bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadband nonlinear modulation of incoherent light using a transparent optoelectronic neuron array
Authors: Duan Xiangfeng , Zhang Dehui , Xu Dong , Li Yuhang , Luo Yi , Hu Jingtian , Zhou Jingxuan , Zhang Yucheng , Zhou Boxuan , Wang Peiqi , Li Xurong , Bai Bijie , Ren Huaying , Wang Laiyuan , Jarrahi Mona , Huang Yu , Ozcan Aydogan , Zhang Ao
Published: February 2024

Nonlinear optical processing of ambient natural light is highly desired for computational imaging and sensing. Strong optical nonlinear response under weak broadband incoherent light is essential for this purpose. By merging 2D transparent phototransistors (TPTs) with liquid crystal (LC) modulators, we create an optoelectronic neuron array that allows self-amplitude modulation of spatially incoherent light, achieving a large nonlinear contrast over a broad spectrum at orders-of-magnitude lower intensity than achievable in most optical nonlinear materials. We fabricated a 10,000-pixel array of optoelectronic neurons, and experimentally demonstrated an intelligent imaging system that instantlyattenuates input glares while retaining the weaker-intensity objects captured by a cellphone camera. This intelligent glare-reduction is important for various imaging applications, including autonomous driving, machine vision, and security cameras. The rapid nonlinear processing of incoherent broadband light might also find applications in optical computing, where nonlinear activation functions for ambient light conditions are highly sought.
Beautiful Mind: a meta-heuristic algorithm for generating minimal covering array
Authors: Esfandyari Sajad , Rafe Vahid , Pira Einollah , Yousofvand liela
Published: February 2024

Today, the application of meta-heuristic algorithms in solving problems is very important. This importance has led to the development of hundreds of types of meta-heuristic algorithms by researchers. The reason for the high number of such algorithms is that an algorithm may be superior to its competitors in a particular problem. Generating a test set in Combinatorial Testing (CT) is one of the thousands of problems that can be solved by meta-heuristic algorithms and hundreds of algorithms have been proposed in this regard. The main challenge in producing a test set in CT is becoming trapped in local optima that several solutions have been offered to overcome this problem. Since the proposed solutions are very slow in terms of time, it is still possible to produce better results by applying other solutions. Continuing our research in the field of CT, we have tried to present a new meta-heuristic solution called Beautiful Mind (BM), which simulates the human way to reach the answer. In fact, the proposed algorithm considers the human intelligence and emotional coefficient to find the answer. The evaluation results show that the proposed approach is much stronger than the existing solutions.
Adsorption Investigation of Polyacrylic Acid on Sub-micron Titanium Dioxide Surface and Associated Effects on Flocculation
Authors: Sun Xianfeng , Zheng Shenke , Cai Zhonghao , Wang Dong , Zhou Boxin , Chen Chubin , Wang Daowei
Published: February 2024

This work investigated the flocculation of sub-micron titanium dioxide (TiO2) by polyacrylic acids (PAAs), with a focus on studying the correlation between PAAs adsorption conformation and flocculation efficiency/flocs property. The adsorption analysis of PAAs on the TiO2 surface was studied by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), CHNS elemental analyzer coupled with quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). Adsorption densities were fitted using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The flocculation process of TiO2 by PAAs of different molecular weights (MWs) was monitored in real-time by photometric dispersion analyzer (PDA), and the floc structure was studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results indicated that PAAs adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm, forming monolayer adsorption on the TiO2 surface regardless of MWs through hydrogen and bidentate chelating chemical bonds. The adsorption layer thickness increased with increasing MW, which could promote flocs size by providing molecular “bridges”; but impeded the flocculation rate. For sub-micron particles, polyacrylic acid with a medium MW (512 kDa) was the optimum polymer owing to obtain the fastest flocculation rate and relatively dense flocs in the present research. PAA with high MW resulted in larger flocs with more porositise, while the low MW PAA can only generate smaller flocs with slower flocculation rate.
Sustainable solar energy deployment: a multicriteria decision-making approach for site suitability and greenhouse gas emission reduction
Authors: Richards Delmaria , Yabar Helmut , Mizunoya Takeshi , Koon Randy Koon , Tran Gia Hong , Esopere Yannick
Published: February 2024

Conventional power generation methods have led to adverse environmental impacts. Thus, the need for a strategic transition to alternative energy sources arises. This paper addresses land suitability and allocation for utility-scale solar farms based on environmental and socioeconomic planning. It employs multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques, namely, the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy logic via a geographic information system (GIS). Environmental, economic, technical, social, and safety energy-optimization criteria are applied. A case study of Jamaica was utilized to explain the logic and efficiency of the model, where sites were determined by assigning weights to the criteria based on responses from a questionnaire with stakeholders and energy expert respondents. Information from published literature also determined criteria constraints for buffered distances and prohibited zones of ecological importance, land use areas, and hydrologic geomorphology. The fuzzy logic models of zero (unacceptable) and one (acceptable) are compared against the AHP model, where weights are applied according to relative importance. Finally, 16 suitable sites are identified based on their coordinates, specific available land, global horizontal irradiance (GHI), photovoltaic power potential (PVOUT), optimal tilt of the PV module (OPTM), temperature, elevation, and potential energy based on the silicon PV model. The suitability maps reveal that the total potential energy generation ranges from 19.96 to 109.15 GWh per year, with total land availability ranging from 666.90 to 2824.10 km2. Moreover, the amount of fossil fuel-based energy displaced is equivalent to 64,210 barrels of oil (BOE) or 1.94% per year, with 51,365.84 million tons of CO2e or a 1.71% reduction in total greenhouse emissions, saving the country US$3.28 million in social benefits from CO2 abated. The study's results can aid energy planners, potential investors, policymakers, and researchers identify suitable locations for utility-scale solar farms while minimizing environmental damage and optimizing land use to achieve sustainable renewable energy expansion for increased energy security.
A machine learning model that outperforms conventional global subseasonal forecast models
Authors: Li Hao , Chen Lei , Zhong Xiaohui , Wu Jie , Chen Deliang , Xie Shang-Ping , Chao Qingchen , Lin Chensen , Hu Zixin , Lu Bo , Qi Yuan
Published: February 2024

Skillful subseasonal forecasts beyond 2 weeks is critical to various sectors of society but pose a grand scientific challenge. Recently, machine learning based weather forecasting models have made remarkable advancements, outperforming the most successful numerical weather predictions (NWP) generated by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). However, currently, no machine learning based subseasonal forecasting model surpasses conventional models. Here, we introduce FuXi Subseasonal-to-Seasonal (FuXi-S2S), a machine learning based subseasonal forecasting model that provides global daily mean forecasts for up to 42 days, covering 5 upper-air atmospheric variables at 13 pressure levels and 11 surface variables. FuXi-S2S integrates an enhanced FuXi base model with a perturbation module for flow-dependent perturbations in hidden features, which is a crucial for estimating uncertainty and enhancing subseasonal skill. The model is developed using 72 years of daily statistics from ECMWF ERA5 reanalysis data. When compared to the state-of-the-art ECMWF Subseasonal-to-Seasonal (S2S) reforecasts using a conventional model, the FuXi-S2S forecasts demonstrate superior deterministic and ensemble forecasts for total precipitation (TP), outgoing longwave radiation (OLR), and geopotential at 500 hPa (Z500). Moreover, it demonstrates comparable performance in predicting global 2-meter temperature (T2M), with clear advantages in land areas. Regarding forecasts for extreme TP, FuXi-S2S outperforms ECMWF S2S globally. The improved performance of FuXi-S2S is primarily due to its superior capability of predicting the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), a key source of subseasonal predictability and a significant driver of weather patterns around the world. FuXi-S2S successfully extends the skillful MJO prediction from 30 days to 36 days.
Scalable synthesis of Cu(-Ag) oxide clusters via spark ablation for the highly selective electrochemical conversion of CO2 to acetaldehyde
Authors: Koolen Cedric , Pedersen Jack , Zijlstra Bernardus , Winzely Maximilian , Zhang Jie , Pfeiffer Tobias , Vrijburg Wilbert , Li Mo , Agarwal Ayush , Akbari Zohreh , Kuddusi Yasemen , Herranz Juan , Safonova Olga , Schmidt-Ott Andreas , Luo Wen , Züttel Andreas
Published: February 2024

The electrochemical conversion of CO2 into the base chemical acetaldehyde offers a sustainable and green alternative to the Wacker process. However, current electrocatalysts cannot effectively compete with heterogeneous processes due to their limited selectivity towards acetaldehyde, resulting in low energy efficiencies. Herein, we report a theory-guided synthesis of a series of Cu(-Ag) oxide cluster catalysts (~ 1.5 nm) immobilized on various hetero-atom doped carbonaceous supports, produced via spark ablation of Cu (and Ag) electrodes. These catalysts achieved an impressive acetaldehyde selectivity of up to 92% at only 600 mV from the equilibrium potential. Further, the catalyst exhibited exceptional catalytic stability during a rigorous 30-hour stress test involving 3 repeated start-stop cycles. In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy showed that the initial oxide clusters were completely reduced under cathodic potential and maintained their metallic nature even after exposure to air, explaining the stable performance of the catalyst. First-principles simulations further elucidated the possible mechanism of CO2 conversion to acetaldehyde.
Sulfur/reduced graphite-oxide and dual-anion solid polymer-electrolyte integrated structure for high-loading practical all-solid-state lithium–sulfur battery
Authors: Kim Jae-Kwang , Jin En Mei , Han Jinseok , Kim Guk-Tae , Park Ganghwan , Baek Dong-Ho , Li Huan , Cui Meng Yang , Jin Bo , Jeong Sang Mun
Published: February 2024

Demand for high-capacity batteries with long cycle life and safety has been increasing owing to the expanding mid-to-large battery market. Li–S batteries are suitable energy-storage devices because of their reversibility, high theoretical capacity, and inexpensive construction materials. However, their performance is limited by various factors, including the shuttle effect and dendrite growth at the anode. Here, an integrated electrode for use in all-solid-state (ASS) Li–S batteries was formed via hot-pressing. In detail, S particles dispersed in a functionalized reduced graphite oxide (rGO) cathode with a binder-less polymer electrolyte (PE) and a dual-anion ionic liquid-containing cross-linked poly(ethylene oxide)–Li bis(fluoromethanesulfonyl)imide–N-butyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide-based solid polymer electrolyte (SPE, PEO–LiFSI0.1(Pyr14TFSI)0.4) were hot-pressed into an integrated electrode, serving as both the cathode and electrolyte. The resultant S/rGO-based solid-state Li–S batteries exhibited more stable performance than Li–S batteries using liquid electrolytes, indicating that the dual-anion SPE layer effectively suppressed the dendritic L formation and the shuttle effect with high ionic conductivity. At 0.1 C, the battery discharge capacities were 957 and 576 mAh g− 1 in the first cycle and after 100 cycles, respectively. At 1 C, the reversible capacity was 590 and 417 mAh g− 1 in the first cycle and after 100 cycles, respectively (capacity retention = 71%). Therefore, the proposed S/rGO/PE//LiFSI0.1(Pyr14TFSI)0.4-integrated electrodes are beneficial for ASS Li–S batteries.
Patient care and access to clinical trials in gynaecological oncology: Global Implications of the Early Phase of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nasser Sara , Fotopoulou Christina , Gültekin Murat , Dimitrova Desislava , Bilir Esra , Inci Gülhan , Morice Philippe , Mirza Mansoor Raza , Martin Antonio Gonzalez , Berek Jonathan , Sehouli Jalid
Published: February 2024

Purpose:
Our prospective international survey evaluated the impact of the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management gynaecological malignancies from the multidisciplinary physicians' perspective with particular focus on clinical infrastructures, and trial participation.
Methods:
Our survey consisted of 53 COVID-related questions. It was sent to healthcare professionals in gynaecological oncology centres across Europe and Pan-Arabian region via the study groups and gynaecological societies from April 2020 to October 2020. All healthcare professionals treating gynaecological cancers were able to participate our survey.
Results:
A total of 255 answers were collected from 30 countries. The majority (73%) of participants were gynaecological oncologists from university hospitals (71%) with at least an intensive care unit with cardiopulmonary-support available at their institutions. Most institutions continued to perform elective surgeries only for oncological cases (98%). Patients had to wait on average two weeks longer for their surgery appointments compared to previous years (range 0-12 weeks). Most cases that were prioritised for surgical intervention across all gynaecological tumours were early-stage disease (74%), primary situation (61%), and good ECOG status (63%). The radicality of surgery did not change in the majority of cases (78%) across all tumour types. During the pandemic, only 38% of clinicians stated they would start a new clinical trial. Almost half of the participants stated the pandemic negatively impacted the financial structure and support for clinical trials. Approximately 20% of clinicians didn't feel well informed regarding clinical algorithm for COVID-19 patients throughout the pandemic. Thirty percent stated that they are currently having trouble in providing adequate medical care due to staff shortage.
Conclusions:
Despite well-established guidelines, pandemic clearly affected clinical research and patientcare. Our survey underlines the necessity for building robust emergency algorithms tailored to gynaecological oncology to minimize negative impact in crises and to preserve access to clinical trials.
Large scale multi-objective optimization algorithm with multiple strategies
Authors: Pei Qianru , Zou Feng , Chen Debao
Published: February 2024

When dealing with large-scale multi-objective optimization problems (LSMOP), enhancing the dimensionality of decision variables tends to render the MOEA/D algorithm poor scalability in decision space and more susceptible to converging toward local optima. In response to this issue, this article proposed an improved large-scale MOEA/D algorithm with multiple strategies (MSMOEA/D). In the MSMOEA/D algorithm, a hybrid initialization strategy based on automatic encoder was introduced into multi-objective optimization to provide a better initial population. Moreover, a neighborhood adjustment strategy based on the aggregation function value was proposed, which dynamically adjusted the neighborhood in accordance with the evolutionary progression of the current population and the change degree of the aggregation function value, and thus can obtained better search capabilities. Furthermore, a mutation selection strategy based on non-dominated sorting is adopted within the optimization process. Different subproblems select mutation strategies according to the number of individuals located at the first level of non-dominated sorting to avoid the population falling into local optima and enhance the overall performance of the algorithm. Finally, both the MSMOEA/D algorithm and other existing algorithms are evaluated using LSMOP and DTLZ test problems. The experimental outcomes substantiate the effectiveness of the improved algorithm in solving LSMOPs.
Use of digital food records in clinical settings - lessons in translation from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Barnett Amandine , Mayr Hannah L , Keating Shelley E , Conley Marguerite M , Webb Lindsey , Jegatheesan Dev K , Staudacher Heidi , Macdonald Graeme A , Kelly Jaimon , Campbell Katrina L , Hickman Ingrid J
Published: February 2024

Background
Digital food records provide an efficient way to collect and assess dietary information remotely; however, there is limited research into factors which may impact their translation into clinical settings.
Methods
The study aimed to examine factors that may impact integration of a digital food record (mobile food diary app, electronically linked to a nutrition analysis software program) into clinical dietetic practice. This was achieved by assessing 1) the source and rate of data errors received (participant data entry or software) 2) the impact of dietitian-adjusted data on dietary variables; and 3) acceptance of use in a complex chronic disease cohort. Study participants were adults from specialist liver and kidney disease clinics who were enrolled in a randomised controlled feasibility trial. Participants recorded their dietary intake for three days using a mobile food diary app (Research Food diary, Xyris Software Pty Ltd) and this was analysed via desktop electronic nutrition analysis software (FoodWorks, Xyris Software Pty Ltd). Each participant’s digital food record was verified by a dietitian and errors were corrected. Dietary variables from digital food records before (participant-unadjusted data) and after (dietitian-adjusted data) were compared by non-parametric Wilcoxon signed ranks test, Bland Altman and Passing Balok analysis. Participant acceptance of using the mobile food diary app was assessed via online surveys and interviews.
Results
Errors appeared in 93% of the records. Dietitian-adjusted median data were higher for all macronutrients, five core food groups and other variables including energy and fibre intake than participant-unadjusted data (p < 0.05, median changes between 10–65%) of 59 participant records(median age 51 years, interquartile range 38–58). There was poor agreement between participant-unadjusted and dietitian-adjusted data for dietary variables including saturated fat, vegetables and added sugar intake. Sixty-four percent of participants who completed the survey (n = 32/50) found the app easy to use, while interviews with 29 participants provided insights into several technical challenges experienced.
Conclusion
Significant barriers to integrating digital food records into clinical practice exist related to errors that require dietitian adjustment to improve data quality for clinical decision making. Overall, there was variable acceptance towards the mobile food diary app.
Trial registration:
Australia and New Zealand Trials Registry ACTRN12620001282976. https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=378337
Irinotecan plus raltitrexed as second-line treatment in locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer patients: a prospective open-label, single-arm, multicenter, Phase II study
Authors: Cheng Yu , Teng Zan , Zhang Yanqiao , Jin Bo , Zheng Zhendong , Man Li , Wang Zhenghua , Teng Yuee , Yu Ping , Shi Jing , Luo Ying , Wang Ying , Zhang Jingdong , Zhang Huijuan , Liu Jiwei , Chen Hao , Xiao Jiawen , Zhao Lei , Zhang Lingyun , Jiang Yu , Chen Ying , Zhang Jian , Wang Chang , Liu Sa , Qu Jinglei , Qu Xiujuan , Liu Yunpeng
Published: February 2024

Background
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. There are limited therapeutic options for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancers which fail first-line chemotherapy. Phase I/II studies showed that the combined application of the raltitrexed and irinotecan has significant synergistic effect and acceptable toxicity. However, most of these previous studies have relatively small sample size.
Methods
This is a prospective open-label, single-arm, multicenter, Phase II trial. Brief inclusion criteria: patients were aged 18 to 75 years with locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer after failure of 5-FU and oxaliplatin therapy. Enrolled patients received raltitrexed (3 mg/m2, d1) and irinotecan (180 mg/m2, d1) each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival, and the secondary endpoints were disease control rate, objective response rate, overall survival and safety.
Results
A total of 108 patients were enrolled between October 2016 and May 2020. The median age was 61 years, ECOG 1 score accounts for 67.6%, the rest were ECOG 0. A total of 502 cycles were completed, with an average of 4.6 cycles and a median of 4 cycles. 108 patients were evaluated, with an objective response rate of 17.6%, and disease control rate of 76.9%. The median follow-up time was 27 months at data cut-off on March 2023. Median progression-free survival was 4.9 months (95% CI 4.1–5.7) and median overall survival was 13.1 months (95% CI 12.2–15.5). The most common adverse events that were elevated are alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, fatigue, diarrhoea, neutrocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, hypohemoglobin, and leukocytopenia. Most of the adverse events were Grade I/II, which were relieved after symptomatic treatment, and there were no treatment-related cardiotoxicities and deaths.
Conclusions
Raltitrexed is strongly recommended as second-line treatment after failure of standard 5-Fu-first-line chemotherapy in locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancers, especially for patients with 5-FU intolerance (cardiac events or DPD deficiency patients).
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03053167, registration date was 14/2/2017.
WITHDRAWN: Creating Highly Efficient Stretchable OLEDs with Nanowavy Structures for Angle-Independent Narrow Band Emission
Authors: Suh Min Chul , Nimbalkar Ajay , Irfan Aqsa
Published: February 2024

Stretchable organic light-emitting diodes (SOLEDs) have been the challenging class of OLED as they have limited processability to fabricate a design that can withstand external deformation. Herein, we demonstrated the first highly efficient geometrical stretchable top-emitting OLED by incorporating the prestretched optical adhesive film. Compared to a reference glass substrate, an optical adhesive substrate facilitates more extraction of light that would trap inside the device due to various light trapping modes. The experimental and theoretical characterizations verified the enhancement of device efficiencies with the light extraction phenomenon brought by the nanowavy corrugated structures. In addition, GSOLED shows stability in stretchable conditions and displayed a narrower emission spectrum with improved color purity by controlling the thickness of electrodes and organic layers. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 21 nm shows narrowband emission with a high current efficiency and EQE of 221 cd A− 1 and 51.30% respectively. This work marks a significant step forward, providing unprecedented insights into the factors influencing device performance in current and future material systems for stretchable organic light-emitting diodes.
Predicting humoral responses to primary and booster SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination in people living with HIV: a Machine Learning approach
Authors: Montesi Giorgio , Augello Matteo , Polvere Jacopo , Marchetti Giulia , Medaglini Donata , Ciabattini Annalisa
Published: February 2024

Background
SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines are highly immunogenic in people living with HIV (PLWH) on effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, whether viro-immunologic parameters or other factors affect immune responses to vaccination is debated. This study aimed to develop a Machine Learning (ML)-based model able to predict the humoral response to mRNA vaccines in PLWH and to assess the impact of demographic and clinical variables on antibody production overtime.
Methods
Different ML-algorithms have been compared in the setting of a longitudinal observational study involving 497 PLWH, after primary and booster vaccination. Both Generalized Linear Models and non-linear Models (Tree Regression and Random Forest [RF]) were trained and tested.
Results
Non-linear algorithms showed better ability to predict vaccine-elicited humoral responses. The best-performing RF model identified few variables as more influential, within 40 clinical, demographic, and immunological factors. In particular, previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, BMI, CD4 T-cell count and CD4/CD8 ratio were positively associated with the primary cycle immunogenicity, yet their predictive value diminished with the administration of booster doses.
Conclusions
RF ML-algorithm accurately predicted humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination in PLWH, highlighting that who are underweight, those with poor immune recovery on ART, and those without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection have reduced humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA primary vaccination. The administration of booster doses overcomes the influence of these factors, suggesting that further vaccine doses could be offered to PLWH as the humoral immunity wanes over time.
First insight into the whole-genome sequence variations in clarithromycin- resistant Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates in Russia
Authors: Starkova Daria , Gladyshev Nikita , Polev Dmitrii , Saitova Alina , Egorova Svetlana , Svarval Alena
Published: February 2024

Clarithromycin (CLR) is a key drug to treat Helicobacter pylori infection, however the data on CLR resistance patterns in Russia are missing. Here, we applied next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based approach to H. pylori clinical isolates from Russia to comprehensively investigate sequence variations, identify putative markers of CLR resistance and correlate them with phenotypic drug susceptibility testing (DST). The phenotypic susceptibility of 44 H. pylori isolates (2014–2022) to CLR was determined by disc diffusion method. All isolates were undergone whole-genome sequencing and submitted to GenBank. Twenty-three H. pylori isolates were phenotypically CLR-resistant and 21- were CLR-susceptible. Based on complete sequence analysis, we showed that among all genetic variants, the combination of mutations A2146G/A2147G in the 23S rRNA gene is the most reliable for prediction of phenotypic DST. For the first time, the average number of nucleotide variants in 108 virulence-associated genes between resistant and susceptible groups were compared. Moreover, this study presents the first WGS insight into genetic diversity of H. pylori in Russia with a particular focus on the molecular basis of drug resistance: the novel mutations were described as potential markers for the resistance development. Of these, the most prominent was frameshift deletion in HP0820 coding region, which is a good candidate for further investigation.
Partner quality matters - overyielding in a maize/soybean mixture depends on the initiator of common mycorrhizal networks
Authors: Liu Yalin , Kuyper Thomas W. , Zhang Lin , Li Chunjie
Published: February 2024

Aims
Cereal/legume intercropping has advantages in yield and nutrient uptake. However, how common mycorrhizal networks (CMNs), formed by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a role in those benefits has not been fully clarified. This study aimed to explore how CMNs initiated by different host plants affected plant performance and nutrient acquisition in a maize/soybean mixture.
Methods
Microcosms with three compartments were used; these were separated by 30-µm nylon mesh. Two compartments were root compartments (RCs), and the third compartment was a hyphal compartment (HC). One RC was inoculated with the AMF Rhizophagus irregularis and the plant in this compartment was referred to as CMNs donor, and the plant in the other RC compartment as CMNs receiver.
Results
Maize biomass was twice that of soybean. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content of both maize and soybean were higher in the presence of CMNs compared with the treatment without AMF. When maize was the CMNs donor, shoot biomass, N and P content of the mixture were higher than the expected biomass, N and P content based on monocultures, and effect not seen when soybean was the CMNs donor. Overyielding in biomass but not in N and P content, suggesting a disconnect between an AMF-induced increase in N, P acquisition and biomass increases.
Conclusion
CMNs asymmetrically increased biomass, N and P content of the larger-biomass species in this crop mixture compared with monocultures.
Factors Influencing Covid-19 Vaccination Uptake Among Nurses and Midwives Students in Select Ghanaian Multi-Training Settings Using the Theory of Reasoned Action.
Authors: Owusu Lydia Boampong , Zakaria Abdul-Fatawu Suglo , Collins Anita , Nukpezah Ruth Nimota , Mensah Olivia Nyarko
Published: February 2024

Background
The investigation into the adoption of the COVID-19 vaccine within diverse populations has undergone rigorous examination. A thorough analysis has illuminated that 48% of healthcare professionals and 34% of healthcare students have embraced the vaccination. However, a noticeable dearth of research exists regarding the vaccination uptake among Ghanaian nursing and midwifery students. Consequently, this study seeks to elucidate the landscape of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among Ghanaian student nurses and midwives across various settings.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional convenient sample design was adopted. An adapted Vaccination Attitude scale questionnaire was administered online to 557 nurses and midwives’ students at two diploma and two bachelor's degree-granting nursing and midwifery educational institutions in southern and northern Ghana. The data were analysed using SPSS 25.
Results
Eighty percent of the nurses and midwives were vaccinated. According to the TRA, unknown COVID-19 vaccine adverse effects, the notion that natural immunity lasts longer than immunisation and the chance that the vaccine may create future difficulties affect students' vaccine uptake. Risk perception led to COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Age and vaccination perception were weakly correlated with COVID-19 vaccination uptake. Age: Spearman's rank correlation, rs = .12, p = .005; perception: -0.14, p = .001).
Conclusion
Using the TRA to analyse the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination, students who desired the vaccination strongly thought it would protect them and others, suggesting that they would follow the suggestion. Students were vaccinated because they believed that COVID-19 was important and dangerous, felt responsible for their health, and followed the authorities' advice. This study revealed that age and vaccination perception impact COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
LARP7 liquid-liquid phase separation restrains HIV replication
Authors: Li Weihua , Li Zhuoxin , Fang Xiya , Zhao Bing , Li Tingting , Liu Ran , shen Yezhuang , Guo Zenglin , Wang Wen , Zhang Biyu , Han Qiu-Ying , Xu Xin , Wang Kai , Yin Libing , Gong Wei-Li , Li Ai-Ling , Zhou Tao , Li Teng
Published: February 2024

HIV-1 initiates replication by hijacking host transcription factor P-TEFb through transactivator Tat. The majority of P-TEFb is kept inactive by 7sk snRNP until brought to transcription initiation complex by cellular or viral transactivators that dramatically accelerate transcription and enable full-length transcripts. Understanding the mechanism behind the release of P-TEFb from 7sk snRNP is key in blocking the initial step of HIV-1 replication. Here, we report that HIV-1 infection triggers liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of LARP7, the core component of the 7sk snRNP, in T cells. We demonstrated that LARP7 is capable of forming condensates with Tat, and the conserved lysine residues in the intrinsically disordered region (IDR) of LARP7 are crucial for its phase separation and inhibition of Tat-mediated transcription. Our findings unravel a new mechanism that P-TEFb and Tat are retained in LARP7 condensates and HIV-1 transcription is restrained until accumulated Tat breaks the balance, which offer novel insights into the host protein's defense against HIV-1 infection through LLPS, highlighting the potential of targeting the phase separation of LARP7 as a new strategy for fighting HIV-1/AIDS.
Research on alkali-carbonate reaction (ACR) and damage of freeze-thaw for pure dolomite as concrete coarse aggregate
Authors: Chen Yulin , Xiong Xuefei , Wang Ding , Zhou Xianliang , Liu Changwu , Xu Zhipeng
Published: February 2024

Alkali-carbonate reaction (ACR) is one of the important components of alkali aggregate reaction (AAR) in concrete structures, which may lead to a serious damage for the concrete construction and effect on the durability of concrete projects adversely. Previous research has systematically investigated the possibility of ACR in dolomitic limestone. However, there is limited literature available for ACR in pure dolomite aggregate specifically. Therefore, this paper aims to investigates whether pure dolomite occur ACR and the freeze-thaw resistance of pure dolomite coarse aggregate concrete (PDCAC) due to the raw materials produced in the southwest of China, which is cold in winter. To determine the alkali activity of pure dolomite, three methods were employed: lithofacies method (LM), rock-cylinder method (RCM), and rapid preliminary screening test for carbonate aggregates (AAR-5). Lithofacies method confirmed that the dolomite used in this paper was pure almost, and no SiO2 content, ruling out the possibility of alkali-silica reaction (ASR). The rock-cylinder method indicated a reduction in length during the 84-day test period, which indicates the absence of ACR. Subsequently, the AAR-5 method was used to test ACR, and the samples exhibited a length expansion rate of far less than 0.1% within 28 days, which further confirmed the absence of alkali activity in pure dolomite. Finally, the freeze-thaw cycles test was carried out on the concrete with pure dolomite as concrete coarse aggregate. The results revealed no significant spalling on the concrete surface after 200 freeze-thaw cycles, and pure dolomite coarse aggregate concrete can withstand freeze-thaw damage to a certain extent.
Genetic Diversity Between and Within Opuntia Spp. Species Revealed by Molecular Marker Issr.
Authors: DE ARAÚJO JOSEILSON MOREIRA , Rêgo Maílson Monteiro do , Rêgo Elizanilda Ramalho do
Published: February 2024

Opuntia fodder palm spp., constitutes a viable solution for animal feeding in arid and semi-arid regions due to its easy adaptation to this type of environment, its physiological characteristics and low production cost. Given its importance, it is essential to know more about its genetic characteristics. One of the most used techniques is molecular markers. Within this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic diversity of 40 Opuntia genotypes spp. from the Active Germplasm Bank-BAG of the National Semiarid Institute-INSA, using Inter Simple molecular markers Sequence Repeats - ISSR. Extraction of Deoxyribonucleic Acid - DNA from the accessions was carried out using the DNeasy Plant Mini® Kit ( Qiagen ). 11 ISSR oligonucleotide primers ( primers ) were used. With this technique, 839 fragments were amplified, distributed across 91 loci. From the genetic distances of the 40 accessions, nine groups were constructed. It was found that there is high genetic diversity between and within the species evaluated, contributing to expanding the genetic base of segregating populations. It is suggested intraspecific crossing between accessions 87 and 117 and interspecific crossing with accessions 1 x 119, 86 x ? (101), 86 x 135, 88 x 135, ?(101) x 135.
Lymphovascular invasion affects prognosis of colorectal cancer liver metastasis underwent primary resection: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: li wei , Liu Bo , Xiang Xingxing , Zhang Qun , Yang QingLin , Cao Yinghao , Liu Tao
Published: February 2024

Background: Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) is associated with poor prognosis in a variety of malignancies; however, its prognostic value has not been fully defined in patients with colorectal cancer with liver metastases (CRCLM). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of lymphovascular invasion on long-term postoperative recurrence and survival in patients with CRCLM.
Methods：Clinicopathologic data were retrospectively collected from patients who underwent primary resection for CRCLM at Wuhan Union Hospital from 2013 to 2018. To reduce potential confounders and selection bias, we used propensity score matching (PSM) to compare the clinicopathologic characteristics and long-term prognostic outcomes of patients in the LVI(+) and LVI(-) groups. Cox unifactorial and multifactorial analyses were used to screen relevant factors affecting patient prognosis, and Kaplan-Meier curves were plotted to compare differences in patient OS and DFS. The predictive power of independent factors on patients' long-term prognosis was assessed using receiver operating characteristic ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC).
Results: After PSM, 230 patients were enrolled in the study (n=115 per group). Multifactorial analysis revealed that LVI was an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.424; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.004–2.022; P=0.048 and HR, 1.452; 95% CI, 1.020–2.069; p=0.039, respectively). In the LVI(-) group, postoperative chemotherapy did not significantly improve OS or DFS; however, in the LVI(+) group, those who received chemotherapy had significantly improved OS (HR: 2.424 , 95% CI: 1.471−3.992; P=0.00034) and DFS (HR: 2.164, 95% CI. 1.328−3.525; P=0.0014) compared with patients not treated with chemotherapy. In the LVI(+) group, the AUC for the OS AUROC curves was more favorable compared with after PSM (AUC at 3 years: 0.786 vs 0.903; AUC at 5 years: 0.744 vs 0.889). For DFS, the area under the AUROC curve was also better in the LVI(+) subgroup compared with after PSM (AUC at 3 years: 0.874 vs 0.786; AUC at 5 years: 0.863 vs 0.744).
Conclusions: LVI significantly impacts long-term survival and prognosis in patients with CRLM undergoing primary resection and is an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS. Postoperative chemotherapy significantly improved the long-term prognosis of patients with LVI(+).
ABA-activated nanomolar Ca2+-CPK signalling controls root cap cycle plasticity and stress adaptation
Authors: Liu Kun-Hsiang , Lin Ziwei , Guo ying , Zhang Ruiyuan , Li Yiming , Wu Yue , Sheen Jen
Published: February 2024

Abscisic acid (ABA) regulates plant stress adaptation, growth, and reproduction. Despite extensive ABA-Ca2+ signaling links, imaging ABA-induced Ca2+ concentration increase was challenging, except in guard cells. Here, we visualize ABA-triggered [Ca2+] dynamics in diverse organs and cell types using a genetically-encoded Ca2+ ratiometric sensor (CRS) with nanomolar affinity and large dynamic range. Subcellular-targeted CRS reveals time-resolved and unique spatiotemporal Ca2+ signatures from the initial plasma-membrane nanodomain, cytosol, to nuclear oscillation. Via receptors and sucrose-non-fermenting1-related protein kinases (SNRK2.2,2.3,2.6), ABA activates nanomolar Ca2+ waves and Ca2+-sensor protein kinase (CPK10,30,32) signalling in the root cap cycle from stem cells to cell detachment. Surprisingly, unlike the prevailing NaCl-stimulated micromolar Ca2+ spike, salt stress induces a nanomolar Ca2+ wave through ABA signaling, repressing key transcription factors dictating cell fate and enzymes crucial to root cap maturation and slough. Our findings uncover ultrasensitive ABA-Ca2+-CPK signalling in modulating root cap cycle plasticity in adaptation to adverse environments.
Fenofibrate positively affects gene expression profiles and metabolic pathway of high-fat diet-treated hamsters gut microbiota
Authors: Liu Qifeng
Published: February 2024

Background: Fenofibrate is a compound with diverse biological properties that can be utilized to lower blood lipids. Understanding the impact of the gut microbiota in hyperlipidemia is vital for controlling systemic inflammation and improving serum lipid control. Nevertheless, the specific effects of fenofibrate on the phenotype and gene expression of resident gut bacteria, as well as its influence on the transformation of microbial metabolism into functional networks, remain unclear. In this study, our aimed to examine the gene expression profile and metabolic pathways of the gut microbiota in a hamster model fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and administered fenofibrate.
Results: The results indicated that the group treated with fenofibrate exhibited higher levels of beneficial bacterial species associated with health, including Bacteroides ovatus, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bacteroides intestinalis, Allobaculum stercoricanis, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Bacteroides acidifaciens, in comparison to the HFD group. Additionally, analysis of metabolic pathways demonstrated that dietary fenofibrate significantly enhanced the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and pyrimidine metabolism, while reducing glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and nonribosomal peptide structures. Furthermore, these metabolic pathway changes were associated with relative alterations in the abundance of genes from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, namely K01667, K11358, K13953, K04072, K06131, K00655, K04567, K02864, K06409, K05366, K01867, K21071, and K13292. Moreover, significant changes were observed in the expression of enzymes and genes related to carbohydrate and antibiotic resistance, such as glycosyltransferase family 51 (GT51) as well as adeC, carA, and MexT.
Conclusions: Dietary fenofibrate exerted significant effects on genes and pathways related to lipid, energy, and amino acid metabolism, ultimately promoting a healthier colonic environment for the host. And these findings contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of fenofibrate and provide a valuable foundation for future experimental and clinical studies, aiming to explore its practical applications.
The association between Big Five personality traits and social anxiety symptoms in Chinese college students: a network analysis
Authors: Xing Wanying , Liu Chang , Zhang Kan , Peng Yuan , Li Xinhong , Li Kuiliang , Wei Xinyi , Wu Shengjun , Ren Lei , Liu Xufeng
Published: February 2024

Background
The concept of social anxiety (SA) has long been recognized for its heterogeneity, with individual SA symptoms varying in their relationships with predisposing factors. Despite playing a prominent role in theoretical and empirical works on SA, studies investigating the specific links between Big Five personality traits and individual SA symptoms, remain limited. This study aims to explore these unique trait-to-symptom relationships among Chinese college students using network analysis.
Methods
A regularized graphical Gaussian model was estimated among 1,239 Chinese college students. The Chinese Big Five Personality Inventory-15 and the social anxity subscale of the Self-Consciousness Scale were used to assess personality traits and SA symptoms respectively. Bridge expected influence (BEI) was utilized to quantify the relative importance of each node within the network, while the network comparison test was conducted to explore potential sex differences in the Big Five-SA relationships.
Results
The study's findings unveiled distinct associations between Big Five traits and SA symptoms. Notably, the strogest edge is between Neuroticism and symptom "Get embarrassed very easily". Furthermore, Neuroticism was found to have a strong positive bridging effect on the SA symptom cluster, especially among females, while Extraversion have a strong negative bridging effect on the SA symptom cluster.
Conclusion
These results underscore the significant influence of Neuroticism as a potential target for interventions aimed at reducing SA, particularly among women. Furthermore, personalized care strategies base on individual symptom profiles should be considered.
Cognitive and Psychological Status of Methadone Maintenance Treatment Patients in Yunnan Province and Its Influencing Factors
Authors: Yang Wen , Luo Xiao , Bi Ke , Li Yuansen , Fan Xuan , Liu Xingyu , Hu Hongwei , Luo Huayou , Zhu Mei , Xu Yu
Published: February 2024

Background: Cognitive and psychological impairments are commonly found among heroin-dependent individuals receiving methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). This study investigates the screening methods and influencing factors of cognitive and psychological impairments in this population, aiming to improve treatment adherence and social functioning in MMT patients.
Methods: In a cross-sectional study conducted from December 2022 to December 2023, a total of 293 valid questionnaires were collected and included in the study. A questionnaire survey was conducted in Yunnan Province MMT outpatient clinic, including general sociological data, SCL-90(90-item Self-rating Scale for Symptoms) questionnaire to investigate the psychological status, MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) scale to assess the cognitive function, and analysis of the factors affecting the psychological cognition of the patients. The analyses were based in part on conventional statistical testing (t-test, χ2-test,and Binary logistic regression）.
Results: (1)In our sample, the prevalence of cognitive impairment was 52.2%, with a prevalence of depressive symptoms at 64.8% and anxiety symptoms at 54.3%;（2）Influencing factors of cognitive impairment in MMT subjects with different characteristics: age level differences was statistically significant. (P < 0.05); (3) The SCL-90 scale of MMT subjects showed a statistically significant difference in the nine factors of mental symptoms compared with the Chinese positive normal mode (P < 0.001);（4）The factors affecting depression of MMT subjects with different characteristics were statistically different: whether they lived alone (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: A significant proportion of Chinese patients undergoing MMT experience depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments during the course of treatment. It is necessary to provide timely and effective psychological interventions for this high-risk population and control the influencing factors.