bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical study of diffusive fish farm system under time noise
Authors: Yasin Muhammad Waqas , Ahmed Nauman , Saeed Jawaria , Baber Muhammad Zafarullah , Ali Syed Mansoor , Akgül Ali , Muhammad Shah , Hassani Murad Khan , Ali Mubasher
Published: June 2024

In the current study, the fish farm model perturbed with time white noise is numerically examined. This model contains fish and mussel populations with external food supplied. The main aim of this work is to develop time-efficient numerical schemes for such models that preserve the dynamical properties. The stochastic backward Euler (SBE) and stochastic Implicit finite difference (SIFD) schemes are designed for the computational results. In the mean square sense, both schemes are consistent with the underlying model and schemes are von Neumann stable. The underlying model has various equilibria points and all these points are successfully gained by the SIFD scheme. The SIFD scheme showed positive and convergent behavior for the given values of the parameter. As the underlying model is a population model and its solution can attain minimum value zero, so a solution that can attain value less than zero is not biologically possible. So, the numerical solution obtained by the stochastic backward Euler is negative and divergent solution and it is not a biological phenomenon that is useless in such dynamical systems. The graphical behaviors of the system show that external nutrient supply is the important factor that controls the dynamics of the given model. The three-dimensional results are drawn for the various choices of the parameters.
Quantifying the abundance and survival rates of island-associated spinner dolphins using a multi-state open robust design model
Authors: McPherson Liah , Badger Janelle , Fertitta Kyleigh , Gordanier Madison , Nemeth Cameron , Bejder Lars
Published: June 2024

Spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris subsp.) occupy the nearshore waters of several Hawaiian Islands. Due to their constrained behavioral pattern and genetic isolation, they are vulnerable to anthropogenic threats. Their occurrence and behavior are well-described, yet a lack of data on their abundance and survival rates hinders optimal conservation action. Using design-based photo-identification surveys, this study estimated the abundance, apparent survival, and emigration of spinner dolphins off the Waiʻanae Coast of Oʻahu through multi-state open robust design (MSORD) and POPAN modelling. Eight seasonal field seasons, (two winter, spring, summer, and autumn) each comprised of six surveys of the study area, were completed during two consecutive years. Seasonal abundance estimates derived from the best fitting model ranged from 140 (± 36.8 SE, 95% CI 84–232) to 373 (± 60.0, 95% CI 273–509) individuals and were lowest during winter seasons. The MSORD estimated a survival rate of 0.95 (± 0.02 SE) and a Markovian pattern of temporary emigration. POPAN modelling estimated a super-population size of 633 (± 78 SE, 95% CI 492–798), reflecting the total number of individual dolphins that used the study area during the entire study period. Additional research on circum- and inter-island dolphin movements around and between Oʻahu and the Maui Nui region may shed light on both seasonal movement patterns and overall abundance for the Oʻahu/4-Islands stock. This work represents the first systematic mark-recapture effort to assess the abundance and survival rates of these highly exposed dolphins, providing valuable insights for conservation and management.
A meta-analysis comparing the performance of narrowband CE-Chirp and 500 Hz tone burst stimuli in recording cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP)
Authors: Zakaria Mohd Normani , Abdallatif Athar Mazen Rasmi , Wan Mohamad Wan Najibah , Rashid Mohd Fadzil Nor , Patuzzi Robert , Abdullah Baharudin , Salim Rosdan , Omar Marniza
Published: June 2024

Due to contradictory outcomes in the literature, the aim of this meta-analysis is to verify whether the narrowband (NB) CE-Chirp stimulus (centred at 500 Hz) would produce more robust cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) responses relative to the conventional 500 Hz tone burst. The literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and the terms used were “vestibular evoked myogenic potential” and “chirp”. The cVEMP parameters to be analysed were P1 latency, N1 latency, and P1–N1 amplitude. A total of 59 potential articles were obtained from the database search. Eventually, five articles were found to be eligible for the meta-analysis (with n = 222). As found, P1 and N1 latencies of cVEMP were significantly shorter for the chirp stimulus (p < 0.001), with substantially large effect sizes. On the other hand, P1–N1 amplitude values were found to be not statistically different between the two stimuli (p = 0.189), with a small effect size. It appears that there is no indication to support the superiority of the NB CE-Chirp stimulus (centred at 500 Hz) in the cVEMP testing (relative to the conventional 500 Hz tone burst). In particular, both stimuli produce comparable P1–N1 amplitude values. Even though P1 and N1 latencies are statistically shorter for the chirp stimulus, this may not reflect that it should be the preferred stimulus for recording cVEMP responses (and the reasons for this are discussed accordingly).
NMR-based metabolomics identification of potential serum biomarkers of disease progression in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Alwahsh Mohammad , Nimer Refat M. , Dahabiyeh Lina A. , Hamadneh Lama , Hasan Aya , Alejel Rahaf , Hergenröder Roland
Published: June 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder, characterized by neuroinflammation and demyelination within the central nervous system (CNS). The etiology and the pathogenesis of MS are still unknown. Till now, no satisfactory treatments, diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are available for MS. Therefore, we aimed to investigate metabolic alterations in patients with MS compared to controls and across MS subtypes. Metabolic profiles of serum samples from patients with MS (n = 90) and healthy control (n = 30) were determined by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H-NMR) Spectroscopy using cryogenic probe. This approach was also utilized to identify significant differences between the metabolite profiles of the MS groups (primary progressive, secondary progressive, and relapsing–remitting) and the healthy controls. Concentrations of nine serum metabolites (adenosine triphosphate (ATP), tryptophan, formate, succinate, glutathione, inosine, histidine, pantothenate, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)) were significantly higher in patients with MS compared to control. SPMS serum exhibited increased pantothenate and tryptophan than in PPMS. In addition, lysine, myo-inositol, and glutamate exhibited the highest discriminatory power (0.93, 95% CI 0.869–0.981; 0.92, 95% CI 0.859–0.969; 0.91, 95% CI 0.843–0.968 respectively) between healthy control and MS. Using NMR- based metabolomics, we identified a set of metabolites capable of classifying MS patients and controls. These findings confirmed untargeted metabolomics as a useful approach for the discovery of possible novel biomarkers that could aid in the diagnosis of the disease.
Towards a better understanding of idiopathic epilepsy through metabolic fingerprinting of cerebrospinal fluid in dogs
Authors: Verdoodt Fien , Bhatti Sofie F. M. , Kragic Karla , Van Ham Luc , Vanhaecke Lynn , Hesta Myriam , Hemeryck Lieselot Y.
Published: June 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid metabolomics is a promising research technology in the elucidation of nervous system disorders. Therefore, in this work, a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metabolomics method using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry was optimized and validated to cover a wide range of metabolites. An acceptable coefficient of variance regarding instrumental, within-lab and intra-assay precision was found for 95, 70 and 96 of 102 targeted metabolites, together with 1256, 676 and 976 untargeted compounds, respectively. Moreover, approximately 75% of targeted metabolites and 50% of untargeted compounds displayed good linearity across different dilution ranges. Consequently, metabolic alterations in CSF of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE) were studied by comparing CSF of dogs diagnosed with IE (Tier II) to dogs with non-brain related disease. Targeted metabolome analysis revealed higher levels of cortisol, creatinine, glucose, hippuric acid, mannose, pantothenol, and 2-phenylethylamine (P values < 0.05) in CSF of dogs with IE, whereas CSF of dogs with IE showed lower levels of spermidine (P value = 0.02). Untargeted CSF metabolic fingerprints discriminated dogs with IE from dogs with non-brain related disease using Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (R2(Y) = 0.997, Q2(Y) = 0.828), from which norepinephrine was putatively identified as an important discriminative metabolite.
Fluorescence excitation-scanning hyperspectral imaging with scalable 2D–3D deep learning framework for colorectal cancer detection
Authors: Oswald Willaim , Browning Craig , Yasmin Ruthba , Deal Joshua , Rich Thomas C. , Leavesley Silas J. , Gong Na
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer is one of the top contributors to cancer-related deaths in the United States, with over 100,000 estimated cases in 2020 and over 50,000 deaths. The most common screening technique is minimally invasive colonoscopy using either reflected white light endoscopy or narrow-band imaging. However, current imaging modalities have only moderate sensitivity and specificity for lesion detection. We have developed a novel fluorescence excitation-scanning hyperspectral imaging (HSI) approach to sample image and spectroscopic data simultaneously on microscope and endoscope platforms for enhanced diagnostic potential. Unfortunately, fluorescence excitation-scanning HSI datasets pose major challenges for data processing, interpretability, and classification due to their high dimensionality. Here, we present an end-to-end scalable Artificial Intelligence (AI) framework built for classification of excitation-scanning HSI microscopy data that provides accurate image classification and interpretability of the AI decision-making process. The developed AI framework is able to perform real-time HSI classification with different speed/classification performance trade-offs by tailoring the dimensionality of the dataset, supporting different dimensions of deep learning models, and varying the architecture of deep learning models. We have also incorporated tools to visualize the exact location of the lesion detected by the AI decision-making process and to provide heatmap-based pixel-by-pixel interpretability. In addition, our deep learning framework provides wavelength-dependent impact as a heatmap, which allows visualization of the contributions of HSI wavelength bands during the AI decision-making process. This framework is well-suited for HSI microscope and endoscope platforms, where real-time analysis and visualization of classification results are required by clinicians.
Mitigating sub-synchronous oscillation using intelligent damping control of DFIG based on improved TD3 algorithm with knowledge fusion
Authors: Liu Ge , Liu Jun , Liu Andong
Published: June 2024

The occurrence of sub-synchronous oscillation (SSO) phenomenon in doubly-fed induction generators (DFIGs)-based wind turbines threatens the secure and stable operation of the power grid. Conventional sub-synchronous damping controllers encounter challenges in adapting to the dynamic operating conditions of power systems. This paper introduces an Intelligent Sub-Synchronous Damping Controller (I-SSDC) for DFIGs that integrates deep reinforcement learning (DRL) and knowledge to address the limitations of conventional methods for SSO mitigation. The initial step involves formulating a framework for I-SSDC using the improved twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) algorithm incorporating Softmax. Following this, a surrogate model is constructed, employing Weighted Linear Regression and regularization. This model is designed to identify the predominant influencing factors of SSO, focusing on the selection of the output signal (installation position) to optimize decision-making in I-SSDC. The objective is to enhance the controller’s environmental adaptability and interpretability. Moreover, knowledge and experience related to SSOs are integrated into agent training to improve the exploration efficiency of the agent. Case studies under various operating conditions of the test power system validate the efficacy of the proposed I-SSDC in suppressing SSOs.
Sperm handling and management in the teleost model fish Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Authors: Sayyari Amin , Krogenæs Anette Kristine , Mayer Ian , Labbé Catherine
Published: June 2024

Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) has been used as a model organism in different research fields, including reproductive physiology. Sperm motility is the most important marker for male fertility in fish and, thus, reproduction success. However, because of small volume of ejaculate and short motility duration, it is still challenging to manage the sperm collection and analysis in small model fish. In the present study, we aimed to investigate sperm motility and to optimize sperm collection, short-term sperm storage, and cryopreservation in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes). Using two different approaches for sperm collection: testes dissection and abdominal massage, different housing conditions and activating the sperm with different activation solutions, we investigated immediate sperm motility. In the second part of this study, we used different osmolalities of immobilization solution, Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) for sperm storage at 0, 2 and 3 h after sperm collection. Finally, the sperm were cryopreserved using methanol as cryoprotectant and HBSS as extender at two different osmolalities, and post-thaw sperm motility was investigated. The highest post-activating sperm motility was achieved in the groups activated by the extender at 300 mOsm/kg. The quality of sperm remained unaffected by co-housing with females or with males only. Furthermore, Hanks’ Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) with an osmolality of 600 mOsm/kg demonstrated its efficacy as a suitable extender for sperm storage, preserving motility and progressivity for 3 h. The highest post-thaw motility was around 35%. There were no significant differences between post-thaw motility in different groups. We also found that post-thaw incubation on ice can maintain the motility of the sperm for up to one hour after thawing.
An analytical characterization study on biofuel obtained from pyrolysis of Madhuca longifolia residues
Authors: Thiru S. , Kola Ramesh , Thimmaraju Manish Kumar , Dhanalakshmi C. Sowmya , Sharma Vipin , Sakthi P. , Maguluri Lakshmana Phaneendra , Ranganathan L. , Lalvani J. Isaac JoshuaRamesh
Published: June 2024

The current study focuses on examining the characteristics of biofuel obtained from the pyrolysis of Madhuca longifolia residues, since the selected forest residue was primarily motivated by its greater volatile matter content. The study used several analytical techniques to describe pyrolysis oil, char, and gas obtained from slow pyrolysis process conducted between 350 and 600 °C in a fixed-bed reactor. Initially, the effect of process temperature on product distribution was assessed to motivate maximum pyrolysis oil yield and found to be 44.2 wt% at pyrolysis temperature of 475 °C, while the yields of char and gas were 22.1 wt% and 33.7 wt%, respectively. In order to determine the suitability of the feedstock, the Madhuca longifolia residues were analyzed by TGA and FT-IR, which revealed that the feedstock could be a feasible option as an energy source. The characterization of pyrolysis oil, char, and gas has been done through various analytical methods like FT-IR, GC-MS, and gas chromatography. The physicochemical characteristics of the pyrolysis oil sample were examined, and the results showed that the oil is a viscous liquid with a lower heating value than conventional diesel. The FT-IR and GC-MS analysis of pyrolysis oil revealed the presence of increased levels of oxygenated chemicals, acids, and phenol derivatives. The findings of the FT-IR analysis of char indicated the existence of aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons. The increased carbon content in the char indicated the possibility of using solid fuel. Gas chromatography was used to examine the chemical structure of the pyrolysis gas, and the results showed the existence of combustible elements.
Elicitors directed in vitro growth and production of stevioside and other secondary metabolites in Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni
Authors: Ghazal Bushra , Fareed Amna , Ahmad Nisar , Azra  , Salmen Saleh H. , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Zeng Yawen , Farid Abid , Jenks Matthew A. , Qayyum Abdul
Published: June 2024

Stevia rebaudiana (stevia) is a plant in the Asteraceae that contains several biologically active compounds including the antidiabetic diterpene glycosides (e.g. stevioside, rebaudioside and dulcoside) that can serve as zero-calorie sugar alternatives. In this study, an elicitation strategy was applied using 5% polyethylene glycol (PEG), sodium chloride (NaCl; 50 and 100 mM) and gibberellic acid (2.0 and 4.0 mg/L GA3) to investigate their effect on shoot morphogenesis, and the production of phenolics, flavonoids, total soluble sugars, proline and stevioside, as well as antioxidant activity, in shoot cultures of S. rebaudiana. Herewith, the media supplemented with 2 mg/L and 4 mg/L GA3 exhibited the highest shooting response (87% and 80%). The augmentation of lower concentrations of GA3 (2 mg/L) in combination with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) resulted in the maximum mean shoot length (11.1 cm). The addition of 100 mM NaCl salts to the media led to the highest observed total phenolics content (TPC; 4.11 mg/g-DW compared to the control 0.52 mg/g-DW), total flavonoids content (TFC; 1.26 mg/g-DW) and polyphenolics concentration (5.39 mg/g-DW) in shoots cultured. However, the maximum antioxidant activity (81.8%) was observed in shoots raised in media treated with 50 mM NaCl. The application of 2 mg/L of GA3 resulted in the highest accumulation of proline (0.99 μg/mL) as compared to controls (0.37 μg/mL). Maximum stevioside content (71 µL/mL) was observed in cultures supplemented with 100 mM NaCl and 5% PEG, followed by the 4 mg/L GA3 treatment (70 µL/mL) as compared to control (60 µL/mL). Positive correlation was observed between GA3 and stevioside content. Notably, these two compounds are derived from a shared biochemical pathway. These results suggest that elicitation is an effective option to enhance the accumulation of steviosides and other metabolites and provides the groundwork for future industrial scale production using bioreactors.
Genome-wide association study identifies host genetic variants influencing oral microbiota diversity and metabolic health
Authors: Stankevic Evelina , Kern Timo , Borisevich Dmitrii , Poulsen Casper Sahl , Madsen Anne Lundager , Hansen Tue Haldor , Jonsson Anna , Schubert Mikkel , Nygaard Nikoline , Nielsen Trine , Belstrøm Daniel , Ahluwalia Tarunveer S. , Witte Daniel R. , Grarup Niels , Arumugam Manimozhiyan , Pedersen Oluf , Hansen Torben
Published: June 2024

The microbial communities of the oral cavity are important elements of oral and systemic health. With emerging evidence highlighting the heritability of oral bacterial microbiota, this study aimed to identify host genome variants that influence oral microbial traits. Using data from 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we performed genome-wide association studies with univariate and multivariate traits of the salivary microbiota from 610 unrelated adults from the Danish ADDITION-PRO cohort. We identified six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in human genomes that showed associations with abundance of bacterial taxa at different taxonomical tiers (P < 5 × 10–8). Notably, SNP rs17793860 surpassed our study-wide significance threshold (P < 1.19 × 10–9). Additionally, rs4530093 was linked to bacterial beta diversity (P < 5 × 10–8). Out of these seven SNPs identified, six exerted effects on metabolic traits, including glycated hemoglobin A1c, triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, the risk of type 2 diabetes and stroke. Our findings highlight the impact of specific host SNPs on the composition and diversity of the oral bacterial community. Importantly, our results indicate an intricate interplay between host genetics, the oral microbiota, and metabolic health. We emphasize the need for integrative approaches considering genetic, microbial, and metabolic factors.
Effects of aeolian deposition on soil properties and microbial carbon metabolism function in farmland of Songnen Plain, China
Authors: Mo Jixian , Song Ziwei , Che Yanjing , Li Jie , Liu Tianyi , Feng Jingyi , Wang Ziying , Rong Jiandong , Gu Siyu
Published: June 2024

The effects of wind erosion, one of the crucial causes of soil desertification in the world, on the terrestrial ecosystem are well known. However, ecosystem responses regarding soil microbial carbon metabolism to sand deposition caused by wind erosion, a crucial driver of biogeochemical cycles, remain largely unclear. In this study, we collected soil samples from typical aeolian deposition farmland in the Songnen Plain of China to evaluate the effects of sand deposition on soil properties, microbial communities, and carbon metabolism function. We also determined the reads number of carbon metabolism-related genes by high-throughput sequencing technologies and evaluated the association between sand deposition and them. The results showed that long-term sand deposition resulted in soil infertile, roughness, and dryness. The impacts of sand deposition on topsoil were more severe than on deep soil. The diversity of soil microbial communities was significantly reduced due to sand deposition. The relative abundances of Nitrobacteraceae, Burkholderiaceae, and Rhodanobacteraceae belonging to α-Proteobacteria significantly decreased, while the relative abundances of Streptomycetaceae and Geodermatophilaceae belonging to Actinobacteria increased. The results of the metagenomic analysis showed that the gene abundances of carbohydrate metabolism and carbohydrate-activity enzyme (GH and CBM) significantly decreased with the increase of sand deposition amount. The changes in soil microbial community structure and carbon metabolism decreased soil carbon emissions and carbon cycling in aeolian deposition farmland, which may be the essential reasons for land degradation in aeolian deposition farmland.
Implications of mitochondrial membrane potential gradients on signaling and ATP production analyzed by correlative multi-parameter microscopy
Authors: Gottschalk Benjamin , Koshenov Zhanat , Malli Roland , Graier Wolfgang F.
Published: June 2024

The complex architecture and biochemistry of the inner mitochondrial membrane generate ultra-structures with different phospholipid and protein compositions, shapes, characteristics, and functions. The crista junction (CJ) serves as an important barrier separating the cristae (CM) and inner boundary membranes (IBM). Thereby CJ regulates the movement of ions and ensures distinct electrical potentials across the cristae (ΔΨC) and inner boundary (ΔΨIBM) membranes. We have developed a robust and flexible approach to visualize the CJ permeability with super-resolution microscopy as a readout of local mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨmito) fluctuations. This method involves analyzing the distribution of TMRM fluorescence intensity in a model that is restricted to the mitochondrial geometry. We show that mitochondrial Ca2+ elevation hyperpolarizes the CM most likely caused by Ca2+ sensitive increase of mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) and subsequent oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) activity in the cristae. Dynamic multi-parameter correlation measurements of spatial mitochondrial membrane potential gradients, ATP levels, and mitochondrial morphometrics revealed a CJ-based membrane potential overflow valve mechanism protecting the mitochondrial integrity during excessive cristae hyperpolarization.
The protective effect of physical activity on mental health of middle school students at different stages during the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Dong Ru-bao , Dou Kai-yun , Huang Jiaben , Wang Ronghua
Published: June 2024

This study aims to further understand the changes in physical activity level(PAL) and mental health among adolescents before and after the outbreak of COVID-19 and explore the protective role of physical activity (PA) on the mental health of adolescents during major disasters. A convenient sampling method was used to conduct a cross-sectional survey. The cross-sectional data from 2838 Chinese middle school students (mean age = 14.91 ± 1.71 years, 49.54% female) were used, of which 1,471 and 1,367 were in 2021 and 2022, respectively. The PAL was collected using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-CN), mental health status was collected using the Mental Health Inventory of Middle School Students (MMHI-60), sociodemographic information was collected using a self-reported questionnaire. Before and after the outbreak of COVID-19, the PAL of adolescents was 2.36 ± 0.74 and 2.50 ± 0.66, respectively, with a significant difference (p < 0.01, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.19). The mental health scores were 1.71 ± 0.60 and 1.86 ± 0.73, respectively, with a significant difference (p < 0.01, 95% CI: − 0.20, − 0.10). The detection rates of mental health problems were 27.50% and 35.50%, respectively. The rates of achieving PAL standards were 30.20% and 18.00% among adolescents, while the rates of not achieving PAL standards were 39.60% and 18.00%. PA is a protective factor for the mental health of adolescents during major disasters.
New combined experimental and DFT studies for adsorption of sole Azo-dye or binary cationic dyes from aqueous solution
Authors: Ibrahim Shaimaa M. , Al-Harby Nouf F. , El-Molla Sahar. A. , Ibrahim EL-Shimaa
Published: June 2024

Textile-toxic synthetic dyes, which possess complex aromatic structures, are emitted into wastewater from various branches. To address this issue, the adsorption process was applied as an attractive method for the removal of dye contaminants from water in this article. An unprecedented integrated experimental study has been carried out, accompanied by theoretical simulations at the DFT-B3LYP/6-31G (d,P) level of theory to investigate how single Maxilon Blue GRL (MxB) dye or and its mixture with MG (Malachite Green) dyes interact with the adsorbent and compare the obtained results with the data obtained through experimentation. The full geometry optimization revealed the physical adsorption of dyes on the Al2O3 surface. Non-linear optical properties (NLO) results emphasized that the complex MG-Al2O3-MxB is a highly promising material in photo-applications, and the adsorbed binary system is energetically more favorable compared to the adsorbed sole dye system. The experimental results for (MxB) dye adsorption onto γ-Al2O3 affirmed that the optimum conditions to get more than 98% uptake were at dye concentration 100 ppm, pH 10, adsorbent content 0.05 g, and equilibrium time only 20 min. The kinetic and isothermal studies revealed that the adsorption accepted with the pseudo-second-order and Freundlich isotherm model, respectively. The removal efficiency of the mixture of MxB and MG dyes was the highest but did not change clearly with increasing the % of any of them. The details of the interaction mechanisms of the sole and binary dyes were proven.
Single-cell transcriptome profiling highlights the importance of telocyte, kallikrein genes, and alternative splicing in mouse testes aging
Authors: Guo Wuyier , Zhang Ziyan , Kang Jiahui , Gao Yajing , Qian Peipei , Xie Gangcai
Published: June 2024

Advancing healthcare for elderly men requires a deeper understanding of testicular aging processes. In this study, we conducted transcriptomic profiling of 43,323 testicular single cells from young and old mice, shedding light on 1032 telocytes—an underexplored testicular cell type in previous research. Our study unveiled 916 age-related differentially expressed genes (age-DEGs), with telocytes emerging as the cell type harboring the highest count of age-DEGs. Of particular interest, four genes (Klk1b21, Klk1b22, Klk1b24, Klk1b27) from the Kallikrein family, specifically expressed in Leydig cells, displayed down-regulation in aged testes. Moreover, cell-type-level splicing analyses unveiled 1838 age-related alternative splicing (AS) events. While we confirmed the presence of more age-DEGs in somatic cells compared to germ cells, unexpectedly, more age-related AS events were identified in germ cells. Further experimental validation highlighted 4930555F03Rik, a non-coding RNA gene exhibiting significant age-related AS changes. Our study represents the first age-related single-cell transcriptomic investigation of testicular telocytes and Kallikrein genes in Leydig cells, as well as the first delineation of cell-type-level AS dynamics during testicular aging in mice.
Core and surface structure and magnetic properties of mechano-synthesized LaFeO3 nanoparticles and their Eu3+-doped and Eu3+/Cr3+-co-doped variants
Authors: Al-Mamari R. T. , Widatallah H. M. , Elzain M. E. , Gismelseed A. M. , Al-Rawas A. D. , Al-Harthi S. H. , Myint M. T. Z. , Al-Saqri N. , Al-Abri M.
Published: June 2024

The core and surface structure and magnetic properties of mechano synthesized LaFeO3 nanoparticles (30–40 nm), their Eu3+-doped (La0.70Eu0.30FeO3), and Eu3+/Cr3+ co-doped (La0.70Eu0.30Fe0.95Cr0.05O3) variants are reported. Doping results in a transition from the O′-type to the O-type distorted structure. Traces of reactants, intermediate phases, and a small amount of Eu2+ ions were detected on the surfaces of the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles consist of antiferromagnetic cores flanked by ferromagnetic shells. The Eu3+ dopant ions enhance the magnetization values relative to those of the pristine nanoparticles and result in magnetic susceptibilities compatible with the presence of Eu3+ van Vleck paramagnetism of spin–orbit coupling constant (λ = 363 cm−1) and a low temperature Curie–Weiss like behavior associated with the minority Eu2+ ions. Anomalous temperature-dependent magnetic hardening due to competing magnetic anisotropy and magnetoelectric coupling effects together with a temperature-dependent dopant-sensitive exchange bias, caused by thermally activated spin reversals at the core of the nanoparticles, were observed.
Short-read full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing for characterisation of the respiratory bacteriome of captive and free-ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana)
Authors: Martin Lauren C. , O’Hare Michaela A. , Ghielmetti Giovanni , Twesigomwe David , Kerr Tanya J. , Gumbo Rachiel , Buss Peter E. , Kitchin Natasha , Hemmings Sian M. J. , Miller Michele A. , Goosen Wynand J.
Published: June 2024

Hypervariable region sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene plays a critical role in microbial ecology by offering insights into bacterial communities within specific niches. While providing valuable genus-level information, its reliance on data from targeted genetic regions limits its overall utility. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have enabled characterisation of the full-length 16S rRNA gene, enhancing species-level classification. Although current short-read platforms are cost-effective and precise, they lack full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing capability. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a modified 150 bp paired-end full-length 16S rRNA amplicon short-read sequencing technique on the Illumina iSeq 100 and 16S rRNA amplicon assembly workflow by utilising a standard mock microbial community and subsequently performing exploratory characterisation of captive (zoo) and free-ranging African elephant (Loxodonta africana) respiratory microbiota. Our findings demonstrate that, despite generating assembled amplicons averaging 869 bp in length, this sequencing technique provides taxonomic assignments consistent with the theoretical composition of the mock community and respiratory microbiota of other mammals. Tentative bacterial signatures, potentially representing distinct respiratory tract compartments (trunk and lower respiratory tract) were visually identified, necessitating further investigation to gain deeper insights into their implication for elephant physiology and health.
Hidden orders and phase transitions for the fully packed quantum loop model on the triangular lattice
Authors: Ran Xiaoxue , Yan Zheng , Wang Yan-Cheng , Samajdar Rhine , Rong Junchen , Sachdev Subir , Qi Yang , Meng Zi Yang
Published: June 2024

Quantum loop and dimer models are prototypical correlated systems with local constraints, which are not only intimately connected to lattice gauge theories and topological orders but are also widely applicable to the broad research areas of quantum materials and quantum simulation. Employing our sweeping cluster quantum Monte Carlo algorithm, we reveal the complete phase diagram of the triangular-lattice fully packed quantum loop model. Apart from the known lattice nematic (LN) solid and the even $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

Z

2

quantum spin liquid (QSL) phases, we discover a hidden vison plaquette (VP) phase, which had been overlooked and misinterpreted as a QSL for more than a decade. Moreover, the VP-to-QSL continuous transition belongs to the (2 + 1)D cubic* universality class, which offers a lattice realization of the (fractionalized) cubic fixed point that had long been considered as irrelevant towards the O(3) symmetry until corrected recently by conformal bootstrap calculations. Our results are therefore of relevance to recent developments in both experiments and theory, and facilitate further investigations of hidden phases and transitions.
Experimental observation of violent relaxation
Authors: Braidotti Maria Chiara , Lovisetto Martino , Prizia Radivoje , Michel Claire , Didier Clamond , Bellec Matthieu , Wright Ewan M. , Marcos Bruno , Faccio Daniele
Published: June 2024

Structures in the Universe, ranging from globular clusters to entire galaxies, are not described by standard statistical mechanics at equilibrium. Instead, they are formed through a process of a very different nature, called violent relaxation that is now known to be possible also in other systems that exhibit long-range interactions. This mechanism was proposed theoretically and modelled numerically, but never directly observed in any physical system. Here, we develop a table-top experiment allowing us to directly observe violent relaxation in an optical setting. The resulting optical dynamics can also be likened to the formation of an analogue 2D-galaxy through the analogy of the underlying equations, where we can control a range of parameters, including the nonlocal interacting potential, allowing us to emulate the physics of gravitational quantum and classical dark matter models.
Formation of silicic crust on early Earth and young planetary bodies in an Iceland-like setting
Authors: Law Sally , Hastie Alan R. , Young Lindsay A. , Thordarson Thor
Published: June 2024

Four billion years ago, Earth’s surface was covered with a thick basaltic crust and, similar to other rocky planets and the Moon, parts of this basaltic crust underwent partial melting to produce silicic crust. On Earth, silicic crust grew into the continents. An analogue of a pre-subduction early Earth and rocky planetary bodies is found in Iceland, where poorly understood granitic rocks are encased in thick basaltic crust away from any active subduction zone. Here, we investigate these Icelandic granitoids to understand the mechanisms that generated the Earth’s oldest continents, and silicic rocks on Mars and Venus. New geochemical data from silicic Icelandic intrusions, show that the granitoids are formed through partial melting of the Icelandic crust, but are compositionally unlike early Earth continental material. We show that intra-crustal partial melting of basalt can potentially form silicic material on other planetary bodies but cannot produce the first continents on Earth.
Unnatural lipids for simultaneous mRNA delivery and metabolic cell labeling
Authors: Liu Yusheng , Zhou Jiadiao , Wang Yueji , Baskaran Dhyanesh , Wang Hua
Published: June 2024

Azido-lipid enables simultaneous delivery of mRNA and metabolic tagging of cell membranes.
Catalytic processes for the selective hydrogenation of fats and oils: reevaluating a mature technology for feedstock diversification
Authors: Spiekermann Maximilian L. , Seidensticker Thomas
Published: June 2024

Catalytic processes for the selective partial hydrogenation of renewable fats and oils are reviewed and evaluated regarding their applicability to produce standardized substrates for the synthesis of chemical intermediates.
Proton-assisted seven-electron acceptor properties of di-iso-propylphenyl-bis-iminoacenaphthene
Authors: Khrizanforova Vera V. , Fayzullin Robert R. , Morozov Vladimir I. , Budnikova Yulia H.
Published: June 2024

Herein, we report the record-breaking seven-electron reduction of di-iso-propylphenyl-bis-iminoacenaphthene (dpp-bian) involving protons under chemical and electrochemical reduction conditions.
Synthesis and catalytic activity of heterobimetallic Au/M (M = RhIII, IrIII) complexes with ditopic mono- and triphosphane ligands
Authors: Predarska Ivana , Körber Wieland , Lönnecke Peter , Gelman Dmitri , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: June 2024

Universal ligand frameworks for designing heterobimetallic catalysts are described. Au/M (M = RhIII, IrIII) complexes were prepared with a ditopic mono- or triphosphane ligand. Gold(i) is only catalytically active when coordinated by a monophosphane.
In situ synthesis of europium oxide (Eu2O3) nanoparticles in heteroatom doped carbon nanofibers for boosting the cycling stability of supercapacitors
Authors: Aydın Hamide , Üstün Burcu , Kurtan Ümran , Şahintürk Utkan , Karakuş Selcan
Published: June 2024

Maintaining a high specific energy without losing cycling stability is the focus of the supercapacitor field.
Chemical composition-induced evolution of the structure, domain and electrical properties of Sm-doped (1 − x)Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3
Authors: Yu Haoran , Guo Jian , Wang Jiajia , Zhang Ji , Zhang Shan-Tao
Published: June 2024

1.5 mol% Sm-doped (1 − x)Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 ceramics were prepared and investigated systematically. A rhombohedral–tetragonal morphotropic phase boundary occurred near x = 0.36 and showed peak ferro/piezoelectric properties.
Proteomic insights into composition-dependent effects of microplastics on freshwater microalgae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Xu Liting , Chu Zheng , Li Xiaoxue , Feng Chenran , Zhang Ying , Wang Chen , Zhang Junzhe , Xu Chengchao , Wang Jigang , Tang Huan
Published: June 2024

Molecular mechanisms of composition-dependent toxicity effects of microplastics on freshwater microalgae.
Association of vitamin D intake during pregnancy with small vulnerable newborns: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Villagrán Escobar Gabriela Maria , Chen Ziyu , Li Xiu , Xiong Guoping , Yang Xuefeng , Shen Jian , Hao Liping
Published: June 2024

Maternal vitamin D deficiency is common worldwide and has a significant impact on newborns.
Tuning the charge transport properties of non-planar zinc(ii) complexes of azadipyrromethenes using solubilizing groups
Authors: Knight Lexi , Jimenez Jayvic C. , Tran Quynh , Zhao Muyuan , Pugh Madison H. , Brancel Christina D. , Zhang Honghu , Li Ruipeng , Yuan Yi , Li Yuning , Zhu Lei , Sauvé Geneviève
Published: June 2024

Side chain engineering of non-planar zinc(ii) complexes of azadipyrromethene enables either very high hole mobility, high electron mobility or both as estimated by the space-charge limited current (SCLC) method in diodes.
Injectable hydrogels for bone regeneration with tunable degradability via peptide chirality modification
Authors: Chen Weikai , Sheng Shihao , Tan Kai , Wang Sicheng , Wu Xiang , Yang Jiayi , Hu Yan , Cao Liehu , Xu Ke , Zhou Fengjin , Su Jiacan , Zhang Qin , Yang Lei
Published: June 2024

A matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-responsive degradable hydrogel crosslinked with l-chiral MMP-sensitive peptides exhibits an enhanced degradation rate, contributing to promoted cell migration for effective bone regeneration.
Performance optimization and comparison of vertical motion-based triboelectric nanogenerators
Authors: Zhu Wenwu , Peng Jun , Qin Ao , Yuan Kanglong , Zhu Boshi , Lang Shuai , Ma Jiliang , Sun Chuang , Chen Xuefeng
Published: June 2024

Output performance and comparison of vertical motion-based triboelectric nanogenerators based on a novel sandwich-structured dielectric layer and a DC-TENG.
Professor (Dr) Sukh Dev: an iconic scientist with an innate sixth sense who radicalized natural product synthesis & organic chemistry
Authors: Kochat Harry , Yadav J. S. , Singh Vinod K. , Ramasastry S. S. V.
Published: June 2024

Harry Kochat, J. S. Yadav, Vinod K. Singh and S. S. V. Ramasastry introduce the special Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry themed collection celebrating the 100th birthday of Professor Sukh Dev.
Copper-driven formation of siloxanes via dehydrocoupling between hydrosilanes and silanols
Authors: Markwitz Martyna , Łyczek Kacper , Bu Qingqing , Kuciński Krzysztof
Published: June 2024

Sustainable dehydrogenative coupling: silanols and hydrosilanes unite under Earth abundant copper catalysis with exceptional efficiency and selectivity at room temperature.
A copper-catalyzed annulation reaction of diazo esters with propargyl amines for the synthesis of 2,5-dihydropyrroles
Authors: Xie Haodong , Zhao Wei , Wei Heping , Yu Yang , Zhao Lili , Baell Jonathan B. , Huang Fei
Published: June 2024

An efficient protocol for the synthesis of 2,5-dihydropyrroles using diazo esters and propargyl amines has been reported, featuring mild reaction conditions, straightforward operation, the absence of metal ligands, and high atom economy.
Efficient synthesis of glycerol carbonate over a commercially available 4A molecular sieve via an integrated vacuum reactive distillation process
Authors: Huang Jiayin , Wang Anwei , Zhao Chunsheng , Fan Yu , Cao Shanshan , Tian Zheng , Zhou Weiyou
Published: June 2024

An efficient reaction process for the preparation of glycerol carbonate through transesterification has been provided using an integrated vacuum reactive distillation process in the presence of a 4A molecular sieve.
Isocyanides inhibit bacterial pathogens by covalent targeting of essential metabolic enzymes
Authors: Geißler Alexandra , Junca Howard , Kany Andreas M. , Daumann Lena J. , Hirsch Anna K. H. , Pieper Dietmar H. , Sieber Stephan A.
Published: June 2024

Isocyanides inhibit the growth of bacterial pathogens by covalently targeting essential metabolic enzymes at their active site cysteines.
Experimental and computational study on the effects of exhaust gas recirculation on thermodynamics, combustion and emission characteristics of a diesel pilot ignition natural gas engine
Authors: Shu Jun , Fu Jianqin , Yang Wenhui , Huang Jianxiang , He Tingpu , Liu Jingping
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the impact of diesel pilot ignition (DPI) natural gas (NG) engines on combustion and emission characteristics across various exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) volumes.
An organic/inorganic hybrid soft material for supramolecular adhesion
Authors: Zhang Yunfei , Yi Wenchang , Pan Jia , Liu Song , Dong Shengyi
Published: June 2024

An organic/inorganic hybrid supramolecular adhesive with 3D printing capacity was prepared from low-molecular-weight monomers.
CO2-tolerant perovskite cathodes for enhanced solid oxide fuel cells: advancements, challenges, and strategic perspectives
Authors: Ma Zilin , Ye Qirui , Ye Huaqing , Dong Feifei , Ni Meng , Lin Zhan
Published: June 2024

This review analyzes advancements in CO2-resistant perovskite cathodes for solid oxide fuel cells, detailing CO2-poisoning mechanisms, evaluation methods, enhancement strategies, and characterization techniques for future cathode development.
Hierarchical architecture composites of N-doped hollow polyhedra anchored on Ti3C2Tx nanosheets for advanced lithium-ion and sodium-ion capacitors
Authors: Wu Wenling , Diwu Jiahao , Guo Jiang , Fang Yuan , Wang Lei , Li Chenguang , Wu Qing , Zhu Jianfeng
Published: June 2024

2D-Ti3C2Tx conductive thin films and N-doped hollow polyhedra are tightly anchored by strong electrostatic adsorption, ensuring high electron conductivity and fast ion transport channels in multilevel composite structures.
Accelerating materials discovery for electrocatalytic water oxidation via center-environment deep learning in spinel oxides
Authors: Li Yihang , Zhang Xinying , Li Tao , Chen Yingying , Liu Yi , Feng Lingyan
Published: June 2024

Using DFT and machine learning, we evaluated 5329 spinel oxides and identified 14 promising OER electrocatalysts. Experimentally, MoAg2O4 showed superior performance, achieving 10 mA cm−2 at 284 mV overpotential, surpassing commercial RuO2.
Improved energy storage properties achieved in NaNbO3-based relaxor antiferroelectric ceramics via anti-parallel polar nanoregion design
Authors: Wang Zhentao , Li Da , Liu Wenyuan , Liang Xu , Zhao Weichen , Liu Jinnan , Ren Jiajia , Zhou Tao , Xu Diming , Liu Wenfeng , Zhou Di
Published: June 2024

With the increase in environment protection requirements and the development of pulse-power technology, environmentally friendly antiferroelectric materials with superior energy storage performance have received increasing attention.
Reactivity and durability of TiO2 photoanodes with dominant high-energy (211) facets
Authors: Lyu Yanhong , Zheng Jianyun , Huang Aibin , Zhou Huaijuan , Jiang San Ping , Wang Shuangyin
Published: June 2024

We report a successful preparation of a TiO2 photoanode with dominant (211) facets on various substrates. This photoanode can be used in rooftop PEC systems due to its low cost, high stability, good durability and acceptable efficiency.
Self-powered VO2 phase transition based on triboelectric nanogenerator
Authors: Dang Tianrui , Zhao Junqing , Zeng Jianhua , Bu Tianzhao , Li Jiaodi , Dai Yiming , Dong Zefang , Feng Yuan , Chen Yuanfen , Zhang Chi
Published: June 2024

A self-powered VO2 phase transition modulate technology based on the raindrop TENG can successfully achieve metal–insulator transition and has potential applications in smart homes and intelligent vehicles.
Surface functionalization of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Authors: Kataoka Takuya , Liu Zizhen , Yamada Iori , Galindo Tania Guadalupe Peñaflor , Tagaya Motohiro
Published: June 2024

This review described the highlight of surface engineering of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and their interactions with ions and molecules, and summarized how the surface functionalization effectively work in biological situations.
Advances in biomimetic nanomaterial delivery systems: harnessing nature's inspiration for targeted drug delivery
Authors: Kang Weiqi , Xu Zhe , Lu Haiying , Liu Siwei , Li Jianshu , Ding Chunmei , Lu Yongping
Published: June 2024

The properties of nanomaterials make them promising and advantageous for use in drug delivery systems, but challenges arise from the immune system's recognition of exogenous nanoparticles, leading to their clearance and reduced targeting efficiency.
Selection of phenyl hydrazine derivatives as an Sn4+ reductant for tin–lead perovskite solar cells
Authors: Xing Yanjun , Xiong Jiaxing , Wang Qiuxiang , Wang Changlei , Huang Like , Liu Xiaohui , Tai Qidong , Zhu Yuejin , Zhang Jing
Published: June 2024

Proposed Sn–Pb perovskites: hydrochlorination suppresses phenyl hydrazine deprotonation, enhancing device stability, photovoltage, and efficiency at AM1.5 with sulfonamide.
Defect band enhanced Ca9Y(VO4)7: Yb3+/Er3+/Sr2+ phosphor upconversion luminescence for multimode optical temperature measurement
Authors: Hu Junshan , Duan Bin , Kuang Yao , Wu Yuxiang , Li Yongqiang , Jin Wei , Wang Fengyi , Ding Changchun
Published: June 2024

The Ca9Y(VO4)7: Yb3+/Er3+/Sr2+ phosphor has excellent upconversion luminescence. In addition, 4F9/2/4I9/2, 2H11/2/4S3/2 and 2H11/2/4F9/2 optical temperature measurement exhibits accurate and stable temperature measurement performance.