bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simple method for microwave-assisted preparation of tire samples
Authors: Zhu Renchao , Yuan Yingqi , Yang Yu , Yang Qiyue , Yu Aihua
Published: November 2023

Heavy metals content in tires affects the safety of soil and agricultural products. The digestion method is a pretreatment for determining heavy metals in tire samples, and will affect the efficiency and accuracy of the heavy metal determination. The microwave digestion process and reagents for tire samples are not currently standardized. Therefore, this study attempts to provide an appropriate method of resolution for scholars. All digestion processes were performed in Mars One. We tested 15 different acid mixtures to determine the best reagent type and dose and then investigated the effect of maximum temperature, holding time, and sample grams on the degree of digestion. In summary, the best condition to digest the tire sample was a mixture of 3 ml HNO3 and 7 ml H2SO4, taking 0.1 (± 0.0005) g tire sample, at the maximum digestion temperature of 220 °C for 25 min. The experimental conclusion will provide a reliable experimental method for scientists using MARS One to study heavy metals in tires. At the same time, researchers using the MARS series can also find valuable references in this paper.
Aberrations in temporal dynamics of cognitive processing induced by Parkinson’s disease and Levodopa
Authors: Kiani Mohammad Mahdi , Heidari Beni Mohammad Hossein , Aghajan Hamid
Published: November 2023

The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) have been shown to significantly improve by Levodopa. However, despite the widespread adoption of Levodopa as a standard pharmaceutical drug for the treatment of PD, cognitive impairments linked to PD do not show visible improvement with Levodopa treatment. Furthermore, the neuronal and network mechanisms behind the PD-induced cognitive impairments are not clearly understood. In this work, we aim to explain these cognitive impairments, as well as the ones exacerbated by Levodopa, through examining the differential dynamic patterns of the phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) during cognitive functions. EEG data recorded in an auditory oddball task performed by a cohort consisting of controls and a group of PD patients during both on and off periods of Levodopa treatment were analyzed to derive the temporal dynamics of the PAC across the brain. We observed distinguishing patterns in the PAC dynamics, as an indicator of information binding, which can explain the slower cognitive processing associated with PD in the form of a latency in the PAC peak time. Thus, considering the high-level connections between the hippocampus, the posterior and prefrontal cortices established through the dorsal and ventral striatum acting as a modulatory system, we posit that the primary issue with cognitive impairments of PD, as well as Levodopa’s cognitive deficit side effects, can be attributed to the changes in temporal dynamics of dopamine release influencing the modulatory function of the striatum.
Range area and the fast–slow continuum of life history traits predict pathogen richness in wild mammals
Authors: Choo Jacqueline , Nghiem Le T. P. , Benítez-López Ana , Carrasco Luis R.
Published: November 2023

Surveillance of pathogen richness in wildlife is needed to identify host species with a high risk of zoonotic disease spillover. While several predictors of pathogen richness in wildlife hosts have been proposed, their relative importance has not been formally examined. This hampers our ability to identify potential disease reservoirs, particularly in remote areas with limited surveillance efforts. Here we analyzed 14 proposed predictors of pathogen richness using ensemble modeling and a dataset of 1040 host species to identify the most important predictors of pathogen richness in wild mammal species. After controlling for research effort, larger species geographic range area was identified to be associated with higher pathogen richness. We found evidence of duality in the relationship between the fast–slow continuum of life-history traits and pathogen richness, where pathogen richness increases near the extremities. Taxonomic orders Carnivora, Proboscidea, Artiodactyla, and Perissodactyla were predicted to host high pathogen richness. The top three species with the highest pathogen richness predicted by our ensemble model were Canis lupus, Sus scrofa, and Alces alces. Our results can help support evidence-informed pathogen surveillance and disease reservoir management to prevent the emergence of future zoonotic diseases.
Consequences of rewetting and ditch cleaning on hydrology, water quality and greenhouse gas balance in a drained northern landscape
Authors: Laudon Hjalmar , Mosquera Virginia , Eklöf Karin , Järveoja Järvi , Karimi Shirin , Krasnova Alisa , Peichl Matthias , Pinkwart Alexander , Tong Cheuk Hei Marcus , Wallin Marcus B , Zannella Alberto , Hasselquist Eliza Maher
Published: November 2023

Drainage for forestry has created ~ 1 million km of artificial waterways in Sweden, making it one of the largest human-induced environmental disturbances in the country. These extensive modifications of both peatland and mineral soil dominated landscapes still carry largely unknown, but potentially enormous environmental legacy effects. However, the consequences of contemporary ditch management strategies, such as hydrological restoration via ditch blocking or enhancing forest drainage to promote biomass production via ditch cleaning, on water resources and greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes are unclear. To close the gap between science and management, we have developed a unique field research platform to experimentally evaluate key environmental strategies for drained northern landscapes with the aim to avoid further environmental degeneration. The Trollberget Experimental Area (TEA) includes replicated and controlled treatments applied at the catchment scale based on a BACI approach (before-after and control-impact). The treatments represent the dominant ecosystem types impacted by ditching in Sweden and the boreal zone: (1) rewetting of a drained peatland, (2) ditch cleaning in productive upland forests and (3) leaving these ditches unmanaged. Here we describe the TEA platform, report initial results, suggest ways forward for how to best manage this historical large-scale alteration of the boreal landscape, as well as warn against applying these treatments broadly before more long-term results are reported.
Modelling habitat suitability for Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala under current and future climate change scenarios
Authors: Bania Jintu Kumar , Deka Jyotish Ranjan , Hazarika Animekh , Das Ashesh Kumar , Nath Arun Jyoti , Sileshi Gudeta W.
Published: November 2023

Moringa oleifera Lam and Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cufod are being widely promoted as multipurpose trees across the tropics for their nutritional, medicinal and soil health benefits. Different parts of these species are edible, have therapeutic values and their seeds are used for water purification. Although the two species are similar in many ways, they have contrasting distributions. However, their current promotion is not guided by adequate knowledge of the suitability of the target areas. Information is also scanty on the suitability of habitats for these species under the current and future climate change scenarios. Therefore, the objective of this study was to predict the habitat suitability of M. oleifera and M. stenopetala under current and future climate change scenarios using an ensemble of models assuming four shared socio-economic pathways, namely, SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5 for 2050 and 2070. The results suggest that areas that are highly suitable for M. oleifera will increase by 0.1% and 3.2% under SSP1-2.6 to SSP5-8.5 by 2050, respectively. By 2070, the area suitable for M. oleifera would likely decrease by 5.4 and 10.6% under SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, respectively. The habitat that is highly suitable for M. stenopetala was predicted to increase by 85–98% under SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios by 2050 and by 2070, while suitable areas could increase by up to 143.6% under SSP5-8.5. The most influential bioclimatic variables for both species were mean diurnal temperature range, mean temperature of driest quarter, precipitation of wettest month, and isothermality. Additionally, soil pH, elevation and water holding capacity were influential variables in the distribution of M. oleifera, while soil pH, soil salinity and slope were influential in M. stenopetala distribution. This study has provided baseline information on the current distribution and possible future habitat suitability, which will be helpful to guide formulation of good policies and practices for promoting Moringa species outside their current range.
Photosynthetic responses of large old Zelkova serrata (Thunb.) Makino trees to different growth environments
Authors: Jung Ji Sun , Lee Gwang Gyu , Son Ji Won , Kim Chae Won , Ahn Yoo Jin
Published: November 2023

Large old trees, which provide ecosystem services and serve as a historical and cultural heritage, are exposed to various environmental threats, such as habitat fragmentation and climate change, necessitating diagnosis of tangible and intangible stresses and their effects on tree growth for effective management. This study investigated the photosynthetic characteristics of 25 large old Zelkova serrata (Thunb.) Makino trees in Chungcheong Province, Korea, and identified the physical environmental factors affecting their physiological responses. Maximum assimilation rate (Amax) was the highest in July (summer), transpiration rate (E) and stomatal conductance (gs) increased from May (spring) to September (fall), and water use efficiency (WUE) was the highest in May (spring) and decreased until September (fall). Amax decreased as tree height increased. Ambient CO2 and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) were negatively correlated with photosynthetic parameters throughout the growth season and in July (summer) and September (fall), respectively. Physical environmental factors exhibited complex effect on physiological activities, which increased with wide growth space and decreased with deep soil covering and high impervious ground surface ratio. Physiological responses differed with surface types within the growth space, with bare land showing higher mean Amax, E, and gs than areas with mulching material or concrete. This study quantitatively determined the physiological activities of large old Z. serrata and proposes appropriate management measures for ensuring their healthy growth in abiotic stress environment.
Development and optimisation of in vitro sonodynamic therapy for glioblastoma
Authors: Keenlyside Andrew , Marples Theodore , Gao Zifan , Hu Hong , Nicely Lynden Guy , Nogales Joaquina , Li Han , Landgraf Lisa , Solth Anna , Melzer Andreas , Hossain-Ibrahim Kismet , Huang Zhihong , Banerjee Sourav , Joseph James
Published: November 2023

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is currently on critical path for glioblastoma therapeutics. SDT is a non-invasive approach utilising focused ultrasound to activate photosensitisers like 5-ALA to impede tumour growth. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic functions of SDT remain enigmatic. This is primarily due to the lack of intricately optimised instrumentation capable of modulating SDT delivery to glioma cells in vitro. Consequently, very little information is available on the effects of SDT on glioma stem cells which are key drivers of gliomagenesis and recurrence. To address this, the current study has developed and validated an automated in vitro SDT system to allow the application and mapping of focused ultrasound fields under varied exposure conditions and setup configurations. The study optimizes ultrasound frequency, intensity, plate base material, thermal effect, and the integration of live cells. Indeed, in the presence of 5-ALA, focused ultrasound induces apoptotic cell death in primary patient-derived glioma cells with concurrent upregulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Intriguingly, primary glioma stem neurospheres also exhibit remarkably reduced 3D growth upon SDT exposure. Taken together, the study reports an in vitro system for SDT applications on tissue culture-based disease models to potentially benchmark the novel approach to the current standard-of-care.
The role of specific isoforms of CaV2 and the common C-terminal of CaV2 in calcium channel function in sensory neurons of Aplysia
Authors: Dunn Tyler W. , Fan Xiaotang , Lee Jiwon , Smith Petranea , Gandhi Rushali , Sossin Wayne S.
Published: November 2023

The presynaptic release apparatus can be specialized to enable specific synaptic functions. Habituation is the diminishing of a physiological response to a frequently repeated stimulus and in Aplysia, habituation to touch is mediated by a decrease in transmitter release from the sensory neurons that respond to touch even after modest rates of action potential firing. This synaptic depression is not common among Aplysia synaptic connections suggesting the presence of a release apparatus specialized for this depression. We found that specific splice forms of ApCaV2, the calcium channel required for transmitter release, are preferentially used in sensory neurons, consistent with a specialized release apparatus. However, we were not able to find a specific ApCaV2 splice uniquely required for synaptic depression. The C-terminus of ApCaV2 alpha1 subunit retains conserved binding to Aplysia rab-3 interacting molecule (ApRIM) and ApRIM-binding protein (ApRBP) and the C-terminus is required for full synaptic expression of ApCaV2. We also identified a splice form of ApRIM that did not interact with the ApCav2 alpha 1 subunit, but it was not preferentially used in sensory neurons.
Application of bi-directional long-short-term memory network in cognitive age prediction based on EEG signals
Authors: Wong Shi-Bing , Tsao Yu , Tsai Wen-Hsin , Wang Tzong-Shi , Wu Hsin-Chi , Wang Syu-Siang
Published: November 2023

Electroencephalography (EEG) measures changes in neuronal activity and can reveal significant changes from infancy to adulthood concomitant with brain maturation, making it a potential physiological marker of brain maturation and cognition. To investigate a promising deep learning tool for EEG classification, we applied the bidirectional long short-term memory (BLSTM) algorithm to analyze EEG data from the pediatric EEG laboratory of Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital. The trained BLSTM model was 86% accurate when identifying EEGs from young children (8 months–6 years) and adolescents (12–20 years). However, there was only a modest classification accuracy (69.3%) when categorizing EEG samples into three age groups (8 months–6 years, 6–12 years, and 12–20 years). For EEG samples from patients with intellectual disability, the prediction accuracy of the trained BLSTM model was 46.4%, which was significantly lower than its accuracy for EEGs from neurotypical patients, indicating that the individual’s intelligence plays a major role in the age prediction. This study confirmed that scalp EEG can reflect brain maturation and the BLSTM algorithm is a feasible deep learning tool for the identification of cognitive age. The trained model can potentially be applied to clinical services as a supportive measurement of neurodevelopmental status.
Knowledge and perception of nosocomial infections among patients in a Nigerian hospital
Authors: Oni Olawale , Orok Edidiong , Lawal Zainab , Ojo Tolulope , Oluwadare Tunrayo , Bamitale Toba , Jaiyesimi Boluwaji , Akinjisola Alice , Apara Titilayo
Published: November 2023

Nosocomial infections are infections that are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients, and can lead to higher healthcare costs and longer hospital stays in both developed and developing countries. The objectives of the study were to identify the level of knowledge and perception of patients on nosocomial infection, and to determine the factors affecting the knowledge and perception of patients on nosocomial infection in Federal Medical Centre, Ebute-Metta, Lagos (FMC). A cross-sectional research design was used in carrying out the research among in-patients of FMC where an interview-based semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Patients’ knowledge was categorised as good (≥ 70% score), fair (50–69%) and poor (< 50% score) while perception was grouped as positive and negative. Independent sample T-test and One-way Analysis of Variance was used to assess statistical difference in knowledge scores between categorical variables with 2 and 3 groups respectively. A total of 102 patients gave consent to participate in this study of which 46.1% were male, 27.5% were aged between 38 and 47 years and 69.6% were married. About 24% did not know what is meant by nosocomial infections while 53.9% stated that all hospital-acquired infections are preventable. Less than 19% strongly disagreed that making alcohol rubs mandatory for all visitors would decrease the incidence of nosocomial infections while all strongly agreed that if left untreated, such infections can become life-threatening. Overall, 15.7% showed good knowledge while most patients showed fair knowledge (71.6%) and a negative perception (51%) of nosocomial infections. There was a significant difference in patients’ knowledge of nosocomial infections based on age (0.012). There was also a statistically significant association between age and perception of patients towards nosocomial infections (p = 0.031). This study showed that most patients had fair knowledge as well as negative perception towards nosocomial infections. Age, had an influence on patients’ perception and knowledge of nosocomial infection.
Dual nature of ferritin for hematologic, liver functional, and metabolic parameters in older diabetic patients
Authors: Huang Jui-Hua , Li Ren-Hau , Tsai Leih-Ching
Published: November 2023

This study explored the association between ferritin with hematologic, liver functional, and metabolic parameters in older diabetic patients. A total of 210 diabetic patients aged 65 or older were classified into four groups according to the reference range of serum ferritin. Demographic variables and health-related lifestyle factors were obtained through the utilization of a standardized questionnaire. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, hematology test, and biochemical assessment were also performed. Among all patients, 29.5% had anemia. The percentage of anemia in groups low ferritin (< 40 μg/L), lower side within the reference range (40–120 μg/L), higher side within the reference range (121–200 μg/L), and high ferritin levels (> 200 μg/L) were 50.0, 27.7, 20.5, and 24.2% (P = 0.025), respectively. Low ferritin levels had a higher risk of anemia and a high red blood cell distribution width (RDW). High ferritin levels were associated with a higher risk of high glutamate pyruvate transaminase, obesity, high fasting blood glucose (FBG), and high postprandial blood glucose. The higher side within the reference range of ferritin also showed a higher risk of high FBG and high glycated hemoglobin. Nevertheless, there was no significant association between ferritin and inflammation marker, serum lipids or blood pressure. Overall, ferritin demonstrates a dual nature in older diabetic patients: low ferritin levels are linked to anemia or elevated RDW, while high levels are linked to obesity, increased liver enzymes, and worse glycemia control.
Mechanism-based structure-activity relationship investigation on hydrolysis kinetics of atmospheric organic nitrates
Authors: Zhao Qiaojing , Xie Hong-Bin , Ma Fangfang , Nie Wei , Yan Chao , Huang Dandan , Elm Jonas , Chen Jingwen
Published: November 2023

Organic nitrates are key components of atmospheric organic aerosols. Hydrolysis is one of their main transformation pathways, affecting atmospheric nitrogen cycle and the properties of organic aerosols. Studying hydrolysis using experiments is hindered by limited authentic chemical standards. To advance our understanding on the hydrolysis of organic nitrates, we apply quantum chemistry methods here to establish a structure-activity relationship of the mechanisms and kinetics by selecting eight organic nitrates as model compounds. The results indicate that an acid-catalyzed mechanism is dominant for the most considered organic nitrates at pH corresponding to ambient organic aerosol (pH < 5). More importantly, a hydrolysis pathway driven by the shift of hydrogen or methyl cation is unveiled. Based on the revealed mechanisms, quaternary C at the α-site, tertiary/quaternary C at the β-site, and –C=C at the β/γ-site of the −ONO2 group are determined to be the key structural factors for the fast hydrolysis kinetics. An important feature for the hydrolysis of organic nitrates with such structural factors is proceeding via a carbocation intermediate. The formed carbocation could further mediate the organic aerosol chemistry, affecting the composition and properties of organic aerosols. This study provides a basis to further develop predictive models for hydrolysis kinetics of organic nitrates.
Radiative forcing bias calculation based on COSMO (Core-Shell Mie model Optimization) and AERONET data
Authors: Tiwari Pravash , Cohen Jason Blake , Wang Xinying , Wang Shuo , Qin Kai
Published: November 2023

Direct radiative forcing (DRF) of aerosols is driven by aerosol concentration, size, and mixing state, and solar radiation. This work introduces Core-Shell Mie model optimization (COSMO) to compute top of the atmosphere (TOA) forcing based on inversely constrained black carbon (BC) size and mixing state from AERONET, over two rapidly developing areas: Lumbini and Taihu. COSMO has both, a less negative TOA than AERONET and a wider range of variability, with the mean and standard deviation difference between COSMO and AERONET being 13 ± 8.1 W m−2at Lumbini and 16 ± 12 W m−2at Taihu. These differences are driven by particle aging and size-resolved BC emissions, with up to 17.9% of cases warmer than the maximum AERONET TOA, and 1.9% of the total possible cases show a net-warming at TOA (TOA > 0). A linearized correction is deduced which can be immediately implemented by climate models, and suggested ranges of BC size and mixing observations are made for future campaigns. Given that the COSMO TOA bias and uncertainty are larger than the forcing of locally emitted GHGs, active consideration of BC is necessary to reduce climate uncertainty in developing areas.
Gap junction-mediated contraction of myoepithelial cells induces the peristaltic transport of sweat in human eccrine glands
Authors: Nakashima Kie , Kato Hiroko , Kurata Ryuichiro , Qianwen Luo , Hayakawa Tomohisa , Okada Fumihiro , Fujita Fumitaka , Nakagawa Yukinobu , Tanemura Atsushi , Murota Hiroyuki , Katayama Ichiro , Sekiguchi Kiyotoshi
Published: November 2023

Eccrine sweat glands play an essential role in regulating body temperature. Sweat is produced in the coiled secretory portion of the gland, which is surrounded by obliquely aligned myoepithelial cells; the sweat is then peristaltically transported to the skin surface. Myoepithelial cells are contractile and have been implicated in sweat transport, but how myoepithelial cells contract and transport sweat remains unexplored. Here, we perform ex vivo live imaging of an isolated human eccrine gland and demonstrate that cholinergic stimulation induces dynamic contractile motion of the coiled secretory duct that is driven by gap junction-mediated contraction of myoepithelial cells. The contraction of the secretory duct occurs segmentally, and it is most prominent in the region surrounded by nerve fibers, followed by distension-contraction sequences of the excretory duct. Overall, our ex vivo live imaging approach provides evidence of the contractile function of myoepithelial cells in peristaltic sweat secretion from human eccrine glands.
Synthesis of highly substituted alkenes by sulfur-mediated olefination of N-tosylhydrazones
Authors: Conen Peter , Nickisch Roman , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: November 2023

Tetraphenylethylenes (TPEs) are well-known for their aggregation-induced emission properties. The synthesis of TPE derivatives, as well as other highly substituted olefins, generally requires the use of hazardous reagents, such as metalorganic compounds, to overcome the high activation energies caused by the sterically congested double bond. Herein, we present an efficient and metal-free procedure for the synthesis of tetraarylethylenes via alkylidene-homocoupling of N-tosylhydrazones, derived from readily available benzophenones, in excellent yields. The method relies only on cheap and benign additives, i.e. elemental sulfur and potassium carbonate, and easily competes with other established procedures in terms of scope, yield and practicability. A mechanistic study revealed a diazo compound, a thioketone and a thiirane as key intermediates in the pathway of the reaction. Based on this, a modified method, which allows for selective alkylidene-cross-coupling, generating a broader scope of tri- and tetrasubstituted olefins in good yields, is showcased as well.
Gaussian clustering and quantification of the sperm chromatin dispersion test using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Yang Zheng , Zhang Lei , Fan Heng , Yan Bei , Mu Yaoqin , Zhou Yue , Pei Chengbin , Li Longjie , Xiao Xianjin
Published: November 2023

Adaptive automation of the sperm chromatin dispersion test with geometric feature-extracting convolution networks.
Total synthesis of highly oxygenated phomopsol B via acid-induced etherification to construct a bridged structure
Authors: Kawamoto Yuichiro , Nishitani Ayaka , Yoshimura Yukari , Kobayashi Toyoharu , Ito Hisanaka
Published: November 2023

The first total synthesis of phomopsol B has been achieved in 14 steps, featuring deacetylative cyclization to construct a bicyclic skeleton, primary alcohol-assisted dihydroxylation, ether cyclization to construct a dioxabicyclo [3.2.1] skeleton.
[RbSr3X][(BS3)2] (X = Cl, Br): two salt-inclusion thioborates with large birefringence and structure transformation from centrosymmetric to asymmetric
Authors: Yun Yihan , Hou Xueling , Yang Zhihua , Li Guangmao , Pan Shilie
Published: November 2023

[RbSr3X][(BS3)2] (X = Cl, Br), two salt-inclusion chalcogenides with CS-to-NCS structure transformation were obtained.
Heterogeneous photocatalysis for biomass valorization to organic acids
Authors: Liu Tengyu , Huang Jinshu , Li Jie , Wang Keping , Guo Zhenyan , Wu Hongguo , Yang Song , Li Hu
Published: November 2023

This review outlines recent progress in the photocatalytic conversion of biomass into organic acids with an emphasis on the mechanisms involved and strategies for the rational design/regulation of photocatalytic systems to enhance performance.
Maskless patterning of metal nanoparticles and silicon nanostructures by a droplet deposition and etching process
Authors: Tsao Chia-Wen , Shen Ping-Chin
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a cost-effective method using a pipette tip for depositing metal nanoparticles and creating silicon nanostructures. It simplifies coating silver and gold nanoparticles, allowing for mask-free selective region patterning.
Development of an open-source flow-through cyclic voltammetry cell for real-time inline reaction analytics
Authors: Rial-Rodríguez Eduardo , Williams Jason D. , Eggenweiler Hans-Michael , Fuchss Thomas , Sommer Alena , Kappe C. Oliver , Cantillo David
Published: November 2023

A low volume flow-through cyclic voltammetry cell design that can be readily constructed from commercial fluidic components enables rapid inline monitoring of redox active species.
Monodispersed PtCo alloy nanoparticles with a modulated d-band center exhibiting highly efficient hydrogen evolution
Authors: Yan Chengcheng , An Wei , Shen Tongjun , Ma Ling , Zhang Mengyang , Gao Fuming , Yang Tuo , Wang Chunxia , Huang Guoyong , Xu Shengming
Published: November 2023

The monodispersed PtCo alloy nanoparticles anchored on nitrogen doped porous carbon formed by chemical reduction demonstrate a lowered d-band center, a reduced adsorption energy towards intermediate, and accelerated HER performance.
A 3D-printed CuNi alloy catalyst with a triply periodic minimal surface for the reverse water-gas shift reaction
Authors: Li Wenbin , Ding Junhao , Chen Xiao , Wang You , Song Xu , Zhang Sai
Published: November 2023

A monolithic CuNi alloy catalyst with a typical triply periodic minimal surface, which is fabricated using 3D printing technology, exhibits significantly enhanced mass and heat transfer as well as exceptional stability towards the RWGS reaction.
Stellar mass is not the best predictor of galaxy metallicity
Authors: Sánchez-Menguiano Laura , Sánchez Almeida Jorge , Sánchez Sebastián F. , Muñoz-Tuñón Casiana
Published: November 2023

Context. Interpreting the scaling relations followed by galaxies is a fundamental tool for assessing how well we understand galaxy formation and evolution. Several scaling relations involving the galaxy metallicity have been discovered through the years, the foremost of which is the scaling with stellar mass. This so-called mass–metallicity relation is thought to be fundamental and has been subject to many studies in the literature.

Aims. We study the dependence of the gas-phase metallicity on many different galaxy properties to assess which of them determines the metallicity of a galaxy.

Methods. We applied a random forest regressor algorithm on a sample of more than 3000 nearby galaxies from the SDSS-IV MaNGA survey. Using this machine-learning technique, we explored the effect of 148 parameters on the global oxygen abundance as an indicator of the gas metallicity.

Results. M⋆/Re, as a proxy for the baryonic gravitational potential of the galaxy, is found to be the primary factor determining the average gas-phase metallicity of the galaxy (Zg). It outweighs stellar mass. A subsequent analysis provides the strongest dependence of Zg on M⋆/Re0.6. We argue that this parameter traces the total gravitational potential, and the exponent α ≃ 0.6 accounts for the inclusion of the dark matter component.

Conclusions. Our results reveal the importance of the relation between the total gravitational potential of the galaxy and the gas metallicity. This relation is tighter and likely more primordial than the widely known mass–metallicity relation.
The isolated dark matter-poor galaxy that ran away
Authors: Mitrašinović Ana , Smole Majda , Micic Miroslav
Published: November 2023

Since the discovery of dark matter-deficient galaxies, numerous studies have shown that these exotic galaxies naturally occur in the ΛCDM model due to stronger tidal interactions. They are typically satellites, with stellar masses in the 108 − 109 M⊙ range, of more massive galaxies. The recent discovery of a massive galaxy lacking dark matter and also lacking a more massive neighbor is puzzling. Two possible scenarios have been suggested in the literature: either the galaxy lost its dark matter early or it had been lacking ab initio. As a proof of concept for the former assumption, we present an example from IllustrisTNG300. At present, the galaxy has a stellar mass of M⋆ ≃ 6.8 × 109 M⊙, with no gas, MDM/MB ≃ 1.31, and a stellar half-mass radius of R0.5, ⋆ = 2.45 kpc. It lost the majority of its dark matter early, between z = 2.32 and z = 1.53. Since then, it has continued to dwell in the cluster environment, interacting with the cluster members without merging, while accelerating on its orbit. Eventually, it left the cluster and it has spent the last ∼2 Gyr in isolation, residing just outside the most massive cluster in the simulation. Thus, the galaxy represents the first example found in simulations of both an isolated dark matter-poor galaxy that lost its extended envelope early and a fairly compact stellar system that has managed to escape.
Th17 Cell-Related Gene Biomarkers in Osteoporosis: Comprehensive
Bioinformatics Analysis and In Vivo Validation
Authors: Chen Jianxing , Sun Qifeng , Yin Wenzhe
Published: November 2023

The interaction between the bone and immune systems has a major role in
osteoporosis regulation. However, the infiltration of T helper 17 (Th17) cells
and their associated genes in osteoporosis remains unclear. The GSE35959 dataset
was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and the Immune
Cell Abundance Identifier (ImmuCellAI) program was used to evaluate the
abundance of 24 immune cell types, including Th17 cells. Differential analysis
and relevance analysis were performed to identify differentially expressed Th17
cell-related genes (DETh17RGs) in osteoporosis. The potential functions of
DETh17RGs were analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes
and Genomes (KEGG) pathways enrichment. Hub DETh17RGs were obtained through
comprehensive analysis using Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis
(WGCNA) and the CytoHubba plug-in algorithm. The expression levels of hub genes
were validated using additional osteoporosis datasets. Additionally, the
transcript levels of Hub genes in a mice model of osteoporosis were examined
using quantitative PCR (qPCR). 464 DETh17RGs were identified in this study, with
421 genes showing positive associations and 43 genes showing negative
associations. Among these, seven genes (CD44, TGFB1, ACTN4, ARHGDIA, ESR1, TLN1,
FLNA) were considered as Hub DETh17RGs. The qPCR transcript levels of hub
DETh17RGs in a mice model of osteoporosis exhibited consistent expression trends
with the bioinformatics analysis. This research enhances our understanding of
the molecular mechanisms involving Th17 cells in the development of osteoporosis
and contributes to the discovery of potential biomarkers.
Synthesis of 2′-Deoxy-2′-β-fluoro-4′-azido-5-fluorouridine as a Potential Anti-HIV Agent
Authors: Yu Wenquan , Chang Junbiao , Hou Jiao , Wang Jian-Hua
Published: November 2023

2′-Deoxy-2′-β-fluoro-4′-azido-5-fluorouridine, a new pyrimidine nucleoside analogue of azvudine (FNC), was designed and synthesized. The synthesis of this nucleoside analogue was achieved by bromination of 1,3,5-O-tribenzoyl-2-deoxy-2-fluoro-d-arabinofuranoside, followed by reaction with silylated 5-fluorouracil and further modifications of the sugar moiety, in a 7.6% overall yield over nine steps. The product exhibited good antiviral activity against HIV-1 infection in HEK293T cells.
Modeling the intention and adoption of food waste prevention practices among Chinese households
Authors: Ma Yue , Al Mamun Abdullah , Ali Mohd Helmi , Hoque Mohammad Enamul , Lili Zhai
Published: November 2023

Considerable attention has been paid to the problem of food waste on a worldwide scale. Evidence demonstrates that food waste occurs mostly in private households, and that home food waste has been identified as the leading cause of global food waste. Home food waste poses a severe threat to food security and involves environmental and financial ramifications. While this is a global issue, most studies on what motivates people to make changes that would result in less food waste have been conducted in wealthy countries. Integrating the Theory of Interpersonal Behavior (TIB), this study fills this gap by investigating the factors influencing Chinese household consumers’ intentions toward food waste reduction and their actual food waste behavior. This study used a cross-sectional survey approach to collect data from households using social media platforms. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was adopted to assess and evaluate the conceptual model. The empirical findings demonstrate that cognitive (perceived value of sustainability), environmental (awareness of consequences and ascription of responsibility), social (social norms), and emotional (anticipated guilt) aspects tend to have a positive influence on Chinese household consumers’ intentions toward reducing food waste, suggesting that interpersonal behavior could reduce food consumption in developing countries like China. Furthermore, the findings show that the intention to decrease food waste serves as an intermediary variable that highlights another route of association between the TIB factors and actual food waste reduction behavior. The findings will be more informative to policymakers, marketers, and researchers in developing strategies to reduce food waste.
Generation Z members‘ intentions to work in tourism in their World Heritage Site hometowns
Authors: Bermúdez-González Guillermo , Sánchez-Teba Eva María , Benítez-Márquez María-Dolores , Vegas-Melero José Jesús
Published: November 2023

This study analyzes the impact of four dimensions on Generation Z’s intentions to work in the tourism industry in their hometown of Antequera (Malaga, Spain) within the specific tourism context of World Heritage Sites (WHSs). We estimate the influence of young residents’ perceptions toward tourism development through WHS recognition, community involvement, and place attachment on this variable, following the theory of planned behavior (TPB). A structural equation model based on variance by partial least squares, PLS-SEM, has been proposed. The results show that Generation Z’s community involvement, place attachment, and positive perceptions toward tourism development directly influence their intentions to work in their WHS hometown; meanwhile, the negative perceptions toward tourism development have no direct impact on these intentions to work.
Monsters revisited: a comparative study of the use of humor in dramatizing benevolent monsters in The Monsters under the Bed and The Boy Who Loved Monsters and the Girl Who Loved Peas
Authors: Bayoumy Heidi Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Works for children are filled with a myriad of creatures that are often used by writers to convey certain messages to the young readers/audiences. From tamed to wild, real and imaginary beings, such creatures emerge either as benevolent or evil forces. This study seeks to highlight the role of humorous, benevolent monsters in works for children showing how their presence is laden with meanings. For this purpose, two plays for children are selected: The Monsters under the Bed (2007) by Fr. Dominic Garramone and Osb and the St.Bede Theater Troupe, and The Boy Who Loved Monsters and the Girl Who Loved Peas (2013) by Jonathan Graham. Drawing upon humor studies, monster studies, and child psychology, the paper attempts to analyze the use of humor in portraying friendly monsters in the selected works reflecting how it is through them that the children protagonists revisit their views of monsters and understand that they are a reflection of themselves (their needs/fears). The analysis of these benevolent monsters and their effect on the protagonists will be carried out in relation to the different theatrical elements and the verbal and visual signs which clarify and affirm the benevolence of such creatures and the humorous touch added to their roles.
Tracing China’s diplomatic transition to wolf warrior diplomacy and its implications
Authors: Yuan Shaoyu
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the evolution of China’s diplomacy, specifically its transition from a peaceful and low-profile approach to the assertive and confrontational wolf warrior style, and its implications for international relations, regional politics, and global governance. With China’s growing influence on the global stage, understanding the dynamics of its diplomatic strategy is crucial for navigating the complexities of contemporary international relations. The paper examines the underlying motivations for adopting the wolf warrior approach, using three case studies during the COVID-19 pandemic: the Twitter spat between Zhao Lijian and the U.S. State Department, the diplomatic conflict between China and Australia, and the confrontation between China and Sweden. These incidents provide valuable insights into the various dimensions of China’s wolf warrior diplomacy, including its assertive rhetoric, challenge to traditional diplomatic norms, and the leveraging of economic power for political ends.
Antimicrobial resistance patterns and empiric antibiotic selections for patients admitted from post–acute care facilities
Authors: Vijapurapu Sandhya , Maguire Christina , Binkley Amanda , Binkley Shawn , Lamore Raymond
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To characterize the susceptibilities of positive bacterial cultures and the appropriateness of empiric antimicrobial regimens for patients admitted from post–acute care facilities (PACFs).

Methods

This was a retrospective quality improvement study. The study included patients admitted from a PACF to one of 2 tertiary care teaching hospitals within the University of Pennsylvania Health System, located in Philadelphia, PA, from August 2020 to December 2021. Patients were included if they had at least one positive culture within 72 hours of admission.

Results

A total of 167 patients and 230 isolates from the study period were evaluated. The majority of positive cultures were from a urinary source (114 of 230, 49.6%). Nineteen patients (11.4%) had a history of multidrug-resistant organisms. The most common empiric antibiotics used were vancomycin (61.7%) and cefepime (59.3%). Sixty-one patients (36.5%) received inappropriate empiric therapy based on the culture results. When comparing our hospitals’ general antibiogram to that of only PACF patients, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae had at least a 20% difference in susceptibility to levofloxacin, ceftriaxone, and cefepime. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase resistance was also higher in the PACF cohort (odds ratio, 2.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-3.1).

Conclusion

Clinically significant differences in antimicrobial susceptibility were found among patients admitted from PACFs compared to our health system’s general antibiogram. The increased resistance rates identified in this study support the need for hospitals to evaluate this at-risk patient population, which may drive changes to empiric antibiotic prescribing practices.
A O01 Bariatric tourism: Patients perspective
Authors: Ftaieh Fares , Jindal Anushka , Patel Ameet G , Shanti Hiba
Published: November 2023

Background

The Long NHS waiting time for bariatric surgery and the escalation of this during the COVID-19 pandemic has led many patients to seek private bariatric surgery abroad. It remains difficult to quantify the volume of Bariatric tourism and its outcomes. However, institutions across the UK have seen an increased influx of patients operated abroad. The aim of this study is to assess the outcomes, experience and rationale for their bariatric journey.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who had bariatric surgery abroad and presented to a tertiary centre from September 2020 to May 2023. All patients were interviewed to answer a questionnaire regarding their experience abroad; either by telephone or face to face. Data collected included weight, BMI, co-morbidities and post-operative complications.

Results

Forty-one patients presented with median age of 37 years (20-59), weight 100Kg (68-146) and BMI 38 Kg/m2 (26-65). Of these, 35/41 (85%) patients were admitted with complications (above Clavien Dindo Classification IIIa > 9./35). GP referral for advice accounted for 6/41 (15%). The response rate to the questionnaire was 56% (23/41). The main reasons for bariatric tourism were cost and long NHS waiting time. Overseas centre choice was based on online research in 13/23 (57%), while 10/23 (43%) patients relied on friends recommendations. 10/23 (43%) patients would recommend treatment abroad, of theses 3 patients had CDC >IIIa.

Conclusions

Even in the event of complications, patients would still recommend going abroad. This might be influenced by the reassurance that complications will be dealt with promptly at the NHS. They will achieve their weight loss quickly and at a fraction of the cost of the private hospitals on the UK.
A O02 How effective is the right subcostal laparoscopically-guided transversus abdominis plane block on pain control after laparoscopic cholecystectomy? A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Di Mauro Davide , Reece-Smith Alex , Manzelli Antonio , Shams Ola , Njere Ikechukwu , Hubble Sheena
Published: November 2023

Background

The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is effective on pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The procedure can be done under laparoscopic or ultrasound guidance and is often performed by injecting multiple abdominal areas. Data on the efficacy of the loco-regional block performed in the right subcostal region only are scanty. This study compared the effect of the right subcostal TAP block under laparoscopic guidance to the infiltration of local anesthetic to the port sites only (ILA) on pain relief, after elective LC.

Methods

A sample of 60 participants, 30 per arm, was estimated (two-sided a = 0.05%, power = 80%). Subjects having day-case (DC) LC were randomized into TAP block and ILA. Participants received Bupivacaine 0.5% 30 ml: TAP block – 20 ml in TAP block + 10 ml into the midline ports; ILA – 20 ml into the midline ports + 10 ml into the right-sided ones. Pain scores at rest at 1-hour post-surgery and at discharge, were evaluated with the Visual Analogue Scale score system. DC rate, Quality of Recovery-15 questionnaires, oral intake of opioids at day 3 and 7, were assessed too.

Results

Subjects in the ILA group were all women (p=0.0007) and younger (43.8 vs 37.7 years, p=0.023) than the TAP block. The median postoperative pain scores were 0 vs 1 at 1 hour (95% CI -1.99 to 1, p=0.60), 0 vs 1.5 at discharge (95% CI -2 to 0.99, p=0.55). The DC rate was 93.1% vs 93.5% (p=0.39). Six (10%) patients remained in hospital after surgery (postoperative pain [3], nausea [1], challenging surgical procedure [1], late theatre schedule [1]). Questionnaire scores and oral opioids intake did not differ between groups, on postoperative day 3 and 7.

Conclusions

The laparoscopically-guided right subcostal TAP block did not provide additional benefit to ILA on pain control, after LC.