bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structural determinants of phosphorylation‐dependent nuclear transport of HCMV DNA polymerase processivity factor UL44
Authors: Cross Emily M. , Marin Oriano , Ariawan Daryl , Aragão David , Cozza Giorgio , Di Iorio Enzo , Forwood Jade K. , Alvisi Gualtiero 
Published: December 2023

Human cytomegalovirus DNA polymerase processivity factor UL44 is transported into the nucleus by importin (IMP) α/β through a classical nuclear localization signal (NLS), and this region is susceptible to cdc2‐mediated phosphorylation at position T427. Whilst phosphorylation within and close to the UL44 NLS regulates nuclear transport, the details remain elusive, due to the paucity of structural information regarding the role of negatively charged cargo phosphate groups. We addressed this issue by studying the effect of UL44 T427 phosphorylation on interaction with several IMPα isoforms by biochemical and structural approaches. Phosphorylation decreased UL44/IMPα affinity 10‐fold, and a comparative structural analysis of UL44 NLS phosphorylated and non‐phosphorylated peptides complexed with mouse IMPα2 revealed the structural rearrangements responsible for phosphorylation‐dependent inhibition of UL44 nuclear import.
Voxel‐based dysconnectomic brain morphometry with computed tomography in Down syndrome
Authors: Sánchez‐Moreno Beatriz , Zhang Linda , Mateo Gloria , Moldenhauer Fernando , Brudfors Mikael , Ashburner John , Nachev Parashkev , de Asúa Diego Real , Strange Bryan A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractObjectiveAlzheimer's disease (AD) is a major health concern for aging adults with Down syndrome (DS), but conventional diagnostic techniques are less reliable in those with severe baseline disability. Likewise, acquisition of magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate cerebral atrophy is not straightforward, as prolonged scanning times are less tolerated in this population. Computed tomography (CT) scans can be obtained faster, but poor contrast resolution limits its function for morphometric analysis. We implemented an automated analysis of CT scans to characterize differences across dementia stages in a cross‐sectional study of an adult DS cohort.MethodsCT scans of 98 individuals were analyzed using an automatic algorithm. Voxel‐based correlations with clinical dementia stages and AD plasma biomarkers (phosphorylated tau‐181 and neurofilament light chain) were identified, and their dysconnectomic patterns delineated.ResultsDementia severity was negatively correlated with gray (GM) and white matter (WM) volumes in temporal lobe regions, including parahippocampal gyri. Dysconnectome analysis revealed an association between WM loss and temporal lobe GM volume reduction. AD biomarkers were negatively associated with GM volume in hippocampal and cingulate gyri.InterpretationOur automated algorithm and novel dysconnectomic analysis of CT scans successfully described brain morphometric differences related to AD in adults with DS, providing a new avenue for neuroimaging analysis in populations for whom magnetic resonance imaging is difficult to obtain.
Nuclear pore pathology underlying multisystem proteinopathy type 3‐related inclusion body myopathy
Authors: Izumi Rumiko , Ikeda Kensuke , Niihori Tetsuya , Suzuki Naoki , Shirota Matsuyuki , Funayama Ryo , Nakayama Keiko , Warita Hitoshi , Tateyama Maki , Aoki Yoko , Aoki Masashi 
Published: December 2023

AbstractObjectiveMultisystem proteinopathy type 3 (MSP3) is an inherited, pleiotropic degenerative disorder caused by a mutation in heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNPA1), which can affect the muscle, bone, and/or nervous system. This study aimed to determine detailed histopathological features and transcriptomic profile of HNRNPA1‐mutated skeletal muscles to reveal the core pathomechanism of hereditary inclusion body myopathy (hIBM), a predominant phenotype of MSP3.MethodsHistopathological analyses and RNA sequencing of HNRNPA1‐mutated skeletal muscles harboring a c.940G > A (p.D314N) mutation (NM_031157) were performed, and the results were compared with those of HNRNPA1‐unlinked hIBM and control muscle tissues.ResultsRNA sequencing revealed aberrant alternative splicing events that predominantly occurred in myofibril components and mitochondrial respiratory complex. Enrichment analyses identified the nuclear pore complex (NPC) and nucleocytoplasmic transport as suppressed pathways. These two pathways were linked by the hub genes NUP50, NUP98, NUP153, NUP205, and RanBP2. In immunohistochemistry, these nucleoporin proteins (NUPs) were mislocalized to the cytoplasm and aggregated mostly with TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 kDa and, to a lesser extent, with hnRNPA1. Based on ultrastructural observation, irregularly shaped myonuclei with deep invaginations were frequently observed in atrophic fibers, consistent with the disorganization of NPCs. Additionally, regarding the expression profiles of overall NUPs, reduced expression of NUP98, NUP153, and RanBP2 was shared with HNRNPA1‐unlinked hIBMs.InterpretationThe shared subset of altered NUPs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as demonstrated in prior research, HNRNPA1‐mutated, and HNRNPA1‐unlinked hIBM muscle tissues may provide evidence regarding the underlying common nuclear pore pathology of hIBM, ALS, and MSP.
Flame‐Retardant Polyurethane‐Based Solid‐State Polymer Electrolytes Enabled by Covalent Bonding for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wu Lin , Pei Fei , Cheng Dongming , Zhang Yi , Cheng Hang , Huang Kai , Yuan Lixia , Li Zhen , Xu Henghui , Huang Yunhui 
Published: December 2023

AbstractSolid‐state lithium metal batteries (SSLMBs) have gained extensive attraction as one kind of next‐generation energy storage device. However, the drawbacks of flammability, low mechanical strength, and low ionic conductivity limit the further development of solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SPEs). In this work, a reactive flame‐retardant unit into the polymer framework via covalent bonding to create a nonflammable and stretchable polyurethane‐based SPEs is introduced. Meanwhile, the mechanical strength of the polymer backbone is increased by grafting a rigid benzene ring unit, which remarkably suppresses the lithium‐dendrite growth. As a result, these inflammable SPEs do not burn after contact with flames for 6 s. Furthermore, the obtained SPE expands the electrochemical stability window up to 5.1 V. Small monomers containing bromine decompose on the surface of lithium metal creating a LiBr riched solid electrolyte interface (SEI). Li|SPEs|Li symmetric battery offers a stable cycling life for more than 2100 h at 0.2 mA cm−2 and 0.2 mAh cm−2. The LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2|SPEs|Li cell equipped with the integrated cathode delivers a 142.1 mAh g−1 capacity after 330 cycles at 0.3 C with 85.2% capacity retention.
Microfluidic Giant Polymer Vesicles Equipped with Biopores for High‐Throughput Screening of Bacteria
Authors: Heuberger Lukas , Messmer Daniel , dos Santos Elena C. , Scherrer Dominik , Lörtscher Emanuel , Schoenenberger Cora‐Ann , Palivan Cornelia G. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractUnderstanding the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance is critical for the development of new therapeutics. Traditional methods for testing bacteria are often limited in their efficiency and reusability. Single bacterial cells can be studied at high throughput using double emulsions, although the lack of control over the oil shell permeability and limited access to the droplet interior present serious drawbacks. Here, a straightforward strategy for studying bacteria‐encapsulating double emulsion‐templated giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) is introduced. This microfluidic approach serves to simultaneously load bacteria inside synthetic GUVs and to permeabilize their membrane with the pore‐forming peptide melittin. This enables antibiotic delivery or the influx of fresh medium into the GUV lumen for highly parallel cultivation and antimicrobial efficacy testing. Polymer‐based GUVs proved to be efficient culture and analysis microvessels, as microfluidics allow easy selection and encapsulation of bacteria and rapid modification of culture conditions for antibiotic development. Further, a method for in situ profiling of biofilms within GUVs for high‐throughput screening is demonstrated. Conceivably, synthetic GUVs equipped with biopores can serve as a foundation for the high‐throughput screening of bacterial colony interactions during biofilm formation and for investigating the effect of antibiotics on biofilms.
Efficient and Stable Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cells Modulated with Triple‐Functional Passivator
Authors: Yang Tian , Mao Lin , Shi Jianhua , Zeng Peng , Li Faming , Gong Jue , Huang Xiyun , Wang Zhengshang , Cui Wen , Huang Di , Zhang Hao , Sun Yinqing , Fang Xiaoyu , Liu Zhengxin , Liu Mingzhen , Cui Xudong 
Published: December 2023

AbstractPerovskite/silicon tandem solar cells (TSCs) have aroused much attentions in recent years. One of keys for achieving highly efficient and stable TSCs is to guarantee effective charge transfer, especially on the rough textured silicon substrate due to the poor adhesion between interlayers. Here, a 2‐fluoroisonicotinic acid (2‐FNA) additive that possesses fluorine (‐F), carboxylic acid (‐COOH), and pyridine nitrogen as functional groups in the perovskite precursor to assist the crystallization process is utilized. It shows that 2‐FNA can efficiently reduce the defects and suppress non‐radiative recombination of perovskite layers by bonding with the uncoordinated Pb2+ ions, formamidinium (FA+), and halide vacancies, leading to notably prolonged carrier lifetime. Most importantly, this found that 2‐FNA aids in the formation of better interfacial contact between the perovskite and C60 layer on top, thus enhancing the interfacial electron extraction therein, eventually leading to an increased power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 28.61% on champion perovskite/silicon TSCs from 27.08% on control counterparts. This work provides a practical route to further advance the PV performance and applicability of perovskite/silicon TSCs.
Synergism of sulfur availability and agronomic nitrogen use efficiency
Authors: Agyin‐Birikorang Sampson , Boubakry Cissé , Kadyampakeni Davie M. , Adu‐Gyamfi Raphael , Chambers Rachel A. , Tindjina Ignatius , Fuseni Abdul‐Rahman A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractNutrient management strategies that exploit nutrient elements’ synergistic interaction to enhance nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) are needed for economic and environmental reasons. A field study was carried out during the 2020–2022 growing seasons at six locations in three countries: two each in the United States, Ghana, and Mali using three sulfur (S) sources with different bioavailability levels (micronized elemental S, untreated elemental S, and ammonium sulfate); applied at five S application rates: site‐specific recommended S rate (SR), 25%, 50%, 75%, and 125% of SR; and a single nitrogen (N) application rate (site‐specific recommended N rate) to comprehensively investigate the influence of S availability on NUE. Specific objectives were to evaluate the impact of S availability on corn (Zea mays L.) yield, N uptake, and NUE. Regardless of the S source and experimental site, the aboveground S and N uptake were strongly and positively correlated (r > 0.88). Increases in apparent N recovery efficiency and agronomic NUE occurred with corresponding increases in S application rate, irrespective of the site and S source. The combined data showed that the agronomic efficiency of applied N fertilizer sources could be enhanced significantly by increasing S availability in soils. With the rising N fertilizer costs in recent times, N losses from the applied fertilizer are a drain on farmers’ income and of environmental concern. Thus, increasing NUE is a needed strategy to safeguard against excessive N application, increase farm profits, and minimize N losses to the environment that could disrupt the ecosystem function.
Umbrella review and Delphi study on modifiable factors for dementia risk reduction
Authors: Rosenau Colin , Köhler Sebastian , Soons Lion M. , Anstey Kaarin J. , Brayne Carol , Brodaty Henry , Engedal Knut , Farina Francesca R. , Ganguli Mary , Livingston Gill , Lyketsos Constantine G. , Mangialasche Francesca , Middleton Laura E. , Rikkert Marcel G. M. Olde , Peters Ruth , Sachdev Perminder S. , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Salbæk Geir , van Boxtel Martin P. J. , Deckers Kay 
Published: December 2023

AbstractA 2013 systematic review and Delphi consensus study identified 12 modifiable risk and protective factors for dementia, which were subsequently merged into the “LIfestyle for BRAin health” (LIBRA) score. We systematically evaluated whether LIBRA requires revision based on new evidence. To identify modifiable risk and protective factors suitable for dementia risk reduction, we combined an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses with a two‐round Delphi consensus study. The review of 608 unique primary studies and opinions of 18 experts prioritized six modifiable factors: hearing impairment, social contact, sleep, life course inequalities, atrial fibrillation, and psychological stress. Based on expert ranking, hearing impairment, social contact, and sleep were considered the most suitable candidates for inclusion in updated dementia risk scores. As such, the current study shows that dementia risk scores need systematic updates based on emerging evidence. Future studies will validate the updated LIBRA score in different cohorts.Highlights
An umbrella review was combined with opinions of 18 dementia experts.
Various candidate targets for dementia risk reduction were identified.
Experts prioritized hearing impairment, social contact, and sleep.
Re‐assessment of dementia risk scores is encouraged.
Future work should evaluate the predictive validity of updated risk scores.
Lifetime occupational skill and later‐life cognitive function among older adults in the United States, Mexico, India, and South Africa
Authors: Kobayashi Lindsay C. , O'Shea Brendan Q. , Wixom Caroline , Jones Richard N. , Langa Kenneth M. , Weir David , Lee Jinkook , Wong Rebeca , Gross Alden L. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractINTRODUCTIONWe conducted a cross‐national comparison of the association between main lifetime occupational skills and later‐life cognitive function across four economically and socially distinct countries.METHODSData were from population‐based studies of aging and their Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocols (HCAPs) in the US, South Africa, India, and Mexico (N = 10,037; Age range: 50 to 105 years; 2016 to 2020). Main lifetime occupational skill was classified according to the International Standard Classification of Occupations. Weighted, adjusted regression models estimated pooled and country‐specific associations between main lifetime occupational skill and later‐life general cognitive function in men and women.RESULTSWe observed positive gradients between occupational skill and later‐life cognitive function for men and women in the US and Mexico, a positive gradient for women but not men in India, and no association for men or women in South Africa.DISCUSSIONMain lifetime occupations may be a source of later‐life cognitive reserve, with cross‐national heterogeneity in this association.Highlights
No studies have examined cross‐national differences in the association of occupational skill with cognition.
We used data from Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocols in the US, Mexico, India, and South Africa.
The association of occupational skill with cognitive function varies by country and gender.
Establishment and evaluation of an improved rat model of open abdomen
Authors: Liu Ye , Li Sicheng , Huang Jinjian , Li Ze , Chen Kang , Qu Guiwen , Wu Xiuwen , Ren Jianan 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntroductionThis study aimed to establish an animal model of open abdomen (OA) through temporary abdominal closure via different techniques.MethodsAdult male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: group A (OA with polypropylene mesh alone); group B (OA with polypropylene mesh combined with a patch); and group C (OA with polypropylene mesh and a sutured patch). Vital signs, pathophysiological changes, and survival rates were closely monitored in the rats for 7 days after surgery. Abdominal X‐rays and histopathological examinations were performed to assess abdominal organ changes and wound healing.ResultsThe results showed no significant difference in mortality rates among the three groups (p > 0.05). However, rats in group B exhibited superior overall condition, cleaner wounds, and a higher rate of wound healing compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Abdominal X‐rays indicated that varying degrees of distal intestinal obstruction in all groups. Histopathological examinations revealed fibrous hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration, neovascularization, and collagen deposition in all groups. Group B demonstrated enhanced granulation tissue generation, neovascularization, and collagen deposition compared to the other groups (p < 0.05).ConclusionsPolypropylene mesh combined with patches is the most suitable method for establishing an animal model of OA. This model successfully replicated the pathological and physiological changes in postoperative patients with OA, specifically the progress of abdominal skin wound healing. It provides a practical and reliable animal model for OA research.
Stringiness morphology for crosslinked polyacrylic pressure‐sensitive adhesives measured by peel testing with constant rate
Authors: Nakamura Yoshinobu , Yoshioka Daichi , Sato Tomonori , Takenaka Ayuna , Yoden Hiroyuki , Hikasa Shigeki , Urahama Yoshiaki , Hirai Tomoyasu , Fujii Syuji 
Published: December 2023

AbstractTo clarify the formation mechanism of front frame‐type morphology, the stringiness of crosslinked random copolymers of poly(n‐butyl acrylate‐acrylic acid) during a 180° peel test with a constant tensile rate was examined for various crosslinker contents and rates using a quartz adherend. Cohesive failure occurred for lower crosslinker content and rate, whereas interfacial failure with sawtooth‐type stringiness without a frame was observed for higher crosslinker content and rate. Front frame‐type stringiness was formed at the boundary of cohesive and interfacial failures. To clarify the formation mechanism, observation was conducted from the start of peel test until the equilibrium state. The sawtooth‐type stringiness with branches first formed at the tip. The adjoining branches were connected and the 2D frame was formed only on the adherend surface. The formed 2D frame developed toward the 3D walls and the front frame‐type was then completed. This is caused by the surface tension that acts to restrain the increase in the surface area. However, the surface area of the front frame‐type morphology was larger than the no frame‐type. The larger absorption of peeling stress by the formation of this morphology is expected to contribute to peel strength improvement.
Bio‐based waterborne polyurethane structural color films with high stability
Authors: He Yueqi , Zhu Yun , Xue Xiaojie , Song Yang , Hu Guyue , Wang Qirun , Jia Runping , Xu Xiaowei , Shi Jichao 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIn recent years, structural colors derived from photonic crystals (PCs) with a periodically ordered nanostructure are gorgeous and iridescent, but once their structure is destroyed, they will fade. In this work, the feasibility of the application of bio‐based waterborne polyurethanes (WPU) in structural color films was explored. The structural stability of PCs is enhanced bio‐based WPU as a kind of green product, which can replace solvent polyurethane one. A tung oil polyol (TOP) is fabricated by one‐step method with simple purification process and used to prepare waterborne polyurethane dispersions (WPUD). More introduction of TOP into the WPUD may help improve tensile strength and hydrophobic capability. It shows excellent mechanical properties with 16.8 MPa in tensile strength and water contact angle 109.5°. The SEM images confirmed that bio‐based WPU is more conducive to the self‐assembly of silica particles than traditional WPU.
Intercalated kaolinite with ammonium dihydrogen phosphate as an effective flame retardant to enhance the flame retardance and smoke suppression of epoxy resins
Authors: Yan Long , Wei Zheng , Guan Jingjing , Tang Xinyu , Liu Yan 
Published: December 2023

AbstractTo improve the compatibility and flame retardance of kaolinite (Kaol) in polymeric materials, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (ADP) was intercalated into kaolinite to obtain a novel intercalated kaolinite (K‐ADP) for enhancing thermal stability, flame retardance, smoke suppression, and mechanical performance of epoxy resins (EPs). The results show that the presence of K‐ADP exerts a more positive effect on reducing the heat release and smoke generation of EPs than the same addition of Kaol. Condensed phase analysis shows that EP/K‐ADP composite generates more aromatic cross‐links in the condensed phase to reinforce the compactness and intumescence of char compared to EP/Kaol composite. Especially, 5 wt% K‐ADP confers a 43.7% reduction in peak heat release rate value and a 36.3% reduction in peak smoke production rate value to EP. Toxic gases analysis shows that K‐ADP conduces to inhibiting the release of combustible gases including isocyanates and aromatic volatiles, and generating incombustible gases including ammonia and carbon dioxide to reduce the intensity of EP combustion. The mechanical test shows that K‐ADP imparts less adverse impact on mechanical behavior to EP composites than Kaol due to the good dispersion and compatibility between K‐ADP with EP matrix.
Transfer of learning in histology: Insights from a longitudinal study
Authors: Darici Dogus , Flägel Kristina , Sternecker Katharina , Missler Markus 
Published: December 2023

AbstractAll anatomical educators hope that students apply past training to both similar and new tasks. This two‐group longitudinal study investigated the development of such transfer of learning in a histology course. After 0, 10, and 20 sessions of the 10‐week‐long course, medical students completed theoretical tasks, examined histological slides trained in the course (retention task), and unfamiliar histological slides (transfer task). The results showed that students in the histology group gradually outperformed the control group in all tasks, especially in the second half of the course,η2 = 0.268 (p < 0.001). The best predictor of final transfer performance was students’ retention performance after 10 sessions,β = 0.32 (p = 0.028), and theoretical knowledge after 20 sessions,β = 0.46 (p = 0.003). Results of eye tracking methodology further revealed that the histology group engaged in greater “visual activity” when solving transfer tasks, as indicated by an increase in the total fixation count,η2 = 0.103 (p = 0.014). This longitudinal study provides evidence that medical students can use what they learn in histology courses to solve unfamiliar problems but cautions that positive transfer effects develop relatively late in the course. Thus, course time and the complex relationship between theory, retention, and transfer holds critical implications for anatomical curricula seeking to foster the transfer of learning.