bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An open dataset for intelligent recognition and classification of abnormal condition in longwall mining
Authors: Yang Wenjuan , Zhang Xuhui , Ma Bing , Wang Yanqun , Wu Yujia , Yan Jianxing , Liu Yongwei , Zhang Chao , Wan Jicheng , Wang Yue , Huang Mengyao , Li Yuyang , Zhao Dian
Published: June 2023

The underground coal mine production of the fully mechanized mining face exists many problems, such as poor operating environment, high accident rate and so on. Recently, the intelligent autonomous coal mining is gradually replacing the traditional mining process. The artificial intelligence technology is an active research area and is expect to identify and warn the underground abnormal conditions for intelligent longwall mining. It is inseparable from the construction of datasets, but the downhole dataset is still blank at present. This work develops an image dataset of underground longwall mining face (DsLMF+), which consists of 138004 images with annotation 6 categories of mine personnel, hydraulic support guard plate, large coal, towline, miners’ behaviour and mine safety helmet. All the labels of dataset are publicly available in YOLO format and COCO format. The availability and accuracy of the datasets were reviewed by experts in coal mine field. The dataset is open access and aims to support further research and advancement of the intelligent identification and classification of abnormal conditions for underground mining.
Metabolomic and gut microbiome profiles across the spectrum of community-based COVID and non-COVID disease
Authors: Österdahl Marc F. , Whiston Ronan , Sudre Carole H. , Asnicar Francesco , Cheetham Nathan J. , Blanco Miguez Aitor , Bowyer Vicky , Antonelli Michela , Snell Olivia , dos Santos Canas Liane , Hu Christina , Wolf Jonathan , Menni Cristina , Malim Michael , Hart Deborah , Spector Tim , Berry Sarah , Segata Nicola , Doores Katie , Ourselin Sebastien , Duncan Emma L. , Steves Claire J.
Published: June 2023

Whilst most individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection have relatively mild disease, managed in the community, it was noted early in the pandemic that individuals with cardiovascular risk factors were more likely to experience severe acute disease, requiring hospitalisation. As the pandemic has progressed, increasing concern has also developed over long symptom duration in many individuals after SARS-CoV-2 infection, including among the majority who are managed acutely in the community. Risk factors for long symptom duration, including biological variables, are still poorly defined. Here, we examine post-illness metabolomic profiles, using nuclear magnetic resonance (Nightingale Health Oyj), and gut-microbiome profiles, using shotgun metagenomic sequencing (Illumina Inc), in 2561 community-dwelling participants with SARS-CoV-2. Illness duration ranged from asymptomatic (n = 307) to Post-COVID Syndrome (n = 180), and included participants with prolonged non-COVID-19 illnesses (n = 287). We also assess a pre-established metabolomic biomarker score, previously associated with hospitalisation for both acute pneumonia and severe acute COVID-19 illness, for its association with illness duration. We found an atherogenic-dyslipidaemic metabolic profile, including biomarkers such as fatty acids and cholesterol, was associated with longer duration of illness, both in individuals with and without SARS-CoV-2 infection. Greater values of a pre-existing metabolomic biomarker score also associated with longer duration of illness, regardless of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We found no association between illness duration and gut microbiome profiles in convalescence. This highlights the potential role of cardiometabolic dysfunction in relation to the experience of long duration symptoms after symptoms of acute infection, both COVID-19 as well as other illnesses.
Suspended hydrogel culture as a method to scale up intestinal organoids
Authors: Co Julia Y. , Klein Jessica A. , Kang Serah , Homan Kimberly A.
Published: June 2023

Primary tissue-derived epithelial organoids are a physiologically relevant in vitro intestinal model that have been implemented for both basic research and drug development applications. The existing method of culturing intestinal organoids in surface-attached native extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogel domes is not readily amenable to large-scale culture and contributes to culture heterogeneity. We have developed a method of culturing intestinal organoids within suspended basement membrane extract (BME) hydrogels of various geometries, which streamlines the protocol, increases the scalability, enables kinetic sampling, and improves culture uniformity without specialized equipment or additional expertise. We demonstrate the compatibility of this method with multiple culture formats, and provide examples of suspended BME hydrogel organoids in downstream applications: implementation in a medium-throughput drug screen and generation of Transwell monolayers for barrier evaluation. The suspended BME hydrogel culture method will allow intestinal organoids, and potentially other organoid types, to be used more widely and at higher throughputs than previously possible.
Elevated third trimester corticosteroid levels are associated with fewer offspring infections
Authors: Prince Nicole , Kelly Rachel S. , Chu Su H. , Kachroo Priyadarshini , Chen Yulu , Mendez Kevin M. , Begum Sofina , Bisgaard Hans , Bønnelykke Klaus , Kim Min , Levy Ofer , Litonjua Augusto A. , Wheelock Craig E. , Weiss Scott T. , Chawes Bo L. , Lasky-Su Jessica A.
Published: June 2023

Respiratory infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in early life, and recurrent infections increase the risk of developing chronic diseases. The maternal environment during pregnancy can impact offspring health, but the factors leading to increased infection proneness have not been well characterized during this period. Steroids have been implicated in respiratory health outcomes and may similarly influence infection susceptibility. Our objective was to describe relationships between maternal steroid levels and offspring infection proneness. Using adjusted Poisson regression models, we evaluated associations between sixteen androgenic and corticosteroid metabolites during pregnancy and offspring respiratory infection incidence across two pre-birth cohorts (N = 774 in VDAART and N = 729 in COPSAC). Steroid metabolites were measured in plasma samples from pregnant mothers across all trimesters of pregnancy by ultrahigh-performance-liquid-chromatography/mass-spectrometry. We conducted further inquiry into associations of steroids with related respiratory outcomes: asthma and lung function spirometry. Higher plasma corticosteroid levels in the third trimester of pregnancy were associated with lower incidence of offspring respiratory infections (P = 4.45 × 10–7 to 0.002) and improved lung function metrics (P = 0.020–0.036). Elevated maternal androgens were generally associated with increased offspring respiratory infections and worse lung function, with some associations demonstrating nominal significance at P < 0.05, but these trends were inconsistent across individual androgens. Increased maternal plasma corticosteroid levels in the late second and third trimesters were associated with lower infections and better lung function in offspring, which may represent a potential avenue for intervention through corticosteroid supplementation in late pregnancy to reduce offspring respiratory infection susceptibility in early life.

Clinical Trial Registry information: VDAART and COPSAC were originally conducted as clinical trials; VDAART: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00920621; COPSAC: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00798226.
Comparative genomics of infective Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains reveals their food origin
Authors: Morard Miguel , Pérez-Través Laura , Perpiñá Carla , Lairón-Peris María , Collado María Carmen , Pérez-Torrado Roberto , Querol Amparo
Published: June 2023

Fungal infections are less studied than viral or bacterial infections and often more difficult to treat. Saccharomycescerevisiae is usually identified as an innocuous human-friendly yeast; however, this yeast can be responsible for infections mainly in immunosuppressed individuals. S.cerevisiae is a relevant organism widely used in the food industry. Therefore, the study of food yeasts as the source of clinical infection is becoming a pivotal question for food safety. In this study, we demonstrate that S.cerevisiae strains cause infections to spread mostly from food environments. Phylogenetic analysis, genome structure analysis, and phenotypic characterization showed that the key sources of the infective strains are food products, such as bread and probiotic supplements. We observed that the adaptation to host infection can drive important phenotypic and genomic changes in these strains that could be good markers to determine the source of infection. These conclusions add pivotal evidence to reinforce the need for surveillance of food-related S.cerevisiae strains as potential opportunistic pathogens.
Monte Carlo simulation and experimental validation of plant microtubules cathode in biodegradable battery
Authors: Palicha Kaushik A. , Loganathan Pavithra , Sudha V. , Harinipriya S.
Published: June 2023

For the first time, electrochemical methods are utilized to study the response of tubulin monomers (extracted from plant source such as Green Peas: Arachis Hypogea) towards charge perturbations in the form of conductivity, conformational changes via self-assembly and adsorption on Au surface. The obtained dimerization and surface adsorption energetics of the tubulins from Cyclic Voltammetry agree well with the literature value of 6.9 and 14.9 kCal/mol for lateral and longitudinal bond formation energy respectively. In addition to the effects of charge perturbations on change in structure, ionic and electronic conductivity of tubulin with increasing load are investigated and found to be 1.25 Sm−1 and 2.89 mSm−1 respectively. The electronic conductivity is 1.93 times higher than the literature value of 1.5 mSm−1, demonstrating the fact that the microtubules (dimer of tubulins, MTs) from plant source can be used as a semiconductor electrode material in energy conversion and storage applications. Thus, motivated by the Monte Carlo simulation and electrochemical results the MTs extracted from plant source are used as cathode material for energy storage device such as Bio-battery and the Galvanostatic Charge/Discharge studies are carried out in coin cell configuration. The configuration of the bio-battery cell is as follows: Al/CB//PP-1M KCl//MTs/SS; where SS and Al are used as current collectors for cathode and anode respectively, Polypropylene (PP) membrane soaked in 1M KCl as electrolyte and Carbon Black (CB) is the anode material. Another configuration of the cell would be replacement of CB by biopolymer such as ethyl cellulose anode (Al/EC/PP-1M KCl/MTs/SS).
Anti-TNF-α therapy induced psoriasis in rheumatoid arthritis patients according to FDA postmarketing surveillance data
Authors: Joulfayan Haroutyun , Makunts Tigran , Abagyan Ruben
Published: June 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis, RA, is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness. This disease affects nearly 1% of the world population. RA predominates in females and typically develops between the ages of 30 and 50 years. Common therapeutics for the treatment of RA include immune system suppressants such as tumor necrosis factor, or TNF, inhibitors. There is growing concern related to multiple clinical cases reporting an unexpected onset of psoriasis following the use of TNF inhibitors. This adverse event is counterintuitive since some tumor necrosis factor inhibitors are indicated for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. In this study, we analyzed over 880 thousand postmarketing safety reports from patients being treated for RA with a single therapeutic and provided evidence for a statistically significant association of psoriasis adverse events with TNF inhibitor use as compared to methotrexate. Additionally, we quantified the reported odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals between four individual TNF inhibitors and found that the degree of association with psoriasis was variable among the drugs studied, with certolizumab pegol exhibiting the highest reported risk.
Analysis of interaction dynamics and rogue wave localization in modulation instability using data-driven dominant balance
Authors: Ermolaev Andrei V. , Mabed Mehdi , Finot Christophe , Genty Goëry , Dudley John M.
Published: June 2023

We analyze the dynamics of modulation instability in optical fiber (or any other nonlinear Schrödinger equation system) using the machine-learning technique of data-driven dominant balance. We aim to automate the identification of which particular physical processes drive propagation in different regimes, a task usually performed using intuition and comparison with asymptotic limits. We first apply the method to interpret known analytic results describing Akhmediev breather, Kuznetsov-Ma, and Peregrine soliton (rogue wave) structures, and show how we can automatically distinguish regions of dominant nonlinear propagation from regions where nonlinearity and dispersion combine to drive the observed spatio-temporal localization. Using numerical simulations, we then apply the technique to the more complex case of noise-driven spontaneous modulation instability, and show that we can readily isolate different regimes of dominant physical interactions, even within the dynamics of chaotic propagation.
Integrated analysis of canine soft tissue sarcomas identifies recurrent mutations in TP53, KMT genes and PDGFB fusions
Authors: Das Sunetra , Idate Rupa , Lana Susan E. , Regan Daniel P. , Duval Dawn L.
Published: June 2023

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a heterogenous group of mesenchymal tumors representing over 50 distinct types with overlapping histological features and non-specific anatomical locations. Currently, localized sarcomas are treated with surgery + / −  radiation in both humans and dogs with few molecularly targeted therapeutic options. However, to improve precision-based cancer therapy through trials in pet dogs with naturally occurring STS tumors, knowledge of genomic profiling and molecular drivers in both species is essential. To this purpose, we sought to characterize the transcriptomic and genomic mutation profiles of canine STS subtypes (fibrosarcoma, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, and peripheral nerve sheath tumors), by leveraging RNAseq, whole exome sequencing, immunohistochemistry, and drug assays. The most common driver mutations were in cell cycle/DNA repair (31%, TP53-21%) and chromatin organization/binding (41%, KMT2D-21%) genes. Similar to a subset of human sarcomas, we identified fusion transcripts of platelet derived growth factor B and collagen genes that predict sensitivity to PDGFR inhibitors. Transcriptomic profiling grouped these canine STS tumors into 4 clusters, one PNST group (H1), and 3 FSA groups selectively enriched for extracellular matrix interactions and PDFGB fusions (H2), homeobox transcription factors (H3), and elevated T-cell infiltration (H4). This multi-omics approach provides insights into canine STS sub-types at a molecular level for comparison to their human counterparts, to improve diagnosis, and may provide additional targets for chemo- and immuno-therapy.
Mediating role of resilience in the relationships of physical activity and mindful self-awareness with peace of mind among college students
Authors: Liao Yu-Chi , Huang Tzu-Yun , Lin Szu-Hung , Wu Chia-Huei , Chang Kun-Tang , Hsieh Shulan , Lin Sheng-Hsiang , Goh Joshua Oon Soo , Yang Cheng-Ta
Published: June 2023

Peace of mind (PoM) is an index of mental health in Asian culture and emphasizes low arousal, happiness, harmony, and an internal state of peacefulness. While previous studies have found that mindful self-awareness can contribute to PoM, regular physical activity (PA) is also an important factor contributing to one’s PoM due to its function in promoting one's resilience. The study aims to investigate a hypothetical model that assumes PA is associated with resilience while controlling for mindful self-awareness, contributing to PoM. The PoM scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Chinese translation of Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and PA self-report questionnaire were used. A path analysis was applied to test the association between these variables and the mediating role of resilience. A total of 436 students from a university in Taiwan were recruited; the mean age was 20.87, with 46.3% female and 73.6% engaging in over 150 min/week of moderate PA. Gender and age negatively correlated with PA. After controlling for age and gender, there was no direct effect of physical activity on PoM; both mindful self-awareness and PA predict resilience, which in turn predicts PoM, suggesting that both cognitive (i.e., mindful self-awareness) and PA are important to cultivate resilience and thus PoM.
N-glycans from serum IgG and total serum glycoproteins specific for endometriosis
Authors: Kovács Zsuzsanna , Reidy Fiona , Glover Louise , McAuliffe Fionnuala M. , Stockmann Henning , Kilbane Mark T. , Twomey Patrick J. , Peters Maire , Saare Merli , Rudd Pauline M. , Utt Meeme , Wingfield Mary , Salumets Andres , Saldova Radka
Published: June 2023

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory gynaecological disease characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. There are currently no definitive non-invasive diagnostic tools. Glycosylation is the most common posttranslational modification of proteins and altered glycosylation has been found in many diseases, including chronic inflammatory conditions and cancer. Sialylation and galactosylation on serum IgG have previously been found to be altered in endometriosis and serum sialylation changed after Zoladex (Goserelin Acetate) therapy. Using IgG and whole serum glycoproteins, we investigated N-glycosylation in two clinical cohorts of women with and without endometriosis. PNGase F-digested serum samples were fluorescently labelled and N-glycans were profiled by ultra-performance liquid chromatography. Clinical data was collected to link glycomic findings with metabolic and hormonal profiles. Total serum glycoprotein and IgG glycosylation differed in patients with endometriosis compared to control cases. The most significantly altered was glycan peak 3 from IgG, containing bisected biantennary glycans, which was decreased in the endometriosis cohorts (p = 0.0000005–0.018). In conclusion, this is the first pilot study to identify changes in N-glycans from whole serum glycoproteins associated with endometriosis. A larger validation study is now warranted and such studies should include the follow-up of surgically and pharmacologically treated patients.
Antioxidant system of garden cress sprouts for using in bio-monitor of cadmium and lead contamination
Authors: Abdel-Aty Azza M. , Elsayed Alshaimaa M. , Gad Abdul Aziz M. , Barakat Amal Z. , Mohamed Saleh A.
Published: June 2023

Based on garden cress significantly used for phytoremediation, the antioxidant system included antioxidant-phenolic compounds and antioxidant-enzymes of 6-day-garden cress sprouts (GCS) were assessed as potential bio-indicators for cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) contamination. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of GCS germinated under Cd and Pb treatments (25–150 mg kg−1) gradually increased with increasing concentration of metals and peaked by 2.0, 2.6, and 2.5, 2.3 folds at 150 mg kg−1, respectively. By using DPPH, ABTS, and PMC antioxidant assays, the total antioxidant activity of phenolic compounds of GCS increased 6.1, 13.0, and 5.8-fold for Cd and 5.9, 14.6, and 8.2-fold for Pb at 150 mg kg−1, respectively. The antioxidant enzymes of GCS (POD, CAT, GR, and GST) were significantly activated in response to Cd and Pb stress, and two new electrophoretic POD bands were detected. GCS was absorbed 19.0% and 21.3% of Cd and Pb at 150 mg metal kg−1, respectively. In conclusion, the approaches of the antioxidant defense system of GSC could potentially be used as bio-indicator for monitoring Cd and Pb contamination in a short time of germination process.
BMP-induced non-canonical signaling is upregulated during autophagy-mediated regeneration in inflamed mesothelial cells
Authors: Zsiros Viktória , Dóczi Nikolett , Petővári Gábor , Pop Alexandra , Erdei Zsófia , Sebestyén Anna , L. Kiss Anna
Published: June 2023

Previously, we showed that after Freund’s adjuvant-induced peritonitis, rat mesothelial cells regain their epithelial phenotype through mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) accompanied by autophagy. Since bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are well-known MET-inducers, we were interested in the potential expression of BMPs and BMP-induced pathways. Although mesothelial cells expressed lower amounts of BMP7, its level in the peritoneal cavity and mesothelial synthesis of BMP4 were significantly increased during inflammation. BMPR1A and BMPR2 were also significantly expressed. Expression of transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase (TAK1) and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases (JNK1-JNK2) were more intense than that of phosphorylated Mothers Against Decapentaplegic homolog 1/5 (p-SMAD1/5), confirming that the non-canonical pathway of BMPs prevailed in our model. JNK signaling through B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) can contribute to Beclin-1 activation. We demonstrated that TAK1-JNK-Bcl-2 signaling was upregulated simultaneously with the autophagy-mediated regeneration. A further goal of our study was to prove the regenerative role of autophagy after inflammation. We used a specific inhibitor, bafilomycin A1 (BafA1), and found that BafA1 treatment decreased the expression of microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3B) and resulted in morphological signs of cell death in inflamed mesothelial cells indicating that if autophagy is arrested, regeneration turns into cell death and consequently, mesothelial cells die.
Targeted treatment of severe vascular malformations harboring PIK3CA and TEK mutations with alpelisib is highly effective with limited toxicity
Authors: Sterba Martin , Pokorna Petra , Faberova Renata , Pinkova Blanka , Skotakova Jarmila , Seehofnerova Anna , Blatny Jan , Janigova Lucia , Koskova Olga , Palova Hana , Mahdal Michal , Pazourek Lukas , Jabandziev Petr , Slaby Ondrej , Mudry Peter , Sterba Jaroslav
Published: June 2023

This was a prospective cohort study of eighteen patients with large and debilitating vascular malformations with one or more major systemic complications. In all patients, we discovered activating alterations in either TEK or PIK3CA. Based on these findings, targeted treatment using the PI3K inhibitor alpelisib was started with regular check-ups, therapy duration varied from 6 to 31 months. In all patients, marked improvement in quality of life was observed. We observed radiological improvement in fourteen patients (two of them being on combination with either propranolol or sirolimus), stable disease in 2 patients. For 2 patients, an MRI scan was not available as they were shortly on treatment, however, a clinically visible response in size reduction or structure regression, together with pain relief was observed. In patients with elevated D-dimer levels before alpelisib administration, a major improvement was noted, suggesting its biomarker role. We observed overall very good tolerance of the treatment, documenting a single patient with grade 3 hyperglycemia. Patients with size reduction were offered local therapies wherever possible. Our report presents a promising approach for the treatment of VMs harboring different targetable TEK and PIK3CA gene mutations with a low toxicity profile and high efficacy.
The tardigrade protein CAHS D interacts with, but does not retain, water in hydrated and desiccated systems
Authors: Sanchez-Martinez Silvia , Ramirez John F. , Meese Emma K. , Childs Charles A. , Boothby Thomas C.
Published: June 2023

Tardigrades are a group of microscopic animals renowned for their ability to survive near complete desiccation. A family of proteins, unique to tardigrades, called Cytoplasmic Abundant Heat Soluble (CAHS) proteins are necessary to mediate robust desiccation tolerance in these animals. However, the mechanism(s) by which CAHS proteins help to protect tardigrades during water-loss have not been fully elucidated. Here we use thermogravimetric analysis to empirically test the proposed hypothesis that tardigrade CAHS proteins, due to their propensity to form hydrogels, help to retain water during desiccation. We find that regardless of its gelled state, both in vitro and in vivo, a model CAHS protein (CAHS D) retains no more water than common proteins and control cells in the dry state. However, we find that while CAHS D proteins do not increase the total amount of water retained in a dry system, they interact with the small amount of water that does remain. Our study indicates that desiccation tolerance mediated by CAHS D cannot be simply ascribed to water retention and instead implicates its ability to interact more tightly with residual water as a possible mechanism underlying its protective capacity. These results advance our fundamental understanding of tardigrade desiccation tolerance which could provide potential avenues for new technologies to aid in the storage of dry shelf-stable pharmaceuticals and the generation of stress tolerant crops to ensure food security in the face of global climate change.
Modeling of mitochondrial genetic polymorphisms reveals induction of heteroplasmy by pleiotropic disease locus 10398A>G
Authors: Smullen Molly , Olson Meagan N. , Murray Liam F. , Suresh Madhusoodhanan , Yan Guang , Dawes Pepper , Barton Nathaniel J. , Mason Jivanna N. , Zhang Yucheng , Fernandez-Fontaine Aria A. , Church George M. , Mastroeni Diego , Wang Qi , Lim Elaine T. , Chan Yingleong , Readhead Benjamin
Published: June 2023

Mitochondrial (MT) dysfunction has been associated with several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). While MT-copy number differences have been implicated in AD, the effect of MT heteroplasmy on AD has not been well characterized. Here, we analyzed over 1800 whole genome sequencing data from four AD cohorts in seven different tissue types to determine the extent of MT heteroplasmy present. While MT heteroplasmy was present throughout the entire MT genome for blood samples, we detected MT heteroplasmy only within the MT control region for brain samples. We observed that an MT variant 10398A>G (rs2853826) was significantly associated with overall MT heteroplasmy in brain tissue while also being linked with the largest number of distinct disease phenotypes of all annotated MT variants in MitoMap. Using gene-expression data from our brain samples, our modeling discovered several gene networks involved in mitochondrial respiratory chain and Complex I function associated with 10398A>G. The variant was also found to be an expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) for the gene MT-ND3. We further characterized the effect of 10398A>G by phenotyping a population of lymphoblastoid cell-lines (LCLs) with and without the variant allele. Examination of RNA sequence data from these LCLs reveal that 10398A>G was an eQTL for MT-ND4. We also observed in LCLs that 10398A>G was significantly associated with overall MT heteroplasmy within the MT control region, confirming the initial findings observed in post-mortem brain tissue. These results provide novel evidence linking MT SNPs with MT heteroplasmy and open novel avenues for the investigation of pathomechanisms that are driven by this pleiotropic disease associated loci.
Whole mitogenomes reveal that NW Africa has acted both as a source and a destination for multiple human movements
Authors: Aizpurua-Iraola Julen , Abdeli Amine , Benhassine Traki , Calafell Francesc , Comas David
Published: June 2023

Despite being enclosed between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert, North Africa has been the scenario of multiple human migrations that have shaped the genetic structure of its present-day populations. Despite its richness, North Africa remains underrepresented in genomic studies. To overcome this, we have sequenced and analyzed 264 mitogenomes from the Algerian Chaoui-speaking Imazighen (a.k.a. Berbers) living in the Aurès region. The maternal genetic composition of the Aurès is similar to Arab populations in the region, dominated by West Eurasian lineages with a moderate presence of M1/U6 North African and L sub-Saharan lineages. When focusing on the time and geographic origin of the North African specific clades within the non-autochthonous haplogroups, different geographical neighboring regions contributed to the North African maternal gene pool during time periods that could be attributed to previously suggested admixture events in the region, since Paleolithic times to recent historical movements such as the Arabization. We have also observed the role of North Africa as a source of geneflow mainly in Southern European regions since Neolithic times. Finally, the present work constitutes an effort to increase the representation of North African populations in genetic databases, which is key to understand their history.
Detection of incomplete atypical femoral fracture on anteroposterior radiographs via explainable artificial intelligence
Authors: Kim Taekyeong , Moon Nam Hoon , Goh Tae Sik , Jung Im Doo
Published: June 2023

One of the key aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of atypical femoral fractures is the early detection of incomplete fractures and the prevention of their progression to complete fractures. However, an incomplete atypical femoral fracture can be misdiagnosed as a normal lesion by both primary care physicians and orthopedic surgeons; expert consultation is needed for accurate diagnosis. To overcome this limitation, we developed a transfer learning-based ensemble model to detect and localize fractures. A total of 1050 radiographs, including 100 incomplete fractures, were preprocessed by applying a Sobel filter. Six models (EfficientNet B5, B6, B7, DenseNet 121, MobileNet V1, and V2) were selected for transfer learning. We then composed two ensemble models; the first was based on the three models having the highest accuracy, and the second was based on the five models having the highest accuracy. The area under the curve (AUC) of the case that used the three most accurate models was the highest at 0.998. This study demonstrates that an ensemble of transfer-learning-based models can accurately classify and detect fractures, even in an imbalanced dataset. This artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted diagnostic application could support decision-making and reduce the workload of clinicians with its high speed and accuracy.
The mechanism and performance of rock breakage by undercutting disc cutter with advanced slotting
Authors: Jiang Hongxiang , Zhang Xiaodi , Zhao Huihe , Liu Zenghui , Wang Yongxin
Published: June 2023

To study the mechanism and performance of rock breakage by an undercutting disc cutter with advanced slotting, a three-dimensional numerical model of rock cutting by a disc cutter with advanced slotting assistance was established based on the discrete element method. The parallel bond constitutive model was selected to describe the micromechanical properties of rock. The correctness of the established numerical model is verified through rock breakage experiments, and the rock cutting process by the disc cutter was analyzed by a combination of the force chain and crack distribution. The influencing factors, such as advanced slotting depth, cutting thickness, rock strength, and cutter rotation speed, on rock cutting performance were investigated. The results show that a compact zone is gradually formed between the rock and disc cutter at the beginning, then a large number of microscopic tensile and shear cracks in the compact zone due to micro failure of rock are formed; the subsequent main rock fragment is mainly caused by tensile failure; advanced slotting can reduce the rock bearing capacity and bending resistance, the rock above the advanced slotting fractured easily due to its lower bending resistance, and the volume compact zone is relatively small. When the advanced slotting depth is equal to 12.5 mm, the propulsive force and specific energy consumption of rock cutting by the disc cutter are reduced by 61.6% and 16.5%, respectively. The propulsive force and specific energy consumption increase as the rock strength increases, but they tend to close when the rock strength is greater than 80 MPa, which indicates that advanced slotting assistance is more suitable for hard rock. The results obtained in this paper can provide the operating parameters determination under different factors to some extent of the undercutting disc cutter in a pre-cut condition, which further improve the rock breaking performance of mechanized cutter.
Identification of candidate lethal haplotypes and genomic association with post-natal mortality and reproductive traits in Nellore cattle
Authors: Schmidt Patrícia Iana , Mota Lucio Flavio Macedo , Fonseca Larissa Fernanda Simielli , dos Santos Silva Danielly Beraldo , Frezarim Gabriela Bonfá , Arikawa Leonardo Machestropa , de Abreu Santos Daniel Jordan , Magalhães Ana Fabrícia Braga , Cole John Bruce , Carvalheiro Roberto , de Oliveira Henrique Nunes , Null Daniel Jacob , VanRaden Paul , Ma Li , de Albuquerque Lucia Galvão
Published: June 2023

The wide use of genomic information has enabled the identification of lethal recessive alleles that are the major genetic causes of reduced conception rates, longer calving intervals, or lower survival for live-born animals. This study was carried out to screen the Nellore cattle genome for lethal recessive haplotypes based on deviation from the expected population homozygosity, and to test SNP markers surrounding the lethal haplotypes region for association with heifer rebreeding (HR), post-natal mortality (PNM) and stayability (STAY). This approach requires genotypes only from apparently normal individuals and not from affected embryos. A total of 62,022 animals were genotyped and imputed to a high-density panel (777,962 SNP markers). Expected numbers of homozygous individuals were calculated, and the probabilities of observing 0 homozygotes was obtained. Deregressed genomic breeding values [(G)EBVs] were used in a GWAS to identify candidate genes and biological mechanisms affecting HR, STAY and PNM. In the functional analyses, genes within 100 kb down and upstream of each significant SNP marker, were researched. Thirty haplotypes had high expected frequency, while no homozygotes were observed. Most of the alleles present in these haplotypes had a negative mean effect for PNM, HR and STAY. The GWAS revealed significant SNP markers involved in different physiological mechanisms, leading to harmful effect on the three traits. The functional analysis revealed 26 genes enriched for 19 GO terms. Most of the GO terms found for biological processes, molecular functions and pathways were related to tissue development and the immune system. More phenotypes underlying these putative regions in this population could be the subject of future investigation. Tests to find putative lethal haplotype carriers could help breeders to eliminate them from the population or manage matings in order to avoid homozygous.
Antimicrobial action and chemical and physical properties of CuO-doped engineered cementitious composites
Authors: Ślosarczyk Agnieszka , Klapiszewska Izabela , Parus Anna , Balicki Sebastian , Kornaus Kamil , Gapiński Bartosz , Wieczorowski Michał , Wilk Kazimiera A. , Jesionowski Teofil , Klapiszewski Łukasz
Published: June 2023

CuO nanoparticles (NPs) were added to cement matrices in quantities of 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 wt% to inhibit the growth of Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli) bacteria. It was shown that CuO NPs, in all tested concentrations, improved the antibacterial properties of the cement matrix. Nevertheless, the best mechanical, structural and durability properties were obtained for cement composites doped with CuO NPs at 0.25 wt%. Larger amounts of NPs caused a decrease in all parameters relative to the reference mortar, which may be the result of a slight change in the porosity of the composite microstructure. For 0.50 wt% CuO NPs, a slight increase in the volume of micropores in the cement matrix was observed, and an increased number of larger pores was confirmed by non-invasive computed tomography (CT). The reduction in the mechanical parameters of composites with 0.50 and 1.00 wt% CuO NPs may also be due to the slower hydration of the cement binder, as confirmed by changes in the heat of hydration for these configurations, or agglomeration of NPs, especially for the 1.00 wt% concentration, which was manifested in a decrease in the plasticity of the mortars.
Normal umbilical artery doppler values in 18–22 week old fetuses with single umbilical artery
Authors: Kazci Omer , Aydin Sonay , Fatihoglu Erdem , Tokur Oğuzhan , Bahadir Suzan , Karavas Erdal , Kantarci Mecit
Published: June 2023

Umbilical cord with a single umbilical artery (SUA) can carry twice the blood volume of a three-vessel cord (TVC). So, the normal hemodynamics of the fetuses with SUA was different from those with TVC. Furthermore, structural abnormalities, fetal aneuploidy, and intrinsic growth retardation may be associated with the presence of a SUA. In order to evaluate these patients, intermittent doppler measurements have been suggested. From this point, we aimed to determine the CDUS flow parameters in SUA cases and to demonstrate that these flow parameters are different from the TVC parameters. Ultrasound (US) examinations were performed in the 18–22 weeks of gestation during routine fetal anatomy screening. Resistance index (RI), Pulsatility index (PI), and S/D: systole to diastole ratio values were measured. The samples were taken from the proximal, mid-portion, and distal of the umbilical cord. In addition to Doppler Ultrasound values, AC and estimated fetal weight (EFW) values were also recorded. The study included 167 pregnant women, 86 of whom were study group with SUA and 81 were control group with TVC. The measurements of RI, PI, and S/D at all three levels were significantly lower in the SUA group compared to the TVC group. The resistance in the UA of fetuses with SUA is lower than in fetuses with TVC. The resistance in the UA of fetuses with SUA decreases from the fetal end to the placental end. Knowing the normal values for fetuses with SUA might provide a better and more reliable Doppler Ultrasoundassessment.
In situ construction of S-scheme heterojunction-conjugated polymer/g-C3N4 photocatalysts for enhanced H2 production and organic pollutant degradation
Authors: Mao Na
Published: June 2023

Conjugated polymer/g-C3N4 forming polymer heterojunction for enhanced H2 production and organic pollutant degradation.
Flow bioprocessing of citrus glycosides for high-value aglycone preparation
Authors: Colacicco Agostina , Catinella Giorgia , Pinna Cecilia , Pellis Alessandro , Farris Stefano , Tamborini Lucia , Dallavalle Sabrina , Molinari Francesco , Contente Martina Letizia , Pinto Andrea
Published: June 2023

A one-pot, 2-step flow bioprocess for the obtainment of hesperetin (HP) and quercetin (Q) aglycones from hesperidin (HES) and rutin (RT), has been developed, employing a co-immobilized preparation of α-rhamnosidase (RN) and β-glycosidase (HOR).
Enhancing anionic redox stability via oxygen coordination configurations
Authors: Li Haoxin , Li Yining , Zhao Xiaolin , Gan Yang , Qiu Wujie , Liu Jianjun
Published: June 2023

The oxygen coordination configuration in partially disordered Li-rich spinel cathode materials has the potential to enhance the redox stability of anions and increase battery energy density.
Selective organ targeting nanoparticles: from design to clinical translation
Authors: Li Jian , Wang Hai
Published: June 2023

This review briefly describes the fate of nanoparticlesin vivoand expounds the mechanism of organ targeting of nanoparticles.
The applications of nanozymes in cancer therapy: based on regulating pyroptosis, ferroptosis and autophagy of tumor cells
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Yu Wanpeng , Chen Mengmeng , Zhang Bingqiang , Zhang Lei , Li Peifeng
Published: June 2023

Nanozymes are nanomaterials with catalytic properties similar to those of natural enzymes, and they have recently been collectively identified as a class of innovative artificial enzymes.
Synthesis of block copolymers by radical polymerization in presence of Si-based chain transfer agent
Authors: Salomatina Evgeniia , Pikulin Aleksander , Semenov Dmitry , Grishin Ivan , Kirillova Natalia , Smirnova Larisa
Published: June 2023

A new versatile method of block-copolymer synthesis is based on classic radical polymerization with a multifunctional Si-organic chain transfer agent.
Harnessing the photo-acidity of organic dyes for the development of ring-opening polymerization of lactones under visible light
Authors: Liu Zhaogang , Zhang Xun , Sun Pan , Han Junwei , Liao Saihu
Published: June 2023

Several common organic dyes have been successfully identified as effective photoacid promotors for the development of metal-free ring-opening polymerization of lactones under visible light.
Photo and acid dual degradable polymeric nanoparticles from an o-nitrobenzyl dithiol with thiol–ene click polymerization
Authors: Zhang Ming , Li Daai , Shan Pengfei , Lian Xiaoyue , Qi Yuxi , Du Kaicheng , Ma Guoquan , Cai Liang , Li Zhihui , Li Zhongyu
Published: June 2023

Photo and acid dual degradable polymeric nanoparticles.
Recent progress in ammonia synthesis based on photoelectrocatalysis
Authors: Li Pengyan , Liu Yumin , Mushtaq Muhammad Asim , Yan Dongpeng
Published: June 2023

Photoelectrocatalytic NH3synthesis from N2and H2O is a promising approach for N-neutralization goal based on catalytic strategies, such as vacancy engineering, ion doping, frustrated Lewis pair design, heterojunction construction,etc.
Solvent-oriented structural diversity, sequential SCSC and low-temperature transformation in Cd-coordination polymers: unique turn-on–off sensing of Fe3+
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhou Jie , Chen Xue , Yan Tong , Sun Hanxu , Du Lin , Zhao Qihua
Published: June 2023

Cd-1′, Cd-2, Cd-3, and Cd-4 have been synthesized in DMF–H2O systems. SCSC transformation products Cd-5, Cd-6, and Cd-7 were obtained through solvent-induced strategy and reversible phase transitions were observed, as was a turn-on–off Fe3+ ion fluorescence sensor.
Modulating optical performance by phase transition in a nonlinear optical material β-Li2RbBi(PO4)2
Authors: Wu Lei , Zhang Ruixin , Jing Qun , Huang Hongyu , He Xianmeng , Wang Zhongchang , Chen Zhaohui
Published: June 2023

The structural changes caused by the phase transition enhance the second harmonic generatio (SHG) effect.
Porous RuO2-Co3O4/C nanocubes as high-performance trifunctional electrocatalysts for zinc–air batteries and overall water splitting
Authors: Shi Jingyi , Wang Niannian , Du Wenhao , Feng Yi , Yu Xin-Yao
Published: June 2023

Porous RuO2-Co3O4/C nanocubes have been synthesized by using ZIF-67 as a template, demonstrating excellent trifunctional activity for zinc–air batteries and water electrolysis.
Simultaneous determination of phenols in the four main original plants of the famous traditional Chinese medicine Shihu by pressurized capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Liu Xiao-Quan , Qin Chao-Feng , Chen Nai-Dong , Hao Jing-Wen , Ma Shi-Tang , Zhang Min , Song Yu , Min Yun-Jiang , Bu Ya-Qin , Li Sheng
Published: June 2023

A rapid pressurized capillary electrochromatography (pCEC) method has been established for the simultaneous analysis of 11 phenols in the four main original plants of the famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Shihu.
Preparation of a highly functionalized activated carbon from waste third-monomer pressure filter liquid for removal of methylene blue in aqueous solution
Authors: Tian Dingdan , Liu Yongjun , Sun Bing
Published: June 2023

Third monomer dimethyl isophthalate-5-sodium sulfonate (SIPM) is an additive widely used to modify polyester chips.
The controllable synthesis of NiO/Ni/C nanosheets via pulsed plasma in ethylene glycol solution for oxygen evolution electrocatalysis
Authors: Tu Rong , Leng Kunqiu , Song Chao , Zhang Chitengfei , Zheng Yingqiu , Han Yuzhe , Luo Guoqiang , Zhang Song , Goto Takashi
Published: June 2023

NiO-based composites exhibit high catalytic activity for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
Surface modification of graphene with functionalized carbenes and their applications in the sensing of toxic gases: a DFT study
Authors: Aldulaijan Sarah , Ajeebi Afnan M. , Jedidi Abdesslem , Messaoudi Sabri , Raouafi Noureddine , Dhouib Adnene
Published: June 2023

Enhancing gas sensor efficiency: DFT explores the potential of carbene-functionalized graphene.
In vitro antitumor activity, molecular dynamics simulation, DFT study, ADME prediction, and Eg5 binding of enastron analogues
Authors: Bouzina Abdeslem , Bouone Yousra Ouafa , Sekiou Omar , Aissaoui Mohamed , Ouk Tan-Sothea , Djemel Abdelhak , Mansouri Rachida , Ibrahim-Ouali Malika , Bouslama Zihad , Aouf Nour-Eddine
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study is to evaluate a series of molecules based on cyclosulfamide as potential anticancer agents.
Antioxidative polyphenols attenuate pyocyanin-induced ROS production in neuronal HT22 cell lines
Authors: Xin Haolin , Yu Ning , Yang Qian , Zou Xuan , An Zhongping , Zhou Guanen
Published: June 2023

Antioxidant polyphenols effectively protect against pyocyanin-induced cell damage.
New insights into nanosystems for non-small-cell lung cancer: diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Jiang Piao , Liang Bin , Zhang Zhen , Fan Bing , Zeng Lin , Zhou Zhiyong , Mao Zhifang , Xu Quan , Yao Weirong , Shen Qinglin
Published: June 2023

This review focuses on the recent advances of nanoparticles in the diagnosis and therapy of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
A review of the thermochemistries of biomass gasification and utilisation of gas products
Authors: Alves Carine T. , Onwudili Jude A. , Ghorbannezhad Payam , Kumagai Shogo
Published: June 2023

Conventional biomass gasification involves a complex set of chemical reactions leading to the production of a product gas mainly composed on carbon monoxide, hydrogen, carbon dioxide and methane.
Flow battery recharging by thermoresponsive liquid–liquid phase separation
Authors: Matsui Yohei , Maeda Yuki , Kawase Makoto , Suzuki Takahiro , Tsushima Shohji
Published: June 2023

A new-type thermally regenerative flow battery was proposed. The flow battery is driven by a difference in solvation states of the redox couple, and recharged by thermoresponsive liquid–liquid phase separation of the electrolyte.
Extended cycling performance of micron-sized bismuth anodes for lithium-ion batteries: self-healing of an alloy-type anode for lithium batteries
Authors: Sadan Milan K. , Song Eunji , Yu Hooam , Yun Jimin , Kim Taehong , Ahn Jou-Hyeon , Cho Kwon-Koo , Ahn Hyo-Jun
Published: June 2023

Self-healing from pulverization in alloy-type anodes for LIBs.
ZIF-67/BiOCl nanocomposites for highly efficient detection of NO2gas at room temperature
Authors: Fan Jiahui , Jiang Lin , Lv He , Qin Fangjie , Fan Yihe , Wang Jue , Ikram Muhammad , Shi Keying
Published: June 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered ideal gas-sensing materials owing to their unparalleled tunability, large surface area, rich porosity, and extensive active metal sites.
Adsorption-catalytic effects of metallurgical ferrous slag on polysulfides in Li–S batteries
Authors: Deng Rongyu , Yu Huanyu , Liu Jiamin , Chu Fulu , Lei Jie , Yang Lingzhi , Wu Feixiang
Published: June 2023

A low-cost ferrous slag particle obtained from metallurgical waste is selected as a cathode additive. It demonstrates a strong ability to adsorb and catalyze polysulfides, thus improving the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries.
Efficiently normalizing leukopoiesis by gadofullerene nanoparticles to ameliorate radiation-triggered myelosuppression
Authors: Jia Wang , Li Xue , Zhang Tian , Wang Chunru , Zhen Mingming
Published: June 2023

GFNPs enhance the leukopoiesis through affecting the differentiation, development, and maturation of leukocytes (e.g., NEUT and B cells), which leads to the remission of myelosuppression and the increase of leukocytes after radiotherapy.