bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial differences influence nitrogen uptake, grain yield, and land-use advantage of wheat/soybean relay intercropping systems
Authors: Raza Muhammad Ali , Din Atta Mohi Ud , Zhiqi Wang , Gul Hina , Ur Rehman Sana , Bukhari Birra , Haider Imran , Rahman Muhammad Habib Ur , Liang Xue , Luo Shuanglong , El Sabagh Ayman , Qin Ruijun , Zhongming Ma
Published: October 2023

Cereal/legume intercropping is becoming a popular production strategy for higher crop yields and net profits with reduced inputs and environmental impact. However, the effects of different spatial arrangements on the growth, grain yield, nitrogen uptake, and land-use advantage of wheat/soybean relay intercropping are still unclear, particularly under arid irrigated conditions. Therefore, in a three-year field study from 2018 to 2021, soybean was relay intercropped with wheat in different crop configurations (0.9 m, narrow strips; 1.8 m, medium strips; and 2.7 m, wide strips), and the results of intercropping systems were compared with their sole systems. Results revealed that intercrops with wide strips outperformed the narrow and medium strips, when the objective was to obtain higher total leaf area, dry matter, nitrogen uptake, and grain yield on a given land area due to reduced interspecific competition between intercrops. Specifically, at maturity, wide strips increased the dry matter accumulation (37% and 58%) and its distribution in roots (37% and 55%), straw (40% and 61%), and grains (30% and 46%) of wheat and soybean, respectively, compared to narrow strips. This enhanced dry matter in wide strips improved the soybean’s competitive ability (by 17%) but reduced the wheat’s competitive ability (by 12%) compared with narrow strips. Noticeably, all intercropping systems accumulated a significantly higher amount of nitrogen than sole systems, revealing that wheat/soybean relay intercropping requires fewer anthropogenic inputs (nitrogen) and exerts less pressure on the ecosystem than sole systems. Overall, in wide strips, intercropped wheat and soybean achieved 62% and 71% of sole wheat and soybean yield, respectively, which increased the greater total system yield (by 19%), total land equivalent ratio (by 24%), and net profit (by 34%) of wide strips compared to narrow strips. Our study, therefore, implies that the growth parameters, grain yields, nutrient accumulation, and land-use advantage of intercrop species could be improved with the proper spatial arrangement in cereal/legume intercropping systems.
Adaptive structure evolution and biologically plausible synaptic plasticity for recurrent spiking neural networks
Authors: Pan Wenxuan , Zhao Feifei , Zeng Yi , Han Bing
Published: October 2023

The architecture design and multi-scale learning principles of the human brain that evolved over hundreds of millions of years are crucial to realizing human-like intelligence. Spiking neural network based Liquid State Machine (LSM) serves as a suitable architecture to study brain-inspired intelligence because of its brain-inspired structure and the potential for integrating multiple biological principles. Existing researches on LSM focus on different certain perspectives, including high-dimensional encoding or optimization of the liquid layer, network architecture search, and application to hardware devices. There is still a lack of in-depth inspiration from the learning and structural evolution mechanism of the brain. Considering these limitations, this paper presents a novel LSM learning model that integrates adaptive structural evolution and multi-scale biological learning rules. For structural evolution, an adaptive evolvable LSM model is developed to optimize the neural architecture design of liquid layer with separation property. For brain-inspired learning of LSM, we propose a dopamine-modulated Bienenstock-Cooper-Munros (DA-BCM) method that incorporates global long-term dopamine regulation and local trace-based BCM synaptic plasticity. Comparative experimental results on different decision-making tasks show that introducing structural evolution of the liquid layer, and the DA-BCM regulation of the liquid layer and the readout layer could improve the decision-making ability of LSM and flexibly adapt to rule reversal. This work is committed to exploring how evolution can help to design more appropriate network architectures and how multi-scale neuroplasticity principles coordinated to enable the optimization and learning of LSMs for relatively complex decision-making tasks.
The application of social recommendation algorithm integrating attention model in movie recommendation
Authors: Cui Pengjia , Yin Boshi , Xu Baichuan
Published: October 2023

To improve the accuracy of recommendations, alleviate sparse data problems, and mitigate the homogenization of traditional socialized recommendations, a gated recurrent neural network is studied to construct a relevant user preference model to mine user project preferences. Through the Preference Attention Model Based on Social Relations (PASR), this study extracts user social influence preferences, performs preference fusion, and obtains a Recommendation Algorithm Based on User Preference and Social Influence (UPSI). The study demonstrates that the UPSI algorithm outperforms other methods like the SocialMF algorithm, yielding improved recommendation results, higher HR values, and larger NDCG values. Notably, when the K value equals 25 in Top-K recommendation and using the CiaoDVDs dataset, the NDCG value of the UPSI algorithm is 0.267, which is 0.120 higher than the SocialMF algorithm's score. Considering the user's interaction with the project and their social relationships can enhance the effectiveness of recommendations. Unlike other variants, the UPSI algorithm achieves a maximum hit rate HR value of 0.3713 and NDCG value of 0.2108 in the Douban dataset. In the CiaoDVDs dataset, the maximum hit rate HR value of UPSI is 0.4856, 0.0333 higher than UPS-A, 0.0601 higher than UPS, and 0.0901 higher than UP. Research methods can effectively improve the homogenization problem of traditional socialized recommendations, increase algorithm hit rates and NDCG values. Compared to previous studies, research methods can more fully explore the preference correlation between users, making recommended movies more in line with user requirements.
Research on escalators used as evacuation stairs under fire scenarios
Authors: Zhang Chunhua , Wu Xin , Chen Jinquan , Shen Hai
Published: October 2023

Shopping malls are crowded areas which makes the evacuation routes unable to meet personnel evacuation needs. Therefore, this paper proposes the idea of using escalators evacuation to increasing evacuation routes. In addition, the effects of escalator fire shutters on the use of escalator evacuation paths, and the efficiency of mall personnel evacuation under different conditions were simulated. The results show that the different states of fire shutters have different effects on the emergency evacuation. When the fire shutter is not lowered, it will result in 1 person not being evacuated to complete. However, when the fire shutter is lowered to 1.8 m from the ground or sprinklers are set, escalators can be used for evacuation routes are verified. And compared to the normal descent of the fire shutter (only the staircase evacuation, 2 people not evacuate completed), the evacuation of people is completed and the efficiency of evacuation is improved. This result can improve the new evacuation model for emergency evacuation plans of shopping malls with escalators.
Effects of various extraocular muscle enlargement patterns on muscle diameter index in graves ophthalmopathy patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yang Junjie , Chen Jin , Shi Bingjie , You Yayan , Pi Xiaohuan , Zhao Guang , Jiang Fagang
Published: October 2023

Graves ophthalmopathy (GO) patients often undergo retrobulbar injection of glucocorticoids (GCs) as a common therapeutic approach. This study aimed to explore the impact of various patterns of extraocular muscle (EOM) enlargement on EOM changes following retrobulbar GCs injection in patients with GO. A retrospective analysis was conducted on GO patients who underwent retrobulbar GCs injections. Data pertaining to EOM diameter (EMD) and muscle diameter index (MDI) were collected from orbital computed tomography (CT) scans. The MDI change (ΔMDI) was calculated by comparing pre- and post-injection MDI values. The relationship between each pre EMD/MDI and ΔMDI was assessed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. A total of 68 patients with GO were included in this study, accounting for 118 eyes. After retrobulbar injections of GCs, 84 eyes showed a decrease in the MDI, while 34 eyes exhibited an increase in MDI. A threshold effect was observed in the relationship between medial pre EMD/MDI and ΔMDI. When the medial pre EMD/MDI was less than 0.28, a higher medial pre EMD/MDI was associated with a smaller ΔMDI (β = − 25.21, p = 0.0175). However, when the medial pre EMD/MDI was greater than 0.28, no significant association was found between pre EMD/MDI and ΔMDI. There was a negative correlation between medial + lateral pre EMD/MDI and ΔMDI (β = − 11.76, p < 0.0189). A higher medial + lateral pre EMD/MDI was associated with a greater decrease in MDI. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between superior rectus muscle-levator complex (SRLC) pre EMD/MDI and ΔMDI (β = 11.92, p = 0.040). The higher the value of SRLC pre EMD/MDI, the greater the ΔMDI. There was an association between pre EMD/MDI and changes in EOMs after retrobulbar injection of GCs in GO patients. In patients with predominantly enlarged medial rectus muscles and severe degrees of enlargement, retrobulbar injection of GCs should be assessed for its benefit; a combination of medial and lateral rectus muscle enlargement is beneficial for the shrinkage of EOMs following retrobulbar injections; the involvement of the SRLC rectus muscle may be a disadvantageous pattern of shrinkage of EOMs following retrobulbar injections.

Trial registration This study is retrospectively registered. We have registered this study with the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (www.chictr.org.cn, registration number: ChiCTR2200063429).
Multilingualism is associated with small task-specific advantages in cognitive performance of older adults
Authors: Achaa-Amankwaa Priscilla , Kushnereva Ekaterina , Miksch Hanna , Stumme Johanna , Heim Stefan , Ebersbach Mirjam
Published: October 2023

The protective effects of multiple language knowledge on the maintenance of cognitive functions in older adults have been discussed controversially, among others, because of methodological inconsistencies between studies. In a sample of N = 528 German monolinguals and multilinguals (speaking two or more languages) older than 60 years, this study examined (1) whether speaking multiple languages is positively related to performance on tasks of interference suppression, working memory, concept shifting, and phonemic and semantic fluency, and (2) whether language proficiency and age of second language acquisition (AoA) are associated with cognitive performance of multilinguals. Controlling for education and daily activity, we found small cognitive benefits of speaking multiple languages on interference suppression, working memory, and phonemic fluency, but not on concept shifting and semantic fluency. Furthermore, no substantive correlations were found between language proficiency or AoA and cognitive performance. In conclusion, multilingualism appears to have small incremental effects on cognitive performance beyond education and daily activity in older age that are task-specific and widely independent of proficiency and AoA.
Anti-tumor activity of selinexor in combination with antineoplastic agents in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Vitale Candida , Griggio Valentina , Todaro Maria , Riganti Chiara , Jones Rebecca , Boccellato Elia , Perutelli Francesca , Arruga Francesca , Vaisitti Tiziana , Efremov Dimitar G. , Deaglio Silvia , Landesman Yosef , Bruno Benedetto , Coscia Marta
Published: October 2023

Despite recent relevant therapeutic progresses, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) remains an incurable disease. Selinexor, an oral inhibitor of the nuclear export protein XPO1, is active as single agent in different hematologic malignancies, including CLL. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anti-tumor effects of selinexor, used in combination with chemotherapy drugs (i.e. fludarabine and bendamustine) or with the PI3Kδ inhibitor idelalisib in CLL. Our results showed a significant decrease in CLL cell viability after treatment with selinexor-containing drug combinations compared to each single compound, with demonstration of synergistic cytotoxic effects. Interestingly, this drug synergism was exerted also in the presence of the protective effect of stromal cells. From the molecular standpoint, the synergistic cytotoxic activity of selinexor plus idelalisib was associated with increased regulatory effects of this drug combination on the tumor suppressors FOXO3A and IkBα compared to each single compound. Finally, selinexor was also effective in potentiating the in vivo anti-tumor effects of the PI3Kδ inhibitor in mice treated with the drug combination compared to single agents. Our data provide preclinical evidence of the synergism and potential efficacy of a combination treatment targeting XPO1 and PI3Kδ in CLL.
Gapless edge states localized to odd/even layers of AA′-stacked honeycomb multilayers with staggered AB-sublattice potentials
Authors: Lee Kyu Won , Lee Cheol Eui
Published: October 2023

In honeycomb multilayers with staggered AB-sublattice potentials, we predict gapless edge states localized to either of the odd and the even layers for the AA$$^{\prime }$$

′

stacking order in which the sublattice-pseudospin polarizations of adjacent layers are antiparallel. Gaps in the projected layer-pseudospin spectrum suppress interlayer hopping between odd and even layers. The layer-valley Chern number corresponding to the edge states was obtained by decomposing the occupied state into two layer-pseudospin sectors by using a projected layer-pseudospin operator. For the AB$$^{\prime }$$

′

stacking, the sublattice-pseudospin polarizations of adjacent layers are antiparallel, but the layer-pseudospin spectrum gap closes at the interface of the topologically different states, leading to gapped edge states. For the AA and AB stackings where the sublattice-pseudospin polarizations of the adjacent layers are parallel, the gapless edge states corresponding to quantum valley Hall states are evenly distributed across the layers.
Impact of deoxygenation/reoxygenation processes on the superconducting properties of commercial coated conductors
Authors: Cayado Pablo , Bonura Marco , Lucas Celia , Saule Enora , Rijckaert Hannes , Bagni Tommaso , Konstantopoulou Konstantina , Alessandrini Matteo , Senatore Carmine
Published: October 2023

We report the evolution of the superconducting properties of a commercial coated conductor during deoxygenation and reoxygenation processes. By analyzing the changes on the critical temperature, Tc, and critical current density, Jc, at 4 and 77 K, we have identified the conditions that cause a complete deoxygenation of the coated conductor and, also, the reoxygenation conditions that allow a recovery of the superconducting properties. A complete suppression of superconductivity happens at ~ 500–550 °C under a pure argon flow. After a complete deoxygenation, we observed that a reoxygenation process at ~ 400–450 °C in pure oxygen flow allows, not only a full recovery, but even an improvement in Jc, both at 4 and 77 K. Such an increase of Jc is kept or even enhanced, especially at 77 K, in the presence of magnetic fields up to ~ 6 T. A microstructural analysis by transmission electron microscopy did not give evidence of major differences in the densities of Y2O3 nanoparticles and stacking faults between the pristine and reoxygenated samples, suggesting that these defects should not be the cause of the observed enhancement of Jc. Therefore, the combined action of other types of defects, which could appear as a consequence of our reoxygenation process, and of a new level of oxygen doping should be responsible of the Jc enhancement. The higher Jc that can be achieved by using our simple reoxygenation process opens new parameter space for CCs optimization, which means choosing a proper pO2-temperature–time trajectory for optimizing Jc.
GEFAAR: a generic framework for the analysis of antimicrobial resistance providing statistics and cluster analyses
Authors: Sandmann Sarah , Schaumburg Frieder , Varghese Julian
Published: October 2023

Easy access to antimicrobial resistance data and meaningful visualization is essential to guide the empirical antimicrobial treatment and to promote the rational use of antimicrobial agents. Currently available solutions are commonly externally hosted, centralized systems. However, there is a need for close monitoring by local analysis tools. To fill this gap, we developed GEFAAR—a generic framework for the analysis of antimicrobial resistance data. Following the example of the German Robert Koch Institute (RKI), an interactive web-application is provided to determine basic pathogen and resistance statistics. In addition to the RKI’s externally maintained database, our application provides a generic framework to import tabular data and to analyze them safely in a local environment. Moreover, our application offers an intuitive web-based user interface to visualize resistance trend analysis as well as advanced cluster analyses on species- or clinic/unit level to generate alerts of potential transmission events.
Comparison of corneal measurements using two different Scheimpflug analyzers in Sirius and Pentacam devices
Authors: Abdi Parisa , Atighehchian Mehrnaz , Farsiani Amir Reza
Published: October 2023

The aim was to compare measurements of anterior segment biometry parameters using two Scheimpflug tomographies, Pentacam and Sirius to assess the agreement. Prospective cross-sectional observational study. A total of 60 eyes of 30 healthy subjects were included and evaluated with Pentacam followed by Sirius imaging. Corneal indices were performed with two modalities in both eyes including; apical corneal thickness (ACT), corneal thickness at pupil site(PCT), thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), chamber angle, chamber volume, cornea volume, mean front keratometry (FKm), the radius of corneal curvature at the anterior and posterior surface in steep and flat meridian, anterior astigmatism values, pupil diameter, and horizontal corneal diameter. The Bland–Altman graph and ICC (intra-class correlation were used to establish an agreement and present the similarity of the findings. Most parameters showed perfect agreement. In both devices, the ICC was more than 0.91 in all measurements except for ACD (ICC = 0.820), cylinder axis (ICC = 0.520), TCT(ICC = 0.881), ACT(ICC = 0.672), PCT (ICC = 0.882), chamber angle (ICC = 0.362), pupil diameter(ICC = 0.137). Pentacam yielded higher values that were significant in five parameters including 3.47 μm for TCT, 4.29 µm for PCT, 10.03 mm3 for chamber volume,2.67 mm3 for cornea volume, and 1.49 mm for pupil diameter but there was only a statistically significant difference in cornea volume and pupil diameter (p-value < 0.001). However, in Pentacam only the chamber angle value was 6.44 mm3 lower than Sirius, with a statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.001). Although these two devices had some statistically different results, it seems that they have a good agreement and correlation in most parameters.
Muscarinic receptor agonist-induced βPix binding to β-catenin promotes colon neoplasia
Authors: Cheng Kunrong , Chahdi Ahmed , Larabee Shannon M. , Tolaymat Mazen , Sundel Margaret H. , Drachenberg Cinthia B. , Zhan Min , Hu Shien , Said Anan H. , Shang Aaron C. , Xie Guofeng , Alizadeh Madeline , Moura Natalia Sampaio , Bafford Andrea C. , Williams Richelle T. , Hanna Nader N. , Raufman Jean-Pierre
Published: October 2023

M3 muscarinic receptors (M3R) modulate β-catenin signaling and colon neoplasia. CDC42/RAC guanine nucleotide exchange factor, βPix, binds to β-catenin in colon cancer cells, augmenting β-catenin transcriptional activity. Using in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches, we explored whether these actions are regulated by M3R. At the invasive fronts of murine and human colon cancers, we detected co-localized nuclear expression of βPix and β-catenin in stem cells overexpressing M3R. Using immunohistochemistry, immunoprecipitation, proximity ligand, and fluorescent cell sorting assays in human tissues and established and primary human colon cancer cell cultures, we detected time-dependent M3R agonist-induced cytoplasmic and nuclear association of βPix with β-catenin. βPix knockdown attenuated M3R agonist-induced human colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and expression of PTGS2, the gene encoding cyclooxygenase-2, a key player in colon neoplasia. Overexpressing βPix dose-dependently augmented β-catenin binding to the transcription factor TCF4. In a murine model of sporadic colon cancer, advanced neoplasia was attenuated in conditional knockout mice with intestinal epithelial cell deficiency of βPix. Expression levels of β-catenin target genes and proteins relevant to colon neoplasia, including c-Myc and Ptgs2, were reduced in colon tumors from βPix-deficient conditional knockout mice. Targeting the M3R/βPix/β-catenin axis may have therapeutic potential.
Chimpanzees select comfortable nesting tree species
Authors: Lacroux Camille , Krief Sabrina , Douady Stéphane , Cornette Raphaël , Durand Sophie , Aleeje Alfred , Asalu Edward , Pouydebat Emmanuelle
Published: October 2023

Every evening, chimpanzees build sleeping “nests” in trees. In some studied communities, individuals appear to be selective about the tree species used, which has led researchers to hypothesize whether chimpanzees prefer trees that repel troublesome insects or/and that provide comfortable and stable structures. We investigate these hypotheses, or a trade-off between both, though study of tree species preference based on their biomechanical and/or biochemical properties in the Sebitoli chimpanzee community in Kibale National Park, Uganda. The ten tree species most frequently used for nesting were compared with ten abundant in their environment but not preferred for nesting. For these 20 tree species, we determined their biomechanical and morphological characteristics such as foliar density, foliar units form (shape and size) and branch rigidity. Their spatial repellent activity, previously tested against Anopheles gambiae was incorporated into the analysis. Chimpanzees chose tree species with medium-sized and elongated foliar units, high foliar density and branch with stiffer wood. In addition, most tree species with such mechanical and morphological properties also have mosquito repellent activity. These tree properties may provide a comfortable sleeping environment enhancing sleep quality. Finally, a comparison across chimpanzee communities would be relevant to understand whether these choices are not only ecological but also cultural.
Robust process capability indices Cpm and Cpmk using Weibull process
Authors: Kashif Muhammad , Ullah Sami , Aslam Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Zafer
Published: October 2023

Process Capability Indices (PCIs) are very helpful to measure the manufacturing capability and production quality of the products in many manufacturing processes. These PCIs are calculated by using a relationship between process mean and standard deviation, provided that process follows a normal distribution. In case of non-normal processes many researchers recommended the use of robust PCIs by modifying the classical PCIs. In case of robust PCIs most of the work is reported on first- and second-generation PCIs but less work is reported on third generation PCIs. The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of three dispersion measures, namely median absolute deviation (MAD), interquartile range (IQR), and Gini's mean difference (GMD), as a measure of dispersion in third generation PCIs and construct their bootstrap confidence intervals (CIs). The efficacy of these measures is compared with quantile-based PCIs under different asymmetric behaviour of the Weibull process. The results showed that quantile-based PCIs are strongly influenced by high asymmetry and IQR method provides a poor estimator across all sample sizes. On the other hand, the GMD method performed well under low, moderate, and high asymmetry of the Weibull process, but its irregular behavior needs to be addressed carefully. Among all selected four methods MAD-method performed better under low and moderate asymmetric conditions. In case of interval estimation, bias-corrected percentile (BCPB) CIs was recommended for quantile-based PCIs, while percentile (PB) and percentile-t (PTB) CIs were recommended for MAD-based PCIs under all asymmetric conditions. To validate the simulated findings, two real-world datasets were analyzed that supported the simulation results.
Long-time irradiation effect on corrosion behavior of aluminum alloy in pool water of low-power research reactor
Authors: Bagherzadeh Mojtaba , Karimi Meysam , Choopan Dastjerdi Mohammad Hosein , Asadi Asadabad Mohsen , Mokhtari Javad , Babanejhad Afshin
Published: October 2023

This study conducted an evaluation of the corrosion behavior of an aluminum alloy utilized in the Isfahan Miniature Neutron Source Reactor (MNSR). The component analyzed, dry channel (DC), had been exposed to radiation for 12 years in a water environment within the reactor pool since its installation. To determine the effect of radiation on the corrosion of the LT-21 aluminum alloy used in the DC, different parts of the pipe were sampled and various tests were performed. These tests included mechanical strengths (impact, and micro-hardening), XRD, TEM, SEM–EDS, and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP). The parameters measured included corrosion potential, corrosion rate, changes in microscopic structure, and mechanical properties of the aluminum alloy along the entire length of the DC. The neutron and gamma dose distribution along the height of the DC, which was 540 cm, was calculated to determine the correlation between the dose distribution and observed corrosion. The study found that the corrosion mechanisms were complex and resulted from the simultaneous presence of the DC in the pool water and radiation from the reactor core. The observed results are presented and discussed in this study.
MCPIP1 functions as a safeguard of early embryonic development
Authors: Lichawska-Cieslar Agata , Szukala Weronika , Prajsnar Tomasz K. , Pooranachandran Niedharsan , Kulecka Maria , Dabrowska Michalina , Mikula Michal , Rakus Krzysztof , Chadzinska Magdalena , Jura Jolanta
Published: October 2023

Monocyte chemoattractant protein-induced protein 1 (MCPIP1), also called Regnase-1, is an RNase that has been described as a key negative modulator of inflammation. MCPIP1 also controls numerous tumor-related processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. In this study, we utilized a zebrafish model to investigate the role of Mcpip1 during embryogenic development. Our results demonstrated that during embryogenesis, the expression of the zc3h12a gene encoding Mcpip1 undergoes dynamic changes. Its transcript levels gradually increase from the 2-cell stage to the spherical stage and then decrease rapidly. We further found that ectopic overexpression of wild-type Mcpip1 but not the catalytically inactive mutant form resulted in an embryonic lethal phenotype in zebrafish embryos (24 hpf). At the molecular level, transcriptomic profiling revealed extensive changes in the expression of genes encoding proteins important in the endoplasmic reticulum stress response and in protein folding as well as involved in the formation of primary germ layer, mesendoderm and endoderm development, heart morphogenesis and cell migration. Altogether, our results demonstrate that the expression of zc3h12a must be tightly controlled during the first cell divisions of zebrafish embryos and that a rapid decrease in its mRNA expression is an important factor promoting proper embryo development.
Enhanced atmospheric water harvesting efficiency through green-synthesized MOF-801: a comparative study with solvothermal synthesis
Authors: Aghajani Hashjin Mohammad , Zarshad Shadi , Motejadded Emrooz Hosein Banna , Sadeghzadeh Sadegh
Published: October 2023

Adsorption-based atmospheric water harvesting has emerged as a compelling solution in response to growing global water demand. In this context, Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have garnered considerable interest due to their unique structure and intrinsic porosity. Here, MOF 801 was synthesized using two different methods: solvothermal and green room temperature synthesis. Comprehensive characterization indicated the formation of MOF-801 with high phase purity, small crystallite size, and excellent thermal stability. Nitrogen adsorption–desorption analysis revealed that green-synthesized MOF-801 possessed an 89% higher specific surface area than its solvothermal-synthesized counterpart. Both adsorbents required activation at a minimum temperature of 90 °C for optimal adsorption performance. Additionally, green-synthesized MOF-801 demonstrated superior adsorption performance compared to solvothermal-synthesized MOF-801, attributed to its small crystal size (around 66 nm), more hydrophilic functional groups, greater specific surface area (691.05 m2/g), and the possibility of having a higher quantity of defects. The maximum water adsorption capacity in green-synthesized MOF-801 was observed at 25 °C and 80% relative humidity, with a value of 41.1 g/100 g, a 12% improvement over the solvothermal-synthesized MOF-801. Remarkably, even at a 30% humidity level, green-synthesized MOF-801 displayed a considerable adsorption capacity of 31.5 g/100 g. Importantly, MOF-801 exhibited long-term effectiveness in multiple adsorption cycles without substantial efficiency decline.
Cryo-EM elucidates the uroplakin complex structure within liquid-crystalline lipids in the porcine urothelial membrane
Authors: Yanagisawa Haruaki , Kita Yoshihiro , Oda Toshiyuki , Kikkawa Masahide
Published: October 2023

The urothelium, a distinct epithelial tissue lining the urinary tract, serves as an essential component in preserving urinary tract integrity and thwarting infections. The asymmetric unit membrane (AUM), primarily composed of the uroplakin complex, constitutes a critical permeability barrier in fulfilling this role. However, the molecular architectures of both the AUM and the uroplakin complex have remained enigmatic due to the paucity of high-resolution structural data. In this study, we utilized cryo-electron microscopy to elucidate the three-dimensional structure of the uroplakin complex within the porcine AUM. While the global resolution achieved was 3.5 Å, we acknowledge that due to orientation bias, the resolution in the vertical direction was determined to be 6.3 Å. Our findings unveiled that the uroplakin complexes are situated within hexagonally arranged crystalline lipid membrane domains, rich in hexosylceramides. Moreover, our research rectifies a misconception in a previous model by confirming the existence of a domain initially believed to be absent, and pinpointing the accurate location of a crucial Escherichia coli binding site implicated in urinary tract infections. These discoveries offer valuable insights into the molecular underpinnings governing the permeability barrier function of the urothelium and the orchestrated lipid phase formation within the plasma membrane.
A geospatial analysis of accessibility and availability to implement the primary healthcare roadmap in Ethiopia
Authors: Hierink Fleur , Oladeji Olusola , Robins Ann , Muñiz Maria F. , Ayalew Yejimmawerk , Ray Nicolas
Published: October 2023

Background

Primary healthcare (PHC) is a crucial strategy for achieving universal health coverage. Ethiopia is working to improve its primary healthcare system through the Optimization of Health Extension Program (OHEP), which aims to increase accessibility, availability and performance of health professionals and services. Measuring current accessibility of healthcare facilities and workforce availability is essential for the success of the OHEP and achieving universal health coverage in the country.

Methods

In this study we use an innovative mixed geospatial approach to assess the accessibility and availability of health professionals and services to provide evidence-based recommendations for the implementation of the OHEP. We examined travel times to health facilities, referral times between health posts and health centers, geographical coverage, and the availability and density of health workers relative to the population.

Results

Our findings show that the accessibility and availability of health services in Somali region of Ethiopia is generally low, with 65% of the population being unable to reach a health center or a health post within 1 h walking and referral times exceeding 4 h walking on average. The density of the health workforce is low across Somali region, with no health center being adequately staffed as per national guidelines.

Conclusions

Improving accessibility and addressing healthcare worker scarcity are challenges for implementing the primary care roadmap in Ethiopia. Upgrading health posts and centers, providing comprehensive services, and training healthcare workers are crucial. Effective outreach strategies are also needed to bridge the gap and improve accessibility and availability.
Volumetric computed tomography with carbon nanotube X-ray source array for improved image quality and accuracy
Authors: Xu Shuang , Hu Yuanming , Li Boyuan , Inscoe Christina R. , Tyndall Donald A. , Lee Yueh Z. , Lu Jianping , Zhou Otto
Published: October 2023

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used in medical and dental imaging. Compared to a multidetector CT, it provides volumetric images with high isotropic resolution at a reduced radiation dose, cost and footprint without the need for patient translation. The current CBCT has several intrinsic limitations including reduced soft tissue contrast, inaccurate quantification of X-ray attenuation, image distortions and artefacts, which have limited its clinical applications primarily to imaging hard tissues and made quantitative analysis challenging. Here we report a multisource CBCT (ms-CBCT) which overcomes the shortcomings of the conventional CBCT by using multiple narrowly collimated and rapidly scanning X-ray beams from a carbon nanotube field emission source array. Phantom imaging studies show that, the ms-CBCT increases the accuracy of the Hounsfield unit values by 60%, eliminates the cone beam artefacts, extends the axial coverage, and improves the soft tissue contrast-to-noise ratio by 30–50%, compared to the CBCT configuration.
Bioinspired immuno-radio-enhancers toward synergistic nanomedicine through radiation-induced abscopal effects and immunocheckpoint blockade therapies
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Chen Hu , Chen Chuan , Liu Xuan , Cheng Hongwei , Wu Yaming , Wang Xiaoyong , Liu Gang , Zeng Yun
Published: October 2023

Membrane-cloaked manganese dioxide nanoparticles displaying anti-PD-L1 antibodies were developed as targeted immuno-radio-enhancers with a CpG immunomodulator encapsulated.
Machine learning-augmented docking. 1. CYP inhibition prediction
Authors: Weiser Benjamin , Genzling Jérôme , Burai-Patrascu Mihai , Rostaing Ophélie , Moitessier Nicolas
Published: October 2023

Machine learning-augmented docking: enhancing physics-based docking with XGB to achieve state-of-the-art CYP inhibition prediction resulting in enhanced accuracy while maintaining generalizability.
Evaluation of tin nitride (Sn3N4) via atomic layer deposition using novel volatile Sn precursors
Authors: Park Hyeonbin , Choi Heenang , Shin Sunyoung , Park Bo Keun , Kang Kibum , Ryu Ji Yeon , Eom Taeyong , Chung Taek-Mo
Published: October 2023

Novel tin precursor with iminopyrrolidine moieties was synthesized and investigated for Sn3N4 thin films via the ALD process.
Azaacene containing iridium(iii) phosphors: elaboration of the π-conjugation effect and application in highly efficient solution-processed near-infrared OLEDs
Authors: Li Min , Wang Li , You Caifa , Liu Denghui , Zhang Kai , Zhu Weiguo
Published: October 2023

Two NIR-emitting Ir(iii) phosphors based on acene-fused diazaacene are designed and synthesized. The light-emitting devices using both complexes as dopants achieve a maximum EQE of 8.00% at 716 nm and 3.53% at 772 nm, respectively.
An ethynyl-modified interpenetrated metal–organic framework for highly efficient selective gas adsorption
Authors: Yu Xueyue , Huang Ziyang , Krishna Rajamani , Luo Xiaolong , Liu Yunling
Published: October 2023

Compound 1 has been constructed by using expanded ethynyl-modified tetracarboxylates ligands and Cu2(CO2)4 paddle-wheel building units, and exhibits excellent adsorption and separation behavior for light hydrocarbons.
Deep eutectic solvents as a versatile platform toward CO2 capture and utilization
Authors: Ruan Jiawei , Chen Lifang , Qi Zhiwen
Published: October 2023

Deep eutectic solvents provide a versatile platform for CO2 capture and subsequent conversion into value-added chemicals.
A new appraisal of ilmenite U–Pb dating method by LA-SF-ICP-MS
Authors: Tang Yanwen , Lan Tingguang , Gao Jianfeng , Bai Zhongjie , Huang Xiaowen , Han Junjie , Liu Na
Published: October 2023

Zircon has a similar U–Pb fractionation and average normalized Pb/U ratio with ilmenite; our direct calibration method using zircon 91500 as an external standard is effective for in situ U–Pb dating of ilmenite under wide ablation settings.
Nanoporous oxide electrodes for energy conversion and storage devices
Authors: Yang Jin Wook , Kwon Hee Ryeong , Seo Jin Ho , Ryu Sangwoo , Jang Ho Won
Published: October 2023

Nanoporous oxides have been established as key materials for constructing electrodes for energy conversion and storage devices, offering high surface area and a large number of active sites for electrochemical reactions.
Fabrication of membrane proteins in the form of native cell membrane nanoparticles using novel membrane active polymers
Authors: Hoang Trinh Thi Kim , Catalano Claudio , Guo Youzhong
Published: October 2023

Fabrication of membrane proteins in the form of native cell membrane nanoparticles using NCMN polymers.
Tb- and Eu-doped yttrium oxyselenides as novel absorber layers for superstrate thin-film photovoltaics: improved spectral optical absorption and green–red phosphor activation
Authors: Nwambaekwe Kelechi C. , Ramoroka Morongwa E. , Yussuf Sodiq T. , Morudu Tshaamano C. , Ndipingwi Miranda M. , Iwuoha Emmanuel I.
Published: October 2023

Doped-inner transition metal oxychalcogenides as emerging materials for improved capture of solar energy and its transformation into other useful energies.
Ligand-mediated electron transport channels enhance photocatalytic activity of plasmonic nanoparticles
Authors: Joshi Gayatri , Kashyap Rajesh , Patrikar Kalyani , Mondal Anirban , Khatua Saumyakanti
Published: October 2023

We demonstrate that some organic ligands can provide electron transport channels that facilitate hot electron extraction from a gold nanostructure leading to a huge enhancement in the rate of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction.
Exceptional ultrafast nonlinear optical response of functionalized silicon nanosheets
Authors: Stavrou Michalis , Mühlbach Amelie M. , Arapakis Vasilios , Groß Elisabeth , Kratky Tim , Günther Sebastian , Rieger Bernhard , Couris Stelios
Published: October 2023

This study reveals that the functionalization of silicon nanosheets with styrene and tBuMA leads to nanostructures with exceptional nonlinear optical response. These nanostructures could have potential applications in optoelectronics and photonics.
Catalyst-free, atom-economical and regioselective multicomponent polymerizations of diamines, CS2, and diepoxides toward functional polydithiourethanes
Authors: Zhao Xu , Wang Linlin , Zhou Guodong , Feng Shengyu , Li Lei
Published: October 2023

In this work, the first example of room temperature one-step conversion from CS2 to hydroxyl-functional polydithiourethanes is demonstrated through a multicomponent polymerization of diamines, CS2, and diepoxides.
Th@C2(8)-C84 and Th@Cs(15)-C84: impact of actinide metal ions on the electronic structures of actinide endohedral metallofullerenes
Authors: Cao Tiantian , Meng Qingyu , Fu Ze , Shen Yi , Yan Yingjing , Wang Qin , Zhao Bing , Wang Wenxia , Merimi Khaoula , Rodríguez-Fortea Antonio , Yao Yang-Rong , Chen Ning
Published: October 2023

Two novel endohedral metallofullerenes, Th@C2(8)-C84 and Th@Cs(15)-C84, have been successfully synthesized and fully characterized. Spectroscopic studies suggest that endohedral actinide metal atoms have an important impact on the electronic structures of actinide metallofullerenes.
Different strategies to facilitate meaningful reflections among post-secondary students in a community service learning water project
Authors: Ho Karen , Smith Sahara R. , Clark Douglas B.
Published: October 2023

This study explored how continuous diverse reflective exercises embedded in a Community Service Learning chemistry lab support science students' meaningful learning. The findings of this study are intended for those involved in teaching natural science in higher education, as well as those interested in Community Service Learning, self-directed learning, and reflective strategies. Fourteen students in a second-year Analytical Chemistry II lab participated in this study. Reflective exercises representing multiple modes of reflection were purposefully designed and embedded across the lab curriculum. Qualitative content analysis of data from reflective writings, scrapbook reflections, and reflective discussions demonstrates that students were able to articulate their self-directed learning from the perspective of academic enhancement, personal growth, and civic engagement in the different reflective exercises. Students indicated a high level of satisfaction, agreed that the integration of diverse continuous reflective strategies can enhance their transformative learning practice in an engaging way, and would like to continue this practice for other science laboratory courses.
Variation from closed-shell to open shell electronic structures in oligothiophene bis(dioxolene) complexes
Authors: Miller Paul D. , Shultz David A. , Mengell Joshua , Kirk Martin L. , Wojtas Lukasz
Published: October 2023

A symmetry-based model that explicitly includes the bridge fragment is used to explain a continuum of electronic structures for Kekulé-type biradicals.
Metal–organic framework-derived CoNx nanoparticles on N-doped carbon for selective N-alkylation of aniline
Authors: Vyas Ved , Maurya Priyanka , Indra Arindam
Published: October 2023

The Co–N coordination in CoNx@NC (NCN-doped carbon) was found to be beneficial in producing high conversion efficiency and high yield for secondary amines in the N-alkylation reaction between alcohol and aniline.
Exploring the potential of triple conducting perovskite cathodes for high-performance solid oxide fuel cells: a comprehensive review
Authors: Lu Lingxiao , Liu Yu , Zhang Hualiang , Xu Yujie , Chen Haisheng
Published: October 2023

We report many factors that affect the uptake and conduction of ions of triple conducting perovskites (TCPs) and the current research progress of TCPs by dividing TCPs into three categories.
Knotted fiber-based strain sensors with tunable sensitivity and a sensing region for monitoring wearable physiological signals and human motion
Authors: Zhong Weibing , Liu Weiwei , Ke Yiming , Jia Kangyu , Ming Xiaojuan , Li Mufang , Wang Dong , Chen Yan , Jiang Haiqing
Published: October 2023

The knotted fiber-based strain sensor has tunable sensitivity and sensing region, making it suitable for monitoring wearable physiological signals and human motion with outstanding-comfort.
BAlGaN light‐emitting diode emitting at 350 nm
Authors: Milner Peter , Zubialevich Vitaly Z. , O'Connor Thomas , Singh Sandeep M. , Singh Davinder , Corbett Brian , Parbrook Peter J.
Published: October 2023

In this work, the authors report the first demonstration of an ultraviolet light‐emitting diode (LED) with boron‐containing quantum wells (QWs). Secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements revealed a B concentration of 1% in the first QW with an increase in subsequent QWs and lingering decay into the p‐region, likely attributable to boron's surfactant nature. Electroluminescence emission from the BAlGaN LED was observed at 350 nm, with higher intensity compared to the AlGaN reference LED at low currents. A higher operating voltage compared to the reference LED was also observed which may be attributable to a nanomasking behaviour of boron in (Al)GaN alloys.
The young massive SMC cluster NGC 330 seen by MUSE
Authors: Bodensteiner J. , Sana H. , Dufton P. L. , Wang C. , Langer N. , Banyard G. , Mahy L. , de Koter A. , de Mink S. E. , Evans C. J. , Götberg Y. , Hénault-Brunet V. , Patrick L. R. , Schneider F. R. N.
Published: October 2023

Context. The origin of the initial rotation rates of stars, and how a star’s surface rotational velocity changes during the evolution, either by internal angular momentum transport or due to interactions with a binary companion, remain open questions in stellar astrophysics.

Aims. Here, we aim to derive the physical parameters and study the distribution of (projected) rotational velocities of B-type stars in the ∼35 Myr-old, massive cluster NGC 330 in the Small Magellanic Cloud. NGC 330 is in an age range where the number of post-interaction binaries is predicted to be high near the cluster turnoff (TO).

Methods. We developed a simultaneous photometric and spectroscopic grid-fitting method adjusting atmosphere models on multiband Hubble Space Telescope (HST) photometry and Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) spectroscopy. This allowed us to homogeneously constrain the physical parameters of over 250 B and Be stars (i.e., B-type stars with emission lines), brighter than mF814W = 18.8 mag.

Results. The rotational velocities of Be stars in NGC 330 are significantly higher than the ones of B-type stars. The rotational velocities vary as a function of the star’s position in the color-magnitude diagram, qualitatively following predictions of binary population synthesis. A comparison to younger clusters shows that stars in NGC 330 rotate more rapidly on average.

Conclusions. The rotational velocities of the ∼35 Myr old population in NGC 330 quantitatively agree with predictions for a stellar population that underwent significant binary interactions: the majority of the B-type stars could be single stars or primaries in pre-interaction binaries. The rapidly spinning Be stars could be mass and angular momentum gainers in previous interactions, while those Be stars close to the TO may be spun-up single stars. The slowly rotating, apparently single stars above the TO could be merger products. The different v sin i characteristics of NGC 330 compared to younger populations can be understood in this framework.