bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New and Renewed Approaches to Understanding Chinese Politics
Authors: Sun Yan
Published: March 2023

A consensus has emerged among America’s policy circles and China specialists that the US policy of engagement to promote the democratization of China has not been successful. Debates abound as to why and what went wrong, as can be seen in the pages of leading foreign policy journals and a plethora of books on a rising China’s challenge to American primacy. Typical is the assessment that western democracies have underestimated “the resilience, resourcefulness, and ruthlessness of the Chinese Communist Party” (Aaron Friedberg, Getting China Wrong, 2022).
Changes in Land Cover and Management Affect Heat Stress and Labor Capacity
Authors: Orlov Anton , De Hertog Steven , Havermann Felix , Guo Suqi , Luo Fei , Manola Iris , Thiery Wim , Lejeune Quentin , Pongratz Julia , Humpenöder Florian , Windisch Michael , Nath Shruti , Popp Alexander , Schleussner Carl‐Friedrich
Published: March 2023

Global warming is expected to exacerbate heat stress. Additionally, biogeophysical effects of land cover and land management changes (LCLMC) could substantially alter temperature and relative humidity locally and non‐locally. Thereby, LCLMC could affect the occupational capacity to safely perform physical work under hot environments (labor capacity). However, these effects have never been quantified globally using a multi‐model setup. Building on results from stylized sensitivity experiments of (a) cropland expansion, (b) irrigation expansion, and (c) afforestation conducted by three fully coupled Earth System Models (ESMs), we assess the local as well as non‐local effects on heat stress and labor capacity. We found that LCLMC leads to substantial changes in temperature; however, the concomitant changes in humidity could largely diminish the combined impact on moist heat. Moreover, cropland expansion and afforestation cause inconsistent responses of day‐ and night‐time temperature, which has strong implications for labor capacity. Across the ESMs, the results are mixed in terms of sign and magnitude. Overall, LCLMC result in non‐negligible impacts on heat stress and labor capacity in low‐latitude regions during the warmest seasons. In some locations, the changes of monthly average labor capacity, which are induced by the local effects of individual LCLMC options, could reach −14 and +15 percentage points. Thus, LCLMC‐induced impacts on heat stress and their consequences for adaptation should be accounted for when designing LCLMC‐related policies to ensure sustainable development.
Partitioning the Uncertainties in Compound Hot and Dry Precipitation, Soil Moisture, and Runoff Extremes Projections in CMIP6
Authors: Jha Srinidhi , Gudmundsson Lukas , Seneviratne Sonia I.
Published: March 2023

A comprehensive assessment of compound hot and dry extremes based on different drought conditions (low precipitation, runoff, or soil moisture) and associated uncertainties is necessary to fully understand the possible risks. Here, we analyze changes in the likelihood of compound hot and dry conditions associated with low precipitation, runoff, and soil moisture using Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase6 (CMIP6) simulations for present‐day climate (+1°C) and additional global warming levels (+1.5°C, +2°C, +3°C). Further, we investigate the contributions of different components (e.g., global warming levels, climate models, copula types) to the total spread in their future projections. Results show the significance of global warming levels in governing risks of rising compound hot and dry extremes. The hotspot regions include the Mediterranean, South Central America, Amazonia, and Sahara. The rising risks are also accompanied by rising uncertainty as the spread in changing likelihood is significantly contributed by Earth System Models (ESMs), global warming levels, their interactions, and the statistical estimation error. The uncertainty due to ESMs spread was observed to be most significant in the case of compound hot and low soil moisture extremes, which also corresponds to some of the most impactful conditions. It was observed that the estimation error dominates the uncertainty in compound hot and low precipitation extremes as compared to the two other combinations. Our findings indicate that the regional likelihood and associated uncertainties of compound hot‐dry events in CMIP6 projections are functions of both the selection of drought types and the methodology of deriving the joint extremes.
Thermochronological Evidence for Eocene Deformation in the Southern Patagonian Andes: Linking Orogenesis Along the Patagonian Orocline
Authors: Stevens Goddard A. L. , Fosdick J. C. , Calderón M. , Ghiglione M. C. , VanderLeest R. A. , Romans B. W.
Published: March 2023

Thermochronologic results from zircon fission track and (U‐Th)/He data collected across the Patagonian batholith, basement and thrust belt of the southern Patagonian Andes between 51°S and 53°S resolves new spatiotemporal patterns of Paleogene rock cooling that allows us to reconstruct deformational and erosional events along‐ and across‐strike. Our study applies a novel modeling strategy, the Path Family Approach, to filter geologically plausible thermal solutions from inverse modeling results for rocks in this study according to a sample's structural and tectonic context. Our results identify minimal cooling and interpreted exhumation of batholith rocks throughout the Paleogene. However, in the western domain we identify synchronous cooling of Jurassic volcaniclastic rocks in the thrust belt both along‐ and across‐strike between 50 and 35 Ma, which we interpret as a period of out‐of‐sequence deformation that coincides with the start of a distinct period of orogenesis in the Fuegian Andes (54°S). This finding may suggest that the southern Patagonian Andes and Fuegian Andes evolved as a connected orogenic system along the bend of the Patagonian orocline. In the central domain, modeled cooling of thermally reset Cretaceous basinal strata from 60 to 50 Ma corresponds to a well‐recognized erosional unconformity in the adjacent Cenozoic foreland depocenter, indicating that contemporaneous exhumation occurred beyond the margins of the basin. Although not diagnostic, exhumation within the orogenic belt, beyond the Cenozoic foreland basin, provides a new regional context to interpret the cause of this regional erosion event. Collectively these results inform the Paleogene tectonic evolution of the orogen.
GPAT3 regulates the synthesis of lipid intermediate LPA and exacerbates Kupffer cell inflammation mediated by the ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Fan Guoqiang , Li Yanfei , Zong Yibo , Suo Xiaoyi , Jia Yimin , Gao Mingming , Yang Xiaojing
Published: March 2023

In the process of inflammatory activation, macrophages exhibit lipid metabolism disorders and accumulate lipid droplets. Kupffer cells (KCs) are the resident hepatic macrophage with critical defense functions in the pathogenesis of several types of liver disease. How dysregulated lipid metabolism contributes to perturbed KCs functions remains elusive. Here we report that glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase 3 (GPAT3) plays a key role in KCs inflammation response. Our findings indicate that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated inflammatory activation markedly increased lipid droplets (LDs) accumulation in KCs. This increase could be attributed to significantly up-regulated GPAT3. The loss of GPAT3 function obviously reduced KCs inflammation reaction both in vivo and in vitro, and was accompanied by improved mitochondrial function and decreased production of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), in turn inhibiting extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) signaling pathway. Overall, this study highlights the role of GPAT3 in inflammatory activation of KCs and could thus be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of inflammation-related liver disease.
Serine and one-carbon metabolism sustain non-melanoma skin cancer progression
Authors: Cappello Angela , Zuccotti Alessandro , Mancini Mara , Tosetti Giulia , Fania Luca , Ricci Francesco , Melino Gerry , Candi Eleonora
Published: March 2023

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is a tumor that arises from human keratinocytes, showing abnormal control of cell proliferation and aberrant stratification. Cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (cBCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) are the most common sub-types of NMSC. From a molecular point of view, we are still far from fully understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the onset and progression of NMSC and to unravel targetable vulnerabilities to leverage for their treatment, which is still essentially based on surgery. Under this assumption, it is still not elucidated how the central cellular metabolism, a potential therapeutical target, is involved in NMSC progression. Therefore, our work is based on the characterization of the serine anabolism/catabolism and/or one-carbon metabolism (OCM) role in NMSC pathogenesis. Expression and protein analysis of normal skin and NMSC samples show the alteration of the expression of two enzymes involved in the serine metabolism and OCM, the Serine Hydroxy-Methyl Transferase 2 (SHMT2) and Methylen-ThetraHydroFolate dehydrogenase/cyclohydrolase 2 (MTHFD2). Tissues analysis shows that these two enzymes are mainly expressed in the proliferative areas of cBCC and in the poorly differentiated areas of cSCC, suggesting their role in tumor proliferation maintenance. Moreover, in vitro silencing of SHMT2 and MTHFD2 impairs the proliferation of epidermoid cancer cell line. Taken together these data allow us to link the central cellular metabolism (serine and/or OCM) and NMSC proliferation and progression, offering the opportunity to modulate pharmacologically the involved enzymes activity against this type of human cancer.
A pediatric case of congenital stromal corneal dystrophy caused by the novel variant c.953del of the DCN gene
Authors: Morikawa Hazuki , Nishina Sachiko , Torii Kaoruko , Hosono Katsuhiro , Yokoi Tadashi , Shigeyasu Chika , Yamada Masakazu , Kosuga Motomichi , Fukami Maki , Saitsu Hirotomo , Azuma Noriyuki , Hori Yuichi , Hotta Yoshihiro
Published: March 2023

We report a 1-year-old girl with congenital stromal corneal dystrophy confirmed by genetic analysis. The ocular phenotype included diffuse opacity over the corneal stroma bilaterally. We performed a genetic analysis to provide counseling to the parents regarding the recurrence rate. Whole exome sequencing was performed on her and her parents, and a novel de novo variant, NM_001920.5: c.953del, p.(Asn318Thrfs*10), in the DCN gene was identified in the patient.
Surprising combinations of research contents and contexts are related to impact and emerge with scientific outsiders from distant disciplines
Authors: Shi Feng , Evans James
Published: March 2023

We investigate the degree to which impact in science and technology is associated with surprising breakthroughs, and how those breakthroughs arise. Identifying breakthroughs across science and technology requires models that distinguish surprising from expected advances at scale. Drawing on tens of millions of research papers and patents across the life sciences, physical sciences and patented inventions, and using a hypergraph model that predicts realized combinations of research contents (article keywords) and contexts (cited journals), here we show that surprise in terms of unexpected combinations of contents and contexts predicts outsized impact (within the top 10% of citations). These surprising advances emerge across, rather than within researchers or teams—most commonly when scientists from one field publish problem-solving results to an audience from a distant field. Our approach characterizes the frontier of science and technology as a complex hypergraph drawn from high-dimensional embeddings of research contents and contexts, and offers a measure of path-breaking surprise in science and technology.
Alkalinity responses to climate warming destabilise the Earth’s thermostat
Authors: Lehmann Nele , Stacke Tobias , Lehmann Sebastian , Lantuit Hugues , Gosse John , Mears Chantal , Hartmann Jens , Thomas Helmuth
Published: March 2023

Alkalinity generation from rock weathering modulates Earth’s climate at geological time scales. Although lithology is thought to dominantly control alkalinity generation globally, the role of other first-order controls appears elusive. Particularly challenging remains the discrimination of climatic and erosional influences. Based on global observations, here we uncover the role of erosion rate in governing riverine alkalinity, accompanied by areal proportion of carbonate, mean annual temperature, catchment area, and soil regolith thickness. We show that the weathering flux to the ocean will be significantly altered by climate warming as early as 2100, by up to 68% depending on the environmental conditions, constituting a sudden feedback of ocean CO2 sequestration to climate. Interestingly, warming under a low-emissions scenario will reduce terrestrial alkalinity flux from mid-latitudes (–1.6 t(bicarbonate) a−1 km−2) until the end of the century, resulting in a reduction in CO2 sequestration, but an increase (+0.5 t(bicarbonate) a−1 km−2) from mid-latitudes is likely under a high-emissions scenario, yielding an additional CO2 sink.
Direct observation of a superconducting vortex diode
Authors: Gutfreund Alon , Matsuki Hisakazu , Plastovets Vadim , Noah Avia , Gorzawski Laura , Fridman Nofar , Yang Guang , Buzdin Alexander , Millo Oded , Robinson Jason W. A. , Anahory Yonathan
Published: March 2023

The interplay between magnetism and superconductivity can lead to unconventional proximity and Josephson effects. A related phenomenon that has recently attracted considerable attention is the superconducting diode effect, in which a nonreciprocal critical current emerges. Although superconducting diodes based on superconductor/ferromagnet (S/F) bilayers were demonstrated more than a decade ago, the precise underlying mechanism remains unclear. While not formally linked to this effect, the Fulde–Ferrell–Larkin–Ovchinikov (FFLO) state is a plausible mechanism due to the twofold rotational symmetry breaking caused by the finite center-of-mass-momentum of the Cooper pairs. Here, we directly observe asymmetric vortex dynamics that uncover the mechanism behind the superconducting vortex diode effect in Nb/EuS (S/F) bilayers. Based on our nanoscale SQUID-on-tip (SOT) microscope and supported by in-situ transport measurements, we propose a theoretical model that captures our key results. The key conclusion of our model is that screening currents induced by the stray fields from the F layer are responsible for the measured nonreciprocal critical current. Thus, we determine the origin of the vortex diode effect, which builds a foundation for new device concepts.
Atomic-scale study clarifying the role of space-charge layers in a Li-ion-conducting solid electrolyte
Authors: Gu Zhenqi , Ma Jiale , Zhu Feng , Liu Ting , Wang Kai , Nan Ce-Wen , Li Zhenyu , Ma Cheng
Published: March 2023

Space-charge layers are frequently believed responsible for the large resistance of different interfaces in all-solid-state Li batteries. However, such propositions are based on the presumed existence of a Li-deficient space-charge layer with insufficient charge carriers, instead of a comprehensive investigation on the atomic configuration and its ion transport behavior. Consequently, the real influence of space-charge layers remains elusive. Here, we clarify the role of space-charge layers in Li0.33La0.56TiO3, a prototype solid electrolyte with large grain-boundary resistance, through a combined experimental and computational study at the atomic scale. In contrast to previous speculations, we do not observe the Li-deficient space-charge layers commonly believed to result in large resistance. Instead, the actual space-charge layers are Li-excess; accommodating the additional Li+ at the 3c interstitials, such space-charge layers allow for rather efficient ion transport. With the space-charge layers excluded from the potential bottlenecks, we identify the Li-depleted grain-boundary cores as the major cause for the large grain-boundary resistance in Li0.33La0.56TiO3.
Complete bio-degradation of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) via engineered cutinases
Authors: Yang Yu , Min Jian , Xue Ting , Jiang Pengcheng , Liu Xin , Peng Rouming , Huang Jian-Wen , Qu Yingying , Li Xian , Ma Ning , Tsai Fang-Chang , Dai Longhai , Zhang Qi , Liu Yingle , Chen Chun-Chi , Guo Rey-Ting
Published: March 2023

Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), a polyester made of terephthalic acid (TPA), 1,4-butanediol, and adipic acid, is extensively utilized in plastic production and has accumulated globally as environmental waste. Biodegradation is an attractive strategy to manage PBAT, but an effective PBAT-degrading enzyme is required. Here, we demonstrate that cutinases are highly potent enzymes that can completely decompose PBAT films in 48 h. We further show that the engineered cutinases, by applying a double mutation strategy to render a more flexible substrate-binding pocket exhibit higher decomposition rates. Notably, these variants produce TPA as a major end-product, which is beneficial feature for the future recycling economy. The crystal structures of wild type and double mutation of a cutinase from Thermobifida fusca in complex with a substrate analogue are also solved, elucidating their substrate-binding modes. These structural and biochemical analyses enable us to propose the mechanism of cutinase-mediated PBAT degradation.
Transmembrane signaling by a synthetic receptor in artificial cells
Authors: Søgaard Ane Bretschneider , Pedersen Andreas Bøtker , Løvschall Kaja Borup , Monge Pere , Jakobsen Josefine Hammer , Džabbarova Leila , Nielsen Line Friis , Stevanovic Sandra , Walther Raoul , Zelikin Alexander N.
Published: March 2023

Signal transduction across biological membranes is among the most important evolutionary achievements. Herein, for the design of artificial cells, we engineer fully synthetic receptors with the capacity of transmembrane signaling, using tools of chemistry. Our receptors exhibit similarity with their natural counterparts in having an exofacial ligand for signal capture, being membrane anchored, and featuring a releasable messenger molecule that performs enzyme activation as a downstream signaling event. The main difference from natural receptors is the mechanism of signal transduction, which is achieved using a self-immolative linker. The receptor scaffold is modular and can readily be re-designed to respond to diverse activation signals including biological or chemical stimuli. We demonstrate an artificial signaling cascade that achieves transmembrane enzyme activation, a hallmark of natural signaling receptors. Results of this work are relevant for engineering responsive artificial cells and interfacing them and/or biological counterparts in co-cultures.
Continuous-mode quantum key distribution with digital signal processing
Authors: Chen Ziyang , Wang Xiangyu , Yu Song , Li Zhengyu , Guo Hong
Published: March 2023

Continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) offers the specific advantage of sharing keys remotely by the use of standard telecom components, thereby promoting cost-effective and high-performance metropolitan applications. Nevertheless, the introduction of high-rate spectrum broadening has pushed CVQKD from a single-mode to a continuous-mode region, resulting in the adoption of modern digital signal processing (DSP) technologies to recover quadrature information from continuous-mode quantum states. However, the security proof of DSP involving multi-point processing is a missing step. Here, we propose a generalized method of analyzing continuous-mode state processing by linear DSP via temporal modes theory. The construction of temporal modes is key in reducing the security proof to single-mode scenarios. The proposed practicality oriented security analysis method paves the way for building classical compatible digital CVQKD.
Plasma bioactive adrenomedullin predicts outcome after acute stroke in early rehabilitation
Authors: Shafieesabet Azadeh , Jauert Nadja , Hartmann Oliver , Arlt Birte , Joebges Michael , Doehner Wolfram
Published: March 2023

An early and reliable prediction of outcomes after stroke is important for early effective stroke management and the adequate optimal planning of post-stroke rehabilitation and long-term care. Bioactive adrenomedullin (bio-ADM) is a 52-amino acid peptide that is an important peptide hormone in nervous system diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of bio-ADM on outcomes after rehabilitation in patients with stroke. A total of 557 consecutive patients with a primary diagnosis of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke (age 69.6–12.9 years, male 51.3%, ischemic stroke 72.5%), who were admitted to an in-patient early rehabilitation center directly after discharge from acute stroke hospital care, were enrolled in this prospective observational study. Plasma concentrations of bio-ADM were determined by using a chemiluminescence immunoassay (functional assay sensitivity 8 pg/ml). The early rehabilitation barthel index (ERBI) was used for the neurological assessment of the patients. The plasma bio-ADM level was analyzed in association with 6-month all-cause mortality as well as a composite outcome of all-cause mortality, unscheduled re-hospitalization, or transfer to a long-term care facility in a vegetative or minimally conscious state. Bio-ADM levels significantly increased in patients with ischemic stroke who died compared to surviving patients (40.4 pg/ml vs. 23.8 pg/ml, p < 0.001) or in those with composite outcomes compared to those with no events (36.9 pg/ml vs. 23.5 pg/ml, p < 0.001). Six-month all-cause mortality was higher in all patients with bio-ADM levels > 70 pg/ml (HR 4.83 [CI 2.28–10.2]). Patients with bio-ADM levels > 70 pg/ml also had higher rates of 6-month composite outcomes (HR 3.82 [CI 2.08–7.01]). Bio-ADM was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality and 6-month composite outcomes after adjusting for age, gender, and ERBI (adjusted OR 1.5; 95% CI 1.0–2.1; p = 0.047 and adjusted OR 1.48; 95% CI 1.1–2.0; p = 0.01, respectively). Bio-ADM may be a suitable novel biomarker to assess the outcomes of patients in rehabilitation after acute stroke. Elevated bio-ADM concentrations may have prognostic value for fatal and nonfatal events in patients with ischemic stroke during early rehabilitation.
Exploring alternative insecticide delivery options in a “lethal house lure” for malaria vector control
Authors: Oumbouke Welbeck A. , Barreaux Antoine M. G. , Zran Innocent T. , Koffi Alphonsine A. , N’Guessan Yao , Alou Ludovic P. Ahoua , Wolie Rosine Z. , Cook Jackie , Sternberg Eleanore D. , Thomas Matthew B. , N’Guessan Raphael
Published: March 2023

The In2Care EaveTube is a house modification designed to block and kill malaria mosquitoes using an electrostatic netting treated with insecticide powder. A previous study demonstrated prolonged duration of effective action of insecticide-treated electrostatic netting in a semi-field setting. As part of a cluster randomized controlled trial (CRT) of the EaveTube intervention in Côte d’Ivoire, we investigated the residual efficacy of a pyrethroid insecticide deployed in EaveTubes under village conditions of use. We also explored the scope of using existing malaria control technologies including LLINs and IRS as alternative methods to deliver insecticides in the lethal house lure. The efficacy of beta-cyfluthrin was monitored over time using the “eave tube bioassay” method. Mortality of beta-cyfluthrin exposed pyrethroid resistant Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes was > 80% after 4 months. The impact (mosquito mortality) of PVC tubes coated with pirimiphos methyl was similar to that of beta-cyfluthrin treated insert (66.8 vs. 62.8%) in release-recapture experiments in experimental huts. Efficacy was significantly lower with all the LLINs tested; however, the roof of PermaNet 3.0 induced significantly higher mosquito mortality (50.4%) compared to Olyset Plus (25.9%) and Interceptor G2 (21.6%) LLINs. The efficacy of the alternative delivery methods was short-lived with mortality decreasing below 50% within 2 months in residual activity bioassays. None of the products tested appeared superior to the powder treatments. Further research is therefore required to identify suitable insecticide delivery options in EaveTube for malaria vector control.
Nasal microbiota profiles in shelter dogs with dermatological conditions carrying methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus species
Authors: Horsman Sara , Meler Erika , Mikkelsen Deirdre , Mallyon John , Yao Hong , Magalhães Ricardo J. Soares , Gibson Justine S.
Published: March 2023

Dermatological conditions may be complicated byStaphylococcusspp. infections influencing skin and nasal microbiota. We investigated the associations between the resident nasal microbiota of shelter dogs with and without dermatological conditions carrying methicillin-resistant and -sensitive Staphylococcus spp. Nasal sampling of 16 dogs with and 52 without dermatological conditions were performed upon shelter admission (baseline), and then bi-weekly until discharge (follow-up). All samples were cultured forStaphylococcus spp., while 52 samples underwent microbiota analysis.Two elastic net logistic regression (ENR) models (Model 1—baseline samples; Model 2—follow-up samples) were developed to identify predictive associations between dermatological conditions and the variables: signalment, antimicrobial treatment, and nasal microbial genera. Follow-up nasal samples of dogs with dermatological conditions had decreased microbiota diversity and abundance compared to dogs without dermatological conditions. Our ENR models identified predictive differences in signalment and nasal microbial genera between baseline and follow-up samples. Co-occurrence networks showed nasal microbial genera were more dissimilar when comparing dogs with and without dermatological conditions at follow-up. Overall, this study is the first to investigateStaphylococcusspp. carriage effects on nasal microbial genera in a canine animal shelter population, and ultimately reveals the importance of investigating decolonisation and probiotic therapies for restoring nasal microbiota.
Phase separation of α-crystallin-GFP protein and its implication in cataract disease
Authors: Shi Jie , Zhu Ya-Xi , Huang Rui-Yan , Bai Shao-Mei , Zheng Yu-Xing , Zheng Jian , Xia Zhao-Xia , Wang Yun-Long
Published: March 2023

Cataract, the leading cause of blindness worldwide, is caused by crystallin protein aggregation within the protected lens environment. Phase separation has been implicated as an important mechanism of protein aggregation diseases, such as neurodegeneration. Similarly, cataract has been proposed to be a protein condensation disease in the last century. However, whether crystallin proteins aggregate via a phase separation mechanism and which crystallin protein initiates the aggregation remain unclear. Here, we showed that all types of crystallin-GFP proteins remain soluble under physiological conditions, including protein concentrations, ion strength, and crowding environments. However, in age or disease-induced aberrant conditions, α-crystallin-GFP, including αA- and αB-crystallin-GFP, but not other crystallin-GFP proteins, undergo phase separation in vivo and in vitro. We found that aging-related changes, including higher crystallin concentrations, increased Na+, and decreased K+ concentrations, induced the aggregation of α-crystallin-GFP. Furthermore, H2O2, glucose, and sorbitol, the well-known risk factors for cataract, significantly enhanced the aggregation of αB-crystallin-GFP. Taken together, our results revealed that α-crystallin-GFP forms aggregates via a phase transition process, which may play roles in cataract disease. Opposite to the previously reported function of enhancing the solubility of other crystallin, α-crystallin may be the major aggregated crystallin in the lens of cataract patients.
Predicting prostate cancer in men with PSA levels of 4–10 ng/mL: MRI-based radiomics can help junior radiologists improve the diagnostic performance
Authors: Zhong Jian-Guo , Shi Lin , Liu Jing , Cao Fang , Ma Yan-Qing , Zhang Yang
Published: March 2023

To develop MRI-based radiomics model for predicting prostate cancer (PCa) in men with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels of 4–10 ng/mL, to compare the performance of radiomics model and PI-RADS v2.1, and to further verify the predictive ability of radiomics model for lesions with different PI-RADS v2.1 score. 171 patients with PSA levels of 4–10 ng/mL were divided into training (n = 119) and testing (n = 52) groups. PI-RADS v2.1 score was assessed by two radiologists. All volumes of interest were segmented on T2-weighted imaging, diffusion weighted imaging, and apparent diffusion coefficient sequences, from which quantitative radiomics features were extracted. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to establish radiomics model for predicting PCa. The diagnostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The radiomics model exhibited the best performance in predicting PCa, which was better than the performance of PI-RADS v2.1 scoring by the junior radiologist in the training group [area under the curve (AUC): 0.932 vs 0.803], testing group (AUC: 0.922 vs 0.797), and the entire cohort (AUC: 0.927 vs 0.801) (P < 0.05). The radiomics model performed well for lesions with PI-RADS v2.1 score of 3 (AUC = 0.854, sensitivity = 84.62%, specificity = 84.34%) and PI-RADS v2.1 score of 4–5 (AUC = 0.967, sensitivity = 98.11%, specificity = 86.36%) assigned by junior radiologist. The radiomics model quantitatively outperformed PI-RADS v2.1 for noninvasive prediction of PCa in men with PSA levels of 4–10 ng/mL. The model can help improve the diagnostic performance of junior radiologists and facilitate better decision-making by urologists for management of lesions with different PI-RADS v2.1 score.
Machine learning for post-acute pancreatitis diabetes mellitus prediction and personalized treatment recommendations
Authors: Zhang Jun , Lv Yingqi , Hou Jiaying , Zhang Chi , Yua Xuelu , Wang Yifan , Yang Ting , Su Xianghui , Ye Zheng , Li Ling
Published: March 2023

Post-acute pancreatitis diabetes mellitus (PPDM-A) is the main component of pancreatic exocrine diabetes mellitus. Timely diagnosis of PPDM-A improves patient outcomes and the mitigation of burdens and costs. We aimed to determine risk factors prospectively and predictors of PPDM-A in China, focusing on giving personalized treatment recommendations. Here, we identify and evaluate the best set of predictors of PPDM-A prospectively using retrospective data from 820 patients with acute pancreatitis at four centers by machine learning approaches. We used the L1 regularized logistic regression model to diagnose early PPDM-A via nine clinical variables identified as the best predictors. The model performed well, obtaining the best AUC = 0.819 and F1 = 0.357 in the test set. We interpreted and personalized the model through nomograms and Shapley values. Our model can accurately predict the occurrence of PPDM-A based on just nine clinical pieces of information and allows for early intervention in potential PPDM-A patients through personalized analysis. Future retrospective and prospective studies with multicentre, large sample populations are needed to assess the actual clinical value of the model.
Critical temperature shift modeling of confined fluids using pore-size-dependent energy parameter of potential function
Authors: Humand Mohammad , Khorsand Movaghar Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2023

The behavior and critical properties of fluids confined in nanoscale porous media differ from those of bulk fluids. This is well known as critical shift phenomenon or pore proximity effect among researchers. Fundamentals of critical shift modeling commenced with developing equations of state (EOS) based on the Lennard–Jones (L–J) potential function. Although these methods have provided somewhat passable predictions of pore critical properties, none represented a breakthrough in basic modeling. In this study, a cubic EOS is derived in the presence of adsorption for Kihara fluids, whose attractive term is a function of temperature. Accordingly, the critical temperature shift is modeled, and a new adjustment method is established in which, despite previous works, the bulk critical conditions of fluids are reliably met with a thermodynamic basis and not based on simplistic manipulations. Then, based on the fact that the macroscopic and microscopic theories of corresponding states are related, an innovative idea is developed in which the energy parameter of the potential function varies with regard to changes in pore size, and is not taken as a constant. Based on 94 available data points of critical shift reports, it is observed that despite L–J, the Kihara potential has sufficient flexibility to properly fit the variable energy parameters, and provide valid predictions of phase behavior and critical properties of fluids. Finally, the application of the proposed model is examined by predicting the vapor–liquid equilibrium properties of a ternary system that reduced the error of the L–J model by more than 6%.
Diffuse and concentrated nitrogen sewage pollution in island environments with differing treatment systems
Authors: Alldred F. C. , Gröcke D. R. , Leung C. Y. , Wright L. P. , Banfield N.
Published: March 2023

Macroalgae is an under-utilised tool as a bioindicator of anthropogenic nitrogen loading to the coastal environment in the UK. This study compared two island systems—Jersey (Channel Islands) and St Mary’s (Isles of Scilly) to assess how differing sewerage infrastructure affects nitrogen loading. A total of 831 macroalgae samples of Fucus vesiculosus and Ulva sp. were analysed for nitrogen isotopes (δ15N). Elevated δ15N values were recorded for Jersey (> 9‰) in St Aubin’s Bay—caused by the outflow of the Bellozanne Sewerage Treatment Works (STW). δ15N isoplots maps indicate low diffusion of nitrogen out of St Aubin’s Bay. St Mary’s produced a varied δ15N isoplot map in comparison. δ15N was typically lower and is attributed to a smaller population and inefficient STW. Outflow of sewage/effluent at Morning Point, Hugh Town and Old Town produced elevated δ15N values in comparison to the island average. St Mary’s inefficient sewerage treatment and reliance on septic tanks/soakaways complicates δ15N interpretation although it still indicates that nitrogen pollution is an island-wide issue. Future sewerage development and upgrades on islands are required to prevent similar effluent environmental issues as recorded in St Aubin’s Bay. This study advocates the use of macroalgae as a bioindicator of nitrogen effluent in the marine environment.
40 years of actigraphy in sleep medicine and current state of the art algorithms
Authors: Patterson Matthew R. , Nunes Adonay A. S. , Gerstel Dawid , Pilkar Rakesh , Guthrie Tyler , Neishabouri Ali , Guo Christine C.
Published: March 2023

For the last 40 years, actigraphy or wearable accelerometry has provided an objective, low-burden and ecologically valid approach to assess real-world sleep and circadian patterns, contributing valuable data to epidemiological and clinical insights on sleep and sleep disorders. The proper use of wearable technology in sleep research requires validated algorithms that can derive sleep outcomes from the sensor data. Since the publication of the first automated scoring algorithm by Webster in 1982, a variety of sleep algorithms have been developed and contributed to sleep research, including many recent ones that leverage machine learning and / or deep learning approaches. However, it remains unclear how these algorithms compare to each other on the same data set and if these modern data science approaches improve the analytical validity of sleep outcomes based on wrist-worn acceleration data. This work provides a systematic evaluation across 8 state-of-the-art sleep algorithms on a common sleep data set with polysomnography (PSG) as ground truth. Despite the inclusion of recently published complex algorithms, simple regression-based and heuristic algorithms demonstrated slightly superior performance in sleep-wake classification and sleep outcome estimation. The performance of complex machine learning and deep learning models seem to suffer from poor generalization. This independent and systematic analytical validation of sleep algorithms provides key evidence on the use of wearable digital health technologies for sleep research and care.
Mechanical Energy Absorption of Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Sun Yueting , Jiang Hebin
Published: March 2023

The absorption of mechanical energy is becoming a promising application of MOF materials, which is important to the protection from damages and injuries associated with mechanical impact, vibration, or explosion. MOFs can absorb energy through solid–liquid interaction in nanopores or framework deformation under mechanical pressure. Energy absorption through these mechanisms can be amplified by the high surface area and porosity of MOFs and achieve a higher energy density than conventional energy absorption materials. For example, the pressurised intrusion of a non-wetting liquid into MOF nanopores can absorb impact energy by generating a large solid–liquid interface, and the structural transition or plastic deformation of MOFs can also be exploited for energy absorption under extreme conditions. This chapter provides an overview of these energy absorption mechanisms and the performance of different materials, connecting the fundamental science of MOF mechanics to practical engineering solutions.
First-principles investigation of interface phenomena in hafnium-based metal–insulator–metal diodes
Authors: Pavoni Eleonora , Mohebbi Elaheh , Stipa Pierluigi , Pierantoni Luca , Mencarelli Davide , Dragoman Mircea , Aldrigo Martino , Laudadio Emiliano
Published: March 2023

Metal–insulator–metal (MIM) diodes are very interesting in many different applications exploiting environment-friendly renewable energy solutions.
Fe3O4@nano-almond shell@OSi(CH2)3/DABCO: a novel magnetic nanocatalyst for the synthesis of chromenes
Authors: Keihanfar Mina , Fatemeh Mirjalili Bi Bi , Bamoniri Abdolhamid
Published: March 2023

In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of Fe3O4@nano-almond shell@OSi(CH2)3/DABCO as a novel magnetic natural-based basic nanocatalyst.
Continuous synthesis of 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinol over CuCrSr/Al2O3: effect of Sr promoter
Authors: Zhang‡ Zijing , Chen‡ Xi , Wang Bowei , Wang Long , Li Yang , Yan Xilong , Chen Ligong
Published: March 2023

Sr-modified CuCr/Al2O3 catalysts effectively promote the continuous process of catalytic hydrogenation from TAA to TMP.
Mimicking natural electrical environment with cellulose acetate scaffolds enhances collagen formation of osteoblasts
Authors: Szewczyk Piotr K. , Berniak Krzysztof , Knapczyk-Korczak Joanna , Karbowniczek Joanna E. , Marzec Mateusz M. , Bernasik Andrzej , Stachewicz Urszula
Published: March 2023

The medical field is continuously seeking new solutions and materials, where cellulose materials due to their high biocompatibility have great potential.
MoS2 nanoflower-decorated lignin nanoparticles for superior lubricant properties
Authors: Lindenbeck Lucie , Beele Björn B. , Morsali Mohammad , Budnyk Serhiy , Frauscher Marcella , Chen Jianhong , Sipponen Mika H. , Slabon Adam , Rodrigues Bruno V. M.
Published: March 2023

Herein we report a hybrid organic–inorganic nanomaterial that combines the structural stability of colloidal lignin nanoparticles with the lubricant performance of MoS2 nanoparticles.
Synergy of oxygen defects and structural modulation on titanium niobium oxide with a constructed conductive network for high-rate lithium-ion half/full batteries
Authors: Sui Yangyang , Guan Jinpeng , Li Kaiyang , Feng Yubo , Peng Shengjie , Maximov Maxim Yu. , Liu Quan , Yang Jun , Geng Hongbo
Published: March 2023

Titanium niobium oxide as an electrode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has relatively high working potential and theoretical capacity, which is expected to replace a graphite anode.
The β-PdBi2monolayer for efficient electrocatalytic NO reduction to NH3: a computational study
Authors: Sun Yuting , Wang Zhongxu , Liu Yuejie , Cai Qinghai , Zhao Jingxiang
Published: March 2023

β-PdBi2was proposed as a novel NORR catalyst for NH3synthesis with high efficiency and high selectivity, and its catalytic activity can be enhanced by a tensile strain.
Efficient fluorescence of alkali metal carbazolides
Authors: Kaiser Michelle , Müller Maximilian P. , Krätschmer Frederic , Rutschmann Mark , Hinz Alexander
Published: March 2023

The bulky 1,8-bis(3,5-ditertbutylphenyl)-3,6-di-tert-butylcarbazole is deprotonated with metal bases to obtain a complete series of thermally robust and luminescent alkali metal compounds of the type [(dtbpCbz)M] (M = Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs).
Hexafluoroisopropanol-based deep eutectic solvents for high-performance DNA extraction
Authors: Xu Jia , Yang Yuan , Cai Xiaonan , Xiao Han
Published: March 2023

In a novel approach, hexafluoroisopropanol-based deep eutectic solvents were synthesized and utilized as an efficient alternative for extracting DNA from human whole blood.
Electrochemical biosensor based on cellulose nanofibers/graphene oxide and acetylcholinesterase for the detection of chlorpyrifos pesticide in water and fruit juice
Authors: Thet Tun Wonn Shweyi , Saenchoopa Apichart , Daduang Sakda , Daduang Jureerat , Kulchat Sirinan , Patramanon Rina
Published: March 2023

Cellulose nanofibers and graphene oxide are used to fabricate an electrochemical biosensor based on acetylcholinesterase for detecting organophosphates. This biosensor is simple and reliable, and it utilizes chlorpyrifos as a representative sample of highly dangerous OPs.
Exploiting poly(safranine) and poly(luminol) for sensing applications. A mini review
Authors: Al-Sodies Salsabeel , Asiri Abdullah M. , Alamry Khalid A. , Hussein Mahmoud A.
Published: March 2023

Safranine and luminol having a unique polymeric constructor combined with different nanomaterials were explored as sensors for different analytes through electrochemical and chemical techniques.
MXene-based composites against antibiotic-resistant bacteria: current trends and future perspectives
Authors: Iravani Siavash , Varma Rajender S.
Published: March 2023

This review endeavors to delineate critical issues pertaining to the application of MXene-based composites against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Transcriptome-wide identification of single-stranded RNA binding proteins
Authors: Zhao Ruiqi , Fang Xin , Mai Zhibiao , Chen Xi , Mo Jing , Lin Yingying , Xiao Rui , Bao Xichen , Weng Xiaocheng , Zhou Xiang
Published: March 2023

We developed KASRIC for transcriptome-wide identification of single-stranded RNA binding proteins (ssRBPs) using single-stranded RNAs (ssRNAs) specific probe N3-kethoxal and mass spectrometry.
A capacitor mismatch calibration scheme for SAR ADC based on genetic algorithm
Authors: Huang Yujia , Meng Qiao , Li Fei , Song Xinyan , Wu Jie
Published: March 2023

Capacitor mismatch problem due to process variation causes weight error, which deteriorates the linearity of SAR ADC. In this paper, a novel calibration scheme based on genetic algorithm(GA) combined with a radix‐less‐than‐2 SAR ADC is proposed to extract the weight error caused by capacitor mismatch. This is a foreground calibration scheme and no extra injections are added. The proposed GA‐based calibration scheme is simulated based on 40 nm CMOS technology. After calibration, ENOB increases from 10.19 bits to 11.46 bits, INL changes from +2.22/−2.12 LSB to +0.81/−0.80 LSB, and DNL changes from +1.79/−1.00 LSB to +0.99/−1.00LSB. As can be seen from the simulation results, the proposed calibration scheme can effectively improve the linearity deterioration caused by capacitor mismatch.
Broadband impedance spectrum detection of buffer layer defects in 110 kV crosslinked polyethylene cable with corrugated aluminium sheath
Authors: Hao Yanpeng , Zhao Peng , Hui Baojun , Cheng Yanting , Zhu Wenbo , Fu Mingli , Li Xiaodong
Published: March 2023

The buffer layer defects of high‐voltage crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) cable occur frequently, which makes the detection method become the focus to be studied. Here, the broadband impedance detection technology for the buffer layer defects of high‐voltage XLPE cables with corrugated aluminium sheath is investigated. There are nine cable samples, including new and defective ones. Some of the defective cables are artificial, and the other is retired cables. The influence of wiring mode, the circumferential relative position of electrodes, cable length, artificial white powder, artificial damp, and retired defective cables on the impedance spectrum is studied. It is found that the wiring mode of the insulation shield/aluminium sheath at the end of the cable can effectively detect the buffer layer defects. And the broadband impedance amplitude spectrum of the buffer layer in defective cable, measuring at various circumferential relative positions, is obviously different. When there are white powders, air gaps, or ablation in the buffer layer, the broadband impedance spectrum (BIS) will increase by several times. When the buffer layer is damped, the BIS will reduce. The research here provides theoretical support and technical methods for the buffer layer defects of XLPE cable with corrugated aluminium sheath.
Integral‐type half‐tangent phase‐locked loop for more electric aircraft grids
Authors: Zhao Yiyun , Li Guangqi , Dai Zhiyong , Li Bingqiang , Lin Hui , Yang Jianwei
Published: March 2023

In this paper, an integral‐type half‐tangent phase‐locked loop (IHTan‐PLL) is proposed for the varying‐frequency AC grids of more electric aircraft (MEA). First, the performance of the synchronous reference frame phase‐locked loop (SRF‐PLL) and half‐tangent phase‐locked loop (HTan‐PLL) is discussed from a large‐signal viewpoint. When the frequency changes largely, the SRF‐PLL has many oscillations and endures a rather long transient process. The HTan‐PLL can address the large frequency jumps. However, for the varying‐frequency AC grids with harmonic disturbances, the HTan‐PLL still has oscillations in estimating the frequency when the frequency jumps largely. To enhance the performance of the SRF‐PLL and HTan‐PLL, the IHTan‐PLL is developed for the varying‐frequency AC grids with harmonic disturbances. The IHTan‐PLL performs better than the SRF‐PLL and HTan‐PLL in addressing the large frequency jumps. Specifically, under any large frequency changes, the IHTan‐PLL still converges to the equilibrium point (0,0), and no oscillations emerge. In addition, the IHTan‐PLL has better steady‐state accuracy in estimating the frequency than the SRF‐PLL and HTan‐PLL. The experimental results also demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed IHTan‐PLL.