bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biowaste valorization: multifunctional hybrid lignin/TiO2 nanostructures for bacterial-biocide disinfection and dye removal
Authors: Gallo Marica , Venezia Virginia , Muscetta Marica , Grappa Rossella , Verrillo Mariavittoria , Landi Gianluca , Marotta Raffaele , Luciani Giuseppina
Published: April 2024

Hybrid lignin TiO2 nanoparticles: red-ox activity enables biocide disinfection and dye removal.
Identification of chalcone analogues as anti-inflammatory agents through the regulation of NF-κB and JNK activation
Authors: Zhang Die , Wang Wenping , Ou Huiping , Ning Jinhua , Zhou Yingxun , Ke Jin , Hou Anguo , Chen Linyun , Li Peng , Ma Yunshu , Jin Wen Bin
Published: April 2024

To develop new anti-inflammatory agents with improved pharmaceutical profiles, a series of chalcone analogues were designed and synthesized. The figure was drawn by Figdraw (http://www.figdraw.com).
An immobilized Schiff base–Mn complex as a hybrid magnetic nanocatalyst for green synthesis of biologically active [4,3-d]pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-6-ones
Authors: Bodaghifard Mohammad Ali , Pourmousavi Seied Ali , Ahadi Najmieh , Zeynali Payam
Published: April 2024

Fe3O4@SiO2@Mn-complex was successfully prepared and utilized in the synthesis of biologically active pyridopyrimidinones in an aqueous medium, providing environmentally friendly conditions.
Asymmetric [3 + 2] cycloaddition of donor–acceptor cyclopropanes with azadienes enabled by Brønsted base catalysis
Authors: Li Shu , Dong Zhi-Hong , Dan Si-Yu , Zheng Mei-Jun , Long Teng , Zhan Jie , Zhou Qing , Chu Wen-Dao , Liu Quan-Zhong
Published: April 2024

A chiral bifunctional Brønsted base-catalyzed enantioselective [3 + 2] cycloaddition of D–A cyclopropanes and azadienes is reported. The protocol features broad substrate scope, mild reaction conditions and high functional group tolerance.
Integrated hybrid modeling and SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) to predict and explain the adsorption properties of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) porous materials
Authors: Ma Kangyong
Published: April 2024

As a novel type of oil–water separation material, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) porous material exhibits many excellent properties such as low density, high specific surface area, and outstanding oil–water separation performance.
Synthesis of hydrazone-based polyhydroquinoline derivatives – antibacterial activities, α-glucosidase inhibitory capability, and DFT study
Authors: Ismail Muhammad , Ahmad Rashid , Halim Sobia Ahsan , Khan Adnan Ali , Ullah Saeed , Latif Abdul , Ahmad Manzoor , Khan Ajmal , Ozdemir Fethi Ahmet , Khalid Asaad , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Ali Mumtaz
Published: April 2024

Hydrazone-based polyhydroquinoline derivatives are synthesized and characterized through modern spectroscopic techniques, compounds showed high potency and inhibitory activity. Molecular docking and DFT analyses were performed to predict structure activity relationship, electronic properties etc.
Pressure-induced electronic to ionic phase transition and recurrence of ferroelectricity in PbTiO3
Authors: Zhang Xin , Mu Caoyuan , Han Yonghao , Liu Xue , Liu Hao , Jiang Dawei , Han Muyun , Wang Jia , Zhao Lin
Published: April 2024

A pressure-induced transition from electronic conduction to ionic conduction was observed in polycrystalline PbTiO3, accompanied by the disappearance and reappearance of ferroelectricity.
A case study of the impact of carbon emissions and inflation on nonlinear dense neutrosophic fuzzy inventory system of varying demand with delayed deterioration
Authors: Pal Shilpi , Chakraborty Avishek , Mahapatra Ghanshaym Singha
Published: April 2024

In a comprehensive consensus, humans should reduce carbon emissions on the way to minimise the adverse effects of global warming. Manufacturing firms contribute a significant amount of carbon emissions to the environment. This article examines the impact of carbon emissions on non-instantaneously degrading commodities with price-dependent demand and advertisements since many nations are implementing emission reduction policies. The paper also focuses on the effects of inflation, where shortages are partially backlogged and partially lost in sales. This paper develops a new concept of non-linear triangular dense neutrosophic numbers with its basic properties. Further, the classifications of symmetry and asymmetry are introduced, and thereafter De-neutrosophication technique is applied for crispification. Since the effect of some parameters like carbon emissions, advertising, and inflation are uncertain, we have considered it in this new form described above to grab the uncertain characters of the underlying parameters. The classification of the uncertain parameter based on the symmetric and asymmetric nature and linear-nonlinear nature of triangular dense neutrosophic numbers have also been investigated here. Additionally, the effect of the model is examined under different situations for both linear and non-linear triangular dense fuzzy, dense intuitionistic, and dense neutrosophic. Finally, a numerical example is considered to illustrate the model, and it is observed that the model is optimum when the parameters are considered in Asymmetric Convex Non-Linear numbers for a shorter replenishment cycle. Also, a comparative study has been done by performing sensitivity analysis through the case study and provides managerial insight into this outcome.
Observation of a Brillouin dynamic grating in silicon nitride waveguides
Authors: Botter Roel , van den Hoogen Jasper , Mishra Akhileshwar , Ye Kaixuan , van Rees Albert , Hoekman Marcel , Boller Klaus , Marpaung David
Published: April 2024

Brillouin enhanced four wave mixing in the form of a Brillouin dynamic grating (BDG) enables a uniquely tunable filter whose properties can be tuned by purely optical means. This makes the BDG a valuable tool in microwave photonics (MWP). BDGs have been studied extensively in fibers, but the only observation in an integrated platform required exotic materials. Unlocking BDG in a standard and mature platform will enable its integration into large-scale circuits. Here, we demonstrate the first observation of a BDG in a silicon nitride (Si3N4) waveguide. We also present a new and optimized design, which will enhance the BDG response of the waveguide, unlocking the path to large-scale integration into MWP circuits.
Theoretical study on Mα transition parameters of He-like to C-like cobalt ions
Authors: Wang Su , Deng Banglin , Qiao Jiarui , Yang Rui , Zhang Guosheng
Published: April 2024

The multi-configuration Dirac–Hartree–Fock method is employed to investigate the Mα transitions of He-like to C-like Co ions. This study encompasses various parameters, such as energy levels, wavelengths, transition rates, oscillator strengths, and line strengths. The Breit interaction, vacuum polarization, and self-energy corrections were included in the computation of energy levels. The computed results we obtained align well with both experimental and theoretical findings. The differences for most energy levels, transition wavelengths, and oscillator strengths are all below 0.6%, 0.8%, and 20%, respectively. The uncertainty estimation method of the transitions of line strength is evaluated using quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods. The resulting accurate and consistent MCDHF data are expected to be useful for theoretical research on cobalt ions.
A modified CFD-DEM method for accurate prediction of the minimum fluidization velocity
Authors: He Xuan , Yu Yaxiong , Xie Zhouzun , Zhou Qiang
Published: April 2024

Monodisperse fluidized bed experiments have been carried out on 13 kinds of particles with different particle sizes in a cylindrical fluidized bed. The accuracy of nine commonly used monodisperse drag models, including the Gidsapow, BVK, and Zhou–Fan models is verified. It is found that the Zhou–Fan model is the most accurate at low and moderate values of the particle Reynolds number. It is found that with the traditional computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD-DEM) method it is difficult to obtain an accurate minimum fluidization velocity owing to difficulty in obtaining an accurate value of the minimum fluidization solid volume fraction. A modified method is proposed to increase the accuracy of prediction of the minimum fluidized solid volume fraction by using a virtual particle size in the calculation of the particle collision process. The effectiveness of the modified method is verified by comparing the CFD-DEM simulation results with experimental results for Geldart-D particles. The relative error of the minimum fluidization velocity is found to be reduced from 24.6% to 2%.
Effects of detection-beam focal offset on back-focal-plane displacement detection
Authors: Chen Anni , Li Guofeng , Luo Hui , Chen Zhijie , Feng Haining , Kuang Tengfang , an Hui , Han Xiang , Xiong Wei , Xiao Guangzong
Published: April 2024

High-resolution displacement detection can be achieved by analyzing the scattered light of the trapping beams from the particle in optical tweezers. In some applications where trapping and detecting beams must be separated, a detecting beam can be introduced for independent displacement measurement. However, the detecting beam focus possibly deviates from the center of the particle, which will affect the performance of displacement detection. Here, we detect the displacement of the particle by utilizing the forward scattered light of the detection beam from the particle. The effects of the lateral and axial offsets between the detection beam focus and the particle center on displacement detection are analyzed by the simulation and experiment. These results show that the lateral offsets will decrease the detection sensitivity and linear range. Moreover, it aggravates the crosstalk between the x-direction signal and the y-direction signal of the quadrant photodiode. Besides, the axial offsets also affect the detection sensitivity. More interestingly, an optimal axial offset can improve the sensitivity of displacement detection substantially. In addition, the influence of system parameters, such as particle radius a, numerical aperture of the condenser NAc, and numerical aperture of the objective NAo, on the optimal axial offset is also discussed. This work not only provides ideas for improving the performance of precision measurement by the method of forward scattered light detection but also expands the application of this method in fundamental physics.
An organic artificial soma for spatio-temporal pattern recognition via dendritic integration
Authors: Di Lauro Michele , Rondelli Federico , De Salvo Anna , Corsini Alessandro , Genitoni Matteo , Greco Pierpaolo , Murgia Mauro , Fadiga Luciano , Biscarini Fabio
Published: April 2024

A novel organic neuromorphic device performing pattern classification is presented and demonstrated. It features an artificial soma capable of dendritic integration from three pre-synaptic neurons. The time-response of the interface between electrolytic solutions and organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors is proposed as the sole computational feature for pattern recognition, and it is easily tuned in the organic dendritic integrator by simply controlling electrolyte ionic strength. The classifier is benchmarked in speech-recognition experiments, with a sample of 14 words, encoded either from audio tracks or from kinematic data, showing excellent discrimination performances in a planar, miniaturizable, fully passive device, designed to be promptly integrated in more complex architectures where on-board pattern classification is required.
Elevated interleukin 8 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels are associated with myocardial pathology in users of anabolic-androgenic steroids
Authors: Gregersen Ida , Scarth Morgan Elizabeth , Abdullah Rang , Thorsby Per Medbøe , Hauger Lisa E , Haugaa Kristina H , Sagen Ellen Lund , Michelsen Annika E , Ueland Thor , Edvardsen Thor , Aukrust Pål , Almaas Vibeke Marie , Bjørnebekk Astrid Kristine , Halvorsen Bente
Published: April 2024

Aims

In the current paper, we aim to explore the effect of both current and former long-term anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use on regulation of systemic inflammatory markers and mediators of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling and their association with hormones and echocardiographic myocardial pathology in weightlifters.

Methods and results

In a cross-sectional study, 93 weightlifting AAS users, of whom 62 were current and 31 were past users, with at least 1-year cumulative AAS use (mean 11 ± 7 accumulated years of AAS use), were compared with 54 non-using weightlifting controls (WLCs) using clinical interview, blood pressure measurements, and echocardiography. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interferon (IFN)-γ, growth differentiation factor (GDF)-15, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, sex hormones, and lipids were analysed. It was found that serum levels of IL-8, GDF-15, and MMP-9 were significantly increased in current AAS users compared with former users and WLCs. Matrix metalloproteinase 9, but not IL-8, correlated consistently with sex hormone levels, and sex hormone levels correlated consistently with mean wall thickness, in current users. Moreover, HDL cholesterol was significantly lower in current vs. former AAS users and significantly inversely correlated with MMP-9 in current users. Further, in current users, MMP-9 and IL-8 correlated with markers of myocardial strain, and MMP-9 also correlated with indices of cardiac mass, which was not seen in former users. Mediation analyses suggested that MMP-9 could partly explain hormone-induced alterations in markers of myocardial damage in current users.

Conclusion

Long-term AAS is associated with increased levels of markers of inflammation and ECM remodelling, which seems to have a hormone-dependent (MMP-9) and a hormone-independent (IL-8) association with markers of myocardial dysfunction.
Meeting report ‘Microbiology 2023: from single cell to microbiome and host’, an international interacademy conference in Würzburg
Authors: Cossart Pascale , Hacker Jörg , Holden David H , Normark Staffan , Vogel Jörg
Published: April 2024

On September 20–22 September 2023, the international conference ‘Microbiology 2023: from single cell to microbiome and host’ convened microbiologists from across the globe for a very successful symposium, showcasing cutting-edge research in the field. Invited lecturers delivered exceptional presentations covering a wide range of topics, with a major emphasis on phages and microbiomes, on the relevant bacteria within these ecosystems, and their multifaceted roles in diverse environments. Discussions also spanned the intricate analysis of fundamental bacterial processes, such as cell division, stress resistance, and interactions with phages. Organized by four renowned Academies, the German Leopoldina, the French Académie des sciences, the Royal Society UK, and the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, the symposium provided a dynamic platform for experts to share insights and discoveries, leaving participants inspired and eager to integrate new knowledge into their respective projects. The success of Microbiology 2023 prompted the decision to host the next quadrennial academic meeting in Sweden. This choice underscores the commitment to fostering international collaboration and advancing the frontiers of microbiological knowledge. The transition to Sweden promises to be an exciting step in the ongoing global dialogue and specific collaborations on microbiology, a field where researchers will continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, understanding, and innovation not only in health and disease but also in ecology.
Effectiveness of intraoperative endoscopic evaluation in aortic valve repair with valve-sparing aortic root replacement: a comparison of short- and mid-term results
Authors: Yamashita Go , Nakano Jota , Sugaya Atsushi , Sakai Jiro , Hirao Shingo , Komiya Tatsuhiko
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

Valve-sparing aortic root replacement requires expertise to predict repair results and prevent secondary aortic clamping for valve repair or replacement secondary to aortic valve insufficiency. Thus, intraoperative evaluation of the aortic valve using diastolic pressure at the aortic root may be helpful. The goal of this retrospective study was to compare the early and mid-term results of aortic valve repair with those of valve-sparing aortic root replacement using intraoperative endoscopic evaluation.

METHODS

We included 158 patients who underwent aortic valve repair with valve-sparing aortic root replacement at our hospital between December 2003 and January 2022. The patients were divided into a non-endoscopic evaluation group (group NE, n = 97; mean age 55 years) and an endoscopic evaluation group (group E, n = 61; mean age 51 years).

RESULTS

The incidence of a second aortic clamping for aortic valve insufficiency was significantly greater in group NE (17.5%) than in group E (1.6%; P = 0.002). The presence of none or trivial aortic valve insufficiency on transthoracic echocardiography at discharge in group E (87.6%) was significantly lower than in group NE (98.4%; P = 0.017). No significant difference in the cumulative incidence of recurrence of moderate AI (P = 0.47), hospitalization for heart failure (P = 0.84) and reoperation (P = 0.25) between groups NE and E.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative endoscopic evaluation during aortic valve repair with valve-sparing aortic root replacement correlated with a lower incidence of second aortic clamping because of aortic valve insufficiency and effective aortic valve insufficiency control.
Digitally planned surgical crown lengthening: a novel bone reduction strategy to correct a gummy smile
Authors: Cong Nguyen Thai , Nam Pham Hoai , Viet Hoang , Marya Anand
Published: April 2024

This report describes the bone reduction guide which was digitally obtained to improve diagnosis, treatment outcome and follow-up. Treatment of gingival smiles due to altered passive eruption should include interdisciplinary planning and smile design to facilitate the prediction of treatment outcome. Crown lengthening surgery can be supported by digital tools to improve surgical planning and follow-up. A 30-year-old female patient was referred to a private dental clinic seeking solutions for her gingival smile. Based on the anatomical crown length, a smile design was created, and the patient was presented with a simulated smile before treatment. In the surgical phase, a full-thickness flap was raised in the upper jaw to achieve the desired outcome. Using cone-beam computed tomography to determine cementoenamel junction for smile design and treatment planning brings many benefits. Patients and clinicians can foresee treatment results. From there, appropriate changes can be made. The bone reduction guide is designed to rest on the bone to help the clinician cut the bone accurately and thoroughly follow the established plan.
A correct-by-construction approach for development of reliable planning problems
Authors: Ammar Sabrine , Sakka Rouis Taoufik , Bhiri Mohamed Tahar
Published: April 2024

The automated planning community has developed a defacto standard planning language called PDDL. Using the PDDL tools, the reliability of PDDL descriptions can only be posterior examined. However, the Event-B method supports a rich refinement technique that is mathematically proven. Indeed, the Event-B method relies on a first-order predicates language and sets (including mathematical functions and relations) to model the data and on a simple action language to model the treatments. A model described in Event-B includes static modeling elements (sets, constants, axioms and theorems) and dynamic modeling elements (variables, invariant properties and events). Moreover, the Event-B method allows the step-by-step correct construction of Event-B models. To specify and solve the planning problems, a development process based on the combination of Event-B and PDDL is proposed. Our development process favors the obtaining of reliable PDDL description from an ultimate Event-B model using our Event-B2PDDL Eclipse plugin. Our process is successfully experimented on the sliding puzzle game.
Properties and predicted functions of large genes and proteins of apicomplexan parasites
Authors: Fang Tiffany , Mohseni Amir , Lonardi Stefano , Ben Mamoun Choukri
Published: April 2024

Evolutionary constraints greatly favor compact genomes that efficiently encode proteins. However, several eukaryotic organisms, including apicomplexan parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium falciparum and Babesia duncani, the causative agents of toxoplasmosis, malaria and babesiosis, respectively, encode very large proteins, exceeding 20 times their average protein size. Although these large proteins represent <1% of the total protein pool and are generally expressed at low levels, their persistence throughout evolution raises important questions about their functions and possible evolutionary pressures to maintain them. In this study, we examined the trends in gene and protein size, function and expression patterns within seven apicomplexan pathogens. Our analysis revealed that certain large proteins in apicomplexan parasites harbor domains potentially important for functions such as antigenic variation, erythrocyte invasion and immune evasion. However, these domains are not limited to or strictly conserved within large proteins. While some of these proteins are predicted to engage in conventional metabolic pathways within these parasites, others fulfill specialized functions for pathogen–host interactions, nutrient acquisition and overall survival.
Elasticity meets topology
Authors: Ma Guancong
Published: April 2024

Harnessing the unique vectorial properties of elastic waves, Wu et al. find new degrees of freedom for realizing novel topological phases.
A learning theory of meta learning
Authors: Yao Fang
Published: April 2024

This paper gives a brief introduction to recent theoretical advance of meta learning.
Long-term Oral Suppressive Antimicrobial Therapy in Infective Endocarditis (SATIE Study): An Observational Study
Authors: Beaumont Anne-Lise , Mestre Femke , Decaux Sixtine , Bertin Chloé , Duval Xavier , Iung Bernard , Rouzet François , Grall Nathalie , Para Marylou , Thy Michael , Deconinck Laurène
Published: April 2024

Background

The role of suppressive antimicrobial therapy (SAT) in infective endocarditis (IE) management has yet to be defined. The objective of this study was to describe the use of SAT in an IE referral center and the patients’ outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study in a French IE referral center (Paris). All patients with IE who received SAT between 2016 and 2022 were included.

Results

Forty-two patients were included (36 male [86%]; median age [interquartile range {IQR}], 73 [61–82] years). The median Charlson Comorbidity Index score (IQR) was 3 (1–4). Forty patients (95%) had an intracardiac device. The most frequent microorganisms were Enterococcus faecalis (15/42, 36%) and Staphylococcus aureus (12/42, 29%). SAT indications were absence of surgery despite clinical indication (28/42, 67%), incomplete removal of prosthetic material (6/42, 14%), uncontrolled infection source (4/42, 10%), persistent abnormal uptake on nuclear imaging (1/42, 2%), or a combination of the previous indications (3/42, 7%). Antimicrobials were mainly doxycycline (19/42, 45%) and amoxicillin (19/42, 45%). The median follow-up time (IQR) was 398 (194–663) days. Five patients (12%) experienced drug adverse events. Five patients (12%) presented with a second IE episode during follow-up, including 2 reinfections (different bacterial species) and 3 possible relapses (same bacterial species). Fourteen patients (33%) in our cohort died during follow-up. Overall, the 1-year survival rate was 84.3% (73.5%–96.7%), and the 1-year survival rate without recurrence was 74.1% (61.4%–89.4%).

Conclusions

SAT was mainly prescribed to patients with cardiac devices because of the absence of surgery despite clinical indication. Five (12%) breakthrough second IE episodes were reported. Prospective comparative studies are required to guide this empirical practice.
On Turbans, Abayas, and Colanders: The Scope of Religious Dress in a Pluralistic Society
Authors: El Yattouti Naoual
Published: April 2024

This article scrutinizes the ongoing European debate surrounding religious attire, particularly in the context of legal restrictions and requests for accommodation. The core inquiry revolves around the ambiguous definition of ‘religious dress’, encompassing both prescribed attire and symbols with religious significance. Beyond conventional religious garments that are generally legally accepted, the article delves into the contentious classification of cultural styles, as seen recently with the ban on abayas and qamis in French public schools, and the exemptions for ‘religious dress’ claimed by adherents to mock religions such as Pastafarianism. Acknowledging the contested nature of defining religion, the article examines the potential necessity for legal definitions, emphasizing their role in determining both recognition and limitations. The study navigates the European legal framework, drawing insights from supranational sources and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights to unravel the intricacies, challenges, and implications of regulating religion and religious dress in Europe.
Transfer learning for galaxy feature detection: Finding giant star-forming clumps in low-redshift galaxies using Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Popp Jürgen J , Dickinson Hugh , Serjeant Stephen , Walmsley Mike , Adams Dominic , Fortson Lucy , Mantha Kameswara , Mehta Vihang , Dawson James M , Kruk Sandor , Simmons Brooke
Published: April 2024

Giant star-forming clumps (GSFCs) are areas of intensive star-formation that are commonly observed in high-redshift (z ≳ 1) galaxies but their formation and role in galaxy evolution remain unclear. Observations of low-redshift clumpy galaxy analogues are rare but the availability of wide-field galaxy survey data makes the detection of large clumpy galaxy samples much more feasible. Deep Learning (DL), and in particular Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), have been successfully applied to image classification tasks in astrophysical data analysis. However, one application of DL that remains relatively unexplored is that of automatically identifying and localizing specific objects or features in astrophysical imaging data. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of DL-based object detection models to localize GSFCs in astrophysical imaging data. We apply the Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Network object detection framework (FRCNN) to identify GSFCs in low-redshift (z ≲ 0.3) galaxies. Unlike other studies, we train different FRCNN models on observational data that was collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and labelled by volunteers from the citizen science project ‘Galaxy Zoo: Clump Scout’. The FRCNN model relies on a CNN component as a ‘backbone’ feature extractor. We show that CNNs, that have been pre-trained for image classification using astrophysical images, outperform those that have been pre-trained on terrestrial images. In particular, we compare a domain-specific CNN – ‘Zoobot’ – with a generic classification backbone and find that Zoobot achieves higher detection performance. Our final model is capable of producing GSFC detections with a completeness and purity of ≥0.8 while only being trained on ∼5000 galaxy images.
Evaluating the effects of benzoic acid on nursery and finishing pig growth performance
Authors: Gaffield Katelyn N , Bromm Jenna J , DeRouchey Joel M , Tokach Mike D , Woodworth Jason C , Goodband Robert D , Berg Kiah M , De Jong Jon A , Pohlen Courtney L , Gebhardt Jordan T
Published: April 2024

Three studies were conducted evaluating the use of benzoic acid in swine diets. In experiment 1, 350 weanling barrows (DNA 200 × 400; initially 5.9 ± 0.04 kg) were allotted to one of the five dietary treatments with 14 pens per treatment. Diets were fed in three phases: phase 1 from weaning to day 10, phase 2 from days 10 to 18, and phase 3 from days 18 to 38. Treatment 1 contained no benzoic acid throughout all three phases (weaning to day 42). Treatment 2 included 0.50% benzoic acid throughout all three phases. Treatment 3 contained 0.50% benzoic acid in phases 1 and 2, and 0.25% benzoic acid in phase 3. Treatment 4 contained 0.50% benzoic acid in phases 1 and 2, and no benzoic acid in phase 3. Treatment 5 contained 0.50% benzoic acid in phase 1, 0.25% benzoic acid in phase 2, and no benzoic acid in phase 3. For the overall period, pigs fed 0.50% in the first two phases and 0.25% benzoic acid in the final phase had greater (P < 0.05) average daily gain (average daily gain) than pigs fed no benzoic acid through all three phases, or pigs fed 0.50% in the first two phases and no benzoic acid in the final phase, with pigs fed the other treatments intermediate. Pigs fed 0.50% in the first two phases and 0.25% benzoic acid in the final phase had improved (P < 0.05) gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) compared with pigs fed no benzoic acid throughout all three phases, pigs fed 0.50% in the first two phases and no benzoic acid in the third phase, or pigs fed 0.50%, 0.25%, and no benzoic acid, respectively. For experiment 2, a 101-d trial was conducted using two groups of 1,053 finishing pigs (2,106 total pigs; PIC 337 × 1,050; initially 33.3 ± 1.9 kg). Dietary treatments were corn–soybean meal-dried distillers grains with solubles-based with the addition of none, 0.25%, or 0.50% benzoic acid. Overall, pigs fed increasing benzoic acid had a tendency for increased average daily feed intake (linear, P = 0.083) but decreased G:F (linear, P < 0.05). In experiment 3, 2,162 finishing pigs (DNA 600 × PIC 1050; initially 31.4 ± 2.2 kg) were used in a 109-d trial. Dietary treatments were formulated with or without 0.25% benzoic acid. For the overall experimental period, pigs fed benzoic acid had increased (P < 0.05) G:F. In summary, feeding benzoic acid elicits improved growth performance when fed throughout the entire nursery period while improved G:F in growing-finishing pigs was observed in one experiment, but not in the other.
A Tale of Two Tumors: A Collision Tumor of Atypical Fibroxanthoma and Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Dhaliwal Dilshad , Sayyadioskoie Shannon , Siatecka Hanna , Hunt Christine , Diwan A. Hafeez
Published: April 2024

A collision tumor is an infrequent phenomenon characterized by the presence of 2 histologically distinct tumor types (either benign or malignant) occurring within the same specific anatomical site. We describe a rare case of co-occurrence of basal cell carcinoma and atypical fibroxanthoma presenting as a single lesion on the scalp in a 76-year-old man. The lesion was clinically suspicious for basal cell carcinoma and biopsied. Histologic examination showed 2 distinct tumors, one with basaloid cells and the other one with pleomorphic spindle cells colliding and growing together. Immunohistochemical stains were crucial in establishing the diagnosis. This presentation is exceedingly rare and requires additional evaluation for diagnosis.
Social Determinants of Health and Glaucoma Screening and Detection in the SIGHT Studies
Authors: Newman-Casey Paula Anne , Hark Lisa A. , Lu Ming-Chen , Nghiem Van Thi Ha , Swain Thomas , McGwin Gerald , Sapru Saloni , Girkin Christopher , Owsley Cynthia
Published: April 2024

Précis:

Targeted glaucoma screenings in populations with high levels of poverty and high proportions of people who identify as African American or Hispanic/Latino identified a 27% rate of glaucoma and suspected glaucoma, which is 3 times the national average.

Purpose:

To describe the neighborhood-level social risk factors across the 3 SIGHT Study sites and assess potential characteristics of these populations to help other researchers effectively design and implement targeted glaucoma community-based screening and follow-up programs in high-risk groups.

Methods/Results:

In 2019, Columbia University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham each received 5 years of CDC funding to test a wide spectrum of targeted telehealth delivery methods to detect glaucoma in community-based health delivery settings among high-risk populations. This collaborative initiative supported innovative strategies to better engage populations most at risk and least likely to have access to eye care to detect and manage glaucoma and other eye diseases in community-based settings. Among the initial 2379 participants enrolled in all 3 SIGHT Studies; 27% screened positive for glaucoma/glaucoma suspect. Of all SIGHT Study participants, 91% were 40 years of age and older, 64% identified as female, 60% identified as African-American, 32% identified as White, 19% identified as Hispanic/Latino, 53% had a high school education or less, 15% had no health insurance, and 38% had Medicaid insurance. Targeted glaucoma screenings in populations with high levels of poverty and high proportions of people who identify as African American or Hispanic/Latino identified a 27% rate of glaucoma and suspected glaucoma, three times the national average.

Conclusion:

These findings were consistent across each of the SIGHT Studies, which are located in 3 geographically distinct US locations in rural Alabama, small urban locations in Michigan, and urban New York City.
Comparative analysis of holmium: YAG laser internal urethrotomy versus Cold-Knife optical internal urethrotomy in the management of urethral stricture – a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chi Junpeng , Lou Keyuan , Feng Guoyan , Song Shizhang , Lu Youyi , Wu Jitao , Cui Yuanshan
Published: April 2024

Objective:

Urethral stricture management has posed enduring challenges in urology, demanding innovative and effective treatment modalities. This study addresses the persistent issues associated with urethral strictures, focusing on the comparative evaluation of two contemporary treatment modalities: Ho: YAG Laser Internal Urethrotomy (HIU) and Cold Knife Optical Internal Urethrotomy (CIU).

Methods:

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ResearchGate was conducted to identify relevant studies up to November 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed comparative studies evaluating HIU and CIU in patients with urethral stricture. Data extraction, quality assessment, and subgroup analyses were performed using standardized methods. Outcome measures included preoperative and postoperative mean the maximum urine flow rate (Qmax), mean surgical time, recurrence rates, and perioperative complications.

Results:

Nine articles met the inclusion criteria, and their data were analyzed using RevMan 5.4.1. Forest plots were generated for preoperative and postoperative mean Qmax, mean surgical time, recurrence rates, and perioperative complications. While postoperative mean Qmax (MD −0.06; 95% CI: −0.28–0.16; P=0.60, I
2=75%) and mean surgical time (MD 2.16; 95% CI: −1.66–5.99; P=0.27, I
2=98%) showed no significant differences between HIU and CIU, a trend towards lower recurrence rates (RR 0.71; 95% CI: 0.48–1.06; P=0.09, I
2=46%) was observed with HIU but without statistical significance. Perioperative complications, particularly bleeding (RR 0.21; 95% CI: 0.08–0.53; P=0.001, I
2=0%), favored HIU over CIU. The subanalysis indicates that for the treatment of complex urethral strictures, the two surgical methods differ in terms of mean Qmax at 6 months postoperatively (MD −2.51; 95% CI: −4.10–−0.91; P=0.002, I
2=59%) and 12 months postoperatively (MD 2.62; 95% CI: 0.93–4.30; P=0.002, I
2=0%). The HIU group shows a significant decrease in recurrence rate at 12 months postoperatively (RR 0.44; 95% CI: 0.21–0.92; P=0.03, I
2=0%). For short-segment urethral strictures with a length ≤1.5 cm, CIU had a shorter operative time compared to the HIU (MD 4.49; 95% CI: 3.87–5.10; P<0.00001, I
2=44%).

Conclusion:

Overall, both interventions demonstrated similar efficacy in improving postoperative mean Qmax, mean surgical time, and recurrence rates. However, subanalysis indicates that in the short-term, CIU is more effective than HIU in improving Qmax after complex urethral stricture surgery. In long-term Qmax follow-up after surgery, HIU is significantly higher than CIU, and HIU has a low recurrence rate. In addition, for short-segment urethral stricture (≤1.5 cm), CIU requires less time. In terms of complications, HIU has a lower risk of bleeding.
Amelioration of NAFLD by sleeve gastrectomy-triggered hepatocyte regeneration in mice – experimental research
Authors: Yu Tianming , Ma Xiaomin , Cheng Yang , Wang Zeyu , Zhang Guangyong , Ding Huanxin , Yin Jialuo , Wang Yifei , Hu Sanyuan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is known to alleviate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and restore liver function; however, its underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Materials and methods:

We investigated the effect of SG on the metabolic phenotype of diet-induced obese (DIO) mice. Postoperative stained liver images were analyzed to determine the hepatocyte proliferation phenotype. Single-cell RNA sequencing was used to characterize the regeneration signals of the liver after SG in DIO mice, and real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR was performed to verify the above results. We employed Olink proteomics to capture serum element changes and investigated the role of Yes1 protein in liver regeneration and carcinogenesis through the Hippo–YAP pathway. DIO mice were treated with YAP inhibitor verteporfin after SG mice to clarify whether SG-induced liver regeneration is related to the YAP signaling pathway.

Results:

SG significantly reduced NAFLD-associated dysfunction in hepatocytes and replaced them with fully functional hepatocytes, which have a high regenerative capacity across the entire liver. SG also enhanced the hepatic regenerative capacity, as demonstrated by SG combined with hepatic lobectomy in healthy mice. Yes1 protein was identified as the signaling molecule most closely related to classical regeneration signals. Our study showed that SG-enhanced proliferation and improved metabolism did not depend on YAP signaling.

Conclusion:

SG can enhance hepatic regenerative capacity and improve liver metabolism. This study provides a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying SG-induced metabolic improvements.
Isoptericola luteus sp. nov., a novel yellow bacterium isolated from soil
Authors: Bing Hui , Ling Ling , Gu Jinzhao , Cai Yang , Zhang Yance , Cui Lijie , Li Ailin , Kong Xinyu , Luo Yanfang , Xiang Wensheng , Zhao Junwei
Published: April 2024

An aerobic, non-motile, Gram-stain-positive bacterium, designated strain NEAU-Y5T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang province. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain NEAU-Y5T belonged to the genus and showed high 16S rRNA sequence similarity to Isoptericola variabilis (98.9 %), Isoptericola nanjingensis (98.9 %), Isoptericola cucumis (98.5 %), Isoptericola hypogeus (98.5 %), Isoptericola dokdonensis (98.5 %), Isoptericola jiangsuensis (98.3 %), and Isoptericola halalbus (98.1 %), followed by other members of the genus Isoptericola (<98 %), and phylogenetically clustered with I. dokdonensis and I. jiangsuensis. Strain NEAU-Y5T was found to grow at 4–40 °C (optimum, 28 °C), pH 6.0–12.0 (optimum, pH 7.0), and tolerated 0–6 % NaCl (w/v). The cell-wall peptidoglycan type was l-Lys–d-Asp. The whole-cell hydrolysates contained glucose, galactose, and ribose. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, hydroxyphosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside, and glucosamine unknown phospholipid. Major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H4). The DNA G+C content was 73.4 mol%. The digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values between strain NEAU-Y5T and the type strains of the genus Isoptericola ranged from 18.6 to 23.5 % and from 77.3 to 81.6 %, respectively. Based on morphological, physiological, chemotaxonomic, and phylogenetic data, as well as digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values, the novel strain NEAU-Y5T could be differentiated from its closest relatives. Therefore, the strain represents a novel species of the genus Isoptericola, for which the name Isoptericola luteus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is NEAU-Y5T (=CCTCC AA 2019087T=DSM 110637T).
Caspase-8-mediated CYLD Cleavage boosts LPS-induced Endotoxic Shock
Authors: Liu Jianling , Li Ming , Xing Mingyan , Liu Han , Wu Xiaoxia , Wang Lingxia , Li XiaoMing , Zhao Xiaoming , Ou Yangjing , Zhang Yue , Li Fang , Xie Qun , Tan Yongchang , Wang YangYang , Xie YangYang , Zhang Hanwen , Li Hong , Li Yu , Luo Yan , Zhang Haibing
Published: April 2024

Caspase-8, a pivotal protease intricately involved in various cellular signaling pathways related to cell death and inflammation, has been identified as a contributor to cytokine production during septic shock. However, the mechanisms governing this regulatory role remain enigmatic. In this study, we uncovered that mice harboring a specific mutation in CYLD at its D215 position (CyldD215A/D215Amutant mice), rendering CYLD resistant to caspase8 cleavage, exhibited marked protection against lethal endotoxic shock. Moreover, the removal ofCyldinCaspase8-/-Mlkl-/-mice restored their sensitivity to endotoxic shock, indicating Caspase8 promotes LPS-induced endotoxic shock by cleaving its substrate CYLD and maintaining CYLD stability confers resistance to endotoxic shock. Mechanistically, CYLD was found to catalyze the removal of LUBAC-mediated M1-linked ubiquitination of NF-kB p65 at K301/K303, thereby suppressing the nuclear translocation and activation of p65 for subsequent cytokines production. Notably, the cleaved N-terminal fragment of CYLD (named CP25) is secreted in a TRIF/Caspase8-dependent manner. Moreover, CP25 can be detected in the serum of septic mice, and its levels show a strong correlation with corresponding serum IL-1β, suggesting its potential utility as an inflammatory biomarker. Overall, these findings highlight the significance of CYLD cleavage as a promising therapeutic target and diagnostic marker for endotoxic shock.
Mechanisms underlying TRPV4-mediated regulation of miR-146a expression
Authors: Dutta Bidisha , Mahanty Manisha , Kesavalu Lakshmyya , Rahaman Shaik O.
Published: April 2024

Persistent inflammation is a major contributor in the development of various inflammatory diseases like atherosclerosis. Our study investigates how transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), a mechanosensitive ion channel, interacts with microRNA-146a (miR-146a), within the context of inflammation and atherosclerosis. Micro-RNAs play a critical role in controlling gene expression, and miR-146a is notable for its anti-inflammatory actions. TRPV4 is activated by diverse soluble and mechanical stimuli, and often associated with inflammatory responses in various diseases. Here, we find that TRPV4 negatively regulates miR-146a expression in macrophages, especially following stimulation by lipopolysaccharides or alterations in matrix stiffness. We show that in atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by matrix stiffening, TRPV4 decreases miR-146a expression in aortic tissue macrophages. We find that TRPV4’s impact on miR-146a is independent of activation of NFκB, Stat1, P38, and AKT, but is rather mediated through a mechanism involving histone deacetylation instead of DNA methylation at the miR-146a promoter site. Furthermore, we show that N-terminal residues 1 to 130 in TRPV4 is essential in suppression of miR-146a expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Altogether, this study identifies a regulatory mechanism of miR-146a expression by TRPV4 which may open new potential therapeutic strategies for managing inflammatory diseases.
Vesicle-mediated mitochondrial clearance underlies an actionable metabolic vulnerability in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Vykoukal Jody , Chen Yihui , Hong Monica J. , Zuo Mingxin , Krishna Hansini , Katayama Hiroyuki , Irajizad Ehsan , Wu Ranran , León-Letelier Ricardo A. , Dennison Jennifer B. , Gutierrez Angelica M. , Paulucci-Holthauzen Adriana , Thompson Timothy C. , Rusling Leona , Cai Yining , Hsiao Fu Chung , Park Soyoung , Arun Banu , Hanash Samir , Fahrmann Johannes F.
Published: April 2024

Selective autophagy of mitochondria is known to promote survival and progression of cancer cells in various malignancies including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Here, we aimed to identify the essential metabolic adaptations that support mitochondrial quality control with the goal to uncover actionable metabolic vulnerabilities with therapeutic potential. Using an integrated approach of proteomics and untargeted and stable-isotope resolved metabolomics, coupled with functional experimental analyses, we define an alternative mechanism to mitophagy enabled by an onco-metabolic program of heightened extracellular sphingomyelin salvaging in TNBC that facilitates extracellular vesicle (EV)-mediated intracellular clearance of mitochondrial damage. Targeting of the cancer cell sphingolipid onco-metabolic pathway via repurposing of eliglustat, a selective small molecule inhibitor of glucosylceramide synthase (UGCG), resulted in ceramide-induced lethal mitophagy and attenuated tumor growth and prolonged overall survival at clinically achievable doses in an orthotopic syngeneic mouse model of TNBC. Our study defines a mechanism of aberrant sphingolipid metabolism that underlies an actionable metabolic vulnerability for anti-cancer treatment.
Detecting axion dark matter with Rydberg atoms via induced electric dipole transitions
Authors: Engelhardt Georg , Bhoonah Amit , Liu W. Vincent
Published: April 2024

Long-standing efforts to detect axions are driven by two compelling prospects, naturally accounting for the absence of charge-conjugation and parity symmetry breaking in quantum chromodynamics, and for the elusive dark matter at ultralight mass scale. Many experiments use advanced cavity resonator setups to probe the magnetic-field-mediated conversion of axions to photons. Here, we show how to search for axion matter without relying on such a cavity setup, which opens a new path for the detection of ultralight axions, where cavity-based setups are infeasible. When applied to Rydberg atoms, which feature particularly large transition dipole elements, this effect promises an outstanding sensitivity for detecting ultralight dark matter. Our estimates show that it can provide laboratory constraints in parameter space that so far have only been probed astrophysically, and cover new unprobed regions of the parameter space. The Rydberg atomic gases offer a flexible and inexpensive experimental platform that can operate at room temperature. We project the sensitivity by quantizing the axion-modified Maxwell equations to accurately describe atoms and molecules as quantum sensors wherever axion dark matter is present.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Hierarchy of multipartite correlations based on concentratable entanglement
Authors: Schatzki Louis , Liu Guangkuo , Cerezo M. , Chitambar Eric
Published: April 2024

Multipartite entanglement is one of the hallmarks of quantum mechanics and is central to quantum information processing. In this work we show that concentratable entanglement (CE), an operationally motivated entanglement measure, induces a hierarchy upon pure states from which different entanglement structures can be experimentally certified. In particular, we find that nearly all genuine multipartite entangled states can be verified through the CE. Interestingly, GHZ states prove to be far from maximally entangled according to this measure. Instead we find the exact maximal value and corresponding states for up to 18 qubits and show that these correspond to extremal quantum error correcting codes. The latter allows us to unravel a deep connection between CE and coding theory. Finally, our results also offer an alternative proof, on up to 31 qubits, that absolutely maximally entangled states do not exist.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024