bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circular Economy Integration in Smart Grids: A Nexus for Sustainability
Authors: Reindl Katharina , Dalhammar Carl , Brodén Emma
Published: May 2024

The increased electrification of society and the development of smart grids are often seen as central in the transition towards a more sustainable and secure energy system and necessary to address the challenges of increasing energy demand and limited resources. There are many visions and ideas on what a smart grid is or could be. While most research related to environmental impacts on the smart grid focuses on the energy and climate implications, there is a growing interest in looking into material aspects and resource use, i.e., the Circular Economy (CE) dimensions of the grid. It is increasingly understood that the various technologies in the grid, such as grid infrastructure and electric vehicles, will require massive amounts of natural resources. This research explores how smart grids can integrate CE considerations and the current state of knowledge related to CE issues in smart grid discussions in Sweden. The main methods employed were a literature review and semi-structured interviews with 19 stakeholders. The results show that limited literature deals directly with how CE issues can be integrated with smart grid development. The interviews show that various stakeholders have started to discuss these issues, but the discussion is still in its infancy for most of them. The interviewees also pointed to several barriers to developing a more “circular” grid, such as regulatory frameworks, network maintenance, financing, and cost considerations.
Variational autoencoder-based techniques for a streamlined cross-topology modeling and optimization workflow in electrical drives
Authors: Benkert Marius , Heroth Michael , Herrler Rainer , Gregorová Magda , Schmid Helmut C.
Published: May 2024

The generation and optimization of simulation data for electrical machines remain challenging, largely due to the complexities of magneto-static finite element analysis. Traditional methodologies are not only resource-intensive, but also time-consuming. Deep learning models can be used to shortcut these calculations. However, challenges arise when considering the unique parameter sets specific to each machine topology. Building on two recent studies (Parekh et al. in IEEE Trans. Magn. 58(9):1–4, 2022; Parekh et al., Deep learning based meta-modeling for multi-objective technology optimization of electrical machines, 2023, arXiv:2306.09087), that utilized a variational autoencoder to cohesively map diverse topologies into a singular latent space for subsequent optimization, this paper proposes a refined architecture and optimization workflow. Our modifications aim to streamline and enhance the robustness of both the training and optimization processes, and compare the results with the variational autoencoder architecture proposed recently.
Thermogravimetric pyrolysis investigation of pistachio shell for its potential of thermal properties, kinetics and thermodynamics
Authors: Kumar V. Kavan , Hallad Sachin C. , Panwar N. L.
Published: May 2024

In order to design and optimize thermochemical systems for the production of bioenergy understanding the energy capacity of the pistachio shell and its kinetics of degradation is crucial. The Thermogravimetric analysis at different heating rates of biomass was studied along with thermodynamic study, primary characterizations like the composition of biomass, heating value and a reaction mechanism-assisted kinetic model. Nitrogen gas flow rate is used for thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which is performed at 10, 15, 20 and 30 ℃/min different heating rates from room temperature to 900 ℃. The output also shows that maximal degradation took place between 180 and 430 °C. The various iso-conversional models, such as Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), Starink and Friedman, are used to calculate kinetic and thermodynamic parameters, which give the average value of activation energy as 172.29, 170.47, 169.79, and 193.25 kJ/mol. The average values of Gibbs free energy for the FWO, KAS, Starink and Friedman techniques were found to be 176.49, 1176.54, 176.29, and 175.78 kJ/mol, respectively.

Graphical Abstract
Structural Characterization of the Taltal Segment in Northern Chile Between 22°S and 26°S Using Local Earthquake Tomography
Authors: Leon‐Rios Sergio , Reyes‐Wagner Valentina , Calle‐Gardella Daniela , Rietbrock Andreas , Roecker Steven , Maksymowicz Andrei , Comte Diana
Published: May 2024

Recordings of earthquakes by a temporary deployment of 84 short period seismometers in northern Chile were used to derive regional 3D seismic velocity models for the Taltal segment. We used the Regressive ESTimator (REST) package for event detection and automatic onset estimation of P‐ and S‐wave arrival times to create an earthquake catalog with 23,985 hypocenters. We followed standard acceptability criteria (i.e., azimuthal gap and residual cutoff) to create a high‐quality data set and inverted for 3D Vp, Vs and Vp/Vs models using local earthquake tomography. Plots of hypocenters from the catalog, comprising 16,349 earthquakes, reveal active structures in the upper crust, dip changes along the slab and fracturing within the oceanic crust. Moreover, the wavespeed models illuminate anomalies in both the Nazca and South American plates that correlate with the observed seismicity distribution, including variations from low (1.75) to high (>1.80) Vp/Vs near the Atacama fault system on the coastline and the Domeyko Fault System in the forearc. The seismic velocity models also provide evidence for fluid circulation caused by the subducting Taltal ridge on the coast and partial melting feeding a volcanic complex close to the Andes. Finally, the observed low Vp/Vs ratios (∼1.75) are associated with copper mining operations in the area, suggesting that this kind of imaging can be used to characterize the distribution of potential ore deposits in the area.
Unraveling the Mechanism of the Holes in the Blanket of Fog Over the Indo‐Gangetic Plains: Are They Driven by Urban Heat Islands or Aerosol?
Authors: Anurose T. J. , Jayakumar A. , Sandhya M. , Gordon H. , Aryasree S. , Mohandas S. , Bhati S. , Prasad V. S.
Published: May 2024

Fog holes were reported over cities of the Indo‐Gangetic plains of India, which were attributed to the urban heat island (UHI) effect. The present study reports the observational evidence of fog holes over rural area using satellite and ground observations. Delayed onset and early dissipation of fog is observed over the holes. Numerical simulations demonstrate that aerosol‐radiation interaction (ARI) leads to fog holes over both urban and rural regions. The anthropogenic aerosols and associated ARI dominate the UHI effect over the urban fog holes, while the aerosol absorption due to ARI mainly controls the rural fog holes. Turning off aerosol absorption causes ∼ 2 hours delay in the fog dissipation over urban area, whereas it yields persistent fog over rural area under saturated environment. An enhancement of soluble Aitken black carbon over the fog holes indicates the importance of aging process during fog dissipation.
Bioremediation of Crude Oil Contaminated Saline Soil Using a Bacterial Consortium and Different Carriers
Authors: Valizadeh Sara , Enayatizamir Naeimeh , Nadian Ghomsheh Habiballah , Motamedi Hossein , Khalili Moghadam Bijan , Bogard Matthew
Published: May 2024

Bioremediation of crude‐oil‐contaminated soils is critical to supporting soil ecosystem health and functioning. Here, to explore the potential for different remediation strategies to restore soil microbial functioning and enhance remediation, three strains of bacteria, Bacillus toyonensis, Bacillus sp. and Bacillus cereus, were inoculated to saline, crude oil‐contaminated soil collected from Azadegan Oil Field, Iran. Bacteria were added using different carriers, including corn biochar, humic acid, chitosan and kaolin, and free bacteria as a control. Changes in soil metal concentrations and residual crude oil were determined after 60 days of incubation. Soil respiration, microbial biomass, and enzyme (dehydrogenase and catalase) activities were measured. The carriers accompanying a bacterial consortium were more efficient than free bacteria in removing crude oil and heavy metals from soil, and they performed better in removing n‐alkanes with carbon chains of C12–24. The oil removal rate and metal immobilization efficiencies were greatest in soils with chitosan‐bacteria treatment, with removal of crude oil, Al, Pb, Sr, and Cr (93%, 63%, 37%, 54%, and 15%, respectively) greater than for soils with free cells without treatment (61%, 54%, 9%, 50%, and 3%, respectively). Soil electrical conductivity decreased after application of bacterial mixtures with and without carriers. The inoculation of bacteria and application of soil amendments increased soil microbial biomass carbon and the activity of catalase and dehydrogenase. Overall, our results indicated the greatest potential remediation was achieved by applying immobilized microorganisms in chitosan to accelerate the biodegradation of crude oil and the removal of heavy metals.
Design and Characterization of the Engineering Model of the Spectrometer Onboard LuSEE‐Night
Authors: Tamura Emi , Fried Jack , Herrmann Sven , O’Connor Paul , Raguzin Eric J. , Slosar Anže
Published: May 2024

The Lunar Surface Electromagnetics Explorer—Night, LuSEE‐Night, is a low‐frequency radio astronomy experiment that will explore the cosmic Dark Ages signal on the radio‐quiet farside of the Moon. The LuSEE‐Night carries a radio frequency spectrometer consisting of a set of antennas, analog and digital processing electronics, and will be launched by NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services in 2025. The spectrometer is designed to observe the spectrum of the radio sky in the 0.5−50 MHz band. The engineering model (EM) of the four‐channel spectrometer has been developed. The EM has been characterized for linearity, gain, noise, and their temperature dependence, confirming that the EM meets all the requirements for LuSEE‐Night. Three mitigation techniques have been implemented and verified to suppress self‐induced electromagnetic interference. The flight model of the spectrometer is currently being developed and is scheduled to be shipped to the integration site in early 2024.
Rethinking the Susceptibility‐Based Strategy for Marine Cloud Brightening Climate Intervention: Experiment With CESM2 and Its Implications
Authors: Chen Chih‐Chieh , Richter Jadwiga H. , Lee Walker R. , MacMartin Douglas G. , Kravitz Ben
Published: May 2024

Previous modeling studies indicate that even though marine cloud brightening under a susceptibility‐based strategy is effective in reducing the global average surface temperature, it triggers a La Niña‐like sea‐surface temperature response with cooling mostly confined within lower latitudes. Here we explore a different cloud seeding strategy involving seeding of regions with low susceptibility, primarily over the ocean in midlatitudes during the winter. Simulations with the Community Earth System Model, version 2 reveal that because the regional forcing is weaker and more widespread, cooling is more evenly distributed over the globe. This new strategy also does not result in the La Niña‐like state seen in the other strategies.
Unveiling Unprecedented Methane Hotspots in China's Leading Coal Production Hub: A Satellite Mapping Revelation
Authors: Han Ge , Pei Zhipeng , Shi Tianqi , Mao Huiqin , Li Siwei , Mao Feiyue , Ma Xin , Zhang Xingying , Gong Wei
Published: May 2024

China is likely the world's largest anthropogenic source of methane emissions, with coal mine methane (CMM) being the predominant contributor. Here, we deploy 2 years of satellite observations to survey facility‐level CMM emitters in Shanxi, the most prolific coal mining province in China. A total of 138 detected episodic events at 82 facilities are estimated to emit 1.20 (+0.24/−0.20, 95% CI) million tons of methane per year (Mt CH4/yr) during 2021–2023, roughly equivalent to 4.2 times the integrated flux from the Permian plumes and four times of the integrated flux from the Four Corners plumes, two of the world's largest hotspots for oil and gas methane emissions. This work reveals the heavy‐tailed distribution characteristic of CMM emission sources for the first time, with 20% of emitters contributing approximately 50% of total emissions. Comparison with the Global Energy Monitor (GEM) inventory reveals that the GEM estimate is about 4.1 times our estimate.
F Region Neutral Wind and Electric Field Measured by SYISR and Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Ning , Yue Xinan , Cai Yihui , Wang Junyi , Li Mingyuan , Ding Feng , Ning Baiqi
Published: May 2024

Using experiments by Sanya (18.3°N, 109.6°E) Incoherent Scatter Radar (SYISR) during 22 days, we first obtained the line‐of‐sight ion velocity in multiple directions, further calculated three‐dimensional vector velocity through least squares fitting, and subsequently derived northward neutral wind and electric fields from 150 to 500 km based on the momentum equation. In order to verify the reliability of the derived northward neutral wind and electric field, we used NCAR‐TIEGCM and HWM for comparative analysis. They had a good consistency in terms of diurnal variation and direction. The SYISR vertical ExB velocity during the daytime is larger than that of TIEGCM, and the direction reverses occur after 20:00 for both TIEGCM and SYISR. We further compared our wind data with that of ICON satellite. They showed a positive correlation of ∼0.62. We also used the ∆H method to verify our eastward electric field. They showed a roughly linear dependency, although the correlation coefficient is not very high.
A bibliometric analysis of scientific literature in digital dentistry from low- and lower-middle income countries
Authors: Adnan Samira , Lal Abhishek , Naved Nighat , Umer Fahad
Published: May 2024

Objective

Bibliometric analysis and citation counts help to acknowledge influence of publications. The aim of this study was to conduct bibliometric and citation analysis of top-cited articles, from low- and lower-middle income countries, on use and application of digital technology in dentistry.

Methodology

A search strategy based on “Digital Dentistry”, “Low Income Countries”, and “Lower-Middle Income Countries” was used in October 2023 using Scopus database to retrieve articles relevant to digital dentistry, with citation count of 10 or more. From 44 included articles, bibliometric information was analyzed on SPSS version 23. Network analysis based on co-citations, keywords, and number of citations was conducted on VOS software (version 1.6.20).

Results

Most relevant articles were published in 2021 (n = 8), with 52.3% original articles, out of which 40.9% were in vitro studies. India had the highest number of articles (n = 24), with most publications in The Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society (n = 4), and in the domain of General Dentistry (n = 15, 34.1%). Co-authorship network analysis was not significant, but country-wise co-authorship analysis revealed India with the greatest link strength (4.0). Highest occurring keyword was 3D printing (link strength 5.0), and the citation analysis revealed Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry with the most number of published documents (3), having a citation count of 275. Bibliographic coupling for sources revealed Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society to have the highest link strength of 15.33.

Conclusion

This analysis uncovers interesting bibliometric and citation based information including key thematic trends, emphasizing crucial role of technologies like 3D printing, CAD/CAM, and CBCT in digital dentistry. The study underscores the imperative for increased original research efforts in low- and lower middle-income countries.
Timing and co-occurrence of symptoms prior to a diagnosis of light chain (AL) amyloidosis
Authors: Singh Ashima , Szabo Aniko , Lian Qinghua , Pezzin Liliana , Sparapani Rodney , D’Souza Anita
Published: May 2024

It is well-established that most patients with systemic light chain (AL) amyloidosis have multi-organ involvement and are often diagnosed after a lag period of increasing symptoms. We leverage electronic health record (EHR) data from the TriNetX research network to describe the incidence, timing, and co-occurrence of precursor conditions of interests in a cohort of AL amyloidosis patients identified between October 2015-December 2020. Nineteen precursor diagnoses of interest representing features of AL amyloidosis were identified using ICD codes up to 36 months prior to AL amyloidosis diagnosis. Among 1,401 patients with at least 36 months of EHR data prior to AL amyloidosis diagnosis, 46% were females, 16% were non-Hispanic Black, and 6% were Hispanic. The median age was 71 (range, 21–91) years. The median number of precursor diagnoses was 5 with dyspnea and fatigue being the most prevalent. The time from the first occurrence of a precursor to AL diagnosis ranged from 3.2 to 21.4 months. Analyses of pairwise co-occurrence of specific diagnoses indicated a high association (Cole’s coefficient >0.6) among the examined precursor diagnoses. These findings provide novel information about the timing and co-occurrence of key precursor conditions and could be used to develop algorithms for early identification of AL amyloidosis.
Selective targeting of IRAK1 attenuates low molecular weight hyaluronic acid-induced stemness and non-canonical STAT3 activation in epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Standing David , Dandawate Prasad , Gunewardena Sumedha , Covarrubias-Zambrano Obdulia , Roby Katherine F. , Khabele Dineo , Jewell Andrea , Tawfik Ossama , Bossmann Stefan H. , Godwin Andrew K. , Weir Scott J. , Jensen Roy A. , Anant Shrikant
Published: May 2024

Advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) survival rates are dishearteningly low, with ~25% surviving beyond 5 years. Evidence suggests that cancer stem cells contribute to acquired chemoresistance and tumor recurrence. Here, we show that IRAK1 is upregulated in EOC tissues, and enhanced expression correlates with poorer overall survival. Moreover, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which is abundant in malignant ascites from patients with advanced EOC, induced IRAK1 phosphorylation leading to STAT3 activation and enhanced spheroid formation. Knockdown of IRAK1 impaired tumor growth in peritoneal disease models, and impaired HA-induced spheroid growth and STAT3 phosphorylation. Finally, we determined that TCS2210, a known inducer of neuronal differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells, is a selective inhibitor of IRAK1. TCS2210 significantly inhibited EOC growth in vitro and in vivo both as monotherapy, and in combination with cisplatin. Collectively, these data demonstrate IRAK1 as a druggable target for EOC.
Neuronal autosis is Na+/K+-ATPase alpha 3-dependent and involved in hypoxic-ischemic neuronal death
Authors: Depierre Pauline , Ginet Vanessa , Truttmann Anita C. , Puyal Julien
Published: May 2024

Macroautophagy (hereafter called autophagy) is an essential physiological process of degradation of organelles and long-lived proteins. The discovery of autosis, a Na+/K+-ATPase (ATP1)-dependent type of autophagic cell death with specific morphological and biochemical features, has strongly contributed to the acceptance of a pro-death role of autophagy. However, the occurrence and relevance of autosis in neurons has never been clearly investigated, whereas we previously provided evidence that autophagy mechanisms could be involved in neuronal death in different in vitro and in vivo rodent models of hypoxia-ischemia (HI) and that morphological features of autosis were observed in dying neurons following rat perinatal cerebral HI. In the present study, we demonstrated that neuronal autosis could occur in primary cortical neurons using two different stimulations enhancing autophagy flux and neuronal death: a neurotoxic concentration of Tat-BECN1 (an autophagy-inducing peptide) and a hypoxic/excitotoxic stimulus (mimicking neuronal death induced by cerebral HI). Both stimulations induce autophagic neuronal death (dependent on canonical autophagic genes and independent on apoptotic, necroptotic or ferroptotic pathways) with all morphological and biochemical (ATP1a-dependent) features of autosis. However, we demonstrated that autosis is not dependent on the ubiquitous subunit ATP1a1 in neurons, as in dividing cell types, but on the neuronal specific ATP1a3 subunit. We also provided evidence that, in different in vitro and in vivo models where autosis is induced, ATP1a3-BECN1 interaction is increased and prevented by cardiac glycosides treatment. Interestingly, an increase in ATP1a3-BECN1 interaction is also detected in dying neurons in the autoptic brains of human newborns with severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Altogether, these results suggest that ATP1a3-BECN1-dependent autosis could play an important role in neuronal death in HI conditions, paving the way for the development of new neuroprotective strategies in hypoxic-ischemic conditions including in severe case of human HIE.
Synergizing habits and goals with variational Bayes
Authors: Han Dongqi , Doya Kenji , Li Dongsheng , Tani Jun
Published: May 2024

Behaving efficiently and flexibly is crucial for biological and artificial embodied agents. Behavior is generally classified into two types: habitual (fast but inflexible), and goal-directed (flexible but slow). While these two types of behaviors are typically considered to be managed by two distinct systems in the brain, recent studies have revealed a more sophisticated interplay between them. We introduce a theoretical framework using variational Bayesian theory, incorporating a Bayesian intention variable. Habitual behavior depends on the prior distribution of intention, computed from sensory context without goal-specification. In contrast, goal-directed behavior relies on the goal-conditioned posterior distribution of intention, inferred through variational free energy minimization. Assuming that an agent behaves using a synergized intention, our simulations in vision-based sensorimotor tasks explain the key properties of their interaction as observed in experiments. Our work suggests a fresh perspective on the neural mechanisms of habits and goals, shedding light on future research in decision making.
Lateral parabrachial FoxP2 neurons regulate respiratory responses to hypercapnia
Authors: Kaur Satvinder , Lynch Nicole , Sela Yaniv , Lima Janayna D. , Thomas Renner C. , Bandaru Sathyajit S. , Saper Clifford B.
Published: May 2024

About half of the neurons in the parabrachial nucleus (PB) that are activated by CO2 are located in the external lateral (el) subnucleus, express calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and cause forebrain arousal. We report here, in male mice, that most of the remaining CO2-responsive neurons in the adjacent central lateral (PBcl) and Kölliker-Fuse (KF) PB subnuclei express the transcription factor FoxP2 and many of these neurons project to respiratory sites in the medulla. PBclFoxP2 neurons show increased intracellular calcium during wakefulness and REM sleep and in response to elevated CO2 during NREM sleep. Photo-activation of the PBclFoxP2 neurons increases respiration, whereas either photo-inhibition of PBclFoxP2 or genetic deletion of PB/KFFoxP2 neurons reduces the respiratory response to CO2 stimulation without preventing awakening. Thus, augmenting the PBcl/KFFoxP2 response to CO2 in patients with sleep apnea in combination with inhibition of the PBelCGRP neurons may avoid hypoventilation and minimize EEG arousals.
Electrostatically controlled spin polarization in Graphene-CrSBr magnetic proximity heterostructures
Authors: Yang Boxuan , Bhujel Bibek , Chica Daniel G. , Telford Evan J. , Roy Xavier , Ibrahim Fatima , Chshiev Mairbek , Cosset-Chéneau Maxen , Wees Bart J. van
Published: May 2024

The magnetic proximity effect can induce a spin dependent exchange shift in the band structure of graphene. This produces a magnetization and a spin polarization of the electron/hole carriers in this material, paving the way for its use as an active component in spintronics devices. The electrostatic control of this spin polarization in graphene has however never been demonstrated so far. We show that interfacing graphene with the van der Waals antiferromagnet CrSBr results in an unconventional manifestation of the quantum Hall effect, which can be attributed to the presence of counterflowing spin-polarized edge channels originating from the spin-dependent exchange shift in graphene. We extract an exchange shift ranging from 27 – 32 meV, and show that it also produces an electrostatically tunable spin polarization of the electron/hole carriers in graphene ranging from − 50% to + 69% in the absence of a magnetic field. This proof of principle provides a starting point for the use of graphene as an electrostatically tunable source of spin current and could allow this system to generate a large magnetoresistance in gate tunable spin valve devices.
9-fold symmetry is not essential for centriole elongation and formation of new centriole-like structures
Authors: Panda Pallavi , Ladinsky Mark S. , Glover David M.
Published: May 2024

As daughter centrioles assemble during G2, they recruit conserved Ana3/RTTN followed by its partner Rcd4/PPP1R35. Together, this contributes to the subsequent recruitment of Ana1/CEP295, required for the centriole’s conversion to a centrosome. Here, we show that Rcd4/PPP1R35 is also required to maintain 9-fold centriole symmetry in theDrosophilamale germline; its absence causes microtubule triplets to disperse into a reduced number of doublet or singlet microtubules.rcd4-null mutant spermatocytes display skinny centrioles that elongate normally and localize centriolar components correctly. Mutant spermatocytes also have centrioles of normal girth that splay at their proximal ends when induced to elongate by Ana1 overexpression. Skinny and splayed spermatid centrioles can still recruit a proximal centriole-like (PCL) structure marking a capability to initiate features of centriole duplication in developing sperm. Thus, stable 9-fold symmetry of microtubule triplets is not essential for centriole growth, correct longitudinal association of centriole components, and aspects of centriole duplication.
Early aerial expedition photos reveal 85 years of glacier growth and stability in East Antarctica
Authors: Dømgaard Mads , Schomacker Anders , Isaksson Elisabeth , Millan Romain , Huiban Flora , Dehecq Amaury , Fleischer Amanda , Moholdt Geir , Andersen Jonas K. , Bjørk Anders A.
Published: May 2024

During the last few decades, several sectors in Antarctica have transitioned from glacial mass balance equilibrium to mass loss. In order to determine if recent trends exceed the scale of natural variability, long-term observations are vital. Here we explore the earliest, large-scale, aerial image archive of Antarctica to provide a unique record of 21 outlet glaciers along the coastline of East Antarctica since the 1930s. In Lützow-Holm Bay, our results reveal constant ice surface elevations since the 1930s, and indications of a weakening of local land-fast sea-ice conditions. Along the coastline of Kemp and Mac Robertson, and Ingrid Christensen Coast, we observe a long-term moderate thickening of the glaciers since 1937 and 1960 with periodic thinning and decadal variability. In all regions, the long-term changes in ice thickness correspond with the trends in snowfall since 1940. Our results demonstrate that the stability and growth in ice elevations observed in terrestrial basins over the past few decades are part of a trend spanning at least a century, and highlight the importance of understanding long-term changes when interpreting current dynamics.
Synergetic regulation of SEI mechanics and crystallographic orientation for stable lithium metal pouch cells
Authors: Zhang Yanhua , Qiao Rui , Nie Qiaona , Zhao Peiyu , Li Yong , Hong Yunfei , Chen Shengjie , Li Chao , Sun Baoyu , Fan Hao , Deng Junkai , Xie Jingying , Liu Feng , Song Jiangxuan
Published: May 2024

The advancement of Li-metal batteries is significantly impeded by the presence of unstable solid electrolyte interphase and Li dendrites upon cycling. Herein, we present an innovative approach to address these issues through the synergetic regulation of solid electrolyte interphase mechanics and Li crystallography using yttrium fluoride/polymethyl methacrylate composite layer. Specifically, we demonstrate the in-situ generation of Y-doped lithium metal through the reaction of composite layer with Li metal, which reduces the surface energy of the (200) plane, and tunes the preferential crystallographic orientation to (200) plane from conventional (110) plane during Li plating. These changes effectively passivate Li metal, thereby significantly reducing undesired side reactions between Li and electrolytes by 4 times. Meanwhile, the composite layer with suitable modulus (~1.02 GPa) can enhance mechanical stability and maintain structural stability of SEI. Consequently, a 4.2 Ah pouch cell with high energy density of 468 Wh kg−1 and remarkable capacity stability of 0.08% decay/cycle is demonstrated under harsh condition, such as high-areal-capacity cathode (6 mAh cm−2), lean electrolyte (1.98 g Ah−1), and high current density (3 mA cm−2). Our findings highlight the potential of reactive composite layer as a promising strategy for the development of stable Li-metal batteries.
A conserved Pol II elongator SPT6L mediates Pol V transcription to regulate RNA-directed DNA methylation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Yujuan , Shu Jie , Zhang Zhi , Ding Ning , Liu Jinyuan , Liu Jun , Cui Yuhai , Wang Changhu , Chen Chen
Published: May 2024

In plants, the plant-specific RNA polymerase V (Pol V) transcripts non-coding RNAs and provides a docking platform for the association of accessory proteins in the RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) pathway. Various components have been uncovered that are involved in the process of DNA methylation, but it is still not clear how the transcription of Pol V is regulated. Here, we report that the conserved RNA polymerase II (Pol II) elongator, SPT6L, binds to thousands of intergenic regions in a Pol II-independent manner. The intergenic enrichment of SPT6L, interestingly, co-occupies with the largest subunit of Pol V (NRPE1) and mutation of SPT6L leads to the reduction of DNA methylation but not Pol V enrichment. Furthermore, the association of SPT6L at Pol V loci is dependent on the Pol V associated factor, SPT5L, rather than the presence of Pol V, and the interaction between SPT6L and NRPE1 is compromised in spt5l. Finally, Pol V RIP-seq reveals that SPT6L is required to maintain the amount and length of Pol V transcripts. Our findings thus uncover the critical role of a Pol II conserved elongator in Pol V mediated DNA methylation and transcription, and shed light on the mutual regulation between Pol V and II in plants.
Enhancement of phase transition temperature through hydrogen bond modification in molecular ferroelectrics
Authors: Xiong Yu-An , Duan Sheng-Shun , Hu Hui-Hui , Yao Jie , Pan Qiang , Sha Tai-Ting , Wei Xiao , Ji Hao-Ran , Wu Jun , You Yu-Meng
Published: May 2024

Molecular ferroelectrics are attracting great interest due to their light weight, mechanical flexibility, low cost, ease of processing and environmental friendliness. These advantages make molecular ferroelectrics viable alternatives or supplements to inorganic ceramics and polymer ferroelectrics. It is expected that molecular ferroelectrics with good performance can be fabricated, which in turns calls for effective chemical design strategies in crystal engineering. To achieve so, we propose a hydrogen bond modification method by introducing the hydroxyl group, and successfully boost the phase transition temperature (Tc) by at least 336 K. As a result, the molecular ferroelectric 1-hydroxy-3-adamantanammonium tetrafluoroborate [(HaaOH)BF4] can maintain ferroelectricity until 528 K, a Tc value much larger than that of BTO (390 K). Meanwhile, micro-domain patterns, in stable state for 2 years, can be directly written on the film of (HaaOH)BF4. In this respect, hydrogen bond modification is a feasible and effective strategy for designing molecular ferroelectrics with high Tc and stable ferroelectric domains. Such an organic molecule with varied modification sites and the precise crystal engineering can provide an efficient route to enrich high-Tc ferroelectrics with various physical properties.
Rab30 facilitates lipid homeostasis during fasting
Authors: Smith Danielle M. , Liu Brian Y. , Wolfgang Michael J.
Published: May 2024

To facilitate inter-tissue communication and the exchange of proteins, lipoproteins, and metabolites with the circulation, hepatocytes have an intricate and efficient intracellular trafficking system regulated by small Rab GTPases. Here, we show that Rab30 is induced in the mouse liver by fasting, which is amplified in liver-specific carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 knockout mice (Cpt2L−/−) lacking the ability to oxidize fatty acids, in a Pparα-dependent manner. Live-cell super-resolution imaging and in vivo proximity labeling demonstrates that Rab30-marked vesicles are highly dynamic and interact with proteins throughout the secretory pathway. Rab30 whole-body, liver-specific, and Rab30; Cpt2 liver-specific double knockout (DKO) mice are viable with intact Golgi ultrastructure, although Rab30 deficiency in DKO mice suppresses the serum dyslipidemia observed in Cpt2L−/− mice. Corresponding with decreased serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels, DKO mice exhibit decreased circulating but not hepatic ApoA4 protein, indicative of a trafficking defect. Together, these data suggest a role for Rab30 in the selective sorting of lipoproteins to influence hepatocyte and circulating triglyceride levels, particularly during times of excessive lipid burden.
Undetected perovskite phase interference with zirconolite dissolution measurements
Authors: Goût Thomas L. , Mir Anamul H. , Fairclough Simon M. , Pletser Dimitri , Farnan Ian
Published: May 2024

Zirconolite ceramics present a chemically durable host matrix for waste actinides, but zirconolite dissolution rates reported in the literature often vary significantly. Here, the release of Ca and Al from a hot isostatically pressed zirconolite (Ca0.8Zr0.9Ce0.3Ti1.6Al0.4O7.0) was shown to be predominantly driven by preferential dissolution of minor perovskite and alumina phases. Both phases were undetectable by XRD, and the perovskite was difficult to detect by SEM-EDS. Whilst the zirconolite phase exhibited no signs of alteration, dissolution of the perovskite proceeded congruently without forming a hydrated altered layer or diffusion of protons into the solid that would be indicative of an ion-exchange mechanism. The weak temperature dependence of dissolution (40, 90 and 150 °C) showed that kinetics were limited by transport and a mixed transport-surface controlled reaction for Ca and Al, respectively. A significant H2O-D2O isotope effect on dissolution was observed for Ca but not for Al at all temperatures. The former was consistent with an abated rate of hydrolysis in the absence of a contribution from diffusion, whilst the latter could be attributed to differences in the activated complex for Ca and Al release through hydrolysis. These results demonstrate the role of a secondary phase perovskite in the dissolution kinetics of zirconolite even when perovskite occurs at low concentration and evades detection by bulk techniques such as XRD. This study provides a potential explanation of variations in zirconolite ceramic dissolution rates present in the literature and provides a null result to tests of an incongruent Ca release mechanism from zirconolite.
Relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and gastrointestinal diseases: a systematic review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Cao Liubin , Zhou Chengpei , Zhang Rupei , Zhou Shan , Sun Xiaolei , Yan Jun
Published: May 2024

Studies exploring the association between obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSA) and gastrointestinal diseases (GID) are important for enhancing clinical outcomes. This study aimed to systematically assess the association between these two diseases. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Willey Library, Cochrane Library and Scopus. This search focused on English literature published up to January 2024. Literature screening, quality assessment (using the NOS scale) and data extraction were performed by two independent researchers. Statistical analyses were performed using the meta-package of the R.4.2.2 software. An initial screening of 2178 papers was conducted and 11 studies were included. Meta-analysis results showed a significant association between OSA and GID (p < 0.01). Subgroup analyses further indicated a stronger association between OSA and GID in Asian populations compared to Europe and the United States. In addition, both benign and malignant GID were significantly associated with OSA, with a pronounced association for malignant GID than for benign GID. The results of publication bias analysis revealed no significant bias (Begg’s test p = 0.45, Egger’s test p = 0.60). This study uncovers a notable association between OSA and GID, especially in Asian populations, suggesting that clinicians should consider the potential connection between these two diseases during diagnosis and treatment. However, due to the heterogeneity and limitations of the study, these conclusions need to be further validated through more comprehensive research.
Sustained antigen delivery improves germinal center reaction and increases antibody responses in neonatal mice
Authors: Lotspeich-Cole Leda , Parvathaneni Swetha , Sakai Jiro , Liu Lunhua , Takeda Kazuyo , Lee Robert C. , Akkoyunlu Mustafa
Published: May 2024

Neonates and young infants are known to have limited responses to pediatric vaccines due to reduced germinal center formation. Extended vaccine antigen dosing was previously shown to expand germinal center formation and improve humoral responses in adult mice. We report that sustained antigen delivery through sequential dosing overcomes neonatal limitations to form germinal center reactions and improves humoral immunity. Thus, vaccine strategies that extend the release of vaccine antigens may reduce the number of doses, and time needed, to achieve protective immunity in neonates and young infants.
Long-term kidney outcomes of semaglutide in obesity and cardiovascular disease in the SELECT trial
Authors: Colhoun Helen M. , Lingvay Ildiko , Brown Paul M. , Deanfield John , Brown-Frandsen Kirstine , Kahn Steven E. , Plutzky Jorge , Node Koichi , Parkhomenko Alexander , Rydén Lars , Wilding John P. H. , Mann Johannes F. E. , Tuttle Katherine R. , Idorn Thomas , Rathor Naveen , Lincoff A. Michael
Published: May 2024

The SELECT trial previously reported a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events with semaglutide (n = 8,803) versus placebo (n = 8,801) in patients with overweight/obesity and established cardiovascular disease, without diabetes. In the present study, we examined the effect of once-weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg on kidney outcomes in the SELECT trial. The incidence of the pre-specified main composite kidney endpoint (death from kidney disease, initiation of chronic kidney replacement therapy, onset of persistent estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 15 ml min−1 1.73 m−2, persistent ≥50% reduction in eGFR or onset of persistent macroalbuminuria) was lower with semaglutide (1.8%) versus placebo (2.2%): hazard ratio (HR) = 0.78; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63, 0.96; P = 0.02. The treatment benefit at 104 weeks for eGFR was 0.75 ml min−1 1.73 m−2 (95% CI 0.43, 1.06; P < 0.001) overall and 2.19 ml min−1 1.73 m−2 (95% CI 1.00, 3.38; P < 0.001) in patients with baseline eGFR <60 ml min−1 1.73 m−2. These results suggest a benefit of semaglutide on kidney outcomes in individuals with overweight/obesity, without diabetes.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03574597.
The reference genome of Macropodus opercularis (the paradise fish)
Authors: Fodor Erika , Okendo Javan , Szabó Nóra , Szabó Kata , Czimer Dávid , Tarján-Rácz Anita , Szeverényi Ildikó , Low Bi Wei , Liew Jia Huan , Koren Sergey , Rhie Arang , Orbán László , Miklósi Ádám , Varga Máté , Burgess Shawn M.
Published: May 2024

Amongst fishes, zebrafish (Danio rerio) has gained popularity as a model system over most other species and while their value as a model is well documented, their usefulness is limited in certain fields of research such as behavior. By embracing other, less conventional experimental organisms, opportunities arise to gain broader insights into evolution and development, as well as studying behavioral aspects not available in current popular model systems. The anabantoid paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis), an “air-breather” species has a highly complex behavioral repertoire and has been the subject of many ethological investigations but lacks genomic resources. Here we report the reference genome assembly of M. opercularis using long-read sequences at 150-fold coverage. The final assembly consisted of 483,077,705 base pairs (~483 Mb) on 152 contigs. Within the assembled genome we identified and annotated 20,157 protein coding genes and assigned ~90% of them to orthogroups.
REAL-Colon: A dataset for developing real-world AI applications in colonoscopy
Authors: Biffi Carlo , Antonelli Giulio , Bernhofer Sebastian , Hassan Cesare , Hirata Daizen , Iwatate Mineo , Maieron Andreas , Salvagnini Pietro , Cherubini Andrea
Published: May 2024

Detection and diagnosis of colon polyps are key to preventing colorectal cancer. Recent evidence suggests that AI-based computer-aided detection (CADe) and computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) systems can enhance endoscopists' performance and boost colonoscopy effectiveness. However, most available public datasets primarily consist of still images or video clips, often at a down-sampled resolution, and do not accurately represent real-world colonoscopy procedures. We introduce the REAL-Colon (Real-world multi-center Endoscopy Annotated video Library) dataset: a compilation of 2.7 M native video frames from sixty full-resolution, real-world colonoscopy recordings across multiple centers. The dataset contains 350k bounding-box annotations, each created under the supervision of expert gastroenterologists. Comprehensive patient clinical data, colonoscopy acquisition information, and polyp histopathological information are also included in each video. With its unprecedented size, quality, and heterogeneity, the REAL-Colon dataset is a unique resource for researchers and developers aiming to advance AI research in colonoscopy. Its openness and transparency facilitate rigorous and reproducible research, fostering the development and benchmarking of more accurate and reliable colonoscopy-related algorithms and models.
Head model dataset for mixed reality navigation in neurosurgical interventions for intracranial lesions
Authors: Qi Ziyu , Jin Haitao , Xu Xinghua , Wang Qun , Gan Zhichao , Xiong Ruochu , Zhang Shiyu , Liu Minghang , Wang Jingyue , Ding Xinyu , Chen Xiaolei , Zhang Jiashu , Nimsky Christopher , Bopp Miriam H. A.
Published: May 2024

Mixed reality navigation (MRN) technology is emerging as an increasingly significant and interesting topic in neurosurgery. MRN enables neurosurgeons to “see through” the head with an interactive, hybrid visualization environment that merges virtual- and physical-world elements. Offering immersive, intuitive, and reliable guidance for preoperative and intraoperative intervention of intracranial lesions, MRN showcases its potential as an economically efficient and user-friendly alternative to standard neuronavigation systems. However, the clinical research and development of MRN systems present challenges: recruiting a sufficient number of patients within a limited timeframe is difficult, and acquiring low-cost, commercially available, medically significant head phantoms is equally challenging. To accelerate the development of novel MRN systems and surmount these obstacles, the study presents a dataset designed for MRN system development and testing in neurosurgery. It includes CT and MRI data from 19 patients with intracranial lesions and derived 3D models of anatomical structures and validation references. The models are available in Wavefront object (OBJ) and Stereolithography (STL) formats, supporting the creation and assessment of neurosurgical MRN applications.
Exploring the “gene–metabolite” network of ischemic stroke with blood stasis and toxin syndrome by integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics strategy
Authors: Liu Yue , Cui Wenqiang , Liu Hongxi , Yao Mingjiang , Shen Wei , Miao Lina , Wei Jingjing , Liang Xiao , Zhang Yunling
Published: May 2024

A research model combining a disease and syndrome can provide new ideas for the treatment of ischemic stroke. In the field of traditional Chinese medicine, blood stasis and toxin (BST) syndrome is considered an important syndrome seen in patients with ischemic stroke (IS). However, the biological basis of IS-BST syndrome is currently not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the biological mechanism of IS-BST syndrome. This study is divided into two parts: (1) establishment of an animal model of ischemic stroke disease and an animal model of BST syndrome in ischemic stroke; (2) use of omics methods to identify differentially expressed genes and metabolites in the models. We used middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery to establish the disease model, and utilized carrageenan combined with active dry yeast and MCAO surgery to construct the IS-BST syndrome model. Next, we used transcriptomics and metabolomics methods to explore the differential genes and metabolites in the disease model and IS-BST syndrome model. It is found that the IS-BST syndrome model exhibited more prominent characteristics of IS disease and syndrome features. Both the disease model and the IS-BST syndrome model share some common biological processes, such as thrombus formation, inflammatory response, purine metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and so on. Results of the “gene–metabolite” network revealed that the IS-BST syndrome model exhibited more pronounced features of complement-coagulation cascade reactions and amino acid metabolism disorders. Additionally, the “F2 (thrombin)–NMDAR/glutamate” pathway was coupled with the formation process of the blood stasis and toxin syndrome. This study reveals the intricate mechanism of IS-BST syndrome, offering a successful model for investigating the combination of disease and syndrome.