bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA structure profiling at single-cell resolution reveals new determinants of cell identity
Authors: Wang Jiaxu , Zhang Yu , Zhang Tong , Tan Wen Ting , Lambert Finnlay , Darmawan Jefferson , Huber Roland , Wan Yue
Published: January 2024

RNA structure is critical for multiple steps in gene regulation. However, how the structures of transcripts differ both within and between individual cells is unknown. Here we develop a SHAPE-inspired method called single-cell structure probing of RNA transcripts that enables simultaneous determination of transcript secondary structure and abundance at single-cell resolution. We apply single-cell structure probing of RNA transcripts to human embryonic stem cells and differentiating neurons. Remarkably, RNA structure is more homogeneous in human embryonic stem cells compared with neurons, with the greatest homogeneity found in coding regions. More extensive heterogeneity is found within 3′ untranslated regions and is determined by specific RNA-binding proteins. Overall RNA structure profiles better discriminate cell type identity and differentiation stage than gene expression profiles alone. We further discover a cell-type variable region of 18S ribosomal RNA that is associated with cell cycle and translation control. Our method opens the door to the systematic characterization of RNA structure–function relationships at single-cell resolution.
Evaluation of deep learning-based quantitative computed tomography for opportunistic osteoporosis screening
Authors: Oh Sangseok , Kang Woo Young , Park Heejun , Yang Zepa , Lee Jemyoung , Kim Changwon , Woo Ok Hee , Hong Suk-Joo
Published: January 2024

To evaluate diagnostic efficacy of deep learning (DL)-based automated bone mineral density (BMD) measurement for opportunistic screening of osteoporosis with routine computed tomography (CT) scans. A DL-based automated quantitative computed tomography (DL-QCT) solution was evaluated with 112 routine clinical CT scans from 84 patients who underwent either chest (N:39), lumbar spine (N:34), or abdominal CT (N:39) scan. The automated BMD measurements (DL-BMD) on L1 and L2 vertebral bodies from DL-QCT were validated with manual BMD (m-BMD) measurement from conventional asynchronous QCT using Pearson’s correlation and intraclass correlation. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis identified the diagnostic ability of DL-BMD for low BMD and osteoporosis, determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and m-BMD. Excellent concordance were seen between m-BMD and DL-BMD in total CT scans (r = 0.961/0.979). The ROC-derived AUC of DL-BMD compared to that of central DXA for the low-BMD and osteoporosis patients was 0.847 and 0.770 respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of DL-BMD compared to central DXA for low BMD were 75.0%, 75.0%, and 75.0%, respectively, and those for osteoporosis were 68.0%, 80.5%, and 77.7%. The AUC of DL-BMD compared to the m-BMD for low BMD and osteoporosis diagnosis were 0.990 and 0.943, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of DL-BMD compared to m-BMD for low BMD were 95.5%, 93.5%, and 94.6%, and those for osteoporosis were 88.2%, 94.5%, and 92.9%, respectively. DL-BMD exhibited excellent agreement with m-BMD on L1 and L2 vertebrae in the various routine clinical CT scans and had comparable diagnostic performance for detecting the low-BMD and osteoporosis on conventional QCT.
Demonstration of enhanced long-range cosmic time synchronization for wireless and secure dissemination of standard time
Authors: Tanaka Hiroyuki K. M.
Published: January 2024

Accurate traceability of time is prerequisite to the proper functioning of many necessary aspects of our modern life including making financial transactions, managing automated technology and navigating the transport of goods and human beings. One of the most reliable international time references is the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) that can be distributed wirelessly in principle. However, this wireless option is currently limited to GPS and other global navigation satellite systems. GPS signals are weak and easily affected by environmental conditions. Moreover, since GPS signals are unencrypted, the possibility of a signal spoofing attack remains a continuous threat. Prior works showed the potential of the alternative wireless time synchronization technique called Cosmic Time Synchronization (CTS), in which, clocks are located 50 m apart were wirelessly synchronized with a sub-microsecond level accuracy, and its operation time was limited to 20 min. However, for the actual implementation of CTS to real-life situations, these distance and stability values are not sufficient. In this study, we constructed a dedicated CTS facility and conducted a long-haul (180 m) CTS demonstration. As a result, it was verified that this long-range CTS is capable of maintaining stable sub-microsecond time synchronization for 3 days with a granularity of 148.8 ns (SD) and an offset of 22.97 ns. Since the current version of CTS can now operate over an area that has been enlarged by more than one order of magnitude, it is possible to utilize for more diverse applications, and the application to a banking synchronization system is proposed. As a case study, it is shown that CTS now has the capability to offer wireless time synchronization service to large clusters of financial firms in large cities. With its accurate time dissemination (the metrological traceability to UTC), its reasonable cost, and its hack-proof, stable design, this latest CTS model has the capacity to improve the accuracy of timing for a wide variety of sectors.
Comparative analysis of radiomics and deep-learning algorithms for survival prediction in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Schön Felix , Kieslich Aaron , Nebelung Heiner , Riediger Carina , Hoffmann Ralf-Thorsten , Zwanenburg Alex , Löck Steffen , Kühn Jens-Peter
Published: January 2024

To examine the comparative robustness of computed tomography (CT)-based conventional radiomics and deep-learning convolutional neural networks (CNN) to predict overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. Retrospectively, 114 HCC patients with pretherapeutic CT of the liver were randomized into a development (n = 85) and a validation (n = 29) cohort, including patients of all tumor stages and several applied therapies. In addition to clinical parameters, image annotations of the liver parenchyma and of tumor findings on CT were available. Cox-regression based on radiomics features and CNN models were established and combined with clinical parameters to predict OS. Model performance was assessed using the concordance index (C-index). Log-rank tests were used to test model-based patient stratification into high/low-risk groups. The clinical Cox-regression model achieved the best validation performance for OS (C-index [95% confidence interval (CI)] 0.74 [0.57–0.86]) with a significant difference between the risk groups (p = 0.03). In image analysis, the CNN models (lowest C-index [CI] 0.63 [0.39–0.83]; highest C-index [CI] 0.71 [0.49–0.88]) were superior to the corresponding radiomics models (lowest C-index [CI] 0.51 [0.30–0.73]; highest C-index [CI] 0.66 [0.48–0.79]). A significant risk stratification was not possible (p > 0.05). Under clinical conditions, CNN-algorithms demonstrate superior prognostic potential to predict OS in HCC patients compared to conventional radiomics approaches and could therefore provide important information in the clinical setting, especially when clinical data is limited.
YOLO_Bolt: a lightweight network model for bolt detection
Authors: Liu Zhenyu , Lv Haoyuan
Published: January 2024

Accurate, fast, and intelligent workpiece identification is of great significance to industrial production. To cope with the limited hardware resources of factory equipment, we have made lightweight improvements based on You Only Look Once v5 (YOLOv5) and proposed a lightweight YOLO named YOLO_Bolt. First, ghost bottleneck lightweight deep convolution is added to the backbone module and neck module of the YOLOv5 detection algorithm to reduce the model volume. Second, the asymptotic feature pyramid network is added to enhance the feature utilization ability, suppress interference information, and improve detection accuracy. Finally, the relationship between the loss function and the decoupling head structure was focused on, and the number of decoupling head layers was redesigned according to different tasks to further improve the detection accuracy of the workpiece detection model. We conducted experimental verification on the MSCOCO 2017 dataset and the homemade bolt dataset. The experimental results show that compared with YOLOv5s, the number of model parameters is only 6.8 M, which is half that of the original model. On the MSCOCO 2017 dataset, the mAP increased by 2.4%. FPS increased by 104 frames/s. On the homemade dataset, the mAP 0.5 increased by 4.2%, and our proposed method is 1.2% higher than the latest YOLOv8s. The improved network can provide effective auxiliary technical support for workpiece detection.
Semantic congruency modulates the speed-up of multisensory responses
Authors: Roberts Kalvin , Jentzsch Ines , Otto Thomas U.
Published: January 2024

Responses to multisensory signals are often faster compared to their unisensory components. This speed-up is typically attributed to target redundancy in that a correct response can be triggered by one or the other signal. In addition, semantic congruency of signals can also modulate multisensory responses; however, the contribution of semantic content is difficult to isolate as its manipulation commonly changes signal redundancy as well. To disentangle the effects of redundancy and semantic congruency, we manipulated semantic content but kept redundancy constant. We presented semantically congruent/incongruent animal pictures and sounds and asked participants to respond with the same response to two target animals (cats and dogs). We find that the speed-up of multisensory responses is larger for congruent (e.g., barking dogs) than incongruent combinations (e.g., barking cats). We then used a computational modelling approach to analyse audio-visual processing interferences that may underlie the effect. Our data is best described by a model that explains the semantic congruency modulation with a parameter that was previously linked to trial sequence effects, which in our experiment occur from the repetition/switching of both sensory modality and animal category. Yet, a systematic analysis of such trial sequence effects shows that the reported congruency effect is an independent phenomenon. Consequently, we discuss potential contributors to the semantic modulation of multisensory responses.
The moderating effect of fluid overload on the relationship between the augmentation index and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with CKD
Authors: Han Byoung-Geun , Pak Daewoo , Kim Jae-Seok , Sohn Yujin
Published: January 2024

Increased vascular stiffness, fluid overload, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) are common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We investigated the potential moderating effect of volume status in the relationship between arterial stiffness and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function in non-dialysis patients with stage 5 CKD. The radial augmentation index at a heart rate of 75 beats/min (rAIx75), overhydration/extracellular water (OH/ECW), and E/e´ ratio were concurrently measured in 152 consecutive patients. Each of these parameters reflects the status of vascular stiffness, fluid balance, and LV diastolic function, respectively. Hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated a significant interaction effect of OH/ECW for all patients (P = 0.015), even after controlling for confounders. In separate analyses, this interaction effect was particularly significant in women (P = 0.010), whereas its significance in patients with diabetes was marginally significant (P = 0.062). Our study suggested that fluid overload could be one of the more aggravating factors of LVDD in patients with CKD who have increased arterial stiffness. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct simultaneous assessments of vascular stiffness, fluid balance, and LV function, particularly in the specific groups mentioned earlier. Our results may serve as evidence applicable to patients with chronic heart failure.
Risk factors of unintentional piecemeal resection in endoscopic mucosal resection for colorectal polyps ≥ 10 mm
Authors: Ishikawa Tsubasa , Okimoto Kenichiro , Matsumura Tomoaki , Ogasawara Sadahisa , Fukuda Yoshihiro , Kitsukawa Yoshio , Yokoyama Yuya , Kanayama Kengo , Akizue Naoki , Iino Yotaro , Ohta Yuki , Ishigami Hideaki , Taida Takashi , Tsuchiya Shin , Saito Keiko , Kamezaki Hidehiro , Kobayashi Akitoshi , Kikuchi Yasuharu , Tada Minoru , Shiko Yuki , Ozawa Yoshihito , Kato Jun , Yamaguchi Taketo , Kato Naoya
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the lesion and endoscopist factors associated with unintentional endoscopic piecemeal mucosal resection (uniEPMR) of colorectal lesions ≥ 10 mm. uniEPMR was defined from the medical record as anything other than a preoperatively planned EPMR. Factors leading to uniEPMR were identified by retrospective univariate and multivariate analyses of lesions ≥ 10 mm (adenoma including sessile serrated lesion and carcinoma) that were treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) at three hospitals. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was conducted to determine the number of cases treated by each endoscopist. A learning curve (LC) was created for each lesion size based on the number of experienced cases and the percentage of uniEPMR. Of 2557 lesions, 327 lesions underwent uniEPMR. The recurrence rate of uniEPMR was 2.8%. Multivariate analysis showed that lesion diameter ≥ 30 mm (odds ratio 11.83, 95% confidence interval 6.80–20.60, p < 0.0001) was the most associated risk factor leading to uniEPMR. In the LC analysis, the proportion of uniEPMR decreased for lesion sizes of 10–19 mm until 160 cases. The proportion of uniEPMR decreased with the number of experienced cases in the 20–29 mm range, while there was no correlation between the number of experienced cases and the proportion of uniEPMR ≥ 30 mm. These results suggest that 160 cases seem to be the minimum number of cases needed to be proficient in en bloc EMR. Additionally, while lesion sizes of 10–29 mm are considered suitable for EMR, lesion sizes ≥ 30 mm are not applicable for en bloc EMR from the perspective of both lesion and endoscopist factors.
Leveraging opposition-based learning for solar photovoltaic model parameter estimation with exponential distribution optimization algorithm
Authors: Kullampalayam Murugaiyan Nandhini , Chandrasekaran Kumar , Manoharan Premkumar , Derebew Bizuwork
Published: January 2024

Given the multi-model and nonlinear characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) models, parameter extraction presents a challenging problem. This challenge is exacerbated by the propensity of conventional algorithms to get trapped in local optima due to the complex nature of the problem. Accurate parameter estimation, nonetheless, is crucial due to its significant impact on the PV system’s performance, influencing both current and energy production. While traditional methods have provided reasonable results for PV model variables, they often require extensive computational resources, which impacts precision and robustness and results in many fitness evaluations. To address this problem, this paper presents an improved algorithm for PV parameter extraction, leveraging the opposition-based exponential distribution optimizer (OBEDO). The OBEDO method, equipped with opposition-based learning, provides an enhanced exploration capability and efficient exploitation of the search space, helping to mitigate the risk of entrapment in local optima. The proposed OBEDO algorithm is rigorously verified against state-of-the-art algorithms across various PV models, including single-diode, double-diode, three-diode, and photovoltaic module models. Practical and statistical results reveal that the OBEDO performs better than other algorithms in estimating parameters, demonstrating superior convergence speed, reliability, and accuracy. Moreover, the performance of the proposed algorithm is assessed using several case studies, further reinforcing its effectiveness. Therefore, the OBEDO, with its advantages in terms of computational efficiency and robustness, emerges as a promising solution for photovoltaic model parameter identification, making a significant contribution to enhancing the performance of PV systems.
Optimistic framing increases responsible investment of investment professionals
Authors: Daugaard Dan , Kent Danielle , Servátka Maroš , Zhang Lyla
Published: January 2024

The global warming crisis is unlikely to abate while the world continues to collectively fund the extraction and burning of fossil fuels. Carbon divestment is urgently needed to ward off the impending climate emergency. Yet responsible investments still only account for a modest share of global assets. We conduct an incentivized artefactual field experiment to test whether framing divestment as a social norm, communicating it by a person with perceived credibility and expertise (a messenger), and highlighting optimistic attributes bolster responsible investment. Our subjects are investment professionals who have significant influence over the allocation of funds. We provide evidence that optimistic framing increases responsible investment. Assuming a comparable effect size, the observed increase would represent a $3.6 trillion USD global shift in asset allocations.
Debulking corneal biopsy with tectonic amniotic membrane transplantation in refractory clinically presumed fungal keratitis
Authors: Eleiwa Taher K. , Youssef Gehad H. , Elsaadani Ibrahim Abdelkhalik , Abdelrahman Samar N. , Khater Ahmed A.
Published: January 2024

The treatment of fungal keratitis (FK) is challenging due to the subacute indolent course, and initial misdiagnosis. In this retrospective case series, we highlight both the diagnostic and therapeutic roles of corneal biopsy together with amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) in patients with refractory clinically presumed FK. Debulking biopsy and tectonic AMT were performed during the initial presentation. Biopsy specimens were sent for KOH smears and cultures. After KOH smears confirmed the presence of fungal elements, topical voriconazole 1% was prescribed for the first 72 h then tailored according to the clinical response and the culture results. The outcome measures were complete resolution of infection and restoration of corneal integrity. Cases associated with culture proven bacterial keratitis were excluded. Twelve cases were included in the study. KOH smears confirmed the presence of fungal growth in all specimens. Cultures grew Aspergillus in 6/12 cases, sensitive to voriconazole (5/6) and amphotericin (3/6); Fusarium (4/12), sensitive to both voriconazole and amphotericin; and no growth in 2/12 cases. Amphotericin 0.15% eye drops were added to the 7 cases with proven sensitivity and to the remaining 2 culture negative cases. Gradual resolution of infection was seen in all cases after 35.6 ± 7.8 days. In FK, a debulking biopsy simultaneously with AMT help decrease the microbial load, suppress the inflammatory process, support the corneal integrity, confirm the presence of fungal pathogen.
Infrared-reflective ultrathin-metal-film-based transparent electrode with ultralow optical loss for high efficiency in solar cells
Authors: Perrakis George , Tasolamprou Anna C. , Kakavelakis George , Petridis Konstantinos , Graetzel Michael , Kenanakis George , Tzortzakis Stelios , Kafesaki Maria
Published: January 2024

In this work we study in-depth the antireflection and filtering properties of ultrathin-metal-film-based transparent electrodes (MTEs) integrated in thin-film solar cells. Based on numerical optimization of the MTE design and the experimental characterization of thin-film perovskite solar cell (PSC) samples, we show that reflection in the visible spectrum can be strongly suppressed, in contrast to common belief (due to the compact metal layer). The optical loss of the optimized electrode (~ 2.9%), composed of a low-resistivity metal and an insulator, is significantly lower than that of a conventional transparent conductive oxide (TCO ~ 6.3%), thanks to the very high transmission of visible light within the cell (> 91%) and low thickness (< 70 nm), whereas the reflection of infrared light (~ 70%) improves by > 370%. To assess the application potentials, integrated current density > 25 mA/cm2, power conversion efficiency > 20%, combined with vastly reduced device heat load by 177.1 W/m2 was achieved in state-of-the-art PSCs. Our study aims to set the basis for a novel interpretation of composite electrodes/structures, such as TCO–metal–TCO, dielectric–metal–dielectric or insulator–metal–insulator, and hyperbolic metamaterials, in high-efficiency optoelectronic devices, such as solar cells, semi-transparent, and concentrated systems, and other electro-optical components including smart windows, light-emitting diodes, and displays.
Multi scale-aware attention for pyramid convolution network on finger vein recognition
Authors: Zhang Huijie , Sun Weizhen , Lv Ling
Published: January 2024

In recent years, biometrics has been the most popular style of personal identification. The finger vein is an intrinsic and stable trait, and with the ability to detect liveness, it receives academic and industry attention. However, convolution neural networks (CNNs) based finger vein recognition generally can only cover a small input region by using small kernels. Hence, the performance is poor, facing low-quality finger vein images. It is a challenge to effectively use the critical feature of multi-scale for finger veins. In this article, we extract multi-scale features via pyramid convolution. We propose scale attention, namely, the scale-aware attention (SA) module, which enables dynamic adjustment of the weight of each scale to information aggregation. Utilize the complementation of different scale detail features to enhance the discriminativeness of extracted features, thus improving the finger vein recognition performance. In order to verify the present method’s efficiency, we carried out experiments on two public data sets and one internal data, and the wide range of experimental results proves the proposed method’s effectiveness.
Embedding and cross-sectioning as a sample preparation procedure for accurate and representative size and shape measurement of nanopowders
Authors: Mrkwitschka Paul , Rühle Bastian , Kuchenbecker Petra , Löhmann Oliver , Lindemann Franziska , Hodoroaba Vasile-Dan
Published: January 2024

Reliable measurement of the size of polydisperse, complex-shaped commercial nanopowders is a difficult but necessary task, e.g., for regulatory requirements and toxicity risk assessment. Suitable methods exist for the accurate characterization of the size of non-aggregated, stabilized, spherical and monodisperse nanoparticles. In contrast, industrial nanoscale powders usually require dedicated sample preparation procedures developed for the analysis method of choice. These nano-powders tend to agglomerate and/or aggregate, a behavior which in combination with an innate broad particle size distribution and irregular shape often significantly alters the achievable accuracy of the measured size parameters. The present study systematically tests two commercially available nanoscale powders using different sample preparation methods for correlative analysis by scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Brunauer–Emmet–Teller method and differential mobility analysis. One focus was set on the sample preparation by embedding nanoparticles in carbon-based hot-mounting resin. Literature on this topic is scarce and the accuracy of the data extracted from cross sections of these particles is unclearly stated. In this paper systematic simulations on the deviation of the size parameters of well-defined series of nanoparticles with different shapes from the nominal value were carried out and the contributing factors are discussed.
Identification of influential weather parameters and seasonal drought prediction in Bangladesh using machine learning algorithm
Authors: Al Mamun Md. Abdullah , Sarker Mou Rani , Sarkar Md Abdur Rouf , Roy Sujit Kumar , Nihad Sheikh Arafat Islam , McKenzie Andrew M. , Hossain Md. Ismail , Kabir Md. Shahjahan
Published: January 2024

Droughts pose a severe environmental risk in countries that rely heavily on agriculture, resulting in heightened levels of concern regarding food security and livelihood enhancement. Bangladesh is highly susceptible to environmental hazards, with droughts further exacerbating the precarious situation for its 170 million inhabitants. Therefore, we are endeavouring to highlight the identification of the relative importance of climatic attributes and the estimation of the seasonal intensity and frequency of droughts in Bangladesh. With a period of forty years (1981–2020) of weather data, sophisticated machine learning (ML) methods were employed to classify 35 agroclimatic regions into dry or wet conditions using nine weather parameters, as determined by the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). Out of 24 ML algorithms, the four best ML methods, ranger, bagEarth, support vector machine, and random forest (RF) have been identified for the prediction of multi-scale drought indices. The RF classifier and the Boruta algorithms shows that water balance, precipitation, maximum and minimum temperature have a higher influence on drought intensity and occurrence across Bangladesh. The trend of spatio-temporal analysis indicates, drought intensity has decreased over time, but return time has increased. There was significant variation in changing the spatial nature of drought intensity. Spatially, the drought intensity shifted from the northern to central and southern zones of Bangladesh, which had an adverse impact on crop production and the livelihood of rural and urban households. So, this precise study has important implications for the understanding of drought prediction and how to best mitigate its impacts. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for better collaboration between relevant stakeholders, such as policymakers, researchers, communities, and local actors, to develop effective adaptation strategies and increase monitoring of weather conditions for the meticulous management of droughts in Bangladesh.
Evaluating the effect of maternal non-communicable disease on adverse pregnancy outcomes and birthweight in Pakistan, a facility based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wainwright Esther , Sheikh Irfan , Qureshi Rahat , Yousuf Sana , Khan Raheela , Elmes Matthew
Published: January 2024

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) claim 74% of global lives, disproportionately affecting lower and middle-income countries like Pakistan. NCDs may increase the risk of preterm birth (PTB), caesarean section (CS), and low birthweight. This study aims to determine whether the high prevalence of NCDs in Pakistan play a role in the high rates of preterm births, and CS. This retrospective cohort study from Aga Khan University Hospital, Pakistan, investigated effects of pre-existing NCDs on pregnancy outcomes of 817 pregnant women. Medical records were used to generate odds ratios for the risk of PTB, labour outcome and birthweight in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, hypertension, asthma and thyroid disorders. Multinomial logistic regression and general linear models were used to adjust for confounding variables using IBM SPSS Statistics (v27). Type 2 diabetes significantly increased the risk of PTB and elective CS (both P < 0.05). Elective CS was significantly increased by hypertension and asthma (both, P < 0.05). Surprisingly, asthma halved the risk of PTB (P < 0.05), while type 1 diabetes significantly increased birthweight from 2832 to 3253g (P < 0.001). In conclusion, pre-existing NCDs increase the risk of negative pregnancy outcomes, including PTB, elective CS and birthweight. Asthma, however reduced PTB and justifies further investigation.
WNTA5-mediated miR-374a-5p regulates vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype transformation and M1 macrophage polarization impacting intracranial aneurysm progression
Authors: Li Zengshi , Huang Junqiang , Yang Lijian , Li Xi , Li Wei
Published: January 2024

miR-374a-5p expression and localization in intracranial aneurysm (IA) tissues were detected, and its correlation with vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and macrophage markers was analyzed. Using platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) induced VSMC model, elastase-induced IA rat model. Subsequently, miR-374a-5p was knocked down or overexpressed. We investigated the effects of miR-374a-5p on phenotypic conversion, and in vivo experiments were also carried out to verify the findings. The targeted relationship between miR-374a-5p and WNTA5 was analyzed. The effect of WNT5A inhibition on VSMC phenotypic transformation and THP-1-derived macrophage polarization was explored. Clinical studies have shown that miR-374a-5p was upregulated in IA patients. miR-374a-5p was negatively correlated with SM22α, α-SMA, CD206, and positively correlated with CD86. In vitro experiments showed that knocking down miR-374a-5p reversed the promotion of SM22α and α-SMA expression by PDGF-BB, while overexpression of miR-374a-5p had the opposite effect. In addition, knocking down miR-374a-5p also reversed the decrease in Calponin, TIMP3, TIMP4, and IL-10 levels caused by PDGF-BB, and further reduced the levels of MMP1, MMP3, MMP9, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. These findings were further validated in vivo. In IA rats, there were notable increases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, along with an elevated M1/M2 ratio and the occurrence of vascular lesions. However, these symptoms were improved after knocking down miR-374a-5p. Furthermore, miR-374a-5p could target the WNT signals (WNT2B, WNT3, and WNT5A). miR-374a-5p regulated the VSMC phenotypic conversion and M1 macrophage polarization by targeting WNT5A, thereby impacting the progression of IA.
Forest carbon removal potential and sustainable development in Japan
Authors: Zhang Bingqi , Imbulana Arachchi Janaki , Managi Shunsuke
Published: January 2024

Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and reducing emissions as a major carbon sink. However, its value in removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere is always underestimated in natural capital (NC) accounting and sustainability assessments. This study predicted Japan’s forest CO2 removal by afforestation and forest management and its monetary value until 2042 from national to gridded level, with statistical data and complementary satellite data products, and explored how that CO2 removal will contribute to sustainable development under the inclusive wealth (IW) framework. The results show that: (1) the annual CO2 removal by forests has the potential to offset 15.3% of the emission and increase NC by 6.8% in Japan, significantly contributing to carbon neutrality and IW growth; (2) the total CO2 removal in exiting forests will peak at around 2030 and then decrease, but expanding afforestation could offset that decrease in later years; (3) the spatial distribution patterns of IW and forest CO2 removal are opposite. This indicates a national carbon trading market could create new wealth for rural communities where vast forests exist, and then effectively balance the inequal urban–rural development in Japan. The explicit spatial information of this study could provide valuable information for differentiating policy priorities of forestry planning and sustainable development in different local communities.
Preliminary study of the effect of low-intensity focused ultrasound on postpartum uterine involution and breast pain in puerperal women: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wei Dongmei , Yue Jun , Meng Jian , Gao Jing , Yang Lei , Niu Xiaoyu , Wang Zhijian
Published: January 2024

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) therapy in facilitating fundus descent and relieving postpartum breast pain compared with sham treatment. A multicentre, randomised, sham-controlled, blinded trial was conducted. A cohort of 176 eligible participants, who had normal prenatal check-ups and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were recruited from three medical centres and subsequently randomized into either the LIFU or sham group. All participants received three treatment sessions, wherein LIFU signal was applied to the uterus and breast sites using coupling gel, with the absence of ultrasound signal output in the sham group. Fundal height measurement and breast pain score were performed after each treatment. The primary outcome, uterine involution, was presented by measuring the fundal height of the uterus. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score, as a secondary outcome, was used to assess breast pain and determine the correlation between breast pain and fundal height as the outcome simultaneously. All participants were randomly assigned to either the LIFU group (n = 88) or sham group (n = 88), with seven individuals not completing the treatment. Overall, a statistically significant difference was noted in the rate and index of fundus descent after each treatment. The rate and index of fundus descent showed greater significance following the second treatment (rate: 1.5 (1.0, 2.0) cm/d; index: 0.15 (0.1, 0.18), P < 0.001) and third treatment (rate: 1.67 (1.33, 2.0) cm/d; index: 0.26 (0.23, 0.3), P < 0.001) in the LIFU group. VAS scores, which were based on the continuous variables for the baseline, first, second, and third treatments in the LIFU group (2.0 (2.0, 3.0), 1.0 (0.0, 2.0), 0.0 (0.0, 1.0), and 0.0 (0.0, 0.0) points, respectively), and the sham group (2.0 (2.0, 2.0), 2.0 (1.0, 2.0), 2.0 (1.0, 3.0), and 3.0 (1.0, 3.0) points, respectively), showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups. Meanwhile, the discrepancies in VAS score classification variables between the two groups were statistically significant. After the third treatment, a notable correlation was observed between the VAS score decrease and fundus descent rate; the more the VAS score decreased, the faster was the fundal decline rate in the LIFU group. LIFU therapy is safe and effective, contributing to the acceleration of uterine involution and the relief of postpartum breast pain.

Trial ID The study has registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100049586) at 05/08/2021.
Evaluating the impacts of a large-scale voluntary REDD+ project in Sierra Leone
Authors: Malan Mandy , Carmenta Rachel , Gsottbauer Elisabeth , Hofman Paul , Kontoleon Andreas , Swinfield Tom , Voors Maarten
Published: January 2024

Carbon offsets from the REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation) framework to protect forests are expected to see a 100-fold increase in market value by 2050. However, independent causal impact evaluations are scarce and only a few studies assess benefits to communities themselves, a core objective of REDD+. Following a pre-analysis plan, we use a before-after-control-intervention (BACI) framework to evaluate the impact of a large-scale voluntary REDD+ project in Sierra Leone—the Gola project. We use a panel of both satellite images and household surveys to provide causal evidence of the impact of the project on local deforestation rates and socioeconomic indicators over the first 5 yr of its implementation. We find that REDD+ slowed deforestation by 30% relative to control communities while not changing economic wellbeing and conservation attitudes. We find suggestive evidence that the programme increased the value of alternative income sources, by shifting labour away from forest-dependent farming activities. A cost-to-carbon calculation shows that REDD+ led to 340,000 tCO2 in avoided emissions per year, with an estimated cost of US$1.12 per averted tCO2. Our study contributes to developing an evidence base for voluntary REDD+ projects and offers a robust approach to carry out BACI assessments.
ATF3 coordinates the survival and proliferation of cardiac macrophages and protects against ischemia–reperfusion injury
Authors: Shao Yihui , Li Yang , Liu Yan , Zhu Shuolin , Wu Jianing , Ma Ke , Li Guoqi , Huang Shan , Wen Haichu , Zhang Congcong , Ma Xin-liang , Li Ping , Du Jie , Li Yulin
Published: January 2024

Cardiac resident MerTK+ macrophages exert multiple protective roles after ischemic injury; however, the mechanisms regulating their fate are not fully understood. In the present study, we show that the GAS6-inducible transcription factor, activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), prevents apoptosis of MerTK+ macrophages after ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury by repressing the transcription of multiple genes involved in type I interferon expression (Ifih1 and Ifnb1) and apoptosis (Apaf1). Mice lacking ATF3 in cardiac macrophages or myeloid cells showed excessive loss of MerTK+ cardiac macrophages, poor angiogenesis and worse heart dysfunction after IR, which were rescued by the transfer of MerTK+ cardiac macrophages. GAS6 administration improved cardiac repair in an ATF3-dependent manner. Finally, we showed a negative association of GAS6 and ATF3 expression with the risk of major adverse cardiac events in patients with ischemic heart disease. These results indicate that the GAS6–ATF3 axis has a protective role against IR injury by regulating MerTK+ cardiac macrophage survival and/or proliferation.
Targeted multi-analyte UHPLC-MS/MS methodology for emerging contaminants in septic tank wastewater, sludge and receiving surface water
Authors: Wilschnack Maike , Homer Bess , Cartmell Elise , Yates Kyari , Petrie Bruce
Published: January 2024

First multi-analyte methodology for comprehensive assessment of emerging contaminants in liquid and solid matrices of septic tanks was developed.
Covalent immobilization of N-heterocyclic carbenes on pristine carbon substrates: from nanoscale characterization to bulk catalysis
Authors: Daelemans Brent , Bernaerts Sven , Eyley Samuel , Thielemans Wim , Dehaen Wim , De Feyter Steven
Published: January 2024

High-resolution on-surface characterization techniques are used to gain nanoscale insights in the production of covalently functionalized graphene nanoplatelets as bulk catalysts for benzoin condensation.
Boosting the effectiveness of UV filters and sunscreen formulations using photostable, non-toxic inorganic platelets
Authors: Chen Lina , Wang Junxin , Wu Xuwen , Coulthard Claire T. , Qian Yong , Chen Chunping , O’Hare Dermot
Published: January 2024

We have studied the size-dependent optical scattering of aqueous suspensions containing Mg2Al-LDH platelets, which exhibit high total- and side-scatterings.
4-Vinylbenzodioxinones as a new type of precursor for palladium-catalyzed (4+3) cycloaddition of azomethine imines
Authors: Tang Yi , Zhang Rulei , Dong Yujie , Yu Songcheng , Wu Yongjun , Xiao Yumei , Guo Hongchao
Published: January 2024

Benzo-fused cyclic carbonates were designed and synthesized as a novel type of precursor of π-allylpalladium zwitterionic intermediates.
Correction: Velocity map images from surface-hopping; reactive scattering of OH (2Σ+) + H2 (1Σ+g)
Authors: Robertson Christopher , Paterson Martin J.
Published: January 2024

Correction for ‘Velocity map images from surface-hopping; reactive scattering of OH (2Σ+) + H2 (1Σ+g)’ by Christopher Robertson and Martin J. Paterson, Chem. Commun., 2022, 58, 9092–9095, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2CC03368B.
Seeded growth of gold-based nanostructures regulated by controlled doping
Authors: Min Yuanyuan , Sun Haoyu , Zheng Yiqun
Published: January 2024

Recent advancements in regulating the seeded growth of gold-based nanocrystals through controlled doping are discussed. By fine-tuning the doping process, a diverse range of innovative nanostructures can be created.
Unravelling photoisomerization dynamics in a metastable-state photoacid
Authors: Ma Ying-Zhong , Premadasa Uvinduni I. , Bryantsev Vyacheslav S. , Miles Audrey R. , Ivanov Ilia N. , Elgattar Adnan , Liao Yi , Doughty Benjamin
Published: January 2024

Direct access to the trans–cis photoisomerization dynamics in a complex photoreaction cycle of an indazole metastable state photoacid is realized.
Electrostatically tunable interaction of CO2 with MgO surfaces and chemical switching: first-principles theory
Authors: Sen Arpita , Narsaria Ayush K. , Manae Meghna A. , Shetty Sharan , Waghmare Umesh V.
Published: January 2024

Using DFT, we demonstrate external electric field assisted CO2 capture on different MgO facets, leading to carbonate formation in strongly adsorbed cases, and in some cases even CO2 reduction to CO on polar MgO(111) facet.
TiB4 and SrB8 monolayers: high capacity and zero strain-like anode materials for Li/Na/K/Ca ion batteries
Authors: Wang Yunxin , Liang Sisi , Tian Juncheng , Duan Huixian , Lv Ying , Wan Lijia , Huang Chunlai , Wu Musheng , Ouyang Chuying , Hu Junping
Published: January 2024

Our first-principles calculations confirm that TiB4 and SrB8 monolayers have excellent properties as anode materials for Li/Na/K/Ca ion batteries, showing high capacity, good conductivity, low migration barriers, low open-circuit voltage, and zero-strain like behavior.
Comprehensive understanding of electron mobility and superior performance in sub-10 nm DG ML tetrahex-GeC2 n-type MOSFETs
Authors: Xu Yuehua , Li Daqing , Sun He , Xu Haowen , Li Pengfei
Published: January 2024

ML tetrahex-GeC2 shows promising electron mobility. Its sub-10 nm MOSFETs show desirable on-state currents, subthreshold swings, delay time, and power dissipation.
Nitrogen adsorption on Nb2C6H4+ cations: the important role of benzyne (ortho-C6H4)
Authors: Zhang Feng-Xiang , Zhang Yi-Heng , Wang Ming , Ma Jia-Bi
Published: January 2024

Compared with the naked Nb2+, the Nb2C6H4+ cation, containing organic ligand ortho-C6H4, shows higher reactivity towards N2. This study indicates that organic ligands can be crucial to N2 adsorption and activation.
Dual-band terahertz chiral metasurface absorber with enhanced circular dichroism based on temperature-tunable InSb for sensing applications
Authors: Rong Chenguang , Cai Bin , Cheng Yongzhi , Chen Fu , Luo Hui , Li Xiangcheng
Published: January 2024

Circular dichroism (CD) in terahertz (THz) regions has been widely used in biomonitoring, analytical chemistry, communication sensing, and other fields.
A solid-state NMR method for characterization of pharmaceutical eutectics
Authors: Hareendran Chaithanya , Shaligram Parth S. , Gonnade Rajesh , Ajithkumar T. G.
Published: January 2024

2D 1H-1H double quantum single quantum (DQSQ) correlation SSNMR experiment is demonstrated which can confirm the formation of pharmaceutical eutectics for which there are no techniques other than differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).
The role of pressure on lattice thermal conductivity and its related thermodynamical parameters in In0.53Ga0.47As nanofilms
Authors: Rauf N. A. , Omar M. S.
Published: January 2024

LTC of In0.53Ga0.47As alloy nanofilms and bulk dependent on temperature under hydrostatic pressure from 0 to 11 GPa for (a) 10 nm, (b) 70 nm, with experimental data for nanofilm thicknesses obtained from Ref. 5, and (c) The dependence of (ΔLTC/LTC)P on nanofilm thickness at 300 K.
A molecular descriptor of a shallow potential energy surface for the ground state to achieve narrowband thermally activated delayed fluorescence emission
Authors: Zhao Jiaqiang , Liu Huanling , Fan Jianzhong , Mu Qingfang
Published: January 2024

A wise strategy to achieve narrowband thermally activated delayed fluorescence emission by constructing a shallow potential energy surface for the ground state is theoretically proved and proposed.
Solar CO2 reduction using a molecular Re(i) catalyst grafted on SiO2via amide and alkyl amine linkages
Authors: Fenton Thomas , Ahmad Esraa , Li Gonghu
Published: January 2024

Local basicity of the amine group led to formation of a Re(i)-OH species and stabilization of a Re(i)-carboxylato species.
Mitochondria-targeted neutral and cationic iridium(iii) anticancer complexes chelating simple hybrid sp2-N/sp3-N donor ligands
Authors: Li Pengwei , Guo Lihua , Li Jiaxing , Yang Zhihao , Fu Hanxiu , Lai Kangning , Dong Heqian , Fan Chunyan , Liu Zhe
Published: January 2024

A series of neutral and cationic amine–imine cyclometalated iridium(iii) complexes with hybrid sp2-N/sp3-N chelating donors were synthesized. The anticancer efficacy of these complexes was predominantly attributed to the redox mechanism.
Rb8Nb10Ge6O41: a new niobium-germanate crystal featuring unique one-dimensional [Nb7O30]∞ chains and wide mid-IR transparency
Authors: Chai Jing , She Yuheng , Jiao Jinmiao , Li Lili , Ye Ning , Hu Zhanggui , Wu Yicheng , Li Conggang
Published: January 2024

A novel niobium germanate Rb8Nb10Ge6O41 was prepared through spontaneous crystallization, and it exhibits exceptional thermal stability and a wide transparency window of 0.306–6.25 μm with a large band gap of 3.78 eV.
Valorization of fast-growing Paulownia wood to green chemicals and green hydrogen
Authors: Lee Li Quan , Zhao Hu , Ge Junyu , Zhou Yan , Li Hong
Published: January 2024

Upcycling fast-growing Paulownia waste: an efficient and eco-friendly pretreatment-electrochemical process for the generation of green chemicals and green hydrogen.
In situ encapsulation of ultrasmall MoO3 nanoparticles into beta zeolite for oxidative desulfurization
Authors: Bo Songcheng , Lin Haoyi , Zhang Jiaxing , Liao Weiping , Yang Kaixuan , Su Ting , Lü Hongying , Zhu Zhiguo
Published: January 2024

The synthesized beta zeolite-encapsulated MoO3 catalyst exhibits unique catalytic activity and reusability in oxidative desulfurization owing to the ultrasmall size of MoO3 and confinement effect.
A deep spectral prediction network to quantitatively determine heavy metal elements in soil by X-ray fluorescence
Authors: Zhang Qinglun , Li Fusheng , Yang Wanqi
Published: January 2024

A deep spectral prediction network is proposed for the determination of soil heavy metal element concentrations.
Recent advances of tryptanthrin and its derivatives as potential anticancer agents
Authors: Zhou Xiaofeng
Published: January 2024

Tryptanthrin with a broad spectrum of biological activities can be not only decorated by various functional groups, but also coordinated by bio-metal ions, generating varied tryptanthrin derivatives as potential anticancer agents with low toxicity.
Developing a cube-like nanocomposite integrated into a polymer network as a highly porous and effective electrospun nanofiber for extracting trace quantities of opioid and analgesic drugs in biological fluids
Authors: Hosseini Fatemeh Sadat , Kharazmi Farbod , Davarani Saied Saeed Hosseiny , Ebrahimzadeh Homeira
Published: January 2024

The incorporation of the synthesized MOF Zn–Ni–Co OH/MWCNT into a polymer network of PAN using an electrospun device for the extraction of analgesic drugs in biological fluids prior to identification by a HPLC-UV device.
Modulation of supported Ni catalysts with phosphorus for the hydrogenation of diethyl oxalate to ethyl glycolate
Authors: Xue Qihong , Jiang Zhikui , Wang Chao , Kan Xian , Wang Jiaming , Chen Jiangang
Published: January 2024

The presence of P affects the surface metal states of catalysts, which, in turn, has an effect on their substrate adsorption states and ultimately their catalytic performance.
A flexible solid-state electrolyte based on comb-like PEG-functionalized covalent organic frameworks for lithium metal batteries
Authors: Tan Xueling , Tong Yongfen , Yang Jiansong , Du Xiaoyu , Yang Anyi , Zhang Aiqin , Xu Qiuhua
Published: January 2024

A composite polymer solid electrolyte was prepared with a fast highway for Li+ conduction based on the robust network of covalent organic framework, which shows good stability and superior electrochemistry performance.
Elucidating the redox activity of cobalt-1,2,3,4-cyclopentane-tetracarboxylic acid and 1,2,4,5-benzene-tetracarboxylic acid-based metal–organic frameworks for a hybrid supercapacitor
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Zahir , Zakir Ayesha , Shaheen Misbah , Khizar Asma , Yusuf Kareem , Iqbal Muhammad Javaid , Ahmad Zubair , Sharif Shahzad
Published: January 2024

The development of electrode materials with extraordinary energy densities or high power densities has experienced a spectacular upsurge because of significant advances in energy storage technology.