bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Halide Perovskite glues activate two-dimensional covalent organic framework crystallites for selective NO2 sensing
Authors: Ye Wen , Zhao Liangdan , Lin Hong-Zhen , Ding Lifeng , Cao Qiang , Chen Ze-Kun , Wang Jia , Sun Qi-Meng , He Jing-Hui , Lu Jian-Mei
Published: April 2023

Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) are promising for gas sensing owing to the large surface area, abundant active sites, and their semiconducting nature. However, 2D COFs are usually produced in the form of insoluble micro-crystallites. Their poor contacts between grain boundaries severely suppress the conductivity, which are too low for chemresistive gas sensing. Here, we demonstrate that halide perovskites can be employed as electric glues to bond 2D COF crystallites to improve their conductivity by two orders of magnitude, activating them to detect NO2 with high selectivity and sensitivity. Resonant microcantilever, grand canonical Monte Carlo, density functional theory and sum-frequency generation analyses prove that 2D COFs can enrich and transfer electrons to NO2 molecules, leading to increased device conductivity. This work provides a facile approach for improving the conductivity of polycrystalline 2D COF films and may expand their applications in semiconductor devices, such as sensors, resistors, memristors and field-emission transistors.
Central cavity dehydration as a gating mechanism of potassium channels
Authors: Gu Ruo-Xu , de Groot Bert L.
Published: April 2023

Abstract

The hydrophobic gating model, in which ion permeation is inhibited by the hydrophobicity, rather than a physical occlusion of the nanopore, functions in various ion channels including potassium channels. Available research focused on the energy barriers for ion/water conduction due to the hydrophobicity, whereas how hydrophobic gating affects the function and structure of channels remains unclear. Here, we use potassium channels as examples and conduct molecular dynamics simulations to investigate this problem. Our simulations find channel activities (ion currents) highly correlated with cavity hydration level, implying insufficient hydration as a barrier for ion permeation. Enforced cavity dehydration successfully induces conformational transitions between known channel states, further implying cavity dewetting as a key step in the gating procedure of potassium channels utilizing different activation mechanisms. Our work reveals how the cavity dewetting is coupled to structural changes of potassium channels and how it affects channel activity. The conclusion may also apply to other ion channels.
Hsp90 provides a platform for kinase dephosphorylation by PP5
Authors: Jaime-Garza Maru , Nowotny Carlos A. , Coutandin Daniel , Wang Feng , Tabios Mariano , Agard David A.
Published: April 2023

The Hsp90 molecular chaperone collaborates with the phosphorylated Cdc37 cochaperone for the folding and activation of its many client kinases. As with many kinases, the Hsp90 client kinase CRaf is activated by phosphorylation at specific regulatory sites. The cochaperone phosphatase PP5 dephosphorylates CRaf and Cdc37 in an Hsp90-dependent manner. Although dephosphorylating Cdc37 has been proposed as a mechanism for releasing Hsp90-bound kinases, here we show that Hsp90 bound kinases sterically inhibit Cdc37 dephosphorylation indicating kinase release must occur before Cdc37 dephosphorylation. Our cryo-EM structure of PP5 in complex with Hsp90:Cdc37:CRaf reveals how Hsp90 both activates PP5 and scaffolds its association with the bound CRaf to dephosphorylate phosphorylation sites neighboring the kinase domain. Thus, we directly show how Hsp90’s role in maintaining protein homeostasis goes beyond folding and activation to include post translationally modifying its client kinases.
The melanocortin action is biased toward protection from weight loss in mice
Authors: Li Hongli , Xu Yuanzhong , Jiang Yanyan , Jiang Zhiying , Otiz-Guzman Joshua , Morrill Jessie C. , Cai Jing , Mao Zhengmei , Xu Yong , Arenkiel Benjamin R. , Huang Cheng , Tong Qingchun
Published: April 2023

The melanocortin action is well perceived for its ability to regulate body weight bidirectionally with its gain of function reducing body weight and loss of function promoting obesity. However, this notion cannot explain the difficulty in identifying effective therapeutics toward treating general obesity via activation of the melanocortin action. Here, we provide evidence that altered melanocortin action is only able to cause one-directional obesity development. We demonstrate that chronic inhibition of arcuate neurons expressing proopiomelanocortin (POMC) or paraventricular hypothalamic neurons expressing melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R) causes massive obesity. However, chronic activation of these neuronal populations failed to reduce body weight. Furthermore, gain of function of the melanocortin action through overexpression of MC4R, POMC or its derived peptides had little effect on obesity prevention or reversal. These results reveal a bias of the melanocortin action towards protection of weight loss and provide a neural basis behind the well-known, but mechanistically ill-defined, predisposition to obesity development.
Ether phospholipids are required for mitochondrial reactive oxygen species homeostasis
Authors: Chen Ziheng , Ho I-Lin , Soeung Melinda , Yen Er-Yen , Liu Jintan , Yan Liang , Rose Johnathon L. , Srinivasan Sanjana , Jiang Shan , Edward Chang Q. , Feng Ningping , Gay Jason P. , Wang Qi , Wang Jing , Lorenzi Philip L. , Veillon Lucas J. , Wei Bo , Weinstein John N. , Deem Angela K. , Gao Sisi , Genovese Giannicola , Viale Andrea , Yao Wantong , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Marszalek Joseph R. , Draetta Giulio F. , Ying Haoqiang
Published: April 2023

Mitochondria are hubs where bioenergetics, redox homeostasis, and anabolic metabolism pathways integrate through a tightly coordinated flux of metabolites. The contributions of mitochondrial metabolism to tumor growth and therapy resistance are evident, but drugs targeting mitochondrial metabolism have repeatedly failed in the clinic. Our study in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) finds that cellular and mitochondrial lipid composition influence cancer cell sensitivity to pharmacological inhibition of electron transport chain complex I. Profiling of patient-derived PDAC models revealed that monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and MUFA-linked ether phospholipids play a critical role in maintaining ROS homeostasis. We show that ether phospholipids support mitochondrial supercomplex assembly and ROS production; accordingly, blocking de novo ether phospholipid biosynthesis sensitized PDAC cells to complex I inhibition by inducing mitochondrial ROS and lipid peroxidation. These data identify ether phospholipids as a regulator of mitochondrial redox control that contributes to the sensitivity of PDAC cells to complex I inhibition.
Plasticity in ventral pallidal cholinergic neuron-derived circuits contributes to comorbid chronic pain-like and depression-like behaviour in male mice
Authors: Ji Ya-Wei , Shen Zi-Lin , Zhang Xue , Zhang Kairan , Jia Tao , Xu Xiangying , Geng Huizhen , Han Yu , Yin Cui , Yang Jian-Jun , Cao Jun-Li , Zhou Chunyi , Xiao Cheng
Published: April 2023

Nucleus- and cell-specific interrogation of individual basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic circuits is crucial for refining targets to treat comorbid chronic pain-like and depression-like behaviour. As the ventral pallidum (VP) in the BF regulates pain perception and emotions, we aim to address the role of VP-derived cholinergic circuits in hyperalgesia and depression-like behaviour in chronic pain mouse model. In male mice, VP cholinergic neurons innervate local non-cholinergic neurons and modulate downstream basolateral amygdala (BLA) neurons through nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. These cholinergic circuits are mobilized by pain-like stimuli and become hyperactive during persistent pain. Acute stimulation of VP cholinergic neurons and the VP-BLA cholinergic projection reduces pain threshold in naïve mice whereas inhibition of the circuits elevated pain threshold in pain-like states. Multi-day repetitive modulation of the VP-BLA cholinergic pathway regulates depression-like behaviour in persistent pain. Therefore, VP-derived cholinergic circuits are implicated in comorbid hyperalgesia and depression-like behaviour in chronic pain mouse model.
Clinical trajectories of individuals with severe mental illness continuing and discontinuing long-acting antipsychotics: a one-year mirror-image analysis from the STAR Network Depot study
Authors: Ostuzzi Giovanni , Tedeschi Federico , Bertolini Federico , Cotugno Carlo , Aguglia Andrea , Bartoli Francesco , Carrà Giuseppe , D’Agostino Armando , Martinotti Giovanni , Barbui Corrado , Gastaldon Chiara , Papola Davide
Published: April 2023

Evidence on long-acting antipsychotics (LAIs) in unselected populations with severe mental illness is scant. In this mirror-image study, we compared multiple clinical outcomes 1 year before and after a first LAI prescription in adults with severe mental illness, describing clinical trajectories of LAI continuers and discontinuers. We compared LAI continuers and discontinuers through Mann–Whitney U test, Kaplan–Meier survival curves, regression for interval-censored data, and a maximum-likelihood mixed-model with individual random-effect and time as predictor. Of the 261 participants analyzed, 71.3% had schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, and 29.5% discontinued the LAI before 1 year. At baseline, LAI discontinuers had a shorter illness duration, lower attitude and adherence scores. The mirror-image analysis showed reduced hospital admissions only for LAI continuers. Over time, continuers spent less days hospitalized, but had more adverse events and more antipsychotics prescribed, with higher overall doses. In conclusion, this study shows that LAIs might be beneficial in unselected patient populations, provided that adherence is maintained. LAI continuers spent less time hospitalized, but received more antipsychotics and suffered from more cumulative adverse events over time. Therefore, the choice of initiating and maintaining a LAI should be carefully weighed on a case-by-case basis.
Extent and reproduction of coastal species on plastic debris in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre
Authors: Haram Linsey E. , Carlton James T. , Centurioni Luca , Choong Henry , Cornwell Brendan , Crowley Mary , Egger Matthias , Hafner Jan , Hormann Verena , Lebreton Laurent , Maximenko Nikolai , McCuller Megan , Murray Cathryn , Par Jenny , Shcherbina Andrey , Wright Cynthia , Ruiz Gregory M.
Published: April 2023

We show that the high seas are colonized by a diverse array of coastal species, which survive and reproduce in the open ocean, contributing strongly to its floating community composition. Analysis of rafting plastic debris in the eastern North Pacific Subtropical Gyre revealed 37 coastal invertebrate taxa, largely of Western Pacific origin, exceeding pelagic taxa richness by threefold. Coastal taxa, including diverse taxonomic groups and life history traits, occurred on 70.5% of debris items. Most coastal taxa possessed either direct development or asexual reproduction, possibly facilitating long-term persistence on rafts. Our results suggest that the historical lack of available substrate limited the colonization of the open ocean by coastal species, rather than physiological or ecological constraints as previously assumed. It appears that coastal species persist now in the open ocean as a substantial component of a neopelagic community sustained by the vast and expanding sea of plastic debris.
Sub-symmetry-protected topological states
Authors: Wang Ziteng , Wang Xiangdong , Hu Zhichan , Bongiovanni Domenico , Jukić Dario , Tang Liqin , Song Daohong , Morandotti Roberto , Chen Zhigang , Buljan Hrvoje
Published: April 2023

A hallmark of symmetry-protected topological phases are topological boundary states, which are immune to perturbations that respect the protecting symmetry. It is commonly believed that any perturbation that destroys such a topological phase simultaneously destroys the boundary states. However, by introducing and exploring a weaker sub-symmetry requirement on perturbations, we find that the nature of boundary state protection is in fact more complex. Here we demonstrate that the boundary states are protected by only the sub-symmetry, using Su–Schrieffer–Heeger and breathing kagome lattice models, even though the overall topological invariant and the associated topological phase can be destroyed by sub-symmetry-preserving perturbations. By precisely controlling symmetry breaking in photonic lattices, we experimentally demonstrate such sub-symmetry protection of topological states. Furthermore, we introduce a long-range hopping symmetry in breathing kagome lattices, which resolves a debate on the higher-order topological nature of their corner states. Our results apply beyond photonics and could be used to explore the properties of symmetry-protected topological phases in the absence of full symmetry in different physical contexts.
A chromosome-level genome assembly of the yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula)
Authors: Mei Xuesong , Liu Guangshuai , Yan Jiakuo , Zhao Chao , Wang Xibao , Zhou Shengyang , Wei Qinguo , Zhao Shihu , Liu Zhao , Sha Weilai , Zhang Honghai
Published: April 2023

The yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula) is a medium-sized carnivore that is widely distributed across much of Asia and occupies an extensive variety of habitats. We reported a high-quality genome assembly of this organism that was generated using Oxford Nanopore and Hi-C technologies. The final genome sequences contained 215 contigs with a total size of 2,449.15 Mb and a contig N50 length of 68.60 Mb. Using Hi-C analysis, 2,419.20 Mb (98.78%) of the assembled sequences were anchored onto 21 linkage groups. Merqury evaluation suggested that the genome was 94.95% complete with a QV value of 43.75. Additionally, the genome was found to comprise approximately 39.74% repeat sequences, of which long interspersed elements (LINE) that accounted for 26.13% of the entire genome, were the most abundant. Of the 20,464 protein-coding genes, prediction and functional annotation was successfully performed for 20,322 (99.31%) genes. The high-quality, chromosome-level genome of the marten reported in this study will serve as a reference for future studies on genetic diversity, evolution, and conservation biology.
The chromosome-level genome of Cherax quadricarinatus
Authors: Chen Honglin , Zhang Rui , Liu Feng , Shao Changwei , Liu Fangfang , Li Weidong , Ren Jindong , Niu Baolong , Liu Haipeng , Lou Bao
Published: April 2023

Red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) is an aquatic crustacean with considerable potential for the commercial culture and an ideal model for studying the mechanism of sex determination. To provide better genomic resources, we assembled a chromosome-level genome with a size of 5.26 Gb and contig N50 of 144.33 kb. Nearly 90% of sequences were anchored to 100 chromosomes, which represents the high-quality crustacean genome with the largest number of chromosomes ever reported. The genome contained 78.69% repeat sequences and 20,460 protein-coding genes, of which 82.40% were functionally annotated. This chromosome-scale genome would be a valuable reference for assemblies of other complex genomes and studies of evolution in crustaceans.
Efficiency scale for scattering luminescent particles linked to fundamental and measurable spectroscopic properties
Authors: Würth Christian , Behnke Thomas , Gienger Jonas , Resch-Genger Ute
Published: April 2023

Comparing the performance of molecular and nanoscale luminophores and luminescent micro- and nanoparticles and estimating achievable signal amplitudes and limits of detection requires a standardizable intensity scale. This initiated the development of the relative MESF (number of molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochromes) and ERF (equivalent reference fluorophores) scales for flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Both intensity scales rely on fluorescence intensity values assigned to fluorescent calibration beads by an intensity comparison to spectrally closely matching fluorophore solutions of known concentration using a spectrofluorometer. Alternatively, the luminophore or bead brightness (B) can be determined that equals the product of the absorption cross section (σa) at the excitation wavelength (σa(λex)) and the photoluminescence quantum yield (Φpl). Thereby, an absolute scale based on fundamental and measurable spectroscopic properties can be realized which is independent of particle size, material, and luminophore staining or labeling density and considers the sensitivity of the optical properties of luminophores to their environment. Aiming for establishing such a brightness scale for light-scattering dispersions of luminescent particles with sizes exceeding a few ten nanometers, we demonstrate how the brightness of quasi-monodisperse 25 nm, 100 nm, and 1 µm sized polystyrene particles (PSP), loaded with two different dyes in varying concentrations, can be obtained with a single custom-designed integrating sphere setup that enables the absolute determination of Φpl and transmittance and diffuse reflectance measurements. The resulting Φpl, σa(λex), imaginary parts of the refractive index, and calculated B values of these samples are given in dependence of the number of incorporated dye molecule per particle. Finally, a unitless luminescence efficiency (LE) is defined allowing for the direct comparison of luminescence efficiencies of particles with different sizes.
Health economic evaluation of a randomized controlled trial (EMBLA study), an internet-based treatment for provoked vulvodynia
Authors: Hess Engström A. , Bohm-Starke N. , Buhrman M. , Högberg U. , Skalkidou A. , Lagenskiöld S.
Published: April 2023

Internet-based treatment (IBT) for provoked vulvodynia (PVD) may reduce pain during intercourse and increases pain acceptance. However, a there is still a knowledge gap regarding the cost-effectiveness of IBT for PVD. The aim of this study was to perform a health economic evaluation of guided internet-based intervention for PVD as an addition to standard treatment. The sample consisted of 99 women with a PVD diagnosis. Healthcare related costs, health-related quality of life, and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) were analyzed. After the IBT, the intervention group had fewer visits to a midwife than the control group (p = 0.03), but no between-group differences were found for visits to other professionals, treatment length, health-related quality of life, QALYs, and costs for treatment. It was estimated a cost of 260.77 € for a clinical meaningful change in pain acceptance. Internet-based treatment as add-on to clinical treatment may lower number of visits to a healthcare.
Magneto radiative and heat convective flow boundary layer in Maxwell fluid across a porous inclined vertical plate
Authors: Sudarmozhi K. , Iranian D. , Khan Ilyas , S. Al-johani Amnah , Eldin Sayed M.
Published: April 2023

Heat transport in a 2D steady radiative boundary layer with Maxwell fluid flow and the influence of heat generation and MHD has been studied across a porous inclined vertical plate. Through similarity transformation, the mathematical modelling is converted to ODEs, and the built-in solver Bvp4c via MATLAB is used to solve. The linear movement of an inclined porous plate introduced the flow. The MHD (M), Prandtl number (Pr), radiation (Rd), Rayleigh number (Ra), local Nusselt number (Nux), angle of inclination (γ), and material relaxation time (β) have a considerable impact on the flow field as a result. The local Nusselt numbers and the skin friction coefficient are also given as numbers. The validation with the numerical solution is presented. The results are shown, and a thorough physical analysis has been done. The temperature of the fluid rises due to the greater electric field, increasing the heat transfer on the inclined plate. However, skin friction increases dramatically as the heat radiation parameter rises. The critical findings of this study are that the temperature profile increases and the velocity profile lower as the inclination angle increases. The Maxwell fluid parameter raises the velocity profile as well.
MR-orthopantomography in operative dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery: a proof of concept study
Authors: Al-Haj Husain Adib , Schmidt Valérie , Valdec Silvio , Stadlinger Bernd , Winklhofer Sebastian , Schönegg Daphne , Sommer Stefan , Özcan Mutlu , Al-Haj Husain Nadin , Piccirelli Marco
Published: April 2023

This prospective study aimed to present, compare, and evaluate the suitability of five different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocols (3D double-echo steady-state (DESS), 3D fast spin echo short-tau inversion recovery (SPACE-STIR), 3D fast spin echo spectral attenuated inversion recovery (SPACE-SPAIR), volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (T1-VIBE-Dixon), and ultrashort echo time (UTE)) and for orthopantomogram (OPG)-like MRI reconstructions using a novel mandibular coil. Three readers assessed MR-OPGs of 21 volunteers regarding technical image quality (4, excellent; 0, severely reduced), susceptibility to artifacts (3, absence; 0, massive), and visualization of anatomical structures in the oral cavity and surrounding skeletal structures (4, fine details visible; 0, no structures visible). Average image quality was good (3.29 ± 0.83) for all MRI protocols, with UTE providing the best image quality (3.52 ± 0.62) and no to minor artifacts (2.56 ± 0.6). Full diagnostic interpretability of the osseous structures is best in VIBE-Dixon and UTE MR-OPGs. DESS provided excellent visualization of the finest details of the nervous tissue (3.95 ± 0.22). Intra-reader and inter-reader agreement between the readers was good to excellent for all protocols (ICCs 0.812–0.957). MR-OPGs provide indication-specific accurate imaging of the oral cavity and could contribute to the early detection of pathologies, staging, and radiological follow-up of oral and maxillofacial diseases.
Visuo-spatial attention and semantic memory competition in the parietal cortex
Authors: Capotosto Paolo , Sulpizio Valentina , Galati Gaspare , Baldassarre Antonello
Published: April 2023

Neuroimaging studies associate specific functional roles to distinct brain regions investigating separate cognitive processes using dedicated tasks. For example, using both correlative (i.e., fMRI) and causal (i.e., TMS) approaches it has been shown the involvement of intra-parietal sulcus (IPS), as part of the dorsal attention network, in spatial attentional tasks as well as the importance of the angular gyrus (AG), as part of the default mode network, during the selection of relevant information in semantic memory. Nonetheless, in our daily life attention and semantic memory are rarely needed in isolation. In the present TMS study we investigate how the brain combines attentional and semantic memory demands in a single task. Results showed that, compared to a pseudo-TMS, stimulation of IPS, but not AG, affects behavioral performance, thus suggesting its preponderant role in such a combined task. Moreover, the lack of difference between the effect of IPS and AG stimulations seems to suggest that the two regions may be coactivated or that a third-party source might indirectly mediate the interaction between the two networks.
A spirocyclic backbone accesses new conformational space in an extended, dipole-stabilized foldamer
Authors: Roe William Edward , Warnock Toyah Mary Catherine , Knipe Peter Clarke
Published: April 2023

Most aromatic foldamers adopt uniform secondary structures, offering limited potential for the exploration of conformational space and the formation of tertiary structures. Here we report the incorporation of spiro bis-lactams to allow controlled rotation of the backbone of an iteratively synthesised foldamer. This enables precise control of foldamer shape along two orthogonal directions, likened to the aeronautical yaw and roll axes. XRD, NMR and computational data suggest that homo-oligomers adopt an extended right-handed helix with a pitch of over 30 Å, approximately that of B-DNA. Compatibility with extant foldamers to form hetero-oligomers is demonstrated, allowing greater structural complexity and function in future hybrid foldamer designs.
Climate targets in European timber-producing countries conflict with goals on forest ecosystem services and biodiversity
Authors: Blattert Clemens , Mönkkönen Mikko , Burgas Daniel , Di Fulvio Fulvio , Toraño Caicoya Astor , Vergarechea Marta , Klein Julian , Hartikainen Markus , Antón-Fernández Clara , Astrup Rasmus , Emmerich Michael , Forsell Nicklas , Lukkarinen Jani , Lundström Johanna , Pitzén Samuli , Poschenrieder Werner , Primmer Eeva , Snäll Tord , Eyvindson Kyle
Published: April 2023

The European Union (EU) set clear climate change mitigation targets to reach climate neutrality, accounting for forests and their woody biomass resources. We investigated the consequences of increased harvest demands resulting from EU climate targets. We analysed the impacts on national policy objectives for forest ecosystem services and biodiversity through empirical forest simulation and multi-objective optimization methods. We show that key European timber-producing countries – Finland, Sweden, Germany (Bavaria) – cannot fulfil the increased harvest demands linked to the ambitious 1.5°C target. Potentials for harvest increase only exists in the studied region Norway. However, focusing on EU climate targets conflicts with several national policies and causes adverse effects on multiple ecosystem services and biodiversity. We argue that the role of forests and their timber resources in achieving climate targets and societal decarbonization should not be overstated. Our study provides insight for other European countries challenged by conflicting policies and supports policymakers.
Catalytic production of ammonia from dinitrogen employing molybdenum complexes bearing N-heterocyclic carbene-based PCP-type pincer ligands
Authors: Ashida Yuya , Mizushima Takuro , Arashiba Kazuya , Egi Akihito , Tanaka Hiromasa , Yoshizawa Kazunari , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: April 2023

Mechanistic insight into the catalytic production of ammonia from dinitrogen is needed to improve the synthesis of this vital molecule. Here we study the use of samarium diiodide (SmI2) and water in the presence of molybdenum complexes that bear PCP-type pincer ligands to synthesize ammonia. The proton-coupled electron transfer during the formation of a N–H bond on the molybdenum imide complex was found to be the rate-determining step at high catalyst concentrations. Additionally, the dimerization step of the catalyst became the rate-determining step at low catalyst concentrations. We designed PCP-type pincer ligands with various substituents at the 5- and 6-positions and observed that electron-withdrawing groups promoted the reaction rate, as predicted by density functional theory calculations. A molybdenum trichloride complex that bears a trifluoromethyl group functioned as the most effective catalyst and produced up to 60,000 equiv. ammonia based on the molybdenum atom of the catalyst, with a molybdenum turnover frequency of up to 800 equiv. min−1. The findings reported here can contribute to the development of an environmentally friendly next-generation nitrogen-fixation system.
Non-invasive diagnosis of acute kidney injury using Mn-doped carbon dots-based magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Huang Xingtai , Wang Zihan , Li Shujie , Lin Shiqi , Zhang Lirong , Meng Zhaowei , Zhang Xuejun , Sun Shao-Kai
Published: April 2023

The Mn-CDs-based contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging provides a promising method for the non-invasive diagnosis of acute kidney injury, solving the problem of the potential nephrotoxicity of Gd-based contrast agents.
Protective effects of dietary quercetin on cerebral ischemic injury: pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and bioavailability-enhancing nanoformulations
Authors: Zhang Yafang , Fu Ke , Wang Cheng , Ma Cheng , Gong Lihong , Zhou Honglin , Xue Xinyan , Peng Cheng , Li Yunxia
Published: April 2023

The anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and blood-brain barrier protective activities of dietary quercetin can prevent cerebral ischemia, and its nano-formulation can improve quercetin bioavailability.
Lactobacillus coryniformis subsp. torquens inhibits bone loss in obese mice via modification of the gut microbiota
Authors: Song W. , Bai Y. Y. , Hu J. H. , Li L. L. , He W. W. , Liu C. C. , Li L. , Ning X. , Zhu L. N. , Cui X. L. , Chen B. , Wang T. Y. , Su K. X. , Miao Y. X. , Luo Y. E. , Sheng Q. L. , Yue T. L.
Published: April 2023

High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity results in bone loss associated with an imbalanced gut microbiota and altered immune status.
Tilt grain boundaries in WS2 from low to high misorientation angles
Authors: Ke Da , Hong Jinquan , Zhang Yubo
Published: April 2023

Out-of-plane warping in WS2 leads to a critical angle of 14° for separating low- and high-angle grain boundaries.
A single-atom cobalt integrated flexible sensor for simultaneous detection of dihydroxybenzene isomers
Authors: Hu Guang Xuan , Rao Qianghai , Li Ge , Zheng Yan , Liu Yuhang , Guo Chunxian , Li Fuhua , Hu Fang Xin , Yang Hong Bin , Chen Feng
Published: April 2023

Simultaneous detection of hydroquinone (HQ), catechol (CC), and resorcinol (RS) is achieved by an electrochemical flexible strip constructed with single-atom cobalt using high-resolution electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing technique.
Thermal conductivity of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol nanofluids with boron nitride nano-barbs
Authors: Maselugbo Adesewa O. , Sadiku Bolaji L. , Alston Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the potential of composite allotrope boron nitride nanobarbs (BNNBs) as nanoparticles for enhancing the thermal conductivity of nanofluids based on mixtures of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol with water.
Cyclic peptides target the aromatic cage of a PHD-finger reader domain to modulate epigenetic protein function
Authors: Coleman Oliver D. , Macdonald Jessica , Thomson Ben , Ward Jennifer A. , Stubbs Christopher J. , McAllister Tom E. , Clark Shane , Amin Siddique , Cao Yimang , Abboud Martine I. , Zhang Yijia , Sanganee Hitesh , Huber Kilian V. M. , Claridge Tim D. W. , Kawamura Akane
Published: April 2023

We report the development of a potent and selective de novo cyclic peptide ligand for epigenetic methyllysine reader domain. The cyclic peptide binds at the aromatic cage of PHD-finger and modulates the JmjC lysine demethylase activity of KDM7.
A cheap metal catalyzed ring expansion/cross-coupling cascade: a new route to functionalized medium-sized and macrolactones
Authors: Liu Shuai , Ma Pengchen , Zhang Lu , Shen Shenyu , Miao Hong-Jie , Liu Le , Houk K. N. , Duan Xin-Hua , Guo Li-Na
Published: April 2023

A Cu or Fe-catalyzed radical ring expansion/coupling cascade was developed. It provides a new access to medium-sized and macrolactones with CN, N3, SCN, and X groups. DFT calculations suggest a Cu(i)/Cu(ii)/Cu(iii) catalytic cycle for the cyanation.
A baseline survey of potentially toxic elements in the soil of north-west Syria following a decade of conflict
Authors: Alhasan Miassar , Lakmes Abdulkarim , Alobaidy Mohammad Gazy , AlHaeek Safwan , Assaf Muhammed , Dawson Lorna , Pirrie Duncan , Abdeldayem Ziad , Bridge Jonathan
Published: April 2023

The first regional topsoil sampling campaign since 2011 maps elevated background concentrations of potentially toxic elements in soils across north-west Syria following more than a decade of conflict.
Development and evaluation of RPA-NFO-LFT and RPA-Cas12a-LFT systems for the detection of Candida albicans
Authors: Liu Chang , Yao Xuechun , Liu Chunlong , You Shengping , Qi Wei , Wang Mengfan
Published: April 2023

Recently, the growing number of medical interventions has led to the risk of invasive candidiasis.
Water-assisted sonochemically-induced demethylenation of benzyl alcohol to phenol over a structurally stable cupric oxide catalyst
Authors: Bahry Teseer , Jiang Shang , Jonnalagadda Umesh , Liu Wen , Teychene Benoit , Jerome Francois , Mushrif Samir H. , Amaniampong Prince N.
Published: April 2023

Novel catalytic chemistry of demethylenation of benzyl alcohol to phenol is presented here using the synergy between an earth-abundant transition metal oxide (CuO) catalyst and high frequency ultrasound.
Metal phosphine aldehyde complexes and their application in Cu-free Sonogashira and Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Baweja Saral , Gabler Tom , Lönnecke Peter , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: April 2023

Investigating and exploring the potential of relatively limited metal phosphine aldehyde complexes for cross-coupling reactions.
A highly conducting mixed-valence nickel bis(dithiolene) salt [Et4N][Ni(Me-thiazSe-dt)2]2 with selone substitution
Authors: Hachem Hadi , Jeannin Olivier , Cui Hengbo , Kato Reizo , Fourmigué Marc , Lorcy Dominique
Published: April 2023

High conductivity is found in a 1 : 2 mixed-valence salt of a selone-substituted nickel bis(dithiolene) complex with a rare cis arrangement of the two dithiolene ligands around the Ni atom.
Synthesis and transparent conductivity of crack-free La:BaSnO3 epitaxial flexible sheets
Authors: Gong Lizhikun , Yu Rui , Ohta Hiromichi , Katayama Tsukasa
Published: April 2023

La-doped BaSnO3 (LBSO), which exhibits both high electron mobility and visible-light transparency, is a promising transparent electrode/transistor material that does not require expensive elements such as indium.
Apple juice relieves loperamide-induced constipation in rats by downregulating the intestinal apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter ASBT
Authors: Zhu Qiunan , Iwai Ryusuke , Okaguchi Takehiro , Shirasaka Yoshiyuki , Tamai Ikumi
Published: April 2023

The specific effect of apples on constipation is due to the reduced expression of ASBT, which increases intestinal luminal BAs, thereby promoting the motility of the gut and the water content, resulting in the relief of constipation.
Effect of water-soluble polysaccharides from Morchella esculenta on high-fat diet-induced obese mice: changes in gut microbiota and metabolic functions
Authors: Liu Bingshu , Yu Leilei , Zhai Qixiao , Li Miaoyu , Li Liuruolan , Tian Fengwei , Chen Wei
Published: April 2023

Morchella esculenta polysaccharides increased the abundance of Dubosiella, Lactobacillus and Rikenellaceae RC9, and improved acetic acid and butyric acid levels to alleviate obesity in mice caused by a high fat diet.
β-Sitosterol protects against food allergic response in BALB/c mice by regulating the intestinal barrier function and reconstructing the gut microbiota structure
Authors: Ma Liyuan , Ma Yu , Liu Yixiang
Published: April 2023

β-Sitosterol, a dietary component, prevents OVA-induced food allergy by ameliorating the intestinal barrier function and reshaping the intestinal microbiota.
Benchmarking the performance of lithiated metal oxide interlayers at the LiCoO2|LLZO interface
Authors: Müller André , Okur Faruk , Aribia Abdessalem , Osenciat Nicolas , Vaz Carlos A. F. , Siller Valerie , El Kazzi Mario , Gilshtein Evgeniia , Futscher Moritz H. , Kravchyk Kostiantyn V. , Kovalenko Maksym V. , Romanyuk Yaroslav E.
Published: April 2023

Lithiated Nb, Al, or Ti metal oxide interlayers improve the LiCoO2/LLZO interface, whereby the Li–Nb–O interlayer exhibits the highest performance.
Identification of ARUK2002821 as an isoform-selective PI5P4Kα inhibitor
Authors: Willems Henriëtte M. G. , Edwards Simon , Boffey Helen K. , Chawner Stephen J. , Green Christopher , Romero Tamara , Winpenny David , Skidmore John , Clarke Jonathan H. , Andrews Stephen P.
Published: April 2023

The PI5P4Ks play a central role in regulating cell signalling pathways. ARUK2002821 is reported as a potent and selective PI5P4Kα inhibitor (pIC50 = 8.0). ADMET and target engagement data are provided, with a ligand-protein X-ray structure, optimised to deliver ARUK2002821.
Energy-level engineering of carbon dots through a post-synthetic treatment with acids and amines
Authors: Kosolapova Kseniia D. , Koroleva Aleksandra V. , Arefina Irina A. , Miruschenko Mikhail D. , Cherevkov Sergei A. , Spiridonov Igor G. , Zhizhin Evgeniy V. , Ushakova Elena V. , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: April 2023

Functionalization of CDs leads to energy structure change and a HOMO level shift of up to 0.9 eV.
Coupling double flat bands in a quadrangular-star lattice
Authors: Jiang Jun , Jiang Wen , Zhang Song , Xie Yuee , Chen Yuanping
Published: April 2023

Coupling double flat bands can be generated by a carbon network with a quadrangular-star lattice.
A tunable photo-electric co-excited point electron source: low-intensity excitation emission and structure-modulated spectrum-selection
Authors: Chen Yinyao , Tang Shuai , Shen Yan , Chen Huanjun , Deng Shaozhi
Published: April 2023

Tungsten needle nano-cold-cathode excited by low-intensity photo-electric co-excitation exhibits structure-modulated electron emission properties and high performance with clear electron emission patterns, narrow energy spread and high brightness.
Facile synthesis of the SnTe/SnSe binary nanocomposite via a hydrothermal route for flexible solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad , John Peter , Fawy Khaled Fahmi , Manzoor Sumaira , Butt Kashif Younas , Abid Abdul Ghafoor , Messali Mouslim , Najam-Ul-Haq Muhammad , Ashiq Muhammad Naeem
Published: April 2023

CV at various scan rates and charge/discharge profile of the fabricated composite.
Periodic and quasi-periodic one-dimensional phononic crystal biosensor: a comprehensive study for optimum sensor design
Authors: Almawgani Abdulkarem H. M. , Fathy Hamza Makhlouf , Elsayed Hussein A. , Ali Ghassan Ahmed , Irfan Muhammad , Mehaney Ahmed
Published: April 2023

Graphical 3D dimensions representation of the suggested NaI sensor.
Green preparation of silver nanocluster composite AgNCs@CF-g-PAA and its application: 4-NP catalytic reduction and hydrogen production
Authors: Han Fei , Wang Wenrui , Li Danyi , Xu Siyi , Sun Ying , Lin Lin , Ma Lin , Li Jihao , Li Linfan
Published: April 2023

Silver nanocluster composites are obtained directly through radiation technology and can be used to catalyse 4-nitrophenol reduction and sodium borohydride. The catalyst is a candidate for the treatment of water contaminant 4-NP and the production of hydrogen from NaBH4.
Modular 3D-printed fluorometer/photometer for determination of iron(ii), caffeine, and ciprofloxacin in pharmaceutical samples
Authors: Lamarca Rafaela Silva , Silva João Pedro , Varoni dos Santos João Paulo , Ayala-Durán Saidy Cristina , Lima Gomes Paulo Clairmont Feitosa de
Published: April 2023

A low-cost modular 3D-printed fluorometer/photometer was built and applied to determine iron(ii), caffeine and ciprofloxacin in pharmaceutical samples.
Photodegradation of fleroxacin by g-C3N4/PPy/Ag and HPLC-MS/MS analysis of degradation pathways
Authors: Ma Lei , Yang Lin , Li Laijun , Zhang Wu , Cheng Yuqing , Wang Lei , Zhou Xiaoxuan , Lv Yuguang , Liu Mingyuan
Published: April 2023

To improve the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4, graphitic phase carbon nitride was prepared using melamine as the substrate and modified with PPy and Ag nanoparticles.
Correction: Synthesis of an amantadine-based novel Schiff base and its transition metal complexes as potential ALP, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitors
Authors: Ajaz Aliya , Shaheen Muhammad Ashraf , Ahmed Maqsood , Munawar Khurram Shahzad , Siddique Abu Bakar , Karim Abdul , Ahmad Nazir , Rehman Muhammad Fayyaz ur , Mehmood Tahir
Published: April 2023

Correction for ‘Synthesis of an amantadine-based novel Schiff base and its transition metal complexes as potential ALP, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitors’ by Aliya Ajaz et al., RSC Adv., 2023, 13, 2756–2767, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2RA07051K.
In(OTf)3-catalyzed reorganization/cycloaddition of two imine units and subsequent modular assembly of acridinium photocatalysts
Authors: Nan Jiang , Huang Guanjie , Liu Shilei , Wang Jing , Ma Yangmin , Luan Xinjun
Published: April 2023

Herein, we disclose a novel reorganization/cycloaddition between two imine units catalyzed by In(OTf)3Lewis acid that differs from the well-known [4 + 2] cycloaddition versionviathe Povarov reaction.
Physics-informed Gaussian process regression of in operando capacitance for carbon supercapacitors
Authors: Pan Runtong , Gu Mengyang , Wu Jianzhong
Published: April 2023

Modeling electric double layer (EDL) capacitance with physics-informed Gaussian process regression (PhysGPR) avoids unphysical predictions that might be encountered in conventional machine learning methods.
Enzyme synergy for plant cell wall polysaccharide degradation
Authors: Khamassi Ahmed , Dumon Claire
Published: April 2023

Valorizing plant cell wall, marine and algal polysaccharides is of utmost importance for the development of the circular bioeconomy. This is because polysaccharides are by far the most abundant organic molecules found in nature with complex chemical structures that require a large set of enzymes for their degradation. Microorganisms produce polysaccharide-specific enzymes that act in synergy when performing hydrolysis. Although discovered since decades enzyme synergy is still poorly understood at the molecular level and thus it is difficult to harness and optimize. In the last few years, more attention has been given to improve and characterize enzyme synergy for polysaccharide valorization. In this review, we summarize literature to provide an overview of the different type of synergy involving carbohydrate modifying enzymes and the recent advances in the field exemplified by plant cell-wall degradation.
Effect of Low-Tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention on Intentional Triadic Gaze as Alternative Access by School-Age Children With Multiple Disabilities
Authors: Holyfield Christine , Caron Jessica , Lorah Elizabeth , Norton Bailey
Published: April 2023

Purpose:

Students with multiple disabilities who are beginning communicators require augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to communicate during school and participate in its academic and social aspects. Triadic gaze is a method for accessing low-tech AAC that minimizes physical demands on access for students with limited mobility, such as students with multiple disabilities. Thus, this study evaluated an instructional protocol for teaching triadic gaze as a low-tech AAC access method for students with multiple disabilities.

Method:

Three students with multiple disabilities who were beginning communicators participated in a multiple baseline across participants design with three phases: baseline, treatment, and generalization and maintenance. Participants engaged in instruction around using triadic gaze to communicate by making selections on an eye gaze board.

Results:

Visual analysis showed that all three participants acquired the use of triadic gaze as a method of accessing low-tech AAC in response to instruction. Effect size estimations suggested instruction was effective. The participants also demonstrated that the newly acquired skill generalized to interactions with familiar communication partners after instruction ended.

Conclusions:

These findings show that instruction can be effective in teaching triadic gaze as a low-tech AAC access method for students with multiple disabilities. Future research should explore the effects of using this access method on communicating across school contexts.
Tuning of controller parameters for suppressing low frequency oscillations in electric railway traction networks using meta‐heuristic algorithms
Authors: Dey Prasenjit , Kirawanich Phumin , Sumpavakup Chaiyut , Bhattacharya Aniruddha
Published: April 2023

Due to the interaction of electric multiple units (EMUs), and the electric traction networks, low frequency oscillations (LFOs) appear leading to traction blockade and overall stability related issues. For suppressing LFOs, coronavirus herd immunity optimiser (CHIO), a recently developed meta‐heuristic, has been applied for tuning controller parameters. Controller parameters are tuned to minimise the integral time absolute error (ITAE) that regulates DC‐link capacitor voltage. Results obtained using CHIO are compared with those found using other well‐established algorithms like symbiotic organisms search (SOS) and particle swarm optimisation (PSO). The supremacy of CHIO over other mentioned algorithms for mitigating LFOs was demonstrated for a diverse range of operating conditions. Results demonstrates that overshoot for the proposed algorithm‐based traction unit is 1.0061% whereas those for SOS and PSO based algorithm are obtained as 6.4542 % and 20.6166%, respectively which are quite high. CHIO is more stable than SOS and PSO and requires settling time of 0.1934 s only to reach steady‐state condition, which is 50.21% faster than SOS and 65.03% faster than PSO. Also, the total harmonic distortion (THD) for line currents of the secondary side of traction transformer (TT) are obtained as 0.88%, 2.17%, and 12.48% for CHIO, SOS, and PSO, respectively.
Measurement‐based omnidirectional millimetre‐wave and sub‐THz propagation analysis in a large cubicle office environment
Authors: Lee Juyul , Park Jae‐Joon , Kim Kyung‐Won , Kwon Heon Kook , Kim Myung‐Don
Published: April 2023

For 5G beyond and/or 6G mobile services, a new spectrum at frequencies above 100 GHz has received great attention lately. To characterise the similarities and the differences between frequencies below 100 GHz and above 100 GHz, this paper provides analyses of multi‐frequency propagation characteristics based on wideband measurements at 28, 38, 71, 82, and 159 GHz, with an emphasis on the sub‐THz (i.e. the 159 GHz) propagation characteristics. All the frequency measurements were conducted in the same cubicle office room environment by locating the transmitter and the receiver at the same positions. The measurement results show that the path loss and the shadow fading characteristics do not exhibit significant differences depending on the frequency range from 28 to 159 GHz. However, the delay spread shows a generally decreasing trend as the frequency increases. Additionally, angular domain analyses were conducted with the 159 GHz measurements.
Influence of the Viscosity of Nanofluids on Surface Roughness in End Milling of Nickel Alloys with Minimum Quantity Lubrication
Authors: Hirudayanathan Hiru Purushothaman , Debnath Sujan , Anwar Mahmood , Bin Johar Mahzan , Elumalai Naveen Kumar , Iqbal U Mohammed
Published: April 2023

Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) using vegetable oils is considered a sustainable lubrication method, particularly for machining difficult-to-machine materials like nickel and titanium alloys. Although a significant influence of nanofluid viscosity on lubrication has been observed in MQL machining, as evidenced by limited literature, the influence of viscosity on MQL machining of difficult-to-machine materials like nickel alloys is yet to be established. This research aimed to study the influence of viscosity on the MQL end milling machining performance of Inconel 718 alloy. Three representative nanofluids were prepared using metallic (Cu), ceramic (Al2O3), and non-metallic (CNT) nanoparticles and palm oil. It was found that the CNT had a significant influence on viscosity at the same concentration, resulting in the highest viscosity of 433.2cP at 30oC. When the machining performance was investigated under different lubricating conditions (dry machining, flood cooling, and MQL), the viscosity of the nanofluids was observed to have a substantial influence on the machining performance. The CNT nanofluid with the highest viscosity penetrated the machining zone producing the lowest surface roughness with improved lubrication by 65.4% and 30.18% when compared with dry machining and flood cooling, respectively. The surface topography study confirmed the superior lubrication performance of CNT nanofluid. Overall, MQL milling with 0.5wt% nanoparticle concentration demonstrated effective machining performance when compared with dry machining and flood cooling.