bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated improved Harris hawks optimization for global and engineering optimization
Authors: Ouyang Chengtian , Liao Chang , Zhu Donglin , Zheng Yangyang , Zhou Changjun , Li Taiyong
Published: March 2024

The original Harris hawks optimization (HHO) algorithm has the problems of unstable optimization effect and easy to fall into stagnation. However, most of the improved HHO algorithms can not effectively improve the ability of the algorithm to jump out of the local optimum. In this regard, an integrated improved HHO (IIHHO) algorithm is proposed. Firstly, the linear transformation escape energy used by the original HHO algorithm is relatively simple and lacks the escape law of the prey in the actual nature. Therefore, intermittent energy regulator is introduced to adjust the energy of Harris hawks, which is conducive to improving the local search ability of the algorithm while restoring the prey's rest mechanism; Secondly, to adjust the uncertainty of random vector, a more regular vector change mechanism is used instead, and the attenuation vector is obtained by modifying the composite function. Finally, the search scope of Levy flight is further clarified, which is conducive to the algorithm jumping out of the local optimum. Finally, in order to modify the calculation limitations caused by the fixed step size, Cardano formula function is introduced to adjust the step size setting and improve the accuracy of the algorithm. First, the performance of IIHHO algorithm is analyzed on the Computational Experimental Competition 2013 (CEC 2013) function test set and compared with seven improved evolutionary algorithms, and the convergence value of the iterative curve obtained is better than most of the improved algorithms, verifying the effectiveness of the proposed IIHHO algorithm. Second, the IIHHO is compared with another three state of the art (SOTA) algorithms with the Computational Experimental Competition 2022 (CEC 2022) function test set, the experiments show that the proposed IIHHO algorithm still has a strong ability to search for the optimal value. Third, IIHHO algorithm is applied in two different engineering experiments. The calculation results of minimum cost prove that IIHHO algorithm has certain advantages in dealing with the problem of search space. All these demonstrate that the proposed IIHHO is promising for numeric optimization and engineering applications.
Study on numerical simulation and mechanical properties of anchor cable with C-shaped tube subjected to shearing
Authors: Shan Renliang , Xiao Shengchao , Li Yongzhen , Zhao Xinpeng , Han Tianyu , Zhang Shupeng
Published: March 2024

To examine the disparity in deformation behavior and mechanical qualities between anchor cables with C-shaped tubes and regular anchor cables under shear conditions. The double-sided shear tests of free-section anchor cables and anchor cables with C-shaped tubes were conducted utilizing the indoor large-scale double-shear test equipment with varying pretension loads. The indoor double-shear tests indicate that the inclusion of the C-shaped tube alters the stress distribution of the anchor cables inside the anchor cables with C-shaped tubes and mitigates the impact of stress concentration. Moreover, it facilitates the transition of the anchor cable's failure mode from a mix of tensile and shear breaking to mainly tensile breakage. In addition, ABAQUS finite element analysis software was used to establish a double shear test model of the anchor cable with C-shaped tube to accurately simulate the interaction and stress distribution among the anchor cable, C-shaped tube, and concrete block in the double shear test. The findings of the simulation results reveal that the numerical model can adequately depict the evolution of the stress distribution in the prestressed anchored structure and the damage of the concrete block with increasing shear displacement. The relational equation for the yield state of the anchor cable with C-shaped tube under combined tensile and shear loads is found by integrating the experimental and simulation data, the static beam theory, and the concept of minimal potential energy.
CRISPR/Cas9 targeting of passenger single nucleotide variants in haploinsufficient or essential genes expands cancer therapy prospects
Authors: Kim Hakhyun , Han Jang Hee , Kim Hyosil , Kim Minjee , Jo Seung-il , Lee NaKyoung , Cha Seungbin , Oh Myung Joon , Choi GaWon , Kim Hyun Seok
Published: March 2024

CRISPR/Cas9 technology has effectively targeted cancer-specific oncogenic hotspot mutations or insertion–deletions. However, their limited prevalence in tumors restricts their application. We propose a novel approach targeting passenger single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in haploinsufficient or essential genes to broaden therapeutic options. By disrupting haploinsufficient or essential genes through the cleavage of DNA in the SNV region using CRISPR/Cas9, we achieved the selective elimination of cancer cells without affecting normal cells. We found that, on average, 44.8% of solid cancer patients are eligible for our approach, a substantial increase compared to the 14.4% of patients with CRISPR/Cas9-applicable oncogenic hotspot mutations. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, we validated our strategy by targeting a passenger mutation in the essential ribosomal gene RRP9 and haploinsufficient gene SMG6. This demonstrates the potential of our strategy to selectively eliminate cancer cells and expand therapeutic opportunities.
A partial oxidation-based approach to the synthesis of gold-magnetite hybrid nanostructures
Authors: Ochea Rocío A. González , Benzaquén Tamara B. , Encina Ezequiel R.
Published: March 2024

Hybrid nanostructures composed of gold and magnetite are of singular interest because they allow the integration of plasmonic and magnetic properties in a single object. Due to this feature, their application has been proposed to perform various functions. The methods usually employed to prepare these particular kinds of nanostructures follow organic phase routes, whereas synthetic methodologies that employ more sustainable solvents have been much less explored. In this work, an environmentally friendly approach for the synthesis of gold-magnetite hybrid nanostructures in aqueous media is proposed. This approach relies on the partial oxidation of the Fe(II) precursor using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidizing agent in the presence of preformed gold nanoparticles dispersed in the reaction medium. The methodology used led to the formation of magnetite nanoparticles with a good stoichiometry and a median size of 30 nm. Furthermore, in the presence of gold nanoparticles in the reaction medium, the formation of gold-magnetite hybrid nanostructures is produced as a consequence of the heterogeneous nucleation of the iron oxide phase on the surface of the gold nanoparticles that act as seeds. The approach reported broadens the possibility of synthesizing hybrid nanostructures in aqueous media with integrated plasmonic and magnetic properties.
Plasma Epstein-Barr virus microRNA BART8-3p as a potential biomarker for detection and prognostic prediction in early nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Lin Cheng , Chen Yuebing , Lin Xiandong , Peng Hewei , Huang Juan , Lin Shaojun , Pan Jianji , Li Meifang , Zong Jingfeng
Published: March 2024

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) encoded microRNA BART8-3p (miR-BART8-3p) was significantly associated with the metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). To explore the clinical values of plasma miR-BART8-3p in patients with early NPC. We retrospectively analyzed 126 patients with stage I and II NPC. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to examine the diagnostic performance. Kaplan‒Meier analysis was applied to determine survival differences. Cox regression was used for univariate and multivariate analyses. Compared to healthy subjects, plasma EBV miR-BART8-3p was highly expressed in early NPC patients. The sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve value of plasma miR-BART8-3p combined with plasma EBV DNA was up to 88.9%, 94.4%, and 0.931. Compared to patients with low expression of miR-BART8-3p, patients with high expression of miR-BART8-3p had poorer 5-year overall survival (OS) (98.9% vs. 91.1%, P = 0.025), locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRRFS) (100% vs. 83.9%, P < 0.001) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) (98.9% vs. 88.0%, P = 0.006). Risk stratification analysis revealed that high-risk patients (with high levels of EBV DNA and miR-BART8-3p) had inferior OS, LRRFS, and DMFS than low-risk patients (without high levels of EBV DNA and miR-BART8-3p). Multivariate analysis verified that the high-risk group was an unfavorable factor for OS, LRRFS, and DMFS. A combination of plasma EBV miR-BART8-3p and EBV DNA could be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis in early NPC.
Spatiotemporal link between El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), extreme heat, and thermal stress in the Asia–Pacific region
Authors: Eggeling Jakob , Gao Chuansi , An Dong , Cruz-Cano Raul , He Hao , Zhang Linus , Wang Yu-Chun , Sapkota Amir
Published: March 2024

Climate change is closely monitored and numerous studies reports increasing air temperature and weather extremes across the globe. As a direct consequence of the increase of global temperature, the increased heat stress is becoming a global threat to public health. While most climate change and epidemiological studies focus on air temperature to explain the increasing risks, heat strain can be predicted using comprehensive indices such as Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). The Asia–Pacific region is prone to thermal stress and the high population densities in the region impose high health risk. This study evaluated the air temperature and UTCI trends between 1990 and 2019 and found significant increasing trends for air temperature for the whole region while the increases of UTCI are not as pronounced and mainly found in the northern part of the region. These results indicate that even though air temperature is increasing, the risks of heat stress when assessed using UTCI may be alleviated by other factors. The associations between El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and heat stress was evaluated on a seasonal level and the strongest regional responses were found during December-January (DJF) and March–May (MAM).
Collective intelligence: A unifying concept for integrating biology across scales and substrates
Authors: McMillen Patrick , Levin Michael
Published: March 2024

A defining feature of biology is the use of a multiscale architecture, ranging from molecular networks to cells, tissues, organs, whole bodies, and swarms. Crucially however, biology is not only nested structurally, but also functionally: each level is able to solve problems in distinct problem spaces, such as physiological, morphological, and behavioral state space. Percolating adaptive functionality from one level of competent subunits to a higher functional level of organization requires collective dynamics: multiple components must work together to achieve specific outcomes. Here we overview a number of biological examples at different scales which highlight the ability of cellular material to make decisions that implement cooperation toward specific homeodynamic endpoints, and implement collective intelligence by solving problems at the cell, tissue, and whole-organism levels. We explore the hypothesis that collective intelligence is not only the province of groups of animals, and that an important symmetry exists between the behavioral science of swarms and the competencies of cells and other biological systems at different scales. We then briefly outline the implications of this approach, and the possible impact of tools from the field of diverse intelligence for regenerative medicine and synthetic bioengineering.
Nickel-catalyzed tandem conversion of paraformaldehyde : methanol to hydrogen and formate/chemo- and stereoselective hydrogenation of alkynes under neutral conditions
Authors: Subaramanian Murugan , Padhy Subarna Sukanya , Gouda Chandrakanth , Das Tamal , Vanka Kumar , Balaraman Ekambaram
Published: March 2024

A tandem dihydrogen generation from a mixture of paraformaldehyde–methanol under base-free conditions followed by semihydrogenation of alkynes is reported.
In situ growth of NiSe2 nanoparticles on g-C3N4 nanosheets for an efficient hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Khaladkar Somnath R. , Maurya Oshnik , Gund Girish , Sinha Bhavesh , Kamble Girish , Kim Jin Hyeok , Deshmukh R. R. , Kalekar Archana
Published: March 2024

NiSe2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite catalyst exhibits superior hydrogen evolution performance, offering a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to noble metal-based catalysts for hydrogen production.
Electrocatalytic synthesis of hydrogen peroxide based on multi-doped carbon-based nanocatalyst
Authors: Hu Peng , Zhang Qijing , Lu Xiaodong , Zuo Zihao
Published: March 2024

In this study, a nickel, nitrogen and oxygen co-doped nanocatalyst (Ni–N/Cox) was prepared and the catalyst exhibited excellent 2e− ORR activity under alkaline condition with a remarkable selectivity for hydrogen peroxide of up to 96%.
Phosphate-binding protein-loaded iron oxide particles: adsorption performance for phosphorus removal and recovery from water
Authors: Hussein Faten B. , Cannon Andrew H. , Hutchison Justin M. , Gorman Christopher B. , Yingling Yaroslava G. , Mayer Brooke K.
Published: March 2024

Adsorbents featuring high-affinity phosphate-binding proteins (PBPs) have demonstrated highly selective and rapid phosphorus removal and recovery.
Ultrathin nanoporous metallic films and their integration in sensors
Authors: Kwon Hyunah , Alarcón-Correa Mariana , Schärf Izar , Fischer Peer
Published: March 2024

Ultrathin nanoporous films from metals and catalysts, such as Pt, are fabricated with a dry synthesis method and transferred onto substrates, including gas sensors, which significantly improves the sensor performance.
Machine learning modelling and optimization for metal hydride hydrogen storage systems
Authors: Kumar Abhijit , Tiwari Saurabh , Gupta Nandlal , Sharma Pratibha
Published: March 2024

Use of machine learning models for solid state hydrogen storage reactor development.
A facile strategy of “laser-direct-writing” to develop self-supported Ni30B70–Ti catalysts for boosted and durable alkaline oxygen evolution
Authors: Gao Yiming , Zhu Shengli , Cui Zhenduo , Li Zhaoyang , Wu Shuilin , Gao Zhonghui , Xu Wence , Guo Meiqing , Liang Yanqin , Jiang Hui
Published: March 2024

A Ni30B70–Ti catalyst for seawater splitting was designed via ball milling and laser direct writing technology. The OER overpotential of Ni30B70–Ti was 370 mV at a current density of 50 mA cm−2, 260 mV lower than that of the commercial Ni mesh.
Mussel-mimetic thermal conductive films with solid–solid phase change and shape-adaptive performance
Authors: Li Donglei , Ding Canxia , Shen Sicong , Wang Jun , Wu Limin , You Bo , Tao Guibao
Published: March 2024

Inspired by mussel structure, a novel thermally conductive phase change film is made using hot pressing, layer-by-layer stacking, cutting, and splicing. It has high thermal conductivity, low thermal resistance, high latent heat, and electrical insulation, suitable as a thermal interface material.
Study on the Profile of Noni (Morinda sp.) Leaves as an Ingredient in Herbal Drinks
Authors: Budianta Tarsisius Dwi Wibawa , Widyawati Paini Sri , Raharjo Sentot Joko
Published: March 2024

Two typical noni trees grow in locations close to each other in Keputih Permai, Surabaya City, and have certain characteristics that can be investigated further. From phytochemical testing of the leaves of both types of plants, the results showed that both gave positive values to be declared as plants containing antioxidant compounds. The antioxidant compound content of noni leaves was then compared with dry green tea from the local market. The design was completely randomized design, with 3 levels of treatment factors based on the type of ingredients used, namely green tea, narrow-leaf noni (Morinda officinalis), and wide-leaf noni (Morinda elliptica). From the experimental results, it is known that the total phenol, total flavonoids, the ability to counteract DPPH, and the ability to reduce iron ions of green tea are higher than Morinda sp. Whereas when compared between each type of Morinda, it is known that M. officinalis is superior to M. elliptica with total phenol 73.37± 1.87 mgGAE/Kg extract, total flavonoids 0.92± 0.1 mgEQ/L extract, DPPH free radical scavenging ability 228.58± 2.19 mgGAE/L extract, and iron ion reducing ability 815.17± 16.85 mgGAE/L extract. Noni leaves can be used as a promising herbal drink ingredient.
Sustainability of Food Systems: The Role of Food Technology and Regulatory Science
Authors: Hariyadi Purwiyatno
Published: March 2024

Food systems encompass complex and interconnected networks involved in the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of food. Currently, the food system confronts significant challenges related to the environment, society, and economy. A 2023 joint report by FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO underscored the major obstacles impeding the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the food system. The report emphasized the challenges associated with meeting the needs of the growing global population. These challenges, particularly in addressing hunger, are exacerbated by rapid population growth, resource scarcity, climate change, the impact of COVID-19, and conflicts. Recognizing the imperative need to transform the food system towards sustainability to fulfil the dietary demands of the expanding global population, the pivotal roles of food technology and regulatory science in addressing these challenges were highlighted. It’s essential to prioritize the development and promotion of food technology innovations, especially for microand small-scale food producers, to enhance the safety, quality, nutritional value, shelf life, functionality, accessibility, affordability, diversity, and appeal of food, thus promoting healthier dietary practices. Moreover, the crucial role of regulatory science was emphasized, specifically in formulating and enforcing regulatory and policy frameworks conducive to fostering innovation and ensuring alignment of the food industry with the SDGs. Both food technology and regulatory science are indispensable components in facilitating the transformation towards a sustainable food system.
Optimization Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) of NaCl, NaOH, and Activated Charcoal Concentration for the Purification Process of Crude Oil of Common Ponyfish
Authors: Rukmana Jaka , Hariyadi Purwiyatno , Purnomo Eko Hari , Faridah Didah Nur , Darniadi Sandi
Published: March 2024

Crude oil of common ponyfish (Leiognathus equulus) is a by-product of fish protein hydrolysate manufacturing at PT. Berikan Teknologi Indonesia. The quality of the crude fish oil produced falls below the International Fishmeal and Oil Manufacturers Association Standard. Therefore, to improve its quality, a purification process comprising of three stages was employed, degumming with NaCl (5-10%), neutralization with NaOH (10-18°Be), and bleaching with activated charcoal (6-10%). The purification process was optimized using RSM with the Box-Behnken Design. The 15 concentration formulations were obtained with response variables taken based on chemical test parameters (free fatty acids (FFA), acid value, peroxide value, and iodine value). The optimal point of NaCl, NaOH, and activated charcoal concentration was determined at 10%, 18°Be, and 9.4%, respectively with a desirability of 0.744. The purified common ponyfish oil exhibited FFA at 9.52±0.21%, acid value at 3.42±0.17 mg KOH/g, peroxide value at 1.25±0.03 mEq/Kg, and iodine value at 4.12±0.13 mEq/Kg. Pure common ponyfish oil resulting from the optimal conditions has been verified. All parameters indicate that the quality of common ponyfish oil is improved by the refining process. This indicates that the optimized process may be applied in real production in the field with a high degree of confidence.
Effect of Maltodextrin and Egg White Powder on Physical Characteristics of Sorghum Powdered Drink
Authors: Romulo Andreas , Audrey Aurellia Crezentia
Published: March 2024

Sorghum, a cereal plant variety, is cultivated in Indonesia as a promising food alternative with notable nutritional and bioactive properties. It presents opportunities for innovative food products like powdered beverages. To make sorghum powdered beverages, adding filler (maltodextrin) and foaming agent (egg white powder) is an essential factor that may impact the physical characteristics of the final products. This study aimed to explore how varying concentrations of maltodextrin and egg white powder affect the physical attributes of sorghum powder beverages. Maltodextrin (10%, 20%, 30%) and egg white powder (4%, 4.5%, 5%) were the independent variables examined. The analysis encompassed solubility, bulk density, foam stability, foam density, and drying rate. Findings indicated that incorporating maltodextrin and egg white flour increased foam density (0.69 g/mL) and stability (94%). Higher maltodextrin concentration enhanced beverage solubility, while bulk density remained relatively unaffected (0.79 to 0.87 g/mL). Notably, the blend with 30% maltodextrin and 4.5% egg white powder exhibited the swiftest drying rate (0.0456 g water/g dry solid min). These outcomes provide a foundation for advancing sorghum-based powdered beverages.
Observing galaxy clusters and the cosmic web through the Sunyaev Zel’dovich effect with MISTRAL
Authors: Battistelli E.S. , Barbavara E. , de Bernardis P. , Cacciotti F. , Capalbo V. , Carbone A. , Carretti E. , Ciccalotti D. , Columbro F. , Coppolecchia A. , Cruciani A. , D’Alessandro G. , De Petris M. , Govoni F. , Isopi G. , Lamagna L. , Levati E. , Marongiu P. , Mascia A. , Masi S. , Molinari E. , Murgia M. , Navarrini A. , Novelli A. , Occhiuzzi A. , Orlati A. , Pappalardo E. , Paiella A. , Pettinari G. , Piacentini F. , Pisanu T. , Poppi S. , Porceddu I. , Ritacco A. , Schirru M.R. , Vargiu G.P.
Published: March 2024

Galaxy clusters and surrounding medium, can be studied using X-ray bremsstrahlung emission and Sunyaev Zel’dovich (SZ) effect. Both astrophysical probes, sample the same environment with different parameters dependance. The SZ effect is relatively more sensitive in low density environments and thus is useful to study the filamentary structures of the cosmic web. In addition, observations of the matter distribution require high angular resolution in order to be able to map the matter distribution within and around galaxy clusters. MISTRAL is a camera working at 90GHz which, once coupled to the Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT), can reach 12″ angular resolution over 4′ field of view (f.o.v.). The forecasted sensitivity drives to a Noise Equivalent Flux Density of ≃ 10–15 mJy √s and the mapping speed is MS = 380′2 mJy−2 h−1. MISTRAL was recently installed at the focus of the SRT and soon will take its first photons.
Temperature measurements with the relativistic Sunyaev-Zel’dovich effect
Authors: Perrott Y.
Published: March 2024

At temperatures above ∼5 keV, the non-relativistic approximation used to derive the classical thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich effect spectrum begins to fail. When relativistic effects are included, the spectrum becomes temperature-dependent. This leads to both a problem and an opportunity: a problem, because when the temperature dependence is not accounted for the Compton-y estimate is biased; and an opportunity, because it represents a new way to measure the temperature of the intracluster medium independently of X-ray observations. This work presents current results from investigating the impact of relativistic effects on Planck cluster observations, and projections for future measurements of cluster temperatures using the Atacama Large Aperture Sub-millimetre Telescope.
Towards precision SZ cluster cosmology: From Planck to the Simons Observatory
Authors: Zubeldia Í.
Published: March 2024

As demonstrated by Planck, SPT, and ACT, the abundance of Sunyaev-Zeldovich-detected galaxy clusters across mass and redshift is a powerful cosmological probe. Upcoming experiments such as the Simons Observatory (SO) will detect over an order of magnitude more objects than what previous experiments have found, thereby providing an unprecedented constraining potential. However, in order for this potential to be realised, the cluster detection and analysis pipelines will have to be built and understood to a much higher level of accuracy than has been demonstrated to date.

Here we discuss ongoing efforts towards the accurate modelling of tSZ cluster counts, focusing on the improvements regarding optimisation bias, covariance estimation, and foreground deprojection of [11, 13, 15], which are implemented in the publicly-available SZiFi package. Next, we briefly discuss the application of these improved cluster detection methods to Planck data. Finally, we introduce cosmocnc, a new cluster number count likelihood code that will be publicly available soon.
Anti-corrosion application of parylene C film for stainless steel fasteners in electroplating industry
Authors: Chung Chien-Hao , Kuo Wen-Cheng
Published: March 2024

Parylene C film was investigated for extending the service life of fasteners used in electroplating. A 10-μm-thick parylene C coating was applied to a 304 stainless steel surface through chemical vapor deposition, and an accelerated lifetime aging test was conducted by immersing the test pieces in a 60 °C copper sulfate solution. Electrochemical analysis was performed to evaluate the penetration of the film by the solution. Based on the experimental data, it was determined that the solution penetrated the metal surface between days 66 and 73, with a conservative estimate of 66 days as the benchmark for film failure. Following the 10° rule in ASTM F1980, this is equivalent to a film life of 2.04 years at room temperature (25 °C). Hence, a parylene C coating can effectively protect a substrate from corrosion in a copper sulfate solution and could extend the lifetime of fasteners used in electroplating.
Global back—Stepping adaptive sliding mode control of naval gun servo system with backlash
Authors: Jiang Shang , Sun Dongyan , Liu Yan , Yang Yue , Wu Xiaolong , Wang Yuxin
Published: March 2024

A compensation approach for global back-stepping adaptive sliding mode control to deal with the nonlinear backlash in naval gun servo systems has been proposed in this paper. First, by introducing an approximate dead-zone model into the double inertia system and considering the nonlinear disturbances during the firing at level 5 sea conditions, the state space model of the system is established, which is divided into three subsystems. Then, based on the back-stepping control theory, the Lyapunov function is constructed step-by-step using the recursive approach. By combining the sliding mode control in Step 3, the adaptive law of uncertain parameters is given, and the global back-stepping adaptive sliding mode controller is designed. In addition, the global stability of the closed-loop system is proved by Barbalat’s lemma. The simulation results show that, compared with proportional integral differential control, this approach can compensate the backlash more effectively, reduce the torsional oscillations in both the driving torque and load velocity, and ensure a higher position tracking accuracy and robustness of the system under the same operating conditions.
Can artificially induced habitat complexity alter macroinvertebrates diversity? A case study from a freshwater wetland ecosystem
Authors: Haque Md Ayenuddin , Jewel Md Abu Sayed , Atique Usman , Iqbal Sonia , Akter Sumaiya , Paray Bilal Ahamad , Arai Takaomi , Hossain Mohammad Belal
Published: March 2024

Habitat complexity can enhance the resilience of wetlands against environmental stressors such as extreme weather events, pollution, and habitat loss. The introduction of artificial induced complexity (AIC) can play a significant role in reshaping the macroinvertebrate communities within wetland ecosystems by enhancing habitat quality in protected areas. Therefore, this study was designed to examine the variation of macroinvertebrates community structure in artificially induced complex sanctuary site (SS), partially protected (PP) and open sites (OS) from July 2019-April 2020. AIC in the sanctuary sites was established through the installation of cemented hexapods and ring pipes. Over the study period, a total of 665 macroinvertebrates were gathered, with 55.55% originating from SS, 31.14% from PP, and 18.21% from OS sites. The community consists mainly of Lymnaea acuminatatea and Tubifex tubifex, with the most abundant species being Limnodrillus hoffmeisteri and Branchiura sowerbyi. A notable positive impact of AIC was evident in the increased total abundance and diversity indices of macroinvertebrate communities. The Analysis of Similarity (ANOSIM) revealed significant distinctions in community structures among various intervention types, which was further corroborated by a non-metric multidimensional scaling (nMDS) plot. Similarity of Percentage Analysis (SIMPER) highlighted that Limnodrillus hoffmeisteri made the most significant contribution to the dissimilarity observed among the different intervention types. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) revealed a close association between the structure of the macroinvertebrate community and three key ecological factors: periphyton biomass, macrophyte cover, and sediment properties. These findings could offer a more effective approach for managers and policymakers engaged in the conservation of macroinvertebrates and the sustainable management of fisheries resources within wetland ecosystems.
Sex chromosome turnover plays an important role in the maintenance of barriers to post-speciation introgression in willows
Authors: Xue Zhi-Qing , Applequist Wendy L , Hörandl Elvira , He Li
Published: March 2024

Almost all species in the genus Salix (willow) are dioecious and willows have variable sex-determining systems, the role of this variation in maintaining species barriers is relatively untested. We first analyzed the sex determination systems (SDS) of two species, Salix cardiophylla and Salix interior, whose positions in the Salix phylogeny make them important for understanding a sex chromosome turnover that has been detected in their relatives, and that changed the system from male (XX/XY) to female (ZW/ZZ) heterogamety. We show that both species have male heterogamety, with sex-linked regions (SLRs) on chromosome 15 (termed a 15XY system). The SLRs occupy 21.3% and 22.8% of the entire reference chromosome, respectively. By constructing phylogenetic trees, we determined the phylogenetic positions of all the species with known SDSs. Reconstruction of ancestral SDS character states revealed that the 15XY system is likely the ancestral state in willows. Turnovers of 15XY to 15ZW and 15XY to 7XY likely contributed to early speciation in Salix and gave rise to major groups of the Vetrix and Salix clades. Finally, we tested introgression among species in the phylogenetic trees based on both autosomes and SLRs separately. Frequent introgression was observed among species with 15XY, 15ZW, and 7XY on autosomes, in contrast to the SLR datasets, which showed less introgression, and in particular no gene flow between 15ZW and 7XY species. We argue that, although SDS turnovers in willow speciation may not create complete reproductive barriers, the evolution of SLRs plays important roles in preventing introgression and maintaining species boundaries.
The landscape and predicted roles of structural variants in Fusarium graminearum genomes
Authors: Dhakal Upasana , Kim Hye-Seon , Toomajian Christopher
Published: March 2024

Structural rearrangements, such as inversions, translocations, duplications, and large insertions and deletions, are large-scale genomic variants that can play an important role in shaping phenotypic variation and in genome adaptation and evolution. We used chromosomal-level assemblies from eight Fusarium graminearum isolates to study structural variants and their role in fungal evolution. We generated the assemblies of four of these genomes after Oxford Nanopore sequencing. A total of 87 inversions, 159 translocations, 245 duplications, 58,489 insertions, and 34,102 deletions were detected. Regions of high recombination rate are associated with structural rearrangements, and a significant proportion of inversions, translocations, and duplications overlap with the repeat content of the genome, suggesting recombination and repeat elements are major factors in the origin of structural rearrangements in F. graminearum. Large insertions and deletions introduce presence–absence polymorphisms for many genes, including secondary metabolite biosynthesis cluster genes and predicted effectors genes. Translocation events were found to be shuffling predicted effector-rich regions of the genomes and are likely contributing to the gain and loss of effectors facilitated by recombination. Breakpoints of some structural rearrangements fall within coding sequences and are likely altering the protein products. Structural rearrangements in F. graminearum thus have an important role to play in shaping pathogen–host interactions and broader evolution through genome reorganization, the introduction of presence–absence polymorphisms, and changing protein products and gene regulation.
Systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with pneumoperitoneum without evidence of pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis—when not to operate—a case report
Authors: Iftekhar Wafa , Shaikh Hafsa , Alvi Abdul R
Published: March 2024

Pneumoperitoneum in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is commonly recognized as a surgical emergency that requires exploration. However, it may not be associated with bowel perforation and may be a benign disease manifestation. We present a case of a young patient who developed spontaneous pneumoperitoneum after pulse steroid therapy for lupus enteritis and was successfully managed conservatively. Patients with connective tissue disease may present with pneumoperitoneum, with or without pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis. Therefore, a detailed clinical history, thorough clinical examination, and laboratory parameters should be evaluated before proceeding with surgical intervention. A conservative approach may be attempted in patients with spontaneous pneumoperitoneum, and surgery should only be considered if clinical deterioration occurs.
Multilevel posterior spinal fusion following percutaneous third generation kyphoplasty complicated by vertebral compression fracture progression
Authors: Jung Bongseok , Abbas Anas , Han Justin , Ngan Alex , Katz Austen , Essig David
Published: March 2024

Newer third generation percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKs) may minimize risks associated with older generation kyphoplasties such as new adjacent fractures, fracture progression, cement leakage, neurologic sequelae, and kyphosis. Additionally, posterior pedicle spinal fusion (PPSF) may minimize risk of long-term complications following PKs while maximizing the benefits of stable spinal alignment. The patient developed adjacent fracture progression, posterior retropulsion, and kyphosis following third generation kyphoplasty. Vertebral compression fracture progression was corrected and prolonged symptomatic relief was successfully achieved with T11-L4 PPSF and L1-L2 laminectomy. Postoperative follow-ups at 2, 4, 7 weeks, 1 and 2 years showed continued symptomatic improvement in back pain with resolution of thigh and groin pain. This case supports the use of PPSF in third generation PK-related complications to provide long-term symptom relief and improve quality of life in patients with severe osteoporotic compression fractures.
Does Racial Bias Explain the Black-White Sentencing Gap across U.S. Courts?
Authors: Light Michael T , Vachuska Karl
Published: March 2024

It is widely speculated that prejudicial attitudes and implicit biases are fundamental to understanding racial disparities in criminal punishment. Yet surprisingly little research links measures of racial bias to data on criminal court decision-making. This article fills this gap by combining multiple aggregate measures of implicit and explicit racial bias with data from U.S. federal courts to examine whether racial disparities in sentencing are associated with prejudicial attitudes within the surrounding court context. We find no evidence that racial biases, whether implicit or explicit, significantly influence racial sentencing disparities across U.S. district courts. Nor do we find evidence that racial biases yield greater sentencing disparities in supplementary analyses using county-level court data. We do, however, find suggestive evidence that the prosecutorial application of mandatory minimums is sensitive to the level of racial bias within a court’s jurisdiction. Specifically, we find that Black defendants are disproportionately charged in districts with greater explicit racial animus.
The effects of TiO2, ZnO, IONs and Al2O3 metallic nanoparticles on the CYP1A1 and NBN transcripts in rat liver
Authors: Moselhy Walaa A , Ibrahim Marwa A , Khalifa Ahlam G , El-Nahass El-Shaymaa , Hassan Nour El-Houda Y
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Metal oxide nanoparticles are currently used widely in many aspects of human and animal life with broad prospects for biomedical purposes. The present work was carried out to investigate the effects of orally administrated TiO2NPs, ZnONPs, IONs and Al2O3NPs on the mRNA expression level of CYP 1A1 and NBN in the rat liver.

Materials and Methods

Four groups of male Albino rats were given their respective treatment orally for 60 days in a dose of 1/20 of the LD50 TiO2NPs (600 mg/Kg b.wt/day), ZnONPs (340 mg/Kg b.wt/day), IONs (200 mg/kg b.wt/day) and Al2O3NPs (100 mg/Kg b.wt/day) and a fifth group served as a control group.

Rresults

The mRNA level of CYP 1A1 and NBN showed up-regulation in all the NPs-treated groups relative to the control group. ZnONPs group recorded the highest expression level while the TiO2NPs group showed the lowest expression level transcript. Conclusion:The toxic effects produced by these nanoparticles were more pronounced in the case of zinc oxide, followed by aluminum oxide, iron oxide nanoparticles and titanium dioxide, respectively.
The Plastic Surgery Central Application versus ERAS: Which is Preferred?
Authors: Sarac Benjamin A. , Jackson Kianna , Schwartz Rachel , Gosman Amanda A. , Lin Samuel J. , Janis Jeffrey E.
Published: March 2024

Background:

The Plastic Surgery Central Application (PSCA), designed to provide an equitable and streamlined application for both applicants and programs, was first designed in 2019, piloted in the 2020–21 application cycle, and is now in its fourth cycle in 2023–24. It has included preference signaling since the 2022–23 cycle, a feature in which applicants can send five “signals” to programs to express interest. We surveyed both program directors (PDs) and applicants following the 2023 match on their perceptions of PSCA versus Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).

Methods:

Surveys were deployed to applicants from three integrated plastic surgery programs during the 2022–23 cycle and all PDs. Respondents were asked basic demographic information, which application system they preferred: PSCA or ERAS, how well they were able to highlight/evaluate different areas of the application, and about their experiences specifically with preference signaling.

Results:

Forty-two (48%) PDs and 93 (29%) applicants responded. Most PDs (72%) and applicants (59%) preferred PSCA, with only 18% and 27% preferring ERAS. The remainder had no preference. Ninety-three percent of applicants reported that the cost savings of the PSCA were important. Most applicants (78%) and PDs (80%) were in favor or strongly in favor of the preference signaling program.

Conclusions:

Most applicants and PDs prefer PSCA over ERAS. These data, in conjunction with the cost savings, suggest that the PSCA may be a better alternative for the integrated plastic surgery match. Future analyses of these application systems will help provide the best application for prospective residents.
Keguizhuia sedimenti gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from river sediment represents a novel genus of the family Oxalobacteraceae
Authors: Zhao Shiyu , Ruan Luyao , Mao Dongmei , Jiang Xueting , Lv Yu , Zhang Qi , He Jian , Shen Qirong
Published: March 2024

A Gram-stain-negative bacterium, designated as R-40T, was isolated from sediment of the Mulong river in Mianyang city, Sichuan province, PR China. The cells of strain R-40T were aerobic non-motile and formed translucent white colonies on R2A agar. Growth occurred at 15–37 °C (optimum 30 °C), pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum 7.0) and salinities of 0–3.0 % (w/v, optimum 0 %). R-40T showed 95.2–96.6 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities with the type strains of species of the genera Oxalicibacterium, Herminiimonas, Lacisediminimonas, Paucimonas, Herbaspirillum and Noviherbaspirillum in the family Oxalobacteraceae. The results of phylogenetic analysis based on genome sequences indicated that the strain was clustered with type strains of species of the genera Oxalicibacterium and Herminiimonas in the family Oxalobacteraceae but formed a distinct lineage. The average nucleotide identity (ANI), digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) and average amino acid identity (AAI) values between R-40T and type strains of species of the genera Oxalicibacterium, Herminiimonas, Lacisediminimonas, Paucimonas, Herbaspirillum and Noviherbaspirillum ranged from 69.3 to 74.1 %, from 18.2 to 21.4 % and from 60.1 to 67.4 %, respectively. The major cellular fatty acids were C16 : 0, C17 : 0 cyclo and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or C16 : 1ω6c). The major quinone was ubiquinone-8 (Q-8). The polar lipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phospholipid and small amounts of glycophospholipids. The genome size of R-40T was 5.1 Mbp with 54.0 % DNA G+C content. On the basis of the evidence presented in this study, strain R-40T represents a novel species of a novel genus in the family Oxalobacteraceae, for which the name Keguizhuia sedimenti gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain R-40T=MCCC 1K08818T=KCTC 8137T) is proposed.
Microbulbifer magnicolonia sp. nov., isolated from sediment of tidal flat located in Zhoushan, China
Authors: Tao Lang-Ci , Gao Jia-Wei , Su Yue , Zhang Wen-Wu , Cao Ke , Yu Xiao-Yun , Ma Kuo-Jian , Xu Lin , Xia Xiao-Ming , Sun Cong
Published: March 2024

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, motile with flagella and rod- or ovoid-shaped bacterium, designated GG15T, was isolated from tidal flat sediment sampled in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province. Strain GG15T grew at 20–40 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 5.5–9.5 (optimum, pH 7.0–8.0) and with 1.0–10.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 1.5 %). Colony diameters ranged from 1 to 3 mm within the first week, reaching a maximum of 6–7 mm after 15 days of cultivation. Strain GG15T exhibited highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to Microbulbifer taiwanensis CCM 7856T (98.1 %), with similarity to other species within the genus Microbulbifer ranging from 97.8 to 93.8 %. Similarity values to other genera were below 93.8 %. Strain GG15T exhibited positive activity for β-glucosidase, trypsin and chymotrypsin, whereas the reference strain showed negative activity. Chemotaxonomic analyses indicated that strain GG15T contained Q-8 as the sole respiratory quinone, C16 : 0 (9.1 %), iso-C15 : 0 (30.9 %) and iso-C11 : 0 3-OH (7.2 %) as the predominant fatty acids, and phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified lipids, four unidentified glycolipids, one unidentified phospholipid, two unidentified aminolipids and two unidentified aminophospholipids as the main polar lipids. The genome of strain GG15T was 4 307 641 bp long, comprising 3861 protein-coding genes. The G+C content of strain GG15T was 61.5 mol% based on its genomic sequence. Strain GG15T showed low digital DNA–DNA hybridization (<70 %) and average nucleotide identity values (<95 %) with other Microbulbifer species. As a result, a novel species within the genus Microbulbifer, named Microbulbifer magnicolonia sp. nov., is proposed. The type strain is GG15T (MCCC 1K08802T=KCTC 8210T).
Acute Rift Valley fever virus infection induces inflammatory cytokines and cell death in ex vivo rat brain slice culture
Authors: Connors Kaleigh A. , Frey Zachary D. , Demers Matthew J. , Wills Zachary P. , Hartman Amy L.
Published: March 2024

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging arboviral disease with pandemic potential. While infection is often self-limiting, a subset of individuals may develop late-onset encephalitis, accounting for up to 20 % of severe cases. Importantly, individuals displaying neurologic disease have up to a 53 % case fatality rate, yet the neuropathogenesis of RVFV infection remains understudied. In this study, we evaluated whether ex vivo postnatal rat brain slice cultures (BSCs) could be used to evaluate RVFV infection in the central nervous system. BSCs mounted an inflammatory response after slicing, which resolved over time, and they were viable in culture for at least 12 days. Infection of rat BSCs with pathogenic RVFV strain ZH501 induced tissue damage and apoptosis over 48 h. Viral replication in BSCs reached up to 1×107 p.f.u. equivalents/ml, depending on inoculation dose. Confocal immunofluorescent microscopy of cleared slices confirmed direct infection of neurons as well as activation of microglia and astrocytes. Further, RVFV-infected rat BSCs produced antiviral cytokines and chemokines, including MCP-1 and GRO/KC. This study demonstrates that rat BSCs support replication of RVFV for ex vivo studies of neuropathogenesis. This allows for continued and complementary investigation into RVFV infection in an ex vivo postnatal brain slice culture format.
Exploring the diversity of vaginal microbiota between healthy women and cervical cancer patients in India
Authors: Kamble Ashwini , Naik Shilpa , Talathi Manju , Jadhav Deepali , Sakharkar Meena , Yang Jian , Prakash Om , Kaul-Ghanekar Ruchika
Published: March 2024

Introduction. Cervicovaginal diversity has been reported as a predictive biomarker for cervical cancer risk. We recently reported the bio-therapeutic potential of vaginal probiotics from healthy Indian women against vaginal pathogens, isolated from the invasive cervical cancer (ICC) patients.

Gap Statement. The cervicovaginal microflora from cervical cancer patients has not yet been reported from Indian population.

Aim. The present study aimed at comparing the cervicovaginal microbiome between healthy controls (HC) and ICC patients from the Indian population.

Methodology. In total, 30 vaginal swabs (15 from HC and 15 from ICC) were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Alpha diversity was evaluated by Shannon and Chao1 index; and beta diversity by principle coordinate analysis (PCoA) of weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances. The relative abundance of the microbial taxa was done according to linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe).

Results. Predominance of Staphylococcus spp. in ICC and Lactobacillus gasseri in HC groups was observed. Alpha-diversity was found to be higher in ICC as compared to HC but was statistically non-significant. LEfSe analysis revealed Bacteroides fragilis and Escherichia coli as the marker genera in ICC with a marked decrease in Lactobacillus sp. Contrarily, in HC, L. gasseri, L. iners and L. fermentum were found to be abundant.

Conclusion. Differences in the vaginal microbiome between healthy and ICC women could help in the early prediction of cervical cancer risk and thus in designing prevention strategies.