bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PAFAH1B3 is a KLF9 target gene that promotes proliferation and metastasis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Dong Cairong , Yao Jinping , Wu Zhipeng , Hu Junwen , Sun Liang , Wu Zhengyi , Yan Jinlong , Yin Xiangbao
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal human malignancies. Uncontrolled cell proliferation, invasion and migration of pancreatic cancer cells are the fundamental causes of death in PDAC patients. Our previous studies showed that KLF9 inhibits the proliferation, invasion and migration of pancreatic cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we found that platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase IB3 (PAFAH1B3) is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that overexpression of PAFAH1B3 promoted the proliferation and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells, while downregulation of PAFAH1B3 inhibited these processes. We found that KLF9 expression is negatively correlated with PAFAH1B3 expression in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells. Western blotting revealed that KLF9 negatively regulates the expression of PAFAH1B3 in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells. Rescue experiments showed that overexpression of PAFAH1B3 could partially attenuate the suppression of pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration induced by KLF9 overexpression. Finally, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual-luciferase reporter assays were carried out, and the results showed that KLF9 directly binds to the promoter of PAFAH1B3 and inhibits its transcriptional activity. In conclusion, our study indicated that KLF9 can inhibit the proliferation, invasion, migration and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells by inhibiting PAFAH1B3.
Eocene amber provides the first fossil record and bridges distributional gap in the rare genus Robsonomyia (Diptera: Keroplatidae)
Authors: Pełczyńska Alicja , Krzemiński Wiesław , Blagoderov Vladimir , Vilhelmsen Lars , Soszyńska Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

Until now, the genus Robsonomyia was represented by two extant species: R. reducta Matile & Vockeroth, 1980 from North America and R. sciaraeformis (Okada, 1939) from Asia. This paper presents the first fossil members of the genus Robsonomyia, which is also the first record from Europe. Two new fossil species from Baltic amber are described: R. baltica Pełczyńska, Krzemiński & Blagoderov, sp. nov. and R. henningseni Pełczyńska, Krzemiński & Blagoderov, sp. nov.. The presence of fossil Robsonomyia spp. on the European continent suggests Holarctic distribution of the genus in the past. We also discuss possible pathways of its intercontinental dispersion.
Experimental investigation of drag loss behavior of dip-lubricated wet clutches for building a data-driven prediction model
Authors: Pointner-Gabriel Lukas , Menzel Max , Voelkel Katharina , Schneider Thomas , Stahl Karsten
Published: April 2024

Fundamental knowledge of wet clutches’ drag loss behavior is essential for designing low-loss clutch systems. In contrast to the widely investigated injection lubrication, more comprehensive knowledge is needed on the drag loss behavior of dip-lubricated wet clutches. In the development phase, data-driven models allow drag loss predictions with low computational effort and, at the same time, sufficient accuracy. Therefore, this study aimed to deepen and expand knowledge of the drag loss behavior of dip-lubricated wet clutches based on experimental investigations. Moreover, the investigations were designed and conducted so that the generated data and findings can be used in further research for building data-driven prediction models. The investigations were conducted on two clutch systems from automotive and industrial applications. The practice-relevant parameters of clearance, oil level, oil viscosity, and plate shape were investigated based on a mixed-level full factorial design. The evaluation shows that a reduction in drag loss can be achieved primarily by increasing the clearance, reducing the oil viscosity, and choosing waved plates. The obtained drag loss behavior can be traced back to the form of oil displacement from the gaps. The displacement process, in turn, is influenced by the operating and geometry parameters. Although the flow in the gaps develops differently for dip and injection lubrication over differential speed, the study shows comparable integral effects of the influencing parameters for both types of lubrication. The generated datasets contain the investigated parameters as features and characteristic drag loss values as targets. The findings can support the selection and configuration of the machine learning algorithm and the validation of the trained models. The described procedure can serve as a template for generating and analyzing datasets for data-driven modeling of wet clutches’ drag losses.
Damage and reliability analysis of double-arch tunnel without a middle pilot tunnel under blast load
Authors: Jian Bingxi , Tao Tiejun , Song Shuai , Xie Caijin , Tian Xingchao , Li Guoqing , Wan Antong
Published: April 2024

In this study, a new type of multi-arch tunnel construction method is proposed. This effort is undertaken due to the many disadvantages of the traditional multi-arch tunnel construction method. Furthermore, this method omits the construction of a middle pilot tunnel, and it has the advantages of safety, high efficiency, and being economical. When using the method of continuous arch tunneling without a middle pilot tunnel, the blasting of the first tunnel and the following tunnel has a greater impact on the surrounding rock damage, as well as on the supporting structure of the same cross-section. Therefore, this study uses LS-DYNA finite element software to construct a three-dimensional numerical model. In addition, the perimeter rock damage law and mechanical response characteristics of the supporting structure in the same cross-section of the first tunnel, as well as the following tunnel after blasting without a middle pilot tunnel, are analyzed. At the same time, the results of the study are based on optimizing the blasting program, and these are then applied to the field. Through the results, it is found that, after blasting a continuous arch tunnel without a medial pilot tunnel, the surrounding rock damage in the arch cross-region of the double-arch tunnel (where the arch top and the arch shoulder are more significant) and the effective stress of the supporting structure exceed the strength design value. In addition, the maximum adequate pressure is distributed in the medial diaphragm wall. With the optimized blasting scheme, the range of the peripheral rock damage is reduced by a maximum of 67%, and the effective stress in the supporting structure is reduced by 25.9–64.8%. The research results are of great significance in terms of improving construction safety, economic efficiency, and project quality, as well as in promoting the research and development of new work methods for double-arch tunnels.
Urban rooftops near sports pitches provide a safe haven for a declining shorebird
Authors: Löffler Franz , Brüggeshemke Jonas , Freienstein Felix Maximilian , Kämpfer Steffen , Fartmann Thomas
Published: April 2024

Urbanisation has contributed to a severe decline in biodiversity worldwide. However, urban ecosystems can also play an important role in the conservation of threatened species, including ground-nesting birds such as the Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus). While the coastal populations of this shorebird have declined sharply, there is growing evidence that pairs nesting on urban flat roofs have high reproductive success. However, the reasons for rooftop nesting and the species’ habitat use in urban areas remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigate the territory selection and foraging behaviour of the Eurasian Oystercatcher in the city of Münster (NW Germany). All nesting sites were located on flat roofs (N = 24), most of which were covered with gravel. Overall, reproductive success was high. This was mainly because the roofs provided protection from mammalian predators, leading to increased nest and chick survival. Moreover, breeding performance in the study area was favoured by the proximity of sports pitches. According to our observations, they provided a large amount of easily accessible prey throughout the breeding season. Overall, our study highlights that the reproductive success of the Eurasian Oystercatcher in urban environments is highly dependent on both safe nesting sites on flat roofs and the availability of suitable foraging habitats. Although our study suggests that breeding in urban areas can be beneficial for the model organism, the species’ strong territory fidelity makes it very sensitive to the rapid environmental changes occurring in cities. The value of urban ecosystems for bird conservation should therefore be better integrated into urban planning and management.
Non-parametric quantile regression-based modelling of additive effects to solar irradiation in Southern Africa
Authors: Masache Amon , Maposa Daniel , Mdlongwa Precious , Sigauke Caston
Published: April 2024

Modelling of solar irradiation is paramount to renewable energy management. This warrants the inclusion of additive effects to predict solar irradiation. Modelling of additive effects to solar irradiation can improve the forecasting accuracy of prediction frameworks. To help develop the frameworks, this current study modelled the additive effects using non-parametric quantile regression (QR). The approach applies quantile splines to approximate non-parametric components when finding the best relationships between covariates and the response variable. However, some additive effects are perceived as linear. Thus, the study included the partial linearly additive quantile regression model (PLAQR) in the quest to find how best the additive effects can be modelled. As a result, a comparative investigation on the forecasting performances of the PLAQR, an additive quantile regression (AQR) model and the new quantile generalised additive model (QGAM) using out-of-sample and probabilistic forecasting metric evaluations was done. Forecasted density plots, Murphy diagrams and results from the Diebold–Mariano (DM) hypothesis test were also analysed. The density plot, the curves on the Murphy diagram and most metric scores computed for the QGAM were slightly better than for the PLAQR and AQR models. That is, even though the DM test indicates that the PLAQR and AQR models are less accurate than the QGAM, we could not conclude an outright greater forecasting performance of the QGAM than the PLAQR or AQR models. However, in situations of probabilistic forecasting metric preferences, each model can be prioritised to be applied to the metric where it performed slightly the best. The three models performed differently in different locations, but the location was not a significant factor in their performances. In contrast, forecasting horizon and sample size influenced model performance differently in the three additive models. The performance variations also depended on the metric being evaluated. Therefore, the study has established the best forecasting horizons and sample sizes for the different metrics. It was finally concluded that a 20% forecasting horizon and a minimum sample size of 10000 data points are ideal when modelling additive effects of solar irradiation using non-parametric QR.
An increase in ER stress and unfolded protein response in iPSCs-derived neuronal cells from neuronopathic Gaucher disease patients
Authors: Pornsukjantra Tanapat , Saikachain Nongluk , Sutjarit Nareerat , Khongkrapan Arthaporn , Tubsuwan Alisa , Bhukhai Kanit , Tim-Aroon Thipwimol , Anurathapan Usanarat , Hongeng Suradej , Asavapanumas Nithi
Published: April 2024

Gaucher disease (GD) is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by a mutation in theGBA1gene, responsible for encoding the enzyme Glucocerebrosidase (GCase). Although neuronal death and neuroinflammation have been observed in the brains of individuals with neuronopathic Gaucher disease (nGD), the exact mechanism underlying neurodegeneration in nGD remains unclear. In this study, we used two induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-derived neuronal cell lines acquired from two type-3 GD patients (GD3-1 and GD3-2) to investigate the mechanisms underlying nGD by biochemical analyses. These iPSCs-derived neuronal cells from GD3-1 and GD3-2 exhibit an impairment in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium homeostasis and an increase in unfolded protein response markers (BiP and CHOP), indicating the presence of ER stress in nGD. A significant increase in the BAX/BCL-2 ratio and an increase in Annexin V-positive cells demonstrate a notable increase in apoptotic cell death in GD iPSCs-derived neurons, suggesting downstream signaling after an increase in the unfolded protein response. Our study involves the establishment of iPSCs-derived neuronal models for GD and proposes a possible mechanism underlying nGD. This mechanism involves the activation of ER stress and the unfolded protein response, ultimately leading to apoptotic cell death in neurons.
Exploration of lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in patients with chronic atrophic gastritis in Tibetan plateau areas based on DNBSEQ-G99 RNA sequencing
Authors: Pan Wen , Liu Chao , Ren Tao , Chen Xiaohong , Liang Cuiting , Wang Jin , Yang Jinlin
Published: April 2024

A higher incidence of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) is generally considered as a precancerous lesion in gastric cancer (GC). The aim of this study was to identify potential molecules involved in the pathogenesis of CAG in the Tibetan plateau, hoping to help the diagnosis and management of the disease. Atrophic and non-atrophic gastric mucosal tissue samples were collected from seven patients with chronic gastritis (CG). Differentially expressed lncRNAs, circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs between CAG and chronic non-atrophic gastritis (CNAG) groups were identified based on DNBSEQ-G99 RNA sequencing. Subsequently, competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks (lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks) were constructed. Two datasets (GSE153224 and GSE163416), involving data from non-Tibetan plateau areas, were used to further screen out Tibetan plateau key mRNAs, followed by the common genes of Tibetan plateau key and ferroptosis-related mRNAs were also identified. Functional enrichment analyses were performed to investigate the biological functions of Tibetan plateau mRNAs in the CAG. A total of seven lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA relationship pairs and 424 circRNA-miRNA-mRNA relationship pairs were identified in this study. The relationship pairs of hsa_circ_0082984-hsa-miR-204-5p-CACNG8, lncRNA DRAIC/has_circ_0008561-hsa-miR-34a-5p-AR/GXYLT2, lncRNA GAS1RR/RGMB-AS1/hsa_circ_0008561-hsa-miR-3614-5p-TMEM216/SUSD5, and LINC00941/hsa_circ_0082984-hsa-miR-873-3p-TMC5 can be involved in the pathogenesis of CAG. Additionally, eight common genes of Tibetan plateau key and ferroptosis-related differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) (CBS, SLC2A4, STAT3, ALOX15B, ATF3, IDO1, NOX4, and SOCS1) were identified in CAG. The common genes of Tibetan plateau key and ferroptosis-related DEmRNAs can play a role in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. This study identified important molecular biomarkers that may be involved in regulating the pathological mechanisms of CAG in the Tibetan plateau, which provides potential research directions for future research.
Significance of nitrosative stress and glycoxidation products in the diagnosis of COVID-19
Authors: Wolszczak-Biedrzycka Blanka , Dorf Justyna , Matowicka-Karna Joanna , Wojewódzka-Żeleźniakowicz Marzena , Żukowski Piotr , Zalewska Anna , Maciejczyk Mateusz
Published: April 2024

Nitrosative stress promotes protein glycoxidation, and both processes can occur during an infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess selected nitrosative stress parameters and protein glycoxidation products in COVID-19 patients and convalescents relative to healthy subjects, including in reference to the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. The diagnostic utility of nitrosative stress and protein glycoxidation biomarkers was also evaluated in COVID-19 patients. The study involved 218 patients with COVID-19, 69 convalescents, and 48 healthy subjects. Nitrosative stress parameters (NO, S-nitrosothiols, nitrotyrosine) and protein glycoxidation products (tryptophan, kynurenine, N-formylkynurenine, dityrosine, AGEs) were measured in the blood plasma or serum with the use of colorimetric/fluorometric methods. The levels of NO (p = 0.0480), S-nitrosothiols (p = 0.0004), nitrotyrosine (p = 0.0175), kynurenine (p < 0.0001), N-formylkynurenine (p < 0.0001), dityrosine (p < 0.0001), and AGEs (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher, whereas tryptophan fluorescence was significantly (p < 0.0001) lower in COVID-19 patients than in the control group. Significant differences in the analyzed parameters were observed in different stages of COVID-19. In turn, the concentrations of kynurenine (p < 0.0001), N-formylkynurenine (p < 0.0001), dityrosine (p < 0.0001), and AGEs (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher, whereas tryptophan levels were significantly (p < 0.0001) lower in convalescents than in healthy controls. The ROC analysis revealed that protein glycoxidation products can be useful for diagnosing infections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus because they differentiate COVID-19 patients (KN: sensitivity—91.20%, specificity—92.00%; NFK: sensitivity—92.37%, specificity—92.00%; AGEs: sensitivity—99,02%, specificity—100%) and convalescents (KN: sensitivity—82.22%, specificity—84.00%; NFK: sensitivity—82,86%, specificity—86,00%; DT: sensitivity—100%, specificity—100%; AGE: sensitivity—100%, specificity—100%) from healthy subjects with high sensitivity and specificity. Nitrosative stress and protein glycoxidation are intensified both during and after an infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The levels of redox biomarkers fluctuate in different stages of the disease. Circulating biomarkers of nitrosative stress/protein glycoxidation have potential diagnostic utility in both COVID-19 patients and convalescents.
A method for managing scientific research project resource conflicts and predicting risks using BP neural networks
Authors: Dong Xuying , Qiu Wanlin
Published: April 2024

This study begins by considering the resource-sharing characteristics of scientific research projects to address the issues of resource misalignment and conflict in scientific research project management. It comprehensively evaluates the tangible and intangible resources required during project execution and establishes a resource conflict risk index system. Subsequently, a resource conflict risk management model for scientific research projects is developed using Back Propagation (BP) neural networks. This model incorporates the Dropout regularization technique to enhance the generalization capacity of the BP neural network. Leveraging the BP neural network’s non-linear fitting capabilities, it captures the intricate relationship between project resource demand and supply. Additionally, the model employs self-learning to continuously adapt to new scenarios based on historical data, enabling more precise resource conflict risk assessments. Finally, the model’s performance is analyzed. The results reveal that risks in scientific research project management primarily fall into six categories: material, equipment, personnel, financial, time, and organizational factors. This study’s model algorithm exhibits the highest accuracy in predicting time-related risks, achieving 97.21%, surpassing convolutional neural network algorithms. Furthermore, the Root Mean Squared Error of the model algorithm remains stable at approximately 0.03, regardless of the number of hidden layer neurons, demonstrating excellent fitting capabilities. The developed BP neural network risk prediction framework in this study, while not directly influencing resource utilization efficiency or mitigating resource conflicts, aims to offer robust data support for research project managers when making decisions on resource allocation. The framework provides valuable insights through sensitivity analysis of organizational risks and other factors, with their relative importance reaching up to 20%. Further research should focus on defining specific strategies for various risk factors to effectively enhance resource utilization efficiency and manage resource conflicts.
Intranasal oxytocin suppresses seizure-like behaviors in a mouse model of NGLY1 deficiency
Authors: Makita Yukimasa , Asahina Makoto , Fujinawa Reiko , Yukitake Hiroshi , Suzuki Tadashi
Published: April 2024

NGLY1 deficiency is a genetic disease caused by biallelic mutations of the Ngly1 gene. Although epileptic seizure is one of the most severe symptoms in patients with NGLY1 deficiency, preclinical studies have not been conducted due to the lack of animal models for epileptic seizures in NGLY1 deficiency. Here, we observed the behaviors of male and female Ngly1−/− mice by video monitoring and found that these mice exhibit spontaneous seizure-like behaviors. Gene expression analyses and enzyme immunoassay revealed significant decreases in oxytocin, a well-known neuropeptide, in the hypothalamus of Ngly1−/− mice. Seizure-like behaviors in Ngly1−/− mice were transiently suppressed by a single intranasal administration of oxytocin. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of oxytocin for epileptic seizure in patients with NGLY1 deficiency and contribute to the clarification of the disease mechanism.
Revealing the mechanisms of semantic satiation with deep learning models
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Lian Jing , Yu Zhaofei , Tang Huajin , Liang Dong , Liu Jizhao , Liu Jian K.
Published: April 2024

The phenomenon of semantic satiation, which refers to the loss of meaning of a word or phrase after being repeated many times, is a well-known psychological phenomenon. However, the microscopic neural computational principles responsible for these mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we use a deep learning model of continuous coupled neural networks to investigate the mechanism underlying semantic satiation and precisely describe this process with neuronal components. Our results suggest that, from a mesoscopic perspective, semantic satiation may be a bottom-up process. Unlike existing macroscopic psychological studies that suggest that semantic satiation is a top-down process, our simulations use a similar experimental paradigm as classical psychology experiments and observe similar results. Satiation of semantic objectives, similar to the learning process of our network model used for object recognition, relies on continuous learning and switching between objects. The underlying neural coupling strengthens or weakens satiation. Taken together, both neural and network mechanisms play a role in controlling semantic satiation.
Single-cell T-cell receptor repertoire profiling in dogs
Authors: Hoang My H. , Skidmore Zachary L. , Rindt Hans , Chu Shirley , Fisk Bryan , Foltz Jennifer A. , Fronick Catrina , Fulton Robert , Zhou Mingyi , Bivens Nathan J. , Reinero Carol N. , Fehniger Todd A. , Griffith Malachi , Bryan Jeffrey N. , Griffith Obi L.
Published: April 2024

Spontaneous cancers in companion dogs are robust models of human disease. Tracking tumor-specific immune responses in these models requires reagents to perform species-specific single cell T cell receptor sequencing (scTCRseq). scTCRseq and integration with scRNA data have not been demonstrated on companion dogs with cancer. Here, five healthy dogs, two dogs with T cell lymphoma and four dogs with melanoma are selected to demonstrate applicability of scTCRseq in a cancer immunotherapy setting. Single-cell suspensions of PBMCs or lymph node aspirates are profiled using scRNA and dog-specific scTCRseq primers. In total, 77,809 V(D)J-expressing cells are detected, with an average of 3498 (348 - 5,971) unique clonotypes identified per sample. In total, 29/34, 40/40, 22/22 and 9/9 known functional TRAV, TRAJ, TRBV and TRBJ gene segments are observed respectively. Pseudogene or otherwise defective gene segments are also detected supporting re-annotation of several as functional. Healthy dogs exhibit highly diverse repertoires, T cell lymphomas exhibit clonal repertoires, and vaccine-treated melanoma dogs are dominated by a small number of highly abundant clonotypes. scRNA libraries define large clusters of V(D)J-expressing CD8+ and CD4 + T cells. Dominant clonotypes observed in melanoma PBMCs are predominantly CD8 + T cells, with activated phenotypes, suggesting possible anti-tumor T cell populations.
Disulfiram treatment suppresses antibody-producing reactions by inhibiting macrophage activation and B cell pyrimidine metabolism
Authors: Chen Weili , Toda Etsuko , Takeuchi Kazuhiro , Sawa Yurika , Wakamatsu Kyoko , Kuwahara Naomi , Ishikawa Arimi , Igarashi Yuri , Terasaki Mika , Kunugi Shinobu , Terasaki Yasuhiro , Yamada Kazuhiko , Terashima Yuya , Shimizu Akira
Published: April 2024

Antibody responses, involving B cells, CD4 + T cells, and macrophages, are implicated in autoimmune diseases and organ transplant rejection. We have previously shown that inhibiting FROUNT with disulfiram (DSF) suppresses macrophage activation and migration, effectively treating inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of DSF in antibody-producing reactions. Using a heart transplantation mouse model with antibody-mediated rejection, we administered anti-CD8 antibody to exclude cellular rejection. DSF directly inhibited B cell responses in vitro and significantly reduced plasma donor-specific antibodies and graft antibody deposition in vivo, resulting in prolonged survival of the heart graft. DSF also mediated various effects, including decreased macrophage infiltration and increased Foxp3+ regulatory T-cells in the grafts. Additionally, DSF inhibited pyrimidine metabolism-related gene expression induced by B-cell stimulation. These findings demonstrate that DSF modulates antibody production in the immune response complexity by regulating B-cell and macrophage responses.
Urban flood risk management needs nature-based solutions: a coupled social-ecological system perspective
Authors: Zhou Kejing , Kong Fanhua , Yin Haiwei , Destouni Georgia , Meadows Michael E. , Andersson Erik , Chen Liding , Chen Bin , Li Zhenya , Su Jie
Published: April 2024

A growing number of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) has been advocated for urban flood risk management (FRM). However, whether NbS for FRM (NbS-FRM) achieves both social and ecological co-benefits remains largely unknown. We here propose and use a conceptual framework with a coupled social-ecological perspective to explore and identify such “win-win” potential in NbS-FRM. Through a scoping-review we find that ecological FRM measures are unevenly distributed around the world, and those solely targeting flood mitigation may have unintended negative consequences for society and ecosystems. In elaborating this framework with evidence from the reviewed studies, we find that NbS-FRM has the potential to provide both social and ecological co-benefits, with remaining gaps including a lack of resilience thinking, inadequate consideration of environmental changes, and limited collaborative efforts to manage trade-offs. The proposed framework shows how to move forward to leverage NbS for equitable and sustainable FRM with improved human well-being and ecosystem health.
A checkpoint function for Nup98 in nuclear pore formation suggested by novel inhibitory nanobodies
Authors: Solà Colom Mireia , Fu Zhenglin , Gunkel Philip , Güttler Thomas , Trakhanov Sergei , Srinivasan Vasundara , Gregor Kathrin , Pleiner Tino , Görlich Dirk
Published: April 2024

Nuclear pore complex (NPC) biogenesis is a still enigmatic example of protein self-assembly. We now introduce several cross-reacting anti-Nup nanobodies for imaging intact nuclear pore complexes from frog to human. We also report a simplified assay that directly tracks postmitotic NPC assembly with added fluorophore-labeled anti-Nup nanobodies. During interphase, NPCs are inserted into a pre-existing nuclear envelope. Monitoring this process is challenging because newly assembled NPCs are indistinguishable from pre-existing ones. We overcame this problem by inserting Xenopus-derived NPCs into human nuclear envelopes and using frog-specific anti-Nup nanobodies for detection. We further asked whether anti-Nup nanobodies could serve as NPC assembly inhibitors. Using a selection strategy against conserved epitopes, we obtained anti-Nup93, Nup98, and Nup155 nanobodies that block Nup–Nup interfaces and arrest NPC assembly. We solved structures of nanobody-target complexes and identified roles for the Nup93 α-solenoid domain in recruiting Nup358 and the Nup214·88·62 complex, as well as for Nup155 and the Nup98 autoproteolytic domain in NPC scaffold assembly. The latter suggests a checkpoint linking pore formation to the assembly of the Nup98-dominated permeability barrier.
Ago2/CAV1 interaction potentiates metastasis via controlling Ago2 localization and miRNA action
Authors: Lin Meng-Chieh , Kuo Wen-Hung , Chen Shih-Yin , Hsu Jing-Ya , Lu Li-Yu , Wang Chen-Chi , Chen Yi-Ju , Tsai Jia-Shiuan , Li Hua-Jung
Published: April 2024

Ago2 differentially regulates oncogenic and tumor-suppressive miRNAs in cancer cells. This discrepancy suggests a secondary event regulating Ago2/miRNA action in a context-dependent manner. We show here that a positive charge of Ago2 K212, that is preserved by SIR2-mediated Ago2 deacetylation in cancer cells, is responsible for the direct interaction between Ago2 and Caveolin-1 (CAV1). Through this interaction, CAV1 sequesters Ago2 on the plasma membranes and regulates miRNA-mediated translational repression in a compartment-dependent manner. Ago2/CAV1 interaction plays a role in miRNA-mediated mRNA suppression and in miRNA release via extracellular vesicles (EVs) from tumors into the circulation, which can be used as a biomarker of tumor progression. Increased Ago2/CAV1 interaction with tumor progression promotes aggressive cancer behaviors, including metastasis. Ago2/CAV1 interaction acts as a secondary event in miRNA-mediated suppression and increases the complexity of miRNA actions in cancer.
Phase textures of metal–oxide nanocomposites self-orchestrated by atomic diffusions through precursor alloys
Authors: Shudin Nasrat Hannah , Eguchi Ryuto , Fujita Takeshi , Tokunaga Tomoharu , Hashimoto Ayako , Abe Hideki
Published: April 2024

Metal-oxide nanocomposites (MONs) are of pivotal importance as electrode materials, yet lack a guiding principle to tune their phase texture.
Designing barrier-free metal/MoS2 contacts through electrene insertion
Authors: Rafiee Diznab Mohammad , Rumson Adrian F. , Maassen Jesse , Johnson Erin R.
Published: April 2024

DFT calculations show that Ca2N is the most favourable electrene to insert to eliminate Schottky and tunnelling barriers across Au/MoS2 or Cu/MoS2 interfaces.
Recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries for a sustainable future: recent advancements
Authors: Biswal Basanta Kumar , Zhang Bei , Thi Minh Tran Phuong , Zhang Jingjing , Balasubramanian Rajasekhar
Published: April 2024

A critical review of the recent developments in the recycling of spent Li-ion batteries using five major technologies (direct recycling, pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, bioleaching and electrometallurgy) and evaluation of their sustainability.
Antimicrobial activity of safe concentrations of ozone, hydrogen peroxide, and triethylene glycol in air and surfaces
Authors: Truyols-Vives Joan , Botella-Grau Salut , Mercader-Barceló Josep , Baldoví Herme G.
Published: April 2024

The application of low and non-toxic concentrations of antimicrobial compounds in indoor air is an interesting strategy to reduce airborne bacteria and fungi thereby reducing infection risk.
Inulin mitigated antibiotic-induced intestinal microbiota dysbiosis – a comparison of different supplementation stages
Authors: An Ran , Zhou Xilong , He Penglin , Lyu Chenang , Wang Dapeng
Published: April 2024

Supplementation of inulin could alleviate antibiotic induced microbiota dysbiosis, and the best supplementation stage was before antibiotic treatment, then simultaneous supplementation and supplementation after antibiotic.
In vitro protein digestibility of RuBisCO-enriched wheat dough: a comparative study with pea and gluten proteins
Authors: Ducrocq Maude , Boire Adeline , Bourlieu-Lacanal Claire , Barron Cécile , Nawrocka Agnieszka , Morel Marie-Hélène , Anton Marc , Micard Valérie
Published: April 2024

What is the effect of a RuBisCO enrichment on the nutritional quality of proteins in wheat-based foods in comparison to the commonly used pea proteins?
Bioactive O^N^O^ Schiff base appended homoleptic titanium(iv) complexes: DFT, BSA/CT-DNA interactions, molecular docking and antitumor activity against HeLa and A549 cell lines
Authors: Thanigachalam Sathish , Pathak Madhvesh
Published: April 2024

Five new homoleptic derivatives of titanium(iv) have been developed and characterized by physicochemical techniques.
Representing chemistry culture: ethnography's methodological potential in chemistry education research and practice
Authors: Schechtel Shauna , Bongers Amanda
Published: April 2024

A goal in chemistry education research and teaching is to make chemistry education inclusive to our diverse students. Ethnography is one approach that can support this goal, because it supports researchers and educators in questioning what is considered ordinary by exploring chemistry as a culture. By exploring chemistry as a culture, we can understand how we represent the discipline of chemistry to our students in what we teach, how we teach, and who we teach. Questioning the ordinary aspects of research and teaching can help us work towards creating a more inclusive chemistry culture for our students, researchers, and instructors. Within this perspective, the authors explore ethnography as a research methodology and an approach to understanding experiences in practice. This perspective explores how different choices in research design, such as the research questions, theoretical framework, methods, and methodology framing, lead to different goals and representations of chemistry culture. This perspective aims to start conversations around what we can learn from different representations of chemistry culture for chemistry practice by questioning what is taken for granted in the learning theories chosen, approaches to interventions, and systematic barriers. In its potential to illuminate how chemistry culture is represented and transmitted to students, ethnography can help create more inclusive, accessible, and supportive spaces for learning and interdisciplinary research.
The development of pre-service teachers’ argumentation self-efficacy through argumentation-based chemistry instruction
Authors: Cetin Pinar Seda , Eymur Gülüzar , Erenler Sumeyye
Published: April 2024

This research aimed to examine the impact of argumentation-based chemistry instruction on the argumentation self-efficacy of pre-service teachers' (PSTs’) and their perceptions regarding the effectiveness of this instruction on their argumentation self-efficacy. This exploratory study involved a cohort of PSTs who actively participated in a series of argumentation-based chemistry activities facilitated by their classroom teacher over an 11-week period, with each activity spanning 1 or 2 weeks. The introduction of argumentation preceded the exploration of chemistry topics, including heat and temperature, gas laws, physical and chemical change, solubility, distinctive properties of matter, chemical reactions, and acids-bases. Data sources comprised the self-efficacy scale for argumentation, the evaluation of instruction for enhancing self-efficacy survey, and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed an increase in PSTs' self-efficacy for argumentation after 11 weeks of argumentation-based chemistry instruction. These results suggest that PSTs can significantly enhance their self-efficacy for argumentation when provided with instruction tailored to incorporate argumentation principles.
Molecular mechanism of α-synuclein aggregation on lipid membranes revealed
Authors: Dear Alexander J. , Teng Xiangyu , Ball Sarah R. , Lewin Joshua , Horne Robert I. , Clow Daniel , Stevenson Alisdair , Harper Natasha , Yahya Kim , Yang Xiaoting , Brewerton Suzanne C. , Thomson John , Michaels Thomas C. T. , Linse Sara , Knowles Tuomas P. J. , Habchi Johnny , Meisl Georg
Published: April 2024

Lipids are an important factor in the disease-associated aggregation of α-synuclein. Here we develop a kinetic model that allows the determination of mechanistic details and rate constants of this process.
A mesothelin microsensor based on an embedded thionine electronic medium within an imprinted polymer on an acupuncture needle electrode
Authors: Zhang Yi , Kong Xue , Guo Hai-Yang , Wang Jing , Yin Zheng-Zhi
Published: April 2024

An electrochemical microsensor of mesothelin was prepared based on surface imprinted nano-interface coordinated embedded thionine, and it was constructed via a green route of electrosynthesis and self-assembly.
A highly selective probe engineered to detect polarity and distinguish normal cells and tumor cells in tissue sections
Authors: Zhu Sai , Dai Lixuan , Zhong Xiaoli , Lin Weiying
Published: April 2024

We have designed a polarity fluorescent probe (DCI-Cou-polar) with high selectivity for diagnosing cancer.
Gold-catalyzed benzannulations of 2-alkenylindoles with alkynes: a protecting-group-free regioselective approach to carbazoles
Authors: Amin Pathan Mosim , Wang Weilin , Wang Chao , Zhou Junrui , Wang Youliang
Published: April 2024

A gold(i)-catalyzed protecting-group-free benzannulation approach to functionalized NH-carbazoles was accomplished via the hydroarylation of alkynes with 2-alkenylindoles.
Iridium(iii)-catalyzed photoredox cross-coupling of alkyl bromides with trialkyl amines: access to α-alkylated aldehydes
Authors: Shukla Gaurav , Singh Malkeet , Singh Saurabh , Singh Maya Shankar
Published: April 2024

A C(sp3)–C(sp3) cross coupling approach based on an iridium-photocatalytic radical process has been developed for the synthesis of α-alkylated aldehydes from alkyl bromides and trialkyl amines.
Preparation of novel membranes with multiple hydrogen bonding sites and π-conjugated structure for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Lele , Zhang Meichen , Peng Zhen , Lu Yao , Lv Peiru , Yang Jingshuai
Published: April 2024

PBFI-x%GTA membranes with twisted polymer structure and multiple hydrogen bonding sites were prepared and displayed high HT-PEMFC performance.
Photoredox-catalyzed alkylarylation of activated alkenes via a ring-opening/Truce–Smiles rearrangement cascade
Authors: Zhang Jin-Hua , Miao Hong-Jie , Xin Hong , Wang Gang , Yang Xiaoyu , Wang Xianjun , Gao Pin , Duan Xin-Hua , Guo Li-Na
Published: April 2024

A photoredox-catalyzed alkylarylation of activated alkenes via a ring-opening/Truce–Smiles rearrangement cascade is developed. The protocol features broad substrate scope and excellent functional group compatibility.
Harnessing solid-state ion exchange for the environmentally benign synthesis of high-efficiency Mn4+-doped phosphors
Authors: Lu Changyuan , You Wenwu
Published: April 2024

A solid-state ion exchange (SSIE) method without HF used is proposed to synthesize a series of Mn4+-doped fluoride phosphors.
Biphasic water–oil systems for functional augmentation of probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus nanoencapsulated in luteolin-Fe3+ shells
Authors: Nguyen Duc Tai , Han Sang Yeong , Kozlowski Filip , Seisenbaeva Gulaim A. , Kessler Vadim G. , Kim Beom Jin , Choi Insung S.
Published: April 2024

Single-cell nanoencapsulation empowers Lactobacillus acidophilus with not only protectability against lysosomal attack but also extrinsic biochemical abilities including radical scavenging and α-amylase inhibition.
Metal–ring interactions in group 2 ansa-metallocenes: assessed with the local vibrational mode theory
Authors: Antonio Juliana J. , Kraka Elfi
Published: April 2024

An exploration of group two ansa-metallocenes for solvent effects, interannular bridges, and quantitative bond strength through local mode analysis.
Thermoelectric properties of Bi1−xPbxCu1−xSeO oxyselenides
Authors: Khanina Aleksandra , Novitskii Andrei , Pashkova Daria , Voronin Andrei , Mori Takao , Khovaylo Vladimir
Published: April 2024

Simultaneous Bi to Pb substitution and Cu vacancies enhance power factor, increasing zT. Lattice thermal conductivity, crucial for zTmax, is greatly influenced by synthesis method.
Re/Ir@Os-doping induced insulator-to-metal transition in Mott-insulator Ca2FeOsO6: octahedral distortion effects
Authors: Nazir S.
Published: April 2024

We explore the consequences of Re/Ir-doping at the Os-site, on the physical properties of the MI ferrimagnetic (FiM) Ca2FeOsO6.
An approach for patterned molecular adsorption on ferromagnets, achieved via Moiré superstructures
Authors: Jensen Sigmund , Løge Isaac Appelquist , Bendix Jesper , Diekhöner Lars
Published: April 2024

Adsorption and ordering of paramagnetic V(O)salen molecules on crystalline flat noble metal and modulated ferromagnetic surfaces with Moiré superstructures.
Stabilized inverse Y2O3/Cu interfaces boost the performance of the reverse water–gas shift reaction
Authors: Li Zhi-Xin , Xu Kai , Wang Wei-Wei , Fu Xin-Pu , Jia Chun-jiang
Published: April 2024

Sintered Cu species are applied to fabricate an inverse Y2O3/Cu catalyst with notable RWGS reaction performance. Inverse Y2O3/CuOx/Cu interfaces promote the metal–support interaction in the Y2O3/Cu catalyst to achieve excellent catalytic stability.
Solar light driven atomic and electronic transformations in a plasmonic Ni@NiO/NiCO3 photocatalyst revealed by ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Ghosalya Manoj Kumar , Talebi Parisa , Singh Harishchandra , Klyushin Alexander , Kokkonen Esko , Alaoui Mansouri Mohammed , Huttula Marko , Cao Wei , Urpelainen Samuli
Published: April 2024

This work employs ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (APXPS) to delve into the atomic and electronic transformations of a core–shell Ni@NiO/NiCO3 photocatalyst – a model system for visible light active plasmonic photocatalysts used in water splitting for hydrogen production.
Photo-, electro-, and photoelectro-catalytic conversion of glucose into high value-added products
Authors: Lu Kang , Zhang Yunfei , Shen Yi , Li Hongying
Published: April 2024

Recent advances in photo-, electro-, and photoelectro-catalytic conversion of glucose to high value-added products are highlighted.
Newly synthesized palladium(ii) complexes with dialkyl esters of (S,S)-propylenediamine-N,N′-di-(2,2′-di-(4-hydroxy-benzil))acetic acid: in vitro investigation of biological activities and HSA/DNA binding
Authors: Ćorović Kemal , Stojković Danijela Lj. , Petrović Đorđe S. , Jovičić Milić Sandra S. , Đukić Maja B. , Radojević Ivana D. , Raković Ivana , Jurišević Milena , Gajović Nevena , Jovanović Marina , Marinković Jovana , Jovanović Ivan , Stojanović Bojan
Published: April 2024

The four new ligands, dialkyl esters type of ligands (R2-S,S-pddtyr·2HCl) and corresponding palladium(ii) complexes have been synthesized, characterized, and their biological activities were investigated.
Crystal structure of KMnPO4F with short- and long-range order inside the layered magnetic system
Authors: Yakubovich Olga V. , Shvanskaya Larisa V. , Kiriukhina Galina V. , Simonov Sergei , Volkov Anatoliy S. , Dimitrova Olga V. , Korolev Vladimir V. , Ovchenkov Yevgeniy A. , Vasiliev Alexander N.
Published: April 2024

KMnPO4F represents a rare case of a quasi-two-dimensional Ising spin system with a rectangular lattice formed by antiferromagnetic Mn3+ (S = 2) chains, coupled ferromagnetically.
Galvanic lithotrophy, a new path to fuel bioelectrochemical processes
Authors: Rodríguez Simón Carlos Norberto , Bonanni Pablo Sebastian , Busalmen Juan Pablo
Published: April 2024

Galvanic coupling with a biocompatible conductive material can make accesible unexplored electron sources for bacteria.
The protective role of water intake in age-related eye diseases: insights from a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Mi Yuze , Zhu Qinnan , Zheng Xinni , Wan Minghui
Published: April 2024

Study have showed that water intake may lower the risk of age-related cataracts and diabetic retinopathy, but the effects on other age-related eye diseases is uncertain.
Efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction in acidic electrolytes using armor-like iron nanoparticles/porous nitrogen-doped carbon
Authors: Hao Wenli , Peng Li , Qiu Rongxing , Xue Tianwei , Li Ruiqing , Zheng Qing-Na , Yu Jia , Qiao Tongxin , Cui Linxiao , Su Yuzhong , Hong Yanzhen , Wang Hongtao , Yang Shuliang , Li Jun
Published: April 2024

The armor-like Fe@NC catalyst was prepared using mechanochemistry-assisted ball milling followed by simple pyrolysis to achieve the electrochemical conversion of CO2 to CO with an impressive FECO of 99.0% in acidic electrolytes.
PXCG-1 and PXCG-2: two reference materials for gypsum U–Th dating
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Xiao Zhengyi , Xu Chunxue , Zhou Wenlong , Jia Xue , Ning Youfeng , Cheng Hai , Liu Yue , Shao Qingfeng , Wang Lisheng , Ma Zhibang , Duan Wuhui , Wang Xiangli , Tan Ming , Xiao Jule , Li Xianhua
Published: April 2024

PXCG-1 and PXCG-2 are the first developed gypsum reference materials for U-Th dating.
In situformation of robust nanostructured cobalt oxyhydroxide/cobalt oxide oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhao Yupeng , Gao Dandan , Biskupek Johannes , Kaiser Ute , Liu Rongji , Streb Carsten
Published: April 2024

The conversion of mixed metal sulfide precursors into active and robust metal oxide/hydroxide oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalysts is reported.
Direct observation of split-mode exciton-polaritons in a single MoS2 nanotube
Authors: Galimov A. I. , Kazanov D. R. , Poshakinskiy A. V. , Rakhlin M. V. , Eliseyev I. A. , Toropov A. A. , Remškar M. , Shubina T. V.
Published: April 2024

A single TMDC nanotube exhibits strong excitonic resonances and doubly degenerate optical WGMs. Gradual flattening of the tube leads to mode splitting and a shift of their energies to the exciton region, which promotes the formation of exciton-polaritons in the strong coupling regime.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of carbon nitride nanosheets via alkali metal ion doping
Authors: Sun Xinhang , Zhao Gang , Li Songyuan , Liu Junhui , Huang Mingju
Published: April 2024

Alkaline metal ion doping enhances the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4.
Fe–Co heteronuclear atom pairs as catalytic sites for efficient oxygen electroreduction
Authors: Sun Zhen , Gao Ruijie , Liu Fan , Li Hao , Shi Chengxiang , Pan Lun , Huang Zhen-Feng , Zhang Xiangwen , Zou Ji-Jun
Published: April 2024

Single-site Fe–N–C catalysts are the most promising Pt-group catalyst alternatives for the oxygen reduction reaction, but their application is impeded by their relatively low activity and unsatisfactory stability as well as production costs.
Introduction to fundamental processes in optical nanomaterials
Authors: Funston Alison M. , Hemmer Eva , Chowdhury Arindam , Veinot Jonathan G. C.
Published: April 2024

Alison Funston, Eva Hemmer, Arindam Chowdhury and Jon Veinot introduce this Nanoscale and ChemComm themed collection on fundamental processes in optical nanomaterials.
N-Functionalization of β-aminophosphonates: cytotoxic effects of the new derivatives
Authors: Keglevich György , Varga Petra Regina , Dinnyési Emőke , Szalai Zsuzsanna , Bősze Szilvia , Rita Oláhné Szabó , Drahos László , Karaghiosoff Konstantin
Published: April 2024

β-Alkylamino-ethylphosphonates were subjected to the Kabachnik–Fields reaction and acylation to afford new derivatives with cytotoxic activity.
A highly diastereoselective one-pot Ugi/radical spirocyclization/aza-Michael addition sequence
Authors: Khan Salman , Chatterjee Abhradeep , Nair Akshay M. , Volla Chandra M. R.
Published: April 2024

Highly diastereoselective sequence consisting of eosin-Y catalyzed radical spirocyclization of post-Ugi adducts with aryl thiols or aryl diselenides followed by aza-Michael addition provided access to complex azaspirotricycles in an efficient manner.