bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity evidence regarding the use of DigCompEdu as a self-reflection tool: The case of Hungarian teacher educators
Authors: Horváth László , M. Pintér Tibor , Misley Helga , Dringó-Horváth Ida
Published: July 2024

Digital competence is crucial for technology integration in education, with teacher educators playing a vital role in preparing student teachers for digitalized environments. In our conceptualization of teachers’ digital competence (TDC), we emphasize its embeddedness in a professional context. The Digital Competence for Educators (DigCompEdu) framework aligns with this understanding, yet research focusing on teacher educators is limited. To address this gap, we followed a quantitative research strategy to explore different sources of validity evidence for the DigCompEdu in a small, non-representative Hungarian teacher-educator sample (N = 183) via an online questionnaire. Our study, regarding the DigCompEdu as a measure of TDC, aims to (1) establish validity evidence based on internal structure concerns via Partial Least Squares structural equation modelling to evaluate the validity and reliability of the tool, (2) compare TDC self-categorization with test results to provide validity evidence based on the consequences of testing, and (3) explore validity evidence based on relationships of TDC with other variables such as age, technological, and pedagogical competence. Our findings reveal a significant mediating effect of professional engagement on teacher educators’ ability to support student teachers’ digital competence development. Despite the sample’s limitation, this study contributes to refining the DigCompEdu framework and highlights the importance of professional engagement in fostering digital competence among teacher educators.
Biomaterial Fg/P(LLA-CL) regulates macrophage polarization and recruitment of mesenchymal stem cells after endometrial injury
Authors: Song Sirui , Wang Anfeng , Wu Siyu , Li Huaifang , He Hongbing
Published: July 2024

The process of endometrial repair after injury involves the synergistic action of various cells including immune cells and stem cells. In this study, after combing Fibrinogen(Fg) with poly(L-lacticacid)-co-poly(ε-caprolactone)(P(LLA-CL)) by electrospinning, we placed Fg/P(LLA-CL) into the uterine cavity of endometrium-injured rats, and bioinformatic analysis revealed that Fg/P(LLA-CL) may affect inflammatory response and stem cell biological behavior. Therefore, we verified that Fg/P(LLA-CL) could inhibit the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages from switching to the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype in vitro. Moreover, in the rat model of endometrial injury, Fg/P(LLA-CL) effectively promoted the polarization of macrophages towards the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype and enhanced the presence of mesenchymal stem cells at the injury site. Overall, Fg/P(LLA-CL) exhibits significant influence on macrophage polarization and stem cell behavior in endometrial injury, justifying further exploration for potential therapeutic applications in endometrial and other tissue injuries.

Graphical Abstract
Biodegradable composites with antibiotics and growth factors for dual release kinetics
Authors: Seidenstuecker Michael , Hess Julian , Baghnavi Anna , Schmal Hagen , Voigt Diana , Mayr Hermann O.
Published: July 2024

Bone infections are still a major problem in surgery. To avoid severe side effects of systemically administered antibiotics, local antibiotic therapy is increasingly being considered. Using a pressure-based method developed in our group, microporous β-TCP ceramics, which had previously been characterized, were loaded with 2% w/v alginate containing 50 mg/mL clindamycin and 10 µg/mL rhBMP-2. Release experiments were then carried out over 28 days with changes of liquid at defined times (1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 14, 21 and 28d). The released concentrations of clindamycin were determined by HPLC and those of rhBMP-2 by ELISA. Continuous release (anomalous transport) of clindamycin and uniform release (Fick’s diffusion) of BMP-2 were determined. The composites were biocompatible (live/dead, WST-I and LDH) and the released concentrations were all antimicrobially active against Staph. aureus. The results were very promising and clindamycin was detected in concentrations above the MIC as well as a constant rhBMP-2 release over the entire study period. Biocompatibility was also not impaired by either the antibiotic or the BMP-2. This promising approach can therefore be seen as an alternative to the common treatment with PMMA chains containing gentamycin, as the new composite is completely biodegradable and no second operation is necessary for removal or replacement.

Graphical Abstract
Transdermal delivery of botulinum toxin-A through phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol nanoliposomes for treatment of post-acne scarring
Authors: Chen Lannan , Cui Lei , Ran Jiabing , Liu Zhengrui , Zhu Xiongbin
Published: July 2024

As an acne sequela, post-acne scarring (PSA) has huge negative impact on sufferers’ quality of life because of aesthetical embarrassment. Transdermal delivery of botulinum toxin-A (BTXA) is a promising strategy for PAS treatment, but currently reported approaches are far from satisfactory. In this work, phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol (PC/Chol) nanoliposomes were utilized for encapsulation and transdermal delivery of BTXA. The composition, structure, morphology, size, size distribution, etc. of as-prepared BTXA@liposome nanoparticles were investigated in detail. Simulated transdermal delivery assay indicated that the diffusion depth of the BXTA@liposome nanoparticles was nearly 8 times that of pure BTXA and reached 380 μm. 12 facial PSA patients were recruited to evaluate the curative effect of the BTXA@liposome nanoparticles on PSA. Through ECCA (échelle d’évaluation clinique des cicatrices d’acné) scoring and self-evaluation of patients, the resultant data indicated that compared to hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel treatment the BTXA@liposome/HA hydrogel treatment could better relieve PSA to some extent but didn’t show significant advantage. Further work is needed to verify the feasibility and curative effect of this method in PSA treatment in the future.

Graphical Abstract
Applying a Socio-Ecological Model to Understanding the Needs of Children and Young People Bereaved by Intimate Partner Homicide across their Life Course
Authors: Kurdi Zain , Devaney John , Houghton Claire , Eastwood Oliver , Frederick John , Joy Kathryn , Chavez Katitza Marinkovic , Sakthiakumaran Ashwini , Alisic Eva
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To develop a socio-ecological understanding of the immediate and long-term effects on, and the needs of, children and young people (CYP) in the UK and Ireland bereaved by parental intimate partner homicide (IPH).

Method

The study draws on in-depth interviews from three different informants: those with lived experience (LE) (10); caregivers (12); and professionals (10). In addition to the 10 interviews with those bereaved by maternal IPH, experiences discussed include a further 23 cases of bereavement due to IPH during childhood (when aged under 18). We used thematic analysis to code and extracted themes into the relevant five dimensions of the socio-ecological model.

Results

The circumstances in which the homicide/suicide took place, were crucial in shaping children’s life trajectory. We identified circumstantial predictors in branching of trajectories: witnessing the murder; relatedness to perpetrator; and assumptions on biological relatedness. We found the need for life-long access to therapeutic care to support CYP essential during various developmental stages and life transitions. We recognized that both kinship and foster carers, required support in dealing with the complexity of grieving children. For kinship care, carers require help in managing their own grief, in addition to financial support to account for the new caring responsibilities. We also observed that children’s voice was rarely elicited, with no opportunities to exercise their agency.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of contextual circumstances for tailored support and the identification of appropriate carers and supporting them holistically. Finally, we highlight the importance of child centered policies and dedicated resources to support relevant services dealing with CYP bereaved by parental IPH.
Perspectives on Spare Embryos amongst IVF users: An Exploratory Study from a Selected District of the Southern Indian State of Karnataka
Authors: Ansari Salik , Vaswani Ravi
Published: July 2024

Perspectives of IVF users on their spare embryos is a less explored subject in the Indian context despite the country’s population and abundance of IVF clinics. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews in a selected district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Seven individuals were recruited independently of any assistance from an IVF clinic. The interviews explored participants’ knowledge and perception of the spare embryos using a set of guiding questions exploring the theme of the informed consent process, views on research, preferences for embryo donation, the role of family and the dynamics of decision-making, amongst other things. The interviews were qualitatively analysed using Corbin and Strauss’s grounded theory approach. Our findings reveal that the participants do not learn about the prospects of spare embryos from the very start of their IVF journeys, and they may not be informed about the various options available to decide the fate of the spare embryos. Irrespective of their views on research and moral perceptions of embryos, participants expressed a sense of responsibility and ownership towards their embryos and a general reluctance to donate them. Our findings have implications for guiding future inquiries on this subject, which can better the informed consent process and unravel the role of ownership in the ethics of spare embryos in the Indian context.
A social network approach to community energy initiative participation
Authors: Nientimp Dennis , Goedkoop Fleur , Flache Andreas , Dijkstra Jacob
Published: July 2024

This perspective paper argues how a social network approach can contribute to creating a more comprehensive picture of how individual and community characteristics influence participation in community energy initiatives (CEIs). We argue how social network theory and methods for social network analysis can be utilized to better understand participation. Further, we show how this can potentially aid the implementation of interventions aimed at attracting more participants with more diverse socio-demographic backgrounds. Importantly, we argue that the structure of community social networks connecting (potential) participants could importantly influence whether and how individual and community properties affect CEI participation. Our aim is conveying the social network approach to the field of community energy researchers and stakeholders who might not be familiar with it. We discuss empirical evidence on the effect of network characteristics on CEI participation and the connection between research on CEIs and adjacent fields as a foundation for our claims. We also illustrate how a social network approach might help to overcome biased participation and low participation numbers, by providing social scientists with a tool to give empirically grounded advice to CEIs. We conclude by looking at avenues for future research and discuss how the context of CEIs might yield new theoretical insights and hypotheses.
The Road Not Taken: Dante’s First Eclogue and Virgil’s Career
Authors: Pugh Syrithe
Published: July 2024

Near the end of his career, Dante wrote two eclogues, instigating a literary fashion which was to outlast the Renaissance. These poems—Dante's only known compositions in Latin verse—were prompted by a verse epistle from Giovanni ‘del Virgilio’, in which the humanist scholar goaded Dante to compose a martial epic in Latin celebrating contemporary Italian military victories, which would prove him a worthy successor to the author of the Aeneid. Dante’s response is an elaborate bucolic recusatio, which engages in a rich and intricate intertextual dialogue both with Virgil and with his correspondent. Through a pattern of allusions emphasizing the theme of land-confiscation and dispossession in Virgil’s Bucolica and his denunciation of the avarice and violence of contemporary Rome in the Georgics, Dante makes the case that his own career has fulfilled the noble aspirations which Virgil himself compromised, when he abandoned the idea of a cosmological epic, entertained in the second Georgic and chose instead to glorify war and the emperor in the Aeneid.
Real-time detection of aging status of methylammonium lead iodide perovskite thin films by using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy
Authors: Xu Jinzhuo , Wu Yinghui , Fan Shuting , Liu Xudong , Yin Zhen , Yang Youpeng , Wang Renheng , Qian Zhengfang , Sun Yiwen
Published: July 2024

The inadequate stability of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites remains a significant barrier to their widespread commercial application in optoelectronic devices. Aging phenomena profoundly affect the optoelectronic performance of perovskite-based devices. In addition to enhancing perovskite stability, the real-time detection of aging status, aimed at monitoring the aging progression, holds paramount importance for both fundamental research and the commercialization of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites. In this study, the aging status of perovskite was real-time investigated by using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. Our analysis consistently revealed a gradual decline in the intensity of the absorption peak at 0.968 THz with increasing perovskite aging. Furthermore, a systematic discussion was conducted on the variations in intensity and position of the terahertz absorption peaks as the perovskite aged. These findings facilitate the real-time assessment of perovskite aging, providing a promising method to expedite the commercialization of perovskite-based optoelectronic devices.

Graphical Abstract
The Role of Topology and Capacity in Some Bounds for Principal Frequencies
Authors: Bozzola Francesco , Brasco Lorenzo
Published: July 2024

We prove a lower bound on the sharp Poincaré–Sobolev embedding constants for general open sets, in terms of their inradius. We consider the following two situations: planar sets with given topology; open sets in any dimension, under the restriction that points are not removable sets. In the first case, we get an estimate which optimally depends on the topology of the sets, thus generalizing a result by Croke, Osserman and Taylor, originally devised for the first eigenvalue of the Dirichlet–Laplacian. We also consider some limit situations, like the sharp Moser–Trudinger constant and the Cheeger constant. As a byproduct of our discussion, we also obtain a Buser-type inequality for open subsets of the plane, with given topology. An interesting problem on the sharp constant for this inequality is presented.
The Role of Social Support in the Transition from Lower- to Upper-Secondary School in Slovenia: Anxiety in Focus
Authors: Kozina Ana , Košir Katja , Pivec Tina
Published: July 2024

The complexities of individual (developmental changes) and contextual (change of school) factors interact during a school level transition period. The current study focuses on one aspect of possible difficulties, namely anxiety, and one potential support mechanism, specifically social support from family and peers, and their interplay during the school year when transitioning to a higher level of education. The study monitors anxiety levels of Slovene students (N = 115, 69.6% females) and the role of their social support through their transition using a longitudinal design with four time points—at the beginning of the school year, at the middle of the school year, at the end of the school year, and at the beginning of the new school year after the transition—in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings from an unconditional growth model show a significant difference in anxiety at the initial measurement, while the change in time is insignificant. The findings show that peer support is a significant predictor of anxiety at all four time points and that family support is a significant predictor of anxiety at three of the four time points (not significant at the end of school year). Students who report a higher sense of peer and family support report less anxiety. As identified in the study, social support is an important protective factor for higher anxiety levels; therefore, it is important to provide mechanisms of social support during a transition and throughout the pre- and post-transition school years.
Lucky strike: testing the utility of manganese dioxide powder in Neandertal percussive fire making
Authors: Sorensen Andrew C.
Published: July 2024

Late Middle Palaeolithic Neandertals in France are known to have engaged in the collection and grinding of black minerals rich in manganese dioxide (MnO2), generally presumed for symbolic use as powdered pigments. However, lab-based experiments conducted by Heyes and colleagues (Sci Rep 6: 22159, 2016) have shown that the addition of powdered MnO2 to wood turnings both reduces the temperature required for combustion by ca. 80–180 °C and significantly increases the rate of combustion. This special pyrotechnic property of powdered MnO2 may have been observed and leveraged by Neandertals to aid in fire making—a technology known to Neandertals in this region by at least 50,000 years ago. To test this idea, a series of actualistic fire-making experiments were performed to determine the practical applicability of MnO2 as a tinder-enhancing additive. The flint-and-pyrite percussive fire-making method was employed to produce sparks that were directed onto eight different types of tinder common to temperate Northwest Europe to determine if and to what degree the addition of MnO2 powder improved their ability to capture sparks that then propagate into glowing embers. The results show that MnO2 does indeed considerably improve the ignition efficiency of tinder material over untreated tinder, both in terms of the point of first ignition and the total number of ignitions achieved. It was observed, however, that the incidental addition of pyrite dust onto a tinder over the course of an experiment also appeared to improve its ability to capture sparks. Supplemental experiments using tinder pre-mixed with powdered pyrite confirmed this hypothesis, suggesting pyrite powder similarly expedites fire production. While this finding may raise questions regarding the need for collecting MnO2 for this purpose, its potential utility may lie in (1) its relative softness compared to pyrite, making it much easier to grind or scrape into powder, and (2) the greater potential for MnO2-bearing deposits to yield larger quantities of usable raw material compared to pyrite-bearing outcrops, making it relatively more abundant in some areas. Thus, when available, it is clear that adding MnO2 to tinder would have noticeably reduced the time and energy required to produce fire, making it a potentially novel Neandertal innovation complementary to the fire-making process.
Improvement in Survival Rates and Quality of Life Among Patients Surgically Treated for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity
Authors: Tirelli Giancarlo , Zanelli Enrico , Polesel Jerry , Gardenal Nicoletta , Ramella Vittorio , Mineo Chiara , Zucchini Simone , Piovesana Marco , Grill Vittorio , Giudici Fabiola , Boscolo Nata Francesca , Marcuzzo Alberto , Boscolo-Rizzo Paolo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The study aimed to assess if outcomes for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients have improved, and if so, whether these improvements correlate with changes in diagnostic and therapeutic methods over time.

Methods

Retrospective study including patients surgically treated for OSCC between 2002 and 2020.

Results

Among the 193 consecutive patients with primary OSCC who met the inclusion criteria (median age 66; 60.4% male), 80 (41.4%) were treated between 2002 and 2011, and 113 (58.6%) between 2011 and 2020. Multivariate analysis showed a significant improvement in overall survival rates from 2012 to 2020, compared with the period from 2002 to 2011 (HR for death, 0.33; 95% CI 0.17–0.67). Similar observations have emerged in progression-free and disease-specific survival. When stratified by stage, the improvement was found to be significant only for advanced stages. The use of NBI during both preoperative and operative setting as well as margin mapping significantly increased over the time. Both patients with early and advanced-stage OSCC treated between 2012 and 2020 exhibited improved pain scores.

Conclusions

Despite the shift to less invasive surgeries, our analysis shows significant improvement over time, especially in advanced-stage diseases, highlighting the impact of evolving strategies on challenging cases.
Community perceptions towards the ecosystem services of urban forests in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Zeratsion Berihu Tesfamariam , Gebreslassie Aster , Gebrewahid Yikunoamlak , Berhe Daniel Hagos , Manaye Ashenafi , Gebru Kebede Manjur , Kifle Bisrat
Published: July 2024

Urban forests are crucial providers of ecosystem services, delivering significant benefits to residents and the environment. This study aimed to investigate how residents in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, perceive the ecosystem services provided by urban forests. Understanding these perceptions is essential, particularly in developing countries and the study area, where little research has been conducted on this topic. To achieve this objective, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted among randomly selected household heads from two sub-cities within Mekelle. The collected data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including Spearman rank correlation and ordinal regression analysis. These analyses helped identify the factors influencing inhabitants’ perceptions of ecosystem services. The findings revealed that residents placed a high value on the regulating ecosystem services provided by urban forests. In contrast, provisioning, supporting, and cultural ecosystem services were perceived at a medium level. Additionally, the analysis indicated that the level of education and age of respondents were significant factors influencing their overall perception of these ecosystem services. Higher educational attainment and older age were associated with a greater appreciation of the ecosystem services offered by urban forests. This study has important implications for urban forest management and policy. It highlights the necessity of incorporating community perceptions of ecosystem services into urban planning and management efforts. Moreover, the study recommends the need for local governments to focus on raising community awareness about the ecosystem services provided by urban forests. This can ensure more effective and inclusive urban forest management strategies that align with community values and needs.
A crystallographic approach to symmetry-breaking in fluid layers
Authors: Rudge John F. , McKenzie Dan
Published: July 2024

Symmetry-breaking bifurcations, where a flow state with a certain symmetry undergoes a transition to a state with a different symmetry, are ubiquitous in fluid mechanics. Much can be understood about the nature of these transitions from symmetry alone, using the theory of groups and their representations. Here, we show how the extensive databases on groups in crystallography can be exploited to yield insights into fluid dynamical problems. In particular, we demonstrate the application of the crystallographic layer groups to problems in fluid layers, using thermal convection as an example. Crystallographic notation provides a concise and unambiguous description of the symmetries involved, and we advocate its broader use by the fluid dynamics community.
The influence of hypersonic free-stream conicity on the flow over a sphere
Authors: Gu Sangdi , Wen Chih-Yung , Hao Jiaao , Wang Wentao , Wang Qiu
Published: July 2024

The influence of free-stream conicity on the various aspects of the flow over a spherical test model is examined using both analytical and numerical methods. For the analytical method, a simple closed-form analytical model is assembled. Six different free-stream conditions with different Mach numbers, Reynolds numbers and thermochemistry are tested at four different degrees of conicity corresponding to those which can realistically be encountered in experiments. It is found that the results around the stagnation point are mostly insensitive to the flow condition and gas type, except for some mild non-equilibrium effects, and excellent agreement between the analytical and numerical results exists. The shock stand-off distance on the stagnation streamline is shown to decrease with increasing conicity. This decrease increases the tangential velocity gradient at the stagnation point, increasing the stagnation point heat flux and decreasing the stagnation point boundary layer thickness. The free-stream conicity is also found to alter the normalized distributions of the shock stand-off distance, heat flux, surface pressure and boundary layer thickness with the angle from the stagnation point. In general, increasing the conicity magnifies the slope of these distributions. Regarding the boundary layer transition, it is found that, if it occurs in a uniform free stream, it would also occur in a conical free stream, albeit with the transition point shifted upstream closer to the stagnation point due to the increase in the boundary layer edge tangential velocity. Overall, considering the relevant experimental uncertainties, corrections for free-stream conicity are generally recommended when larger test models are used.
A high-speed tandem hydrofoil cascade
Authors: Marshall J.S. , Johnson E.R.
Published: July 2024

This paper gives, in the limit of infinite Froude number, a closed-form, analytical solution for steady, two-dimensional, irrotational, infinite-depth, free-surface, attached flow over a submerged tandem cascade of hydrofoils for arbitrary angle of attack, depth of submergence and interfoil separation. The multiply connected flow domain is conformally mapped to a concentric annulus in an auxiliary plane. The complex flow potential and its derivative, the complex velocity, are obtained in the auxiliary plane by considering their form at known special points in the flow and the required conformal mapping is determined by explicit integration, allowing accurate evaluation of various flow quantities including the lift on each foil. The circulation around the foils causes the foil array to act as a row of point vortices, or a shear layer, and so, for positive angles of attack, the flow speed at the free surface can substantially exceed the speed at depth, with the speeds simply related through the lift coefficient. Decreasing the interfoil separation decreases the disturbance to the free surface and greatly increases the lift per hydrofoil, thus allowing for the shallower operation of a hydrofoil array than of an isolated foil for a given lift requirement. Further, the flow over a hydrofoil array approaches its infinite depth form significantly more rapidly than that over an isolated foil. In contrast to the infinite-submergence case where a through-array flow can be imposed, in the finite submergence case, periodicity and the presence of the free surface mean that there is no net flow between the foils.
Differential Responses of Soil Phosphorus Fractions to Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilization: A Global Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yu Qingshui , Hagedorn Frank , Penuelas Josep , Sardans Jordi , Tan Xiangping , Yan Zhengbing , He Chenqi , Ni Xiaofeng , Feng Yuhao , Zhu Jiangling , Ji Chengjun , Tang Zhiyao , Li Mai‐He , Fang Jingyun
Published: July 2024

Anthropogenic inputs of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) to terrestrial ecosystems alter soil nutrient cycling. However, the global‐scale responses of soil P fractions to N and P inputs and their underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We conducted a global meta‐analysis based on 818 observations of soil P fractions from 99 field N and P addition experiments in forest, grassland, and cropland ecosystems ranging from temperate to tropical zones. Our global meta‐analysis revealed distinct responses of soil P fractions to N and P enrichment. For studies using the Chang and Jackson inorganic (Pi) method, we found that high N addition promoted the transformation of immobile Pi fractions into Ferrum/Aluminum‐bound Pi and available Pi in surface soils through soil acidification. However, this acid‐induced transformation of Pi fractions by N addition was observed only in Calcium‐rich soils, while in acidic soils, further acidification led to increase P binding. In contrast, additions of P alone or combined with N significantly increased all soil Pi fractions. Regarding the Hedley P fractions, N addition generally decreased labile organic P by enhancing soil acid phosphatase activity. The responses of other P fractions were influenced by soil pH, fertilization rates, ecosystem type, and other factors. P addition increased most soil P fractions. Overall, both P fractionation methods consistently demonstrate that N inputs deplete soil P and accelerate P cycling, while P inputs increase most soil P fractions, alleviating P limitation. These findings are crucial for predicting the effects of future atmospheric N and P deposition on P cycling processes.
Deficiency of SIAH1 promotes the formation of filopodia by increasing the accumulation of FASN in liver cancer
Authors: Liu Zhiyi , Hu Qinghe , Cao Kuan , Sun Jun , Cui Licheng , Ji Mengxuan , Shan Wengang , Yang Weichao , Zhang Guowei , Tian Zilu , Shi Hengliang , Zhang Bin , Wang Renhao
Published: July 2024

It has been shown that the formation of filopodia is a key step in tumor cell metastasis, but there is limited research regarding its mechanism. In this study, we demonstrated that fatty acid synthase (FASN) promoted filopodia formation in liver cancer cells by regulating fascin actin-bundling protein 1 (FSCN1), a marker protein for filopodia. Mechanistically, on the one hand, the accumulation of FASN is caused by the enhanced deubiquitination of FASN mediated by UCHL5 (ubiquitin c-terminal hydrolase L5). In this pathway, low expression of SIAH1 (Seven in absentia homolog 1) can decrease the ubiquitination and degradation of ADRM1 (adhesion regulating molecule 1) thereby increasing its protein level, which will recruit and activate the deubiquitination enzyme UCHL5, leading to FASN undergo deubiquitination and escape from proteasomal degradation. On the other hand, the accumulation of FASN is related to its weakened ubiquitination, where SIAH1 directly acts as a ubiquitin ligase toward FASN, and low expression of SIAH1 reduces the ubiquitination and degradation of FASN. Both the two pathways are involved in the regulation of FASN in liver cancer. Our results reveal a novel mechanism for FASN accumulation due to the low expression of SIAH1 in human liver cancer and suggest an important role of FASN in filopodia formation in liver cancer cells.
Deubiquitinase USP9x regulates the proline biosynthesis pathway in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Becirovic Tina , Zhang Boxi , Lindskog Cecilia , Norberg Erik , Vakifahmetoglu-Norberg Helin , Kaminskyy Vitaliy O. , Kochetkova Elena
Published: July 2024

Metabolic rewiring has been recognized as a hallmark of malignant transformation, supplying the biosynthetic and energetic demands for rapid cancer cell proliferation and tumor progression. A comprehensive understanding of the regulatory mechanisms governing these metabolic processes is still limited. Here, we identify the deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific peptidase 9 X-linked (USP9x) as a positive regulator of the proline biosynthesis pathway in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Our findings demonstrate USP9x directly stabilizes pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase 3 (PYCR3), a key enzyme in the proline cycle. Disruption of proline biosynthesis by either USP9x or PYCR3 knockdown influences the proline cycle leading to a decreased activity of the connected pentose phosphate pathway and mitochondrial respiration. We show that USP9x is elevated in human cancer tissues and its suppression impairs NSCLC growth in vitro and in vivo. Overall, our study uncovers a novel function of USP9x as a regulator of the proline biosynthesis pathway, which impacts lung cancer growth and progression, and implicates a new potential therapeutic avenue.
Complex behavior from intrinsic motivation to occupy future action-state path space
Authors: Ramírez-Ruiz Jorge , Grytskyy Dmytro , Mastrogiuseppe Chiara , Habib Yamen , Moreno-Bote Rubén
Published: July 2024

Most theories of behavior posit that agents tend to maximize some form of reward or utility. However, animals very often move with curiosity and seem to be motivated in a reward-free manner. Here we abandon the idea of reward maximization and propose that the goal of behavior is maximizing occupancy of future paths of actions and states. According to this maximum occupancy principle, rewards are the means to occupy path space, not the goal per se; goal-directedness simply emerges as rational ways of searching for resources so that movement, understood amply, never ends. We find that action-state path entropy is the only measure consistent with additivity and other intuitive properties of expected future action-state path occupancy. We provide analytical expressions that relate the optimal policy and state-value function and prove convergence of our value iteration algorithm. Using discrete and continuous state tasks, including a high-dimensional controller, we show that complex behaviors such as “dancing”, hide-and-seek, and a basic form of altruistic behavior naturally result from the intrinsic motivation to occupy path space. All in all, we present a theory of behavior that generates both variability and goal-directedness in the absence of reward maximization.
Electrochemical on-surface synthesis of a strong electron-donating graphene nanoribbon catalyst
Authors: Sakaguchi Hiroshi , Kojima Takahiro , Cheng Yingbo , Nobusue Shunpei , Fukami Kazuhiro
Published: July 2024

On-surface synthesis of edge-functionalized graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) has attracted much attention. However, producing such GNRs on a large scale through on-surface synthesis under ultra-high vacuum on thermally activated metal surfaces has been challenging. This is mainly due to the decomposition of functional groups at temperatures of 300 to 500 °C and limited monolayer GNR growth based on the metal catalysis. To overcome these obstacles, we developed an on-surface electrochemical technique that utilizes redox reactions of asymmetric precursors at an electric double layer where a strong electric field is confined to the liquid-solid interface. We successfully demonstrate layer-by-layer growth of strong electron-donating GNRs on electrodes at temperatures <80 °C without decomposing functional groups. We show that high-voltage facilitates previously unknown heterochiral di-cationic polymerization. Electrochemically produced GNRs exhibiting one of the strongest electron-donating properties known, enable extraordinary silicon-etching catalytic activity, exceeding those of noble metals, with superior photoconductive properties. Our technique advances the possibility of producing various edge-functional GNRs.
Longitudinal variation in resilient psychosocial functioning is associated with ongoing cortical myelination and functional reorganization during adolescence
Authors: Hettwer Meike D. , Dorfschmidt Lena , Puhlmann Lara M. C. , Jacob Linda M. , Paquola Casey , Bethlehem Richard A. I. ,   NSPN Consortium, Bullmore Edward T. , Eickhoff Simon B. , Valk Sofie L.
Published: July 2024

Adolescence is a period of dynamic brain remodeling and susceptibility to psychiatric risk factors, mediated by the protracted consolidation of association cortices. Here, we investigated whether longitudinal variation in adolescents’ resilience to psychosocial stressors during this vulnerable period is associated with ongoing myeloarchitectural maturation and consolidation of functional networks. We used repeated myelin-sensitive Magnetic Transfer (MT) and resting-state functional neuroimaging (n = 141), and captured adversity exposure by adverse life events, dysfunctional family settings, and socio-economic status at two timepoints, one to two years apart. Development toward more resilient psychosocial functioning was associated with increasing myelination in the anterolateral prefrontal cortex, which showed stabilized functional connectivity. Studying depth-specific intracortical MT profiles and the cortex-wide synchronization of myeloarchitectural maturation, we further observed wide-spread myeloarchitectural reconfiguration of association cortices paralleled by attenuated functional reorganization with increasingly resilient outcomes. Together, resilient/susceptible psychosocial functioning showed considerable intra-individual change associated with multi-modal cortical refinement processes at the local and system-level.
The small CRL4CSA ubiquitin ligase component DDA1 regulates transcription-coupled repair dynamics
Authors: Llerena Schiffmacher Diana A. , Lee Shun-Hsiao , Kliza Katarzyna W. , Theil Arjan F. , Akita Masaki , Helfricht Angela , Bezstarosti Karel , Gonzalo-Hansen Camila , van Attikum Haico , Verlaan-de Vries Matty , Vertegaal Alfred C. O. , Hoeijmakers Jan H. J. , Marteijn Jurgen A. , Lans Hannes , Demmers Jeroen A. A. , Vermeulen Michiel , Sixma Titia K. , Ogi Tomoo , Vermeulen Wim , Pines Alex
Published: July 2024

Transcription-blocking DNA lesions are specifically targeted by transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER), which removes a broad spectrum of DNA lesions to preserve transcriptional output and thereby cellular homeostasis to counteract aging. TC-NER is initiated by the stalling of RNA polymerase II at DNA lesions, which triggers the assembly of the TC-NER-specific proteins CSA, CSB and UVSSA. CSA, a WD40-repeat containing protein, is the substrate receptor subunit of a cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase complex composed of DDB1, CUL4A/B and RBX1 (CRL4CSA). Although ubiquitination of several TC-NER proteins by CRL4CSA has been reported, it is still unknown how this complex is regulated. To unravel the dynamic molecular interactions and the regulation of this complex, we apply a single-step protein-complex isolation coupled to mass spectrometry analysis and identified DDA1 as a CSA interacting protein. Cryo-EM analysis shows that DDA1 is an integral component of the CRL4CSA complex. Functional analysis reveals that DDA1 coordinates ubiquitination dynamics during TC-NER and is required for efficient turnover and progression of this process.
Analyzing resilience influencing factors in the prefabricated building supply chain based on SEM-SD methodology
Authors: Lin Mingchao , Ren Yifei , Feng Chao , Li Xiaojuan
Published: July 2024

The supply chain for prefabricated buildings (PB) currently grapples with pressing challenges. In order to ensure the safe and stable development of the prefabricated building supply chains (PBSC), this study aims to identify the key factors and internal mechanisms affecting the PBSC, and propose a supply chain resilience enhancement mechanism, so as to promote the sustainable development of the PB industry. The study combined a literature review and survey data to identify key resilience factors in PBSC. A Structural Equation Model (SEM) was used to explore the relationships between these factors. System dynamics were applied to create a simulation model, assessing the resilience impact level and conducting sensitivity analysis. The results show that the transportation and procurement processes are the most significant factors influencing supply chain resilience. The external environmental factors wielded a more pronounced impact on the overall evaluation of supply chain resilience than the delivery and use processes, but delivery and use processes are more sensitive. The study uses the Pressure-State-Response (PSR) model to suggest strategies for enhancing supply chain resilience. This study contributes to more sustainable and efficient construction practices by offering an innovative theoretical framework to analyze the factors influencing PBSC resilience and proposing enhancement strategies.
Using integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore the effects of infant formula on the growth and development of small intestinal organoids
Authors: Wang Xianli , Jing Yuxin , Zheng Chengdong , Huang Chenxuan , Yao Haiyang , Guo Zimo , Wu Yilun , Wang Zening , Wu Zhengyang , Ge Ruihong , Cheng Wei , Yan Yuanyuan , Jiang Shilong , Sun Jianguo , Li Jingquan , Xie Qinggang , Li Xiaoguang , Wang Hui
Published: July 2024

Infant formulas are designed to provide sufficient energy and the necessary nutrients to support the growth and development of newborns.
Spontaneous and rapid electrostatic solvent nanofiltration based on a conductive layered membrane
Authors: Song Song , Sun Haozhe , Xia Jiaxiang , Bao Shiwen , Ding Wenbin , Liu Nuo , Wang Tianwen , Sui Kunyan , Gao Jun , Liu Xueli , Jiang Lei
Published: July 2024

An electrostatic solvent nanofiltration (ESN) method was developed for separating water from a variety of miscible solvents with high flux and negligible energy consumption by using an electrically conductive layered MXene membrane.
Self-standing hollow Ni-doped Mo2C nanotube arrays induced by the Kirkendall effect for an efficient hydrogen evolution reaction in acidic and alkaline solutions
Authors: Li Chen , Ye Beirong , Zhang Tengfei , Chen Renhong , Li Yongqi , Liu Xin , Wu Tongwei , Liu Hongxian , Xia Xinhui , Zhang Yongqi
Published: July 2024

Ni-Mo2C nanotube arrays with a large specific surface area, superhydrophilic/superaerophobic surface and excellent charge transfer capability as efficient HER catalysts.
Multi-step cation substitution facilitating the exploration of potential infrared nonlinear optical materials
Authors: Han Ya-Xiang , Hu Chun-Li , Chen Wen-Tong , Mao Jiang-Gao
Published: July 2024

Multi-step cation substitution is an effective method to regulate the tetrahedral frameworks and enhance infrared nonlinear optical performance.
Photoredox/nickel dual-catalyzed deaminative cross-electrophile for allenylic alkylation with non-activated alkyl katritzky salts
Authors: Zhou Zhao-Zhao , Zhai Xiao-Feng , Xia Ke-Jian , Song Xian-Rong , Ding Haixin , Tian Wan-Fa , Zhang Shu-Liang , Liang Yong-Min , Xiao Qiang
Published: July 2024

The first allenylic alkylation with non-activated aliphatic amine derivatives, Katritzky salts, has been developed via photoredox/nickel dual-catalyzed reductive deaminative cross-electrophile coupling.
The molecular basis for the increased stability of the FUS-LC fibril at the anionic membrane- and air–water interfaces
Authors: Paul Sanjoy , Mondal Sayantan , Shenogina Irina , Cui Qiang
Published: July 2024

The backbone hydrogen bonds of a peptide assembly derived from FUS-LC gain excess stability at the anionic membrane-water and air–water interfaces due to distinctive interfacial solvation properties.
Analytic approximations for massive close post-mass transfer binary systems
Authors: Schürmann C. , Langer N. , Kramer J. A. , Marchant P. , Wang C. , Sen K.
Published: July 2024

Massive binary evolution models are needed to predict massive star populations in star-forming galaxies, the supernova diversity, and the number and properties of gravitational wave sources. Such models are often computed using so-called rapid binary evolution codes, which approximate the evolution of the binary components based on detailed single star models. However, about one-third of the interacting massive binary stars undergo mass transfer during core hydrogen-burning (Case A mass transfer), whose outcome is difficult to derive from single star models. For this work, we used a large grid of detailed binary evolution models for primaries in the initial mass range 10–40 M⊙ with a Large and Small Magellanic Cloud composition, to derive analytic fits for the key quantities needed in rapid binary evolution codes, that is, the duration of core hydrogen-burning, and the resulting donor star mass. We find that systems with shorter orbital periods produce up to 50% lighter stripped donors and have a lifetime up to 30% larger than wider systems. Both quantities strongly depend on the initial binary orbital period, but the initial mass ratio and the mass-transfer efficiency of the binary have little impact on the outcome. Our results are easily parameterisable and can be used to capture the effects of Case A mass transfer more accurately in rapid binary evolution codes.
Acute Metabolic Response, Neuromuscular Activity, and Mechanical
Performance to Different Set
Authors: Páez-Maldonado José Antonio , Cornejo-Daza PedroJesús , Sánchez-Valdepeñas Juan , Sánchez-Moreno Miguel , Yuzo-Nakamura Fábio , Pareja-Blanco Fernando , Ortega-Becerra Manuel
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the acute metabolic response, neuromuscular
activity, and mechanical performance of different set configurations in
bench-press (BP). Twenty-two resistance-trained men performed three resistance
exercise protocols consisting of 3 x 12 BP repetitions at 60% 1RM, with 4
minutes of rest between sets, but with different set configurations: (a)
traditional set (TS), without rest within the set; (b) cluster-6 (CS6), with
30-second intraset rest after the sixth repetition in each set; and (c)
cluster-2 (CS2), with 30-second intraset rest every two repetitions. Mean
propulsive force (MPF), velocity (MPV), power (MPP), and electromyography (EMG)
values were recorded for each repetition. Blood lactate, maximal voluntary
isometric BP contraction, and dynamic strength in BP were assessed pre- and
post-exercise. The CS2 protocol resulted in greater mechanical performance
(i. e. MPF, MPV, and MPP) and lower alterations of EMG parameters (i. e. root
mean square and median frequency) during the exercise compared to CS6 and TS
(TS<CS6<CS2). The CS2 protocol induced smaller increases in lactate
compared to TS and CS6. No significant “protocol x time” interactions were
observed for the MVIC (maximal voluntary isometric BP contraction) variables.
Introducing short but frequent intraset rest periods alleviates training-induced
fatigue assessed by better performance maintenance.
Pediatric Shoulder Girdle
Authors: Farooq Mobeen , Belair Jeffrey A. , Desai Vishal
Published: July 2024

The pediatric shoulder girdle is a complex anatomical structure uniting the upper extremity and trunk. The osseous structures, their articulations, and the surrounding soft tissue support structures (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) allow for a wide range of motion at the shoulder. Growth and maturation of the components at the shoulder girdle vary, particularly the osseous structures. This characteristic renders interpretation of imaging of the pediatric shoulder girdle more challenging because normal or variant anatomy can be confused for pathology. We review the physiologic growth and maturation of the shoulder girdle with special emphasis on the development of the bones and their articulations. The role of various imaging modalities and the common osseous and soft tissue variants in the pediatric shoulder are also discussed.