bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra-stretchable and biodegradable elastomers for soft, transient electronics
Authors: Han Won Bae , Ko Gwan-Jin , Lee Kang-Gon , Kim Donghak , Lee Joong Hoon , Yang Seung Min , Kim Dong-Je , Shin Jeong-Woong , Jang Tae-Min , Han Sungkeun , Zhou Honglei , Kang Heeseok , Lim Jun Hyeon , Rajaram Kaveti , Cheng Huanyu , Park Yong-Doo , Kim Soo Hyun , Hwang Suk-Won
Published: April 2023

As rubber-like elastomers have led to scientific breakthroughs in soft, stretchable characteristics-based wearable, implantable electronic devices or relevant research fields, developments of degradable elastomers with comparable mechanical properties could bring similar technological innovations in transient, bioresorbable electronics or expansion into unexplored areas. Here, we introduce ultra-stretchable, biodegradable elastomers capable of stretching up to ~1600% with outstanding properties in toughness, tear-tolerance, and storage stability, all of which are validated by comprehensive mechanical and biochemical studies. The facile formation of thin films enables the integration of almost any type of electronic device with tunable, suitable adhesive strengths. Conductive elastomers tolerant/sensitive to mechanical deformations highlight possibilities for versatile monitoring/sensing components, particularly the strain-tolerant composites retain high levels of conductivities even under tensile strains of ~550%. Demonstrations of soft electronic grippers and transient, suture-free cardiac jackets could be the cornerstone for sophisticated, multifunctional biodegradable electronics in the fields of soft robots and biomedical implants.
Magnetoelectric coupling in multiferroics probed by optical second harmonic generation
Authors: Xu Shuai , Wang Jiesu , Chen Pan , Jin Kuijuan , Ma Cheng , Wu Shiyao , Guo Erjia , Ge Chen , Wang Can , Xu Xiulai , Yao Hongbao , Wang Jingyi , Xie Donggang , Wang Xinyan , Chang Kai , Bai Xuedong , Yang Guozhen
Published: April 2023

Magnetoelectric coupling, as a fundamental physical nature and with the potential to add functionality to devices while also reducing energy consumption, has been challenging to be probed in freestanding membranes or two-dimensional materials due to their instability and fragility. In this paper, we report a magnetoelectric coupling probed by optical second harmonic generation with external magnetic field, and show the manipulation of the ferroelectric and antiferromagnetic orders by the magnetic and thermal fields in BiFeO3 films epitaxially grown on the substrates and in the freestanding ones. Here we define an optical magnetoelectric-coupling constant, denoting the ability of controlling light-induced nonlinear polarization by the magnetic field, and found the magnetoelectric-coupling was suppressed by strain releasing but remain robust against thermal fluctuation for freestanding BiFeO3.
Single-cell adaptations shape evolutionary transitions to multicellularity in green algae
Authors: Cornwallis Charlie K. , Svensson-Coelho Maria , Lindh Markus , Li Qinyang , Stábile Franca , Hansson Lars-Anders , Rengefors Karin
Published: April 2023

The evolution of multicellular life has played a pivotal role in shaping biological diversity. However, we know surprisingly little about the natural environmental conditions that favour the formation of multicellular groups. Here we experimentally examine how key environmental factors (predation, nitrogen and water turbulence) combine to influence multicellular group formation in 35 wild unicellular green algae strains (19 Chlorophyta species). All environmental factors induced the formation of multicellular groups (more than four cells), but there was no evidence this was adaptive, as multicellularity (% cells in groups) was not related to population growth rate under any condition. Instead, population growth was related to extracellular matrix (ECM) around single cells and palmelloid formation, a unicellular life-cycle stage where two to four cells are retained within a mother-cell wall after mitosis. ECM production increased with nitrogen levels resulting in more cells being in palmelloids and higher rates of multicellular group formation. Examining the distribution of 332 algae species across 478 lakes monitored over 55 years, showed that ECM and nitrogen availability also predicted patterns of obligate multicellularity in nature. Our results highlight that adaptations of unicellular organisms to cope with environmental challenges may be key to understanding evolutionary routes to multicellular life.
Direct observation of Earth’s spectral long-wave feedback parameter
Authors: Roemer Florian E. , Buehler Stefan A. , Brath Manfred , Kluft Lukas , John Viju O.
Published: April 2023

The spectral long-wave feedback parameter represents how Earth’s outgoing long-wave radiation adjusts to temperature changes and directly impacts Earth’s climate sensitivity. Most research so far has focused on the spectral integral of the feedback parameter. Spectrally resolving the feedback parameter permits inferring information about the vertical distribution of long-wave feedbacks, thus gaining a better understanding of the underlying processes. However, investigations of the spectral long-wave feedback parameter have so far been limited mostly to model studies. Here we show that it is possible to directly observe the global mean all-sky spectral long-wave feedback parameter using satellite observations of seasonal and interannual variability. We find that spectral bands subject to strong water-vapour absorption exhibit a substantial stabilizing net feedback. We demonstrate that part of this stabilizing feedback is caused by the change of relative humidity with warming, the radiative fingerprints of which can be directly observed. Therefore, our findings emphasize the importance of better understanding processes affecting the present distribution and future trends in relative humidity. This observational constraint on the spectral long-wave feedback parameter can be used to evaluate the representation of long-wave feedbacks in global climate models and to better constrain Earth’s climate sensitivity.
Orthogonal cytokine engineering enables novel synthetic effector states escaping canonical exhaustion in tumor-rejecting CD8+ T cells
Authors: Corria-Osorio Jesus , Carmona Santiago J. , Stefanidis Evangelos , Andreatta Massimo , Ortiz-Miranda Yaquelin , Muller Tania , Rota Ioanna A. , Crespo Isaac , Seijo Bili , Castro Wilson , Jimenez-Luna Cristina , Scarpellino Leonardo , Ronet Catherine , Spill Aodrenn , Lanitis Evripidis , Romero Pedro , Luther Sanjiv A. , Irving Melita , Coukos George
Published: April 2023

To date, no immunotherapy approaches have managed to fully overcome T-cell exhaustion, which remains a mandatory fate for chronically activated effector cells and a major therapeutic challenge. Understanding how to reprogram CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes away from exhausted effector states remains an elusive goal. Our work provides evidence that orthogonal gene engineering of T cells to secrete an interleukin (IL)-2 variant binding the IL-2Rβγ receptor and the alarmin IL-33 reprogrammed adoptively transferred T cells to acquire a novel, synthetic effector state, which deviated from canonical exhaustion and displayed superior effector functions. These cells successfully overcame homeostatic barriers in the host and led—in the absence of lymphodepletion or exogenous cytokine support—to high levels of engraftment and tumor regression. Our work unlocks a new opportunity of rationally engineering synthetic CD8+ T-cell states endowed with the ability to avoid exhaustion and control advanced solid tumors.
Simulation-based estimates and projections of global, regional and country-level maternal mortality by cause, 1990–2050
Authors: Ward Zachary J. , Atun Rifat , King Gary , Sequeira Dmello Brenda , Goldie Sue J.
Published: April 2023

Maternal mortality is a major global health challenge. Although progress has been made globally in reducing maternal deaths, measurement remains challenging given the many causes and frequent underreporting of maternal deaths. We developed the Global Maternal Health microsimulation model for women in 200 countries and territories, accounting for individual fertility preferences and clinical histories. Demographic, epidemiologic, clinical and health system data were synthesized from multiple sources, including the medical literature, Civil Registration Vital Statistics systems and Demographic and Health Survey data. We calibrated the model to empirical data from 1990 to 2015 and assessed the predictive accuracy of our model using indicators from 2016 to 2020. We projected maternal health indicators from 1990 to 2050 for each country and estimate that between 1990 and 2020 annual global maternal deaths declined by over 40% from 587,500 (95% uncertainty intervals (UI) 520,600–714,000) to 337,600 (95% UI 307,900–364,100), and are projected to decrease to 327,400 (95% UI 287,800–360,700) in 2030 and 320,200 (95% UI 267,100–374,600) in 2050. The global maternal mortality ratio is projected to decline to 167 (95% UI 142–188) in 2030, with 58 countries above 140, suggesting that on current trends, maternal mortality Sustainable Development Goal targets are unlikely to be met. Building on the development of our structural model, future research can identify context-specific policy interventions that could allow countries to accelerate reductions in maternal deaths.
A new open, high-resolution, multishell, diffusion-weighted imaging dataset of the living squirrel monkey
Authors: Orset Thomas , Royo Julie , Santin Mathieu David , Pouget Pierre , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel
Published: April 2023

Although very well adapted to brain study, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) remains limited by the facilities and capabilities required to acquire data, especially for non-human primates. Addressing the data gaps resulting from these limitations requires making data more accessible and open. In contempt of the regular use of Saimiri sciureus in neuroscience research, in vivo diffusion has yet to be openly available for this species. Here we built and made openly available a unique new resource consisting of a high-resolution, multishell diffusion-weighted dataset in the anesthetized Saimiri sciureus. The data were acquired on 11 individuals with an 11.7 T MRI scanner (isotropic resolution of 400 µm3). This paper presents an overview of our dataset and illustrates some of its possible use through example analyses. To assess the quality of our data, we analyzed long-range connections (whole-brain tractography), microstructure (Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging), and axon diameter in the corpus callosum (ActiveAx). Constituting an essential new resource for primate evolution studies, all data are openly available.
Infrasound detection of approaching lahars
Authors: Johnson J. B. , Roca A. , Pineda A. , Mérida R. , Escobar-Wolf R. , Anderson J. F. , Mock J. , Bosa A. , Bejar G. , P. Waite G.
Published: April 2023

Infrasound may be used to detect the approach of hazardous volcanic mudflows, known as lahars, tens of minutes before their flow fronts arrive. We have analyzed signals from more than 20 secondary lahars caused by precipitation events at Fuego Volcano during Guatemala’s rainy season in May through October of 2022. We are able to quantify the capabilities of infrasound monitoring through comparison with seismic data, time lapse camera imagery, and high-resolution video of a well-recorded event on August 17. We determine that infrasound sensors, deployed adjacent to the lahar path and in small-aperture (10 s of meters) arrays, are particularly sensitive to remote detection of lahars, including small-sized events, at distances of at least 5 km. At Fuego Volcano these detections could be used to provide timely alerts of up to 30 min before lahars arrive at a downstream monitoring site, such as in the frequently impacted Ceniza drainage. We propose that continuous infrasound monitoring, from locations adjacent to a drainage, may complement seismic monitoring and serve as a valuable tool to help identify approaching hazards. On the other hand, infrasound arrays located a kilometer or more from the lahar path can be effectively used to track a lahar’s progression.
A Mozambican marine protected area provides important habitat for vulnerable pelagic sharks
Authors: Murie Calum J. G. , Lebrato Mario , Lawrence Andrew , Brown James , Gavard Livia , Bowles Karen R. , Jije Mauro G. , Dicken Matt , Oliver Simon P.
Published: April 2023

Pelagic sharks play key roles in marine ecosystems, but are increasingly threatened by human extraction, habitat degradation and mismanagement. We investigated the use of protected and unprotected coastal habitats by bull (Carcharhinus leucas) and oceanic blacktip (Carcharhinus limbatus) sharks in southern Mozambique. Five INNOVASEA VR2W-69 kHz acoustic receivers were positioned in the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (BANP) as well as one to the south of the park’s boundaries. Seven receivers were also deployed 250 km south in the Inhambane estuary and on reef sites off Praia de Tofo. Twelve bull, and six oceanic blacktip sharks, were fitted with INNOVASEA V16 acoustic tags, which generated 933 detections of bull and 12,381 detections of oceanic blacktip sharks over a period of 1391 days. A generalised additive model was used to estimate the effects of seven spatiotemporal and environmental parameters on the frequency of each species’ detections. In general, calculated residency indices were highest around the locations monitored in the BANP and one unprotected location off Tofo. Both species were more abundant across the monitored sites, during the summer when water temperatures were ~ 27 °C, when the moon was < 50% illuminated, and when the tide was rising. Detections coincided with each species’ reproductive season indicating that both species may be reproductively active in the BANP region. Oceanic blacktip sharks were largely resident and so fisheries management may significantly benefit their population(s) around certain reef habitats in the BANP. The low residency and seasonal detections of bull sharks indicates that they may be transient and so effective conservation may require coordination between regional fisheries managers.
Molecular mechanism underlying the increased risk of colorectal cancer metastasis caused by single nucleotide polymorphisms in LI-cadherin gene
Authors: Yui Anna , Kuroda Daisuke , Maruno Takahiro , Nakakido Makoto , Nagatoishi Satoru , Uchiyama Susumu , Tsumoto Kouhei
Published: April 2023

LI-cadherin is a member of the cadherin superfamily. LI-cadherin mediates Ca2+-dependent cell–cell adhesion through homodimerization. A previous study reported two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the LI-cadherin-coding gene (CDH17). These SNPs correspond to the amino acid changes of Lys115 to Glu and Glu739 to Ala. Patients with colorectal cancer carrying these SNPs are reported to have a higher risk of lymph node metastasis than patients without the SNPs. Although proteins associated with metastasis have been identified, the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of these proteins remain unclear, making it difficult to develop effective strategies to prevent metastasis. In this study, we employed biochemical assays and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which the amino acid changes caused by the SNPs in the LI-cadherin-coding gene increase the risk of metastasis. Cell aggregation assays showed that the amino acid changes weakened the LI-cadherin-dependent cell–cell adhesion. In vitro assays demonstrated a decrease in homodimerization tendency and MD simulations suggested an alteration in the intramolecular hydrogen bond network by the mutation of Lys115. Taken together, our results indicate that the increased risk of lymph node metastasis is due to weakened cell–cell adhesion caused by the decrease in homodimerization tendency.
Morphologic analysis of the 1st and 2nd tarsometatarsal joint articular surfaces
Authors: Requist Melissa R. , Rolvien Tim , Barg Alexej , Lenz Amy L.
Published: April 2023

Tarsometatarsal joint arthrodesis is used to treat a variety of injuries and deformities in the midfoot. However, the surgical technique has not been optimized, in part due to limited knowledge of morphologic features and variation in the related joints. Previous research has relied primarily on dissection-based anatomical analysis, but quantitative imaging may allow for a more sophisticated description of this complex. Here, we used quantitative micro-CT imaging to examine dimensions, distance maps, and curvature of the four articular surfaces in the first and second tarsometatarsal joints. Image segmentation, articular surface identification, and anatomic coordinate systems were all done with semi or fully automatic methods, and distance and size measurements were all taken utilizing these anatomic planes. Surface curvature was studied using Gaussian curvature and a newly defined measure of curvature similarity on the whole joint and on four subregions of each surface. These data show larger articular surfaces on the cuneiforms, rather than metatarsals, and define the generally tall and narrow articular surfaces seen in these joints. Curvature analysis shows minimally curved opposing convex surfaces. Our results are valuable for furthering knowledge of surgical anatomy in this poorly understood region of the foot.
Organic buffers act as reductants of abiotic and biogenic manganese oxides
Authors: Hausladen Debra M. , Peña Jasquelin
Published: April 2023

Proton activity is the master variable in many biogeochemical reactions. To control pH, laboratory studies involving redox-sensitive minerals like manganese (Mn) oxides frequently use organic buffers (typically Good’s buffers); however, two Good’s buffers, HEPES and MES, have been shown to reduce Mn(IV) to Mn(III). Because Mn(III) strongly controls mineral reactivity, avoiding experimental artefacts that increase Mn(III) content is critical to avoid confounding results. Here, we quantified the extent of Mn reduction upon reaction between Mn oxides and several Good’s buffers (MES, pKa = 6.10; PIPES, pKa = 6.76; MOPS, pKa = 7.28; HEPES, pKa = 7.48) and TRIS (pKa = 8.1) buffer. For δ-MnO2, Mn reduction was rapid, with up to 35% solid-phase Mn(III) generated within 1 h of reaction with Good’s buffers; aqueous Mn was minimal in all Good’s buffers experiments except those where pH was one unit below the buffer pKa and the reaction proceeded for 24 h. Additionally, the extent of Mn reduction after 24 h increased in the order MES < MOPS < PIPES < HEPES << TRIS. Of the variables tested, the initial Mn(II,III) content had the greatest effect on susceptibility to reduction, such that Mn reduction scaled inversely with the initial average oxidation number (AMON) of the oxide. For biogenic Mn oxides, which consist of a mixture of Mn oxides, bacterial cells and extracelluar polymeric substances, the extent of Mn reduction was lower than predicted from experiments using abiotic analogs and may result from biotic re-oxidation of reduced Mn or a difference in the reducibility of abiotic versus biogenic oxides. The results from this study show that organic buffers, including morpholinic and piperazinic Good’s buffers and TRIS, should be avoided for pH control in Mn oxide systems due to their ability to transfer electrons to Mn, which modifies the composition and reactivity of these redox-active minerals.
Biocompatible memristive device based on an agarose@gold nanoparticle-nanocomposite layer obtained from nature for neuromorphic computing
Authors: Kim Youngjin , An Jun Seop , Lee Donghee , Ryu Seong Yeon , Hwang Yoon-Chul , Kim Dae Hun , Kim Tae Whan
Published: April 2023

Natural, organic, materials-based artificial synaptic devices have been in the spotlight for wearable/flexible devices due to their lightweight, biocompatibility, and scalability. In this study, an electronic memristive device based on agarose extracted from plants in the Rhodophyceae class was fabricated, and its memory characteristics and analog data processing capabilities were evaluated. The Al/agarose@gold nanoparticle (AuNP) film/indium-tin-oxide (ITO)-structured memristive device exhibited reliable resistive switching characteristics with excellent retention with a large Ron/Roff ratio of 104. Also, analog conductance changes in our device were achieved with power consumption at the pJ level. This notable behavior could be maintained under mechanical deformations from a flat to a 4-mm bent state. In the recognition simulation based on the device's performance, an 91% accuracy and clear digit classification were achieved.
Epigenetic investigation into circulating microRNA 197-3p in sera from patients affected by malignant pleural mesothelioma and workers ex-exposed to asbestos
Authors: Di Mauro Giulia , Frontini Francesca , Torreggiani Elena , Iaquinta Maria Rosa , Caselli Andrea , Mazziotta Chiara , Esposito Valentina , Mazzoni Elisa , Libener Roberta , Grosso Federica , Maconi Antonio , Martini Fernanda , Bononi Ilaria , Tognon Mauro
Published: April 2023

The epigenetic role of microRNAs is established at both physiological and pathological levels. Dysregulated miRNAs and their targets appear to be a promising approach for innovative anticancer therapies. In our previous study, circulating miR-197-3p tested dysregulated in workers ex-exposed to asbestos (WEA). Herein, an epigenetic investigation on this circulating miRNA was carried out in sera from malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) patients. MiR-197-3p was quantified in MPM (n = 75) sera and comparatively analyzed to WEA (n = 75) and healthy subject (n = 75) sera, using ddPCR and RT-qPCR techniques. Clinicopathological characteristics, occupational, non-occupational information and overall survival (OS) were evaluated in correlation studies. MiR-197-3p levels, analyzed by ddPCR, were significantly higher in MPM than in WEA cohort, with a mean copies/µl of 981.7 and 525.01, respectively. Consistently, RT-qPCR showed higher miR-197-3p levels in sera from MPM with a mean copies/µl of 603.7, compared to WEA with 336.1 copies/µl. OS data were significantly associated with histologic subtype and pleurectomy. Circulating miR-197-3p is proposed as a new potential biomarker for an early diagnosis of the MPM onset. Indeed, miR-197-3p epigenetic investigations along with chest X-ray, computed tomography scan and spirometry could provide relevant information useful to reach an early and effective diagnosis for MPM.
Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 whole genome sequencing using tiled amplicon enrichment and bait hybridization
Authors: Koskela von Sydow Anita , Lindqvist Carl Mårten , Asghar Naveed , Johansson Magnus , Sundqvist Martin , Mölling Paula , Stenmark Bianca
Published: April 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) pandemic has led to extensive virological monitoring by whole genome sequencing (WGS). Investigating the advantages and limitations of different protocols is key when conducting population-level WGS. SARS-CoV-2 positive samples with Ct values of 14–30 were run using three different protocols: the Twist Bioscience SARS‑CoV‑2 protocol with bait hybridization enrichment sequenced with Illumina, and two tiled amplicon enrichment protocols, ARTIC V3 and Midnight, sequenced with Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technologies, respectively. Twist resulted in better coverage uniformity and coverage of the entire genome, but has several drawbacks: high human contamination, laborious workflow, high cost, and variation between batches. The ARTIC and Midnight protocol produced an even coverage across samples, and almost all reads were mapped to the SARS-CoV-2 reference. ARTIC and Midnight represent robust, cost-effective, and highly scalable methods that are appropriate in a clinical environment. Lineage designations were uniform across methods, representing the dominant lineages in Sweden during the period of collection. This study provides insights into methodological differences in SARS‑CoV‑2 sequencing and guidance in selecting suitable methods for various purposes.
Concurrent dilution and amplification effects in an intraguild predation eco-epidemiological model
Authors: Gómez-Hernández Enith A. , Moreno-Gómez Felipe N. , Bravo-Gaete Moisés , Córdova-Lepe Fernando
Published: April 2023

The dilution and amplification effects are important concepts in the field of zoonotic diseases. While the dilution effect predicts that pathogen prevalence is negatively correlated with increased species diversity, the opposite trend is observed when the amplification effect occurs. Understanding how interspecific interactions such as predation and competition within a community influence disease transmission is highly relevant. We explore the conditions under which the dilution and amplification effects arise, using compartmental models that integrate ecological and epidemiological interactions. We formulate an intraguild predation model where each species is divided into two compartments: susceptible and infected individuals. We obtained that increasing predation increases the disease transmission potential of the predator and the density of infected individuals, but decreases the disease transmission potential of the prey, as well as their density. Also, we found that interspecific competition always helps to decrease the number of infected individuals in the population of the two species. Therefore, dilution and amplification effects can be observed simultaneously but depending on different types of cological interactions.
Evaluation of infliximab/tocilizumab versus tocilizumab among COVID-19 patients with cytokine storm syndrome
Authors: Sarhan Neven Mohamed , Warda Ahmed Essam Abou , Ibrahim Haytham Soliman Ghareeb , Schaalan Mona Farag , Fathy Shaimaa Mohamed
Published: April 2023

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to spread rapidly. Monoclonal antibodies as well as anti-tumor necrosis factor are considered promising treatments for COVID-19. A prospective cohort study in which patients are divided into three groups. Group 1: moderate and severe COVID-19 patients received standard treatment; Group 2: moderate and severe COVID-19 patients received tocilizumab; Group 3: moderate and severe COVID-19 patients received treatment with infliximab and tocilizumab. 153 patients were recruited in the study. 40 received standard treatment alone, 70 received tocilizumab with standard treatment, and 43 received tocilizumab/infliximab with standard treatment. There was a significant difference in length of hospital stay (10.3, 8.9, and 7.6 days respectively P = 0.03), need for a non-invasive mechanical ventilator (4, 5, and one patient; P = 1.2E−8), intensive care admission (32, 45, and 16 patients; P = 2.5E−5), the occurrence of sepsis (18, 12, and 10 patients; P = 0.005) and in death (42.5%, 14.2%, and 7%; P = 0.0008) which were significantly lower in tocilizumab/infliximab group compared to tocilizumab and standard of care groups. Our study showed that tocilizumab/ infliximab in addition to standard of care was considered a promising treatment for moderate and severe COVID-19 patients.

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04734678; date of registration: 02/02/2021.
Estimation and sensitivity analysis of a COVID-19 model considering the use of face mask and vaccination
Authors: Bai Zhongtian , Ma Zhihui , Jing Libaihe , Li Yonghong , Wang Shufan , Wang Bin-Guo , Wu Yan , Han Xiaotao
Published: April 2023

To model the COVID-19 infection and develop effective control measures, this paper proposes an SEIR-type epidemic model considering the impact of face-mask wearing and vaccination. Firstly, the effective reproduction number and the threshold conditions are obtained. Secondly, based on the data of South Korea from January 20, 2022 to March 21, 2022, the model parameters are estimated. Finally, a sensitivity analysis and the numerical study are conducted. The results show that the face-mask wearing is associated with $$83\%$$

83
%

and $$90\%$$

90
%

reductions in the numbers of cumulative cases and newly confirmed cases, respectively, after a period of 60 days, when the face mask wearing rate increases by $$15\%$$

15
%

. Furthermore, the vaccination rate is associated with $$75\%$$

75
%

and $$80\%$$

80
%

reductions in the numbers of cumulative cases and the newly confirmed cases, respectively, after the same period of 60 days when the vaccination rate is increased by $$15\%$$

15
%

. A combined measure involving face-mask wearing and vaccination may be more effective and reasonable in preventing and controlling this infection. It is also suggested that disease control departments should strongly recommended the wearing of face masks s as well as vaccination to prevent the unvaccinated people from becoming infected.
Measurement properties of 72 movement biomarkers aiming to discriminate non‑specific chronic low back pain patients from an asymptomatic population
Authors: Moissenet Florent , Armand Stéphane , Genevay Stéphane
Published: April 2023

The identification of relevant and valid biomarkers to distinguish patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) from an asymptomatic population in terms of musculoskeletal factors could contribute to patient follow-up and to evaluate therapeutic strategies. Several parameters related to movement impairments have been proposed in the literature in that respect. However, most of them were assessed in only one study, and only 8% were evaluated in terms of reliability, validity and interpretability. The aim of this study was to consolidate the current knowledge about movement biomarkers to discriminate NSCLBP patients from an asymptomatic population. For that, an experimental protocol was established to assess the reliability, validity and interpretability of a set of 72 movement biomarkers on 30 asymptomatic participants and 30 NSCLBP patients. Correlations between the biomarkers and common patient reported outcome measures were also analysed. Four biomarkers reached at least a good level in reliability (ICC ≥ 0.75) and validity (significant difference between asymptomatic participants and NSCLBP patients, p ≤ 0.01) domains and could thus be possibly considered as valuable biomarkers: maximal lumbar sagittal angle, lumbar sagittal angle range of motion, mean lumbar sagittal angular velocity, and maximal upper lumbar sagittal angle during trunk sagittal bending. These four biomarkers demonstrated typically larger values in asymptomatic participants than in NSCLBP patients. They are in general weakly correlated with patient reported outcome measures, arguing for a potential interest in including related musculoskeletal factors in the establishment of a valuable diagnosis and in guiding treatment response.
Effect of green and roasted coffee storage conditions on selected characteristic quality parameters
Authors: Błaszkiewicz Justyna , Nowakowska-Bogdan Ewa , Barabosz Krzysztof , Kulesza Renata , Dresler Ewa , Woszczyński Piotr , Biłos Łukasz , Matuszek Dominika Barbara , Szkutnik Krzysztof
Published: April 2023

The paper attempts to determine the best storage conditions for green and roasted coffee beans. Coffee beans were processed in various ways—some of them were washed or left in their natural state after harvesting, then they were stored in two types of packaging with different permeability, i.e. jute bag and GrainPro polymer bag, ensuring stable conditions in three temperature chambers, i.e. − 10, 10 and 20 °C. The grains treated in this way were evaluated after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The selection of the analyzed parameters (in roasted coffee—cupping and 3 selected volatile organic compounds; in green coffee—average water activity, content of volatile fatty acids, 6 selected volatile organic compounds) was to monitor the ongoing processes, and thus the qualitative changes taking place in grains. The research shows that grain stored at 20 °C ages the fastest. Grains stored in − 10 °C and 10 °C chambers perform similarly well. The evaluation of the parameters shows that among the grains stored in these two chambers, the method of grain processing (Natural/Washed) had a greater impact on the results, while the type of packaging did not differentiate the grains to such a significant extent.
Micro-computed tomography for the identification and characterization of archaeological lime bark
Authors: Stelzner Jörg , Million Sebastian , Stelzner Ingrid , Nelle Oliver , Banck-Burgess Johanna
Published: April 2023

In the Neolithic pile-dwelling settlements of southwestern Germany, bark played a prominent role in the production of technical textiles. So far, the inner bark (phloem) of the lime tree (genus Tilia) could be detected most frequently. Microscopic examination of anatomical features can determine the taxon, requiring manipulation of samples and archaeological objects. In this study, micro-computed tomography (µCT) was reviewed as a method for determining the woody taxon and obtaining additional information from the inner bark. To this end, modern bark samples from different tree organs of lime were first analysed using both µCT and transmitted light microscopy. Both methods were able to detect all characteristic anatomical features in the phloem and identify the genus. With analysis based on µCT data, further anatomical information can be obtained. For example, the shape of the phloem rays in the bast strips can provide information on the position within the bark and on the original organ diameter. These results obtained on modern material were verified on four samples from archaeological objects. Based on µCT, all samples could be clearly identified as lime and in two cases conclusions could also be drawn about the raw material. This approach could lead to new results and interpretations in archaeological sciences.
Pipe vibration attenuation through internal damping and optimal design of vibro-impact systems
Authors: Aloschi Fabrizio , Andreotti Roberto , Bursi Oreste Salvatore
Published: April 2023

Pipelines periodically supported by rack structures (PPRs) are common in chemical and petrochemical plants, among others, and conventional tools such as dampers and hysteretic absorbers are commonly used to mitigate large vibrations in these systems. In this study, we explore two alternative strategies: (i) enhancing the attenuation rate of PPR vibrations through structural internal damping, and (ii) using nonlinear vibro-impact systems (VIS) to reduce seismic vibrations in a PPR. To shed light on the first strategy, we develop analytical dispersion relations for a PPR and show how damping can improve the mitigation capabilities of the periodic system. As for the second strategy, we consider a 9-node beam, i.e., a single span (SS) of a PPR equipped with a VIS, and combine the central composite design (CCD) and Kriging metamodelling to maximize dissipation energy and minimize the number of impacts. This multi-objective optimization problem aims to find the most effective design solution for the VIS in terms of gap and coefficient of restitution (COR). Additionally, we consider the stochastic nature of seismic input and the possible chaotic behavior of the VIS. To account for the sensitive variability of the number of impacts in seismic records, we perform incremental dynamic analyses and calculate fragility functions for various engineering demand parameters, including the number of impacts. We define a 3D surface for selecting the optimal gap-COR pair. When impacts occur, transient results can be chaotic, and we compute the largest Lyapunov exponents of a few representative trajectories.
Serum lipid mediator profiles in COVID-19 patients and lung disease severity: a pilot study
Authors: Irún Pilar , Gracia Rafael , Piazuelo Elena , Pardo Julián , Morte Elena , Paño José Ramon , Boza Julio , Carrera-Lasfuentes Patricia , Higuera Gustavo A. , Lanas Angel
Published: April 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection is highly heterogeneous, ranging from asymptomatic to severe and fatal cases. COVID-19 has been characterized by an increase of serum pro-inflammatory cytokine levels which seems to be associated with fatal cases. By contrast, the role of pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs), involved in the attenuation of inflammatory responses, has been scarcely investigated, so further studies are needed to understand SPMs metabolism in COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Our aim was to analyse the lipid mediator metabolome, quantifying pro- and anti-inflammatory serum bioactive lipids by LC–MS/MS in 7 non-infected subjects and 24 COVID-19 patients divided into mild, moderate, and severe groups according to the pulmonary involvement, to better understand the disease outcome and the severity of the pulmonary manifestations. Statistical analysis was performed with the R programming language (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria). All COVID-19 patients had increased levels of Prostaglandin E2. Severe patients showed a significant increase versus controls, mild- and moderate-affected patients, expressed as median (interquartile range), in resolvin E1 [112.6 (502.7) vs 0.0 (0.0) pg/ml in the other groups], as well as in maresin 2 [14.5 (7.0) vs 8.1 (4.2), 5.5 (4.3), and 3.0 (4.0) pg/ml, respectively]. Moreover, 14-hydroxy docosahexaenoic acid (14-HDHA) levels were also increased in severe vs control and mild-affected patients [24.7 (38.2) vs 2.4 (2.2) and 3.7 (6.4) ng/mL, respectively]. Resolvin D5 was also significantly elevated in both moderate [15.0 (22.4) pg/ml] and severe patients [24.0 (24.1) pg/ml] versus controls [0.0 (0.0) pg/ml]. These results were confirmed by sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis which highlighted the contribution of these mediators to the separation between each of the groups. In conclusion, the potent inflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2 infection involves not only pro- but also anti-inflammatory lipid mediators that can be quantified in easily accessible serum samples, suggesting the need to perform future research on their generation pathways that will help us to discover new therapeutic targets.
Early stoma closure after low anterior resection is not recommended due to postoperative complications and asymptomatic anastomotic leakage
Authors: Fukudome Ian , Maeda Hiromichi , Okamoto Ken , Yamaguchi Sachi , Fujisawa Kazune , Shiga Mai , Dabanaka Ken , Kobayashi Michiya , Namikawa Tsutomu , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: April 2023

The safety of early stoma closure after lower anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer remains controversial. In this study, patients scheduled to undergo LAR and stoma creation for rectal cancer were recruited. In absence of anastomotic leakage on radiological examination, closure of the diverting ileostomy was performed within 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was incidence of the colorectal anastomosis leakage after early stoma closure. Because of the slow accrual rate, the study was closed before recruitment reached the planned number of patients (n = 20). Among the 13 patients enrolled between April 2019 and March 2021, early stoma closure was performed in seven patients (53.8%). Non-clinical anastomotic leakage, leakage identified only on radiological examination, occurred in five cases, resulting in rescheduling of stoma closure. One patient did not undergo early stoma closure due to ileus. After stoma closure, colorectal anastomotic leakage manifested in one case; its incidence rate was 14.2%. Surgical site infection occurred in 42.8% of patients. This study revealed that asymptomatic anastomotic leakage occurred frequently. Considering the low rate of successful cases and the high rate of complications, early stoma closure within 2 weeks after LAR should not be performed routinely. Trial registration: (UMIN000036382 registered on 03/04/2019).
White blood cell count profiles in anti-aquaporin-4 antibody seropositive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease
Authors: Akaishi Tetsuya , Misu Tatsuro , Fujihara Kazuo , Nakaya Kumi , Nakaya Naoki , Nakamura Tomohiro , Kogure Mana , Hatanaka Rieko , Itabashi Fumi , Kanno Ikumi , Kaneko Kimihiko , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Fujimori Juichi , Takai Yoshiki , Nishiyama Shuhei , Ishii Tadashi , Aoki Masashi , Nakashima Ichiro , Hozawa Atsushi
Published: April 2023

White blood cell (WBC) count profiles in anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) and anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) are still unknown. This study evaluated the total WBC count, differential WBC counts, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with these diseases within three months from an attack before acute treatment or relapse prevention and compared the profiles with those in matched volunteers or in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. AQP4-NMOSD patients (n = 13) had a higher neutrophil count (p = 0.0247), monocyte count (p = 0.0359), MLR (p = 0.0004), and NLR (p = 0.0037) and lower eosinophil (p = 0.0111) and basophil (p = 0.0283) counts than those of AQP4-NMOSD-matched volunteers (n = 65). Moreover, patients with MOGAD (n = 26) had a higher overall WBC count (p = 0.0001), neutrophil count (p < 0.0001), monocyte count (p = 0.0191), MLR (p = 0.0320), and NLR (p = 0.0002) than those of MOGAD-matched volunteers (n = 130). The three demyelinating diseases showed similar levels of the total and differential WBC counts; however, MOGAD and MS showed different structures in the hierarchical clustering and distributions on a two-dimensional canonical plot using differential WBC counts from the other three groups. WBC count profiles were similar in patients with MOGAD and MS but differed from profiles in matched volunteers or patients with AQP4-NMOSD.
Topologically associating domain boundaries are required for normal genome function
Authors: Rajderkar Sudha , Barozzi Iros , Zhu Yiwen , Hu Rong , Zhang Yanxiao , Li Bin , Alcaina Caro Ana , Fukuda-Yuzawa Yoko , Kelman Guy , Akeza Adyam , Blow Matthew J. , Pham Quan , Harrington Anne N. , Godoy Janeth , Meky Eman M. , von Maydell Kianna , Hunter Riana D. , Akiyama Jennifer A. , Novak Catherine S. , Plajzer-Frick Ingrid , Afzal Veena , Tran Stella , Lopez-Rios Javier , Talkowski Michael E. , Lloyd K. C. Kent , Ren Bing , Dickel Diane E. , Visel Axel , Pennacchio Len A.
Published: April 2023

Topologically associating domain (TAD) boundaries partition the genome into distinct regulatory territories. Anecdotal evidence suggests that their disruption may interfere with normal gene expression and cause disease phenotypes1–3, but the overall extent to which this occurs remains unknown. Here we demonstrate that targeted deletions of TAD boundaries cause a range of disruptions to normal in vivo genome function and organismal development. We used CRISPR genome editing in mice to individually delete eight TAD boundaries (11–80 kb in size) from the genome. All deletions examined resulted in detectable molecular or organismal phenotypes, which included altered chromatin interactions or gene expression, reduced viability, and anatomical phenotypes. We observed changes in local 3D chromatin architecture in 7 of 8 (88%) cases, including the merging of TADs and altered contact frequencies within TADs adjacent to the deleted boundary. For 5 of 8 (63%) loci examined, boundary deletions were associated with increased embryonic lethality or other developmental phenotypes. For example, a TAD boundary deletion near Smad3/Smad6 caused complete embryonic lethality, while a deletion near Tbx5/Lhx5 resulted in a severe lung malformation. Our findings demonstrate the importance of TAD boundary sequences for in vivo genome function and reinforce the critical need to carefully consider the potential pathogenicity of noncoding deletions affecting TAD boundaries in clinical genetics screening.
Unconventional surface state pairs in a high-symmetry lattice with anti-ferromagnetic band-folding
Authors: Wang Lin-Lin , Ahn Junyeong , Slager Robert-Jan , Kushnirenko Yevhen , Ueland Benjamin G. , Sapkota Aashish , Schrunk Benjamin , Kuthanazhi Brinda , McQueeney Robert J. , Canfield Paul C. , Kaminski Adam
Published: April 2023

Many complex magnetic structures in a high-symmetry lattice can arise from a superposition of well-defined magnetic wave vectors. These “multi-q” structures have garnered much attention because of interesting real-space spin textures such as skyrmions. However, the role multi-q structures play in the topology of electronic bands in momentum space has remained rather elusive. Here we show that the type-I anti-ferromagnetic 1q, 2q and 3q structures in an face-centered cubic sublattice with band inversion, such as NdBi, can induce unconventional surface state pairs inside the band-folding hybridization bulk gap. Our density functional theory calculations match well with the recent experimental observation of unconventional surface states with hole Fermi arc-like features and electron pockets below the Neel temperature. We further show that these multi-q structures have Dirac and Weyl nodes. Our work reveals the special role that band-folding from anti-ferromagnetism and multi-q structures can play in developing new types of surface states.
Reaction mechanism of nickel sulfide atomic layer deposition using bis(N,N′-di-tert-butylacetamidinato)nickel(ii) and hydrogen sulfide
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhou Zhongchao , Xu Rui , Guo Jiayi , Xu Lina , Ding Yihong , Xiao Hongping , Li Xinhua , Li Aidong , Fang Guoyong
Published: April 2023

DFT investigations show that Ni(tBu-MeAMD)2 can react with the sulfhydryl group on the surface and the second amidine ligand of Ni(amd)2 can be eliminated via two pathways of H2S reaction with the amidined surface.
The next generation of hybrid microfluidic/integrated circuit chips: recent and upcoming advances in high-speed, high-throughput, and multifunctional lab-on-IC systems
Authors: Iyer Vasant , Issadore David A. , Aflatouni Firooz
Published: April 2023

This review discusses recent examples of labs-on-chip that use high-resolution, high-speed, and multifunctional electronic and photonic chips to expand the capabilities of conventional sample analysis.
Geographical origin traceability of rice using a FTIR-based metabolomics approach
Authors: Xue Weifeng , Wang Qi , Li Xuemei , Wang Mei , Dong Zhenlin , Bian Haitao , Li Fang
Published: April 2023

A novel FTIR-based metabolomics approach via seeking ‘wave number markers’ was developed for origin traceability of rice.
Hydrogen bond-mediated pH-universal electrocatalytic hydrogen production by conjugated porous poly-indigo
Authors: Nath Ipsita , Chakraborty Jeet , Lips Reinaud , Dekyvere Sander , Min Jiang , Varma Rajender S. , Verpoort Francis
Published: April 2023

High-performing catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) via water electrolysis are of great importance for producing carbon-free green fuels.
Molecular design and coordination regulation of atomically dispersed bi-functional catalysts for oxygen electrocatalysis
Authors: Sheng Kuang , Li Guang , Hao Jiayu , Wang Yanqiu , Shi Kaili , Liu Yang , Zhang Ning , Qiu Xiaoqing , Liu Min , Li Wenzhang , Li Jie
Published: April 2023

Molecular design and coordination regulation of atomically dispersed bi-functional catalysts for oxygen electrocatalysis are discussed. General strategies include design of the substrate, selection of the metal atom center, and modulation of the coordination environment.
Self-constrained DNAzyme for aptamer-based and sensitive label-free fluorescent assay of sarafloxacin via signal amplification cascades
Authors: Wang Qianying , Zhang Junyi , Yuan Ruo , Xiang Yun
Published: April 2023

Target-induced activation of self-constrained DNAzyme leads to a dual signal amplification cascade for label-free and highly sensitive fluorescent sensing of sarafloxacin.
Hexachlorotriphosphazene-assisted buried interface passivation for stable and efficient wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wang Ruyue , Li Minghua , Ma Zongwen , He Zhangwei , Dong Yiman , Zhang Yuling , Xu Zhiyang , Su Gangfeng , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: April 2023

A buried interface treatment by hexachlorotriphosphazene is developed to suppress the open-circuit voltage (Voc) loss in wide bandgap perovskite solar cells (PerSCs). The PerSCs include a 1.67 eV absorber and deliver a high efficiency of 21.47%.