bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma metabolomic characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection
Authors: Li Xue , Liu Yimeng , Xu Guiying , Xie Yi , Wang Ximo , Wu Junping , Chen Huaiyong
Published: April 2023

Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 have spread rapidly worldwide; however, most infected patients have mild or no symptoms. This study aimed to understand the host response to Omicron infections by performing metabolomic profiling of plasma. We observed that Omicron infections triggered an inflammatory response and innate immune, and adaptive immunity was suppressed, including reduced T-cell response and immunoglobulin antibody production. Similar to the original SARS-CoV-2 strain circulating in 2019, the host developed an anti-inflammatory response and accelerated energy metabolism in response to Omicron infection. However, differential regulation of macrophage polarization and reduced neutrophil function has been observed in Omicron infections. Interferon-induced antiviral immunity was not as strong in Omicron infections as in the original SARS-CoV-2 infections. The host response to Omicron infections increased antioxidant capacity and liver detoxification more than in the original strain. Hence, these findings suggest that Omicron infections cause weaker inflammatory alterations and immune responses than the original SARS-CoV-2 strain.
Upregulation of KLK8 contributes to CUMS-induced hippocampal neuronal apoptosis by cleaving NCAM1
Authors: Xu Dan-Hong , Du Jian-Kui , Liu Shi-Yu , Zhang Hui , Yang Lu , Zhu Xiao-Yan , Liu Yu-Jian
Published: April 2023

Neuronal apoptosis has been well-recognized as a critical mediator in the pathogenesis of depressive disorders. Tissue kallikrein-related peptidase 8 (KLK8), a trypsin-like serine protease, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several psychiatric disorders. The present study aimed to explore the potential function of KLK8 in hippocampal neuronal cell apoptosis associated with depressive disorders in rodent models of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression. It was found that depression-like behavior in CUMS-induced mice was associated with hippocampal KLK8 upregulation. Transgenic overexpression of KLK8 exacerbated, whereas KLK8 deficiency attenuated CUMS-induced depression-like behaviors and hippocampal neuronal apoptosis. In HT22 murine hippocampal neuronal cells and primary hippocampal neurons, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of KLK8 (Ad-KLK8) was sufficient to induce neuron apoptosis. Mechanistically, it was identified that the neural cell adhesion molecule 1 (NCAM1) may associate with KLK8 in hippocampal neurons as KLK8 proteolytically cleaved the NCAM1 extracellular domain. Immunofluorescent staining exhibited decreased NCAM1 in hippocampal sections obtained from mice or rats exposed to CUMS. Transgenic overexpression of KLK8 exacerbated, whereas KLK8 deficiency largely prevented CUMS-induced loss of NCAM1 in the hippocampus. Both adenovirus-mediated overexpression of NCAM1 and NCAM1 mimetic peptide rescued KLK8-overexpressed neuron cells from apoptosis. Collectively, this study identified a new pro-apoptotic mechanism in the hippocampus during the pathogenesis of CUMS-induced depression via the upregulation of KLK8, and raised the possibility of KLK8 as a potential therapeutic target for depression.
Confusion around Certification of Vision Impairment (CVI) and registration processes—are patients falling through the cracks?
Authors: Pardhan Shahina , Driscoll Robin , Ingleton Hilary , Slade John , Bowen Michael , Lovell-Patel Rupal , Farrell Sarah , Bourne Rupert , Mahoney Simon , Ahluwalia Sanjiv , Trott Mike
Published: April 2023

Background

In the UK, the Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) certifies a person as sight impaired (partially sighted) or severely sight impaired (blind). This is completed by ophthalmologists and passed with the patient’s consent to their GP, their local authority, and The Royal College of Ophthalmologists Certifications office. Once a person is certified, they can be registered by their local authority which is voluntary but enables the person to access rehabilitation or habitation services, financial concessions, welfare benefits and other services provided by local authorities.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 17 patients with a diagnosed eye condition, 4 Eye Clinic Liaison Officers (ECLO) and 4 referring optometrists around their experiences around CVI and registration processes. Analysis of themes was conducted with results synthesised in a narrative analysis.

Results

Patients reported lack of clarity around the processes of certification and registration, benefits of certification and what happens beyond certification, the type of support that they are entitled to, delays in accessing support. Optometrists appear not to engage with the process much, especially if the patient is being treated by the hospital eye service.

Conclusion

Vision loss can be a devastating experience for the patient. There is a lack of information and confusion around the process. The lack of a joined-up process between certification and registration needs to be addressed if we are to provide the support that patients deserve in order to improve their quality of life and wellbeing.
Association between lifestyle habits and glaucoma incidence: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Fujita Asahi , Hashimoto Yohei , Matsui Hiroki , Yasunaga Hideo , Aihara Makoto
Published: April 2023

Background/Objectives

Although lifestyle habits may represent modifiable risk factors of glaucoma, the association between lifestyle factors and glaucoma is not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between lifestyle habits and the development of glaucoma.

Subjects/Methods

Participants who underwent health check-ups from 2005 to 2020 using a large-scale administrative claims database in Japan were included in the study. Cox regression analyses were performed where glaucoma development was regressed on the lifestyle (body mass index, current smoking, frequency and amount of alcohol consumption, eating habits, exercise habits and quality of sleep), age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia.

Results

Among the 3,110,743 eligible individuals, 39,975 developed glaucoma during the mean follow-up of 2058 days. Factors associated with increased risk of glaucoma were overweight/obese (vs. moderate weight: hazard ratio, 1.04 [95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.07]), alcohol consumption of 2.5–4.9 units/day, 5–7.4 units/day, and ≥7.5 units/day (vs. <2.5 units/day: 1.05 [1.02–1.08], 1.05 [1.01–1.08] and 1.06 [1.01–1.12], respectively), skipping breakfast (1.14 [1.10–1.17]), late dinner (1.05 [1.03-1.08]) and daily walking of 1 h (1.14 [1.11–1.16]). Factors associated with decreased risk of glaucoma were daily alcohol consumption (vs. rarely: 0.94 [0.91–0.97]) and regular exercise (0.92 [0.90–0.95]).

Conclusions

Moderate body mass index, having breakfast, avoiding late dinner, limiting alcohol intake to <2.5 units/day, and regular exercise were associated with a reduced risk of developing glaucoma in the Japanese population. These findings may be useful for promoting glaucoma prophylaxis.
Observation of phonon Poiseuille flow in isotopically purified graphite ribbons
Authors: Huang Xin , Guo Yangyu , Wu Yunhui , Masubuchi Satoru , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Zhang Zhongwei , Volz Sebastian , Machida Tomoki , Nomura Masahiro
Published: April 2023

In recent times, the unique collective transport physics of phonon hydrodynamics motivates theoreticians and experimentalists to explore it in micro- and nanoscale and at elevated temperatures. Graphitic materials have been predicted to facilitate hydrodynamic heat transport with their intrinsically strong normal scattering. However, owing to the experimental difficulties and vague theoretical understanding, the observation of phonon Poiseuille flow in graphitic systems remains challenging. In this study, based on a microscale experimental platform and the pertinent occurrence criterion in anisotropic solids, we demonstrate the existence of the phonon Poiseuille flow in a 5.5 μm-wide, suspended and isotopically purified graphite ribbon up to a temperature of 90 K. Our observation is well supported by our theoretical model based on a kinetic theory with fully first-principles inputs. Thus, this study paves the way for deeper insight into phonon hydrodynamics and cutting-edge heat manipulating applications.
Disrupting the α-synuclein-ESCRT interaction with a peptide inhibitor mitigates neurodegeneration in preclinical models of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Nim Satra , O’Hara Darren M. , Corbi-Verge Carles , Perez-Riba Albert , Fujisawa Kazuko , Kapadia Minesh , Chau Hien , Albanese Federica , Pawar Grishma , De Snoo Mitchell L. , Ngana Sophie G. , Kim Jisun , El-Agnaf Omar M. A. , Rennella Enrico , Kay Lewis E. , Kalia Suneil K. , Kalia Lorraine V. , Kim Philip M.
Published: April 2023

Accumulation of α-synuclein into toxic oligomers or fibrils is implicated in dopaminergic neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease. Here we performed a high-throughput, proteome-wide peptide screen to identify protein-protein interaction inhibitors that reduce α-synuclein oligomer levels and their associated cytotoxicity. We find that the most potent peptide inhibitor disrupts the direct interaction between the C-terminal region of α-synuclein and CHarged Multivesicular body Protein 2B (CHMP2B), a component of the Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport-III (ESCRT-III). We show that α-synuclein impedes endolysosomal activity via this interaction, thereby inhibiting its own degradation. Conversely, the peptide inhibitor restores endolysosomal function and thereby decreases α-synuclein levels in multiple models, including female and male human cells harboring disease-causing α-synuclein mutations. Furthermore, the peptide inhibitor protects dopaminergic neurons from α-synuclein-mediated degeneration in hermaphroditic C. elegans and preclinical Parkinson’s disease models using female rats. Thus, the α-synuclein-CHMP2B interaction is a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders.
A VEL3 histone deacetylase complex establishes a maternal epigenetic state controlling progeny seed dormancy
Authors: Chen Xiaochao , MacGregor Dana R. , Stefanato Francesca L. , Zhang Naichao , Barros-Galvão Thiago , Penfield Steven
Published: April 2023

Mother plants play an important role in the control of dormancy and dispersal characters of their progeny. In Arabidopsis seed dormancy is imposed by the embryo-surrounding tissues of the endosperm and seed coat. Here we show that VERNALIZATION5/VIN3-LIKE 3 (VEL3) maintains maternal control over progeny seed dormancy by establishing an epigenetic state in the central cell that primes the depth of primary seed dormancy later established during seed maturation. VEL3 colocalises with MSI1 in the nucleolus and associates with a histone deacetylase complex. Furthermore, VEL3 preferentially associates with pericentromeric chromatin and is required for deacetylation and H3K27me3 deposition established in the central cell. The epigenetic state established by maternal VEL3 is retained in mature seeds, and controls seed dormancy in part through repression of programmed cell death-associated gene ORE1. Our data demonstrates a mechanism by which maternal control of progeny seed physiology persists post-shedding, maintaining parental control of seed behaviour.
Identification of d-arabinan-degrading enzymes in mycobacteria
Authors: Al-Jourani Omar , Benedict Samuel T. , Ross Jennifer , Layton Abigail J. , van der Peet Phillip , Marando Victoria M. , Bailey Nicholas P. , Heunis Tiaan , Manion Joseph , Mensitieri Francesca , Franklin Aaron , Abellon-Ruiz Javier , Oram Sophia L. , Parsons Lauren , Cartmell Alan , Wright Gareth S. A. , Baslé Arnaud , Trost Matthias , Henrissat Bernard , Munoz-Munoz Jose , Hirt Robert P. , Kiessling Laura L. , Lovering Andrew L. , Williams Spencer J. , Lowe Elisabeth C. , Moynihan Patrick J.
Published: April 2023

Bacterial cell growth and division require the coordinated action of enzymes that synthesize and degrade cell wall polymers. Here, we identify enzymes that cleave the d-arabinan core of arabinogalactan, an unusual component of the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacteria. We screened 14 human gut-derived Bacteroidetes for arabinogalactan-degrading activities and identified four families of glycoside hydrolases with activity against the d-arabinan or d-galactan components of arabinogalactan. Using one of these isolates with exo-d-galactofuranosidase activity, we generated enriched d-arabinan and used it to identify a strain of Dysgonomonas gadei as a d-arabinan degrader. This enabled the discovery of endo- and exo-acting enzymes that cleave d-arabinan, including members of the DUF2961 family (GH172) and a family of glycoside hydrolases (DUF4185/GH183) that display endo-d-arabinofuranase activity and are conserved in mycobacteria and other microbes. Mycobacterial genomes encode two conserved endo-d-arabinanases with different preferences for the d-arabinan-containing cell wall components arabinogalactan and lipoarabinomannan, suggesting they are important for cell wall modification and/or degradation. The discovery of these enzymes will support future studies into the structure and function of the mycobacterial cell wall.
Vaccination of SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals expands a broad range of clonally diverse affinity-matured B cell lineages
Authors: Chernyshev Mark , Sakharkar Mrunal , Connor Ruth I. , Dugan Haley L. , Sheward Daniel J. , Rappazzo C. G. , Stålmarck Aron , Forsell Mattias N. E. , Wright Peter F. , Corcoran Martin , Murrell Ben , Walker Laura M. , Karlsson Hedestam Gunilla B.
Published: April 2023

Vaccination of SARS-CoV-2 convalescent individuals generates broad and potent antibody responses. Here, we isolate 459 spike-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) from two individuals who were infected with the index variant of SARS-CoV-2 and later boosted with mRNA-1273. We characterize mAb genetic features by sequence assignments to the donors’ personal immunoglobulin genotypes and assess antibody neutralizing activities against index SARS-CoV-2, Beta, Delta, and Omicron variants. The mAbs used a broad range of immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) V genes in the response to all sub-determinants of the spike examined, with similar characteristics observed in both donors. IGH repertoire sequencing and B cell lineage tracing at longitudinal time points reveals extensive evolution of SARS-CoV-2 spike-binding antibodies from acute infection until vaccination five months later. These results demonstrate that highly polyclonal repertoires of affinity-matured memory B cells are efficiently recalled by vaccination, providing a basis for the potent antibody responses observed in convalescent persons following vaccination.
Temperature sensitive liposome based cancer nanomedicine enables tumour lymph node immune microenvironment remodelling
Authors: Fu Shunli , Chang Lili , Liu Shujun , Gao Tong , Sang Xiao , Zhang Zipeng , Mu Weiwei , Liu Xiaoqing , Liang Shuang , Yang Han , Yang Huizhen , Ma Qingping , Liu Yongjun , Zhang Na
Published: April 2023

Targeting tumour immunosuppressive microenvironment is a crucial strategy in immunotherapy. However, the critical role of the tumour lymph node (LN) immune microenvironment (TLIME) in the tumour immune homoeostasis is often ignored. Here, we present a nanoinducer, NIL-IM-Lip, that remodels the suppressed TLIME via simultaneously mobilizing T and NK cells. The temperature-sensitive NIL-IM-Lip is firstly delivered to tumours, then directed to the LNs following pH-sensitive shedding of NGR motif and MMP2-responsive release of IL-15. IR780 and 1-MT induces immunogenic cell death and suppress regulatory T cells simultaneously during photo-thermal stimulation. We demonstrate that combining NIL-IM-Lip with anti-PD-1 significantly enhances the effectiveness of T and NK cells, leading to greatly suppressed tumour growth in both hot and cold tumour models, with complete response in some instances. Our work thus highlights the critical role of TLIME in immunotherapy and provides proof of principle to combine LN targeting with immune checkpoint blockade in cancer immunotherapy.
Utilizing cell-free DNA to predict risk of developing brain metastases in patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Vidula Neelima , Niemierko Andrzej , Hesler Katherine , Ryan Lianne , Moy Beverly , Isakoff Steven , Ellisen Leif , Juric Dejan , Bardia Aditya
Published: April 2023

We compared cell-free DNA (cfDNA) results at MBC diagnosis in patients who developed brain metastases (BM) vs those without (non-BM) to understand genomic predictors of BM. Patients with cfDNA testing at MBC diagnosis (Guardant360®, 73 gene next generation sequencing) were identified. Clinical and genomic features of BM and non-BM were compared (Pearson’s/Wilcoxon rank sum tests). Eighteen of 86 patients (21%) with cfDNA at MBC diagnosis developed BM. Comparing BM vs non-BM, a higher prevalence of BRCA2 (22% vs 4.4%, p = 0.01), APC (11% vs 0%, p = 0.005), CDKN2A (11% vs 1.5%, p = 0.05), and SMAD4 (11% vs 1.5%, p = 0.05) was observed. Seven of 18 BM had ≥1 of the following 4 mutations in baseline cfDNA: APC, BRCA2, CDKN2A or SMAD4 vs 5/68 non-BM (p = 0.001). Absence of this genomic pattern had a high negative predictive value (85%) and specificity (93%) in excluding BM development. Baseline genomic profile varies in MBC that develops BM.
Degradation analysis of tribologically loaded carbon nanotubes and carbon onions
Authors: MacLucas T. , Grützmacher P. , Husmann S. , Schmauch J. , Keskin S. , Suarez S. , Presser V. , Gachot C. , Mücklich F.
Published: April 2023

Coating laser-patterned stainless-steel surfaces with carbon nanotubes (CNT) or carbon onions (CO) forms a tribological system that provides effective solid lubrication. Lubricant retention represents the fundamental mechanism of this system, as storing the particles inside the pattern prevents lubricant depletion in the contact area. In previous works, we used direct laser interference patterning to create line patterns with three different structural depths on AISI 304 stainless-steel platelets. Electrophoretic deposition subsequently coated the patterned surfaces with either CNTs or COs. Ball-on-disc friction tests were conducted to study the effect of structural depth on the solid lubricity of as-described surfaces. The results demonstrated that the shallower the textures, the lower the coefficient of friction, regardless of the applied particle type. This follow-up study examines the carbon nanoparticles’ structural degradation after friction testing on substrates patterned with different structural depths (0.24, 0.36, and 0.77 µm). Raman characterization shows severe degradation of both particle types and is used to classify their degradation state within Ferrari’s three-stage amorphization model. It was further shown that improving CNT lubricity translates into increasing particle defectivity. This is confirmed by electron microscopy, which shows decreasing crystalline domains. Compared to CNTs, CO-derived tribofilms show even more substantial structural degradation.
A 3D printable alloy designed for extreme environments
Authors: Smith Timothy M. , Kantzos Christopher A. , Zarkevich Nikolai A. , Harder Bryan J. , Heczko Milan , Gradl Paul R. , Thompson Aaron C. , Mills Michael J. , Gabb Timothy P. , Lawson John W.
Published: April 2023

Multiprincipal-element alloys are an enabling class of materials owing to their impressive mechanical and oxidation-resistant properties, especially in extreme environments1,2. Here we develop a new oxide-dispersion-strengthened NiCoCr-based alloy using a model-driven alloy design approach and laser-based additive manufacturing. This oxide-dispersion-strengthened alloy, called GRX-810, uses laser powder bed fusion to disperse nanoscale Y2O3 particles throughout the microstructure without the use of resource-intensive processing steps such as mechanical or in situ alloying3,4. We show the successful incorporation and dispersion of nanoscale oxides throughout the GRX-810 build volume via high-resolution characterization of its microstructure. The mechanical results of GRX-810 show a twofold improvement in strength, over 1,000-fold better creep performance and twofold improvement in oxidation resistance compared with the traditional polycrystalline wrought Ni-based alloys used extensively in additive manufacturing at 1,093 °C5,6. The success of this alloy highlights how model-driven alloy designs can provide superior compositions using far fewer resources compared with the ‘trial-and-error’ methods of the past. These results showcase how future alloy development that leverages dispersion strengthening combined with additive manufacturing processing can accelerate the discovery of revolutionary materials.
Interactions between the lipidome and genetic and environmental factors in autism
Authors: Yap Chloe X. , Henders Anjali K. , Alvares Gail A. , Giles Corey , Huynh Kevin , Nguyen Anh , Wallace Leanne , McLaren Tiana , Yang Yuanhao , Hernandez Leanna M. , Gandal Michael J. , Hansell Narelle K. , Cleary Dominique , Grove Rachel , Hafekost Claire , Harun Alexis , Holdsworth Helen , Jellett Rachel , Khan Feroza , Lawson Lauren P. , Leslie Jodie , Levis Frenk Mira , Masi Anne , Mathew Nisha E. , Muniandy Melanie , Nothard Michaela , Miller Jessica L. , Nunn Lorelle , Strike Lachlan T. , Cadby Gemma , Moses Eric K. ,   The Busselton Health Study Investigators, Hung Joseph , Hui Jennie , Beilby John , de Zubicaray Greig I. , Thompson Paul M. , McMahon Katie L. , Wright Margaret J. , Visscher Peter M. , Dawson Paul A. , Dissanayake Cheryl , Eapen Valsamma , Heussler Helen S. , Whitehouse Andrew J. O. , Meikle Peter J. , Wray Naomi R. , Gratten Jacob
Published: April 2023

Autism omics research has historically been reductionist and diagnosis centric, with little attention paid to common co-occurring conditions (for example, sleep and feeding disorders) and the complex interplay between molecular profiles and neurodevelopment, genetics, environmental factors and health. Here we explored the plasma lipidome (783 lipid species) in 765 children (485 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)) within the Australian Autism Biobank. We identified lipids associated with ASD diagnosis (n = 8), sleep disturbances (n = 20) and cognitive function (n = 8) and found that long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids may causally contribute to sleep disturbances mediated by the FADS gene cluster. We explored the interplay of environmental factors with neurodevelopment and the lipidome, finding that sleep disturbances and unhealthy diet have a convergent lipidome profile (with potential mediation by the microbiome) that is also independently associated with poorer adaptive function. In contrast, ASD lipidome differences were accounted for by dietary differences and sleep disturbances. We identified a large chr19p13.2 copy number variant genetic deletion spanning the LDLR gene and two high-confidence ASD genes (ELAVL3 and SMARCA4) in one child with an ASD diagnosis and widespread low-density lipoprotein-related lipidome derangements. Lipidomics captures the complexity of neurodevelopment, as well as the biological effects of conditions that commonly affect quality of life among autistic people.
Clinical implications of choroidal vascular brightness using ultra-widefield indocyanine green angiography in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy
Authors: Jeong Areum , Yao Xue , Lee Kyungmin , Park Sang Hyun , Sagong Min
Published: April 2023

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is characterized by choroidal vascular abnormalities including polypoidal lesion and branching vascular networks. Not only choroidal structural changes, but also choroidal hyperpermeability and congestion are also thought to be involved in pathogenesis of PCV. We investigated choroidal vascular brightness intensity (CVB) using ultra-widefield indocyanine green angiography (UWF-ICGA) images and analyzed its association with clinical features in patients with PCV. In this study, 33 eyes with PCV and 27 eyes of age-matched controls were included. CVB was measured by extracting the enhanced pixels of choroidal vessels after the reference brightness across the images was adjusted to be uniform. Associations between choroidal vascular features and the clinical features of PCV were also determined. The mean CVB was higher in PCV than control eyes, regardless of the segmented region (all p < 0.001). CVB was also higher at the posterior pole than at the periphery, and the inferior quadrants were brighter than the superior quadrants in both the PCV and control group (all p < 0.05). In affected eyes, CVB was higher than in unaffected fellow eyes at the posterior pole, whereas there was no difference at the periphery. Posterior pole CVB correlated significantly with subfoveal choroidal thickness (r = 0.502, p = 0.005), polyp number (r = 0.366 p = 0.030), and the greatest linear dimension (r = 0.680, p = 0.040). Greatest linear dimension was positively correlated with CVB at posterior pole (p = 0.040), whereas SFCT or CVD in all regions didn't show the significant correlation. The UWF ICGA results showed an increase in CVB at the inferior quadrants and posterior pole, suggesting venous outflow congestion in PCV eyes. CVB might provide more substantial information on the phenotype than other choroidal vascular features.
The impact of selected abiotic factors on Artemia hatching process through real-time observation of oxygen changes in a microfluidic platform
Authors: Dey Preyojon , Bradley Terence M. , Boymelgreen Alicia
Published: April 2023

Current studies on abiotic impacts on Artemia, a crustacean which is widely used in aquaculture, and ecotoxicology, often focus on endpoint analysis (e.g., hatching rates, survival). Here, we demonstrate that a mechanistic understanding can be obtained through measurement of oxygen consumption in real-time over an extended time period in a microfluidic platform. The platform enables high level control of the microenvironment and direct observation of morphological changes. As a demonstration, temperature and salinity are chosen to represent critical abiotic parameters that are also threatened by climate change. The hatching process of Artemia consists of four different stages: hydration, differentiation, emergence, and hatching. Different temperatures (20, 35, and 30 °C) and salinities (0, 25, 50, and 75 ppt) are shown to significantly alter the duration of hatching stages, metabolic rates, and hatchability. Specifically, the metabolic resumption of dormant Artemia cysts was significantly enhanced at higher temperatures and moderate salinity, however, the time needed for this resumption was only dependent on higher temperatures. Hatchability was inversely related to the duration of the differentiation stage of hatching, which persisted longer at lower temperatures and salinities. The current approach of investigation of metabolism and corresponding physical changes can be employed to study hatching processes of other aquatic species, even those with low metabolic rate.
Modified minimum principal stress estimation formula based on Hoek–Brown criterion and equivalent Mohr–Coulomb strength parameters
Authors: Song Yanhui , Feng Man , Chen Peng
Published: April 2023

The most critical parameter for determining equivalent values for the Mohr–Coulomb friction angle and cohesion from the nonlinear Hoek–Brown criterion is the upper limit of confining stress. For rock slopes, this value is the maximum value of the minimum principal stress ($$\sigma_{3,\max }^{\prime }$$

σ

3
,
max

′

) on the potential failure surface. The existing problems in the existing research are analyzed and summarized. Using the finite element method (FEM), the location of potential failure surfaces for a wide range of slope geometries and rock mass properties are calculated using the strength reduction method, and a corresponding finite element elastic stress analysis was carried in order to determine $$\sigma_{3,\max }^{\prime }$$

σ

3
,
max

′

of the failure surface. Through a systematic analysis of 425 different slopes, it is found that slope angle (β) and geological strength index (GSI) have the most significant influence on $$\sigma_{3,\max }^{\prime }$$

σ

3
,
max

′

while the influence of intact rock strength and the material constant $$m_{i}$$

m
i

are relatively small. According to the variation of $$\sigma_{3,\max }^{\prime }$$

σ

3
,
max

′

with different factors, two new formulas for estimating $$\sigma_{3,\max }^{\prime }$$

σ

3
,
max

′

are proposed. Finally, the proposed two equations were applied to 31 real case studies to illustrate the applicability and validity.
Fe3O4@nano-almondshell/Si(CH2)3/2-(1-piperazinyl)ethylamine as an effective magnetite almond shell-based nanocatalyst for the synthesis of dihydropyrano[3,2-c]chromene and tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyran derivatives
Authors: Mallah Dina , Mirjalili Bi Bi Fatemeh , Bamoniri Abdolhamid
Published: April 2023

The preparation and design of nano-catalysts based on magnetic biopolymers as green and biocompatible nano-catalysts have made many advances. This paper deals with the preparation of magnetite biopolymer-based Brønsted base nano-catalyst from a nano-almond (Prunus dulcis) shell. This magnetite biopolymer-based nano-catalyst was obtained through a simple process based on the core-shelling of nano-almond shell and Fe3O4NPs and then the immobilization of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane as linker and 2-aminoethylpiperazine as a basic section. Structural and morphological analysis of this magnetite biopolymer-based nano-catalyst were done using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Thermogravimetric analysis, Vibrating sample magnetization, Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, and Transmission electron microscopy techniques. The performance of the synthesized Fe3O4@nano-almondshell/Si(CH2)3/2-(1-piperazinyl)ethylamine as a novel magnetite biopolymer-based nano-catalyst for the synthesis of dihydropyrano[3,2-c]chromene and tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyran was investigated and showed excellent efficiency.
Qualitative study on diabetic cutaneous wound healing with radiation crosslinked bilayer collagen scaffold in rat model
Authors: Li Hongwei , Chen Xin , Ren Kang , Wu Lihao , Chen Gong , Xu Ling
Published: April 2023

Diabetes may leave patients more prone to skin problems, and minor skin conditions can more easily turn into serious damage to the extracellular matrix, which further impairs the skin's mechanical properties and delays wound healing. Therefore, the aim of the work is to develop extracellular matrix substitution to remodel the mechanical properties of diabetic cutaneous wound and thus accelerate diabetic wound healing. A green fabrication approach was used to prepare radiation crosslinked bilayer collagen scaffold from collagen dispersion. The morphological, mechanical and swelling characteristics of radiation crosslinked bilayer collagen scaffold were assessed to be suitable for cutaneous wound remodeling. The feasibility of radiation crosslinked bilayer collagen scaffold was performed on full-skin defect of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The tissue specimens were harvested after 7, 14, and 21 days. Histopathological analysis showed that radiation crosslinked bilayer collagen scaffold has beneficial effects on inducing skin regeneration and remodeling in diabetic rats. In addition, immunohistochemical staining further revealed that the radiation crosslinked bilayer collagen scaffold could not only significantly accelerate the diabetic wound healing, but also promote angiogenesis factor (CD31) production. Vascularization was observed as early as day 7. The work expands the therapeutic ideas for cutaneous wound healing in diabetes.
Clinical results of autologous protein solution injection for knee osteoarthritis with severe disease grade is inferior to mild or moderate grade
Authors: Kuwasawa Ayano , Okazaki Ken , Noda Kuniko , Nihei Kotaro
Published: April 2023

Autologous protein solution (APS) is made from platelet-rich plasma that extracts high-concentration growth factors and cytokines. Intra-articular APS injection was reported to improve knee osteoarthritis (KOA) pain and function. However, efficacy differences regarding osteoarthritis severity remained unknown. This retrospective study clinically assessed 220 knees with KOA in the Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grades 2–4 that underwent APS injection using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). A telephone survey was performed for patients who dropped out to check symptom changes. The recalculated estimated responder rate included the telephone survey results. The 12-month follow-up was completed with 148 knees (67%), whereas 72 knees dropped out. The follow-up rate was significantly lower in KL4 than KL2 and 3. The KOOS significantly improved in 148 knees, whereas the KOOS was lower in KL4 than in KL2. The responder rate was 55% total, 58% in KL2, 57% in KL3, and 47% in KL4; however, the estimated responder rate, including the telephone survey, was 49% total, 55% in KL2, 54% in KL3, and 36% in KL4. This study showed improved clinical symptoms 1-year after APS injections for KOA, with a lower responder rate in KL4 than in KL2 or KL3.
Eardrum-inspired soft viscoelastic diaphragms for CNN-based speech recognition with audio visualization images
Authors: Park Seok-Jin , Lee Hee-Beom , Kim Gi-Woo
Published: April 2023

In this study, we present initial efforts for a new speech recognition approach aimed at producing different input images for convolutional neural network (CNN)-based speech recognition. We explored the potential of the tympanic membrane (eardrum)-inspired viscoelastic membrane-type diaphragms to deliver audio visualization images using a cross-recurrence plot (CRP). These images were formed by the two phase-shifted vibration responses of viscoelastic diaphragms. We expect this technique to replace the fast Fourier transform (FFT) spectrum currently used for speech recognition. Herein, we report that the new creation method of color images enabled by combining two phase-shifted vibration responses of viscoelastic diaphragms with CRP shows a lower computation burden and a promising potential alternative way to STFT (conventional spectrogram) when the image resolution (pixel size) is below critical resolution.
LipidOz enables automated elucidation of lipid carbon–carbon double bond positions from ozone-induced dissociation mass spectrometry data
Authors: Ross Dylan H. , Lee Joon-Yong , Bilbao Aivett , Orton Daniel J. , Eder Josie G. , Burnet Meagan C. , Deatherage Kaiser Brooke L. , Kyle Jennifer E. , Zheng Xueyun
Published: April 2023

Lipids play essential roles in many biological processes and disease pathology, but unambiguous identification of lipids is complicated by the presence of multiple isomeric species differing by fatty acyl chain length, stereospecifically numbered (sn) position, and position/stereochemistry of double bonds. Conventional liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analyses enable the determination of fatty acyl chain lengths (and in some cases sn position) and number of double bonds, but not carbon-carbon double bond positions. Ozone-induced dissociation (OzID) is a gas-phase oxidation reaction that produces characteristic fragments from lipids containing double bonds. OzID can be incorporated into ion mobility spectrometry (IMS)-MS instruments for the structural characterization of lipids, including additional isomer separation and confident assignment of double bond positions. The complexity and repetitive nature of OzID data analysis and lack of software tool support have limited the application of OzID for routine lipidomics studies. Here, we present an open-source Python tool, LipidOz, for the automated determination of lipid double bond positions from OzID-IMS-MS data, which employs a combination of traditional automation and deep learning approaches. Our results demonstrate the ability of LipidOz to robustly assign double bond positions for lipid standard mixtures and complex lipid extracts, enabling practical application of OzID for future lipidomics.
Effect of aliovalent bismuth substitution on structure and optical properties of CsSnBr3
Authors: Chaudhary Madhusudan , Karmakar Abhoy , Mishra Vidyanshu , Bhattacharya Amit , Mumbaraddi Dundappa , Mar Arthur , Michaelis Vladimir K.
Published: April 2023

Aliovalent substitution of the B component in ABX3 metal halides has often been proposed to modify the band gap and thus the photovoltaic properties, but details about the resulting structure have remained largely unknown. Here, we examine these effects in Bi-substituted CsSnBr3. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and solid-state 119Sn, 133Cs and 209Bi nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were carried out to infer how Bi substitution changes the structure of these compounds. The cubic perovskite structure is preserved upon Bi-substitution, but with disorder in the B site occurring at the atomic level. Bi atoms are randomly distributed as they substitute for Sn atoms with no evidence of Bi segregation. The absorption edge in the optical spectra shifts from 1.8 to 1.2 eV upon Bi-substitution, maintaining a direct band gap according to electronic structure calculations. It is shown that Bi-substitution improves resistance to degradation by inhibiting the oxidation of Sn.
Rapid differentiation of soil and root microbiomes in response to plant composition and biodiversity in the field
Authors: Burrill Haley M , Wang Guangzhou , Bever James D
Published: April 2023

Research suggests that microbiomes play a major role in structuring plant communities and influencing ecosystem processes, however, the relative roles and strength of change of microbial components have not been identified. We measured the response of fungal, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF), bacteria, and oomycete composition 4 months after planting of field plots that varied in plant composition and diversity. Plots were planted using 18 prairie plant species from three plant families (Poaceae, Fabaceae, and Asteraceae) in monoculture, 2, 3, or 6 species richness mixtures and either species within multiple families or one family. Soil cores were collected and homogenized per plot and DNA were extracted from soil and roots of each plot. We found that all microbial groups responded to the planting design, indicating rapid microbiome response to plant composition. Fungal pathogen communities were strongly affected by plant diversity. We identified OTUs from genera of putatively pathogenic fungi that increased with plant family, indicating likely pathogen specificity. Bacteria were strongly differentiated by plant family in roots but not soil. Fungal pathogen diversity increased with planted species richness, while oomycete diversity, as well as bacterial diversity in roots, decreased. AMF differentiation in roots was detected with individual plant species, but not plant family or richness. Fungal saprotroph composition differentiated between plant family composition in plots, providing evidence for decomposer home-field advantage. The observed patterns are consistent with rapid microbiome differentiation with plant composition, which could generate rapid feedbacks on plant growth in the field, thereby potentially influencing plant community structure, and influence ecosystem processes. These findings highlight the importance of native microbial inoculation in restoration.
The effect of wheat genotype on the microbiome is more evident in roots and varies through time
Authors: Quiza Liliana , Tremblay Julien , Pagé Antoine P , Greer Charles W , Pozniak Curtis J , Li Rong , Haug Brenda , Hemmingsen Sean M , St-Arnaud Marc , Yergeau Etienne
Published: April 2023

Crop breeding has traditionally ignored the plant-associated microbial communities. Considering the interactions between plant genotype and associated microbiota is of value since different genotypes of the same crop often harbor distinct microbial communities which can influence the plant phenotype. However, recent studies have reported contrasting results, which led us to hypothesize that the effect of genotype is constrained by growth stages, sampling year and plant compartment. To test this hypothesis, we sampled bulk soil, rhizosphere soil and roots of 10 field-grown wheat genotypes, twice per year, for 4 years. DNA was extracted and regions of the bacterial 16 S rRNA and CPN60 genes and the fungal ITS region were amplified and sequenced. The effect of genotype was highly contingent on the time of sampling and on the plant compartment sampled. Only for a few sampling dates, were the microbial communities significantly different across genotypes. The effect of genotype was most often significant for root microbial communities. The three marker genes used provided a highly coherent picture of the effect of genotype. Taken together, our results confirm that microbial communities in the plant environment strongly vary across compartments, growth stages, and years, and that this can mask the effect of genotype.
Selenium-incorporated mesoporous silica nanoparticles for osteosarcoma therapy
Authors: He Lei , Habibovic Pamela , van Rijt Sabine
Published: April 2023

Se-incorporated MSNs were synthesized by loading SeO32−, doping SeO32−, and incorporating SeNP into MSNs. Se-incorporated MSNs showed GSH/NADPH sensitive Se release, selective OS cell inhibition and ROS induction.
Transient and dry recycling of battery materials with negligible carbon footprint and roll-to-roll scalability
Authors: Zhang Hao , Ji Yongsheng , Yao Yonggang , Qie Long , Cheng Zhiheng , Ma Zhihao , Qian Xin , Yang Ronggui , Li Chenghang , Guo Yaqing , Yuan Yifei , Xiao Haoyu , Yang Haiping , Ma Jing , Lu Jun , Huang Yunhui
Published: April 2023

This work introduces a transient heating method for direct recycling of battery materials with outstanding efficiency, sustainability, and scalability.
Natural multi-osmolyte cocktails form deep eutectic systems of unprecedented complexity: discovery, affordances and perspectives
Authors: Cvjetko Bubalo Marina , Andreou Thanos , Panić Manuela , Radović Mia , Radošević Kristina , Radojčić Redovniković Ivana
Published: April 2023

Tracking osmolyte patterns in biological contexts can help design novel multicomponent deep eutectic systems, which mimic the nuanced microenvironment of biomacromolecules operating within these biological contexts.
Spin transfer torques due to the bulk states of topological insulators
Authors: Cullen James H. , Atencia Rhonald Burgos , Culcer Dimitrie
Published: April 2023

We determine the spin transfer torque due to TI bulk states, showing that it has a distinguishable signature and can be sizeable in real samples.
Synthesis of transition metal doped lanthanum silicate oxyapatites by a facile co-precipitation method and their evaluation as solid oxide fuel cell electrolytes
Authors: Mbah Ngantchou Henri Joel , Raza Rizwan , Nforna Edwin Akongnwi , Ngolui John Lambi , Sherazi Tauqir A.
Published: April 2023

The reported results represented that Co and Ni enhances the SOFC performance. It is potential electrolyte candidate for solid oxide fuel cell.
Rapid exosome isolation and in situ multiplexed detection of exosomal surface proteins and microRNAs on microfluidic platform
Authors: Chen Yulin , Gao Dan , Zhu Qingyun , Chu Bizhu , Peng Jie , Wang Jian , Liu Liping , Jiang Yuyang
Published: April 2023

Exosomes are considered as promising biomarkers for early cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
Rapid detection of urine chloride enabled by ion exchange in hydrophilic lead halide perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Li Xianli , Li Jie , Hong Peibin , Ni Wen-Xiu , Luo Binbin
Published: April 2023

Colloidal GA-capped PNC ethanol solution shows a continuous PL shift once aqueous Cl− with different concentrations is added. This fluorescent sensor shows a wide linear detection range (2–200 mM) of Cl−, short response time (∼1 s), and low limit of detection (1.82 mM).
Recent advances in magnetism of graphene from 0D to 2D
Authors: Li Ziying , Li Shuilin , Xu Yongjie , Tang Nujiang
Published: April 2023

This article reviews the recent progress of magnetic research of graphene in different dimensions under various of regulatory techniques.
Tailoring the π-system of benzimidazole ligands towards stable light-harvesting cyclometalated iridium(iii) complexes
Authors: Tatarin Sergei V. , Smirnov Daniil E. , Taydakov Ilya V. , Metlin Mikhail T. , Emets Victor V. , Bezzubov Stanislav I.
Published: April 2023

Cyclometalation of 2-arylbenzimidazoles decorated with various polyaromatic fragments leads to formation of strongly absorbing iridium dyes applicable in DSSC and enables access to structurally diverse iridium(iii) complexes.
Two novel metal–organic frameworks functionalised with pentamethylcyclopentadienyl iridium(iii) chloride for catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide to formate
Authors: Gumbo Maureen , Makhubela Banothile C. E. , Mehlana Gift
Published: April 2023

Two isostructural MOFs are functionalised using Ir(iii) complex and applied in the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to formate under mild conditions.
Aqueous nanoprecipitation for programmable fabrication of versatile biopolymer nanoparticles
Authors: Ding Dongming , Gong Li , Li Miao , Cheng Xie , Peng Huahong , Zhang Zesheng , Wang Shuai , Yan Xibo
Published: April 2023

One-pot fabrication of pectin-based biopolymer nanoparticles with tailorable versatility through aqueous solvent/non-solvent switching-induced nanoprecipitation is reported in this paper.
Honeycomb layered topology construction for exceptional long-wave infrared nonlinear optical crystals
Authors: Chen Jindong , Lin Chensheng , Jiang Xiaotian , Yang Guangsai , Luo Min , Zhao Xin , Li Bingxuan , Peng Guang , Ye Ning , Hu Zhanggui , Wang Jiyang , Wu Yicheng
Published: April 2023

Hg3AsSe4X (X = Br and I) derived from honeycomb layered topology of GaSe, achieved superior optical properties including strong SHG effects, suitable band gaps, large birefringence and wide IR transparency range.
Control and regulation of the performance of fullerene-based dye-sensitized solar cells with a D–D–A structure by external electric fields
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Shen Cong , Li Jingping , Zhang Meixia , Song Peng
Published: April 2023

We investigated the modulating effect of an electric field (Fext) on the photovoltaic properties of triphenylamine-based sensitizers with a D–D–A structure and compared the photovoltaic parameters at different electric field intensities.
Preparation of MnOx–Al2O3 aerogels and synergistic catalytic oxidation of toluene via ozone
Authors: Gao Ning , Gu Xuanyu , Liu Jining , Fan Mengjie , Chen Yingwen
Published: April 2023

At present, it is challenging to improve the activity and humidity resistance of ozone catalysts.
MOF-derived nanocarbon materials loaded with bimetallic sulfides as cathode catalysts for zinc–air batteries
Authors: Liu Junjie , Ma Jingsheng , Tang Kun , Wang Rui , Wu Yongjian , Qu Cheng , Wu Mingzai
Published: April 2023

The CoS2 and FeS2 nanoparticles coated with carbon skeleton were directly synthesized by using CoFe-MOF as precursor, and made them have the catalytic activity of OER and ORR, and successfully realized the rational design of bifunctional catalysts.
Computational screening of effective g-C3N4 based single atom electrocatalysts for the selective conversion of CO2
Authors: Zhu Huiwen , Liu Shuai , Yu Jiahui , Chen Quhan , Mao Xinyi , Wu Tao
Published: April 2023

Scheme diagram illustrating the computation screening process of effective g-C3N4 based single atom electrocatalysts for the selective conversion of CO2.
Ferroelectric synaptic devices based on CMOS-compatible HfAlOxfor neuromorphic and reservoir computing applications
Authors: Kim Dahye , Kim Jihyung , Yun Seokyeon , Lee Jungwoo , Seo Euncho , Kim Sungjun
Published: April 2023

The hafnium oxide-based ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) has been actively researched because of desirable advantages such as low power and CMOS compatibility to operate as a memristor.