bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum transport of massless Dirac fermions through wormhole-shaped curved graphene in presence of constant axial magnetic flux
Authors: Naderi F. , Hasanirokh K.
Published: April 2024

In this work, we have studied the spin-dependent quantum transport of charged fermion on $$(2+1)$$

(
2
+
1
)

-dimensional spacetime, whose spatial part is described by a wormhole-type geometry in the presence of constant axial magnetic flux. Choosing the solutions of the Dirac equation associated with real energy and momentum, we explored the spin-dependent transmission probabilities and giant magnetoresistance (GMR) through a single layer of wormhole graphene with an external magnetic field, using the transition matrix (T-Matrix) approach. The spin-up and spin-down components within the A and B sublattices of graphene in the matrix of $$4\times 1$$

4
×
1

wave function are coupled to each other due to the wormhole structure and the magnetic field. We have found that transport properties strongly depend on the magnetic field, incident energy, and geometric parameters of the system. We observed that the transmission probability increases as the radius of the wormhole increases, and the length of the wormhole decreases. The higher energies lead to a decrease in the transmission probabilities of particles. Furthermore, we observed that the probability of the spin-flip effect is almost larger than that of the non-spin-flip effect, illustrating that electrons lose their spins during transmission. These findings highlight the complex and interesting behavior of wormhole graphene in the presence of external magnetic fields and suggest that these nano structures can have potential applications in electronic and spintronic devices.
Isolation of Streptomyces inhibiting multiple-phytopathogenic fungi and characterization of lucensomycin biosynthetic gene cluster
Authors: Park Heung-Soon , Kang Seung-Hoon , Choi Si-Sun , Kim Eung-Soo
Published: April 2024

Soil microorganisms with diverse bioactive compounds such as Streptomyces are appreciated as valuable resources for the discovery of eco-friendly fungicides. This study isolated a novel Streptomyces from soil samples collected in the organic green tea fields in South Korea. The isolation process involved antifungal activity screening around 2400 culture extracts, revealing a strain designated as S. collinus Inha504 with remarkable antifungal activity against diverse phytopathogenic fungi. S. collinus Inha504 not only inhibited seven phytopathogenic fungi including Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger in bioassays and but also showed a control effect against F. oxysporum infected red pepper, strawberry, and tomato in the in vivo pot test. Genome mining of S. collinus Inha504 revealed the presence of the biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) in the chromosome encoding a polyene macrolide which is highly homologous to the lucensomycin (LCM), a compound known for effective in crop disease control. Through genetic confirmation and bioassays, the antifungal activity of S. collinus Inha504 was attributed to the presence of LCM BGC in the chromosome. These results could serve as an effective strategy to select novel Streptomyces strains with valuable biological activity through bioassay-based screening and identify biosynthetic gene clusters responsible for the metabolites using genome mining approach.
Investigating the metabolite signature of an altered oral microbiota as a discriminant factor for multiple sclerosis: a pilot study
Authors: Boussamet Léo , Montassier Emmanuel , Mathé Camille , Garcia Alexandra , Morille Jérémy , Shah Sita , Dugast Emilie , Wiertlewski Sandrine , Gourdel Mathilde , Bang Corinna , Stürner Klarissa H. , Masson Damien , Nicot Arnaud B. , Vince Nicolas , Laplaud David-Axel , Feinstein Douglas L. , Berthelot Laureline
Published: April 2024

In multiple sclerosis (MS), alterations of the gut microbiota lead to inflammation. However, the role of other microbiomes in the body in MS has not been fully elucidated. In a pilot case-controlled study, we carried out simultaneous characterization of faecal and oral microbiota and conducted an in-depth analysis of bacterial alterations associated with MS. Using 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolic inference tools, we compared the oral/faecal microbiota and bacterial metabolism pathways in French MS patients (n = 14) and healthy volunteers (HV, n = 21). A classification model based on metabolite flux balance was established and validated in an independent German cohort (MS n = 12, HV n = 38). Our analysis revealed decreases in diversity indices and oral/faecal compartmentalization, the depletion of commensal bacteria (Aggregatibacter and Streptococcus in saliva and Coprobacter and Roseburia in faeces) and enrichment of inflammation-associated bacteria in MS patients (Leptotrichia and Fusobacterium in saliva and Enterobacteriaceae and Actinomyces in faeces). Several microbial pathways were also altered (the polyamine pathway and remodelling of bacterial surface antigens and energetic metabolism) while flux balance analysis revealed associated alterations in metabolite production in MS (nitrogen and nucleoside). Based on this analysis, we identified a specific oral metabolite signature in MS patients, that could discriminate MS patients from HV and rheumatoid arthritis patients. This signature allowed us to create and validate a discrimination model on an independent cohort, which reached a specificity of 92%. Overall, the oral and faecal microbiomes were altered in MS patients. This pilot study highlights the need to study the oral microbiota and oral health implications in patients with autoimmune diseases on a larger scale and suggests that knowledge of the salivary microbiome could help guide the identification of new pathogenic mechanisms associated with the microbiota in MS patients.
Nano-scaled polyacrylonitrile for industrialization of nanofibers with photoluminescence and microbicide performance
Authors: Emam Hossam E. , Hamouda Tamer , Emam El-Amir M. , Darwesh Osama M. , Ahmed Hanan B.
Published: April 2024

Nanofibers are investigated to be superiorly applicable in different purposes such as drug delivery systems, air filters, wound dressing, water filters, and tissue engineering. Herein, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is thermally treated for autocatalytic cyclization, to give optically active PAN-nanopolymer, which is subsequently applicable for preparation of nanofibers through solution blow spinning. Whereas, solution blow spinning is identified as a process for production of nanofibers characterized with high porosity and large surface area from a minimum amounts of polymer solution. The as-prepared nanofibers were shown with excellent photoluminescence and microbicide performance. According to rheological properties, to obtain spinnable PAN-nanopolymer, PAN (12.5–15% wt/vol, honey like solution, 678–834 mPa s), thermal treatment for 2–4 h must be performed, whereas, time prolongation resulted in PAN-nanopolymer gelling or rubbering. Size distribution of PAN-nanopolymer (12.5% wt/vol) is estimated (68.8 ± 22.2 nm), to reflect its compatibility for the production of carbon nanofibers with size distribution of 300–400 nm. Spectral mapping data for the photoluminescent emission showed that, PAN-nanopolymer were exhibited with two intense peaks at 498 nm and 545 nm, to affirm their superiority for production of fluorescent nanofibers. The microbial reduction % was estimated for carbon nanofibers prepared from PAN-nanopolymer (12.5% wt/vol) to be 61.5%, 71.4% and 81.9%, against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans, respectively. So, the prepared florescent carbon nanofibers can be potentially applicable in anti-infective therapy.
Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) paradigm type affects its sensitivity as a biomarker of fibromyalgia
Authors: Gil-Ugidos A. , Vázquez-Millán A. , Samartin-Veiga N. , Carrillo-de-la-Peña M. T.
Published: April 2024

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a widespread chronic pain syndrome, possibly associated with the presence of central dysfunction in descending pain inhibition pathways. Conditioned Pain Modulation (CPM) has been proposed as a biomarker of FM. Nonetheless, the wide variety of methods used to measure CPM has hampered robust conclusions being reached. To clarify the validity of CPM as a biomarker of FM, we tested two CPM paradigms (parallel and sequential) in a sample of 23 female patients and 23 healthy women by applying test (mechanical) stimuli and conditioning (pressure cuff) stimuli. We evaluated whether CPM indices could correctly classify patients and controls, and we also determined the correlations between the indices and clinical variables such as symptomatology, disease impact, depression, quality of life, pain intensity, pain interference, fatigue and numbness. In addition, we compared the clinical status of CPM responders (efficient pain inhibitory mechanism) and non-responders. We observed that only parallel CPM testing correctly classified about 70% of patients with FM. In addition, more than 80% of healthy participants were found to be responders, while the rate was about 50% in the FM patients. The sequential CPM test was not as sensitive, with a decrease of up to 40% in the response rate for both groups. On the other hand, we did not observe any correlation between CPM measures and clinical symptoms. In summary, our findings demonstrate the influence of the CPM paradigm used and confirm that CPM may be a useful marker to complement FM diagnosis. However, the findings also cast doubts on the sensitivity of CPM as a marker of pain severity in FM.
Tuberculosis treatment outcomes and associated factors among tuberculosis patients treated at healthcare facilities of Motta Town, Northwest Ethiopia: a five-year retrospective study
Authors: Limenh Liknaw Workie , Kasahun Asmamaw Emagn , Sendekie Ashenafi Kibret , Seid Abdulwase Mohammed , Mitku Melese Legesse , Fenta Eneyew Talie , Melese Mihret , Workye Mulualem , Simegn Wudneh , Ayenew Wondim
Published: April 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern, particularly in low-resource settings. The treatment outcome is a crucial indicator of the effectiveness of TB treatment programs. Assessing the current treatment outcome and its associated factors is essential for improving patient care and reducing the spread of TB. Therefore, this study aimed to assess TB treatment outcomes and their associated factors among TB patients who received treatment at public healthcare facilities in Motta Town, Northwest Ethiopia. A facility-based retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed in two TB treatment centers in Motta town from January 2017 to December 2021. The study participants were all patients diagnosed with TB who received treatment. A p-value of 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to determine statistical significance. A total of 362 TB patients were included in the study. The overall treatment success rate was 88.4% (95% CI 85.1, 91.7). Male gender (AOR = 2.40, 95% CI 1.16, 4.98), normal nutritional status (AOR = 3.11, 95% CI 1.33, 7.25), HIV negative status (AOR = 3.35, 95% CI 1.31, 8.60), and non-presumptive drug resistance to TB (AOR = 3.72, 95% CI 1.74, 7.98) were significantly associated with successful TB treatment outcomes (p < 0.05). In the current study, nine out of ten study participants had successful TB treatment outcome rates. Male gender, normal nutritional status, non-presumed drug resistance to TB, and HIV-negative status were significantly associated with successful TB treatment outcomes. By taking risk factors associated with poor treatment outcomes like those found in this study into account, patient management and treatment can be optimized. Sufficient TB control measures for populations are imperative and could significantly reduce the nation's total TB burden.
Neuron-level explainable AI for Alzheimer’s Disease assessment from fundus images
Authors: Yousefzadeh Nooshin , Tran Charlie , Ramirez-Zamora Adolfo , Chen Jinghua , Fang Ruogu , Thai My T.
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and the leading cause of dementia. Early diagnosis is critical for patients to benefit from potential intervention and treatment. The retina has emerged as a plausible diagnostic site for AD detection owing to its anatomical connection with the brain. However, existing AI models for this purpose have yet to provide a rational explanation behind their decisions and have not been able to infer the stage of the disease’s progression. Along this direction, we propose a novel model-agnostic explainable-AI framework, called Granu$$\underline{la}$$

la

̲

r Neuron-le$$\underline{v}$$

v
̲

el Expl$$\underline{a}$$

a
̲

iner (LAVA), an interpretation prototype that probes into intermediate layers of the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models to directly assess the continuum of AD from the retinal imaging without the need for longitudinal or clinical evaluations. This innovative approach aims to validate retinal vasculature as a biomarker and diagnostic modality for evaluating Alzheimer’s Disease. Leveraged UK Biobank cognitive tests and vascular morphological features demonstrate significant promise and effectiveness of LAVA in identifying AD stages across the progression continuum.
Factors influencing smartphone overdependence among adolescents
Authors: Noh Dabok , Shim Mi-So
Published: April 2024

Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to smartphone overdependence. Therefore, we identified the factors influencing smartphone overdependence and risk subgroups among adolescents. The current study is a secondary analysis of nationally representative data from the 2020 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The survey targeted middle- and high-school students in South Korea aged 12–18 using stratified, clustered, multistage probability sampling, and 53,457 students from 793 schools participated in this study. Complex sample data were analyzed considering the strata, clusters, and weights. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed age, gender, household economic status, anxiety, loneliness, depressive symptoms, and experience of violent treatment as significant predictors of smartphone overdependence. Adolescents with severe anxiety were at a 3.326 times higher risk of smartphone overdependence than adolescents with minimal anxiety. Decision tree analysis showed that anxiety, gender, loneliness, and depressive symptoms were important in differentiating risk subgroups, with anxiety being the most significant factor. Group 13, comprising girls with severe anxiety, had the highest risk at 52.9%. Thus, early detection and prevention of issues such as anxiety, loneliness, and depressive symptoms, as well as treatment for violence, can prevent smartphone overdependence among adolescents. Additionally, more thorough interventions for anxiety are warranted to prevent smartphone overdependence.
Value of magnetic resonance angiography before prostatic artery embolization for intervention planning
Authors: Boschheidgen Matthias , Ullrich Tim , Al-Monajjed Rouvier , Ziayee Farid , Michalski Rene , Steuwe Andrea , Minko Peter , Albers Peter , Antoch Gerald , Schimmöller Lars
Published: April 2024

Knowledge about anatomical details seems to facilitate the procedure and planning of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) in patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPS). The aim of our study was the pre-interventional visualization of the prostatic artery (PA) with MRA and the correlation of iliac elongation and bifurcation angles with technical success of PAE and technical parameters. MRA data of patients with PAE were analysed retrospectively regarding PA visibility, PA type, vessel elongation, and defined angles were correlated with intervention time, fluoroscopy time, dose area product (DAP), cumulative air kerma (CAK), contrast media (CM) dose and technical success of embolization. T-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and Kruskal–Wallis test was applied for statistical analysis. Between April 2018 and March 2021, a total of 78 patients were included. MRA identified the PA origin in 126 of 147 cases (accuracy 86%). Vessel elongation affected time for catheterization of right PA (p = 0.02), fluoroscopy time (p = 0.05), and CM dose (p = 0.02) significantly. Moderate correlation was observed for iliac bifurcation angles with DAP (r = 0.30 left; r = 0.34 right; p = 0.01) and CAK (r = 0.32 left; r = 0.36 right; p = 0.01) on both sides. Comparing the first half and second half of patients, median intervention time (125 vs. 105 min.) and number of iliac CBCT could be reduced (p < 0.001). We conclude that MRA could depict exact pelvic artery configuration, identify PA origin, and might obviate iliac CBCT. Vessel elongation of pelvic arteries increased intervention time and contrast media dose while the PA origin had no significant influence on intervention time and/or technical success.
Methodological considerations for behavioral studies relying on response time outcomes through online crowdsourcing platforms
Authors: McConnell Patrick A. , Finetto Christian , Heise Kirstin-Friederike
Published: April 2024

This perspective paper explores challenges associated with online crowdsourced data collection, particularly focusing on longitudinal tasks with time-sensitive outcomes like response latencies. Based on our research, we identify two significant sources of bias: technical shortcomings such as low, variable frame rates, and human factors, contributing to high attrition rates. We explored potential solutions to these problems, such as enforcing hardware acceleration and defining study-specific frame rate thresholds, as well as pre-screening participants and monitoring hardware performance and task engagement over each experimental session. With this discussion, we intend to provide recommendations on how to improve the quality and reliability of data collected via online crowdsourced platforms and emphasize the need for researchers to be cognizant of potential pitfalls in online research.
Synthesis of N,N′-alkylidene bisamides and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction derivatives with Pd organometallic catalyst anchored to channels of mesoporous silica MCM-41
Authors: Ibraheem Shelash Al-Hawary Sulieman , Saleh Raed Obaid , AlBajalan Ahmed Rafiq , Fayzullaev Normurot , Alshuhri Mohammed , Hayif Jasim Ali Saad , Alawadi Ahmed , Jawad Mohammed Abed , Alsaadi Salim B. , Ghorayshi Nejad Maryam Sadat
Published: April 2024

At first, an organometallic catalyst namely, Pd-DPyE@MCM-41@MNP was prepared through magnetic (Fe3O4) nanoparticles-doped into channels of mesoporous silica MCM-41 and then, anchoring a novel complex composed of di(4-pyridyl)ethylene and palladium on the inner surface of the support. This immobilized catalyst was successfully identified via VSM, ICP-OES, TEM, FTIR, TGA, SEM, BET, XRD, EDX and elemental mapping analyses. After that, it was used as a versatile, heterogeneous, and magnetically reproducible catalyst in the generation of N,N′-alkylidene bisamides (1a-13a, 8–20 min, 90–98%, 50 °C, solvent-free) and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling (SMC) reaction derivatives (1b-26b, 10–140 min, 86–98%, 60 °C, PEG-400). The VSM plot of Pd-DPyE@MCM-41@MNP displays that this nanocatalyst can be easily recycled by applying an external magnetic field. In both synthetic paths, this nanocatalyst was reused at least seven times without palladium leaching and significantly reducing its catalytic performance. Also, stability and heterogeneous nature of catalyst were approved via ICP-OES technique and hot filtration test.
Efficient DNA-based data storage using shortmer combinatorial encoding
Authors: Preuss Inbal , Rosenberg Michael , Yakhini Zohar , Anavy Leon
Published: April 2024

Data storage in DNA has recently emerged as a promising archival solution, offering space-efficient and long-lasting digital storage solutions. Recent studies suggest leveraging the inherent redundancy of synthesis and sequencing technologies by using composite DNA alphabets. A major challenge of this approach involves the noisy inference process, obstructing large composite alphabets. This paper introduces a novel approach for DNA-based data storage, offering, in some implementations, a 6.5-fold increase in logical density over standard DNA-based storage systems, with near-zero reconstruction error. Combinatorial DNA encoding uses a set of clearly distinguishable DNA shortmers to construct large combinatorial alphabets, where each letter consists of a subset of shortmers. We formally define various combinatorial encoding schemes and investigate their theoretical properties. These include information density and reconstruction probabilities, as well as required synthesis and sequencing multiplicities. We then propose an end-to-end design for a combinatorial DNA-based data storage system, including encoding schemes, two-dimensional (2D) error correction codes, and reconstruction algorithms, under different error regimes. We performed simulations and show, for example, that the use of 2D Reed-Solomon error correction has significantly improved reconstruction rates. We validated our approach by constructing two combinatorial sequences using Gibson assembly, imitating a 4-cycle combinatorial synthesis process. We confirmed the successful reconstruction, and established the robustness of our approach for different error types. Subsampling experiments supported the important role of sampling rate and its effect on the overall performance. Our work demonstrates the potential of combinatorial shortmer encoding for DNA-based data storage and describes some theoretical research questions and technical challenges. Combining combinatorial principles with error-correcting strategies, and investing in the development of DNA synthesis technologies that efficiently support combinatorial synthesis, can pave the way to efficient, error-resilient DNA-based storage solutions.
6-Gingerol attenuates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury through regulating MKP5-mediated P38/JNK pathway
Authors: Yu Qiwen , Li Jiye , Cui Mengwei , Mei Chaopeng , He Qianqian , Du Xiaoxiao
Published: April 2024

6-Gingerol, the main bioactive compound of ginger, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and neuroprotective effects. However, it is unclear whether 6-Gingerol has protective effects against hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. In this study, the mouse liver I/R injury model and the mouse AML12 cell hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model were established by pretreatment with 6-Gingerol at different concentrations to explore the potential effects of 6-Gingerol. Serum transaminase levels, liver necrotic area, cell viability, inflammatory response, and cell apoptosis were used to assess the effect of 6-Gingerol on hepatic I/R or cell H/R injury. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression. The results show that 6-Gingerol decreased serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, liver necrosis, inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, TNF-α expression, Ly6g+ inflammatory cell infiltration, protein phosphorylation of NF-κB signaling pathway, Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells, cell apoptosis rate, the protein expression of pro-apoptotic protein BAX and C-Caspase3, increased cell viability, and expression of anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2. Moreover, 6-Gingerol could increase the mRNA and protein expression of mitogen activated protein kinase phosphatase 5 (MKP5) and inhibit the activation of P38/JNK signaling pathway. In MKP5 knockout (KO) mice, the protective effect of 6-gingerol and the inhibition of P38/JNK pathway were significantly weakened. Therefore, our results suggest that 6-Gingerol exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects to attenuate hepatic I/R injury by regulating the MKP5-mediated P38/JNK signaling pathway.
Design of robotic arm for the porcelain bushing in substation
Authors: Chen Hao , Han Wei , Xu Weilun , Tang Zongyao , Chen Yini , Xu Peng , Ma Zhaoxing
Published: April 2024

With the development and the application popularization of artificial intelligence robot technology and 5G technology, a robotic arm is designed and developed for rinsing porcelain bushing in high voltage substation in this paper. Firstly, the components and implementation of robotic arm are presented, subsequently, a circular cleaning structure with a 120-degree split is proposed to rinse the porcelain bushing. Secondly, a two-stage simple and effective method to realize automatic orientation is proposed utilizing photoelectric switches. Moreover, a prototype of robotic arm with control system is developed based on the regime switching function, and the result of edge computing is transmitted by 5G technology. Finally, feasibility and effectiveness of the robotic arm are verified in the Nanjing power grid. The case study manifests that the robotic arm developed by the proposed method in the paper can achieve efficient rinsing and all the corresponding information can be transmitted preciously. The proposed method lays a foundation for wide application of cleaning robot in high voltage substation.
The angle of arrival estimation of frequency-hopping cooperative object based on software-defined radio
Authors: Rustamaji  , Kliwati Sri , Widada Wahyu
Published: April 2024

The primary objective of this research is to propose and examine a technique for accurately determining the azimuth angle of cooperative objects. The proposed methodology aims were to achieve fast processing, increased precision, and enhanced safety. A transmitter emitting a continuous wave with a hopping frequency was utilized in combination with interferometry techniques to measure the angle of arrival (AOA) between two antennas. The efficient method incorporates a coarse-to-fine strategy that improves processing speed and azimuth angle accuracy and to effectively eliminate any signal interference, a Fourier bandpass filter is utilized. The coarse estimation is performed using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm, while the fine estimation is achieved using the multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm. The fine estimation involves utilizing coarse angle input and a scan limit of 2.5° that is determined from the largest simulated root mean square error (RMSE) value. Modelling and outdoor testing using software defined radio (SDR) have been carried out to assess the proposed methodology. The results from the analysis indicate that the proposed method produces the desired RMSE estimation of less than 1°, thereby validating its accuracy and effectiveness.
Ocular blood flow in preterm neonates
Authors: Silverman Ronald H. , Urs Raksha , Horowitz Jason D. , Coki Osode , Pinto Leora
Published: April 2024

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disorder affecting low birthweight, preterm neonates. In the preterm eye, the retina is not fully developed and neovascularization may occur at the margin between the developed vascular retina and undeveloped avascular retina. Without timely treatment by laser or intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy, this can lead to tractional retinal detachment and blindness. Visualization of the retina in regular examinations by indirect ophthalmoscopy is hence the current standard of care, but the exams are stressful and interpretation of images is subjective. The upregulation of VEGF in ROP would suggest an increase in ocular blood flow. In this report, we evaluate the potential of ultrafast plane-wave Doppler ultrasound (PWU) to detect increased flow velocities in the orbital vessels supplying the eye in a gentle exam with objective findings. We imaged both eyes of 50 low-birthweight preterm neonates using 18 MHz PWU. Flow velocity in the central retinal artery (CRA) and vein (CRV), and the short posterior ciliary arteries were determined and values at each ROP Stage compared. We found significantly increased velocities in the CRA and CRV in Stage 3 ROP eyes, where intervention would be considered. We compared multivariate models for identifying Stage 3 eyes comprised solely of clinical factors, solely of Doppler parameters, and clinical plus Doppler parameters. The respective models provided areas under their respective ROC curves of 0.760, 0.812, and 0.904. PWU Doppler represents a gentle, objective means for identifying neonates at risk for ROP that could complement ophthalmoscopy.
Screening of cellulose-degrading bacteria and optimization of cellulase production from Bacillus cereus A49 through response surface methodology
Authors: Wang Jinjun , Bao Fei , Wei Huixian , Zhang Yang
Published: April 2024

Cellulose-degrading microorganisms hold immense significance in utilizing cellulose resources efficiently. The screening of natural cellulase bacteria and the optimization of fermentation conditions are the hot spots of research. This study meticulously screened cellulose-degrading bacteria from mixed soil samples adopting a multi-step approach, encompassing preliminary culture medium screening, Congo red medium-based re-screening, and quantification of cellulase activity across various strains. Particularly, three robust cellulase-producing strains were identified: A24 (MT740356.1 Brevibacillus borstelensis), A49 (MT740358.1 Bacillus cereus), and A61 (MT740357.1 Paenibacillus sp.). For subsequent cultivation experiments, the growth curves of the three obtained isolates were monitored diligently. Additionally, optimal CMCase production conditions were determined, keeping CMCase activity as a key metric, through a series of single-factor experiments: agitation speed, cultivation temperature, unit medium concentration, and inoculum volume. Maximum CMCase production was observed at 150 rpm/37 °C, doubling the unit medium addition, and a 5 mL inoculation volume. Further optimization was conducted using the selected isolate A49 employing response surface methodology. The software model recommended a 2.21fold unit medium addition, 36.11 °C temperature, and 4.91 mL inoculant volume for optimal CMCase production. Consequently, three parallel experiments were conducted based on predicted conditions consistently yielding an average CMCase production activity of 15.63 U/mL, closely aligning with the predicted value of 16.41 U/mL. These findings validated the reliability of the model and demonstrated the effectiveness of optimized CMCase production conditions for isolate A49.
Fecal DNA analysis coupled with the sighting records re-expanded a known distribution of dugongs in Ryukyu Islands after half a century
Authors: Ozawa Hiroyuki , Yoshihama Takahiro , Gishitomi Shogo , Watanabe Natsuki , Ichikawa Kotaro , Sato Keiichi , Watanabe Kenta , Takano Katsuhiko , Ochiai Yosuke , Yamanaka Hiroki , Maruyama Atsushi
Published: April 2024

DNA analysis of large herbivore feces samples collected from seagrass beds at two distant sites (Irabu Island in Miyako Islands and Kushi in Okinawa Island) in the Ryukyu Islands proved that some of these feces were from dugongs, which had been treated in recent studies as extinct in this region since the last stranding of a deceased individual in 2019. In addition, local knowledge of sightings of animals thought to be dugongs and confirmed cases of dugong feeding trails since 2010 were compiled to estimate its recent distribution. This is the first scientific report on the presence of this mammal in the Ryukyu Islands within the last four years, and particularly in the Miyako Islands within the last half-century. As the Ryukyu Islands are known to be the northern limit of the dugong’s fragmented distribution in East Asia, conservation efforts are therefore needed.
q-Diffusion leverages the full dimensionality of gene coexpression in single-cell transcriptomics
Authors: Marmarelis Myrl G. , Littman Russell , Battaglin Francesca , Niedzwiecki Donna , Venook Alan , Ambite Jose-Luis , Galstyan Aram , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Ver Steeg Greg
Published: April 2024

Unlocking the full dimensionality of single-cell RNA sequencing data (scRNAseq) is the next frontier to a richer, fuller understanding of cell biology. We introduce q-diffusion, a framework for capturing the coexpression structure of an entire library of genes, improving on state-of-the-art analysis tools. The method is demonstrated via three case studies. In the first, q-diffusion helps gain statistical significance for differential effects on patient outcomes when analyzing the CALGB/SWOG 80405 randomized phase III clinical trial, suggesting precision guidance for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Secondly, q-diffusion is benchmarked against existing scRNAseq classification methods using an in vitro PBMC dataset, in which the proposed method discriminates IFN-γ stimulation more accurately. The same case study demonstrates improvements in unsupervised cell clustering with the recent Tabula Sapiens human atlas. Finally, a local distributional segmentation approach for spatial scRNAseq, driven by q-diffusion, yields interpretable structures of human cortical tissue.
A spatiotemporal proteomic map of human adipogenesis
Authors: Klingelhuber Felix , Frendo-Cumbo Scott , Omar-Hmeadi Muhmmad , Massier Lucas , Kakimoto Pamela , Taylor Austin J. , Couchet Morgane , Ribicic Sara , Wabitsch Martin , Messias Ana C. , Iuso Arcangela , Müller Timo D. , Rydén Mikael , Mejhert Niklas , Krahmer Natalie
Published: April 2024

White adipocytes function as major energy reservoirs in humans by storing substantial amounts of triglycerides, and their dysfunction is associated with metabolic disorders; however, the mechanisms underlying cellular specialization during adipogenesis remain unknown. Here, we generate a spatiotemporal proteomic atlas of human adipogenesis, which elucidates cellular remodelling as well as the spatial reorganization of metabolic pathways to optimize cells for lipid accumulation and highlights the coordinated regulation of protein localization and abundance during adipocyte formation. We identify compartment-specific regulation of protein levels and localization changes of metabolic enzymes to reprogramme branched-chain amino acids and one-carbon metabolism to provide building blocks and reduction equivalents. Additionally, we identify C19orf12 as a differentiation-induced adipocyte lipid droplet protein that interacts with the translocase of the outer membrane complex of lipid droplet-associated mitochondria and regulates adipocyte lipid storage by determining the capacity of mitochondria to metabolize fatty acids. Overall, our study provides a comprehensive resource for understanding human adipogenesis and for future discoveries in the field.
Direct and selective pharmacological disruption of the YAP–TEAD interface by IAG933 inhibits Hippo-dependent and RAS–MAPK-altered cancers
Authors: Chapeau Emilie A. , Sansregret Laurent , Galli Giorgio G. , Chène Patrick , Wartmann Markus , Mourikis Thanos P. , Jaaks Patricia , Baltschukat Sabrina , Barbosa Ines A. M. , Bauer Daniel , Brachmann Saskia M. , Delaunay Clara , Estadieu Claire , Faris Jason E. , Furet Pascal , Harlfinger Stefanie , Hueber Andreas , Jiménez Núñez Eloísa , Kodack David P. , Mandon Emeline , Martin Typhaine , Mesrouze Yannick , Romanet Vincent , Scheufler Clemens , Sellner Holger , Stamm Christelle , Sterker Dario , Tordella Luca , Hofmann Francesco , Soldermann Nicolas , Schmelzle Tobias
Published: April 2024

The YAP–TEAD protein–protein interaction mediates YAP oncogenic functions downstream of the Hippo pathway. To date, available YAP–TEAD pharmacologic agents bind into the lipid pocket of TEAD, targeting the interaction indirectly via allosteric changes. However, the consequences of a direct pharmacological disruption of the interface between YAP and TEADs remain largely unexplored. Here, we present IAG933 and its analogs as potent first-in-class and selective disruptors of the YAP–TEAD protein–protein interaction with suitable properties to enter clinical trials. Pharmacologic abrogation of the interaction with all four TEAD paralogs resulted in YAP eviction from chromatin and reduced Hippo-mediated transcription and induction of cell death. In vivo, deep tumor regression was observed in Hippo-driven mesothelioma xenografts at tolerated doses in animal models as well as in Hippo-altered cancer models outside mesothelioma. Importantly this also extended to larger tumor indications, such as lung, pancreatic and colorectal cancer, in combination with RTK, KRAS-mutant selective and MAPK inhibitors, leading to more efficacious and durable responses. Clinical evaluation of IAG933 is underway.
Sustained ocean cooling insufficient to reverse sea level rise from Antarctica
Authors: Alevropoulos-Borrill Alanna , Golledge Nicholas R. , Cornford Stephen L. , Lowry Daniel P. , Krapp Mario
Published: April 2024

Global mean sea level has risen at an accelerating rate in the last decade and will continue to rise for centuries. The Amundsen Sea Embayment in West Antarctica is a critical region for present and future ice loss, however most studies consider only a worst-case future for the region. Here we use ice sheet model sensitivity experiments to investigate the centennial scale implications of short-term periods of enhanced ocean driven sub-ice shelf melting on ice loss and assess what future reduction in melting is necessary to mitigate ice stream retreat and offset global sea level rise. Our findings reveal that restoring elevated melt rates to present-day levels within 100 years causes rates of ice discharge to immediately decline, thereby limiting the overall sea level contribution from the region. However, while ice stream re-advance and slowed ice discharge is possible with reduced basal melting, a centennial scale increase in accumulation must occur to offset the extensive ice loss.
Microbial communities modulate chemical weathering and carbon dioxide cycling in an active orogen in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Pei-Ling , Tu Tzu-Hsuan , Lin Li-Hung , Chou Hsi-Ling , Wang Yi-Jie , Chen Jhen-Nien , Wang Lu-Yu , Chang Jui-Ming , Chu Mei-Fei , Hsu Yi-Chun , Chang Chung-Pai , Wu Yih-Ming , Lin Yen-Tsu , Ke Chien-Chung
Published: April 2024

Chemical weathering modulates carbon transfer between the crust, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. The extent to which microbial processes are involved in mineral dissolution remains elusive. Here, we performed geochemical and molecular analyses of river water and other materials collected from a rapidly exhuming catchment in eastern Taiwan. In addition to solute generation driven primarily by pyrite-induced carbonate weathering, highly skewed microbial community compositions with abundant Sulfuricurvum and Thiobacillus members were detected during high-water periods. The yields of these taxa were also correlated with those of sulfate and sediments, suggesting that pyrite oxidation and carbonate dissolution were facilitated by sulfur-respiring microorganisms inhabiting erodible materials at a pace comparable to the supply of sulfur-bearing minerals through rapid exhumation. The net CO2 export regulated by such potentially supply-limited, microbially-mediated mineral weathering greatly surpasses the global average, highlighting active orogens in high-standing islands as important CO2 contributors rendered by tandem biotic and abiotic processes.
Nuclear phosphoinositide signaling promotes YAP/TAZ-TEAD transcriptional activity in breast cancer
Authors: Jung Oisun , Baek Min-jeong , Wooldrik Colin , Johnson Keith R , Fisher Kurt W , Lou Jinchao , Ricks Tanei J , Wen Tianmu , Best Michael D , Cryns Vincent L , Anderson Richard A , Choi Suyong
Published: April 2024

The Hippo pathway effectors Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) and its homolog TAZ are transcriptional coactivators that control gene expression by binding to TEA domain (TEAD) family transcription factors. The YAP/TAZ–TEAD complex is a key regulator of cancer-specific transcriptional programs, which promote tumor progression in diverse types of cancer, including breast cancer. Despite intensive efforts, the YAP/TAZ–TEAD complex in cancer has remained largely undruggable due to an incomplete mechanistic understanding. Here, we report that nuclear phosphoinositides function as cofactors that mediate the binding of YAP/TAZ to TEADs. The enzymatic products of phosphoinositide kinases PIPKIα and IPMK, including phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (P(I3,4,5)P3), bridge the binding of YAP/TAZ to TEAD. Inhibiting these kinases or the association of YAP/TAZ with PI(4,5)P2 and PI(3,4,5)P3 attenuates YAP/TAZ interaction with the TEADs, the expression of YAP/TAZ target genes, and breast cancer cell motility. Although we could not conclusively exclude the possibility that other enzymatic products of IPMK such as inositol phosphates play a role in the mechanism, our results point to a previously unrecognized role of nuclear phosphoinositide signaling in control of YAP/TAZ activity and implicate this pathway as a potential therapeutic target in YAP/TAZ-driven breast cancer.
Establishing a new methodology for determining the water absorbability of cellulose-derived materials via a vapor-monitoring headspace strategy
Authors: Gong Yi-Xian , Xie Wei-Qi
Published: April 2024

In this research, for the first time, we introduce a vapor-monitoring headspace strategy to establish a new methodology for determining the water absorbability of cellulose-derived materials.
Propulsion of zwitterionic surfactant-stabilized water-in-oil droplets by low electric fields
Authors: Gustavsson Lotta , Peng Bo , Plamont Rémi , Ikkala Olli
Published: April 2024

Applied low electric field leads to a directional and velocity-controllable on-demand droplet propulsion.
Strategically incorporated V in rod-like Ni-MOF as an effective catalyst for the water oxidation reaction
Authors: Bera Krishnendu , Roy Suprobhat Singha , Madhu Ragunath , De Aditi , Gudlur Pradeep , Kundu Subrata
Published: April 2024

V-incorporated Ni–BTC, exhibits good catalytic activity and stability towards OER in 1 M KOH. Moreover, TOF value was increased 20-time, due to transfer of electron from Ni2+ to V4+ results in an increase in electronic conductivity of NiV–BTC.
Carbon-coated FeCoNi nanocatalysts for the electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Huang Haitao , Zhang Chengcheng , Li Haijin , Wang Jianmin , Chen Zhijie , He Yitao , Li Yongtao , Hu Jing , Liu Xiaofang , Deng Xiaolong , Shi Shaochun
Published: April 2024

Developing low-cost, high-activity transition metal-based oxygen reduction electrocatalysts to replace noble metals in oxygen reduction reactions continues to pose a notable difficulty in the field of research.
A multiobjective closed-loop approach towards autonomous discovery of electrocatalysts for nitrogen reduction
Authors: Kavalsky Lance , Hegde Vinay I. , Meredig Bryce , Viswanathan Venkatasubramanian
Published: April 2024

We propose a multiobjective scoring scheme toward closed-loop computational discovery of electrocatalysts. To demonstrate, we autonomously search over single-atom alloys for active, stable, and cost-effective systems for nitrogen reduction.
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HF01 fermented yogurt alleviated high-fat diet-induced obesity and hepatic steatosis via the gut microbiota–butyric acid–hepatic lipid metabolism axis
Authors: Sun Yue , Liu Xiaolin , Wang Rongchun , Liu Rongmei , Lv Xuepeng , Ma Ying , Li Qiming
Published: April 2024

The fermented yogurt of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HF01 alters obese mice gut microbiota by boosting beneficial flora and butyric acid, activates AMPK to regulate lipid metabolism, combating obesity.
Unprecedented linear products by a mechanochemically activated Biginelli reaction using lawsone
Authors: Koumpoura Christina L. , Vendier Laure , Bijani Christian , Robert Anne , Carbonnière Philippe , Sotiropoulos Jean-Marc , Baltas Michel
Published: April 2024

The Biginelli reaction, a crucial multicomponent reaction, was investigated involving 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (lawsone), p-substituted benzaldehydes, and ureas.
Ultrafast and accurate prediction of polycrystalline hafnium oxide phase-field ferroelectric hysteresis using graph neural networks
Authors: Kévin Alhada-Lahbabi , Damien Deleruyelle , Brice Gautier
Published: April 2024

Accelerate ferroelectric material discovery with a highly accurate and efficient Graph Neural Network predicting hysteresis in polycrystalline hafnium oxide.
Reinforcement of nanofibrillar hydrogels via cyclodextrin and self-assembling peptide interactions for controlled drug delivery
Authors: Cao Fangling , Xu Jing , Wang Xiujie , Liu Yuanyuan , Pang Shuqin , Jiao Qishu , Zhou Shuyao , Zhong Wenying , Xu Keming
Published: April 2024

The Fmoc-GFFG/SBE-β-CD@HCPT hydrogel exploits host–guest interactions between Fmoc-GFFG and SBE-β-CD, resulting in enhanced viscoelastic strength of hydrogel and sustained release of HCPT.
Smart materials for light control of droplets
Authors: Liu Meijin , Hua Jiachuan , Du Xuemin
Published: April 2024

Research work in light control of droplets is summarized from three aspects: underlying mechanism of light control of droplets, smart material design for light control of droplets, as well as the diverse applications of light control of droplets.
Tuning electronic levels in photoactive hydroxylated titania nanosystems: combining the ligand dipole effect and quantum confinement
Authors: Recio-Poo Miguel , Morales-García Ángel , Illas Francesc , Bromley Stefan T.
Published: April 2024

Electronic levels in photoactive titania nanosystems can be tuned using a combination of size (quantum confinement) and hydroxylation (ligand dipole effect).
Elucidating the assembly of nanoparticle organic hybrid materials (NOHMs) near an electrode interface with varying potential using neutron reflectivity
Authors: Haque Md Ashraful , Hamilton Sara T. , Feric Tony G. , Park Ah-Hyung Alissa , Dadmun Mark D.
Published: April 2024

Schematic showing the ordering of free HPE polymer in D2O (left), static NOHM-I-HPE in D2O (middle), and NOHM-I-HPE in a negative potential in D2O (right) near a gold electrode.
A durable hydrophobic photothermal membrane based on a honeycomb structure MXene for stable and efficient solar desalination
Authors: Liu Chunjiao , Wu Peng
Published: April 2024

A biomimetic honeycomb structure and the modification of AuNFs were used to improve the photothermal conversion capability of MXene. Efficient solar driven water evaporation is achieved by covering the MXene/AuNFs with a hydrophobic layer.
Comprehensive study of lumped kinetic models and bio-oil characterization in microwave-assisted pyrolysis of Sargassum sp.
Authors: Widawati Teta Fathya , Refki Muhammad Fuad , Rochmadi  , Wintoko Joko , Budiman Arief
Published: April 2024

This research aims to study the kinetics of pyrolysis of Sargassum sp. using a microwave reactor and characterize the components in the bio-oil.
Agent-based modeling of stress anisotropy driven nematic ordering in growing biofilms
Authors: Li Changhao , Nijjer Japinder , Feng Luyi , Zhang Qiuting , Yan Jing , Zhang Sulin
Published: April 2024

Our agent-based model reveals complex spatiotemperal evolution of the morphology and internal cell ordering of Vibrio cholerae biofilms.
Dual-mode detection of 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid based on the enhanced peroxidase-like activity and fluorescence property of novel Eu-MOFs
Authors: Yi Jintao , Han Xianqin , Jian Jiahao , Lai Yayan , Lu Jun , Peng Lei , Liu Zhongkai , Xue Jun , Zhou Hui , Li Xun
Published: April 2024

The dual-mode fluorescence and colorimetric detection of 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid (DPA) based on the enhanced peroxidase-like activity and fluorescence property of a novel MOF.
NaK alloy as a versatile reagent for template-free synthesis of porous metal- and metalloid-based nanostructures
Authors: Leonchuk Sergei S. , Falchevskaya Aleksandra S. , Morozova Polina A. , Gromov Nikolai V. , Vinogradov Vladimir V.
Published: April 2024

Using the liquid NaK alloy, we present a new versatile approach to the synthesis of porous metal- and metalloid-based nanomaterials. NaK alloy can be simultaneously used as an agent for reduction, structure directing, and pore formation.
Realization of efficient and selective NO and NO2 detection via surface functionalized h-B2S2 monolayer
Authors: Nath Upasana , Sarma Manabendra
Published: April 2024

This study illustrated the potential use of a lighter element-based transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD)-like material as a viable candidate for the detection of NO and NO2 gases with applications in future nanoelectronics.