bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RECOLLECTIONS OF MY TIME AT THE HISTORY OF ECONOMICS SOCIETY
Authors: Boianovsky Mauro
Published: February 2024

The History of Economics Society (HES)—together with its Journal of the History of Economic Thought (JHET)—has played an important role in my activities as a historian of economic thought, from my early exciting days as a graduate student in 1994–95 to my term as HES president in 2016–17, and beyond. As I join the celebrations of the fiftieth anniversary of the HES, I would like to offer some historiographic perspectives on its history as based mostly on my shared memories and personal trajectory. My first participation at a HES conference took place in 1994, when I presented a paper in the history of macroeconomics. Those meetings were presided, at Babson College (Boston), by Laurence Moss, who used the “Perlman system” of paper presentation by the discussants followed by reactions by the authors. I was lucky to have Bradley Bateman as my discussant. Brad kindly agreed with the argument of my paper about Frederick Barnard Hawley’s anticipation of John Maynard Keynes’s principle of effective demand, published two years later in the History of Political Economy (HOPE).
Evaluation of three prediction formulas of 24-hour urinary sodium excretion in Chinese residents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qi Zijing , Tang Shuai , Wu Beike , Li Yanxing , Yang Hongmei , Wang Kunbo , Li Zhifang
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To determine the appropriateness of three widely used formulas estimating 24-h urinary Na (24hUNa) from spot urine samples in the Chinese population.

Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Setting:

Literature review was conducted to identify studies for estimating 24hUNa using the Kawasaki, Tanaka and INTERSALT formulas simultaneously in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane library databases. The mean difference (MD) and correlation coefficients (r) between measures and estimates from different formulas were assessed.

Participants:

Information extraction and quality assessment were performed in thirteen studies involving 8369 subjects.

Results:

Two studies which affected the overall robustness were excluded in the ‘leave-one-out’ sensitivity analyses. Within the final meta-analysis included eleven studies and 7197 participants, 36·07 mmol/d (95 %CI 16·89, 55·25) of MD was observed in the Kawasaki formula, and –19·62 mmol/d (95 %CI –37·37, –1·87) in the Tanaka formula and –35·78 mmol/d (95 %CI –50·76, –20·80) in the INTERSALT formula; a pooled r-Fisher’s Z of 0·39 (95 %CI 0·32, 0·45) in the Kawasaki formula, 0·43 (95 %CI 0·37, 0·49) in the Tanaka formula and 0·36 (95 %CI 0·31, 0·42) in the INTERSALT formula. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the possible factors affecting the accuracy of the formula estimation from three mainly aspects: population types, Na intake levels and urine specimen types.

Conclusions:

The meta-analysis suggested that the Tanaka formula performed a more accurate estimate in Chinese population. Time of collecting spot urine specimens and Na intake level of the sample population might be the main factors affecting the accuracy of the formula estimation.
Short but Sweet: How Nano-Training Expanded our Reach
Authors: Flerlage Beth
Published: February 2024

In this article, Beth Flerlage, an assistant librarian at The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, discusses the Middle Temple Library's experience in developing a nano-training platform for members. It details the creative process and describes how the organisation reviews the content using data from YouTube Studio.
Stable, intense supercontinuum light generation at 1 kHz by electric field assisted femtosecond laser filamentation in air
Authors: Liu Yaoxiang , Yin Fukang , Wang Tie-Jun , Leng Yuxin , Li Ruxin , Xu Zhizhan , Chin See Leang
Published: February 2024

Supercontinuum (SC) light source has advanced ultrafast laser spectroscopy in condensed matter science, biology, physics, and chemistry. Compared to the frequently used photonic crystal fibers and bulk materials, femtosecond laser filamentation in gases is damage-immune for supercontinuum generation. A bottleneck problem is the strong jitters from filament induced self-heating at kHz repetition rate level. We demonstrated stable kHz supercontinuum generation directly in air with multiple mJ level pulse energy. This was achieved by applying an external DC electric field to the air plasma filament. Beam pointing jitters of the 1 kHz air filament induced SC light were reduced by more than 2 fold. The stabilized high repetition rate laser filament offers the opportunity for stable intense SC generation and its applications in air.
Diagnostic uplift through the implementation of short tandem repeat analysis using exome sequencing
Authors: Yoon Jihoon G. , Lee Seungbok , Cho Jaeso , Kim Narae , Kim Sheehyun , Kim Man Jin , Kim Soo Yeon , Moon Jangsup , Chae Jong-Hee
Published: February 2024

To date, approximately 50 short tandem repeat (STR) disorders have been identified; yet, clinical laboratories rarely conduct STR analysis on exomes. To assess its diagnostic value, we analyzed STRs in 6099 exomes from 2510 families with mostly suspected neurogenetic disorders. We employed ExpansionHunter and REViewer to detect pathogenic repeat expansions, confirming them using orthogonal methods. Genotype-phenotype correlations led to the diagnosis of thirteen individuals in seven previously undiagnosed families, identifying three autosomal dominant disorders: dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy (n = 3), spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (n = 2), and myotonic dystrophy type 1 (n = 2), resulting in a diagnostic gain of 0.28% (7/2510). Additionally, we found expanded ATXN1 alleles (≥39 repeats) with varying patterns of CAT interruptions in twelve individuals, accounting for approximately 0.19% in the Korean population. Our study underscores the importance of integrating STR analysis into exome sequencing pipeline, broadening the application of exome sequencing for STR assessments.
Early onset diagnosis in Alzheimer’s disease patients via amyloid-β oligomers-sensing probe in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: An Jusung , Kim Kyeonghwan , Lim Ho Jae , Kim Hye Yun , Shin Jinwoo , Park InWook , Cho Illhwan , Kim Hyeong Yun , Kim Sunghoon , McLean Catriona , Choi Kyu Yeong , Kim YoungSoo , Lee Kun Ho , Kim Jong Seung
Published: February 2024

Amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers are implicated in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Herein, quinoline-derived half-curcumin-dioxaborine (Q-OB) fluorescent probe was designed for detecting Aβ oligomers by finely tailoring the hydrophobicity of the biannulate donor motifs in donor-π-acceptor structure. Q-OB shows a great sensing potency in dynamically monitoring oligomerization of Aβ during amyloid fibrillogenesis in vitro. In addition, we applied this strategy to fluorometrically analyze Aβ self-assembly kinetics in the cerebrospinal fluids (CSF) of AD patients. The fluorescence intensity of Q-OB in AD patients’ CSF revealed a marked change of log (I/I0) value of 0.34 ± 0.13 (cognitive normal), 0.15 ± 0.12 (mild cognitive impairment), and 0.14 ± 0.10 (AD dementia), guiding to distinguish a state of AD continuum for early diagnosis of AD. These studies demonstrate the potential of our approach can expand the currently available preclinical diagnostic platform for the early stages of AD, aiding in the disruption of pathological progression and the development of appropriate treatment strategies.
R-Spondin 2 governs Xenopus left-right body axis formation by establishing an FGF signaling gradient
Authors: Lee Hyeyoon , Camuto Celine Marie , Niehrs Christof
Published: February 2024

Establishment of the left-right (LR, sinistral, dextral) body axis in many vertebrate embryos relies on cilia-driven leftward fluid flow within an LR organizer (LRO). A cardinal question is how leftward flow triggers symmetry breakage. The chemosensation model posits that ciliary flow enriches a signaling molecule on the left side of the LRO that promotes sinistral cell fate. However, the nature of this sinistralizing signal has remained elusive. In the Xenopus LRO, we identified the stem cell growth factor R-Spondin 2 (Rspo2) as a symmetrically expressed, sinistralizing signal. As predicted for a flow-mediated signal, Rspo2 operates downstream of leftward flow but upstream of the asymmetrically expressed gene dand5. Unexpectedly, in LR patterning, Rspo2 acts as an FGF receptor antagonist: Rspo2 via its TSP1 domain binds Fgfr4 and promotes its membrane clearance by Znrf3-mediated endocytosis. Concordantly, we find that at flow-stage, FGF signaling is dextralizing and forms a gradient across the LRO, high on the dextral- and low on the sinistral side. Rspo2 gain- and loss-of function equalize this FGF signaling gradient and sinistralize and dextralize development, respectively. We propose that leftward flow of Rspo2 produces an FGF signaling gradient that governs LR-symmetry breakage.
Risk of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection during multiple Omicron variant waves in the UK general population
Authors: Wei Jia , Stoesser Nicole , Matthews Philippa C. , Khera Tarnjit , Gethings Owen , Diamond Ian , Studley Ruth , Taylor Nick , Peto Tim E. A. , Walker A. Sarah , Pouwels Koen B. , Eyre David W. ,   the COVID-19 Infection Survey team, Rourke Emma , Thomas Tina , Pienaar Dawid , Preece Joy , Crofts Sarah , Lloyd Lina , Bowen Michelle , Ayoubkhani Daniel , Black Russell , Felton Antonio , Crees Megan , Jones Joel , Sutherland Esther , Crook Derrick W. , Pritchard Emma , Vihta Karina-Doris , Howarth Alison , Marsden Brian D. , Chau Kevin K. , Ferreira Lucas Martins , Dejnirattisai Wanwisa , Mongkolsapaya Juthathip , Hoosdally Sarah , Cornall Richard , Stuart David I. , Screaton Gavin , Lythgoe Katrina , Bonsall David , Golubchik Tanya , Fryer Helen , Newton John N. , Bell John I. , Cox Stuart , Paddon Kevin , James Tim , House Thomas , Robotham Julie , Birrell Paul , Jordan Helena , Sheppard Tim , Athey Graham , Moody Dan , Curry Leigh , Brereton Pamela , Jarvis Ian , Godsmark Anna , Morris George , Mallick Bobby , Eeles Phil , Hay Jodie , VanSteenhouse Harper , Lee Jessica , White Sean , Evans Tim , Bloemberg Lisa , Allison Katie , Pandya Anouska , Davis Sophie , Conway David I. , MacLeod Margaret , Cunningham Chris
Published: February 2024

SARS-CoV-2 reinfections increased substantially after Omicron variants emerged. Large-scale community-based comparisons across multiple Omicron waves of reinfection characteristics, risk factors, and protection afforded by previous infection and vaccination, are limited. Here we studied ~45,000 reinfections from the UK’s national COVID-19 Infection Survey and quantified the risk of reinfection in multiple waves, including those driven by BA.1, BA.2, BA.4/5, and BQ.1/CH.1.1/XBB.1.5 variants. Reinfections were associated with lower viral load and lower percentages of self-reporting symptoms compared with first infections. Across multiple Omicron waves, estimated protection against reinfection was significantly higher in those previously infected with more recent than earlier variants, even at the same time from previous infection. Estimated protection against Omicron reinfections decreased over time from the most recent infection if this was the previous or penultimate variant (generally within the preceding year). Those 14–180 days after receiving their most recent vaccination had a lower risk of reinfection than those >180 days from their most recent vaccination. Reinfection risk was independently higher in those aged 30–45 years, and with either low or high viral load in their most recent previous infection. Overall, the risk of Omicron reinfection is high, but with lower severity than first infections; both viral evolution and waning immunity are independently associated with reinfection.
A Gamma-adapted subunit vaccine induces broadly neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants and protects mice from infection
Authors: Coria Lorena M. , Rodriguez Juan Manuel , Demaria Agostina , Bruno Laura A. , Medrano Mayra Rios , Castro Celeste Pueblas , Castro Eliana F. , Del Priore Sabrina A. , Hernando Insua Andres C. , Kaufmann Ingrid G. , Saposnik Lucas M. , Stone William B. , Prado Lineia , Notaro Ulises S. , Amweg Ayelen N. , Diaz Pablo U. , Avaro Martin , Ortega Hugo , Ceballos Ana , Krum Valeria , Zurvarra Francisco M. , Sidabra Johanna E. , Drehe Ignacio , Baqué Jonathan A. , Li Causi Mariana , De Nichilo Analia V. , Payes Cristian J. , Southard Teresa , Vega Julio C. , Auguste Albert J. , Álvarez Diego E. , Flo Juan M. , Pasquevich Karina A. , Cassataro Juliana
Published: February 2024

In the context of continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), one strategy to prevent the severe outcomes of COVID-19 is developing safe and effective broad-spectrum vaccines. Here, we present preclinical studies of a RBD vaccine derived from the Gamma SARS-CoV-2 variant adjuvanted with Alum. The Gamma-adapted RBD vaccine is more immunogenic than the Ancestral RBD vaccine in terms of inducing broader neutralizing antibodies. The Gamma RBD presents more immunogenic B-cell restricted epitopes and induces a higher proportion of specific-B cells and plasmablasts than the Ancestral RBD version. The Gamma-adapted vaccine induces antigen specific T cell immune responses and confers protection against Ancestral and Omicron BA.5 SARS-CoV-2 challenge in mice. Moreover, the Gamma RBD vaccine induces higher and broader neutralizing antibody activity than homologous booster vaccination in mice previously primed with different SARS-CoV-2 vaccine platforms. Our study indicates that the adjuvanted Gamma RBD vaccine is highly immunogenic and a broad-spectrum vaccine candidate.
Targeting ALK averts ribonuclease 1-induced immunosuppression and enhances antitumor immunity in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Chunxiao , Zhou Chenhao , Xia Weiya , Zhou Yifan , Qiu Yufan , Weng Jialei , Zhou Qiang , Chen Wanyong , Wang Ying-Nai , Lee Heng-Huan , Wang Shao-Chun , Kuang Ming , Yu Dihua , Ren Ning , Hung Mien-Chie
Published: February 2024

Tumor-secreted factors contribute to the development of a microenvironment that facilitates the escape of cancer cells from immunotherapy. In this study, we conduct a retrospective comparison of the proteins secreted by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in responders and non-responders among a cohort of ten patients who received Nivolumab (anti-PD-1 antibody). Our findings indicate that non-responders have a high abundance of secreted RNase1, which is associated with a poor prognosis in various cancer types. Furthermore, mice implanted with HCC cells that overexpress RNase1 exhibit immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments and diminished response to anti-PD-1 therapy. RNase1 induces the polarization of macrophages towards a tumor growth-promoting phenotype through activation of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) signaling pathway. Targeting the RNase1/ALK axis reprograms the macrophage polarization, with increased CD8+ T- and Th1- cell recruitment. Moreover, simultaneous targeting of the checkpoint protein PD-1 unleashes cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell responses. Treatment utilizing both an ALK inhibitor and an anti-PD-1 antibody exhibits enhanced tumor regression and facilitates long-term immunity. Our study elucidates the role of RNase1 in mediating tumor resistance to immunotherapy and reveals an RNase1-mediated immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, highlighting the potential of targeting RNase1 as a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy in HCC.
A sequence-aware merger of genomic structural variations at population scale
Authors: Zheng Zeyu , Zhu Mingjia , Zhang Jin , Liu Xinfeng , Hou Liqiang , Liu Wenyu , Yuan Shuai , Luo Changhong , Yao Xinhao , Liu Jianquan , Yang Yongzhi
Published: February 2024

Merging structural variations (SVs) at the population level presents a significant challenge, yet it is essential for conducting comprehensive genotypic analyses, especially in the era of pangenomics. Here, we introduce PanPop, a tool that utilizes an advanced sequence-aware SV merging algorithm to efficiently merge SVs of various types. We demonstrate that PanPop can merge and optimize the majority of multiallelic SVs into informative biallelic variants. We show its superior precision and lower rates of missing data compared to alternative software solutions. Our approach not only enables the filtering of SVs by leveraging multiple SV callers for enhanced accuracy but also facilitates the accurate merging of large-scale population SVs. These capabilities of PanPop will help to accelerate future SV-related studies.
Imaging the state-to-state charge-transfer dynamics between the spin-orbit excited Ar+(2P1/2) ion and N2
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Lu Dandan , Guo Hua , Gao Hong
Published: February 2024

Ar++N2 → Ar+N2+ has served as a paradigm for charge-transfer dynamics studies during the last several decades. Despite significant experimental and theoretical efforts on this model system, state-resolved experimental investigations on the microscopic charge-transfer mechanism between the spin-orbit excited Ar+(2P1/2) ion and N2 have been rare. Here, we measure the first quantum state-to-state differential cross sections for Ar++N2 → Ar+N2+ with the Ar+ ion prepared exclusively in the spin-orbit excited state 2P1/2 on a crossed-beam setup with three-dimensional velocity-map imaging. Trajectory surface-hopping calculations qualitatively reproduce the vibrationally dependent rotational and angular distributions of the N2+ product. Both the scattering images and theoretical calculations show that the charge-transfer dynamics of the spin-orbit excited Ar+(2P1/2) ion differs significantly from that of the spin-orbit ground Ar+(2P3/2) when colliding with N2. Such state-to-state information makes quantitative understanding of this benchmark charge-transfer reaction within reach.
Dual Higgs modes entangled into a soliton lattice in CuTe
Authors: Kwon SeongJin , Jung Hyunjin , Lee SangJin , Cho Gil Young , Kong KiJeong , Won ChoongJae , Cheong Sang-Wook , Yeom Han Woong
Published: February 2024

Recently discovered Higgs particle is a key element in the standard model of elementary particles and its analogue in materials, massive Higgs mode, has elucidated intriguing collective phenomena in a wide range of materials with spontaneous symmetry breaking such as antiferromagnets, cold atoms, superconductors, superfluids, and charge density waves (CDW). As a straightforward extension beyond the standard model, multiple Higgs particles have been considered theoretically but not yet for Higgs modes. Here, we report the real-space observations, which suggest two Higgs modes coupled together with a soliton lattice in a solid. Our scanning tunneling microscopy reveals the 1D CDW state of an anisotropic transition metal monochalcogenide crystal CuTe is composed of two distinct but degenerate CDW structures by the layer inversion symmetry broken. More importantly, the amplitudes of each CDW structure oscillate in an out-of-phase fashion to result in a regular array of alternating domains with repeating phase-shift domain walls. This unusual finding is explained by the extra degeneracy in CDWs within the standard Landau theory of the free energy. The multiple and entangled Higgs modes demonstrate how novel collective modes can emerge in systems with distinct symmetries broken simultaneously.
Approaching a fully-polarized state of nuclear spins in a solid
Authors: Millington-Hotze Peter , Dyte Harry E. , Manna Santanu , Covre da Silva Saimon F. , Rastelli Armando , Chekhovich Evgeny A.
Published: February 2024

Magnetic noise of atomic nuclear spins is a major source of decoherence in solid-state spin qubits. In theory, near-unity nuclear spin polarization can eliminate decoherence of the electron spin qubit, while turning the nuclei into a useful quantum information resource. However, achieving sufficiently high nuclear polarizations has remained an evasive goal. Here we implement a nuclear spin polarization protocol which combines strong optical pumping and fast electron tunneling. Nuclear polarizations well above 95% are generated in GaAs semiconductor quantum dots on a timescale of 1 minute. The technique is compatible with standard quantum dot device designs, where highly-polarized nuclear spins can simplify implementations of qubits and quantum memories, as well as offer a testbed for studies of many-body quantum dynamics and magnetism.
Malaria seroepidemiology in very low transmission settings in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Fernandez-Camacho Bryan , Peña-Calero Brian , Guillermo-Roman Martina , Ruiz-Cabrejos Jorge , Barboza Jose Luis , Bartolini-Arana Lucia , Barja-Ingaruca Antony , Rodriguez-Ferrucci Hugo , Soto-Calle Veronica E. , Nelli Luca , Byrne Isabel , Hill Monica , Dumont Elin , Grignard Lynn , Tetteh Kevin , Wu Lindsey , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , Drakeley Chris , Stresman Gillian , Carrasco-Escobar Gabriel
Published: February 2024

Despite progress towards malaria reduction in Peru, measuring exposure in low transmission areas is crucial for achieving elimination. This study focuses on two very low transmission areas in Loreto (Peruvian Amazon) and aims to determine the relationship between malaria exposure and proximity to health facilities. Individual data was collected from 38 villages in Indiana and Belen, including geo-referenced households and blood samples for microscopy, PCR and serological analysis. A segmented linear regression model identified significant changes in seropositivity trends among different age groups. Local Getis-Ord Gi* statistic revealed clusters of households with high (hotspots) or low (coldspots) seropositivity rates. Findings from 4000 individuals showed a seropositivity level of 2.5% (95%CI: 2.0%-3.0%) for P. falciparum and 7.8% (95%CI: 7.0%-8.7%) for P. vivax, indicating recent or historical exposure. The segmented regression showed exposure reductions in the 40–50 age group (β1 = 0.043, p = 0.003) for P. vivax and the 50–60 age group (β1 = 0.005, p = 0.010) for P. falciparum. Long and extreme distance villages from Regional Hospital of Loreto exhibited higher malaria exposure compared to proximate and medium distance villages (p < 0.001). This study showed the seropositivity of malaria in two very low transmission areas and confirmed the spatial pattern of hotspots as villages become more distant.
Enhancing photovoltaic parameter estimation: integration of non-linear hunting and reinforcement learning strategies with golden jackal optimizer
Authors: Sundar Ganesh Chappani Sankaran , Kumar Chandrasekaran , Premkumar Manoharan , Derebew Bizuwork
Published: February 2024

The advancement of Photovoltaic (PV) systems hinges on the precise optimization of their parameters. Among the numerous optimization techniques, the effectiveness of each often rests on their inherent parameters. This research introduces a new methodology, the Reinforcement Learning-based Golden Jackal Optimizer (RL-GJO). This approach uniquely combines reinforcement learning with the Golden Jackal Optimizer to enhance its efficiency and adaptability in handling various optimization problems. Furthermore, the research incorporates an advanced non-linear hunting strategy to optimize the algorithm’s performance. The proposed algorithm is first validated using 29 CEC2017 benchmark test functions and five engineering-constrained design problems. Secondly, rigorous testing on PV parameter estimation benchmark datasets, including the single-diode model, double-diode model, three-diode model, and a representative PV module, was carried out to highlight the superiority of RL-GJO. The results were compelling: the root mean square error values achieved by RL-GJO were markedly lower than those of the original algorithm and other prevalent optimization methods. The synergy between reinforcement learning and GJO in this approach facilitates faster convergence and improved solution quality. This integration not only improves the performance metrics but also ensures a more efficient optimization process, especially in complex PV scenarios. With an average Freidman’s rank test values of 1.564 for numerical and engineering design problems and 1.742 for parameter estimation problems, the proposed RL-GJO is performing better than the original GJO and other peers. The proposed RL-GJO stands out as a reliable tool for PV parameter estimation. By seamlessly combining reinforcement learning with the golden jackal optimizer, it sets a new benchmark in PV optimization, indicating a promising avenue for future research and applications.
The phylogeography of Middle Eastern tree frogs in Israel
Authors: Surizon Gal Mesika , Geffen Eli , Roll Uri , Gafny Sarig , Perl R. G. Bina
Published: February 2024

Western Palearctic treefrogs of the genusHylaprovide an example of a morphologically and ecologically cryptic group. Up to three distinctHylaspecies have been proposed as resident in Israel and this number has consistently been subject to taxonomical debates. Here, we analyzed 16S rRNA and COI gene fragments of 658 individuals sampled at 47 pools in nine regions across Israel and the West Bank in order to resolve the taxonomic status ofHylafrogs. We generated both Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood phylogenies, and constructed time-calibrated trees to provide an evolutionary and historical context of sequence variations. We further applied SAMOVA as well as Monmonier’s maximum-difference algorithm to study the genetic structure among populations and to identify potential zones acting as barriers to gene flow across locations. Our results revealed two distinct haplogroups for each gene fragment, with 95% CI divergence times dated from 8.9–17.1 Mya (16S) and 7.1–23.6 Mya (COI), respectively. SAMOVA and barrier analyses partitioned the populations into three groups. Our results highlight that, while there are probably only twoHylaspecies in Israel, one population of one of the species might qualify as a separate evolutionarily significant unit. Our findings elucidate the taxonomic status ofHylafrogs in Israel and provide the basis for determining appropriate management and conservation priorities.
The invention of writing on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). New radiocarbon dates on the Rongorongo script
Authors: Ferrara Silvia , Tassoni Laura , Kromer Bernd , Wacker Lukas , Friedrich Michael , Tonini Francesca , Lastilla Lorenzo , Ravanelli Roberta , Talamo Sahra
Published: February 2024

Placing the origin of an undeciphered script in time is crucial to understanding the invention of writing in human history. Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, developed a script, now engraved on fewer than 30 wooden objects, which is still undeciphered. Its origins are also obscure. Central to this issue is whether the script was invented before European travelers reached the island in the eighteenth century AD. Hence direct radiocarbon dating of the wood plays a fundamental role. Until now, only two tablets were directly dated, placing them in the nineteenth c. AD, which does not solve the question of independent invention. Here we radiocarbon-dated four Rongorongo tablets preserved in Rome, Italy. One specimen yielded a unique and secure mid-fifteenth c. date, while the others fall within the nineteenth c. AD. Our results suggest that the use of the script could be placed to a horizon that predates the arrival of external influence.
Association between uric acid and cardiac outcomes mediated by neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Du Ping , Gao Xin , Sun Qiaobing , Gong Minghui , Pan Yu , Guo Qinpeng , Zhao Xu , Guo Ran , Liu Yan
Published: February 2024

To evaluate the association of uric acid (UA) with adverse outcomes and its potential mediator in patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and pulmonary hypertension (PH). We retrospectively analyzed 234 patients with LVDD and PH. The baseline characteristics of patients with low UA (≤ 330 µmol/L) group were compared with high UA (> 330 µmol/L) group. Adverse outcomes included all-cause mortality, cardiac death and heart failure (HF) hospitalization. Their association with UA and the mediator were evaluated using Cox regression and mediation analysis. The mediation proportion was further quantified by the R mediation package. During a mean follow-up of 50 ± 18 months, there were 27 all-cause deaths, 18 cardiovascular deaths and 41 incidents of HF hospitalization. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed UA was an independent risk factor of adverse outcomes in LVDD and PH patients, even after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, medical histories, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, eGFR, BNP and medications. The hazard ratios (HRs) for UA (per 10 µmol/L increase) were as below: for all-cause mortality, HR 1.143, 95% CI 1.069–1.221, P < 0.001; for cardiac death, HR 1.168, 95% CI 1.064–1.282, P = 0.001; for HF hospitalization, HR 1.093, 95% CI 1.035–1.155, P = 0.001. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) played a partial mediation role in the association, and the mediation proportion for NLR on the UA-adverse outcomes were 21%, 19% and 17%, respectively. In patients of LVDD with PH, higher UA level was independently correlated with adverse outcomes. Furthermore, NLR partially mediated the effect of UA on the risk of all-cause mortality, cardiac death and HF hospitalization.
Differential functional consequences of GRIN2A mutations associated with schizophrenia and neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Shepard Nate , Baez-Nieto David , Iqbal Sumaiya , Kurganov Erkin , Budnik Nikita , Campbell Arthur J. , Pan Jen Q. , Sheng Morgan , Farsi Zohreh
Published: February 2024

Human genetic studies have revealed rare missense and protein-truncating variants in GRIN2A, encoding for the GluN2A subunit of the NMDA receptors, that confer significant risk for schizophrenia (SCZ). Mutations in GRIN2A are also associated with epilepsy and developmental delay/intellectual disability (DD/ID). However, it remains enigmatic how alterations to the same protein can result in diverse clinical phenotypes. Here, we performed functional characterization of human GluN1/GluN2A heteromeric NMDA receptors that contain SCZ-linked GluN2A variants, and compared them to NMDA receptors with GluN2A variants associated with epilepsy or DD/ID. Our findings demonstrate that SCZ-associated GRIN2A variants were predominantly loss-of-function (LoF), whereas epilepsy and DD/ID-associated variants resulted in both gain- and loss-of-function phenotypes. We additionally show that M653I and S809R, LoF GRIN2A variants associated with DD/ID, exert a dominant-negative effect when co-expressed with a wild-type GluN2A, whereas E58Ter and Y698C, SCZ-linked LoF variants, and A727T, an epilepsy-linked LoF variant, do not. These data offer a potential mechanism by which SCZ/epilepsy and DD/ID-linked variants can cause different effects on receptor function and therefore result in divergent pathological outcomes.
Targeting the receptor binding domain and heparan sulfate binding for antiviral drug development against SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Yang Zi-Sin , Li Tzong-Shiun , Huang Yu-Sung , Chang Cheng-Chung , Chien Ching-Ming
Published: February 2024

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants diminished the efficacy of current antiviral drugs and vaccines. Hence, identifying highly conserved sequences and potentially druggable pockets for drug development was a promising strategy against SARS-CoV-2 variants. In viral infection, the receptor-binding domain (RBD) proteins are essential in binding to the host receptor. Others, Heparan sulfate (HS), widely distributed on the surface of host cells, is thought to play a central role in the viral infection cycle of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, it might be a reasonable strategy for antiviral drug design to interfere with the RBD in the HS binding site. In this study, we used computational approaches to analyze multiple sequences of coronaviruses and reveal important information about the binding of HS to RBD in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Our results showed that the potential hot-spots, including R454 and E471, in RBD, exhibited strong interactions in the HS-RBD binding region. Therefore, we screened different compounds in the natural product database towards these hot-spots to find potential antiviral candidates using LibDock, Autodock vina and furthermore applying the MD simulation in AMBER20. The results showed three potential natural compounds, including Acetoside (ACE), Hyperoside (HYP), and Isoquercitrin (ISO), had a strong affinity to the RBD. Our results demonstrate a feasible approach to identify potential antiviral agents by evaluating the binding interaction between viral glycoproteins and host receptors. The present study provided the applications of the structure-based computational approach for designing and developing of new antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Genome sequencing and functional analysis of a multipurpose medicinal herb Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy)
Authors: Mahajan Shruti , Chakraborty Abhisek , Bisht Manohar S. , Sil Titas , Sharma Vineet K.
Published: February 2024

Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Hook.f. & Thomson, also known as Giloy, is among the most important medicinal plants that have numerous therapeutic applications in human health due to the production of a diverse array of secondary metabolites. To gain genomic insights into the medicinal properties of T. cordifolia, the genome sequencing was carried out using 10× Genomics linked read and Nanopore long-read technologies. The draft genome assembly of T. cordifolia was comprised of 1.01 Gbp, which is the genome sequenced from the plant family Menispermaceae. We also performed the genome size estimation for T. cordifolia, which was found to be 1.13 Gbp. The deep sequencing of transcriptome from the leaf tissue was also performed. The genome and transcriptome assemblies were used to construct the gene set, resulting in 17,245 coding gene sequences. Further, the phylogenetic position of T. cordifolia was also positioned as basal eudicot by constructing a genome-wide phylogenetic tree using multiple species. Further, a comprehensive comparative evolutionary analysis of gene families contraction/expansion and multiple signatures of adaptive evolution was performed. The genes involved in benzyl iso-quinoline alkaloid, terpenoid, lignin and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were found with signatures of adaptive evolution. These evolutionary adaptations in genes provide genomic insights into the presence of diverse medicinal properties of this plant. The genes involved in the common symbiosis signalling pathway associated with endosymbiosis (Arbuscular Mycorrhiza) were found to be adaptively evolved. The genes involved in adventitious root formation, peroxisome biogenesis, biosynthesis of phytohormones, and tolerance against abiotic and biotic stresses were also found to be adaptively evolved in T. cordifolia.
A pilot study of measuring emotional response and perception of LLM-generated questionnaire and human-generated questionnaires
Authors: Zou Zhao , Mubin Omar , Alnajjar Fady , Ali Luqman
Published: February 2024

The advent of ChatGPT has sparked a heated debate surrounding natural language processing technology and AI-powered chatbots, leading to extensive research and applications across various disciplines. This pilot study aims to investigate the impact of ChatGPT on users' experiences by administering two distinct questionnaires, one generated by humans and the other by ChatGPT, along with an Emotion Detecting Model. A total of 14 participants (7 female and 7 male) aged between 18 and 35 years were recruited, resulting in the collection of 8672 ChatGPT-associated data points and 8797 human-associated data points. Data analysis was conducted using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The results indicate that the utilization of ChatGPT enhances participants' happiness levels and reduces their sadness levels. While no significant gender influences were observed, variations were found about specific emotions. It is important to note that the limited sample size, narrow age range, and potential cultural impacts restrict the generalizability of the findings to a broader population. Future research directions should explore the impact of incorporating additional language models or chatbots on user emotions, particularly among specific age groups such as older individuals and teenagers. As one of the pioneering works evaluating the human perception of ChatGPT text and communication, it is noteworthy that ChatGPT received positive evaluations and demonstrated effectiveness in generating extensive questionnaires.
Development and validation of a cuproptosis-related prognostic model for acute myeloid leukemia patients using machine learning with stacking
Authors: Wang Xichao , Sun Hao , Dong Yongfei , Huang Jie , Bai Lu , Tang Zaixiang , Liu Songbai , Chen Suning
Published: February 2024

Our objective is to develop a prognostic model focused on cuproptosis, aimed at predicting overall survival (OS) outcomes among Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The model utilized machine learning algorithms incorporating stacking. The GSE37642 dataset was used as the training data, and the GSE12417 and TCGA-LAML cohorts were used as the validation data. Stacking was used to merge the three prediction models, subsequently using a random survival forests algorithm to refit the final model using the stacking linear predictor and clinical factors. The prediction model, featuring stacking linear predictor and clinical factors, achieved AUC values of 0.840, 0.876 and 0.892 at 1, 2 and 3 years within the GSE37642 dataset. In external validation dataset, the corresponding AUCs were 0.741, 0.754 and 0.783. The predictive performance of the model in the external dataset surpasses that of the model simply incorporates all predictors. Additionally, the final model exhibited good calibration accuracy. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the novel prediction model refines the prognostic prediction for AML patients, while the stacking strategy displays potential for model integration.
Process implications on the stability and reliability of 300 mm FAB MoS2 field-effect transistors
Authors: Illarionov Yu. Yu. , Karl A. , Smets Q. , Kaczer B. , Knobloch T. , Panarella L. , Schram T. , Brems S. , Cott D. , Asselberghs I. , Grasser T.
Published: February 2024

Recent advances in fabricating field-effect transistors with MoS2 and other related two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors have inspired the industry to begin with the integration of these emerging technologies into FAB-compatible process flows. Just like in the lab research on 2D devices performed in the last decade, focus during development is typically put on pure technology-related issues, such as low-temperature growth methods of large-area 2D films on target substrates, damage-free transfer from sacrificial substrates and growth of top-gate oxides. With maturing technology, the problem of stability limitations caused by oxide traps is gradually coming into focus now. Thus, here we report an in-depth analysis of hysteresis and bias-temperature instabilities for MoS2 FETs fabricated using a 300 mm FAB-compatible process. By performing a comprehensive statistical analysis on devices with top gate lengths ranging between 18 nm and 10 μm, we demonstrate that aggressive scaling results in additional stability problems, likely caused by defective edges of the scaled top gates, in particular at higher operation temperatures. These are important insights for understanding and addressing the stability limitations in future nanoscale 2D FETs produced using FAB process lines.
Criticality in FitzHugh-Nagumo oscillator ensembles: Design, robustness, and spatial invariance
Authors: Al Beattie Bakr , Feketa Petro , Ochs Karlheinz , Kohlstedt Hermann
Published: February 2024

Reservoir computing is an efficient and flexible framework for decision-making, control, and signal processing. It uses a network of interacting components varying from abstract nonlinear dynamical systems to physical substrates. Despite recent progress, the hardware implementation with inherent parameter variability and uncertainties, such as those mimicking the properties of living organisms’ nervous systems, remains an active research area. To address these challenges, we propose a constructive approach using a network of FitzHugh-Nagumo oscillators, exhibiting criticality across a broad range of resistive coupling strengths and robustness without specific parameter tuning. Additionally, the network’s activity demonstrates spatial invariance, offering freedom in choosing readout nodes. We introduce an alternative characterization of criticality by analyzing power dissipation, and demonstrate that criticality supports the robustness of the classification accuracy with respect to the readout shrinkage. Our results indicate criticality as a valuable property for classification problems, and provides design concepts for bio-inspired computational paradigms.
Novel role of bone morphogenetic protein 9 in innate host responses to HCMV infection
Authors: Stempel Markus , Maier Oliver , Mhlekude Baxolele , Drakesmith Hal , Brinkmann Melanie M
Published: February 2024

Herpesviruses modulate immune control to secure lifelong infection. The mechanisms Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) employs in this regard can reveal unanticipated aspects of cellular signaling involved in antiviral immunity. Here, we describe a novel relationship between the TGF-β family cytokine BMP9 and HCMV infection. We identify a cross-talk between BMP9-induced and IFN receptor-mediated signaling, showing that BMP9 boosts the transcriptional response to and antiviral activity of IFNβ, thereby enhancing viral restriction. We also show that BMP9 is secreted by human fibroblasts upon HCMV infection. However, HCMV infection impairs BMP9-induced enhancement of the IFNβ response, indicating that this signaling role of BMP9 is actively targeted by HCMV. Indeed, transmembrane proteins US18 and US20, which downregulate type I BMP receptors, are necessary and sufficient to cause inhibition of BMP9-mediated boosting of the antiviral response to IFNβ. HCMV lacking US18 and US20 is more sensitive to IFNβ. Thus, HCMV has a mutually antagonistic relationship with BMP9, which extends the growing body of evidence that BMP signaling is an underappreciated modulator of innate immunity in response to viral infection.
Sustainable Synthesis of Green Novel Materials for Water Purification
Authors: Hassan Amal I. , Saleh Hosam M.
Published: February 2024

Sustainable synthesis of green novel materials for water purification has gained significant attention in recent years due to the increasing demand for clean water resources. The use of traditional water treatment technologies has led to several environmental issues and challenges, such as energy consumption, carbon footprint, and disposal of hazardous chemicals. Therefore, developing eco-friendly and sustainable materials for water purification is a vital aspect of achieving global sustainability. This chapter aims to provide an overview of sustainable synthesis methods for green novel materials for water purification, including biopolymer-based materials, carbon-based materials, and nanomaterials. The significance of water remediation has lately given birth to multiple research studies concentrating on various areas of this discipline. This chapter will concentrate on the long-term synthesis of green new materials for water purification. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the potential applications and limitations of these materials for water purification, as well as their impact on the environment.
Advanced Nanomaterials for Removal of Emerging Organic Pollutants From Water
Authors: Adeola Adedapo O. , Forbes Patricia B.C.
Published: February 2024

Advanced carbon-based nanomaterials have generated significant attention as nanomaterials and composites for the adsorptive removal of several kinds of contaminants from water due to their physicochemical properties. According to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6), providing clean water remains a significant challenge in developing nations and has been the focus of a lot of global research and development. The occurrence of emerging organic pollutants in the aquatic environment poses severe negative effects on environmental matrices and people. Pharmaceuticals, pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dyes, and industrial additives are examples of emerging pollutants that are often detected in water systems. Conventional wastewater treatment plants have been unable to effectively remove many of these trace pollutants. The classes of advanced sorbent materials described in this chapter include one- and two-dimensional carbon-based materials, such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, and their composites. Due to aspects like cost, effectiveness, simplicity of use, and reusability, the adsorption process is recognized as the most studied and used remediation technology. It is recommended that ecofriendly and sustainable methods be explored to mitigate the distressing consequences of rising organic chemical contaminants in water systems.
Magnetic Adsorbents/Photocatalysts for Water Purification: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Galloni M. G. , Sharif H. M. Adeel , Grainca A. , Haider M. Rizwan , Djellabi R.
Published: February 2024

Photocatalysis requires the activation of photocatalytic materials by light to produce a redox system able to oxidize/reduce (in)organic pollutants. Photocatalysts in suspension form provide excellent oxidation of pollutants in water due to excellent mass transfer. However, the recovery of photocatalyst particles is challenging and costly at large scale. To solve this, numerous studies on the immobilization of photocatalysts on substrates have been reported, to avoid treatment steps or/and for better recovery of particles. This approach suffers from slow kinetics due to less mass transfer, and is not competitive with existing technologies. Magnetically recoverable photocatalysts for water treatment are innovative materials that can be used for high efficiency and ease of handling: they can be used as suspensions, ensuring maximum mass transfer, and recovered by external magnetic force. This chapter aims to discuss recent progress in the design and application of magnetic-based materials for water treatment. Their synthesis and performance in water treatment are clarified. Their catalytic role to catalyse Fenton agents and NaBH4 for organic pollutant oxidation is addressed. In addition, their photocatalytic mechanistic pathways and (photo)catalytic role are discussed. Since magnetic materials exhibit low stability and high charge, recombination as magnetic nanoparticles that can play the roles of recombination center and insulator are discussed, emphasizing the mechanisms and synthesis conditions.
Functionalization of microtubules by Tau-derived peptides: encapsulation, cell manipulation, and construction of superstructures
Authors: Inaba Hiroshi , Matsuura Kazunori
Published: February 2024

Microtubules are natural tubular protein assemblies consisting of tubulin dimers, which serve various roles in cells as cytoskeletons. Because of their unique properties, microtubules are important targets for the manipulation of cells and interesting building blocks of dynamic nanomaterials. By modulating the properties of microtubules, such as structure, stability and motility, it is possible to generate promising solutions for both biological and nanotechnological applications. In this chapter we discussed recent approaches involving the functionalization of microtubules by the Tau-derived peptide, including encapsulation of nanomaterials inside microtubules, manipulation of cells and construction of microtubule superstructures.
Highly sensitive fluorescent explosives detection via SERS: based on fluorescence quenching of graphene oxide@Ag composite aerogels
Authors: Shi Lingyan , Liu Wei , He Xuan , Wang Zihan , Xian Weiping , Wang Jie , Cui Sheng
Published: February 2024

A silver nanoparticle-loaded graphene oxide aerogel (GO-Ag ANM) was prepared. The prepared GO-Ag ANM showed great fluorescence quenching and Raman enhancement effects on the fluorescent explosive BPTAP.