bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammatory biotype of ADHD is linked to chronic stress: a data-driven analysis of the inflammatory proteome
Authors: Schnorr Isabel , Siegl Anne , Luckhardt Sonja , Wenz Söri , Friedrichsen Hendrik , El Jomaa Hiba , Steinmann Annebirth , Kilencz Tünde , Arteaga-Henríquez Gara , Ramos-Sayalero Carolina , Ibanez-Jimenez Pol , Rosales-Ortiz Silvia Karina , Bitter István , Fadeuilhe Christian , Ferrer Marc , Lavebratt Catharina , Réthelyi János M. , Richarte Vanesa , Rommelse Nanda , Ramos-Quiroga Josep Antoni , Arias-Vasquez Alejandro , Resch Eduard , Reif Andreas , Matura Silke , Schiweck Carmen
Published: January 2024

The association between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and low-grade inflammation has been explored in children but rarely in adults. Inflammation is characteristic of some, but not all, patients with ADHD and might be influenced by ADHD medication but also lifestyle factors including nutrition, smoking, and stress. It is also still unclear if any specific symptoms are related to inflammation. Therefore, we assessed 96 inflammatory proteins in a deeply phenotyped cohort of 126 adult ADHD participants with a stable medication status using OLINK technology. A data-based, unsupervised hierarchical clustering method could identify two distinct biotypes within the 126 ADHD participants based on their inflammatory profile: a higher inflammatory potential (HIP) and a lower inflammatory protein potential (LIP) group. Biological processes that differed strongest between groups were related to the NF-κB pathway, chemokine signaling, IL-17 signaling, metabolic alterations, and chemokine attraction. A comparison of sample characteristics revealed that the HIP group was more likely to have higher levels of chronic stress (p < 0.001), a higher clinical global impression scale score (p = 0.030), and a higher risk for suicide (p = 0.032). Medication status did not influence protein levels significantly (p ≥ 0.074), but psychotropic co-medication (p ≤ 0.009) did. In conclusion, our data suggest the presence of two distinct biotypes in adults with ADHD. Higher levels of inflammatory proteins in ADHD are linked to higher levels of chronic perceived stress in a linear fashion. Further research on inflammation in adults with ADHD should take stress levels into account.
Morphometric network-based abnormalities correlate with psychiatric comorbidities and gene expression in PCDH19-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Lenge Matteo , Balestrini Simona , Napolitano Antonio , Mei Davide , Conti Valerio , Baldassarri Giulia , Trivisano Marina , Pellacani Simona , Macconi Letizia , Longo Daniela , Rossi Espagnet Maria Camilla , Cappelletti Simona ,   PCDH19 Clinical Study Group, Ferrari Annarita , Pisano Tiziana , Sicca Federico , Striano Pasquale , D’Incerti Ludovico , Barba Carmen , Specchio Nicola , Guerrini Renzo
Published: January 2024

Protocadherin-19 (PCDH19) developmental and epileptic encephalopathy causes an early-onset epilepsy syndrome with limbic seizures, typically occurring in clusters and variably associated with intellectual disability and a range of psychiatric disorders including hyperactive, obsessive-compulsive and autistic features. Previous quantitative neuroimaging studies revealed abnormal cortical areas in the limbic formation (parahippocampal and fusiform gyri) and underlying white-matter fibers. In this study, we adopted morphometric, network-based and multivariate statistical methods to examine the cortex and substructure of the hippocampus and amygdala in a cohort of 20 PCDH19-mutated patients and evaluated the relation between structural patterns and clinical variables at individual level. We also correlated morphometric alterations with known patterns of PCDH19 expression levels. We found patients to exhibit high-significant reductions of cortical surface area at a whole-brain level (left/right pvalue = 0.045/0.084), and particularly in the regions of the limbic network (left/right parahippocampal gyri pvalue = 0.230/0.016; left/right entorhinal gyri pvalue = 0.002/0.327), and bilateral atrophy of several subunits of the amygdala and hippocampus, particularly in the CA regions (head of the left CA3 pvalue = 0.002; body of the right CA3 pvalue = 0.004), and differences in the shape of hippocampal structures. More severe psychiatric comorbidities correlated with more significant altered patterns, with the entorhinal gyrus (pvalue = 0.013) and body of hippocampus (pvalue = 0.048) being more severely affected. Morphometric alterations correlated significantly with the known expression patterns of PCDH19 (rvalue = -0.26, pspin = 0.092). PCDH19 encephalopathy represents a model of genetically determined neural network based neuropsychiatric disease in which quantitative MRI-based findings correlate with the severity of clinical manifestations and had have a potential predictive value if analyzed early.
Differential methylation of linoleic acid pathway genes is associated with PTSD symptoms – a longitudinal study with Burundian soldiers returning from a war zone
Authors: Crombach Anselm , Rukundo-Zeller Anja C. , Vukojevic Vanja , Nandi Corina , Bambonye Manassé , de Quervain Dominique J.-F. , Papassotiropoulos Andreas , Elbert Thomas
Published: January 2024

Soldiers may be exposed to traumatic stress during combat deployment and thus are at risk for developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Genetic and epigenetic evidence suggests that PTSD is linked to forming stress-related memories. In the current study, we investigated post-deployment associations of PTSD symptoms with differential DNA methylation in a sample of Burundian soldiers returning from the African Union Mission in Somalia’s war zone. We used a matched longitudinal study design to explore epigenetic changes associated with PTSD symptoms in N = 191 participants. PTSD symptoms and saliva samples were collected at 1–3 (t1) and 9–14 months (t2) after the return of the soldiers to their home base. Individuals with either worsening or improving PTSD symptoms were matched for age, stressful, traumatic and self-perpetrated events prior to the post-assessment, traumatic and violent experiences between the post- and the follow-up assessment, and violence experienced during childhood. A mixed model analysis was conducted to identify top nominally significantly differentially methylated genes, which were then used to perform a gene enrichment analysis. The linoleic acid metabolism pathway was significantly associated with post-deployment PTSD symptoms, after accounting for multiple comparisons. Linoleic acid has been linked to memory and immune related processes in previous research. Our findings suggest that differential methylation of linoleic acid pathway genes is associated with PTSD and thus may merit closer inspection as a possible mediator of resilience.
The impact of social vulnerability index on survival following autologous stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma
Authors: Salafian Kiarash , Mazimba Christine , Volodin Leonid , Varadarajan Indumathy , Pilehvari Asal , You Wen , Knio Ziyad O. , Ballen Karen
Published: January 2024

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard of care for eligible patients with multiple myeloma (MM) to prolong progression-free survival (PFS). While several factors affect survival following ASCT, the impact of social determinants of health such as the CDC Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) is not well documented. This single-center retrospective analysis evaluated the impact of SVI on PFS following ASCT in MM patients. 225 patients with MM who underwent ASCT participated, with 51% transplanted in the last 5 years. At 5 years post-transplant, 55 (50%) achieved PFS and 66 (60%) remained alive. Higher SVI values were significantly associated with lower odds of PFS (OR = 0.521, p < 0.01, 95% CI [0.41, 0.66]) and OS (OR = 0.592, p < 0.01, 95% CI [0.46, 0.76]) post-transplant. Greater vulnerability scores in the socioeconomic status (OR = 0.890; 95% CI: [0.82, 0.96]), household characteristics (OR = 0.912; 95% CI: [0.87, 0.95]), and racial and ethnic minority status (OR = 0.854; 95% CI: [0.81, 0.90]) themes significantly worsened the odds of PFS. These results suggest high SVI areas may need more resources to achieve optimal PFS and OS. Future studies will focus on addressing factors within the socioeconomic status, household characteristics, and racial and ethnic minority subthemes, as these have a more pronounced effect on PFS.
From interaction networks to interfaces, scanning intrinsically disordered regions using AlphaFold2
Authors: Bret Hélène , Gao Jinmei , Zea Diego Javier , Andreani Jessica , Guerois Raphaël
Published: January 2024

The revolution brought about by AlphaFold2 opens promising perspectives to unravel the complexity of protein-protein interaction networks. The analysis of interaction networks obtained from proteomics experiments does not systematically provide the delimitations of the interaction regions. This is of particular concern in the case of interactions mediated by intrinsically disordered regions, in which the interaction site is generally small. Using a dataset of protein-peptide complexes involving intrinsically disordered regions that are non-redundant with the structures used in AlphaFold2 training, we show that when using the full sequences of the proteins, AlphaFold2-Multimer only achieves 40% success rate in identifying the correct site and structure of the interface. By delineating the interaction region into fragments of decreasing size and combining different strategies for integrating evolutionary information, we manage to raise this success rate up to 90%. We obtain similar success rates using a much larger dataset of protein complexes taken from the ELM database. Beyond the correct identification of the interaction site, our study also explores specificity issues. We show the advantages and limitations of using the AlphaFold2 confidence score to discriminate between alternative binding partners, a task that can be particularly challenging in the case of small interaction motifs.
Discovery of plant chemical defence mediated by a two-component system involving β-glucosidase in Panax species
Authors: Ma Li-Juan , Liu Xiao , Guo Liwei , Luo Yuan , Zhang Beibei , Cui Xiaoxue , Yang Kuan , Cai Jing , Liu Fang , Ma Ni , Yang Feng-Qing , He Xiahong , Shi She-Po , Wan Jian-Bo
Published: January 2024

Plants usually produce defence metabolites in non-active forms to minimize the risk of harm to themselves and spatiotemporally activate these defence metabolites upon pathogen attack. This so-called two-component system plays a decisive role in the chemical defence of various plants. Here, we discovered that Panax notoginseng, a valuable medicinal plant, has evolved a two-component chemical defence system composed of a chloroplast-localized β-glucosidase, denominated PnGH1, and its substrates 20(S)-protopanaxadiol ginsenosides. The β-glucosidase and its substrates are spatially separated in cells under physiological conditions, and ginsenoside hydrolysis is therefore activated only upon chloroplast disruption, which is caused by the induced exoenzymes of pathogenic fungi upon exposure to plant leaves. This activation of PnGH1-mediated hydrolysis results in the production of a series of less-polar ginsenosides by selective hydrolysis of an outer glucose at the C-3 site, with a broader spectrum and more potent antifungal activity in vitro and in vivo than the precursor molecules. Furthermore, such β-glucosidase-mediated hydrolysis upon fungal infection was also found in the congeneric species P. quinquefolium and P. ginseng. Our findings reveal a two-component chemical defence system in Panax species and offer insights for developing botanical pesticides for disease management in Panax species.
Alternative dosing regimen of exemestane in a randomized presurgical trial: the role of obesity in biomarker modulation
Authors: Johansson Harriet , Guerrieri-Gonzaga Aliana , Gandini Sara , Bertelsen Bjørn-Erik , Macis Debora , Serrano Davide , Mellgren Gunnar , Lazzeroni Matteo , Thomas Parijatham S. , Crew Katherine D. , Kumar Nagi B. , Briata Irene Maria , Galimberti Viviana , Viale Giuseppe , Vornik Lana A. , Aristarco Valentina , Buttiron Webber Tania , Spinaci Stefano , Brown Powel H. , Heckman-Stoddard Brandy M. , Szabo Eva , Bonanni Bernardo , DeCensi Andrea
Published: January 2024

In a 3-arm presurgical trial, four-six weeks exemestane 25 mg three times/week (TIW) was non-inferior to 25 mg/day (QD) in suppressing circulating estradiol in postmenopausal women with ER-positive breast cancer. Since obesity may decrease exemestane efficacy, we analyzed changes in sex steroids, adipokines, Ki-67, and drug levels in relation to obesity. Postmenopausal women with early-stage ER-positive breast cancer were randomized to either exemestane 25 mg QD (n = 57), 25 mg TIW (n = 57), or 25 mg/week (QW, n = 62) for 4–6 weeks before breast surgery. Serum and tissue pre- and post-treatment biomarkers were stratified by body mass index (BMI)< or ≥30 kg/m2. Post-treatment median exemestane and 17-OH exemestane levels were 5–6 times higher in the QD arm compared to the TIW arm. For obese women, TIW maintained comparable reductions to QD in systemic estradiol levels, although the reduction in estrone was less with the TIW regimen. There was less suppression of SHBG with the TIW versus the QD dose schedule in obese women which should result in less systemic bioavailable estrogens. Metabolically, the effect of the TIW regimen was similar to the QD regimen for obese women in terms of leptin suppression and increase in the adiponectin-leptin ratio. Reduction in tissue Ki-67 was less for obese women on the TIW regimen than QD, although changes were similar for non-obese women. Our findings suggest that TIW exemestane should be explored further for primary cancer prevention in both normal weight and obese cohorts.
Deciphering Lyman-α emission deep into the epoch of reionization
Authors: Witten Callum , Laporte Nicolas , Martin-Alvarez Sergio , Sijacki Debora , Yuan Yuxuan , Haehnelt Martin G. , Baker William M. , Dunlop James S. , Ellis Richard S. , Grogin Norman A. , Illingworth Garth , Katz Harley , Koekemoer Anton M. , Magee Daniel , Maiolino Roberto , McClymont William , Pérez-González Pablo G. , Puskás Dávid , Roberts-Borsani Guido , Santini Paola , Simmonds Charlotte
Published: January 2024

During the epoch of reionization, the first galaxies were enshrouded in pristine neutral gas, with one of the brightest emission lines in star-forming galaxies, Lyman α (Lyα), expected to remain undetected until the Universe became ionized. Providing an explanation for the surprising detection of Lyα in these early galaxies is a major challenge for extragalactic studies. Recent James Webb Space Telescope observations have reignited the debate about whether residence in an overdensity of galaxies is a sufficient and necessary condition for Lyα to escape. Here, we take unique advantage of both high-resolution and high-sensitivity images from the James Webb Space Telescope Near Infrared Camera to show that all galaxies in a sample of Lyα emitters with redshift >7 have close companions. We exploit on-the-fly radiative-transfer magnetohydrodynamical simulations with cosmic ray feedback to show that galaxies with frequent mergers have very bursty star formation histories that drives episodes of high intrinsic Lyα emission and facilitates the escape of Lyα photons along channels cleared of neutral gas. We conclude that the rapid buildup of stellar mass through mergers presents a compelling solution to the long-standing puzzle of the detection of Lyα emission deep in the epoch of reionization.
Yersinia entomophaga Tc toxin is released by T10SS-dependent lysis of specialized cell subpopulations
Authors: Sitsel Oleg , Wang Zhexin , Janning Petra , Kroczek Lara , Wagner Thorsten , Raunser Stefan
Published: January 2024

Disease-causing bacteria secrete numerous toxins to invade and subjugate their hosts. Unlike many smaller toxins, the secretion machinery of most large toxins remains enigmatic. By combining genomic editing, proteomic profiling and cryo-electron tomography of the insect pathogen Yersinia entomophaga, we demonstrate that a specialized subset of these cells produces a complex toxin cocktail, including the nearly ribosome-sized Tc toxin YenTc, which is subsequently exported by controlled cell lysis using a transcriptionally coupled, pH-dependent type 10 secretion system (T10SS). Our results dissect the Tc toxin export process by a T10SS, identifying that T10SSs operate via a previously unknown lytic mode of action and establishing them as crucial players in the size-insensitive release of cytoplasmically folded toxins. With T10SSs directly embedded in Tc toxin operons of major pathogens, we anticipate that our findings may model an important aspect of pathogenesis in bacteria with substantial impact on agriculture and healthcare.
Microglia regulate sleep through calcium-dependent modulation of norepinephrine transmission
Authors: Ma Chenyan , Li Bing , Silverman Daniel , Ding Xinlu , Li Anan , Xiao Chi , Huang Ganghua , Worden Kurtresha , Muroy Sandra , Chen Wei , Xu Zhengchao , Tso Chak Foon , Huang Yixuan , Zhang Yufan , Luo Qingming , Saijo Kaoru , Dan Yang
Published: January 2024

Sleep interacts reciprocally with immune system activity, but its specific relationship with microglia—the resident immune cells in the brain—remains poorly understood. Here, we show in mice that microglia can regulate sleep through a mechanism involving Gi-coupled GPCRs, intracellular Ca2+ signaling and suppression of norepinephrine transmission. Chemogenetic activation of microglia Gi signaling strongly promoted sleep, whereas pharmacological blockade of Gi-coupled P2Y12 receptors decreased sleep. Two-photon imaging in the cortex showed that P2Y12–Gi activation elevated microglia intracellular Ca2+, and blockade of this Ca2+ elevation largely abolished the Gi-induced sleep increase. Microglia Ca2+ level also increased at natural wake-to-sleep transitions, caused partly by reduced norepinephrine levels. Furthermore, imaging of norepinephrine with its biosensor in the cortex showed that microglia P2Y12–Gi activation significantly reduced norepinephrine levels, partly by increasing the adenosine concentration. These findings indicate that microglia can regulate sleep through reciprocal interactions with norepinephrine transmission.
A ubiquitous spectrolaminar motif of local field potential power across the primate cortex
Authors: Mendoza-Halliday Diego , Major Alex James , Lee Noah , Lichtenfeld Maxwell J. , Carlson Brock , Mitchell Blake , Meng Patrick D. , Xiong Yihan , Westerberg Jacob A. , Jia Xiaoxuan , Johnston Kevin D. , Selvanayagam Janahan , Everling Stefan , Maier Alexander , Desimone Robert , Miller Earl K. , Bastos André M.
Published: January 2024

The mammalian cerebral cortex is anatomically organized into a six-layer motif. It is currently unknown whether a corresponding laminar motif of neuronal activity patterns exists across the cortex. Here we report such a motif in the power of local field potentials (LFPs). Using laminar probes, we recorded LFPs from 14 cortical areas across the cortical hierarchy in five macaque monkeys. The laminar locations of recordings were histologically identified by electrolytic lesions. Across all areas, we found a ubiquitous spectrolaminar pattern characterized by an increasing deep-to-superficial layer gradient of high-frequency power peaking in layers 2/3 and an increasing superficial-to-deep gradient of alpha-beta power peaking in layers 5/6. Laminar recordings from additional species showed that the spectrolaminar pattern is highly preserved among primates—macaque, marmoset and human—but more dissimilar in mouse. Our results suggest the existence of a canonical layer-based and frequency-based mechanism for cortical computation.
Projected income data under different shared socioeconomic pathways for Washington state
Authors: Wan Heng , Ganguli Sumitrra , Mohankumar Narmadha Meenu , Jain Milan , Wilson Kyle , Anderson David
Published: January 2024

High-resolution income projections under different Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) are essential for the climate change research communities to devise climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. To generate income projections for Washington state, we obtain state-level GDP per capita projections and convert them into projected annual household income. The resulting state-level income projections are subsequently downscaled to the census block-level based on the Longitudinal Origin-Destination Employment Statistics (LODES) dataset. For accuracy assessment, we downscale historical income data from state- level to block- and block group-level and compare the downscaled results against the actual income data from LODES. County-level accuracy assessment is also conducted based on American Community Survey. The results demonstrate a good agreement (Average R2 of 0.67, 0.8, and 0.99 for block-, block group-, and county-level, respectively) between the downscaled income data and the reference data, thereby validating the methodology employed. Our approach is applicable to other states for income projections, which can be utilized by a broader audience, including those involved in demographic analysis, economic research, and urban planning.
Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo subsp. ovifera) decoction promotes Trichinella spiralis expulsion during intestinal phase via “Weep and Sweep” mechanism
Authors: Saleh Aml S. , El-Newary Samah A. , Mohamed Walaa A. , Elgamal Abdelbaset M. , Farah Mona A.
Published: January 2024

Trichinosis is a zoonotic disease of communal health concern as it instigated human outbreaks in several countries. Besides, the development of resistance, traditional therapy has numerous antagonistic effects. Thereby, finding efficient natural alternatives is required. In comparison to albendazole, this study evaluated the impact of pumpkin decoction on Trichinella spiralis in experimentally infected mice. The anthelmintic action of pumpkin decoction (500 mg/kg) was determined using T. spiralis infected mice in enteric phase for 5 days. Pumpkin decoction anthelmintic activity fortified by mixing with honey (1:1). Pumpkin decoction and Pumpkin decoction-honey mixture were evaluated by comprising with reference drug, albendazole (50 mg/kg). The T. spiralis adult count was significantly lower in all treated groups, with the pumpkin decoction-honey mixture showing the largest reduction (83.2%) when compared to the infected group (P ≤ 0.001). The intestinal histological changes and the level of COX-2 expression in the intestinal tissue were both significantly reduced in the same group. The pumpkin decoction improved the immune response, as evidenced by a significant decrease in nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and a significant increase in the expression of the transforming growth factor (TGF-1β) and interleukin-17 (IL-17). The pumpkin decoction's anthelmintic action was facilitated by the TGF-1β and IL-17-driven Weep and Sweep mechanism. Both administration of pumpkin decoction beside honey showed the best treatment group that resulted in high infection reduction besides amelioration of biochemical markers and restoration of histological to normal state. In conclusion, pumpkin decoction is highly effective against T. spiralis which could be a promising alternative herbal drug and the pumpkin decoction effect was higher in the case of combination with honey.
Space object identification and classification from hyperspectral material analysis
Authors: Vasile Massimiliano , Walker Lewis , Campbell Andrew , Marto Simão , Murray Paul , Marshall Stephen , Savitski Vasili
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a data processing pipeline designed to extract information from the hyperspectral signature of unknown space objects. The methodology proposed in this paper determines the material composition of space objects from single pixel images. Two techniques are used for material identification and classification: one based on machine learning and the other based on a least square match with a library of known spectra. From this information, a supervised machine learning algorithm is used to classify the object into one of several categories based on the detection of materials on the object. The behaviour of the material classification methods is investigated under non-ideal circumstances, to determine the effect of weathered materials, and the behaviour when the training library is missing a material that is present in the object being observed. Finally the paper will present some preliminary results on the identification and classification of space objects.
In vitro investigation of the blood flow downstream of a 3D-printed aortic valve
Authors: Zeugin Till , Coulter Fergal B. , Gülan Utku , Studart André R. , Holzner Markus
Published: January 2024

The hemodynamics in the aorta as well as the durability of aortic valve prostheses vary greatly between different types of devices. Although placement and sizing of surgical aortic valve prostheses are excellent, the valve geometry of common devices cannot be customized to fit the patient’s anatomy perfectly. Similarly, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) devices are not customizable and may be orientated unfavorably during implantation. Imperfect fit of an aortic valve prosthesis may result in suboptimal performance and in some cases the need for additional surgery. Leveraging the advent of precision, multi-material 3D-printing, a bioinspired silicone aortic valve was developed. The manufacturing technique makes it fully customizable and significantly cheaper to develop and produce than common prostheses. In this study, we assess the hemodynamic performance of such a 3D-printed aortic valve and compare it to two TAVI devices as well as to a severely stenosed valve. We investigate the blood flow distal to the valve in an anatomically accurate, compliant aorta model via three-dimensional particle tracking velocimetry measurements. Our results demonstrate that the 3D-printed aortic valve induces flow patterns and topology compatible with the TAVI valves and showing similarity to healthy aortic blood flow. Compared to the stenosis, the 3D-printed aortic valve reduces turbulent kinetic energy levels and irreversible energy losses by over 75%, reaching values compatible with healthy subjects and conventional TAVIs. Our study substantiates that the 3D-printed heart valve displays a hemodynamic performance similar to established devices and underscores its potential for driving innovation towards patient specific valve prostheses.
Light pollution and habitat fragmentation in the grey mouse lemur
Authors: Le Tallec Thomas , Hozer Clara , Perret Martine , Théry Marc
Published: January 2024

Light pollution, by changing organisms’ behavior, affects locomotion, migration and can ultimately fragment the habitat. To investigate the effects of light pollution on habitat fragmentation, we conducted an experimental study on a nocturnal and photosensitive primate, the grey mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus). Twelve males were housed individually in an apparatus with two cages connected by two corridors, opaque and transparent. During 4 nights, the transparent corridor was illuminated by specific light intensities: 0 lx, 0.3 lx, 20 lx and 51.5 lx corresponding respectively to total darkness, full moon, minimal intensity recommended by the European standard EN-13201 on public lighting, and to light pollution recorded in an urban area. Each night, general activity, use of corridors and cage occupancy were recorded using an infrared camera. For the first time in a nocturnal primate, results demonstrate that light pollution changes the preference of use of corridors, modifies the locomotor pattern and limits the ability of animals to efficiently exploit their environment according to a light intensity-dependent relationship. However, results indicate that a dark corridor allows partial compensation partly preserving general activities. This study highlights the necessity to consider light pollution during the implementation of conservation plans and the relevance of nocturnal frames.
Standardized analysis of syndesmosis stability in ankle trauma with an innovative syndesmosis-test-tool: a biomechanical study
Authors: Kohler Felix Christian , Hallbauer Jakob , Herrmann Lea , Ullrich Bernhard Wilhelm , Biedermann Uta , Wildemann Britt , Hofmann Gunther Olaf , Ramm Roland , Lenz Mark , Marintschev Ivan , Schenk Philipp
Published: January 2024

When treating ankle fractures, the question of syndesmosis complex involvement often arises. So far, there is no standardized method to reliably detect syndesmosis injuries in the surgical treatment of ankle fractures. For this reason, an intraoperative syndesmosis-test-tool (STT) was developed and compared to the recommended and established hook-test (HT). Tests were performed on cadaveric lower legs (n = 20) and the diastasis was visualized by 3D camera. Tests were performed at 50, 80, and 100 N in native conditions and four instability levels. Instability was induced from anterior to posterior and the reverse on the opposite side. The impact on diastasis regarding the direction, the force level, the instability level, and the device used was checked using a general linear model for repeated measurement. The direction of the induced instability showed no influence on the diastasis during the stability tests. The diastasis measured with the STT increased from 0.5 to 3.0 mm depending on the instability, while the range was lower with the HT (1.1 to 2.3 mm). The results showed that the differentiation between the instability levels was statistically significantly better for the developed STT. The last level of maximum instability was significantly better differentiable with the STT compared to the HT. An average visualizable diastasis of more than 2 mm could only be achieved at maximum instability. In conclusion, the newly developed STT was superior to the commonly used HT to detect instability.
The use of information technology to improve interdisciplinary communication during infectious diseases ward rounds on the paediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Willems Jef , Heyndrickx Adeline , Schelstraete Petra , Gadeyne Bram , De Cock Pieter , Vandendriessche Stien , Depuydt Pieter
Published: January 2024

Prospective audit with feedback during infectious diseases ward rounds (IDWR) is a common antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) practice on the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These interdisciplinary meetings rely on the quality of handover, with high risk of omission of information. We developed an electronic platform integrating infection-related patient data (COSARAPed). In the mixed PICU of a Belgian tertiary hospital we conducted an observational prospective cohort study comparing patient handovers during IDWRs using the COSARAPed-platform to those with access only to conventional resources. The quality of handover was investigated directly by assessment if the narrative was in accordance with Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation principles and if adequate demonstration of diagnostic information occurred, and also indirectly by registration if this was only achieved after intervention by the non-presenting AMS team members. We also recorded all AMS-recommendations. During a 6-month study period, 24 IDWRs and 82 patient presentations were assessed. We could only find a statistically significant advantage in favor of COSARAPed by indirect evaluation. We registered 92 AMS-recommendations, mainly resulting in reduced antibiotic pressure. We concluded that the IDWR is an appropriate platform for AMS on the PICU and that the utilisation of COSARAPed may enhance the quality of patient handover.
Numerical modeling of the funnel multiphysical flow of fresh self-compacting concrete considering proportionate heterogeneity of aggregates
Authors: Onyelowe Kennedy C. , Kontoni Denise-Penelope N.
Published: January 2024

Filling ability is one of the prominent rheological properties of the self-compacting concrete (SCC), which has been studied in this research work deploying the functional behavior of the concrete through the studied funnel apparatus using the coupled ANSYS-SPH interface. Seven (7) model cases were studied and optimized. The aim of this numerical study is to propose a more sustainable mix of coarse and fine aggregates proportion that allows for most minimum flow time to enhance a more efficient filling of forms during concreting. The maximum size of the coarse aggregates considered is 20 mm and that of the fine aggregates is below 4 mm. The Bingham model properties for the multiphysics (SPH)-ANSYS models’ simulation are; viscosity = 20 ≤ μ ≤ 100 and the yield stress = 50 $$\le {\tau }_{0}\le 200$$

≤

τ
0

≤
200

, standard flow time, t (s) ranges; 6 ≤ t ≤ 25 and the funnel volume is 12 L. The minimum boundary flow time, which represents the time it takes for the SCC to completely flow through a specified distance, typically measured in seconds was modeled for in the seven (7) model cases. The second case with 40% coarse mixed with 60% fine completely flowed out in 16 s, thus fulfilling the minimum flow time. This minimum flow time was considered alongside other relevant parameters and tests, such as slump flow, passing ability, segregation resistance, and rheological properties (stresses), to comprehensively assess the filling ability of SCC in this model. By considering these factors and the optimized mix (40%C + 60%F:16s), engineers and researchers can optimize the SCC mix design to achieve the desired flowability and filling performance for their specific construction applications. The multiphase optimized mix was further simulated using the coupled interface of the ANSYS-SPH platform operating with the CFX command at air temperature of 25 °C. The results show energy reduction jump at the optimized flow time. Ideally, the mix, 40%C + 60%F:16s has been proposed as the mix with the most efficient flow to achieve the filling ability for sustainable structural concrete construction.
Microbial cement grout anchoring steel reinforcement pull-out test
Authors: Jia Qiang , Zhang Tianjian
Published: January 2024

Microbial cement, known for its superior fluidity, stable crystal formation, and strong bond with concrete, is an effective solution in fixing defects such as voids that appear due to insufficient grouting in the joints of precast concrete components. To evaluate the mechanical properties of rebar anchored with microbial cement grout, three pull-out tests were designed, taking into account parameters such as calcium source concentration, the filler in borehole voids, and the shape of the rebar. The results indicate that specimens with a higher concentration of calcium source require fewer grouting cycles, but the pull-out bearing capacity of the anchored rebar is lower. However, the introduction of quartz sand as a filler in the borehole voids results in a significant increase in the pull-out bearing capacity of the rebar compared to specimens without filler. Among these, the specimens with a medium particle size of 0.5 ~ 1 mm (1/4δ ~ 1/2δ, the gap of δ = 2 mm between the steel bars and hole wall) have the highest pull-out bearing capacity. In comparing rebar shapes, ribbed rebar slightly outperforms smooth round rebar in terms of pull-out bearing capacity. Based on the experimental results analysis, the anchoring mechanism of microbial cement grouting on reinforcement has been elucidated.
New marker for chronic kidney disease progression and mortality in medical-word virtual space
Authors: Kanda Eiichiro , Epureanu Bogdan I. , Adachi Taiji , Sasaki Tamaki , Kashihara Naoki
Published: January 2024

A new marker reflecting the pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been desired for its therapy. In this study, we developed a virtual space where data in medical words and those of actual CKD patients were unified by natural language processing and category theory. A virtual space of medical words was constructed from the CKD-related literature (n = 165,271) using Word2Vec, in which 106,612 words composed a network. The network satisfied vector calculations, and retained the meanings of medical words. The data of CKD patients of a cohort study for 3 years (n = 26,433) were transformed into the network as medical-word vectors. We let the relationship between vectors of patient data and the outcome (dialysis or death) be a marker (inner product). Then, the inner product accurately predicted the outcomes: C-statistics of 0.911 (95% CI 0.897, 0.924). Cox proportional hazards models showed that the risk of the outcomes in the high-inner-product group was 21.92 (95% CI 14.77, 32.51) times higher than that in the low-inner-product group. This study showed that CKD patients can be treated as a network of medical words that reflect the pathophysiological condition of CKD and the risks of CKD progression and mortality.
Stable isotopes in the shell organic matrix for (paleo)environmental reconstructions
Authors: Paleček Dragana , Milano Stefania , Gutiérrez-Zugasti Igor , Talamo Sahra
Published: January 2024

Stable isotope ratios of mollusc shell carbonates have long been used to reconstruct past environmental conditions. Although shells also contain organics, they are seldom used in (paleo)climatic studies. Here, we extract the acid-soluble and insoluble fractions of the organic matrix of modern Mytilus galloprovincialis shells from three sites along a coast–to-upper-estuary environmental gradient to measure their hydrogen (δ2H) and oxygen (δ18O) isotope compositions. Both organic fractions showed isotopic signatures significantly different from those of carbonate and water at each site, indicating the involvement of different fractionation mechanisms. The soluble fraction showed gradual differences in isotope values along the gradient, while the insoluble fraction showed δ2H-δ18O correlation regressions subparallel to the Global and Local Meteoric Water Lines. These results showed the great potential of the shell organic matrix stable isotopes as possible (paleo)environmental proxies, stimulating further research to better define the fractionation mechanisms involved.
Layer-by-layer designer nanoarchitectonics for physical and chemical communications in functional materials
Authors: Ariga Katsuhiko , Song Jingwen , Kawakami Kohsaku
Published: January 2024

In nanoarchitectonics approaches, rational physical and chemical communications will lead to the development of more advanced functional materials. Layer-by-layer assembly can be a powerful tool for this purpose, as exemplified in this feature paper.
Ce-regulating defect and morphology engineering for efficiently enhancing the piezocatalytic performances of BiOBr
Authors: Zhan Lihui , Hu Jindou , Cao Yali , Ning Xueer , Xie Jing , Lu Zhenjiang , Hao Aize
Published: January 2024

Ce-doped BiOBr piezocatalysts are rationally designed by defect and morphology engineering strategies, and demonstrate excellent catalytic performances.
All-element recovery and regeneration of mixed LiNixCoyMn1−x−yO2/LiFePO4 cathode materials by synergistic redox processes
Authors: Zou Jingtian , Peng Dezhao , Hu Wenyang , Su Shilin , Wang Xiaowei , Zhao Zaowen , Wang Shubin , He Di , Li Pengfei , Zhang Jiafeng
Published: January 2024

Given the rising lithium-ion battery retirement trend, there is a pressing need for a sustainable, cost-effective, versatile, and industrially viable positive active powder reprocessing method.
Multi-layer core/shell microgels with internal complexity and their nanocomposites
Authors: Minato Haruka , Ushida Satoki , Yokouchi Kentaro , Suzuki Daisuke
Published: January 2024

In this study, we show that core/shell microgels with multiple layers can be created via a one-pot precipitation polymerization, in which monomers are added to the reaction flask multiple times once most of the previous monomer has been consumed.
Two-dimensional Janus SbTeBr/SbSI heterostructures as multifunctional optoelectronic systems with efficient carrier separation
Authors: Liu Hong-yao , Yang Huan , Zheng Yujun
Published: January 2024

The stacking of two-dimensional (2D) materials is a highly effective approach in the design of high-performance optoelectronic devices.
Color-tunable stable quasi-2D hybrid metal halide perovskites: synthesis, characterization, and optical analysis
Authors: Nayab Farva , Aamir Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Ejaz , Wali Qamar , Sher Muhammad , Khurshid Hafsa , Akhtar Javeed
Published: January 2024

Metal halide perovskites show remarkable optical properties and useful applications in optoelectronic devices.
Effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum dy-1 fermentation on multi-scale structure and physicochemical properties of barley starch
Authors: Zhang Jiayan , Liu Yuhao , Liu Mengting , Zhao Yansheng , Zhu Ying , Cui Shumao , Xiao Xiang
Published: January 2024

The effects of fermentation on barley starch were studied using Lactiplantibacillus plantarum dy-1.
An electrolysis–displacement–distillation approach for the production of Li, Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba metals
Authors: Guo Lei , Gao Shuaibo , Hu Zuojun , Wu Yongxin , Pang Fangzhao , Yin Huayi , Wang Dihua
Published: January 2024

This paper describes a new advancement in the field of green energetic metal production, a finding that unlocks access to extracting Li, Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba metals that are hitherto produced with the generation of Cl2 and heavy CO2.
C(sp2)–S cross-coupling reactions with nickel, visible light, and mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride
Authors: Nikitin Maksim , Babawale Florence , Tastekin Sena , Antonietti Markus , Ghosh Indrajit , König Burkhard
Published: January 2024

Operationally simple photo-nickel C(sp2)–S cross-coupling with a reusable heterogeneous photocatalyst.
Controlled release of doxorubicin from gelatin-based nanoparticles: theoretical and experimental approach
Authors: Fatima Wajiha , Batool Syeda Rubab , Mushtaq Farwa , Aslam Muhammad , Raza Zulfiqar Ali , Nazeer Muhammad Anwaar
Published: January 2024

Doxorubicin (DOX), a well-known chemotherapeutic agent, is extensively used for cancer therapy.
Innovative strategies for nitrogen-incorporating silicon oxycarbide-based preceramic polymer synthesis
Authors: Pérez-Román B. , Merchán del Real A. , Rubio J. , Mazo M. A. , Rubio-Marcos F.
Published: January 2024

Pioneering SiOCN material synthesis using AHPCS and a novel dendron, potentially usable for high-energy supercapacitors, bridging materials science with sustainable energy storage.
Mixed polymer brushes for controlled protein adsorption: state of the art and future prospective
Authors: Atif Muhammad , Balasini Ali
Published: January 2024

Emphasizing mixed polymer brush synthesis techniques, morphologies, and their impact on protein interactions. These brushes are crucial in drug delivery, wound repair scaffolds, and biomedical fields by altering protein interactions.
Shear-induced structural and viscosity changes of amphiphilic patchy nanocubes in suspension
Authors: Ikeda Takahiro , Kobayashi Yusei , Yamakawa Masashi
Published: January 2024

Our study demonstrates the relationship between the design of patchy nanocubes, their self-assembled structures including shear-induced structural changes and the rheological properties of suspensions through coarse-grained molecular simulations.
Elucidating the impact of oxygen functional groups on the catalytic activity of M–N4–C catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction: a density functional theory and machine learning approach
Authors: Xie Liang , Zhou Wei , Huang Yuming , Qu Zhibin , Li Longhao , Yang Chaowei , Ding Yani , Li Junfeng , Meng Xiaoxiao , Sun Fei , Gao Jihui , Zhao Guangbo , Qin Yukun
Published: January 2024

While current experimental and computational studies often concentrate on introducing external structures or idealized MN4 models, we emphasize the often-overlooked impact of inherent OGs within the carbon structure of MN4 materials, presenting a new perspective on their catalytic activity origin.
Vortex fluidic regulated phospholipid equilibria involving liposomes down to sub-micelle size assemblies
Authors: Joseph Nikita , Mirzamani Marzieh , Abudiyah Tarfah , Al-Antaki Ahmed Hussein Mohammed , Jellicoe Matt , Harvey David P. , Crawley Emily , Chuah Clarence , Whitten Andrew E. , Gilbert Elliot Paul , Qian Shuo , He Lilin , Michael Michael Z. , Kumari Harshita , Raston Colin L.
Published: January 2024

Liposomes are formed in high yield under continuous flow in the vortex fluidic device with in situ SANS establishing the co-existence of ∼110 nm liposomes, rafts, micelles, or sub-micelle size assemblies for increasing rotational speed.
Polyacrylonitrile as a versatile matrix for gold nanoparticle-based SERS substrates
Authors: Sharma Saloni , Kumar Rajesh , Yadav Ram Manohar
Published: January 2024

As an effective and ultrasensitive molecule detection technique, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) needs efficient and highly responsive substrates to further enhance its sensitivity and utility.
Optimizing ammonium vanadate crystal structure by facile in situ phase transformation of VO2/NH4V4O10 with special micro–nano feature for advanced aqueous zinc ion batteries
Authors: Chen Liming , Zheng Yu , Zhang Ziqiang , Ma Yu , Wang Yuanming , Xiao Huanhao , Xu Ming , Li Zikun , Yuan Guohui
Published: January 2024

NH4+-defected NH4V4O10 with microflower morphology was synthesized via hydrothermal method and in situ phase transition to improve specific capacity (494.0 mA h g−1), Zn2+ diffusion efficiency and structural stability (71.8% for 2000 cycles).
Anomalous dominated (100) index facet endows ruthenium nanoparticles with accelerated alkaline hydrogen evolution
Authors: Cui Xuemei , Li Zijian , Jang Haeseong , Kim Min Gyu , Liu Shangguo , Hou Liqiang , Liu Xien
Published: January 2024

We adopted a gradual substitute method to prepare (100) index facet-dominated ruthenium nanoparticles, on which water dissociation and hydrogen generation process was achieved at Ru sites with eight-fold and ten-fold coordination, respectively.
Synthesis and characterization of ZrO2–ZnO heterojunction composite for isopropanol detection
Authors: Liu Hang , Li Shenghui , Wang Lvqing , Yang Shengjue , Zhang Yuhong
Published: January 2024

We prepared ZrO2–ZnO heterojunction composites by a simple hydrothermal method as materials sensitive to isopropanol gas. The 5% ZrO2–ZnO sample presented a uniform rod-like structure.
An integrated experimental and theoretical approach to probe Cr(vi) uptake using decorated halloysite nanotubes for efficient water treatment
Authors: Ahmad Shah Syed Nadeem , Zulfiqar Sonia , Ruipérez Fernando , Rafique Muhammad , Iqbal Mudassir , Forrester Michael J. , Sarwar (Late) Muhammad Ilyas , Cochran Eric W.
Published: January 2024

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were surface functionalized using four distinct chemical moieties (amidoxime, hydrazone, ethylenediamine (EDA), and diethylenetriamine (DETA)), producing modified HNTs (H1–H4) capable of binding with Cr(vi) ions.
Benzothiazole DNA gyrase inhibitors and their conjugates with siderophore mimics: design, synthesis and evaluation
Authors: Durcik Martina , Cruz Cristina D. , Scorciapino Mariano Andrea , Ilaš Janez , Tammela Päivi , Ceccarelli Matteo , Mašič Lucija Peterlin , Tomašič Tihomir
Published: January 2024

Potent DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV inhibitor bearing a siderophore mimic moiety displays improved antibacterial activity againstEscherichia coliunder iron-depleted conditions.
Proton conductor NASICON-structure Li1+xCdx/2Zr2−x/2(PO4)3 as solid electrolyte for intermediate-temperature fuel cells
Authors: Li Xiuxiu , Hu Enyi , Wang Faze , Lund Peter , Zhu Bin , Wang Jun
Published: January 2024

Lithium doping creates abundant interstitial ion migration space; the proton's lower migration barrier enables NASICON Li1+xCdx/2Zr2−x/2(PO4)3, a promising proton conductor.
Rapid synthesis of active Pt single atoms and Ru clusters on carbon black via a highly efficient microwave strategy for the hydrogen evolution reaction in acidic and alkaline media
Authors: Zhu Xinyu , Fang Minghao , Yang Bozhi , Zhan Meiling , Ke Shaorou , Yang Fan , Wu Xiaowen , Liu Yangai , Huang Zhaohui , Min Xin
Published: January 2024

Using a highly efficient microwave reduction strategy, we successfully designed a novel synergistic electrocatalyst, Pt1Rux@C, which was synthesized in an impressively short time of only 50 seconds.