Browse Articles
Discover research articles across all indexed journals
Investigating the Impact of the Stationarity Hypothesis on Heart Failure Detection using Deep Convolutional Scattering Networks and Machine Learning
Multi-heat keypoint incorporation in deep learning model to tropical cyclone centering and intensity classifying from geostationary satellite images
Quantum dot molecular beacons achieve sub-10 pM CRISPR-Cas detection in field-ready assays
Abstract CRISPR-Cas systems have revolutionized molecular diagnostics through their specificity and programmability, yet their broad adoption is hindered by the reliance on expensive and complex instrumentation. Here, we present an optimized quantum dot (QD) molecular beacon (QD-MB) platform that integrates Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based detection with CRISPR-Cas functionality, achieving sub-picomolar sensitivity without the need for target amplification. By systematically tuning components, including His-tag modifications for improved QD conjugation, nucleic acid hairpin structures for enhanced enzyme interaction, and QD surface passivation strategies, we demonstrate a two-order-of-magnitude improvement in detection sensitivity. Using LwaCas13a and RNA targets, the limit of detection (LOD) decreased to under 1 pM with plate-reader-based fluorescence measurements and below 10 pM with a lamp-and-smartphone setup, establishing the feasibility of portable, field-ready applications. This work highlights the transformative potential of QD-MBs in biosensing and sets a foundation for further advances in CRISPR-based diagnostics and nanotechnology-enabled sensing platforms.
Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension
Synthesis and in silico studies of new thiophene-isoquinolinone hybrids as potential larvicides against Culex pipiens
Abstract Mosquito-borne diseases remain a significant global public health challenge. This challenge is further exacerbated by the growing resistance of disease-vector species such as Culex pipiens to conventional insecticides. In this study, we present the design, synthesis, and biological assessment of a new series of thiophene-isoquinolinone hybrids as potential larvicides. Among the synthesized compounds, derivatives 5f, 6, and 7 showed significant larvicidal effectiveness against Culex pipiens larvae, with LC₅₀ values of 0.3, 0.1, and 1.85 µg/mL, respectively. Notably, all twelve thiophene-isoquinolinone derivatives were much more toxic than the reference organophosphate insecticide chlorpyrifos (LC₅₀ = 293.8 µg/mL), demonstrating the strength of these chemical structures. Interestingly, the synthetic intermediate compound 1a, a thiophene-based half-ester, exhibited the highest activity (LC₅₀ = 0.004 µg/mL), outperforming all final derivatives despite not being fully optimized. Mechanistic bioassays showed consistent neurotoxic symptoms that suggest a disruption of cholinergic function. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations supported this observation, revealing strong and specific interactions with both acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), which points to a possible dual-target mechanism. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations further confirmed the favorable electronic properties and reactivity of the active compounds. The structural variety within this series, along with consistently high potency, may lower the risk of cross-resistance and aid resistance management strategies through compound rotation or combination. Overall, these findings highlight thiophene-isoquinolinone hybrids as a promising option for developing next-generation larvicides that target neurophysiological pathways in insect vectors.
Human Papillomavirus and Cancer
A simplified method for calculating the reliability of rockfill dams slope stability using nonlinear parameters
Mitochondrial Donation in a Reproductive Care Pathway for mtDNA Disease
Investigation of dry sliding wear and mechanical properties of hybrid epoxy composites reinforced with pineapple leaf and roselle fibers
Abstract Natural fiber composites have gained significant potential in past decades due to their favorable physical properties and mechanical characteristics. Pineapple leaf fibers and roselle fibers are abundant agricultural wastes and tend to be recycled to minimize environmental pollution. The present work aims to investigate and analyze the effects of reinforcing pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and roselle fiber with epoxy hybrid composites. The composites are fabricated using the hot compression molding process. The mechanical attributes of the composites are studied through tensile, flexural, and impact tests. Along with a hybrid combination of fibers, a neat resin sample and samples of PALF and roselle fiber alone were also fabricated for test comparison. The wear behaviour of the fabricated specimen was explored by pin-on-disc wear test and examined the specific wear rate and co-efficient of friction properties. The fractographic studies of the hybrid composite fractured specimen through tensile and impact tests and the worn surface from the wear tests were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope. The results discovered that 25 wt% of PALF with 25 wt% of roselle fiber composite showed significant improvements in tensile characteristics, flexural and impact strength of 42.03 MPa, 38.17 MPa, and 46 KJ/m2. The best wear resistance was observed for 30 wt% PALF with 20 wt% of roselle fiber hybrid composite. Based on the experiments, hybrid fiber composite sample getting better wear and mechanical properties and suggesting their suitability to applications for cabinets like wardrobes, cupboards, and storage shelves.
A Randomized Trial of Acute Normovolemic Hemodilution in Cardiac Surgery
Uncovering active ingredients and mechanisms of Pholiota adiposa in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease based on network pharmacology and bioinformatics
Resolution of Squamous-Cell Carcinoma by Restoring T-Cell Receptor Signaling
Normalization of elevated preoperative serum creatinine and acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Abstract Preoperative kidney dysfunction is a predictor of acute kidney injury (AKI) following cardiac surgery, limited information exists regarding the impact of preoperative serum creatinine (sCr) change on AKI. This study aims to examine the association between the normalization of elevated preoperative sCr and postoperative AKI, as well as its severity and duration. This retrospective cohort study included patients undergoing open-heart surgery. Patients were categorized into three groups based on preoperative sCr change (ΔScr): the Stable sCr group (maximum ΔScr < 0.3 mg/dL throughout the preoperative period), the Normalized sCr group (maximum ΔScr ≥ 0.3 mg/dL followed by normalization to < 0.3 mg/dL within 48 h pre-surgery), and the Worsened sCr group (maximum ΔScr ≥ 0.3 mg/dL, remaining ≥ 0.3 mg/dL within 48 h pre-surgery). Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between preoperative sCr change and postoperative AKI, severe AKI, and persistent AKI. To control for selection bias, propensity score matching (1:3) was used by matching covariates between the Normalized sCr and the Stable sCr group. Of the 560 patients included, 40.2% developed AKI. In the Normalized sCr group, the rate of AKI was 61.2%, severe AKI 22.4%, and persistent AKI 34.7%. Multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed the Normalized group was associated with higher risk of postoperative AKI (adjusted OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.30‒4.85, p = 0.006), severe AKI (adjusted OR, 3.40; 95% CI, 1.37–8.45, p = 0.008) and persistent AKI (adjusted OR, 2.87; 95% CI 1.36‒6.05, p = 0.006). After propensity matching, 184 patients were matched (46 in the Normalized sCr group and 138 in the Stable sCr group). The Normalized sCr group were still associated with risk of AKI (adjusted OR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.34–5.73, p = 0.006), severe AKI (adjusted OR, 4.10; 95% CI, 1.32–12.71, p = 0.015) and persistent AKI (adjusted OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.21–6.15, p = 0.016). Normalization of preoperative sCr following an initial elevation was associated with higher risks of AKI, as well as AKI severity and duration.