bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying novel mechanisms of biallelic TP53 loss refines poor outcome for patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Liu Enze , Sudha Parvathi , Becker Nathan , Jaouadi Oumaima , Suvannasankha Attaya , Lee Kelvin , Abonour Rafat , Abu Zaid Mohammad , Walker Brian A.
Published: September 2023

Biallelic TP53 inactivation is the most important high-risk factor associated with poor survival in multiple myeloma. Classical biallelic TP53 inactivation has been defined as simultaneous mutation and copy number loss in most studies; however, numerous studies have demonstrated that other factors could lead to the inactivation of TP53. Here, we hypothesized that novel biallelic TP53 inactivated samples existed in the multiple myeloma population. A random forest regression model that exploited an expression signature of 16 differentially expressed genes between classical biallelic TP53 and TP53 wild-type samples was subsequently established and used to identify novel biallelic TP53 samples from monoallelic TP53 groups. The model reflected high accuracy and robust performance in newly diagnosed relapsed and refractory populations. Patient survival of classical and novel biallelic TP53 samples was consistently much worse than those with mono-allelic or wild-type TP53 status. We also demonstrated that some predicted biallelic TP53 samples simultaneously had copy number loss and aberrant splicing, resulting in overexpression of high-risk transcript variants, leading to biallelic inactivation. We discovered that splice site mutation and overexpression of the splicing factor MED18 were reasons for aberrant splicing. Taken together, our study unveiled the complex transcriptome of TP53, some of which might benefit future studies targeting abnormal TP53.
tgCRISPRi: efficient gene knock-down using truncated gRNAs and catalytically active Cas9
Authors: Auradkar Ankush , Guichard Annabel , Kaduwal Saluja , Sneider Marketta , Bier Ethan
Published: September 2023

CRISPR-interference (CRISPRi), a highly effective method for silencing genes in mammalian cells, employs an enzymatically dead form of Cas9 (dCas9) complexed with one or more guide RNAs (gRNAs) with 20 nucleotides (nt) of complementarity to transcription initiation sites of target genes. Such gRNA/dCas9 complexes bind to DNA, impeding transcription of the targeted locus. Here, we present an alternative gene-suppression strategy using active Cas9 complexed with truncated gRNAs (tgRNAs). Cas9/tgRNA complexes bind to specific target sites without triggering DNA cleavage. When targeted near transcriptional start sites, these short 14–15 nts tgRNAs efficiently repress expression of several target genes throughout somatic tissues in Drosophila melanogaster without generating any detectable target site mutations. tgRNAs also can activate target gene expression when complexed with a Cas9-VPR fusion protein or modulate enhancer activity, and can be incorporated into a gene-drive, wherein a traditional gRNA sustains drive while a tgRNA inhibits target gene expression.
Modelling the dynamics of acute and chronic hepatitis B with optimal control
Authors: Khan Tahir , Rihan Fathalla A. , Ahmad Hijaz
Published: September 2023

This article examines hepatitis B dynamics under distinct infection phases and multiple transmissions. We formulate the epidemic problem based on the characteristics of the disease. It is shown that the epidemiological model is mathematically and biologically meaningful of its well-posedness (positivity, boundedness, and biologically feasible region). The reproductive number is then calculated to find the equilibria and the stability analysis of the epidemic model is performed. A backward bifurcation is also investigated in the proposed epidemic problem. With the help of two control measures (treatment and vaccination), we develop control strategies to minimize the infected population (acute and chronic). To solve the proposed control problem, we utilize Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle. Some simulations are conducted to illustrate the investigation of the analytical work and the effect of control analysis.
Measurement device-independent quantum key distribution with vector vortex modes under diverse weather conditions
Authors: Sekga Comfort , Mafu Mhlambululi
Published: September 2023

Most quantum key distribution schemes exploiting orbital angular momentum-carrying optical beams are based on conventional set-ups, opening up the possibility of detector side-channel attacks. These optical beams also suffer from spatial aberrations due to atmospheric turbulence and unfavorable weather conditions. Consequently, we introduce a measurement device-independent quantum key distribution implemented with vector vortex modes. We study the transmission of vector vortex and scalar beams through a turbulent atmospheric link under diverse weather conditions such as rain or haze. We demonstrate that a maximum secure key transmission distance of 178 km can be achieved under clear conditions by utilizing the vector vortex beams, which have been mainly ignored in the literature. When raindrops have a diameter of 6 mm and fog particles have a radius of 0.5 $$\upmu$$
μ
m, the signals can reach 152 km and 160 km, respectively. Since these distances are comparable, this work sheds light into the feasibility of implementing measurement device-independent quantum key distribution using vector vortex modes under diverse weather conditions. Most significantly, this opens the door to practical secure quantum communications.
Synthesis of novel antibacterial nanocomposite CuO/Ag-modified zeolite for removal of MB dye
Authors: Yahya Nabil A. A. , Samir O. M. , Al-Ariki S. , Ahmed Amira A. M. , Swillam Mohamed A.
Published: September 2023

Novel CuO/Ag nanocomposites added zeolite (CAZ) were successfully fabricated, and their effectiveness as an antibacterial on S. aureus and MB removal was evaluated. EDX, XRD, and FTIR confirm the presence of the elemental compositions of CAZ. Friable CuO nanorods (10–70 nm in diameter) existed on the surface of the zeolite. Pure zeolite had a higher band gap (5.433 eV) and lower MB removal efficiency than CAZ. The adsorption method by CAZ was more effective at removing MB than photodegradation. 0.10 CAZ had the highest removal effectiveness (~ 99%) and adsorption capacity (~ 70.4 mg g−1) of MB. The inhibitory zone diameter for 0.005 CAZ against S. aureus was 20 mm, while 0.01 CAZ had a diameter of 17 mm. Azithromycin, ceftriaxone, and erythromycin antibiotics demonstrated lower or no efficacy against S. aureus than CAZ. Significant antibacterial activities and wastewater treatment were achieved by CAZ. The combination of photodegradation and adsorption enhanced pollutant removal. It will be interesting to study further the optimal molar ratio for MB removal (0.10 CAZ) in future investigations.
Complete chloroplast genome of Lens lamottei reveals intraspecies variation among with Lens culinaris
Authors: Kurt Selda , Kaymaz Yasin , Ateş Duygu , Tanyolaç Muhammed Bahattin
Published: September 2023

Lens lamottei is a member of the Fabaceae family and the second gene pool of the genus Lens. The environmental factors that drove the divergence among wild and cultivated species have been studied extensively. Recent research has focused on genomic signatures associated with various phenotypes with the acceleration of next-generation techniques in molecular profiling. Therefore, in this study, we provide the complete sequence of the chloroplast genome sequence in the wild Lens species L. lamottei with a deep coverage of 713 × next-generation sequencing (NGS) data for the first time. Compared to the cultivated species, Lens culinaris, we identified synonymous, and nonsynonymous changes in the protein-coding regions of the genes ndhB, ndhF, ndhH, petA, rpoA, rpoC2, rps3, and ycf2 in L. lamottei. Phylogenetic analysis of chloroplast genomes of various plants under Leguminosae revealed that L. lamottei and L. culinaris are closest to one another than to other species. The complete chloroplast genome of L. lamottei also allowed us to reanalyze previously published transcriptomic data, which showed high levels of gene expression for ATP-synthase, rubisco, and photosystem genes. Overall, this study provides a deeper insight into the diversity of Lens species and the agricultural importance of these plants through their chloroplast genomes.
Unveiling the dynamics of emotions in society through an analysis of online social network conversations
Authors: Sener Begum , Akpinar Ezgi , Ataman M. Berk
Published: September 2023

Social networks can provide insights into the emotions expressed by a society. However, the dynamic nature of emotions presents a significant challenge for policymakers, politicians, and communication professionals who seek to understand and respond to changes in emotions over time. To address this challenge, this paper investigates the frequency, duration, and transition of 24 distinct emotions over a 2-year period, analyzing more than 5 million tweets. The study shows that emotions with lower valence but higher dominance and/or arousal are more prevalent in online social networks. Emotions with higher valence and arousal tend to last longer, while dominant emotions tend to have shorter durations. Emotions occupying the conversations predominantly inhibit others with similar valence and dominance, and higher arousal. Over a month, emotions with similar valences tend to prevail in online social network conversations.
Wireless pressure insoles for measuring ground reaction forces and trajectories of the centre of pressure during functional activities
Authors: Cudejko T. , Button K. , Al-Amri M.
Published: September 2023

Wireless pressure insoles may enable the assessment of movement biomechanics in a real-world setting, and thus play an important role in the recommendation of clinical management, but they are not yet a gold standard due to the unknown accuracy and reliability with respect to different functional activities. Here, we compare novel wireless pressure insoles with force plates and examine the test–retest reliability of the insoles for measuring vertical ground reaction forces (vGRFs) and trajectories of the center of pressure (COP). In this observational study, healthy adults underwent two data collection sessions during one day. The Bland–Altman analysis was used to compare the outcomes measured with the two instruments during squats, jumps, and the sit-to-stand test. Test–retest reliability was assessed by the interclass correlation coefficient and the standard error of measurement for the outcomes during squats, jumps, walking, and stair ambulation. Trajectories of the COP in the anterior–posterior direction were comparable between the two systems during all activities. The insoles consistently measured shorter trajectories of the COP in the medial–lateral direction (except jumps) and lower vGRFs than the force plates. Test–retest reliability of the insoles was fair to high or excellent for all outcomes during all activities. In conclusion, the insoles provide reliable measures of vGRFs and trajectories of the COP during multiple functional activities in healthy adults. Although the insoles do not produce identical results to the force plate, the qualitative similarity and consistency between the two systems confirm the insoles can be used to measure these outcomes, based on the purpose and accuracy required.
Dust mitigation by a water droplet in between movable and modified wetting states surfaces
Authors: Hassan Ghassan , Abubakar Abba Abdulhamid , Sami Yilbas Bekir , Al-Sharafi Abdullah , Al-Qahtani Hussain
Published: September 2023

A novel approach for mitigating environmental dust from hydrophobic surfaces using a water droplet is presented. A sessile droplet is sandwiched between two parallel plates, one of which is moveable and hydrophilic while the other is stationary and hydrophobic. Investigations are conducted into how plate spacing affects the dust mitigation rate and the droplet's level motion. The high-speed camera analyzes the droplet motion for various plate spacing, dusty regions, and droplet sizes. In a controlled laboratory setting, the movement of fluid and dust particles inside a droplet is simulated. The results showed that when a droplet is still, it effectively reduces dust. The droplet meniscus expands by decreasing the gap between the droplet and the surface, increasing the dust removal rate. While the Magdeburg force and surface tension influence the droplet's adhesion to a hydrophobic surface, surface tension remains the primary factor affecting droplet pinning on a hydrophilic plate, more so than pinning on a dusty hydrophobic surface. When compressing, a current is created in the droplet fluid, greatly accelerating the rate at which dust is removed from the hydrophobic surface. We also move a dangling droplet over a dirty surface to evaluate its cleaning effectiveness and find that a 60 µL droplet has a 97% cleaning effectiveness and can remove dust from up to 450 mm2 of surface area. Our study provides insight into the unique method of removing dust from active surfaces and sheds light on droplet pinning forces generated by the Magdeburg effect in nano-cavities during vertical and horizontal movement.
A proof-of-concept study of vicarious extinction learning and autonomic synchrony in parent–child dyads and posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Heyn Sara A. , George Grace , Hamm Emily , Olson Christy , Harari Julia H. , Marin Marie-France , Milad Mohammed R. , Herringa Ryan J.
Published: September 2023

Though threat-extinction models continue to inform scientific study of traumatic stress, knowledge of learning and extinction as mechanisms linking exposure to psychopathology remains critically limited among youth. This proof-of-concept study advances the study of threat-extinction in youth by determining feasibility of electrodermal stimulation (EDS), vicarious extinction learning via their parent, and social threat learning in pediatric PTSD (pPTSD). Typically developing (TD) and PTSD-diagnosed youth in 45 mother–child dyads completed an extinction learning paradigm. The use of EDS was first investigated in a cohort of TD youth (n = 20) using a 2-day paradigm without vicarious extinction, while direct (for TD and pPTSD) and vicarious (for pPTSD) extinction were investigated in a 3-day paradigm (n = 25). Threat acquisition and extinction were monitored using skin-conductance response (SCR) and behavioral expectations of EDS. Using Bayesian modeling to accommodate this pilot sample, our results demonstrate: (1) EDS-conditioning to be highly feasible and well-tolerated across TD and trauma-exposed youth, (2) Successful direct and vicarious extinction learning in trauma-exposed youth, and (3) PTSD-associated patterns in extinction learning and physiological synchrony between parent–child dyads. In summary, these novel approaches have the potential to advance translational studies in the mechanistic understanding of parent–child transmission of risk and youth psychopathology.
Accelerated wound healing induced by spinach extract in experimental model diabetic rats with streptozotocin
Authors: Rahati Sara , Kamalinezhad Mohammad , Ebrahimi Abdolali , Eshraghian Mohammadreza , Pishva Hamideh
Published: September 2023

Patients with diabetes often have difficult-to-heal wounds. Spinacia oleracea extract comprises anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative compounds; this research, therefore, studied the impact of Spinacia oleracea extracts on ulcer regeneration. This study was conducted on 72 adult Wistar rats (200$$\pm$$±20 g). They were randomly divided into six groups of twelve. A: Diabetic group receiving normal saline. B: Non-diabetic group receiving normal saline. C: Diabetic group receiving spinach aqueous extract. D: Diabetic group receiving spinach alcoholic extract. E: preventive group that received aqueous extract for 2 months. F: preventive group that received alcoholic extract for 2 months. Ulcer regeneration, vascular endothelium growth factor, blood sugar, and weight changes were measured on days 3, 7, 14, 21, and 30. Macroscopic investigation of the wounds non-diabetic control group, diabetic group, as well as spinach aqueous and alcoholic extract groups, were compared and there were significant changes (P < 0.05). Pathologic examination in the spinach aqueous and alcoholic extract groups, and nondiabetic group than in the diabetic group revealed significant advances (P <  0.05). On the third and seventh days, Vascular endothelium growth factor detected significant differences between groups (P < 0.05). Results indicate that, in regenerating diabetic ulcers, Spinacia oleracea may be effective. It influences the ulcer structure and speed.
Bridging geographical disparities across 368 townships with healthcare system and socioeconomic factors in Taiwan
Authors: Hsieh Chia-Ling , Chung Chia-Yu , Chen Hsin-Yu , Shieh Shwn-Huey , Hsieh Ming-Shun , Hsieh Vivian Chia-Rong
Published: September 2023

A universal health insurance program such as the National Health Insurance in Taiwan offers a wide coverage and increased access to healthcare services. Despite its ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility, differences in health for people living in urban and resource-deprived areas remain substantial. To investigate the longitudinal impact of the healthcare system and other potential structural drivers such as education and economic development on geographical disparities in health, we designed a panel study with longitudinal open secondary data, covering all 368 townships in Taiwan between 2013 and 2017. Our findings indicated higher mortality rates in the mountainous and rural areas near the east and south regions of the island in both years. Multivariate analyses showed an increase in the density of primary care physicians (PCP) was associated with lower all-cause mortality (β = − 0.72, p < 0.0001) and cardiovascular disease mortality (β = − 0.41, p < 0.0001). Effect of PCP is evident, but merely focusing on access to healthcare is still not enough. Additional measures are warranted to address the health disparities existing between urban and underprivileged areas.
Bacillus velezensis DSM 33864 reduces Clostridioides difficile colonization without disturbing commensal gut microbiota composition
Authors: Larsen Ida Søgaard , Chenaux Megan , Collins Fergus W. J. , Mandic Ana , Hansen Lea B. S. , Lauridsen Caroline A. S. , Haller Rune F. , Elvig-Jørgensen Signe , Horwell Ed , Christiansen Jeanett , Silva Ana , Vehreschild Maria J. G. T. , Cutting Simon M. , Roggenbuck-Wedemeyer Michael , Kristensen Nanna Ny
Published: September 2023

Up to 25% of the US population harbor Clostridioides difficile in the gut. Following antibiotic disruption of the gut microbiota, C. difficile can act as an opportunistic pathogen and induce potentially lethal infections. Consequently, reducing the colonization of C. difficile in at-risk populations is warranted, prompting us to identify and characterize a probiotic candidate specifically targeting C. difficile colonization. We identified Bacillus velezensis DSM 33864 as a promising strain to reduce C. difficile levels in vitro. We further investigated the effects of B. velezensis DSM 33864 in an assay including human fecal medium and in healthy or clindamycin-treated mouse models of C. difficile colonization. The addition of B. velezensis DSM 33864 to human fecal samples was shown to reduce the colonization of C. difficile in vitro. This was supported in vivo where orally administered B. velezensis DSM 33864 spores reduced C. difficile levels in clindamycin-treated mice. The commensal microbiota composition or post-antibiotic reconstitution was not impacted by B. velezensis DSM 33864 in human fecal samples, short-, or long-term administration in mice. In conclusion, oral administration of B. velezensis DSM 33864 specifically reduced C. difficile colonization in vitro and in vivo without adversely impacting the commensal gut microbiota composition.
A randomized controlled simulation trial comparing video-assisted with telephone-assisted and unassisted cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed by non-healthcare university students
Authors: Szöllősi Vivien , Horváth Balázs , Németh Dániel , Bánfai-Csonka Henrietta , Betlehem József , Bánfai Bálint
Published: September 2023

Our randomized controlled simulation study aimed to compare the CPR quality, time-related factors, attitude and self-assessment of non-healthcare university students (aged 18–25) compared video-assisted (V-CPR, n = 50) with telephone-assisted (T-CPR, n = 49) and unassisted (U-CPR, n = 48) CPR in a simulation setting. Regarding to chest compression depth, no difference was found between the three groups (p = 0.065): 41.8 mm, SD = 9.9 in the V-CPR; 35.9 mm, SD = 11.6 in the T-CPR; and 39.4 mm, SD = 15.6 in the U-CPR group. The mean chest compression rate was the best in the V-CPR group (100.9 min−1, SD = 17.1) which was superior to the T-CPR (82.4 min−1, SD = 35.4; p = 0.005), and the U-CPR (84.2 min−1, SD = 30.6; p = 0.013) groups. The overall proportion of correct hand position was the highest in the V-CPR group (48, 96%), compared to the T-CPR (28, 57.1%; p = 0.001), and the U-CPR (34, 70.8%; p = 0.001) groups. V-CPR led to a delay in the time to the first chest compression compared with the U-CPR group (77.5 s, SD = 19.2 vs. 31.3 s, SD = 13.3, p < 0.001). Although V-CPR technology holds the potential to improve overall CPR quality, the importance of appropriate chest compression depth should be emphasized in training for laypeople and dispatchers, as well. Our study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05639868, 06/12/2022).
Age- and trait-dependent breeding responses to environmental variation in a short-lived songbird
Authors: Martyka Rafał , Arct Aneta , Kotowska Dorota , Gustafsson Lars
Published: September 2023

Breeding responses of organisms to environmental changes may profoundly depend on an individual’s age, as an age-environment interaction may be expected to affect the expression of reproductive traits. However, little is known about how this interaction affects short-lived species that experience various environmental conditions in adulthood. Here, we used a 32-year dataset from the collared flycatcher, Ficedula albicollis, population to test whether and how the environment interacts with age to shape female age-specific reproduction. To characterise environmental variation, we applied the remotely sensed normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), estimating vegetation productivity, and used it as a surrogate for habitat quality. Then, we analysed how within-individual age and NDVI determine patterns in laying date, clutch size, offspring production, and recruitment. We found that young and old females, but not middle-aged females, breeding under low NDVI started to lay eggs later and produced smaller clutches than females of the same age breeding under higher NDVI. No such effects were observed for offspring production or recruitment. Our study provides evidence that both an individual’s age and the environmental variation experienced during adulthood may be crucial for shaping reproductive patterns in short-lived avian species, as has been found in long-lived birds.
Association between the triglyceride-glucose index and calcified aortic stenosis in elderly patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hu Zhihui , Xiong Tiantian , Chen Chunling , Chen Tao , Li Ming , Liang Jia , Chen Kunying , Zhang Jialing , Chen Xu , Chen Qi , Li Guoming
Published: September 2023

Insulin resistance (IR) is associated with a variety of cardiovascular diseases, but there are few studies on the correlation between IR and calcified aortic stenosis (CAS). In this study, the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, which reflects IR, was used to investigate the correlation between IR and CAS. The study included 183 elderly patients who were diagnosed with CAS by transthoracic echocardiography. The patients were matched 1:1 according to age and sex, and elderly patients who were hospitalized during the same period and underwent transthoracic echocardiography without aortic stenosis were included as the control group. The relationship between the TyG index and CAS was analyzed by a multivariable logistic regression model, curve fitting and trend test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the TyG index as a continuous variable was negatively associated with CAS (P < 0.001); trend tests and curve fitting further supported this association. Our study showed that the TyG index was negatively associated with CAS in elderly patients, which may be related to the impairment of insulin receptors and signaling pathways in IR.
A new static visual field test algorithm: the Ambient Interactive ZEST (AIZE)
Authors: Nomoto Hiroki , Matsumoto Chota , Okuyama Sachiko , Kimura Shinji , Inoue Satoshi , Yamanaka Kenzo , Kusaka Shunji
Published: September 2023

Visual field (VF) test is one of the most vital tests in the diagnosis of glaucoma and to monitor the disease worsening. In the past couple of decades, the standard automated perimetry (SAP) test takes a major role in VF test for glaucoma patients. The SAP has been demanded to finish a test in short time without sacrificing accuracy. In this study, we developed and evaluated the performance of a new perimetric algorithm (ambient interactive zippy estimation by sequential testing (ZEST): AIZE) by computer simulation. AIZE is a modification of the ZEST procedure that utilizes the spatial information (weighted likelihood: WL) of neighboring test locations, which varies from the distance to the tested location, to estimate a visual threshold. Ten glaucomatous and 10 normal empirical visual field (VF) test results were simulated with five error conditions [(3% false positives (FP), 3% false negatives (FN)), (9% FP, 9% FN), (15% FP, 15% FN), (3% FP, 15% FN), (15% FP, 3% FN)]. The total number of test presentations and the root mean square error (RMSE) of the estimated visual sensitivities were compared among AIZE, the non-weighted test (WL = 0) and the fixed-weighted test (WL = 0.33). In both glaucomatous (G) and normal (N) VFs, the fixed-weighted test had the lowest number of test presentations (median G 256, N 139), followed by the AIZE (G 285, N 174) and the non-weighted test (G 303, N 195). The RMSE of the fixed-weighted test was lower (median 1.7 dB) than that of the AIZE (1.9 dB) and the non-weighted test (1.9 dB) for normal VFs, whereas the AIZE had a lower RMSE (3.2 dB) than the fixed-weighted test (4.5 dB) and the non-weighted test (4.0 dB) for glaucomatous VFs. Simulation results showed that AIZE had fewer test presentations than the non-weighted test strategy without affecting the accuracy for glaucomatous VFs. The AIZE is a useful time saving test algorithm in clinical settings.
Diagnostic accuracy of brain age prediction in a memory clinic population and comparison with clinically available volumetric measures
Authors: Persson Karin , Leonardsen Esten H. , Edwin Trine Holt , Knapskog Anne-Brita , Tangen Gro Gujord , Selbæk Geir , Wolfers Thomas , Westlye Lars T. , Engedal Knut
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic validity of a deep learning-based method estimating brain age based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to compare it with volumetrics obtained using NeuroQuant (NQ) in a clinical cohort. Brain age prediction was performed on minimally processed MRI data using deep convolutional neural networks and an independent training set. The brain age gap (difference between chronological and biological age) was calculated, and volumetrics were performed in 110 patients with dementia (Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and dementia with Lewy bodies), and 122 with non-dementia (subjective and mild cognitive impairment). Area-under-the-curve (AUC) based on receiver operating characteristics and logistic regression analyses were performed. The mean age was 67.1 (9.5) years and 48.7% (113) were females. The dementia versus non-dementia sensitivity and specificity of the volumetric measures exceeded 80% and yielded higher AUCs compared to BAG. The explained variance of the prediction of diagnostic stage increased when BAG was added to the volumetrics. Further, BAG separated patients with FTD from other dementia etiologies with > 80% sensitivity and specificity. NQ volumetrics outperformed BAG in terms of diagnostic discriminatory power but the two methods provided complementary information, and BAG discriminated FTD from other dementia etiologies.
Tailoring exciton dynamics in TMDC heterobilayers in the ultranarrow gap-plasmon regime
Authors: Rahaman Mahfujur , Kim Gwangwoo , Ma Kyung Yeol , Song Seunguk , Shin Hyeon Suk , Jariwala Deep
Published: September 2023

Control of excitons in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) and their heterostructures is fundamentally interesting for tailoring light-matter interactions and exploring their potential applications in high-efficiency optoelectronic and nonlinear photonic devices. While both intra- and interlayer excitons in TMDCs have been heavily studied, their behavior in the quantum tunneling regime, in which the TMDC or its heterostructure is optically excited and concurrently serves as a tunnel junction barrier, remains unexplored. Here, using the degree of freedom of a metallic probe in an atomic force microscope, we investigated both intralayer and interlayer excitons dynamics in TMDC heterobilayers via locally controlled junction current in a finely tuned sub-nanometer tip-sample cavity. Our tip-enhanced photoluminescence measurements reveal a significantly different exciton-quantum plasmon coupling for intralayer and interlayer excitons due to different orientation of the dipoles of the respective e-h pairs. Using a steady-state rate equation fit, we extracted field gradients, radiative and nonradiative relaxation rates for excitons in the quantum tunneling regime with and without junction current. Our results show that tip-induced radiative (nonradiative) relaxation of intralayer (interlayer) excitons becomes dominant in the quantum tunneling regime due to the Purcell effect. These findings have important implications for near-field probing of excitonic materials in the strong-coupling regime.
Development and validation of an accurate smartphone application for measuring waist-to-hip circumference ratio
Authors: Choudhary Siddharth , Iyer Ganesh , Smith Brandon M. , Li Jinjin , Sippel Mark , Criminisi Antonio , Heymsfield Steven B.
Published: September 2023

Waist-to-hip circumference ratio (WHR) is now recognized as among the strongest shape biometrics linked with health outcomes, although use of this phenotypic marker remains limited due to the inaccuracies in and inconvenient nature of flexible tape measurements when made in clinical and home settings. Here we report that accurate and reliable WHR estimation in adults is possible with a smartphone application based on novel computer vision algorithms. The developed application runs a convolutional neural network model referred to as MeasureNet that predicts a person’s body circumferences and WHR using front, side, and back color images. MeasureNet bridges the gap between measurements conducted by trained professionals in clinical environments, which can be inconvenient, and self-measurements performed by users at home, which can be unreliable. MeasureNet’s accuracy and reliability is evaluated using 1200 participants, measured by a trained staff member. The developed smartphone application, which is a part of Amazon Halo, is a major advance in digital anthropometry, filling a long-existing gap in convenient, accurate WHR measurement capabilities.
Superhydrophobic Coatings on Textiles and Papers
Authors: Tian Ning , Zhang Junping
Published: September 2023

Superhydrophobic textiles and papers have attracted considerable attention due to their unique wettability and great potential for applications in fundamental research and industrial areas. In this chapter, first methods for the fabrication of superhydrophobic textiles and papers by increasing the surface roughness and decreasing the surface energy are overviewed, then the evaluation of their superhydrophobicity is summarized. The most frequently used parameters are contact angle, sliding angle, water shedding angle, water repellency grade and hydrostatic pressure resistance. Low mechanical durability is a key issue restricting their application. The mechanical durability is usually evaluated by abrasion, washing, impact, stretching and torsion tests, etc. To improve the mechanical durability, covalent bonding, cross-linking in coatings, employment of elastic composites, self-healing and multi-layer design are the approaches usually adopted. Finally, functionalization of superhydrophobic textiles and papers is introduced, including self-cleaning, hemostatic textiles and oil–water separation, anti-scalding, anti-bacterial and flame-retardant properties. For the further development and applications of superhydrophobic textiles and papers, high mechanical durability, environmentally friendly fabrication methods and low preparation costs are the main challenges. Waterborne, durable, non-toxic and low-cost superhydrophobic textiles and papers are desired, and purposeful design and functionalization of superhydrophobic textiles and papers are also necessary for their real-world applications.
Anti-corrosion and Anti-fouling Superhydrophobic Coatings
Authors: Nine Md Julker , Tung Tran Thanh , Losic Dusan
Published: September 2023

Corrosion and fouling are two unresolved problems that affect all modern engineering structures. Protective coatings are an effective way to prolong the life span of relevant structures by extending their maintenance period. The recent restriction and banning of toxic but effective coating constituents (e.g. Cr, Co, Cu, tributyltin) have provided additional impetus for researchers to explore non-toxic and sustainable means of structural protection. As a result, different smart mechanisms of protective coatings have been introduced in recent decades, namely self-healing, superhydrophobic (SH), scale-phobic, self-lubricating, self-polishing and so on. Among these, SH coatings particularly are of great interest in mitigating water-induced corrosion and fouling due to their extremely water-repellent nature and ability to stay dry and clean. Resistance to penetrating water molecules can effectively reduce ion transportation from water-based corrosive media to steel while being unable to prevent the settlement and proliferation of unwanted organic and inorganic substances on the surface. This chapter is dedicated explicitly to outlining protective and degradation mechanisms with the efficiency of a diverse range of SH coatings employed for corrosion and fouling (dust, scale, ice and biofouling) protection.
Superhydrophobic Coatings for Drag Reduction and Heat Transfer
Authors: Mittal Ajay , Jaishree  , Goyat Manjeet Singh
Published: September 2023

The implementation of nanotechnology has ushered in a new era of revolutionary change throughout the world in terms of the development of more energy-efficient technologies. This chapter looks at the basics of, challenges with and current developments in superhydrophobic coatings, with the goals of reducing drag and boosting heat transfer. Although superhydrophobic materials have shown promising results in reducing drag and enhancing heat transfer, they still face obstacles such as high fabrication costs, technical complexity, stability and durability. This chapter discusses the possibility of overcoming these obstacles, which are important for the creation of novel superhydrophobic materials that improve heat transfer and reduce drag.
Stretchable Superhydrophobic Coatings
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Xiang Siyuan , Liu Wendong , Tao Shengyang
Published: September 2023

Superhydrophobic coatings are widely utilized in self-cleaning, liquid manipulation, anti-icing, water harvesting and many other fields. Coatings are considered to be superhydrophobic when they are constructed with hierarchical protrusions on the nano- and/or microscale, with water droplets deposited on specific materials possessing a static contact angle of >150° and a sliding/rolling-off angle of <10°. This state is realized by integrating hierarchical structures and the low-surface energy of the materials that form the coating. The durability of superhydrophobic coatings is an essential factor when considering practical applications. Stretchable superhydrophobic coatings became an alternative solution since the flexibility can significantly protect against mechanical damage and daily operations. During the past decade, researchers have invested significant effort into developing stretchable superhydrophobic coatings to broaden further possible applications. An overview of stretchable superhydrophobic coatings is presented in this chapter, with a particular focus on the status of current processing strategies and potential applications. A perspective on future fabrication techniques for developing robust superhydrophobic coatings is also provided.
Correction: Extraction of diazinon, haloxyfop-R-methyl, hexaconazole, diniconazole, and triticonazole in cheese samples using a ferrofluid based liquid phase extraction method prior to gas chromatography
Authors: Rouhi Mahdi , Abolhasani Jafar , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza , Vardini Mohammad Taghi
Published: September 2023

Correction for ‘Extraction of diazinon, haloxyfop-R-methyl, hexaconazole, diniconazole, and triticonazole in cheese samples using a ferrofluid based liquid phase extraction method prior to gas chromatography’ by Mahdi Rouhi et al., Anal. Methods, 2023, 15, 3043–3050, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3AY00160A.
Investigation of the effect of thermal annealing of Ni-cobaltite nanoparticles on their structure, electronic properties and performance as catalysts for the total oxidation of dimethyl ether
Authors: Mevoa Daniel Onana , Kenmoe Stephane , Waqas Muhammad , Douma Dick Hartmann , Manhouli Daawe Daniel , Nchimi Nono Katia , Gebauer Ralph , Kouotou Patrick Mountapmbeme
Published: September 2023

Herein, we report the influence of thermal annealing on the structural and redox properties, optical band gap and electrical conductivity of Ni-doped Co3O4 NPs and the consequence on their catalytic performance in the DME total oxidation.
A low-temperature digital microfluidic system used for protein–protein interaction detection
Authors: Shen Jienan , Liao Jiaqi , Liu Huiying , Liu Chunyan , Li Chonghao , Cheng Hao , Yang Hui , Chen Hong
Published: September 2023

A low-temperature digital microfluidic (LTDMF) system-based PPI detection box.
Correction: The theoretical prediction of the structural characteristics and SO2 adsorption-sensing properties of pristine HfS2 and TM-doped HfS2 monolayers (TM = Ni, Pd, or Pt)
Authors: Vu Tuan V. , Pham Khang D.
Published: September 2023

Correction for ‘The theoretical prediction of the structural characteristics and SO2 adsorption-sensing properties of pristine HfS2 and TM-doped HfS2 monolayers (TM = Ni, Pd, or Pt)’ by Tuan V. Vu et al., New J. Chem., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3nj01053h.
Materials design and applications of n-type and ambipolar organic electrochemical transistors
Authors: Lei Yuqiu , Li Peiyun , Zheng Yuting , Lei Ting
Published: September 2023

With the rapid development of n-type and ambipolar OECT materials, OECTs have been widely used in constructing logic circuits, electrophysiological recording, biosensing, and neuromorphic computing.
Hierarchical dandelion-like CoS2 hollow microspheres: self-assembly and controllable microwave absorption performance
Authors: Xu Dongwei , Zhang Feifan , Guo Huanhuan , Liu Sitong , Ma Shuaijiang , Guo Xiaoqin , Chen Ping
Published: September 2023

The CoS2 hollow microspheres were synthesized by solvothermal–hydrothermal etching and in situ vulcanization process. When the filling is 25 wt%, the RLmin at 3.3 mm is −47.3 dB and the maximum EAB at 3.2 mm is 9.0 GHz.
Facile one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of a zinc oxide/curcumin nanocomposite with enhanced toxic activity against breast cancer cells
Authors: Madeo Lorenzo Francesco , Schirmer Christine , Cirillo Giuseppe , Froeschke Samuel , Hantusch Martin , Curcio Manuela , Nicoletta Fiore Pasquale , Büchner Bernd , Mertig Michael , Hampel Silke
Published: September 2023

A novel straightforward hydrothermal method was used to combine ZnO and CUR in a stable nanocomposite with remarkable anticancer properties
DNA damage and repair dependencies of ionising radiation modalities
Authors: Melia Emma , Parsons Jason L.
Published: September 2023

Radiotherapy is utilised in the treatment of ∼50% of all human cancers, which predominantly employs photon radiation. However, particle radiotherapy elicits significant benefits over conventional photons due to more precise dose deposition and increased linear energy transfer (LET) that generates an enhanced therapeutic response. Specifically, proton beam therapy (PBT) and carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) are characterised by a Bragg peak, which generates a low entrance radiation dose, with the majority of the energy deposition being defined within a small region which can be specifically targeted to the tumour, followed by a low exit dose. PBT is deemed relatively low-LET whereas CIRT is more densely ionising and therefore high LET. Despite the radiotherapy type, tumour cell killing relies heavily on the introduction of DNA damage that overwhelms the repair capacity of the tumour cells. It is known that DNA damage complexity increases with LET that leads to enhanced biological effectiveness, although the specific DNA repair pathways that are activated following the different radiation sources is unclear. This knowledge is required to determine whether specific proteins and enzymes within these pathways can be targeted to further increase the efficacy of the radiation. In this review, we provide an overview of the different radiation modalities and the DNA repair pathways that are responsive to these. We also provide up-to-date knowledge of studies examining the impact of LET and DNA damage complexity on DNA repair pathway choice, followed by evidence on how enzymes within these pathways could potentially be therapeutically exploited to further increase tumour radiosensitivity, and therefore radiotherapy efficacy.
Internal Cognitive Load Differentially Influences Acoustic and Lexical Context Effects in Speech Perception: Evidence From a Population With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Derawi Hadeer , Reinisch Eva , Gabay Yafit
Published: September 2023

Background:

To overcome variability in spoken language, listeners utilize various types of context information for disambiguating speech sounds. Context effects have been shown to be affected by cognitive load. However, previous results are mixed regarding the influence of cognitive load on the use of context information in speech perception.

Purpose:

We tested a population characterized by an attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to better understand the relationship between attention (or internal cognitive load) and context effects.

Method:

The use of acoustic versus lexical properties of the surrounding signal to disambiguate speech sounds was examined in listeners with ADHD and neurotypical listeners.

Results:

Compared to neurotypicals, individuals with ADHD relied more strongly on lexical context for speech perception; however, reliance on acoustic context information from speech rate did not differ.

Conclusion:

These findings confirm that cognitive load impacts the use of high-level but not low-level context information in speech and imply that speech recognition deficits in ADHD likely arise due to impaired higher order cognitive processes.
ALTERED DOSAGE OF PERIPHERAL MYELIN PROTEIN 22 (PMP22) AFFECTS MYELIN PERIODICITY
Authors: Schenone A. , Nobbio L. , Grandis M. , Benedetti L. , Gherardi G.F. , Abbruzzese M. , Mancardi G.L. , Riekel C.
Published: September 2023

Peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) plays a dual role in regulating cells growth and peripheral myelin compaction. Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth 1A neuropathy (CMT1A) and Hereditary Neuropathy with liability to Pressure Palsies (HNPP) are respectively due to a duplication and a deletion of the PMP22 gene, leading to over and underexpression of the protein. It is unknown how the altered PMP22 dosage impairs peripheral myelination. By means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) morphometry we found that myelin periodicity is significantly increased in CMT1A patients (9.79 ± 0.9 nm) and compared to normal sural nerves (9.1 ± 0.7 nm). Conversely, myelin periodicity was slightly reduced in HNPP patients (8.9 ± 0.7 nm). Interestingly, the difference between CMT1A and HNPP patients was highly significant. Moreover, we found an increased myelin periodicity in sciatic nerves of a transgenic rat model of CMT1A (8.9 ± 0.08) and in organotypic dorsal root ganglia cultures (10.1 ± 0.1 nm) established from this rat line, compared to control animals (8.6 ± 0.1) and cultures (9.6 ± 0.1 nm). Since TEM studies suffer considerably from radiation damage, we also used small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) with a synchrotron radiation microbeam (5 m diameter) for in‐situ experiments on single sural nerves of CMT 1A and HNPP patients and of normal controls. For comparison with the TEM‐data, the periodicities were divided by two. Myelin periodicities ranged from 8.4 to 8.9 nm (mean: 8.7 ± 0.3) in CMT 1A nerves, from 8.0 to 8.4 nm (mean: 8.1 ± 0.3) in normal controls, and from 6.9 to 7.2 nm (mean 7.1 ± 0.3) in HNPP. In conclusion, altered PMP22 levels induce significant changes in myelin lamellae spacing, which may be recorded by appropriate morphometric techniques, and in particular by microbeam SAXS. Differences in term of myelin periodicity between TEM morphometry and x‐ray microbeam analysis may be due to the higher resolution and accuracy of the latter technique to measure periodic structures. Having an altered myelin period could lead to demyelination and subsequent remyelination. Therefore, the pathomechanism of both CMT1A and HNPP may be also related to a dysfunction of PMP22 as a structural protein of peripheral myelin.