bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full-body kinematics and head stabilisation strategies during walking in patients with chronic unilateral and bilateral vestibulopathy
Authors: Grouvel Gautier , Boutabla Anissa , Corre Julie , Revol Rebecca , Franco Carvalho Marys , Cavuscens Samuel , Ranieri Maurizio , Cugnot Jean-François , McCrum Christopher , van de Berg Raymond , Guinand Nils , Pérez Fornos Angélica , Armand Stéphane
Published: May 2024

Chronic imbalance is a frequent and limiting symptom of patients with chronic unilateral and bilateral vestibulopathy. A full-body kinematic analysis of the movement of patients with vestibulopathy would provide a better understanding of the impact of the pathology on dynamic tasks such as walking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the global body movement during walking, its variability (assessed with the GaitSD), and the strategies to stabilise the head (assessed with the head Anchoring Index). The full-body motion capture data of 10 patients with bilateral vestibulopathy (BV), 10 patients with unilateral vestibulopathy (UV), and 10 healthy subjects (HS) walking at several speeds (slow, comfortable, and fast) were analysed in this prospective cohort study. We observed only a few significant differences between groups in parts of the gait cycle (shoulder abduction–adduction, pelvis rotation, and hip flexion–extension) during the analysis of kinematic curves. Only BV patients had significantly higher gait variability (GaitSD) for all three walking speeds. Head stabilisation strategies depended on the plan of motion and walking speed condition, but BV and UV patients tended to stabilise their head in relation to the trunk and HS tended to stabilise their head in space. These results suggest that GaitSD could be a relevant biomarker of chronic instability in BV and that the head Anchoring Index tends to confirm clinical observations of abnormal head-trunk dynamics in patients with vestibulopathy while walking.
Synthesis and new DNA targeting activity of 6- and 7-tert-butylfascaplysins
Authors: Dyshlovoy Sergey A. , Mansour Wael Y. , Ramm Natalia A. , Hauschild Jessica , Zhidkov Maxim E. , Kriegs Malte , Zielinski Alexandra , Hoffer Konstantin , Busenbender Tobias , Glumakova Ksenia A. , Spirin Pavel V. , Prassolov Vladimir S. , Tilki Derya , Graefen Markus , Bokemeyer Carsten , von Amsberg Gunhild
Published: May 2024

Fascaplysin is a red cytotoxic pigment with anticancer properties isolated from the marine sponge Fascaplysinopsis sp. Recently, structure–activity relationship analysis reported by our group suggested that selective cytotoxicity of fascaplysin derivatives towards tumor cells negatively correlates with their ability to intercalate into DNA. To validate this hypothesis, we synthesized 6- and 7-tert-butylfascaplysins which reveal mitigated DNA-intercalating properties. These derivatives were found to be strongly cytotoxic to drug-resistant human prostate cancer cells, albeit did not demonstrate improved selectivity towards cancer cells when compared to fascaplysin. At the same time, kinome analysis suggested an activation of CHK1/ATR axis in cancer cells shortly after the drug exposure. Further experiments revealed induction of replication stress that is eventually converted to the toxic DNA double-strand breaks, resulting in caspase-independent apoptosis-like cell death. Our observations highlight new DNA-targeting effect of some fascaplysin derivatives and indicate more complex structure–activity relationships within the fascaplysin family, suggesting that cytotoxicity and selectivity of these alkaloids are influenced by multiple factors. Furthermore, combination with clinically-approved inhibitors of ATR/CHK1 as well as testing in tumors particularly sensitive to the DNA damage should be considered in further studies.
Glued suture-less peritoneum closure in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair reduces acute postoperative pain
Authors: Huguenin-Dezot Michaël , Peisl Sarah , Georgiou Evangelos , Candinas Daniel , Beldi Guido , Helbling Christian , Zindel Joel
Published: May 2024

Inguinal hernia repair is performed more than 20 million times per annum, representing a significant health and economic burden. Over the last three decades, significant technical advances have started to reduce the invasiveness of these surgeries, which translated to better recovery and reduced costs. Here we bring forward an innovative surgical technique using a biodegradable cyanoacrylate glue instead of a traumatic suture to close the peritoneum, which is a highly innervated tissue layer, at the end of endoscopy hernia surgery. To test how this affects the invasiveness of hernia surgery, we conducted a cohort study. A total of 183 patients that underwent minimally invasive hernia repair, and the peritoneum was closed with either a conventional traumatic suture (n = 126, 68.9%) or our innovative approach using glue (n = 57, 31.1%). The proportion of patients experiencing acute pain after surgery was significantly reduced (36.8 vs. 54.0%, p = 0.032) by using glue instead of a suture. In accordance, the mean pain level was higher in the suture group (VAS = 1.5 vs. 1.3, p = 0.029) and more patients were still using painkillers (77.9 vs. 52.4%, p = 0.023). Furthermore, the rate of complications was not increased in the glue group. Using multivariate regressions, we identified that using a traumatic suture was an independent predictor of acute postoperative pain (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.9, p = 0.042). In conclusion, suture-less glue closure of the peritoneum is innovative, safe, less painful, and possibly leads to enhanced recovery and decreased health costs.
Convergent accelerated evolution of mammal-specific conserved non-coding elements in hibernators
Authors: Nakayama Daiki , Makino Takashi
Published: May 2024

Mammals maintain their body temperature, yet hibernators can temporarily lower their metabolic rate as an energy-saving strategy. It has been proposed that hibernators evolved independently from homeotherms, and it is possible that the convergent evolution of hibernation involved common genomic changes among hibernator-lineages. Since hibernation is a seasonal trait, the evolution of gene regulatory regions in response to changes in season may have been important for the acquisition of hibernation traits. High-frequency accumulation of mutations in conserved non-coding elements (CNEs) could, in principle, alter the expression of neighboring genes and thereby contribute to the acquisition of new traits. To address this possibility, we performed a comparative genomic analysis of mammals to identify accelerated CNEs commonly associated with hibernation. We found that accelerated CNEs are common to hibernator-lineages and could be involved with hibernation. We also found that common factors of genes that located near accelerated CNEs and are differentially expressed between normal and hibernation periods related to gene regulation and cell-fate determination. It suggests that the molecular mechanisms controlling hibernation have undergone convergent evolution. These results help broaden our understanding of the genetic adaptations that facilitated hibernation in mammals and may offer insights pertaining to stress responses and energy conservation.
Analyzing vegetation health dynamics across seasons and regions through NDVI and climatic variables
Authors: Mehmood Kaleem , Anees Shoaib Ahmad , Muhammad Sultan , Hussain Khadim , Shahzad Fahad , Liu Qijing , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Khan Waseem Razzaq
Published: May 2024

This study assesses the relationships between vegetation dynamics and climatic variations in Pakistan from 2000 to 2023. Employing high-resolution Landsat data for Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) assessments, integrated with climate variables from CHIRPS and ERA5 datasets, our approach leverages Google Earth Engine (GEE) for efficient processing. It combines statistical methodologies, including linear regression, Mann–Kendall trend tests, Sen's slope estimator, partial correlation, and cross wavelet transform analyses. The findings highlight significant spatial and temporal variations in NDVI, with an annual increase averaging 0.00197 per year (p < 0.0001). This positive trend is coupled with an increase in precipitation by 0.4801 mm/year (p = 0.0016). In contrast, our analysis recorded a slight decrease in temperature (− 0.01011 °C/year, p < 0.05) and a reduction in solar radiation (− 0.27526 W/m2/year, p < 0.05). Notably, cross-wavelet transform analysis underscored significant coherence between NDVI and climatic factors, revealing periods of synchronized fluctuations and distinct lagged relationships. This analysis particularly highlighted precipitation as a primary driver of vegetation growth, illustrating its crucial impact across various Pakistani regions. Moreover, the analysis revealed distinct seasonal patterns, indicating that vegetation health is most responsive during the monsoon season, correlating strongly with peaks in seasonal precipitation. Our investigation has revealed Pakistan's complex association between vegetation health and climatic factors, which varies across different regions. Through cross-wavelet analysis, we have identified distinct coherence and phase relationships that highlight the critical influence of climatic drivers on vegetation patterns. These insights are crucial for developing regional climate adaptation strategies and informing sustainable agricultural and environmental management practices in the face of ongoing climatic changes.
Highly variable biological effects of statins on cancer, non-cancer, and stem cells in vitro
Authors: Gbelcová Helena , Rimpelová Silvie , Jariabková Adriana , Macášek Patrik , Priščáková Petra , Ruml Tomáš , Šáchová Jana , Kubovčiak Jan , Kolář Michal , Vítek Libor
Published: May 2024

Statins, the drugs used for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, have come into the spotlight not only as chemoadjuvants, but also as potential stem cell modulators in the context of regenerative therapy. In our study, we compared the in vitro effects of all clinically used statins on the viability of human pancreatic cancer (MiaPaCa-2) cells, non-cancerous human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) cells and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSC). Additionally, the effect of statins on viability of MiaPaCa-2 and ADMSC cells spheroids was tested. Furthermore, we performed a microarray analysis on ADMSCs treated with individual statins (12 μM) and compared the importance of the effects of statins on gene expression between stem cells and pancreatic cancer cells. Concentrations of statins that significantly affected cancer cells viability (< 40 μM) did not affect stem cells viability after 24 h. Moreover, statins that didn´t affect viability of cancer cells grown in a monolayer, induce the disintegration of cancer cell spheroids. The effect of statins on gene expression was significantly less pronounced in stem cells compared to pancreatic cancer cells. In conclusion, the low efficacy of statins on non-tumor and stem cells at concentrations sufficient for cancer cells growth inhibition, support their applicability in chemoadjuvant tumor therapy.
Detailed analysis of low temperature inactivation of respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Kitai Yuki , Watanabe Oshi , Ohmiya Suguru , Kisu Tomoko , Ota Reiko , Kawakami Kazuyoshi , Katoh Hiroshi , Fukuzawa Kaori , Takeda Makoto , Nishimura Hidekazu
Published: May 2024

Our previous findings indicated that many respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) isolates are unstable at 4 °C compared to 20 °C. Some of the strains completely lose infectivity after 24 h at 4 °C. This study analyzed the inactivation process at 4 °C using a representative strain, RSV/Sendai/851/13. After 24 h of storage at 4 °C, the virus was completely inactivated but retained its ability to attach to and to be taken into host cells. It suggested a reduced fusion ability between the viral and cellular membranes. During storage at 4 °C, the RSV fusion (F) protein underwent a conformational change and was no longer recognized by pre-fusion form-specific antibodies. When the RSV/Sendai/851/13 strain was passaged at 4 °C, a variant with an amino acid substitution, I148T, in the F protein fusion peptide was selected. Also, an amino acid change in G protein demonstrating stability at low temperatures was obtained. These results show that the inactivation of RSV at 4 °C is due to the loss of membrane fusion activity in the F protein, which cannot maintain its pre-fusion state at 4 °C.
Research and experimental verification of lightweight loader rims
Authors: Long Ma , Zhikui Dong , Chunjiang Liu , Peng Gao , Ao Liang , Binfeng Hou , Xiangdong Qi , Yunhong Jiang
Published: May 2024

The safety performance and structural stiffness of a rim, which is the main load-bearing structure of the loader during operation, influence the overall performance, stability, and braking capabilities of the machine. In the industry, researchers are currently pursuing lightweight and high-strength rims as a primary objective. A low weight not only enhances machinery fuel efficiency but also aligns with societal demands for sustainable development, energy conservation, and emission reduction. In this article, multiobjective optimization analysis on rims composed of three different materials is performed, and the relationships between various optimization parameters and target parameters are established using the results of response surface construction. Multiobjective genetic algorithms are utilized to derive various optimization plans, which are subsequently evaluated through static analysis, fatigue analysis, and weight loss analysis. The final optimization plan is determined based on the calculation results while considering production costs. Field tests are conducted on the optimized rims under various working conditions to verify the test results, evaluate the reliability of the finite element analysis results, and confirm the safety of the optimized rim.
The neurocognitive mechanism linking temperature and humidity with miners’ alertness: an fNIRS study
Authors: Tian Chenning , Li Hongxia , Tian Shuicheng , Tian Fangyuan , Yang Hailan
Published: May 2024

As the depth of coal mining increases, the temperature and humidity of the underground environment also rise, which can negatively impact the physiological health of miners, and may even pose a threat to their safety and lives. However, studies on the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying the relationship between temperature, humidity, and miners’ alertness are scant. This study investigates several research objectives: (A) the differences in reaction time and error rate in different temperature and humidity conditions, which factor has a greater impact; (B) the differences in the levels of Oxy-Hb in different conditions and which factor has a greater impact; (C) the differences of activation degree between different regions of interest; and (D) the differences in the shape of Oxy-Hb time course between different conditions between different regions of interests. The fNIRS was used to measure the activity in 100 participants’ prefrontal cortex in this study. The results showed that both temperature and humidity would lead to decreased alertness of miners, which would not only prolong the reaction time, increase the error rate, and increase the Oxy-Hb concentration, but also lead to increased activation of the prefrontal cortex and greater activation of the right side than that of the left side, the Oxy-Hb time course was different on both sides, and temperature has a greater effect on alertness than humidity.
An interpretable data-driven prediction model to anticipate scoliosis in spinal muscular atrophy in the era of (gene-) therapies
Authors: Vu-Han Tu-Lan , Schettino Rodrigo Bermudez , Weiß Claudia , Perka Carsten , Winkler Tobias , Sunkara Vikram , Pumberger Matthias
Published: May 2024

5q-spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disorder (NMD) that has become one of the first 5% treatable rare diseases. The efficacy of new SMA therapies is creating a dynamic SMA patient landscape, where disease progression and scoliosis development play a central role, however, remain difficult to anticipate. New approaches to anticipate disease progression and associated sequelae will be needed to continuously provide these patients the best standard of care. Here we developed an interpretable machine learning (ML) model that can function as an assistive tool in the anticipation of SMA-associated scoliosis based on disease progression markers. We collected longitudinal data from 86 genetically confirmed SMA patients. We selected six features routinely assessed over time to train a random forest classifier. The model achieved a mean accuracy of 0.77 (SD 0.2) and an average ROC AUC of 0.85 (SD 0.17). For class 1 ‘scoliosis’ the average precision was 0.84 (SD 0.11), recall 0.89 (SD 0.22), F1-score of 0.85 (SD 0.17), respectively. Our trained model could predict scoliosis using selected disease progression markers and was consistent with the radiological measurements. During post validation, the model could predict scoliosis in patients who were unseen during training. We also demonstrate that rare disease data sets can be wrangled to build predictive ML models. Interpretable ML models can function as assistive tools in a changing disease landscape and have the potential to democratize expertise that is otherwise clustered at specialized centers.
Proteome-wide Mendelian randomization identifies potential therapeutic targets for nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases
Authors: Li Junhang , Ma Xiang , Yin Cuihua
Published: May 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the predominant cause of liver pathology. Current evidence highlights plasma proteins as potential therapeutic targets. However, their mechanistic roles in NAFLD remain unclear. This study investigated the involvement of specific plasma proteins and intermediate risk factors in NAFLD progression. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to examine the association between plasma proteins and NAFLD. Colocalization analysis determined the shared causal variants between the identified proteins and NAFLD. The MR analysis was applied separately to proteins, risk factors, and NAFLD. Mediator shares were computed by detecting the correlations among these elements. Phenome-wide association studies (phewas) were utilized to assess the safety implications of targeting these proteins. Among 1,834 cis-protein quantitative trait loci (cis-pQTLs), after-FDR correction revealed correlations between the plasma levels of four gene-predicted proteins (CSPG3, CILP2, Apo-E, and GCKR) and NAFLD. Colocalization analysis indicated shared causal variants for CSPG3 and GCKR in NAFLD (posterior probability > 0.8). Out of the 22 risk factors screened for MR analysis, only 8 showed associations with NAFLD (p ≤ 0.05), while 4 linked to CSPG3 and GCKR. The mediator shares for these associations were calculated separately. Additionally, reverse MR analysis was performed on the pQTLs, risk factors, and NAFLD, which exhibited a causal relationship with forward MR analysis. Finally, phewas summarized the potential side effects of associated-targeting proteins, including CSPG3 and GCKR. Our research emphasized the potential therapeutic targets for NAFLD and provided modifiable risk factors for preventing NAFLD.
Construction of core–shell magnetic metal–organic framework composites Fe3O4@MIL-101(Fe, Co) for degradation of RhB by efficiently activating PMS
Authors: Wu Huizhong , Yi Qiong , Li Xiang , Wang Yingxi , Li Ling
Published: May 2024

Low catalytic efficiency and catalyst recovery are the key factors limiting the practical application of advanced oxidation processes.
A highly effective peroxidase-mimic nanozyme of S, N-carbon dot-decorated cerium organic framework-based colorimetric detection of Hg2+ ion and thiophanate methyl
Authors: Jesuraj Rajakumari , Perumal Panneerselvam
Published: May 2024

We synthesized S, N-carbon dot-decorated Ce-MOF as strong peroxidase nanozyme for successive detection of Hg2+ and thiophanate methyl in the environment and food samples.
Finite size effects on the metamagnetic phase transition in a thick B2 FeRh nanocluster film
Authors: Herrera Guillermo , Robert Anthony , Gonzalez Sara , Schoeffmann Patrick , Tamion Alexandre , Tournus Florent , Bardotti Laurent , Boisron Olivier , Albin Clément , Blanchard Nicholas , Canero-Infante Ingrid , Romeo Pedro Rojo , Canut Bruno , Otero Edwige , Ohresser Philippe , Wilhelm Fabrice , Rogalev Andrei , Bugnet Matthieu , Le Roy Damien , Dupuis Véronique
Published: May 2024

An inhomogeneous grain coarsening distribution to explain the metamagnetic transition in a thick film of assembled B2 FeRh nanoclusters.
Tailoring the active phase of CoO-based thin-film catalysts in order to tune selectivity in CO2 hydrogenation
Authors: Mohammadpour Niloofar , Kierzkowska-Pawlak Hanna , Balcerzak Jacek , Tyczkowski Jacek
Published: May 2024

Effect of the chemical state of cobalt in a cold plasma-prepared thin-film catalyst on its methanation activity.
Stereoselective Shi-type epoxidation with 3-oxo-4,6-O-benzylidene pyranoside catalysts: unveiling the role of carbohydrate skeletons
Authors: Imperio Daniela , Valloni Filippo , Caprioglio Diego , Minassi Alberto , Casali Emanuele , Panza Luigi
Published: May 2024

Sugar-derived chiral ketones are capable of reversing stereoselectivity in Shi-type epoxidation.
Helically twisted nanoribbons via stereospecific annulative π-extension reaction employing [7]helicene as a molecular wrench
Authors: Swain Asim , Radacki Krzysztof , Braunschweig Holger , Ravat Prince
Published: May 2024

Enantiopure [7]helicenes were utilized as molecular wrenches at the terminal K-regions of the conjugated pyrene nanoribbon to achieve a 99.9% conformational population of a single-handed helical ribbon with an end-to-end twist of 171°.
Real-time generation of circular patterns in electron beam lithography
Authors: Li Zhengjie , Yin Bohua , Sun Botong , Huang Jingyu , Wang Pengfei , Han Li
Published: May 2024

Electron beam lithography (EBL) involves the transfer of a pattern onto the surface of a substrate by first scanning a thin layer of organic film (called resist) on the surface by a tightly focused and precisely controlled electron beam (exposure) and then selectively removing the exposed or nonexposed regions of the resist in a solvent (developing). It is widely used for fabrication of integrated circuits, mask manufacturing, photoelectric device processing, and other fields. The key to drawing circular patterns by EBL is the graphics production and control. In an EBL system, an embedded processor calculates and generates the trajectory coordinates for movement of the electron beam, and outputs the corresponding voltage signal through a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to control a deflector that changes the position of the electron beam. Through this procedure, it is possible to guarantee the accuracy and real-time control of electron beam scanning deflection. Existing EBL systems mostly use the method of polygonal approximation to expose circles. A circle is divided into several polygons, and the smaller the segmentation, the higher is the precision of the splicing circle. However, owing to the need to generate and scan each polygon separately, an increase in the number of segments will lead to a decrease in the overall lithography speed. In this paper, based on Bresenham’s circle algorithm and exploiting the capabilities of a field-programmable gate array and DAC, an improved real-time circle-producing algorithm is designed for EBL. The algorithm can directly generate circular graphics coordinates such as those for a single circle, solid circle, solid ring, or concentric ring, and is able to effectively realizes deflection and scanning of the electron beam for circular graphics lithography. Compared with the polygonal approximation method, the improved algorithm exhibits improved precision and speed. At the same time, the point generation strategy is optimized to solve the blank pixel and pseudo-pixel problems that arise with Bresenham’s circle algorithm. A complete electron beam deflection system is established to carry out lithography experiments, the results of which show that the error between the exposure results and the preset patterns is at the nanometer level, indicating that the improved algorithm meets the requirements for real-time control and high precision of EBL.
Low-carbon economic operation strategy for multi-agent integrated energy system considering uncertainty of renewable energy power generation
Authors: Liu Lin , Yao Xilong , Han Yunfei , Qi Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

The uncertainty of renewable energy output threatens the operation safety of multi-agent integrated energy system (MAIES), which makes it difficult to balance the low-carbon economic operation demands of various stakeholders. However, the existing research solely focuses on the operational strategy of multi-agent game involving integrated energy suppliers and users in deterministic scenarios, overlooking the complementary supporting role and game interaction of shared energy storage and wind farm as independent entities of interest under the instability of renewable energy power generation. Hence, this paper first establishes the optimal operation models for integrated energy system operator (IESO), user aggregator (UA), shared energy storage operator (SESO), and wind farm operator (WFO) considering the stepped carbon trading. Second, in the face of the actual situation of uncertainty of photovoltaic and wind power output, fuzzy chance-constrained programming is adopted for processing. Then, a bi-layer game equilibrium model with IESO as a leader and UA, SESO, and WFO as followers is proposed, and the existence and uniqueness of Stackelberg equilibrium solution are proved. Finally, simulation calculation is carried out based on the YALMIP toolbox in the Matlab R2023a software, and the improved particle swarm optimization algorithm and CPLEX solver are used to solve the model. The results demonstrate that the participation of SESO and WFO as independent stakeholders in the game interaction can improve the economic and environmental benefits of MAIES. The iterative optimization of demand response subsidy prices can effectively motivate users to participate in demand response, improve the ability of MAIES to cope with the uncertain risks of renewable energy generation and load, and reduce the power grid dispatch pressure.
Evaluating the risk to Australia’s flora from Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: McDougall Keith L. , Barrett Sarah , Velzeboer Renate , Cahill David M. , Rudman Tim
Published: May 2024

Context Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands is a destructive pathogen of Australian native vegetation, often causing permanent damage to ecosystems and threatening the survival of rare, susceptible species. Despite that, much information about the effects of P. cinnamomi on plant species remains unpublished and the risk of extinction to most species is unknown. Aims We aimed to classify the risk of extinction from P. cinnamomi to Australian native plants. Methods We used available data and personal knowledge about P. cinnamomi effects on plants, spatial data on plant species distribution and habitat suitability of P. cinnamomi to assign an extinction-risk category of low, moderate, high or very high. Key results There are currently 65 plant species at a very high risk of extinction in Australia as a result of P. cinnamomi infection. The genera Andersonia, Banksia, Darwinia, Daviesia, Epacris, Gastrolobium, Grevillea, Hibbertia, Isopogon, Lambertia, Latrobea, Leucopogon, Phebalium and Styphelia have multiple species at a very high risk of extinction, most of which occur in south-western Western Australia. Conclusions The available data confirmed the high risk to the Australian flora from P. cinnamomi and identified species in plant families not previously known to be affected, highlighting data gaps (e.g. lack of knowledge about effects and risk in orchids and grasses). Implications Much more work is required to fully understand the risk from P. cinnamomi (and other Phytophthora species) to the Australian flora.
A call for open science in forensics
Authors: Albright Thomas D. , Scurich Nicholas
Published: May 2024

The modern canon of open science consists of five “schools of thought” that justify unfettered access to the fruits of scientific research: i) public engagement, ii) democratic right of access, iii) efficiency of knowledge gain, iv) shared technology, and v) better assessment of impact. Here, we introduce a sixth school: due process. Due process under the law includes a right to “discovery” by a defendant of potentially exculpatory evidence held by the prosecution. When such evidence is scientific, due process becomes a Constitutional mandate for open science. To illustrate the significance of this new school, we present a case study from forensics, which centers on a federally funded investigation that reports summary statistics indicating that identification decisions made by forensic firearms examiners are highly accurate. Because of growing concern about validity of forensic methods, the larger scientific community called for public release of the complete analyzable dataset for independent audit and verification. Those in possession of the data opposed release for three years while summary statistics were used by prosecutors to gain admissibility of evidence in criminal trials. Those statistics paint an incomplete picture and hint at flaws in experimental design and analysis. Under the circumstances, withholding the underlying data in a criminal proceeding violates due process. Following the successful open-science model of drug validity testing through “clinical trials,” which place strict requirements on experimental design and timing of data release, we argue for registered and open “forensic trials” to ensure transparency and accountability.
Aruba’s Tourism Resilience: Navigating Through Crises and Building a Diverse and Adaptive Industry
Authors: Ridderstaat Jorge R.
Published: May 2024

The case study of Aruba’s tourism industry showcases how the island quickly bounces back from different crises, thanks to its varied tourist attractions, successful marketing as “One Happy Island,” and solid collaborations between the government and private sector. Aruba’s ability to adapt demonstrates its strength in facing challenges, making it a prime example for other economies heavily relying on tourism. The study details Aruba’s strategies in responding to tough times, such as economic slumps and the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the critical role played by offering a wide range of tourist activities, maintaining a solid brand identity, and working closely with partners to build a resilient tourism sector that can withstand hardships.

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© The Author 2024
Emerging γ-soft-like spectrum in 196Pt in the SU3-IBM (I)*
Authors: Wang 王 Tao 涛 , He 何 Bing-Cheng 秉承 , Zhou 周 Chun-Xiao 春晓 , Li 李 Dong-Kang 东康 , Fortunato Lorenzo
Published: May 2024

Recently, studies have argued that a spherical-like spectrum emerges in the SU3-IBM, thus creating new approaches to understanding γ-softness in realistic nuclei. In a previous study, γ-softness with degeneracy of the ground and quasi-γ bands was observed. In this paper, another special point connected to the middle degenerate point is discussed. It is found to be related to the properties of 196Pt. This emergent γ-softness is also shown to be important for understanding the prolate-oblate asymmetric shape phase transition. The low-lying spectra,

values, and quadrupole moments in 196Pt are discussed, and we show that the new model can account for several observed features. This is the first part of the discussion on the γ-soft-like spectrum of 196Pt.
New H i Observations Toward the NGC 5055 Galaxy Group with FAST
Authors: Liu Xiao-Lan , Zhu Ming , Xu Jin-Long , Jiang Peng , Zhang Chuan-Peng , Yu Nai-Ping , Wang Jun-Jie , Yang Yan-Bin
Published: May 2024

We report a new high-sensitivity H i mapping observation of the NGC 5055 galaxy group over an area of 1.°5 × 0.°75 with the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST). Our observation reveals that the warped H i disk of NGC 5055 is more extended than what was previously observed by WSRT, out to 23.′9 (61.7 kpc). The total H i mass of NGC 5055 is determined to be ∼1.1 × 1010
M
⊙. We identified three H i clouds with H i masses of the order of ∼107
M
⊙ at the southeastern edge of the H i disk, as well as a candidate high-velocity cloud with an H i mass of (1.2 ± 0.5) × 106
M
⊙ to the north of NGC 5055. The H i content of UGCA 337 is robustly detected for the first time by the FAST observations. It has a narrow H i linewidth of W
50 = 17.4 ± 3.8 km s−1 with a total H i mass of (3.5 ± 0.3) × 106
M
⊙. Comparing the gas content and g−r color of UGCA 337 with typical low-mass dwarf galaxies, UGCA 337 appears relatively gas-poor despite its blue color. This suggests that UGCA 337 may have undergone gas stripping in the past. We also analyzed the possible origin of the diffuse H i clouds located at the outskirts of NGC 5055, and speculate that they might be the remnant features of a merger event in the past.
Metal-modulated epitaxy of Mg-doped Al0.80In0.20N-based layer for application as the electron blocking layer in deep ultraviolet light-emitting diodes
Authors: Solís-Cisneros Horacio Irán , Hernández-Gutiérrez Carlos Alberto , Campos-González Enrique , López-López Máximo
Published: May 2024

This work reports the growth and characterization of p-AlInN layers doped with Mg by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE). AlInN was grown with an Al molar fraction of 0.80 by metal-modulated epitaxy (MME) with a thickness of 180 nm on Si(111) substrates using AlN as buffer layers. Low substrate temperatures were used to enhance the incorporation of indium atoms into the alloy without clustering, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Cathodoluminescence measurements revealed ultraviolet (UV) range emissions. Meanwhile, Hall effect measurements indicated a maximum hole mobility of 146 cm2/(V∙s), corresponding to a free hole concentration of 1.23 × 1019 cm−3. The samples were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) estimating the alloy composition and extracting the Fermi level by valence band analysis. Mg-doped AlInN layers were studied for use as the electron-blocking layer (EBL) in LED structures. We varied the Al composition in the EBL from 0.84 to 0.96 molar fraction to assess its theoretical effects on electroluminescence, carrier concentration, and electric field, using SILVACO Atlas. The results from this study highlight the importance and capability of producing high-quality Mg-doped p-AlInN layers through PAMBE. Our simulations suggest that an Al content of 0.86 is optimal for achieving desired outcomes in electroluminescence, carrier concentration, and electric field.
Diameter estimate for planar 𝐿_{𝑝} dual Minkowski problem
Authors: Kim Minhyun , Lee Taehun
Published: May 2024

In this paper, given a prescribed measure on

S

1

\mathbb {S}^1

whose density is bounded and positive, we establish a uniform diameter estimate for solutions to the planar

L
p

L_p

dual Minkowski problem when

0
>
p
>
1

0>p>1

and

q
≥
2

q\ge 2

. We also prove the uniqueness and positivity of solutions to the

L
p

L_p

Minkowski problem when the density of the measure is sufficiently close to a constant in

C
α

C^\alpha

.
Spinoza’s Hermeneutic Legacy
Authors: Gjesdal Kristin
Published: May 2024

This chapter discusses Spinoza’s legacy in modern philosophy of interpretation, especially in the works of Johann Gottfried Herder, Friedrich Schleiermacher, and Germaine de Staël. Departing from Spinoza’s sola scriptura principle—according to which interpretation of the Bible should have as its foundation the biblical text and not, for instance, some external philosophical standard—the chapter investigates to what degree hermeneutics can be extended to emancipatory political ends as we come to understand others. It devotes a section each to Herder, Schleiermacher, and Staël. The chapter also seeks to demonstrate that hermeneutics, as it develops in the aftermath of Spinoza, addresses the way we, as finite human beings, relate to others and ourselves.
The love of the past
Authors: Arnold Dana
Published: May 2024

This chapter considers the love of the past as a manifestation of architectural style. It argues that revivals and nostalgia are the two most enduring themes in British architecture. The use of past styles elaborates on the people’s understanding of British architecture and what it means to a diverse public. The chapter then provides an overview into the dominance of social elites who accumulated their wealth in a global context through colonization, slavery and the slave trade, and the appropriation of wealth by looting. It goes on to consider different interpretations of the country house.
The British abroad
Authors: Arnold Dana
Published: May 2024

This chapter discusses the influence of foreign architecture on British design and the influence of British architecture and architects abroad. It explores how the ever-expanding British exploration and colonization of the world influenced architectural design in Britain. Classical architecture is usually viewed as both metaphorically and physically predominantly ‘white’. However, the certainties about European culture and architecture have been unsettled with regard to its racial origins, the use of colour, and more broadly by notions of modernity. The chapter looks at how the architectural profession is becoming more diverse and inclusive as time goes on, in step with the population as a whole.
What language does British architecture speak?
Authors: Arnold Dana
Published: May 2024

This chapter elaborates on how architecture can project a British identity at home and abroad. It primarily focuses on international exhibitions, showing how architecture has morphed from being an expression of empire into an agent of soft power. In 1951 the Festival of Britain showcased collective and individual British achievements, and was intended as a visible sign of national confidence. The chapter provides further detail of the enduring legacy of international exhibitions and World’s Fairs as celebrations of Western colonialism and how these have changed tone since becoming World Expos in the mid-20th century. It then argues that British architecture will always remain in flux, vital and relevant.
Coronary CTA-based vascular radiomics predicts atherosclerosis development proximal to LAD myocardial bridging
Authors: Chen Yan Chun , Zheng Jin , Zhou Fan , Tao Xin Wei , Chen Qian , Feng Yun , Su Yun Yan , Zhang Yu , Liu Tongyuan , Zhou Chang Sheng , Tang Chun Xiang , Weir-McCall Jonathan , Teng Zhongzhao , Zhang Long Jiang
Published: May 2024

Aims

Cardiac cycle morphological changes can accelerate plaque growth proximal to myocardial bridging (MB) in the left anterior descending artery (LAD). To assess coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)-based vascular radiomics for predicting proximal plaque development in LAD MB.

Methods and results

Patients with repeated CCTA scans showing LAD MB without proximal plaque in index CCTA were included from Jinling Hospital as a development set. They were divided into training and internal testing in an 8:2 ratio. Patients from four other tertiary hospitals were set as external validation set. The endpoint was proximal plaque development of LAD MB in follow-up CCTA. Four vascular radiomics models were built: MB centreline (MB CL), proximal MB CL (pMB CL), MB cross-section (MB CS), and proximal MB CS (pMB CS), whose performances were evaluated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), integrated discrimination improvement (IDI), and net reclassification improvement (NRI). In total, 295 patients were included in the development (n = 192; median age, 54 ± 11 years; 137 men) and external validation sets (n = 103; median age, 57 ± 9 years; 57 men). The pMB CS vascular radiomics model exhibited higher AUCs in training, internal test, and external sets (AUC = 0.78, 0.75, 0.75) than the clinical and anatomical model (all P < 0.05). Integration of the pMB CS vascular radiomics model significantly raised the AUC of the clinical and anatomical model from 0.56 to 0.75 (P = 0.002), along with enhanced NRI [0.76 (0.37–1.14), P < 0.001] and IDI [0.17 (0.07–0.26), P < 0.001] in the external validation set.

Conclusion

The CCTA-based pMB CS vascular radiomics model can predict plaque development in LAD MB.
Crossroads of assembling a moss genome: navigating contaminants and horizontal gene transfer in the moss Physcomitrellopsis africana
Authors: Vuruputoor Vidya S , Starovoitov Andrew , Cai Yuqing , Liu Yang , Rahmatpour Nasim , Hedderson Terry A , Wilding Nicholas , Wegrzyn Jill L , Goffinet Bernard
Published: May 2024

The first chromosome-scale reference genome of the rare narrow-endemic African moss Physcomitrellopsis africana (P. africana) is presented here. Assembled from 73 × Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long reads and 163 × Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI)-seq short reads, the 414 Mb reference comprises 26 chromosomes and 22,925 protein-coding genes [Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Ortholog (BUSCO) scores: C:94.8% (D:13.9%)]. This genome holds 2 genes that withstood rigorous filtration of microbial contaminants, have no homolog in other land plants, and are thus interpreted as resulting from 2 unique horizontal gene transfers (HGTs) from microbes. Further, P. africana shares 176 of the 273 published HGT candidates identified in Physcomitrium patens (P. patens), but lacks 98 of these, highlighting that perhaps as many as 91 genes were acquired in P. patens in the last 40 million years following its divergence from its common ancestor with P. africana. These observations suggest rather continuous gene gains via HGT followed by potential losses during the diversification of the Funariaceae. Our findings showcase both dynamic flux in plant HGTs over evolutionarily “short” timescales, alongside enduring impacts of successful integrations, like those still functionally maintained in extant P. africana. Furthermore, this study describes the informatic processes employed to distinguish contaminants from candidate HGT events.
Depression and the Risk of Dementia and All-Cause Mortality Among Japanese Older Adults: A 9-Year Longitudinal Study From JAGES
Authors: Wu Shan , Zhong Xiangbin , Gong Yajie , Yao Yao , Shirai Kokoro , Kondo Katsunori , Wang Xinlei , Guan Liqi , Chen Qiqing , Liu Keyang , Li Yuting
Published: May 2024

Background

This study aims to investigate the association and dose–response relationship between depression, dementia, and all-cause mortality based on a national cohort study of older adults in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal study of 44,546 participants ≥65 years from 2010–2019 Japanese Gerontological Evaluation Study. The Geriatric Depression Scale-15 was used to assess depressive symptoms and the long-term care insurance was used to assess dementia. Fine–Gray models and Cox proportional hazard models were used to explore the effect of depression severity on the incidence of dementia and all-cause mortality, respectively. Causal mediation analysis were used to explore the extent of association between dementia-mediated depression and all-cause mortality.

Results

We found that both minor and major depressive symptoms were associated with the increased cumulative incidence of dementia and all-cause mortality, especially major depressive symptoms (p < .001). The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dementia were 1.25 (1.19–1.32) for minor depressive symptoms and 1.42 (1.30–1.54) for major depressive symptoms in comparison to non-depression; p for trend < .001. The multivariable-adjusted HRs and 95% CIs for all-cause mortality were 1.27 (1.21–1.33) for minor depressive symptoms and 1.51 (1.41–1.62) for major depressive symptoms in comparison to non-depression; p for trend < .001. Depression has a stronger impact on dementia and all-cause mortality among the younger group. In addition, dementia significantly mediated the association between depression and all-cause mortality.

Discussion

Interventions targeting major depression may be an effective strategy for preventing dementia and premature death.
#1154 Type I interferon pathway is upregulated in microscopic polyangiitis (vs granulomatosis with polyangiitis)
Authors: Brilland Benoit , Boizard-Moracchini Andrea , Tortevoie Nathalie , Piccoli Giorgina , Blanco Patrick , Delneste Yves , François Augusto Jean
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

The two main types of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), share common characteristics but also differ on many aspects (epidemiological, genetic, clinical, outcomes). These differences did not justify, to date, different patient management. To identify more specific targetable pathways, we characterized the kidney transcriptome of MPA vs. GPA patients with AAV-glomerulonephritis (AAV-GN).

Method

This retrospective study included adult patients with AAV-GN from the French Maine-Anjou Registry. Immune gene transcript analysis was performed on RNA extracted from 97 kidney biopsies using NanoString technology. Significant transcripts were examined to identify immune pathways of interest. We then used a publicly available dataset to explore these identified pathways (qPCR / ELISA).

Results

We compared kidney biopsies from GPA (n = 33) and MPA (n = 64) patients. There was no difference in eGFR between both groups at diagnosis. Of the 750 evaluated immune transcripts, 8 genes were found differentially expressed between MPA and GPA patients, all being upregulated in MPA (log2FC > 1, q-value < 0.05) (Fig. 1A). Seven (out of 8) genes belonged to the type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling pathway.

A personal analysis of unpublished, publicly available, data1 identified a significantly more pronounced IFN-I signature in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with MPO-AAV when compared to those with PR3-AAV (Fig. 1B). Serum levels or CXCL10, a cytokine that mediates immune responses through the recruitment and activation of numerous immune cells under the regulation of IFN-I, were found higher in MPO-AAV patients (Fig. 1C).

Conclusion

We identified a type I interferon signature, both in kidneys and in blood, in patients with MPA (or MPO-AAV) in comparison to GPA (or PR3-AAV). This is in line with previous lines of evidence brough by Kessenbrock et al. and Kessler et al. suggesting a role for IFN-I in AAV and especially in MPO-AAV. This signature may help gain a deeper understanding of the AAV-GN pathogenesis and provide insights for developing new therapeutic options.