bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Evolutionary Shaking‐Forecast‐Based Earthquake Early Warning Method
Authors: Zollo Aldo , Colombelli Simona , Caruso Alessandro , Elia Luca
Published: April 2023

Here we propose a methodology for Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) able to issue the alert based on the real‐time estimation of the epicentral area where a peak ground Intensity measure is expected to exceed a user‐set ground shaking level. The method provides in output a P‐wave‐based, time‐evolutive “early” shake map. It combines the peak ground velocity predictions available from the observed P‐wave amplitudes and from the region‐specific ground motion prediction equation, using progressively updated estimates of earthquake location and magnitude. The P‐wave displacement, velocity and acceleration amplitudes are jointly measured on a progressively expanded P‐wave time window while the earthquake location and magnitude are evaluated using the first P‐arrival time and displacement amplitudes at near source stations. A retrospective analysis of the 2016, Mw 6.5 Central Italy earthquake records shows that depending on the network density and spatial source coverage, the method naturally accounts for effects related to the earthquake rupture directivity and spatial variability of strong ground motion related to crustal wave propagation and site amplification. Within 1.5 s from the first alert (5.15 s after the origin time), the simulated performance of the system in predicting the event ground shaking is very high: in the 40 km‐radius area that suffered an Intensity MCS VIII–IX, 41 over 42 strong‐motion instrumented sites would have been successfully alerted, with only one false alarm. Even considering the calculated blind‐zone of 15 km radius, a 15–55 km wide annular area would have received the alert 2–14.5 s before the occurrence of the strong ground shaking. The proposed EEW method evolves with time in a way that it minimizes the missed alarms while increasing successful alarms and to a lesser extent false alarms, so it is necessary for the end‐user to accept these possibilities and account for them in a probabilistic decision scheme depending on the specific safety actuation measure to be undertaken in real‐time.
Momentum Flux and Vertical Wind Power Spectral Characteristics in the Troposphere and Lower Stratosphere Over Andøya, Norway as Observed by MAARSY
Authors: Ghosh Priyanka , Renkwitz Toralf , Latteck Ralph , Avsarkisov Victor , Chau Jorge L.
Published: April 2023

We used the tropospheric and lower stratospheric 3D winds for four consecutive years (2017–2020) to study the momentum flux (MF) and vertical wind power spectra (VWP) over Andøya, Norway (69.30°N, 16.04°E) using the Middle Atmosphere Alomar Radar System. The spectra range from 3.5 days−1 > f > 30 min−1, which are categorized in terms of observed/ground‐based frequency (as the local inertial period is 13 h over Andøya), height ranges, and seasons. Our results indicate for the first time that (a) both the zonal and meridional MF display peaks around the inertial period (13 h) in the troposphere (1.80–12.00 km) during all seasons (with some exceptions), while VWP exhibits such features in the whole height range (1.80–18.00 km), (b) the minimum variability in MF, VWP, and kinetic energy is observed during summer, and (c) both the MF and VWP demonstrate height variation with maximum deviations below the tropopause.
Captured QBO‐MJO Connection in a Subseasonal Prediction System
Authors: Huang Kai , Richter Jadwiga H. , Pegion Kathleen V.
Published: April 2023

The quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO) impacts the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) activity with a stronger MJO in QBO easterly (QBOE) than QBO westerly (QBOW) winters. However, this relationship is poorly represented in the current generation climate models. For the first time, this paper applies a stratospheric zonal‐mean nudging in a subseasonal prediction system to capture it. Two strong MJO cases in a QBO‐neutral winter are investigated. The QBO temperature and zonal wind anomalies are added separately as well as together to the stratosphere using nudging in MJO case hindcast. Only by nudging the QBO temperature anomalies while leaving the zonal wind free, can the prediction system capture the observed QBO‐MJO connection. The tropopause instability is found positively correlated to the MJO amplitude, but it cannot fully explain the captured connection. The free‐evolving zonal wind anomalies in the stratosphere due to the nudged QBO temperature are crucial for the captured connection.
Gravity Waves Emitted From Kelvin‐Helmholtz Instabilities
Authors: Dong Wenjun , Fritts David C. , Liu Alan Z. , Lund Thomas S. , Liu Han‐Li
Published: April 2023

Fritts, Wang, Lund, and Thorpe (2022, https://doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2021.1085) and Fritts, Wang, Thorpe, and Lund (2022, https://doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2021.1086) described a 3‐dimensional direct numerical simulation of interacting Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability (KHI) billows and resulting tube and knot (T&K) dynamics that arise at a stratified shear layer defined by an idealized, large‐amplitude inertia‐gravity wave. Using similar initial conditions, we performed a high‐resolution compressible simulation to explore the emission of GWs by these dynamics. The simulation confirms that such shear can induce strong KHI with large horizontal scales and billow depths that readily emit GWs having high frequencies, small horizontal wavelengths, and large vertical group velocities. The density‐weighted amplitudes of GWs reveal “fishbone” structures in vertical cross sections above and below the KHI source. Our results reveal that KHI, and their associated T&K dynamics, may be an important additional source of high‐frequency, small‐scale GWs at higher altitudes.
Time‐Dependent Inversion of Energetic Electron Precipitation Spectra From Ground‐Based Incoherent Scatter Radar Measurements
Authors: Juarez Madera Diana , Marshall Robert A. , Elschot Sigrid , Kaeppler Stephen , Reyes Pablo , Varney Roger H. , Crew Alexander B.
Published: April 2023

In the D‐region, the ionization rate cannot be detected directly with any known measurement technique, therefore it must be estimated. Starting from space‐based measurements of precipitating particle flux, we estimate the ionization rate in the atmosphere using the Electron Precipitation Monte Carlo transport method. This ionization rate is used to calculate the expected electron density in the D‐region with the Glukhov‐Pasko‐Inan five species (GPI5) atmospheric chemistry model. We then compare the simulated electron density with that measured by the Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar (PFISR). From ground‐based radar measurements of electron density enhancements due to sub‐relativistic and relativistic electron precipitation, we present a method to extract the ionization rate altitude profiles using inverse theory. We use this estimation of ionization rate to find the energy distribution of the precipitating particles. With this inverse method, we are able to link ground measurements of electron density to the precipitating flux in a time dependent manner and with uncertainty in the inverted parameters. The method was tested on synthetic data and applied to specific PFISR data sets. The method is able to retrieve the ionization rate altitude profiles that, when forward modeled, return the expected electron densities within ∼7% error as compared to the PFISR data. For the case presented here, the arbitrary energy distribution inversion results are comparable in magnitude and shape to those presented in Turunen et al. (2016, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016jd025015) for the inversion of a single event of pulsating aurora observed by EISCAT.
Redefining “Glacial Pace”
Authors: Benningfield Damond
Published: April 2023

As Earth’s climate warms, glaciers and ice sheets are retreating, cracking, and adding to sea level rise at record speeds.
The Fast and the Curious
Authors: Micalizio Caryl-Sue
Published: April 2023

Scientists get up to speed on phenomena ranging from fast moving atmospheric plasmas to a quickening glacial pace on Earth.
Ground Surface Temperature History Since the Last Glacial Maximum in Northeast Asia: Reconstructions From the Borehole Geotherms of the International Continental Scientific Drilling Program
Authors: Jiang Guangzheng , Tian Yuntao , Lv Qingtian , Sandiford Mike , Shi Yizuo , Zou Changchun , Ma Feng , Deng Chenglong , He Lijuan , Hu Shengbiao
Published: April 2023

Past ground surface temperature (GST), one of the important aspects of paleoclimate reconstructions, can be inverted from borehole temperature measurements. Here, we report continuous 6,100‐m temperature logs in the International Continental Scientific Drilling Program SK‐2e. We inverted the past GST changes from upper borehole temperature logging (<600 m). Below this depth, localized fluid flow masks the paleoclimate record. Inversions yield an approximately 2 K GST rise since 0.1–0.6 Kyr BP and an approximately 10 K rise since 20 Kyr BP. Assuming a ±5 K influence from the deep groundwater flow, the inverted temperature rise has varied between 8 and 12 K since 20 Kyr BP, which is consistent with previous reports since the Last Glacial Maximum. Our results emphasize the potential of borehole heat‐flow profiles as a record of climate changes and the importance of climate correction for heat‐flow determinations.
Thank You to Our 2022 Reviewers
Authors: Schildgen Taylor , Aitchison Jonathan C. , Jolivet Laurent , Rusmore Margi
Published: April 2023

We the editors of Tectonics wish to express our sincere thanks to those of you who reviewed manuscripts for us in 2022. Science advances through open communication within the scientific community and trust in the integrity of scientific publications. Peer review is essential to scientific publication, helping to ensure that published work maintains the highest degree of rigor and integrity, is well communicated, accurately documented, appropriately placed in the context of prior work, and effectively archived for future usage. Considering our aim to ensure that all published work complies with FAIR data guidelines, we particularly appreciate the time reviewers have also spent on helping to improve data presentation and their suggestions for the best ways to ensure data reusability in the future. The 150 papers published in Tectonics in 2022 benefitted from the careful scrutiny and constructive criticism drawn from the expertise of 508 volunteer reviewers, who provided a total of 719 reviews. We thank you for helping Tectonics produce the high‐quality output that has helped us maintain a prominent position in scientific publishing for decades, and for the spirit of teamwork that makes the peer review process an asset in our community.
Transformation and survival in marginal zone lymphoma: a Finnish nationwide population-based study
Authors: Kalashnikov Ilja , Tanskanen Tomas , Viisanen Leevi , Malila Nea , Jyrkkiö Sirkku , Leppä Sirpa
Published: April 2023

Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) is an indolent B-cell malignancy with heterogeneous anatomical and clinical presentation. While MZLs are generally associated with long survival, some patients experience histological transformation to aggressive large B-cell lymphoma. Population-based long-term data on the transformation of MZL is limited. We conducted a nationwide population-based study to estimate the risk of transformation and relative survival in patients diagnosed with MZL in Finland from 1995–2018. We identified a total of 1454 patients with MZL from the Finnish Cancer Registry (FCR). The cumulative incidence of transformation was 4.7% (95% CI, 3.6−6.2) at 10 years. The highest incidence of transformation was observed in the patients with splenic MZL (14.0%; 95% CI, 8.6−22.7). The transformation was associated with a substantially increased risk of death (HR, 5.18; 95% CI, 3.58–7.50). Ten-year relative survival was 79% (95% CI, 73‒83%). Transformation, nodal MZL subtype, and older age at diagnosis were associated with increased excess mortality, whereas patients diagnosed at a later calendar period had a lower excess risk of death. We conclude that transformation resulted in a substantially increased mortality irrespective of MZL subtype compared with the patients without transformation. Our results also suggest a reduction in excess mortality in recent years.
Early life nutrition affects the molecular ontogeny of testicular development in the young bull calf
Authors: Coen Stephen , Keogh Kate , Lonergan Pat , Fair Sean , Kenny David A.
Published: April 2023

Enhanced early life nutrition accelerates sexual development in the bull calf through neuroendocrine-signalling mediated via the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis. Our aim was to assess the impact of contrasting feeding regimes in bull calves during the first 12 weeks of life on the testes transcriptome and proteome. Holstein–Friesian bull calves were offered either a high (HI) or moderate (MOD) plane of nutrition, designed to support target growth rates of 1.0 and 0.5 kg/day, respectively. At 12 weeks of age all calves were euthanized, testicular parenchyma sampled, and global transcriptome (miRNAseq and mRNAseq) and proteome analyses undertaken. Bioinformatic analyses revealed 7 differentially expressed (DE) miRNA and 20 DE mRNA. There were no differentially abundant proteins between the two dietary groups. Integration of omics results highlighted a potential role for the cadherin gene,CDH13, in earlier reproductive development. Furthermore, co-regulatory network analysis of the proteomic data revealed CDH13 as a hub protein within a network enriched for processes related to insulin, IGF-1, androgen and Sertoli cell junction signalling pathways as well as cholesterol biosynthesis. Overall, results highlight a potential role for CDH13 in mediating earlier reproductive development as a consequence of enhanced early life nutrition in the bull calf.
Global conservation prioritization for the Orchidaceae
Authors: Vitt Pati , Taylor Amanda , Rakosy Demetra , Kreft Holger , Meyer Abby , Weigelt Patrick , Knight Tiffany M.
Published: April 2023

Quantitative assessments of endemism, evolutionary distinctiveness and extinction threat underpin global conservation prioritization for well-studied taxa, such as birds, mammals, and amphibians. However, such information is unavailable for most of the world’s taxa. This is the case for the Orchidaceae, a hyperdiverse and cosmopolitan family with incomplete phylogenetic and threat information. To define conservation priorities, we present a framework based on phylogenetic and taxonomic measures of distinctiveness and rarity based on the number of regions and the area of occupancy. For 25,434 orchid species with distribution data (89.3% of the Orchidaceae), we identify the Neotropics as hotspots for richness, New Guinea as a hotspot for evolutionary distinctiveness, and several islands that contain many rare and distinct species. Orchids have a similar proportion of monotypic genera as other Angiosperms, however, more taxonomically distinct orchid species are found in a single region. We identify 278 species in need of immediate conservation actions and find that more than 70% of these do not currently have an IUCN conservation assessment and are not protected in ex-situ collections at Botanical Gardens. Our study highlights locations and orchid species in urgent need of conservation and demonstrates a framework that can be applied to other data-deficient taxa.
Natural aging and Alzheimer’s disease pathology increase susceptibility to focused ultrasound-induced blood–brain barrier opening
Authors: Noel R. L. , Batts A. J. , Ji R. , Pouliopoulos A. N. , Bae S. , Kline-Schoder A. R. , Konofagou E. E.
Published: April 2023

Focused Ultrasound (FUS) paired with systemically-injected microbubbles (μB) is capable of transiently opening the blood–brain barrier (BBBO) for noninvasive and targeted drug delivery to the brain. FUS-BBBO is also capable of modulating the neuroimmune system, further qualifying its therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Natural aging and AD impose significant strain on the brain and particularly the BBB, modifying its structure and subsequently, its functionality. The emerging focus on treating neurodegenerative diseases with FUS-BBBO necessitates an investigation into the extent that age and AD affect the BBB’s response to FUS. FUS-BBBO was performed with a 1.5-MHz, geometrically focused transducer operated at 450 kPa and paired with a bolus microbubble injection of 8 × 108 μB/mL. Here we quantify the BBBO, BBB closing (BBBC) timeline, and BBB permeability (BBBP) following FUS-BBBO in male mice with and without AD pathology, aged 10 weeks, one year, or two years. The data presented herein indicates that natural aging and AD pathology may increase initial BBBO volume by up to 34.4% and 40.7% respectively, extend BBBC timeline by up to 1.3 and 1.5 days respectively, and increase BBBP as measured by average Ktrans values up to 80% and 86.1% respectively in male mice. This characterization of the BBB response to FUS-BBBO with age and AD further clarifies the nature and extent of the functional impact of these factors and may offer new considerations for planning FUS-BBBO interventions in aged and AD populations.
A spatial–temporal graph deep learning model for urban flood nowcasting leveraging heterogeneous community features
Authors: Farahmand Hamed , Xu Yuanchang , Mostafavi Ali
Published: April 2023

Flood nowcasting refers to near-future prediction of flood status as an extreme weather event unfolds to enhance situational awareness. The objective of this study was to adopt and test a novel structured deep-learning model for urban flood nowcasting by integrating physics-based and human-sensed features. We present a new computational modeling framework including an attention-based spatial–temporal graph convolution network (ASTGCN) model and different streams of data that are collected in real-time, preprocessed, and fed into the model to consider spatial and temporal information and dependencies that improve flood nowcasting. The novelty of the computational modeling framework is threefold: first, the model is capable of considering spatial and temporal dependencies in inundation propagation thanks to the spatial and temporal graph convolutional modules; second, it enables capturing the influence of heterogeneous temporal data streams that can signal flooding status, including physics-based features (e.g., rainfall intensity and water elevation) and human-sensed data (e.g., residents’ flood reports and fluctuations of human activity) on flood nowcasting. Third, its attention mechanism enables the model to direct its focus to the most influential features that vary dynamically and influence the flood nowcasting. We show the application of the modeling framework in the context of Harris County, Texas, as the study area and 2017 Hurricane Harvey as the flood event. Three categories of features are used for nowcasting the extent of flood inundation in different census tracts: (i) static features that capture spatial characteristics of various locations and influence their flood status similarity, (ii) physics-based dynamic features that capture changes in hydrodynamic variables, and (iii) heterogeneous human-sensed dynamic features that capture various aspects of residents’ activities that can provide information regarding flood status. Results indicate that the ASTGCN model provides superior performance for nowcasting of urban flood inundation at the census-tract level, with precision 0.808 and recall 0.891, which shows the model performs better compared with other state-of-the-art models. Moreover, ASTGCN model performance improves when heterogeneous dynamic features are added into the model that solely relies on physics-based features, which demonstrates the promise of using heterogenous human-sensed data for flood nowcasting. Given the results of the comparisons of the models, the proposed modeling framework has the potential to be more investigated when more data of historical events are available in order to develop a predictive tool to provide community responders with an enhanced prediction of the flood inundation during urban flood.
Integrating renewable energy devices with streetscape elements to electrify the Egyptian roads
Authors: Moussa Rania Rushdy , Gurguis Marianne Nabil
Published: April 2023

The high percentage of carbon emissions, which leads to various environmental problems such as air pollution and global warming, is one of the critical issues resulting from the growth of cities. International agreements are being established to prevent these negative effects. Non-renewable resources are also being depleted and may become extinct in future generations. Due to the extensive use of fossil fuels by automobiles, data show that the transportation sector is responsible for roughly a quarter of worldwide carbon emissions. On the other hand, in developing nations, energy is scarce in many neighborhoods and districts because the governments are unable to meet the community's need for power supply. This research aims to work on techniques that will reduce the carbon emissions produced by roadways while also building environmentally friendly neighborhoods by electrifying the roads using (RE). A novel component called "Energy-Road Scape" (ERS) elements will be used to demonstrate how to generate (RE) and, hence, reduce carbon emissions. This element is the result of integrating streetscape elements with (RE). This research presents a database for ERS elements and properties as a tool for architects and urban designers to design ERS elements instead of utilizing regular streetscape elements.
Behaviour of mesopredatory coral reef fishes in response to threats from sharks and humans
Authors: Asunsolo-Rivera A. , Lester E. , Langlois T. , Vaughan B. , McCormick M. I. , Simpson S. D. , Meekan M. G.
Published: April 2023

Both sharks and humans present a potentially lethal threat to mesopredatory fishes in coral reef systems, with implications for both population dynamics and the role of mesopredatory fishes in reef ecosystems. This study quantifies the antipredator behaviours mesopredatory fishes exhibit towards the presence of large coral reef carnivores and compares these behavioural responses to those elicited by the presence of snorkelers. Here, we used snorkelers and animated life-size models of the blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) to simulate potential predatory threats to mesopredatory reef fishes (lethrinids, lutjanids, haemulids and serranids). The responses of these reef fishes to the models and the snorkelers were compared to those generated by three non-threatening controls (life-size models of a green turtle [Chelonia mydas], a PVC-pipe [an object control] and a Perspex shape [a second object control]). A Remote Underwater Stereo-Video System (Stereo-RUV) recorded the approach of the different treatments and controls and allowed accurate measurement of Flight Initiation Distance (FID) and categorization of the type of flight response by fishes. We found that mesopredatory reef fishes had greater FIDs in response to the approach of threatening models (1402 ± 402–1533 ± 171 mm; mean ± SE) compared to the controls (706 ± 151–896 ± 8963 mm). There was no significant difference in FID of mesopredatory fishes between the shark model and the snorkeler, suggesting that these treatments provoked similar levels of predator avoidance behaviour. This has implications for researchers monitoring behaviour in situ or using underwater census as a technique to estimate the abundance of reef fishes. Our study suggests that, irrespective of the degree to which sharks actually consume these mesopredatory reef fishes, they still elicit a predictable and consistent antipredator response that has the potential to create risk effects.
Tailoring the resonant modes in liquid crystal based all-dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Sakhare Pratiksha A. , Atmakuri Madhunika , Dontabhaktuni Jayasri
Published: April 2023

High refractive index dielectic metasurfaces are being increasingly studied for their novel light-matter interactions such as Huygen’s lens, absolute transmission and complete absorption. Liquid crystal is a versatile medium with high dielectric anisotropy and hence interaction of light with the dielectric metasurfaces immersed in liquid crystal medium show complex behaviour compared to isotropic media. Most of the investigations on liquid crystal based electromagnetic response of dielectric metasurfaces focus on tunability of resonant frequencies and switching between the resonant states as a function of external stimuli such as electric field, temperature, etc. In the current work we present a detailed numerical investigation based on studies of scattering response, near-field and far-field radiation profiles of cubic Tellurium metasurfaces as a function of liquid crystal orientations in infrared frequencies. We show that the near-field and far-field radiation profiles of primary resonant modes—electric dipoles and magnetic dipoles reorient as a function of liquid crystal orientations. In particular, we study the effect of liquid crystal orientations on novel non-radiative states called anapoles. It is observed that liquid crystal orientations effect the excitation and orientation of anapole states within the Tellurium structures. This paves way for design of an electrically-driven switch between non-radiative and radiative states. Further, controlling the near-field and far-field radiation profiles opens up possibilities in designing liquid crystal based tunable multi-functional metasurfaces which can change the directionality of incident light.
A new method for mutation inducing in rice by using DC electrophoresis bath and its mutagenic effects
Authors: Zou Minmin , Tong Sun , Zou Ting , Wang Xinyi , Wu Linxuan , Wang Jiafeng , Guo Tao , Xiao Wuming , Wang Hui , Huang Ming
Published: April 2023

Mutation breeding is a significant means of increasing breeding efficiency and accelerating breeding process. In present study, we explored a new method for mutations inducing in rice (Oryza sativa L.) by using direct current electrophoresis bath (DCEB). The results showed that 20 mM NaCl solution is the optimal buffer, and the mortality of rice seeds followed an upward trend with increasing voltage and processing time of DCEB. By exploring the mutagenic effects of γ-irradiation and DCEB on seed vigor and physiological damages, we found that the physiological damages induced by DCEB on seed vigor were significant compared with that by γ-irradiation. We screened two mutants with low filled grain percentage and one mutant with abnormal hull from the M2 generations. These three mutants were confirmed to be authentic mutants based on 48 SSR markers followed by the protocol NY/T 1433–2014. Whole-genome resequencing detected a total of 503 and 537 polymorphisms in the two mutants, respectively, and the DCEB mutagenesis induced mainly InDel variants, while the exon region of mutant genes occupied a large proportion, especially the SNP variants, which occupied about 20% of the mutation sites in the exon region.
Forecasting COVID-19 spreading through an ensemble of classical and machine learning models: Spain’s case study
Authors: Heredia Cacha Ignacio , Sáinz-Pardo Díaz Judith , Castrillo María , López García Álvaro
Published: April 2023

In this work the applicability of an ensemble of population and machine learning models to predict the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain is evaluated, relying solely on public datasets. Firstly, using only incidence data, we trained machine learning models and adjusted classical ODE-based population models, especially suited to capture long term trends. As a novel approach, we then made an ensemble of these two families of models in order to obtain a more robust and accurate prediction. We then proceed to improve machine learning models by adding more input features: vaccination, human mobility and weather conditions. However, these improvements did not translate to the overall ensemble, as the different model families had also different prediction patterns. Additionally, machine learning models degraded when new COVID variants appeared after training. We finally used Shapley Additive Explanation values to discern the relative importance of the different input features for the machine learning models’ predictions. The conclusion of this work is that the ensemble of machine learning models and population models can be a promising alternative to SEIR-like compartmental models, especially given that the former do not need data from recovered patients, which are hard to collect and generally unavailable.
Predictive validity of the prognosis on admission aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage scale for the outcome of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh , Vu Luu Dang , Mai Ton Duy , Dao Co Xuan , Ngo Hung Manh , Hoang Hai Bui , Do Son Ngoc , Nguyen Hao The , Pham Dung Thi , Nguyen My Ha , Nguyen Duong Ngoc , Vuong Hien Thi Thu , Vu Hung Dinh , Nguyen Dong Duc , Nguyen Linh Quoc , Dao Phuong Viet , Vu Thanh Dang , Nguyen Dung Tien , Tran Tuan Anh , Pham Trang Quynh , Van Nguyen Chi , Nguyen Anh Dat , Luong Chinh Quoc
Published: April 2023

This multicentre prospective cohort study aimed to compare the accuracy of the PAASH, WFNS, and Hunt and Hess (H&H) scales in predicting the outcomes of adult patients with aneurysmal SAH presented to three central hospitals in Hanoi, Vietnam, from August 2019 to June 2021. Of 415 eligible patients, 32.0% had a 90-day poor outcome, defined as an mRS score of 4 (moderately severe disability) to 6 (death). The PAASH, WFNS and H&H scales all have good discriminatory abilities for predicting the 90-day poor outcome. There were significant differences in the 90-day mean mRS scores between grades I and II (p = 0.001) and grades II and III (p = 0.001) of the PAASH scale, between grades IV and V (p = 0.026) of the WFNS scale, and between grades IV and V (p < 0.001) of the H&H scale. In contrast to a WFNS grade of IV–V and an H&H grade of IV–V, a PAASH grade of III–V was an independent predictor of the 90-day poor outcome. Because of the more clearly significant difference between the outcomes of the adjacent grades and the more strong effect size for predicting poor outcomes, the PAASH scale was preferable to the WFNS and H&H scales.
Lack of accessibility and clarity in regulations concerning dog access to protected areas lowers public awareness
Authors: Zamora-Nasca Lucía B. , Lambertucci Sergio A.
Published: April 2023

While natural protected areas are conceived for nature conservation, humans and their activities must also be considered. Conflict between the public and managers of protected areas can be minimized by regulations that clearly communicate which activities are allowed. Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) affect threatened species and impact numerous protected areas. In this study we evaluate: (1) the accessibility and clarity of regulations regarding dog access to protected areas in Argentina, (2) the public’s knowledge of these regulations, (3) the public’s expectations of the regulations (4) which institutions people consider should act when dog aggression occurs, and (5) measures suggested by people when dog aggression occurs. Poor accessibility and clarity of regulations were associated with poor public knowledge of them; there was also an association between visited protected areas that did not mention regulations and respondents who reported not knowing whether dogs were allowed or thinking dogs were allowed. In general, the respondents supported measures to regulate dog access to protected areas and the control of problematic dogs. We discuss several aspects that lead to a lack of clarity on dog regulations in protected areas and suggest approaches that could be used to overcome this conservation problem.
Spectral cardiac CT in acute stroke patients
Authors: Larsen Naomi , Austein Friederike , Klintz Tristan , Campbell Graeme , Sedaghat Sam , Aludin Schekeb , Schunk Domagoj , Both Marcus , Jansen Olav , Langguth Patrick
Published: April 2023

Cardiac CT obtained in acute ischemic stroke patients can facilitate timely detection of cardiac sources of embolism and guide secondary prevention strategies. Spectral CT exploiting the simultaneous acquisition of separate higher-energy and lower-energy photon spectrum datasets has the potential to improve contrast between thrombi and cardiac structures. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of spectral cardiac CT compared to conventional CT for the detection of cardiac thrombi in acute stroke patients. Patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing spectral cardiac CT were retrospectively included. Conventional CT images, virtual 55 keV monoenergetic (monoE55), z-effective (zeff), and iodine density images were evaluated for the presence of thrombi. Diagnostic certainty was rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Contrast ratios were calculated for all reconstructions. 63 patients with 20 thrombi were included. Four thrombi were missed on conventional images but detected on spectral reconstructions. MonoE55 achieved the highest scores for diagnostic certainty. Contrast ratios were highest on iodine density images, followed by monoE55, conventional and zeff (p < 0.005). Spectral cardiac CT adds diagnostic benefit for the detection of intra-cardiac thrombi in acute ischemic stroke patients compared to conventional CT.
Sport-related differences in QT dispersion and echocardiographic parameters in male athletes
Authors: Stoičkov Viktor , Radovanović Dragan , Deljanin-Ilić Marina , Perišić Zoran , Pavlović Milan , Tasić Ivan , Stoičkov Ivan , Golubović Mlađan , Scanlan Aaron T. , Jakovljević Vladimir , Stojanović Emilija
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to compare QT dispersion (QTd) and echocardiographic parameters in male athletes competing across different sports (long-distance running, volleyball, football, powerlifting, and bodybuilding) and a control population. Significant moderate-strong differences (p < 0.001, $${\eta }_{p}^{2}$$

η

p

2

= 0.52–0.71) were found in corrected QTd, intraventricular septal wall thickness (ISWT), posterior wall thickness (PWT), relative wall thickness (RWT) and LV (left ventricular) index between groups. Corrected QTd, ISWT, PWT, and RWT were significantly (p < 0.001) higher in powerlifters and bodybuilders compared to other athlete groups and controls. While all athlete groups displayed a significantly higher LV index (p < 0.05) compared to controls, corrected QTd was significantly lower (p < 0.001) only in long-distance runners, volleyball athletes, and football athletes compared to controls. Normal or eccentric LV hypertrophy (LVH) was observed in most long-distance runners (58% and 33%), volleyball athletes (50% and 50%), and football athletes (56% and 41%). In contrast, concentric LVH was observed in most powerlifters (58%) and bodybuilders (54%). Advanced LVH, predominantly concentric in nature, appears to be accompanied with increased QTd in powerlifters and bodybuilders. On the other hand, runners, volleyball athletes, and football athletes experienced LVH toward the upper threshold of the normal reference range alongside reduced QTd compared to other groups.
Reversible electric-field-induced phase transition in Ca-modified NaNbO3 perovskites for energy storage applications
Authors: Aso Seiyu , Matsuo Hiroki , Noguchi Yuji
Published: April 2023

Sodium niobate (NaNbO3) is a potential material for lead-free dielectric ceramic capacitors for energy storage applications because of its antipolar ordering. In principle, a reversible phase transition between antiferroelectric (AFE) and ferroelectric (FE) phases can be induced by an application of electric field (E) and provides a large recoverable energy density. However, an irreversible phase transition from the AFE to the FE phase usually takes place and an AFE-derived polarization feature, a double polarization (P)-E hysteresis loop, does not appear. In this study, we investigate the impact of chemically induced hydrostatic pressure (pchem) on the phase stability and polarization characteristics of NaNbO3-based ceramics. We reveal that the cell volume of Ca-modified NaNbO3 [(CaxNa1−2xVx)NbO3], where V is A-site vacancy, decreases with increasing x by a positive pchem. Structural analysis using micro-X-ray diffraction measurements shows that a reversible AFE–FE phase transition leads to a double P-E hysteresis loop for the sample with x = 0.10. DFT calculations support that a positive pchem stabilizes the AFE phase even after the electrical poling and provides the reversible phase transition. Our study demonstrates that an application of positive pchem is effective in delivering the double P-E loop in the NaNbO3 system for energy storage applications.
Histological markers, sickle-shaped blood vessels, myxoid area, and infiltrating growth pattern help stratify the prognosis of patients with myxofibrosarcoma/undifferentiated sarcoma
Authors: Washimi Kota , Kasajima Rika , Shimizu Eigo , Sato Shinya , Okubo Yoichiro , Yoshioka Emi , Narimatsu Hiroto , Hiruma Toru , Katayama Kotoe , Yamaguchi Rui , Yamaguchi Kiyoshi , Furukawa Yoichi , Miyano Satoru , Imoto Seiya , Yokose Tomoyuki , Miyagi Yohei
Published: April 2023

Myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) and undifferentiated sarcoma (US) have been considered as tumors of the same lineage based on genetic/epigenetic profiling. Although MFS shows a notably better prognosis than US, there are no clear criteria for distinguishing between them. Here, we examined 85 patients with MFS/US and found that tumors with infiltrative growth patterns tended to have more myxoid areas and higher local recurrence rates but fewer distant metastases and better overall survival. Morphologically characteristic sickle-shaped blood vessels, which tended to have fewer αSMA-positive cells, were also observed in these tumors, compared with normal vessels. Based on the incidence of these sickle-shaped blood vessels, we subdivided conventionally diagnosed US into two groups. This stratification was significantly correlated with metastasis and prognosis. RNA sequencing of 24 tumors (9 MFS and 15 US tumors) demonstrated that the proteasome, NF-kB, and VEGF pathways were differentially regulated among these tumors. Expression levels of KDR and NFATC4, which encode a transcription factor responsible for the neuritin-insulin receptor angiogenic signaling, were elevated in the sickle-shaped blood vessel-rich US tumors. These findings indicate that further analyses may help elucidate the malignant potential of MFS/US tumors as well as the development of therapeutic strategies for such tumors.
Multifunctional Zn and Ag co-doped bioactive glass nanoparticles for bone therapeutic and regeneration
Authors: Naruphontjirakul Parichart , Kanchanadumkerng Pimpikar , Ruenraroengsak Pakatip
Published: April 2023

Bone cancer has traditionally been treated using surgery, radiotherapy, and/or chemotherapy. The nonspecific distribution of chemotherapy and implantable infections are significant risk factors for the failure of the bone to heal. Multifunctional zinc and silver co-doped bioactive glass nanoparticles (yAg–xZn-BGNPs) with a diameter of 150 ± 30 nm were successfully synthesized using modified sol–gel and two-step post-functionalization processes, tailored to provide antibacterial and anticancer activity whilst maintaining osteogenesis ability. Co-doped BGNPs with Zn and Ag did not significantly alter physicochemical properties, including size, morphology, glass network, and amorphous nature. Apatite-like layer was observed on the surface of yAg–xZn-BGNPs and resorbed in the simulated body fluid solution, which could increase their bioactivity. Human fetal osteoblast cell line (hFOB 1.19) treated with particles showed calcified tissue formation and alkaline phosphatase activity in the absence of osteogenic supplements in vitro, especially with 0.5Ag–1Zn-BGNPs. Moreover, these particles preferentially disrupted the metabolic activity of bone cancer cells (MG-63) and had an antibacterial effect against B. subtilis, E. coli, and S. aureus via the disc diffusion method. This novel 0.5Ag–1Zn-BGNP and 1Ag–1Zn-BGNPs, with wide-ranging ability to stimulate bone regeneration, to inhibit bone cancer cell proliferation, and to prevent bacterial growth properties, may provide a feasible strategy for bone cancer treatment. The 0.5Ag–1Zn-BGNPs and 1Ag–1Zn-BGNPs can be applied for the preparation of scaffolds or filler composites using in bone tissue engineering.
Moringa oleiferaleaf polysaccharides exert anti-lung cancer effects upon targeting TLR4 to reverse the tumor-associated macrophage phenotype and promote T-cell infiltration
Authors: Wang Shukai , Hu Qian , Chang Zihao , Liu Yuqi , Gao Ye , Luo Xiaowei , Zhou Lipeng , Chen Yinxin , Cui Yitong , Wang Zhaohui , Wang Baojin , Huang Ya , Liu Yue , Liu Runping , Zhang Lanzhen
Published: April 2023

MOLP demonstrate anti-Lewis lung cancer effects by reversing the tumor-associated macrophage phenotype and restoring T-cell function.
Hydrogen evolution reaction following the Slater–Pauling curve: acceleration of rate processes induced from dipole interaction between protons and ferromagnetic catalysts
Authors: Morishita Masao , Okumura Yuki , Fukushima Ramu , Yamamoto Hiroaki , Yanagita Hidefumi
Published: April 2023

The magnetic dipole interaction between the nuclear spin of the proton and the electronic spin of the magnetic catalyst is verified for the first time. The findings of this study will open a new direction in catalyst design aided by a magnetic field.
Dietary 5-demethylnobiletin prevents antibiotic-associated dysbiosis of gut microbiota and damage to the colonic barrier
Authors: Zhan Minmin , Liang Xinyan , Chen Jiaqi , Yang Xiaoshuang , Han Yanhui , Zhao Chenxi , Xiao Jie , Cao Yong , Xiao Hang , Song Mingyue
Published: April 2023

Dietary 5-demethylnobiletin alleviated antibiotic-associated gut disorder by decreasing the mRNA transcription levels of antioxidative enzymes and increasing the expression of tight junction proteins and the relative levels of beneficial bacteria.
Dietary protocatechuic acid redistributes tight junction proteins by targeting Rho-associated protein kinase to improve intestinal barrier function
Authors: So Bo Ram , Kim San , Jang Se Hyeon , Kim Min Jeong , Lee Jeong Jae , Kim Soo Rin , Jung Sung Keun
Published: April 2023

Proposed molecular mechanism of PCA on redistribution of tight junction proteins, intestinal permeability, and subsequent IBD, both in vitro and in vivo.
Towards superior mRNA caps accessible by click chemistry: synthesis and translational properties of triazole-bearing oligonucleotide cap analogs
Authors: Kozarski Mateusz , Drazkowska Karolina , Bednarczyk Marcelina , Warminski Marcin , Jemielity Jacek , Kowalska Joanna
Published: April 2023

mRNA-based gene delivery is a powerful strategy for many therapeutic areas. In this work, we used CuAAC to synthesize next-generation triazole-bearing mRNA 5' cap analogs and evaluated them as reagents for modification of in vitro transcribed mRNA.
A simple chemical reduction approach to dope β-FeSi2 with boron and its comprehensive characterization
Authors: Sen Sabyasachi , Acharya Debdipto , Guha Prasanta Kumar , Banerji Pallab , Pramanik Panchanan
Published: April 2023

A simple chemical reduction approach to doping β-FeSi2 with boron and its comprehensive characterization through experimental and density functional theorem (DFT) Analyses.
Power dependent photoacoustic and photoluminescence studies on a Ho3+/Yb3+ doped Y2O3 phosphor
Authors: Sarkar Minarul I. , Kumar Kaushal
Published: April 2023

The Ho3+/Yb3+ doped Y2O3 phosphor samples were synthesized through a combustion method and then were annealed at 800 °C, 1000 °C, and 1200 °C.
Metal organic framework-loaded polyethersulfone/polyacrylonitrile photocatalytic nanofibrous membranes under visible light irradiation for the removal of Cr(vi) and phenol from water
Authors: Koushkbaghi Shahnaz , Kermani Hamta Arjmand , Jamshidifard Sana , Faramarzi Hamed , Khosravi Mina , Abadi Parvaneh Ghaderi-shekhi , Jazi Fariborz Sharifian , Irani Mohammad
Published: April 2023

Metal organic framework-loaded photocatalytic membrane to remove phenol and Cr(vi).
Synergistic effect of porous carbon shell confinement and catalytic conversion of nickel nanoparticle cores for improved lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Jianming Liu , Jin Zhang , Shang Jiang , Jianguo Zhao
Published: April 2023

A novel Ni@PC core–shell structure with gradient adsorption capacity for sulfur species is simply synthesized and developed as a sulfur host for high rate, stable lithium–sulfur batteries.
A CaCuSi4O10/GCE electrochemical sensor for detection of norfloxacin in pharmaceutical formulations
Authors: Muungani Gregarious , van Zyl Werner E.
Published: April 2023

A calcium copper silicate (CaCuSi4O10)/glassy carbon electrode (GCE) sensor was developed for sensing of an antibacterial drug, norfloxacin, using both cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry.
Color-transparency dual-control devices based on patterned electrode-induced limited assembly of photonic liquid
Authors: Liu Xuejuan , Wang Zhe , Liu Yang , Yang Lili , Ge Dengteng
Published: April 2023

We demonstrate an effective strategy for the dual control of color and transparency based on limited assembly of a photonic liquid induced by patterned electrodes. This device can achieve a color change from orange-red to blue and a transparency change from opaque to translucency.
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Progression in Glaucoma Patients with Unchanged Topical Treatment over 3 Years – Retrospective Observational Cohort Analysis
Authors: Saruhan Yasemin , Hasler Pascal W. , Gugleta Konstantin
Published: April 2023

Background Lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) is a mainstay of glaucoma therapy. It is, however, still an open question whether a comparable level of long-term IOP lowering achieved
by different medications results in comparable protection for the retinal ganglion cells. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze glaucoma damage progression in two cohorts
of primary open-angle glaucoma patients with different and unchanged therapy over a period of 3 years, and the main objective of this study was to determine possible differences in terms of
structural [retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL)] and functional [visual field (VF)] outcome.

Patients and Methods The retrospective observational cohort analysis compared two differently treated groups of glaucoma patients with their original, at study entry, topical therapy
unchanged over 3 years. The main endpoint was the time course of RNFL thickness and VF mean defect (MD).

Results Twenty-one eyes were included in each group. The first group (21 eyes) was on a fixed combination of timolol and dorzolamide twice a day and the second group on one drop of
prostaglandin analog, either latanoprost alone (15 eyes) or travoprost alone (6 eyes), in an unchanged regimen over a period of 3 years. IOP in mmHg at baseline and at 36 months was
11.9 ± 2.4 and 13.0 ± 2.1 in the first, and 12.9 ± 3.0 and 14.1 ± 3.2 in the second group, respectively. RNFL thickness values in micrometers were at baseline and at 36 months 77.8 ± 12.3
and 76.6 ± 15.2 in the first, and 77.5 ± 15.2 and 72.8 ± 14.5 in the second group, respectively. VF MD in dB were 1.7 ± 2.5 and 1.2 ± 2.9 in the first, and 0.9 ± 2.3 and 0.7 ± 2.6 in the
second group, respectively.

Conclusion Both groups had comparable baseline, as well as mean overall IOP. However, the course of IOP levels over time was different in the two groups, showing earlier and more
pronounced long-term drift in the prostaglandin analog-treated group. RNFL thickness was comparable at baseline, however, RNFL thinning over time was more pronounced in the prostaglandin
analog-treated group. There were no statistical differences between the groups in terms of VF MD at baseline and over time.