bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membraneless organelles in health and disease: exploring the molecular basis, physiological roles and pathological implications
Authors: Li Yangxin , Liu Yuzhe , Yu Xi-Yong , Xu Yan , Pan Xiangbin , Sun Yi , Wang Yanli , Song Yao-Hua , Shen Zhenya
Published: November 2024

Once considered unconventional cellular structures, membraneless organelles (MLOs), cellular substructures involved in biological processes or pathways under physiological conditions, have emerged as central players in cellular dynamics and function. MLOs can be formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), resulting in the creation of condensates. From neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, aging, and metabolism to cancer, the influence of MLOs on human health and disease extends widely. This review discusses the underlying mechanisms of LLPS, the biophysical properties that drive MLO formation, and their implications for cellular function. We highlight recent advances in understanding how the physicochemical environment, molecular interactions, and post-translational modifications regulate LLPS and MLO dynamics. This review offers an overview of the discovery and current understanding of MLOs and biomolecular condensate in physiological conditions and diseases. This article aims to deliver the latest insights on MLOs and LLPS by analyzing current research, highlighting their critical role in cellular organization. The discussion also covers the role of membrane-associated condensates in cell signaling, including those involving T-cell receptors, stress granules linked to lysosomes, and biomolecular condensates within the Golgi apparatus. Additionally, the potential of targeting LLPS in clinical settings is explored, highlighting promising avenues for future research and therapeutic interventions.
Renal remodeling by CXCL10-CXCR3 axis-recruited mesenchymal stem cells and subsequent IL4I1 secretion in lupus nephritis
Authors: Zhang Qixiang , Shan Yunlong , Shen Luping , Ni Qi , Wang Dandan , Wen Xin , Xu Huanke , Liu Xiaoyan , Zeng Zhu , Yang Jingwen , Wang Yukai , Liu Jiali , Su Yueyan , Wei Ning , Wang Jing , Sun Lingyun , Wang Guangji , Zhou Fang
Published: November 2024

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have shown potential as a therapeutic option for lupus nephritis (LN), particularly in patients refractory to conventional treatments. Despite extensive translational research on MSCs, the precise mechanisms by which MSCs migrate to the kidney and restore renal function remain incompletely understood. Here, we aim to clarify the spatiotemporal characteristics of hUC-MSC migration into LN kidneys and their interactions with host cells in microenvironment. This study elucidates that the migration of hUC-MSCs to the LN kidney is driven by elevated levels of CXCL10, predominantly produced by glomerular vascular endothelial cells through the IFN-γ/IRF1-KPNA4 pathway. Interestingly, the blockade of CXCL10-CXCR3 axis impedes the migration of hUC-MSCs to LN kidney and negatively impacts therapeutic outcomes. Single cell-RNA sequencing analysis underscores the importance of this axis in mediating the regulatory effects of hUC-MSCs on the renal immune environment. Furthermore, hUC-MSCs have been observed to induce and secrete interleukin 4 inducible gene 1 (IL4I1) in response to the microenvironment of LN kidney, thereby suppressing Th1 cells. Genetically ablating IL4I1 in hUC-MSCs abolishes their therapeutic effects and prevents the inhibition of CXCR3+ Th1 cell infiltration into LN kidneys. This study provides valuable insights into the significant involvement of CXCL10-CXCR3 axis in hUC-MSC migration to the LN kidneys and the subsequent remodeling of renal immune microenvironment. Regulating the CXCL10-CXCR3 axis and IL4I1 secretion may be developed as a novel therapeutic strategy to improve treatment outcomes of LN.
EphrinB2-mediated CDK5/ISL1 pathway enhances cardiac lymphangiogenesis and alleviates ischemic injury by resolving post-MI inflammation
Authors: Bai Yingnan , Chen Liming , Guo Fanghao , Zhang Jinghong , Hu Jinlin , Tao Xuefei , Lu Qing , Li Wenyi , Chen Xueying , Gong Ting , Qiu Nan , Jin Yawei , Yang Lifan , Lei Yu , Ruan Chengchao , Jing Qing , Cooke John P. , Wang Shijun , Zou Yunzeng , Ge Junbo
Published: November 2024

EphrinB2 (erythropoietin-producing hepatoma interactor B2) is a key Eph/ephrin family member, promoting angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis during embryonic development. However, the role of EphrinB2 in cardiac lymphangiogenesis following myocardial infarction (MI) and the potential molecular mechanism remains to be demonstrated. This study revealed that EphrinB2 prevented ischemic heart post-MI from remodeling and dysfunction by activating the cardiac lymphangiogenesis signaling pathway. Deletion of EphrinB2 impaired cardiac lymphangiogenesis and aggravated adverse cardiac remodeling and ventricular dysfunction post-MI. At the same time, overexpression of EphrinB2 stimulated cardiac lymphangiogenesis which facilitated cardiac infiltrating macrophage drainage and reduced inflammation in the ischemic heart. The beneficial effects of EphrinB2 on improving clearance of inflammatory response and cardiac function were abolished in Lyve1 knockout mice. Mechanistically, EphrinB2 accelerated cell cycling and lymphatic endothelial cell proliferation and migration by activating CDK5 and CDK5-dependent ISL1 nuclear translocation. EphrinB2 enhanced the transcriptional activity of ISL1 at the VEGFR3 (FLT4) promoter, and VEGFR3 inhibitor MAZ51 significantly diminished the EphrinB2-mediated lymphangiogenesis and deteriorated the ischemic cardiac function. We uncovered a novel mechanism of EphrinB2-driven cardiac lymphangiogenesis in improving myocardial remodeling and function after MI.
NOTCH3 promotes malignant progression of bladder cancer by directly regulating SPP1 and activating PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Liu Changxue , Ge Huaixi , Shen Chengquan , Hu Ding , Zhao Xinzhao , Qin Ruize , Wang Yonghua
Published: November 2024

The biological role and precise molecular mechanisms of Notch receptor 3 (NOTCH3) in the malignant progression of bladder cancer (BLCA) remain unclear. In this study, we found that NOTCH3 was significantly upregulated and associated with poor prognosis in BLCA patients. Functional experiments demonstrated that NOTCH3 knockdown inhibited BLCA cell proliferation, migration, invasion and significantly suppressed tumor growth and metastasis in vivo as well. Mechanically, chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed that NOTCH3 could promote the transcription of secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), a potential downstream target gene of NOTCH3, by binding to the CSL elements in the SPP1 promoter. Moreover, we also found that targeting NOTCH3 inhibited BLCA growth and metastasis by suppressing the SPP1-PI3K/AKT axis. Our study highlights the critical role of NOTCH3-SPP1-PI3K/AKT axis in the malignant progression of BLCA, suggesting that NOTCH3 may be a potential therapeutic target for BLCA.
NEDD4L contributes to ferroptosis and cell growth inhibition in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by facilitating xCT ubiquitination
Authors: Chen Zhen , Wang Weilong , Hou Jinghan , Gao Can , Song Meili , Zhao Zijun , Guan Ruirui , Chen Jingsheng , Wu Huicheng , Abdul Razak Siti Razila , Han Tao , Zhang Junbo , Wang Lidong , Ahmad Nor Hazwani , Li Xiumin
Published: November 2024

The oncogene xCT plays an indispensable role in tumor growth by protecting cancer cells from oxidative stress and ferroptosis. Emerging evidence indicated xCT function is tightly controlled by posttranslational modifications, especially ubiquitination. However, it still remains unclear what specific regulatory mechanism of xCT by ubiquitin ligases in human cancers. Here, we reported that NEDD4L, an E3 ubiquitin ligases, inhibited esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tumor growth and facilitated ferroptosis by ubiquitination of xCT. NEDD4L expression was declined in ESCC and was associated with tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis. Silencing NEDD4L triggered ESCC tumor growth. Meanwhile, knock down of NEDD4L prevented the accumulation of ROS, elevated the level of GSH, reduced the content of MDA in ESCC cells, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis. Mechanistically, NEDD4L directly bound to the ∆CT domain of xCT through its WW and HECT domain. More importantly, NEDD4L promoted xCT degradation by facilitating its polyubiquitination in ESCC cells. Collectively, these findings suggest that NEDD4L is crucial in governing the stability of xCT and mediating ferroptosis in ESCC.
CRISPR screens and lectin microarrays identify high mannose N-glycan regulators
Authors: Tsui C. Kimberly , Twells Nicholas , Durieux Jenni , Doan Emma , Woo Jacqueline , Khosrojerdi Noosha , Brooks Janiya , Kulepa Ayodeji , Webster Brant , Mahal Lara K. , Dillin Andrew
Published: November 2024

Glycans play critical roles in cellular signaling and function. Unlike proteins, glycan structures are not templated from genetic sequences but synthesized by the concerted activity of many genes, making them historically challenging to study. Here, we present a strategy that utilizes CRISPR screens and lectin microarrays to uncover and characterize regulators of glycosylation. We applied this approach to study the regulation of high mannose glycans – the starting structure of all asparagine(N)-linked-glycans. We used CRISPR screens to uncover the expanded network of genes controlling high mannose levels, followed by lectin microarrays to fully measure the complex effect of select regulators on glycosylation globally. Through this, we elucidated how two high mannose regulators – TM9SF3 and the CCC complex – control complex N-glycosylation via regulating Golgi morphology and function. Notably, this allows us to interrogate Golgi function in-depth and reveals that similar disruption to Golgi morphology can lead to drastically different glycosylation outcomes. Collectively, this work demonstrates a generalizable approach for systematically dissecting the regulatory network underlying glycosylation.
Complex charge density waves in simple electronic systems of two-dimensional III2–VI3 materials
Authors: Huang Yu-Ting , Li Zhen-Ze , Chen Nian-Ke , Wang Yeliang , Sun Hong-Bo , Zhang Shengbai , Li Xian-Bin
Published: November 2024

Charge density wave (CDW) is the phenomenon of a material that undergoes a spontaneous lattice distortion and modulation of the electron density. Typically, the formation of CDW is attributed to Fermi surface nesting or electron-phonon coupling, where the CDW vector (QCDW) corresponds to localized extreme points of electronic susceptibility or imaginary phonon frequencies. Here, we propose a new family of multiple CDW orders, including chiral Star-of-David configuration in nine 2D III2–VI3 van der Waals materials, backed by first-principles calculations. The distinct feature of this system is the presence of large and flat imaginary frequencies in the optical phonon branch across the Brillouin zone, which facilitates the formation of the diverse CDW phases. The electronic structures of 2D III2–VI3 materials are relatively simple, with only III-s,p and VI-p orbitals contributing to the formation of the CDW order. Despite that, the CDW transitions involve both metal-to-insulator and insulator-to-insulator transitions, accompanied by a significant increase in the bandgap caused by an enhanced electronic localization. Our study not only reveals a new dimension in the family of 2D CDWs, but is also expected to offer deeper insights into the origins of the CDWs.
Challenges for the human immune system after leaving Earth
Authors: Marchal Shannon , Choukér Alexander , Bereiter-Hahn Jürgen , Kraus Armin , Grimm Daniela , Krüger Marcus
Published: November 2024

From the start of life on Earth, several immune defense mechanisms have evolved to guarantee cellular integrity, homeostasis, and host survival. All these sophisticated balances as shaped by and towards the environmental needs have occurred over hundreds of millions of years. Human spaceflight involves various health hazards, such as higher levels of radiation, altered gravity, isolation and confinement, living in tight quarters, and stress associated with being away from home. A growing body of evidence points towards immunological changes in astronauts, including heightened pro-inflammatory responses, reactivation of latent viruses, and cell-mediated alterations, reflecting a dysbalanced state in astronauts. Simultaneously, enhanced pathogenicity, virulence, and drug resistance properties of microorganisms tip the scale out of favor for prolonged stay in space. As we have learned from the past, we see potential for the human immune system, forged and maintained throughout evolutionary history, to adapt to the space exposome. It is unlikely that this will happen in the short time frames set for current space exploration missions. Instead, major risks to astronaut health need to be addressed first, before humans can safely evolve into the space environment.
Prevalence of diarrheal and its associated factors among children aged under-five years in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gebrerufael Gebru Gebremeskel , Welegebrial Brhane Gebrehiwot , Berhie Kidanemariam Alem , Hagos Bsrat Tesfay , Teklezgi Mehari Gebre
Published: November 2024

Diarrhea is a major health problem in Ethiopia, and the Amhara Regional State is experiencing the highest prevalence rate of diarrhea. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the prevalence and risk factors attributed to diarrhea among children under-five in the Amhara Regional State. The study employed descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the main statistically significant associated factors of diarrhea using Stata version 14. The overall prevalence rate of experiencing diarrhea was 17.7% [95% CI: 15.4, 20.2] in the Amhara Regional State. The multivariable logistic regression model analysis indicated that the risk factors are fourth and above birth order [AOR = 2.95, 95% CI (1.483, 5.85)], gender of child (being male) [AOR = 1.66, 95% CI (1.144, 2.41)], no education level of mother’s [AOR = 4.7, 95% CI (1.01, 22.0)], being age of child 7–11 [AOR = 3.33, 95% CI (1.58, 7.01)] and 12–23 month [AOR = 2.17, 95% CI (1.11, 4.22)], mother’s age at 15–19 years [AOR = 12.2, 95% CI (2.986, 50.2)], mother’s age at 20–24 years [AOR = 6, 95% CI (1.758, 20.8)], and mother’s age at 25–29 years [AOR = 4.48, 95% CI (1.41, 14.2)], and five and greater than family size [AOR = 0.53; 95% CI (0.343, 0.84)] were statistically significant associated with a higher risk of diarrhea. The prevalence of diarrhea in the Amhara Regional State was higher than that at the national level. The study identified gender of a child, education level of the mother’s, birth order, family size, mother’s age, and child’s age as risk factors for diarrhea in children under-five.
Sub-Hz fundamental, sub-kHz integral linewidth self-injection locked 780 nm hybrid integrated laser
Authors: Isichenko Andrei , Hunter Andrew S. , Bose Debapam , Chauhan Nitesh , Song Meiting , Liu Kaikai , Harrington Mark W. , Blumenthal Daniel J.
Published: November 2024

Today’s precision experiments for timekeeping, inertial sensing, and fundamental science place strict requirements on the spectral distribution of laser frequency noise. Rubidium-based experiments utilize table-top 780 nm laser systems for high-performance clocks, gravity sensors, and quantum gates. Wafer-scale integration of these lasers is critical for enabling systems-on-chip. Despite progress towards chip-scale 780 nm ultra-narrow linewidth lasers, achieving sub-Hz fundamental linewidth and sub-kHz integral linewidth has remained elusive. Here we report a hybrid integrated 780 nm self-injection locked laser with 0.74 Hz fundamental and 864 Hz integral linewidths and thermorefractive-noise-limited 100 Hz2/Hz at 10 kHz. These linewidths are over an order of magnitude lower than previous photonic-integrated 780 nm implementations. The laser consists of a Fabry-Pérot diode edge-coupled to an on-chip splitter and a tunable 90 million Q resonator realized in the CMOS foundry-compatible silicon nitride platform. We achieve 2 mW output power, 36 dB side mode suppression ratio, and a 2.5 GHz mode-hop-free tuning range. To demonstrate the potential for quantum atomic applications, we analyze the laser noise influence on sensitivity limits for atomic clocks, quantum gates, and atom interferometer gravimeters. This technology can be translated to other atomic wavelengths, enabling compact, ultra-low noise lasers for quantum sensing, computing, and metrology.
Spectral imaging and analysis of monophasic CT angiography to assess infarct core and penumbra in acute stroke
Authors: Aludin Schekeb , Schmill Lars-Patrick , Langguth Patrick , Jansen Olav , Larsen Naomi , Wodarg Fritz , Klintz Tristan , Seehafer Svea , Horr Agreen
Published: November 2024

Acute stroke imaging includes native CT, CT-angiography (CTA), and CT-perfusion (CTP). CTP assesses the irreversibly damaged infarct core (IC), and the potentially salvageable penumbra (PEN) and distinguishes these from areas of healthy parenchyma (HA). However, it requires additional contrast agent and radiation. Spectral-CT (SCT) enables spectral imaging like e.g., iodine-density imaging, and we evaluated its potential in estimating IC and PEN using monophasic CTA data only. We analysed 28 patients with mediainfarction. CTP-analysis derived areas of IC, PEN and HA on infarction side, as well as their healthy hemisphere’s counterparts were transferred to CTA as Region of interest (ROI). Spectral measurements included Hounsfield-Units in monoenergetic maps (MonoE) at 40 keV, 70 keV, and 120 keV, plus iodine-density (ID) and electron-density (ED) values, totalling 2970 values. Unilateral absolute values and ratios to the healthy counterparts were evaluated. Visual infarct delineation on each map was also rated. In all spectral maps, the infarct areas could be distinguished from the healthy counterpart by absolute values (p < 0.05). IC, PEN and HA could be distinguished from each other by absolute values (p < 0.05) (except for ED), and by the ratio-value formed to the contralateral side (p < 0.05). Detection of IC and PEN were best possible in ID (IC (AUC = 0.9999, p < 0.0001); PEN (AUC = 0.9745, p < 0.0001)) and MonoE40 (IC (AUC = 0.9963, p < 0.0001); PEN (AUC = 0.9622, p < 0.0001)). Differentiation of IC and PEN was also best in ID (AUC = 0.93, p < 0.0001) and MonoE40 (AUC = 0.80, p < 0.0001). Similarly, visual delineation was best too in ID and MonoE40. Accordingly, IC and PEN can be detected and differentiated in monophasic CTA by using SCT-derived spectral maps like ID or MonoE40.
Patient-specific gait pattern in individuals with patellofemoral instability reduces knee joint loads
Authors: Guggenberger Bernhard , Horsak Brian , Habersack Andreas , Kruse Annika , Smith Colin R. , Kainz Hans , Svehlik Martin
Published: November 2024

Patellofemoral instability is influenced by morphological factors and associated with compensational alterations in gait pattern. Recent simulation studies investigated the impact of knee morphology on the stability and loading of the patellofemoral joint but neglected the patient-specific gait pattern. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of patient-specific gait pattern on muscle forces and joint loading in individuals with patellofemoral instability. Musculoskeletal simulations with a model including a twelve degrees of freedom knee joint were performed based on three-dimensional motion capture data of 21 individuals with chronic patellofemoral instability and 17 healthy control participants. The patellofemoral instability group walked with a less flexed knee joint and reduced knee flexion and abduction moments compared to the control group, which required less quadriceps muscle forces. Lower quadriceps muscle forces resulted in a reduction of tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joint contact forces despite similar walking velocities between both groups. Furthermore, we observed decreased lateralizing patella forces in subjects with patella instability, which could potentially reduce the risk of patella dislocation. Our findings highlight the importance of accounting for the patient-specific gait pattern when analysing knee loads in individuals with patellofemoral instability.
Machine learning insights into scapular stabilization for alleviating shoulder pain in college students
Authors: Mabrouk Omar M. , Hady Doaa A. Abdel , Abd El-Hafeez Tarek
Published: November 2024

Non-specific shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal condition, especially among college students, and it can have a negative impact on the patient’s life. Therapists have used scapular stabilization exercises (SSE) to enhance scapular control and mobility. This study investigates the prediction of the impact of scapular stability exercises in treating non-specific shoulder pain, leveraging advanced machine learning techniques for comprehensive evaluation and analysis. Using a diverse range of regression models, including Gamma Regressor, Tweedie Regressor, Poisson Regressor, and others, the study examines the relationship between the effectiveness of various exercises and their impact on shoulder pain management. Furthermore, the study employs optimization techniques, such as Hyperopt, scikit-optimize, optunity, GPyOpt, and Optuna, to fine-tune the exercise protocols for optimal outcomes. The results reveal that scapular stabilization exercises, when optimized using machine learning algorithms, significantly contribute to reducing shoulder pain in college students. Among the optimization techniques, scikit-optimize demonstrated the best performance, resulting in a mean squared error of 0.0085, a mean absolute error of 0.0712, and an impressive R2 score of 0.8501. This indicates that the scikit-optimize approach yielded the most accurate predictions and effectively captured the relationship between the exercises and shoulder pain management. The findings highlight the critical role of scapular stabilization exercise interventions in ameliorating non-specific shoulder pain and underscore the potential of machine learning techniques in optimizing therapeutic strategies for musculoskeletal health management. The utilization of scikit-optimize, in particular, showcases its effectiveness in fine-tuning the exercise protocols for optimal outcomes. The study’s results serve as a crucial stepping stone in developing personalized rehabilitation programs for non-specific shoulder pain, emphasizing the importance of integrating machine learning methodologies in the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders among college students.
Antibody selection and automated quantification of TRPV1 immunofluorescence on human skin
Authors: Jin Yuying , Brennecke Julian , Sodmann Annemarie , Blum Robert , Sommer Claudia
Published: November 2024

Assessing localization of the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) in skin nerve fibers is crucial for understanding its role in peripheral neuropathy and pain. However, information on the specificity and sensitivity of TRPV1 antibodies used for immunofluorescence (IF) on human skin is currently lacking. To find a reliable TRPV1 antibody and IF protocol, we explored antibody candidates from different manufacturers, used rat DRG sections and human skin samples for screening and human TRPV1-expressing HEK293 cells for further validation. Final specificity assessment was done on human skin samples. Additionally, we developed two automated image analysis methods: a Python-based deep-learning approach and a Fiji-based machine-learning approach. These methods involve training a model or classifier for nerve fibers based on pre-annotations and utilize a nerve fiber mask to filter and count TRPV1 immunoreactive puncta and TRPV1 fluorescence intensity on nerve fibers. Both automated analysis methods effectively distinguished TRPV1 signals on nerve fibers from those in keratinocytes, demonstrating high reliability as evidenced by excellent intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values exceeding 0.75. This method holds the potential to uncover alterations in TRPV1 associated with neuropathic pain conditions, using a minimally invasive approach.
Torsional behavior of Ni-rich NiTi alloys obtained by powder metallurgy and hot deformation
Authors: Volodko Sergey , Markova Galina , Yudin Sergey , Permyakova Darya , Alimov Ivan , Evstratov Evgeny , Moskovskikh Dmitry , Khort Alexander , Kasimtsev Anatoly
Published: November 2024

The effects of severe plastic deformation on NiTi alloys’ structure and properties have been extensively studied over the past decades. However, there is a notable lack of systematic data regarding the impact of industrial hot deformation techniques on these alloys. This gap arises from challenges in manufacturing processes related to the unevenness of ingots produced by casting technologies. This study investigates the effects of hot rotary swaging, extrusion, and radial shear rolling on the martensitic transformation, shape memory effect, superelasticity, and damping capacity of NiTi Ni-rich alloys fabricated through powder metallurgy. The properties were investigated under torsional load on wires prepared by spark eroding from deformed rods. Our findings indicate that samples after rolling and extrusion exhibit a superelastic strain of 14 ± 0.5% attributed to a high yield stress of approximately 600–800 MPa and torsional testing providing the material to be fully involved in recovery process. Samples after rolling and swaging demonstrate a high level of reversible strain with a one-way shape memory effect ranging from 5 to 7%. Conversely, extrusion, due to the inhomogeneity of resulting workpieces, induces a complex, multi-stage martensitic transformation that undermines the shape memory effect. Furthermore, all deformation methods except extrusion contribute to increased alloy homogeneity, resulting in a narrower temperature range for martensitic transformations. Rotary swaging notably increases the height of an internal friction peak from 0.015 to 0.045 compared to the undeformed material, whereas rolling gives the lowest value of 0.012 among others. This study provides valuable insights into how hot thermomechanical processing influences the properties of NiTi alloys and shows that powder metallurgy combined with hot deformation can be considered an alternative approach for achieving high functional properties of these alloys.
Hearing health literacy among professional and amateur musicians
Authors: Schurig Eva , Hake Robin , Birke Michael , Derks Deborah , Siedenburg Kai , Kreutz Gunter
Published: November 2024

Musicians create sound that is enjoyable to themselves and their audience, but this same sound also threatens their hearing health due to high sound pressure levels generated by their own and their fellow musicians’ instruments. Here we seek to identify musicians’ hearing health awareness in relation to their coping strategies. 370 professional and 401 amateur musicians in total responded to a questionnaire on hearing health, which included quantitative elements and open-ended questions. Findings reveal that musicians are generally aware of hearing health risks but also indicate a lack of discussion on that topic. However, inasmuch as respondents consider hearing protection as necessary, they articulate justified concerns about its potential impact on quality of performance and musical communication. In sum, musicians show literacy regarding their hearing health, but more guidance and training is needed to ensure effective protective measures.
Intraspecific variation in the functional responses of an invasive tropical freshwater fish under increasing temperature regimes
Authors: Ventura Matteo , Cittadino Simone , Calizza Edoardo , Careddu Giulio , Caputi Simona Sporta , Rossi Loreto , Costantini Maria Letizia
Published: November 2024

Global warming and the introduction of non-native fish represent major threats to freshwater biodiversity worldwide, but their effects have usually been investigated separately. Since most fish are ectotherms, their metabolism and feeding behaviour are highly influenced by temperature. Increasing water temperatures may thus exacerbate the impact of non-native fish, particularly those adapted to warmer conditions, on prey populations. Increasing temperature can also result in divergences between the impacts of females and males, especially in sexually dimorphic species.

The globally invasive tropical guppy Poecilia reticulata Peters, a popular aquarium fish also used for control of mosquito-borne diseases and as a model species in ecological and evolutionary studies, exhibits strong sexual dimorphism and larvivory. This laboratory study examined prey consumption and prey size selection by guppies fed with chironomid larvae under varying temperature conditions. The effect of sex, pregnancy and prey body size on the guppy’s predatory response was also assessed by comparing Functional Responses.

The results highlighted four key points: (1) increased temperature led to increased prey consumption in both females and males by decreasing handling time; (2) prey consumption was disproportionately higher in females than males, regardless of temperature; (3) temperature influenced females’ prey size selection; and (4) pregnancy reduced prey handling time among females.

These findings show that temperature and intraspecific differences influence the feeding response of invasive fish, and they should both be taken into account when investigating and predicting the ecological impact of invasive species on invaded food webs.
Experimental and computational studies on possibility of using glucose diazacrown cryptand as a carrier for anticancer drugs busulfan and lomustine
Authors: Ignaczak Anna , Hoelm Marta , Porwański Stanisław , Jóźwiak Paweł , Krześlak Anna
Published: November 2024

Drug carriers play a very important role in pharmacy, especially in cancer therapy. Most drugs used in the treatment of cancer are characterized by poor solubility in water and lack of selectivity in their toxic effects on normal and cancer cells. Administration of the drug in the form of a complex with an appropriately selected carrier can significantly improve its therapeutic effect and reduce side effects. In this study, the possibility of using the cryptand L1, containing two diazacrown ethers and two saccharide groups, as a potential drug carrier is investigated. In order to determine whether it can form complexes with drugs, the cryptand L1 and its complexes with two anticancer drugs, busulfan (BSF) and lomustine (CCNU), were synthesized. Their selected structural and energetic properties were investigated using both experimental and computational methods. Additionally, water solubility and cytotoxicity tests were performed for all compounds. The measured 1H NMR spectra confirm that L1 forms complexes L1:BSF and L1:CCNU, the solubility of which in water appears to be much higher than that of the pure drugs. The results of DFT calculations made in water described with the implicit solvent model confirm high stability of L1:BSF and L1:CCNU and indicate that L1 forms with the drugs mainly non-inclusion complexes. However, additional tests with 20 H2O molecules explicitly included in the model suggest that both inclusion and non-inclusion forms can occur in a real solution. Cytotoxicity studies show that the macrocycle L1 is non-toxic towards both normal and cancer cells, and its complexes with drugs show greater selectivity towards cancer cells. Interestingly, while the cytotoxicity of the L1:BSF complex is stronger than that of pure BSF, the relationship is opposite in the case of L1:CCNU and CCNU. Therefore, L1 can be considered as a potential drug carrier, especially for those drugs that have weak activity on cancer cells.
Fire, environmental and anthropogenic controls on pantropical tree cover
Authors: Kelley Douglas I. , Gerard France , Dong Ning , Burton Chantelle , Argles Arthur , Li Guangqi , Whitley Rhys , Marthews Toby R. , Roberston Eddy , Weedon Graham P. , Lasslop Gitta , Ellis Richard J. , Bistinas Ioannis , Veenendaal Elmar
Published: November 2024

Explaining tropical tree cover distribution in areas of intermediate rainfall is challenging, with fire’s role in limiting tree cover particularly controversial. We use a novel Bayesian approach to provide observational constraints on the strength of the influence of humans, fire, rainfall seasonality, heat stress, and wind throw on tropical tree cover. Rainfall has the largest relative impact on tree cover (11.6–39.6%), followed by direct human pressures (29.8–36.8%), heat stress (10.5–23.3%) and rainfall seasonality (6.3–22.8%). Fire has a smaller impact (0.2–3.2%) than other stresses, increasing to 0.3–5.2% when excluding human influence. However, we found a potential vulnerability of eastern Amazon and Indonesian forests to fire, with up to 2% forest loss for a 1% increase in burnt area. Our results suggest that vegetation models should focus on fire development for emerging fire regimes in tropical forests and revisit the linkages between rainfall, non-fire disturbances, land use and broad-scale vegetation distributions.
Towards routine proteome profiling of FFPE tissue: insights from a 1,220-case pan-cancer study
Authors: Tüshaus Johanna , Eckert Stephan , Schliemann Marius , Zhou Yuxiang , Pfeiffer Pauline , Halves Christiane , Fusco Federico , Weigel Johannes , Hönikl Lisa , Butenschön Vicki , Todorova Rumyana , Rauert-Wunderlich Hilka , The Matthew , Rosenwald Andreas , Heinemann Volker , Holch Julian , Steiger Katja , Delbridge Claire , Meyer Bernhard , Weichert Wilko , Mogler Carolin , Kuhn Peer-Hendrik , Kuster Bernhard
Published: November 2024

Proteome profiling of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens has gained traction for the analysis of cancer tissue for the discovery of molecular biomarkers. However, reports so far focused on single cancer entities, comprised relatively few cases and did not assess the long-term performance of experimental workflows. In this study, we analyze 1220 tumors from six cancer entities processed over the course of three years. Key findings include the need for a new normalization method ensuring equal and reproducible sample loading for LC-MS/MS analysis across cohorts, showing that tumors can, on average, be profiled to a depth of >4000 proteins and discovering that current software fails to process such large ion mobility-based online fractionated datasets. We report the first comprehensive pan-cancer proteome expression resource for FFPE material comprising 11,000 proteins which is of immediate utility to the scientific community, and can be explored via a web resource. It enables a range of analyses including quantitative comparisons of proteins between patients and cohorts, the discovery of protein fingerprints representing the tissue of origin or proteins enriched in certain cancer entities.
Deciphering the molecular logic of WOX5 function in the root stem cell organizer
Authors: Zhang Ning , Bitterli Pamela , Oluoch Peter , Hermann Marita , Aichinger Ernst , Groot Edwin P , Laux Thomas
Published: November 2024

Plant and animal stem cells receive signals from their surrounding cells to stay undifferentiated. In the Arabidopsis root, the quiescent center (QC) acts as a stem cell organizer, signaling to the neighboring stem cells. WOX5 is a central transcription factor regulating QC function. However, due to the scarcity of QC cells, WOX5 functions in the QC are largely unexplored at a genomic scale. Here, we unveil the transcriptional and epigenetic landscapes of the QC and the role of WOX5 within them. We find that WOX5 functions both as a transcriptional repressor and activator, affecting histone modifications and chromatin accessibility. Our data expand on known WOX5 functions, such as the regulation of differentiation, cell division, and auxin biosynthesis. We also uncover unexpected WOX5-regulated pathways involved in nitrate transport and the regulation of basal expression levels of genes associated with mature root tissues. These data suggest a role for QC cells as reserve stem cells and primed cells for prospective progenitor fates. Taken together, these findings offer insights into the role of WOX5 at the QC and provide a basis for further analyses to advance our understanding of the nature of plant stem cell organizers.
Evaluation of the performance of 3D printed (spectro)photometers based on multi-channel color sensors for colorimetric determinations
Authors: Machado Caio C. S. , Cadeado Alegre N. S. , da Mota Yugo S. N. , Petruci João F. S. , Silva Sidnei G.
Published: November 2024

Portable, 3D-printed (spectro)photometers utilizing digital color sensors effectively quantify dyes in aqueous solutions and beverages.
Nanotechnology at the crossroads of stem cell medicine
Authors: Jain Sweny , Bhatt Jay , Gupta Sharad , Bhatia Dhiraj Devidas
Published: November 2024

Nanotechnology in stem cell medicine is an interdisciplinary field which has gained a lot of interest recently.
Alignment of active sites on Ag–Ni catalysts for highly selective CO2 reduction to CO
Authors: Wang Huangdong , Guo Zhihua , Zhang Heng , Jia Lin , Sun Min , Han Lifeng , Li Haorun , Guo Yan , Zeng Shanghong
Published: November 2024

A bimetallic Ag–Ni/CB electrocatalyst has been developed to enhance the conversion of CO2 into CO. Ag nanoparticles on the surface and Ni atoms within the carbon skeleton serve as active sites for the CO2RR.
Photophysical properties of three-coordinate heteroleptic Cu(i) β-diketiminate triarylphosphine complexes
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Kim Dooyoung , Nguyen Giao , Jiang Chenggang , Chakraborty Soumi , Teets Thomas S.
Published: November 2024

The photophysical properties of three-coordinate copper(i) β-diketiminate triarylphosphine complexes are described, with steric hindrance on the β-diketiminate enabling room-temperature phosphorescence with long lifetimes.
Syntheses and properties of energetic cyclo-pentazolate cocrystals
Authors: Meng Fanle , Ye Zihong , Zhu Hongwei , Sun Lianghe , Lu Ming , Xu Yuangang
Published: November 2024

Cocrystallization can change the molecular composition and crystal structure of cyclo-N5− species to increase its decomposition temperature, density, and energy, and reduce its sensitivity.
Bright and persistent green emitting MgGa2O4:Mn2+ for phosphor converted white light emitting diodes
Authors: Parayil Reshmi T. , Gupta Santosh K. , Abraham Malini , Tyagi Deepak , Das Subrata , Tyagi Mohit , Rawat N. S. , Mohapatra Manoj
Published: November 2024

This work demonstrates an ultralong X-ray and UV-persistent bright green emitting MgGa2O4:Mn spinel phosphor for tunable white light emitting diodes.
A network meta-analysis of the comparative efficacy of different dietary approaches on glycaemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and overweight or obesity
Authors: Yuan Yahui , Chen Chun , Liu Qiaoyun , Luo Yehao , Yang Zhaojun , Lin YuPing , Sun Lu , Fan Guanjie
Published: November 2024

Despite considerable literature supporting the benefit of dietary interventions in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and overweight/obesity, which diet works best is currently unknown.
Bioaccessibility and unravelling of polyphenols, sulforaphane, and indoles biotransformation after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of a novel lactofermented broccoli beverage
Authors: Salas-Millán José Ángel , Aguayo Encarna
Published: November 2024

The dialysed GID influences the release and transformation of bioactive compounds, potentially enhancing their bioaccessibility and subsequent health benefits.
Antigenic epitopes and cross-reactivity analysis of tropomyosin from Oratosquilla oratorio
Authors: Ni Ling-Na , Huan Fei , Gao Shuai , Liu Meng , Wu Ming-Xuan , Gu Yi , Lai Dong , Liu Qing-Mei , Liu Guang-Ming
Published: November 2024

The IgG/IgE-binding activity of recombinant TM in O. oratoria were similar to native TM. T-cell epitopes and B-cell epitopes were identified. Moreover, highly conserved T-cell/B-cell epitopes in TM were found between O. oratoria and other shellfish.
A diatom frustule-based Mn2SiO4@C@SiO2 multilayer-structure composite as a high-performance anode electrode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Sun Shimao , Liu Hongchang , Chen Yuxin , Liu Hongwei , Yu Rongda , Zheng Xingfu , Li Yunchao , Zhu Jian , Xia Jinlan , Wang Jun
Published: November 2024

Using diatom frustules as templates, Mn2SiO4@C@SiO2 multilayer-structure composites were prepared for lithium-ion battery anode materials. The prepared composites realize rapid activation, high-performance discharge capacity and cycle stability.
High-efficiency prediction of water adsorption performance of porous adsorbents by lattice grand canonical Monte Carlo molecular simulation
Authors: Liu Zhilu , Li Wei , Li Song
Published: November 2024

A lattice GCMC method (LGCMC) was attempted to accurately and rapidly simulate the water adsorption performance of adsorbents using a coarse-grained Molinero water (mW) model.
Inverse vulcanisation: a new Starter's guide to an emerging field
Authors: Dodd Liam James
Published: November 2024

This article provides an essential reading resource to the field of inverse vulcanisation, condensing all the necessary knowledge and techniques for new starting researchers to become invested in the field, whilst avoiding technical pitfalls.
Unlocking the potential of 2D nanomaterial-based biosensors in biomarker-based detection of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Lutomia Desmond , Poria Rachna , Kala Deepak , Singh Anupam Kumar , Gupta Manoj K , Kumar Deepak , Kaushal Ankur , Gupta Shagun
Published: November 2024

Recent advancements in nanotechnology and biomedicine have promoted the utilization of nanomaterials for various medical applications, particularly in the detection of Helicobacter pylori infections.
Light-regulated pyro-phototronic effects in a perovskite Cs2SnI6-reinforced ferroelectric polymer hybrid nanostructure
Authors: Mallick Zinnia , Naskar Sudip , Ram Shanker , Mandal Dipankar
Published: November 2024

The ‘pyro-phototronic effect’ plays a nontrivial role in advancing ferroelectric (FE) devices of light detectors, light-emitting diodes, and other smart technologies.
Plasma-induced nanogap narrowing and morphological transformation in gold nanoparticle assemblies
Authors: Han Jeongmin , Trinh Hoa Duc , Yoon Sangwoon
Published: November 2024

Plasmon coupling between gold nanoparticles evolves as plasma treatment narrows the nanogaps within the assemblies, eventually welding the nanoparticles.
TFAA mediated one-pot synthesis of chiral N-protected amino acid-derived 1,2,4-oxadiazoles and their antibacterial studies
Authors: Saravanakumar Srinivasan Pon , Nagasundaram Nagarajan , DhineshKumar Jayaraman , Rajalakshmi Periyaswamy , Lalitha Appaswami
Published: November 2024

A scalable and environment-friendly one-pot two-component synthesis of chiral N-protected amino acid substituted 1,2,4-oxadiazoles from hydroxyl amidine and (S)-2-(2,2,2-trifluoroacetamido)propanoic 2,2,2-trifluoroacetic anhydride is described.
Transport properties of B-site codoped CaHfO3 proton conductors with octahedral distortion
Authors: Huang Wenlong , Lv Mingze , Li Ying , Ding Yushi , Lu Jiayao , Zhuang Chunsheng , Yue Pengfei , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2024

Both proton and oxygen ion mobility initially increase with octahedral distortion angle and then decrease, and CaHf0.8Sn0.1Sc0.1O3−δ with the octahedral distortion angle of 15.6° exhibited the highest ionic mobilities and conductivities.
Advancements in biohydrogen production – a comprehensive review of technologies, lifecycle analysis, and future scope
Authors: Sanghvi Aarnav Hetan , Manjoo Amarjith , Rajput Prachi , Mahajan Navya , Rajamohan Natarajan , Abrar Iyman
Published: November 2024

The global shift towards sustainable energy sources, necessitated by climate change concerns, has led to a critical review of biohydrogen production (BHP) processes and their potential as a solution to environmental challenges.
Aminodiols, aminotetraols and 1,2,3-triazoles based on allo-gibberic acid: stereoselective syntheses and antiproliferative activities
Authors: Khdar Zein Alabdeen , Le Tam Minh , Schelz Zsuzsanna , Zupkó István , Szakonyi Zsolt
Published: November 2024

Various allo-gibberic acid modifications yielded aminodiols, aminotetraols, and triazoles. N-naphthyl aminotetraols and di- or tetrahydroxy triazoles with a diaminopyrimidine moiety showed optimal antiproliferative activity.
A timely update on g-C3N4-based photocatalysts towards the remediation of Cr(vi) in aqueous streams
Authors: Pattnaik Sambhu Prasad , Mohanty Upali Aparajita , Parida Kulamani
Published: November 2024

Photocatalytic Cr(vi) reduction using g-C3N4.
Copper depletion-induced tumor cuproptosis
Authors: Zhou Min , Muhammad Faheem , Zhang Yihong , Li Tong , Feng Jiayuan , Zhao Jingyuan , Wei Hui
Published: November 2024

Copper accumulated-cuproptosis has been extensively investigated, copper depleted-cuproptosis remains largely unexplored. Based on the solubility product principle, a novel copper depletion-induced tumor cuproptosis strategy was developed.
Archaerhodopsin 3 is an ideal template for the engineering of highly fluorescent optogenetic reporters
Authors: Herasymenko Krystyna , Walisinghe Danushka , Konno Masae , Barneschi Leonardo , de Waele Isabelle , Sliwa Michel , Inoue Keiichi , Olivucci Massimo , Haacke Stefan
Published: November 2024

The mixed covalent/charge transfer character of the excited state of AR-3 allows to introduce an isomerization-blocking excited state barrier, ideal for engineering fluorescent mutants.
Tunable synthesis of heteroleptic zirconium-based porous coordination cages
Authors: Morey Merissa N. , Montone Christine M. , Dworzak Michael R. , Yap Glenn P. A. , Bloch Eric D.
Published: November 2024

A mixed-ligand synthesis yields zirconium-based cages with tunable functional group ratios, enabling diverse ligand incorporation, including previously elusive ones, via a straightforward one-pot strategy.
An ultra-fast reaction process for recycling lithium ion batteries via galvanic cell interaction
Authors: Ye Long , Xu Zhilong , Gong Haiqiang , Xiao Zhiming , Zhang Bao , Ming Lei , Ou Xing
Published: November 2024

An ultra-fast, high-efficient and closed-loop ammonia-leaching process is proposed to provide a new perspective for spent LIB recycling.
Ultra-long cycle sodium ion batteries enabled by the glutaric anhydride additive
Authors: Zhou Qin , Xia Cong , Kuang Zhifan , Guo Mengran , Zhang Hao , Wan Haojie , Wang Shiquan , Li Lin , Liu Jianwen
Published: November 2024

For sodium-ion batteries, solving the issue of short cycle life is key to their large-scale adoption in the industry, and the electrolyte plays an important role on this.
Reconstructing the phase of vanadium oxides enables redox-catalysis manipulated reversible sulfur conversion for stable Zn–S batteries
Authors: Luo Hao , Li Fan , Wang Mingli , Sun Shang , Zhou Min , Zhang Wenjing , Guo Hengrui , Su Xueyin , Li Xiaolong , Ma Lina
Published: November 2024

Benefiting from a unique two-electron redox reaction during the (de) zincification process, the ZnxV23+/5+O5 hotspots can serve as a redox medium to invoke the redox catalytic effect for tuning the bidirectional sulfur redox.
Selective oxidation of active site aromatic residues in engineered Cu proteins
Authors: Uyeda Kylie S. , Follmer Alec H. , Borovik A. S.
Published: November 2024

Engineered metalloproteins that mimic the active sites of natural copper metalloenzymes are used to systematically investigate the influence of aromatic residues within the secondary coordination sphere on reactivity.
Effects of benzoheterocyclic annelation on the s-indacene core: a computational analysis
Authors: Warren Gabrielle I. , Młodzikowska-Pieńko Katarzyna , Jalife Said , Demachkie Isabella S. , Wu Judy I. , Haley Michael M. , Gershoni-Poranne Renana
Published: November 2024

Aromaticity and antiaromaticity are pivotal concepts in chemistry, with significant implications for molecular properties and reactivity.