bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Influences of Solar Wind, ULF Waves, and Substorms on 20 eV–2 MeV Electron Flux (RBSP) Using ARMAX Models
Authors: Simms L. E. , Ganushkina N. Y. , Dubyagin S.
Published: June 2024

Electron fluxes (20 eV–2 MeV, RBSP‐A satellite) show reasonable simple correlation with a variety of parameters (solar wind, IMF, substorms, ultralow frequency (ULF) waves, geomagnetic indices) over L‐shells 2–6. Removing correlation‐inflating common cycles and trends (using autoregressive and moving average terms in an ARMAX analysis) results in a 10 times reduction in apparent association between drivers and electron flux, although many are still statistically significant (p < 0.05). Corrected influences are highest in the 20 eV–1 keV and 1–2 MeV electrons, more modest in the midrange (2–40 keV). Solar wind velocity and pressure (but not number density), IMF magnitude (with lower influence of Bz), SME (a substorm measure), a ULF wave index, and geomagnetic indices Kp and SymH all show statistically significant associations with electron flux in the corrected individual ARMAX analyses. We postulate that only pressure, ULF waves, and substorms are direct drivers of electron flux and compare their influences in a combined analysis. SME is the strongest influence of these three, mainly in the eV and MeV electrons. ULF is most influential on the MeV electrons. Pressure shows a smaller positive influence and some indication of either magnetopause shadowing or simply compression on the eV electrons. While strictly predictive models may improve forecasting ability by including indirect driver and proxy parameters, and while these models may be made more parsimonious by choosing not to explicitly model time series behavior, our present analyses include time series variables in order to draw valid conclusions about the physical influences of exogenous parameters.
Self‐Made Equipment for Automatic Methane Diffusion and Ebullition Measurements From Aquatic Environments
Authors: Sø Jonas Stage , Sand‐Jensen Kaj , Kragh Theis
Published: June 2024

Freshwater ecosystems are believed to account for about half of global methane emissions, but this estimate is uncertain due to few measurements in some geographical regions and most important for our purposes, large local variations. We propose a simple, cheap (<200€), and effective solution to the urgent need for equipment that can provide accurate data on methane emission at high spatial and temporal resolution for many days, across many ecosystems and regions, and with limited inspection. A low‐cost metal oxide semiconductor sensor, placed in a floating chamber equipped with an air pump to flush the chamber's headspace at regular intervals, provides frequent and accurate high‐resolution measurements of diffusive and ebullitive methane emissions from lakes and rivers. We made several improvements that yield more useful data and enable the setup to operate for several days without visual inspection. To test the accuracy of the equipment, we compared its measurements of methane emission to parallel measurements by an expensive, commercially available laser sensor. The correspondence was excellent (R2 ≥ 0.94) and the deviation of measurements was minimal at fluxes within ranges encountered in the field. We also designed an R‐package (FluxSeparator), which associates the large sensor‐generated data sets with diffusive and ebullitive flux activity. Both the sensor setup and the R‐package are flexible and have been made publicly available to encourage others to use and further improve the equipment and calculations.
Promising interlayer sensitization strategy for the construction of high-performance blue hyperfluorescence OLEDs
Authors: Wang Jianghui , Zou Peng , Chen Letian , Bai Zhentao , Liu Hao , Chen Wen-Cheng , Huo Yanping , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhao Zujin
Published: June 2024

Multi-resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR-TADF) materials are promising candidates for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with narrow electroluminescence (EL) spectra. Current researches focus on fabricating hyperfluorescence OLEDs to improve EL efficiencies of MR-TADF emitters by co-doping them with TADF sensitizers in a single host layer. However, in many cases, the polarity of the single host could be not suitable for both blue MR-TADF emitters and blue TADF sensitizers, resulting in broadened EL spectra in high-polar hosts or decreased EL efficiencies in low-polar hosts. Herein, we wish to report an efficient sensitization strategy for blue MR-TADF emitters by constructing an interlayer-sensitizing configuration, in which the blue TADF sensitizers and blue MR-TADF emitters are separated into two closely aligned host layers with high polarity and low polarity, respectively. Based on this strategy, efficient blue hyperfluorescence OLEDs are realized and verified by employing various TADF sensitizers and different MR-TADF emitters, furnishing outstanding external quantum efficiencies of up to 38.8% and narrow EL spectra. These results validate the feasibility and universality of this interlayer sensitization strategy, which provides an effective alternative to high-performance blue hyperfluorescence OLEDs.
Metallaphotoredox deuteroalkylation utilizing thianthrenium salts
Authors: Jiao Mengjie , Zhang Jie , Wang Minyan , Lu Hongjian , Shi Zhuangzhi
Published: June 2024

Deuterium labeling compounds play a crucial role in organic and pharmaceutical chemistry. The synthesis of such compounds typically involves deuterated building blocks, allowing for the incorporation of deuterium atoms and functional groups into a target molecule in a single step. Unfortunately, the limited availability of synthetic approaches to deuterated synthons has impeded progress in this field. Here, we present an approach utilizing alkyl-substituted thianthrenium salts that efficiently and selectively introduce deuterium at the α position of alkyl chains through a pH-dependent HIE process, using D2O as the deuterium source. The resulting α-deuterated alkyl thianthrenium salts, which bear two deuterium atoms, exhibit excellent selectivity and deuterium incorporation in electrophilic substitution reactions. Through in situ formation of isotopically labelled alkyl halides, these thianthrenium salts demonstrate excellent compatibility in a series of metallaphotoredox cross-electrophile coupling with (hetero)aryl, alkenyl, alkyl bromides, and other alkyl thianthrenium salts. Our technique allows for a wide range of substrates, high deuterium incorporation, and precise control over the site of deuterium insertion within a molecule such as the benzyl position, allylic position, or any alkyl chain in between, as well as neighboring heteroatoms. This makes it invaluable for synthesizing various deuterium-labeled compounds, especially those with pharmaceutical significance.
Photochromic luminescence of organic crystals arising from subtle molecular rearrangement
Authors: Zhao Zihao , Cai Yusong , Zhang Qiang , Li Anze , Zhu Tianwen , Chen Xiaohong , Yuan Wang Zhang
Published: June 2024

Photoluminescence (PL) colour-changing materials in response to photostimulus play an increasingly significant role in intelligent applications for their programmability. Nevertheless, current research mainly focuses on photochemical processes, with less attention to PL transformation through uniform aggregation mode adjustment. Here we show photochromic luminescence in organic crystals (e.g. dimethyl terephthalate) with PL varying from dark blue to purple, then to bright orange-red, and finally to red. This change is attributed to the emergence of clusters with red emission, which is barely achieved in single-benzene-based structures, thanks to the subtle molecular rearrangements prompted by light. Crucial to this process are the through-space electron interactions among molecules and moderate short contacts between ester groups. The irradiated crystals exhibit reversible PL transformation upon sufficient relaxation, showing promising applications in information storage and smart optoelectronic devices. This research contributes to the development of smart photochromic luminescent materials with significant PL colour transformations through molecular rearrangement.
Synthetic biodegradable microporous hydrogels for in vitro 3D culture of functional human bone cell networks
Authors: Zauchner Doris , Müller Monica Zippora , Horrer Marion , Bissig Leana , Zhao Feihu , Fisch Philipp , Lee Sung Sik , Zenobi-Wong Marcy , Müller Ralph , Qin Xiao-Hua
Published: June 2024

Generating 3D bone cell networks in vitro that mimic the dynamic process during early bone formation remains challenging. Here, we report a synthetic biodegradable microporous hydrogel for efficient formation of 3D networks from human primary cells, analysis of cell-secreted extracellular matrix (ECM) and microfluidic integration. Using polymerization-induced phase separation, we demonstrate dynamic in situ formation of microporosity (5–20 µm) within matrix metalloproteinase-degradable polyethylene glycol hydrogels in the presence of living cells. Pore formation is triggered by thiol-Michael-addition crosslinking of a viscous precursor solution supplemented with hyaluronic acid and dextran. The resulting microporous architecture can be fine-tuned by adjusting the concentration and molecular weight of dextran. After encapsulation in microporous hydrogels, human mesenchymal stromal cells and osteoblasts spread rapidly and form 3D networks within 24 hours. We demonstrate that matrix degradability controls cell-matrix remodeling, osteogenic differentiation, and deposition of ECM proteins such as collagen. Finally, we report microfluidic integration and proof-of-concept osteogenic differentiation of 3D cell networks under perfusion on chip. Altogether, this work introduces a synthetic microporous hydrogel to efficiently differentiate 3D human bone cell networks, facilitating future in vitro studies on early bone development.
Alkali cation-induced cathodic corrosion in Cu electrocatalysts
Authors: Liu Shikai , Li Yuheng , Wang Di , Xi Shibo , Xu Haoming , Wang Yulin , Li Xinzhe , Zang Wenjie , Liu Weidong , Su Mengyao , Yan Katherine , Nielander Adam C. , Wong Andrew B. , Lu Jiong , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Wang Lei , Canepa Pieremanuele , He Qian
Published: June 2024

The reconstruction of Cu catalysts during electrochemical reduction of CO2 is a widely known but poorly understood phenomenon. Herein, we examine the structural evolution of Cu nanocubes under CO2 reduction reaction and its relevant reaction conditions using identical location transmission electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, in situ X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and ab initio molecular dynamics simulation. Our results suggest that Cu catalysts reconstruct via a hitherto unexplored yet critical pathway - alkali cation-induced cathodic corrosion, when the electrode potential is more negative than an onset value (e.g., −0.4 VRHE when using 0.1 M KHCO3). Having alkali cations in the electrolyte is critical for such a process. Consequently, Cu catalysts will inevitably undergo surface reconstructions during a typical process of CO2 reduction reaction, resulting in dynamic catalyst morphologies. While having these reconstructions does not necessarily preclude stable electrocatalytic reactions, they will indeed prohibit long-term selectivity and activity enhancement by controlling the morphology of Cu pre-catalysts. Alternatively, by operating Cu catalysts at less negative potentials in the CO electrochemical reduction, we show that Cu nanocubes can provide a much more stable selectivity advantage over spherical Cu nanoparticles.
Solar overall water-splitting by a spin-hybrid all-organic semiconductor
Authors: Lin Xinyu , Hao Yue , Gong Yanjun , Zhou Peng , Ma Dongge , Liu Zhonghuan , Sun Yuming , Sun Hongyang , Chen Yahui , Jia Shuhan , Li Wanhe , Guo Chengqi , Zhou Yiying , Huo Pengwei , Yan Yan , Ma Wanhong , Yuan Shouqi , Zhao Jincai
Published: June 2024

Direct solar-to-hydrogen conversion from pure water using all-organic heterogeneous catalysts remains elusive. The challenges are twofold: (i) full-band low-frequent photons in the solar spectrum cannot be harnessed into a unified S1 excited state for water-splitting based on the common Kasha-allowed S0 → S1 excitation; (ii) the H+ → H2 evolution suffers the high overpotential on pristine organic surfaces. Here, we report an organic molecular crystal nanobelt through the self-assembly of spin-one open-shell perylene diimide diradical anions (:PDI2-) and their tautomeric spin-zero closed-shell quinoid isomers (PDI2-). The self-assembled :PDI2-/PDI2- crystal nanobelt alters the spin-dependent excitation evolution, leading to spin-allowed S0S1 → 1(TT) → T1 + T1 singlet fission under visible-light (420 nm~700 nm) and a spin-forbidden S0 → T1 transition under near-infrared (700 nm~1100 nm) within spin-hybrid chromophores. With a triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion, a newly formed S1 excited state on the diradical-quinoid hybrid induces the H+ reduction through a favorable hydrophilic diradical-mediated electron transfer, which enables simultaneous H2 and O2 production from pure water with an average apparent quantum yield over 1.5% under the visible to near-infrared solar spectrum.
Few-layer bifunctional metasurfaces enabling asymmetric and symmetric polarization-plane rotation at the subwavelength scale
Authors: Gokkavas Mutlu , Gundogdu T. F. , Ozbay Ekmel , Serebryannikov Andriy E.
Published: June 2024

We introduce and numerically validate the concept of few-layer bifunctional metasurfaces comprising two arrays of quasiplanar subwavelength resonators and a middle grid (array of rectangular holes) that offer both symmetric and asymmetric transmissions connected, respectively, with symmetric and asymmetric polarization-plane rotation functionalities. The proposed structures are thinner than $$\lambda /7$$

λ
/
7

and free of diffractions. Usually, the structure’s symmetry or asymmetry, i.e. unbroken or broken spatial inversion symmetries, are considered for metasurfaces as prerequisites of the capability of symmetric or asymmetric conversion of linearly polarized waves, respectively. Due to the achieved adjustment of the resonances enabling the rotation of the polarization plane simultaneously for both orthogonal polarizations of the incident wave, the symmetric polarization-plane rotation functionality can be obtained within one subwavelength band, whereas the asymmetric polarization-plane rotation functionality associated with the asymmetric transmission is obtained within another subwavelength band. This combination of the functionalities in one subdiffraction structure is possible due to the optimal choice of the grid parameters, since they may strongly affect the coupling between the two resonator arrays. Although normal incidence is required for the targeted bifunctionality, the variations of the incidence angle can also be exploited for the enrichment of the overall functional capability. Variations of the polarization angle give another important degree of freedom. The connection between the polarization-angle dependence of cross-polarized transmission and capability of symmetric and asymmetric polarization-plane rotation functionalities is highlighted. The feasible designs of the bifunctional metasurfaces are discussed.
Association of interleukin-17F (rs763780) single nucleotide polymorphism with multiple sclerosis and optic neuritis
Authors: Salah Shereen , Sadeq Yousra I. , Mosaad Youssef M. , Elmenshawi Ibrahim E. H. , Tawhid Ziyad M. E.
Published: June 2024

IL-17F single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) can affect IL-17F expression and activity and this can lead to the increased susceptibility to several autoimmune diseases. The aim was to investigate the association of IL-17F (rs763780) SNP with the development of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a cohort of Egyptian patients and to evaluate the effect of this polymorphism on the disease course. IL-17F (rs763780) gene polymorphisms was typed by TaqMan genotyping assay for 231 Egyptians divided into 102 MS patients and 129 healthy controls with matched age and sex. The IL-17F rs763780 C containing genotypes (CT+CC) and C allele have statistically significant increased frequency in MS patients when compared with controls (p = 0.005 and 0.004 respectively) especially in females’ patients (p = 0.005 and 0.006 respectively). The heterozygous CT genotype was associated with the presence of optic neuritis (p = 0.038). The multivariable regression analysis revealed significant associations between smoking, the higher frequency of attacks and the prediction of higher EDSS score (p = 0.032, 0.049 respectively). It can be concluded that the IL-17F rs763780 C containing genotypes (CT and CC) and C allele may be risk factors for the development of MS in the studied Egyptian cohort by a gender-dependent mechanism that contributes to tendency for predisposition in females and optic neuritis is more common in patients carrying the CT heterozygous genotype.
Maximising ecological value and assessing land suitability for sustainable grassland management in Asia’s largest tropical grassland, Western India
Authors: Dey Rupak , Sharma Seema B. , Thakkar Mahesh G.
Published: June 2024

Grasslands are crucial ecosystems that provide numerous ecological services and support biodiversity conservation. Grasslands undergo significant threats from both anthropogenic and natural sources, compromising their ability to maintain biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human well-being. However, grasslands are frequently ignored in sustainable development objectives. Adequate knowledge of how grassland degradation affects ecosystem services is essential for sustainable management and grassland ecological restoration. The Kachchh region in western India harbours a unique grassland ecosystem known as the Banni grassland, which once became the finest grassland in Asia. However, undesirable anthropogenic interventions have accelerated its degradation. This research paper aims to assess the suitability of different land areas in Banni for sustainable grassland restoration, considering ecological value as a primary criterion. In the present research, land suitability for grassland management was assessed using a geographical information system (GIS)-based multi criteria evolution (MCE) method with satellite data and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The ground truthing of the soil samples was carried out alongside. Slope, rainfall, infiltration rate, LULC, geomorphology, soil texture, soil organic carbon, water holding capacity, SAR, CEC, pH, EC, and soil nutrients were among the criteria used. The weights for each criterion were calculated using a pairwise comparison matrix, and the scores were allocated to sub criteria based on field work, expert opinions, and a literature review. The proposed method can be very useful for evaluating the state of the land and can help with the best possible planning for grassland development and conservation. Banni grassland has the potential to be developed into a critical zone observatory (CZO) in the future, and the present study, with further inputs, holds promise for furthering the cause of its sustainable management. Overall, this study underscores the importance of assessing land suitability for sustainable grassland management and highlights the potential for maximising the ecological value of grasslands in western India and beyond.
Early vascular aging determined by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and its impact on ischemic stroke outcome: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Han Minho , Yun Jaeseob , Kim Kwang Hyun , Jung Jae Wook , Kim Young Dae , Heo JoonNyung , Park Eunjeong , Nam Hyo Suk
Published: June 2024

Vascular aging phenotype may be useful in predicting stroke prognosis. In the present study, the relationship between vascular aging phenotypes and outcomes after acute ischemic stroke was investigated. The study included consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke who had brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) measured to assess vascular aging phenotype. The 2.5th and 97.5th percentile age-specific baPWVs were used as cutoffs to define supernormal vascular aging (SUPERNOVA) and early vascular aging (EVA), respectively, and the remainder was considered normal vascular aging (NVA). A total of 2738 patients were enrolled and followed for a median of 38.1 months. The mean age was 67.02 years and 1633 were male. EVA was 67, NVA was 2605, and SUPERNOVA was 66. Compared with NVA, multivariable logistic regression showed EVA was associated with poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≥ 3) at 3 months (odds ratio 2.083, 95% confidence interval 1.147‒3.783). Multivariable Cox regression showed EVA was associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 2.320, 95% confidence interval 1.283‒4.197). EVA was associated with poor functional outcome and all-cause mortality after acute ischemic stroke, especially when diabetes or atrial fibrillation coexisted. These findings indicate the vascular aging phenotype, notably EVA, can aid in identifying high-risk stroke patients.
Age-related effects in magnitude and place-value processing
Authors: Artemenko Christina , Giannouli Vaitsa , Nuerk Hans-Christoph
Published: June 2024

While general cognitive skills decline during aging, numerical skills seem to be mainly preserved. Such skills are essential for an independent life up to old age, e.g., when dealing with money or time. Operating with numbers usually requires number magnitude and place-value processing. The question is whether these processes are negatively affected by aging due to the general cognitive decline or positively affected due to lifelong experience with numbers. Therefore, we investigated age-related changes in the distance and compatibility effects in single-digit, two-digit, and four-digit number comparison. On the one hand, older adults took longer for number processing and showed a smaller distance effect, indicating altered number magnitude representations. On the other hand, older adults were better in place-value processing as indicated by a smaller compatibility effect than in younger adults. We conclude that aging differentially affects basic numerical skills.
Altered immune pathways in patients of temporal lobe epilepsy with and without hippocampal sclerosis
Authors: Che Xiang-Qian , Zhan Shi-Kun , Song Jiao-Jiao , Deng Yu-Lei , Wei-Liu  , Peng-Huang  , Jing-Zhang  , Sun Zhan-Fang , Che Zai-Qian , Liu Jun
Published: June 2024

Over the past decades, the immune responses have been suspected of participating in the mechanisms for epilepsy. To assess the immune related pathway in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), we explored the altered immune pathways in TLE patients with and without hippocampal sclerosis (HS). We analyzed RNA-seq data from 3 TLE-HS and 3 TLE-nonHS patients, including identification of differentially expressed RNA, function pathway enrichment, the protein–protein interaction network and construction of ceRNA regulatory network. We illustrated the immune related landscape of molecules and pathways on human TLE-HS. Also, we identified several differential immune related genes like HSP90AA1 and SOD1 in TLE-HS patients. Further ceRNA regulatory network analysis found SOX2-OT connected to miR-671-5p and upregulated the target gene SPP1 in TLE-HS patients. Also, we identified both SOX2-OT and SPP1 were significantly upregulated in five different databases including TLE-HS patients and animal models. Our findings established the first immune related genes and possible regulatory pathways in TLE-HS patients and animal models, which provided a novel insight into disease pathogenesis in both patients and animal models. The immune related SOX2-OT/miR-671-5p/SPP1 axis may be the potential therapeutic target for TLE-HS.
Potential distribution of three invasive agricultural pests in China under climate change
Authors: Zhang Yanjing , Wan Yaqiong , Wang Chenbin , Chen Jing , Si Qin , Ma Fangzhou
Published: June 2024

Invasive pests reduce biodiversity and ecosystem service functions, thereby leading to economic and also agricultural losses. Banana skipper (Erionota torus Evans), red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), and coconut caterpillar (Opisina arenosella Walker) are invasive insect pests in the palm-growing regions and they have had serious consequences for the planting of bananas (Musa nana), palms (Trachycarpus fortune) and coconut (Cocos nucifera). Based on screened occurrence data, the present research utilized Maximum Entropy model (Maxent) to simulate the distribution dynamics of these three invasive insects in China, under current and future climate (2050s, 2070s, 2090s) in two shared socio-economic pathways (SSPs: 126 and 585) of the newly released coupled model intercomparison project phase6 (CMIP6). The results show that: (1) Under current and future climate conditions, all model groups exhibited an AUC value exceeding 0.92, which shows that the model prediction results are very good;(2) The suitable habitat area of E. torus Evans remains relatively stable with some expansion in the SSP126 of 2090s and some contraction in the SSP585 of 2090s. The suitable habitat area of R. ferrugineus showed an overall contraction, with substantial contraction in the SSP585 of 2090s.The suitable habitat area of O. arenosella has an overall expansion, with the most pronounced expansion in the SSP585 of 2070s; (3) The current centroid of suitable habitats for R. ferrugineus and E. torus Evans is located in Guangxi Province and wholely shift toward the south direction under future climate. The centroid of suitable habitats for O. arenosella is currently located in the northeastern maritime area of Hainan Province and will shift toward the north direction under future climate; (4) Temperature, precipitation and Human disturbance factors (Population density and Human influence index) were crucial variables for describing the distribution of the three species. For E. torus Evans in particular, percentage contributions of Population density was up to 31.4, which is only 0.1 different from ranked first Bio19 (Precipitation of the coldest quarter). The dynamics of habitats of these three species and the correlating driver factors proposed in this work provide essential insights into future spatial management of the three invasive insects in China. Our work is necessary and timely in identifying newly areas at high risk of expansion of the three invasive insects in the future, then suggesting strategic control measures to prevent their spread, and finally providing scientific evidence for the early prevention and rapid response to the three invasive insects.
Probabilistic sunspot predictions with a gated recurrent units-based combined model guided by pinball loss
Authors: Cui Zhesen , Ding Zhe , Xu Jing , Zhang Shaotong , Wu Jinran , Lian Wei
Published: June 2024

Sunspots play a crucial role in both weather forecasting and the monitoring of solar storms. In this work, we propose a novel combined model for sunspot prediction using improved gated recurrent units (GRU) guided by pinball loss for probabilistic forecasts. Specifically, we optimize the GRU parameters using the slime mould algorithm and employ a seasonal-trend decomposition procedure based on loess to tackle challenges related to sequence prediction, such as self-correlations and non-stationarity. To address prediction uncertainty, we replace the traditional $$l_2$$

l
2

-norm loss with pinball loss. This modification extends the conventional GRU-based point forecasting to a probabilistic framework expressed as quantiles. We apply our proposed model to analyze a well-established historical sunspot dataset for both single- and multi-step ahead forecasting. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our combined model in predicting sunspot values, surpassing the performance of other existing methods.
Subretinal fluid in macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Jee Donghyun , Park Soyoung , Kwon Jin-woo
Published: June 2024

We identified characteristics of patients with subretinal fluid (SRF) in macular edema (ME) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and determined their clinical outcomes after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment. Fifty-seven eyes of BRVO patients with ME were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of SRF at diagnosis. We compared the aqueous profiles, ocular and systemic characteristics at baseline, and the clinical outcomes. The SRF group had significantly greater central subfield thickness (CST) values and poorer best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline compared to the non-SRF group. The former group had significantly higher aqueous levels of interleukin-8, VEGF, and placental growth factor. CST reduction and BCVA improvement during treatment were significantly greater in the SRF group than in the non-SRF group. Consequently, CST values were significantly lower in the SRF group than in the non-SRF group at 12 months, when BCVA did not differ significantly between the two groups. The SRF group required more frequent anti-VEGF treatment over 12 months and exhibited a higher rate of macular atrophy. Based on the aqueous profiles and the number of treatments required, the presence of SRF in BRVO patients appears to be associated with higher disease activity.
KPC-luciferase-expressing cells elicit an anti-tumor immune response in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Ferrari Daniele Pereira , Ramos-Gomes Fernanda , Alves Frauke , Markus M. Andrea
Published: June 2024

Mouse models for the study of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are well-established and representative of many key features observed in human PDAC. To monitor tumor growth, cancer cells that are implanted in mice are often transfected with reporter genes, such as firefly luciferase (Luc), enabling in vivo optical imaging over time. Since Luc can induce an immune response, we aimed to evaluate whether the expression of Luc could affect the growth of KPC tumors in mice by inducing immunogenicity. Although both cell lines, KPC and Luc transduced KPC (KPC-Luc), had the same proliferation rate, KPC-Luc tumors had significantly smaller sizes or were absent 13 days after orthotopic cell implantation, compared to KPC tumors. This coincided with the loss of bioluminescence signal over the tumor region. Immunophenotyping of blood and spleen from KPC-Luc tumor-bearing mice showed a decreased number of macrophages and CD4+ T cells, and an increased accumulation of natural killer (NK) cells in comparison to KPC tumor mice. Higher infiltration of CD8+ T cells was found in KPC-Luc tumors than in their controls. Moreover, the immune response against Luc peptide was stronger in splenocytes from mice implanted with KPC-Luc cells compared to those isolated from KPC wild-type mice, indicating increased immunogenicity elicited by the presence of Luc in the PDAC tumor cells. These results must be considered when evaluating the efficacy of anti-cancer therapies including immunotherapies in immunocompetent PDAC or other cancer mouse models that use Luc as a reporter for bioluminescence imaging.
Resonant-mode engineering for additive reflective structural colors with high brightness and high color purity
Authors: Kwak Hojae , Jung Incheol , Kim Dohyun , Ju Seongcheol , Choi Soyoung , Kang Cheolhun , Kim Hyeonwoo , Baac Hyoung Won , Ok Jong G. , Lee Kyu-Tae
Published: June 2024

We present quad-layered reflective structural color filters generating vivid additive primary colors by controlling a mode number in a Fabry–Perot (FP) cavity and an anti-reflective (AR) coating layer, thus accomplishing high spectral contrast which is highly demanded in creating sharp colors. The reflection brightness of fabricated structural color filters is over 78% and a color gamut is comparable to the standard color gamut (sRGB). Higher-order resonant modes are exploited yielding a narrow passband with strong suppression of the reflection at shorter and longer wavelength ranges for a green color, while red and blue colors are produced by employing fundamental resonant modes. Besides, the structural color filters maintain both high brightness and high color purity at oblique incidence angles up to 40° due to a small angle of refraction by a cavity medium with high refractive index. Moreover, a large-scale fabrication is enabled owing to the simplicity of a device structure, where thin film deposition is used. The scheme presented in this work may open the door to a number of applications, such as reflective displays, imaging devices, colored photovoltaics, and decorations.
SS-31 treatment ameliorates cardiac mitochondrial morphology and defective mitophagy in a murine model of Barth syndrome
Authors: Russo Silvia , De Rasmo Domenico , Rossi Roberta , Signorile Anna , Lobasso Simona
Published: June 2024

Barth syndrome (BTHS) is a lethal rare genetic disorder, which results in cardiac dysfunction, severe skeletal muscle weakness, immune issues and growth delay. Mutations in the TAFAZZIN gene, which is responsible for the remodeling of the phospholipid cardiolipin (CL), lead to abnormalities in mitochondrial membrane, including alteration of mature CL acyl composition and the presence of monolysocardiolipin (MLCL). The dramatic increase in the MLCL/CL ratio is the hallmark of patients with BTHS, which is associated with mitochondrial bioenergetics dysfunction and altered membrane ultrastructure. There are currently no specific therapies for BTHS. Here, we showed that cardiac mitochondria isolated from TAFAZZIN knockdown (TazKD) mice presented abnormal ultrastructural membrane morphology, accumulation of vacuoles, pro-fission conditions and defective mitophagy. Interestingly, we found that in vivo treatment of TazKD mice with a CL-targeted small peptide (named SS-31) was able to restore mitochondrial morphology in tafazzin-deficient heart by affecting specific proteins involved in dynamic process and mitophagy. This agrees with our previous data showing an improvement in mitochondrial respiratory efficiency associated with increased supercomplex organization in TazKD mice under the same pharmacological treatment. Taken together our findings confirm the beneficial effect of SS-31 in the amelioration of tafazzin-deficient dysfunctional mitochondria in a BTHS animal model.
Evaluation of thermal conductivity models and dielectric properties in metal oxide-filled poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) composites
Authors: Bleija Miks , Platnieks Oskars , Starkova Olesja , Macutkevič Jan , Tsyhanok Dzmitry , Orlova Liga , Gaidukovs Sergejs
Published: June 2024

This study examines how various nanofillers impact thermal conductivity, dielectric characteristics, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding potential of bio-based and biodegradable poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PBSA). TiO2, NiFe2O4, Fe2O3, and Fe3O4 were selected as fillers for nanocomposites at 4–50 vol.% (12–81 wt.%). The nanocomposites were analyzed in three domains: structural (scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping, density, tensile testing), thermal (light flash analysis, literature models), and dielectric (AC conductivity, permittivity, EM shielding effectiveness (SE)). The investigated fillers showed good dispersion and compatibility with the PBSA matrix. LFA was analyzed according to literature models, where Bruggeman and Agari models showed the best fit at high concentrations. The dielectric analysis revealed that most of the nanocomposites did not reach percolation; thus, producing thermally conductive plastics that are electrically insulating. EMI shielding was limited to frequencies below 10 Hz, with the notable exception of Fe3O4 (100 nm and loading of > 25 vol.%), which showed shielding at frequencies up to 105 Hz. The investigated composites based on a biodegradable polyester and abundant metal oxide nanofillers are suitable for the production of cheap, ecological, and electrically insulating heat dissipation solutions required for modern and lightweight applications.
Vectorial drivers of malaria transmission in Jabi Tehnan district, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Belay Aklilu K. , Asale Abebe , Sole Catherine L. , Kinya Fiona , Yusuf Abdullahi A. , Torto Baldwyn , Mutero Clifford M. , Tchouassi David P.
Published: June 2024

Among the factors affecting the effectiveness of malaria control is poor knowledge of the entomologic drivers of the disease. We investigated anopheline populations as part of a baseline study to implement house screening of windows and doors as a supplementary malaria control tool towards elimination in Jabi Tehnan district, Amhara Regional State of Ethiopia. The samples were surveyed monthly using CDC light traps between June 2020 and May 2021. Mosquito trap density (< 3 mosquitoes/trap) was low, however, with a high overall Plasmodium sporozoite rate (9%; indoor = 4.3%, outdoor = 13.1%) comprising P. falciparum (88.9%) and P. vivax (11.1%). Anopheles gambiae s.l., mostly An. arabiensis, comprised > 80% of total anopheline captures and contributed ~ 42% of Plasmodium-infected mosquitoes. On the other hand, morphologically scored Anopheles funestus s.l., constituting about 6% of anopheline collections, accounted for 50% of sporozoite-infected mosquitoes. Most of the infected An. funestus s.l. specimens (86.7%) were grouped with previously unknown or undescribed Anopheles species previously implicated as a cryptic malaria vector in the western Kenyan highlands, confirming its wider geographic distribution in eastern Africa. Other species with Plasmodium infection included An. longipalpis C, An. theileri, An. demillioni, and An. nili. Cumulatively, 77.8% of the infected mosquitoes occurred outdoors. These results suggest efficient malaria parasite transmission despite the low vector densities, which has implications for effective endpoint indicators to monitor malaria control progress. Additionally, the largely outdoor infection and discovery of previously unknown and cryptic vectors suggest an increased risk of residual malaria transmission and, thus, a constraint on effective malaria prevention and control.
Lyophilized cell-free supernatants of Limosilactobacillus fermentum T0701 exhibited antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Sornsenee Phoomjai , Surachat Komwit , Wong Thanawin , Kaewdech Apichat , Saki Morteza , Romyasamit Chonticha
Published: June 2024

Helicobacter pylori is a prominent gastrointestinal pathogen associated with various gastrointestinal illnesses. It presents substantial health risks due to its antibiotic resistance. Therefore, it is crucial to identify alternative treatments for H. pylori infections. Limosilactobacillus spp exhibit probiotic properties with beneficial effects in humans; however, the mechanisms by which it counteracts H. pylori infection are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Limosilactobacillus fermentum T0701 lyophilized cell-free supernatants (LCFS) against H. pylori. The LCFS has varying antimicrobial activities, with inhibition zones of up to 10.67 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bacterial concentration of LCFS are 6.25–25.00 mg/mL and 6.25 mg/mL to > 50.00 mg/mL, respectively, indicating its capability to inhibit H. pylori. There is morphological damage observed in H. pylori treated with LCFS. Additionally, H. pylori adhesion to AGS cells (human gastric adenocarcinoma epithelial cells) reduces by 74.23%, highlighting the LCFS role in preventing bacterial colonization. Moreover, LCFS exhibits no cytotoxicity or morphological changes in AGS cells, and with no detected virulence or antimicrobial resistance genes, further supporting its safety profile. L. fermentum T0701 LCFS shows promise as a safe and effective non-toxic agent against H. pylori, with the potential to prevent gastric colonization.
Development and validation of an interpretable model for predicting sepsis mortality across care settings
Authors: Lee Young Seok , Han Seungbong , Lee Ye Eun , Cho Jaehwa , Choi Young Kyun , Yoon Sun-Young , Oh Dong Kyu , Lee Su Yeon , Park Mi Hyeon , Lim Chae-Man , Moon Jae Young ,   the Korean Sepsis Alliance (KSA) Investigators, Hong Sang‑Bum , Hong Suk‑Kyung , Suh Gee Young , Jeon Kyeongman , Ko Ryoung‑Eun , Cho Young‑Jae , Lee Yeon Joo , Lim Sung Yoon , Park Sunghoon , Heo Jeongwon , Lee Jae‑myeong , Kim Kyung Chan , Chang Youjin , Lee Sang‑Min , Cho Woo Hyun , Kwak Sang Hyun , Lee Heung Bum , Ahn Jong‑Joon , Seong Gil Myeong , Lee Song I. , Park Tai Sun , Lee Su Hwan , Choi Eun Young , Kang Hyung Koo
Published: June 2024

There are numerous prognostic predictive models for evaluating mortality risk, but current scoring models might not fully cater to sepsis patients’ needs. This study developed and validated a new model for sepsis patients that is suitable for any care setting and accurately forecasts 28-day mortality. The derivation dataset, gathered from 20 hospitals between September 2019 and December 2021, contrasted with the validation dataset, collected from 15 hospitals from January 2022 to December 2022. In this study, 7436 patients were classified as members of the derivation dataset, and 2284 patients were classified as members of the validation dataset. The point system model emerged as the optimal model among the tested predictive models for foreseeing sepsis mortality. For community-acquired sepsis, the model’s performance was satisfactory (derivation dataset AUC: 0.779, 95% CI 0.765–0.792; validation dataset AUC: 0.787, 95% CI 0.765–0.810). Similarly, for hospital-acquired sepsis, it performed well (derivation dataset AUC: 0.768, 95% CI 0.748–0.788; validation dataset AUC: 0.729, 95% CI 0.687–0.770). The calculator, accessible at https://avonlea76.shinyapps.io/shiny_app_up/, is user-friendly and compatible. The new predictive model of sepsis mortality is user-friendly and satisfactorily forecasts 28-day mortality. Its versatility lies in its applicability to all patients, encompassing both community-acquired and hospital-acquired sepsis.
Partitioning into ER membrane microdomains impacts autophagic protein turnover during cellular aging
Authors: Prokisch Simon , Büttner Sabrina
Published: June 2024

Eukaryotic membranes are compartmentalized into distinct micro- and nanodomains that rearrange dynamically in response to external and internal cues. This lateral heterogeneity of the lipid bilayer and associated clustering of distinct membrane proteins contribute to the spatial organization of numerous cellular processes. Here, we show that membrane microdomains within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of yeast cells are reorganized during metabolic reprogramming and aging. Using biosensors with varying transmembrane domain length to map lipid bilayer thickness, we demonstrate that in young cells, microdomains of increased thickness mainly exist within the nuclear ER, while progressing cellular age drives the formation of numerous microdomains specifically in the cortical ER. Partitioning of biosensors with long transmembrane domains into these microdomains increased protein stability and prevented autophagic removal. In contrast, reporters with short transmembrane domains progressively accumulated at the membrane contact site between the nuclear ER and the vacuole, the so-called nucleus-vacuole junction (NVJ), and were subjected to turnover via selective microautophagy occurring specifically at these sites. Reporters with long transmembrane domains were excluded from the NVJ. Our data reveal age-dependent rearrangement of the lateral organization of the ER and establish transmembrane domain length as a determinant of membrane contact site localization and autophagic degradation.
An economic framework for assessing the impact of domestic mining policies on affordable energy transition
Authors: Fikru Mahelet G.
Published: June 2024

The global transition towards sustainable energy sources necessitates a delicate balance between incentivizing domestic mineral inputs and ensuring affordable energy transition. This paper investigates a diverse set of policies aimed at promoting domestic mining and their implications for achieving an affordable energy transition. Through a comprehensive economic framework, we analyze the effects of demand and supply-side policies on import reliance, production costs, and the overall progress of the energy transition. By examining various scenarios and their outcomes, we provide insights into the potential challenges and opportunities associated with designing mineral policies that facilitate both domestic mining growth and affordable clean energy technologies. Our findings highlight the importance of striking a balance between promoting domestic resources and ensuring affordability in the pursuit of a sustainable energy future.
Artificially designed synthetic promoter for a high level of salt induction using a cis-engineering approach
Authors: Bhadouriya Sneha Lata , Karamchandani Arti Narendra , Nayak Namitha , Mehrotra Sandhya , Mehrotra Rajesh
Published: June 2024

This work aimed to design a synthetic salt-inducible promoter using a cis-engineering approach. The designed promoter (PS) comprises a minimal promoter sequence for basal-level expression and upstream cis-regulatory elements (CREs) from promoters of salinity-stress-induced genes. The copy number, spacer lengths, and locations of CREs were manually determined based on their occurrence within native promoters. The initial activity profile of the synthesized PS promoter in transiently transformed N. tabacum leaves shows a seven-fold, five-fold, and four-fold increase in reporter GUS activity under salt, drought, and abscisic acid stress, respectively, at the 24-h interval, compared to the constitutive CaMV35S promoter. Analysis of gus expression in stable Arabidopsis transformants showed that the PS promoter induces over a two-fold increase in expression under drought or abscisic acid stress and a five-fold increase under salt stress at 24- and 48-h intervals, compared to the CaMV35S promoter. The promoter PS exhibits higher and more sustained activity under salt, drought, and abscisic acid stress compared to the constitutive CaMV35S.
Flexible silk-fibroin-based microelectrode arrays for high-resolution neural recording
Authors: Ding Jie , Zeng Mingze , Tian Yuan , Chen Zhihong , Qiao Zi , Xiao Zhanwen , Wu Chengheng , Wei Dan , Sun Jing , Fan Hongsong
Published: June 2024

A bio-based MEA is reported for building a flexible and highly conductive neural electrode. The advances in seamless integration with tissue and post-coating-induced low impedance result in high-precision recording of multimodal weak signals.
Controllable phase transition dependent photoinduced charge separation in CuFe2O4 for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Hou Dongfen , Tian Jingqi , Wei Jingying , Jia Dailing , Ma Ke , Xue Huaiguo , Jiang Tengfei
Published: June 2024

The photoinduced charge separation in CuFe2O4 is controlled by the phase transition for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Dendrite-free solid-state lithium batteries enabled by a fluorine doped Li7La3Zr2O12 composite electrolyte and LiAlF4 interphase
Authors: Mao Yuezhen , Mi Fanghui , Wang Tianyuan , Zhang Zhijun , Sun Chunwen
Published: June 2024

LLZOF0.2 CSE  and Li@AlF3 anode are constructed to enhance the performance of SSLMBs. Theoretical calculations proved that LLZOF0.2  promotes the dissociation of LiTFSI. The full cells exhibit exceptional electrochemical performance and stability.
Synthesis and properties of anhydrous rare-earth phosphates, monazite and xenotime: a review
Authors: Chong Saehwa , Riley Brian J. , Lu Xiaonan , Du Jincheng , Mahadevan Thiruvillamalai , Hegde Vinay
Published: June 2024

The synthesis methods, crystal structures, and general properties of anhydrous monazite and xenotime (REPO4) crystalline materials are summarized within this review.
Graphitic carbon nitride supported silver nanoparticles (AgNPs/g-C3N4): synthesis and photocatalytic behavior in the degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid
Authors: Lan Phung Thi , Hao Nguyen Hoang , Hieu Nguyen Trung , Ha Nguyen Thi Thu , Brown C. Trevor , Cam Le Minh
Published: June 2024

Enhancing g-C3N4 photocatalytic performance for 2,4-D degradation by incorporating Ag nanoparticles, aimed at reducing electron–hole recombination and inducing surface plasmon resonance to boost charge carrier generation.