bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resting-state alterations in emotion salience and default-mode network connectivity in atypical trajectories of psychotic-like experiences
Authors: Assaf Roxane , Ouellet Julien , Bourque Josiane , Stip Emmanuel , Leyton Marco , Conrod Patricia , Potvin Stéphane
Published: September 2024

Social cognition is commonly altered in people with psychosis. Two main brain networks have been implicated: the default-mode network (DMN), which is associated with socio-cognitive processing, and the salience network (SN) associated with socio-affective processing. Disturbances to the resting-state functional connectivity of these networks have been identified in schizophrenia and high-risk individuals, but there have been no studies in adolescents displaying distinct trajectories of subclinical psychotic-like experiences (PLEs). To address this, the present study measured SN and DMN resting-state connectivity in a unique longitudinally followed sample of youth (n = 92) presenting with typical and atypical 4-year PLE trajectories. Compared to the typically developing low PLE control group, the atypical increasing PLE trajectory displayed reduced connectivity between the SN and DMN, increased connectivity between left and right insula, and widespread dysconnectivity from the insula and amygdala. These alterations are similar to those reported in schizophrenia and clinical high-risk samples, suggesting that early detection may be useful for mapping the developmental trajectories of psychotic disorders.
Responding to epidemics: the case of the Nguyễn Dynasty, focusing on the period 1802–1883
Authors: Nguyễn Thị Oanh , Trần Thị Minh
Published: September 2024

In the past, Vietnam was impacted by numerous epidemics, particularly during the Nguyễn Dynasty from 1802 to 1883. Based on data from the Đại Nam Thực Lục (1961) (The Veritable Records of the Great South), this article investigates the frequency and nature of these epidemics, identifies the types of common diseases at that time, and explores the underlying causes of these outbreaks. The study further examines the Nguyễn Dynasty's strategies for managing these health crises. During these outbreaks, the dynasty faced significant challenges, with frequent epidemics leading to high death rates, widespread social disruption, and economic decline. The dynasty's primary preventive measures, heavily reliant on spiritual practices like prayer, highlight the limited medical understanding at the time and the constraints of its socio-political framework. However, there was a progressive shift towards the incorporation of Western medical innovations, particularly in the vaccine approach to treat diseases like smallpox. This transition not only marked a critical evolution in the local healthcare approach but also set the stage for more systematic medical advancements in Vietnam during the colonial period (1884–1945).
The political economy of China's Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Caskey Gregory W.
Published: September 2024

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the Chinese government's effort to promote global development and interconnectivity through a vast network of transportation, energy, and telecommunications infrastructure projects. Involving over 140 countries, Beijing has clearly stated aims and methods for the Belt and Road, including that BRI contributes to economic development in participant countries and that all projects be carried out according to ‘five cooperation priorities’ representing win–win partnerships between China and BRI-participant countries. Taking China's stated aims as given, this paper argues that Beijing faces information and institutional constraints that prevent the successful planning, implementation, and operation of BRI. By employing ill-suited means to achieve their stated ends, Beijing undermines their own ability to carry out BRI successfully. This paper explores the mechanisms at work on the ground within BRI, utilizing case studies of BRI's flagship projects and BRI contract data as evidence for the theory.
Impact of Warehouse Expansion on Ambient PM2.5 and Elemental Carbon Levels in Southern California's Disadvantaged Communities: A Two‐Decade Analysis
Authors: Yang Binyu , Zhu Qingyang , Wang Wenhao , Zhu Qiao , Zhang Danlu , Jin Zhihao , Prasad Prachi , Sowlat Mohammad , Pakbin Payam , Ahangar Faraz , Hasheminassab Sina , Liu Yang
Published: September 2024

Over the past two decades, the surge in warehouse construction near seaports and in economically lower‐cost land areas has intensified product transportation and e‐commerce activities, particularly affecting air quality and health in nearby socially disadvantaged communities. This study, spanning from 2000 to 2019 in Southern California, investigated the relationship between ambient concentrations of PM2.5 and elemental carbon (EC) and the proliferation of warehouses. Utilizing satellite‐driven estimates of annual mean ambient pollution levels at the ZIP code level and linear mixed effect models, positive associations were found between warehouse characteristics such as rentable building area (RBA), number of loading docks (LD), and parking spaces (PS), and increases in PM2.5 and EC concentrations. After adjusting for demographic covariates, an Interquartile Range increase of the RBA, LD, and PS were associated with a 0.16 μg/m³ (95% CI = [0.13, 0.19], p < 0.001), 0.10 μg/m³ (95% CI = [0.08, 0.12], p < 0.001), and 0.21 μg/m³ (95% CI = [0.18, 0.24], p < 0.001) increase in PM2.5, respectively. For EC concentrations, an IQR increase of RBA, LD, and PS were each associated with a 0.021 μg/m³ (95% CI = [0.019, 0.024], p < 0.001), 0.014 μg/m³ (95% CI = [0.012, 0.015], p < 0.001), and 0.021 μg/m³ (95% CI = [0.019, 0.024], p < 0.001) increase. The study also highlighted that disadvantaged populations, including racial/ethnic minorities, individuals with lower education levels, and lower‐income earners, were disproportionately affected by higher pollution levels.
Spatial Distribution in Surface Aerosol Light Absorption Across India
Authors: Kapoor Taveen S. , Navinya Chimurkar , Apte Adishree , Shetty Nishit J. , Lokhande Pradnya , Singh Sujit , Murthy B. M. Sadashiva , Deswal Meena , Laura Jitender S. , Muthalagu Akila , Qureshi Asif , Bhardwaj Ankur , Sunder Raman Ramya , Lian Yang , Pandithurai G. , Chaudhary Pooja , Sinha Baerbel , Rabha Shahadev , Saikia Binoy K. , Najar Tanveer Ahmad , Jehangir Arshid , Mukherjee Sauryadeep , Chatterjee Abhijit , Phuleria Harish C. , Chakrabarty Rajan K. , Venkataraman Chandra
Published: September 2024

Light‐absorbing carbonaceous aerosols that dominate atmospheric aerosol warming over India remain poorly characterized. Here, we delve into UV‐visible‐IR spectral aerosol absorption properties at nine PAN‐India COALESCE network sites (Venkataraman et al., 2020, https://doi.org/10.1175/bams‐d‐19‐0030.1). Absorption properties were estimated from aerosol‐laden polytetrafluoroethylene filters using a well‐constrained technique incorporating filter‐to‐particle correction factors. The measurements revealed spatiotemporal heterogeneity in spectral intrinsic and extrinsic absorption properties. Absorption analysis at near‐UV wavelengths from carbonaceous aerosols at these regional sites revealed large near‐ultraviolet brown carbon absorption contributions from 21% to 68%—emphasizing the need to include these particles in climate models. Further, satellite‐retrieved column‐integrated absorption was dominated by surface absorption, which opens possibilities of using satellite measurements to model surface‐layer optical properties (limited to specific sites) at a higher spatial resolution. Both the satellite‐modeled and direct in‐situ absorption measurements can aid in validating and constraining climate modeling efforts that suffer from absorption underestimations and high uncertainties in radiative forcing estimates.
A Slowdown in Translation Speed of Western North Pacific Tropical Cyclones Undergoing Rapid Intensification
Authors: Song Jinjie , Klotzbach Philip J. , Dai Yifei , Duan Yihong
Published: September 2024

This study examines long‐term trends in western North Pacific (WNP) tropical cyclones (TCs) experiencing rapid intensification (RI) from 1971 to 2022. Although there is only a weak slowdown for all intensifying WNP TCs, the average translation speed for RI TCs has significantly decelerated over the RI main development region (7.5°–25°N, 115°–160°E). This slowdown is primarily due to increasing RI probabilities for slower‐moving TCs. By contrast, the RI probability of faster‐moving TCs remains virtually unchanged. These differences in RI trend probabilities between slow‐moving and fast‐moving TCs are primarily linked to a deepening of the WNP mixed layer. TC‐induced sea surface temperature cooling tends to weaken when the mixed layer is deep. During the intensification stage, the deeper mixed layer is more critical for slower‐moving TCs than for faster‐moving TCs. Our findings suggest that RI probabilities for slow‐moving WNP TCs may continue to increase in a future warming climate.
Phase-change VO2-based thermochromic smart windows
Authors: Jiang Cancheng , He Lanyue , Xuan Qingdong , Liao Yuan , Dai Jian-Guo , Lei Dangyuan
Published: September 2024

Thermochromic coatings hold promise in reducing building energy consumption by dynamically regulating the heat gain of windows, which are often regarded as less energy-efficient components, across different seasons. Vanadium dioxide (VO2) stands out as a versatile thermochromic material for smart windows owing to its reversible metal-to-insulator transition (MIT) alongside correlated structural and optical properties. In this review, we delve into recent advancements in the phase-change VO2-based thermochromic coatings for smart windows, spanning from the macroscopic crystal level to the microscopic structural level (including elemental doping and micro/nano-engineering), as well as advances in controllable fabrication. It is notable that hybridizing functional elements/materials (e.g., W, Mo/SiO2, TiN) with VO2 in delicate structural designs (e.g., core-shell, optical cavity) brings new degrees of freedom for controlling the thermochromic properties, including the MIT temperature, luminous transmittance, solar-energy modulation ability and building-relevant multi-functionality. Additionally, we provide an overview of alternative chromogenic materials that could potentially complement or surpass the intrinsic limitations of VO2. By examining the landscape of emerging materials, we aim to broaden the scope of possibilities for smart window technologies. We also offer insights into the current challenges and prospects of VO2-based thermochromic smart windows, presenting a roadmap for advancing this field towards enhanced energy efficiency and sustainable building design. In summary, this review innovatively categorizes doping strategies and corresponding effects of VO2, underscores their crucial NIR-energy modulation ability for smart windows, pioneers a theoretical analysis of inverse core-shell structures, prioritizes practical engineering strategies for solar modulation in VO2 films, and summarizes complementary chromogenic materials, thus ultimately advancing VO2-based smart window technologies with a fresh perspective.
Role of serotonin neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus in heroin self-administration and punishment
Authors: Li Chen , McCloskey Nicholas S. , Inan Saadet , Kirby Lynn G.
Published: September 2024

One hallmark of substance use disorder is continued drug use despite negative consequences. When drug-taking behavior is punished with aversive stimuli, i.e. footshock, rats can also be categorized into punishment-resistant or compulsive vs. punishment-sensitive or non-compulsive phenotypes. The serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) system modulates responses to both reward and punishment. The goal of the current study was to examine punishment phenotypes in heroin self-administration and to determine the role of dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) 5-HT neurons in both basal and punished heroin self-administration. First, rats were exposed to punished heroin self-administration and neuronal excitability of DRN 5-HT neurons was compared between punishment-resistant and punishment-sensitive phenotypes using ex vivo electrophysiology. Second, DRN 5-HT neuronal activity was manipulated in vivo during basal and punished heroin self-administration using chemogenetic tools in a Tph2-iCre rat line. While rats separated into punishment-resistant and punishment-sensitive phenotypes for punished heroin self-administration, DRN 5-HT neuronal excitability did not differ between the phenotypes. While chemogenetic inhibition of DRN 5-HT neurons was without effect, chemogenetic activation of DRN 5-HT neurons increased both basal and punished heroin self-administration selectively in punishment-resistant animals. Additionally, the responsiveness to chemogenetic activation of DRN 5-HT neurons in basal self-administration and motivation for heroin in progressive ratio each predicted resistance to punishment. Therefore, our data support the role for the DRN 5-HT system in compulsive heroin self-administration.
Kindlin-2 regulates the oncogenic activities of integrins and TGF-β in triple-negative breast cancer progression and metastasis
Authors: Yousafzai Neelum Aziz , El Khalki Lamyae , Wang Wei , Szpendyk Justin , Sossey-Alaoui Khalid
Published: September 2024

Kindlin-2, an adapter protein, is dysregulated in various human cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), where it drives tumor progression and metastasis by influencing several cancer hallmarks. One well-established role of Kindlin-2 involves the regulation of integrin signaling, achieved by directly binding to the cytoplasmic tail of the integrin β subunit. In this study, we present novel insights into Kindlin-2’s involvement in stabilizing the β1-Integrin:TGF-β type 1 receptor (TβRI) complexes, acting as a physical bridge that links β1-Integrin to TβRI. Loss of Kindlin-2 results in the degradation of this protein complex, leading to the inhibition of downstream oncogenic pathways. We used a diverse range of in vitro assays, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, cell migration, 3D-tumorsphere formation and invasion, solid binding, co-immunoprecipitation, cell adhesion and spreading assays, as well as western blot and flow cytometry analyses, utilizing MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 TNBC cell lines. Additionally, preclinical in vivo mouse models of TNBC tumor progression and metastasis were employed to substantiate our findings. Our studies established the direct interaction between Kindlin-2 and β1-Integrin and between Kindlin-2 and TβRI. Disruption of these interactions, via CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of Kindlin-2, led to the degradation of β1-Integrin and TβRI, resulting in the inhibition of oncogenic pathways downstream of both proteins, subsequently hindering tumor growth and metastasis. Treatment of Kindlin-2-deficient cells with the proteasome inhibitor MG-132 restored the expression of both β1-Integrin and TβRI. Furthermore, the rescue of Kindlin-2 expression reinstated their oncogenic activities in vitro and in vivo, while Kindlin-2 lacking domains involved in the interaction of Kindlin-2 with β1-Integrin or TβRI did not. This study identifies a novel function of Kindlin-2 in stabilizing the β1-Integrin:TβRI complexes and regulating their downstream oncogenic signaling. The translational implications of these findings are substantial, potentially unveiling new therapeutically targeted pathways crucial for the treatment of TNBC tumors.
Prediction of the Cu oxidation state from EELS and XAS spectra using supervised machine learning
Authors: Gleason Samuel P. , Lu Deyu , Ciston Jim
Published: September 2024

Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) provide detailed information about bonding, distributions and locations of atoms, and their coordination numbers and oxidation states. However, analysis of XAS/EELS data often relies on matching an unknown experimental sample to a series of simulated or experimental standard samples. This limits analysis throughput and the ability to extract quantitative information from a sample. In this work, we have trained a random forest model capable of predicting the oxidation state of copper based on its L-edge spectrum. Our model attains an R2 score of 0.85 and a root mean square error of 0.24 on simulated data. It has also successfully predicted experimental L-edge EELS spectra taken in this work and XAS spectra extracted from the literature. We further demonstrate the utility of this model by predicting simulated and experimental spectra of mixed valence samples generated by this work. This model can be integrated into a real-time EELS/XAS analysis pipeline on mixtures of copper-containing materials of unknown composition and oxidation state. By expanding the training data, this methodology can be extended to data-driven spectral analysis of a broad range of materials.
Multidrug-resistant high-risk clonal Escherichia coli lineages occur along an antibiotic residue gradient in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Lübcke Phillip , Heiden Stefan E. , Homeier-Bachmann Timo , Bohnert Jürgen A. , Schulze Christian , Eger Elias , Schwabe Michael , Guenther Sebastian , Schaufler Katharina
Published: September 2024

The global spread of multidrug-resistantEscherichia colithreatens human, animal, and environmental health. Despite the recognition of water bodies as potential reservoirs, research on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antibiotic residues in the Baltic Sea is limited. In this study, we examined the presence of ESBL-producingE. coliin surface water in northeastern Germany. We then conducted phenotypic and genotypic analyses of the strains, which encompassed AMR and heavy metal/metalloid tolerance, biofilm formation, and detailed plasmid examination. In addition, we used solid-phase extraction with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to quantify antibiotic residues. Our analysis identified 30 ESBL-producingE. coliisolates, some of which were associated with clinically relevant high-risk clonal lineages. We detected antibiotic residues in the environmental samples, but the antibiotic concentrations were significantly lower compared to wastewater samples. These results suggest that the Baltic Sea surface water could serve as a reservoir for ESBL-producingE. coliand clinically relevant antibiotics.
Earth-abundant Li-ion cathode materials with nanoengineered microstructures
Authors: Hau Han-Ming , Mishra Tara , Ophus Colin , Huang Tzu-Yang , Bustilo Karen , Sun Yingzhi , Yang Xiaochen , Holstun Tucker , Zhao Xinye , Wang Shilong , Ha Yang , Lee Gi-Hyeok , Song Chengyu , Turner John , Bai Jianming , Ma Lu , Chen Ke , Wang Feng , Yang Wanli , McCloskey Bryan D. , Cai Zijian , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: September 2024

Manganese-based materials have tremendous potential to become the next-generation lithium-ion cathode as they are Earth abundant, low cost and stable. Here we show how the mobility of manganese cations can be used to obtain a unique nanosized microstructure in large-particle-sized cathode materials with enhanced electrochemical properties. By combining atomic-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy, four-dimensional scanning electron nanodiffraction and in situ X-ray diffraction, we show that when a partially delithiated, high-manganese-content, disordered rocksalt cathode is slightly heated, it forms a nanomosaic of partially ordered spinel domains of 3–7 nm in size, which impinge on each other at antiphase boundaries. The short coherence length of these domains removes the detrimental two-phase lithiation reaction present near 3 V in a regular spinel and turns it into a solid solution. This nanodomain structure enables good rate performance and delivers 200 mAh g−1 discharge capacity in a (partially) disordered material with an average primary particle size of ∼5 µm. The work not only expands the synthesis strategies available for developing high-performance Earth-abundant manganese-based cathodes but also offers structural insights into the ability to nanoengineer spinel-like phases.
Inhibiting Ca2+ channels in Alzheimer’s disease model mice relaxes pericytes, improves cerebral blood flow and reduces immune cell stalling and hypoxia
Authors: Korte Nils , Barkaway Anna , Wells Jack , Freitas Felipe , Sethi Huma , Andrews Stephen P. , Skidmore John , Stevens Beth , Attwell David
Published: September 2024

Early in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), pericytes constrict capillaries, increasing their hydraulic resistance and trapping of immune cells and, thus, decreasing cerebral blood flow (CBF). Therapeutic approaches to attenuate pericyte-mediated constriction in AD are lacking. Here, using in vivo two-photon imaging with laser Doppler and speckle flowmetry and magnetic resonance imaging, we show that Ca2+ entry via L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaVs) controls the contractile tone of pericytes. In AD model mice, we identifed pericytes throughout the capillary bed as key drivers of an immune reactive oxygen species (ROS)-evoked and pericyte intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i)-mediated decrease in microvascular flow. Blocking CaVs with nimodipine early in disease progression improved CBF, reduced leukocyte stalling at pericyte somata and attenuated brain hypoxia. Amyloid β (Aβ)-evoked pericyte contraction in human cortical tissue was also greatly reduced by CaV block. Lowering pericyte [Ca2+]i early in AD may, thus, offer a therapeutic strategy to enhance brain energy supply and possibly cognitive function in AD.
A reduced-scale canyon street to study tree climate benefits: summer 2020 data with well-watered apple trees
Authors: Herpin Sophie , Mballo Souleymane , Manteau Melvin , Lemesle Dominique , Boukouya Agathe , Dubuc Bénédicte , Ledroit Lydie , Cannavo Patrice , Demotes-Mainard Sabine , Bournet Pierre-Emmanuel
Published: September 2024

An outdoor reduced-scale canyon street was set-up in Angers, France, to study the impact of well-watered trees on urban microclimate and human comfort, with an integrated approach of the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum. Data were acquired during 26 days in summer 2020. The street is oriented north-south, with an aspect ratio of 1. It is organized in three zones: two zones with a central alignment of 5 ornamental apple trees, and one zone without trees. The water inputs are controlled through a drip-irrigation system. Each zone is instrumented to characterise the local microclimate and energy fluxes, the soil water status, and tree leaf temperature. To allow a better understanding of the physical mechanisms at stake in tree services, tree transpiration as well as crown light interception are also quantified, and the trees are characterised in terms of leaf area and crown dimensions. The data can benefit to researchers in urban meteorology and environmental physics. It can also provide reference data to run and evaluate microclimate models, especially regarding plant-atmosphere interactions.
Effect of body mass index on post-treatment oral function in patients with oral cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Shimamura Yukiho , Matsuda Yuhei , Takeda Mayu , Morioka Reon , Kotani Tatsuhito , Kanno Takahiro
Published: September 2024

This single-center cross-sectional study used sequential sampling to examine the influence of body mass index (BMI) on oral function after oral cancer treatment. Patients who completed primary oral cancer treatment between September 2019 and March 2023 (102 patients, 74 male [72.5%] and 28 female [27.5%]; mean age, 69.6 years) were analyzed. Patient background data were collected from electronic medical records. Post-treatment oral function measurements were conducted on all patients using six assessment tools. Statistical analysis was conducted using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, one-way analysis of variance, the Jonckheere–Terpstra test, and multiple linear regression. Pre-treatment BMI showed a statistically significant relationship with postoperative oral function, particularly tongue pressure (P = 0.01). While the mean values of the groups showed no significant differences, the Jonckheere–Terpstra test revealed a statistically significant trend toward a stepwise increase in tongue pressure for each BMI group (P = 0.03). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a statistically significant correlation between tongue pressure and pre-treatment BMI (P < 0.05). Pre-treatment BMI was significantly associated with tongue pressure. Since BMI is a variable factor that can be controlled by nutritional therapy even before treatment, nutritional intervention, weight control, and treatment strategies including reconstructive interventions to maintain tongue pressure may be important in oral cancer treatment.
“Eco-friendly HPLC method for analysis of dipyrone and hyoscine in different matrices with biomonitoring”
Authors: El kalla Reem A. , Ghoniem Nermine S. , Zaazaa Hala E. , Gendy Ahmed Emad El , Sedik Ghada A.
Published: September 2024

A selective, precise, and accurate reversed HPLC method has been developed and validated for simultaneous separation and determination of two veterinary drugs, dipyrone and hyoscine, in their combined dosage form in the presence of their official impurities, namely 4-aminoantipyrine and tropic acid, in addition to the formulated preservative: phenol. The linearity range was found to be (1.00–35.00 µg/mL) for dipyrone and (2.50–50.00 µg/mL) for hyoscine. It exhibited a satisfactory linearity regression R (0.9999) for both drugs with LOD 0.22 µg/mL and 0.72 µg/mL and LOQ 0.65 µg/mL and 2.19 µg/mL for dipyrone and hyoscine, respectively. Additionally, the two cited drugs were also determined in the presence of dipyrone active metabolite 4-aminoantipyrine using diclofenac as an internal standard in bovine urine. The linearity range was found to be (15–75 µg/mL) for dipyrone, (2.5–60 µg/mL) for hyoscine, and (2.5–60 µg/mL) for 4-aminoantipyrine with linearity regression R (0.9999–0.9998). The LLOQ (15, 2.5, 2.5 µg/mL), LQC (45, 7.5, 7.5 µg/mL), MQC (55, 25, 25 µg/mL), and HQC (60, 50 50 µg/mL) were determined for dipyrone, hyoscine and 4-aminoantipyrine, respectively. UV detection was carried out at 220 nm. The method was validated according to the ICH guidelines, as well as according to FDA guidelines for determining both drugs in bioanalytical matrices and both proved accuracy and precision. A statistical comparison was made between the results obtained and those obtained by the reported method, showing no significant difference in accuracy and precision at p = 0.05. The suggested method was proved eco-friendly through a greenness assessment using two different tools (The analytical eco-scale scored 83, and the AGREE-Analytical Greenness Metric approach scored 0.83). The suggested method can be used in the routine work of quality control labs, screening for drug abuse, and ensuring clean sport for horse racing.
Utilization of industrial waste materials for the preparation of wollastonite by temperature-induced forming technique
Authors: Abo-Almaged H. H. , Ngida Rehab E. A. , Ajiba N. A. , Sadek H. E. H. , Khattab R. M.
Published: September 2024

The study focuses on synthesizing wollastonite using bypass and silica fume waste materials as starting materials. The novelty of this work is the utilization of temperature-induced forming technique for the synthesis of wollastonite. Bypass and silica fume are mixed with various CaO/SiO2 ratios and then cast and fired at temperatures ranging from 900 to 1200 °C. Rheological properties and zeta potential are characterized for the slurries to optimize the dispersant percentage. The fired samples' phase composition, structure properties, apparent porosity, linear shrinkage, and compressive strength are characterized. Results show that the sample with a CaO: SiO2 ratio of 1:1.45 is the optimum composition for forming mainly pure β-wollastonite at 1100 °C, which changed into pseudo-wollastonite at about 1150 °C. The best physical and mechanical properties are obtained at 1170 °C, including apparent porosity of 8%, bulk density of 2.2 g/cm3, linear shrinkage of 13%, and compressive strength of 40 MPa, which widens its ceramic applications.
Hippocampal and limbic microstructure changes associated with stress across the lifespan: a UK biobank study
Authors: McManus Elizabeth , Haroon Hamied , Duncan Niall W. , Elliott Rebecca , Muhlert Nils
Published: September 2024

Experiencing highly stressful events can have detrimental and lasting effects on brain morphology. The current study explores the effects of stress during childhood and adulthood on grey matter macro- and microstructure using a sub-sample of 720 participants from the UK Biobank with very high or very low childhood and adulthood stress scores. We used T1-weighted and diffusion MRI data to assess grey matter macro- and microstructure within bilateral hippocampus, amygdala and thalamus. Findings showed that childhood stress is associated with changes in microstructural measures bilaterally within the hippocampus and amygdala. No effects of adulthood stress on brain microstructure were found. No interaction effects between sex and stress (either childhood or adulthood) were observed for any brain imaging measure. Analysis of sub-segments of the hippocampus showed that childhood stress predominantly impacted the bilateral heads of the hippocampus. Overall, these findings suggest that highly stressful experiences during childhood, but not adulthood, have lasting impact on brain microstructure. The effects of these experiences in childhood appear to persist regardless of experiences of high or low stress in adulthood.
Text classification models for assessing the completeness of randomized controlled trial publications based on CONSORT reporting guidelines
Authors: Jiang Lan , Lan Mengfei , Menke Joe D. , Vorland Colby J. , Kilicoglu Halil
Published: September 2024

Complete and transparent reporting of randomized controlled trial publications (RCTs) is essential for assessing their credibility. We aimed to develop text classification models for determining whether RCT publications report CONSORT checklist items. Using a corpus annotated with 37 fine-grained CONSORT items, we trained sentence classification models (PubMedBERT fine-tuning, BioGPT fine-tuning, and in-context learning with GPT-4) and compared their performance. We assessed the impact of data augmentation methods (Easy Data Augmentation (EDA), UMLS-EDA, text generation and rephrasing with GPT-4) on model performance. We also fine-tuned section-specific PubMedBERT models (e.g., Methods) to evaluate whether they could improve performance compared to the single full model. We performed 5-fold cross-validation and report precision, recall, F1 score, and area under curve (AUC). Fine-tuned PubMedBERT model that uses the sentence along with the surrounding sentences and section headers yielded the best overall performance (sentence level: 0.71 micro-F1, 0.67 macro-F1; article-level: 0.90 micro-F1, 0.84 macro-F1). Data augmentation had limited positive effect. BioGPT fine-tuning and GPT-4 in-context learning exhibited suboptimal results. Methods-specific model improved recognition of methodology items, other section-specific models did not have significant impact. Most CONSORT checklist items can be recognized reasonably well with the fine-tuned PubMedBERT model but there is room for improvement. Improved models can underpin the journal editorial workflows and CONSORT adherence checks.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in cardiovascular medication poisoning. A German-wide retrospective study
Authors: Friedrichson Benjamin , Jasny Thomas , Old Oliver , Piekarski Florian , Ippolito Angelo , Raimann Florian J. , Zacharowski Kai , Kloka Jan Andreas
Published: September 2024

Medication poisoning, resulting from the ingestion of cardiotoxic drugs, presents a significant health issue. The mortality rate remains high for patients with myocardial dysfunction refractory to conventional treatments. Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (V-A ECMO) provides temporary support, potentially enhancing patient outcomes. This study aims to assess the efficacy of V-A ECMO in treating cardiovascular failure induced by cardiovascular medication poisoning. We utilized inpatient data from all hospitalisations in Germany from 2007 to 2022 due to cardiovascular medication poisoning treated with V-A ECMO. Patient characteristics, comorbidities, complications and application of ECMO were described descriptively and analysed for statistical significance between survivors and non-survivors. Overall, 49 patients received V-A ECMO for cardiovascular medication poisoning, with a survival rate of 63.6%. The most ingested medications were calcium-channel blockers (38.8%) and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists (34.7%). Half of non-survivors received in-hospital CPR, compared to 12.9% of survivors. Early ECMO implantation (within 24 h of admission) was common (83.7%) but did not significantly impact survival rates. A substantial number of patients presented with multiple substances ingested. V-A ECMO represents a viable option for patients experiencing cardiac failure due to medication poisoning. A structured implementation of V-A ECMO for cardiovascular medication poisoning could lead to higher survival rates.
Intelligence model on sequence-based prediction of PPI using AISSO deep concept with hyperparameter tuning process
Authors: Thareja Preeti , Chhillar Rajender Singh , Dalal Sandeep , Simaiya Sarita , Lilhore Umesh Kumar , Alroobaea Roobaea , Alsafyani Majed , Baqasah Abdullah M. , Algarni Sultan
Published: September 2024

Protein–protein interaction (PPI) prediction is vital for interpreting biological activities. Even though many diverse sorts of data and machine learning approaches have been employed in PPI prediction, performance still has to be enhanced. As a result, we adopted an Aquilla Influenced Shark Smell (AISSO)-based hybrid prediction technique to construct a sequence-dependent PPI prediction model. This model has two stages of operation: feature extraction and prediction. Along with sequence-based and Gene Ontology features, unique features were produced in the feature extraction stage utilizing the improved semantic similarity technique, which may deliver reliable findings. These collected characteristics were then sent to the prediction step, and hybrid neural networks, such as the Improved Recurrent Neural Network and Deep Belief Networks, were used to predict the PPI using modified score level fusion. These neural networks’ weight variables were adjusted utilizing a unique optimal methodology called Aquila Influenced Shark Smell (AISSO), and the outcomes showed that the developed model had attained an accuracy of around 88%, which is much better than the traditional methods; this model AISSO-based PPI prediction can provide precise and effective predictions.
Short-lived calcium carbonate precursors observed in situ via Bullet-dynamic nuclear polarization
Authors: Turhan Ertan , Minaei Masoud , Narwal Pooja , Meier Benno , Kouřil Karel , Kurzbach Dennis
Published: September 2024

The discovery of (meta)stable pre-nucleation species (PNS) challenges the established nucleation-and-growth paradigm. While stable PNS with long lifetimes are readily accessible experimentally, identifying and characterizing early-stage intermediates with short lifetimes remains challenging. We demonstrate that species with lifetimes ≪ 5 s can be characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy when boosted by ‘Bullet’ dynamic nuclear polarization (Bullet-DNP). We investigate the previously elusive early-stage prenucleation of calcium carbonates in the highly supersaturated concentration regime, characterizing species that form within milliseconds after the encounter of calcium and carbonate ions and show that ionic pre-nucleation species not only govern the solidification of calcium carbonates at weak oversaturation but also initiate rapid precipitation events at high concentrations. Such, we report a transient co-existence of two PNS with distinct molecular sizes and different compositions. This methodological advance may open new possibilities for studying and exploiting carbonate-based material formation in unexplored parts of the phase space.
Chronology of Ediacaran sedimentary and biogeochemical shifts along eastern Gondwanan margins
Authors: Cantine Marjorie D. , Rooney Alan D. , Knoll Andrew H. , Gómez-Pérez Irene , al Baloushi Badar , Bergmann Kristin D.
Published: September 2024

Determining causal relationships between environmental change and early animal evolution has been limited by our lack of a robust temporal framework for the Ediacaran Period (635-539 million years ago). Here we present six new radioisotopic age constraints from the Sultanate of Oman, which furnish a quantitative temporal framework for biogeochemical changes associated with animal radiation in the middle and late Ediacaran Period. In addition to constraining the duration of Earth’s largest negative carbon isotope excursion in its type locality, this temporal framework underpins a new understanding of Ediacaran sedimentation rates, a critical control on geochemical records and fossil preservation. Our new dates quantify early Ediacaran (prior to c. 574 million years ago) condensation in key sections across Gondwanan margins. This temporal framework highlights a pressing need to reassess proxy records of oxygenation—often hypothesized as a critical environmental constraint for the emergence of complex multicellular life—considering non-static sedimentation rates.
A sulphide resistant Ag|AgCl reference electrode for long-term monitoring
Authors: Macedo David S. , Vepsäläinen Mikko , Rodopoulos Theo , Peacock Stephen , Hogan Conor F.
Published: September 2024

Solid state reference electrodes (SSREs) with suspended AgCl are resistant to sulphide poisoning. Sulphide species are precipitated as Ag2S, inhibiting their diffusion through the polymer composite.
A dual-mode homogeneous electrochemical-colorimetric biosensing sensor for carcinoembryonic antigen detection based on a microfluidic paper-based analysis device
Authors: Zhang Yao , Xu Jiaqi , Shen Jianing , Zhang Bo , Xue Tianhao , Lv Xiaoqing , Zhang Xiaofang , Zhu Guixian
Published: September 2024

A dual-mode homogeneous electrochemical-colorimetric system was successfully developed for accurate and sensitive detection of carcinoembryonic antigen.
The effect of mixed termination composition in Sc, Ti, and V-based MXenes
Authors: Novotný Michal , Tkáčová Karolína , Karlický František
Published: September 2024

We study the effect of mixed surface termination (F, O, OH) in various patterns on the properties of Sc2C, Ti2C, V2C MXenes. We show how different compositions and patterns in mirrored or Janus configurations affect the cohesion energy and band gaps.
A multiphoton ionisation photoelectron imaging study of thiophene
Authors: Broughton Joseph J. , Patra Sarbani , Parkes Michael A. , Worth Graham A. , Fielding Helen H.
Published: September 2024

Thiophene is a prototype for the excited state photophysics that lies at the heart of many technologies within the field of organic electronics.
A strategy involving the use of 3D self-supporting B·N co-doped carbon nanofiber composite solid polymer electrolytes to stabilize the interface between polymer electrolytes and lithium metal
Authors: Wang Yujie , Sun Lingling , Li Xiaoli , Zhang Yan
Published: September 2024

Comparison of the galvanostatic cycling performance of various compounds based on PEO reported in the literature.
Experimental support for the model of Bray–Liebhafsky oscillatory reaction based on the heterogeneous effects
Authors: Bubanja Itana Nuša , Taylor Annette Fiona , Stanisavljev Dragomir
Published: September 2024

Participation of the heterogeneous effects in the Bray–Liebhafsky reaction. Content of the large bubbles in the mixture under fast and slow stirring rate with corresponding effects on oscillatory dynamics.
Cold reactions of He+ with OCS and CO2: competitive kinetics and the effects of the molecular multipole moments
Authors: Martins Fernanda B. V. , Zhelyazkova Valentina , Merkt Frédéric
Published: September 2024

The reactions of He+ with OCS and CO2 were studied at collision energies between 0.2 and 30 K ⋅ kB by merging a beam of Rydberg He atoms with rotationally cold seeded supersonic expansions containing either OCS or 13CO2 or a mixture of OCS and 13CO2.
Structural evolution and superconductivity of thorium under high pressure and its modulation
Authors: Zhan Lihui , Fan Wenhao , Miao Junyi , He Shi , Duan Qingzhuo , Dou Xilong , Lu Cheng
Published: September 2024

The recent revelation of elemental scandium exhibiting a remarkably high superconducting critical temperature (Tc) of 36 K under 260 GPa [J. Ying et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., 2023, 130, 256002] has sparked considerable scientific intrigue and attention.
A first-principles study of organic Lewis bases for passivating tin-based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Allen Oscar J. , Wu Zhenzhen , Kang Jian , Hinsch Jack J. , Yin Shiwei , Wang Yun
Published: September 2024

Tin-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are potential light absorbers for solar cell applications since they are less toxic compared to commonly used lead-based alternatives.
Modeling of mercury deposition in India: evaluating emission inventories and anthropogenic impacts
Authors: Malasani Chakradhar Reddy , Swain Basudev , Patel Ankit , Pulipatti Yaswanth , Anchan Nidhi L. , Sharma Amit , Vountas Marco , Liu Pengfei , Gunthe Sachin S.
Published: September 2024

Fragile ecosystems (Western Ghats and Himalayas), and major rice cultivation areas are vulnerable to highest Hg deposition. Indian anthropogenic emissions strongly influence deposition fluxes with varying regional impacts.
Rapid microwave synthesis of medium and high entropy oxides for outstanding oxygen evolution reaction performance
Authors: Asim Muhammad , Hussain Akbar , Kanwal Sadia , Ahmad Awais , Aykut Yasemin , Bayrakçeken Ayşe , Janjua Naveed Kausar
Published: September 2024

The development of efficient and durable catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is urgent for renewable and sustainable energy storage and conversion.
Molecular design of protein-based materials – state of the art, opportunities and challenges at the interface between materials engineering and synthetic biology
Authors: Shire Ebony , Coimbra André A. B. , Barba Ostria Carlos , Rios-Solis Leonardo , López Barreiro Diego
Published: September 2024

Recombinant DNA technology allows us to generate new nature-inspired structural proteins with monomer-level control. These proteins can be used for the manufacture of materials with applications in healthcare, textiles or adhesives, to name a few.
Intravital microscopic thermometry of rat mammary epithelium by fluorescent nanodiamond
Authors: Hamoya Takahiro , Kaminaga Kiichi , Igarashi Ryuji , Nishimura Yukiko , Yanagihara Hiromi , Morioka Takamitsu , Suzuki Chihiro , Abe Hiroshi , Ohshima Takeshi , Imaoka Tatsuhiko
Published: September 2024

This study reports an application of microscopic thermometry in a living rat using quantum sensing based on the fluorescent nanodiamond (FND) nitrogen-vacancy center, demonstrating the relevance of the technique in biomedical research using a mammal.
Catalytic asymmetric synthesis of guaiazulene analogues
Authors: Ji Xiang , Yang Shengwen , Zhao Zhifei , Li Shi-Wu
Published: September 2024

The asymmetric Michael addition reaction of guaiazulene to α,β-unsaturated 2-acyl imidazoles was developed with a chiral-at-metal Rh(iii) complex as the catalyst for the first time.
A general method for E-selective olefination of acylsilanes with isocyanides via silver catalysis
Authors: Liang Xiu-Xia , Yang Dan-Ni , Yan Xiao-Hui , Wang Peng , Han Man-Yi
Published: September 2024

A silver-catalyzed olefination reaction between acylsilanes and isocyanides is developed, resulting in E-vinylsilanes with good yields and high stereoselectivities.
Circular recycling concept for silver recovery from photovoltaic cells in Ethaline deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Lemoine Charly , Petit Yann , Karaman Thomas , Jahrsengene Gøril , Martinez Ana Maria , Benayad Anass , Billy Emmanuel
Published: September 2024

Metallic silver is directly recovered from photovoltaic cells by leaching and electrodeposition in Ethaline deep eutectic solvent associated with a redox shuttle that can be regenerated to start a new cycle.
Iodophor-catalyzed sulfenylation of indoles with sulfonyl hydrazides for the synthesis of 3-sulfenylindoles
Authors: Liu Yashuai , Yuan Yutong , He Jing , Han Sheng , Liu Yan
Published: September 2024

An iodophor-catalyzed 3-sulfenylation of indoles using sulfonyl hydrazides as sulfur source in aqueous phase has been achieved. Iodophor as catalyst and solvent is inexpensive, commercially available and no innocuous to the environment.
Unveiling the reactor effect: a comprehensive characterization of biochar derived from rubber seed shell via pyrolysis and in-house reactor
Authors: Bin Mobarak Mashrafi , Pinky Nigar Sultana , Mustafi Sonjida , Chowdhury Fariha , Nahar Aynun , Akhtar Umme Sarmeen , Quddus Md. Saiful , Yasmin Sabina , Alam Md. Ashraful
Published: September 2024

Biochar produced using our in-house reactor exhibits superior properties and cost-effectiveness compared to biochar prepared via a traditional pyrolysis reactor.
Synthetic pathways to create asymmetric center at C1 position of 1-substituted-tetrahydro-β-carbolines – a review
Authors: Asif Md. Moaz Ahmed , Lisa Susmita Roy , Qais Nazmul
Published: September 2024

Chiral 1-substituted-THβC can be synthesized from l-tryptophan or tryptamine by Pictet–Spengler reaction and chiral auxiliary; also from substituted-DHβC by ATH reaction with chiral catalysts, asymmetric addition reaction, and enzymatic catalysis.
Cooperative intra- and intermolecular hydrogen bonding in scaffolded squaramide arrays
Authors: Martínez-Crespo Luis , Whitehead George F. S. , Vitórica-Yrezábal Iñigo J. , Webb Simon J.
Published: September 2024

Aromatic rods functionalised with squaramides form intramolecularly hydrogen-bonded arrays that exhibit cooperative polarisation, an effect that increases with rod length. Greater polarisation in turn produces stronger intermolecular interactions.
A pyrenetetrayl/phenanthroline-based one-dimensional covalent organic framework for metal-free photocatalytic organic conversion
Authors: Wang Longfei , Wang Longxin , Zhao Qianrui , Ji Xiaoming , Zhao Mingqin , Zhang Yujie , Lai Miao
Published: September 2024

A 1D COF, termed PP-COF, was reported with optimized eclipsed packing (AA) and excellent optoelectronic performance. Compared with 2D COF, PP-COF exhibited more efficient photocatalytic effects in bisarylation and oxidative coupling reactions.
Observation and enhancement through alkali metal doping of p-type conductivity in the layered oxyselenides Sr2ZnO2Cu2Se2 and Ba2Zn1−xO2−xCu2Se2
Authors: Malik Zahida , Broadley Sarah , Herkelrath Sebastian J. C. , Newbrook Daniel W. , Kemp Liam , Rutt George , Gál Zoltán A. , Blandy Jack N. , Hadermann Joke , Davies Daniel W. , Smyth Robert D. , Scanlon David O. , Huang Ruomeng , Clarke Simon J. , Hyett Geoffrey
Published: September 2024

The optoelectronic properties of two layered copper oxyselenide compounds, with nominal composition Sr2ZnO2Cu2Se2 and Ba2ZnO2Cu2Se2, have been investigated to determine their suitability as p-type conductors.