bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic characterization of epithelial ovarian cancer delineates molecular signatures and therapeutic targets in distinct histological subtypes
Authors: Gong Ting-Ting , Guo Shuang , Liu Fang-Hua , Huo Yun-Long , Zhang Meng , Yan Shi , Zhou Han-Xiao , Pan Xu , Wang Xin-Yue , Xu He-Li , Kang Ye , Li Yi-Zi , Qin Xue , Xiao Qian , Huang Dong-Hui , Li Xiao-Ying , Zhao Yue-Yang , Zhao Xin-Xin , Wang Ya-Li , Ma Xiao-Xin , Gao Song , Zhao Yu-Hong , Ning Shang-Wei , Wu Qi-Jun
Published: November 2023

Clear cell carcinoma (CCC), endometrioid carcinoma (EC), and serous carcinoma (SC) are the major histological subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), whose differences in carcinogenesis are still unclear. Here, we undertake comprehensive proteomic profiling of 80 CCC, 79 EC, 80 SC, and 30 control samples. Our analysis reveals the prognostic or diagnostic value of dysregulated proteins and phosphorylation sites in important pathways. Moreover, protein co-expression network not only provides comprehensive view of biological features of each histological subtype, but also indicates potential prognostic biomarkers and progression landmarks. Notably, EOC have strong inter-tumor heterogeneity, with significantly different clinical characteristics, proteomic patterns and signaling pathway disorders in CCC, EC, and SC. Finally, we infer MPP7 protein as potential therapeutic target for SC, whose biological functions are confirmed in SC cells. Our proteomic cohort provides valuable resources for understanding molecular mechanisms and developing treatment strategies of distinct histological subtypes.
Programmable catalysis by support polarization: elucidating and breaking scaling relations
Authors: Jung Seongjoo , Pizzolitto Cristina , Biasi Pierdomenico , Dauenhauer Paul J. , Birol Turan
Published: November 2023

The Sabatier principle and the scaling relations have been widely used to search for and screen new catalysts in the field of catalysis. However, these powerful tools can also serve as limitations of catalyst control and breakthrough. To overcome this challenge, this work proposes an efficient method of studying catalyst control by support polarization from first-principles. The results demonstrate that the properties of catalysts are determined by support polarization, irrespective of the magnitude of spontaneous polarization of support. The approach enables elucidating the scaling relations between binding energies at various polarization values of support. Moreover, we observe the breakdown of scaling relations for the surface controlled by support polarization. By studying the surface electronic structure and decomposing the induced charge into contributions from different atoms and orbitals, we identify the inherent structural property of the interface that leads to the breaking of the scaling relations. Specifically, the displacements of the underlying oxide support impose its symmetry on the catalyst, causing the scaling relations between different adsorption sites to break.
Early reading at first grade predicts adult reading at age 42 in typical and dyslexic readers
Authors: Ferrer Emilio , Shaywitz Bennett A. , Holahan John M. , Shaywitz Sally E.
Published: November 2023

Research indicates that the achievement gap in reading between typical and dyslexic readers is already evident in first grade and persists through adolescence. However, it is not known whether this reading gap persists into adult life. In this report we use an epidemiologic sample of 312 children (typical readers = 246; dyslexic readers = 66), followed longitudinally from age 5 through adulthood and examine two fundamental questions: 1) Is reading level in 1st grade predictive of reading proficiency in adulthood in typical and dyslexic readers? and 2) Are the trajectories of reading development from 1st through 5th grade predictive of reading proficiency in adulthood in typical and dyslexic readers? Our findings indicate that early reading levels in 1st grade as well as the trajectory of reading development through the first five years of school were associated with reading scores in adulthood. This association was stronger for dyslexic than for typical readers, especially the latter factor. These findings indicate that the achievement gap between typical and dyslexic readers persists far beyond adolescence, in fact, into adult life.
Low-cost UAV detection via WiFi traffic analysis and machine learning
Authors: Bi Longtao , Xu Zi-Xin , Yang Ling
Published: November 2023

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have undergoing experienced remarkable advancements. Nevertheless, the growing utilization of UAVs brings forth potential security threats to the public, particularly in private and sensitive locales. To address these emerging hazards, we introduce a low-cost, three-stage UAV detection framework for monitoring invading UAVs in vulnerable zones. This framework devised through an exhaustive investigation of the Chinese UAV market. Various scenarios were examined to evaluate the effectiveness of the framework, and it was subsequently implemented on a portable board. Experiments demonstrated that the proposed framework can detect invading UAVs at an early stage, even in stealthy mode. As such, the framework has the potential to be applied in the formulation of a portable surveillance system for a UAV-restricted region.
Comparison of hydraulic, pneumatic and electric linear actuation systems
Authors: Pustavrh Jan , Hočevar Marko , Podržaj Primož , Trajkovski Ana , Majdič Franc
Published: November 2023

Different applications or industries use different systems for linear actuation, such as hydraulic, pneumatic or electric. Electric systems are becoming increasingly popular and are already replacing hydraulic systems in various applications. These are known to be potentially harmful to the environment, as large amounts of fluid can be released into the environment in the event of a pipe burst or other accident. This paper presents the results of a comparison between hydraulic, pneumatic and electric systems under variable conditions but with similar loads in all three systems. The common feature of all three systems is the input power, which was limited to 1.1 kW. There was no hydraulic accumulator in the hydraulic system and no pressure vessel in the pneumatic system, so no stored energy could influence the system behaviour or results. The main difference between the systems studied was the profile of displacement and power consumption. The most consistent response and lowest power consumption were obtained with the electric system, although both hydraulic and pneumatic systems can achieve consistent response with some modifications.
PepCNN deep learning tool for predicting peptide binding residues in proteins using sequence, structural, and language model features
Authors: Chandra Abel , Sharma Alok , Dehzangi Iman , Tsunoda Tatsuhiko , Sattar Abdul
Published: November 2023

Protein–peptide interactions play a crucial role in various cellular processes and are implicated in abnormal cellular behaviors leading to diseases such as cancer. Therefore, understanding these interactions is vital for both functional genomics and drug discovery efforts. Despite a significant increase in the availability of protein–peptide complexes, experimental methods for studying these interactions remain laborious, time-consuming, and expensive. Computational methods offer a complementary approach but often fall short in terms of prediction accuracy. To address these challenges, we introduce PepCNN, a deep learning-based prediction model that incorporates structural and sequence-based information from primary protein sequences. By utilizing a combination of half-sphere exposure, position specific scoring matrices from multiple-sequence alignment tool, and embedding from a pre-trained protein language model, PepCNN outperforms state-of-the-art methods in terms of specificity, precision, and AUC. The PepCNN software and datasets are publicly available athttps://github.com/abelavit/PepCNN.git.
Spectrum of severity of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children: an EHR-based cohort study from the RECOVER program
Authors: Rao Suchitra , Jing Naimin , Liu Xiaokang , Lorman Vitaly , Maltenfort Mitchell , Schuchard Julia , Wu Qiong , Tong Jiayi , Razzaghi Hanieh , Mejias Asuncion , Lee Grace M. , Pajor Nathan M. , Schulert Grant S. , Thacker Deepika , Jhaveri Ravi , Christakis Dimitri A. , Bailey L. Charles , Forrest Christopher B. , Chen Yong
Published: November 2023

Multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a severe post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, and there is a critical need to unfold its highly heterogeneous disease patterns. Our objective was to characterize the illness spectrum of MIS-C for improved recognition and management. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from March 1, 2020–September 30, 2022, in 8 pediatric medical centers from PEDSnet. We included 1139 children hospitalized with MIS-C and used their demographics, symptoms, conditions, laboratory values, and medications for analyses. We applied heterogeneity-adaptive latent class analyses and identified three latent classes. We further characterized the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the latent classes and evaluated their temporal patterns. Class 1 (47.9%) represented children with the most severe presentation, with more admission to the ICU, higher inflammatory markers, hypotension/shock/dehydration, cardiac involvement, acute kidney injury and respiratory involvement. Class 2 (23.3%) represented a moderate presentation, with 4–6 organ systems involved, and some overlapping features with acute COVID-19. Class 3 (28.8%) represented a mild presentation. Our results indicated that MIS-C has a spectrum of clinical severity ranging from mild to severe and the proportion of severe or critical MIS-C decreased over time.
Linking African ancestral substructure to prostate cancer health disparities
Authors: Gheybi Kazzem , Mmekwa Naledi , Lebelo Maphuti Tebogo , Patrick Sean M. , Campbell Raymond , Nenzhelele Mukudeni , Soh Pamela X. Y. , Obida Muvhulawa , Loda Massimo , Shirindi Joyce , Butler Eboneé N. , Mutambirwa Shingai B. A. , Bornman M. S. Riana , Hayes Vanessa M.
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a significant health burden in Sub-Saharan Africa, with mortality rates loosely linked to African ancestry. Yet studies aimed at identifying contributing risk factors are lacking within the continent and as such exclude for significant ancestral diversity. Here, we investigate a series of epidemiological demographic and lifestyle risk factors for 1387 men recruited as part of the multi-ethnic Southern African Prostate Cancer Study (SAPCS). We found poverty to be a decisive factor for disease grade and age at diagnosis, with other notably significant PCa associated risk factors including sexually transmitted diseases, erectile dysfunction, gynaecomastia, and vertex or complete pattern balding. Aligned with African American data, Black ethnicity showed significant risk for PCa diagnosis (OR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.05–2.00), and aggressive disease presentation (ISUP ≥ 4: OR = 2.25, 95% CI   1.49–3.40). New to this study, we demonstrate African ancestral population substructure associated PCa disparity, observing increased risk for advanced disease for the southern African Tsonga people (ISUP ≥ 4: OR = 3.43, 95% CI   1.62–7.27). Conversely, South African Coloured were less likely to be diagnosed with aggressive disease overall (ISUP ≥ 3: OR = 0.38, 95% 0.17–0.85). Understanding the basis for PCa health disparities calls for African inclusion, however, lack of available data has limited the power to begin discussions. Here, focusing on arguably the largest study of its kind for the African continent, we draw attention to the contribution of within African ancestral diversity as a contributing factor to PCa health disparities within the genetically diverse region of southern Africa.
Aesthetic emotions are affected by context: a psychometric network analysis
Authors: Kenett Yoed N. , Cardillo Eileen R. , Christensen Alexander P. , Chatterjee Anjan
Published: November 2023

Aesthetic emotions are defined as emotions arising when a person evaluates a stimulus for its aesthetic appeal. Whether these emotions are unique to aesthetic activities is debated. We address this debate by examining if recollections of different types of engaging activities entail different emotional profiles. A large sample of participants were asked to recall engaging aesthetic (N = 167), non-aesthetic (N = 160), or consumer (N = 172) activities. They rated the extent to which 75 candidate aesthetic emotions were evoked by these activities. We applied a computational psychometric network approach to represent and compare the space of these emotions across the three conditions. At the behavioral level, recalled aesthetic activities were rated as the least vivid but most intense compared to the two other conditions. At the network level, we found several quantitative differences across the three conditions, related to the typology, community (clusters) and core nodes (emotions) of these networks. Our results suggest that aesthetic and non-aesthetic activities evoke emotional spaces differently. Thus, we propose that aesthetic emotions are distributed differently in a multidimensional aesthetic space than for other engaging activities. Our results highlight the context-specificity of aesthetic emotions.
Substitution spectra of SARS-CoV-2 genome from Pakistan reveals insights into the evolution of variants across the pandemic
Authors: Ashraf Javaria , Bukhari Sayed Ali Raza Shah , Kanji Akbar , Iqbal Tulaib , Yameen Maliha , Nisar Muhammad Imran , Khan Waqasuddin , Hasan Zahra
Published: November 2023

Changing morbidity and mortality due to COVID-19 across the pandemic has been linked with factors such as the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants and vaccination. Mutations in the Spike glycoprotein enhanced viral transmission and virulence. We investigated whether SARS-CoV-2 mutation rates and entropy were associated COVID-19 in Pakistan, before and after the introduction of vaccinations. We analyzed 1,705 SARS-CoV-2 genomes using the Augur phylogenetic pipeline. Substitution rates and entropy across the genome, and in the Spike glycoprotein were compared between 2020, 2021 and 2022 (as periods A, B and C). Mortality was greatest in B whilst cases were highest during C. In period A, G clades were predominant, and substitution rate was 5.25 × 10–4 per site per year. In B, Delta variants dominated, and substitution rates increased to 9.74 × 10–4. In C, Omicron variants led to substitution rates of 5.02 × 10–4. Genome-wide entropy was the highest during B particularly, at Spike E484K and K417N. During C, genome-wide mutations increased whilst entropy was reduced. Enhanced SARS-CoV-2 genome substitution rates were associated with a period when more virulent SARS-CoV-2 variants were prevalent. Reduced substitution rates and stabilization of genome entropy was subsequently evident when vaccinations were introduced. Whole genome entropy analysis can help predict virus evolution to guide public health interventions.
Accuracy of facial skeletal surfaces segmented from CT and CBCT radiographs
Authors: Ghamri Mohammed , Dritsas Konstantinos , Probst Jannis , Jäggi Maurus , Psomiadis Symeon , Schulze Ralf , Verna Carlalberta , Katsaros Christos , Halazonetis Demetrios , Gkantidis Nikolaos
Published: November 2023

The accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) facial skeletal surface models derived from radiographic volumes has not been extensively investigated yet. For this, ten human dry skulls were scanned with two Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) units, a CT unit, and a highly accurate optical surface scanner that provided the true reference models. Water-filled head shells were used for soft tissue simulation during radiographic imaging. The 3D surface models that were repeatedly segmented from the radiographic volumes through a single-threshold approach were used for reproducibility testing. Additionally, they were compared to the true reference model for trueness measurement. Comparisons were performed through 3D surface approximation techniques, using an iterative closest point algorithm. Differences between surface models were assessed through the calculation of mean absolute distances (MAD) between corresponding surfaces and through visual inspection of facial surface colour-coded distance maps. There was very high reproducibility (approximately 0.07 mm) and trueness (0.12 mm on average, with deviations extending locally to 0.5 mm), and no difference between radiographic scanners or settings. The present findings establish the validity of lower radiation CBCT imaging protocols at a similar level to the conventional CT images, when 3D surface models are required for the assessment of facial morphology.
Characterization of the TCRβ repertoire of peripheral MR1-restricted MAIT cells in psoriasis vulgaris patients
Authors: Jirouš Drulak Maja , Grgić Zvonimir , Plužarić Vera , Šola Marija , Opačak-Bernardi Teuta , Viljetić Barbara , Glavaš Kristina , Tolušić-Levak Maja , Periša Vlatka , Mihalj Martina , Štefanić Mario , Tokić Stana
Published: November 2023

Psoriasis vulgaris (PV) is an inflammatory skin disease largely driven by aberrant αβT cells. Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, which constitute the largest circulating innate-like αβT cell community in human adults, are characterized by a semi-invariant TCRVα7.2 receptor and MR1-restricted affinity toward microbial metabolites. Limited MAIT TCRα diversity is complemented by a more variable TCRβ repertoire, but its footprint in the MAIT repertoire of PV patients has never been tested. Here, we used bulk TCRSeq, MiXCR, VDJTools, and Immunarch pipelines to decipher and compare TCRβ clonotypes from flow-sorted, peripheral TCRVα7.2+MR1-5-OP-RU-tet+MAIT cells from 10 PV patients and 10 healthy, matched controls. The resulting TCRβ collections were highly private and individually unique, with small public clonotype content and high CDR3β amino acid length variability in both groups. The age-related increase in the ‘hyperexpanded’ clonotype compartment was observed in PV, but not in healthy MAIT repertoires. The TCRβ repertoires of PV patients were also marked by skewed TRBV/TRBJ pairing, and the emergence of PV-specific, public CDR3β peptide sequences closely matching the published CDR3β record from psoriatic skin. Overall, our study provides preliminary insight into the peripheral MAIT TCRβ repertoire in psoriasis and warrants further evaluation of its diagnostic and clinical significance.
Estimating functions for visual field progression in newly diagnosed exfoliation glaucoma patients in Sweden
Authors: Ayala Marcelo
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to determine whether glaucoma progression was linear or not in newly diagnosed exfoliation glaucoma patients. A total of 96 patients with newly diagnosed exfoliation glaucoma were included. These patients were required to undergo at least seven visual field tests within 3 years (± 1 month), and all were treated at the time of inclusion. The study was a non-randomized, prospective cohort study. The outcome of the study was visual field progression. Progression was assessed based on mean deviation (MD), visual field index (VFI), and “Guided Progression Analysis”. The MD and VFI values were plotted against time, and distribution and curve fit were calculated. The results showed that the general rate of progression of the cohort was − 3.84 (± 2.61) dB for the MD values and 9.66 (± 6.25)% for the VFI values over 3 years. The best-fitted curve for MD and VFI values in the 36 months period was significant for both linear and exponential curves (p ≤ 0.001; p ≤ 0.001). However, in the MD group, the F and the R2 values were higher for exponential than for linear function (linear: F = 42.60, R2 = 0.059; exponential: F = 53.26, R2 = 0.073). The opposite results were found among VFI values. The F and the R2 values were slightly better for linear than for exponential (linear: F = 37.22, R2 = 0.052; exponential: F = 35.55, R2 = 0.050). In conclusion, the study found that visual field progression between diagnosis and 18 months seemed to be exponential. However, after 18 months, the IOP reduction effects probably ameliorated progression, making the curve linear.
Effects of poling camber angle on the biomechanics of cross-country sit-skiing
Authors: Tian Yuan , Chen Xue , Liu Yujie , Sun Gang , Zhou Zhixiong , Liu Chenglin , Huo Bo
Published: November 2023

Cross-country sit-skiers use double poling (DP) technique to drive the slide. The aim of this study is to analyze how poling camber angle affect the capacity of power output and biomechanical parameters of the DP process. Twenty-four non-disabled college students (24.67 ± 1.46 years old) were recruited to perform three successive 30-s maximal effort tests with different poling camber angles of 0°, 15°, 24° and 30° using a sit-skiing ergometer. The biomechanical parameters, output power and muscle activation of the subjects were analyzed. The results showed that DP output power increased with the increase of poling camber angle at 15° (597.78 ± 150.31 J), 24° (610.94 ± 158.96 J, P = 0.011) and 30° (629.10 ± 168.78 J, P < 0.001) compared with 0° (590.65 ± 148.95 J). However, effective output power decreased with the increase of camber angle. Poling with camber angle of 24° had the shortest cycle time 1.53 ± 0.17 s, compared with other abduction angle (0°, 1.57 ± 0.19 s, 15°, 1.55 ± 0.16 s, and 30°, 1.56 ± 0.19 s). Compared with 0° (1.02 ± 0.14 m), the cycle distance significantly increased at poling camber angles of 24° (1.07 ± 0.12 m, P = 0.029) and 30° (1.11 ± 0.13 m, P < 0.001). With the increase of poling camber angle, the shoulder and elbow joint range of motions and joint moments were significantly increased. This study found that poling with shoulder abducted increased the output power but decreased the efficiency. By analyzing the poling angle and poling force, we find that the optimal poling camber angle may depend on the terrain or the skiing speed. These results may guide the competition techniques and tactics in the matches, and may further influence the strength-training programs of cross-country sit-skiing athletes.
Identification and validation of candidate clinical signatures of apolipoprotein L isoforms in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiang-Kun , Guo Yu-Xiang , Wang Miao , Zhang Xu-Dong , Liu Zhong-Yuan , Wang Mao-Sen , Luo Kai , Huang Shuai , Li Ren-Feng
Published: November 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal malignancy worldwide with an increasing number of new cases each year. Apolipoprotein (APOL) isoforms have been explored for their associations with HCC.The GSE14520 cohort was used for training data; The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used for validated data. Diagnostic, prognostic significance and mechanisms were explored using these cohorts. Risk score models and nomograms were constructed using prognosis-related isoforms and clinical factors for survival prediction. Oncomine and HCCDB databases were further used for validation of diagnostic, prognostic significance. APOL1, 3, and 6 were differentially expressed in two cohorts (all P ≤ 0.05). APOL1 and APOL6 had diagnostic capacity whereas APOL3 and APOL6 had prognostic capacity in two cohorts (areas under curves [AUCs] > 0.7, P ≤ 0.05). Mechanism studies demonstrated that APOL3 and APOL6 might be involved in humoral chemokine signaling pathways (all P ≤ 0.05). Risk score models and nomograms were constructed and validated for survival prediction of HCC. Moreover, diagnostic values of APOL1 and weak APOL6 were validated in Oncomine database (AUC > 0.700, 0.694); prognostic values of APOL3 and APOL6 were validated in HCCDB database (all P < 0.05). Differentially expressed APOL1 and APOL6 might be diagnostic biomarkers; APOL3 and APOL6 might be prognostic biomarkers of RFS and OS for HCC via chemokine signaling pathways.
An optimization framework to guide the choice of thresholds for risk-based cancer screening
Authors: Brentnall Adam R. , Atakpa Emma C. , Hill Harry , Santeramo Ruggiero , Damiani Celeste , Cuzick Jack , Montana Giovanni , Duffy Stephen W.
Published: November 2023

It is uncommon for risk groups defined by statistical or artificial intelligence (AI) models to be chosen by jointly considering model performance and potential interventions available. We develop a framework to rapidly guide choice of risk groups in this manner, and apply it to guide breast cancer screening intervals using an AI model. Linear programming is used to define risk groups that minimize expected advanced cancer incidence subject to resource constraints. In the application risk stratification performance is estimated from a case–control study (2044 cases, 1:1 matching), and other parameters are taken from screening trials and the screening programme in England. Under the model, re-screening in 1 year for the highest 4% AI model risk, in 3 years for the middle 64%, and in 4 years for 32% of the population at lowest risk, was expected to reduce the number of advanced cancers diagnosed by approximately 18 advanced cancers per 1000 diagnosed with triennial screening, for the same average number of screens in the population as triennial screening for all. Sensitivity analyses found the choice of thresholds was robust to model parameters, but the estimated reduction in advanced cancers was not precise and requires further evaluation. Our framework helps define thresholds with the greatest chance of success for reducing the population health burden of cancer when used in risk-adapted screening, which should be further evaluated such as in health-economic modelling based on computer simulation models, and real-world evaluations.
High-pressure induced Weyl semimetal phase in 2D Tellurium
Authors: Niu Chang , Zhang Zhuocheng , Graf David , Lee Seungjun , Wang Mingyi , Wu Wenzhuo , Low Tony , Ye Peide D.
Published: November 2023

Relativistic Weyl fermion quasiparticles in Weyl semimetal bring the electron’s chirality degree of freedom into the electrical transport and give rise to exotic phenomena. A topological phase transition from a topological trivial phase to a topological non-trivial phase offers a route to control electronic devices through its topological properties. Here, we report the Weyl semimetal phase in hydrothermally grown two-dimensional Tellurium (2D Te) induced by high hydrostatic pressure (up to 2.47 GPa). The unique chiral crystal structure gives rise to chiral fermions with different topological chiral charges ($${{C}}=-{{1}},+{{1}},{{and}}-{{2}}$$
C
=
−
1
,
+
1
,
a
n
d
−
2
). The highly tunable chemical potential in 2D Te provides comprehensive information for understanding the pressure-dependent electron band structure. The pressure-induced insulator-to-metal transition, two-carrier transport, and the non-trivial π Berry phase shift in quantum oscillations are observed in the 2D Te Weyl semimetal phase. Our work demonstrates the pressure-induced bandgap closing in the inversion asymmetric narrow bandgap semiconductor 2D Te.
Conservation policies and management in the Ukrainian Emerald Network have maintained reforestation rate despite the war
Authors: Shumilo Leonid , Skakun Sergii , Gore Meredith L. , Shelestov Andrii , Kussul Nataliia , Hurtt George , Karabchuk Dmytro , Yarotskiy Volodymyr
Published: November 2023

The Russian-Ukrainian War, ongoing since 2014, impacts an area containing Emerald Network environmental-protection sites created through the implementation of the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats. Here we explore the impact of this conflict on institutional links supporting environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. Using satellite data, we analyzed tree cover changes in the Luhansk region’s Emerald Network protected areas from 1996 to 2020. The results reveal that the implementation of Bern Convention conservation policies led to a shift from deforestation (−4% each) to reforestation (+8% and +10%) on both sides of the Emerald Network divided by the demarcation line in 2014. It also shows that despite the war, territories under Ukraine control after 2014 continued reforestation (+9%), while sites under Russian control experienced dramatic forest loss (−25%). These findings emphasize the significant consequences of warfare-induced separation of local institutions on conservation areas and underscore the positive impact of the Emerald Network establishment, both before and after the conflict’s onset.
Ecosystems in China have become more sensitive to changes in water demand since 2001
Authors: Hu Ying , Wei Fangli , Fu Bojie , Zhang Wenmin , Sun Chuanlian
Published: November 2023

Changes in heat and moisture significantly co-alter ecosystem functioning. However, knowledge on dynamics of ecosystem responses to climate change is limited. Here, we quantify long-term ecosystem sensitivity based on weighted ratios of vegetation productivity variability and multiple climate variables from satellite observations, greater values of which indicate more yields per hydrothermal condition change. Our results show ecosystem sensitivity exhibits large spatial variability and increases with the aridity index. A positive temporal trend of ecosystem sensitivity is found in 61.28% of the study area from 2001 to 2021, which is largely attributed to declining vapor pressure deficit and constrained by solar radiation. Moreover, carbon dioxide plays a dual role; which in moderation promotes fertilization effects, whereas in excess may suppress vegetation growth by triggering droughts. Our findings highlight moisture stress between land and atmosphere is one of the key prerequisites for ecosystem stability, offsetting part of the negative effects of heat.
On the mechanism of benzimidazole synthesis via copper-catalysed intramolecular N-arylation
Authors: Jin Xiaodong , Lin Yongjie , Davies Robert P.
Published: November 2023

A combination of solid-state structural studies and kinetic profiling have been used to study the copper(i)-catalysed intramolecular Ullmann N-arylation reaction leading to new mechanistic insights and an improved protocol for benzimidazole synthesis.
Electrochemically decoupled reduction of CO2 to formate over a dispersed heterogeneous bismuth catalyst enabled via redox mediators
Authors: Potter Mark , Smith Daniel E. , Armstrong Craig G. , Toghill Kathryn E.
Published: November 2023

Electrochemical CO2 reduction is a topic of major interest in contemporary research as an approach to use renewably-derived electricity to synthesise useful hydrocarbons from waste CO2.
High-pressure electrochemistry: a new frontier in decarbonization
Authors: Kani Nishithan C. , Olusegun Samuel , Chauhan Rohit , Gauthier Joseph A. , Singh Meenesh R.
Published: November 2023

Higher pressures can positively impact electrochemical activity, selectivity, stability, and efficiency.
Diallyl trisulfide inhibits 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone-induced lung cancer via modulating gut microbiota and the PPARγ/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Qu Zhuo , Tian Jiahui , Sun Jiachen , Shi Ying , Yu Jianqiang , Zhang Wannian , Zhuang Chunlin
Published: November 2023

DATS ameliorated NNK-induced lung tumorigenesis by the modulation of gut microbiota and regulation of the PPARγ/NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby reducing the accumulation of inflammatory factors.
(R,S)-Equol 7-β-D-glucuronide, but not other circulating isoflavone metabolites, modulates migration and tubulogenesis in human aortic endothelial cells targeting the VEGF pathway
Authors: Giménez-Bastida Juan Antonio , Ávila-Gálvez María Ángeles , Martínez-López Alicia , García-Moreno Diana , Espín Juan Carlos , González-Sarrías Antonio
Published: November 2023

Dietary isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, and their derived microbial metabolites, including equol and equol 7-β-d-glucuronide, target the VEGFR2 pathway and modulate processes related to angiogenesis.
Unusual adsorption-induced phase transitions in a pillared-layered copper ethylenediphosphonate with ultrasmall channels
Authors: Cavallo Margherita , Signorile Matteo , Köferstein Roberto , Crocellà Valentina , Taddei Marco
Published: November 2023

The peculiar adsorption-induced phase transitions in an ultramicroporous copper phosphonate framework were investigated with a combination of experimental and computational methods.
An ancillary-ligand strategy for the improvement of electrochemical sensing towards S-containing amines with ultralow detection limits
Authors: Ma Teng , Zhao Yizhen , Liu Xiao , He Xingyue , Lei Bin , Qiu Xiao-Hang , Ma Jian-Gong , Cheng Peng
Published: November 2023

A Zn-MOF electrochemical sensor was synthesized using an “ancillary-ligand strategy”. With the introduction of redox-active ancillary ligand azpy and the host–guest interactions, the sensor exhibits an ultralow detection limit for l-methionine.
Synthesis and migrastatic activity of cytochalasin analogues lacking a macrocyclic moiety
Authors: Formánek Bedřich , Dupommier Dorian , Volfová Tereza , Rimpelová Silvie , Škarková Aneta , Herciková Jana , Rösel Daniel , Brábek Jan , Perlíková Pavla
Published: November 2023

Macrocyclic moiety is not essential for the biological activity of cytochalasan analogues.
The RNA cargo of Myxococcus outer membrane vesicles
Authors: Swain Martin T. , Radford Emily J. , Akanyeti Allison S. , Hallwood James H. , Whitworth David E.
Published: November 2023

Vesicles secreted by predatory myxobacteria contain RNA transcripts. Many transcripts seem to be packaged passively, but others seem to be specifically loaded onto vesicles.
Theoretical investigation of synergistically boosting the anchoring and electrochemical performance of lithiophilic/sulfiphilic transition metal carbides for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Mingyang , Mao Jianjun , Pang Yudong , Zhang Xilin , Yang Zongxian , Lu Zhansheng , Yang Shuting
Published: November 2023

Synergistically boosting the anchoring and electrochemical performance of lithiophilic/sulfiphilic transition metal carbide (001) surfaces.
Synthesis of the aminocyclopentenediol fragment of queuosine by way of the stereoselective addition of an organometallic reagent to a N-t-butanesulfinyl glycosylamine
Authors: Heis Floriane , Gallienne Estelle , Martin Olivier R.
Published: November 2023

A concise, stereocontrolled synthesis of the aminocyclopentenediol component of queuosine from l-ribose by way of a N-t-butanesulfinyl glycosylamine is reported.
Use of copper-functionalized cotton waste in combined chemical and biological processes for production of valuable chemical compounds
Authors: Binczarski Michal J. , Zuberek Justyna Z. , Samadi Payam , Cieslak Malgorzata , Kaminska Irena , Berlowska Joanna , Pawlaczyk Aleksandra , Szynkowska-Jozwik Malgorzata I. , Witonska Izabela A.
Published: November 2023

Scheme of processing with Cu functionalized cotton waste.
Adsorptive removal of aflatoxin B1 from water and edible oil by dopamine-grafted biomass chitosan–iron–cobalt spinel oxide nanocomposite: mechanism, kinetics, equilibrium, thermodynamics, and oil quality
Authors: Abasi N. , Faraji A. R. , Davood A.
Published: November 2023

Currently, the use of magnetic physical adsorbents for detoxification is widely applied in the food industry; however, the fabrication of high-efficiency low-cost absorbents without damaging the nutritional quality of food is a major challenge.
Biomolecular infrared spectroscopy: making time for dynamics
Authors: Hunt Neil T.
Published: November 2023

A perspective discussing the ways in which infrared spectroscopy can be used to study biomolecular processes over a wide range of timescales.
Eco-design of the remembrance poppy: a life cycle assessment study
Authors: Paulillo Andrea , Pucciarelli Martina , Prior Phil , Lettieri Paola
Published: November 2023

Shifting from plastic to a paper-based design significantly reduces the environmental impacts of the UK Remembrance Poppy.
Raman spectra and defect chemical characteristics of Sr(Ti,Fe)O3−y solid solution of bulk pellets vs. thin films
Authors: Sediva Eva , Rupp Jennifer L. M.
Published: November 2023

We measure and interpret Raman spectra of Sr(Ti,Fe)O3−y solid solutions from a defect chemical perspective. We compare single- and polycrystalline thin films as well as bulk pellets as a function of iron content.
Skin-inspired gradient ionogels induced by electric field for ultrasensitive and ultrafast-responsive multifunctional ionotronics
Authors: Xu Min , Shen Xuchao , Li Shuaijie , Zhu Hongnan , Cheng Yan , Lv Hongying , Wang Zhuoer , Lou Cunguang , Song Hongzan
Published: November 2023

Skin-inspired PIL ionogels with gradient microstructures were prepared by a one-step electric-field assisted photo-polymerization method. The ionotronic sensors show high sensitivity, fast response time, and can detect various motions.
Oxysalt based synergistic dual interfacial engineering for high performance p–i–n structured perovskite solar cells
Authors: Patil Pramila , Kwon Sung-Nam , Sangale Sushil S. , Mann Dilpreet Singh , Na Seok-In
Published: November 2023

The synergistic effect of the double-sided passivation strategy using oxysalts led to improved performance of p–i–n perovskite solar cells.
Integration of phase change materials with multi-responsive halloysite nanotubes for efficient Pickering emulsification of high-viscosity oil
Authors: Dong Limei , Zhang Dan , Li Junfeng , Guo Shichong , Xue Ying , Wang Zhining , Li Yiming
Published: November 2023

The low fluidity of high-viscosity oil usually hinders its emulsification. Facing this dilemma, a multiresponsive composite PCM with both in situ heating characteristics and Pickering emulsification properties was proposed.
Correction: A polyhexamethylene biguanide-assembly assisted strategy of dentin bonding greatly promotes bonding effects and caries treatment
Authors: Shu Chang , Chen Yadong , Zhang Zhenzhen , Lei Yuqing , Xu Jiajia , Lao Weiwei , Xi Qingping , Sun Qiang , Li Xiaojun , Liao Hongbing , Luo Qiaojie , Li Xiaodong
Published: November 2023

Correction for ‘A polyhexamethylene biguanide-assembly assisted strategy of dentin bonding greatly promotes bonding effects and caries treatment’ by Chang Shu et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2023, 11, 10908–10922, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TB02083E.
Sunlight light-driven degradation of anthracene and naphthalene on robust Cu2+doped ZnO nanoparticles from simulated rainwater: optimization factors, kinetics, and reusability
Authors: Meenu  , Rani Manviri , Shanker Uma
Published: November 2023

This research investigated the detection and removal of priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from metropolitan rainwater runoff through photocatalytic degradation.
Identification of oxygen sites in β-ketoenamine-linked covalent organic frameworks for highly efficient uranium adsorption through experimental and theoretical studies
Authors: Wen Tao , Ma Xinjie , Huo Yingzhong , Guo Ruoxuan , Zhang Sai , Han Yanan , Liu Yang , Ai Yuejie , Wang Xiangke
Published: November 2023

Anthropogenic activities involving unintended uranium leakage from nuclear accidents, large-scale uranium mining, or nuclear weapon production have caused health and environmental concerns.
Dysphagia Education and Diet Modification: Preparing Clinicians to Make Patient-Focused Decisions Through Experiential Learning
Authors: Sherrill Martha H. , Lenell Charles
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

This study examined the use of an experiential learning activity to familiarize students with the preparation and consumption of a modified diet (puree solids and mildly thick liquids) for 24 hr from a patient's perspective. We hypothesized that students would demonstrate high levels of noncompliance despite their understanding of the purpose and use of modified diets and the short duration of the activity.

Method:

This is a quasi-experimental study of multiple cohorts of students examining their overall compliance with a modified diet, nutrition/hydration intake patterns, and personal responses to the experience. Statistical analysis of nutritional intake patterns was completed across compliant/noncompliant groups, and thematic content analysis was completed to identify frequently occurring themes in narrative personal reflections.

Results:

Compliant participants consumed greater amounts of sugar and calories. Themes of empathy, struggles with preparation of the diet, and aversion to taste were common examples of personal responses to the experience.

Conclusions:

Results demonstrate the efficacy of experiential learning in dysphagia education and align with the current body of literature of dysphagia management through modified diets.
A study on the biocompatibility of ramie fibre for medical dressing application
Authors: Wei Changsheng , Xiong Shibing , Zhang Siqi , Cui Yifan , Wang Simeng , Lu Xugang , Chen Jun , Zhang Mei , Yang Bangcheng
Published: November 2023

In order to explore the potential application of Ramie fibre (RF) in medical dressing, the absorbency ratio of ramie fibre cloth, medical gauze and natural cotton fibre cloth was tested, and the factors affecting the absorbency ratio of materials were analysed. Meanwhile, the hemocompatibility of the three fibre materials were also studied. The results showed that the RF cloth had good moisture absorption and hemocompatibility. Therefore, RF is a potential material for medical dressing.
An inverse halftoning method based on supervised deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Li Mei , Liu Qi
Published: November 2023

Inverse halftoning is a technology that converts a binary image into a continuous tone image. Due to the wide application of inverse halftoning, many scholars have proposed several deep convolutional neural networks (DCNN) to optimize their performance. According to the observation, there is still room for improvement in content generation and detail recovery of the inverse halftone images generated by using the existing methods. Therefore, an inverse halftoning method based on supervised DCNN is proposed in this paper. The method consists of two parts: the multi‐level feature extraction model uses the down‐sampling to extract the features from the halftone image and remove the halftone noise dots on flat areas, which is implemented by four convolutional layers; the image reconstruction model uses up‐sampling to reconstruct image information, which is realized by four convolutional layers and two dense residual blocks. At the same time, in order to further recover the details, the down‐sampling feature maps and up‐sampling feature maps of the same size are concatenated by addition layers. Experimental results show that compared with other methods, the inverse halftone images obtained by the proposed network have better results in both subjective and objective evaluations.
Modeling and simulation of charging characteristics of electric vehicle group under the mode of autonomous driving‐shared travel
Authors: Zhu Junliang , Wu Zhigang , Chen Chongchen , Su Entong
Published: November 2023

Compared with the traditional travel mode, the increasingly mature autonomous driving and shared travel technologies can lead to a higher driving utilization rate and lower car parc; however, at the same time, they will bring unknown impacts to the trans‐energy system. As a new generation of vehicles, the behavior of electric vehicles will also be affected. This paper describes and models the behavior of electric vehicle group in the autonomous driving‐shared travel mode in detail, and uses the multi‐agent technology to establish a large‐scale electric vehicle group simulation model. This model fully considers the constraints of traffic network and charging station and the influence of fuel vehicles, which can simulate the actual scene well and be used to study the charging behavior of electric vehicle group. Finally, the simulation model is used to obtain the charging load curve of the electric vehicle group under the new travel mode and analyze the influence of travel upgrade and network topology on charging load.
Exploring turn signal usage patterns in lane changes: A Bayesian hierarchical modelling analysis of realistic driving data
Authors: Jokhio Sarang , Olleja Pierluigi , Bärgman Jonas , Yan Fei , Baumann Martin
Published: November 2023

Using turn signals to convey a driver's intention to change lanes provides a direct and unambiguous way of communicating with nearby drivers. Nonetheless, past research has indicated that drivers may not always use their turn signals before starting a lane change. In this study, realistic driving data are analyzed to investigate turn signal usage during lane changes on highways in and around Gothenburg, Sweden. Turn signal usage is examined and factors that influence it are identified by employing Bayesian hierarchical modelling. The study found that drivers used their turn signal before changing lanes in 60% of cases, after starting the lane change in 33% of cases, and did not use it at all in 7% of cases. The Bayesian hierarchical modelling results indicate that various factors, such as the speed and direction of lane changes and the presence of surrounding vehicles, influence the usage of turn signals. The study concludes that understanding the factors affecting turn signal usage is crucial for improving traffic safety in current and future mixed traffic with autonomous vehicles. The study discusses the implications of findings concerning increasing turn signal compliance through general policy‐making, improving existing in‐vehicle technologies and including turn signal usage in Pay‐As‐You‐Drive insurances.
Reconfigurable inductorless negative‐refractive‐index transmission‐line metamaterial phase shifter for 5G antenna beam‐steering applications
Authors: Bilal Asif , Quddious Abdul , Kanno Atsushi , Kawanishi Tetsuya , Iezekiel Stavros , Antoniades Marco A.
Published: November 2023

A reconfigurable inductorless negative‐refractive‐index transmission‐line (NRI‐TL) metamaterial phase shifter for sub‐6 GHz 5G antenna applications is proposed. The design consists of a microstrip transmission line loaded both in series and in parallel with varactor diodes to provide continuous tuning of the phase of the transmitted signal by varying the bias voltage applied to the varactors, without the need for variable inductor components. The total measured differential phase shift is 190° at 3.2 GHz, with a measured insertion loss of 1.5–2.7 dB in the frequency range of 3.2–3.6 GHz, when the biasing voltage of the varactors is varied between 0 and 7 V. The total size of the microstrip NRI‐TL phase shifter is 19.4 mm × 24 mm. The proposed reconfigurable phase shifter has been incorporated into the feeding network of a two‐element antenna array to demonstrate its use in beam‐steering applications. The measured results for the reconfigurable array show good impedance matching between 3 and 3.35 GHz for all biasing values, allowing continuous beam steering over a scanning range of 60°.