bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cu–Sn System: A Comprehensive Review of the Crystal Structures of its Stable and Metastable Phases
Authors: Leineweber Andreas
Published: June 2023

The present works assesses the knowledge concerning the crystal structures of phases in the Cu–Sn system having their high relevance due to their occurrence in bronze alloys and soldered systems. The crystal structures of the terminal solid solution phases α-Cu and β-Sn and of the stable main intermediate phases β, γ, ε-Cu3Sn, δ-Cu41Sn11, ζ-Cu10Sn3, η-Cu6Sn5 and η′-Cu6Sn5 and some metastable phases appear to be well established in the literature, but details can be intriguing. This paper attempts to review apparently or truly contradictory structure models derived from experimental diffraction data for the different phases, revealing limiting knowledge in some cases. These results are also analyzed regarding the results of first-principles calculations making use of various model structures. The review is also used to highlight exemplarily problems, which can be experienced upon widespread, “routine” means of phase identification, in particular x-ray diffraction (on polycrystalline specimens) and electron backscatter diffraction.
Comparative study of interaction energies between αIIbβ3 integrin and the peptidic, peptidomimetic and non-peptidic ligands by quantum mechanics FMO-PIEDA calculations
Authors: Kóňa Juraj
Published: June 2023

Integrins belong to a family of cell adhesion receptors. To better understand an adhesion mechanism of integrins, fragmented molecular orbital (FMO) method with pair interaction energy decomposition analysis (PIEDA) was applied for integrin:ligand complexes. Interaction energies were evaluated between the amino acid residues including Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions at ligand-binding site of αIIbβ3 integrin and two peptide chains with the Ala-Gly-Asp (AGD)- and the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-binding motifs, a cyclic peptide (eptifibatide), peptidomimetic ligands (tirofiban and L-739758) and poly(l-lactic acid) chain (PLA). The results indicate that Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions together with Asp224A, Asn215B, Asp159A and Lys125B of αIIbβ3 are the most important residues for a binding of the peptidic ligands while for the peptidomimetic ligands and PLA, interactions with Ca2+ ions are less significant than those with amino acid residues of αIIbβ3. For all complexes, a dominant part of interaction energy comes from electrostatic interactions. New developed antagonists of αIIbβ3 should mimic not only the interactions of the RGD motif but also the interactions of the backbone of a longer peptidic sequence (RGDV or AGDV) with the focus on the interactions of the antagonists with the ADMIDAS Ca2+ ion. An interaction pattern predicted for PLA was compared with the native peptidic ligands.
Examining assisted suicide and euthanasia through the lens of healthcare quality
Authors: Colleran Miriam , Doherty Anne M.
Published: June 2023

Many people on both sides of the debate to legalise physician-hastened death are motivated by compassion and a desire to provide better end of life care for others. Assisted dying may include euthanasia and/or assisted suicide (EAS). It is legal in some jurisdictions and under debate in others including Ireland. EAS is a complex, sensitive and can be an emotive issue; detailed and nuanced examination of the subject is needed. To enhance this discussion, we examine EAS through the lens of quality. In examining EAS from this stance, we consider the action, along with the outcomes, the impact of the outcomes from other jurisdictions with legalised EAS, alongside the risks and the balancing measures used, in addition to considering the intervention itself. Progressive expansion of eligibility for EAS has occurred over time in the Netherlands, Belgium and Canada. Given the complexity of assessing coercion, the risks to persons in vulnerable groups (including older persons, persons with mental health conditions and persons with disabilities), the progressive expansion of eligibility for EAS, the lack of safety and the undermining of suicide prevention strategies, the current law is most protective of persons in vulnerable groups in the interest of social justice. Person-centred and compassionate care needs be prioritised with greater access and equitable access to primary and specialist palliative care and mental health care for persons with incurable and terminal illnesses and support for caregivers allowing patients to die naturally with optimised symptom control.
Enhanced Vulnerability of Asylum Seekers in Times of Crisis
Authors: Phillips Stephen
Published: June 2023

This article examines the impact of law and policy changes enacted in times of crisis on asylum seekers, and considers the extent to which considerations of vulnerability have played a part in the various approaches of governments. What emerges is a shift towards further exclusion, and a widening divide between how states approach citizens versus others. The result is enhanced vulnerability, and an environment in which the utility of the vulnerability concept to provide the necessary levels of support and protection is tested. By looking at how vulnerability is used by states, and contrasting this use with how the concept is often used by other community actors, the article asks what role the concept of vulnerability might play in the effects of crises on vulnerable groups and the priorities and actions of states.
Working with Natural Processes: Restoring a Mining Landscape in the High Arctic, Svalbard, Norway
Authors: Erikstad Lars , Hagen Dagmar , Simensen Trond
Published: June 2023

The Svea coal mines in Svalbard have been closed, and the area is under restoration. The goal of the landscape restoration was to enable dynamic ecological and geomorphological processes by removing roads, housing, industrial facilities, airports, landfills, and quarries that once dominated the area. Cultural heritage features, such as pre-1946 buildings, structures, and mining traces, have been preserved, while the rest of the landscape has been restored to a near-natural state. The focus has been restoring geodiversity in this arctic environment, where biotic processes are slow. Geomorphological processes such as glacial, slope, fluvial, coastal, and permafrost processes dominate and give the landscape its geological character. The objective of the restoration is not merely to re-create the landscape’s previous appearance but rather to ensure that natural processes can function as they did in the past, contributing to the ongoing development and evolution of all restored land surfaces. As of 2023, most of the area has already been restored. In areas with rapid geomorphological processes, the land will soon be dominated by these processes. Revegetation is one of the major ecological processes the restoration seeks to facilitate. Revegetation is a slow process in arctic environments, and it will take many decades before vegetation covers restored bare surfaces. The project forms a valuable baseline for studying and discussing geomorphology, landscape dynamics, geodiversity, biodiversity, and ecology for nature management and landscape restoration.
Regularization of limited memory quasi-Newton methods for large-scale nonconvex minimization
Authors: Kanzow Christian , Steck Daniel
Published: June 2023

This paper deals with regularized Newton methods, a flexible class of unconstrained optimization algorithms that is competitive with line search and trust region methods and potentially combines attractive elements of both. The particular focus is on combining regularization with limited memory quasi-Newton methods by exploiting the special structure of limited memory algorithms. Global convergence of regularization methods is shown under mild assumptions and the details of regularized limited memory quasi-Newton updates are discussed including their compact representations. Numerical results using all large-scale test problems from the CUTEst collection indicate that our regularized version of L-BFGS is competitive with state-of-the-art line search and trust-region L-BFGS algorithms and previous attempts at combining L-BFGS with regularization, while potentially outperforming some of them, especially when nonmonotonicity is involved.
Technological advances in the use of viral and non-viral vectors for delivering genetic and non-genetic cargos for cancer therapy
Authors: Dogbey Dennis Makafui , Torres Valeria Esperanza Sandoval , Fajemisin Emmanuel , Mpondo Liyabona , Ngwenya Takunda , Akinrinmade Olusiji Alex , Perriman Adam W. , Barth Stefan
Published: June 2023

The burden of cancer is increasing globally. Several challenges facing its mainstream treatment approaches have formed the basis for the development of targeted delivery systems to carry and distribute anti-cancer payloads to their defined targets. This site-specific delivery of drug molecules and gene payloads to selectively target druggable biomarkers aimed at inducing cell death while sparing normal cells is the principal goal for cancer therapy. An important advantage of a delivery vector either viral or non-viral is the cumulative ability to penetrate the haphazardly arranged and immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment of solid tumours and or withstand antibody-mediated immune response. Biotechnological approaches incorporating rational protein engineering for the development of targeted delivery systems which may serve as vehicles for packaging and distribution of anti-cancer agents to selectively target and kill cancer cells are highly desired. Over the years, these chemically and genetically modified delivery systems have aimed at distribution and selective accumulation of drug molecules at receptor sites resulting in constant maintenance of high drug bioavailability for effective anti-tumour activity. In this review, we highlighted the state-of-the art viral and non-viral drug and gene delivery systems and those under developments focusing on cancer therapy.

Graphical Abstract
A classification of harmonic weak Maaß forms of half-integral weight
Authors: Alfes-Neumann Claudia , Raum Martin
Published: June 2023

We classify Harish-Chandra modules generated by the pullback to the metaplectic group of harmonic weak Maaß forms with exponential growth allowed at the cusps. This extends work by Schulze-Pillot and parallels recent work by Bringmann–Kudla, who investigated the case of integral weights. We realize each of our cases via a regularized theta lift of an integral weight harmonic weak Maaß form. Harish-Chandra modules in both integral and half-integral weight that occur need not be irreducible. Therefore, our display of the role that the theta lifting takes in this picture, we hope, contributes to an initial understanding of a theta correspondence for extensions of Harish-Chandra modules.
On Our Moral Entanglements with Wild Animals
Authors: O’Brien Gary David
Published: June 2023

In Just Fodder, Milburn argues for a relational account of our duties to animals. Following Clare Palmer, he argues that, though all animals have negative rights that we have a duty not to violate, we only gain positive obligations towards animals in the contexts of our relationships with them, which can be personal or political. He argues that human beings have collective positive duties towards domesticated animals, in virtue of the kind of relationship between us established by domestication. However, when it comes to wild animals, he argues that we have no such morally relevant relationships, and so we have only negative duties towards them. I argue that throughout history and even prehistory human beings have morally entangled themselves with wild animals sufficiently that we may in fact have collective positive duties towards many, if not all, wild animals.
General method for state-space modeling and nonlinear control of single-phase cascaded multilevel inverters with LCL coupling
Authors: Miralilu Hassan Manafi , Salimi Mahdi , Soltani Jafar , Akbarimajd Adel
Published: June 2023

Due to the nonlinear behavior of grid-connected cascaded multilevel inverters (GCCMI), the use of nonlinear controllers can guarantee system stability over a wide range of operation. Therefore, state-space modeling is required to design nonlinear controllers. In this manuscript, a comprehensive method is proposed for the general state-space modeling of an n-level GCCMI with LCL coupling. To validate the accuracy of obtained state-space model, an experimental setup of a cascaded multilevel inverter including two H-bridges has been implemented. The outputs of the state-space model are compared with the simulation and experimental results of the GCCMI. This shows that the proposed model is compatible with a real closed-loop system. The simulations were performed using EMTDC/PSCAD software. In the following, the designed general model is used to develop a nonlinear controller based on the Lyapunov stability criteria for a multilevel shunt active power filter (SAPF). Results show that the designed controller is stable and robust in a wide range of operating point changes.
The Graeco-Arabic Translation Movement
Authors: Aly El-Hussein A Y
Published: June 2023

To encompass the history of Arabic practice of translation, this Element re-defines translation as combination, a process of meaning-remaking that synthesizes multi reality. The Arabic translators of the Middle Ages did not simply find an equivalent to the source text but combined its meaning with their own knowledge and experience. Thus, part of translating a text was to add new thought to it. It implies a complex process that Homi Bhabha calls “cultural hybridity,” in which the target text combines knowledge of the source text with knowledge from the target culture, and the source text is different from the target text “without assumed or imposed hierarchy.” Arabic translations were a cultural hybridity because the translators added new thought to their target texts, and because saw their language as equal to the Greek.
Categorization of simulated diagnostic situations and the salience of diagnostic information
Authors: Machts Nils , Chernikova Olga , Jansen Thorben , Weidenbusch Marc , Fischer Frank , Möller Jens
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Simulated diagnostic situations function as learning environments and research tools to deepen the understanding of diagnostic processes. In this conceptual paper, we present a framework that fulfils two purposes. First, we categorize simulations of diagnostic situations using six descriptive components: physical environment, social embeddedness, diagnostic tasks, activities, information, and decisions. Second, we discriminate the salience of diagnostic information into four facets: access, prominence, simplicity, and clarity. These facets determine the likelihood that participants in a simulation will perceive and process relevant diagnostic information toward correct or accurate diagnostic decisions. We use one simulation to explain these components and facets in more detail. With this systematic conceptualization, we intend to deepen the understanding of how and why simulations work in creating authentic diagnostic situations, measuring diagnostic competencies, and providing learning environments for the facilitation of these competencies in higher education.
Linking Geodynamic Models of Basalt Segregation in Mantle Plumes to the X‐Discontinuity Observed Beneath Hotspots
Authors: Monaco Martina , Dannberg Juliane , Gassmoeller Rene , Pugh Stephen
Published: June 2023

Mantle plumes are thought to recycle material from the Earth's deep interior. One constraint on the nature and quantity of this recycled material comes from the observation of seismic discontinuities. The detection of the X‐discontinuity beneath Hawaii, interpreted as the coesite‐stishovite transition, requires the presence of at least 40% basalt. However, previous geodynamic models have predicted that plumes cannot carry more than 15%–20% of high‐density basaltic material. We propose this contradiction can be resolved by taking into account the length scale of chemical heterogeneities. While previous modeling studies assumed mechanical mixing on length scales smaller than the model resolution, we here model basaltic heterogeneities with length scales of 30–40 km, allowing for their segregation relative to the pyrolitic background plume material. Our models show that larger basalt fractions than previously thought possible—exceeding 40%—can temporarily accumulate within plumes at the depth of the X‐discontinuity. Two key mechanisms facilitate this process: (a) The random distribution of basaltic heterogeneities induces large temporal variations in the basalt fraction with cyclical highs and lows. (b) The high density contrast between basalt and pyrolite below the coesite‐stishovite transition causes ponding and accumulation of basalt within the rising plume at that depth. Because the statistical effect dominates, large values of 35%–40% basalt are only sustained temporarily. These results further constrain the chemical composition of the Hawaiian plume. Beyond that, they provide a geodynamic mechanism that explains the seismologic detection of the X‐discontinuity and highlights how recycled material is carried toward the surface.
Limited Northward Expansion of the Tibetan Plateau in the Late Cenozoic: Insights From the Cherchen Fault in the Southeastern Tarim Basin
Authors: Tian Hefeng , Chen Hanlin , Cheng Xiaogan , Wu Lei , Lin Xiubin , Gao Shibao , Li Feng , Xu Xi , Yin Qihang
Published: June 2023

The northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau is defined by the left‐lateral Altyn Tagh fault. It remains unclear whether the Cenozoic deformation related to the India‐Asia collision has remained stationary along the Altyn Tagh fault or propagated northward into the southeastern Tarim Basin. The Cenozoic Cherchen fault is located in the southeastern Tarim Basin, ∼90–120 km north of the Altyn Tagh fault, and thus, may play a critical role in addressing this issue. Here, we used a densely‐spaced two‐dimensional seismic reflection survey to investigate the geometry and kinematics of the Cherchen fault and understand its role in the expansion of the northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. Our seismic study shows that the Cenozoic Cherchen fault is a high‐angle left‐lateral transpressional fault. Kinematic analysis of the Cherchen fault suggests that a restraining bend structure has formed along its central segment. Stratigraphic records suggest that the Cherchen fault initiated in the Paleozoic and reactivated during the middle Miocene (ca. 17–15.7 Ma). We infer that the dip‐slip and strike‐slip rates of the Cherchen fault are ∼0.09 mm/a and ∼1.66 mm/a, respectively. A regional cross section reveals that the northward expansion of the plateau is ongoing, but the range is limited to ∼90–120 km. We interpret that middle Miocene tectonic activity throughout the region was also concentrated along the northern plateau margin, defined by both northeast‐directed crustal shortening and northward expansion of the plateau.
Complex Drivers of Riparian Soil Oxygen Variability Revealed Using Self‐Organizing Maps
Authors: Lancellotti Brittany V. , Underwood Kristen L. , Perdrial Julia N. , Schroth Andrew W. , Roy Eric D. , Adair Carol E.
Published: June 2023

Oxygen (O2) regulates soil reduction‐oxidation processes and therefore modulates biogeochemical cycles. The difficulties associated with accurately characterizing soil O2 variability have prompted the use of soil moisture as a proxy for O2, as O2 diffusion into soil water is much slower than in soil air. The use of soil moisture alone as a proxy measurement for O2 could result in inaccurate O2 estimations. For example, O2 may remain high during cool months when soil respiration rates are low. We analyzed high‐frequency sensor data (e.g., soil moisture, CO2, gas‐phase soil pore O2) with a machine learning technique, the Self‐Organizing Map, to pinpoint suites of soil conditions associated with contrasting O2 regimes. At two riparian sites in northern Vermont, we found that O2 levels varied seasonally, and with soil moisture. For example, 47% of low O2 levels were associated with wet and cool soil conditions, whereas 32% were associated with dry and warm conditions. Contrastingly, the majority (62%) of high O2 conditions occurred under dry and warm conditions. High soil moisture levels did not always lead to low O2, as 38% of high O2 values occurred under wet and cool conditions. Our results highlight challenges with predicting soil O2 solely based on water content, as variable combinations of soil and hydrologic conditions can complicate the relationship between water content and O2. This indicates that process‐based ecosystem and denitrification models that rely solely on soil moisture to estimate O2 may need to incorporate other site and climate‐specific drivers to accurately predict soil O2.
Earth Is Noisy. Why Should Its Data Be Silent?
Authors: Karlstrom Leif , Holtzman Ben , Barth Anna , Crozier Josh , Pat� Arthur
Published: June 2023

Combining visual and sonic representations of data can make science more accessible and help reveal subtle details. The recent decade-long eruption of Hawaii’s Kīlauea Volcano offers a prime example.
Timing and Provenance of Volcanic Fluxes Around the Permian‐Triassic Boundary Mass Extinction in South China: U‐Pb Zircon Geochronology, Volcanic Ash Geochemistry and Mercury Isotopes
Authors: Edward Oluwaseun , Paul André Navin , Bucher Hugo , Vérard Christian , Adatte Thierry , Sonke Jeroen E. , Schaltegger Urs , Vennemann Torsten
Published: June 2023

Anomalous mercury (Hg) contents recorded near the Permian‐Triassic boundary (PTB) are often linked to Siberian Traps Large Igneous Province (STLIP) volcanism and the Permian‐Triassic boundary mass extinction (PTBME). However, mounting evidence indicates that the relation between STLIP volcanism and Hg “anomalies” is not straightforward. This study focuses on the timing and provenance of volcanic fluxes around the PTBME in South China. We constrain carbon isotope (δ13C) and Hg concentration and isotope records by utilizing high‐precision U‐Pb zircon ages from two expanded deep‐water marine sections spanning the Late Permian to Early Triassic in the Nanpanjiang Basin. Results reveal two episodes of Hg enrichment. The oldest episode predates the onset of a large negative δ13C excursion, which is documented to be older than 252.07 ± 0.130 Ma. The second episode occurred between 251.822 ± 0.060 and 251.589 ± 0.062 Ma, coinciding with the nadir of the δ13C excursion. Volcanic ash geochemistry and Hg isotope compositions suggest that mercury was mainly sourced from subduction‐related volcanic arc magmatism in the Tethys region, which peaked between 251.668 ± 0.079 and 251.589 ± 0.052 Ma. These results are compatible with suggestions that regional arc volcanism contributed to the causes of the PTBME in South China and provide evidence that Hg anomalies close to the PTB are not a reliable stratigraphic marker for the PTB extinction event. This study demonstrates that relations between volcanism, environmental perturbations and mass extinction during the Permian‐Triassic transition are better resolved with the aid of high‐precision U‐Pb zircon ages.
Thank You to Our 2022 Peer Reviewers
Authors: Beal Lisa M. , Chafik Léon , Fawcett Sarah , Friedrichs Marjorie A. M. , Gnanaseelan Chellappan , Goodkin Nathalie F. , Li Yuanlong , Mulligan Ryan P. , Nagai Takeyoshi , O’Callaghan Joanne (Joe) , Power Hannah E. , von Schuckmann Karina , Sherwood Christopher , Singh Arvind , Umlauf Lars , Wahlin Anna , Xu Fanghua , Zhou Lei
Published: June 2023

Plain Language Summary

Thank you to the 1528 reviewers who provided 2647 reviews during 2022 to ensure the high quality and integrity of JGR‐Oceans manuscripts.
Dicoumarol is an effective post-exposure prophylactic for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection in human airway epithelium
Authors: Peng Yang , Chen Shi-ying , Wang Zhao-ni , Zhou Zi-qing , Sun Jing , Zhang Gui-an , Li Jia , Wang Lei , Zhao Jin-cun , Tang Xiao Xiao , Wang De-Yun , Zhong Nan-shan
Published: June 2023

Repurposing existing drugs to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection in airway epithelial cells (AECs) is a quick way to find novel treatments for COVID-19. Computational screening has found dicoumarol (DCM), a natural anticoagulant, to be a potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor, but its inhibitory effects and possible working mechanisms remain unknown. Using air-liquid interface culture of primary human AECs, we demonstrated that DCM has potent antiviral activity against the infection of multiple Omicron variants (including BA.1, BQ.1 and XBB.1). Time-of-addition and drug withdrawal assays revealed that early treatment (continuously incubated after viral absorption) of DCM could markedly inhibit Omicron replication in AECs, but DCM did not affect the absorption, exocytosis and spread of viruses or directly eliminate viruses. Mechanistically, we performed single-cell sequencing analysis (a database of 77,969 cells from different airway locations from 10 healthy volunteers) and immunofluorescence staining, and showed that the expression of NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), one of the known DCM targets, was predominantly localised in ciliated AECs. We further found that the NQO1 expression level was positively correlated with both the disease severity of COVID-19 patients and virus copy levels in cultured AECs. In addition, DCM treatment downregulated NQO1 expression and disrupted signalling pathways associated with SARS-CoV-2 disease outcomes (e.g., Endocytosis and COVID-19 signalling pathways) in cultured AECs. Collectively, we demonstrated that DCM is an effective post-exposure prophylactic for SARS-CoV-2 infection in the human AECs, and these findings could help physicians formulate novel treatment strategies for COVID-19.
HDGF promotes gefitinib resistance by activating the PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERK signaling pathways in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Han Shuyan , Tian Zhihua , Tian Huifang , Han Haibo , Zhao Jun , Jiao Yanna , Wang Chunli , Hao Huifeng , Wang Shan , Fu Jialei , Xue Dong , Sun Hong , Li Pingping
Published: June 2023

Hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF) expression is associated with poor prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, whether HDGF affects gefitinib resistance in NSCLC remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the role of HDGF in gefitinib resistance in NSCLC and to discover the underlying mechanisms. Stable HDGF knockout or overexpression cell lines were generated to perform experiments in vitro and in vivo. HDGF concentrations were determined using an ELISA kit. HDGF overexpression exacerbated the malignant phenotype of NSCLC cells, while HDGF knockdown exerted the opposite effects. Furthermore, PC-9 cells, which were initially gefitinib-sensitive, became resistant to gefitinib treatment after HDGF overexpression, whereas HDGF knockdown enhanced gefitinib sensitivity in H1975 cells, which were initially gefitinib-resistant. Higher levels of HDGF in plasma or tumor tissue also indicated gefitinib resistance. The effects of HDGF on promoting the gefitinib resistance were largely attenuated by MK2206 (Akt inhibitor) or U0126 (ERK inhibitor). Mechanistically, gefitinib treatment provoked HDGF expression and activated the Akt and ERK pathways, which were independent of EGFR phosphorylation. In summary, HDGF contributes to gefitinib resistance by activating the Akt and ERK signaling pathways. The higher HDGF levels may predict poor efficacy for TKI treatment, thus it has the potential to serve as a new target for overcoming tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in combating NSCLC.
Upper critical solution temperature polymer assemblies via variable temperature liquid phase transmission electron microscopy and liquid resonant soft X-ray scattering
Authors: Korpanty Joanna , Wang Cheng , Gianneschi Nathan C.
Published: June 2023

Here, we study the upper critical solution temperature triggered phase transition of thermally responsive poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate-co-poly(ethylene glycol) phenyl ether acrylate-block-polystyrene nanoassemblies in isopropanol. To gain mechanistic insight into the organic solution-phase dynamics of the upper critical solution temperature polymer, we leverage variable temperature liquid-cell transmission electron microscopy correlated with variable temperature liquid resonant soft X-ray scattering. Heating above the upper critical solution temperature triggers a reduction in particle size and a morphological transition from a spherical core shell particle with a complex, multiphase core to a micelle with a uniform core and Gaussian polymer chains attached to the surface. These correlated solution phase methods, coupled with mass spectral validation and modeling, provide unique insight into these thermoresponsive materials. Moreover, we detail a generalizable workflow for studying complex, solution-phase nanomaterials via correlative methods.
Non-Hermitian control between absorption and transparency in perfect zero-reflection magnonics
Authors: Qian Jie , Meng C. H. , Rao J. W. , Rao Z. J. , An Zhenghua , Gui Yongsheng , Hu C. -M.
Published: June 2023

Recent works in metamaterials and transformation optics have demonstrated exotic properties in a number of open systems, including perfect absorption/transmission, electromagnetically induced transparency, cloaking or invisibility, etc. Meanwhile, non-Hermitian physics framework has been developed to describe the properties of open systems, however, most works related to this focus on the eigenstate properties with less attention paid to the reflection characteristics in complex frequency plane, despite the usefulness of zero-reflection (ZR) for applications. Here we demonstrate that the indirectly coupled two-magnon system not only exhibits non-Hermitian eigenmode hybridization, but also ZR states in complex frequency plane. The observed perfect-ZR (PZR) state, i.e., ZR with pure real frequency, is manifested as infinitely narrow reflection dips (~67 dB) with infinite group delay discontinuity. This reflection singularity of PZR distinguishes from the resonant eigenstates but can be adjusted on or off resonance with the eigenstates. Accordingly, the absorption and transmission can be flexibly tuned from nearly full absorption (NFA) to nearly full transmission (NFT) regions.
Vertically integrated spiking cone photoreceptor arrays for color perception
Authors: Wang Xiangjing , Chen Chunsheng , Zhu Li , Shi Kailu , Peng Baocheng , Zhu Yixin , Mao Huiwu , Long Haotian , Ke Shuo , Fu Chuanyu , Zhu Ying , Wan Changjin , Wan Qing
Published: June 2023

The cone photoreceptors in our eyes selectively transduce the natural light into spiking representations, which endows the brain with high energy-efficiency color vision. However, the cone-like device with color-selectivity and spike-encoding capability remains challenging. Here, we propose a metal oxide-based vertically integrated spiking cone photoreceptor array, which can directly transduce persistent lights into spike trains at a certain rate according to the input wavelengths. Such spiking cone photoreceptors have an ultralow power consumption of less than 400 picowatts per spike in visible light, which is very close to biological cones. In this work, lights with three wavelengths were exploited as pseudo-three-primary colors to form ‘colorful’ images for recognition tasks, and the device with the ability to discriminate mixed colors shows better accuracy. Our results would enable hardware spiking neural networks with biologically plausible visual perception and provide great potential for the development of dynamic vision sensors.
Ultrahigh-Q guided mode resonances in an All-dielectric metasurface
Authors: Huang Lujun , Jin Rong , Zhou Chaobiao , Li Guanhai , Xu Lei , Overvig Adam , Deng Fu , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei , Alù Andrea , Miroshnichenko Andrey E.
Published: June 2023

High quality(Q) factor optical resonators are indispensable for many photonic devices. While very large Q-factors can be obtained theoretically in guided-mode settings, free-space implementations suffer from various limitations on the narrowest linewidth in real experiments. Here, we propose a simple strategy to enable ultrahigh-Q guided-mode resonances by introducing a patterned perturbation layer on top of a multilayer-waveguide system. We demonstrate that the associated Q-factors are inversely proportional to the perturbation squared while the resonant wavelength can be tuned through material or structural parameters. We experimentally demonstrate such high-Q resonances at telecom wavelengths by patterning a low-index layer on top of a 220 nm silicon on insulator substrate. The measurements show Q-factors up to 2.39 × 105, comparable to the largest Q-factor obtained by topological engineering, while the resonant wavelength is tuned by varying the lattice constant of the top perturbation layer. Our results hold great promise for exciting applications like sensors and filters.
Multi-layered cement-hydrogel composite with high toughness, low thermal conductivity, and self-healing capability
Authors: Chen Yuan , Zheng Yangzezhi , Zhou Yang , Zhang Wei , Li Weihuan , She Wei , Liu Jiaping , Miao Changwen
Published: June 2023

The inherent quasi-brittleness of cement-based materials, due to the disorder of their hydration products and pore structures, present significant challenges for directional matrix toughening. In this work, a rigid layered skeleton of cement slurry was prepared using a simplified ice-template method, and subsequently flexible polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel was introduced into the unidirectional pores between neighboring cement platelets, resulting in the formation of a multi-layered cement-based composite. A toughness improvement of over 175 times is achieved by the implantation of such hard-soft alternatively layered microstructure. The toughening mechanism is the stretching of hydrogels at the nano-scale and deflections of micro-cracks at the interfaces, which avoid stress concentration and dissipate huge energy. Furthermore, this cement-hydrogel composite also exhibits a low thermal conductivity (around 1/10 of normal cement) and density, high specific strength and self-healing properties, which can be used in thermal insulation, seismic high-rise buildings and long-span bridges.
Rare genetic variants impact muscle strength
Authors: Huang Yunfeng , Bodnar Dora , Chen Chia-Yen , Sanchez-Andrade Gabriela , Sanderson Mark ,   Biogen Biobank Team, Whelan Christopher D. , Bronson Paola , Sexton David , John Sally , Marshall Eric , Patel Mehool , Duraisamy Saranya , Swan Timothy , Baird Denis , Eaton Susan , Gagnon Jake , Gao Feng , Gubbels Cynthia , Kupelian Varant , Li Kejie , Liu Dawei , Loomis Stephanie , McLaughlin Helen , Mitchell Adele , Sun Benjamin , Shi Jun , Meilleur Katherine G. , Hurles Matthew E. , Gerety Sebastian S. , Tsai Ellen A. , Runz Heiko
Published: June 2023

Muscle strength is highly heritable and predictive for multiple adverse health outcomes including mortality. Here, we present a rare protein-coding variant association study in 340,319 individuals for hand grip strength, a proxy measure of muscle strength. We show that the exome-wide burden of rare protein-truncating and damaging missense variants is associated with a reduction in hand grip strength. We identify six significant hand grip strength genes, KDM5B, OBSCN, GIGYF1, TTN, RB1CC1, and EIF3J. In the example of the titin (TTN) locus we demonstrate a convergence of rare with common variant association signals and uncover genetic relationships between reduced hand grip strength and disease. Finally, we identify shared mechanisms between brain and muscle function and uncover additive effects between rare and common genetic variation on muscle strength.
The rVSV-EBOV vaccine provides limited cross-protection against Sudan virus in guinea pigs
Authors: Cao Wenguang , He Shihua , Liu Guodong , Schulz Helene , Emeterio Karla , Chan Michael , Tierney Kevin , Azaransky Kim , Soule Geoff , Tailor Nikesh , Salawudeen Abdjeleel , Nichols Rick , Fusco Joan , Safronetz David , Banadyga Logan
Published: June 2023

Recombinant vesicular stomatitis viruses (rVSVs) engineered to express heterologous viral glycoproteins have proven to be remarkably effective vaccines. Indeed, rVSV-EBOV, which expresses the Ebola virus (EBOV) glycoprotein, recently received clinical approval in the United States and Europe for its ability to prevent EBOV disease. Analogous rVSV vaccines expressing glycoproteins of different human-pathogenic filoviruses have also demonstrated efficacy in pre-clinical evaluations, yet these vaccines have not progressed far beyond research laboratories. In the wake of the most recent outbreak of Sudan virus (SUDV) in Uganda, the need for proven countermeasures was made even more acute. Here we demonstrate that an rVSV-based vaccine expressing the SUDV glycoprotein (rVSV-SUDV) generates a potent humoral immune response that protects guinea pigs from SUDV disease and death. Although the cross-protection generated by rVSV vaccines for different filoviruses is thought to be limited, we wondered whether rVSV-EBOV might also provide protection against SUDV, which is closely related to EBOV. Surprisingly, nearly 60% of guinea pigs that were vaccinated with rVSV-EBOV and challenged with SUDV survived, suggesting that rVSV-EBOV offers limited protection against SUDV, at least in the guinea pig model. These results were confirmed by a back-challenge experiment in which animals that had been vaccinated with rVSV-EBOV and survived EBOV challenge were inoculated with SUDV and survived. Whether these data are applicable to efficacy in humans is unknown, and they should therefore be interpreted cautiously. Nevertheless, this study confirms the potency of the rVSV-SUDV vaccine and highlights the potential for rVSV-EBOV to elicit a cross-protective immune response.
Lifestyle factors and clinical severity of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Gabbert Carolin , König Inke R. , Lüth Theresa , Kasten Meike , Grünewald Anne , Klein Christine , Trinh Joanne
Published: June 2023

Genetic factors, environmental factors, and gene–environment interactions have been found to modify PD risk, age at onset (AAO), and disease progression. The objective of this study was to explore the association of coffee drinking, aspirin intake, and smoking, with motor and non-motor symptoms in a cohort of 35,959 American patients with PD from the Fox Insight Study using generalized linear models. Coffee drinkers had fewer problems swallowing but dosage and duration of coffee intake were not associated with motor or non-motor symptoms. Aspirin intake correlated with more tremor (p = 0.0026), problems getting up (p = 0.0185), light-headedness (p = 0.0043), and problems remembering (p = 1 × 10–5). Smoking was directly associated with symptoms: smokers had more problems with drooling (p = 0.0106), swallowing (p = 0.0002), and freezing (p < 1 × 10–5). Additionally, smokers had more possibly mood-related symptoms: unexplained pains (p < 1 × 10–5), problems remembering (p = 0.0001), and feeling sad (p < 1 × 10–5). Confirmatory and longitudinal studies are warranted to investigate the clinical correlation over time.
Episodic transient deformation revealed by the analysis of multiple GNSS networks in the Noto Peninsula, central Japan
Authors: Nishimura Takuya , Hiramatsu Yoshihiro , Ohta Yusaku
Published: June 2023

Since November 30, 2020, an intense seismic swarm and transient deformation have been continuously observed in the Noto Peninsula, central Japan, which is a non-volcanic/geothermal area far from major plate boundaries. We modeled transient deformation based on a combined analysis of multiple Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observation networks, including one operated by a private sector company (SoftBank Corp.), relocated earthquake hypocenters, and tectonic settings. Our analysis showed a total displacement pattern over 2 years shows horizontal inflation and uplift of up to ~ 70 mm around the source of the earthquake swarm. In the first 3 months, the opening of the shallow-dipping tensile crack had an estimated volumetric increase of ~ 1.4 × 107 m3 at a depth of ~ 16 km. Over the next 15 months, the observed deformation was well reproduced by shear-tensile sources, which represent an aseismic reverse-type slip and the opening of a southeast-dipping fault zone at a depth of 14–16 km. We suggest that the upwelling fluid spread at a depth of ~ 16 km through an existing shallow-dipping permeable fault zone and then diffused into the fault zone, triggering a long-lasting sub-meter aseismic slip below the seismogenic depth. The aseismic slip further triggered intense earthquake swarms at the updip.
A theoretical probe into the separation of CO2/CH4/N2 mixtures with polysulfone/polydimethylsiloxane–nano zinc oxide MMM
Authors: Soleimani Reza , Saeedi Dehaghani Amir Hossein
Published: June 2023

In the current investigation, molecular dynamics (MD) and Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulation as remarkable and competent approaches have been employed for understanding structural and transport properties of MMMs in the realm of gas separation. The two commonly used polymers i.e. polysulfone (Psf) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as well as zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle (NP) were used to carefully examine the transport properties of three light gasses (CO2, N2 and CH4) through simple Psf, Psf/PDMS composite loaded by different amounts of ZnO NP. Also, the fractional free volume (FFV), X-ray diffraction (XRD), glass transition temperature (Tg), and Equilibrium density were calculated to scrutinize the structural characterizations of the membranes. Moreover, the effect of feed pressure (4–16 bar) on gas separation performance of simulated MMMs was investigated. Results obtained in different experiments showed a clear improvement in the performance of simulated membranes by adding PDMS to PSf matrix. The selectivity of studied MMMs was in the range from 50.91 to 63.05 at pressures varying from 4 to 16 bar for the CO2/N2 gas pair, whereas the corresponding value for CO2/CH4 system was found to be in the range 27.27–46.24. For 6 wt% ZnO in 80%PSf + 20%PDMS membrane, high permeabilities of 78.02, 2.86 and 1.33 barrers were observed for CO2, CH4 and N2 gases, respectively. The 90%PSf + 10%PDMS membrane with 2% ZnO had a highest CO2/N2 selectivity value of 63.05 and its CO2 permeability at 8 bar was 57 barrer.
Identification of drought-tolerant hub genes in Iranian KC-2226 genotype of Aegilops tauschii using transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Hasanpour Keyvan , Aalami Ali , Ghanbari Moheb Seraj Rahele , Hosseini Ramin , Naeimi Shahram , Esmaeilzadeh-Salestani Keyvan
Published: June 2023

Aegilops tauschii, as a donor of D genome to the bread wheat with a valuable source of resistance to different biotic and abiotic stresses, is used to improve the quality of wheat cultivars. Every genotype has a specific genetic content, the investigation of which can lead to the identification of useful genes such as stress tolerance genes, including drought. Therefore, 23 genotypes of Ae. tauschii were selected to evaluate their morphological and physiological traits under greenhouse conditions. Among them, a superior tolerant genotype (KC-2226) was chosen for transcriptomic analysis. Our result showed that 5007 and 3489 genes were deferentially up- and downregulated, respectively. Upregulated genes were involved in photosynthesis, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and amino acid biosynthesis whereas downregulated genes were often engaged in DNA synthesis, replication, repair and topological changes. The result of protein–protein interaction network analysis showed that AT1G76550 (1.46), AT1G20950 (1.42), IAR4 (1.19), and PYD2 (1.16) among upregulated genes and THY-1 (44), PCNA1 (41) and TOPII (22) among down-regulated genes had the highest interactions with other genes. In conclusion, Ae. tauschii employs elevated transcription of specific genes involved in photosynthesis, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis and amino acid biosynthesis pathways rather than genes active in DNA synthesis and repair to provide the energy needed for the plant to survive under stress conditions.
Thrombogenesis-associated genetic determinants as predictors of thromboembolism and prognosis in cervical cancer
Authors: Neto Beatriz Vieira , Tavares Valéria , da Silva José Brito , Liz-Pimenta Joana , Marques Inês Soares , Carvalho Luísa , Salgado Lurdes , Pereira Deolinda , Medeiros Rui
Published: June 2023

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of death among cancer patients. Khorana score (KS) is the most studied tool to predict cancer-related VTE, however, it exerts poor sensitivity. Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been associated with VTE risk in the general population, but whether they are predictors of cancer-related VTE is a matter of discussion. Compared to other solid tumours, little is known about VTE in the setting of cervical cancer (CC) and whether thrombogenesis-related polymorphisms could be valuable biomarkers in patients with this neoplasia. This study aims to analyse the effect of VTE occurrence on the prognosis of CC patients, explore the predictive capability of KS and the impact of thrombogenesis-related polymorphisms on CC-related VTE incidence and patients’ prognosis regardless of VTE. A profile of eight SNPs was evaluated. A retrospective hospital-based cohort study was conducted with 400 CC patients under chemoradiotherapy. SNP genotyping was carried on by using TaqMan® Allelic Discrimination methodology. Time to VTE occurrence and overall survival were the two measures of clinical outcome evaluated. The results indicated that VTE occurrence (8.5%) had a significant impact on the patient’s survival (log-rank test, P < 0.001). KS showed poor performance (KS ≥ 3, χ2, P = 0.191). PROCR rs10747514 and RGS7 rs2502448 were significantly associated with the risk of CC-related VTE development (P = 0.021 and P = 0.006, respectively) and represented valuable prognostic biomarkers regardless of VTE (P = 0.004 and P = 0.010, respectively). Thus, thrombogenesis-related genetic polymorphisms may constitute valuable biomarkers among CC patients allowing a more personalized clinical intervention.
Identification, isolation, and structural characterization of novel forced degradation products of Ertugliflozin using advanced analytical techniques
Authors: Salakolusu Suresh , Katari Naresh Kumar , Sharma Ganapavarapu Veera Raghava , Kaliyaperumal Muralidharan , Puppala Umamaheshwar , Ranga Mahesh , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha Babu
Published: June 2023

The research elucidates the stress degradation behavior of Ertugliflozin, which is used for the treatment of type-2 diabetics. The degradation was conducted as per ICH guidelines and Ertugliflozin is relatively stable in thermal, photolytic, neutral, and alkaline hydrolysis conditions; however, considerable degradation was detected in acid hydrolysis and oxidative hydrolysis. Degradation products were identified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, isolated by semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography, and structural characterization using high-resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Total four degradation products were identified and isolated in acid degradation, which are degradation products 1, 2, 3, and 4. Whereas in oxidative conditions, degradation product 5 was identified. All the five degradation products formed are novel, which was not reported earlier. This is the first time documented complete structural characterization of all five degradation products by using a hyphenated analytical technique. High-resolution mass, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used in the present study to get concrete confirmation of degradation products structures. The current method is also used to identify degradation products with shorter runtime in the future.