bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation as the critique of modernity: a new perspective on Ku Hung-Ming's translation of Confucian classics
Authors: Zhang Lin
Published: November 2024

The current scholarship on Ku Hung-Ming (1857–1928) as a translator and a historical figure has been constrained by identity politics and has viewed his translations and writings as a passive response to the challenge of the Western powers from a Chinese nationalist, or as a process of Ku's identity-building. This article goes beyond these constraints and recognises Ku as an active critic of Western modernity. By drawing on narrative theory, it investigates Ku's three broad choices regarding his translated Confucian classics—translation directionality, the invocation of Goethe, and the use of language mixing on the title pages and/or in the front matter—to demonstrate that Ku's translation agenda was to critique Western modernity. This article constitutes a paradigm shift in the research on Ku's translation of Confucian classics, and challenges what I call the ‘eccentricity thesis’ in Ku Hung-Ming studies to raise awareness of Ku as a critic of modernity.
Influence of Atmospheric Slant Path on Geostationary Hyperspectral Infrared Sounder Radiance Simulations
Authors: Huang Pengyun , Li Jun , Min Min , Li Zhenglong , Di Di , Anantharaj Valentine , Ahn Myoung‐Hwan
Published: November 2024

Accurately simulating a geostationary hyperspectral infrared sounder is critical for quantitative applications. Traditional radiation simulations of such instruments often overlook the influence of slant observation geometry by using vertical profile assumption, leading to inadequate simulation accuracy. By using global atmospheric profiles with 1 km spatial resolution, the slant‐path effects on brightness temperature simulations are quantified. Experiments indicate that the slant geometry has less impact on longwave brightness temperature simulations and has a substantial impact on middle‐wave brightness temperature simulations. It may introduce 0.5 K (or more) uncertainty to brightness temperatures of water vapor absorption channels when the satellite zenith angle is greater than 45°. Considering the slant profile is recommended for quantitative applications of geostationary hyperspectral sounder data, such as sounding retrieval and data assimilation.
Amapari Marker Band, Gale Crater, Mars: Event Horizon With Highest Bedrock Iron and Zinc Concentrations Detected by Curiosity's Alpha Particle X‐Ray Spectrometer
Authors: Thompson L. M. , Spray J. G. , VanBommel S. J. , O'Connell‐Cooper C. D. , Berger J. A. , Gellert R. , Vasavada A. R. , Gupta S. , Yen A. S. , McCraig M. A. , Boyd N. I.
Published: November 2024

Alpha Particle X‐ray spectrometer (APXS) analyses of the distinct Amapari Marker Band (AMB), Gale crater, Mars reveal the highest, in situ, FeO and Zn abundances (47.51, 2.23 wt%), and elevated MnO associated with a lower rippled unit. APXS analyses also reveal a marked shift in provenance, to a generally basaltic composition, compared to the underlying Mg‐sulfate‐bearing strata, which persists into the overlying stratigraphy. The AMB also records perturbation in the MgSO4‐forming conditions present above and below. AMB chemistry could be consistent with a volcanic ash source; high metal concentrations resulting from volatile reactions within an ash cloud. Alternatively, syn‐ and/or post‐depositional precipitation processes within a primary lake setting and/or a later diagenetic event or events may have played a role. Ongoing and future work will aim to further constrain processes responsible for deposition of the AMB, the high metal concentrations and its regional and global implications.
Iridescence Reveals the Formation and Growth of Ice Aerosols in Martian Noctilucent Clouds
Authors: Lemmon M. T. , Vicente‐Retortillo A. , Guzewich S. D. , Juárez M. de la Torre , Innanen A. C. , Campbell C. L. , Maki J. N. , Malin M. C. , Moores J. E.
Published: November 2024

Water and carbon dioxide each form mesospheric clouds on Mars. At such altitudes (40–100 km), clouds may remain sunlit for part of the night. We describe a previously unreported, visually spectacular season of iridescent, noctilucent clouds visible in early southern autumn from the Curiosity rover's site in Gale crater. Ice nucleation begins near sunset with a narrow range of particle sizes, and the ice aerosols grow and precipitate. The iridescence, visible through three‐color imaging, arises from locally uniform particle sizes resulting from similar growth histories. Colorful fall streaks show the clouds evolving, and a scattering corona shows size uniformity over large areas. The terminator was observed on the clouds, allowing the determination of cloud altitudes and a likely CO2 composition. This is the first observation of particle size variations within individual Martian clouds, allowing a new probe of Martian cloud physics.
47 Years of Large Antarctic Calving Events: Insights From Extreme Value Theory
Authors: MacKie Emma J. , Millstein Joanna , Serafin Katherine A.
Published: November 2024

Massive calving events result in significant instantaneous ice loss from Antarctica. The rarity and stochastic nature of these extreme events makes it difficult to understand their physical drivers, temporal trends, and future likelihood. To address this challenge, we turn to extreme value theory to investigate past trends in annual maxima iceberg area and assess the likelihood of high‐magnitude calving events. We use 47 years of iceberg size from satellite observations. Our analysis reveals no upward trend in the surface area of the largest annual iceberg over this time frame. This finding suggests that extreme calving events such as the recent 2017 Larsen C iceberg, A68, are statistically unexceptional and that extreme calving events are not necessarily a consequence of climate change. Nevertheless, it is statistically possible for Antarctica to experience a calving event up to several times greater than any in the observational record.
Measurement of CO2 Column Concentration Above Cloud Tops With a Spaceborne IPDA Lidar
Authors: Mao Zhihua , Zhang Yang , Bu Lingbing , Wang Qin , Xiao Wei , Lee Xuhui , Liang Dingyuan , Burhan Khalid Muhammad , Liu Jiqiao , Chen Weibiao , Liu Sihan , Wang Zhongting
Published: November 2024

The Atmospheric Environment Monitoring Satellite (AEMS), launched by China in 2022, was equipped with active remote sensing lidar for carbon monitoring. It adopts the Integrated Path Differential Absorption (IPDA) technology to monitor global CO2 column concentration (XCO2). The calculation of cloud top XCO2 requires cloud height data. A comparison between SRTM global elevation data and 1,572 nm channel elevation data reveals a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.998, with an average deviation of 1.24 m. The cloud top XCO2 observations are consistent with the OCO‐2 and CarbonTracker trends. The ocean carbon uptake rate, assessed by the difference in CO2 concentration between cloud top and sea surface, is −0.319 mmol/m2/h, which is in good agreement with the associated carbon flux data. This demonstrates the great potential of IPDA lidar for remote sensing of cloud top CO2 and quantifying ocean carbon uptake.
A Parametric Study of Quasi‐Static Electron Acceleration by Modified Electron Acoustic Wave and Comparison to Knight Relation
Authors: Shi Run , Liang Jun , Hu Zejun , Han Desheng , Xiong Yating
Published: November 2024

A comprehensive understanding of how a magnetic source potential is distributed in the magnetosphere‐ionosphere circuit, and the relationship between the field‐aligned current and the parallel potential, is essential for accurately interpreting the observational characteristics of a quasi‐static arc. In this study, we investigate the formation of quasi‐static electron acceleration led by kinetic Alfvén wave‐electron acoustic wave coupling, based on one‐dimensional kinetic simulations. Various controlling factors of the coupling process are considered, including the hot electron density and temperature, the cold electron density and temperature, the perpendicular wave number, and the ionospheric conductance. The ratio between the parallel potential drop and field‐aligned current is found to be approximately proportional to the square root of the hot electron temperature and inversely proportional to the hot electron density, similar to the Knight relation but with a modified slope factor that depends on the perpendicular wavelength and cold electron parameters. Meanwhile, with smaller perpendicular wavelength, lower hot electron density, higher hot electron temperature, and lower cold electron density, more potential drop is applied to the parallel electron acceleration in the transition region.
Biogeochemical Traits of a High Latitude South Pacific Ocean Calcareous Nannoplankton Community During the Oligocene
Authors: Sheward Rosie M. , Herrle Jens O. , Fuchs Julian , Gibbs Samantha J. , Bown Paul R. , Eibes Pia M.
Published: November 2024

Marine phytoplankton community composition influences the production and export of biomass and inorganic minerals (such as calcite), contributing to core marine ecosystem processes that drive biogeochemical cycles and support marine life. Here we use morphological and assemblage data sets within a size‐trait model to investigate the mix of cellular biogeochemical traits (size, biomass, calcite) present in high latitude calcareous nannoplankton communities through the Oligocene (ca. 34–26 Ma) to better understand the biogeochemical consequences of past climate variability on this major calcifying phytoplankton group. Our record from IODP Site U1553 in the southwest Pacific reveals that nannoplankton communities were most size diverse during the earliest Oligocene, which we propose is linked to evidence for increased nutrient availability in the region across the Eocene‐Oligocene transition. In addition to driving changes in community size structure, early Oligocene extinctions of the largest Reticulofenestra species combined with an increasing dominance of heavily calcified, small‐medium‐sized cells through time also led to an overall increase in community inorganic to organic carbon ratios (PIC:POC) throughout the Oligocene. Crucially, genus‐level cellular PIC:POC diversity meant that abundance was not always the best indicator of which species were the major contributors to community biomass and calcite. As shifts in plankton size structure and calcareous nannoplankton PIC:POC have previously been highlighted as important in biological carbon pump dynamics, our results suggest that changes in community composition that are coupled to changes in community biogeochemical trait diversity have the potential to significantly alter the role of calcareous nannoplankton in marine biogeochemical processes.
A comparative analysis of transformed indolent lymphomas and de novo diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Vaughn John L. , Ramdhanny Angela , Munir Malak , Rimmalapudi Sravani , Epperla Narendranath
Published: November 2024

Histologic transformation (HT) of indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL) to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) carries a poor prognosis. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-17 database, we conducted a population-based study of adult patients with transformed follicular lymphoma (t-FL), marginal zone lymphoma (t-MZL), lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinemia (t-LPL/WM), and de novo DLBCL. Primary outcome was relative survival (RS), and secondary outcomes included overall survival (OS) and lymphoma-specific survival (LSS). Outcomes were modeled using flexible parametric survival models, while multivariable modeling was used to compare RS, OS, and LSS. The incidence of HT was highest in splenic MZL (SMZL, 6.78%) and lowest in extranodal MZL (EMZL, 1.62%). Median follow-up times were similar for patients with de novo DLBCL and transformed indolent lymphomas. The 5-year RS and OS were longer in de novo DLBCL compared to all other transformed iNHL subtypes (68 versus 59%, respectively). For t-FL, early transformation (within 2 years of diagnosis, Hazard ratio [HR] = 1.34) and prior treatment (HR = 1.89) were associated with inferior survival. This association was not observed in other transformed lymphoma subtypes. This is the first comparative study to show that the outcomes of t-LPL/WM were inferior compared to de novo DLBCL and highlights the need to incorporate early experimental therapies in patients with t-FL with early transformation and receipt of prior chemotherapy.
Spatio-temporal transcriptomics of chromothriptic SHH-medulloblastoma identifies multiple genetic clones that resist treatment and drive relapse
Authors: Kats Ilia , Simovic-Lorenz Milena , Schreiber Hannah Sophia , Sant Pooja , Mallm Jan-Philipp , Körber Verena , Li Albert , Velmurugan Pravin , Heuer Sophie , Kües Luisa , Devens Frauke , Sill Martin , Jugold Manfred , Moustafa Mahmoud , Abdollahi Amir , Winkler Frank , Korshunov Andrey , Pfister Stefan M. , Stegle Oliver , Ernst Aurélie
Published: November 2024

Paediatric medulloblastomas with chromothripsis are characterised by high genomic instability and are among the tumours with the worst prognosis. However, the molecular makeup and the determinants of the aggressiveness of chromothriptic medulloblastoma are not well understood. Here, we apply spatial transcriptomics to profile a cohort of 13 chromothriptic and non-chromothriptic medulloblastomas from the same molecular subgroup. Our data reveal a higher extent of spatial intra-tumour heterogeneity in chromothriptic medulloblastomas compared to non-chromothripictic tumours, which is associated with increased proliferation and stemness, but lower immune infiltration and differentiation. Spatial mapping of genetic subclones of the same tumour identify a regionally distinct architecture and clone-specific phenotypic features, with distinct degrees of differentiation, proliferation and immune infiltration between clones. We conduct temporal profiling of 11 samples from patient-derived xenografts from a patient with chromothriptic medulloblastoma, covering the transition from the minimal residual disease stage to treatment-resistant regrown tumours. In chromothriptic medulloblastoma, an ecosystem of cells from multiple genetic clones resist treatment and lead to relapse. Finally, we identify tumour microtubes in chromothriptic medulloblastoma, calling for exploration of cell network communication as a putative target.
Self-organized spatial targeting of contractile actomyosin rings for synthetic cell division
Authors: Reverte-López María , Kanwa Nishu , Qutbuddin Yusuf , Belousova Viktoriia , Jasnin Marion , Schwille Petra
Published: November 2024

A key challenge for bottom-up synthetic biology is engineering a minimal module for self-division of synthetic cells. Actin-based cytokinetic rings are considered a promising structure to produce the forces required for the controlled excision of cell-like compartments such as giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). Despite prior demonstrations of actin ring targeting to GUV membranes and myosin-induced constriction, large-scale vesicle deformation has been precluded due to the lacking spatial control of these contractile structures. Here we show the combined reconstitution of actomyosin rings and the bacterial MinDE protein system within GUVs. Incorporating this spatial positioning tool, able to induce active transport of membrane-attached diffusible molecules, yields self-organized equatorial assembly of actomyosin rings in vesicles. Remarkably, the synergistic effect of Min oscillations and the contractility of actomyosin bundles induces mid-vesicle deformations and vesicle blebbing. Our system showcases how functional machineries from various organisms may be combined in vitro, leading to the emergence of functionalities towards a synthetic division system.
Moiré magnetism in CrBr3 multilayers emerging from differential strain
Authors: Yao Fengrui , Rossi Dario , Gabrovski Ivo A. , Multian Volodymyr , Hua Nelson , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Gibertini Marco , Gutiérrez-Lezama Ignacio , Rademaker Louk , Morpurgo Alberto F.
Published: November 2024

Interfaces between twisted 2D materials host a wealth of physical phenomena originating from the long-scale periodicity associated with the resulting moiré structure. Besides twisting, an alternative route to create structures with comparably long—or even longer—periodicities is inducing a differential strain between adjacent layers in a van der Waals (vdW) material. Despite recent theoretical efforts analyzing its benefits, this route has not yet been implemented experimentally. Here we report evidence for the simultaneous presence of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic regions in CrBr3—a hallmark of moiré magnetism—from the observation of an unexpected magnetoconductance in CrBr3 tunnel barriers with ferromagnetic Fe3GeTe2 and graphene electrodes. The observed magnetoconductance evolves with temperature and magnetic field as the magnetoconductance measured in small-angle CrBr3 twisted junctions, in which moiré magnetism occurs. Consistent with Raman measurements and theoretical modeling, we attribute the phenomenon to the presence of a differential strain in the CrBr3 multilayer, which locally modifies the stacking and the interlayer exchange between adjacent CrBr3 layers, resulting in spatially modulated spin textures. Our conclusions indicate that inducing differential strain in vdW multilayers is a viable strategy to create moiré-like superlattices, which in the future may offer in-situ continuous tunability even at low temperatures.
An integrated single-cell atlas of blood immune cells in aging
Authors: Filippov Igor , Schauser Leif , Peterson Pärt
Published: November 2024

Recent advances in single-cell technologies have facilitated studies on age-related alterations in the immune system. However, previous studies have often employed different marker genes to annotate immune cell populations, making it challenging to compare results. In this study, we combined seven single-cell transcriptomic datasets, comprising more than a million cells from one hundred and three donors, to create a unified atlas of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from both young and old individuals. Using a consistent set of marker genes for immune cell annotation, we standardized the classification of immune cells and assessed their prevalence in both age groups. The integrated dataset revealed several consistent trends related to aging, including a decline in CD8+ naive T cells and MAIT cells and an expansion of non-classical monocyte compartments. However, we observed significant variability in other cell types. Our analysis of the long non-coding RNA MALAT1hi T cell population, previously implicated in age-related T cell exhaustion, showed that this population is highly heterogeneous with a mixture of naïve-like and memory-like cells. Despite substantial variation among the datasets when comparing gene expression between age groups, we identified a high-confidence signature of CD8+ naive T cell aging marked by an increased expression of pro-inflammatory genes. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the importance of standardizing existing single-cell datasets to enable the comprehensive examination of age-related cellular changes across multiple datasets.
Phase separation and ageing of glycine-rich protein from tick adhesive
Authors: Ganar Ketan A. , Nandy Manali , Turbina Polina , Chen Chang , Suylen Dennis , Nihoul Elisa , Pascoe Emily Louise , van der Beelen Stan , Plaum Maarten , van den Bos Leendert , Koenraadt Constantianus J. M. , Dijkgraaf Ingrid , Deshpande Siddharth
Published: November 2024

Hard ticks feed on their host for multiple days. To ensure firm attachment, they secrete a protein-rich saliva that eventually forms a solid cement cone. The underlying mechanism of this liquid-to-solid transition is currently not understood. This study focuses on the phase transitions of a disordered glycine-rich protein (GRP) found in tick saliva. We show that GRP undergoes liquid–liquid phase separation via simple coacervation to form biomolecular condensates in salty environments. Cation–π and π–π interactions mediated by periodically placed arginine and aromatic amino-acid residues are the primary driving forces that promote phase separation. Interestingly, GRP condensates exhibit ageing by undergoing liquid-to-gel transition over time and exhibit adhesive properties, similar to the naturally occurring cement cone. Finally, we provide evidence for protein-rich condensates in natural tick saliva. Our findings provide a starting point to gain further insights into the bioadhesion of ticks, to develop novel tick control strategies, and towards achieving biomedical applications such as tissue sealants.
Light-based gamma entrainment with novel invisible spectral flicker stimuli
Authors: Hansen Luna S. , Carstensen Marcus H. , Henney Mark A. , Nguyen N. Mai , Thorning-Schmidt Martin W. , Broeng Jes , Petersen Paul Michael , Andersen Tobias S.
Published: November 2024

Light-based gamma entrainment using sensory stimuli (GENUS) shows considerable potential for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in both animal and human models. While the clinical efficacy of GENUS for AD is paramount, its effectiveness will eventually also rely on the barrier to treatment adherence imposed by the discomfort of gazing at luminance flickering (LF) light. Currently, there have been few attempts to improve the comfort of GENUS. Here we investigate if Invisible spectral flicker (ISF), a novel type of light-based 40 Hz GENUS for which the flicker is almost imperceptible, can be used as a more comfortable option. We found that whereas ISF, LF, and chromatic flicker (CF) all produce a 40 Hz steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP), ISF scores significantly better on measures of comfort and perceived flicker. We also demonstrate that, while there is a trend towards a lower SSVEP response, reducing the stimulation brightness has no significant effect on the 40 Hz SSVEP or perceived flicker, though it significantly improves comfort. Finally, there is a slight decrease in the 40 Hz SSVEP response when stimulating with ISF from increasingly peripheral angles. This may ease the discomfort of GENUS treatment by freeing patients from gazing directly at the light.
Face mask identification with enhanced cuckoo optimization and deep learning-based faster regional neural network
Authors: Pandey Binay Kumar , Pandey Digvijay , Lelisho Mesfin Esayas
Published: November 2024

A mask identification and social distance monitoring system using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) in the outdoors has been proposed for a health establishment. The above approach performed surveillance of the surrounding area using cameras installed in UAVs and internet of things technologies, and the captured images seem useful for tracking the entire environment. However, innate images from unmanned aerial vehicles show an adaptable visual effect in an uncontrolled environment, making face-mask detection and recognition harder. The UAV picture first had to be converted to grayscale, then its contrast was amplified. Image contrast was improved using Optimum Wavelet-Based Masking and the Enhanced Cuckoo Methodology (ECM). According to the contrast-enhanced image, Gabor-Transform (GT) and Stroke Width Transform (SWT) methods are used to derive attributes that help categorise mask-wearers and non-mask-wearers. Using the retrieved attributes, a Weighted Naive Bayes Classification (WNBC) detected masks in the images. Additionally, a deep neural network-based, the faster Region-Based Convolutional Neural Networks (R-CNN) algorithm combined with Adaptive Galactic Swarm Optimization (AGSO) is being used to identify appropriate and incorrect face mask wear in images, as well as to monitor social distancing among individuals in crowded areas. When the system recognises unmasked individuals, it sends their information to the doctor and the nearby police station. One unmanned aerial vehicle’s automated system alert people via speakers, ensuring social spacing. The problem involves a large percentage of appropriate and incorrect face mask wear using data from GitHub and Kaggle, including a training repository of 16,000 images and a testing data set of 12,751 images. To enhance the performance of the model’s learning, the methodology of 10-fold cross-validation will be used. Precision, recall, F1-score, and speed are then measured to determine the efficacy of the suggested approach.
Mechanical characteristics and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus of sustainable cellulosic paper coated with Ag and Cu modified ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Geioushy Ramadan A. , El-Sherbiny Samya , Mohamed Eslam T. , Fouad Osama A. , Samir Marwa
Published: November 2024

In this study, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were prepared and modified using a wet chemical method with different concentrations of Ag and Cu nanoparticles. The objective was to improve the mechanical, optical, and antibacterial properties of the coated paper by using the prepared pigments. The long-term antimicrobial effects of the coated paper were evaluated over 25 years. The successful synthesis of a hexagonal structure of ZnO nanoparticles decorated with spherical Ag and Cu nanoparticles ranging from 20 to 50 nm was confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). By increasing the concentrations of Ag and Cu from 0.01% to 1.0%, the mechanical properties of the coated paper were enhanced. The tensile strength reached a maximum of 6.77 kN/m and 7.03 kN/m, elongation increased to 1.69% and 1.70%, tensile energy absorption improved to approximately 77 and 80 J/m2, and burst strength rose to 218 and 219 kPa, respectively. The use of Ag-modified ZnO maintains the optical properties, while Cu-modified ZnO reduces brightness and whiteness without affecting opacity. The antimicrobial inhibition activity was improved with higher silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) content. The formulations containing 1% Ag/ZnO and 1%Cu/ZnO showed long-lasting antibacterial effects against gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Even after 25 years of aging, they maintained inhibition rates of 92.2% and 62.2%, respectively. The molecular docking and GeneMANIA analysis revealed the potential of ZnO, Ag-modified ZnO, and Cu-modified ZnO nanoparticles to disrupt the S. aureus cell wall biosynthesis pathway by targeting the MurA enzyme and associated cell wall synthesis genes.
De-identification is not enough: a comparison between de-identified and synthetic clinical notes
Authors: Sarkar Atiquer Rahman , Chuang Yao-Shun , Mohammed Noman , Jiang Xiaoqian
Published: November 2024

For sharing privacy-sensitive data, de-identification is commonly regarded as adequate for safeguarding privacy. Synthetic data is also being considered as a privacy-preserving alternative. Recent successes with numerical and tabular data generative models and the breakthroughs in large generative language models raise the question of whether synthetically generated clinical notes could be a viable alternative to real notes for research purposes. In this work, we demonstrated that (i) de-identification of real clinical notes does not protect records against a membership inference attack, (ii) proposed a novel approach to generate synthetic clinical notes using the current state-of-the-art large language models, (iii) evaluated the performance of the synthetically generated notes in a clinical domain task, and (iv) proposed a way to mount a membership inference attack where the target model is trained with synthetic data. We observed that when synthetically generated notes closely match the performance of real data, they also exhibit similar privacy concerns to the real data. Whether other approaches to synthetically generated clinical notes could offer better trade-offs and become a better alternative to sensitive real notes warrants further investigation.
Feasibility, classification and potential clinical impact of non-invasive delineation of abdominal lymphatic vessels in patients following TCPC with T2 weighted MRI
Authors: Hanser Anja , Hofbeck Michael , Hofmeister Melanie , Martirosian Petros , Hornung Andreas , Esser Michael , Schick Fritz , Küstner Thomas , Kaulitz Renate , Michel Jörg , Nikolaou Konstantin , Schäfer Jürgen , Schlensak Christian , Baden Winfried , Nordmeyer Johannes , Sieverding Ludger
Published: November 2024

Recent research in patients with functionally univentricular hearts (UVH) is focusing on pathologies of the lymphatic vessels. Morphology of the abdominal lymphatic vessels was analyzed by MRI in patients with UVH following total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) and it was examined, if clinical and laboratory parameters correlate with changes after TCPC. We prospectively examined 33 patients at the age of 19.8 (14.6;30.2) years [median (Q1;Q3)] after TCPC (follow-up 14.3 years (9.7;24.9) with a heavily T2-weighted MRI sequence on a 3.0 T scanner. Examinations in coronal orientation were performed with respiratory gating, slice thickness 0.6 mm, TR 2400 ms, TE 692 ms, FoV 460 mm (covering thoracic and abdominal regions), scan time 14:41 min (13:18;16:30) after a solid meal and a cup of pineapple juice. The findings were classified according to delineation of abdominal lymphatic vessels. Type 1: <3 abdominal vessels (av) definable; type 2: 4–6 av definable; type 3: >6 av and/or oedematous changes or ascites. The results were correlated with parameters obtained at the annual routine check-up. Statistical analysis was performed using U-test and Chi-square test. Fifteen patients (group 1) showed type 3 lymphatic morphologies, two of which had ascites. Eighteen patients (group 2) showed lower grade morphologies (type 1–2). Image quality was rated considering the delineation of the common hepatic duct and did not differ between groups (p = 0.134). “Lymphatic burden” was automatically examined and was indexed to the number of delineated abdominal vessels and showed quantification according to the chosen categories type 1–3. Patients in group 1 were younger at MRI examination (17.4;14.3/18.9 vs. 26.2;18.2/32.3 years, p = 0.03). Superior cavopulmonary connection (SCPC) had been performed earlier in group 1 (9.9;7.9/25.5 vs. 29.2;13.7/66.6 months, p = 0.018). Laboratory examinations in group 1 showed lower levels for Immunoglobulin G (IgG), Lipase, α-Antitrypsin, Cystatin C and TSH. There were no significant differences for total protein, NTproBNP, lymphocytes or platelets. A history of chylothorax was present in 7/15 versus 2/18 p = 0.022. Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) occurred in 4/15 versus 1/18 (p = 0.092). T2 weighted MRI is feasible for noninvasive delineation of abdominal lymphatic vessel in patients following TCPC. In the long-term follow-up, patients with more pronounced changes of the abdominal lymphatic vessels were younger at SCPC and were more likely to show a history of chylothorax and lower IgG values.
Spatial profiling of the mouse colonic immune landscape associated with colitis and sex
Authors: Holm Matilda , Stepanauskaitė Lina , Bäckström Anna , Birgersson Madeleine , Socciarelli Fabio , Archer Amena , Stadler Charlotte , Williams Cecilia
Published: November 2024

Inflammatory intestinal conditions are a major disease burden. Numerous factors shape the distribution of immune cells in the colon, but a spatial characterization of the homeostatic and inflamed colonic immune microenvironment is lacking. Here, we use the COMET platform for multiplex immunofluorescence to profile the infiltration of nine immune cell populations in mice of both sexes (N = 16) with full spatial context, including in regions of squamous metaplasia. Unsupervised clustering, neighborhood analysis, and manual quantification along the proximal-distal axis characterized the colonic immune landscape, quantified cell-cell interactions, and revealed sex differences. The distal colon was the most affected region during colitis, which was pronounced in males, who exhibited a sex-dependent increase of B cells and reduction of M2-like macrophages. Regions of squamous metaplasia exhibited strong infiltration of numerous immune cell populations, especially in males. Females exhibited more helper T cells and neutrophils at homeostasis and increased M2-like macrophage infiltration in the mid-colon upon colitis. Sex differences were corroborated by plasma cytokine profiles. Our results provide a foundation for future studies of inflammatory intestinal conditions.
Heterochromatin-dependent transcription links the PRC2 complex to small RNA-mediated DNA elimination
Authors: Solberg Therese , Wang Chundi , Matsubara Ryuma , Wen Zhiwei , Nowacki Mariusz
Published: November 2024

Facultative heterochromatin is marked by the repressive histone modification H3K27me3 in eukaryotes. Deposited by the PRC2 complex, H3K27me3 is essential for regulating gene expression during development, and chromatin bearing this mark is generally considered transcriptionally inert. The PRC2 complex has also been linked to programmed DNA elimination during development in ciliates such as Paramecium. Due to a lack of mechanistic insight, a direct involvement has been questioned as most eliminated DNA segments in Paramecium are shorter than the size of a nucleosome. Here, we identify two sets of histone methylation readers essential for PRC2-mediated DNA elimination in Paramecium: Firefly1/2 and Mayfly1-4. The chromodomain proteins Firefly1/2 act in tight association with TFIIS4, a transcription elongation factor required for noncoding RNA transcription. These noncoding transcripts act as scaffolds for sequence-specific targeting by PIWI-bound sRNAs, resulting in local nucleosome depletion and DNA elimination. Our findings elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the role of PRC2 in PIWI-mediated DNA elimination and suggest that its role in IES elimination may be to activate rather than repress transcription.
A 3D bioprinted adhesive tissue engineering scaffold to repair ischemic heart injury
Authors: Chen Shuai , Tan Lindan , Serpooshan Vahid , Chen Haifeng
Published: November 2024

The design and fabrication of 3D printed ATESs with in vivo adhesion and application potential, shape design capability, as well as accessible and convenient fabrication and application process.
An ionic liquid-based delivery system of small interfering RNA targeting Bcl-2 for melanoma therapy
Authors: Xing Yuyuan , Hu Yanhui , Wang Hongyan , Diao Yanyan , Yue Hua
Published: November 2024

A novel IL-based delivery system effectively delivered siBcl-2 into melanoma cells and led to significant apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo, providing compelling evidence for remarkable antitumor effects.
Intact water adsorption on Co(0001) at 100 K: transition from ordered bilayer to amorphous ice structures
Authors: Yi Ping , Jiang Yalong , Cao Yitian , Liu Fangfang , Zhu Yun , Xu Jiayi , Yang Zechao , Huang Chuanqi , Yang Wenshao , Mao Hongying , Zhong Jian-Qiang
Published: November 2024

The adsorption behavior of water on the Co(0001) surface at 100 K was studied. Ordered (√3 × √3)R30° D2O bilayer D-up and D-down configurations were identified, along with their transitions to amorphous ice structures.
High selectivity of CO2 capture with single- and double-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Winarto  , Yuliati Lilis , Purnami  , Brumby Paul E. , Yasuoka Kenji
Published: November 2024

CNTs prefer to adsorb CO2 instead of N2, resulting in a separation effect for flue gas. CO2 forms solid ice structure in the CNTs that enhance the separation effect.
Denatured bovine serum albumin particle decorated graphene oxide nanocomposite for ultrasensitive resistive humidity sensing
Authors: Qi Pan , Zhang Yongkang , Zhang Ziang , Li Xiaobing , Guo Cunlan
Published: November 2024

A nanofilm fabricated via hydrogen bonding by integrating dBSA and GO exhibits excellent current responsiveness to humidity fluctuations and is successfully used in respiration monitoring and simulating non-contact sensing applications.
Novel sigma 1-antagonists with cis-(+)-normetazocine scaffold: synthesis, molecular modeling, and antinociceptive effect
Authors: Costanzo Giuliana , Cosentino Giuseppe , Grasso Margherita , Patamia Vincenzo , Zuccalà Sara , Coco Alessandro , Novello Elisabetta , Al-Khrasani Mahmoud , Morrone Raffaele , Pitari Giovanni Mario , Amata Emanuele , Marrazzo Agostino , Rescifina Antonio , Pasquinucci Lorella , Parenti Carmela
Published: November 2024

Compound 7 exhibited high σ1R affinity and selectivity and produced a potent antinociceptive effect in a mouse model of inflammatory pain. Molecular modeling studies were performed to analyze its key interactions with σ1R.
Template-annealing-assisted fabrication of Au/TiO2/Ni nanopetal arrays as ultrasensitive and reproducible SERS substrates with super long-term stability
Authors: Lin Qi , Zheng Chunfang , Qian Weicong , Yuan Ning , Fu Qun , Lei Yong
Published: November 2024

Template-annealing-assisted fabrication of 3D Au/TiO2/Ni petal-like nanoarrays exhibiting ultrasensitive (as low as 10−13 M) and reproducible SERS response to R6G and CV molecules with super long-term stability (372 days) at 632.8-nm excitation.
Facile synthesis of size-controllable gold nanoflowers on carbon nanotube sheets as high-performance flexible SERS sensors
Authors: Xiao Zuo , Li Xuhuan , Yang Rong , Fang Weichen , Shen Xiaodong , Cao Yang , Xin Wenbo
Published: November 2024

Flexible surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates are assembled by flexible matrices and plasmonic metal nanocrystals.
Microporous covalent organic frameworks via flexible units and rich heteroatoms for gas uptake and radioactive iodine uptake
Authors: Ge Chenshuang , Zhao Wanyi , Zhang Yuwei , Zhang Xueyan , Zhi Yongfeng
Published: November 2024

Imine-linked FM-COFs, featuring nitrogen-enriched microporous architectures, exhibit superior host-guest interactions and adsorption performance, achieving CO2 uptake of 82.6 cm3 g−1 (273 K) and iodine capacity of 3.98 g g−1 (350 K), excelling in selective gas capture and radionuclide sequestration.
Chemical modification of selenium-containing amino acids caused by non-thermal dielectric-barrier discharge atmospheric-pressure plasma
Authors: Afzal Fahd , Śmiłowicz Dariusz , Kogelheide Friederike , Schöne Anna Lena , Stapelmann Katharina , Awakowicz Peter , Metzler-Nolte Nils
Published: November 2024

Herein, we present an investigation of the chemical modifications of selenium-containing amino acids which are caused by non-thermal plasma in the presence of redox active iron complexes as well as a redox inert zinc complex.
Electrochemical corrosion behavior of α-titanium alloys in simulated biological environments (comparative study)
Authors: Hrir Hala , Layachi Omar Ait , Boudouma Abderrazzak , El Bouari Abdeslam , Sidimou Abdelaziz Ait , El Marrakchi Mohssine , Khoumri Elmati
Published: November 2024

This study examines the electrochemical behavior of titanium alloys in simulated physiological solutions using OCP, PPC, EIS, SEM, EDS, and AFM to highlight biomolecule adsorption and TiO2 degradation in the presence of H2O2.
Understanding the effects of different loadings on properties of a silicon/carbon anode for lithium batteries
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Shu Zhongjun , Wang Qianqian , Wu Jie , Lu Wanzheng , Wang Qin , Wang Aoqi , Ding Yifan , Ma Mingkun
Published: November 2024

Battery cells based on different silicon/carbon (Si/C) loadings were assembled in this work. Their battery performance, in particular their capacity and cycling stability, was evaluated.
Ir-catalyzed reductive amination and transfer hydrogenation of diketones: access to β- and γ-amino alcohols
Authors: Tong Jinghui , Guo Shilin , Zhu Huajie , Ouyang Lu , Liao Jianhua , Li Youchun
Published: November 2024

A mild protocol for the construction of β-and γ-amino alcohols via an iridium-catalyzes reductive amination and transfer hydrogenation of diketones with aromatic amines is described.
UV-Vis spectroscopy in the characterization and applications of smart microgels and metal nanoparticle-decorated smart microgels: a critical review
Authors: Arif Muhammad , Raza Hamid , Akhter Toheed
Published: November 2024

Smart microgels (SMGs) and metal nanoparticles (MNPs)-decorated smart microgels have garnered significant attention because of their responsive behavior.
Microscopic chemical reaction mechanism of carbon contaminants on the surface of pulse-compressed gratings cleaned by low-pressure plasma
Authors: Li Yuhai , Zheng Tianran , Yuan Qiang , Sun Laixi , Liu Hao , Yuan Xiaodong , Zhang Xin
Published: November 2024

Removing carbon contaminants from the surfaces of pulse-compressed gratings is a critical aspect of maintaining the functionality and efficiency of a chirped pulse amplification system.
Student conceptualizations and predictions of substitution and elimination reactions: what are they seeing on the page?
Authors: Hunter Kevin H. , Groenenboom Lauren A. , Farheen Ayesha , Becker Nicole M.
Published: November 2024

The current study aims to contribute to the literature on how organic chemistry students weigh various factors when predicting products of substitution and elimination reactions. This study focuses specifically on these mechanism types, as they are often the first instances where students must consider the “how” and the “why” of how reactions occur. Previous literature highlights that such reasoning can be challenging. To better support our students, it is essential to understand how they conceptualize these mechanisms. Here, we present results from an investigation into how students compare bimolecular and unimolecular substitution and elimination reactions (SN1, SN2, E1, E2). Students completed tasks involving case comparisons and “predict-the-product” exercises. Through the analysis of nine semi-structured interviews using coordination class theory, we found that (1) students placed a greater emphasis on the importance of the starting substrate in the outcome of a reaction, and (2) focused less on the function of the nucleophile or base in each reaction. Using coordination class theory, we identified visual features and knowledge elements that students coordinated, allowing us to create “resource graphs” that represented students’ conceptualizations. These graphs helped visualize the trajectories of students’ predictions by illustrating how they balanced multiple factors. We discuss implications for supporting students in distinguishing among reaction mechanisms.
Ruthenaelectro-catalyzed C–H phosphorylation: ortho to para position-selectivity switch
Authors: Gou Xue-Ya , Oliveira João C. A. , Chen Shan , Homölle Simon L. , Trienes Sven , von Münchow Tristan , Zhang Bo-Sheng , Ackermann Lutz
Published: November 2024

Sustainable ruthenaelectro-catalyzed position-selective ortho- and para-C–H phosphorylation of arenes by HER enabled late-stage functionalization, and the catalyst's mode of action was unraveled through experimental and computational studies.
Electronic structure of CsPbBr3 with isovalent doping and divacancies: the smallest metal Pb cluster
Authors: Cui Xiangyue , Wang Bowen , Zhang Dandan , Chen Hongfei , Yan Hejin , Shu Zheng , Cai Yongqing
Published: November 2024

This study proves the existence of bromine vacancies cluster in pairs and the ease formation of Cl and I substituted dopants in CsPbBr3, which provides critical insight into complex defects in all-inorganic metal halide perovskites.
Value-added upcycling of spent low-nickel into a high-nickel layered oxide cathode via a eutectic salt system
Authors: Li Mengyuan , Shao Di , Mao Zhihao , Fan Zengjie , Xu Lei , Dou Hui , Peng Zuling , Ding Bing , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: November 2024

A value-added upcycling method is presented for transforming spent low-nickel into high-nickel NCM material. This method not only restores the layered structure of the NCM materials but also improves their electrochemical performances.
A NiSe layer enhanced the efficiency of hole-conductor-free MAPbI3 perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lu Xiaohui , Zhao Xiandong , Wu Congcong , Wang Shiming , Li Yanyan , Yang Xiaojie , Li Yang , Zhao Li
Published: November 2024

The introduction of NiSe effectively reduces the defect density within the device and lowers the interfacial energy transfer barrier.
Effects of the Fe/Ni ratio in double half-Heusler composition HfFe1−xNixSb
Authors: Imasato Kazuki , Sauerschnig Philipp , Miyata Masanobu , Ishida Takao , Yamamoto Atsushi , Ohta Michihiro
Published: November 2024

The adjustment of the Fe/Ni ratio in the double half-Heusler composition HfFexNi1−xSb leads to a p-type to n-type transition. The thermoelectric figures of merit zT = 0.36 and 0.22 at 950 K for n- and p-type, respectively, were demonstrated.
Benzil-imidazole blue fluorophores and their applications in blue/white light-emitting diodes, sensing and anticounterfeiting
Authors: Debata Bhabana Priyadarshini , Thiyagarajan Manojkumar Dhanthala , R. Prathap , Girase Jaipal Devesing , Iyer Sathiyanarayanan Kulathu , Patel Sabita , Vaidyanathan Sivakumar
Published: November 2024

A series of benzilimidazole-based D–π–A blue fluorophores are designed, synthesized and applied for generation of blue/white light-emitting diodes, sensing of picric acid and acid–base vapor as well as anticounterfeiting.
Thickness-dependent quasi-two-dimensional β-Ga2O3 solar-blind photodetectors prepared via GaSe oxidation
Authors: Hu Jianwen , He Kexin , Long Haoran , Hu Yin , Ci Penghong , Liu Yueyang , Zhang Jing , Liu Liyuan , Yang Juehan , Wei Zhongming
Published: November 2024

β-Ga2O3 nanosheets are prepared by GaSe oxidation, and the thickness dependence of their photodetectors are investigated. The operational stability of the devices improved by decreasing thickness.
Robust by design: Designing ICT infrastructures using Twins
Authors: Baiardi Fabrizio
Published: November 2024

Robust‐by‐design (RbD) is a design strategy that uses adversary emulation to strengthen the security of an information and communication infrastructure. It relies on two key components: the security twin and the threat actor twins. The security twin is a detailed database that outlines the different parts of the infrastructure, how they are connected, and their vulnerabilities. It also highlights the types of attacks each part could enable. On the other hand, the twin of a threat actor describes its potential attack surface, the attacks it can carry out, its strategy, and its ultimate goal, if any. This information comes from threat intelligence. RbD conducts independent simulations of various threat actors against the security twin to identify all possible attack paths they could exploit. Three types of analysis use this information to improve the robustness and resilience of the infrastructure. The first analysis fills in the gaps in threat intelligence by extending information on threat actors and vulnerabilities. The second analysis focuses on selecting countermeasures aimed at eliminating attack paths or at least reducing their chances of success. Possible countermeasures include patching vulnerabilities, adjusting firewall rules, and implementing network segmentation. Information on attack paths guides the choice and configuration of these countermeasures. Once the infrastructure twin is updated to reflect countermeasure deployment, RbD performs further simulations to uncover any new attack paths that could be exploited and to identify additional countermeasures. The final analysis seeks to address the risks associated with any remaining unaddressed attack paths.