bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid-state supercapacitors based on different electrolytes: structural characteristics and comparative performance
Authors: Jin Guimei , Duan Zhiyuan , Dong Zhiwei , Zhou Qihang
Published: October 2024

Solid-state supercapacitors bring huge potential for the next generation of energy storage systems and are especially significant for portable and wearable electronic devices, medical equipment, and smart textiles. This paper provides a concise overview of the device mechanism while discussing the developing status of solid-state supercapacitor electrolytes. The performance evaluation of solid-state supercapacitors is reviewed and compared based on their energy storage characteristics and electrode types (e.g., freestanding, fibre-based, and flexible), followed by an exploration of future research directions and key technical challenges in this field.
Life History Parameters and Spawning Potential Ratio of Upeneus vittatus (Forsskål, 1775) in the Coastal Waters of Lebak and Sukabumi, Indonesia
Authors: Romdoni T A , Simanjuntak C P H , Taryono  , Lisamy S E A , Nurfaiqah S , Munandar A
Published: October 2024

It is necessary to obtain information regarding the life history and stock status of the yellow-striped goatfish (Upeneus vittatus) in the coastal waters of Lebak and Sukabumi, Indonesia. This study aims to determine the stock status of U. vittatus in the coastal waters of Lebak and Sukabumi based on their life history parameters and length-based spawning potential ratio (LB-SPR). Eight hundred seventy-four samples were collected from Binuangeun, Palabuhanratu Nusantara, and Ciwaru Fishing Ports. The monthly length frequency data were obtained from July to December 2022. The results show that the Von Bertalanffy growth parameter was Lt=254(1-e−(0.58(t+0.154)) for males, Lt=239(1-e−(0.42(t+0.221)) for females, and Lt = 258(1-e−(0.37(t+0.246)) for both. The mature gonads of U. vittatus were mostly obtained from October to December. The length of first maturity L50 and L95 were 158 mm and 236 mm for males and 149 mm and 229 mm for females, respectively. The exploitation rate (E) on male, female, and combined U. vittatus revealed that E values exceed 0.5 or are overexploitation. The estimated SPR of U. vittatus was 23%, lower than the target reference point of 40%. Therefore, U. vittatus was fully exploited in the coastal waters of Lebak and Sukabumi.
Community structure of macrozoobenthos as a water quality indicator at Margagiri-Grenyang coastal waters, Banten Bay
Authors: Khasanah S , Riani E , Zairion Z , Sulistiono S
Published: October 2024

Macrozoobenthos live sedentary at the bottom of the waters with slow movements and a relatively long-life cycle, and they are able to respond continuously to changes in water conditions. The aim of this study is to analyze macrozoobenthic ecology as an indicator of water quality at Margagiri-Grenyang coastal waters, Banten Bay. The study was carried out for 5 months from July-November 2022 with six stations. Macrozoobenthos samples were taken using Petersen Grab, and water quality was measured in situ and ex situ. Data analysis was conducted to estimate abundance, biological indices, PCA, similarity index, and AMBI and M-AMBI. The macrozoobenthos at the study site were composed of six phyla (Molusca, Annelida, Echinodermata, Arthropoda, Hoplonemertea, and Nemertea). The highest density of the marozoobenthos was found in July (3178 ind/m2), with moderate diversity (H′) (2.535–2.758), medium-high evenness (E) (0.742–0.833), and low dominance (C) indices (0.157–0.241). Based on PCA, the distribution of macrozoobenthos is influenced by turbidity and TSS parameters. AMBI and M-AMBI analysis showed that macrozoobenthos undisturbed and indicated by good-high water quality.
The Red Snapper Fishery in the Eastern Java Sea and Its Fishery Management Recommendation
Authors: Hapsari A D , Zairion Z , Kamal M M
Published: October 2024

For decades, the red snapper fishery has been considered a potential demersal fishery in the east part of Java Sea. The fluctuating fishing effort caused the biomass of red snapper has a fluctuate every year. The study’s goal is to analyze the changing conditions of the red snapper fishery in the east part of Java Sea as a basis for developing management recommendations. The production and efforts data were collected from Brondong Nusantara Fishing Port from 2008 to 2021. The data was analyzed using a non-equilibrium surplus production model and depicted using Kobe Plot to know the change direction of red snapper fishery. The result shows that red snapper fishery in the east part of Java Sea has been overfishing with the abundance of biomass has been overfished. This study’s recommendations for fisheries management are to limit fishing efforts and allowable catch in order to improve the red snapper fishery in the east part of Java Sea.
Food composition and trophic niches of blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus, 1758) in Madura Strait, Pamekasan, East Java
Authors: Nafella Y , Kamal MM , Ervinia A
Published: October 2024

Blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus) is the main fishery commodity in the Madura Strait, Pamekasan Regency. The sustainability of the crab depends on the suitability of the habitat and the availability of food in the waters. This study aims to analyze the food composition and trophic niches of blue swimming crab in the Madura Strait, Pamekasan Regency. Sampling was conducted using the simple random sampling technique. The analysis included composition of the collection based on length frequency distribution, gastric fullness index, trophic niche area, food niche overlap, crab food composition, and growth (carapace width-weight relationship, and condition factor). The results of the index study showed that the index of stomach content of the female was generally greater than that of the male. Blue swimming crab is classified as a carnivore with the main food being fish. The overlap of the niches of male and female crabs of 0.9328 indicates a high level of competition for food. The male crab has a negative allometric growth pattern, while the female crab has a positive allometric growth pattern. The condition of the crab factor in each month of observation is greater than 0.5 indicating the availability of food and water conditions suitable for crab life.
Biology reproduction and population dynamics of Caesio cuning (Family: Caesionidae) in Kendari Waters, Banda Sea, Indonesia
Authors: Prihatiningsih  , Nurdin E , Taufik M , Panggabean A S , Tirtadanu  , Mahulette R T , Nurulludin  , Chodrijah U , Muchlis N
Published: October 2024

The Redbelly yellowtail fusilier with the local name Ekor Kuning (Caesio cuning) is a reef fish species found in the waters of the Indo-West Pacific. In Indonesia, it is an economically important fish and is dominantly caught by gill nets, traps and handlines. The intensity of fishing that is carried out continuously is feared to threaten the stock of the species in nature. In order to make its use sustainable, this study attempts to evaluate population dynamics and reproductive biology. The study was carried out in the Kendari waters of the Banda Sea, Indonesia, between April and December 2018. The findings indicated that this fish’s length distribution covered a range of 11,6-29,0 cm FL and the growth pattern was isometric with the length-weight relationship equation W=0,0206L3,0612. The spawning season peaked in November, and the sex ratio did not deviate considerably from 1:1. The length at first maturity (Lm = 21,73 cm FL) was longer than the length at first capture (Lc =15,5 cm FL) The VBGE for yellowtail was Lt
= 30,45 [1 – e−0,89(t+0,171)]. The value of mortality due to capture (F = 2,19 per year) is greater than natural mortality (M = 0,44 per year). The exploitation rate (E) was recorded as 0,72 per year and the SPR value is 0,22 per year. Based on these parameters, it indicates that the level of exploitation of Caesio cuning in Kendari waters is in overfished so that management needs to be implemented by limiting the smallest fish size that can be caught and to reduce fishing operations during the spawning season.
Technical review of encircling ringed gillnet for gillnet standardization in Indonesia
Authors: Sasmita S , Zarochman  , Sukoraharjo S S , Wassahua Z
Published: October 2024

A technical review of encircling ringed gill nets for gillnet standardization in Indonesia is necessary to determine the design and construction by the waters and their fish target. The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics and design of fishing gear, including dimension, shape, and construction. The result of the identification of encircling ringed gillnet belonging to the local fishermen associated with the size of black pomfret (Parastromateus niger) as the fished target is used for the preparation of fishing gear standardization materials for the concerned by adjusting the size of fish target by measuring a fish length of about 150 up to 250 mm or a fish body circumference of about 300 up to 400 mm. As a result, the encircling ringed gillnet is made of nylon monofilament diameter 0.35 mm, and PE 380 d/6 mesh size 76,2 mm, ML = 2879 mesh, and MD = 218 mesh with an upper rope length of 120.65 m shorter than the lower rope 142,6 m. This Gillnet has a buoyancy of 173.6 grf/m and a sinking power of 124,7 grf/m or a buoyancy ratio of 1,39 sinking power. The gillnet is trapezoidal-shaped, operated by making the circumference of the net to fish closed around FAD (Fish Aggregating Device) near waters of more than 20 m depth with an attached net height of 13,30 m.
The dynamics of social-ecological interactions in the PAAP (fisheries access management area) Taluk Lasolo Region, North Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province: A comprehensive approach to sustainable renewal
Authors: Ariston M , Adrianto L , Bengen D G , Susanto H A , Zulfikar A
Published: October 2024

This research aims to study the dynamics of social-ecological interactions in the Teluk Lasolo PAAP (Fisheries Access Management Area) in North Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The study adopts a comprehensive approach to sustainable development, utilizing Social-Ecological Network Analysis (SENA). The Teluk Lasolo PAAP area is a complex environment with small-scale fisheries as a crucial component of the coastal ecosystem. Using the SENA method, this research analyzes the interactions between social and ecological dimensions in the context of fisheries management based on access rights. The study also considers economic aspects, governance, and resource utilization within the social-ecological network. The case study is conducted in the Teluk Lasolo area to understand the complex dynamics among various stakeholders, fishing communities, and the coastal ecosystem. The findings of this research will provide profound insights and knowledge about the factors influencing the sustainability of small-scale fisheries and offer recommendations for sustainable updates in fisheries resource management in the region. In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach involving social-ecological interactions in managing small-scale fisheries. The results of this study are expected to make a positive contribution to the development of sustainable fisheries management strategies in the Teluk Lasolo PAAP area and other coastal regions. Kata kunci : Kawasan PAAP Teluk Lasolo, Jejaring Sosial-Ekologi, Perikanan Skala Kecil, Pengelolaan Perikanan Berbasis Hak akses Perikanan.
Connectivity of the social-ecological system of the blue swimming crab fisheries in Rembang
Authors: Utomo RP , Azis A , Nugroho KC
Published: October 2024

The management of blue swimming crabs requires several aspects to be considered, such as social and ecological aspects for the sustainability of small crab fisheries. Fishery management is currently still focused on economic interests, so if this is allowed to continue, it will result in ecosystem degradation. This study aims to determine the components of the social-ecological system of the blue swimming crab fishery and the interrelationships of the crab management factors in Lasem District, especially in Gedongmulyo Village, Rembang from March to June 2023 using a purposive sampling method, including socio-economic data and fishermen’s interviews. Analysis of social-ecological connectivity including resource systems (RG), resource units (RU), resource actors (RA), and resource governance (RG) subsystems, and analyzes management variables using the participatory prospective analysis (PPA) method. The results show the connectivity of the social ecological system of the blue swimming crab fishery in Lasem between Resource Actors and Resource Systems, Resource Units, and Resource Governance. While Resource Governance is negatively related to the Resource System. Re-education about the regulations for the use of non-environmentally friendly fishing gear, the impact on the environment, and fishermen’s awareness of the need to comply with these regulations needs to be carried out.
Thermally tunable phonon–plasmon polariton modes at hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and indium antimonide (InSb) interfaces
Authors: Sana Tahseen , Alkanhal Majeed A S , Ali Ahtisham , Ullah Hafeez , Ghaffar Abdul , Khan Yasin , Yaqoob Muhammad Zeshan
Published: October 2024

This work examines the propagation of thermally tunable phonon–plasmon modes at the interfaces of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and isotropic indium antimonide (InSb). Both theoretical modeling and numerical simulations are carried out to analyze the effect of temperature on surface wave behavior. hBN is realized as a polar material via the Lorentzian model, while InSb is modeled as a temperature-sensitive material (TSM) in the framework of Drude’s model. The possible plasmon–phonon polaritonic interactions are studied for the TSM–elliptic type interface and TSM–hyperbolic type interface. It is reported that by varying the temperature, the surface modes can be tuned for the lower and upper Reststrahlen (RS) bands of hBN. The dispersion curve, effective mode index, propagation length, and phase speed are computed for each case under different temperatures. It is concluded that the hBN–InSb-based phonon–plasmon polariton modes are actively tuned by changing the external temperature in the lower and upper RS bands. Surface waves propagating across the interface can be modulated from the terahertz (THz) region to the infrared (IR) region by changing the temperature of InSb. This study will help researchers to design innovative thermo-optical sensors, plasmonic platforms, detectors, and surface waveguides in the THz and IR regions.
Rolling element bearing fault diagnosis under time-varying speed conditions based on improved wavelet packet transform and envelope order tracking
Authors: Liu Tianhao , Zhang Yongjun , Che Tianyi , Li Xin , Zhao Chenglin
Published: October 2024

Rolling element bearings (REBs) are crucial components of rotating machinery and play an important role in industrial production. Failure of REBs can lead to significant economic losses and catastrophic accidents. In order to ensure their safe and stable operation, we propose a novel approach called EOT-IWPT which combines the envelope order tracking (EOT) with an improved wavelet packet transform algorithm (IWPT) for diagnosing failures in REBs under time-varying speed conditions. First, the time- domain vibration signal is resampled at constant angle intervels according to the phase of the rotating shaft to obtain the angle-domian signal. Next, the resampled signal is decomposed to sub-band signals using IWPT. Third, the squared envelope spectra (also called envelope order spectra) of the last layer wavelet packet coefficients are obtained by the Hilbert transform and the Fourier transform. Finally, the diagnostic results can be easily determined based on the squared envelope spectra. The procedure and performance of the proposed approach are illustrated and evaluated through simulation analysis, proving that the proposed method can effectively extract the fault features. Furthermore, experimental analysis results indicate that the proposed method outperforms both EOT-WPT and SK-EOT-BPF.
Study on fatigue performance and topology optimization of cast steel bifurcation joint under alternating load
Authors: Sun Yun , Song Da , Sun Shuxuan , Liu Yangbing
Published: October 2024

The optimal shape under alternating load was studied using the topology optimization method to address the issues of heavy self-weight, insufficient optimization, and inadequate assessment of fatigue life on cast steel bifurcation joints. The numerical simulation analysis of a typical cast steel bifurcation joint under the alternating load was performed to comprehend its mechanical properties. The MSC Fatigue is used to explore and analyze the fatigue behavior of joints, and the control variable approach is used to examine the impact of various geometric parameters on fatigue life. Then, the load spectrum and fatigue life were invertedly calculated and transformed into maximum stress constraints by converting fatigue limitations into stress constraints. Finally, the optimal shape of cast steel bifurcation joint under fatigue limitations was studied using topology optimization methods. The research results show that the intersection of the main and branch pipes is the fatigue performance weakest part of the whole joint, which is different from the static analysis results. The geometric parameters affect the joint’s fatigue performance, and the fatigue hazard zone disperses. The topology optimization shapes of cast steel bifurcated joints are different under vertical and horizontal stress constraints, indicating that different load conditions significantly impact topology optimization shapes. When optimizing cast steel bifurcation joints subjected to alternating loads, optimization can be done on the main pipe and branch pipes rather than in the intersection of the main pipe and branch pipes.
Treatment of turbine blades in electric power stations by adding nano oxides to the matrix material (Al80-Ni20)
Authors: Ali Alaa Y , Abdulqader Mohammed S , Darweesh Salih Y
Published: October 2024

A base material of Al80-Ni20 was used and mixed with variable proportions of Nano chromium oxide (Cr2O3) at percentages of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10%, as well as with Nano magnesium oxide (MgO) at percentages of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10%. These mixtures were then applied using the thermal spraying method with a flame. This particular method is commonly used for repairing cracks and protecting turbine blades in electric power stations from external corrosion. However, it is important to note that this method may face challenges when exposed to high-temperature water vapour, salts and other working conditions experienced by turbine blades. Samples were prepared by thermally sintering the coating at 1000 °C for two hours. Various measurements were performed to assess the structural properties using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), as well as other physical tests such as porosity, hardness, adhesion strength and frictional wear. The SEM analysis revealed that the presence of 10% Cr2O3 resulted in a surface that was uniformly free from external defects, whereas the addition of MgO led to a less homogeneous surface. The physical data obtained indicated a preference for Cr2O3, as evidenced by the porosity results (4.5%) observed after thermal sintering at 10%, as well as the hardness (193 HV), adhesion strength (40 MPa) and wear (2.90 × 10−5 g cm−1) measurements. Moreover, the analyses of the properties of MgO under the same conditions included porosity (10%), hardness (155 HV), adhesion strength (35 MPa) and wear (5.50 × 10−5 g cm−1).
Vertical Internal Brow Suspension: A Technique to Avoid Lateral Relapse After Endoscopic Brow Lift
Authors: Bitik Ozan
Published: October 2024

Background

Endoscopic brow lift is an integral component of upper face surgical rejuvenation protocols. Lateral relapse is one of the leading causes of dissatisfaction after endoscopic brow lift.

Objectives

In this study I introduce and evaluate the vertical internal brow suspension (VIBS), a novel fixation technique designed to prevent lateral brow relapse following endoscopic brow lift.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on 118 consecutive endoscopic brow lift cases performed by the author between January 2019 and June 2024 with the VIBS technique. Additionally, a subgroup of 29 patients who underwent isolated endoscopic brow lifts with at least 1 year of follow-up were included in a quantitative analysis of long-term brow position and forehead height.

Results

Significant increases in brow height across all measurement levels (P < .001) were observed in the quantitative analysis subgroup. No significant change in forehead height was noted (P = .927). The VIBS technique also beneficially reduced apparent forehead height in patients with initially high foreheads. Frontal suture extrusions (6.8%) and temporary hair loss around scalp incisions (5.1%) were the most common complications observed in the retrospective analysis of 118 patients.

Conclusions

The VIBS technique effectively prevents lateral brow relapse, achieving stable lateral brow elevation. It is a safe technique with minor complications. It addresses one of the long-standing challenges of the endoscopic brow lift surgery, representing a valuable advancement in upper face rejuvenation procedures.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
Flavonoids in breast milk and their absorption, metabolism, and bioactivity in infants
Authors: Ishisaka Akari , Fujiwara Nao , Mukai Rie , Nishikawa Miyu , Ikushiro Shinichi , Murakami Akira
Published: October 2024

Flavonoids are present in plant foods such as vegetables and fruits and exhibit various physiological effects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ingested flavonoids are absorbed from the intestinal tract and circulated in the blood. Some studies have indicated the presence of flavonoids in breast milk. However, information on their metabolites and concentrations in breast milk and the subsequent transfer to and physiological functions in infants is limited. Therefore, this review presents a compilation of recent findings on the transfer of flavonoids to infants via breast milk and their bioactivities.
Development of KISS1 knockout pigs is characterized by hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, normal growth, and reduced skatole
Authors: Ahern Daniel F , Martins Kyra , Flórez Julio M , Ross Caitlin E , Huisman Abe , Cushman Robert A , Shuping Sydney L , Nestor Casey C , Desaulniers Amy T , White Brett R , Sonstegard Tad S , Lents Clay A
Published: October 2024

Kisspeptin is a major regulator of gonadotropin secretion in pigs. Previously, CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of KISS1 was used to develop a mosaic parental line of pigs to generate offspring that would not need castration due to loss of kisspeptin. The current goal was to characterize growth and reproductive development of F1 pigs from this parental line. Body weights, gonadotropin concentrations and gonadal development were measured from birth through development (boars to 220 days of age, n = 42; gilts to 160 days of age, n = 36). Testosterone, skatole, and androstenone were also measured in boars. Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture for quantification of serum hormones, gonadal tissues were collected for gross morphology and histology, and a fat biopsy was collected (boars) for skatole and androstenone analysis. Body weight did not differ with genotype. There were no differences between KISS1+/+ and heterozygote KISS1+/− animals for most parameters measured. Gonadotropin concentrations were reduced in KISS1−/− boars and gilts compared with KISS1+/+ and KISS1+/− animals (P < 0.05). Concentrations of testosterone in serum and both androstenone and skatole in adipose were less in KISS1−/− boars than in KISS1+/+ and KISS1+/− boars (P < 0.05). Hypogonadism was present in all KISS1−/− gilts and boars. These data indicate that knocking out KISS1 causes hypogonadotropic hypogonadism but does not negatively affect growth in pigs. Only one KISS1 allele is needed for normal gonadotropin secretion and gonadal development, and accumulation of compounds in adipose leading to boar taint.
Group sequential testing of a treatment effect using a surrogate marker
Authors: Parast Layla , Bartroff Jay
Published: October 2024

The identification of surrogate markers is motivated by their potential to make decisions sooner about a treatment effect. However, few methods have been developed to actually use a surrogate marker to test for a treatment effect in a future study. Most existing methods consider combining surrogate marker and primary outcome information to test for a treatment effect, rely on fully parametric methods where strict parametric assumptions are made about the relationship between the surrogate and the outcome, and/or assume the surrogate marker is measured at only a single time point. Recent work has proposed a nonparametric test for a treatment effect using only surrogate marker information measured at a single time point by borrowing information learned from a prior study where both the surrogate and primary outcome were measured. In this paper, we utilize this nonparametric test and propose group sequential procedures that allow for early stopping of treatment effect testing in a setting where the surrogate marker is measured repeatedly over time. We derive the properties of the correlated surrogate-based nonparametric test statistics at multiple time points and compute stopping boundaries that allow for early stopping for a significant treatment effect, or for futility. We examine the performance of our proposed test using a simulation study and illustrate the method using data from two distinct AIDS clinical trials.
On network deconvolution for undirected graphs
Authors: Lin Zhaotong , Pan Isaac , Pan Wei
Published: October 2024

Network deconvolution (ND) is a method to reconstruct a direct-effect network describing direct (or conditional) effects (or associations) between any two nodes from a given network depicting total (or marginal) effects (or associations). Its key idea is that, in a directed graph, a total effect can be decomposed into the sum of a direct and an indirect effects, with the latter further decomposed as the sum of various products of direct effects. This yields a simple closed-form solution for the direct-effect network, facilitating its important applications to distinguish direct and indirect effects. Despite its application to undirected graphs, it is not well known why the method works, leaving it with skepticism. We first clarify the implicit linear model assumption underlying ND, then derive a surprisingly simple result on the equivalence between ND and use of precision matrices, offering insightful justification and interpretation for the application of ND to undirected graphs. We also establish a formal result to characterize the effect of scaling a total-effect graph. Finally, leveraging large-scale genome-wide association study data, we show a novel application of ND to contrast marginal versus conditional genetic correlations between body height and risk of coronary artery disease; the results align with an inferred causal directed graph using ND. We conclude that ND is a promising approach with its easy and wide applicability to both directed and undirected graphs.
Exploring the landscape of automated species identification apps: Development, promise, and user appraisal
Authors: Truong Minh-Xuan A , Van der Wal René
Published: October 2024

Two decades ago, Gaston and O'Neill (2004) deliberated on why automated species identification had not become widely employed. We no longer have to wonder: This AI-based technology is here, embedded in numerous web and mobile apps used by large audiences interested in nature. Now that automated species identification tools are available, popular, and efficient, it is time to look at how the apps are developed, what they promise, and how users appraise them. Delving into the automated species identification apps landscape, we found that free and paid apps differ fundamentally in presentation, experience, and the use of biodiversity and personal data. However, these two business models are deeply intertwined. Going forward, although big tech companies will eventually take over the landscape, citizen science programs will likely continue to have their own identification tools because of their specific purpose and their ability to create a strong sense of belonging among naturalist communities.
Why and How Do Prison Litigation Strategies and Their Cultures Matter?
Authors: Cliquennois Gaëtan
Published: October 2024

This article highlights the main impediments and inequalities in access to justice for prisoners. Access to justice is considered by European institutions to be one of the vehicles for transforming legislation for better respecting human rights. However, we show that the nature and intensity of strategic litigation depend on three main prison litigation models. These models differentially impact access to justice for prisoners through three main obstacles—deterrence, procedural obstacles and legal aid. Hence, by forging the concept of differentiated litigation, this article calls attention to the different ways in which prison litigation is carried out on the ground and how these lead to different impacts on the barriers to access to justice.
Interleukin-22 in Mycobacterium leprae-induced nerve injury
Authors: Geng Hanqing , Bao Fangfang , Wang Chuan , Sun Lele , Xue Xiaotong , Liu Hong , Zhang Furen
Published: October 2024

The neurotropism of Mycobacterium leprae is a unique characteristic that distinguishes it from other mycobacteria. However, the mechanism of peripheral nerve injury in leprosy is still unclear. In this study, immunohistochemistry and qPCR found that skin lesions from people with leprosy expressed IL-22 at a significantly higher rate than other mycobacterium-infected skin lesions, and that IL-22 was concentrated around the cutaneous nerves. Further investigation found that IL-22 is involved in leprosy by regulating neuroinflammation and promoting apoptosis via the JAK-STAT pathway.
Somatic instability of the FGF14-SCA27B GAA•TTC repeat reveals a marked expansion bias in the cerebellum
Authors: Pellerin David , Méreaux Jean-Loup , Boluda Susana , Danzi Matt C , Dicaire Marie-Josée , Davoine Claire-Sophie , Genis David , Spurdens Guinevere , Ashton Catherine , Hammond Jillian M , Gerhart Brandon J , Chelban Viorica , Le Phuong U , Safisamghabadi Maryam , Yanick Christopher , Lee Hamin , Nageshwaran Sathiji K , Matos-Rodrigues Gabriel , Jaunmuktane Zane , Petrecca Kevin , Akbarian Schahram , Nussenzweig André , Usdin Karen , Renaud Mathilde , Bonnet Céline , Ravenscroft Gianina , Saporta Mario A , Napierala Jill S , Houlden Henry , Deveson Ira W , Napierala Marek , Brice Alexis , Molina Porcel Laura , Seilhean Danielle , Zuchner Stephan , Durr Alexandra , Brais Bernard
Published: October 2024

Spinocerebellar ataxia 27B (SCA27B) is a common autosomal dominant ataxia caused by an intronic GAA•TTC repeat expansion in FGF14. Neuropathological studies have shown that neuronal loss is largely restricted to the cerebellum. Although the repeat locus is highly unstable during intergenerational transmission, it remains unknown whether it exhibits cerebral mosaicism and progressive instability throughout life.

We conducted an analysis of the FGF14 GAA•TTC repeat somatic instability across 156 serial blood samples from 69 individuals, fibroblasts, induced pluripotent stem cells and post-mortem brain tissues from six controls and six patients with SCA27B, alongside methylation profiling using targeted long-read sequencing. Peripheral tissues exhibited minimal somatic instability, which did not significantly change over periods of more than 20 years. In post-mortem brains, the GAA•TTC repeat was remarkably stable across all regions, except in the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis. The levels of somatic expansion in the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis were, on average, 3.15 and 2.72 times greater relative to other examined brain regions, respectively. Additionally, levels of somatic expansion in the brain increased with repeat length and tissue expression of FGF14. We found no significant difference in methylation of wild-type and expanded FGF14 alleles in post-mortem cerebellar hemispheres between patients and controls.

In conclusion, our study revealed that the FGF14 GAA•TTC repeat exhibits a cerebellar-specific expansion bias, which may explain the pure cerebellar involvement in SCA27B.
Risk of Tuberculosis After Achieving Human Immunodeficiency Virus Virological Suppression on Antiretroviral Therapy: A Danish Nationwide Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Virdee Amrit Kaur , Knudtzen Fredrikke Christie , Llibre Josep M , Omland Lars Haukali , Obel Niels , Stærke Nina Breinholt , Åhsberg Johanna , Ørsted Iben , Kronborg Gitte , Mohey Rajesh , Montejo Maria del Pilar Fernandez , Johansen Isik Somuncu , Martin-Iguacel Raquel
Published: October 2024

Background

In countries with low tuberculosis burden, the risk of tuberculosis in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; PWH) once HIV virological suppression is achieved is not fully understood.

Methods

In a nationwide cohort, we included all adult PWH from the Danish HIV Cohort initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) (1995–2017) without prior tuberculosis disease. We used Kaplan–Meier estimation and Poisson regression to calculate the tuberculosis incidence rate (IR) after 6 months of ART, along with associated risk factors and mortality rates.

Results

Among 6849 PWH initiating ART (median follow-up, 7.4 years), 84 developed tuberculosis (IR, 1.4/1000 person-years [PY]), 54 of them >6 months after ART initiation (IR, 0.97/1000 PY [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–1.79); 1.95/1000 PY [1.34–2.76] in non–Danish born, 0.36/1000 PY [.21–.62] in Danish born without injection drug use (IDU), and 2.95/1000 PY [1.53–5.66] in Danish born with IDU). Danish-born individuals with suppressed viremia and no IDU or known tuberculosis exposures had the lowest risk (IR, 0.05/1000 PY). In the adjusted analysis, being non–Danish born (adjusted IR ratio, 4.27 [95% CI: 2.36–7.72]), IDU (4.95 [2.55–9.62]), and previous AIDS-defining events (2.05 [1.06–3.94]) raised the tuberculosis risk, while suppressed HIV RNA levels (0.58 [.34–.99]) reduced it. The overall mortality rate for HIV/tuberculosis coinfected after ART was high, at 48.9/1000 PY (95% CI: 30.4–78.7).

Conclusions

The tuberculosis risk remains elevated in PWH beyond 6 months after ART initiation, especially among migrants, those with IDU, those without suppressed HIV RNA, and those exposed to areas highly endemic for tuberculosis or with social risk determinants of health. Conversely, PWH without these risk factors have a tuberculosis risk similar to the general population and would not require targeted tuberculosis screening strategies.
Superiority Trials in Invasive Aspergillosis: A Harsh Reality Check With the IA-DUET (HOVON502) Trial
Authors: Lamberink Hanne , Huygens Sammy , Aerts Robina , Lagrou Katrien , van Leeuwen-Segarceanu Elena , Lodewyck Tom , Nieuwenhuizen Laurens , Corsten Maarten F , Moors Ine , Servais Sophie , De Greef Julien , Hites Maya , Demandt Astrid , Schauwvlieghe Alexander , Maertens Johan , Rijnders Bart
Published: October 2024

The IA-DUET study aimed to compare azole-echinocandin combination therapy with azole monotherapy for invasive aspergillosis. Recruitment was hindered by patient ineligibility, competing studies, and guidelines favoring combination therapy when azole resistance was unknown. The low IA-attributable mortality suggests future trials may benefit from cluster randomization or composite endpoints to enhance efficiency.
Clonality Determination by Detecting Unmodified Monoclonal Serum Free Light Chains Using On-Probe Extraction Coupled with Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yeung Priscilla S W , Liu Yajing , Yang Samuel , Ruan Ashley , Kerr Christina R , Wong Carolyn V , Shi Run-Zhang , Iberri David J , Luo Ruben Y
Published: October 2024

Background

Serum free light chains (FLCs) are an essential clinical biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with plasma cell neoplasms. The current widely used immunoassay methods quantify total serum FLCs, which include monoclonal FLCs as well as FLCs in the polyclonal background. Patients with chronic diseases, inflammatory disorders, or renal dysfunction can have elevated total FLCs that lead to ambiguous results. These patients may benefit from a direct measurement of monoclonal FLCs. The purpose of this study was to develop a method that couples on-probe extraction (OPEX) with liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS), abbreviated to OPEX-MS, to directly determine the clonality of FLCs.

Methods

OPEX immunocapture was performed using microprobes loaded with anti-kappa or anti-lambda light chain antibodies. Captured proteins were separated by reversed-phase LC and analyzed by HR-MS.

Results

Four cohorts of samples from unique patients were tested based on immunoassay FLC results. The LC-HR-MS analysis in the OPEX-MS method provides both a unique retention time along with deconvoluted masses of FLC monomers and dimers for each clone. The study found that 16 out of 49 (33%) kappa FLC elevated samples as well as 83 out of 100 (83%) dual kappa and lambda FLC elevated samples did not have monoclonal FLCs, which is consistent with the knowledge that there is often no clonal population in samples with mildly elevated FLC immunoassay results.

Conclusions

The OPEX-MS method can serve as a complementary approach to directly determine clonality in patients with difficult-to-interpret FLC immunoassay results.
Enhancing Variant Calling in Whole-exome Sequencing Data Using Population-matched Reference Genomes
Authors: Guo Shuming , Huang Zhuo , Zhang Yanming , He Yukun , Chen Xiangju , Wang Wenjuan , Li Lansheng , Kang Yu , Gao Zhancheng , Yu Jun , Du Zhenglin , Chu Yanan
Published: October 2024

Whole-exome sequencing (WES) data are frequently used for cancer diagnosis and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), based on high-coverage read mapping, informative variant calling, and high-quality reference genomes. The center position of the currently used genome assembly, GRCh38, is now challenged by two newly published telomere-to-telomere (T2T) genomes, T2T-CHM13 and T2T-YAO, and it becomes urgent to have a comparative study to test population specificity using the three reference genomes based on real case WES data. Here, we report our analysis along this line for 19 tumor samples collected from Chinese patients. The primary comparison of the exon regions among the three references reveals that the sequences in up to ∼ 1% of target regions in T2T-YAO are widely diversified from GRCh38 and may lead to off-target in sequence capture. However, T2T-YAO still outperforms GRCh38 by obtaining 7.41% of more mapped reads. Due to more reliable read-mapping and closer phylogenetic relationship with the samples than GRCh38, T2T-YAO reduces half of variant calls of clinical significance which are mostly benign, while maintaining sensitivity in identifying pathogenic variants. T2T-YAO also outperforms T2T-CHM13 in reducing calls of Chinese-specific variants. Our findings highlight the critical need for employing population-specific reference genomes in genomic analysis to ensure accurate variant analysis and the significant benefits of tailoring these approaches to the unique genetic background of each ethnic group.
Natural variation in MdNAC5 contributes to fruit firmness and ripening divergence in apple
Authors: Liu Li , Wang Yuanji , Guo Jianhua , Han Ziqi , Yu Kaixuan , Song Yaxiao , Chen Hongfei , Gao Hua , Yang Yazhou , Zhao Zhengyang
Published: October 2024

Fruit firmness is an important trait for characterizing the quality and value of apple. It also serves as an indicator of fruit maturity, as it is a complex trait regulated by multiple genes. Resequencing techniques can be employed to elucidate variations in such complex fruit traits. Here, the whole genomes of 294 F1 hybrids of ‘Fuji’ and ‘Cripp's Pink’ were resequenced, and a high-density binmap was constructed using 5014 bin markers with a total map distance of 2213.23 cM and an average map distance of 0.44 cM. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) of traits related to fruit were mapped, and an A-T allele variant identified in the coding region of MdNAC5 was found to potentially regulate fruit firmness and ripening. The overexpression of MdNAC5A resulted in higher production of methionine and 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid compared to MdNAC5T, leading to reduced fruit firmness and accelerated ripening in apples and tomatoes. Furthermore, the activities of MdNAC5A and MdNAC5T were enhanced through their differential binding to the promoter regions of MdACS1 and MdERF3. Spatial variations in MdNAC5A and MdNAC5T caused changes in MdACS1 expression following their interaction with MdERF3. Ultimately, utilizing different MdNAC5 alleles offers a strategy to manipulate fruit firmness in apple breeding.
Bounded Pluriharmonic Functions and Holomorphic Functions on Teichmüller Space
Authors: Miyachi Hideki
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we discuss the boundary behavior of bounded pluriharmonic functions and bounded holomorphic functions on the Teichmüller space. We will show a version of the Fatou theorem that every bounded pluriharmonic function admits the radial limits along the Teichmüller geodesic rays, and a version of the F. and M. Riesz theorem that the radial limit of a non-constant bounded holomorphic function is not constant on any non-null measurable set on the Bers boundary in terms of the pluriharmonic measure. As a corollary, we obtain the non-ergodicity of the action of the Torelli group for a closed surface of genus $g\ge 2$ on the space of projective measured foliations.
Armed attacks against merchant vessels: ‘Looking behind the Flag’ to find the victim State
Authors: Cavalcanti de Mello Filho Eduardo
Published: October 2024

This article argues that a non-flag State can be considered the victim of an armed attack against one or more merchant vessels and thus entitled to the right of self-defence under Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations. This argument gains momentum in light of the recent Houthi attacks in the Red Sea against ships with diverse nationalities. Traditionally, attacks on merchant vessels have been considered attacks on the flag State due to the latter’s economic interests in the vessels. However, given the prevalence of open ship registries, today over 70 per cent of world tonnage is registered under foreign flags. Consequently, the jus ad bellum concerning armed attacks against merchant vessels necessitates a reassessment. The first section of this article revisits the traditional understanding that only the flag State can be considered the victim of an armed attack on merchant vessels. Hinting at the popularization of open registries, this article then clarifies how the laws of the sea and naval warfare have dealt with this phenomenon. It is remarked that ‘looking behind the flag’, especially in naval warfare, has become inevitable. This realization is then transposed to the jus ad bellum. In doing so, this article examines key references concerning armed attacks against merchant vessel: the Oil Platforms judgment by the International Court of Justice and the 1974 Definition of Aggression. This article also engages with directly relevant State practice. Ultimately, this article demonstrates that these references support the need for the reassessment advanced here.
Potential global distributions of an important aphid pest, Rhopalosiphum padi: insights from ensemble models with multiple variables
Authors: Yang Mingsheng , Yu Jiayi , Wang Yongli , Dewer Youssef , Huo Yiqi , Wang Zhengbing , Zhang Hongfei , Shao Xinliang , Ma Feilong , Shangguan Xinxin , Xu Kedong , Shang Suqin , Ma Keshi
Published: October 2024

Species distribution modeling is extensively used for predicting potential distributions of invasive species. However, an ensemble modeling approach has been less frequently used particularly pest species. The bird cherry-oat aphid Rhopalosiphum padi L. is an important pest of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) worldwide and causes 30% yield losses. Here, we developed a series of ensemble models with multiple variables to predict the habitat suitability of this pest at a global scale. The current suitable habitat for R. padi is mainly distributed in East Asia, South Asia, Europe, southern North America, southern South America, eastern Australia, and New Zealand. The highly suitable regions are primarily distributed in east of China, Japan, most of North America, southeastern South America, most of Europe, and southeastern edge of Australia. In future scenarios, the suitable habitats will undergo a significant contraction overall northward, and no moderately nor highly suitable habitats are predicted for this pest in other areas. Our findings indicate that a high risk of R. padi outbreaks currently exists for the highly suitable regions mentioned above, especially with wheat cultivation, but the capacity of R. padi to cause such outbreaks will weaken in the future. Climate-associated factors are significantly more important than land use, elevation and host-plant factors, and the BIO11 (mean temperature of the coldest quarter), in particular, predominated in shaping projections of R. padi’s distribution. The predicted distribution pattern and key ecological factors affecting this pattern identified herein could provide important guidance for developing management policies targeting this economically important pest.
The Conditional Autoregressive F-Riesz Model for Realized Covariance Matrices
Authors: Opschoor Anne , Lucas André , Rossini Luca
Published: October 2024

We introduce a new model for the dynamics of fat-tailed (realized) covariance-matrix-valued time-series using the F-Riesz distribution. The model allows for heterogeneous tail behavior across the coordinates of the covariance matrix via two vector-valued degrees of freedom parameters, thus generalizing the familiar Wishart and matrix-F distributions. We show that the filter implied by the new model is invertible and that a two-step targeted maximum likelihood estimator is consistent. Applying the new F-Riesz model to U.S. stocks, both tail heterogeneity and tail fatness turn out to be empirically relevant: they produce significant in-sample and out-of-sample likelihood increases, ex-post portfolio standard deviations that are in the global minimum variance model confidence set, and economic differences that are either in favor of the new model or competitive with a range of benchmark models.
Realized Random Graphs, with an Application to the Interbank Network
Authors: Buccheri Giuseppe , Mazzarisi Piero
Published: October 2024

We introduce a new inferential methodology for dynamic network models driven by latent state variables. The main idea is to obtain a noisy representation of the state variables dynamics by computing a sequence of cross-sectional estimates of the network model at each point in time. The dynamic modeling of these cross-sectional estimates, that we name realized random graphs, transforms the original nonlinear state-space network model into a linear time-series model that can be easily estimated. Under the assumption of a mixed-membership blockmodel structure, the model parameters and the unobservable state variables can be consistently estimated when both the size of the network and the time-series length are large. By allowing for an extremely rich parameterization of the model in high dimensions, the proposed methodology describes the heterogeneous topology of real-world networks. We corroborate our findings by using this novel framework to estimate and forecast the dynamic common factors driving the evolution of the Italian electronic market of interbank deposits, and we show that the interbank lending rate is a key factor determining the network topology.