges
Authors: Yang Shuo , Ning Xiaojun
Published: October 2023

The effect of different pedestrian densities (0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 4.6 persons/m2) on a pedestrian bridge is studied, the comfort level is evaluated according to the acceleration peak, and the most sensitive part of the acceleration response employs tuned mass dampers (TMDs) for vibration control. The study shows that the bearing capacity level of the pedestrian bridge with articulated piers meets the standard. Compared with a pier rigid connection system, the structural dynamic characteristics of pier articulation do not change much, and the vertical frequency and peak acceleration in the span are slightly smaller. The comfort evaluation results of the bridge with articulated piers are the same as those of the bridge with a rigid pier. The TMD setting can effectively reduce the human-induced vibration time response, the vibration reduction efficiency can reach 52%, and the comfort level changes from CL2 to CL1 after vibration reduction.
Clinical significance of urinary exosomal microRNAs in patients with IgA nephropathy
Authors: Yoon Soo-Young , Kim Jin Sug , Jung Su Woong , Kim Yang Gyun , Hwang Hyeon Seok , Moon Ju-Young , Lee Sang-Ho , Seo Jung-Woo , Seok Junhee , Tae Donghyun , Jeong Kyunghwan
Published: October 2023

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. The clinical relevance of 11 urinary exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) was evaluated in patients with IgAN. From January 2009 to November 2018, IgAN (n = 93), disease control (n = 11), and normal control (n = 19) groups were enrolled. We evaluated the expression levels of urinary exosomal miRNAs at the baseline and their relationship with clinical and pathologic features. This study aimed to discriminate statistically powerful urinary exosomal miRNAs for the prognosis of IgAN. Urinary miRNA levels of miR-16-5p, miR-29a-3p, miR-124-3p, miR-126-3p, miR-199a-3p, miR-199b-5p, and miR-335-3p showed significant correlation with both estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (uPCR). In univariate regression analysis, age, body mass index, hypertension, eGFR, uPCR, Oxford classification E, and three miRNAs (miR-16-5p, miR-199a-3p, and miR-335-3p) were associated with disease progression in patients with IgAN. The area under the curve (AUC) of miR-199a-3p was high enough (0.749) without any other clinical or pathologic factors, considering that the AUC of the International IgAN Risk Prediction Tool was 0.853. Urinary exosomal miRNAs may serve as alternative prognostic biomarkers of IgAN with further research.
Implementation of charged microdroplet-based derivatization of bile acids on a cyclic ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry platform
Authors: Rāciņš Olavs , Nagy Gabe
Published: October 2023

Herein, we report the first implementation of charged microdroplet-based derivatization on a commercially-available cyclic ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry platform.
Unusual topological RNA G-quadruplex formed by an RNA duplex: implications for the dimerization of SARS-CoV-2 RNA
Authors: Wang Shiyu , Song Yi , He Zhiyong , Saneyoshi Hisao , Iwakiri Rie , Xu Pengyu , Zhao Chuanqi , Qu Xiaogang , Xu Yan
Published: October 2023

Two RNA sequences form a duplex and self-associate to form a dimeric G-quadruplex in SARS-COV-2 RNA.
Brønsted acid-catalyzed annulation reaction of hydroxamic acids: synthesis of cyclopentane-fused isoxazolidines and their benzilic amide rearrangement
Authors: Mondal Swati Lekha , Bhajammanavar Vinod , Ramakrishna Isai , Baidya Mahiuddin
Published: October 2023

Readily available hydroxamic acids were used to access challenging nitrones in the presence of H3PO4 as a Brønsted acid catalyst and engaged in intramolecular (3+2) annulation to make valuable cyclopentane-fused isoxazolidines with high yields and excellent diastereoselectivity.
Transparent PEDOT counter electrodes for bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells using a cobalt complex mediator
Authors: Li Yiming , Wang Jing , Wang Hao , Di Zhichao , Liu Mingyan , Zong Xueping , Li Chunsheng , Sun Yan , Liang Mao , Sun Zhe
Published: October 2023

High transparent counter electrode based on poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) aggregates was prepared for fabricating bifacial DSCs, which yields a higher bifaciality of 0.92.
Impact of subtle intermolecular interactions on the structure and dynamics of multicomponent supramolecular polymers
Authors: Hanssen Job N. S. , Dhiman Shikha
Published: October 2023

We propose a monomer-dopant approach to investigate how subtle variations in monomers, located away from the self-assembling core, influence the structural and dynamic behaviour of multicomponent supramolecular polymers.
Phosphine-catalyzed formal Buchner [6+1] annulation: de novo construction of cycloheptatrienes
Authors: Lai Jingxiong , Huang You
Published: October 2023

A new method is developed to construct cycloheptatriene derivatives efficiently by phosphine-catalyzed formal Buchner [6+1] annulation of a newly designed allenoate and 4-oxo-4H-chromene-3-carbaldehydes.
Advances in protein solubility and thermodynamics: quantification, instrumentation, and perspectives
Authors: Ferreira Joana , Castro Filipa
Published: October 2023

Critical review of the advanced experimental approaches to measure the main thermodynamic parameters and to guide establishing the necessary conditions to perform a protein crystallization assay: methodologies, set-ups, and future directions.
Construction of highly active FeN4@Fex(OH)y cluster composite sites for the oxygen reduction reaction and the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhang Yulin , Chen Xihao , Gan Siyu , Hu Yu , Tian Yi , Wang Shiyu , Chen Long , Xiao Junping , Wang Ning
Published: October 2023

Seeking cost-effective and earth-abundant electrocatalysts with excellent activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in zinc–air batteries (ZABs) is critically important.
Competitive dynamics of E2 and SN2 reaction driven by collision energy and leaving group
Authors: Zhao Siwei , Fu Gang , Zhen Wenqing , Wang Hongyi , Yang Li , Zhang Jiaxu
Published: October 2023

The contribution for E2 drops with increased Ecoll, and changing the leaving group drastically suppresses the indirect events.
Threshold photoelectron spectroscopy and dissociative photoionization of benzonitrile
Authors: Kamer Jerry , Schleier Domenik , Donker Merel , Hemberger Patrick , Bodi Andras , Bouwman Jordy
Published: October 2023

The seven parallel dissociative ionization channels of benzonitrile yield highly stable fragment ions with commensurate abundance, underlining the potential role of the benzonitrile cation as hub species in the interstellar medium.
Transition in electronic and magnetic properties of transition metal embedded semimetallic B-graphyne
Authors: Li Han-Bing , Shao Zhi-Gang , Wang Cang-Long , Yang Lei
Published: October 2023

Semi-metallic B-graphyne can modulate its electronic and magnetic properties by embedding 3d transition metals, which has great potential for applications in spintronic devices.
Biomimetic submicromotor with NIR light triggered motion and cargo release inspired by cuttlefish
Authors: Feng Jiameng , Zou Junjie , Li Xiaoyu , Du Xin
Published: October 2023

Biomimetic design is very helpful and significant for the smart construction of micro/nanomotors with artificial intelligence.
Ruptured organosilica nanocapsules immobilized acetylcholinesterase coupled with MnO2 nanozyme for screening inhibitors from Inula macrophylla
Authors: Liu Jia , Ha Wei , Alibekovna Eshbakova Komila , Ma Rui , Shi Yan-Ping
Published: October 2023

A platform of RONs immobilized AChE coupled with an MnO2-OPD colorimetric assay was established for screening inhibitors.
New polymers based on thieno[3,2-b]pyrrole derivatives and their electrochemical properties
Authors: Miftakhov Mansur S. , Torosyan Seda A. , Gimalova Fanuza A. , Khursan Sergey L. , Nuriakhmetova Zoya F. , Shchurik Elena V. , Kraevaya Olga. A. , Shestakov Aleksandr F. , Troshin Pavel A.
Published: October 2023

The results of the oxidative polymerization of methylene-separated bis-thieno[3,2-b]pyrroles and thieno[3,2-b]pyrrolopyrroles in the reaction with NBS and Br2 with the formation of insoluble polymeric materials are discussed, and the electrochemical properties of the polymers are studied.
Programmable synthesis of difluorinated hydrocarbons from alkenes through a photocatalytic linchpin strategy
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Qi , Wang Cheng-Qiang , Li Long-Ji , Piper Jared L. , Peng Zhi-Hui , Ma Jun-An , Zhang Fa-Guang , Wu Jie
Published: October 2023

We have devised a general and versatile approach for the synthesis of diverse difluorinated alkanes and alkenes by utilizing readily accessible ClCF2SO2Na as a practical difluoromethylene linchpin.
The future of lectures: ten top tips for engaging and inclusive teaching
Authors: Yhnell Emma , Francis Nigel J.
Published: October 2023

Dr Emma Yhnell of Cardiff University is the inaugural winner of the 2024 Teaching Excellence Award – Early Career, recognizing individual excellence, commitment to continuing professional development, commitment to students and colleagues, and sustained and continued impact. Emma advocates championing excellence in teaching and learning and demonstrating that academics can be engaging, creative and enthusing whilst still maintaining academic credibility. Emma wants to use winning this prestigious award to encourage others to be braver and bolder in their teaching and to try out teaching innovations. Whether incorporating a prop, trying some interactive polling or even playing some music, she actively encourages other educators to ‘give it a go’, as it will benefit learners and help you develop as an educator too.
Comparative genomics hints at dispensability of multiple essential genes in two Escherichia coli L-form strains
Authors: Liu Yunfei , Zhang Yueyue , Kang Chen , Tian Di , Lu Hui , Xu Boying , Xia Yang , Kashiwagi Akiko , Westermann Martin , Hoischen Christian , Xu Jian , Yomo Tetsuya
Published: October 2023

Despite the critical role of bacterial cell walls in maintaining cell shapes, certain environmental stressors can induce the transition of many bacterial species into a wall-deficient state called L-form. Long-term induced Escherichia coli L-forms lose their rod shape and usually hold significant mutations that affect cell division and growth. Besides this, the genetic background of L-form bacteria is still poorly understood. In the present study, the genomes of two stable L-form strains of E. coli (NC-7 and LWF+) were sequenced and their gene mutation status was determined and compared with their parental strains. Comparative genomic analysis between two L-forms reveals both unique adaptions and common mutated genes, many of which belong to essential gene categories not involved in cell wall biosynthesis, indicating that L-form genetic adaptation impacts crucial metabolic pathways. Missense variants from L-forms and Lenski’s long-term evolution experiment (LTEE) were analyzed in parallel using an optimized DeepSequence pipeline to investigate predicted mutation effects (α) on protein functions. We report that the two L-form strains analyzed display a frequency of 6–10% (0% for LTEE) in mutated essential genes where the missense variants have substantial impact on protein functions (α<0.5). This indicates the emergence of different survival strategies in L-forms through changes in essential genes during adaptions to cell wall deficiency. Collectively, our results shed light on the detailed genetic background of two E. coli L-forms and pave the way for further investigations of the gene functions in L-form bacterial models.
Improving the electrical stability of a‐IGZO TFT through gate surround structures
Authors: Yu Eun Seong , Kim Seung Gyun , Moon Seung Jae , Bae Byung Seong
Published: October 2023

This paper delves into a structural modification of dual‐gate oxide thin film transistor (TFT). Diverging from the conventional dual‐gate TFT structure, the authors’ approach connects the bottom and top gate electrodes, effectively enveloping all four sides of the a‐IGZO channel. This shielding configuration ensures stable operation, even under light illumination. Moreover, capitalizing on the stability under light conditions, the authors observed a remarkable threefold improvement in the mobility of the fabricated TFT with this proposed structure, resulting in a substantial 156% increase in current. Furthermore, in the negative bias illumination stress test, the proposed TFT exhibited minimal fluctuations when compared to its single‐gate counterpart, further underscoring its exceptional and robust performance.
Second-tier agglomerations of Ural region: The capacity for creative reindustrialization
Authors: Bugrov Konstantin
Published: October 2023

The author deals with the concept of second-tier agglomerations in Sverdlovsk and Chelyabinsk regions of Russia and their capacity as centers of creative re-industrialization. There are six such agglomerations in the Urals (Greater Serov, Greater Tagil, Kamensk-Uralskii, Greater Kyshtym, Greater Miass, and Magnitogorsk), which differ in the number of population, economic sustainability, and transport accessibility from the leading cities of region, that is, Ekaterinburg and Chelyabinsk agglomerations. While the agglomerations mentioned are typically comprised of monotowns and thus depend upon the industrial sector (mining, metallurgy, machine-building, nuclear chemistry), they are capable of developing cultural industries; a necessary precondition in the ability to attract extra consumers from the largest cities. Thus, transport accessibility is the decisive factor in determining the strategies for making up creative and cultural industries in particular agglomerations. The author concludes that, even though Greater Kyshtym possesses the optimal transport accessibility, a set of environmental and legal issues will prevent it from developing rapidly. The transport accessibility and economic potential of Greater Miass and Kamensk-Uralskii make these second-tier cities suitable for launching a program of creative reindustrialization.
Smart cities as centers of interregional cooperation
Authors: Kahramanoglu Ali , Isaev Sergey , Glezman Ludmila , Fedoseeva Svetlana
Published: October 2023

In modern science, the study of digitalization and digital transformation in spatial socio-economic systems, among which urban and regional agglomerations are the most complex ones, plays a special role. The paper considers scientific publications devoted to the problems of smart city development. Russian practices of smart city development are investigated in comparison with the world leaders in urban space digitalization. Based on the analysis of the achieved level of digital transformation of urban space and development of “smart city” technologies in the cities-leaders in the development of “smart” technologies in the subjects of the Russian Federation in 2021, the issue of scaling promising technologies and successful practices from urban to the level of regional space is being considered. The prospects of integrating the smart city as a point of digital development of regional space into the system of inter-regional interactions of digital regions are disclosed.
The role of smart cities in countering health threats: A review of practices
Authors: Kalpaeva Zarina , Rodionova Elena , Dominiak Vladislav
Published: October 2023

Modern cities face multiple global challenges. Despite the diversity of threats to sustainable development, public health is a priority. The authors will show, by analysing urban practices, how the integration of digital technologies, monitoring systems and data analysis can help to address the issues of disease control, environmental monitoring, access to urban medical infrastructure and health services. The article emphasises that the success of smart cities in public health is highly dependent on community engagement. Smart cities offer a set of innovative, flexible and scalable solutions that can significantly improve the situation in this area. The application of big data technologies, artificial intelligence, sensor networks and other advanced tools allows for creation of efficient mechanisms for monitoring, prediction and counteracting threats to public health. The provided conclusions and recommendations can serve as a basis for the development of sustainable development strategies for smart cities aimed at long-term improvement of people’s quality of life.
Humic compounds in marine ecosystems - Ecological importance in transitional Mediterranean zones
Authors: Giakoumatos Stephanos D.V.
Published: October 2023

By using the general term ‘humic substances’ (HS), a vast category is implied of heterogeneous organic compounds that are naturally occurred, formed under certain circumstances, bearing yellow to black colour. There are distinguishable fractions of the (HS) categorized e.g. according to hydrophilicity. Humic acids (HA), comprise the soluble fraction of (HS) at high pH values whereas fulvic acids (FA) represent the soluble fraction of (HS) under all pH conditions. The humin represents the unclassified, non-soluble fraction of organic material. (HS) are separating into two well distinctive categories i.e. allochthonous & autochthonous indicating a different origin. (HS) affect bioavailability of transition metal ions including Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn due to (HS) chelating properties and high affinity towards those metals. (ΗΑ) stimulate biodegradation and favors removal of various pollutants serving as bioremediation agents. Organic compounds leached from plastic debris into the aquatic phase, become part of the marine dissolved organic carbon (DOC) pool. Humic part characteristics are tightly bound to the anthropogenic impacts stressed over the shoreline and contribute to diagenetic processing of the marine seabed. The scope of the present essay was to outline the multi-functionality of humic substances in aquatic ecosystems with the given emphasis on the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Digital Art, Sustainability and Design Thinking: Study of a Case in Higher Education
Authors: Cruz Sara , Vieira Célia , Bidarra José
Published: October 2023

After a brief overview of the relationship between art and sustainability, in this paper we present a practical case that illustrates the potential of using design thinking in raising awareness towards environmental sustainability in the context of Higher Education. We describe the phases in the application of design thinking by a group of students and evaluate the impact of this procedure on their vision regarding the relationship between art and nature, and their motivation to find artistic solutions with an impact on society.
Cognitive processes of the environmental perception: A methodological approach to the semantic aesthetics of open-air archaeological contexts
Authors: Micheli Anna , Andrianou Alexandra-Aikaterini
Published: October 2023

The article presents an on-going methodological framework for understanding aesthetic experience, with specific reference to the semantic semiotics of the natural landscape and open-air archaeological contexts. The approach involves two broad perspectives: First, a socio-psychological which refers to the “aesthetic enjoinment” (a kind of pleasure) of the cultural visitors and which is approached from the point of view of socio-cultural experiences that are revived aesthetically and secondly, a structural – functional approach concerning the mechanisms which activate the cognitive processes of the environmental perception. The aim of this research is to ascertain the semiotic processes by examining the naturalized and phenomenological dimensions of the environmental space which are activated in the simple viewing of open-air antiquities.
Review of personal environmental indicators
Authors: Gareiou Zoe , Gizani Nectaria , Laskari Iro , Mavromati Irene , Zervas Efthimios
Published: October 2023

Indicators are used in almost every scientific field to quantify and/or record and/or follow the evolution of a specific parameter. Environmental indicators are related to the environment quality and are specifically used to monitor the quality of the environment and to measure the environmental performance. They can be categorized into specific, composite and personal environmental indicators. A review of the personal environmental indicators used in the literature are presented here. Personal environmental indicators include indicators related to the attitudes and behaviours of citizens towards environmental issues. The main personal environmental indicators reported in the literature are: the New Environmental Paradigm Scale, the Environmental Attitude Inventory, the General Ecological Behavior Scale, the Motivation Toward the Environment Scale, the Connectedness to Nature Scale, the Ecocentric Scale and the Anthropocentric Scale.
Uncovering the circular economy potential of industrial waste in Sri Lanka (case study from textile industrial - fabric waste)
Authors: Edirisinghe Lakmini Malika , Alwis Ajith , Wijayasundara Mayuri
Published: October 2023

A comprehensive survey was undertaken to examine the production of fabric waste in the apparel manufacturing sector of Sri Lanka. The primary objective was to assess the composition, quantities, and potential economic value of the fabric waste generated within this sector. This investigation involved 120 carefully selected industries, and data collection was facilitated through a structured questionnaire. Additionally, on-site visits were conducted at random to verify the provided data. The total amount of fabric waste generated by these industries in 2022 was determined to be 28,745.3 tons, with the overall production reaching 288,456.6 tons. This waste predominantly consisted of fabric leftovers, accounting for approximately 88.3% of the total, while the remaining portion comprised yarn leftovers. The fabric leftovers were further categorized based on their material composition, with polyester accounting for 24.5%, nylon 25%, cotton 20%, and mixed material 30.5%. The prevalent methods employed for managing fabric waste were recycling (35.5%), reuse (5%), co-processing (35%), incineration (10.5%), open dumping (12%), and other methods (2%). The findings of this study reveal that around 60% of the fabric waste could be incorporated back into the material cycle with an estimated economic value of approximately USD 12.74 at present.
Environmental design for SHAFE approach
Authors: Attaianese Erminia , Perillo Mariangela
Published: October 2023

TheWorld report on ageing and healthhighlighted the need to ensure age-friendly environments to foster active and healthy ageing because, as theWorld Health Organizationhas estimated, the number of people over 60 is set to double by 2050. Recently, SHAFE (Smart, Healthy, Age-Friendly Environments) has been proposed as a design approach to face the challenge of ageing. SHAFE model is focused on two goals: the promotion of smart and inclusive solutions to improve the independent life throughout the life course, regardless of age, gender, disabilities, cultural differences and personal choices; the optimization of social and physical environments, supported by digital tools and services. Nevertheless, studies on how to apply integrated principles of SHAFE to architectural design are still lacking, even if the interdisciplinary network NET4Age-Friendly is the most recent application of SHAFE model and aims to implement its practice and deployment. Based on a literature review, the paper discusses the contribution of environmental design for improving SHAFE approach on architecture, to build living spaces really responding to the changing needs of people from the ageing in place to the long-life approach.
Hsa_circ_0080608 Attenuates Lung Cancer Progression by Functioning as a Competitive Endogenous RNA to Regulate the miR-661/ADRA1A Pathway
Authors: Ren Chengbo , Cui Ling , Li Ruibiao , Song Xiao , Li Jinqiu , Xi Qiang , Zhang Zhilin , Zhao Lixia
Published: October 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) participate in the progression of human cancers and have been broadly elucidated. Here, we aimed to elucidate the roles and functional mechanisms of hsa_circ_0080608 (circ_0080608) in lung cancer. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was performed to assess the mRNA expression levels of circ_0080608, miR-661, and adrenoceptor alpha 1A (ADRA1A). Western blotting was performed to measure ADRA1A protein levels. CCK-8, colony formation, and Transwell assays were performed to determine the effect of circ_0080608 on cell proliferation and migration. Animal models were used to assess how circ_0080608 influences tumor progression in vivo. The binding relationships of miR-661’s with circ_0080608 and ADRA1A was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter and RIP assays. Circ_0080608 exhibited relatively low expression in lung cancer samples and cells. Lung cancer cells overexpressing circ_0080608 exhibited reduced migratory and proliferative abilities. Additionally, circ_0080608 binds to miR-661 and operates as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) and shares a miR-661 binding site with the 3’ UTR of ADRA1A. Furthermore, circ_0080608 inversely regulates miR-661 expression, consequently restraining the aggressive behavior of lung cancer cells. Lung cancer cells overexpressing ADRA1A also exhibit repressed migratory and proliferative abilities. However, reintroduction of miR-661 led to a decline in ADRA1A expression, thereby attenuating the functional effects of ADRA1A. Circ_0080608 impedes lung cancer progression by regulating the miR-661/ADRA1A pathway. Our findings provide new insights into the progression of lung cancer.
Orientational order parameter and mean square displacement of solid heavy nitrogen in the low-temperature phase. Experimental data
Authors: Hurova D. E. , Erenburg A. I. , Aksenova N. A. , Galtsov N. N. , Zinoviev P. V.
Published: October 2023

This work presents the results of the analysis of the temperature dependence of the x-ray reflection intensity from solid heavy nitrogen in the ordered phase. The temperature dependence of the behavior of the orientational order parameter and mean square displacement of 15N2 molecules obtained from x-ray data is plotted. Based on the dependencies obtained, the orientational order parameter was determined at 0 K, which is 12% higher than the orientational order parameter obtained in theoretical works. It was found that the heavy nitrogen molecule “freely” rotates in the crystal at temperatures above 45 K.