bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phonon promoted charge density wave in topological kagome metal ScV6Sn6
Authors: Hu Yong , Ma Junzhang , Li Yinxiang , Jiang Yuxiao , Gawryluk Dariusz Jakub , Hu Tianchen , Teyssier Jérémie , Multian Volodymyr , Yin Zhouyi , Xu Shuxiang , Shin Soohyeon , Plokhikh Igor , Han Xinloong , Plumb Nicholas C. , Liu Yang , Yin Jia-Xin , Guguchia Zurab , Zhao Yue , Schnyder Andreas P. , Wu Xianxin , Pomjakushina Ekaterina , Hasan M. Zahid , Wang Nanlin , Shi Ming
Published: February 2024

Charge density wave (CDW) orders in vanadium-based kagome metals have recently received tremendous attention, yet their origin remains a topic of debate. The discovery of ScV6Sn6, a bilayer kagome metal featuring an intriguing $$\sqrt{3}\times\sqrt{3}\times3$$

3

×

3

×
3
CDW order, offers a novel platform to explore the underlying mechanism behind the unconventional CDW. Here, we combine high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, Raman scattering and density functional theory to investigate the electronic structure and phonon modes of ScV6Sn6. We identify topologically nontrivial surface states and multiple van Hove singularities (VHSs) in the vicinity of the Fermi level, with one VHS aligning with the in-plane component of the CDW vector near the $$\bar{K}$$

K

¯

point. Additionally, Raman measurements indicate a strong electron-phonon coupling, as evidenced by a two-phonon mode and new emergent modes. Our findings highlight the fundamental role of lattice degrees of freedom in promoting the CDW in ScV6Sn6.
Broadband thermal imaging using meta-optics
Authors: Huang Luocheng , Han Zheyi , Wirth-Singh Anna , Saragadam Vishwanath , Mukherjee Saswata , Fröch Johannes E. , Tanguy Quentin A. A. , Rollag Joshua , Gibson Ricky , Hendrickson Joshua R. , Hon Philip W. C. , Kigner Orrin , Coppens Zachary , Böhringer Karl F. , Veeraraghavan Ashok , Majumdar Arka
Published: February 2024

Subwavelength diffractive optics known as meta-optics have demonstrated the potential to significantly miniaturize imaging systems. However, despite impressive demonstrations, most meta-optical imaging systems suffer from strong chromatic aberrations, limiting their utilities. Here, we employ inverse-design to create broadband meta-optics operating in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) regime (8-12 μm). Via a deep-learning assisted multi-scale differentiable framework that links meta-atoms to the phase, we maximize the wavelength-averaged volume under the modulation transfer function (MTF) surface of the meta-optics. Our design framework merges local phase-engineering via meta-atoms and global engineering of the scatterer within a single pipeline. We corroborate our design by fabricating and experimentally characterizing all-silicon LWIR meta-optics. Our engineered meta-optic is complemented by a simple computational backend that dramatically improves the quality of the captured image. We experimentally demonstrate a six-fold improvement of the wavelength-averaged Strehl ratio over the traditional hyperboloid metalens for broadband imaging.
Japanese wolves are most closely related to dogs and share DNA with East Eurasian dogs
Authors: Gojobori Jun , Arakawa Nami , Xiaokaiti Xiayire , Matsumoto Yuki , Matsumura Shuichi , Hongo Hitomi , Ishiguro Naotaka , Terai Yohey
Published: February 2024

Although the domestic dog’s origin is still unclear, this lineage is believed to have been domesticated from an extinct population of gray wolves, which is expected to be more closely related to dogs than to other populations of gray wolves. Here, we sequence the whole genomes of nine Japanese wolves (7.5–100x: Edo to Meiji periods) and 11 modern Japanese dogs and analyze them together with those from other populations of dogs and wolves. A phylogenomic tree shows that, among the gray wolves, Japanese wolves are closest to the dog, suggesting that the ancestor of dogs is closely related to the ancestor of the Japanese wolf. Based on phylogenetic and geographic relationships, the dog lineage has most likely originated in East Asia, where it diverged from a common ancestor with the Japanese wolf. Since East Eurasian dogs possess Japanese wolf ancestry, we estimate an introgression event from the ancestor of the Japanese wolf to the ancestor of the East Eurasian dog that occurred before the dog’s arrival in the Japanese archipelago.
Single cell-transcriptomic analysis informs the lncRNA landscape in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Saha Debanjan , Dang Ha X. , Zhang Meng , Quigley David A. , Feng Felix Y. , Maher Christopher A.
Published: February 2024

Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is a lethal form of prostate cancer. Although long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in mCRPC, past studies have relied on bulk sequencing methods with low depth and lack of single-cell resolution. Hence, we performed a lncRNA-focused analysis of single-cell RNA-sequencing data (n = 14) from mCRPC biopsies followed by integration with bulk multi-omic datasets. This yielded 389 cell-enriched lncRNAs in prostate cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). These lncRNAs demonstrated enrichment with regulatory elements and exhibited alterations during prostate cancer progression. Prostate-lncRNAs were correlated with AR mutational status and response to treatment with enzalutamide, while TME-lncRNAs were associated with RB1 deletions and poor prognosis. Finally, lncRNAs identified between prostate adenocarcinomas and neuroendocrine tumors exhibited distinct expression and methylation profiles. Our findings demonstrate the ability of single-cell analysis to refine our understanding of lncRNAs in mCRPC and serve as a resource for future mechanistic studies.
Rockfall from an increasingly unstable mountain slope driven by climate warming
Authors: Stoffel Markus , Trappmann Daniel G. , Coullie Mattias I. , Ballesteros Cánovas Juan A. , Corona Christophe
Published: February 2024

Rockfall in high-mountain regions is thought to be changing due to accelerating climate warming and permafrost degradation, possibly resulting in enhanced activity and larger volumes involved in individual falls. Yet the systematic lack of long-term observations of rockfall largely hampers an in-depth assessment of how activity may have been altered by a warming climate. Here we compile a continuous time series from 1920 to 2020 of periglacial rockfall activity using growth-ring records from 375 trees damaged by past rockfall at Täschgufer (Swiss Alps). We show that the ongoing warming favours the release of rockfall and that changes in activity correlate significantly with summer air temperatures at interannual and decadal timescales. An initial increase in rockfall occurred in the late 1940s to early 1950s following early twentieth century warming. From the mid-1980s, activity reached new and hitherto unprecedented levels. This long-term record of rockfall activity can help to inform the design of vital mitigation and risk reduction measures in inhabited mountain environments.
Super-sectioning with multi-sheet reversible saturable optical fluorescence transitions (RESOLFT) microscopy
Authors: Bodén Andreas , Ollech Dirk , York Andrew G. , Millett-Sikking Alfred , Testa Ilaria
Published: February 2024

Light-sheet fluorescence microscopy is an invaluable tool for four-dimensional biological imaging of multicellular systems due to the rapid volumetric imaging and minimal illumination dosage. However, it is challenging to retrieve fine subcellular information, especially in living cells, due to the width of the sheet of light (>1 μm). Here, using reversibly switchable fluorescent proteins (RSFPs) and a periodic light pattern for photoswitching, we demonstrate a super-resolution imaging method for rapid volumetric imaging of subcellular structures called multi-sheet RESOLFT. Multiple emission-sheets with a width that is far below the diffraction limit are created in parallel increasing recording speed (1–2 Hz) to provide super-sectioning ability (<100 nm). Our technology is compatible with various RSFPs due to its minimal requirement in the number of switching cycles and can be used to study a plethora of cellular structures. We track cellular processes such as cell division, actin motion and the dynamics of virus-like particles in three dimensions.
Risk factors of recurrence after robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for solitary localized renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Chung Jae Hoon , Song Wan , Kang Minyong , Sung Hyun Hwan , Jeon Hwang Gyun , Jeong Byong Chang , Jeon Seong Soo , Lee Hyun Moo , Seo Seong IL
Published: February 2024

To evaluate the recurrence rate and risk factors of recurrence after robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for solitary renal cell carcinoma (RCC). A total of 1265 cases of initial solitary localized RCC were analyzed. The baseline characteristics, complexity (REANL nephrometry score), intra- and peri-operative outcomes, and recurrence were evaluated. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the factors affecting recurrence after RAPN for solitary localized RCC. Recurrence after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) occurred in 29 patients (2.29%). The median follow-up was 36.0 months. The N domain (nearness to collecting system/sinus) (odd ratio (OR) 3.517, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.557–7.945, p = 0.002), operation time (OR 1.005, 95% CI 1.001–1.010, p = 0.013), and perioperative transfusion (OR 5.450, 95% CI 1.197–24.816, p = 0.028) affected recurrence. Distant metastasis among patients with recurrence was significantly associated with nearness to the collecting system/sinus (OR 2.982, 95% CI 1.162–7.656, p = 0.023) and distance between the mass and collecting system/sinus (OR 0.758, 95% CI 0.594–0.967, p = 0.026). Nearness to the collecting system/sinus, operation time, and perioperative transfusion affect recurrence after RAPN for solitary localized RCC. Moreover, the proximity to the collecting system/sinus and distance between the mass and collecting system/sinus were significantly related to distant metastasis after RAPN.
An environmental perspective of energy consumption, overpopulation, and human capital barriers in South Asia
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Mafizur , Husnain Muhammad Iftikhar ul , Azimi Mohammad Naim
Published: February 2024

Prior literature is substantive in highlighting the nexus between pollutant and socio-economic predictors; however, the role of human interaction has not been sufficiently explored. Thus, the present study examines the validity of the environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis in the presence of energy consumption, overpopulation, and human capital index in five South Asian countries. It employs fixed effects, random effects, and dynamic panel causality techniques with a set of panel data from 1972 to 2021. The baseline results validate the existence of the EKC hypothesis in the recipient panel. Nevertheless, the findings reveal that energy consumption and population density have positive effects, while human capital has negative impacts on CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the study observes that energy consumption and per capita GDP have a significant causal link with CO2 emissions, whereas CO2 emissions are evident to have causality with population density and human capital index. The results are robust and suggest that the consolidation of an effective regulatory framework and technological improvements are substantial measures to improve environmental quality in South Asia. Moreover, allocating sufficient resources to uplift contemporary educational and health status would be imperative to improving environmental quality as aspired to by the Paris Agreement.
Expression network analysis of bovine skin infested with Rhipicephalus australis identifies pro-inflammatory genes contributing to tick susceptibility
Authors: Mantilla Valdivieso Emily F. , Ross Elizabeth M. , Raza Ali , Nguyen Loan , Hayes Ben J. , Jonsson Nicholas N. , James Peter , Tabor Ala E.
Published: February 2024

The skin is the primary feeding site of ticks that infest livestock animals such as cattle. The highly specialised functions of skin at the molecular level may be a factor contributing to variation in susceptibility to tick infestation; but these remain to be well defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the bovine skin transcriptomic profiles of tick-naïve and tick-infested cattle and to uncover the gene expression networks that influence contrasting phenotypes of host resistance to ticks. RNA-Seq data was obtained from skin of Brangus cattle with high (n = 5) and low (n = 6) host resistance at 0 and 12 weeks following artificial tick challenge with Rhipicephalus australis larvae. No differentially expressed genes were detected pre-infestation between high and low resistance groups, but at 12-weeks there were 229 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; FDR < 0.05), of which 212 were the target of at least 1866 transcription factors (TFs) expressed in skin. Regulatory impact factor (RIF) analysis identified 158 significant TFs (P < 0.05) of which GRHL3, and DTX1 were also DEGs in the experiment. Gene term enrichment showed the significant TFs and DEGs were enriched in processes related to immune response and biological pathways related to host response to infectious diseases. Interferon Type 1-stimulated genes, including MX2, ISG15, MX1, OAS2 were upregulated in low host resistance steers after repeated tick challenge, suggesting dysregulated wound healing and chronic inflammatory skin processes contributing to host susceptibility to ticks. The present study provides an assessment of the bovine skin transcriptome before and after repeated tick challenge and shows that the up-regulation of pro-inflammatory genes is a prominent feature in the skin of tick-susceptible animals. In addition, the identification of transcription factors with high regulatory impact provides insights into the potentially meaningful gene–gene interactions involved in the variation of phenotypes of bovine host resistance to ticks.
Enhanced methane production with co-feeding spent coffee grounds using spare capacity of existing anaerobic food waste digesters
Authors: Kim Danbee , Cha Junho , Lee Changsoo
Published: February 2024

With increasing coffee consumption worldwide, the efficient and sustainable management of spent coffee grounds (SCG) has become increasingly challenging. This study investigated the anaerobic co-digestion of small amounts of SCG with food waste (FW) at increasing co-feeding ratios of 1:100–1:10 (volatile solids basis) to assess the possibility of SCG treatment using the spare capacity of existing anaerobic digesters. Co-feeding SCG increased methane production compared to FW mono-digestion in the tested range of co-feeding ratios without compromising process stability. Methane yield did not further increase when the SCG/FW ratio increased above 4%, and process failure occurred at a 1:10 co-feeding ratio without trace element supplementation. The enhanced methanogenic performance was attributed to increased protein removal efficiency, which was potentially related to the promotion of peptide hydrolysis. The overall results suggest that co-feeding appropriate small amounts of SCG to FW digesters can be a realistic sustainable option for SCG management.
Antioxidant, antimicrobial and healing properties of an extract from coffee pulp for the development of a phytocosmetic
Authors: dos Santos Érica Mendes , de Macedo Lucas Malvezzi , Ataide Janaína Artem , Delafiori Jeany , de Oliveira Guarnieri João Paulo , Rosa Paulo César Pires , Ruiz Ana Lucia Tasca Gois , Lancellotti Marcelo , Jozala Angela Faustino , Catharino Rodrigo Ramos , Camargo Gisele Anne , Paiva-Santos Ana Cláudia , Mazzola Priscila Gava
Published: February 2024

Consumer demand for natural, chemical-free products has grown. Food industry residues, like coffee pulp, rich in caffeine, chlorogenic acid and phenolic compounds, offer potential for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Therefore, the objective of this work was to develop a phytocosmetic only with natural products containing coffee pulp extract as active pharmaceutical ingredient with antioxidant, antimicrobial and healing activity. Eight samples from Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora Pierre were analyzed for caffeine, chlorogenic acid, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, and healing potential. The Robusta IAC—extract had the greatest prominence with 192.92 μg/mL of chlorogenic acid, 58.98 ± 2.88 mg GAE/g sample in the FRAP test, 79.53 ± 5.61 mg GAE/g sample in the test of total phenolics, was not cytotoxic, and MIC 3 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus. This extract was incorporated into a stable formulation and preferred by 88% of volunteers. At last, a scratch assay exhibited the formulation promoted cell migration after 24 h, therefore, increased scratch retraction. In this way, it was possible to develop a phytocosmetic with the coffee pulp that showed desirable antioxidant, antimicrobial and healing properties.
Recovering whole-body angular momentum and margin of stability after treadmill-induced perturbations during sloped walking in healthy young adults
Authors: Shokouhi Shabnam , Sritharan Prasanna , Lee Peter Vee-Sin
Published: February 2024

Although humans are well-adapted to negotiating sloped terrain, balance recovery after a disturbance on slopes is poorly understood. This study investigated how slope affects recovery from unanticipated simulated trips and slips. Eighteen healthy young adults walked on a split-belt treadmill at 1.25 m/s and three slope angles (downhill: − 8°; level: 0°; uphill: + 8°), with slip- and trip-like perturbations applied randomly at heel-strike. We evaluated balance recovery using whole-body angular momentum (WBAM) and perturbation response (PR), for which larger PR values indicate greater deviation of the margin of stability from baseline, therefore, greater destabilisation after perturbation. Overall, trips were more destabilising than slips, producing larger PR and greater range and integral of WBAM across all tested slopes, most significantly in the sagittal plane. Contrary to expectation, sagittal-plane PR post-trip was greatest for level walking and smallest for downhill walking. Heightened vigilance during downhill walking may explain this finding. Recovery strategy in both frontal and sagittal planes was consistent across all slopes and perturbation types, characterized by a wider and shorter first recovery step, with trips requiring the greatest step adjustment. Our findings advance understanding of the robustness of human locomotion and may offer insights into fall prevention interventions.
Solvent-thermal approach of MIL-100(Fe)/Cygnea/Fe3O4/TiO2 nanocomposite for the treatment of lead from oil refinery wastewater (ORW) under UVA light
Authors: Zamani Wahid , Rastgar Saeedeh , Hedayati Aliakbar , Tajari Mohsen , Ghiasvand Zahra
Published: February 2024

The main purpose of this research endeavor is to reduce lead concentrations in the wastewater of an oil refinery through the utilization of a material composed of oyster shell waste (MIL-100(Fe)/Cygnea/Fe3O4/TiO2. Initially, iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4) were synthesized via solvent-thermal synthesis. It was subsequently coated layer by layer with the organic–metallic framework MIL-100 (Fe) using the core–shell method. Additionally, the solvent-thermal method was utilized to integrate TiO2nanoparticles into the magnetic organic–metallic framework’s structure. Varieties of analytical analysis were utilized to investigate the physical and chemical properties of the synthetic final photocatalyst. Nitrogen adsorption and desorption technique (BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), scanning electron diffraction pattern (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Following the characterization of the final photocatalyst, the physical and chemical properties of the nanoparticles synthesized in each step, several primary factors that significantly affect the removal efficiency in the advanced oxidation system (AOPs) were examined. These variables consist of pH, photocatalyst dosage, lead concentration, and reaction temperature. The synthetic photocatalyst showed optimal performance in the removal of lead from petroleum wastewater under the following conditions: 35 °C temperature, pH of 3, 0.04 g/l photocatalyst dosage, and 100 mg/l wastewater concentration. Additionally, the photocatalyst maintained a significant level of reusability after undergoing five cycles. The findings of the study revealed that the photocatalyst dosage and pH were the most influential factors in the effectiveness of lead removal. According to optimal conditions, lead removal reached a maximum of 96%. The results of this investigation showed that the synthetic photocatalyst, when exposed to UVA light, exhibited an extraordinary capacity for lead removal.
3D culture of alginate-hyaluronic acid hydrogel supports the stemness of human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Pangjantuk Amorn , Kaokaen Palakorn , Kunhorm Phongsakorn , Chaicharoenaudomrung Nipha , Noisa Parinya
Published: February 2024

The three-dimensional (3D) cell culture system is being employed more frequently to investigate cell engineering and tissue repair due to its close mimicry of in vivo microenvironments. In this study, we developed natural biomaterials, including hyaluronic acid, alginate, and gelatin, to mimic the creation of a 3D human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) extracellular environment and selected hydrogels with high proliferation capacity for 3D MSC culture. Human mesenchymal stem cells were encapsulated within hydrogels, and an investigation was conducted into the effects on cell viability and proliferation, stemness properties, and telomere activity compared to the 2D monolayer culture. Hydrogel characterization, cell proliferation, Live/Dead cell viability assay, gene expression, telomere relative length, and MSC stemness-related proteins by immunofluorescence staining were examined. The results showed that 3D alginate-hyaluronic acid (AL-HA) hydrogels increased cell proliferation, and the cells were grown as cellular spheroids within hydrogels and presented a high survival rate of 77.36% during the culture period of 14 days. Furthermore, the 3D alginate-hyaluronic acid (AL-HA) hydrogels increased the expression of stemness-related genes (OCT-4, NANOG, SOX2, and SIRT1), tissue growth and development genes (YAP and TAZ), and cell proliferation gene (Ki67) after culture for 14 days. Moreover, the telomere activity of the 3D MSCs was enhanced, as indicated by the upregulation of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (hTERT) and the relative telomere length (T/S ratio) compared to the 2D monolayer culture. Altogether, these data suggest that the 3D alginate-hyaluronic acid (AL-HA) hydrogels could serve as a promising material for maintaining stem cell properties and might be a suitable carrier for tissue engineering proposals.
Enhancing multi-UAV air combat decision making via hierarchical reinforcement learning
Authors: Wang Huan , Wang Jintao
Published: February 2024

In the realm of air combat, autonomous decision-making in regard to Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has emerged as a critical force. However, prevailing autonomous decision-making algorithms in this domain predominantly rely on rule-based methods, proving challenging to design and implement optimal solutions in complex multi-UAV combat environments. This paper proposes a novel approach to multi-UAV air combat decision-making utilizing hierarchical reinforcement learning. First, a hierarchical decision-making network is designed based on tactical action types to streamline the complexity of the maneuver decision-making space. Second, the high-quality combat experience gained from training is decomposed, with the aim of augmenting the quantity of valuable experiences and alleviating the intricacies of strategy learning. Finally, the performance of the algorithm is validated using the advanced UAV simulation platform JSBSim. Through comparisons with various baseline algorithms, our experiments demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed method in both even and disadvantaged air combat environments.
Study of waterpipe smoking topography in Fars province of Iran
Authors: Hosseini S. , Karimi G.
Published: February 2024

Despite a sharp increase in the use of the waterpipe (WP) has been noted recently in Iran, no information is available for the smoking behavior and topography parameters. The present study is intended to obtain the inhalation and smoking topography parameters for the Iranian WP smokers. The smoking data collected from 122 smoking sessions, including 192 WP smokers in the Iranian Fars province have been used to perform smoking topography assessments. The influence of demographic and smoking parameters on puffing data is obtained. Results have indicated that gender and tobacco type strongly affect puff volume and duration. Women smokers inhale smaller volume of smoke than men and puff duration is significantly increased for regular smokers than occasional smokers. However, the results of the present study have not revealed a major effect of age, residence and setting on the puffing behavior.
A look at the performance of barrel and wedge assembly in cable bolts applications
Authors: Rastegarmanesh Ashkan , Mirzaghorbanali Ali , McDougall Kevin , Aziz Naj , Anzanpour Sina , Nourizadeh Hadi , Taheri Abbas
Published: February 2024

Pretensioning is one of the most common practices in cable bolting. A barrel and wedge is typically used in the free end of the cable to hold the pretension load. This study investigates the performance of barrel and wedge in cable bolt large-scale laboratory pull out tests. Twenty-five experiments have been completed containing various barrel and wedge and cable sizes under different loading conditions, namely monotonic and cyclic. The results indicated barrel and wedges undergo constant displacement throughout the experiment. The cyclic tests suggest that the barrel and wedge assembly displacement are almost entirely non-reversible. Two distinct behaviours, namely exponential and deflection point based, were observed. The study concludes that barrel and wedge assemblies can significantly influence the performance of cable bolts under axial load.
Purcell-enhanced single photons at telecom wavelengths from a quantum dot in a photonic crystal cavity
Authors: Phillips Catherine L. , Brash Alistair J. , Godsland Max , Martin Nicholas J. , Foster Andrew , Tomlinson Anna , Dost René , Babazadeh Nasser , Sala Elisa M. , Wilson Luke , Heffernan Jon , Skolnick Maurice S. , Fox A. Mark
Published: February 2024

Quantum dots are promising candidates for telecom single photon sources due to their tunable emission across the different low-loss telecommunications bands, making them compatible with existing fiber networks. Their suitability for integration into photonic structures allows for enhanced brightness through the Purcell effect, supporting efficient quantum communication technologies. Our work focuses on InAs/InP QDs created via droplet epitaxy MOVPE to operate within the telecoms C-band. We observe a short radiative lifetime of 340 ps, arising from a Purcell factor of 5, owing to integration of the QD within a low-mode-volume photonic crystal cavity. Through in-situ control of the sample temperature, we show both temperature tuning of the QD’s emission wavelength and a preserved single photon emission purity at temperatures up to 25K. These findings suggest the viability of QD-based, cryogen-free C-band single photon sources, supporting applicability in quantum communication technologies.
The Dark Tetrad: analysis of profiles and relationship with the Big Five personality factors
Authors: Gómez-Leal Raquel , Fernández-Berrocal Pablo , Gutiérrez-Cobo María José , Cabello Rosario , Megías-Robles Alberto
Published: February 2024

The Dark Tetrad (DT) is composed of the traits of Narcissism, Machiavellianism, Psychopathy, and Sadism. Most studies analyzing the DT have employed a variable-centered approach, analyzing the traits separately. In the present study, we treat DT as a whole, adopting a person-centered approach. We analyzed different homogeneous subgroups of individuals characterized by specific DT profiles, aiming to examine their relationship with Big Five personality factors. A sample of 1149 participants (50.1% women, 18–79 years) completed The Short Dark Triad and the Assessment of Sadistic Personality instrument to assess DT, while the Mini-IPIP was used to assess the Big Five personality factors. Cluster analysis yielded five groups: Narcissism, Machiavellianism, Mean DT, Low DT, and High DT group. The main results showed that the High DT group was distinguished by higher levels of extraversion and lower levels of agreeableness and conscientiousness (compared with the Low DT group). Moreover, the Narcissism group was characterized by higher scores on emotional stability, openness to experience, and extraversion. Finally, distribution according to gender varied across DT groups (more men than women in the High DT group and the opposite in the Low DT group). Limitations and future lines of research are discussed.
A macrocyclic kinase inhibitor overcomes triple resistant mutations in EGFR-positive lung cancer
Authors: Suzuki Mai , Uchibori Ken , Oh-hara Tomoko , Nomura Yumi , Suzuki Ryusei , Takemoto Ai , Araki Mitsugu , Matsumoto Shigeyuki , Sagae Yukari , Kukimoto-Niino Mutsuko , Kawase Yusuke , Shirouzu Mikako , Okuno Yasushi , Nishio Makoto , Fujita Naoya , Katayama Ryohei
Published: February 2024

Brigatinib-based therapy was effective against osimertinib-resistant EGFR C797S mutants and is undergoing clinical studies. However, tumor relapse suggests additional resistance mutations might emerge. Here, we first demonstrated the binding mode of brigatinib to the EGFR-T790M/C797S mutant by crystal structure analysis and predicted brigatinib-resistant mutations through a cell-based assay including N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis. We found that clinically reported L718 and G796 compound mutations appeared, consistent with their proximity to the binding site of brigatinib, and brigatinib-resistant quadruple mutants such as EGFR-activating mutation/T790M/C797S/L718M were resistant to all the clinically available EGFR-TKIs. BI-4020, a fourth-generation EGFR inhibitor with a macrocyclic structure, overcomes the quadruple and major EGFR-activating mutants but not the minor mutants, such as L747P or S768I. Molecular dynamics simulation revealed the binding mode and affinity between BI-4020 and EGFR mutants. This study identified potential therapeutic strategies using the new-generation macrocyclic EGFR inhibitor to overcome the emerging ultimate resistance mutants.
Cardio-audio synchronization elicits neural and cardiac surprise responses in human wakefulness and sleep
Authors: Pelentritou Andria , Pfeiffer Christian , Schwartz Sophie , De Lucia Marzia
Published: February 2024

The human brain can encode auditory regularities with fixed sound-to-sound intervals and with sound onsets locked to cardiac inputs. Here, we investigated auditory and cardio-audio regularity encoding during sleep, when bodily and environmental stimulus processing may be altered. Using electroencephalography and electrocardiography in healthy volunteers (N = 26) during wakefulness and sleep, we measured the response to unexpected sound omissions within three regularity conditions: synchronous, where sound and heartbeat are temporally coupled, isochronous, with fixed sound-to-sound intervals, and a control condition without regularity. Cardio-audio regularity encoding manifested as a heartbeat deceleration upon omissions across vigilance states. The synchronous and isochronous sequences induced a modulation of the omission-evoked neural response in wakefulness and N2 sleep, the former accompanied by background oscillatory activity reorganization. The violation of cardio-audio and auditory regularity elicits cardiac and neural responses across vigilance states, laying the ground for similar investigations in altered consciousness states such as coma and anaesthesia.
High-stretch, tendon-driven, fiber-reinforced membrane soft actuators with multiple active degrees of freedom
Authors: Sholl Nick , Mohseni Kamran
Published: February 2024

Most soft actuators with multiple active degrees of freedom do not take advantage of the full extensibility of elastomer. Here we introduce a technique for better utilizing this extensibility for more versatile soft actuators. Embedded tendons that slide through channels within an inflatable, fiber-reinforced elastomer membrane enable active control of the membrane’s geometry at high elastomer stretches, bringing its functionality close to that of a natural hydrostatic skeleton. We demonstrate this using an initially planar, tendon-driven, fiber-reinforced membrane actuator with a single fluid cavity that can actively extend, contract, bend in multiple directions, and grasp when inflated. Most notably, the same membrane stretches to nearly three times its initial length directly along the path of a sliding tendon while performing these motions. Two such membranes are used on a robotic platform to walk with the gait of a velvet worm using a fixed mass of air, turn, climb a ramp, and navigate uneven terrain.
Machine learning unveils surface refractive index dynamics in comb-like plasmonic optical fiber biosensors
Authors: Fasseaux Hadrien , Loyez Médéric , Caucheteur Christophe
Published: February 2024

The precise measurement of surface refractive index changes is crucial in biosensing, providing insights into bioreceptors–analytes interactions. However, correlating intricate spectral features, with these refractive index variations remains a persistent challenge, particularly in optical fiber gratings-based Surface Plasmon Resonance sensing. Here, we introduce a machine learning-based approach to address this ongoing issue. We integrate a regression model with gold-coated tilted fiber Bragg grating sensors. This enhances signal stability and precision, enabling a correlation between spectral shifts and refractive index changes. Our approach eliminates the need for individual sensor calibration, thereby bolstering the effectiveness and efficiency of the sensing layer. We demonstrate the model’s versatility by showcasing its efficacy across two data acquisition systems with different resolutions, allowing for comparative analysis and robustness enhancement. Its application in a biosensing experiment for insulin functionalization and detection, demonstrates how this breakthrough approach marks an advancement in real-time refractive index monitoring.
How Do Skeletal Tissues Keep Time? Circadian Rhythms in Cartilage and Bone
Authors: Gonçalves Cátia F. , Meng Qing-Jun
Published: February 2024

The genetic decoding of the circadian clockwork has been a remarkable achievement in revealing the intricate molecular feedback loops that generate 24-hour rhythms. The discovery of cell-intrinsic circadian clocks in peripheral tissues has fueled further interest in investigating their tissue specific roles under both homeostatic and pathophysiological conditions throughout life. The skeletal system in mammals not only provides protection to internal organs and allows movement, but also generates blood cells and serves important endocrine functions, such as the regulation of mineral homeostasis. Importantly, the skeletal system seems to be particularly sensitive to the effects of ageing, as shown by the high prevalence of osteoarthritis (characterised by articular cartilage degeneration) and osteoporosis (loss of bone density), among others. Epidemiological studies have associated shift work, which frequently disrupts circadian rhythms, with low mineral density in bones, a greater risk of hip and wrist fractures and the development of osteoarthritis. In this chapter, we summarize the current understanding of the circadian timing mechanisms in cartilage and bone, with a particular focus on the evidence of circadian rhythms in physiology, their molecular underpinnings, tissue-specific targets, and their links to diseases. We also discuss the clinical relevance of utilising skeletal circadian rhythms to promote tissue health and slow down disease progression.
Integumentary System
Authors: Cornelissen Germaine , Otsuka Kuniaki
Published: February 2024

Skin is a complex organ, consisting of several layers, each containing different kinds of cells performing different functions, including defense mechanisms against pathogens, chemicals, UV light, and mechanical injury, hydration, temperature regulation, sebum production, skin blood flow and barrier function. Skin is regulated by the central clock, while skin cells also harbor their own molecular circuitry, with each cell containing a biochemical oscillator consisting of interlocked transcription–translation feedback loops. After a brief overview of skin structure and organization, illustrative examples of 24-hour variations in some functions of skin are presented. The involvement of the circadian clock in several cells playing key roles in skin and affecting the expression of distinct gene sets and physiological functions is then reviewed. The implication of the circadian clock machinery present in different skin cells is further discussed in relation to various skin diseases, ranging from skin cancer to skin infections, inflammatory skin diseases, and wound healing. To conclude, some thoughts on strategies to maintain skin health and counteract disease conditions in the skin are offered, opening a vast field for future investigation.
The Interplay Between Female Reproductive Function and the Circadian System
Authors: Nakamura Takahiro J. , Takasu Nana N. , Cornelissen Germaine , Otsuka Kuniaki , Nakamura Wataru
Published: February 2024

Female reproductive function and circadian rhythm mutually influence and regulate each other. For example, in adult women, ovarian steroid hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), which affect the circadian rhythm, cause a rapid change in the menstrual cycle, possibly causing sleep disorders. This chapter discusses the relationship between the circadian rhythm and the menstrual cycle (oestrous cycle), which is a part of reproduction. The effect of the oestrous cycle on the circadian rhythm and the effect of the circadian rhythm on female reproductive function” are also reviewed. Our studies using experimental rodent models have demonstrated that disruption of the circadian clock system results in irregular hormonal fluctuations, which are associated with irregular menstruation and ovulation. Exposure to an irregular light environment (lifestyle) disturbs female reproductive function. Collectively, we conclude that it is important to understand sex differences in the biological clock and that leading a regular life considering the biological clock helps maintain a healthy reproductive function. Some of the recent findings reported in the literature concerning the intricate involvement of the circadian system in various physiological processes related to reproduction are further reviewed in the Appendix.
Circadian Clocks and Metabolism
Authors: Challet Etienne , Vuillez Patrick
Published: February 2024

At cellular, tissue and organism levels, metabolism is organized in a rhythmic manner by the circadian multi-oscillatory system on a daily scale. This system influences metabolism throughout the body in several ways, including temporal cues from the master clock via the autonomic nervous system and neuroendocrine pathways, messages from local clocks in a given tissue, and the synchronisation of external or internal factors, such as light, ambient temperature and feeding time. Numerous reciprocal interactions occur between metabolic intracellular pathways and the molecular clockwork. These interactions are affected, among others, by meal timing or light exposure at atypical times. Gut microbiota modulates energy homeostasis of the host, and is, in turn, modulated by the host’s feeding/fasting cycle. Circadian misalignment has deleterious effects on health. Appropriately phased exercise, meals and other nutritional interventions may have beneficial effects in limiting or preventing circadian disruption and improving metabolic health.
Label-free mapping of cetuximab in multi-layered tumor oral mucosa models by atomic force-microscopy-based infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Germer Gregor , Schwartze Leonie , García-Miller Jill , Balansin-Rigon Roberta , Groth Lucie J. , Rühl Isabel , Patoka Piotr , Zoschke Christian , Rühl Eckart
Published: February 2024

Sensitive mapping of drugs and drug delivery systems is pivotal for the understanding and improvement of treatment options.
Combination of isotope dilution with liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for the simultaneous monitoring and evaluation of cadmium and inorganic arsenic in polished rice
Authors: Narukawa Tomohiro , Okabayashi Satoki , Tsuboi Motohiro , Chiba Koichi
Published: February 2024

A new monitoring and evaluation technique for cadmium and inorganic arsenic in rice was developed, where the isotope dilution method was applied in combination with high performance liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.
A nanoparticle reinforced microporous methacrylated silk fibroin hydrogel to promote bone regeneration
Authors: Wang Ruideng , He Xi , Chen Zhengyang , Su Shilong , Bai Jinwu , Liu Haifeng , Zhou Fang
Published: February 2024

A photo-crosslinked nanocomposite hydrogel was prepared by incorporating an osteo-inductive inorganic nanoparticle for endogenous bone regeneration.
Ligand engineering to achieve synergistic properties in a 2D bilayer supertetrahedral chalcogenide cluster-based assembled material
Authors: Li Yan-Ling , Liu Yu-Dong , Li Wei-Li , Li Fu-An , Feng Yun-Xiao , Luo Xiao-Qiang , Han Yong-Jun
Published: February 2024

Using a mixture of conjugated TPPA and BPE linkers, this work achieved a 2D bilayer supertetrahedral chalcogenolate cluster-based assembled material, which exhibited a long-lived afterglow and efficient photocatalytic activity.
Tuning the d-band states of NiFe-MOFs by combining early and late transition metals for enhanced electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Wen Dan , Xie Dongling , Huang Bo , Huang Qiuping , Lin Dunmin , Xu Chenggang , Xie Fengyu , Wang Guangzhao , Guo Wenhan
Published: February 2024

This work presents a strategy of early-and-late transition metal combination to provide new pathways for efficient water splitting catalyst development.
Perspective on Coupled-cluster Theory. The evolution toward simplicity in quantum chemistry
Authors: Bartlett Rodney J.
Published: February 2024

Coupled-cluster theory has revolutionized quantum chemistry.
Understanding the effects of targeted modifications on the 1 : 2 Choline And GEranate structure
Authors: Dobre Ana , Koutsoukos Spyridon , Philippi Frederik , Rauber Daniel , Kay Christopher W. M. , Palumbo Oriele , Roessler Maxie M. , Welton Tom
Published: February 2024

Targeted modifications of the 1 : 2 Choline-and-geranate (CAGE) structure promote the formation of room-temperature ionic liquid crystals.
Release and stability of two tebuconazole nanoformulations in different aquatic media
Authors: López-Cabeza Rocío , Eghbalinejad Mahleh , Kah Melanie , Grillo Renato , Bílková Zuzana , Kotouček Jan , Hofman Jakub
Published: February 2024

Novel formulations for pesticides based on nano-sized carriers loaded with active substances (i.e., nanopesticides) have been developed in recent years to enhance the technical, environmental, and toxicological properties of pesticides.
Neodymium recovery from NdFeB magnets: a sustainable, instantaneous, and cost-effective method
Authors: Bose Sandeep , Mizero Benilde , Ariya Parisa A.
Published: February 2024

Sustainable extraction of Nd from e-waste using water dispersible carboxylate functionalized nanocellulose (CFNC).
Cu(ii)-catalyzed ‘in-water’N-arylation of electron-deficient NH-heterocycles
Authors: Sunny Steeva , Maingle Mohit , Sheeba Loddipalle , Pathan Firojkhan Rajekhan , J. Gowri Sankar , Juloori Harika , Gadewar Sainath Ganesh , Seth Kapileswar
Published: February 2024

Cu(ii)-catalyzed robust efficient in-waterN-arylation of electron-poor NH-heterocycles is reported. Wide substrate scope, decent yields, functional group tolerance, gram-scale synthesis, synthetic elaboration, late-stage arylation mirror advantages.
Europium-doped hybrid nano-complexes: a potential strategy for metastasis prevention in osteosarcoma
Authors: Wang Yu-Chi , Tung Fu-I , Sung Zheng-Ying , Chen Mei-Hsiu , Chen Ming-Hong , Liu Tse-Ying
Published: February 2024

A hybrid nano-complex, Eu:SPIO@BSA, is designed to prevent lung metastasis in osteosarcoma and enhance the accumulation of Eu in tumors.
Organic cations promote exciton dissociation in Ruddlesden–Popper lead iodide perovskites: a theoretical study
Authors: Tan Xiaohua , Feng Qingjie , Nan Guangjun
Published: February 2024

This study proposes that the organic cations provide the driving force for electron–hole dissociation into free charge carriers along the direction normal to the quantum-well plane in the bulk region of two-dimensional Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites.
Employing nano-enabled artificial intelligence (AI)-based smart technologies for prediction, screening, and detection of cancer
Authors: Chugh Vibhas , Basu Adreeja , Kaushik Ajeet , Manshu  , Bhansali Shekhar , Basu Aviru Kumar
Published: February 2024

AI enabled imaging technology advances the precision, early detection, and personalizes treatment through analysis and interpretation of medical images.
Metal-free synthesis of alternating silylether–carbosilane copolymers using unsaturated ketones
Authors: Yoshida Naoki , Zhu Huie , Mitsuishi Masaya
Published: February 2024

Metal-free B(C6F5)3-catalysed hydrosilylation polymerization was demonstrated at room temperature for alternating silylether–carbosilane copolymer synthesis using bis(dimethylsilyl)benzene and α,β-unsaturated ketones.
Keratin protein nanofibers from merino wool yarn: a top-down approach for the disintegration of hierarchical wool architecture to extract α-keratin protein nanofibers
Authors: Tissera Nadeeka D. , Wijesena Ruchira N. , Ludowyke Natali , Priyadarshana Gayan , Dahanayake Damayanthi , de Silva Rohini M. , Nalin de Silva K. M.
Published: February 2024

We report the extraction of keratin nanofibers from the medulla of a parent yarn after denaturing the cuticle and cortex microstructures of a merino wool yarn.
Fabrication and characterization of NiCu/GO and NiCu/rGO nanocomposites for fuel cell application
Authors: Mohamed Aya , Shaban Mohamed , Kordy Mohamed G. M. , Al-Senani Ghadah M. , Eissa M. F. , Hamdy Hany
Published: February 2024

In our DAMFC study, NiCu/rGO has stronger catalytic activity than pure NiCu and NiCu/GO composites. rGO and GO supporters improved the NiCu performance by 468.2% and 377.7% in methanol and by 255.6% and 105.9% in ethanol, respectively.
Recent progress in ion-regulated organic room-temperature phosphorescence
Authors: Dai Wenbo , Jiang Yitian , Lei Yunxiang , Huang Xiaobo , Sun Peng , Shi Jianbing , Tong Bin , Yan Dongpeng , Cai Zhengxu , Dong Yuping
Published: February 2024

In this perspective, the progress in ion-regulated organic RTP materials and described the roles of ions, including ion–π interactions, electrostatic interactions, and coordinate interactions, have been summarized.
Paper-based point of care diagnostics for cancer biomarkers
Authors: Bhardwaj Prateek , Arora Bharti , Saxena Survanshu , Singh Subhasini , Palkar Pranoti , Goda Jayant Sastri , Banerjee Rinti
Published: February 2024

Advancements in assay design, detection techniques, signal transduction and enhancement strategies using smart nanomaterials.
Kiwi peel waste as a recyclable adsorbent to remove textile dyes from water: Direct Blue 78 removal and recovery
Authors: Gubitosa Jennifer , Rizzi Vito , Fini Paola , Nuzzo Sergio , Cosma Pinalysa
Published: February 2024

According to circular bioeconomy principles, the use of kiwi peels to remove Direct Blue 78 (DB) from water is investigated during this work, proposing food waste as a recyclable adsorbent substrate.