bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personality prediction from task-oriented and open-domain human–machine dialogues
Authors: Guo Ao , Hirai Ryu , Ohashi Atsumoto , Chiba Yuya , Tsunomori Yuiko , Higashinaka Ryuichiro
Published: February 2024

If a dialogue system can predict the personality of a user from dialogue, it will enable the system to adapt to the user’s personality, leading to better task success and user satisfaction. In a recent study, personality prediction was performed using the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality traits with a task-oriented human–machine dialogue using an end-to-end (neural-based) system. However, it is still not clear whether such prediction is generally possible for other types of systems and user personality traits. To clarify this, we recruited 378 participants, asked them to fill out four personality questionnaires covering 25 personality traits, and had them perform three rounds of human–machine dialogue with a pipeline task-oriented dialogue system or an end-to-end task-oriented dialogue system. We also had another 186 participants do the same with an open-domain dialogue system. We then constructed BERT-based models to predict the personality traits of the participants from the dialogues. The results showed that prediction accuracy was generally better with open-domain dialogue than with task-oriented dialogue, although Extraversion (one of the Big Five personality traits) could be predicted equally well for both open-domain dialogue and pipeline task-oriented dialogue. We also examined the effect of utilizing different types of dialogue on personality prediction by conducting a cross-comparison of the models trained from the task-oriented and open-domain dialogues. As a result, we clarified that the open-domain dialogue cannot be used to predict personality traits from task-oriented dialogue, and vice versa. We further analyzed the effects of system utterances, task performance, and the round of dialogue with regard to the prediction accuracy.
Season and host-community composition inside roosts may affect host-specificity of bat flies
Authors: Sándor Attila D. , Corduneanu Alexandra , Hornok Sándor , Mihalca Andrei D. , Péter Áron
Published: February 2024

Bat flies are one of the most abundant ectoparasites of bats, showing remarkable morphological adaptations to the parasitic habit, while the relationship with their hosts is characterized by a high level of specificity. By collecting bat flies from live hosts, our intention was to elucidate the seasonal differences in bat fly occurrence and to describe factors regulating the level of incipient host specificity. Our results indicate that the prevalence and the intensity of infestation is increasing from spring to autumn for most host species, with significant differences among different fly species. Males showed higher infestation levels than females in autumn, suggesting a non-random host choice by flies, targeting the most active host sex. Bat-bat fly host specificity shows seasonal changes and host choice of bat flies are affected by the seasonal differences in hosts’ behavior and ecology, the intensity of infestation and the species composition of the local host community. Nycteribiid bat flies showed lower host specificity in the swarming (boreal autumn) period, with higher prevalence recorded on non-primary hosts. Choosing a non-primary bat host may be an adaptive choice for bat flies in the host’s mating period, thus increasing their dispersive ability in a high activity phase of their hosts.
Factors related to changes in severity among adult and older adult patients at an internal medicine department clinic: an embedded mixed-method study
Authors: Narongsanoi Patcharawan , Banharak Samoraphop , Panpanit Ladawan , Chanaboon Sutin , Damkliang Jintana
Published: February 2024

The changes in aging plus the pathology of diseases can influence the changes in severity levels. This study aimed to examine the changes in levels of severity in patients while waiting to see a doctor. The study was conducted at an outpatient clinic in northeastern Thailand with a total of 421 patients who were assessed twice for levels of severity using the Emergency Severity Index. The 38 triage nurses screened patients, and 18 were interviewed when severity level changes were observed. Data were collected April 1–30, 2021. Quantitative data were analyzed by Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression. Qualitative data were analyzed by content analysis. Most patients were female, between 18 and 59 years old. Most patients did not change their level of severity. However, increasing levels of severity were found in older adults. Factors related to the changes in severity levels were age group, chronic disease, chief complaint, educational level, the duration of travel to the outpatient clinic, type of vehicle, aging process and comorbidity, pathology of diseases, reassessment interval, nurse's experience, bypassing the patient triage process, patient's self-preparation, management of triage nurses, and assignment of direct healthcare staff until the end of the treatment. Increased severity was more frequently found in older adults, so closely monitored during waiting times at a clinic is needed. Setting rescreening as a policy and having sensitive screening guidelines and tools specific to older adults would contribute to early detection and immediate treatment of deteriorating symptoms and illness to help reduce complications and morbidity.

Trial registration: https://osf.io/fp3j2.
Welding of thin stainless-steel sheets using a QCW green laser source
Authors: Haddad E. , Poggenburg F. , Häusler A. , Olowinsky A.
Published: February 2024

Bipolar plates are structured thin metal sheets and are, next to the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), one of the main components of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. One of the production steps of such bipolar plates is the joining process of its two halves. Laser welding is a suitable method for such an application since it is fast, non-contact, automatable, and scalable. Particularly important aspects of the weld seam are the weld seam width and depth. In this paper, welding of stainless-steel material analogous to materials used in bipolar plates is examined. For this purpose, a newly developed quasi continuous wave (QCW) green laser source with higher beam quality is employed to assess the effect of the wavelength and the spot diameter on the welding of stainless-steel material. By using various focusing lens, different sized beam diameters below 20 µm are achieved and their influence on the final welding result—specifically concerning the seam width—are analyzed. With welding speeds starting at 500 mm/s, reduced weld seam widths (≤ 100 µm) are realized, particularly with a focusing lens of 200 mm focal distance. The suitability of such a process for thin channels of under 75 µm width is examined.
The feasibility of MR elastography with transpelvic vibration for localization of focal prostate lesion
Authors: Lee Hyo Jeong , Cho Soo Buem , Lee Jeong Kyong , Kim Jin Sil , Oh Chang Hoon , Kim Hyun Jin , Yoon Hana , Ahn Hyun Kyu , Kim Myong , Hwang Yeok Gu , Kwon Hye Young , Hwang Moon Jung
Published: February 2024

We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of MR elastography (MRE) using a transpelvic approach. Thirty-one patients who underwent prostate MRE and had a pathological diagnosis were included in this study. MRE was obtained using a passive driver placed at the umbilicus and iliac crests. The shear stiffness, clinical data, and conventional imaging findings of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were compared. Inter-reader agreements were evaluated using the intraclass coefficient class (ICC). Prostate MRE was successfully performed for all patients (100% technical success rate). Nineteen cancer and 10 BPH lesions were visualized on MRE. The mean shear stiffness of cancer was significantly higher than that of BPH (5.99 ± 1.46 kPa vs. 4.67 ± 1.54 kPa, p = 0.045). One cancer was detected on MRE but not on conventional sequences. Six tiny cancer lesions were not visualized on MRE. The mean size of cancers that were not detected on MRE was smaller than that of cancers that were visible on MRE (0.8 ± 0.3 cm vs. 2.3 ± 1.8 cm, p = 0.001). The inter-reader agreement for interpreting MRE was excellent (ICC = 0.95). Prostate MRE with transpelvic vibration is feasible without intracavitary actuators. Transpelvic prostate MRE is reliable for detecting focal lesions, including clinically significant prostate cancer and BPH.
Role of Hemigraphis alternata in wound healing: metabolomic profiling and molecular insights into mechanisms
Authors: Devasahayam Arokia Balaya Rex , Palollathil Akhina , Kumar Sumaithangi Thattai Arun , Chandrasekaran Jaikanth , Upadhyay Shubham Sukerndeo , Parate Sakshi Sanjay , Sajida M. , Karthikkeyan Gayathree , Prasad Thottethodi Subrahmanya Keshava
Published: February 2024

Hemigraphis alternata (H. alternata), commonly known as Red Flame Ivy, is widely recognized for its wound healing capabilities. However, the pharmacologically active plant components and their mechanisms of action in wound healing are yet to be determined. This study presents the mass spectrometry-based global metabolite profiling of aqueous and ethanolic extract of H. alternata leaves. The analysis identified 2285 metabolites from 24,203 spectra obtained in both positive and negative polarities. The identified metabolites were classified under ketones, carboxylic acids, primary aliphatic amines, steroids and steroid derivatives. We performed network pharmacology analysis to explore metabolite–protein interactions and identified 124 human proteins as targets for H. alternata metabolites. Among these, several of them were implicated in wound healing including prothrombin (F2), alpha-2A adrenergic receptor (ADRA2A) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1). Gene ontology analysis of target proteins enriched cellular functions related to glucose metabolic process, platelet activation, membrane organization and response to wounding. Additionally, pathway enrichment analysis revealed potential molecular network involved in wound healing. Moreover, in-silico docking analysis showed strong binding energy between H. alternata metabolites with identified protein targets (F2 and PTPN11). Furthermore, the key metabolites involved in wound healing were further validated by multiple reaction monitoring-based targeted analysis.
Development and psychometric assessment of Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) in terms of smoking cessation among Chinese smokers
Authors: Lin Hao , Lin Haoxiang , Zhang Lanchao , Zhang Chengqian , Yang Xiaochen , Cao Wangnan , Chang Chun
Published: February 2024

The Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) is a two-stage (pre-intentional and post-intentional) behavioral change model that distinguishes between motivation and volition in behavior change process. This study aims to develop HAPA-based assessments for smoking cessation among current smokers. The HAPA-based measures were developed and the draft measures included nine constructs, namely, risk perception in smoking-induced cancer, risk perception in smoking-induced systemic disease, positive outcome expectancy, negative outcome expectancy, self-efficacy in quitting smoking, self-efficacy in maintaining, self-efficacy in re-initiating, quitting planning and coping planning in smoking cessation, with a total of 26 items. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in China in 2022. Principal Component Analysis was used for Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Cronbach’s α coefficient was calculated to evaluate the internal consistency. Variables such as severity of smoking addiction were selected to evaluate the correlation between the HAPA scale and these variables. Of the 928 participants, 76.4% (709/928) were male and the median age was 35 years. Five factors were extracted by EFA. The factor loadings of each item were all greater than 0.60, and the cumulative variance contribution rate was 90.15%. The Cronbach’s α coefficient of each HAPA-based subscales was 0.929–0.986. The HAPA-based measurements are comprehensive, reliable and valid in the assessment of smokers’ smoking cessation cognition, which can be used to guide the design and implementation of intervention and the development of theory.
Short-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines among healthcare workers: a multicenter study in Iran
Authors: Mirnia Kayvan , Haji Esmaeil Memar Elmira , Kamran Niyoosha , Yeganedoost Saadollah , Nickhah Klashami Zeynab , Mamishi Setareh , Mahmoudi Shima
Published: February 2024

Since the initiation of the COVID-19 vaccination effort, there has been widespread concern regarding vaccine efficacy and potential side effects. This study aimed to explore the short-term side effects of four available COVID-19 vaccines (Sputnik V, Sinopharm, Oxford–AstraZeneca, and Covaxin) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Iran. The multicenter study involved 1575 HCWs, with the majority received Sputnik V (74.1%), followed by Covaxin (15.6%), Sinopharm (6.4%), and Oxford-AstraZeneca (3.8%). The prevalence of at least one side effect after the first and second dose COVID-19 vaccine was 84.6% and 72.9%, respectively. The common side effects (presented in > 50% of the study participants) after the first dose of the vaccine were injection site pain (61.7%), myalgia (51.8%), and muscle pain (50.9%). The most reported side effects after the second dose of the vaccine were injection site pain (26.8%), myalgia (15.8%), fever (10.3%), headache (9.9%), and chills (9.2%). In conclusion, according to the COVID-19 vaccine type, different side effects might occur following the first and second doses of vaccination. These findings assist in addressing the ongoing problems of vaccination hesitancy which has been driven by widespread worries about the vaccine safety profile.
Prefrontal cortex structural and developmental associations with callous-unemotional traits and aggression
Authors: Hostetler Nathan , Tavares Tamara P. , Ritchie Mary B. , Oliver Lindsay D. , Chen Vanessa V. , Greening Steven , Finger Elizabeth C. , Mitchell Derek G. V.
Published: February 2024

Youths with high levels of callous-unemotional (CU) traits and aggression are at an increased risk for developing antisocial behaviours into adulthood. In this population, neurostructural grey matter abnormalities have been observed in the prefrontal cortex. However, the directionality of these associations is inconsistent, prompting some to suggest they may vary across development. Although similar neurodevelopmental patterns have been observed for other disorders featuring emotional and behavioural dysregulation, few studies have tested this hypothesis for CU traits, and particularly not for aggression subtypes. The current study sought to examine grey matter correlates of CU traits and aggression (including its subtypes), and then determine whether these associations varied by age. Fifty-four youths (10–19 years old) who were characterized for CU traits and aggression underwent MRI. Grey matter volume and surface area within the anterior cingulate cortex was positively associated with CU traits. The correlation between CU traits and medial orbitofrontal cortex (mOFC) volume varied significantly as a function of age, as did the correlation between reactive aggression and mOFC surface area. These associations became more positive with age. There were no significant findings for proactive/total aggression. Results are interpreted considering the potential for delayed cortical maturation in youths with high CU traits/aggression.
Glutamate is effective in decreasing opacity formed in galactose-induced cataract model
Authors: Takashima Masaru , Yamamura Shunki , Tamiya Chie , Inami Mayumi , Takamura Yoshihiro , Inatani Masaru , Oki Masaya
Published: February 2024

Although cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide, the detailed pathogenesis of cataract remains unclear, and clinically useful drug treatments are still lacking. In this study, we examined the effects of glutamate using an ex vivo model in which rat lens is cultured in a galactose-containing medium to induce opacity formation. After inducing lens opacity formation in galactose medium, glutamate was added, and the opacity decreased when the culture was continued. Next, microarray analysis was performed using samples in which the opacity was reduced by glutamate, and genes whose expression increased with galactose culture and decreased with the addition of glutamate were extracted. Subsequently, STRING analysis was performed on a group of genes that showed variation as a result of quantitative measurement of gene expression by RT-qPCR. The results suggest that apoptosis, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cytoskeleton, and histones are involved in the formation and reduction of opacity. Therefore, glutamate may reduce opacity by inhibiting oxidative stress and its downstream functions, and by regulating the cytoskeleton and cell proliferation.
Refractive index sensor based on fano-magnetic toroidal quadrupole resonance enabled by bound state in the continuum in all-dielectric metasurface
Authors: Maleki Javad , Fathi Davood
Published: February 2024

For the first time, an all-dielectric metasurface ultra-sensitive refractive index (RI) sensor with very high quality factor (QF) and figure of merit (FOM), with Fano-magnetic toroidal quadrupole (MTQ) resonance enabled by bound state in continuum (BIC) in terahertz (THz) region was designed. Furthermore, the MTQ resonance in the THz due to a distortion of symmetry-protected bound states in the continuum in the designed structure was investigated. Also, to achieve the dark mode, a combination of three methods including (i) breaking the symmetry, (ii) design of complex structures, and (iii) changing the incident angle was utilized. The broken symmetry in the structure caused a new mode to be excited, which is suitable for sensing applications. The designed metasurface was able to sense a wide range of RI in MTQ resonance, where its properties were improved for the value of sensitivity (S) from 217 GHz/RIU to 625 GHz/RIU, for FOM from 197 RIU–1 to 2.21 × 106 RIU–1 and for QF from 872 to 5.7 × 106.
Biocompatibility and sub-chronic toxicity studies of phlorotannin/polycaprolactone coated trachea tube for advancing medical device applications
Authors: Kim Tae-Hee , Heo Seong-Yeong , Oh Gun-Woo , Park Won Sun , Jung Won-Kyo
Published: February 2024

The phlorotannin-polycaprolactone-coated endotracheal tube (PP tube) has been developed with the aim of preventing tracheal stenosis that can result from endotracheal intubation, a factor that can lead to a serious airway obstruction. Its preventive efficacy has been assessed through both in vitro and in vivo investigations. However, there is a lack of studies concerning its biocompatibility and sub-chronic toxicity in animal models, a crucial factor to ensure the safety of its usage as a functional endotracheal tube. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the biocompatibility and sub-chronic (13 weeks) toxicity of the PP tube through L929 cell line and diverse in vivo models. The cytotoxicity testing was performed using the extracts of PP tube on L929 cells for 72 h. Furthermore, other tests conducted on animal models, including ICR mice (acute systemic toxicity), New Zealand white rabbit (intradermal reactivity and pyrogen tests), guinea pig (maximization sensitization), and Sprague Dawley rats (sub-chronic toxicity). In both biocompatibility and sub-chronic toxicity analyses, no significant adverse effects are observed in the groups exposed to the PP tube, when compared to control group. Altogether, the findings suggested that the PP tube exhibits relative non-toxic and safety, supporting its suitability for clinical usage. However, extended periods of intubation may produce mild irritant responses, highlighting the clinical caution of limiting intubation duration to less than 13 weeks.
Numerical simulation of autoclaved aerated concrete masonry wall subjected to close-in explosion and the structural damage assessment
Authors: Liu Sheng , Xu Xiangyun , Zhang Yilun , Zhou Bukui , Yang Kezhi
Published: February 2024

In this study, we investigated the destructive effect of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) masonry walls subjected to close-in explosions. First, full-size refined finite-element models of the AAC masonry wall were established, and the accuracy of the models was verified by comparison with the test results. The destruction pattern and damage characteristics of the AAC wall were studied, and the effects of block size, wall thickness, mortar compressive strength, and explosion distance on the destruction degree of the AAC masonry walls were analyzed. The results showed that the destruction pattern of the AAC masonry wall subjected to close-in explosion manifested as punching damage in the middle of the wall. When the scaled distance remained unchanged, the punching damage area of the AAC masonry wall was positively correlated with the block size and negatively correlated with the wall thickness and mortar compressive strength. When the explosive equivalent remained unchanged and the explosion distance increased, the punching damage area first increased and then decreased. According to the damage mechanism of the AAC masonry wall, a calculation method for predicting the punching damage area of the AAC masonry wall was established, and the accuracy of this method was verified by comparing it with the numerical results. In addition, the damage criterion based on the punching damage area was established to determine the destruction levels of AAC masonry walls.
Multi-objective genetic algorithm calibration of colored self-compacting concrete using DEM: an integrated parallel approach
Authors: Shafaie Vahid , Movahedi Rad Majid
Published: February 2024

A detailed numerical simulation of Colored Self-Compacting Concrete (CSCC) was conducted in this research. Emphasis was placed on an innovative calibration methodology tailored for ten unique CSCC mix designs. Through the incorporation of multi-objective optimization, MATLAB's Genetic Algorithm (GA) was seamlessly integrated with PFC3D, a prominent Discrete Element Modeling (DEM) software package. This integration facilitates the exchange of micro-parameter values, where MATLAB’s GA optimizes these parameters, which are then input into PFC3D to simulate the behavior of CSCC mix designs. The calibration process is fully automated through a MATLAB script, complemented by a fish script in PFC, allowing for an efficient and precise calibration mechanism that automatically terminates based on predefined criteria. Central to this approach is the Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) test, which forms the foundation of the calibration process. A distinguishing aspect of this study was the incorporation of pigment effects, reflecting the cohesive behavior of cementitious components, into the micro-parameters influencing the cohesion coefficient within DEM. This innovative approach ensured significant alignment between simulations and observed macro properties, as evidenced by fitness values consistently exceeding 0.94. This investigation not only expanded the understanding of CSCC dynamics but also contributed significantly to the discourse on advanced concrete simulation methodologies, underscoring the importance of multi-objective optimization in such studies.
A low-carbon economic dispatch method for regional integrated energy system based on multi-objective chaotic artificial hummingbird algorithm
Authors: Cao Jie , Yang Yuanbo , Qu Nan , Xi Yang , Guo Xiaoli , Dong Yunchang
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates Regional Integrated Energy Systems (RIES), emphasizing the connection of diverse energy supply subsystems to address varied user needs and enhance operational efficiency. A novel low-carbon economic dispatch method, utilizing the multi-objective chaotic artificial hummingbird algorithm, is introduced. The method not only optimizes economic and environmental benefits but also aligns with "carbon peak and carbon neutrality" objectives. The study begins by presenting a comprehensive low-carbon economic dispatch model, followed by the proposal of the multi-objective chaotic artificial hummingbird algorithm, crucial for deriving the Pareto frontier of the low-carbon economic dispatch model. Additionally, we introduce a TOPSIS approach based on combined subjective and objective weights, this approach harnesses the objective data from the Pareto solution set deftly, curbs the subjective biases of dispatchers effectively and facilitates the selection of an optimal system operation plan from the Pareto frontier. Finally, the simulation results highlight the outstanding performance of our method in terms of optimization outcomes, convergence efficiency, and solution diversity. Noteworthy among these results is an 8.8% decrease in system operational economic costs and a 14.2% reduction in carbon emissions.
Prevalence of human papillomavirus infection and associated factors among women attending cervical cancer screening in setting of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Elsa , Kumbi Birhanu , Mandefro Belayihun , Hemba Yadesa , Prajapati Krushna Kant , Singh Suresh Chandra , Upadhye Vijay , Hajare Sunil Tulshiram
Published: February 2024

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are circular, nonenveloped small double-stranded DNA viruses that infect stratified epithelium and can cause a number of life-threatening diseases. HPV is the central risk factor for developing cervical cancer and is estimated that approximately 98% of this disease is associated with oncogenic types of HPV. HPV infection leads to an estimated 266,000 cervical cancer deaths annually. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of HPV infection and risk factors associated with cervical lesion among women attending the cervical cancer screening clinic at the Ethiopian Family Guidance Association, Addis Ababa. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of HPV infection. Data were collected using a questionnaire and samples leftover from cervical screening were taken. The leftover swab was air dried and DNA was extracted and amplified by using a PCR. A total of 247 women were included in the study. The prevalence of HPV was 9.72% among the population studied. Of all participants, 27.13% were positive for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia-1 (CIN1). CIN1 positivity was found in half of HPV positive women. Among HPV positive women, half of them had started sexual intercourse at ages 12–17 years and 41.66% were women who gave birth at ages 12–17 years. The high prevalence of HPV and the CIN1 positive group were ages 36–57 and women with multiple sexual partners. The other groups with the highest CIN1 positive were 22.39% grade (9–12) and 20.9% primary (1–8) and uneducated women. Among HPV positive women, 83.33% had an abortion history and 80% miscarried in the first trimester. Among the CIN1 positives, 53.73% had more than two sexual partners. Among HPV positive women, half of them were users of contraception methods. In conclusion, the highest prevalence of HPV is among women who began sexual intercourse earlier and who gave birth at 12–17 years of age, have an abortion history, with MSP and oral contraceptive methods users. In addition to HPV, early pregnancy and sexual intercourse at 12–17 years of age, abortion, MSP, and oral hormonal contraceptives are factors in cervical cancer. Finally, most women do not have enough knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and the risk factor.
The effect of caponization on tibia bone histomorphometric properties of crossbred roosters
Authors: Wojciechowska-Puchałka J. , Calik J. , Krawczyk J. , Obrzut J. , Tomaszewska E. , Muszyński S. , Wojtysiak D.
Published: February 2024

The negative effect of caponization on the structural, geometric and mechanical parameters of femur and tibia has been shown in a few studies. Nevertheless, its influence on tibia bone microarchitecture is still largely unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of castration on the microstructural parameters of the trabecular and compact bone of tibia bone in crossbred chickens. The experiment involved 96 roosters derived from crossing Yellowleg Partridge hens ($${\dot{\text{Z}}}$$

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-33) and Rhode Island Red cockerels (R-11) fattened until the 16th, 20th and 24th week of life. Animals were randomly divided into 2 groups of 48 each. Group I (control) consisted of intact roosters and group II (experimental) consisted of birds subjected to caponization at the 8th week of age. The castration surgery had no influence on some properties within compact bone such as osteon diameter On.Dm, osteon perimeter On.Pm, osteon area On.Ar, osteocyte lacunar number Ot.Lc.N, osteon bone area On.B.Ar, osteon wall thickness On.W.Th as well as thick-mature collagen content in all analyzed age groups of animals. Nevertheless, our results demonstrate that castration caused a decrease of Haversian canal area Hc.Ar, osteocyte lacunar area Ot.Lc.Ar and osteocyte lacunar porosity Ot.Lc.Po among the 16-week-old birds, decrease of Haversian canal perimeter Hc.Pm and increase of fraction of bone area On.B.Ar/On.Ar among 16- and 24-week-old individuals and also an increase of osteocyte lacunar density Ot.Lc.Dn in the osteons of the oldest roosters. Additionally, some microstructural parameters of trabecular bone show the negative effect of caponization. The youngest 16-week-old capons were characterized by thinnin the trabecular in the epiphysis part of tibia. Moreover, in the case of 24-week-old, there is an increase in the trabecular separation Tb.Sp with simultaneous decrease of trabecular number Tb.N compared to roosters, which may suggest the increase of the bone resorption among the oldest individuals. The increased bone turnover in the epiphysis part of the tibia bone also indicates changes in the collagen fibers distribution, where among 20-week-old animals there is a decrease in the content of immature thin collagen fibers with simultaneous increase in the content of mature thick collagen fibers. Furthermore, among the oldest 24-week-old individuals we can observe the increased thick-to-thin collagen ratio, which may be a sign of slowing down in bone formation.
SEGCN: a subgraph encoding based graph convolutional network model for social bot detection
Authors: Liu Feng , Li Zhenyu , Yang Chunfang , Gong Daofu , Lu Haoyu , Liu Fenlin
Published: February 2024

Message passing neural networks such as graph convolutional networks (GCN) can jointly consider various types of features for social bot detection. However, the expressive power of GCN is upper-bounded by the 1st-order Weisfeiler–Leman isomorphism test, which limits the detection performance for the social bots. In this paper, we propose a subgraph encoding based GCN model, SEGCN, with stronger expressive power for social bot detection. Each node representation of this model is computed as the encoding of a surrounding induced subgraph rather than encoding of immediate neighbors only. Extensive experimental results on two publicly available datasets, Twibot-20 and Twibot-22, showed that the proposed model improves the accuracy of the state-of-the-art social bot detection models by around 2.4%, 3.1%, respectively.
EORTC-SPECTA Arcagen study, comprehensive genomic profiling and treatment adaptation of rare thoracic cancers
Authors: Tagliamento Marco , Morfouace Marie , Loizides Charalambos , Oliveira Julio , Greillier Laurent , Raimbourg Judith , Toffart Anne-Claire , Chatellier Thierry , Cloarec Nicolas , Sullivan Ivana , Brasiuniene Birute , Duruisseaux Michael , Oselin Kersti , Robert Marie-Sophie , Fernandes Carolina , Poncin Arnaud , Blay Jean-Yves , Besse Benjamin , Girard Nicolas
Published: February 2024

Arcagen (NCT02834884) is a European prospective study aiming at defining the molecular landscape of rare cancers for treatment guidance. We present data from the cohort of rare thoracic tumors. Patients with advanced pleural mesothelioma (PM) or thymic epithelial tumors (TET) underwent genomic profiling with large targeted assay [>300 genes, tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI) status] on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) or plasma samples. EORTC molecular tumor board (MTB) advised for biomarker-guided treatments. 102 patients recruited from 8 countries between July 2019 and May 2022 were evaluable: 56 with PM, 46 with TET (23 thymomas, 23 thymic carcinomas). Molecular profiling was performed on 70 FFPE samples (42 PM, 28 TET), and 32 cases on ctDNA (14 PM, 18 TET), within a median turnaround time of 8 days from sample reception. We detected relevant molecular alterations in 66 out of 102 patients (65%; 79% PM, 48% TET), 51 of 70 FFPE samples (73%; 90% PM, 46% TET), and 15 of 32 plasma samples (47%; 43% PM, 50% TET). The most frequently altered genes were CDKN2A/B, BAP1, MTAP in PM and TP53, CDKN2A/B, SETD2 in TET. The TMB was low (mean 3.2 Muts/MB), 2 PM had MSI-high status. MTB advised molecular-guided treatment options in 32 situations, for 17 PM and 15 TET patients (75% clinical trial option, 22% off-label drug or compassionate use, 3% early access program). Molecular testing and MTB discussion were feasible for patients with rare thoracic cancers and allowed the broadening of treatment options for 30% of the cases.
Transcriptional condensates: a blessing or a curse for gene regulation?
Authors: Stortz Martin , Presman Diego M. , Levi Valeria
Published: February 2024

Whether phase-separation is involved in the organization of the transcriptional machinery and if it aids or inhibits the transcriptional process is a matter of intense debate. In this Mini Review, we will cover the current knowledge regarding the role of transcriptional condensates on gene expression regulation. We will summarize the latest discoveries on the relationship between condensate formation, genome organization, and transcriptional activity, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of the experimental approaches used to interrogate these aspects of transcription in living cells. Finally, we will discuss the challenges for future research.
Priority index for critical Covid-19 identifies clinically actionable targets and drugs
Authors: Zhang Zhiqiang , Wang Shan , Jiang Lulu , Wei Jianwen , Lu Chang , Li Shengli , Diao Yizhu , Fang Zhongcheng , He Shuo , Tan Tingting , Yang Yisheng , Zou Kexin , Shi Jiantao , Lin James , Chen Liye , Bao Chaohui , Fei Jian , Fang Hai
Published: February 2024

While genome-wide studies have identified genomic loci in hosts associated with life-threatening Covid-19 (critical Covid-19), the challenge of resolving these loci hinders further identification of clinically actionable targets and drugs. Building upon our previous success, we here present a priority index solution designed to address this challenge, generating the target and drug resource that consists of two indexes: the target index and the drug index. The primary purpose of the target index is to identify clinically actionable targets by prioritising genes associated with Covid-19. We illustrate the validity of the target index by demonstrating its ability to identify pre-existing Covid-19 phase-III drug targets, with the majority of these targets being found at the leading prioritisation (leading targets). These leading targets have their evolutionary origins in Amniota (‘four-leg vertebrates’) and are predominantly involved in cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions and JAK-STAT signaling. The drug index highlights opportunities for repurposing clinically approved JAK-STAT inhibitors, either individually or in combination. This proposed strategic focus on the JAK-STAT pathway is supported by the active pursuit of therapeutic agents targeting this pathway in ongoing phase-II/III clinical trials for Covid-19.
The ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi deploys a rapid injury response dating back to the last common animal ancestor
Authors: Mitchell Dorothy G. , Edgar Allison , Mateu Júlia Ramon , Ryan Joseph F. , Martindale Mark Q.
Published: February 2024

Regenerative potential is widespread but unevenly distributed across animals. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying regenerative processes is limited to a handful of model organisms, restricting robust comparative analyses. Here, we conduct a time course of RNA-seq during whole body regeneration in Mnemiopsis leidyi (Ctenophora) to uncover gene expression changes that correspond with key events during the regenerative timeline of this species. We identified several genes highly enriched in this dataset beginning as early as 10 minutes after surgical bisection including transcription factors in the early timepoints, peptidases in the middle timepoints, and cytoskeletal genes in the later timepoints. We validated the expression of early response transcription factors by whole mount in situ hybridization, showing that these genes exhibited high expression in tissues surrounding the wound site. These genes exhibit a pattern of transient upregulation as seen in a variety of other organisms, suggesting that they may be initiators of an ancient gene regulatory network linking wound healing to the initiation of a regenerative response.
Extracting, filtering and simulating cellular barcodes using CellBarcode tools
Authors: Sun Wenjie , Perkins Meghan , Huyghe Mathilde , Faraldo Marisa M. , Fre Silvia , Perié Leïla , Lyne Anne-Marie
Published: February 2024

Identifying true DNA cellular barcodes among polymerase chain reaction and sequencing errors is challenging. Current tools are restricted in the diversity of barcode types supported or the analysis strategies implemented. As such, there is a need for more versatile and efficient tools for barcode extraction, as well as for tools to investigate which factors impact barcode detection and which filtering strategies to best apply. Here we introduce the package CellBarcode and its barcode simulation kit, CellBarcodeSim, that allows efficient and versatile barcode extraction and filtering for a range of barcode types from bulk or single-cell sequencing data using a variety of filtering strategies. Using the barcode simulation kit and biological data, we explore the technical and biological factors influencing barcode identification and provide a decision tree on how to optimize barcode identification for different barcode settings. We believe that CellBarcode and CellBarcodeSim have the capability to enhance the reproducibility and interpretation of barcode results across studies.
Synthetic modified vaccinia Ankara vaccines confer cross-reactive and protective immunity against mpox virus
Authors: Chiuppesi Flavia , Zaia John A. , Gutierrez-Franco Miguel-Angel , Ortega-Francisco Sandra , Ly Minh , Kha Mindy , Kim Taehyun , Dempsey Shannon , Kar Swagata , Grifoni Alba , Sette Alessandro , Wussow Felix , Diamond Don J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Although the mpox global health emergency caused by mpox virus (MPXV) clade IIb.1 has ended, mpox cases are still reported due to low vaccination coverage and waning immunity. COH04S1 is a clinically evaluated, multiantigen COVID-19 vaccine candidate built on a fully synthetic platform of the highly attenuated modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vector, representing the only FDA-approved smallpox/mpox vaccine JYNNEOS. Given the potential threat of MPXV resurgence and need for vaccine alternatives, we aimed to assess the capacity COH04S1 and its synthetic MVA (sMVA) backbone to confer MPXV-specific immunity.

Methods

We evaluated orthopoxvirus-specific and MPXV cross-reactive immune responses in samples collected during a Phase 1 clinical trial of COH04S1 and in non-human primates (NHP) vaccinated with COH04S1 or its sMVA backbone. MPXV cross-reactive immune responses in COH04S1-vaccinated healthy adults were compared to responses measured in healthy subjects vaccinated with JYNNEOS. Additionally, we evaluated the protective efficacy of COH04S1 and sMVA against mpox in mpox-susceptible CAST/EiJ mice.

Results

COH04S1-vaccinated individuals develop robust orthopoxvirus-specific humoral and cellular responses, including cross-reactive antibodies to MPXV-specific virion proteins as well as MPXV cross-neutralizing antibodies in 45% of the subjects. In addition, NHP vaccinated with COH04S1 or sMVA show similar MPXV cross-reactive antibody responses. Moreover, MPXV cross-reactive humoral responses elicited by COH04S1 are comparable to those measured in JYNNEOS-vaccinated subjects. Finally, we show that mice vaccinated with COH04S1 or sMVA are protected from lung infection following challenge with MPXV clade IIb.1.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the capacity of sMVA vaccines to elicit cross-reactive and protective orthopox-specific immunity against MPXV, suggesting that COH04S1 and sMVA could be developed as bivalent or monovalent mpox vaccine alternatives against MPXV.
Recent advances in promoting dry reforming of methane using nickel-based catalysts
Authors: Zhu Haibin , Chen Huichao , Zhang Menghan , Liang Cai , Duan Lunbo
Published: February 2024

The achievements of dry reforming of methane over Ni-based catalysts are presented with focus on the modification factors to enhance sintering and coking resistance, elaborated in the context of support, promoter, and preparation.
Enhanced LiMn2O4 cathode performance in lithium-ion batteries through synergistic cation and anion substitution
Authors: Nyamaa Oyunbayar , Jeong Hyo-Min , Kang Gyeong-Ho , Kim Jung-Soo , Goo Kyeong-Mo , Baek In-Gyu , Yang Jeong-Hyeon , Nam Tae-Hyun , Noh Jung-Pil
Published: February 2024

The use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) continues to grow to overcome environmental challenges, and spinel LiMn2O4 is employed as a high-performance and safe electrode material in this context.
In vitro biological evaluation and in silico studies of linear diarylheptanoids from Curcuma aromatica Salisb. as urease inhibitors
Authors: Le Tho Huu , Ho Dung Ngoc Phuong , Nguyen Hai Xuan , Van Do Truong Nhat , Nguyen Mai Thanh Thi , Huynh Lam K. , Nguyen Nhan Trung
Published: February 2024

This study reports nine new diarylheptanoids first isolated from the Curcuma aromatica Salisb., among which three are discovered for the first time, and two significantly inhibit urease, shedding light on its potential in treating gastric ulcers.
Quantifying intuition: Bayesian approach to figures of merit in EXAFS analysis of magic size clusters
Authors: Haddad Lucy , Gianolio Diego , Dunstan David J. , Liu Ying , Rankine Conor , Sapelkin Andrei
Published: February 2024

Analysis of the extended X-ray absorption fine structure can yield local structural information in magic size clusters even when other structural methods (such as X-ray diffraction) fail, but typically requires an initial guess – an atomistic model.
One stone two birds: from one azlactone-functionalized monomer to a heterofunctional diblock copolymer
Authors: François Francesca , Gody Guillaume , Wilson James , Fontaine Laurent , Pascual Sagrario
Published: February 2024

An innovative combination of RAFT polymerization using easy-to-implement conditions and post-polymerization modification by click aminolysis for efficient preparation of heterofunctional diblock copolymers derived from vinyl azlactone.
Non-invasive single cell aptasensing in live cells and animals
Authors: Osman Eiman A. , Rynes Thomas P. , Wang Y. Lucia , Mruk Karen , McKeague Maureen
Published: February 2024

A genetically encoded aptasensor platform for non-invasive measurement of drug distribution in cells and zebrafish was developed.
Construction of a graphitic carbon nitride-based photocatalyst with a strong built-in electric field via π–π stacking interactions boosting photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Li Yanrui , Wang Linda , Gao Xiang , Xue Yingying , Li Bozhan , Zhu Xiaolin
Published: February 2024

A high-efficiency photocatalyst with a strong built-in electric field was fabricated by anchoring π-conjugated molecules on the surface of crystalline nitride carbon via π–π stacking interactions with efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction into CO and CH4.
Reticular design and alkyne bridge engineering in donor–π–acceptor type conjugated microporous polymers for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Elsayed Mohamed Hammad , Li Chia-Jung , Hassan Ahmed E. , Mekhemer Islam M. A. , Musa Ahmed Fouad , Hussien Mahmoud Kamal , Chen Li-Chyong , Chen Kuei-Hsien , Chou Ho-Hsiu , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: February 2024

Through the successful application of Suzuki and Sonogashira coupling reactions, we have synthesized Py–TPA and Py–TB–TPA CMPs, demonstrating impressive hydrogen evolution rates (HER) of 3633 and 16 700 μmol g−1 h−1, respectively.
Recent progress in polyaniline-based chemiresistive flexible gas sensors: design, nanostructures, and composite materials
Authors: Wen Jiayue , Wang Shang , Feng Jiayun , Ma Jingxuan , Zhang He , Wu Peng , Li Geng , Wu Zhuohuan , Meng Fanzhou , Li Longqiu , Tian Yanhong
Published: February 2024

An overview of nanostructured PANI gas sensors and chemiresistive or heterojunction-based PANI composite gas sensors.
Establishing the correlation between Rashba spin splitting and HER activity enhancement in Janus structures
Authors: Kumar Dhirendra , Chakraborty Sudip
Published: February 2024

We have envisaged the influence of bi-axial strain on the Rashba effect in the 2D Janus BiClS monolayer.
Anisotropy of metal–organic framework and their composites: properties, synthesis, and applications
Authors: Lu Yiyao , Zhou Huijie , Yang Hui , Zhou Zhen , Jiang Zhaocheng , Pang Huan
Published: February 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are potentially promising materials for a variety of applications in several fields owing to their distinctive structural properties, such as ultrahigh surface area, tailorable porosity and structural diversity.
Crystallization kinetics of semiconducting poly(2,5-bis(3-alkylthiophen-2-yl)-thieno-[3,2-b]thiophene) (PBTTT) from its different liquid phases
Authors: Pirela Valentina , Müller Alejandro J. , Martín Jaime
Published: February 2024

Using fast scanning calorimetry, GIWAXS and polarized microscopy, we resolve the thermotropic phase behavior of PBTTT. Moreover we study the crystallization kinetics of PBTTT thin films from the isotropic liquid and the smectic mesophase.
Strategies for constructing high-performance tin-based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Nakamanya Barbara , Kakooza Tonny , Sun Qianwen , Haghayegh Marjan , Balilonda Andrew , Tebyetekerwa Mike , Yang Shengyuan , Zhu Meifang
Published: February 2024

Herein, we present different approaches through which tin-based perovskite solar cells can potentially achieve prolonged stability under various environmental conditions and high efficiency, paving the way for future commercialization.
New pyrazolylindolin-2-one based coumarin derivatives as anti-melanoma agents: design, synthesis, dual BRAFV600E/VEGFR-2 inhibition, and computational studies
Authors: Sabt Ahmed , Khedr Mohammed A. , Eldehna Wagdy M. , Elshamy Abdelsamed I. , Abdelhameed Mohamed F. , Allam Rasha M. , Batran Rasha Z.
Published: February 2024

New pyrazolylindolin-2-one linked coumarin derivatives were designed as dual BRAFV600E/VEGFR-2 inhibitors targeting melanoma cells A375. Docking simulation showed various interactions with the binding residues in BRAFV600E and VEGFR-2 active sites.
Porous PEDOT:PSS smart thermal insulators enabling energy harvesting and detection
Authors: Yun Jeong Seob , Im Sang Hyuk
Published: February 2024

A porous PEDOT:PSS smart thermal insulator capable of energy harvesting and real-time temperature detection is demonstrated through cross-linking and controlled freeze-drying.