bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidepressant-induced membrane trafficking regulates blood-brain barrier permeability
Authors: Du Wenjia , Chen Huanhuan , Gróf Ilona , Lemaitre Lucien , Bocsik Alexandra , Perdyan Adrian , Mieczkowski Jakub , Deli Mária A. , Hortobágyi Tibor , Wan Qi , Glebov Oleg O.
Published: May 2024

As the most prescribed psychotropic drugs in current medical practice, antidepressant drugs (ADs) of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class represent prime candidates for drug repurposing. The mechanisms underlying their mode of action, however, remain unclear. Here, we show that common SSRIs and selected representatives of other AD classes bidirectionally regulate fluid-phase uptake at therapeutic concentrations and below. We further characterize membrane trafficking induced by a canonical SSRI fluvoxamine to show that it involves enhancement of clathrin-mediated endocytosis, endosomal system, and exocytosis. RNA sequencing analysis showed few fluvoxamine-associated differences, consistent with the effect being independent of gene expression. Fluvoxamine-induced increase in membrane trafficking boosted transcytosis in cell-based blood-brain barrier models, while a single injection of fluvoxamine was sufficient to enable brain accumulation of a fluid-phase fluorescent tracer in vivo. These findings reveal modulation of membrane trafficking by ADs as a possible cellular mechanism of action and indicate their clinical repositioning potential for regulating drug delivery to the brain.
BRD9 regulates normal human hematopoietic stem cell function and lineage differentiation
Authors: Garg Swati , Ni Wei , Chowdhury Basudev , Weisberg Ellen L. , Sattler Martin , Griffin James D.
Published: May 2024

Bromodomain containing protein 9 (BRD9), a member of the non-canonical BRG1/BRM-associated factor (ncBAF) chromatin remodeling complex, has been implicated as a synthetic lethal target in AML but its function in normal human hematopoiesis is unknown. In hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) genomic or chemical inhibition of BRD9 led to a proliferative disadvantage and loss of stem cells in vitro. Human HSPCs with reduced BRD9 protein levels produced lower numbers of immature mixed multipotent GEMM colonies in semi-solid media. In lineage-promoting culture conditions, cells with reduced BRD9 levels failed to differentiate into the megakaryocytic lineage and showed delayed differentiation into erythroid cells but enhanced terminal myeloid differentiation. HSPCs with BRD9 knock down (KD) had reduced long-term multilineage engraftment in a xenotransplantation assay. An increased number of downregulated genes in RNAseq analysis after BRD9 KD coupled with a gain in chromatin accessibility at the promoters of several repressive transcription factors (TF) suggest that BRD9 functions in the maintenance of active transcription during HSC differentiation. In particular, the hematopoietic master regulator GATA1 was identified as one of the core TFs regulating the gene networks modulated by BRD9 loss in HSPCs. BRD9 inhibition reduced a GATA1-luciferase reporter signal, further suggesting a role for BRD9 in regulating GATA1 activity. BRD9 is therefore an additional example of epigenetic regulation of human hematopoiesis.
Extracellular vesicles mediated gastric cancer immune response: tumor cell death or immune escape?
Authors: Yang Shuo , Wei Shibo , Wei Fang
Published: May 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is a major global health issue, being the fifth most prevalent cancer and the third highest contributor to cancer-related deaths. Although treatment strategies for GC have diversified, the prognosis for advanced GC remains poor. Hence, there is a critical need to explore new directions for GC treatment to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and patient prognosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players in tumor development and progression. Different sources of EVs carry different molecules, resulting in distinct biological functions. For instance, tumor-derived EVs can promote tumor cell proliferation, alter the tumor microenvironment and immune response, while EVs derived from immune cells carry molecules that regulate immune function and possess tumor-killing capabilities. Numerous studies have demonstrated the crucial role of EVs in the development, immune escape, and immune microenvironment remodeling in GC. In this review, we discuss the role of GC-derived EVs in immune microenvironment remodeling and EVs derived from immune cells in GC development. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the potential uses of EVs in immunotherapy for GC.
ARID1B maintains mesenchymal stem cell quiescence via inhibition of BCL11B-mediated non-canonical Activin signaling
Authors: Zhang Mingyi , Guo Tingwei , Pei Fei , Feng Jifan , Jing Junjun , Xu Jian , Yamada Takahiko , Ho Thach-Vu , Du Jiahui , Sehgal Prerna , Chai Yang
Published: May 2024

ARID1B haploinsufficiency in humans causes Coffin-Siris syndrome, associated with developmental delay, facial dysmorphism, and intellectual disability. The role of ARID1B has been widely studied in neuronal development, but whether it also regulates stem cells remains unknown. Here, we employ scRNA-seq and scATAC-seq to dissect the regulatory functions and mechanisms of ARID1B within mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) using the mouse incisor model. We reveal that loss of Arid1b in the GLI1+ MSC lineage disturbs MSCs’ quiescence and leads to their proliferation due to the ectopic activation of non-canonical Activin signaling via p-ERK. Furthermore, loss of Arid1b upregulates Bcl11b, which encodes a BAF complex subunit that modulates non-canonical Activin signaling by directly regulating the expression of activin A subunit, Inhba. Reduction of Bcl11b or non-canonical Activin signaling restores the MSC population in Arid1b mutant mice. Notably, we have identified that ARID1B suppresses Bcl11b expression via specific binding to its third intron, unveiling the direct inter-regulatory interactions among BAF subunits in MSCs. Our results demonstrate the vital role of ARID1B as an epigenetic modifier in maintaining MSC homeostasis and reveal its intricate mechanistic regulatory network in vivo, providing novel insights into the linkage between chromatin remodeling and stem cell fate determination.
Cryo-EM structures of Thogoto virus polymerase reveal unique RNA transcription and replication mechanisms among orthomyxoviruses
Authors: Xue Lu , Chang Tiancai , Li Zimu , Wang Chenchen , Zhao Heyu , Li Mei , Tang Peng , Wen Xin , Yu Mengmeng , Wu Jiqin , Bao Xichen , Wang Xiaojun , Gong Peng , He Jun , Chen Xinwen , Xiong Xiaoli
Published: May 2024

Influenza viruses and thogotoviruses account for most recognized orthomyxoviruses. Thogotoviruses, exemplified by Thogoto virus (THOV), are capable of infecting humans using ticks as vectors. THOV transcribes mRNA without the extraneous 5′ end sequences derived from cap-snatching in influenza virus mRNA. Here, we report cryo-EM structures to characterize THOV polymerase RNA synthesis initiation and elongation. The structures demonstrate that THOV RNA transcription and replication are able to start with short dinucleotide primers and that the polymerase cap-snatching machinery is likely non-functional. Triggered by RNA synthesis, asymmetric THOV polymerase dimers can form without the involvement of host factors. We confirm that, distinctive from influenza viruses, THOV-polymerase RNA synthesis is weakly dependent of the host factors ANP32A/B/E in human cells. This study demonstrates varied mechanisms in RNA synthesis and host factor utilization among orthomyxoviruses, providing insights into the mechanisms behind thogotoviruses’ broad-infectivity range.
Observation of the photonic Hall effect and photonic magnetoresistance in random lasers
Authors: Du Wenyu , Hu Lei , Xia Jiangying , Zhang Lin , Li Siqi , Kuai Yan , Cao Zhigang , Xu Feng , Liu Yu , Zhou Kaiming , Xie Kang , Yu Benli , Raposo Ernesto P. , Gomes Anderson S. L. , Hu Zhijia
Published: May 2024

Modulation of scattering in random lasers (RLs) by magnetic fields has attracted much attention due to its rich physical insights. We fabricate magnetic gain polymer optical fiber to generate RLs. From macroscopic experimental phenomena, with the increase of the magnetic field strength, the magnetic transverse photocurrent exists in disordered multiple scattering of RLs and the emission intensity of RLs decreases, which is the experimental observation of photonic Hall effect (PHE) and photonic magnetoresistance (PMR) in RLs. At the microscopic level, based on the field dependence theory of magnetic disorder in scattered nanoparticles and the replica symmetry breaking theory, the magnetic-induced transverse diffusion of photons reduces the scattering disorder, and then decreases the intensity fluctuation disorder of RLs. Our work establishes a connection between the above two effects and RLs, visualizes the influence of magnetic field on RL scattering at the microscopic level, which is crucial for the design of RLs.
An NLR paralog Pit2 generated from tandem duplication of Pit1 fine-tunes Pit1 localization and function
Authors: Li Yuying , Wang Qiong , Jia Huimin , Ishikawa Kazuya , Kosami Ken-ichi , Ueba Takahiro , Tsujimoto Atsumi , Yamanaka Miki , Yabumoto Yasuyuki , Miki Daisuke , Sasaki Eriko , Fukao Yoichiro , Fujiwara Masayuki , Kaneko-Kawano Takako , Tan Li , Kojima Chojiro , Wing Rod A. , Sebastian Alfino , Nishimura Hideki , Fukada Fumi , Niu Qingfeng , Shimizu Motoki , Yoshida Kentaro , Terauchi Ryohei , Shimamoto Ko , Kawano Yoji
Published: May 2024

NLR family proteins act as intracellular receptors. Gene duplication amplifies the number of NLR genes, and subsequent mutations occasionally provide modifications to the second gene that benefits immunity. However, evolutionary processes after gene duplication and functional relationships between duplicated NLRs remain largely unclear. Here, we report that the rice NLR protein Pit1 is associated with its paralogue Pit2. The two are required for the resistance to rice blast fungus but have different functions: Pit1 induces cell death, while Pit2 competitively suppresses Pit1-mediated cell death. During evolution, the suppression of Pit1 by Pit2 was probably generated through positive selection on two fate-determining residues in the NB-ARC domain of Pit2, which account for functional differences between Pit1 and Pit2. Consequently, Pit2 lost its plasma membrane localization but acquired a new function to interfere with Pit1 in the cytosol. These findings illuminate the evolutionary trajectory of tandemly duplicated NLR genes after gene duplication.
Structural basis for selectivity and antagonism in extracellular GPCR-nanobodies
Authors: Schlimgen Roman R. , Peterson Francis C. , Heukers Raimond , Smit Martine J. , McCorvy John D. , Volkman Brian F.
Published: May 2024

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are pivotal therapeutic targets, but their complex structure poses challenges for effective drug design. Nanobodies, or single-domain antibodies, have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to target GPCRs, offering advantages over traditional small molecules and antibodies. However, an incomplete understanding of the structural features enabling GPCR-nanobody interactions has limited their development. In this study, we investigate VUN701, a nanobody antagonist targeting the atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3). We determine that an extended CDR3 loop is required for ACKR3 binding. Uncommon in most nanobodies, an extended CDR3 is prevalent in GPCR-targeting nanobodies. Combining experimental and computational approaches, we map an inhibitory ACKR3-VUN701 interface and define a distinct conformational mechanism for GPCR inactivation. Our results provide insights into class A GPCR-nanobody selectivity and suggest a strategy for the development of these new therapeutic tools.
Robotic wireless capsule endoscopy: recent advances and upcoming technologies
Authors: Cao Qing , Deng Runyi , Pan Yue , Liu Ruijie , Chen Yicheng , Gong Guofang , Zou Jun , Yang Huayong , Han Dong
Published: May 2024

Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) offers a non-invasive evaluation of the digestive system, eliminating the need for sedation and the risks associated with conventional endoscopic procedures. Its significance lies in diagnosing gastrointestinal tissue irregularities, especially in the small intestine. However, existing commercial WCE devices face limitations, such as the absence of autonomous lesion detection and treatment capabilities. Recent advancements in micro-electromechanical fabrication and computational methods have led to extensive research in sophisticated technology integration into commercial capsule endoscopes, intending to supersede wired endoscopes. This Review discusses the future requirements for intelligent capsule robots, providing a comparative evaluation of various methods’ merits and disadvantages, and highlighting recent developments in six technologies relevant to WCE. These include near-field wireless power transmission, magnetic field active drive, ultra-wideband/intrabody communication, hybrid localization, AI-based autonomous lesion detection, and magnetic-controlled diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, we explore the feasibility for future “capsule surgeons”.
Structural insights into the DNA topoisomerase II of the African swine fever virus
Authors: Cong Jingyuan , Xin Yuhui , Kang Huiling , Yang Yunge , Wang Chenlong , Zhao Dongming , Li Xuemei , Rao Zihe , Chen Yutao
Published: May 2024

Type II topoisomerases are ubiquitous enzymes that play a pivotal role in modulating the topological configuration of double-stranded DNA. These topoisomerases are required for DNA metabolism and have been extensively studied in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. However, our understanding of virus-encoded type II topoisomerases remains limited. One intriguing example is the African swine fever virus, which stands as the sole mammalian-infecting virus encoding a type II topoisomerase. In this work, we use several approaches including cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, and biochemical assays to investigate the structure and function of the African swine fever virus type II topoisomerase, pP1192R. We determine the structures of pP1192R in different conformational states and confirm its enzymatic activity in vitro. Collectively, our results illustrate the basic mechanisms of viral type II topoisomerases, increasing our understanding of these enzymes and presenting a potential avenue for intervention strategies to mitigate the impact of the African swine fever virus.
Neuronal tuning and population representations of shape and category in human visual cortex
Authors: Bougou Vasiliki , Vanhoyland Michaël , Bertrand Alexander , Van Paesschen Wim , Op De Beeck Hans , Janssen Peter , Theys Tom
Published: May 2024

Object recognition and categorization are essential cognitive processes which engage considerable neural resources in the human ventral visual stream. However, the tuning properties of human ventral stream neurons for object shape and category are virtually unknown. We performed large-scale recordings of spiking activity in human Lateral Occipital Complex in response to stimuli in which the shape dimension was dissociated from the category dimension. Consistent with studies in nonhuman primates, the neuronal representations were primarily shape-based, although we also observed category-like encoding for images of animals. Surprisingly, linear decoders could reliably classify stimulus category even in data sets that were entirely shape-based. In addition, many recording sites showed an interaction between shape and category tuning. These results represent a detailed study on shape and category coding at the neuronal level in the human ventral visual stream, furnishing essential evidence that reconciles human imaging and macaque single-cell studies.
Systematic assessment of ISWI subunits shows that NURF creates local accessibility for CTCF
Authors: Iurlaro Mario , Masoni Francesca , Flyamer Ilya M. , Wirbelauer Christiane , Iskar Murat , Burger Lukas , Giorgetti Luca , Schübeler Dirk
Published: May 2024

Catalytic activity of the imitation switch (ISWI) family of remodelers is critical for nucleosomal organization and DNA binding of certain transcription factors, including the insulator protein CTCF. Here we define the contribution of individual subcomplexes by deriving a panel of isogenic mouse stem cell lines, each lacking one of six ISWI accessory subunits. Individual deletions of subunits of either CERF, RSF, ACF, WICH or NoRC subcomplexes only moderately affect the chromatin landscape, while removal of the NURF-specific subunit BPTF leads to a strong reduction in chromatin accessibility and SNF2H ATPase localization around CTCF sites. This affects adjacent nucleosome occupancy and CTCF binding. At a group of sites with reduced chromatin accessibility, CTCF binding persists but cohesin occupancy is reduced, resulting in decreased insulation. These results suggest that CTCF binding can be separated from its function as an insulator in nuclear organization and identify a specific role for NURF in mediating SNF2H localization and chromatin opening at bound CTCF sites.
Research on the interaction between trench material and pipeline under fault displacement
Authors: Yang Ming , Wang Dongyuan , Jia Haidong , Hu Wenjun , Zhao Yu , Tang Jungfeng
Published: May 2024

With the large-scale construction of oil and gas pipelines, the safety issues of long-distance buried pipelines in the service and construction have become increasingly prominent. The complex geological and topographical conditions of the special zone will put forwards extremely high requirements on pipe trench laying backfill materials and construction technology. For example, pipelines are inevitable to cross the active fault, while the trench backfilled with soil has limitations in protecting them from failure under the active fault displacement caused by the earthquake. Therefore, it is necessary to study the pipe–soil interaction mechanism, determine the stress state of the pipeline and propose a new backfilling material that can protect the pipeline from failure. Foam concrete (FC) provides a new choice to backfill the buried pipeline trench due to its high-homogeneity, lightweight, controllable-strength, and self-compacting. To further determine the applicability of the FC, the pipe-FC interaction mechanism is studied. Then, a FE model of the FC-pipeline-soil interaction system is established by Abaqus to quantitatively analyze the applicability of the FC based on the experimental data of the mechanical performance of the FC. It proves that using FC as trench backfill material has a noticeable protective effect on the pipeline under the earthquake-induced displacement of the normal fault. Furthermore, FC has a better protective effect on the pipeline subjected to compressive than tensile. Therefore, the reference for applying FC in trench backfilling of pipelines crossing normal fault is provided.
Mechanisms of cordycepin in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats based on metabonomics and transcriptomics
Authors: Lin Jiangpeng , Chen Riken , Liao Huizhao , Zhang Yuzhuo , Zheng Zhenzhen , Hong Cheng
Published: May 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a fatal disease featured by high morbidity and mortality. Although Cordycepin is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-enhancing effects, its role in PAH treatment and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The therapeutic effects of Cordycepin on rats with PAH were investigated using a monocrotaline (MCT)-induced rat model. The metabolic effects of Cordycepin were assessed based on the plasma metabolome. The potential mechanisms of Cordycepin in PAH treatment were investigated through transcriptome sequencing and validated in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC). Evaluations included hematoxylin and eosin staining for pulmonary vascular remodeling, CCK-8 assay, EDU, and TUNEL kits for cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis, respectively, and western blot for protein expression. Cordycepin significantly reduced right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and right ventricular hypertrophy index (RVHI) in PAH rats, and mitigated pulmonary vascular remodeling. Plasma metabolomics showed that Cordycepin could reverse the metabolic disorders in the lungs of MCT-induced PAH rats, particularly impacting linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism pathways. Transcriptomics revealed that the P53 pathway might be the primary pathway involved, and western blot results showed that Cordycepin significantly increased P53 and P21 protein levels in lung tissues. Integrated analysis of transcriptomics and metabolomics suggested that these pathways were mainly enriched in linoleic acid metabolism and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism pathway. In vitro experiments demonstrated that Cordycepin significantly inhibited the PDGFBB (PD)-induced abnormal proliferation and migration of PASMC and promoted PD-induced apoptosis. Meanwhile, Cordycepin enhanced the expression levels of P53 and P21 proteins in PD-insulted PASMC. However, inhibitors of P53 and P21 eliminated these effects of Cordycepin. Cordycepin may activate the P53–P21 pathway to inhibit abnormal proliferation and migration of PASMC and promote apoptosis, offering a potential approach for PAH treatment.
Exploring the transcriptome of immature stages of Ornithodoros hermsi, the soft-tick vector of tick-borne relapsing fever
Authors: de Sousa-Paula Lucas C. , Berger Markus , Talyuli Octavio A. C. , Schwartz Cindi L. , Saturday Greg A. , Ribeiro José M. C. , Tirloni Lucas
Published: May 2024

Blood-feeding behavior has independently evolved in arthropods multiple times. Unlike hard ticks, soft ticks employ a rapid-feeding strategy for hematophagy, and there are comparatively limited studies on the transcriptomes of these organisms. This study investigates the soft tick Ornithodoros hermsi, conducting histopathological examinations at bitten skin sites and tick whole-body transcriptomic analyses across various developmental and feeding stages, including larvae, 1st-nymphal, and 2nd-nymphal stages. The results revealed the ability of O. hermsi to induce skin hemorrhage at the bite sites. Transcriptomic analyses identified three consistent transcriptional profiles: unfed, early-fed (6 h, 12 h, 24 h), and late-fed (5 days). The unfed profile exhibited high transcriptional activity across most of the functional classes annotated. In contrast, early-fed stages exhibited decreased expression of most functional classes, except for the unknown, which is highly expressed. Finally, transcriptional expression of most functional classes increased in the late-fed groups, resembling the baseline expression observed in the unfed groups. These findings highlight intense pre-feeding transcriptional activity in O. hermsi ticks, aligning with their rapid-feeding strategy. Moreover, besides shedding light on the temporal dynamics of key pathways during blood meal processing and tick development, this study contributes significantly to the transcriptome repertoire of a medically relevant soft tick species with relatively limited prior knowledge.
Metformin is a potential therapeutic for COVID-19/LUAD by regulating glucose metabolism
Authors: Hou Yongwang , Yang Zhicong , Xiang Baoli , Liu Jiangmin , Geng Lina , Xu Dandan , Zhan Minghua , Xu Yuhuan , Zhang Bin
Published: May 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common and aggressive subtype of lung cancer, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a serious public health threat worldwide. Patients with LUAD and COVID-19 have a poor prognosis. Therefore, finding medications that can be used to treat COVID-19/LUAD patients is essential. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify 20 possible metformin target genes for the treatment of COVID-19/LUAD. PTEN and mTOR may serve as hub target genes of metformin. Metformin may be able to cure COVID-19/LUAD comorbidity through energy metabolism, oxidoreductase NADH activity, FoxO signalling pathway, AMPK signalling system, and mTOR signalling pathway, among other pathways, according to the results of bioinformatic research. Metformin has ability to inhibit the proliferation of A549 cells, according to the results of colony formation and proliferation assays. In A549 cells, metformin increased glucose uptake and lactate generation, while decreasing ATP synthesis and the NAD+/NADH ratio. In summary, PTEN and mTOR may be potential targets of metformin for the treatment of COVID-19/LUAD. The mechanism by which metformin inhibits lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation may be related to glucose metabolism regulated by PI3K/AKT signalling and mTOR signalling pathways. Our study provides a new theoretical basis for the treatment of COVID-19/LUAD.
Selecting EEG channels and features using multi-objective optimization for accurate MCI detection: validation using leave-one-subject-out strategy
Authors: Aljalal Majid , Aldosari Saeed A. , Molinas Marta , Alturki Fahd A.
Published: May 2024

Effective management of dementia requires the timely detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This paper introduces a multi-objective optimization approach for selecting EEG channels (and features) for the purpose of detecting MCI. Firstly, each EEG signal from each channel is decomposed into subbands using either variational mode decomposition (VMD) or discrete wavelet transform (DWT). A feature is then extracted from each subband using one of the following measures: standard deviation, interquartile range, band power, Teager energy, Katz's and Higuchi's fractal dimensions, Shannon entropy, sure entropy, or threshold entropy. Different machine learning techniques are used to classify the features of MCI cases from those of healthy controls. The classifier's performance is validated using leave-one-subject-out (LOSO) cross-validation (CV). The non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA)-II is designed with the aim of minimizing the number of EEG channels (or features) and maximizing classification accuracy. The performance is evaluated using a publicly available online dataset containing EEGs from 19 channels recorded from 24 participants. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in performance when utilizing the NSGA-II algorithm. By selecting only a few appropriate EEG channels, the LOSO CV-based results show a significant improvement compared to using all 19 channels. Additionally, the outcomes indicate that accuracy can be further improved by selecting suitable features from different channels. For instance, by combining VMD and Teager energy, the SVM accuracy obtained using all channels is 74.24%. Interestingly, when only five channels are selected using NSGA-II, the accuracy increases to 91.56%. The accuracy is further improved to 95.28% when using only 8 features selected from 7 channels. This demonstrates that by choosing informative features or channels while excluding noisy or irrelevant information, the impact of noise is reduced, resulting in improved accuracy. These promising findings indicate that, with a limited number of channels and features, accurate diagnosis of MCI is achievable, which opens the door for its application in clinical practice.
External auricle temperature enhances ear-based wearable accuracy during physiological strain monitoring in the heat
Authors: Tan Shawn Chee Chong , Tran Trinh Canh Khanh , Chiang Charis Yi Ning , Pan Jieming , Low Ivan Cherh Chiet
Published: May 2024

Body core temperature (Tc) monitoring is crucial for minimizing heat injury risk. However, validated strategies are invasive and expensive. Although promising, aural canal temperature (Tac) is susceptible to environmental influences. This study investigated whether incorporation of external auricle temperature (Tea) into an ear-based Tc algorithm enhances its accuracy during multiple heat stress conditions. Twenty males (mean ± SD; age = 25 ± 3 years, BMI = 21.7 ± 1.8, body fat = 12 ± 3%, maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) = 64 ± 7 ml/kg/min) donned an ear-based wearable and performed a passive heating (PAH), running (RUN) and brisk walking trial (WALK). PAH comprised of immersion in hot water (42.0 ± 0.3 °C). RUN (70 ± 3%VO2max) and WALK (50 ± 10%VO2max) were conducted in an environmental chamber (Tdb = 30.0 ± 0.2 °C, RH = 71 ± 2%). Several Tc models, developed using Tac, Tea and heart rate, were validated against gastrointestinal temperature. Inclusion of Tea as a model input improved the accuracy of the ear-based Tc algorithm. Our best performing model (Trf3) displayed good group prediction errors (mean bias error = − 0.02 ± 0.26 °C) but exhibited individual prediction errors (percentage target attainment ± 0.40 °C = 88%) that marginally exceeded our validity criterion. Therefore, Trf3 demonstrates potential utility for group-based Tc monitoring, with additional refinement needed to extend its applicability to personalized heat strain monitoring.
Transgenic female mice producing trans 10, cis 12-conjugated linoleic acid present excessive prostaglandin E2, adrenaline, corticosterone, glucagon, and FGF21
Authors: Rao Yu , Liang Lu-Wen , Li Mei-Juan , Wang Yang-Yang , Wang Bao-Zhu , Gou Ke-Mian
Published: May 2024

Dietary trans 10, cis 12-conjugated linoleic acid (t10c12-CLA) is a potential candidate in anti-obesity trials. A transgenic mouse was previously successfully established to determine the anti-obesity properties of t10c12-CLA in male mice that could produce endogenous t10c12-CLA. To test whether there is a different impact of t10c12-CLA on lipid metabolism in both sexes, this study investigated the adiposity and metabolic profiles of female Pai mice that exhibited a dose-dependent expression of foreign Pai gene and a shift of t10c12-CLA content in tested tissues. Compared to their gender-match wild-type littermates, Pai mice had no fat reduction but exhibited enhanced lipolysis and thermogenesis by phosphorylated hormone-sensitive lipase and up-regulating uncoupling proteins in brown adipose tissue. Simultaneously, Pai mice showed hepatic steatosis and hypertriglyceridemia by decreasing gene expression involved in lipid and glucose metabolism. Further investigations revealed that t10c10-CLA induced excessive prostaglandin E2, adrenaline, corticosterone, glucagon and inflammatory factors in a dose-dependent manner, resulting in less heat release and oxygen consumption in Pai mice. Moreover, fibroblast growth factor 21 overproduction only in monoallelic Pai/wt mice indicates that it was sensitive to low doses of t10c12-CLA. These results suggest that chronic t10c12-CLA has system-wide effects on female health via synergistic actions of various hormones.
Proteomic analysis of sperm from fertile stallions and subfertile stallions due to impaired acrosomal exocytosis
Authors: Hernández-Avilés Camilo , Ramírez-Agámez Luisa , Weintraub Susan T. , Scoggin Charles F. , Davis Brian W. , Raudsepp Terje , Varner Dickson D. , Love Charles C.
Published: May 2024

Thoroughbred stallions that carry a double-homozygous genotype A/A-A/A for SNPs rs397316122 and rs69101140 in exon 5 of the FKBP6 gene (chr13; EquCab3.0) are uniquely subfertile due to impaired acrosomal exocytosis (IAE). In this study, the sperm proteome in frozen/thawed semen from subfertile Thoroughbred stallions was studied and compared to that of frozen/thawed sperm from fertile Thoroughbred stallions. A total of 2,220 proteins was identified, of which 140 proteins were found to be differentially abundant in sperm from the subfertile stallions compared to that of fertile stallions (83 less and 57 more abundant). Proteins of differential abundance in sperm from the subfertile stallions were mainly overrepresented in the “metabolism” and the “metabolism of lipids” pathways. One of these proteins, arylsulfatase F (ARSF), was studied by immunofluorescence. A lower proportion of sperm displaying ARSF signal at the acrosome region was observed in sperm from subfertile Thoroughbred stallions. In addition, heterologous zona pellucida binding assays revealed that sperm from subfertile Thoroughbred stallions bound at a lower proportion to zonae pellucidae than sperm from fertile Thoroughbred stallions. In conclusion, a group of differential abundance proteins, including some of acrosome origin, were identified in sperm from subfertile stallions with acrosome dysfunction.
Proton-assisted activation of a MnIII–OOH for aromatic C–H hydroxylation through a putative [MnVO] species
Authors: Gupta Sikha , Sharma Parkhi , Jain Khyati , Chandra Bittu , Mallojjala Sharath Chandra , Draksharapu Apparao
Published: May 2024

Adding HClO4 to [(BnTPEN)MnIII–OO]+ in MeOH generates a short-lived MnIII–OOH species, which converts to a putative MnVO species. The potent MnV=O species in MeCN oxidizes the pendant phenyl ring of the ligand in an intramolecular fashion.
A thermosensitive luminescence halloysite-based nanocomposite enabling encryptable thermal printing
Authors: Jia Pengying , Lu Yelong , Yang Yuqing , Zhu Xiaoyan , Zhang Hailei , Wu Yonggang
Published: May 2024

In situ formation of carbon dots on halloysite nanotubes is demonstrated by treating polyacrylamide-grafted halloysite nanotubes with polycarboxylic acid without the recourse to extremely high temperatures or solvents.
Switchable synthesis of 3-aminoindolines and 2′-aminoarylacetic acids using Grignard reagents and 3-azido-2-hydroxyindolines
Authors: Yamashiro Toshiki , Abe Takumi
Published: May 2024

Unprecedented switchable synthesis of 3-aminoindolines and 2'-aminoarylacetic acids using Grignard reagents and 3-azido-2-hydroxyindolines has been achieved only by changing the reaction conditions.
Crystallographic and spectroscopic studies on persistent triarylpropargyl cations
Authors: Shimajiri Takuya , Tsue Taiga , Koakutsu Shumpei , Ishigaki Yusuke , Suzuki Takanori
Published: May 2024

By acid treatment of precursor alcohols, mesitylethynyl-substituted diarylmethyl cations were isolated as stable solids, X-ray structural analyses of which revealed a planar geometry.
Modulation of copper sites in porphyrin metal–organic frameworks for electrochemical ascorbic acid sensing
Authors: Dai Jiawei , Zhong Yanyu , Zhu Jiannan , Liu Xiaoling , Zhang Tiansui , Zhu Deyu , Li Guangfang , Wang Zhengyun , Liu Hongfang
Published: May 2024

This work realizes the regulation of the electrochemical ascorbic acid sensing performances of Cu porphyrin MOFs by modulation of the Cu-coordination structures through 4,4-bipyridine connection.
Divergent synthesis of pyrrolizine derivatives through C–H bond functionalization of pyrroles
Authors: Wang Manqing , Xu Yuanshuang , Hou Huihang , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: May 2024

Presented herein is the synthesis of diversely functionalized pyrrolizines from the reaction of N-alkoxycarbamoyl pyrroles with CF3-ynones.
Photon upconversion of Nd3+–Yb3+–Tb3+ doped core–shell–shell–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Xun Wenfei , Meng Zhipeng , Xie Chuwei , Wu Suli
Published: May 2024

The NaYF4:Yb migration layer minimized the cross-relaxation. Excited energy absorbed by Nd3+ could sensitize the co-doped Yb3+ and activated Tb3+ though energy migration among Yb3+, thereby achieving luminescence of Tb3+.
Trajectory-dependent threshold effects of proton stopping power in LiF nanosheets
Authors: Sun Ya-Ting , Wang Feng , Gao Cong-Zhang
Published: May 2024

Our studies showed that the inner electron excitation contributes significantly to the trajectory-dependent threshold effects of proton stopping power in LiF nanosheets.
Theoretical and kinetic study of the H-atom abstraction reactions by Ḣ atom from alkyl cyclohexanes
Authors: Ma Yang , Fu Zhaolin , Guo Hao-Ting , Liu Mingxia , Tao Zhiping , Zhou Chong-Wen
Published: May 2024

Rate constants calculations for hydrogen atom abstraction from methyl cyclohexane, ethyl cyclohexane, n-propyl cyclohexane, iso-propyl cyclohexane, sec-butyl cyclohexane and iso-butyl cyclohexane by the Ḣ atom.
Hematin supported on Colour Catcher®: a biodegradable heterogeneous catalyst for halogen-free CO2 cycloadditions
Authors: Damiano Caterina , Fata Alessia , Cavalleri Matteo , Manca Gabriele , Gallo Emma
Published: May 2024

A Colour Catcher® sheet was employed as a solid support for immobilizing biologically derived porphyrin species. The resulted cheap, user-friendly and recyclable material was efficient in catalyzing the CO2 cycloaddition to three-membered rings.
Synchronously enhancing thermal conductivity and dielectric properties in epoxy composites via incorporation of functionalized boron nitride
Authors: Lim Taeyoon , Yoo Jeseung , Park Hyuk , Ansar Sabah , Rabani Iqra , Seo Young-Soo
Published: May 2024

Polymer-like dielectrics with superb thermal conductivity as well as high dielectric properties hold great promise for the modern electronic field.
A combined theoretical and experimental approach to determine the right choice of co-ligand to impart spin crossover in Fe(ii) complexes based on 1,3,4-oxadiazole ligands
Authors: Sundaresan Sriram , Eppelsheimer Julian , Gera Esha , Wiener Lukas , Carrella Luca M. , Vignesh Kuduva R. , Rentschler Eva
Published: May 2024

It is discussed why for the Fe(ii) complexes [Fe(LTetra-Py/Ph-ODA)(NCE)] with E = S, Se and BH3 only the latter revealed SCO.
Integration of generative machine learning with the heuristic crystal structure prediction code FUSE
Authors: Collins Christopher M. , Sayeed Hasan M. , Darling George R. , Claridge John B. , Sparks Taylor D. , Rosseinsky Matthew J.
Published: May 2024

We integrate generative machine learning with heuristic crystal structure prediction in FUSE. The combined result shows superior performance over both components, accelerating the pace at which we will be able to predict and discover new compounds.
Decatungstate-photocatalyzed direct acylation of N-heterocycles with aldehydes
Authors: Zhang Zhiyang , Cheng Fukun , Ma Xinyu , Sun Kai , Huang Xianqiang , An Jiangzhen , Peng Mei , Chen Xiaolan , Yu Bing
Published: May 2024

A novel photocatalytic acylation strategy was developed harnessing tetrabutylammonium decatungstate (TBADT) as a hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) photocatalyst to facilitate the direct coupling of aldehydes with N-heterocycles at ambient temperature.
An air/metal hydride battery for simultaneous neutralization treatment of acid–base wastewater and power generation
Authors: Ye Kangqiang , Du Yu'an , Yang Yuxin , Chen Rong , Deng Chao , Weng Guo-Ming
Published: May 2024

Here, we propose and demonstrate an air/metal hydride battery with the function of both treating acid–base wastewaters and gathering the waste heat energy in the form of electricity.
Eggshell membrane-derived metal sulfide catalysts for seawater splitting
Authors: Cui Lingyu , Zhang Lan , Shen Yi
Published: May 2024

A biowaste, i.e., eggshell membranes, was utilized as a versatile platform to fabricate OER electrocatalysts for seawater electrolysis.
Modulating the electronic structure of ultra-thin NiCo-LDH by FeNiCoS4 for efficient electrocatalytic urea oxidation
Authors: Yan Hongda , Guo Shuhan , Yang Xinyu , Liu Yifeng , Wang Zhe , Chen Qianqiao
Published: May 2024

NiCo-LDH encapsulated FeNiCo trimetallic spinel sulfide (FeNiCoS4) was designed as a high-efficiency catalyst for the urea oxidation reaction.
Macrophage-red blood cell hybrid membrane-coated ultrasound-responsive microbowls to eliminate pathogens, endotoxins, and heavy metal ions from blood
Authors: Jing Jianxing , Lv Mingchen , Hu Wei , Teng Runxin , Ge Zhenghong , Wu Peng , Zhang Yao , Sun Min , Fan Zhen
Published: May 2024

An ultrasound-driven asymmetric microbowl coated with hybrid cell membranes was developed to eliminate pathogens, toxins and heavy metal ions from the bloodstream through sonication for sepsis treatment.
Halogenated non-innocent vanadium(v) Schiff base complexes: chemical and anti-proliferative properties
Authors: Haase Allison A. , Markham Skyler A. , Murakami Heide A. , Hagan John , Kostenkova Kateryna , Koehn Jordan T. , Uslan Canan , Beuning Cheryle N. , Brandenburg Lee , Zadrozny Joseph M. , Levina Aviva , Lay Peter A. , Crans Debbie C.
Published: May 2024

Halogenated non-innocent vanadium(v) Schiff base mono-substituted catecholates have a low stability and anti-proliferative properties similar to vanadate. A linear correlation between complex redox potential and the catechol pKa was observed.
An efficient, step-economical synthesis of β-carboline tethered imidazopyrido[3,4-b]indoles from acetals
Authors: Vaishali  , Banyal Naveen , Sharma Shubham , Singh Manpreet , Malakar Chandi C. , Singh Virender
Published: May 2024

An efficient one-pot pseudo three component cascade annulation reaction has been devised to generate the fluorescent β-carboline tethered imidazopyrido[3,4-b]indole derivatives.
High surface area of carbonaceous Cr2GaC composite microspheres synthesized by sol–gel chemistry
Authors: Sinclair Jordan , Siebert Jan P. , Flores Matt , Ciota David , Seo Dong-Kyun , Birkel Christina S.
Published: May 2024

Carbonaceous Cr2GaC microspheres are synthesized by means of sol–gel chemistry and exhibit high BET surface area after pyrolysis.
Correction: An electrodeposited superaerophobic nickel catalyst on pencil-drawn paper: a novel approach for highly efficient and stable hydrogen evolution
Authors: Sun Qian , Hao Xiaoyu , Zhang Tianyi , Ma Zelin , Hu Kui , Yang Ming , Huang Xiaolei , Liu Xuqing
Published: May 2024

Correction for ‘An electrodeposited superaerophobic nickel catalyst on pencil-drawn paper: a novel approach for highly efficient and stable hydrogen evolution’ by Qian Sun et al., Inorg. Chem. Front., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4QI00101J.
Gas sensing properties of hematite nanoparticles synthesized via different techniques
Authors: Hjiri Mokhtar , Algessair Saja , Dhahri Ramzi , Mirzaei Ali , Neri Giovanni
Published: May 2024

The synthesis techniques used for metal oxide semiconductors strongly influence their chemical, physical and gas sensing characteristics.
Correction: Conducting polymers: a comprehensive review on recent advances in synthesis, properties and applications
Authors: K Namsheer , Rout Chandra Sekhar
Published: May 2024

Correction for ‘Conducting polymers: a comprehensive review on recent advances in synthesis, properties and applications’ by Namsheer K et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 5659–5697, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0RA07800J.
Substituted quinoxaline based small-molecule donor guests enable 19% efficiency ternary organic solar cells
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Lin Min , Wei Yulin , Xu Ruida , Zhang Zhiyuan , Sun Xiaokang , Wang Han , Hu Hanlin , Wang Kai
Published: May 2024

Two novel guest molecules were designed and incorporated into the PM6:L8-BO system, which could enhance the crystallinity and optimize vertical phase distribution. Ternary OSCs achieved a remarkable PCE of 19.04% with enhanced stability.
Polyethyleneimine-mediated assembly of DNA nanotubes for KRAS siRNA delivery in lung adenocarcinoma therapy
Authors: Bai Jia-Hao , Yu Qing-Tao , Wang Yi-Wu , Chen Chun-Fa , Ma Lian-Ju , Yuan Yue , Gan Yong-Jun , Yang Jia-Qi , Zhu Shu , Ran Yu-Hang , Zhang Li-Lei , Qian Hang , Zhao Zheng-Huan , Liu Qian
Published: May 2024

Polyethyleneimine facilitated the self-assembly of DNA nanotubes to enhance the delivery of KRAS siRNA for combating lung adenocarcinoma.
An in situ study on the depth-resolved chemical states of undoped SrTiO3(001) surfaces during Ar+ sputtering and annealing processes with XPS
Authors: Kim Dongwoo , Lim Hojoon , Seo Minsik , Shin Hyunsuk , Kim Kyungmin , Jang Subin , Kim Ki-jeong , Kim Jeongjin , Mun Bongjin Simon
Published: May 2024

During Ar+ sputtering and UHV annealing processes on undoped SrTiO3(001) surfaces, the interactions between SrO and impurity ions can be witnessed from their Sr 3d spectra.
A novel bulk (Nb,Zr,Pt)67Ti33 high-entropy alloy superconductor: synthesis and structure–property relationship
Authors: Srivastava Nitin , Santra Sangeeta
Published: May 2024

We report a novel multi-phase (Nb,Zr,Pt)67Ti33 high-entropy alloy superconductor with a focus on understanding the relationship between its functional properties and microstructure.
Correction: Electromagnetic interference shielding materials: recent progress, structure design, and future perspective
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yun , Liao Si-Yuan , Wan Yan-Jun , Zhu Peng-Li , Hu You-Gen , Zhao Tao , Sun Rong , Wong Ching-Ping
Published: May 2024

Correction for ‘Electromagnetic interference shielding materials: recent progress, structure design, and future perspective’ by Xiao-Yun Wang et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2022, 10, 44–72, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC04702G.
Atox1-cyclin D1 loop activity is critical for survival of tumor cells with inactivated TP53
Authors: Kuchur Oleg A. , Pogodaeva Sofya S. , Shcherbakova Anna V. , Tsymbal Segrey A.
Published: May 2024

The search for relevant molecular targets is one of the main tasks of modern tumor chemotherapy. To successfully achieve this, it is necessary to have the most complete understanding of the functioning of a transcriptional apparatus of the cell, particularly related to proliferation. The p53 protein plays an important role in regulating processes such as apoptosis, repair, and cell division, and the loss of its functionality often accompanies various types of tumors and contributes to the development of chemoresistance. Additionally, the proliferative activity of tumor cells is closely related to the metabolism of transition metals. For example, the metallochaperone Atox1 – a copper transporter protein – acts as a transcription activator for cyclin D1, promoting progression through the G1/S phase of the cell cycle. On the other hand, p53 suppresses cyclin D1 at the transcriptional level, thereby these proteins have divergent effects on cell cycle progression. However, the contribution of the interaction between these proteins to cell survival is poorly understood. This work demonstrates that not only exists a positive feedback loop between Atox1 and cyclin D1 but also that the activity of this loop depends on the status of the TP53 gene. Upon inactivation of TP53 in A549 and HepG2 cell lines, the expression of ATOX1 and CCND1 genes is enhanced, and their suppression in these cells leads to pronounced apoptosis. This fundamental observation may be useful in selecting more precise interventions for combined therapy of p53-negative tumors.
Insights into the regulation of malate dehydrogenase: inhibitors, activators, and allosteric modulation by small molecules
Authors: Martinez-Vaz Betsy M. , Howard Alicia L. , Jamburuthugoda Varuni K. , Callahan Kevin P.
Published: May 2024

Cellular metabolism comprises a complex network of biochemical anabolic and catabolic processes that fuel the growth and survival of living organisms. The enzyme malate dehydrogenase (MDH) is most known for its role in oxidizing malate to oxaloacetate (OAA) in the last step of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, but it also participates in the malate-aspartate shuttle in the mitochondria as well as the glyoxylate cycle in plants. These pathways and the specific reactions within them are dynamic and must be carefully calibrated to ensure a balance between nutrient/energy supply and demand. MDH structural and functional complexity requires a variety of regulatory mechanisms, including allosteric regulation, feedback, and competitive inhibition, which are often dependent on whether the enzyme is catalyzing its forward or reverse reaction. Given the role of MDH in central metabolism and its potential as a target for therapeutics in both cancer and infectious diseases, there is a need to better understand its regulation. The involvement of MDH in multiple pathways makes it challenging to identify which effectors are critical to its activity. Many of the in vitro experiments examining MDH regulation were done decades ago, and though allosteric sites have been proposed, none to date have been specifically mapped. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge surrounding MDH regulation by its substrate, products, and other intermediates of the TCA cycle while highlighting all the gaps in our understanding of its regulatory mechanisms.