bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twin Boundaries Contribute to The First Cycle Irreversibility of LiNiO2
Authors: Nguyen H. , Silverstein R. , Zaveri A. , Cui W. , Kurzhals P. , Sicolo S. , Bianchini M. , Seidel K. , Clément R. J.
Published: October 2023

LiNiO2 remains a target for layered oxide Li‐ion cathode development as it can theoretically deliver the highest energy density of this materials class. In practice, LiNiO2 suffers from poor capacity retention due to electrochemically‐induced structural changes. While the impact of Ni off‐stoichiometry on the electrochemical performance has been extensively studied, that of planar defects present in the as‐synthesized cathode is not well understood. Advanced ex situ and operando structure probes are used to identify and quantify point and planar defects present in as‐synthesized Li1‐yNi1+yO2 cathodes and monitor their evolution during the first cycle. Specifically, a 7Li  nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signature characteristic of Li environments near twin boundaries is identified; an assignment supported by first‐principles calculations and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) images of twin boundary defects. The NMR results suggest that the concentration of twin boundaries depends on the amount of Ni excess. Moreover, operando magnetometry and ex situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and NMR demonstrate that these planar defects impede Li reinsertion into the bulk cathode at reasonable discharge rates and contribute to the first cycle irreversible capacity. These findings provide new design rules for Li1‐yNi1+yO2 cathodes, whereby a reduced concentration of twin boundaries in the pristine material leads to reduced kinetic limitations and improved cathode utilization.
Epilepsy in cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome: Clinical burden and response to anti‐seizure medication
Authors: Kenney‐Jung Daniel L. , Collazo‐Lopez Josue E. , Rogers Dante J. , Shanley Ryan , Zatkalik Abigail L. , Whitmarsh Ashley E. , Roberts Amy E. , Zenker Martin , Pierpont Elizabeth I.
Published: October 2023

Treatment‐resistant epilepsy is among the most serious complications of cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome (CFCS), a rare disorder caused by germline variants in the RAS‐MAPK signaling pathway. This study analyzed the clinical characteristics of epilepsy and response to anti‐seizure medications (ASMs) in a multinational CFCS cohort. A caregiver survey provided data regarding seizure history, use of ASMs and other treatment approaches, adverse effects, caregiver perception of treatment response, and neurological disease burden impact among individuals with CFCS. Results from 138 survey responses were quantitatively analyzed in conjunction with molecular genetic results and neurological records. The disease burden impact of CFCS was higher among individuals with epilepsy (n = 74/138), especially those with more severe seizure presentation. Oxcarbazepine, a sodium‐channel blocker, had the best seizure control profile with relatively infrequent adverse effects. The most commonly prescribed ASM, levetiracetam, demonstrated comparatively poor seizure control. ASM efficacy was generally similar for individuals with BRAF and MAP2K1 gene variants. The high proportion of patients with CFCS who experienced poor seizure control despite use of multiple ASMs highlights a substantial unmet treatment need. Prospective study of ASM efficacy and clinical trials of therapies to attenuate RAS‐MAPK signaling may improve avenues for clinical management.
Alzheimer's disease‐induced phagocytic microglia express a specific profile of coding and non‐coding RNAs
Authors: Scoyni Flavia , Giudice Luca , Väänänen Mari‐Anna , Downes Nicholas , Korhonen Paula , Choo Xin Yi , Välimäki Nelli‐Noora , Mäkinen Petri , Korvenlaita Nea , Rozemuller Annemieke J , de Vries Helga E , Polo Jose , Turunen Tiia A , Ylä‐Herttuala Seppo , Hansen Thomas B , Grubman Alexandra , Kaikkonen Minna U , Malm Tarja
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease and the main cause of dementia in the elderly. AD pathology is characterized by accumulation of microglia around the beta‐amyloid (Aβ) plaques which assumes disease‐specific transcriptional signatures, as for the disease‐associated microglia (DAM). However, the regulators of microglial phagocytosis are still unknown.

METHODS

We isolated Aβ‐laden microglia from the brain of 5xFAD mice for RNA sequencing to characterize the transcriptional signature in phagocytic microglia and to identify the key non‐coding RNAs capable of regulating microglial phagocytosis. Through spatial sequencing, we show the transcriptional changes of microglia in the AD mouse brain in relation to Aβ proximity.

RESULTS

Finally, we show that phagocytic messenger RNAs are regulated by miR‐7a‐5p, miR‐29a‐3p and miR‐146a‐5p microRNAs and segregate the DAM population into phagocytic and non‐phagocytic states.

DISCUSSION

Our study pinpoints key regulators of microglial Aβ clearing capacity suggesting new targets for future therapeutic approaches.
Eligibility Rates among Racially and Ethnically Diverse US Participants in Phase 2 and Phase 3 Placebo‐Controlled, Double‐Blind, Randomized Trials of Lecanemab and Elenbecestat in Early Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Grill Joshua D. , Flournoy Charlene , Dhadda Shobha , Ernstrom Karin , Sperling Reisa , Molina‐Henry Doris , Tranotti Kate , Harris Russell , Kanekiyo Michio , Gee Michelle , Irizarry Michael , Kramer Lynn , Aisen Paul , Raman Rema
Published: October 2023

Objective

Many factors contribute to inadequate diversity in Alzheimer disease (AD) clinical trials. We evaluated eligibility rates among racial and ethnic groups at US sites in large global multisite trials in early AD.

Methods

Using screening data from 4 randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trials in early AD, we assessed rates of eligibility among racial and ethnic groups controlling for other demographic covariates. Each trial incorporated positron emission tomography and/or cerebrospinal fluid to evaluate brain amyloid pathology, as well as typical eligibility criteria used in early AD trials.

Results

Across the trials, 10,804 US participants were screened: 193 (2%) were of Hispanic ethnicity and Black race, 2,624 (25%) were of Hispanic ethnicity and White race, 118 (1%) were of non‐Hispanic ethnicity (NH) and Asian race, 696 (7%) were of NH ethnicity and Black race, and 7,017 (65%) were of NH ethnicity and White race. Data from 156 participants who did not fit into these categories were excluded. Accounting for age, sex, and trial and using NH White participants as a reference group, we observed higher probabilities of ineligibility for amyloid biomarker criteria among Hispanic Black (odds ratio [OR] = 3.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.11–4.88), Hispanic White (OR = 4.15, 95% CI = 3.58–4.83), NH Asian (OR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.23–4.55), and NH Black (OR = 3.75, 95% CI = 2.80–5.06) participants.

Interpretation

Differential eligibility may contribute to underrepresentation of some minoritized racial and ethnic groups in early AD trials. Amyloid biomarker eligibility is a requirement to confirm the diagnosis of AD and for treatment with amyloid‐lowering drugs and differed among racial and ethnic groups. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:288–298
Mechanical Effects of Elastic Crystals Driven by Natural Sunlight and Force
Authors: Peng Jiang , Han Chuchu , Zhang Xin , Jia Junhui , Bai Jiakun , Zhang Qi , Wang Yan , Xue Pengchong
Published: October 2023

Flexible crystals that can capture solar energy and convert it into mechanical energy are promising for a wide range of applications such as information storage and actuators, but obtaining them remains a challenge. Herein, an elastic crystal of a barbiturate derivative was found to be an excellent candidate, demonstrating plastic bending behavior under natural sunlight irradiation. 1H NMR and high‐resolution mass spectrum data of microcrystals before and after light irradiation demonstrated that light‐induced [2+2] cycloaddition was the driving force for the photomechanical effects. Interestingly, the crystals retained elastic bending even after light irradiation. This is the first report of flexible crystals that can be driven by natural sunlight and that have both photomechanical properties and elasticity. Furthermore, regulation of the passive light output direction of the crystals and transport of objects by applying mechanical forces and light was demonstrated.
Filter operation effects on plant‐scale microbial risk: Opportunities for enhanced treatment performance
Authors: de Brito Cruz Dafne , Brown Trevor J. , Jin Chao , Kundert Kelsey L. , Ruecker Norma J. , Ballantyne Liza , Schmidt Philip J. , Anderson William B. , Emelko Monica B.
Published: October 2023

Granular media filtration remains a critical treatment process and regulatory requirement for managing pathogenic protozoa in drinking water. It is a dynamic process in which performance inherently varies. While research has focused on characterizing or maximizing (oo)cyst removal in individual filters, the risk implications of combinations of filters moving through different phases of the filter cycle (leading to temporal variation in plant‐scale performance) have not been described. Increasing threats from climate‐change‐exacerbated landscape disturbances leading to more variable source water quality emphasize the need for such evaluations. Here, a modeling framework was developed to investigate the impacts of individual filter performance variation on plant‐scale performance. It is shown that improving maximal removal during stable operation does not necessarily improve average performance. The effect of other design and operational strategies like increasing the number of filters or implementing proactive operations (e.g., avoiding breakthrough) are analyzed, thereby providing guidance for increasing treatment resilience.
Techno‐economic learning in biorefinery research; a meta‐level perspective of three exemplary cases
Authors: Krassnitzer Paul , Wenger Julia , Stern Tobias
Published: October 2023

The production of liquid fuels and chemicals from biomass is an essential part of establishing a bioeconomy. Numerous techno‐economic studies have been published on different pathways for processing biomass. To examine the progress made in this field, a meta‐analysis investigating three exemplary biobased products was conducted. Using recently published techno‐economic studies, the (average) unit production costs for biodiesel, cellulosic ethanol and kraft lignin were investigated. Findings in this study are based on an understanding of two phenomena: economies of scale and the learning effect. Economies of scale can be observed for each case, with kraft lignin extraction indicating the greatest cost advantages and the production of biodiesel the smallest. The investigation of potential learning effects revealed by the data yielded unexpected results: In two out of three cases, the calculated average unit production cost was observed to increase over time. These results contradict the expected influence of learning effects on calculated unit production costs as these did not decrease over time for a specific technology. A closer investigation of processing pathways and feedstocks shows that a diversification in research has occurred over the last three decades. Different driving forces of innovation related to the investigated products are also identified.
Numerical cognitive reflection, but not verbal cognitive reflection, moderates the association between trait anxiety and affective decision‐making
Authors: Li Danfeng , Wang Jianming , Ao Man
Published: October 2023

Affective decision‐making is a decision process with significant and strong emotional consequences marked by meaningful rewards and losses. Previous studies found inconsistent results regarding whether trait anxiety hinders affective decision‐making. Also, previous studies also proved that people with lower cognitive reflection were less likely to exhibit better performance in decision‐making when compared with higher cognition reflection individuals. Using the risk‐as‐feeling hypothesis, which explicitly postulates an interaction between cognitive and affective processes in people's decision‐making, we explore whether cognitive reflection moderates the relationship between trait anxiety and affective decision‐making. Participants (N = 261) completed the standardized version of the Iowa Gambling Task, which is widely used to assess affective decision‐making, Trait Anxiety Inventory, numerical cognitive reflection test (numerical CRT), and verbal cognitive reflection test (CRT‐V). The results showed that cognitive reflection measured by the numerical CRT rather than the CRT‐V moderated the relationship between trait anxiety and affective decision‐making. Specifically, individuals with lower cognitive reflection exhibited a negative association between trait anxiety and affective decision‐making, whereas individuals with higher cognitive reflection did not exhibit a relationship between trait anxiety and cognitive reflection. The present study helps to explain how cognitive reflection and trait anxiety interact in affective decision‐making and provides guidance targeting individuals with higher trait anxiety to improve their numerical cognitive reflection ability and better address their affective decision‐making.
Understanding the brain with attention: A survey of transformers in brain sciences
Authors: Chen Cheng , Wang Huilin , Chen Yunqing , Yin Zihan , Yang Xinye , Ning Huansheng , Zhang Qian , Li Weiguang , Xiao Ruoxiu , Zhao Jizong
Published: October 2023

Owing to their superior capabilities and advanced achievements, Transformers have gradually attracted attention with regard to understanding complex brain processing mechanisms. This study aims to comprehensively review and discuss the applications of Transformers in brain sciences. First, we present a brief introduction of the critical architecture of Transformers. Then, we overview and analyze their most relevant applications in brain sciences, including brain disease diagnosis, brain age prediction, brain anomaly detection, semantic segmentation, multi‐modal registration, functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) modeling, Electroencephalogram (EEG) processing, and multi‐task collaboration. We organize the model details and open sources for reference and replication. In addition, we discuss the quantitative assessments, model complexity, and optimization of Transformers, which are topics of great concern in the field. Finally, we explore possible future challenges and opportunities, exploiting some concrete and recent cases to provoke discussion and innovation. We hope that this review will stimulate interest in further research on Transformers in the context of brain sciences.
Multifunctional composite designs for structural energy storage
Authors: Nie Bo , Lim Jonghan , Liu Tengxiao , Kovalenko Ilya , Guo Kaixuan , Liang Junfei , Zhu Jian , Sun Hongtao
Published: October 2023

Structural batteries have emerged as a promising alternative to address the limitations inherent in conventional battery technologies. They offer the potential to integrate energy storage functionalities into stationary constructions as well as mobile vehicles/planes. The development of multifunctional composites presents an effective avenue to realize the structural plus concept, thereby mitigating inert weight while enhancing energy storage performance beyond the material level, extending to cell‐ and system‐level attributes. Specifically, multifunctional composites within structural batteries can serve the dual roles of functional composite electrodes for charge storage and structural composites for mechanical load‐bearing. However, the implementation of these multifunctional composites faces a notable challenge in simultaneously realizing mechanical properties and energy storage performance due to the unstable interfaces. In this review, we first introduce recent research developments pertaining to electrodes, electrolytes, separators, and interface engineering, all tailored to structure plus composites for structure batteries. Then, we summarize the mechanical and electrochemical characterizations in this context. We also discuss the reinforced multifunctional composites for different structures and battery configurations and conclude with a perspective on future opportunities. The knowledge synthesized in this review contributes to the realization of efficient and durable energy storage systems seamlessly integrated into structural components.
Probing interfacial electrochemistry by in situ atomic force microscope for battery characterization
Authors: Wang Manman , Song Zhibo , Bi Jinxin , Li Huanxin , Xu Ming , Gong Yi , Zhou Yundong , Zhao Yunlong , Yang Kai
Published: October 2023

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely used in electric vehicles and energy storage industries. An understanding of the reaction processes and degradation mechanism in LIBs is crucial for optimizing their performance. In situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) as a surface‐sensitive tool has been applied in the real‐time monitoring of the interfacial processes within lithium batteries. Here, we reviewed the recent progress of the application of in situ AFM for battery characterizations, including LIBs, lithium–sulfur batteries, and lithium–oxygen batteries. We summarized advances in the in situ AFM for recording electrode/electrolyte interface, mechanical properties, morphological changes, and surface evolution. Future directions of in situ AFM for the development of lithium batteries were also discussed in this review.
The effects of the chemical modification on immobilized lipase features are affected by the enzyme crowding in the support
Authors: Abellanas‐Perez Pedro , Carballares Diego , Rocha‐Martin Javier , Fernandez‐Lafuente Roberto
Published: October 2023

In this article, we have analyzed the interactions between enzyme crowding on a given support and its chemical modification (ethylenediamine modification via the carbodiimide route and picryl sulfonic (TNBS) modification of the primary amino groups) on the enzyme activity and stability. Lipase from Thermomyces lanuginosus (TLL) and lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB) were immobilized on octyl‐agarose beads at two very different enzyme loadings, one of them exceeding the capacity of the support, one well under this capacity. Chemical modifications of the highly loaded and lowly loaded biocatalysts gave very different results in terms of activity and stability, which could increase or decrease enzyme activity depending on the enzyme support loading. For example, both lowly loaded biocatalysts increased their activity after modification while the effect was the opposite for the highly loaded biocatalysts. Additionally, the modification with TNBS of highly loaded CALB biocatalyst increased its stability while decrease the activity.
Who cares? Effects of gendered self‐perceptions on dropout intentions in communal degree programs
Authors: Olsen Marte , Parks‐Stamm Elizabeth J. , Lund Ingvild Marie Hansen , Martiny Sarah E.
Published: October 2023

Global population aging trends create an increased need for educated workers in the health domain. At the same time, communal degree programs (i.e., health care and early education [HEE]) show high dropout rates—particularly for men. Extending person‐environment fit theory and the lack of fit model, we investigate whether students' (gendered) self‐perceptions relate to perceived fit and whether fit is associated with their sense of belonging to the degree program and dropout intentions. We conducted an online experiment with 298 Norwegian students enrolled in HEE degree programs (66 men, 232 women; Mage = 25.32, SD = 6.08). We experimentally manipulated the importance of communal versus neutral traits in communal occupations. The manipulation showed no effects on students' perceived fit or sense of belonging. However, students' gender was significantly related to their communal self‐perceptions. Male students perceived themselves as less communal, and this perception was associated with lower perceived fit. Lower perceived fit was associated with a lower sense of belonging and higher dropout intentions. Our findings indicate that gender differences in communal self‐perceptions exist even among students in communal degree programs, and that this difference in perceived communality may contribute to the higher dropout rates of male students.
Environmental Feasibility Analysis for the Acrylonitrile Production from Glycerol
Authors: Musse Neto Guilherme João , Braga Eduardo Ramos , Pontes Luiz Antônio Magalhães
Published: October 2023

Acrylonitrile is a monomer traded as a commodity on the global market with applications in several industrial sectors, produced from the ammoxidation of propylene. New technological alternatives are being studied, reducing the use of petroleum derivatives through renewable raw materials. This article proposes the application of the life cycle assessment technique for acrylonitrile production from glycerol, with the objective of evaluating the environmental impacts generated in the process. The results demonstrated that the use of glycerol from the state of Mato Grosso can reduce consumption of fossil fuel and water by 45 % and 31 %, respectively. The results about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions were little significant when replacing the raw material.
Modular Synthesis of Multi‐substituted Cyclobutanones Enabled by Oxyallyl Cations†
Authors: Wang Meng , Wang Zhonggui , Lu Ping
Published: October 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Stereoselective synthesis of multi‐substituted cyclobutanes with different substituents is still a daunting challenge in organic synthesis. We report here a practical and facile approach to synthesizing all‐trans 2,3,4‐trisubstituted cyclobutanones from readily available dichlorocyclobutanones. The substitution reaction proceeds smoothly via oxyallyl cation intermediates under mild basic conditions. Further transformation to the synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐tetrasubstituted cyclobutanes was also explored.
Antennapedia: The complexity of a master developmental transcription factor
Authors: Rosales‐Vega Marco , Reséndez‐Pérez Diana , Vázquez Martha
Published: October 2023

Hox genes encode transcription factors that play an important role in establishing the basic body plan of animals. In Drosophila, Antennapedia is one of the five genes that make up the Antennapedia complex (ANT‐C). Antennapedia determines the identity of the second thoracic segment, known as the mesothorax. Misexpression of Antennapedia at different developmental stages changes the identity of the mesothorax, including the muscles, nervous system, and cuticle. In Drosophila, Antennapedia has two distinct promoters highly regulated throughout development by several transcription factors. Antennapedia proteins are found with other transcription factors in different ANTENNAPEDIA transcriptional complexes to regulate multiple subsets of target genes. In this review, we describe the different mechanisms that regulate the expression and function of Antennapedia and the role of this Hox gene in the development of Drosophila.
Estimating effective survey duration in camera trap distance sampling surveys
Authors: Kühl Hjalmar S. , Buckland Stephen T. , Henrich Maik , Howe Eric , Heurich Marco
Published: October 2023

Among other approaches, camera trap distance sampling (CTDS) is used to estimate animal abundance from unmarked populations. It was formulated for videos and observation distances are measured at predetermined ‘snapshot moments’. Surveys recording still images with passive infrared motion sensors suffer from frequent periods where animals are not photographed, either because of technical delays before the camera can be triggered again (i.e. ‘camera recovery time’) or because they remain stationary and do not immediately retrigger the camera following camera recovery time (i.e. ‘retrigger delays’). These effects need to be considered when calculating temporal survey effort to avoid downwardly biased abundance estimates. Here, we extend the CTDS model for passive infrared motion sensor recording of single images or short photo series. We propose estimating ‘mean time intervals between triggers’ as combined mean camera recovery time and mean retrigger delays from the time interval distribution of pairs of consecutive pictures, using a Gamma and Exponential function, respectively. We apply the approach to survey data on red deer, roe deer and wild boar. Mean time intervals between triggers were very similar when estimated empirically and when derived from the model‐based approach. Depending on truncation times (i.e. the time interval between consecutive pictures beyond which data are discarded) and species, we estimated mean time intervals between retriggers between 8.28 and 15.05 s. Using a predefined snapshot interval, not accounting for these intervals, would lead to underestimated density by up to 96% due to overestimated temporal survey effort. The proposed approach is applicable to any taxa surveyed with camera traps. As programming of cameras to record still images is often preferred over video recording due to reduced consumption of energy and memory, we expect this approach to find broad application, also for other camera trap methods than CTDS.
Does the fertile island effect in tamarisk nebkhas enhance in the northern Tarim Basin in the context of global warming?
Authors: Yin Chuanhua , Shi Qiumei , Zhou Yangming , Zhang Ke
Published: October 2023

With the intensification of global warming, uncertainty regarding ecosystem evolution trends in drylands has increased. The objective of this article was to test whether the desertification process of tamarisk shrubland was intensified by comparing fertile island effects and soil ecological stoichiometry characteristics at different time periods. The tamarisk shrubland in the “shrubland” and “shrub duneland” stages in the northern Tarim Basin was selected, and soil samples were collected from the tamarisk nabkhas and from the interspaces between tamarisk nebkhas at the 0‐ to 30‐cm soil layers in 2009 and 2018. Soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorous (P) were analyzed, and the C/N, C/P, and N/P ratios were calculated. In comparison with 2009, fertile island effects were completely collapsed in the shrub duneland stage, with no obvious changes in the shrubland stage in 2018. The average soil C/N ratio decreased from a value greater than 25 in both stages. The average value of soil C/P ratio was below 200 in the shrubland and shrub duneland stages, with almost no marked change after nine years. The soil N/P ratio in our study significantly increased in 2018 than in 2009, but the soil N/P ratio was still much less than 11.9. Significantly positive correlations were observed between the relative interaction index (RII) of soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil total nitrogen (TN) and the soil C/P and N/P ratios in the tamarisk nebkhas. These results suggested that (1) fertile island effects were positive in relation to soil stoichiometry in tamarisk nebkhas in most cases; (2) the desertification process was accelerated in the shrub duneland stage, with no obvious progress during the shrubland stage; and (3) the loss of soil C from the collapsed fertile islands could therefore accelerate global warming.
Scalable multimodal weak anion exchange chromatographic purification for stable mRNA drug substance
Authors: Megušar Polona , Miklavčič Rok , Korenč Matevž , Ličen Jure , Vodopivec Tina , Černigoj Urh , Štrancar Aleš , Sekirnik Rok
Published: October 2023

Messenger RNA (mRNA) has emerged as a modality with immense therapeutic potential. Recent innovations in production process of mRNA call for procedures to isolate pure mRNA drug substance (DS) with high yield, high capacity, scalability, and compatibility with GMP production systems. Novel RNA modalities, such as circular RNA (circRNA), have further driven the need for non‐affinity capture possibilities which are already widely used in the biopharmaceutical industry, for example, in monoclonal antibody processing. The principle that multimodal ion exchange/hydrogen bonding chromatography can be used to separate mRNA from in vitro transcription components has recently been demonstrated. Here, we apply and refine this approach to be suitable for scalable purification of multiple mRNA constructs with sufficient yields, purity, and stability, for use in mRNA production process. Binding capacity of the PrimaS‐modified monolithic chromatographic column for mRNA enabled up to 7 mg/mL product isolation in a single chromatographic run, with 98% recovery and room temperature stability of the eGFP mRNA demonstrated for up to 28 days. This approach is independent of construct size or the presence of polyadenylic acid tail and is applicable for capture of a wide variety of RNAs, including mRNA, self‐amplifying RNA, circRNA, and with optimization also smaller RNAs such as transfer RNA and others.
Death of a palaeochannel: Slow abandonment of an avulsed channel on the Riverine Plains, SE Australia
Authors: Kemp Justine , Pietsch Timothy J.
Published: October 2023

Avulsion of rivers can be a gradual process that is associated with a metamorphosis of channel pattern or changed channel characteristics. The processes controlling avulsion, and hence anastomosis, often operate too slowly to study by measuring active river systems, and hence well preserved Late Quaternary rivers offer one of the best ways to study the long‐term development of avulsive systems. The modern and ancient channels of the Murrumbidgee River provide a classic example of long‐lived, semi‐static anastomosis, operating on timescales that include stadial and interstadial climate cycles. Over the last glacial cycle, regional avulsions have occurred every ~12 ka while maintaining an anastomosing pattern through the slow infill of abandoned channels. The Yanco Creek Palaeochannel System emerged from a period of high discharge linked to snowmelt in the terminal Pleistocene. Here, geomorphological mapping of the Yanco System was conducted together with single‐grain, optically stimulated luminescence dating of sediments in the channel belt. Since the main phase of channel construction during the Last Glacial Maximum, the Yanco system has functioned as a flood conduit and minor anabranch of the Murrumbidgee River, with reworking of ancient channel sediments by an underfit stream that is ongoing to the present day. Our new ages of ~13–14 ka are interpreted as channel sedimentation during an underfit phase following avulsion. The prevalence of full and partial avulsion in this environment may be complicating palaeohydrological interpretations of ages for channel activity, and reworking has gone unrecognised. We contend that some previous interpretations of the significance of ages for sediments collected from palaeochannels in the Riverine Plain may need revision.
Protective mechanisms of quercetin in neonatal rat brain injury induced by hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage (HIBD)
Authors: Xu Yan‐hong , Xu Jin‐bo , Chen Lu‐lu , Su Wei , Zhu Qing , Tong Guang‐lei
Published: October 2023

Neonatal hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage (HIBD) is a leading cause of infant mortality worldwide. This study explored whether quercetin (Que) exerts neuroprotective effects in a rat model of HIBD. A total of 36 seven‐day‐old Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into control, Que, HI, and HI + Que groups. The Rice method was used to establish HIBD in HI and HI + Que rats, which were treated with hypoxia (oxygen concentration of 8%) for 2 h after ligation of the left common carotid artery. The rats in the HI + Que group were intraperitoneally injected with Que (30 mg/kg) 1 h before hypoxia, and the rats in the Que group were only injected with the same amount of Que. Brain tissues were harvested 24 h postoperation and assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling assay; relative gene and protein levels were evaluated by RT‐qPCR, IHC, or western blot (WB) assay. Brain tissue morphologies were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM); LC3B protein levels were assessed by immunofluorescence staining. Escape latencies and platform crossing times were significantly improved (p < .05) in HI + Que groups; infarct volume significantly decreased (p < .001), whereas the numbers of autophagic bodies and apoptotic cells increased and decreased, respectively. Meanwhile, NLRX1, ATG7, and Beclin1 expressions were significantly upregulated, and mTOR and TIM23 expressions, LC3B protein level, and LC 3II/LC 3I ratio were significantly downregulated. Que exerted neuroprotective effects in a rat model of HIBD by regulating NLRX1 and autophagy.
Differential expression of Type I interferon and inflammatory genes in SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected patients treated with monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Maddaloni Luca , Santinelli Letizia , Bugani Ginevra , Cacciola Elio G. , Lazzaro Alessandro , Lofaro Chiara M. , Caiazzo Sara , Frasca Federica , Fracella Matteo , Ajassa Camilla , Leanza Cristiana , Napoli Anna , Cinti Lilia , Gaeta Aurelia , Antonelli Guido , Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Mastroianni Claudio M. , Scagnolari Carolina , d'Ettorre Gabriella
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Considering the reported efficacy of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against the Spike (S) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in reducing disease severity, the aim of this study was to investigate the innate immune response before and after mAbs treatment in 72 vaccinated and 31 unvaccinated SARS‐CoV‐2 patients.

Methods

The mRNA levels of IFN‐I, IFN‐related genes and cytokines were evaluated using RT/real‐time quantitative PCR.

Results

Vaccinated patients showed increased rate of negative SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR tests on nasopharyngeal swab compared with unvaccinated ones after mAbs treatment (p = .002). Unvaccinated patients had lower IFN‐α/ω and higher IFN‐related genes (IFNAR1, IFNAR2, IRF9, ISG15, ISG56 and IFI27) and cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐10 and TGF‐β) mRNA levels compared to vaccinated individuals before mAbs (p < .05 for all genes). Increased IFN‐α/ω, IFNAR1, IFNAR2 and IRF9 levels were observed in unvaccinated patients after mAbs treatment, while the mRNA expression ISGs and IL‐10 were reduced in all patients.

Conclusion

These data suggest that anti‐S vaccinated patients have increased levels of innate immune genes compared to unvaccinated ones. Also, gene expression changes in IFN genes after mAbs administration are different according to the vaccination status of patients.
TOmicsVis: An all‐in‐one transcriptomic analysis and visualization R package with Shinyapp interface
Authors: Miao Ben‐Ben , Dong Wei , Han Zhao‐Fang , Luo Xuan , Ke Cai‐Huan , You Wei‐Wei
Published: October 2023

Transcriptomic analysis has been widely used in comparative experiments to uncover biological mechanisms in various species. However, a simple tool is still lacking to optimize and integrate the features from multiple R packages. In this study, we developed TOmicsVis (Transcriptomics Visualization) (CRAN: https://cran.r-project.org/package=TOmicsVis, v2.0.0), an R package that provides a comprehensive solution for transcriptomics analysis and visualization. It utilizes 46 R packages to design 40 suitable functions for the streamlined analysis of multigroup transcriptomic projects, which covers six main categories: Sample Statistics, Traits Analysis, Differential Expression, Advanced Analysis, GO and KEGG Enrichment, and Table Operation. TOmicsVis can be performed either locally or online (https://shiny.hiplot.cn/tomicsvis-shiny/), which provides significant convenience for researchers without coding training. These user‐friendly visualization functions and built‐in analysis capabilities enable researchers to monitor experimental data dynamics promptly and explore transcriptomics data quickly.
Testosterone Administration Suppresses Adiponectin Levels in Men
Authors: Page Stephanie T. , Herbst Karen L. , Amory John K. , Coviello Andrea D. , Anawalt Bradley D. , Matsumoto Alvin M. , Bremner William J.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Testosterone (T) administration to men increases lean body mass and decreases fat mass. Adiponectin is produced by adipocytes and is thought to influence insulin sensitivity. In this study, we sought to determine whether experimental alterations in serum T change adiponectin levels in normal men. We measured adiponectin levels in 28 healthy men ages 18–35 years before and during treatment with a potent gonadotropin‐releasing‐hormone (GnRH) antagonist, acyline. Decreased T levels led to increased serum adiponectin within 7 days; maximal adiponectin levels were reached on day 21 (baseline 8.6 ± 0.9 compared with 12.2 ± 1.0 μg/mL on day 21, P < .05) and persisted through day 30, despite no significant changes in body mass index (BMI) and an increase in leptin. The addition of T to acyline, maintaining serum T levels within the normal range, prevented the increase in adiponectin following acyline alone. In a second study, 25 men aged 55–85 years were treated with 3 weeks of high‐dose T (testosterone enanthate [TE], 600 mg/wk intramuscularly). With high serum T levels, adiponectin levels decreased significantly by day 21 of treatment (baseline 14.3 ± 1.9 compared with 10.8 ± 1.5 μg/mL, P < .05 vs baseline and placebo), BMI slightly increased, and leptin levels were decreased. We conclude that adiponectin levels increase within days of experimental T deficiency in normal men, and the increase in adiponectin is prevented by T replacement. Furthermore, supraphysiologic T administration results in decreased adiponectin levels. Our data support the hypothesis that T, its metabolites, or both directly suppress adipocyte production of adiponectin.
Comprehensive application of multiple molecular diagnostic techniques in pre‐implantation genetic testing for monogenic
Authors: Huang Peng , Lan Yueyun , Zhou Hong , Lin Luye , Shu Jinhui , Wang Caizhu , Zhao Xin , Liang Lifang , He Sheng , Mou Jingfei , Zhang Xiaofei , Qiu Qingming , Wei Hongwei
Published: October 2023

Background

Pre‐implantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT‐M) is an effective approach to reducing the incidence of birth defects by preventing the transmission of inherited diseases to offspring. However, there are still controversies regarding the detection methods and transplantation of embryos. This paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different detection technologies applied to PGT‐M through a retrospective analysis of clinical detection data.

Methods

The carrier status of pathogenic mutations and chromosomal copy number variants (CNVs) in 892 embryos was characterized using next‐generation sequencing (NGS), single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, and PCR‐based detection technologies. Clinical data from PGT‐M cases were retrospectively analyzed to assess the effectiveness of these detection methods in identifying genetic abnormalities in embryos.

Results

A total of 829 embryos were analyzed, with 63 being unsuccessful. Our study revealed that the success rate of detecting deletional mutations using Gap‐PCR 84.9%, which is lower than that of SNP array (98.7%) and NGS (92.5%). However, no significant difference was observed when detecting point mutations using any of the methods. These findings suggest that, when detecting deletional mutations, SNP array and NGS are more suitable choices compared to Gap‐PCR. While SNP array may have a lower resolution and success rate (80.5%) in analyzing CNVs compared to NGS (95.5%), it may still be useful for revealing certain abnormal types.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study found that SNP analysis is advantageous for identifying polygenic and deletional mutations, whereas NGS is more cost‐efficient for detecting common monogenic diseases. Additionally, SNP‐based haplotyping and PCR‐based direct detection of mutations can be used together to enhance the accuracy and success rates of PGT‐M. Our findings offer valuable insights for PGT technicians in choosing suitable detection methods for patients.
Performance of Striped Bass reared at mid-Atlantic and Gulf coast photothermal regimes
Authors: Kenter Linas W. , Berlinsky David L.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Investigate Striped Bass Morone saxatilis growth in different photothermal environments and generate an interest in strain-specific broodstock development for marine net-pen culture.

Methods

In this effort, Striped Bass strains from Atlantic (Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland) and Gulf Coast (Florida and Texas) states were cultured in recirculating aquaculture systems, simulating a full-production cycle to early market size in each respective region's photothermal environment. The Atlantic and Gulf strains were initially maintained in recirculating aquaculture systems “nurseries” until 400 and 160 days postspawn, respectively, when offshore conditions (temperature) were conducive for stocking juvenile fish. Individuals from all strains were implanted with PIT tags and stocked (“common garden design”) into a pair of identical recirculating systems (three 5000-L tanks/system). One system received 48 Atlantic fish/tank (16 fish/strain; Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland), and the second system received 48 Gulf fish/tank (24 fish/strain; Florida and Texas). Salinity was maintained at 30‰, and photothermal regimes corresponded with ambient ocean conditions at selected locations off the mid-Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Studies were conducted for up to 2 years, and production parameters (feed conversion, absolute growth rate, survival) were compared.

Result

The final weights of ungraded fish in both simulated locations averaged approximately 900 g by 600 days postspawn and early market size (~1.3 kg) by 800 days postspawn.

Conclusion

Growth rates differed by strain in both nursery and grow-out phases, but the results indicate high potential for production of Striped Bass in U.S. coastal waters.
Discretization of PDEs with variable coefficients using locally adaptive sparse grids
Authors: Scherner‐Grießhammer Riccarda , Pflaum Christoph
Published: October 2023

Elliptic partial differential equations with variable coefficients can be discretized on sparse grids. With prewavelets being L2‐orthogonal, one can apply the Ritz‐Galerkin discretization to obtain a linear equation system with unknowns. However, for several applications like partial differential equations with corner singularities or the high‐dimensional Schrödinger equation, locally adaptive grids are needed to obtain optimal convergence. Therefore, we introduce a new kind of locally adaptive sparse grid and a corresponding algorithm that allows solving the resulting finite element discretization equation with optimal complexity. These grids are constructed by local tensor product grids to generate adaptivity but still maintain a local unidirectional approach. First simulation results of a two‐dimensional Helmholtz problem are presented.
Investigating the interaction of azobenzene moiety on the aromatic amino acid tryptophan
Authors: Frederic Charnette , Wiedman Gregory R.
Published: October 2023

Azobenzenes are a series of compounds that can be isomerized upon irradiation with light. These molecules can modify the physical, chemical, and biological properties of a diverse range of materials. They can control protein structure and function with temporal and spatial precision. In this work, we investigated the possible interaction between azobenzene and aromatic amino acids. We hypothesized that aromatic amino acids, such as tryptophan, would show altered photochemical properties when conjugated with azobenzene. When irradiated at either 365 nm or 465 nm, the molecule now lacks the usually characteristic photoswitch capabilities and is visibly fluorescent at 365 nm. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence to suggest that primary protein structure could affect photoswitch activity. The knowledge gained from this research will help to further the understanding of azobenzenes as they are used in biomolecules.
The use of recycled high‐density polyethylene waste to manufacture eco‐friendly plastic sand bricks
Authors: Gounden Kimendren , Mwangi Festus Maina , Mohan Turup Pandurangan , Kanny Krishnan
Published: October 2023

High‐density polyethylene (HDPE) polymer is one of the largest contributors to plastic wastes causing detrimental effects on various sectors of society, and is not biodegradable in nature. In the first stage, river sand and a recycled HDPE as a binder were used to manufacture eco‐friendly plastic sand bricks with various sand(s):plastic(p) ratios: 60s:40p; 65s:35p; 70s:30p; 75s:25p; 80s:20p; 85s:15p. In the second stage, 1%, 5%, and 10% of Kaolin Clay was added to each ratio of sand:plastic, respectively. Three mechanical tests were conducted: compressive strength, impact, and short beam strength. First, the addition of 5% Kaolin Clay to 75s:25p ratio increased compressive strength significantly from 21.4 to 52.76 MPa. Second, the addition of 10% Kaolin Clay in the ratio of 75s:25p mixture increased the impact strength from 4.8 to 5 J. Finally, the addition of 5% Kaolin Clay in the ratio of 60s:40p mixture increased the short beam strength significantly from 1.84 to 2.27 MPa. SEM analysis showed a well‐compacted interface indicating effective bonding between the HDPE and river sand particles in the 75s:25p ratio. Hence, the results of this study present a potential for the use of recycled HDPE plastic to manufacture plastic sand bricks.

Highlights

Addition of Kaolin Clay improved the mechanical properties of the composite material.
Well‐being trajectories in breast cancer and their predictors: A machine‐learning approach
Authors: Karademas Evangelos C. , Mylona Eugenia , Mazzocco Ketti , Pat‐Horenczyk Ruth , Sousa Berta , Oliveira‐Maia Albino J. , Oliveira Jose , Roziner Ilan , Stamatakos Georgios , Cardoso Fatima , Kondylakis Haridimos , Kolokotroni Eleni , Kourou Konstantina , Lemos Raquel , Manica Isabel , Manikis George , Marzorati Chiara , Mattson Johanna , Travado Luzia , Tziraki‐Segal Chariklia , Fotiadis Dimitris , Poikonen‐Saksela Paula , Simos Panagiotis ,   BOUNCE consortium
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to describe distinct trajectories of anxiety/depression symptoms and overall health status/quality of life over a period of 18 months following a breast cancer diagnosis, and identify the medical, socio‐demographic, lifestyle, and psychological factors that predict these trajectories.

Methods

474 females (mean age = 55.79 years) were enrolled in the first weeks after surgery or biopsy. Data from seven assessment points over 18 months, at 3‐month intervals, were used. The two outcomes were assessed at all points. Potential predictors were assessed at baseline and the first follow‐up. Machine‐Learning techniques were used to detect latent patterns of change and identify the most important predictors.

Results

Five trajectories were identified for each outcome: stably high, high with fluctuations, recovery, deteriorating/delayed response, and stably poor well‐being (chronic distress). Psychological factors (i.e., negative affect, coping, sense of control, social support), age, and a few medical variables (e.g., symptoms, immune‐related inflammation) predicted patients' participation in the delayed response and the chronic distress trajectories versus all other trajectories.

Conclusions

There is a strong possibility that resilience does not always reflect a stable response pattern, as there might be some interim fluctuations. The use of machine‐learning techniques provides a unique opportunity for the identification of illness trajectories and a shortlist of major bio/behavioral predictors. This will facilitate the development of early interventions to prevent a significant deterioration in patient well‐being.