bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gravity Modelling Insights into Crustal Structure: Moho Depth and Subsurface Structures in Central Sulawesi
Authors: Hanif Muhammad , Handayani Lina , Rizkita Puji Anggraini , Patria Adi , Ramdhan Mohamad
Published: July 2024

The present study examines the underlying structures and Moho depth’s geological implications in Central Sulawesi. Comprehending the underlying features of this area is essential for evaluating seismic risks and geological mechanisms. From the World Gravity Map 2012 (WGM 2012), we used a 2D radially-averaged power spectrum analysis of Bouguer gravity anomalies. The Moho depth is around 31 km in the northwest and northeast, with significant fluctuations in the middle and eastern regions. Although the northeastern and northwestern regions have similar depths, the center region has a lower Moho depth. On the other hand, the Palu-Koro Fault limit is marked by the eastern area, which corresponds to the Matano Fault, mirroring the center region. Furthermore, substantial orogenesis inside the Eastern Tokorondo Complex is suggested by Moho depth thinning, especially in the central, eastern, and southern portions. Our research emphasizes Central Sulawesi’s complicated geological structures, marked by variable Moho depth and underlying formations. With implications for earthquake risk assessment and hazard reduction, these insights advance our knowledge of the region’s geological processes.
Facies Analysis and Sequence Stratigraphy of Plio-Pleistocene Fan Delta Deposits in the East Arm Sulawesi, a case study of Biak Formation, Luwuk, Banggai
Authors: Novian M I , Barianto D H , Surjono S S
Published: July 2024

Fan delta deposits were found widespread in the east arm of Sulawesi as the area experienced tectonic uplift during Plio-Pleistocene continental collision, known as Bongka Formation in the western part and Biak Formation in the eastern part. One of key outcrops for Biak Formation was observed in Biak Village, North Luwuk District, Banggai Regency, thus served as the lithotype location for the Biak Formation. The outcrop was a roadcut and had a 50 m long and 25 m high. In general it shows a coarse-grained heterolithic inclined strata dipping southward and overlain by horizontal strata of similar facies.

Its sequence stratigraphy was analyzed by examine its facies, facies association, petrography, and paleontology, along a 1:100 scaled measured section. Six lithofacies were identified, namely conglomeratic coralline limestone, conglomeratic coralline limestone, parallel bedding – gradation conglomerate-sandstone, gravely sandstone, conglomerate-sandstone – conglomeratic corraline limestone and gradation conglomerate-sandstone with horizontal bedding. Their lithofacies deposited during Late Pliocene in a transition – inner neritic environment. Their facies association made several depositional system tracts, showing a complete cycle of Highstand System Tract (HST), Sequence Boundary/Correlative Conformity (SB/CC), Lowstand System Tract (LST), Transgressive System Tract (TST), Transgressive Surface (TS) later capped by younger HST and LST.

Result of this study suggesting repetitive cyclic depositiona tracts dictated by sea-level eustacy and tectonic uplift. This location served as an ideal outcrop as a textbook example to study sequence stratigraphy in an outcrop scale.
Imaging the Fault Plane Structure of Palu-Koro Fault from Earthquake Data Using Python
Authors: At-diena Putrie Khenrosta , Husein Salahuddin
Published: July 2024

Palu-Koro Fault is one of the active faults located in Sulawesi and positioned in the middle of the Island, dividing the west and east-southeast arms. Its long history of earthquakes provides sufficient focal mechanisms data to be analyzed. This research used seven focal mechanism data of shallow magnitude earthquakes surrounding the pull-apart basin area of the Palu-Koro Fault. The focal mechanism data used is secondary data obtained containing the information needed. This research aims to create a 3D model of the pull-apart basin displaying the geometries of the fault planes and providing a closer look at the fault system surrounding the bounding fault zones. Python script was made to classify the mechanism of each earthquake based on its correlation to the trend of the Palu-Koro Fault. Nodal planes are categorized as whether it is presumed to be the fault plane or the auxiliary plane of the focal mechanism. The result found that not all earthquake data was classified through the assumed parameter set. Only five of seven earthquake data managed to be classified, while the rest showed a different focal mechanism. It is found from the python script created revealed the presence of three fault types: normal fault, normal left lateral oblique fault, and left lateral strike-slip. The 3D fault plane interpolation showed two distinct dipping directions, suggesting their association with the basin’s bounding fault, either the west or the east side. From the gathered information, previous research, and geological interpretation, the earthquake data can be concluded into three fault associations to the bounding fault: synthetic extension fault, antithetic extension fault, and sinistral strike-slip fault.
Identification of Subsurface Structure Causing Liquefaction in Palu City Based on Gravity Anomaly
Authors: Dani Wardhana Dadan , Muslim Dicky , Zakaria Zufialdi , Tohari Adrin , Soebowo Eko
Published: July 2024

Liquefaction in Balaroa and Petobo, Palu City occurred following the September 28 2023 earthquake which was triggered by movement of the Palu-Koro fault. It is necessary to study the existence of local geological factors which may be the cause of liquefaction in these areas. One of the contributing factors could be the existence of small structures as a follow-up to the main structure of the Palu-Koro fault. Using gravity methods at both regional scales for the Palu area and detailed scales in the Balaroa and Petobo areas to identify the presence of subsurface structures. In June 2023, gravity measurements were carried out after the Palu-Donggala earthquake in the Palu City and its surroundings. The measurement results of the gravity anomaly map in the Palu City are in the range of gravity anomaly between -4 – 66 mGals. The Balaroa region is in the gravity anomaly between 19.5 – 34.5 mGals, while Petobo is in the range -2 – 10 mGals. The gravity anomaly map shows the appearance of a structure which is characterized by the contrast of the anomalies which form a lineament which is believed to be a structure. The results of the analysis of gravity anomalies confirm the existence of small structures trending west-east and north-south in the Balaroa and Petobo liquefaction areas which may be one of the causes of liquefaction.
Aesthetics and Ethics in Anna Jameson’s Characteristics of Women
Authors: Stone Alison
Published: July 2024

Anna Jameson, celebrated in her time for her writings on art, was almost totally ignored in the twentieth century. This chapter reintroduces Jameson’s philosophy of art. Unlike Harriet Martineau Jameson did not want to subordinate the aesthetic to the ethical, but believed that the two must be equally balanced. This chapter looks at how Jameson struck that balance in her 1832 work Characteristics of Women: Moral, Poetical, and Historical. Shakespeare’s female characters provide moral examples of various sorts: they are role models, warnings, or a mixture of the two. The characters only provide moral examples because they are rounded, psychologically complete, and therefore aesthetic wholes. Artworks in turn are wholes when they depict characters who are aesthetic wholes. Since wholeness confers aesthetic value, artworks can only be aesthetically good if they are also morally good, presenting characters that serve as moral examples.
The Fate of Nineteenth-Century Women Philosophers of Art
Authors: Stone Alison
Published: July 2024

The chapter sums up how women made crucial contributions to nineteenth-century British philosophy of art and explains how our standard narratives about this period could be enriched by taking women into account. The chapter then looks at how the seven women discussed in the book tended to equate aesthetics with philosophy of the arts, and to conflate aesthetic and artistic value. They therefore said little about the aesthetics of nature or the sublime. Furthermore, they largely accepted the hierarchy of the arts and the established canon. Finally, the chapter traces how these women went from fame in their own times to invisibility in the twentieth century, looking at such factors as citation practices, academic professionalization, and the rise of modernism.
Human amniotic epithelial cells improve uterine spiral artery remodeling to ameliorate preeclampsia in a rat model
Authors: Geng Lanxin , Qin Zuchao , Han Ting-Li , Zhou Yanqiu , Zhong Xiaocui , Zhang Guanghui , Dong Xiaojing
Published: July 2024

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem pregnancy disorder characterized by impaired remodeling of placental spiral arteries, which leads to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-angiogenic agents. However, treatment options for PE are limited, with termination of pregnancy being the only curative option. In this work, we investigated the effects of human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) in PE rat model. The rats were induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on gestational day 14.5 followed by injection of hAECs and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells 24 h later. The hAECs treatment resulted in a reduction in blood pressure and proteinuria in the PE rat model. Furthermore, hAECs treatment decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduced inflammatory cells aggregation, and alleviated the damage to placental spiral arteries by downregulating the expression of anti-angiogenic factor and upregulating proangiogenic factor. In vitro experiments confirmed that hAECs treatment restored the proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of LPS-damaged human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Additionally, hAECs treatment had positive effects on fetal weight and neurological development in the PE group, with no negative effects on the physical development or fertility of offspring rats. These results suggested that hAECs transplantation may be a novel adjuvant therapeutic strategy for PE by reducing the inflammatory and enhancing placental spiral artery angiogenesis.
Prevalence and outcome of secondary hypogonadism in male patients with Cushing's syndrome and mild autonomous cortisol secretion
Authors: Nowak Elisabeth , Vogel Frederick , Braun Leah , Zopp Stephanie , Rubinstein German , Schilbach Katharina , Bidlingmaier Martin , Zimmermann Petra , Thorsteinsdottir Jun , R O L Schweizer Júnia , Ritzel Katrin , Beuschlein Felix , Reincke Martin
Published: July 2024

Background

Secondary hypogonadism (SH) is common in men with Cushing's syndrome (CS), but its impact on comorbidities is largely unknown and longitudinal data are scarce. If SH also affects men with mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) is unknown.

Methods

We included 30 treatment-naïve adult men with CS and 17 men with MACS diagnosed since 2012. Hypogonadism was diagnosed based on total testosterone (TT) concentrations < 10.4 nmol/L and age-specific cut-offs. Outcomes were compared to age- and BMI-matched controls. In 20 men in remission of CS, a longitudinal analysis was conducted at 6, 12, and 24 months.

Results

Men with CS had significantly lower concentrations of TT, bioavailable T, and free T compared to controls (P < .0001) with lowest concentrations in ectopic CS. Likewise, TT was lower in men with MACS compared to controls. At baseline, 93% of men with CS and 59% of men with MACS had SH. Testosterone correlated negatively with late night salivary cortisol and serum cortisol pre- and post-1 mg dexamethasone suppression test. Following successful surgery, TT increased significantly (P = .001), normalising within 6 months. Despite normalisation, several RBC parameters remained lower in men with CS even 2 years after successful surgery.

Conclusions

Secondary hypogonadism is common in men with CS and MACS but usually reversible after successful surgery. The persisting changes observed in RBC parameters need to be further investigated in larger cohorts and longer follow-up durations.
Probing T-cell activation in nanoliter tumor co-cultures using membrane displacement trap arrays
Authors: Yeh Michael , Salazar-Cavazos Emanuel , Krishnan Anagha , Altan-Bonnet Grégoire , DeVoe Don L
Published: July 2024

Immune responses against cancer are inherently stochastic, with small numbers of individual T cells within a larger ensemble of lymphocytes initiating the molecular cascades that lead to tumor cytotoxicity. A potential source of this intra-tumor variability is the differential ability of immune cells to respond to tumor cells. Classical microwell co-cultures of T cells and tumor cells are inadequate for reliably culturing and analyzing low cell numbers needed to probe this variability, and have failed in recapitulating the heterogeneous small domains observed in tumors. Here we leverage a membrane displacement trap array technology that overcomes limitations of conventional microwell plates for immunodynamic studies. The microfluidic platform supports on-demand formation of dense nanowell cultures under continuous perfusion reflecting the tumor microenvironment, with real-time monitoring of T cell proliferation and activation within each nanowell. The system enables selective ejection of cells for profiling by fluorescence activated cell sorting, allowing observed on-chip variability in immune response to be correlated with off-chip quantification of T cell activation. The technology offers new potential for probing the molecular origins of T cell heterogeneity and identifying specific cell phenotypes responsible for initiating and propagating immune cascades within tumors.

Insight Box Variability in T cell activation plays a critical role in the immune response against cancer. New tools are needed to unravel the mechanisms that drive successful anti-tumor immune response, and to support the development of novel immunotherapies utilizing rare T cell phenotypes that promote effective immune surveillance. To this end, we present a microfluidic cell culture platform capable of probing differential T cell activation in an array of nanoliter-scale wells coupled with off-chip cell analysis, enabling a high resolution view of variable immune response within tumor / T cell co-cultures containing cell ensembles orders of magnitude smaller than conventional well plate studies.
Host genetic variation and specialized metabolites from wheat leaves enriches for phyllosphere Pseudomonas spp. with enriched antibiotic resistomes
Authors: Xiang Qian , Lin Da , Yang Zai-Jun , Han Rui-Xia , Zhang Tian-Lun , Chen Qing-Lin , Zhu Dong , Penuelas Josep , Zhu Yong-Guan
Published: July 2024

Antibiotic resistance in plant-associated microbiomes poses significant risks for agricultural ecosystems and human health. Although accumulating evidence suggests a role for plant genotypes in shaping their microbiome, almost nothing is known about how the changes of plant genetic information affect the co-evolved plant microbiome carrying antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Here, we selected 16 wheat cultivars and experimentally explored the impact of host genetic variation on phyllosphere microbiome, ARGs, and metabolites. Our results demonstrated that host genetic variation significantly influenced the phyllosphere resistomes. Wheat genotypes exhibiting high phyllosphere ARGs were linked to elevated Pseudomonas populations, along with increased abundances of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation genes. Further analysis of 350 Pseudomonas spp. genomes from diverse habitats at a global scale revealed that nearly all strains possess multiple ARGs, virulence factor genes (VFGs), and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) on their genomes, albeit with lower nucleotide diversity compared to other species. These findings suggested that the proliferation of Pseudomonas spp. in the phyllosphere significantly contributed to antibiotic resistance. We further observed direct links between the upregulated leaf metabolite DIMBOA-Glc, Pseudomonas spp., and enrichment of phyllosphere ARGs, which were corroborated by microcosm experiments demonstrating that DIMBOA-Glc significantly enhanced the relative abundance of Pseudomonas spp. Overall, alterations in leaf metabolites resulting from genetic variation throughout plant evolution may drive the development of highly specialized microbial communities capable of enriching phyllosphere ARGs. This study enhances our understanding of how plants actively shape microbial communities and clarifies the impact of host genetic variation on the plant resistomes.
Damage control surgery for life-threatening blunt chest trauma
Authors: Kim Yeon Soo
Published: July 2024

A 31-year-old male sustained life-threatening chest contusions and recovered after damage control surgery. The patient was in an unwitnessed accident where his motorcycle was struck by a car. Upon admission, blood pressure was 69/58 mmHg, heart rate was 126 bpm, and oxygen saturation was 85%. Chest computed tomography revealed fractures to right ribs 1–9 and left ribs 1–7, lung contusions, multiple lung lacerations, and right hemopneumothorax. Upon presentation to the intensive care unit, hemostasis was achieved by suturing a deeply lacerated lung and applying gauze packing. The patient was placed on veno-veno type extracorporeal membrane oxygenation using both femoral veins after surgery until the 5th hospital day. The gauze was removed during the second operation on the 6th day. The third operation on the 13th hospital day was an open reduction of ribs 3–7 on the right. The patient was discharged on the 47th day without complications.
Long-term Donor Site–related Quality of Life after Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Svee Andreas , Sjökvist Olivia , Unukovych Dmytro , Gumuscu Rojda , Moradi Mardin , Falk-Delgado Alberto , Mani Maria
Published: July 2024

Background:

Current knowledge about patients’ perceptions of the donor site following abdominal-based breast reconstruction and its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) several years after breast reconstruction is limited. This study aimed to assess the long-term effects of deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction on HRQoL, specifically focusing on the abdomen and donor site aspects.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study compared 66 women who underwent DIEP breast reconstruction between 2000 and 2007 with a matched control cohort of 114 women who underwent therapeutic mastectomies without reconstruction in the year 2005. The DIEP cohort of patients completed the BREAST-Q Reconstruction module during an outpatient visit in 2015–2016. The control cohort completed the same questionnaire online in 2016.

Results:

The follow-up time was at least 8 years (mean 11.4 ± 1.6 years) postreconstruction for the DIEP cohort and 10 years postmastectomy (mean 11.0 ± 0.3 years) for the control cohort. In the DIEP cohort, 93% reported no donor site pain, 89% had no difficulty sitting up, and 91% had no activity limitations 2 weeks before completing the survey. Patients undergoing DIEP were more satisfied with their abdominal appearance than the control group (adjusted OR, 5.7; 95% confidence interval 1.8–17.6).

Conclusions:

A decade postoperatively, DIEP breast reconstruction yields high abdominal donor site satisfaction, with comparable abdominal physical well-being to nonreconstructed women.
Preparation of magnetic activated carbon fibers@Fe
3
O
4
by electrostatic self-assembly method and adsorption properties for methylene blue
Authors: Ye Jia-yi , Ye Man-qing , Zhang Ling , Li Wen , Li Yan-shan , Fu Zhi-wei
Published: July 2024

Nano-Fe
3
O
4
was loaded onto coconut-based activated carbon fibres (CACF) using an electrostatic self-assembly method. The effects of the mass ratio of CACF to nano-Fe
3
O
4
, loading time, pH and temperature on the loading effect were investigated and ideal loading conditions were determined. To study the adsorption performance of MACF@Fe
3
O
4
for methylene blue, the effects of the initial concentration, pH and time on the adsorption were investigated and the working conditions of adsorption were established. MACF@Fe
3
O
4
was systematically characterized. Adsorption kinetics were investigated under ideal conditions. The ideal loading conditions for MACF@Fe
3
O
4
were as follows: mass ratio of 1:1, 20 min, pH 9.36, 22.5°C. The saturation magnetization of MACF@Fe
3
O
4
was 48.2263 emu·g
−1
, which could be quickly separated under an external magnetic field. When the dosage was 0.010 g, the adsorption rate reached 97.29% and the maximum adsorption capacity was 12.1616 mg·g
−1
. The adsorption process conformed to pseudo-first-order kinetics during the first 15 min and pseudo-second-order kinetics during 20–120 min. The equations were

ln(

Q

e

-

Q

t

)=2.2394-0.0689t

and

t

Q

t

=0.0774 + 0.5295t

, respectively. The isothermal adsorption model showed that MACF@Fe
3
O
4
was more in line with the Langmuir model, indicating that the adsorption process was mainly monolayer adsorption. The thermodynamic analysis results showed that the adsorption process of MB by MACF@Fe
3
O
4
was an endothermic process. In this study, MACF@Fe
3
O
4
with high adsorption capacity and easy separation from coconut palm fibres has good application prospects in the field of adsorption, which can promote the high-value utilization of coconut palms.
Collimonas rhizosphaerae sp. nov., a novel species isolated from the beech rhizosphere
Authors: Uroz Stephane , Bouche Ségolène , Morin Emmanuelle , Bocquart Mathilde , Kumar Ravi , Rey Michael W. , Pham Jonathan , Akum Fidel , Leveau Johan H. J.
Published: July 2024

Bacterial strain H4R21T was isolated from beech rhizosphere soil sampled in the forest experimental site of Montiers (Meuse, France). It effectively weathers minerals, hydrolyses chitin and produces quorum sensing signal molecules. The strain is aerobic and Gram-stain-negative. Phylogenetic analysis based on its 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that strain H4R21T belongs to the genus Collimonas with high sequence similarity to C. arenae Ter10T (99.38 %), C. fungivorans Ter6T(98.97 %), C. pratensis Ter91T (98.76 %), C. humicola RLT1W51T (98.46 %) and C. silvisoli RXD178 T (98.46 %), but less than 98 % similarity to other strains of the genus Collimonas. The predominant quinone in H4R21T is ubiquinone-8 (Q8). The major polar lipids are diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and lipid. The major fatty acids identified were C12 : 0, C12:0 3-OH, C16  :  0 and C17:0 cyclo. The digital DNA G+C content of the genomic DNA was 59.5 mol%. Furthermore, the strain could be clearly distinguished from its closely related type strains by a combination of phylogenomic and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization results, and phenotypic characteristics. Therefore, strain H4R21T represents a novel species within the genus Collimonas, for which the name Collimonas rhizosphaerae sp. nov. is proposed, with strain H4R21T (=CFBP 9203T=DSM 117599T) as the type strain.
Large-scale Genomic Survey of Non-typhoidalSalmonella entericaserovar Minnesota Strains in Chicken Products Reveals the Emergence of Multidrug Resistant Clones
Authors: Huang Jiayi , Alzahrani Khaloud O. , Zhou Ge , Alsalman Shahad A. , Almansour Ayidh M. , Alhadlaq Meshari A. , Alhussain Shaykhah , Alajlan Abdullah A. , Al-Akeel Saleh I. , Al Rashidy Malfi S. , Alzauhair Abdulrahman , AlReshoodi Fahad M. , Alsufyani Amani T. , Alotaibi Nourah M. , Althubaiti Afnan , Alshdokhi Elaf , Alhamed Ashwaq , Almusa Manal , Almadi Talah , Almutairi Nouf , Mukhtar Lenah E. , AlHarbi Abdulmohsen L. , Banzhaf Manuel , Milner Mathew , AlArawi Mohammad , Alajel Sulaiman , Moradigaravand Danesh
Published: July 2024

Background

Salmonella entericaserovar Minnesota (S. Minnesota) is an emerging serovar of non-typhoidalSalmonella, known to persist in the food chain and distribution systems, potentially leading to outbreaks ofSalmonellainfections in human settings. Understanding the population genomics and dynamics of this pathogen is key to designing preventative measures and containing its spread within the poultry production chain.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a large-scale study onS. Minnesota outbreak by fully characterizing population diversity and dynamics of a systematic collection from the poultry production chain in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). We sequenced 260S. Minnesota strains from the western, eastern, and central regions of the country. We analyzed sequencing data to decipher the population diversity and dynamics of multidrug resistant strains and characterize the genetic basis of resistance and virulence. A hybrid long- and short-read sequencing approach was employed to analyze the population diversity of plasmids carrying antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors.

Results

Our results indicate the rise of four clones (Bayesian Analysis of Population Structure; BAPS groups) in Saudi Arabia, three of which were mixed with global strains. The clones emerged over the past five to ten years and exhibited circulation between countries. The transmission analysis shows evidence of the spread of strains across cities, between countries, and mixing of strains from different suppliers, on epidemiological time scales. The emerging clones also harbored a higher resistance and virulence level than ancestral clones, owing to the acquisition of multiple plasmids, most importantly the IncC plasmid. The IncC plasmid was a mosaic plasmid, which carried antimicrobial resistance islands withblaCMY-2, ESBLblaCTX-M, aminoglycoside, and tetracycline resistance genes, as well as a hyperpathogenicity island with yersiniabactin genes. The plasmidome analysis revealed a high level of dynamics in the IncC plasmid structures with various configurations of resistance genes.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results demonstrate a dynamic population and the emergence of multidrug-resistant clones inS. Minnesota. The results also highlight the role of plasmid acquisition and genomic variations in driving the concurrent evolution of pathogenicity and resistance inS. Minnesota.
Senescent fibroblasts in the tumor stroma rewire lung cancer metabolism and plasticity
Authors: Lee Jin Young , Reyes Nabora , Woo Sang-Ho , Goel Sakshi , Stratton Fia , Kuang Chaoyuan , Mansfield Aaron S. , LaFave Lindsay M. , Peng Tien
Published: July 2024

Senescence has been demonstrated to either inhibit or promote tumorigenesis. Resolving this paradox requires spatial mapping and functional characterization of senescent cells in the native tumor niche. Here, we identified senescentp16Ink4a+ cancer-associated fibroblasts with a secretory phenotype that promotes fatty acid uptake and utilization by aggressive lung adenocarcinoma driven by Kras and p53 mutations. Furthermore, rewiring of lung cancer metabolism byp16Ink4a+ cancer- associated fibroblasts also altered tumor cell identity to a highly plastic/dedifferentiated state associated with progression in murine and human LUAD. Ourex vivosenolytic screening platform identified XL888, a HSP90 inhibitor, that clearedp16Ink4a+ cancer- associated fibroblastsin vivo. XL888 administration after establishment of advanced lung adenocarcinoma significantly reduced tumor burden concurrent with the loss of plastic tumor cells. Our study identified a druggable component of the tumor stroma that fulfills the metabolic requirement of tumor cells to acquire a more aggressive phenotype.
Optimal Transport with Constraints: From Mirror Descent to Classical Mechanics
Authors: Ibrahim Abdullahi Adinoyi , Muehlebach Michael , De Bacco Caterina
Published: July 2024

Finding optimal trajectories for multiple traffic demands in a congested network is a challenging task. Optimal transport theory is a principled approach that has been used successfully to study various transportation problems. Its usage is limited by the lack of principled and flexible ways to incorporate realistic constraints. We propose a principled physics-based approach to impose constraints flexibly in optimal transport problems. Constraints are included in mirror descent dynamics using the D’Alembert-Lagrange principle from classical mechanics. This results in a sparse, local and linear approximation of the feasible set leading in many cases to closed-form updates.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Investigating digitization and digital preservation strategies for theses and dissertations: a case study of Quaid-I-Azam university, Pakistan
Authors: Arif Muhammad , Mirza Khalid Bashir , Hamid Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to outline the process, procedures and techniques used for digitization and digital preservation of theses and dissertations (TDs) collection at the Central Library of Quaid-I-Azam University, Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

Since the phenomenon under investigation is exploratory in nature, a case study qualitative paradigm was used to conduct this study.

Findings

The findings of the study offer a brief overview of the cost-effective solution that leveraged in-house expertise for the digital preservation of TDs. This led to the establishment of a knowledge repository hosting a substantial collection of approximately 25,857 electronic theses and dissertations, accessible online since August 2023. This project digitally preserved approximately 9,387 TDs on CDs/DVDs, and scanned about 15,000 print TDs, comprising around 1,399,244 pages. The cost incurred per page, including labor and rent of a photocopy machine, was just Rs 0.548 making it a cost-effective technique. The total cost incurred for this process was just 0.768m Pakistani rupees (equivalent to $2,509.55). The findings revealed key challenges, including administrative, financial, technical and copyright issues, that impede the effective execution of the project.

Research limitations/implications

This case study is limited to one Pakistani public sector university library. This case study holds significance in terms of practical insights and implications for academic institutions and library administrators in other developing countries like Pakistan, which have similar economic, social and technical circumstances.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first-ever study conducted to elucidate the cost-effective strategy adopted for digitally preserved TDs without additional financial and human resources while creating a knowledge repository.
Gender gap in agricultural productivity: evidence from Burkina Faso
Authors: Valea Aristide Bonsdaouêndé , Noufé Tiatité
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Women make a major contribution to the agricultural sector, especially in developing countries. Despite this, women still face many obstacles in carrying out their agricultural activities. These obstacles have a negative impact on their productivity and create a gender gap. This paper analyses the difference in agricultural productivity between male-headed and female-headed households in Burkina Faso.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from the Permanent Agricultural Survey (EPA), we applied the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition method to determine the size of the gender gap and identify the variables explaining this gap. In this study, we used the value of production per farm worker as a measure of productivity.

Findings

The results indicate a gender gap of 43.8 percentage points in favor of male-headed households. Around 131% of this difference is explained by differences in observable household characteristics. The factor that most explains this difference in productivity is the difference in the total area of land available to households.

Practical implications

This finding calls for women’s access to land to be considered in the design and implementation of agricultural development policies.

Originality/value

One of the main contributions of this article in relation to previous studies lies in the unit of analysis. Rather than focusing on individual producers, as in previous studies, we have instead considered the household as the unit of analysis, since in developing countries such as Burkina Faso, production decisions are taken at household level. It contributes to inform economic policy decisions by providing decision-makers with the factors on which they can act to bring about an increase in agricultural productivity by reducing the gap between male-headed households and female-headed households.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-11-2023-0923
Nylon dyeing with reactive dyes by intermittent exposure to microwave irradiations to improve leveling
Authors: Irfan Mohammad , Gao Aiqin , Hou Aiqin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Reactive dyes are believed to have great potential for nylon dyeing, but these anionic dyes tend to rush toward the nylon at the beginning of the process, resulting in uneven dyeing. Achieving uniformity gets even harder when the dyeing is performed under exposure to eco-friendly technique microwave irradiations. This study aims to achieve rapid and homogenous results by intermittent shaking and non-continuous exposure to microwave.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of reactive red dyes, based on the same chromophore and different substituents in the auxochrome part, was applied to the nylon fabric without any leveling agent. A series of experiments were designed to investigate the effect of different dye structures, exhaustion pH, liquor ratio, exhaustion time and fixation time to obtain an optimum recipe under the microwave dyeing technique.

Findings

Dyeing performance was characterized based on the color strength, exhaustion and fixation percentages and color fastness values. The characterization showed that better results can be achieved at a liquor ratio of 1:15 at exhaustion pH 2.7 which is also the isoelectric point of nylon, with 5.5 to 7 min of exhaustion and 6 to 8 min of fixation time for different dyes. Microwave dyed samples secured higher color strength values and provided better exhaustion and fixation than the conventional dye samples. Furthermore, the X-ray diffraction results verified that there was no considerable difference in the morphological structure of nylon with microwave exposure.

Originality/value

An applied technique is disclosed in this work to achieve uniform dyeing on nylon 66 with reactive dyes without any leveling agent under exposure to eco-friendly rapid heating microwave irradiations.
Constrained simultaneous recovery of the depth to basement and lateral susceptibility variation
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Li Yaoguo , Xu Kaijun
Published: July 2024

The basin environment is a widely studied subject in both geology and geophysics for its economic significance in energy and mineral explorations. However, the estimation of the basement depth is often a challenging task given the complexity of the basement relief and lateral physical property change. Previous works simplify the problem by only inverting for the depth to the basement, and more recent studies have suggested the need to incorporate the variation of physical properties to improve basement structure imaging. In this study, we develop an inversion method with the associated workflow to simultaneously recover both the depth to a magnetic basement and a laterally varying magnetic susceptibility in the basement rock. To achieve this, we employ a set of constraints on the inverse problem. Particularly, both the recovered susceptibility and basement depth models are bounded below a possible maximum value, and the depth model is guided by a few depth points obtained from the resistivity models that are obtained from the one‐dimensional blocky inversions of magnetotelluric (MT) data. In addition, we apply the fuzzy C‐means (FCM) clustering to the susceptibility model during the inversion and use the inverted cluster centers to differentiate for different geological units in the basement. To show the effectiveness of our work, we compare the existing approaches and our method using two test inversions on one synthetic model resembling the basin–basement environment before demonstrating our method on a field data example with magnetic data collected by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) over the Illinois Basin. Our results show improved recovery in both basement relief and susceptibility in the basement rock, and inversion with field data is able to identify three different susceptibility zones in basement rock below the Illinois Basin.
Fecal bacterial communities of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) reflect captivity status—Implications for conservation and management
Authors: DUNGAN Ashley M. , THOMAS Jessica L.
Published: July 2024

The duck‐billed platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is currently listed as near‐threatened. A key part of the conservation strategy for this species is its captive maintenance; however, captive animals often have dysbiotic gut bacterial microbiomes. Here, for the first time, we characterize the gut microbiome of wild platypus via fecal samples using high‐throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene and identify microbial biomarkers of captivity in this species. At the phylum level, Firmicutes (50.4%) predominated among all platypuses, followed by Proteobacteria (28.7%), Fusobacteria (13.4%), and Bacteroidota (6.9%), with 21 “core” bacteria identified. Captive individuals did not differ in their microbial α‐diversity compared to wild platypus but had significantly different community composition (β‐diversity) and exhibited higher abundances of Enterococcus, which are potential pathogenic bacteria. Four taxa were identified as biomarkers of wild platypus, including Rickettsiella, Epulopiscium, Clostridium, and Cetobacterium. This contrast in gut microbiome composition between wild and captive platypus is an essential insight for guiding conservation management, as the rewilding of captive animal microbiomes is a new and emerging tool to improve captive animal health, maximize captive breeding efforts, and give reintroduced or translocated animals the best chance of survival.
Climate cycling did not affect haplotype distribution in an abundant Southern African avian habitat generalist species, the familiar chat (Oenanthe familiaris)
Authors: VOELKER Gary , WOGAN Guinevere O.U. , HUNTLEY Jerry W. , KALIBA Potiphar M. , DE SWARDT Dawie H. , BOWIE Rauri C. K.
Published: July 2024

Avian species diversity in Southern Africa is remarkably high, yet the mechanisms responsible for that diversity are poorly understood. While this is particularly true with respect to species endemic to the subregion, it is unclear as to how more broadly distributed African species may have colonized southern Africa. One process that may in part account for the high bird species diversity in southern Africa is a “species pump” model, wherein the region was repeatedly colonized by lineages from areas further north: a pattern related to climate cycling and the eastern African arid corridor. Once occupying southern Africa, with its many varied biomes, it is possible that climate cycling further affected lineages by generating genetic diversity in multiple refugia, a pattern recently shown for several southern African bird species. Here, we used mtDNA to address these questions in a widespread, sedentary habitat generalist bird species, the familiar chat (Oenanthe familiaris). The phylogenetic structure suggests a north‐to‐south colonization pattern, supporting the “species pump” model. Haplotype diversity was partitioned into two distinct clusters: southern Africa and Malawi (East Africa). Southern African haplotypes were not geographically partitioned, and we hypothesize that this pattern has arisen because this species is a habitat generalist, and as such resilient to habitat‐altering climate perturbations. Based on our phylogenetic results, we discuss the validity of currently recognized subspecies.
Exploring the secrets of marine microorganisms: Unveiling secondary metabolites through metagenomics
Authors: Wang Shaoyu , Li Xinyan , Yang Weiqin , Huang Ranran
Published: July 2024

Marine microorganisms are increasingly recognized as primary producers of marine secondary metabolites, drawing growing research interest. Many of these organisms are unculturable, posing challenges for study. Metagenomic techniques enable research on these unculturable microorganisms, identifying various biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) related to marine microbial secondary metabolites, thereby unveiling their secrets. This review comprehensively analyses metagenomic methods used in discovering marine microbial secondary metabolites, highlighting tools commonly employed in BGC identification, and discussing the potential and challenges in this field. It emphasizes the key role of metagenomics in unveiling secondary metabolites, particularly in marine sponges and tunicates. The review also explores current limitations in studying these metabolites through metagenomics, noting how long‐read sequencing technologies and the evolution of computational biology tools offer more possibilities for BGC discovery. Furthermore, the development of synthetic biology allows experimental validation of computationally identified BGCs, showcasing the vast potential of metagenomics in mining marine microbial secondary metabolites.
Advances in Aureobasidium research: Paving the path to industrial utilization
Authors: Xiao Difan , Driller Marielle , Dielentheis‐Frenken Marie , Haala Frederick , Kohl Philipp , Stein Karla , Blank Lars M. , Tiso Till
Published: July 2024

We here explore the potential of the fungal genus Aureobasidium as a prototype for a microbial chassis for industrial biotechnology in the context of a developing circular bioeconomy. The study emphasizes the physiological advantages of Aureobasidium, including its polyextremotolerance, broad substrate spectrum, and diverse product range, making it a promising candidate for cost‐effective and sustainable industrial processes. In the second part, recent advances in genetic tool development, as well as approaches for up‐scaled fermentation, are described. This review adds to the growing body of scientific literature on this remarkable fungus and reveals its potential for future use in the biotechnological industry.
Burning question: Rethinking organohalide degradation strategy for bioremediation applications
Authors: Lu Qihong , Liang Qi , Wang Shanquan
Published: July 2024

Organohalides are widespread pollutants that pose significant environmental hazards due to their high degree of halogenation and elevated redox potentials, making them resistant to natural attenuation. Traditional bioremediation approaches, primarily relying on bioaugmentation and biostimulation, often fall short of achieving complete detoxification. Furthermore, the emergence of complex halogenated pollutants, such as per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), further complicates remediation efforts. Therefore, there is a pressing need to reconsider novel approaches for more efficient remediation of these recalcitrant pollutants. This review proposes novel redox‐potential‐mediated hybrid bioprocesses, tailored to the physicochemical properties of pollutants and their environmental contexts, to achieve complete detoxification of organohalides. The possible scenarios for the proposed bioremediation approaches are further discussed. In anaerobic environments, such as sediment and groundwater, microbial reductive dehalogenation coupled with fermentation and methanogenesis can convert organohalides into carbon dioxide and methane. In environments with anaerobic‐aerobic alternation, such as paddy soil and wetlands, a synergistic process involving reduction and oxidation can facilitate the complete mineralization of highly halogenated organic compounds. Future research should focus on in‐depth exploration of microbial consortia, the application of ecological principles‐guided strategies, and the development of bioinspired‐designed techniques. This paper contributes to the academic discourse by proposing innovative remediation strategies tailored to the complexities of organohalide pollution.
What's different about digital? A qualitative interview study exploring experiences of adapting in‐person behaviour change interventions for digital delivery
Authors: Cooney Eva , Toomey Elaine , Ryan Kathleen , Meade Oonagh , McSharry Jenny
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Digital health behaviour change interventions may be adapted from in‐person interventions, without appropriate consideration of how the digital context might differ. Drawing on the wider literature on behaviour change intervention development, this research aims to explore the digital adaptation process of health behaviour change interventions and the specific considerations for digital modes of delivery.

Design

A qualitative interview study.

Methods

Interviews with 15 intervention developers/facilitators were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Findings highlight a continuum of digitalization, where variation in technology available and human support influences considerations for digital adaptation. ‘What vs how: “trying to do the impossible”’ describes the balance between retaining the intervention's active ingredients while modifying for digital delivery. Through ‘Trial and error’, participants described an iterative process based on experience of delivery. ‘Creating connection and engagement’ emphasizes the importance of social support and the challenges of replicating this.

Conclusions

Several considerations for digital adaptations are proposed including the involvement of end‐users (facilitators and recipients) during adaptation, the need to understand the original intervention and new context for use, and the different motivational needs of digital intervention recipients.
Comprehensive immune modulation mechanisms of Angong Niuhuang Wan in ischemic stroke: Insights from mass cytometry analysis
Authors: Yao Yang , Ni Weihua , Feng Liangshu , Meng Jihong , Tan Xiaomu , Chen Hansen , Shen Jiangang , Zhao Heng
Published: July 2024

Background

Angong Niuhuang Wan (AGNHW, 安宫牛黄丸), is a classical medicinal formula in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been appreciated for its neuroprotective properties in ischemic cerebral injuries, yet its intricate mechanisms remain only partially elucidated.

Aims

This study leverages advanced Mass cytometry (CyTOF) to analyze AGNHW's multifaceted immunomodulation effects in‐depth, emphasizing previously underexplored areas.

Results

AGNHW mitigated monocyte‐derived macrophages (MoDM) infiltration in the brain, distinguishing its effects on those from microglia. While the vehicle group exhibited elevated inflammatory markers like CD4, CD8a, and CD44 in ischemic brains, the AGNHW‐treated group attenuated their expressions, indicating AGNHW's potential to temper the post‐ischemic inflammatory response. Systemically, AGNHW modulated fundamental immune cell dynamics, notably augmenting CD8+ T cells, B cells, monocytes, and neutrophil counts in the peripheral blood under post‐stroke conditions. Intracellularly, AGNHW exhibited its targeted modulation of the signaling pathways, revealing a remarked inhibition of key markers like IκBα, indicating potential suppression of inflammatory responses in ischemic brain injuries.

Conclusion

This study offers a comprehensive portrait of AGNHW's immunomodulation effects on ischemic stroke, illuminating its dual sites of action—both cerebral and systemic—and its nuanced modulation of cellular and molecular dynamics.