bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) practice for depression and anxiety in the context of personality difficulties: a pilot audit of CPD workshop feedback
Authors: Warbrick Laura A. , Lavelle Timothy , Dunn Barnaby D.
Published: October 2024

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWPs) are central to NHS Talking Therapies services for depression and anxiety (TTad; formerly ‘IAPT’). This workforce has been trained to deliver low-intensity treatments for mild to moderate depression and anxiety. In practice, PWPs routinely work with more complex clients, likely due to a combination of reasons. Over half of referrals experience concurrent personality difficulties, which are linked to poorer treatment outcomes, and PWPs describe feeling unskilled to work with these clients. This study aimed to develop and pilot a Continuing Professional Development workshop for PWPs about enhancing practice in the context of concurrent personality difficulties; and evaluate acceptability, feasibility and potential impacts on clinical skills and attitudes. This is an audit of routine feedback from a pilot of the workshop offered in a single TTad PWP workforce (n=139). The workshop was successfully developed and a series of five workshops were delivered to 74% of the PWP workforce. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and a majority of PWPs reported improved confidence in key skills covered during the workshop, and a positive attitude towards working with clients with personality difficulties after the workshop. PWPs described enhanced capability, opportunity and motivation to undertake work with this client group following the workshop. The workshop showed potential to improve PWP confidence and skill to support TTad clients in the context of personality difficulties, although it is not yet known if this translates to better treatment outcomes for clients. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.

Key learning aims

(1)

Understand the feasibility of gathering feedback and outcome data of a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) workshop delivered in routine practice for PWPs.

(2)

Understand PWP perspectives on attending a CPD workshop to support tailoring PWP treatments for depression and anxiety in the context of personality difficulties.

(3)

Reflect on potential opportunity to enhance PWP treatments in the context of personality difficulties via brief training workshops.

(4)

Consider how COM-B can be used to explore barriers and enablers to PWPs implementing new learning to their practice.
Twin Data Support a Sensitive Period for Singing Ability
Authors: Yeom Daniel , Haslam Nick , Tan Yi Ting , McPherson Gary E. , Wilson Sarah J.
Published: October 2024

As with many other musical traits, the social environment is a key influence on the development of singing ability. While the familial singing environment is likely to be formative, its role relative to other environmental influences such as training is unclear. We used structural equation modeling to test relationships among demographic characteristics, familial environmental variables (early and current singing with family), vocal training, and singing ability in a large, previously documented sample of Australian twins (N = 1163). Notably, early singing with family, and to a lesser extent vocal training, predicted singing ability, whereas current singing with family did not. Early familial singing also mediated the relationship between sex and singing ability, with men who sang less with family during childhood showing poorer ability. Bivariate twin models between early familial singing and singing ability showed the phenotypic correlation was largely explained by shared environmental influences. This raises the possibility of a sensitive period for singing ability, with sociocultural expectations around singing potentially differentiating the developmental trajectories of this skill for men and women.
Heat Moves More Freely Through Warmer Sea Ice Than Scientists Thought
Authors: Scharping Nathaniel
Published: October 2024

Flowing brines transport heat more effectively than old models showed, potentially changing climate simulations.
Additive engineering for Sb2S3 indoor photovoltaics with efficiency exceeding 17%
Authors: Chen Xiao , Shu Xiaoxuan , Zhou Jiacheng , Wan Lei , Xiao Peng , Fu Yuchen , Ye Junzhi , Huang Yi-Teng , Yan Bin , Xue Dingjiang , Chen Tao , Chen Jiejie , Hoye Robert L. Z. , Zhou Ru
Published: October 2024

Indoor photovoltaics (IPVs) have attracted increasing attention for sustainably powering Internet of Things (IoT) electronics. Sb2S3 is a promising IPV candidate material with a bandgap of ~1.75 eV, which is near the optimal value for indoor energy harvesting. However, the performance of Sb2S3 solar cells is limited by nonradiative recombination, which is dependent on the quality of the absorber films. Additive engineering is an effective strategy to fine tune the properties of solution-processed films. This work shows that the addition of monoethanolamine (MEA) into the precursor solution allows the nucleation and growth of Sb2S3 films to be controlled, enabling the deposition of high-quality Sb2S3 absorbers with reduced grain boundary density, optimized band positions, and increased carrier concentration. Complemented with computations, it is revealed that the incorporation of MEA leads to a more efficient and energetically favorable deposition for enhanced heterogeneous nucleation on the substrate, which increases the grain size and accelerates the deposition rate of Sb2S3 films. Due to suppressed carrier recombination and improved charge-carrier transport in Sb2S3 absorber films, the MEA-modulated Sb2S3 solar cell yields a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.22% under AM1.5 G illumination, and an IPV PCE of 17.55% under 1000 lux white light emitting diode (WLED) illumination, which is the highest yet reported for Sb2S3 IPVs. Furthermore, we construct high performance large-area Sb2S3 IPV minimodules to power IoT wireless sensors, and realize the long-term continuous recording of environmental parameters under WLED illumination in an office. This work highlights the great prospect of Sb2S3 photovoltaics for indoor energy harvesting.
Clinical and economic outcomes of a pharmacogenomics-enriched comprehensive medication management program in a self-insured employee population
Authors: Fragala Maren S. , Keogh Murray , Goldberg Steven E. , Lorenz Raymond A. , Shaman Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2024

Clinical and economic outcomes from a pharmacogenomics-enriched comprehensive medication management program were evaluated over 26 months in a self-insured U.S. employee population (n = 452 participants; n = 1500 controls) using propensity matched pre-post design with adjusted negative binomial and linear regression models. After adjusting for baseline covariates, program participation was associated with 39% fewer inpatient (p = 0.05) and 39% fewer emergency department (p = 0.002) visits, and with 21% more outpatient visits (p < 0.001) in the follow-up period compared to the control group. Results show pharmacogenomics-enriched comprehensive medication management can favorably impact healthcare utilization in a self-insured employer population by reducing emergency department and inpatient visits and can offer the potential for cost savings. Self-insured employers may consider implementing pharmacogenomics-enriched comprehensive medication management to improve the healthcare of their employees.
Hyperexcitability and translational phenotypes in a preclinical mouse model of SYNGAP1-related intellectual disability
Authors: Fenton Timothy A. , Haouchine Olivia Y. , Hallam Elizabeth B. , Smith Emily M. , Jackson Kiya C. , Rahbarian Darlene , Canales Cesar P. , Adhikari Anna , Nord Alex S. , Ben-Shalom Roy , Silverman Jill L.
Published: October 2024

Disruption of SYNGAP1 directly causes a genetically identifiable neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) called SYNGAP1-related intellectual disability (SRID). Without functional SynGAP1 protein, individuals are developmentally delayed and have prominent features of intellectual disability (ID), motor impairments, and epilepsy. Over the past two decades, there have been numerous discoveries indicating the critical role of Syngap1. Several rodent models with a loss of Syngap1 have been engineered, identifying precise roles in neuronal structure and function, as well as key biochemical pathways key for synapse integrity. Homozygous loss of SYNGAP1/Syngap1 is lethal. Heterozygous mutations of Syngap1 result in a broad range of behavioral phenotypes. Our in vivo functional data, using the original mouse model from the Huganir laboratory, corroborated behaviors including robust hyperactivity and deficits in learning and memory in young adults. Furthermore, we described impairments in the domain of sleep, characterized using neurophysiological data that was collected with wireless, telemetric electroencephalography (EEG). Syngap1+/− mice exhibited elevated spiking events and spike trains, in addition to elevated power, most notably in the delta power frequency. For the first time, we illustrated that primary neurons from Syngap1+/− mice displayed: 1) increased network firing activity, 2) greater bursts, 3) and shorter inter-burst intervals between peaks, by utilizing high density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEA). Our work bridges in vitro electrophysiological neuronal activity and function with in vivo neurophysiological brain activity and function. These data elucidate quantitative, translational biomarkers in vivo and in vitro that can be utilized for the development and efficacy assessment of targeted treatments for SRID.
Associations between antagonistic SNPs for neuropsychiatric disorders and human brain structure
Authors: Federmann Lydia M. , David Friederike S. , Jockwitz Christiane , Mühleisen Thomas W. , Pelzer Dominique I. , Nöthen Markus M. , Caspers Svenja , Amunts Katrin , Goltermann Janik , Andlauer Till F. M. , Stein Frederike , Brosch Katharina , Kircher Tilo , Cichon Sven , Dannlowski Udo , Sindermann Lisa , Forstner Andreas J.
Published: October 2024

A previously published genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis across eight neuropsychiatric disorders identified antagonistic single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at eleven genomic loci where the same allele was protective against one neuropsychiatric disorder and increased the risk for another. Until now, these antagonistic SNPs have not been further investigated regarding their link to brain structural phenotypes. Here, we explored their associations with cortical surface area and cortical thickness (in 34 brain regions and one global measure each) as well as the volumes of eight subcortical structures using summary statistics of large-scale GWAS of brain structural phenotypes. We assessed if significantly associated brain structural phenotypes were previously reported to be associated with major neuropsychiatric disorders in large-scale case-control imaging studies by the ENIGMA consortium. We further characterized the effects of the antagonistic SNPs on gene expression in brain tissue and their association with additional cognitive and behavioral phenotypes, and performed an exploratory voxel-based whole-brain analysis in the FOR2107 study (n = 754 patients with major depressive disorder and n = 847 controls). We found that eight antagonistic SNPs were significantly associated with brain structural phenotypes in regions such as anterior parts of the cingulate cortex, the insula, and the superior temporal gyrus. Case-control differences in implicated brain structural phenotypes have previously been reported for bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition, antagonistic SNPs were associated with gene expression changes in brain tissue and linked to several cognitive-behavioral traits. In our exploratory whole-brain analysis, we observed significant associations of gray matter volume in the left superior temporal pole and left superior parietal region with the variants rs301805 and rs1933802, respectively. Our results suggest that multiple antagonistic SNPs for neuropsychiatric disorders are linked to brain structural phenotypes. However, to further elucidate these findings, future case-control genomic imaging studies are required.
LEAP2, a ghrelin receptor inverse agonist, and its effect on alcohol-related responses in rodents
Authors: Tufvesson-Alm Maximilian , Aranäs Cajsa , Blid Sköldheden Sebastian , Vestlund Jesper , Edvardsson Christian E. , Jerlhag Elisabet
Published: October 2024

The underlying neurobiology of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is complex and needs further unraveling, with one of the key mechanisms being the gut-brain peptide ghrelin and its receptor (GHSR). However, additional substrates of the ghrelin pathway, such as liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP2), an endogenous GHSR inverse agonist, may contribute to this neurobiological framework. While LEAP2 modulates feeding and reward through central mechanisms, its effects on alcohol responses are unknown. The aim of the present study was therefore to identify the impact of central LEAP2 on the ability of alcohol to activate the mesolimbic dopamine system and to define its ability to control alcohol intake. These experiments revealed that central LEAP2 (i.e. into the third ventricle) prevented the ability of alcohol to cause locomotor stimulation in male mice, suppressed the memory of alcohol reward and attenuated the dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens caused by alcohol. Moreover, central LEAP2 reduced alcohol consumption in both male and female rats exposed to alcohol for 6 weeks before treatment. However, the serum levels of LEAP2 were similar between high- and low- alcohol-consuming (male) rats. Furthermore, central LEAP2 lowered the food intake in the alcohol-consuming male rats and reduced the body weight in the females. Collectively, the present study revealed that central LEAP2 mitigates alcohol-related responses in rodents, contributing to our understanding of the ghrelin pathway’s role in alcohol effects.
Mucosa-like differentiation of head and neck cancer cells is inducible and drives the epigenetic loss of cell malignancy
Authors: Oppel Felix , Gendreizig Sarah , Martinez-Ruiz Laura , Florido Javier , López-Rodríguez Alba , Pabla Harkiren , Loganathan Lakshna , Hose Leonie , Kühnel Philipp , Schmidt Pascal , Schürmann Matthias , Neumann Judith Martha , Viyof Ful Flavian , Scholtz Lars Uwe , Ligum Dina , Brasch Frank , Niehaus Karsten , Escames Germaine , Busche Tobias , Kalinowski Jörn , Goon Peter , Sudhoff Holger
Published: October 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly malignant disease with high death rates that have remained substantially unaltered for decades. Therefore, new treatment approaches are urgently needed. Human papillomavirus-negative tumors harbor areas of terminally differentiated tissue that are characterized by cornification. Dissecting this intrinsic ability of HNSCC cells to irreversibly differentiate into non-malignant cells may have tumor-targeting potential. We modeled the cornification of HNSCC cells in a primary spheroid model and analyzed the mechanisms underlying differentiation by ATAC-seq and RNA-seq. Results were verified by immunofluorescence using human HNSCC tissue of distinct anatomical locations. HNSCC cell differentiation was accompanied by cell adhesion, proliferation stop, diminished tumor-initiating potential in immunodeficient mice, and activation of a wound-healing-associated signaling program. Small promoter accessibility increased despite overall chromatin closure. Differentiating cells upregulated KRT17 and cornification markers. Although KRT17 represents a basal stem cell marker in normal mucosa, we confirm KRT17 to represent an early differentiation marker in HNSCC tissue. Cornification was frequently found surrounding necrotic areas in human tumors, indicating an involvement of pro-inflammatory stimuli. Indeed, inflammatory mediators activated the differentiation program in primary HNSCC cells. In HNSCC tissue, distinct cell differentiation states were found to create a common tissue architecture in normal mucosa and HNSCCs. Our data demonstrate a loss of cell malignancy upon faithful HNSCC cell differentiation, indicating that targeted differentiation approaches may be therapeutically valuable. Moreover, we describe KRT17 to be a candidate biomarker for HNSCC cell differentiation and early tumor detection.
Fabric-based lamina emergent MXene-based electrode for electrophysiological monitoring
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , Ho Dong Hae , Jekal Janghwan , Cho Soo Young , Choi Young Jin , Oh Saehyuck , Choi Yoon Young , Lee Taeyoon , Jang Kyung-In , Cho Jeong Ho
Published: October 2024

Commercial wearable biosignal sensing technologies encounter challenges associated with irritation or discomfort caused by unwanted objects in direct contact with the skin, which can discourage the widespread adoption of wearable devices. To address this issue, we propose a fabric-based lamina emergent MXene-based electrode, a lightweight and flexible shape-morphing wearable bioelectrode. This work offers an innovative approach to biosignal sensing by harnessing the high electrical conductivity and low skin-to-electrode contact impedance of MXene-based dry electrodes. Its design, inspired by Nesler’s pneumatic interference actuator, ensures stable skin-to-electrode contact, enabling robust biosignal detection in diverse situations. Extensive research is conducted on key design parameters, such as the width and number of multiple semicircular legs, the radius of the anchoring frame, and pneumatic pressure, to accommodate a wide range of applications. Furthermore, a real-time wireless electrophysiological monitoring system has been developed, with a signal-to-noise ratio and accuracy comparable to those of commercial bioelectrodes. This work excels in recognizing various hand gestures through a convolutional neural network, ultimately introducing a shape-morphing electrode that provides reliable, high-performance biosignal sensing for dynamic users.
Diminished circadian and ultradian rhythms of human brain activity in pathological tissue in vivo
Authors: Thornton Christopher , Panagiotopoulou Mariella , Chowdhury Fahmida A. , Diehl Beate , Duncan John S. , Gascoigne Sarah J. , Besne Guillermo , McEvoy Andrew W. , Miserocchi Anna , Smith Billy C. , de Tisi Jane , Taylor Peter N. , Wang Yujiang
Published: October 2024

Chronobiological rhythms, such as the circadian rhythm, have long been linked to neurological disorders, but it is currently unknown how pathological processes affect the expression of biological rhythms in the brain. Here, we use the unique opportunity of long-term, continuous intracranially recorded EEG from 38 patients (totalling 6338 hours) to delineate circadian (daily) and ultradian (minute to hourly) rhythms in different brain regions. We show that functional circadian and ultradian rhythms are diminished in pathological tissue, independent of regional variations. We further demonstrate that these diminished rhythms are persistent in time, regardless of load or occurrence of pathological events. These findings provide evidence that brain pathology is functionally associated with persistently diminished chronobiological rhythms in vivo in humans, independent of regional variations or pathological events. Future work interacting with, and restoring, these modulatory chronobiological rhythms may allow for novel therapies.
Genomic adaptation to small population size and saltwater consumption in the critically endangered Cat Ba langur
Authors: Zhang Liye , Leonard Neahga , Passaro Rick , Luan Mai Sy , Van Tuyen Pham , Han Le Thi Ngoc , Cam Nguyen Huy , Vogelnest Larry , Lynch Michael , Fine Amanda E. , Nga Nguyen Thi Thanh , Van Long Nguyen , Rawson Benjamin M. , Behie Alison , Van Nguyen Truong , Le Minh D. , Nadler Tilo , Walter Lutz , Marques-Bonet Tomas , Hofreiter Michael , Li Ming , Liu Zhijin , Roos Christian
Published: October 2024

Many mammal species have declining populations, but the consequences of small population size on the genomic makeup of species remain largely unknown. We investigated the evolutionary history, genetic load and adaptive potential of the Cat Ba langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus), a primate species endemic to Vietnam’s famous Ha Long Bay and with less than 100 living individuals one of the most threatened primates in the world. Using high-coverage whole genome data of four wild individuals, we revealed the Cat Ba langur as sister species to its conspecifics of the northern limestone langur clade and found no evidence for extensive secondary gene flow after their initial separation. Compared to other primates and mammals, the Cat Ba langur showed low levels of genetic diversity, long runs of homozygosity, high levels of inbreeding and an excess of deleterious mutations in homozygous state. On the other hand, genetic diversity has been maintained in protein-coding genes and on the gene-rich human chromosome 19 ortholog, suggesting that the Cat Ba langur retained most of its adaptive potential. The Cat Ba langur also exhibits several unique non-synonymous variants that are related to calcium and sodium metabolism, which may have improved adaptation to high calcium intake and saltwater consumption.
Structural basis of thiamine transport and drug recognition by SLC19A3
Authors: Gabriel Florian , Spriestersbach Lea , Fuhrmann Antonia , Jungnickel Katharina E. J. , Mostafavi Siavash , Pardon Els , Steyaert Jan , Löw Christian
Published: October 2024

Thiamine (vitamin B1) functions as an essential coenzyme in cells. Humans and other mammals cannot synthesise this vitamin de novo and thus have to take it up from their diet. Eventually, every cell needs to import thiamine across its plasma membrane, which is mainly mediated by the two specific thiamine transporters SLC19A2 and SLC19A3. Loss of function mutations in either of these transporters lead to detrimental, life-threatening metabolic disorders. SLC19A3 is furthermore a major site of drug interactions. Many medications, including antidepressants, antibiotics and chemotherapeutics are known to inhibit this transporter, with potentially fatal consequences for patients. Despite a thorough functional characterisation over the past two decades, the structural basis of its transport mechanism and drug interactions has remained elusive. Here, we report seven cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the human thiamine transporter SLC19A3 in complex with various ligands. Conformation-specific nanobodies enable us to capture different states of SLC19A3’s transport cycle, revealing the molecular details of thiamine recognition and transport. We identify seven previously unknown drug interactions of SLC19A3 and present structures of the transporter in complex with the inhibitors fedratinib, amprolium and hydroxychloroquine. These data allow us to develop an understanding of the transport mechanism and ligand recognition of SLC19A3.
Bacillus subtilis EpsA-O: A novel exopolysaccharide structure acting as an efficient adhesive in biofilms
Authors: Dogsa Iztok , Bellich Barbara , Blaznik Mojca , Lagatolla Cristina , Ravenscroft Neil , Rizzo Roberto , Stopar David , Cescutti Paola
Published: October 2024

Extracellular polysaccharides are crucial components for biofilm development. Although Bacillus subtilis is one of the most characterized Gram-positive biofilm model system, the structure-function of its exopolysaccharide, EpsA-O, remains to be elucidated. By combining chemical analysis, NMR spectroscopy, rheology, and molecular modeling, high-resolution data of EpsA-O structure from atom to supramolecular scale was obtained. The repeating unit is composed of the trisaccharide backbone [→3)-β-d-QuipNAc4NAc-(1→3)-β-d-GalpNAc-(1→3)-α-d-GlcpNAc-(1]n, and the side chain β-d-Galp(3,4-S-Pyr)-(1→6)-β-d-Galp(3,4-S-Pyr)-(1→6)-α-d-Galp-(1→ linked to C4 of GalNAc. Close agreement between the primary structure and rheological behavior allowed us to model EpsA-O macromolecular and supramolecular solution structure, which can span the intercellular space forming a gel that leads to a complex 3D biofilm network as corroborated by a mutant strain with impaired ability to produce EpsA-O. This is a comprehensive structure-function investigation of the essential biofilm adhesive exopolysaccharide that will serve as a useful guide for future studies in biofilm architecture formation.
Neural circuit mechanisms underlying context-specific halting in Drosophila
Authors: Sapkal Neha , Mancini Nino , Kumar Divya Sthanu , Spiller Nico , Murakami Kazuma , Vitelli Gianna , Bargeron Benjamin , Maier Kate , Eichler Katharina , Jefferis Gregory S. X. E. , Shiu Philip K. , Sterne Gabriella R. , Bidaye Salil S.
Published: October 2024

Walking is a complex motor programme involving coordinated and distributed activity across the brain and the spinal cord. Halting appropriately at the correct time is a critical component of walking control. Despite progress in identifying neurons driving halting1–6, the underlying neural circuit mechanisms responsible for overruling the competing walking state remain unclear. Here, using connectome-informed models7–9 and functional studies, we explain two fundamental mechanisms by which Drosophila implement context-appropriate halting. The first mechanism (‘walk-OFF’) relies on GABAergic neurons that inhibit specific descending walking commands in the brain, whereas the second mechanism (‘brake’) relies on excitatory cholinergic neurons in the nerve cord that lead to an active arrest of stepping movements. We show that two neurons that deploy the walk-OFF mechanism inhibit distinct populations of walking-promotion neurons, leading to differential halting of forward walking or turning. The brake neurons, by constrast, override all walking commands by simultaneously inhibiting descending walking-promotion neurons and increasing the resistance at the leg joints. We characterized two behavioural contexts in which the distinct halting mechanisms were used by the animal in a mutually exclusive manner: the walk-OFF mechanism was engaged for halting during feeding and the brake mechanism was engaged for halting and stability during grooming.
Inducing novel endosymbioses by implanting bacteria in fungi
Authors: Giger Gabriel H. , Ernst Chantal , Richter Ingrid , Gassler Thomas , Field Christopher M. , Sintsova Anna , Kiefer Patrick , Gäbelein Christoph G. , Guillaume–Gentil Orane , Scherlach Kirstin , Bortfeld-Miller Miriam , Zambelli Tomaso , Sunagawa Shinichi , Künzler Markus , Hertweck Christian , Vorholt Julia A.
Published: October 2024

Endosymbioses have profoundly impacted the evolution of life and continue to shape the ecology of a wide range of species. They give rise to new combinations of biochemical capabilities that promote innovation and diversification1,2. Despite the many examples of known endosymbioses across the tree of life, their de novo emergence is rare and challenging to uncover in retrospect3–5. Here we implant bacteria into the filamentous fungus Rhizopus microsporus to follow the fate of artificially induced endosymbioses. Whereas Escherichia coli implanted into the cytosol induced septum formation, effectively halting endosymbiogenesis, Mycetohabitans rhizoxinica was transmitted vertically to the progeny at a low frequency. Continuous positive selection on endosymbiosis mitigated initial fitness constraints by several orders of magnitude upon adaptive evolution. Phenotypic changes were underscored by the accumulation of mutations in the host as the system stabilized. The bacterium produced rhizoxin congeners in its new host, demonstrating the transfer of a metabolic function through induced endosymbiosis. Single-cell implantation thus provides a powerful experimental approach to study critical events at the onset of endosymbiogenesis and opens opportunities for synthetic approaches towards designing endosymbioses with desired traits.
Device response principles and the impact on energy resolution of epitaxial quantum dot scintillators with monolithic photodetector integration
Authors: Minns Allan , Mahajan Tushar , Tokranov Vadim , Yakimov Michael , Hedges Michael , Murat Pavel , Oktyabrsky Serge
Published: October 2024

Epitaxial quantum dot (QD) scintillator crystals with picosecond-scale timing and high light yield have been created for medical imaging, high energy physics and national security applications. Monolithic photodetector (PD) integration enables the sensing of photons generated within the waveguiding crystal and allows a wide range of scintillator-photodetector coupling geometries. Until recently, these doubly novel devices have suffered from complex, high variance responses to monoenergetic sources which significantly reduces their precision and accuracy. The principles governing the overall device response have now been discerned and embodied by an expression derived within a geometrical optics framework which considers optical properties, surface roughness and photodetector coupling geometry. Response variation due to these factors was sufficiently reduced to obtain material-related energy resolution values of 2.4% with alpha particles. These findings place energy resolution alongside luminescence timescale, photon yield, and radiation hardness as outstanding properties of these engineered materials.
Ageing-associated long non-coding RNA extends lifespan and reduces translation in non-dividing cells
Authors: Anver Shajahan , Sumit Ahmed Faisal , Sun Xi-Ming , Hatimy Abubakar , Thalassinos Konstantinos , Marguerat Samuel , Alic Nazif , Bähler Jürg
Published: October 2024

Genomes produce widespread long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) of largely unknown functions. We characterize aal1 (ageing-associated lncRNA), which is induced in quiescent fission yeast cells. Deletion of aal1 shortens the chronological lifespan of non-dividing cells, while ectopic overexpression prolongs their lifespan, indicating that aal1 acts in trans. Overexpression of aal1 represses ribosomal-protein gene expression and inhibits cell growth, and aal1 genetically interacts with coding genes functioning in protein translation. The aal1 lncRNA localizes to the cytoplasm and associates with ribosomes. Notably, aal1 overexpression decreases the cellular ribosome content and inhibits protein translation. The aal1 lncRNA binds to the rpl1901 mRNA, encoding a ribosomal protein. The rpl1901 levels are reduced ~2-fold by aal1, which is sufficient to extend lifespan. Remarkably, the expression of the aal1 lncRNA in Drosophila boosts fly lifespan. We propose that aal1 reduces the ribosome content by decreasing Rpl1901 levels, thus attenuating the translational capacity and promoting longevity. Although aal1 is not conserved, its effect in flies suggests that animals feature related mechanisms that modulate ageing, based on the conserved translational machinery.
A new class of capsid-targeting inhibitors that specifically block HIV-1 nuclear import
Authors: Boulay Aude , Quevarec Emmanuel , Malet Isabelle , Nicastro Giuseppe , Chamontin Célia , Perrin Suzon , Henriquet Corinne , Pugnière Martine , Courgnaud Valérie , Blaise Mickaël , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Taylor Ian A , Chaloin Laurent , Arhel Nathalie J
Published: October 2024

HIV-1 capsids cross nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) by engaging with the nuclear import machinery. To identify compounds that inhibit HIV-1 nuclear import, we screened drugs in silico on a three-dimensional model of a CA hexamer bound by Transportin-1 (TRN-1). Among hits, compound H27 inhibited HIV-1 with a low micromolar IC50. Unlike other CA-targeting compounds, H27 did not alter CA assembly or disassembly, inhibited nuclear import specifically, and retained antiviral activity against PF74- and Lenacapavir-resistant mutants. The differential sensitivity of divergent primate lentiviral capsids, capsid stability and H27 escape mutants, together with structural analyses, suggest that H27 makes multiple low affinity contacts with assembled capsid. Interaction experiments indicate that H27 may act by preventing CA from engaging with components of the NPC machinery such as TRN-1. H27 exhibited good metabolic stability in vivo and was efficient against different subtypes and circulating recombinant forms from treatment-naïve patients as well as strains resistant to the four main classes of antiretroviral drugs. This work identifies compounds that demonstrate a novel mechanism of action by specifically blocking HIV-1 nuclear import.
Optoelectronic Polymers for Organic Light-emitting Diodes (OLEDs)
Authors: Tian Rundong , Gao Feifei , Xu Hui
Published: October 2024

This chapter summarizes recent advances in the development of optoelectronic polymers for applications in polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs). It discusses key polymer structures including poly(p-phenylene vinylene) derivatives, polyfluorenes, and copolymers integrating electron transporting oxadiazole units or metal complexes. Strategies for tuning the HOMO–LUMO levels, bandgaps, and singlet–triplet energy levels are highlighted along with their impact on PLED efficiency and color. The chapter covers the design of functional polymers for various layers including emission, transport, injection, and blocking layers. Device fabrication techniques like inkjet printing and transfer printing are mentioned. There is a focus on enhancing electron injection through side chain engineering of polymers. Inorganic–organic hybrid copolymers integrating silicon or transition metals are also summarized. Overall, the chapter showcases the versatility of polymers in facilitating high performance, color-tunable, cost-effective, and scalable PLEDs.
Polymeric Materials for Efficient Blue Light-emitting Devices
Authors: Su Ning , Ma Zhihua , Ding Junqiao
Published: October 2024

Conducting/semiconducting polymers feature an extended π-electron system in their main chains, enabling good conductivity and electroactivity. So they have great potential in solution processed blue lighting-emitting devices, such as polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs), quantum-dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) and perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs). This chapter summarizes the recent progress in polymeric materials, which are widely used as the emitting layer together with charge injection and transporting layers in these blue devices.
Photo-functional 2D Metal–Organic Frameworks for Photocatalytic Activation of Small Molecules
Authors: He Jun , Wu Can-Min , Chung Lai-Hon
Published: October 2024

Developing materials to achieve artificial photosynthesis is one of the most promising ways to tackle the energy crisis and promote sustainable technology. Metal–organic frameworks, arising from coordination chemistry and crystalline polymers, represent candidates with high potential to mimic natural processes. In this chapter, 2D MOFs are taken as examples to illustrate how chemists design approaches to pursue photocatalytic reactions resembling artificial photosynthesis. By going through the historical developments in this field, this chapter aims to remind the audience (probably upcoming great chemists) of our primitive mission – artificial photosynthesis – while also enriching the audience with some ideas on how to progress towards this goal.
Biomimetic light-harvesting antennas via the self-assembly of chemically programmed chlorophylls
Authors: Matsubara Shogo , Shoji Sunao , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: October 2024

This feature article describes strategies for constructing supramolecular aggregates of (semi)synthetic dyes, particularly chlorophyll derivatives to mimic the photosynthetic light-harvesting antennas.
Electrodeposition synthesis, controllable growth, and enhanced photoluminescence of activator-doped layered gadolinium hydroxide films
Authors: Huang Junjie , Guo Yongping , Qin Sen , Wu Xiaoli
Published: October 2024

LGdH:RE films were prepared via electrodeposition within 10 minutes, and their photoluminescence performance was optimized by proper annealing and anion exchange with MoO42−.
The critical role of aromatic residues in the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 fusion peptide to phospholipid bilayer membranes
Authors: Shen Hujun , Chen Ling , Yang Hengxiu
Published: October 2024

Based on the SARS-CoV-2 fusion peptide (FP) structure determined from the NMR experiment, we created six FP models under different environmental conditions to explore the effects of salt and cholesterol on FP–membrane binding.
Spin crossover FeIII complexes with a substituted Hqnal ligand: effects of anions and solvents
Authors: Chen Feng-Li , Liu Xin-Li , Zhao Yue , Li Gang , Gao Bo-Hong , Wang Xin-Yi
Published: October 2024

Four FeIII complexes of the Hqnal-5-Brq ligand have been characterized, marking them as the first examples of FeIII SCO complexes with a quinoline-substituted Hqnal ligand. The effects of anions and solvents on their SCO properties were assessed.
Efficient 1.77 eV-bandgap perovskite and all-perovskite tandem solar cells enabled by long-alkyl phosphonic acid
Authors: Guan Hongling , Fu Shiqiang , Zeng Guojun , Chen Weiqing , Wang Chen , Cui Hongsen , Pu Dexin , Jia Peng , Meng Weiwei , Fang Guojia , Ke Weijun
Published: October 2024

Incorporating dodecylphosphonic acid additives into 1.77 eV-bandgap perovskites enabled single-junction solar cells to achieve a PCE of 20.2%. Tandem cells further reached impressive PCEs of 27.41% (two-terminal) and 28.65% (four-terminal).
An innovative CuxAg50−x/UiO66-NH2 photocatalyst prepared using a dual ship bottling strategy for photocatalytic CO2 reduction: controlled product selectivity and pathways
Authors: Jiang Lipeng , Chen Dengqian , Hao Zhengkai , Cao Dongxue , Liu Runqiao , Cheng Jingyu , Chen Limei , Liu Xin , Jia Boyin , Liu Dongdong
Published: October 2024

This study proposed a “dual ship bottling” strategy to synthesize CuxAg50−x/UiO66-NH2, achieving over 90% selectivity for reduced carbon products.
Water-induced spinodal decomposition of mixed halide perovskite captured by real-time liquid TEM imaging
Authors: Folastre Nicolas , Akhavan Kazemi Mohammad Ali , Cherednichneko Kirill , Jamali Arash , Rousset Jean , Sauvage Frédéric , Demortière Arnaud
Published: October 2024

Segmented images showing the live degradation of CsMAFA particles in contact with water molecules. The formed particles are CsPb2Br5 and PbI2 resulting from the spinodal decomposition of perovskite before dissolution/recrystallization process.
Electrochemistry-enabled Rh-catalyzed regioselective [4 + 1] and [4 + 2] cycloaddition of benzoic acid with alkynyl esters/amides
Authors: Chiu Wei-Jung , Sun Chung-Ming
Published: October 2024

The reaction of benzoic acids with alkynyl esters/amides in the presence of a Rh-catalyst and AcOH as an additive to give phthalides by [4 + 1] annulation. In contrast, the additive NaOAc exclusively affords isocoumarins through the [4 + 2] pathway.
Graphene-based polymer composites in thermal management: materials, structures and applications
Authors: Liu Luqi , Xu Chenchen , Yang Yuequan , Fu Chao , Ma Fuliang , Zeng Zhixiang , Wang Gang
Published: October 2024

This review highlights advancements in the thermal management of graphene-based polymer composites, emphasizing material selection, preparation, modification, structural design, and innovative applications.
Design, synthesis and biological activity evaluation of novel allosteric inhibitors of the DENV NS2B–NS3 protease
Authors: Lv Huaijie , Lu Yu , Xin Xuanhe , Zhou Xinru , Yang Shan , Jia Dingyi , Ma Chao
Published: October 2024

The NS2B–NS3 protease has two inhibitor targets: the catalytic and allosteric sites. Leveraging the unique features of the allosteric site, two series of inhibitors were designed and synthesized based on the binding analysis of lead compounds.
Ni,S co-doped Cu dendrites decorated with core–shell architecture assisted by MOF and Fe0.92Co0.08S nanoflakes on nanocellulose/graphene fibers for fabrication of flexible wire-type micro-supercapacitor
Authors: Naderi Leila , Shahrokhian Saeed
Published: October 2024

A flexible 1D micro-SC was fabricated based on a multidimensional nanoarchitecture derived from MOF on foam-like microwires and FeCoS nanoflakes on nanocellulose/graphene fibers and exhibited high energy storage capability.
Enhancing blocking temperatures in {CrIII2DyIII2} butterfly SMMs: deciphering the role of exchange interactions and developing magneto-structural maps
Authors: Swain Abinash , Whyatt Yasmin L. , Wielechowski Daniel , Muthu Satheeshkumar , Benjamin Sophie L. , Murray Keith S. , Rajaraman Gopalan , Langley Stuart K.
Published: October 2024

Fourteen new {CrIII2DyIII2} butterfly complexes have been investigated for their single molecule magnetic properties by synthesis, crystal structures, DC and AC magnetic properties and detailed ab initio and density functional methods.
Effect of Polygonatum sibiricum on biological toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles during respiratory exposure
Authors: Yao Jingjing , Yang Wanqing , Tang Liang , Yang Dicheng , Xu Yan , Zhu Shenmin , Zhu Jun
Published: October 2024

ZnO-PS NPs are synthesized to reduce the pulmonary toxicity of inhaled ZnO NPs through attaching finer ZnO NPs and endowing them with the desirable antioxidant activity of the composites.
Enhanced adsorption of carbon sphere by doping with titania nanotubes for crystal violet removal: isotherm, kinetics, and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed M. E. , Kotb Ahmed , Sanad Moustafa M. S. , Abdel-Hakim Mohamed , Ahmed Abdelaal S. A.
Published: October 2024

In this study, the carbon sphere (Cs) has been prepared and modified by titania nanotubes (TNTs) to be utilized as an adsorbent toward crystal violet (CV) dye as a model for cationic dyes from aqueous solution.
Complex relaxation of trapped spin-states in spin crossover materials
Authors: Natt Nadeem , Powell Benjamin J.
Published: October 2024

Frustration and dynamic disorder give rugged free energy surface in spin-crossover materials, driving complex relaxation dynamics of trapped spin-states including; exponential, sigmoidal, stretched exponential, multi-modal, and multistep relaxation.
Proton transfer induced excited-state aromaticity gain for chromophores with maximal Stokes shifts
Authors: Xing Dong , Glöcklhofer Florian , Plasser Felix
Published: October 2024

This work introduces a new type of photophysical process, the generation of pronounced excited-state aromaticity via a proton transfer. The chromophores developed are distinguished by remarkable Stokes shifts.
Ketone-functionalized conjugated organic polymers boost red-light-driven molecular oxygen-mediated oxygenation
Authors: Zhang Hao , Yuan Tingting , Zhumabay Nursaya , Ruan Zhipeng , Qian Hai , Rueping Magnus
Published: October 2024

9-Fluorenone-functionalized conjugated organic polymers demonstrate high activity as metal free heterogeneous photocatalysts for red-light-excited oxygenation, using O2 as a green oxidant.
Overcoming the interfacial challenges of Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes for all-solid-state batteries through an ultrathin and amorphous Al2O3 coating
Authors: Shim Hun , Kim Hyun-seung , Jung Jae Yup , Kim Kyeong-Ho , Kim Hyung-Ho , Lee Eungjae , Lee Dongjun , Cho Woosuk , Hong Seong-Hyeon
Published: October 2024

An ultrathin and amorphous Al2O3 coating on Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes in all-solid-state batteries significantly enhanced the cycle life by mitigating interfacial degradation while maintaining Li-ion conductivity.
Boosting energy storage performance with lead-free relaxor ferroelectric in BNT-based ceramics via introducing scheelite La2WTiO8
Authors: Li Wenyuan , Xu Jianan , Chen Jia , Wei Yaxin , Li Kai , Chang Aimin , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2024

Combining the chalcocite structure with the scheelite structure reduces the domain size and leads to the formation of PNRs. And the introduction of LWT tunes the temperature region between Tf and Tb of the relaxing ferroelectrics to near RT.
n-Type redox-tuneable conducting polymer optical nanoantennas
Authors: Kazi Suraya , Bandaru Pravallika , Tang Haoran , Duan Yulong , Chen Shangzhi , Huang Fei , Jonsson Magnus P.
Published: October 2024

We show that the n-type conducting polymer PBFDO can be optically metallic for wavelengths above around 695 nm after post-treatment, and that nanostructures of the material can act as optical nanoantennas that are dynamically switchable.
Modelling and simulation of cloud‐native‐based edge computing terminals for power distribution
Authors: Zheng Junjie , Qu Jing , Cai Zexiang , Xue Ying , Li Xiaohua
Published: October 2024

The introduction of cloud‐native technology has significantly changed the architecture of applications and the mechanism for the collaborative operation of components in power distribution edge computing terminals (PDECT). To develop an effective quantitative analysis tool for PDECT performance, the composition and characteristics of cloud‐native PDECT are studied, and the modelling and simulation of cloud‐native PDECT are proposed. Subsequently, modelling is implemented through the simulation software CloudSim, achieving the simulation of microservices, containers, declarative configuration, and container orchestration with the consideration of power distribution scenarios. Then, by the proposed simulation scenario module, various elements of the power distribution scenarios can be self‐defined. Finally, by demonstrating the principles and implementation mechanisms of the proposed modelling method and simulation tool, and comparing simulation results for different service time ranges, access devices, resource configurations of PDECT, request occurrence rates, and resource scheduling strategies, the validity and effectiveness of the proposed modelling method and simulation tool are verified.
Impact of Digitalization in the Energy Sector on Energy Consumption
Authors: Amin Mohamed Hanan , Kaies Ali Dalia
Published: October 2024

The digital transformation in the energy sector has the potential to change the energy consumption patterns. The adoption of smart energy technologies is not always yielding positive impact on the energy consumption patterns which is highly determinant by the end-users’ behavior. The adoption of energy digitalization and enabling users to easily trace peak consumptions can trigger the motive to conserve energy. However, the prevalence of rebound backfire effect induced by the cost reduction accompanied by the enhanced energy efficiency is probable. This study examines the impact of energy digitalization in a sample of 29 developed countries by utilizing the OLS panel regression model with fixed-effect estimation during the period 1991-2021. The results confirmed the existence of a positive impact where an increase in the energy R&D by 1% yields an increase in energy consumption by 0.0039%. Despite of the limited size of potential rebound, it should be considered critically to avoid undesired policy consequences.
From Resource Curse to Resource Wealth: Energy and Economic Transformation for Sustainable Development
Authors: Joshia Lokesh , Singh Garima , Lyzhova Anna , Choriev Ruzimurat , Sattarova Elena , Kholmurodov Shukhrat
Published: October 2024

This study examines the complex relationship between the energy sector and economic development that poses challenges to sustainable development in resource-producing countries. We investigate the hypothesis that resource-rich developing and underdeveloped nations struggle to maximize the advantages of their crude oil reserves, ultimately experiencing the phenomenon known as the “resource curse”. The paper examines the need for developed countries to formulate new strategies to meet their domestic energy needs. The authors argue that industrialised countries can tap into resources from developing nations, but it is important to ensure that these nations benefit fairly. The research is based on the analysis of data on oil production, human development index (HDI) ranking, and GDP to debt ratio. We call for further research to develop effective policies that can address the relationship between energy and economic issues and propose future research directions to ensure that developing countries can benefit from their energy economies.