bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous profiling of RNA isoforms and chromatin accessibility of single cells of human retinal organoids
Authors: Zhang Shuyao , Xiao Yuhua , Mo Xinzhi , Chen Xu , Zhong Jiawei , Chen Zheyao , Liu Xu , Qiu Yuanhui , Dai Wangxuan , Chen Jia , Jin Xishan , Fan Guoping , Hu Youjin
Published: September 2024

Single-cell multi-omics sequencing is a powerful approach to analyze complex mechanisms underlying neuronal development and regeneration. However, current methods lack the ability to simultaneously profile RNA alternative splicing and chromatin accessibility at the single-cell level. We develop a technique, single-cell RNA isoform and chromatin accessibility sequencing (scRICA-seq), which demonstrates higher sensitivity and cost-effectiveness compared to existing methods. scRICA-seq can profile both isoforms and chromatin accessibility for up to 10,000 single cells in a single run. Applying this method to human retinal organoids, we construct a multi-omic cell atlas and reveal associations between chromatin accessibility, isoform expression of fate-determining factors, and alternative splicing events in their binding sites. This study provides insights into integrating epigenetics, transcription, and RNA splicing to elucidate the mechanisms underlying retinal neuronal development and fate determination.
Hidden magnetism and split off flat bands in the insulator metal transition in VO2
Authors: Zhang Xiuwen , Xiong Jia-Xin , Zunger Alex
Published: September 2024

Transition metal d-electron oxides with an odd number of electrons per unit cell are expected to form metals with partially occupied energy bands, but exhibit in fact a range of behaviors, being either insulators, or metals, or having insulator-metal transitions. Traditional explanations involved predominantly electron-electron interactions in fixed structural symmetry. The present work focuses instead on the role of symmetry breaking local structural motifs. Viewing the previously observed V-V dimerization in VO2 as a continuous knob, reveals in density functional calculations the splitting of an isolated flat band from the broad conduction band. This leads past a critical percent dimerization to the formation of the insulating phase while lowering the total energy. In VO2 this transition is found to have a rather low energy barrier approaching the thermal energy at room temperature, suggesting energy-efficient switching in neuromorphic computing. Interestingly, sufficient V-V dimerization suppresses magnetism, leading to the nonmagnetic insulating state, whereas magnetism appears when dimerization is reduced, forming a metallic state. This study opens the way to design novel functional quantum materials with symmetry breaking-induced flat bands.
Synergistic effect of Pseudomonas putida and endomycorrhizal inoculation on the physiological response of onion (Allium cepa L.) to saline conditions
Authors: El-Aal Mona S. Abd , Farag Hanaa R. M. , Elbar Ola H. Abd , Zayed Mona S. , Khalifa Gamal S. , Abdellatif Yasmin M. R.
Published: September 2024

Salinity stress negatively affects the growth and yield of crops worldwide. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is moderately sensitive to salinity. Beneficial microorganisms can potentially confer salinity tolerance. This study investigated the effects of endomycorrhizal fungi (M), Pseudomonas putida (Ps) and their combination (MPs) on onion growth under control (0 ppm), moderate (2000 ppm) and high (4000 ppm) NaCl salinity levels. A pot experiment was conducted with sandy loam soil and onion cultivar Giza 20. Results showed that salinity reduced growth attributes, leaf pigments, biomass and bulb yield while increasing oxidative stress markers. However, individual or combined inoculations significantly increased plant height, bulb diameter and biomass production compared to uninoculated plants under saline conditions. MPs treatment provided the highest stimulation, followed by Pseudomonas and mycorrhizae alone. Overall, dual microbial inoculation showed synergistic interaction, conferring maximum benefits for onion growth, bulbing through integrated physiological and biochemical processes under salinity. Bulb yield showed 3.5, 36 and 83% increase over control at 0, 2000 and 4000 ppm salinity, respectively. In conclusion, combined application of mycorrhizal-Pseudomonas inoculations (MPs) effectively mitigate salinity stress. This approach serves as a promising biotechnology for ensuring sustainable onion productivity under saline conditions.
Evaluation of an integration community project for asylum seekers in Sweden: physical activity adherence and changes in character traits and life satisfaction
Authors: Guerra Matheus , Berglind Daniel , Kazemitabar Maryam , Lindskär Erik , Schütz Erica , Dias Casimiro , Garcia Danilo
Published: September 2024

Asylum seekers’ traumatic experiences in combination with discrimination, social isolation, and exclusion in the host country leads to low adherence from health and integration initiatives. Along with their inability to seek health care and physical inactivity, this situation increases their mental illness and, most importantly, decreases their well-being. In fact, the lack of well-being (e.g., life satisfaction) is a better marker of mortality and morbidity than the presence of mental illness. In this context, one of the major single determinants of well-being is character, a dimension of personality that stands for self-regulation, adaptation, and intentional conscious behavior (i.e., goals and values). Host countries often implement integration initiatives including activities aiming to attenuate mental illness, but only a handful are evaluated and reported, with even fewer addressing character development, increases in life satisfaction, or adherence. Our aim was to evaluate the integration initiative “Health for Everyone—Sport, Culture, and Integration”, a 10-week physical activity community project. Specifically, we investigated changes in life satisfaction and character traits (i.e., Self-Directedness, Cooperativeness, and Self-Transcendence) and if these variables, at baseline, predicted adherence and changes in physiological health (i.e., cardiorespiratory fitness, skeletal muscle mass, body fat mass, and visceral fat). Participants (n = 269) answered (pre and post measurements) the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Short Character Inventory, and undertook physiological tests. In addition, their attendance to the physical activity sessions was registered throughout the project (i.e., adherence). Participants showed no significant increases in Self-Directedness, Cooperativeness, or life satisfaction, but significant decreases in Self-Transcendence. Moreover, higher life satisfaction and lower Self-Transcendence at baseline predicted higher adherence to the activity. However, neither character traits nor life satisfaction predicted changes in physiological health. We argue that low frequency physical activity initiatives may improve this population’s physical health because participants probably have a sedentary life and low levels of physical health due to their asylum conditions (e.g., unemployment, low income, poor housing and social network). Furthermore, physical activity per se may not improve the well-being of asylum seekers. Hence, promoting well-being and character development might require person-centered initiatives focusing on the whole individual in order to fit programmes to the needs and life situation of this population.
Can social media encourage diabetes self-screenings? A randomized controlled trial with Indonesian Facebook users
Authors: Fritz Manuela , Grimm Michael , Weber Ingmar , Yom-Tov Elad , Praditya Benedictus
Published: September 2024

Nudging individuals without obvious symptoms of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to undergo a health screening remains a challenge, especially in middle-income countries, where NCD awareness is low but the incidence is high. We assess whether an awareness campaign implemented on Facebook can encourage individuals in Indonesia to undergo an online diabetes self-screening. We use Facebook’s advertisement function to randomly distribute graphical ads related to the risk and consequences of diabetes. Depending on their risk score, participants receive a recommendation to undergo a professional screening. We were able to reach almost 300,000 individuals in only three weeks. More than 1400 individuals completed the screening, inducing costs of about US$0.75 per person. The two ads labeled “diabetes consequences” and “shock” outperform all other ads. A follow-up survey shows that many high-risk respondents have scheduled a professional screening. A cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that our campaign can diagnose an additional person with diabetes for about US$9.
Global economic impact of weather variability on the rich and the poor
Authors: Quante Lennart , Willner Sven N. , Otto Christian , Levermann Anders
Published: September 2024

Temperature and precipitation variability and extremes impact production globally. These production disruptions will change with future warming, impacting consumers locally as well as remotely through supply chains. Due to a potentially nonlinear economic response, trade impacts are difficult to quantify; empirical assessments rather focus on the direct inequality impacts of weather extremes. Here, simulating global economic interactions of profit-maximizing firms and utility-optimizing consumers, we assess risks to consumption resulting from weather-induced production disruptions along supply chains. Across countries, risks are highest for middle-income countries due to unfavourable trade dependence and seasonal climate exposure. We also find that risks increase in most countries under future climate change. Global warming increases consumer risks locally and through supply chains. However, high-income consumers face the greatest risk increase. Overall, risks are heterogeneous regarding income within and between countries, such that targeted local and global resilience building may reduce them.
Ligand requirements for immunoreceptor triggering
Authors: Barton Michael I. , Paterson Rachel L. , Denham Eleanor M. , Goyette Jesse , van der Merwe Philip Anton
Published: September 2024

Leukocytes interact with other cells using cell surface receptors. The largest group of such receptors are non-catalytic tyrosine phosphorylated receptors (NTRs), also called immunoreceptors. NTR signalling requires phosphorylation of cytoplasmic tyrosine residues by SRC-family tyrosine kinases. How ligand binding to NTRs induces this phosphorylation, also called NTR triggering, remains controversial, with roles suggested for size-based segregation, clustering, and mechanical force. Here we exploit a recently developed cell-surface generic ligand system to explore the ligand requirements for NTR triggering. We examine the effect of varying the ligand’s length, mobility and valency on the activation of representative members of four NTR families: SIRPβ1, Siglec 14, NKp44 and TREM-1. Increasing the ligand length impairs activation via NTRs, despite enhancing cell-cell conjugation, while varying ligand mobility has little effect on either conjugation or activation. Increasing the valency of the ligand, while enhancing cell-cell conjugation, does not enhance activation at equivalent levels of conjugation. These findings are more consistent with a role for size-based segregation, rather than mechanical force or clustering, in NTR triggering, suggesting a role for the kinetic-segregation model.
Nonclinical characterization of ICVB-1042 as a selective oncolytic adenovirus for solid tumor treatment
Authors: Kato Yu , Rice Nathaniel , Pokrass Michael , Jeong Jinkil , Rodriguez Ruben , Field Jessica J. , Nowyhed Heba
Published: September 2024

ICVB-1042 is an oncolytic adenovirus containing modifications to enhance replication, lysis, and viral spreading in tumor cells. The anti-tumor activity, immune activation, tropism, selectivity, and mechanism of action were evaluated in preparation for a first-in-human study. ICVB-1042 was at least 100-fold more cytotoxic in A549 cells than in normal primary cells tested, demonstrating its high tumor selectivity and a low likelihood of targeting primary tissues. ICVB-1042 administered to mice intravenously or intratumorally was effective in reducing tumor burden. Its intravenous administration also inhibited tumor growth in orthotopic models. ICVB-1042 was well tolerated in mice compared to HAdV-C5 (Wt Ad5), with reduced liver sequestration, supporting safety of the drug for systemic delivery. These preclinical data demonstrating the safety and potency of ICVB-1042 for treatment of various solid tumors support the ongoing clinical investigation (NCT05904236).
Multiomics reveals microbial metabolites as key actors in intestinal fibrosis in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Li Xuehua , Hu Shixian , Shen Xiaodi , Zhang Ruonan , Liu Caiguang , Xiao Lin , Lin Jinjiang , Huang Li , He Weitao , Wang Xinyue , Huang Lili , Zheng Qingzhu , Wu Luyao , Sun Canhui , Peng Zhenpeng , Chen Minhu , Li Ziping , Feng Rui , Zhu Yijun , Wang Yangdi , Li Zhoulei , Mao Ren , Feng Shi-Ting
Published: September 2024

Intestinal fibrosis is the primary cause of disability in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), yet effective therapeutic strategies are currently lacking. Here, we report a multiomics analysis of gut microbiota and fecal/blood metabolites of 278 CD patients and 28 healthy controls, identifying characteristic alterations in gut microbiota (e.g., Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Muribaculaceae, Saccharimonadales) and metabolites (e.g., L-aspartic acid, glutamine, ethylmethylacetic acid) in moderate-severe intestinal fibrosis. By integrating multiomics data with magnetic resonance enterography features, putative links between microbial metabolites and intestinal fibrosis-associated morphological alterations were established. These potential associations were mediated by specific combinations of amino acids (e.g., L-aspartic acid), primary bile acids, and glutamine. Finally, we provided causal evidence that L-aspartic acid aggravated intestinal fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, we offer a biologically plausible explanation for the hypothesis that gut microbiota and its metabolites promote intestinal fibrosis in CD while also identifying potential targets for therapeutic trials.
An intrinsic mechanism of metabolic tuning promotes cardiac resilience to stress
Authors: Sorge Matteo , Savoré Giulia , Gallo Andrea , Acquarone Davide , Sbroggiò Mauro , Velasco Silvia , Zamporlini Federica , Femminò Saveria , Moiso Enrico , Morciano Giampaolo , Balmas Elisa , Raimondi Andrea , Nattenberg Gabrielle , Stefania Rachele , Tacchetti Carlo , Rizzo Angela Maria , Corsetto Paola , Ghigo Alessandra , Turco Emilia , Altruda Fiorella , Silengo Lorenzo , Pinton Paolo , Raffaelli Nadia , Sniadecki Nathan J , Penna Claudia , Pagliaro Pasquale , Hirsch Emilio , Riganti Chiara , Tarone Guido , Bertero Alessandro , Brancaccio Mara
Published: September 2024

Defining the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac resilience is crucial to find effective approaches to protect the heart. A physiologic level of ROS is produced in the heart by fatty acid oxidation, but stressful events can boost ROS and cause mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac functional impairment. Melusin is a muscle specific chaperone required for myocardial compensatory remodeling during stress. Here we report that Melusin localizes in mitochondria where it binds the mitochondrial trifunctional protein, a key enzyme in fatty acid oxidation, and decreases it activity. Studying both mice and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes, we found that Melusin reduces lipid oxidation in the myocardium and limits ROS generation in steady state and during pressure overload and doxorubicin treatment, preventing mitochondrial dysfunction. Accordingly, the treatment with the lipid oxidation inhibitor Trimetazidine concomitantly with stressful stimuli limits ROS accumulation and prevents long-term heart dysfunction. These findings disclose a physiologic mechanism of metabolic regulation in the heart and demonstrate that a timely restriction of lipid metabolism represents a potential therapeutic strategy to improve cardiac resilience to stress.
Solution-processed structural colors and their applications
Authors: Feng Wei-Jie , Paik Jennie , Guo L. Jay
Published: September 2024

High-quality and brilliant structural colors have been successfully produced using solution-based process over the past decade.
Lactobionic acid matrix supramolecular complexes with enhanced bioavailability and clinical efficacy as an optimal CP system
Authors: Wang Hao , Huo Yongli , Wang Jialin , Huang Jinxu , Liao Ya , Liao Zhijian , Zhou Huwu , Zhang Xin , Huang Xiaomei , Wang Zhenyuan , Zhang Jiaheng
Published: September 2024

Despite the biological activity of lactobionic acid (LBA), its low bioavailability remains a challenge in response to complex clinical needs.
Reference-free quantitative mass spectrometry in the presence of nonlinear distortion caused by in situ chemical reactions among constituents
Authors: Hibi Yusuke
Published: September 2024

Nonlinear reference-free analysis in pyrolysis-MS enables accurate compositional analysis even in reactive and interactive systems.
Coaxial burner system for solid-sample flame emission spectroscopy
Authors: Bernicky Adam , Davis Boyd , Loock Hans-Peter
Published: September 2024

We present a burner system to analyze solid, inflammable samples by flame emission spectroscopy without requiring any sample preparation procedures.
Access to capped RNAs by chemical ligation
Authors: Bartosik Karolina , Micura Ronald
Published: September 2024

A practical approach to generate mRNA 5′-fragments with clicked triazole linkages in the backbone is presented.
Cubane-1,3-dicarboxamides as structural isosteres for isophthalamides in hydrogen bond templated interlocked molecules
Authors: Barlow Sean R. , Halcovitch Nathan R. , Akien Geoffrey R. , Coote Susannah C. , Evans Nicholas H.
Published: September 2024

The first examples of cubane containing interlocked molecules are reported—prepared by hydrogen bond templation with cubane-1,3-dicarboxamides replacing isophthalamide motifs.
Interfacial defect capture-induced abnormal fluorescence decay lifetime of CsPbBr3/CsPbBr3 nanodisks
Authors: Zhang Xuebin , Cheng Kaiye , Xu Qin , Yang Dandan , Zeng Haibo
Published: September 2024

Assembled CsPbBr3/CsPbBr3 nanodisks with interfacial defects had lower exciton binding energy and weaker electron–phonon coupling, displaying an abnormal fluorescence decay lifetime of 102.6 ns.
Ru Prussian blue analogue-derived Ru nanoparticles composited with a trace amount of Pt as an efficacious electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Sadangi Manisha , Chakravarty Chandrima , Bhattacharjee Joydeep , Behera J. N.
Published: September 2024

An Ru/Pt nanocomposite, i.e. Ru@C/Pt0.5, derived from Ru-PBA act as an excellent electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), delivering a benchmark current density of 10 mA cm−2 at only a small overpotential of 32 mV.
Bioinspired anion exchange membranes with dual steric cross-linking centers for industrial-scale water electrolysis
Authors: Tang Tang , Lee Husileng , Wang Zhiwei , Li Zhiheng , Wang Linqin , Chen Dexin , Zheng Wentao , Liu Qinglu , He Lanlan , Ding Guoheng , Tian Ziyu , Sun Licheng
Published: September 2024

A precise molecular regulation approach was proposed to design high-performance and high-stability spatially crosslinking AEMs that boosted the industrial-scale AEM-WE.
The impact of surfaces on indoor air chemistry following cooking and cleaning
Authors: Harding-Smith Ellen , Davies Helen L. , O'Leary Catherine , Winkless Ruth , Shaw Marvin , Dillon Terry , Jones Benjamin , Carslaw Nicola
Published: September 2024

Cooking and cleaning are common sources of indoor air pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Spiers Memorial Lecture: How to do impactful research in artificial intelligence for chemistry and materials science
Authors: Cheng Austin H. , Ser Cher Tian , Skreta Marta , Guzmán-Cordero Andrés , Thiede Luca , Burger Andreas , Aldossary Abdulrahman , Leong Shi Xuan , Pablo-García Sergio , Strieth-Kalthoff Felix , Aspuru-Guzik Alán
Published: September 2024

We discuss how machine learning researchers view and approach problems in chemistry and provide our considerations for maximizing impact when researching machine learning for chemistry.
Dietary eugenol ameliorates long-term high-fat diet-induced skeletal muscle atrophy: mechanistic insights from integrated multi-omics
Authors: Li Mengjie , Guo Jingya , Qin Yige , Lao Yujie , Kang Seong-Gook , Huang Kunlun , Tong Tao
Published: September 2024

EU supplementation ameliorates HFD-induced skeletal muscle atrophy. The underlying mechanism of the beneficial effects of EU is related to the regulation of gut microbiota, GAS muscle metabolic profile, and GAS transcriptomic profile.
Electrolyte-dependent deposition morphology on magnesium metal utilizing MeMgCl, Mg[B(hfip)4]2 and Mg(HMDS)2–2AlCl3 electrolytes
Authors: Leuppert Leon , Reupert Adam , Diemant Thomas , Philipp Tom , Kranz Christine , Li Zhenyou , Fichtner Maximilian
Published: September 2024

Mg deposition study of state-of-the-art Mg[B(hfip)4]2 and Mg(HMDS)2–2AlCl3 electrolytes regarding dendrite formation for beyond-lithium magnesium batteries.
Evaluating the therapeutic potential of genetically engineered probiotic Zbiotics (ZB183) for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) management via modulation of the cGAS-STING pathway
Authors: Saad Maha , Ibrahim Walaa , Hasanin Amany Helmy , Elyamany Aya Magdy , Matboli Marwa
Published: September 2024

ZBiotics administration in the NASH model downregulated the RNA panel (MAPK3, EDN1, TNF, miR-6888-5p, lncRNA RABGAP1L-DT-206), restored intestinal barrier integrity, reduced hepatic inflammation, and improved lipid profiles and liver enzymes.
Enhanced environmental adaptability of sandwich-like MoS2/Ag/WC nanomultilayer films via Ag nanoparticle diffusion-dominated defect repair
Authors: Yang Min , Fan Xin , Ren Siming , Wang Liping
Published: September 2024

A self-healing MoS2/Ag/WC sandwich-like architecture utilizes spontaneous Ag atom diffusion to repair film defects and ensure long-lasting lubrication in extreme environments.
A lipid droplet-targeted fluorescent probe for fluorescence imaging of cell and zebrafish viscosity
Authors: Zheng Hua , Li Guofang , Zhang Langdi , Fan Minguang , Lin Weiying
Published: September 2024

Lipid droplets (LDs) represent highly dynamic organelles found in almost all organisms and play a pivotal role in regulating the balance of intracellular lipid homeostasis.
Understanding structural isomerism in organoiridium picolinamidate complexes and its consequences on reactivity and biological properties
Authors: Nguyen Hieu D. , Laconsay Croix J. , Jana Rahul D. , Ganguly Tuhin , Hoang Sally T. , Kaushal Kanika , Wu Judy I. , Do Loi H.
Published: September 2024

Insights into structural isomerization in organoiridium picolinamidate complexes were obtained through experimental studies and density functional theory calculations.
Supramolecular interaction of a molecular catalyst with a polymeric carbon nitride photoanode enhances photoelectrochemical activity and stability at neutral pH
Authors: Mondal Sanjit , Salati Martina , Nicaso Marco , Albero Josep , Segado-Centellas Mireia , Volokh Michael , Bo Carles , García Hermenegildo , Gil-Sepulcre Marcos , Llobet Antoni , Shalom Menny
Published: September 2024

Supramolecular interaction of a Ru15 oligomeric catalyst with polymeric carbon nitride forms CNTM–Ru15 hybrid system, achieving high photoelectrochemical water-splitting activity, enhanced stability, and >89% faradaic efficiency for O2 at neutral pH.
Dual active site-mediated Ir single-atom-doped RuO2 catalysts for highly efficient and stable water splitting
Authors: Tao Zhenhua , Lv Ning , Zhao Hongyu , Luo Xu , Li Zilan , Yu Jun , Chen Lei , Liu Xupo , Mu Shichun
Published: September 2024

Ru and Ir sites on Ir single-atom-doped RuO2 with the lowest rate-determining step reaction energy barriers towards the HER and OER, respectively.
Integrating advanced fitting models with experimental catalysis to maximize H2 production in dry reforming using nickel on metalized-silica-alumina catalysts
Authors: Al-Fatesh Ahmed S. , Osman Ahmed I. , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Alanazi Yousef M. , Fakeeha Anis H. , Abasaeed Ahmed E. , Almubaddel Fahad Saleh
Published: September 2024

This study explores the enhancement of hydrogen production via dry reforming of methane (DRM) using nickel catalysts supported on metalized silica-alumina.
Cobaltocenium-containing poly(carbazole)s towards alkaline-stable anion exchange membranes via post-polymerization modification
Authors: Chen Jin , Yan Jing , Yang Weihong , Xu Yunxin , Chi Rui , Zhang Qiuyu , Yan Yi
Published: September 2024

The combination of superacid-catalyzed polyhydroxyalkylation and CuAAC post-polymerization modification gives robust alkali-resistant cobaltocenium-containing poly(carbazole) AEMs.
Low-pressure hydrogen sensing mechanism based on the field emission of defect-controlled ZnO nanorods
Authors: Dong Mingliang , Qian Weijin , Tu Youqing , Chen Guitao , Huang Weijun , Luo Haijun , Dong Changkun
Published: September 2024

The work function of ZnO is reduced with H adsorbed on oxygen defects, leading to the hydrogen sensing effect.
Sensitizer-rich core–shell–shell upconversion nanoparticles for enhancing luminescence by spatial separation
Authors: Zhang Yujiao , Wang Pengli , Li Jiaxin , Geng Jia , Zhou Cuisong
Published: September 2024

Schematic description of CS and CSS, and the sensor based on the CSS-doped fibrous membrane (CDFM) for detecting single droplet RhB.
ESIPT-modulated HBT–o-carborane dyads with efficient aggregation-induced emission and acid-induced discolouration properties
Authors: Wu Xueyan , Zhang Chenxi , Li Na , Lv Yan , Chi Jinxia , Guo Jixi
Published: September 2024

ESIPT+ICT regulated HBT–o-carborane dyads with efficient AIE.
Entangling roles of cholesterol-dependent interaction and cholesterol-mediated lipid phase heterogeneity in regulating listeriolysin O pore-formation
Authors: Lata Kusum , Anderluh Gregor , Chattopadhyay Kausik
Published: September 2024

Cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) are the distinct class of β-barrel pore-forming toxins (β-PFTs) that attack eukaryotic cell membranes, and form large, oligomeric, transmembrane β-barrel pores. Listeriolysin O (LLO) is a prominent member in the CDC family. As documented for the other CDCs, membrane cholesterol is essential for the pore-forming functionality of LLO. However, it remains obscure how exactly cholesterol facilitates its pore formation. Here, we show that cholesterol promotes both membrane-binding and oligomerization of LLO. We demonstrate cholesterol not only facilitates membrane-binding, it also enhances the saturation threshold of LLO-membrane association, and alteration of the cholesterol-recognition motif in the LLO mutant (LLOT515G-L516G) compromises its pore-forming efficacy. Interestingly, such defect of LLOT515G-L516G could be rescued in the presence of higher membrane cholesterol levels, suggesting cholesterol can augment the pore-forming efficacy of LLO even in the absence of a direct toxin-cholesterol interaction. Furthermore, we find the membrane-binding and pore-forming abilities of LLOT515G-L516G, but not those of LLO, correlate with the cholesterol-dependent rigidity/ordering of the membrane lipid bilayer. Our data further suggest that the line tension derived from the lipid phase heterogeneity of the cholesterol-containing membranes could play a pivotal role in LLO function, particularly in the absence of cholesterol binding. Therefore, in addition to its receptor-like role, we conclude cholesterol can further facilitate the pore-forming, membrane-damaging functionality of LLO by asserting the optimal physicochemical environment in membranes. To the best of our knowledge, this aspect of the cholesterol-mediated regulation of the CDC mode of action has not been appreciated thus far.
The mass distribution of stellar mergers
Authors: Dvořáková N. , Korčáková D. , Dinnbier F. , Kroupa P.
Published: September 2024

Context. FS CMa stars belong to a diverse group of stars exhibiting the B[e] phenomenon, which manifests itself mainly by the presence of forbidden emission lines and a strong infrared (IR) excess in their spectra. Only a few tens of FS CMa stars are known and their nature is still unclear. Recently, a strong magnetic field has been discovered in the FS CMa star IRAS 17449+2320. Its strength combined with an unusually high space velocity in the direction of the Galactic north pole point to the object having a post-merger nature. Such stellar mergers may provide an explanation for the complex and sometimes chaotic behaviour of some of the FS CMa stars.

Aims. In order to find out whether B-type stellar mergers are detectable, we did a statistical study of numerical simulations using Aarseth’s NBODY6 code. We show the importance of stellar mergers of low- to intermediate-mass stars (from ≈1.4 to ≈8 M⊙) and for B-type stars in particular.

Methods. We analysed two sets of N-body simulations with different initial orbital period distributions. In the simulations, more massive binaries are treated differently than less massive binaries and the mass limit usually used is 5 M⊙. In addition to this, we also used the value of 2 M⊙ to test the influence of this ambiguous limit on the results. Looking at mass, distance from their birth cluster, and velocity distributions, we investigated the statistical significance of individual spectral types in terms of merger dynamics and how merger events affect the stellar evolution.

Results. We have found that around 50% of stars in the simulated open clusters involved in the formation of mergers are B-type stars. As a result, more than 50% of the merger products end up as a B-type star as well. Also, between 12.54% and 23.24% of all B-type stars are mergers. These results are a natural consequence of the initial mass function, initial distribution of the binary star parameters, and large range of masses for B-type stars. A non-negligible fraction of mergers occurred before entering the common envelope phase and we detected merger events at extragalactic distances. The total amount of detected mergers could have an impact on the chemical evolution of galaxies. The resulting mass distribution of merger products shows a peak for A-type stars, which is in agreement with observed massive Ap stars. Post-mergers among late B-type FS CMa stars could be the progenitors of very massive magnetic Ap stars. our results could also help to explain the nature of some magnetic white dwarfs. We present a comparison of the W component and the space velocity of the simulated mergers with a sample of observed FS CMa stars.
Spatial weights in loudness judgements
Authors: Hots Jan , Oberfeld Daniel , Verhey Jesko L.
Published: September 2024

In everyday life, the auditory system often receives input from various sound sources at different positions in space more or less simultaneously. The present study investigates how listeners weight different spatial positions when judging the overall loudness of a spatially distributed sound field. Spatial weights were measured in two conditions. In both conditions, sounds were presented from five spatial positions: front, left, right, top and back, using five loudspeakers distributed spatially around the listener. In the first condition, bandpass noises were presented simultaneously on all five loudspeakers. The sounds emanating from the different loudspeakers did not overlap spectrally, to ensure that they could be differentiated from each other. In the second condition, a broadband noise was presented at each of the five spatial positions. In this condition, sounds from the five different positions were presented consecutively. In both conditions, listeners judged the overall loudness of the sound fields. Before measuring spatial weights, all sounds were equalised in loudness. Both conditions showed virtually identical spatial weights for all five spatial positions. Thus, the weight assigned to a specific sound source in judgments of the overall loudness of spatially distributed sound fields appears to be unaffected by the spatial position of the source.
Tighter convex underestimator for general twice differentiable function for global optimization
Authors: Zerrouki Djamel , Ouanes Mohand
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a new convex underestimator for general C2 nonconvex functions. The new underestimator can be used in the branch and bound algorithm αBB for solving global optimization problems. We show that the new underestimator is tighter than the classical underestimator in the αBB method.
Interval efficiency estimation using relational dynamic DEA approach: case of Indian banks
Authors: Kaur Rajinder , Puri Jolly
Published: September 2024

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) facilitates relative performance estimation of homogenous decision-making units (DMUs), whereas dynamic DEA pertains to intertemporal elements like carryovers for measuring DMUs’ efficiencies over time. To enhance DMU’s performance, there is a need to measure its efficiency with dynamic structure and further to determine input-output target points for making significant improvements in an inefficient DMU. Therefore, the present study proposes a relational dynamic DEA approach that comprises a dynamic structure in which periods are connected through good and bad links/carry-overs along with desirable and undesirable outputs and utilizes interval data. The system and period efficiency intervals are derived using a unique set of weights based on common weights methodology. Moreover, the relationship between the complement of the lower (upper) bound system and period efficiencies is established. Lastly, the input-output target points are suggested to improve DMUs in terms of upper-bound system efficiencies in a dynamic environment. To validate the usefulness of the proposed approach, a case study in Indian banks for the period 2017– 2021 is presented. This study investigates the impact of stressed assets (bad link/carryover) and loss due to non-performing assets (bad/undesirable output) on banks’ dynamic efficiency. The results are compared with the static structure. The findings, targets, and implications of the study can assist bank experts and policymakers in formulating policies/strategies for further improvements.
Von disseminierten Tumorzellen zur ctDNA – Liquid Biopsies im Mammakarzinom und die Erkenntnisse der letzten 20 Jahre
Authors: Pfister Kerstin , Huesmann Sophia , Fink Angelina , Schäffler Henning , Heublein Sabine , Rack Brigitte , Janni Wolfgang
Published: September 2024

Liquid Biopsies, blutbasierte Biomarker, haben einen immer größer werdenden Stellenwert in der Überwachung und Therapiesteuerung onkologischer Erkrankungen erreicht. Beim frühen Mammakarzinom gehen dem bildgebend nachgewiesen Lokal- oder Fernrezidiv oft monate- bis jahrelang Tumorresiduen voraus (minimale Resterkrankung, MRD), welche durch die immer sensitiver werdenden Methoden nachgewiesen werden können. Den aktuell größten klinischen Stellenwert haben zirkulierende Tumorzellen und freie Tumor-DNA. Eine bessere Überwachung im Sinne einer intensivierten Nachsorge kann ein neues Therapiefenster zwischen der frühen Brustkrebserkrankung und der metastasierten Situation eröffnen. Durch eine post-adjuvante Therapie kann so die Prognose der Patient*innen potenziell deutlich verbessert werden.
Bis hierher und nicht weiter – Gesunde Abgrenzung
Authors: Holtmeier Lisa
Published: September 2024

Grenzen zu setzen ist im Arbeitsalltag gerade von Therapeut*innen zwingend notwendig, um langfristig gesund zu bleiben und Freude am Beruf zu haben. Aber wie funktioniert gesunde Abgrenzung? Welche Formen von Grenzen gibt es und wie können Sie und Ihre Mitarbeitenden in der Praxis nachhaltig auf sich und Ihren „inneren Garten“ achten?
„Es ist das Höchste, bei Olympischen Spielen dabei zu sein“ – Interview mit Axel Kautz
Authors: Kautz Axel
Published: September 2024

Axel Kautz war als Physiotherapeut bei Olympischen Sommer- und Winterspielen dabei. Nun möchte er als Ausbilder seine Erfahrungen mit anderen teilen.
Diiodine–Triethylsilane System: A Practical Method for Deprotection of Aryl Benzyl Ethers
Authors: Jiang Jin , Wang Zhuo
Published: September 2024

A practical method for the debenzylation of aryl benzyl ethers has been developed using easy-to-operate I2 and Et3SiH, as well as the green solvent ethyl acetate. Halo, methoxy, ester, and nitro groups on the benzene ring of the aryl benzyl ether are compatible with this debenzylation. Control experiments revealed that Et3SiI, generated in situ, might be the actual promoter of the procedure. This method does not require a separate desilylation reaction to obtain phenol products.
Hearing Loss and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Profiles: Data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Baiduc Rachael R. , Bogle Brittany , Gonzalez II Franklyn , Dinces Elizabeth , Lee David J. , Daviglus Martha L. , Dhar Sumitrajit , Cai Jianwen
Published: September 2024

Abstract Background Individual cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors (RFs) have been associated with hearing loss (HL). The relationship to aggregate risk is poorly understood and has not been explored in the Hispanic/Latino population. Purpose The
aim of this study was to characterize the association between aggregate CVD RF burden and hearing among Hispanics/Latinos. Research Design Cross-sectional examination. Study Sample Participants (18‐74 years; n = 12,766) in the Hispanic
Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. Data Collection and Analysis Thresholds (0.5‐8 kHz) were obtained, and HL was defined dichotomously as pure-tone average (PTA0.5,1, 2,4) > 25 dB HL. Optimal CVD risk burden was defined
as follows: systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 120 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) < 80 mm Hg; total cholesterol < 180 mg/dL; nonsmoking; and no diabetes. Major CVD RFs were diabetes, currently smoking, SBP >160
or DBP > 100 mm Hg (or antihypertensives), and total cholesterol > 240 mg/dL (or statins). Thresholds were estimated by age (18‐44 and ≥45 years) and sex using linear regression. The association between CVD risk burden and HL was assessed
using multivariable logistic regression. Models were adjusted for age, sex, Hispanic/Latino background, center, education, income, alcohol use, body mass index, and noise exposure. Results In the target population, 53.03% were female and 18.81% and 8.52% had all RFs optimal
and ≥2 major RFs, respectively. Elevated BP (SBP 120‐139 mm Hg or DBP 80‐89 mm Hg) was associated with HL in females < 45 years (odds ratio [OR], 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14‐4.16). Diabetes (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.84)
and tobacco smoking (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.03‐2.01) were associated with HL in females ≥ 45 years. The odds of HL were higher for females ≥ 45 years with ≥2 RFs versus those with all RFs optimal (OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.12‐3.53). Elevated BP (SBP 140‐159 mm Hg
or DBP 90‐99 mm Hg), but not aggregate risk burden, was associated with HL in males ≥ 45 years (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.02‐2.19). No relationships with major CVD RFs were significant in males < 45 years. Conclusions HL is associated with
elevated BP in females < 45 years, with diabetes and hypertension in males ≥ 45 years, and with diabetes, smoking, and having ≥2 major CVD RFs in females ≥ 45 years. Future studies are needed to examine if these factors are associated with incident HL.
Survival Correlates with Regurgitation Degree Before and After Invasive Atrioventricular Valve Treatment
Authors: Doenst Torsten , Caldonazo Tulio , Mukharyamov Murat , Tasoudis Panagiotis , Kirov Hristo
Published: September 2024

The degree of both mitral (MR) and tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) correlates with mortality. A vicious cycle has been proposed consisting of increasing regurgitation and decreasing ventricular function. Restoration of valve competence should break this vicious cycle and improve life expectancy. However, a “pop-off” mechanism keeps being entertained, presumably allowing poorly pumping ventricles to relieve volume into the low-pressure atrium through an incomplete repair, avoiding pump failure. We reasoned that if such a mechanism exists, it should offset the relationship between mortality and valve regurgitation after an invasive procedure. In this context, we meta-analytically compared valve regurgitation degree and survival before or after atrio-ventricular valve treatment. The results show significant relationships between valve regurgitation and mortality under all conditions (i.e., before and after surgery or intervention) and irrespective of the underlying pathology (i.e., functional or structural). In summary, the ubiquitously present relationship between valve regurgitation and mortality suggests that generating a tight and durable repair of the affected valve is key to long-term exploitation of a symptom-reducing and life-prologing mechanism, independent of the underlying valve pathology. This recognition may explain current controversies in the treatment effects of MR and TR.
Designing a hollow MoSe2/CuS nanospheres type-II heterojunction photocatalyst with superior UV–vis-NIR absorption for photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Zhang Zhilong , Wu Rong , Yue Jianyong , Zhu YaLi , Hui JiaLei
Published: September 2024

In this work, a hollow MoSe2/CuS type-II heterojunction was fabricated using hollow MoSe2 nanospheres as the basis for structural design. UV–Vis–NIR diffuse absorption tests show that MoSe2/CuS has a broad spectral absorption to extend the optical response range from UV–Vis to NIR. The light source utilization rate and interfacial area are increased by the hollow MoSe2/CuS core–shell structure. The broad absorption ability of MoSe2/CuS can facilitate the photocatalysis process. As the electrochemical impedance of MoSe2/CuS is lower than that of the MoSe2, MoSe2/CuS has a good photogenerated carrier separation efficiency. Benefiting from the synergistic facilitation effect of the multi-level 3D hollow nanosphere and the significant space charge region in type-II heterojunction, the RhB degradation efficiency of MoSe2/CuS reached 96.0% in 120.0 min under Xe (350 W) broadband spectrum light irradiation. The photocatalysis mechanism of the hollow MoSe2/CuS core–shell structure was investigated. This work provides an insight into the application of broad spectrum semiconductor heterojunctions to solve environmental problems.
On the effect of polarization relaxation on dielectric breakdown
Authors: Blonkowski Serge
Published: September 2024

This article discusses the effect of polarization relaxation on dielectric breakdown. We establish analytical statistical Weibull distributions, taking into account the changing local electric field instead of the usual static field in acceleration models. The time dependence of the local field is expressed using the universal Curie–Von Schweidler law. The derived distribution fits well with various observations on time-to-breakdown statistical distributions. In the case of voltage square pulse alternative stress, the calculated time to breakdown follows a power law with stress frequency, regardless of the field dependence of the acceleration model, consistent with observations. The dielectric lifetime is longer compared to continuous voltage stress, as observed in transistors and integrated capacitors. The analytical expression of the power law exponent depends on the field acceleration model and polarization current. It matches well with the measured values for metal–oxide–semiconductor and metal insulator metal capacitors with different dielectrics. The power law exponent increases with the static dielectric constant. The Weibull shape factor is shown to be lower in the AC mode than in the DC mode, as observed. The AC signal duty factor effect decreases the lifetime in the AC mode. Finally, we demonstrate that the consequence of polarization relaxation also affects the lifetime in the DC mode. The acceleration factor and lifetime projections are close to power laws with the field, regardless of the static field dependence of the acceleration model.
Radiated power and soft x-ray diagnostics in the SMART tokamak
Authors: Salas-Suárez-Bárcena J. , Delgado-Aparicio L. F. , Segado-Fernández J. , Rodríguez-González A. , McKay K. A. , Cruz-Zabala D. J. , Hidalgo-Salaverri J. , García-Domínguez J. , García-Muñoz M. , Viezzer E. , Galdón-Quiroga J.
Published: September 2024

A multi-energy soft x-ray diagnostic is planned to operate in the small aspect ratio tokamak (SMART), consisting of five cameras: one for core measurements, two for edge, and two for divertors. Each camera is equipped with four absolute extreme ultra-violet diodes, with three of them filtered by Ti and Al foils for C and O line emissions, respectively, and Be foils for temperature measurements. In addition, two spectrometers will be installed with a vertical line of sight for impurity control. This study introduces a synthetic model designed to characterize radiated power and soft x-ray emissions. The developed code extracts the radiated power and Zeff values by leveraging distributions of electron density, temperatures, and impurity concentrations. The investigation is centered on the predicted scenarios of SMART’s first phase of operation (Ip = 100 kA; Bt = 0.1 T), employing a double-null configuration with positive and negative triangularity. The anticipated impurities encompass C (1%) and Fe (0.01%) from the vessel, as well as O and N (0.1%) from air and water. For simplicity, the distribution is assumed to be homogeneous within the plasma, considering different mixtures with Zeff values ranging between 1 and 2. Finally, the model estimates signal strength for the diagnostic design, proving its feasibility.
Experimental study of wind loads on tubular and tubular-angle steel cross-arms of transmission towers
Authors: Ye Junchen , Niu Huawei , Liu Ganbin , Yang Fengli , Zhang Hongjie , Chen Zhengqing
Published: September 2024

The main structure of the transmission tower consists of the tower body and the cross arm, which serve as vertical support and transverse extension, respectively. Compared with the tower body, due to the difference between the transverse and longitudinal projected areas of the cross-arm, the wind load distribution of the cross-arm is more complicated and requires more in-depth research. In this paper, wind tunnel force tests under skew wind were carried out on the 1:20 scaled rigid models of the tubular and the tubular-angle combined cross-arms. The tests consider four solidity ratios (0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5) under three wind speeds and 19 yaw angles. The aerodynamic force coefficients Ci, the skewed wind load factor Kθ, the transversal and longitudinal wind load distribution factor nX and nY, and the angle α between the transversal aerodynamic force coefficient (CX) and the resultant wind force coefficient (CR) were obtained and analyzed. It was found that the wind load coefficients decrease with increasing solidity ratio. The tested drag coefficient of the tubular cross-arm is larger than the combined cross-arm under the same solidity ratio. The nX of the tubular and combined cross-arm reaches the maximum range of 0.33–0.47 and 0.22–0.23 at 30° <θ < 45° and 30° < θ < 35°, respectively. The nY curves were ordered from large to small as follows: EN 50341-1, the tested tubular cross-arm, the tested combined cross-arm, and JEC-127-1979. At 55° < θ < 65°, the difference of α and θ for the tested tubular and combined cross-arm reaches the maximum of 10°–18° and 29°–32°, respectively, indicating that the lift force cannot be ignored and the assumption α = θ is not applicable. Reasonable nonlinear fitting functions are proposed to accurately calculate the wind load of the two types of cross-arms.