bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic labeling of embryonically-born dentate granule neurons in young mice using the PenkCre mouse line
Authors: Mortessagne Pierre , Cartier Estelle , Balia Maddalena , Fèvre Murielle , Corailler Fiona , Herry Cyril , Abrous Djoher Nora , Battefeld Arne , Pacary Emilie
Published: February 2024

The dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus is a mosaic of dentate granule neurons (DGNs) accumulated throughout life. While many studies focused on the morpho-functional properties of adult-born DGNs, much less is known about DGNs generated during development, and in particular those born during embryogenesis. One of the main reasons for this gap is the lack of methods available to specifically label and manipulate embryonically-born DGNs. Here, we have assessed the relevance of the PenkCre mouse line as a genetic model to target this embryonically-born population. In young animals, PenkCre expression allows to tag neurons in the DG with positional, morphological and electrophysiological properties characteristic of DGNs born during the embryonic period. In addition, PenkCre+ cells in the DG are distributed in both blades along the entire septo-temporal axis. This model thus offers new possibilities to explore the functions of this underexplored population of embryonically-born DGNs.
Lack of pollinators selects for increased selfing, restricted gene flow and resource allocation in the rare Mediterranean sage Salvia brachyodon
Authors: Surina Boštjan , Balant Manica , Glasnović Peter , Gogala Andrej , Fišer Živa , Satovic Zlatko , Liber Zlatko , Radosavljević Ivan , Classen-Bockhoff Regine
Published: February 2024

Range contraction and habitat fragmentation can cause biodiversity loss by creating conditions that directly or indirectly affect the survival of plant populations. Fragmented habitats can alter pollinator guilds and impact their behavior, which may result in pollen/pollinator limitation and selection for increased selfing as a mechanism for reproductive assurance. We used Salvia brachyodon, a narrowly distributed and endangered sage from eastern Adriatic, to test the consequences of range contraction and habitat fragmentation. Molecular data indicate a severe and relatively recent species range reduction. While one population is reproductively almost completely isolated, moderate gene flow has been detected between the remaining two populations. The high pollen-to-ovule ratio and the results of controlled hand pollination indicate that S. brachyodon has a mixed mating system. Quantitative and qualitative differences in the community and behaviour of flower visitors resulted in limited pollination services in one population where no effective pollinator other than pollen and nectar robbers were observed. In this population, self-pollination predominated over cross-pollination. Various environmental factors, in which plant-pollinator interactions play a pivotal role, have likely created selection pressures that have led to genetic and phenotypic differentiation and different resource allocation strategies among populations.
The use of social simulation modelling to understand adherence to diabetic retinopathy screening programs
Authors: Pereira Andreia Penso , Macedo João , Afonso Ana , Laureano Raul M. S. , de Lima Neto Fernando Buarque
Published: February 2024

The success of screening programs depends to a large extent on the adherence of the target population, so it is therefore of fundamental importance to develop computer simulation models that make it possible to understand the factors that correlate with this adherence, as well as to identify population groups with low adherence to define public health strategies that promote behavioral change. Our aim is to demonstrate that it is possible to simulate screening adherence behavior using computer simulations. Three versions of an agent-based model are presented using different methods to determine the agent’s individual decision to adhere to screening: (a) logistic regression; (b) fuzzy logic components and (c) a combination of the previous. All versions were based on real data from 271,867 calls for diabetic retinopathy screening. The results obtained are statistically very close to the real ones, which allows us to conclude that despite having a high degree of abstraction from the real data, the simulations are very valid and useful as a tool to support decisions in health planning, while evaluating multiple scenarios and accounting for emergent behavior.
An online monitoring method of milling cutter wear condition driven by digital twin
Authors: Zi Xintian , Gao Shangshang , Xie Yang
Published: February 2024

Real-time online tracking of tool wear is an indispensable element in automated machining, and tool wear directly impacts the processing quality of workpieces and overall productivity. For the milling tool wear state is difficult to real-time visualization monitoring and individual tool wear prediction model deviation is large and is not stable and so on, a digital twin-driven ensemble learning milling tool wear online monitoring novel method is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a digital twin-based milling tool wear monitoring system is built and the system model structure is clarified. Secondly, through the digital twin (DT) data multi-level processing system to optimize the signal characteristic data, combined with the ensemble learning model to predict the milling cutter wear status and wear values in real-time, the two will be verified with each other to enhance the prediction accuracy of the system. Finally, taking the milling wear experiment as an application case, the outcomes display that the predictive precision of the monitoring method is more than 96% and the prediction time is below 0.1 s, which verifies the effectiveness of the presented method, and provides a novel idea and a new approach for real-time on-line tracking of milling cutter wear in intelligent manufacturing process.
Research on evaluation of Wuhan air pollution emission level based on entropy weight method
Authors: Wang Na , Zhang Yaxin
Published: February 2024

For the lack of precise monitoring and accurate assessment models for air quality, this paper fully considers such constraints and establishes an evaluation model of air pollution emission level to evaluate the air pollution emission level of Wuhan—a city in central China. The model uses entropy weight method including important indicators of air pollution into the integrated optimization of air quality assessment, laying the basis for sources of pollution and the reasonable and effective city development. The total emissions of air pollution for Wuhan shows a gradual upward trend over time, mainly coming from industrial pollution. The government can reduce air pollution by focusing on detecting major polluting industries, promoting industrial technological progress and innovation, and strengthening the effective implementation of emission trading system.
Time trends in limited lung function among German middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Beller Johannes , Safieddine Batoul , Sperlich Stefanie , Tetzlaff Juliane , Geyer Siegfried
Published: February 2024

Limited lung function represents a serious health impairment. However, studies investigating changes in limited lung function over time are rare. Thus, the current study investigates time-related changes in limited lung function and potential social inequalities. Data from the 2008 and 2017 waves of the population-based German Aging Survey were used in a repeated cross-sectional study design (N = 8778), including participants aged 40 years and older. Lung function was assessed by the peak flow test. Socio-economic indicators included educational attainment, income and occupational group. Additionally, smoking history, occupational exposure to fumes and gases, and physical exercise were used as potentially explanatory variables for the observed changes. We found that the prevalence of limited lung function decreased strongly over time on a descriptive level from 9.0 to 5.4%. In line with these results, a decreasing trend emerged (OR = 0.48) when controlling for age and gender differences. When additionally controlling for changes in socio-economic indicators and explanatory variables there were still significant decreases over time, but the decline was slightly reduced (OR = 0.57). Moreover, similar significant relative decreases over time occurred for middle-aged and older participants, female and male participants, and those belonging to the different socio-economic groups. Thus, limited lung function generally decreased over time. This decrease could partially be explained by beneficial developments in socio-economic indicators, smoking, occupational exposures, and physical exercise. Future studies might investigate how changes in medicinal treatment and prevention efforts have contributed to the observed beneficial trends in lung health.
Experimental investigation on pore characteristics of vitrain and durain in low rank coal based on fractal theory
Authors: Zheng Chao , Chen Yue , Yu Lan , Lei Wulin , Du Xuanhong , Yang Fengfeng
Published: February 2024

The macro petrographic compositions and its pore characteristics of coal reservoir play critical role in the accumulation and development of coalbed methane (CBM). In this paper, the pore characteristics of vitrain and durain were analyzed through the experiment and fractal theory. The results indicated that the micropores and microfractures develop in vitrain, and that transitional pores develop in durain. The pore volume and specific surface area (SSA) of vitrain are larger than those of durain, with the micropore SSA of vitrain being 35% higher than that of durain. The threshold pressure and tortuosity of vitrain are greater than that of durain, but the mean pore size of vitrain is smaller than that of durain. The fractal dimension D1 of vitrain is greater than that of durain, while the fractal dimension D2 is opposite, indicating that the pore surface of vitrain is coarser, and the pore structure of durain is more complex. The fractal dimension Dk of vitrain is larger than that of durain, the mean fractal dimension Ds of vitrain is smaller than that of durain, which shows that the diffusivity of vitrain is weak but the seepage capacity is strong due to the developed fractures. The difference in material composition and pore characteristics between vitrain and durain provides a new understanding for the development of CBM in low rank coal.
Attention-guided jaw bone lesion diagnosis in panoramic radiography using minimal labeling effort
Authors: Gwak Minseon , Yun Jong Pil , Lee Ji Yun , Han Sang-Sun , Park PooGyeon , Lee Chena
Published: February 2024

Developing a deep-learning-based diagnostic model demands extensive labor for medical image labeling. Attempts to reduce the labor often lead to incomplete or inaccurate labeling, limiting the diagnostic performance of models. This paper (i) constructs an attention-guiding framework that enhances the diagnostic performance of jaw bone pathology by utilizing attention information with partially labeled data; (ii) introduces an additional loss to minimize the discrepancy between network attention and its label; (iii) introduces a trapezoid augmentation method to maximize the utility of minimally labeled data. The dataset includes 716 panoramic radiograph data for jaw bone lesions and normal cases collected and labeled by two radiologists from January 2019 to February 2021. Experiments show that guiding network attention with even 5% of attention-labeled data can enhance the diagnostic accuracy for pathology from 92.41 to 96.57%. Furthermore, ablation studies reveal that the proposed augmentation methods outperform prior preprocessing and augmentation combinations, achieving an accuracy of 99.17%. The results affirm the capability of the proposed framework in fine-grained diagnosis using minimally labeled data, offering a practical solution to the challenges of medical image analysis.
Strategy to improve synaptic behavior of ion-actuated synaptic transistors—the use of ion blocking layer to improve state retention
Authors: Jeon Seonuk , Tessler Nir , Kim Nayeon , Hong Eunryeong , Kim Hyun Wook , Woo Jiyong
Published: February 2024

Synaptic transistors (STs) with a gate/electrolyte/channel stack, where mobile ions are electrically driven across the solid electrolyte, have been considered as analog weight elements for neuromorphic computing. The current (ID) between the source and drain in the ST is analogously updated by gate voltage (VG) pulses, enabling high pattern recognition accuracy in neuromorphic systems; however, the governing physical mechanisms of the ST are not fully understood yet. Our previous physics-based simulation study showed that ion movement in the electrolyte, rather than the electrochemical reactions that occur in the channel, plays an important role in switching. In this study, we experimentally explore the properties of the HfOxelectrolyte and show that by tuning the density of oxygen vacancies, it can assume the dual role of electrolyte and channel. We demonstrate analog synaptic behavior using a novel ST with a two-layer stack of CuOx/HfOx, where the CuOxis the gate and Cu ion reservoir, and the HfOxis the electrolyte and channel. To improve state retention and linearity, we introduce a Cu ion transport barrier in the form of a dense and stoichiometric Al2O3layer. The CuOx/Al2O3/HfOxexhibits excellent state retention and improved potentiation and depression response. Energy dispersive spectroscopy mapping following potentiation confirms the role of the Al2O3layer in confining the Cu ions in the HfOxlayer. We also show that a two-step programming scheme can further enhance synaptic response and demonstrate high recognition accuracy on the Fashion-MNIST dataset in simulation.
Long-term air pollution exposure is associated with higher incidence of ST-elevation myocardial infarction and in-hospital cardiogenic shock
Authors: Cha Jinah , Choi Se Yeon , Rha Seung-Woon , Choi Byoung Geol , Byun Jae Kyeong , Hyun Sujin , Lee Min Woo , Kang Jaeho , Chu Wonsang , Park Eun Jin , Kang Dong Oh , Choi Cheol Ung , Kim Suhng Wook , Jeong Myung Ho , Park Soohyung ,   The Korea Acute Myocardial Infraction Registry study group, Rha Seung-Woon , Ahn Tae Hoon , Yoon Junghan , Kim Hyo-Soo , Seung Ki-Bae , Gwon Hyeon-Cheol , Chae Shung Chull , Kim Chong-Jin , Cha Kwang Soo , Lee Jung-Hee , Chae Jei Keon , Joo Seung-Jae , Yoon Chang-Hwan , Hur Seung-Ho , Seong In-Whan , Hwang Kyung-Kuk , Kim Doo-Il , Oh Seok Kyu , Hwang Jin-Yong , Jeong Myung Ho
Published: February 2024

Previous studies have reported the association between myocardial infarction (MI) and air pollution (AP). However, limited information is available regarding the long-term effects of AP on the relative incidence rates of ST-elevation MI (STEMI) and Non-ST-elevation MI (NSTEMI). We investigated the association between long-term exposure to AP and the incidence of STEMI. Between January 2006 and December 2015, a total of 45,619 eligible patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) were enrolled in the Korea Acute MI Registry (KAMIR) and KAMIR-National Institutes of Health. Mixed-effect regression models were used to examine the association between the annual average ambient AP before MI onset and the incidence of STEMI, and to evaluate the association of AP with the incidence of in-hospital cardiogenic shock. After mixed-effect regression model analysis, particulate matter (PM) 10 µm or less in diameter (PM10) was associated with increased incidence of STEMI compared with NSTEMI (odds ratio [OR] 1.009, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.002–1.016; p = 0.012). For in-hospital cardiogenic shock complication, PM10 and SO2 were associated with increased risk, PM10 (OR 1.033, 95% CI 1.018–1.050; p < 0.001), SO2 (OR 1.104, 95% CI 1.006–1.212; p = 0.037), respectively. Policy-level strategies and clinical efforts to reduce AP exposure are necessary to prevent the incidence of STEMI and severe cardiovascular complications.
Continuous adiabatic frequency conversion for FMCW-LiDAR
Authors: Mrokon Alexander , Oehler Johanna , Breunig Ingo
Published: February 2024

Continuous tuning of the frequency of laser light serves as the fundamental basis for a myriad of applications spanning basic scientific research to industrial settings. These applications encompass endeavors such as the detection of gravitational waves, the development of precise optical clocks, environmental monitoring for health and ecological purposes, as well as distance measurement techniques. However, achieving a broad tuning range exceeding 100 GHz along with sub-microsecond tuning times, inherent linearity in tuning, and coherence lengths beyond 10 m presents significant challenges. Here, we demonstrate that electro-optically driven adiabatic frequency converters utilizing high-Q microresonators fabricated from lithium niobate possess the capability to convert arbitrary voltage signals into frequency chirps with temporal resolutions below 1 µs. The temporal evolution of the frequency correlates accurately with the applied voltage signal. We have achieved to generate 200-ns-long frequency chirps with deviations of less than 1 % from perfect linearity without requiring supplementary measures. The coefficient of determination is $$R^2>0.999$$

R
2

>
0.999

. Moreover, the coherence length of the emitted light exceeds 20 m. To validate these findings, we employ the linear frequency sweeps for Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) LiDAR covering distances ranging from 0.5 to 10 m. Leveraging the demonstrated nanosecond-level tuning capabilities, coupled with the potential to tune the eigenfrequency of lithium-niobate-based resonators by several hundred GHz, our results show that electro-optically driven adiabatic frequency converters can be used in applications that require ultrafast and flexible continuous frequency tuning characterized by inherent linearity and substantial coherence length.
Relationship between circulating metabolites and diabetic retinopathy: a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Ma Lingli , Dong Ying , Li Zimeng , Meng Jian , Zhao Bingqi , Wang Qing
Published: February 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most frequent microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, however, its underlying biological mechanisms remain poorly understood. We examined single nucleotide polymorphisms linked to 486 blood metabolites through extensive genome-wide association studies conducted on individuals of European ancestry. The FinnGen Biobank database served as a reference to define DR. Two-sample MR analysis was conducted to reveal the association between the levels of genetically predicted circulating metabolites and the susceptibility to DR. To validate the robustness of the obtained findings, sensitivity analyses with weighted median, weighted mode, and MR-Egger were conducted. 1-oleoylglycerophosphoethanolamine (odds ratio [OR] (OR per one standard deviation [SD] increase) = 0.414; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.292–0.587; P = 7.613E−07, PFDR = 6.849E−06), pyroglutamine (OR per one SD increase = 0.414; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.292–0.587; P = 8.31E−04, PFDR = 0.007), phenyllactate (PLA) (OR per one SD increase = 0.591; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.418–0.836; P = 0.003, PFDR = 0.026), metoprolol acid metabolite (OR per one SD increase = 0.978; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.962–0.993; P = 0.005, PFDR = 0.042), 10-undecenoate (OR per one SD increase = 0.788; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.667–0.932; P = 0.005, PFDR = 0.049), erythritol (OR per one SD increase = 0.691; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.513–0.932; P = 0.015, PFDR = 0.034), 1-stearoylglycerophosphoethanolamine (OR per one SD increase = 0.636; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.431–0.937; P = 0.022, PFDR = 0.099), 1-arachidonoylglycerophosphoethanolamine (OR per one SD increase = 0.636; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.431–0.937; P = 0.030, PFDR = 0.099) showed a significant causal relationship with DR and could have protective effects. stachydrine (OR per one SD increase = 1.146; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.066–1.233; P = 2.270E−04, PFDR = 0.002), butyrylcarnitine (OR per one SD increase = 1.117; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.023–1.219; P = 0.014, PFDR = 0.062), 5-oxoproline (OR per one SD increase = 1.569; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.056–2.335; P = 0.026, PFDR = 0.082), and kynurenine (OR = 1.623; 95% CI 1.042–2.526; P = 0.041, PFDR = 0.097) were significantly associated with an increased risk of DR. This study identified metabolites have the potential to be considered prospective compounds for investigating the underlying mechanisms of DR and for selecting appropriate drug targets.
The chemical stoichiometry characteristics of plant-soil carbon and nitrogen in subtropical Pinus massoniana natural forests
Authors: Xiang Yunxi , Pan Ping , Ouyang Xunzhi , Zang Hao , Rao Jinfeng
Published: February 2024

Ecological stoichiometry is essential for understanding changes in ecosystem structure and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems. However, the stoichiometric characteristics of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) in different organs or layers, such as leaves, branches, trunks, roots, understory vegetation, litter, and soil within a forest ecosystem, have remained poorly understood. In this study, four age groups of Pinus massoniana natural forest including young, middle-aged, near-mature, and mature were selected as research subjects to illustrate the C and N stoichiometry interactions among different layers and organs in the forest ecosystem. The results showed that the average C and N concentrations in the leaves of the tree layer, shrub layer, and herb aboveground parts (HAP) were higher than that of other tree and shrub organs, as well as the herb underground parts (HUP), respectively. The N concentrations of tree branches and trunks showed a trend of increase first and decrease later from young to mature phases, but the C:N ratios presented an opposite trend. The C concentrations.in all tissues in shrubs showed a first decline and then a rise with age. As age progressed, the N concentration in each ecosystem layer increased gradually and demonstrated high synergy. The mineralization of organic matter in the soil was generally slow. The C concentrations in the understory vegetation layer were significantly positively correlated with the C concentrations in the litter layer but negatively correlated with the soil layer, and the C concentrations in the litter layer were also significantly negatively correlated with the C concentrations in the soil layer. The research findings can provide a reference basis for the formulation of nutrient regulation and sustainable management measures in the natural forests of P. massoniana in the study area.
MALAT1 expression in granulosa cells in PCOS patients with different phenotypes
Authors: Li Shumin , Li Yimeng , Yan Xueqi , Zhao Shigang , Yang Ziyi , Wang Yuteng , Gao Xueying , Chen Zi-Jiang
Published: February 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common reproductive endocrine metabolic disorders. The lncRNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) reportedly can regulate the reproductive system. Despite studies, the alteration of MALAT1 expression in granulosa cells (GCs) from PCOS patients was inconsistent. To evaluate MALAT1 expression in GCs in different PCOS subgroups and its association with PCOS phenotypes, we collected GCs from 110 PCOS cases and 71 controls, and examined MALAT1 expression by quantitative PCR. The results showed MALAT1 expression was upregulated in PCOS cases, especially in insulin resistant (IR) PCOS subgroup, obese PCOS subgroup and non-hyperandrogenic (NHA) PCOS subgroup. MALAT1 expression was positively correlated with BMI and several metabolic parameters in controls. Interestingly, MALAT1 expression was notably associated with some critical endocrine indexes for PCOS, including E2, FSH, LH and LH/FSH ratio. In different PCOS subgroups, we found significant positive correlations with LH/FSH ratio in IR-PCOS and PCOS with normal weight, and with serum T and LH level in NHA-PCOS subgroup. Integrated analysis with lncRNA target databases and PCOS-related databases revealed MALAT1 could participate in PCOS by influencing immune response and lipids metabolism in GCs. In conclusion, MALAT1 was differently expressed in GCs in PCOS, especially in IR, obese and NHA PCOS subgroups. MALAT1 was likely involved in metabolism and immune response in GCs in PCOS. However, more studies are necessary to establish this concept.
A multi-objective optimization evaluation model for seismic performance of slopes reinforced by pile-anchor system
Authors: Xue Lei , Li Longfei , Xu Chao , Cui Yuan , Ding Hao , Huang Kun , Li Zhuan
Published: February 2024

The significance means of the seismic reinforcement effect of a pile-anchor system for slope reinforcement has been widely recognized. However, cases of deformation failure and instability sliding of the pile-anchor system itself and the reinforced slope under seismic action continue to be recorded. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the seismic performance of slopes reinforced by a pile-anchor system to prevent the system’s failure. Current evaluation models of a slope reinforced by a pile-anchor system mainly focus on slope stability; however, the safety of the pile-anchor system itself is not sufficiently considered in these models. Consequently, in this study, we propose a multi-objective optimization evaluation (MOE) model for evaluating the seismic performance of slopes reinforced by a pile-anchor system that considers slope stability, safety of the pile-anchor system, and dynamic response of the slope. This model considers slope displacement, acceleration amplification factor of a slope, pile displacement, and anchor displacement as negative indexes, and anti-slide pile bending moment, shear force, and anchor axial force as intermediate indexes. The comprehensive weight of relevant indexes is obtained by combining subjective and objective weights, and the seismic reinforcement effect of the pile-anchor system is evaluated subsequently. In conclusion, the MOE model proposed in this study provides a novel solution for the optimization evaluation of a slope reinforced by a pile-anchor system in forthcoming projects.
Designing a T-cell epitope-based vaccine using in silico approaches against the Sal k 1 allergen of Salsola kali plant
Authors: Shams Mohammad Hossein , Sohrabi Seyyed Mohsen , Jafari Reza , Sheikhian Ali , Motedayyen Hossein , Baharvand Peyman Amanolahi , Hasanvand Amin , Fouladvand Ali , Assarehzadegan Mohammad-Ali
Published: February 2024

Allergens originated from Salsola kali (Russian thistle) pollen grains are one of the most important sources of aeroallergens causing pollinosis in desert and semi-desert regions. T-cell epitope-based vaccines (TEV) are more effective among different therapeutic approaches developed to alleviate allergic diseases. The physicochemical properties, and B as well as T cell epitopes of Sal k 1 (a major allergen of S. kali) were predicted using immunoinformatic tools. A TEV was constructed using the linkers EAAAK, GPGPG and the most suitable CD4+ T cell epitopes. RS04 adjuvant was added as a TLR4 agonist to the amino (N) and carboxyl (C) terminus of the TEV protein. The secondary and tertiary structures, solubility, allergenicity, toxicity, stability, physicochemical properties, docking with immune receptors, BLASTp against the human and microbiota proteomes, and in silico cloning of the designed TEV were assessed using immunoinformatic analyses. Two CD4+ T cell epitopes of Sal k1 that had high affinity with different alleles of MHC-II were selected and used in the TEV. The molecular docking of the TEV with HLADRB1, and TLR4 showed TEV strong interactions and stable binding pose to these receptors. Moreover, the codon optimized TEV sequence was cloned between NcoI and XhoI restriction sites of pET-28a(+) expression plasmid. The designed TEV can be used as a promising candidate in allergen-specific immunotherapy against S. kali. Nonetheless, effectiveness of this vaccine should be validated through immunological bioassays.
Hygrothermal stress increases malignant arrhythmias susceptibility by inhibiting the LKB1-AMPK-Cx43 pathway
Authors: Chi Jianing , Wu Ningxia , Li Pengfei , Hu Jiaman , Cai Hua , Lin Cailong , Lai Yingying , Yang Han , Huang Jianyu , Li Min , Xu Lin
Published: February 2024

High mortality due to hygrothermal stress during heat waves is mostly linked to cardiovascular malfunction, the most serious of which are malignant arrhythmias. However, the mechanism associated with hygrothermal stress leading to malignant arrhythmias remains unclear. The energy metabolism regulated by liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the electrical signaling based on gap junction protein, connexin43 (Cx43), plays important roles in the development of cardiac arrhythmias. In order to investigate whether hygrothermal stress induces arrhythmias via the LKB1-AMPK-Cx43 pathway, Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to high temperature and humidity for constructing the hygrothermal stress model. A final choice of 40 °C and 85% humidity was made by pre-exploration based on different gradient environmental conditions with reference to arrhythmia event-inducing stability and risk of sudden death. Then, the incidence of arrhythmic events, as well as the expression, phosphorylation at Ser368, and distribution of Cx43 in the myocardium, were examined. Meanwhile, the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activator, Acadesine, was also administered to investigate the role played by AMPK in the process. Our results showed that hygrothermal stress induced malignant arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and severe atrioventricular block. Besides, hygrothermal stress decreased the phosphorylation of Cx43 at Ser368, induced proarrhythmic redistribution of Cx43 from polar to lateral sides of the cardiomyocytes, and also caused LKB1 and phosphorylated-AMPK expression to be less abundant. While, pretreatment with Acadesine significantly actived the LKB1-AMPK-Cx43 pathway and thus ameliorated malignant arrhythmias, indicating that the hygrothermal stress-induced arrhythmias is associated with the redistribution of gap junctions in cardiomyocytes and the organism's energy metabolism.
Novel hydrophobic butyl rubber damping composites modified with bio-based PF/DBA via the construction of a three-dimensional network
Authors: Hu Zhenguo , Chen Zeyu , Meng Fuliang , Zhang Yimiao , Jia Yufei , Fei Hongwei , Li Songjun , Yuan Xinhua
Published: February 2024

It is of interest to develop wide-temperature domain damped hydrophobic materials. In this paper, we designed incorporating bio-based phenolic resin into the IIR matrix and introducing dibenzyl fork acetone (DBA) into the main chain structure with sodium hydroxide activation to construct three-dimensional network. In this paper, we designed incorporating bio-based phenolic resin into the IIR matrix and introducing dibenzyl fork acetone (DBA) into the main chain structure with sodium hydroxide activation to construct three-dimensional network. The added bio-based phenolic resin has reticulated structure blended with butyl rubber, combined with sodium hydride activation-modified IIR. The results show that sodium hydride activated modification of DBA is introduced into the main chain structure of IIR by infrared and 1H NMR analysis. The material hydrophobic is realized by the introduction of DBA with static water contact angle of 103.5°. The addition of 10phr lignin-based phenolic resin (LPF) is compatible with IIR, and the torque can reach 7.0 N-m. The tensile elongation of the modified butyl rubber composite can reach 2400% with tensile strength up to 11.43 MPa, while the damping factor can reach 0.37 even at 70 °C. The thermal stability of the composites is enhanced with mass retention rate of 28%. The bio-based PF/NaH activation-modified butyl rubber damping material has potential applications in damping hydrophobicity with wide temperature range.
Parkin inhibits proliferation and migration of bladder cancer via ubiquitinating Catalase
Authors: Zhang Renjie , Jiang Wenyu , Wang Gang , Zhang Yi , Liu Wei , Li Mingxing , Yu Jingtian , Yan Xin , Zhou Fenfang , Du Wenzhi , Qian Kaiyu , Xiao Yu , Liu Tongzu , Ju Lingao , Wang Xinghuan
Published: February 2024

PRKN is a key gene involved in mitophagy in Parkinson’s disease. However, recent studies have demonstrated that it also plays a role in the development and metastasis of several types of cancers, both in a mitophagy-dependent and mitophagy-independent manner. Despite this, the potential effects and underlying mechanisms of Parkin on bladder cancer (BLCA) remain unknown. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the expression of Parkin in various BLCA cohorts derived from human. Here we show that PRKN expression was low and that PRKN acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting the proliferation and migration of BLCA cells in a mitophagy-independent manner. We further identified Catalase as a binding partner and substrate of Parkin, which is an important antioxidant enzyme that regulates intracellular ROS levels during cancer progression. Our data showed that knockdown of CAT led to increased intracellular ROS levels, which suppressed cell proliferation and migration. Conversely, upregulation of Catalase decreased intracellular ROS levels, promoting cell growth and migration. Importantly, we found that Parkin upregulation partially restored these effects. Moreover, we discovered that USP30, a known Parkin substrate, could deubiquitinate and stabilize Catalase. Overall, our study reveals a novel function of Parkin and identifies a potential therapeutic target in BLCA.
Spatial variability of and effect of light on the cœlenteron pH of a reef coral
Authors: Crovetto Lucas , Venn Alexander A. , Sevilgen Duygu , Tambutté Sylvie , Tambutté Eric
Published: February 2024

Coral reefs, the largest bioconstruction on Earth, are formed by calcium carbonate skeletons of corals. Coral skeleton formation commonly referred to as calcification occurs in a specific compartment, the extracellular calcifying medium (ECM), located between the aboral ectoderm and the skeleton. Calcification models often assume a direct link between the surrounding seawater and the ECM. However, the ECM is separated from the seawater by several tissue layers and the cœlenteron, which contains the cœlenteric fluid found in both polyps and cœnosarc (tissue connecting the polyps). Symbiotic dinoflagellate-containing cells line the cœlenteron and their photosynthetic activity contributes to changes in the chemistry of the cœlenteric fluid, particularly with respect to pH. The aim of our study is to compare cœlenteron pH between the cœnosarc and polyps and to compare areas of high or low dinoflagellate density based on tissue coloration. To achieve this, we use liquid ion exchange (LIX) pH microsensors to profile pH in the cœlenteron of polyps and the cœnosarc in different regions of the coral colony in light and darkness. We interpret our results in terms of what light and dark exposure means for proton gradients between the ECM and the coelenteron, and how this could affect calcification.
Quantitative analysis of microplastics in seawater based on SERS internal standard method
Authors: Di Zhigang , Gao Jianxin , Li Jinxin , Zhou Hao , Jia Chunrong
Published: February 2024

Microplastics can enter the human body through the food chain and can cause cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases; thus, it is essential to detect microplastics sensitively and accurately.
Highly sensitive chemiluminescence sensors for the detection and differentiation of chemical warfare agents
Authors: Redy Keisar Orit , Pevzner Alexander , Fridkin Gil , Shelef Omri , Shabat Doron , Ashkenazi Nissan
Published: February 2024

Highly sensitive chemiluminescence-based probes that effectively detect and differentiate between the extremely toxic real G- and V-type organophosphorus chemical warfare agents (OPCWAs) are presented.
High-sensitivity detection of low-concentration heavy metal ions in solution by multiple reflection enhanced absorption (MREA) spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Rong , Liu Hongfei , Jiang Linhua , Duan Ning , Xu Fuyuan , Gao Wenjie , Liu Yong , Zhu Guangbin , Wang Jiaxin
Published: February 2024

Multiple reflections increase the optical pathlength to enhance substance absorption, achieving high-sensitivity determination for low-concentration heavy metal ions.
Interfacial-interaction induced modifications in segmental dynamics and free volume of the poly(ethyleneimine) canopy in nanoparticle–organic hybrid materials: an investigation by temperature dependent broadband dielectric and positron annihilation spectroscopy
Authors: Mor Jaideep , Nelliyil Renjith B. , Sharma Sandeep Kumar
Published: February 2024

Free volume and dynamics of polymer canopy in liquid like nanoparticle–organic hybrid materials depends on the shape of the inorganic nanocores.
Sixty years of electrochemical optical spectroscopy: a retrospective
Authors: Li Chao-Yu , Tian Zhong-Qun
Published: February 2024

After sixty years of development, electrochemical optical spectroscopy has evolved from the early phase of proof-of-concept to an advanced phase with various spectroscopic modes and has contributed significantly to the field of electrochemistry.
Degradation of benzotriazole and benzothiazole with the UV-activated peracetic acid process: performance, mechanism and transformation pathway
Authors: Lai Webber Wei-Po , Gu Fang-Yi , Tai Wan-Lun , Tang Zih-Syuan
Published: February 2024

The UV-activated peracetic acid process (UV/PAA) exhibited efficient degradation and detoxification of benzotriazole (BT) and benzothiazole (BTH). Detailed mechanistic insights into the UV/PAA degradation of BT and BTH have been thoroughly explored.
Employing photocurable biopolymers to engineer photosynthetic 3D-printed living materials for production of chemicals
Authors: Tóth Gábor Szilveszter , Backman Oskar , Siivola Tiia , Xu Wenyang , Kosourov Sergey , Siitonen Vilja , Xu Chunlin , Allahverdiyeva Yagut
Published: February 2024

Photosynthetic microbes entrapped within a novel photocurable bioink demonstrate enhanced chemical productivity and longevity in 3D-printed films. This approach holds promise for the sustainable and scalable production of solar chemicals and fuels.
Preparation of homogeneous lignin nanoparticles by efficient extraction of lignin and modification of its molecular structure using a functional deep eutectic solvent containing γ-valerolactone
Authors: Yao Mingzhu , Liu Baojie , Qin Lina , Du Zicheng , Wang Zenglin , Qin Chengrong , Liang Chen , Huang Caoxing , Yao Shuangquan
Published: February 2024

A lignin-extractive green reaction medium consisting of choline chloride, 5-sulfosalicylic acid, and γ-valerolactone was designed. Polyphenolic lignin was obtained. The green advancement of DES processing has been enhanced.
High astaxanthin production by Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous strain DW6 from cane molasses using two-stage pH strategies
Authors: Zhou Dawei , Yang Lixin , Guo Fang , Jiang Wankui , Jiang Yujia , Zhang Wenming , Xin Fengxue , Jiang Min
Published: February 2024

This study provided a new strategy for the astaxanthin production, and the genome and transcriptome analysis of strain DW6 also provided references for the subsequent genetic modification of X. dendrorhous.
Characterizing catalyst function and transformations in the plasma reduction of CO2 on atomic layer deposition-synthesized catalysts
Authors: Conlin Samuel K. , Mehrabi Hamed , Parette David N. , Nichols Eva M. , Coridan Robert H.
Published: February 2024

Catalysts prepared by atomic layer deposition allow for comparisons between structurally-identical metal oxide catalysts for CO2 reduction in non-thermal plasmas.
Cancer-targeting gold-decorated melanin nanoparticles for in vivo near-infrared photothermal therapy
Authors: Pornnoppadol Ghasidit , Cho Soojeong , Yu Jeong Heon , Kim Shin-Hyun , Nam Yoon Sung
Published: February 2024

Melanin-like nanoparticles decorated with gold nanoparticles are presented as cancer-targeting near-infrared (NIR) photothermal agents with excellent photothermal conversion and stability.
Synergic improvements in flame retardant and dielectric properties of hybrid epoxy resin composites bearing a dimethyl methylphosphonate-loaded zeolitic imidazole framework
Authors: Guan Huiru , Liu TingShu , Shi Lifeng , Ma Liwei , Kirillov Alexander M. , Liu Weisheng , Yang Lizi , Dou Wei
Published: February 2024

A facile strategy for loading DMMP into the channels of ZIF-8 was developed, followed by the assembly of a hybrid composite with epoxy resin, which exhibited excellent flame retardant and dielectric properties.
Inverse opal manganese-doped tungsten trioxide as a high-performance Fenton-like photocatalyst for levofloxacin degradation
Authors: Jia Nan , Wu Yizhou , Zhang Xinxi , Zhou Liang , Lei Juying , Nguyen Tan Phong , Zhang Jinlong , Liu Yongdi
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we reported an inverse opal Mn-doped WO3 (IO Mn-WO3) catalyst to effectively activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the degradation of levofloxacin (LVX) under visible light irradiation.
Macrophage membrane-modified targeted phase-change nanoparticles for multimodal imaging of experimental autoimmune myocarditis
Authors: Yin Dan , Zheng Min , Zhang Qin , Li Mi , Xiang Ping , Tian Jie
Published: February 2024

Myocarditis is an important public health issue due to the high prevalence of sudden death in adolescents and young adults.
Mechanochromic aromatic hydrocarbons that bear one simple substituent
Authors: Seki Tomohiro , Hattori Kota
Published: February 2024

Structurally simple aromatic hydrocarbons that possess only one isocyano group show luminescent mechanochromism. The structural isomers of these aromatic hydrocarbons exhibit blue- and red-shifted emission bands upon mechanical stress.
Control of the fluorescence lifetime in dye based nanoparticles
Authors: Stenspil Stine G. , Chen Junsheng , Liisberg Mikkel B. , Flood Amar H. , Laursen Bo W.
Published: February 2024

FRET nanoparticles assembled with small-molecule ionic isolation lattices (SMILES) provide control of both emission wavelength and lifetime. This allows simple design of dye based nanoparticles for fluorescence lifetime microscopy.
Solid acid catalyzed esterification of dicyclopentadiene with organic acids to bio-based functional monomers
Authors: Chung Sang-Ho , Demetriou Marilena , Wang Hongqi , Shiju N. Raveendran
Published: February 2024

Here, we report the synthesis of new functional monomers of dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) by esterification with carboxylic acids that can be derived from biomass.
Tuning the electrostatic energy landscape within the pores of covalent organic frameworks: post-synthetic modification reactions and structural imperfections
Authors: Zojer Egbert
Published: February 2024

Polar substituents decorating the pore walls of covalent organic frameworks can be used to control the electrostatic potential within the pores and to tune the alignment of the electronic states in guest molecules and the COF scaffold.
Possibilities and challenges of cathode materials for Zn-ion batteries
Authors: Ajay Rakkesh R. , Shalini S. , Tharani S. , Durgalakshmi D. , Balakumar S.
Published: February 2024

This thorough review explores the potential and obstacles related to cathode materials for zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), providing insights into recent advancements, significant concerns, and prospective developments.
Split-type photoelectrochemical immunoassay for sensitive quantification of carcinoembryonic antigen based on target-induced in situ formation of Z-type heterojunction
Authors: Zhang Jianhui , Tan Meirong , Chen Qian , Zhang Kangyao , Zhou Qian , Lai Wenqiang , Tang Dianping
Published: February 2024

A schematic diagram of the proposed photoelectrochemical (PEC) immunosensor based on in situ formation of a Z-scheme heterojunction for the sensitive determination of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA).
UV photolysis of thiourea and its N-methylated derivative in cryogenic matrices
Authors: Góbi Sándor , Keresztes Barbara , Schneiker Anita , Tarczay György
Published: February 2024

Thiourea and N-methyl thiourea isolated in cryogenic Ar and para-H2 matrices have been processed using 240 and 216 nm laser UV photons. Their photodecomposition has been monitored by IR spectroscopy and their degradation pathways have been assessed.
Modeling diurnal and annual ethylene generation from solar-driven electrochemical CO2 reduction devices
Authors: Yap Kyra M. K. , Wei William J. , Rodríguez Pabón Melanie , King Alex J. , Bui Justin C. , Wei Lingze , Lee Sang-Won , Weber Adam Z. , Bell Alexis T. , Nielander Adam C. , Jaramillo Thomas F.
Published: February 2024

Integrated solar fuels devices for CO2 reduction (CO2R) are a promising technology class towards reducing CO2 emissions.
Friends and relatives: insight into conformational regulation from orthologues and evolutionary lineages using KIF and KIN
Authors: Yehorova Dariia , Crean Rory M. , Kasson Peter M. , Kamerlin Shina Caroline Lynn
Published: February 2024

We have developed novel tools to characterize evolutionarily conserved non-covalent interactions in proteins. We showcase their application to understanding substrate specificity in class A β-lactamases, with potential impact for protein engineering.
Synthesis and structure–activity relationship of novel thiazole aminoguanidines against MRSA and Escherichia coli
Authors: Yang Ping , Liu Hui-Zhong , Wang Ying-Si , Qi Hong , Wang Ling-Ling , Wang Bei-Bei , Xie Xiao-Bao
Published: February 2024

Increasing molecular flexibility improves the performance of thiazole aminoguanidines against drug-resistant bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria.
FeCoNiW medium entropy alloys loaded onto N-doped carbon skeletons as efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Ye Yuanyuan , Zhang Hui , Cao Xian , Zhang Zhaoshun , Zuo Xueqin , Yang Qun , Tang Huaibao , Jin Shaowei , Li Guang
Published: February 2024

The medium entropy alloy FeCoNiW improves the water decomposition ability, the method is simple and the cost is low.
Circularly polarized luminescence and high photoluminescence quantum yields from rigid 5,10-dihydroindeno[2,1-a]indene and 2,2′-dialkoxy-1,1′-binaphthyl conjugates and copolymers
Authors: Iwata Keisuke , Tsurui Makoto , Itaya Kosuke , Hamaguchi Naoto , Egawa Yasunobu , Kitagawa Yuichi , Hasegawa Yasuchika , Tsuji Hayato
Published: February 2024

Rigid planar carbon-bridged oligo(phenylenevinylene)–binaphthyl conjugates and alternating copolymers exhibit high luminescence quantum yield of >0.95, along with circular polarized luminescence dissymmetry factors of up to 1.1 × 10−3.
Tuning the stability of a model quasicrystal and its approximants with a periodic substrate
Authors: Varela-Rosales Nydia Roxana , Engel Michael
Published: February 2024

This study explores how substrates influence the stability of a model quasicrystal and its approximants, revealing phase transitions and phason fluctuations, indicating substrate selection as a promising strategy for designing complex structures.
Time-dependent phosphorescence color of carbon dots in boric acid matrix for dynamic information encryption
Authors: Wang Xiaopeng , Xie Shixin , Tao Liangliang , Ouyang Mengting , Sun Xiangying
Published: February 2024

CDs and CDs-X (X = F, Cl, Br, or I) synthesis and applications in advanced information encryption.