bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypomagnesaemia with varying degrees of extrarenal symptoms as a consequence of heterozygous CNNM2 variants
Authors: Bosman Willem , Franken Gijs A. C. , de las Heras Javier , Madariaga Leire , Barakat Tahsin Stefan , Oostenbrink Rianne , van Slegtenhorst Marjon , Perdomo-Ramírez Ana , Claverie-Martín Félix , van Eerde Albertien M. , Vargas-Poussou Rosa , Dubourg Laurence Derain , González-Recio Irene , Martínez-Cruz Luis Alfonso , de Baaij Jeroen H. F. , Hoenderop Joost G. J.
Published: March 2024

Variants in the CNNM2 gene are causative for hypomagnesaemia, seizures and intellectual disability, although the phenotypes can be variable. This study aims to understand the genotype–phenotype relationship in affected individuals with CNNM2 variants by phenotypic, functional and structural analysis of new as well as previously reported variants. This results in the identification of seven variants that significantly affect CNNM2-mediated Mg2+ transport. Pathogenicity of these variants is further supported by structural modelling, which predicts CNNM2 structure to be affected by all of them. Strikingly, seizures and intellectual disability are absent in 4 out of 7 cases, indicating these phenotypes are caused either by specific CNNM2 variant only or by additional risk factors. Moreover, in line with sporadic observations from previous reports, CNNM2 variants might be associated with disturbances in parathyroid hormone and Ca2+ homeostasis.
The impact of input node placement in the controllability of structural brain networks
Authors: Alizadeh Darbandi Seyed Samie , Fornito Alex , Ghasemi Abdorasoul
Published: March 2024

Network controllability refers to the ability to steer the state of a network towards a target state by driving certain nodes, known as input nodes. This concept can be applied to brain networks for studying brain function and its relation to the structure, which has numerous practical applications. Brain network controllability involves using external signals such as electrical stimulation to drive specific brain regions and navigate the neurophysiological activity level of the brain around the state space. Although controllability is mainly theoretical, the energy required for control is critical in real-world implementations. With a focus on the structural brain networks, this study explores the impact of white matter fiber architecture on the control energy in brain networks using the theory of how input node placement affects the LCC (the longest distance between inputs and other network nodes). Initially, we use a single input node as it is theoretically possible to control brain networks with just one input. We show that highly connected brain regions that lead to lower LCCs are more energy-efficient as a single input node. However, there may still be a need for a significant amount of control energy with one input, and achieving controllability with less energy could be of interest. We identify the minimum number of input nodes required to control brain networks with smaller LCCs, demonstrating that reducing the LCC can significantly decrease the control energy in brain networks. Our results show that relying solely on highly connected nodes is not effective in controlling brain networks with lower energy by using multiple inputs because of densely interconnected brain network hubs. Instead, a combination of low and high-degree nodes is necessary.
Molecular characterization of non-aureus staphylococci and Mammaliicoccus from Hipposideros bats in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Adesoji Tomiwa O. , George Uwem E. , Sulayman Taofiq A. , Uwanibe Jessica N. , Olawoye Idowu B. , Igbokwe Joseph O. , Olanipekun Tobi G. , Adeleke Richard A. , Akindoyin Akintayo I. , Famakinwa Temitope J. , Adamu Andrew M. , Terkuma Christabel A. , Ezekiel Grace O. , Eromon Philomena E. , Happi Anise N. , Fadare Taiwo O. , Shittu Adebayo O. , Happi Christian T.
Published: March 2024

Bats are not only ecologically valuable mammals but also reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens. Their vast population, ability to fly, and inhabit diverse ecological niches could play some role in the spread of antibiotic resistance. This study investigated non-aureus staphylococci and Mammaliicoccus colonization in the Hipposideros bats at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Pharyngeal samples (n = 23) of the insectivorous bats were analyzed, and the presumptive non-aureus staphylococcal and Mammaliicoccus isolates were confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The isolates were characterized based on antibiotic susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Six bacterial genomes were assembled, and three species were identified, including Mammaliicoccus sciuri (n = 4), Staphylococcus gallinarum (n = 1), and Staphylococcus nepalensis (n = 1). All the isolates were resistant to clindamycin, while the M. sciuri and S. gallinarum isolates were also resistant to fusidic acid. WGS analysis revealed that the M. sciuri and S. gallinarum isolates were mecA-positive. In addition, the M. sciuri isolates possessed some virulence (icaA, icaB, icaC, and sspA) genes. Multi-locus sequence typing identified two new M. sciuri sequence types (STs) 233 and ST234. The identification of these new STs in a migratory mammal deserves close monitoring because previously known ST57, ST60, and ST65 sharing ack (8), ftsZ (13), glpK (14), gmk (6), and tpiA (10) alleles with ST233 and ST234 have been linked to mastitis in animals. Moreover, the broad host range of M. sciuri could facilitate the dispersal of antibiotic resistance genes. This study provides evidence of the importance of including migratory animals in monitoring the development and spread of antibiotic resistance.
X-irradiated umbilical cord blood cells retain their regenerative effect in experimental stroke
Authors: Yasui Kazuta , Ogawa Yuko , Saino Orie , Akamatsu Rie , Fuchizaki Akihiro , Irie Yoriko , Nabetani Makoto , Tanaka Mitsunobu , Takihara Yoshihiro , Taguchi Akihiko , Kimura Takafumi
Published: March 2024

Although regenerative therapy with stem cells is believed to be affected by their proliferation and differentiation potential, there is insufficient evidence regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying this regenerative effect. We recently found that gap junction-mediated cell–cell transfer of small metabolites occurred very rapidly after stem cell treatment in a mouse model of experimental stroke. This study aimed to investigate whether the tissue repair ability of umbilical cord blood cells is affected by X-irradiation at 15 Gy or more, which suppresses their proliferative ability. In this study, X-irradiated mononuclear (XR) cells were prepared from umbilical cord blood. Even though hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell activity was diminished in the XR cells, the regenerative activity was surprisingly conserved and promoted recovery from experimental stroke in mice. Thus, our study provides evidence regarding the possible therapeutic mechanism by which damaged cerebrovascular endothelial cells or perivascular astrocytes may be rescued by low-molecular-weight metabolites supplied by injected XR cells in 10 min as energy sources, resulting in improved blood flow and neurogenesis in the infarction area. Thus, XR cells may exert their tissue repair capabilities by triggering neo-neuro-angiogenesis, rather than via cell-autonomous effects.
Mineralogical compositions of soils under three geological formations in some parts of Ogun state, Nigeria and their agricultural potentials
Authors: Adekiya Aruna Olasekan , Ajayi Grace Atinuke , Adegbite Kehinde Abodunde , Imhanze Faith Luciana , Ibaba Ayibanoa Lekoo
Published: March 2024

Investigating the mineralogical compositions of soils under different geological formations becomes imperative for maximizing agricultural productivity and ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural practices. Therefore, studies were carried out on mineral compositions and diversities of soils developed over the Basement complex rock, Coastal plain sands and Ewekoro formations in Ogun state Nigeria. A total of nine profile pits (three per location) of 2 m × 1 m × 2 m size were dug in all the three locations. Soil samples were collected from the pedogenic horizons of each profile pits in replicates into a well labeled polyethylene bag. Using X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) the mineral contents and their relative abundance, elemental compositions and morphologies of the fine sand, coarse silt and clay fractions of the soils at different topographic positions were identified, described and compared. Results obtained from XRD and SEM analyses exhibited similarities. The most abundant elements in the basement complex and Ewekoro pedon were oxygen, carbon and silicon whereas in the coastal plain sand pedon, oxygen, carbon and aluminum were the most abundant element. The presence of mixed-layer illite, mica, kaolinite, quartz, hematite, anatase, goethite, and chlorite at varying degrees was observed in the pedons developed on these geological formations, although kaolinite and quartz dominated the soil matrix. The mineralogical complexity of the pedons followed the order of basement complex > coastal plain sand > Ewekoro formation. Profiles developed on the Ewekoro formation exhibited the highest degree of weathering, as evidenced by their chemical properties and mineralogical compositions. The petrographic evaluation of the three geological formations revealed that all pedons were rich in quartz and exhibited varying degrees of mineral complexity and maturation. The overlapping and distinct characteristics among the geologies indicated different stages of weathering. By using the mineral maturity index, profiles developed over the basement complex rock and the coastal plain sand could be regarded as sub-matured and this could have contributed significantly to the native fertility of these soils and profiles from the Ewekoro formation were the most weathered. The use of Ewekoro formation for agriculture would necessitate significant investments in agro-inputs and sound principles of soil management through integrated soil fertility management.
Determination and risk assessment of aflatoxin B1 in the kernel of imported raw hazelnuts from Eastern Azerbaijan Province of Iran
Authors: Samimi Parnian , Aslani Ramin , Molaee-Aghaee Ebrahim , Sadighara Parisa , Shariatifar Nabi , Jahed Khaniki Gholamreza , Ozcakmak Sibel , Reshadat Zahra
Published: March 2024

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is widespread and seriously threatens public health worldwide. This study aimed to investigate AFB1 in imported hazelnut samples in northwest of Iran (Eastern Azerbaijan Province) using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with a Fluorescent Detector (HPLC-FLD). In all tested samples AFB1 was detected. The mean concentration of AFB1 was 4.20 μg/kg and ranged from 3.145 to 8.13 μg/kg. All samples contained AFB1 levels within the maximum acceptable limit except for one sample. Furthermore, the human health risk assessment of AFB1 from consuming imported hazelnuts by Iranian children and adults was evaluated based on the margin of exposure (MoE) and quantitative liver cancer risk approaches. The MoE mean for children was 2529.76, while for adults, it was 8854.16, indicating a public health concern. The present study found that the risk of developing liver cancer among Iranian children was 0.11100736 per 100,000 people, and in the Iranian adult population was 0.0314496 cancers per 100,000 people. Since environmental conditions potentially affect aflatoxin levels in nuts, countries are advised to monitor aflatoxin contents in imported nuts, especially from countries with a conducive climate for mold growth.
Nutritional knowledge, nutritional status and associated factors among pregnant adolescents in the West Arsi Zone, central Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Adane , Adissu Yohannes , Tamiru Dessalegn , Belachew Tefera
Published: March 2024

When pregnancy occur among teenagers; there is a competition for nutrients between the still-growing adolescent mother and her fetus. Pregnant adolescents’ nutrition issues are not addressed well and changes are too slow in Ethiopia. This study aimed to study, nutrition knowledge, nutritional status and associated factors among pregnant adolescents in West Arsi , central Ethiopia. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 426 pregnant adolescents between January 1 and January 25, 2023. Data were collected using kobo collect and analyzed using SPSS version 25. We performed linear regression to identify independent predictors of nutritional status and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify nutritional knowledge. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were estimated to show the strength of the association. Magnitude of good nutrition knowledge was 23.7%, 95% CI (21.4–25.3%), and the odds of having good nutrition knowledge was 7.5 times higher among participants whose education level was above college compared with illiterate participants [(AOR = 7.5, 95% CI = (5.27–9.38)],the odds of having good nutrition knowledge was 8 times higher among adolescent who had ANC visits, [(AOR = 8, 95% CI = (3.63–13.85)], and the odds of having good nutrition knowledge was 5 times higher among adolescents who received nutrition education [(AOR = 5, 95% CI = (3.67- 13.53)]. Receiving nutrition education (β = 0.25, P = 0.002) and good nutrition knowledge (β = 0.08, P < 0.001) were positively associated with nutritional status; however, food insecurity (β = − 0.93, P < 0.001) was negatively associated with nutritional status. The nutrition knowledge of pregnant adolescents was suboptimal; educational status, ANC visits and nutrition education were associated with good nutrition knowledge, whereas food insecurity, low nutrition knowledge, and not receiving nutrition education were predictors of poor nutritional status. Nutritional education interventions, increasing utilization of ANC, and interventions for improving food security are strongly recommended.
The embryo-oil drop assembly: the timing and morphology of a critical event for fish early-life history survival
Authors: Nande Manuel , Pérez Montse , Presa Pablo
Published: March 2024

Egg specific gravity is of relevance for fish recruitment since the ability to float influences egg and larvae development, dispersal and connectivity between fishing grounds. Using zootechnics, histological approaches, optical and electronic transmission microscopy, this study describes the morphogenetic mechanism of adhesion of the oil-drop covering layer (OCL) to the oil droplet (OD) in embryos of Merluccius merluccius under physical conditions reflecting the marine environment. The herein described primordial (p)OCL is a substructure of the inner yolk syncytial layer which contains egg organella aimed to mobilize lipidic reserves from the oil drop (OD) towards the embryo blood. It is shown that the timely OD-OCL assembly is a critical morphogenetic process for embryo and larvae survival. Such assembly depends on egg buoyance because of its influence on the embryo capacity to rotate within the perivitelline space. Therefore, oil droplet adhesion (ODA) eggs are capable to complete their development while oil droplet non-adhesion eggs (ODNA) dye soon after hatching. We show that gravity-dependent egg buoyance categories exhibit different ODA/ODNA ratios (0–77%) and that relationship diminishes under incubation systems such as sprayers, that do not assure a dynamic seawater surface mixing to avoid egg desiccation. As an adaptive trait, egg gravity strongly depends on oceanic properties such as current dynamics, turbulence, oxygen, rainfall, and salinity, whose rapid changes would likely challenge the sustainability of fisheries recruitment.
Soil burial-induced degradation of cellulose films in a moisture-controlled environment
Authors: Rumi Shaida S. , Liyanage Sumedha , Abidi Noureddine
Published: March 2024

In this study, the biodegradability of cellulose films was evaluated in controlled-moisture soil environments. The films were prepared from low-quality cotton fibers through dissolution in DMAc/LiCl, casting, regeneration, glycerol plasticization, and hot-pressing. Two soil burial degradation experiments were conducted in August 2020 (11th August to 13th October) and March 2021 (24th March to 24th July) under controlled moisture conditions to assess the biodegradation behavior of cellulose films. The films were retrieved from soil beds at seven-day intervals, and morphological and physicochemical changes in the films were investigated. The results indicated that the cellulose films exhibited gradual changes starting on Day 7 and major changes after Day 35. Stereomicroscopy images showed the growth and development of fungal mycelia on the surface of the films, and FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of biomolecules originating from microorganisms. The tensile strength and elongation of cellulose films were significantly reduced by 64% and 96% in the first experiment and by 40% and 94% in the second experiment, respectively, during the degradation period. Degradation also significantly impacted the thermal stability (14% and 16.5% reduction, respectively, in the first and second studies) of the films. The cellulose-based films completely degraded within 63 days in late summer and 112 days in spring. This study demonstrates that, unlike synthetic plastics, films prepared from low-quality cotton fibers can easily degrade in the natural environment.
Aneuploidy is frequent in heterozygous diploid and triploid hydatidiform moles
Authors: Walbum P. , Andreasen L. , Geilswijk M. , Niemann I. , Sunde L.
Published: March 2024

Hydatidiform moles are abnormal conceptuses. Many hydatidiform moles are diploid androgenetic, and of these, most are homozygous in all loci. Additionally, most hydatidiform moles are euploid. Using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) array analysis, in two studies a higher frequency of aneuploidy was observed in diploid androgenetic heterozygous conceptuses, than in their homozygous counterparts. In the Danish Mole Project, we analyze conceptuses suspected to be hydatidiform moles due to the clinical presentation, using karyotyping and Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis. Among 278 diploid androgenetic conceptuses, 226 were homozygous in all loci and 52 (18.7%) were heterozygous in several loci. Among 142 triploid diandric conceptuses, 141 were heterozygous for paternally inherited alleles in several loci. Here we show that the frequencies of aneuploidy in diploid androgenetic heterozygous and triploid diandric heterozygous conceptuses were significantly higher than the frequency of aneuploidy in diploid androgenetic homozygous conceptuses. In diploid androgenetic and triploid diandric conceptuses that are heterozygous for paternally inherited alleles, the two paternally inherited sets of genomes originate in two spermatozoa. Each spermatozoon provides one pair of centrioles to the zygote. The presence of two pairs of centrioles may cause an increased risk of aneuploidy.
Social support during pregnancy and the risk of postpartum depression in Polish women: A prospective study
Authors: Żyrek Joanna , Klimek Magdalena , Apanasewicz Anna , Ciochoń Aleksandra , Danel Dariusz P. , Marcinkowska Urszula M. , Mijas Magdalena , Ziomkiewicz Anna , Galbarczyk Andrzej
Published: March 2024

Social support has been proposed as an important determinant of women's physical and emotional well-being during pregnancy and after childbirth. Our study aimed to examine the association between the risk of postpartum depression (PPD) and perceived social support during pregnancy. A web-based prospective study survey was conducted among Polish women. The level of social support was measured with the Berlin Social Support Scales during pregnancy. Four weeks after the birth the risk of PPD was assessed using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale. Data from 932 mothers aged 19–43 (mean 30.95; SD 3.83) were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression. Higher perceived available support (emotional and instrumental), currently received support (emotional, instrumental and informational), satisfaction with the support, and sum of score were all associated with lower risk of PPD, after controlling for selected covariates (woman's age, socioeconomic status, parity status, place of residency, education, child's Apgar score, type of delivery, complications during birth, kin assisting the labor, breastfeeding). Our results suggest that the more social support the pregnant woman receives, the lower is her risk of PPD. Since humans evolved as cooperative breeders, they are inherently reliant on social support to raise children and such allomaternal help could improve maternal well-being.
Resting-state functional connectivity and structural differences between smokers and healthy non-smokers
Authors: Weidler Carmen , Gramegna Chiara , Müller Dario , Schrickel Maike , Habel Ute
Published: March 2024

Previous studies have shown an association between cigarette use and altered resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in many large-scale networks, sometimes complemented by measures of cortical atrophy. In this study, we aimed to further explore the neural differences between smokers and healthy non-smokers through the integration of functional and structural analyses. Imaging data of fifty-two smokers and forty-five non-smokers were analyzed through an independent component analysis for group differences in rsFC. Smokers showed lower rsFC within the dorsal attention network (DAN) in the left superior and middle frontal gyrus and left superior division of the lateral occipital cortex compared to non-smokers; moreover, cigarette use was found to be associated with reduced grey matter volume in the left superior and middle frontal gyrus and right orbitofrontal cortex, partly overlapping with functional findings. Within smokers, daily cigarette consumption was positively associated with increased rsFC within the cerebellar network and the default mode network and decreased rsFC within the visual network and the salience network, while carbon monoxide level showed a positive association with increased rsFC within the sensorimotor network. Our results suggest that smoking negatively impacts rsFC within the DAN and that changes within this network might serve as a circuit-based biomarker for structural deficits.
Case study on long-term deformation monitoring and numerical simulation of layered rock slopes on both sides of Wudongde dam reservoir area
Authors: Ding Chen , Xue Kaixi , Zhou Chaohui
Published: March 2024

Layered rock slope exists widely. Because of its special slope structure, it is prone to bending deformation and toppling failure, which is a serious threat to engineering construction and safety operation. At present, the research of layered rock slope still has great innovation potential. During the construction of Wudongde Hydropower Station on Jinsha River, safety and stability problems such as slope geological structure development, face rock unloading and relaxation, and even slip and large deformation were encountered. Through field exploration, it is found that the rock and soil stratification of the slope on both sides of Wudongde Hydropower Station is highly obvious. At present, there is a lack of research on-site long-term displacement monitoring of layered rock high-steep slope, especially for layered slope in complex hydrogeology and construction environment. In order to strengthen the research on the deformation and stability of layered rock slope, this paper analyzes the measured displacement data of Wudongde hydropower station slope, and establishes three-dimensional geological finite element model with the help of numerical simulation software. The stability of the slope is calculated by combining the finite difference method and the strength reduction method. Finally, the evolution mechanism of the deformation of the layered rock slope is explained according to the geological structure characteristics. The main conclusions of this paper are as follows: the layered slope in the dam reservoir area is prone to deformation under the combined action of long-term construction disturbance and fissure water seepage, and the construction disturbance has a strong influence on the artificial excavation area below 1070 m, and the maximum rock mass deformation and surface displacement in the artificial excavation area of the slope reach 92.2 mm and 312.5 mm, respectively. However, the influence of construction disturbance on the natural mountain above 1070 m is limited, the valley deformation of the natural mountain on the left bank of the reservoir area is higher than that on the right bank, and the cumulative deformation is still less than 20 mm. The influence of seepage on the displacement of the area with higher elevation at the top of the slope is more obvious, and the influence of excavation and other disturbances on the displacement of the artificial excavation area with lower elevation is more obvious. The deformation of the river valley in the water cushion pond behind the dam increases slowly, and the change trend of the field deformation data is mostly consistent with that of the numerical calculation. The horizontal shrinkage of the mountains on both sides shows a contraction trend on the whole, and the maximum horizontal shrinkage calculated by numerical simulation is close to 20 mm, which is located at the elevation of 990 m.
Food Compass and the challenge of sustainability on the route towards healthful diets
Authors: Muzzioli Luca , Frigerio Francesco , Mazziotta Matteo , Donini Lorenzo Maria , Pinto Alessandro , Poggiogalle Eleonora
Published: March 2024

In order to tackle the global increase in overweight and obesity prevalence, several nutrient profiling systems have been developed; among others, Food Compass Score (FCS) has been designed to encompass multiple domains of food healthfulness. However, environmental sustainability of healthy diets is another crucial dimension which should not be overlooked in the context of human health. The aim of the present study is to assess the association between healthiness and environmental sustainability of food items, using the FCS and Agribalyse databases, respectively. A total of 806 matching food items were identified, grouped in 12 food categories; within each category, differences in median Z-scores between FCS and Single Environmental Footprint (EF) Score were assessed. While Fruits, Legumes and Nuts, Mixed foods, Meat Poultry and Eggs (MPE), Savory and Sweets, and Vegetables showed statistically significant differences (all p < 0.001), Beverages (p = 0.361), Dairy (p = 0.092), Fats and Oils (p = 0.594), Grains (p = 0.436), Sauce and Condiments (p = 0.093), and Seafood (p = 0.241) had similar Food Compass and Single EF Z-scores distributions. These findings underscore a relevant lack of difference between healthfulness and environmental impact of some prominent food categories, such as Grains and Seafood. Therefore, we suggest matching nutrient profiling systems with adequate environmental sustainability indices.
Wet deposition in shallow convection over the Southern Ocean
Authors: Alinejadtabrizi T. , Lang F. , Huang Y. , Ackermann L. , Keywood M. , Ayers G. , Krummel P. , Humphries R. , Williams A. G. , Siems S. T. , Manton M.
Published: March 2024

Southern Ocean (SO) air is amongst the most pristine on Earth, particularly during winter. Historically, there has been a focus on biogenic sources as an explanation for the seasonal cycle in cloud condensation nuclei concentrations (NCCN). NCCN is also sensitive to the strength of sink terms, although the magnitude of this term varies considerably. Wet deposition, a process encompassing coalescence scavenging (drizzle formation), is one such process that may be especially relevant over the SO. Using a boundary layer cloud climatology, NCCN and precipitation observations from Kennaook/Cape Grim Observatory (CGO), we find a statistically significant difference in NCCN between when the upwind meteorology is dominated by open mesoscale cellular convection (MCC) and closed MCC. When open MCC is dominant, a lower median NCCN (69 cm−3) is found compared to when closed MCC (89 cm−3) is dominant. Open MCC is found to precipitate more heavily (1.72 mm day−1) and more frequently (16.7% of the time) than closed MCC (0.29 mm day−1, 4.5%). These relationships are observed to hold across the seasonal cycle with maximum NCCN and minimum precipitation observed during Austral summer (DJF). Furthermore, the observed MCC morphology strongly depends on meteorological conditions. The relationship between NCCN and precipitation can be further examined across a diurnal cycle during the summer season. Although there was again a negative relationship between precipitation and NCCN, the precipitation cycle was out of phase with the NCCN cycle, leading it by ~3 hours, suggesting other factors, specifically the meteorology play a primary role in influencing precipitation.
Platinum iodido drugs show potential anti-tumor activity, affecting cancer cell metabolism and inducing ROS and senescence in gastrointestinal cancer cells
Authors: Melones-Herrero Jorge , Alcalá Sonia , Ruiz-Cañas Laura , Benítez-Buelga Carlos , Batres-Ramos Sandra , Calés Carmela , Lorenzo Oscar , Perona Rosario , Quiroga Adoración G. , Sainz Bruno , Sánchez-Pérez Isabel
Published: March 2024

Cisplatin-based chemotherapy has associated clinical disadvantages, such as high toxicity and resistance. Thus, the development of new antitumor metallodrugs able to overcome different clinical barriers is a public healthcare priority. Here, we studied the mechanism of action of the isomers trans and cis-[PtI2(isopropylamine)2] (I5 and I6, respectively) against gastrointestinal cancer cells. We demonstrate that I5 and I6 modulate mitochondrial metabolism, decreasing OXPHOS activity and negatively affecting ATP-linked oxygen consumption rate. Consequently, I5 and I6 generated Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), provoking oxidative damage and eventually the induction of senescence. Thus, herein we propose a loop with three interconnected processes modulated by these iodido agents: (i) mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic disruptions; (ii) ROS generation and oxidative damage; and (iii) cellular senescence. Functionally, I5 reduces cancer cell clonogenicity and tumor growth in a pancreatic xenograft model without systemic toxicity, highlighting a potential anticancer complex that warrants additional pre-clinical studies.
Chemical and structural heterogeneity of olive leaves and their trichomes
Authors: Fernández Victoria , Almonte Lisa , Bahamonde Héctor Alejandro , Galindo-Bernabeu Ana , Sáenz-Arce Giovanni , Colchero Jaime
Published: March 2024

Many biological surfaces have hairs, known as trichomes in plants. Here, the wettability and macro- and micro-scale features of olive leaves are analyzed. The upper leaf side has few trichomes, while the lower side has a high trichome density. By combining different techniques including electron and atomic force microscopy, trichome surfaces are found to be chemically (hydrophilic-hydrophobic) heterogeneous at the nano-scale. Both olive leaf surfaces are wettable by water, having a high water contact angle hysteresis and great drop adhesion. The ultra-structural pattern observed for epidermal pavement cells differs from the reticulate cuticle structure of trichomes which shows that leaf surface areas may be substantially different despite being located nearby. Our study provides evidence for the nano-scale chemical heterogeneity of a trichome which may influence the functional properties of biological surfaces, such as water and solute permeability or water capture as discussed here for plants.
High valley-degeneracy electron gas at double perovskite - strontium titanate interface
Authors: Wang Zhao-Cai , Chen Lei , Zhao Weiyao , Li Shuang-Shuang , Zhang Ying , Ying Jing-Shi , Zhang Shu-Juan , Luo Fu-Sheng , Chen Ting-Wei , Ye Mao , Chen Lang , Li Dan-Feng , Cortie David , Karel Julie , Rule Kirrily , Wang Xiaolin , Dai Ji-Yan , Zheng Ren-Kui
Published: March 2024

Emergent phenomena such as two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) and interfacial superconductivity and ferromagnetism are generally built on the interface between insulating oxide thin films and substrates, e.g., LaAlO3/SrTiO3, where the 2D profiles of these electronic states are precisely confined at the interface of two insulators. Herein we report a high-mobility electron gas state with unusual symmetry at the interface of the Sr2CrMoO6/SrTiO3 (110) heterostructures, the fermiology of which follows the cubic crystallographic symmetry rather than the two-dimensional interface itself, resulting in the identical Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations with applied magnetic field along all the twelve equivalent [110] crystallographic directions of SrTiO3, distinctly different from the 2D nature of the electron gas reported previously. Neutron diffraction verifies the predicted ferrimagnetic ordering between Cr and Mo moments. This, together with the magnetic hysteresis loops and negative magnetoresistance in low-field region, suggests possible spin polarization of itinerant electrons. Therefore, a quasi-3D profile, high mobility (up to 104 cm2 V−1 s−1) and possibly spin polarized electronic state is observed in the double-perovskite-based oxide heterostructures. This finding of the electronic properties in Sr2CrMoO6/SrTiO3 (110) heterostructure expands the knowledge of interfacial physics, as well as shines light on oxide-based electronics and spintronics research.
Behavior-encoded models reveal differentiated access to public cooling environment by race and income
Authors: Li Chao , Su Xing , Fan Chao , Han Haoying
Published: March 2024

Extreme heat events caused by continuous anthropogenic climate change have been increasing. Establishing public cooling environments (PCEs) is imperative for protecting public health and enhancing productivity. Yet, disparities in access to PCEs based on race, travel behavior, and income status can undermine their role in helping communities cope with extreme heat. This study investigates the varied access to three types of PCEs across 40 U.S. counties. Our findings reveal that White people enjoy greater access to PCEs than other groups, especially to tree-covered green spaces (TCGSs), outperforming Black people approximately three times. Driving can disproportionately narrow the racial/ethnic inequality gap compared to walking. Non-expense-required public environments (NERPEs) and expense-required public environments (ERPEs) are less accessible to high-income groups. Our research underscores the ongoing challenges in achieving environmental justice through equitable PCE access and stresses the importance of further studies and policy actions to eliminate disparities.
Night-time decline in plant respiration is consistent with substrate depletion
Authors: Jones Simon , Mercado Lina M. , Bruhn Dan , Raoult Nina , Cox Peter M.
Published: March 2024

Understanding the response of plant respiration to climate change is key to determining whether the global land carbon sink continues into the future or declines. Most global vegetation models use a classical growth-maintenance approach, which predicts that nocturnal plant respiration is controlled by temperature only. However, recently published observations of plant respiration show a decline through the night even at constant temperature, which these global models cannot reproduce. Here we assess the role of respiratory substrates in this observed decline by evaluating an alternative model of plant respiration, in which the rate of respiration at constant temperature is instead dependent on the size of available substrate pools. We find that the observed decline in nocturnal respiration is reproduced by a model with just two substrate pools, one fast and one slow. These results demonstrate a need to change the way that plant respiration is represented in global vegetation models, moving to models based on labile pools which represent only a fraction of total plant biomass. These models naturally represent plant acclimation via changing pool-sizes and may have a significant impact on the long-term predictions of the global land carbon sink.
Acoustic emission of lattice structures under cycling loading relates process parameters with fatigue properties
Authors: Kollmannsperger Lea S. , Maurer Oliver , Kose Rebecca , Zeuner Andre T. , Bähre Dirk , Fischer Sarah C. L.
Published: March 2024

Metamaterials, especially lattice structures, are of great interest for many application areas such as aerospace, automotive and medicine due to their adjustable mechanical properties and their low weight. Due to their complex geometry, lattice structures are usually manufactured additively, which causes a large variance in the manufacturing-related mechanical properties. In order to establish metamaterials in industrial applications under cyclic loading, the fatigue behavior needs to be investigated to evaluate the load capacity of these structures. Here we analyze the fatigue behavior of AlSi10Mg truss structures fabricated with L-PBF using a load increase test in combination with acoustic emission measurements. The acoustic signals are evaluated in terms of time-dependent amplitude signal and frequency spectrum. Increasing load and increasing specimen damage resulted in changes of the acoustic spectrum and the amplitude of the time signal. Based on the results, a correlation of specimen properties with build platform position in the manufacturing process could be established. Acoustic emission measurement as an in situ characterization method during cyclic loading is promising for surveillance of lattice structures in safety related applications.
Macroeconomic impact of an international fishery regulation on a small island country
Authors: Guillotreau Patrice , Dissou Yazid , Antoine Sharif , Capello Manuela , Salladarré Frédéric , Tidd Alex , Dagorn Laurent
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the macroeconomic impact of regulating tuna fishing on a small island economy that relies heavily on tourism and fishing for its foreign exchange earnings. While there is scientific consensus to limit the use of drifting fish aggregating devices (dFADs) worldwide, there is no agreement on their optimal number at sea. Resolution 23/02, adopted by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) in February 2023, proposed a 72-day moratorium on dFADs, but this resolution has met with resistance from many contracting parties, including developing countries. To understand the reasons for this resistance, a recursive, multi-sectoral dynamic general equilibrium model is developed for the Republic of Seychelles, a small tuna-dependent country. The model assesses the short- and medium-term macroeconomic impacts of a seasonal dFAD closure for the Indian Ocean tuna fishery. The analysis suggests that a 12% decline in canned tuna exports would result in a −8.8% deviation from the real gross domestic product trend after seven years. Such an impact would have far-reaching effects on the domestic economy, affecting all components of aggregate demand. Consequently, the economy would become more dependent on tourism, which has shown its vulnerability during the recent pandemic crisis. The study highlights the importance of considering social and economic aspects in sustainable fisheries management and provides insights into the potential consequences of dFAD regulations for small island economies.
Ultra-clean pure shift NMR with optimal water suppression for analysis of aqueous pharmaceutical samples
Authors: Dal Poggetto Guilherme , DiCaprio Adam , Reibarkh Mikhail , Cohen Ryan D.
Published: March 2024

Pure shift NMR experiments greatly enhance spectral resolution by collapsing multiplet structures into singlets and, with optimal water suppression, can be used for aqueous samples.
Paper-based sensors: affordable, versatile, and emerging analyte detection platforms
Authors: Malik Sumit , Singh Joginder , Saini Kajal , Chaudhary Vivek , Umar Ahmad , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Akbar Sheikh , Baskoutas Sotirios
Published: March 2024

The schematic representation of distance based paper sensor to identify lead in food samples.
Impacts of rainfall and lakeshore soil properties on microplastics in inland freshwater: A case study in Donghu Lake, China
Authors: Jiang Yan , Yang Yinuo , Zhan Chenxi , Cheng Bo
Published: March 2024

Microplastic (MP) pollution has garnered global attention in recent years.
Exploring negative thermal expansion materials with bulk framework structures and their relevant scaling relationships through multi-step machine learning
Authors: Cai Yu , Wang Chunyan , Yuan Huanli , Guo Yuan , Cho Jun-Hyung , Xing Xianran , Jia Yu
Published: March 2024

We uses the multi-step ML method to mine 1000 potential NTE materials from ICSD, MPD and COD databases, and the presented phase diagram can serve as a preliminary criterion for judging and designing new NTE materials.
Modification of a MoS2 composite membrane using nano-silica for high-efficiency dye separation
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Wu Hongdan , Zhou Zhihui , Zhao Yehao , Li Yuedong
Published: March 2024

A novel MoS2/SiO2 composite membrane with larger interlayer spacing intercalation was prepared by vacuum-assisted self-assembly process using SiO2 nanoparticles, which showed high-efficiency dye separation performance and aqueous stability.
Hydrogen storage efficiency of Fe doped carbon nanotubes: molecular simulation study
Authors: Baghai Bita , Ketabi Sepideh
Published: March 2024

To develop a suitable adsorbent material for H2 storage, Fe doped CNT can be applied due to its improved hydrogen adsorption capacity and selective adsorption surface from the H2/N2 mixture.
Biphasic modulation of tau liquid–liquid phase separation by polyphenols
Authors: Moorthy Hariharan , Kamala Nimsha , Ramesh Madhu , Govindaraju Thimmaiah
Published: March 2024

Polyphenols, notably gallic acid (GA), act as a biphasic modulator of tau liquid–liquid phase separation in a concentration-dependent manner. GA accelerates the sol-to-gel transition and inhibits tau aggregate-associated toxicity.
Photocatalytic hydrogenation of acetophenone over Pd–TiO2 using saccharides as hydrogen sources
Authors: Oto Takahiro , Ikeuchi Kazuma , Tanaka Kosuke , Onda Ayumu , Imamura Kazuya
Published: March 2024

Acetophenone was converted to 1-phenylethanol over a Pd–TiO2 photocatalyst using various saccharides without the use of hydrogen gas, indicating that various saccharides can be used instead of hydrogen gas in this photocatalytic hydrogenation system.
Chromium iodate: the structure and origin of optical second harmonic generation
Authors: Chi Yang , Xin Mei-Ling
Published: March 2024

The transition metal cation centered groups of Cr(IO3)3 play a key role in its large second-harmonic generation effect.
Visible-light-driven three-component annulation for the synthesis of highly functionalized 2-iminothiazolidin-4-ones without photocatalysts
Authors: Yang Beining , Wang Yatang , Yang Xiaojuan , Li Yinyin , Zhang Zhiying , Hua Xiaofeng , Ouyang Lu , Zheng Lvyin , Guo Wei
Published: March 2024

A photocatalyst/base/metal-free protocol for the synthesis of fully substituted 2-iminothiazolidin-4-one derivatives at room temperature using low-energy light sources and mild reaction conditions is described.
Delineating the core and surface state heterogeneity of carbon dots during electron transfer
Authors: Sayyad Umarfaruk S. , Bhatt Himanshu , Ghosh Hirendra N. , Mondal Somen
Published: March 2024

The rate of the electron transfer (ET) process in C-Dots is influenced by both the graphitic nitrogen content in the core state and the oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface. These factors contribute to the heterogeneity in the structure, which in turn affects the ET process.
Identification and quantification of local antiaromaticity in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) based on the magnetic criterion
Authors: Kleinpeter Erich , Koch Andreas
Published: March 2024

The ring current effect of entirely and partly (anti)aromatic PCHs are calculated and employed to visualize, qualify and quantify existing (anti)aromaticity, especially to decide unequivocally between PAHs and PAAHs.
Synthesis of alkynyl sulfides via base-promoted nucleophilic ring-opening of α-bromostyrene sulfonium salt
Authors: Zhou Junqi , Wang Ziyu , Xu Hanmiao , Su Mengke , Wen Jian
Published: March 2024

An effective method for synthesizing various alkynyl sulfides has been developed using tetramethylene sulfoxide as a sulfur source through base-promoted nucleophilic ring-opening reactions.
Colour and surface functional properties of wool fabrics coated with gallnut, feijoa skin, and mango seed kernel tannin-stabilised Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Hassan Mohammad Mahbubul , Gupta Tanushree
Published: March 2024

In this work, synthesis of Ag nanoparticles, and colouration and multifunctionalisation of wool fabric were carried out in a single bath using tannins extracted from various biomasses as a reducing agent and as a stabiliser.
Polyimide-based porous carbon and cobalt nanoparticle composites as high-performance electromagnetic wave absorbers
Authors: Yu Wentao , Lin Jiahui , Zhao Zhaozhang , Fang Jiyong , Wang Ziqing , Huang Jintao , Min Yonggang
Published: March 2024

This study successfully utilized a straightforward approach, choosing liquid–liquid phase separation to build a porous structure and synthesize composite absorbers based on polyimide-based porous carbon and cobalt nanoparticles (designated as PPC/Co-700 and PPC/Co-800).
Modified photoanode by in situ growth of covalent organic frameworks on BiVO4 for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Guo Anni , Wu Xingchun , Ali Syed Husnain , Shen Huawei , Chen Ligong , Li Yang , Wang Bowei
Published: March 2024

COF-Azo and COF-Ben are grown in situ on a modified BiVO4 photoanode, which exhibit better catalytic performance in OER.
Photoelectric performance enhancement of Sn-based perovskites by benzylamine boron trifluoride passivation
Authors: Zheng Wenhao , Peng Xiao , Zhai Wenjing , Huang Lin , Chen Peizhuo , Shi Penghui , Zhou Xiaohui , Wan Jianguo , Yan Zhibo , Liu J.-M.
Published: March 2024

By treatment with benzylamine boron trifluoride, the crystallization quality and stability of the FASnI3 film significantly improved, and the responsivity of optimal PDs is about three times that of PDs without additive.
Photochromic apatite skeletal structure materials: recent advances and potential applications
Authors: Lv Yang , Li Zhenzhang , Zhang Shaoan , Xie Ruihao , Xiong Liangbin , Al-Hada Naif Mohammed , Lin Xiaohui , Wu Haoyi , Li Chonghui
Published: March 2024

This review summarizes the reported photochromic properties of apatite skeletal structure photochromic materials. Apatite-type PC materials exhibit more abundant color changes and absorption bands and centers, creating new and substantial opportunities for adjusting and optimizing PC properties.
A dual-band photodetector based on a mixed-dimensional WSe2/GaN junction
Authors: Chen Shuting , Wang Hui , Yang Yuqing , Liu Shishi , Zhu Lingyu , Wang Xingfu , Huo Nengjie
Published: March 2024

We have successfully fabricated a WSe2/GaN heterojunction with distinct bandgaps and dimensionality, enabling the development of a high-performance visible/ultraviolet dual-band photodetector.
Redox electrolyte mediated performance enhancement in aqueous zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors composed of spinel BaFe2O4 and cubic Cu2O
Authors: Yetiman Sevda , Dokan Fatma Kilic , Onses M. Serdar , Yilmaz Erkan , Ozdemir Ahmet Turan , Sahmetlioglu Ertugrul
Published: March 2024

The conception and advancement of materials for highly efficient electrochemical energy storage devices is of critical importance.