bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Capacitive-to-Resistive Humidity Response of Polyelectrolyte-Gated Metal Oxide Transistors
Authors: Shao Feng , Hu Shuohao , Huang Wanqing , Sang Xuhui , Liu Shangjian , Wan Xi , Gu Xiaofeng
Published: January 2024

The electrolyte gating of transistors, which directly couples ion transport with electron conduction, is particularly interesting in the field of bio and chemical sensing. When a humidity-sensitive polyelectrolyte is used as the gate dielectric, the resulting ionotronic device becomes a humidity-sensitive transistor providing potential advantages in signal amplification and circuit integration. In this work, a humidity-sensitive polyelectrolyte-gated metal oxide transistor is reported by implementing the capacitive-to-resistive-based sensing mechanism. Due to the correlation between drain current and gate capacitance, the measurement of capacitance or impedance for humidity sensors is converted into the measurement of resistance. Initial sensing studies in the quasi-static DC sensing mode resulted in a limited sensing response. A pulsed sensing mode was proposed to considerably enhance the sensing response I

D,80%RH
/I

D,20%RH
to 861. The response in the specific RH range was also found to be tunable with the applied sensing signal. The underlying mechanism is elucidated with frequency-dependent capacitance and impedance analysis of the gate electrolyte using corresponding equivalent circuit model.
Long-term impact of neuroscience outreach interventions on elementary students’ knowledge
Authors: Neves Ben-Hur Souto Das , Martini Victória Ávila , Fantti Mayúme de Freitas , Mello-Carpes Pâmela Billig
Published: January 2024

This article reports on neuroscience disclosure activities performed with school students and describes their short- and long-term positive impact. Even 1 yr after the activities, students demonstrate knowledge about the themes worked on and satisfaction with the activities.
Loss of the Golgi-localized v-ATPase subunit does not alter insulin granule formation or pancreatic islet β-cell function
Authors: Boyer Cierra K. , Blom Sandra E. , Machado Ashleigh E. , Rohli Kristen E. , Maxson Michelle E. , Stephens Samuel B.
Published: January 2024

Delayed proinsulin export from the Golgi in diabetic β-cells contributes to decreased insulin granule formation, but the underlying mechanisms are not clear. Here, we explored if dysregulation of Golgi pH can alter Golgi function using β-cell specific knockout (KO) of the Golgi-localized subunit of the v-ATPase, v0a2. We show that partial alkalinization of the Golgi dilates the cisternae, but does not affect proinsulin export, insulin granule formation, insulin secretion, or glucose homeostasis.
Mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species contribute to synergistic interaction of diabetes and hypertension in causing chronic kidney injury
Authors: Wang Zhen , Fu Yiling , da Silva Alexandre A. , do Carmo Jussara M. , Mouton Alan , Omoto Ana Carolina M. , Li Xuan , Sears Jaylan , Hall John E.
Published: January 2024

Our study shows that the combination of diabetes (DM) and hypertension (HTN) promoted renal dysfunction, albuminuria, and mitochondrial dysfunction, whereas DM or HTN alone caused only mild kidney injury. Treatment with the specific mitochondria-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO greatly ameliorated renal injury in rats with both DM + HTN. These results suggest that targeting mitochondria-derived ROS may be a potential therapeutic strategy to attenuate the development of kidney injury induced by the combination of DM and HTN.
Latest Advancements in Solar Photovoltaic‐Thermoelectric Conversion Technologies: Thermal Energy Storage Using Phase Change Materials, Machine Learning, and 4E Analyses
Authors: Alghamdi Hisham , Maduabuchi Chika , Okoli Kingsley , Alobaid Mohammad , Alghassab Mohammed , Alsafran Ahmed S. , Makki Emad , Alkhedher Mohammad
Published: January 2024

In recent times, the significance of renewable energy generation has increased and photovoltaic‐thermoelectric (PV‐TE) technologies have emerged as a promising solution. However, the incorporation of these technologies still faces difficulties in energy storage and optimization. This review paper addresses these challenges by providing a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in PV‐TE technologies. The paper emphasizes the integration of phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage, also buttressing the use of encapsulated PCM for thermal storage and efficiency, and the use of hybrid PCM to enhance overall performance. Furthermore, reviews on the use of machine learning techniques for efficient optimization and the integration of thermoelectric modules into tandem perovskite silicon solar cells have been comprehensively analyzed. The advancements in photovoltaic‐thermoelectric systems, as reviewed in this article, signify significant progress in attaining sustainable and effective energy production and storage. This review comprehensively addresses the 4Es, underlining their importance. It not only consolidates recent developments but also charts a path for future research in the field of PV‐TE technologies, offering precise insights to guide upcoming studies and innovations.
A Risk Prediction Model for Adverse Events after Surgical Valve Replacement
Authors: Lian Liyou , Yao Hongxia , Zheng Rujie , Chen Chen
Published: January 2024

Background. Although several risk‐predictive models for patients undergoing surgical valve replacement (SVR) have been published, reports on composite endpoints of adverse events in these patients are limited. This study aimed to establish a novel, easy‐to‐use prognostic prediction model of composite endpoints in patients following SVR. Methods. According to the inclusion criteria, patients with successful SVR were enrolled. Adverse events, including heart failure hospitalization, stroke, major bleeding, uncontrolled infection, secondary surgery, postoperative arrhythmia, and all‐cause mortality during follow‐up, were tracked. All datasets were randomly divided into the derivation and validation cohorts at a ratio of 7 to 3. Logistic regression analysis was used to screen for independent predictors and construct a nomogram for adverse events. We further presented a calibration curve and decision curve analysis for evaluating prediction models. Results. According to the multivariate logistic regression analyses, three variables were selected for the final predictive model, including platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, diabetes mellitus, and albumin. A nomogram was then constructed to present the results. The C‐index of the model was 0.73 (95% confidence interval: 0.65–0.81) for the derivation cohort and 0.75 (95% confidence interval: 0.64–0.86) for the validation cohort. The calibration curve demonstrated that the results of the nomogram agreed with actual observations (Brier score = 0.09). Conclusions. We developed an effective nomogram to predict the occurrence of composite adverse events in patients following SVR. This model could be used to evaluate the mid‐term risks of adverse events as well as provide clinicians and patients with a basis for decision‐making.
MDS and MHDR Cyclic Codes over Finite Chain Rings
Authors: Dalal Monika , Dutt Sucheta , Sehmi Ranjeet
Published: January 2024

This work establishes a unique set of generators for a cyclic code over a finite chain ring. Towards this, we first determine the minimal spanning set and rank of the code. Furthermore, sufficient as well as necessary conditions for a cyclic code to be an MDS code and for a cyclic code to be an MHDR code are obtained. Finally, to support our results, some examples of optimal cyclic codes are presented.
Hybrid RSS–AOA-Based Localization with Unknown Transmit Power in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Ren Ruijie , Yu Jianding , Li Youming , Qi Qinke , Ye Yanhua
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we address the target localization problem based on hybrid range and angle measurements with unknown transmit power in both noncooperative and cooperative scenarios, respectively. By analyzing the approximate expressions of the noise terms in the measurement models, an original nonconvex localization problem is formulated according to the least square criterion. This problem is transformed into a mixed semi-definite programing/second-order cone programing by using convex relaxation techniques. Computer simulation results verify that the proposed algorithm can effectively solve the localization problem with good performance in the unknown transmit power case.
Solvability of a Hadamard Fractional Boundary Value Problem at Resonance on Infinite Domain
Authors: Feng Xingfang , Li Yucheng
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the existence of solutions for Hadamard fractional differential equations with integral boundary conditions at resonance on infinite domain. By constructing two suitable Banach spaces, establishing an appropriate compactness criterion, and defining appropriate projectors, we study an existence theorem upon the coincidence degree theory of Mawhin. An example is given to illustrate our main result.
Optimized Control for MMCs with Reduced Power Loss and Extended Lifetime
Authors: Zhao Jifeng , Pei Jia , Sun Yun , Wang Rujin , Hang Jun , Ding Shichuan
Published: January 2024

Modular multilevel converters (MMCs) are widely applied to medium and high voltage occasions. The total power consumption of the submodule (SM) and the maximum power consumption of power devices in the SM are related to the operating costs and lifetime of the MMC. Existing literature only considers total power loss optimization or maximal power consumption optimization in MMC’s SM. In this article, a reduced loss and extended lifetime power loss optimum control (RLEL-PLOC) is introduced to inject the first-best second harmonic circulation into the MMC’s arm current. Compared with the conventional power loss optimization control, the proposed control could decrease the maximal power consumption of the semiconductor devices without increasing the total loss of the SM. According to study results of the MMC, compared with the circulating current suppression control (CCSC) method, the total power consumption of the SM could be reduced by 4.2% and the maximal power dissipation in the SM could be reduced by 5.4% with RLEL-PLOC. PSCAD simulation and MMC prototype experiment are also carried out, and the research results verified the availability of the put forward RLEL-PLOC for MMCs.
Constructing Perturbation Matrices of Prototypes for Enhancing the Performance of Fuzzy Decoding Mechanism
Authors: Xu Kaijie , E Hanyu , Liu Junliang , Xiao Guoyao , Tang Xiaoan , Xing Mengdao
Published: January 2024

Granular computing (GrC) embraces a spectrum of concepts, methodologies, methods, and applications, which dwells upon information granules and their processing. Fuzzy C-means (FCM) based encoding and decoding (granulation-degranulation) mechanism plays a visible role in granular computing. Fuzzy decoding mechanism, also known as the reconstruction (degranulation) problem, has become an intensively studied category in recent years. This study mainly focuses on the improvement of the fuzzy decoding mechanism, and an augmented version achieved through constructing perturbation matrices of prototypes is put forward. Particle swarm optimization is employed to determine a group of optimal perturbation matrices to optimize the prototype matrix and obtain an optimal partition matrix. A series of experiments are carried out to show the enhancement of the proposed method. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical analysis and demonstrate that the developed method outperforms the traditional FCM-based decoding mechanism.
Weather Variables for Within-Vineyard Awareness of Botrytis Risk
Authors: Evans K. J. , Pirie A. J. G.
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims. Botrytis bunch rot (BBR) in cool temperate climates is a key constraint to the consistent supply of grapes to winery specifications. BBR severities have been correlated with specific environmental conditions; however, data-driven applications intended to support crop protection decisions are restricted in access and/or of unknown commercial value. The aims of this study were to evaluate variables providing within-vineyard awareness of BBR risk in Riesling vines. Methods and Results. Descriptors of BBR epidemics from eight site years, 2009–2014, were developed for vine areas of ∼0.5 ha within two regions of Tasmania with different climates. Two variables using the daily Bacchus index, from crop stage E-L 19 to E-L 31 or 34, accounted for >80% of the variance in the final mean BBR severity. A BBR risk index (BBR-I), incorporating the mean daily Bacchus index from E-L 19 to E-L 31 and the median daily vapour pressure deficit of air at 15 : 00 during the late-season interval, accounted for up to 99.5% of the variance in the final mean BBR severity. The late-season interval (days) or median daily RH (%) at 15:00 in the same period accounted for 86.4 or 83.3% of the variance. Spatial variability of BBR severity mapped in 4.8 ha of Sauvignon Blanc in 2018-19 confirmed the need to apply BBR risk indicators at an appropriate spatial scale. Conclusions. Environmental variables with biological relevance served as indicators of BBR risk at the study sites and have the potential to discriminate BBR risk among production regions in Tasmania. Significance of the Study. Study findings are expected to support the development of applications that raise awareness of BBR risk at an appropriate spatial scale for in-season adaption of crop protection, diagnosis of crop protection efficacy, and/or site selection decisions. Accompanying formulae with sample data in Microsoft® Excel will support transitions to automated data analyses.
Bayes-Decisive Linear KNN with Adaptive Nearest Neighbors
Authors: Zhang Jin , Bian Zekang , Wang Shitong
Published: January 2024

While the classical KNN (k nearest neighbor) shares its avoidance of the consistent distribution assumption between training and testing samples to achieve fast prediction, it still faces two challenges: (a) its generalization ability heavily depends on an appropriate number k of nearest neighbors; (b) its prediction behavior lacks interpretability. In order to address the two challenges, a novel Bayes-decisive linear KNN with adaptive nearest neighbors (i.e., BLA-KNN) is proposed to obtain the following three merits: (a) a diagonal matrix is introduced to adaptively select the nearest neighbors and simultaneously improve the generalization capability of the proposed BLA-KNN method; (b) the proposed BLA-KNN method owns the group effect, which inherits and extends the group property of the sum of squares for total deviations by reflecting the training sample class-aware information in the group effect regularization term; (c) the prediction behavior of the proposed BLA-KNN method can be interpreted from the Bayes-decision-rule perspective. In order to do so, we first use a diagonal matrix to weigh each training sample so as to obtain the importance of the sample, while constraining the importance weights to ensure that the adaptive k value is carried out efficiently. Second, we introduce a class-aware information regularization term in the objective function to obtain the nearest neighbor group effect of the samples. Finally, we introduce linear expression weights related to the distance measure between the testing and training samples in the regularization term to ensure that the interpretation of Bayes-decision-rule can be performed smoothly. We also optimize the proposed objective function using an alternating optimization strategy. We experimentally demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed BLA-KNN method by comparing it with 7 comparative methods on 15 benchmark datasets.
A Study of Racket Weight Adaptation in Advanced and Beginner Badminton Players
Authors: Pan Zhengye , Liu Lushuai , Li Xingman , Ma Yunchao
Published: January 2024

The jump smash is the most aggressive manoeuvre in badminton. Racket parameters may be the key factor affecting the performance of jump smash. Previous studies have focused only on the biomechanical characteristics of athletes or on racket parameters in isolation, with less observation of the overall performance of the human-racket system. This study aims to explore the effects of different racket weights on neuromuscular control strategies in advanced and beginner players. Nonnegative matrix factorisation (NMF) was used to extract the muscle synergies of players when jumping smash using different rackets (3U, 5U), and K-means clustering was used to obtain the fundamental synergies. Uncontrolled manifold (UCM) analyses were used to establish links between synergy and motor performance, and surface electromyography (sEMG) was mapped to each spinal cord segment. The study found significant differences (P <0.05) in the postural muscles of skilled players and significant differences (P <0.001) in the upper-limb muscles of beginners when the racket weight was increased. Advanced players adapt to the increase in racket weight primarily by adjusting the timing of the activation of the third synergy. Combined synergy in advanced players is mainly focused on the backswing, while that in beginners is mainly focused on the frontswing. This suggests that advanced players may be more adept at utilising the postural muscles and their coordination with the upper-limb muscles to adapt to different rackets. In addition, the motor experience can help athletes adapt more quickly to heavier rackets, and this adaptation occurs primarily by adjusting the temporal phase and covariation characteristics of the synergies rather than by increasing the number of synergies.
A Direct Infection Risk Model for CFD Predictions and Its Application to SARS‐CoV‐2 Aircraft Cabin Transmission
Authors: Webner Florian , Shishkin Andrei , Schmeling Daniel , Wagner Claus
Published: January 2024

Current models to determine the risk of airborne disease infection are typically based on a backward quantification of observed infections, leading to uncertainties, e.g., due to the lack of knowledge whether the index person was a superspreader. In contrast, the present work presents a forward infection risk model that calculates the inhaled dose of infectious virus based on the virus emission rate of an emitter and a prediction of Lagrangian particle trajectories using CFD, taking both the residence time of individual particles and the biodegradation rate into account. The estimation of the dose‐response is then based on data from human challenge studies. Considering the available data for SARS‐CoV‐2 from the literature, it is shown that the model can be used to estimate the risk of infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 in the cabin of a Do728 single‐aisle aircraft. However, the virus emission rate during normal breathing varies between different studies and also by about two orders of magnitude within one and the same study. A sensitivity analysis shows that the uncertainty in the input parameters leads to uncertainty in the prediction of the infection risk, which is between 0 and 12 infections among 70 passengers. This highlights the importance and challenges in terms of superspreaders for risk prediction, which are difficult to capture using standard backward calculations. Further, biological inactivation was found to have no significant impact on the risk of infection for SARS‐CoV‐2 in the considered aircraft cabin.
Comprehensive Assessment of the Seismic Performance of an Innovative Hybrid Semiactive and Passive State Control System for a Low‐Degree‐of‐Freedom Structure Using Real‐Time Hybrid Simulation
Authors: Castillo Bryan , Ceron Diego F. , Vides Sharick M. , Marulanda Johannio , Thomson Peter
Published: January 2024

The dynamic performance of base isolation systems provides an effective means to reduce the seismic vulnerability of buildings. However, large displacements in the base isolation during seismic events pose a major challenge for this control system. Recently, novel control systems have been implemented to control and reduce the excessive displacements. This study presents an evaluation of the seismic performance of unconnected‐fiber‐reinforced elastomeric isolators (U‐FREI) and variable orifice damper (VOD) devices used together as a hybrid control system for a low‐degree‐of‐freedom reference structure by employing real‐time hybrid simulation (RTHS) testing technique. This physical cybernetic testing methodology allows a dynamic system of interest to be substructured into two components: numerical and experimental. In this study, the numerical substructure corresponds to a 2‐degree of freedom model, representing a reference structure, and an experimental substructure was formed using the hybrid control system described. To develop an interface between the two substructures, a horizontal transfer system (HTS) was implemented and coupled with a vertical transfer system (VTS). Using RTHS, the performance of the reference structure and the hybrid control system was evaluated under six seismic events: CAM, CAT, El Centro, Loma Prieta, Pizarro, and Chihuahua, at a maximum acceleration of 0.10 g (0.981 m·s−2). The experimental behavior of the hybrid control system allows the reference structure to reduce its maximum drift by more than 24% compared to the fixed structure. Finally, the performance and accuracy of the RTHS tests were calculated.
Eyes Wide Open: Sleep as a Potential Contributor to Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Cancer
Authors: Barber Lauren E. , McCullough Lauren E. , Johnson Dayna A.
Published: January 2024

U.S. racial and ethnic minoritized groups face disproportionate cancer burdens compared to White Americans. Investigating modifiable factors, such as sleep, that are socially patterned and inequitably distributed by race and ethnicity may advance understanding of cancer disparities and provide intervention opportunities. Emerging data suggest poor sleep health is associated with cancer. Yet, its contribution to racial and ethnic cancer disparities is understudied. In this narrative review, we explored the sleep–cancer relation through a disparities lens. We (i) summarized literature reporting on associations between sleep and cancer among racial and ethnic minority populations; (ii) examined potential sleep–cancer mechanisms; and (iii) discussed future directions. We identified five studies reporting on sleep–cancer associations among minoritized groups. Poor sleep health was associated with aggressive breast cancer among Black women, increased breast cancer risk among Asian women, and increased risk of breast and total cancer among Hispanic/Latinx Americans. Sleep and cancer disparities have similar socioeconomic and behavioral determinants, suggesting racial and ethnic minoritized groups may be vulnerable to poor sleep health and its adverse health impacts. Evidence indicates that the sleep–cancer disparities relation is an emerging, but important area of research that warrants further investigation, as sleep may be an avenue for reducing cancer disparities.
Data from Neurotransmitter Substance P Mediates Pancreatic Cancer Perineural Invasion via NK-1R in Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Xuqi , Ma Guodong , Ma Qingyong , Li Wei , Liu Jiangbo , Han Liang , Duan Wanxing , Xu Qinhong , Liu Han , Wang Zheng , Sun Qing , Wang Fengfei , Wu Erxi
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Pancreatic cancer significantly affects the quality of life due to the severe abdominal pain. However, the underlying mechanism is not clear. This study aimed to determine the relationship between Substance P (SP) and pancreatic cancer perineural invasion (PNI) as well as the mechanism of SP mediating pancreatic cancer PNI, which causes pain in patients with pancreatic cancer. Human pancreatic cancer cells and newborn dorsal root ganglions (DRG) were used to determine the expression of SP or NK-1R in pancreatic cancer cells and DRGs cells by QT-PCR and Western blotting. The effects of SP on pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and invasion were analyzed using MTT assay and Transwell Matrigel invasion assay, respectively. Alterations in the neurotropism of pancreatic cancer cells were assessed by coculture system, which mimics the interaction of tumor/neuron in vivo. SP is not only widely distributed in the neurite outgrowth from newborn DRGs but also expressed in MIA PaCa-2 and BxPC-3 cells. NK-1R is found to be overexpressed in the pancreatic cancer cell lines examined. SP induces cancer cell proliferation and invasion as well as the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 in pancreatic cancer cells, and NK-1R antagonists inhibit these effects. Furthermore, SP promotes neurite outgrowth and the migration of pancreatic cancer cell cluster to the DRGs, which is blocked by NK-1R antagonists in the coculture model. Our results suggest that SP plays an important role in the development of pancreatic cancer metastasis and PNI, and blocking the SP/NK-1R signaling system is a novel strategy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 11(3); 294–302. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Activation of the Wnt Pathway through AR79, a GSK3β Inhibitor, Promotes Prostate Cancer Growth in Soft Tissue and Bone
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Dai Jinlu , Zhang Honglai , Sottnik Joe L. , Keller Jill M. , Escott Katherine J. , Sanganee Hitesh J. , Yao Zhi , McCauley Laurie K. , Keller Evan T.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Due to its bone anabolic activity, methods to increase Wnt activity, such as inhibitors of dickkopf-1 and sclerostin, are being clinically explored. Glycogen synthase kinase (GSK3β) inhibits Wnt signaling by inducing β-catenin degradation, and a GSK3β inhibitor, AR79, is being evaluated as an osteoanabolic agent. However, Wnt activation has the potential to promote tumor growth; therefore, the goal of this study was to determine if AR79 has an impact on the progression of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer tumors were established in subcutaneous and bone sites of mice followed by AR79 administration, and tumor growth, β-catenin activation, proliferation, and apoptosis were assessed. Additionally, prostate cancer and osteoblast cell lines were treated with AR79, and β-catenin status, proliferation (with β-catenin knockdown in some cases), and proportion of ALDH+CD133+ stem-like cells were determined. AR79 promoted prostate cancer tumor growth, decreased phospho-β-catenin, increased total and nuclear β-catenin, and increased tumor-induced bone remodeling. Additionally, AR79 treatment decreased caspase-3 and increased Ki67 expression in tumors and increased bone formation in normal mouse tibiae. Similarly, AR79 inhibited β-catenin phosphorylation, increased nuclear β-catenin accumulation in prostate cancer and osteoblast cell lines, and increased proliferation of prostate cancer cells in vitro through β-catenin. Furthermore, AR79 increased the ALDH+CD133+ cancer stem cell–like proportion of the prostate cancer cell lines. In conclusion, AR79, while being bone anabolic, promotes prostate cancer cell growth through Wnt pathway activation.

Implications: These data suggest that clinical application of pharmaceuticals that promote Wnt pathway activation should be used with caution as they may enhance tumor growth. Mol Cancer Res; 11(12); 1597–610. ©2013 AACR.
Data from High-Throughput Drug Screen Identifies Chelerythrine as a Selective Inducer of Death in a TSC2-null Setting
Authors: Medvetz Doug , Sun Yang , Li Chenggang , Khabibullin Damir , Balan Murugabaskar , Parkhitko Andrey , Priolo Carmen , Asara John M. , Pal Soumitro , Yu Jane , Henske Elizabeth P.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant syndrome associated with tumors of the brain, heart, kidney, and lung. The TSC protein complex inhibits the mammalian or mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Inhibitors of mTORC1, including rapamycin, induce a cytostatic response in TSC tumors, resulting in temporary disease stabilization and prompt regrowth when treatment is stopped. The lack of TSC-specific cytotoxic therapies represents an important unmet clinical need. Using a high-throughput chemical screen in TSC2-deficient, patient-derived cells, we identified a series of molecules antagonized by rapamycin and therefore selective for cells with mTORC1 hyperactivity. In particular, the cell-permeable alkaloid chelerythrine induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depleted glutathione (GSH) selectively in TSC2-null cells based on metabolic profiling. N-acetylcysteine or GSH cotreatment protected TSC2-null cells from chelerythrine's effects, indicating that chelerythrine-induced cell death is ROS dependent. Induction of heme-oxygenase-1 (HMOX1/HO-1) with hemin also blocked chelerythrine-induced cell death. In vivo, chelerythrine inhibited the growth of TSC2-null xenograft tumors with no evidence of systemic toxicity with daily treatment over an extended period of time. This study reports the results of a bioactive compound screen and the identification of a potential lead candidate that acts via a novel oxidative stress–dependent mechanism to selectively induce necroptosis in TSC2-deficient tumors.

Implications: This study demonstrates that TSC2-deficient tumor cells are hypersensitive to oxidative stress–dependent cell death, and provide critical proof of concept that TSC2-deficient cells can be therapeutically targeted without the use of a rapalog to induce a cell death response. Mol Cancer Res; 13(1); 50–62. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Survival Outcome and EMT Suppression Mediated by a Lectin Domain Interaction of Endo180 and CD147
Authors: Rodriguez-Teja Mercedes , Gronau Julian H. , Minamidate Ai , Darby Steven , Gaughan Luke , Robson Craig , Mauri Francesco , Waxman Jonathan , Sturge Justin
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Epithelial cell–cell contacts maintain normal glandular tissue homeostasis, and their breakage can trigger epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a fundamental step in the development of metastatic cancer. Despite the ability of C-type lectin domains (CTLD) to modulate cell–cell adhesion, it is not known if they modulate epithelial adhesion in EMT and tumor progression. Here, the multi-CTLD mannose receptor, Endo180 (MRC2/uPARAP), was shown using the Kaplan–Meier analysis to be predictive of survival outcome in men with early prostate cancer. A proteomic screen of novel interaction partners with the fourth CTLD (CTLD4) in Endo180 revealed that its complex with CD147 is indispensable for the stability of three-dimensional acini formed by nontransformed prostate epithelial cells (PEC). Mechanistic study using knockdown of Endo180 or CD147, and treatment with an Endo180 mAb targeting CTLD4 (clone 39.10), or a dominant-negative GST-CTLD4 chimeric protein, induced scattering of PECs associated with internalization of Endo180 into endosomes, loss of E-cadherin (CDH1/ECAD), and unzipping of cell–cell junctions. These findings are the first to demonstrate that a CTLD acts as a suppressor and regulatory switch for EMT; thus, positing that stabilization of Endo180–CD147 complex is a viable therapeutic strategy to improve rates of prostate cancer survival.

Implications: This study identifies the interaction between CTLD4 in Endo180 and CD147 as an EMT suppressor and indicates that stabilization of this molecular complex improves prostate cancer survival rates.

Visual Overview: http://mcr.aacrjournals.org/content/13/3/538/F1.large.jpg

Mol Cancer Res; 13(3); 538–47. ©2014 AACR.
The Past and Future of Inflammation as a Target to Cancer Prevention
Authors: Antonucci Laura , Karin Michael
Published: January 2024

Inflammation is an essential defense mechanism in which innate immune cells are coordinately activated on encounter of harmful stimuli, including pathogens, tissue injury, and toxic compounds and metabolites to neutralize and eliminate the instigator and initiate healing and regeneration. Properly terminated inflammation is vital to health, but uncontrolled runaway inflammation that becomes chronic begets a variety of inflammatory and metabolic diseases and increases cancer risk. Making damaged tissues behave as “wounds that do not heal” and sustaining the production of growth factors whose physiologic function is tissue healing, chronic inflammation accelerates cancer emergence from premalignant lesions. In 1863, Rudolf Virchow, a leading German pathologist, suggested a possible association between inflammation and tumor formation, but it took another 140 years to fully elucidate and appreciate the tumorigenic role of inflammation. Key findings outlined molecular events in the inflammatory cascade that promote cancer onset and progression and enabled a better appreciation of when and where inflammation should be inhibited. These efforts triggered ongoing research work to discover and develop inflammation-reducing chemopreventive strategies for decreasing cancer risk and incidence.
Depression in Women: Potential Biological and Sociocultural Factors Driving the Sex Effect
Authors: Di Benedetto Maria Grazia , Landi Paola , Mencacci Claudio , Cattaneo Annamaria
Published: January 2024

Important sex-related differences have been observed in the onset, prevalence, and clinical phenotype of depression, based on several epidemiological studies. Social, behavioural, and educational factors have a great role in underlying this bias; however, also several biological factors are extensively involved. Indeed, sexually dimorphic biological systems might represent the underlying ground for these disparities, including cerebral structures and neural correlates, reproductive hormones, stress response pathways, the immune system and inflammatory reaction, metabolism, and fat distribution. Furthermore, in this perspective, it is also important to consider and focus the attention on specific ages and life stages of individuals: indeed, women experience during their life specific periods of reproductive transitional phases, which are not found in men, that represent windows of particular psychological vulnerability. In addition to these, other biologically related risk factors, including the occurrence of sleep disturbances and the exposure to childhood trauma, which are found to differentially affect men and women, are also putative underlying mechanisms of the clinical bias of depression. Overall, by taking into account major differences which characterize men and women it might be possible to improve the diagnostic process, as well as treat more efficiently depressed individuals, based on a more personalized medicine and research.
Genome-Wide Genetic Associations Prioritize Evaluation of Causal Mechanisms of Atherosclerotic Disease Risk
Authors: Quertermous Thomas , Li Daniel Yuhang , Weldy Chad S. , Ramste Markus , Sharma Disha , Monteiro João P. , Gu Wenduo , Worssam Matthew D. , Palmisano Brian T. , Park Chong Y. , Cheng Paul
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this review is to discuss the implementation of genome-wide association studies to identify causal mechanisms of vascular disease risk.

APPROACH AND RESULTS:

The history of genome-wide association studies is described, the use of imputation and the creation of consortia to conduct meta-analyses with sufficient power to arrive at consistent associated loci for vascular disease. Genomic methods are described that allow the identification of causal variants and causal genes and how they impact the disease process. The power of single-cell analyses to promote genome-wide association studies of causal gene function is described.

CONCLUSIONS:

Genome-wide association studies represent a paradigm shift in the study of cardiovascular disease, providing identification of genes, cellular phenotypes, and disease pathways that empower the future of targeted drug development.
Food Intake Suppresses ApoB Secretion and Fractional Catabolic Rates in Humans
Authors: Zheng Chunyu , Andraski Allison B. , Khoo Christina , Furtado Jeremy D. , Sacks Frank M.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Humans spend much of the day in the postprandial state. However, most research and clinical guidelines on plasma lipids pertain to blood drawn after a 12-hour fast. We aimed to study the metabolic differences of apoB lipoproteins between the fasting and postprandial states.

METHODS:

We investigated plasma apoB metabolism using stable isotope tracers in 12 adult volunteers under fasting and continuous postprandial conditions in a randomized crossover study. We determined the metabolism of apoB in multiple lipoprotein subfractions, including light and dense VLDLs (very-low-density lipoproteins), IDLs (intermediate-density lipoproteins), and light and dense LDLs (low-density lipoproteins) that do or do not contain apoE or apoC3.

RESULTS:

A major feature of the postprandial state is 50% lower secretion rate of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and concurrent slowdown of their catabolism in circulation, as shown by 34% to 55% lower rate constants for the metabolic pathways of conversion by lipolysis from larger to smaller lipoproteins and direct clearance of lipoproteins from the circulation. In addition, the secretion pattern of apoB lipoprotein phenotypes was shifted from particles containing apoE and apoC3 in the fasting state to those without either protein in the postprandial state.

CONCLUSIONS:

Overall, during the fasting state, hepatic apoB lipoprotein metabolism is activated, characterized by increased production, transport, and clearance. After food intake, endogenous apoB lipoprotein metabolism is globally reduced as appropriate to balance dietary input to maintain the supply of energy to peripheral tissues.
Precise and rapid whole-head segmentation from magnetic resonance
images of older adults using deep learning
Authors: Stolte Skylar E. , Indahlastari Aprinda , Chen Jason , Albizu Alejandro , Dunn Ayden , Pedersen Samantha , See Kyle B. , Woods Adam J. , Fang Ruogu
Published: January 2024

Whole-head segmentation from Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI) establishes the foundation for individualized computational models using finite element method (FEM). This foundation paves the path for computer-aided solutions in fields such as non-invasive brain stimulation. Most current automatic head segmentation tools are developed using healthy young adults. Thus, they may neglect the older population that is more prone to age-related structural decline such as brain atrophy. In this work, we present a new deep learning method called GRACE, which stands for General, Rapid, And Comprehensive whole-hEad tissue segmentation. GRACE is trained and validated on a novel dataset that consists of 177 manually corrected MR-derived reference segmentations that have undergone meticulous manual review. Each T1-weighted MRI volume is segmented into 11 tissue types, including white matter, grey matter, eyes, cerebrospinal fluid, air, blood vessel, cancellous bone, cortical bone, skin, fat, and muscle. To the best of our knowledge, this work contains the largest manually corrected dataset to date in terms of number of MRIs and segmented tissues. GRACE outperforms five freely available software tools and a traditional 3D U-Net on a five-tissue segmentation task. On this task, GRACE achieves an average Hausdorff Distance of 0.21, which exceeds the runner-up at an average Hausdorff Distance of 0.36. GRACE can segment a whole-head MRI in about 3 seconds, while the fastest software tool takes about 3 minutes. In summary, GRACE segments a spectrum of tissue types from older adults’ T1-MRI scans at favorable accuracy and speed. The trained GRACE model is optimized on older adult heads to enable high-precision modeling in age-related brain disorders. To support open science, the GRACE code and trained weights are made available online and open to the research community at https://github.com/lab-smile/GRACE.
Aristotle on Softness and Endurance: Nicomachean Ethics 7.7, 1150a9–b19
Authors: Marechal Patricia
Published: January 2024

In Nicomachean Ethics 7.7 (= Eudemian Ethics 6.7), Aristotle distinguishes softness (malakia) from lack of self-control (akrasia) and endurance (karteria) from self-control (enkrateia). This paper argues that unqualified softness consists of a disposition to give up acting to avoid the painful toil (ponos) required to execute practical resolutions, and (coincidentally) to enjoy the pleasures of rest and relaxation. The enduring person, in contrast, persists in her commitments despite the painful effort required to enact them. Along the way, I argue that this interpretation qualifies our understanding of the pleasures and pains with which temperance and intemperance are concerned.
Description of Deladenus tonekabonensis sp. n. from Iran with a key to species
Authors: Aliramaji Farzad , Taheri Abdolhossein , Shokoohi Ebrahim
Published: January 2024

Deladenus tonekabonensis sp. n. was isolated from dried wood of the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) from the Sehezar forests in Tonekabon city in Mazandaran Province. The new species is characterised by a body length of 655 (561-777) and 592 (488-735) μm for mycetophagous females and males, respectively, a short stylet (7.5-8.8 μm) with three knobs backward. Lateral field with ten incisures, and an excretory pore toward the anterior part of the neck, located at 27.5 (22.0-35.5) and 28.0 (21.0-38.0) μm from the anterior end of the mycetophagous females and males, respectively. The distance of the excretory pore to the hemizonid is 66.0 (59.0-71.0) and 61.0 (57.0-67.5) μm for the mycetophagous females and males, respectively. Adults have a long overlapping dorsal pharyngeal gland, lacking a post-uterine sac (PUS), and in some specimens a very short post-uterine sac, 2.4-5.1 μm long, and a conical tail, narrowing towards the tail tip. Males are frequent with slender tylenchoid spicules and a leptoderan bursa reaching the tail tip. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on 28S rDNA placed the new species close to Deladenus and Anguillonema species in a clade with 0.99 posterior probability support. The measurements, line illustration and light microphotographs are given for the new species.
Feeding behaviour and food choice in three populations of the millipede Glomeris hexasticha Brandt, 1833 (Diplopoda: Glomerida: Glomeridae): intra- and interpopulation laboratory study
Authors: Vujić Vukica D. , Ilić Bojan S. , Jovanović Zvezdana S. , Milovanović Jelena Z. , Dudić Boris D. , Lučić Luka R. , Pavković-Lučić Sofija B.
Published: January 2024

Foraging behaviour, determined by both internal and external factors, requires investment of time and energy. Optimizing the nutritional decisions also influences efficiency during the feeding process and fitness. Feeding behaviour has been poorly investigated in millipedes. Hence, the aims of this study were to test food choice and to explore intra- and interpopulation variability in several sequences of feeding behaviour in millipede Glomeris hexasticha Brandt, 1833 under laboratory conditions. Individuals of G. hexasticha and leaf litter were collected from three populations within Belgrade, Serbia. A feeding experiment was conducted using a cross-shaped experimental maze with oak leaves, small-leaved linden leaves, and moss as potential food sources. The individuals most often chose oak leaves, subsequently moss, while linden leaves were the least preferred. Sexual dimorphism was detected only for the average time spent in maze arms that contained food items in the Ada New Belgrade population and the Hyde Park population. Intrapopulation differences that depended on feeding status and interpopulation differences in some behavioural sequences were detected. We assume that sexual dimorphism in most of the analysed behavioural traits was not detected, because both sexes had to satisfy basic nutritive requirements after the same starvation period. However, research timing may be responsible, at least partially, for the obtained results. Repeating experiments in different periods of the year or using more fresh food or food sources in different phases of the decomposition may give different results. Further, in our experimental design, some unknown preference towards particular maze arms could not be completely excluded.
Mapping the Bencao
Authors: Stanley-Baker Michael
Published: January 2024

This article uses GIS mapping to plot the historical locations known for producing Chinese material medica recorded in a text with three historical layers. On the basis of these plots, it argues that: early Chinese pharmacology emerged not from the central plains but along the Yellow River Corridor, from the Bohai Sea through to Chang’an and then beyond, into the Sichuan Plain, and that the drug exchange network may have emerged through stepwise local trading between these sites, as along the Silk Road; these sites are not necessarily biotopes specific to where the drugs grow, but sites of “drug production,” which enter these natural products into circulation; the activity at these sites consists of sociotechnical operations that translate these materials across diverse technical domains, facilitated by drug names as a key marker; and, finally, that comparing these geolocated drug names to terms within excavated recipe literature may indicate a likelihood of the regional origin of certain texts. The Tianhui recipes from Laoguanshan appear to be representative of local drug cultures from northeast China.
Exploring Risk and Protective Factors for Child Harm Amidst Exposure to Inter-parental Violence
Authors: Minanago Chitegetse A. , Crutzen Rik , van den Borne Hubertus , Kaaya Sylvia F.
Published: January 2024

There are limited insights into the differences in perspective between children and adult key-informants on the risk and protective factors for child harm from exposure to inter-parental violence. These differences were explored to inform the development of interventions to decrease levels of child harm. A phenomenological approach guided data collection the Social Construction of Reality Perspective was used to explain the study findings. Thirteen children aged 9–12 years and eight adult key-informants were purposively sampled for interviews. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach. Parental behavior and culture were reported as risk factors for child harm and, supportive social networks and intimacy as the protective factors. The main distinctions between children’s and adult key-informants’ perspectives lie on the nature of the reported factors, participants’ views on vulnerability, and their cognitive ability. Accommodating children’s perspectives in intervention development is crucial for sustainability and reducing risk while enhancing protective factors in interventions.
Xenophobic Assaults and the South African Economy and Society Since 1994
Authors: Ityonzughul Thaddeus T. , Gbamwuan Asor
Published: January 2024

Xenophobia is not a recent theme in historical studies. However, the attempts penned by academics to analyze the phenomenon are sparsely centered on the economic aspect of the assault. In this way, the study fills a historical gap accentuated by extant literature on the subject. Using primary sources in corroboration with secondary sources of data, the study attempts a description of the South African economy and the migrations and roles of different races to South Africa to enhance comprehension. It posits that competition for limited resources between the natives and immigrants from other countries results in xenophobic violence. It is said that xenophobic incidents in South Africa have negatively affected the country’s trade ties with the impacted nations. In actuality, it has diminished the communities and the victims’ economic power. The eradication of xenophobic assaults in the region under study is finally predicted. The article concludes that xenophobia has damaged South Africa’s reputation in international forums.