bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nocturnal Turbulence at Jezero Crater as Determined From MEDA Measurements and Modeling
Authors: Pla‐García Jorge , Munguira A. , Rafkin S. , Newman C. , Bertrand T. , Martínez G. , Hueso R. , Sánchez‐Lavega A. , del Río Gaztelurrutia T. , Stott A. , Murdoch N. , de la Torre Juárez M. , Lemmon M. , Chide B. , Viúdez‐Moreiras D. , Savijarvi H. , Richardson M. , Marín M. , Sebastian E. , Lepinette‐Malvitte A. , Mora L. , Rodríguez‐Manfredi J. A.
Published: July 2023

Mars 2020 Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA) instrument data acquired during half of a Martian year (Ls 13°–180°), and modeling efforts with the Mars Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (MRAMS) and the Mars Climate Database (MCD) enable the study of the seasonal evolution and variability of nocturnal atmospheric turbulence at Jezero crater. Nighttime conditions in Mars's Planetary Boundary Layer are highly stable because of strong radiative cooling that efficiently inhibits convection. However, MEDA nighttime observations of simultaneous rapid fluctuations in horizontal wind speed and air temperatures suggest the development of nighttime turbulence in Jezero crater. Mesoscale modeling with MRAMS also shows a similar pattern and enables us to investigate the origins of this turbulence and the mechanisms at play. As opposed to Gale crater, less evidence of turbulence from breaking mountain wave activity was found in Jezero during the period studied with MRAMS. On the contrary, the model suggests that nighttime turbulence at Jezero crater is explained by increasingly strong wind shear produced by the development of an atmospheric bore‐like disturbance at the nocturnal inversion interface. These atmospheric bores are produced by downslope winds from the west rim undercutting a strong low‐level jet aloft from ∼19:00 to 01:00 LTST and from ∼01:00 LTST to dawn when undercutting weak winds aloft. The enhanced wind shear leads to a reduction in the Richardson number and an onset of mechanical turbulence. Once the critical Richardson Number is reached (Ri ∼ <0.25), shear instabilities can mix warmer air aloft down to the surface.
Recent progress in quantum photonic chips for quantum communication and internet
Authors: Luo Wei , Cao Lin , Shi Yuzhi , Wan Lingxiao , Zhang Hui , Li Shuyi , Chen Guanyu , Li Yuan , Li Sijin , Wang Yunxiang , Sun Shihai , Karim Muhammad Faeyz , Cai Hong , Kwek Leong Chuan , Liu Ai Qun
Published: July 2023

Recent years have witnessed significant progress in quantum communication and quantum internet with the emerging quantum photonic chips, whose characteristics of scalability, stability, and low cost, flourish and open up new possibilities in miniaturized footprints. Here, we provide an overview of the advances in quantum photonic chips for quantum communication, beginning with a summary of the prevalent photonic integrated fabrication platforms and key components for integrated quantum communication systems. We then discuss a range of quantum communication applications, such as quantum key distribution and quantum teleportation. Finally, the review culminates with a perspective on challenges towards high-performance chip-based quantum communication, as well as a glimpse into future opportunities for integrated quantum networks.
Nitrification and beyond: metabolic versatility of ammonia oxidising archaea
Authors: Wright Chloe L , Lehtovirta-Morley Laura E
Published: July 2023

Ammonia oxidising archaea are among the most abundant living organisms on Earth and key microbial players in the global nitrogen cycle. They carry out oxidation of ammonia to nitrite, and their activity is relevant for both food security and climate change. Since their discovery nearly 20 years ago, major insights have been gained into their nitrogen and carbon metabolism, growth preferences and their mechanisms of adaptation to the environment, as well as their diversity, abundance and activity in the environment. Despite significant strides forward through the cultivation of novel organisms and omics-based approaches, there are still many knowledge gaps on their metabolism and the mechanisms which enable them to adapt to the environment. Ammonia oxidising microorganisms are typically considered metabolically streamlined and highly specialised. Here we review the physiology of ammonia oxidising archaea, with focus on aspects of metabolic versatility and regulation, and discuss these traits in the context of nitrifier ecology.
Acute social jetlag augments morning blood pressure surge: a randomized crossover trial
Authors: Nakamura Nobuhiro , Akiyama Hiroshi , Nishimura Mei , Zhu Kejing , Suzuki Katsuhiko , Higuchi Mitsuru , Tanisawa Kumpei
Published: July 2023

Although social jetlag (SJL) is generally considered a chronic condition, even acute SJL may have unfavorable effects on the cardiovascular system. We focused on the acute effects of SJL on morning blood pressure (BP) surge. This randomized crossover trial recruited 20 healthy men. In the SJL trial, participants delayed their bedtime by three hours on Friday and Saturday nights. Participants in the control (CON) trial implemented the same sleep-wake timing as on weekdays. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were performed to evaluate resting cardiovascular variables on Friday and Monday mornings, respectively. The ambulatory BP was automatically measured during the sleep and awake periods for 2 h after the participant woke up at night before pre- and post-intervention measurements. SJL (average mid-sleep time on weekends – average mid-sleep time on weekdays) occurred only in the SJL trial (SJL: 181 ± 24 min vs. CON: 8 ± 47 min). Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and morning BP surge on Monday in the SJL trial were significantly higher than those on Friday in the SJL trial (cfPWV: P = 0.001, morning BP surge: P < 0.001), and those on Monday in the CON trial (cfPWV: P = 0.007; morning BP surge: P < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was found between ΔcfPWV and Δmorning BP surge (R = 0.587, P = 0.004). These results suggest that even acute SJL augments morning BP surge. This phenomenon may correspond to increased central arterial stiffness.

State the details of Clinical Trials: Name: Effect of acute social jetlag on risk factors of lifestyle-related diseases. URL: https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000053204. Unique identifier: UMIN000046639. Registration date: 17/01/2022
A seven-transmembrane methyltransferase catalysing N-terminal histidine methylation of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases
Authors: Batth Tanveer S. , Simonsen Jonas L. , Hernández-Rollán Cristina , Brander Søren , Morth Jens Preben , Johansen Katja S. , Nørholm Morten H. H. , Hoof Jakob B. , Olsen Jesper V.
Published: July 2023

Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) are oxidative enzymes that help break down lignocellulose, making them highly attractive for improving biomass utilization in industrial biotechnology. The catalytically essential N-terminal histidine (His1) of LPMOs is post-translationally modified by methylation in filamentous fungi to protect them from auto-oxidative inactivation, however, the responsible methyltransferase enzyme is unknown. Using mass-spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics in combination with systematic CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screening in Aspergillus nidulans, we identify the N-terminal histidine methyltransferase (NHMT) encoded by the gene AN4663. Targeted proteomics confirm that NHMT was solely responsible for His1 methylation of LPMOs. NHMT is predicted to encode a unique seven-transmembrane segment anchoring a soluble methyltransferase domain. Co-localization studies show endoplasmic reticulum residence of NHMT and co-expression in the industrial production yeast Komagataella phaffii with LPMOs results in His1 methylation of the LPMOs. This demonstrates the biotechnological potential of recombinant production of proteins and peptides harbouring this specific post-translational modification.
The head mesodermal cell couples FMRFamide neuropeptide signaling with rhythmic muscle contraction in C. elegans
Authors: Choi Ukjin , Hu Mingxi , Zhang Qixin , Sieburth Derek
Published: July 2023

FMRFamides are evolutionarily conserved neuropeptides that play critical roles in behavior, energy balance, and reproduction. Here, we show that FMRFamide signaling from the nervous system is critical for the rhythmic activation of a single cell of previously unknown function, the head mesodermal cell (hmc) in C. elegans. Behavioral, calcium imaging, and genetic studies reveal that release of the FLP-22 neuropeptide from the AVL neuron in response to pacemaker signaling activates hmc every 50 s through an frpr-17 G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and a protein kinase A signaling cascade in hmc. hmc activation results in muscle contraction through coupling by gap junctions composed of UNC-9/Innexin. hmc activation is inhibited by the neuronal release of a second FMRFamide-like neuropeptide, FLP-9, which functions through its GPCR, frpr-21, in hmc. This study reveals a function for two opposing FMRFamide signaling pathways in controlling the rhythmic activation of a target cell through volume transmission.
Identification of appropriate biochemical parameters and cut points to detect Maturity Onset Diabetes of Young (MODY) in Asian Indians in a clinic setting
Authors: Aarthy Ramasamy , Aston-Mourney Kathryn , Amutha Anandakumar , Mikocka-Walus Antonina , Anjana Ranjit Mohan , Unnikrishnan Ranjit , Jebarani Saravanan , Venkatesan Ulagamathesan , Gopi Sundaramoorthy , Radha Venkatesan , Mohan Viswanathan
Published: July 2023

Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is a monogenic form of diabetes which is detected by genetic testing. We looked at clinical and biochemcial variables that could help detect possible MODY among Asian Indians with youth-onset diabetes. From the diabetes electronic medical records of a diabetes care centre in Chennai in southern India, demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical details of 34 genetically confirmed MODY participants were extracted. They were compared with patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) (n = 1011) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) (n = 1605), diagnosed below 30 years of age. Clinical and biochemical variables including body mass index (BMI), glycated hemoglobin, HDL cholesterol, and C-peptide (fasting and stimulated) were analyzed to determine whether cut points could be derived to identify individuals who could be sent for genetic testing to diagnose or rule out MODY in this ethnic group. The age at diagnosis was higher for T2D (26.5 ± 4.0 years) compared to T1D (18.2 ± 6.1 years) and MODY (17.8 ± 6.0 years). Individuals with MODY had BMI, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and C-peptide levels which were intermediate between T1D and T2D. The identified probable parameters and their cut points to identify cases for MODY genetic screening were BMI 21.2–22.7 kg/m2, glycated hemoglobin 7.2–10%, HDL cholesterol 43–45 mg/dl, fasting C -peptide, 1.2–2.1 ng/ml and stimulated C-peptide, 2.1–4.5 ng/ml. Asian Indians with MODY have clinical features that are intermediate between T1D and T2D and selected biochemical parameters, especially stimulated C peptide cut points were the most useful to diagnose MODY.
A retrospective evaluation of the Euroarray STI-11 multiplex system for the detection of eight STI causing agents
Authors: Dichtl Karl , Osterman Andreas , Forster Johannes , Jakob Lena , Suerbaum Sebastian , Flaig Michael J. , Schubert Sören , Wagener Johannes
Published: July 2023

With an incidence of more than > 1,000,000/day, sexually transmitted diseases remain a major challenge for health care systems worldwide. To reduce disease burden, complications, and spread, rapid diagnosis permitting early therapy is pivotal. The range of pathogens is wide and co-infections are common. This complicates pre-analytics, which are based on different laboratory techniques with potentially long turnaround times, e.g., cultivation and multistep serologies. Multiplex PCR provides the opportunity to overcome these limitations. In this study, we evaluated a novel assay, the Euroarray STI-11 microarray (EA; Euroimmun Medizinische Labordiagnostika), for the detection of eight obligate or facultative pathogens. Three-hundred-thirteen clinical specimens, which had been tested and pre-characterized for STI causing agents as part of routine diagnostics, were used as cases and controls in this retrospective study. The EA detected 34/44 Chlamydia trachomatis, 48/50 HSV-1, 50/50 HSV-2, 48/48 Mycoplasma hominis, 45/47 Neisseria gonorrhoeae, 9/11 Treponema pallidum, 46/46 Ureaplasma parvum, and 49/49 Ureaplasma urealyticum infections, respectively. 293 samples were EA positive, with polymicrobial infections (positive for two to six microbial or viral agents) detected in 130/293 cases. Specificities were 100% in the respective control groups (n = 18–48 depending on targeted pathogen) except for N. gonorrhoeae (25/26) and U. urealyticum (44/45). The broad spectrum of obligate and facultative pathogens targeted by the EA makes it a valuable tool in the setting of STI diagnostics and surveillance. The test has the potential to diagnose diseases neglected or overlooked in routine clinical practice. Besides a low sensitivity for C. trachomatis, the EA demonstrated high performance for all analyzed parameters. Further studies are warranted in order to capture a larger variety of the tested pathogens.
Characterization and in-vitro Alzheimer’s properties of exopolysaccharide from Bacillus maritimus MSM1
Authors: Selim Manal S. , Mohamed Sahar S. , Asker Mohsen S. , Ibrahim Abeer Y. , El-Newary Samah A. , El Awady Mohamed E.
Published: July 2023

Four bacterial isolates were obtained from marine sediments collected from Sahl Hashish, Hurghada Red Sea, Egypt. This study was designed to search for promising anti-Alzheimer natural polysaccharide; therefore, four isolates were screened for exopolysaccharides (EPSs) production and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. The isolate S16 provided the highest EPS yield (7.51 g/L) and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. It was identified morphologically and genetically using 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis asBacillus maritimus. A Physicochemical analysis of S16 exopolysaccharide (BMEPS) was estimated, which pointed to the presence of uronic acid and sulfate (24.7% and 18.3%, respectively). HPLC analysis indicated that mannuronic acid, glucuronic acid, glucose, and mannose are presented in a molar ratio of 0.8:1.0:2.8:2.3, respectively. Furthermore, FT-IR revealed an abundance of β-configurations. The GPC estimated the average molecular weight (Mw) as 4.31 × 104 g/mol. BMEPS inhibitedAChE (IC50; 691.77 ± 8.65 μg/ ml),BChE (IC50; 288.27 ± 10.50 μg/ ml), and tyrosinase (IC50; 3.34 ± 0.09, 14.00 ± 0.14, and 22.96 ± 1.23 μg/ ml during incubation durations of 10, 20, and 40 min). It also demonstrated a selective anti-inflammatory action againstCOX-2 rather thanCOX-1. Moreover, BMEPS exhibited antioxidant capabilities as free radical and oxygen reactive species (ROS) scavenger, metal chelator, reductant agent, and lipid peroxidation suppressor. These activities are due to the distinct chemical composition. The findings of this study indicate that BMEPS could be considered as promising anti-disease Alzheimer's (AD) material in anin-vitromodel, which qualifies it for advancedin-vivostudies in the discovery of alternative Alzheimer’s treatment.
Evolution of type-II hetero-strain cylindrical-gate-all-around nanowire FET for exploration and analysis of enriched performances
Authors: Barik Rasmita , Dhar Rudra Sankar , Awwad Falah , Hussein Mousa I.
Published: July 2023

The incubation of strained nano-system in the form of tri-layered structure as nanowire channel in the cylindrical-gate-all-around (CGAA) FET at 10 nm gate length is developed for the first time to keep abreast with the proposed 3 nm technology node of IRDS 2022. The system installs Type-II hetero-strain alignment in the channel attesting itself as the fastest operating device debasing the SCEs at nano regime. The ultra-thin strained-channel comprises of two cylindrical s-Si wells encompassing s-SiGe barrier in between, which enables improvement of carrier mobility by succumbing of quantum charge carriers in the region. This results in 2D charge centroid creation with cylindrical based circular Nano-system contemplating electrostatic potential difference leading to enriched electric field, current density and transconductance, while the gate-all-around architecture with increased gate controllability lowers leakage current, in the device. The 10 nm strained-channel CGAA astounded havoc ON current enhancements of ~ 20% over 22 nm strained CGAA, 57% over Si CGAA FET and 75% over proposed 3 nm technology node IRDS 2022 are accomplished. Hence, carrier mobility and velocity enriches instituting quasi-ballistic transport through the Nanowire channel, thereby augments in ~ 28% drain current so the 10 nm channel CGAA FET stands as the most suitable and improved device in nano regime.
Transcription and FACT facilitate the restoration of replication-coupled chromatin assembly defects
Authors: Barrientos-Moreno Marta , Maya-Miles Douglas , Murillo-Pineda Marina , Fontalva Sara , Pérez-Alegre Mónica , Andujar Eloísa , Prado Félix
Published: July 2023

Genome duplication occurs through the coordinated action of DNA replication and nucleosome assembly at replication forks. Defective nucleosome assembly causes DNA lesions by fork breakage that need to be repaired. In addition, it causes a loss of chromatin integrity. These chromatin alterations can be restored, even though the mechanisms are unknown. Here, we show that the process of chromatin restoration can deal with highly severe chromatin defects induced by the absence of the chaperones CAF1 and Rtt106 or a strong reduction in the pool of available histones, and that this process can be followed by analyzing the topoisomer distribution of the 2µ plasmid. Using this assay, we demonstrate that chromatin restoration is slow and independent of checkpoint activation, whereas it requires the action of transcription and the FACT complex. Therefore, cells are able to “repair” not only DNA lesions but also chromatin alterations associated with defective nucleosome assembly.
A dual mobile eye tracking study on natural eye contact during live interactions
Authors: Mayrand Florence , Capozzi Francesca , Ristic Jelena
Published: July 2023

Human eyes convey a wealth of social information, with mutual looks representing one of the hallmark gaze communication behaviors. However, it remains relatively unknown if such reciprocal communication requires eye-to-eye contact or if general face-to-face looking is sufficient. To address this question, while recording looking behavior in live interacting dyads using dual mobile eye trackers, we analyzed how often participants engaged in mutual looks as a function of looking towards the top (i.e., the Eye region) and bottom half of the face (i.e., the Mouth region). We further examined how these different types of mutual looks during an interaction connected with later gaze-following behavior elicited in an individual experimental task. The results indicated that dyads engaged in mutual looks in various looking combinations (Eye-to-eye, Eye-to-mouth, and Mouth-to-Mouth) but proportionately spent little time in direct eye-to-eye gaze contact. However, the time spent in eye-to-eye contact significantly predicted the magnitude of later gaze following response elicited by the partner’s gaze direction. Thus, humans engage in looking patterns toward different face parts during interactions, with direct eye-to-eye looks occurring relatively infrequently; however, social messages relayed during eye-to-eye contact appear to carry key information that propagates to affect subsequent individual social behavior.
EDSS and infratentorial white matter lesion volume are considered predictors of fatigue severity in RRMS
Authors: Ezzeldin Mohammed Y. , Mahmoud Doaa M. , Safwat Shady M. , Soliman Radwa Kamel , Desoky Tarek , Khedr Eman M.
Published: July 2023

Fatigue is a common disabling symptom of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Many studies have linked grey matter atrophy to fatigue, but white matter lesion load (WM-LL) has received less attention. Here we assess the relation between fatigue and regional WM-LL volumetric measures. 63 patients with RRMS participated in this study; mean age was 31.9 ± 8.1 years. Each patient provided demographic details and was scored on the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and fatigue severity scale (FSS). VolBrain, a fully automated, operator-independent tool was used to assess WM-LL and whole brain volume. The patients were classified into three groups: no fatigue (FSS < 4), low to moderate fatigue (FSS ≥ 4 ≤ 5) and high fatigue (FSS > 5). 33.3% of patients had no significant fatigue, 25.4% had mild-to-moderate fatigue, and 41.3% had significant fatigue. Age, disease duration, relapses, and EDSS were positively correlated to fatigue severity (P = 0.034, 0.002, 0.009 and 0.001 respectively). Whole brain volume, total and regional WM-LL (juxtacortical, periventricular, infratentorial) were also correlated with fatigue severity. Ordinal regression analysis for fatigue severity showed EDSS and infratentorial lesion volume were the best predictors. In conclusion, EDSS and infratentorial lesion volume (cerebellar and brainstem) are the best predictors of fatigue severity.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein induces lung endothelial cell dysfunction and thrombo-inflammation depending on the C3a/C3a receptor signalling
Authors: Perico Luca , Morigi Marina , Pezzotta Anna , Locatelli Monica , Imberti Barbara , Corna Daniela , Cerullo Domenico , Benigni Ariela , Remuzzi Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

The spike protein of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can interact with endothelial cells. However, no studies demonstrated the direct effect of the spike protein subunit 1 (S1) in inducing lung vascular damage and the potential mechanisms contributing to lung injury. Here, we found that S1 injection in mice transgenic for human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) induced early loss of lung endothelial thromboresistance at 3 days, as revealed by thrombomodulin loss and von Willebrand factor (vWF) increase. In parallel, vascular and epithelial C3 deposits and enhanced C3a receptor (C3aR) expression were observed. These changes preceded diffuse alveolar damage and lung vascular fibrin(ogen)/platelets aggregates at 7 days, as well as inflammatory cell recruitment and fibrosis. Treatment with C3aR antagonist (C3aRa) inhibited lung C3 accumulation and C3a/C3aR activation, limiting vascular thrombo-inflammation and fibrosis. Our study demonstrates that S1 triggers vascular dysfunction and activates complement system, instrumental to lung thrombo-inflammatory injury. By extension, our data indicate C3aRa as a valuable therapeutic strategy to limit S1-dependent lung pathology.
Effects of exclusive breastfeeding on educational attainment and longitudinal trajectories of grade progression among children in a 13-year follow-up study in Malawi
Authors: Mohammed Shamsudeen , Webb Emily L. , Calvert Clara , Glynn Judith R. , Sunny Bindu S. , Crampin Amelia C. , McLean Estelle , Munthali-Mkandawire Shekinah , Lazarous Nkhata Dube Albert , Kalobekamo Fredrick , Marston Milly , Oakley Laura L.
Published: July 2023

The benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for infant health and survival are well documented. However, its impact on educational outcomes has been contested and poorly researched in Africa. It has been hypothesised that positive associations reported in high-income countries can be attributed to residual confounding by socioeconomic status (SES). Our study investigated whether EBF duration in infancy is associated with educational attainment and age-for-grade attainment trajectories at school-age in rural Malawi. Longitudinal data on 1021 children at the Karonga demographic surveillance site in Malawi were analysed. Breastfeeding data were collected 3 months after birth and again at age one. The school grade of each child was recorded each year from age 6 until age 13. We calculated age-for-grade based on whether a child was at, over, or under the official expected age for a grade. Generalised estimating equations estimated the average effect of breastfeeding on age-for-grade. Latent class growth analysis identified age-for-grade trajectories, and multinomial logistic regression examined their associations with EBF. Maternal-child characteristics, SES, and HIV status were controlled. Overall, 35.9% of the children were exclusively breastfed for 6 months. Over-age for grade steadily increased from 9.6% at age 8 to 41.9% at age 13. There was some evidence that EBF for 6 months was associated with lower odds of being over-age for grade than EBF for less than 3 months (aOR = 0.82, 95%CI = 0.64–1.06). In subgroup analyses, children exclusively breastfed for 6 months in infancy were less likely to be over-age for grades between ages 6–9 (aOR = 0.64, 95%CI = 0.43–0.94). Latent class growth analysis also provided some evidence that EBF reduced the odds of falling behind in the early school grades (aOR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.41–1.08) but not later. Our study adds to the growing evidence that EBF for 6 months has benefits beyond infant health and survival, supporting the WHO's recommendation on EBF.
First-principles study on the high-pressure physical properties of orthocarbonate Ca2CO4
Authors: Liu Zi-Jiang , Li Tian , Sun Xiao-Wei , Zhang Cai-Rong , Liu Zhong-Li , Song Ting , Wen Xiao-Dong
Published: July 2023

Orthorhombic Ca2CO4is a recently discovered orthocarbonate whose high-pressure physical properties are critical for understanding the deep carbon cycle. Here, we study the structure, elastic and seismic properties of Ca2CO4-Pnmaat 20–140 GPa using first-principles calculations, and compare them with the results of CaCO3polymorphs. The results show that the structural parameters of Ca2CO4-Pnmaare in good agreement with the experimental results. It could be the potential host of carbon in the Earth's mantle subduction slab, and its low wave velocity and small anisotropy may be the reason why it cannot be detected in seismic observation. The thermodynamic properties of Ca2CO4-Pnmaat high temperature and high pressure are obtained using the quasi-harmonic approximation method. This study is helpful in understanding the behavior of Ca-carbonate in the Earth’s lower mantle conditions.
M-plane GaN terahertz quantum cascade laser structure design and doping effect for resonant-phonon and phonon-scattering-injection schemes
Authors: Ye Fan , Wang Yiyang , Wang Li , Lin Tsung-Tse , Zeng Fantai , Ji Yue , Zhang Jinchuan , Liu Fengqi , Hirayama Hideki , Wang Ke , Shi Yi , Zheng Youdou , Zhang Rong
Published: July 2023

Non-polar m-plane GaN terahertz quantum cascade laser (THz-QCL) structures have been studied. One is traditional three-well resonant-phonon (RP) design scheme. The other is two-well phonon scattering injection (PSI) design scheme. The peak gains of 41.8 and 44.2 cm−1 have been obtained at 8.2 and 7.7 THz respectively at 300 K according to the self-consistent non-equilibrium Green’s function calculation. Different from the usual GaAs two-well design, the upper and lower lasing levels are both ground states in the GaN quantum wells for the PSI scheme, mitigating the severe broadening effect for the excited states in GaN. To guide the fabrication of such devices, the doping effect on the peak gain has been analyzed. The two designs have demonstrated distinct doping density dependence and it is mainly attributed to the very different doping dependent broadening behaviors. The results reveal the possibility of GaN based THz-QCL lasing at room temperature.
The early excitatory action of striatal cholinergic-GABAergic microcircuits conditions the subsequent GABA inhibitory shift
Authors: Lozovaya Natalia , Eftekhari Sanaz , Hammond Constance
Published: July 2023

Cholinergic interneurons of the striatum play a role in action selection and associative learning by activating local GABAergic inhibitory microcircuits. We investigated whether cholinergic-GABAergic microcircuits function differently and fulfill a different role during early postnatal development, when GABAA actions are not inhibitory and mice pups do not walk. We focused our study mainly on dual cholinergic/GABAergic interneurons (CGINs). We report that morphological and intrinsic electrophysiological properties of CGINs rapidly develop during the first post-natal week. At this stage, CGINs are excited by the activation of GABAA receptors or GABAergic synaptic inputs, respond to cortical stimulation by a long excitation and are linked by polysynaptic excitations. All these excitations are replaced by inhibitions at P12-P15. Early chronic treatment with the NKCC1 antagonist bumetanide to evoke premature GABAergic inhibitions from P4 to P8, prevented the GABA polarity shift and corticostriatal pause response at control postnatal days. We propose that early excitatory cholinergic-GABAergic microcircuits are instrumental in the maturation of GABAergic inhibition.
Constructing MIL-53(Fe)@ZIF-67(Co) binary metal–organic framework hierarchical heterostructure electrodes for efficient oxygen evolution
Authors: Wen Dan , Ma Yan , Mu Guomei , Huang Qiuping , Luo Xuefeng , Lin Dunmin , Xu Chenggang , Xie Fengyu , Wang Guangzhao , Guo Wenhan
Published: July 2023

Improving the efficiency of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is important to solve the global energy crisis and greenhouse gas emission problems.
Chemical bottom-up approach for inorganic single-atomic layers aiming beyond graphene
Authors: Kambe Tetsuya , Nishihara Hiroshi , Yamamoto Kimihisa
Published: July 2023

A chemical bottom-up approach for single-atomic-layered materials like graphene is attractive due to the possibility of introducing or tuning functions. This article focuses on the synthesis and properties of the inorganic layers.
Heterostructured Co/Co3O4anchored on N-doped carbon nanotubes as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: He Xianxian , Liu Hongfei , Qin Jiangzhou , Niu Zhaodong , Mu Jincheng , Liu Baojun
Published: July 2023

The electrochemical reduction of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonia (NH3) has emerged as an attractive approach for selectively reducing NO3−to highly value-added NH3and removing NO3−pollutants simultaneously.
Association of ultra-processed food consumption with incident depression and anxiety: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Sun Mengtong , He Qida , Li Guoxian , Zhao Hanqing , Wang Yu , Ma Ze , Feng Zhaolong , Li Tongxing , Chu Jiadong , Hu Wei , Chen Xuanli , Han Qiang , Sun Na , Shen Yueping
Published: July 2023

A multistate model was used to examine the associations between UPF consumption (UPF servings, energy ratio, and weight ratio) and the incidence and progression trajectory of depression and anxiety.
Hirami lemon (Citrus reticulata var. depressa) modulates the gut–brain axis in a chronic mild stress-induced depression mouse model
Authors: Tsai Po-Heng , Wu Pei-Chen , Li Hui-Ru , Senthil Kumar K. J. , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: July 2023

Hirami lemon modulates the gut–brain axis in a chronic mild stress-induced depression mouse model.
Néel-type optical target skyrmions inherited from evanescent electromagnetic fields with rotational symmetry
Authors: Tian Bo , Jiang Jingyao , Zheng Zebo , Wang Ximiao , Liu Shaojing , Huang Wuchao , Jiang Tian , Chen Huanjun , Deng Shaozhi
Published: July 2023

Néel-type optical target skyrmions arise from transverse-magnetic-polarized evanescent electromagnetic fields with rotational symmetry. Supported on a graphene monolayer disk, these nanoscale optical skyrmions exhibit diameters of 100 nm.
Synthesis of a 1-aza-2-phospha-acenaphthene complex profiting from coordination enabled chloromethane elimination
Authors: Biskup David , Bergmann Tom , Schnakenburg Gregor , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Streubel Rainer
Published: July 2023

The formation of an annulated P-heterocycle is described using a bond activation elimination sequence through intramolecular N→P interactions in peri-substituted naphthalene derivatives and through transition metal coordination.
Exploiting reduced-symmetry ligands with pyridyl and imidazole donors to construct a second-generation stimuli-responsive heterobimetallic [PdPtL4]4+ cage
Authors: Pearcy Aston C. , Lisboa Lynn S. , Preston Dan , Page Nick B. , Lawrence Tristan , Wright L. James , Hartinger Christian G. , Crowley James D.
Published: July 2023

A new method for the assembly of a heterobimetallic [PdPtL4]4+ cage which can interact with anionic guest molecules in a specific, selective host–guest orientation is described.
Sequence-controlled alternating block polychalcogenophenes: synthesis, structural characterization, molecular properties, and transistors for bromine detection
Authors: Huang Kuo-Hsiu , Liu Huai-Hsuan , Cheng Kuang-Yi , Tsai Chia-Lin , Cheng Yen-Ju
Published: July 2023

A novel class of sequence-controlled alternating block conjugated polychalcogenophenes has been successfully synthesized and utilized for the detection of bromine gas.
pH- and temperature-responsive supramolecular assemblies with highly adjustable viscoelasticity: a multi-stimuli binary system
Authors: Lin Yu-Ting , Liu Shuhao , Bhat Bhargavi , Kuan Kai-Yuan , Zhou Wentao , Cobos Ignacio Jose , Kwon Joseph Sang-Il , Akbulut Mustafa E. S.
Published: July 2023

Stimuli-responsive materials are increasingly needed for the development of smart electronic, mechanical, and biological devices and systems relying on switchable, tunable, and adaptable properties.
Nitrification in acidic and alkaline environments
Authors: Ni Gaofeng , Leung Pok Man , Daebeler Anne , Guo Jianhua , Hu Shihu , Cook Perran , Nicol Graeme W. , Daims Holger , Greening Chris
Published: July 2023

Aerobic nitrification is a key process in the global nitrogen cycle mediated by microorganisms. While nitrification has primarily been studied in near-neutral environments, this process occurs at a wide range of pH values, spanning ecosystems from acidic soils to soda lakes. Aerobic nitrification primarily occurs through the activities of ammonia-oxidising bacteria and archaea, nitrite-oxidising bacteria, and complete ammonia-oxidising (comammox) bacteria adapted to these environments. Here, we review the literature and identify knowledge gaps on the metabolic diversity, ecological distribution, and physiological adaptations of nitrifying microorganisms in acidic and alkaline environments. We emphasise that nitrifying microorganisms depend on a suite of physiological adaptations to maintain pH homeostasis, acquire energy and carbon sources, detoxify reactive nitrogen species, and generate a membrane potential at pH extremes. We also recognize the broader implications of their activities primarily in acidic environments, with a focus on agricultural productivity and nitrous oxide emissions, as well as promising applications in treating municipal wastewater.
Adapting to New Hearing Aids and Hearing Aid Adjustments in Adult Danish Users
Authors: Narayanan Sreeram K. , Houmller Sabina S. , Wolff Anne , Hougaard Dan D. , Gaihede Michael , Schmidt Jesper H. , Hammershi Dorte
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

This study was aimed at understanding the effect of time taken to adapt to the new hearing aids (HAs) and the timeline of HA adjustments performed over more than a year of rehabilitation on self-reported HA outcomes.

Method:

A self-report of the time it took to get accustomed to the new HAs and adjustment of the HAs during a year of rehabilitation collected from 690 HA users using a nonstandardized questionnaire were analyzed. The abbreviated version of the Speech, Spatial, and Quality of Hearing questionnaire and the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids were used as the self-reported HA outcome.

Result:

Out of 690 participants, 442 (64%) got accustomed to HAs within 2 months. Ninety-one participants (13%) did not get accustomed to the HAs at all, out of which 74 (81%) were first-time HA users. Eighty-four participants (12%) did not receive any HA adjustments after their initial fitting, and 49 (7%) had their HAs adjusted four or more times during the 1 year of rehabilitation. Three hundred ninety (57%) participants got their HA adjusted only at the 2-month follow-up visit, showing the intent to adjust given an opportunity. The stepwise multiple linear regression results showed the significant impact of getting accustomed to the HA and having HA adjusted at multiple instances on the self-reported HA outcomes.

Conclusion:

This study showed the importance of getting accustomed to the HA and having a minimal number of adjustments to have a better long-term self-reported HA outcome.
CrossFormer: Multi‐scale cross‐attention for polyp segmentation
Authors: Chen Lifang , Ge Hongze , Li Jiawei
Published: July 2023

Colonoscopy is a common method for the early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC). The segmentation of colonoscopy imagery is valuable for examining the lesion. However, as colonic polyps have various sizes and shapes, and their morphological characteristics are similar to those of mucosa, it is difficult to segment them accurately. To address this, a novel neural network architecture called CrossFormer is proposed. CrossFormer combines cross‐attention and multi‐scale methods, which can achieve high‐precision automatic segmentation of the polyps. A multi‐scale cross‐attention module is proposed to enhance the ability to extract context information and learn different features. In addition, a novel channel enhancement module is used to focus on the useful channel information. The model is trained and tested on the Kvasir and CVC‐ClinicDB datasets. Experimental results show that the proposed model outperforms most existing polyps segmentation methods.
Demonstration of gallium oxide nano-pillar field emitter arrays
Authors: Kim Taeyoung , Joishi Chandan , Xia Zhanbo , Kalarickal Nidhin Kurian , Selcu Camelia , Back Tyson , Ludwick Jonathan , Rajan Siddharth
Published: July 2023

We demonstrate field emission characteristics of β-Ga2O3 nano-pillar arrays fabricated using a damage-free etching technique. The technique utilizes Ga flux in an ultra-high vacuum environment (molecular beam epitaxy) to form high aspect ratio Ga2O3 nano-pillars with atomic-scale etching precision. Electrically conductive Ga2O3 nano-pillars with uniform widths of ∼200–300 nm were realized without the use of e-beam lithography. Furthermore, field emission characteristics on the nano-pillars displayed an emission current of 19 nA per tip at an electric field of 385 kV/cm. The field emission characteristics were modeled using the Murphy–Good model, and the measurements were validated with a field emission orthodoxy test.
Design and fabrication of TiO2-based dye sensitized solar cells using plant-derived organic dyes
Authors: Asfaw Gabriel Gashahun , Benti Natei Ermias , Desta Mekonnen Abebayehu , Mekonnen Yedilfana Setarge
Published: July 2023

The utilization of solar energy, an abundant and renewable resource, shows great promise. Various technologies have been employed to capture this vast energy potential. In this study, the effectiveness of natural dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) was explored through experimental and computational methods. Organic dyes derived from specific plant species were examined, with a solvent mixture of ethanol, methanol, and tetrahydrofuran used for extraction. A UV–vis spectrophotometer was utilized to measure the sensitizers’ optical characteristics. The study employed density functional theory (DFT), implemented in Gaussian 09 W software, to perform computational calculations. The B3LYP method and a basis set of 6-31G++(d,p) were chosen for optimizing the geometries and energetics of dye molecules. The DFT results indicated that the dye molecules had a bandgap in the range of 2.16–2.38 eV. The photochemical performance of all four fabricated DSSC-based devices was evaluated to be between 0.33% and 1.04%, and the Euryops pectinatus sensitizer demonstrated the highest efficiency of 1.04% among the studied sensitizers.
Spatial continuous-flow polymerase chain reaction structure controlled by single-temperature driver
Authors: Zhou Ranran , Ding Yanguang , Sun Yu , Yang Jing , Yu Yang , Pang Jianxin , Chen Jin , Wang Fengchao
Published: July 2023

A spatial continuous-flow polymerase chain reaction microfluidic chip was designed with the traditional plane channel replaced by a vertical-cavity channel by a single-temperature driver. To optimize the design, the temperature distribution in the microchannel of this chip was simulated by the finite-element method with various structural parameters and fluid velocities. The results show that the fluid produces three temperature zones of 94–95, 54–56, and 71–73 °C when the chip size is 54 mm (x) × 78 mm (y) × 47 mm (z), the wall thickness is 2 mm (x) × 20 mm (y) × 2 mm (z), and the pipe diameter is 1 mm. To increase the polymerase chain reaction amplification efficiency, we considered fluid velocities in the range of 0.0005–0.002 m/s. The optimal temperature for polymerase chain reaction amplification occurs at a fluid velocity of 0.0005 m/s.
Characteristics of a nanosecond pulsed sliding discharge plasma actuator at low pressure
Authors: Sun Qijie , Geng Xi , Li Zheng , Shi Zhiwei , Sun Zhikun , Cheng Keming
Published: July 2023

The behavior of a nanosecond pulsed sliding discharge plasma actuator with the ambient pressure from 27 to 101 kPa is experimentally investigated. The electric characteristics, discharge morphologies, and surface temperature distribution of the actuator supplied by constant voltages are studied under different pressure conditions. The threshold pressure for sliding discharge establishment is 54–75 kPa in this paper. The results show that the positive peak value of the current tends to increase as the pressure decreases. Time-integrated discharge images indicate that plasma luminosity and uniformity are enhanced under low-pressure conditions. The discharge morphology of the actuator at 27 kPa displays an alternating distribution of bright and dark stripes. The infrared thermal results demonstrate that decreasing the pressure increases the actuator's surface temperature, intensifies the intensity of spanwise temperature oscillations, and improves the homogeneity in the streamwise direction.
Redevelopment of undergraduate food microbiology capstone projects for unprecedented emergency remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic: then and now
Authors: Zhang Yianna , Ranadheera Chaminda Senaka
Published: July 2023

Unprecedented emergency remote teaching (ERT) during the COVID-19 lockdowns has hindered research-based learning in the life sciences worldwide, holding potential consequences for the students’ ability to develop essential skills for the contemporary workforce. In this article, we report redevelopment of an undergraduate capstone subject in the food science major at The University of Melbourne for bichronous ERT delivery, which previously aimed to provide students with analytical, problem-solving and communication skills through laboratory-based practical experimentation or internship projects. When in-person exchanges became unfeasible during 2020, we redesigned the online learning environment to best facilitate personalised learning and collaborative relationships between learners, instructors and subject content. This includes the redevelopment of laboratory-based projects as data mining or literature reviews delivered under four major themes including food microbiology. Despite the drawbacks in peer-based interactions through remote delivery, participation in design-based research remains a viable approach to support students in gaining essential transferrable skills during ERT.
The influence of animal ownership on mental health for people with severe mental illness: Findings from a UK population cohort study
Authors: Shoesmith Emily , Lorimer Ben , Peckham Emily , Walker Lauren , Ratschen Elena
Published: July 2023

Background and aims: There is increasing evidence to suggest companion animal ownership may positively impact mental health and wellbeing. However, there is limited research related to the role of companion animal ownership for mental health that focuses on people living with severe mental illness (SMI). We aimed to explore the connection among loneliness, mental health, wellbeing, animal ownership, and the perceived strength of the human-animal bond in this population.

Methods: We conducted a survey in an existing UK cohort of people living with SMI. The survey questionnaire included standardized measures to collect information related to mental health, loneliness, and the perceived strength of the human-animal bond.

Results: Of 286 participants who had previously consented to participate in the follow-up survey, 170 participants (59.4%) completed the survey. Of these, 81 (47.6%) owned at least one animal, and most perceived to have a strong human-animal bond with their companion animal as indicated by the Comfort from Companion Animals Scale (M = 39.80 of a maximum score of 44). However, regression analyses showed that owning an animal was not significantly associated with wellbeing, depression, anxiety, or loneliness scores. Likewise, the perceived strength of the human-animal bond was not significantly associated with animal species owned or wellbeing, depression, and anxiety scores.

Conclusion: The findings provide a counterpoint to the commonly held assumption that companion animals are beneficial for all owners’ mental health. Further exploration of the role of human-animal relationships, including challenges and support needs related to animal ownership, in people living with SMI is required.
Solar diffraction of LIGO-band gravitational waves
Authors: Jung Sunghoon , Kim Sungjung
Published: July 2023

We show that chirping gravitational waves in the LIGO frequency band f = 1–5000 Hz can be gravitationally diffracted by the Sun, due to the coincidence of its Fresnel length rF
∝ √1 AU/f and the solar radius r
⊙. This solar diffraction is potentially detectable through its frequency-dependent amplification of the wave. The detection rate with Einstein Telescope is estimated to be ∼ 1/1000 per year, with the optical depth ∝ (solar angular area on the sky)/4π. High-frequency regimes of merger and ringdown phases are found to be crucial. In addition to the discovery, we advocate that solar diffraction allows probing the inner solar density profile, as rF
sweeps a range of solar radius during the chirping. These physics are captured by a formalism in terms of convergence and shear, which allows much easier estimation and more intuitive understanding. Solar diffraction can be a new opportunity with ongoing and future LIGO-band missions.
The synthesis of high-temperature resistant SiC fiber membrane by centrifugal spinning
Authors: Chen Tianxie , Zhang Qingyu , Kang Weifeng , Gou Yanzi
Published: July 2023

SiC fibers have urgent application requirements under extreme conditions due to their excellent properties such as thermal stability, radiation resistance and high modulus. In this work, SiC fiber membranes with two-dimensional micro-nano fiber interwoven structures were synthesized by centrifugal spinning. TG results show that SiC fiber has good high-temperature resistance and oxidation resistance. There is no obvious damage to the SiC fiber membrane under the oxyacetylene flame heating at about 1450 °C. At heat treatment temperatures up to 2000 °C, the SiC fiber membrane still exhibits structural stability. The minimum diameter of SiC fibers is 0.7 μm. SiC fiber membranes exhibit superior mechanical and chemical stability under extreme temperature conditions. This work will help to prepare high-performance ceramic fiber membranes with different material systems.