bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of resting-state fMRI driven machine learning algorithms in the detection of mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Bolla Gergo , Berente Dalida Borbala , Andrássy Anita , Zsuffa Janos Andras , Hidasi Zoltan , Csibri Eva , Csukly Gabor , Kamondi Anita , Kiss Mate , Horvath Andras Attila
Published: December 2023

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a potential therapeutic window in the prevention of dementia; however, automated detection of early cognitive deterioration is an unresolved issue. The aim of our study was to compare various classification approaches to differentiate MCI patients from healthy controls, based on rs-fMRI data, using machine learning (ML) algorithms. Own dataset (from two centers) and ADNI database were used during the analysis. Three fMRI parameters were applied in five feature selection algorithms: local correlation, intrinsic connectivity, and fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuations. Support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) methods were applied for classification. We achieved a relatively wide range of 78–87% accuracy for the various feature selection methods with SVM combining the three rs-fMRI parameters. In the ADNI datasets case we can also see even 90% accuracy scores. RF provided a more harmonized result among the feature selection algorithms in both datasets with 80–84% accuracy for our local and 74–82% for the ADNI database. Despite some lower performance metrics of some algorithms, most of the results were positive and could be seen in two unrelated datasets which increase the validity of our methods. Our results highlight the potential of ML-based fMRI applications for automated diagnostic techniques to recognize MCI patients.
Prevalence and antibiotics resistance status of Salmonella in raw meat consumed in various areas of Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Aiman , Saleem Maira , Nawaz Shahid , Khalid Linta , Riaz Saba , Sajid Imran
Published: December 2023

This study reports the prevalence and antibiotics resistance status of Salmonella detected in raw meat from Lahore, Pakistan. Overall, N = 111 meat samples, were collected from local markets. Salmonella was recovered from 57 (51.35%) samples, including 45.83% of poultry, 60% of buffalo, 64.28% of cow, and 60% of goat meat samples. The predominant Salmonella strains were Salmonella enterica serovars; Typhimurium (45.4%), Typhi (27.2%), and Enteritidis (18.1%), identified by VITEK system and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The isolates exhibited high resistance to Erythromycin (100%), Cefepime (98.24%), Colistin (94.73%), Azithromycin (92.98%), Tetracycline (87.71%), Polymyxin B (84.21%), Ciprofloxacin (84.21%), Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (80.70%), Nalidixic Acid (80.70%), Kanamycin (78.94%), Chloramphenicol (77.19%), Streptomycin (71.92%) and Ampicillin (64.91%). While the isolates exhibited more susceptibility to Meropenem (75.43%) and Amikacin (73.68%). N = 8 strains were designated as Multidrug Resistant (MDR) and N = 3 as Extensively Drug-Resistant (XDR) Salmonella. The PCR-based detection of resistance genes revealed the presence of blaTEM-1 gene (100%), catA1 gene (64%), and gyrA gene (18%). The whole genome sequencing (WGS) of two selected strains and subsequent downstream analysis confirmed the strains as MDR and XDR Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi. The study showed that raw meat consumed in Lahore carries a significantly high number of drug-resistant Salmonella.
An environmental analysis of public UAP sightings and sky view potential
Authors: Medina R. M. , Brewer S. C. , Kirkpatrick S. M.
Published: December 2023

Sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) or unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) have been reported throughout history. Given the potential security and safety risks they pose, as well as scientific curiosity, there is increasing interest in understanding what these sighting reports represent. We approach this problem as an important one of the human experience and that can be examined through a geographical lens: what local factors may increase or decrease the number of sighting reports? Using a Bayesian regression method, we test hypotheses based on variables representing sky view potential (light pollution, tree canopy, and cloud cover) and the potential for objects to be present in the sky (aircraft and military installations). The dependent variable includes over 98,000 publicly reported UAP sightings in the conterminous United States during the 20-year period from 2001 to 2020. The model results find credible correlations between variables that suggest people see more “phenomena” when they have more opportunity to. This analysis is one of few investigations of UAP sighting reports at a national scale providing context to help examine individual reports. Given that these objects are labeled unidentifiable in the personal sense, there are many natural and/or human based explanations worth exploring.
Optimizing time, cost, and carbon in construction: grasshopper algorithm empowered with tournament selection and opposition-based learning
Authors: Pham Vu Hong Son , Vo Duy Phuoc , Nguyen Dang Nghiep Trinh
Published: December 2023

The global construction industry plays a pivotal role, yet its unique characteristics pose distinctive challenges. Each construction project, marked by its individuality, substantial value, intricate scale, and constrained adaptability, confronts crucial limitations concerning time and cost. Despite contributing significantly to environmental concerns throughout construction activities and infrastructure operations, environmental considerations remain insufficiently addressed by project managers. This research introduces an improved rendition of the muti-objective grasshopper optimization algorithm (MOGOA), termed eMOGOA, as a novel methodology to tackle time, cost, and carbon dioxide emission trade-off problems (TCCP) in construction project management. To gauge its efficacy, a case study involving 29 activities is employed. eMOGOA amalgamates MOGOA, tournament selection (TS), and opposition-based learning (OBL) techniques to enhance the performance of the original MOGOA. The outcomes demonstrate that eMOGOA surpasses other optimization algorithms, such as MODA, MOSMA, MOALO and MOGOA when applied to TCCP. These findings underscore the efficiency and relevance of the eMOGOA algorithm within the realm of construction project management.
A proposed tree-based explainable artificial intelligence approach for the prediction of angina pectoris
Authors: Guldogan Emek , Yagin Fatma Hilal , Pinar Abdulvahap , Colak Cemil , Kadry Seifedine , Kim Jungeun
Published: December 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a serious public health issue that affects and is responsible for numerous fatalities and impairments. Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is one of the most prevalent and deadliest types of CVDs and is responsible for 45% of all CVD-related fatalities. IHD occurs when the blood supply to the heart is reduced due to narrowed or blocked arteries, which causes angina pectoris (AP) chest pain. AP is a common symptom of IHD and can indicate a higher risk of heart attack or sudden cardiac death. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat AP promptly and effectively. To forecast AP in women, we constructed a novel artificial intelligence (AI) method employing the tree-based algorithm known as an Explainable Boosting Machine (EBM). EBM is a machine learning (ML) technique that combines the interpretability of linear models with the flexibility and accuracy of gradient boosting. We applied EBM to a dataset of 200 female patients, 100 with AP and 100 without AP, and extracted the most relevant features for AP prediction. We then evaluated the performance of EBM against other AI methods, such as Logistic Regression (LR), Categorical Boosting (CatBoost), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost), and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM). We found that EBM was the most accurate and well-balanced technique for forecasting AP, with accuracy (0.925) and Youden's index (0.960). We also looked at the global and local explanations provided by EBM to better understand how each feature affected the prediction and how each patient was classified. Our research showed that EBM is a useful AI method for predicting AP in women and identifying the risk factors related to it. This can help clinicians to provide personalized and evidence-based care for female patients with AP.
Ferroptosis is involved in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in rats
Authors: Shi Yue , Shi Xiujie , Zhao Mingming , Zhang Yifan , Zhang Qi , Liu Jing , Duan Hangyu , Yang Bin , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2023

To explore whether ferroptosis is involved in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and its mechanism. The FSGS rat model was constructed by single nephrectomy combined with fractional tail vein injection of doxorubicin. 24-hour urine protein, serum biochemistry, HE, PAS and Masson pathological staining were measured to assess renal injury. Glomerular and morphological changes of ferroptosis were observed by transmission electron microscopy. Iron content in renal tissue was assessed by Prussian blue staining and iron detection. GSH/GSSG kit was used to detect the content and proportion of reduced/oxidized glutathione. Lipid peroxidation related proteins including MDA expression was assessed by colorimetry. The iron metabolism biomarkers such as hepcidin, ferroportin and TFR, ferroptosis biomarkers such as GPX4, ACSL4, and ferritinophagy biomarkers such as LC3II/LC3I, NCOA4, and FTH1 were detected by Western blot. Significant urinary protein, hyperlipidemia, azotemia, increased serum creatinine and hypoproteinemia were observed in FSGS rats. Histology and electron microscopy showed segmental sclerosis of glomeruli, compensatory enlargement of some glomeruli, occlusion of capillary lumen, balloon adhesion, increased mesangial matrix, atrophy of some tubules, and renal interstitial fibrosis in renal tissue of FSGS rats. The morphology of glomerular foot processes disappeared; the foot processes were extensively fused and some foot processes detached. Mitochondria became smaller, membrane density increased, and mitochondrial cristae decreased or disappeared. In addition, iron deposition was observed in renal tissue of FSGS rats. Compared with the control group, the levels of GSH, GSH/GSSG, GPX4, and ferroportin were reduced and the expression of GSSG, MDA, ACSL4, hepcidin, and TFR was increased in the renal tissue of FSGS rats; meanwhile, the expression of LC3II/LC3I and NCOA4 was increased and the expression of FTH1 was decreased. Ferroptosis is involved in the pathological progression of FSGS, which is probably associated with activation of ferritinophagy. This represents a potential therapeutic target for FSGS.
A non-invasive mouse model that recapitulates disuse-induced muscle atrophy in immobilized patients
Authors: Wu Kun-Chang , Lin Hsiang-Wen , Chu Po-Chen , Li Chia-Ing , Kao Hsiang-Han , Lin Chih-Hsueh , Cheng Yu-Jung
Published: December 2023

Disuse muscle atrophy occurs consequent to prolonged limb immobility or bed rest, which represents an unmet medical need. As existing animal models of limb immobilization often cause skin erosion, edema, and other untoward effects, we here report an alternative method via thermoplastic immobilization of hindlimbs in mice. While significant decreases in the weight and fiber size were noted after 7 days of immobilization, no apparent skin erosion or edema was found. To shed light onto the molecular mechanism underlying this muscle wasting, we performed the next-generation sequencing analysis of gastrocnemius muscles from immobilized versus non-mobilized legs. Among a total of 55,487 genes analyzed, 787 genes were differentially expressed (> fourfold; 454 and 333 genes up- and down-regulated, respectively), which included genes associated with muscle tissue development, muscle system process, protein digestion and absorption, and inflammation-related signaling. From a clinical perspective, this model may help understand the molecular/cellular mechanism that drives muscle disuse and identify therapeutic strategies for this debilitating disease.
Analysis of long non-coding RNAs associated with disulfidptosis for prognostic signature and immunotherapy response in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Li Bohan , Li Xiaoling , Ma Mudan , Wang Qing , Shi Jie , Wu Chao
Published: December 2023

Disulfidptosis, the demise of cells caused by the abnormal breakdown of disulfide bonds and actin in the cytoprotein backbone, has attracted attention in studies concerning disulfide-related cell death and its potential implications in cancer treatment. This study utilized bioinformatics to detect disulfidptosis associated lncRNA prognostic markers (DALPMs) with Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma (UCEC)-related to investigate the correlation between these indicators and the tumor immune microenvironment. The RNA sequencing data and somatic mutation information of patients with UCEC were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Patients were randomly divided into Train and Test groups. The findings revealed a potential prognostic model comprising 14 DALPMs. Both univariate and multivariate Cox analyses demonstrated that the model-derived risk score functioned as a standalone prognostic indicator for patients. Significant disparities in survival outcomes were observed between the high- and low-risk groups as defined by the model. Differences in tumor mutational burden (TMB), tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE), and tumor microenvironment (TME) stromal cells between patients of the high- and low-risk groups were also observed. The forecast model comprising long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) associated with disulfidptosis can effectively anticipate patients' prognoses.
Neuronal Gtf2i deletion alters mitochondrial and autophagic properties
Authors: Nir Sade Ariel , Levy Gilad , Schokoroy Trangle Sari , Elad Sfadia Galit , Bar Ela , Ophir Omer , Fischer Inbar , Rokach May , Atzmon Andrea , Parnas Hadar , Rosenberg Tali , Marco Asaf , Elroy Stein Orna , Barak Boaz
Published: December 2023

Gtf2i encodes the general transcription factor II-I (TFII-I), with peak expression during pre-natal and early post-natal brain development stages. Because these stages are critical for proper brain development, we studied at the single-cell level the consequences of Gtf2i’s deletion from excitatory neurons, specifically on mitochondria. Here we show that Gtf2i’s deletion resulted in abnormal morphology, disrupted mRNA related to mitochondrial fission and fusion, and altered autophagy/mitophagy protein expression. These changes align with elevated reactive oxygen species levels, illuminating Gtf2i’s importance in neurons mitochondrial function. Similar mitochondrial issues were demonstrated by Gtf2i heterozygous model, mirroring the human condition in Williams syndrome (WS), and by hemizygous neuronal Gtf2i deletion model, indicating Gtf2i’s dosage-sensitive role in mitochondrial regulation. Clinically relevant, we observed altered transcript levels related to mitochondria, hypoxia, and autophagy in frontal cortex tissue from WS individuals. Our study reveals mitochondrial and autophagy-related deficits shedding light on WS and other Gtf2i-related disorders.
Akaluc/AkaLumine bioluminescence system enables highly sensitive, non-invasive and temporal monitoring of gene expression in Drosophila
Authors: Ito Akira , Matsuda Nagisa , Ukita Yumiko , Okumura Misako , Chihara Takahiro
Published: December 2023

Bioluminescence generated by luciferase and luciferin has been extensively used in biological research. However, detecting signals from deep tissues in vivo poses a challenge to traditional methods. To overcome this, the Akaluc and AkaLumine bioluminescent systems were developed, resulting in improved signal detection. We evaluate the potential of Akaluc/AkaLumine in Drosophila melanogaster to establish a highly sensitive, non-invasive, and temporal detection method for gene expression. Our results show that oral administration of AkaLumine to flies expressing Akaluc provided a higher luminescence signal than Luc/D-luciferin, with no observed harmful effects on flies. The Akaluc/AkaLumine system allows for monitoring of dynamic temporal changes in gene expression. Additionally, using the Akaluc fusion gene allows for mRNA splicing monitoring. Our findings indicate that the Akaluc/AkaLumine system is a powerful bioluminescence tool for analyzing gene expression in deep tissues and small numbers of cells in Drosophila.
Enzyme-controlled, nutritive hydrogel for mesenchymal stromal cell survival and paracrine functions
Authors: Denoeud Cyprien , Luo Guotian , Paquet Joseph , Boisselier Julie , Wosinski Pauline , Moya Adrien , Diallo Ahmad , Larochette Nathanael , Marinesco Stéphane , Meiller Anne , Becquart Pierre , Moussi Hilel , Vilquin Jean-Thomas , Logeart-Avramoglou Delphine , Gand Adeline , Larreta-Garde Véronique , Pauthe Emmanuel , Potier Esther , Petite Hervé
Published: December 2023

Culture-adapted human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) are appealing candidates for regenerative medicine applications. However, these cells implanted in lesions as single cells or tissue constructs encounter an ischemic microenvironment responsible for their massive death post-transplantation, a major roadblock to successful clinical therapies. We hereby propose a paradigm shift for enhancing hMSC survival by designing, developing, and testing an enzyme-controlled, nutritive hydrogel with an inbuilt glucose delivery system for the first time. This hydrogel, composed of fibrin, starch (a polymer of glucose), and amyloglucosidase (AMG, an enzyme that hydrolyze glucose from starch), provides physiological glucose levels to fuel hMSCs via glycolysis. hMSCs loaded in these hydrogels and exposed to near anoxia (0.1% pO2) in vitro exhibited improved cell viability and angioinductive functions for up to 14 days. Most importantly, these nutritive hydrogels promoted hMSC viability and paracrine functions when implanted ectopically. Our findings suggest that local glucose delivery via the proposed nutritive hydrogel can be an efficient approach to improve hMSC-based therapeutic efficacy.
Trimer quantum spin liquid in a honeycomb array of Rydberg atoms
Authors: Kornjača Milan , Samajdar Rhine , Macrì Tommaso , Gemelke Nathan , Wang Sheng-Tao , Liu Fangli
Published: December 2023

Quantum spin liquids are elusive but paradigmatic examples of strongly correlated quantum states that are characterized by long-range quantum entanglement. Recently, signatures of a gapped topological$${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$Z2spin liquid have been observed in a system of Rydberg atoms; however, the full capability of these platforms to realize quantum spin liquids extends far beyond this state alone. Here, we propose the realization of a different class of spin liquids in a honeycomb array of Rydberg atoms. Exploring the system’s quantum phase diagram using density-matrix renormalization group and exact diagonalization calculations, we identify several density-wave-ordered phases and a trimer spin liquid ground state with an emergent U(1) × U(1) local symmetry. This liquid state originates from superpositions of classical trimer configurations on the dual triangular lattice in the regime where third-nearest-neighbor atoms lie within the Rydberg blockade radius. Finally, we discuss the conditions to enhance the preparation fidelity of this state by a general Rydberg-blockade-based projection mechanism, test the robustness of the trimer spin liquid phase in a range of realistic parameters, and outline methods for its experimental detection.
Community-based screening enhances hepatitis B virus linkage to care among West African migrants in Spain
Authors: Picchio Camila A. , Nomah Daniel K. , Rando-Segura Ariadna , Buti Maria , Lens Sabela , Forns Xavier , Tajes Sergio Rodriguez , Fernández Emma , Pamplona Portero Javier , Nuñez Carmen López , van Selm Lena , MacKinnon Marina , Araujo Silvia G. , Martró Elisa , Rodríguez-Frías Francisco , Lazarus Jeffrey V.
Published: December 2023

Background

Chronic infection with HBV is responsible for >50% of all hepatocellular cancer cases globally and disproportionately affects sub-Saharan African (sSA) countries. Migration from these countries to Europe has increased substantially in recent years, posing unique challenges to health systems. The aim of this study was to carry out a community-based intervention to increase HBV screening, vaccination, and linkage to care among sSA migrants in Catalonia, Spain.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study. Participants ≥18 years were offered community-based HBV screening between 20/11/20 and 21/01/22. Rapid HBV testing and blood sample collection utilizing plasma separation cards were carried out and linkage to care was offered to all participants. HBV vaccination and post-test counseling were performed at a second visit in the community. The main outcome was the odds of those with current HBV infection being successfully linked to hepatology. Rates of completing the care cascade of this model were analyzed.

Results

In the present study, 444 people undergo screening, with 50.6% of participants showing evidence of past or current HBV infection, including an HBsAg prevalence of 9.2%. Migrants with current HBV infection exhibit 5.2 times higher odds of successful linkage to care compared to those in need of post-test counseling or vaccination. The study achieves a successful linkage to care rate of 72% for all participants, with specialist appointments arranged within 15.5 days.

Conclusions

This community-based HBV screening program provides evidence of a successful model for identifying and providing care, including vaccination, to west African migrants at high risk of HBV infection who may otherwise not engage in care.
Ratiometric fluorescence-based and chromogenic sensors for the detection of fluoride ions and their application in real samples
Authors: Dutta Supriya , Sahana Animesh
Published: December 2023

This review discusses the colorimetric and fluorometric sensing of fluoride ions by a ratiometric approach and its applications.
Supercapacitive properties of carbazole-containing cobalt(ii) phthalocyanines/reduced graphene oxide composites
Authors: Yenilmez Hacer Yasemin , Budak Özlem , Öztürk Nazlı Farajzadeh , Koca Atıf , Boz Almila , Ustamehmetoğlu Belkıs , Altuntaş Bayır Zehra
Published: December 2023

This study presents the construction of novel hybrid electrodes of carbazole-containing cobalt(ii) phthalocyanines and reduced graphene oxide that were modified with nickel foam to improve their supercapacitive features.
In situ interface engineering of highly nitrogen-rich triazine-based covalent organic frameworks for an ultra-stable, dendrite-free lithium-metal anode
Authors: Yue Liguo , Wang Xinying , Chen Li , Shen Dijun , Shao Zhuhang , Wu Hao , Xiao Shengfu , Liang Weiquan , Yu Yaojiang , Li Yunyong
Published: December 2023

Highly N-rich triazine-based COFs as a multiple lithiophilic SEI layer is designed via in situ interface engineering, which induces uniform Li+ flux and plating/stripping, decreases the Li+ migration barrier, and suppresses Li-dendrite growth.
Curbing chlorine disinfection byproduct formation with a biomimetic FeTAML oxidation catalyst
Authors: McPherson James N. , Larsen Freja Troj , Lind Maja Juncher , Miller Christopher J. , Waite T. David , McKenzie Christine J. , Lauritsen Frants R.
Published: December 2023

An [Fe(TAML)]− catalyst boosts the oxidising power of chlorine disinfectants to clear a model organic pollutant and inhibits formation of trihalomethane disinfection byproducts.
Property enhancement of a close-spaced sublimated CdTe thin film by a post-growth activation step with CdCl2 and MgCl2
Authors: Sharmin Afrina , Mahmood Syed Shafquat , Sultana Munira , Shaikh Md Aftab Ali , Bashar Muhammad Shahriar
Published: December 2023

The activation of CdTe thin films using MgCl2 after growth demonstrates superior texture, optical characteristics, and structural properties compared to the hazardous CdCl2, particularly in the context of large-scale production.
Naphthalene–stilbenes as effective visible-light sensitizers to study the effect of diluent and nanofillers on in situ photopolymerization and 3D-VAT printing process
Authors: Tomal Wiktoria , Gałuszka Karolina , Lepcio Petr , Pilch Maciej , Chachaj-Brekiesz Anna , Korčušková Martina , Ortyl Joanna
Published: December 2023

This study presents novel photoinitiating systems based on diaryliodonium salt (IOD) and 1-amino-4-methyl-6-styrylnaphthalene-2-carbonitrile derivatives developed as universal IOD photosensitizers.
Bioelectrochemically triggered apoferritin-based bionanoreactors: synthesis of CdSe nanoparticles and monitoring with leaky waveguides
Authors: Tricase Angelo , Alhenaki Bushra , Marchianò Verdiana , Torsi Luisa , Gupta Ruchi , Bollella Paolo
Published: December 2023

Enzymatic processes, specifically laccase (Lac) catalysis, control molecular or nanomaterial synthesis within apoferritin by inducing a local pH change. Leaky waveguides technique is used for real-time monitoring of CdSe nanoparticles synthesis.
Adapted MLP-Mixer network based on crossbar arrays of fast and multilevel switching (Co–Fe–B)x(LiNbO3)100−x nanocomposite memristors
Authors: Iliasov Aleksandr I. , Matsukatova Anna N. , Emelyanov Andrey V. , Slepov Pavel S. , Nikiruy Kristina E. , Rylkov Vladimir V.
Published: December 2023

MLP-Mixer neuromorphic network based on nanocomposite memristive synapses has been developed for efficient and robust classification of images.
Exceptionally large fracture strength and stretchability of 2D ReS2 and ReSe2
Authors: Alboteanu Guy , Ya'akobovitz Assaf
Published: December 2023

We uncovered the elastic properties of two-dimensional rhenium disulfide (ReS2) and rhenium diselenide (ReSe2) and found that they are thickness-independent and can sustain large fracture strength and high stretchability.
Nitrile stabilized synthesis of pyrrolidine and piperidine derivatives via tandem alkynyl aza-Prins–Ritter reactions
Authors: Shit Sudip , Choudhury Chinmayee , Saikia Anil K.
Published: December 2023

Triflic acid-mediated protocol for the synthesis of N-(pyrrolidine-3-ylidenemethyl)acetamide and its piperidine analogue in good yields with separable Z/E isomer has been demonstrated.
Controlling the optical and magnetic properties of CdTeSe and Gd-doped CdTeSe alloy semiconductor nanocrystals
Authors: Ca N. X. , Hien N. T. , Do P. V. , Yen V. H. , Cuong K. C. , Thu P. N. , Lam L. T. , Dung L. N. , Quynh L. K. , Hao P. V.
Published: December 2023

X-ray diffraction pattern of Gd-doped CdTeSe NCs when Gd concentration changes.
Fabrication of PEDOT:PSS-based solution gated organic electrochemical transistor array for cancer cells detection
Authors: Song Qingyuan , Wang Weiyi , Liang Jinjin , Chen Chaohui , Cao Yiping , Cai Bo , Chen Bolei , He Rongxiang
Published: December 2023

In this work, we developed a simple and repeatable method to fabricate OECT array through photolithography, which can achieve uniform devices with same electrical characterization. The devices had been successfully used to detect cancer cells.
Selective FRET nano probe based on carbon dots and naphthalimide–isatin for the ratiometric detection of peroxynitrite in drug-induced liver injury
Authors: Wu Yueci , Sun Lu-Lu , Han Hai-Hao , He Xiao-Peng , Cao Weiguo , James Tony D.
Published: December 2023

Ratiometric FRET-based probe CD–N-I was developed to detect exogenous ONOO− in live cells and endogenous ONOO− in APAP-induced liver injury of HepG2 cells.
Control of liquid crystals combining surface acoustic waves, nematic flows, and microfluidic confinement
Authors: Vásquez-Montoya Gustavo A. , Emeršič Tadej , Atzin Noe , Tavera-Vázquez Antonio , Mozaffari Ali , Zhang Rui , Guzmán Orlando , Snezhko Alexey , Nealey Paul F. , de Pablo Juan J.
Published: December 2023

The combination of flow and acoustic field applied to liquid crystals in confinement induces the formation of new structures.
Digital backpropagation based on binary logarithmic step size distribution for fibre non‐linearity compensation
Authors: Dede Albert , Akowuah Emmanuel Kofi , Haxha Shyqyri
Published: December 2023

Capacity crunch has become critical in recent years as commercial communication systems approach their theoretical data rate limits. This work presents a low‐complexity digital backpropagation (DBP) implementation approach based on step size distribution that uses a binary logarithmic step size method to achieve high data rate optical transmission. The proposed scheme shows performance improvements (∆Q) of 2.36, 1.19, and 0.71 dB over linear compensation, constant step size (CSS) DBP, and logarithmic step size DBP techniques in a 2400 km 112 Gbit/s DP‐16 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) system, respectively. At 13 dBm, a high performance (Q) of 10.9 dB (BER = 2.25 × 10−4) is achieved, above the 3.80 × 10−3 hard‐decision forward error correction (HD‐FEC) limit, using the proposed scheme. Also, the allowable transmission distance is extended by 960 km at the HD‐FEC limit over the linear compensation technique. The optimization achieves a 38% saving in the number of DBP calculation steps compared to the CSS DBP, which considerably reduces the computational cost since a few steps are required for effective non‐linearity compensation.
Characterizing the ELG luminosity functions in the nearby Universe
Authors: Favole G. , Gonzalez-Perez V. , Ascasibar Y. , Corcho-Caballero P. , Montero-Dorta A. D. , Benson A. J. , Comparat J. , Cora S. A. , Croton D. , Guo H. , Izquierdo-Villalba D. , Knebe A. , Orsi Á. , Stoppacher D. , Vega-Martínez C. A.
Published: December 2023

Context. Nebular emission lines are powerful diagnostics for the physical processes at play in galaxy formation and evolution. Moreover, emission-line galaxies (ELGs) are one of the main targets of current and forthcoming spectroscopic cosmological surveys.

Aims. We investigate the contributions to the line luminosity functions (LFs) of different galaxy populations in the local Universe, providing a benchmark for future surveys of earlier cosmic epochs.

Methods. The large statistics of the observations from the SDSS DR7 main galaxy sample and the MPA-JHU spectral catalog enabled us to precisely measure the Hα, Hβ, [O II], [O III], and, for the first time, the [N II], and [S II] emission-line LFs over ∼2.4 Gyrs in the low-z Universe, 0.02 < z < 0.22. We present a generalized 1/Vmax LF estimator capable of simultaneously correcting for spectroscopic, r-band magnitude, and emission-line incompleteness. We studied the contribution to the LF of different types of ELGs classified using two methods: (i) the value of the specific star formation rate (sSFR), and (ii) the line ratios on the Baldwin–Phillips–Terlevich (BPT) and the WHAN (i.e., Hα equivalent width, EWHα, versus the [N II]/Hα line ratio) diagrams.

Results. The ELGs in our sample are mostly star forming, with 84 percent having sSFR > 10−11 yr−1. When classifying ELGs using the BPT+WHAN diagrams, we find that 63.3 percent are star forming, only 0.03 are passively evolving, and 1.3 have nuclear activity (Seyfert). The rest are low-ionization narrow emission-line regions (LINERs) and composite ELGs. We found that a Saunders function is the most appropriate to describe all of the emission-line LFs, both observed and dust-extinction-corrected (i.e., intrinsic). They are dominated by star-forming regions, except for the bright end of the [O III] and [N II] LFs (i.e., L[N II] > 1042 erg s−1, L[O III] > 1043 erg s−1), where the contribution of Seyfert galaxies is not negligible. In addition to the star-forming population, composite galaxies, and LINERs are the ones that contribute the most to the ELG numbers at L < 1041 erg s−1. We do not observe significant evolution with redshift of our ELGs at 0.02 < z < 0.22. All of our results, including data points and analytical fits, are publicly available.

Conclusions. Local ELGs are dominated by star-forming galaxies, except for the brightest [N II] and [O III] emitters, which have a large contribution of Seyfert galaxies. The local line luminosity functions are best described by Saunders functions. We expect these two conclusions to hold up at higher redshifts for the ELG targeted by current cosmological surveys, such as DESI and Euclid.
Multi-antenna probing of absorbing regions inside and outside Cassiopeia A
Authors: Stanislavsky Lev A. , Bubnov Ihor N. , Stanislavsky Aleksander A. , Zarka Philippe , Loh Alan , Viou Cédric , Konovalenko Aleksander A. , Brazhenko Anatolii I. , Frantsuzenko Anatolii V.
Published: December 2023

Context. Cassiopeia A occupies an important place among supernova remnants (SNRs) in low-frequency radio astronomy. Located in our Galaxy, this powerful radio source emits synchrotron radiation that propagates through the SNR environment and the ionized interstellar medium. The analysis of its continuum spectrum from low frequency observations reveals the evolution of the SNR absorption properties over time and suggests a method for probing unshocked ejecta and the SNR interaction with the circumstellar medium (CSM).

Aims. In this paper, we present low-frequency measurements of the integrated spectrum of Cassiopeia A to find the typical values of free-free absorption parameters towards this SNR in the middle of 2023. We also add new results to track its slowly evolving and decreasing integrated flux density.

Methods. We used the New Extension in Nançay Upgrading LOFAR (NenuFAR) and the Ukrainian Radio Interferometer of NASU (URAN–2, Poltava) for measuring the continuum spectrum of Cassiopeia A within the frequency range of 8–66 MHz. The radio flux density of Cassiopeia A relative to the calibration source, the radio galaxy Cygnus A, has been obtained on June–July, 2023 with two sub-arrays for each radio telescope, used as a two-element correlation interferometer.

Results. We measured the values of parameters such as the emission measure, electron temperature and average number of ion charges, for both the internal and external absorbing ionized gas towards Cassiopeia A from its integrated spectrum. Generally, their values are comparable to those presented in the literature, but their slight differences demonstrate the evolution of free-free absorption parameters in this SNR. Based on high accuracy of the measurements, we have detected the SNR–CSM interaction. This led to the fact that the maximum of this continuous spectrum, decreasing in intensity, changed in frequency from past higher values to lower ones over time. Probably, such changes occur periodically in which the spectral peak can move in the direction of both higher frequencies and lower ones. This effect is mainly caused by the evolution of emission measure outside Cassiopeia A.

Conclusions. The integrated flux-density spectrum of Cassiopeia A obtained with the NenuFAR and URAN–2 interferometric observations opens up new possibilities for continuous monitoring the ionized gas properties in and around Cassiopeia A to observe the evolution of unshocked ejecta and the SNR-CSM interaction in future studies.
Time-frequency diffraction acoustic modeling of the Epidaurus ancient theatre
Authors: Kaleris Konstantinos , Moiragias George , Hatziantoniou Panagiotis , Mourjopoulos John
Published: December 2023

This work provides an in-depth investigation on the effect of sound diffraction in the acoustics of the ancient theatres, with reference to the theatre of Epidaurus. It is increasingly evident that in such theaters, sound diffraction at the edges of the multiple tiers generates significant source signal amplification. Especially for the distant listener positions, an accumulation (“avalanche”) effect from lower tier diffracted energy is identified. This study examines a 3D model of an elementary slice of the seating benches (“koilon”), evaluating the generated sound field in the time, frequency, and spatial domains. The analysis accounts for direct, reflected, diffracted and mixed reflected – diffracted paths and the theatre’s acoustic response is numerically evaluated in various positions along the koilon slice, accurately matching to in-situ measurements. The contribution of the diffracted sound to the total sound field is identified through a detailed and novel analysis of energy-based acoustic parameters, via the time and frequency responses as well as of the spatial parameters relating to listener-perceived effects. In all cases, the contribution of sound diffraction components is examined via its contribution to speech intelligibility from signals generated in the theatre’s orchestra and from a virtual reconstruction of the stage-scenic building.
Agricultural Land Monitoring of Land Subsidence Area Using Spatio-Temporal Approach in East Java Indonesia 2018-2022
Authors: Aurariel Syahda Dyfany , Meliano Putri Melta , Yaseva Yosi , Yuko Nawang Wulan Putri , Fitria Putri Ratih
Published: December 2023

Java Island is the center of economy and government so that infrastructure and economic development are evenly distributed and the accessibility is high, including in East Java. As a result, East Java has become a migration destination which causes its population to continue to increase from 2018 to 2022 as it increases the chances of land conversion. As a province with high rice production, this is a challenge for East Java to maintain its rice production. A calculation was carried out to determine the carrying capacity class of East Java agricultural land in 2018 -2022 using a combined method of Odum, Christaller, Howard, and Issard. The analytical method used in this study is quantitative descriptive analysis with a spatial-temporal approach. The results showed that the carrying capacity class of East Java’s agricultural land from 2018 to 2022 continued to decline. Since 2021 there are no more areas in class I of the agricultural land carrying capacity. The lowest carrying capacity of agricultural land is in Surabaya Municipality, while the highest is Ngawi Regencies. East Java experienced a decrease in the carrying capacity of agricultural land from class II in 2018 to class III from 2019 to 2022.
Amelioration of dry land suboptimal using biochar and compost to improve soil physical properties and soybean yield
Authors: Endriani  , Listyarini Diah
Published: December 2023

The primary constraint of suboptimal soils under wet tropical regions, besides their low pH, is their low soil organic matter (SOM) content. This research aimed to improve the soil properties of dry land suboptimal and the yield of soybeans by applying biochar and compost. This research was carried out to investigate the effects of coconut shell biochar (B) and Leucaena compost (C) applied alone (at a rate of 10 ton.ha-1) or in combination (5 B: 10 C; 10 B: 15 C each. thus 10 1 B: 10 C) on soil physicochemical properties, growth, and yield of Soybean on Ultisols in Jambi Province. Biochar and compost applied alone or in combination significantly increased soil organic matter (SOM), total porosity (TP), and Aeration Pore (AP); decreased bulk density (BD) and low drainage pore (LDP). Also, combined application and single application biochar or compost to impact beneficially on soil water retention and available water (AW). Additionally, combined application and single application biochar or compost additions increased components of yield as a number of pods of soybean. The study showed that biochar applied alone or in combination with compost offers the potential to enhance soil quality and improve soybean yield.
Impact of Glyphosate Contamination on Chemical Properties of Inceptisols Amelioration with Biochar from Rice Husks, Young Coconut Waste, and Bamboo
Authors: Herviyanti Herviyanti , Maulana Amsar , Lita Arestha Leo , Harianti Mimien , Prasetyo Teguh Budi , Khurnianto Rezha Tri , Juwita Pitri , Ryswaldi Ridho , Yasin Syafrimen
Published: December 2023

Growing concerns over glyphosate herbicides, if not applied carefully, can have unintended consequences on agroecosystems. The objective of this research was to study glyphosate contamination on the chemical properties of Inceptisols ameliorated with biochar of rice husk (B-RH), young coconut waste (B-YCW), and bamboo (B-B). This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with five treatments and three replications, namely A = Control (without ameliorants and glyphosate); B = Soil + 100 mg l-1 glyphosate; and C = Soil + B-RH + 100 mg l-1 glyphosate; D = Soil + B-YCW + 100 mg l-1 glyphosate and E = Soil + B-B + 100 mg l-1 glyphosate. The results showed that contamination from glyphosate had a significant effect on surface changes (pH, EC, CEC, Mineral, and SOM) and nutrients (SOC, total N, and available P) of Inceptisols that had been improved with 40 t ha-1 biochar. The correlation and equation of linear regression between residues on glyphosate (RG) had a significant interaction with chemical properties of Inceptisols amended with biochar, namely exchangeable Ca [r=0.611* and RG=0.0232(Ca)-0.0079; R²=0.3728]. CEC [r=0.593* and RG=0.0018 (CEC)-0.0312; R²=0.3514]; available P [r=0.590* and RG=0.0061(P2O5)-0.0232; R²=0.3472] and total N [r=0.570* and RG=0.257(N)-0.0621; R²=0.4312].
The impact of water management systems and biofertilizers on soybean production in type B tidal swamp lands in Kapuas district, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Kinanti Kartika Ayu , Hidayah Utami Sri Nuryani , Widada Jaka , Sosiawan Hendri , Yusuf Wahina Anisa , Mulyawan Arif
Published: December 2023

Acid sulfate land is a land resource that can be optimized to achieve soybean selfsufficiency. Management of irrigation systems and the use of biological fertilizers play an important role in efforts to increase yields. This research aimed to determine the effect of biological fertilizer application and water management systems on soybean yields on tidal swamp land of overflow type B. The research was carried out on potential acid sulphate land of overflow type B using a Split Plot Design with the main plot, namely water management, namely the system management with trenches 20 cm deep and without trenches and subplots is the use of biological fertilizer, namely, Rhizobium sp., Mycorrhiza, Rhizobium sp. specific for acid land, Rhizobium sp. + Mycorrhiza. Management of water level without channels and without the addition of biological fertilizer for cultivating soybean plants in the dry season on type B tidal land is effective in maintaining soil pH that can be tolerated by soybean plants. There was no interaction and no significant effect of regulating the water level with ditches and adding biological fertilizer on the productivity of soybean plants due to rising water levels.
Continental vs. tropical breed: Immunity comparison under heat stress conditions utilizing qRT-PCR technique
Authors: Fajardo Roland , Kusuma Astuti Putri , Bagi Zoltán , Bodrogi Lilla , Pintér Tímea , Skoda Gabriella , Ohran Husein , Wanjala George , Kusza Szilvia
Published: December 2023

Understanding the responses of animals to seasonal heat stress on the genomic level has led to the identification of genes implicated in thermal stress reaction mechanisms. In this study, the relative gene expression of Interleukin-10 (IL-10), an anti-inflammatory cytokine and biomarker for heat stress-mediated immune modulation, was observed during the summer and winter seasons in continental and tropical sheep breeds, namely, Hungarian Indigenous Tsigai and White Dorper, employing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Temperature-humidity indices (THI) were calculated to assess heat stress levels. The results indicate that IL-10 CT-values were significantly higher during the summer, when heat stress prevails, in both sheep breeds compared to winter. While the White Dorper exhibited a higher numerical value for the summer relative gene expression ratio (16.2) compared to the Hungarian Indigenous Tsigai (12.3), no significant differences in CT values were observed between breeds or among sexes. These findings suggest the immune-adaptive characteristics of the two sheep breeds during seasonal heat stress. The variation of IL-10 gene expression levels between the two breeds can be attributed to their geographical origins; the White Dorper emerging from arid subtropical South Africa and the Hungarian Indigenous Tsigai Sheep thriving in the seasonally harsh Carpathian climate for centuries.
Morphology, Biomass Production, and Nutrient Analysis Four Napier Grass Cultivar (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach.) in Teak Tree Forest Area Megeri Village, Blora, Central Java
Authors: Sidik Prasojo Yogi , Kamal Mustafa , Roja Sukmana Arkan , Dwi Siswoko Bowo , Umami Nafiatul
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the morphology, biomass production and nutrient analysis of four cultivars of napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach.) in teak tree forest area Megeri village, Blora Regency, Central Java. Four cultivars of napier grass namely Gama Umami, Biovitas, Pakchong, and Zanzibar being cultivated in teak tree forest area. The teak tree forest area was in Kawasan Hutan Dengan Tujuan Khusus (KHDTK) UGM. Previously there was no cultivation of new improved napier grass cultivars in KHDTK. Therefore, it is interestingly to investigate the introduction and growth ability in this area. Grasses were cultivated using stem cuttings approximately 15 cm and maintained for 4 months using a completely randomized design with 4 replications for each cultivar. During the cultivation period, morphological characteristics were observed including plant height, leaf length, leaf width, and tiller numbers. Plant was harvested after 4 month of cultivation and determine for biomass production and nutritional value of grass. The morphological characteristics and nutrient analysis among napier grass cultivars showed the similar trend. Gama Umami, Biovitas, and Pakchong had significantly higher biomass production than that Zanzibar cultivar.
Improved image recognition via Synthetic Plants using 3D Modelling with Stochastic Variations
Authors: Napier Chris C. , Cook David M. , Armstrong Leisa , Diepeveen Dean
Published: December 2023

This research extends previous plant modelling using L-systems by means of a novel arrangement comprising synthetic plants and a refined global wheat dataset in combination with a synthetic inference application. The study demonstrates an application with direct recognition of real plant stereotypes, and augmentation via a plant-wide stochastic growth variation structure. The study showed that the automatic annotation and counting of wheat heads using the Global Wheat dataset images provides a time and cost saving over traditional manual approaches and neural networks. This study introduces a novel synthetic inference application using a plant-wide stochastic variation system, resulting in improved structural dataset hierarchy. The research demonstrates a significantly improved L-system that can more effectively and more accurately define and distinguish wheat crop characteristics.