bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimum entropy production by microswimmers with internal dissipation
Authors: Daddi-Moussa-Ider Abdallah , Golestanian Ramin , Vilfan Andrej
Published: September 2023

The energy dissipation and entropy production by self-propelled microswimmers differ profoundly from passive particles pulled by external forces. The difference extends both to the shape of the flow around the swimmer, as well as to the internal dissipation of the propulsion mechanism. Here we derive a general theorem that provides an exact lower bound on the total, external and internal, dissipation by a microswimmer. The problems that can be solved include an active surface-propelled droplet, swimmers with an extended propulsive layer and swimmers with an effective internal dissipation. We apply the theorem to determine the swimmer shapes that minimize the total dissipation while keeping the volume constant. Our results show that the entropy production by active microswimmers is subject to different fundamental limits than the entropy production by externally driven particles.
Integrated molecular and multiparametric MRI mapping of high-grade glioma identifies regional biologic signatures
Authors: Hu Leland S. , D’Angelo Fulvio , Weiskittel Taylor M. , Caruso Francesca P. , Fortin Ensign Shannon P. , Blomquist Mylan R. , Flick Matthew J. , Wang Lujia , Sereduk Christopher P. , Meng-Lin Kevin , De Leon Gustavo , Nespodzany Ashley , Urcuyo Javier C. , Gonzales Ashlyn C , Curtin Lee , Lewis Erika M. , Singleton Kyle W. , Dondlinger Timothy , Anil Aliya , Semmineh Natenael B. , Noviello Teresa , Patel Reyna A. , Wang Panwen , Wang Junwen , Eschbacher Jennifer M. , Hawkins-Daarud Andrea , Jackson Pamela R. , Grunfeld Itamar S. , Elrod Christian , Mazza Gina L. , McGee Sam C. , Paulson Lisa , Clark-Swanson Kamala , Lassiter-Morris Yvette , Smith Kris A. , Nakaji Peter , Bendok Bernard R. , Zimmerman Richard S. , Krishna Chandan , Patra Devi P. , Patel Naresh P. , Lyons Mark , Neal Matthew , Donev Kliment , Mrugala Maciej M. , Porter Alyx B. , Beeman Scott C. , Jensen Todd R. , Schmainda Kathleen M. , Zhou Yuxiang , Baxter Leslie C. , Plaisier Christopher L. , Li Jing , Li Hu , Lasorella Anna , Quarles C. Chad , Swanson Kristin R. , Ceccarelli Michele , Iavarone Antonio , Tran Nhan L.
Published: September 2023

Sampling restrictions have hindered the comprehensive study of invasive non-enhancing (NE) high-grade glioma (HGG) cell populations driving tumor progression. Here, we present an integrated multi-omic analysis of spatially matched molecular and multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) profiling across 313 multi-regional tumor biopsies, including 111 from the NE, across 68 HGG patients. Whole exome and RNA sequencing uncover unique genomic alterations to unresectable invasive NE tumor, including subclonal events, which inform genomic models predictive of geographic evolution. Infiltrative NE tumor is alternatively enriched with tumor cells exhibiting neuronal or glycolytic/plurimetabolic cellular states, two principal transcriptomic pathway-based glioma subtypes, which respectively demonstrate abundant private mutations or enrichment in immune cell signatures. These NE phenotypes are non-invasively identified through normalized K2 imaging signatures, which discern cell size heterogeneity on dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC)-MRI. NE tumor populations predicted to display increased cellular proliferation by mean diffusivity (MD) MRI metrics are uniquely associated with EGFR amplification and CDKN2A homozygous deletion. The biophysical mapping of infiltrative HGG potentially enables the clinical recognition of tumor subpopulations with aggressive molecular signatures driving tumor progression, thereby informing precision medicine targeting.
Tunable backbone-degradable robust tissue adhesives via in situ radical ring-opening polymerization
Authors: Yang Ran , Zhang Xu , Chen Binggang , Yan Qiuyan , Yin Jinghua , Luan Shifang
Published: September 2023

Adhesives with both robust adhesion and tunable degradability are clinically and ecologically vital, but their fabrication remains a formidable challenge. Here we propose an in situ radical ring-opening polymerization (rROP) strategy to design a backbone-degradable robust adhesive (BDRA) in physiological environment. The hydrophobic cyclic ketene acetal and hydrophilic acrylate monomer mixture of the BDRA precursor allows it to effectively wet and penetrate substrates, subsequently forming a deep covalently interpenetrating network with a degradable backbone via redox-initiated in situ rROP. The resulting BDRAs show good adhesion strength on diverse materials and tissues (e.g., wet bone >16 MPa, and porcine skin >150 kPa), higher than that of commercial cyanoacrylate superglue (~4 MPa and 56 kPa). Moreover, the BDRAs have enhanced tunable degradability, mechanical modulus (100 kPa-10 GPa) and setting time (seconds-hours), and have good biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo. This family of BDRAs expands the scope of medical adhesive applications and offers an easy and environmentally friendly approach for engineering.
Biomolecular condensates modulate membrane lipid packing and hydration
Authors: Mangiarotti Agustín , Siri Macarena , Tam Nicky W. , Zhao Ziliang , Malacrida Leonel , Dimova Rumiana
Published: September 2023

Membrane wetting by biomolecular condensates recently emerged as a key phenomenon in cell biology, playing an important role in a diverse range of processes across different organisms. However, an understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind condensate formation and interaction with lipid membranes is still missing. To study this, we exploited the properties of the dyes ACDAN and LAURDAN as nano-environmental sensors in combination with phasor analysis of hyperspectral and lifetime imaging microscopy. Using glycinin as a model condensate-forming protein and giant vesicles as model membranes, we obtained vital information on the process of condensate formation and membrane wetting. Our results reveal that glycinin condensates display differences in water dynamics when changing the salinity of the medium as a consequence of rearrangements in the secondary structure of the protein. Remarkably, analysis of membrane-condensates interaction with protein as well as polymer condensates indicated a correlation between increased wetting affinity and enhanced lipid packing. This is demonstrated by a decrease in the dipolar relaxation of water across all membrane-condensate systems, suggesting a general mechanism to tune membrane packing by condensate wetting.
Global mapping of RNA-chromatin contacts reveals a proximity-dominated connectivity model for ncRNA-gene interactions
Authors: Limouse Charles , Smith Owen K. , Jukam David , Fryer Kelsey A. , Greenleaf William J. , Straight Aaron F.
Published: September 2023

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are transcribed throughout the genome and provide regulatory inputs to gene expression through their interaction with chromatin. Yet, the genomic targets and functions of most ncRNAs are unknown. Here we use chromatin-associated RNA sequencing (ChAR-seq) to map the global network of ncRNA interactions with chromatin in human embryonic stem cells and the dynamic changes in interactions during differentiation into definitive endoderm. We uncover general principles governing the organization of the RNA-chromatin interactome, demonstrating that nearly all ncRNAs exclusively interact with genes in close three-dimensional proximity to their locus and provide a model predicting the interactome. We uncover RNAs that interact with many loci across the genome and unveil thousands of unannotated RNAs that dynamically interact with chromatin. By relating the dynamics of the interactome to changes in gene expression, we demonstrate that activation or repression of individual genes is unlikely to be controlled by a single ncRNA.
Counteranion-mediated efficient iodine capture in a hexacationic imidazolium organic cage enabled by multiple non-covalent interactions
Authors: Yang Jian , Hu Shao-Jun , Cai Li-Xuan , Zhou Li-Peng , Sun Qing-Fu
Published: September 2023

Developing efficient adsorbents to capture radioactive iodine produced from nuclear wastes is highly desired. Here we report the facial synthesis of a hexacationic imidazolium organic cage and its iodine adsorption properties. Crucial role of counteranions has been disclosed for iodine capture with this cage, where distinct iodine capture behaviors were observed when different counteranions were used. Mechanistic investigations, especially with the X-ray crystallographic analysis of the iodine-loaded sample, allowed the direct visualization of the iodine binding modes at the molecular level. A network of multiple non-covalent interactions including hydrogen bonds, halogen bonds, anion···π interactions, electrostatic interaction between polyiodides and the hexacationic skeleton of the cage are found responsible for the observed high iodine capture performance. Our results may provide an alternative strategy to design efficient iodine adsorbents.
Energy consumption of current and future production of lithium-ion and post lithium-ion battery cells
Authors: Degen F. , Winter M. , Bendig D. , Tübke J.
Published: September 2023

Due to the rapidly increasing demand for electric vehicles, the need for battery cells is also increasing considerably. However, the production of battery cells requires enormous amounts of energy, which is expensive and produces greenhouse gas emissions. Here, by combining data from literature and from own research, we analyse how much energy lithium-ion battery (LIB) and post lithium-ion battery (PLIB) cell production requires on cell and macro-economic levels, currently and in the future (until 2040). On the cell level, we find that PLIB cells require less energy than LIB cells per produced cell energy. On the macro-economic level, we find that the energy consumption for the global production of LIB and PLIB cells will be 130,000 GWh if no measures are taken. Yet, it is possible to optimize future production and save up to 66% of this energy demand.
Genomic epidemiology reveals multidrug resistant plasmid spread between Vibrio cholerae lineages in Yemen
Authors: Lassalle Florent , Al-Shalali Salah , Al-Hakimi Mukhtar , Njamkepo Elisabeth , Bashir Ismail Mahat , Dorman Matthew J. , Rauzier Jean , Blackwell Grace A. , Taylor-Brown Alyce , Beale Mathew A. , Cazares Adrián , Al-Somainy Ali Abdullah , Al-Mahbashi Anas , Almoayed Khaled , Aldawla Mohammed , Al-Harazi Abdulelah , Quilici Marie-Laure , Weill François-Xavier , Dhabaan Ghulam , Thomson Nicholas R.
Published: September 2023

Since 2016, Yemen has been experiencing the largest cholera outbreak in modern history. Multidrug resistance (MDR) emerged among Vibrio cholerae isolates from cholera patients in 2018. Here, to characterize circulating genotypes, we analysed 260 isolates sampled in Yemen between 2018 and 2019. Eighty-four percent of V. cholerae isolates were serogroup O1 belonging to the seventh pandemic El Tor (7PET) lineage, sub-lineage T13, whereas 16% were non-toxigenic, from divergent non-7PET lineages. Treatment of severe cholera with macrolides between 2016 and 2019 coincided with the emergence and dominance of T13 subclones carrying an incompatibility type C (IncC) plasmid harbouring an MDR pseudo-compound transposon. MDR plasmid detection also in endemic non-7PET V. cholerae lineages suggested genetic exchange with 7PET epidemic strains. Stable co-occurrence of the IncC plasmid with the SXT family of integrative and conjugative element in the 7PET background has major implications for cholera control, highlighting the importance of genomic epidemiological surveillance to limit MDR spread.
Directed evolution unlocks oxygen reactivity for a nicotine-degrading flavoenzyme
Authors: Dulchavsky Mark , Mitra Rishav , Wu Kevin , Li Joshua , Boer Karli , Liu Xiaomeng , Zhang Zhiyao , Vasquez Cristian , Clark Christopher T. , Funckes Kaitrin , Shankar Kokila , Bonnet-Zahedi Selene , Siddiq Mohammad , Sepulveda Yadira , Suhandynata Raymond T. , Momper Jeremiah D. , Calabrese Antonio N. , George Olivier , Stull Frederick , Bardwell James C. A.
Published: September 2023

The flavoenzyme nicotine oxidoreductase (NicA2) is a promising injectable treatment to aid in the cessation of smoking, a behavior responsible for one in ten deaths worldwide. NicA2 acts by degrading nicotine in the bloodstream before it reaches the brain. Clinical use of NicA2 is limited by its poor catalytic activity in the absence of its natural electron acceptor CycN. Without CycN, NicA2 is instead oxidized slowly by dioxygen (O2), necessitating unfeasibly large doses in a therapeutic setting. Here, we report a genetic selection strategy that directly links CycN-independent activity of NicA2 to growth of Pseudomonas putida S16. This selection enabled us to evolve NicA2 variants with substantial improvement in their rate of oxidation by O2. The encoded mutations cluster around a putative O2 tunnel, increasing flexibility and accessibility to O2 in this region. These mutations further confer desirable clinical properties. A variant form of NicA2 is tenfold more effective than the wild type at degrading nicotine in the bloodstream of rats.
A neural marker of the human face identity familiarity effect
Authors: Yan Xiaoqian , Volfart Angélique , Rossion Bruno
Published: September 2023

Human adults associate different views of an identity much better for familiar than for unfamiliar faces. However, a robust and consistent neural index of this behavioral face identity familiarity effect (FIFE)—not found in non-human primate species—is lacking. Here we provide such a neural FIFE index, measured implicitly and with one fixation per face. Fourteen participants viewed 70 s stimulation sequences of a large set (n = 40) of widely variable natural images of a face identity at a rate of 6 images/second (6 Hz). Different face identities appeared every 5th image (1.2 Hz). In a sequence, face images were either familiar (i.e., famous) or unfamiliar, participants performing a non-periodic task unrelated to face recognition. The face identity recognition response identified at 1.2 Hz over occipital-temporal regions in the frequency-domain electroencephalogram was 3.4 times larger for familiar than unfamiliar faces. The neural response to familiar faces—which emerged at about 180 ms following face onset—was significant in each individual but a case of prosopdysgnosia. Besides potential clinical and forensic applications to implicitly measure one’s knowledge of a face identity, these findings open new perspectives to clarify the neurofunctional source of the FIFE and understand the nature of human face identity recognition.
Patient-reported perioperative anaesthesia-related anxiety is associated with impaired patient satisfaction: a secondary analysis from a prospective observational study in Switzerland
Authors: Bello Corina , Nuebling Matthias , Koster Kira-Lee , Heidegger Thomas
Published: September 2023

Perioperative anxiety is common. The relationship between anxiety and patient satisfaction with anaesthesia is still under debate. We assessed the prevalence and different causes of anaesthesia-related fears leading to perioperative anxiety and its association with patient satisfaction. A multiple-time validated, psychometrically developed questionnaire assessing the presence of anxiety, causes of fear, and different dimensions of patient satisfaction was sent to patients after discharge. The clinical data were obtained from a previous study. The sample size was calculated to recruit a minimum of 300 completed questionnaires. Statistical analyses included multivariate logistic regression models. Complete data were available for 474 of the 600 patients recruited for the study (response rate: 79%). A total of 141 patients (30%) reported anxiety regarding anaesthesia before hospital admission. The prevalence of anxiety was significantly associated with patient age (< 54 years: n = 196, prevalence = 37%; > 54 years: n = 263, prevalence = 24%; p = 0.002), female sex (female: n = 242, prevalence 39%; male: n = 223, prevalence 20%; p < 0.001), and surgical speciality (gynaecology (n = 61, prevalence = 49%), otolaryngology (n = 56, prevalence = 46%); p < 0.001). Fear of not awakening from anaesthesia (n = 44, prevalence = 32%, SD 45.8) and developing postoperative nausea or vomiting (n = 42, prevalence = 30%, SD 46.0) were the most reported anaesthesia-related causes of fear. Anxiety was associated with impaired overall patient satisfaction (mean dissatisfaction score 15%, versus 23%, SD 16.3 in the anxious group, SD 16.3, p < 0.001), especially regarding the dimensions “information and involvement in decision-making” (14% of deficits stated in the non-anxious group compared to 23% in the anxious group, p < 0.001), “respect and trust” (2% vs 6.26%, p < 0.001) and “continuity of care” (50% vs 57%, p < 0.015). Patient-reported anaesthesia-related anxiety is common and may affect important outcome parameters such as patient satisfaction. Abstract presented in e-poster format at Euroanaesthesia 2023, June 3–5, Glasgow.
Production and characterization of intracellular invertase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (OL629078.1), using cassava-soybean as a cost-effective substrate
Authors: Osiebe Oghenesivwe , Adewale Isaac Olusanjo , Omafuvbe Bridget Okiemute
Published: September 2023

The growing global market for industrial enzymes has led to a constant search for efficient, cost-effective methods for their production. This study reports the production of invertase using inexpensive and readily available agro-materials. Starch-digesting enzymes extracted from malted unkilned sorghum were used to hydrolyze cassava starch supplemented with 2% whole soybean. The production of intracellular invertase by Saccharomyces cerevisiae OL629078.1 in cassava-soybean and yeast sucrose broth was compared. The purification and characterization of invertase produced using the low-cost medium were also reported. The results showed that there was a 4.1-fold increase in the units of invertase produced in cassava-soybean medium (318.605 U/mg) compared to yeast sucrose broth medium (77.6 U/mg). The invertase produced was purified by chromatographic methods up to 5.53-fold with a recovery of 62.6%. Estimation of the molecular weight with gel filtration indicated a molecular weight of 118 kDa. The enzyme demonstrated its maximum activity at 50 °C and there was no decrease in its activity following a 1-h incubation at this temperature. At a pH of 5.0, the enzyme demonstrated optimal activity and it maintained over 60% of its activity in the acid range (pH 3–6). The Michalis-Menten constants Km and Vmax of intracellular invertase were 5.85 ± 1.715 mM and 6.472 ± 2.099 U/mg, respectively. These results suggest that Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown on cassava-soybean is a viable, cost-effective alternative for commercial invertase production, which can be explored for biotechnological processes.
Differential roles of highly expressed PFKFB4 in colon adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Gu Xiaojing , Dai Xingchen , Huang Yongli , Zhang Yuhuan , Dong Lintao , Gao Chanchan , Wang Fang
Published: September 2023

Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is a common malignant tumor, and the role of the protein PFKFB4 in glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways is crucial. Researchers investigated the clinical significance of PFKFB4 in COAD by studying its expression in 79 tissue samples using immunohistochemistry. We found that PFKFB4 expression was significantly higher in COAD patients, particularly in the sigmoid colon. Interestingly, high PFKFB4 expression was associated with both improved overall survival (OS) and post-progression survival (PPS) in COAD patients. Further analysis revealed that genes associated with PFKFB4 were linked to various metabolic pathways, including amino acid biosynthesis, glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glucose metabolism, and inflammatory response. PFKFB4 expression also showed correlations with the infiltration of different immune cell types in COAD patients, such as CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, active mast cells, and resting NK cells. Overall, the relationship between PFKFB4 expression and the prognosis of COAD is complex and diverse, possibly playing different roles at different stages of the disease. Moreover, its mechanism might involve interactions with various metabolic pathways and immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential role of PFKFB4 as a biomarker or therapeutic target in COAD.
Magnesium inhibits peritoneal calcification as a late-stage characteristic of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis
Authors: Aihara Seishi , Yamada Shunsuke , Matsueda Shumei , Nagashima Akinori , Torisu Kumiko , Kitazono Takanari , Nakano Toshiaki
Published: September 2023

Peritoneal calcification is a prominent feature of the later stage of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) in patients undergoing long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). However, the pathogenesis and preventive strategy for peritoneal calcification remain unclear. Peritoneum samples from EPS patients were examined histologically. Peritoneal calcification was induced in mice by feeding with an adenine-containing diet combined with intraperitoneal administration of lipopolysaccharide and a calcifying solution containing high calcium and phosphate. Excised mouse peritoneum, human mesothelial cells (MeT5A), and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) were cultured in calcifying medium. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the appearance of osteoblastic differentiation-marker-positive cells in the visceral peritoneum from EPS patients. Intraperitoneal administration of magnesium suppressed peritoneal fibrosis and calcification in mice. Calcifying medium increased the calcification of cultured mouse peritoneum, which was prevented by magnesium. Calcification of the extracellular matrix was accelerated in Met5A cells and MEFs treated with calcification medium. Calcifying medium also upregulated osteoblastic differentiation markers in MeT5A cells and induced apoptosis in MEFs. Conversely, magnesium supplementation mitigated extracellular matrix calcification and phenotypic transdifferentiation and apoptosis caused by calcifying conditions in cultured MeT5A cells and MEFs. Phosphate loading contributes to the progression of EPS through peritoneal calcification and fibrosis, which can be prevented by magnesium supplementation.
Low temperature preparation of diopside nanoparticles: in-vitro bioactivity and drug loading evaluation
Authors: sobhani Ava , Salimi Esmaeil
Published: September 2023

Bioactive diopside (CaMgSi2O6) nanoparticles have recently gained potential usefulness as bone replacement materials and nano vehicles for delivering therapeutics. The structural characteristics of this ceramic have found to be a key factor in bone bonding ability. To attain the desired product for 100% clinical success, it is important to realize the relationship between structure and biological activity. Synthesis of these nanoparticles via the solid-state method has been regarded as a low-cost and easy process in large-scale, but time consuming reactions and high temperature (≈ 1400 °C) are required. On the other side, the wet chemistry can overcome these drawbacks, whereas the presence of byproducts in the final powder has limited this method in large-scale production. The present document has represented a simple, fast and one-pot sol–gel approach for the synthesis of highly pure diopside nano-powders (< 20 nm) by using not-expensive precursors. Calcination of the obtained powder has been conducted at various temperatures (700, 1000 and 1200 °C). The physicochemical and microstructural properties of the products have been characterized by XRD, FTIR, FESEM and TEM. Moreover, the impact of the crystallinity on the bioactivity, drug loading capacity and drug release behavior of the synthesized nanoparticles have been investigated here for the first time. The in-vitro bioactivity results of the prepared diopside samples in a simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37 °C revealed the higher capability of the sintered sample to deposit calcium phosphate, compared with the amorphous one. High quantity of gentamicin (around 10 µg) could attach to the surface of 1 miligram of the sintered diopside during the early stages of contact (3 h), suggesting the potential use of diopside as a new class of nano-vehicles for antibiotics. The release behavior indicated a sustained release of gentamicin (80%) after 24 h. In conclusion, diopside nanoparticles can be a promising candidate as a drug-vehicle for bone filling, implant coating or bone cement applications.
Projection of temperature-related mortality among the elderly under advanced aging and climate change scenario
Authors: Huang Yi , Li Chen , Liu De Li , Yang Jun
Published: September 2023

Advanced aging is expected to become a major social problem in China during the second half of the 21st century. Current projections of temperature-related mortality in the context of advanced aging are inadequate, and may underestimate the risks posed by global warming on people aged 90+ years. The present study addresses this issue in Nantong City, which was the city in China with the highest aging and advanced aging rates in the 2000, 2010, and 2020 population censuses. Based on 27 global climate models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 and statistical downscaling methods, the impacts of climate change and advanced aging on future temperature-related elderly mortality were explored. Our results indicate that global warming will continue to increase the proportion of people who die from non-optimal temperatures even without considering the impact of advanced aging. Moreover, a higher warming range led to a more significant increase in net-temperature-related mortality and advanced aging is likely to increase heat-related mortality and offset the decline in cold-related mortality. Our study demonstrates a “1 + 1 > 2” effect between advanced aging and climate change, under the four shared socioeconomic pathway climate change scenarios considered here. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the impact of climate change on elderly health and facilitate the development of more effective adaptive strategies for advanced aging societies.
iPSC-derived type IV collagen α5-expressing kidney organoids model Alport syndrome
Authors: Hirayama Ryuichiro , Toyohara Kosuke , Watanabe Kei , Otsuki Takeya , Araoka Toshikazu , Mae Shin-Ichi , Horinouchi Tomoko , Yamamura Tomohiko , Okita Keisuke , Hotta Akitsu , Iijima Kazumoto , Nozu Kandai , Osafune Kenji
Published: September 2023

Alport syndrome (AS) is a hereditary glomerulonephritis caused by COL4A3, COL4A4 or COL4A5 gene mutations and characterized by abnormalities of glomerular basement membranes (GBMs). Due to a lack of curative treatments, the condition proceeds to end-stage renal disease even in adolescents. Hampering drug discovery is the absence of effective in vitro methods for testing the restoration of normal GBMs. Here, we aimed to develop kidney organoid models from AS patient iPSCs for this purpose. We established iPSC-derived collagen α5(IV)-expressing kidney organoids and confirmed that kidney organoids from COL4A5 mutation-corrected iPSCs restore collagen α5(IV) protein expression. Importantly, our model recapitulates the differences in collagen composition between iPSC-derived kidney organoids from mild and severe AS cases. Furthermore, we demonstrate that a chemical chaperone, 4-phenyl butyric acid, has the potential to correct GBM abnormalities in kidney organoids showing mild AS phenotypes. This iPSC-derived kidney organoid model will contribute to drug discovery for AS.
A macroevolutionary common-garden experiment reveals differentially evolvable bone organization levels in slow arboreal mammals
Authors: Alfieri Fabio , Botton-Divet Léo , Wölfer Jan , Nyakatura John A. , Amson Eli
Published: September 2023

Eco-morphological convergence, i.e., similar phenotypes evolved in ecologically convergent taxa, naturally reproduces a common-garden experiment since it allows researchers to keep ecological factors constant, studying intrinsic evolutionary drivers. The latter may result in differential evolvability that, among individual anatomical parts, causes mosaic evolution. Reconstructing the evolutionary morphology of the humerus and femur of slow arboreal mammals, we addressed mosaicism at different bone anatomical spatial scales. We compared convergence strength, using it as indicator of evolvability, between bone external shape and inner structure, with the former expected to be less evolvable and less involved in convergent evolution, due to anatomical constraints. We identify several convergent inner structural traits, while external shape only loosely follows this trend, and we find confirmation for our assumption in measures of convergence magnitude. We suggest that future macroevolutionary reconstructions based on bone morphology should include structural traits to better detect ecological effects on vertebrate diversification.
SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers pro-atherogenic inflammatory responses in human coronary vessels
Authors: Eberhardt Natalia , Noval Maria Gabriela , Kaur Ravneet , Amadori Letizia , Gildea Michael , Sajja Swathy , Das Dayasagar , Cilhoroz Burak , Stewart O’ Jay , Fernandez Dawn M. , Shamailova Roza , Vasquez Guillen Andrea , Jangra Sonia , Schotsaert Michael , Newman Jonathan D. , Faries Peter , Maldonado Thomas , Rockman Caron , Rapkiewicz Amy , Stapleford Kenneth A. , Narula Navneet , Moore Kathryn J. , Giannarelli Chiara
Published: September 2023

Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) present increased risk for ischemic cardiovascular complications up to 1 year after infection. Although the systemic inflammatory response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection likely contributes to this increased cardiovascular risk, whether SARS-CoV-2 directly infects the coronary vasculature and attendant atherosclerotic plaques remains unknown. Here we report that SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA is detectable and replicates in coronary lesions taken at autopsy from severe COVID-19 cases. SARS-CoV-2 targeted plaque macrophages and exhibited a stronger tropism for arterial lesions than adjacent perivascular fat, correlating with macrophage infiltration levels. SARS-CoV-2 entry was increased in cholesterol-loaded primary macrophages and dependent, in part, on neuropilin-1. SARS-CoV-2 induced a robust inflammatory response in cultured macrophages and human atherosclerotic vascular explants with secretion of cytokines known to trigger cardiovascular events. Our data establish that SARS-CoV-2 infects coronary vessels, inducing plaque inflammation that could trigger acute cardiovascular complications and increase the long-term cardiovascular risk.
Correction: Induced UV photon sensing properties in narrow bandgap CdTe quantum dots through controlling hot electron dynamics
Authors: Thrupthika Thankappan , Nataraj Devaraj , Ramya Subramaniam , Sangeetha Arumugam , Thangadurai T. Daniel
Published: September 2023

Correction for ‘Induced UV photon sensing properties in narrow bandgap CdTe quantum dots through controlling hot electron dynamics’ by Thankappan Thrupthika et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3cp02424e.
Physicochemical properties, phenolic content andin vitrodigestion profile of Chinese black rice (Oryza sativaL.)
Authors: Ye Shuxin , Qin Jiabin , Zongo Abel Wend-Soo , Li Jing , Liang Hongshan , Li Bin
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the physicochemical properties, phenolic content andin vitrodigestion profile of Chinese black rice under gradient milling treatment.
Highly efficient oil-fouling and foam removal achieved by surfactant mixed systems
Authors: Zhao Zeyu , Wang Tengda , Yue Jiling , Fan Yaxun , Wang Yilin
Published: September 2023

Reducing surfactant usage & promoting safety, efficiency, sustainability.
Development of electrical conductivity-based photosensitive switching devices using metal complexes with Schiff base ligands
Authors: Halder Shibashis
Published: September 2023

Schiff base-containing metal complexes can be used in fabrication of electrical conductivity-based photosensitive switching devices. Comprehensive research in this field can be significantly beneficial for the electronic industry.
Complexity of αvβ6-integrin targeting RGD peptide trimers: emergence of non-specific binding by synergistic interaction
Authors: Quigley Neil Gerard , Richter Frauke , Kossatz Susanne , Notni Johannes
Published: September 2023

A single O atom at the right position halves liver uptake of αvβ6-integrin targeting RGD peptide trimers. As there is no correlation with polarity proxies, this is interpreted as an emergent phenomenon arising from loss of synergistic interaction.
Cronobacter sakazakii infection implicates multifaceted neuro-immune regulatory pathways of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: VenkataKrishna Lappasi Mohanram , Balasubramaniam Boopathi , Sushmitha T. J. , Ravichandiran V. , Balamurugan Krishnaswamy
Published: September 2023

Host–pathogen interactions between C. sakazakii and C. elegans: insights from transcriptional and translational observations highlighting the role of neuro-immune signaling pathway regulatory players.
Green synthesis of fluorescent carbon nanodots from sage leaves for selective anticancer activity on 2D liver cancer cells and 3D multicellular tumor spheroids
Authors: Sawalha Shadi , Abdallah Samer , Barham Amal , Badawi Hala , Barham Zeina , Ghareeb Ahmad , Misia Giuseppe , Collavini Silvia , Silvestri Alessandro , Prato Maurizio , Assali Mohyeddin
Published: September 2023

Green synthesis of carbon nanodots (CNDs) from sage leaves has been achieved using a hydrothermal technique. The synthesized CNDs demonstrated selective anticancer activity against hepatocellular carcinoma and hindered the formation of 3D spheroids.
Stille polycondensation: a multifaceted approach towards the synthesis of polymers with semiconducting properties
Authors: Liang Zhen , Neshchadin Andriy , Zhang Zhen , Zhao Fu-Gang , Liu Xunshan , Yu Luping
Published: September 2023

Recent years have witnessed the rapid development of numerous organic polymer-based semiconductors for applications in areas ranging from organic electronics to bioimaging and biosensing.
Pore environment reinforced laser dye fluorescence in an adenine-containing metal–organic framework with pocket-like channels
Authors: Xu Li-Li , Cai Hong , Luo Dong , Li Mian , Huang Yong-Liang , Zhu Jie-Ji , Xie Mo , Chen Zi-Wei , Li Dan
Published: September 2023

Confinement laser dye into two novel adenine-containing metal-organic frameworks with the same components but different pore environments and topologies exhibited distinct adsorptive luminescence behaviours.
3D shape morphing of stimuli-responsive composite hydrogels
Authors: Li Xiao , Li Minghao , Tang Lisa , Shi Diwei , Lam Emily , Bae Jinhye
Published: September 2023

Programmable 3D shape morphing of stimuli-responsive hydrogels is of great interest for the fabrication of soft actuators and robots. The corporation of hydrogel matrices and functional additives is discussed in this review.
Stereoselective formal alkenylation of β,β-disubstituted enesulfinamides for constructing 1,5- and 1,4-dicarbonyl derivatives bearing less-accessible acyclic α-quaternary stereocenters
Authors: Zhu Chong-Lin , Lu Chong-Dao
Published: September 2023

One-pot conjugate addition–elimination cascade to afford α-alkenylated 1,5- and 1,4-dicarbonyl derivatives bearing less-accessible acyclic quaternary α-stereocenters with high stereocontrol.
Cross-metathesis of technical grade methyl oleate for the synthesis of bio-based polyesters and polyamides
Authors: Krzesiński Paweł , César Vincent , Grela Karol , Santos Sergio , Ortiz Pablo
Published: September 2023

A process for the self-cross metathesis of technical grade methyl oleate, containing 20 wt% of methyl linoleate, has been developed. Subsequent polycondensation with a co-monomer (diol or diamine) resulted in the formation of polymeric materials.
Screening the deep eutectic electrolytes for supercapacitors with alleviated self-discharge
Authors: Huang Wenxia , Yan Xiaohui , Xiong Yige , Guo Qihui , Zhang Xin , Huang Fengyu , Shi Houqiang , Ge Xiang
Published: September 2023

The functional groups in HBD for deep eutectic electrolytes have a profound impact on the self-discharge of supercapacitors.
A lightweight bus passenger detection model based on YOLOv5
Authors: Li Xiaosong , Wu Yanxia , Fu Yan , Zhang Lidan , Hong Ruize
Published: September 2023

The bus passenger detection algorithm is a key component of a public transportation bus management system. The detection techniques based on the convolutional neural network have been widely used in bus passenger detection. However, they require high memory and computational requirements, which hinder the deployment of bus passenger detectors in the bus system. In this paper, a lightweight bus passenger detection model based on YOLOv5 is introduced. To make the model more lightweight, the inner and outer cross‐stage bottleneck modules, called ICB and OCB, respectively, are proposed. The proposed module reduces the quantity of parameter and floating point operations and increases the detection speed. In addition, the neighbour feature attention pooling is adopted to improve detection accuracy. The performance of the lightweight model on the bus passenger dataset is empirically demonstrated. The experiment results demonstrate that the proposed model is lightweight and efficient. Compared lightweight YOLOv5n with the original algorithm, the model weight is reduced by 31% to 2.6M, and the detection speed is increased by 6% to 40FPS without an accuracy drop.
Revealing the hidden diversity of Gyrodactylus communities (Monogenea, Gyrodactylidae) from Nearctic Catostomidae and Leuciscidae fish hosts (Teleostei, Cypriniformes), with descriptions of ten new species
Authors: Rahmouni Chahrazed , Seifertová Mária , Šimková Andrea
Published: September 2023

Despite the high diversity of freshwater fishes in the Nearctic region, little is known about the composition of their parasite communities. We addressed the diversity of viviparous monogeneans of Gyrodactylus parasitizing highly diversified cypriniform fish inhabiting Nearctic watersheds. Nowadays, a thorough assessment of Gyrodactylus spp. diversity requires both morphological traits and genetic data. A combination of taxonomically important haptoral features and sequences of the ITS regions and 18S rDNA revealed 25 Gyrodactylus spp. parasitizing two catostomid and 15 leuciscid species sampled in six distinct localities in the United States and Canada. These include ten Gyrodactylus species recognized as new to science and described herein (G. ellae n. sp., G. hamdii n. sp., G. hanseni n. sp., G. huyseae n. sp., G. kuchtai n. sp., G. lummei n. sp., G. mendeli n. sp., G. prikrylovae n. sp., G. scholzi n. sp., and G. steineri n. sp.), seven already known species, and finally eight undescribed species. Overall, Nearctic Gyrodactylus spp. exhibited haptoral morphotypes known from fish hosts worldwide and those apparently restricted to Nearctic Gyrodactylus lineages like the typical ventral bar with a median knob and a plate-like membrane, or the additional filament attached to the handles of marginal hooks. The integrative approach further evidenced possible ongoing gene flow, host-switching in generalist Gyrodactylus spp., and regional translocation of monogenean fauna through fish introductions. The study highlights the hitherto underexplored morphological and genetic diversity of viviparous monogeneans throughout the Nearctic region.
Let’s Talk About Sex: Tyrolean Online Study on Reproductive Health Issues
Authors: Hosa Hanna , Böttcher Bettina , Schatzl Valentina , Gahl Mirjam , Weigel Bettina , Riedl David , Reiser Elisabeth , Mariacher Petra , Toth Coco , Toth Bettina
Published: September 2023

The way pupils and university students talk about sex does not reflect their real understanding of reproductive health issues. Therefore, we developed a survey for pupils and students in
Tyrol, Austria, to evaluate the current state of knowledge.

Two questionnaires with 39 items for pupils (n = 369) and 53 items for university students (n = 537) were developed, and an online survey was carried out in Tyrol, Austria, between April
and July 2022. A sum score for each correct answer to ten identical items in both questionnaires was used to compare groups (range: 0–11 points), with analysis performed using independent
sample t-test, analyses of variance (ANOVAs) and chi-square test.

With regards to reproductive health issues and fertility awareness, female vs. male participants (p < 0.001), university students vs. pupils (p < 0.001) and medical students vs.
other students (p < 0.001) had greater knowledge. Participants who had already had sexual intercourse showed a broader knowledge of contraception and fertility (p < 0.001).

The age at which the decline of female fertility becomes relevant was misstated by the adolescents, who gave a mean age of 42.6 years compared to university students who asserted a mean
age of 35.9 years (p < 0.001). Overall, the lowest rate of correct answers was found with respect to emergency contraception (30.7%), while knowledge of contraceptive methods was
comparatively high (99.2%).

Substantial lack of knowledge of reproductive health issues exists, with differences found between pupils and university students, between genders, and according to field of study. Future
health and fertility awareness programs at school and university should focus on gender-specific aspects to prevent unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and
childlessness.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Early Gastric Cancer in A Cirrhotic Patient: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Tyagi Unique , Sundaram Sridhar , Jain Aadish Kumar , Mahajan Akhil , Puri Rahul , Patil Prachi , Mehta Shaesta
Published: September 2023

Endoscopic resection techniques like endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection have become the cornerstone for the management of early cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Risks associated with endoscopic resection may be exacerbated by the presence of background cirrhosis with its attendant complications. With complex alterations in hemostasis in patients with cirrhosis, management of patients undergoing endoscopic resection is more challenging. In this article we discuss a case of early gastric cancer in a patient with background chronic liver disease and thrombocytopenia managed using endoscopic submucosal dissection.
Predicting outcome in organophosphorus poisoning using RBC cholinesterase and serum cholinesterase values: A hospital-based longitudinal study
Authors: Kar Saswati , Mohanty Nihar Ranjan , Panda Bhagyashree , Rattan Roma , Choudhury Anurag , Panda Suchismita , Rout Pramod Kumar , Das Bhaktabandhu , Prusty Biswaranjan , Thatoi Pravat Kumar
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

Organophosphorus (OP) poisoning is a leading cause of mortality due to self-harm in Asian countries, including India. Red blood cell cholinesterase (RBC-ChE) and serum cholinesterase (serum-ChE) levels are used for predicting outcomes. There is a paucity of literature studying the RBC-ChE levels in OP poisoning and comparing it with the serum-ChE levels.

Materials and Methods:

This is a longitudinal study assessing the outcome in OP poisoning patients using the RBC-ChE and serum-ChE levels. Both enzyme levels are compared and correlated for adult patients presenting within 24 hours of consumption of the OP compound. Sensitivity and specificity are measured.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed using SPSS v21. Results of descriptive statistics were expressed as mean T standard deviation (SD) for normally distributed data or median (interquartile range [IQR]) for skewed data for continuous variables and frequency (percentage) for categorical variables.

Results:

Of the 99 OP poisoning patients included, 20 patients did not survive, and 23 patients required ventilatory support. At admission, RBC-ChE (median, interquartile range [IQR]) was significantly different between survivors (45.2 [30.5–60] U/g Hb) and nonsurvivors (6.3 [4.2–13.4] U/g Hb), while serum-ChE (median, IQR) was not statistically different (p = 0.061) between survivors (350 [247–670]) and nonsurvivors (290 [182–415.8]). Similarly, RBC-ChE was significantly different between patients requiring a ventilator and those not requiring a ventilator (6.8 vs. 44.2 U/g Hb), whereas the serum-ChE values measured on admission were not significantly different for patients requiring a ventilator versus those not requiring a ventilator (290 vs. 348 U/L; p = 0.119). At the cutoff of 20 U/g Hb, RBC-ChE had 90.5% sensitivity and 91% specificity in predicting mortality. Kaplan–Meier survival showed the probability of survival decreased to nearly 50% if the time to reach the hospital was ≤4 hours.

Conclusion:

RBC-ChE was superior in predicting outcomes in OP poisoning patients compared with serum-ChE measured on the day of admission.
The Antibiocene – towards an eco-social analysis of humanity’s antimicrobial footprint
Authors: Kirchhelle Claas
Published: September 2023

Over eight decades of mass antimicrobial exposures have changed microbial populations and genes at a global level. This thought piece argues that adequately responding to the anthropogenic transformation of the microbial commons requires reframing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as the pheno- and genotypic signal of a new geological era – an Antibiocene. Thinking through the multiple spatiotemporal, biological, and social scales of this Antibiocene opens important perspectives on the long-term goals of (anti)microbial stewardship, the injustices connected with unequal antimicrobial exposures, and the scale of necessary changes to health, food production, and waste disposal systems. Conceptualising AMR within an Antibiocene also necessitates shifting the political gaze from the clinic and sites of food production to the hitherto neglected environmental domain of One Health, whose terrestrial and aquatic milieus act as crucial reservoirs for antimicrobial substances, antimicrobial resistance genes, and resistant organisms. Finally, disentangling the human and non-human dimensions of the Antibiocene requires working across the humanities, social-, environmental, and biomedical sciences. The thought piece ends by proposing comparative research on particularly contaminated sites as a promising way of reconstructing the microbial, biochemical, and societal fallouts of chronic antimicrobial exposures as well as already existing societal adaptations. Resulting findings will provide orientation for emerging debates on the preservation of our microbial commons and the development of new forms of ‘eubiotic governance’.
The influence of societal nationalist sentiment on trade flows
Authors: Dow Douglas , Cuypers Ilya R. P.
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the world has witnessed a backlash against globalization and a rise in populist and nationalist movements around the world. However, there appears to be little empirical research concerning how these movements, and especially nationalist sentiment, actually influence trade. Therefore, we explore how and when nationalist sentiment within a country influences trade. Our results indicate that the effect of nationalist sentiment on imports is mediated by lower participation in free trade agreements (FTAs) but not via tariffs. Furthermore, we are unable to confirm support for a direct effect of nationalist sentiment on imports, as predicted by the consumer ethnocentricity literature. However, we do find a strong and negative impact of nationalist sentiment on exports. It would appear that nationalist sentiments tend to blunt the desire to export. Psychic distance between the countries appears to magnify the effects of nationalist sentiment on tariffs and FTAs, but not the direct effects on trade. Finally, we also find that custom union membership, such as the EU, negates the effect of nationalist sentiment on tariffs but this cannot be confirmed for FTAs. Overall, our model enriches our understanding of how nationalist sentiment in society affects trade and offers guidance to policymakers.