bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The new preservative-free ophthalmic formulation of bilastine 0.6% preserves the ocular surface epithelial integrity in a comparative in vitro study
Authors: Arana Eider , Gonzalo Ana , Andollo Noelia , Goñi-de-Cerio Felipe , Gómez-Fernández Paloma , Salado Clarisa , Hernández Gonzalo , Suárez-Cortés Tatiana
Published: April 2024

Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is the most common form of allergic eye disease and an increasingly prevalent condition. Topical eye drop treatments are the usual approach for managing AC, although their impact on the ocular surface is not frequently investigated. The aim of this study was to perform a comparative physicochemical characterization, and in vitro biological evaluations in primary conjunctival and corneal epithelial cells of the new multidose preservative-free bilastine 0.6% and main commercially available eye drops. MTT assay was used to measure cell viability; oxidative stress was analyzed with a ROS-sensitive probe; and apoptosis was evaluated monitoring caspase 3/7 activation. Differences in pH value, osmolarity, viscosity and phosphate levels were identified. Among all formulations, bilastine exhibited pH, osmolarity and viscosity values closer to tear film (7.4, 300 mOsm/l and ~ 1.5–10 mPa·s, respectively), and was the only phosphates-free solution. Single-dose ketotifen did not induce ROS production, and single-dose azelastine and bilastine only induced a mild increase. Bilastine and single-dose ketotifen and azelastine showed high survival rates attributable to the absence of preservative in its formulation, not inducing caspase-3/7-mediated apoptosis after 24 h. Our findings support the use of the new bilastine 0.6% for treating patients with AC to preserve and maintain the integrity of the ocular surface.
Assessing and forecasting collective urban heat exposure with smart city digital twins
Authors: Pan Xiyu , Mavrokapnidis Dimitris , Ly Hoang T. , Mohammadi Neda , Taylor John E.
Published: April 2024

Due to population growth, climate change, and the urban heat island effect, heat exposure is becoming an important issue faced by urban built environments. Heat exposure assessment is a prerequisite for mitigation measures to reduce the impact of heat exposure. However, there is limited research on urban heat exposure assessment approaches that provides fine-scale spatiotemporal heat exposure information, integrated with meteorological status and human collective exposure as they move about in cities, to enable proactive heat exposure mitigation measures. Smart city digital twins (SCDTs) provide a new potential avenue for addressing this gap, enabling fine spatiotemporal scales, human-infrastructure interaction modeling, and predictive and decision support capabilities. This study aims to develop and test an SCDT for collective urban heat exposure assessment and forecasting. Meteorological sensors and computer vision techniques were implemented in Columbus, Georgia, to acquire temperature, humidity, and passersby count data. These data were then integrated into a collective temperature humidity index. A time-series prediction model and a crowd simulation were employed to predict future short-term heat exposures based on the data accumulated by this SCDT and to support heat exposure mitigation efforts. The results demonstrate the potential of SCDT to enhance public safety by providing city officials with a tool for discovering, predicting, and, ultimately, mitigating community exposure to extreme heat.
Effects of microbiome-based interventions on neurodegenerative diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chui Zara Siu Wa , Chan Lily Man Lee , Zhang Esther Wan Hei , Liang Suisha , Choi Edmond Pui Hang , Lok Kris Yuet Wan , Tun Hein Min , Kwok Jojo Yan Yan
Published: April 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are characterized by neuronal damage and progressive loss of neuron function. Microbiome-based interventions, such as dietary interventions, biotics, and fecal microbiome transplant, have been proposed as a novel approach to managing symptoms and modulating disease progression. Emerging clinical trials have investigated the efficacy of interventions modulating the GM in alleviating or reversing disease progression, yet no comprehensive synthesis have been done. A systematic review of the literature was therefore conducted to investigate the efficacy of microbiome-modulating methods. The search yielded 4051 articles, with 15 clinical trials included. The overall risk of bias was moderate in most studies. Most microbiome-modulating interventions changed the GM composition. Despite inconsistent changes in GM composition, the meta-analysis showed that microbiome-modulating interventions improved disease burden (SMD, − 0.57; 95% CI − 0.93 to − 0.21; I2 = 42%; P = 0.002) with a qualitative trend of improvement in constipation. However, current studies have high methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes, requiring more well-designed and controlled studies to elucidate the complex linkage between microbiome, microbiome-modulating interventions, and NDDs.
Deep convolutional generative adversarial network for generation of computed tomography images of discontinuously carbon fiber reinforced polymer microstructures
Authors: Blarr Juliane , Klinder Steffen , Liebig Wilfried V. , Inal Kaan , Kärger Luise , Weidenmann Kay A.
Published: April 2024

Computed tomography images are of utmost importance when characterizing the heterogeneous and complex microstructure of discontinuously fiber reinforced polymers. However, the devices are expensive and the scans are time- and energy-intensive. Through recent advances in generative adversarial networks, the instantaneous generation of endless numbers of images that are representative of the input images and hold physical significance becomes possible. Hence, this work presents a deep convolutional generative adversarial network trained on approximately 30,000 input images from carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 computed tomography scans. The challenge lies in the low contrast between the two constituents caused by the close proximity of the density of polyamide 6 and carbon fibers as well as the small fiber diameter compared to the necessary resolution of the images. In addition, the stochastic, heterogeneous microstructure does not follow any logical or predictable rules exacerbating their generation. The quality of the images generated by the trained network of 256 pixel $$\times$$
×
256 pixel was investigated through the Fréchet inception distance and nearest neighbor considerations based on Euclidean distance and structural similarity index measure. Additional visual qualitative assessment ensured the realistic depiction of the complex mixed single fiber and fiber bundle structure alongside flow-related physically feasible positioning of the fibers in the polymer. The authors foresee additionally huge potential in creating three-dimensional representative volume elements typically used in composites homogenization.
Enhancement of superconductivity and phase diagram of Ta-doped Kagome superconductor CsV3Sb5
Authors: Liu Jinjin , Li Qing , Li Yongkai , Fan Xinwei , Li Jun , Zhu Peng , Deng Hanbin , Yin Jia-Xin , Yang Huaixin , Li Jianqi , Wen Hai-Hu , Wang Zhiwei
Published: April 2024

Kagome superconductors AV3Sb5 (A = K, Rb, and Cs) have attracted enormous interest due to the coexistence of charge density wave (CDW) order, unconventional superconductivity (SC) and anomalous Hall effect (AHE). In this paper, we reported an intensive investigation on Cs(V1−xTax)3Sb5 single crystals with systematic Ta doping. Ta was confirmed to be doped into V-site in the Kagome layer from both single crystal X-ray diffraction structural refinement and scanning transmission electron microscopy observation. The highest Ta doping level was found to be about 16%, which is more than twice as much as 7% in Nb-doped CsV3Sb5. With the increase of Ta doping, CDW order was gradually suppressed and finally vanished when the doping level reached to more than 8%. Meanwhile, superconductivity was enhanced with a maximum critical temperature (Tc) of 5.3 K, which is the highest Tc in the bulk crystal of this Kagome system at ambient pressure so far. The μ0Hc2(T) behavior demonstrates that the system is still a two-band superconductor after Ta doping. Based on the electrical transport measurement, a phase diagram was set up to exhibit the evolution of CDW and SC in the Cs(V1−xTax)3Sb5 system. These findings pave a new way to search for new superconductors with higher Tc in the AV3Sb5 family and establish a new platform for tuning and controlling the multiple orders and superconducting states.
Retinal and choroidal efficacy of switching treatment to faricimab in recalcitrant neovascular age related macular degeneration
Authors: Eckardt Franziska , Lorger Anna , Hafner Michael , Klaas Julian Elias , Schworm Benedikt , Kreutzer Thomas Christian , Priglinger Siegfried Georg , Siedlecki Jakob
Published: April 2024

Aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of switching treatment to faricimab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) from other anti-VEGF agents. Fifty-eight eyes of fifty-one patients with nAMD and a full upload series of four faricimab injections were included. Demographic data, multimodal imaging and treatment parameters were recorded. The primary outcome measures were changes in central subfield thickness (CST) and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT). A subgroup analysis was performed for eyes with prior ranibizumab (R) or aflibercept (A) treatment. Mean injection intervals before and after switching were comparable (33.8 ± 11.2 vs. 29.3 ± 2.6 days; p = 0.08). Mean CST of 361.4 ± 108.1 µm prior to switching decreased significantly to 318.3 ± 97.7 µm (p < 0.01) after the third faricimab injection, regardless of prior anti-VEGF treatment (p < 0.01). Although SFCT slightly improved for the whole cohort from 165.8 ± 76.8 µm to 161.0 ± 82,8 µm (p = 0.029), subgroup analysis did not confirm this positive effect (subgroup R: p = 0.604; subgroup A: p = 0.306). In patients with a suboptimal response to aflibercept or ranibizumab in nAMD, farcimab can improve CST and slightly improve or maintain SFCT. Further prospective randomized trials are warranted.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties of indanone derivative isolated from Fernandoa adenophylla in vitro and in silico studies
Authors: Rauf Abdur , Rashid Umer , Shah Zafar Ali , Khalil Anees Ahmed , Shah Muhammad , Tufail Tabussam , Rehman Gauhar , Rahman Abdur , Naz Saima , Alsahammari Abdulrahman , Alharbi Metab , AL-Shahrani Abdulmajeed , Formanowicz Dorota
Published: April 2024

Fernandoa adenophylla, due to the presence of phytochemicals, has various beneficial properties and is used in folk medicine to treat many conditions. This study aimed to isolate indanone derivative fromF. adenophyllaroot heartwood and assess in-vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic characteristics at varying concentrations. Heat-induced hemolysis and glucose uptake by yeast cells assays were conducted to evaluate these properties. Besides, docking analyses were performed on four molecular targets. These studies were combined with molecular dynamics simulations to elucidate the time-evolving inhibitory effect of selected inhibitors within the active pockets of the target proteins (COX-1 and COX-2). Indanone derivative (10–100 µM) inhibited the lysis of human red blood cells from 9.12 ± 0.75 to 72.82 ± 4.36% and, at 5–100 µM concentrations, it significantly increased the yeast cells’ glucose uptake (5.16 ± 1.28% to 76.59 ± 1.62%). Concluding, the isolated indanone might act as an anti-diabetic agent by interacting with critical amino acid residues of 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and it showed a binding affinity with anti-inflammatory targets COX-1, COX-2, and TNF-α. Besides, the obtained results may help to consider the indanone derivative isolated fromF. adenophyllaas a promising candidate for drug delivery, subject to outcomes of further in vivo and clinical studies.
Effects of once- versus twice-weekly eccentric resistance training on muscular function and structure in older adults: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Baxter Brett A. , Baross Anthony W. , Ryan Declan J. , Tkadlec Stepan , Kay Anthony D.
Published: April 2024

Adherence rates to current twice-weekly strength training guidelines are poor among older adults. Eccentric-only training elicits substantial improvements in muscle function/size so the aim of this study was to compare the effects of once- versus twice-weekly eccentric training programmes on muscle function/size in older adults. Thirty-six participants (69.4 ± 6.0 yr) were randomised into non-active control, once-, or twice-weekly training groups. Lower-limb muscle power, strength, and size were assessed at baseline, mid-, and post-eccentric training. Training was performed for 12 min per session at 50% of maximum eccentric strength. Significant increases in power (13%), isometric (17–36%) and eccentric (40–50%) strength, and VL muscle thickness (9–18%) occurred in both training groups following 12 weeks. Minimal muscle soreness was induced throughout the 12 weeks and perceived exertion was consistently lower in the twice-weekly training group. One weekly submaximal eccentric resistance training session over 12 weeks elicits similar improvements in neuromuscular function compared to the currently recommended twice-weekly training dose. Given the substantial improvements in neuromuscular function and previously reported low adherence to current twice-weekly training guidelines, eccentric training may be pivotal to developing a minimal-dose strategy to counteract neuromuscular decline. The trial was registered retrospectively on 24/01/2024 with ISRCTN (trial registration number: ISRCTN68730580).
Comprehensive evaluation of T7 promoter for enhanced yield and quality in mRNA production
Authors: Sari Yustika , Sousa Rosa Sara , Jeffries Jack , Marques Marco P. C.
Published: April 2024

The manufacturing of mRNA vaccines relies on cell-free based systems that are easily scalable and flexible compared with the traditional vaccine manufacturing processes. Typically, standard processes yield 2 to 5 g L−1 of mRNA, with recent process optimisations increasing yields to 12 g L−1. However, increasing yields can lead to an increase in the production of unwanted by-products, namely dsRNA. It is therefore imperative to reduce dsRNA to residual levels in order to avoid intensive purification steps, enabling cost-effective manufacturing processes. In this work, we exploit sequence modifications downstream of the T7 RNA polymerase promoter to increase mRNA yields whilst simultaneously minimising dsRNA. In particular, transcription performance was optimised by modifying the sequence downstream of the T7 promoter with additional AT-rich sequences. We have identified variants that were able to produce higher amounts of mRNA (up to 14 g L−1) in 45 min of reaction. These variants exhibited up to a 30% reduction in dsRNA byproduct levels compared to a wildtype T7 promoter, and have similar EGFP protein expression. The results show that optimising the non-coding regions can have an impact on mRNA production yields and quality, reducing overall manufacturing costs.
Research on the innovative application of Shen Embroidery cultural heritage based on convolutional neural network
Authors: Zhu Jiajun , Zhu Changyong
Published: April 2024

In order to protect intangible cultural heritage and promote outstanding cultural works, this article introduces innovative research on Shen Embroidery using convolutional neural networks. The dataset of Shen Embroidery was preprocessed to augment the data required for experimentation. Moreover, the approach of transfer learning was introduced to fine-tune the recognition network. Specifically, Spatial Pyramid Pooling (SPP) is employed by replacing the avg pool in the MobileNet V1 network, achieving the fusion of local and global features. The experimental results showed that the improved MobileNet V1 achieved a recognition accuracy of 98.45%, which was 2.3% higher than the baseline MobileNet V1 network. The experiments demonstrated that the improved convolutional neural network can efficiently recognize Shen Embroidery and provide technical support for the intelligent development of intangible cultural heritage.
Fractional analysis of non-linear fuzzy partial differential equations by using a direct procedure
Authors: Arshad Muhammad , Khan Shahbaz , Khan Hassan , Ali Hamid , Ali Ijaz
Published: April 2024

In this study, an accurate analytical solution is presented for fuzzy FPDEs. It is done by using a novel method called the Laplace-residual power series (LRPSM) to build a series solution to the given problems. The fundamental instruments of the employed method are the Laplace transform, fractional Laurent, and fractional power series. Using the idea of a limit at infinity, we provide a series solution to a fuzzy FPDE with quick convergence and simple coefficient finding. We analyze three cases to obtain approximate and exact solutions to show the effectiveness and reliability of the Laplace- residual power series approach. To demonstrate the accuracy of the suggested procedure, we compare the findings to the real data.
Eggs sampling as an effective tool for identifying the incidence of viruses in honey bees involved in artificial queen rearing
Authors: Domingues Caio E. C. , Šimenc Laura , Toplak Ivan , de Graaf Dirk C. , De Smet Lina , Verbeke Wim , Peelman Luc , Ansaloni Leticia S. , Gregorc Aleš
Published: April 2024

The Carniolan honey bee (Apis mellifera carnica) plays an essential role in crop pollination, environment diversity, and the production of honey bee products. However, the health of individual honey bees and their colonies is under pressure due to multiple stressors, including viruses as a significant threat to bees. Monitoring various virus infections could be a crucial selection tool during queen rearing. In the present study, samples from all developmental stages (eggs, larvae, pupae, and queens) were screened for the incidence of seven viruses during queen rearing in Slovenia. The screening of a total of 108 samples from five queen breeders was performed by the RT-qPCR assays. The results showed that the highest incidence was observed for black queen cell virus (BQCV), Lake Sinai virus 3 (LSV3), deformed wing virus B (DWV-B), and sacbrood virus (SBV). The highest viral load was detected in queens (6.07 log10 copies/queen) and larvae (5.50 log10 copies/larva) for BQCV, followed by SBV in larvae (5.47 log10 copies/larva). When comparing all the honey bee developmental stages, the eggs exhibited general screening for virus incidence and load in queen mother colonies. The results suggest that analyzing eggs is a good indicator of resilience to virus infection during queen development.
High-resolution early warning system for human Puumala hantavirus infection risk in Germany
Authors: Kazasidis Orestis , Geduhn Anke , Jacob Jens
Published: April 2024

The fluctuation of human infections by the Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV) in Germany has been linked to weather and phenology parameters that drive the population growth of its host species. We quantified the annual PUUV-outbreaks at the district level by binarizing the reported infections in the period 2006–2021. With these labels we trained a model based on a support vector machine classifier for predicting local outbreaks and incidence well in advance. The feature selection for the optimal model was performed by a heuristic method and identified five monthly weather variables from the previous two years plus the beech flowering intensity of the previous year. The predictive power of the optimal model was assessed by a leave-one-out cross-validation in 16 years that led to an 82.8% accuracy for the outbreak and a 0.457 coefficient of determination for the incidence. Prediction risk maps for the entire endemic area in Germany will be annually available on a freely-accessible permanent online platform of the German Environment Agency. The model correctly identified 2022 as a year with low outbreak risk, whereas its prediction for large-scale high outbreak risk in 2023 was not confirmed.
Redox active plant phenolic, acetosyringone, for electrogenetic signaling
Authors: Zakaria Fauziah Rahma , Chen Chen-Yu , Li Jinyang , Wang Sally , Payne Gregory F. , Bentley William E.
Published: April 2024

Redox is a unique, programmable modality capable of bridging communication between biology and electronics. Previous studies have shown that the E. coli redox-responsive OxyRS regulon can be re-wired to accept electrochemically generated hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as an inducer of gene expression. Here we report that the redox-active phenolic plant signaling molecule acetosyringone (AS) can also induce gene expression from the OxyRS regulon. AS must be oxidized, however, as the reduced state present under normal conditions cannot induce gene expression. Thus, AS serves as a “pro-signaling molecule” that can be activated by its oxidation—in our case by application of oxidizing potential to an electrode. We show that the OxyRS regulon is not induced electrochemically if the imposed electrode potential is in the mid-physiological range. Electronically sliding the applied potential to either oxidative or reductive extremes induces this regulon but through different mechanisms: reduction of O2 to form H2O2 or oxidation of AS. Fundamentally, this work reinforces the emerging concept that redox signaling depends more on molecular activities than molecular structure. From an applications perspective, the creation of an electronically programmed “pro-signal” dramatically expands the toolbox for electronic control of biological responses in microbes, including in complex environments, cell-based materials, and biomanufacturing.
Integrated optical phased array with on-chip amplification enabling programmable beam shaping
Authors: Gagino Marco , Millan-Mejia Alonso , Augustin Luc , Williams Kevin , Bente Erwin , Dolores-Calzadilla Victor
Published: April 2024

We present an integrated optical phased array (OPA) which embeds in-line optical amplifiers and phase modulators to provide beam-forming capability with gain and beam steering in the 1465–1590 nm wavelength range. We demonstrate up to 21.5 dB net on-chip gain and up to 35.5 mW optical output power. The OPA circuit is based on an InP photonic integration platform and features the highest measured on-chip gain and output power level recorded in an active OPA (i.e., with amplification), to the best of our knowledge. Furthermore, the OPA enables the independent control of both amplitude and phase in its arms and through this we demonstrate programmable beam shaping for two cases. First, we carried out a Gaussian apodization of the power distribution profile in the OPA emitter waveguides, leading to 19.8 dB sidelobe suppression in the far-field beam, which is the highest value recorded for active OPAs, and then we demonstrated beam forming of 0th, 1st, and 2nd order 1D Hermite–Gaussian beams in free-space.
Mitochondrial responses to constant and cyclic hypoxia depend on the oxidized fuel in a hypoxia-tolerant marine bivalve Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Adzigbli Linda , Ponsuksili Siriluck , Sokolova Inna
Published: April 2024

Sessile benthic organisms like oysters inhabit the intertidal zone, subject to alternating hypoxia and reoxygenation (H/R) episodes during tidal movements, impacting respiratory chain activities and metabolome compositions. We investigated the effects of constant severe hypoxia (90 min at ~ 0% O2 ) followed by 10 min reoxygenation, and cyclic hypoxia (5 cycles of 15 min at ~ 0% O2 and 10 min reoxygenation) on isolated mitochondria from the gill and the digestive gland of Crassostrea gigas respiring on pyruvate, palmitate, or succinate. Constant hypoxia suppressed oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), particularly during Complex I-linked substrates oxidation. It had no effect on mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) efflux but increased fractional electron leak (FEL). In mitochondria oxidizing Complex I substrates, exposure to cyclic hypoxia prompted a significant drop after the first H/R cycle. In contrast, succinate-driven respiration only showed significant decline after the third to fifth H/R cycle. ROS efflux saw little change during cyclic hypoxia regardless of the oxidized substrate, but Complex I-driven FEL tended to increase with each subsequent H/R cycle. These observations suggest that succinate may serve as a beneficial stress fuel under H/R conditions, aiding in the post-hypoxic recovery of oysters by reducing oxidative stress and facilitating rapid ATP re-synthesis. The impacts of constant and cyclic hypoxia of similar duration on mitochondrial respiration and oxidative lesions in the proteins were comparable indicating that the mitochondrial damage is mostly determined by the lack of oxygen and mitochondrial depolarization. The ROS efflux in the mitochondria of oysters was minimally affected by oxygen fluctuations indicating that tight regulation of ROS production may contribute to robust mitochondrial phenotype of oysters and protect against H/R induced stress.
The intestinal stem cell/enteroblast-GAL4 driver, escargot-GAL4, also manipulates gene expression in the juvenile hormone-synthesizing organ of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kurogi Yoshitomo , Mizuno Yosuke , Kamiyama Takumi , Niwa Ryusuke
Published: April 2024

Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, offer an excellent genetic model to explore homeostatic roles of ISCs in animal physiology. Among available genetic tools, the escargot (esg)-GAL4 driver, expressing the yeast transcription factor gene, GAL4, under control of the esg gene promoter, has contributed significantly to ISC studies. This driver facilitates activation of genes of interest in proximity to a GAL4-binding element, Upstream Activating Sequence, in ISCs and progenitor enteroblasts (EBs). While esg-GAL4 has been considered an ISC/EB-specific driver, recent studies have shown that esg-GAL4 is also active in other tissues, such as neurons and ovaries. Therefore, the ISC/EB specificity of esg-GAL4 is questionable. In this study, we reveal esg-GAL4 expression in the corpus allatum (CA), responsible for juvenile hormone (JH) production. When driving the oncogenic gene, RasV12, esg-GAL4 induces overgrowth in ISCs/EBs as reported, but also increases CA cell number and size. Consistent with this observation, animals alter expression of JH-response genes. Our data show that esg-GAL4-driven gene manipulation can systemically influence JH-mediated animal physiology, arguing for cautious use of esg-GAL4 as a “specific” ISC/EB driver to examine ISC/EB-mediated animal physiology.
Online speech synthesis using a chronically implanted brain–computer interface in an individual with ALS
Authors: Angrick Miguel , Luo Shiyu , Rabbani Qinwan , Candrea Daniel N. , Shah Samyak , Milsap Griffin W. , Anderson William S. , Gordon Chad R. , Rosenblatt Kathryn R. , Clawson Lora , Tippett Donna C. , Maragakis Nicholas , Tenore Francesco V. , Fifer Matthew S. , Hermansky Hynek , Ramsey Nick F. , Crone Nathan E.
Published: April 2024

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) that reconstruct and synthesize speech using brain activity recorded with intracranial electrodes may pave the way toward novel communication interfaces for people who have lost their ability to speak, or who are at high risk of losing this ability, due to neurological disorders. Here, we report online synthesis of intelligible words using a chronically implanted brain-computer interface (BCI) in a man with impaired articulation due to ALS, participating in a clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03567213) exploring different strategies for BCI communication. The 3-stage approach reported here relies on recurrent neural networks to identify, decode and synthesize speech from electrocorticographic (ECoG) signals acquired across motor, premotor and somatosensory cortices. We demonstrate a reliable BCI that synthesizes commands freely chosen and spoken by the participant from a vocabulary of 6 keywords previously used for decoding commands to control a communication board. Evaluation of the intelligibility of the synthesized speech indicates that 80% of the words can be correctly recognized by human listeners. Our results show that a speech-impaired individual with ALS can use a chronically implanted BCI to reliably produce synthesized words while preserving the participant’s voice profile, and provide further evidence for the stability of ECoG for speech-based BCIs.
Dependence of mechanical properties on the phase composition of intercritically annealed medium-Mn steel as the main competitor of high-strength DP steels
Authors: Skowronek Adam , Grajcar Adam , Petrov Roumen H.
Published: April 2024

Depending on the alloy composition, intercritical annealing may provide different phases in the microstructure. For low-alloyed dual-phase (DP) steels it is usually ferrite and martensite, while for medium-Mn steels retained austenite is also formed. In a present study, a wide intercritical temperature range was applied to a 5% Mn steel to investigate possible microstructure combinations: ranging from fully ferritic, through ferritic-austenitic, multiphase, to fully martensitic, which were next investigated in terms of mechanical properties to clarify the behavior of this type of material. The obtained results together with technological issues and economic indicators were next compared to mechanical properties of typical DP steels in order to assess the possibility of replacing this material in car production. The mechanical properties were evaluated using static tensile and hardness tests. The phase composition was determined qualitatively and quantitatively using dilatometry, X-ray diffraction measurements, and electron backscatter diffraction analysis. The results suggest that both initial austenite and martensite fractions have a decisive influence on the yielding and elongation of steel; however, the tensile strength depends mainly on the sum of martensite initially present in the microstructure and the strain-induced martensite formed from the plastically deformed austenite regardless of the initial retained austenite—martensite ratio. The results indicate superior total elongation of medium-Mn steels reaching 30% compared to DP steels with a similar strength level in the range between 900 and 1400 MPa. However, medium-Mn steels could be a significant competitor to dual phase steels only if some technological problems like discontinuous yielding and serrations are significantly reduced.
Accelerated epigenetic age is associated with whole-brain functional connectivity and impaired cognitive performance in older adults
Authors: Graves Andrew J. , Danoff Joshua S. , Kim Minah , Brindley Samantha R. , Skyberg Amalia M. , Giamberardino Stephanie N. , Lynch Morgan E. , Straka Brenda C. , Lillard Travis S. , Gregory Simon G. , Connelly Jessica J. , Morris James P.
Published: April 2024

While chronological age is a strong predictor for health-related risk factors, it is an incomplete metric that fails to fully characterize the unique aging process of individuals with different genetic makeup, neurodevelopment, and environmental experiences. Recent advances in epigenomic array technologies have made it possible to generate DNA methylation-based biomarkers of biological aging, which may be useful in predicting a myriad of cognitive abilities and functional brain network organization across older individuals. It is currently unclear which cognitive domains are negatively correlated with epigenetic age above and beyond chronological age, and it is unknown if functional brain organization is an important mechanism for explaining these associations. In this study, individuals with accelerated epigenetic age (i.e. AgeAccelGrim) performed worse on tasks that spanned a wide variety of cognitive faculties including both fluid and crystallized intelligence (N = 103, average age = 68.98 years, 73 females, 30 males). Additionally, fMRI connectome-based predictive models suggested a mediating mechanism of functional connectivity on epigenetic age acceleration-cognition associations primarily in medial temporal lobe and limbic structures. This research highlights the important role of epigenetic aging processes on the development and maintenance of healthy cognitive capacities and function of the aging brain.
Quantum teleportation in Heisenberg chain with magnetic-field gradient under intrinsic decoherence
Authors: Hosseiny Seyed Mohammad , Seyed-Yazdi Jamileh , Norouzi Milad , Livreri Patrizia
Published: April 2024

One of the most appealing quantum communication protocols is quantum teleportation, which involves sharing entanglement between the sender and receiver of the quantum state. We address the two-qubit quantum teleportation based on the Heisenberg XYZ chain with a magnetic-field gradient affected by intrinsic decoherence. An atomic spin chain is primarily coupled to the linear gradient of the magnetic field in the x-direction, with the assumption that the magnetic field varies linearly with the position of the atom. By using the concepts of fidelity and average fidelity in the presence of the magnetic field gradient and under the effect of intrinsic decoherence in the current model, and considering the variables of the system, an improved quantum teleportation can be achieved. In addition, using the concept of remote quantum estimation, we examine remote quantum sensing in this article, which is very useful in quantum communication.
A novel chemically defined medium for the biotechnological and biomedical exploitation of the cell factory Leishmania tarentolae
Authors: Cattaneo Giulia Maria , Varotto-Boccazzi Ilaria , Molteni Riccardo , Ronchetti Federico , Gabrieli Paolo , Mendoza-Roldan Jairo Alfonso , Otranto Domenico , Montomoli Emanuele , Bandi Claudio , Epis Sara
Published: April 2024

The development of media for cell culture is a major issue in the biopharmaceutical industry, for the production of therapeutics, immune-modulating molecules and protein antigens. Chemically defined media offer several advantages, as they are free of animal-derived components and guarantee high purity and a consistency in their composition. Microorganisms of the genus Leishmania represent a promising cellular platform for production of recombinant proteins, but their maintenance requires supplements of animal origin, such as hemin and fetal bovine serum. In the present study, three chemically defined media were assayed for culturing Leishmania tarentolae, using both a wild-type strain and a strain engineered to produce a viral antigen. Among the three media, Schneider's Drosophila Medium supplemented with Horseradish Peroxidase proved to be effective for the maintenance of L. tarentolae promastigotes, also allowing the heterologous protein production by the engineered strain. Finally, the engineered strain was maintained in culture up to the 12th week without antibiotic, revealing its capability to produce the recombinant protein in the absence of selective pressure.
Vegetation index and livestock practices as predictors of malaria transmission in Nigeria
Authors: Okunlola Oluyemi , Oloja Segun , Ebiwonjumi Ayooluwade , Oyeyemi Oyetunde
Published: April 2024

Nigeria is the most malaria-endemic country in the world. Vegetation and livestock practices have been linked to malaria transmission but little is known about these in Nigeria. The study aimed to evaluate the influence of vegetation and livestock as predictors of malaria transmission in Nigeria. Secondary data obtained from the Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey’s Geospatial Covariate Datasets Manual were used for the analysis. The survey was carried out successfully in 1389 clusters of thirty (30) households each using a two-stage stratified random sampling design. Hierarchical beta regression models were used to model the associations between malaria incidence, enhanced vegetation index (EVI), and livestock practices. The correlation coefficients for vegetation index and livestock-related variables ranged from − 0.063 to 0.074 and varied significantly with the incidence of malaria in Nigeria (P < 0.001). The model showed vegetation index, livestock goats, and sheep as positive predictors of malaria transmission. Conversely, livestock chicken and pigs were observed to reduce the risk of malaria. The study recommends the need to take into account local differences in transmission when developing malaria early warning systems that utilize environmental and livestock predictors.
Multilevel analysis of social determinants of advanced stage colorectal cancer diagnosis
Authors: Dantas Amanda Almeida Gomes , de Oliveira Nayara Priscila Dantas , Costa Guilherme Augusto Barcello , Martins Luís Felipe Leite , dos Santos Jonas Eduardo Monteiro , Migowski Arn , de Camargo Cancela Marianna , de Souza Dyego Leandro Bezerra
Published: April 2024

The advanced stage at diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) may be related to individual factors, socioeconomic conditions, and healthcare service availability. The objective of the study was to analyze the prevalence of advanced stage CRC at the time of diagnosis and its association with individual, contextual, socioeconomic, and healthcare service indicators. An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted, analyzing cases of malignant neoplasms of the colon and rectum in individuals of both sexes, aged between 18 and 99 years, diagnosed between 2010 and 2019 in Brazil (n = 69,047). Data were collected from the Hospital Cancer Registry (HCR), Atlas of Human Development in Brazil, and from the National Registry of Health Institutions (NRHI). A Multilevel Poisson Regression model with random intercept was used. The prevalence of advanced stage CRC at diagnosis was 65.6%. Advanced stage was associated with older age groups prevalence ratio (PR) 4.40 and younger age groups (PR 1.84), low Human Development Index (HDI) (PR 1.22), and low density of family health strategy teams (PR 1.10). The study highlights the unequal distribution of social determinants of health in the diagnosis CRC in Brazil, revealing the need to evaluate and redirect public policies aimed at improving early detection and prevention of CRC in the country.
Chloroplast genome analysis and evolutionary insights in the versatile medicinal plant Calendula officinalis L.
Authors: Zhang Ningyun , Huang Kerui , Xie Peng , Deng Aihua , Tang Xuan , Jiang Ming , Mo Ping , Yin Hanbin , Huang Rongjie , Liang Jiale , He Fuhao , Liu Yaping , Hu Haoliang , Wang Yun
Published: April 2024

Calendula officinalis L.is a versatile medicinal plant with numerous applications in various fields. However, its chloroplast genome structure, features, phylogeny, and patterns of evolution and mutation remain largely unexplored. This study examines the chloroplast genome, phylogeny, codon usage bias, and divergence time of C. officinalis, enhancing our understanding of its evolution and adaptation. The chloroplast genome of C. officinalis is a 150,465 bp circular molecule with a G + C content of 37.75% and comprises 131 genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close relationship between C. officinalis, C. arvensis, and Osteospermum ecklonis. A key finding is the similarity in codon usage bias among these species, which, coupled with the divergence time analysis, supports their close phylogenetic proximity. This similarity in codon preference and divergence times underscores a parallel evolutionary adaptation journey for these species, highlighting the intricate interplay between genetic evolution and environmental adaptation in the Asteraceae family. Moreover unique evolutionary features in C. officinalis, possibly associated with certain genes were identified, laying a foundation for future research into the genetic diversity and medicinal value of C. officinalis.
Enhanced response of thermospheric cooling emission to negative pressure pulse
Authors: Bag Tikemani , Ogawa Yasunobu
Published: April 2024

Nitric oxide (NO) emission via 5.3 µm wavelength plays dominant role in regulating the thermospheric temperature due to thermostat nature. The response of NO 5.3 mm emission to the negative pressure impulse during November 06–09, 2010 is studied by using Sounding of Atmosphere by Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) observations onboard the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED) satellite and model simulations. The TIMED/SABER satellite observations demonstrate a significant enhancement in the high latitude region. The Open Geospace General Circulation Model (OpenGGCM), Weimer model simulations and Active Magnetosphere and Planetary Electrodynamics Response Experiment measurements exhibit intensification and equatorward expansion of the field-aligned-currents (FACs) post-negative pressure impulse period due to the expansion of the dayside magnetosphere. The enhanced FACs drive precipitation of low energy particle flux and Joule heating rate affecting whole magnetosphere–ionosphere–thermosphere system. Our study based on electric fields and conductivity derived from the EISCAT Troms$${\o }$$
ø
radar and TIEGCM simulation suggests that the enhanced Joule heating rate and the particle precipitations prompt the increase in NO cooling emission.
Mapping burned areas in Thailand using Sentinel-2 imagery and OBIA techniques
Authors: Suwanprasit Chanida , Shahnawaz
Published: April 2024

Monitoring burned areas in Thailand and other tropical countries during the post-harvest season is becoming increasingly important. High-resolution remote sensing data from Sentinel-2 satellites, which have a short revisit time, is ideal for accurately and efficiently mapping burned regions. However, automating the mapping of agriculture residual on a national scale is challenging due to the volume of information and level of detail involved. In this study, a Sentinel-2A Level-1C Multispectral Instrument image (MSI) from February 27, 2018 was combined with object-based image analysis (OBIA) algorithms to identify burned areas in Mae Chaem, Chom Thong, Hod, Mae Sariang, and Mae La Noi Districts in Chiang Mai, Thailand. OBIA techniques were used to classify forest, agricultural, water bodies, newly burned, and old burned regions. The segmentation scale parameter value of 50 was obtained using only the original Sentinel-2A band in red, green, blue, near infrared (NIR), and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The accuracy of the produced maps was assessed using an existing burned area dataset, and the burned area identified through OBIA was found to be 85.2% accurate compared to 500 random burned points from the dataset. These results suggest that the combination of OBIA and Sentinel-2A with a 10 m spatial resolution is very effective and promising for the process of burned area mapping.
Levels of autonomy in FDA-cleared surgical robots: a systematic review
Authors: Lee Audrey , Baker Turner S. , Bederson Joshua B. , Rapoport Benjamin I.
Published: April 2024

The integration of robotics in surgery has increased over the past decade, and advances in the autonomous capabilities of surgical robots have paralleled that of assistive and industrial robots. However, classification and regulatory frameworks have not kept pace with the increasing autonomy of surgical robots. There is a need to modernize our classification to understand technological trends and prepare to regulate and streamline surgical practice around these robotic systems. We present a systematic review of all surgical robots cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 2015 to 2023, utilizing a classification system that we call Levels of Autonomy in Surgical Robotics (LASR) to categorize each robot’s decision-making and action-taking abilities from Level 1 (Robot Assistance) to Level 5 (Full Autonomy). We searched the 510(k), De Novo, and AccessGUDID databases in December 2023 and included all medical devices fitting our definition of a surgical robot. 37,981 records were screened to identify 49 surgical robots. Most surgical robots were at Level 1 (86%) and some reached Level 3 (Conditional Autonomy) (6%). 2 surgical robots were recognized by the FDA to have machine learning-enabled capabilities, while more were reported to have these capabilities in their marketing materials. Most surgical robots were introduced via the 510(k) pathway, but a growing number via the De Novo pathway. This review highlights trends toward greater autonomy in surgical robotics. Implementing regulatory frameworks that acknowledge varying levels of autonomy in surgical robots may help ensure their safe and effective integration into surgical practice.
Groundwater vulnerability to pollution in Africa’s Sahel region
Authors: Podgorski Joel , Kracht Oliver , Araguas-Araguas Luis , Terzer-Wassmuth Stefan , Miller Jodie , Straub Ralf , Kipfer Rolf , Berg Michael
Published: April 2024

Protection of groundwater resources is essential to ensure quality and sustainable use. However, predicting vulnerability to anthropogenic pollution can be difficult where data are limited. This is particularly true in the Sahel region of Africa, which has a rapidly growing population and increasing water demands. Here we use groundwater measurements of tritium (3H) with machine learning to create an aquifer vulnerability map (of the western Sahel), which forms an important basis for sustainable groundwater management. Modelling shows that arid areas with greater precipitation seasonality, higher permeability and deeper wells or water table generally have older groundwater and less vulnerability to pollution. About half of the modelled area was classified as vulnerable. Groundwater vulnerability is based on recent recharge, implying a sensitivity also to a changing climate, for example, through altered precipitation or evapotranspiration. This study showcases the efficacy of using tritium to assess aquifer vulnerability and the value of tritium analyses in groundwater, particularly towards improving the spatial and temporal resolution.
Parameter investigation of an organic–inorganic hybrid resin for a 3D-printed microchannel heat exchanger
Authors: Lee Sunjae , Mottafegh Amirreza , Kim Dong-Pyo
Published: April 2024

This study can act as a guideline for printing high-performance heat exchangers using diverse 3D printing technology for resin formulation.
Molecule engineering strategy of toll-like receptor 7/8 agonists designed for potentiating immune stimuli activation
Authors: Gu Liuwei , Kong Xiaojie , Li Mengyan , Chen Rui , Xu Ke , Li Guo , Qin Yulin , Wu Li
Published: April 2024

We highlighted the recent research progress concerning the molecule engineering strategy of toll-like receptor 7/8 agonists for enhancing immunotherapy, including our research work and some related emerging works.
Dissociation mechanism of lithium salt by BaTiO3 with spontaneous polarization
Authors: Guo Shaoke , Tan Shendong , Ma Jiabin , Chen Likun , Yang Ke , Zhu Qiannan , Ma Yuetao , Shi Peiran , Wei Yinping , An Xufei , Ren Qingkang , Huang Yanfei , Zhu Yingman , Cheng Ye , Lv Wei , Hou Tingzheng , Liu Ming , He Yan-Bing , Yang Quan-Hong , Kang Feiyu
Published: April 2024

We elucidate the dissociation mechanism of LiFSI induced by the ferroelectric fillers of BaTiO3 and enhanced spontaneous polarization by oxygen vacancy defects.
High-performance BiVO4 photoanodes: elucidating the combined effects of Mo-doping and modification with cobalt polyoxometalate
Authors: Feng Fan , Mitoraj Dariusz , Gong Ruihao , Gao Dandan , Elnagar Mohamed M. , Liu Rongji , Beranek Radim , Streb Carsten
Published: April 2024

Significant water oxidation reactivity enhancement in BiVO4 photoanodes is achieved by simultaneous bulk doping with molybdenum and surface-modification with a polyoxometalate water oxidation co-catalyst.
Study adsorbents based on bent-Al13-CS-CTA and its application to the removal of CR from wastewater
Authors: Chen Hanjie , Zhang Mei , Chen Shuyang , Fang Ying
Published: April 2024

For rapid and efficient removal of Congo red (CR) from aqueous solutions, a composite of bent-Al13-CS-CTA was prepared from bentonite (bent), chitosan (CS), citric acid (CTA) and Al13 compounds.