bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-index-contrast photonic structures: a versatile platform for photon manipulation
Authors: Kim Young-Bin , Cho Jin-Woo , Lee Yun-Jo , Bae Dukkyu , Kim Sun-Kyung
Published: November 2022

In optics, the refractive index of a material and its spatial distribution determine the characteristics of light propagation. Therefore, exploring both low- and high-index materials/structures is an important consideration in this regard. Hollow cavities, which are defined as low-index bases, exhibit a variety of unusual or even unexplored optical characteristics and are used in numerous functionalities including diffraction gratings, localised optical antennas and low-loss resonators. In this report, we discuss the fabrication of hollow cavities of various sizes (0.2–5 μm in diameter) that are supported by conformal dielectric/metal shells, as well as their specific applications in the ultraviolet (photodetectors), visible (light-emitting diodes, solar cells and metalenses), near-infrared (thermophotovoltaics) and mid-infrared (radiative coolers) regions. Our findings demonstrate that hollow cavities tailored to specific spectra and applications can serve as versatile optical platforms to address the limitations of current optoelectronic devices. Furthermore, hollow cavity embedded structures are highly elastic and can minimise the thermal stress caused by high temperatures. As such, future applications will likely include high-temperature devices such as thermophotovoltaics and concentrator photovoltaics.
Identification of a rare Gli1+ progenitor cell population contributing to liver regeneration during chronic injury
Authors: Peng Jiayin , Li Fei , Wang Jia , Wang Chaoxiong , Jiang Yiao , Liu Biao , He Juan , Yuan Kai , Pan Chenyu , Lin Moubin , Zhou Bin , Chen Luonan , Gao Dong , Zhao Yun
Published: November 2022

In adults, hepatocytes are mainly replenished from the existing progenitor pools of hepatocytes and cholangiocytes during chronic liver injury. However, it is unclear whether other cell types in addition to classical hepatocytes and cholangiocytes contribute to hepatocyte regeneration after chronic liver injuries. Here, we identified a new biphenotypic cell population that contributes to hepatocyte regeneration during chronic liver injuries. We found that a cell population expressed Gli1 and EpCAM (EpCAM+Gli1+), which was further characterized with both epithelial and mesenchymal identities by single-cell RNA sequencing. Genetic lineage tracing using dual recombinases revealed that Gli1+ nonhepatocyte cell population could generate hepatocytes after chronic liver injury. EpCAM+Gli1+ cells exhibited a greater capacity for organoid formation with functional hepatocytes in vitro and liver regeneration upon transplantation in vivo. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that EpCAM+Gli1+ cells can serve as a new source of liver progenitor cells and contribute to liver repair and regeneration.
Analytical and computational workflow for in-depth analysis of oxidized complex lipids in blood plasma
Authors: Criscuolo Angela , Nepachalovich Palina , Garcia-del Rio Diego Fernando , Lange Mike , Ni Zhixu , Baroni Massimo , Cruciani Gabriele , Goracci Laura , Blüher Matthias , Fedorova Maria
Published: November 2022

Lipids are a structurally diverse class of biomolecules which can undergo a variety of chemical modifications. Among them, lipid (per)oxidation attracts most of the attention due to its significance in the regulation of inflammation, cell proliferation and death programs. Despite their apparent regulatory significance, the molecular repertoire of oxidized lipids remains largely elusive as accurate annotation of lipid modifications is complicated by their low abundance and often unknown, biological context-dependent structural diversity. Here, we provide a workflow based on the combination of bioinformatics and LC-MS/MS technologies to support identification and relative quantification of oxidized complex lipids in a modification type- and position-specific manner. The developed methodology is used to identify epilipidomics signatures of lean and obese individuals with and without type 2 diabetes. The characteristic signature of lipid modifications in lean individuals, dominated by the presence of modified octadecanoid acyl chains in phospho- and neutral lipids, is drastically shifted towards lipid peroxidation-driven accumulation of oxidized eicosanoids, suggesting significant alteration of endocrine signalling by oxidized lipids in metabolic disorders.
Flexible kesterite thin-film solar cells under stress
Authors: Park Ha Kyung , Cho Yunae , Kim Juran , Kim Sammi , Kim Sungjun , Kim Jeha , Yang Kee-Jeong , Kim Dae-Hwan , Kang Jin-Kyu , Jo William
Published: November 2022

Understanding the stress-induced phenomena is essential for improving the long-term application of flexible solar cells to non-flat surfaces. Here, we investigated the electronic band structure and carrier transport mechanism of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) photovoltaic devices under mechanical stress. Highly efficient flexible CZTSSe devices were fabricated controlling the Na incorporation. The electronic structure of CZTSSe was deformed with stress as the band gap, valence band edge, and work function changed. Electrical properties of the bent CZTSSe surface were probed by Kelvin probe force microscopy and the CZTSSe with Na showed less degraded carrier transport compared to the CZTSSe without Na. The local open-circuit voltage (VOC) on the bent CZTSSe surface decreased due to limited carrier excitation. The reduction of local VOC occurred larger with convex bending than in concave bending, which is consistent with the degradation of device parameters. This study paves the way for understanding the stress-induced optoelectronic changes in flexible photovoltaic devices.
Design and implementation of virtual fitting system based on gesture recognition and clothing transfer algorithm
Authors: Wu Ying , Liu Hongbing , Lu Pengzhen , Zhang Lihua , Yuan Fangjian
Published: November 2022

Virtual fitting can bring fast and convenient fitting experience for people. The two core problems of virtual fitting system are human–computer interaction and clothing simulation. Interaction is an important factor in determining the fitting experience. The previous virtual fitting products usually use the mouse and keyboard interaction, and users rarely have a good sense of substitution and interaction. While, the method of using multiple cameras to take user images from different angles and then carry out posture recognition has the defect of low recognition accuracy. In view of clothing simulation and human–computer interaction of virtual fitting system, in order to achieve better customer immersion experience, this paper implemented a real-time interactive virtual fitting system based on Microsoft Kinect motion sensing device, and proposed a gesture determination algorithm based on finger recognition and an image transfer algorithm based on skeleton information matching. Using OpenNI development library and multi-threading technology, we have developed a motion-sensing capture module and a complete real-time virtual fitting system, and the system test results show that it has a good user experience.
Experience of virtual commissioning of a process control system for the production of high-paraffin oil
Authors: Ilyushin Yury V. , Fetisov Vadim
Published: November 2022

This work describes the experience in developing and testing software for oil industry automation control systems based on the simulation of technological processes and control systems combined in virtual reality, this approach is called virtual commissioning and is widely used in the world both to create automated process control systems and to simulate interactions between different systems.
Dynamic landslide susceptibility analysis that combines rainfall period, accumulated rainfall, and geospatial information
Authors: Lee Jae-Joon , Song Moon-Soo , Yun Hong-Sik , Yum Sang-Guk
Published: November 2022

Worldwide, catastrophic landslides are occurring as a result of abnormal climatic conditions. Since a landslide is caused by a combination of the triggers of rainfall and the vulnerability of spatial information, a study that can suggest a method to analyze the complex relationship between the two factors is required. In this study, the relationship between complex factors (rainfall period, accumulated rainfall, and spatial information characteristics) was designed as a system dynamics model as variables to check the possibility of occurrence of vulnerable areas according to the rainfall characteristics that change in real-time. In contrast to the current way of predicting the collapse time by analysing rainfall data, the developed model can set the precipitation period during rainfall. By setting the induced rainfall period, the researcher can then assess the susceptibility of the landslide-vulnerable area. Further, because the geospatial information features and rainfall data for the 672 h before the landslide's occurrence were combined, the results of the susceptibility analysis could be determined for each topographical characteristic according to the rainfall period and cumulative rainfall change. Third, by adjusting the General cumulative rainfall period (DG) and Inter-event time definition (IETD), the preceding rainfall period can be adjusted, and desired results can be obtained. An analysis method that can solve complex relationships can contribute to the prediction of landslide warning times and expected occurrence locations.
Glow discharge plasma stabilization of azo dye on PMMA polymer
Authors: Yari Mohammad Reza , Zakerhamidi Mohammad Sadegh , Ghomi Hamid
Published: November 2022

The effects of argon gas glow discharge plasma on the surface of DR1 dye-loaded PMMA polymer films are examined in this work. Plasma immobilizes the dye on the surface of polymer without using stabilizers. Argon plasma activates the surface through breaking some bonds and generation of radical sites. It affects the acrylate groups of PMMA leading to covalent bonds between dye and surface of polymer. In addition, plasma treatment and contact with ambient air may result in the creation of new polar components, such as carbonyl and carboxyl compounds and links that enhance the dye attachment to the polymer matrix. Besides, the dye adsorption on the polymer film is impacted by changes in surface topography. Furthermore, plasma modifies the dye conformation, which affects the adherence of the dye to the polymer surface through bringing the dye to the higher energy state. The chemical and topographical modification of dye-loaded PMMA films by plasma are investigated by spectroscopic and AFM methods. Furthermore, aging process was used to confirm dye retention on the polymer film after plasma modification as opposed to dye-loaded polymer film that was left untreated as a reference sample. Finally, investigated method suggests a novel and very affordable technique for fabrication of poly(MMA-co-DR1) copolymer in the form of a homogeneous surface layer.
Lumbar puncture safety and tolerability in premanifest and manifest Huntington’s disease: a multi-analysis cross-sectional study
Authors: Hassan Yara Refaat , Brogueira Rodrigues Filipe , Zeun Paul , Byrne Lauren M. , Estevez-Fraga Carlos , Tortelli Rosanna , Scahill Rachael I. , Wild Edward J. , Tabrizi Sarah J.
Published: November 2022

Lumbar puncture (LP) has become increasingly common for people with Huntington’s disease (HD) both to administer intrathecal investigational medicinal products and to collect cerebrospinal fluid to develop biological markers to track disease stage and progression. We aimed to investigate the safety profile of LP in people with HD, building on a recently published work by increasing the sample size and more specifically, increasing the representation of the premanifest population and healthy controls. We conducted a multi-study cross-sectional analysis including eligible participants from the HDClarity (304 Huntington's disease gene expansion carriers and 91 controls) and HD-YAS studies (54 premanifest and 48 controls), enrolled between February 2016 and September 2019. We investigated the odds of any adverse events, headaches, and back pain independently. Intergroup comparisons and adjusted event odds were derived using hierarchical logistic regressions. A total of 669 LP procedures involving 497 participants were included in this analysis. There were 184 (27.5%) LP procedures associated with one or more adverse events. The two most common adverse events were: post LP headache and back pain. Younger age and female gender were found to be associated with a higher risk of developing adverse events. There was no difference in the rate of adverse events between the disease subgroups after adjusting for covariates such as age and gender. Our results suggest that the LP is safe and tolerable in premanifest and manifest HD subjects, providing useful reassurance about the procedure to the HD community.
Extreme obesity is a strong predictor for in-hospital mortality and the prevalence of long-COVID in severe COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Heubner Lars , Petrick Paul Leon , Güldner Andreas , Bartels Lea , Ragaller Maximillian , Mirus Martin , Rand Axel , Tiebel Oliver , Beyer-Westendorf Jan , Rößler Martin , Schmitt Jochen , Koch Thea , Spieth Peter Markus
Published: November 2022

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is common in COVID-19 patients and is associated with high mortality. The aim of this observational study was to describe patients’ characteristics and outcome, identifying potential risk factors for in-hospital mortality and for developing Long-COVID symptoms. This retrospective study included all patients with COVID-19 associated ARDS (cARDS) in the period from March 2020 to March 2021 who were invasively ventilated at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the University Hospital Dresden, Germany. Between October 2021 and December 2021 patients discharged alive (at minimum 6 months after hospital discharge—midterm survival) were contacted and interviewed about persistent symptoms possibly associated with COVID-19 as well as the quality of their lives using the EQ-5D-5L-questionnaire. Long-COVID was defined as the occurrence of one of the symptoms at least 6 months after discharge. Risk factors for mortality were assessed with Cox regression models and risk factors for developing Long-COVID symptoms by using relative risk (RR) regression. 184 Patients were included in this study (male: n = 134 (73%), median age 67 (range 25–92). All patients were diagnosed with ARDS according to the Berlin Definition. 89% of patients (n = 164) had severe ARDS (Horovitz-index < 100 mmHg). In 27% (n = 49) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was necessary to maintain gas exchange. The median length of in-hospital stay was 19 days (range 1–60). ICU mortality was 51%, hospital mortality 59%. Midterm survival (median 11 months) was 83% (n = 55) and 78% (n = 43) of these patients presented Long-COVID symptoms with fatigue as the most common symptom (70%). Extreme obesity (BMI > 40 kg/m2) was the strongest predictor for in-hospital mortality (hazard ratio: 3.147, confidence interval 1.000–9.897) and for developing Long-COVID symptoms (RR 1.61, confidence interval 1.26–2.06). In-hospital mortality in severe cARDS patients was high, but > 80% of patients discharged alive survived the midterm observation period. Nonetheless, most patients developed Long-COVID symptoms. Extreme obesity with BMI > 40 kg/m2 was identified as independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality and for developing Long-COVID symptoms.

Trial registration DRKS-ID DRKS00027856.
Development and evaluation of triple gene transgenic cotton lines expressing three genes (Cry1Ac-Cry2Ab-EPSPS) for lepidopteran insect pests and herbicide tolerance
Authors: Siddiqui Hamid Anees , Asad Shaheen , Naqvi Rubab Zahra , Asif Muhammad , Liu Chengcheng , Liu Xin , Farooq Muhammad , Abro Saifullah , Rizwan Muhammad , Arshad Muhammad , Sarwar Muhammad , Amin Imran , Mukhtar Zahid , Mansoor Shahid
Published: November 2022

Cotton is an international agricultural commodity and the main cash crop of Pakistan of which quality and quantity are subject to various whims of nature. Climate change, insect pest complex, and weeds are reducing its productivity. Here, we have developed triple gene cotton containing EPSPS gene along with two Bt toxin genes Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab using a strategy where all three genes are cloned in the same T-DNA, followed by successful cotton transformation via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. This strategy has been developed to help cotton breeders in developing new cultivars by incorporating these genes into the non-transgenic or single Bt (Cry1Ac) gene cotton background where all three genes will inherit together. The expression of all three proteins was confirmed through immunostrips and was quantified through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The spatio-temporal expression of Bt protein in different parts of triple gene NIBGE cotton plants was determined. Maximum expression was found in leaves followed by seeds and boll rinds. Insect bioassays with cotton bollworms (Helicoverpa armigera), armyworms (Spodoptera litura), and pink bollworms (Pectinophora gossypiella) showed more than 90% mortality. The best performing line (NIBGE-E2) on the basis of spatiotemporal expression, glyphosate assays, and insect mortality data, was used for event characterization by using the genome sequencing approach. The event was successfully characterized and named NIBGE 20-01. A diagnostics test based on event-specific PCR was developed and its ability to distinguish NIBGE 20-01 event from other commercial transgenic cotton events was confirmed. To confirm stable expression of all three proteins in the field conditions, homozygous transgenic lines were grown in the field and the expression was confirmed through immunostrip assays. It was found that all three genes are expressed under field conditions. To show that all three genes are inherited together upon crossing with local elite cotton lines, the F1 generation was grown under glasshouse and field conditions. The expression of all three genes was confirmed under field conditions. Our results showed that transgenic cotton with three genes cloned in the same T-DNA can express all genes and can be conveniently transferred into elite cotton lines through a single cross.
A method for quantitation of apoplast hydration in Arabidopsis leaves reveals water-soaking activity of effectors of Pseudomonas syringae during biotrophy
Authors: Ekanayake Gayani , Gohmann Reid , Mackey David
Published: November 2022

The plant apoplast has a crucial role in photosynthesis and respiration due to its vital function in gas exchange and transpiration. The apoplast is also a dynamic environment that participates in many ion and nutrient transport processes via plasma membrane-localized proteins. Furthermore, diverse microbes colonize the plant apoplast, including the hemibiotrophic bacterial pathogen,Pseudomonas syringaepv. tomato (Pto) strain DC3000.PtoDC3000 initiates pathogenesis upon moving through stomata into the apoplast and then proliferating to high levels. Here we developed a centrifugation-based method to isolate and quantify the apoplast fluid in Arabidopsis leaves, without significantly damaging the tissue. We applied the simple apoplast extraction method to demonstrate that thePtoDC3000 type III bacterial effectors AvrE1 and HopM1 induce hydration of the Arabidopsis apoplast in advance of macroscopic water-soaking, disruption of host cell integrity, and disease progression. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of the apoplast extraction method for isolation of bacteria proliferating in the apoplast.
Meta-analysis of epigenome-wide association studies of major depressive disorder
Authors: Li Qingqin S. , Morrison Randall L. , Turecki Gustavo , Drevets Wayne C.
Published: November 2022

Epigenetic mechanisms have been hypothesized to play a role in the etiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). In this study, we performed a meta-analysis between two case–control MDD cohorts to identify differentially methylated positions (DMPs) and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in MDD. Using samples from two Cohorts (a total of 298 MDD cases and 63 controls with repeated samples, on average ~ 1.8 samples/subject), we performed an EWAS meta-analysis. Multiple cytosine-phosphate-guanine sites annotated to TNNT3 were associated with MDD reaching study-wide significance, including cg08337959 (p = 2.3 × 10–11). Among DMPs with association p values less than 0.0001, pathways from REACTOME such as Ras activation upon Ca2+ influx through the NMDA receptor (p = 0.0001, p-adjusted = 0.05) and long-term potentiation (p = 0.0002, p-adjusted = 0.05) were enriched in this study. A total of 127 DMRs with Sidak-corrected p value < 0.05 were identified from the meta-analysis, including DMRs annotated to TNNT3 (chr11: 1948933 to 1949130 [6 probes], Sidak corrected P value = 4.32 × 10–41), S100A13 (chr1: 153599479 to 153600972 [22 probes], Sidak corrected P value = 5.32 × 10–18), NRXN1 (chr2: 50201413 to 50201505 [4 probes], Sidak corrected P value = 1.19 × 10–11), IL17RA (chr22: 17564750 to 17565149, Sidak corrected P value = 9.31 × 10–8), and NPFFR2 (chr4: 72897565 to 72898212, Sidak corrected P value = 8.19 × 10–7). Using 2 Cohorts of depression case–control samples, we identified DMPs and DMRs associated with MDD. The molecular pathways implicated by these data include mechanisms involved in neuronal synaptic plasticity, calcium signaling, and inflammation, consistent with reports from previous genetic and protein biomarker studies indicating that these mechanisms are involved in the neurobiology of depression.
BMI variability and incident diabetes mellitus, Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS)
Authors: Mehran Ladan , Mousapour Pouria , Khalili Davood , Cheraghi Leila , Honarvar Mohammadjavad , Amouzegar Atieh , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: November 2022

Previous epidemiologic studies debated the association of body mass index (BMI) trends with cardiovascular disease and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the association of BMI variability and slope with the incidence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a sex-stratified 15.8-year follow-up in the population-based Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Of 10,911 individuals aged 20–60 years, 4981 subjects were included and followed for 15.8-years. The slope coefficient of BMI in the linear regression model represented individuals’ BMI trends up to the incidence of DM. The root mean squared error (RMSE) of the BMI linear trend was selected to reflect BMI variability through six follow-ups. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to investigate the association of the baseline BMI, BMI slope and RMSE with the incidence of T2DM among men and women. Multivariable-adjusted HRs of T2DM for each SD increment in BMI slope was 1.18 (95% CI: 0.94–1.48, p = 0.161) in normal weight men and 1.26 (95% CI: 1.10–1.44, p = 0.001) in overweight and obese men. However, in women, each SD increment in BMI slope increased the risk of T2DM with a HR of 1.19 (95% CI: 1.01–1.40, p = 0.039) in normal weight, and 1.14 (95% CI: 1.08–1.19, p < 0.001) in women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. In men with a baseline BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, BMI-RMSE was associated with a decreased risk of T2DM (HR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.53–0.93, p = 0.015). Baseline BMI was not associated with the risk of diabetes in men and women. Positive BMI slope is associated with the development of diabetes in both sexes. The association of BMI variability with incident T2DM differs according to sex and baseline BMI. BMI variability is associated with a lower risk of T2DM in overweight and obese men. BMI variability in women and baseline BMI in both gender are not related to the risk of T2DM.
Dairy intake in relation to metabolic health status in overweight and obese adolescents
Authors: Tirani Shahnaz Amani , Mirzaei Saeideh , Asadi Ali , Akhlaghi Masoumeh , Saneei Parvane
Published: November 2022

There was a lack of evidence on the association between dairy intake and metabolic health status in overweight/obese adolescents. This study evaluated the association between dairy intake and metabolic health status in overweight/obese Iranian adolescents. Overweight/obese adolescents (n = 203; 101 boys and 102 girls) selected by a multistage cluster random sampling method have participated in this cross-sectional study. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated 147-item food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure, fasting glucose, insulin, and lipid profile were measured. Participants were categorized to metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) according to International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria and a combination of IDF with Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) criteria. The frequency of MUO based on IDF, and IDF/HOMA-IR definitions was 38.9% and 33.0%, respectively. In fully-adjusted model, participants in the highest tertile of dairy intake had 61% lower odds of MUO based on IDF criteria (OR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.15–0.99). Higher dairy intake was associated with a non-significant lower risk of MUO according to IDF/HOMA-IR definition in the maximally-adjusted model (OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.17–1.16). Stratifies analysis by sex and body mass index revealed that the association was stronger in girls and overweight subjects. Furthermore, higher intake of low-fat dairy was related to a reduced likelihood of MUO, while higher intake of high-fat dairy was related to increased odds of MUO. This community-based cross-sectional study revealed that higher intake of dairy was associated with a significant lower odd of MUO among Iranian adolescents, especially in girls and overweight subjects.
Quantifying the impacts of land cover change on gross primary productivity globally
Authors: Krause Andreas , Papastefanou Phillip , Gregor Konstantin , Layritz Lucia S. , Zang Christian S. , Buras Allan , Li Xing , Xiao Jingfeng , Rammig Anja
Published: November 2022

Historically, humans have cleared many forests for agriculture. While this substantially reduced ecosystem carbon storage, the impacts of these land cover changes on terrestrial gross primary productivity (GPP) have not been adequately resolved yet. Here, we combine high-resolution datasets of satellite-derived GPP and environmental predictor variables to estimate the potential GPP of forests, grasslands, and croplands around the globe. With a mean GPP of 2.0 kg C m−2 yr−1 forests represent the most productive land cover on two thirds of the total area suitable for any of these land cover types, while grasslands and croplands on average reach 1.5 and 1.8 kg C m−2 yr−1, respectively. Combining our potential GPP maps with a historical land-use reconstruction indicates a 4.4% reduction in global GPP from agricultural expansion. This land-use-induced GPP reduction is amplified in some future scenarios as a result of ongoing deforestation (e.g., the large-scale bioenergy scenario SSP4-3.4) but partly reversed in other scenarios (e.g., the sustainability scenario SSP1-1.9) due to agricultural abandonment. Comparing our results to simulations from state-of-the-art Earth System Models, we find that all investigated models deviate substantially from our estimates and from each other. Our maps could be used as a benchmark to reduce this inconsistency, thereby improving projections of land-based climate mitigation potentials.
Changes in subcutaneous adipose tissue microRNA expression in response to exercise training in African women with obesity
Authors: Pheiffer Carmen , Dias Stephanie , Mendham Amy E. , Jack Babalwa , Willmer Tarryn , Eshibona Nasr , Bendou Hocine , Pretorius Ashley , Goedecke Julia H.
Published: November 2022

The mechanisms that underlie exercise-induced adaptations in adipose tissue have not been elucidated, yet, accumulating studies suggest an important role for microRNAs (miRNAs). This study aimed to investigate miRNA expression in gluteal subcutaneous adipose tissue (GSAT) in response to a 12-week exercise intervention in South African women with obesity, and to assess depot-specific differences in miRNA expression in GSAT and abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (ASAT). In addition, the association between exercise-induced changes in miRNA expression and metabolic risk was evaluated. Women underwent 12-weeks of supervised aerobic and resistance training (n = 19) or maintained their regular physical activity during this period (n = 12). Exercise-induced miRNAs were identified in GSAT using Illumina sequencing, followed by analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs in GSAT and ASAT using quantitative real-time PCR. Associations between the changes (pre- and post-exercise training) in miRNA expression and metabolic parameters were evaluated using Spearman’s correlation tests. Exercise training significantly increased the expression of miR-155-5p (1.5-fold, p = 0.045), miR-329-3p (2.1-fold, p < 0.001) and miR-377-3p (1.7-fold, p = 0.013) in GSAT, but not in ASAT. In addition, a novel miRNA, MYN0617, was identified in GSAT, with low expression in ASAT. The exercise-induced differences in miRNA expression were correlated with each other and associated with changes in high-density lipoprotein concentrations. Exercise training induced adipose-depot specific miRNA expression within subcutaneous adipose tissue depots from South African women with obesity. The significance of the association between exercise-induced miRNAs and metabolic risk warrants further investigation.
Au nanoclusters-decorated WO3 nanorods for ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical sensing of Hg2+
Authors: Dai Si , Huang Hui , Liu Shihan , Deng Wenfang , Tan Yueming , Xie Qingji
Published: November 2022

Ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical sensing of Hg2+ is achieved using Au nanocluster-decorated WO3 nanorods as photoactive materials.
Length dependence thermal conductivity of zinc selenide (ZnSe) and zinc telluride (ZnTe) – a combined first principles and frequency domain thermoreflectance (FDTR) study
Authors: Muthaiah Rajmohan , Annam Roshan Sameer , Tarannum Fatema , Gupta Ashish Kumar , Garg Jivtesh , Arafin Shamsul
Published: November 2022

The length dependence thermal conductivity of isotopically disordered ZnSe and ZnTe is reported.
Ultrahigh thermoelectric performance of Janus α-STe2 and α-SeTe2 monolayers
Authors: Liu Gang , Guo Aiqing , Cao Fengli , Ju Weiwei , Wang Zhaowu , Wang Hui , Li Guo-Ling , Gao Zhibin
Published: November 2022

Janus α-STe2 and α-SeTe2 monolayers are investigated systematically using first-principles calculations combined with semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory.
Intermolecular amide and aldehyde interactions: rotational spectroscopy of the complexes of formaldehyde with 2-azetidinone and formamide
Authors: Wang Liuting , Yang Tingting , Wang Zhen , Xu Yugao , Feng Gang
Published: November 2022

The binding topologies and strength of amide–aldehyde interactions were explored by rotational spectroscopy and computations.
Self-adaptive structure and catalytic performance of the Pt–Sn/Al2O3 propane dehydrogenation catalyst regenerated by dichloroethane oxychlorination
Authors: Zhao Fang-Cheng , Yang Huan , Sui Zhi-Jun , Zhu Yi-An , Chen De , Zhou Xing-Gui
Published: November 2022

Oxychlorination regeneration is an important and effective regeneration method for Pt based catalysts for propane dehydrogenation.
A ‘click’ chemistry approach to novel entinostat (MS-275) based class I histone deacetylase proteolysis targeting chimeras
Authors: Cross Jasmine M. , Coulson Megan E. , Smalley Joshua P. , Pytel Wiktoria A. , Ismail Ozair , Trory Justin S. , Cowley Shaun M. , Hodgkinson James T.
Published: November 2022

Click chemistry was utilised to prepare a library of PROTACs based on entinostat a class I histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor in clinical trials.
Defining atherosclerotic plaque biology by mass spectrometry-based omics approaches
Authors: Chandran Mahesh , S. Sudhina , Abhirami  , Chandran Akash , Jaleel Abdul , Plakkal Ayyappan Janeesh
Published: November 2022

Compilation of the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, LC-MS-based proteomics and metabolomics approaches, their advancements, and the MS-based major findings specifically from the atheroma of human clinical samples to date.
Multiscale modulation of vanadium oxidesviaone-step facile reduction to synergistically boost zinc-ion battery performance
Authors: Wu Fangfang , Zheng Dong , Wang Youwei , Liu Dongshu , Wang Yuxi , Meng Shibo , Xu Xilian , Liu Wenxian , Shi Wenhui , Cao Xiehong
Published: November 2022

Accordion-like V10O24·12H2O was preparedviaone-step reduction of commercial V2O5. Benefiting from the interlayer spacing, mixed valence, and superstructure, a superior performance was obtained for V10O24·12H2O as compared to that of V2O5.
Efficient Ce3+ → Tb3+ energy transfer pairs with thermal stability and internal quantum efficiency close to unity
Authors: Ni Quwei , Huo Jiansheng , Liu Jiachun , Yan Haojun , Zhu Qijian , Li Jieying , Long Chenggang , Wang Qianming
Published: November 2022

The incorporation of Ce3+–Tb3+ pairs has been reported in the Ca3Lu2Si6O18 (CLSO) host for identifying a novel green-emitting material with extremely high internal quantum efficiency (close to unity) and excellent thermal stability.
Instant in situ formation of a polymer film at the water–oil interface
Authors: Coppola Sara , Miccio Lisa , Wang Zhe , Nasti Giuseppe , Ferraro Vincenzo , Maffettone Pier Luca , Vespini Veronica , Castaldo Rachele , Gentile Gennaro , Ferraro Pietro
Published: November 2022

A completely new method for easy and quick formation of a thin polymer film at the special setting of a stratified oil/water interface. Morphological SEM and quantitative full-field characterization have been reported using digital holography.
Polymers based on thieno[3,4-c]pyrrole-4,6-dione and pyromellitic diimide by CH–CH arylation reaction for high-performance thin-film transistors
Authors: Nassar Gamal M. , Chung Jeyon , Trinh Cuc Kim , El-Shehawy Ashraf A. , El-Barbary Ahmed A. , Kang Youngjong , Lee Jae-Suk
Published: November 2022

The homopolymers P1, P2 and P3 were successfully synthesized by direct CH–CH arylation polymerization in an eco-friendly one-step coupling reaction. They present n-type properties for potential applications as acceptor polymers.
Can a shock-induced phonon up-pumping model relate to impact sensitivity of molecular crystals, polymorphs and cocrystals?
Authors: Bidault X. , Chaudhuri S.
Published: November 2022

The model predicts impact sensitivity of mono-molecular crystals with 90% accuracy on a log-scale, with the ability to discriminate polymorphs, but it does not transfer well to cocrystals.
Electronic structure of strain-tunable Janus WSSe–ZnO heterostructures from first-principles
Authors: Peterson E. A. , Debela T. T. , Gomoro G. M. , Neaton J. B. , Asres G. A.
Published: November 2022

Using strain engineering to optimize novel heterostructure materials to produce hydrogen from water.
Effect of mussel-inspired polydopamine on the reinforced properties of 3D printed β-tricalcium phosphate/polycaprolactone scaffolds for bone regeneration
Authors: Ho Chia-Che , Chen Yi-Wen , Wang Kan , Lin Yen-Hong , Chen Ta-Cheng , Shie Ming-You
Published: November 2022

3D printed mussel-inspired polydopamine-coated β-TCP/polycaprolactone scaffolds have been considered potential grafts that facilitated not only the physicochemical behaviors but also stimulated the formation of neo-bone tissue in femur defects.
Correction: Design of foldable, responsively drug-eluting polyacrylic intraocular lens bulk materials for prevention of postoperative complications
Authors: Hong Yueze , Zou Haoyu , Hu Yulin , Fei Fan , Liang Lin , Liu Dong , Han Yuemei , Lin Quankui
Published: November 2022

Correction for ‘Design of foldable, responsively drug-eluting polyacrylic intraocular lens bulk materials for prevention of postoperative complications’ by Yueze Hong et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2022, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1039/d2tb01974d.
The role of the commercial nucleating agent HPN-68L in the stretchable and electrical properties of solvent vapor annealed P3HT
Authors: Shan Hongtao , He Jiaxin , Zhu Bingyan , Zhou Jianjun , Huo Hong
Published: November 2022

For P3HT above a certain molecular weight, the addition of a nucleating agent is a novel and effective method for improving its conductivity without significantly reducing the COS when the P3HT film is annealed by a solvent vapor.
Ultralong room-temperature phosphorescence from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by accelerating intersystem crossing within a rigid polymer network
Authors: Meng Xiao , Hu Qian , Wang Xi , Ma Tengfei , Liu Weimin , Zhu Xingjun , Ye Chunhong
Published: November 2022

A water-resistance polymer-based room temperature phosphorescence material (RTP) with an ultralong lifetime and afterglow was achieved by doping PAHs within a rigid polymeric network duringin situpolymerization.
Properties of luminous red supergiant stars in the Magellanic Clouds
Authors: de Wit S. , Bonanos A.Z. , Tramper F. , Yang M. , Maravelias G. , Boutsia K. , Britavskiy N. , Zapartas E.
Published: November 2022

Context. There is evidence that some red supergiants (RSGs) experience short-lived phases of extreme mass loss, producing copious amounts of dust. These episodic outburst phases help strip the hydrogen envelope from evolved massive stars, drastically affecting their evolution. However, to date, the observational data of episodic mass loss is limited.

Aims. This paper aims to derive surface properties of a spectroscopic sample of 14 dusty sources in the Magellanic Clouds using the Baade telescope. These properties can be used for future spectral energy distribution fitting studies to measure the mass-loss rates from present circumstellar dust expelled from the star through outbursts.

Methods. We applied MARCS models to obtain the effective temperature (Teff) and extinction (AV) from the optical TiO bands. We used a χ2 routine to determine the model that best fits the obtained spectra. We computed the Teff using empirical photometric relations and compared this to our modelled Teff.

Results. We have identified a new yellow supergiant and spectroscopically confirmed eight new RSGs and one bright giant in the Magellanic Clouds. Additionally, we observed a supergiant B[e] star and find that the spectral type has changed compared to previous classifications, confirming that the spectral type is variable over decades. For the RSGs, we obtained the surface and global properties, as well as the extinction (AV).

Conclusions. Our method has picked up eight new, luminous RSGs. Despite selecting dusty RSGs, we find values for AV that are not as high as expected given the circumstellar extinction of these evolved stars. The most remarkable object from the sample, LMC3, is an extremely massive and luminous evolved massive star and may be grouped amongst the largest and most luminous RSGs known in the Large Magellanic Cloud (log(L*/L⊙) ~ 5.5 and R = 1400 R⊙).
TOI-969: a late-K dwarf with a hot mini-Neptune in the desert and an eccentric cold Jupiter
Authors: Lillo-Box J. , Gandolfi D. , Armstrong D. J. , Collins K. A. , Nielsen L. D. , Luque R. , Korth J. , Sousa S. G. , Quinn S. N. , Acuña L. , Howell S. B. , Morello G. , Hellier C. , Giacalone S. , Hoyer S. , Stassun K. , Palle E. , Aguichine A. , Mousis O. , Adibekyan V. , Azevedo Silva T. , Barrado D. , Deleuil M. , Eastman J. D. , Fukui A. , Hawthorn F. , Irwin J. M. , Jenkins J. M. , Latham D. W. , Muresan A. , Narita N. , Persson C. M. , Santerne A. , Santos N. C. , Savel A. B. , Osborn H. P. , Teske J. , Wheatley P. J. , Winn J. N. , Barros S. C. C. , Butler R. P. , Caldwell D. A. , Charbonneau D. , Cloutier R. , Crane J. D. , Demangeon O. D. S. , Díaz R. F. , Dumusque X. , Esposito M. , Falk B. , Gill H. , Hojjatpanah S. , Kreidberg L. , Mireles I. , Osborn A. , Ricker G. R. , Rodriguez J. E. , Schwarz R. P. , Seager S. , Serrano Bell J. , Shectman S. A. , Shporer A. , Vezie M. , Wang S. X. , Zhou G.
Published: November 2022

Context. The current architecture of a given multi-planetary system is a key fingerprint of its past formation and dynamical evolution history. Long-term follow-up observations are key to complete their picture.

Aims. In this paper, we focus on the confirmation and characterization of the components of the TOI-969 planetary system, where TESS detected a Neptune-size planet candidate in a very close-in orbit around a late K-dwarf star.

Methods. We use a set of precise radial velocity observations from HARPS, PFS, and CORALIE instruments covering more than two years in combination with the TESS photometric light curve and other ground-based follow-up observations to confirm and characterize the components of this planetary system.

Results. We find that TOI-969 b is a transiting close-in (Pb ~ 1.82 days) mini-Neptune planet (mb = 9.1−1.0+1.1 M⊕, Rb = 2.765−0.097+0.088 R⊕), placing it on the lower boundary of the hot-Neptune desert (Teq,b = 941 ± 31 K). The analysis of its internal structure shows that TOI-969 b is a volatile-rich planet, suggesting it underwent an inward migration. The radial velocity model also favors the presence of a second massive body in the system, TOI-969 c, with a long period of Pc = 1700−280+290 days, a minimum mass of mc sin ic = 11.3−0.9+1.1 MJup, and a highly eccentric orbit of ec = 0.628−0.036+0.043.

Conclusions. The TOI-969 planetary system is one of the few around K-dwarfs known to have this extended configuration going from a very close-in planet to a wide-separation gaseous giant. TOI-969 b has a transmission spectroscopy metric of 93 and orbits a moderately bright (G = 11.3 mag) star, making it an excellent target for atmospheric studies. The architecture of this planetary system can also provide valuable information about migration and formation of planetary systems.
Die E-Zigarette – Mittel zur Tabakentwöhnung?
Authors: Franzen Klaas , Pankow Wulf , Andreas Stefan
Published: November 2022

Was ist neu?

Tabakentwöhnung in Deutschland. Nachdem der Tabakkonsum über mehrere Jahre rückläufig war, zeigt sich aktuell eine Stagnation bzw. ein Wiederanstieg der Rauchenden in Deutschland. Die Ursachen erscheinen vielfältig, wie z. B. Belastungen durch die Pandemie mit der sozialen Isolation, steigende Lebenshaltungskosten und Krieg in Europa. Bei einem weiterhin stark verbreiteten Tabakkonsum in der deutschen Bevölkerung wird eine evidenzbasierte Tabakentwöhnung nur selten durchgeführt.

Gesundheitsrisiken der E-Zigarette. Nach neueren Studien sind E-Zigaretten an der Pathogenese von Lungenerkrankungen, Herz- und Gefäßschädigungen beteiligt. Zudem wirken ihre Inhaltsstoffe auch karzinogen. Klinische Untersuchungen zum dauerhaften Konsum liegen aber bisher nicht vor.

Wie wirksam ist die E-Zigarette bei der Tabakentwöhnung? E-Zigaretten als Konsumentenprodukt sind den in Leitlinien empfohlenen Nikotin-Ersatzpräparaten und suchthemmenden Medikamenten nicht überlegen. Im therapeutischen Setting sind sie etwas besser wirksam als Nikotin-Ersatzpräparate. Sie werden aber meistens dauerhaft konsumiert und verstetigen so die Nikotinabhängigkeit. Ihr Konsum erhöht die Rückfallgefahr zum Tabakrauchen.

Evidenzbasierte Tabakentwöhnung ambulant und stationär. Trotz der verschiedenen neuen Ansätze, wie Internet-basierte Angebote, App etc., sind Gespräche und Pharmakotherapie der Goldstandard und wirksamer als jede Therapie für sich allein.
Versatile Synthesis of Trisphosphines Bearing Phenylene and Vinylene Backbones Useful for Metal Catalysis and Materials Applications
Authors: Shang Rui , Nakamura Eiichi , Doba Takahiro , Fukuma Shota
Published: November 2022

Trisphosphines, in which two phenylene or vinylene backbones connect three phosphine atoms, belong to an emerging class of ligands in metal-catalyzed organic synthesis and materials applications. However, these ligands were previously known only in a small variety because of the synthetic limitations. We report herein two versatile synthetic routes to a hitherto unavailable variety of trisphosphines. The compounds bearing phenylene backbones were synthesized by sequential addition of two different organolithium reagents to triphenyl phosphite and that with vinylene backbones by stereoretentive addition of lithium diarylphosphide to a cis-bromoalkene. The new trisphosphine compounds will serve as valuable tools for the development of transition-metal-catalyzed reactions and functional materials.
Innominate Artery Compression Syndrome
Authors: Donuru Achala , Kandula Vinay , Madueme Peace
Published: November 2022

Vascular mediated airway compromise is a fairly common clinical scenario. The diagnosis of innominate artery compression may be challenging due to lack of standardized imaging criteria for diagnosis or for surgical intervention.
Early Repair of Aortic Wall Structural Defect by “Net” Endoprosthesis to Arrest the Aneurysm without Interference with Aortic Branch Vessel Perfusion
Authors: Nazari Stefano
Published: November 2022

Current treatments of aortic aneurysm include surgical or endovascular, respectively, anatomical or functional, substitution of the aneurysm tract; however, with these methods, perfusion of at least some collateral branches cannot be fully restored, leading to the risk of paraplegia. We present a novel endovascular “net” prosthesis to strengthen the aortic wall while preserving perfusion of collateral branches. This consists of a polyester mesh “net”-layered conduit in a variable cylindrical shape, which is personalized based on patient computed tomography scan images, and is defined by circular crossing spirals of a thin nitinol wire. The prosthetic conduit, shrunk by compressing the nitinol spirals, can be inserted into the vascular lumen and expanded in situ. Then, the insertion control device can be fully removed. Thus, the, “net” prosthesis, positioned inside the aorta in stable contact with the intimal wall for 2 to 5 months, is colonized by neointima and spontaneously moved deeper into the aortic wall in contact with the media, thus being ideally able to stabilize aortic diameter without interference with collateral branch blood perfusion. This new, (ideally) paraplegia-free procedure is aimed at curing the aortic wall structural defect, thus arresting the aneurysm from further progression. This contrasts with current treatments, indicated by aneurysm dimensions for their implied complication risk, which are actually for prophylaxis of impending rupture or dissection rather than fortification of the natural aorta. Moreover, this new approach can be used alongside open surgical procedures (personalized external aortic root support) as well as a frozen “net” elephant trunk technique, for full aortic stabilization.
Effect of Battery Discharge on the Output from Budget Light-Curing Units
Authors: Al-Zain Afnan O. , Alshehri Ibrahim M. , Jamalellail Hattan M.H. , Price Richard B.
Published: November 2022

Objectives The manufacturers of budget light-curing units (LCUs) often claim to provide high-quality units that are equivalent to LCUs from major manufacturers. This study investigated the effects of battery discharge on the light output from different budget LCUs compared to a major manufacturer.

Materials and Methods Two brands of budget LCUs (LY-A180 and LED-CL) were compared to a control LCU from a major manufacturer (3M). The LCUs were fully charged, and their light outputs were measured over one battery discharge cycle using repeated 10-second exposures at a 0-mm distance.

Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc test.

Results The budget LCUs delivered fluctuating light output values. In their first exposure, the budget LCUs delivered between 205 and 444 mW power, an irradiance between 533 and 1154 mW/cm2, and a radiant exposure between 5.3 and 11.5 J/cm2. As the number of exposures increased, their light output decreased between 24 and 81%, while the control LCU showed only a 4.9% decrease in power and irradiance. The light outputs from the budget LCUs were significantly less than the control LCU, and they were significantly from each other.

Conclusion The budget LCUs tested could not maintain their power, irradiance, and radiant exposure output values as the battery discharged. This supports the recommendation that clinicians should be very cautious when using budget LCUs in their clinical practice.