bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encryption in phase space for classical coherent optical communications
Authors: Chan Adrian , Khalil Mostafa , Shahriar Kh Arif , Plant David V. , Chen Lawrence R. , Kuang Randy
Published: August 2023

Optical layer attacks on optical fiber communication networks are one of the weakest reinforced areas of the network, allowing attackers to overcome security software or firewalls when proper safeguards are not put into place. Encrypting data using a random phase mask is a simple yet effective way to bolster the data security at the physical layer. Since the interactions of the random phases used for such encryption heavily depend on system properties like data rate, modulation format, distance, degree of phase randomness, laser properties, etc., it is important to determine the optimum operating conditions for different scenarios. In this work, assuming that the transmitter and the receiver have a secret pre-shared key, we present a theoretical study of security in such a system through mutual information analysis. Next, we determine operating conditions which ensure security for 4-PSK, 16-PSK, and 128-QAM formats through numerical simulation. Moreover, we provide an experimental demonstration of the system using 16-QAM modulation. We then use numerical simulation to verify the efficacy of the encryption and study two preventative measures for different modulation formats which will prevent an eavesdropper from obtaining any data. The results demonstrate that the system is secure against a tapping attack if an attacker has no information of the phase modulator and pre-shared key.
Characterizing the role of Phlda3 in the development of acute toxicity and malignant transformation of hematopoietic cells induced by total-body irradiation in mice
Authors: Hasapis Stephanie , Caraballo Isibel , Sears Timothy J. , Brock Kennedy D. , Cart John B. , Moding Everett J. , Lee Chang-Lung
Published: August 2023

The tumor suppressor p53 is a transcriptional factor that plays a crucial role in controlling acute toxicity and long-term malignant transformation of hematopoietic cells induced by genotoxic stress such as ionizing radiation. Among all transcriptional targets of p53, one gene that is robustly induced by radiation is the pleckstrin homology domain-only protein Phlda3. However, the role that Phlda3 plays in regulating the response of hematopoietic cells to radiation is unknown. Here, using isogenic cell lines and genetically engineered mouse models, we showed that radiation induces Phlda3 in human leukemia cells and mouse normal hematopoietic cells in a p53-dependent manner. However, deletion of the Phlda3 gene did not ameliorate radiation-induced acute hematologic toxicity. In addition, distinct from mice that lose p53, loss of Phlda3 did not alter the latency and incidence of radiation-induced thymic lymphoma in mice. Remarkably, whole-exome sequencing data showed that lymphomas in irradiated Phlda3+/+ mice harbor a significantly higher number of single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and indels compared to lymphomas in irradiated Phlda3+/− and Phlda3−/− littermates. Together, our results indicate that although deletion of Phlda3 does not accelerate the development of radiation-induced thymic lymphoma, fewer SNVs and indels are necessary to initiate lymphomagenesis after radiation exposure when Phlda3 is silenced.
Development of prediction model for alanine transaminase elevations during the first 6 months of conventional synthetic DMARD treatment
Authors: Kuusalo Laura , Venäläinen Mikko S. , Kirjala Heidi , Saranpää Sofia , Elo Laura L. , Pirilä Laura
Published: August 2023

Frequent laboratory monitoring is recommended for early identification of toxicity when initiating conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs). We aimed at developing a risk prediction model to individualize laboratory testing at csDMARD initiation. We identified inflammatory joint disease patients (N = 1196) initiating a csDMARD in Turku University Hospital 2013–2019. Baseline and follow-up safety monitoring results were drawn from electronic health records. For rheumatoid arthritis patients, diagnoses and csDMARD initiation/cessation dates were manually confirmed. Primary endpoint was alanine transaminase (ALT) elevation of more than twice the upper limit of normal (ULN) within 6 months after treatment initiation. Computational models for predicting incident ALT elevations were developed using Lasso Cox proportional hazards regression with stable iterative variable selection (SIVS) and were internally validated against a randomly selected test cohort (1/3 of the data) that was not used for training the models. Primary endpoint was reached in 82 patients (6.9%). Among baseline variables, Lasso model with SIVS predicted subsequent ALT elevations of > 2 × ULN using higher ALT, csDMARD other than methotrexate or sulfasalazine and psoriatic arthritis diagnosis as important predictors, with a concordance index of 0.71 in the test cohort. Respectively, at first follow-up, in addition to baseline ALT and psoriatic arthritis diagnosis, also ALT change from baseline was identified as an important predictor resulting in a test concordance index of 0.72. Our computational model predicts ALT elevations after the first follow-up test with good accuracy and can help in optimizing individual testing frequency.
Tau tubulin kinase 1 and 2 regulate ciliogenesis and human pluripotent stem cells–derived neural rosettes
Authors: Binó Lucia , Čajánek Lukáš
Published: August 2023

Primary cilia are key regulators of embryo development and tissue homeostasis. However, their mechanisms and functions, particularly in the context of human cells, are still unclear. Here, we analyzed the consequences of primary cilia modulation for human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) proliferation and differentiation. We report that neither activation of the cilia-associated Hedgehog signaling pathway nor ablation of primary cilia by CRISPR gene editing to knockout Tau Tubulin Kinase 2 (TTBK2), a crucial ciliogenesis regulator, affects the self-renewal of hPSCs. Further, we show that TTBK1, a related kinase without previous links to ciliogenesis, is upregulated during hPSCs-derived neural rosette differentiation. Importantly, we demonstrate that while TTBK1 fails to localize to the mother centriole, it regulates primary cilia formation in the differentiated, but not the undifferentiated hPSCs. Finally, we show that TTBK1/2 and primary cilia are implicated in the regulation of the size of hPSCs-derived neural rosettes.
Semi-supervised segmentation of retinoblastoma tumors in fundus images
Authors: Rahdar Amir , Ahmadi Mohamad Javad , Naseripour Masood , Akhtari Abtin , Sedaghat Ahad , Hosseinabadi Vahid Zare , Yarmohamadi Parsa , Hajihasani Samin , Mirshahi Reza
Published: August 2023

Retinoblastoma is a rare form of cancer that predominantly affects young children as the primary intraocular malignancy. Studies conducted in developed and some developing countries have revealed that early detection can successfully cure over 90% of children with retinoblastoma. An unusual white reflection in the pupil is the most common presenting symptom. Depending on the tumor size, shape, and location, medical experts may opt for different approaches and treatments, with the results varying significantly due to the high reliance on prior knowledge and experience. This study aims to present a model based on semi-supervised machine learning that will yield segmentation results comparable to those achieved by medical experts. First, the Gaussian mixture model is utilized to detect abnormalities in approximately 4200 fundus images. Due to the high computational cost of this process, the results of this approach are then used to train a cost-effective model for the same purpose. The proposed model demonstrated promising results in extracting highly detailed boundaries in fundus images. Using the Sørensen–Dice coefficient as the comparison metric for segmentation tasks, an average accuracy of 93% on evaluation data was achieved.
Accuracy assessment of land cover products in China from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Li Zhiwen , Chen Xingyu , Qi Jie , Xu Chong , An Jiafu , Chen Jiandong
Published: August 2023

The accuracy assessment of land cover data is of significant value to accurately monitor and objectively reproduce spatio-temporal dynamic changes to land surface landscapes. In this study, the interpretation and applicability of CCI, MCD, and CGLS long time-series land cover data products for China were evaluated via consistency analysis and a confusion matrix system using NLUD-C periodic products as reference data. The results showed that CGLS had the highest overall accuracy, Kappa coefficient, and area consistency in the continuous time-series evaluation, followed by MCD, whereas CCI had the worst performance. For the accuracy assessment of subdivided land cover types, the three products could accurately describe the distribution of forest land in China with a high recognition level, but their recognition ability for water body and construction land was poor. Among the other types, CCI could better identify cropland, MCD for grassland, and CGLS for unused land. Based on these evaluation results and characteristics of the data products, we developed suitable selection schemes for users with different requirements.
Validation of EuroSCORE II in atrial fibrillation heart surgery patients from the KROK Registry
Authors: Kuźma Łukasz , Kowalewski Mariusz , Wańha Wojciech , Dąbrowski Emil Julian , Jasiński Marek , Widenka Kazimierz , Deja Marek , Bartuś Krzysztof , Hirnle Tomasz , Wojakowski Wojciech , Lorusso Roberto , Tobota Zdzisław , Maruszewski Bohdan J. , Suwalski Piotr ,   KROK Investigators, Anisimowicz Lech , Biederman Andrzej , Borkowski Dariusz , Brykczyński Mirosław , Bugajski Paweł , Burysz Marian , Cholewiński Paweł , Cichoń Romuald , Cisowski Marek , Dziatkowiak Antoni , Gburek Tadeusz , Gerber Witold , Gryszko Leszek , Haponiuk Ireneusz , Hendzel Piotr , Jabłonka Stanisław , Jarmoszewicz Krzysztof , Jaszewski Ryszard , Jemielity Marek , Kalawski Ryszard , Kapelak Bogusław , Karolczak Maciej A. , Kaperczak Jacek , Knapik Piotr , Krejca Michał , Kustrzycki Wojciech , Kuśmierczyk Mariusz , Kwinecki Paweł , Markuszewski Leszek , Missima Maurycy , Moll Jacek J. , Ogorzeja Wojciech , Pająk Jacek , Pasierski Michał , Pawliszak Wojciech , Pietrzyk Edward , Religa Grzegorz , Rogowski Jan , Różański Jacek , Sadowski Jerzy , Sharma Girish , Skalski Janusz , MD Jacek Skiba , Stanisławski Ryszard , Stążka Janusz , Stec Sebastian , Stępiński Piotr , Suwalski Grzegorz , Suwalski Kazimierz , Tułecki Łukasz , Wierzba Waldemar , Wojtalik Michał , Woś Stanisław , Zembala Michał Oskar , Żelazny Piotr
Published: August 2023

The study aimed to validate the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation score (EuroSCORE II) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). All data were retrieved from the National Registry of Cardiac Surgery Procedures (KROK). EuroSCORE II calibration and discrimination performance was evaluated. The final cohort consisted of 44,172 patients (median age 67, 30.8% female, 13.4% with AF). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.14% (N = 1830), and 5.21% (N = 2303) for 30-day mortality. EuroSCORE II significantly underestimated mortality in mild- and moderate-risk populations [Observed (O):Expected (E)—1.1, 1.16). In the AF subgroup, it performed well [O:E—0.99), whereas in the very high-risk population overestimated mortality (O:E—0.9). EuroSCORE II showed better discrimination in AF (−) [area under curve (AUC) 0.805, 95% CI 0.793–0.817)] than in AF (+) population (AUC 0.791, 95%CI 0.767–0.816), P < 0.001. The worst discriminative performance for the AF (+) group was for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (AUC 0.746, 95% CI 0.676–0.817) as compared with AF (−) population (AUC 0.798, 95% CI 0.774–0.822), P < 0.001. EuroSCORE II is more accurate for patients with AF. However, it underestimated mortality rates for low-to-moderate-risk patients and had a lower ability to distinguish between high- and low-risk patients with AF, particularly in those undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.
Contribution of an Asian-prevalent HLA haplotype to the risk of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kawamura Atsushi , Matsuda Koichi , Murakami Yoshinori , Saruta Masayuki , Kohno Takashi , Shiraishi Kouya
Published: August 2023

Liver cancer, particularly hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is more common in Asians than in Caucasians. This is due, at least in part, to regional differences in the prevalence of exogenous factors such as HBV; however, endogenous factors specific to Asia might also play a role. Such endogenous factors include HLA (human leukocyte antigen) genes, which are considered candidates due to their high racial diversity. Here, we performed a pancancer association analysis of 147 alleles of HLA-class I/II genes (HLA-A, B, and C/DRB1, DQA1, DQB1, DPA1, and DPB1) in 31,727 cases of 12 cancer types, including 1684 liver cancer cases and 107,103 controls. HLA alleles comprising a haplotype prevalent in Asia were significantly associated with pancancer risk (e.g., odds ratio [OR] for a DRB1*15:02 allele = 1.12, P = 2.7 × 10–15), and the associations were particularly strong in HBV-related HCC (OR 1.95, P = 2.8 × 10–5). In silico prediction suggested that the DRB1*15:02 molecule encoded by the haplotype does not bind efficiently to HBV-derived peptides. RNA sequencing indicated that HBV-related HCC in carriers of the haplotype shows low infiltration by NK cells. These results indicate that the Asian-prevalent HLA haplotype increases the risk of HBV-related liver cancer risk by attenuating immune activity against HBV infection, and by reducing NK cell infiltration into the tumor.
Convalescent plasma and all-cause mortality of COVID-19 patients: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mihalek Nora , Radovanović Dragana , Barak Otto , Čolović Petar , Huber Markus , Erdoes Gabor
Published: August 2023

Insight into the clinical potential of convalescent plasma in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is important given the severe clinical courses in unvaccinated and seronegative individuals. The aim of the study was to investigate whether there is a survival benefit of convalescent plasma therapy in COVID-19 patients. The authors independently assessed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified by the search strategy for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. The binary primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Risk ratio (RR) of the convalescent plasma treatment (vs. best standard care) and its associated standard error (effect size) were calculated. A random-effects model was employed to statistically pool the effect sizes of the selected studies. We included 19 RCTs with 17,021 patients. The random-effects model resulted in an estimated pooled RR of 0.94 (95% CI 0.81–1.08, p = 0.33), showing no statistical evidence of the benefit of convalescent plasma therapy on all-cause mortality. Convalescent plasma therapy was not found to be effective in reducing all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients. Further studies are needed to determine in which patients convalescent plasma therapy may lead to a reduction in mortality.
Optimization of salinity and composition of injected low salinity water into sandstone reservoirs with minimum scale deposition
Authors: Bijani Masoud , Khamehchi Ehsan , Shabani Mehdi
Published: August 2023

In this study, a mechanistic and comprehensive examination of the impact of the scale formation situation of different diluted seawater levels was conducted to investigate the influence of important factors on the performance and efficiency of low salinity water. To clarify the effective participating mechanisms, scale precipitation by compatibility test, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, zeta potentials as surface charge, ion concentration changes, contact angle, pH, CO2 concentration, electrical conductivity, and ionic strength were analyzed. The results showed that increasing the dilution time to the optimal level (10 times-diluted seawater (SW#10D)) could effectively reduce the amount of severe precipitation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and calcium sulfate (CaSO4) scales. However, the reduction in CaCO3 scale precipitation (due to mixing different time diluted seawater with formation brine) and its effect on the wettability alteration (due to the change in surface charge of OLSW/oil and sandstone/OLSW) had higher impacts. The zeta potential results have shown that OLSW with optimum salinity, dilution, and ionic composition compared to different low salinity water compositions could change the surface charge of OLSW/oil/rock (− 16.7 mV) and OLSW/rock (− 10.5 mV) interfaces toward an extra negatively charged. FESEM and contact angle findings confirmed zeta potential results, i.e. OLSW was able to make sandstone surface more negative with diluting seawater and wettability changes from oil-wet toward water-wet. As a result, SW#10D was characterized by minimum scaling tendency and scale deposition (60 mg/l), maximum surface charge of OLSW/oil/rock (− 16.7 mV), and the potential of incremental oil recovery due to wettability alteration toward more water-wetness (the oil/rock contact angle ~ 50.13°) compared with other diluted seawater levels.
Kinetics of small and middle molecule clearance during continuous hemodialysis
Authors: Whiting Livia , Bianchi Nathan , Faouzi Mohamed , Schneider Antoine
Published: August 2023

Regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) enables prolonged continuous kidney replacement therapy (CKRT) filter lifespan. However, membrane diffusive performance might progressively decrease and remain unnoticed. We prospectively evaluated the kinetics of solute clearance and factors associated with decreased membrane performance in 135 consecutive CKRT-RCA circuits (35 patients). We recorded baseline patients’ characteristics and clinical signs of decreased membrane performance. We calculated effluent/serum ratios (ESR) as well as respective clearances for urea, creatinine and β2-microglobuline at 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after circuit initiation. Using mixed-effects logistic regression model analyses, we assessed the effect of time on those values and determined independent predictors of decreased membrane performance as defined by an ESR for urea < 0.81. We observed a minor but statistically significant decrease in both ESR and solute clearance across the duration of therapy for all three solutes. We observed decreased membrane performance in 31 (23%) circuits while clinical signs were present in 19 (14.1%). The risk of decreased membrane performance significantly increased over time: 1.8% at T1 (p = 0.16); 7.3% at T2 (p = 0.01); 15.7% at T3 (p = 0.001) and 16.4% at T4 (p < 0.003). Four factors present within 24 h of circuit initiation were independently associated with decreased membrane performance: arterial blood bicarbonate level (OR 1.50; p < 0.001), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT; OR = 0.93; p = 0.02), fibrinogen level (OR 6.40; p = 0.03) and Charlson score (OR 0.10; p < 0.01). COVID-19 infection was not associated with increased risk of decreased membrane performance. Regular monitoring of ESR might be appropriate in selected patients undergoing CKRT.
A sustainable avenue for the synthesis of propargylamines and benzofurans using a Cu-functionalized MIL-101(Cr) as a reusable heterogeneous catalyst
Authors: Sarkar Fillip Kumar , Kyndiah Lenida , Gajurel Sushmita , Sarkar Rajib , Jana Samaresh , Pal Amarta Kumar
Published: August 2023

A heterogeneous copper-catalyzed A3 coupling reaction of aldehydes, amines, and alkynes for the synthesis of propargylamines and benzofurans has been developed. Here, the modified metal–organic framework MIL-101(Cr)-SB-Cu complex was chosen as the heterogeneous copper catalyst and prepared via post-synthetic modification of amino-functionalized MIL-101(Cr). The structure, morphology, thermal stability, and copper content of the catalyst were determined by FT-IR, PXRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, TGA, XPS, and ICP-OES. The catalyst shows high catalytic activity for the aforementioned reactions under solvent-free reaction conditions. High yields, low catalyst loading, easy catalyst recovery and reusability with not much shrink in catalytic activity, and a good yield of 82% in gram-scale synthesis are some of the benefits of this protocol that drove it towards sustainability.
Towards REPO4 nanocrystal-doped optical fibers for distributed sensing applications
Authors: Fuertes V. , Grégoire N. , Labranche P. , Gagnon S. , LaRochelle S. , Messaddeq Y.
Published: August 2023

Rayleigh scattering enhanced nanoparticle-doped optical fibers, for distributed sensing applications, is a new technology that offers unique advantages to optical fiber community. However, the existing fabrication technology, based on in situ grown alkaline earth nanoparticles, is restricted to few compositions and exhibit a great dependence on many experimental conditions. Moreover, there is still several uncertainties about the effect of drawing process on the nanoparticle characteristics and its influence on the scattering enhancement and the induced optical loss. In this work, we shed light on all these issues that prevent the progress in the field and demonstrate the suitability of doping optical fibers with YPO4 nanocrystals for developing tunable Rayleigh scattering enhanced nanoparticle-doped optical fibers. An exhaustive 3D microstructural study reveals that their features are closely linked to the fiber drawing process, which allow the size and shape engineering at the nanoscale. In particular, the YPO4 nanocrystals preserve their features to a large extent when the optical fibers are drawn below 1950 °C, which allows obtaining homogeneous nanocrystal features and optical performance. Fabricated fibers exhibit a tunable enhanced backscattering in the range of 15.3–54.3 dB, with respect to a SMF-28 fiber, and two-way optical losses in the range 0.3–160.7 dB/m, revealed by Optical Backscatter Reflectometry (OBR) measurements. This allows sensing lengths from 0.3 m up to more than 58 m. The present work suggests a bright future of YPO4 nanocrystals for distributed sensing field and open a new gate towards the incorporation of other rare-earth orthophosphate (REPO4) nanocrystals with pre-defined characteristics that will overcome the limitations of the current in situ grown alkaline earth-based technology.
Noncausal effects between tea intake and migraine risk: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jin Chen , Tu Sijing , Sun Siyi , Zhang Zhongyi , Wang Xiaohe
Published: August 2023

Observational studies have yielded conflicting results regarding the relationship between tea intake and migraine risk. Residual confounders and potential reverse causality are unavoidable in traditional observational studies. To provide evidence for establishing viable disease screening and prevention strategies, a Mendelian randomization study (MR) was conducted to determine the causal inference between tea intake and migraine. We obtained 28 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for any migraine (AM), 25 SNPs for migraine with aura (MA), and 27 SNPs for migraine without aura (MO) associated with tea intake derived from a large genome-wide association study (GWAS) of the UK Biobank (UKBB) (containing 447,485 samples). The largest migraine GWAS performed by the International Headache Genetics Consortium (IHGC), including 29,209 cases and 172,931 controls, provided data on migraines and their subtypes (MA and MO). We used the method of inverse variance weighting (IVW) with fixed effects as the first-string MR selection. Sensitivity analysis and MR-pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO) method further assessed the robustness of the findings. Based on the conclusion of IVW in the fixed effects model, we found that tea intake had no causal relationship with AM risk (odds ratio (OR), 0.94; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.70–1.25; P = 0.65), MA risk (OR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.51–1.72; P = 0.83), or MO risk (OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.52–1.54; P = 0.69). Sensitivity analyses and MR-PRESSO showed no directional pleiotropy or heterogeneity. Our two-sample MR investigation found no causality between tea intake and migraine risk in European populations, implying that attempts to change tea drinking habits may not lead to a reduced risk of migraine.
Race-specific association of an IRGM risk allele with cytokine expression in human subjects
Authors: Ajayi Teminioluwa , Rai Prashant , Shi Min , Gabor Kristin A. , Karmaus Peer W. F. , Meacham Julie M. , Katen Kevin , Madenspacher Jennifer H. , Schurman Shepherd H. , Fessler Michael B.
Published: August 2023

Immunity-related GTPase family M (IRGM), located on human chromosome 5q33.1, encodes a protein that promotes autophagy and suppresses the innate immune response. The minor allele of rs13361189 (−4299T>C), a single nucleotide polymorphism in the IRGM promoter, has been associated with several diseases, including Crohn’s disease and tuberculosis. Although patterns of linkage disequilibrium and minor allele frequency for this polymorphism differ dramatically between subjects of European and African descent, studies of rs13361189 have predominantly been conducted in Europeans and the mechanism of association is poorly understood. We recruited a cohort of 68 individuals (30 White, 34 African American, 4 other race) with varying rs13361189 genotypes and assessed a panel of immune response measures including whole blood cytokine induction following ex vivo stimulation with Toll-like Receptor ligands. Minor allele carriers were found to have increased serum immunoglobulin M, C-reactive protein, and circulating CD8+ T cells. No differences in whole blood cytokines were observed between minor allele carriers and non-carriers in the overall study population; however, minor allele status was associated with increased induction of a subset of cytokines among African American subjects, and decreased induction among White subjects. These findings underline the importance of broad racial inclusion in genetic studies of immunity.
Molecular reshaping of phage-displayed Interleukin-2 at beta chain receptor interface to obtain potent super-agonists with improved developability profiles
Authors: Rojas Gertrudis , Relova-Hernández Ernesto , Pérez-Riverón Annia , Castro-Martínez Camila , Diaz-Bravo Osmany , Infante Yanelys Cabrera , Gómez Tania , Solozábal Joaquín , DíazBravo Ana Beatriz , Schubert Maren , Becker Marlies , Pérez-Massón Beatriz , Pérez-Martínez Dayana , Alvarez-Arzola Rydell , Guirola Osmany , Chinea Glay , Graca Luis , Dübel Stefan , León Kalet , Carmenate Tania
Published: August 2023

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) engineered versions, with biased immunological functions, have emerged from yeast display and rational design. Here we reshaped the human IL-2 interface with the IL-2 receptor beta chain through the screening of phage-displayed libraries. Multiple beta super-binders were obtained, having increased receptor binding ability and improved developability profiles. Selected variants exhibit an accumulation of negatively charged residues at the interface, which provides a better electrostatic complementarity to the beta chain, and faster association kinetics. These findings point to mechanistic differences with the already reported superkines, characterized by a conformational switch due to the rearrangement of the hydrophobic core. The molecular bases of the favourable developability profile were tracked to a single residue: L92. Recombinant Fc-fusion proteins including our variants are superior to those based on H9 superkine in terms of expression levels in mammalian cells, aggregation resistance, stability, in vivo enhancement of immune effector responses, and anti-tumour effect.
Human liver single nuclear RNA sequencing implicates BMPR2, GDF15, arginine, and estrogen in portopulmonary hypertension
Authors: Jose Arun , Elwing Jean M. , Kawut Steven M. , Pauciulo Michael W. , Sherman Kenneth E. , Nichols William C. , Fallon Michael B. , McCormack Francis X.
Published: August 2023

Portopulmonary hypertension (PoPH) is a type of pulmonary vascular disease due to portal hypertension that exhibits high morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms driving disease are unknown, and transcriptional characteristics unique to the PoPH liver remain unexplored. Here, we apply single nuclear RNA sequencing to compare cirrhotic livers from patients with and without PoPH. We identify characteristics unique to PoPH in cells surrounding the central hepatic vein, including increased growth differentiation factor signaling, enrichment of the arginine biosynthesis pathway, and differential expression of the bone morphogenic protein type II receptor and estrogen receptor type I genes. These results provide insight into the transcriptomic characteristics of the PoPH liver and mechanisms by which PoPH cellular dysfunction might contribute to pulmonary vascular remodeling.
The pharmacoepigenomic landscape of cancer cell lines reveals the epigenetic component of drug sensitivity
Authors: Ohnmacht Alexander Joschua , Rajamani Anantharamanan , Avar Göksu , Kutkaite Ginte , Gonçalves Emanuel , Saur Dieter , Menden Michael Patrick
Published: August 2023

Aberrant DNA methylation accompanies genetic alterations during oncogenesis and tumour homeostasis and contributes to the transcriptional deregulation of key signalling pathways in cancer. Despite increasing efforts in DNA methylation profiling of cancer patients, there is still a lack of epigenetic biomarkers to predict treatment efficacy. To address this, we analyse 721 cancer cell lines across 22 cancer types treated with 453 anti-cancer compounds. We systematically detect the predictive component of DNA methylation in the context of transcriptional and mutational patterns, i.e., in total 19 DNA methylation biomarkers across 17 drugs and five cancer types. DNA methylation constitutes drug sensitivity biomarkers by mediating the expression of proximal genes, thereby enhancing biological signals across multi-omics data modalities. Our method reproduces anticipated associations, and in addition, we find that the NEK9 promoter hypermethylation may confer sensitivity to the NEDD8-activating enzyme (NAE) inhibitor pevonedistat in melanoma through downregulation of NEK9. In summary, we envision that epigenomics will refine existing patient stratification, thus empowering the next generation of precision oncology.
New technologies and reagents in lateral flow assay (LFA) designs for enhancing accuracy and sensitivity
Authors: Dey Mohan Kumar , Iftesum Maria , Devireddy Ram , Gartia Manas Ranjan
Published: August 2023

Integrating new technologies and reagents could improve lateral flow assays' (LFAs) sensitivity and accuracy while minimizing the complexity and potential for false positives.
Double blocking gap-filling-ligation coupled with cascade isothermal amplification for ultrasensitive quantification of N6-methyladenosine
Authors: Liu Weiliang , Su Fengxia , Gao Kejian , Chen Desheng , Li Zhengping
Published: August 2023

M6A double blocking gap-filling-ligation coupled with cascade isothermal amplification for ultrasensitive quantification of m6A at specific sites.
Constructing layer-by-layer self-assembly MoS2/C nanomaterials by a one-step hydrothermal method for catalytic hydrogenation of phenanthrene
Authors: Huang Rong , Yang Chenggong , Ta Na , Ma Huaijun , Qu Wei , Wang Congxin , Pan Zhendong , Wang Donge , Tian Zhijian
Published: August 2023

The layer-by-layer MoS2/C catalyst is constructed by the electrostatic adsorption between MoS2 and C nuclei with one-step hydrothermal method, and exhibits an enhanced catalytic hydrogenation activity.
Calculation of excited states of monolayer TPPA-COF based on first principles
Authors: Tang Xudong , Liu Yani , Li Mingyang , Ding Wangyang , Chen Haihua , Wei Wenjuan , Li Jiayu
Published: August 2023

The electron and hole distribution in the excited states of monolayer TPPA-COF are obtained by first principles calculation, and the ultraviolet-visible spectra were simulated to confirm the excellent light absorption characteristics of the COF.
Mechanism of formation of Co–Ru nanoalloys: the key role of Ru in the reduction pathway of Co
Authors: Azeredo Brandon , Ben Ghzaiel Tayssir , Huang Ning , Nowak Sophie , Peron Jennifer , Giraud Marion , Balachandran Jeyadevan , Taché Olivier , Barthe Laurent , Piquemal Jean-Yves , Briois Valérie , Sicard Lorette
Published: August 2023

Different physical chemistry techniques were coupled to identify the key factors governing the formation of CoRu nanoalloys in solution. In particular, the addition of ruthenium to a solution of cobalt ions triggers the reduction of the latter.
Characterizing metals in particulate pollution in communities at the fenceline of heavy industry: combining mobile monitoring and size-resolved filter measurements
Authors: Tehrani Mina W. , Fortner Edward C. , Robinson Ellis S. , Chiger Andrea A. , Sheu Roger , Werden Benjamin S. , Gigot Carolyn , Yacovitch Tara , Van Bramer Scott , Burke Thomas , Koehler Kirsten , Nachman Keeve E. , Rule Ana M. , DeCarlo Peter F.
Published: August 2023

This study investigates metal/metalloid concentrations and emission sources in fenceline communities of a heavy industry area using advanced online and offline mass spectrometry techniques.
Exploring the adsorption of short and long chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to different zeolites using environmental samples
Authors: Mancinelli Maura , Martucci Annalisa , Ahrens Lutz
Published: August 2023

18 PFASs were studied in adsorption on 9 different zeolites and powdered activated carbon (PAC) using ultrapure and real water samples. Zeolite beta with SAR equal to 25 had the most promising performance among all the zeolites investigated.
Lactobacillus co-fermentation of Cerasus humilis juice alters chemical properties, enhances antioxidant activity, and improves gut microbiota
Authors: Li Ping , Chen Jiaji , Guo Chang-e , Li Weidong , Gao Zhiliang
Published: August 2023

Fermentation with Lactobacillus has been shown to improve the nutritional value of juice.
l-Lysine-induced green synthesis of CoS/Co3O4 nanoframes for efficient electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Hu Jinrui , Li Zhijuan , Zhao Dongsheng , Han Zheng , Wu Xiangrui , Zhai Jiayu , Liu Zhenyuan , Tang Yawen , Fu Gengtao
Published: August 2023

A green l-lysine-induced strategy is proposed for the fabrication of CoS/Co3O4 nanoframes as efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction.
Micro X-ray fluorescence reveals pore space details and spatially-resolved porosity of rock-based microfluidic devices
Authors: Frouté Laura , Guan Kelly M. , Yun Wenbing , Lewis Sylvia J. Y. , Stripe Benjamin D. , Yang Xiaolin , Lapene Alexandre , Kovscek Anthony R. , Creux Patrice
Published: August 2023

Micro X-ray fluorescence produces elemental images at μm resolution and offers insight into rock properties such as mineral composition and structure. This study presents a porosity mapping method using microfluidic devices and real-rock models.
Cross-linking reactions in Langmuir monolayers of specially designed aminolipids – a toolbox for the customized production of amphiphilic nanosheets
Authors: Stefaniu Cristina , Wölk Christian , Latza Victoria M. , Chumakov Andrei , Brezesinski Gerald , Schneck Emanuel
Published: August 2023

Mechanically stable nanosheets have been achieved by cross-linking reactions at the air/liquid interface. The monolayers and reactions are characterized by surface-sensitive techniques, and transferred Janus-faced films are investigated by TEM/SEM.
Redox mediator-enhanced charge storage in dimensionally tailored nanostructures towards flexible hybrid solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Mohanty Ritik , Parida Kaushik , Parida Kulamani
Published: August 2023

Redox mediator-amplified charge storage in a dimensionally engineered 2D GaN@1D ZnCo2O4 nanostructure towards high-performance flexible supercapacitors.
The isolation-biological activities (2014–2022), bio, semi, total synthesis (1978–2022) and SAR studies of a potential naturally engineered scaffold aristolactam
Authors: Reddy Mallu Chenna , Dey Ashutosh , Jeganmohan Masilamani , Padala Kishor
Published: August 2023

Aristolactams are a small group of aporphinoid alkaloids containing a phenanthrene chromophore that were first isolated from Aristolochia argentina (Aristolochiaceae), which is the richest source of this family of alkaloids.
Nucleic acid-functionalized nanozymes and their applications
Authors: Qin Yunlong , Ouyang Yu , Willner Itamar
Published: August 2023

Nucleic acid-modified nanozymes provide hybrid nanostructures that act as sensors, effective catalysts and bioreactor systems, DNA switches and catalysts for nano-biomedical applications.
Synthesis of a Pt3Sn catalyst using a solvothermal method assisted by deep eutectic solvents for selective hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol
Authors: Wang Ruonan , Ma Xuran , Ding Dairui , Huang Bowen , Zhu Zhiguo , Su Ting , Liao Weiping , Lü Hongying , Yang Kaixuan
Published: August 2023

A highly efficient PtSn0.5/CNTs-100 catalyst, synthesized using a one-pot solvothermal method with the assistance of DESs, demonstrated superior catalytic performance due to the synergistic catalysis of Pt3Sn and SnOx.
Sustainable photocatalytic C–H annulation of heteroarenes with sulfoxonium ylides: synthesis and photophysical properties of fused imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-based molecules
Authors: Sana Sravani , Dannarm Srinivas Reddy , Tokala Ramya , Dastari Sowmya , Sathish Manda , Kumar Rahul , Sonti Rajesh , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: August 2023

A sustainable visible light-mediated protocol for the synthesis of 6-aryl-derived naphtho/anthraimidazo [1,2-a]pyridine-based molecules has been achieved via Ru(ii) catalyzed C–H activation/annulation between heteroarenes and sulfoxonium ylides.
Photoinduced regioselective difluorination of secondary inert C(sp3)–H bonds in sulfonamides via 1,5-hydrogen-atom transfer
Authors: Chen Zhi , Zhu Wenkai , Wang Chaodong , Xu Ning , Jin Qianxi , Huang Xule , Song Shengjie , Li Jianjun
Published: August 2023

Difluorinated compounds are important structural motifs in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry because fluoride can modulate the properties of various molecules.
Synthesis of (Z)-alkenyl boronates via a copper(i)-catalyzed linear-selective alkylboration of terminal allenes
Authors: Ozawa Yu , Shiratori Yuma , Koriyama Hisao , Endo Kohei , Iwamoto Hiroaki , Ito Hajime
Published: August 2023

A copper(i)-catalyzed intermolecular alkylboration of terminal allenes using unactivated alkyl iodides as the carbon electrophiles is reported.
The potentials of boron-doped (nitrogen deficient) and nitrogen-doped (boron deficient) BNNT photocatalysts for decontamination of pollutants from water bodies
Authors: Itas Yahaya Saadu , Isah Kamaluddeen Abubakar , Nuhu Awwal Hussain , Razali Razif , Tata Salisu , K. A. Naseer , Idris Abubakr M. , Ullah Md. Habib , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin
Published: August 2023

This work investigates the structural, elastic, electronic, and photoabsorption properties of boron- (N-deficient) and nitrogen- (B-deficient) doped single-walled boron nitride nanotube (SWBNNT) for photocatalytic applications for the first time.
Synthesis of a novel hydrazone-based compound applied as a fluorescence turn-on chemosensor for iron(iii) and a colorimetric sensor for copper(ii) with antimicrobial, DFT and molecular docking studies
Authors: Rupa Sharmin Akther , Patwary Md Abdul Majed , Ghann William Emmanuel , Abdullahi Adams , Uddin A. K. M. Royhan , Mahmud Md. Mayez , Haque Md. Aminul , Uddin Jamal , Kazi Mohsin
Published: August 2023

A novel molecule 5-bromo-2-hydroxy-N′-[(1E)-1-(thiophen-2-yl)ethylidene]benzohydrazide (L) has been designed and synthesized. The sensing studies of L showed a ratio metric & turn-on-enhanced fluorescence and colorimetric response toward Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions respectively.
Applying green chemistry principles to iron catalysis: mild and selective domino synthesis of pyrroles from nitroarenes
Authors: Fessler Johannes , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: August 2023

An iron-catalysed cascade synthesis of pyrroles from nitroarenes was developed. The homogeneous catalyst shows remarkable activity at room temperature. Its wide functional group tolerance enables late-stage functionalization of drug(-like) molecules.
Nitrilium ion trapping as a strategy to access structurally diverse heterobiaryl-containing peptide macrocycles
Authors: Diamandas Matthew , Heller Nicholas W. , Yudin Andrei K.
Published: August 2023

Biaryl and heterobiaryl-containing cyclic peptides represent promising scaffolds for the development of bioactive molecules.
Integrated energy system operation considering building thermal inertia and hydrogen storage systems
Authors: Wang Yongli , Qin Yumeng , Wang Yanan , Ma Ziben , Zhao Zhonghua , Wang Yinuo
Published: August 2023

(1) An IES operation optimization system considering building thermal inertia and hydrogen energy storage systems is formed. (2) A hybrid particle swarm optimization-cuckoo search based on the beetle antennae search strategy (BPSO-CS) is proposed.
Strategic catalyst modification for boosting CO2 concentration at electrode surface and easing selective CO2 reduction at higher potential
Authors: Mandal Shuvojit , Kumar Praveen
Published: August 2023

PANI modification on the Bi flake surface enhances CO2 concentration at the electrode surface which slows down formate selectivity drop at higher potential as compared to bare Bi flakes.
Evaluating degradation of CO2 adsorbents in flue gas from bioenergy with carbon capture and storage
Authors: Holmes Hannah E. , Schreck Robert D. , Narayanan Pavithra , Ghosh Shreya , Sun Wenting , Realff Matthew J. , Lively Ryan P.
Published: August 2023

The stability of CO2 adsorbents in a Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) process was investigated through direct exposure to biomass combustion flue gas with pre- and post-characterization.
Scaling relationships between viscosity and diffusivity in shear-thickening suspensions
Authors: Singh Abhinendra , Saitoh Kuniyasu
Published: August 2023

Deformation leads to cooperative behavior in dense suspensions.
Graphene quantum dot doped viscoelastic lyotropic liquid crystal nanocolloids for antibacterial applications
Authors: Singh Prayas , Farheen  , Sachdev Surbhi , Manori Samta , Bhardwaj Sumit , Chitme Havagiray , Sharma Ashish , Raina Kuldeep Kumar , Shukla Ravi K.
Published: August 2023

Antibacterial study (a) control, negative control and GQDs (b) 10 : 90 wt% pure (S1) 5 mg (S2) and 10 mg (S3) GQDs/LLC nanocolloids (c) 30 : 70 wt% pure (S4), 5 mg (S5) and 10 mg (S6) GQDs/LLC nanocolloids and (d, e & f) Inhabitation image analysis.
White & grey biotechnologies for shaping a sustainable future
Authors: Roy Ipsita , Gupta Munishwar Nath
Published: August 2023

The developments in enzymology and biocatalytic processes designed as per the rules of green chemistry and green engineering are the keys to the concepts of biorefinery and bioeconomy which in turn enable sustainable development.
Correction: Removal of metals and inorganics from rendered fat using polyamine-modified cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Vidal Ezequiel , Alexis Frank , Camiña José M. , Garcia Carlos D. , Whitehead Daniel C.
Published: August 2023

Correction for ‘Removal of metals and inorganics from rendered fat using polyamine-modified cellulose nanocrystals’ by Ezequiel Vidal et al., RSC Sustain., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3SU00116D.
Band structure engineering of carbon nitride hybrid photocatalysts for CO2 reduction in aqueous solutions
Authors: Piercy Verity L. , Neri Gaia , Manning Troy D. , Pugliese Andrea , Blanc Frédéric , Palgrave Robert G. , Cowan Alexander J. , Rosseinsky Matthew J.
Published: August 2023

Band engineering of carbon nitride photocatalyst allows optimised electron transfer to a FeTCCP co-catalyst to generate CO from CO2 in water.
Recent progress in films with nanoengineered surfaces via bubble-induced self-assembly for energy applications
Authors: Chu Ben , Fu Benwei , Wang Ruitong , Cheng Weizheng , Tao Peng , Song Chengyi , Shang Wen , Deng Tao
Published: August 2023

Films with nanoengineered surfaces can be generated by the bubble-induced self-assembly (BISA) for a variety of energy-related applications.
Platinum based theranostics nanoplatforms for antitumor applications
Authors: Li Heying , Cheng Shaowen , Zhai Jingming , Lei Kun , Zhou Ping , Cai Kaiyong , Li Jinghua
Published: August 2023

Platinum (Pt) based nanoplatforms are biocompatible nanoagents with photothermal antitumor performance, while exhibiting excellent radiotherapy sensitization properties.
Crystalline-to-semicrystalline transition in lanthanide trifluoroacetates: implications for optical pressure and temperature sensing
Authors: Szlag Regina G. , Rabuffetti Federico A.
Published: August 2023

The discovery of a pressure-dependent, crystalline-to-semicrystalline, reversible transition in luminescent trifluoroacetates containing europium and terbium is reported. Its implications for optical pressure and temperature sensing are discussed.
Moiré superlattices of two-dimensional copper nanocluster assemblies with tuneable twin emissions from hierarchical components leading to white light emission
Authors: Das Priya , Chattopadhyay Arun
Published: August 2023

Chemically guided small angular stacking of two-dimensional copper nanocluster assemblies of hexagonal lattices leads to moiré superlattices with tuneable twin emissions.
Correction: Gd–Er interaction promotes NaGdF4:Yb, Er as a new candidate for high-power density applications
Authors: Avram Daniel , Patrascu Andrei A. , Istrate Marian Cosmin , Tiseanu Carmen
Published: August 2023

Correction for ‘Gd–Er interaction promotes NaGdF4:Yb, Er as a new candidate for high-power density applications’ by Daniel Avram et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3tc01391j.
A phased resource allocation algorithm for full‐duplex device‐to‐device communications underlaying cellular networks
Authors: Li Liang , Yang Xinjie , Ma Nan , Xiao Pei
Published: August 2023

Device‐to‐device (D2D) and full duplex (FD) technologies demonstrate immense potentials to improve the spectral efficiency of wireless networks. However, their synergistic combination to reap added benefits is proved to be technically challenging. This letter investigates the throughput‐maximization resource allocation problem for FD D2D communications underlaying cellular networks. The problem is decoupled into two subproblems, namely power allocation and channel assignment, which are solved by using a novel quadratic transform based scheme and the Kuhn–Munkres algorithm, respectively. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms existing ones in terms of overall system throughput.