bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projection-specific circuits of retrosplenial cortex with differential contributions to spatial cognition
Authors: Lin Xiaoxiao , Ghafuri Ali , Chen Xiaojun , Kazmi Musab , Nitz Douglas A. , Xu Xiangmin
Published: November 2024

Retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is a brain region involved in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. It has reciprocal connections with a diverse set of cortical and subcortical brain regions, but the afferent structure and behavioral function of circuits defined by its projection-specific sub-populations have yet to be determined. The corticocortical connections between RSC and secondary motor cortex (M2), as well as corticothalamic connections between RSC and anterodorsal thalamus (AD) have been hypothesized to function as semi-independent, but parallel pathways that impact spatial information processing in distinct ways. We used retrograde and anterograde viral tracers and monosynaptic retrograde rabies virus to quantitatively characterize and compare the afferent and efferent distributions of retrosplenial neuron sub-populations projecting to M2 and AD. AD-projecting and M2-projecting RSC neurons overlap in their collateral projections to other brain regions, but not in their projections to M2 and AD, respectively. Compared with AD-projecting RSC neurons, M2-projecting RSC neurons received much greater afferent input from the dorsal subiculum, AD, lateral dorsal and lateral posterior thalamus, and somatosensory cortex. AD-projecting RSC neurons received greater input from the anterior cingulate cortex and medial septum. We performed chemogenetic inhibition of M2- and AD-projecting RSC neurons and examined its impact on object-location memory, object-recognition, open-field exploration, and place-action association. Our findings indicate that inhibition of M2-projecting RSC neurons impairs object location memory as well as place-action association, while the RSC to AD pathway impacts only object-location memory. The findings indicate that RSC is composed of semi-independent circuits distinguishable by their afferent/efferent distributions and differing in the cognitive functions to which they contribute.
Comparison of BiliCocoon phototherapy with overhead phototherapy in hyperbilirubinemic neonates. A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Donneborg Mette L. , Vandborg Pernille K. , Bruun Niels H. , Bender Lars , Møller Tina , Thomsen Helle H. , Ebbesen Finn
Published: November 2024

Background

Around 2–6% of term or late preterm neonates receive phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia. Standard treatment today is overhead phototherapy. A new device has been developed, the BiliCocoon, where the neonates are “wrapped” presumably making them more comfortable. The aim was to compare the efficacy and performance of the BiliCocoon with overhead LED phototherapy.

Methods

A randomized open-label multicenter trial in three Danish neonatal units. Healthy hyperbilirubinemic neonates, gestational age ≥33 weeks and postnatal age 24 h to 14 days were randomized to 24 hours’ of treatment with BiliCocoon or overhead blue LED phototherapy with an equal level of irradiance. A mixed effect model with random effect by center was used to compare the percentage decrease in total serum bilirubin (TSB) between the treatments.

Results

Totally 83 neonates were included. Mean TSB reduction in the BiliCocoon group (N = 42), adjusted for baseline TSB, was significantly lower than in the overhead LED group (N = 41), 29% vs. 38% (p-value < 0.01). Overall difference in temperature by treatment (BiliCocoon vs overhead) was 0.70 [0.37; 1.02] °C, p-value < 0.01.

Conclusion

Bilirubin reducing efficacy of BiliCocoon was lower than that of overhead phototherapy, but it was sufficient for nearly all neonates during 24 hours of treatment.

Impact

The BiliCocoon has a bilirubin reducing efficacy, sufficient for almost all neonates during 24 hours of phototherapy.

The BiliCocoon does not have an equal bilirubin reducing efficacy as overhead phototherapy.

The duration of light exposure was longer for the neonates treated in the BiliCocoon.

A few neonates can be exclusively breastfed in the BiliCocoon throughout the treatment.

The reason for stopping breastfeeding in the BiliCocoon was most often, that the neonates developed hyperthermia.
Real-world evidence for pembrolizumab in non-small cell lung cancer: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Hektoen Helga H. , Tsuruda Kaitlyn M. , Fjellbirkeland Lars , Nilssen Yngvar , Brustugun Odd Terje , Andreassen Bettina K.
Published: November 2024

Background

Based on favourable results from clinical trials, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have become the standard first line (1 L) systemic anticancer treatment (SACT) for advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without targetable mutations. We evaluate whether these results are generalizable to everyday clinical practice and compare overall survival (OS) of patients treated with ICI to a historical cohort of patients treated with chemotherapy and results from clinical trials.

Methods

Our study comprised all advanced NSCLC patients initiating SACT in 2012–21 in Norway. Clinical characteristics and treatment information was retrieved from Norwegian Health Registries.

Results

Survival for all 8416 advanced NSCLC patients treated with SACT increased concurrently with the gradual implementation of ICIs. Median OS of patients treated with 1 L pembrolizumab after 2017 was better (mono-/combination therapy: 13.8/12.8 months) than for patients treated with chemotherapy before 2017 (8.0 months). Although median OS for patients treated with pembrolizumab was lower in clinical practice than clinical trials (Keynote-024/189: 26.3/22.0 months), the survival benefit relative to chemotherapy was similar.

Conclusion

Our nationwide study demonstrated a survival benefit over conventional chemotherapy of a similar magnitude as observed in clinical trials and confirms the effectiveness of pembrolizumab in routine clinical practice.
The structure and function of P5A-ATPases
Authors: Li Ping , Bågenholm Viktoria , Hägglund Per , Lindkvist-Petersson Karin , Wang Kaituo , Gourdon Pontus
Published: November 2024

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane resident P5A-ATPases broadly affect protein biogenesis and quality control, and yet their molecular function remains debated. Here, we report cryo-EM structures of a P5A-ATPase, CtSpf1, covering multiple transport intermediates of the E1 → E1-ATP → E1P-ADP → E1P → E2P → E2.Pi → E2 → E1 cycle. In the E2P and E2.Pi states a cleft spans the entire membrane, holding a polypeptide cargo molecule. The cargo includes an ER luminal extension, pinpointed as the C-terminus in the E2.Pi state, which reenters the membrane in E2P. The E1 structure harbors a cytosol-facing cavity that is blocked by an insertion we refer to as the Plug-domain. The Plug-domain is nestled to key ATPase features and is displaced in the E1P-ADP and E1P states. Collectively, our findings are compatible with a broad range of proteins as cargo, with the P5A-ATPases serving a role in membrane removal of helices, although insertion/secretion cannot be excluded, as well as with a mechanistic role of the Plug-domain.
Talin and vinculin combine their activities to trigger actin assembly
Authors: Wang Hong , Said Rayan , Nguyen-Vigouroux Clémence , Henriot Véronique , Gebhardt Peter , Pernier Julien , Grosse Robert , Le Clainche Christophe
Published: November 2024

Focal adhesions (FAs) strengthen their link with the actin cytoskeleton to resist force. Talin-vinculin association could reinforce actin anchoring to FAs by controlling actin polymerization. However, the actin polymerization activity of the talin-vinculin complex is not known because it requires the reconstitution of the mechanical and biochemical activation steps that control the association of talin and vinculin. By combining kinetic and binding assays with single actin filament observations in TIRF microscopy, we show that the association of talin and vinculin mutants, mimicking mechanically stretched talin and activated vinculin, triggers a sequential mechanism in which filaments are nucleated, capped and released to elongate. In agreement with these observations, FRAP experiments in cells co-expressing the same constitutive mutants of talin and vinculin revealed accelerated growth of stress fibers. Our findings suggest a versatile mechanism for the regulation of actin assembly in FAs subjected to various combinations of biochemical and mechanical cues.
Parity-independent Kondo effect of correlated electrons in electrostatically defined ZnO quantum dots
Authors: Noro Kosuke , Kozuka Yusuke , Matsumura Kazuma , Kumasaka Takeshi , Fujiwara Yoshihiro , Tsukazaki Atsushi , Kawasaki Masashi , Otsuka Tomohiro
Published: November 2024

Quantum devices such as spin qubits have been extensively investigated in electrostatically confined quantum dots using high-quality semiconductor heterostructures like GaAs and Si. Here, we present a demonstration of electrostatically forming the quantum dots in ZnO heterostructures. Through the transport measurement, we uncover the distinctive signature of the Kondo effect independent of the even-odd electron number parity, which contrasts with the typical behavior of the Kondo effect in GaAs. By analyzing temperature and magnetic field dependences, we find that the absence of the even-odd parity in the Kondo effect is not straightforwardly interpreted by the considerations developed for conventional semiconductors. We propose that, based on the unique parameters of ZnO, electron correlation likely plays a fundamental role in this observation. Our study not only clarifies the physics of correlated electrons in the quantum dot but also holds promise for applications in quantum devices, leveraging the unique features of ZnO.
Enhanced production of 60Fe in massive stars
Authors: Spyrou A. , Richman D. , Couture A. , Fields C. E. , Liddick S. N. , Childers K. , Crider B. P. , DeYoung P. A. , Dombos A. C. , Gastis P. , Guttormsen M. , Hermansen K. , Larsen A. C. , Lewis R. , Lyons S. , Midtbø J. E. , Mosby S. , Muecher D. , Naqvi F. , Palmisano-Kyle A. , Perdikakis G. , Prokop C. , Schatz H. , Smith M. K. , Sumithrarachchi C. , Sweet A.
Published: November 2024

Massive stars are a major source of chemical elements in the cosmos, ejecting freshly produced nuclei through winds and core-collapse supernova explosions into the interstellar medium. Among the material ejected, long-lived radioisotopes, such as 60Fe (iron) and 26Al (aluminum), offer unique signs of active nucleosynthesis in our galaxy. There is a long-standing discrepancy between the observed 60Fe/26Al ratio by γ-ray telescopes and predictions from supernova models. This discrepancy has been attributed to uncertainties in the nuclear reaction networks producing 60Fe, and one reaction in particular, the neutron-capture on 59Fe. Here we present experimental results that provide a strong constraint on this reaction. We use these results to show that the production of 60Fe in massive stars is higher than previously thought, further increasing the discrepancy between observed and predicted 60Fe/26Al ratios. The persisting discrepancy can therefore not be attributed to nuclear uncertainties, and points to issues in massive-star models.
Design of a square-horn hybrid plasmonic nano-antenna array using a flat lens for optical wireless applications with beam-steering capabilities
Authors: Helmy Fatma E. , Ibrahim Ibrahim I. , Saleh Amany M.
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces a Hybrid Plasmonic Nano-Antenna (HPNA) with a gradient-index dielectric flat lens modeled with different materials to enhance and steer the radiation in a particular direction based on a phase shift array. Firstly, the design of hybrid plasmonic Nano-Antenna (NA) is introduced and analyzed considering different horn-shapes such as diamond, hexagonal, circular, rectangular, and square shapes. The commercial software Computer Simulation Technology-Microwave Studio (CST-MWS) is used to analyze the radiation characteristics of the plasmonic NAs at the standard telecommunication wavelength of 1,550 nm. The produced horn-shaped nano-antenna made up from gold cladding with low- and high-index dielectric materials of SiO2 and InGaAs, respectively. The gain of the Square Horn shape Hybrid Plasmonic Nano-Antenna (SHHPNA) achieves the greatest gain with a value of 10.7 dBi at the desired frequency and the return loss reached -18.09 dB due to the wide aperture area for SHHPNA, which results in a narrower beam-width and higher gain. Moreover, by using two different shapes of dielectric flat lens to enhance the antenna’s performance by improving directivity while correspondingly reducing beam-width, the gain is enhanced and reaches 16.7 for SHHPNA with a circular lens and 16.9 for SHHPNA with a rectangular lens compared with the traditional NA that equal to 9.03 dBi. The main lobe for SHHPNA with each lens is more directed, with Side Lobe Level (SLL) and Half Power Beam-Width (HPBW) of -13.1 dB and 16.5° for SHHPNA with a circular lens and -15.1 dB and 15.4° for SHHPNA with a rectangular lens, respectively. In addition, the array configuration was investigated, and the gain was found to be 21 dBi for the single row array of 4×1 and 23.2 dB for the array of 3×3. Moreover, the array of 4×1 and 3×3 with +90° showed gains of 18.6 dBi and 20.7 dBi, respectively, compared to traditional paper with gains of 11.20 dBi and 13.1 dBi.
Design and predict the potential of imidazole-based organic dyes in dye-sensitized solar cells using fingerprint machine learning and supported by a web application
Authors: Elsenety Mohamed M.
Published: November 2024

This scientific paper presents a novel approach to explore and predict the potential of imidazole-based organic dyes for use in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) using a machine learning web application. The design of efficient and cost-effective organic dyes is critical to enhance the performance of DSSCs. Traditional experimental methods are time-consuming and resource-intensive, making it challenging to screen a large number of potential dyes. In this study, we propose a machine learning-based approach to accelerate the discovery process by predicting the photovoltaic performance of imidazole-based organic dyes. Machin learning predictions provide valuable insights into the expected PCE% and behaviors of the molecules toward DSSCs. Based on the RDKit library, several fingerprints such as Molecular ACCess System, Avalon, Daylight, Pharmacophore and Morgan with different radius (r2, r3, r4), were studied. In addition, more than 20 ML algorithms using different cross validation (3, 5, 7, 10) were also evaluated. Among of these, Deep Neural Network models of MLPRegressor algorithm based on the daylight fingerprint shows a significant coefficient of determination combined with the lowest errors. Utilize the trained ML models to screen of 50 million SMILE structure for identify promising imidazole and nitrogen-containing derivative as a doner group. By replacing the donor groups in the well-known MK2 dye structure with the top imidazole derivatives proposed by machine learning, significant improvements in PCE were observed, increasing from 7.70% to as high as 11.49%, representing nearly a 50% enhancement over the control. DFT calculations confirm the ML predictions and clarify the significantly higher oscillator strength and charge transfer properties of MK2-DM1, compared to MK2. This result provides a promising pathway for developing new dye materials that can push the efficiency limits of DSSCs, leading to more efficient solar energy conversion technologies in the future. In addition, a developed web application offers a user-friendly interface for researchers to input their molecular structures and obtain PCE% predictions toward DSSCs. This information can guide researchers in designing a new imidazole dye with high photovoltaic performance to validate and refine the predictions without time consuming.
The emotional effect of terrorism
Authors: Bove Vincenzo , Efthyvoulou Georgios , Ghazaryan Armine , Pickard Harry
Published: November 2024

Terrorism causes emotional reactions among public audiences, with downstream consequences for their well-being, attitudes and policy preferences. We utilise a novel approach which harnesses a unique dataset of Twitter activity from 324K users to precisely capture emotional responses to terrorism. Our results demonstrate that terrorist attacks induce dramatic spikes in various discrete emotions of a negative valence, which vary based on the characteristics of the attacks. Furthermore, we show that the terrorism-induced effects on emotions are accompanied by changes in feelings about immigration.
Comparative toxicity of three variant oils and their nanoemulsions on the brown dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus
Authors: Abdel-Ghany Hoda S.M. , Ayoob Fathalla , Abdel-Shafy Sobhy , Soliman Ahmed A. F. , Gebely Mohamed A. , Abuowarda Mai
Published: November 2024

Tick control mainly depends on using chemical acaricides that have led to the emergence of resistant tick populations along with environmental hazards. Natural alternatives including essential oils are now widely used to avoid the undesirable effects of chemicals on human, animals and environment. In this study, three commercial oils (myrrh, patchouli, and cypress) and their nanoemulsions (NEs) were tested against Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato unfed adults. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were used to characterize the nanoemulsions. Four concentrations with three replicates were used in the bioassay of oils and NEs against ticks using an adult immersion test. Furthermore, a toxicity study of the three oils and their NEs using normal fibroblast cells (BJ-1) was performed. TEM revealed particle size ranges from 29 to 211 nm with spherical droplets. The droplet size and polydispersity index were (29.30 nm & 0.367), (211.6 nm & 0.221) and (164.2 nm & 0.237) for myrrh NE, patchouli NE, and cypress NE, respectively. Myrrh and patchouli oils recorded high acaricidal activity followed by cypress oil with LC50 value 5 days after treatment of 9.01, 12.40, and 15.21%, respectively. The acaricidal efficacy of oil was potentiated in the NEs form which was proved by the reduction in LC50 values that were recorded 7 days after treatment 4.17, 8.57, and 5.04%, for myrrh, patchouli, and cypress NE, respectively. As an alternative for lab animals, we applied the cytotoxicity of myrrh, patchouli, and cypress on normal fibroblast cells. The oils showed low cytotoxic activity of 10.6, 21.5, and 23.6% for Myrrh, Patchouli, and Cypress, respectively. The nanoemulsion was revealed to be safe for normal cells up to a concentration of 0.62% (cytotoxicity%= 24.4, 34.4, and 16.3%, respectively), and the moderate cytotoxic effect appeared at around a concentration of 1.25% (cytotoxicity%= 42.2%, 57.0%, and 36.8% respectively). In conclusion, the three oils and their NEs have good acaricidal activity against Rhipicephalus sanguineus unfed adults. Further toxicity studies on mammals are needed to ensure the safe use of these formulations for the control of ticks on infested animals.
Combining genetic and single-cell expression data reveals cell types and novel candidate genes for orofacial clefting
Authors: Siewert Anna , Hoeland Simone , Mangold Elisabeth , Ludwig Kerstin U.
Published: November 2024

Non-syndromic cleft lip with/without cleft palate (nsCL/P) is one of the most common birth defects and has a multifactorial etiology. To date, over 45 loci harboring common risk variants have been identified. However, the effector genes at these loci, and the cell types that are affected by risk alleles, remain largely unknown. To address this, we combined genetic data from an nsCL/P genome-wide association study (GWAS) with single-cell RNA sequencing data obtained from the heads of unaffected human embryos. Using the recently developed single-cell disease relevance score (scDRS) approach, we identified two major cell types involved in nsCL/P development, namely the epithelium and the HAND2+ pharyngeal arches (PA). Combining scDRS with co-expression networks and differential gene expression analysis, we prioritized nsCL/P candidate genes, some of which were additionally supported by GWAS data (e.g., CTNND1, PRTG, RPL35A, RAB11FIP1, KRT19). Our results suggest that specific epithelial and PA sub-cell types are involved in nsCL/P development, and harbor a substantial fraction of the genetic risk for nsCL/P.
Geoelectrical resistivity and geochemistry monitoring of landfill leachates due to the seasonal variations and the implications on groundwater systems and public health
Authors: Alao Joseph Omeiza , Otorkpa Oche Joseph , Abubakar Fahad , Eshimiakhe Daniel , Aliyu Abubakar , Abdulsalami Momohjimoh , Abdulmalik Danga Onimisi
Published: November 2024

Understanding the seasonal variations in the landfill leachate plumes (LLPs) properties and complex connections between concentrations of leachate variability, and its environment is essential for environmental and public health management. This study explores the combined electrical resistivity (ER) data and physiochemical water analysis (PWA) coupled with the excavations to monitor the landfill physiochemical properties (LPPs) due to seasonal variations and their implications on environmental vital organs and public health. The variations in ER and LLP distributions across the overburdened top layer due to seasonal changes were examined. The low ER contrasts were encountered within the ranges of 1.5 Ωm – 19.0 Ωm which was mapped as LLP accumulated zones within the landfill, while high ER values varied between 15 Ωm – 260 Ωm off-the landfill extending beyond 15 m. The results of the PWA indicate high concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) such as iron (Fe), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) decreasing with wet seasons and increasing with dry seasons. The overall high concentration of HMs in the LLPs was indeed varied between 9.81 ± 2.15–19.07 ± 3.68, while the electrical conductivity (EC) significantly increased from 17.99 ± 1.92 mg/L to 24.87 ± 3.31 mg/L towards the wet season. The increment and decrement encountered in the LPPs are due to seasonal variation and dilution. The order of decrement in the HMs in the LLPs treads as follows EC > Fe > Zn > Pb > Cd in values, respectively. The near-surface EC aligned well with the ER results and boundaries of the waste disposal site, which was verified by the soil excavations. In addition, the ER method was extended beyond the landfill for adequate monitoring, identifying the subsurface layers, conductive shallow zones mapped as the zones of LLP accumulation, resistive deep and shallow zones mapped as the consolidated lateritic topsoil and crystalline basement rocks in some cases, and a dipping conductive lineament zones identified as fracture zones just before the crystalline basement. In conclusion, the ER technique reveals the vertical and horizontal extents of the LLP escapade, the PWA expressed the concentrations of HMs in the LLPs, heightening the implications on the environmental and human health. Finally, the combined techniques deployed for monitoring the physiochemical properties of LLPs due to seasonal variation and the impacts on the integrity of groundwater quality systems and public health inform sustainable waste management practices, which contributes significantly to the protection of groundwater resources and the development of effective strategies to safeguard groundwater systems and public health for present and future generations.
Leukocytes telomere length as a biomarker of adverse drug reactions induced by Osimertinib in advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Trachu Narumol , Reungwetwattana Thanyanan , Meanwatthana Jennis , Sukasem Chonlaphat , Majam Teerapat , Saengsiwaritt Wacharapol , Jittikoon Jiraphun , Udomsinprasert Wanvisa
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to measure relative telomere length (RTL) in blood leukocytes of advanced-stage NSCLC patients either with or without Osimertinib-induced ADRs and determine whether RTL could serve as a biomarker of Osimertinib-induced ADRs. Blood leukocytes RTL were measured in 63 advanced-stage NSCLC patients and 62 age-matched healthy controls using real-time polymerase chain reaction. In patients with advanced-stage NSCLC, RTL was significantly shorter than that in healthy controls (P < 0.001). Compared to patients without ADRs and those with mild/moderate ADRs, patients with severe ADRs exhibited significantly decreased RTL (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). ROC curve analysis uncovered a diagnostic value of RTL as a biomarker of Osimertinib-induced ADRs (AUC = 1.000, P < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a significant association between shorter RTL and increased cumulative incidence of Osimertinib-induced ADRs in patients with advanced-stage NSCLC (P < 0.001). Shorter RTL in blood leukocytes would reflect the occurrence of Osimertinib-induced ADRs and might emerge as a promising biomarker for identifying advanced-stage NSCLC patients who are at risk of experiencing Osimertinib-induced ADRs, particularly those with severe ADRs.
QTL mapping and transcriptome analysis of seed germination under PEG-induced water stress in Lactuca spp.
Authors: Hwang Sadal , Simko Ivan , Mou Beiquan
Published: November 2024

The impact of limited water availability on lettuce growth has been well documented. However, the mechanisms by which lettuce controls seed germination under water stress remain unknown. Germination percentage was evaluated in the cv. Salinas (Lactuca sativa) (L. sativa) × US96UC23 (Lactuca serriola) (L. serriola) recombinant inbred line (RIL) population and USDA germplasm collection using 10% polyethylene glycol (PEG). About 50% of both populations displayed less than 90% germination. The average broad-sense heritability (H2) for germination percentage was 0.81 across both populations. Two quantitative trait loci (QTL) for germination percentage were identified on chromosomes 4 and 8 in the RIL population. The RNA-Seq and network analyses of wild lettuce, US96UC23, were performed using the control (distilled water, dH2O) and treatment (10% PEG) datasets. The number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was 4,095. The top 20 gene ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were assessed by enrichment analysis. The consensus network analysis captured 44 modules. Gene networks were constructed for the top 20 hub genes in 10 significant modules from each dataset. This study comprehensively explains QTL, GO terms, KEGG pathways, and gene networks associated with lettuce seed germination under osmotic stress.
Facial attractiveness does not modify the perceived trustworthiness of ethnic minority men
Authors: Hellyer Joshua
Published: November 2024

Immigrants, and particularly immigrant men, are often stereotyped as untrustworthy in European societies. However, little research has examined how stereotypes of characteristics other than ethnicity might impact natives’ perceptions of the trustworthiness of immigrants. Here, I test whether facial attractiveness, a trait associated with a variety of positive stereotypes, might modify ethnic biases in trustworthiness perceptions. I vary facial attractiveness and ethnicity using photo and name stimuli presented in a hypothetical “lost wallet” vignette, in which respondents assess the likelihood of the pictured man returning their lost wallet. Results from an German online panel survey indicate that while attractiveness has a modest positive effect on perceived trustworthiness, the value of attractiveness does not differ between ethnic majority German men and men with a Turkish migration background. Rather, the largest differences in the perceived trustworthiness of Turkish-origin men are found between respondents with inclusionary and exclusionary immigration attitudes, with inclusionary respondents reporting that Turkish-origin vignette persons are more trustworthy than ethnic majority German vignette persons. These results suggest that physical attractiveness does not act as a substantial moderator of ethnic biases in trustworthiness perceptions, but that immigration attitudes are highly relevant.
Cross-instrument optical coherence tomography-angiography (OCTA)-based prediction of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) disease activity using artificial intelligence
Authors: Heinke Anna , Zhang Haochen , Broniarek Krzysztof , Michalska-Małecka Katarzyna , Elsner Wyatt , Galang Carlo Miguel B. , Deussen Daniel N. , Warter Alexandra , Kalaw Fritz , Nagel Ines , Agnihotri Akshay , Mehta Nehal N. , Klaas Julian Elias , Schmelter Valerie , Kozak Igor , Baxter Sally L. , Bartsch Dirk-Uwe , Cheng Lingyun , An Cheolhong , Nguyen Truong , Freeman William R.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the efficacy of predicting age-related macular degeneration (AMD) activity through deep neural networks (DNN) using a cross-instrument training dataset composed of Optical coherence tomography-angiography (OCTA) images from two different manufacturers. A retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed 2D vascular en-face OCTA images from Heidelberg Spectralis (1478 samples: 1102 training, 276 validation, 100 testing) and Optovue Solix (1003 samples: 754 training, 189 validation, 60 testing). OCTA scans were labeled based on clinical diagnoses and adjacent B-scan OCT fluid information, categorizing activity into normal, dry AMD, active wet AMD, and wet AMD in remission. Experiments explored cross-instrument disease classification using separate and combined datasets for training the DNN. Testing involved 100 Heidelberg and 60 Optovue samples. Training on Heidelberg data alone yielded 73% accuracy on Heidelberg images and 60% on Optovue images. Training on Optovue data alone resulted in 34% accuracy on Heidelberg and 85% on Optovue images. Combined training data from both instruments achieved 78% accuracy on Heidelberg and 76% on Optovue test sets. Results indicate that cross-instrument classifier training demonstrates high classification prediction accuracy, making cross-instrument training viable for future clinical applications. This implies that vascular morphology in OCTA can predict disease progression.
When fatigue and cognitive impairment persist- a neurological follow-up-study in patients with Post-COVID syndrome
Authors: Hennemann Ann-Katrin , Timmermeister Melissa , Drick Nora , Pink Isabell , Weissenborn Karin , Dirks Meike
Published: November 2024

Considering the relevance for patients, economics and public health data about the course of the neurological Post-COVID Syndrome (PCS) are urgently needed. In this study 94 PCS patients (73% female, age in median 49 years) were examined in median 9.4 (T1) and for a second time 14 months (T2) after mild to moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mood, sleep quality and health related quality of life (QoL) were evaluated via structured anamnesis and self-report questionnaires; attention, concentration and memory via psychometric tests. 47% of the patients reported an improvement of their symptoms over time, but only 12% full recovery. 4% noticed deterioration and 49% no change. Main disturbances at both time points were fatigue, deficits in concentration and memory. In patients with perceived improvement QoL significantly increased between T1 and T2, although their test performance as well as the fatigue score remained unchanged. In patients with persisting impairment QoL, fatigue scores and psychometric test results did not change significantly. Abnormal psychometric tests were more frequent at both time points in the group without improvement. But, significant fatigue and cognitive impairment persisted for more than 1 year after SARS-CoV-2 infection in both groups.
Early-life gut microbiota assembly patterns are conserved between laboratory and wild mice
Authors: Hanski Eveliina , Raulo Aura , Knowles Sarah C. L.
Published: November 2024

Assembly of the mammalian gut microbiota during early life is known to shape key aspects of organismal development, including immunity, metabolism and behaviour. While house mice (Mus musculus) are the major laboratory model organism for gut microbiota research, their artificial lab-based lifestyle could fundamentally alter ecological processes of microbiota assembly and dynamics, in ways that affect their usefulness as a model system. To examine this, here we directly compared patterns of gut microbiota assembly in house mice from the lab and from the wild, making use of a tractable, individually-marked wild population where we could examine patterns of gut microbiota assembly during early life. Despite lab and wild mice harbouring taxonomically distinct communities, we identify striking similarities in multiple patterns of their gut microbiota assembly. Specifically, age-related changes in both alpha and beta diversity, as well as the abundance of predominant phyla and aerotolerance of the microbiota followed parallel trajectories in both settings. These results suggest some degree of intrinsic programme in gut microbiota assembly that transcends variation in taxonomic profiles, and the genetic and environmental background of the host. They further support the notion that despite their artificial environment, lab mice can provide meaningful insights into natural microbiota ecological dynamics in early life and their interplay with host development.
Electron-cloud alignment dynamics induced by an intense X-ray free-electron laser pulse: a case study on atomic argon
Authors: Budewig Laura , Son Sang-Kil , Santra Robin
Published: November 2024

In an intense X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) pulse, atoms are sequentially ionised by multiple X-ray photons. Photoionisation generally induces an alignment of the electron cloud of the produced atomic ion regarding its orbital-angular-momentum projections. However, how the alignment evolves during sequential X-ray multi-photon ionisation accompanied by decay processes has been unexplored. Here we present a theoretical prediction of the time evolution of the electron-cloud alignment of argon ions induced by XFEL pulses. To this end, we calculate state-resolved ionisation dynamics of atomic argon interacting with an intense linearly polarised X-ray pulse, which generates ions in a wide range of charge states with non-zero orbital- and spin-angular momenta. Employing time-resolved alignment parameters, we predict the existence of non-trivial alignment dynamics during intense XFEL pulses. This implies that even if initially the atomic electron cloud is perfectly spherically symmetric, X-ray multi-photon ionisation can lead to noticeable reshaping of the electron cloud.
More extremely hot days, more heat exposure and fewer cooling options for people of color in Connecticut, U.S.
Authors: Chen Shijuan , Lund Katie , Murphy-Dunning Colleen , Seto Karen C.
Published: November 2024

It is well-documented that people of color in the U.S. are disproportionately exposed to extreme urban heat. However, most studies have focused on large cities for one point in time, and less is known about how heat exposure changes over time in smaller cities. Here, we present a study of the changing nature of urban heat exposure and cooling strategies for ten cities in Connecticut in the U.S. Our results show that people of color experience more heat exposure and fewer adaptation strategies. They experienced higher overall temperatures, more extremely hot days, and larger increases in heat exposure. Also, they have lower air conditioning ownership rates and lower tree cover. Taken together, the results indicate that people of color are not only exposed to higher temperatures but also disproportionately exposed to increasing temperatures over time. With lower heat adaptation capacity, people of color are more vulnerable to increasing urban heat.
Fast-get-faster explains wavier upper-level jet stream under climate change
Authors: Shaw Tiffany A. , Miyawaki Osamu , Chou Hsing-Hung , Blackport Russell
Published: November 2024

Earth’s upper-level jet streams primarily flow in the eastward direction. They often exhibit a north-south component or waviness connected to extreme weather at the surface. Recently the upper-level eastward jet stream was found to exhibit a fast-get-faster response under climate change explained by the impact of the nonlinear Clausius-Clapeyron relation on the latitudinal density contrast. Here we show the fast-get-faster mechanism also applies to the upper-level north-south jet stream wind and the longitudinal density contrast, implying increased waviness under climate change. Arctic Sea ice loss, which has been proposed as a driver of increased waviness, cannot explain the response. It leads to a fast-get-slower waviness response at all vertical levels. We demonstrate the fast-get-faster waviness signal has emerged in reanalysis data in the Southern Hemisphere but not yet in the Northern Hemisphere. The results show the fast-get-faster mechanism explains upper-level waviness changes and highlights a tug of war between upper- and mid-level waviness under climate change.
Cultural contexts differentially shape parents’ loneliness and wellbeing during the empty nest period
Authors: Hartanto Andree , Sim Lester , Lee Davelle , Majeed Nadyanna M. , Yong Jose C.
Published: November 2024

The coming decades will see a substantial increase in the population of older adults, accompanied by significant demographic and family structure changes worldwide. As a result, the empty nest period—the postparental phase in parents’ lives when their children have left home and they are no longer engaged in childrearing—is becoming an increasingly common experience in Western and Asian cultures. The current theoretical review examines the psychological consequences of the empty nest period on loneliness and well-being across cultures, emphasizing the impact of cultural factors on these experiences. By synthesizing research from Western and Asian contexts, we explore two primary theoretical mechanisms—role loss and role strain relief—that shape the postparental phase’s psychological outcomes. Our review reveals that while some parents experience reduced well-being due to role loss, others benefit from role strain relief and increased social engagement. We highlight how cultural differences in familial roles, gender roles, social expectations regarding nest-leaving, and social participation patterns moderate these mechanisms. We propose a comprehensive cultural framework, along with a discussion of culturally sensitive interventions to enhance the well-being of empty nesters globally.
A noninvasive blood glucose detection method with strong time adaptability based on fuzzy operator decision fusion and dynamic spectroscopy characteristics of PPG signals
Authors: Liu Rui , Liu Jieqiang , Huang Zhengwei , Li Qingbo
Published: November 2024

PPG signals are a new means of non-invasive detection of blood glucose, but there are still shortcomings of poor time adaptability and low prediction accuracy of blood glucose quantitative models.
Tunable electronic structure and excellent catalytic properties of transition-metal-doped BeN4 monolayer
Authors: Zhao Wen-Hui , Sun Dong-Yin , Deng Zi-Qiang , Liu Shi-Yao , Cao Lie-Mao , Deng Xiao-Hui , Yin Wen-Jin , Tang Zhen-Kun
Published: November 2024

Fe@BeN4 exhibits good metallic conductivity and excellent OER activity. Biaxial strain and co-doping can further enhance the catalytic activity of Fe@BeN4.
Designing fast-response porous hydrogel actuators with improved toughness
Authors: Jolfaei Maryam Adavoudi , Zhao Yufeng , Spinks Geoffrey M. , Jiang Zhen
Published: November 2024

A design concept is demonstrated to simultaneously generate fast actuation speed, and greatly enhance the hydrogel tensile strength and toughness.
Synthesis, crystal structure, and gas sorption studies of two neutral octahedral {MII24}-cages built from sulfonylcalix[4]arene tetranuclear clusters and triazine linkers
Authors: Khariushin Ivan V. , Bulach Véronique , Ward Jas S. , Rissanen Kari , Solovieva Svetlana E. , Antipin Igor S. , Ovsyannikov Alexander S. , Ferlay Sylvie
Published: November 2024

Two isostructural nanosized coordination cages based on the use of sulfonylcalix[4]arene and triazine derivatives are described thoroughly from a structural point of view, and their sorption properties were measured.
Direct capture of the alanine ghost in alanine-doped triglycine sulfate crystals
Authors: Terasawa Yukana , Shibue Toshimichi , Asahi Toru
Published: November 2024

15N-labelled l-alanine in TGS crystals was directly observed by solid 15N-NMR, with two chemical states of alanine doped into GI being reported and a new crystal structure model proposed.
Solvent-dependent Ln(iii) clusters assembled by immobilization of CO2 in air: zero-field single-molecule magnets and magnetic refrigerant materials
Authors: Liu Cai-Ming , Hao Xiang , Hu Zhao-Bo , Wen He-Rui
Published: November 2024

Fixation of CO2 in air is used to assemble solvent-dependent Ln(iii) cluster single-molecule magnets and magnetic refrigerant materials.
Optimal size of Fe3O4 nanoparticles for different crops depends on the unique nanoscale microstructure of plant leaves under rainy conditions
Authors: Chen Lingyun , Qing Wanru , Li Xiaoxiao , Chen Wenhui , Hao Can , Liu Dunyi , Chen Xinping
Published: November 2024

The height and void size of nanosheets on plant leaves directly affect the size optimization of nanomaterials with best anti-leaching ability and fertilizer efficiency.
Unveiling the influence of oxidation state and heavy atom effects in chalcogen group on boron centered D(X)BNA core: a computational study on RTP versus TADF
Authors: Mahaan Ramalingam , Panneerselvam Murugesan , Costa Luciano T. , Bosco Aruljothy John
Published: November 2024

The effects of heavy atoms and oxidation states in chalcogen groups on D(X)BNA cores, combined with substitutions of weak and strong donors, led to the identification of potential TADF and RTP molecules among the 14 molecules.
Reduction-immobilizing strategy of polymer-embedded sub-2 nm Cu nanoparticles with uniform size and distribution responsible for robust catalytic reactions
Authors: Putri Rosy Amalia Kurnia , Al Zoubi Wail , Assfour Bassem , Allaf Abdul Wahab , Sudiyarmanto  , Ko Young Gun
Published: November 2024

As a contribution to the field of hybrid materials and catalysis, this work is expected to stimulate further research, offering strategic advantages such as high performance, easy recovery, and reusability.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological applications of zinc(ii) complexes of the methylthiosalicylate ligand
Authors: Pratap Rajesh , Kumari Soni , Chaturvedi Nishtha , Mishra Rajnikant , Bhattacharya Subrato
Published: November 2024

A series of Zn(ii) complexes were prepared and characterized structurally. On the basis of protein and DNA binding studies the complexes were found to be anticancer agents.
Carbon-based nanocarriers for plant growth promotion: fuelling when needed
Authors: Ashfaq Mohammad , Gupta Govind , Verma Nishith
Published: November 2024

CB-NMs, have revolutionized the agricultural sector in various ways including the on-demand supply of essential nutrients, biomolecules, and growth factors to plants.
Pd-catalyzed ortho-/meta-C–H-annulation of biphenyl amines with enynes through non-rollover cyclometallation
Authors: Suri Babu Undamatla , Naveen Kumar Muniganti , Mahesh Shivunapuram , Nanubolu Jagadeesh Babu , Sridhar Reddy Maddi
Published: November 2024

A Pd-catalyzed, regio- and diastereoselective cascade reaction of biphenyl amines with 1,6-enynes via non-rollover cyclometallation has been described for the synthesis of benzoisoindolinone derivatives.
Development of polymeric aptamer probes for in vivo continuous precision cancer targeting
Authors: Huang Silin , He Yu-Ting , Zhang Xiao-Jing , Wang Xue-Qiang , Guo Qiang
Published: November 2024

The application of aptamers in biomedicine faces a significant challenge due to rapid degradation by nucleases. This study presents an innovative strategy for engineering polymeric aptamer probes with enhanced stability against degradation, improved binding affinity and internalization capability.
Transition-metal-free skeletal editing of benzoisothiazol-3-ones to 2,3-dihydrobenzothiazin-4-ones via single-carbon insertion
Authors: Yang Ke , Li Qin , Luo Yanqi , Yuan Dan , Qi Chunjian , Li Zhengyi , Li Bijin , Sun Xiaoqiang
Published: November 2024

Transition-metal-free ring expansion of benzoisothiazol-3-ones has been established to construct various 2,3-dihydrobenzothiazin-4-ones via single-carbon insertion.
Selective separation of Li, Ni, Co and Mn from model spent Li ion battery cathode materials by dry processing using the combination of chlorination and oxidation
Authors: Mochizuki Yuuki , Tsubouchi Naoto
Published: November 2024

The combination of chlorination and oxidation treatment of model spent LIB cathode materials.
Cationic Al oxo-hydroxide clusters: syntheses, molecular structures, and functional applications
Authors: Ogiwara Naoki , Zhou Wei , Uchida Sayaka
Published: November 2024

Al oxo-hydroxide clusters are formed through the hydrolysis of Al3+-containing solutions, exhibiting a diversity of sizes and shapes. The assembly of these clusters demonstrates functional applications, such as adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis.
Solar water oxidation reaction promoted by a dopant combination on hematite photoanode
Authors: Dotta Mariana A. , Pires Fabio A. , Morishita Gustavo M. , Costa Carlos A. R. , Bettini Jefferson , Souza Flavio L.
Published: November 2024

Rationally designing modified hematite photoanodes by tailoring synergistic dopant combinations via the polymeric precursor method is key to enhancing solar water oxidation performance.
Plasmonic Mo-doped HNb3O8 nanosheets with tunable energy band structures for photothermal catalytic H2 evolution in the full solar spectrum
Authors: Chen Junli , Jin Xinyi , Yang Xinli , Deng Lei , Zhang Zhiqiang , Han Lifeng , Gong Feilong , Zhang Yonghui
Published: November 2024

Ultrathin Mo-HNb3O8 nanosheets were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal process.
Extracellular matrix mimetic supramolecular hydrogels reinforced with covalent crosslinked mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Zengin Aygül , Hafeez Shahzad , Habibovic Pamela , Baker Matthew , van Rijt Sabine
Published: November 2024

Here we present a promising strategy to create hybrid, biomimetic supramolecular injectable hydrogels reinforced covalent crosslinked mesoporous silica nanoparticles for tissue engineering applications.
Exchange of free and capsule conjugated cyanine dyes between cells
Authors: Kozyreva Zhanna V. , Demina Polina A. , Gusliakova Olga I. , Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Sindeeva Olga A.
Published: November 2024

Cells readily exchange free cyanine dyes when their membranes are in close contact. Photoconvertible capsules based on cyanine dyes are internalized into the cytoplasm with a low degree of exchange, allowing individual cell labeling and tracking.
Emergence of heavy-fermion behavior and distorted square nets in partially vacancy-ordered Y4FexGe8 (1.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.5)
Authors: Zhao Hengdi , Zhou Xiuquan , Usman Mohammad , Chapai Ramakanta , Yu Lei , Wen Jianguo , Park Hyowon , Douvalis Alexios P. , Meza Patricia E. , Chen Yu-Sheng , Welp Ulrich , Rosenkranz Stephan , Chung Duck Young , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: November 2024

Heavy fermion characteristics and potential superconductivity are observed in the partially vacancy-ordered Y4FexGe8.
Enhanced electrical properties of lead-free sodium potassium niobate piezoelectric ceramics prepared via cold sintering assisted sintering
Authors: Huang Yao , Song Xinyue , Sun Renbing , Jiang Hai , Du Peng , Luo Laihui
Published: November 2024

The CSAS method can increase the density of the ceramics and reduce the volatilization of the A-site elements, thus changing the phase structure of the ceramics and making them high piezoelectric properties.
Design of a self-powered 2D Te/PtSe2 heterojunction for room-temperature NIR detection
Authors: Xia Fengtian , Wang Dongbo , He Wen , Chen Xiangqun , Zhao Chenchen , Zhang Bingke , Liu Donghao , Liu Sihang , Pan Jingwen , Jiao Shujie , Fang Dan , Fang Xuan , Liu Lihua , Zhao Liancheng
Published: November 2024

Narrow bandgap Te films were obtained and used as the basis for the fabrication of Te/PtSe2 heterojunction infrared detectors with self-driven operation under zero bias and excellent infrared detection performance.