bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Climatology of Low‐ and Mid‐Latitude F‐Region Ionospheric Currents Using the Swarm Constellation
Authors: Fillion M. , Hulot G. , Alken P. , Chulliat A.
Published: April 2023

We present a new empirical model of quiet‐time F‐region ionospheric currents and associated magnetic fields. This model is designed to accurately represent these currents and fields at low and mid latitudes. For each individual Swarm satellite, the preprocessed data is represented as a non‐potential toroidal magnetic field using the Mie representation in a thin‐shell and spherical harmonic expansions. This approach allows to fully separate spatial and climatological variations as well as to assess the robustness of the model with respect to both measurement errors and data sampling with local time. The obtained model describes the toroidal magnetic fields and the associated radial poloidal electric currents at two distinct altitudes in the ionosphere F region. Clear signatures of low‐ and mid‐latitude interhemispheric field‐aligned currents (IHFACs) are identified. The model reproduces well‐known characteristics of the climatology of IHFACs and provides new insights, for example, on the average daily variations of IHFACs during winter in the Northern Hemisphere. It also well recovers the variations of IHFACs with longitude. The potential driving mechanisms of these variations, such as longitudinal variations of the main field and modulation by upward propagating atmospheric tides, are discussed. The new model can be used to analyze the relationship between atmospheric tides and IHFACs. It can also be used to investigate the connection between the magnetic fields and electric currents from the ionospheric E and F regions in order to improve the separation of these fields as well as our understanding of the overall ionospheric electric current system.
Ultra-low threshold continuous-wave quantum dot mini-BIC lasers
Authors: Zhong Hancheng , Yu Ying , Zheng Ziyang , Ding Zhengqing , Zhao Xuebo , Yang Jiawei , Wei Yuming , Chen Yingxin , Yu Siyuan
Published: April 2023

Highly compact lasers with ultra-low threshold and single-mode continuous wave (CW) operation have been a long sought-after component for photonic integrated circuits (PICs). Photonic bound states in the continuum (BICs), due to their excellent ability of trapping light and enhancing light-matter interaction, have been investigated in lasing configurations combining various BIC cavities and optical gain materials. However, the realization of BIC laser with a highly compact size and an ultra-low CW threshold has remained elusive. We demonstrate room temperature CW BIC lasers in the 1310 nm O-band wavelength range, by fabricating a miniaturized BIC cavity in an InAs/GaAs epitaxial quantum dot (QD) gain membrane. By enabling effective trapping of both light and carriers in all three dimensions, ultra-low threshold of 12 μW (0.052 kW cm−2) is achieved at room temperature. Single-mode lasing is also realized in cavities as small as only 5 × 5 unit cells (~2.5 × 2.5 μm2 cavity size) with a mode volume of 1.16(λ/n)3. The maximum operation temperature reaches 70 °C with a characteristic temperature of T0 ~93.9 K. With its advantages in terms of a small footprint, ultra-low power consumption, and adaptability for integration, the mini-BIC lasers offer a perspective light source for future PICs aimed at high-capacity optical communications, sensing and quantum information.
A systematic review of neuroimaging epigenetic research: calling for an increased focus on development
Authors: Walton Esther , Baltramonaityte Vilte , Calhoun Vince , Heijmans Bastiaan T. , Thompson Paul M. , Cecil Charlotte A. M.
Published: April 2023

Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation (DNAm), have gained increasing attention as potential biomarkers and mechanisms underlying risk for neurodevelopmental, psychiatric and other brain-based disorders. Yet, surprisingly little is known about the extent to which DNAm is linked to individual differences in the brain itself, and how these associations may unfold across development – a time of life when many of these disorders emerge. Here, we systematically review evidence from the nascent field of Neuroimaging Epigenetics, combining structural or functional neuroimaging measures with DNAm, and the extent to which the developmental period (birth to adolescence) is represented in these studies. We identified 111 articles published between 2011–2021, out of which only a minority (21%) included samples under 18 years of age. Most studies were cross-sectional (85%), employed a candidate-gene approach (67%), and examined DNAm-brain associations in the context of health and behavioral outcomes (75%). Nearly half incorporated genetic data, and a fourth investigated environmental influences. Overall, studies support a link between peripheral DNAm and brain imaging measures, but there is little consistency in specific findings and it remains unclear whether DNAm markers present a cause, correlate or consequence of brain alterations. Overall, there is large heterogeneity in sample characteristics, peripheral tissue and brain outcome examined as well as the methods used. Sample sizes were generally low to moderate (median nall = 98, ndevelopmental = 80), and attempts at replication or meta-analysis were rare. Based on the strengths and weaknesses of existing studies, we propose three recommendations on how advance the field of Neuroimaging Epigenetics. We advocate for: (1) a greater focus on developmentally oriented research (i.e. pre-birth to adolescence); (2) the analysis of large, prospective, pediatric cohorts with repeated measures of DNAm and imaging to assess directionality; and (3) collaborative, interdisciplinary science to identify robust signals, triangulate findings and enhance translational potential.
The quality and content of websites in the UK advertising aligner therapy: are standards being met?
Authors: Alsaqabi Farah , Madadian Matin Ali , Pandis Nikolaos , Cobourne Martyn T. , Seehra Jadbinder
Published: April 2023

Aims To evaluate the quality of information and compliance with General Dental Council (GDC) ethical advertising guidelines for English-language orthodontic websites providing orthodontic treatment with aligners in the United Kingdom (UK).

Materials and methods The term 'orthodontic aligners or braces' was entered into the Google online search engine. The first 100 English language orthodontic websites (practice or company) were pooled. Both the quality (DISCERN instrument) and compliance with GDC ethical advertising guidelines were assessed. Frequency distributions and the overall summative DISCERN score for each website were calculated.

Results The overall mean DISCERN score was 42.9 (SD = 9.4). The quality of information was only rated as good-excellent for 16% of websites and only 11% of websites showed full compliance with GDC guidelines on ethical advertising. A link to the GDC/authority website (75%), the date when the website was last updated (72%), and the practice complaints policy (66%) were not commonly provided. The country of qualification, a statement of whether practices provide NHS or private treatment or a combination of both, and the date when the website was last updated, were significant predictors for the overall quality based on DISCERN score.

Conclusions The quality of information provided on websites providing aligner therapy and their compliance with GDC guidelines on ethical advertising was suboptimal. An improvement in both areas is required.
Sirtuin 6 is a key contributor to gender differences in acute kidney injury
Authors: Miao Jinhua , Huang Jiewu , Liang Ye , Zhang Yunfang , Li Jiemei , Meng Ping , Shen Weiwei , Li Xiaolong , Wu Qinyu , Wang Xiaoxu , Niu Hongxin , Tang Ying , Zhou Shan , Zhou Lili
Published: April 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is rapidly increasing nowadays and at a high risk to progress into chronic kidney disease (CKD). Of note, men are more susceptive to AKI, suggesting gender differences in AKI patients. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. To test it, we adopted two experimental models of AKI, including ischemia/reperfusion injury and rhabdomyolysis, which were constructed in age-matched male and female mice. We found severe damages of tubular apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and loss of renal function showing in male mice, while female mice only had very mild injury. We further tested the expression of Sirtuins, and found that female mice could preserve more Sirtuin members’ expression in case of kidney damage. Among Sirtuin family, Sirtuin 6 was maximally preserved in injured kidney in female mice, suggesting its important role involved in the gender differences of AKI pathogenesis. We then found that knockdown of androgen receptor (AR) attenuated tubular damage, mitochondrial dysfunction and retarded the loss of renal function. Overexpression of Sirtuin 6 also showed similar results. Furthermore, in cultured tubular cells, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) decreased Sirtuin 6 expression and exacerbated cell apoptosis. Ectopic expression of Sirtuin 6 sufficiently inhibited DHT-induced cell apoptosis. Mechanically, we found AR inhibited Sirtuin 6, leading to the repression of binding of Sirtuin 6 with PGC-1α. This resulted in acetylation of PGC-1α and inhibition of its activity, further triggered the loss of mitochondrial homeostasis. Our results provided new insights to the underlying mechanisms of gender differences in AKI, suggesting Sirtuin 6 maybe a new therapeutic target for preventing AKI in male patients.
The asymmetrical ESR1 signaling in muscle progenitor cells determines the progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Shao Xiexiang , Fu Xin , Yang Jingfan , Sui Wenyuan , Li Sheng , Yang Wenjun , Lin Xingzuan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Jia Minzhi , Liu Huan , Liu Wei , Han Lili , Yu Yang , Deng Yaolong , Zhang Tianyuan , Yang Junlin , Hu Ping
Published: April 2023

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a common pediatric skeletal disease highly occurred in females. The pathogenesis of AIS has not been fully elucidated. Here, we reveal that ESR1 (Estrogen Receptor 1) expression declines in muscle stem/progenitor cells at the concave side of AIS patients. Furthermore, ESR1 is required for muscle stem/progenitor cell differentiation and disrupted ESR1 signaling leads to differentiation defects. The imbalance of ESR1 signaling in the para-spinal muscles induces scoliosis in mice, while reactivation of ESR1 signaling at the concave side by an FDA approved drug Raloxifene alleviates the curve progression. This work reveals that the asymmetric inactivation of ESR1 signaling is one of the causes of AIS. Reactivation of ESR1 signaling in para-spinal muscle by Raloxifene at the concave side could be a new strategy to treat AIS.
Two quasi-interfacial p-n junctions observed by a dual-irradiation system in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Omer Mohamed I. , Ye Tao , Li Xianqiang , Ma Shaoyang , Wu Dan , Wei Lei , Tang Xiaohong , Ramakrishna Seeram , Zhu Qiang , Xiong Shanxing , Xu Jianwei , Vijila Chellappan , Wang Xizu
Published: April 2023

In general, perovskite solar cells (PSC) with a sensitized or thin-film architecture absorb light from a single-side illumination, and carrier separation and transport only take place inside the active layer of the perovskite film. Herein, we demonstrated a dual-irradiation PSC system in which light passes through both the fluorinated tin oxide (FTO) side and the Au electrode side, resulting in much faster interfacial charge carrier extraction and transportation than that in a single-irradiation system, in which light passes through from either the FTO or semitransparent Au electrode side. This dual-irradiation PSC system with a configuration of FTO/Cl-TiO2/Mp-TiO2/mixed perovskite/spiro-OMeTAD/Au/ITO can form two quasi-interfacial p-n junctions, which occur separately at the interfaces of TiO2/perovskite and perovskite/spiro-OMeTAD. When the PSC device was illuminated simultaneously from both the FTO and Au/ITO sides, the PSC achieved a total power conversion efficiency (PCE) as high as 20.1% under high light intensity (1.4 sun), which is higher than PCE (18.4%) of a single-irradiation system. The time of flight (TOF) photoconductivity, small perturbation transient photovoltaic (TPV), finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) optical simulations, and dual illumination-side-dependent impedance spectroscopy (ISD-IS) were used to authenticate the presence of two quasi-interfacial p-n junctions in the PSC, creating more charge carriers than only one quasi p-n junction, and thus leading to a fast recombination process.
Mechanistic origins of corrosion protection of aluminum alloys by graphene/polyetherimide nanocomposite coatings
Authors: Sill Tiffany E. , Zaheer Wasif , Valdes Caroline G. , Balcorta Victor H. , Douglas Lacey , Fletcher Torrick , Steiger Sarah , Spinner Neil S. , Verkhoturov Stanislav V. , Kalyanaraman Viswanathan , Verghese Nikhil , Pharr Matt , Sheth Kapil , Davidson Rachel D. , Banerjee Sarbajit
Published: April 2023

Light-weighting vehicular components through adoption of light-metal structural alloys holds promise for reducing the fuel consumption of internal combustion engine vehicles and increasing the range of battery electric vehicles. However, the alloyed microstructure and surface precipitates of aluminum alloys render these materials susceptible to corrosion under modest excursions from neutral pH. Traditional chromium-based anodic passivation layers are subject to increasingly stringent environmental regulations, whereas options for sacrificial cathodic films are sparse for electropositive metals. While hybrid nanocomposite coatings have shown initial promise, mechanistic underpinnings remain poorly understood. Here, a fully imidized polyetherimide (PEI) resin is utilized as the continuous phase with inclusion of unfunctionalized exfoliated graphite (UFG). A comprehensive investigation of the mechanisms of corrosion protection reveals key fundamental design principles underpinning corrosion inhibition. First, strong interfacial adhesion, which for PEI is facilitated by binding of imide carbonyl moieties to Lewis acidic sites on Al surfaces. Second, the miscibility of ion-impervious nanoscopic UFG fillers and stabilization of a substantial interphase region at UFG/PEI boundaries that result in minimizing the free volume at the filler/polymer interface. Finally, extended tortuosity of ion diffusion pathways imbued by the below-percolation-threshold 2D fillers. These three design principles help govern and modulate ion transport from electrolyte/coating interfaces to the coating/metal interface and are crucial for the extended preservation of barrier properties. The results suggest an approach to systematically activate multiple modes of corrosion inhibition through rational design of hybrid nanocomposite coatings across hard-to-abate sectors where light metal alloys are likely to play an increasingly prominent role.
Quantum error correction with gauge symmetries
Authors: Rajput Abhishek , Roggero Alessandro , Wiebe Nathan
Published: April 2023

Quantum simulations of lattice gauge theories (LGTs) are often formulated on an enlarged Hilbert space containing both physical and unphysical sectors in order to retain a local Hamiltonian. We provide simple fault-tolerant procedures that exploit such redundancy by combining a phase flip error correction code with the Gauss’ law constraint to correct one-qubit errors for a $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

Z

2

or truncated U(1) LGT in 1+1 and 2+1 dimensions with a link flux cutoff of 1. Unlike existing work on detecting violations of Gauss’ law, our circuits are fault tolerant and the overall error correction scheme outperforms a naïve application of the [5, 1, 3] code. The constructions outlined can be extended to LGT systems with larger cutoffs and may be of use in understanding how to hybridize error correction and quantum simulation for LGTs in higher space-time dimensions and with different symmetry groups.
Optimal global spending for group A Streptococcus vaccine research and development
Authors: Tortorice Daniel , Ferranna Maddalena , Bloom David E.
Published: April 2023

Group A Streptococcus (Strep A) leads to 600,000 deaths and 600 million cases of pharyngitis annually. Although long a promising target for vaccine development, how much funding should be allocated to develop a Strep A vaccine is unclear. We aim to calculate the optimal amount of global spending for Strep A vaccine development, the resulting benefits, and the social rate of return on this spending. We develop a model of optimal spending, from a global societal perspective, on research and development (R&D) for vaccines and treatments. The model takes as inputs total harm from the disease, the probability an R&D project succeeds, the cost of a project, and the fraction of total harm a success alleviates. Based on these inputs the model outputs an optimal amount of spending and a rate of return. We calibrate the model for Strep A. Optimal spending is estimated to be 2020 USD33 billion. This spending leads to 2020 USD1.63 trillion in benefits and a real return of 22.3% per year for thirty years. Sensitivity shows an optimal spending range of 15.9 billion to 58.5 billion, a benefits range of 1.6 trillion to 37.9 trillion, and a return range of 18.0–48.2%. Investment in a Strep A vaccine could create enormous benefits for comparatively little cost. It represents one of the highest return uses of public spending. Policy can promote Strep A vaccine development through direct funding of projects and by promoting financial mechanisms that allow the private sector to diversify its R&D investment.
Prevalence of comorbidities and their impact on survival among older adults with the five most common cancers in Taiwan: a population study
Authors: Chien Li-Hsin , Tseng Tzu-Jui , Chen Tzu-Yu , Chen Chung-Hsing , Chen Chia-Yu , Jiang Hsin-Fang , Tsai Fang-Yu , Ku Hsiu-Ying , Jiang Shih Sheng , Hsiung Chao A. , Liu Tsang-Wu , Chang I-Shou
Published: April 2023

Because of the cancer incidence increase and population aging in Taiwan, we aimed to assess the cancer prevalence, to summarize the comorbidities of older patients with the five most common cancers (i.e., breast, colorectal, liver, lung, and oral), and to develop a Taiwan cancer comorbidity index (TCCI) for studying their actual prognosis. The linkage of the Taiwan Cancer Registry, Cause of Death Database, and National Health Insurance Research Database was used. We followed the standard statistical learning steps to obtain a survival model with good discriminatory accuracy in predicting death due to noncancer causes, from which we obtained the TCCI and defined comorbidity levels. We reported the actual prognosis by age, stage, and comorbidity level. In Taiwan, cancer prevalence nearly doubled in 2004–2014, and comorbidities were common among older patients. Stage was the major predictor of patients' actual prognoses. For localized and regional breast, colorectal, and oral cancers, comorbidities correlated with noncancer-related deaths. Compared with the US, the chances of dying from comorbidities in Taiwan were lower and the chances of dying from cancer were higher for breast, colorectal, and male lung cancers. These actual prognoses could help clinicians and patients in treatment decision-making and help policymakers in resource planning.
Post-hoc analysis of the safety and efficacy of isavuconazole in older patients with invasive fungal disease from the VITAL and SECURE studies
Authors: Hamed Kamal , Engelhardt Marc , Kovanda Laura L. , Huang Jin Ju , Yan Jean , Aram Jalal A.
Published: April 2023

Isavuconazole is a triazole with broad-spectrum antifungal activity. In this post-hoc analysis of two prospective clinical trials (VITAL and SECURE), the safety and efficacy of isavuconazole in patients aged ≥ 65 years with invasive fungal diseases were evaluated. Patients were divided into two subgroups (≥ 65 and < 65 years). Adverse events (AEs); all-cause mortality; and overall, clinical, mycological, and radiological response were assessed. A total of 155 patients ≥ 65 years were enrolled in both trials. Most patients reported AEs. In the isavuconazole arm of both studies, serious AEs (SAEs) were greater in patients ≥ 65 versus < 65 years: 76.7% versus 56.9% (VITAL); 61.9% versus 49.0% (SECURE). In SECURE, SAE rates were similar in the ≥ 65 years subgroup of both treatment arms (61.9% vs 58.1%), while in the < 65 years subgroup the SAE rate was lower in the isavuconazole arm (49.0% vs 57.4%). In VITAL, all-cause mortality through day 42 (30.0% vs 13.8%) was higher, and overall response at end of treatment (27.6% vs 46.8%) was lower in patients ≥ 65 years versus < 65 years. In SECURE, all-cause mortality was similar between both subgroups, and isavuconazole (20.6% vs 17.9%) and voriconazole (22.6% vs 19.4%) treatment arms. The overall response was lower in the ≥ 65 years than the < 65 years subgroup in the isavuconazole (23.7% vs 39.0%) and voriconazole (32.0% vs 37.5%) arms. The safety and efficacy of isavuconazole were better in patients < 65 versus ≥ 65 years, and the safety profile was more favorable than that of voriconazole in both subgroups.

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT00634049 and NCT00412893.
Syrians' awareness of cardiovascular disease risk factors and warning indicators: a descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Swed Sarya , Alibrahim Hidar , Bohsas Haidara , Hafez Wael , Rais Mohammed Amir , Shoib Sheikh , Albazee Ebraheem , Elsayed Mohamed E. G. , Sawaf Bisher , Farwati Amr , Seijari Mohammed Najdat , Battikh Naim , Shaheen Nour , Ibrahem Nafeth , Alsaleh Ahmad , Lee Ka Yiu , Rakab Amine
Published: April 2023

The awareness of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) contributes to the complications and fatality rates from these diseases among individuals; however, no previous study in Syria was conducted on this topic; thus, this study aims to assess Syrians' awareness of CVDs warning symptoms and risk factors. This online cross-sectional study was performed in Syria between the 1st and 25th of August 2022. The inclusion criteria for the sample were citizens of Syria over 18 who currently reside in Syria. The questionnaire included open- and closed-ended questions to assess the awareness of CVDs. A total of 1201 participants enrolled in the study with a response rate of 97.2%; more than half of the participants (61.4%) were aged 18–24. The most recognizable risk factors and warning signs when asking close-ended and open-ended questions were smoking (95.2%, 37.1%) and chest pain (87.8%, 24.8%), respectively. Overall knowledge scores for risk factors and warning signs were (61.5%). Regarding knowledge score of CVDs risk factors and warning signs, participants aged 45–54 scored higher than other age groups, and respondents with a university education level had a higher score than other educational levels (15.7 ± 0.3), (14.5 ± 0.1), respectively. Participants aged 45–54 have a higher probability of good knowledge of CVDs risk factors and warning signs than participants aged 18–24 (OR = 4.8, P value < 0.001), while participants living in the countryside were less likely to have good knowledge of CVDs risk factors and warning signs than city residents (OR = 0.6, P value < 0.05). According to our results, there is inadequate knowledge of the risk factors and warning signs of CVDs. Consequently, there is a greater need to raise CVD awareness and learning initiatives on the disease's risk factors and symptoms.
Evaluation of volatile compound profiles and sensory properties of dark and pale beers fermented by different strains of brewing yeast
Authors: Paszkot Justyna , Gasiński Alan , Kawa-Rygielska Joanna
Published: April 2023

To evaluate the differences in the volatile compound profile of dark and pale beers fermented by different strains of brewer's yeast, gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis of eight beers was carried out. The prevalent group of compounds in all the beers analysed were alcohols (56.41–72.17%), followed by esters (14.58–20.82%), aldehydes (8.35–20.52%), terpenes and terpenoids (1.22–6.57%) and ketones (0.42–1.00%). The dominant higher alcohols were 2-methylpropan-1-ol, 3-methylbutanol, phenethyl alcohol, among aldehydes furfural, decanal, nonanal, and among esters ethyl acetate, phenylethyl acetate and isoamyl acetate. Beers fermented by the top-fermenting yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. diastaticus had the highest volatile content. The addition of dark malt in wort production process had no effect on the total content of volatiles, but for some beers it caused changes in the total content of esters, terpenes and terpenoids. Variations in the total volatile content between beers fermented by different yeast strains are mainly due to esters and alcohols identified. Sensory analysis of beers allowed us to identify the characteristics affected by the addition of dark speciality malts in the production of wort and yeast strains used in the fermentation process.
A novel medical image segmentation approach by using multi-branch segmentation network based on local and global information synchronous learning
Authors: Jin Shangzhu , Yu Sheng , Peng Jun , Wang Hongyi , Zhao Yan
Published: April 2023

In recent years, there have been several solutions to medical image segmentation, such as U-shaped structure, transformer-based network, and multi-scale feature learning method. However, their network parameters and real-time performance are often neglected and cannot segment boundary regions well. The main reason is that such networks have deep encoders, a large number of channels, and excessive attention to local information rather than global information, which is crucial to the accuracy of image segmentation. Therefore, we propose a novel multi-branch medical image segmentation network MBSNet. We first design two branches using a parallel residual mixer (PRM) module and dilate convolution block to capture the local and global information of the image. At the same time, a SE-Block and a new spatial attention module enhance the output features. Considering the different output features of the two branches, we adopt a cross-fusion method to effectively combine and complement the features between different layers. MBSNet was tested on five datasets ISIC2018, Kvasir, BUSI, COVID-19, and LGG. The combined results show that MBSNet is lighter, faster, and more accurate. Specifically, for a $$320 \times 320$$

320
×
320

input, MBSNet’s FLOPs is 10.68G, with an F1-Score of $$85.29\%$$

85.29
%

on the Kvasir test dataset, well above $$78.73\%$$

78.73
%

for UNet++ with FLOPs of 216.55G. We also use the multi-criteria decision making method TOPSIS based on F1-Score, IOU and Geometric-Mean (G-mean) for overall analysis. The proposed MBSNet model performs better than other competitive methods. Code is available at https://github.com/YuLionel/MBSNet.
An unbiased AAV-STARR-seq screen revealing the enhancer activity map of genomic regions in the mouse brain in vivo
Authors: Chan Ya-Chien , Kienle Eike , Oti Martin , Di Liddo Antonella , Mendez-Lago Maria , Aschauer Dominik F. , Peter Manuel , Pagani Michaela , Arnold Cosmas , Vonderheit Andreas , Schön Christian , Kreuz Sebastian , Stark Alexander , Rumpel Simon
Published: April 2023

Enhancers are important cis-regulatory elements controlling cell-type specific expression patterns of genes. Furthermore, combinations of enhancers and minimal promoters are utilized to construct small, artificial promoters for gene delivery vectors. Large-scale functional screening methodology to construct genomic maps of enhancer activities has been successfully established in cultured cell lines, however, not yet applied to terminally differentiated cells and tissues in a living animal. Here, we transposed the Self-Transcribing Active Regulatory Region Sequencing (STARR-seq) technique to the mouse brain using adeno-associated-viruses (AAV) for the delivery of a highly complex screening library tiling entire genomic regions and covering in total 3 Mb of the mouse genome. We identified 483 sequences with enhancer activity, including sequences that were not predicted by DNA accessibility or histone marks. Characterizing the expression patterns of fluorescent reporters controlled by nine candidate sequences, we observed differential expression patterns also in sparse cell types. Together, our study provides an entry point for the unbiased study of enhancer activities in organisms during health and disease.
Rituximab treatment of adults with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Wang Liuwei , Yu Lu , Wang Yulin , Guo Yanhong , Zhai Zihan , Tang Lin
Published: April 2023

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) in the treatment of primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in adults. The clinical data of patients with primary FSGS who received RTX treatment in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University were analyzed retrospectively. The selected patients received RTX twice or four times, with a single dose of 375 mg/m2, and the interval between two times of administration of RTX was 2–4 weeks. The treatment target is to achieve the clearance of B cells (peripheral blood B cell count < 5/μl). The primary outcome measures were remission and recurrence of renal disease, and the secondary outcome measures were adverse events and renal outcomes. A total of 14 FSGS patients were included, including 12 males, 9 with glucocorticoid-dependent or frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome, and 3 with newly diagnosed nephrotic syndrome. After RTX treatment, 7 patients with glucocorticoid-dependent/recurrent nephrotic syndrome were completely relieved. At 6 months of follow-up, glucocorticoids were discontinued in all patients except 1 patient. The other 5 patients achieved partial remission (PR), of which 1 patient relapsed after PR, and 1 initial patient achieved complete remission. One patient progressed to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) after 4 months of follow-up. RTX in the treatment of adult glucocorticoid-dependent/relapsing FSGS can reduce the risk of recurrence and help to decline or discontinue the use of glucocorticoid and immunosuppressants.
Critically endangered Rice’s whales (Balaenoptera ricei) selectively feed on high-quality prey in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Kiszka Jeremy J. , Caputo Michelle , Vollenweider Johanna , Heithaus Michael R. , Aichinger Dias Laura , Garrison Lance P.
Published: April 2023

Determining the drivers of prey selection in marine predators is critical when investigating ecosystem structure and function. The newly recognized Rice’s whale (Balaenoptera ricei) is one of the most critically endangered large whales in the world and endemic to the industrialized Gulf of Mexico. Here, we investigated the drivers of resource selection by Rice’s whales in relation to prey availability and energy density. Bayesian stable isotope (δ13C, δ15N) mixing models suggest that Rice’s whales feed primarily on a schooling fish, Ariomma bondi (66.8% relative contribution). Prey selection using the Chesson’s index revealed that active prey selection was found to be positive for three out of the four potential prey identified in the mixing model. A low degree of overlap between prey availability and diet inferred from the mixing model (Pianka Index: 0.333) suggests that prey abundance is not the primary driver of prey selection. Energy density data suggest that prey selection may be primarily driven by the energy content. Results from this study indicate that Rice’s whales are selective predators consuming schooling prey with the highest energy content. Environmental changes in the region have the potential to influence prey species that would make them less available to Rice’s whales.
Characteristics of online user-generated text predict the emotional intelligence of individuals
Authors: Dover Yaniv , Amichai-Hamburger Yair
Published: April 2023

Emotional intelligence is a well-established indicator of performance and the ability to maintain successful social relationships. Moreover, it is potentially an important factor in social dynamics occurring on large digital platforms, e.g., opinion polarization, social conflict, and social influence. Users publicly exchange enormous amounts of text on digital platforms, which can potentially be used to extract real-life insights. Yet, currently, the prevalent approach to measuring emotional intelligence uses mainly self-report surveys and tasks—considerably limiting the feasibility of real-life large-scale studies. We analyze the online public texts of users, who also completed emotional intelligence measures, to find that characteristics of online public texts can be used to predict emotional intelligence at a level like that of commonly used psychometric indicators (e.g., SATs) to predict real-life outcomes. For example, we find that high emotional intelligence individuals consistently use more positive-affect language, less negative-affect language and use more social-oriented language than low emotional intelligence individuals. Our findings provide insight into the role of personality on digital platforms and open the possibility of studying emotional intelligence in large and diverse real-life data. To support the use of online public text as a tool to research emotional intelligence, we provide an anonymized version of the data.
Low-grade glioma risk SNP rs11706832 is associated with type I interferon response pathway genes in cell lines
Authors: Rosenbaum Adam , Dahlin Anna M. , Andersson Ulrika , Björkblom Benny , Wu Wendy Yi-Ying , Hedman Håkan , Wibom Carl , Melin Beatrice
Published: April 2023

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have contributed to our understanding of glioma susceptibility. To date, 25 risk loci for development of any of the glioma subtypes are known. However, GWAS studies reveal little about the molecular processes that lead to increased risk, especially for non-coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP). A particular SNP in intron 2 of LRIG1, rs11706832, has been shown to increase the susceptibility for IDH1 mutated low-grade gliomas (LGG). Leucine-rich repeats and immunoglobulin-like domains protein 1 (LRIG1) is important in cancer development as it negatively regulates the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR); however, the mechanism responsible for this particular risk SNP and its potential effect on LRIG1 are not known. Using CRISPR-CAS9, we edited rs11706832 in HEK293T cells. Four HEK293T clones with the risk allele were compared to four clones with the non-risk allele for LRIG1 and SLC25A26 gene expression using RT-qPCR, for global gene expression using RNA-seq, and for metabolites using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The experiment did not reveal any significant effect of the SNP on the expression levels or splicing patterns of LRIG1 or SLC25A26. The global gene expression analysis revealed that the risk allele C was associated with upregulation of several mitochondrial genes. Gene enrichment analysis of 74 differentially expressed genes in the genome revealed a significant enrichment of type I interferon response genes, where many genes were downregulated for the risk allele C. Gene expression data of IDH1 mutated LGGs from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) revealed a similar under expression of type I interferon genes associated with the risk allele. This study found the expression levels and splicing patterns of LRIG1 and SLC25A26 were not affected by the SNP in HEK293T cells. However, the risk allele was associated with a downregulation of genes involved in the innate immune response both in the HEK293T cells and in the LGG data from TCGA.
Improving Josephson junction reproducibility for superconducting quantum circuits: junction area fluctuation
Authors: Pishchimova Anastasiya A. , Smirnov Nikita S. , Ezenkova Daria A. , Krivko Elizaveta A. , Zikiy Evgeniy V. , Moskalev Dmitry O. , Ivanov Anton I. , Korshakov Nikita D. , Rodionov Ilya A.
Published: April 2023

Josephson superconducting qubits and parametric amplifiers are prominent examples of superconducting quantum circuits that have shown rapid progress in recent years. As such devices become more complex, the requirements for reproducibility of their electrical properties across a chip are being tightened. Critical current of the Josephson junction Ic is the essential electrical parameter in a chip. So, its variation is to be minimized. According to the Ambegaokar–Baratoff formula, critical current is related to normal-state resistance, which can be measured at room temperature. In this study, we focused on the dominant source of non-uniformity for the Josephson junction critical current–junction area variation. We optimized Josephson junction fabrication process and demonstrated resistance variation of 9.8–4.4% and 4.8–2.3% across 22 × 22 mm2 and 5 × 10 mm2 chip areas, respectively. For a wide range of junction areas from 0.008 to 0.12 μm2, we ensure a small linewidth standard deviation of 4 nm measured over 4500 junctions with linear dimensions from 80 to 680 nm. We found that the dominate source of junction area variation limiting $${\mathrm{I}}_{\mathrm{c}}$$

I
c

reproducibility is the imperfection of the evaporation system. The developed fabrication process was tested on superconducting highly coherent transmon qubits (T1 > 100 μs) and a nonlinear asymmetric inductive element parametric amplifier.
Initiation of scutellum-derived callus is regulated by an embryo-like developmental pathway in rice
Authors: Guo Fu , Wang Hua , Lian Guiwei , Cai Gui , Liu Wu , Zhang Haidao , Li Dandan , Zhou Chun , Han Ning , Zhu Muyuan , Su Yinghua , Seo Pil Joon , Xu Lin , Bian Hongwu
Published: April 2023

In rice (Oryza sativa) tissue culture, callus can be induced from the scutellum in embryo or from the vasculature of non-embryonic organs such as leaves, nodes, or roots. Here we show that the auxin signaling pathway triggers cell division in the epidermis of the scutellum to form an embryo-like structure, which leads to callus formation. Our transcriptome data show that embryo-, stem cell-, and auxin-related genes are upregulated during scutellum-derived callus initiation. Among those genes, the embryo-specific gene OsLEC1 is activated by auxin and involved in scutellum-derived callus initiation. However, OsLEC1 is not required for vasculature-derived callus initiation from roots. In addition, OsIAA11 and OsCRL1, which are involved in root development, are required for vasculature-derived callus formation but not for scutellum-derived callus formation. Overall, our data indicate that scutellum-derived callus initiation is regulated by an embryo-like development program, and this is different from vasculature-derived callus initiation which borrows a root development program.
Topological resonances in a Möbius ring resonator
Authors: Chen Yao , Hou Jiankun , Zhao Guolin , Chen Xianfeng , Wan Wenjie
Published: April 2023

A Möbius strip, fascinating for its unique topological property of being a one-side nonorientable surface, has inspired mathematicians, physicists, engineers, and artists for many centuries. In a coherent system, coherent waves on the nonorientable surfaces reveal rich topological dynamics due to the interplay of coherence and topology. Here we experimentally observe topological resonances in a Möbius ring resonator formed in a twisted optical fiber loop. The twisted polarization-maintaining fiber ring encourages the hybridization of two polarization states, giving rise to the crucial Berry phase. This geometrical phase leads to the frequency shifts of fiber resonant modes with a non-trivial fractional mode number. Moreover, the resonant modes are topological, only resonating with certain polarized modes with circular chirality. These topological features introduce geometrical factors into coherent wave resonances, paving the way for topological information processing for quantum information, and coherent wave dynamics.
Theoretical study on the solvation mechanism of camptothecin in ionic liquids
Authors: Zhu Xiaotong , Huang Yiping , Ji Yuanhui
Published: April 2023

This work provides intermolecular insight to help design novel IL solvents for the efficient dissolution of insoluble natural drugsviaMD simulations and DFT calculations.
Te-induced fabrication of Pt3PdTe0.2 alloy nanocages by the self-diffusion of Pd atoms with unique MOR electrocatalytic performance
Authors: Shi Yuhe , Zhang Ling , Zhou Huiwen , Liu Ruanshan , Nie Shichen , Ye Guojie , Wu Fengxia , Niu Wenxin , Han Jing Long , Wang Ai Jie
Published: April 2023

Hollow Pt3PdTe0.2 alloy nanocages are produced with Pd nanocubes as sacrificial templates, showing enhanced electrocatalytic activity and stability with Pt and PtPd alloy as reference catalysts towards MOR and avoiding the need for harsh synthetic conditions.
Computational study of the fundamental properties of Zr-based chalcogenide perovskites for optoelectronics
Authors: Liu Diwen , Zeng Huihui , Peng Huan , Sa Rongjian
Published: April 2023

Chalcogenide perovskites have recently attracted enormous attention since they show promising optoelectronic properties and high stability for photovoltaic applications.
Modulation of the spin transition in 2D Hofmann frameworks via π⋯π stacking between the axial 2,5-dipyridyl-1,3,4-oxadiazoles
Authors: Feng Zhe , Ling Jie-Jie , Song Huijie , Zhu Dunru
Published: April 2023

For the 2D Hofmann spin crossover frameworks: the larger the axial conjugated ligand, the lower the critical temperature and the smaller the hysteresis width.
Construction of a self-supported dendrite-free zinc anode for high-performance zinc–air batteries
Authors: Mou Chuancheng , Bai Yujia , Zhao Chang , Wang Genxiang , Ren Yi , Liu Yijian , Wu Xuantao , Wang Hui , Sun Yuhan
Published: April 2023

The carbon-coated nanoarray structure can be stabilized in alkaline solution, which inhibits the dendrite growth and improves the cell lifetime.
Quasi-linear CuX2(X = Cl, Br) motif-built hybrid copper halides realizing encouraging nonlinear optical activities
Authors: Qi Jing-Li , Wu Jiajing , Guo Yue , Xu Zhong-Ping , Liu Wenlong , Guo Sheng-Ping
Published: April 2023

Two polar organic–inorganic metal halides (C20H20P)CuX2(X = Cl, Br) feature rare quasi-linear [CuX2]−units and exhibit phase-matchable SHG effects, and the structure–NLO properties relationship is investigated systematically.
An ultra-stable CuI12 cluster built from a CuI6 precursor sandwiched by two CuI3-thiacalixarene units for efficient photothermal conversion
Authors: Zhou Zuohu , Xu Linmeng , Zhao Guiyan , Zhou Kun , Chen Baokuan , Bi Yanfeng
Published: April 2023

A CuI6 precursor sandwiched by two CuI3-thiacalixarene PSBUs afforded an ultra-stable CuI12 cluster with efficient photothermal conversion properties both in the solid and liquid states.
Isoreticular design of flexible Zn-based tetracarboxylate MOFs
Authors: Felsner Bodo , Bon Volodymyr , Bachetzky Christopher , Brunner Eike , Kaskel Stefan
Published: April 2023

From DUT-13 to DUT-190: By increasing linker size, high flexibility is increased even further and is explored using in situ PXRD and 129Xe NMR during adsorption. Structures of two new flexible frameworks (DUT-180 and DUT-190) are presented.
An effective integrated Cu2O photocathode to boost photoelectrocatalytic CO2conversion
Authors: Jia Yongjian , Tian Zenghua , Jingyu Gao
Published: April 2023

An integrated Cu2O photocathode is designed for efficient and durable solar CO2reduction. The integrated device exhibits a solar-to-CO efficiency of 1.58% and quantum efficiency (QE) of 3.06%.
Arene–perfluoroarene interactions in molecular cocrystals for enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Wang Lingsong , Deng Jingheng , Jiang Mengjia , Zhen Chun , Li Fei , Li Shuyu , Bai Shuming , Zhang Xiaotao , Zhu Weigang
Published: April 2023

Cocrystals based on arene–perfluoroarene interactions exhibit better photocatalytic activity than monocrystals for pollutant degradation in water, with implications for the design of next generation photocatalyst materials.
ATP-triggered highly sensitive probes for super-resolution mitochondrial imaging and low-dose bioimaging
Authors: Han Taihe , Zhang Jinlong , Mu Shuai , Li Huihui , Wu Shuangtong , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhang Haixia
Published: April 2023

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), mainly produced in mitochondria, plays an important role in various pathological processes such as inflammation and acute liver injury.
Synthesis of ABCBA-type miktoarm H-shaped copolymers with poly(3-hexylthiophene) segments and their application to intrinsically stretchable photonic transistor memory
Authors: Inagaki Shin , Sung Chih-Yuan , Chang Ai-Chun , Lin Yan-Cheng , Chen Wen-Chang , Higashihara Tomoya
Published: April 2023

A series of novel ABCBA-type miktoarm H-shaped copolymers with poly(3-hexylthiophene) segments have been synthesized and applied to phototransistor memory device materials, showing excellent memory properties and ductility/elasticity.
Organic ionic plastic crystals: flexible solid electrolytes for lithium secondary batteries
Authors: Thomas Morgan L. , Hatakeyama-Sato Kan , Nanbu Shinkoh , Yoshizawa-Fujita Masahiro
Published: April 2023

This review introduces organic ionic plastic crystals (OIPCs) as Li-ion conductors and recent progress in the development of Li secondary batteries with OIPC-based solid electrolytes.
Standardized microstructure characterization of SOC electrodes as a key element for Digital Materials Design
Authors: Marmet Philip , Holzer Lorenz , Hocker Thomas , Boiger Gernot K. , Bausinger Holger , Mai Andreas , Fingerle Mathias , Reeb Sarah , Michel Dominik , Brader Joseph M.
Published: April 2023

A standardized microstructure characterization tool for solid oxide cell (SOC) electrodes is presented, allowing for the automatic determination of a large number of microstructure characteristics relevant for the cell performance.
Assessment and evaluation of Chitosan‐Metamizole nanoparticles for the fracture healing and analgesic effect: Preclinical study in rat model
Authors: Yin Li , Yuan Liyong , Peng Chunling , Wang Qionghua
Published: April 2023

To assess and evaluate Chitosan‐Metamizole nanoparticles for fracture healing and analgesic potential, nanoparticles were formulated using the ionotropic gelation method. The nanoparticles were evaluated for particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, loading efficiency, surface characteristics and drug release properties. The analgesic activity was determined in carrageenan‐induced arthritic male Wister rats. Further fracture healing potency, mechanical testing, radiographic examination and bone histology of the femur were studied. The drug loading efficiency of 11.38%–17.45%, particle size of 140–220 nm, and zeta potential of 19.12–23.14 mV were observed with a spherical, smooth appearance. Nanoparticles showed sustained release behaviour over a longer period. Nearly 4‐fold inhibition of oedema was observed in animals treated with nanoparticles with excellent fracture healing potential. The femurs treated with nanoparticles required greater force to fracture. Nanoparticles significantly improved the strength and healing process. Histopathological studies showed the potential of nanoparticles in the healing process. The study confirmed the potential of nanoparticles in fracture healing and enhancement of analgesic activity.