bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular transfection using rapid decrease in hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Huang Shudi , Suo Nan Ji , Henderson Tyler R. , Macgregor Robert B. , Henderson Jeffrey T.
Published: February 2024

Of all methods exercised in modern molecular biology, modification of cellular properties through the introduction or removal of nucleic acids is one of the most fundamental. As such, several methods have arisen to promote this process; these include the condensation of nucleic acids with calcium, polyethylenimine or modified lipids, electroporation, viral production, biolistics, and microinjection. An ideal transfection method would be (1) low cost, (2) exhibit high levels of biological safety, (3) offer improved efficacy over existing methods, (4) lack requirements for ongoing consumables, (5) work efficiently at any scale, (6) work efficiently on cells that are difficult to transfect by other methods, and (7) be capable of utilizing the widest array of existing genetic resources to facilitate its utility in research, biotechnical and clinical settings. To address such issues, we describe here Pressure-jump-poration (PJP), a method using rapid depressurization to transfect even difficult to modify primary cell types such as embryonic stem cells. The results demonstrate that PJP can be used to introduce an array of genetic modifiers in a safe, sterile manner. Finally, PJP-induced transfection in primary versus transformed cells reveals a surprising dichotomy between these classes which may provide further insight into the process of cellular transformation.
Determinants of undernutrition among khat chewing and non-khat chewing male adults in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a comparative cross-sectional study
Authors: Hailesellasie Genene , Oumer Abdu , Asfaw Agize
Published: February 2024

Khat chewing is a deep-rooted socio-cultural tradition that affects appetite, gastric emptying, and food intake, ultimately influencing nutritional status. Moreover, there is significant variation in lifestyles and ways of living among khat chewing and non-chewing people. However, there is limited evidence on the disaggregated determinants of undernutrition among khat chewers and non-chewers in Ethiopia. A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted with 253 Khat-chewing and 249 non-chewing male adults in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Weight and height were measured under standard procedure and used to calculate the body mass index (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 indicates undernutrition). Variables with p-values below 0.25 in the bi-variable analysis were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model to identify factors associated with undernutrition and to control confounding respectively. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to declare the presence and the strength of association between the independent and outcome variable. Statistical significance was declared at a p value of 0.05. In this study, a total of 138 (27.5%: 23.6–31.6%) adult males were undernourished; among them, 78 (32.0%) were khat chewers and 60 (23.9%) were non chewers. Christian religion (AOR = 1.49; 1.02–2.30), vegetable consumption (AOR = 1.69; 95% CI 1.12–2.55) and khat chewing (AOR = 1.60; 1.04–2.45) were independent risk factors for undernutrition. However, none of the above factors showed a statistically significant association among non-khat chewer male adults. In conclusion, undernutrition was a public health concern in male adults in the study area. Frequent consumption of fruits, vegetables and family size of the households were the independent predictors of undernutrition. The practical implication of identifying risk factors of undernutrition among chewers and non-chewers could be helpful in depicting the relevant risk factors by exposure category and helping to further refine intervention packages. In addition, focusing on interventions which can increase the availability and accessibility of fruits and vegetables are important to improve the nutritional status of adult male populations.
Differences in gut microbiota between Dutch and South-Asian Surinamese: potential implications for type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Nayman Eric I. , Schwartz Brooke A. , Polmann Michaela , Gumabong Alayna C. , Nieuwdorp Max , Cickovski Trevor , Mathee Kalai
Published: February 2024

Gut microbiota, or the collection of diverse microorganisms in a specific ecological niche, are known to significantly impact human health. Decreased gut microbiota production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) has been implicated in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) disease progression. Most microbiome studies focus on ethnic majorities. This study aims to understand how the microbiome differs between an ethnic majority (the Dutch) and minority (the South-Asian Surinamese (SAS)) group with a lower and higher prevalence of T2DM, respectively. Microbiome data from the Healthy Life in an Urban Setting (HELIUS) cohort were used. Two age- and gender-matched groups were compared: the Dutch (n = 41) and SAS (n = 43). Microbial community compositions were generated via DADA2. Metrics of microbial diversity and similarity between groups were computed. Biomarker analyses were performed to determine discriminating taxa. Bacterial co-occurrence networks were constructed to examine ecological patterns. A tight microbiota cluster was observed in the Dutch women, which overlapped with some of the SAS microbiota. The Dutch gut contained a more interconnected microbial ecology, whereas the SAS network was dispersed, i.e., contained fewer inter-taxonomic correlational relationships. Bacteroides caccae, Butyricicoccus, Alistipes putredinis, Coprococcus comes, Odoribacter splanchnicus, and Lachnospira were enriched in the Dutch gut. Haemophilus, Bifidobacterium, and Anaerostipes hadrus discriminated the SAS gut. All but Lachnospira and certain strains of Haemophilus are known to produce SCFAs. The Dutch gut microbiome was distinguished from the SAS by diverse, differentially abundant SCFA-producing taxa with significant cooperation. The dynamic ecology observed in the Dutch was not detected in the SAS. Among several potential gut microbial biomarkers, Haemophilus parainfluenzae likely best characterizes the ethnic minority group, which is more predisposed to T2DM. The higher prevalence of T2DM in the SAS may be associated with the gut dysbiosis observed.
A novel method for evaluating load restraint assemblies to ensure the safety of railway freight transportation
Authors: Zhang Duo , Wang Su-Mei , Tang Yin-Ying , Ni Yi-Qing , Guo Jing-Wei , Peng Qi-Yuan
Published: February 2024

The violent goods vibration during curve negotiation is a huge threat to the vehicle running safety. Qualified load restraint assemblies that can significantly suppress the cargo vibration are necessary. This study proposes a novel method for evaluating the essential restraint strength, focusing on the relative motion between cargo and wagon. In the beginning, as a comparison, current methods are used to calculate the necessary stiffness of lashings, which are adopted to restrain the cargo vibration on the wagon. Based on the data of the field test, the accuracy of the established wagon-cargo coupled dynamics model is validated. The loaded wagon model negotiates the curve under different running and loading conditions. The simulation results and analysis demonstrate effective strategies for suppressing the vibration of the cargo and reveal the necessary lashing stiffness. The comparison among the results of different evaluation methods shows that the stability of the cargo can be improved by optimizing the lashing stiffness with the method of dynamics simulations. We hope this study will make a positive contribution to the safety of railway freight transportation.
Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for bovine leptospirosis in Egypt
Authors: Selim Abdelfattah , Marzok Mohamed , Gattan Hattan S. , Abdelhady Abdelhamed , Salem Mohamed , Hereba Abdelrahman M.
Published: February 2024

Leptospirosis is caused by pathogenic bacteria of the genus Leptospira and is one of causative agents of reproductive problems leading to negative economic impact on bovine worldwide. The goal of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in cattle in some governorates of Egypt's Nile Delta and assess the risk factors for infection. A total of 410 serum samples were collected from cattle and examined using microscopic agglutination test. The overall seroprevalence was 10.2% and the most prevalent serovars were Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona and Canicola. In addition, the potential risk factors were associated Leptospira spp. infection were age, herd size, history of abortion, presence of dogs and rodent control. Thus, leptospirosis is common in dairy cattle in the Nile Delta and  the presence of rodents in feed and dog-accessible pastures increases the risk of Leptospira spp. infection among animals.
Novel mixed heterovalent (Mo/Co)Ox-zerovalent Cu system as bi-functional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting
Authors: Tartour Ahmed R. , Sanad Moustafa M. S. , El-Hallag Ibrahim S. , Moharram Youssef I.
Published: February 2024

A novel hybrid ternary metallic electrocatalyst of amorphous Mo/Co oxides and crystallized Cu metal was deposited over Ni foam using a one-pot, simple, and scalable solvothermal technique. The chemical structure of the prepared ternary electrocatalyst was systematically characterized and confirmed via XRD, FTIR, EDS, and XPS analysis techniques. FESEM images of (Mo/Co)Ox–Cu@NF display the formation of 3D hierarchical structure with a particle size range of 3–5 µm. The developed (Mo/Co)Ox–Cu@NF ternary electrocatalyst exhibits the maximum activity with 188 mV and 410 mV overpotentials at 50 mA cm−2 for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results for the (Mo/Co)Ox–Cu@NF sample demonstrate the minimum charge transfer resistance (Rct) and maximum constant phase element (CPE) values. A two-electrode cell based on the ternary electrocatalyst just needs a voltage of about 1.86 V at 50 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting (OWS). The electrocatalyst shows satisfactory durability during the OWS for 24 h at 10 mA cm−2 with an increase of only 33 mV in the cell potential.
Effect of drying system, layer thickness and drying temperature on the drying parameters, product quality, energy consumption and cost of the marjoram leaves
Authors: Khater El-Sayed G. , Bahnasawy Adel H. , Abd El-All Mai H. , Mustafa Hassan M. M. , Mousa Ahmed M.
Published: February 2024

The main aim of this work is to study the main factors affecting the quality of the dried product and the energy requirements through optimizing these factors. To achieve that different drying systems (solar, hybrid solar and oven dryings), layers thickness (1, 2 and 3 cm) and drying temperatures (50, 60 and 70 °C) were used. The obtained results indicated that, the accumulated weight loss of marjoram leaves ranged from 73.22 to 76.9%, for all treatments under study. The moisture content of marjoram leaves ranged from 273.39 to 333.17, 258.02 to 333.04 and 269.38 to 324.90% d.b. for hybrid solar, oven and solar drying systems, respectively. The highest value of the drying rate of marjoram leaves (223.73 gwater kg−1 h−1) was obtained when the marjoram dried by oven drying system at 70 °C at 1 cm layer thickness. The highest values of the basil and marjoram oil content (2.91%) was obtained when the marjoram dried under sun drying system. The energy consumption for drying marjoram decreases with increasing drying temperature and layer thickness for hybrid solar and oven drying systems. The cost of dried marjoram dried under hybrid solar drying system was lower than those of oven drying system, the highest cost (13.48 LE kg−1) was obtained at a temperature of 50 °C and a layer thickness of 1 cm.
Quantifying mangrove carbon assimilation rates using UAV imagery
Authors: Blanco-Sacristán Javier , Johansen Kasper , Elías-Lara Mariana , Tu Yu-Hsuan , Duarte Carlos M. , McCabe Matthew F.
Published: February 2024

Mangrove forests are recognized as one of the most effective ecosystems for storing carbon. In drylands, mangroves operate at the extremes of environmental gradients and, in many instances, offer one of the few opportunities for vegetation-based sequestering of carbon. Developing accurate and reproducible methods to map carbon assimilation in mangroves not only serves to inform efforts related to natural capital accounting, but can help to motivate their protection and preservation. Remote sensing offers a means to retrieve numerous vegetation traits, many of which can be related to plant biophysical or biochemical responses. The leaf area index (LAI) is routinely employed as a biophysical indicator of health and condition. Here, we apply a linear regression model to UAV-derived multispectral data to retrieve LAI across three mangrove sites located along the coastline of the Red Sea, with estimates producing an R2 of 0.72 when compared against ground-sampled LiCOR LAI-2200C LAI data. To explore the potential of monitoring carbon assimilation within these mangrove stands, the UAV-derived LAI estimates were combined with field-measured net photosynthesis rates from a LiCOR 6400/XT, providing a first estimate of carbon assimilation in dryland mangrove systems of approximately 3000 ton C km−2 yr−1. Overall, these results advance our understanding of carbon assimilation in dryland mangroves and provide a mechanism to quantify the carbon mitigation potential of mangrove reforestation efforts.
The use of scanning electron microscopy and fixation methods to evaluate the interaction of blood with the surfaces of medical devices
Authors: Nalezinková Martina , Loskot Jan , Myslivcová Fučíková Alena
Published: February 2024

Testing the hemocompatibility of medical devices after their interaction with blood entails the need to evaluate the activation of blood elements and the degree of their coagulation and adhesion to the device surface. One possible way to achieve this is to use scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The aim was to develop a novel SEM-based method to assess the thrombogenic potential of medical devices and their adhesiveness to blood cells. As a part of this task, also find a convenient procedure of efficient and non-destructive sample fixation for SEM while reducing the use of highly toxic substances and shortening the fixation time. A polymeric surgical mesh was exposed to blood so that blood elements adhered to its surface. Such prepared samples were then chemically fixed for a subsequent SEM measurement; a number of fixation procedures were tested to find the optimal one. The fixation results were evaluated from SEM images, and the degree of blood elements’ adhesion was determined from the images using ImageJ software. The best fixation was achieved with the May–Grünwald solution, which is less toxic than chemicals traditionally used. Moreover, manipulation with highly toxic osmium tetroxide can be avoided in the proposed procedure. A convenient methodology for SEM image analysis has been developed too, enabling to quantitatively evaluate the interaction of blood with the surfaces of various medical devices. Our method replaces the subjective assessment of surface coverage with a better-defined procedure, thus offering more precise and reliable results.
Calculation of the total corneal astigmatism using the virtual cross cylinder method on the secondary principal plane of the cornea
Authors: Danjo Yukitaka
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to establish a virtual cross cylinder method to calculate the total corneal astigmatism by combining the anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism on the secondary principal plane of the cornea based on Gaussian optics. The meridian with the least refractive power, namely, the flattest meridian of the virtual cross cylinder of a ± 0.5 × C diopter, is set as the reference meridian, and the power (F) at an angle of φ between an arbitrary meridian and the reference meridian is defined as F(φ) =  − 0.5 × C × cos2φ. The magnitude and axis of the total corneal astigmatism were calculated by applying trigonometric functions and the atan2 function based on the combination of the virtual cross cylinders of the anterior corneal astigmatism and the posterior corneal astigmatism. To verify the performance of the virtual cross cylinder method, a verification experiment with two Jackson cross cylinders and a lensmeter was performed, and the measured and calculated values were compared. The limit of the natural domain of the arctangent function is circumvented by using the atan2 function. The magnitude and axis of the total corneal astigmatism are determined through generalized mathematical expressions. The verification experiment results showed good agreement between the measured and calculated values. Compared to the vector analysis method, the virtual cross cylinder method is mathematically sound and straightforward. A novel technique for calculating total corneal astigmatism, the virtual cross cylinder method, was developed and verified.
A disulfidptosis-related lncRNA signature for predicting prognosis and evaluating the tumor immune microenvironment of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Song Zipei , Cao Xincen , Wang Xiaokun , Li Yuting , Zhang Weiran , Wang Yuheng , Chen Liang
Published: February 2024

As a novel form of regulated cell death (RCD), disulfidptosis offering a significant opportunity in better understanding of tumor pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate the biology functions of tumor cells by engaging with a range of targets. However, the prognostic value of disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs (DRlncRNAs) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. Therefore, our study aimed at establishing a prognostic model for LUAD patients based on DRlncRNAs. RNA-seq data and clinical information were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Subsequently, a prognostic model based on DRlncRNAs was constructed using LASSO and COX regression analysis. Patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups based on their risk scores. Differences between the high-risk and low-risk groups were investigated in terms of overall survival (OS), functional enrichment, tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), somatic mutations, and drug sensitivity. Finally, the role of lncRNA GSEC in LUAD was validated through in vitro experiments. Using the prognostic model consists of 5 DRlncRNAs (AL365181.2, GSEC, AC093673.1, AC012615.1, AL606834.1), the low-risk group exhibited a markedly superior survival in comparison to the high-risk group. The significant differences were observed among patients from different risk groups in OS, immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint expression, immunotherapy response, and mutation landscape. Experimental results from cellular studies demonstrate the knockdown of lncRNA GSEC leading to a significant reduction in the proliferation and migration abilities of LUAD cells. Our prognostic model, constructed using 5 DRlncRNAs, exhibited the capacity to independently predict the survival of LUAD patients, providing the potentially significant assistance in prognosis prediction, and treatment effects optimization. Moreover, our study established a foundation for further research on disulfidptosis in LUAD and proposed new perspectives for the treatment of LUAD.
Exploring prognostic factors and treatment strategies for long-term survival in pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma patients
Authors: Lee Chaejin , Byeon Yukyeng , Kim Gung Ju , Jeon Juhee , Hong Chang Ki , Kim Jeong Hoon , Kim Young-Hoon , Cho Young Hyun , Hong Seok Ho , Chong Sang Joon , Song Sang Woo
Published: February 2024

Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas (PXA) are rare, accounting for < 1% of all astrocytomas. Literature on the clinical course and treatment outcomes of PXAs is limited. The study aimed to determine prognosis and treatment strategies for PXAs. Patients who had PXAs surgery between 2000–2021 were retrospectively analyzed for demographics and radiological characteristics. Initial and salvage treatment outcomes were recorded. Overall, 40 and 9 patients had grade 2 and 3 PXAs; their 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 75.8% and 37.0%, respectively (p = 0.003). Univariate analysis revealed that strong T1 enhancement (p = 0.036), infiltrative tumor margins (p < 0.001), peritumoral edema (p = 0.003), WHO grade (p = 0.005), and gross total resection (p = 0.005) affected the PFS. Multivariate analysis revealed that the WHO grade (p = 0.010) and infiltrative tumor margins (p = 0.008) influenced the PFS. The WHO grade (p = 0.027) and infiltrative tumor margins (p = 0.027) also affected the overall survival (OS). Subgroup analysis for grade 2 PXAs revealed no significant associations between adjuvant radiation therapy and the PFS and OS. This study highlighted the heterogeneous nature of PXAs and its impact on patient prognosis. Infiltrative tumor margins emerged as a key prognostic factor. Our findings have emphasized the prognostic relevance of radiological features and the need for larger studies on comprehensive management.
Mandible mechanical properties and composition of the larval Glossosoma boltoni (Trichoptera, Insecta)
Authors: Krings Wencke , Below Patrick , Gorb Stanislav N.
Published: February 2024

Insect feeding structures, such as mandibles, interact with the ingesta (food or/and substrate) and can be adapted in morphology, composition of material and mechanical properties. The foraging on abrasive ingesta, as on algae covering rocks, is particularly challenging because the mandibles will be prone to wear and structural failure, thus suggesting the presence of mandibular adaptations to accompany this feeding behavior. Adaptations to this are well studied in the mouthparts of molluscs and sea urchins, but for insects there are large gaps in our knowledge. In this study, we investigated the mandibles of a grazing insect, the larvae of the trichopteran Glossosoma boltoni. Using scanning electron microscopy, wear was documented on the mandibles. The highest degree was identified on the medial surface of the sharp mandible tip. Using nanoindentation, the mechanical properties, such as hardness and Young’s modulus, of the medial and lateral mandible cuticles were tested. We found, that the medial cuticle of the tip was significantly softer and more flexible than the lateral one. These findings indicate that a self-sharpening mechanism is present in the mandibles of this species, since the softer medial cuticle is probably abraded faster than the harder lateral one, leading to sharp mandible tips. To investigate the origins of these properties, we visualized the degree of tanning by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The autofluorescence signal related to the mechanical property gradients. The presence of transition and alkaline earth metals by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was also tested. We found Ca, Cl, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, S, Si, and Zn in the cuticle, but the content was very low and did not correlate with the mechanical property values.
Restoring functional TDP-43 oligomers in ALS and laminopathic cellular models through baicalein-induced reconfiguration of TDP-43 aggregates
Authors: Chang Hsiang-Yu , Wang I-Fan
Published: February 2024

A group of misfolded prone-to-aggregate domains in disease-causing proteins has recently been shown to adopt unique conformations that play a role in fundamental biological processes. These processes include the formation of membrane-less sub-organelles, alternative splicing, and gene activation and silencing. The cellular responses are regulated by the conformational switching of prone-to-aggregate domains, independently of changes in RNA or protein expression levels. Given this, targeting the misfolded states of disease-causing proteins to redirect them towards their physiological conformations is emerging as an effective therapeutic strategy for diseases caused by protein misfolding. In our study, we successfully identified baicalein as a potent structure-correcting agent. Our findings demonstrate that baicalein can reconfigure existing TDP-43 aggregates into an oligomeric state both in vitro and in disease cells. This transformation effectively restores the bioactivity of misfolded TDP-43 proteins in cellular models of ALS and premature aging in progeria. Impressively, in progeria cells where defective lamin A interferes with TDP-43-mediated exon skipping, the formation of pathological TDP-43 aggregates is promoted. Baicalein, however, restores the functionality of TDP-43 and mitigates nuclear shape defects in these laminopathic cells. This establishes a connection between lamin A and TDP-43 in the context of aging. Our findings suggest that targeting physiological TDP-43 oligomers could offer a promising therapeutic avenue for treating aging-associated disorders.
Social appearance anxiety among the dark tetrad and self-concealment
Authors: Jin Wenjing , Zhan Tingting , Geng Yaoguo , Shi Yibo , Hu Wanying , Ye Bei
Published: February 2024

This study analyzed the effects of the Dark Tetrad (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, sadism) and self-concealment on social appearance anxiety. Empirical investigations on which personality traits influence social appearance anxiety are yet missing. In this study, a sample of N = 1186 Chinese students performed a questionnaire-based survey assessing different personality facets and social appearance anxiety tendencies. Measures included the Narcissistic Personality Inventory, the Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy Scale, the Machiavellian Personality Scale, the Short Sadistic Impulse Scale, the Self-concealment Scale, and the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale. The results of the multiple regression analysis showed that psychopathy, Machiavellianism, sadism, and self-concealment positively predicted social appearance anxiety and narcissism negatively predicted social appearance anxiety. Machiavellianism, psychopathy, sadism, and self-concealment were positive predictors of social appearance anxiety, whereas narcissism was a negative predictor. These findings provide insight into the complex nature of the Dark Tetrad and their influence on social appearance anxiety.
Oblique distribution patterns and the underlying mechanical model of orebody groups controlled by structures at different scales
Authors: Han Runsheng , Wu Jianbiao , Zhang Yan , Chen Qing , Sun Bangtao
Published: February 2024

The oblique distribution of orebodies is a basic feature of the spatial distribution of orebody groups in hydrothermal deposits, and it is closely related to the shearing effect. However, the oblique distribution patterns of orebody groups controlled by ore-controlling/ore-forming structures at different scales (orebody, ore deposit and ore field scales) and the underlying formation mechanism are unclear but could be used to directly constrain mineral exploration and prospecting breakthroughs in the deep and peripheral areas of ore deposits. This paper uses the northeastern Yunnan Ge-rich Pb–Zn ore concentration area in the Sichuan–Yunnan–Guizhou metallogenic area as an example to analyse and demonstrate the oblique distribution patterns of orebodies (orebody groups) controlled by ore-forming/ore-controlling structures at different scales and the underlying mechanical model based on the Theory and Methods of Ore field Geomechanics. The results indicate that in 3D space, the oblique distributions of orebodies (veins), orebody groups and ore deposits are controlled by the mechanical properties, kinematic characteristics, and tectonic stress fields of ore-forming/ore-controlling fault structures of different sequences during the mineralization period. This study has an important guiding role for ore field-scale exploration deployment, evaluation of deep and peripheral prospecting, and exploration project arrangement, with the aim of helping mining companies increase resource reserves and production.
Machine learning reveals diverse cell death patterns in lung adenocarcinoma prognosis and therapy
Authors: Wang Shun , Wang Ruohuang , Hu Dingtao , Zhang Caoxu , Cao Peng , Huang Jie
Published: February 2024

Cancer cell growth, metastasis, and drug resistance pose significant challenges in the management of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, there is a deficiency in optimal predictive models capable of accurately forecasting patient prognoses and guiding the selection of targeted treatments. Programmed cell death (PCD) pathways play a pivotal role in the development and progression of various cancers, offering potential as prognostic indicators and drug sensitivity markers for LUAD patients. The development and validation of predictive models were conducted by integrating 13 PCD patterns with comprehensive analysis of bulk RNA, single-cell RNA transcriptomics, and pertinent clinicopathological details derived from TCGA-LUAD and six GEO datasets. Utilizing the machine learning algorithms, we identified ten critical differentially expressed genes associated with PCD in LUAD, namely CHEK2, KRT18, RRM2, GAPDH, MMP1, CHRNA5, TMPRSS4, ITGB4, CD79A, and CTLA4. Subsequently, we conducted a programmed cell death index (PCDI) based on these genes across the aforementioned cohorts and integrated this index with relevant clinical features to develop several prognostic nomograms. Furthermore, we observed a significant correlation between the PCDI and immune features in LUAD, including immune cell infiltration and the expression of immune checkpoint molecules. Additionally, we found that patients with a high PCDI score may exhibit resistance to immunotherapy and standard adjuvant chemotherapy regimens; however, they may benefit from other FDA-supported drugs such as docetaxel and dasatinib. In conclusion, the PCDI holds potential as a prognostic signature and can facilitate personalized treatment for LUAD patients.
Multimodal fusion of liquid biopsy and CT enhances differential diagnosis of early-stage lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yanwei , Sun Beibei , Yu Yinghong , Lu Jun , Lou Yuqing , Qian Fangfei , Chen Tianxiang , Zhang Li , Yang Jiancheng , Zhong Hua , Wu Ligang , Han Baohui
Published: February 2024

This research explores the potential of multimodal fusion for the differential diagnosis of early-stage lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) (tumor sizes < 2 cm). It combines liquid biopsy biomarkers, specifically extracellular vesicle long RNA (evlRNA) and the computed tomography (CT) attributes. The fusion model achieves an impressive area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 91.9% for the four-classification of adenocarcinoma, along with a benign-malignant AUC of 94.8% (sensitivity: 89.1%, specificity: 94.3%). These outcomes outperform the diagnostic capabilities of the single-modal models and human experts. A comprehensive SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) is provided to offer deep insights into model predictions. Our findings reveal the complementary interplay between evlRNA and image-based characteristics, underscoring the significance of integrating diverse modalities in diagnosing early-stage LUAD.
Resistant starch intake facilitates weight loss in humans by reshaping the gut microbiota
Authors: Li Huating , Zhang Lei , Li Jun , Wu Qian , Qian Lingling , He Junsheng , Ni Yueqiong , Kovatcheva-Datchary Petia , Yuan Rui , Liu Shuangbo , Shen Li , Zhang Mingliang , Sheng Bin , Li Ping , Kang Kang , Wu Liang , Fang Qichen , Long Xiaoxue , Wang Xiaolin , Li Yanli , Ye Yaorui , Ye Jianping , Bao Yuqian , Zhao Yueliang , Xu Guowang , Liu Xinyu , Panagiotou Gianni , Xu Aimin , Jia Weiping
Published: February 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that modulation of gut microbiota by dietary fibre may offer solutions for metabolic disorders. In a randomized placebo-controlled crossover design trial (ChiCTR-TTRCC-13003333) in 37 participants with overweight or obesity, we test whether resistant starch (RS) as a dietary supplement influences obesity-related outcomes. Here, we show that RS supplementation for 8 weeks can help to achieve weight loss (mean −2.8 kg) and improve insulin resistance in individuals with excess body weight. The benefits of RS are associated with changes in gut microbiota composition. Supplementation with Bifidobacterium adolescentis, a species that is markedly associated with the alleviation of obesity in the study participants, protects male mice from diet-induced obesity. Mechanistically, the RS-induced changes in the gut microbiota alter the bile acid profile, reduce inflammation by restoring the intestinal barrier and inhibit lipid absorption. We demonstrate that RS can facilitate weight loss at least partially through B. adolescentis and that the gut microbiota is essential for the action of RS.
Marine heatwaves and cold spells in the Brazil Overshoot show distinct sea surface temperature patterns depending on the forcing
Authors: Liu Hao , Nie Xunwei , Shi Junqiang , Wei Zexun
Published: February 2024

The Brazil Current Overshoot regions feature the strongest sea surface temperature variations over the global ocean but forecast skill for these extreme variations is limited. Here we investigate the drivers of marine heatwaves and cold spells in this region and find that ocean flows and sea surface heat fluxes are the primary drivers. We also find that sea surface temperature extremes driven by air-sea heat fluxes produce consistent changes in sea surface temperature and related atmospheric variables over a wide horizontal area, whereas ocean flow-driven sea surface temperature extremes exhibit low consistency in air variables and limited consistency in the spatial extent of sea variables across most sea surface temperature extreme events. These differing air-sea characteristics associated with extremes driven by different drivers offer potential avenues for improving prediction skills and advancing the understanding of three-dimensional air-sea impacts associated with extreme events.
Evaluating endogenous viral targets as potential treatment monitoring surrogates for onsite non-potable water reuse
Authors: Nagarkar Maitreyi , Keely Scott P. , Wheaton Emily A. , Rao Varun , Jahne Michael A. , Garland Jay L. , Brinkman Nichole E.
Published: February 2024

Concentrations of viral gene targets in combined wastewater or greywater at four facilities. Three targets may be good candidates for evaluating whether onsite water treatments could reduce viral infection risk by 10−2 infections per person per year.
Nitrogen-containing andrographolide derivatives with multidrug resistance reversal effects in cancer cells
Authors: Ribeiro Joana R. L. , Szemerédi Nikoletta , Gonçalves Bruno M. F. , Spengler Gabriella , Afonso Carlos A. M. , Ferreira Maria-José U.
Published: February 2024

A set of twenty-three new andrographolide derivatives, bearing a nitrogen-containing moiety, is reported. Several derivatives were found to be promising leads for reversing cancer multidrug resistance.
Recent advances in the role of MXene based hybrid architectures as electrocatalysts for water splitting
Authors: Sajid Imran Haider , Iqbal Muhammad Z. , Rizwan Syed
Published: February 2024

The development of non-noble metal based and cost-effective electrocatalysts for water splitting has attracted significant attention due to their potential in production of clean and green hydrogen fuel.
Recent reports on the sensing strategy and the On-site detection of illegal drugs
Authors: Zhao Yang , Gan Yumeng , Chen Jun , Zheng Hui , Chang Ying , Lin Changxu
Published: February 2024

In this review, works on the on-site detection of illegal drugs in recent years are summarised and discussed, most of which were published within the past five years.
Cesium tungsten oxide–carbon nanotube–hydroxypropyl cellulose thermoresponsive display
Authors: Lim Taekyung , Jeong Sang-Mi , Kim Gun Hee , Seo Keumyoung , Seo Hee Sung , Yang Jonguk , Ju Sanghyun
Published: February 2024

Cesium tungsten oxide with strong near-infrared radiation absorbance and carbon nanotubes with high thermal conductivity were optimally combined within hydroxypropyl cellulose to implement the thermoresponsive display.
Flexible thermoelectric CMTs/KCl/gelatin composite for a wearable pressure and temperature sensor
Authors: Wang Hongjie , Guan Jilun , He Mei , Zhu Yanqiu , Cheng Fangchao
Published: February 2024

Design of a CMTs/KCl/gelatin composite by a facile dissolution process using gelatin, CMTs and KCl for a wearable pressure and temperature sensor.
A new synthetic method: pyromellitic dianhydride preparation by Ni–Mo/ZrO2 catalytic oxidation
Authors: Pang Shibo , Feng Baicheng , Xin Huifen , Song Fei , Lv Zhiguo , Jin Yan , Zhang Zhida
Published: February 2024

A new method was designed and optimized for the synthesis of pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA).
Chalcogen alloying mediated electronic structure modulation in ultrathin Nb(SxSe(1−x))2 nanosheets for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Jha Varsha , Hassan Md. Samim , Kumari Ankita , Kumar Shubham , Singh Sahil , Yadav Jyoti , Ghosh Dibyajyoti , Sapra Sameer
Published: February 2024

We report composition tuning of Nb(SxSe(1−x))2 alloy nanosheets (NSs) via colloidal synthesis demonstrating the role of modulating d-electron density and defect engineering in alloy structures for application in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
Chemical looping methanol oxidation using supported vanadium phosphorous oxide carriers for formaldehyde production
Authors: Joshi Anuj , Kumar Sonu , Marx Melissa , Trout Amanda H. , Gun Sudeshna , Mohammad Zain , Khalifa Yehia , Fan Liang-Shih
Published: February 2024

A novel chemical looping scheme for selective oxidation of methanol has been reported, using silica-supported vanadium phosphorous oxide as the oxygen carrier.
Surface reconstruction layer boosting interfacial stability of LiCoO2/Li6PS5Cl in bulk all-solid-state Li batteries
Authors: Zheng Shiliang , Li Zengzhu , He Zhiwe , Zhao Wenguang , Liu Chenyu , Lin Zhan , Zhuo Zengqing , Zhang Bingkai
Published: February 2024

The study introduces a gas–solid interface reduction reaction (GSIRR) for LiCoO2 cathode reconstruction, forming a CoO/Li2CO3 layer that enhances interfacial compatibility and electrochemical performance, especially under high-voltage conditions.
Metal–organic framework thin films: review of their room-temperature synthesis and applications
Authors: Liu Yifan , Zhao Zhongxing , Li Min , Zhao Zhenxia
Published: February 2024

This review presents diverse growth methods employed in the fabrication of room temperature-synthesized MOF films, emphasizing their significant applications across various fields.
Nickel-catalyzed acylation of vinylpyridine with alkylzincs under 1 atm CO
Authors: Huang Wenyi , Wang Chenglong , Zhang Yetong , Qu Jingping , Chen Yifeng
Published: February 2024

A nickel-catalyzed acylation of vinylpyridines with CO at atmospheric pressure is reported, allowing for an expedient approach to synthesize β-acyl pyridine derivatives with high regio- and chemoselectivity.
Phosphorescent acyclic cucurbituril solid supramolecular multicolour delayed fluorescence behaviour
Authors: Huo Man , Song Shuang-Qi , Dai Xian-Yin , Li Fan-Fan , Hu Yu-Yang , Liu Yu
Published: February 2024

Solid supramolecular phosphorescence between glycoluril derivatives and polyvinyl alcohol exhibited a green afterglow with a lifetime of 2.12 s, and a self-crimping configuration endows them with ability to encapsulate guests to achieve TS-FRET.
AI-assisted mass spectrometry imaging with in situ image segmentation for subcellular metabolomics analysis
Authors: Zhao Cong-Lin , Mou Han-Zhang , Pan Jian-Bin , Xing Lei , Mo Yuxiang , Kang Bin , Chen Hong-Yuan , Xu Jing-Juan
Published: February 2024

A unique artificial intelligence-assisted subcellular mass spectrometry imaging strategy to decrypt the distinct action mechanism of isomeric drugs.
Copper shape-templated N-doped carbons: exercising selective surface area control for lithium-ion batteries & beyond
Authors: Lauro Samantha N. , Burrow James N. , Broekhuis Benjamin G. , Papa Philippe E. , Mullins C. Buddie
Published: February 2024

An N-doped carbon synthesis platform is developed which allows for carbon morphology to be changed without altering nitrogen dopant chemistry, allowing chemical and physical properties to be decoupled for study in lithium-ion batteries.
Quinone-amine polymers prepared by simple precipitation polymerization and used as cathodes for aqueous zinc-ion batteries and electrochromic materials
Authors: Liang Jinli , Hou Yanjun , You Yamei , Dong Liyan , Mei Binhua , Niu Haijun
Published: February 2024

Quinone amine polymers with multiple active sites exhibit excellent performance in aqueous zinc ion batteries and as electrochromic materials.
Processing of Plural Marking in Nouns by German-Speaking Children With Normal Hearing and Children With Cochlear Implants: An Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Grandon Bénédicte , Schlechtweg Marcel , Ruigendijk Esther
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Our goal is to understand how the different types of plural marking are understood and processed by children with cochlear implants (CIs): (a) how does salience affect the processing of plural marking, (b) how is this processing affected by the incomplete signal provided by the CIs, and (c) is it linked to individual factors such as chronological age, vocabulary development, and phonological working memory?

Method:

Sixteen children with CIs and 30 age-matched children with normal hearing (NH) participated in an eye-tracking study. Their task was to choose the corresponding picture to an auditorily presented singular or plural noun. Accuracy, reaction time, and gaze fixation were measured and analyzed with mixed-effect models.

Results:

Group differences were found in accuracy but not in reaction time or gaze fixation. Plural processing is qualitatively similar in children with CIs and children with NH, with more difficulties in processing plurals involving stem-vowel changes and less with those involving suffixes. Age effects indicate that processing abilities still evolve between 5 and 11 years, and processing is further linked to lexical development.

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that early implantation seems to be beneficial for the acquisition of plural as indicated by very small between-group differences in processing and comprehension. Processing is furthermore affected by the type of material (i.e., phonetic, phonological, or morphological) used to mark plural and less so by their segmental salience. Our study emphasizes the need to take into account the form of the linguistic material in future investigations at higher levels of processing.
Social Communication and Parent Verbal Responsiveness Across Interaction Contexts in Toddlers on the Autism Spectrum
Authors: Delehanty Abigail , Lorio Ciera M. , Romano Mollie , Brown Jennifer A. , Woods Juliann J. , Wetherby Amy M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Interactions with caregivers during the ordinary activities that occur as families go about their everyday lives are critical to supporting children's acquisition of social communication and language skills. The purpose of this study was to examine child communication and parent verbal responsiveness across interaction contexts in 211 children (
M
age
=
20 months) on the autism spectrum (
n
= 121), with developmental delay (
n
= 46), or with typical development (
n
= 44).

Method:

Families participated in up to eight activities during an hour-long, video-recorded home observation. We tested differences in the strength of associations between diagnostic group and interaction context using linear mixed-effects models, with child rate per minute of communication and proportions of parent follow-in comments and directives as outcome variables. Child communicative functions expressed across contexts were also examined.

Results:

Children across groups communicated at significantly higher rates per minute during book sharing and play with people compared to other interaction contexts. Most child communication was for the function of joint attention during book sharing, for social interaction during play with people, and for behavior regulation during necessary activities such as family chores and meals. On average, parents of children responded using proportionally more follow-in comments during book sharing and play compared to necessary activities, during which parents used more follow-in directives.

Conclusion:

Results provide a glimpse into the dyadic communication that may occur within everyday activities at home, which supports the need for future intervention research and may aid clinicians seeking to identify activities that serve as important contexts for intervention.
Pre-supernova stellar feedback in nearby starburst dwarf galaxies
Authors: Rowland Lucie E. , McLeod Anna F. , Fattahi Azadeh , Belfiore Francesco , Cresci Giovanni , Hunt Leslie , Krumholz Mark , Kumari Nimisha , Marasco Antonino , Venturi Giacomo
Published: February 2024

Context. Stellar feedback in dwarf galaxies remains, to date, poorly explored, yet is crucial to understanding galaxy evolution in the early Universe. In particular, pre-supernova feedback has recently been found to play a significant role in regulating and disrupting star formation in larger spiral galaxies, but it remains uncertain if it also plays this role in dwarfs.

Aims. We study the ionised gas properties and stellar content of individual star-forming regions across three nearby, low-metallicity (12 + log(O/H)∼7.5), dwarf (M* ∼ 40 × 106 M⊙), starburst (log(SFR)∼ − 2.8) galaxies (J0921, KKH046, and Leo P) to investigate how massive stars influence their surroundings and how this influence changes as a function of environment.

Methods. We extracted integrated spectra of 30 HII regions from archival VLT/MUSE integral field spectroscopic observations of these three dwarf starburst galaxies. We fitted the HII regions’ main emission lines with Gaussian profiles to derive their oxygen abundances, electron densities, and luminosities, and we used the Stochastically Ligthing Up Galaxies (SLUG) code to derive the stellar mass, age, and bolometric luminosity of the stellar populations driving the HII regions. We quantified two pre-supernova stellar feedback mechanisms, namely the direct radiation pressure and photoionisation feedback, and explored how feedback strength varies with HII region properties.

Results. Our findings suggest that stellar feedback has less of an impact on evolved regions, with both the pressure of the ionised gas and the direct radiation pressure decreasing as a function of HII region size (i.e. the evolutionary stage). We find that these stellar feedback mechanisms are also dependent on the metallicity of the HII regions. These findings extend results from stellar feedback studies of more massive star-forming galaxies to the low-mass, low-metallicity regime. In addition, we conclude that the use of stochastic stellar population models significantly affects the relationships found between feedback-related pressure terms and HII region properties, and in particular that non-stochastic models can severely underestimate the bolometric luminosity of low-mass stellar populations.
Energy spectra of energetic neutral hydrogen backscattered and sputtered from the lunar regolith by the solar wind
Authors: Wieser M. , Williamson H. , Wieser G. Stenberg , Barabash S. , Zhang A. , Wang C. , Wang W.
Published: February 2024

Context. The solar wind impinging on the lunar surface results in the emission of energetic neutral atoms. This particle population is one of the sources of the lunar exosphere.

Aims. We present a semi-empirical model to describe the energy spectra of the neutral emitted atoms.

Methods. We used data from the Advanced Small Analyzer for Neutrals (ASAN) on board the Yutu-2 rover of the Chang’E-4 mission to calculate high-resolution average energy spectra of the energetic neutral hydrogen flux from the surface. We then constructed a semi-empirical model to describe these spectra.

Results. Excellent agreement between the model and the observed energetic neutral hydrogen data was achieved. The model is also suitable for describing heavier neutral species emitted from the surface.

Conclusions. A semi-analytical model describing the energy spectrum of energetic neutral atoms emitted from the lunar surface has been developed and validated by data obtained from the lunar surface.