bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical‐Dynamic‐Driven AI‐Synthetic Precipitation Nowcasting Using Task‐Segmented Generative Model
Authors: Wang Rui , Fung Jimmy C. H. , Lau Alexis K. H.
Published: November 2023

Precise and timely rainfall nowcasting plays a critical role in ensuring public safety amid disasters triggered by heavy precipitation. While deep‐learning models have exhibited superior performance over traditional nowcasting methods in recent years, their efficacy is still hampered by limited forecasting skill, insufficient training data, and escalating blurriness in forecasts. To address these challenges, we present the Synthetic‐data Task‐segmented Generative Model (STGM), an innovative physical‐dynamic‐driven heavy rainfall nowcasting model. The STGM encompasses three key components: the Long Video Generation (LVG) model generating synthetic radar data from observed radar images and data provided by the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, MaskPredNet predicting the spatial coverage of various rainfall intensities, and SPADE determining rainfall intensity based on the coverage provided by MaskPredNet. The STGM has demonstrated promising skill for precipitation forecasts for up to six hours, and significantly reduce the blurriness of predicted images, thus showcasing advances in rainfall nowcasting.
Responses of Phytoplankton Communities to the Effect of Both River Plume and Coastal Upwelling
Authors: Tong Zhuyin , Ma Lingqi , Cai Shujie , Wang Lei , Xiao Wupeng , Huang Bangqin , Laws Edward A.
Published: November 2023

River plumes and coastal upwelling systems are both nutrient‐abundant habitats compared to the open ocean, and the mechanisms that structure the phytoplankton community when these occur together are unclear. In this study we investigated the dynamics and drivers of phytoplankton biomass and community composition in the Pearl River plume‐coastal upwelling system on the northern South China Sea shelf during summer. We found that phytoplankton biomass was lower in the plume than in upwelled water. Diatoms were the only dominant group in the upwelled water. In contrast, diatoms and Synechococcus were co‐dominant in the plume, and the negative correlation between the proportions of these two groups indicated that they occupied distinct niches. The lower phytoplankton biomass in plume waters was due to nutrient limitation, and there was a transition from limitation by phosphorus to limitation by nitrogen in the plume along its path. This bottom‐up control limited only diatoms, whereas Synechococcus was limited mainly by top‐down control via microzooplankton grazing. This difference led to niche differentiation of the dominant phytoplankton groups in the plume‐upwelling system. This discovery of niche differentiation enhances understanding of food web structure and will facilitate modeling of marine biogeochemical cycles.
Lactobacillus plantarum ameliorates NASH-related inflammation by upregulating l-arginine production
Authors: Kim Dong Yun , Park Jun Yong , Gee Heon Yung
Published: November 2023

Lactobacillus is a probiotic with therapeutic potential for several diseases, including liver disease. However, the therapeutic effect of L. plantarum against nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and its underlying mechanisms remain unelucidated. Therefore, we delineated the L. plantarum-mediated NASH regulation in a mouse model to understand its therapeutic effect. We used a choline-deficient high-fat diet (CD-HFD)-induced murine model that recapitulated the critical features of human metabolic syndrome and investigated the effect of L. plantarum on NASH pathogenesis using transcriptomic, metagenomic, and immunohistochemistry analyses. Validation experiments were performed using liver organoids and a murine model fed a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet. L. plantarum treatment in mice significantly decreased liver inflammation and improved metabolic phenotypes, such as insulin tolerance and the hepatic lipid content, compared with those in the vehicle group. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that L. plantarum treatment significantly downregulated inflammation-related pathways. Shotgun metagenomic analysis revealed that L-arginine biosynthesis-related microbial genes were significantly upregulated in the L. plantarum group. We also confirmed the elevated arginine levels in the serum of the L. plantarum group. We further used liver organoids and mice fed an MCD diet to demonstrate that L-arginine alone was sufficient to alleviate liver inflammation. Our data revealed a novel and counterintuitive therapeutic effect of L. plantarum on alleviating NASH-related liver inflammation by increasing circulating L-arginine.
Angiotensin receptor blockers, but not angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, inhibit abnormal bone changes in spondyloarthritis
Authors: Choi Jin Sun , Kim Ji-Young , Ahn Min-Joo , Jang Hanbit , Song Seungtaek , Choi Sung Hoon , Park Ye-Soo , Jo Sungsin , Kim Tae-Hwan , Shim Seung Cheol
Published: November 2023

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that results in bone ankylosis. The tissue renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is an emerging pathway potentially implicated in SpA-associated bone changes. The aim of the present study was to determine the mechanisms underlying this relationship. Sakaguchi (SKG) mice injected with curdlan (SKGc), animal models for SpA, were treated with RAS modulators, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis). Disease activity was assessed using clinical scores and computed tomography scans. Mouse primary bone marrow monocytes (BMMs), osteoblast (OB) progenitor cells, peripheral blood monocytes (PBMCs), and bone-derived cells (BdCs) from patients with radiographic axial SpA (r-axSpA) were used to investigate the role of RAS in SpA pathogenesis. The expression of RAS components was significantly increased in SKGc mouse joints, and ARBs significantly reduced erosion and systemic bone loss, whereas ACEis did not. Osteoclast (OC) differentiation from primary BMMs, mediated by TRAF6, was inhibited by ARBs but promoted by ACEis; the modulators also exerted opposite effects on OB differentiation. Expression of RAS molecules was higher in PBMCs and BdCs of patients with r-axSpA than in control participants. ARBs inhibited OB differentiation in the BdCs of patients with r-axSpA, whereas ACEis did not. Neither ARBs nor ACEis affected OB differentiation in the control participants. In SpA, a condition characterized by RAS overexpression, ARBs, but not ACEis, inhibited OC and OB differentiation and bone progression. The findings should be taken into account when treating patients with SpA using RAS modulators.
CD8 T-cell subsets: heterogeneity, functions, and therapeutic potential
Authors: Koh Choong-Hyun , Lee Suyoung , Kwak Minkyeong , Kim Byung-Seok , Chung Yeonseok
Published: November 2023

CD8 T cells play crucial roles in immune surveillance and defense against infections and cancer. After encountering antigenic stimulation, naïve CD8 T cells differentiate and acquire effector functions, enabling them to eliminate infected or malignant cells. Traditionally, cytotoxic T cells, characterized by their ability to produce effector cytokines and release cytotoxic granules to directly kill target cells, have been recognized as the constituents of the predominant effector T-cell subset. However, emerging evidence suggests distinct subsets of effector CD8 T cells that each exhibit unique effector functions and therapeutic potential. This review highlights recent advancements in our understanding of CD8 T-cell subsets and the contributions of these cells to various disease pathologies. Understanding the diverse roles and functions of effector CD8 T-cell subsets is crucial to discern the complex dynamics of immune responses in different disease settings. Furthermore, the development of immunotherapeutic approaches that specifically target and regulate the function of distinct CD8 T-cell subsets holds great promise for precision medicine.
IRE1α protects against osteoarthritis by regulating progranulin-dependent XBP1 splicing and collagen homeostasis
Authors: Liang Li , Zhang Fengmei , Feng Naibo , Kuang Biao , Fan Mengtian , Chen Cheng , Pan Yiming , Zhou Pengfei , Geng Nana , Li Xingyue , Xian Menglin , Deng Lin , Li Xiaoli , Kuang Liang , Luo Fengtao , Tan Qiaoyan , Xie Yangli , Guo Fengjin
Published: November 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a full-joint, multifactorial, degenerative and inflammatory disease that seriously affects the quality of life of patients due to its disabling and pain-causing properties. ER stress has been reported to be closely related to the progression of OA. The inositol-requiring enzyme 1α/X-box-binding protein-1 spliced (IRE1α/XBP1s) pathway, which is highly expressed in the chondrocytes of OA patients, promotes the degradation and refolding of abnormal proteins during ER stress and maintains the stability of the ER environment of chondrocytes, but its function and the underlying mechanisms of how it contributes to the progression of OA remain unclear. This study investigates the role of IRE1α/ERN1 in OA. Specific deficiency of ERN1 in chondrocytes spontaneously resulted in OA-like cartilage destruction and accelerated OA progression in a surgically induced arthritis model. Local delivery of AdERN1 relieved degradation of the cartilage matrix and prevented OA development in an ACLT-mediated model. Mechanistically, progranulin (PGRN), an intracellular chaperone, binds to IRE1α, promoting its phosphorylation and splicing of XBP1u to generate XBP1s. XBP1s protects articular cartilage through TNF-α/ERK1/2 signaling and further maintains collagen homeostasis by regulating type II collagen expression. The chondroprotective effect of IRE1α/ERN1 is dependent on PGRN and XBP1s splicing. ERN1 deficiency accelerated cartilage degeneration in OA by reducing PGRN expression and XBP1s splicing, subsequently decreasing collagen II expression and triggering collagen structural abnormalities and an imbalance in collagen homeostasis. This study provides new insights into OA pathogenesis and the UPR and suggests that IRE1α/ERN1 may serve as a potential target for the treatment of joint degenerative diseases, including OA.
Cancer signature ensemble integrating cfDNA methylation, copy number, and fragmentation facilitates multi-cancer early detection
Authors: Kim Su Yeon , Jeong Seongmun , Lee Wookjae , Jeon Yujin , Kim Yong-Jin , Park Seowoo , Lee Dongin , Go Dayoung , Song Sang-Hyun , Lee Sanghoo , Woo Hyun Goo , Yoon Jung-Ki , Park Young Sik , Kim Young Tae , Lee Se-Hoon , Kim Kwang Hyun , Lim Yoojoo , Kim Jin-Soo , Kim Hwang-Phill , Bang Duhee , Kim Tae-You
Published: November 2023

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) sequencing has demonstrated great potential for early cancer detection. However, most large-scale studies have focused only on either targeted methylation sites or whole-genome sequencing, limiting comprehensive analysis that integrates both epigenetic and genetic signatures. In this study, we present a platform that enables simultaneous analysis of whole-genome methylation, copy number, and fragmentomic patterns of cfDNA in a single assay. Using a total of 950 plasma (361 healthy and 589 cancer) and 240 tissue samples, we demonstrate that a multifeature cancer signature ensemble (CSE) classifier integrating all features outperforms single-feature classifiers. At 95.2% specificity, the cancer detection sensitivity with methylation, copy number, and fragmentomic models was 77.2%, 61.4%, and 60.5%, respectively, but sensitivity was significantly increased to 88.9% with the CSE classifier (p value < 0.0001). For tissue of origin, the CSE classifier enhanced the accuracy beyond the methylation classifier, from 74.3% to 76.4%. Overall, this work proves the utility of a signature ensemble integrating epigenetic and genetic information for accurate cancer detection.
Filamentous virus-like particles are present in coral dinoflagellates across genera and ocean basins
Authors: Howe-Kerr Lauren I , Knochel Anna M , Meyer Matthew D , Sims Jordan A , Karrick Carly E , Grupstra Carsten G B , Veglia Alex J , Thurber Andrew R , Vega Thurber Rebecca L , Correa Adrienne M S
Published: November 2023

Filamentous viruses are hypothesized to play a role in stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) through infection of the endosymbiotic dinoflagellates (Family Symbiodiniaceae) of corals. To evaluate this hypothesis, it is critical to understand the global distribution of filamentous virus infections across the genetic diversity of Symbiodiniaceae hosts. Using transmission electron microscopy, we demonstrate that filamentous virus-like particles (VLPs) are present in over 60% of Symbiodiniaceae cells (genus Cladocopium) within Pacific corals (Acropora hyacinthus, Porites c.f. lobata); these VLPs are more prevalent in Symbiodiniaceae of in situ colonies experiencing heat stress. Symbiodiniaceae expelled from A. hyacinthus also contain filamentous VLPs, and these cells are more degraded than their in hospite counterparts. Similar to VLPs reported from SCTLD-affected Caribbean reefs, VLPs range from ~150 to 1500 nm in length and 16–37 nm in diameter and appear to constitute various stages in a replication cycle. Finally, we demonstrate that SCTLD-affected corals containing filamentous VLPs are dominated by diverse Symbiodiniaceae lineages from the genera Breviolum, Cladocopium, and Durusdinium. Although this study cannot definitively confirm or refute the role of filamentous VLPs in SCTLD, it demonstrates that filamentous VLPs are not solely observed in SCTLD-affected corals or reef regions, nor are they solely associated with corals dominated by members of a particular Symbiodiniaceae genus. We hypothesize that filamentous viruses are a widespread, common group that infects Symbiodiniaceae. Genomic characterization of these viruses and empirical tests of the impacts of filamentous virus infection on Symbiodiniaceae and coral colonies should be prioritized.
Relationship of Klotho with cognition and dementia: Results from the NHANES 2011–2014 and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wu Yue , Lei Shaoyuan , Li Dongxiao , Li Zhongzhong , Zhang Yingzhen , Guo Yansu
Published: November 2023

The relationships of Klotho levels with cognition and dementia are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the association between Klotho levels and cognitive function and to determine causality between Klotho and dementia using Mendelian randomization (MR). Based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014, this study consisted of 1875 older adults aged 60–79 years. Cognitive function was assessed by the digit symbol substitution test (DSST). We performed weighted multivariable-adjusted linear regression to assess the association between Klotho concentrations and cognitive function. Then, 2-sample MR was conducted to assess the causal relationship between Klotho and dementia. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary analysis. We observed a positive association between serum Klotho concentrations and the results of the Digit Symbol Substitution test (DSST) (T2: β 2.16, 95% CI: 0.30–4.01, P = 0.03, T3: β 2.48, 95% CI: 0.38–4.57, P = 0.02) after adjusting for the covariates. Moreover, there was also a potential nonlinear relationship between Klotho and DSST. The IVW method showed that genetically predicted high Klotho levels were not significantly associate with any type of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.96–1.10, P = 0.46), vascular dementia (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.87–1.25, P = 0.66), frontotemporal dementia (OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.47–1.14, P = 0.16), or dementia with Lewy bodies (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.87–1.23, P = 0.73). In the cross-sectional observational study, Klotho and cognitive function were significantly correlated; however, findings from MR studies did not indicate a causal relationship between Klotho and dementia.
METTL3-mediated m6A methylation of C1qA regulates the Rituximab resistance of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cells
Authors: Li Junping , Zhu Zhigang , Zhu Yuan , Li Jinqing , Li Kangbao , Zhong Weijie
Published: November 2023

Rituximab has been incorporated into the standard treatment regimen for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and induces the death of tumor cells via complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Unfortunately, the resistance of DLBCL cells to Rituximab limits its clinical usefulness. It remains unclear whether the complement system is related to Rituximab resistance in DLBCL. A Rituximab-resistant DLBCL cell line (Farage/R) was generated under the stress of Rituximab. Constituent proteins of the complement system in wild-type Farage cells (Farage/S) and Farage/R cells were analyzed by qPCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. In vitro and in vivo knockdown and overexpression studies confirmed that the complement 1Q subcomponent A chain (C1qA) was a regulator of Rituximab resistance. Finally, the mechanism by which C1qA is regulated by m6A methylation was explored. The reader and writer were identified by pull-down studies and RIP-qPCR. Activity of the complement system in Farage/R cells was suppressed. C1qA expression was reduced in Farage/R cells due to post-transcriptional regulation. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo results showed that C1qA knockdown in Farage/S cells decreased their sensitivity to Rituximab, and C1qA overexpression in Farage/R cells attenuated the Rituximab resistance of those cells. Moreover, METTL3 and YTHDF2 were proven to be the reader and writer for m6A methylation of C1qA, respectively. Knockdown of METTL3 or YTHDF2 in Farage/R cells up-regulated C1qA expression and reduced their resistance to Rituximab. In summary, the aberrant downregulation of C1qA was related to Rituximab resistance in DLBCL cells, and C1qA was found to be regulated by METTL3- and YTHDF2-mediated m6A methylation. Enhancing the response of the complement system via regulation of C1qA might be an effective strategy for inhibiting Rituximab resistance in DLBCL.
Effects of socioeconomic status and race on survival and treatment in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Puthanmadhom Narayanan Susrutha , Ren Dianxu , Oesterreich Steffi , Lee Adrian V. , Rosenzweig Margaret Q. , Brufsky Adam M.
Published: November 2023

Race and socioeconomic factors affect outcomes in breast cancer. We aimed to assess the effect of race and neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) on overall survival and treatment patterns in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). This is a retrospective cohort study involving patients (N = 1246) with distant breast cancer metastases diagnosed at UPMC Magee Women’s Breast Cancer Clinic from 2000–2017. Overall survival and treatment patterns were compared between races (Blacks and whites) and SES groups (defined using Area Deprivation Index). Low SES, but not tumor characteristics, was associated with Black race (P < 0.001) in the study population. Low SES (Median [Interquartile Range, IQR] survival 2.3[2.2–2.5] years vs high SES 2.7[2.5–3.1] years,P = 0.01) and Black race (Median [IQR] survival 1.8[1.3–2.3] years, vs white 2.5[2.3–2.7] yearsP = 0.008) separately were associated with worse overall survival in patients with MBC. In the Cox Proportional Hazard model with SES, race, age, subtype, number of metastases, visceral metastasis, and year of diagnosis as covariates, low SES (Hazard ratio 1.19[1.04–1.35],P = 0.01), but not Black race (Hazard ratio 1.19[0.96–1.49],P = 0.12), independently predicted overall survival in MBC. Moreover, patients from low SES neighborhoods and Black race received fewer lines of chemotherapy than high SES and whites. In conclusion, low neighborhood SES is associated with worse outcomes in patients with MBC. Poor outcomes in Black patients with MBC, at least in part is driven by socioeconomic factors. Future studies should delineate the interplay between neighborhood SES, race, and their effects on tumor biology in MBC.
Efficacy and safety in mice of repeated, lifelong administration of an ANGPTL3 vaccine
Authors: Fukami Hirotaka , Morinaga Jun , Nakagami Hironori , Hayashi Hiroki , Okadome Yusuke , Matsunaga Eiji , Kadomatsu Tsuyoshi , Horiguchi Haruki , Sato Michio , Sugizaki Taichi , Miyata Keishi , Torigoe Daisuke , Mukoyama Masashi , Morishita Ryuichi , Oike Yuichi
Published: November 2023

Previously, we reported that an ANGPTL3 vaccine is a hopeful therapeutic option against dyslipidemia. In our current study, we assess durability and booster effects of that vaccine over a period representing a mouse’s lifespan. The vaccine remained effective for over one year, and booster vaccination maintained suppression of circulating triglyceride levels thereafter without major adverse effects on lungs, kidneys, or liver, suggesting vaccine efficacy and safety.
Efficient removal of aromatic pollutants via catalytic wet peroxide oxidation over synthetic anisotropic ilmenite/carbon nanocomposites
Authors: Guo Sheng , Huang Ran , Yuan Jia , Chen Rong , Chen Fengxi
Published: November 2023

As one of the most common ferrous (Fe2+)-containing oxide minerals in the Earth’s crust, ilmenite (FeTiO3) is a potential low-cost heterogeneous Fenton-like catalyst for organic wastewater treatment via catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO). However, it suffers from low activity and long induction time. Herein anisotropic FeTiO3/C nanocomposite with rich Fe2+ ions on large surface area of 159.0 m2 g−1 (surface Fe/Ti and Fe2+/Fe3+ ratios were respectively 2.1 and 2.0) was prepared via cetyltrimethylammonium (CTA+)-assisted sol-gel synthesis. CTA+ modulated the growth of FeTiO3 nanoparticles with more exposed metallic sites by preferential adsorption on its (104) plane via electrostatic attraction, provided the carbon source and facilitated the generation of more Fe2+ ions at the interface of FeTiO3/C via carbothermal reduction of FeTiO3. FeTiO3/C efficiently catalyzed CWPO removal of six aromatic pollutants with different charges (25 mg L−1 each) at 25 oC and pH 3.0 without an induction period owing to rich Fe2+ content on neutral surface (pHpzc ~3.3)—three dye solutions completely decolorized in 1 h and three antibiotics degraded by >90% in 3 h. Reusability of FeTiO3/C was demonstrated with cationic rhodamine B and anionic orange G dyes in five consecutive runs. Scavenging tests and spin-trapping EPR spectra confirmed the generation of dominant ·OH and minor O2•− species for organic degradation via catalytic decomposition of H2O2 on FeTiO3/C as a heterogeneous Fenton-like catalyst.
Structure of the native myosin filament in the relaxed cardiac sarcomere
Authors: Tamborrini Davide , Wang Zhexin , Wagner Thorsten , Tacke Sebastian , Stabrin Markus , Grange Michael , Kho Ay Lin , Rees Martin , Bennett Pauline , Gautel Mathias , Raunser Stefan
Published: November 2023

The thick filament is a key component of sarcomeres, the basic units of striated muscle1. Alterations in thick filament proteins are associated with familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other heart and muscle diseases2. Despite the central importance of the thick filament, its molecular organization remains unclear. Here we present the molecular architecture of native cardiac sarcomeres in the relaxed state, determined by cryo-electron tomography. Our reconstruction of the thick filament reveals the three-dimensional organization of myosin, titin and myosin-binding protein C (MyBP-C). The arrangement of myosin molecules is dependent on their position along the filament, suggesting specialized capacities in terms of strain susceptibility and force generation. Three pairs of titin-α and titin-β chains run axially along the filament, intertwining with myosin tails and probably orchestrating the length-dependent activation of the sarcomere. Notably, whereas the three titin-α chains run along the entire length of the thick filament, titin-β chains do not. The structure also demonstrates that MyBP-C bridges thin and thick filaments, with its carboxy-terminal region binding to the myosin tails and directly stabilizing the OFF state of the myosin heads in an unforeseen manner. These results provide a foundation for future research investigating muscle disorders involving sarcomeric components.
Genome-wide epigenetic modifications in sports horses during training as an adaptation phenomenon
Authors: Cappelli Katia , Mecocci Samanta , Porceddu Andrea , Albertini Emidio , Giontella Andrea , Miglio Arianna , Silvestrelli Maurizio , Verini Supplizi Andrea , Marconi Gianpiero , Capomaccio Stefano
Published: November 2023

With his bicentennial breeding history based on athletic performance, the Thoroughbred horse can be considered the equine sport breed. Although genomic and transcriptomic tools and knowledge are at the state of the art in equine species, the epigenome and its modifications in response to environmental stimuli, such as training, are less studied. One of the major epigenetic modifications is cytosine methylation at 5′ of DNA molecules. This crucial biochemical modification directly mediates biological processes and, to some extent, determines the organisms' phenotypic plasticity. Exercise indeed affects the epigenomic state, both in humans and in horses. In this study, we highlight, with a genome-wide analysis of methylation, how the adaptation to training in the Thoroughbred can modify the methylation pattern throughout the genome. Twenty untrained horses, kept under the same environmental conditions and sprint training regimen, were recruited, collecting peripheral blood at the start of the training and after 30 and 90 days. Extracted leukocyte DNA was analyzed with the methylation content sensitive enzyme ddRAD (MCSeEd) technique for the first time applied to animal cells. Approximately one thousand differently methylated genomic regions (DMRs) and nearby genes were called, revealing that methylation changes can be found in a large part of the genome and, therefore, referable to the physiological adaptation to training. Functional analysis via GO enrichment was also performed. We observed significant differences in methylation patterns throughout the training stages: we hypothesize that the methylation profile of some genes can be affected early by training, while others require a more persistent stimulus.
A smartphone- and wearable-based biomarker for the estimation of unipolar depression severity
Authors: Zhuparris Ahnjili , Maleki Ghobad , van Londen Liesbeth , Koopmans Ingrid , Aalten Vincent , Yocarini Iris E. , Exadaktylos Vasileios , van Hemert Albert , Cohen Adam , Gal Pim , Doll Robert-Jan , Groeneveld Geert Jan , Jacobs Gabriël , Kraaij Wessel
Published: November 2023

Drug development for mood disorders can greatly benefit from the development of robust, reliable, and objective biomarkers. The incorporation of smartphones and wearable devices in clinical trials provide a unique opportunity to monitor behavior in a non-invasive manner. The objective of this study is to identify the correlations between remotely monitored self-reported assessments and objectively measured activities with depression severity assessments often applied in clinical trials. 30 unipolar depressed patients and 29 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Each participant’s daily physiological, physical, and social activity were monitored using a smartphone-based application (CHDR MORE™) for 3 weeks continuously. Self-reported depression anxiety stress scale-21 (DASS-21) and positive and negative affect schedule (PANAS) were administered via smartphone weekly and daily respectively. The structured interview guide for the Hamilton depression scale and inventory of depressive symptomatology–clinical rated (SIGHD-IDSC) was administered in-clinic weekly. Nested cross-validated linear mixed-effects models were used to identify the correlation between the CHDR MORE™ features with the weekly in-clinic SIGHD-IDSC scores. The SIGHD-IDSC regression model demonstrated an explained variance (R2) of 0.80, and a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of ± 15 points. The SIGHD-IDSC total scores were positively correlated with the DASS and mean steps-per-minute, and negatively correlated with the travel duration. Unobtrusive, remotely monitored behavior and self-reported outcomes are correlated with depression severity. While these features cannot replace the SIGHD-IDSC for estimating depression severity, it can serve as a complementary approach for assessing depression and drug effects outside the clinic.
Entropy in scalp EEG can be used as a preimplantation marker for VNS efficacy
Authors: Sklenarova B. , Chladek J. , Macek M. , Brazdil M. , Chrastina J. , Jurkova T. , Burilova P. , Plesinger F. , Zatloukalova E. , Dolezalova I.
Published: November 2023

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a therapeutic option in drug-resistant epilepsy. VNS leads to ≥ 50% seizure reduction in 50 to 60% of patients, termed "responders". The remaining 40 to 50% of patients, "non-responders", exhibit seizure reduction < 50%. Our work aims to differentiate between these two patient groups in preimplantation EEG analysis by employing several Entropy methods. We identified 59 drug-resistant epilepsy patients treated with VNS. We established their response to VNS in terms of responders and non-responders. A preimplantation EEG with eyes open/closed, photic stimulation, and hyperventilation was found for each patient. The EEG was segmented into eight time intervals within four standard frequency bands. In all, 32 EEG segments were obtained. Seven Entropy methods were calculated for all segments. Subsequently, VNS responders and non-responders were compared using individual Entropy methods. VNS responders and non-responders differed significantly in all Entropy methods except Approximate Entropy. Spectral Entropy revealed the highest number of EEG segments differentiating between responders and non-responders. The most useful frequency band distinguishing responders and non-responders was the alpha frequency, and the most helpful time interval was hyperventilation and rest 4 (the end of EEG recording).
Coordination strategies and concept of operations implemented during activation of public health emergency operations center for COVID-19 response in Pakistan
Authors: Tahir Majid Ali , Khan Mumtaz Ali , Ikram Aamer , Chaudhry Tamoor Hamid , Amir Afreenish , Tahir Muhammad , Haq Ijaz Ul , Zaki Shahbaz Ahmed , Salam Arslan , Wali Sidra , Munir Wasay , Salman Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Public health emergency management systems encountered difficulties in developing countries, especially in Pakistan. The COVID-19 pandemic was extremely challenging for different agencies/departments in Pakistan. Health emergency management depends on a well-established public health emergency operations center that could generate a coordinated response to emergencies. We conducted an assessment of public health emergency response coordination implemented during the COVID-19 at strategic level. This was mix-method qualitative study. Primary data was collected by using a structured questionnaire, and secondary data was collected by desk review. The agencies engaged in pandemic response at the national level in Pakistan were included in the assessment. The overall score of the emergency response coordination system during COVID-19 was 49% for all agencies. We found that agencies faced challenges in leadership, legislation, and financing issues during the pandemic response (44%). None of the agencies had a fully developed framework for joint planning and response system for health emergencies. Roles and responsibilities attached to designated agencies in response were relatively clear (55%) for most of the agencies. Effective public health emergency response is based on multi-departmental coordination, resource mobilization, and clear roles for each agency. Pakistan must proactively address these challenges for pandemic response in future.
Using smartphones to optimise and scale-up the assessment of model-based planning
Authors: Donegan Kelly R. , Brown Vanessa M. , Price Rebecca B. , Gallagher Eoghan , Pringle Andrew , Hanlon Anna K. , Gillan Claire M.
Published: November 2023

Model-based planning is thought to protect against over-reliance on habits. It is reduced in individuals high in compulsivity, but effect sizes are small and may depend on subtle features of the tasks used to assess it. We developed a diamond-shooting smartphone game that measures model-based planning in an at-home setting, and varied the game’s structure within and across participants to assess how it affects measurement reliability and validity with respect to previously established correlates of model-based planning, with a focus on compulsivity. Increasing the number of trials used to estimate model-based planning did remarkably little to affect the association with compulsivity, because the greatest signal was in earlier trials. Associations with compulsivity were higher when transition ratios were less deterministic and depending on the reward drift utilised. These findings suggest that model-based planning can be measured at home via an app, can be estimated in relatively few trials using certain design features, and can be optimised for sensitivity to compulsive symptoms in the general population.
Solution NMR Approaches for Studying Molecular Chaperones
Authors: Selig E. E. , Libich D. S.
Published: November 2023

Molecular chaperones protect proteomes against factors that perturb protein homeostasis and can lead to a range of debilitating diseases. Chaperones must interact with partially folded, improperly folded or even aggregated substrates specifically, though these interactions are usually transient because substrates must be released in a timely manner. By their nature, partially folded proteins that are chaperone substrates are dynamic and conformationally flexible, traits that are refractory to structural characterization by techniques such as cryogenic electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography. However, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is well suited to the study of conformationally flexible molecules and is sensitive to transiently populated conformations, making it a valuable tool for the study of chaperone–substrate interactions. This chapter focuses on describing the NMR techniques and approaches used for structural determination and for delineating protein–protein interactions of chaperones. It emphasizes the use of exchange-based NMR techniques for investigating sparsely populated protein conformations, an approach that has provided significant insights into chaperone–substrate interactions. Several examples of the applications of these techniques for studies of various types of molecular chaperones are presented.
State-of-the-art mass spectrometry imaging applications in biomedical research
Authors: Krestensen Kasper K. , Heeren Ron M. A. , Balluff Benjamin
Published: November 2023

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has advanced from a niche technique to a widely applied spatial biology tool. This review highlights state-of-the-art MSI application in emerging and the six largest biomedical fields according to a set of criteria.
Chemical pressure-induced PtIII–I Mott–Hubbard nanowire, [Pt(en)2I](Asp-Cn)2·H2O (13 ≤ n), detected via polarized infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Kumagai Shohei , Yoshida Takefumi , Iguchi Hiroaki , Wakizaka Masanori , Funakoshi Nobuto , Yamashita Masahiro , Takaishi Shinya
Published: November 2023

Polarized FT-IR spectra of the Pt–I semiconductive nanowire, [Pt(en)2I](Asp-Cn)2·H2O, revealed that the first PtIII–PtIII AV state for n ≥ 13.
Covalently bonded interface in polymer/boron nitride nanosheet composite toward enhanced mechanical and thermal behaviour
Authors: Chaurasia Ankur , Kumar Kaushlendra , Harsha S. P. , Parashar Avinash
Published: November 2023

This experimental study aimed to enhance the mechanical and thermal properties of BN (hexagonal boron nitride) nanosheet-reinforced high-density polyethylene by functionalizing its interface.
Single-crystal growth, structure and thermal transport properties of the metallic antiferromagnet Zintl-phase β-EuIn2As2
Authors: Wu D. S. , Na S. H. , Li Y. J. , Zhou X. B. , Wu W. , Song Y. T. , Zheng P. , Li Z. , Luo J. L.
Published: November 2023

We report the single-crystal growth, structure, magnetic and electrical/thermal transport properties of the A-type antiferromagnet Zintl-phase β-EuIn2As2.
Defective silicotungstic acid-loaded magnetic floral N-doped carbon microspheres for ultra-fast oxidative desulfurization of high sulfur liquid fuels
Authors: Liu Yefeng , Yin Xiaojie , Li Chuan , Xie Zhong , Zhao Fuyan , Li Jing , Hei Jinpei , Han Yang , Wang Nannan , Zuo Peng
Published: November 2023

The magnetic floral γ-Fe2O3@NC@SiW12-300 with oxygen vacancies shows a high desulfurization rate, high TOF, and low Ea in ODS, and its HO˙ radical oxidation desulfurization mechanism is proposed.
Cu/NiO nanorods for efficiently promoting the electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Liu Xu , Duan Yun , Cheng Xue-Tao , Zhao Hui-Lin , Liu Zhiliang , Wang Yan-Qin
Published: November 2023

A Cu/NiO-NF electrocatalyst is successfully fabricated, in which the synergistic effect between Cu and NiO resulted in a boosted performance of the electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia (ENO3RR) under neutral conditions.
Fluorescent carbon dots from birch leaves for sustainable electroluminescent devices
Authors: Tang Shi , Liu Yongfeng , Opoku Henry , Gregorsson Märta , Zhang Peijuan , Auroux Etienne , Dang Dongfeng , Mudring Anja-Verena , Wågberg Thomas , Edman Ludvig , Wang Jia
Published: November 2023

A mild solvothermal synthesis of carbon dots (CDs) from birch leaves is reported. The CDs feature a high quantum yield of 26% in ethanol, and deliver deep-red, narrowband emission (λpeak = 675 nm, FWHM = 29 nm) in a light-emitting device.
Spectral stability improvement through wide fields of view collection optics in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy applications
Authors: Wang Guangda , Zeng Ying , Guo Lianbo , Li Shenglin , Hu Zhenlin
Published: November 2023

Spectral stability improvement through various wide fields of view collecting optics, averaging temperature and ionization conditions, reducing the impact of plasma morphology fluctuations on acquisition.
The particle size control of ruthenium-encapsulated hollow silica sphere catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide into formic acid
Authors: Umegaki Tetsuo , Nagakubo Eiji , Saeki Kenjiro , Kojima Yoshiyuki
Published: November 2023

In the present study, the control of particle size of ruthenium-encapsulated hollow silica catalysts is reported.
Self-assembled monolayers as hole-transporting materials for inverted perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lan Zhong-Rui , Shao Jiang-Yang , Zhong Yu-Wu
Published: November 2023

On the basis of the anchoring group, three categories of self-assembled monolayer hole-transporting materials in high-performance inverted perovskite solar cells are discussed.
Porous Zn-MOF with two diverse cages synthesized using functionalized biphenyl tricarboxylic acid: CO2 selective adsorption and fixation
Authors: An Nan , Ma Lu-Lu , Yang Fan , Zhang Wen-Yan , Yang Guo-Ping , Wang Yao-Yu
Published: November 2023

A new MOF 1 shows a 3D porous framework formed by the interconnected dodecahedron and octahedron cages. Thus, the activated MOF 1 not only has excellent selective adsorption performance for C2H2, CO2 and CH4, but also has good catalytic performance for the reaction of CO2 fixation.
Experimental study on the self-expanding sweep and microscopic oil displacement of amphiphilic carbon-based nanofluids
Authors: Liu Rui , Shi Jipeng , Wang Bo , Ma Bin , Dong Tao , Chen Zezhou , Pu Wanfen
Published: November 2023

Carbon-based nanomaterials possess numerous distinctive properties, such as their small size and interface effects.
A dual-functional halloysite nanotube-based nanoprobe for the detection and removal of hypochlorite
Authors: Pan Yan , Zhou Cuiping , Long Shibin , Li Lin , Wu Xiongzhi , Yan Liqiang
Published: November 2023

A turn-on fluorescent nanoprobe was developed by grafting a coumarin-based fluorophore onto halloysite nanotubes. This probe can be used for both rapid detection and efficient removal of ClO− in pure aqueous solution.
Z-Selective access to α-trifluoromethyl arylenes through Pd-catalysed fluoroarylation of 1,1-difluoroallenes
Authors: Chen Lei , Luo Ze-Feng , Ye Peng , Mao Yang-Jie , Xu Zhen-Yuan , Xu Dan-Qian , Lou Shao-Jie
Published: November 2023

A Pd-catalysed Z-selective fluoroarylation of 1,1-difluoroallenes with AgF and various aryl iodides was developed for the first time, constituting an interesting approach for the synthesis of challenging Z-α-trifluoromethyl arylenes.
Transition metal-free [3 + 3] annulation of cyclopropanols with β-enamine esters to assemble nicotinate derivatives
Authors: Zhan Jun-Long , Zhu Lin , Bai Jia-Nan , Liu Jian-Bo , Zhang Shi-Han , Xie Yao-Qiang , Hu Bo-Mei , Wang Yang , Han Wen-Jun
Published: November 2023

An atom-economical synthetic approach for preparing structurally important nicotinates under metal- and additive-free conditions was developed.
A 7‐nm‐Based 5R4W High‐Timing Reliability Regfile Circuit
Authors: Zhao Wanlong , Zhang Yuejun , Wen Liang , Wang Pengjun
Published: November 2023

Register file (Regfile), as the bottleneck circuit for processor data interaction, directly determines the computing performance of the system. To address the read/write conflict and timing error problems of register heap, this paper proposes a 5R4W high‐timing reliability Regfile circuit design scheme. First, the scheme analyzed the principles of timing errors such as read/write conflicts, write errors, and read errors in the Regfile circuit; then adopted the timing separation method of independent control of the read/write process by clock double edges to solve multiport read/write conflicts, designed a mirror memory check circuit to avoid write errors caused by the word line delays, and used a phase‐locked clock feedback structure to eliminate read errors caused by the data timing fluctuations; in the TSMC 7 nm FinFET process, a 64 × 74‐bit 5R4W Regfile circuit was implemented using a fully customized layout. Experimental results show that the Regfile circuit has an area of 0.13 mm2 and consumes 5.541 mW. The circuit operates at a maximum frequency of 3.8 GHz at −40 to −125°C and 0.75 V, and is capable of detecting write errors caused by a clock jitter exceeding 30 ps or a frequency above 5 GHz.
Global exact controllability of the viscous and resistive MHD system in a rectangle thanks to the lateral sides and to distributed phantom forces
Authors: Liao Jiajiang
Published: November 2023

We consider the 2-D incompressible viscous and resistive magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) system in a rectangle, with controls on the lateral sides. The velocity satisfies Dirichlet boundary conditions, while the magnetic field follows perfectly conducting wall boundary conditions on the remaining, uncontrolled part of the boundary.We extend the small-time global exact null controllability result of Coron et al. in [Ann PDE 5 (2019) 1–49] from Navier–Stokes equations to MHD equations, with a little help of distributed phantom forces, which can be chosen arbitrarily small in any given Sobolev spaces. Our analysis relies on Coron’s return method, the well-prepared dissipation method, long-time nonlinear Cauchy–Kovalevskaya estimates and Badra’s local exact controllability result.
Towards a Greener Future: Promoting Green and Sustainable Development in Transportation Operation
Authors: Younus Muhammad , Purnomo Eko Priyo , Husein Rahmawati , Khairunnisa Tiara
Published: November 2023

In this research paper, we will be exploring the need to have environmentally friendly transportation logistics operations and how the government can play a role in promoting the clean and green transportation logistics initiative. The purpose of this research study will be to give awareness and understanding of the problem of pollution caused by vehicles used in transportation logistics operations. Then after it, we will discuss the possible solutions to either minimize the reason for pollution entirely or make the effect of it as low as possible; To make solutions possible, the government’s role will be the key in order to bind people through policies and laws and also providing the ease in acquiring the resources required by the private sector for the implementation of the environmentally friendly solution. To be mention that this paper will be limited to providing different ways for countries’ governments to go towards sustainable development, from which each country’s government can take away any practical solution for them and can successfully implement it in their country.
Exosomal CircMFN2 Enhances the Progression of Pituitary Adenoma via the MiR-146a-3p/TRAF6/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Wan Haitong , Gao Xiang , Yang Zexu , Wei Leiguo , Qu Yufei , Liu Qi
Published: November 2023

Background Pituitary adenoma (PA) is a common intracranial endocrine tumor, but no precise target has been found for effective prediction and treatment of PA.

Methods Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR) analysis showed that circMFN2 could affect the expression of miR-146a-3p in PA samples. Moreover, we used Western blotting to evaluate the expression levels of TRAF6 and NF-κB markers. The EdU assay, scratch wound healing assay, and Matrigel invasion assay were performed to assess the potential function of this pathway in PA cells. Based on the bioinformatic analysis including KEGG, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and microarray analysis, we evaluated the efficacy of circMFN2 as a potential biomarker for diagnosing PA, and we aimed to determine the mechanism of action in PA cells.

Results Our findings indicate that there is a significant increase in the expression of circMFN2 in tissues, serum, and exosomes in the invasive group compared with the noninvasive and normal groups. Furthermore, this difference was statistically significant both preoperatively and postoperatively. To clarify its function, we downregulated this gene, and the experimental results suggested that the motility and proliferative capacity were reduced in vitro. In addition, rescue assays showed that miR-146a-3p could successfully reverse the inhibitory effect of circMFN2 knockdown on motility and proliferation in PA cells. Moreover, downregulation of circMFN2 and miR-146a-3p significantly changed the expression of TRAF6 and NF-κB.

Conclusion This study identified that circMFN2 regulates miR-146a-3p to promote adenoma development partially via the TRAF6/NF-κB pathway and may be a potential therapeutic target for PA.
Cobb Syndrome Associated with Spinal Cavernoma – Case Report
Authors: Filho Paulo Moacir Mesquita , Lucena Luan , Devens Leticia Bassani , Dias Luana Rossato , Gregol Bruno Missio , Azambuja Jr Nério Dutra
Published: November 2023

Cobb syndrome, or cutaneomeningospinal angiomatosis, is a rare condition that affects young adults, and its etiology has not been completely elucidated. It is characterized by a cutaneous sign, or stigma, associated with spinal or intracranial malformations. The symptoms are quite diverse, but, in most cases, the disease presents motor deficit and pain. The present study reports the case of a 48-year-old female patient, who initially sought dermatological medical care for a single skin lesion in the posterior cervical region. During the excision, it was noticed that the lesion had contiguous behavior to the deep anatomical planes, thus requiring the evaluation of the neurosurgical team. The purpose of this report is to describe this rare disease, covering more details about diagnosis and therapy.