bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the estimation of soil organic carbon using the colour space model, based on visible spectroscopy range, a reliable approach?
Authors: Biney James Kobina Mensah , Houška Jakub , Badreldin Nasem
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, soil colour attributes have been determined using the Munsell Colour Chart (MCC). However, the lack of standardization with this method has made it more difficult to assess soil properties, particularly soil organic carbon (SOC). In contrast, reflectance spectroscopy (RS) across the visible (Vis, 400–800 nm), near‐infrared (NIR, 800–2500 nm) and Vis–NIR (350–2500 nm) spectral regions has been recognized as a more reliable approach for predicting SOC. As a result, soil scientists have increasingly adopted RS to obtain soil colour parameters, addressing the limitations of the MCC. However, because RS techniques for soil colour analysis is typically limited to the VIS range, key information from the NIR and Vis–NIR regions are often neglected or eliminated. This study examined the effectiveness of the VIS‐based colour approach in estimating SOC compared with spectroscopy in the VIS, NIR and Vis–NIR ranges. Fifteen soil colour parameters were derived from the VIS spectrum, and 12 colour indices were calculated from these parameters. Three multivariate models such as random forest (RF), Cubist and support vector machine regression (SVMR) were used for prediction, along with various preprocessing algorithms to remove artefacts. The results indicated that, compared with VIS spectroscopy (R2 = .54) and the VIS‐based colour method (R2 = .45), the pre‐processed Vis–NIR data produced the most accurate results (R2 = .72). This suggests that the VIS range alone lacks adequate information, likely affecting the accuracy of the VIS‐based colour dataset, as it is derived solely from this region. Although the introduction of colour indices slightly improved the VIS‐based colour approach (R2 = .47), the results were still less accurate than those obtained using both the Vis–NIR and NIR spectroscopy ranges or even the VIS range alone (R2 = .54). The findings of this study highlight the need for caution when using VIS‐based colour methods for SOC estimation, as high SOC levels information is not necessarily restricted to the VIS region.
Does Linus' Law Apply to Data Quality in Volunteered Street View Imagery (VSVI)? Mechanisms Contributing to VSVI Data Quality Improvement for Environmental Audits
Authors: Zheng Xinrui , Amemiya Mamoru
Published: December 2024

Street View Imagery (SVI) is crucial for urban environmental audits. Although Volunteered Street View Imagery (VSVI) has the potential to provide higher spatial and temporal resolution than traditional SVI, the use of such user‐generated data is currently limited by the inherent spatial heterogeneity in contributions and unclear quality control. To explore the underlying mechanisms, this study focused on the validity of Linus’ law in VSVI quality improvement in terms of spatial and temporal qualities related to environmental audits, using Mapillary as an example. It is assumed that as the number of street revisits for a road increases, so does the level of data quality. Results from regression and correlation analyses show that Linus’ law applies to VSVI quality improvement with different relationships depending on quality elements and road types. Furthermore, this study determines the number of revisits required to exceed the traditional SVI or achieve a higher quality level.
Sporothrix brasiliensis as the major causative species of the zoonotic outbreak of human sporotrichosis in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: de Souza Guilherme Caldas , de Brito Euzenio Moreira , de Lima Fernandes Débora Cristina , Frota Maria Zeli Moreira , de Araújo Santos Felipe Jules , de Oliveira Ferreira Cynthia , dos Santos Silva Camila Gurgel , Nakajima Silvia Rocha , Pennini Silmara Navarro , Talhari Sinesio , Pedrosa Valderiza Lourenço , Mira Marcelo , Miot Helio Amante , Talhari Carolina , Leturiondo André Luiz
Published: December 2024

Background

Sporotrichosis is a neglected tropical disease and the most common subcutaneous mycosis, mainly caused by Sporothrix species, particularly S. brasiliensis, S. schenckii and S. globosa, which exhibit varying biological behaviours and virulence. The epidemic of sporotrichosis in Brazil, initiated in Rio de Janeiro in the late 1990s, rapidly spread to other states, including Amazonas in 2021. This study aimed to identify the specific Sporothrix species responsible for the human sporotrichosis outbreak in the Brazilian Amazon.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted by enrolling clinically suspected cases of sporotrichosis attended at a reference dermatologic centre, in Manaus (Brazil). Biological material was collected from their skin lesions for culture (Mycosel) and for species identification (qPCR).

Results

Sporothrix cultures were obtained from 150 cases. Sporotrichosis predominantly affected females (67.3%), aged 44.5 years on average, with lymphocutaneous lesions (72.7%). Sporothrix brasiliensis was identified in 89.3% of patients. Up to 83.3% of these patients reported contact with cats previously to the skin lesion, and the time‐spatial progression of the human cases followed the notification of cases in cats, in the metropolitan region of Manaus.

Conclusion

Sporothrix brasiliensis is the dominant species in the zoonotic outbreak of human sporotrichosis in the Brazilian Amazon, with cats identified as the primary vectors. Effective sanitary control measures, education and responsible pet ownership are crucial to mitigating zoonotic sporotrichosis' impact in Brazil and preventing its spread to neighbouring Latin American cities.
On the smooth Whitney fibering conjecture
Authors: Murolo C. , du Plessis A. , Trotman D. J. A.
Published: December 2024

We improve upon the first Thom–Mather isotopy theorem for Whitney stratified sets. In particular, for the more general Bekka stratified sets we show that there is a local foliated structure with continuously varying tangent spaces, thus proving the smooth version of the Whitney fibering conjecture. A regular wing structure is also shown to exist locally, for Bekka stratifications. The proofs involve integrating carefully chosen controlled distributions of vector fields. As an application of our main theorem, we show the density of the subset of strongly topologically stable mappings in the space of all smooth quasi‐proper mappings between smooth manifolds, an improvement of a theorem of Mather.
Nonabelian basechange theorems and étale homotopy theory
Authors: Haine Peter J. , Holzschuh Tim , Wolf Sebastian
Published: December 2024

This paper has two main goals. First, we prove nonabelian refinements of basechange theorems in étale cohomology (i.e., prove analogues of the classical statements for sheaves of spaces). Second, we apply these theorems to prove a number of results about the étale homotopy type. Specifically, we prove nonabelian refinements of the smooth basechange theorem, Huber–Gabber affine analogue of the proper basechange theorem, and Fujiwara–Gabber rigidity theorem. Our methods also recover Chough's nonabelian refinement of the proper basechange theorem. Transporting an argument of Bhatt–Mathew to the nonabelian setting, we apply nonabelian proper basechange to show that the profinite étale homotopy type satisfies arc‐descent. Using nonabelian smooth and proper basechange and descent, we give rather soft proofs of a number of Künneth formulas for the étale homotopy type.
Menstrual cycle phase does not influence muscle protein synthesis or whole‐body myofibrillar proteolysis in response to resistance exercise
Authors: Colenso‐Semple Lauren M. , McKendry James , Lim Changhyun , Atherton Philip J. , Wilkinson Daniel J. , Smith K. , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: December 2024

It has been hypothesised that skeletal muscle protein turnover is affected by menstrual cycle phase with a more anabolic environment during the follicular vs. the luteal phase. We assessed the influence of menstrual cycle phase on muscle protein synthesis and myofibrillar protein breakdown in response to 6 days of controlled resistance exercise in young females during peak oestrogen and peak progesterone, using stable isotopes, unbiased metabolomics and muscle biopsies. We used comprehensive menstrual cycle phase‐detection methods, including cycle tracking, blood samples and urinary test kits, to classify menstrual phases. Participants (n = 12) completed two 6 day study phases in a randomised order: late follicular phase and mid‐luteal phase. Participants performed unilateral resistance exercise in each menstrual cycle phase, exercising the contralateral leg in each phase in a counterbalanced manner. Follicular phase myofibrillar protein synthesis (MPS) rates were 1.33 ± 0.27% d−1 in the control leg and 1.52 ± 0.27% d−1 in the exercise leg. Luteal phase MPS was 1.28 ± 0.27% d−1 in the control leg and 1.46 ± 0.25% d−1 in the exercise leg. We observed a significant effect of exercise (P < 0.001) but no effect of cycle phase or interaction. There was no significant effect of menstrual cycle phase on whole‐body myofibrillar protein breakdown (P = 0.24). Using unbiased metabolomics, we observed no notable phase‐specific changes in circulating blood metabolites associated with any particular menstrual cycle phase. Fluctuations in endogenous ovarian hormones influenced neither MPS, nor MPB in response to resistance exercise. Skeletal muscle is not more anabolically responsive to resistance exercise in a particular menstrual cycle phase.

image

Key points

It has been hypothesised that the follicular (peak oestrogen) vs. the luteal (peak progesterone) phase of the menstrual cycle is more advantageous for skeletal muscle anabolism in response to resistance exercise.

Using best practice methods to assess menstrual cycle status, we measured integrated (over 6 days) muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and myofibrillar protein breakdown (MPB) following resistance exercise in females (n = 12) in their follicular and luteal phases.

We observed the expected differences in oestrogen and progesterone concentrations that confirmed our participants’ menstrual cycle phase; however, there were no notable metabolic pathway differences, as measured using metabolomics, between cycle phases.

We observed that resistance exercise stimulated MPS, but there was no effect of menstrual cycle phase on either resting or exercise‐stimulated MPS or MPB.

Our data show no greater anabolic effect of resistance exercise in the follicular vs. the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
Thermodynamic and Exergoeconomic Assessment of Environmentally-Benign Zeotropic Mixtures in Organic Rankine Cycle for Sustainable Power Generation
Authors: Kannaiyan Kumaran , Sharma Bhawandeep , Ye Chengzhi
Published: December 2024

In the context of the sustainable energy transition, the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) is explored for energy conversion from renewable energy sources. The majority of ORC systems are explored with synthetic chemicals-based zeotropic mixtures as working fluids, which are detrimental to the environment. However, the choice of working fluids needs a holistic approach that considers not only maximizing the performance but also the cost-effectiveness, minimal environmental impact, and appropriate system sizing. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by performing a comprehensive energy, exergy, and exergoeconomic analysis of environmentally benign zeotropic mixtures with an emphasis on CO2 utilization and the influence of heat source temperatures. The application of the eco-friendly zeotropic mixture (DME-CO2) yielded significantly higher power (up to 50%), lower exergy destruction, and system compactness comparable to synthetic zeotropic mixtures for the conditions studied. The exergoeconomic analysis illustrated that maximization of power generation in conjunction with system compactness offers a cost-effective solution for harnessing renewable energy sources. The holistic approach employed in this study showcased that eco-friendly zeotropic mixtures can achieve cost parity with synthetic zeotropic mixtures while delivering comparable technical performance. The results also demonstrate that CO2 concentration is intricately linked to system performance, compactness, and cost and warrants further exploration of the optimal CO2 concentration.
Advanced Methods for Assessing Flow Physics of the TU Darmstadt Compressor Stage: Uncertainty Quantification of RANS Turbulence Modeling
Authors: Matha Marcel , Möller Felix M. , Bode Christoph , Morsbach Christian , Kügeler Edmund
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we quantify the turbulence modeling uncertainty for the transonic Technische Universität Darmstadt (TUDa) compressor. The present work applies the Eigenspace Perturbation Framework (EPF) as it is the only published physics-based framework capable of addressing the model-form uncertainty in turbulence closure modeling. To sample from the possible solution space and obtain the modeling uncertainty, we perform simulations perturbing the eigenvalues of the Reynolds stress tensor in addition to simulations using an unperturbed turbulence model. We show that the shape of the Reynolds stress tensor ellipsoid has significant impact on the evolution of turbulence, flow separation, vortex systems, shock-boundary layer interaction, and finally the overall performance of the compressor. We compare the estimated uncertainties with available measurements and transitional Delayed Detached-Eddy Simulations (DDES). This allows us to assess the confidence of the chosen turbulence model and to evaluate the sharpness and coverage of the resulting uncertainty bounds. Thus, the EPF is comprehensively validated and suggestions for its future applicability with respect to turbomachinery components are made.
Characterization of the ion angle distribution function in low-pressure plasmas using a micro-electromechanical system
Authors: Melzer M. , Meinel K. , Stoeckel C. , Hemke T. , Mussenbrock T. , Zimmermann S.
Published: December 2024

In recent years, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMSs) have found broad applications in various sensors. However, aside from quartz crystal microbalances, they have not yet been utilized in plasma analysis. Building on previous work with piezoelectric MEMS, the functionality of a MEMS-based sensor system capable of measuring the ion angular distribution function on the wafer holder surface is demonstrated. To enable this functionality, an array of high aspect ratio holes was added to the tiltable silicon plate of a piezoelectric MEMS. These holes allow for the filtering of incoming ions based on their angle perpendicular to the surface of the tiltable element. An algorithm was developed to fit the width and mean of the ion angular distribution function (IADF) based on the RMS ion current for various MEMS amplitudes. Compared to previously used methods for measuring the IADF, the MEMS presented in this paper represents a significant miniaturization. This work is the first to successfully characterize the angular distribution function of ions using a MEMS.
Recovery Strategies in Endurance Sports: A Survey in Coaches and Athletes
Authors: Li Shuting , Kempe Matthias , Lemmink Koen A.P.M.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study explored endurance athletes’ and coaches’ views on recovery strategies, focusing on their use across competition levels, perceived importance and effectiveness, and common barriers. Methods: Endurance athletes (26.6% international, 35.7% national, 28.7% regional, and 9.1% other levels; mean experience 10.04 [7.84] y, n = 143) and coaches (mean experience 17.45 [12.44] y, n = 20) completed an online survey on frequency of usage, perceived importance, effectiveness, and common barriers of 25 recovery strategies. Data were coded and analyzed thematically. A Fisher exact test (P < .05) was conducted on 5-point Likert-scale responses. Results: Predominant strategies among athletes were hydration, hot showers, and carbohydrate (mean scores 4.62 [0.60], 4.32 [0.82], and 4.17 [0.87]). Only antioxidants showed significant variation in use across levels (P = .033). Coaches favored warm-down/cooling (4.56 [0.62]), hydration (4.41 [0.80]), and extra protein (4.12 [0.70]). Both groups ranked hydration as most important and effective. Athletes ranked extra protein and warm-down/cooling second and third, while coaches considered extra sleep/naps, warm-down/cooling, and extra protein equally important. Barriers of both populations included insufficient time (14.41%), limited knowledge (13.72%), lack of resources (12.63%), and skepticism regarding benefits and effectiveness (12.63%). Conclusions: Athletes show no significant differences in recovery choices based on competitive level, except for antioxidants. Coaches and athletes have partially different views on effective recovery. Furthermore, a lack of time, as well as a lack of (shared) knowledge and education, hinders the effective implementation of recovery strategies for athletes.
Renal Angptl4 is a key fibrogenic molecule in progressive diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Srivastava Swayam Prakash , Zhou Han , Shenoi Rachel , Morris Myshal , Lainez-Mas Begoña , Goedeke Leigh , Rajendran Barani Kumar , Setia Ocean , Aryal Binod , Kanasaki Keizo , Koya Daisuke , Inoki Ken , Dardik Alan , Bell Thomas , Fernández-Hernando Carlos , Shulman Gerald I. , Goodwin Julie E.
Published: December 2024

Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4), a key protein involved in lipoprotein metabolism, has diverse effects. There is an association between Angptl4 and diabetic kidney disease; however, this association has not been well investigated. We show that both podocyte- and tubule-specific ANGPTL4 are crucial fibrogenic molecules in diabetes. Diabetes accelerates the fibrogenic phenotype in control mice but not in ANGPTL4 mutant mice. The protective effect observed in ANGPTL4 mutant mice is correlated with a reduction in stimulator of interferon genes pathway activation, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, lessened mitochondrial damage, and increased fatty acid oxidation. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that podocyte- or tubule-secreted
Angptl4
interacts with Integrin β1 and influences the association between dipeptidyl-4 with Integrin β1. We demonstrate the utility of a targeted pharmacologic therapy that specifically inhibits
Angptl4
gene expression in the kidneys and protects diabetic kidneys from proteinuria and fibrosis. Together, these data demonstrate that podocyte- and tubule-derived
Angptl4
is fibrogenic in diabetic kidneys.
Capturing intermediates and membrane remodeling in class III viral fusion
Authors: Milojević Lenka , Si Zhu , Xia Xian , Chen Lauren , He Yao , Tang Sijia , Luo Ming , Zhou Z. Hong
Published: December 2024

Enveloped viruses enter cells by fusing their envelopes to host cell membranes. Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) glycoprotein (G) is a prototype for class III fusion proteins. Although structures of the stable pre- and postfusion ectodomain of G are known, its fusogenic intermediates are insufficiently characterized. Here, we incubated VSV virions with late endosome-mimicking liposomes at pH 5.5 and used cryo–electron tomography (cryo-ET) to visualize stages of VSV’s membrane fusion pathway, capture refolding intermediates of G, and reconstruct a sequence of G conformational changes. We observe that the G trimer disassembles into monomers and parallel dimers that explore a broad conformational space. Extended intermediates engage target membranes and mediate fusion, resulting in viral uncoating and linearization of the ribonucleoprotein genome. These viral fusion intermediates provide mechanistic insights into class III viral fusion processes, opening avenues for future research and structure-based design of fusion inhibition-based antiviral therapeutics.
Arabidopsis histone acetyltransferase complex coordinates cytoplasmic histone acetylation and nuclear chromatin accessibility
Authors: Wu Chan-Juan , Xu Xin , Yuan Dan-Yang , Liu Zhen-Zhen , Tan Lian-Mei , Su Yin-Na , Li Lin , Chen She , He Xin-Jian
Published: December 2024

Conserved type B histone acetyltransferases are recognized for their role in acetylating newly synthesized histones in the cytoplasm of eukaryotes. However, their involvement in regulating chromatin within the nucleus remains unclear. Our study shows that the
Arabidopsis thaliana
type B histone acetyltransferase HAG2 interacts with the histone chaperones MSI2, MSI3, and NASP, as well as the histones H3 and H4, forming a complex in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Within this complex, HAG2 and MSI2/3 constitute a histone acetylation module essential for acetylating histone H4 in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, this module works together with NASP to regulate histone acetylation, chromatin accessibility, and gene transcription in the nucleus. This complex enhances chromatin accessibility near transcription start sites while reducing accessibility near transcription termination sites. Our findings reveal a distinct role for the
Arabidopsis
type B histone acetyltransferase in the nucleus, shedding light on the coordination between cytoplasmic histone acetylation and nuclear chromatin regulation in plants.
Dual pathways of concealed gun carrying and use from adolescence to adulthood over a 25-year era of change
Authors: Lanfear Charles C. , Kirk David S. , Sampson Robert J.
Published: December 2024

Most homicides in the United States are committed using a handgun, but little research examines gun carrying over critical stages of the life course and changing contexts of violence. Notably, although most of the handgun homicides are committed by adults, most research on concealed gun carrying focuses on adolescents in single cohort studies. Using more than 25 years of longitudinal multicohort data from Chicago, 1994–2021, we show that pathways of concealed gun carrying are distinct between adolescence and adulthood. Adolescent carrying is often age-limited and responsive to direct exposure to gun violence (witnessing and victimization), while adult carrying is a persistent behavior that is less tied to direct exposure. The onset of concealed carry is also a strong predictor of later gun use (shooting or brandishing), and we find distinct patterns of gun use between individuals who first carry in adolescence versus adulthood. We discuss the implications of these dual pathways for research and policies on firearm use.
Spontaneous snapping-induced jet flows for fast, maneuverable surface and underwater soft flapping swimmer
Authors: Qing Haitao , Guo Jiacheng , Zhu Yuanhang , Chi Yinding , Hong Yaoye , Quinn Daniel , Dong Haibo , Yin Jie
Published: December 2024

Manta rays use wing-like pectoral fins for intriguing oscillatory swimming. It provides rich inspiration for designing potentially fast, efficient, and maneuverable soft swimming robots, which, however, have yet to be realized. It remains a grand challenge to combine fast speed, high efficiency, and high maneuverability in a single soft swimmer while using simple actuation and control. Here, we report leveraging spontaneous snapping stroke in the monostable flapping wing of a manta-like soft swimmer to address the challenge. The monostable wing is pneumatically actuated to instantaneously snap through to stroke down, and upon deflation, it will spontaneously stroke up by snapping back to its initial state, driven by elastic restoring force, without consuming additional energy. This largely simplifies designs, actuation, and control for achieving a record-high speed of 6.8 body length per second, high energy efficiency, and high maneuverability and collision resilience in navigating through underwater unstructured environments with obstacles by simply tuning single-input actuation frequencies.
Atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral imidazo[1,2-
a
]pyridines via asymmetric multicomponent reaction
Authors: Hong Shibin , Liu Wei , Zhang Chongyi , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: December 2024

Imidazo[1,2-
a
]pyridines are privileged heterocycles with diverse applications in medicinal chemistry; however, the catalytic asymmetric synthesis of these heterocyclic structures remains underexplored. Herein, we present an efficient and modular approach for the atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral imidazo[1,2-
a
]pyridines via an asymmetric multicomponent reaction. By utilizing a chiral phosphoric acid catalyst, the Groebke-Blackburn-Bienaymé reaction involving various 6-aryl-2-aminopyridines, aldehydes, and isocyanides gave access to a wide range of imidazo[1,2-
a
]pyridine atropoisomers with high to excellent yields and enantioselectivities. Extensive control experiments underscored the pivotal role of the remote hydrogen bonding donor on the substrates in achieving high stereoselectivity for these reactions. The versatile derivatizations of these atropisomeric products, especially their role as an analog of NOBINs and their facile conversion into unique 6,6-spirocyclic products, further emphasize the merits of this methodology.
Fish-inspired dynamic charging for ultrafast self-protective solar-thermal energy storage
Authors: Li Xiaoxiang , Zhang Jingyi , Liu Yizhe , Xu Yangzhe , Xie Yixuan , Hu Ting , Fu Benwei , Song Chengyi , Shang Wen , Tao Peng , Deng Tao
Published: December 2024

Solar-thermal energy storage (STES) within solid-liquid phase change materials (PCMs) has emerged as an attractive solution to overcome intermittency of renewable energy. However, current storage systems usually suffer from slow charging rates, sacrificed storage capacity, and overheating tendency. Inspired by the thermoregulation behavior of
Cyprinid
fish, here, we present a quick-responsive, ultrafast, large-capacity, overheating-protective STES strategy. We fabricate a liquid-infused solar-absorbing foam charger that can rapidly advance the receding solid-liquid charging interface to efficiently store solar-thermal energy as latent heat and spontaneously float upward to cease the charging process upon overheating. This bioinspired dynamic charging is adaptable to a variety of PCMs, unlocking the potential for safe and efficient utilization of renewable thermal energy.
Temperature-responsive metamaterials made of highly sensitive thermostat metal strips
Authors: Zhang Yi , Jiang Wei Zhong , Pan Yang , Teng Xing Chi , Xu Hang Hang , Yan Han , Ni Xi Hai , Dong Jun , Han Dong , Chen Wei Qiu , Yang Jie , Xie Yi Min , Lu Yang , Ren Xin
Published: December 2024

Temperature-responsive metamaterials have remarkable shape-morphing ability during thermal energy conversion. However, integrating the thermal shape programmability, wide-working temperature range, fast temperature response, and actuation into metamaterials remains challenging. Here, we introduce using thermostat metal strips to assemble metamaterials with desirable and balanced temperature-responsive properties, and we systematically investigate the thermal deformation performance. Achieving 70 to 80% of the designed strain requires only 5 seconds of heating. A thermal strain of around 30% is achieved for the assembled metamaterials, surpassing other bimetallic metamaterials by a magnitude of 100 to 200. The actuation capacity of thermostat metal strips exceeds 26 times their weight. Further, by leveraging the highly programmable thermal deformation, the tuneable bandgap range is 3847 to 40,000 hertz. These fully integrated mechanical performances in the multiphysics have great application potential, for example, as soft actuators and soft robots in intelligent structure systems, vibration isolation and noise reduction in hypersonic vehicles, and unique thermal deformation in precision instruments.
Single-cell profiling of acral melanoma infiltrating lymphocytes reveals a suppressive tumor microenvironment
Authors: Minowa Tomoyuki , Murata Kenji , Mizue Yuka , Murai Aiko , Nakatsugawa Munehide , Sasaki Kenta , Tokita Serina , Kubo Terufumi , Kanaseki Takayuki , Tsukahara Tomohide , Handa Toshiya , Sato Sayuri , Horimoto Kohei , Kato Junji , Hida Tokimasa , Hirohashi Yoshihiko , Uhara Hisashi , Torigoe Toshihiko
Published: December 2024

Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is the most common melanoma subtype in non-Caucasians. Despite advances in cancer immunotherapy, current immune checkpoint inhibitors remain unsatisfactory for ALM. Hence, we conducted comprehensive immune profiling using single-cell phenotyping with reactivity screening of the T cell receptors of tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs) in ALM. Compared with cutaneous melanoma, ALM showed a lower frequency of tumor-reactive CD8 clusters and an enrichment of regulatory T cells with direct tumor recognition ability, suggesting a suppressive immune microenvironment in ALM. Tumor-reactive CD8 TILs showed heterogeneous expression of coinhibitory molecules, including
KLRC1
(NKG2A), in subpopulations with therapeutic implications. Overall, our study provides a foundation for enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy in ALM.
RANKL treatment restores thymic function and improves T cell–mediated immune responses in aged mice
Authors: Santamaria Jérémy C. , Chevallier Jessica , Dutour Léa , Picart Amandine , Kergaravat Camille , Cieslak Agata , Amrane Mourad , Vincentelli Renaud , Puthier Denis , Clave Emmanuel , Sergé Arnauld , Cohen-Solal Martine , Toubert Antoine , Irla Magali
Published: December 2024

Age-related thymic involution, leading to reduced T cell production, is one of the major causes of immunosenescence. This results in an increased susceptibility to cancers, infections, and autoimmunity and in reduced vaccine efficacy. Here, we identified that the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK)–RANK ligand (RANKL) axis in the thymus is altered during aging. Using a conditional transgenic mouse model, we demonstrated that endothelial cells depend on RANK signaling for their cellularity and functional maturation. Decreased RANKL availability during aging resulted in a decline in cellularity and function of both endothelial cells and thymic epithelial cells, contributing to thymic involution. We then found that, whereas RANKL neutralization in young mice mimicked thymic involution, exogenous RANKL treatment in aged mice restored thymic architecture as well as endothelial cell and epithelial cell abundance and functional properties. Consequently, RANKL improved T cell progenitor homing to the thymus and boosted T cell production. This cascade of events resulted in peripheral T cell renewal and effective antitumor and vaccine responses in aged mice. Furthermore, we conducted a proof-of-concept study that showed that RANKL stimulates endothelial cells and epithelial cells in human thymic organocultures. Overall, our findings suggest that targeting the RANK-RANKL axis through exogenous RANKL administration could represent a therapeutic strategy to rejuvenate thymic function and improve T cell immunity during aging.
Supplemental Material: Unique mercury isotopic signature of mercury-bearing hydrothermal systems in South China and its geological and environmental implications
Authors: Yang Bizheng , Yin Runsheng , al. et
Published: December 2024

Tables S1–S4 and Figures S1–S2.  
Supplemental Material: Garnet growth in a geological blink of an eye
Authors: Tual Lorraine , al. et
Published: December 2024

Methods, supporting information, Figures S1–S4, and Table S1. 
Infrared Transmission Spectra of TiS3: Fundamental Absorption Edge, Phonons, and Excitons
Authors: Boldyrev K. N. , Mostovshchikova E. V. , Titov A. N. , Pokrovskii V. Ya. , Gorlova I. G.
Published: December 2024

Transmission spectra of TiS3 single crystal whiskers in the infrared and optical bands have been studied at various light polarizations in the temperature range from room to liquid helium. The absolute absorption coefficients have been determined. Previously unknown phonon modes have been observed in the far infrared region. The study of the temperature dependence of the band gap width $${{\mathcal{E}}_{{\text{g}}}}$$ has shown that it increases by 50 meV under cooling from 300 to 5 K. The comparison of spectra measured at different polarization directions indicates that the optical gap is anisotropic. A 1.28-eV absorption peak has been detected below ~150 K and has been attributed to the excitation of excitons.
Unusual paraneoplastic neurological presentation associated with multiple myeloma
Authors: Amin Anik , Han Enrique Chiu , Ardakani Rumyar , Anderson Larry D
Published: December 2024

Various neurological complications can occur in multiple myeloma. We report a unique paraneoplastic neurological presentation that led to a multiple myeloma diagnosis. A man in his mid-40s experienced a 6-month progressive decline in vision and gait. Examination demonstrated an upper motor neuron pattern, while MRI showed bilateral corticospinal tractopathy and optic neuropathy. Workup led to a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, while other causes (eg, primary central nervous system demyelination, toxic-metabolic, degenerative) were ruled out. Paraneoplastic antibody panels were negative. There was no evidence of leptomeningeal meningitis or compressive lesions. He significantly improved after multiple myeloma treatment. We attribute his unique presentation to a probable paraneoplastic syndrome given the temporal relationships to multiple myeloma diagnosis and treatment. Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes in haematological cancers are often not well-defined, thus requiring both a broad evaluation and awareness of potential connections.
Mass casualty decontamination following a chemical incident: evaluating improvised and interim decontamination protocols in a controlled cross-over volunteer study
Authors: Davidson Louise , Southworth Felicity , Williams Natalie , James Thomas , Orchard Emily , Marczylo Tim , Collins Samuel , Amlôt Richard
Published: December 2024

Background

On-scene improvised and interim decontamination protocols in the Initial Operational Response to chemical incidents aim for rapid intervention to minimise injury before specialist capabilities arrive. This study examines the effectiveness of UK improvised and interim protocols conducted in sequence.

Method

A simulant with methyl salicylate (MeS) in vegetable oil and a fluorophore was applied to participants’ shoulders, arms and legs. Participants either received no decontamination or used one of four decontamination protocols: improvised dry, improvised wet, improvised dry followed by interim or improvised wet followed by interim. Remaining simulant on the skin was quantified using gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for MeS analysis and UV imaging for fluorophore detection. Additionally, urine samples were collected for 8 hours post application to analyse MeS levels.

Results

Significantly less simulant was recovered from the skin post decontamination compared with no decontamination. There were no differences in the total simulant recovered across all decontamination conditions. However, significantly more simulant was recovered from the shoulder compared with the arm and leg. Variation in simulant recovery from different application areas was significantly higher in improvised-only conditions than in combined conditions. Decontamination did not affect the amount of MeS excreted in urine over 8 hours.

Conclusion

This research supports current practice of starting decontamination as soon as possible after chemical exposure and highlights the importance of implementing interim decontamination following improvised decontamination.
Functional pathology of neuroleptic-induced dystonia based on the striatal striosome-matrix dopamine system in humans
Authors: Goto Satoshi
Published: December 2024

Neuroleptic-induced dystonia is a source of great concern in clinical practice because of its iatrogenic nature which can potentially lead to life-threatening conditions. Since all neuroleptics (antipsychotics) share the ability to block the dopamine D2-type receptors (D2Rs) that are highly enriched in the striatum, this drug-induced dystonia is thought to be caused by decreased striatal D2R activity. However, how associations of striatal D2R inactivation with dystonia are formed remains elusive.

A growing body of evidence suggests that imbalanced activities between D1R-expressing medium spiny neurons and D2R-expressing medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs and D2-MSNs) in the striatal striosome-matrix system underlie the pathophysiology of various basal ganglia disorders including dystonia. Given the specificity of the striatal dopamine D1system in ‘humans’, this article highlights the striatal striosome hypothesis in causing ‘repetitive’ and ‘stereotyped’ motor symptoms which are key clinical features of dystonia. It is suggested that exposure to neuroleptics may reduce striosomal D1-MSN activity and thereby cause dystonia symptoms. This may occur through an increase in the striatal cholinergic activity and the collateral inhibitory action of D2-MSNs onto neighbouring D1-MSNs within the striosome subfields. The article proposes a functional pathology of the striosome-matrix dopamine system for neuroleptic-induced acute dystonia or neuroleptic-withdrawal dystonia. A rationale for the effectiveness of dopaminergic or cholinergic pharmacotherapy is also provided for treating dystonias. This narrative review covers various aspects of the relevant field and provides a detailed discussion of the mechanisms of neuroleptic-induced dystonia.
COVID-19 risk by work-related factors: pooled analysis of individual linked data from 14 cohorts
Authors: Gittins Matthew , Wels Jacques , Rhodes Sarah , Demou Evangelia , Shaw Richard J , Hamilton Olivia K L , Zhu Jingmin , Wielgoszewska Bożena , Stevenson Anna , Badrick Ellena , Rhead Rebecca , Ploubidis George , Katikireddi Srinivasa Vittal , van Tongeren Martie
Published: December 2024

Background

SARS-CoV-2 infection rates vary by occupation, but the association with work-related characteristics (such as home working, keyworker or furlough) are not fully understood and may depend on ascertainment approach. We assessed infection risks across work-related characteristics and compared findings using different ascertainment approaches.

Methods

Participants of 14 UK-based longitudinal cohort studies completed surveys before and during the COVID-19 pandemic about their health, work and behaviour. These data were linked to the National Health Service digital health records, including COVID-19 diagnostic testing, within the UK Longitudinal Linkage Collaboration (UK LLC) research environment. Poisson regression modelled self-reported infection and diagnostic test confirmed infection within each cohort for work-related characteristics. Relative Risk (RR) were then combined using random effects meta-analysis.

Results

Between March 2020 and March 2021, 74 757 individuals completed 167 302 surveys. Overall, 15 174 survey responses self-reported an infection, whereas 3053 had a linked positive test. Self-reported infection risk was greater in keyworkers versus not (RR=1.24 (95% CI 1.17, 1.31), among non-home working (1.08 (0.98, 1.19)) or some home working (1.06 (0.97, 1.17)) versus all home working. Part-time workers versus full time (0.94 (0.89, 0.99)) and furlough versus not (0.93 (0.88, 0.99)) had reduced risk. Results for the linked positive test outcome were comparable in direction but greater in magnitude, for example, a 1.85 (1.56, 2.20) in keyworkers.

Conclusion

The UK LLC provides new opportunities for researchers to investigate risk factors, including occupational factors, for ill-health events in multiple largescale UK cohorts. Risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 illness appeared to be associated with work-related characteristics. Associations using linked diagnostic test data appeared stronger than self-reported infection status.
Clinical features, myocardial injury and systolic impairment in acute myocarditis
Authors: Shyam-Sundar Vijay , Slabaugh Greg , Mohiddin Saidi A , Petersen Steffen Erhard , Aung Nay
Published: December 2024

Objective

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is increasingly used in the diagnosis of myocarditis, with myocardial injury and systolic dysfunction playing key roles in the prognosis of this clinical setting. The clinical determinants of myocardial injury and systolic impairment in acute myocarditis are poorly defined. The aim of the current study is to assess the association of laboratory markers, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with acute myocarditis.

Methods

We completed a retrospective cohort study from a tertiary referral centre in London with CMR and acute myocarditis. Cases with cardiomyopathy were excluded. Missing data was imputed for selected clinical variables. We evaluated the association between peak troponin and LGE extent and LVEF. We adjusted the models for age, sex and time to CMR with a sensitivity analysis adjusting for body mass index and cardiovascular risk factors including hypertension, dyslipidaemia, diabetes mellitus and smoking.

Results

127 patients had abnormal T2-weighted imaging/mapping results with 118 (93%) presenting with chest pain and/or shortness of breath. Left ventricular LGE was identified in 118 (93%) patients and LVEF was 58±11%. The median time from the peak troponin to CMR was 1 day (IQR 0–6 days). The highest tertile of peak troponin was associated with more LGE (incident rate ratio 1.33, 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.64) and a lower LVEF (coefficient −5.3%, 95% CI: −9.5% to −1.1%). Diabetes was also associated with more LGE (incident rate ratio 1.90, 95% CI: 1.37 to 2.61) and lower LVEF (coefficient −8.9%, 95% CI: −14.7% to −1.8%).

Conclusions

Peak troponin is associated with more LGE and a lower LVEF even after accounting for demographics and comorbidities. Myocardial injury and systolic dysfunction play key roles in prognosis and future work incorporating clinical features into a risk prediction model may enable better risk stratification in acute myocarditis.
Surfactant protein B deficiency: the RespiRare cohort
Authors: Fleury Manon , Delestrain Céline , Roditis Léa , Perisson Caroline , Renoux Marie-Catherine , Thumerelle Caroline , Epaud Ralph , Fletcher Camille , Jedidi Nouha , Coulomb L'Hermine Aurore , Corvol Harriet , Ducou le Pointe Hubert , Fanen Pascale , Sileo Chiara , Louvrier Camille , de Becdelievre Alix , Legendre Marie , Nathan Nadia
Published: December 2024

Childhood interstitial lung diseases (chILD) are rare and usually severe disorders. Among them, very rare cases of surfactant protein (SP)-B deficiencies have been reported so far and are usually associated with fatal forms of chILD. The RespiRare network allows the collection of precise phenotypic and genotypic information. This study that reports a series of 11 SP-B-deficient patients underscores two key observations: patients with severe loss-of-function variants associated with SP-B complete deficiency presented symptoms at birth and died at a median age of 1 month; and extremely rare cases of hypomorphic variants with partially preserved SP-B function may allow survival.
Metal corrosion in partially saturated sands: Pore fluid conductivity and water saturation
Authors: Castro Gloria M. , Park Junghee , Sherik Abdelmounam , Santamarina J. Carlos
Published: December 2024

Sediments can facilitate the electrochemical processes that drive the corrosion of buried metallic components. Common analyses and guidelines emphasize the effect of pore fluid conductivity on soil corrosivity and overlook the effect of partial saturation; yet, most buried metals are situated within the vadose zone. The detailed experimental study reported herein used mass loss measurements from passive corrosion tests, X-ray microtomography, and image analyses to examine the evolution of corrosion in C-steel coupons embedded in sand specimens mixed with de-ionized water and brine at various degrees of saturation. Experimental observations show that corroding cells preferentially form at contacting grains, and that the evolution of corrosion is biased by the variability in packing density and saturation, while fluid conductivity plays a lesser role. Above all, results highlight the critical importance of percolating gas and water phases, and show that water-grain-metal interfaces restrict the actively corroding area to a fraction of the entire metal surface. A complementary macroscale analysis anticipates asymptotic conditions based on mass and charge conservation, and the transport of corroding agents and residuals. Together, the measurements and model results highlight the significant impact of the degree of saturation on corrosion rates and mass loss.
Permeable friction course design with consideration of hydroplaning risk
Authors: Chen Xiao , Wang Hao
Published: December 2024

This study investigates safety performance of permeable friction courses (PFCs) in terms of hydroplaning. An analytical model was derived to calculate water depth on PFC under static rainfalls. A tire–water–pavement interaction model was used to predict hydroplaning speeds. The results show that water film depth increases from innermost to outermost traffic lanes. PFC can mitigate hydroplaning risk under 0.5 cm/h rain rate. At rain rate of 1 cm/h, the impact of horizontal hydraulic conductivity and PRF thickness on hydroplaning speed is less than 10%, but becomes negligible at higher rain rates. On the other hand, the flow slope of PFC significantly affects hydroplaning speed by over 50%, while this effect decreases as rain rate increases. The surface macrotexture of PFC shows less than 5% impact on hydroplaning speed at all rain rates. An analysis framework with design example is proposed to incorporate hydroplaning speed in decision-making of roadway design with PFC.
Experimental Study on Expansive Subgrade Clay Soils Stabilized With Sugarcane Bagasse Ash and Nonwoven Geotextile
Authors: Mohammed Firdous , Jibril Jemal , Sorsa Alemineh , Alemu Chemeda , Chakeri Dekebi
Published: December 2024

Expansive clays pose significant challenges against transport infrastructures, particularly for lightweight structures such as roads and culverts. The cost of construction increases due to the need to transport selected materials from quarries to the construction sites for the replacement of the expansive soils with qualified quarry materials. On the other hand, excessive utilization of quarry sites harms the environment and is not a sustainable practice. This study evaluates the use of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) and nonwoven geotextile (NWG) to improve the engineering characteristics of expansive subgrade clay soils. Mineralogical and mechanical tests were conducted on two soil samples taken from Jimma City. The specimen preparations and tests of the samples were carried out based on the ASTM and AASHTO standard procedures. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), moisture content, grain size distribution, specific gravity, free swell, Atterberg limits, compaction, California bearing ratio (CBR), and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were performed. The trial mixes were prepared by combining the soil + SCBA, soil + NWG, and soil + SCBA + NWG. The SCBA was thoroughly mixed with the soil, while the NWG was applied in layers at different depths in the compacted soil in the CBR mold. Both descriptive and analytical methods were used to analyze the laboratory results. For the optimum amount of soil + SCBA mix, the 96‐h soaked average CBR values were increased by 215%, while for the soil + SCBA + NWG mix, the values were improved by 805%. Generally, the use of SCBA has improved both the physical and mechanical characteristics of the expansive clays to a moderate level, whereas SCBA plus NWG has enhanced the soil properties profoundly. The evidence shows that the improvements can be attributed to the chemical alterations, such as the reduction in plasticity and the increase in strength, and physical changes, like the formation of a stable soil structure, within the soil, SCBA, and NWG matrix. Utilization of SCBA has also both economic and environmental advantages.