bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brown fat-specific mitoribosomal function is crucial for preventing cold exposure-induced bone loss
Authors: Tian Jingwen , Moon Ji Sun , Nga Ha Thi , Lee Ho Yeop , Nguyen Thi Linh , Jang Hyo Ju , Setoyama Daiki , Shong Minho , Lee Ju Hee , Yi Hyon-Seung
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the relationship between ambient temperature, brown adipose tissue (BAT) function, and bone metabolism, revealing how cold exposure and BAT mitochondrial activity influence bone health. Utilizing ovariectomized (OVX) mice to model primary osteoporosis and BAT-specific mitochondrial dysfunction (BKO) mice, we explored the effects of housing temperature on bone density, immune modulation in bone marrow, and the protective role of BAT against bone loss. The results showed that cold exposure universally decreases bone mass, increases osteoclastogenesis, and shifts bone marrow T-cell populations, suggesting a key role of the immune system in bone remodeling under cold stress. Crucially, the thermogenic function of BAT, underpinned by mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, protected against bone loss. Impairments in BAT function, either through surgical removal or mitochondrial dysfunction, exacerbated bone loss in cold environments, highlighting the importance of BAT metabolic activity for bone health. Additionally, we found that cold-induced alterations in BAT function led to systemic metabolic changes, including increased long-chain fatty acid levels, which directly and indirectly affected osteoclast differentiation and activity. These findings point to a systemic mechanism via which environmental temperature and BAT metabolism are interconnected with bone physiology, offering new insights into the metabolic and environmental determinants of bone health. In summary, our study underscores the complex interactions between ambient temperature, BAT function, and bone health, suggesting that novel bone disease therapies could be developed by targeting metabolic and environmental factors. Further research in these pathways may provide innovative approaches for managing bone health amid changing environmental conditions and metabolic dysfunctions.
Mental health issues in Adolescents Living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Azeem Mohammed Abdul , BHAT Kamalakshi G , Gomes Rochelle Natasha , Dsa Smitha Sharlette
Published: June 2024

The Highly-Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) has revolutionized the management of People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in recent years, however with existing drawbacks with respect to drug resistance, adherence, complications, and importantly, mental health problems. Before the age of 14, half of all severe adult psychiatric issues occur, although therapy generally does not begin for another 6–23 years. We conducted a cross sectional study in adolescents in an ART centre affiliated to a tertiary care district level to assess the proportion of stigma, depression, the correlation between stigma and depression and between the CD4 count, duration/ stage of illness to stigma and depression. We administered the HIV Felt Stigma Scale (HFSS) to assess stigma and Centre for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D) questionnaire to assess depression. 92.8% felt stigma and 66.3% of the study participants were moderately stigmatised. The proportion of depression was 20.5%, and a statistically significant correlation being observed in between stigma and depression (p value-0.020) and between depression and CD4 count (0.024). A statistically significant association was observed between the total Leukocyte Count and depression (0.01). Therefore, the assessment of youth for stigma leading onto depression allows early intervention in the treatment of depression before symptoms worsen, thereby overcoming a few important barriers to healthy behaviours like adherence to treatment and safer sexual behaviour and aid in reducing the harmful effects of stigma and depression among adolescents with HIV/AIDS. Trial registration number and date of application: not applicable
High risk factors for massive haemorrhage during medical abortion patients with missed miscarriage
Authors: Tan Yuru , Li Sen , Xu Hong , Wang Shuying
Published: June 2024

Background Recently, the incidence of missed miscarriage has gradually increased, and medical abortion is a common method to terminate a pregnancy. In the process of medical abortion, massive vaginal bleeding takes place, leading to emergency surgical haemostasis. Emergency surgery may produce infection and organ damage. Our study aimed to investigate the high-risk factors for massive haemorrhage during a medical abortion. Methods A total of 1062 missed miscarriage patients who underwent medical abortion participated in this retrospective study.According to the amounts of bleeding, the patients were divided into massive haemorrhage group and control group.By comparing the general conditions of the two groups, such as fertility history, uterine surgery history, uterine fibroids, etc, the high-risk factors for massive haemorrhage during medical abortion were identified. Results Relative to the control group, the massive haemorrhage group exhibited a higher proportion of patients with a previous artificial abortion (51.9% vs. 38.1%, P = 0.001). Additionally, the massive haemorrhage group had a lower percentage of first-time pregnant women (32.1% vs. 40.4%) and a higher proportion of women with shorter pregnancy intervals (44.9% vs. 33.1%, P = 0.03). Furthermore, there were notable differences between the two groups regarding maximum fibroid size, the duration of amenorrhea, and gestational week (P < 0.05). Conclusion In this study, we determined that a history of artificial abortion and an amenorrhea duration > 11 weeks represented high-risk factors for massive vaginal bleeding during medical abortion in missed miscarriage patients.
Protocol for the SELECT study: a sequential mixed methods study of the selection of UK medical students into clinical academic training
Authors: Byrne Matthew Henry Vincent , Chan Claudia , Karas Akamiya , Lynn Eabha , Dominic Catherine , Bain Robert , Wan Jonathan C M , Clelland Andrew , Hayes Siena , Asif Aqua , Bluemel Anna Harvey , Mogg Jasper , Lawrence Leigh , Church Helen , Finn Gabrielle , Brown Megan
Published: June 2024

Background
Internationally, there has been a move towards fostering diverse healthcare workforces that are representative of the patient populations they serve. Selection criteria for academic-clinicians often aim to capture skills and attributes that demonstrate both clinical and academic excellence. Currently, it is not known whether the selection criteria for early academic-clinical careers advantage or disadvantage certain ethnic or socioeconomic groups. The UK has a structured route of integrated clinical academic training with entry level training for newly qualified doctors administered through the ‘Specialised Foundation Programme’ which provides protected time for research within the first two years of postgraduate clinical training. In this study, we aim to identify what selection criteria are used within the UK Specialised Foundation Programme, and how these relate to demographic factors.
Methods
We will perform a mixed methods study consisting of a document analysis of person specifications and selection criteria used in the 2024 UK Specialised Foundation Programme, and a national cross-sectional survey of current medical students in the UK. We will obtain the person specifications, selection criteria, white space (open ended questions used during shortlisting) and interview questions and mark schemes from each Specialised Unit of Applications via information available on their websites or through Freedom of Information requests. Our survey will collect information relating to demographic data, selection criteria, and perceptions of specialised foundation programme selection.
Discussion
International literature has demonstrated inequity in academic markers used in selection of post-graduate clinicians and that disadvantages caused by selection can compound over time. As such it is important to understand what inequity exists within the selection of early academic-clinicians, as this can help inform more equitable selection practices and help nurture a more diverse academic-clinical workforce.
Trial Registration
Not applicable
A model for predicting AKI after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery in Chinese patients with normal preoperative renal function.
Authors: Lin Xuan , Xiao Li , Lin Weibin , Wang Dahui , Xu Kangqing , Kuang Liting
Published: June 2024

Objective
The objective of this study is to establish and validate a predictive model for the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery in Chinese patients with preoperative renal function within normal range.
Method
From January 2015 to September 2022, a total of 1003 patients were added into the analysis. We used the ratio of 7:3 to divide the patients into a training group (n = 700) and a testing group (n = 303). Independent risk factors for postoperative AKI were identified through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and multifactor logistic regression analysis. A nomogram predictive model was then established. Various metrics such as the Area Under the ROC curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve were used for validation of the nomogram predictive model in the training and testing groups. Additionally, the nomogram model was compared with three conventional models (Cleveland Clinic score, Mehta score, and Simplified Renal Index (SRI) score) using the AUC, calibration curve, and decision curve.
Results
The AKI group had a worse prognosis. Age, Body mass index (BMI), emergent surgery, CPB time, intraoperative use of adrenaline, and postoperative procalcitonin (PCT) were identified as important risk factors for AKI after CPB surgery. The nomogram predictive model demonstrated good discrimination (AUC: 0.772 (95%CI: 0.735 − 0.809) and 0.780 (95% CI: 0.724 − 0.835) ), calibration (Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit test: P-value 0.6941 and 0.9539) and clinical utility in both the training and testing groups. Moreover, our model exhibited better discrimination, calibration capacity, and superior net benefit compared to the other three conventional models.
Conclusion
The nomogram predictive model, which established in patients with normal preoperative renal function, has high accuracy, calibration and clinical utility. The model's performance is superior to the other three conventional models (Cleveland Clinic score, Mehta score, and SRI score).
Multiple oral manifestations in a patient with chronic GVHD: a case report and literature review
Authors: Li Duo , Shan Yidan , Sun Weilian , Wang Xiangjian
Published: June 2024

Background Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is now the standard treatment for hematopoietic system malignancies, congenital or bought hematopoietic disorders, and is also used as a treatment option for certain solid tumors. Post-transplant graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) has also become a major complication for patients undergoing transplantation. Chronic GVHD (cGVHD) occurs more than one hundred days after transplantation, and a variety of oral manifestations may occur, requiring multidisciplinary management to prevent deterioration of the condition while improving the patient's quality of life.Case presentation: A 60-year-old woman developed dry mouth, oral pain, brown-yellow tongue, caries 7 years after receiving HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) -matched unrelated donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; the examination revealed The examination revealed a brown-yellow hairy tongue, extensive tooth decay, reduced saliva production, and white patches in the mouth.; the auxiliary examination revealed that the patient has dysfunction of the salivary and lacrimal glands, as well as oral leukoplakia with mild epithelial hyperplasia.. After proper treatment, at a follow-up of 6 months, the patient's symptoms disappeared without recurrence.Conclusion This patient with oral cGVHD exhibits a variety of oral manifestations, which are interconnected, emphasizing the importance of professional diagnosis, relevant interventions, and regular monitoring of these lesions for a favorable prognosis.
Beyond Human Bias: Learning from CNNs’
Superior Insights in Satellite-Based Poverty
Mapping
Authors: Sarmadi Hamid , Wahab Ibrahim , Hall Ola , Rögnvaldsson Thorsteinn , Ohlsson Mattias
Published: June 2024

Background: Satellite imagery is a potent tool for estimating human wealth and poverty, especially in regions lacking reliable data. This study compares a range of poverty estimation approaches from satellite images, spanning from expert-based to fully machine learning-based methodologies.
Methods: Human experts ranked clusters from the DHS survey using high-resolution satellite images. Then expert-defined features were utilized in a machine learning algorithm to estimate poverty. An explainability method was applied to assess the importance and interaction of these features in poverty prediction. Additionally, a convolutional neural network (CNN) was employed to estimate poverty from low-resolution satellite images of the same locations.
Findings: Our analysis indicates that increased human involvement in poverty estimation diminishes accuracy compared to machine learning involvement. Expert defined features exhibited significant overlap and poor interaction when used together in a classifier. Conversely, the CNN-based approach outperformed human experts, demonstrating superior predictive capability with low-resolution images.
Significance: These findings highlight the importance of leveraging machine learning explainability methods to identify predictive elements that may be overlooked by human experts. This study advocates for the integration of emerging technologies with traditional methodologies to optimize data collection and analysis of poverty and welfare.
Liquefaction potential of upstream tailings dams using a nonlinear elastoplastic constitutive model
Authors: Mamakani Ramin Salamat , Azhari Amin , Kaunda Rennie , Faramarzi Lohrasb , Isfahani Hajar Share
Published: June 2024

Liquefaction is the major failure mode of tailing dams during earthquakes according to ICOLD report, 2001. This study aims to assess the liquefaction potential at different depths considering (N1)60 values of the Sphordi phosphate tailing dam using empirical and FDM numerical approaches based on the non-linear Finn-Byrne constitutive model. The effect of four actual recorded earthquakes with different PGA levels namely, Bafgh (2005, PGA:0.13), Parkfield (1996, PGA:0.27), Erzincan (1992, PGA:0.5), and Tabas (1978, PGA:0.86) have been investigated on the liquefaction of the studied tailings dam. The liquefaction coefficient (ru), liquefaction safety factor (FSL), and liquefaction potential index (LPI) were assessed. The results revealed that generally by increasing (N1)60 from 2 to 6 the ru decreases 50 percent. Moreover, the FSL values obtained from empirical and numerical approaches show a good agreement in which the FSL increases 55% with increasing depth ((N1)60 values of 2 to 6). To examine the liquefaction potential of tailing dams, in addition to liquefaction index values including ru, FSL, and LPI, it is necessary to assess the liquefied extension zone of tailings. Evaluating LPI classification depicts that at low seismic levels (PGA:0.13) the tailings fall into the non-liquefied class and at high seismic level (PGA:0.86), very high liquefaction potential has been observed at 71% of the tailings area. Finally, the results provide a better understanding of the tailings compaction on the liquefaction potential at different seismic levels.
Physical exercise attenuates the negative effects of short-term exposure to medium air pollution levels on cardio-respiratory responses
Authors: Jin Xingsheng , Wang Weiyi , Sun Qian , Chen Yang , Xu Bingxiang , Tian Haili
Published: June 2024

Background
Air pollution (AP) has become a substantial environmental issue affecting human cardiorespiratory health. Physical exercise (PE) is widely accepted to promote cardiorespiratory health. There is a paucity of research on the point at which the level of polluted environment engaged in PE could be used as a preventive approach to compensate for the damages of AP.
Objectives
To determine the effects of PE on cardio-respiratory and inflammatory responses in different levels of short-term exposure to AP among healthy young adults.
Methods
We constructed a real-world crossover study of 30 healthy young adults with repeated measures. Participants participated in 90 min of moderate-intensity PE in different (low, medium, high) AP exposure scenarios. Cardiorespiratory measurements and blood samples were collected before and after the intervention. The percentage changes in cardiorespiratory health markers after exercise in the three AP levels environments were compared using linear mixed-effects models.
Results
Compared to the changes observed post-exercise in the low-level AP environment, only PEF (-9.36, P = 0.018) showed a significant decrease, and eosinophils showed a significant increase in the medium-level environment (25.64, P = 0.022), with no significant differences in other indicators. Conversely, post-exercise in the high-level AP environment resulted in a significant increase in DBP (6.5, P = 0.05), lung inflammation (FeNO: 13.3, p < 0.001), inflammatory cell counts (WBC: 27.0, p < 0.001; neutrophils: 26.8, p < 0.001; lymphocytes: 32.2, p < 0.001; monocytes: 28.2, p < 0.001; and eosinophils: 48.9, p < 0.001), and inflammatory factors (IL-1β: 0.76, P = 0.003; IL-10: 0.17, P = 0.02; IL-6: 0.1, P = 0.17; TNF-α: 0.97, P = 0.011; CRP: 0.17, P = 0.003). Additionally, there were significant declines in lung function parameters, including FVC (-6.84, P = 0.04), FEV1 (-8.97, P = 0.009), and PEF (-9.50, P = 0.013).
Conclusions
PE in medium and low-level AP environments seems relatively safe for cardiorespiratory health among healthy young adults. However, PE in high-level AP environments can be detrimental to cardiorespiratory health, significantly increasing the body's inflammatory response.
Periodontal health in a large cohort of Ugandans living with HIV: A cross-sectional study
Authors: William Buwembo , Adriane Kamulegeya , Dunstan Kalanzi , Naava Namuyonga Priscilla , Proscovia Nakasujja , P Katete David , Collins Semitala F. , Catherine Mwesigwa-Lutalo , Samuel Kalungi , E Cameron Jennnifer , G Munabi Ian
Published: June 2024

Background
The impact of periodontitis on large populations of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in resource-constrained settings remains largely un-investigated. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by providing a comprehensive description of the periodontal health status among a sizable cohort of Ugandans living with HIV.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study with 4,449 participants who were over 18-years old and captured their reported age, gender, tobacco use, length of time on HAART and alcohol use. Periodontal health was assessed using the WHO periodontal probe and the modified CPI data entry form. Descriptive statistics were reported using frequencies for the affected number of sextants in the surveyed participants. This was followed by additional regression analysis using the R statistical computing environment, with the periodontal health outcomes (bleeding on probing, pocket depth and clinical attachment loss) individually as the dependant, recoded as binary outcomes. A multilevel model was run with clinical attachment loss as the dependant variable controlling for all the other factors. The 95% confidence intervals were used to report the level of significance for each test.
Results
There were 3,103/4,449 (69.7%) female participants. The mean age was 44.3 years (SD 10.1 years) with a range of 18 to 89 years. About 66% of the participants had bleeding on probing at one or more of the examined sites/tooth surfaces. The odds for bleeding on probing were significantly higher for female participants (adjusted Odds ratio: 1.49, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.86), and higher in individuals who reported tobacco use (adjusted odds ratio 1.62, 95% CI 1.09 to 2.41). Slightly under half of our participants (48.2%) had moderate to severe clinical attachment loss.
Conclusions
This study found that among Ugandans living with HIV, periodontal disease is a significant public health concern. The majority (66%) had bleeding on probing, with a sizeable number (48.2%) of participants recording moderate to severe clinical attachment loss, worsened by age and time on HAART. This highlight the need for comprehensive oral health care and targeted interventions for this population.
Detection and quantification by molecular techniques of early infection by Lawsonia intracellularis in suckling piglets.
Authors: Rodríguez-Vega Victor , Puente Hector , Carvajal Ana , Pérez-Pérez Lucia , Gómez-Martínez Samuel , Leite Fernando , Garcia Rocio , Abella Lola , Argüello Héctor
Published: June 2024

Background
Lawsonia intracellularis is the causative agent of Porcine Proliferative Enteropathy (PPE), one of the most prevalent pig enteric diseases worldwide, but with sparse information about role of sows and suckling piglets as a source of infection. With that aim, this study evaluates the prevalence of L. intracellularis in 3-week-old piglets by analysing ileal digesta content and mucosal scrapings from 383 pigs from 16 batches (aprox., 25 pigs/batch) by real-time qPCR and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR).
Results
Forty-nine samples yielded a qPCR positive result. Eleven samples from eight batches were confirmed as positive with concentrations of L. intracellularis from 3.5 log10 to 4.5 log10 bacteria/g of sample. Another 16 samples, eight batches, were classified as low positive (2.07-2.38 log10 bacteria/g) and 22 provided an uncertain result. Finally, 334 samples tested negative for L. intracellularis. At batch level, half of the batches included in the study had at least one positive sample and in 10 batches (62.5%) there was at least one low positive sample.
The ddPCR was run in 50 of the 383 samples based on their PCR output (including low positive, uncertain and negative samples). Correlation analyses revealed a strong association between qPCR and the ddPCR results (ρ=0.75; p<0.001). The ddPCR allowed us to detect and confirm a positive result in the 19 samples classified as uncertain by the qPCR and detect L. intracellularis in 8 of 15 negatives negative by qPCR.
Conclusions
The results of the study demonstrate that a number of piglets already are infected with L. intracellularis during the lactation period underlining the potential role of sow-piglet transmission in the epidemiology of PPE. Study results also evidence the usefulness of a combination of qPCR and ddPCR to improve qPCR sensitivity but assuring high specificity.
Neurological Complications, Mortality Risk Factors, and Prognosis in Pediatric COVID-19 Patients: Insights from a Three-Year Prospective Study at the University Children’s Hospital in Damascus.
Authors: Badour Maysaa , Martini Nafiza , Hanna Majd , Kababeh Karam , Almasri Imad-Addin , Ali Sawssan , Baqla Sameer
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim: The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has had a significant global impact, but its neurological manifestations in children have received limited attention. The aim of this study was to prospectively examine the neurological complications, identify mortality risk factors, and assess the predictive value of biomarkers in pediatric COVID-19 patients.Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted from 2020 to 2023. Children aged from the neonatal period to 13 years, hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19, were included. Data on demographics, neurological comorbidities, symptoms, neurological examination findings, radiological and electrophysiological results, laboratory findings, treatments, and outcomes were collected. Chi-square tests and ROC curves were performed.Results Among the 66 hospitalized children, seizures (59.1%) and altered consciousness (30.3%) were common neurological manifestations. The occurrence of seizures correlated significantly with gender, with males having a higher likelihood of developing epilepsy (P = 0.0044). Seizures were also found to be a risk factor for death, as the majority of children who died had experienced seizures (P = 0.046). Encephalopathy and encephalopathy in MIS-C were also associated with increased mortality (P = 0.013, < 0.001, respectively). Treatment with Dixon negatively impacted outcomes (P = 0.006), while Immunoglobulins had a positive effect (0.019). Biomarkers including CRP, GPT, BUN, and creatinine were all found to be correlated with death, with elevated values indicating higher mortality risk (P < 0.001). Finally, Mechanical ventilation was associated with higher mortality rates (P = 0.008).Conclusion This study provides significant contributions to our understanding of COVID-19 in children, particularly in terms of clinical and neurological aspects, risk factors, and prognosis. The findings emphasize the importance of early detection, monitoring of biomarkers, and the incorporation of these insights into healthcare policies. By recognizing the unique challenges and implications of COVID-19 in pediatric patients, healthcare providers can enhance patient care and optimize outcomes in the midst of the ongoing pandemic.
Equated volume load: similar improvements in muscle strength, endurance, and hypertrophy for traditional, pre-exhaustion and drop sets in resistance training.
Authors: Keskin Kadir , Gogus Feride Nur , Gunay Mehmet , Fujita Rafael Akira
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study investigated the impact of the equated volume load on three different resistance training methods (traditional, pre-exhaustion and drop sets) on muscle strength, endurance, and hypertrophy in young men.
Methods
Fifty-three recreationally trained men performed a one-week familiarization and were randomized into three groups: traditional (TRT, n = 18), pre-exhaustion (Pre-Ex, n = 17), and drop set (DS, n = 18). All groups were enrolled in a six-week, twice-weekly intervention program. The TRT performed four sets of 8–12 repetitions with 70%1RM for each leg press and leg extension exercises, with three-minute rest between sets. The Pre-Ex performed leg extensions with 30%1RM until exhaustion before each exercise, while the DS performed leg extensions with 30%1RM after the last set of each exercise. We collected data from 1RM leg press and a 5RM leg extension, isometric strength, muscular endurance, and muscle thickness.
Results
revealed that all training methods had significant improvements in muscle strength (p < 0.001), endurance (p < 0.001), and hypertrophy (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusions
Therefore, the TRT, Pre-Ex and DS methods revealed to be equally effective on enhancing muscle strength, endurance, and hypertrophy. Thus, the study did not support the superiority of pre-exhaustion or drop set over traditional resistance training when the volume is equated.
LEAP2, a ghrelin receptor inverse agonist, and its effect on alcohol-related responses in rodents
Authors: Tufvesson-Alm Maximilian , Aranäs Cajsa , Sköldheden Sebastian Blid , Vestlund Jesper , Edvardsson Christian , Jerlhag Elisabet
Published: June 2024

The underlying neurobiology of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is complex and needs further unraveling, with one of the key mechanisms being the gut-brain peptide ghrelin and its receptor (GHSR). However, additional substrates of the ghrelin pathway, such as liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP2), an endogenous GHSR inverse agonist, may contribute to this neurobiological framework. While LEAP2 modulates feeding and reward through central mechanisms, its effects on alcohol responses are unknown. The aim of the present study was therefore to identify the impact of central LEAP2 on the ability of alcohol to activate the mesolimbic dopamine system and to define its ability to control alcohol intake. These experiments revealed that central LEAP2 (i.e. into the third ventricle) prevented the ability of alcohol to cause locomotor stimulation in male mice, suppressed the memory of alcohol reward and attenuated the dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens caused by alcohol. Moreover, central LEAP2 reduced alcohol consumption in both male and female rats exposed to alcohol for 6 weeks before treatment. On the contrary, the serum levels of LEAP2 were similar between high- and low- alcohol-consuming (male) rats. Furthermore, central LEAP2 lowered the food intake in the alcohol-consuming male rats and reduced the body weight in the females. Collectively, the present study revealed that central LEAP2 mitigates alcohol-related responses in rodents, contributing to our understanding of the ghrelin pathway's role in alcohol effects.
Truncated tau interferes with the autophagy and endolysosomal pathway and results in lipid accumulation.
Authors: Pollack Saskia J , Dakkak Dina , Guo Tong , Chennell George , Gomez-Suaga Patricia , Noble Wendy , Jimenez-Sanchez Maria , Hanger Diane P
Published: June 2024

The autophagy-lysosomal pathway plays a critical role in the clearance of tau protein aggregates that deposit in the brain in tauopathies, and defects in this system are associated with disease pathogenesis. Here, we report that expression of Tau35, a tauopathy-associated carboxy-terminal fragment of tau, leads to lipid accumulation in cell lines and primary cortical neurons. Our findings suggest that this is likely due to a deleterious block of autophagic clearance and lysosomal degradative capacity by Tau35. Notably, upon induction of autophagy by Torin 1, Tau35 inhibited nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB), a key regulator of lysosomal biogenesis. Both cell lines and primary cortical neurons expressing Tau35 also exhibited deficits in endosomal protein expression. These findings implicate autophagic and endolysosomal dysfunction as key pathological mechanisms through which disease-associated tau fragments could lead to the development and progression of tauopathy.
Influence of Electroless Copper Coated B 4 C particles Addition on the Hardness, Density and Wear Behavior of Al2025 Alloy Composites
Authors: Shetty Sunil Kumar , R Vijaya Kumar , T Hemanth Raju , Nayak Madhukara , Nagaral Madeva , Auradi V , Nalband Fazil
Published: June 2024

Tensile, impact and wear performance were studied to determine the impact of electroless copper-coated B4C particles additions to Al2025 alloy. The Al2025 alloy composites were produced using the stir cast technique, with 3, 6 and 9 percent of B4C particles (both uncoated and copper coated) utilised to create the composites. The microstructural, mechanical and wear properties of the synthesised composites were tested. To describe the microstructure of the acquired samples, EDS patterns and SEM microscopy were used. The B4C particles were present, according to the EDS findings. The density of Al2025 alloy was decreased with the addition of B4C particles. With the inclusion of 9 weight percent of uncoated and Cu-coated B4C particles, the hardness of the as-cast Al2025 alloy increased to 110.48 BHN and 118.47 BHN, respectively. The wear behaviour of Al2025 alloy with coated and uncoated boron carbide particle composites was studied at 10 N to 40 N varying loads and 100 rpm to 400 rpm varying speeds for a 2500 m sliding distance. More wear resistance was observed in composites reinforced with electroless copper-coated B4C particles than in uncoated composites under the influence of both load and speed. Inspecting SEM micrographs of copper-coated and uncoated composites, it was seen that their wear surfaces take on distinct shapes and textures.
Phosphorus Doping Heterostructure La(OH) 3 @CuO @NF as Advanced Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: LIANG Dandan , HOU Weili , ZHANG Ying , SHANG Jihua , REN Haibo , SUN Yufeng
Published: June 2024

Due to the prevailing energy shortages, the quest for new alternative energy sources is growing increasingly urgent. Hydrogen production through water electrolysis has become a crucial method. However, the slow four-electron reaction in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) becomes the main rate-limiting step. In this study, we propose obtaining heterostructure La(OH)3@CuO-P after composite phosphatisation using nickel foam (NF) as the substrate material. The experimental results demonstrate that the heterostructure La(OH)3@CuO exhibits an overpotential of 365mV at a current density of 10mA/cm2 , and displays a Tafel slope value of 114.02mF/dec, a bilayer capacitance of 1.853mF/cm2 for OER in a 1 M KOH solution. After phosphating, the heterostructure La(OH)3@CuO-P exhibits exceptional catalytic performance with only 215 mV overpotential, a Tafel slope value of 79.36 mV/dec, and a bilayer capacitance of 34.73mF/cm2 at a current density of 10mA/cm2 . Moreover, it also exhibits relatively stable performance during cyclic voltammetry testing for up to1000 cycles. Analyses suggest that the formation of a heterojunction structure in La(OH)3@CuO-P effectively addresses the issues of insufficient conductivity of La(OH)3 and tendency for CuO monomer aggregation while maintaining excellent properties for each component. The substitutional P atom doping not only adjusts the electronic structure and optimizes the adsorption free energy of -OH but also reduces sample size and increases catalytic active sites, thereby further enhancing the OER performance of the material.
Neuropsychological and Psychosocial Assessment of Small and Non- Small Lung Cancer Patients: A Study Protocol
Authors: Capetti Benedetta , Conti Lorenzo Conti , Marzorati Chiara , Chiari Matteo , Casiraghi Monica , Grasso Roberto , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: June 2024

Background
Early diagnosis and effective treatments have favored the survival of cancer patients, but have also generated adverse consequences including cognitive impairment and psychological distress, which are related to both disease progression and the side effects of pharmacological agents. However, there is little data in the literature concerning such adverse effects in patients with lung cancer. This study protocol will investigate the occurrence of cognitive impairment in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) undergoing adjuvant therapies or surgery in the year following enrollment.
Methods
This longitudinal study will recruit around 200 lung cancer patients (NSCLC and SCLC patients). To explore the cognitive profile pre- and post-oncological treatment, a cognitive evaluation will be administered to each lung cancer patient at baseline (T0), 4 (T1), and 12 months (T2) after the end of treatments. A cognitive screening will be assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mini-Mental State Examination. Executive functions will be investigated with the Frontal Assessment Battery, the Stroop Color Word test, the phonemic fluency test, and the Modified Five-point Test. Memory and learning will be examined with Rey's auditory verbal learning test, whereas working memory will be assessed with the Digit Span test and the Corsi Block-tapping Test. Finally, attention will be investigated with the Trail Making Test and the Symbol Digit Modalities Test. In addition, perceived cognitive impairment, anxious and depressive symptoms, cognitive reserve, sleep patterns, and patient's quality of life will be also investigated using self-report tools. The cognitive impairment will be identified by adopting the criteria proposed by the International Cognition and Cancer Task Force (2 + test scores ≤ − 1.5 SDs or 1 + test score ≤ − 2.0 SDs, from the normative mean).
Discussion
The results could have relevant implications for managing cognitive impairment and its impact on the quality of life of lung cancer patients. Through a systematic cognitive assessment and its associated risk factors, this study aims to provide valuable insights into clinical practice, enhancing the development of neuropsychological protocols.
The research on the surface discharge intensity and its damage to the pressboard in oil-paper insulation under different hydraulic pressures
Authors: Hu Guangcai , Yang Daiwen , Zhou Jianbing , Tan Yifang , Wu Jie , Mou Shirong , Lu Qifu , Zhu Xinyu
Published: June 2024

Almost all of the inside conducting components of a power transformer are insulated by oil and paper, which have crucial impact on the transformer’s safety. The degradation of oil-paper insulation is caused by discharge to a major extent, which is affected by hydraulic pressure to a large extent. In this work, the surface partial discharge in oil-paper insulation under different hydraulic pressures is carried out in a set of self-designed test device for the first time. Four discharge parameters were recorded with the help of a commercial partial discharge detector. The partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV) and breakdown voltage increased with pressure, but the rising rates decreased with the increasing of pressure. The difference between the breakdown voltage and the PDIV decreased initially and then increased at a tiny rate with the hydraulic pressure. The discharge parameters tended to decrease with the increase of pressure on the whole, and the average partial discharge value and partial discharge power decreased with no exception. The superficial phenomena and microstructure were displayed and compared to demonstrate the structure destruction caused by discharge. The chemical groups and element contents were observed to deduce the underlying principle of the change on the pressboards. These results are conducive to operating and maintaining oil-paper equipment in high-altitude areas. It also lays the foundation to reduce the size and weight of oil-paper insulation equipment by adjusting hydraulic pressure inside power transformers.
Dimension compensation of desktop LCD 3D printer for high-precision microfluidic applications
Authors: Zhang Xinjie , Liu Yuyang , Bao Yang , Zheng Zixiao , Mi Jian , Tang Yuxin , Zhang Qiwen , Oseyemi Ayobami Elisha
Published: June 2024

Recent advances in low-cost liquid crystal display (LCD) 3D printing have popularized its use in creating microfluidic master molds and complete devices. However, the quality and precision of these fabrications often fall short of the rigorous standards required for advanced microfluidic applications. This study introduces a novel approach to enhance the dimensional accuracy of microchannels produced using a desktop LCD 3D printer. We propose a method for dimension compensation, optimize the printing parameters, and provide a straightforward post-treatment technique to ensure high-quality curing of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) in master molds made from photosensitive resin. Our investigation assesses the precision of 3D printing across three different scales of square cross-section microchannels by measuring their widths and heights, leading to the determination of optimal layer thicknesses that minimize fabrication errors. The fabrication errors are further reduced by introducing a series of dimension compensation factors, which correct the nominal dimensions of the microchannels by using the compensation factors in 3D printing. The printing accuracy is significantly improved after compensation even in fabricating complex microchannels of triangular cross-sections. Finally, a spiral channel of trapezoidal-like cross-section with tilted edges is fabricated for microfluidic application, and highly efficient particle separation is realized in the channel. The proposed method provides new insights for utilizing desktop LCD 3D printers to achieve high-accuracy microstructures necessary for advanced microfluidic applications.
Analyzing Creep Behavior in Overhead Conductors: Experimental Insights and Discussion
Authors: Parvizi Pooya , Tahne Behrooz Abdi , Jalilian Milad , Parvizi Hana , Farahani Ladan , Mokhtarizad Atefeh , Amidi Alireza Mohammadi , Zangeneh Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2024

Improving the transmission and distribution infrastructure is essential given the increasing demand for electricity from consumers, the aging infrastructure, the impacts of climate change, and the evolving requirements of new technologies. Electric utility companies are continuously exploring methods to enhance their overhead lines (OHL), either by uprating with larger conductors or by adopting high-temperature low-sag (HTLS) conductors. The deformation of conductors, known as creep, significantly influences the performance of OHL. While creep behavior is typically investigated through time-consuming and costly experimental methods, this study examines experimental creep tests on various types of HTLS Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported (ACSS) and Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) conductors. Additionally, a novel straightforward relation is proposed based on existing standards and resources to predict the creep of steel-supported conductors reasonably accurately. The proposed relation is compared against diverse test results and subsequently discussed.
Unveiling liver parasitism of Echinococcus granulosus mediated by protoscoleces-derived small extracellular vesicles
Authors: Yang Guangyou , Hua Ruiqi , Shao Guoqing , Zhu Xiaowei
Published: June 2024

Long-term liver infection represents a conserved parasitism of E. granulosus in the intermediate hosts. However, mechanisms of mediators driving liver parasitism remain unclear. Here, we elucidated the characteristics and composition of small extracellular vesicles originating from E. granulosus. Further, we unveiled target capacities, regulatory roles, and pathogenic properties of protoscoleces-derived small extracellular vesicles (PSC-sEV), which displayed a key mediator contributing to the pathogenesis of E. granulosus. By utilizing single-cell RNA-seq, we identified heterogeneity in the cell subpopulations (endothelial cells, myeloid cells, NK and T cells) regulated by PSC-sEV during liver infection of E. granulosus. Finally, we proposed a potential mechanism for achieving parasite-host communication through selective internalization of PSC-sEV in target cells and manipulation of cellular functions via miRNA-TF-mRNA networks. Our work underscores intercellular crosstalk landscapes of E. granulosus and host, highlighting the necessity of targeting PSC for therapeutic intervention and potential of PSC-sEV as a diagnostic biomarker.
A Data-driven Approach for FPSO Electric Power System Modelling
Authors: Junior Daniel Araujo , Ferreira Vitor Hugo , Pessoa Arthur Alves , Fortes Marcio Zamboti , Borba Bruno Soares Moreira Cesar , Augusto Andre Abel , Pinho Andre Costa , colombini Angelo Cesar , Boas Daniel Villas , Ramos Marcos Leonardo , Mafra gabriel Queiroga , Cavaliere Carlos André Carreiro
Published: June 2024

Industry 4.0 adoption in the oil and gas sector has introduced numerous AI-driven decision-making tools. However, data-driven modeling for oil platform simulators using historical production data is still relatively unexplored. Floating platforms, such as FPSOs, play a critical role in oil production, particularly in Brazil. Electrical power systems design for these platforms typically employs conservative risk measures, and historical data to determine electrical equipment factors is limited. Therefore, this paper presents the FPSO Power Demand Analytics (FPDA) tool for estimating electrical equipment load on oil and gas platforms, aiding daily production improvements, and supporting the design of new FPSOs based on operational history insights. FPDA is an open-source Python tool compatible with multiple platforms and utilizes historical data analytics and machine learning for modeling. Users can generate electrical diagrams and define loads through a configurable power flow model. FPDA consists of three distinct modules: Knowledge Discovery in Databases (KDD) for preliminary data analysis, Machine Learning (ML) for model training and demand forecasting, and Power Flow (PF) for aggregating demand projections and estimating generator/transformer demand. The algorithms were assessed using data from three different FPSOs with varying sampling periods and temporal horizons. Seven ML models were trained per device to predict active power demand based on process variables, and their performance was evaluated using two test scenarios and various statistical measures. The ML algorithms offered precise projections with minimal computational time, while the power flow module delivered consistent results requiring only a few seconds for simulation, making it suitable for planning environments.
Stable Lateral Heterostructure in All-inorganic Perovskites with Suppressed Halide Ions Migration
Authors: Zhuang Xiujuan , He Junyu , Li Yang , Sun Tongqing , Chu Anshi , Li Min
Published: June 2024

The dangling bonds and surface defects at the grain boundaries of three-dimensional (3D) perovskite provide convenient conditions for non-radiative recombination and ion migration, which degrades the stability of perovskite materials. Herein, we prepared single-component lateral epitaxial heterostructure perovskites using a one-step solution method by rare earth Er3+ doping. Through photoluminescence (PL) and time-resolved PL spectroscopy, the erbium-doped CsPb(BrxI1−x)3 heterostructure microplate forms a stable dual-wavelength emission with enhanced PL intensity and lifetime. We find that rare earth doping can effectively suppress ion migration by improving the ion migration barrier and facilitating the intrinsic stable heterostructure formation with desired dual-wavelength emission and improved radiation recombination rate. The discovery sheds a new perspective on inhibiting ion migration by trivalent B-site doping of rare earth ions and provides a basis for the preparation of single-component heterostructure perovskite.
A single-phase ferroelectric perovskite nitride integrated on silicon
Authors: Guo Er-Jia , Choi Songhee , Jin Qiao , Zi Xian , Zhang Jinfeng , Zhang Qinghua , Li Wei , Xu Shuai , Xu Yiheng , Chen Shengru , Hong Haitao , Cui Ting , Rong Dongke , Wang Qianying , Tang Gang , Ge Chen , Wang Can , Chen Zhi-Guo , GU Lin , Wang Lingfei , Li Qian , Wang Shanmin , Hong Jiawang , Jin Kuijuan
Published: June 2024

The integration of ferroelectrics with semiconductors is crucial for developing functional devices, such as field-effect transistors, tunnel junctions, and nonvolatile memories. However, the synthesis of high-quality single crystalline ferroelectric perovskite nitrides has been limited, hindering a comprehensive understanding of their switching dynamics and potential applications. Here we report the synthesis and characterizations of epitaxial single-phase ferroelectric cerium tantalum nitride (CeTaN3) on silicon. The atomically flat and ultrathin buffer layers provided an excellent template for the epitaxial growth of CeTaN3. The polar symmetry of CeTaN3 was confirmed through the atomic displacement of central ions with respect to the center of TaN6 octahedral and optical second harmonic generation technique. We observed an uneven distribution of ferroelectric microdomains within the films. The remanent polarization of CeTaN3 reaches 20–25 μC/cm² at room temperature, consistent with theoretical calculations. This work establishes a vital link between ferroelectric perovskite nitrides and their practical applications, paving the way for next-generation information and energy-storage devices with enhanced performance, scalability, and manufacturability.