bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speciation of vanadium and the interacted solid surface of δ-alumina adsorbent in aqueous media in presence of humic acid
Authors: El-sayed Ashraf A.
Published: June 2024

Speciation of vanadium elements in the presence of δ-alumina in aqueous media was studied to simulate the environmental impact of soil/sediment–water interacted system. Factors affecting this process are pH, presence of humic acid, and δ-alumina concentrations as an abundant sediment/soil components. Different species of both vanadium and surface of δ-alumina were deduced theoretically using MintaqA2 programme. Due to the effect of pH, the anionic species of vanadium at pH 1–3 is prevailed and changed to cationic species at pH range 6–10 at different levels of alumina. Additionally, based on the effect of alumina concertation, high percent uptake, almost 100% was found at 10.0 g/1 concentration of alumina while at level of 0.2 g/1 alumina, the maximum adsorption of vanadium was become 91%. The effect of humic acid on the speciation behavior of vanadium (V) was also studied and compared with that of vanadium (IV) based on XANES (X-ray absorption near edge structure). Adsorption behaviors were studied at concentration 4.71E-4M for vanadium at 0.1M ionic strength. The mechanism of vanadium adsorption in the presence of alumina under the same working conditions was studied and explained based on TLM (Triple layer model) where the results proved good validation and verification of the practically produced data.
Surface charge change in carbonates during low-salinity imbibition
Authors: Feldmann Felix , Al-Shalabi Emad W. , Hiorth Aksel
Published: June 2024

Optimizing the injection water salinity could present a cost-effective strategy for improving oil recovery. Although the literature generally acknowledges that low-salinity improves oil recovery in laboratory-scale experiments, the physical mechanisms behind it are controversial. While most experimental low-salinity studies focus on brine composition, this study investigated the influence of carbonate rock material on surface charge change, wettability alteration, and spontaneous imbibition behavior. Zeta potential measurements showed that each tested carbonate rock material exhibits characteristic surface charge responses when exposed to Formation-water, Seawater, and Diluted-seawater. Moreover, the surface charge change sensitivity to calcium, magnesium, and sulfate ions varied for the tested carbonate materials. Spontaneous imbibition tests led to high oil recovery and, thus, wettability alteration towards water-wet conditions if the carbonate-imbibing brine system’s surface charge decreased compared to the initial zeta potential of the carbonate Formation-water system. In the numerical part of the presented study, we find that it is essential to account for the location of the shear plane and thus distinguish between the numerically computed surface charge and experimentally determined zeta potential. The resulting model numerically reproduced the experimentally measured calcium, magnesium, and sulfate ion impacts on zeta potential. The spontaneous imbibition tests were history-matched by linking surface charge change to capillary pressure alteration. As the numerical simulation of the laboratory-scale spontaneous imbibition tests is governed by molecular diffusion (with a time scale of weeks), we conclude that molecular diffusion-driven field scale wettability alteration requires several hundred years.
Evaluation of the application potential of Bdellovibrio sp. YBD-1 isolated from Yak faeces
Authors: Xi Yao , Pan Yangyang , Li Mei , Zeng Qiaoying , Wang Meng
Published: June 2024

Studies on Bdellovibrio and like organisms (BALOs), obligate predatory bacteria, have highlighted the possibility of regulating bacteria and biofilms; however, yak-derived BALOs are yet to be reported. We aimed to characterize the BALOs isolated and identified from yak (Bos grunniens) feces and examine application potential. BALOs were isolated from healthy yak fecal samples, with Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) as prey using the double-layer agar method, identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the specific 16S rDNA sequencing analysis. Sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene indicated that this isolate was 91% similar to the Bdellovibrio sp. NC01 reference strain and was named YBD-1. Proportion of YBD-1 lysed bacteria is 12/13. The YBD-1 showed best growth at 25–40°C, 0–0.25% (w/v) NaCl, and pH 6.5–7.5. YBD-1 significantly reduced the planktonic cells and biofilms of E.coli in co-culture compared to the E.coli group. Additionally, SEM analysis indicated that YBD-1 significantly reduced biofilm formation in E. coli. Furthermore, quantitative Real Time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed that the expression of the virulence genes fim and iroN and the genes pgaABC involved in biofilm formation went down significantly. We concluded that YBD-1 may have the potential to control bacterial growth and biofilm-associated bacterial illnesses.
Correlative multiphoton-STED microscopy of podocyte calcium levels and slit diaphragm ultrastructure in the renal glomerulus
Authors: Wiesner Eva , Binz-Lotter Julia , Hackl Agnes , Unnersjö-Jess David , Rutkowski Nelli , Benzing Thomas , Hackl Matthias J.
Published: June 2024

In recent years functional multiphoton (MP) imaging of vital mouse tissues and stimulation emission depletion (STED) imaging of optically cleared tissues allowed new insights into kidney biology. Here, we present a novel workflow where MP imaging of calcium signals can be combined with super-resolved STED imaging for morphological analysis of the slit diaphragm (SD) within the same glomerulus. Mice expressing the calcium indicator GCaMP3 in podocytes served as healthy controls or were challenged with two different doses of nephrotoxic serum (NTS). NTS induced glomerular damage in a dose dependent manner measured by shortening of SD length. In acute kidney slices (AKS) intracellular calcium levels increased upon disease but showed a high variation between glomeruli. We could not find a clear correlation between intracellular calcium levels and SD length in the same glomerulus. Remarkably, analysis of the SD morphology of glomeruli selected during MP calcium imaging revealed a higher percentage of completely disrupted SD architecture than estimated by STED imaging alone. Our novel co-imaging protocol is applicable to a broad range of research questions. It can be used with different tissues and is compatible with diverse reporters and target proteins.
Inferring fruit infestation prevalence from a combination of pre-harvest monitoring and consignment sampling data
Authors: Caley Peter , Gladish Daniel W. , Kingham Lloyd , van Klinken Rieks D.
Published: June 2024

International trade in horticultural produce happens under phytosanitary inspection and production protocols. Fruit inspection typically involves the sampling and inspection of either 600-pieces or 2% of packed product within a single consignment destined for export, with the purpose of certification (typically with 95% confidence) that the true infestation level within the consignment in question doesn’t exceed a pre-specified design prevalence. Sampling of multiple consignments from multiple production blocks in conjunction with pre-harvest monitoring for pests can be used to provide additional inference on the prevalence of infested fruit within an overall production system subject to similar protocols. Here we develop a hierarchical Bayesian model that combines in-field monitoring data with consignment sample inspection data to infer the prevalence of infested fruit in a production system. The results illustrate how infestation prevalence is influenced by the number of consignments inspected, the detection efficacy of consignment sampling, and in-field monitoring effort and sensitivity. Uncertainty in inspection performance, monitoring methods, and exposure of fruit to pests is accommodated using statistical priors within a Bayesian modelling framework. We demonstrate that pre-harvest surveillance with a sufficient density of traps and moderate detection sensitivity can provide 95% belief that the prevalence of infestation is below $$1 \times 10^{-6}$$

1
×

10

-
6

. In the absence of pre-harvest monitoring, it is still possible to gain high confidence in a very low prevalence of infestation ($$<1 \times 10^{-5}$$

<
1
×

10

-
5

) on the basis of multiple clean samples if the inspection sensitivity during consignment sampling is high and sufficient consignments are inspected. Our work illustrates the cumulative power of in-field surveillance and consignment sampling to update estimates of infestation prevalence.
Traveling wave solution and qualitative behavior of fractional stochastic Kraenkel–Manna–Merle equation in ferromagnetic materials
Authors: Luo Jie
Published: June 2024

The main purpose of this article is to investigate the qualitative behavior and traveling wave solutions of the fractional stochastic Kraenkel–Manna–Merle equations, which is commonly used to simulate the zero conductivity nonlinear propagation behavior of short waves in saturated ferromagnetic materials. Firstly, fractional stochastic Kraenkel–Manna–Merle equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations by using the traveling wave transformation. Secondly, the phase portraits, sensitivity analysis, and Poincaré sections of the two-dimensional dynamic system and its perturbation system of ordinary differential equations are drawn. Finally, the traveling wave solutions of fractional stochastic Kraenkel–Manna–Merle equations are obtained based on the analysis theory of planar dynamical system. Moreover, the obtained three-dimensional graphs of random solutions, two-dimensional graphs of random solutions, and three-dimensional graphs of deterministic solutions are drawn.
Gender differences in neck muscle activity during near-maximum forward head flexion while using smartphones with varied postures
Authors: Chen Yi-Lang , Chan You-Chun , Alexander Hans
Published: June 2024

Women frequently express heightened neck discomfort even though they exhibit smaller neck flexion (NF) during smartphone use. Differences in natural posture while using smartphones may result in varying muscle activation patterns between genders. However, no study focused on this issue. This study investigated the influence of gender on neck muscle activity and NF when using smartphones, ranging from slight (20°) to nearly maximal forward head flexion, across different postures. We analyzed smartphone usage patterns in 16 men and 16 women and examined these behaviors across different scenarios: standing, supported sitting, and unsupported sitting, at 20°, 30°, 40°, and the maximum head angles. During data collection, muscle activity was measured, expressed as a percentage of the maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC), in the cervical erector spinae (CES) and upper trapezius (UTZ), along with NF. Results show significant influences of gender, head angle, and posture on all measures, with notable interactions among these variables. Women displayed higher muscle activities in CES and UTZ, yet exhibited lesser NF, while using smartphones in both standing (12.3%MVC, 10.7% MVC, and 69.0°, respectively) and unsupported sitting (10.8%MVC, 12.3%MVC, and 71.8°, respectively) compared to men (standing: 9.5%MVC, 8.8%MVC, and 76.1°; unsupported sitting: 9.7%MVC, 10.8%MVC, and 76.1°). This study provides a potential rationale for gender-related disparities in injury outcomes, emphasizing that women experience higher neck and shoulder discomfort level, despite their smaller NF during smartphone use, as found in previous research. Additionally, the cervical flexion-relaxation phenomenon may occur when the head angle exceeded 40°. The near-maximum head angle during smartphone use might induce the cervical flexion-relaxation phenomenon, potentially aggravating neck issues. We recommend limiting smartphone usage postures that exceed the near-maximum head angle, as they are commonly adopted by individuals in the daily smartphone activities.
Manufacturing protocol and post processing of ultra-thin gas diffusion layer using advanced scanning techniques
Authors: Pourrahmani Hossein , Van Herle Jan
Published: June 2024

The typical commercial size of a Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) application is around 180 μm up to 290 μm. GDL facilitates the diffusion of reactants to the catalyst layers and liquid removal from the membrane to the flow field. In this regard, GDL should be a porous region with conductive materials as thin as possible to reduce the size and the costs. Lowering the thickness of the GDL also results in better performance of the stack since it increases the speed of reactants to reach the catalysts. However, the main obstacle is the formation of ultra-thin porous GDL, which can be also named as standalone microporous layer (MPL). The novelty of this study is the manufacturing process and production of ultra-thin porous GDL with carbon and Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as the main materials. The produced GDL has the thickness of 28.9 μm, which has been measured using microscope imaging. This novel GDL can be used as the conductive diffusive region inside the PEM fuel cells, Alkaline fuel cells, and the cathode of PEM and Alkaline electrolyzers. Additionally, the novel invention can be considered as a 2D membrane for carbon capture purposes after being functionalized.
Mechanical properties of low calcium alkali activated binder system under ambient curing conditions
Authors: Statkauskas Martynas , Vaičiukynienė Danutė , Grinys Audrius
Published: June 2024

These days, the construction industry is facing sustainability issues, leading to the selection of greener, low-carbon, alkali-activated materials. This study examines a low calcium alkali activated system composed of three constituents (ceramic brick, metakaolin waste, and phosphogypsum). The AAB compositions consist of the primary precursor, waste ceramic brick, which is increasingly (20–100 wt%) replaced with waste metakaolin. The alkaline solution was made of sodium hydroxide and water; dosage depended on the Na2O/Al2O3 ratio (1.00–1.36). The AAB specimens were inspected by using XRD (X-ray diffraction) and FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) methods for the evaluation of mineral composition, accompanied by SEM–EDS (scanning electron microscopy & energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) for the analysis of the microstructure. The compressive strength after 7, 28 and 90 days, along with water absorption and softening coefficient were determined. Also, mixture calorimetry was established. The results have shown that the initial materials are suitable for producing medium-strength alkali-activated binder under ambient temperature. The maximum compressive strength was reached by using the combination of 80% CBW and 20% MKW (13.9 and 21.2 MPa after 28 and 90 days respectively). The compressive strength development was linked with the formation N–A–S–H gel and faujasite type zeolite. A higher level of geopolymerization in composition with metakaolin waste led to lower compressive strength. Consequently, binding materials with low demand of high final and especially early compressive strength could be produced under ambient temperature curing, making them more sustainable.
Improved marine predators algorithm for engineering design optimization problems
Authors: Chun Ye , Hua Xu , Qi Chen , Yao Ye Xin
Published: June 2024

The Marine Predator Algorithm (MPA) has unique advantages as an important branch of population-based algorithms. However, it emerges more disadvantages gradually, such as traps to local optima, insufficient diversity, and premature convergence, when dealing with complex problems in practical industrial engineering design applications. In response to these limitations, this paper proposes a novel Improved Marine Predator Algorithm (IMPA). By introducing an adaptive weight adjustment strategy and a dynamic social learning mechanism, this study significantly improves the encounter frequency and efficiency between predators and preys in marine ecosystems. The performance of the IMPA was evaluated through benchmark functions, CEC2021 suite problems, and engineering design problems, including welded beam design, tension/compression spring design, pressure vessel design, and three-bar design. The results indicate that the IMPA has achieved significant success in the optimization process over other methods, exhibiting excellent performance in both solving optimal parameter solutions and optimizing objective function values. The IMPA performs well in terms of accuracy and robustness, which also proves its efficiency in successfully solving complex industrial engineering design problems.
The minimum mass ratio of W UMa-type contact binaries—a new calculation
Authors: Zhang Xu-Dong
Published: June 2024

A model is developed to establish the relationship between the critical gyration radius k of the primary component and the mass ratio (q) by considering the different dimensionless gyration radii of main-sequence stars with varying masses. The next step involves obtaining the low mass ratio limit ($${q_{\text{min}}} = 0.038 \sim 0.041$$

q
min

=
0.038
∼
0.041

for overcontact degree $$f = 0$$

f
=
0

~ 1) of W UMa-type contact binaries. Furthermore, the radial density distributions are estimated within the range of $$0.3 M_{\odot } \sim 4.0 M_{\odot }$$

0.3

M
⊙

∼
4.0

M
⊙

, based on the mass-radius relationship of main-sequence stars. Subsequently, the physical meaning of the minimum k value is proposed, which leads to an explanation for the cause of the minimum mass ratio. Finally, a stability criterion is proposed, which is based on both the mass ratio (q) and the total mass of the two components ($$M_{tot}$$

M

tot

).
High mortality associated with inappropriate initial antibiotic therapy in hematological malignancies with Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infections
Authors: Ma Zijun , Lai Chengcheng , Zhang Jun , Han Yuren , Xin Mengjie , Wang Jinghui , Wu Zhuanghao , Luo Yonggang
Published: June 2024

Bloodstream infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms such as Klebsiella pneumoniae are a significant challenge in managing hematological malignancies. This study aims to characterize the epidemiology of Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infections specifically in patients with hematological malignancies, delineate the patterns of initial antibiotic therapy, assess the prevalence of resistant strains, identify risk factors for these resistant strains, and evaluate factors influencing patient outcomes. A retrospective analysis was conducted at a single center from January 2017 to December 2020, focusing on 182 patients with hematological malignancies who developed Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infections. We compared the 30-day mortality rates between patients receiving appropriate and inappropriate antibiotic treatments, including the effectiveness of both single-drug and combination therapies. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and multivariate logistic and Cox regression were used to identify factors influencing mortality risk. The 30-day all-cause mortality rate was 30.2% for all patients. The 30-day all-cause mortality rates were 77.2% and 8.8% in patients who received inappropriate initial treatment and appropriate initial treatment (p < 0.001). Inappropriate initial treatment significantly influenced mortality and was a key predictor of 30-day mortality, along with septic shock and previous intensive care unit (ICU) stays. Patients with carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) bloodstream infections exhibited more severe clinical symptoms compared to the CSKP group. The study demonstrates a significant association between empirical carbapenem administration and the escalating prevalence of CRKP and multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae (MDR-KP) infections. Furthermore, the study identified inappropriate initial antibiotic therapy, septic shock, and ICU admission as independent risk factors for 30-day mortality.
Long-term endoscopic gastric mucosal changes up to 20 years after Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy
Authors: Iwata Eri , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Akimoto Yoshika , Hamada Mariko , Niikura Ryota , Nagata Naoyoshi , Yanagisawa Kyosuke , Itoi Takao , Kawai Takashi
Published: June 2024

Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy reduces the risk of gastric cancer. However, it is unclear whether the severity of risk factors for gastric cancer such as atrophy and intestinal metaplasia are reduced after eradication in the long term. We aimed to study long-term changes in endoscopic risk factors for gastric cancer up to 20 years post-eradication. The endoscopic severity of gastritis according to the Kyoto Classification of Gastritis in 167 patients was retrospectively evaluated over an average follow-up 15.7 years. A significant improvement in mean total gastric cancer risk score (4.36 ± 1.66 to 2.69 ± 1.07, p < 0.001), atrophy (1.73 ± 0.44 to 1.61 ± 0.49, p = 0.004), and diffuse redness (1.22 ± 0.79 to 0.02 ± 0.13, p < 0.001) was observed compared to baseline in the Eradication group. However, there was no change in the never infection and current infection groups. The frequency of map-like redness increased over time until 15 years (3.6% to 18.7%, p = 0.03). The Cancer group had significantly higher risk scores at all time points. Endoscopic atrophy significantly improved in eradicated patients over long-term, suggested that eradication is one of the key elements in gastric cancer prevention. Individualized surveillance strategies based on endoscopic gastritis severity before eradication may be important for those at risk of gastric cancer.
Identification of the health education targeted susceptible population of tuberculosis in Ningxia, Northwest China
Authors: Ma Ning , Chen Linlin , Ding Fan , Liu Xianglong , Li Jiangping , Zhao Yu
Published: June 2024

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) survey, as an effective measure tool, is of practical significance for identifying the susceptible population in high-incidence regions of tuberculosis (TB). We aim to identify the health education targeted susceptible population of TB and discuss the acting pathway of KAP in Ningxia. A multistage random sampling method was used to conduct a face-to-face questionnaire survey for residents. The latent class analysis (LCA) model was used to classify susceptible populations of TB, and the structural equation modeling (SEM) model was also employed to investigate the interaction mechanisms of KAP (mediation analysis). We further applied the ordered logistic regression model to explore the associated factors. A total of 973 residents were enrolled, 70.6% were male, aged from 16 to 89. The LCA analysis demonstrated that 3 categories of susceptible populations of TB ("overall good", "positive attitude" and "overall poor") have optimal goodness of fit (BIC = 7889.5, Entropy = 0.923). SEM model indicated that the attitude plays a significant mediation effect from knowledge to practice toward TB (an indirect effect of 0.038, and a direct effect of 0.138). The ordered logistic regression results found that age, sex, marital status, education level, occupation, family income, self-perceived health status, having a family member or friend with TB, and knowing the DOTS strategy were significantly associated with classifications of KAP level towards TB. Based on the LCA model, we accurately classified the susceptible population of TB into 3 groups with different degrees of KAP. We found that TB attitude plays a mediating role between knowledge and practice. Therefore, we should pay more attention and carry out targeted health education in the community to these populations with overall poor KAP towards TB, and develop effective strategies and measures to realize the End TB Plan.
Evolution and driving factors of inequality in CO2 emissions from agricultural energy consumption in China
Authors: Zhao Xiaojing , Li Xuke , Xi Yanling
Published: June 2024

The inequality in CO2 emissions from agricultural energy consumption is a major challenge for coordinating low-carbon agricultural development across regions in China. However, the evolutionary characteristics and driving factors of inequality in China’s agricultural energy-related CO2 emissions are poorly understood. In response, the Kaya–Theil model was adopted to examine the three potential factors influencing CO2 emission inequality in China’s agricultural energy consumption. The results revealed that, from 1997 to 2021, agricultural energy-related CO2 emissions per capita showed a significant upward trend, with prominent polarization and right-tailing phenomena. Overall, the inequality was on a downward trend, with the Theil index falling from 0.4109 in 1997 to 0.1957 in 2021. Meanwhile, the decomposition of the national inequality revealed that the within-group inequality declined from 0.3991 to 0.1634, which was greater than between-group inequality, based on zoning the 28 provinces into three grain production functional areas. As for the three kaya factors, the energy intensity contributed the most to the overall inequality, followed by the agricultural economic development and CO2 emission intensity. Based on these results, this study provided some potential strategies to reduce agricultural-related CO2 emissions.
Sex-specific transgenerational effects on murine thyroid gland imposed by ancestral exposure to neonicotinoid thiacloprid
Authors: Diba Lahmidi Mariam , Le Noc Morgane , Dali Ouzna , Kernanec Pierre-Yves , Merret Pierre-Etienne , Jaulin Christian , Smagulova Fatima
Published: June 2024

Neonicotinoids, a relatively new widely used class of insecticide is used in agriculture to control insect populations. We examined the capacity of ancestral exposure to the neonicotinoid thiacloprid (thia) to induce transgenerational effects on thyroid tissue. Pregnant outbred Swiss female mice were exposed to thia at embryonic days E6.5 to E15.5 using 0, 0.6, and 6 mg/kg/day doses. Thyroid paraffin sections were prepared for morphology analysis. We apply ELISA method to measure T4 and TSH levels, RT-qPCR for gene expression analysis, ChIP-qPCR techniques for sperm histone H3K4me3 analysis, and immunofluorescence microscopy and western blots for protein detection. We observed an alteration in the morphology of thyroids in both males and females in the F3 generation. We observed an increase in T4 hormone in F1 females and a significant T4 level decrease in F3 males. T4 changes in F1 females were associated with a TSH increase. We found that the amount of Iodothyronine Deiodinase 1 (DIO1) (an enzyme converting T4 to T3) was decreased in both F1 and F3 generations in female thyroids. GNAS protein which is important for thyroid function has increased in female thyroids. Gene expression analysis showed that the expression of genes encoding thyroid gland development, chromatin, biosynthesis and transport factors were affected in the thyroid gland in both sexes in F1 and F3. The analysis of sperm histone H3K4me3 showed that H3K4me3 occupancy at the Dio1 locus has decreased while Thyroglobulin (Tg) and Matrix Metallopeptidase 2 (Mmp2) genes have increased H3K4me3 occupancy in the sperm of F3 mice. Besides, DNA methylation analysis of our previously published datasets showed that, in the sperm of F1 and F3 thia-derived mice, several genes related to thyroid function show consistent alterations. Our data suggest that ancestral exposure to thiacloprid affects thyroid function not only in exposed but also in indirectly exposed F3 generation.
C-type natriuretic peptide/cGMP/FoxO3 signaling attenuates hyperproliferation of pericytes from patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Dabral Swati , Noh Minhee , Werner Franziska , Krebes Lisa , Völker Katharina , Maier Christopher , Aleksic Ivan , Novoyatleva Tatyana , Hadzic Stefan , Schermuly Ralph Theo , Perez Vinicio A. de Jesus , Kuhn Michaela
Published: June 2024

Pericyte dysfunction, with excessive migration, hyperproliferation, and differentiation into smooth muscle-like cells contributes to vascular remodeling in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). Augmented expression and action of growth factors trigger these pathological changes. Endogenous factors opposing such alterations are barely known. Here, we examine whether and how the endothelial hormone C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), signaling through the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) -producing guanylyl cyclase B (GC-B) receptor, attenuates the pericyte dysfunction observed in PAH. The results demonstrate that CNP/GC-B/cGMP signaling is preserved in lung pericytes from patients with PAH and prevents their growth factor-induced proliferation, migration, and transdifferentiation. The anti-proliferative effect of CNP is mediated by cGMP-dependent protein kinase I and inhibition of the Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway, ultimately leading to the nuclear stabilization and activation of the Forkhead Box O 3 (FoxO3) transcription factor. Augmentation of the CNP/GC-B/cGMP/FoxO3 signaling pathway might be a target for novel therapeutics in the field of PAH.
Prevalence of ST1049-KL5 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with a blaKPC-2 and blaNDM-1 co-carrying hypertransmissible IncM1 plasmid
Authors: Liu Hongmao , Xiang Yating , Xiong Mengyuan , Xiao Xiao , Zhou Junying , Tian Hongpan , Chen Qingsong , Li Yirong
Published: June 2024

Infection caused by KPC and NDM carbapenemases co-producingKlebsiella pneumoniae(KPC_NDM_CRKP) poses serious public health concerns. Here, we elucidate the prevalence of a hypertransmissible lncM1 plasmid, pKPC_NDM, co-carryingblaKPC-2andblaNDM-1genes in sequence type 1049 K_locus 5 (ST1049-KL5) KPC_NDM_CRKP isolates. Genetic and clonal relatedness analyses using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, single nucleotide polymorphism analysis and core genome multilocus sequence typing suggested clonal dissemination of ST1049-KL5 KPC_NDM_CRKP strains in our hospital. Whole genome sequencing identified an identical 76,517 bp-blaKPC-2andblaNDM-1genes co-carrying IncM1 plasmid pKPC_NDM and a pLVPK-like hypervirulent plasmid in all ST1049-KL5 KPC_NDM_CRKP isolates. pKPC_NDM shared 100% identity with a previously sequenced plasmid CRKP35_unnamed4, demonstrating high transferability in conjugation assay, with conjugation frequencies reaching 10-4and 10-5inEscherichia coliandK. pneumoniaerecipients, respectively. It also maintained favorable stability and flexible compatibility, with retention rates exceeding 80% after 10 days of continuous passage, and could be compatible with pre-existingblaKPC- orblaNDM-carrying plasmids in recipient strains. This study summarizes the characteristics of KPC_NDM_CRKP outbreaks and highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance and infection control strategies to address the challenges posed by ST1049K. pneumoniaestrains.
Bismuth pyramid formation during solidification of eutectic tin-bismuth alloy using 4D X-ray microtomography
Authors: Luktuke Amey , Kastengren Alan L. , Nikitin Viktor , Torbati-Sarraf Hamidreza , Chawla Nikhilesh
Published: June 2024

Next-generation electronic packaging strategies like heterogeneous integration packaging necessitate low melting temperature solder alloys. The Sn-58Bi alloy is notable candidate for its low melting point, but the development of coarse Bi particles during solidification adversely affects the joint’s mechanical properties. The mechanisms determining the morphology of these Bi particles remain unexplored. Here, we employ a 4D investigation of the solder solidification process. We observe the growth of novel pyramidal morphology of precipitating Bi in-situ during the solidification. We decipher the growth mechanisms that lead to the pyramidal shape of Bi crystals. The crystallographic nature of the pyramid facets and the inaccuracies in the Jackson factor prediction of interface stability for semimetals is investigated in detail. An alternative way of analyzing the atomic configuration for a stable solid-liquid interface is proposed. Finally, the effect of grain boundary defect formation on the growth morphology of Bi crystals is studied.
Early detection of dementia with default-mode network effective connectivity
Authors: Ereira Sam , Waters Sheena , Razi Adeel , Marshall Charles R.
Published: June 2024

Altered functional connectivity precedes structural brain changes and symptoms in dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the largest contributor to dementia at the population level, and disrupts functional connectivity in the brain’s default-mode network (DMN). We investigated whether a neurobiological model of DMN effective connectivity could predict a future dementia diagnosis at the single-participant level. We applied spectral dynamic causal modeling to resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data in a nested case–control group from the UK Biobank, including 81 undiagnosed individuals who developed dementia up to nine years after imaging, and 1,030 matched controls. Dysconnectivity predicted both future dementia incidence (AUC = 0.82) and time to diagnosis (R = 0.53), outperforming models based on brain structure and functional connectivity. We also evaluated associations between DMN dysconnectivity and major risk factors for dementia, revealing strong relationships with polygenic risk for Alzheimer’s disease and social isolation. Neurobiological models of effective connectivity may facilitate early detection of dementia at population level, supporting rational deployment of targeted dementia-prevention strategies.
Sterilization efficacy of a homemade UV lamp system on ceramic and porcelain tiles
Authors: Kwon Dokyung , Jo Yongju , Sohn Youngku , Kim Jeongkwon
Published: June 2024

We investigated the sterilization efficiency of a homemade UV lamp on various ceramic and porcelain tiles at different lamp-to-tile distances.
Lab-made CO2 laser-engraved electrochemical sensors for ivermectin determination
Authors: Ferreira Dianderson C. M. , Inoque Nélio I. G. , Tanaka Auro Atsushi , Dantas Luiza M. F. , Muñoz Rodrigo A. A. , da Silva Iranaldo S.
Published: June 2024

The ivermectin (IVM), as a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug, was widely prescribed to treat COVID-19 during the pandemic, despite lacking proven efficacy in combating this disease.
Enhanced label-free detection of proteins on Au nanoparticle micropatterns for surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Hassan Ayaz , de Sousa Daniel S. , Bertaglia Thiago , Crespilho Frank N.
Published: June 2024

An average of 7.5 times enhancement in the IR absorption signal is observed for cytochrome c adsorbed on gold nanoparticle micropatterns as compared to a bare infrared surface in surface enhanced infrared spectroscopy.
Cooperative defect engineering and ligand modification in UiO-66 to achieve high proton conductivity
Authors: Li Xiao-Min , Jia Junchao , Zhao Mingyang , Liu Dongbo , Gao Junkuo , Lan Ya-Qian
Published: June 2024

D-UiO-66-NIM with high proton conductivity of 2.15 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 70 °C and 100% RH has been synthesized through the dual strategy of defect engineering and ligand modification.
A π-extended β-diketiminate ligand via a templated Scholl approach
Authors: Killian Lars , Lutz Martin , Thevenon Arnaud
Published: June 2024

We report a novel redox active β-diketiminate ligand embedded within a 24-electron π-system, prepared using a templated Scholl oxidation strategy.
Electrochemical and microstructural analysis of LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 cathode composites prepared using the SEED method
Authors: Hikima Kazuhiro , Hamasaki Yosuke , Takahashi Masayo , Matsuda Reiko , Muto Hiroyuki , Matsuda Atsunori
Published: June 2024

The all-solid-state battery with the cathode composite fabricated by the SEED method demonstrated higher cycle stability, and cross-sectional SEM-EDX images suggest that the solid electrolyte was more uniformly distributed in the cathode composite prepared using the SEED method.
Topological phases, local magnetic moments, and spin polarization triggered by C558-line defects in armchair graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Yang Ning-Jing , Guo Wen-Ti , Yang Hai , Huang Zhigao , Zhang Jian-Min
Published: June 2024

The topological and magnetic properties induced by topological defects in graphene have attracted attention.
A mechanochemically synthesized Schiff-base engineered 2D mixed-linker MOF for CO2 capture and cationic dye removal
Authors: Patel Unnati , Parmar Bhavesh , Singh Manpreet , Dadhania Abhishek , Suresh Eringathodi
Published: June 2024

Versatile synthetic protocols and characterization of a functionally (–OH; –CONH–) decorated mixed-ligand Cd(ii)-based 2D MOF (ADES-7) and its application for CO2 capture and reversible adsorptive removal of cationic dyes have been investigated.
A high-performance C@Na5V12O32 nanowire electrode derived from the reconstruction of carbon quantum dots
Authors: Zhang Zhengying , Fang Dong , Yi Jianhong , Yang Hua , Liu Jian , Liu Feng , Khamidov Anvar , Ruzimuradov Olim
Published: June 2024

This article uses an in-situ sealing strategy to obtain a lithium-ion battery electrode covered with a carbon film and formed by reconstructing carbon quantum dots (CDs) onto Na5V12O32 (NVO) nanowires.
Room temperature hydrogen production via electro-dehydrogenation of amines into nitriles: advancements in liquid organic hydrogen carriers
Authors: Guenani Nihal , Solera-Rojas Jose , Carvajal David , Mejuto Carmen , Mollar-Cuni Andrés , Guerrero Antonio , Fabregat-Santiago Francisco , Mata José A. , Mas-Marzá Elena
Published: June 2024

Enhancing liquid organic hydrogen carrier performance: efficient room temperature hydrogen generation from amines via electro-dehydrogenation.
Spraying amorphous carbon coated zinc to prepare powder-based anodes for long-life zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Tang Jiahao , Cao Jiale , Jiang Yunxuan , Gou Siying , Yao Ruiqi , Li Yingqi , Liu Bo-Tian
Published: June 2024

Amorphous carbon coated zinc powder based anode offers better reaction kinetics and lower mass compared to zinc foils, which significantly improves the reversible properties of the zinc plating/stripping and overall energy density of the devices.
Spike trains in PANI-proteinoid nanomaterials with different light pulse rates
Authors: Mougkogiannis Panagiotis , Adamatzky Andrew
Published: June 2024

Light-sensitive PANI-proteinoid nanofibers demonstrate the ability to mimic biological neural networks, enabling tunable information encoding and processing.
Au nanoparticle-catalyzed double hydrosilylation of nitriles by diethylsilane
Authors: Karapanou Maria Ioanna , Malliotaki Dimitra , Stratakis Manolis
Published: June 2024

The Au/TiO2-catalysed reaction between Et2SiH2 and nitriles proceeds smoothly providing double hydrosilylation adducts, which are deprotected with HCl/Et2O to yield the hydrochloric salts of the corresponding amines in very good to excellent yields.
Halogenation of aromatic compounds with N-halosuccinimides (NXS) catalysed by d-camphorsulfonic acid-BiCl3
Authors: Tanemura Kiyoshi
Published: June 2024

Aromatic halogenation catalysed by 0.5–10 mol% of CSA–BiCl3 with NXS was carried out without N2 atmosphere.
Correction: Efficient amidation of weak amines: synthesis, chiral separation by SFC, and antimicrobial activity of N-(9,10-dioxo-9,10-dihydroanthracen-1-yl)carboxamide
Authors: Asokan Kathiravan , Zahir Hussain A. , Ilangovan Andivelu
Published: June 2024

Correction for ‘Efficient amidation of weak amines: synthesis, chiral separation by SFC, and antimicrobial activity of N-(9,10-dioxo-9,10-dihydroanthracen-1-yl) carboxamide’ by Kathiravan Asokan et al., Org. Biomol. Chem., 2024, 22, 309–319, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3OB01774E.
MMSSC-Net: multi-stage sequence cognitive networks for drug molecule recognition
Authors: Zhang Dehai , Zhao Di , Wang Zhengwu , Li Junhui , Li Jin
Published: June 2024

In the growing body of scientific literature, the structure and information of drugs are usually represented in two-dimensional vector graphics.
Correction: Polydiacetylene-based colorimetric and fluorometric sensors for lead ion recognition
Authors: Chen Xipeng , Li Yang , Yang Yalin , Dong Yuchuan , Guo Jinwen , Chen Shu-Wei , Wang Jinyi
Published: June 2024

Correction for ‘Polydiacetylene-based colorimetric and fluorometric sensors for lead ion recognition’ by Xipeng Chen et al., RSC Adv., 2022, 12, 22210–22218, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2RA03435B.
Metal-detection based techniques and their applications in metallobiology
Authors: Zhou Ying , Li Hongyan , Tse Eric , Sun Hongzhe
Published: June 2024

This perspective summarizes the latest progress in advanced metal-detection based techniques, along with examples of their successful applications as drivers for novel insights for elucidating the roles of metals in biology and medicine.
Understanding β-strand mediated protein–protein interactions: tuning binding behaviour of intrinsically disordered sequences by backbone modification
Authors: Cawood Emma E. , Baker Emily , Edwards Thomas A. , Woolfson Derek N. , Karamanos Theodoros K. , Wilson Andrew J.
Published: June 2024

Systematic backbone N-methylation of a SIM peptide results in faster, tighter binging to SUMO driven by a reduced entropy of activation; this opens new opportunities to develop inhibitors of β-strand mediated protein–protein interactions.
A New Method for Documenting Sign Language Productions in Schools
Authors: West Erin , Dettman Shani
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

There are well-established guidelines for the recording, transcription, and analysis of spontaneous oral language samples by researchers, educators, and speech pathologists. In contrast, there is presently no consensus regarding methods for the written documentation of sign language samples. The Handshape Analysis Recording Tool (HART) is an innovative method for documenting and analyzing word level samples of signed languages in real time. Fluent sign language users can document the expressive sign productions of children to gather data on sign use and accuracy.

Method:

The HART was developed to document children's productions in Australian Sign Language (Auslan) in a bilingual–bicultural educational program for the Deaf in Australia. This written method was piloted with a group of fluent signing Deaf educational staff in 2014–2016, then used in 2022–2023 with a group of fluent signing professionals to examine inter- and intrarater reliability when coding parameters of sign accuracy.

Results:

Interrater reliability measured by Gwet's Agreement Coefficient, was “good” to “very good” across the four phonological parameters that are components of every sign: location, movement, handshape, and orientation.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study indicate that the HART can be a reliable tool for coding the accuracy of location, orientation, movement, and handshape parameters of Auslan phonology when used by professionals fluent in Auslan. The HART can be utilized with any sign language to gather word level sign language samples in a written form and document the phonological accuracy of signed productions.
Quasars as standard candles
Authors: Trefoloni Bartolomeo , Lusso Elisabeta , Nardini Emanuele , Risaliti Guido , Marconi Alessandro , Bargiacchi Giada , Sacchi Andrea , Pietrini Paola , Signorini Matilde
Published: June 2024

A sample of quasars has been recently assembled to investigate the non-linear relation between their monochromatic luminosities at 2500 Å and 2 keV and to exploit quasars as a new class of ‘standardized candles’. The use of this technique for cosmological purposes relies on the non-evolution with redshift of the UV-optical spectral properties of quasars, as well as on the absence of possible contaminants such as dust extinction and host galaxy contribution. We address these possible issues by analysing the spectral properties of our cosmological quasar sample. We produced composite spectra in different bins of redshift and accretion parameters (black hole mass, bolometric luminosity), to investigate any possible evolution of the spectral properties of the continuum of the composites with these parameters. We found a remarkable similarity amongst the various stacked spectra. Apart from the well known evolution of the emission lines with luminosity (i.e. the Baldwin effect) and black hole mass (i.e. the virial relation), the overall shape of the continuum, produced by the accretion disc, does not show any statistically significant trend with black-hole mass (MBH), bolometric luminosity (Lbol), or redshift (z). The composite spectrum of our quasar sample is consistent with negligible levels of both intrinsic reddening (with a colour excess E(B − V)≲0.01) and host galaxy emission (less than 10%) in the optical. We tested whether unaccounted dust extinction could explain the discrepancy between our cosmographic fit of the Hubble–Lemaître diagram and the concordance ΛCDM model. The average colour excess required to solve the tension should increase with redshift up to unphysically high values (E(B − V)≃0.1 at z > 3) that would imply that the intrinsic emission of quasars is much bluer and more luminous than ever reported in observed spectra. The similarity of quasar spectra across the parameter space excludes a significant evolution of the average continuum properties with any of the explored parameters, confirming the reliability of our sample for cosmological applications. Lastly, dust reddening cannot account for the observed tension between the Hubble–Lemaître diagram of quasars and the ΛCDM model.