bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TGF-β1 induces formation of TSG-6-enriched extracellular vesicles in fibroblasts which can prevent myofibroblast transformation by modulating Erk1/2 phosphorylation
Authors: Ilg Marcus M. , Bustin Stephen A. , Ralph David J. , Cellek Selim
Published: May 2024

Extracellular vesicles have emerged as important mediators of cell-to-cell communication in the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases. One such disease is Peyronie’s disease (PD), a fibrotic disorder of the penis caused by uncontrolled transformation of resident fibroblasts to alpha-smooth muscle actin positive myofibroblasts. These cells produce large amounts of extracellular matrix, leading to formation of a plaque in the penile tunica albuginea (TA), causing pain, penile curvature, and erectile dysfunction. We have used primary fibroblasts derived from the TA of PD patients to explore the role of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), a key signalling factor in this process. TGF-β1 treatment elicited a range of responses from the myofibroblasts: (i) they secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs) that were more numerous and differed in size and shape from those secreted by fibroblasts, (ii) these EVs prevented TGF-β1-induced transformation of fibroblasts in a manner that was dependent on vesicle uptake and (iii) they prevented phosphorylation of Erk1/2, a critical component in modulating fibrogenic phenotypic responses, but did not affect TGF-β1-induced Smad-signalling. We posit that this effect could be linked to enrichment of TSG-6 in myofibroblast-derived EVs. The ability of myofibroblast-derived vesicles to prevent further myofibroblast transformation may establish them as part of an anti-fibrotic negative feedback loop, with potential to be exploited for future therapeutic approaches.
Generalized roughness of three dimensional ($$\in ,\in \vee q$$)-fuzzy ideals in terms of set-valued homomorphism
Authors: Bashir Shahida , Mazhar Rabia , Kausar Nasreen , Yaman Saziye , Ali Syed Suleman , Afzal Muneeb Ul Hassan
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study is to generalize the roughness of a fuzzy set-in three-dimensional structure by introducing ternary multiplication. Many results and theorems of rough fuzzy ideals have been extended from semigroup and semiring, to ternary semiring by introducing the definition of a rough fuzzy subset of ternary semiring. By using the concept of set-valued homomorphism and strong set-valued homomorphism, it is proved generalized lower and upper approximations of $$(\in , \in \vee q)$$

(
∈
,
∈
∨
q
)

-fuzzy ideals (semiprime and prime ideals) of ternary semirings are $$(\in ,\in \vee q)$$

(
∈
,
∈
∨
q
)

-fuzzy ideals (semiprime and prime ideals) respectively.
Perceived barriers and factors influencing uptake of breast cancer screening among women: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Joho Angelina A. , Mdoe Mwajuma B. , Masoi Theresia J. , Yahaya James J.
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer (BC) screening plays a major role in the prevention of BC through early detection and timely treatment. This study aims to determine the level of uptake of BC screening and associated factors. A community-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Dodoma City, Tanzania from July to December 2020. The study included women aged 8 years and above without a known history of breast cancer. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the socio-demographic factors associated with BC screening. P value < 0.05 was considered significant. A total of 354 study participants were included in the present study. The mean age of participants was 31.0 ± 11.8 years. The majority of study participants (67.5%, n = 239) were aware of BC screening. However, only (35.3%, n = 125) reported to have ever practised BC screening. Breast self-examination was the most (16.4%, n = 58) frequently used method for BC screening among study participants. Lack of knowledge of all methods of BC screening was the barrier that was perceived by the vast majority (60.2%, n = 213) of the study participants. Having low family income was the only predictor of failure to practice BC screening. In this study, most of the women were aware of BC, however, few of them had undergone breast cancer (BC) screening at the time of the interview. The study also found that the main barrier to BC screening was the lack of knowledge about BC among the study participants. Immediate measures are necessary to increase women's awareness of BC. Such as community sensitization on the importance of screening, can help improve the uptake of BC screening and the early detection of BC.
Enhancing sustainability in self-compacting concrete by optimizing blended supplementary cementitious materials
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Mehboob Syed Saqib , Tayyab Aisha , Khan Diyar , Hayyat Khizar , Ali Afsar , Latif Qureshi Qadir Bux Imran
Published: May 2024

Within concrete engineering, the uptake of self-compacting concrete (SCC) represents a notable trend, delivering improved workability and placement efficiency. However, challenges persist, notably in achieving optimal performance while mitigating environmental impacts, particularly in cement consumption. However, simply reducing the cement content in the mix design can directly compromise the structural-concrete requirements. Towards these challenges, global trends emphasize the utilization of appropriate waste materials in blended concrete. This study explored a promising strategy by integrating supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in addition to the engineering contributions. It suggests an optimal combination of Metakaolin (MK) and Limestone Powder (LP) to partially substitute cement. The research methodology employs the response surface method (RSM) to systematically explore the ideal ingredient ratios. Through a comprehensive analysis of orthogonal array of 16 mixes, encompassing both mixture and process variables, this study aims to explain the effects of MK and LP addition on the rheological and mechanical properties of SCC with varying cement replacement levels. In terms of mixture constituents, the total composition of cement, MK, and LP was fixed at 100%, while coarse aggregate (CA), fine aggregate (FA), and the water-to-binder ratio were held as process variables. In order to assess the rheological properties of the mix-design, various tests including slump flow, L-box, and sieve segregation were conducted. Additionally, to evaluate mechanical strength, samples were tested for compressive strength at both 7 and 28 days. Findings from the experiments reveal higher concentrations of MK result in reduced workability and hardened properties. Through RSM-based designed experimentation covering both rheological and mechanical aspects, it is observed that the optimal cement replacement level lies between 40 and 55%. The findings of this study contribute to the advancement of sustainable and structurally robust concrete practices, offering insights into the optimal utilization of SCMs to meet both engineering requirements and environmental sustainability goals.
The interaction between diet quality and cigarette smoking on the incidence of hypertension, stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and all-cause mortality
Authors: Norouzzadeh Mostafa , Teymoori Farshad , Farhadnejad Hossein , Moslehi Nazanin , Rahideh Seyedeh Tayebeh , Mirmiran Parvin , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to examine the interaction between diet quality indices (DQIs) and smoking on the incidence of hypertension (HTN), stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and all-cause mortality. We prospectively followed 5720 participants and collected dietary data via a validated food frequency questionnaire to calculate DQI-international (DQI-I) and DQI-revised (DQI-R). Considering an interaction analysis, we classified participants based on diet quality (median: higher/lower) and smoking status. Over 9 years of follow-up, higher diet quality scores were associated with a lower risk of stroke and mortality. While current smokers had a higher risk of stroke and mortality but had a lower risk of developing HTN. Compared to the current smokers with lower diet quality, nonsmokers with higher diet quality according to the DQI-I [HR 0.24; 95% CI (0.08, 0.66)], and DQI-R [HR 0.20; 95% CI (0.07, 0.57)] had a lower risk of stroke. Moreover, the lower risk of mortality was more evident in nonsmokers with higher DQI-I [HR 0.40; 95% CI (0.22–0.75)] and DQI-R scores [HR 0.34; 95% CI (0.18–0.63)] compared to nonsmokers with lower diet quality. While higher DQI-I and DQI-R scores were associated with a lower risk of stroke and mortality, this beneficial effect may be negated by smoking.
Optimal seasonal schedule for the production of isoprene, a highly volatile biogenic VOC
Authors: Iwasa Yoh , Hayashi Rena , Satake Akiko
Published: May 2024

The leaves of many trees emit volatile organic compounds (abbreviated as BVOCs), which protect them from various damages, such as herbivory, pathogens, and heat stress. For example, isoprene is highly volatile and is known to enhance the resistance to heat stress. In this study, we analyze the optimal seasonal schedule for producing isoprene in leaves to mitigate damage. We assume that photosynthetic rate, heat stress, and the stress-suppressing effect of isoprene may vary throughout the season. We seek the seasonal schedule of isoprene production that maximizes the total net photosynthesis using Pontryagin’s maximum principle. The isoprene production rate is determined by the changing balance between the cost and benefit of enhanced leaf protection over time. If heat stress peaks in midsummer, isoprene production can reach its highest levels during the summer. However, if a large portion of leaves is lost due to heat stress in a short period, the optimal schedule involves peaking isoprene production after the peak of heat stress. Both high photosynthetic rate and high isoprene volatility in midsummer make the peak of isoprene production in spring. These results can be clearly understood by distinguishing immediate impacts and the impacts of future expectations.
Translatomics reveals the role of dietary calcium addition in regulating muscle fat deposition in pigs
Authors: Yu Jingsu , Li Xiangling , Qi Xinyu , Ding Zhaoxuan , Su Songtao , Yu Lin , Zhou Lei , Li Yixing
Published: May 2024

Intramuscular fat (IMF) in pork holds significant importance for economic performance within the pig industry and dietary calcium supplementation enhances the accumulation of intramuscular fat. Additionally, calcium ions inhibit translation and reduce protein synthesis. However, the mechanism by which calcium regulates IMF deposition in muscle through translation remains largely unknown. In this study, we compared the ribosome profiles of the longissimus dorsi muscles of Duroc $$\times$$
×
Landrace $$\times$$
×
Large white pigs from the normal calcium (NC) group or calcium supplement (HC) group by Ribo-seq, and RNA-seq. By integrating multiple-omics analysis, we further discovered 437 genes that were transcriptionally unchanged but translationally altered and these genes were significantly enriched in the oxidative phosphorylation signaling pathway. Furthermore, experimental data showed that inhibiting the expression of COX10 and mtND4L increased triglyceride accumulation in C2C12 cells, providing new targets for intramuscular fat deposition. Finally, this work links dietary calcium, translation regulation and IMF deposition, providing a new strategy for both meat quality and economic performance within the pig industry.
Nanomaterials functionalized acidic ionic organosilica as highly active catalyst in the selective synthesis of benzimidazole via dehydrogenative coupling of diamines and alcohols
Authors: Rajabi Fatemeh , Feiz Afsaneh
Published: May 2024

An acidic tungstate-based zwitterionic organosilica drived simple self-condensation of tungstic acid and zwitterionic organosilane (PMO-IL-WO42−), was remarkably demonstrated to be highly efficient and environmentally friendly catalyst for directly selective synthesis of benzimidazoles from benzyl alcohols under atmpshpheric air pressure and without any additional oxidant. The one-pot synthesis of benzimidazoles from benzyl alcohols and 1,2-phenylenediamine was efficiently achieved via direct dehydrogenative reaction using a low amount of recoverable PMO-IL-WO42− nanocatalyst in water under ambient conditions with a conversion efficiency of more than 90%. Enhancements in yield and selectivity of benzimidazole formation were observed when water was utilized as the solvent. Furthermore, the PMO-IL-WO42− nanocatalyst exhibited exceptional stability, demonstrating the ability to be effortlessly separated and reused for at least eight reaction cycles without any noticeable loss in activity or product selectivity. This method supports an eco-friendly atom economy and provides a sustainable approach to accessing benzimidazoles directly from benzyl alcohols under mild conditions, demonstrating its potential for practical applications in organic synthesis.
Survival after partial heart transplantation in a piglet model
Authors: Medina Cathlyn K. , Moya-Mendez Mary E. , Aykut Berk , Jeffs Sydney , Kang Lillian , Evans Amy , Parker Lauren E. , Miller Stephen G. , Helke Kristi L. , Overbey Douglas M. , Turek Joseph W. , Rajab Taufiek Konrad
Published: May 2024

Partial heart transplantation (PHT) is a novel surgical approach that involves transplantation of only the part of the heart containing a valve. The rationale for this approach is to deliver growing heart valve implants that reduce the need for future re-operations in children. However, prior to clinical application of this approach, it was important to assess it in a preclinical model. To investigate PHT short-term outcomes and safety, we performed PHT in a piglet model. Yorkshire piglets (n = 14) were used for PHT of the pulmonary valve. Donor and recipient pairs were matched based on blood types. The piglets underwent PHT at an average age of 44 days (range 34–53). Post-operatively, the piglets were monitored for a period of two months. Of the 7 recipient piglets, one mortality occurred secondary to anesthesia complications while undergoing a routine echocardiogram on post-operative day 19. All piglets had appropriate weight gain and laboratory findings throughout the post-operative period indicating a general state of good health and rehabilitation after undergoing PHT. We conclude that PHT has good short-term survival in the swine model. PHT appears to be safe for clinical application.
A deep learning approach for electric motor fault diagnosis based on modified InceptionV3
Authors: Xu Lifu , Teoh Soo Siang , Ibrahim Haidi
Published: May 2024

Electric motors are essential equipment widely employed in various sectors. However, factors such as prolonged operation, environmental conditions, and inadequate maintenance make electric motors prone to various failures. In this study, we propose a thermography-based motor fault detection method based on InceptionV3 model. To enhance the detection accuracy, we apply Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) to the input images. Furthermore, we improved the performance of the InceptionV3 by integrating a Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) channel attention mechanism. The proposed model was tested using a dataset containing 369 thermal images of an electric motor with 11 types of faults. Image augmentation was employed to increase the data size and the evaluation was conducted using fivefold cross validation. Experimental results indicate that the proposed model can achieve accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score of 98.82%, 98.93%, 98.82%, and 98.87%, respectively. Additionally, by freezing the fully connected layers of the InceptionV3 model for feature extraction and training a Support Vector Machines (SVM) to perform classification, it is able to achieve 100% detection rate across all four evaluation metrics. This research contributes to the field of industrial motor fault diagnosis. By incorporating deep learning techniques based on InceptionV3 and SE channel attention mechanism with a traditional classifier, the proposed method can accurately classify different motor faults.
Advanced magnetic resonance imaging detects altered placental development in pregnancies affected by congenital heart disease
Authors: Cromb Daniel , Slator Paddy J. , Hall Megan , Price Anthony , Alexander Daniel C. , Counsell Serena J. , Hutter Jana
Published: May 2024

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital malformation and is associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. The placenta is crucial for healthy fetal development and placental development is altered in pregnancy when the fetus has CHD. This study utilized advanced combined diffusion-relaxation MRI and a data-driven analysis technique to test the hypothesis that placental microstructure and perfusion are altered in CHD-affected pregnancies. 48 participants (36 controls, 12 CHD) underwent 67 MRI scans (50 control, 17 CHD). Significant differences in the weighting of two independent placental and uterine-wall tissue components were identified between the CHD and control groups (both pFDR < 0.001), with changes most evident after 30 weeks gestation. A significant trend over gestation in weighting for a third independent tissue component was also observed in the CHD cohort (R = 0.50, pFDR = 0.04), but not in controls. These findings add to existing evidence that placental development is altered in CHD. The results may reflect alterations in placental perfusion or the changes in fetal-placental flow, villous structure and maturation that occur in CHD. Further research is needed to validate and better understand these findings and to understand the relationship between placental development, CHD, and its neurodevelopmental implications.
The mediating role of ICT learning confidence and technostress between executive functions and digital skills
Authors: Bali Cintia , Feher Zsuzsanna , Arato Nikolett , Kiss Botond Laszlo , Labadi Beatrix , Zsido Andras Norbert
Published: May 2024

Having good digital skills is essential today, yet little is known about the cognitive factors that influence the development of these skills. Given the importance of executive functions (EFs) in adapting to environmental changes and acquiring skills, EFs might contribute to acquiring digital skills too. EFs might also influence people’s approach toward ICTs and affect digital skills through emotional variables. Therefore, here, we tested whether cognitive control and flexibility are connected to computer and smartphone skills through emotional factors (learning confidence, stress, and attitude). A total of 269 participants (56 males, M = 30 years) filled out our survey which included questionnaires on demographic variables (age, education, and socioeconomic status), ICT motivation, digital skills, EFs, and technology-related emotional factors. EFs were also investigated through two performance-based measures. We used generalized linear models and structural equation modeling to test the associations between these variables. The results showed that smartphone skills were positively associated with self-reported cognitive flexibility through ICT learning confidence and technology-induced stress. Self-reported cognitive control and age were connected to smartphone skills directly. Self-reported cognitive flexibility was also associated with computer skills through ICT learning confidence. In addition, performance-based cognitive control and the level of education were directly linked to computer skills. These results may provide guidance to support digital skills and create digital skill training.
Clinical outcomes of colorectal neoplasm with positive resection margin after endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Oh Hyung-Hoon , Kim Je-Seong , Lim Jae-Woong , Lim Chae-June , Seo Young-Eun , You Ga-Ram , Im Chan-Muk , Kim Ki-Hyun , Kim Dong-Hyun , Kim Hyun-Soo , Joo Young-Eun
Published: May 2024

A positive resection margin after colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is associated with an increased risk of recurrence. We aimed to identify the clinical significance of positive resection margins in colorectal neoplasms after ESD. We reviewed 632 patients who had en bloc colorectal ESD at two hospitals between 2015 and 2020. The recurrence rates and presence of residual tumor after surgery were evaluated. The rate of additional surgery after ESD and recurrence rate were significantly higher in patients with incomplete resection (n = 75) compared to patients with complete resection (n = 557). When focusing solely on non-invasive lesions, no significant differences in recurrence rates were observed between the groups with complete and incomplete resection (0.2% vs. 1.9%, p = 0.057). Among 84 patients with submucosal invasive carcinoma, 39 patients underwent additional surgery due to non-curative resection. Positive vertical margin and lymphovascular invasion were associated with residual tumor. Lymphovascular invasion was associated with lymph node metastasis. However, no residual tumor nor lymph node metastases were found in patients with only one unfavorable histological factor. In conclusion, a positive resection margin in non-invasive colorectal lesions, did not significantly impact the recurrence rate. Also, in T1 colorectal cancer with a positive vertical resection margin, salvage surgery can be considered in selected patients with additional risk factors.
Characteristics and mechanism of local scour reduction around spur dike using the collar in clear water
Authors: Qi Hongliang , Wang Jie , Zou Wen , Luo Wenjun , Tian Weiping , Li Jiachun
Published: May 2024

To reduce the local scour around the spur dike, the U-shaped collar is proposed in this study. The influence of the collar's length, width, and porosity on the local scour reduction in clear water is studied by model tests and numerical simulations. Experimental studies show that the collar has a significant effect on reducing the local scour. The location of the maximum scour depth of the spur dike moves downstream. The width of the collar has the greatest impact on the reduction effect among the three selected factors, followed by the porosity and the length. Local scour reduction efficiency of the collar can reach 56.9%. Based on the regression analysis of the range and variety, a formula for predicting the reduction effect around the spur dike is put forward, and the deviation between the values by formula and that in experiments are within ± 4%. The characteristics of the flow field around the spur dike under constant conditions with a collar are studied via numerical simulation. The numerical simulation results show that compared to the case without collar, the flow velocities around the spur dike in cases with permeable collar and solid collar reduced by 45% and 25%, respectively, and the shear stresses reduced by 20% and 28.6%, respectively. The results of this study can provide a reference for local scour reduction using the solid collar or collar made of permeable materials such as gabions.
Detection of atherosclerotic plaques with HDL-like porphyrin nanoparticles using an intravascular dual-modality optical coherence tomography and fluorescence system
Authors: Chen Rouyan , Sandeman Lauren , Nankivell Victoria , Tan Joanne T. M. , Rashidi Mohammad , Psaltis Peter J. , Zheng Gang , Bursill Christina , McLaughlin Robert A. , Li Jiawen
Published: May 2024

Atherosclerosis is the build-up of fatty plaques within blood vessel walls, which can occlude the vessels and cause strokes or heart attacks. It gives rise to both structural and biomolecular changes in the vessel walls. Current single-modality imaging techniques each measure one of these two aspects but fail to provide insight into the combined changes. To address this, our team has developed a dual-modality imaging system which combines optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescence imaging that is optimized for a porphyrin lipid nanoparticle that emits fluorescence and targets atherosclerotic plaques. Atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein (Apo)e-/- mice were fed a high cholesterol diet to promote plaque development in descending thoracic aortas. Following infusion of porphyrin lipid nanoparticles in atherosclerotic mice, the fiber-optic probe was inserted into the aorta for imaging, and we were able to robustly detect a porphyrin lipid-specific fluorescence signal that was not present in saline-infused control mice. We observed that the nanoparticle fluorescence colocalized in areas of CD68+ macrophages. These results demonstrate that our system can detect the fluorescence from nanoparticles, providing complementary biological information to the structural information obtained from simultaneously acquired OCT.
An absorptive coding metasurface for ultra-wideband radar cross-section reduction
Authors: Lin Baoqin , Huang Wenzhun , Guo Jianxin , Wang Zuliang , Si Kaibo , Ye Hongjun
Published: May 2024

In this paper, an absorptive coding metasurface (ACM) is proposed for ultra-wideband radar cross section (RCS) reduction, the design process is presented in detail, in which a lossy polarization conversion metasurface (PCM) is proposed at first. The lossy PCM is an anisotropic resistive structure with both polarization conversion and absorption performances, so that its co-polarization reflection coefficients under u- and v-polarized incidences can be kept at less than − 10 dB in magnitude in the frequency range from 7.5 to 45.2 GHz. Though the magnitude of the cross-polarization reflection coefficient cannot be very small only due to the absorption, its phase will be changed by nearly 180° when the unit-cell structure of the lossy PCM is rotated by 90°. Thus, the lossy PCM can be used as one of the two types of lossy coding elements for an ACM when its unit-cell structure is rotated by 90° or not. Based on the lossy PCM, an ACM is proposed. The simulation and experimental results show that the ACM has an excellent RCS reduction performance under arbitrary polarized incidence, it can achieve effective RCS reduction under normal incidence in the ultra-wide frequency band from 7.4 to 45.5 GHz with a ratio bandwidth (fH/fL) of 6.15:1; moreover, an ultra-wideband RCS reduction can still be achieved when the incident angle is increased to 45°, which indicates that the ACM has good stealth performance under the detection of various radars working in X, Ku, K and Ka bands, it is very practical.
Analytical performance evaluation of the Mindray enzymatic assay for hemoglobin A1c measurement
Authors: Li Mingyang , Wu Xiongjun , Xie Weijie , Zeng Yu , Wang Hui , Chen Han , Xu Anping , Liu Helu , Ji Ling
Published: May 2024

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) plays a crucial role in diabetes management. We aimed to evaluate the analytical performance of a new enzymatic method kit for HbA1c measurement. The performance of the enzymatic method, including precision, accuracy, and linearity, was evaluated. Moreover, the interference effect from conventional interferents, Hb derivatives, Hb variants, and common drugs were assessed. In addition, the agreement of HbA1c results was compared between enzymatic methods, cation-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and immunoassays. The intra-assay, between-assay, and total precision of HbA1c were all lower than 2%. HbA1c showed good linearity within the range of 3.96–20.23%. The enzymatic assay yielded results consistent with the external quality control samples, with a bias of less than ± 6% from the target values. The enzymatic method showed no interference from bilirubin, intralipid, vitamin C, Hb derivatives, common Hb variants, as well as antipyretic analgesics and hypoglycemic drugs. The HbA1c results of the enzymatic assay showed good agreement and accuracy compared to those obtained from the HPLC method and the immunoassay. The enzymatic method kit performed on the BS-600M chemistry analyzer is a reliable and robust method for measuring HbA1c. It is suitable for routine practice in clinical chemistry laboratories.
PDO influenced interdecadal summer precipitation change over East China in mid-18th century
Authors: Chen Gebanruo , Li Xiangyu , Xu Zhiqing , Liu Yong , Zhang Zhongshi , Shao Shiyu , Gao Jing
Published: May 2024

There have been few case studies of the relationship between the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and the East Asian climate before the pre-industrial era with limited anthropogenic impacts. Using the CESM Last Millennium Ensemble (CESM-LME) simulation with reconstruction evidence, we showed that there was an interdecadal transition of the summer precipitation in East China, with the pattern of “southern flooding and northern drought” in the mid-18th century. The interdecadal transition was influenced by PDO, as suggested by both the reconstruction evidence and simulation. Corresponding to the positive PDO phase change, the East Asia-Pacific pattern teleconnection wave train propagated northward and modulated the circulation and precipitation in East China, together with the southward movement of the East Asian westerly jet. The volcanic double or clustered eruptions are thought to have played a crucial role on the shift of the PDO phase and the decadal summer climate change over East China during the mid-18th century. Incorporating volcanic activity in a reasonable manner would likely improve decadal simulations of East Asian climate in the past and predictions in the future.
Uncovering kinesin dynamics in neurites with MINFLUX
Authors: Wirth Jan Otto , Schentarra Eva-Maria , Scheiderer Lukas , Macarrón-Palacios Victor , Tarnawski Miroslaw , Hell Stefan W.
Published: May 2024

Neurons grow neurites of several tens of micrometers in length, necessitating active transport from the cell body by motor proteins. By tracking fluorophores as minimally invasive labels, MINFLUX is able to quantify the motion of those proteins with nanometer/millisecond resolution. Here we study the substeps of a truncated kinesin-1 mutant in primary rat hippocampal neurons, which have so far been mainly observed on polymerized microtubules deposited onto glass coverslips. A gentle fixation protocol largely maintains the structure and surface modifications of the microtubules in the cell. By analyzing the time between the substeps, we identify the ATP-binding state of kinesin-1 and observe the associated rotation of the kinesin-1 head in neurites. We also observed kinesin-1 switching microtubules mid-walk, highlighting the potential of MINFLUX to study the details of active cellular transport.
TRP14 is the rate-limiting enzyme for intracellular cystine reduction and regulates proteome cysteinylation
Authors: Martí-Andrés Pablo , Finamor Isabela , Torres-Cuevas Isabel , Pérez Salvador , Rius-Pérez Sergio , Colino-Lage Hildegard , Guerrero-Gómez David , Morato Esperanza , Marina Anabel , Michalska Patrycja , León Rafael , Cheng Qing , Jurányi Eszter Petra , Borbényi-Galambos Klaudia , Millán Iván , Nagy Péter , Miranda-Vizuete Antonio , Schmidt Edward E , Martínez-Ruiz Antonio , Arnér Elias SJ , Sastre Juan
Published: May 2024

It has remained unknown how cells reduce cystine taken up from the extracellular space, which is a required step for further utilization of cysteine in key processes such as protein or glutathione synthesis. Here, we show that the thioredoxin-related protein of 14 kDa (TRP14, encoded by TXNDC17) is the rate-limiting enzyme for intracellular cystine reduction. When TRP14 is genetically knocked out, cysteine synthesis through the transsulfuration pathway becomes the major source of cysteine in human cells, and knockout of both pathways becomes lethal in C. elegans subjected to proteotoxic stress. TRP14 can also reduce cysteinyl moieties on proteins, rescuing their activities as here shown with cysteinylated peroxiredoxin 2. Txndc17 knockout mice were, surprisingly, protected in an acute pancreatitis model, concomitant with activation of Nrf2-driven antioxidant pathways and upregulation of transsulfuration. We conclude that TRP14 is the evolutionarily conserved enzyme principally responsible for intracellular cystine reduction in C. elegans, mice, and humans.
Active targeted delivery of theranostic thermo/pH dual-responsive magnetic Janus nanoparticles functionalized with folic acid/fluorescein ligands for enhanced DOX combination therapy of rat glioblastoma
Authors: Ali Bahareh Haji , Khoee Sepideh , Mafakheri Fariba , Sadri Elahe , Mahabadi Vahid Pirhajati , Karimi Mohammad Reza , Shirvalilou Sakine , Khoei Samideh
Published: May 2024

Doxorubicin loaded magnetic Janus nanoparticles coated with PCL and chitosan modified with folic acid and fluorescein were able to pass the blood brain-barrier via the external magnetic field and folic acid ligand–receptor interaction.
Nickel-catalyzed hydrodefluorination/deuterodefluorination of CF3-alkenes with formic acid
Authors: Yang Peng , Yu Haiping , Zhai Runze , Zhou Jianrong Steve , Tang Bo
Published: May 2024

Reductive defluorination of β-CF3-cinnamates to gem-difluoroalkenes is catalyzed by a nickel hydride intermediate using formic acid. The reaction can produce both fluorine and deuterium in one operation when deuterated formic acid is used.
Selective monoborylation of methane by metal–organic framework confined mononuclear pyridylimine-iridium(i) hydride
Authors: Kalita Rahul , Chauhan Manav , Gupta Poorvi , Begum Wahida , Thadhani Chhaya , Ghosh Biplab , Balendra  , Bisht Himani , Manna Kuntal
Published: May 2024

The metal–organic framework confined mononuclear pyridylimine-ligated iridium(i)-hydride is an active catalyst for chemoselective monoborylation of methane using bis(pinacolato)diboron to afford methyl boronic acid pinacol ester in 98% yield.
Preferential segregation of gold at the symmetrical tilt grain boundaries of platinum: an atomic-scale quantitative understanding
Authors: Zhang Xianxian , Tang Jianfeng , Zhang Xingming , Wang Liang , Yuan Dingwang , Deng Huiqiu , Deng Lei
Published: May 2024

The correlation between the compositions of segregation energy and local atomic structures.
Shortwave infrared polymethine dyes for bioimaging: ultrafast relaxation dynamics and excited-state decay pathways
Authors: Obloy Laura M. , Jockusch Steffen , Tarnovsky Alexander N.
Published: May 2024

Femtosecond transient absorption and photophysical studies reveal the photoinduced dynamics in short-wavelength infrared polymethine dyes for bioimaging applications.
Correction: Recent advances in the chemistry of isolable carbene analogues with group 13–15 elements
Authors: He Mian , Hu Chaopeng , Wei Rui , Wang Xin-Feng , Liu Liu Leo
Published: May 2024

Correction for ‘Recent advances in the chemistry of isolable carbene analogues with group 13–15 elements’ by Mian He et al., Chem. Soc. Rev., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3CS00784G.
Diffusion mechanisms and preferential dynamics of promoter molecules in ZSM-5 zeolite
Authors: Dunn Josh , Crossley-Lewis Joe , McCluskey Andrew R. , Jackson Fiona , Buda Corneliu , Sunley Glenn J. , Mulholland Adrian J. , Allan Neil L.
Published: May 2024

Molecular 3-point turns are seen in molecular dynamics simulations of methanol and promoters of the CH3OH to CH3OCH3 reaction. The more catalytically active aromatic aldehydes limit methanol diffusion less than other promoters.
A Bis(silylene)silole – synthesis, properties and reactivity
Authors: Liu Chenghuan , Schmidtmann Marc , Müller Thomas
Published: May 2024

The combination of a Si(ii)–Si(iv)–Si(ii) unit with a silole ring leads to a significant bathochromic shift in its UV-spectra.
Introduction to the Dalton Transactions themed collection: recent progress and perspectives on spin transition compounds
Authors: Hayami Shinya , Weber Birgit , Halcrow Malcolm
Published: May 2024

Guest editors Shinya Hayami, Birgit Weber and Malcolm Halcrow introduce the Dalton Transactions themed collection on spin transitions.
A floatable photocatalyst to synergistically promote CO2 reduction and water oxidation by creating oriented charge separation across a tri-phase interface
Authors: Xie Yangen , Wang Min , Huang Qiang , Huang Qing , Sheng Bo , Song Wenjing , Sheng Hua , Zhao Jincai
Published: May 2024

By coupling oriented charge separation with a tri-phase interface, optimal reaction conditions for the two half-reactions of artificial photosynthesis are created. Thus, the efficiency of the two half-reactions is synergistically promoted.
Emerging investigator series: secondary organic aerosol formation from photooxidation of acyclic terpenes in an oxidation flow reactor
Authors: Gu Shan , Khalaj Farzaneh , Perraud Veronique , Faiola Celia L.
Published: May 2024

Organic aerosol formed from ocimene photooxidation has more oligomers compared to organic aerosol formed from other acyclic terpene precursors.
Heteroatom Lewis acid zeolites: synthesis, characterization and application in the conversion of biomass-derived oxygenates
Authors: Yang Zijun , Ge Qingfeng , Zhu Xinli
Published: May 2024

This review summarizes recent advances in the synthesis, characterization and application of heteroatom (Ti, Zr, Sn, and Hf) Lewis acid zeolites in the conversion of biomass-derived oxygenates.
Turning Pd-catalysed direct C–H arylation of thiophene derivatives into green : industrial wastewater as an effective reaction medium
Authors: Nejrotti Stefano , Centrella Barbara , Gallo Davide , Barolo Claudia , Bonomo Matteo
Published: May 2024

The Pd-catalysed direct C–H arylation of thiophene derivatives, appealing for technological application, is performed under green conditions using low-purity grade industrial waste water as the sole reaction medium.
Thermoelectric materials for space explorations
Authors: Palaporn Dulyawich , Tanusilp Sora-at , Sun Yifan , Pinitsoontorn Supree , Kurosaki Ken
Published: May 2024

This review explores the development of thermoelectric materials for space applications, specifically in radioisotope thermoelectric generators. It details the selection criteria for these materials and methods to enhance their performance.
Study of self-assembly of mixed-ligand metal–organic cages by high-resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Tong Kang , Jia Jia , Huang Rongfu , Luo Jin
Published: May 2024

In this study, we scrutinized the self-assembly dynamics of mixed-ligand MOCs employing HR-MS.
Titania-mediated stabilization of fluorescent dye encapsulation in mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Spitzmüller Laura , Berson Jonathan , Nitschke Fabian , Kohl Thomas , Schimmel Thomas
Published: May 2024

A robust and stable encapsulation method for mesoporous silica nanoparticles, protecting the payload, preventing leakage and stabilizing the nanoparticles.
Halide-free pyridinium base binary organocatalyst for the cycloaddition of carbon dioxide to epoxides
Authors: Yuan Xin , Liu Ziqi , Li Zhenjiang , Shi Yanqi , Yang Baolin , Zou Xin , Hu Yongzhu , Li Chunyu , Li Sha , Guo Kai
Published: May 2024

An organocatalyst composed of a common organic base and hydroxypyridine is a new type of H-bond donor catalyst efficient in the cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides.
Advancements in mercury detection using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and ion-imprinted polymers (IIPs): a review
Authors: Tukur Frank , Tukur Panesun , Hunyadi Murph Simona E. , Wei Jianjun
Published: May 2024

A comprehensive review on SERS and imprinted polymer platforms in mercury detection, and a perspective on integrating the two for an improved analytical method.
Designing functionalized nanodiamonds with hyaluronic acid–phospholipid conjugates for enhanced cancer cell targeting and fluorescence imaging capabilities
Authors: Sturari Sofia , Andreana Ilaria , Aprà Pietro , Bincoletto Valeria , Kopecka Joanna , Mino Lorenzo , Zurletti Beatrice , Stella Barbara , Riganti Chiara , Arpicco Silvia , Picollo Federico
Published: May 2024

Novel approach for the functionalization of nanodiamonds with Hyaluronic Acid is proposed, utilizing non-covalent anchoring. NDs exhibit improved properties including increased internalization in human adenocarcinoma cells overexpressing CD44 receptor.
Unveiling brain disorders using liquid biopsy and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ranasinghe Jeewan C. , Wang Ziyang , Huang Shengxi
Published: May 2024

Brain disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), present significant challenges in early diagnosis and intervention.
BODIPY directed one-dimensional self-assembly of gold nanorods
Authors: Hemant  , Rahman Atikur , Sharma Priyanka , Shanavas Asifkhan , Neelakandan Prakash P.
Published: May 2024

Self-assembly of gold nanorods is facilitated by plasmon–molecule interactions between gold and BODIPY, and the chemical structure of BODIPY plays a crucial role in forming a linear chain.
A dual-responsive polyurethane nanocarrier for drug release triggered by intracellular GSH and NQO1 enzyme
Authors: Yang Shuai , Xie Jinhai , Wang Dongdong , Tian Shuangyu , Di Yaodong , Yan Lesan
Published: May 2024

A dual-responsive polyurethane nanocarrier was developed to achieve specific and efficient drug release triggered by elevated glutathione levels and the NQO1 enzyme unique to tumor sites.
Design, synthesis, and anti-inflammatory activity of indole-2-formamide benzimidazole[2,1-b]thiazole derivatives
Authors: Lin Hai-Feng , Jiang Yu-Cai , Chen Zhi-Wei , Zheng Lin-Lin
Published: May 2024

Synthesis of indole-2-formamide benzimidazole[2,1-b]thiazole compounds and their activity tests for anti-inflammatory activity and iron death are reported.
Site-targeted decoration of palladium nanocrystals for catalytic CH4 removal in lean-burn exhaust
Authors: Hihara Takashi , Nagata Makoto , Fujita Takeshi , Abe Hideki
Published: May 2024

Site-targeted decoration of catalytic nanocrystals is essential for maximizing performance with minimal materials use.
Optically compatible infrared camouflage performance of ITO ink
Authors: Feifei Xiao , Weidong Xu , Heng Liu , Hao Li , Haibao Yu , Bentian Hao
Published: May 2024

Doping In2O3 with Sn atoms can obtain ITO. When the doping rate of Sn atoms is 9.375%, ITO has high reflectivity in the infrared band, and high transmittance in the visible light band, which can realize optically compatible infrared camouflage.
Direct large-scale synthesis of water-soluble and biocompatible upconversion nanoparticles for in vivo imaging
Authors: Wang Siqi , Liang Haiyan , Yang Zihao , Wang Zhijie , Yang Biao , Lu Chichong
Published: May 2024

Deep tissues can be optically imaged using near-infrared windows without radiation hazard.
Insights into performances of magnetic and bio-based doped-nanohydroxyapatites as water decontamination agents
Authors: Tummino Maria Laura , Magnacca Giuliana , Rigoletto Monica , Malandrino Mery , Vineis Claudia , Laurenti Enzo
Published: May 2024

Nanohydroxyapatites functionalized with iron and bio-based substances extracted from green compost show good adsorption and antimicrobial properties.
Development of a solid-compatible continuous flow reactor for the paraformaldehyde slurry mediated α-hydroxymethylation of methyl vinyl ketone
Authors: Vandekerckhove Bavo , Van Coillie Lise , Metten Bert , Heugebaert Thomas S. A. , Stevens Christian V.
Published: May 2024

α-Hydroxymethylation reactions often entail safety precautions concerning formaldehyde gas. A paraformaldehyde slurry within a solid-compatible continuous flow setup can now be used with a reduced reaction time and increased productivity.
Engineering the electronic structure of sub-nanometric Ru clusters via Pt single-atom modification for highly efficient electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Song Yuzhuang , Zhang Yaowen , Gao Wenya , Yu Chengcheng , Xing Jun , Liu Kang , Ma Dingxuan
Published: May 2024

We report herein an environmentally friendly and pyrolysis-free synthesis strategy to prepare an efficient supported catalyst with Pt single-atom modified sub-nanometric Ru clusters for all-pH HER.
Fluid jets and polar domains, on the relationship between electromechanical instability and topology in ferroelectric nematic liquid crystal droplets
Authors: Marni Stefano , Caimi Federico , Barboza Raouf , Clark Noel , Bellini Tommaso , Lucchetti Liana
Published: May 2024

Ferroelectric nematic droplets confined between two ferroelectric substrates separated by a thin gap provide easy access to the topology and to its relationship with the electromechanical instability generated by substrates charging.
Topotactic N-doped carbon for efficient oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Yang Miaosen , Zhang Tian , Wang Danni , Chang Yingna , Zhang Guoxin
Published: May 2024

A topotactic molecular doping strategy is developed via in situ coupling of dechlorinated carbon with ringed heterocyclic molecules under mild conditions.
Isomeric modulation of thermally activated delayed fluorescence in dibenzo[a,c]phenazine-based (deep) red emitters
Authors: Brebels Sonny , Cardeynaels Tom , Jackers Louis , Kuila Suman , Penxten Huguette , Salthouse Rebecca J. , Danos Andrew , Monkman Andrew P. , Champagne Benoît , Maes Wouter
Published: May 2024

Changing the substitution position of a TPA donor around the dibenzophenazine acceptor leads to large changes in emission colour, efficiency, and delayed emission. The best TADF is found using the unconventional and underexplored 4-position.
Unravelling the photobehavior of a 2,1,3-benzothiadiazole-based HOF and its molecular units: experimental and theoretical insights into their spectroscopic properties in solution and in the solid state
Authors: de la Hoz Tomás Mario , Organero Juan Ángel , di Nunzio Maria Rosaria , Hashimoto Taito , Hisaki Ichiro , Douhal Abderrazzak
Published: May 2024

Revealing the photobehaviour of a new BTD-based HOF shows the occurrence of intramolecular charge-transfer and intermolecular proton-transfer photoevents leading to different emission spectra and lifetimes when compared to the molecular units.
Additive manufacturing of highly conductive carbon nanotube architectures towards carbon-based flexible thermoelectric generators
Authors: Mytafides Christos K. , Wright William J. , Gustinvil Raden , Tzounis Lazaros , Karalis George , Paipetis Alkiviadis S. , Celik Emrah
Published: May 2024

SWCNT/epoxy-based p-type 3D-printed TE material with power factor 102 μW mK−2. SWCNT/epoxy-based n-type 3D-printed TE material with power factor 75 μW mK−2. Open circuit voltage of 3D-CTEG: VOC = 13.6 mV. Power output of 3D-CTEG: Pmax = 4.1 μW.
The Effects of Interactive Context on Acoustic Characteristics of Speech in People With Dysarthria: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Krajewski Elizabeth , Lee Jimin , Viswanathan Navin , Olmstead Anne , Simmons Zachary
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

The current study compared temporal and spectral acoustic contrast between vowel segments produced by speakers with dysarthria across three speech tasks—interactive, solo habitual, and solo clear.

Method:

Nine speakers with dysarthria secondary to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis participated in the study. Each speaker was paired with a typical interlocutor over videoconferencing software. The speakers produced the vowels /i, ɪ, ɛ, æ/ in /h/−vowel−/d/ words. For the solo tasks, speakers read the stimuli aloud in both their habitual and clear speaking styles. For the interactive task, speakers produced a target stimulus for their interlocutor to select among the four possibilities. We measured the duration difference between long and short vowels, as well as the F1/F2 Euclidean distance between adjacent vowels, and also determined how well the vowels could be classified based on their acoustic characteristics.

Results:

Temporal contrast between long and short vowels was higher in the interactive task than in both solo tasks. Spectral distance between adjacent vowel pairs was also higher for some pairs in the interactive task than the habitual speech task. Finally, vowel classification accuracy was highest in the interactive task.

Conclusions:

Overall, we found evidence that individuals with dysarthria produced vowels with greater acoustic contrast in structured interactions than they did in solo tasks. Furthermore, the speech adjustments they made to the vowel segments differed from those observed in solo speech.