bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling on assessment of flood risk susceptibility at the Jia Bharali River basin in Eastern Himalayas by integrating multicollinearity tests and geospatial techniques
Authors: Debnath Jatan , Sahariah Dhrubojyoti , Nath Nityaranjan , Saikia Anup , Lahon Durlov , Islam Md. Nazrul , Hashimoto Shizuka , Meraj Gowhar , Kumar Pankaj , Singh Suraj Kumar , Kanga Shruti , Chand Kesar
Published: December 2023

Climate change and anthropogenic factors have exacerbated flood risks in many regions across the globe, including the Himalayan foothill region in India. The Jia Bharali River basin, situated in this vulnerable area, frequently experiences high-magnitude floods, causing significant damage to the environment and local communities. Developing accurate and reliable flood susceptibility models is crucial for effective flood prevention, management, and adaptation strategies. In this study, we aimed to generate a comprehensive flood susceptibility zone model for the Jia Bharali catchment by integrating statistical methods with expert knowledge-based mathematical models. We applied four distinct models, including the Frequency Ratio model, Fuzzy Logic (FL) model, Multi-criteria Decision Making based Analytical Hierarchy Process model, and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process model, to evaluate the flood susceptibility of the basin. The results revealed that approximately one-third of the Jia Bharali basin area fell within moderate to very high flood-prone zones. In contrast, over 50% of the area was classified as low to very low flood-prone zones. The applied models demonstrated strong performance, with ROC-AUC scores exceeding 70% and MAE, MSE, and RMSE scores below 30%. FL and AHP were recommended for application among the models in areas with similar physiographic characteristics due to their exceptional performance and the training datasets. This study offers crucial insights for policymakers, regional administrative authorities, environmentalists, and engineers working in the Himalayan foothill region. By providing a robust flood susceptibility model, the research enhances flood prevention efforts and management, thereby serving as a vital climate change adaptation strategy for the Jia Bharali River basin and similar regions. The findings also have significant implications for disaster risk reduction and sustainable development in vulnerable areas, contributing to the global efforts towards achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
Monitoring of Insulated Rail Joints Based on Gap Value Measurement
Authors: La Placa Aldo , Freddi Francesco , Giuliani Felice
Published: December 2023

The monitoring of an IRJ would allow targeted maintenance to be carried out, reducing the problems caused by its potential failures. The authors present the results of a test field investigation, that involved the installation of seven longitudinal displacement sensors that continuously record the gap value of insulated rail joints (IRJs). The monitoring of an IRJ would allow targeted maintenance to be carried out, reducing the problems caused by its potential failures. The studied monitoring system was installed in a station of the suburban railway line within the metropolitan city of Bologna (Italy). Analysis of low-and high-frequency recordings was performed. In particular, low-frequency acquisition was used to fit a statistical predictive model that detects a deviation from a standard behaviour and may evidence anomalies. For the high-frequency acquisitions (registered during train passage) some representative quantities, that can provide macroscopic indicators of loss of joint stiffness, were computed. Although gap measurement alone is not exhaustive for identifying all possible failure scenarios, the data acquired by these monitoring devices can represent a possible immediate monitoring solution, based on already available instrumentation, to provide user-friendly predictive analysis systems aiming at improving the railway maintenance.
Survey on Aculops lycopersici and operational factors potentially affecting successful pest management among 50 tomato producers in Germany
Authors: Pfaff Alexander , Böckmann Elias
Published: December 2023

Aculops lycopersici(Acari: Eriophyoidea) is a pest in tomato cultivation worldwide. In recent years, the number of reports ofA. lycopersiciinfestations in tomato have increased in Germany. In the first half of 2019, a survey of 50 tomato producing farms was conducted to assess the occurrence ofA. lycopersiciand the impact this pest has on tomato cultivation in Germany. The participating farms represented ~ 3.5% of the 1448 farms in Germany with protected tomato production in 2019. Total tomato production area considered in the survey was 131.8 ha which corresponds to ~ 34% of the 385.63 ha of protected tomato production area in Germany in this year.A. lycopersicipresence was reported by 33 of the 50 surveyed farms, within the last 5 years. Amongst these 50 participants it was the pest with the highest relative importance in terms of plant protection effort exerted.A. lycopersicioccurrence was reported more frequently from production systems with a higher intensification. For instance, heating in cold months and a larger production area were considered intensification factors in this study. However, due to autocorrelation between intensification factors it was not possible to link increased occurrence to specific factors. As the intensification factors favouringA. lycopersicioccurrence are more prevalent in integrated production, those farms facedA. lycopersicioccurrence more often than the organic growers in this study. Plant protection strategies often combine broad treatments of sulphur with local abamectin treatments, removal of infested plant material and the introduction of natural enemies.
Largest nearest-neighbour link and connectivity threshold in a polytopal random sample
Authors: Penrose Mathew D. , Yang Xiaochuan , Higgs Frankie
Published: December 2023

Let $$X_1,X_2, \ldots $$

X
1

,

X
2

,
…

be independent identically distributed random points in a convex polytopal domain $$A \subset \mathbb {R}^d$$

A
⊂

R

d

. Define the largest nearest-neighbour link$$L_n$$

L
n

to be the smallest r such that every point of $$\mathscr {X}_n:=\{X_1,\ldots ,X_n\}$$

X
n

:
=

{

X
1

,
…
,

X
n

}

has another such point within distance r. We obtain a strong law of large numbers for $$L_n$$

L
n

in the large-n limit. A related threshold, the connectivity threshold$$M_n$$

M
n

, is the smallest r such that the random geometric graph $$G(\mathscr {X}_n, r)$$

G
(

X
n

,
r
)

is connected (so $$L_n \le M_n$$

L
n

≤

M
n

). We show that as $$n \rightarrow \infty $$

n
→
∞

, almost surely $$nL_n^d/\log n$$

n

L
n
d

/
log
n

tends to a limit that depends on the geometry of A, and $$nM_n^d/\log n$$

n

M
n
d

/
log
n

tends to the same limit. We derive these results via asymptotic lower bounds for $$L_n$$

L
n

and upper bounds for $$M_n$$

M
n

that are applicable in a larger class of metric spaces satisfying certain regularity conditions.
On the smoothness of normed spaces
Authors: Banaś Józef , Ochab Justyna , Zając Tomasz
Published: December 2023

The aim of the paper is to discuss and clarify some concepts of the geometric theory of normed spaces. We mainly intend to present recent results concerning the concept of smoothness of normed spaces in connection with the concepts of the strict and uniform convexity of those spaces.
Hybrid Neural Network Models for Detecting Fake News Articles
Authors: Khalil Ashwaq , Jarrah Moath , Aldwairi Monther
Published: December 2023

The prevalence of world-wide access to the Internet has come at a cost. A lot of misleading information is posted on public news websites and social media. Many news writers and organizations manipulate their posted data to propagate false information that target different societies and in different languages. Accurate and timely detection of false news is made possible in large part using machine learning-based technologies. This paper targets the problem of detecting fake news in Arabic language using machine learning models. A hybrid model of two deep neural networks is used to classify Arabic news articles in order to detect fake articles. The two types of neural networks are convolutional and bi-directional long-short term memory. Robust features are extracted using two different word vectors and a complex model of a convolutional neural network. Moreover, a set of auxiliary output layers are used to enhance the model accuracy. Multi-class classification is achieved via modifying the primary output layer. Results show an accuracy of 88% and 78% for binary classification and multi-class classification, respectively.
A Generalized Aerosol Algorithm for Multi‐Spectral Satellite Measurement With Physics‐Informed Deep Learning Method
Authors: Jiang Jianfang , Tao Minghui , Xu Xiaoguang , Jiang Zhe , Man Wenjing , Wang Jun , Wang Lunche , Wang Yi , Zheng Yalin , Tao Jinhua , Chen Liangfu
Published: December 2023

The multi‐spectral satellite sensors such as MODIS have a large swath, high spatial resolution, and well onboard calibration, enabling aerosol retrievals with daily global coverage. Despite numerous available bands, MODIS aerosol algorithms over land typically only utilize measurements from 2 to 3 spectral wavelengths to retrieve Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) based on prescribed aerosol models. To make full use of multi‐spectral measurements and prior information, we developed an aerosol algorithm based on physics‐informed deep learning (PDL) approach. With physical constraint from radiative transfer simulation, PDL can construct model functions between the whole spectral measurements and each retrieved aerosol parameter separately. AERONET validations in eastern China show that MODIS PDL algorithm can accurately retrieve AOD and fine AOD (R = 0.936) at 1 km resolution and has reliable performance in coarse AOD as well as notable sensitivity to aerosol absorption. The flexible and efficient PDL method provides a generalized algorithm for common multi‐spectral satellite measurements.
The Thermal Structure of Central Te Riu a Māui/Zealandia Continent as Determined From the Depth to Base of Magnetic Sources
Authors: Miller C. A. , Kirkby A. , Mortimer N. , Aden F. , Barretto J. , Black J. , Chambefort I. , Stagpoole V.
Published: December 2023

To investigate the thermal structure of central Te Riu a Māui/Zealandia continent we estimate the depth to base of magnetic sources (DBMS), using an updated compilation of magnetic data. We calculate thousands of power spectral density estimates and solve an analytic solution for the fractal distribution of magnetization using a Bayesian method constrained by a sediment thickness model. Our DBMS results are broadly similar to a global model yet show complex relationships with independent models of crust and elastic thicknesses, and depth to base of seismicity (D90). Across central Zealandia, DBMS occurs above, coincident with, and below the Moho reflecting that factors additional to temperature influence DBMS. Away from subduction zones crustal thickness likely modulates DBMS while plate margins show varying influence dependent on margin characteristics. In the Taupō Volcanic Zone we interpret DBMS to reflect Curie point temperature at an average depth of 9–11 km. Error analysis shows that the choice of prior influences the posterior standard deviation and can result in counter intuitive error versus DBMS relationships. We use the DBMS as a basal temperature isotherm in heat flow models to compare with heat flow derived from borehole temperature measurements. Using the standard Curie point temperature of 580°C we find that DBMS derived heat flow models over estimate heat flow in areas underlain by plutonic rocks. We propose this reflects a higher titanomagnetite content in these rocks, although detailed studies of the magnetic mineralogy of Zealandia's plutonic rocks are required.
Tracking Mesoscale Convective Systems in IMERG and Regional Variability of Their Properties in the Tropics
Authors: Rajagopal Manikandan , Russell James , Skok Gregor , Zipser Edward
Published: December 2023

Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) constitute only a fraction of convective systems in the tropics but significantly impact tropical weather and global climate. Early studies used satellite infrared (IR) data to track MCSs and study their properties but only for a short period due to computing limitations. Though valuable, the IR brightness temperature (Tb)‐derived precipitation properties have biases. The recent availability of Integrated Multi‐satEllite Retrieval for Global (IMERG) precipitation mission rainfall data of lesser bias than IR Tb‐based rainfall and access to high‐performance computers motivated us to track MCSs over global tropics for 10 years, using the Forward in Time (FiT) algorithm. Though IMERG is advantageous, it poses challenges to tracking MCSs due to convective systems connected by light rain areas and resolution differences between contributing passive microwave sensors. The precipitation field is smoothed and normalized to overcome these problems; then, the FiT algorithm identifies MCSs and tracks them. Our results show that MCSs contribute ∼70% of annual precipitation, though they are only ∼7% of all tracked systems. MCSs occur more often over the Amazon basin and Maritime Continent than in central Africa, known for high thunderstorm frequency, highlighting the contrasting convective regimes. The large, long‐lived, and intensely precipitating MCSs occur more often over the ocean than land, except for the Amazon basin. Fast‐moving MCSs often occur over West Africa, the Amazon basin, and the western Pacific, whereas slow‐moving MCSs are common over Colombia and the Maritime Continent.
A resource of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines including clinical, genomic, and cellular data from genetically isolated families with mood and psychotic disorders
Authors: Detera-Wadleigh Sevilla D. , Kassem Layla , Besancon Emily , Lopes Fabiana , Akula Nirmala , Sung Heejong , Blattner Meghan , Sheridan Laura , Lacbawan Ley Nadine , Garcia Joshua , Gordovez Francis , Hosey Katherine , Donner Cassandra , Salvini Claudio , Schulze Thomas , Chen David T. W. , England Bryce , Cross Joanna , Jiang Xueying , Corona Winston , Russ Jill , Mallon Barbara , Dutra Amalia , Pak Evgenia , Steiner Joe , Malik Nasir , de Guzman Theresa , Horato Natia , Mallmann Mariana B. , Mendes Victoria , Dűck Amanda L. , Nardi Antonio E. , McMahon Francis J.
Published: December 2023

Genome-wide (GWAS) and copy number variant (CNV) association studies have reproducibly identified numerous risk alleles associated with bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and schizophrenia (SCZ), but biological characterization of these alleles lags gene discovery, owing to the inaccessibility of live human brain cells and inadequate animal models for human psychiatric conditions. Human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a renewable cellular reagent that can be differentiated into living, disease-relevant cells and 3D brain organoids carrying the full complement of genetic variants present in the donor germline. Experimental studies of iPSC-derived cells allow functional characterization of risk alleles, establishment of causal relationships between genes and neurobiology, and screening for novel therapeutics. Here we report the creation and availability of an iPSC resource comprising clinical, genomic, and cellular data obtained from genetically isolated families with BD and related conditions. Results from the first 324 study participants, 61 of whom have validated pluripotent clones, show enrichment of rare single nucleotide variants and CNVs overlapping many known risk genes and pathogenic CNVs. This growing iPSC resource is available to scientists pursuing functional genomic studies of BD and related conditions.
Amyloid precursor protein facilitates SARS-CoV-2 virus entry into cells and enhances amyloid-β-associated pathology in APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Chen Jiang , Chen Junsheng , Lei Zhifeng , Zhang Fengning , Zeng Ling-Hui , Wu Ximei , Li Song , Tan Jun
Published: December 2023

Although there are indications of a trend towards less severe acute respiratory symptoms and a decline in overall lethality from the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), more and more attention has been paid to the long COVID, including the increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in COVID-19 patients. In this study, we aim to investigate the involvement of N-terminal amyloid precursor protein (APP) in SARS-CoV-2-induced amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology. Utilizing both in vitro and in vivo methodologies, we first investigated the interaction between the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and N-terminal APP via LSPR and CoIP assays. The in vitro impacts of APP overexpression on virus infection were further evaluated in HEK293T/ACE2 cells, SH-SY5Y cells, and Vero cells. We also analyzed the pseudovirus infection in vivo in a mouse model overexpressing human wild-type APP. Finally, we evaluated the impact of APP on pseudovirus infection within human brain organoids and assessed the chronic effects of pseudovirus infection on Aβ levels. We reported here for the first time that APP, the precursor of the Aβ of AD, interacts with the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, both in vivo and in vitro data further indicated that APP promotes the cellular entry of the virus, and exacerbates Aβ-associated pathology in the APP/PS1 mouse model of AD, which can be ameliorated by N-terminal APP blockage. Our findings provide experimental evidence to interpret APP-related mechanisms underlying AD-like neuropathology in COVID-19 patients and may pave the way to help inform risk management and therapeutic strategies against diseases accordingly.
Peripheral monocytes and neutrophils promote photoreceptor cell death in an experimental retinal detachment model
Authors: Maidana Daniel E. , Gonzalez-Buendia Lucia , Pastor-Puente Sara , Naqvi Afsar , Paschalis Eleftherios , Kazlauskas Andrius , Miller Joan W. , Vavvas Demetrios G.
Published: December 2023

Photoreceptor cell death and immune cell infiltration are two major events that contribute to retinal degeneration. However, the relationship between these two events has not been well delineated, primarily because of an inadequate understanding of the immunological processes involved in photoreceptor degeneration, especially that of peripheral leukocytes that infiltrate the subretinal space and retinal tissues. In this work, we characterized the role of leukocyte infiltration within the detached retina. We observed that CD45+CD11b+Ly6G+neutrophils and CD45+CD11b+Ly6G−Ly6C+monocytes are the predominant peripheral immune cell populations that infiltrate the retinal and subretinal space after detachment. Selective depletion of monocytes or neutrophils using cell-specific targeting is neuroprotective for photoreceptors. These results indicate that peripheral innate immune cells contribute to photoreceptor degeneration, and targeting these immune cell populations could be therapeutic during retinal detachment.
The duality of CXCR3 in glioblastoma: unveiling autocrine and paracrine mechanisms for novel therapeutic approaches
Authors: Chan Travis Yui Hei , Wong Jenny Sum Yee , Kiang Karrie Mei-Yee , Sun Cherry Won Yuet , Leung Gilberto Ka-Kit
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor associated with limited therapeutic options and a poor prognosis. CXCR3, a chemokine receptor, serves dual autocrine–paracrine functions in cancer. Despite gaps in our understanding of the functional role of the CXCR3 receptor in GBM, it has been shown to hold promise as a therapeutic target for the treatment of GBM. Existing clinical therapeutics and vaccines targeting CXCR3 ligand expression associated with the CXCR3 axes have also shown anti-tumorigenic effects in GBM. This review summarizes existing evidence on the oncogenic function of CXCR3 and its ligands CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11, in GBM, and examines the controversies concerning the immunomodulatory functions of the CXCR3 receptor, including immune T cell recruitment, polarization, and positioning. The mechanisms underlying monotherpies and combination therapies targeting the CXCR3 pathways are discussed. A better understanding of the CXCR3 axes may lead to the development of strategies for overcoming the limitations of existing immunotherapies for GBM.
Upregulation of FAM83F by c-Myc promotes cervical cancer growth and aerobic glycolysis via Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation
Authors: Zhang Changlin , Liu Lixiang , Li Weizhao , Li Mengxiong , Zhang Xunzhi , Zhang Chi , Yang Huan , Xie Jiayuan , Pan Wei , Guo Xue , She Peng , Zhong Li , Li Tian
Published: December 2023

Cervical cancer (CC) seriously affects women’s health. Therefore, elucidation of the exact mechanisms and identification of novel therapeutic targets are urgently needed. In this study, we identified FAM83F, which was highly expressed in CC cells and tissues, as a potential target. Our clinical data revealed that FAM83F protein expression was markedly elevated in CC tissues and was positively correlated with poor prognosis. Moreover, we observed that FAM83F knockdown significantly inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and suppressed glycolysis in CC cells, while its overexpression displayed opposite effects. Mechanistically, FAM83F regulated CC cell growth and glycolysis by the modulation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The enhancing effects of FAM83F overexpression on CC cell proliferation and glycolysis could be impaired by the Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor XAV939. Moreover, we found that c-Myc bound to the FAM83F promoter and activated the transcription of FAM83F. Notably, knockdown of FAM83F impaired the enhancement of cell proliferation and glycolysis induced by ectopic c-Myc. Consistent with in vitro findings, results from a xenograft mouse model confirmed the promoting role of FAM83F. In summary, our study demonstrated that FAM83F promoted CC growth and glycolysis through regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, suggesting that FAM83F may be a potential molecular target for CC treatment.
The multifaceted roles of GSDME-mediated pyroptosis in cancer: therapeutic strategies and persisting obstacles
Authors: Hu Yixiang , Liu Ya , Zong Lijuan , Zhang Wenyou , Liu Renzhu , Xing Qichang , Liu Zheng , Yan Qingzi , Li Wencan , Lei Haibo , Liu Xiang
Published: December 2023

Pyroptosis is a novel regulated cell death (RCD) mode associated with inflammation and innate immunity. Gasdermin E (GSDME), a crucial component of the gasdermin (GSDM) family proteins, has the ability to convert caspase-3-mediated apoptosis to pyroptosis of cancer cells and activate anti-tumor immunity. Accumulating evidence indicates that GSDME methylation holds tremendous potential as a biomarker for early detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of tumors. In fact, GSDME-mediated pyroptosis performs a dual role in anti-tumor therapy. On the one side, pyroptotic cell death in tumors caused by GSDME contributes to inflammatory cytokines release, which transform the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) from a ‘cold’ to a ‘hot’ state and significantly improve anti-tumor immunotherapy. However, due to GSDME is expressed in nearly all body tissues and immune cells, it can exacerbate chemotherapy toxicity and partially block immune response. How to achieve a balance between the two sides is a crucial research topic. Meanwhile, the potential functions of GSDME-mediated pyroptosis in anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) therapy, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) therapy, and chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells) therapy have not yet been fully understood, and how to improve clinical outcomes persists obscure. In this review, we systematically summarize the latest research regarding the molecular mechanisms of pyroptosis and discuss the role of GSDME-mediated pyroptosis in anti-tumor immunity and its potential applications in cancer treatment.
Optimal timing of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir treatment after COVID-19 symptom onset or diagnosis: target trial emulation
Authors: Wong Carlos K. H. , Lau Jonathan J. , Au Ivan C. H. , Lau Kristy T. K. , Hung Ivan F. N. , Peiris Malik , Leung Gabriel M. , Wu Joseph T.
Published: December 2023

Reports of symptomatic rebound and/or test re-positivity among COVID-19 patients following the standard five-day treatment course of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir have sparked debates regarding optimal treatment timing and dosage. It is unclear whether initiating nirmatrelvir/ritonavir immediately after symptom onset would improve clinical outcomes and/or lead to post-treatment viral burden rebound due to inadequate viral clearance during treatment. Here we show that, by emulating a randomized target trial using real-world electronic medical record data from all 87,070 adult users of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in Hong Kong between 16th March 2022 and 15th January 2023, early initiation of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir treatment (0 to 1 days after symptom onset or diagnosis) significantly reduced the incidence of 28-day all-cause mortality and hospitalization compared to delayed initiation (2 or more days) (absolute risk reduction [ARR]: 1.50% (95% confidence interval 1.17-1.80%); relative risk [RR]: 0.77 (0.73, 0.82)), but may be associated with a significant elevated risk of viral burden rebound (ARR: −1.08% (−1.55%, −0.46%)), although the latter estimates were associated with high uncertainty due to limited sample sizes. As such, patients should continue to initiate nirmatrelvir/ritonavir early after symptom onset or diagnosis to better protect against the more serious outcomes of hospitalization and mortality.
Local energetic frustration conservation in protein families and superfamilies
Authors: Freiberger Maria I. , Ruiz-Serra Victoria , Pontes Camila , Romero-Durana Miguel , Galaz-Davison Pablo , Ramírez-Sarmiento Cesar A. , Schuster Claudio D. , Marti Marcelo A. , Wolynes Peter G. , Ferreiro Diego U. , Parra R. Gonzalo , Valencia Alfonso
Published: December 2023

Energetic local frustration offers a biophysical perspective to interpret the effects of sequence variability on protein families. Here we present a methodology to analyze local frustration patterns within protein families and superfamilies that allows us to uncover constraints related to stability and function, and identify differential frustration patterns in families with a common ancestry. We analyze these signals in very well studied protein families such as PDZ, SH3, ɑ and β globins and RAS families. Recent advances in protein structure prediction make it possible to analyze a vast majority of the protein space. An automatic and unsupervised proteome-wide analysis on the SARS-CoV-2 virus demonstrates the potential of our approach to enhance our understanding of the natural phenotypic diversity of protein families beyond single protein instances. We apply our method to modify biophysical properties of natural proteins based on their family properties, as well as perform unsupervised analysis of large datasets to shed light on the physicochemical signatures of poorly characterized proteins such as the ones belonging to emergent pathogens.
Genome-wide association study meta-analysis of blood pressure traits and hypertension in sub-Saharan African populations: an AWI-Gen study
Authors: Singh Surina , Choudhury Ananyo , Hazelhurst Scott , Crowther Nigel J. , Boua Palwendé R. , Sorgho Hermann , Agongo Godfred , Nonterah Engelbert A. , Micklesfield Lisa K. , Norris Shane A. , Kisiangani Isaac , Mohamed Shukri , Gómez-Olivé Francesc X. , Tollman Stephen M. , Choma Solomon , Brandenburg J-T. , Ramsay Michèle
Published: December 2023

Most hypertension-related genome-wide association studies (GWASs) focus on non-African populations, despite hypertension (a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease) being highly prevalent in Africa. The AWI-Gen study GWAS meta-analysis for blood pressure (BP)-related traits (systolic and diastolic BP, pulse pressure, mean-arterial pressure and hypertension) from three sub-Saharan African geographic regions (N = 10,775), identifies two novel genome-wide significant signals (p < 5E-08): systolic BP near P2RY1 (rs77846204; intergenic variant, p = 4.95E-08) and pulse pressure near LINC01256 (rs80141533; intergenic variant, p = 1.76E-08). No genome-wide signals are detected for the AWI-Gen GWAS meta-analysis with previous African-ancestry GWASs (UK Biobank (African), Uganda Genome Resource). Suggestive signals (p < 5E-06) are observed for all traits, with 29 SNPs associating with more than one trait and several replicating known associations. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) developed from studies on different ancestries have limited transferability, with multi-ancestry PRS providing better prediction. This study provides insights into the genetics of BP variation in African populations.
Highly stretchable polymer semiconductor thin films with multi-modal energy dissipation and high relative stretchability
Authors: Wu Hung-Chin , Nikzad Shayla , Zhu Chenxin , Yan Hongping , Li Yang , Niu Weijun , Matthews James R. , Xu Jie , Matsuhisa Naoji , Arunachala Prajwal Kammardi , Rastak Reza , Linder Christian , Zheng Yu-Qing , Toney Michael F. , He Mingqian , Bao Zhenan
Published: December 2023

Stretchable polymer semiconductors (PSCs) have seen great advancements alongside the development of soft electronics. But it remains a challenge to simultaneously achieve high charge carrier mobility and stretchability. Herein, we report the finding that stretchable PSC thin films (<100-nm-thick) with high stretchability tend to exhibit multi-modal energy dissipation mechanisms and have a large relative stretchability (rS) defined by the ratio of the entropic energy dissipation to the enthalpic energy dissipation under strain. They effectively recovered the original molecular ordering, as well as electrical performance, after strain was released. The highest rS value with a model polymer (P4) exhibited an average charge carrier mobility of 0.2 cm2V−1s−1 under 100% biaxial strain, while PSCs with low rS values showed irreversible morphology changes and rapid degradation of electrical performance under strain. These results suggest rS can be used as a parameter to compare the reliability and reversibility of stretchable PSC thin films.
Efficient industrial-current-density acetylene to polymer-grade ethylene via hydrogen-localization transfer over fluorine-modified copper
Authors: Bai Lei , Wang Yi , Han Zheng , Bai Jinbo , Leng Kunyue , Zheng Lirong , Qu Yunteng , Wu Yuen
Published: December 2023

Electrocatalytic acetylene semi-hydrogenation to ethylene powered by renewable electricity represents a sustainable pathway, but the inadequate current density and single-pass yield greatly impedes the production efficiency and industrial application. Herein, we develop a F-modified Cu catalyst that shows an industrial partial current density up to 0.76 A cm−2 with an ethylene Faradic efficiency surpass 90%, and the maximum single-pass yield reaches a notable 78.5%. Furthermore, the Cu-F showcase the capability to directly convert acetylene into polymer-grade ethylene in a tandem flow cell, almost no acetylene residual in the production. Combined characterizations and calculations reveal that the Cuδ+ (near fluorine) enhances the water dissociation, and the generated active hydrogen are immediately transferred to Cu0 (away from fluorine) and react with the locally adsorbed acetylene. Therefore, the hydrogen evolution reaction is surpassed and the overall acetylene semi-hydrogenation performance is boosted. Our findings provide new opportunity towards rational design of catalysts for large-scale electrosynthesis of ethylene and other important industrial raw.
Mitochondrial malfunction and atrophy of astrocytes in the aged human cerebral cortex
Authors: Popov Alexander , Brazhe Nadezda , Morozova Kseniia , Yashin Konstantin , Bychkov Maxim , Nosova Olga , Sutyagina Oksana , Brazhe Alexey , Parshina Evgenia , Li Li , Medyanik Igor , Korzhevskii Dmitry E. , Shenkarev Zakhar , Lyukmanova Ekaterina , Verkhratsky Alexei , Semyanov Alexey
Published: December 2023

How aging affects cells of the human brain active milieu remains largely unknown. Here, we analyze astrocytes and neurons in the neocortical tissue of younger (22–50 years) and older (51–72 years) adults. Aging decreases the amount of reduced mitochondrial cytochromes in astrocytes but not neurons. The protein-to-lipid ratio decreases in astrocytes and increases in neurons. Aged astrocytes show morphological atrophy quantified by the decreased length of branches, decreased volume fraction of leaflets, and shrinkage of the anatomical domain. Atrophy correlates with the loss of gap junction coupling between astrocytes and increased input resistance. Aging is accompanied by the upregulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and downregulation of membrane-cytoskeleton linker ezrin associated with leaflets. No significant changes in neuronal excitability or spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic signaling is observed. Thus, brain aging is associated with the impaired morphological presence and mitochondrial malfunction of cortical astrocytes, but not neurons.
UV-curable thiol-ene system for broadband infrared transparent objects
Authors: Ye Piaoran , Hong Zhihan , Loy Douglas A. , Liang Rongguang
Published: December 2023

Conventional infrared transparent materials, including inorganic ceramic, glass, and sulfur-rich organic materials, are usually processed through thermal or mechanical progress. Here, we report a photo-curable liquid material based on a specially designed thiol-ene strategy, where the multithiols and divinyl oligomers were designed to contain only C, H, and S atoms. This approach ensures transparency in a wide range spectrum from visible light to mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and to long-wave infrared (LWIR). The refractive index, thermal properties, and mechanical properties of samples prepared by this thiol-ene resin were characterized. Objects transparent to LWIR and MWIR were fabricated by molding and two-photon 3D printing techniques. We demonstrated the potential of our material in a range of applications, including the fabrication of IR optics with high imaging resolution and the construction of micro-reactors for temperature monitoring. This UV-curable thiol-ene system provides a fast and convenient alternative for the fabrication of thin IR transparent objects.
Microgravity triggers ferroptosis and accelerates senescence in the MG-63 cell model of osteoblastic cells
Authors: Garbacki Nancy , Willems Jérôme , Neutelings Thibaut , Lambert Charles , Deroanne Christophe , Adrian Astrid , Franz Markus , Maurer Matthias , De Gieter Philippe , Nusgens Betty , Colige Alain
Published: December 2023

In space, cells sustain strong modifications of their mechanical environment. Mechanosensitive molecules at the cell membrane regulate mechanotransduction pathways that induce adaptive responses through the regulation of gene expression, post-translational modifications, protein interactions or intracellular trafficking, among others. In the current study, human osteoblastic cells were cultured on the ISS in microgravity and at 1 g in a centrifuge, as onboard controls. RNAseq analyses showed that microgravity inhibits cell proliferation and DNA repair, stimulates inflammatory pathways and induces ferroptosis and senescence, two pathways related to ageing. Morphological hallmarks of senescence, such as reduced nuclear size and changes in chromatin architecture, proliferation marker distribution, tubulin acetylation and lysosomal transport were identified by immunofluorescence microscopy, reinforcing the hypothesis of induction of cell senescence in microgravity during space flight. These processes could be attributed, at least in part, to the regulation of YAP1 and its downstream effectors NUPR1 and CKAP2L.
Treatment of schizophrenia evaluated via the pharmacopsychometric triangle—An integrative approach with emphasis on well-being and functioning
Authors: Kølbæk Pernille , Mors Ole , Correll Christoph U. , Østergaard Søren D.
Published: December 2023

Quantification of treatment response is crucial to optimize outcomes for patients with schizophrenia. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between quantitative measures of clinician-rated symptom severity and self-rated side effects, well-being, and functioning among inpatients with schizophrenia using the six-item version of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS-6), the Glasgow Antipsychotic Side-effect Scale (GASS), the WHO-Five Well-being Index (WHO-5), and the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS). All measurements were conducted as close to admission and discharge as possible. Well-being and functioning were found to be most strongly associated with the additive effect of symptoms and side effects, while changes in side effects, well-being, and functioning appeared to be relatively independent from changes in symptom severity. The use of both symptom and side effect measures should inform clinical decision-making in the treatment of schizophrenia, as it has the potential to optimize functioning and well-being.
Transcriptional signatures of the whole-brain voxel-wise resting-state functional network centrality alterations in schizophrenia
Authors: Guo Lining , Ma Juanwei , Cai Mengjing , Zhang Minghui , Xu Qiang , Wang He , Zhang Yijing , Yao Jia , Sun Zuhao , Chen Yayuan , Xue Hui , Zhang Yujie , Wang Shaoying , Xue Kaizhong , Zhu Dan , Liu Feng
Published: December 2023

Neuroimaging studies have revealed that patients with schizophrenia exhibit disrupted resting-state functional connectivity. However, the inconsistent findings across these studies have hindered our comprehensive understanding of the functional connectivity changes associated with schizophrenia, and the molecular mechanisms associated with these alterations remain largely unclear. A quantitative meta-analysis was first conducted on 21 datasets, involving 1057 patients and 1186 healthy controls, to examine disrupted resting-state functional connectivity in schizophrenia, as measured by whole-brain voxel-wise functional network centrality (FNC). Subsequently, partial least squares regression analysis was employed to investigate the relationship between FNC changes and gene expression profiles obtained from the Allen Human Brain Atlas database. Finally, gene enrichment analysis was performed to unveil the biological significance of the altered FNC-related genes. Compared with healthy controls, patients with schizophrenia show consistently increased FNC in the right inferior parietal cortex extending to the supramarginal gyrus, angular gyrus, bilateral medial prefrontal cortex, and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, while decreased FNC in the bilateral insula, bilateral postcentral gyrus, and right inferior temporal gyrus. Meta-regression analysis revealed that increased FNC in the right inferior parietal cortex was positively correlated with clinical score. In addition, these observed functional connectivity changes were found to be spatially associated with the brain-wide expression of specific genes, which were enriched in diverse biological pathways and cell types. These findings highlight the aberrant functional connectivity observed in schizophrenia and its potential molecular underpinnings, providing valuable insights into the neuropathology of dysconnectivity associated with this disorder.
A dataset of low-carbon energy transition index for Chinese cities 2003–2019
Authors: Shen Yifan , Shi Xunpeng , Zhao Zhibo , Xu Jinghang , Sun Yongping , Liao Zhenliang , Li Yingzhu , Shan Yuli
Published: December 2023

Cities are at the heart of climate change mitigation as they account for over 70% of global carbon emissions. However, cities vary in their energy systems and socioeconomic capacities to transition to renewable energy. To address this heterogeneity, this study proposes an Energy Transition Index (ETI) specifically designed for cities, and applies it to track the progress of energy transition in Chinese cities. The city-level ETI framework is based on the national ETI developed by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and comprises two sub-indexes: the Energy System Performance sub-index, which evaluates the current status of cities’ energy systems in terms of energy transition, and the Transition Readiness sub-index, which assesses their socioeconomic capacity for future energy transition. The initial version of the dataset includes ETI and its sub-indexes for 282 Chinese cities from 2003 to 2019, with annual updates planned. The spatiotemporal data provided by the dataset facilitates research into the energy transition roadmap for different cities, which can help China achieve its energy transition goals.
Random mutagenesis of Phaeodactylum tricornutum using ultraviolet, chemical, and X-ray irradiation demonstrates the need for temporal analysis of phenotype stability
Authors: Macdonald Miller Sean , Abbriano Raffaela M. , Herdean Andrei , Banati Richard , Ralph Peter J. , Pernice Mathieu
Published: December 2023

We investigated two non-ionising mutagens in the form of ultraviolet radiation (UV) and ethyl methanosulfonate (EMS) and an ionising mutagen (X-ray) as methods to increase fucoxanthin content in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. We implemented an ultra-high throughput method using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and live culture spectral deconvolution for isolation and screening of potential pigment mutants, and assessed phenotype stability by measuring pigment content over 6 months using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to investigate the viability of long-term mutants. Both UV and EMS resulted in significantly higher fucoxanthin within the 6 month period after treatment, likely as a result of phenotype instability. A maximum fucoxanthin content of 135 ± 10% wild-type found in the EMS strain, a 35% increase. We found mutants generated using all methods underwent reversion to the wild-type phenotype within a 6 month time period. X-ray treatments produced a consistently unstable phenotype even at the maximum treatment of 1000 Grays, while a UV mutant and an EMS mutant reverted to wild-type after 4 months and 6 months, respectively, despite showing previously higher fucoxanthin than wild-type. This work provides new insights into key areas of microalgal biotechnology, by (i) demonstrating the use of an ionising mutagen (X-ray) on a biotechnologically relevant microalga, and by (ii) introducing temporal analysis of mutants which has substantial implications for strain creation and utility for industrial applications.
Experimental study on failure characteristics and rheological properties of pillar-like rock samples with different shapes
Authors: Guo Wen-bing , Wang Bi-bi , Tan Yi , Zhao Gao-bo , Bai Er-hu , Guo Ming-jie , Wen Peng , Ma Zhi-bao , Yang Wei-qiang , Wu Dong-tao
Published: December 2023

The stability of coal pillar is extremely important to the control of rock strata movement and surface subsidence. It is of great significance for mining design to analyze the stability and failure characteristics of coal and rock pillars left after mining and to study the failure characteristics and rheological properties of coal and rock with different shapes. In this paper, based on uniaxial compression and rheological tests on rock samples, the rheological properties of rock samples with different shapes were discussed by using the nonlinear theoretical mechanics and damage theory, and the rheological mechanical characteristics of coarse yellow sandstone samples under the action of different free surface areas and the same loading contact area were investigated by means of experimental research, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation. The following conclusions were drawn: the failure characteristics and dynamic change process of rock samples with different shapes under the same loading contact area are obtained by uniaxial compression test and multi-stage rheological loading. The uniaxial compressive strengths of rock samples with the same loading contact surface area and different free surface areas are inversely proportional to their free surface areas. For the round sample, the stress level in the rheological test is obviously lower than the instantaneous peak uniaxial compression strength, while for the other samples, the stress level in the rheological test is close to the instantaneous peak uniaxial compression strength. For rock all these samples, both the ratio of steady-state rheological time to final failure time and the deformation degree decrease with the increase of free surface area.
Predictors of frequency of 1-year readmission in adult patients with diabetes
Authors: Soh Jade Gek Sang , Mukhopadhyay Amartya , Mohankumar Bhuvaneshwari , Quek Swee Chye , Tai Bee Choo
Published: December 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the third most common chronic condition associated with frequent hospital readmissions. Predictors of the number of readmissions within 1 year among patients with DM are less often studied compared with those of 30-day readmission. This study aims to identify predictors of number of readmissions within 1 year amongst adult patients with DM and compare different count regression models with respect to model fit. Data from 2008 to 2015 were extracted from the electronic medical records of the National University Hospital, Singapore. Inpatients aged ≥ 18 years at the time of index admission with a hospital stay > 24 h and survived until discharge were included. The zero-inflated negative binomial (ZINB) model was fitted and compared with three other count models (Poisson, zero-inflated Poisson and negative binomial) in terms of predicted probabilities, misclassification proportions and model fit. Adjusted for other variables in the model, the expected number of readmissions was 1.42 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07 to 1.90) for peripheral vascular disease, 1.60 (95% CI 1.34 to 1.92) for renal disease and 2.37 (95% CI 1.67 to 3.35) for Singapore residency. Number of emergency visits, number of drugs and age were other significant predictors, with length of stay fitted as a zero-inflated component. Model comparisons suggested that ZINB provides better prediction than the other three count models. The ZINB model identified five patient characteristics and two comorbidities associated with number of readmissions. It outperformed other count regression models but should be validated before clinical adoption.
Defensive medicine practices as a result of malpractice claims and workplace physical violence: a cross-sectional study from Egypt
Authors: Arafa Ahmed , Negida Ahmed , Elsheikh Mohamed , Emadeldin Mohamed , Hegazi Hesham , Senosy Shaimaa
Published: December 2023

Defensive medicine refers to practices motivated mainly by legal rather than medical purposes. Increased healthcare costs, overutilization of medical services, and potential harm to patients from unnecessary procedures are among its drawbacks. We performed this study to assess the prevalence of defensive medicine practices in Egypt and their associations with experiencing malpractice claims and workplace physical violence. We investigated 1797 physicians (68.1% male), with an average age of 36.8 ± 9.1 years, practicing in Egypt between January 14th and February 23rd, 2023. SPSS was used for statistical analysis. The majority reported engaging in defensive medicine practices. Specifically, 89.6% acknowledged avoiding high-risk procedures, 87.8% refrained from treating high-risk patients, 86.8% admitted to making unnecessary referrals, 84.9% acknowledged ordering unnecessary tests, 61.4% reported performing unnecessary procedures, and 56.4% disclosed prescribing unnecessary medications. Obstetricians and surgeons exhibited the highest rates of defensive medicine. Using linear regression analysis adjusted for age and sex, malpractice claims and workplace physical violence were associated with defensive medicine score (zero-100): βs (95% CIs) = 5.05 (3.10, 6.99) and 5.60 (3.50, 7.71), respectively, (p values < 0.001). In conclusion, defensive medicine is deeply ingrained in the clinical routines of Egyptian physicians. Establishing a comprehensive national medical liability framework is required.