bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Hot Versus Dry Vapor Pressure Deficit on Ecosystem Carbon and Water Fluxes
Authors: Johnston Miriam R. , Barnes Mallory L. , Preisler Yakir , Smith William K. , Biederman Joel A. , Scott Russell L. , Williams A. Park , Dannenberg Matthew P.
Published: January 2025

Vapor pressure deficit (VPD) has increased and will likely continue increasing, with wide‐ranging effects on ecosystems. Future VPD increases will largely be driven by warming, yet most experiments examining VPD effects on plants have done so by changing humidity. Here, we used meteorological data and carbon and water fluxes measured at 26 climatically‐diverse eddy covariance sites to quantify the extent to which VPD has been driven by variation in air temperature versus humidity. We fit generalized additive models (GAMs) at each site to quantify effects of hotter (and wetter) and cooler (and drier) versus typical VPD on ecosystem‐scale fluxes of carbon and water. We found that VPD has occurred under diverse combinations of temperature and humidity: >50% of a site's daytime growing season temperature range and >35% of its relative humidity range have often combined to define a particular VPD. We found moderate evidence that hotter versus drier VPD of the same magnitude differentially affect gross primary productivity (GPP), net ecosystem productivity (NEP), and latent heat flux (LE): Selected GPP and NEP GAMs at about half of sites and LE GAMs at about a third of sites included a VPD‐temperature interaction. The magnitude of the interaction varied, but was generally 29%–57% of the effect attributable solely to VPD. The direction of the interaction also varied, but hot VPD was commonly associated with higher carbon fluxes. These effects were not strongly modified by soil moisture. Overall, results emphasize the relevance of VPD‐temperature interactions at a critical time of rapid VPD increase.
A safe haven for cancer cells: tumor plus stroma control by DYRK1B
Authors: Ems Miriam , Brichkina Anna , Lauth Matthias
Published: January 2025

The development of resistance remains one of the biggest challenges in clinical cancer patient care and it comprises all treatment modalities from chemotherapy to targeted or immune therapy. In solid malignancies, drug resistance is the result of adaptive processes occurring in cancer cells or the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME). Future therapy attempts will therefore benefit from targeting both, tumor and stroma compartments and drug targets which affect both sides will be highly appreciated. In this review, we describe a seemingly paradoxical oncogenic mediator with this potential: The dual-specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation regulated kinase 1B (DYRK1B). DYRK1B promotes proliferative quiescence and yet is overexpressed or amplified in many hyperproliferative malignancies including ovarian cancer and pancreatic cancer. In particular the latter disease is a paradigmatic example for a therapy-recalcitrant and highly stroma-rich cancer entity. Here, recent evidence suggests that DYRK1B exerts its oncogenic features by installing a protective niche for cancer cells by directly affecting cancer cells but also the TME. Specifically, DYRK1B not only fosters cell-intrinsic processes like cell survival, chemoresistance, and disease recurrence, but it also upregulates TME and cancer cell-protective innate immune checkpoints and down-modulates anti-tumoral macrophage functionality. In this article, we outline the well-established cell-autonomous roles of DYRK1B and extend its importance to the TME and the control of the tumor immune stroma. In summary, DYRK1B appears as a single novel key player creating a safe haven for cancer cells by acting cell-intrinsically and—extrinsically, leading to the promotion of cancer cell survival, chemoresistance, and relapse. Thus, DYRK1B appears as an attractive drug target for future therapeutic approaches.
Extracellular vesicles from pancreatic cancer and its tumour microenvironment promote increased Schwann cell migration
Authors: Wong Fang Cheng , Merker Sebastian R. , Bauer Lisa , Han Yi , Le Van Manh Hung , Wenzel Carina , Böthig Lukas , Heiduk Max , Drobisch Pascal , Rao Venkatesh Sadananda , Malekian Farzaneh , Mansourkiaei Ana , Sperling Christian , Polster Heike , Pecqueux Mathieu , Istvanffy Rouzanna , Ye Linhan , Kong Bo , Aust Daniela E. , Baretton Gustavo , Seifert Lena , Seifert Adrian M. , Weitz Jürgen , Demir Ihsan Ekin , Kahlert Christoph
Published: January 2025

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) exhibits a high frequency of neural invasion (NI). Schwann cells (SCs) have been shown to be reprogrammed to facilitate cancer cell migration and invasion into nerves. Since extracellular vesicles (EVs) affect the tumour microenvironment and promote metastasis, the present study analysed the involvement of EVs from pancreatic cancer cells and their microenvironment in altering SC phenotype as part of the early events in the process of NI.

Methods

EVs were isolated from human/murine PDAC cells, pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), human tissues and plasma to perform a novel 3D migration assay, qRT-PCR and western blot. Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses were employed to evaluate the clinical potential of plasma EV-derived candidate from 165 PDAC patients.

Results

The EVs from PDAC cells, PSCs derived from human tumour tissues, other cell types in the tumour microenvironment from tumour tissues and circulating plasma act as drivers of a pro-migratory phenotype of SCs by inducing dedifferentiation in SCs. Notably, p75NTR expression was upregulated in the plasma-derived EVs from patients with NI (Pn1) relative to those without NI (Pn0). High expression of plasma-derived EV p75NTR correlated with reduced overall survival and was identified as an independent prognostic factor.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that EV-mediated SC migration underlies the interactions contributing to PDAC-associated NI with implications for improved outcome and therapeutic strategy.
Ferroptosis triggers mitochondrial fragmentation via Drp1 activation
Authors: Pedrera Lohans , Prieto Clemente Laura , Dahlhaus Alina , Lotfipour Nasudivar Sara , Tishina Sofya , Olmo González Daniel , Stroh Jenny , Yapici Fatma Isil , Singh Randhwaj Pratap , Grotehans Nils , Langer Thomas , García-Sáez Ana J. , von Karstedt Silvia
Published: January 2025

Constitutive mitochondrial dynamics ensure quality control and metabolic fitness of cells, and their dysregulation has been implicated in various human diseases. The large GTPase Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) is intimately involved in mediating constitutive mitochondrial fission and has been implicated in mitochondrial cell death pathways. During ferroptosis, a recently identified type of regulated necrosis driven by excessive lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial fragmentation has been observed. Yet, how this is regulated and whether it is involved in ferroptotic cell death has remained unexplored. Here, we provide evidence that Drp1 is activated upon experimental induction of ferroptosis and promotes cell death execution and mitochondrial fragmentation. Using time-lapse microscopy, we found that ferroptosis induced mitochondrial fragmentation and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, but not mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. Importantly, Drp1 accelerated ferroptotic cell death kinetics. Notably, this function was mediated by the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics, as overexpression of Mitofusin 2 phenocopied the effect of Drp1 deficiency in delaying ferroptosis cell death kinetics. Mechanistically, we found that Drp1 is phosphorylated and activated after induction of ferroptosis and that it translocates to mitochondria. Further activation at mitochondria through the phosphatase PGAM5 promoted ferroptotic cell death. Remarkably, Drp1 depletion delayed mitochondrial and plasma membrane lipid peroxidation. These data provide evidence for a functional role of Drp1 activation and mitochondrial fragmentation in the acceleration of ferroptotic cell death, with important implications for targeting mitochondrial dynamics in diseases associated with ferroptosis.
Positive feedback loop involving AMPK and CLYBL acetylation links metabolic rewiring and inflammatory responses
Authors: Wang Wenke , Wu Boquan , Hao Mingjun , Chen Sichong , Cong Ruiting , Wu Wenjie , Wang Pengbo , Zhang Qiaoyi , Jia Pengyu , Song Yuequn , Liu Bo , Qu Siyao , Pei Jian-Fei , Li Da , Zhang Naijin
Published: January 2025

Metabolic rewiring underlies effective macrophages defense to respond disease microenvironment. However, the underlying mechanisms driving metabolic rewiring to enhance macrophage effector functions remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that the metabolic reprogramming in inflammatory macrophages depended on the acetylation of CLYBL, a citramalyl-CoA lyase, at lysine 154 (K154), and blocking CLYBL-K154 acetylation restricted the release of pro-inflammatory factors. Mechanistically, we found a crucial AMPK-CLYBL acetylation positive feedback loop, triggered by toll-like receptors (TLRs), involving AMPK hypophosphorylation and CLYBL hyperacetylation. The deacetylase enzyme SIRT2 acted as the bridge between AMPK phosphorylation and CLYBL acetylation, thereby regulating macrophage polarization and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, CLYBL hypoacetylation decreased monocyte infiltration, thereby alleviating cardiac remodeling. These findings suggest that the AMPK-CLYBL acetylation positive feedback loop serves as a metabolic switch driving inflammatory response and inhibiting CLYBL-K154 acetylation may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for inflammatory response-related disorders.
IDO1 inhibits ferroptosis by regulating FTO-mediated m6A methylation and SLC7A11 mRNA stability during glioblastoma progression
Authors: Tian Qianting , Dan Guixue , Wang Xuyan , Zhu Jiamei , Chen Chaochun , Tang Dekun , Wang Ziming , Chen Dan , Lei Shan , Yang Chao , Wang Houmei , Guo Bing , Jin Bangming , Chen Tengxiang , Tang Lei
Published: January 2025

Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) has been recognized as an enzyme involved in tryptophan catabolism with immunosuppressive ability. This study determined to investigate the impact of IDO1 on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. Here, we showed that the expression of IDO1 was markedly increased in patients with glioma and associated with GBM progression. IDO1 overexpression suppressed ferroptotic cell death, reduced ROS and lipid peroxide generation in GBM cells. IDO1 expression increased the SLC7A11 mRNA stability through FTO-dependent m6A methylation. Mechanistically, IDO1 promoted the AhR expression and nuclear translocation, thus facilitating AhR recruitment at the promoter regions of FTO gene and negatively regulating its transcription. These findings demonstrate that IDO1 facilitates GBM progression by inhibiting SLC7A11-dependent ferroptosis through an IDO1-AhR-FTO axis-mediated m6A methylation mechanism.
Assessment of corneal vessels activity through the ‘Barcode sign’ of corneal OCT
Authors: Elzawahry Farida Omar , Sahay Prity , Said Dalia , Dua Harminder Singh
Published: January 2025

Background/objectives

Anterior segment optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT) is used extensively in imaging the cornea in health and disease. Our objective was to analyse and monitor corneal vascularisation (CVas) through the corresponding back-shadows visible on AS-OCT.

Subjects/Methods

AS-OCT scans were obtained from 26 consecutive patients (eyes) with CVas of different aetiologies. AS-OCT horizontal line scans showing the back shadows cast by the vessels were analysed and correlated with findings seen on slit lamp examination. Vessels were graded clinically as active, partially regressed, and regressed. The density of back shadow in the patient samples before and after treatment was analysed using Image-J software.

Results

AS-OCT demonstrated a dense back shadow in all the 26 active vessels studied. When multiple vessels were present, the barcode sign was apparent. The back shadows absent in 22 (84.62%) at the regressed (healed) stage. The intensity of the backshadow had reduced in regressing vessels 4 (15.38%). The integrated density of the backshadow on AS-OCT in the active stage (pre-treatment) and corresponding healed (post-treatment, partially regressed or ghost vessels) scans was statistically significantly different (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that AS-OCT provides additional important information in patients with CVas enabling distinction between active and regressing/regressed vessels. Semiquantitative assessment can be made by measuring the integrated density of the back shadows produced by the vessels.
Silicon-based all-solid-state batteries operating free from external pressure
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Zhang Xiuli , Liu Yan , Lan Chaofei , Han Xiang , Pei Shanpeng , Luo Linshan , Su Pengfei , Zhang Ziqi , Liu Jingjing , Gong Zhengliang , Li Cheng , Lin Guangyang , Li Cheng , Huang Wei , Wang Ming-Sheng , Chen Songyan
Published: January 2025

Silicon-based all-solid-state batteries offer high energy density and safety but face significant application challenges due to the requirement of high external pressure. In this study, a Li21Si5/Si–Li21Si5 double-layered anode is developed for all-solid-state batteries operating free from external pressure. Under the cold-pressed sintering of Li21Si5 alloys, the anode forms a top layer (Li21Si5 layer) with mixed ionic/electronic conduction and a bottom layer (Si–Li21Si5 layer) containing a three-dimensional continuous conductive network. The resultant uniform electric field at the anode|SSE interface eliminates the need for high external pressure and simultaneously enables a twofold enhancement of the lithium-ion flux at the anode interface. Such an efficient ionic/electronic transport system also facilitates the uniform release of cycling expansion stresses from the Si particles and stabilizes bulk-phase and interfacial structure of anode. Consequently, the Li21Si5/Si–Li21Si5 anode exhibited a critical current density of 10 mA cm−2 at 45 °C with a capacity of 10 mAh cm−2. And the Li21Si5/Si–Li21Si5|Li6PS5Cl|Li3InCl6|LCO cell achieve an high initial Coulombic efficiency of (97 ± 0.7)% with areal capacity of 2.8 mAh cm−2 at 0.25 mA cm−2, as well as a low expansion rate of 14.5% after 1000 cycles at 2.5 mA cm−2.
Genetic variation in IL-4 activated tissue resident macrophages determines strain-specific synergistic responses to LPS epigenetically
Authors: Zhao Mingming , Jankovic Dragana , Link Verena M. , Souza Camila Oliveira Silva , Hornick Katherine M. , Oyesola Oyebola , Belkaid Yasmine , Lack Justin , Loke Png
Published: January 2025

How macrophages in the tissue environment integrate multiple stimuli depends on the genetic background of the host, but this is still poorly understood. We investigate IL-4 activation of male C57BL/6 and BALB/c strain specific in vivo tissue-resident macrophages (TRMs) from the peritoneal cavity. C57BL/6 TRMs are more transcriptionally responsive to IL-4 stimulation, with induced genes associated with more super enhancers, induced enhancers, and topologically associating domains (TAD) boundaries. IL-4-directed epigenomic remodeling reveals C57BL/6 specific enrichment of NF-κB, IRF, and STAT motifs. Additionally, IL-4-activated C57BL/6 TRMs demonstrate an augmented synergistic response upon in vitro lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure, despite naïve BALB/c TRMs displaying a more robust transcriptional response to LPS. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of mixed bone marrow chimeras indicates that transcriptional differences and synergy are cell intrinsic within the same tissue environment. Hence, genetic variation alters IL-4-induced cell intrinsic epigenetic reprogramming resulting in strain specific synergistic responses to LPS exposure.
Mechanisms of RCD-1 pore formation and membrane bending
Authors: Ren Keli , Farrell James Daniel , Li Yueyue , Guo Xinrui , Xie Ruipei , Liu Xin , Kang Qiaozhen , Fan Qihui , Ye Fangfu , Ding Jingjin , Jiao Fang
Published: January 2025

Regulator of cell death-1 (RCD-1) governs the heteroallelic expression of RCD-1-1 and RCD-1-2, a pair of fungal gasdermin (GSDM)-like proteins, which prevent cytoplasmic mixing during allorecognition and safeguard against mycoparasitism, genome exploitation, and deleterious cytoplasmic elements (e.g., senescence plasmids) by effecting a form of cytolytic cell death. However, the underlying mechanisms by which RCD-1 acts on the cell membrane remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate that RCD-1 binds acidic lipid membranes, forms pores, and induces membrane bending. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and AlphaFold, we show that RCD-1-1 and RCD-1-2 form heterodimers that further self-assemble into ~14.5 nm-wide transmembrane pores (~10 heterodimers). Moreover, through AFM force spectroscopy and micropipette aspiration, we reveal that RCD-1 proteins bend membranes with low bending moduli. This combined action of pore formation and membrane deformation may constitute a conserved mechanism within the broader GSDM family.
Multidimensional library for the improved identification of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
Authors: Joseph Kara M. , Boatman Anna K. , Dodds James N. , Kirkwood-Donelson Kaylie I. , Ryan Jack P. , Zhang Jian , Thiessen Paul A. , Bolton Evan E. , Valdiviezo Alan , Sapozhnikova Yelena , Rusyn Ivan , Schymanski Emma L. , Baker Erin S.
Published: January 2025

As the occurrence of human diseases and conditions increase, questions continue to arise about their linkages to chemical exposure, especially for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Currently, many chemicals of concern have limited experimental information available for their use in analytical assessments. Here, we aim to increase this knowledge by providing the scientific community with multidimensional characteristics for 175 PFAS and their resulting 281 ion types. Using a platform coupling reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC), electrospray ionization (ESI) or atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), drift tube ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), and mass spectrometry (MS), the retention times, collision cross section (CCS) values, and m/z ratios were determined for all analytes and assembled into an openly available multidimensional dataset. This information will provide the scientific community with essential characteristics to expand analytical assessments of PFAS and augment machine learning training sets for discovering new PFAS.
Impact of single versus dual arterial supply on perfusion and function in finger replantation after complex hand injuries
Authors: Tamulevicius Martynas , Steinbach Malte David , Bucher Florian , Dastagir Nadjib , Obed Doha , Vogt Peter M. , Dastagir Khaled
Published: January 2025

Finger amputations following complex hand injuries (CHI) pose a significant challenge in hand surgery due to severe tissue trauma and neurovascular damage, necessitating precise arterial repair. While restoring arterial perfusion is critical, it remains unclear whether reconstructing both proper palmar digital arteries is required for optimal outcomes. This study evaluates whether restoring one or both arteries in finger replantation after complex injuries impacts perfusion and overall outcomes. In this retrospective, cross-sectional, follow-up study, we investigated patients with finger amputations following CHI admitted to the high-volume regional hand trauma center between January 2013 and December 2020. Perfusion has been assessed using FLIR thermal imaging and laser speckle contrast analysis. Functional outcomes and quality of life scores were measured using standardized questionnaires. Sensory assessments, along with pain and grip strength measurements were also conducted. A total of 31 patients were included in the study. Thermal imaging showed a significantly higher finger surface temperature in patients with two-artery reconstruction. Laser speckle contrast analysis confirmed better perfusion, though not statistically significant. Functional and quality-of-life scores were similar across groups, except for significantly improved temperature sensation in the two-artery group. In conclusion, reconstructing both arteries in finger replantation following CHI isn’t essential for good outcomes if one artery provides adequate perfusion, but dual reconstruction may improve perfusion and temperature sensation.
Predictors, patterns, and correlates of moderate-severe psychological distress among New York City College Students during Waves 2–4 of COVID-19
Authors: Heck Craig J. , Theodore Deborah A. , Autry April , Sovic Brit , Yang Cynthia , Anderson-Burnett Sarah Ann , Ray Caroline , Austin Eloise , Rotbert Joshua , Zucker Jason , Catallozzi Marina , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E. , Castor Delivette
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated mental health conditions by introducing and/or modifying stressors, particularly in university populations. We examined longitudinal patterns, time-varying predictors, and contemporaneous correlates of moderate-severe psychological distress (MS-PD) among college students. During 2020–2021, participants completed self-administered questionnaires quarterly (T1 = 562, T2 = 334, T3 = 221, and T4 = 169). MS-PD reflected Kessler-6 scores ≥ 8. At T1 (baseline), most participants were cisgender women [96% vs. 4% transgender/gender non-conforming (TGNC)]. MS-PD prevalence was over 50% at all timepoints. MS-PD predictors included low self-rated health and perceptions of local pandemic control, verbal/physical violence experience, food insecurity, cohabitation dynamics, geographic location, and loneliness. Unique MS-PD correlates encompassed drug use and TGNC identity. Trajectories comprised Persistently (40%), Highly (24% MS-PD twice/thrice), Minimally (15% MS-PD once), and Never (21%) Distressed. Persistently Distressed students had low social support and self-rated health; high food insecurity, drug use, physical/verbal violence experience, need-based financial aid, and TGNC representation; and fluctuating self-rated health amid increasing COVID-19 symptomatology. In this sample, MS-PD prevalence was high, persistent, and associated with financial, behavioral, structural, experiential, and intra- and inter-personal factors. Given its complexity, improving and preserving college students’ mental health necessitates comprehensive, multi-component activities to change adjustable stressors while attenuating the adverse effects of immutable influences.
MUC1 and glycan probing of CA19-9 captured biomarkers from cyst fluids and serum provides enhanced recognition of ovarian cancer
Authors: Ruma Shamima Afrin , Vinod Rufus , Jain Shruti , Huhtinen Kaisa , Hynninen Johanna , Leivo Janne , Pettersson Kim , Sundfeldt Karin , Gidwani Kamlesh
Published: January 2025

Glycosylation changes of circulating proteins carrying the CA19-9 antigen may offer new targets for detection methods to be explored for the diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Search for assay designs for targets initially captured by a CA19-9 antigen reactive antibody from human body fluids by probing with fluorescent nanoparticles coated with lectins or antibodies to known EOC associated proteins. CA19-9 antigens were immobilized from ascites fluids, ovarian cyst fluids or serum samples using monoclonal antibody C192 followed by probing of carrier proteins using anti-MUC16, anti-MUC1 and, anti STn antibodies and seven lectins, all separately coated on nanoparticles. Compared to reference CA19-9 and CA125 immunoassays, nanoparticle aided detection using MUC16, Ma695 and STn antibodies and lectin WGA provided, both separately and combined, improved discrimination of EOC and borderline cancers from benign samples when applied to 60 cyst fluid specimens. When applied to a panel of 44 serum samples (EOC N = 24, healthy and benign samples N = 20) two assays, CA19-9Ma695 and CA19-9MUC1, stood out with equally superior separations (p-values < 10–8) of the two groups compared to conventional CA19-9 immunoassay (p-value 0.03).Eu+3 -NP based CA19-9MUC16, CA19-9Ma695, CA19-9STn and CA19-9WGA show promise for improved EOC detection when applied to ascites & cyst fluids. When applied to circulation-derived samples, the two MUC1 based assays, CA19-9Ma695 and CA19-9Ma552 outperformed other assay constructs. Our results call for further validation in larger EOC cohorts preferentially with early stage ovarian cancers and all major histotypes against commonly occurring benign conditions.
Structural, morphological and biological assessment of magnetic hydroxyapatite with superior hyperthermia potential for orthopedic applications
Authors: Saroj Smrithi , Vijayalakshmi U.
Published: January 2025

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is an important constituent of natural bone. The properties of HA can be enhanced with the help of various ionic substitutions in the crystal lattice of HA. Iron (Fe) is a vital element present in bones and teeth. In this study, iron-doped HA was synthesized using a refluxing-based sol-gel route with varying concentrations of iron (1–9 M%). Samples were analyzed using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), UV–Vis Spectrophotometer, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The biological assessment was carried out by hemolytic assay, anti-bacterial activity and in-vitro biocompatibility. XRD data confirmed the evolution of the hexagonal HA crystal structure with the reduction in the crystallinity and the crystallite size. All the characteristic bands were confirmed using FT-IR which also further proved the existence of A-type carbonated apatite. The UV–Vis spectra confirmed the reduction in the band gap energies owing to the substitution of iron. The SEM results showed a change in the shape of the samples with increasing iron concentration. The magnetic behavior of samples also altered from diamagnetic to ferromagnetic behavior due to the doping of iron with enhanced heating efficiency. All the samples were found to be hemocompatible. The antibacterial efficacy was found to be higher for E. coli (gram-negative) bacteria compared to S. aureus (gram-positive) bacteria. Moreover, the superior cell viability of MG-63 (osteoblast-like) cells was observed in Fe-doped HA, attributed to MTT assay which revealed the enhanced cell viability of osteoblast-like cells in the Fe-doped HA. These results strongly emphasize the potential of the developed samples for bone regeneration applications.
Evaluation of transcriptomic changes after photobiomodulation in spinal cord injury
Authors: Stevens Andrew R. , Hadis Mohammed , Alldrit Hannah , Milward Michael R. , Di Pietro Valentina , Gendoo Deena M. A. , Belli Antonio , Palin William , Davies David J. , Ahmed Zubair
Published: January 2025

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant cause of lifelong disability, with no available disease-modifying treatments to promote neuroprotection and axon regeneration after injury. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a promising therapy which has proven effective at restoring lost function after SCI in pre-clinical models. However, the precise mechanism of action is yet to be determined. Here, we used an in-vivo model of SCI in adult rats that received daily PBM (660 nm, 24 mW/cm2, 1 min) and at three days post-injury, the injured spinal cord segment was harvested and subjected to whole transcriptome sequencing and subsequent pathway analysis (generally applicable gene-set enrichment (GAGE)). Pathway analysis demonstrated 1275 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after PBM treatment, of which 397 were upregulated and 878 were downregulated. Key pathways were significantly enriched, including 8.6-fold enrichment of “neuron projection morphogenesis” (adjusted p = 8.10 × 10− 14), with upregulation of Notch3, Slit1/Robo2 and Sema3g pathways. Ribosomal and oxidative phosphorylation pathways and NADH dehydrogenase were downregulated, and there was upregulation of ATP-dependent activity, cAMP and calcium signalling pathways. Key genes in apoptotic pathways were downregulated, as were S100 and cyclo-oxygenase components. Together, our study supports the favourable effects of PBM in promoting neuroregeneration and suppressing apoptosis after neurological injury. Further findings from pathway analysis suggest that downregulation of metabolism-associated pathways is a mechanism by which acute post-injury mitochondrial dysfunction may be averted by PBM therapy.
Subclinical depressive symptoms and job stress differentially impact memory in working and retired older adults
Authors: Ferguson Lorena A. , Harikumar Amritha , Leal Stephanie L.
Published: January 2025

Retirement has been associated with cognitive decline beyond normal age-related decline. However, there are many individual differences in retirement that can influence cognition. Subclinical depressive symptoms are common in late life and are associated with general memory decline and a bias towards remembering negative events (i.e., better memory for negative vs. positive or neutral stimuli), in opposition to a reported positivity bias (i.e., better memory for positive vs. negative or neutral stimuli) in aging. Furthermore, job stress is often a major contributor to retirement decisions and may impact cognition post-retirement. Here, we aimed to examine how subclinical depressive symptoms and job stress in working and retired older adults impacted emotional memory. We found that retired, but not working, older adults with greater depressive symptoms showed enhanced negative and impaired positive memory. Second, working older adults with moderately high current job stress showed better memory overall but a weaker positivity bias, while retired older adults with moderately high retrospective job stress showed worse memory overall and a stronger positivity bias. These findings suggest that subclinical depressive symptoms and job stress have differing impacts on emotional memory in late life depending on retirement status.
Residual nitrite and nitrate in processed meats and meat analogues in the United States
Authors: Sheng Siyuan , Silva Erin M. , Tarté Rodrigo , Claus James R.
Published: January 2025

Residual nitrite (NO2
−) and nitrate (NO3
−) have been widely studied in the past few decades for their function to improve processed meat quality and their impact on human health1–4. In this study we examined how the residual nitrite and nitrate (NOx
−) content of major classes of processed meats products (n = 1132) produced locally from three regions (East Coast, Midwest and West Coast) and plant protein-based meat analogues (n = 53) available at retail in the United States was influenced by their composition, processing, and geographical attributes. We also conducted time-dependent depletion studies and observed different patterns of NOx
− depletion and conversion during processing and storage and correlated them with product quality. Together, our results reveal a comprehensive prospective of NOx
− content in processed meats and meat analogues. The NO2
− in processed meats and meat analogues averaged (± standard error; minimum and maximum value in parentheses) 13.7 ± 0.62 (0.0-214.5) and 1.7 ± 0.34 (0.0–11.0), respectively, and the NO3
− in processed meats and meat analogues averaged 32.6 ± 0.90 (2.0–205.9) and 7.2 ± 0.56 (4.0-25.3) ppm, respectively.
A curative effect evaluation of intensity-modulated radiation therapy combined with periorbital triamcinolone acetonide injection in treating thyroid eye disease patients with active extraocular muscle but low CAS
Authors: Zhang Hao , He Weimin
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) combined with periorbital triamcinolone acetonide injection in treating thyroid eye disease (TED) patients with active extraocular muscle but low CAS. The retrospective observational study was conducted. A total of 156 eligible patients were selected from the TED patient database of the Ophthalmology Department of West China Hospital of Sichuan University. The patient’s relevant medical history was recorded, including gender, age of initial onset, onset eye, the interval between onset and the first visit to our hospital, extraocular muscle condition, smoking status, CAS, NOSPECS, thyroid function, symptoms and signs, and the condition of the affected extraocular muscle. We found that IMRT combined with periorbital triamcinolone acetonide injection has a good therapeutic effect on TED patients with low CAS but significant active extraocular muscles, and there is a significant improvement at 3 months after treatment. Thyroid function and CAS can affect the curative effect of IMRT. Patients with hyperthyroidism had worse effect than those with normal thyroid function. The higher the CAS, the better the effect.
All-silicon non-volatile optical memory based on photon avalanche-induced trapping
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Peng Yiwei , Cheung Stanley , Sorin Wayne V. , Hooten Sean , Huang Zhihong , Liang Di , Zhang Jiuyi , Fiorentino Marco , Beausoleil Raymond G.
Published: January 2025

Implementing on-chip non-volatile optical memories has long been an actively pursued goal, promising significant enhancements in the capability and energy efficiency of photonic integrated circuits. Here, we demonstrate an non-volatile optical memory exclusively using the most common semiconductor material, silicon. By manipulating the photon avalanche effect, we introduce a trapping effect at the silicon-silicon oxide interface, which in turn demonstrates a non-volatile reprogrammable optical memory cell with a record-high 4-bit encoding, robust retention and endurance. This silicon avalanche-induced trapping memory provides a distinctively cost-efficient and high-reliability route to realize optical data storage in standard silicon foundry processes. We demonstrate its applications in trimming in optical interconnects and in-memory computing. Our in-memory computing test case reduces energy consumption by approximately 83% compared to conventional optical approaches.
The genus Nocardia as a source of new antimicrobials
Authors: Nonthakaew Napawit , Sharkey Liam K. R. , Pidot Sacha J.
Published: January 2025

The genus Nocardia comprises over 130 species of soil-dwelling actinomycetes, many of which are opportunistic pathogens. Beyond their pathogenicity, Nocardia exhibits significant biosynthetic potential, producing an array of diverse antimicrobial secondary metabolites. This review highlights notable examples of these compounds and explores modern approaches to unlocking their untapped biosynthetic potential. As a relatively underexplored genus, Nocardia represents a promising source for new antibiotics to combat the growing resistance crisis.
Technology-supported self-triage decision making
Authors: Kopka Marvin , Wang Sonja Mei , Kunz Samira , Schmid Christine , Feufel Markus A.
Published: January 2025

Symptom-Assessment Application (SAAs) and Large Language Models (LLMs) are increasingly used by laypeople to navigate care options. Although humans ultimately make a final decision when using these systems, previous research has typically examined the performance of humans and SAAs/LLMs separately. Thus, it is unclear how decision-making unfolds in such hybrid human-technology teams and if SAAs/LLMs can improve laypeople’s decisions. To address this gap, we conducted a convergent parallel mixed-methods study with semi-structured interviews and a randomized controlled trial. Our interview data revealed that in human-technology teams, decision-making is influenced by factors before, during, and after interaction. Users tend to rely on technology for information gathering and analysis but remain responsible for information integration and the final decision. Based on these results, we developed a model for technology-assisted self-triage decision-making. Our quantitative results indicate that when using a high-performing SAA, laypeople’s decision accuracy improved from 53.2% to 64.5% (OR = 2.52, p < 001). In contrast, decision accuracy remained unchanged when using a LLM (54.8% before vs. 54.2% after usage, p = 79). These findings highlight the importance of studying SAAs/LLMs with humans in the loop, as opposed to analyzing them in isolation.
Environment scan of generative AI infrastructure for clinical and translational science
Authors: Idnay Betina , Xu Zihan , Adams William G. , Adibuzzaman Mohammad , Anderson Nicholas R. , Bahroos Neil , Bell Douglas S. , Bumgardner Cody , Campion Thomas , Castro Mario , Cimino James J. , Cohen I. Glenn , Dorr David , Elkin Peter L. , Fan Jungwei W. , Ferris Todd , Foran David J. , Hanauer David , Hogarth Mike , Huang Kun , Kalpathy-Cramer Jayashree , Kandpal Manoj , Karnik Niranjan S. , Katoch Avnish , Lai Albert M. , Lambert Christophe G. , Li Lang , Lindsell Christopher , Liu Jinze , Lu Zhiyong , Luo Yuan , McGarvey Peter , Mendonca Eneida A. , Mirhaji Parsa , Murphy Shawn , Osborne John D. , Paschalidis Ioannis C. , Harris Paul A. , Prior Fred , Shaheen Nicholas J. , Shara Nawar , Sim Ida , Tachinardi Umberto , Waitman Lemuel R. , Wright Rosalind J. , Zai Adrian H. , Zheng Kai , Lee Sandra Soo-Jin , Malin Bradley A. , Natarajan Karthik , Price II W. Nicholson , Zhang Rui , Zhang Yiye , Xu Hua , Bian Jiang , Weng Chunhua , Peng Yifan
Published: January 2025

This study reports a comprehensive environmental scan of the generative AI (GenAI) infrastructure in the national network for clinical and translational science across 36 institutions supported by the CTSA Program led by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at the United States. Key findings indicate a diverse range of institutional strategies, with most organizations in the experimental phase of GenAI deployment. The results underscore the need for a more coordinated approach to GenAI governance, emphasizing collaboration among senior leaders, clinicians, information technology staff, and researchers. Our analysis reveals that 53% of institutions identified data security as a primary concern, followed by lack of clinician trust (50%) and AI bias (44%), which must be addressed to ensure the ethical and effective implementation of GenAI technologies.
Thiolate-CLPG (chemiluminescent protecting groups) based on coumaranone thiolcarbamates
Authors: Lippold Tim , Kosolapova Julia , Flosbach Niko T. , Herzhoff Robert , Griesbeck Axel G. , Wickleder Mathias
Published: January 2025

Coumaranone thiolcarbamates release thiolates with concomitant and long-lasting blue-green chemiluminescence and are excellent examples of chemiluminescent protecting groups (CLPG) that can be detected until complete conversion.
First-principles study on the structure and stability of defect complexes and clusters in nitrogen-doped Czochralski silicon
Authors: He Zirui , Lu Xiang , Hu Haojun , Shen Siqing , Liang Yongli , Gao Shang-Peng , Hu Hao , Chen Meng
Published: January 2025

The defect behaviour in N-doped CZ-Si is studied using DFT computations. Stabilities of various defect complexes composed of N, V, and O are analysed, and the effects of N-doping on clusters (including voids and O-precipitates) are elucidated.
A comprehensive solute–medium interaction model for anisotropic NMR data prediction
Authors: Liu Yizhou
Published: January 2025

A solute–medium interaction model incorporating steric, dispersion, and electrostatic interactions in the presence of a solvent more accurately predicts anisotropic NMR data.
Tetra-coordinated organoboron complexes with triaminoguanidine-salicylidene based ligands: aggregation induced enhanced emission and mechanoresponsive features
Authors: Tharmalingam Balamurugan , Kishore Kumar Rajendran , Anitha Ottoor , Kaminsky Werner , Malecki Jan Grzegorz , Murugesapandian Balasubramanian
Published: January 2025

We have developed five unique organoboron compounds supported by tis (salicylidene)triaminoguanidine-based ligands and studied their aggregation induced enhanced emission and mechano responsiveness.
An anionic metal–organic framework and its r-graphene oxide composite for selective adsorption and separation of methyl blue from aqueous solution
Authors: Hazarika Uddit Narayan , Pegu Anisha , Devi Shrutipriya , Konwer Surajit , Singh Moirangthem Kameshwor , Gogoi Simi , Pegu Mintumoni , Khakhlary Prithiviraj
Published: January 2025

A mono-metallic MOF (Mn-FM) and its r-GO composite (rGO@Mn-FM) were synthesized with a simple and cost-effective method for selective adsorption and separation of anionic dyes.
Cationic and neutral ruthenium(ii) complexes bearing silyl-phosphines: synthesis, structures, and catalytic studies in selective hydroboration of carbonyl compounds
Authors: Sahoo Amiya Kumar , Dash Rageshree , Agrawalla Suraj Kumar , Purohit Chandra Shekhar , Doddi Adinarayana
Published: January 2025

The reactivity of ortho-silylated phosphines featuring SiMe3 and SiR2H (R = Me, Ph) units has been studied towards ruthenium(ii) metal precursors.
Pre-constructing a mortice-tenon joint based-layer to achieve an enhanced SEI on Li metal anode
Authors: Wang Kun , Wang Chutao , Liu Sheng , Du Congcong , Zheng Qingyi , Cui Jiaqing , Yang Xinxin , Tang Yuxin , Yuan Ruming , Zheng Mingsen , Fan Jingmin , Dong Quanfeng
Published: January 2025

Constructing an enhanced SEI based on the mortise and tenon joints using chemical and electrochemical reactions.
Applications, performance enhancement strategies and prospects of NixPy in electrocatalysis
Authors: Wang Chenjing , Yang Yuquan , Yuan Yanru , Lv Qian , Zhou Li , Wang Lulu , Zheng Xiaoyue , Liu Jiajia , Wu Hongjing , Pang Dawei , Zheng Jinlong
Published: January 2025

The applications and performance enhancement strategies of NixPy with different crystal phases in the field of electrocatalysis are discussed.
A multistimuli responsive and self-healing Zn(ii)–inosine supramolecular metal–organic gel: phase selective gelation and application as a light-responsive Schottky barrier diode
Authors: Singh Surbhi , Sharma Atul Kumar , Rohilla Kunal , Verma Nisha , Sharma Bhagwati
Published: January 2025

A multifunctional metallogel that shows self-healing, stimuli-responsiveness, and phase-selective gelation has been used for the fabrication of a photosensitive thin film device based on a Schottky diode interface between a metal and a semiconductor.
Enhancing cycling stability of Li-rich Mn-based cathode materials via cyano functional additives
Authors: Zhou Dongwei , Yang Zhanlin , Wang Shihao , Gao Guiyang , Zhu Jie , Zhang Chengkun , Li Saichao , Sa Baisheng , Lin Jie , Peng Dong-Liang , Xie Qingshui
Published: January 2025

Through purifying electrolyte, constructing TM–CN-containing complexes, and forming low-impedance CEI on the cathode surface, the trimethylsilyl cyanide additive enhances the electrochemical performance of high-voltage Li-rich cathodes.
Enhancing surface/interface activity and wettability via trimeric surfactant-containing mixtures
Authors: Zhang Chao , Jiang Jianlin , Zhou Linbi , Zhou Lili , Qin Bing , Qiao Fulin
Published: January 2025

This study presents a pioneering investigation into how the topological structures of anionic–nonionic surfactants influence their interactions with trimeric surfactants, providing fresh insights into surfactant behavior.
Temperature and light dual-responsive hydrogels for anti-inflammation and wound repair monitoring
Authors: Jiang Ji , Tian Yuan , Wu Xiaoyang , Zeng Mingze , Wu Chengheng , Wei Dan , Luo Hongrong , Sun Jing , Ding Jie , Fan Hongsong
Published: January 2025

A temperature and light dual-responsive hydrogel dressing was reported, this dual-functional platform not only provides real-time diagnostic capabilities but also offers therapeutic interventions to manage wound infections and promote wound healing.
Deoxyribonucleic acid brick crystals-based memristor as an artificial synapse for neuromorphic computing
Authors: Wang Zhongrong , Liu Xinran , Li Jiahang , Li Xiaohan , Shi Haowan , Wang Yichao , Guan Ziyang , Zhang Mao , Zhao Jianhui , Zhou Zhenyu , Lou Jianzhong , Yan Xiaobing
Published: January 2025

This work presents a high-performance DNA brick crystals-based memristor to improve the resistive switching characteristics of double stranded DNA-based memristors.
Negative differential transconductance effects on anomalous n-type characteristics in p-type WSe2 semiconductor field effect transistors
Authors: He Shaodan , Cheng Zhaofang , Duan Shijun , Zhang Xudong , Chen Lina , Lou Qi , Wu Zipeng , Zhang Shimin , Zhang Shengli , Xia Minggang
Published: January 2025

The NDT effect with a high peak current in WSe2 FET is demonstrated during the sweep from positive to negative voltage.
C1-substituted bipolar spiro host for high-performance organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Yang Yue-Jian , Zheng Qi , Zuo Peng , Yuan Hai-Tian , Liu Rui-Hong , Feng Zi-Qi , Zhou Dong-Ying , Jiang Zuo-Quan , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: January 2025

High-performance organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are essential for both academic research and industrial applications.
Interfacial creation of positively charged sites in LaPO4/Fe3(PO4)2 heterojunctions for high-current-density oxygen evolution
Authors: Liu Sitong , Zhang Yudi , Sun Wen , Wang Junqiang , Zhang Dengsong , Huo Juntao , Li Guowei
Published: January 2025

The positively charged sites resulting from electronic redistribution in the metal phosphate heterostructures lead to reduced energy barriers, demonstrating an effective strategy for OER catalysts with low overpotentials and remarkable stability.
Emotion‐aware psychological first aid: Integrating BERT‐based emotional distress detection with Psychological First Aid‐Generative Pre‐Trained Transformer chatbot for mental health support
Authors: Taiwo Olajumoke , Al‐Bander Baidaa
Published: January 2025

Mental health disorders have a global prevalence of 25%, according to the WHO, and this is exacerbated by factors such as stigma, geographical location, and a worldwide shortage of practitioners. Mental health chatbots have been developed to address these barriers, but these systems lack key features such as emotion recognition, personalisation, multilingual support, and ethical appropriateness. This paper introduces an innovative mental health support system that integrates BERT‐based emotional distress detection with a psychological first aid (PFA)‐generative pre‐trained transformer (PFA‐GPT) model, providing an emotion‐aware PFA chatbot. The methodology leverages deep learning models, utilising bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT) for emotional distress detection and fine‐tuning GPT‐3.5 on therapy transcripts for PFA chatbot development. The findings demonstrate BERT's superior accuracy (93%) for emotional distress detection compared to bidirectional long short‐term memory. The multilingual PFA chatbot developed using the PFA‐GPT model demonstrated superior BERT scores (exceeding 83%) and proficiently provided ethical PFA. A proof of concept has been developed to illustrate the integration of the emotional distress detection model with the novel generative conversational agent for PFA. This integrated approach holds significant potential in overcoming existing barriers to mental health support and has the potential to transform mental health support, offering timely and accessible care through AI‐powered psychological interventions.
An integrative survey on Indian sign language recognition and translation
Authors: Damdoo Rina , Kumar Praveen
Published: January 2025

Hard of hearing (HoH) people commonly use sign languages (SLs) to communicate. They face major impediments in communicating with hearing individuals, mostly because hearing people are unaware of SLs. Therefore, it is important to promote tools that enable communication between users of sign language and users of spoken languages. The study of sign language recognition and translation (SLRT) is a step forward in this direction, as it tries to create a spoken‐language translation of a sign‐language video or vice versa. This study aims to survey the Indian sign language (ISL) interpretation literature and gives pertinent information about ISL recognition and translation (ISLRT). It provides an overview of recent advances in ISLRT, including the use of machine learning based, deep learning based, and gesture‐based techniques. This work also summarizes the development of ISL datasets and dictionaries. It highlights the gaps in the literature and provides recommendations for future research opportunities for ISLRT development.