bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin feature point tracking using deep feature encodings
Authors: Chang Jose Ramon , Nordling Torbjörn E. M.
Published: October 2024

Facial feature tracking is a key component of imaging ballistocardiography (BCG) where accurate quantification of the displacement of facial keypoints is needed for good heart rate estimation. Skin feature tracking enables video-based quantification of motor degradation in Parkinson’s disease. While traditional computer vision algorithms like Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT), Speeded-Up Robust Features (SURF), and Lucas-Kanade method (LK) have been benchmarks due to their efficiency and accuracy, they often struggle with challenges like affine transformations and changes in illumination. In response, we propose a pipeline for feature tracking, that applies a convolutional stacked autoencoder to identify the most similar crop in an image to a reference crop containing the feature of interest. The autoencoder learns to represent image crops into deep feature encodings specific to the object category it is trained upon. We train the autoencoder on facial images and validate its ability to track skin features in general using manually labelled face and hand videos of small and large motion recorded in our lab. Our evaluation protocol is comprehensive, including quantification of errors in human annotation. The tracking errors of distinctive skin features (moles) are so small that we cannot exclude the fact that they stem from the manual labelling based on a $$\chi ^2$$

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2

-test. With a mean error of 0.6–3.3 pixels, our method outperformed the other methods in all but one scenario. More importantly, our method was the only one that did not diverge. We also compare our method with the latest state-of-the-art transformer for feature matching by Google—Omnimotion. Our results indicate that our method is superior at tracking different skin features under large motion conditions and that it creates better feature descriptors for tracking, matching, and image registration compared to both traditional algorithms and the latest Omnimotion.
Improving Patient Understanding and Outcomes in Lung Cancer Using an Animated Patient’s Guide with Visual Formats of Learning
Authors: Patel Manish R. , Begnaud Abbie , Blackmon Shanda H. , Dudek Arkadiusz Z. , Fujioka Naomi , Harewood Janine C. K. , Jänne Pasi A. , Kern Shirley , Hawk Lacey Running , Rusk Ann M. , Wilder Fatima G. , Winn Robert , Torrison Nancy , Searle Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Lung cancer patient education resources that address barriers to health literacy, improve understanding, and demonstrate improved patient outcomes are limited. Our study aim was to evaluate and report on learner knowledge improvement and intent to implement behavior change, and validate the benefits of the You and Lung Cancer website and YouTube resources. Our study occurred from November 2017 to December 2023. We evaluated audience reach (visit sessions, unique visitors, country origins, page views) and calculated top views by media type (animations, expert videos, patient videos). We assessed the impact and commitment to change through learner surveys (areas of interest, intention to modify behaviors, and intention to discuss disease management with providers) and tested the knowledge of learners pre- and post-reviewing of website content. Our program reached 794,203 views globally; 467,546 were unique visitors; and 243,124 (51%) were unique visitors from the USA. Of US visitors, 46% identified as lung cancer patients. These were patients in treatment (38%), survivors (8%), family members or caregivers (21%), and healthcare providers (14%) with other audiences unspecified (19%). Three areas of highest learner importance were the animations “Understanding Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer” (180,591), “Staging of Lung Cancer” (144,238), and “Treatment and Management of Small Cell Lung Cancer” (49,244). Our study confirmed areas of importance to lung cancer patients and suggests that visual formats of learning, such as animations, can mitigate health literacy barriers and help improve patient understanding and outcomes. Exporting this format of learning to other cancers has the potential to benefit patients and improve health outcomes.
Exploring Key Capacities: Insights from Assessing the Resilience of the Public Health System Before and After the Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes
Authors: Tayfur Ismail , Kako Mayumi , Gündüz Abdülkadir , Rahman Md Moshiur , Şimşek Perihan , Ryan Benjamin , Garner Shelby , Bayramoğlu Burcu , Teramoto Chie , Takada Yosuke , Kubo Tatsuhiko , Bhatia Sanjaya
Published: October 2024

The goal of this mixed-methods study was to identify and compare the key capacity considerations regarding public health system resilience before and after the 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquakes. Public health system resilience was assessed through online and face-to-face workshops using the United Nations Public Health System Resilience Scorecard. The pre-earthquake evaluation was conducted in Istanbul and Trabzon in 2021; the post-earthquake evaluation took place in Hatay and Kahramanmaraş in 2023, with a total of 41 participants each. The online workshops lasted approximately four days, while the face-to-face workshops lasted one day. The study found a significant decrease in the scores for most scorecard resilience indicators in the post-earthquake assessment. Qualitative analysis showed that this decline was largely due to infrastructure collapse. Additionally, defining the roles of health disciplines in disaster management and having data transmission procedures between public health system stakeholders in disasters were among the main capacity considerations in both the pre-and post-earthquake assessments. The post-earthquake evaluation revealed several capacity gaps that had not been addressed in pre-earthquake assessments in areas such as disaster preparedness of vulnerable populations and logistics. The findings highlight the critical importance of strengthening building stock and infrastructure to establish a disaster-resilient public health system.
The impact of reabsorption effect on composition analysis of organic semiconductors
Authors: Yang Bei , Liu Xiaoke , Wan Li , Ni Weixin , Yang Ni , Hou Jianhui , Gao Feng
Published: October 2024

Reabsorption is one of the most fundamental optical phenomena, but it has rarely been considered in spectroscopy-based composition analysis for organic semiconductors. Here, we take four state-of-the-art organic solar cell (OSC) materials as examples, and systematically investigate the influence of reabsorption on photoluminescence emission and excitation spectra by both experimental studies and optical simulations. We find that the overlap between absorption and emission spectra of these OSC materials is strong enough for them to be affected by the reabsorption effect, and the effect becomes more obvious between different species in the multi-components systems. Moreover, three features of the reabsorption effect and the reabsorption strength are identified, with which we have successfully analyzed the composition in a range of OSC materials in both solution and solid-state films. Our work not only provides an important understanding of the largely overlooked feature of reabsorption in the widely used spectroscopic techniques but also offers an effective toolbox for the composition analysis of organic semiconductors.
Rice Response to Struvite and Other Phosphorus Fertilizers in a Phosphorus-Deficient Soil Under Simulated Furrow-irrigation
Authors: Brye Jonathan B. , Lunga Diego Della , Brye Kristofor R.
Published: October 2024

Wastewater-recovered phosphorus (P), in the form of the mineral struvite (MgNH4PO4⋅6H2O), may provide a sustainable alternative to decreasing rock-phosphate reserves. Struvite can be generated via precipitation methods, potentially reducing the amount of P runoff to aquatic ecosystems. The objective of this greenhouse tub study was to evaluate the effects of chemically- and electrochemically precipitated struvite (CPST and ECST, respectively) on above- and belowground plant response in a hybrid rice (Oryza sativa) cultivar grown using furrow-irrigation compared to other common fertilizer-P sources [i.e., triple super phosphate (TSP) and diammonium phosphate (DAP)]. Rice was grown in tubs in controlled environmental conditions in a greenhouse for a full growing season in a P-deficient, silt-loam soil (Typic Glossaqualfs). Plant nutrients (i.e., N. P. K. Mg, Zn) were determined at the end of the growing season through Mehlich-3 extraction. Below- and aboveground rice dry matter (DM), root-P concentration and uptake, aboveground tissue-P uptake, total aboveground and total plant DM, grain yield, and grain P uptake from CPST and ECST did not differ from DAP or TSP. However, aboveground tissue-P concentration was greater (P < 0.05) from TSP (0.05%) than from ECST, CPST, and the unamended control (UC). Total aboveground (i.e., vegetative plus grain) tissue-P uptake was largest (P < 0.05) from TSP (4.8 g m− 2), which did not differ from DAP or CPST, and was at least 1.1 times greater than from ECST and the UC. Despite only a few differences from the UC, the many similar rice responses among struvite and other common fertilizer-P sources suggest that struvite, especially ECST, is a potential alternative fertilizer-P source that warrants further research into struvite’s role in food production.
Exploring Complexities of Political Ecology in the Research and Practice of Environmental Education
Authors: Hart Paul
Published: October 2024

This paper explores educational fallout from the realisation that the world system has planetary boundaries as limits that are real and that require different thinking and governance concerning how human beings ought to inhabit the planet. It will be difficult to have billions of people think about global concerns when they are focused on their own well-being. And so it comes to governance, locally, with bigger things in mind. Environmental education rhetoric has already begun to expand thinking to engage world systems as groundings for the politics that underpins decision-making above and beyond levels of theory/praxis. The educational challenge will be to lay out background theory and guidelines as we find ways to engage politically the problems amidst the power and control of the people that we elect as “leaders” at each level of educational and political systems. However, the challenge has been taken up and environmental education has created openings for exploring complexities of political ecology within environmental education.
Cancer Care After Türkiye-Syrian Earthquakes: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sert Gürkan , Gözderesi Yakup , Kesen Yurtcanlı Yurtcanl Cemre Hilal , Barış Maide , Hıdıroğlu Seyhan
Published: October 2024

Objectives

In the field of cancer, many cancer patient associations (CPAs) have been established in Türkiye to support individuals living with cancer (ILCs) throughout the diagnosis and treatment processes. The presence of CPAs for ILCs became more significant after the major earthquakes in southeastern Türkiye in February 2023. The aim of this study is to identify the challenges of ILCs after the earthquakes from the perspective of CPA members.

Methods

This study employed a qualitative approach. The data collection method was in-depth interviews. Semi-structured, open-ended interviews were conducted with 15 volunteers who work with ILCs, selected through purposeful sampling. The data were analyzed by using inductive thematic analysis. This study was conducted between April and May 2023.

Results

Three main themes (problems of ILCs caused by earthquakes, access to health care, future concerns) and 11 subthemes were extracted through analyzing interviews.

Conclusion

ILCs experienced diverse difficulties after earthquakes. Members of CPAs observed that acute interventions to injured people and humanitarian aid activities had the first-place importance after the earthquake, while cancer-related care took the second place, anticipating devastating outcomes for the future of their care. CPAs should be supported by the public, local governments, and central government in their endeavors for ILCs.
Mechanism of instability in non-uniform dusty channel flow
Authors: Kumar Anup , Govindarajan Rama
Published: October 2024

Particles in pressure-driven channel flow are often inhomogeneously distributed. Two modes of low-Reynolds-number instability, absent in Poiseuille flow of clean fluid, are created by inhomogeneous particle loading, and their mechanism is worked out here. Two distinct classes of behaviour are seen: when the critical layer of the dominant perturbation overlaps with variations in particle concentration, the new instabilities arise, which we term overlap modes. But when the layers are distinct, only the traditional Tollmien–Schlichting mode of instability occurs. We derive the dominant critical-layer balance equations in this flow along the lines done classically for clean fluid. These reveal how concentration variations within the critical layer cause the two particle-driven instabilities. As a result of these variations, disturbance kinetic energy production is qualitatively and majorly altered. Surprisingly, the two overlap modes, although completely different in the symmetry of the eigenstructure and regime of exponential growth, show practically identical energy budgets, highlighting the relevance of variations within the critical layer. The wall layer is shown to be unimportant. We derive a minimal composite theory comprising all terms in the complete equation which are dominant somewhere in the flow, and show that it contains the essential physics. When particles are infinitely dense relative to the fluid, the volume fraction is negligible. But for finite density ratios, the volume fraction of particles causes a profile of effective viscosity. This is shown to be uniformly stabilizing in the present flow. Gravity is neglected here, and will be important to study in the future. So will the transient growth of perturbations due to non-normality of the stability operator, in a quest for the mechanism of transition to turbulence.
Salivary iodine concentrations can estimate iodine intake and diagnose abnormal thyroid function: a cross-sectional study in pregnant and lactating women in iodine-deficient areas
Authors: Wang Chenchen , Tayier Rishalaiti , Nie Jiaoyang , Zhu Yuming , Muhetaer Dawureni , Mangekuli Halamulati , Lin Qin
Published: October 2024

Salivary iodine concentrations (SIC) and urinary iodine concentrations are correlated. This study aimed to verify the use of SIC as a biomarker for estimating iodine intake in pregnant and lactating women and to diagnose abnormal thyroid function. A cross-sectional study was conducted in northern Xinjiang, China. Participants provided venous blood, random urine, saliva and milk samples. A total of 607 pregnant and 171 lactating women volunteered to participate in the study. The average daily iodine intake was calculated for each participant. Pregnant women were divided according to trimester. The median daily iodine intake was 436·41 μg/d in the first trimester, 425·83 μg/d in the second trimester and 430·56 μg/d in the third trimester. The average daily iodine intake in lactating women was 416·16 μg/d. Different indicators were used to diagnose excessive iodine intake (> 500 μg/d). Among pregnant women, SIC had an AUC of 0·62 (P < 0·01), sensitivity of 51·75 % and specificity of 65 %. Among lactating women, SIC had an AUC of 0·63 (P = 0·03), sensitivity of 43·52 % and specificity of 85 %. SIC was an effective biomarker for diagnosing abnormal thyroid function (P = 0·03). In conclusion, this study demonstrated that SIC is a reliable biomarker for evaluating both iodine nutrition status and abnormal thyroid function in pregnant and lactating women.
Return of the Eurasian lynx: using local stakeholder knowledge and experiences to inform lynx conservation in the French Alps
Authors: Alexander Justine Shanti , Christe Philippe , Zimmermann Fridolin
Published: October 2024

Large carnivore conservation in human-dominated landscapes is a complex issue, often marked by the stark contrast between those who hold deep-rooted animosity towards these animals and those who welcome their presence. The survival of the Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx in Europe relies on effective coexistence with humans in multi-use areas. We explored the experiences and perceptions of local hunters and pastoralists regarding the return of the lynx to the Giffre Valley, France, and mapped lynx distribution based on the probability of site use while accounting for detection probability. We conducted in-depth interviews with 29 respondents to gather data on lynx sightings, rationale for hunting and pastoralism, and perceptions of lynxes. We found that 45% of respondents had detected lynxes in the last 40 years, with an estimated site use of 0.66 ± SE 0.33 over the last decade, indicating there was a 66% probability of lynxes using the sites during that time period. Our results suggest that hunting and pastoralism in the region are rooted in a desire to carry on local traditions and connect with the natural world. Respondents generally tolerated the presence of lynxes, perceiving few threats to their livelihoods and activities, and expressing a willingness to coexist peacefully. However, some identified future challenges that could arise with the return of large carnivores to the valley and highlighted scenarios that could lead to a decline in tolerance. This study emphasizes the valuable knowledge of local hunters and pastoralists and their potential role in lynx population monitoring and conservation. Integrating stakeholder values in decision-making processes is crucial for inclusive and sustainable responses to promote biodiversity.
Preconception and prenatal vitamin D associations with positive behavioral health in Black children
Authors: Hipwell Alison E. , Keenan Kate , Tung Irene , Quick Allysa , Simhan Hyagriv , Bodnar Lisa , Buckner Nia
Published: October 2024

Background

Low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy are associated with offspring behavioral problems but little is known about pre-pregnancy influences. Additionally, Black American individuals are underrepresented in studies, limiting translational impact. We tested independent and interactive effects of preconception and prenatal vitamin D in Black women in relation to positive behavioral and emotional outcomes in early childhood.

Methods

Black-identifying participants (N = 156) enrolled in the longitudinal Pittsburgh Girls Study (PGS) provided venous blood samples before and during pregnancy to measure 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels. Participants completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic factors, depression severity and life stress, and later reported on child behavioral and emotional problems and prosocial behavior between 2 and 4 years.

Results

Mean serum 25(OH)D concentrations were 15.5 ng/ml (s.d. = 7.7) before pregnancy and 18.0 ng/ml (s.d. = 9.2) during pregnancy; below the sufficiency threshold according to commonly used dietary guidelines. After adjusting for covariates, prenatal 25(OH)D was negatively related to behavior problems and positively related to prosocial behavior in children, although the association attenuated for behavior problems after accounting for preconception 25(OH)D, which may reflect patterns of stability. Maternal 25(OH)D was unrelated to child emotional problems, and no synergistic effects of 25(OH)D timing were observed for any child outcome.

Conclusions

Findings have relevance for Black women living in the northeast U.S. Results suggest specific associations between maternal vitamin D and positive behaviors in early childhood, regardless of sufficiency levels and suggest potential opportunities for early interventions to support healthy child development.
The effect of reference material crystallinity on absolute quantitative phase analysis using the internal standard method
Authors: Rowles Matthew R.
Published: October 2024

Equations are given which allow an analyst to obtain a correct absolute quantitative phase analysis via the internal standard method when a reference material with a known crystallinity of less than 100% is used. Comparisons are made with previous equations, and a numerical example is given.
Understanding consumer beliefs and choices related to food safety: a qualitative study in urban Ethiopia
Authors: Nordhagen Stella , Hagos Smret , Gebremedhin Genet , Lee James
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Provide an in-depth examination of consumers’ food safety beliefs and practices to draw implications for interventions to improve nutrition and food safety in Ethiopia.

Design:

Adapted Focused Ethnographic Study approach using in-person semi-structured interviews and free-listing exercises, in two iterative phases.

Setting:

A traditional food market in Hawassa, a mid-sized city.

Participants:

Forty-six market shoppers, selected randomly in line with quotas for age and gender.

Results:

Consumers did not clearly differentiate between quality and safety, seeing them through connected concepts such as ‘freshness’. While most respondents had some understanding of the causes of unsafe food, they did not generally worry about becoming ill themselves and felt food safety risks were easily mitigated through in-home behaviours. Thus, food safety practices were not a main motivator of market or vendor choice. There was no evidence that food safety concerns led consumers to prefer packaged, processed food or to avoid consuming fresh foods.

Conclusions:

The study offers novel depth and detail on a topic of strong policy relevance. While building on an encouraging base of understanding of food safety, there remains considerable scope for increasing knowledge, particularly with regard to the need to procure safe food as opposed to expecting household-level practices to mitigate all safety risks. Motivating customers to give food safety factors more consideration when making food purchasing decisions, such as by leveraging emotion-based communication from trusted messengers to elevate the issue’s salience in their minds, may contribute to improvements in food safety in low-income countries such as Ethiopia.
Resilience and coping styles in family caregivers of terminally ill patients: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Shimizu Yoichi , Hayashi Akitoshi , Maeda Isseki , Miura Tomofumi , Inoue Akira , Takano Mayuko , Aoyama Maho , Masukawa Kento , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Coping styles can be improved by dyadic palliative care interventions and may alleviate patients’ and family caregivers’ distress. Moreover, family caregivers’ preloss resilience protects against depression after bereavement. This study aimed to determine the types of coping styles can be encouraged to increase resilience.

Methods

A self-reported questionnaire survey was administered to family caregivers at the 4 palliative care units, and their resilience was assessed using the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and their coping styles were assessed using the Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced, as well as their background characteristics.

Results

Among 291 caregivers with a mean CD-RISC score of 56.2 (standard deviation: 16.13), internal locus of control, educational level, and history of psychotropic drug use were associated with resilience. After adjusting for the aforementioned factors, more frequent use of positive coping styles such as active coping (Spearman’s ρ = 0.29), acceptance (ρ = 0.29), positive reframing (ρ = 0.29), planning (ρ = 0.24), and humor (ρ = 0.18), was found to be associated with higher resilience. On the contrary, more frequent use of negative coping styles such as behavioral disengagement (ρ = −0.38), self-blame (ρ = −0.27), and denial (ρ = −0.14) was found to be associated with less resilience.

Significance of results

By assessing internal locus of control, educational level, and history of psychotropic medication use of family caregivers, as factors associated with their respective resilience, may help identify less resilient family caregivers who are at risk for developing major depression after bereavement. In addition, coping skill-based educational interventions targeting patients and their family caregivers that focus on specific coping styles associated with resilience may increase family caregivers’ resilience, resulting in less emotional distress and a lower risk of major depression after bereavement.
Chancen und Hürden der Digitalisierung
Authors: Hegedüs Anna , Hasler Melina , Domonell Kristina , Willener Daniela , Chiapparini Emanuela
Published: October 2024

Was ist zu diesem Thema bekannt?

Die Digitalisierung stellt Betroffene vor Herausforderungen. Zugangshürden erschweren die soziale Teilhabe in der Gesellschaft und mangelnde finanzielle Ressourcen fördern den digitalen Ausschluss.

Wie wird eine neue Perspektive eingebracht?

Wir verdeutlichen die Hürden der Digitalisierung für vulnerable Personengruppen entlang des Modells zur digitalen Gesundheitskompetenz (E-Health Literacy Framework).

Was sind die Auswirkungen für die Praxis?

Die Erfassung der digitalen Gesundheitskompetenz der Klient_innen ermöglicht Pflegefachpersonen individuelle Unterstützungsangebote abzuleiten, die Anwendung zu begleiten und die eigenständige Nutzung zu fördern.
Rainfall Makes the Ocean a Greater Carbon Sink
Authors: Meduna Veronika
Published: October 2024

Rain has so far been ignored in calculations of the ocean’s capacity to take up carbon, but a new estimate shows it enhances the ocean sink by 5%–7%.
Mapping Landslide Risk in the United States and Puerto Rico
Authors: Owen Rebecca
Published: October 2024

A new method provides highly accurate continental-scale landslide susceptibility maps that are being used in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Lithospheric Structure in the Northern Appalachian Mountains: A Detailed Examination of the Abrupt Change in Crustal Thickness in Northwestern Massachusetts
Authors: Masis Roberto , Long Maureen D. , Karabinos Paul , Bourke James
Published: October 2024

Previous geophysical studies in the New England Appalachians identified a ∼15 km offset in crustal thickness near the surface boundary between Laurentia and the accreted terranes. Here, we investigate crustal structure using data from a denser array: New England Seismic Transects experiment, which deployed stations spaced ∼10 km apart across the Laurentia‐Moretown terrane suture in northwestern Massachusetts. We used receiver function (RF) analysis to detect P to SV converted waves and identified multiple interfaces beneath the transect. We also implemented a harmonic decomposition analysis to identify features at or near the Moho with dipping and/or anisotropic character. Beneath the Laurentian margin, the Ps converted phase from the Moho arrives almost 5.5 s after the initial P wave, whereas beneath the Appalachian terranes, the pulse arrives at 3.5 s, corresponding to ∼48 and ∼31 km depth, respectively. The character of the RF traces beneath stations in the middle of our array suggests a complex transitional zone with dipping and/or anisotropic boundaries extending at least ∼30 km. This extension is measured in our profiles and perpendicular to the suture. We propose one possible crustal geometry model that is consistent with our observations and results from previous studies.
NPM1-fusion proteins promote myeloid leukemogenesis through XPO1-dependent HOX activation
Authors: Shimosato Yuko , Yamamoto Keita , Jia Yuhan , Zhang Wenyu , Shiba Norio , Hayashi Yasuhide , Ito Shuichi , Kitamura Toshio , Goyama Susumu
Published: October 2024

Nucleophosmin (NPM1) is a nucleolar protein and one of the most frequently mutated genes in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition to the commonly detected frameshift mutations in exon12 (NPM1c), previous studies have identified NPM1 gene rearrangements leading to the expression of NPM1-fusion proteins in pediatric AML. However, whether the NPM1-fusions are indeed oncogenic and how the NPM1-fusions cause AML have been largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the subcellular localization and leukemogenic potential of two rare NPM1-fusion proteins, NPM1::MLF1 and NPM1::CCDC28A. NPM1::MLF1 is present in both the nucleus and cytoplasm and occasionally induces AML in the mouse transplantation assay. NPM1::CCDC28A is more localized to the cytoplasm, immortalizes mouse bone marrow cells in vitro and efficiently induces AML in vivo. Mechanistically, both NPM1-fusions bind to the HOX gene cluster and, like NPM1c, cause aberrant upregulation of HOX genes in cooperation with XPO1. The XPO1 inhibitor selinexor suppressed HOX activation and colony formation driven by the NPM1-fusions. NPM1::CCDC28A cells were also sensitive to menin inhibition. Thus, our study provides experimental evidence that both NPM1::MLF1 and NPM1::CCDC28A are oncogenes with functions similar to NPM1c. Inhibition of XPO1 and menin may be a promising strategy for the NPM1-rearranged AML.
Enhanced mGluR5 intracellular activity causes psychiatric alterations in Niemann Pick type C disease
Authors: Toledano-Zaragoza Ana , Enriquez-Zarralanga Violeta , Naya-Forcano Sara , Briz Víctor , Alfaro-Ruíz Rocío , Parra-Martínez Miguel , Mitroi Daniel N. , Luján Rafael , Esteban José A. , Ledesma María Dolores
Published: October 2024

Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) is caused by mutations in the cholesterol transport protein NPC1 leading to the endolysosomal accumulation of the lipid and to psychiatric alterations. Using an NPC mouse model (Npc1nmf164) we show aberrant mGluR5 lysosomal accumulation and reduction at plasma membrane in NPC1 deficient neurons. This phenotype was induced in wild-type (wt) neurons by genetic and pharmacological NPC1 silencing. Extraction of cholesterol normalized mGluR5 distribution in NPC1-deficient neurons. Intracellular accumulation of mGluR5 was functionally active leading to enhanced mGluR-dependent long-term depression (mGluR-LTD) in Npc1nmf164 hippocampal slices. mGluR-LTD was lower or higher in Npc1nmf164 slices compared with wt when stimulated with non-membrane-permeable or membrane-permeable mGluR5 agonists, respectively. Oral treatment with the mGluR5 antagonist 2-chloro-4-((2,5-dimethyl-1-(4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)-1H-imidazol-4-yl)ethynyl)pyridine (CTEP) reduced mGluR-LTD and ameliorated psychiatric anomalies in the Npc1nmf164 mice. Increased neuronal mGluR5 levels were found in an NPC patient. These results implicate mGluR5 alterations in NPC psychiatric condition and provide a new therapeutic strategy that might help patients suffering from this devastating disease.
Ubiquitin regulatory X (UBX) domain-containing protein 6 is essential for autophagy induction and inflammation control in macrophages
Authors: Kim Young Jae , Lee Sung-Gwon , Park So Young , Jeon Sang Min , Kim Soo In , Kim Kyung Tae , Roh Taylor , Lee Sang-Hee , Lee Min Joung , Lee Jinyoung , Kim Hyeon Ji , Lee So Eui , Kim Jin Kyung , Heo Jun Young , Kim In Soo , Park Chungoo , Paik Seungwha , Jo Eun-Kyeong
Published: October 2024

Ubiquitin regulatory X (UBX) domain-containing protein 6 (UBXN6) is an essential cofactor for the activity of the valosin-containing protein p97, an adenosine triphosphatase associated with diverse cellular activities. Nonetheless, its role in cells of the innate immune system remains largely unexplored. In this study, we report that UBXN6 is upregulated in humans with sepsis and may serve as a pivotal regulator of inflammatory responses via the activation of autophagy. Notably, the upregulation of UBXN6 in sepsis patients was negatively correlated with inflammatory gene profiles but positively correlated with the expression of Forkhead box O3, an autophagy-driving transcription factor. Compared with those of control mice, the macrophages of mice subjected to myeloid cell-specific UBXN6 depletion exhibited exacerbated inflammation, increased mitochondrial oxidative stress, and greater impairment of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation pathways. UBXN6-deficient macrophages also exhibited immunometabolic remodeling, characterized by a shift to aerobic glycolysis and elevated levels of branched-chain amino acids. These metabolic shifts amplify mammalian target of rapamycin pathway signaling, in turn reducing the nuclear translocation of the transcription factor EB and impairing lysosomal biogenesis. Together, these data reveal that UBXN6 serves as an activator of autophagy and regulates inflammation to maintain immune system suppression during human sepsis.
Dominant immune tolerance in the intestinal tract imposed by RelB-dependent migratory dendritic cells regulates protective type 2 immunity
Authors: Geiselhöringer Anna-Lena , Kolland Daphne , Patt Arisha Johanna , Hammann Linda , Köhler Amelie , Kreft Luisa , Wichmann Nina , Hils Miriam , Ruedl Christiane , Riemann Marc , Biedermann Tilo , Anz David , Diefenbach Andreas , Voehringer David , Schmidt-Weber Carsten B. , Straub Tobias , Pasztoi Maria , Ohnmacht Caspar
Published: October 2024

Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial for initiating protective immune responses and have also been implicated in the generation and regulation of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg cells). Here, we show that in the lamina propria of the small intestine, the alternative NF-κB family member RelB is necessary for the differentiation of cryptopatch and isolated lymphoid follicle-associated DCs (CIA-DCs). Moreover, single-cell RNA sequencing reveals a RelB-dependent signature in migratory DCs in mesenteric lymph nodes favoring DC-Treg cell interaction including elevated expression and release of the chemokine CCL22 from RelB-deficient conventional DCs (cDCs). In line with the key role of CCL22 to facilitate DC-Treg cell interaction, RelB-deficient DCs have a selective advantage to interact with Treg cells in an antigen-specific manner. In addition, DC-specific RelB knockout animals show increased total Foxp3+ Treg cell numbers irrespective of inflammatory status. Consequently, DC-specific RelB knockout animals fail to mount protective Th2-dominated immune responses in the intestine after infection with Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri. Thus, RelB expression in cDCs acts as a rheostat to establish a tolerogenic set point that is maintained even during strong type 2 immune conditions and thereby is a key regulator of intestinal homeostasis.
Genetic variation, structural analysis, and virulence implications of BimA and BimC in clinical isolates of Burkholderia pseudomallei in Thailand
Authors: Cagape Charlene Mae Salao , Seng Rathanin , Saiprom Natnaree , Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Chewapreecha Claire , Boonyuen Usa , West T. Eoin , Chantratita Narisara
Published: October 2024

Melioidosis is a life-threatening tropical disease caused by an intracellular gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. B. pseudomallei polymerizes the host cell actin through autotransporters, BimA, and BimC, to facilitate intracellular motility. Two variations of BimA in B. pseudomallei have been reported previously: BimABp and BimA B. mallei-like (BimABm). However, little is known about genetic sequence variations within BimA and BimC, and their potential effect on the virulence of B. pseudomallei. This study analyzed 1,294 genomes from clinical isolates of patients admitted to nine hospitals in northeast Thailand between 2015 and 2018 and performed 3D structural analysis and plaque-forming efficiency assay. The genomic analysis identified 10 BimABp and 5 major BimC types, in the dominant and non-dominant lineages of the B. pseudomallei population structure. Our protein prediction analysis of all BimABp and major BimC variants revealed that their 3D structures were conserved compared to those of B. pseudomallei K96243. Sixteen representative strains of the most distant BimABp types were tested for plaque formation and the development of polar actin tails in A549 epithelial cells. We found that all isolates retained these functions. These findings enhance our understanding of the prevalence of BimABp and BimC variants and their implications for B. pseudomallei virulence.
A multi-objective fuzzy programming model for port tugboat scheduling based on the Stackelberg game
Authors: Ren Yangjun , Chen Qiong , Lau Yui-yip , Dulebenets Maxim A. , Li Botang , Li Mengchi
Published: October 2024

To solve the optimization problem of tugboat scheduling for assisting ships in entering and exiting ports in uncertain environments, this study investigates the impact of the decisions of tugboat operators and port dispatchers on tugboat scheduling under the scenario of dynamic task arrival and fuzzy tugboat operation time. Considering the features of the shortest distance tugboat principle, the first available tugboat principle, and the principle of fairness in the task volume of each tugboat, the tugboat company aims to minimize the total daily fuel consumption of tugboat operations, maximize the total buffer time of dynamic tasks, and minimize the total completion time as the objective functions. Due to the limitations of port vessel berthing and departure, as well as the allocation standards for piloting or relocating tugboats, the present study proposes a Stackelberg game-based fuzzy model for port tugboat scheduling with the tugboat operator and port dispatcher acting as decision makers at the upper and lower levels, respectively. A seagull optimization algorithm based on priority encoding and genetic operators is designed as a solution approach. CPLEX, genetic algorithm, standard seagull optimization algorithm, and simulated annealing algorithm are used to compare and analyze the solution results for the 45 problem cases generated from the actual data obtained from the Guangzhou Port. The results verify the efficiency of the proposed seagull optimization algorithm based on priority encoding and genetic operators. Furthermore, additional experiments are conducted to evaluate the changes in fairness coefficient, uncertain parameter correlation coefficients, and objective function correlation coefficients to demonstrate the practicality of the fuzzy programming model. This analysis involves adjusting the confidence level incrementally from 0 to 100% with respect to the model’s uncertain parameters.
The effect of laboratory diet and feeding on growth parameters in juvenile zebrafish
Authors: Hillman Courtney , Cooper Austin H. , Ram Pooja , Parker Matthew O.
Published: October 2024

Despite being one of the most used laboratory species in biomedical, behavioral and physiological research, the nutritional requirements of zebrafish (Danio rerio) are poorly understood, and no standardized laboratory diet exists. Diet and feeding regimen can substantially impact the welfare of the fish and, in turn, experimental reproducibility. Consequently, the establishment of a standardized diet and feeding protocol for laboratory zebrafish is imperative to enhance animal welfare, guarantee research reproducibility and advance the economic and environmental sustainability of laboratory dietary practices. Here the aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the parameters that need to be standardized in future nutritional studies to facilitate future meta-analyses for confirmation of an optimal juvenile diet for growth. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus to identify relevant studies published up to August 2023, and the studies were selected on the basis of the predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. The databases yielded a total of 1,065 articles, of which 14 were included in this review. We conducted data extraction and risk-of-bias analysis in the included studies. Statistical comparisons for specific growth rate, weight gain (%) and length gain (%) parameters were performed to determine the optimal feed for enhanced juvenile growth. We identified significant heterogeneity and caveats to our findings owing to a lack of standardization of experimental conditions in nutritional studies. Our findings highlight an urgent need for research on zebrafish nutrition. Therefore, the standardized parameters we have reported here represent a critical starting point for studies.
The stringency and potential impact of climate laws and policies in the European Union and the 21OECD countries
Authors: Jahn Detlef
Published: October 2024

In this paper, I offer a way to measure the stringency of climate change legislation for macro-comparative studies using publicly available data. The paper is innovative in that it examines the complex interrelationship between national, subnational, and supranational legislation using data from the FaoLex database on environmental laws and policies. It is also novel in that it conducts a contextualized comparison that takes into account different national conditions for climate change policies. The resulting index is the Gross Potential Impact (GPI), which is a measure of the stimulus of legislation before taking into account implementation issues. To demonstrate the validity of the index, findings from case study research on the European Union’s 2020 and 2030 climate and energy frameworks are used. The rest of the paper presents the GPI for 21 OECD countries for the period between 1990 and 2020.
Metal Complexes of Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Kajiwara T.
Published: October 2024

Group 3 elements are classified as the rare earths, including the lanthanides and the actinides. Lanthanides and actinides have 4f and 5f valence electrons, respectively, and their properties are significantly different from those of the d-block transition metals. This chapter focuses mainly on the lanthanides and discusses the properties of the 4f elements. The radii of the electronic distributions of the 4f orbitals are small and they behave like inner-shell electrons. Therefore, the 4f orbitals are not involved in bond formation and hence the orbital angular momentum is retained. The unique magnetic properties of lanthanide complexes are attributed to the presence of orbital angular momentum. The electronic structure is described by LS coupling (Russell–Saunders coupling), which is largely unaffected by the ligands. For this reason, the photochemical properties of luminescent lanthanide complexes are extremely unique; the spectrum is extremely sharp, the emission lifetime is long, and the emission colour is always constant, regardless of the ligands or the structure of the complex. Since the 5f orbitals have a wider spatial distribution and are partially involved in bond formation, their chemical properties are intermediate between those of the d-block elements and the lanthanides.
Advanced trends in detecting boldenone, its metabolites, and precursors in biological matrices: an integrative review of chromatographic methods
Authors: Mendoza Sanabria Sandra Milena , Cárdenas Paola Andrea , Costa Geison Modesti , Alves Izabel Almeida , Aragón Diana Marcela
Published: October 2024

Boldenone (BOL) has been frequently detected in doping cases and food safety investigations over the past few decades.
Syntheses, structures and properties of two new members of the pentaborate family: NaKB5O8(OH)·H2O and KB5O8·2H2O
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Zhang Luyong , Li Fuming , Yang Zhihua , Hou Xueling , Zhang Fangfang
Published: October 2024

Two new members of the pentaborate family were successfully obtained, and their pentaborate FBBs adopt different arrangements. Both crystals have moderate birefringence, which mainly originates from the π-conjugated units.
The construction of multifunctional solid electrolyte interlayers for stabilizing Li6PS5Cl-based all-solid-state lithium metal batteries
Authors: Chen Ya , Gao Xin , Zhen Zheng , Chen Xiao , Huang Ling , Zhou Deli , Hu Tengfei , Ren Bozhen , Xu Runjing , Chen Jiayi , Chen Xiaodong , Cui Lifeng , Wang Guoxiu
Published: October 2024

The established multifunctional interlayers effectively eliminate both anode-initiated and GB-initiated dendrites and guarantee satisfactory battery performance for ASSLMBs.
Chiral helix amplification and enhanced bioadhesion of two-component low molecular weight hydrogels regulated by OH to eradicate MRSA biofilms
Authors: Wang Zhijia , Li Tong , Huang Xuemei , Xu Ran , Zhao Yihang , Wei Jichang , Pi Wenmin , Yao Shuchang , Lu Jihui , Zhang Xiang , Lei Haimin , Wang Penglong
Published: October 2024

With only one hydroxyl group difference, BA and SCU can self-assemble with BBR to form nanofibers with varying helicities. The SCU–BBR hydrogel, having greater helicity, exhibits stronger adhesion and biofilm removal capabilities against MRSA.
Synthetic nanointerfacial bioengineering of Ti implants: on-demand regulation of implant–bone interactions for enhancing osseointegration
Authors: Dong Yilong , Hu Yan , Hu Xinqiang , Wang Lingshuang , Shen Xinkun , Tian Hao , Li Menghuan , Luo Zhong , Cai Chunyuan
Published: October 2024

Nanointerfacial bioengineering of titanium-based implants with synthetic technologies could improve their osseointegration, showing promise to enhance interfacial osteogenesis, preventing peri-implant infection and overcome osteodegenerative stress.
Freon–CO2-assisted purification of single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Huang Yiman , Zhu Xiao , Chen Tao , Li Hongyan , Han Liang , Jia Xilai
Published: October 2024

A Freon–CO2-assisted purification method has been proposed to make highly pure SWCNTs with maintained lengths.
Cell specific mitochondria targeted metabolic alteration for precision medicine
Authors: Ashokan Akash , Birnhak Michael , Surnar Bapurao , Nguyen Felix , Basu Uttara , Guin Subham , Dhar Shanta
Published: October 2024

Mitochondria undergo significant alterations in cancer. Thus, in this study we demonstrate the utility of a dual-targeted polymeric nanoparticle to specifically target the mitochondria of cancer over normal cells for targeted metabolic alteration.
Encapsulated mitochondria to reprogram the metabolism of M2-type macrophages for anti-tumor therapy
Authors: Wang Yonghui , Liu Chang , Ma Xiaodong , Filppula Anne , Cui Youbin , Ye Jiangbin , Zhang Hongbo
Published: October 2024

In this study, our innovative Mito@ZiF-8 system enhances the functionality of isolated mitochondria and reprograms M2 macrophage metabolism upon delivery, ultimately, reducing the tumorigenic potential of breast cancer cells.
Asymmetric [Dy2] molecules deposited into micro-SQUID susceptometers: in situ characterization of their magnetic integrity
Authors: Repollés Ana , Pallarés María Carmen , Aguilà David , Roubeau Olivier , Velasco Verónica , Gella Diego , Barrios Leoní A. , Martínez-Pérez María José , Sesé Javier , Drung Dietmar , Martínez Jesús Ignacio , Schurig Thomas , Le Guennic Boris , Lostao Anabel , Aromí Guillem , Luis Fernando
Published: October 2024

The controlled integration of magnetic molecules into superconducting circuits is key to developing hybrid quantum devices.
Synthesis of self-pillared pentasil zeolites without organic templates and seeds
Authors: Guo Yuliang , Tai Wenshu , Zhao Mingyu , Chen Xiao , Chai Yuchao , Wu Guangjun , Li Landong
Published: October 2024

Self-pillared pentasil (SPP) zeolites with pure MFI topology have been successfully synthesized without the assistance of organic templates and seeds.
[Au]/[Ag]-catalysed synthesis of non-hydrolysable C-glycosides
Authors: Chakraborty Saptashwa , Telang Daksh , Mishra Bijoyananda , Hotha Srinivas
Published: October 2024

Many C-glycosides are synthesized by silver-assisted gold-catalysed glycosidation utilizing ethynylcyclohexyl glycosyl carbonates as glycosyl donors in an efficient manner. The method is quite general, mild and catalytic.
Synthetic studies towards naturally occurring aporpinones: asymmetric synthesis of 1′-deshydroxymethyl analogues of aporpinone A, aporpinone B and 4′-hydroxyaporpinone A
Authors: Mandal Kishor Kumar , Das Swagata , Nanda Samik
Published: October 2024

Herein, we disclose the asymmetric total synthesis of 1′-deshydroxymethyl analogues of naturally occurring aporpinone A, aporpinone B, and 4′-hydroxyaporpinone A, featuring a γ-Z-alkylidene butenolide framework.
Production, characterization and environmental remediation application of emerging phosphorus-rich biochar/hydrochar: a comprehensive review
Authors: Ge Qilong , Dong ChunJuan , Wang GuoYing , Zhang Jing , Hou Rui
Published: October 2024

Owing to the high carbon and phosphorus contents, large specific surface area and slow-release of available P, P-rich biochar/hydrochar (CHAR) have drawn global attention.