bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of branched polyethyleneimine concentration on the spectroscopic and morphology of BPEI/AuNPs for photocatalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Abd El-Mongy S. , Seoudi R. , Hussein A. M.
Published: July 2024

In this work, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized and stabilized by branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI) due to their amine groups as a low-cost alternative method. The concentration of BPEI as a critical factor can be used to optimize stable AuNPs with varying sizes. To evaluate BPEI concentrations on surface plasmonic resonance (SPR), size distribution, chemical coordination, and photocatalytic activity of BPEI-AuNPs products, UV–visible, transmission electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used. The SPR bands appeared at 524, 520, and 517 nm as the BPEI concentration increased (10–30 µL), and the band remained stable as BPEI increased. TEM images show a wide range of sizes (polydisperse) for BPEI/AuNPs were formed. According to TEM images, gold nanoparticle sizes were calculated at (18, 12, and 5 nm) for BPEI concentrations 10, 20, and 30 µL. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed that amine groups from BPEI play an important role in stabilizing AuNPs. For accessing the photocatalytic activity of BPEI-AuNPs, the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) by borohydride is a widely used model reaction. As the AuNPs sizes decreased from 18 to 5 nm, the reduction rate was accelerated and the reaction time of 4-NP to 4-AP conversion decreased from 270 to 150 s.
Rock-fall runout simulation using a QGIS plugin along north–west coast of Malta (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Sarkar Nabanita , Devoto Stefano , Vandelli Vittoria , Rossi Sofia , Soldati Mauro , Rizzo Angela
Published: July 2024

Coastal instability in the form of rock fall is widespread along the northern coasts of Malta and is strictly connected to structural controls, such as lithology and tectonics. The local geological and geomorphological setting combined with extreme weather events, whose spatial and temporal occurrence is enhanced by ongoing climate and land use change, determines rock-fall hazard along the north–west coast of Malta, a hotspot for Mediterranean tourism. The present research portrays the results of a pilot study aimed at analyzing rock-fall runout probability along this stretch of coast. Cliffs and downslope terrains were the object of detailed field surveys. This included the detection of persistent joints in the source areas and the identification of slope-forming materials like debris and boulders present along the downslope terrains. The outcomes of the field surveys and GIS-based processing of topographic information were used for identification of the input parameters for rock-fall runout simulation. The latter was performed using a QGIS based plugin (QPROTO) that allows to determine expected runout extents and assess the rock-fall susceptibility. The result is the characterization and mapping of rock-fall runout probability zones along six investigated sites. The outputs of the research and the replicability of the method can be of interest for authorities aiming at defining risk management actions and undertaking mitigation measures compliant with sustainable development of coastal areas.
Comparative analysis of Sarcopenia in hospitalized elderly: exploring the impact of liver cirrhosis
Authors: Romano A. D. , Cornacchia M. G. , Sangineto M. , Di Gioia G. , Villani R. , Serviddio G.
Published: July 2024

The progressive aging of the population has led to a rise in geriatric pathologies, with sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass and function loss, becoming a crucial prognostic indicator. This study investigates sarcopenia in elderly hospitalized patients with advanced chronic liver disease (cirrhotic) and non-liver disease patients, comparing their prevalence and exploring correlations with anthropometric and biochemical factors. The cohort of 115 patients, including 50 cirrhotic and 65 non-cirrhotic individuals, exhibited significant comorbidities and a mean age of 78.4 years. Cirrhotic patients presented distinct laboratory parameters indicating liver damage. Applying European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria, probable sarcopenia prevalence was similar in cirrhotic (62%) and non-cirrhotic (63%) patients. Stratifying probable sarcopenia into confirmed sarcopenia and dynapenia revealed no significant differences between populations. Correlation analyses demonstrated positive associations between Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass (ASM) and anthropometric parameters, malnutrition risk, and grip strength. In cirrhotic patients, muscle mass inversely correlated with liver damage. Odds ratio analysis highlighted the Mini Nutritional Assesment’s (MNA) significant predictive capability for sarcopenia. ROC curve analysis affirmed MNA and biochemical markers' combined use, such as transferrin, albumin, total cholesterol, lymphocyte count and C-reactive protein as a strong predictor. Despite limitations, such as a small sample size, this study underscores the significance of thorough sarcopenia screening in elderly hospitalized patients, especially those with cirrhosis. Indeed, individuals with end-stage liver disease are particularly susceptible to sarcopenia. A more personalized approach utilizing tools like MNA and biochemical markers could prove beneficial. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and inform clinical interventions.
Comparing two crowdsourcing platforms: assessing their potential for mapping Antarctica
Authors: Gulnerman Ayse Giz , Senel Muge , Gokduman Ozan Deniz
Published: July 2024

Abstracts

Geographical data acquisition in Antarctic regions is challenging due to the lack of human habitation, harsh environmental conditions, and limited accessibility. This research explores and evaluates the capability of two crowdsourcing platforms in mapping facilities across Antarctic regions. The study presents crowdsourcing projects related to polar regions in the literature. The methodology section outlines the data acquisition techniques employed by Flickr and Happywhale, and the spatial evaluation methods applied to the collected data. In the implementation and results section, the spatiotemporal potential of the data obtained from the two identified crowdsourced platforms is assessed, and the results based on spatial statistical methods are compared. In the discussion and conclusion section, the contribution of the two identified crowdsourced platforms to mapping activities is evaluated in terms of spatial, temporal, and content differences. This study reveals that Happywhale offers data with higher spatial consistency, considering seasonal representation and spatial autocorrelation. Additionally, content restrictions and reliance on GPS enhance spatial accuracy in Happywhale. At the same time, the liberation of data production leads to lower quality but increased quantity, diversity, and spatial coverage, as observed in Flickr. By comparing two crowdsourced platforms, this study enhances data acquisition and evaluation potential in Antarctica.
FDG-PET in the diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia: a systematic review
Authors: Mirbod Melika , Ayubcha Cyrus , Redden Hyae Won Kim , Teichner Eric , Subtirelu Robert C. , Patel Raj , Raynor William , Werner Thomas , Alavi Abass , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth
Published: July 2024

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a disease known to affect the frontal and temporal regions of the left hemisphere. PPA is often an indication of future development of dementia, specifically semantic dementia (SD) for frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA) as an atypical presentation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The purpose of this review is to clarify the value of 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) in the detection and diagnosis of PPA. A comprehensive review of literature was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The three PPA subtypes show distinct regions of hypometabolism in FDG-PET imaging with SD in the anterior temporal lobes, LPA in the left temporo-parietal junction, and nonfluent/agrammatic Variant PPA (nfvPPA) in the left inferior frontal gyrus and insula. Despite the distinct patterns, overlapping hypometabolic areas can complicate differential diagnosis, especially in patients with SD who are frequently diagnosed with AD. Integration with other diagnostic tools could refine the diagnostic process and lead to improved patient outcomes. Future research should focus on validating these findings in larger populations and exploring the therapeutic implications of early, accurate PPA diagnosis with more targeted therapeutic interventions.
Korean flowering cherry (Prunus × yedoensis Matsum.) response to elevated ozone: physiological traits and biogenic volatile organic compounds emission
Authors: Lim Yea Ji , Kwak Myeong Ja , Lee Jongkyu , Kang Dawon , Je Sun Mi , Woo Su Young
Published: July 2024

Ozone (O3) absorption through leaf stomata disrupts plant physiological processes, prompting various defense mechanisms to mitigate O3-induced harm. This study measured parameters including cell structure, gas exchange, carbon assimilation, lipid peroxidation, and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) emissions to evaluate the physiological impact of Prunus × yedoensis under elevated ozone (E-O3) exposure. The seedlings exhibited a slight stimulatory effect during the early phases of E–O3 exposure; however, E–O3 beyond a specific threshold significantly and negatively affected photosynthetic parameters, pigment content, and potential antioxidant capacity, and E–O3 was significantly correlated with the BVOCs emission rate. After three weeks of E–O3 exposure, no significant differences were observed in leaf stomatal appearance in the field emission scanning electron microscopy results, but according to the results of leaf mesophyll cell ultrastructure, grana degradation, membrane decomposition, cell wall thickening, wart–like protrusion formation, and increased plastoglobulus density within the chloroplasts were observed. Chlorophyll content significantly decreased by 38.71%, and solute leakage increased by 20.57% in the E–O3 group. The net photosynthetic rate was almost two times lower with E–O3. In contrast, there were no significant differences in stomatal conductance. In conclusion, E–O3 can induce a hormetic stimulatory effect during the early exposure phase. However, when the critical threshold is exceeded, O3 adversely affects the physiology of P. × yedoensis seedlings. Therefore, E–O3 is a harmful air pollutant that hinders the growth of woody plants, and urban trees require the continuous management of O3 phytotoxicity.
Clinical analysis of Bornavirus Encephalitis cases demonstrates a small time window for Etiological Diagnostics and treatment attempts, a large case series from Germany 1996–2022
Authors: Pörtner Kirsten , Wilking Hendrik , Frank Christina , Stark Klaus , Wunderlich Silke , Tappe Dennis
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The emerging zoonotic Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) and the variegated squirrel bornavirus 1 (VSBV-1) cause severe and fatal human encephalitis in Germany. We conducted the first systematic clinical analysis of acute, molecularly confirmed fatal bornavirus encephalitis cases comprising 21 BoDV-1 and four VSBV-1 patients to identify options for better diagnosis and timely treatment.

Methods

Analyses were based on medical records and, for BoDV-1, on additional medical interviews with patients’ relatives.

Results

Disease onset was unspecific, often with fever and headache, inconsistently mixed with early fluctuating neurological symptoms, all rapidly leading to severe encephalopathy and progressive vigilance decline. Very shortly after seeking the first medical advice (median time interval 2 and 0 days for BoDV-1 and VSBV-1, respectively), all except one patient were hospitalised upon manifest neurological symptoms (median 10 and 16 days respectively after general symptom onset). Neurological symptoms varied, always progressing to coma and death. BoDV-1 and VSBV-1 patients required ventilation a median of three and five days, and died a median of 32 and 72 days, after hospitalisation. Death occurred mostly after supportive treatment cessation at different points in time based on poor prognosis. Disease duration therefore showed a wide, incomparable range.

Conclusion

The extremely rapid progression is the most obvious clinical characteristic of bornavirus encephalitis and the timeframe for diagnosis and targeted therapy is very short. Therefore, our results demand an early clinical suspicion based on symptomatology, epidemiology, imaging, and laboratory findings, followed by prompt virological testing as a prerequisite for any potentially effective treatment.
Closed-loop Laser Volume Ablation with Adaptive Scan Paths
Authors: Buser Matthias , Menold Tobias , Michalowski Andreas
Published: July 2024

This research focuses on closed-loop control in laser volume ablation, also known as laser milling. Such process control enables precise ablation results on workpieces with much wider tolerances regarding the initial surface geometry, internal structure, or its response to the incident laser beam, compared to conventional open-loop processing. However, state of the art closed-loop ablation systems incorporate the process control at the cost of increased processing time. The two main causes are the alternating between processing and measuring, and the use of static scan paths that do not adapt continuously to the evolving geometry of the workpiece during processing. This study addresses this issue by proposing a parallelized work flow of processing, measuring the surface topography and adaptive path planning, eliminating interruptions and achieving faster processing through continuously optimized scan paths. The realized machining system achieved a mean reduction in processing time of 29%, 36%, and 52% on three different test geometries compared to the state of the art.
Attention-guided mask learning for self-supervised 3D action recognition
Authors: Zhang Haoyuan
Published: July 2024

Most existing 3D action recognition works rely on the supervised learning paradigm, yet the limited availability of annotated data limits the full potential of encoding networks. As a result, effective self-supervised pre-training strategies have been actively researched. In this paper, we target to explore a self-supervised learning approach for 3D action recognition, and propose the Attention-guided Mask Learning (AML) scheme. Specifically, the dropping mechanism is introduced into contrastive learning to develop Attention-guided Mask (AM) module as well as mask learning strategy, respectively. The AM module leverages the spatial and temporal attention to guide the corresponding features masking, so as to produce the masked contrastive object. The mask learning strategy enables the model to discriminate different actions even with important features masked, which makes action representation learning more discriminative. What’s more, to alleviate the strict positive constraint that would hinder representation learning, the positive-enhanced learning strategy is leveraged in the second-stage training. Extensive experiments on NTU-60, NTU-120, and PKU-MMD datasets show that the proposed AML scheme improves the performance in self-supervised 3D action recognition, achieving state-of-the-art results.
Performance of ACR-TIRADS in assessing thyroid nodules does not vary according to patient age
Authors: Leoncini Andrea , Curti Marco , Ruinelli Lorenzo , Gamarra Elena , Trimboli Pierpaolo
Published: July 2024

Aims

A few studies have evaluated the performance of the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting And Data System (ACR-TIRADS) in pediatric and elderly patients and found differences between the latter two age groups and middle adulthood. Thus, the present study was undertaken to explore the possible variation of ACR-TIRADS performance across different ages of patients.

Methods

A retrospective population undergoing thyroidectomy was selected to use histology as the reference standard. Ultrasound images were reviewed, and alignment of ACR-TIRADS with the corresponding histological diagnosis was made afterwards. Results of the age groups were compared. The ACR-TIRADS diagnostic performance was calculated considering the assessment of nodules across risk categories (i.e., from TR1 to TR5), rate of unnecessary FNAC (UN-FNAC), and rate of necessary but non-performed FNAC (NNP-FNAC).

Results

Overall, 114 patients with a total of 220 nodules (46 carcinomas) were included. The rate of UN-FNAC was 66.3%, being 93.1% in TR3, 82.1% in TR4, and 31.4% in TR5. There were 15 NNP-FNACs. No significant difference was observed between age groups in terms of sample size, nodule, cancer, and FNAC. The nodule assessment according to ACR-TIRADS categories did not vary across ages. Sensitivity and specificity recorded in three age tertiles were not significantly different.

Conclusions

The present study shows that the performance of ACR-TIRADS is not significantly influenced by patient age.
Facilitating well-being: an examination of an online trauma-informed faculty/staff training designed to support college student resilience
Authors: Ray Elizabeth C. , Perko Ann , Oehme Karen , Bradley Lyndi , Arpan Laura
Published: July 2024

College students report high psychological distress, mental health problems and anxiety. Research indicates that faculty and staff can help support these students in crisis, but there is limited trauma-informed training for higher education professionals who are not mental health counselors. This study explored an evidence-based online training program designed to help faculty/staff members facilitate well-being and resilience among college students. To test the training, a systematic program evaluation was conducted. Prior to completing the training, participants (n = 52) took a pretest. Then, after completing the training, they took a posttest. Results indicated a significant difference between pre and posttest. There were more positive attitudes toward trauma-informed approaches and resilience resources; stronger beliefs about prevalence and effects of psychological trauma; greater self-efficacy to perform trauma-informed approaches; and greater confidence in trauma-informed knowledge. Additionally, participants reported they were likely to use tools learned during the training. Thus, indicating that a self-paced, convenient, and culturally sensitive training may be beneficial for faculty and staff as they aid in student success. Practical implications, participant comments and specific suggestions for colleges are also discussed.
The Mantle Transition Zone Structure Beneath the Pamir Plateau and Western Tian Shan and Adjacent Regions
Authors: Wu Yingkai , Bao Xuewei
Published: July 2024

Systematical investigation of deep mantle structure beneath the Pamir Plateau, western Tian Shan and their surroundings is of great significance to understand dynamics of continental collision, intracontinental orogenesis and deformation in response to the Indo‐Eurasian collision. In this research, we imaged the mantle transition zone (MTZ) structure beneath these regions using 42,560 P‐wave receiver functions obtained from 352 seismic stations and 6,173 teleseismic events. Our results reveal significant 15–20 km depression of the 410‐km discontinuity (d410) mainly beneath the southern Kazakh Shield, which is consistent with the low‐velocity anomaly in tomographic models and thus attributed to the mantle upwelling from the MTZ, providing evidence for the fossil Tian Shan plume responsible for the Late Cretaceous‐Paleocene basaltic magmatism (74–52 Ma) at the western Tian Shan. Considering that the d410 is slightly depressed by ∼8 km beneath the western Tian Shan, deep subduction of the Tarim lithosphere is likely excluded and its subhorizontal indentation into the Tian Shan is preferred. As a result, segments of thickened Tian Shan lithosphere delaminated and accumulated near the 660‐km discontinuity (d660), which induce small‐scale upwelling across the d410 there. The d410 is depressed by ∼10–15 km beneath Tarim, which is interpreted to be caused by the mantle upwelling originating from beneath the d410. The d660 below the central Hindu Kush is extremely depressed by 25–30 km, providing direct evidence for the deep subduction of Indian lithosphere into the bottom of the MTZ and suggesting different mechanisms for continental collision between the Hindu Kush and Pamir Plateau.
Influence of Terrestrial Nitrogen Dynamics on Mesoscale Near‐Surface Meteorological Fields
Authors: Cai Xitian , Cao Yeer , Zhang Guo , Liang Jingjing , Zheng Hui , Li Kai , Zeng Zhenzhong , Dai Yongjiu , Yang Zong‐Liang
Published: July 2024

The influence of biogeochemical cycles, particularly the nitrogen cycle, on near‐surface meteorological fields is a critical yet understudied aspect of regional climate modeling. Neglecting such interactions may compromise the accurate representation of vegetation growth and hydrological processes in climate models, consequently affecting the simulated regional near‐surface climate conditions. In order to quantify such effects, we coupled the nitrogen‐augmented Noah‐MP land surface model with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model v4.1.2 (hereafter WRF‐CN) for regional climate modeling. Compared to the default WRF simulation without nitrogen dynamics, the WRF‐CN simulated net primary productivity, gross primary productivity (GPP), and leaf area index (LAI) were all higher in the study region. Because WRF underestimated the observed GPP and LAI due to the fixed nitrogen limitation of plant growth, these higher estimations improved WRF‐CN's performance in modeling GPP and LAI, which translated into improved simulations of near‐surface climate. Specifically, for the 2‐m air temperature, compared to WRF, WRF‐CN reduced the mean absolute error and root mean square error by 14.45% and 14.19%, respectively, while increased the Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient by 7.23%, with the most pronounced improvements in the regions dominated by croplands. Our findings shed light on the crucial interactions between biogeochemical processes and near‐surface meteorological conditions, emphasizing the significance of incorporating terrestrial nitrogen dynamics in regional climate models. These insights contribute to advancing our understanding of climate system dynamics and improving the accuracy of climate predictions at the mesoscale.
Need for Better Accounting of CFC-12 Emissions from China
Authors: Russell Lynn
Published: July 2024

New observations show that bottom-up tracking of CFC-12 emissions from China are underestimated, illustrating the need for better accounting for reductions from the Montreal Protocol.
Causality between six psychiatric disorders and digestive tract cancers risk: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Fu Qi , Li Linghui , Zhuoma Niyang , Ma Rui , Zhao Zhixi , Quzuo Zhaxi , Wang Zhen , Yangzong Deji , Di Ji
Published: July 2024

Associations between psychiatric disorders and digestive tract cancers have been proposed. However, the causal link between these factors remains unclear. This study pioneers Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the genetic link between psychiatric disorders and digestive tract cancers risk. We analysed data on six psychiatric disorders [schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and panic disorder (PD)] and digestive tract cancers [esophagus cancer (EC), gastric cancer (GC), and colorectal cancer (CRC)] from genome-wide association studies databases. Using instrumental variables identified from significant single nucleotide polymorphism associations, we employed the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method alongside the weighted median (WM) method and MR-Egger regression. The results revealed no causal link between psychiatric disorders and the risk of EC or GC. Psychiatric disorders were not identified as risk factors for CRC. Notably, PD demonstrated a lower CRC risk (OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.66–0.93, P = 0.01). This MR analysis underscores the lack of a causal association between psychiatric disorders and digestive tract cancers risk while suggesting a potential protective effect of PD against CRC.
Preparation and characterization of conjugated PVA/PANi blend films doped with functionalized graphene for thermoelectric applications
Authors: Morad M. A. , Abo Ghazala M. S. , El-Shaarawy M. G. , Gouda M. E. , Elrasasi T. Y.
Published: July 2024

Flexible nanocomposite thick films consisting of PVA0.7PANi0.3 polymer blend doped with different concentrations of nanoplatelets functionalized Graphene (NPFGx) (where x = 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt.%) were fabricated using the solution cast technique. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis (EDX), and Fourier-transform infrared spectra (FT-IR) were used to study the structure of the samples. The results showed that the ordered structure, its orientation, the PANis' well dispersion, and the electrostatic forces play a significant role in enhancing the interfaces between the polymer blend and the NPFG. Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) and Thermoelectrical analyses (TE) showed that the PVA-PANi conducts a promised conjugated blend for thermoelectric applications. The introduction of the NPFG contents into the blend increased the TE measurements as the DC electrical conductivity ≈ 0.0114 (S cm−1), power factor ≈ 3.93 × 10–3 (W m−1 K−2), and Z.T. ≈ 8.4 × 10–7, for the 25 wt.% NPFG nanocomposite film. The effect of the polymers’ phonon contribution in the thermal conductivity controlling and enhancing the thermal stability of the prepared nanocomposite films.
Modeling hippocampal spatial cells in rodents navigating in 3D environments
Authors: Aziz Azra , Patil Bharat K. , Lakshmikanth Kailash , Sreeharsha Peesapati S. S. , Mukhopadhyay Ayan , Chakravarthy V. Srinivasa
Published: July 2024

Studies on the neural correlates of navigation in 3D environments are plagued by several issues that need to be solved. For example, experimental studies show markedly different place cell responses in rats and bats, both navigating in 3D environments. In this study, we focus on modelling the spatial cells in rodents in a 3D environment. We propose a deep autoencoder network to model the place and grid cells in a simulated agent navigating in a 3D environment. The input layer to the autoencoder network model is the HD layer, which encodes the agent’s HD in terms of azimuth (θ) and pitch angles (ϕ). The output of this layer is given as input to the Path Integration (PI) layer, which computes displacement in all the preferred directions. The bottleneck layer of the autoencoder model encodes the spatial cell-like responses. Both grid cell and place cell-like responses are observed. The proposed model is verified using two experimental studies with two 3D environments. This model paves the way for a holistic approach using deep neural networks to model spatial cells in 3D navigation.
Geological controls of mineralization occurrences in the Egyptian Eastern Desert using advanced integration of remote sensing and magnetic data
Authors: Eldosouky Ahmed M. , Eleraki M. , Mansour Aya , Saada Saada A. , Zamzam Sara
Published: July 2024

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of mineralization exploration in the Egyptian Eastern Desert (ED), one of the most sought-after areas for those interested in mining industry, by integrating Landsat-9 images and geophysical magnetic data. Employing advanced techniques like Principal Component (PC) analysis, Minimum Noise Fraction (MNf) transform, and Band-Ratio (B-Ratio), the research focuses on mapping lithological units, hydrothermal alteration regions, and structural elements. Composite images derived from specific PC, and MNf bands, and B-Ratio exhibit superior lithological unit identification. The findings emphasize that there are significant variations in the types of rocks extend from the southern to the northern parts of the ED. Hydrothermal alteration mapping, guided by B-Ratio results, aids qualitative lithological discrimination. A novel false color composite image optimizes Landsat-9 B-Ratios, enhancing rock unit discrimination. Correlation analyses reveal associations between mineralization types and major lithological units, while exploration of the magnetic anomaly map highlights its role in correlating mineralization sites. Structural features, analyzed through Center for Exploration-Targeting Grid-Analysis (CET-GA) and Center for Exploration-Targeting Porphyry-Analysis (CET-GA) with Tilt Derivative of RTP (TDR) techniques, contribute to a robust association between regions with medium to high structural density and porphyry intrusions and mineralization. The study significantly supports the advanced exploration geoscience, providing insights into the geological structures and dynamics governing mineralization in the Egyptian ED.
Molecular dynamics-guided optimization of BGM0504 enhances dual-target agonism for combating diabetes and obesity
Authors: Yuan Jiandong , Liu Wenlang , Jiang Xiaohui , Huang Yangqing , Zong Leilei , Ding Haifeng , Shen Xinyi , Sun Yujia , Feng Xiangyang , Li Xionghao , Song Yunsong , Gu Jianing , Wang Yuhuai , Liu Hao , Zheng Zheng
Published: July 2024

The dual activation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. Tirzepatide, a dual agonist peptide, has exhibited superior clinical efficacy in glycemic and weight control compared to selective GLP-1R agonists. Nevertheless, the structural basis of Tirzepatide's extended half-life, attributed to an acylation side chain on the parent peptide, raises questions regarding its partial agonistic activity. Employing molecular dynamics simulations, we explored the dynamic processes of peptide-receptor interactions. We uncovered a crucial salt bridge between parent peptide and GLP-1R/GIPR at K20, a feature not discernible in cryo-electron microscopy structures. Building upon these insights, we developed an optimization strategy based on the parent peptide which involved repositioning the acylation side chain. The results of both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the optimized peptide has twofold to threefold increase in agonistic activity compared to Tirzepatide while maintaining its extended half-life in plasma. This led to the design of BGM0504, which proved to be more effective than its predecessor, Tirzepatide, in both laboratory and animal studies.
Mutations in glioblastoma proteins do not disrupt epitope presentation and recognition, maintaining a specific CD8 T cell immune response potential
Authors: Tarabini Renata Fioravanti , Fioravanti Vieira Gustavo , Rigo Maurício Menegatti , de Souza Ana Paula Duarte
Published: July 2024

Antigen-specific cytotoxic CD8 T cells are extremely effective in controlling tumor growth and have been the focus of immunotherapy approaches. We leverage in silico tools to investigate whether the occurrence of mutations in proteins previously described as immunogenic and highly expressed by glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), such as Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), Phosphatase and Tensin homolog (PTEN) and Tumor Protein 53 (TP53), may be contributing to the differential presentation of immunogenic epitopes. We recovered Class I MHC binding information from wild-type and mutated proteins using the Immune Epitope Database (IEDB). After that, we built peptide-MHC (pMHC-I) models in HLA-arena, followed by hierarchical clustering analysis based on electrostatic surface features from each complex. We identified point mutations that are determinants for the presentation of a set of peptides from TP53 protein. We point to structural features in the pMHC-I complexes of wild-type and mutated peptides, which may play a role in the recognition of CD8 T cells. To further explore these features, we performed 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations for the peptide pairs (wt/mut) selected. In pursuit of novel therapeutic targets for GBM treatment, we selected peptides where our predictive results indicated that mutations would not disrupt epitope presentation, thereby maintaining a specific CD8 T cell immune response. These peptides hold potential for future GBM interventions, including peptide-based or mRNA vaccine development applications.
Experimenting to increase the effectiveness of a national campaign on hygiene behavior in Tanzania
Authors: Aunger Robert , Coville Aidan , Kwezi Lukas , Mwakitalima Anyitike , Mwambuli Kaposo , Reichert Arndt , Sansonetti Jérôme
Published: July 2024

Through Tanzania’s National Sanitation Campaign, we study the effectiveness of two common elements of behavior change campaigns: endorsements from celebrities and testimonials. Using four experiments in Tanzania in early 2021 as part of the national campaign, we find that including endorsements and testimonials in text messages sent to individuals significantly increases self-reported hygiene behavior. These results mask important heterogeneity based on the source of endorsement or framing of the testimonial and provide insights into cost-effective approaches for changing behavior at scale.
Absolute permeability estimation from microtomography rock images through deep learning super-resolution and adversarial fine tuning
Authors: de Castro Vargas Fernandes Júlio , Duarte Vidal Alyne , Carvalho Medeiros Lizianne , Menezes dos Anjos Carlos Eduardo , Surmas Rodrigo , Gonçalves Evsukoff Alexandre
Published: July 2024

The carbon capture and storage (CCS) process has become one of the main technologies used for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The success of CCS projects relies on accurate subsurface reservoir petrophysical characterization, enabling efficient storage and captured $$\textrm{CO}_2$$

CO
2

containment. In digital rock physics, X-ray microtomography ($$\upmu $$
μ
-CT) is applied to characterize reservoir rocks, allowing a more assertive analysis of physical properties such as porosity and permeability, enabling better simulations of porous media flow. Estimating petrophysical properties through numeric simulations usually requires high-resolution images, which are expensive and time-inefficient to obtain with $$\upmu $$
μ
-CT. To address this, we propose using two deep learning models: a super-resolution model to enhance the quality of low-resolution images and a surrogate model that acts as a substitute for numerical simulations to estimate the petrophysical property of interest. A correction process inspired by generative adversarial network (GAN) adversarial training is applied. In this approach, the super-resolution model acts as a generator, creating high-resolution images, and the surrogate network acts as a discriminator. By adjusting the generator, images that correct the errors in the surrogate’s estimations are produced. The proposed method was applied to the DeePore dataset. The results shows the proposed approach improved permeability estimation overall.
Open-loop quantum control of small-size networks for high-order cumulants and cross-correlations sensing
Authors: D’Arrigo Antonio , Piccitto Giulia , Falci Giuseppe , Paladino Elisabetta
Published: July 2024

Quantum control techniques are one of the most efficient tools for attaining high-fidelity quantum operations and a convenient approach for quantum sensing and quantum noise spectroscopy. In this work, we investigate dynamical decoupling while processing an entangling two-qubit gate based on an Ising-xx interaction, each qubit affected by pure dephasing classical correlated 1/f-noises. To evaluate the gate error, we used the Magnus expansion introducing generalized filter functions that describe decoupling while processing and allow us to derive an approximate analytic expression as a hierarchy of nested integrals of noise cumulants. The error is separated in contributions of Gaussian and non-Gaussian noise, with the corresponding generalized filter functions calculated up to the fourth order. By exploiting the properties of selected pulse sequences, we show that it is possible to extract the second-order statistics (spectrum and cross-spectrum) and to highlight non-Gaussian features contained in the fourth-order cumulant. We discuss the applicability of these results to state-of-the-art small networks based on solid-state platforms.
Fabrication of nickel phytate modified bio-based polyol rigid polyurethane foam with enhanced compression-resistant and improved flame-retardant
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Zhaoqian , Ding Shuai , Wang Zhi
Published: July 2024

A bio-based flame retardant nickel phytate (PA-Ni) was synthesized and combined with soybean oil-based polyol (SO) to create a green rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) with enhanced compressive strength, good thermal stability and flame retardant. The results showed that the RPUF-SO2/Ni3 with 3 wt% PA-Ni had the highest initial and termination temperature, maximum thermal decomposition rate temperature and carbon residue, and better thermal stability. Its limiting oxygen index was increased by 2.6% compared with RPUF-SO2 without PA-Ni added, and the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release rate (THR) were reduced by 14.92% and 19.92%, respectively. In addition, RPUF-SO2/Ni3 had the lowest Ds under the conditions of flame (18.90) and flameless (22.41), and had the best smoke suppression effect. And the compressive strength of RPUF-SO/Ni3 was significantly enhanced by the addition of PA-Ni. The results show that the improvement of flame retardancy of RPUF is mainly the result of the combined effect of gas-phase and condensed-phase flame retardancy, among which the flame retardancy of RPUF-SO/Ni3 was the best. The current findings offer a practical way to produce green and low-carbon RPUF as well as promising prospects for the material's safe application.
The use of a protein network analysis to explore the complexity of early skin inflammation after oronasal mask application- A pilot study
Authors: Feldt Amanda , Ghafouri Bijar , Worsley Peter R. , Bergstrand Sara
Published: July 2024

Medical devices, such as non-invasive ventilation masks, save lives in health care settings but can be a cause of tissue injuries due to the pressure and shear loads on skin and soft tissue. These pressure injuries could be painful for the individual and cause a significant economic impact on healthcare providers. In the etiology of device related pressure ulcers, inflammation plays an important role. However, the exact nature and timing of inflammatory biomarker upregulation is still unknown in the early stages of skin damage. This study aimed to explore the inflammatory profile of vulnerable skin sites following non-invasive mask application on a convenience sample of eleven hospital patients. Seventy-one inflammatory proteins were explored from sebum sampled at the skin surface after oronasal mask application. A multivariate analysis to investigate differences between loaded and control site was conducted, with a protein network analysis used to explore interactions in the early inflammation. The study revealed that 21 cytokines and chemokines were important for the separation between loaded and control site. These proteins were associated with remodeling of tissue, vascular wound healing and/or cell death.
Weak shock compaction on granular salt
Authors: Seo Dawa , Heatwole Eric M. , Feagin Trevor A. , Lopez-Pulliam Ian D. , Luscher Darby J. , Koskelo Aaron , Kenamond Mack , Rousculp Christopher , Ticknor Christopher , Scovel Christina , Daphalapurkar Nitin P.
Published: July 2024

This study conducted integrated experiments and computational modeling to investigate the speeds of a developing shock within granular salt and analyzed the effect of various impact velocities up to 245 m/s. Experiments were conducted on table salt utilizing a novel setup with a considerable bore length for the sample, enabling visualization of a moving shock wave. Experimental analysis using particle image velocimetry enabled the characterization of shock velocity and particle velocity histories. Mesoscale simulations further enabled advanced analysis of the shock wave’s substructure. In simulations, the shock front’s precursor was shown to have a heterogeneous nature, which is usually modeled as uniform in continuum analyses. The presence of force chains results in a spread out of the shock precursor over a greater ramp distance. With increasing impact velocity, the shock front thickness reduces, and the precursor of the shock front becomes less heterogeneous. Furthermore, mesoscale modeling suggests the formation of force chains behind the shock front, even under the conditions of weak shock. This study presents novel mesoscale simulation results on salt corroborated with data from experiments, thereby characterizing the compaction front speeds in the weak shock regime.
Foodborne bacteria in milk and milk products along the water buffalo milk chain in Bangladesh
Authors: Singha Shuvo , Koop Gerrit , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Ceciliani Fabrizio , Howlader Md. Matiar Rahman , Boqvist Sofia , Cremonesi Paola , Hoque M. Nazmul , Persson Ylva , Lecchi Cristina
Published: July 2024

Controlling foodborne pathogens in buffalo milk is crucial for ensuring food safety. This study estimated the prevalence of nine target genes representing seven critical foodborne bacteria in milk and milk products, and identified factors associated with their presence in buffalo milk chain nodes in Bangladesh. One hundred and forty-three milk samples from bulk tank milk (n = 34), middlemen (n = 37), milk collection centers (n = 37), and milk product shops (n = 35) were collected and analyzed using RT-PCR. Escherichia (E.) coli, represented through yccT genes, was the most prevalent throughout the milk chain (81–97%). Chi-squared tests were performed to identify the potential risk factors associated with the presence of foodborne bacteria encoded for different genes. At the middleman level, the prevalence of E. coli was associated with the Mymensingh, Noakhali, and Bhola districts (P = 0.01). The prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes, represented through inlA genes, and Yersinia (Y.) enterocolitica, represented through yst genes, were the highest at the farm level (65–79%). The prevalence of both bacteria in bulk milk was associated with the Noakhali and Bhola districts (P < 0.05). The prevalence of Y. enterocolitica in bulk milk was also associated with late autumn and spring (P = 0.01) and was higher in buffalo-cow mixed milk than in pure buffalo milk at the milk collection center level (P < 0.01). The gene stx2 encoding for Shiga toxin-producing (STEC) E. coli was detected in 74% of the milk products. At the middleman level, the prevalence of STEC E. coli was associated with the use of cloths or tissues when drying milk containers (P = 0.01). Salmonella enterica, represented through the presence of invA gene, was most commonly detected (14%) at the milk collection center. The use of plastic milk containers was associated with a higher prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus, represented through htrA genes, at milk product shops (P < 0.05). These results suggest that raw milk consumers in Bangladesh are at risk if they purchase and consume unpasteurized milk.
Injectable Smart Hydrogels for Ophthalmic Applications
Authors: Nejad Zohreh Mousavi , McCarthy Helen O. , Levingstone Tanya J. , Dunne Nicholas J.
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the field of injectable smart hydrogels for ophthalmic applications has gained considerable attention. These remarkable materials have emerged as promising candidates for addressing a broad spectrum of ocular diseases and conditions. The inherent properties of injectable smart hydrogels, including sustained drug delivery, tissue regeneration promotion, and therapeutic enhancement, have fuelled their growing significance in ophthalmology. This book chapter offers an in-depth exploration of the current research landscape, focusing on the latest developments in the design and application of injectable smart hydrogels for ocular purposes. The essential design criteria for these hydrogels are discussed and a comprehensive overview of their versatile applications in treating ophthalmic conditions such as corneal regeneration, ocular drug delivery, vitreous substitutes, and glaucoma treatment is presented. By illuminating the transformative potential of injectable smart hydrogels, this chapter aims to highlight their capacity to revolutionise the field of ophthalmic care.
Injectable Smart Hydrogels for Spinal Cord Regeneration
Authors: Rossi F. , Veglianese P. , Perale G.
Published: July 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious condition that begins with immediate physical damage to the spinal cord and associated regions during an acute traumatic event. The damage of the tissue expands in both intensity and volume in the next subacute phase. At this stage, multiple events complicate the pathologic condition and herein lies the main cause of post-traumatic neural degeneration that ends with the so-called chronic phase. In recent times, different medical treatments addressing different neurodegenerative mechanisms have been proposed but have met with limited success when translated to clinical settings. The main reasons for this are that the pathogenesis of SCI is a continued multifactorial complaint and the treatment of only one factor is not sufficient to check neural degeneration and development of paralysis. Recent advances have led to the development of injectable hydrogels aiming to promote in situ delivery of cells and/or drugs to improve the medical outcome. This chapter aims to provide an overview of regenerative treatments with hydrogels that can be used to ameliorate the SCI condition.
Chemical stabilization strategy for cymoxanil: synthesis and characterization of cocrystals with small organic acids
Authors: Yang Mingzhu , Jiang Zhouyu , Du Cunbin , Zhang Xiaowen , Wang Mingliang
Published: July 2024

Directed enhancement of cymoxanil fungicide chemical stability through a cocrystallization strategy.
Research development of anti-CO poisoning in electrocatalytic methanol oxidation processes: a review
Authors: Wei Zhixun , Yu Shuyan , Li Congju
Published: July 2024

This review examines research advancements in anti-CO poisoning during the electrocatalytic methanol oxidation reaction (MOR).
Rational design of a bifunctional catalyst utilizing Mn-containing layered double oxide for the highly efficient oxidative cleavage of 1,2-diols
Authors: Dai Xuan , Chen Pengfei , Wang Xin , Qian Junfeng , Zhou Weiyou , He Mingyang
Published: July 2024

NiMgMn layered double hydroxide (LDO) has been rationally designed for the efficient oxidative cleavage of 1,2-diols, utilizing molecular oxygen exclusively as the oxidizing agent without the need for additives.
Facile hydrothermal synthesis of a tri-metallic Cu–Mn–Ni oxide-based electrochemical pseudo capacitor
Authors: Rao Komal Ali , Mazhar Muhammad Ehsan , Ahmad Javed
Published: July 2024

This work presents the working principle of a tri-metallic oxide (CMNO)-based electrode for pseudo capacitors.
Identifying active sites of Co3O4 catalysts for C2H2 oxidation using combined computational and experimental methods
Authors: Deng Jianlin , Gao Meng , Wang Meng , Li Yaozhao , Song Weiyu , Wang Lu , Zheng Huiling , Liu Jian
Published: July 2024

Combined computational and experimental studies are carried out to unravel the role of active centers on C2H2 oxidation over Co3O4 catalysts.
Flow-induced fabrication of ZnO nanostructures in pillar-arrayed microchannels
Authors: Xu Ruyi , Li Siyu , Yu Sai-Xi , Liu Yan-Jun , Xie Wenhui , Zhan Qingfeng , Zhao Zhenjie , Li Xin
Published: July 2024

A microfluidic device with microchannels featuring periodically arranged micro-pillars was developed for regulating local flow distribution, which facilitates the growth of zinc oxide nanostructures and enhances the fluorescence biodetection.