bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of jigsaw‐integrated task‐driven learning on students' motivation, computational thinking, collaborative skills, and programming performance in a high‐school programming course
Authors: Zhan Zehui , Li Tingting , Ye Yaner
Published: September 2024

Computer programming has emerged as an important field in K‐12 science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) education in the AI era. However, contemporary programming education is hindered by fragmented course content, high complexity, and difficulties in maintaining engagement, impeding smooth progress. More effective collaborative learning strategies need to be explored. This study constructed jigsaw‐integrated task‐driven learning (jigsaw‐TDL) in a high school Python programming course under a STEM curriculum and verified its teaching effectiveness on students’ learning motivation, computational thinking, collaborative skills, and programming performance both quantitatively and qualitatively. Nighty‐nine high school students were randomly assigned to a jigsaw‐TDL group and a general collaborative task‐driven learning group (collaborative‐TDL). During the experiment, a Python programming course was introduced over 7 weeks. Questionnaires, programming tasks, and semistructured interviews were comprehensively applied to examine students’ learning outcomes. Finally, the jigsaw‐TDL group showed significantly better performance than the collaborative‐TDL group in learning motivation, computational thinking, and collaborative skills. However, it only led to better programming performance in the less complex tasks. The majority of students held a positive attitude toward the jigsaw‐TDL model, acknowledging its benefits in group collaboration, programming knowledge acquisition, and application. This research provides empirical evidence and potential guidance for task organization and collaborative learning support in programming courses and STEM education.
Antibacterial and Antileishmanial Activity of 1,4‐Dihydropyridine Derivatives
Authors: Oliveira Thaís A. S. , Silva Jackson B. A. , Silva Nagela B. S. , Félix Paulo C. A. , dos Santos Daiane A. , de Oliveira Andreia M. , Martins Carlos H. G. , Magalhães Lizandra G. , Crotti Antônio E. M.
Published: September 2024

We have synthesized twenty‐three 1,4‐dihydropyridine derivatives (1,4‐DHPs) by using a microwave‐assisted one‐pot multicomponent Hantzsch reaction and evaluated their antibacterial activity against a representative panel of cariogenic bacteria and their in vitro antileishmanial activity against Leishmania (L.) amazonensis promastigotes and amastigotes. Thirteen compounds were moderately active against Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus mitis, and Lactobacillus paracasei. Compound 22 (diethyl 4‐(3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridine‐3,5‐dicarboxylate) displayed moderate antibacterial activity against S. mitis and S. sanguinis, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 500 μg/mL); compounds 8 (ethyl 2,7,7‐trimethyl‐4‐(3‐chlorophenyl)‐5‐oxo‐1,4,5,6,7,8‐hexahydroquinoline‐3‐carboxylate) and 10 (ethyl 2,7,7‐trimethyl‐4‐(3‐nitrophenyl)‐5‐oxo‐1,4,5,6,7,8‐hexahydroquinoline‐3‐carboxylate) were moderately active against S. sanguinis (MIC=500 μg/mL) and very active against L. amazonensis promastigotes (IC50=43.08 and 34.29 μM, respectively). Among the eight 1,4‐DHPs that were active (IC50 <50 μM) against L. amazonensis promastigotes, compound 13 (ethyl 2,7,7‐trimethyl‐4‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxyphenyl)‐5‐oxo‐1,4,5,6,7,8‐hexahydroquinoline‐3‐carboxylate) was the most active (IC50=24.62 μM) and had a Selectivity Index (SI) higher than 4 compared to GM07492 A cells. On the other hand, compounds 7 (ethyl 2,7,7‐trimethyl‐4‐(3‐fluorophenyl)‐5‐oxo‐1,4,5,6,7,8‐hexahydroquinoline‐3‐carboxylate) and 9 (ethyl 2,7,7‐trimethyl‐4‐(2‐nitrophenyl)‐5‐oxo‐1,4,5,6,7,8‐hexahydroquinoline‐3‐carboxylate) were the most active against L. amazonensis amastigotes (IC50=12.53 and 13.67 μM, respectively; SI>7.9 and >7.3, respectively) after 24 h of treatment. Our results indicated that asymmetric 1,4‐DHPs derived from dimedone exhibit antileishmanial potential.
Altering Oxygen Adsorption Model on B‐Doped Fe‒Cu Dual‐Atom Catalysts for Efficient Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Guo Jianglong , An Qizheng , Zhang Xu , Zhang Yuhao , Jiang Jingjing , Zhang Jing , Li Baojie , Qin Xupeng , Wang Wei , Liu Qinghua
Published: September 2024

Due to isolated active sites of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), the catalytic kinetics of SACs are often unsatisfactory in those catalytic reaction processes involving multiple intermediates and reaction pathways, such as the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). To address this bottleneck and enhance the ORR performance of SACs, we developed a boron‐doped Fe‒Cu dual‐atom catalyst (Fe‒Cu‒B/NC). This catalyst is designed to modulate the oxygen adsorption model and adjust the adsorption strength of oxygen intermediates at the metal sites. In situ synchrotron infrared spectroscopy demonstrated that the Fe‒Cu‒B/NC catalyst facilitates the adsorption of oxygen intermediates on the Fe‒Cu dual sites through a bridge adsorption model, which is more favorable for O─O bond cleavage. Meanwhile, in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed that the transformation of the adsorption model can accelerate the kinetics of intermediate species, further enhancing the catalytic efficiency. As a result, Fe‒Cu‒B/NC exhibits good ORR activity and strong durability, retaining 90% of its initial current density after 10 h of the ORR process in alkaline media.
Application of Fe3O4@MCC Nanoparticles as a Heterogeneous Catalyst for Sustainable Multicomponent Synthesis of 2,3′‐Biindoles
Authors: Pandya Ajay U. , Chaudhari Mukesh P. , Sharma Vinay S. , George Archana , Shiyal Gopal N. , Shrivastav Pranav S.
Published: September 2024

Developing innovative methods for synthesizing unique 2,3'‐biindole derivatives is crucial for the progression of drug and material discovery. The use of transition‐metal‐catalyzed coupling improves the efficiency and structural diversity in the synthesis of biindoles. Among these methods, heterogeneous catalysis, particularly using Fe3O4 nanocatalyst supported by microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), is promising for green chemistry applications. In the present work, sixteen 2,3'‐biindole derivatives (4a‐p) were prepared using Fe3O4@MCC nanocatalyst which demonstrated enhanced performance, cost‐effectiveness, and reusability. The magnetic properties of the catalyst enable easy separation, simplifying purification processes, and enhancing overall reaction efficiency to 78%–93%. This method aligns with sustainable chemical practices and offers practical benefits for various industrial applications. This environment friendly method boasts several advantages and demonstrates excellent green chemistry metrics, including process mass intensity, environmental impact factor, atom economy, and reaction mass efficiency, atom economy, carbon efficiency, chemical yield, and optimum efficiency.
Improved deep network‐based load predictor and optimal load balancing in cloud‐fog services
Authors: Singh Shubham , Mishra Amit Kumar , Arjaria Siddhartha Kumar , Bhatt Chinmay , Pandey Daya Shankar , Yadav Ritesh Kumar
Published: September 2024

Cloud computing is commonly utilized in remote contexts to handle user demands for resources and services. Each assignment has unique processing needs that are determined by the time it takes to complete. However, if load balancing is not properly managed, the effectiveness of resources may suffer dramatically. Consequently, cloud service providers have to emphasize rapid and precise load balancing as well as proper resource supply. This paper proposes a novel enhanced deep network‐based load predictor and load balancing in cloud‐fog services. In prior, the workload is predicted using a deep network called Multiple Layers Assisted in LSTM (MLA‐LSTM) model that considers the capacity of virtual machine (VM) and task as input and predicts the target label as underload, overload and equally balanced. According to this prediction, the optimal load balancing is performed through a hybrid optimization named Osprey Assisted Pelican Optimization Algorithm (OAPOA) while taking into account several parameters such as makespan, execution cost, resource consumption, and server load. Additionally, a process known as load migration is carried out, in which machines with overload tasks are assigned to machines with underload tasks. This migration is applied optimally via the OAPOA strategy under the consideration of constraints including migration cost and migration efficiency.
Can Metal Promotion of SAPO‐34 Genuinely Improve Its Catalytic Performance in Methanol Conversion to Light Olefins Reaction?
Authors: Ghavipour Mohammad , Al Hussami Ralph , Nasser Galal , Kopyscinski Jan
Published: September 2024

To genuinely assess the effect of secondary metal promotion on improving the SAPO‐34 catalytic performance in MTO reaction, a broad spectrum of metals from different groups of the periodic table (alkali and alkaline earth metals, transition metals, rare earth metals, and basic metals) were investigated. Metals were added through a direct incorporation route with Me/Al2O3 molar ratio of 0.05. Some metals seamlessly incorporated into the SAPO‐34 framework and replaced the Si and Al atoms, while others partially merged or even failed to be combined with SAPO and emerged as amorphous phases. Although, in some cases, the surface area of the metal‐promoted samples increased due to enhanced nucleation rate and smaller particle formation, the majority of the promoted samples suffered from a severe loss in crystallinity that resulted in inferior catalytic performance. It was also illustrated that hydrogen co‐feeding with methanol (H2/MeOH molar ratio of 1.5) at ambient pressure could extend the catalyst lifetime by 27 % due to hydrogenation and cracking of the coke species and improve the light olefins selectivity.
Radical Addition Reactions: Hierarchical Ab Initio Benchmark and DFT Performance Study
Authors: Hordijk Yuman , Dalla Tiezza Marco , Rodrigues Silva Daniela , Hamlin Trevor A.
Published: September 2024

We performed a hierarchical ab initio benchmark study of the gas‐phase radical addition reactions of X⋅+C2H2 and X⋅+C2H4 (X⋅ = CH3⋅, NH2⋅, OH⋅, SH⋅). The hierarchical series of ab initio methods (HF, MP2, CCSD, CCSD(T)) were paired with a hierarchal series of Dunning basis sets with and without diffuse functions ((aug)–cc–pVDZ, (aug)–cc–pVTZ, (aug)–cc–pVQZ). The HF ground‐state wavefunctions were transformed into quasi‐restricted orbital (QRO) reference wavefunctions to address spin contamination. Following extrapolation to the CBS limit, the energies from our highest‐ QRO–CCSD(T)/CBS+ level converged within 0.0–3.4 kcal mol−1 and 0.0–1.0 kcal mol−1 concerning the ab initio method and basis set, respectively. Our QRO–CCSD(T)/CBS+ reference data was used to evaluate the performance of 98 density functional theory (DFT) approximations. The MAE of the best functionals for reaction barriers and energies were: OLYP (1.9 kcal mol−1), BMK (1.0 kcal mol−1), M06–2X (0.9 kcal mol−1), MN12–SX (0.8 kcal mol−1) and CAM−B3LYP (0.8 kcal mol−1). These functionals also accurately reproduce key geometrical parameters of the stationary points within an average 2 % deviation from the reference QRO–CCSD(T)/cc–pVTZ level.
Establishing Primary and Stable Cell Lines from Frozen Wing Biopsies for Cellular, Physiological, and Genetic Studies in Bats
Authors: Deng Fengyan , Morales‐Sosa Pedro , Bernal‐Rivera Andrea , Wang Yan , Tsuchiya Dai , Javier Jose Emmanuel , Rohner Nicolas , Zhao Chongbei , Camacho Jasmin
Published: September 2024

Bats stand out among mammalian species for their exceptional traits, including the capacity to navigate through flight and echolocation, conserve energy through torpor/hibernation, harbor a multitude of viruses, exhibit resistance to disease, survive harsh environmental conditions, and demonstrate exceptional longevity compared to other mammals of similar size. In vivo studies of bats are challenging for several reasons, such as difficulty in locating and capturing them in their natural environments, limited accessibility, low sample size, environmental variation, long lifespans, slow reproductive rates, zoonotic disease risks, species protection, and ethical concerns. Thus, establishing alternative laboratory models is crucial for investigating the diverse physiological adaptations observed in bats. Obtaining quality cells from tissues is a critical first step for successful primary cell derivation. However, it is often impractical to collect fresh tissue and process the samples immediately for cell culture due to the resources required for isolating and expanding cells. As a result, frozen tissue is typically the starting resource for bat primary cell derivation, but cells in frozen tissue are usually damaged and have low integrity and viability. Isolating primary cells from frozen tissues thus poses a significant challenge. Herein, we present a successfully developed protocol for isolating primary dermal fibroblasts from frozen bat wing biopsies. This protocol marks a significant milestone, as this is the first protocol specifically focused on fibroblast isolation from bat frozen tissue. We also describe methods for primary cell characterization, genetic manipulation of primary cells through lentivirus transduction, and the development of stable cell lines. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Bat wing biopsy collection and preservation

Support Protocol 1: Blood collection from bat venipuncture

Basic Protocol 2: Isolation of primary fibroblasts from adult bat frozen wing biopsy

Support Protocol 2: Primary fibroblast culture and subculture

Support Protocol 3: Determination of growth curve and doubling time

Support Protocol 4: Cell banking and thawing of primary fibroblasts

Basic Protocol 3: Lentiviral transduction of bat primary fibroblasts

Basic Protocol 4: Bat stable fibroblast cell line development

Support Protocol 5: Bat fibroblast validation by immunofluorescence staining

Basic Protocol 5: Chromosome counting
Genetic Manipulation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Commensal Neisseria Species
Authors: Dillard Joseph P. , Chan Jia Mun
Published: September 2024

The sexually transmitted pathogen, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, undergoes natural transformation at high frequency. This property has led to the rapid dissemination of antibiotic resistance markers and the panmictic structure of the gonococcal population. However, high‐frequency transformation also makes N. gonorrhoeae one of the easiest bacterial species to manipulate genetically in the laboratory. Techniques have been developed that result in transformation frequencies >50%, allowing the identification of mutants by screening and without selection. Constructs have been created to take advantage of this high‐frequency transformation, facilitating genetic mutation, complementation, and heterologous gene expression. Similar methods have been developed for N. meningitidis and nonpathogenic Neisseria including N. mucosa and N. musculi. Techniques are described for genetic manipulation of N. gonorrhoeae and commensal Neisseria species, as well as for growth of these fastidious organisms. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Spot transformation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae on agar plates

Basic Protocol 2: Spot transformation of commensal Neisseria on agar plates

Basic Protocol 3: Transformation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in liquid culture

Basic Protocol 4: Electroporation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Basic Protocol 5: Creation of unmarked mutations using a positive and negative selection cassette

Basic Protocol 6: In vitro mutagenesis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae chromosomal DNA using EZ‐Tn5

Basic Protocol 7: Chemical mutagenesis

Basic Protocol 8: Complementation on the Neisseria gonorrhoeae chromosome

Alternate Protocol 1: Complementation with replicating plasmids

Alternate Protocol 2: Complementation on the Neisseria musculi or Neisseria mucosa chromosome

Basic Protocol 9: Preparation of chromosomal DNA from Neisseria gonorrhoeae grown on solid medium

Alternate Protocol 3: Preparation of chromosomal DNA from Neisseria gonorrhoeae grown in broth

Support Protocol: Preparing PCR templates from Neisseria gonorrhoeae colonies
Periodic Acid Schiff Staining to Detect Mott Cells, Aberrant Plasma Cells Containing Immunoglobulin Inclusions Called Russell Bodies
Authors: Mahmoudi Aliabadi Pedram , Al‐Qaisi Khlowd , Reddy Vishnu , Radbruch Andreas , Kobayashi Makio , Kubagawa Hiromi
Published: September 2024

Hematoxylin and eosin staining is widely used for routine histopathological analysis under light microscopic examination to determine alterations of tissue architecture and cellular components in animal studies. Aside from hematoxylin/eosin staining, periodic acid Schiff (PAS) staining is used to detect polysaccharides and carbohydrate‐rich macromolecules, and is essential in immunological fields for evaluation of glomerular lesions of kidneys in autoimmune animals. Since erythrocytes are not stained by PAS, this stain is also helpful for identifying changes in immune cells in the red pulp of the spleen, which is filled with erythrocytes. This article describes a protocol to detect Mott cells, bizarre plasma cells containing immunoglobulin inclusion bodies (Russell bodies) in the cytoplasm. The protocol can be used for formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections, frozen tissue sections, tissue‐touch preparations, blood films, and cytocentrifuged cell smears. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Detection of Mott cells by PAS staining in formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections

Basic Protocol 2: Detection of Mott cells by PAS staining in frozen tissue sections, touch preparations, blood films, and cytocentrifuged cell smears
Anode Glow Discharge Electrolysis Synthesis of Flower‐Like α‐MnO2 Nanospheres: Structure, Formation Mechanism, and Supercapacitor Performance
Authors: Yu Jie , Liu Manye , Wang Bo , Liang Chenxu , Wang Xuyi , Wang Kai , Lu Quanfang
Published: September 2024

A novel green synthesis strategy–anode glow discharge electrolysis (AGDE) was employed for one‐step preparation of α‐MnO2 in 2 g L−1 KMnO4 solution, in which Pt needle and carbon rod were regarded as anode and cathode, respectively. The optimal preparation condition is 400 V for 60 min and the power consumption is below 45 W. The XRD, Raman spectra, XPS and EPR proved that α‐MnO2 with structural defects (oxygen vacancies) is obtained. SEM and TEM revealed that α‐MnO2 shows a flower‐like nanospheres with a diameter of 165 nm, which is assembled by many nanosheets. A possible formation mechanism is that the MnO2 is generated via the reduction of MnO4− by H⋅ and eaq− in plasma‐liquid interface. Electrochemical test found that MnO2 nanospheres exhibit a specific capacitance of 365 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, and capacity retention of 79.8 % after 10,000 cycles at 5 A g−1. The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor shows the maximum energy density of 23.1 Wh kg−1 at power density of 1.89 kW kg−1. In brief, AGDE is a simple, facile and green technique for the synthesis of α‐MnO2 without adding extra chemicals, and prepared α‐MnO2 can be considered as an excellent candidate of electrode materials for supercapacitor.
Recent Progress on Cross‐Linkable Fullerene‐Based Electron Transport Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Guorong , Luo Xin , Wang Zhen , Ding Changzeng , Guo Yuxiao , Ma Changqi , Xu Bo
Published: September 2024

Fullerene‐based derivatives are frequently used as electron transport materials (ETMs) and interface buffers for perovskite solar cells (PSCs) due to their excellent properties, including high electron affinity and mobility, low recombination energy, tunable energy levels, and solution processability. However, significant challenges arise because fullerene derivatives tend to aggregate and dimerize, which reduces exciton dissociation and charge transport capacity. Additionally, their chemical compatibility with perovskite absorbers facilitates halide diffusion and degradation of PSCs. This overlap causes delamination and dissolution during device fabrication, hindering the performance enhancement of fullerene‐based PSCs. To address these issues, researchers have developed cross‐linkable fullerene materials. These materials have been shown to not only significantly improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PSCs but also effectively enhance the device stability. In this review, we summarized recent research progress on cross‐linkable fullerene derivatives as ETMs for PSCs. We systematically analyze the impact of these cross‐linked ETMs on device performance and long‐term stability, focusing on their molecular structures and working mechanisms. Finally, we discuss the future challenges that need to be overcome to advance the application of cross‐linkable fullerene materials in PSCs.
Do modern climatic niches distinguish extinct and extant plant genera in New Zealand?
Authors: Schlenker Nora , Lee William G. , Reichgelt Tammo , Ohlemüller Ralf
Published: September 2024

Past climate changes have had large impacts on modern ecological patterns. Understanding if legacies are distinguishable in the climatic niches of extant and locally extinct taxa can provide insight into the importance of climate in extinction events. To better understand mid‐ to late‐Cenozoic New Zealand plant extinctions, which are often attributed to Cenozoic climate cooling, we identify 13 con‐familial extinct and extant New Zealand genus pairs, which have modern distributions in Australia. Using climatic niches derived from current geographic distributions in Australia, we compared (i) total niche breadth, (ii) niche overlap, and (iii) individual climate parameters, to investigate potential climate drivers of intrafamilial extinction and persistence patterns in New Zealand. A majority of New Zealand extinct genera (9 out of 13 pairs) do not indicate climate niche legacies consistent with susceptibility to extinction from changing climates, while the remaining four extinct/extant pairs show slight climatic niche legacies. Three extinct genera have warmer niches than their extant counterpart, which is consistent with extinction reflecting intolerance of cooling Cenozoic climates. The other genus pair with a climatic niche legacy has an extinct genus that is distinguished by a niche with smaller precipitation seasonality than its extant counterpart, suggesting that climate metrics other than temperature may also be important extinction drivers in some taxa. Our results show that the mechanisms of Cenozoic extinctions of New Zealand genera are likely more complex than taxa reaching environmental tolerances due to cooling climates. Comparisons of current climatic niches between extant and extinct sister taxa can provide useful insights into large‐scale, long‐term climatic legacies but more analyses, including trait and phylogeographic patterns, would lead to additional insights into alternative pathways of extinction.
Street‐side trees control pavement wetness in a moist‐temperate region with cold winters
Authors: Matlack Glenn R. , Khoury Issam , Naik Bhaven
Published: September 2024

Urban tree canopies intercept rain and snowfall, potentially extending the service life of asphalt pavement below them. However, the process of pavement wetting has not been quantified and controlling factors are poorly understood. In this study, we document four forms of pavement moisture and experimentally test the role of trees in regulating wetness. Study plots were established on asphalt pavement under and adjacent to broad‐leaved street trees in a residential neighbourhood typical of cities in the Northeastern Unites States. Pavement wetting by rainfall, drying after experimental wetting, and accumulation and persistence of snow and ice were recorded. Pavement wetness under a tree canopy lagged 25 to 35 minutes behind pavement under an open sky, a delay that would prevent or reduce wetting in 28% of rain events in the study region. Pavement drying was 70% slower under a canopy than in open plots. Partially covered plots showed intermediate wetting and drying behaviour consistent with direct‐beam solar exposure. Significantly less snow was observed under the leafless canopy than under the open sky, and snow melted faster under the canopy. Ice cover and persistence were unrelated to canopy openness but strongly influenced by traffic and drainage. Pavement microclimate did not differ significantly with tree size or canopy porosity. We conclude that street trees control pavement moisture within ranges that potentially affect pavement structure and longevity. Tree‐scale arrangement appears to be more important than fine‐scale canopy structure.
Silver(I)‐Catalyzed Syntheses of Triarylmethanes (TRAMs)
Authors: Bouteille Quentin , Davies Clotilde , Labourdette Guillaume , Bibal Brigitte
Published: September 2024

The synthesis of triarylmethanes was evaluated in the presence of various Brønsted and Lewis acids under the same stoichiometric conditions. An efficient silver(I)‐catalyzed synthesis of triarylmethanes is reported. The reaction offers low catalyst loadings and quasi‐stoichiometric conditions (1–1.2 equiv. of electrophile) to access to symmetrical and unsymmetrical TRAMs in moderate to excellent yields (35 examples). Broad substrate scope was observed, including compatibility with ester and cyano groups.
Mercury Detection in Novel Foods by a Smart Pocket Sensor
Authors: Vitale Ilaria Antonia , Selvolini Giulia , Failli Sara , Truzzi Cristina , Marrazza Giovanna
Published: September 2024

Mercury is one of the most well‐known toxic contaminants of natural and anthropogenic origin in aquatic ecosystems that can bioaccumulate in vegetal and animal organisms. In this work, we propose a smart detection system for Hg(II) ions by square wave anodic stripping voltammetry at nanocomposite graphite screen‐printed electrodes, as an analytical tool to be applied in food quality control. The nanocomposite surfaces were obtained by the modification of screen‐printed graphite electrodes with poly(l‐aspartic acid) and gold nanoparticles and were characterized by means of electrochemical techniques. An exhaustive study of the experimental conditions involved both in the electropolymerization and in the voltammetric stripping measurements was addressed to develop a reliable method capable of measuring Hg(II) concentration in the low μg/L range, both in conventional and drop configurations. The sensor was integrated in a smart setup, comprising a Sensit Smart pocket instrument connected to a smartphone, thus proving its applicability for in situ analysis due to its cost‐effectiveness. The analytical significance of the developed sensor was assessed by detecting Hg(II) in novel food samples.
Seismic risk prioritization of masonry building stocks using machine learning
Authors: Coskun Onur , Aktepe Rafet , Aldemir Alper , Yilmaz Ali Erhan , Durmaz Murat , Erkal Burcu Guldur , Tunali Engin
Published: September 2024

The seismic risk mitigation plans are vital since vulnerable structures are prone to partial or total collapse under the effect of future major earthquake events. Therefore, vulnerable structures in large building stocks should be determined using robust and accurate methods to prevent loss of lives and property. In the current state‐of‐the‐art, the risk states (i.e., whether risky or not) of structures completely depend on the experience of the reconnaissance team of engineers, which could not result in standardized decisions. In this study, machine learning has been integrated into the decision‐making algorithm to classify more precise and reliable seismic risk states of masonry buildings, categorizing them into up to four risk categories. For this purpose, a large database, including 12 features and detailed seismic risk analysis results of 4356 masonry buildings, is formed. Firstly, the input variables are preprocessed using feature engineering methods. Then, several machine learning algorithms are utilized to produce a network to estimate the risk state of masonry buildings in association with the risk states obtained from the detailed analysis results. As a result of the analysis of these algorithms, the correct prediction percentages for the testing database of the proposed method for two, three, and four risk states classification are predicted as approximately 87.5%, 86.6%, and 79.0%, respectively. This new approach makes it possible to produce risk color maps of large building stocks and reduce the number of buildings that require immediate action.
Unveiling the microbial metabolites in ruminant milk for medicinal purposes
Authors: Jia Qingan , Yang Tongling , Chang Fan , Zhang Qinglin , Liang Junrong , Liao Xia , Shi Huaiping
Published: September 2024

Milk, as a dietary supplement, is crucial for maintaining health and potentially preventing disease throughout life. Both traditional Chinese medicine and modern nutritional science have revealed that milk from different mammals can benefit humans, exhibiting distinct medicinal functions. It can be inferred that milk contains not only multiple nutrients but also an abundance of bioactive components that have health benefits for milk consumers. However, limited studies have focused on the differences in bioactive metabolites in milk derived from various ruminants and their distinct medical functions. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the diversity of microbial metabolites and their associated health benefits, which are primarily shaped by the rumen‐mammary gland axis. Our findings reveal the pivotal role played by microbial metabolites in facilitating the microbiome's influence on human physiology. Finally, we conclude that ruminant milk may offer a path to harness these metabolites’ therapeutic benefits. To increase these metabolites in milk, there is need to design dietary supplements for dairy ruminants, which could enhance milk's medicinal value and aroma, revolutionizing ruminant husbandry.
DNAJB6 is expressed in neurons and oligodendrocytes of the human brain
Authors: Hentze Jónvá , Folke Jonas , Aznar Susana , Nyeng Pia , Brudek Tomasz , Hansen Christian
Published: September 2024

DNAJB6 is a suppressor of α‐synuclein aggregation in vivo and in vitro. DNAJB6 is strongly expressed in the brain, and its overall protein expression is altered in neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). These two diseases are characterized by accumulation of aggregated α‐synuclein in neurons and oligodendrocytes, respectively. To further explore this, we employed post‐mortem normal human brain material to investigate the regional and cell type specific protein expression of DNAJB6. We found that the DNAJB6 protein is ubiquitously expressed across various regions of the brain. Notably, we demonstrate for the first time that DNAJB6 is present in nearly half (41%–53%) of the oligodendrocyte population and in the majority (68%–80%) of neurons. However, DNAJB6 was only sparsely present in other cell types such as astrocytes and microglia. Given that α‐synuclein aggregation in oligodendrocytes is a hallmark of MSA, we investigated DNAJB6 presence in MSA brains compared to control brains. We found no significant difference in the percentage of oligodendrocytes where DNAJB6 was present in MSA brains relative to control brains. In conclusion, our results reveal an expression of the DNAJB6 protein across various regions of the human brain, and that DNAJB6 is almost exclusively present in neurons and oligodendrocytes. Since prior studies have shown that PD and MSA brains have altered levels of DNAJB6 relative to control brains, DNAJB6 may be an interesting target for drug development.
Generalized models for estimating cerebral lateralisation of young children using functional transcranial Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Quin‐Conroy Josephine E. , Thompson Paul A. , Bayliss Donna M. , Badcock Nicholas A.
Published: September 2024

Thompson et al., 2023 (Generalized models for quantifying laterality using functional transcranial Doppler ultrasound. Human Brain Mapping, 44(1), 35–48) introduced generalised model‐based analysis methods for determining cerebral lateralisation from functional transcranial Doppler ultrasound (fTCD) data which substantially decreased the uncertainty of individual lateralisation estimates across several large adult samples. We aimed to assess the suitability of these methods for increasing precision in lateralisation estimates for child fTCD data. We applied these methods to adult fTCD data to establish the validity of two child‐friendly language and visuospatial tasks. We also applied the methods to fTCD data from 4‐ to 7‐year‐old children. For both samples, the laterality estimates from the complex generalised additive model (GAM) approach correlated strongly with the traditional methods while also decreasing individual standard errors compared to the popular period‐of‐interest averaging method. We recommend future research using fTCD with young children consider using GAMs to reduce the noise in their LI estimates.
Mathematical modeling of Newtonian/non‐Newtonian fluids in a double‐diffusive convective flow over a vertical wall
Authors: Chandan K. G. , Patil Mallikarjun B. , Mahabaleshwar U. S. , Souayeh Basma
Published: September 2024

This study implements the comparative study of Casson and Williamson nanofluids by considering the impacts of linear thermal radiation and inclined magnetohydrodynamics. Here, we employ graphs to compare the variables affecting the behavior of non‐Newtonian and Newtonian fluids for a range of physical and dimensionless parameter values. The flow's coupled equations, which contain multiple independent variables, these equations can then be changed into a single independent variable by adding similarity variables and can be solved by applying the shooting method. The effects of thermomigration and Brownian motion on nonlinear flow equations are graphically examined. For an array of radiation parameter values, we have observed that the Newtonian fluid's concentration is lesser than that of both the non‐Newtonian fluids and also noticed that Newtonian fluids converge a little sooner than Casson and Williamson fluids. The primary innovation is shown in Table 1, where the mass transfer and heat transfer values are contrasted with the limiting circumstances of previous research findings that are documented in the literature.
Unsupervised Domain Adaptation for Simultaneous Segmentation and Classification of the Retinal Arteries and Veins
Authors: Xue Lanyan , Zhang Wenjun , Lu Lizheng , Chen Yunsheng , Li Kaibin
Published: September 2024

Automatic segmentation of the fundus retinal vessels and accurate classification of the arterial and venous vessels play an important role in clinical diagnosis. This article proposes a fundus retinal vascular segmentation and arteriovenous classification network that combines the adversarial training and attention mechanism to address the issues of fundus retinal arteriovenous classification error and ambiguous segmentation of fine blood vessels. It consists of three core components: discriminator, generator, and segmenter. In order to address the domain shift issue, U‐Net is employed as a discriminator, and data samples for arterial and venous vessels are generated with a generator using an unsupervised domain adaption (UDA) approach. The classification of retinal arterial and venous vessels (A/V) as well as the segmentation of fine vessels is improved by adding a self‐attention mechanism to improve attention to vessel edge features and the terminal fine vessels. Non‐strided convolution and non‐pooled downsampling methods are also used to avoid losing fine‐grained information and learning less effective feature representations. The performance of multi‐class blood vessel segmentation is as follows, per test results on the DRIVE dataset: F1‐score (F1) has a value of 0.7496 and an accuracy of 0.9820. The accuracy of A/V categorization has increased by 1.35% when compared to AU‐Net. The outcomes demonstrate that by enhancing the baseline U‐Net, the strategy we suggested enhances the automated classification and segmentation of blood vessels.
LTBR acts as a novel immune checkpoint of tumor‐associated macrophages for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Liang , Fan Jieyi , Wu Sifan , Cheng Shilin , Zhao Junlong , Fan Fan , Gao Chunchen , Qiao Rong , Sheng Qiqi , Hu Yiyang , Zhang Yong , Liu Pengjun , Jiao Zhe , Wei Tiaoxia , Lei Jie , Chen Yan , Qin Hongyan
Published: September 2024

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) greatly contribute to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) resistance of cancer. However, its underlying mechanisms and whether TAMs can be promising targets to overcome ICI resistance remain to be unveiled. Through integrative analysis of immune multiomics data and single‐cell RNA‐seq data (iMOS) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), lymphotoxin β receptor (LTBR) is identified as a potential immune checkpoint of TAMs, whose high expression, duplication, and low methylation are correlated with unfavorable prognosis. Immunofluorescence staining shows that the infiltration of LTBR+ TAMs is associated with LUAD stages, immunotherapy failure, and poor prognosis. Mechanistically, LTΒR maintains immunosuppressive activity and M2 phenotype of TAMs by noncanonical nuclear factor kappa B and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathways. Macrophage‐specific knockout of LTBR hinders tumor growth and prolongs survival time via blocking TAM immunosuppressive activity and M2 phenotype. Moreover, TAM‐targeted delivery of LTΒR small interfering RNA improves the therapeutic effect of ICI via reversing TAM‐mediated immunosuppression, such as boosting cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and inhibiting granulocytic myeloid‐derived suppressor cells infiltration. Taken together, we bring forth an immune checkpoint discovery pipeline iMOS, identify LTBR as a novel immune checkpoint of TAMs, and propose a new immunotherapy strategy by targeting LTBR+ TAMs.
Integrating genome‐ and transcriptome‐wide association studies to uncover the host–microbiome interactions in bovine rumen methanogenesis
Authors: Wang Wei , Wei Zhenyu , Li Zhuohui , Ren Jianrong , Song Yanliang , Xu Jingyi , Liu Anguo , Li Xinmei , Li Manman , Fan Huimei , Jin Liangliang , Niyazbekova Zhannur , Wang Wen , Gao Yuanpeng , Jiang Yu , Yao Junhu , Li Fuyong , Wu Shengru , Wang Yu
Published: September 2024

The ruminal microbiota generates biogenic methane in ruminants. However, the role of host genetics in modifying ruminal microbiota‐mediated methane emissions remains mysterious, which has severely hindered the emission control of this notorious greenhouse gas. Here, we uncover the host genetic basis of rumen microorganisms by genome‐ and transcriptome‐wide association studies with matched genome, rumen transcriptome, and microbiome data from a cohort of 574 Holstein cattle. Heritability estimation revealed that approximately 70% of microbial taxa had significant heritability, but only 43 genetic variants with significant association with 22 microbial taxa were identified through a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). In contrast, the transcriptome‐wide association study (TWAS) of rumen microbiota detected 28,260 significant gene–microbe associations, involving 210 taxa and 4652 unique genes. On average, host genetic factors explained approximately 28% of the microbial abundance variance, while rumen gene expression explained 43%. In addition, we highlighted that TWAS exhibits a strong advantage in detecting gene expression and phenotypic trait associations in direct effector organs. For methanogenic archaea, only one significant signal was detected by GWAS, whereas the TWAS obtained 1703 significant associated host genes. By combining multiple correlation analyses based on these host TWAS genes, rumen microbiota, and volatile fatty acids, we observed that substrate hydrogen metabolism is an essential factor linking host–microbe interactions in methanogenesis. Overall, these findings provide valuable guidelines for mitigating methane emissions through genetic regulation and microbial management strategies in ruminants.
The Technological Innovation of the Metaverse in Financial Sector: Current State, Opportunities, and Open Challenges
Authors: D'Ulizia Arianna , Federico Domenica , Notte Antonella
Published: September 2024

Metaverse is an emerging digital space that uses innovative technologies to allow users to facilitate building relationships virtually and to create new interaction opportunities. Even, the financial sector has been disrupted by the metaverse involving digital assets, cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and decentralized finance. The objective of this paper is to focus on novel intelligent systems technologies with the potential for application in the financial area to have a better knowledge of the current research topics, challenges, and future directions. A systematic literature review was conducted analyzing papers on technological innovation of the metaverse in financial sector. Following the PRISMA methodology, we have selected 29 primary studies from five scientific databases to be included in the review. The results show that 11 types of innovative metaverse technologies are applied in the financial sector, developing financial innovations, among which the most discussed is cryptocurrency. Among the opportunities that the use of the metaverse brings to the financial sector, the reduction of transaction costs is the most discussed. Finally, five open challenges in the use of metaverse technologies in the financial sector have been identified, relating to the use of data, the application of technologies, social integration, financial innovation, and regulatory compliance. Based on this study, recommendations on future research directions are provided to the scientific community.
Copper ions‐photo dual‐crosslinked alginate hydrogel for angiogenesis and osteogenesis
Authors: Liu Guochen , Ye Shanshan , Li Yue , Yang Jing , Wang Simin , Liu Yuan , Yang Sisi , Tian Yinping , Yin Miao , Cheng Bo
Published: September 2024

Early healing of bone defects is still a clinical challenge. Many bone‐filling materials have been studied, among which photocrosslinked alginate has received significant attention due to its good biocompatibility and morphological plasticity. Although it has been confirmed that photocrosslinked alginate can be used as an extracellular matrix for 3D cell culture, it lacks osteogenesis‐related biological functions. This study constructed a copper ions‐photo dual‐crosslinked alginate hydrogel scaffold by controlling the copper ion concentration. The scaffolds were shaped by photocrosslinking and then endowed with biological functions by copper ions crosslinking. According to in vitro research, the dual‐crosslinked hydrogel increased the compressive strength and favored copper dose‐dependent osteoblast differentiation and cell surface adherence of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and the expression of type I collagen (Col1), runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteocalcin (OCN), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition, hydrogel scaffolds were implanted into rat skull defects, and more angiogenesis and osteogenesis could be observed in in vivo studies. The above results show that the copper‐photo‐crosslinked hydrogel scaffold has excellent osseointegration properties and can potentially promote angiogenesis and early healing of bone defects, providing a reference solution for bone tissue engineering materials.
Exploring the interplay between bisphenol A exposure, the immune microenvironment and hepatocellular carcinoma progression
Authors: Liu Qi , Niu Ruishu , Ye Yi , Li Jie
Published: September 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a formidable challenge in oncology, with its pathogenesis and progression influenced by myriad factors. Among them, the pervasive organic synthetic compound, bisphenol A (BPA), previously linked with various adverse health effects, has been speculated to play a role. This study endeavors to elucidate the complex interplay between BPA, the immune microenvironment of HCC, and the broader molecular landscape of this malignancy.

Methods

A comprehensive analysis was undertaken using data procured from both The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. Rigorous differential expression analyses were executed, supplemented by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. In addition, single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis, gene set enrichment analysis and gene set variation analysis were employed to reveal potential molecular links and insights. Immune infiltration patterns were delineated, and a series of in vitro experiments on HCC cells were conducted to directly assess the impact of BPA exposure.

Results

Our findings unveiled a diverse array of active immune cells and functions within HCC. Distinct correlations emerged between high‐immune‐related scores, established markers of the tumor microenvironment and the expression of immune checkpoint genes. A significant discovery was the identification of key genes simultaneously associated with immune‐related pathways and BPA exposure. Leveraging these genes, a prognostic model was crafted, offering predictive insights into HCC patient outcomes. Intriguingly, in vitro studies suggested that BPA exposure could promote proliferation in HCC cells.

Conclusion

This research underscores the multifaceted nature of HCC’s immune microenvironment and sheds light on BPA’s potential modulatory effects therein. The constructed prognostic model, if validated further, could serve as a robust tool for risk stratification in HCC, potentially guiding therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, the implications of the findings for immunotherapy are profound, suggesting new avenues for enhancing treatment efficacy. As the battle against HCC continues, understanding of environmental modulators like BPA becomes increasingly pivotal.
Attenuation of Torque teno viral load over time in kidney transplantation recipients treated with calcineurin inhibitors is mitigated after conversion to belatacept
Authors: Bredewold O. W. , Moest W. T. , de Fijter J. W. , Meijers E. , Bruchfeld A. , Skov K. , Svensson M. H. S. , Chan J. , Mjornstedt L. , Sorensen S. S. , Fellstrom B. , Feltkamp M. C. W. , van Zonneveld A. J. , Rotmans J. I.
Published: September 2024

Torque Teno Virus (TTV) is a non‐pathogenic anellovirus, highly prevalent in healthy populations. Variations in its viral load have been associated with states of diminished immunity, as occurs after organ transplantation. It is hypothesized that TTV‐load might be used as a diagnostic tool to guide prescription and dosing of immunosuppressive drugs. Not much is known about the effects of combined immunosuppressive drugs on TTV replication in renal transplantation. Belatacept was introduced to counter side‐effects of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI). It was never widely adopted, mainly because its association with increased risk of rejection. To investigate the differential effects of a regimen based on calcineurin inhibitors versus belatacept on TTV‐loads, we measured TTV‐levels in 105 patients from two randomized controlled trials in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). We observed that time after transplantation was inversely related to TTV‐levels of patients that remained on a CNI‐containing regime, whereas this decline over time was diminished after conversion to belatacept. In addition, a correlation with tacrolimus‐trough levels and age were found. Our study is the first report on the impact of conversion from CNI to belatacept on TTV‐levels in KTR. In conclusion, the time‐related decline in TTV‐levels is mitigated after conversion from CNI to belatacept.