bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma metabolomic differences in early-onset compared to average-onset colorectal cancer
Authors: Jayakrishnan Thejus , Mariam Arshiya , Farha Nicole , Rotroff Daniel M. , Aucejo Federico , Barot Shimoli V. , Conces Madison , Nair Kanika G. , Krishnamurthi Smitha S. , Schmit Stephanie L. , Liska David , Khorana Alok A. , Kamath Suneel D.
Published: February 2024

Deleterious effects of environmental exposures may contribute to the rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (eoCRC). We assessed the metabolomic differences between patients with eoCRC, average-onset CRC (aoCRC), and non-CRC controls, to understand pathogenic mechanisms. Patients with stage I–IV CRC and non-CRC controls were categorized based on age ≤ 50 years (eoCRC or young non-CRC controls) or  ≥ 60 years (aoCRC or older non-CRC controls). Differential metabolite abundance and metabolic pathway analyses were performed on plasma samples. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards modeling was used for survival analyses. All P values were adjusted for multiple testing (false discovery rate, FDR P < 0.15 considered significant). The study population comprised 170 patients with CRC (66 eoCRC and 104 aoCRC) and 49 non-CRC controls (34 young and 15 older). Citrate was differentially abundant in aoCRC vs. eoCRC in adjusted analysis (Odds Ratio = 21.8, FDR P = 0.04). Metabolic pathways altered in patients with aoCRC versus eoCRC included arginine biosynthesis, FDR P = 0.02; glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, FDR P = 0.005; citrate cycle, FDR P = 0.04; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, FDR P = 0.01; glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, FDR P = 0.14; and amino-acid t-RNA biosynthesis, FDR P = 0.01. 4-hydroxyhippuric acid was significantly associated with overall survival in all patients with CRC (Hazards ratio, HR = 0.4, 95% CI 0.3–0.7, FDR P = 0.05). We identified several unique metabolic alterations, particularly the significant differential abundance of citrate in aoCRC versus eoCRC. Arginine biosynthesis was the most enriched by the differentially altered metabolites. The findings hold promise in developing strategies for early detection and novel therapies.
Characterization of the chloroplast genome of Gleditsia species and comparative analysis
Authors: Xiao Feng , Zhao Yang , Wang Xiurong , Jian Xueyan
Published: February 2024

The genus Gleditsia has significant medicinal and economic value, but information about the chloroplast genomic characteristics of Gleditsia species has been limited. Using the Illumina sequencing, we assembled and annotated the whole chloroplast genomes of seven Gleditsia species (Gleditsia sinensis, Gleditsia japonica var. delavayi (G. delavayi), G. fera, G. japonica, G. microphylla, Fructus Gleditsiae Abnormalis (Zhū Yá Zào), G. microphylla mutant). The assembled genomes revealed that Gleditsia species have a typical circular tetrad structure, with genome sizes ranging from 162,746 to 170,907 bp. Comparative genomic analysis showed that most (65.8–75.8%) of the abundant simple sequence repeats in Gleditsia and Gymnocladus species were located in the large single copy region. The Gleditsia chloroplast genome prefer T/A-ending codons and avoid C/G-ending codons, positive selection was acting on the rpoA, rpl20, atpB, ndhA and ycf4 genes, most of the chloroplast genes of Gleditsia species underwent purifying selection. Expansion and contraction of the inverted repeat (IR)/single copy (SC) region showed similar patterns within the Gleditsia genus. Polymorphism analysis revealed that coding regions were more conserved than non-coding regions, and the IR region was more conserved than the SC region. Mutational hotspots were mostly found in intergenic regions such as “rps16-trnQ”, “trnT-trnL”, “ndhG-ndhI”, and "rpl32-trnL” in Gleditsia. Phylogenetic analysis showed that G. fera is most closely related to G. sinensis,G. japonica and G. delavayi are relatively closely related. Zhū Yá Zào can be considered a bud mutation of the G. sinensis. The albino phenotype of G. microphylla mutant is not caused by variations in the chloroplast genome, and that the occurrence of the albino phenotype may be due to mutations in chloroplast-related genes involved in splicing or localization functions. This study will help us enhance our exploration of the genetic evolution and geographical origins of the Gleditsia genus.
Serum ferritin predicted prognosis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chen Zetan , Liang Zhongguo , Chen Kaihua , Zhang Shuai , Huang Xiaopeng , Wu Gang , Zhu Xiaodong
Published: February 2024

Elevated serum ferritin (SF) levels have been associated with poor prognosis in various cancer types, but its impact on nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unclear. This retrospective study analyzed clinical data from 252 non-metastatic NPC patients admitted to Hainan General Hospital between January 2014 and May 2016. SF levels were measured using the chemiluminescence method. Patients were categorized into low, medium, and high-level SF groups based on tertile median SF levels. Survival outcomes were assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression models. The overall survival rates of the entire patient cohort at 1, 3, 5, and 8 years were 95.2%, 85.7%, 76.2%, and 68.9% respectively. The high-level SF group (SF > 164.00 ng/mL) had significantly worse overall survival (83.1 vs 96.3 months, P = 0.023) and progression-free survival (77.8 vs 93.3 months, P = 0.019) compared to the low-level SF group. Univariate and multivariate analyses confirmed that high SF levels, along with T3/T4 staging and N3 staging, were independent risk factors for poor prognosis. In conclusion, high SF levels are associated with shorter overall survival and progression-free survival in NPC patients.
Inhibition of epigenetic and cell cycle-related targets in glioblastoma cell lines reveals that onametostat reduces proliferation and viability in both normoxic and hypoxic conditions
Authors: Lavogina Darja , Krõlov Mattias Kaspar , Vellama Hans , Modhukur Vijayachitra , Di Nisio Valentina , Lust Helen , Eskla Kattri-Liis , Salumets Andres , Jaal Jana
Published: February 2024

The choice of targeted therapies for treatment of glioblastoma patients is currently limited, and most glioblastoma patients die from the disease recurrence. Thus, systematic studies in simplified model systems are required to pinpoint the choice of targets for further exploration in clinical settings. Here, we report screening of 5 compounds targeting epigenetic writers or erasers and 6 compounds targeting cell cycle-regulating protein kinases against 3 glioblastoma cell lines following incubation under normoxic or hypoxic conditions. The viability/proliferation assay indicated that PRMT5 inhibitor onametostat was endowed with high potency under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions in cell lines that are strongly MGMT-positive (T98-G), weakly MGMT-positive (U-251 MG), or MGMT-negative (U-87 MG). In U-251 MG and U-87 MG cells, onametostat also affected the spheroid formation at concentrations lower than the currently used chemotherapeutic drug lomustine. In T98-G cell line, treatment with onametostat led to dramatic changes in the transcriptome profile by inducing the cell cycle arrest, suppressing RNA splicing, and down-regulating several major glioblastoma cell survival pathways. Further validation by immunostaining in three cell lines confirmed that onametostat affects cell cycle and causes reduction in nucleolar protein levels. In this way, inhibition of epigenetic targets might represent a viable strategy for glioblastoma treatment even in the case of decreased chemo- and radiation sensitivity, although further studies in clinically more relevant models are required.
The effect of caraway oil-loaded bio-nanoemulsions on the growth and performance of barnyard grass and maize
Authors: Rys Magdalena , Miastkowska Małgorzata , Łętocha Anna , Wajs-Bonikowska Anna , Lorenzo Paula , Synowiec Agnieszka
Published: February 2024

A proper formulation is crucial to improve the herbicidal effects of essential oils and their selectivity. In this study, we investigated the physicochemical properties of bio-based nanoemulsions (CNs) containing several concentrations of caraway (Carum carvi) essential oil stabilized with Eco Tween 80, as a surfactant, maintaining 1:1 proportions. Detailed physicochemical characteristics of the CNs revealed that their properties were most desired at 2% of the oil and surfactant, i.e., the smallest droplet size, polydispersity index, and viscosity. The CNs caused biochemical changes in maize and barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli) seedlings, however, to a different extent. Barnyard grass has overall metabolism (measured as a thermal power) decreased by 39–82% when exposed to the CNs. The CNs triggered changes in the content and composition of carbohydrates in the endosperm of both species' seedlings in a dose–response manner. The foliar application of CNs caused significant damage to tissues of young maize and barnyard grass plants. The effective dose of the CN (ED50, causing a 50% damage) was 5% and 17.5% oil in CN for barnyard grass and maize tissues, respectively. Spraying CNs also decreased relative water content in leaves and affected the efficiency of photosynthesis by disturbing the electron transport chain. We found that barnyard grass was significantly more susceptible to the foliar application of CNs than maize, which could be used to selectively control this species in maize crops. However, further studies are needed to verify this hypothesis under field conditions.
Identification of differentially expressed miRNAs associated with diamide detoxification pathways in Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Mahalle Rashmi Manohar , Sun Weilin , Posos-Parra Omar A. , Jung Sunghoon , Mota-Sanchez David , Pittendrigh Barry R. , Seong Keon Mook
Published: February 2024

The fall armyworm (FAW)Spodoptera frugiperdais a severe economic pest of multiple crops globally. Control of this pest is often achieved using insecticides; however, over time,S.frugiperdahas developed resistance to new mode of action compounds, including diamides. Previous studies have indicated diamide resistance is a complex developmental process involving multiple detoxification genes. Still, the mechanism underlying the possible involvement of microRNAs in post-transcriptional regulation of resistance has not yet been elucidated. In this study, a global screen of microRNAs (miRNAs) revealed 109 known and 63 novel miRNAs. Nine miRNAs (four known and five novel) were differentially expressed between insecticide-resistant and -susceptible strains. Gene Ontology analysis predicted putative target transcripts of the differentially expressed miRNAs encoding significant genes belonging to detoxification pathways. Additionally, miRNAs are involved in response to diamide exposure, indicating they are probably associated with the detoxification pathway. Thus, this study provides comprehensive evidence for the link between repressed miRNA expression and induced target transcripts that possibly mediate diamide resistance through post-transcriptional regulation. These findings highlight important clues for further research to unravel the roles and mechanisms of miRNAs in conferring diamide resistance.
Prediction of effectiveness of universal rotavirus vaccination in Southwestern Vietnam based on a dynamic mathematical model
Authors: Lee Taeyong , Kang Ji-Man , Ahn Jong Gyun , Thuy Truong Dung Thi , Nguyen Thuong Vu , Ho Thang Vinh , Thanh Ton Ha Thi , Le Hoang Phuc , Kim Min Young , Yeom Joon-Sup , Lee Jeehyun
Published: February 2024

Vaccinating young children against rotavirus (RV) is a promising preventive strategy against rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE). We evaluated the relative risk reduction of RVGE induced by universal vaccination in Vietnam through dynamic model analysis. We developed an age-stratified dynamic Vaccinated-Susceptible-Infectious-Recovered-Susceptible model to analyze RV transmission and assess vaccine effectiveness (VE). We assumed 3 different vaccine efficacies: 55%, 70%, and 85%. For model calibration, we used a database of patients under 5 years of age admitted to Ho Chi Minh No.1 Hospital with RVGE between January 2013 and December 2018. Assuming a vaccination rate of 95%, the number of RVGE hospitalizations after 5 years from universal RV vaccination decreased from 92,502 cases to 45,626 with 85% efficacy, to 54,576 cases with 70% efficacy, and to 63,209 cases with 55% efficacy. Additionally, RVGE hospitalizations after 10 years decreased from 177,950 to 89,517 with 85% efficacy and to 121,832 cases with 55% efficacy. The relative risk reductions of RVGE after 10 years were 49.7% with 85% efficacy, 40.6% with 70% efficacy, and 31.5% with 55% efficacy. The VE was 1.10 times (95% CI, 1.01–1.22) higher in the 4-months to 1-year-old age group than in the other age groups (P = 0.038), when applying 85% efficacy with 95% coverage. In conclusion, despite its relatively lower efficacy compared to high-income countries, RV vaccination remains an effective intervention in Southwestern Vietnam. In particular, implementing universal RV vaccination with higher coverage would result in a decrease in RVGE hospitalizations among Vietnamese children under 5 years of age.
Haplotype information of large neuromuscular disease genes provided by linked-read sequencing has a potential to increase diagnostic yield
Authors: Lehtonen Johanna , Sulonen Anna-Maija , Almusa Henrikki , Lehtokari Vilma-Lotta , Johari Mridul , Palva Aino , Hakonen Anna H. , Wartiovaara Kirmo , Lehesjoki Anna-Elina , Udd Bjarne , Wallgren-Pettersson Carina , Pelin Katarina , Savarese Marco , Saarela Janna
Published: February 2024

Rare or novel missense variants in large genes such as TTN and NEB are frequent in the general population, which hampers the interpretation of putative disease-causing biallelic variants in patients with sporadic neuromuscular disorders. Often, when the first initial genetic analysis is performed, the reconstructed haplotype, i.e. phasing information of the variants is missing. Segregation analysis increases the diagnostic turnaround time and is not always possible if samples from family members are lacking. To overcome this difficulty, we investigated how well the linked-read technology succeeded to phase variants in these large genes, and whether it improved the identification of structural variants. Linked-read sequencing data of nemaline myopathy, distal myopathy, and proximal myopathy patients were analyzed for phasing, single nucleotide variants, and structural variants. Variant phasing was successful in the large muscle genes studied. The longest continuous phase blocks were gained using high-quality DNA samples with long DNA fragments. Homozygosity increased the number of phase blocks, especially in exome sequencing samples lacking intronic variation. In our cohort, linked-read sequencing added more information about the structural variation but did not lead to a molecular genetic diagnosis. The linked-read technology can support the clinical diagnosis of neuromuscular and other genetic disorders.
Impairment of unconscious emotional processing after unilateral medial temporal structure resection
Authors: Sato Wataru , Usui Naotaka , Kondo Akihiko , Kubota Yasutaka , Toichi Motomi , Inoue Yushi
Published: February 2024

The role of the amygdala in unconscious emotional processing remains a topic of debate. Past lesion studies have indicated that amygdala damage leads to impaired electrodermal activity in response to subliminally presented emotional stimuli. However, electrodermal activity can reflect both emotional and nonemotional processes. To provide behavioral evidence highlighting the critical role of the amygdala in unconscious emotional processing, we examined patients (n = 16) who had undergone unilateral resection of medial temporal lobe structures, including the amygdala. We utilized the subliminal affective priming paradigm in conjunction with unilateral visual presentation. Fearful or happy dynamic facial expressions were presented in unilateral visual fields for 30 ms, serving as negative or positive primes. Subsequently, neutral target faces were displayed, and participants were tasked with rating the valence of these targets. Positive primes, compared to negative ones, enhanced valence ratings of the target to a greater extent when they stimulated the intact hemisphere (i.e., were presented in the contralateral visual field of the intact hemisphere) than when they stimulated the resected hemisphere (i.e., were presented in the contralateral visual field of the resected hemisphere). These results suggest that the amygdala is causally involved in unconscious emotional processing.
Galacto-oligosaccharide preconditioning improves metabolic activity and engraftment of Limosilactobacillus reuteri and stimulates osteoblastogenesis ex vivo
Authors: De Bruyn Florac , Bonnet Nicolas , Baruchet Michaël , Sabatier Magalie , Breton Isabelle , Bourqui Bertrand , Jankovic Ivana , Horcajada Marie-Noëlle , Prioult Guénolée
Published: February 2024

A probiotic-related benefit for the host is inherently linked to metabolic activity and integration in the gut ecosystem. To facilitate these, probiotics are often combined with specific prebiotics in a synbiotic formulation. Here, we propose an approach for improving probiotic metabolic activity and engraftment. By cultivating the probiotic strain in the presence of a specific prebiotic (preconditioning), the bacterial enzymatic machinery is geared towards prebiotic consumption. Today, it is not known if preconditioning constitutes an advantage for the synbiotic concept. Therefore, we assessed the effects galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) addition and preconditioning on GOS of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 on ex vivo colonic metabolic profiles, microbial community dynamics, and osteoblastogenesis. We show that adding GOS and preconditioning L. reuteri DSM 17938 act on different scales, yet both increase ex vivo short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and engraftment within the microbial community. Furthermore, preconditioned supernatants or SCFA cocktails mirroring these profiles decrease the migration speed of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts, increase several osteogenic differentiation markers, and stimulate bone mineralization. Thus, our results demonstrate that preconditioning of L. reuteri with GOS may represent an incremental advantage for synbiotics by optimizing metabolite production, microbial engraftment, microbiome profile, and increased osteoblastogenesis.
Animal naming test stratifies the risk of falls and fall-related fractures in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Miwa Takao , Hanai Tatsunori , Hirata Sachiyo , Nishimura Kayoko , Unome Shinji , Nakahata Yuki , Imai Kenji , Shirakami Yohei , Suetsugu Atsushi , Takai Koji , Shimizu Masahito
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to determine the relationship between animal naming test (ANT), falls, and fall-related fractures in patients with cirrhosis. Cognitive impairment and frailty were assessed using ANT and Karnofsky performance status (KPS), respectively. Factors stratifying the risk of previous falls and fall-related fractures within 1 year were assessed using a logistic regression model. Factors affecting patient performance in ANT were evaluated using multiple regression analysis. Of the 94 patients, 19% and 5% experienced falls and fall-related fractures, respectively. The performance in ANT was worse in patients who experienced falls (11 vs. 18; p < 0.001) and fall-related fractures (8 vs. 16; p < 0.001) than in those who did not. After adjustment, females, KPS, and ANT (odds ratio [OR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65–0.93; p = 0.005) were associated with falls, while ANT was significantly associated with fall-related fractures (OR, 0.56; 95% CI 0.35–0.88; p = 0.012). Age and education affected the performance in ANT, whereas the use of Oriental zodiac did not. The ANT is useful for stratifying the risk of falls and fall-related fractures in patients with cirrhosis. The effects of age and education should be considered when applying ANT in the Japanese population.
Performance analysis and knowledge-based quality assurance of critical organ auto-segmentation for pediatric craniospinal irradiation
Authors: Hanna Emeline M. , Sargent Emma , Hua Chia-ho , Merchant Thomas E. , Ates Ozgur
Published: February 2024

Craniospinal irradiation (CSI) is a vital therapeutic approach utilized for young patients suffering from central nervous system disorders such as medulloblastoma. The task of accurately outlining the treatment area is particularly time-consuming due to the presence of several sensitive organs at risk (OAR) that can be affected by radiation. This study aimed to assess two different methods for automating the segmentation process: an atlas technique and a deep learning neural network approach. Additionally, a novel method was devised to prospectively evaluate the accuracy of automated segmentation as a knowledge-based quality assurance (QA) tool. Involving a patient cohort of 100, ranging in ages from 2 to 25 years with a median age of 8, this study employed quantitative metrics centered around overlap and distance calculations to determine the most effective approach for practical clinical application. The contours generated by two distinct methods of atlas and neural network were compared to ground truth contours approved by a radiation oncologist, utilizing 13 distinct metrics. Furthermore, an innovative QA tool was conceptualized, designed for forthcoming cases based on the baseline dataset of 100 patient cases. The calculated metrics indicated that, in the majority of cases (60.58%), the neural network method demonstrated a notably higher alignment with the ground truth. Instances where no difference was observed accounted for 31.25%, while utilization of the atlas method represented 8.17%. The QA tool results showed that the two approaches achieved 100% agreement in 39.4% of instances for the atlas method and in 50.6% of instances for the neural network auto-segmentation. The results indicate that the neural network approach showcases superior performance, and its significantly closer physical alignment to ground truth contours in the majority of cases. The metrics derived from overlap and distance measurements have enabled clinicians to discern the optimal choice for practical clinical application.
The exocyst complex and intracellular vesicles mediate soluble protein trafficking to the primary cilium
Authors: Niedziółka S. M. , Datta S. , Uśpieński T. , Baran B. , Skarżyńska W. , Humke E. W. , Rohatgi R. , Niewiadomski P.
Published: February 2024

The efficient transport of proteins into the primary cilium is a crucial step for many signaling pathways. Dysfunction of this process can lead to the disruption of signaling cascades or cilium assembly, resulting in developmental disorders and cancer. Previous studies on the protein delivery to the cilium were mostly focused on the membrane-embedded receptors. In contrast, how soluble proteins are delivered into the cilium is poorly understood. In our work, we identify the exocyst complex as a key player in the ciliary trafficking of soluble Gli transcription factors. In line with the known function of the exocyst in intracellular vesicle transport, we demonstrate that soluble proteins, including Gli2/3 and Lkb1, can use the endosome recycling machinery for their delivery to the primary cilium. Finally, we identify GTPases: Rab14, Rab18, Rab23, and Arf4 that are involved in vesicle-mediated Gli protein ciliary trafficking. Our data pave the way for a better understanding of ciliary transport and uncover transport mechanisms inside the cell.
Development of a 3D tracking system for multiple marmosets under free-moving conditions
Authors: Yurimoto Terumi , Kumita Wakako , Sato Kenya , Kikuchi Rika , Oka Gohei , Shibuki Yusuke , Hashimoto Rino , Kamioka Michiko , Hayasegawa Yumi , Yamazaki Eiko , Kurotaki Yoko , Goda Norio , Kitakami Junichi , Fujita Tatsuya , Inoue Takashi , Sasaki Erika
Published: February 2024

Assessment of social interactions and behavioral changes in nonhuman primates is useful for understanding brain function changes during life events and pathogenesis of neurological diseases. The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), which lives in a nuclear family like humans, is a useful model, but longitudinal automated behavioral observation of multiple animals has not been achieved. Here, we developed a Full Monitoring and Animal Identification (FulMAI) system for longitudinal detection of three-dimensional (3D) trajectories of each individual in multiple marmosets under free-moving conditions by combining video tracking, Light Detection and Ranging, and deep learning. Using this system, identification of each animal was more than 97% accurate. Location preferences and inter-individual distance could be calculated, and deep learning could detect grooming behavior. The FulMAI system allows us to analyze the natural behavior of individuals in a family over their lifetime and understand how behavior changes due to life events together with other data.
On the stability of canonical correlation analysis and partial least squares with application to brain-behavior associations
Authors: Helmer Markus , Warrington Shaun , Mohammadi-Nejad Ali-Reza , Ji Jie Lisa , Howell Amber , Rosand Benjamin , Anticevic Alan , Sotiropoulos Stamatios N. , Murray John D.
Published: February 2024

Associations between datasets can be discovered through multivariate methods like Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) or Partial Least Squares (PLS). A requisite property for interpretability and generalizability of CCA/PLS associations is stability of their feature patterns. However, stability of CCA/PLS in high-dimensional datasets is questionable, as found in empirical characterizations. To study these issues systematically, we developed a generative modeling framework to simulate synthetic datasets. We found that when sample size is relatively small, but comparable to typical studies, CCA/PLS associations are highly unstable and inaccurate; both in their magnitude and importantly in the feature pattern underlying the association. We confirmed these trends across two neuroimaging modalities and in independent datasets with n ≈ 1000 and n = 20,000, and found that only the latter comprised sufficient observations for stable mappings between imaging-derived and behavioral features. We further developed a power calculator to provide sample sizes required for stability and reliability of multivariate analyses. Collectively, we characterize how to limit detrimental effects of overfitting on CCA/PLS stability, and provide recommendations for future studies.
Dynamical localization transition in the non-Hermitian lattice gauge theory
Authors: Cheng Jun-Qing , Yin Shuai , Yao Dao-Xin
Published: February 2024

Local constraint in the lattice gauge theory provides an exotic mechanism that facilitates the disorder-free localization. However, the understanding of nonequilibrium dynamics in the non-Hermitian lattice gauge model remains limited. Here, we investigate the quench dynamics in a system of spinless fermions with nonreciprocal hopping in the $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

Z

2

gauge field. By employing a duality mapping, we systematically explore the non-Hermitian skin effect, localization-delocalization transition, and real-complex transition. Through the identification of diverse scaling behaviors of quantum mutual information for fermions and spins, we propose that the non-Hermitian quantum disentangled liquids exist both in the localized and delocalized phases, the former originates from the $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

Z

2

gauge field and the latter arises from the non-Hermitian skin effect. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the nonreciprocal dissipation causes the flow of quantum information. Our results provide valuable insights into the nonequilibrium dynamics in the gauge field, and may be experimentally validated using quantum simulators.
From flocking to glassiness in dense disordered polar active matter
Authors: Paoluzzi Matteo , Levis Demian , Pagonabarraga Ignacio
Published: February 2024

Living materials such as biological tissues or bacterial colonies are collections of heterogeneous entities of different sizes, capable of autonomous motion, and often capable of cooperating. Such a degree of complexity brings to collective motion on large scales. However, how the competition between geometrical frustration, autonomous motion, and the tendency to move cooperatively impact large-scale behavior remains an open question. We implement those three ingredients in a model of active matter and show that the system, in forming migratory patterns, can arrange in bands or develop long-range order, depending on the density of the system. We also show that the active material undergoes a reentrant glass transition triggered by the alignment interaction that typically causes only collective migratory motion. Finally, we observe that polar order destroys active phase separation, producing homogeneous, disordered moving configurations.
Electric-field-aligned liquid crystal polymer for doubling anisotropic thermal conductivity
Authors: Li Maohua , Gong Ping , Zhang Zhenbang , Li Linhong , Chen Yapeng , Qin Yue , Guo Yingying , Yang Rongjie , Zhang Jianxiang , Zhou Yiwei , Xu Kang , Wang Yandong , Do Hainam , Jia Xiaofei , Cai Tao , Lin Cheng-Te , Jiang Nan , Yu Jinhong
Published: February 2024

High thermal conductive polymers have become more important because equipment requires high performance, high-energy density, and high integration. There are different strategies to make high thermal conductive polymers, among which is the synthesis of polymers in the liquid crystal phase. However, the thermal conductivity of such material is rarely beyond 1 W m−1 K−1 because of the disordered molecular directionality. The disordered directionality between crystal zones limits the thermal conductivity in a specific direction. Here, we show a method for unifying the direction of crystal zones by applying an external electric field on the liquid crystal monomers. Meanwhile, by exposing the transparent equipment and specially designed photopolymerisable monomer in UV light, the liquid crystal monomer is in situ polymerised into a liquid crystal polymer with a high intrinsic thermal conductivity of 1.02 W m−1 K−1. The molecular alignment was characterised and resulted in the resultant high conductivity.
Detecting kelp-forest associated metazoan biodiversity with eDNA metabarcoding
Authors: Rossouw Emma I. , Landschoff Jannes , Ndhlovu Andrew , Neef Götz , Miya Masaki , Courtaillac Kira-Lee , Brokensha Rouane , von der Heyden Sophie
Published: February 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is a promising tool for monitoring marine biodiversity, but remains underutilised in Africa. In this study, we evaluated the ability of aquatic eDNA metabarcoding as a tool for detecting biodiversity associated with a South African kelp forest, an ecosystem that harbours high diversity of species, many of which are endemic, but are also sensitive to changing environmental conditions and anthropogenic pressures. Using fine-scale spatial (1 m and 8 m) and temporal (every four hours for 24 h) sampling of aquatic environmental DNA and targeting two gene regions (mtDNA COI and 12S rRNA), metabarcoding detected 880 OTUs representing 75 families in the broader metazoan community with 44 OTUs representing 24 fish families. We show extensive variability in the eDNA signal across space and time and did not recover significant spatio-temporal structure in OTU richness and community assemblages. Metabarcoding detected a broad range of taxonomic groups, including arthropods, ascidians, cnidarians, echinoderms, ctenophores, molluscs, polychaetes, ichthyofauna and sponges, as well as Placozoa, previously not reported from South Africa. Fewer than 3% of OTUs could be identified to species level using available databases (COI = 19 OTUs, 12S = 11 OTUs). Our study emphasizes that kelp-forest associated biodiversity in South Africa is understudied, but that with careful consideration for sampling design in combination with increased barcoding efforts and the construction of regional databases, eDNA metabarcoding will become a powerful biomonitoring tool of kelp-forest associated biodiversity.
PGC-1α integrates insulin signaling with mitochondrial physiology and behavior in a Drosophila model of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Weisz Eliana D. , Fenton Adam R. , Jongens Thomas A.
Published: February 2024

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most prevalent monogenetic form of intellectual disability and autism. Recently, dysregulation of insulin signaling (IS) and aberrations in mitochondrial function have emerged as robust, evolutionarily conserved components of FXS pathophysiology. However, the mechanisms by which altered IS and mitochondrial dysfunction impact behavior in the context of FXS remain elusive. Here, we show that normalization of IS improves mitochondrial volume and function in flies that lack expression of dfmr1, the Drosophila homolog of the causal gene of FXS in humans. Further, we demonstrate that dysregulation of IS underlies diminished expression of the mitochondrial master regulator PGC-1α/Spargel in dfmr1 mutant flies. These results are behaviorally relevant, as we show that pan-neuronal augmentation of PGC-1α/Spargel improves circadian behavior in dfmr1 mutants. Notably, we also show that modulation of PGC-1α/Spargel expression in wild-type flies phenocopies the dfmr1 mutant circadian defect. Taken together, the results presented herein provide a mechanistic link between mitochondrial function and circadian behavior both in FXS pathogenesis as well as more broadly at the interface between metabolism and behavioral output.
A portable EIS-based biosensor for the detection of microcystin-LR residues in environmental water bodies and simulated body fluids
Authors: Mandal Atindra Kanti , Pal Tathagata , Kumar Satish , Mukherji Suparna , Mukherji Soumyo
Published: February 2024

A novel EIS-based immunosensor fabricated by coating cysteamine-capped AuNPs covalently embedded in polyaniline over stencil-printed carbon IDEs. It can detect microcystin-LR up to 0.1 μg L−1 in water samples and body fluids.
Are nature's strategies the solutions to the rational design of low-melting, lipophilic ionic liquids?
Authors: Yeboah John , Metott Zachary J. , Butch Christopher M. , Hillesheim Patrick C. , Mirjafari Arsalan
Published: February 2024

Ionic liquids (ILs) have emerged as a new class of materials, displaying a unique capability to self-assemble into micelles, liposomes, liquid crystals, and microemulsions.
Uncovering the secrets of agarwood aroma according to regions and grades using a comprehensive analytical strategy
Authors: Xie Yanqiao , Shen Chen , Yin Ge , Zhang Siyu , Chen Yilin , Fan Wenxiang , Chen Kaixian , Wang Zhengtao , Li Linnan , Yang Li
Published: February 2024

We report a comprehensive targeted and untargeted analytical approach combining two databases for elucidating the aroma of agarwood, as well as the differences between zones and grades.
Wavelike zinc coordination polymers: anion-modulated ligand conformation and fluorescence detection of 4-aminobenzylamine
Authors: Lee Pei-Chin , Huang Tzu-Chiao , Wu Jing-Yun
Published: February 2024

Two thermally stable zinc coordination polymers adopting wavelike chain structures achieve anion-modulated ligand conformation and a fluorescence turn-off response for detecting 4-aminobenzylamine in water.
Nano-protrusions in intercalated graphite: understanding the structural and electronic effects through DFT
Authors: Bouaamlat Hussam , Seitsonen Ari Paavo , Bussetti Gianlorenzo , Yivlialin Rossella , De Rosa Stefania , Branchini Paolo , Tortora Luca
Published: February 2024

EC-STM and DFT were combined to understand the formation of nanoprotrusions in HOPG samples intercalated with diluted perchloric and sulfuric acid electrolytes.
A strategy for boosting photovoltaic performance based on a two-dimensional ZrSSe/HfSSe van der Waals heterostructure
Authors: Han Keying , Guo Defeng , Han Yuxin , Zhao Pei , Liang Yan , Wang Qiang
Published: February 2024

A strategy for boosting photovoltaic performance: a novel and adjustable two-dimensional ZrSSe/HfSSe van der Waals heterostructure with band alignment phase transitions from type-I to type-II and significantly larger photocurrents around the band gap via applying a vertical strain.
Advancing nanotechnology for neoantigen-based cancer theranostics
Authors: Zou Jianhua , Zhang Yu , Pan Yuanbo , Mao Zhengwei , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: February 2024

Developing nanotechnology for neoantigen-based precision therapy, including photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, radiotherapy, chemo/chemodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and other therapies.
Unlocking the potential of metal ligand cooperation for enantioselective transformations
Authors: Ramspoth Tizian-Frank , Kootstra Johanan , Harutyunyan Syuzanna R.
Published: February 2024

Metal–ligand cooperation, (MLC) is a versatile catalysis concept. Herein, we discuss the historical context, mechanisms, and applications, suggesting exploring MLC for enantioselective transformations beyond (de)hydrogenative processes.
Methanol as an anti-solvent to improve the low open-circuit voltage of CsPbBr3 perovskite solar cells prepared with water
Authors: Cheng Jiajie , Gui Zhisheng , Jiang Yufan , Wang Jiaming , Dong Jingjing
Published: February 2024

CsPbBr3 has received more and more attention in the field of optoelectronic devices due to its excellent stability.
Efficacy of oats in dyslipidemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Anqi , Gao Jing , Li Yingcai , Qi Shihao , Meng Tiantian , Yu Shanshan , Zhang Yuqing , He Qingyong
Published: February 2024

Background: In recent years, oats’ effect on lowering serum cholesterol has been recognized.
Methionine and its hydroxy analogues: the paths toward their sustainable chemical synthesis
Authors: Calderon-Ardila Sergio , Morvan Didier , Péruch Olivier , Bellière-Baca Virginie , Dusselier Michiel , Sels Bert F.
Published: February 2024

We reviewed the current oil-based and novel renewables pathways for the chemical synthesis of methionine and its hydroxy analogues. Their sustainability advantages and disadvantages were critically assessed.
Biocompatible diimidazolium based ionic liquid systems for enhancing the solubility of paclitaxel
Authors: Hu Yanhui , Yue Hua , Huang Shiqi , Song Bingxi , Xing Yuyuan , Liu Minmin , Wang Gongying , Diao Yanyan , Zhang Suojiang
Published: February 2024

Diimidazolium ionic liquids, as low-toxicity solvents, are introduced into paclitaxel (PTX) dissolution systems for the first time, enhancing the dissolution of PTX in water and further promoting the design of biocompatible drug dissolution systems.
Environmental impact of different scenarios for the pyrolysis of contaminated mixed plastic waste
Authors: Garcia-Garcia Guillermo , Martín-Lara María Ángeles , Calero Mónica , Blázquez Gabriel
Published: February 2024

Pyrolysis is environmentally superior to landfilling for the treatment of contaminated mixed plastic waste.
Closing the loop for poly(butylene-adipate-co-terephthalate) recycling: depolymerization, monomers separation, and upcycling
Authors: Ismail Mohamed , Abouhmad Adel , Warlin Niklas , Pyo Sang-Hyun , Örn Oliver Englund , Al-Rudainy Basel , Tullberg Cecilia , Zhang Baozhong , Hatti-Kaul Rajni
Published: February 2024

The study demonstrates complete depolymerization of PBAT into its monomers using a thermostable cutinase variant LCC-WCCG, followed by separation and recovery of pure monomers and their recycling/upcycling to achieve a circular plastics system.
Ionic liquids for the green synthesis of 1,2,3-triazoles: a systematic review
Authors: Kumar Aman , Kumar Vijay , Singh Prashant , Tittal Ram Kumar , Lal Kashmiri
Published: February 2024

This review focuses on the use of ionic liquids (ILs) in green synthesis of 1,2,3-triazoles which critically screened, and summarized in two sections i.e., from alkynes and substrates other than alkynes using ILs as solvent, as catalyst and as both.
Design, synthesis, and anti-tumor activity of cyclic peptide–lenalidomide conjugated small molecules
Authors: Li Tingting , Li Tong , Zhang Xiong , Xu Hongyu , Xie Yutian , Yan Rui , Wu Xiaodan , Jin Yingxue , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: February 2024

Cyclic peptide–lenalidomide conjugated molecules were prepared and a comprehensive investigation into their antitumor activity was performed.
A novel SERS and colorimetry synergistic strategy for rapid bacterial detection
Authors: Wang Wei , Su Guanwen , Liu Yue , Peng Han , Hou Yulin , Zhang Jie , Dang Leping
Published: February 2024

This study introduces a novel approach combining Raman spectroscopy's unique 'fingerprint' features with colorimetric techniques, offering dual functionality and exceptional convenience for bacterial detection.
Harnessing laser technology to create stable metal halide perovskite–rGO conjugates as promising electrodes for Zn-ion capacitors
Authors: Kostopoulou Athanasia , Vernardou Dimitra , Livakas Nikolaos , Brintakis Konstantinos , Daskalakis Stylianos , Stratakis Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

Perovskite-rGO conjugates in Zn-ion capacitors: specific capacitance enhanced 178- and 152-fold compared to those of the plain rGO and perovskite electrodes due to EDLC and pseudocapacitance synergy.
Synthesis of stereoregular polymyrcenes using neodymium-, iron- and copper-based catalysts
Authors: Ricci Giovanni , Boccia Antonella Caterina , Palucci Benedetta , Sommazzi Anna , Masi Francesco , Scoti Miriam , De Stefano Fabio , De Rosa Claudio
Published: February 2024

β-Myrcene was polymerized with catalysts based on pyridyl-imino complexes of neodymium, iron and copper to highly stereoregular polymers.
X-ray-activated ultra-long UVA persistent luminescence from a Bi-doped perovskite LaGaO3 for photodynamic activation
Authors: Liu Bo-Mei , Lin Yue , Liu Yingchun , Zhang Shanqing , Wang Jing , Zhang Hui , Zhu Jesse
Published: February 2024

X-ray-activated LaGaO3:Sb,Bi, engineered with a generic design utilizing intrinsic oxygen-defect perovskite as the host material, demonstrates robust UV persistent luminescence lasting over 2000 hours.
Iridium-catalyzed reductive γ-lactonization of ortho-acylbenzoic acids in water: sustainable access to phthalides
Authors: Chen Yang , Zhang Jingyu , Du Hongguang , Luo Renshi , Xu Jiaxi , Yang Zhanhui
Published: February 2024

Iridium-catalyzed reductive γ-lactonization of ortho-acylbenzoic acids in water provides a practical and sustainable route to phthalides.
A synthetic approach towards drug modification: 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde based imine-zwitterion preparation, single-crystal study, Hirshfeld surface analysis, and computational investigation
Authors: Malik Abida Naseem , Ali Akbar , Ashfaq Muhammad , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Alam Mohammad Mahtab , Mostafa Mohamed S. , Kuznetsov Aleksey
Published: February 2024

This work is about the modification of pyrimethamine and 4-amino-N-(2,3-dihydrothiazol-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide via condensation reaction with 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde to produce new organic zwitterionic compounds DSPIN and ACPIN in methanol.
Continuous flow synthesis of β-hydroxyethyl hydrazine in microreactors: process behavior and impurity formation mechanism
Authors: Ma Haiyun , Yao Chaoqun , Jiao Fengjun , Zhao Shuainan , Zhao Yuchao , Chen Guangwen
Published: February 2024

The synthesis of β-hydroxyethyl hydrazine (HEH) via the reaction between ethylene oxide (EO) and hydrazine hydrate (N2H4·H2O) suffers from a series of consecutive side reactions, such as ammonolysis and addition of EO.
Differentiable simulation to develop molecular dynamics force fields for disordered proteins
Authors: Greener Joe G.
Published: February 2024

The a99SB-disp force field and GBNeck2 implicit solvent model are improved to better describe disordered proteins. 5 ns differentiable molecular simulations are used to jointly optimise 108 parameters to better match explicit solvent trajectories.
A monolithic nano-scale sensor architecture with tuneable gas diffusion for molecular fingerprinting
Authors: John Alishba T. , Taheri Mahdiar , Yuwono Jodie A. , Kumar Priyank , Nisbet David R. , Murugappan Krishnan , Tricoli Antonio
Published: February 2024

Selective chemoresistive gas sensors using a monolithic membrane-sensing layer architecture.
Carbon farming: a circular framework to augment CO2 sinks and to combat climate change
Authors: Singh Shalini , Kiran Boda Ravi , Mohan S. Venkata
Published: February 2024

Addressing the climate crisis stands as one of the paramount challenges of this era.
Self-aspiration sampling design for rapid analyses of volatile organic compounds based on atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/photoionization combined ionization source mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Xu Hengyi , Sui Bo , Xi Hui , Fu Yingjie , Zhao Wuduo , Li Peng , Sun Shihao , Wang Dingzhong , Zhang Jianxun
Published: February 2024

An atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/photoionization combined ionization source was built through the Venturi effect for introducing samples to detect volatile organic compounds.
Separation and purification of short-, medium-, and long-stranded RNAs by RP-HPLC using different mobile phases and C18 columns with various pore sizes
Authors: Ozaki Makoto , Kuwayama Tomomi , Shimotsuma Motoshi , Hirose Tsunehisa
Published: February 2024

We developed a method for separation and purification of short-, medium-, and long-stranded RNAs by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography using different mobile phases and octadecyl (C18) based columns with various pore sizes.
A core–shell structured AuNPs@ZnCo-MOF SERS substrate for sensitive and selective detection of thiram
Authors: Xue Wenxia , Fu Jihong , Zhang Yaxue , Ren Shuxian , Liu Guoqi
Published: February 2024

Novel core–shell AuNPs@ZnCo-MOF composites were successfully prepared at room temperature and used as SERS substrates for rapid, sensitive and specific detection of thiram in fruits.
Molecular recognition and proteoglycan mimic arrangement: modulating cisplatin toxicity
Authors: Anand Saurabh , Mardhekar Sandhya , Bhoge Preeti Ravindra , Mishra Sandeep Kumar , Kikkeri Raghavendra
Published: February 2024

We report on synthesizing l-iduronic acid neoproteoglycans to remodel the glycocalyx to modulate cisplatin cytotoxicity in cancerous cells.
A polyaniline-coated Ni–Co Prussian blue analogue nanocube-modified separator for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Li Zilong , Wang Yulin , Wang Bin , Su Haiping , Shang Yazhuo , Liu Honglai
Published: February 2024

A PANi-coated Ni–Co-based Prussian blue analogue (NCP@PANi) was synthesized through a simple coprecipitation and in situ oxidation polymerization method. The NCP@PANi-modified separators can inhibit the polysulfide shuttling effectively.
Synthesis and properties of covalently linked phenyl bridged 3-pyrrolyl BODIPY–BODIPY dyads
Authors: Sarkar Abani , Behera Kanhu Charan , Tumsare Ankit , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: February 2024

Two different covalently linked 3-pyrrolyl BODIPY–BODIPY dyads were synthesized and their fluorescence studies indicated a possibility of singlet–singlet energy transfer from BODIPY to 3-pyrrolyl BODIPY unit.
A thiol–ene mediated approach for peptide bioconjugation using ‘green’ solvents under continuous flow
Authors: Rabadán González Inés , McLean Joshua T. , Ostrovitsa Nikita , Fitzgerald Sheila , Mezzetta Andrea , Guazzelli Lorenzo , O'Shea Donal F. , Scanlan Eoin M.
Published: February 2024

The photochemical thiol–ene reaction employing green solvents under continuous-flow conditions is reported as a versatile method for peptide bioconjugation.
Perspectives on emerging dual carbon fiber batteries: advantages, challenges and prospects
Authors: Liu Bojun , Gan Qi , Fu Yu
Published: February 2024

Dual carbon fiber battery, where both the cathode and anode are made of carbon fiber, overthrows the traditional configuration. Fiber-shaped batteries and structural batteries will be significantly reformed due to the emerging of dual carbon fiber batteries.