bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro transcription of self-assembling DNA nanoparticles
Authors: Oh Chang Yong , Henderson Eric R.
Published: August 2023

Nucleic acid nanoparticles are playing an increasingly important role in biomolecular diagnostics and therapeutics as well as a variety of other areas. The unique attributes of self-assembling DNA nanoparticles provide a potentially valuable addition or alternative to the lipid-based nanoparticles that are currently used to ferry nucleic acids in living systems. To explore this possibility, we have assessed the ability of self-assembling DNA nanoparticles to be constructed from complete gene cassettes that are capable of gene expression in vitro. In the current report, we describe the somewhat counter-intuitive result that despite extensive crossovers (the stereochemical analogs of Holliday junctions) and variations in architecture, these DNA nanoparticles are amenable to gene expression as evidenced by T7 RNA polymerase-driven transcription of a reporter gene in vitro. These findings, coupled with the vastly malleable architecture and chemistry of self-assembling DNA nanoparticles, warrant further investigation of their utility in biomedical genetics.
Fine-grained cell-type specific association studies with human bulk brain data using a large single-nucleus RNA sequencing based reference panel
Authors: van den Oord Edwin J. C. G. , Aberg Karolina A.
Published: August 2023

Brain disorders are leading causes of disability worldwide. Gene expression studies provide promising opportunities to better understand their etiology but it is critical that expression is studied on a cell-type level. Cell-type specific association studies can be performed with bulk expression data using statistical methods that capitalize on cell-type proportions estimated with the help of a reference panel. To create a fine-grained reference panel for the human prefrontal cortex, we performed an integrated analysis of the seven largest single nucleus RNA-seq studies. Our panel included 17 cell-types that were robustly detected across all studies, subregions of the prefrontal cortex, and sex and age groups. To estimate the cell-type proportions, we used an empirical Bayes estimator that substantially outperformed three estimators recommended previously after a comprehensive evaluation of methods to estimate cell-type proportions from brain transcriptome data. This is important as being able to precisely estimate the cell-type proportions may avoid unreliable results in downstream analyses particularly for the multiple cell-types that had low abundances. Transcriptome-wide association studies performed with permuted bulk expression data showed that it is possible to perform transcriptome-wide association studies for even the rarest cell-types without an increased risk of false positives.
A novel approach to minimal reservoir computing
Authors: Ma Haochun , Prosperino Davide , Räth Christoph
Published: August 2023

Reservoir computers are powerful machine learning algorithms for predicting nonlinear systems. Unlike traditional feedforward neural networks, they work on small training data sets, operate with linear optimization, and therefore require minimal computational resources. However, the traditional reservoir computer uses random matrices to define the underlying recurrent neural network and has a large number of hyperparameters that need to be optimized. Recent approaches show that randomness can be taken out by running regressions on a large library of linear and nonlinear combinations constructed from the input data and their time lags and polynomials thereof. However, for high-dimensional and nonlinear data, the number of these combinations explodes. Here, we show that a few simple changes to the traditional reservoir computer architecture further minimizing computational resources lead to significant and robust improvements in short- and long-term predictive performances compared to similar models while requiring minimal sizes of training data sets.
Counteract severe heat stress by including different forms of zinc in the rabbit bucks’ diet
Authors: El-Gindy Yassmine Moemen , Zahran Soliman Mohamed , Ahmed Mohamed Hassan , Ali Ahmed Mohamed , Mohamed Asamaa Zaid , Morshedy Sabrin Abdel-rahman
Published: August 2023

The harmful influences of global warming on rabbit reproduction and industry attract global attention. Zinc (Zn) is an important trace element with a wide list of functions in the male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of different forms of zinc supplementation, as organic (Zn methionine), nano (nano Zn oxide) as indirect way to minimized it impact on environment, and inorganic (Zn sulphate) on physiological parameters, semen quality, anti-oxidative status, hormonal profiles of male rabbits subjected to server heat stress. Thirty-six V-line bucks (6–7 months old, 2842.29 ± 34.46 g weight) were randomly distributed to 4 groups, bucks in 1st group (control group, Con) fed basal diet without Zn supplementation, the 2nd, 3rd and 4th groups fed basial diet with 30 mg/kg of zinc methionine (Zn-Met), nano zinc oxide (ZnO-NPs), and zinc sulphate (Zn-S), respectively for a period of 10 weeks suffered from severe heat stress of environmental ambient temperature (over 32 of temperature humidity index, THI). Semen samples were collected and evaluated for volume, pH, motility, concentration, viability, initial fructose, and seminal plasma antioxidant concentration. Liver, kidney function, hormonal and antioxidant profile were measured in blood serum. The results revealed that, compared to control, all forms of Zn supplementation used significantly improved kidney function (creatinine), serum antioxidant (SOD and CAT), physiological parameters, especially on 1st month of the experiment, and seminal plasma antioxidant (SOD and CAT) of heat stressed bucks. Likewise, semen quality in terms of sperm concentration, sperm viability, and initial fructose enhanced significantly (P ≤ 0.05) by ZnO-NPs supplementation. Zinc methionine supplementation significantly improved liver function and decreased seminal plasma TBARs. Treatments with Zn-Met and ZnO-NPs increased seminal TAC and blood testosterone levels with reduced blood cortisol levels compared to other groups. Severe heat stress could be counteract by inclusion Zn with studied forms Zn-Met and ZnO-NPs at recommended dose (30 mg/kg diet) to improve semen quality and antioxidant status.
Passive anti-leakage of blue light for phosphor-converted white LEDs with crystal nanocellulose materials
Authors: Nguyen Quang-Khoi , Glorieux Benoit , Sebe Gilles , Yang Tsung-Hsun , Yu Yeh-Wei , Sun Ching-Cherng
Published: August 2023

A phenomenon known as "blue-light leakage" caused by overheating pcW-LEDs has recently been identified, and it poses a risk to users. This study focuses on investigating and optimizing a solution to address this issue. To tackle the problem of overheating and blue light leakage, we explored the application of a specific thermochromic material called crystal nano cellulose (CNC). We introduced CNC inside the epoxy lens of white LEDs. Importantly, under standard conditions, CNC has a negligible impact on the optical properties of the output white light. However, when overheating conditions arise, leading to blue light leakage, the temperature increase triggers a darkening effect in CNC. This thermochromic behavior of CNC allows it to strongly absorb the blue light, resulting in a significant suppression of the output luminous flux. As a result, the lamp dims, which not only prevents the user's eyes from being exposed to harmful bluish light but also serves as an indicator of aging in the pcW-LED. By implementing CNC as a responsive material in the design of white LEDs, this study offers a practical and effective solution to mitigate the negative effects of blue-light leakage caused by overheating. This improvement enhances the safety and comfort of users while also providing an early warning system for the aging of pcW-LEDs.
Bayesian inference of plasma parameters from collective Thomson scattering technique on a gas-puff near stagnation
Authors: Escalona M. , Valenzuela J. C. , Avaria G. , Veloso F. , Wyndham E. S.
Published: August 2023

The Collective Thomson scattering technique has been implemented to study the stagnation of a single liner gas-puff. The plasma parameters are determined by theoretically modelling the scattering form factor in combination with Bayesian inference to provide the set of the most probable parameters that describe the experimental data. Analysis of the data reveal that incoming flows are able to interpenetrate partially. Estimation of the mean free path shows a gradual transition from a weakly collisional to a collisional regime as the plasma gets to the axis. Furthermore, we find that the ion energy at $$\mathrm{r}=2.5\,\mathrm{mm}$$

r
=
2.5

mm

is $${13.6}_{-0.9}^{+1.0}\,\mathrm{keV}$$

13.6

-
0.9

+
1.0

keV

and is mostly kinetic in nature and represents $${98}_{-9}^{+10} \%$$

98

-
9

+
10

%

of the total energy. This kinetic energy is far greater than the value on axis of $${3.7}_{-0.5}^{+0.4}\,\mathrm{keV}$$

3.7

-
0.5

+
0.4

keV

which is $${84}_{-14}^{+15} \%$$

84

-
14

+
15

%

of the total energy. Energy transfer to the electrons and radiation losses are found to be negligible by this time. A possible explanation for this energy imbalance is the presence of an azimuthal magnetic field larger than $$\sim 4.7\,\mathrm{T}$$

∼
4.7

T

that deflect the ions vertically. The uncertainties quoted represent 68% credible intervals.
30-min decayless kink oscillations in a very long bundle of solar coronal plasma loops
Authors: Zhong Sihui , Nakariakov Valery M. , Miao Yuhu , Fu Libo , Yuan Ding
Published: August 2023

The energy balance in the corona of the Sun is the key to the long-standing coronal heating dilemma, which could be potentially revealed by observational studies of decayless kink oscillations of coronal plasma loops. A bundle of very long off-limb coronal loops with the length of $$736\pm 80$$

736
±
80

 Mm and a lifetime of about 2 days are found to exhibit decayless kink oscillations. The oscillations are observed for several hours. The oscillation amplitude is measured at 0.3–0.5 Mm, and the period at 28–33 min. The existence of 30-min periodicity of decayless kink oscillations indicates that the mechanism compensating the wave damping is still valid in such a massive plasma structure. It provides important evidence for the non-resonant origin of decayless kink oscillations with 2–6 min periods, i.e., the lack of their link with the leakage of photospheric and chromospheric oscillations into the corona and the likely role of the broadband energy sources. Magnetohydrodynamic seismology based on the reported detection of the kink oscillation, with the assistance of the differential emission measure analysis and a background coronal model provides us with a comprehensive set of plasma and magnetic field diagnostics, which is of interest as input parameters of space weather models.
Three-dimensional wormhole with cosmic string effects on eigenvalue solution of non-relativistic quantum particles
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we explore the quantum system of non-relativistic particles in a unique scenario: a circularly symmetric and static three-dimensional wormhole space-time accompanied by cosmic strings. We focus on a specific case where the redshift function $$\varPhi (r)$$

Φ
(
r
)

to be zero and defining the shape function as $$A(r)=\frac{b}{r^2}$$

A

(
r
)

=

b

r
2

. After establishing this background space-time, we investigate the behavior of a harmonic oscillator within the same wormhole context. By doing so, we observe the effects of the cosmic string and wormhole throat radius on the eigenvalue solution of the oscillator’s eigenvalue problem. The primary finding is that these cosmic features lead to modifications in the energy spectrum and wave functions of the system, breaking the degeneracy of energy levels that would typically be present in a more conventional setting. As a particular case, we present the specific energy level $$E_{1,\ell }$$

E

1
,
ℓ

and the corresponding wave function $$\psi _{1,\ell }$$

ψ

1
,
ℓ

, which are associated with the ground state of the quantum system. These results highlight the fascinating and unique properties of the harmonic oscillator in the background of a circularly symmetric, static wormhole space-time with cosmic strings.
Green innovation efficiency and multiple paths of urban sustainable development in China: multi-configuration analysis based on urban innovation ecosystem
Authors: Guo Jinguang , Fu Yu , Sun Xuefu
Published: August 2023

Enhancing the effectiveness of urban green innovation is a powerful strategy for advancing urban sustainability. A strong urban innovation ecosystem is a crucial building block for advancing urban green innovation’s effectiveness. We use the fsQCA method to investigate the pathways and models of innovation ecosystems to promote the green innovation efficiency of cities from a histological perspective, using 71 innovative cities in China as cases. This method is based on the DEA-SBM model to measure the green innovation efficiency of cities and the Necessary Conditions Analysis. According to our analysis, individual innovation factors are not required to increase urban green innovation efficiency. But cities with good openness can attract creative forces and foster open innovation, which is essential for producing high levels of green innovation efficiency in cities. The innovation subject-balanced development model, the innovation environment-innovation asset dual drive model, and the innovation subject-open drive model have all been identified as additional models to support urban innovation efficiency. Finally, we discovered that it is not possible to increase the efficiency of green innovation in the city when each innovation factor in the city is performing poorly, and when there is also a lack of innovation subject and system openness. This study attempts to offer fresh theoretical angles and a variety of urban low-carbon development pathways.
Mutations in DARS2 result in global dysregulation of mRNA metabolism and splicing
Authors: Guang S. , O’Brien B. M. , Fine A. S. , Ying M. , Fatemi A. , Nemeth C. L.
Published: August 2023

Leukoencephalopathy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and lactate elevation (LBSL) is a rare neurological disorder caused by the mutations in the DARS2 gene, which encodes the mitochondrial aspartyl-tRNA synthetase. The objective of this study was to understand the impact of DARS2 mutations on cell processes through evaluation of LBSL patient stem cell derived cerebral organoids and neurons. We generated human cerebral organoids (hCOs) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of seven LBSL patients and three healthy controls using an unguided protocol. Single cells from 70-day-old hCOs were subjected to SMART-seq2 sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to acquire high-resolution gene and transcript expression datasets. Global gene expression analysis demonstrated dysregulation of a number of genes involved in mRNA metabolism and splicing processes within LBSL hCOs. Importantly, there were distinct and divergent gene expression profiles based on the nature of the DARS2 mutation. At the transcript level, pervasive differential transcript usage and differential spliced exon events that are involved in protein translation and metabolism were identified in LBSL hCOs. Single-cell analysis of DARS2 (exon 3) showed that some LBSL cells exclusively express transcripts lacking exon 3, indicating that not all LBSL cells can benefit from the “leaky” nature common to splice site mutations. At the gene- and transcript-level, we uncovered that dysregulated RNA splicing, protein translation and metabolism may underlie at least some of the pathophysiological mechanisms in LBSL. To confirm hCO findings, iPSC-derived neurons (iNs) were generated by overexpressing Neurogenin 2 using lentiviral vector to study neuronal growth, splicing of DARS2 exon 3 and DARS2 protein expression. Live cell imaging revealed neuronal growth defects of LBSL iNs, which was consistent with the finding of downregulated expression of genes related to neuronal differentiation in LBSL hCOs. DARS2 protein was downregulated in iNs compared to iPSCs, caused by increased exclusion of exon 3. The scope and complexity of our data imply that DARS2 is potentially involved in transcription regulation beyond its canonical role of aminoacylation. Nevertheless, our work highlights transcript-level dysregulation as a critical, and relatively unexplored, mechanism linking genetic data with neurodegenerative disorders.
Examining the impact of cue similarity and fear learning on perceptual tuning
Authors: Zaman Jonas , Yu Kenny , Andreatta Marta , Wieser Matthias J. , Stegmann Yannik
Published: August 2023

Past research on the effects of associative aversive learning on discrimination acuity has shown mixed results, including increases, decreases, and no changes in discrimination ability. An animal study found that the type of learning experience determined the direction and extent of learning-induced changes. The current preregistered web-based study aimed to translate these findings to humans. Experiment 1 (N = 245) compared changes in stimulus discrimination between simple learning (only one oriented grating cue), coarse differential conditioning (physically distinct cues), and fine differential conditioning (physically similar cues) as well as to their three respective control groups. The discrimination task consisted of a two-alternative-forced-choice task with oriented grating stimuli. During learning, a specific orientation was paired with unpleasant pictures. Our analysis using generative modeling demonstrated weak to moderate evidence that aversive learning did not alter discrimination acuity in any of the groups. In a follow-up experiment (N = 121), we replicated these findings despite successful learning trajectories in all three groups and a more detailed assessment of discrimination acuity. Contrary to prior assumptions, our findings indicate that aversive learning does not enhance perceptual discrimination, and the presence of additional safety cues does not appear to moderate this effect.
Influence of the duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus on colorectal cancer outcomes
Authors: Herold Magdolna , Szasz Attila Marcell , Szentmartoni Gyongyver , Martinek Emoke , Madar-Dank Viktor , Barna Andras Jozsef , Mohacsi Reka , Somogyi Aniko , Dank Magdolna , Herold Zoltan
Published: August 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive disease, which affects colorectal cancer (CRC) survival. However, data on the relationship between CRC survival and T2DM duration is scarce and controversial. A retrospective observational study was conducted. Sub-cohorts were created based on the duration of T2DM as follows, ≤ or > 5/10/15/20 years. 204 of the 817 (24.95%) included study participants had T2DM at any point of CRC. 160 of the 204 CRC + T2DM patients had detailed T2DM duration data. At the time of CRC diagnosis, 85, 50, 31, and 11 patients had T2DM for > 5/10/15/20 years, respectively, which increased to 110, 71, 45, and 17 during the course of the study. Despite constant glycated hemoglobin values throughout the study, shorter overall and disease-specific survival times were observed for the > 5/10/15 years cohorts and longitudinal survival modeling techniques confirmed the significant effect of T2DM duration in all cohorts. While in the first 3 years after CRC diagnosis, the best survival was found for the ≤ 5 years cohort, all diabetes cohorts had the same survival thereafter. T2DM duration affected CRC survival significantly, therefore, a closer follow-up of this sub-populations is suggested.
Essential genes Ptgs2, Tlr4, and Ccr2 regulate neuro-inflammation during the acute phase of cerebral ischemic in mice
Authors: Jiang Hongxiang , Sun Zhiqiang , Zhu Xiwei , Li Fei , Chen Qianxue
Published: August 2023

Ischemic stroke (IS) is associated with changes in gene expression patterns in the ischemic penumbra and extensive neurovascular inflammation. However, the key molecules related to the inflammatory response in the acute phase of IS remain unclear. To address this knowledge gap, conducted a study using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) on two gene expression profiles, GSE58720 and GSE202659, downloaded from the GEO database. We screened differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using GEO2R and analyzed 170 differentially expressed intersection genes for Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment and Gene Ontology (GO) analysis. We also used Metascape, DAVID, STRING, Cytoscape, and TargetScan to identify candidate miRNAs and genes. The targeted genes and miRNA molecule were clarified using the mice middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion (MCAO/R) model. Our findings revealed that 170 genes were correlated with cytokine production and inflammatory cell activation, as determined by GO and KEGG analyses. Cluster analysis identified 11 hub genes highly associated with neuroinflammation: Ccl7, Tnf, Ccl4, Timp1, Ccl3, Ccr1, Sele, Ccr2, Tlr4, Ptgs2, and Il6. TargetScan results suggested that Ptgs2, Tlr4, and Ccr2 might be regulated by miR-202-3p. In the MCAO/R model, the level of miR-202-3p decreased, while the levels of Ptgs2, Tlr4, and Ccr2 increased compared to the sham group. Knockdown of miR-202-3p exacerbated ischemic reperfusion injury (IRI) through neuroinflammation both in vivo and in vitro. Our study also demonstrated that mRNA and protein levels of Ptgs2, Tlr4, and Ccr2 increased in the MCAO/R model with miR-202-3p knockdown. These findings suggest that differentially expressed genes, including Ptgs2, Tlr4, and Ccr2 may play crucial roles in the neuroinflammation of IS, and their expression may be negatively regulated by miR-202-3p. Our study provides new insights into the regulation of neuroinflammation in IS.
Patterns of attention deficit in relapsing and progressive phenotypes of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tabibian Farinaz , Azimzadeh Kiarash , Shaygannejad Vahid , Ashtari Fereshteh , Adibi Iman , Sanayei Mehdi
Published: August 2023

Behavioral aspects and underlying pathology of attention deficit in multiple sclerosis (MS) remain unknown. This study aimed to clarify impairment of attention and its relationship with MS-related fatigue. Thirty-four relapse-remitting MS (RRMS), 35 secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) and 45 healthy controls (HC) were included. Results of psychophysics tasks (attention network test (ANT) and Posner spatial cueing test) and fatigue assessments (visual analogue scale and modified fatigue impact scale (MFIS)) were compared between groups. In ANT, attentional network effects were not different between MS phenotypes and HC. In Posner task, RRMS or SPMS patients did not benefit from valid cues unlike HC. RRMS and SPMS patients had less gain in exogenous trials with 62.5 ms cue-target interval time (CTIT) and endogenous trials with 250 ms CTIT, respectively. Total MFIS was the predictor of gain in 250 ms endogenous blocks and cognitive MFIS predicted orienting attentional effect. Executive attentional effect in RRMS patients with shorter disease duration and orienting attentional effect in longer diagnosed SPMS were correlated with MFIS scores. The pattern of attention deficit in MS differs between phenotypes. Exogenous attention is impaired in RRMS patients while SPMS patients have deficit in endogenous attention. Fatigue trait predicts impairment of endogenous and orienting attention in MS.
Synthesis of valuable benzenoid aromatics from bioderived feedstock
Authors: Zheng Shasha , Wei Zhihong , Wozniak Bartosz , Kallmeier Fabian , Baráth Eszter , Jiao Haijun , Tin Sergey , de Vries Johannes G.
Published: August 2023

Aromatic chemicals play indispensable roles in our daily lives, having broad applications in household goods, textiles, healthcare, electronics and automotive, but their production currently relies on fossil resources that have heavy environmental burdens. Synthesis of aromatic chemicals from bio-based resources would be a viable approach to improve their sustainability. However, very few methods are available for achieving this goal. Here we present a strategy to synthesize aromatics from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), an organic compound derived from sugars under mild conditions. HMF was first converted in two high-yielding steps into 2,5-dioxohexanal (DOH), a novel C6-compound containing three carbonyl groups. Subsequently, acid-catalysed intramolecular aldol condensation of DOH in the presence of secondary amines selectively produced a range of bio-based 4-dialkylamino substituted phenols and 1,4-di-(dialkylamino)benzenes (Wurster’s blue analogues) in 15–88% yields. In the absence of amines, the industrially important hydroquinone was also synthesized from DOH under acidic conditions. Using a similar approach where 4,5-dioxohexanal was the intermediate, we were also able to prepare catechol, a compound with important industrial applications, from HMF. The proposed approach can pave the way for the production of sustainable aromatic chemicals and move their industrial applications closer to achieving a bioeconomy.
An oscillatory mechanism for multi-level storage in short-term memory
Authors: Champion Kathleen P. , Gozel Olivia , Lankow Benjamin S. , Ermentrout G. Bard , Goldman Mark S.
Published: August 2023

Oscillatory activity is commonly observed during the maintenance of information in short-term memory, but its role remains unclear. Non-oscillatory models of short-term memory storage are able to encode stimulus identity through their spatial patterns of activity, but are typically limited to either an all-or-none representation of stimulus amplitude or exhibit a biologically implausible exact-tuning condition. Here we demonstrate a simple mechanism by which oscillatory input enables a circuit to generate persistent or sequential activity that encodes information not only in the spatial pattern of activity, but also in the amplitude of activity. This is accomplished through a phase-locking phenomenon that permits many different amplitudes of persistent activity to be stored without requiring exact tuning of model parameters. Altogether, this work proposes a class of models for the storage of information in working memory, a potential role for brain oscillations, and a dynamical mechanism for maintaining multi-stable neural representations.
Realization of Wilson fermions in topolectrical circuits
Authors: Yang Huanhuan , Song Lingling , Cao Yunshan , Yan Peng
Published: August 2023

The Wilson fermion (WF) is a fundamental particle in the theory of quantum chromodynamics. Theoretical calculations have shown that the WF with a half skyrmion profile represents a quantum anomalous semimetal phase supporting a chiral edge current, but the experimental evidence is still lacking. In this work, we report a direct observation of the WF in circuit systems. We find that WFs manifest as topological spin textures analogous to the half skyrmion, half-skyrmion pair, and Néel skyrmion structures, depending on their mass. Transformations of different WF states are realized by tuning the electric elements. We further experimentally observe the propagation of chiral edge current along the domain-wall separating two circuits with contrast fractional Chern numbers. Our work provides experimental evidence for WFs in topolectrical circuits. The nontrivial analogy between the WF state and the skyrmionic structure builds an intimate connection between the two burgeoning fields.
Metabolic rewiring induced by ranolazine improves melanoma responses to targeted therapy and immunotherapy
Authors: Redondo-Muñoz Marta , Rodriguez-Baena Francisco Javier , Aldaz Paula , Caballé-Mestres Adriá , Moncho-Amor Verónica , Otaegi-Ugartemendia Maddalen , Carrasco-Garcia Estefania , Olias-Arjona Ana , Lasheras-Otero Irene , Santamaria Eva , Bocanegra Ana , Chocarro Luisa , Grier Abby , Dzieciatkowska M Monika , Bigas Claudia , Martin Josefina , Urdiroz-Urricelqui Uxue , Marzo Florencio , Santamaria Enrique , Kochan Grazyna , Escors David , Larrayoz Ignacio Marcos , Heyn Holger , D’Alessandro Angelo , Attolini Camille Stephan-Otto , Matheu Ander , Wellbrock Claudia , Benitah Salvador Aznar , Sanchez-Laorden Berta , Arozarena Imanol
Published: August 2023

Resistance of melanoma to targeted therapy and immunotherapy is linked to metabolic rewiring. Here, we show that increased fatty acid oxidation (FAO) during prolonged BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) treatment contributes to acquired therapy resistance in mice. Targeting FAO using the US Food and Drug Administration-approved and European Medicines Agency-approved anti-anginal drug ranolazine (RANO) delays tumour recurrence with acquired BRAFi resistance. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis reveals that RANO diminishes the abundance of the therapy-resistant NGFRhi neural crest stem cell subpopulation. Moreover, by rewiring the methionine salvage pathway, RANO enhances melanoma immunogenicity through increased antigen presentation and interferon signalling. Combination of RANO with anti-PD-L1 antibodies strongly improves survival by increasing antitumour immune responses. Altogether, we show that RANO increases the efficacy of targeted melanoma therapy through its effects on FAO and the methionine salvage pathway. Importantly, our study suggests that RANO could sensitize BRAFi-resistant tumours to immunotherapy. Since RANO has very mild side-effects, it might constitute a therapeutic option to improve the two main strategies currently used to treat metastatic melanoma.
Uncertainty in land-use adaptation persists despite crop model projections showing lower impacts under high warming
Authors: Molina Bacca Edna J. , Stevanović Miodrag , Bodirsky Benjamin Leon , Karstens Kristine , Chen David Meng-Chuen , Leip Debbora , Müller Christoph , Minoli Sara , Heinke Jens , Jägermeyr Jonas , Folberth Christian , Iizumi Toshichika , Jain Atul K. , Liu Wenfeng , Okada Masashi , Smerald Andrew , Zabel Florian , Lotze-Campen Hermann , Popp Alexander
Published: August 2023

Climate change is expected to impact crop yields and alter resource availability. However, the understanding of the potential of agricultural land-use adaptation and its costs under climate warming is limited. Here, we use a global land system model to assess land-use-based adaptation and its cost under a set of crop model projections, including CO2 fertilization, based on climate model outputs. In our simulations of a low-emissions scenario, the land system responds through slight changes in cropland area in 2100, with costs close to zero. For a high emissions scenario and impacts uncertainty, the response tends toward cropland area changes and investments in technology, with average adaptation costs between −1.5 and +19 US$05 per ton of dry matter per year. Land-use adaptation can reduce adverse climate effects and use favorable changes, like local gains in crop yields. However, variance among high-emissions impact projections creates challenges for effective adaptation planning.
A dual-response NIR fluorescent probe for separately and continuously recognizing H2S and Cys with different fluorescence signals and its applications
Authors: Yue Lisha , Ai Yin , Liu Gang , Ding Haichang , Pu Shouzhi
Published: August 2023

Given the significant interactions between hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and cysteine (Cys) in organisms, a dual-site multi-purpose fluorescent probe (Cy-NP) for H2S and Cys was synthesized.
Droplet-based μChopper device with a 3D-printed pneumatic valving layer and a simple photometer for absorbance based fructosamine quantification in human serum
Authors: Kayirangwa Yvette , Mohibullah Md , Easley Christopher J.
Published: August 2023

A droplet-based μChopper device was coupled to a photometer for blood analysis with a low-cost LED and photodiode. 3D printing was also used for all device fabrication and pneumatic valving.
Phospholipid headgroup composition modulates the molecular interactions and antimicrobial effects of sulfobetaine zwitterionic detergents against the “ESKAPE” pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Hilton Kira L. F. , Tolley Howard , Ortega-Roldan Jose L. , Thompson Gary S. , Sutton J. Mark , Hind Charlotte K. , Hiscock Jennifer R.
Published: August 2023

Using a combination of accessible multinuclear NMR techniques to quantify phospholipid membrane headgroup composition and molecular level mode of action.
Crystal environment induced symmetry reduction (CEISR): deep analysis of para-chloroacetophenone azine and generalization
Authors: Bhoday Harmeet , Yang Kaidi , Kelley Steven P. , Glaser Rainer
Published: August 2023

The central question of the paper concerns the CEISR effect in the case of symmetrical p-disubstituted acetophenone azines. We use intermolecular interaction inventory analyses to firmly establish the inequivalence or equivalence of the two arenes.
Polysulfide induced synthesis of a MoS2 self-supporting electrode with wide-layer-spacing for efficient electrocatalytic water splitting
Authors: Yu Ningbo , Wang Jianzhi , Yu Hongliang , Yang Daichunzi , Luo Wentao , Lin Xiao , Liu Yanping , Cai Ning , Xue Yanan , Yu Faquan
Published: August 2023

The S-r-DIB might function as an in situ intercalator and eventually exfoliate the MoS2 nanosheets.
Intramolecular dimer formation reveals anomalous solvation within fluorous solvent perfluorodecalin
Authors: Deepika  , Pandey Siddharth
Published: August 2023

Fluorous solvent perfluorodecalin (PFD) supports ground-state dimerization of BPP. The preferential solvation of a pyrene moiety by n-hexane in n-hexane-added PFD mixtures facilitates excimer formation only in the excited state.
Functionalized two-dimensional iron boride compounds as novel electrode materials in Li-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Haiyan , Fu Yiwen , Li Dan , Wei Mengjie , Wu Qinghua , Hu Qianku
Published: August 2023

Functionalized two-dimensional iron boride compounds exhibit high performance as novel electrode materials for Li-ion batteries.
Phase transition of titanium dioxide based on quantum dynamics
Authors: Zhang Bing , Chen Shengbin , Yang Yang , Luo Rui , Xia Yuangu , Wang Xiaogang , Lu Qiang , Hu Bin
Published: August 2023

The temperature induced brookite-columbite phase transition is a reconstructive phase transition dominated by the reconstruction of Ti atoms. The existence of the metastable phase in the formation of columbite phase has been confirmed by analysis.
New prebiotic molecules in the interstellar medium from the reaction between vinyl alcohol and CN radicals: unsupervised reaction mechanism discovery, accurate electronic structure calculations and kinetic simulations
Authors: Ballotta Bernardo , Martínez-Núñez Emilio , Rampino Sergio , Barone Vincenzo
Published: August 2023

The reaction between vinyl alcohol (VyA) and cyanide (CN) radical, a possible formation route of cyanoacetaldehyde in the interstellar medium (ISM).
Photophysics and charge transfer in oligo(thiophene) based conjugated diblock oligomers
Authors: Gobeze Habtom B. , Jagadesan Pradeepkumar , Schanze Kirk S.
Published: August 2023

The excited state properties of “diblock” π-conjugated oligomers are studied using steady-state and ultrafast time resolved optical spectroscopy. The excited state properties are dominated by charge-transfer between the oligo-thiophene and TBT units.
Multifunctional Ni3S2@NF-based electrocatalysts for efficient and durable electrocatalytic water splitting
Authors: Xu Xiaomei , Mo Qiaoling , Zheng Kuangqi , Xu Zhaodi , Cai Hu
Published: August 2023

Multifunctional Ni3S2@NF-based heterostructure electrocatalysts exhibit excellent electrocatalytic performance and superior stability in splitting water.
Co/CeO2/C composites derived from bimetallic metal–organic frameworks for efficient microwave absorption
Authors: Yao Zhiqian , Xu Suqiong , Zhang Xianke , Zhu Jiawei , Liao Peng , Yuan Jujun , Rong Chuicai , Liu Xiaoqing , Xiong Zuzhou , Kang Shuying , Kuang Fangguang
Published: August 2023

Co/CeO2/C shows an RLmin of −45.22 dB and an EAB of 4.61 GHz at 1.75 mm. The MA performance of Co/CeO2/C is mainly attributed to the dielectric loss due to interfacial polarization and dipole polarization caused by oxygen vacancies in CeO2.
Biomonitoring, exposure routes and risk assessment of chlorinated paraffins in humans: a mini-review
Authors: Liao Hanyu , Li Xue , Zhou Yuanyuan , Wu Yinyin , Cao Yifei , Yang Jun , Zhang Jianyun
Published: August 2023

CPs are extensively existed in human samples with increased M/S ratio. Dietary intake is the main source. The reported upper bound of EDIs may be close or exceed TDIs, thus further risk assessments are required.
Recent advances in plastic recycling and upgrading under mild conditions
Authors: Zhang Shengbo , Li Mei , Zuo Zhenyang , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: August 2023

This review summarizes the emerging advanced technologies including bio-, photo-, electro-, and low-temperature thermocatalysis for recycling and upgrading of waste plastics under mild conditions.
A synergistic interfacial and topological strategy for reinforcing aramid nanofiber films
Authors: Jin Jiongke , Wu Xun-En , Liang Huarun , Wang Haomin , Li Shuo , Lu Haojie , Bi Peng , Niu Jiali , Wu Yang , Zhang Yingying
Published: August 2023

An effective synergistic interfacial and topological enhancement strategy resulted in an increase of 4 and 10 times in strength and toughness of the aramid nanofiber film, along with remarkable tolerance to extreme temperatures and fatigue.
Material descriptors for thermoelectric performance of narrow-gap semiconductors and semimetals
Authors: Toriyama Michael Y. , Carranco Adam N. , Snyder G. Jeffrey , Gorai Prashun
Published: August 2023

Simple descriptors to search for low-temperature thermoelectric materials.
In situ fabrication of cerium-incorporated hydroxyapatite/magnetite nanocomposite coatings with bone regeneration and osteosarcoma potential
Authors: Priyadarshini B. , Stango Arul Xavier , Balasubramanian M. , Vijayalakshmi U.
Published: August 2023

With the ultimate goal of providing a novel platform able to inhibit bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation, and anticancer properties, cerium-doped hydroxyapatite films enhanced with magnetite were developed via spin-coating.
Comparative analysis of the physicochemical and anti-biofilm properties of iota and lambda carrageenan-capped silver nanocomposites synthesized using response surface methodology
Authors: Singh Khushboo Rani , Pathak Aakanksha , Poluri Krishna Mohan
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial resistance of microbes due to the formation of biofilms is a global industrial, environmental, and health concern.
Elucidating the mechanism and regioselectivity of phosphine-catalyzed transformation of MBH carbonate
Authors: Ye Juan , Luo Yilu , Huang Gailing , Wang Yang
Published: August 2023

A general mechanistic map of the PPh3-catalyzed transformation reaction of MBH carbonate has been theoretically studied and the NCI and ELF analyses are performed to disclose the origins of selectivities and the role of catalyst, respectively.
Removal efficiency of Pb(ii) by coal fly ash cenospheres@carbon nanotubes
Authors: Gao Hongjie , Zhang Xiaomin , He Bo , Zhang Liang , Wang Ke , Liu Jiaqian , Liu Bing , Wang Zhuang , Ma Jianxiang
Published: August 2023

High defect density CSs@CNTs with a 3D network structure were grown in situ on the surface of solid waste CSs by CVD. The prepared CSs@CNTs had a maximum adsorption capacity of 36.01 mg g−1 at pH = 6.
A paper sensor for unbound valproic acid detection in human serum
Authors: Jiang Xiaoqian , Qu Aihua , Xu Xinxin , Kuang Hua , Liu Liqiang , Xu Liguang , Xu Chuanlai
Published: August 2023

A paper sensor for unbound valproic acid detection in human serum.
Modulating multi-color room temperature phosphorescence emission for carbon dot composites with ultralong lifetime
Authors: Jie Yanni , Gao Yang , Wang Dong , Li Fuchun , Chen Runfeng , Feng Yongqiang , Li Wenqi , Fang Jiawen
Published: August 2023

Metal-free multi-color (blue, green, yellow, and brown) room temperature phosphorescent carbon dot composites with ultralong lifetime and high photoluminescence quantum yield have been synthesized.
Fabrication of polypyrrole-sensitized Ag3PO4/g-C3N4 Z-scheme heterojunction for photocatalytic and antibacterial activity
Authors: Chopan Nisar Ahmad , Bhat Aabid Hussain , Chishti Hamida-Tun-Nisa
Published: August 2023

Ag3PO4/PPy/g-C3N4 nanocomposite synthesized by hydrothermal and in situ chemical oxidation polymerization exhibits tremendous photocatalytic activity, and photo-antimicrobial activity under visible light irradiation.
Equipment-free determination of ascorbic acid based on the UV-induced oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine in a paper-based analysis device
Authors: Liu Xiaoxia , Hou Wenya , Zhao Jinzhong , Zhang Lili , Li Anping , Ma Ruiyan
Published: August 2023

A portable paper-based analysis device is developed for quantitative determination of ascorbic acid (AA) based on the UV-induced oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB).
PhI(OAc)2-mediated aminoacyloxylation of β,γ-unsaturated hydrazones using Togni reagent II as an acyloxyl precursor
Authors: Jiang Dong-Fang , Qi Zhenjie , Li Dengfeng , Wen Si-Miaomiao , Liu Zhao , Hao Wen-Juan , Jiang Bo
Published: August 2023

A metal-free protocol for the direct construction of C(sp2)–N and C–O bonds via a PhI(OAc)2-mediated dehydrogenative aminoacyloxylation of β,γ-unsaturated hydrazones with Togni reagent II is reported.
Enhancement of infrared absorption through a patterned thin film of magnetic field and spin-coating directed self-assembly of gold nanoparticle stabilised ferrofluid emulsion
Authors: Okpozo Paul , Dwivedi Yashashchandra , Huo Dehong , Pancholi Ketan
Published: August 2023

Molecular vibration signals were amplified by the gold strip gratings as a result of grating resonances and nearby electric field hotspots.
3D double-reinforced graphene oxide – nanocellulose biomaterial inks for tissue engineered constructs
Authors: Cernencu Alexandra I. , Vlasceanu George M. , Serafim Andrada , Pircalabioru Gratiela , Ionita Mariana
Published: August 2023

The advent of 3D printing technology has enabled the engineering of bone tissue for patient-specific healing and the fabrication of in vitro tissue models for ex vivo testing.
[Cs©C18]+and [Na©C14]+: perfect planar alkaline-metal-centered polyynic cyclo[n]carbon complexes with record coordination numbers
Authors: Zhang Min , Yuan Rui-Nan , Wu Yan-Bo , Chen Qiang , Wei Zhihong , Li Si-Dian
Published: August 2023

Extensive first-principles theory calculations predict the perfect planar alkaline-metal-centered polyynic cyclo[n]carbon complexesD9hCs©C18+andD7hNa©C14+with the record coordination numbers of CN = 18 and 14 in planar species.
Efficient full solar spectrum-driven photocatalytic hydrogen production on low bandgap TiO2/conjugated polymer nanostructures
Authors: Kutorglo Edith Mawunya , Schwarze Michael , Nguyen Anh Dung , Tameu Simon Djoko , Huseyinova Shahana , Tasbihi Minoo , Görke Oliver , Primbs Matthias , Šoóš Miroslav , Schomäcker Reinhard
Published: August 2023

The development of photocatalysts that can utilize the entire solar spectrum is crucial to achieving efficient solar energy conversion.
Thiyl radical induced cis/trans isomerism in double bond containing elastomers
Authors: Kaur Anureet , Gautrot Julien E. , Akutagawa Keizo , Watson Douglas , Bickley Alan , Busfield James J. C.
Published: August 2023

This report presents an evaluation of thiyl radical-induced cis/trans isomerism in double bond-containing elastomers, such as natural, polychloroprene, and polybutadiene rubbers.
Injectable fillers: current status, physicochemical properties, function mechanism, and perspectives
Authors: Guo Jiahong , Fang Wei , Wang Feifei
Published: August 2023

Injectable fillers have great potential in the correction of facial wrinkles and lines. The longevity of injectable fillers varies from 1 month to 5 years based on the physicochemical properties, fabrication strategy, and function mechanism.
Photoliquefaction and phase transition of m-bisazobenzenes give molecular solar thermal fuels with a high energy density
Authors: Morikawa Masa-aki , Yamanaka Yuta , Ho Hui Joseph Ka , Kimizuka Nobuo
Published: August 2023

(E,E)-m-bisazobenzenes show photoliquefaction to liquid Z-bisazobenzenes, which reveal exothermicity due to Z-to-E isomerization and liquid-to-solid phase changes, with a high gravimetric heat storage capacity of up to 392 J g−1.
Functionalization of polyethylene with hydrolytically-stable ester groups
Authors: Hervàs-Arnandis Susi , Palomar-de Lucas Brenda , Bilanin Cristina , Mingueza-Verdejo Paloma , Viciano Mónica , Oliver-Meseguer Judit , Leyva-Pérez Antonio
Published: August 2023

Polyethylene is functionalized with covalently anchored ester groups at high loadings, showing resistance to hydrolysis in water at extreme pHs and enabling further functionalizations.
Exploring bismuth-doped polycrystalline ceramic Ba0.75Bi0.25Ni0.7Mn0.3O3: synthesis, structure, and electrical properties for advanced electronic applications
Authors: Nassar Kais Iben , Tayari Faouzia , Benamara Majdi , Teixeira Silvia Soreto , Graça Manuel Pedro F.
Published: August 2023

This manuscript investigates the structural and electrical properties of a Ba0.75Bi0.25Ni0.7Mn0.3O3 (BNMO) perovskite compound synthesized through the sol–gel method.
Design and impact of a stoichiometry voluntary online course for entering first-year STEM college students
Authors: Díaz Brayan , Aizman Arie
Published: August 2023

The paper presents the design and evaluation of a voluntary online introductory stoichiometry (VOIS) course aimed at facilitating the transition from secondary to higher education. The course utilized simple analogies and adaptive feedback through a formative scaffolding assessment. The study assessed the effectiveness of the VOIS course through pre- and post-knowledge tests, analysis of students' performance in general chemistry, and course evaluation surveys conducted at a Latin American University between 2019 and 2021. A total of 3995 first-year STEM students enrolled in the course voluntarily, and 358 students successfully completed it. The results showed a statistically significant improvement in stoichiometry-related knowledge, with the pre–post test scores increasing from 4.61 to 6.55 out of 10. The matched sample analysis, which only included students with 100% participation, demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in stoichiometry and related knowledge from 5.31 to 6.61. Furthermore, an analysis comparing the performance of students who completed the VOIS course with those who didn't reveal that the former group outperformed the latter by an average of 10.6 points in the general chemistry course. This statistically significant difference exhibited a large effect size (d = 0.8). In addition, a matching technique was employed to construct a synthetic control group in order to reduce bias in the quasi-experimental design. A successful propensity score analysis was conducted, controlling for variables such as gender, grade in high school, scores in the national test, and student ranking in their high school. The results of this analysis showed a statistically significant improvement of 8.6 points in the general chemistry performance for students who completed the VOIS course compared to those who did not enroll in the course. Furthermore, the feedback from 129 respondents indicated that 80% of the students either liked the VOIS course or liked it very much, with an overall satisfaction rating of 3.1 on a four-point scale. In conclusion, the VOIS course demonstrated positive outcomes in terms of enhanced stoichiometry knowledge, academic performance, and student satisfaction. These findings highlight the potential of online courses like VOIS in facilitating the transition to higher education.
Structural and dynamic heterogeneity in associative networks formed by artificially engineered protein polymers
Authors: Rao Ameya , Olsen Bradley D.
Published: August 2023

This work investigates static gel structure and cooperative multi-chain motion in associative networks using a well-defined model system composed of artificial coiled-coil proteins.