bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monkeys who experience more feeding competition utilize social information to learn foraging skills faster
Authors: Arseneau-Robar T. Jean M. , Anderson Karyn A. , Sicotte Pascale , Teichroeb Julie A.
Published: July 2023

Animals must learn foraging skills to successfully survive and reproduce but the sources of interindividual variation in learning are poorly understood. For example, there is little consensus on the role motivation plays, even though it is a key factor impacting learning outcomes in humans. Here, we conduct a field experiment on a wild primate to investigate whether an individual’s vulnerability to feeding competition impacts their motivation to learn a beneficial foraging technique. We provided a group of monkeys with a food reward (i.e., a half banana) that needed to be retrieved from a box. The monkeys discovered an efficient technique that consistently allowed them to retrieve the banana quickly, decreasing the risk of food loss to competitors. We found that individuals who frequently experienced feeding competition learned this efficient technique significantly faster than individuals who rarely foraged in the presence of a dominant competitor. They appeared to use social learning to learn faster as they were more attentive to the handling techniques others used and improved their foraging skills after opportunities to observe a skilled demonstrator. These findings support that an individual’s vulnerability to feeding competition impacts their motivation to learn foraging skills that reduce food loss to competitors.
Unveiling underestimated species diversity within the Central American Coralsnake, a medically important complex of venomous taxa
Authors: Jowers Michael J. , Smart Utpal , Sánchez-Ramírez Santiago , Murphy John C. , Gómez Aarón , Bosque Renan J. , Sarker Goutam C. , Noonan Brice P. , Faria J. Filipe , Harris D. James , da Silva Nelson Jorge , Prudente Ana L. C. , Weber John , Kok Philippe J. R. , Rivas Gilson A. , Jadin Robert C. , Sasa Mahmood , Muñoz-Mérida Antonio , Moreno-Rueda Gregorio , Smith Eric N.
Published: July 2023

Coralsnakes of the genus Micrurus are a diverse group of venomous snakes ranging from the southern United States to southern South America. Much uncertainty remains over the genus diversity, and understanding Micrurus systematics is of medical importance. In particular, the widespread Micrurus nigrocinctus spans from Mexico throughout Central America and into Colombia, with a number of described subspecies. This study provides new insights into the phylogenetic relationships within M. nigrocinctus by examining sequence data from a broad sampling of specimens from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. The recovered phylogenetic relationships suggest that M. nigrocinctus is a species complex originating in the Pliocene and composed of at least three distinct species-level lineages. In addition, recovery of highly divergent clades supports the elevation of some currently recognized subspecies to the full species rank while others may require synonymization.
Measuring acute effects of subanesthetic ketamine on cerebrovascular hemodynamics in humans using TD-fNIRS
Authors: Castillo Adelaida , Dubois Julien , Field Ryan M. , Fishburn Frank , Gundran Andrew , Ho Wilson C. , Jawhar Sami , Kates-Harbeck Julian , M. Aghajan Zahra , Miller Naomi , Perdue Katherine L. , Phillips Jake , Ryan Wesley C. , Shafiei Mahdi , Scholkmann Felix , Taylor Moriah
Published: July 2023

Quantifying neural activity in natural conditions (i.e. conditions comparable to the standard clinical patient experience) during the administration of psychedelics may further our scientific understanding of the effects and mechanisms of action. This data may facilitate the discovery of novel biomarkers enabling more personalized treatments and improved patient outcomes. In this single-blind, placebo-controlled study with a non-randomized design, we use time-domain functional near-infrared spectroscopy (TD-fNIRS) to measure acute brain dynamics after intramuscular subanesthetic ketamine (0.75 mg/kg) and placebo (saline) administration in healthy participants (n = 15, 8 females, 7 males, age 32.4 ± 7.5 years) in a clinical setting. We found that the ketamine administration caused an altered state of consciousness and changes in systemic physiology (e.g. increase in pulse rate and electrodermal activity). Furthermore, ketamine led to a brain-wide reduction in the fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuations, and a decrease in the global brain connectivity of the prefrontal region. Lastly, we provide preliminary evidence that a combination of neural and physiological metrics may serve as predictors of subjective mystical experiences and reductions in depressive symptomatology. Overall, our study demonstrated the successful application of fNIRS neuroimaging to study the physiological effects of the psychoactive substance ketamine in humans, and can be regarded as an important step toward larger scale clinical fNIRS studies that can quantify the impact of psychedelics on the brain in standard clinical settings.
Differentiation between multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder using a deep learning model
Authors: Seok Jin Myoung , Cho Wanzee , Chung Yeon Hak , Ju Hyunjin , Kim Sung Tae , Seong Joon-Kyung , Min Ju-Hong
Published: July 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are autoimmune inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) with similar characteristics. The differential diagnosis between MS and NMOSD is critical for initiating early effective therapy. In this study, we developed a deep learning model to differentiate between multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. The model was based on a modified ResNet18 convolution neural network trained with 5-channel images created by selecting five 2D slices of 3D FLAIR images. The accuracy of the model was 76.1%, with a sensitivity of 77.3% and a specificity of 74.8%. Positive and negative predictive values were 76.9% and 78.6%, respectively, with an area under the curve of 0.85. Application of Grad-CAM to the model revealed that white matter lesions were the major classifier. This compact model may aid in the differential diagnosis of MS and NMOSD in clinical practice.
Immune response to pertussis vaccine in COPD patients
Authors: Feredj E. , Wiedemann A. , Krief C. , Maitre B. , Derumeaux G. , Chouaid C. , Le Corvoisier P. , Lacabaratz C. , Gallien S. , Lelièvre J. D. , Boyer L.
Published: July 2023

Exacerbation triggered by respiratory infection is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Strategies aiming to preventing infection may have significant public health impact. Our previous study demonstrated decreased immunological response to seasonal flu vaccination in COPD patients, questioning the efficiency of other vaccines in this group of patients. We performed a prospective, monocenter, longitudinal study that evaluated the humoral and cellular responses upon pertussis vaccination. We included 13 patients with stable COPD and 8 healthy volunteers. No difference in circulating B and T cell subsets at baseline was noted. Both groups presented similar levels of TFH, plasmablasts and pertussis specific antibodies induction after vaccination. Moreover, monitoring T cell immunity after ex-vivo peptide stimulation revealed equivalent induction of functional and specific CD4+ T cells (IFNγ, TNFα and IL-2-expressing T cells) in both groups. Our results highlight the immunological efficiency of pertussis vaccination in this particularly vulnerable population and challenge the concept that COPD patients are less responsive to all immunization strategies. Healthcare providers should stress the necessity of decennial Tdap booster vaccination in COPD patients.
Laser-accelerated electron beams at 1 GeV using optically-induced shock injection
Authors: v. Grafenstein K. , Foerster F. M. , Haberstroh F. , Campbell D. , Irshad F. , Salgado F. C. , Schilling G. , Travac E. , Weiße N. , Zepf M. , Döpp A. , Karsch S.
Published: July 2023

In recent years, significant progress has been made in laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA), both regarding the increase in electron energy, charge and stability as well as the reduction of bandwidth of electron bunches. Simultaneous optimization of these parameters is, however, still the subject of an ongoing effort in the community to reach sufficient beam quality for next generation’s compact accelerators. In this report, we show the design of slit-shaped gas nozzles providing centimeter-long supersonic gas jets that can be used as targets for the acceleration of electrons to the GeV regime. In LWFA experiments at the Centre for Advanced Laser Applications, we show that electron bunches are accelerated to $${1}\text {GeV}$$

1
GeV

using these nozzles. The electron bunches were injected into the laser wakefield via a laser-machined density down-ramp using hydrodynamic optical-field-ionization and subsequent plasma expansion on a ns-timescale. This injection method provides highly controllable quasi-monoenergetic electron beams with high charge around $${100}\text {pC}$$

100
pC

, low divergence of $${0.5}\text {mrad}$$

0.5

mrad

, and a relatively small energy spread of around $${10}\%$$

10
%

at $${1}\text {GeV}$$

1
GeV

. In contrast to capillaries and gas cells, the scheme allows full plasma access for injection, probing or guiding in order to further improve the energy and quality of LWFA beams.
Sulphate-reducing bacteria-mediated pyrite formation in the Dachang Tongkeng tin polymetallic deposit, Guangxi, China
Authors: Jia Fuju , Lei Xiangtong , Yan Yongfeng , Su Yaru , Zhou Hongjun , Wei Honglian , Yuan Yuan , Zou Chao , Shi Xianwen , Yang Ceting
Published: July 2023

Mediation by sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) is responsible for pyrite (FeS2) formation. The origin of the Dachang tin polymetallic ore field is related to the mineralisation of submarine hydrothermal vent sediments. Here, we investigated SRB in these ores via morphological, chemical, and isotopic analyses. Polarised and scanning electron microscopy indicated that trace SRB fossils in the metal sulphide ore were present in the form of tubular, beaded, and coccoidal bodies comprising FeS2 and were enclosed within a pyrrhotite (FeS) matrix in the vicinity of micro-hydrothermal vents. The carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and oxygen (O) contents in the FeS2 synthesised by SRB were high, and a clear biological Raman signal was detected. No such signals were discerned in the peripheral FeS. This co-occurrence of FeS, FeS2, and the remains of bacteria (probably chemoautotrophic bacteria) was interpreted as the coprecipitation process of SRB-mediated FeS2 formation, which has, to the best of our knowledge, not been reported before. Our study also illustrates that combined energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and isotopic analysis can be used as a novel methodology to document microbial-mediated processes of mineral deposition in submarine hydrothermal vent ecology on geological time scales.
Magnetic resin composites for the enrichment of proteins, peptides and phosphopeptides
Authors: Wang Yu , Pan Yini , Yan Zhichao , Zhong Zhihua , Zhang Lingyi , Zhang Weibing
Published: July 2023

Two types of resin@Fe3O4 were synthesized for the enrichment of proteins, peptides and phosphopeptides due to different adsorption mechanisms.
A spontaneous hydrogen fuel purifier under truly ambient weather conditions
Authors: Mondal Ritwik , Thimmappa Ravikumar , Nayak Bhojkumar , Dewan Anweshi , Devendrachari Mruthyunjayachari Chattanahalli , Chen Qingsong , Wen Zhenhai , Thotiyl Musthafa Ottakam
Published: July 2023

Spontaneous purification of impure hydrogen fuel streams during electric power delivery by harvesting the energy of water formation.
Dual-emissive persistent luminescent phosphors for multi-mode anti-counterfeiting and ratiometric luminescent aptasensors
Authors: Lin Peng , Shi Junpeng , Liu Lin , Kang Yile , Song Liang , Hong Maochun , Zhang Yun
Published: July 2023

The developed dual-emissive persistent luminescent phosphors exhibit unique luminescence properties and have been designed for multi-responsive anti-counterfeiting and ratiometric luminescent aptasensors.
Recent developments and prospects for engineering first-row transition metal-based catalysts for electrocatalytic NOx− reduction to ammonia
Authors: Feng Yi , Chen Lei , Yuan Zhong-Yong
Published: July 2023

First-row transition metal-based electrocatalysts, including Cu, Fe, Co, Ni, and Ti-based electrocatalysts, for high-efficiency NOx− reduction are reviewed. These electrocatalysts should possess three advantages indicated in the figure above.
A “turn-off” photoluminescent sensor for H2O2 detection based on a zinc oxide–graphene quantum dot (ZnO–GQD) nanocomposite and the role of amine in the development of GQD
Authors: Ramírez Garza Rolando Efraín , Rodríguez de Luna Sara Luisa , Padrón Genoveva Hernández , Gómez de la Fuente Idalia
Published: July 2023

Zinc nanoparticles (ZnNP) and graphene quantum dots (GQD) were synthesized as nanocomposite. We have studied this nanocomposite for the H2O2 detection by photoluminescence (PL). ZnNP enhanced the PL emission of GQD and contributed to H2O2 detection.
The investigation of the ultrafast excited state deactivation mechanisms for coumarin 307 in different solvents
Authors: Ge Jing , Zhang Xue-Dong , Li Zhi-Biao , Xue Bing-Qian , Bai Xi-Lin
Published: July 2023

The excited-state dynamics of C307 have been investigated through steady-state/time-resolved transient absorption spectroscopy and steady-state photoluminescence spectroscopy, combined with theoretical calculations.
Green, facile and fast synthesis of silver nanoparticles by using solution plasma techniques and their antibacterial and anticancer activities
Authors: Van Hao Nguyen , Tung Do Hoang , Hung Nguyen Phu , Hoa Vu Xuan , Ha Ngo Thu , Khanh Van Nguyen Thi , Tan Pham The , Van Trinh Pham
Published: July 2023

A green, facile and fast approach based on the solution plasma technique was utilized for synthesizing AgNPs for antibacterial and anticancer applications.
A salt pollution self-cleaning Al based solar desalination evaporator fabricated using a picosecond laser
Authors: Li Weizhen , Chu Dongkai , Wang Qingwei , Yin Kai , Zhang Honghao , Qu Shuoshuo , Yao Peng
Published: July 2023

Salt pollution self-healing Al based solar evaporators are processed by using a picosecond laser. The evaporation rate can reach 2.325 kg m−2 h−1 with a solar intensity of 0.95 kW m−2.
Magnetic and optoelectronic modulation of Cu-MOF-74 films by quantum dots
Authors: Mao Zhimin , Zhang Su-Yun , Zhao Duo , Weng Xiaoliang , Kang Chenxu , Fang Hui , Zeng Yu-Jia
Published: July 2023

The introduction of SnS:Co in Cu-MOF-74 films effectively modulates magnetic and optoelectronic performances of the MOF film, which can be considered as a promising magnetic semiconductor for spintronic and optoelectronic devices.
Efficient and ultra-broadband Cr3+/Ni2+ co-doped phosphors for light-emitting diodes with spectral output over NIR-I and NIR-II regions
Authors: Jia Qianyi , Yao Leqi , Yu Shijie , Gong Shuxuan , Jiang Jianqing , Shao Qiyue
Published: July 2023

A blue-light excitable near-infrared (NIR) MgGa2(O,F)4:Cr3+,Ni2+ phosphor is developed, which exhibits an ultrabroad NIR emission from 700 to 1500 nm and an internal quantum efficiency of up to 83.3%.
Optimal sliding mode control for frequency stabilization of hybrid renewable energy systems
Authors: Elsaied Mohamed M. , Abdel Hameed Walid H. , Hasanien Hany M. , Tostado‐Véliz Marcos , Al‐Ammar Essam A. , Jurado Francisco
Published: July 2023

The constant changes in the load power lead permanently to a power mismatch between the power generation and the power consumption. So, the system frequency due to the power imbalance deviates from the nominal value. Consequently, a control loop should be implemented to stabilize the system frequency whenever a load change occurs. This paper presents a new super‐twisting sliding mode control methodology for obtaining an optimal frequency performance in a multi‐pool system. The paper presents a three‐pool system for frequency deviation problems using an optimal gain Super Twisting Sliding Mode Controller (STSMC), which regulates the frequency change and the line power change to zero in a minimal time. The extent of the excellence of the study proposed is evaluated by comparing it with three Benchmark classical controllers, which are the Tilt‐Integral‐Derivative (TID), Proportional‐Integral‐Derivative (PID), and Fractional‐Order PID (FOPID). The parameters of the four controllers are determined by a proposed physical meta‐heuristic optimization technique called Transient Search Optimizer (TSO), inspired by the dynamic behaviour in the electrical circuits comprising storage elements such as capacitors and inductors during the switching actions. The system simulation is performed, and the STSMC proved overwhelming superiority over other controllers, as it deals better with the transient interval of the system response. Renewable Energy sources (RESs) like photovoltaic and wind energy systems are established, and the STSMC is tested with industrial and residential load models. Finally, energy storage devices such as batteries and superconducting magnetic energy storage are implemented to suppress the rapid fluctuations in the system response, and it succeeded in doing that as the system oscillations are greatly damped with the energy storage devices.
Resource allocation scheme of netted radar system for target localisation
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Tao Haihong
Published: July 2023

In order to enhance the resource utilisation of the netted radar system, a receiving resource allocation (RRA) strategy for target localisation is developed in this article. Receiving resource refers to the receiving node and the processing approach adopted. The aim of the proposed RAA strategy is to select the receiver node and corresponding processing approach to minimise the resource cost while satisfying the desired target localisation accuracies. The resource cost includes the implementation cost of the processing approaches and the distance cost of data transmission. The Cramer‐Rao bound (CRB) incorporating the above controllable parameters is derived and used as the target localisation performance metric in the netted radar system. Whereafter, the RRA problem is modelled as a non‐convex constrained optimisation problem with the discrete variables. A scheme based on the modified depth‐first search is proposed to solve this problem. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme can effectively reduce resource consumption under the desired target localisation performance constraints.
Estimating the number of planets that PLATO can detect
Authors: Matuszewski F. , Nettelmann N. , Cabrera J. , Börner A. , Rauer H.
Published: July 2023

Context. The PLATO mission is scheduled for launch in 2026. It will monitor more than 245 000 FGK stars of magnitude 13 or brighter for planet transit events. Among the key scientific goals are the detection of Earth-Sun analogs; the detailed characterization of stars and planets in terms of mass, radius, and ages; the detection of planetary systems with longer orbital periods than are detected in current surveys; and to advance our understanding of planet formation and evolution processes.

Aims. This study aims to estimate the number of exoplanets that PLATO can detect as a function of planetary size and period, stellar brightness, and observing strategy options. Deviations from these estimates will be informative of the true occurrence rates of planets, which helps constraining planet formation models.

Methods. For this purpose, we developed the Planet Yield for PLATO estimator (PYPE), which adopts a statistical approach. We apply given occurrence rates from planet formation models and from different search and vetting pipelines for the Kepler data. We estimate the stellar sample to be observed by PLATO using a fraction of the all-sky PLATO stellar input catalog (PIC). PLATO detection efficiencies are calculated under different assumptions that are presented in detail in the text.

Results. The results presented here primarily consider the current baseline observing duration of 4 yr. We find that the expected PLATO planet yield increases rapidly over the first year and begins to saturate after 2 yr. A nominal (2+2) 2-yr mission could yield about several thousand to several tens of thousands of planets, depending on the assumed planet occurrence rates. We estimate a minimum of 500 Earth-size (0.8−1.25 RE) planets, about a dozen of which would reside in a 250–500 days period bin around G stars. We find that one-third of the detected planets are around stars bright enough (V ≤11) for RV-follow-up observations. We find that a 3-yr-long observation followed by 6 two-month short observations (3+1 yr) yield roughly twice as many planets as two long observations of 2 yr (2+2 yr). The former strategy is dominated by short-period planets, while the latter is more beneficial for detecting earths in the habitable zone.

Conclusions. Of the many sources of uncertainties for the PLATO planet yield, the real occurrence rates matters most. Knowing the latter is crucial for using PLATO observations to constrain planet formation models by comparing their statistical yields.
Plant density influences yield, yield components, lint quality and seed oil content of cotton genotypes
Authors: Jalilian Sepideh , Madani Hamid , Vafaie-Tabar Mosareza , Sajedi Nour Ali
Published: July 2023

Choosing suitable varieties and manipulating plant population are crucial management aspects in any cropping system that goals to improve yield, quality and the balance between plant demand and environmental resource availability. A two-year field experiment was conducted at Tehran, Iran, in a split plot design and replicated thrice to examine the effect of the planting density (low, moderate and high) on ten cotton genotypes. In term of lint yield and among the cotton genotypes G8 (1269 kg · ha−1), G4 (1263 kg · ha−1), G1 (1239 kg · ha−1) and G2 (1123 kg · ha−1) were statistically at par with each other but significantly superior to G7 (914 kg · ha−1) and G9 (936 kg · ha−1). Lint yield in high plant density (1386 kg · ha−1) was found to be remarkably superior over medium and low plant density (1029 and 890 kg · ha−1, respectively) by average of 25.7% and 35.7%, respectively. Cotton genotypes at low plant density had higher boll plant−1 (6.46% and 15.3%, respectively), lint percentage (5.8% and 12%, respectively) and lint strength (0.6% and 1.9%, respectively) compared to moderate and high plant densities. The genotypes cultivated at high plant density produced higher seed and lint yield, higher lint elasticity and lower seed oil content, lint length and lint quality index. Based on this experiment, it is concluded that high seed cotton yield can be achieved at high plant density while higher lint quality can be yielded at low plant density.
La photonique en Île-de-France
Authors: Vinchant Jean-François , Palpant Bruno , Georges Patrick , Bucourt Samuel , Pluchery Olivier , Benkelfat Badr-Eddine , Simon-Boisson Christophe , Antoni Thomas , Abdeljalil Najwa
Published: July 2023

La Région Île-de-France est l’un des viviers de la photonique française et le plateau de Saclay en constitue l’un des berceaux. C’est dans cet écosystème vivifiant, que s’inscrit le Hub Optics & Photonics de Systematic Paris-Région, représentant à lui seul 216 entités, dont 111 PME, 7 ETI, 25 Grands Groupes, 54 Académiques et 19 autres institutions.
Sol’Ex et l’imagerie monochromatique solaire
Authors: Buil Christian , Malherbe Jean-Marie , Maksimovic Milan
Published: July 2023

Après une brève présentation des observations solaires réalisées depuis très longtemps à l’observatoire de Meudon et de leur enjeu, cet article décrit un modèle de spectrohéliographe extrêmement compact, capable de compléter la vaste collection de données historiques par des images actuelles, de haute valeur scientifique, ayant la caractéristique d’être acquises par un large public.
Delivery of chemotherapeutic drug targeting folate receptor to oral cancer cells using functionalized carbon nanospheres
Authors: Bhattacharya Dwaipayan , Sakhare Kalyani , Dhiman Chhavi , Ansari Aasia , Kundu Tapas Kumar , Narayan Kumar Pranav , Banerjee Rajkumar
Published: July 2023

Folate receptor (FR) (α) has long been the subject of active interest as regards its potential to serve as a target for cancer therapy. FR has been found to be overexpressed in several cancers, including clinical samples of different stages from OSCC (oral squamous cell carcinoma) patients. However, no clear correlation or conclusive finding has been obtained so far which might indicate the efficacy of FR as a credible target for the treatment of OSCC. All cell lines to be used were assessed for FR-expression. Subsequently, we developed glucose-derived carbon nanospheres (CSPs) and primed them with a Folate-based cationic lipid FA8 and the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX). CSP based delivery systems along with pristine drug DOX were characterized and treated subsequently to in vitro cultures of OSCC cells and assessed for cancer cell targetability as well as cell death. Subsequently, treatment was administered to immunocompetent C57 mice carrying MOC2 based syngeneic OSCC tumours and assessed for tumour regression and toxicity. Ligand primed targeted CSPs exhibited commendable drug uptake as well as efficient induction of cell death. Further, receptor blocking studies revealed FR-mediated uptake, preferentially in cancer cells. Drug once delivered by ligand-primed CSPs was retained longer inside cells than pristine drug alone, indicating possibilities of better therapeutic outcome. In animal studies, CSP-FA8-DOX (Ligand primed targeted CSP) demonstrated significant regression in tumour size compared to pristine DOX as well as CSP-DOX (non-targeted CSP) treated animals. FR-mediated system CFD demonstrated targeted drug uptake and apoptotic death selectively in cancer cells. Significant tumour regression was also observed in vivo. Overall, it may be presumed that the FR is a therapeutic target with substantial potential in OSCC treatment.
On classification of a 4D competitive LV system
Authors: Wu Wenxi , Jiang Jifa
Published: July 2023

This paper classifies the global dynamics of a 4D competitive Lotka-Volterra system (1.3) with two positive parameters

k
1

,
 

k
2

k_1,\ k_2

via carrying simplex. It is proved that the interior of the carrying simplex is filled with periodic orbits except equilibria and each interior trajectory is persistent and tends to either a periodic orbit or an equilibrium if

k
1

/

k
2

=
2

k_1/k_2=2

. Otherwise, the system admits two 2D carrying simplices

Δ
i

\Delta _i

on

x
1

=
i

x_1=i

for

i
=
0
,
 
1

i=0,\ 1

, which are filled with periodic orbits surrounding an equilibrium. All interior orbits go in the long run to

Δ
1

\Delta _1

if

k
1

/

k
2

>
2

k_1/k_2>2

. If

0
>

k
1

/

k
2

>
2

0>k_1/k_2>2

, then the system admits a bistable structure:

Δ
0

\Delta _0

and the equilibrium

R
1

(
1
+

k
2

/

k
1

,
 
0
,
 
0
,
 
0
)

R_1(1+k_2/k_1,\ 0,\ 0,\ 0)

are locally asymptotically stable, the attracting set of

Δ
1

\Delta _1

separates the attracting basins of

Δ
0

\Delta _0

and

R
1

R_1

.
Development of HPLC Method for Ixabepilone (Oncology Drug) in Bulk and Dosage Form: Quantification of Impurities and Forced Degradation Studies
Authors: Nekkalapudi Arjuna R , Navuluri Srinivasu , Pippalla Sreenivas , Katari Naresh K , Cholleti Vijay K , Bapatu Hanimi R
Published: July 2023

The objective of study is to develop a new stability-indicating HPLC method for quantifying ixabepilone degradation products and known process impurities (EPO-2 and Epothilone B) in bulk and injectable dose forms. A gradient stability-indicating RP-HPLC approach was developed to determine the known impurities of ixabepilone in ixabepilone API and ixabepilone for injection. Ixabepilone was subjected to base, acid, oxidation, photolytic and thermal degradations. The gradient approach was used to optimize the mobile phase-A [pH 4.8 acetate buffer (10 mM) and acetonitrile 90:10 v/v] and mobile phase-B [pH 4.8 acetate buffer (10 mM) and acetonitrile 20:80 v/v] of a USP L1 column. A wavelength of 250 nm was chosen based on known impurities and degradation products response, with a 1.0 mL/min flow rate. In compliance with ICH criteria Q2(R1), the developed technique was validated. The stability-indicating-related impurities technique was proven to be appropriate for estimating degrading impurities and known impurities in ixabepilone API and ixabepilone injection.
Hypothetical interventions and risk of atrial fibrillation by sex and education: application of the parametric g-formula in the Tromsø Study
Authors: Nilsen Linn , Sharashova Ekaterina , Løchen Maja-Lisa , Danaei Goodarz , Wilsgaard Tom
Published: July 2023

Aims

To use the parametric g-formula to estimate the long-term risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) by sex and education under hypothetical interventions on six modifiable risk factors.

Methods and results

We estimated the risk reduction under hypothetical risk reduction strategies for smoking, physical activity, alcohol intake, body mass index, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure in 14 923 women and men (baseline mean age 45.8 years in women and 47.8 years in men) from the population-based Tromsø Study with a maximum of 22 years of follow-up (1994–2016). The estimated risk of AF under no intervention was 6.15% in women and 13.0% in men. This cumulative risk was reduced by 41% (95% confidence interval 17%, 61%) in women and 14% (−7%, 30%) in men under joint interventions on all risk factors. The most effective intervention was lowering body mass index to ≤ 25 kg/m2, leading to a 16% (4%, 25%) lower risk in women and a 14% (6%, 23%) lower risk in men. We found significant sex-differences in the relative risk reduction by sufficient physical activity, leading to a 7% (-4%, 18%) lower risk in women and an 8% (−2%, −13%) increased risk in men. We found no association between the level of education and differences in risk reduction by any of the interventions.

Conclusion

The population burden of AF could be reduced by modifying lifestyle risk factors. Namely, these modifications could have prevented 41% of AF cases in women and 14% of AF cases in men in the municipality of Tromsø, Norway during a maximum 22-year follow-up period.
Association of a Blood-Based Aging Biomarker Index With Death and Chronic Disease: Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Sanders Jason L , Boudreau Robert M , Arnold Alice M , Justice Jamie N , Espeland Mark A , Kuchel George A , Barzilai Nir , Kuller Lewis H , Lopez Oscar L , Kritchevsky Stephen B , Newman Anne B
Published: July 2023

Background

A goal of gerontology is to discover phenotypes that reflect biological aging distinct from disease pathogenesis. Biomarkers that are strongly associated with mortality could be used to define such a phenotype. However, the relation of such an index with multiple chronic conditions warrants further exploration.

Methods

A biomarker index (BI) was constructed in the Cardiovascular Health Study (N = 3 197), with a mean age of 74 years. The BI incorporated circulating levels of new biomarkers, including insulin-like growth factor-1, interleukin-6, amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, cystatin-C, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha soluble receptor 1, fasting insulin, and fasting glucose, and was built based on their relationships with mortality. Cox proportional hazards models predicting a composite of death and chronic disease involving cardiovascular disease, dementia, and cancer were calculated with 6 years of follow-up.

Results

The hazard ratio (HR, 95% CI) for the composite outcome of death or chronic disease per category of BI was 1.65 (1.52, 1.80) and 1.75 (1.58, 1.94) in women and men, respectively. The HR (95% CI) per 5 years of age was 1.57 (1.48, 1.67) and 1.55 (1.44, 1.67) in women and men, respectively. Moreover, BI could attenuate the effect of age on the composite outcome by 16.7% and 22.0% in women and men, respectively.

Conclusions

Biomarker index was significantly and independently associated with a composite outcome of death and chronic disease, and attenuated the effect of age. The BI that is composed of plasma biomarkers may be a practical intermediate phenotype for interventions aiming to modify the course of aging.
Temperature-dependent development of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) at constant temperatures: instar pathways and stage transition models with semifield validation
Authors: Jung Jin Kyo , Kim Su Bin , Seo Bo Yoon , Kim Jiwon , Kim Dong-Soon
Published: July 2023

Temperature-dependent development of Helicoverpa armigera (Hüber) fed with an artificial diet was studied at different temperatures. The instar pathway (IPW) defined as the number of instars prior to pupation significantly affected larval development time, with higher IPW leading to longer larval development time. The IPW was determined at the fifth instar to proceed to 6–7 IPW, when the development time of fifth instar was largely shortened. Accordingly, the development time after the fourth instar was combined (i.e., the fifth–seventh instar) as a single stage to simplify the various IPW and applied to develop phenology models. In linear models, the lower threshold temperature (LT) and thermal constant (degree-days, DD) for each stage were estimated. DD based on the common LT of 10.7 °C were 43, 287, and 191 DD for eggs, larvae, and pupae, respectively. DD model (253.6 DD with LT 10.3 °C for larvae and 181.5 DD with 11.6 °C for pupae) showed good performance in predicting the 50% occurrences of pupae and adults. In nonlinear models, stage transition (ST) models were constructed using the development rate and distribution models to simulate the proportion of individuals shifted from one stage to the next stage. The ST model showed good performance, indicating an average discrepancy of 1.74 days at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 90% adult emergence. Our models developed here will be useful to predict the phenology of H. armigera in the field and to construct a deterministic population model in the future.
Engineered biomaterials in stem cell-based regenerative medicine
Authors: Zhu Fei , Nie Guangjun , Liu Changsheng
Published: July 2023

Stem cell-based regenerative therapies, which harness the self-renewal and differentiation properties of stem cells, have been in the spotlight due to their widespread applications in treating degenerative, aging, and other, generally intractable diseases. Therapeutically effective hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells have been used in numerous basic and translational studies with exciting results. However, pre-/post-transplantation issues of poor cell survival and retention, uncontrolled differentiation, and insufficient numbers of cells engrafted into host tissues are the major challenges in stem cell-based regenerative therapies. Engineered biomaterials have adjustable biochemical and biophysical properties that significantly affect cell behaviors, such as cell engraftment, survival, migration, and differentiation outcomes, thereby enhancing the engraftment of implanted stem cells and guiding tissue regeneration. Therefore, the combination of stem cell biology with bioengineered materials is a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic outcomes of stem cell-based regenerative therapy. In this review, we summarize the advances in the modulation of behaviors of stem cells via engineered biomaterials. We then present different approaches to harnessing bioengineered materials to enhance the transplantation of stem cells. Finally, we will provide future directions in regenerative therapy using stem cells.
Microalgae–material hybrid for enhanced photosynthetic energy conversion: a promising path towards carbon neutrality
Authors: Xiong Wei , Peng Yiyan , Ma Weimin , Xu Xurong , Zhao Yueqi , Wu Jinhui , Tang Ruikang
Published: July 2023

Photosynthetic energy conversion for high-energy chemicals generation is one of the most viable solutions in the quest for sustainable energy towards carbon neutrality. Microalgae are fascinating photosynthetic organisms, which can directly convert solar energy into chemical energy and electrical energy. However, microalgal photosynthetic energy has not yet been applied on a large scale due to the limitation of their own characteristics. Researchers have been inspired to couple microalgae with synthetic materials via biomimetic assembly and the resulting microalgae–material hybrids have become more robust and even perform new functions. In the past decade, great progress has been made in microalgae–material hybrids, such as photosynthetic carbon dioxide fixation, photosynthetic hydrogen production, photoelectrochemical energy conversion and even biochemical energy conversion for biomedical therapy. The microalgae–material hybrid offers opportunities to promote artificially enhanced photosynthesis research and synchronously inspires investigation of biotic–abiotic interface manipulation. This review summarizes current construction methods of microalgae–material hybrids and highlights their implication in energy and health. Moreover, we discuss the current problems and future challenges for microalgae–material hybrids and the outlook for their development and applications. This review will provide inspiration for the rational design of the microalgae-based semi-natural biohybrid and further promote the disciplinary fusion of material science and biological science.
Topical coapplication of hyaluronan with transdermal drug delivery enhancers attenuates inflammatory and neuropathic pain
Authors: Bonet Ivan J.M. , Araldi Dionéia , Green Paul G. , Levine Jon D.
Published: July 2023

We have previously shown that intradermal injection of high-molecular-weight hyaluronan (500-1200 kDa) produces localized antihyperalgesia in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. In the present experiments, we studied the therapeutic effect of topical hyaluronan, when combined with each of 3 transdermal drug delivery enhancers (dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO], protamine or terpene), in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Topical application of 500 to 1200 kDa hyaluronan (the molecular weight range used in our previous studies employing intradermal administration), dissolved in 75% DMSO in saline, markedly reduced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) hyperalgesia, in male and female rats. Although topical 500- to 1200-kDa hyaluronan in DMSO vehicle dose dependently, also markedly, attenuated oxaliplatin chemotherapy–and paclitaxel chemotherapy–induced painful peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in male rats, it lacked efficacy in female rats. However, following ovariectomy or intrathecal administration of an oligodeoxynucleotide antisense to G-protein–coupled estrogen receptor (GPR30) mRNA, CIPN in female rats was now attenuated by topical hyaluronan. Although topical coadministration of 150 to 300, 300 to 500, or 1500 to 1750 kDa hyaluronan with DMSO also attenuated CIPN, a slightly lower-molecular-weight hyaluronan (70-120 kDa) did not. The topical administration of a combination of hyaluronan with 2 other transdermal drug delivery enhancers, protamine and terpene, also attenuated CIPN hyperalgesia, an effect that was more prolonged than with DMSO vehicle. Repeated administration of topical hyaluronan prolonged the duration of antihyperalgesia. Our results support the use of topical hyaluronan, combined with chemically diverse nontoxic skin penetration enhancers, to induce marked antihyperalgesia in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
Comparing Expectations: How Pharmacy Students View Physician Assistant and Medical Students
Authors: Hong Lisa , Milliron Mark , Thorpe Donna , Vyhmeister Kirsten
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The aim of this prospective, perception scale study was to evaluate pharmacy student expectations and perceptions of student medical providers before and after interprofessional education (IPE).

Methods

Using pre- and postactivity surveys, the expectations and perceptions of 2 cohorts of third-year pharmacy students who worked with first-year physician assistant (PA) students and second-year medical (MD) students in an evidence-based, case-based IPE session were compared.

Results

Before engaging in the interprofessional activities, the pharmacy students' (N = 131) expectations were either similar for both student provider groups or greater for MD students. However, these expectations differed significantly from postactivity perceptions. After completion of the IPE experiences, when compared with MD students, PA students were perceived as having equal or greater knowledge of patient care (60.2 vs. 12%, P < .001), demonstrating equal or superior application of evidence-based practice (46.6 vs. 5.3%, P < .001), being equally or more collaborative (54.1 vs. 10.5%, P < .001), and being equally easy or easier to work with (69.9 vs. 10.5%, P < .001).

Conclusion

The magnitude of shift in expectations and perceptions demonstrates the value of IPE and underscores the high caliber of PA educational standards.
Reinfection incidence and risk among people treated for recent hepatitis C virus infection: the react study
Authors: Martinello Marianne , Carson Joanne M. , Van Der Valk Marc , Rockstroh Jürgen K. , Ingiliz Patrick , Hellard Margaret , Nelson Mark , Lutz Thomas , Bhagani Sanjay , Kim Arthur Y. , Hull Mark , Cordes Christiane , Moon Juhi , Feld Jordan J. , Gane Ed , Rauch Andri , Bruneau Julie , Tu Elise , Applegate Tanya , Grebely Jason , Dore Gregory J. , Matthews Gail V.
Published: July 2023

Objective:

Reinfection poses a challenge to HCV elimination. This analysis assessed incidence of, and factors associated with reinfection among people treated for recent HCV (duration of infection <12 months).

Methods:

Participants treated for recent HCV (primary infection or reinfection) in an international randomised trial were followed at three-monthly intervals for up to two years to assess for reinfection. Reinfection incidence was calculated using person-time of observation. Factors associated with HCV reinfection were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

Results:

Of 222 participants treated for recent HCV, 196 (62% primary infection, 38% reinfection) were included in the cohort at risk for reinfection, of whom 87% identified as gay or bisexual men, 71% had HIV, and 20% injected drugs in the month prior to enrolment. During 198 person-years of follow-up, 28 cases of HCV reinfection were identified among 27 participants, for an incidence of 14.2 per 100 person-years (95%CI 9.8, 20.5). Reinfection was associated with prior HCV reinfection (aHR 2.42; 95%CI 1.08, 5.38), injection drug use post-treatment (aHR 2.53; 95%CI 1.14, 5.59), condomless anal intercourse with casual male partners (aHR 3.32; 95%CI 1.14, 9.65) and geographic region (United Kingdom, aHR 0·21; 95% CI 0.06, 0.75). Among gay and bisexual men, reinfection was also associated with sexualised drug use involving injecting post-treatment (aHR 2.97; 95%CI 1.10, 8.02).

Conclusion:

High reinfection incidence following treatment for recent HCV among people with ongoing sexual and drug use risk behaviour highlights the need for post-treatment surveillance, rapid retreatment of reinfection, and targeted harm reduction strategies.

Clinical trial registration:

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02625909

Funding:

National Institutes of Health (R01DA040506). Study medication - Gilead Sciences Inc.
Differences in epigenetic age by HIV status among patients with a non-AIDS defining cancer
Authors: Dickey Brittney L. , Putney Ryan M. , Suneja Gita , Kresovich Jacob K. , Spivak Adam M. , Patel Ami B. , Teng Mingxiang , Extermann Martine , Giuliano Anna R. , Gillis Nancy , Berglund Anders , Coghill Anna E.
Published: July 2023

Objective:

People with HIV (PHIV) are living longer and experiencing non-AIDS defining cancers (NADC). Epigenetic aging biomarkers have been linked to cancer risk, and cancer is now a leading cause of death in PHIV, but these biomarkers have not been investigated in PHIV and cancer.

Design:

In order to compare epigenetic age by HIV status, HIV-uninfected participants were matched to PHIV by reported age, tumor site, tumor sequence number, and treatment status.

Methods:

DNA from blood was assayed using Illumina MethylationEPIC BeadChip and estimated immune cell composition and three epigenetic clocks: Horvath, GrimAge, and epiTOC2. Age acceleration by clock was computed as the residual from the expected value, calculated using linear regression, for each study participant. Comparisons across HIV status used the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the association between age acceleration and survival in PHIV were estimated with Cox regression.

Results:

Among 65 NADC participants with HIV and 64 without, biological age from epiTOC2 (p < 0.0001) and GrimAge (p = 0.017) was significantly higher in PHIV. Biological age acceleration was significantly higher in PHIV using epiTOC2 (p < 0.01) and GrimAge (p < 0.0001), with the difference in the GrimAge remaining statistically significant after adjustment for immune cell composition. Among PHIV, GrimAge acceleration was significantly associated with increased risk of death (HR: 1.11; 95% CI:1.04–1.18).

Conclusions:

We observed a higher epigenetic age in PHIV with a NADC diagnosis compared to their HIV-uninfected counterparts, as well as a significant association between this accelerated biological aging and survival for patients diagnosed with a NADC.
The incidence and dynamic risk factors of chronic kidney disease among people living with HIV – A population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Gao Haoyuan , Zhang Jiajia , Yang Xueying , Chen Shujie , Mathew Roy , Weissman Sharon , Olatosi Bankole , Li Xiaoming
Published: July 2023

Objectives:

We investigate the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among people living with HIV (PLWH) and the dynamic risk factors associated with CKD incidence.

Design:

A population-based cohort study of PLWH in South Carolina.

Methods:

Adults (age ≥18yrs) PLWH diagnosed between 2006 and 2019 who were CKD-free at baseline were included. The associations of HIV-related risk factors and conventional risk factors with the incidence of CKD were investigated during the overall study period and by different follow-up periods (i.e., 5-, 10-, and 15-years) by multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

Among 9,514 PLWH, the incidence of CKD was 12.39 per 1000 person-years. The overall model indicated that conventional risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes were significantly associated with higher risk of developing CKD. HIV-related characteristics, such as high percent of days with viral suppression, recent CD4 count, and percent of retention in care, were associated with a lower risk of CKD compared to their counterparts. In the subgroup analysis, the results were similar for the 5-year and 6–10 years follow-up groups. Among patients who did not develop CKD by the 10th year, the risk factors for developing CKD within 11–15 years were dyslipidemia, diabetes, low recent CD4 count, and short duration of retention in care while other predictors vanished.

Conclusions:

Diabetes, CD4 count, and retention in care were persistently associated with CKD despite of follow-up duration. Closely monitoring diabetes and improving CD4 count and retention in care are important to lower the risk of CKD in PLWH.