bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
scBridge embraces cell heterogeneity in single-cell RNA-seq and ATAC-seq data integration
Authors: Li Yunfan , Zhang Dan , Yang Mouxing , Peng Dezhong , Yu Jun , Liu Yu , Lv Jiancheng , Chen Lu , Peng Xi
Published: September 2023

Single-cell multi-omics data integration aims to reduce the omics difference while keeping the cell type difference. However, it is daunting to model and distinguish the two differences due to cell heterogeneity. Namely, even cells of the same omics and type would have various features, making the two differences less significant. In this work, we reveal that instead of being an interference, cell heterogeneity could be exploited to improve data integration. Specifically, we observe that the omics difference varies in cells, and cells with smaller omics differences are easier to be integrated. Hence, unlike most existing works that homogeneously treat and integrate all cells, we propose a multi-omics data integration method (dubbed scBridge) that integrates cells in a heterogeneous manner. In brief, scBridge iterates between i) identifying reliable scATAC-seq cells that have smaller omics differences, and ii) integrating reliable scATAC-seq cells with scRNA-seq data to narrow the omics gap, thus benefiting the integration for the rest cells. Extensive experiments on seven multi-omics datasets demonstrate the superiority of scBridge compared with six representative baselines.
CMOS backend-of-line compatible memory array and logic circuitries enabled by high performance atomic layer deposited ZnO thin-film transistor
Authors: Wang Wenhui , Li Ke , Lan Jun , Shen Mei , Wang Zhongrui , Feng Xuewei , Yu Hongyu , Chen Kai , Li Jiamin , Zhou Feichi , Lin Longyang , Zhang Panpan , Li Yida
Published: September 2023

The development of high-performance oxide-based transistors is critical to enable very large-scale integration (VLSI) of monolithic 3-D integrated circuit (IC) in complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) backend-of-line (BEOL). Atomic layer deposition (ALD) deposited ZnO is an attractive candidate due to its excellent electrical properties, low processing temperature below copper interconnect thermal budget, and conformal sidewall deposition for novel 3D architecture. An optimized ALD deposited ZnO thin-film transistor achieving a record field-effect and intrinsic mobility (µFE /µo) of 85/140 cm2/V·s is presented here. The ZnO TFT was integrated with HfO2 RRAM in a 1 kbit (32 × 32) 1T1R array, demonstrating functionalities in RRAM switching. In order to co-design for future technology requiring high performance BEOL circuitries implementation, a spice-compatible model of the ZnO TFTs was developed. We then present designs of various ZnO TFT-based inverters, and 5-stage ring oscillators through simulations and experiments with working frequency exceeding 10’s of MHz.
Extending on-surface synthesis from 2D to 3D by cycloaddition with C60
Authors: Ding Pengcheng , Wang Shaoshan , Mattioli Cristina , Li Zhuo , Shi Guoqiang , Sun Ye , Gourdon André , Kantorovich Lev , Besenbacher Flemming , Rosei Federico , Yu Miao
Published: September 2023

As an efficient molecular engineering approach, on-surface synthesis (OSS) defines a special opportunity to investigate intermolecular coupling at the sub-molecular level and has delivered many appealing polymers. So far, all OSS is based on the lateral covalent bonding of molecular precursors within a single molecular layer; extending OSS from two to three dimensions is yet to be realized. Herein, we address this challenge by cycloaddition between C60 and an aromatic compound. The C60 layer is assembled on the well-defined molecular network, allowing appropriate molecular orbital hybridization. Upon thermal activation, covalent coupling perpendicular to the surface via [4 + 2] cycloaddition between C60 and the phenyl ring of the molecule is realized; the resultant adduct shows frozen orientation and distinct sub-molecular feature at room temperature and further enables lateral covalent bonding via [2 + 2] cycloaddition. This work unlocks an unconventional route for bottom-up precise synthesis of three-dimensional covalently-bonded organic architectures/devices on surfaces.
Population genomics identifies genetic signatures of carrot domestication and improvement and uncovers the origin of high-carotenoid orange carrots
Authors: Coe Kevin , Bostan Hamed , Rolling William , Turner-Hissong Sarah , Macko-Podgórni Alicja , Senalik Douglas , Liu Su , Seth Romit , Curaba Julien , Mengist Molla Fentie , Grzebelus Dariusz , Van Deynze Allen , Dawson Julie , Ellison Shelby , Simon Philipp , Iorizzo Massimo
Published: September 2023

Here an improved carrot reference genome and resequencing of 630 carrot accessions were used to investigate carrot domestication and improvement. The study demonstrated that carrot was domesticated during the Early Middle Ages in the region spanning western Asia to central Asia, and orange carrot was selected during the Renaissance period, probably in western Europe. A progressive reduction of genetic diversity accompanied this process. Genes controlling circadian clock/flowering and carotenoid accumulation were under selection during domestication and improvement. Three recessive genes, at the REC, Or and Y2 quantitative trait loci, were essential to select for the high α- and β-carotene orange phenotype. All three genes control high α- and β-carotene accumulation through molecular mechanisms that regulate the interactions between the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway, the photosynthetic system and chloroplast biogenesis. Overall, this study elucidated carrot domestication and breeding history and carotenoid genetics at a molecular level.
A high-resolution canopy height model of the Earth
Authors: Lang Nico , Jetz Walter , Schindler Konrad , Wegner Jan Dirk
Published: September 2023

The worldwide variation in vegetation height is fundamental to the global carbon cycle and central to the functioning of ecosystems and their biodiversity. Geospatially explicit and, ideally, highly resolved information is required to manage terrestrial ecosystems, mitigate climate change and prevent biodiversity loss. Here we present a comprehensive global canopy height map at 10 m ground sampling distance for the year 2020. We have developed a probabilistic deep learning model that fuses sparse height data from the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) space-borne LiDAR mission with dense optical satellite images from Sentinel-2. This model retrieves canopy-top height from Sentinel-2 images anywhere on Earth and quantifies the uncertainty in these estimates. Our approach improves the retrieval of tall canopies with typically high carbon stocks. According to our map, only 5% of the global landmass is covered by trees taller than 30 m. Further, we find that only 34% of these tall canopies are located within protected areas. Thus, the approach can serve ongoing efforts in forest conservation and has the potential to foster advances in climate, carbon and biodiversity modelling.
High-harmonic spectroscopy of low-energy electron-scattering dynamics in liquids
Authors: Mondal Angana , Neufeld Ofer , Yin Zhong , Nourbakhsh Zahra , Svoboda Vít , Rubio Angel , Tancogne-Dejean Nicolas , Wörner Hans Jakob
Published: September 2023

High-harmonic spectroscopy is an all-optical nonlinear technique with inherent attosecond temporal resolution. It has been applied to a variety of systems in the gas phase and solid state. Here we extend its use to liquid samples. By studying high-harmonic generation over a broad range of wavelengths and intensities, we show that the cut-off energy is independent of the wavelength beyond a threshold intensity and that it is a characteristic property of the studied liquid. We explain these observations with a semi-classical model based on electron trajectories that are limited by the electron scattering. This is further confirmed by measurements performed with elliptically polarized light and with ab-initio time-dependent density functional theory calculations. Our results propose high-harmonic spectroscopy as an all-optical approach for determining the effective mean free paths of slow electrons in liquids. This regime is extremely difficult to access with other methodologies, but is critical for understanding radiation damage to living tissues. Our work also indicates the possibility of resolving subfemtosecond electron dynamics in liquids offering an all-optical approach to attosecond spectroscopy of chemical processes in their native liquid environment.
Continental United States climate projections based on thermodynamic modification of historical weather
Authors: Jones Andrew D. , Rastogi Deeksha , Vahmani Pouya , Stansfield Alyssa M. , Reed Kevin A. , Thurber Travis , Ullrich Paul A. , Rice Jennie S.
Published: September 2023

Regional climate models can be used to examine how past weather events might unfold under different climate conditions by simulating analogue versions of those events with modified thermodynamic conditions (i.e., warming signals). Here, we apply this approach by dynamically downscaling a 40-year sequence of past weather from 1980–2019 driven by atmospheric re-analysis, and then repeating this 40-year sequence a total of 8 times using a range of time-evolving thermodynamic warming signals that follow 4 80-year future warming trajectories from 2020–2099. Warming signals follow two emission scenarios (SSP585 and SSP245) and are derived from two groups of global climate models based on whether they exhibit relatively high or low climate sensitivity. The resulting dataset, which contains 25 hourly and over 200 3-hourly variables at 12 km spatial resolution, can be used to examine a plausible range of future climate conditions in direct reference to previously observed weather and enables a systematic exploration of the ways in which thermodynamic change influences the characteristics of historical extreme events.
Measuring the clustering effect of the SARS-CoV-2 transmission in a school population: a cross-sectional study in a high incidence region
Authors: Severo Milton , Meireles Paula , Ribeiro Ana Isabel , Morais Vítor , Barros Henrique
Published: September 2023

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a great deal of controversy regarding the role of schools in the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the relative contribution of students, teachers, and others. To quantify the clustering effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection within classes and schools considering the seroprevalence of specific antibodies among students and school staff (teachers and non-teachers) evaluated in schools located in the Northern region of Portugal. 1517 individuals (1307 students and 210 school staff) from 4 public and 2 private schools, comprising daycare to secondary levels, were evaluated. A rapid point-of-care test for SARS-CoV-2 specific IgM and IgG antibodies was performed and a questionnaire was completed providing sociodemographic and clinical information. We calculated the seroprevalence of IgM and IgG antibodies and estimated the Median Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to assess the clustering effect, using a multilevel (school and class) logistic regression. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence (IgM or IgG) was 21.8% and 23.8% (p = 0.575) in students and school staff, respectively. A total of 84 (8.6%) students and 35 (16.7%) school staff reported a previous molecular diagnosis. Among students, those who reported high-risk contacts only at school (OR = 1.13; 95% CI 0.72–1.78) had a seroprevalence similar to those without high-risk contacts; however, seroprevalence was significantly higher among those who only reported a high-risk contact outside the school (OR = 6.56; 95% CI 3.68–11.72), or in both places (OR = 7.83; 95% CI 5.14–11.93). Similar associations were found for school staff. The median OR was 1.00 (95% CI 1.00, 1.38) at the school-level and 1.78 (95% CI 1.40, 2.06) at the class-level. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was similar between students and staff, without a clustering effect observed at the school level, and only a moderate clustering effect documented within classes. These results indicate that the mitigation measures in the school environment can prevent the spread of class outbreaks to the remaining school community.
A novel coagulation-related lncRNA predicts the prognosis and immune of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Wensong , Chang Fan , Zhang Jianghui , Tang Shuai , Lv Zhen , Chen Fangmin
Published: September 2023

Renal cell cancer is associated with the coagulation system. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression is closely associated with the development of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The aim of this study was to build a novel lncRNA model to predict the prognosis and immunological state of ccRCC. The transcriptomic data and clinical data of ccRCC were retrieved from TCGA database, subsequently, the lasso regression and lambda spectra were used to filter prognostic lncRNAs. ROC curves and the C-index were used to confirm the predictive effectiveness of this model. We also explored the difference in immune infiltration, immune checkpoints, tumor mutation burden (TMB) and drug sensitivity between the high- and low-risk groups. We created an 8 lncRNA model for predicting the outcome of ccRCC. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that age, tumor grade, and risk score are independent prognostic factors for ccRCC patients. ROC curve and C-index revealed the model had a good performance in predicting prognosis of ccRCC. GO and KEGG analysis showed that coagulation related genes were related to immune response. In addition, high risk group had greater TMB level and higher immune checkpoints expression. Sorafenib, Imatinib, Pazopanib, and etoposide had higher half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in the high risk group whereas Sunitinib and Bosutinib had lower IC50. This novel coagulation-related long noncoding RNAs model could predict the prognosis of patients with ccRCC, and coagulation-related lncRNA may be connected to the tumor microenvironment and gene mutation of ccRCC.
Analysis of the impact of different schemes of preparation to trabeculectomy on the healing markers on the Tenon fibroblasts cultures
Authors: Piłat Joanna , Przekora Agata , Wróbel-Dudzińska Dominika , Kazimierczak Paulina , Żarnowski Tomasz , Kosior-Jarecka Ewa
Published: September 2023

The aim of the study was to assess the influence of different regimes of patient’s preparation before trabeculectomy on the markers of healing process in Tenon’s fibroblast cultures.The studied group consisted of 66 patients with open angle glaucoma undergoing primary trabeculectomy. The patients were divided into 5 groups with different regimes of preparation before the surgery based on application or withdrawal of topical antiglaucoma medications and steroids (G1—patients using antiglaucoma drops until the day of the surgery; G2—patients using antiglaucoma drops until the day of the surgery and additionally dexamethasone for 4 weeks before surgery; G3—patients who stopped using antiglaucoma drops 4 weeks before the surgery and introduced dexamethasone for 4 weeks before surgery; G4—patients who stopped using antiglaucoma drops 4 weeks before the surgery; G5—control group, patients with newly diagnosed glaucoma in whom trabeculectomy was the first treatment option without medical treatment). During trabeculectomy the samples of Tenon’s capsule were obtained. Tenon fibroblasts were isolated directly from the explants to test their proliferation ability and the level of released healing markers. Following factors typical of healing process were evaluated using commercially available ELISA kits: IL 1-β, IL-6, IL-8, VEGF-A, TGF-β1 and MMP-9. Concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6 and TGF-β1 were significantly higher in the group obtaining antiglaucoma drops. Additionally, in this group the fibroblasts revealed the highest proliferation potential, indicating the active healing process. The levels of IL-8, VEGF-A and MMP-9 were similar between the groups. Our study shows that for the best conjunctival anti-inflammatory control, the most influential factor is the withdrawal of antiglaucoma medications.
Skin and gut microbiomes of tadpoles vary differently with host and water environment: a short-term experiment using 16S metabarcoding
Authors: Santos Bárbara , Martins Filipa M. S. , Sabino-Pinto Joana , Licata Fulvio , Crottini Angelica
Published: September 2023

The host-microbiome community is influenced by several host and environmental factors. In order to disentangle the individual effects of host and environment, we performed a laboratory experiment to assess the effects of the exposure to different water sources on the skin and gut microbiome of two amphibian species (Pelophylax perezi and Bufo spinosus). We observed that the bacterial communities greatly varied with water environment and host identity. Tadpoles of B. spinosus collected from a waterbody with poorer bacterial diversity exhibited a more diverse skin and gut microbiome after exposed to a richer water source. Tadpoles of P. perezi, originally collected from a richer water environment, exhibited less marked alterations in diversity patterns independently of the water source but showed alterations in gut composition. These results highlight that environment alterations, such as the water source, combined with the host effect, impact the microbiome of amphibian species in different ways; the population history (e.g., previous water environment and habitat) of the host species may also influence future alterations on tadpole microbiome.
Fabrication and tunable reinforcement of net-shaped aluminum matrix composite parts via 3D printing
Authors: Seleznev M. L. , Roy-Mayhew J. D. , Faust J. L.
Published: September 2023

Advanced materials, such as metal matrix composites (MMCs), are important for innovation, national security, and addressing climate change. MMCs are used in military, aerospace, and automotive applications because of their exceptional mechanical and thermal properties, however adoption has been slow due to costly and onerous manufacturing processes. A new process using fused filament fabrication 3D printing has been developed to make net shape MMCs without tooling or machining. The process involves printing an alumina preform and then using pressure-less infiltration with a molten aluminum alloy to form the composite. Arbitrary shapes can be formed in this process—a brake lever and a flange are demonstrated—and the properties can be tuned by varying the ceramic infill geometric pattern and ceramic loading. By using 35 vol% continuous fiber reinforcement over 800 MPa strength and 140 GPa modulus are achieved for the aluminum composite, 3.4 × and 2 × the matrix aluminum properties.
Long-term outcome and eligibility of radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma over 3.0 cm in diameter
Authors: Tanaka Takashi , Takata Kazuhide , Miyayama Takashi , Shibata Kumiko , Fukuda Hiromi , Yamauchi Ryo , Fukunaga Atsushi , Yokoyama Keiji , Shakado Satoshi , Sakisaka Shotaro , Hirai Fumihito
Published: September 2023

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is effective for the treatment of small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a diameter ≤ 3.0 cm. The present study aimed to elucidate the prognostic factors and clarify the indication of treatment for RFA outcomes in patients with HCC with a diameter > 3.0 cm. Among 2188 patients with HCC who underwent RFA, 100 patients with HCC with a diameter > 3.0 cm were enrolled in this study between August, 2000 and August, 2021. We analyzed local therapeutic efficacy, long-term outcomes, and prognostic factors in patients with HCC with a diameter > 3.0 cm. Among all patients, 77 patients achieved complete ablation in one session. There were no treatment-related deaths or major complications. Local tumor recurrence occurred in 48% (n = 48) of the patients, and distant tumor recurrence occurred in 82% (n = 82) of the patients during the study period. The survival rates at 1-, 3-, 5-, 10-, and 15- years were 93.0%, 66.0%, 40.0%, 15.5%, and 10.2%, respectively. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis confirmed that distant tumor recurrence, Child–Pugh class B, and pre-ablation des-γ-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) levels ≥ 200 mAU/mL were independent unfavorable prognostic factors with a hazard ratio of 3.34 (95% CI, 1.57–7.11; P = 0.002), 2.43 (95% CI, 1.35–4.37; P = 0.003), and 1.83 (95% CI, 1.14–2.93; P = 0.012), respectively. In conclusion, patients with HCC with a diameter > 3.0 cm with Child–Pugh class A and DCP levels < 200 mAU/mL might be eligible for RFA treatment.
Epigenetic profiles of elevated cell free circulating H3.1 nucleosomes as potential biomarkers for non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Van den Ackerveken Priscilla , Lobbens Alison , Pamart Dorian , Kotronoulas Aristotelis , Rommelaere Guillaume , Eccleston Mark , Herzog Marielle
Published: September 2023

During cell death, nucleosomes, the basic structural unit of chromatin, are released into the blood stream and elevated levels have been found in the plasma of patients with solid cancers. In this study, we demonstrate an increase in cell free circulating H3.1-nucleosomes levels in plasma samples from patients with hematological malignancy, non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), relative to healthy donors. As histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) of circulating nucleosomes are described as potential biomarkers of various solid cancers, we investigated the epigenetic profile of nucleosomes from NHL patients following nucleosome enrichment (Nu.Q® capture) combined with mass spectrometry. Eight histones PTMs, including the acetylation of histone H3 at lysine 9, 14 and 18 as well as the methylation state of histone H3 at lysine 9, 27 and 36, were identified at a higher level in the plasma of NHL patients compared to healthy donors. These results were confirmed in a larger clinical cohort by immunoassay. Subsequently, the temporal profile of these histone PTMs in NHL patients undergoing treatment course highlighted the potential use of these new biomarkers to monitor treatment response and/or disease progression. Our results substantiate that levels of H3.1-nucleosomes are particularly elevated in NHL patients and may be a useful diagnostic tool. Moreover, our work emphasizes the crucial roles of the epigenetic marks present on circulating nucleosomes to detect and monitor tumor progression and/or treatment response of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Rice straw-derived cellulose: a comparative study of various pre-treatment technologies and its conversion to nanofibres
Authors: Sharma Neha , Allardyce Benjamin James , Rajkhowa Rangam , Agrawal Ruchi
Published: September 2023

Rice straw is a waste product generated after the harvesting of rice crops and is commonly disposed of by burning it off in open fields. This study explored the potential for the extraction and conversion of cellulose to cellulose nanofibres (CNFs) to be used as smart delivery systems for fertilizers applications. In this study, alkali, steam explosion, and organosolv treatments were investigated for cellulose extraction efficiency. The morphological characterization of cellulose showed smooth fibrillar structures. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy represented significant removal of non-cellulosic components in treatments. The crystallinity increased from 52.2 to 65% in CNFs after fibrillation. Cellulose nanofibres (CNFs) had an average diameter of 37.4 nm and − 25.2 mV surface charges as determined by SEM and zeta potential, respectively, which have desired properties for holding fertilizers. Therefore, this study paves the way for value-added uses of rice straw as alternatives to current environmentally harmful practices.
Hexavalent chromium release over time from a pyrolyzed Cr-bearing tannery sludge
Authors: Ghezzi Lisa , Mugnaioli Enrico , Perchiazzi Natale , Duce Celia , Pelosi Chiara , Zamponi Erika , Pollastri Simone , Campanella Beatrice , Onor Massimo , Abdellatief Mahmoud , Franceschini Fabrizio , Petrini Riccardo
Published: September 2023

Pyrolysis in an inert atmosphere is a widely applied route to convert tannery wastes into reusable materials. In the present study, the Cr(III) conversion into the toxic hexavalent form in the pyrolyzed tannery waste referred to as KEU was investigated. Ageing experiments and leaching tests demonstrated that the Cr(III)–Cr(VI) inter-conversion occurs in the presence of air at ambient temperature, enhanced by wet environmental conditions. Microstructural analysis revealed that the Cr-primary mineral assemblage formed during pyrolysis (Cr-bearing srebrodolskite and Cr-magnetite spinel) destabilized upon spray water cooling in the last stage of the process. In the evolution from the higher to the lower temperature mineralogy, Cr is incorporated into newly formed CrOOH flakes which likely react in air forming extractable Cr(VI) species. This property transforms KEU from an inert waste to a hazardous material when exposed to ordinary ambient conditions.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor as a biomarker in cancer-related cognitive impairment among adolescent and young adult cancer patients
Authors: Ng Ding Quan , Cheng Ivy , Wang Claire , Tan Chia Jie , Toh Yi Long , Koh Yong Qin , Ke Yu , Foo Koon Mian , Chan Raymond J. , Ho Han Kiat , Chew Lita , bin Harunal Rashid Mohamad Farid , Chan Alexandre
Published: September 2023

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) improves cognitive function by stimulating neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. We hypothesize that higher plasma BDNF levels are protective against cognitive toxicity among adolescent and young adult cancer patients (15–39 years old). In a prospective, longitudinal study, we recruited 74 newly diagnosed cancer and 118 age-matched non-cancer controls who completed the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognitive Function questionnaire (FACT-Cog) and blood draws. Plasma BDNF was quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Genomic DNA from buffy coat was genotyped for BDNF Val66Met. Most cancer participants were diagnosed with breast (24%) and head/neck (22%) cancers. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables (age, gender, race, marital status, education years), cancer participants had lower BDNF levels (ng/mL) at baseline (median: 10.7 vs 21.6, p < 0.001) and 6-months post-baseline (median: 8.2 vs 15.3, p = 0.001) compared to non-cancer controls. Through linear mixed modelling adjusted for sociodemographic variables, baseline cognition, fatigue, psychological distress, and time, we observed that among cancer participants, lower baseline BDNF levels were associated with worse attention (p = 0.029), memory (p = 0.018) and self-perceived cognitive abilities (p = 0.020) during cancer treatment. Met/Met was associated with enhanced executive function compared to Val/Val (p = 0.012). Plasma BDNF may serve as a predictive biomarker of cancer-related cognitive impairment.
A numerical control machining tool path step error prediction method based on BP neural network
Authors: Zhang Zi-Yu , Liu Wei , Li Peng-Fei , Zhang Jia-Ping , Fan Lv-Yang
Published: September 2023

Step error calculation of numerical control (NC) machining tool path is a premise for generating high-quality tool path and promoting its application. At present, iterative methods are generally used to calculate step error, and the computation time increases when accuracy improves. Neural networks can be calculated on GPUs and cloud platforms, which is conducive to reducing computation time and improving accuracy through continuous learning. This article innovatively introduces a BP neural network model to predict step error values. Firstly, the core parameters required for step error calculation are taken as the data samples to construct the neural network model, and map to the same scale through Z-score normalization to eliminate the adverse effects of singular parameters on the calculation results. Then, considering only a small number of parameters determine theoretical values of step error, the Dropout technique can drop hidden layer neurons with a certain probability, which is helpful to avoid overfitting and used in the neural network model design. In the neural network model training, this paper adds the Stochastic Gradient Descent with Momentum (SGDM) optimizer to the back propagation of network training in order to improves the network’ stability and accuracy. The proposed neural network predicts step error of samples from three surface models, the results show that the prediction error decreases as sample training increases. After trained by 15% of the surface samples, the neural network predicts the step errors of the remaining samples. Compared with theoretical values, more than 99% of the predicted values have an absolute error less than 1 μm. Moreover, the cost time is only one-third of the geometric method, which verifies the effectiveness and efficiency of our method.
Untangling behaviours: independent expressions of female–female aggression and snake-like hissing in the blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus)
Authors: van Iersel Robin , Boiten Gust , Pinxten Rianne , Eens Marcel
Published: September 2023

Aggression plays a crucial role in deterring predators and securing resources to promote fitness. Nevertheless, studies focussing on female aggression remain scarce. In songbirds, aggression is prevalent during the breeding season, when same-sex individuals compete for limited resources. Additionally, females of some bird species exhibit snake-like hissing behaviour during incubation presumably to lower predation rates and improve fitness. Such behaviours may co-vary, forming a behavioural syndrome that could constrain trait expression. Here, we investigated a resident population of blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus), to examine the repeatability and covariation of female–female aggression and hissing behaviour, aiming to determine if these constitute a behavioural syndrome. We quantified female–female aggression during simulated territorial intrusions and measured number of hissing calls in response to a simulated predator intrusion into the nest box. We found that both female–female aggression and hissing behaviour were repeatable traits, and that older females approached the intruder less. However, we found no evidence of covariation between female–female aggression and hissing behaviour. Thus, our findings suggest that female–female aggression and hissing behaviour, although both displayed in a nest defence context, are evolutionarily independent traits in the blue tit.
Deep representation learning identifies associations between physical activity and sleep patterns during pregnancy and prematurity
Authors: Ravindra Neal G. , Espinosa Camilo , Berson Eloïse , Phongpreecha Thanaphong , Zhao Peinan , Becker Martin , Chang Alan L. , Shome Sayane , Marić Ivana , De Francesco Davide , Mataraso Samson , Saarunya Geetha , Thuraiappah Melan , Xue Lei , Gaudillière Brice , Angst Martin S. , Shaw Gary M. , Herzog Erik D. , Stevenson David K. , England Sarah K. , Aghaeepour Nima
Published: September 2023

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of infant mortality globally. Research has focused on developing predictive models for PTB without prioritizing cost-effective interventions. Physical activity and sleep present unique opportunities for interventions in low- and middle-income populations (LMICs). However, objective measurement of physical activity and sleep remains challenging and self-reported metrics suffer from low-resolution and accuracy. In this study, we use physical activity data collected using a wearable device comprising over 181,944 h of data across N = 1083 patients. Using a new state-of-the art deep learning time-series classification architecture, we develop a ‘clock’ of healthy dynamics during pregnancy by using gestational age (GA) as a surrogate for progression of pregnancy. We also develop novel interpretability algorithms that integrate unsupervised clustering, model error analysis, feature attribution, and automated actigraphy analysis, allowing for model interpretation with respect to sleep, activity, and clinical variables. Our model performs significantly better than 7 other machine learning and AI methods for modeling the progression of pregnancy. We found that deviations from a normal ‘clock’ of physical activity and sleep changes during pregnancy are strongly associated with pregnancy outcomes. When our model underestimates GA, there are 0.52 fewer preterm births than expected (P = 1.01e − 67, permutation test) and when our model overestimates GA, there are 1.44 times (P = 2.82e − 39, permutation test) more preterm births than expected. Model error is negatively correlated with interdaily stability (P = 0.043, Spearman’s), indicating that our model assigns a more advanced GA when an individual’s daily rhythms are less precise. Supporting this, our model attributes higher importance to sleep periods in predicting higher-than-actual GA, relative to lower-than-actual GA (P = 1.01e − 21, Mann-Whitney U). Combining prediction and interpretability allows us to signal when activity behaviors alter the likelihood of preterm birth and advocates for the development of clinical decision support through passive monitoring and exercise habit and sleep recommendations, which can be easily implemented in LMICs.
Microencapsulation of alcohol solvents and high-content actives for efficient transdermal delivery
Authors: Lee Je Hyun , Hwang Yoon-Ho , Noh Minjoo , Lee Ji Hyun , Lee Jun Bae , Lee Hyomin
Published: September 2023

Alcohol solvents are encapsulated in palm oil-based microcapsules for the effective transdermal delivery of high-content actives.
Selective copper-catalysed atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) in water under environmentally benign conditions
Authors: Phiromphu Nutchanikan , Juthathan Methasit , Suktanarak Pattira , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol , Tuntulani Thawatchai , Leeladee Pannee
Published: September 2023

A copper-catalysed ATRA reaction in water under eco-friendly conditions was developed in the presence of a polysorbate surfactant. This simple system can be used under ambient atmosphere with high catalytic efficiency and selectivity.
N-Coordinated tellurenium(ii) and telluronium(iv) cations: synthesis, structure and hydrolysis
Authors: Hejda Martin , Doležal Lukáš , Blahut Jan , Hupf Emanuel , Tydlitát Jiří , Jambor Roman , Růžička Aleš , Beckmann Jens , Dostál Libor
Published: September 2023

A set of tellurenium and dichlorotelluronium cations supported by (N),C,N-chelating ligands was synthesized, their Lewis acidity was ascertained by the Gutmann–Beckett method and hydrolysis of dichlorotelluronium was described.
Facile solvothermal preparation of an organic hybrid dysprosium selenidoantimonate for an efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Guo Xin , Cao Shu-mei , Liu Xing , Huang Chunmei , Zhou Jian
Published: September 2023

This work offers the first example of the organic hybrid dysprosium chalcogenidoantimonate applied as an OER electrocatalyst.
Unleashing lactoferrin's antidepressant potential through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in chronic restraint stress rats
Authors: Ahmed Hanan H. , Essam Reham M. , El-Yamany Muhammed F. , Ahmed Kawkab A. , El-Sahar Ayman E.
Published: September 2023

The effects of CRS on inducing depression and the beneficial effect of LF in halting depression through mitigating ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines, restoring corticosterone, 5-HT and BDNF levels, and modulating the hippocampal PI3K/Akt/mTOR/GSK-3β pathway were studied.
Analytical electron microscopy study of the composition of BaHfO3 nanoparticles in REBCO films: the influence of rare-earth ionic radii and REBCO composition
Authors: Grünewald Lukas , Cayado Pablo , Erbe Manuela , Hänisch Jens , Holzapfel Bernhard , Gerthsen Dagmar
Published: September 2023

Analytical TEM study of the rare-earth element (REE) intermixing between different REBa2Cu3O7−δ samples with embedded BaHfO3 nanoparticles. REEs with smaller ionic radii are incorporated with higher concentrations in BaHfO3.
Developing energy-efficient N-doping technology to controllably construct N-Ru2P@Ru nanospheres for highly efficient hydrogen evolution at an ampere-level current density
Authors: Wang Mengmeng , Du Yunmei , Li Shuangshuang , Sun Xiaoli , Li Bin , Gu Yuanxiang , Wang Lei
Published: September 2023

The current density of the N-Ru2P@Ru catalyst (963 mA cm−2) with a core–shell structure at an overpotential of 150 mV is 2.6 times that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst (359 mA cm−2).
Direct organocatalytic transfer hydrogenation and C–H oxidation: high-yielding synthesis of 3-hydroxy-3-alkyloxindoles
Authors: Roy Pritam , Anjum S. Rehana , Sanwal Shyam D. , Ramachary Dhevalapally B.
Published: September 2023

A two-step, high-yielding transfer hydrogenation/C–H oxidation protocol has been developed for the synthesis of 3-alkyl-3-hydroxyoxindoles and medicinally important 3-cyanomethyl-3-hydroxyoxindole, and formal total synthesis of (±)-alline and (±)-CPC-I.
Naphthalene-based semiconducting microporous polyimides for high-efficiency photo-catalytic dye degradation
Authors: Lei Yujie , Lin Bo , Wang Jieyao , Chen Wangzhi , Dai Xiaoxuan , Ma Xingyu , Li Lei
Published: September 2023

Naphthalene-based semiconducting microporous polyimides (MPIs) were prepared within 30 min via a solvothermal method and used for photo-catalysis, achieving efficient photo-degradation of methylene blue (MB) and rhodamine B (RhB).
Palladium nanoparticles on gallium nitride as a Mott–Schottky catalyst for efficient and durable photoactivation of unactivated alkanes
Authors: Tan Lida , Kong Xianghua , Liu Mingxin , Su Hui , Guo Hong , Li Chao-Jun
Published: September 2023

The direct functionalization of inert C–H bonds has long been a “holy grail” for the chemistry world.
Synthetic ramoplanin analogues are accessible by effective incorporation of arylglycines in solid-phase peptide synthesis
Authors: Marschall Edward , Cass Rachel W. , Prasad Komal M. , Swarbrick James D. , McKay Alasdair I. , Payne Jennifer A. E. , Cryle Max J. , Tailhades Julien
Published: September 2023

Optimized solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) conditions allow the incorporation of multiple arylglycine residues which is offering a new perspective on the peptide antibiotic ramoplanin.
Red-light-mediated Barton decarboxylation reaction and one-pot wavelength-selective transformations
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroki , Yamaoka Kohei , Shinohara Ann , Shibata Kouhei , Takao Ken-ichi , Ogura Akihiro
Published: September 2023

Red-light-mediated Barton decarboxylation using catalytic zinc tetraphenylporphyrin was developed. One-pot wavelength-selective reaction within the visible light range was achieved in combination with blue-light-mediated photoredox reaction.
Pd12MnL24 (for n = 6, 8, 12) nanospheres by post-assembly modification of Pd12L24 spheres
Authors: Bobylev Eduard. O. , Passerini Leonardo , de Zwart Felix J. , Poole David A. , Mathew Simon , Huber Martina , de Bruin Bas , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: September 2023

Selective post-assembly modification of Pd12L24 nanospheres leads to nanospheres with exactly 6, 8 or 12 transition metal complexes at precise positions. The strategy leads to materials with unique composition and geometrical features.
Methanol-assisted energy-saving green hydrogen production using electrodeposited 3D-metallic tin as an electrocatalyst
Authors: Sajeev Aparna , Krishnamoorthy Karthikeyan , Pazhamalai Parthiban , Bhunia Kousik , Sathyaseelan Arunprasath , Kim Sang-Jae
Published: September 2023

Electrodeposited 3D metallic tin on nickel foam as an efficient electrocatalyst for sustainable hydrogen production.
Phase-engineered two-dimensional MoO3/MoS2 hybrid nanostructures enable efficient indoor organic photovoltaics
Authors: Saeed Muhammad Ahsan , Faizan Muhammad , Kim Tae Hyuk , Ahn Hyungju , Kim Ji-Young , Nam Kyung-Wan , Shim Jae Won
Published: September 2023

Organic photovoltacis (OPVs) with MoO3/MoS2 nanostrucutres demonstrated 27.9% indoor efficiency. The TMSs nanosheets in active layers exhibit improved absorption, denser molecular packing, large mobilities, and reduced trap-assisted recombination.
A UV-responsive mechanically robust insulating polymer that achieves intrinsic self-healing of electrical tree damage based on reversible anthracene photodimerization
Authors: Sun Potao , Shi Zeyan , Sima Wenxia , Tang Xinyu , Yuan Tao , Yang Ming , Xu Hang , Li Zhaoping
Published: September 2023

Intrinsic self-healing epoxy resin based on reversible anthracene photo dimerization achieves efficient self-healing of scratch damage and electrical tree damage, while maintains high mechanical strength throughout the healing process.
A novel read circuit for RRAM based on RC delay effect
Authors: Ye Jiabao , Cui Xuecheng , Bi Haoxiong , Cao Jifang , Wang Wannian , Xu Xiaoxin , Liu Dong , Chen Bing
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a novel Resistive Random‐Access Memory (RRAM) read circuit has been designed and verified by simulation based on the RRAM model and parasitic capacitance of the circuit. Simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed circuit, with accurate reading of RRAM states and fast reading speed in the nanosecond range. The sense margin of the proposed circuit has improved as the array size increases, enhancing its application for advanced node RRAM array manufacture. Compared with conventional circuits, the proposed circuit achieved power consumption reduction of 6% and area reduction of 46.9 um2, resulting in a 97.5% reduction in area, providing an effective solution to address the cost and chip size challenges associated with RRAM industrialization.
Overview of ionosphere clutter suppression for high frequency surface wave radar (HFSWR) system: Observation, approaches, challenges and open issue
Authors: Ji Xiaowei , Wu Xiaochuan , Yang Qiang , Zhang Xin
Published: September 2023

A great interest has been directed towards high frequency surface wave radar (HFSWR), because it is applied as long‐range early warning and real‐time measurements of sea surface condition tools in maritime surveillance. However, the unwanted reflection from the ionosphere (ionosphere clutter) damages the consistent detection performance of HFSWR. Target detection and environmental information extraction from radar echoes are primarily determined by the extent to which the medium contaminates the transmitted signals. Although the ionospheric signal corruption mechanisms are complex and various, a number of eliminating contamination approaches have been developed in the last 50 years. The purpose of this paper is providing an overview of the past and current clutter theoretical models and clutter suppression techniques for HFSWR system. The experimental results involved in the complex long‐term ionosphere observation and ionosphere echo analysis are first discussed. Special attention is paid to the correlation between the signal degradation sources and eliminating clutter techniques. Furthermore, the clutter suppression methods are classified based on the design idea. The specific clutter suppression methods as well as its operation principle are briefly introduced. Finally, several research trends and open issues are presented, with emphasis on the need for proactively controlling the radar design cost and generally agreed‐upon standards.
Anomalous orbital expansion of the low-mass X-ray binary 2A 1822-371: the existence of a circumbinary disk?
Authors: Wei Na , Jiang Long , Chen Wen-Cong
Published: September 2023

Source 2A 1822-371 is an eclipsing low-mass X-ray binary (LMXB) consisting of a neutron star (NS) and a ∼0.5 M⊙donor star in an orbit of 5.57 h. Based on the timing of the eclipse arrival times, this source was found to experience a rapid orbital expansion with an orbital period derivative asṖorb= (1.51 ± 0.05) × 10−10s s−1, implying that the mass-transfer rate is probably higher than at least three times the Eddington accretion rate. The standard magnetic braking (MB) model cannot produce a mass-transfer rate this high. The modified MB model can produce a high mass-transfer rate, resulting in a highṖorb. We propose an alternative model to account for the anomalously high mass-transfer rate andṖorbof 2A 1822-371. During the mass transfer, a tiny fraction of the transferred material is thought to form a circumbinary (CB) disk around the LMXB, which can efficiently extract orbital angular momentum from the system by the interaction between the CB disk and the binary. We used the MESA code to model the formation and evolution of 2A 1822-371 for different CB-disk masses. When the CB-disk mass is 2.3 × 10−8 M⊙, the simulation can reproduce the observed donor-star mass, orbital period, and orbital period derivative. This CB disk can accelerate the evolution of the binary and produce a high mass-transfer rate of 1.9 × 10−7M⊙yr−1, driving the binary to evolve toward a wide-orbit system. Therefore, we propose that CB disks may cause the rapid orbital changes observed in some LMXBs.
Decoding the IRX–β dust attenuation relation in star-forming galaxies at intermediate redshift
Authors: Hamed M. , Pistis F. , Figueira M. , Małek K. , Nanni A. , Buat V. , Pollo A. , Vergani D. , Bolzonella M. , Junais  , Krywult J. , Takeuchi T. , Riccio G. , Moutard T.
Published: September 2023

Aims. We aim to understand what drives the IRX–β dust attenuation relation at intermediate redshifts (0.5 < z < 0.8) in star-forming galaxies. We investigate the role of various galaxy properties in shaping this observed relation.

Methods. We used robust [O II]λ3727, [O III]λλ4959,5007, and Hβ line detections of our statistical sample of 1049 galaxies to estimate the gas-phase metallicities. We derived key physical properties that are necessary to study galaxy evolution, such as the stellar masses and the star formation rates, using the spectral energy distribution fitting tool CIGALE. Equivalently, we studied the effect of galaxy morphology (mainly the Sérsic index n and galaxy inclination) on the observed IRX–β scatter. We also investigated the role of the environment in shaping dust attenuation in our sample.

Results. We find a strong correlation with respect to the IRX–β relation on the gas-phase metallicity in our sample, as well as a strong correlation with galaxy compactness characterized by the Sérsic indexes. With higher metallicities, galaxies move along the track of the IRX–β relation towards higher IRX. Correlations are also seen with the stellar masses, specific star formation rates, and the stellar ages of our sources. Metallicity is strongly correlated with the IRX–β scatter, which also results from the presence of older stars and higher masses at higher beta values. Galaxies with higher metallicities show higher IRX and beta values. The correlation with specific dust mass strongly shifts the galaxies away from the IRX–β relation towards lower β values. We find that more compact galaxies go through a greater amount of attenuation than less compact galaxies. There is a subtle variation in the dust attenuation scatter between edge-on and face-on galaxies, but the difference is not statistically significant. Galaxy environments do not significantly affect dust attenuation in our sample of star-forming galaxies at intermediate redshift.