bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomized controlled trial of nebulized surfactant for the treatment of severe COVID-19 in adults (COVSurf trial)
Authors: Dushianthan Ahilanandan , Clark Howard W. , Brealey David , Pratt Danny , Fink James B. , Madsen Jens , Moyses Helen , Matthews Lewis , Hussell Tracy , Djukanovic Ratko , Feelisch Martin , Postle Anthony D. , Grocott Michael P. W.
Published: November 2023

SARS-CoV-2 directly targets alveolar epithelial cells and can lead to surfactant deficiency. Early reports suggested surfactant replacement may be effective in improving outcomes. The aim of the study to assess the feasibility and efficacy of nebulized surfactant in mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients. Patients were randomly assigned to receive open-labelled bovine nebulized surfactant or control (ratio 3-surfactant: 2-control). This was an exploratory dose–response study starting with 1080 mg of surfactant delivered at 3 time points (0, 8 and 24 h). After completion of 10 patients, the dose was reduced to 540 mg, and the frequency of nebulization was increased to 5/6 time points (0, 12, 24, 36, 48, and an optional 72 h) on the advice of the Trial Steering Committee. The co-primary outcomes were improvement in oxygenation (change in PaO2/FiO2 ratio) and ventilation index at 48 h. 20 patients were recruited (12 surfactant and 8 controls). Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar between groups at presentation. Nebulized surfactant administration was feasible. There was no significant improvement in oxygenation at 48 h overall. There were also no differences in secondary outcomes or adverse events. Nebulized surfactant administration is feasible in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 but did not improve measures of oxygenation or ventilation.
Dopaminergic D2-like receptor stimulation affects attention on contextual information and modulates BOLD activation of extinction-related brain areas
Authors: Nostadt Alina , Nitsche Michael A. , Tegenthoff Martin , Lissek Silke
Published: November 2023

Contextual information is essential for learning and memory processes and plays a crucial role during the recall of extinction memory, and in the renewal effect, which is the context-dependent recovery of an extinguished response. The dopaminergic system is known to be involved in regulating attentional processes by shifting attention to novel and salient contextual cues. Higher dopamine levels are associated with a better recall of previously learned stimulus-outcome associations and enhanced encoding, as well as retrieval of contextual information which promotes renewal. In this fMRI study, we aimed to investigate the impact of processing contextual information and the influence of dopaminergic D2-like receptor activation on attention to contextual information during a predictive learning task as well as upon extinction learning, memory performance, and activity of extinction-related brain areas. A single oral dose of 1.25 mg bromocriptine or an identical-looking placebo was administered to the participants. We modified a predictive learning task that in previous studies reliably evoked a renewal effect, by increasing the complexity of contextual information. We analysed fixations and dwell on contextual cues by use of eye-tracking and correlated these with behavioural performance and BOLD activation of extinction-related brain areas. Our results indicate that the group with dopaminergic D2-like receptor stimulation had higher attention to task-relevant contextual information and greater/lower BOLD activation of brain regions associated with cognitive control during extinction learning and recall. Moreover, renewal responses were almost completely absent. Since this behavioural effect was observed for both treatment groups, we assume that this was due to the complexity of the altered task design.
Dynamic interplay: disentangling the temporal variability of fish effects on coral recruitment
Authors: McDevitt-Irwin Jamie M. , McCauley Douglas J. , Brumbaugh Daniel R. , Elmer Franziska , Ferretti Francesco , White Timothy D. , Wible Joseph G. , Micheli Fiorenza
Published: November 2023

Ecosystems around the world are continuously undergoing recovery from anthropogenic disturbances like climate change, overexploitation, and habitat destruction. Coral reefs are a prime example of a threatened ecosystem and coral recruitment is a critical component of reef recovery from disturbances. Reef fishes structure this recruitment by directly consuming macroalgae and coral recruits or by indirectly altering the substrate to facilitate coral settlement (e.g., grazing scars). However, how these direct and indirect mechanisms vary through time remains largely unknown. Here, we quantified coral recruitment on settlement tiles with divots that mimic grazing scars and caging treatments to exclude or allow fish feeding over 3 years at Palmyra Atoll in the Pacific Ocean. We found that the positive and negative effects of fishes on coral recruitment varies through time. After 3 years, both grazing scars and fish grazing no longer predicted coral recruitment, suggesting that the role of fishes decreases over time. Our results emphasize that reef fish populations are important in promoting initial coral recovery after disturbances. However, over time, factors like the environment may become more important. Future work should continue to explore how the strength and direction of top-down control by consumers varies through time across multiple ecosystems.
Serum β-synuclein, neurofilament light chain and glial fibrillary acidic protein as prognostic biomarkers in moderate-to-severe acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Barba Lorenzo , Vollmuth Christoph , Abu-Rumeileh Samir , Halbgebauer Steffen , Oeckl Patrick , Steinacker Petra , Kollikowski Alexander M. , Schultz Cara , Wolf Judith , Pham Mirko , Schuhmann Michael K. , Heuschmann Peter U. , Haeusler Karl Georg , Stoll Guido , Neugebauer Hermann , Otto Markus
Published: November 2023

We aimed to assess the prognostic value of serum β-synuclein (β-syn), neurofilament light chain (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in patients with moderate-to-severe acute ischemic stroke. We measured β-syn, GFAP and NfL in serum samples collected one day after admission in 30 adult patients with moderate-to-severe ischemic stroke due to middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. We tested the associations between biomarker levels and clinical and radiological scores (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale scores, NIHSS, and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, ASPECTS), as well as measures of functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale, mRS). Serum biomarkers were significantly associated with ASPECTS values (β-syn p = 0.0011, GFAP p = 0.0002) but not with NIHSS scores at admission. Patients who received mechanical thrombectomy and intravenous thrombolysis showed lower β-syn (p = 0.029) und NfL concentrations (p = 0.0024) compared to patients who received only mechanical thrombectomy. According to median biomarker levels, patients with high β-syn, NfL or GFAP levels showed, after therapy, lower clinical improvement (i.e., lower 24-h NIHSS change), higher NIHSS scores during hospitalization and higher mRS scores at 3-month follow-up. Elevated serum concentrations of β-syn (p = 0.016), NfL (p = 0.020) or GFAP (p = 0.010) were significantly associated with 3-month mRS of 3–6 vs. 0–2 even after accounting for age, sex and renal function. In patients with moderate-to-severe acute ischemic stroke, serum β-syn, NfL and GFAP levels associated with clinical and radiological scores at different timepoints and were able to predict short- and middle-term clinical outcomes.
Pathogen species are the risk factors for postoperative infection of patients with transurethral resection of the prostate: a retrospective study
Authors: Lin Jiexiang , Yang Zesong , Ye Liefu , Hong Yun , Cai Wanghai , Pan Honghong , Fu Haishou , Wu Jinfeng
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to analyze the infection risk factors for transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and establish predictive models to help make personalized treatment plans. Our study was designed one-center and retrospectively enrolled 1169 benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients. Risk factors were explored for postoperative infection. A TURP-postoperative infection (TURP-PI) model with infection prediction values was created. The improved-TURP-PI (I-TURP-PI) model, including extra new factors (pathogens species), was also built to see whether it could optimize the prediction abilities. At last, we developed a nomogram for better clinical application. Operation time, preoperative indwelling urinary catheter (PIUC), and positive preoperative urine culture were independent risk factors (all P < 0.05). Interestingly, pathogens species in pre-surgery urine (PEnterococcus faecium = 0.014, PPseudomonas aeruginosa = 0.086) were also independent risk factors. Patients with positive Enterococcus faecium (37.50%) were most likely to have postoperative infection. We built two models with AUCTURP-PI = 0.709 (95% CI 0.656–0.763) and AUCI-TURP-PI = 0.705 (95% CI 0.650–0.760). The nomogram could help improve the prediction ability. To our knowledge, our study is the first to use pathogen species in urine before surgery as risk factors for infection prediction after TURP. TURP-PI and I-TURP-PI models have essential roles in predicting patients' postoperative infections and in better postoperative antibiotic decision-making.
Predictors of HbA1c treatment response to add-on medication following metformin monotherapy: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Tan Wei Ying , Hsu Wynne , Lee Mong Li , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: November 2023

Evidence on the influence of patient characteristics on HbA1c treatment response for add-on medications in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear. This study aims to investigate the predictors of HbA1c treatment response for three add-on medications (sulfonylureas (SU), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) and sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor) in metformin monotherapy treated patients with T2D. This retrospective cohort study was conducted using the electronic health record data from six primary care clinics in Singapore. A total of 9748 adult patients with T2D on metformin monotherapy receiving SU, DPP-4 or SGLT-2 add-on were 1:1 propensity score matched to patients receiving other add-on medications. Patient demographics, laboratory results, diabetes related complications, comedications, and treatment response at two endpoints (HbA1c reduction ≥ 1% at 6th month, HbA1c goal attainment < 7% at 12th month) were examined. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to identify patient characteristics associated with the treatment responses. After matching, there were 1073, 517, and 290 paired cohorts of SU, DPP-4 and SGLT-2 respectively. Besides baseline HbA1c, patients with longer hypertension disease duration and higher cholesterol HDL were associated with better treatment response to SU medication add-on. Lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and angiotensin-II receptor medications were associated with better treatment response to DPP-4 add-on. Lower cholesterol HDL, higher creatinine serum, absence of renal complications and beta-blockers medications were associated with better treatment response to SGLT-2 add-on. The cholesterol HDL, creatinine serum, eGFR, hypertension disease duration, angiotensin-II receptors and beta-blockers class of medications can influence the HbA1c treatment response for SU, DPP-4 and SGLT-2 add-on medications. Knowing the patients’ characteristics that influence treatment response can assist in guiding clinical decisions when selecting the appropriate add-on medication, ultimately helping to prevent the development of diabetes-related complications.
Repeated passive visual experience modulates spontaneous and non-familiar stimuli-evoked neural activity
Authors: Niraula Suraj , Hauser William L. , Rouse Adam G. , Subramanian Jaichandar
Published: November 2023

Familiarity creates subjective memory of repeated innocuous experiences, reduces neural and behavioral responsiveness to those experiences, and enhances novelty detection. The neural correlates of the internal model of familiarity and the cellular mechanisms of enhanced novelty detection following multi-day repeated passive experience remain elusive. Using the mouse visual cortex as a model system, we test how the repeated passive experience of a 45° orientation-grating stimulus for multiple days alters spontaneous and non-familiar stimuli evoked neural activity in neurons tuned to familiar or non-familiar stimuli. We found that familiarity elicits stimulus competition such that stimulus selectivity reduces in neurons tuned to the familiar 45° stimulus; it increases in those tuned to the 90° stimulus but does not affect neurons tuned to the orthogonal 135° stimulus. Furthermore, neurons tuned to orientations 45° apart from the familiar stimulus dominate local functional connectivity. Interestingly, responsiveness to natural images, which consists of familiar and non-familiar orientations, increases subtly in neurons that exhibit stimulus competition. We also show the similarity between familiar grating stimulus-evoked and spontaneous activity increases, indicative of an internal model of altered experience.
The effect of bodyweight exercise on 24-h glycemic responses determined by continuous glucose monitoring in healthy inactive adults: a randomized crossover study
Authors: Babir Fiona J. , Riddell Michael C. , Adamo Larissa M. , Richards Douglas L. , Gibala Martin J.
Published: November 2023

Vigorous intermittent exercise can improve indices of glycemia in the 24 h postexercise period in apparently healthy individuals. We examined the effect of a single session of bodyweight exercise (BWE) on glycemic responses using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) under controlled dietary conditions. Healthy inactive adults (n = 27; 8 males, 19 females; age: 23 ± 3 years) completed 2 virtually supervised trials spaced ~ 1 week apart in a randomized, crossover manner. The trials involved an 11-min BWE protocol that consisted of 5 × 1-min bouts performed at a self-selected pace interspersed with 1-min active recovery periods or a non-exercise sitting control period (CON). Mean heart rate during the BWE protocol was 147 ± 14 beats per min (75% of age-predicted maximum). Mean 24 h glucose after BWE and CON was not different (5.0 ± 0.4 vs 5.0 ± 0.5 mM respectively; p = 0.39). There were also no differences between conditions for measures of glycemic variability or the postprandial glucose responses after ingestion of a 75 g glucose drink or lunch, dinner, and breakfast meals. This study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting a remotely supervised BWE intervention using CGM under free-living conditions. Future studies should investigate the effect of repeated sessions of BWE training or responses in people with impaired glycemic control.
Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation over human motor cortex on cognitive-motor and sensory-motor functions
Authors: Rizvi Aoun , Bell Kara , Yang Daniel , Montenegro Maria P. , Kim Hakjoo , Bao Shancheng , Wright David L. , Buchanan John J. , Lei Yuming
Published: November 2023

The primary motor cortex (M1) is broadly acknowledged for its crucial role in executing voluntary movements. Yet, its contributions to cognitive and sensory functions remain largely unexplored. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive neurostimulation method that can modify brain activity, thereby enabling the establishment of a causal link between M1 activity and behavior. This study aimed to investigate the online effects of tDCS over M1 on cognitive-motor and sensory-motor functions. Sixty-four healthy participants underwent either anodal or sham tDCS while concurrently performing a set of standardized robotic tasks. These tasks provided sensitive and objective assessments of brain functions, including action selection, inhibitory control, cognitive control of visuomotor skills, proprioceptive sense, and bimanual coordination. Our results revealed that anodal tDCS applied to M1 enhances decision-making capacity in selecting appropriate motor actions and avoiding distractors compared to sham stimulation, suggesting improved action selection and inhibitory control capabilities. Furthermore, anodal tDCS reduces the movement time required to accomplish bimanual movements, suggesting enhanced bimanual performance. However, we found no impact of anodal tDCS on cognitive control of visuomotor skills and proprioceptive sense. This study suggests that augmenting M1 activity via anodal tDCS influences cognitive-motor and sensory-motor functions in a task-dependent manner.
Comparative analysis identifies genetic and molecular factors associated with prognostic clusters of PANoptosis in glioma, kidney and melanoma cancer
Authors: Mall Raghvendra , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi
Published: November 2023

The importance of inflammatory cell death, PANoptosis, in cancer is increasingly being recognized. PANoptosis can promote or inhibit tumorigenesis in context-dependent manners, and a computational approach leveraging transcriptomic profiling of genes involved in PANoptosis has shown that patients can be stratified into PANoptosis High and PANoptosis Low clusters that have significant differences in overall survival for low grade glioma (LGG), kidney renal cell carcinoma (KIRC) and skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM). However, the molecular mechanisms that contribute to differential prognosis between PANoptosis clusters require further elucidation. Therefore, we performed a comprehensive comparison of genetic, genomic, tumor microenvironment, and pathway characteristics between the PANoptosis High and PANoptosis Low clusters to determine the relevance of each component in driving the differential associations with prognosis for LGG, KIRC and SKCM. Across these cancer types, we found that activation of the proliferation pathway was significantly different between PANoptosis High and Low clusters. In LGG and SKCM, we also found that aneuploidy and immune cell densities and activations contributed to differences in PANoptosis clusters. In individual cancers, we identified important roles for barrier gene pathway activation (in SKCM) and the somatic mutation profiles of driver oncogenes as well as hedgehog signaling pathway activation (in LGG). By identifying these genetic and molecular factors, we can possibly improve the prognosis for at risk-stratified patient populations based on the PANoptosis phenotype in LGG, KIRC and SKCM. This not only advances our mechanistic understanding of cancer but will allow for the selection of optimal treatment strategies.
Green synthesis of quinazoline derivatives using a novel recyclable nano-catalyst of magnetic modified graphene oxide supported with copper
Authors: Momeni Sarieh , Ghorbani‑Vaghei Ramin
Published: November 2023

A new magnetic nano-catalyst system based on graphene oxide was designed and manufactured (GO@Fe3O4@3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane@(Z)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-(pyridin-4-yl)benzohydrazide@Cu(II)), and it was checked and confirmed by various analyzes such as FTIR, XRD, EDX, MAPPING, TGA/DSC, VSM and FESEM. This nano-catalyst was used in the three-component one-pot synthesis of quinazoline derivatives. The products were obtained using this efficient catalyst with high efficiency in short time and solvent-free conditions. Easy separation and acceptable recyclability are other advantages of this new nano-catalyst. Also, the catalyst can be recycled 4 times without a significant change in its efficiency.
The treatment with trandolapril and losartan attenuates pressure and volume overload alternations of cardiac connexin-43 and extracellular matrix in Ren-2 transgenic rats
Authors: Sykora Matus , Kratky Vojtech , Cervenka Ludek , Kopkan Libor , Tribulova Narcis , Szeiffova Bacova Barbara
Published: November 2023

Heart failure (HF) is life-threatening disease due to electro-mechanical dysfunction associated with hemodynamic overload, while alterations of extracellular matrix (ECM) along with perturbed connexin-43 (Cx43) might be key factors involved. We aimed to explore a dual impact of pressure, and volume overload due to aorto-caval fistula (ACF) on Cx43 and ECM as well as effect of renin–angiotensin blockade. Hypertensive Ren-2 transgenic rats (TGR) and normotensive Hannover Sprague–Dawley rats (HSD) that underwent ACF were treated for 15-weeks with trandolapril or losartan. Blood serum and heart tissue samples of the right (RV) and left ventricles (LV) were used for analyses. ACF-HF increased RV, LV and lung mass in HSD and to lesser extent in TGR, while treatment attenuated it and normalized serum ANP, BNP-45 and TBARS. Cx43 protein and its ser368 variant along with PKCε were lower in TGR vs HSD and suppressed in both rat strains due to ACF but prevented more by trandolapril. Pro-hypertrophic PKCδ, collagen I and hydroxyproline were elevated in TGR and increased due to ACF in both rat strains. While SMAD2/3 and MMP2 levels were lower in TGR vs HSD and reduced due to ACF in both strains. Findings point out the strain-related differences in response to volume overload. Disorders of Cx43 and ECM signalling may contribute not only to HF but also to the formation of arrhythmogenic substrate. There is benefit of treatment with trandolapril and losartan indicating their pleiotropic anti-arrhythmic potential. It may provide novel input to therapy.
Analysis of the concurrent validity and reliability of five common clinical goniometric devices
Authors: Kiatkulanusorn Sirirat , Luangpon Nongnuch , Srijunto Wirasinee , Watechagit Sarawoot , Pitchayadejanant Krittipat , Kuharat Sireetorn , Bég O. Anwar , Suato Bhornluck Paepetch
Published: November 2023

Measurement errors play an important role in the development of goniometric equipment, devices used to measure range of motion. Reasonable validity and reliability are critical for both the device and examiner before and after to testing in human subjects. The objective is to evaluate the concurrent validity and reliability of five different clinical goniometric devices for the purpose of establishing an acceptable measurement error margin for a novel device. We explored the validity and inter- and intrarater reliability scores of five goniometric devices namely (i) the universal goniometer (UG), a two-armed hand-held goniometer, (ii) the inclinometer (IC), featuring a single base, fluid level, and gravity-weighted inclinometer, (iii) the digital inclinometer (DI), functioning as both a DI and dynamometer, (iv) the smartphone application (SA), employing gyroscope-based technology within a smartphone platform application and (v) the modified inclinometer (MI), a gravity pendulum-based inclinometer equipped with a specialized fixing apparatus. Measurements were obtained at 12 standard angles and 8 human shoulder flexion angles ranging from 0° to 180°. Over two testing sessions, 120 standardized angle measurements and 160 shoulder angle measurements from 20 shoulders were repetitively taken by three examiners for each device. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated to assess reliability and validity. Concurrent validity was also evaluated through the execution of the 95% limit of agreement (95% LOA) and Bland–Altman plots, with comparisons made to the UG. The concurrent validity for all device pairs was excellent in both study phases (ICC > 0.99, 95% LOA − 4.11° to 4.04° for standard angles, and − 10.98° to 11.36° for human joint angles). Inter- and intrarater reliability scores for standard angles were excellent across all devices (ICC > 0.98, SEM 0.59°–1.75°, MDC 1°–4°), with DI showing superior reliability. For human joint angles, device reliability ranged from moderate to excellent (ICC 0.697–0.975, SEM 1.93°–4.64°, MDC 5°–11° for inter-rater reliability; ICC 0.660–0.996, SEM 0.77°–4.06°, MDC 2°–9° for intra-rater reliability), with SA demonstrating superior reliability. Wider angle measurement however resulted in reduced device reliability. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that it is essential to assess measurement errors independently for standard and human joint angles. The DI is the preferred reference for standard angle testing, while the SA is recommended for human joint angle testing. Separate evaluations across the complete 0°–180° range offer valuable insights.
All-trans retinoic acid and dexamethasone regulate phagocytosis-related gene expression and enhance dead cell uptake in C2C12 myoblast cells
Authors: Adil Ali Maysaa , Garabuczi Éva , Tarban Nastaran , Sarang Zsolt
Published: November 2023

Extensive mechanical stress frequently causes micro-traumas in skeletal muscle, followed by a regeneration period. The effective removal of dead myofibers is a prerequisite for proper regeneration, and several cell types, including professional phagocytes, were reported to be active in this process. Myoblasts express several molecules of the phagocytic machinery, such as BAI1, stabilin-2, and TAM (Tyro3, Axl, Mertk) tyrosine kinase receptors, but these molecules were reported to serve primarily cell fusion and survival, and their role in the phagocytosis was not investigated. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the in vitro phagocytic capacity of the C2C12 mouse myoblast cell line. RNA sequencing data were analyzed to determine the level and changes of phagocytosis-related gene expression during the differentiation process of C2C12 cells. To study the phagocytic capacity of myoblasts and the effect of dexamethasone, all-trans retinoic acid, hemin, and TAM kinase inhibitor treatments on phagocytosis, C2C12 cells were fed dead thymocytes, and their phagocytic capacity was determined by flow cytometry. The effect of dexamethasone and all-trans retinoic acid on phagocytosis-related gene expression was determined by quantitative PCR. Both undifferentiated and differentiated cells engulfed dead cells being the undifferentiated cells more effective. In line with this, we observed that the expression of several phagocytosis-related genes was downregulated during the differentiation process. The phagocytosis could be increased by dexamethasone and all-trans retinoic acid and decreased by hemin and TAM kinase inhibitor treatments. Our results indicate that myoblasts not only express phagocytic machinery genes but are capable of efficient dead cell clearance as well, and this is regulated similarly, as reported in professional phagocytes.
Functional brain region-specific neural spheroids for modeling neurological diseases and therapeutics screening
Authors: Strong Caroline E. , Zhang Jiajing , Carrasco Martin , Kundu Srikanya , Boutin Molly , Vishwasrao Harshad D. , Liu Jiamin , Medina Angelica , Chen Yu-Chi , Wilson Kelli , Lee Emily M. , Ferrer Marc
Published: November 2023

3D spheroids have emerged as powerful drug discovery tools given their high-throughput screening (HTS) compatibility. Here, we describe a method for generating functional neural spheroids by cell-aggregation of differentiated human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons and astrocytes at cell type compositions mimicking specific regions of the human brain. Recordings of intracellular calcium oscillations were used as functional assays, and the utility of this spheroids system was shown through disease modeling, drug testing, and formation of assembloids to model neurocircuitry. As a proof of concept, we generated spheroids incorporating neurons with Alzheimer’s disease-associated alleles, as well as opioid use disorder modeling spheroids induced by chronic treatment of a mu-opioid receptor agonist. We reversed baseline functional deficits in each pilot disease model with clinically approved treatments and showed that assembloid activity can be chemogenetically manipulated. Here, we lay the groundwork for brain region-specific neural spheroids as a robust functional assay platform for HTS studies.
Highly photoactive Ir(iii)–Pt(iv) heterometallic conjugates for anticancer therapy
Authors: Hu Wangman , Liu Rongzhi , Zheng Kai , Wang Zhigang
Published: November 2023

Ir(iii)–Pt(iv) heterometallic conjugates were rapidly activated upon photoirradiation, resulting in apoptosis and immunologic cell death in cancer cells.
Cr-catalysed ethylene dimerization in an ionic liquid-organic solvent biphasic system with perfect 1-butene selectivity
Authors: Thi Kim Chau Nguyen , Kim Seungwhan , Lee Hyo-Jun , Lee Minjae , Chung Young-Min
Published: November 2023

Cr-catalysed ethylene dimerization in an ionic liquid-organic solvent biphasic system affords perfect 1-butene selectivity.
A high valence binary metal–organic framework as an electrode material for aqueous asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Naveen T. B. , Durgalakshmi D. , Balakumar S. , Rakkesh R. Ajay
Published: November 2023

The fabricated hierarchical nanostructure based on NiCo-metal–organic frameworks provides numerous pathways for electron transport, resulting in increased capacitance and superior rate performance.
Observation of the possible magnetic correction above the Curie temperature in Cr2Si2Te6 single crystals
Authors: Sun Yan , Jiang Zhongzhu , Li Yang , Liu Lanxin , Liang Hui , Wang Yiyan , Wu Dandan , Li Na , Zhou Ying , Li Qiuju , Yue Xiaoyu , Tong Wei , Luo Xuan , Lan Jianghe , Sun Xuefeng
Published: November 2023

Cr2Si2Ti6 presents abnormal magnetic critical behavior. The onset of magnetic interaction is observed in the PM state at a T* of 130 K from the ESR measurement; meanwhile, the deviation from Curie–Weiss behavior below T* also confirms the occurrence of magnetic correlation above the TC.
Correlated proton dynamics in hydrogen bonding networks: the benchmark case of 3-hydroxyglutaric acid
Authors: Martínez-Haya Bruno , Avilés-Moreno Juan Ramón , Gámez Francisco , Martens Jonathan , Oomens Jos , Berden Giel
Published: November 2023

The intramolecular H-bonding networks in protonated and deprotonated 3-hydroxyglutaric acid feature intriguing correlated proton dynamics and distinct diffuse vibrational signatures.
Anisotropic structure building unit involving diverse chemical bonds: a new opportunity for high-performance second-order NLO materials
Authors: Liu Xin , Yang Yi-Chang , Li Meng-Yue , Chen Ling , Wu Li-Ming
Published: November 2023

We report the concept of anisotropic structure building units encompassing diverse chemical bonds (ABUCB), which play a crucial role in optimizing the overall second-order nonlinear optical performance of both DUV/UV and IR NLO materials.
Syntheses, characterization, crystal structures and applications as sensitizers in solar cells of novel heteroleptic Cu(i) complexes containing nitrile-substituted 2,2′-bipyridyl ligands
Authors: Tomás Federico M. A. , Calvo Natalia L. , Vega Nadia C. , Vieyra Faustino E. Morán , Vega Daniel R. , Comedi David , Katz Néstor E. , Fagalde Florencia
Published: November 2023

Two novel Cu(i) tetradentate heteroleptic complexes, including nitrile-substituted bipyridines that can be anchored to semiconductor surfaces to be assembled in DSSCs, were synthesized and fully characterized.
Crystal structure of a phenoxyl radical complex relevant to the metal site of the galactose oxidase enzyme: A facile one-pot synthesis, evidence for hydrogen atom transfer and DNA cleavage via self-activation
Authors: Singh Ovender , Singh Anshu , Maji Ankur , Chauhan Rahul , Gupta Puneet , Ghosh Kaushik
Published: November 2023

Hexa-coordinated Cu(ii) phenoxyl radical and non-radical complexes derived from pentadentate ligands have been synthesized as a functional model for galactose oxidase enzyme.
An anti-electrowetting carbon film electrode with self-sustained aeration for industrial H2O2 electrosynthesis
Authors: Cui Lele , Chen Bin , Zhang Longshun , He Chen , Shu Chen , Kang Hongyu , Qiu Jian , Jing Wenheng , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Zhang Zhenghua
Published: November 2023

A novel concept of an anti-electrowetting carbon film electrode with self-sustained aeration was devised and demonstrated to develop next-generation cheap and scalable metal-free electrodes for industry-scale H2O2 electrosynthesis.
Unconventional intermetallic noble metal nanocrystals for energy-conversion electrocatalysis
Authors: Qin Zhuhuang , Wang Tanyuan , Yao Zhangyi , Li Qing
Published: November 2023

The distinctive atomic distance and coordination environment endow the unconventional intermetallic noble metal nanocrystals with enhanced electrochemical performance.
Bioinspired synthesis and biological evaluation of ent-protulactones A and B
Authors: Liang Changxu , Hu Chao , Nie Pengpeng , Liu Yuanfang , Liu Jun , Du Yuguo
Published: November 2023

The bioinspired and stereoselective synthesis of the furo[3,2-b] furan lactone (−)-protulactone A and the dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane lactone (+)-protulactone B has been achieved based on the chiron approach.
Photoinduced morphological transformation of a self-assembled iron(ii) coordination polymer: high-performance, non-precious metal, and self-enhancing photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Fang Youting , Hong Xinyue , Chao Duobin
Published: November 2023

Herein, uncommon self-enhancing photocatalysis has been demonstrated through photoinduced morphology transformation of a self-assembled iron coordination polymer for CO2 photoreduction.
Glassy phases of the Gaussian core model
Authors: Sposini Vittoria , Likos Christos N. , Camargo Manuel
Published: November 2023

Single-particle trajectories of the supercooled Gaussian core model show a transition from intermittent to non-intermittent dynamics upon increasing density.
Hexagonal 2D covalent organic frameworks from nonpolar and symmetric electron-accepting substituents for electron transport layers in near-infrared PeLEDs
Authors: Xu Lili , Zheng Lei , Jing Yu , Guo Xiangyu , Hu Xuemin , Xu Bo , Zhang Shengli
Published: November 2023

High-throughput screening and NAMD calculations indicate that nonpolar and symmetric electron-absorbing substituents in 2D Tp-DAAQ can suppress e–h nonradiative recombination.
Dual photoresponsive & water-triggered nitric oxide releasing materials based on rhodium-based metal–organic polyhedra
Authors: Carmona Francisco J. , Negrão Chuba Thiago , Sánchez-González Elí , Pirillo Jenny , Hijikata Yuh , Furukawa Shuhei
Published: November 2023

Porous materials based on robust rhodium-based metal–organic polyhedra have relevant NO payloads and release them in response to two different stimuli: light and humidity.
A mixed Weyl semimetal in a two-dimensional ferromagnetic BaCrSe2 monolayer
Authors: Yuan Bo , Sun Wenli , Bai Yingxi , Chen Zhiqi , Huang Baibiao , Dai Ying , Niu Chengwang
Published: November 2023

In this work, the topological properties of the ferromagnetic BaCrSe2 monolayer were studied and discussed. It was found to be an ideal candidate of a mixed Weyl semimetal with the mixed Weyl points pinned exactly at the Fermi level.
Understanding trends in conductivity in four isostructural multifunctional crystals of Se substituted bis-dithiazolyl radicals
Authors: Roncero-Barrero C. , Carvajal M. A. , Ribas-Ariño J. , de P. R. Moreira I. , Deumal M.
Published: November 2023

To understand the trends in conductivity in bisdithiazolyl-type radical-based molecular materials, one needs to master a holistic view of the parameters governing the charge transport process (namely, λ, HDA, topology of conduction paths, and ρc).
Annealing activated nickel–molybdenum oxide as an efficient electrocatalyst toward benzyl alcohol upgrading
Authors: Hu Shunda , Sun Xiaoning , Liu Zimeng , Gao Lingfeng , Li Xiaoli , Yu Chunyu , Han Xiangkang , Xie Junfeng , Sun Xu
Published: November 2023

Efficient coupling of economically favorable electro-oxidation reactions with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has been considered as a promising way to realize synergistic production of hydrogen and value-added chemicals.
Alteration in cartilage matrix stiffness as an indicator and modulator of osteoarthritis
Authors: Song Jing , Zeng Xuemin , Li Chenzhi , Yin Hongyan , Mao Sui , Ren Dapeng
Published: November 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by cartilage degeneration and destruction, leading to joint ankylosis and disability. The major challenge in diagnosing OA at early stage is not only lack of clinical symptoms but also the insufficient histological and immunohistochemical signs. Alteration in cartilage stiffness during OA progression, especially at OA initiation, has been confirmed by growing evidences. Moreover, the stiffness of cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM), pericellular matrix (PCM) and chondrocytes during OA development are dynamically changed in unique and distinct fashions, revealing possibly inconsistent conclusions when detecting cartilage matrix stiffness at different locations and scales. In addition, it will be discussed regarding the mechanisms through which OA-related cartilage degenerations exhibit stiffened or softened matrix, highlighting some critical events that generally incurred to cartilage stiffness alteration, as well as some typical molecules that participated in constituting the mechanical properties of cartilage. Finally, in vitro culturing chondrocytes in various stiffness-tunable scaffolds provided a reliable method to explore the matrix stiffness-dependent modulation of chondrocyte metabolism, which offers valuable information on optimizing implant scaffolds to maximally promote cartilage repair and regeneration during OA. Overall, this review systematically and comprehensively elucidated the current progresses in the relationship between cartilage stiffness alteration and OA progression. We hope that deeper attention and understanding in this researching field will not only develop more innovative methods in OA early detection and diagnose but also provide promising ideas in OA therapy and prognosis.
Modeling energetic proton transport in a corotating interaction region
Authors: Tao Xinyi , Shen Fang , Wei Wenwen , Zhu Yuji , Luo Xi , Feng XueShang
Published: November 2023

Aims. An energetic particle event related to a corotating interaction region (CIR) structure was observed by the Solar-Terrestrial Relations Observatory-A (STEREO-A) from 21 to 24 August 2016. Based on an analysis of measurement data, we suggest that instead of being accelerated by distant shocks, a local mechanism similar to diffusive shock acceleration (DSA) acting in the compression region could explain the flux enhancements of 1.8–10.0 MeV nucleon−1 protons. We created simulations to verify our hypothesis.

Methods. We developed a coupled model composed of a data-driven analytical background model providing solar wind configuration and a particle transport model represented by the focused transport equation (FTE). We simulated particle transport in the CIR region of interest in order to obtain the evolution of proton fluxes and derive the spectra.

Results. We find that the simulation is well correlated with the observation. The mechanism of particle scattering back and forth between the trap-like structure of interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) in the compression region is the major factor responsible for the flux enhancements in this energetic particle event, and perpendicular diffusion identified by a ratio of κ⊥/κ|| ∼ 10−2 plays an important role in the temporal evolution of proton fluxes.
Observational signature of continuously operating drivers of decayless kink oscillation
Authors: Li Dong , Li Zhentong , Shi Fanpeng , Su Yang , Chen Wei , Yu Fu , Li Chuan , Qiu Ye , Huang Yu , Ning Zongjun
Published: November 2023

Context. Decayless kink oscillations, which are nearly omnipresent in the solar corona, are believed to be driven by continuously operating energy supply.

Aims. In this Letter, we investigate an external continuous excitation of an apparent decayless oscillation during an X1.1 flare on June 20, 2023 (SOL2023-06-20T16:42).

Methods. The decayless kink oscillation was identified in the coronal loop at extreme ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths and the associated flare quasi-periodic pulsations (QPPs) were simultaneously observed in passbands of hard X-ray (HXR), microwave, and ultraviolet (UV) emissions.

Results. The kink oscillation is detected as a transverse oscillation of the coronal loop, which reveals five apparent cycles with an average period of about 130 ± 10 s. The oscillation amplitude does not show any significantly decay, suggesting a decayless oscillation. At the same time, the solar flare occurs in the vicinity of the oscillating loop and exhibits five main pulses in HXR, microwave, and UV emissions, which could be regarded as flare QPPs. They have similar periods of about 100–130 s, which may indicate successive and repetitive energy releases during the flare impulsive phase. The peak of each loop oscillation cycle appears to follow the pulse of the QPPs, suggesting that the transverse oscillation is closely associated with flare QPPs.

Conclusions. Our observations support the scenario where the repetitive energy released following flare QPPs could be invoked as external, continuously operating drivers of the apparent decayless kink oscillation.
Bridging Mathematics and Cellulose Studies: Investigating Closed Subspaces Hilbert Base Construction
Authors: Sabarinsyah  , Lawi Ansarullah , Jabnabillah Faradiba , Mutiara Lestari Zelvin
Published: November 2023

This research focuses on mathematically analyzing specific aspects of cellulose, particularly its molecular sequences. The goal is to employ Hilbert base construction to quantify and understand the structural and mechanical characteristics of cellulose at the molecular level. This is crucial for advancing our knowledge in plant biology and engineering cellulose-based materials. The study rigorously investigates mathematical properties, such as the equivalence between complete subspaces and closed subspaces, the interplay between closed subspaces and their orthogonal complements, and the existence of the closest vector within the Hilbert space to closed subspaces. The outcomes of this research can be adapted and extended to contribute to the construction and manipulation of Hilbert bases specifically for understanding and characterizing the polymer sequences in cellulose. Moreover, the application of these mathematical concepts extends to both structural and functional analysis of cellulose, encompassing mechanical behavior, chemical interactions, and functional attributes. This rigorous mathematical approach offers a more nuanced understanding of cellulose beyond its physical structure, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in cellulose research and applications.
The Blue Stain Attack and Its Effect on The Mechanical Properties of Five Light-Colour Woods
Authors: Sofiaturizkiyah Nurul , Priadi Trisna
Published: November 2023

The processing of light-color wood often has problems due to blue stain, which can reduce the quality and economic value of the wood. This research aimed to evaluate the intensity of blue stain attack on five light-color woods and the effect on their mechanical properties. Pine, rubber, jabon, sengon, and gmelina logs with an average diameter of 30 cm were turned into 3 cm thickness disc samples for staining fungal test; 2 cm × 2 cm × 30 cm and 3 cm × 3 cm × 6 cm samples for bending and hardness tests respectively. All the samples were exposed to the environment above ground on a rack for six weeks. The results showed that the highest intensity of blue stain attack was found in pine wood (84%), followed by rubber wood (80%), jabon wood (65%), sengon wood (36%), and gmelina wood (27%). The mechanical properties (modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, and hardness) of all wood-attacked blue stains did not significantly differ from their control samples.
Game study on synergistic effect of building supply chain based on blockchain
Authors: Sun Jian-Mei , Liu Zhi-Heng , Jiang Yu-Zheng
Published: November 2023

Due to the unique nature of the construction industry, incorporating supply chain information has been challenging, affecting profit margins and competitiveness. The implementation of blockchain, as a decentralized digital technology, can facilitate the optimal performance of the construction supply chain. In order to measure the economic benefits generated by the synergy effect in the procurement process of the construction supply chain. This paper sorts out the existing problems of the construction supply chain, utilizing the Stackelberg game theory, a game model is established to measure the potential positive effects of incorporating blockchain into the construction supply chain. A preference function incorporating information sharing and competitiveness is used to compare the traditional model with the blockchain mode, in order to quantitatively analyze potential benefits. The findings indicate that blockchain can enhance supplier competitiveness, while improving supply chain participants’ profits, if the cost of implementation is controlled effectively. By enhancing information sharing and quality assurance, inventory costs for general contractors may be reduced. Consequently, blockchain can enable supply chain participants to achieve synergistic effect that enhance the overall value of the construction supply chain.
Techniken der Pulmonalvenenisolation
Authors: Hartmann Kerstin , Techt Lisa
Published: November 2023

Vorhofflimmern gehört zu den häufigsten
Herzrhythmusstörungen und zieht eine Reihe von Folgeerkrankungen nach
sich, z. B. Schlaganfälle oder die Entwicklung einer Herzinsuffizienz.
Eine in der klinischen Routine häufig eingesetzte, invasive Therapieform
ist die Pulmonalvenenisolation. Dieser Artikel beschäftigt sich mit 3
unterschiedlichen Techniken, die hierfür eingesetzt werden.
TI-RADS – Ein Update zur klinischen Anwendung
Authors: Rogasch Julian Michael , Seifert Philipp , Wetz Christoph , Schenke Simone
Published: November 2023

TI-RADS erlaubt eine evidenzbasierte und standardisierte sonografische
Risikostratifizierung von Schilddrüsenknoten. Jedoch sollten
Limitationen und Fallstricke beachtet werden. In diesem Artikel werden Tipps
für einen differenzierten Umgang mit den Befundungskriterien gegeben.
Der Beitrag wendet sich vor allem an Ärztinnen und Ärzte, die
zumindest die Grundlagen von TI-RADS kennen und erste praktische Erfahrungen
haben.
MR-gesteuerte Interventionen der Brust
Authors: Fischer Uwe , Baum Friedemann , Luftner-Nagel Susanne , Meiser Nadia , Ritter Ulla
Published: November 2023

MR-gesteuerte Interventionen sind in der Brustdiagnostik etabliert. Sowohl
Biopsie- und Markierungsvorrichtungen als auch Nadeln für die
Vakuumbiopsie, Markierungsdrähte, Clips und Coils stehen als
MR-kompatibles Equipment zur Verfügung. Diese Publikation beschreibt
über diese Materialien hinaus auch die Indikationen, die
leitliniengemäße Durchführung und potenzielle Fehler bei
MR-gesteuerten Interventionen.
Quantifying the non-Gaussian gain
Authors: Allen David , Satchell Stephen , Lizieri Colin
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we quantify the economic gain from accounting for departures from normality for the mean-variance (MV) investor. We provide two models that account for the key empirical regularities of financial returns: stochastic volatility, asymmetric returns, heavy tails and tail dependence. We show that accounting for departures from normality leads to significant gains in expected utility commensurate with or exceeding typical active management fees. The majority of the uplift in expected utility derives from accounting for stochastic volatility.