bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal graph attention network for COVID-19 outcome prediction
Authors: Keicher Matthias , Burwinkel Hendrik , Bani-Harouni David , Paschali Magdalini , Czempiel Tobias , Burian Egon , Makowski Marcus R. , Braren Rickmer , Navab Nassir , Wendler Thomas
Published: November 2023

When dealing with a newly emerging disease such as COVID-19, the impact of patient- and disease-specific factors (e.g., body weight or known co-morbidities) on the immediate course of the disease is largely unknown. An accurate prediction of the most likely individual disease progression can improve the planning of limited resources and finding the optimal treatment for patients. In the case of COVID-19, the need for intensive care unit (ICU) admission of pneumonia patients can often only be determined on short notice by acute indicators such as vital signs (e.g., breathing rate, blood oxygen levels), whereas statistical analysis and decision support systems that integrate all of the available data could enable an earlier prognosis. To this end, we propose a holistic, multimodal graph-based approach combining imaging and non-imaging information. Specifically, we introduce a multimodal similarity metric to build a population graph that shows a clustering of patients. For each patient in the graph, we extract radiomic features from a segmentation network that also serves as a latent image feature encoder. Together with clinical patient data like vital signs, demographics, and lab results, these modalities are combined into a multimodal representation of each patient. This feature extraction is trained end-to-end with an image-based Graph Attention Network to process the population graph and predict the COVID-19 patient outcomes: admission to ICU, need for ventilation, and mortality. To combine multiple modalities, radiomic features are extracted from chest CTs using a segmentation neural network. Results on a dataset collected in Klinikum rechts der Isar in Munich, Germany and the publicly available iCTCF dataset show that our approach outperforms single modality and non-graph baselines. Moreover, our clustering and graph attention increases understanding of the patient relationships within the population graph and provides insight into the network’s decision-making process.
STAT3 phosphorylation at serine 727 activates specific genetic programs and promotes clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) aggressiveness
Authors: Arévalo J. , Campoy I. , Durán M. , Nemours S. , Areny A. , Vall-Palomar M. , Martínez C. , Cantero-Recasens G. , Meseguer A.
Published: November 2023

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcription factor mainly activated by phosphorylation in either tyrosine 705 (Y705) or serine 727 (S727) residues that regulates essential processes such as cell differentiation, apoptosis inhibition, or cell survival. Aberrant activation of STAT3 has been related to development of nearly 50% of human cancers including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). In fact, phosho-S727 (pS727) levels correlate with overall survival of ccRCC patients. With the aim to elucidate the contribution of STAT3 phosphorylation in ccRCC development and progression, we have generated human-derived ccRCC cell lines carrying STAT3 Y705 and S727 phosphomutants. Our data show that the phosphomimetic substitution Ser727Asp facilitates a pro-tumoral phenotype in vitro,in a Y705-phosphorylation-independent manner. Moreover, we describe that STAT3 phosphorylation state determines the expression of different subsets of target genes associated with distinct biological processes, being pS727-dependent genes the most related to cellular hallmarks of cancer. In summary, the present study constitutes the first analysis on the role of overall STAT3 phosphorylation state in ccRCC and demonstrates that pS727 promotes the expression of a specific subset of target genes that might be clinically relevant as novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for ccRCC.
Ultra-high sensitive cancerous cells detection and sensing capabilities of photonic biosensor
Authors: Aly Arafa H. , Mohamed B. A. , Al-Dossari M. , Awasthi S. K. , Fouad Emadelden , Amin A. F.
Published: November 2023

The ultra-high sensitive cancer cell detection capabilities of one-dimensional photonic crystal with defect have been theoretically examined in this work. The simulations of the work have been carried out with MATLAB programming and transfer matrix method. The performance of the proposed biosensor loaded separately with samples containing different cancer cells has been studied by changing the period number, defect layer thickness, and incident angle corresponding to s polarized light only to identify the parameters under which the proposed design becomes ultra-sensitive. The working principle of the proposed biosensor is to sense the minute change in the refractive index of the analytes containing different cancer cells of human. This sensing is done shifting the respective defect mode inside photonic band gap of the structure from one position to other near by position due to change in the refractive index of sample under consideration. Our structure under optimum conditions yields maximum shifting in the position of defect mode from 1538 to 1648 nm corresponding to the samples containing normal and Glioblastoma cells of refractive indices 1.350 and 1.4470 respectively which results a ultra-high sensitivity of 4270.525928 nm/RIU.
Experimental hemodialysis in diet-induced ketosis and the potential use of dialysis as an adjuvant cancer treatment
Authors: Öberg Carl M. , Sternby Jan , Nilsson Anders , Storr Markus , Flieg Ralf , Harenski Kai , Roos Viktoria , Källquist Linda , Hobro Sture
Published: November 2023

Numerous in vivo studies on the ketogenic diet, a diet that can induce metabolic conditions resembling those following extended starvation, demonstrate strong outcomes on cancer survival, particularly when combined with chemo-, radio- or immunological treatments. However, the therapeutic application of ketogenic diets requires strict dietary adherence from well-informed and motivated patients, and it has recently been proposed that hemodialysis might be utilized to boost ketosis and further destabilize the environment for cancer cells. Yet, plasma ketones may be lost in the dialysate—lowering blood ketone levels. Here we performed a single 180-min experimental hemodialysis (HD) session in six anesthetized Sprague–Dawley rats given ketogenic diet for five days. Median blood ketone levels pre-dialysis were 3.5 mmol/L (IQR 2.2 to 5.6) and 3.8 mmol/L (IQR 2.2 to 5.1) after 180 min HD, p = 0.54 (95% CI − 0.6 to 1.2). Plasma glucose levels were reduced by 36% (− 4.5 mmol/L), p < 0.05 (95% CI − 6.7 to − 2.5). Standard base excess was increased from − 3.5 mmol/L (IQR − 4 to − 2) to 0.5 mmol/L (IQR − 1 to 3), p < 0.01 (95% CI 2.0 to 5.0). A theoretical model was applied confirming that intra-dialytic glucose levels decrease, and ketone levels slightly increase since hepatic ketone production far exceeds dialytic removal. Our experimental data and in-silico modeling indicate that elevated blood ketone levels during ketosis are maintained during hemodialysis despite dialytic removal.
The influence of large-diameter multifocal contact lens on ocular surface, visual quality, and visual function for presbyopic adults with dry eye syndromes
Authors: Hsiao Ching-Jen , Tung Hsiao-Ching , Tien Chuen‐Lin , Chang Yu-Wen , Cheng Ching-Ying
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the influence of large-diameter multifocal contact lenses on the ocular surface, visual quality, and visual function for presbyopic adults with dry eye syndromes. The study enrolled 40–55-year-old adults with presbyopia and dry eye syndromes (DES). The subjects were randomly assigned to three groups wearing different designs of contact lenses (Proclear, SMR, and Optimum) for 6–8 h a day for two weeks. Ocular surface health, tear quality, visual quality, and visual function were measured before and after lens wear. No significant difference was observed across all three groups for the amount of conjunctival redness, blink frequency (lens on), and stereopsis vision before and after wearing. Although there seemed to be a significant declining trend for corneal staining and limbal redness, non-invasive tear break-up time (TBUT), and lipid layer thickness while lens wear, the measured values were all within the normal range. Vice-versa after lens removal, results also showed significant improvement on lipid layer thickness, blink frequency (lens off), and contact TBUT. A significant improvement was observed in the modulation transfer function (MTF) of the total area ratio after wearing contact lenses. In contrast, the MTF of the high-order aberration area ratio resulting from lens wear was lower than that of the baseline measurement. There are also significant improvements observed for SMR and Optimum regarding near visual acuity, near point of accommodation, and the subjective questionnaire (OSDI and VBP) scores. Although it is difficult to avoid a specific negative impact on the ocular surface and tear film, visual function and visual quality can still be positively improved, especially shown on larger diameter and distance-center designed multifocal contact lenses.
Non-instrumental information seeking is resistant to acute stress
Authors: Bode Stefan , Jiwa Matthew , Chum Chelsea , Frost Leilani , Heekeren Hauke R. , Wingenfeld Katja , Deuter Christian E.
Published: November 2023

Previous research has shown that people intrinsically value non-instrumental information, which cannot be used to change the outcome of events, but only provides an early resolution of uncertainty. This is true even for information about rather inconsequential events, such as the outcomes of small lotteries. Here we investigated whether participants’ willingness to pay for non-instrumental information about the outcome of simple coin-flip lotteries with guaranteed winnings was modulated by acute stress. Stress was induced using the Socially Evaluated Cold Pressor Test (SECPT), and information-seeking choices were compared to a warm water control group. Our results neither support the hypothesis that stress decreases information-seeking by directing cognitive resources away from the relevance of the lotteries, nor the opposite hypothesis that stress increases information-seeking by driving anxiety levels up. Instead, we found that despite successful stress induction, as evidenced by increased saliva cortisol levels in the SECPT group, information valuation was remarkably stable. This finding is in line with recent findings that experimentally increased state anxiety did not modulate non-instrumental information seeking. Together, these results suggest that the aversiveness of “not knowing” is a stable cognitive state and not easily modulated by situational context, such as acute stress.
Rhombohedral boron monosulfide as a metal-free photocatalyst
Authors: Miyazaki Keisuke , Yamaguchi Akira , Kusaka Haruki , Watanabe Norinobu , Wardhana Aufandra Cakra , Ishii Satoshi , Yamamoto Akiyasu , Miyakawa Masashi , Taniguchi Takashi , Kondo Takahiro , Miyauchi Masahiro
Published: November 2023

Most of previous photocatalysts contain metal species, thus exploring a metal-free photocatalyst is still challenging. A metal-free photocatalyst has an advantage for the development of economical and non-toxic artificial photosynthesis system and/or environmental purification applications. In this study, rhombohedral boron monosulfide (r-BS) was synthesized by a high-pressure solid-state reaction, and its photocatalytic properties were investigated. r-BS absorbed visible light, and its photocurrent action spectrum also exhibited visible light responsivity. The r-BS evolved hydrogen (H2) from water under ultraviolet (UV) as well as under visible light irradiation, and its internal quantum efficiency reached 1.8% under UV light irradiation. In addition to the H2 evolution reaction, the r-BS photocatalyst drove carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction and dye oxidation reactions under UV irradiation. Although bare r-BS was not so stable under strong light irradiation in water, cocatalyst modification improved its stability. These results indicate that r-BS is a new class of non-metal photocatalyst applicable for H2 production, CO2 reduction, and environmental purification reactions.
Harmful effect of repetitive intravenous iodinated contrast media administration on the long-term renal function of patients with early gastric cancer
Authors: Koo Ja Ho , Lee Myeongjee , Kim Eun Hwa , Oh Hyung Jung , Lim Joon Seok , Hyung Woo Jin , Yoon Hong In , Jung Inkyung , Chung Yong Eun
Published: November 2023

This retrospective study investigated whether repetitive exposure to intravenous iodinated contrast media (ICM) affects long-term renal function in patients who undergo curative surgery for early gastric cancer (EGC) collected from the Korean Health Insurance and Review Assessment (HIRA) database. Patients diagnosed with gastric cancer between January 2010 and December 2013 underwent regular computed tomography (CT) scans to monitor for extragastric recurrence. Patients who already had chronic kidney disease (CKD) before cancer diagnosis or had undergone chemotherapy or repeated surgery were excluded. A nested case–control study design was chosen to analyze the effect of repetitive ICM exposure to long-term renal function by comparing patients who developed CKD 2 years after cancer diagnosis and patients who did not. Among 59,971 patients collected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 1021 were diagnosed with CKD 2 years after cancer diagnosis. Using 1:5 matching after adjusting for age, sex and date of cancer diagnosis, 5097 control patients were matched to 1021 CKD patients. Conditional logistic regression showed that the number of CTs taken using ICM slightly increased the odds of CKD (odds ratio, 1.080; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.059, 1.100; P < 0.0001). Thus, the administration of ICM might contribute to chronic renal function impairment.
The common H232 STING allele shows impaired activities in DNA sensing, susceptibility to viral infection, and in monocyte cell function, while the HAQ variant possesses wild-type properties
Authors: Froechlich Guendalina , Finizio Arianna , Napolano Alessandra , Amiranda Sara , De Chiara Arianna , Pagano Pasqualina , Mallardo Massimo , Leoni Guido , Zambrano Nicola , Sasso Emanuele
Published: November 2023

Different innate immune pathways converge to Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and trigger type I interferon responses after recognition of abnormal nucleic acids in the cells. This non-redundant function renders STING a major player in immunosurveillance, and an emerging target for cancer and infectious diseases therapeutics. Beyond somatic mutations that often occur in cancer, the human gene encoding STING protein, TMEM173 (STING1), holds great genetic heterogeneity; R232, HAQ (R71H-G230A-R293Q) and H232 are the most common alleles. Although some of these alleles are likely to be hypomorphic, their function is still debated, due to the available functional assessments, which have been performed in biased biological systems. Here, by using genetic background-matched models, we report on the functional evaluation of R232, HAQ and H232 variants on STING function, and on how these genotypes affect the susceptibility to clinically relevant viruses, thus supporting a potential contributing cause to differences in inter-individual responses to infections. Our findings also demonstrate a novel toll-like receptor-independent role of STING in modulating monocytic cell function and differentiation into macrophages. We further supported the interplay of STING1 variants and human biology by demonstrating how monocytes bearing the H232 allele were impaired in M1/M2 differentiation, interferon response and antigen presentation. Finally, we assessed the response to PD-1 inhibitor in a small cohort of melanoma patients stratified according to STING genotype. Given the contribution of the STING protein in sensing DNA viruses, bacterial pathogens and misplaced cancer DNA, these data may support the development of novel therapeutic options for infectious diseases and cancer.
Electric hand warmer versus observation to avoid discomfort during scalp cooling for chemotherapy-induced alopecia prevention: a randomized study
Authors: Landeiro Luciana Castro Garcia , Lopes Paim Miranda Diego , Mathias Machado Roberto , Dienstmann Rodrigo , Costa e Silva Matheus , da Silva Ceci Figuerêdo , de Castro Adriana Lisbôa Ramalho , dos Santos Ana Paula Teixeira , Bomfim Victor Hugo Valença , Teixeira Machado Bruno , Viviane Carvalho Rodrigues Gonçalve Michele , Freitas Muniz Teixeira Andréa , Jamile Santiago Costa Maira , de Oliveira Dantas Viana Priscila , Almeida Pâmela , de Cerqueira Mathias Clarissa Maria
Published: November 2023

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a challenge in the management of cancer patients. Scalp cooling (SC) leads to reduction in CIA, however it is associated with significant adverse events, leading to 3–13% discontinuation rates. This pilot study evaluated the role of Electric Hand Warmers (EHW) on thermal (TC), sensorial (SCo) and general comfort (GC) in patients with breast cancer (BC) undergoing chemotherapy and SC to reduce CIA. Patients were randomly assigned to EHW use or observation. TC, SCo and GC were evaluated after each chemotherapy infusion. Favorable outcomes in both TC and SCo defined a positive result on GC. We analysed the impact of age, alopecia, chemotherapy regimen and EHW use in the different comfort scales using a Logistic Regression (LR) model. Forty women with early breast cancer were randomly assigned to EHW (n = 20) or observation (n = 20) during neo(adjuvant) chemotherapy. Median age was 53 years. In the EHW arm, favorable thermal response was reported by 79% versus 50% in the control arm (odds ratio [OR] 3.79, p < 0.001). SCo was satisfactory in 82% in the EHW arm versus 74% in the control arm (OR 1.62, p = 0.1). Overall, 73% in the EHW arm had favorable GC versus 44% in the control arm (OR 3.4, p < 0.001). Age, alopecia, and chemotherapy regimen did not impact on comfort measures. Conclusion: Our study suggests that the use of an EHW has a consistent favorable impact on TC and GC of BC patients under SC technology to prevent CIA.
Self-rated physical health predicts mortality in aging persons beyond objective health risks
Authors: Reinwarth Anna C. , Wicke Felix S. , Hettich Nora , Ernst Mareike , Otten Danielle , Brähler Elmar , Wild Philipp S. , Münzel Thomas , König Jochem , Lackner Karl J. , Pfeiffer Norbert , Beutel Manfred E.
Published: November 2023

Previous studies on self-rated health and mortality have usually not differentiated between physical and mental health, respectively have not considered physical diseases. This study aims to determine self-rated physical and mental health from middle to old age, examine associations with mortality adjusted for objective risk factors and assess effect modification by gender. In a large population-based sample (N = 14,993 at baseline), self-rated physical and mental health were rated separately by a single-item. Associations to mortality were modelled by Cox regressions, adjusting for potential confounding variables. Most participants rated their physical (79.4%), resp. mental health (82.3%) as good. Poor self-rated physical health was lowest in the youngest group (19.6%, age 35–44), and highest in midlife (29.1%, age 55–64). Poor self-rated mental health was lowest among the oldest (18.5%), and highest from 45 to 54 years (29.3%). Poor self-rated physical, but not mental health was predictive of mortality when adjusting for objective risk factors. Male gender and poor self-rated physical health interacted (RERI 0.43 95%-CI 0.02–0.85). Self-rated physical health was best in the youngest and worst in the midlife group, this pattern was reversed regarding self-rated mental health. Poor self-rated physical, but not mental health was predictive of mortality, adjusting for objective risk factors. It was more strongly predictive of mortality in men than in women. Poor subjective physical health ratings, should be taken seriously as an unfavorable prognostic sign, particularly in men.
Disturbance rejection model predictive control of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton
Authors: Jin Xin , Guo Jia
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, exoskeleton is broadly used in the rehabilitation training of many postoperative patients. However, the uncertainty and disturbances caused by different patients and system itself may lead to incompletely rehabilitation training as planned, or even unsafety. This paper addresses the control problem of a lower limb exoskeleton, in the spirit of the recent progress on model predictive control (MPC) and extended state observer (ESO). More precisely, our approach is based on the strategy that designing an ESO to estimate the total disturbance of the dynamics model and compensating it in the design of the MPC process. To accomplish this, we introduce the virtual control quantity to decouple the dynamics model of the system and summarize the human disturbances, unmeasured states and system non-linearity as the total disturbance of the model. By doing so, the uncertainty can be estimated by our designed ESO. Based on the moving horizontal optimization and feedback mechanism of MPC, the output prediction of the system can be more accurate since the uncertainty are effectively compensated. The virtual experiment results demonstrate that proposed controller significantly improves the control accuracy on lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton with disturbances (improved by over 34$$\%$$%), comparing with conventional MPC and fuzzy PID. As a result, our achievements will make contributions to better rehabilitation training for patients using rehabilitation exoskeletons.
Dual-radionuclide in vivo imaging of micro-metastasis and lymph tract with submillimetre resolution
Authors: Yagishita Atsushi , Takeda Shin’ichiro , Ohnuki Kazunobu , Katsuragawa Miho , Sampetrean Oltea , Fujii Hirofumi , Takahashi Tadayuki
Published: November 2023

Multi-radionuclide in vivo imaging with submillimetre resolution can be a potent tool for biomedical research. While high-resolution radionuclide imaging faces challenges in sensitivity, multi-radionuclide imaging encounters difficulty due to radiation contamination, stemming from crosstalk between radionuclides and Compton scattering. Addressing these challenges simultaneously is imperative for multi-radionuclide high-resolution imaging. To tackle this, we developed a high-spatial-resolution and high-energy-resolution small animal single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scanner, named CdTe-DSD SPECT-I. We first assessed the feasibility of multi-tracer SPECT imaging of submillimetre targets. Using the CdTe-DSD SPECT-I, we performed SPECT imaging of submillimetre zeolite spheres absorbed with 125I- and subsequently imaged 125I-accumulated spheroids of 200–400 µm in size within an hour, achieving clear and quantitative images. Furthermore, dual-radionuclide phantom imaging revealed a distinct image of the submillimetre sphere absorbed with 125I- immersed in a 99mTc-pertechnetate solution, and provided a fair quantification of each radionuclide. Lastly, in vivo imaging was conducted on a cancer-bearing mouse with lymph node micro-metastasis using dual-tracers. The results displayed dual-tracer images of lymph tract by 99mTc-phytic acid and the submillimetre metastatic lesion by 125I-, shown to align with the immunofluorescence image.
Orai1α and Orai1β support calcium entry and mammosphere formation in breast cancer stem cells
Authors: Jardin Isaac , Alvarado Sandra , Jimenez-Velarde Vanesa , Nieto-Felipe Joel , Lopez Jose J. , Salido Gines M. , Smani Tarik , Rosado Juan A.
Published: November 2023

Orai1 is the pore-forming subunit of the Ca2+-release activated Ca2+ channels that mediate store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in excitable and non-excitable cells. Two Orai1 forms have been identified in mammalian cells, the full-length variant Orai1α, and the short form Orai1β, lacking the N-terminal 63 amino acids. Stem cells were isolated from non-tumoral breast epithelial cells of the MCF10A cell line, and the most representative ER+ , HER2 or triple negative breast cancer cell lines MCF7, SKBR3 and MDA-MB-231, respectively. Orai and TRPC family members expression was detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting. Changes in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration were analyzed by confocal microscopy using Fluo 4 and the spheroid-forming ability and self-renewal was estimated in culture plates coated with pHEMA using a cell imaging system. Here, we have characterized the expression of Orai family members and several TRPC channels at the transcript level in breast stem cells (BSC) derived from the non-tumoral breast epithelial cell line MCF10A and breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) derived from the well-known estrogen receptor positive (ER+), HER2 and triple negative cell lines MCF7, SKBR3 and MDA-MB-231, respectively. Furthermore, we have evaluated the mammosphere formation efficiency and self-renewal of the BSC and BCSC. Next, through a combination of Orai1 knockdown by iRNA and the use of MDA-MB-231 KO cells, missing the native Orai1, transfected with plasmids encoding for either Orai1α or Orai1β, we show that Orai1 is essential for mammosphere formation and self-renewal efficiency in BCSC derived from triple negative and HER2 subtypes cell cultures, while this channel has a negligible effect in BCSC derived from ER+ cells as well as in non-tumoral BSC. Both, Orai1α, and Orai1β support SOCE in MDA-MB-231-derived BCSC with similar efficiency, as well as COX activation and mammosphere formation. These findings provide evidence of the functional role of Orai1α and Orai1β in spheroid forming efficiency and self-renewal in breast cancer stem cells.
Enduring questions in regenerative biology and the search for answers
Authors: Seifert Ashley W. , Duncan Elizabeth M. , Zayas Ricardo M.
Published: November 2023

The potential for basic research to uncover the inner workings of regenerative processes and produce meaningful medical therapies has inspired scientists, clinicians, and patients for hundreds of years. Decades of studies using a handful of highly regenerative model organisms have significantly advanced our knowledge of key cell types and molecular pathways involved in regeneration. However, many questions remain about how regenerative processes unfold in regeneration-competent species, how they are curtailed in non-regenerative organisms, and how they might be induced (or restored) in humans. Recent technological advances in genomics, molecular biology, computer science, bioengineering, and stem cell research hold promise to collectively provide new experimental evidence for how different organisms accomplish the process of regeneration. In theory, this new evidence should inform the design of new clinical approaches for regenerative medicine. A deeper understanding of how tissues and organs regenerate will also undoubtedly impact many adjacent scientific fields. To best apply and adapt these new technologies in ways that break long-standing barriers and answer critical questions about regeneration, we must combine the deep knowledge of developmental and evolutionary biologists with the hard-earned expertise of scientists in mechanistic and technical fields. To this end, this perspective is based on conversations from a workshop we organized at the Banbury Center, during which a diverse cross-section of the regeneration research community and experts in various technologies discussed enduring questions in regenerative biology. Here, we share the questions this group identified as significant and unanswered, i.e., known unknowns. We also describe the obstacles limiting our progress in answering these questions and how expanding the number and diversity of organisms used in regeneration research is essential for deepening our understanding of regenerative capacity. Finally, we propose that investigating these problems collaboratively across a diverse network of researchers has the potential to advance our field and produce unexpected insights into important questions in related areas of biology and medicine.
Synthesis and luminescence properties of substituted benzils
Authors: Yasui Masamichi , Fujihara Takashi , Ohtsu Hiroyoshi , Wada Yuki , Shimada Terumasa , Zhu Yiying , Kawano Masaki , Hanaya Kengo , Sugai Takeshi , Higashibayashi Shuhei
Published: November 2023

Photophysical properties of benzil (1,2-diphenylethane-1,2-dione) and its derivatives in the crystal state have recently attracted much attention. However, the study of substituted benzils has mostly been limited to para-substituted derivatives, which did not induce a significant effect on the emission wavelength compared to pristine benzil. The effects of ortho- and meta-substituents on the photophysical properties in the crystal state have not been investigated so far. Our recently developed organocatalytic pinacol coupling of substituted benzaldehydes allowed us to prepare various ortho-, meta-, and para-substituted benzil derivatives and to investigate their luminescence properties. Ortho- and meta-substituents affected the electronic states of benzils in the crystal state, resulting in differences in their luminescence properties. The luminescence wavelength and type, i.e., phosphorescence or fluorescence, were altered by these substituents. Fast self-recovering phosphorescence-to-phosphorescence mechanochromism by the para-CF3 substituent at room temperature was also discovered.
Agricultural input shocks affect crop yields more in the high-yielding areas of the world
Authors: Ahvo Aino , Heino Matias , Sandström Vilma , Chrisendo Daniel , Jalava Mika , Kummu Matti
Published: November 2023

The industrialization of agriculture has led to an increasing dependence on non-locally sourced agricultural inputs. Hence, shocks in the availability of agricultural inputs can be devastating to food crop production. There is also a pressure to decrease the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides in many areas. However, the combined impact of the agricultural input shocks on crop yields has not yet been systematically assessed globally. Here we modelled the effects of agricultural input shocks using a random forest machine learning algorithm. We show that shocks in fertilizers cause the most drastic yield losses. Under the scenario of 50% shock in all studied agricultural inputs, global maize production could decrease up to 26%, and global wheat production up to 21%, impacting particularly the high-yielding ‘breadbasket’ areas of the world. Our study provides insights into global food system resilience and can be useful for preparing for potential future shocks or agricultural input availability decreases at local and global scales.
Preparation and characterization of iron(iii) nitrilotriacetate complex in aqueous solutions for quantitative protein binding experiments
Authors: Borko Valentina , Friganović Tomislav , Weitner Tin
Published: November 2023

A detailed procedure for the preparation and characterization of FeNTA solutions is presented, which includes the standardization of both components of the chelate and can be readily applied to the study of the interaction of NTA with other cations.
Heterogeneous Pt-catalyzed transfer dehydrogenation of long-chain alkanes with ethylene
Authors: de la Croix Tim , Claes Nathalie , Eyley Samuel , Thielemans Wim , Bals Sara , De Vos Dirk
Published: November 2023

The catalytic transfer dehydrogenation of long-chain alkanes was investigated with simple heterogeneous Pt catalysts under mild conditions and with high selectivity, using ethylene as a cheap and abundant hydrogen acceptor.
Development of single-cell ICP-TOFMS to measure nanoplastics association with human cells
Authors: Hendriks Lyndsey , Kissling Vera M. , Buerki-Thurnherr Tina , Mitrano Denise M.
Published: November 2023

Nanoplastics, solid polymer particles smaller than 1 μm, are suspected to be widely present in the environment, food and air, and may pose a potential threat to human health.
A nanostructured lateral flow immunoassay strip combined with Au@SiO2 SERS nanotags for multiplex biomarker detection
Authors: Zhu Geng , Zhan Yuanbao , Lu Yu , Zheng Fei , Wan Yu , Liu Bing , Yang Xi , Wan Yanhui , Sun Qingjiang , Sha Jingjie , Huang Yan , Zhao Xiangwei
Published: November 2023

A nanostructured lateral flow immunoassay strip with Au@SiO2 SERS nanotags was constructed. This is the first time nanostructured T line and SERS-LFA has been combined, which has great potential for early non-invasive detection of AD biomarkers in blood.
2D layered double hydroxides and transition metal dichalcogenides for applications in the electrochemical production of renewable hydrogen
Authors: Alves Daniele , Kasturi P. Rupa , Collins Gillian , Barwa Tara N , Ramaraj Sukanya , Karthik Raj , Breslin Carmel B.
Published: November 2023

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are promising electrocatalysts in the splitting of water and the production of hydrogen.
IR regulation through preferential placement of h-BN nanosheets in a polymer network liquid crystal
Authors: Pisharody Gayathri R. , Sahoo Priyabrata , Shankar Rao D. S. , Ramakrishna Matte H. S. S. , Sikdar Debabrata , Krishna Prasad S.
Published: November 2023

A generic strategy of employing IR-transparent components to achieve prominent IR regulation via preferential placement of h-BN nanosheets in a polymer network liquid crystal with electric tunability.
Systematic characterization of m6A proteomics across 12 cancer types: a multi-omics integration study
Authors: Li Hongru , Jiang Yunke , Chen Jiajin , Li Zaiming , Zhang Ruyang , Wei Yongyue , Zhao Yang , Shen Sipeng , Chen Feng
Published: November 2023

The modification patterns of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulators and interacting genes are deeply involved in tumors.
Green synthesis trends and potential applications of bimetallic nanoparticles towards the sustainable development goals 2030
Authors: Larrañaga-Tapia Mariana , Betancourt-Tovar Benjamín , Videa Marcelo , Antunes-Ricardo Marilena , Cholula-Díaz Jorge L.
Published: November 2023

Green synthesized bimetallic nanoparticles may be recognized as key nanotechnological tools to provide disruptive and effective strategies to reach the Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs).
Panchromatic porphyrin-based dye-sensitized solar cells: from cosensitization to concerted companion dye approaches
Authors: Li Zhemin , Li Qizhao , Li Chengjie , Xie Yongshu
Published: November 2023

In this review, cosensitization, concerted companion and other strategies, enabling porphyrin sensitizers to achieve panchromatic absorption and the resulting high photovoltaic performance, are briefly summarized and discussed.
Interaction mechanism between water molecules and perovskites
Authors: Gao Yujia , Lin Dongxu , Liu Pengyi , Shi Tingting , Xie Weiguang
Published: November 2023

By discussing the interactions between water and perovskites, this review offers both a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for enhancing the stability and optoelectronic performance of perovskite photovoltaic devices.
Carbon nanotube papers with p–n junctions along the thickness direction
Authors: Tsai Hsin-Jung , Chou Ling-Hung , Chen Ping-Chun , Yang Yung-Kai , Hsu Wen-Kuang
Published: November 2023

Conductive papers made from carbon nanotubes and wood fibers exhibit a diode character.
Enhanced sensing performance of carbaryl pesticide by employing a MnO2/GO/e-Ag-based nanoplatform: role of graphene oxide as an adsorbing agent in the SERS analytical performance
Authors: Nga Dao Thi Nguyet , Mai Quan Doan , Nguyen Ha Anh , Le Nhat Trang Nguyen , Khanh Pham Minh , Hoa Nguyen Quang , Lam Vu Dinh , Hoang Van-Tuan , Le Anh-Tuan
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigate the role of graphene oxide (GO) on the analytical performance of MnO2/GO/e-Ag nanocomposite-based SERS sensors for the detection of carbaryl pesticide.
Biosynthesis enhancement of tropodithietic acid (TDA) antibacterial compound through biofilm formation by marine bacteria Phaeobacter inhibens on micro-structured polymer surfaces
Authors: Droumpali Ariadni , Liu Yuyan , Ferrer-Florensa Xavier , Sternberg Claus , Dimaki Maria , Andersen Aaron J. C. , Strube Mikael L. , Kempen Paul J. , Gram Lone , Taboryski Rafael
Published: November 2023

Biosynthesis of an antibacterial compound by marine bacteria is enhanced by growth of biofilms on micro-structured polymer surfaces.
Cell response and bone ingrowth to 3D printed Ti6Al4V scaffolds with Mg-incorporating sol–gel Ta2O5 coating
Authors: Zhang Bo , Feng Jun , Chen Shuo , Liao Ruohan , Zhang Chengdong , Luo Xuwei , Yang Zelong , Xiao Dongqin , He Kui , Duan Ke
Published: November 2023

A Mg-incorporating Ta coating was deposited on a 3D-printed Ti6Al4V scaffold using a sol–gel method. The coating enhanced osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and bone ingrowth in vivo.
Rapid assembly of structurally diverse cyanamides and disulfanes via base-mediated aminoalkylation of aryl thiourea
Authors: Zheng Yongpeng , Li Jianxiao , Qi Chaorong , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: November 2023

A general one-pot method for the preparation of cyanamides and disulfanes from aryl thioureas and halides via a base-mediated reaction was accomplished.
Novel 2-substituted-quinoxaline analogs with potential antiproliferative activity against breast cancer: insights into cell cycle arrest, topoisomerase II, and EGFR activity
Authors: Salem Manar G. , Abu El-ata Sara A. , Elsayed Elsherbiny H. , Mali Suraj N. , Alshwyeh Hussah Abdullah , Almaimani Ghassan , Almaimani Riyad A. , Almasmoum Hussain A. , Altwaijry Najla , Al-Olayan Ebtesam , Saied Essa M. , Youssef Mohamed F.
Published: November 2023

We reported a novel 2-coumarin-substituted-quinoxaline analogue (3b) with potential antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and targeting topoisomerase II, and EGFR activity.
Polyvinyl alcohol/propylene glycol facilitates reversible thermochromism of passive energy-saving flexible wood films at low (brightness) to high (depth) temperatures
Authors: Kang Zhe , Feng Nianrong , Liu Baorui , Hu Dongying
Published: November 2023

Polyvinyl alcohol/propylene glycol facilitates reversible thermochromism of passive energy-saving flexible wood films at low (brightness) to high (depth) temperatures.
Shaping the future of hybrid ion capacitors
Authors: Aravindan Vanchiappan , Oschatz Martin , Schutjajew Konstantin , Sevilla Marta
Published: November 2023

Vanchiappan Aravindan, Martin Oschatz, Konstantin Schutjajew and Marta Sevilla introduce this themed collection on hybrid ion capacitors.
New sources of genipin-rich substances for crosslinking future manufactured bio-based materials
Authors: Hurtado Colmenares Liliana B. , Nejati Maryam , Fang Yuan , Guo Boyang , Jiménez-Quero Amparo , Capezza Antonio J. , Sabino Marcos A.
Published: November 2023

Genipap (Genipa americana L.), also known as caruto, is a fruit native to Central and South America and presents a novel source of a crosslinking substance containing genipin for biopolymers in various applications.
High activity and excellent durability of oxygen-vacancy-rich ruthenium manganese oxide solid-solution nanowires for the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media
Authors: Zhu Heng , Wang Yongjie , Jiang Zhongqing , Deng Binglu , Jiang Zhong-Jie
Published: November 2023

Oxygen vacancy-rich solid-solution RuxMn1−xO2 nanowires have been reported to be efficient catalysts for acidic oxygen evolution reaction. They only need an overpotential of 200 mV to drive 10 mA cm−2 and show no obvious activity drop for >600 h.
Identifying pathways to metal–organic framework collapse during solvent activation with molecular simulations
Authors: Manning Joseph R. H. , Donval Gaël , Tolladay Mat , Underwood Tom L. , Parker Stephen C. , Düren Tina
Published: November 2023

Visualisation of MOF activation mechanisms, showing gas-like solvent behaviour leading to successful activation (top), and capillary-like solvent behaviour leading to collapse (bottom).
Construction of supramolecular dimer photosensitizers based on triphenylamine derivatives and cucurbit[8]uril for photocatalysis
Authors: Li Xin-Long , Cheng Dong-Liang , Niu Kai-Kai , Liu Hui , Yu Sheng-Sheng , Wang Yue-Bo , Xing Ling-Bao
Published: November 2023

We have designed and constructed supramolecular dimers between triphenylamine derivatives with AIE properties and CB[8] through host–guest interactions, which can be used as photosensitizers for photooxidation reactions of thioanisole.
Role of Er doping on isoamyl alcohol sensing performance of LaFeO3 microspheres and its prospects in wheat mildew detection
Authors: Xu Kaichun , Han Mengjie , Zheng Zichen , Xu Jinyong , Debliquy Marc , Zhang Chao
Published: November 2023

Er–LaFeO3 microspheres with high sensitivity and superior selectivity for isoamyl alcohol.
High-valent iron single-atom catalysts for improved overall water splitting via a reduced energy barrier and stabilization of the active center
Authors: Shankar Ayyavu , Marimuthu Sundaramoorthy , Maduraiveeran Govindhan
Published: November 2023

We demonstrate iron (Fe) single atoms stabilized on carbon–nickel nanosheet (C–Ni) electrodes via a single-step metal–organic-framework-assisted electrochemical approach for improved water splitting.
Fluorescence switch based on NIR-emitting carbon dots revealing high selectivity in the rapid response and bioimaging of oxytetracycline
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Muzammal , Li Fengli , Ahmed Farid , Khan Waheed Ullah , Xiong Hai
Published: November 2023

A nontoxic NIR-CDs nanoprobe exhibits dual responses to detect OTC in cell imaging (NIH3T3, HeLa) and effectively detects OTC in milk, honey, and lake water.
Introduction to nanozymes
Authors: Liu Shaoqin , Rotello Vincent M. , Unciti-Broceta Asier , Wei Hui
Published: November 2023

This Editorial written by Guest Editors Professors Shaoqin Liu, Vincent Rotello, Asier Unciti-Broceta and Hui Wei introduces the themed collection on nanozymes in Journal of Materials Chemistry B and Nanoscale.
A graphene oxide (GO)–porous anodic alumina (PAA) bilayer system: How GO dispersion regulates the lower RH detection limit to near zero in conjugation with PAA
Authors: Alam Noor , Islam S. S.
Published: November 2023

In RH-humidity sensors, improving the lower detection limit (LOD) with high sensing responsiveness is an unsolved problem to date.
A heterojunction composite of Bi2Se3 nanosheets and MoO3 nanobelts for a high-performance triethylamine sensor
Authors: Tan Xiangyun , Wang Li , Chen Xi , Zhang Haoliang , Chen Si , Qian Libing , Chen Zhiyuan , He Chunqing
Published: November 2023

A triethylamine (TEA) sensor based on Bi2Se3 nanosheets and MoO3 nanobelts with high response was designed using hydrothermal and ultra-sonication strategies.
Colour evolution of dynamic persistent luminescence of Zn3Ga2Ge2O10:Cr3+,Mn2+ phosphors for advanced anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Zhang Xiangyu , Hou Xiaochun , Gao Jie , Wang Zhigang , Zhao Xiaogang , Xu Chunlong , Gao Dangli
Published: November 2023

The ZGGO:Cr,Mn phosphors exhibit color-changeable photoluminescence and persistent luminescence via excitation wavelength and temperature management, showing the enormous potential for anti-counterfeiting and information storage applications.
Upconversion enhancement through engineering the local crystal field in Yb3+ and Er3+ codoped BaWO4 along with excellent temperature sensing performance
Authors: Xiang Guotao , Liu Zhen , Yang Zhiyu , Wang Yongjie , Yao Lu , Jiang Sha , Zhou Xianju , Li Li , Wang Xiaojun , Zhang Jiahua
Published: November 2023

Strong upconversion luminescence and excellent temperature sensing performance are simultaneously realized in BaWO4:Yb3+/Er3+ through Ca2+ doping.
Optimizing charge balance in carbon dot-based LEDs for enhanced performance
Authors: Yu Zhenzhen , Liu Zhenyang , Chen Mingjun , Zhao Jinxing , Hao Chaoqi , Zhang You , Wang Fenghe , Dong Guoyi , Guan Li , Li Xu
Published: November 2023

Bright green CD-based light-emitting diodes, prepared by an all solution method.
Pseudo-Directive Speech Act in the Javanese Language: Culture-Specific Pragmatic Perspective
Authors: Rahardi R. Kunjana , Rahmat Wahyudi , Kurniawan Yohan
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

This study aims to illustrate the diverse modes and implications of pseudo-directive speech acts in Javanese, specifically emphasizing the Jogjakarta area. This field of pragmatics has garnered heightened attention in recent decades. However, it is worth noting that language researchers have not thoroughly examined these pragmatic studies and have not been extensively explored in linguistics.

Method:

The primary data source of the study consists of excerpts of verbal expressions within the familial context. The provenance of the locational data can be traced to a familial unit with a cultural legacy deeply embedded in Javanese customs. The data were collected using observation and participation methodologies, employing advanced techniques of recording and note taking. The data were categorized and characterized to identify the various data types and formats. The tabulated results of classification and typification are presented to triangulate theory through expert validation and justification of theories. The method of contextual analysis was utilized to conduct the data analysis that relies on the pragmatic context.

Results:

The study's findings indicate the following: The Javanese language encompasses various modes of pseudo-directive utterances, such as commanding, ordering, suggesting, insinuating, and recommending. In addition, the Javanese language encompasses pseudo-directive pragmatics such as warning, prohibiting, reminding, suggesting, and commanding.

Conclusion:

This research will significantly assist in formulating a pragmatic framework that considers cultural factors, as other linguistic phenomena in various regional languages remain unresolved.
Arsenic uptake and metabolism by a marine cyanobacteria PCC7002
Authors: Siregar Tuti H.
Published: November 2023

Cyanobacteria Synechococcus PCC7002 is a typical marine bacterium that can tolerate salinity at around 20 ppt. In this study, cyanobacterium PCC7002 cells were incubated in a controlled environmental chamber for one week. Three different arsenic V (AsV) concentrations were added to the culture to observe the cyanobacterium’s capability to arsenic uptake. The arsenic uptake was then compared to the control media (without AsV addition). The higher the arsenic concentration added to the media, the more Arsenic occurs in the cells. Cyanobacteria cells could take up arsenic from their media at the range of 60-90% of the total arsenic exposed to the media, which showed their high arsenic tolerance. Speciation analysis using tandem HPLC and ICPMS showed that As-sugar is the main arsenic species in the cells, while inorganic arsenic is the main arsenic species in the media. Further analysis for signal confirmation using LCMS showed that the transformation of inorganic AsV into organic arsenic (As-sugar) confirmed the biotransformation of arsenic in the cyanobacteria cells. This result proves the vital role of cyanobacteria in arsenic cycling and biotransformation in marine environments.