bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocean Carbon Dioxide Uptake in the Tailpipe of Industrialized Continents
Authors: Palter J. B. , Nickford S. , Mu L.
Published: November 2023

A simplifying assumption in many studies of ocean carbon uptake is that the atmosphere is well‐mixed, such that zonal variations in its carbon dioxide (CO2) content can be neglected in the calculation of air‐sea fluxes. Here, we examine this assumption at various scales to quantify the errors it introduces. For global annual averages, we find that positive and negative errors effectively cancel, so the use of atmospheric zonal‐average CO2 introduces reassuringly small errors in fluxes. However, for millions of square kilometers of the North Pacific and Atlantic that are downwind of the highly industrialized northern hemisphere continents, these biases average to over 6% of the annual ocean uptake and can cause errors of up to 30% on a given day. This work highlights the need to use a high quality, spatially‐resolved atmospheric CO2 product for process studies and for accurate long‐term average maps of ocean carbon uptake.
Synergistic Impact of Complex Topography and Climate Variability on the Loss of Microclimate Heterogeneity in Southeast Asia
Authors: Guan Yanlong , Liu Junguo , Chen Penghan , Wang Yanlong , Liang Dongzhe , Xue Yuxuan , Chen He , Liu Zhentao , Pellikka Petri
Published: November 2023

Microclimate heterogeneity in Southeast Asia and its implications for biodiversity remain understudied. We investigated microclimate changes between 1982 and 2017 using high‐resolution data and a patch‐mosaic model. Our findings reveal a decline in microclimate heterogeneity (as indicated by Shannon's diversity index) and a significant increase in elevation. Topographical factors (∼50.6%) and climatic factors (∼21.5%) primarily influenced the decline. Spatial heterogeneity weakened with larger moving windows and coarser grid‐scale data sets. Our study suggests that shifting mountainous microclimates play a crucial role in mediating biodiversity in Southeast Asia.
Kinematic Evolution of a Large Paraglacial Landslide in the Barry Arm Fjord of Alaska
Authors: Schaefer L. N. , Coe J. A. , Wikstrom Jones K. , Collins B. D. , Staley D. M. , West M. , Karasozen E. , Miles C. , Wolken G. J. , Daanen R. P. , Baxstrom K. W.
Published: November 2023

Our warming climate is adversely affecting cryospheric landscapes via glacial retreat, permafrost degradation, and associated slope destabilization. In Prince William Sound, Alaska, the rapid retreat of Barry Glacier has destabilized the slopes flanking the glacier, resulting in numerous landslides. The largest of these landslides (∼500 Mm3 in volume) is more than 2 km wide and has the potential to generate a tsunami that could affect nearby recreationists, marine traffic, infrastructure, natural and cultural resources, and the community of Whittier, located 60 km from the landslide. Here, we combine landslide structural and kinematic element mapping with data acquired from bi‐yearly airborne lidar, multi‐week satellite‐based synthetic aperture radar (SAR), sub‐hourly ground‐based SAR, and seismic monitoring from 2020 to 2022 to characterize this landslide and examine its evolution. While some methods serve as a snapshot in time that is a culmination of events, others emphasize the ever‐evolving nature of the landslide and associated hazards. Four major kinematic elements define the overall structure of the landslide, which vary in deformation type and rate, from creep (5 mm per day over several months) to episodic movement (2 m in 30 days) and landslide‐wide to localized events. In some areas of the landslide, short‐term deformation deviates from structures formed by cumulative movement, implying structural and kinematic evolution associated with glacier retreat. These insights are important for assessing landslide hazards and hazard evolution for large, slow‐moving bedrock landslides in actively deglaciating environments.
Understanding nucleic acid sensing and its therapeutic applications
Authors: Kong Ling-Zu , Kim Seok-Min , Wang Chunli , Lee Soo Yun , Oh Se-Chan , Lee Sunyoung , Jo Seona , Kim Tae-Don
Published: November 2023

Nucleic acid sensing is involved in viral infections, immune response-related diseases, and therapeutics. Based on the composition of nucleic acids, nucleic acid sensors are defined as DNA or RNA sensors. Pathogen-associated nucleic acids are recognized by membrane-bound and intracellular receptors, known as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which induce innate immune-mediated antiviral responses. PRR activation is tightly regulated to eliminate infections and prevent abnormal or excessive immune responses. Nucleic acid sensing is an essential mechanism in tumor immunotherapy and gene therapies that target cancer and infectious diseases through genetically engineered immune cells or therapeutic nucleic acids. Nucleic acid sensing supports immune cells in priming desirable immune responses during tumor treatment. Recent studies have shown that nucleic acid sensing affects the efficiency of gene therapy by inhibiting translation. Suppression of innate immunity induced by nucleic acid sensing through small-molecule inhibitors, virus-derived proteins, and chemical modifications offers a potential therapeutic strategy. Herein, we review the mechanisms and regulation of nucleic acid sensing, specifically covering recent advances. Furthermore, we summarize and discuss recent research progress regarding the different effects of nucleic acid sensing on therapeutic efficacy. This study provides insights for the application of nucleic acid sensing in therapy.
Functional involvement of septal miR-132 in extinction and oxytocin-mediated reversal of social fear
Authors: Bludau Anna , Schwartz Uwe , Zeitler Daniela M. , Royer Melanie , Meister Gunter , Neumann Inga D. , Menon Rohit
Published: November 2023

Social interactions are critical for mammalian survival and evolution. Dysregulation of social behavior often leads to psychopathologies such as social anxiety disorder, denoted by intense fear and avoidance of social situations. Using the social fear conditioning (SFC) paradigm, we analyzed expression levels of miR-132-3p and miR-124-3p within the septum, a brain region essential for social preference and avoidance behavior, after acquisition and extinction of social fear. Here, we found that SFC dynamically altered both microRNAs. Functional in vivo approaches using pharmacological strategies, inhibition of miR-132-3p, viral overexpression of miR-132-3p, and shRNA-mediated knockdown of miR-132-3p specifically within oxytocin receptor-positive neurons confirmed septal miR-132-3p to be critically involved not only in social fear extinction, but also in oxytocin-induced reversal of social fear. Moreover, Argonaute-RNA-co-immunoprecipitation-microarray analysis and further in vitro and in vivo quantification of target mRNA and protein, revealed growth differentiation factor-5 (Gdf-5) as a target of miR-132-3p. Septal application of GDF-5 impaired social fear extinction suggesting its functional involvement in the reversal of social fear. In summary, we show that septal miR-132-3p and its downstream target Gdf-5 regulate social fear expression and potentially mediate oxytocin-induced reversal of social fear.
Cytochrome P450-2D6 activity in people with codeine use disorder
Authors: Daglish Mark R. C. , Reilly Sarah R. , Mostafa Sam , Edwards Cameron , O’Gorman Thomas M. , Hayllar Jeremy S.
Published: November 2023

Compound-analgesics containing codeine (CACC) have been a common source of codeine for people seeking opioid replacement therapy (ORT) for codeine use disorder (CUD). Our previous work demonstrated no relationship between pre-treatment CACC and ORT buprenorphine doses; we hypothesised that CYP2D6 activity would partially account for this disconnection. One hundred six participants with CUD were compared to a published population sample of 5408 Australian patients. Mean age of participants with CUD at treatment entry was 35 years, with mean 6.1 years duration of CUD. Mean codeine dose was 660 mg/day (range 40–2700 mg). Mean calculated CYP2D6 activity scores were significantly higher in the codeine group (CUD 1.65 + 0.63 vs. Gen pop 1.39 + 0.65, Wilcoxon W = 347,001, p < 0.001). Pre-treatment CACC dose weakly predicted sublingual buprenorphine doses overall; there was a stronger relationship within ultrarapid metabolisers. While normal and ultrarapid metabolisers of codeine were more likely to have a diagnosis of CUD, poor or intermediate CYP2D6 metaboliser status may protect against CUD.
Successes and challenges in clinical gene therapy
Authors: Kohn Donald B. , Chen Yvonne Y. , Spencer Melissa J.
Published: November 2023

Despite the ups and downs in the field over three decades, the science of gene therapy has continued to advance and provide enduring treatments for increasing number of diseases. There are active clinical trials approaching a variety of inherited and acquired disorders of different organ systems. Approaches include ex vivo modification of hematologic stem cells (HSC), T lymphocytes and other immune cells, as well as in vivo delivery of genes or gene editing reagents to the relevant target cells by either local or systemic administration. In this article, we highlight success and ongoing challenges in three areas of high activity in gene therapy: inherited blood cell diseases by targeting hematopoietic stem cells, malignant disorders using immune effector cells genetically modified with chimeric antigen receptors, and ophthalmologic, neurologic, and coagulation disorders using in vivo administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. In recent years, there have been true cures for many of these diseases, with sustained clinical benefit that exceed those from other medical approaches. Each of these treatments faces ongoing challenges, namely their high one-time costs and the complexity of manufacturing the therapeutic agents, which are biological viruses and cell products, at pharmacologic standards of quality and consistency. New models of reimbursement are needed to make these innovative treatments widely available to patients in need.
Optogenetic stimulation of vagal nerves for enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and β cell proliferation
Authors: Kawana Yohei , Imai Junta , Morizawa Yosuke M. , Ikoma Yoko , Kohata Masato , Komamura Hiroshi , Sato Toshihiro , Izumi Tomohito , Yamamoto Junpei , Endo Akira , Sugawara Hiroto , Kubo Haremaru , Hosaka Shinichiro , Munakata Yuichiro , Asai Yoichiro , Kodama Shinjiro , Takahashi Kei , Kaneko Keizo , Sawada Shojiro , Yamada Tetsuya , Ito Akira , Niizuma Kuniyasu , Tominaga Teiji , Yamanaka Akihiro , Matsui Ko , Katagiri Hideki
Published: November 2023

The enhancement of insulin secretion and of the proliferation of pancreatic β cells are promising therapeutic options for diabetes. Signals from the vagal nerve regulate both processes, yet the effectiveness of stimulating the nerve is unclear, owing to a lack of techniques for doing it so selectively and prolongedly. Here we report two optogenetic methods for vagal-nerve stimulation that led to enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and to β cell proliferation in mice expressing choline acetyltransferase-channelrhodopsin 2. One method involves subdiaphragmatic implantation of an optical fibre for the photostimulation of cholinergic neurons expressing a blue-light-sensitive opsin. The other method, which suppressed streptozotocin-induced hyperglycaemia in the mice, involves the selective activation of vagal fibres by placing blue-light-emitting lanthanide microparticles in the pancreatic ducts of opsin-expressing mice, followed by near-infrared illumination. The two methods show that signals from the vagal nerve, especially from nerve fibres innervating the pancreas, are sufficient to regulate insulin secretion and β cell proliferation.
Selection of a de novo gene that can promote survival of Escherichia coli by modulating protein homeostasis pathways
Authors: Frumkin Idan , Laub Michael T.
Published: November 2023

Cellular novelty can emerge when non-functional loci become functional genes in a process termed de novo gene birth. But how proteins with random amino acid sequences beneficially integrate into existing cellular pathways remains poorly understood. We screened ~108 genes, generated from random nucleotide sequences and devoid of homology to natural genes, for their ability to rescue growth arrest of Escherichia coli cells producing the ribonuclease toxin MazF. We identified ~2,000 genes that could promote growth, probably by reducing transcription from the promoter driving toxin expression. Additionally, one random protein, named Random antitoxin of MazF (RamF), modulated protein homeostasis by interacting with chaperones, leading to MazF proteolysis and a consequent loss of its toxicity. Finally, we demonstrate that random proteins can improve during evolution by identifying beneficial mutations that turned RamF into a more efficient inhibitor. Our work provides a mechanistic basis for how de novo gene birth can produce functional proteins that effectively benefit cells evolving under stress.
Risk of hematological malignancies from CT radiation exposure in children, adolescents and young adults
Authors: Bosch de Basea Gomez Magda , Thierry-Chef Isabelle , Harbron Richard , Hauptmann Michael , Byrnes Graham , Bernier Maria-Odile , Le Cornet Lucian , Dabin Jérémie , Ferro Gilles , Istad Tore S. , Jahnen Andreas , Lee Choonsik , Maccia Carlo , Malchair Françoise , Olerud Hilde , Simon Steven L. , Figuerola Jordi , Peiro Anna , Engels Hilde , Johansen Christoffer , Blettner Maria , Kaijser Magnus , Kjaerheim Kristina , Berrington de Gonzalez Amy , Journy Neige , Meulepas Johanna M. , Moissonnier Monika , Nordenskjold Arvid , Pokora Roman , Ronckers Cecile , Schüz Joachim , Kesminiene Ausrele , Cardis Elisabeth
Published: November 2023

Over one million European children undergo computed tomography (CT) scans annually. Although moderate- to high-dose ionizing radiation exposure is an established risk factor for hematological malignancies, risks at CT examination dose levels remain uncertain. Here we followed up a multinational cohort (EPI-CT) of 948,174 individuals who underwent CT examinations before age 22 years in nine European countries. Radiation doses to the active bone marrow were estimated on the basis of body part scanned, patient characteristics, time period and inferred CT technical parameters. We found an association between cumulative dose and risk of all hematological malignancies, with an excess relative risk of 1.96 (95% confidence interval 1.10 to 3.12) per 100 mGy (790 cases). Similar estimates were obtained for lymphoid and myeloid malignancies. Results suggest that for every 10,000 children examined today (mean dose 8 mGy), 1–2 persons are expected to develop a hematological malignancy attributable to radiation exposure in the subsequent 12 years. Our results strengthen the body of evidence of increased cancer risk at low radiation doses and highlight the need for continued justification of pediatric CT examinations and optimization of doses.
Biosynthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles from Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel waste and its application to inhibit foodborne pathogens
Authors: Farouk Salma M. , Abu-Hussien Samah H. , Abd-Elhalim Basma T. , Mohamed Reham M. , Arabe Naira M. , Hussain Ahmed A. T. , Mostafa Mostafa E. , Hemdan Bahaa , El-Sayed Salwa M. , Bakry Ashraf , Ebeed Naglaa M. , Salah Mahmoud , Elhariry Hesham , Galal Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Polyphenolics have been predicted to effectively develop antimicrobial agents for the food industry as food additives and promote human health. This study aims to synthesize pomegranate peel extract (PPE) with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against eight foodborne pathogens. Multispectroscopic analysis of UV–vis spectroscopy, Zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis were used to characterize the interaction between PPE and AgNPs. Eight foodborne pathogenic strains (six bacterial and two fungal strains) Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Escherichia coli ATCC 8379, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 00607, Salmonella typhi DSM 17058, Shigella sonnei DSM 5570, Aspergillus flavus ATCC 9643, and Rhizopus oryzae ATCC 96382 were used to test the inhibitory potential of PPW-AgNPs. The reaction colour of PPE-AgNPs from yellow to brown indicated that the nanoparticles were successfully formed. The UV absorption of PPE-AgNPs was detected at 440 nm of 0.9 SPR. SEM image of PPE-AgNPs exhibited spherical shapes with a zeta potential of − 20.1 mV. PPE-AgNPs showed high antimicrobial activity against all tested strains. The highest inhibition activity of PPE-AgNPs was recorded for the B. subtilis strain followed by K. pneumonia, while the highest resistance was noticed for R. oryzae. The components of pomegranate peel were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The major constituents of pomegranate peel is phenol (51.1%), followed by Isocitronellol (19.41%) and 1-Propanol, 2-(2-hydroxypropyl)- (16.05%). PPE is key in the simple, eco-friendly green synthesis of extracellular stable AgNPs as an alternative source for harmful chemical disinfectants.
The relationship between perseverative thinking, proactive control, and inhibition in psychological distress: a study in a women’s cohort
Authors: Mattioni Lorenzo , Spada Marcantonio M. , Ferri Francesca , Sestieri Carlo
Published: November 2023

Cognitive control is a core feature of several mental disorders. A recent account poses that health problems may derive from proactive forms of cognitive control that maintain stress representation over time. The working hypothesis of the present study is that psychological distress is caused by the tendency to select a particular maladaptive self-regulation strategy over time, namely perseverative thinking, rather than by transient stimulus–response patterns. To test this hypothesis, we asked 84 women to carry out a battery of standardized questionnaires regarding their tendency to undertake perseverative thinking and their level of psychological distress, followed by cognitive tasks measuring the tendency to use proactive versus reactive control modality and disinhibition. Through a series of mediation analyses, we demonstrate that the tendency to use proactive control correlates with psychological distress and that this relation is mediated by perseverative thinking. Moreover, we show that the relation between low inhibitory control and psychological stress is more strongly mediated by perseverative thinking than impulsiveness, a classical construct that focuses on more transient reactions to stimuli. The present results underline the importance of considering psychological distress as the consequence of a maladaptive way of applying control over time, rather than the result of a general deficit in cognitive control abilities.
Circ_ZNF778_006 promoted ESCC progression by upregulating HIF-1α expression via sponging miR-18b-5p
Authors: Si Xianzhe , Su Xincheng , Lin Weijie , Xu Jie , Huang Wenbo , Chen Feng , Huang Zhijun , Lin Jianqing , Chen Zhiyao
Published: November 2023

In multiple malignant tumors, circular RNAs (circRNAs) are believed to play a crucial role. Our prior results demonstrated that circ_ZNF778_006 was significantly increased in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tissues, but the roles of circ_ZNF778_006 in ESCC is still not clear. The expression of circ_ZNF778_006 was compared in different pathological grades of ESCC. And the expression levels of circ_ZNF778_006, miR-18b-5p, HIF-1α were analyzed by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Plasmid transfection techniques were applied to prepare ESCC cells with silenced or overexpressed genes (CircZNF778_006, miR-18b-5p). The CCK8 kit was used to determine cell proliferation, and the Transwell assay was used to measure the migration and invasion. The effects of circ_ZNF778_006 on tumor growth was investigated in vivo. Furthermore, luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) were performed to verify the targeting relationship between miR-18b-5p and circZNF778_006, miR-18b-5p and HIF-1α. The expression of circ_ZNF778_006 was positively correlated with pathological grade in ESCC. Circ_ZNF778_006 significantly inhibited sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil & cisplatin. It could promote the proliferation, invasion, migration in ESCC cells and accelerated tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, circ_ZNF778_006 could upregulate the expression of HIF-1α via sponing miR-18b-5p. Circ_ZNF778_006 promoted ESCC progression by upregulating HIF-1α expression via sponging miR-18b-5p.
Hippocampal interneuronal dysfunction and hyperexcitability in a porcine model of concussion
Authors: Ulyanova Alexandra V. , Adam Christopher D. , Cottone Carlo , Maheshwari Nikhil , Grovola Michael R. , Fruchet Oceane E. , Alamar Jami , Koch Paul F. , Johnson Victoria E. , Cullen D. Kacy , Wolf John A.
Published: November 2023

Cognitive impairment is a common symptom following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI or concussion) and can persist for years in some individuals. Hippocampal slice preparations following closed-head, rotational acceleration injury in swine have previously demonstrated reduced axonal function and hippocampal circuitry disruption. However, electrophysiological changes in hippocampal neurons and their subtypes in a large animal mTBI model have not been examined. Using in vivo electrophysiology techniques, we examined laminar oscillatory field potentials and single unit activity in the hippocampal network 7 days post-injury in anesthetized minipigs. Concussion altered the electrophysiological properties of pyramidal cells and interneurons differently in area CA1. While the firing rate, spike width and amplitude of CA1 interneurons were significantly decreased post-mTBI, these parameters were unchanged in CA1 pyramidal neurons. In addition, CA1 pyramidal neurons in TBI animals were less entrained to hippocampal gamma (40–80 Hz) oscillations. Stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals also revealed hyperexcitability across the CA1 lamina post-mTBI. Computational simulations suggest that reported changes in interneuronal physiology may be due to alterations in voltage-gated sodium channels. These data demonstrate that a single concussion can lead to significant neuronal and circuit level changes in the hippocampus, which may contribute to cognitive dysfunction following mTBI.
Flavinated SDHA underlies the change in intrinsic optical properties of oral cancers
Authors: Marumo Tomoko , Maduka Chima V. , Ural Evran , Apu Ehsanul Hoque , Chung Seock-Jin , Tanabe Koji , van den Berg Nynke S. , Zhou Quan , Martin Brock A. , Miura Tadashi , Rosenthal Eben L. , Shibahara Takahiko , Contag Christopher H.
Published: November 2023

The molecular basis of reduced autofluorescence in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells relative to normal cells has been speculated to be due to lower levels of free flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD). This speculation, along with differences in the intrinsic optical properties of extracellular collagen, lies at the foundation of the design of currently-used clinical optical detection devices. Here, we report that free FAD levels may not account for differences in autofluorescence of OSCC cells, but that the differences relate to FAD as a co-factor for flavination. Autofluorescence from a 70 kDa flavoprotein, succinate dehydrogenase A (SDHA), was found to be responsible for changes in optical properties within the FAD spectral region, with lower levels of flavinated SDHA in OSCC cells. Since flavinated SDHA is required for functional complexation with succinate dehydrogenase B (SDHB), decreased SDHB levels were observed in human OSCC tissue relative to normal tissues. Accordingly, the metabolism of OSCC cells was found to be significantly altered relative to normal cells, revealing vulnerabilities for both diagnosis and targeted therapy. Optimizing non-invasive tools based on optical and metabolic signatures of cancers will enable more precise and early diagnosis leading to improved outcomes in patients.
Increasing pulse pressure ex vivo, mimicking acute physical exercise, induces smooth muscle cell-mediated de-stiffening of murine aortic segments
Authors: Neutel Cédric H. G. , Weyns Anne-Sophie , Leloup Arthur , De Moudt Sofie , Guns Pieter-Jan , Fransen Paul
Published: November 2023

The mechanisms by which physical activity affects cardiovascular function and physiology are complex and multifactorial. In the present study, cardiac output during rest or acute physical activity was simulated in isolated aortic segments of healthy C57BL/6J wild-type mice. This was performed using the Rodent Oscillatory Tension Set-up to study Arterial Compliance (ROTSAC) by applying cyclic stretch of different amplitude, duration and frequency in well-controlled and manageable experimental conditions. Our data show that vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of the aorta have the intrinsic ability to “de-stiffen” or “relax” after periods of high cyclic stretch and to “re-stiffen” slowly thereafter upon return to normal distension pressures. Thereby, certain conditions have to be fulfilled: 1) VSMC contraction and repetitive stretching (loading/unloading cycles) are a prerequisite to induce post-exercise de-stiffening; 2) one bout of high cyclic stretch is enough to induce de- and re-stiffening. Aortic de-stiffening was highly dependent on cyclic stretch amplitude and on the manner and timing of contraction with probable involvement of focal adhesion phosphorylation/activation. Results of this study may have implications for the therapeutic potential of regular and acute physical activity and its role in the prevention and/or treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide regulates body weight and food intake via GABAergic neurons in mice
Authors: Liskiewicz Arkadiusz , Khalil Ahmed , Liskiewicz Daniela , Novikoff Aaron , Grandl Gerald , Maity-Kumar Gandhari , Gutgesell Robert M. , Bakhti Mostafa , Bastidas-Ponce Aimée , Czarnecki Oliver , Makris Konstantinos , Lickert Heiko , Feuchtinger Annette , Tost Monica , Coupland Callum , Ständer Lisa , Akindehin Seun , Prakash Sneha , Abrar Faiyaz , Castelino Russell L. , He Yantao , Knerr Patrick J. , Yang Bin , Hogendorf Wouter F. J. , Zhang Shiqi , Hofmann Susanna M. , Finan Brian , DiMarchi Richard D. , Tschöp Matthias H. , Douros Jonathan D. , Müller Timo D.
Published: November 2023

The development of single-molecule co-agonists for the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor (GLP-1R) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor (GIPR) is considered a breakthrough in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. But although GIPR–GLP-1R co-agonism decreases body weight with superior efficacy relative to GLP-1R agonism alone in preclinical1–3 and clinical studies4,5, the role of GIP in regulating energy metabolism remains enigmatic. Increasing evidence suggests that long-acting GIPR agonists act in the brain to decrease body weight through the inhibition of food intake3,6–8; however, the mechanisms and neuronal populations through which GIP affects metabolism remain to be identified. Here, we report that long-acting GIPR agonists and GIPR–GLP-1R co-agonists decrease body weight and food intake via inhibitory GABAergic neurons. We show that acyl-GIP decreases body weight and food intake in male diet-induced obese wild-type mice, but not in mice with deletion of Gipr in Vgat(also known as Slc32a1)-expressing GABAergic neurons (Vgat-Gipr knockout). Whereas the GIPR–GLP-1R co-agonist MAR709 leads, in male diet-induced obese wild-type mice, to greater weight loss and further inhibition of food intake relative to a pharmacokinetically matched acyl-GLP-1 control, this superiority over GLP-1 vanishes in Vgat-Gipr knockout mice. Our data demonstrate that long-acting GIPR agonists crucially depend on GIPR signaling in inhibitory GABAergic neurons to decrease body weight and food intake.
Self-supervised deep learning for tracking degradation of perovskite light-emitting diodes with multispectral imaging
Authors: Ji Kangyu , Lin Weizhe , Sun Yuqi , Cui Lin-Song , Shamsi Javad , Chiang Yu-Hsien , Chen Jiawei , Tennyson Elizabeth M. , Dai Linjie , Li Qingbiao , Frohna Kyle , Anaya Miguel , Greenham Neil C. , Stranks Samuel D.
Published: November 2023

Emerging functional materials such as halide perovskites are intrinsically unstable, causing long-term instability in optoelectronic devices made from these materials. This leads to difficulty in capturing useful information on device degradation through time-consuming optical characterization in their operating environments. Despite these challenges, understanding the degradation mechanism is crucial for advancing the technology towards commercialization. Here we present a self-supervised machine learning model that utilizes a multi-channel correlation and blind denoising to recover images without high-quality references, enabling fast and low-dose measurements. We perform operando luminescence mapping of various emerging optoelectronic semiconductors, including organic and halide perovskite photovoltaic and light-emitting devices. By tracking the spatially resolved degradation in electroluminescence of mixed-halide perovskite blue-light-emitting diodes, we discovered that lateral ion migration (perpendicular to the external electric field) during device operation triggers the formation of chloride-rich defective regions that emit poorly—a mechanism that would not be resolvable with conventional imaging approaches.
CD133+ endothelial-like stem cells restore neovascularization and promote longevity in progeroid and naturally aged mice
Authors: Sun Shimin , Meng Yuan , Li Mingying , Tang Xiaolong , Hu Wenjing , Wu Weiwei , Li Guo , Pang Qiuxiang , Wang Wengong , Liu Baohua
Published: November 2023

The stem cell theory of aging dictates that a decline in the number and/or function of stem cells causes tissue degeneration and aging; however, it still lacks unequivocal experimental support. Here, using lineage tracing and single-cell transcriptomics, we identify a population of CD133+ bone marrow-derived endothelial-like cells (ELCs) as potential endothelial progenitor cells, which contribute to tubular structures in vitro and neovascularization in vivo. We demonstrate that supplementation with wild-type and young ELCs respectively restores neovascularization and extends lifespan in progeric and naturally aged mice. Mechanistically, we identify an upregulation of farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FDPS) in aged CD133+ ELCs—a key enzyme in isoprenoid biosynthesis. Overexpression of FDPS compromises the neovascularization capacity of CD133+ ELCs, whereas FDPS inhibition by pamidronate enhances neovascularization, improves health measures and extends lifespan in aged mice. These findings highlight stem cell-based strategies for the treatment of progeria and age-related pathologies.
The CRTC-1 transcriptional domain is required for COMPASS complex-mediated longevity in C. elegans
Authors: Silva-García Carlos G. , Láscarez-Lagunas Laura I. , Papsdorf Katharina , Heintz Caroline , Prabhakar Aditi , Morrow Christopher S. , Pajuelo Torres Lourdes , Sharma Arpit , Liu Jihe , Colaiácovo Monica P. , Brunet Anne , Mair William B.
Published: November 2023

Loss of function during aging is accompanied by transcriptional drift, altering gene expression and contributing to a variety of age-related diseases. CREB-regulated transcriptional coactivators (CRTCs) have emerged as key regulators of gene expression that might be targeted to promote longevity. Here we define the role of the Caenorhabditis elegans CRTC-1 in the epigenetic regulation of longevity. Endogenous CRTC-1 binds chromatin factors, including components of the COMPASS complex, which trimethylates lysine 4 on histone H3 (H3K4me3). CRISPR editing of endogenous CRTC-1 reveals that the CREB-binding domain in neurons is specifically required for H3K4me3-dependent longevity. However, this effect is independent of CREB but instead acts via the transcription factor AP-1. Strikingly, CRTC-1 also mediates global histone acetylation levels, and this acetylation is essential for H3K4me3-dependent longevity. Indeed, overexpression of an acetyltransferase enzyme is sufficient to promote longevity in wild-type worms. CRTCs, therefore, link energetics to longevity by critically fine-tuning histone acetylation and methylation to promote healthy aging.
Towards high-performance nonlinear optical materials through embedding a D–A system into β-ketoenamine-linked COFs
Authors: Li Mingyan , Chu Jiahui , Ding Debo , Li Tingting , Su Endian , Song Yinglin , Yang Yun-Fang , She Yuanbin , Jia Jianhong
Published: November 2023

Two covalent organic framework (COF) films supported by a glass substrate were obtained by solvothermal reaction of an electron donor with electron acceptor 1,3,5-triformylbenzene (TF) or 2,4,6-triformylphloroglucinol (TFP), respectively.
Visualizing molecular deformation in fibrin networks under tensile loading via FLIM–FRET
Authors: Hedayati Mohammadhasan , Chen Yuan-I , Houser Justin R. , Wang Yujen , Norouzi Sajjad , Yeh Hsin-Chih , Parekh Sapun H.
Published: November 2023

Mapping molecular deformation and forces in protein biomaterials is critical to understanding mechanochemistry.
Structural and physico-chemical characterization of hybrid materials based on globular quinuclidinium cation derivatives and tetrachloridocobaltate(ii) anions
Authors: Belloso-Casuso Cantia , de Pedro Imanol , Canadillas-Delgado Laura , Beobide Garikoitz , Sánchez-Andújar Manuel , Gárcia Ben Javier , Walker Julian , González Izquierdo Palmerina , Cano Israel , Rodríguez Fernández Jesus , Fabelo Oscar
Published: November 2023

The present study explores the effect of local symmetry breaking of globular cations on the formation and properties of hybrid organic–inorganic materials based on tetrahalometallate anions.
Development of SrWO4:Ho3+/Yb3+ green phosphor for optical thermometry application
Authors: Gopal Ram , Kumari Chandni , Manam Jairam
Published: November 2023

SrWO4: Ho3+/Yb3+ phosphor exhibiting down-conversion and up-conversion photoluminescence for green light generation and optical thermometry applications.
Coexistence of ferromagnetic–antiferromagnetic ground state, exchange bias effect and bandgap narrowing in Cr-doped ZnO nanocrystals derived by simple chemical method
Authors: Supin K. K. , Chanda Anupama , Vasundhara M.
Published: November 2023

A detailed investigation of the structural, optical and magnetic properties of Cr-doped ZnO nanostructures obtained via a simple chemical method has been carried out.
Correction: Enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction performance of anatase–rutile TiO2 heterojunction via charge transfer from rutile to anatase
Authors: Arzaee Nurul Affiqah , Yodsin Nuttapon , Ullah Habib , Sultana Sabiha , Noh Mohamad Firdaus Mohamad , Zuhdi Ahmad Wafi Mahmood , Yusoff Abd Rashid Bin Mohd , Jungsuttiwong Siriporn , Teridi Mohd Asri Mat
Published: November 2023

Correction for ‘Enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction performance of anatase–rutile TiO2 heterojunction via charge transfer from rutile to anatase’ by Nurul Affiqah Arzaee et al., Catal. Sci. Technol., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3CY00918A.
Smart crystalline framework materials with a triazole carboxylic acid ligand: fluorescence sensing and catalytic reduction of PNP
Authors: Lv Qiu , Guan Qing Lin , Li Jin Long , Li Jin Xiao , Jin Jing , Bai Feng Ying , Xing Yong Heng
Published: November 2023

Three novel complexes were successfully synthesized. Complex 1 can selectively and sensitively detect small-molecule drugs and actinide ions. Complexes 2 and 3 can efficiently catalyze the reduction of PNP.
Effect of the boron element in a Li–P–S system
Authors: Neveu Audric , Raj Hari , Pelé Vincent , Jordy Christian , Pralong Valerie
Published: November 2023

Lithium-ion batteries are nowadays a mature technology for energy storage.
The in situ phosphorization inducing oxygen vacancies in the core–shell structured NiFe oxides boosts the electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Dai Weiji , Hu Fengyu , Yang Xuanyu , Wu Bing , Zhao Cuijiao , Zhang Yudong , Huang Saifang
Published: November 2023

The core shell-structured Px-NiO@Fe2O3 with abundant oxygen vacancies was prepared via the facile annealing treatment of Ni and P species decorated MIL(Fe) MOFs as a promising electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction.
Structures of nickel chloride and thiolate complexes supported by PCN and POCOP pincer ligands and catalytic reactivity of the chloride complexes
Authors: Mao Jia-Xue , Chang Jiarui , Zhang Jie , Chen Xuenian
Published: November 2023

The structure and catalytic reactivity of PCN and POCOP pincer nickel chloride/thiolate complexes are evidently influenced by the pincer backbone composition and substitution.
Photo-catalyst-free photomediated pinacol coupling of ketones/aldehydes by formate at room temperature
Authors: Shen Qing , Cao Kun , Chen Xueqin , Li Xue , Zhang Naiyou , Miao Yang-Bao , Li Jiahong
Published: November 2023

In this work, a highly effective metal-free and photo-catalyst-free method for the reductive coupling of carbonyl compounds to produce pinacols using formate under photoirradiation has been reported.
The quantitative conversion of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and Coca-Cola bottles to p-xylene over Co-based catalysts with tailored activities for deoxygenation and hydrogenation
Authors: Shao Yuewen , Fan Mengjiao , Sun Kai , Gao Guoming , Li Chao , Li Dianqiang , Jiang Yuchen , Zhang Lijun , Zhang Shu , Hu Xun
Published: November 2023

The highly selective conversion of polyethylene terephthalate and Coca-Cola bottles to p-xylene with a yield of >99.0% was achieved over the Co–Fe–Al catalyst with a CoFe alloy.
Green fabrication of PHBV microbeads using a dimethyl isosorbide solvent for skin exfoliators
Authors: You Xianzhu , Zhou Yating , Jin Xuru , Xiang Sheng , Pei Xiaopeng , Zhou Hua , Liao Zhiyong , Tan Ying
Published: November 2023

PHBV microbeads were made in an eco-friendly way, and are eco-friendly, biocompatible, harmless to plants and aquatic organisms and degradable. They showed excellent skin cleaning efficiency, proving their potential to replace traditional petroleum-based microbeads.
Characteristics of laser-induced plasma generated in water and in air with different nanosecond laser pulse durations
Authors: Zhai Canxu , Tian Ye , Wang Longshang , Jia Ziwen , Li Ying , Lu Yuan , Guo Jinjia , Ye Wangquan , Zheng Ronger
Published: November 2023

The characteristics of laser-induced plasma generated in water and in air were compared with two laser pulse durations of 6 ns and 17 ns.
Further insights into the Na2WO4-assisted synthesis method for WS2
Authors: Lan Changyong , Jia Xinyu , Wei Yiyang , Zhang Rui , Wen Shaofeng , Li Chun , Yin Yi , Ho Johnny C.
Published: November 2023

WS2 with different nanostructures can be synthesized by adjusting the substrate temperature and the sequence of S vapor introduction in Na2WO4-assisted chemical vapor deposition.
A TiO2 nanorod and perylene diimide based inorganic/organic nanoheterostructure photoanode for photoelectrochemical urea oxidation
Authors: Bezboruah Jasmine , Mayurdhwaj Sanke Devendra , Vinayakrao Munde Ajay , Trilochand Bhattad Palak , Shekhar Karmakar Himadri , Zade Sanjio S.
Published: November 2023

Visible light-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) urea oxidation using inorganic/organic nano-heterostructure (NH) photoanodes is an attractive method for hydrogen (H2) production.
Modeling size and edge functionalization of MXene-based quantum dots and their effect on electronic and magnetic properties
Authors: Vénosová Barbora , Karlický František
Published: November 2023

We investigated basic models of Ti-based MXene quantum dots and described their structural stability, and electronic and magnetic properties depending on different lateral dimensions and edge functionalization.
Distortion-controlled 1,2-dicarbene reactivity of 3-triflyloxybenzynes: a theoretical approach
Authors: Pirouzi Fatemeh , Eshghi Hossein , Sabet-Sarvestani Hossein
Published: November 2023

The 1,2-dicarbene reactivity of 3-triflyloxybenzynes and the impact of different substituents at the C5-position on the stability of 3-triflyloxybenzynes is described for the first time.
Dehydroamino acid residues in bioactive natural products
Authors: Wang Shan , Wu Kewen , Tang Ya-Jie , Deng Hai
Published: November 2023

In this review, we will discuss recent advances in the biosynthesis of peptidyl NPs containing unusual dhAA residues and cryptic dhAA residues. The proposed biosynthetic pathways of these natural products will also be discussed.
The role of niobium in layered oxide cathodes for conventional lithium-ion and solid-state batteries
Authors: Nunes Barbara Nascimento , van den Bergh Wessel , Strauss Florian , Kondrakov Aleksandr , Janek Jürgen , Brezesinski Torsten
Published: November 2023

This review article highlights the advantages of niobium as a dopant and a coating constituent for improving cycling performance of layered Ni-rich oxide cathodes in liquid- and solid-electrolyte-based Li-ion batteries.
Oxygen defect engineering on low-crystalline iron(iii) oxyhydroxide as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for water oxidation
Authors: Fan Yaning , Zhang Junjun , Luo Kongliang , Zhou Xuanyu , Zhao Jiahua , Bao Weiwei , Su Hui , Wang Nailiang , Zhang Pengfei , Luo Zhenghong
Published: November 2023

The defects optimized the adsorption capacity of the reaction intermediates during the catalytic process and finally improved the catalytic efficiency.
Controlling the reactivity of phthalonitriles for the efficient synthesis of chiral phthalocyanines with self-assembly abilities
Authors: Paramio Irene , Torres Tomás , de la Torre Gema
Published: November 2023

4-Nitrophthalonitrile was used to initiate the self-condensation of binaphthyloxy-bridged phthalonitrile AA-2, rendering the elusive Zn(ii) phthalocyanine (AA)2-2 that was further endowed with cationic tails to form an amphiphilic derivative.
Efficient cyanide sensing using plasmonic Ag/Fe3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Moosavi Razieh , Zibaseresht Ramin
Published: November 2023

In the line of our previous studies, we have reported a developed sensitive and selective probe for cyanide detection based on Ag/Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) with an extremely low limit of detection at the level of ng per milliliter.
Expression of Concern: Concordantly fabricated heterojunction ZnO–TiO2 nanocomposite electrodes via a co-precipitation method for efficient stable quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Shalan Ahmed Esmail , Elseman Ahmed Mourtada , Rasly Mahmoud , Moharam Marwa M. , Lira-Cantu Monica , Rashad Mohamed M.
Published: November 2023

Expression of concern for ‘Concordantly fabricated heterojunction ZnO–TiO2 nanocomposite electrodes via a co-precipitation method for efficient stable quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells’ by Ahmed Esmail Shalan et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 103095–103104, DOI: 10.1039/C5RA21822E.
Dynamics and rheology of vesicles under confined Poiseuille flow
Authors: Gou Zhe , Zhang Hengdi , Nait-Ouhra Abdessamad , Abbasi Mehdi , Farutin Alexander , Misbah Chaouqi
Published: November 2023

We study the rheological behavior and dynamics of vesicles in a Poiseuille flow, unveiling the presence of two distinct branches with slipper shapes and the non-monotonic trend of the normalized viscosity as a function of vesicle concentration.
Tribocharging of granular materials and influence on their flow
Authors: Preud’homme Nicolas , Lumay Geoffroy , Vandewalle Nicolas , Opsomer Eric
Published: November 2023

Using the patch model in numerical simulations, the contact charging of mono- and bi-disperse granular materials could be reproduced and interpreted. The effect of charging on cohesion is analyzed and quantified in a rotating drum.
Traditional and Visual–Acoustic Biofeedback Treatment via Telepractice for Residual Speech Sound Disorders Affecting /ɹ/: Pilot Study
Authors: Ochs Laura C. , Leece Megan C. , Preston Jonathan L. , McAllister Tara , Hitchcock Elaine R.
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to examine the feasibility of telepractice delivery of a treatment package including visual–acoustic biofeedback (VAB) and motor-based treatment for residual speech sound disorder affecting /ɹ/ in school-age children. The overall study used a single-case randomization design; however, this preliminary report will simply quantify changes in accuracy before and after completion of the treatment package. The present analysis did not differentiate between the relative contributions of biofeedback and motor-based treatments.

Method:

Seven children aged 9–14 years received speech therapy for /ɹ/ distortions via telepractice. The study design consisted of three phases: baseline (four sessions), treatment (20 sessions), and posttreatment (three sessions). Treatment included two sessions weekly for a duration of 10 weeks. The participants received one motor-based/nonbiofeedback session and one VAB session per week. The order of treatment within each week was randomly determined prior to the start of therapy. Overall progress was assessed using untrained listeners' ratings of word probes administered in the baseline and posttreatment phases.

Results:

Findings revealed that six of the seven participants showed a clinically significant response to the overall treatment package, although the magnitude of individual responses varied across speech contexts (consonantal and vocalic) and participants.

Conclusions:

The present results suggest that an intervention combining VAB and motor-based treatment for residual /ɹ/ errors can be effectively delivered via telepractice. Considerations for technology setup and treatment protocols are provided.
A weakly supervised learning pipeline for profiled fibre inspection
Authors: Chen Zhao , Xiu Yahui , Zheng Yuxin , Wang Xinxin , Wang Qian , Guo Danqi , Wan Yan
Published: November 2023

Automatic profiled fibre recognition and analysis can accelerate quality inspection and contributes to the upgrade of the textile industry. However, these tasks often require significant manual effort to generate instance‐level annotations for fully supervised training. In this paper, the authors propose a weakly supervised pipeline for profiled fibre inspection using electron‐microscopic (EM) images with only image‐level annotations. It automatically identifies fibre instances and estimates shape factors to facilitate fibre quality inspection. As the core of the pipeline, the weakly supervised network (WesNet) is designed to localize hundreds of crowded fibre samples by raw patch generation and fibre sample sifting. Particularly, the composite similarity measurement integrates different patch‐wise similarities, enabling the network to distinguish fibre from background robustly. For quality inspection, the pipeline further analyzes the fibre instances, utilizing several efficient techniques to estimate the shape factors. Experiments on the real fibre electron‐microscopic images demonstrate the efficacy and efficiency of the pipeline. Results show that WesNet outperforms several supervised and weakly supervised methods, including two state‐of‐the‐art weakly supervised networks.