bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residual gas noises in vacuum of optical interferometer for ground-based gravitational wave detection
Authors: Guo Xi-Qing , Zhou Jing , Wang Chen-Xi , Qin Chen , Guo Cheng-Zhe , Li Gang , Zhang Peng-Fei , Zhang Tian-Cai ,   State Key Laboratory of Quantum Optics and Quantum Optics Devices, Institute of Opto-Electronics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China,   Collaborative Innovation Center of Extreme Optics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
Published: December 2023

Gravitational waves (GWs) are ripples in spacetime caused by most violent and energetic processes in the universe, such as the rapid motion of massive celestial bodies. The GWs carry energy when they propagate through the universe. The detection of GWs holds significance for advancing human understanding of the nature and driving scientific and technological progress. The continual upgrading and optimizing of GW detectors offer novel avenues for cosmic measurements. However, ground-based GW detectors based on a large interferometer necessitate addressing various noises which are harmful to the sensitivity of the GW detectors. Among these noises, the noise from residual gas in the light beam of the interferometer is a crucial factor to affect the sensitivity. Consequently, it is necessary to establish a vacuum system to shield the laser interferometer from the effects of gas flow. This paper focuses on China’s third-generation ground-based GWs detector, conducting theoretical analysis of the influence of residual gas noise on both a 20-meter arm-length prototype and a full-scale device with a 10-kilometer arm-length. In this paper, a theoretical model for the residual gas particles passing through the laser beam is established and the effect on the beam phase is analyzed. The theoretical simulations are performed to discover the relations between the residual gas noise and significant parameters such as gas pressure of the vacuum system, temperature, mass of residual gas particles, polarization rate of the residual gas, and the curvature radius of the test mass. The simulations indicate that when the residual gas pressure is below 2×10–6 Pa, the GW detector can achieve the enough sensitivity, 10–24 Hz–1/2, in a frequency range from 10 to 103 Hz. The findings of this research offer crucial theoretical insights for designing and constructing the vacuum systems in future third-generation GWs detector prototypes and full-scale devices.
Dynamic compartmentalization of the pro-invasive transcription factor NHR-67 reveals a role for Groucho in regulating a proliferative-invasive cellular switch in C. elegans
Authors: Medwig-Kinney Taylor N , Kinney Brian A , Martinez Michael AQ , Yee Callista , Sirota Sydney S , Mullarkey Angelina A , Somineni Neha , Hippler Justin , Zhang Wan , Shen Kang , Hammell Christopher , Pani Ariel M , Matus David Q
Published: December 2023

A growing body of evidence suggests that cell division and basement membrane invasion are mutually exclusive cellular behaviors. How cells switch between proliferative and invasive states is not well understood. Here, we investigated this dichotomy in vivo by examining two cell types in the developing Caenorhabditis elegans somatic gonad that derive from equipotent progenitors, but exhibit distinct cell behaviors: the post-mitotic, invasive anchor cell and the neighboring proliferative, non-invasive ventral uterine (VU) cells. We show that the fates of these cells post-specification are more plastic than previously appreciated and that levels of NHR-67 are important for discriminating between invasive and proliferative behavior. Transcription of NHR-67 is downregulated following post-translational degradation of its direct upstream regulator, HLH-2 (E/Daughterless) in VU cells. In the nuclei of VU cells, residual NHR-67 protein is compartmentalized into discrete punctae that are dynamic over the cell cycle and exhibit liquid-like properties. By screening for proteins that colocalize with NHR-67 punctae, we identified new regulators of uterine cell fate maintenance: homologs of the transcriptional co-repressor Groucho (UNC-37 and LSY-22), as well as the TCF/LEF homolog POP-1. We propose a model in which the association of NHR-67 with the Groucho/TCF complex suppresses the default invasive state in non-invasive cells, which complements transcriptional regulation to add robustness to the proliferative-invasive cellular switch in vivo.
Catecholaminergic neuromodulation and selective attention jointly shape perceptual decision-making
Authors: Nuiten Stijn A , de Gee Jan Willem , Zantvoord Jasper B , Fahrenfort Johannes J , van Gaal Simon
Published: December 2023

Perceptual decisions about sensory input are influenced by fluctuations in ongoing neural activity, most prominently driven by attention and neuromodulator systems. It is currently unknown if neuromodulator activity and attention differentially modulate perceptual decision-making and/or whether neuromodulatory systems in fact control attentional processes. To investigate the effects of two distinct neuromodulatory systems and spatial attention on perceptual decisions, we pharmacologically elevated cholinergic (through donepezil) and catecholaminergic (through atomoxetine) levels in humans performing a visuo-spatial attention task, while we measured electroencephalography (EEG). Both attention and catecholaminergic enhancement improved decision-making at the behavioral and algorithmic level, as reflected in increased perceptual sensitivity and the modulation of the drift rate parameter derived from drift diffusion modeling. Univariate analyses of EEG data time-locked to the attentional cue, the target stimulus, and the motor response further revealed that attention and catecholaminergic enhancement both modulated pre-stimulus cortical excitability, cue- and stimulus-evoked sensory activity, as well as parietal evidence accumulation signals. Interestingly, we observed both similar, unique, and interactive effects of attention and catecholaminergic neuromodulation on these behavioral, algorithmic, and neural markers of the decision-making process. Thereby, this study reveals an intricate relationship between attentional and catecholaminergic systems and advances our understanding about how these systems jointly shape various stages of perceptual decision-making.
Ubiquitin ligase and signalling hub MYCBP2 is required for efficient EPHB2 tyrosine kinase receptor function
Authors: Chang Chao , Banerjee Sara L. , Park Sung Soon , Zhang Xiaolei , Cotnoir-White David , Opperman Karla J. , Desbois Muriel , Grill Brock , Kania Artur
Published: December 2023

Eph receptor tyrosine kinases participate in a variety of normal and pathogenic processes during development and throughout adulthood. This versatility is likely facilitated by the ability of Eph receptors to signal through diverse cellular signalling pathways: primarily by controlling cytoskeletal dynamics, but also by regulating cellular growth, proliferation, and survival. Despite many proteins linked to these signalling pathways interacting with Eph receptors, the specific mechanisms behind such links and their coordination remain to be elucidated. In a proteomics screen for novel EPHB2 multi-effector proteins, we identified human MYC binding protein 2 (MYCBP2 or PAM or Phr1). MYCBP2 is a large signalling hub involved in diverse processes such as neuronal connectivity, synaptic growth, cell division, neuronal survival, and protein ubiquitination. Our biochemical experiments demonstrate that the formation of a complex containing EPHB2 and MYCBP2 is facilitated by FBXO45, a protein known to select substrates for MYCBP2 ubiquitin ligase activity. Formation of the MYCBP2-EPHB2 complex does not require EPHB2 tyrosine kinase activity and is destabilised by binding of ephrin-B ligands, suggesting that the MYCBP2-EPHB2 association is a prelude to EPHB2 signalling. Paradoxically, the loss of MYCBP2 results in increased ubiquitination of EPHB2 and a decrease of its protein levels suggesting that MYCBP2 stabilises EPHB2. Commensurate with this effect, our cellular experiments reveal that MYCBP2 is essential for efficient EPHB2 signalling responses in cell lines and primary neurons. Finally, our genetic studies in C. elegans provide in vivo evidence that the ephrin receptor VAB-1 displays genetic interactions with known MYCBP2 binding proteins. Together, our results align with the similarity of neurodevelopmental phenotypes caused by MYCBP2 and EPHB2 loss of function, and couple EPHB2 to a signaling effector that controls diverse cellular functions.
Emergence of catalytic function in prebiotic information-coding polymers
Authors: Tkachenko Alexei V. , Maslov Sergei
Published: December 2023

Life as we know it relies on the interplay between catalytic activity and information processing carried out by biological polymers. Here we present a plausible pathway by which a pool of prebiotic information-coding oligomers could acquire an early catalytic function, namely sequencespecific cleavage activity. Starting with a system capable of non-enzymatic templated replication, we demonstrate that even non-catalyzed spontaneous cleavage would promote proliferation by generating short fragments that act as primers. Furthermore, we show that catalytic cleavage function can naturally emerge and proliferate in this system. Specifically, a cooperative catalytic network with four subpopulations of oligomers is selected by the evolution in competition with chains lacking catalytic activity. The cooperative system emerges through the functional differentiation of oligomers into catalysts and their substrates. The model is inspired by the structure of the hammerhead RNA enzyme as well as other DNAand RNA-based enzymes with cleavage activity that readily emerge through natural or artificial selection. We identify the conditions necessary for the emergence of the cooperative catalytic network. In particular, we show that it requires the catalytic rate enhancement over the spontaneous cleavage rate to be at least 10
2
−
10
3
, a factor consistent with the existing experiments. The evolutionary pressure leads to a further increase in catalytic efficiency. The presented mechanism provides an escape route from a relatively simple pairwise replication of oligomers towards a more complex behavior involving catalytic function. This provides a bridge between the information-first origin of life scenarios and the paradigm of autocatalytic sets and hypercycles, albeit based on cleavage rather than synthesis of reactants.
ESAT-6 undergoes self-association at phagosomal pH and an ESAT-6 specific nanobody restricts M. tuberculosis growth in macrophages
Authors: Bates Timothy A , Trank-Greene Mila , Nguyenla Xammy , Anastas Aidan , Gurmessa Sintayehu , Merutka Ilaria R , Dixon Shandee D , Shumate Anthony , Parson Matthew AH , Ingram Jessica R , Barklis Eric , Burke John E , Shinde Ujwal , Ploegh Hidde L , Tafesse Fikadu G
Published: December 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb) is known to survive within macrophages by compromising the integrity of the phagosomal compartment in which it resides. This activity primarily relies on the ESX-1 secretion system, predominantly involving the protein duo ESAT-6 and CFP-10. CFP-10 likely acts as a chaperone, while ESAT-6 likely disrupts phagosomal membrane stability via a largely unknown mechanism. we employ a series of biochemical analyses, protein modeling techniques, and a novel ESAT-6-specific nanobody to gain insight into the ESAT-6’s mode of action. First, we measure the binding kinetics of the tight 1:1 complex formed by ESAT-6 and CFP-10 at neutral pH. Subsequently, we demonstrate a rapid self-association of ESAT-6 into large complexes under acidic conditions, leading to the identification of a stable tetrameric ESAT-6 species. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we pinpoint the most probable interaction interface. Furthermore, we show that cytoplasmic expression of an anti-ESAT-6 nanobody blocks Mtb replication, thereby underlining the pivotal role of ESAT-6 in intracellular survival. Together, these data suggest that ESAT-6 acts by a pH dependent mechanism to establish two-way communication between the cytoplasm and the Mtb-containing phagosome.
Divergent Pairwise Epistasis in the Context of Unstable Membrane Protein Variants
Authors: Chamness Laura M. , Kuntz Charles P. , McKee Andrew G. , Penn Wesley D. , Hemmerich Christopher M. , Rusch Douglas B. , Woods Hope , Dyotima  , Meiler Jens , Schlebach Jonathan P.
Published: December 2023

Many eukaryotic membrane proteins are prone to misfolding, which compromises their functional expression at the plasma membrane. This is particularly true for mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors (GnRHRs), which are G protein-coupled receptors involved in reproductive steroidogenesis. We recently demonstrated that evolutionary modifications within mammalian GnRHRs appear to have coincided with adaptive changes in cotranslational folding efficiency. Though changes in protein stability are known to shape evolutionary interactions, it is unclear how the energetic drivers of cotranslational folding in the membrane may modify epistatic interactions. We therefore surveyed the pairwise epistatic interactions that modify the expression of two destabilized GnRHR variants bearing mutations that selectively compromise either its membrane topology (V276T) or its native tertiary structure (W107A). Using deep mutational scanning (DMS), we evaluated how the effects of these mutations on the expression of the mature form of the protein at the plasma membrane are modified by hundreds of secondary mutations. A focused analysis of 251 mutants with high-quality measurements in three genetic backgrounds reveals that V276T and W107A form distinct epistatic interactions that depend on both the degree to which they destabilize the protein and the mechanism of their destabilization. An unsupervised learning analysis shows that V276T forms predominantly negative epistatic interactions that are most pronounced among destabilizing mutations within soluble loop regions. In contrast, W107A forms interactions with mutations in both loops and transmembrane domains that skew positive as a result of the diminishing impact of the destabilizing mutations in the context of an already unstable variant. These findings provide general insights into how pairwise epistasis is remodeled by conformational defects in membrane proteins and, more generally, in unstable proteins.
Examination of the Cerebellomedullary Cistern Using Postmortem Computed Tomography in Various Types of Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Heo Jin-Haeng , Im Sang-Beom , Jang Seon Jung , Kwon Jeong-Hwa , Na Joo-Young
Published: December 2023

Intracranial hemorrhage is a major cause of sudden unexpected death and its identification is important for death investigations. Cisternal puncture of the cerebellomedullary cistern (CMC) can be used to identify intracranial hemorrhage during postmortem examination. Intracranial hemorrhage comprises various types of hemorrhage, and the possibility of hemorrhage identification by cisternal puncture can differ according to the type of intracranial hemorrhage. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is non-invasive and can be performed before autopsy. In this study, we aimed to identify the hemorrhage in the CMC using PMCT in cases of various intracranial hemorrhage. PMCT was performed before the autopsy. Autopsy reports and PMCT were retrospectively reviewed for 108 cases of intracranial hemorrhage confirmed by conventional autopsy. Hemorrhagic regions showed ≥60 Hounsfield units on PMCT. Hemorrhage in the CMC was identified in 42.6% (46/108) by PMCT and was frequently identified in the cases of basal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) (19/21). Hemorrhage in the CMC was identified in approximately 50% of patients with non-basal SAH and intracerebral hemorrhage. Detection of hemorrhage in the CMC by PMCT is hindered by several factors, such as dental artifacts. This study does not guarantee the usefulness of postmortem cisternal puncture. However, this study verified hemorrhage in the CMC according to the various types of intracranial hemorrhages using PMCT and showed its possibilities and limitations.
A Statistical Analysis of Forensic Autopsies Performed in the Jungbu Province of Korea in 2021
Authors: Kim JeongHwan , Kim Eun Kyoung , Park Min Jee , Park Ji Hye , Oh Se-min , Won Yujin , Lee Nak-won , Lee Soo Kyung , Yi Hyelim , Kim Minjung
Published: December 2023

We analyzed 1,079 forensic autopsies conducted in 2021 by the National Forensic Service Daejeon Institute from the Jungbu province in the central part of South Korea, for their manner and cause of death. Among the manner of death (n=1,079), 45.3% (n=489) were categorised as unnatural, 39.5% (n=426) as natural, and 15.2% (n=164) were unknown. Among the unnatural deaths (n=489), 40.7% (n=199) were accidents, 36.8% (n=180) were suicides, 14.1% (n=69) were undetermined, and 8.4% (n=41) were homicides. The major causes of unnatural deaths (n=489) were by trauma, causing 34.4% (n=168), poisoning causing 26.8% (n=131), and asphyxia causing 17.2% (n=84). The major cause of death by trauma (n=168) was falling at 46.4% (n=78), and by asphyxia (n=84) was strangulation at 76.2% (n=64). Among natural deaths (n=426), heart disease was the major cause at 49.8% (n=212) followed by vascular disease at 16.7% (n=71). In future, a time-series statistical analysis on the manner and causes of death in Jungbu province may provide insight and allow for more advanced interpretations about both healthcare and public safety.
Sex Estimation Using Humerus Volume of CT Images in Korean Population: A Metric Study
Authors: Shim Yun Taek , Aum Nahyun , Lee Young Man , Kim Seongho , Hyun Jin Young , Lee Kyung-mi
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to explore the use of three-dimensional reconstructed computed tomography images of the adult humerus for forensic anthropological sex estimation in the Korean population. In forensic anthropology, the skull and pelvic bone show high accuracy in sex estimation; however, when they are impaired, other bones should be available for sex estimation. Six hundred images of the right and left humerus pair were used. A logistic regression analysis was performed by measuring the volumes of 500 images and the remaining 100 images were used in the metric sex estimation. Both the logistic regression and metric measurements were performed separately on three regions of the right and left humerus: the head, mid-shaft, and digital regions, The accuracy of sex estimation in the right humerus was 93% (91% for men and 96% for women), 92% (93% for men and 91% for women), and 87% (85% for men and 89% for women) for the head, mid-shaft, and digital regions, respectively. Sex estimation accuracy in the left humerus was 92% (89% for men and 96% for women), 93% (96% for men and 89% for women), and 91% (91% for men and 91% for women) for the head, mid-shaft, and digital regions, respectively. These results contribute to high accuracy and reliability in sex estimation using three-dimensional images of the humerus in Koreans, whereas the two-dimensional metric method provided limited information on bone measurements.
Management of OFF condition in Parkinson disease
Authors: Koch Jessa
Published: December 2023

Parkinson disease (PD) impacts nearly 1 million individuals in the United States. Nearly every patient with PD will require therapy with dopamine in the form of levodopa as the disease progresses. In more advanced stages of the disease, patients will experience motor fluctuations and require adjustment to their medication regimens to maintain good control of their symptoms. During the last 10 years, several new therapeutic treatment options have come to the market to treat motor fluctuations and improve patient quality of life. Some of these agents represent additional options to previously available drug classes, such as the catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) inhibitor, opicapone, and monoamine-oxidase B-inhibitor (MAO-B inhibitor), safinamide, as well as new dosage forms for available therapeutics. One new agent, istradefylline, has a novel mechanism in the treatment of PD. The place in therapy for these newer therapeutic options will be explored through a series of patient cases. This article focuses on evidence-based recommendations for the use of these newer options in the management of patients experiencing OFF episodes.
Synthesis and Characterization of TiO2-ZnO Nanocomposite Photocatalyst for the Removal of Basic Violet 14 as an Industrial Dye
Authors: Samad Md. Abdullah Bin , Quayum Emran , Hossain Md. Amjad , Islam Tajmeri S. A. , Khan Mohammad Mahmudur Rahman
Published: December 2023

Binary nanocomposites are one of the promising photocatalysts for the photodegradation of toxic industrial organic dyes which are used as dying agents in different industries including garments and textiles, leather, paint and varnish industries. For this study, TiO2-ZnO nanocomposites were fabricated by the hydrothermal process; where ZnSO4.7H2O is used as a precursor and TiO2 is used as a supporting material. The prepared TiO2-ZnO nanocomposites were calcined at three distinct temperatures 300 °C, 400 °C, and 500 °C. These composite materials were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analyzes. Basic Violet 14 (BV14), an industrial dye, was modelled to examine the photocatalytic role of TiO2-ZnO under different experimental setups such as calcined temperatures, catalyst loading, concentrations of the BV14 dye, pH, and light sources. TiO2-ZnO prepared at 500 °C acted as the best photocatalyst among three nanocomposites and the prepared TiO2-ZnO worked better than solitary TiO2 and ZnO to decolorize the BV14 dye. In the presence of sunlight, UV light, and visible light the percentages of degradation of BV14 were found to be 81.78 %, 69.58 %, and 31.24 %, respectively. The maximum photodegradation corresponded to 0.175 g/100 mL of suspension of nanocomposite with an initial 3.0×10−5 M of BV14 having solution pH 6.88. The surface reaction constant and Langmuir-Hinshelwood adsorption constant were obtained to be 5.5×10−8 mol.L−1.min−1 and 1.7×108 L.mol−1, respectively. Copyright © 2023 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA   License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Knowledge and practices of community health agents in mental health demands - Conhecimentos e práticas de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde frentes às demandas de saúde mental
Authors: Siniak Débora Schlotefeldt , Dos Santos Rodriguez Eliane , Ribeiro Borges Luana , Portela Cassola Talita , Silvelo Franco Matheus , Lopes Espindola Thiago
Published: December 2023

Objetivo: identificar conhecimentos e práticas de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde frente às demandas de saúde mental na Atenção Básica. Método: estudo qualitativo de caráter exploratório, realizado em um município da Fronteira Oeste do Rio Grande do Sul. A coleta de dados ocorreu entre outubro e novembro de 2022, através de entrevistas semiestruturadas, tratadas por Análise de Conteúdo. Participaram do estudo 12 Agentes Comunitários de Saúde atuantes em três Estratégias Saúde da Família. Resultados: o paradigma biomédico está presente no cotidiano das práticas dos profissionais entrevistados. O cuidado prestado às pessoas em sofrimento psíquico e suas famílias é limitado devido a falta de conhecimento dos Agentes. Considerações Finais: destaca-se a importância de atividades de Educação Permanente e continuada junto aos Agentes Comunitários, a fim de melhorar a qualidade do cuidado, aumentar a abrangência das ações de saúde mental no território e reduzir práticas excludentes e estigmatizantes.
Transgender Youths and Sanctuaries for Gender-Affirming Care
Authors: Barbee Harry , McKay Tara
Published: December 2023

This Viewpoint suggests ways state and local governments can support transgender youths seeking gender-affirming care amid continued passage of antitransgender legislation.
Outcomes of Veterans Treated in Veterans Affairs Hospitals vs Non–Veterans Affairs Hospitals
Authors: Yoon Jean , Phibbs Ciaran S. , Ong Michael K. , Vanneman Megan E. , Chow Adam , Redd Andrew , Kizer Kenneth W. , Dizon Matthew P. , Wong Emily , Zhang Yue
Published: December 2023

Importance

Many veterans enrolled in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system have access to non-VA care through insurance and VA-purchased community care. Prior comparisons of VA and non-VA hospital outcomes have been limited to subpopulations.

Objective

To compare outcomes for 6 acute conditions in VA and non-VA hospitals for younger and older veterans using VA and all-payer discharge data.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used a repeated cross-sectional analysis of hospitalization records for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage, heart failure (HF), pneumonia, and stroke. Participants included VA enrollees from 11 states at VA and non-VA hospitals from 2012 to 2017. Analysis was conducted from July 1, 2022, to October 18, 2023.

Exposures

Treatment in VA or non-VA hospital.

Main Outcome and Measures

Thirty-day mortality, 30-day readmission, length of stay (LOS), and costs. Average treatment outcomes of VA hospitals were estimated using inverse probability weighted regression adjustment to account for selection into hospitals. Models were stratified by veterans’ age (aged less than 65 years and aged 65 years and older).

Results

There was a total of 593 578 hospitalizations and 414 861 patients with mean (SD) age 75 (12) years, 405 602 males (98%), 442 297 hospitalizations of non-Hispanic White individuals (75%) and 73 155 hospitalizations of non-Hispanic Black individuals (12%) overall. VA hospitalizations had a lower probability of 30-day mortality for HF (age ≥65 years, −0.02 [95% CI, −0.03 to −0.01]) and stroke (age <65 years, −0.03 [95% CI, −0.05 to −0.02]; age ≥65 years, −0.05 [95% CI, −0.07 to −0.03]). VA hospitalizations had a lower probability of 30-day readmission for CABG (age <65 years, −0.04 [95% CI, −0.06 to −0.01]; age ≥65 years, −0.05 [95% CI, −0.07 to −0.02]), GI hemorrhage (age <65 years, −0.04 [95% CI, −0.06 to −0.03]), HF (age <65 years, −0.05 [95% CI, −0.07 to −0.03]), pneumonia (age <65 years, −0.04 [95% CI, −0.06 to −0.03]; age ≥65 years, −0.03 [95% CI, −0.04 to −0.02]), and stroke (age <65 years, −0.11 [95% CI, −0.13 to −0.09]; age ≥65 years, −0.13 [95% CI, −0.16 to −0.10]) but higher probability of readmission for AMI (age <65 years, 0.04 [95% CI, 0.01 to 0.06]). VA hospitalizations had a longer mean LOS and higher costs for all conditions, except AMI and stroke in younger patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of veterans, VA hospitalizations had lower mortality for HF and stroke and lower readmissions, longer LOS, and higher costs for most conditions compared with non-VA hospitalizations with differences by condition and age group. There were tradeoffs between better outcomes and higher resource use in VA hospitals for some conditions.
Human Motor System‐Based Biohybrid Robot‐On‐a‐Chip for Drug Evaluation of Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: Shin Minkyu , Ha Taehyeong , Lim Joungpyo , An Joohyun , Beak Geunyoung , Choi Jin‐Ha , Melvin Ambrose Ashwin , Yoon Jinho , Choi Jeong‐Woo
Published: December 2023

Biohybrid robots have been developed for biomedical applications and industrial robotics. However, the biohybrid robots have limitations to be applied in neurodegenerative disease research due to the absence of a central nervous system. In addition, the organoids‐on‐a‐chip has not yet been able to replicate the physiological function of muscle movement in the human motor system, which is essential for evaluating the accuracy of the drugs used for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Here, a human motor system‐based biohybrid robot‐on‐a‐chip composed of a brain organoid, multi‐motor neuron spheroids, and muscle bundle on solid substrateis proposed to evaluate the drug effect on neurodegenerative diseases for the first time. The electrophysiological signals from the cerebral organoid induced the muscle bundle movement through motor neuron spheroids. To evaluate the drug effect on Parkinson's disease (PD), a patient‐derived midbrain organoid is generated and incorporated into a biohybrid robot‐on‐a‐chip. The drug effect on PD is successfully evaluated by measuring muscle bundle movement. The muscle bundle movement of PD patient‐derived midbrain organoid‐based biohybrid robot‐on‐a‐chip is increased from 4.5 ± 0.99 µm to 18.67 ± 2.25 µm in response to levodopa. The proposed human motor system‐based biohybrid robot‐on‐a‐chip can serve as a standard biohybrid robot model for drug evaluation.
Hofmeister Effect Promoted the Introduction of Tunable Large Mesopores in MOFs at Low Temperature for Femtomolar ALP Detection
Authors: Yang Jian , Gong Ming , Xia Fan , Tong Yao , Gu Jinlou
Published: December 2023

In addressing the demand for hierarchically mesoporous metal‐organic frameworks (HMMOFs) with adjustable large mesopores, a method based on the synergistic effects of low‐temperature microemulsions and Hofmeister ions is developed. Low temperature dramatically enhanced the solubility of hydrophobic solvent in the microemulsion core, enlarging the mesopores in HMMOFs replica. Meanwhile, Hofmeister salt‐in ions continuously controlled mesopore expansion by modulating the permeability of swelling agent into the microemulsion core. The large mesopores up to 33 nm provided sufficient space for the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enrichment, and retained the remaining channel to facilitate the free mass diffusion. Leveraging these advantages, a colorimetric sensor is successfully developed using large‐mesopore HMMOFs for femtomolar ALP detection based on the enrichment and cycling amplification principles. The sensor exhibited a linear detection range of 100 to 7500 fm and a limit of detection of 42 fm, presenting over 4000 times higher sensitivity than classic para‐nitrophenyl phosphate colorimetric methods. Such high sensitivity highlights the importance of adjustable mesoporous structures of HMMOFs in advanced sensing applications, and prefigures their potential for detecting large biomolecules in diagnostics and biomedical research.
Cyclic Polyesters with Closed‐Loop Recyclability from A New Chemically Reversible Alternating Copolymerization
Authors: Lu Xiaoxian , Zhang Xun , Zhang Chengjian , Zhang Xinghong
Published: December 2023

Polyesters with both cyclic topology and chemical recyclability are attractive. Here, the alternating copolymerization of cyclic anhydride and o‐phthalaldehyde to synthesize a series of cyclic and recyclable polyesters are reported for the first time. Besides readily available monomers, the copolymerization is carried out at 25 °C, uses common Lewis/Brønsted acids as catalysts, and achieves high yields within 1 h. The resulting polyesters possess well‐defined alternating sequences, high‐purity cyclic topology, and tunable structures using distinct two monomer sets. Of interest, the copolymerization manifests obvious chemical reversibility as revealed by kinetic and thermodynamic studies, making the unprecedented polyesters easy to recycle to their distinct two monomers in a closed loop at high temperatures. This work furnishes a facile and efficient method to synthesize cyclic polyesters with closed‐loop recyclability.
Efficient and Stable Tin–Lead Perovskite Photoconversion Devices Using Dual‐Functional Cathode Interlayer
Authors: Mubarok Muhibullah Al , Choi Yuri , Mehrotra Rashmi , Kim Yu Jin , Boddu Rama Krishna , Lee Inhui , Kim Jiyeong , Kwak Sang Kyu , Jang Ji‐Wook , Ryu Jungki , Jang Sung‐Yeon
Published: December 2023

Tin–lead halide perovskites (TLHPs) are promising photoactive materials for photovoltaics (PVs) due to reduced toxicity and broad light absorption. However, their inherent ionic vacancies facilitate inward metal diffusion, accelerating device degradation. Here, efficient, stable TLHP‐based PV and photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices are reported containing a chemically protective cathode interlayer—amine‐functionalized perylene diimide (PDINN). Solution‐processed PDINN effectively extract electrons and suppress inward‐metal diffusion by forming tridentate metal complexes with its nucleophilic sites. The PV device achieved an efficiency of 23.21% (>81% retention after 750 h at 60 °C and >90% retention after 3100 h at 23 ± 4 °C), and the first demonstration of TLHP‐based PEC devices exhibit a record‐high bias‐free solar hydrogen production rate (33.0 mA cm−2; ≈3.42 × 10−6 kg s−1 m−2) when coupled with biomass oxidation, which is ≈1.7‐fold higher than the ultimate target set by the U.S. Department of Energy for one‐sun hydrogen production. These findings demonstrate the potential of TLHPs for efficient, stable photoconversion by the molecular design of the cathode interlayer.
Inhibiting Dendrite Formation and Electrode Corrosion via a Scalable Self‐Assembled Mercaptan Layer for Stable Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Ren Baohui , Hu Sanlue , Chen Ao , Zhang Xiangyong , Wei Hua , Jiang Jingjing , Chen Guangming , Zhi Chunyi , Li Hongfei , Liu Zhuoxin
Published: December 2023

The practical use of Zn metal anodes in aqueous zinc batteries is impeded by the growth of dendrites, anode corrosion, and hydrogen evolution reaction in aqueous electrolytes. In this study, a simple, energy‐efficient, and scalable approach is reported to mitigate these detrimental issues effectively. Using 1‐hexanethiol (HT), a hydrophobic self‐assembled mercaptan layer (SAML) with a highly ordered structure is in situ created on the surface of the Zn anode. This ultrathin interfacial structure guides uniform Zn deposition and shields the Zn anode from water and oxygen‐induced corrosion, thus effectively inhibiting dendrite formation and side reactions. Consequently, the HT‐Zn electrode showcases impressive electrochemical stability and reversibility, and the as‐assembled HT‐Zn||I2 full cell delivers increased specific capacity (from 112 to 155 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1) and ultra‐stable cyclability (zero capacity decay during the extended 1500 cycles at 4 A g−1). To validate the effectiveness of this simple and scalable method, a large‐sized pouch cell is prepared, which can be stably operated for 1000 cycles with a capacity decay of merely 0.0098% per cycle and Coulombic efficiency exceeding 99.1%. The presented SAML strategy highlights the potential of molecular engineering in improving the performance of aqueous zinc batteries.
An Autoencoder‐Based Deep‐Learning Method for Augmenting the Sensing Capability of Piezoelectric Microelectromechanical System Sensors in a Fluid‐Dynamic System
Authors: Kazemzadeh Mohammadrahim , Mehdipour Iman , De Vittorio Massimo , Pisanello Ferruccio
Published: December 2023

Herein, an innovative deep‐learning architecture is proposed to enhance the sensing capabilities of a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) used in fluid dynamic applications. The MEMS sensor comprises a polyvinylidene fluoride flexible (PVDF) piezoelectric flag and a bluff body, with vortex generation influenced not only by the bluff body's geometry but also by the input fluid speed. As a result, mechanical vibrations are induced in the piezoelectric flag, leading to charge displacement and the generation of electrical voltage signals. Through the developed deep learning method, accurate extraction of wind speed and successful classification of turbulence are achieved. Experimental tests in a wind tunnel, involving various wind speeds and bluff body geometries, demonstrate the robust correlation between the extracted continuous manifold in Fourier spectra and wind speed. By incorporating a feed‐forward network alongside the autoencoder, wind speed information even under strong turbulence is extracted. Moreover, the deep learning method's ability to classify different bluff bodies, independent of wind speed, is investigated. The findings reveal a unique capability to fingerprint turbulence and distinguish them for various applications. This research showcases the potential of our deep learning‐based MEMS systems for enhancing fluid dynamic sensing and classification tasks.
Scene construction and autobiographical memory retrieval in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Agron Anna M. , Martin Alex , Gilmore Adrian W.
Published: December 2023

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently exhibit difficulties in retrieving autobiographical memories (AMs) of specific events from their life. Such memory deficits are frequently attributed to underlying disruptions in self‐referential or social cognition processes. This makes intuitive sense as these are hallmarks of ASD. However, an emerging literature suggests that parallel deficits also exist in ASD individuals' ability to reconstruct the rich spatial contexts in which events occur. This is a capacity known as scene construction, and in typically developing individuals is considered a core process in retrieving AMs. In this review, we discuss evidence of difficulties with scene construction in ASD, drawing upon experiments that involve AM retrieval, other forms of mental time travel, and spatial navigation. We also highlight aspects of extant data that cannot be accounted for using purely social explanations of memory deficits in ASD. We conclude by identifying key questions raised by our framework and suggest how they might be addressed in future research.
Circulating Tumor DNA Profiling Approach Based on In Silico Background Elimination Guides Chemotherapy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Li Ming , Xie Sisi , Hou Tao , Shao Tong , Kuang Jingyu , Liu Chuanyang , Qu Ying , Lu Chenyu , Liu Jiali , Liu Xianling , Zhu Lingyun , Zhu Lvyun
Published: December 2023

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis increasingly provides a promising minimally invasive alternative to tissue biopsies in precision oncology. However, there are no ctDNA analysis approaches available in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and current methods of ctDNA mutation profiling have limited resolution because of the high background noise and false‐positive rate caused by benign variants in plasma cell‐free DNA (cfDNA), majorly generated during clonal hematopoiesis. Although personalized parallel white blood cell genome sequencing suppresses the noise of clonal hematopoiesis variances, the system cost and complexity restrict its extensive application in clinical settings. We developed Matched WBC Genome sequencing Independent CtDNA profiling (MaGIC) approaches, which synergically integrated a ctDNA capturing panel for a hybrid capture cfDNA deep sequencing, in silico background elimination, and a reliable readout measurement. We profiled the ctDNAs of 80 plasma samples from 40 patients with NPC before and during chemotherapy by MaGICs. In addition, the public cfDNA sequencing data and The Cancer Genome Atlas project data were analyzed by MaGICs to evaluate their application in other scenarios of patient classification. The MaGIC version‐2 has the ability to predict the chemosensitivity of patients with NPC with high accuracy by utilizing a single sample of liquid biopsy from each patient prior to a standardized treatment regimen. Moreover, both versions of MaGICs are of ideal performance in the diagnosis of patients with prostate cancer by liquid biopsy and prognosis prediction of multiple cancers by tissue biopsy. This study has the potential to enhance the sensitivity and expand the application scope of ctDNA detection, independently of other paired genome sequencing methods. As a result, it might further increase the clinical utilization of liquid biopsy based on ctDNA.
Human mesenchymal stem cells increase LLC metastasis and stimulate or decelerate tumor development depending on injection method and cell amount
Authors: Stepanov Yurii V. , Golovynska Iuliia , Ostrovska Galyna , Pylyp Larysa , Dovbynchuk Taisa , Stepanova Liudmyla I. , Gorbach Oleksandr , Shablii Volodymyr , Xu Hao , Garmanchuk Liudmyla V. , Ohulchanskyy Tymish Y. , Qu Junle , Solyanik Galina I.
Published: December 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) being injected into the body can stimulate or decelerate carcinogenesis. Here, the direction of influence of human placenta‐derived MSCs (P‐MSCs) on the Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumor development and metastatic potential is investigated in C57BL/6 mice depending on the injection method. After intramuscular co‐inoculation of LLC and P‐MSCs (LLC + P‐MSCs), the growth of primary tumor and angiogenesis are slowed down compared to the control LLC on the 15th day. This is explained by the fact of a decrease in the secretion of proangiogenic factors during in vitro co‐cultivation of an equal amount of LLC and P‐MSCs. When P‐MSCs are intravenously (i.v.) injected in the mice with developing LLC (LLC + P‐MSCs(i.v.)), the tumor growth and angiogenesis are stimulated on the 15th day. A highly activated secretion of proangiogenic factors by P‐MSCs in a similar in vitro model can explain this. In both the models compared to the control on the 23rd day, there is no significant difference in the tumor growth, while angiogenesis remains correspondingly decelerated or stimulated. However, in both the models, the total volume and number of lung metastases constantly increase compared to the control: it is mainly due to small‐size metastases for LLC + P‐MSCs(i.v.) and larger ones for LLC + P‐MSCs. The increase in the rate of LLC cell dissemination after the injection of P‐MSCs is explained by the disordered polyploidy and chromosomal instability, leading to an increase in migration and invasion of cancer cells. After LLC + P‐MSCs co‐inoculation, the tumor cell karyotype has the most complex and heterogeneous chromosomal structure. These findings indicate a bidirectional effect of P‐MSCs on the growth of LLC in the early periods after injection, depending on the injection method, and, correspondingly, the number of contacting cells. However, regardless of the injection method, P‐MSCs are shown to increase LLC aggressiveness related to cancer‐associated angiogenesis and metastasis activation in the long term.
Multi‐Pathways for Sustainable Fuel Production from Biomass Using Zirconium‐Based Catalysts: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Purnama Indra , Trisunaryanti Wega , Wijaya Karna , Mutamima Anisa , Oh Won‐Chun , Boukherroub Rabah , Aziz Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Numerous concerns, including environmental impact and public health issues, drive the urgent need to replace nonrenewable fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, with biomass emerging as a viable alternative globally. In this comprehensive review, the urgent need to transition from nonrenewable fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is addressed, focusing on biomass as a global alternative. It examines the role of zirconium‐based catalysts in converting biomass into biofuels and hydrogen. Various biomass extraction methods based on the thermochemical processes (pyrolysis, gasification, hydrothermal liquefaction, hydrocracking, and steam reforming) are explored, including their merits and limitations. Additionally, the properties of zirconium‐based catalysts and their catalytic efficiency in biomass conversion are assessed, highlighting the factors influencing their performance. In this literature review, the promising potential of zirconium‐based catalysts in enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of global biofuel production from biomass is revealed. It underscores the critical role of biomass as a renewable energy source and highlights the significance of zirconium‐based catalysts in advancing sustainable biofuel production. It offers insights into addressing environmental concerns, promoting public health, and supporting the global transition toward renewable energy solutions.
Reactive oxygen species in biological systems: Pathways, associated diseases, and potential inhibitors—A review
Authors: Rauf Abdur , Khalil Anees Ahmed , Awadallah Samir , Khan Shahid Ali , Abu‐Izneid Tareq , Kamran Muhammad , Hemeg Hassan A. , Mubarak Mohammad S. , Khalid Ahood , Wilairatana Polrat
Published: December 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced under normal physiological conditions and may have beneficial and harmful effects on biological systems. ROS are involved in many physiological processes such as differentiation, proliferation, necrosis, autophagy, and apoptosis by acting as signaling molecules or regulators of transcription factors. In this case, maintaining proper cellular ROS levels is known as redox homeostasis. Oxidative stress occurs because of the imbalance between the production of ROS and antioxidant defenses. Sources of ROS include the mitochondria, auto‐oxidation of glucose, and enzymatic pathways such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced (NAD[P]H) oxidase. The possible ROS pathways are NF‐κB, MAPKs, PI3K‐Akt, and the Keap1‐Nrf2‐ARE signaling pathway. This review covers the literature pertaining to the possible ROS pathways and strategies to inhibit them. Additionally, this review summarizes the literature related to finding ROS inhibitors.
Is illiquidity priced in an international factor pricing model? A dynamic panel data application with robust IV
Authors: Racicot François‐Eric , Rentz William F. , Théoret Raymond
Published: December 2023

In the setting of a dynamic panel data framework, we investigate the international five‐factor Fama–French (2017) model augmented with traditional illiquidity factors (Amihud, Journal of Financial Markets, 2002, 5, 31–56; Amihud, Critical Finance Review, 2019, 8, 203–221; Pástor and Stambaugh, Journal of Political Economy, 2003, 111, 642–685; Pástor and Stambaugh, Critical Finance Review, 2019, 8, 277–299) to determine if any of these factors are priced. Since illiquidity measures are endogenous, we propose an algorithm that generates robust instruments which are combined with a GMM estimator to cope with both the endogeneity issues surrounding illiquidity and other eventual specification errors. In this dynamic framework, we generally find that the most significant factors correspond to market and size but illiquidity may matter depending on the level of the beta. We find that illiquidity has more impact on returns in expansion than in recession. However, the bid‐ask spread seems to behave differently from the other illiquidity measures.