bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Subauroral Polarization Streams on Storm‐Enhanced Density Plume and Consequently on Polar Tongue of Ionization
Authors: Li Shuhan , Liu Jing , Wang Wenbin , Liang Jun , Zhang Kedeng
Published: September 2023

The influences of subauroral polarization streams (SAPS) on storm‐enhanced density (SED) plume and consequently on polar tongue of ionization (TOI), an important topic in the field of magnetosphere‐ionosphere‐thermosphere coupling, however, remain undetermined. The Thermosphere‐Ionosphere‐Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIEGCM) with/without an empirical SAPS model has been used to investigate the impacts of SAPS on local ionosphere‐thermosphere system, which in turn affect the SED plume and consequently the TOI. The modeled total electron content and ion drift velocities agree reasonably well with the observations of Global Navigation Satellite System and Defense Meteorological Satellite Program satellites on 17 March 2013. The TIEGCM simulations show that SAPS can significantly affect the electron density of SED plume and consequently of TOI. The ionospheric‐thermospheric effect of SAPS can reduce the electron density of the SED plume in the afternoon sector and enhance the SED plume in the noon sector, which moves the SED plume dawnward. SAPS‐induced electron depletions in the throat region undergo anti‐sunward convection into the polar cap to weaken the TOI. A term‐by‐term analysis of the O+ ion continuity equation in the F‐region shows that the electron density depletions on the duskward edge of the SED plume are mainly due to the increased local plasma loss rates because of SAPS elevated plasma‐neutral temperatures and O/N2 reduction because of thermosphere upwelling. The electron density enhancements on the edge of the SED plume near noon are mainly due to the SAPS‐induced westward plasma E × B transports and the O/N2 increment because of thermospheric downwelling.
A Non‐Dimensional Index for Characterizing the Transition of Turbulence Regimes in Stable Atmospheric Boundary Layers
Authors: Shao Xin , Zhang Ning , Li Dan , Sun Jianning
Published: September 2023

The transition from moderate to weak turbulence regimes remains a grand challenge for stable boundary layer parameterizations in weather and climate models. In this study, a critical horizontal Froude number (≈0.28) is proposed to characterize such a transition, which corresponds to the development of quasi two‐dimensional pancake vortices. Traditionally defined stability parameters corresponding to the critical horizontal Froude number are estimated and are consistent with values in the literature. The critical horizontal Froude number can recover previously used height‐ and site‐dependent mean wind speed thresholds. These findings offer a way to constrain the validity range of Monin‐Obukhov similarity theory in numerical models for weather and pollutants dispersion.
The Dependence of Climate Sensitivity on the Meridional Distribution of Radiative Forcing
Authors: Zhang Bosong , Zhao Ming , He Haozhe , Soden Brian J. , Tan Zhihong , Xiang Baoqiang , Wang Chenggong
Published: September 2023

This study investigates how climate sensitivity depends upon the spatial pattern of radiative forcing. Sensitivity experiments using a coupled ocean‐atmosphere model were conducted by adding anomalous incoming solar radiation over the entire globe, Northern Hemisphere mid‐latitudes, Southern Ocean, and tropics. The varied forcing patterns led to highly divergent climate sensitivities. Specifically, the climate is nearly twice as sensitive to Southern Ocean forcing as tropical forcing. Strong coupling between the surface and free troposphere in the tropics increases the inversion strength, leading to smaller cloud feedback in the tropical forcing experiments. In contrast, the extratropics exhibit weaker coupling, a decrease or near‐zero change in the inversion strength, and strong positive cloud feedback. These results contrast with the conventional SST‐pattern effect in which tropical surface temperature changes regulate climate sensitivity. They also have important implications for other potentially asymmetric forcings, such as those from geoengineering, volcanic eruptions, and paleoclimatic changes.
The Ionospheric Response to the 2013 SSW Event Over the Asian‐Australian Sector
Authors: Fashae J. B. , Bolaji O. S. , Rabiu A. B. , Ajani O. O. , Fadiji J. O.
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the response of the Asian‐Australian low‐latitude ionosphere to the 2013 Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) event. The equatorial ionization anomaly structures were built from the latitudinal distribution of Total Electron Content (TEC) measured from 10 Global Positioning System receivers along 115°E in the Asian‐Australian sector. A pair of magnetometers and NASA Thermosphere‐Ionosphere‐Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics satellite airglow instrument were also employed to measure the equatorial electrojet strength (inferred E × B drift) and to unveil the changes in the neutral thermospheric O/N2 ratio during the SSW event, respectively. The relocation of the northern crests to higher latitudes during the SSW compared to the non‐SSW periods was mainly attributed to the combined effect of enhanced magnetometer‐inferred upward‐directed E × B drift and increasing solar flux. The local time shift in the thermospheric O/N2 ratio, a slight enhancement in the magnitude of the semi‐diurnal magnetometer‐inferred upward‐directed E × B drift, and changes in solar flux were primarily responsible for the hemispheric TEC enhancement during mid‐January compared to SSW onset. Additionally, the photo‐ionization effect due to increasing solar flux further enhances the TEC magnitude during the relaxing phase. On the other hand, the strong thermospheric equatorward wind played a crucial role in moving the plasma to lower latitudes during the zonal wind transition phases. A moderate geomagnetic storm of 17 January 2013 did not perturb the Asian‐Australian ionosphere. However, on 18 January 2013, the storm had a significant impact and greatly diminished the effect of the SSW.
Resolution of a Few Problems in the Application of Quasilinear Theory to Calculating Diffusion Coefficients in Heliophysics
Authors: Cunningham Gregory S.
Published: September 2023

A theory of quasilinear diffusion for obliquely propagating electromagnetic waves was developed in the 1960's and applied in the 1970's to model scattering of relativistic electrons by a prescribed distribution of waves. In the latter work, a transformation of variables, from wavevector space to the temporal frequency and tangent of the wave normal angle, was used so that simple Gaussian functions of frequency and tangent of the wave normal angle could be multiplied together to define the distribution of wave power, although arbitrary distributions of power in these two variables is also permitted. Finally, in 2005, previous work was consolidated and has been widely used in heliophysics studies that require computation of quasilinear diffusion coefficients. Here it is shown that this transformation is inppropriate when the precise wave vector distribution is known. The correct transformation is derived and used to produce diffusion coefficients that can differ by orders of magnitude from those computed using the inappropriate transformation. The differences are largest when the distribution of wave power extends to wave normal angles near the resonance cone. When the ratio of the plasma frequency to the gyrofrequency is large, only low energies (keV) are affected, but as the ratio decreases higher energies (MeV) also show differences. It is also shown that the derivation from the 1960's uses a notation that results in the diffusion coefficients depending on the distribution of wave power with respect to the wave azimuthal angle whereas there should be no such dependence.
Persistent Homology as a Heterogeneity Metric for Predicting Pore Size Change in Dissolving Carbonates
Authors: Thompson E. P. , Ellis B. R.
Published: September 2023

Accurate prediction of physical alterations in carbonate reservoirs under dissolution is critical for development of subsurface energy technologies. The impact of mineral dissolution on flow characteristics depends on the connectivity and tortuosity of the pore network. Persistent homology is a tool from algebraic topology that describes the size and connectivity of topological features. When applied to 3D X‐ray computed tomography (XCT) imagery of rock cores, it provides a novel metric of pore network heterogeneity. Prior works have demonstrated the efficacy of persistent homology in predicting flow properties in numerical simulations of flow through porous media. Its ability to combine size, spatial distribution, and connectivity information make it a promising tool for understanding reactive transport in complex pore networks, yet limited work has been done to apply persistence analysis to experimental studies on natural rocks. In this study, three limestone cores were imaged by XCT before and after acid‐driven dissolution flow‐through experiments. Each XCT scan was analyzed using persistent homology. In all three rocks, permeability increase was driven by the growth of large, connected pore bodies. The two most homogenous samples saw an increased effect nearer to the flow inlet, suggesting emerging preferential flow paths as the reaction front progresses. The most heterogeneous sample showed an increase in along‐core homogeneity during reaction. Variability of persistence showed moderate positive correlation with pore body size increase. Persistence heterogeneity analysis could be used to anticipate where greatest pore size evolution may occur in a reservoir targeted for subsurface development, improving confidence in project viability.
Hopes, concerns, satisfaction and regret in a precision medicine trial for childhood cancer: a mixed-methods study of parent and patient perspectives
Authors: Wakefield Claire E. , Hetherington Kate , Robertson Eden G. , Donoghoe Mark W. , Hunter Jacqueline D. , Vetsch Janine , Marron Jonathan M. , Tucker Katherine M. , Marshall Glenn M. , Broom Alexander , Haber Michelle , Tyrrell Vanessa , Malkin David , Lau Loretta , Mateos Marion K. , O’Brien Tracey A. , Ziegler David S.
Published: September 2023

Background

Paediatric precision oncology aims to match therapeutic agents to driver gene targets. We investigated whether parents and patients regret participation in precision medicine trials, particularly when their hopes are unfulfilled.

Methods

Parents and adolescent patients completed questionnaires at trial enrolment (T0) and after receiving results (T1). Parents opted-in to an interview at T1. Bereaved parents completed a questionnaire 6-months post-bereavement (T1B). We analysed quantitative data with R and qualitative data thematically with NVivo, before integrating all data for interpretation.

Results

182 parents and 23 patients completed T0; 108/182 parents and 8/23 patients completed T1; 27/98 bereaved parents completed T1B; and 45/108 parents were interviewed. At enrolment, participants held concurrent hopes that precision medicine would benefit future children and their child. Participants expressed concern regarding wait-times for receipt of results. Most participants found the trial beneficial and not burdensome, including bereaved parents. Participants reported high trial satisfaction (median scores: parents: 93/100; patients: 80/100). Participants expressed few regrets (parent median scores: parents: 10/100; bereaved parents: 15/100; patient regret: 2/8 expressed minimal regret).

Conclusions

Even when trial outcomes did not match their hopes, parents and patients rarely regretted participating in a childhood cancer precision medicine trial. These data are critical for integrating participants’ views into future precision medicine delivery.
Evaluating multi-cancer early detection tests: an argument for the outcome of recurrence-updated stage
Authors: Callister Matthew E. J. , Crosbie Emma J. , Crosbie Philip A. J. , Robbins Hilary A.
Published: September 2023

The advent of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests has the potential to revolutionise the diagnosis of cancer, improving patient outcomes through early diagnosis and increased use of curative therapies. The ongoing NHS-Galleri trial is evaluating an MCED test developed by GRAIL, and is using as its primary endpoint the absolute incidence of late-stage cancer. Proponents of this outcome argue that if the test reduces the number of patients with advanced, incurable cancer, it can be reasonably assumed to be benefitting patients by reducing cancer mortality. Here, we argue that this assumption may not always hold due to the phenomenon of micro-metastatic disease, and propose an adjustment to the trial outcome so that it may better reflect the expected effect of the test on cancer mortality.
Cortical Lewy body injections induce long-distance pathogenic alterations in the non-human primate brain
Authors: Teil Margaux , Dovero Sandra , Bourdenx Mathieu , Arotcarena Marie-Laure , Darricau Morgane , Porras Gregory , Thiolat Marie-Laure , Trigo-Damas Inés , Perier Celine , Estrada Cristina , Garcia-Carrillo Nuria , Herrero María Trinidad , Vila Miquel , Obeso José A. , Bezard Erwan , Dehay Benjamin
Published: September 2023

Aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) is the cornerstone of neurodegenerative diseases termed synucleinopathies, which include Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). These synucleinopathies are characterized by the deposit of aggregated α-syn in intracellular inclusions observable in neurons and glial cells. In PD and DLB, these aggregates, predominantly located in neurons, are called Lewy Bodies (LBs). These LBs are one of the pathological hallmarks of PD and DLB, alongside dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra. Previous studies have demonstrated the ability of PD patient-derived LB fractions to induce nigrostriatal neurodegeneration and α-syn pathology when injected into the striatum or the enteric nervous system of non-human primates. Here, we report the pathological consequences of injecting these LB fractions into the cortex of non-human primates. To this end, we inoculated mesencephalic PD patient-derived LB fractions into the prefrontal cortex of baboon monkeys terminated one year later. Extensive analyses were performed to evaluate pathological markers known to be affected in LB pathologies. We first assessed the hypothesized presence of phosphorylated α-syn at S129 (pSyn) in the prefrontal cortices. Second, we quantified the neuronal, microglial, and astrocytic cell survival in the same cortices. Third, we characterized these cortical LB injections’ putative impact on the integrity of the nigrostriatal system. Overall, we observed pSyn accumulation around the injection site in the dorsal prefrontal cortex, in connected cortical regions, and further towards the striatum, suggesting α-syn pathological propagation. The pathology was also accompanied by neuronal loss in these prefrontal cortical regions and the caudate nucleus, without, however, loss of nigral dopamine neurons. In conclusion, this pilot study provides novel data demonstrating the toxicity of patient-derived extracts, their potential to propagate from the cortex to the striatum in non-human primates, and a possible primate model of DLB.
Ligament injury in adult zebrafish triggers ECM remodeling and cell dedifferentiation for scar-free regeneration
Authors: Anderson Troy , Mo Julia , Gagarin Ernesto , Sherwood Desmarie , Blumenkrantz Maria , Mao Eric , Leon Gianna , Levitz Hailey , Chen Hung-Jhen , Tseng Kuo-Chang , Fabian Peter , Crump J. Gage , Smeeton Joanna
Published: September 2023

After traumatic injury, healing of mammalian ligaments is typically associated with fibrotic scarring as opposed to scar-free regeneration. In contrast, here we show that the ligament supporting the jaw joint of adult zebrafish is capable of rapid and complete scar-free healing. Following surgical transection of the jaw joint ligament, we observe breakdown of ligament tissue adjacent to the cut sites, expansion of mesenchymal tissue within the wound site, and then remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM) to a normal ligament morphology. Lineage tracing of mature ligamentocytes following transection shows that they dedifferentiate, undergo cell cycle re-entry, and contribute to the regenerated ligament. Single-cell RNA sequencing of the regenerating ligament reveals dynamic expression of ECM genes in neural-crest-derived mesenchymal cells, as well as diverse immune cells expressing the endopeptidase-encoding gene legumain. Analysis of legumain mutant zebrafish shows a requirement for early ECM remodeling and efficient ligament regeneration. Our study establishes a new model of adult scar-free ligament regeneration and highlights roles of immune-mesenchyme cross-talk in ECM remodeling that initiates regeneration.
Family caregivers’ abusive behaviour and its association with internalized stigma of people living with schizophrenia in China
Authors: Li Yilu , Qiu Dan , Wu Qiuyan , Ni Anyan , Tang Zixuan , Xiao Shuiyuan
Published: September 2023

Family caregiving of people living with schizophrenia (PLS) can be burdensome, and some family caregivers may perpetrate abusive behavior that could be harmful to PLS. This study aims to examine the association of family caregivers’ abusive behavior with internalized stigma of PLS and draw attention to this problem. PLS were recruited from four cities across China and completed measures of abusive behavior and internalized stigma. Linear regression analyses were used to determine the association between family caregivers’ abusive behavior and internalized stigma of PLS. A total of 693 PLS were include in this study. 22.7% of the participants had experienced one or more of the abusive behaviors perpetrated by family caregivers. The most common type of abusive behavior towards PLS was verbal abuse and 4.2% of the participants reported physical abuse. 44.6 % of participants reported a high level of internalized stigma. PLS who experienced any abusive behavior by family caregivers had significantly higher levels of internalized stigma. Family caregivers’ abusive behavior is positively associated with alienation and social withdrawal but not with stereotype endorsement and discrimination of PLS. To end all forms of stigma and discrimination against PLS, more attention needs to be paid to the families of PLS.
On strata damage and stress disturbance induced by coal mining based on physical similarity simulation experiments
Authors: Yang Yi , Li Yingchun , Wang Lujun , Wu Yang
Published: September 2023

Extensive studies have been conducted on the movement of overlying strata when a single coal seam is mined. However, structural characteristics and associated stress field variation of the overlying strata over multiple coal seam mining remain unclear. Here we performed physical modelling experiments analogous to No. 42108 working face of Buertai coal mine, Shendong coalfield, where No. 22 coal seam (2.9 m thickness) was mined first, preceding No. 42 upper coal seam (6.1 m thickness) with an inter-coal-seam distance of 72.8 m. We employed DIC (digital image correlation) measurement and systematically-laid pressure cells to visualize the overlying strata movement and monitor stress field variations over multiple coal seam mining. We found that the stress of the inter-coal-seam strata increased significantly in the late mining stage of No. 22 coal seam due to the strata collapse, and culminated after compaction of the caved blocks. The inter-coal-seam strata stress gradually decreased over mining of No. 42 upper coal seam and arrived at zero after the inter-coal-seam strata collapsed. The mining of No. 42 upper coal seam aggravated the roof settlement of No. 22 coal seam; and the floor stress was noticeably lower than that of No. 22 coal seam due to the pressure-relief caused by the former mining activity. Our physical modelling findings advanced our understanding on structural characteristics and stress evolutions of overlying strata over multiple coal seam mining and offered guidance for prediction and mitigation of strata movement associated disasters in underground coal mining with geomechanical and mining conditions similar to those of Buertai coal mine.
Adverse event signal extraction from cancer patients’ narratives focusing on impact on their daily-life activities
Authors: Nishioka Satoshi , Asano Masaki , Yada Shuntaro , Aramaki Eiji , Yajima Hiroshi , Yanagisawa Yuki , Sayama Kyoko , Kizaki Hayato , Hori Satoko
Published: September 2023

Adverse event (AE) management is important to improve anti-cancer treatment outcomes, but it is known that some AE signals can be missed during clinical visits. In particular, AEs that affect patients’ activities of daily living (ADL) need careful monitoring as they may require immediate medical intervention. This study aimed to build deep-learning (DL) models for extracting signals of AEs limiting ADL from patients’ narratives. The data source was blog posts written in Japanese by breast cancer patients. After pre-processing and annotation for AE signals, three DL models (BERT, ELECTRA, and T5) were trained and tested in three different approaches for AE signal identification. The performances of the trained models were evaluated in terms of precision, recall, and F1 scores. From 2,272 blog posts, 191 and 702 articles were identified as describing AEs limiting ADL or not limiting ADL, respectively. Among tested DL modes and approaches, T5 showed the best F1 scores to identify articles with AE limiting ADL or all AE: 0.557 and 0.811, respectively. The most frequent AE signals were “pain or numbness”, “fatigue” and “nausea”. Our results suggest that this AE monitoring scheme focusing on patients’ ADL has potential to reinforce current AE management provided by medical staff.
Neospora caninum infection in dairy cattle in Egypt: a serosurvey and associated risk factors
Authors: Selim Abdelfattah , Alshammari Ayed , Gattan Hattan S. , Marzok Mohamed , Salem Mohamed , AL-Jabr Omar A.
Published: September 2023

Neospora caninum (N. caninum) is one of the causative agents that causing cattle abortion, and severe economic losses. Due to the scarcity of data on N. caninum infection in Egyptian cattle, the purpose of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence and determine the risk factors for parasite infection. In four governorates in northern Egypt, 540 blood samples from cattle were taken, and tested using a commercial ELISA kit. The overall seroprevalence of N. caninum in examined cattle was 28.89%. A multivariate logistic regression model determined that age (OR = 2.63, P < 0.001), manual milking (OR = 1.39, P = 0.14), abortion history (OR = 2.78, P < 0.0001), repetition of estrus (OR = 2.31, P < 0.0001), and contact with dogs (OR = 2.57, P < 0.0001) were significant risk factors. The findings proved that N. caninum infection was one of the factors contributing to abortion and financial losses in dairy cattle in Egypt. Therefore, the application of sanitary security and control programs is very important in dairy farms.
Meta-Topolin-induced mass shoot multiplication and biosynthesis of valuable secondary metabolites in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni bioreactor culture
Authors: Ptak Agata , Szewczyk Agnieszka , Simlat Magdalena , Błażejczak Alicja , Warchoł Marzena
Published: September 2023

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni possesses various medicinal and food industrial applications. This study is the first to explore the effect of the cytokinins meta-Topolin (mT; 6-(3-hydroxybenzylamino) purine), zeatin, kinetin, and BAP (6-benzylaminopurine) at concentrations of 0 (control), 5, 10, and 15 µM on shoot multiplication, as well as stevioside, rebaudioside A, phenolic acid, and flavonoid content in bioreactor cultures. The highest number of shoots (23.4 per explant) was obtained in the medium containing 5 μM of mT. However, 15 μM of mT was superior for fresh biomass production and dry biomass accumulation. Reversed-phase (RP)-HPLC analysis showed a beneficial effect of 5 μM mT on stevioside (11.43 mg/g dry weight [DW]) and rebaudioside A (10.74 mg/g DW) biosynthesis. In all conditions, the ratio of rebaudioside A/stevioside ranged from 0.75 to 1.12. The phenolic acids chlorogenic, neochlorogenic, isochlorogenic A, and rosmarinic were confirmed in the stevia extracts, as were the flavonoids isoquercetin, and quercitrin. The highest accumulations of chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acids and flavonoids were observed in shoot tissues derived from 5 µM mT, whereas 5 µM of BAP stimulated biosynthesis of chlorogenic, isochlorogenic A, and rosmarinic acids. This is the first report on the use of mT-cytokinin showing high potential in stevia cultures.
Effect of functional resistance training on the structure and function of the heart and liver in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver
Authors: Jafarikhah Ramin , Damirchi Arsalan , Rahmani Nia Farhad , Razavi-Toosi Seyyed Mohammad Taghi , Shafaghi Afshin , Asadian Mostafa
Published: September 2023

The current study is of the quasi-experimental type, with a pre-and post-test design, and subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: control (n = 8) and experimental (test) (n = 8). Based on the patient's self-report and using daily diet control tables, the patient's diet planning percentage of energy supply was managed and controlled for 3 days. The protocol for functional resistance training for these circular exercises, including the squat, lunge, bear crawl, rock press, jumping jack, and back fly lunge, was performed three times per week without specialized apparatus. Ejection fraction (EF) and fractional shortening (FS) were measured before and after functional resistance training, using echocardiography. Liver Stiffness and steatosis were measured using FibroScan, and the liver function was determined using biochemical assays. The average age of patients in the control group and the test group were 46.02 ± 5.4 and 48.6 ± 2.51, respectively. Pre-test and post-test of the body mass index were 32.06 ± 5.06 and 30.02 ± 3.97, and for the body fat percentage were 33.65 ± 6.09 and 25.41 ± 4.99. In non-alcoholic fatty liver patients, due to functional resistance training, EF (p-value = 0.003) and FS (p-value = 0.03) significantly increased, and C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) (p-value = 0.001), steatosis (p-value = 0.04), and stiffness (p-value = 0.01) decreased. According to the results and without considering clinical trials, functional resistance training affects the structure and function of the heart and Liver in NAFLD patients.
The role of a low protein diet supplemented with ketoanalogues on kidney progression in pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Ariyanopparut Saravanee , Metta Kamonchanok , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Eiam-Ong Somchai , Kittiskulnam Piyawan
Published: September 2023

In slowing kidney progression, numerous pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients could not adhere to the well-established dietary pattern, including a very low protein diet, 0.3–0.4 g/kg/day, plus a full dose ketoanalogues (KAs) of amino acids. We evaluated the role of a low protein diet (LPD), 0.6–0.8 g/kg/day, combined with KAs (LPD–KAs) on CKD progression. We extracted data in the retrospective cohort using electronic medical records (n = 38,005). Participants with LPD–KAs for longer than six months were identified. An unmatched control group, LPD alone, was retrieved from the same database. Cox proportional hazard models were performed to examine the associations between LPD–KAs and outcomes. The primary outcome was either a rapid estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline > 5 mL/min/1.73m2/year or commencing dialysis. Other secondary outcomes include changes in proteinuria, serum albumin, and other metabolic profiles were also assessed. A total of 1042 patients were finally recruited (LPD–KAs = 543). Although patients with LPD–KAs had significantly lower eGFR and a prevalence of diabetes, age, and dietary protein intake were comparable between LPD–KAs (0.7 ± 0.2 g/kg/day) and LPD alone groups (0.7 ± 0.3 g/kg/day, p = 0.49). During a median follow-up of 32.9 months, patients treated with LPD–KAs had a significantly lower risk of kidney function decline (HR 0.13; 95% CI 0.09–0.19, p < 0.001) and dialysis initiation (HR 0.24; 95% CI 0.12–0.49, p < 0.001) than LPD alone after adjusting for confounders. The annual rate of eGFR decline in patients receiving LPD–KAs was 4.5 [3.4–5.5] mL/min/1.73m2 compared with 7.7 [6.0–9.4] mL/min/1.73m2 in LPD alone (p = 0.001). According to KAs dose–response analysis, the daily dose of ≤ 5 tablets was conversely associated with a higher risk of the primary endpoint, whereas the association disappeared among patients receiving a dose of > 6 tablets. The spot urine protein creatinine ratio and serum phosphate levels were not significantly different between groups. LPD–KAs could retard kidney progression compared with LPD alone. This favorable effect was significant among CKD patients receiving a daily KAs dose of more than six tablets. Future randomized controlled trials should be performed to verify these findings.
Intensification of Arabian Sea cyclone genesis potential and its association with Warm Arctic Cold Eurasia pattern
Authors: Vidya P. J. , Chatterjee Sourav , Ravichandran M. , Gautham S. , Nuncio M. , Murtugudde R.
Published: September 2023

The present study examines the drivers of the observed increasing trend in the Genesis Potential Index (GPI) of the post-monsoon season (October-November-December) tropical cyclones in the Arabian Sea (AS) during the period, 1998–2021. The increase in atmospheric moisture loading, ocean heat content in the upper 300 m (OHC300) and reduction in vertical wind shear are the major factors which caused the intensification in cyclone GPI in the recent decades. The increase in atmospheric moisture loading and OHC300 are consistent with the overall observed ocean warming trend of the region. However, the reduction in vertical wind shear has resulted from an anomalous large-scale upper atmospheric anticyclonic circulation over central India. Further investigation shows a concurrent transition of the Warm Arctic Cold Eurasia (WACE) pattern to its positive phase which strengthened and shifted the Subtropical Jet (STJ) poleward. This resulted in the anticyclonic circulation anomaly and altered the upper tropospheric zonal winds over the AS cyclone genesis region, weakening the vertical wind shear. The study demonstrates a possible physical mechanism through which remote forcing due to changes in the northern high-latitude climate can influence the AS cyclone genesis.
Deep learning driven de novo drug design based on gastric proton pump structures
Authors: Abe Kazuhiro , Ozako Mami , Inukai Miki , Matsuyuki Yoe , Kitayama Shinnosuke , Kanai Chisato , Nagai Chiaki , Gopalasingam Chai C. , Gerle Christoph , Shigematsu Hideki , Umekubo Nariyoshi , Yokoshima Satoshi , Yoshimori Atsushi
Published: September 2023

Existing drugs often suffer in their effectiveness due to detrimental side effects, low binding affinity or pharmacokinetic problems. This may be overcome by the development of distinct compounds. Here, we exploit the rich structural basis of drug-bound gastric proton pump to develop compounds with strong inhibitory potency, employing a combinatorial approach utilizing deep generative models for de novo drug design with organic synthesis and cryo-EM structural analysis. Candidate compounds that satisfy pharmacophores defined in the drug-bound proton pump structures, were designed in silico utilizing our deep generative models, a workflow termed Deep Quartet. Several candidates were synthesized and screened according to their inhibition potencies in vitro, and their binding poses were in turn identified by cryo-EM. Structures reaching up to 2.10 Å resolution allowed us to evaluate and re-design compound structures, heralding the most potent compound in this study, DQ-18 (N-methyl-4-((2-(benzyloxy)-5-chlorobenzyl)oxy)benzylamine), which shows a Ki value of 47.6 nM. Further high-resolution cryo-EM analysis at 2.08 Å resolution unambiguously determined the DQ-18 binding pose. Our integrated approach offers a framework for structure-based de novo drug development based on the desired pharmacophores within the protein structure.
Carbon dioxide and nitrate co-electroreduction to urea on CuOxZnOy
Authors: Anastasiadou Dimitra , Ligt Bianca , He Yunyang , van de Poll Rim C. J. , Simons Jérôme F. M. , Figueiredo Marta Costa
Published: September 2023

Urea is a commonly used nitrogen fertiliser synthesised from ammonia and carbon dioxide using thermal catalysis. This process results in high carbon dioxide emissions associated with the required amounts of ammonia. Electrocatalysis provides an alternative method to urea production with reduced carbon emissions while utilising waste products like nitrate. This manuscript reports on urea synthesis from the electroreduction of nitrate and carbon dioxide using CuOxZnOy electrodes under mild conditions. Catalysts with different ratios of CuO and ZnO, synthesised via flame spray pyrolysis, were explored for the reaction. The results revealed that all the CuOxZnOy electrocatalyst compositions produce urea, but the efficiency strongly depends on the metal ratio composition of the catalysts. The CuO50ZnO50 composition had the best performance in terms of selectivity (41% at −0.8 V vs RHE) and activity (0.27 mA/cm2 at −0.8 V vs RHE) towards urea production. Thus, this material is one of the most efficient electrocatalysts for urea production reported so far. This study systematically evaluates bimetallic catalysts with varying compositions for urea synthesis from carbon dioxide and nitrate.
Tera-sample-per-second arbitrary waveform generation in a synthetic dimension
Authors: Guan Yiran , Zhang Jiejun , Li Lingzhi , Cao Ruidong , Wang Guangying , Chen Jingxu , Wang Xudong , Guan Bai-Ou , Yao Jianping
Published: September 2023

Synthetic dimension opens new horizons in quantum physics and topological photonics by enabling new dimensions for field and particle manipulations. The most appealing property of the photonic synthetic dimension is its ability to emulate high-dimensional optical behavior in a unitary physical system. Here we show that the photonic synthetic dimension can transform technical problems in photonic systems between dimensionalities, providing unexpected solutions to technical problems that are otherwise challenging. Specifically, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a fully reconfigurable photonic Galton board (PGB) in the temporal synthetic dimension, in which the temporal high-speed challenge is translated into a spatial fiber-optic length matching problem, leading to the generation of tera-sample-per-second arbitrary waveforms with ultimate flexibility. In the experiments, an arbitrary waveform with a widely tunable sampling rate, ranging from 10.42 GSa/s to a record high of 1.64 TSa/s, is demonstrated. The concept of dimension conversion offers possible solutions to various physical dimension-related problems, such as super-resolution imaging, high-resolution spectroscopy, and high-precision time measurement.
Electron flux is a key determinant of uranium isotope fractionation during bacterial reduction
Authors: Brown Ashley R. , Molinas Margaux , Roebbert Yvonne , Sato Ataru , Abe Minori , Weyer Stefan , Bernier-Latmani Rizlan
Published: September 2023

Uranium isotopic signatures in the rock record are utilized as a proxy for past redox conditions on Earth. However, these signatures display significant variability that complicates the interpretation of specific redox conditions. Using the model uranium-reducing bacterium, Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, we show that the abundance of electron donors (e.g., labile organic carbon) controls uranium isotope fractionation, such that high electron fluxes suppress fractionation. Further, by purifying a key uranium-reducing enzyme, MtrC, we show that the magnitude of fractionation is explicitly controlled by the protein redox state. Finally, using a mathematical framework, we demonstrate that these differences in fractionation arise from the propensity for back-reaction throughout the multi-step reduction of hexavalent uranium. To improve interpretations of observed fractionations in natural environments, these findings suggest that a variable intrinsic fractionation factor should be incorporated into models of uranium isotope systematics to account for differences in electron flux caused by organic carbon availability.
Linking bacterial tetrabromopyrrole biosynthesis to coral metamorphosis
Authors: Alker Amanda T , Farrell Morgan V , Demko Alyssa M , Purdy Trevor N , Adak Sanjoy , Moore Bradley S , Sneed Jennifer M , Paul Valerie J , Shikuma Nicholas J
Published: September 2023

An important factor dictating coral fitness is the quality of bacteria associated with corals and coral reefs. One way that bacteria benefit corals is by stimulating the larval to juvenile life cycle transition of settlement and metamorphosis. Tetrabromopyrrole (TBP) is a small molecule produced by bacteria that stimulates metamorphosis with and without attachment in a range of coral species. A standing debate remains, however, about whether TBP biosynthesis from live Pseudoalteromonas bacteria is the primary stimulant of coral metamorphosis. In this study, we create a Pseudoalteromonas sp. PS5 mutant lacking the TBP brominase gene, bmp2. Using this mutant, we confirm that the bmp2 gene is critical for TBP biosynthesis in Pseudoalteromonas sp. PS5. Mutation of this gene ablates the bacterium’s ability in live cultures to stimulate the metamorphosis of the stony coral Porites astreoides. We further demonstrate that expression of TBP biosynthesis genes is strongest in stationary and biofilm modes of growth, where Pseudoalteromonas sp. PS5 might exist within surface-attached biofilms on the sea floor. Finally, we create a modular transposon plasmid for genomic integration and fluorescent labeling of Pseudoalteromonas sp. PS5 cells. Our results functionally link a TBP biosynthesis gene from live bacteria to a morphogenic effect in corals. The genetic techniques established here provide new tools to explore coral-bacteria interactions and could help to inform future decisions about utilizing marine bacteria or their products for coral restoration.
ATP-responsive Mn(ii)-based T1 contrast agent for MRI
Authors: Anbu Sellamuthu , Kenning Lawerence , Stasiuk Graeme J.
Published: September 2023

A manganese(ii)-based ATP-responsive chelate was developed for MRI (T1) contrast applications.
Magnetic field-assisted fabrication of quasi-bilayered, multi-responsive and patternable actuators
Authors: Lu Yiping , Wu Jun , Chen Wenjiang , Pan Hu , Wang Yuan , Gao Shumei , Dong Huichen , Wang Yan , Zhou Jin , Huang Hong
Published: September 2023

A quasi-bilayered, multi-responsive, and patternable actuator composed of Fe3O4-decorated graphene oxide and polyvinylidene fluoride was reported.
Near zero-strain silicon oxycarbide interphases for stable Li-ion batteries
Authors: Yeom Su Jeong , Wi Tae-Ung , Jung Soon-Jae , Kim Myeong Seon , Jeon Sang-Chae , Lee Hyun-Wook
Published: September 2023

Silicon oxycarbide, as confirmed by in situ TEM, exhibits near-zero volume expansion strain during lithiation, resulting in reduced electrolyte uptake.
A narrow-band deep-blue MRTADF-type organic afterglow emitter
Authors: Wang Guangming , Ding Shuhui , Li Jiuyang , Ye Zi , Xia Wen , Chen Xuefeng , Zhang Kaka
Published: September 2023

Narrow-band MRTADF-type organic afterglow materials with emission lifetime > 100 ms, FWHM < 40 nm, and deep-blue emission of CIEy at 0.048 have been achieved.
Novel biotin-linked amphiphilic calix[4]arene-based supramolecular micelles as doxorubicin carriers for boosted anticancer activity
Authors: Du Dan , Liu Yu-dun , Lan Jun-bing , Hou Xue-li , Liu Jia-dong , Shi Qing-hua , Huang Qing-wen , Xue Yun-sheng , Yan Chao-Guo , An Lin
Published: September 2023

The lack of targeting, severe toxicity on normal tissues have become an intractable limitation of doxorubicin (DOX)-based chemotherapy. A biotin-modified calix[4]arene based therapeutic agent BPCA4 has been designed for the delivery of DOX to alleviate the adverse side effects.
Hydrothermal synthesis of nanosized Sn-beta zeolites by interzeolite transformation for glucose isomerization
Authors: Zhang Jiaxing , Lin Haoyi , Lv Guojun , Liao Weiping , Lü Hongying , Zhu Zhiguo , Yang Kaixuan
Published: September 2023

Nanosized Sn-beta zeolite was hydrothermally synthesized from FAU zeolite via a novel interzeolite transformation method, which presented excellent fructose yield in glucose isomerization into fructose in water.
Giant unilateral electric-field control of magnetic anisotropy in MgO/Rh2CoSb heterojunctions
Authors: Yan Shiming , Hu Yue , Jin Deyou , Bai Ru , Qiao Wen , Zhou Tiejun
Published: September 2023

DFT calculations show a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and a giant unilateral voltage-controlled-magnetic-anisotropy coefficient of 7024 fJ V−1 m−1 in a Heusler-alloy magnetic heterojunction MgO/Rh2CoSb.
Janus MoAZ3H (A = Ge, Si; Z = N, P, As) monolayers: a new class of semiconductors exhibiting excellent photovoltaic and catalytic performances
Authors: Cai Xiaolin , Chen Guoxing , Li Rui , Yu Weiyang , Yang Xuefeng , Jia Yu
Published: September 2023

We propose a class of 2D Janus MoAZ3H monolayer materials with good stability, high carrier mobility and unique absorption using first-principles calculations.
Model calculations for the prediction of the diradical character of physisorbed molecules: p-benzyne/MgO and p-benzyne/SrO
Authors: Tada Kohei , Kawakami Takashi , Hinuma Yoyo
Published: September 2023

AP-DFT-D3/plane-wave calculations were performed to investigate variations in the diradical character caused by physisorption. The contribution of the electron configurations, which are too small in the gas phase, is amplified.
Low lattice thermal conductivities and good thermoelectric performance of hexagonal antiperovskites X(Ba & Sr)3BiN with quartic anharmonicity
Authors: Zeng Shuming , Yan Xiang , Shen Qian , Tu Yusong , Huang Hao , Li Geng
Published: September 2023

High thermoelectric performance of hexagonal antiperovskites X(Ba & Sr)3BiN with strong lattice anharmonicity.
Benchmark computational investigations for the basic model of the salt–water complex: NaCl(H2O) and its anion NaCl(H2O)−
Authors: Zhang Qi , Li Jun
Published: September 2023

For NaCl(H2O) and its anion, comprehensive and benchmark calculations are carried out to study overall reaction profiles and weak interactions for the neutral and anion systems, as well as the photoelectron spectra of the anion.
Gas-phase and solid-state electronic structure analysis and DFT benchmarking of HfCO
Authors: Ariyarathna Isuru R. , Cho Yeongsu , Duan Chenru , Kulik Heather J.
Published: September 2023

The interactions between Hf and CO are studied using multi-reference, couple cluster, and density functional theory. Calculations suggest that B3LYP is suitable for representing both molecular and solid-state models of Hf-CO interactions.
Structural and dynamical properties of thermoplastic polyurethane/fullerene nanocomposites: a molecular dynamics simulations study
Authors: Shen Jianxiang , Li Xue , Li Ping , Shentu Baoqing
Published: September 2023

The structural and dynamical properties of TPU/C60nanocomposites have been investigated using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, focusing on the glass transition, polymer mobility, polymer–C60interactions, and C60diffusion behavior.
Surface-modified bacteria: synthesis, functionalization and biomedical applications
Authors: Lin Sisi , Wu Feng , Zhang Yifan , Chen Huan , Guo Haiyan , Chen Yanmei , Liu Jinyao
Published: September 2023

This review summarizes the strategies for surface chemical modification of bacteria and advanced functions achieved by modifying specific surface components and highlights the applications of modified bacteria for bioimaging, diagnosis, and therapy.
Field induced single ion magnet behavior in CoII complexes in a distorted square pyramidal geometry
Authors: Dey Atanu , Ali Junaid , Moorthy Shruti , Gonzalez Jessica Flores , Pointillart Fabrice , Singh Saurabh Kumar , Chandrasekhar Vadapalli
Published: September 2023

We report three CoII-based square pyramidal complexes, [CoII(L)(X)2] (X = SeCN, Cl and Br). The structural distortions in these complexes induce a variation in the anisotropy parameter D and hence in their magnetic properties.
Solvatochromic behaviour of cyclic dithioether-functionalized triphenylamine ligands and their mechano-responsive Cu(i) coordination polymers
Authors: Pandey Dilip , Singh Gopal , Mishra Shivendu , Viau Lydie , Knorr Michael , Raghuvanshi Abhinav
Published: September 2023

Dithioether substituted triphenylamines and their Cu(i) CPs are reported. The ligands show solvatochromic behaviour while the CPs exhibit mechanochromic property.
Effects of tuning the structural symmetry of cobalt porphyrin on electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reactions
Authors: Wei Yuqin , Liang Yongdi , Wu Qijie , Xue Zhaoli , Feng Lei , Zhang Jianming , Zhao Long
Published: September 2023

The importance of tuning structural symmetry in improving the electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction performance is demonstrated using two cobalt porphyrins in both acid and alkali, assigned to the steric rather than the electronic properties.
Performance analysis of three distinct NixV2Oy single-phase nano self-assemblies for asymmetric supercapacitor fabrication and effective detection of low-concentration hazardous herbicide
Authors: Seerangan Selvam Govarthini , Sthevan Kovil Pitchai Jesman , Ammasai Kumaravel , Dheivasigamani Thangaraju
Published: September 2023

Single-phase stable NixV2Oy nanomaterials for bifunctional applications.
Cooperative effects of Schiff base binuclear zinc complexes on the synthesis of aliphatic and semi-aromatic polyesters
Authors: Santulli Federica , Tufano Federica , Cozzolino Mariachiara , D'Auria Ilaria , Strianese Maria , Mazzeo Mina , Lamberti Marina
Published: September 2023

Bimetallic complexes, when used as catalysts for the synthesis of polyesters, show synergistic interactions between zinc atoms, depending on the monomers.
Nano-sized aggregate Ti3C2–TiO2 supported on the surface of Ag2NCN as a Z-scheme catalyst with enhanced visible light photocatalytic performance
Authors: Yu Haidong , Cao Xuan , Zhang Shuji , Luo Shanxia , Feng Liang , An Xiaoyu , Jiang Haibing , Yao Shuhua
Published: September 2023

We successfully fabricate the Ag2NCN/TiO2–Ti3C2 Z-scheme heterojunction composite catalyst, which improves separation and prevents the recombination of photogenerated carries.
Dimerization and ring-opening in bis(diisopropylamino)cyclopropenylidene (BAC) mediated by [U(NR2)3(CCPh)] (R = SiMe3)
Authors: Nguyen Thien H. , Pauly Christophe , Kent Greggory T. , Wu Guang , Hayton Trevor W.
Published: September 2023

Addition of bis(diisopropylamino)cyclopropenylidene (BAC) to [U(NR2)3(CCPh)] (R = SiMe3) results in dimerization and protonation of two BAC molecules, followed by ring-opening and C–H activation to generate a azetidin-2-ylidenemethyl ring.
A chitosan-based biopolymer as an encapsulating nanomaterial for enhancing the antifungal and aflatoxin B1 inhibitory efficacy of Zanthoxylum alatum (Roxb) essential oil and elucidation of the mode of action
Authors: Yadav Amrita , Raghuvanshi Tanya Singh , Prakash Bhanu
Published: September 2023

The nanofabricated Zanthoxylum alatum essential oil (Ne-ZAEO) with chitosan biopolymer could be used as a green antifungal agent to extend the shelf-life of agri-food products.
A novel magnetic HS−-adsorptive nanocomposite photocatalyst (rGO/CoMn2O4–MgFe2O4) for hydrogen fuel production using H2S feed
Authors: Ghanimati Majid , Lashgari Mohsen , Montagnaro Fabio , Binas Vassilios , Konsolakis Michalis , Balsamo Marco
Published: September 2023

Synthesis of low-cost, eco-friendly, semiconducting composites with excellent activity for application in pollutant conversion to hydrogen is of great importance from environmental remediation as well as green energy and fuel production perspectives.