bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring of the nAChRsα6 G275A spinetoram resistance allele in Drosophila melanogaster populations from New York vineyards
Authors: Scott Jeffrey G , Dressel Anastacia E , Mertz Robert W , Hesler Stephen , Loeb Greg
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Spinosyns are a group of naturally occurring and semi‐synthetic insecticides with widespread utility in agriculture, including organic production systems. One example is spinetoram (Delegate), which is the only registered insecticide in New York State (for control of Drosophila melanogaster in vineyards) to which vinegar flies have not yet evolved high levels of resistance. However, low levels of resistance have been found in vineyard populations of D. melanogaster, and a highly resistant strain was obtained after only five selections (in the laboratory). We identified the nAChR α6 mutation (G275A) responsible for the resistance and developed a rapid, high‐throughput assay for resistance.

RESULTS

Surveys of collections made in 2023 show low levels of the resistance allele in four populations. A correlation was observed between vineyard use of spinetoram and frequency of the resistance allele, but not between county‐wide use of spinosyns and frequency of the resistance allele.

CONCLUSIONS

One of the sites we monitored was previously surveyed in 2019 and the frequency of the resistance allele detected in 2023 had increased. Implications of these findings to resistance management of D. melanogaster are discussed. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Performance Self‐Powered Deep Ultraviolet Photodetector Based on NiO/β‐Ga2O3 Heterojunction with High Responsivity and Selectivity
Authors: Woo Sola , Lee Taeeun , Song Chang Woo , Park Jun Young , Jung Yusup , Hong Jeongsoo , Kyoung Sinsu
Published: July 2024

A high‐performance self‐powered deep ultraviolet (DUV) photodetector based on the NiO/β‐Ga2O3 heterojunction is fabricated and analyzed. The NiO/β‐Ga2O3 heterojunction photodetectors are fabricated both with and without a post‐annealing process following NiO film deposition. Each photodetector structure is investigated through technology computer‐aided design simulations, including energy band diagram, trap density, and carrier concentration. The pristine self‐powered NiO/β‐Ga2O3 photodetector, lacking a post‐annealing process, exhibits partial Schottky contact formation between metal and NiO film, leading to performance degradation, including reduced responsivity, detectivity, and response time. On the other hand, the post‐annealed self‐powered NiO/β‐Ga2O3 photodetector demonstrates high performance such as a responsivity of 592.0 mA W−1, a detectivity of 4.30 × 1012 Jones, and response times of 30.93 ms and 72.32 ms, respectively. Therefore, the fabricated NiO/β‐Ga2O3 photodetector shows a promising potential for various applications requiring DUV detection without an external voltage bias.
The Role of CMC Statisticians: Co‐Practitioners of the Scientific Method
Authors: Schofield Timothy
Published: July 2024

Chemistry, manufacturing, and control (CMC) statisticians play a key role in the development and lifecycle management of pharmaceutical and biological products, working with their non‐statistician partners to manage product quality. Information used to make quality decisions comes from studies, where success is facilitated through adherence to the scientific method. This is carried out in four steps: (1) an objective, (2) design, (3) conduct, and (4) analysis. Careful consideration of each step helps to ensure that a study conclusion and associated decision is correct. This can be a development decision related to the validity of an assay or a quality decision like conformance to specifications. Importantly, all decisions are made with risk. Conventional statistical risks such as Type 1 and Type 2 errors can be coupled with associated impacts to manage patient value as well as development and commercial costs. The CMC statistician brings focus on managing risk across the steps of the scientific method, leading to optimal product development and robust supply of life saving drugs and biologicals.
Flavonoids for treating pulmonary fibrosis: Present status and future prospects
Authors: Sharma Anju , Wairkar Sarika
Published: July 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disease with an unknown underlying cause. There is no complete cure for IPF; however, two anti‐fibrotic agents (Nintedanib and pirfenidone) are approved by the USFDA to extend the patient's life span. Therefore, alternative therapies supporting the survival of fibrotic patients have been studied in recent literature. The abundance of phenolic compounds, particularly flavonoids, has gathered attention due to their potential health benefits. Various flavonoids, like naringin, quercetin, baicalin, baicalein, puerarin, silymarin, and kaempferol, exhibit anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant properties, which help decrease lung fibrosis. Various databases, including PubMed, EBSCO, ProQuest, and Scopus, as well as particular websites, such as the World Health Organisation and the National Institutes of Health, were used to conduct a literature search. Several mechanisms of action of flavonoids are reported with the help of in vivo and cell line studies emphasizing their ability to modulate oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrotic processes in the lungs. They are reported for the restoration of biomarkers like hydroxyproline, cytokines, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde and others associated with IPF and for modulating various pathways responsible for the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. Yet, flavonoids have some drawbacks, such as poor solubility, challenging drug loading, stability issues, and scarce bioavailability. Therefore, novel formulations of flavonoids are explored, including liposomes, solid lipid microparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, nanogels, and nanocrystals, to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of flavonoids in pulmonary fibrosis. This review focuses on the role of flavonoids in mitigating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, their mode of action and novel formulations.
In silico designing and optimization of anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor scaffolds by complementary‐determining regions‐grafting technique
Authors: Rezaei Adriani Razieh , Mousavi Gargari Seyed Latif , Bakherad Hamid , Amani Jafar
Published: July 2024

Monoclonal antibodies are attractive therapeutic agents in a wide range of human disorders that bind specifically to their target through their complementary‐determining regions (CDRs). Small proteins with structurally preserved CDRs are promising antibodies mimetics. In this in silico study, we presented new antibody mimetics against the cancer marker epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) created by the CDRs grafting technique. Ten potential graft acceptor sites that efficiently immobilize the grafted CDR loops were selected from three small protein scaffolds using a computer. The three most involved CDR loops in antibody‐receptor interactions extracted from panitumumab antibody against the EGFR domain III crystal structure were then grafted to the selected scaffolds through the loop randomization technique. The combination of three CDR loops and 10 grafting sites revealed that three of the 36 combinations showed specific binding to EGFR DIII by binding energy calculations. Thus, the present strategy and selected small protein scaffolds are promising tools in the design of new binders against EGFR with high binding energy.
Arrays of Bowl‐Shaped Janus Particle Film with Structured Colors
Authors: Zhou Yating , You Xianzhu , Liu Wenying , Yang Wei , Jin Xuru , Pei Xiaopeng , Xiang Sheng , Zhou Hua , Liao Zhiyong , Tan Ying
Published: July 2024

Structural colors generated via total internal reflection (TIR) using nanostructure‐free micro‐concave shapes have garnered increasing attention. However, the application of large micro‐concave structures for structural coloration remains limited. Herein, a flexibly tunable structural color film fabricated by casting polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) on an array of large poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) bowl‐shaped particles is reported. The resultant film exhibits tunable red to green structural colors with changing observation angles. Moreover, the color can be further tailored by altering the shape of the film itself. The incorporation of the PDMS layer not only facilitates a shift in the locus of TIR from the bottom surface to the top concave surface of the particles, thereby enabling the generation of structural color, but also confers enhanced flexibility to the film. Further decoration with silver nanoparticles imparts antimicrobial properties, yielding a novel antimicrobial coating material with structural colors. The simple and cost‐effective strategy for the production of structural color films provides potential applications in antimicrobial coatings, enabling accessible and customizable structural coloration using big‐size micro‐concave particles.
Amphiphilic Nanoscale Antifog Coatings: Improved Chemical Robustness by Continuous Assembly of Polymers
Authors: Mossayebi Zahra , Shabani Sadegh , Easton Christopher D. , Gurr Paul A. , Simons Ranya , Qiao Greg G.
Published: July 2024

Designing effective antifog coatings poses challenges in resisting physical and chemical damage, with persistent susceptibility to decomposition in aggressive environments. As their robustness is dictated by physicochemical structural features, precise control through unique fabrication strategies is crucial. To address this challenge, a novel method for crafting nanoscale antifog films with simultaneous directional growth and cross–linking is presented, utilizing solid‐state continuous assembly of polymers via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ssCAPROMP). A new amphiphilic copolymer (specified as macrocross–linker) is designed by incorporating polydimethylsiloxane, poly(2‐(methacryloyloxy)ethyl) trimethylammonium chloride (PMETAC), and polymerizable norbornene (NB) pendant groups, allowing ssCAPROMP to produce antifog films under ambient conditions. This novel approach results in distinctive surface and molecular characteristics. Adjusting water‐absorption and nanoscale assembly parameters produced ultra‐thin (≤100 nm) antifog films with enhanced durability, particularly against strong acidic and alkaline environments, surpassing commercial antifog glasses. Thickness loss analysis against external disturbances further validated the stable surface‐tethered chemistries introduced through ssCAPROMP, even with the incorporation of minimal content of cross–linkable NB moieties (5 mol%). Additionally, a potential zwitter‐wettability mechanism elucidates antifog observations. This work establishes a unique avenue for exploring nanoengineered antifog coatings through facile and robust surface chemistries.
An Effective Catholyte for Sulfide‐Based All‐Solid‐State Batteries Utilizing Gas Absorbents
Authors: Choi Hyunbeen , Cho Sungjin , Kim Yoon‐Seong , Cho Jun Sic , Kim Haesol , Lee Hyungjin , Ko Sumin , Kim Kyungjun , Lee Sang‐Min , Hong Seung‐Tae , Choi Chang Hyuck , Seo Dong‐Hwa , Park Soojin
Published: July 2024

All‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) possess the advantage of ensuring safety while simultaneously maximizing energy density, making them suitable for next‐generation battery models. In particular, sulfide solid electrolytes (SSEs) are viewed as promising candidates for ASSB electrolytes due to their excellent ionic conductivity. However, a limitation exists in the form of interfacial side reactions occurring between the SSEs and cathode active materials (CAMs), as well as the generation of sulfide‐based gases within the SSE. These issues lead to a reduction in the capacity of CAMs and an increase in internal resistance within the cell. To address these challenges, cathode composite materials incorporating zinc oxide (ZnO) are fabricated, effectively reducing various side reactions occurring in CAMs. Acting as a semiconductor, ZnO helps mitigate the rapid oxidation of the solid electrolyte facilitated by an electronic pathway, thereby minimizing side reactions, while maintaining electron pathways to the active material. Additionally, it absorbs sulfide‐based gases, thus protecting the lithium ions within CAMs. In this study, the mass spectrometer is employed to observe gas generation phenomena within the ASSB cell. Furthermore, a clear elucidation of the side reactions occurring at the cathode and the causes of capacity reduction in ASSB are provided through density functional theory calculations.
Polyurethane Based Smart Composite Fabric for Personal Thermal Management in Multi‐Mode
Authors: Li Xunzhang , Liao Guodong , Cai Wangwang , Yang Jing , Jiang Ruiwen , Wan Jianglong , Zhao Huaixia , Wang Yangxin , Cui Jiaxi
Published: July 2024

Textiles with thermal/moisture managing functions are of high interest. However, making the textile sensitive to the surrounding environment is still challenging. Herein, a multimodal smart fabric is developed by stitching together the Ag coated thermal‐humidity sensitive thermoplastic polyurethane (Ag‐THSPU) and the hybrid of polyvinylidene fluoride and polyurethane (PU‐PVDF). The porous PU‐PVDF layer is used for solar reflection, infrared emissivity, and water resistance. The Ag‐THSPU layer is designed for regulating thermal reflection, sweat evaporation as well as convection. In cold and dry state, the Ag domains are densely packed covering the crystalline polyurethane matrix, featuring low water transmission (102.74 g m−2·24 h−1), high thermal reflection and 2.4 °C warmer than with cotton fabric. In the hot and humid state, the THSPU layer is swollen by sweat and expands in area, resulting in the formation of micro‐hook faces where the Ag domains spread apart to promote sweat evaporation (2084.88 g/m−2·24 h−1), thermal radiation and convection, offering 2.5 °C cooler than with cotton fabric. The strategy reported here opens a new door for the development of adaptive textiles in demanding situations.
Metrics for software process simulation modeling
Authors: Liu Bohan , Zhang He , Dong Liming , Wang Zhiqi , Li Shanshan
Published: July 2024

Software process simulation (SPS) has become an effective tool for software process management and improvement. However, its adoption in industry is less than what the research community expected due to the burden of measurement cost and the high demand for domain knowledge. The difficulty of extracting appropriate metrics with real data from process enactment is one of the great challenges. We aim to provide evidence‐based support of the process metrics for software process (simulation) modeling. A systematic literature review was performed by extending our previous review series to draw a comprehensive understanding of the metrics for process modeling following our proposed ontology of metrics in SPS. We identify 131 process modeling studies that collectively involve 1975 raw metrics and classified them into 21 categories using the coding technique. We found product and process external metrics are not used frequently in SPS modeling while resource external metrics are widely used. We analyze the causal relationships between metrics. We find that the models exhibit significant diversity, as no pairwise relationship between metrics accounts for more than 10% SPS models. We identify 17 data issues may encounter in measurement and 10 coping strategies. The results of this study provide process modelers with an evidence‐based reference of the identification and the use of metrics in SPS modeling and further contribute to the development of the body of knowledge on software metrics in the context of process modeling. Furthermore, this study is not limited to process simulation but can be extended to software process modeling, in general. Taking simulation metrics as standards and references can further motivate and guide software developers to improve the collection, governance, and application of process data in practice.
Boosting Microfluidic Enzymatic Cascade Reactions with pH‐Responsive Polymersomes by Spatio–Chemical Activity Control
Authors: Koball Andrea , Obst Franziska , Gaitzsch Jens , Voit Brigitte , Appelhans Dietmar
Published: July 2024

Microfluidic flow reactors permit the implementation of sensitive biocatalysts in polymeric environments (e.g., hydrogel dots), mimicking nature through the use of diverse microstructures within defined confinements. However, establishing complex hybrid structures to mimic biological processes and functions under continuous flow with optimal utilization of all components involved in the reaction process represents a significant scientific challenge. To achieve spatial, chemical, and temporal control for any microfluidic application, compartmentalization is required, as well as the unification of different sensitive compartments in the reaction chamber for the microfluidic flow design. This study presents a self‐regulating microfluidic system fabricated by a sequential photostructuring process with an intermediate chemical process step to realize pH‐sensitive hybrid structures for the fabrication of a microfluidic double chamber reactor for controlled enzymatic cascade reaction (ECR). The key point is the adaptation and retention of the function of pH‐responsive horseradish peroxidase‐loaded polymersomes in a microfluidic chip under continuous flow. ECR is successfully triggered and controlled by an interplay between glucose oxidase‐converted glucose, the membrane state of pH‐responsive polymersomes, and other parameters (e.g., flow rate and fluid composition). This study establishes a promising noninvasive regulatory platform for extended spatio–chemical control of current and future ECR and other cascade reaction systems.
Supramolecular Chiral Aggregation of Porphyrin Induced by Photo‐Generated Triphenylamines Radical Cations
Authors: Zhang Bojia , Du Cong , Wen Xin , Zhang Li , Duan Ran , Liu Minghua
Published: July 2024

Here, it is shown that photoirradiation triggered chiral J‐aggregates formation of an achiral anionic porphyrin, TPPS (tetrakis(4‐sulfonatophenyl) porphyrin), in the presence of chiral triphenylamine (TPA) derivatives. A series of chiral triarylamines linked with aromatic rings is designed through urea or amide bonds. UV‐irradiation of self‐assembled urea‐linked triphenylamine derivatives causes the formation of persistent radical cations in the chlorinated solvents, which subsequently induces the aggregation of TPPS. Transferring chirality of TPA derivatives to achiral TPPS J‐aggregates leads to the chiral assemblies with remarkable chiroptical signals. The experimental results demonstrate that, TPA derivatives linked by the urea bond can effectively promote the aggregation of TPPS rather than those with the amide bond although the photo‐generated radical cations are both produced. It is suggested that the urea‐linked TPA derivatives are more favorable to stable radical cations and thus cause the formation of TPPS chiral J‐aggregation. This work may open up an avenue for designing photo‐modulated chiral supramolecular assemblies.
A differential privacy aided DeepFed intrusion detection system for IoT applications
Authors: Anwar Sayeda Suaiba , Asaduzzaman  , Sarker Iqbal H.
Published: July 2024

In the rapidly‐developing Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, safeguarding the privacy and accuracy of linked devices and networks is of utmost importance, with the challenge lying in effective implementation of intrusion detection systems on resource‐constrained IoT devices. This study introduces a differential privacy (DP)‐aided DeepFed architecture for intrusion detection in IoT contexts as a novel approach to addressing these difficulties. To build an intrusion detection model, we combined components of a convolutional neural network with bidirectional long short‐term memory. We apply this approach to the Bot‐IoT dataset, which was rigorously curated by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and N‐BaIoT dataset. Our major goal is to create a model that delivers high accuracy while protecting privacy, an often‐overlooked aspect of IoT security. Intrusion detection tasks are distributed across multiple IoT devices using federated learning principles to protect data privacy, incorporating the DP framework to gauge and minimize information leakage, all while investigating the intricate relationship between privacy and accuracy in pursuit of an ideal compromise. The trade‐off between privacy preservation and model accuracy is investigated by adjusting the privacy loss and noise multiplier. Our research enhances IoT security by introducing a deep learning model for intrusion detection in IoT devices, explores the integration of DP in federated learning framework for IoT and offers guidance on minimizing the accuracy‐privacy trade‐off based on specific privacy and security needs. Our study explores the privacy‐accuracy trade‐off by examining the effects of varying epsilon values on accuracy for various delta values for a range of clients between 5 and 25. We also investigate the influence of several noise multipliers on accuracy and find a consistent accuracy curve, especially around a noise multiplier value of about 0.5. The findings of this study have the possibilities to enhance IoT ecosystem security and privacy, contributing to the IoT landscape's trustworthiness and sustainability.
Breaking barriers: Sunlight‐activated self‐healing polymers with unprecedented photoaging resistance
Authors: Li Yan Mei , Zhang Ze Ping , Rong Min Zhi , Zhang Ming Qiu
Published: July 2024

Sunlight‐triggered self‐healing of polymers has attractive advantages, but the same illumination inevitably causes photoaging. The resulting properties deterioration and shortened lifespan run counter to the desire for self‐healing. Herein, the authors propose an innovative solution by introducing carbazolyl‐based dithiocarbamate units. The proof‐of‐concept crosslinked poly(carbazolyl dithiocarbamates‐urethane) shows that the multitasking reactivities of the dynamic bonds stimulated by the sun's ultraviolet rays concurrently implement self‐healing and improve the photoaging resistance. As reflected by the xenon weatherometer measurements, it retains 73.5% of the original strength after 576 h owing to the effects of hydroperoxide intermediates elimination and fluorescence emission. The anti‐photoaging ability is far superior to the control filled with commercial stabilizer. Meantime, networks rearrangement via dynamic exchange reactions among the sunlight‐sensitive dithiocarbamates and long‐range free radicals transfer are allowed in surface layer and the interior, so that the cracks up to 8.5 mm deep are repaired. The work provides a feasible way to break the bottleneck in application of photochemical self‐healing polymers.
Operational Forecasting of Effective Angular Momentum Functions Fourteen Days Ahead
Authors: Shahvandi Mostafa Kiani , Schartner Matthias , Gou Junyang , Soja Benedikt
Published: July 2024

Forecasts of Earth’s Effective Angular Momentum functions (EAM) are used for different applications, including prediction of Earth Orientation Parameters (EOPs). Since May 2021, the Chair of Space Geodesy at ETH Zurich has been operationally providing accurate EAM forecasts. These forecasts cover the domain of atmosphere, ocean, hydrology, and sea level. They are based on the EAM forecasts by GFZ Potsdam but are corrected and extended to cover a forecasting horizon of two weeks using machine learning techniques. Here, we present a summary of the methodology and the results achieved during the past two years. We demonstrate the enhanced accuracy of our improved EAM functions of up to 50%. Furthermore, we demonstrate the impact on the potential application of utilizing EAM forecasts in the form of ultra-short-term prediction of length of day, where an improved accuracy of up to 19% has been achieved. The improved EAM forecasting product is updated daily and available at https://gpc.ethz.ch/EAM/.
Towards Clock Ties for a Global Geodetic Observing System
Authors: Kodet Jan , Klügel Thomas , Plötz Christian , Probst Willi , Neidhardt Alexander , Schreiber Karl Ulrich
Published: July 2024

International reference frames play a pivotal role in metrological applications related to the Earth sciences, covering critical areas such as geodetic reference frames, global change research, deformation processes, and global mass transport. Despite substantial advancements in measurement precision over the past two decades, there are still discrepancies at the centimeter level presenting a persistent challenge. In this paper, we investigate a promising approach to address these subtle error sources, affecting critical parts of the measurement equipment despite the presence of calibration methods.

We have built a novel measurement constraint, based on a precise clock and active time delay compensation. By comparing the timing signals in a geodetic measurement system constantly against a precisely controlled optical ruler, we can identify variable system delays that were previously inaccessible. In this way, we introduce a novel tie to the geodetic measurement techniques that can even capture instrumental delay variations over several months.
Fermi gas formalism for D-type quiver Chern-Simons theory with non-uniform ranks
Authors: Kubo Naotaka , Nosaka Tomoki
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We construct the Fermi gas formalism for the partition function of supersymmetric Chern-Simons theories with affine D-type quiver diagrams with non-uniform ranks of the gauge groups and Fayet-Illiopoulos parameters by two different approaches: the open string formalism and the closed string formalism. In the closed string formalism approach, we find a novel connection between the partition function of this theory and the partition function of a four-nodes circular quiver supersymmetric Chern-Simons theory. We also studied a symmetry of a density matrix appeared in the closed string formalism. We further calculate the exact values of the partition function for finite N, with which we identified the exponent of the leading non-perturbative effect in 1/N corresponding to the worldsheet instantons in the circular quiver supersymmetric Chern-Simons theories.
How to rule out (g − 2)μ in $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$ with white dwarf cooling
Authors: Foldenauer Patrick , Zink Jaime Hoefken
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In recent years, the gauge group $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$
U

1

L
μ

−

L
τ

has received a lot of attention since it can, in principle, account for the observed excess in the anomalous muon magnetic moment (g − 2)μ, as well as the Hubble tension. Due to unavoidable, loop-induced kinetic mixing with the SM photon and Z, the $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$
U

1

L
μ

−

L
τ

gauge boson A′ can contribute to stellar cooling via decays into neutrinos. In this work, we perform for the first time an ab initio computation of the neutrino emissivities of white dwarf stars due to plasmon decay in a model of gauged $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$
U

1

L
μ

−

L
τ

. A key result is that current observations of the early-stage white dwarf neutrino luminosity at the 30% level exclude previously allowed regions of the parameter space favoured by a simultaneous explanation of the (g – 2)μ and H0 anomalies. In this work, we present the relevant white dwarf cooling limits over the entire A′ mass range. In particular, we have performed a rigorous computation of the luminosities in the resonant regime, where the A′ mass is comparable to the white dwarf plasma frequencies.
Geometric BV for twisted Courant sigma models and the BRST power finesse
Authors: Chatzistavrakidis Athanasios , Ikeda Noriaki , Jonke Larisa
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study twisted Courant sigma models, a class of topological field theories arising from the coupling of 3D 0-/2-form BF theory and Chern-Simons theory and containing a 4-form Wess-Zumino term. They are examples of theories featuring a nonlinearly open gauge algebra, where products of field equations appear in the commutator of gauge transformations, and they are reducible gauge systems. We determine the solution to the master equation using a technique, the BRST power finesse, that combines aspects of the AKSZ construction (which applies to the untwisted model) and the general BV-BRST formalism. This allows for a geometric interpretation of the BV coefficients in the interaction terms of the master action in terms of an induced generalised connection on a 4-form twisted (pre-)Courant algebroid, its Gualtieri torsion and the basic curvature tensor. It also produces a frame independent formulation of the model. We show, moreover, that the gauge fixed action is the sum of the classical one and a BRST commutator, as expected from a Schwarz type topological field theory.
Weight Decompositions on Algebraic Models for Mapping Spaces and Homotopy Automorphisms
Authors: Cirici Joana , Saleh Bashar
Published: July 2024

We obtain restrictions on the rational homotopy types of mapping spaces and of classifying spaces of homotopy automorphisms by means of the theory of positive weight decompositions. The theory applies, in particular, to connected components of holomorphic maps between compact Kähler manifolds as well as homotopy automorphisms of Kähler manifolds.
CD74 is a functional MIF receptor on activated CD4+ T cells
Authors: Zhang Lin , Woltering Iris , Holzner Mathias , Brandhofer Markus , Schaefer Carl-Christian , Bushati Genta , Ebert Simon , Yang Bishan , Muenchhoff Maximilian , Hellmuth Johannes C. , Scherer Clemens , Wichmann Christian , Effinger David , Hübner Max , El Bounkari Omar , Scheiermann Patrick , Bernhagen Jürgen , Hoffmann Adrian
Published: July 2024

Next to its classical role in MHC II-mediated antigen presentation, CD74 was identified as a high-affinity receptor for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a pleiotropic cytokine and major determinant of various acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Recent evidence suggests that CD74 is expressed in T cells, but the functional relevance of this observation is poorly understood. Here, we characterized the regulation of CD74 expression and that of the MIF chemokine receptors during activation of human CD4+ T cells and studied links to MIF-induced T-cell migration, function, and COVID-19 disease stage. MIF receptor profiling of resting primary human CD4+ T cells via flow cytometry revealed high surface expression of CXCR4, while CD74, CXCR2 and ACKR3/CXCR7 were not measurably expressed. However, CD4+ T cells constitutively expressed CD74 intracellularly, which upon T-cell activation was significantly upregulated, post-translationally modified by chondroitin sulfate and could be detected on the cell surface, as determined by flow cytometry, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and re-analysis of available RNA-sequencing and proteomic data sets. Applying 3D-matrix-based live cell-imaging and receptor pathway-specific inhibitors, we determined a causal involvement of CD74 and CXCR4 in MIF-induced CD4+ T-cell migration. Mechanistically, proximity ligation assay visualized CD74/CXCR4 heterocomplexes on activated CD4+ T cells, which were significantly diminished after MIF treatment, pointing towards a MIF-mediated internalization process. Lastly, in a cohort of 30 COVID-19 patients, CD74 surface expression was found to be significantly upregulated on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in patients with severe compared to patients with only mild disease course. Together, our study characterizes the MIF receptor network in the course of T-cell activation and reveals CD74 as a novel functional MIF receptor and MHC II-independent activation marker of primary human CD4+ T cells.
Lactate modulates zygotic genome activation through H3K18 lactylation rather than H3K27 acetylation
Authors: Zhao Yanhua , Zhang Meiting , Huang Xingwei , Liu Jiqiang , Sun Yuchen , Zhang Fan , Zhang Na , Lei Lei
Published: July 2024

In spite of its essential role in culture media, the precise influence of lactate on early mouse embryonic development remains elusive. Previous studies have implicated lactate accumulation in medium affecting histone acetylation. Recent research has underscored lactate-derived histone lactylation as a novel epigenetic modification in diverse cellular processes and diseases. Our investigation demonstrated that the absence of sodium lactate in the medium resulted in a pronounced 2-cell arrest at the late G2 phase in embryos. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the absence of sodium lactate significantly impaired the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT), particularly in zygotic gene activation (ZGA). Investigations were conducted employing Cut&Tag assays targeting the well-studied histone acetylation and lactylation sites, H3K18la and H3K27ac, respectively. The findings revealed a noticeable reduction in H3K18la modification under lactate deficiency, and this alteration showed a significant correlation with changes in gene expression. In contrast, H3K27ac exhibited minimal correlation. These results suggest that lactate may preferentially influence early embryonic development through H3K18la rather than H3K27ac modifications.
Cardiac disease-induced trauma and stress-related disorders
Authors: Princip Mary , Ledermann Katharina , Altwegg Rahel , von Känel Roland
Published: July 2024

Objective

This review aims to present an updated overview of cardiac disease-induced trauma and stress-related disorders such as acute stress disorder (ASD), adjustment disorder (AjD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). First, the prevalence of these disorders, their diagnostic criteria, and their differences from other trauma-related disorders are described. Special challenges in diagnosis and treatment are identified, with various screening tools being evaluated for symptom assessment. Additionally, the risk factors studied so far for the development of symptoms of cardiac-induced posttraumatic stress disorder and the bidirectional relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder and cardiovascular diseases are summarized. Various therapeutic interventions, including pharmacological approaches, are also discussed. Finally, various areas for future research are outlined.

Background

Experiencing a cardiovascular disease, particularly a life-threatening cardiac event, can potentially lead to stress-related disorders such as ASD, AjD, and cardiac disease-induced PTSD (CDI-PTSD). If left untreated, these disorders are associated with a worsening cardiac prognosis and higher mortality rates. Approaching treatment through a trauma-focused lens may be beneficial for managing CDI-PTSD and stress-related disorders.

Conclusion

Future research should explore treatment options for both the patients and the caregivers as well as investigate the long-term effects of trauma-focused interventions on physical and mental health outcomes.
Key performance indicators in pre-hospital response to disasters and mass casualty incidents: a scoping review
Authors: Markou-Pappas Nikolaos , Lamine Hamdi , Ragazzoni Luca , Caviglia Marta
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to offer a comprehensive synthesis of the existing Key performance indicators (KPIs) used in the evaluation of the pre-Hospital response to disasters and mass casualty incidents (MCIs).

Methods

At the end of December 2022 a scoping review has been performed on PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Medline to identify articles describing the use of KPIs to assess the performance of first responders during the prehospital phase of an MCI (real or simulated). Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, fourteen articles were included in the analysis.

Results

Eleven articles applied indicators in exercises and/or simulations. Two articles proposed new KPIs, and one used KPIs for developing a model for benchmarking pre-Hospital response. All articles analyzed quantitative indicators of time, whereas two studied indicators of structure, of process, and of outcome as well.

Conclusion

The findings from this review emphasize the need for employing common terminology and using uniformed data collection tools, if obtaining standardized evaluation method is the goal to be achieved.
Compatibility between resin tapping management of Pinus pinaster during the last three years and its uses as solid wood
Authors: González-Prieto Óscar , Alegre Rosa , Picos Juan , Martínez Chamorro Enrique
Published: July 2024

Unlike the conventional resin tapping processes throughout long periods of time or the complete life of the trees, in which the cellular and physical–mechanical characteristics of the whole wood could be modified, the resin tapping system, only in the last years before the ideal-timber cutting shift, shows no significant influence on some physical–mechanical timber properties. Samples of one-face and two-face resin-tapped trees were compared with samples of untapped tress. Using wood density as a reference property in solid wood and after checking the normality of the samples, no significant differences were observed. Therefore, according to the results of this work, the tapping process in the last three years combined with timber logging should not affect or limit its use as solid wood. For a better adjustment in the study, untapped wood and wood from resin tapping logs of the furthest (upper) and closest (lower) part from the tapping area were compared. The wood density mean values were, respectively for the upper and lower areas: 557 kg/m3 and 570 kg/m3 for one-face resin-tapped wood; 567 kg/m3 and 564 kg/m3 for two-face resin-tapped wood; and 556 kg/m3 and 560 kg/m3 for untapped wood. The tapping techniques used in the study are identified as common extract methods, and, according to the results, adequate added value with multifunctional forest use without a potential depreciation in the mechanical properties was found.
Virtual home staging and relighting from a single panorama under natural illumination
Authors: Ji Guanzhou , Sawyer Azadeh O. , Narasimhan Srinivasa G.
Published: July 2024

Virtual staging technique can digitally showcase a variety of real-world scenes. However, relighting indoor scenes from a single image is challenging due to unknown scene geometry, material properties, and outdoor spatially-varying lighting. In this study, we use the High Dynamic Range (HDR) technique to capture an indoor panorama and its paired outdoor hemispherical photograph, and we develop a novel inverse rendering approach for scene relighting and editing. Our method consists of four key components: (1) panoramic furniture detection and removal, (2) automatic floor layout design, (3) global rendering with scene geometry, new furniture objects, and the real-time outdoor photograph, and (4) virtual staging with new camera position, outdoor illumination, scene texture, and electrical light. The results demonstrate that a single indoor panorama can be used to generate high-quality virtual scenes under new environmental conditions. Additionally, we contribute a new calibrated HDR (Cali-HDR) dataset that consists of 137 paired indoor and outdoor photographs. The animation for virtual rendered scenes is availablehere.
CT radiomics combined with clinical and radiological factors predict hematoma expansion in hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Yu Fei , Yang Mingguang , He Cheng , Yang Yanli , Peng Ying , Yang Hua , Lu Hong , Liu Heng
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to establish a hematoma expansion (HE) prediction model for hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH) patients by combining CT radiomics, clinical information, and conventional imaging signs.

Methods

A retrospective continuous collection of HICH patients from three medical centers was divided into a training set (n = 555), a validation set (n = 239), and a test set (n = 77). Extract radiomics features from baseline CT plain scan images and combine them with clinical information and conventional imaging signs to construct radiomics models, clinical imaging sign models, and hybrid models, respectively. The models will be evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC), clinical decision curve analysis (DCA), net reclassification index (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI).

Results

In the training, validation, and testing sets, the radiomics model predicts an AUC of HE of 0.885, 0.827, and 0.894, respectively, while the clinical imaging sign model predicts an AUC of HE of 0.759, 0.725, and 0.765, respectively. Glasgow coma scale score at admission, first CT hematoma volume, irregular hematoma shape, and radiomics score were used to construct a hybrid model, with AUCs of 0.901, 0.838, and 0.917, respectively. The DCA shows that the hybrid model had the highest net profit rate. Compared with the radiomics model and the clinical imaging sign model, the hybrid model showed an increase in NRI and IDI.

Conclusion

The hybrid model based on CT radiomics combined with clinical and radiological factors can effectively individualize the evaluation of the risk of HE in patients with HICH.

Clinical relevance statement

CT radiomics combined with clinical information and conventional imaging signs can identify HICH patients with a high risk of HE and provide a basis for clinical-targeted treatment.

Key Points

HE is an important prognostic factor in patients with HICH.

The hybrid model predicted HE with training, validation, and test AUCs of 0.901, 0.838, and 0.917, respectively.

This model provides a tool for a personalized clinical assessment of early HE risk.
A visual marker for early atrophy of the supraspinatus muscle on conventional MRI: introduction of the blackbird sign
Authors: Feuerriegel Georg C. , Marcus Roy P. , Goller Sophia S. , Marth Adrian A. , Wieser Karl , Bouaicha Samy , Sutter Reto
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to introduce the blackbird sign as a fast, qualitative measure of early supraspinatus (SSP) muscle atrophy and to correlate the sign with quantitatively assessed muscle volume and intramuscular fat fraction (FF) in patients with full-thickness SSP tears.

Materials and methods

The blackbird sign describes the asymmetric pattern of early SSP atrophy: on sagittal MR images, the supero–posterior contour of the muscle becomes concave, resembling the shape of a blackbird. MRIs of patients with full-thickness SSP tears were retrospectively reviewed for the presence of the blackbird and tangent signs. Patients were then divided into group 1: negative tangent sign and negative blackbird sign (n = 67), group 2: negative tangent sign and positive blackbird sign (n = 31), and group 3: positive tangent sign (n = 32). A 2-point Dixon sequence was acquired in all patients from which quantitative FF and muscle volumes were calculated.

Results

In total 130 patients (mean age 67 ± 11 years) were included. Mean SSP volume was significantly smaller in group 3 (15.8 ± 8.1 cm3) compared to group 2 (23.9 ± 7.0 cm3, p = 0.01) and group 1 (29.7 ± 9.1 cm3, p < 0.01). Significantly lower muscle volumes were also found in group 2 compared to group 1 (p = 0.02), confirming that the blackbird sign is able to identify early SSP atrophy. Mean FF in the SSP was significantly higher in group 3 (18.5 ± 4.4%) compared to group 2 (10.9 ± 4.7%, p < 0.01) and group 1 (6.1 ± 2.6%, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Visual assessment of early muscle atrophy of the SSP is feasible and reproducible using the blackbird sign, allowing the diagnosis of early SSP atrophy.

Clinical relevance statement

In routine clinical practice, the blackbird sign may be a useful tool for assessing early muscle degeneration before the risk of postoperative rotator cuff re-tears increases with progressive muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration.

Key Points

Quantitative measurements of rotator cuff injuries require time, limiting clinical practicality.

The proposed blackbird sign is able to identify early SSP atrophy.

Reader agreement for the blackbird sign was substantial, demonstrating reproducibility and ease of implementation in the clinical routine.
Reconstruction of mechanical leg axis using non-modular cemented hinged prosthesis in complex primary total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Jacob Benjamin , Jacob Nadja , Röhner Eric , Wassilew Georgi , Matziolis Georg , Heinecke Markus
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Modular cementless knee arthroplasty systems are capable of precise reconstruction of the mechanical axis. However, they are considered more susceptible to complications. In contrast, non-modular cemented systems are said to be more forgiving and show good long-term results. The aim of this study was to investigate the resulting leg axis after implantation of a non-modular cemented rotating hinged knee prosthesis. Furthermore, potential risk factors for the occurrence of malalignment and complications should be identified.

Methods

Between 2005 and 2015, 115 patients could be included in this monocentric retrospective cohort study. All patients underwent primary hinged non-modular cemented total knee arthroplasty. Preoperative and postoperative standardized long radiographs were analysed to determine resulting leg axis. Furthermore, epidemiological and intraoperative data as well as perioperative complications were surveyed.

Results

Average leg axis was 5.8° varus preoperatively and 0.6° valgus postoperatively. Considering an axis deviation of 3° as the target corridor, 27% of all cases examined were outside the desired range. 21% cases showed a femoral deviation from the target corridor and 15% showed a tibial deviation. There was a significant relationship between the preoperative mLDFA and the mechanical alignment of the femoral component (R = 0.396, p < 0.001) as well as between the preoperative mMPTA and the mechanical alignment of the tibial component (R = 0.187, p = 0.045). The mean operative duration was 96 min. No periprosthetic fractures were observed within the study cohort.

Conclusion

The main result of the present work is that a non-modular cemented rotating hinged knee arthroplasty system can reconstruct the mechanical leg axis precisely and comparable to modular cementless and unconstrained total knee prostheses. Component malalignment is primarily dependent upon extraarticular deformity preoperatively. Periprosthetic fracture rates and duration of surgery were lower compared with current literature.

Level of evidence

Level III: Retrospective cohort study.