bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low concentration cell painting images enable the identification of highly potent compounds
Authors: Ha Son V. , Jaensch Steffen , Freitas Lorena G. A. , Herman Dorota , Czodrowski Paul , Ceulemans Hugo
Published: October 2024

Image-based models that use features extracted from cell microscopy images can estimate the activity of small molecules in various biological assays. Typically, models are trained on images stained by an optimized protocol (e.g. Cell Painting) after exposure to a fairly high small molecule concentration (referred to as ’image concentration’) of $$10\; \upmu {\text{M}}$$

10

μ
M

or higher. Low concentration images (e.g. $$0.16$$

0.16

μM, $$0.8$$

0.8

μM, $$4$$

4

μM) tend to yield models with worse performance. In this work, we nevertheless report a practical use for low image concentration data. We propose the combination of well-performing models trained at higher image concentrations, with lower image concentration for inference to identify more potent compounds. We show that this approach improves on the conventional method (directly training a high-potency model) in 65$$\%$$
%
of assays investigated in terms of AUC-ROC, and 75$$\%$$
%
of assays in terms of RIPtoP-corrected AUC-PR.
The iron-catalysed Suzuki coupling of aryl chlorides
Authors: Rowsell Benjamin J. S. , O’Brien Harry M. , Athavan Gayathri , Daley-Dee Patrick R. , Krieger Johannes , Richards Emma , Heaton Karl , Fairlamb Ian J. S. , Bedford Robin B.
Published: October 2024

The very widely exploited Suzuki biaryl coupling reaction typically requires catalysts based on palladium, but there is an increasing desire to replace this metal with a more sustainable, less expensive alternative, with catalysts based on iron being a particularly attractive target. Here we show that a simple iron-based catalyst with an N-heterocyclic carbene ligand can be used to excellent effect in the Suzuki biaryl coupling of aryl chloride substrates with aryl boronic esters activated by an organolithium reagent. Mechanistic studies suggest the possible involvement of Fe(I) as the lowest oxidation state on the catalytic manifold and show that the challenging step is not activation of the aryl chloride substrate, but rather the transmetallation step. These findings are likely to lead to a renaissance of iron-catalysed carbon–carbon bond-forming transformations with soft nucleophilic coupling partners.
Identification of tauopathy-associated lipid signatures in Alzheimer’s disease mouse brain using label-free chemical imaging
Authors: Meng Hao , Elliott Alicia , Mansfield Jessica , Bailey Michelle , Frogley Mark , Cinque Gianfelice , Moger Julian , Stone Nick , Tamagnini Francesco , Palombo Francesca
Published: October 2024

There is cumulative evidence that lipid metabolism plays a key role in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Visualising lipid content in a non-destructive label-free manner can aid in elucidating the AD phenotypes towards a better understanding of the disease. In this study, we combined multiple optical molecular-specific methods, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic imaging, synchrotron radiation-infrared (SR-IR) microscopy, Raman and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy, and optical-photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) microscopy with multivariate data analysis, to investigate the biochemistry of brain hippocampus in situ using a mouse model of tauopathy (rTg4510). We observed a significant difference in the morphology and lipid content between transgenic (TG) and wild type (WT) samples. Immunohistochemical staining revealed some degree of microglia co-localisation with elevated lipids in the brain. These results provide new evidence of tauopathy-related dysfunction in a preclinical study at a subcellular level.
Potential for photosynthesis on Mars within snow and ice
Authors: Khuller Aditya R. , Warren Stephen G. , Christensen Philip R. , Clow Gary D.
Published: October 2024

On Earth, solar radiation can transmit down to multiple metres within ice, depending on its optical properties. Organisms within ice can harness energy from photosynthetically active radiation while being protected from damaging ultraviolet radiation. On Mars, the lack of an effective ozone shield allows ~30% more damaging ultraviolet radiation to reach the surface in comparison with Earth. However, our radiative transfer modelling shows that despite the intense surface ultraviolet radiation, there are radiatively habitable zones within exposed mid-latitude ice on Mars, at depths ranging from a few centimetres for ice with 0.01–0.1% dust, and up to a few metres within cleaner ice. Numerical models predict that dense dusty snow in the martian mid-latitudes can melt below the surface at present. Thus, if small amounts of liquid water are available at these depths, mid-latitude ice exposures could represent the most easily accessible locations to search for extant life on Mars.
A platform-agnostic deep reinforcement learning framework for effective Sim2Real transfer towards autonomous driving
Authors: Li Dianzhao , Okhrin Ostap
Published: October 2024

Autonomous driving presents unique challenges, particularly in transferring agents trained in simulation to real-world environments due to the discrepancies between the two. To address this issue, here we propose a robust Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) framework that incorporates platform-dependent perception modules to extract task-relevant information, enabling the training of a lane-following and overtaking agent in simulation. This framework facilitates the efficient transfer of the DRL agent to new simulated environments and the real world with minimal adjustments. We assess the performance of the agent across various driving scenarios in both simulation and the real world, comparing it to human drivers and a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) baseline in simulation. Additionally, we contrast it with other DRL baselines to clarify the rationale behind choosing this framework. Our proposed approach helps bridge the gaps between different platforms and the Simulation to Reality (Sim2Real) gap, allowing the trained agent to perform consistently in both simulation and real-world scenarios, effectively driving the vehicle.
A never-ending story of reforms: on the wicked nature of the Common Agricultural Policy
Authors: Mennig Philipp
Published: October 2024

In early 2024, European farmers protested against the current agricultural system and mainly the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), criticising its restrictive regulations. While economic theory has explained the CAP design by focusing on agricultural sector peculiarities, it overlooks social and political factors complicating agricultural policy-making. This perspective develops a multifactorial framework to address these complexities and highlights the need for better collaboration, communication, and empirical, interdisciplinary evidence for successful agricultural policy-making.
Autophagy adaptors mediate Parkin-dependent mitophagy by forming sheet-like liquid condensates
Authors: Yang Zi , Yoshii Saori R , Sakai Yuji , Zhang Jing , Chino Haruka , Knorr Roland L , Mizushima Noboru
Published: October 2024

During PINK1- and Parkin-mediated mitophagy, autophagy adaptors are recruited to damaged mitochondria to promote their selective degradation. Autophagy adaptors such as optineurin (OPTN) and NDP52 facilitate mitophagy by recruiting the autophagy-initiation machinery, and assisting engulfment of damaged mitochondria through binding to ubiquitinated mitochondrial proteins and autophagosomal ATG8 family proteins. Here, we demonstrate that OPTN and NDP52 form sheet-like phase-separated condensates with liquid-like properties on the surface of ubiquitinated mitochondria. The dynamic and liquid-like nature of OPTN condensates is important for mitophagy activity, because reducing the fluidity of OPTN-ubiquitin condensates suppresses the recruitment of ATG9 vesicles and impairs mitophagy. Based on these results, we propose a dynamic liquid-like, rather than a stoichiometric, model of autophagy adaptors to explain the interactions between autophagic membranes (i.e., ATG9 vesicles and isolation membranes) and mitochondrial membranes during Parkin-mediated mitophagy. This model underscores the importance of liquid-liquid phase separation in facilitating membrane-membrane contacts, likely through the generation of capillary forces.
An Orai1 gain-of-function tubular aggregate myopathy mouse model phenocopies key features of the human disease
Authors: Zhao Nan , Michelucci Antonio , Pietrangelo Laura , Malik Sundeep , Groom Linda , Leigh Jennifer , O’Connor Thomas N , Takano Takahiro , Kingsley Paul D , Palis James , Boncompagni Simona , Protasi Feliciano , Dirksen Robert T
Published: October 2024

Tubular aggregate myopathy (TAM) is a heritable myopathy primarily characterized by progressive muscle weakness, elevated levels of creatine kinase (CK), hypocalcemia, exercise intolerance, and the presence of tubular aggregates (TAs). Here, we generated a knock-in mouse model based on a human gain-of-function mutation which results in a severe, early-onset form of TAM, by inducing a glycine-to-serine point mutation in the ORAI1 pore (Orai1G100S/+ or GS mice). By 8 months of age, GS mice exhibited significant muscle weakness, exercise intolerance, elevated CK levels, hypocalcemia, and robust TA presence. Unexpectedly, constitutive Ca2+ entry in mutant mice was observed in muscle only during early development and was abolished in adult skeletal muscle, partly due to reduced ORAI1 expression. Consistent with proteomic results, significant mitochondrial damage and dysfunction was observed in skeletal muscle of GS mice. Thus, GS mice represent a powerful model for investigation of the pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie key TAM symptoms, as well as those compensatory responses that limit the damaging effects of uncontrolled ORAI1-mediated Ca2+ influx.
Wharton's jelly of the umbilical cord serves as a natural biomaterial to promote osteogenesis
Authors: Fu Yu-Show , Tsai Shang-Wen , Tong Zhen-Jie , Yeh Chang-Ching , Chen Tien-Hua , Chen Cheng-Fong
Published: October 2024

Wharton’s Jelly in umbilical cord was prepared into WJF with MSCs and WJD without MSCs. WJF/WJD could act as great scaffolds to promote new bone formation and serve as natural therapeutic medical materials for bone regeneration.
Sensitive and specific detection of trace Al3+ ions using an upconversion nanoparticle–xylenol orange complex via the inner filter effect
Authors: Jiang Rui , Wang Jinfeng , Feng Bin , Mou Panpan , Zhou Shuo , Zhang Xianbo , Zhou Yan , Chen Guosong , Lin Donghai
Published: October 2024

We have developed a novel fluorescence sensor based on upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for the rapid and sensitive detection of trace aluminum ions (Al3+).
A portable fluorescence sensing system for timely onsite perfluorooctane sulfonate detection based on an aggregate induced emission fluorescence sensor
Authors: Wang Bin , Yu Yaning , Zhao Rongxu , Yan Liang , Tan Tingfeng , Chen Peiyao , Ma Chao
Published: October 2024

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a ubiquitous persistent organic pollutant, has aroused growing concern due to its adverse effects on human health.
Retraction: Soft nanotubes acting as confinement effecters and chirality inducers for achiral polythiophenes
Authors: Kameta Naohiro , Masuda Mitsutoshi , Shimizu Toshimi
Published: October 2024

Retraction of ‘Soft nanotubes acting as confinement effecters and chirality inducers for achiral polythiophenes’ by Naohiro Kameta et al., Chem. Commun., 2016, 52, 1346–1349, https://doi.org/10.1039/C5CC08035E.
Spectra to structure: contrastive learning framework for library ranking and generating molecular structures for infrared spectra
Authors: Kanakala Ganesh Chandan , Sridharan Bhuvanesh , Priyakumar U. Deva
Published: October 2024

We propose SMEN (Spectra and Molecule Encoder Network), a framework for scoring molecules against given IR spectra.
Tunability of triplet excited states and photophysical behaviour of bis-cyclometalated iridium(iii) complexes with imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline
Authors: Choroba Katarzyna , Palion-Gazda Joanna , Penkala Mateusz , Rawicka Patrycja , Machura Barbara
Published: October 2024

The impact of cyclometalating ligands on the photophysical behaviour of heteroleptic Ir(iii) complexes with imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline. [Ir(ppy)2(imphen)]+ is a 3MLLCT emitter, while [Ir(pybzth)2(imphen)]+ has a predominant 3LCN∩C character.
Novel dinuclear open paddle-wheel-like copper complexes involving π-stacking on the basis of chiral binaphthyl phosphoric acid {(R)-PhosH}: structural, magnetic and optical properties
Authors: Rodríguez Humberto A. , Cruz Daniel A. , Lavín Víctor , Padrón Juan I. , Lorenzo-Luis Pablo
Published: October 2024

This work presents a new binaphthyl phosphate scaffold with a first-row transition metal, copper(ii), and its outstanding luminescence properties.
Cascaded utilization of magnetite nanoparticles@onion-like carbons from wastewater purification to supercapacitive energy storage
Authors: Jiao Xin , Xiao Min , Cai Fengshi , Fan Yingchun , Meng Shuaipeng , Guan Xiude , Wang Huiquan , Zhang Chenguang
Published: October 2024

Insufficiently etched interconnected Fe3O4@OLCs served as a magnetic adsorbent for removing MB from wastewater and was further processed into supercapacitor materials, achieving its cascaded utilization.
Techno-economic insights and deployment prospects of permanent carbon dioxide sequestration in solid carbonates
Authors: Mühlbauer Andreas , Keiner Dominik , Breyer Christian
Published: October 2024

While a rapid defossilisation of the energy system is the highest priority, additional post-fossil CDR for net-negative emissions will be necessary. Routes for mineralisation (in situ-, ex situ mineralisation, enhanced rock weathering) are examined.
Enhanced removal efficiency of Tetradesmus obliquus for nevirapine removal via co-substrate supplementation: removal mechanisms, relative gene expression and metabolomics
Authors: Reddy Karen , Renuka Nirmal , Malla Muneer Ahmad , Moodley Brenda , Bux Faizal , Kumari Sheena
Published: October 2024

The bioremediation of pharmaceutical wastewater by microalgae has gained scientific attention due to its cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness.
Up-regulation of myelin-associated glycoprotein is associated with the ameliorating effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on Alzheimer's disease progression in APP–PS1 transgenic mice
Authors: Shao Yan , Li Fei , Zou Bo , Jin Yanling , Wang Xiaoyang , Wang Liting , Huang Youying , Xie Yu , Sun Wei , Kang Jing X. , Liu Kai , Huang Yi , Huang Wei , Wang Bin
Published: October 2024

Our study showed that MAG upregulation might be the new regulatory mechanism for omega-3 PUFAs to exert AD protective effects, which is helpful for expanding our understanding of the health-promoting effects of omega-3 PUFAs.
Ferroelectric-enabled significant carbon dioxide molecular adsorption on BaTiO3(001)
Authors: Iancu Alexandru-Cristi , Lungu George A. , Tache Cristian A. , Teodorescu Cristian M.
Published: October 2024

Carbon dioxide is reversibly adsorbed and desorbed from ferroelectric (001) oriented, BaO-terminated barium titanate, as revealed in real time by high resolution ultrafast photoelectron spectroscopy and certified by low energy electron diffraction.
Design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationship studies of 6H-benzo[b]indeno[1,2-d]thiophen-6-one derivatives as DYRK1A/CLK1/CLK4/haspin inhibitors
Authors: Faouzi Abdelfattah , Arnaud Alexandre , Hallé François , Roussel Jean , Aymard Mandy , Denavit Vincent , Do Cong Viet , Mularoni Angélique , Salah Mohamed , ElHady Ahmed , Pham Thanh-Nhat , Bancet Alexandre , Le Borgne Marc , Terreux Raphaël , Barret Roland , Engel Matthias , Lomberget Thierry
Published: October 2024

A series of sulfur-containing tetracycles was designed and evaluated for their ability to inhibit protein kinase DYRK1A, a target known to have several potential therapeutic applications including cancers, Down syndrome or Alzheimer's disease.
Enhanced glucose-responsivity of PBA–diol hydrogel networks by reducing crosslink affinity
Authors: Xian Sijie , Xiang Yuanhui , Deichmann Svenja , Webber Matthew J.
Published: October 2024

New diol chemistries are explored for insulin delivery from glucose-responsive hydrogels comprised of dynamic-covalent crosslinking interactions between phenylboronic acids and diols.
Visualizing separation at composite interfaces via spirolactam mechanophores
Authors: Gohl Jared A. , Roberts Tyler J. , Freund Anna C. , Haque Nazmul , Rueschhoff Lisa M. , Baldwin Luke A. , Davis Chelsea S.
Published: October 2024

By covalently attaching spirolactam at the interface of a glass/epoxy composite, we observe real time interfacial mechanophore activation via fluorescence.
SnS/MnSe heterostructures for enhanced optoelectronics and dielectric applications
Authors: Parida Abinash , Samal Satish Kumar , Chinnaiah Sripan , Naik Ramakanta
Published: October 2024

We report the synthesis of the SnS/MnSe heterostructure which shows a low bandgap of 0.4 eV with good electrical and dielectric properties useful for optoelectronics and dielectric applications.
Magnetic-assisted sequential templated self-assembly of hybrid colloid nanoparticle systems
Authors: Laghrissi Ayoub , Juodėnas Mindaugas , Tamulevičius Tomas , Kunstmann Casper , Rubahn Horst-Günter , Fiutowski Jacek
Published: October 2024

The assembly of hybrid nanoparticles is a pioneering route for developing nanoscale functional devices, including targeted drug delivery systems.
Synthesis of 1,4-benzodioxepines via electrochemical oxyselenenylation of 2-O-tethered alkenyl phenylmethanol and diselenides
Authors: Hou Junsheng , You Bingxin , Lv Ruiqi , Zhang Xinxin , Shen Jinyang , Li Jiaojiao , Zuo Xi , Liu Qiang
Published: October 2024

A methodology for the synthesis of 1,4-benzodioxepines has been developed via electrochemical oxyselenenylation of 2-O-tethered alkenyl phenylmethanol and diselenides.
Visible-light heterogeneous photocatalysis with an ionic porous organic polymer (IPOP): synthesis of β-keto sulfoxides and benzothiophene diesters by tandem radical addition–oxidation reactions
Authors: Sahoo Ajay Kumar , Tamuly Parag , Moorthy Jarugu Narasimha
Published: October 2024

An IPOP, constructed constructed from cyanuric chloride and the readily accessible 2,5-di(pyridin-4-yl)thiazolo[5,4-d]thiazole (BpyTzTz), is shown to exhibit excellent visible light absorption and serve as a metal-free heterogeneous photocatalyst.
Four-component radical-polar crossover cyclization involving double insertion of SO2 to β-sulfonyl sultines
Authors: Ma Xinyue , Zhang Yongxin , Fang Xing , Yang Xiaoxiao , Zhou Pan , Lu Shuaiqi , Shu Chao
Published: October 2024

An unprecedented four-component radical-polar crossover cyclization (RPCC) protocol involving double insertion of SO2 was developed. Various sulfonium salts and alkyl boronic acids were transformed into functionalized β-sulfonyl sultines with S(iv) and S(vi) centers.
A review on recent progress and techniques used for fabricating superhydrophobic coatings derived from biobased materials
Authors: Shigrekar Mugdha , Amdoskar Vaijayanti
Published: October 2024

Superhydrophobic coatings with remarkable water repellence have emerged as an increasingly prominent field of research with the growth of the material engineering and coating industries.
Cu-doped calcium phosphate supraparticles for bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Höppel Anika , Bahr Olivia , Ebert Regina , Wittmer Annette , Seidenstuecker Michael , Carolina Lanzino M. , Gbureck Uwe , Dembski Sofia
Published: October 2024

Antibacterial, biodegradable spray dried Cu-doped CaP supraparticles with high cell viability show great potential as bone substitute materials.
Metal–organic framework-derived nanoflower and nanoflake metal oxides as electrocatalysts for methanol oxidation
Authors: Kamal W. , Allah Abeer Enaiet , Mahmoud Rehab , Farghali Ahmed A. , Kotp Amna A. , Abdelwahab Abdalla
Published: October 2024

The energy crisis is the most urgent issue facing contemporary society and needs to be given top priority.
Research progress of Mn-based low-temperature SCR denitrification catalysts
Authors: Zhang Jiadong , Ma Zengyi , Cao Ang , Yan Jianhua , Wang Yuelan , Yu Miao , Hu Linlin , Pan Shaojing
Published: October 2024

This article investigates the denitrification efficiency of unsupported/supported manganese-based catalysts. The reaction mechanism of Mn-based catalysts and the mechanism of SO2/H2O poisoning are analysed, and the development of practical and efficient Mn-based catalysts is considered.
Development of a selective COX-2 inhibitor: from synthesis to enhanced efficacy via nano-formulation
Authors: Elewa Marwa , Shehda Mohamed , Hanna Pierre A. , Said Mohamed M. , Ramadan Sherif , Barakat Assem , Abdel Aziz Yasmine M.
Published: October 2024

This study designs novel 2-benzamido-N-(4-substituted phenyl)thiophene-3-carboxamide derivatives as selective COX-2 inhibitors. Compound VIIa showed strong in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, and incorporating it into niosomes improved its release profile for future in vivo use.
Synthesis and characterization of novel uranyl clusters supported by bis(pyrazolyl) methane ligands: biomimetic catalytic oxidation, BSA protein interaction and cytotoxicity studies
Authors: S. Nakul , R. Bhagavathish , Kulkarni Naveen V. , Patil Ajeetkumar , Arakera Suresh B. , John Sam
Published: October 2024

Bis(pyrazolyl) methane supported uranyl complexes were explored for catalytic and biological applications.
Smart membranes for separation and sensing
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Gengwu , Al Mohawes Khozama Bader , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: October 2024

This review summarizes the advancements in smart membrane applications for sensing and separation, along with the fabrication methods and types of stimuli involved.
Photo-induced drug release at interfaces with arylazopyrazoles
Authors: Pani Ipsita , Hardt Michael , Glikman Dana , Braunschweig Björn
Published: October 2024

Using interface-sensitive techniques, we investigated the photoresponsive release of the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin from micellar nanocarriers of arylazopyrazole photosurfactants at the air–water interface as well as bulk aqueous solution.
Entropy in catalyst dynamics under confinement
Authors: Fan Qi-Yuan , Liu Yun-Pei , Zhu Hao-Xuan , Gong Fu-Qiang , Wang Ye , E Weinan , Bao Xinhe , Tian Zhong-Qun , Cheng Jun
Published: October 2024

We use an active learning scheme for free energy calculations to investigate catalyst dynamics under confinement, and find that confinement enhances the structural dynamics of catalysts, enabling the reactions to proceed under milder conditions.
A hot exciton organic glassy scintillator for high-resolution X-ray imaging
Authors: Yang Xi , Chen Jingru , Zhang Yang , Di Yiming , Zhang Guozhen , Chen Songhua , Chen Hongming , Lin Mei-Jin
Published: October 2024

A large-area organic hot exciton glassy scintillator screen was developed for the first time, which features high light yield, high transmittance, and fast response. Applied to X-ray imaging, it achieves a spatial resolution of 38.5 lp mm−1.
Peroxidase-mimicking Prussian blue nanoparticles versus HRP for high colorimetric detection of miRNA-141 in competitive RNA–RNA systems
Authors: El Aamri Maliana , Mohammadi Hasna , Amine Aziz
Published: October 2024

Schematic illustration of developed biosensor for miRNA-141 detection based on the peroxidase-mimicking Prussian blue nanoparticles
Mechanical characterization of freestanding lipid bilayers with temperature-controlled phase
Authors: Yahyazadeh Shourabi Arash , Kieffer Roland , de Jong Djanick , Tam Daniel , Aubin-Tam Marie-Eve
Published: October 2024

Lipid membranes formed in a microfluidic device are studied with temperature-controlled optical tweezers, revealing how mechanical properties of ripple phase and gel-fluid phase-separated membranes change when heated above the transition temperature.
The impact of cross-linker distribution on magnetic nanogels: encapsulation, transport and controlled release of the tracer
Authors: Novikau Ivan S. , Novak Ekaterina V. , Kantorovich Sofia S.
Published: October 2024

Differences in crosslinker concentration between the core and periphery of a magnetic nanogel slow down the release of a non-magnetic cargo.
Enhanced water splitting kinetics using MgFeO3/MXene/VS2 hybrid bifunctional catalysts
Authors: Hussain Sajjad , Vikraman Dhanasekaran , Sheikh Zulfqar Ali , Aftab Sikandar , Nazir Ghazanfar , Shaikh Shoyebmohamad F. , Kim Deok-Kee , Kim Hyun-Seok , Jung Jongwan
Published: October 2024

Hydrothermal reaction to derive cubic MgFeO3 wrapped VS2/MXene hybrid structures. MgFeO3/MXene/VS2 showed a robust water-splitting reaction with a 1.47 V cell voltage.
Disturbing microtubule-endoplasmic reticulum dynamics by gold nanoclusters for improved triple-negative breast cancer treatment
Authors: Cao Kai , Luo Kaidi , Zheng Yichen , Xue Liyuan , Huo Wendi , Ruan Panpan , Wang Yuchen , Xue Yilin , Yao Xiuxiu , Xia Dongfang , Gao Xueyun
Published: October 2024

Gold nanocluster GA acts as a docetaxel sensitizer to promote ER stress and microtubule dysregulation, leading to significant tumor cell death and promoting anti-tumor cytokine production in treating triple-negative breast cancer.
Highly porous polycaprolactone microspheres for skeletal repair promote a mature bone cell phenotype in vitro
Authors: Paterson Thomas E. , Owen Robert , Sherborne Colin , Bahmaee Hossein , Harding Amy L. , Green Nicola H. , Reilly Gwendolen C. , Claeyssens Frederik
Published: October 2024

Porous, biodegradable polycaprolactone microspheres support mesenchymal progenitor cell growth and differentiation. Only cells inside the microspheres differentiate into an osteocyte-like phenotype, indicating the role of physical environmental cues.
Low-voltage operated organic thin film transistors and integrated devices with photo-cured and patterned siloxane based organic–inorganic hybrid high-k dielectrics
Authors: Wang Rixuan , Nhung Le Hong , Tang Xiaowu , Ye Heqing , Li Zhijun , Kwon Hyeok-jin , Kim Juyoung , Kim Se Hyun
Published: October 2024

New kinds of UV-patternable organic–inorganic high-k sol–gel materials were synthesized and applied in low-voltage operation organic electronic devices.
p-Type β-Ga2O3 film room-temperature NH3 gas sensors with fast gas sensing and a low limit of detection
Authors: Zhai Hongchao , Wu Zhengyuan , Xiao Kai , Ge Meiying , Liu Chenxing , Tian Pengfei , Wan Jing , Wang Jianlu , Kang Junyong , Chu Junhao , Fang Zhilai
Published: October 2024

p-Type β-Ga2O3 films room-temperature NH3 sensors possess fast gas sensing and low limit of detection due to the fast exothermic reactions between NH3 gas and surface hole accumulation layer.
“Sweet” detectives: children crack the case for a healthy future
Authors: Terry Cassandra , Meimaridou Eirini , Jorfi Samireh , Ramchurn Medah , Encinas Mabel
Published: October 2024

To coincide with British Science Week, we ran an outreach activity in March 2024 with several year 5 and 6 (ages 9–11) classes at Whitehall Park School in Islington, London. Cases of type 2 diabetes are on the increase in children, so we wanted to raise awareness of diabetes and discuss the importance of healthy living as prevention. We also wanted to promote the work of scientists and show the diversity of those working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines. We did this through a range of accessible, fun hands-on interactive activities such as getting children to play the role of scientists to test the sugar content of popular soft drinks. Through these activities and by collecting feedback, we learnt how much children already knew about healthy living and diabetes and recorded how much they learnt from doing our activity. Children said they enjoyed the activity, and we received positive feedback from teachers. This feedback will help inform our future diabetes research and improve our communications with the public and local communities. Due to the success of these activities, we plan to take them to more schools across London in the near future.
Celebrating our 2024 Biennial International LRRK2 Meeting winners
Authors: Ollett Lucy
Published: October 2024

2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the cloning of the Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene, and the field is witnessing major advances in our understanding of its function, its role in human disease and therapeutic intervention. The latest edition of the Biennial International LRRK2 Meeting was held from 18 to 21 June 2024 at the Aquila Atlantis Hotel in Crete, Greece, and showcased cutting-edge research of this key protein, the most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s disease. Kindly sponsored by the Biochemical Journal, Nevia Dule and Georgios Tsafaras were both presented with prizes for their outstanding poster presentations. Lucy Ollett, Grants and Awards Manager at the Biochemical Society, caught up with them to discover more about their work.
Maximizing the “Functional” in the Functional External Memory Aid Tool for Patient-Centered Treatment Planning in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Lanzi Alyssa M. , Mendez Julia L. , Tobin Megan , Johnson Melissa A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The Functional External Memory Aid Tool (FEMAT) is an 11-item performance-based measure that simulates everyday tasks (e.g., medication management) to measure one's use of compensation (e.g., pill organizer). The FEMAT is not a norm-referenced diagnostic tool; rather, it is designed to provide clinicians with information about a patient's function and compensation in a standardized format. To provide further evidence for validity of the FEMAT, the purpose of this study was to conduct a mixed-methods analysis of FEMAT responses to operationalize the types of behaviors elicited during test administration.

Method:

We adopted an embedded single-case study design to analyze the FEMAT administrations of 12 community-dwelling female participants, ages 73–90 years, who met criteria for mild cognitive impairment. These participants were part of the original validation sample during which they completed the FEMAT (Version 1.0) in a single session with an assessor. Sessions were video-recorded and transcribed. We analyzed the data qualitatively in two phases using theme and subtheme codes and then quantitatively analyzed the data for response trends.

Results:

Our thematic analysis revealed four themes to operationalize participants' verbal and behavioral FEMAT responses: (a) used an external memory aid (EMA), (b) described using a strategy, (c) discussed memory and comprehension, and (d) discussed functional information. While completing the FEMAT, most participants described using a strategy (85%) and discussed their self-perceived memory and comprehension (33%). Several subthemes also emerged within each theme (e.g., self-perceived memory strengths and barrier).

Conclusions:

Our analysis suggests that beyond a 4-point item score, the FEMAT elicits behavioral (e.g., used an EMA) and verbal (e.g., discussion of health information) content that may be useful for person-centered treatment planning. This study is part of a comprehensive research agenda establishing the evidence for the validity of the FEMAT to support its use to inform person-centered treatment approaches.
Divided Attention Has Limited Effects on Speech Sensorimotor Control
Authors: Krakauer Jenna , Naber Chris , Niziolek Caroline A. , Parrell Benjamin
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

When vowel formants are externally perturbed, speakers change their production to oppose that perturbation both during the ongoing production (compensation) and in future productions (adaptation). To date, attempts to explain the large variability across individuals in these responses have focused on trait-based characteristics such as auditory acuity, but evidence from other motor domains suggests that attention may modulate the motor response to sensory perturbations. Here, we test the extent to which divided attention impacts sensorimotor control for supralaryngeal articulation.

Method:

Neurobiologically healthy speakers were exposed to random (Experiment 1) or consistent (Experiment 2) real-time auditory perturbation of vowel formants to measure online compensation and trial-to-trial adaptation, respectively. In both experiments, participants completed two conditions: one with a simultaneous visual distractor task to divide attention and one without this secondary task.

Results:

Divided visual attention slightly reduced online compensation, but only starting > 300 ms after vowel onset, well beyond the typical duration of vowels in speech. Divided attention had no effect on adaptation.

Conclusions:

The results from both experiments suggest that the use of sensory feedback in typical speech motor control is a largely automatic process unaffected by divided visual attention, suggesting that the source of cross-speaker variability in response to formant perturbations likely lies within the speech production system rather than in higher-level cognitive processes. Methodologically, these results suggest that compensation for formant perturbations should be measured prior to 300 ms after vowel onset to avoid any potential impact of attention or other higher-order cognitive factors.
Language Profiles of School-Age Children With 16p11.2 Copy Number Variants in a Clinically Ascertained Cohort
Authors: Verbesselt Jente , Breckpot Jeroen , Zink Inge , Swillen Ann
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

Individuals with proximal 16p11.2 copy number variants (CNVs), either deletions (16p11.2DS) or duplications (16p11.2Dup), are predisposed to neurodevelopmental difficulties and disorders, such as language disorders, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder. The purpose of the current study was to characterize language profiles of school-age children with proximal 16p11.2 CNVs, in relation to the normative sample and unaffected siblings of children with 16p11.2DS.

Method:

Standardized language tests were conducted in 33 school-age children with BP4–BP5 16p11.2 CNVs and eight unaffected siblings of children with 16p11.2DS to evaluate language production and comprehension skills across various language domains. A standardized intelligence test was also administered, and parents completed a standardized questionnaire to assess autistic traits. Language profiles were compared across 16p11.2 CNVs and intrafamilial pairs. The influence of nonverbal intelligence and autistic traits on language outcomes was investigated.

Results:

No significant differences were found between children with 16p11.2DS and those with 16p11.2Dup, although both groups exhibited significantly poorer language skills compared to the normative sample and unaffected siblings of children with 16p11.2DS. Severe language deficits were identified in 70% of individuals with 16p11.2 CNVs across all language subdomains, with significantly better receptive vocabulary skills than overall receptive language abilities. In children with 16p11.2DS, expressive language deficits were more pronounced than receptive deficits. In contrast, only in children with 16p11.2Dup did nonverbal intelligence influence their language outcomes.

Conclusions:

The current study contributes to the deeper understanding of language profiles in 16p11.2 CNVs in a clinically ascertained cohort, indicating generalized deficits across multiple language domains, rather than a syndrome-specific pattern targeting specific subdomains. The findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and monitoring of language skills in children with 16p11.2 CNVs.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27228702
Forecasting masked‐load with invisible distributed energy resources based on transfer learning and Bayesian tuning
Authors: Zhou Ziyan , Ren Chao , Xu Yan
Published: October 2024

Load forecasting with distributed energy resources (DERs) behind‐the‐meter is more challenging owing to transformed data patterns. Traditional forecasting method which is only based on unmasked‐load could not suit the present limited masked‐load. To bridge the divergence between unmasked‐load and masked‐load, this article proposes a masked‐load forecasting (MLF) method based on transfer learning technique and Bayesian optimization, which is Maximum Mean Discrepancy‐Neural Network with Bayesian optimization (MMD‐NNb). At first, common feature vectors between unmasked‐load and masked‐load are extracted and an outcome predictor could be established based on feature vectors from historical unmasked‐load. The feature vectors from masked‐load could therefore accommodate to the outcome predictor, and the masked‐load could be forecast. Owing to the excessive hyperparameters involved in training, Bayesian optimization is adopted for hyperparameters fine‐tuning. MMD‐NNb was tested and compared with four related models. The improvements from MMD‐NNb were observed in all comparison scenarios. Also, MMD‐NNb was proved to have high resilience to the different DERs and not requiring additional DERs‐data.
Anticancer effect of surface functionalized nano titanium dioxide with 5‐fluorouracil on oral cancer cell line—An in vitro study
Authors: Rivera Rodriguez Marco Antonio , Campos‐Ibarra Verónica , Rasu Chettiar Aruna‐Devi , Marasamy Latha , Manisekaran Ravichandran
Published: October 2024

5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used to treat different types of cancers. However, many patients present with obstacles during treatment due to 5‐FU drug resistance. To overcome these drawbacks, a novel drug‐loaded nanocarrier (NC) comprising titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles surface functionalized with 5‐FU to facilitate drug delivery is developed. This study designs and evaluates the antitumour effects of NCs in oral cancer (OC) cell lines of lymphoid origin. NCs were synthesized by biofunctionalization of TiO2 nanoparticles with 3‐aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) which was then loaded with 5‐FU. in vitro drug release was determined at three different pH values. The effect of chemotherapy was studied in mono‐ and co‐culture systems comprising OC cells and human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs). From these studies, it is noted that after 24 h in an acidic medium (pH 5.5), more than 80% of 5‐FU was released compared to that at basic pH. The cytotoxicity was higher when 5‐FU was combined with the system TiO2‐APTES, in comparison with 5‐FU alone was used. The drug‐loaded NC showed an increased antitumour effect in the OC cell line with minimal cytotoxicity to hGFs. The anticancer effect of TiO2/5‐FU could be highly effective in the tumour microenvironment.
ESO 137–001: A jellyfish galaxy model
Authors: Vollmer B. , Sun M. , Jachym P. , Fossati M. , Boselli A.
Published: October 2024

Ram-pressure stripping of the spiral galaxy ESO 137−001 within the highly dynamical intracluster medium (ICM) of the Norma cluster lead to spectacular extraplanar CO, optical, Hα, UV, and X-ray emission. The Hα and X-ray tails extend up to 80 kpc from the galactic disk. We present dynamical simulations of the ram-pressure stripping event, and investigate the physics of the stripped gas and its ability to form stars. We also use these simulations to predict H I maps and to constrain the orbit of ESO 137−001 within the Norma cluster. Special care was taken for the stripping of the diffuse gas. In a new approach, we analytically estimate the mixing between the intracluster and interstellar media. Different temporal ram-pressure profiles and the ICM-ISM mixing rate were tested. Three preferred models show most of the observed multiwavelength characteristics of ESO 137−001. Our highest-ranked model best reproduces the CO emission distribution, velocity for distances of ≲20 kpc from the galactic disk, and the available near-ultraviolet (NUV) observations. The second and third preferred models best reproduce the available X-ray and Hα observations of the gas tail, including the Hα velocity field. The angle between the direction of the galaxy’s motion and the plane of the galactic disk is between 60° and 75°. Ram-pressure stripping thus occurs more face-on. The existence of a two-tailed structure is a common feature in our models, and is due to the combined action of ram pressure and rotation together with the projection of the galaxy on the sky. Our modeling of the Hα emission caused by ionization through thermal conduction is consistent with observations. We predict the H I emission distributions for the different models. Based on the 3D velocity vector derived from our dynamical model, we derive a galaxy orbit, which is close to unbound. We argue that ram pressure is enhanced by a factor of ∼2.5 compared to that expected for an orbit in an unperturbed spherical ICM. This increase can be obtained in two ways: an increase in the ICM density or a moving ICM opposite to the motion of the galaxy within the cluster. In a strongly perturbed galaxy cluster, such as the Norma cluster, with an off-center ICM distribution, the two possibilities are probable and plausible.
The Lyman alpha reference sample. XV. Relating ionised gas kinematics with Lyman-alpha observables
Authors: Herenz E.C. , Schaible A. , Laursen P. , Runnholm A. , Melinder J. , Le Reste A. , Hayes M.J. , Ostlin G. , Cannon J. , Micheva G. , Roth M. , Saha K.
Published: October 2024

Gas kinematics affect the radiative transfer and escape of hydrogen Lyman-alpha (Lyalpha ) emission from galaxies. We investigate this interplay empirically by relating the ionised gas kinematics of 42 galaxies in the extended Lyalpha Reference Sample (eLARS) with their Lyalpha escape fractions, $f_ esc Ly alpha $, Lyalpha equivalent widths, $ EW Ly alpha $, and Lyalpha luminosities, $L_ Ly alpha $. To this aim we use PMAS integral-field spectroscopic observations of the Balmer-alpha line. Our sample contains 18 rotating discs, 13 perturbed rotators, and 13 galaxies with more complex kinematics. The distributions of $f_ esc Ly alpha EW Ly alpha $, and $L_ Ly alpha $ do not differ significantly between these kinematical classes, but the largest Lyalpha observables are found amongst the kinematically complex systems. We find no trends between either $f_ esc Ly alpha $ or $ EW Ly alpha $ and kinematic or photometric inclinations. We calculate shearing velocities, $v_ shear $, and intrinsic velocity dispersions, $ obs obs $) and more than half of the sources show dispersion-dominated kinematics. We uncover clear trends between Lyalpha observables and global kinematical statistics: $ EW Ly alpha $ and $L_ Ly alpha $ correlate with $ obs $, while $f_ esc Ly alpha $ anti-correlates with $v_ shear $ and $v_ shear obs $. Moreover, we find, that galaxies with $ EW Ly alpha are characterised by higher $ and lower $v_ shear obs $ than galaxies below this threshold. We discuss the statistical importance of $v_ shear obs $, and $v_ shear obs $ for regulating the Lyalpha observables in comparison to other galaxy parameters. It emerges that $ obs $ is the dominating parameter for regulating $ EW Ly alpha $ and that is as important as nebular extinction, gas covering fraction, and ionising photon production efficiency in regulating $f_ esc Ly alpha $. A simple scenario where the starburst age is simultaneously regulating turbulence, $ EW Ly alpha $, and $f_ esc esc $ is not supported by our observations. However, we show that the small-scale distribution of dust appears to be influenced by turbulence in some galaxies. In support of our observational result, we discuss how turbulence is theoretically expected to play a significant role in modulating $f_ esc Ly alpha
Transverse clues on the kiloparsec-scale structure of the circumgalactic medium as traced by C IV absorption
Authors: Lopez S. , Afruni A. , Zamora D. , Tejos N. , Ledoux C. , Hernandez J. , Berg T. A. M. , Cortes H. , Urbina F. , Johnston E. J. , Barrientos L. F. , Bayliss M. B. , Cuellar R. , Krogager J. K. , Noterdaeme P. , Solimano M.
Published: October 2024

The kiloparsec-scale kinematics and density structure of the circumgalactic medium (CGM) is still poorly constrained observationally, which poses a problem for understanding the role of the baryon cycle in galaxy evolution. Here we present VLT/MUSE integral-field spectroscopy (R ≈ 1800) of four giant gravitational arcs exhibiting W0 ≳ 0.2 Å C IV absorption at eight intervening redshifts, zabs ≈ 2.0–2.5. We detected C IV absorption in a total of 222 adjacent and seeing-uncorrelated sight lines whose spectra sample beams of (“de-lensed”) linear size ≈1 kpc. Our data show that (1) absorption velocities cluster at all probed transverse scales, Δr⊥ ≈ 0–15 kpc, depending on system; (2) the (transverse) velocity dispersion never exceeds the mean (line-of-sight) absorption spread; and (3) the (transverse) velocity autocorrelation function does not resolve kinematic patterns at the above spatial scales, but its velocity projection, ξarc(Δv), exhibits a similar shape to the known two-point correlation function toward quasars, ξQSO(Δv). An empirical kinematic model suggests that these results are a natural consequence of wide-beam observations of an unresolved clumpy medium. Our model recovers both the underlying velocity dispersion of the clumps (70–170 km s−1) and the mean number of clumps per unit area (2–13 kpc−2). The latter constrains the projected mean inter-clump distance to within ≈0.3–0.8 kpc, which we argue is a measure of clump size for a near-unity covering fraction. The model is also able to predict ξarc(Δv) from ξQSO(Δv), suggesting that the strong systems that shape ξarc(Δv) and the line-of-sight velocity components that define ξQSO(Δv) trace the same kinematic population. Consequently, the clumps must possess an internal density structure that generates both weak and strong components. We discuss how our interpretation is consistent with previous observations using background galaxies and multiple quasars as well as its implications for the connection between the small-scale kinematic structure of the CGM and galactic-scale accretion and feedback processes.
Slim-disk modeling reveals an accreting intermediate-mass black hole in the luminous fast blue optical transient AT2018cow
Authors: Cao Zheng , Jonker Peter G. , Wen Sixiang , Zabludoff Ann I.
Published: October 2024

The origin of the most luminous subclass of the fast blue optical transients (LFBOTs) is still unknown. We present an X-ray spectral analysis of AT2018cow – the LFBOT archetype – using NuSTAR, Swift, and XMM-Newton data. The source spectrum can be explained by the presence of a slim accretion disk, and we find that the mass accretion rate decreases to sub–Eddington levels ≳200 days after the source’s discovery. Applying our slim-disk model to data obtained at multiple observational epochs, we constrain the mass of the central compact object in AT2018cow to be log(M•/M⊙) = 2.4−0.1+0.6 at the 68% confidence level. Our mass measurement is independent from, but consistent with, the results from previously employed methods. The mass constraint is consistent with both the tidal disruption and the black hole–star merger scenarios, if the latter model can be extrapolated to the measured black hole mass. Our work provides evidence for an accreting intermediate–mass black hole (102 − 106 M⊙) as the central engine in AT2018cow, and, by extension, in LFBOT sources similar to AT2018cow.