bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
East European sedimentary basins long heated by a fading mantle upwelling
Authors: Ismail-Zadeh Alik , Davaille Anne , Besse Jean , Volozh Yuri
Published: May 2024

A strong negative anomaly of seismic wave velocities at the core-mantle boundary (the Perm Anomaly) beneath the East European platform is attributed to the remnant of a deep mantle upwelling. The interaction between the upwelling and the East European lithosphere in the geological past and its resulting surface manifestations are still poorly understood. Using mantle plume modelling and global plate motion reconstructions, we show here that the East European lithosphere is likely to have been situated over the weakening Perm Anomaly upwelling for about 150–200 million years. As the East European platform moved above the Perm Anomaly in post-Jurassic times, the vertical tectonic movements recorded in sedimentary hydrocarbon-rich basins show either hiatus/uplift or insignificant subsidence. Analytical modelling of heat conduction through the lithosphere demonstrates that the basins have been slowly heated for a long time by the Perm Anomaly upwelling, creating suitable conditions for hydrocarbon maturation. This suggests a profound relationship between mantle plume dynamics, basin evolution, and hydrocarbon generation.
Large transverse thermoelectric effect induced by the mixed-dimensionality of Fermi surfaces
Authors: Manako Hikari , Ohsumi Shoya , Sato Yoshiki J. , Okazaki R. , Aoki D.
Published: May 2024

Transverse thermoelectric effect, the conversion of longitudinal heat current into transverse electric current, or vice versa, offers a promising energy harvesting technology. Materials with axis-dependent conduction polarity, known as p × n-type conductors or goniopolar materials, are potential candidate, because the non-zero transverse elements of thermopower tensor appear under rotational operation, though the availability is highly limited. Here, we report that a ternary metal LaPt2B with unique crystal structure exhibits axis-dependent thermopower polarity, which is driven by mixed-dimensional Fermi surfaces consisting of quasi-one-dimensional hole sheet with out-of-plane velocity and quasi-two-dimensional electron sheets with in-plane velocity. The ideal mixed-dimensional conductor LaPt2B exhibits an extremely large transverse Peltier conductivity up to ∣αyx∣ = 130 A K−1 m−1, and its transverse thermoelectric performance surpasses those of topological magnets utilizing the anomalous Nernst effect. These results thus manifest the mixed-dimensionality as a key property for efficient transverse thermoelectric conversion.
Western US intraplate deformation controlled by the complex lithospheric structure
Authors: Cao Zebin , Liu Lijun
Published: May 2024

The western United States is one of Earth’s most tectonically active regions, characterized by extensive crustal deformation through intraplate earthquakes and geodetic motion. Such intracontinental deformation is usually ascribed to plate boundary forces, lithospheric body forces, and/or viscous drag from mantle flow. However, their relative importance in driving crustal deformation remains controversial due to inconsistent assumptions on crustal and mantle structures in prior estimations. Here, we utilize a fully dynamic three-dimensional modeling framework with data assimilation to simultaneously compute lithospheric and convective mantle dynamics within the western United States. This approach allows for quantitative estimations of crustal deformation while accounting for the realistic three-dimensional lithospheric structure. Our results show the critical role of the complex lithospheric structure in governing intraplate deformation. Particularly, the interaction between the asthenospheric flow and lithospheric thickness step along the eastern boundary of the Basin and Range represents a key driving mechanism for localized crustal deformation and seismicity.
Neutron scattering and neural-network quantum molecular dynamics investigation of the vibrations of ammonia along the solid-to-liquid transition
Authors: Linker T. M. , Krishnamoorthy A. , Daemen L. L. , Ramirez-Cuesta A. J. , Nomura K. , Nakano A. , Cheng Y. Q. , Hicks W. R. , Kolesnikov A. I. , Vashishta P. D.
Published: May 2024

Vibrational spectroscopy allows us to understand complex physical and chemical interactions of molecular crystals and liquids such as ammonia, which has recently emerged as a strong hydrogen fuel candidate to support a sustainable society. We report inelastic neutron scattering measurement of vibrational properties of ammonia along the solid-to-liquid phase transition with high enough resolution for direct comparisons to ab-initio simulations. Theoretical analysis reveals the essential role of nuclear quantum effects (NQEs) for correctly describing the intermolecular spectrum as well as high energy intramolecular N-H stretching modes. This is achieved by training neural network models using ab-initio path-integral molecular dynamics (PIMD) simulations, thereby encompassing large spatiotemporal trajectories required to resolve low energy dynamics while retaining NQEs. Our results not only establish the role of NQEs in ammonia but also provide general computational frameworks to study complex molecular systems with NQEs.
A genetically encoded biosensor to monitor dynamic changes of c-di-GMP with high temporal resolution
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Andreas , van Vliet Simon , Jakob Roman Peter , Teixeira Raphael Dias , Scheidat Inga , Reinders Alberto , Klotz Alexander , Maier Timm , Jenal Urs
Published: May 2024

Monitoring changes of signaling molecules and metabolites with high temporal resolution is key to understanding dynamic biological systems. Here, we use directed evolution to develop a genetically encoded ratiometric biosensor for c-di-GMP, a ubiquitous bacterial second messenger regulating important biological processes like motility, surface attachment, virulence and persistence. The resulting biosensor, cdGreen2, faithfully tracks c-di-GMP in single cells and with high temporal resolution over extended imaging times, making it possible to resolve regulatory networks driving bimodal developmental programs in different bacterial model organisms. We further adopt cdGreen2 as a simple tool for in vitro studies, facilitating high-throughput screens for compounds interfering with c-di-GMP signaling and biofilm formation. The sensitivity and versatility of cdGreen2 could help reveal c-di-GMP dynamics in a broad range of microorganisms with high temporal resolution. Its design principles could also serve as a blueprint for the development of similar, orthogonal biosensors for other signaling molecules, metabolites and antibiotics.
Synthesis of 13C-depleted organic matter from CO in a reducing early Martian atmosphere
Authors: Ueno Yuichiro , Schmidt Johan A. , Johnson Matthew S. , Zang Xiaofeng , Gilbert Alexis , Kurokawa Hiroyuki , Usui Tomohiro , Aoki Shohei
Published: May 2024

Organic matter found in early Martian sediment may yield clues to the planet’s environmental conditions, prebiotic chemistry and habitability, but its origin remains unclear. Strong 13C depletion in sedimentary organic matter at Gale crater was recently detected by the Curiosity rover. Although this enigmatic depletion remains debated, if correct, a mechanism to cause such strong 13C depletion is required. Here we show from CO2 photolysis experiments and theoretical considerations that solar ultraviolet photolysis of CO2 in a reducing atmosphere can yield strongly 13C-depleted CO. We suggest that atmospheric synthesis of organic compounds from photolysis-produced CO is a plausible mechanism to explain the source of isotopically depleted organic matter in early Martian sediments. Furthermore, this mechanism could explain 13C enrichment of early Martian CO2 without requiring long-term carbon escape into space. A mass balance model calculation using our estimated isotopic fractionation factor indicates the conversion of approximately 20% of volcanic CO2 emissions on early Mars into organics via CO, consistent with the available data for carbon isotopes of carbonate. Although alternative pathways for organic compound production have been proposed, our findings suggest that considerable amounts of organic matter may have been synthesized from CO in a reducing early Martian atmosphere and deposited in sediments.
Tracking single-cell evolution using clock-like chromatin accessibility loci
Authors: Xiao Yu , Jin Wan , Ju Lingao , Fu Jie , Wang Gang , Yu Mengxue , Chen Fangjin , Qian Kaiyu , Wang Xinghuan , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2024

Single-cell chromatin accessibility sequencing (scATAC-seq) reconstructs developmental trajectory by phenotypic similarity. However, inferring the exact developmental trajectory is challenging. Previous studies showed age-associated DNA methylation (DNAm) changes in specific genomic regions, termed clock-like differential methylation loci (ClockDML). Age-associated DNAm could either result from or result in chromatin accessibility changes at ClockDML. As cells undergo mitosis, the heterogeneity of chromatin accessibility on clock-like loci is reduced, providing a measure of mitotic age. In this study, we developed a method, called EpiTrace, that counts the fraction of opened clock-like loci from scATAC-seq data to determine cell age and perform lineage tracing in various cell lineages and animal species. It shows concordance with known developmental hierarchies, correlates well with DNAm-based clocks and is complementary with mutation-based lineage tracing, RNA velocity and stemness predictions. Applying EpiTrace to scATAC-seq data reveals biological insights with clinically relevant implications, ranging from hematopoiesis, organ development, tumor biology and immunity to cortical gyrification.
Direct transposition of native DNA for sensitive multimodal single-molecule sequencing
Authors: Nanda Arjun S. , Wu Ke , Irkliyenko Iryna , Woo Brian , Ostrowski Megan S. , Clugston Andrew S. , Sayles Leanne C. , Xu Lingru , Satpathy Ansuman T. , Nguyen Hao G. , Alejandro Sweet-Cordero E. , Goodarzi Hani , Kasinathan Sivakanthan , Ramani Vijay
Published: May 2024

Concurrent readout of sequence and base modifications from long unamplified DNA templates by Pacific Biosciences of California (PacBio) single-molecule sequencing requires large amounts of input material. Here we adapt Tn5 transposition to introduce hairpin oligonucleotides and fragment (tagment) limiting quantities of DNA for generating PacBio-compatible circular molecules. We developed two methods that implement tagmentation and use 90–99% less input than current protocols: (1) single-molecule real-time sequencing by tagmentation (SMRT-Tag), which allows detection of genetic variation and CpG methylation; and (2) single-molecule adenine-methylated oligonucleosome sequencing assay by tagmentation (SAMOSA-Tag), which uses exogenous adenine methylation to add a third channel for probing chromatin accessibility. SMRT-Tag of 40 ng or more human DNA (approximately 7,000 cell equivalents) yielded data comparable to gold standard whole-genome and bisulfite sequencing. SAMOSA-Tag of 30,000–50,000 nuclei resolved single-fiber chromatin structure, CTCF binding and DNA methylation in patient-derived prostate cancer xenografts and uncovered metastasis-associated global epigenome disorganization. Tagmentation thus promises to enable sensitive, scalable and multimodal single-molecule genomics for diverse basic and clinical applications.
Enhancing the trustworthiness of chaos and synchronization of chaotic satellite model: a practice of discrete fractional-order approaches
Authors: Rashid Saima , Hamidi Sher Zaman , Akram Saima , Alosaimi Moataz , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: May 2024

Accurate development of satellite maneuvers necessitates a broad orbital dynamical system and efficient nonlinear control techniques. For achieving the intended formation, a framework of a discrete fractional difference satellite model is constructed by the use of commensurate and non-commensurate orders for the control and synchronization of fractional-order chaotic satellite system. The efficacy of the suggested framework is evaluated employing a numerical simulation of the concerning dynamic systems of motion while taking into account multiple considerations such as Lyapunov exponent research, phase images and bifurcation schematics. With the aid of discrete nabla operators, we monitor the qualitative behavioural patterns of satellite systems in order to provide justification for the structure’s chaos. We acquire the fixed points of the proposed trajectory. At each fixed point, we calculate the eigenvalue of the satellite system’s Jacobian matrix and check for zones of instability. The outcomes exhibit a wide range of multifaceted behaviours resulting from the interaction with various fractional-orders in the offered system. Additionally, the sample entropy evaluation is employed in the research to determine complexities and endorse the existence of chaos. To maintain stability and synchronize the system, nonlinear controllers are additionally provided. The study highlights the technique’s vulnerability to fractional-order factors, resulting in exclusive, changing trends and equilibrium frameworks. Because of its diverse and convoluted behaviour, the satellite chaotic model is an intriguing and crucial subject for research.
Feasibility and safety report on robotic assistance for cervical pedicle screw fixation: a cadaveric study
Authors: Ryu Seungjun , Ha Byeong-Jin , Yoon Sunjin , Lee Chang Kyu , Shin Dong Ah , Kim Keung-Nyun , Yi Seong
Published: May 2024

This cadaveric study aimed to evaluate the safety and usability of a novel robotic system for posterior cervical pedicle screw fixation. Three human cadaveric specimens and C2-T3 were included. Freshly frozen human cadaver specimens were prepared and subjected to robot-assisted posterior cervical pedicle screw fixation using the robotic system. The accuracy of screw placement, breach rate, and critical structure violations were evaluated. The results were statistically compared with those of previous studies that used different robotic systems for cervical pedicle screw fixation. The robotic system demonstrated a high accuracy rate in screw placement. A significant number of screws were placed within predetermined safe zones. The total entry offset was 1.08 ± 0.83 mm, the target offset was 1.86 ± 0.50 mm, and the angle offset was 2.14 ± 0.77°. Accuracy rates comparable with those of previous studies using different robotic systems were achieved. The system was also feasible, allowing precise navigation and real-time feedback during the procedure. This cadaveric study validated the safety and usability of the novel robotic system for posterior cervical pedicle screw fixation. The system exhibited high precision in screw placement, and the results support the extension of the indications for robot-assisted pedicle screw fixation from the lumbar spine to the cervical spine.
A nomogram to predict mortality in patients with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome
Authors: Fang Kun , Song Xuezhen , Bo Jinshuang
Published: May 2024

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an acute infectious disease caused by a novel Bunyavirus infection with low population immunity and high mortality rate. Lacking specific therapies, the treatment measures vary with the severity of the disease, therefore, a case control study involved 394 SFTS patients was taken to determine risk factors for mortality. Comparative clinical data from the first 24 h after admission was collected through the electronic medical record system. Independent risk factors for death of SFTS were identified through univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses. The results of the logistic regression were visualized using a nomogram which was created by downloading RMS package in the R program. In our study, four independent mortality risk factors were identified: advanced age(mean 70.45 ± 7.76 years), MODS, elevated APTT, and D-dimer. The AUC of the nomogram was 0.873 (0.832, 0.915), and the model passes the calibration test namely Unreliability test with P = 0.958, showing that the model's predictive ability is excellent. The nomogram to determine the risk of death in SFTS efficiently provide a basis for clinical decision-making for treatment.
Characteristics of drug resistance mutations in ART-experienced HIV-1 patients with low-level viremia in Zhengzhou City, China
Authors: Liu Jinjin , Li Chaofeng , Sun Yan , Fu Chaohong , Wei Shuguang , Zhang Xiaohua , Ma Jie , Zhao Qingxia , Huo Yuqi
Published: May 2024

Although most people living with HIV (PLWH) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) achieve continuous viral suppression, some show detectable HIV RNA as low-level viremia (LLV) (50–999 copies/mL). Drug resistance mutations (DRMs) in PLWH with LLV is of particular concern as which may lead to treatment failure. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of LLV and LLV-associated DRMs in PLWH in Zhengzhou City, China. Of 3616 ART-experienced PLWH in a long-term follow-up cohort from Jan 2022 to Aug 2023, 120 were identified as having LLV. Of these PLWH with LLV, we obtained partial pol and integrase sequences from 104 (70 from HIV-1 RNA and 34 from proviral DNA) individuals. DRMs were identified in 44 individuals. Subtyping analysis indicated that the top three subtypes were B (48.08%, 50/104), CRF07_BC (31.73%, 33/104), and CRF01_AE (15.38%, 16/104). The proportions of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), protease inhibitors (PIs), and integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) associated DRMs were 23.83% (24/104), 35.58% (37/104), 5.77% (6/104), and 3.85% (4/104), respectively, which contributed to an overall prevalence of 42.31% (44/104). When analyzed by individual DRMs, the most common mutation(s) were V184 (18.27%, 19/104), followed by V179 (11.54%, 12/104), K103 (9.62%, 10/104), Y181 (9.62%, 10/104), M41 (7.69%, 8/104), and K65R (7.69%, 8/104). The prevalence of DRMs in ART-experienced PLWH with LLV is high in Zhengzhou City and continuous surveillance can facilitate early intervention and provision of effective treatment.
Effects of Eucalyptus wood and leaf litter on saproxylic insects in the southeastern United States
Authors: Ulyshen Michael D. , Horn Scott , Aubrey Doug , Hoebeke E. Richard , Coyle David R.
Published: May 2024

AlthoughEucalyptusis widely planted outside its native range for timber and pulp production, the effects of these exotic plantations on biodiversity relative to native semi-natural forests or plantations of native tree species remain incompletely understood. Here, we compare the diversity of saproxylic beetles (Coleoptera) and true bugs (Hemiptera) between non-nativeEucalyptus benthamiiMaiden and Cambage (Camden white gum) and nativePinus taedaL. (loblolly pine) stands on the upper Coastal Plain of South Carolina, U.S.A. We sampled insects emerging from logs of both species placed in both stand types after 1, 2, 6, and 12 months in the field. Beetle and true bug richness and diversity were both significantly lower from eucalypt than from pine wood. Moreover, the two communities were compositionally distinct. Whereas pine supported many species of host-specific phloeoxylophagous beetles, most species collected from eucalypts were mycophagous or predatory taxa capable of utilizing a wide range of hosts. Species richness did not differ between logs placed in eucalypt vs. pine stands but Shannon’s diversity was significantly higher in the eucalypt stands, possibly due to greater sun exposure in the latter. Contrary to a previous study, we found no support for the idea that eucalypt litter reduces the diversity of saproxylic insects. Our findings add to the growing body of evidence that non-native plantations are less favorable to biodiversity than those consisting of native tree species.
Low power nanoscale S-FED based single ended sense amplifier applied in integrate and fire neuron circuit
Authors: Motaman SeyedMohamadJavad , Ghafouri Tara , Manavizadeh Negin
Published: May 2024

Current advancements in neuromorphic computing systems are focused on decreasing power consumption and enriching computational functions. Correspondingly, state-of-the-art system-on-chip developers are encouraged to design nanoscale devices with minimum power dissipation and high-speed operation. This paper deals with designing a sense amplifier based on side-contacted field-effect diodes to reduce the power-delay product (PDP) and the noise susceptibility, as critical factors in neuron circuits. Our findings reveal that both static and dynamic power consumption of the S-FED-based sense amplifier, equal to 1.86 μW and 1.92 fW/GHz, are × 243.03 and × 332.83 lower than those of the conventional CMOS counterpart, respectively. While the sense-amplifier circuit based on CMOS technology undergoes an output voltage deviation of 170.97 mV, the proposed S-FED-based one enjoys a minor output deviation of 27.31 mV. Meanwhile, the superior HIGH-level and LOW-level noise margins of the S-FED-based sense amplifier to the CMOS counterparts (∆NMH = 70 mV and ∆NML = 120 mV), respectively, can ensure the system-level operation stability of the former one. Subsequent to the attainment of an area-efficient, low-power, and high-speed S-FED-based sense amplifier (PDP = 187.75 × 10–18 W s) as a fundamental building block, devising an innovative integrate-and-fire neuron circuit based on S-FED paves the way to realize a new generation of neuromorphic architectures. To shed light on this context, an S-FED-based integrate-and-fire neuron circuit is designed and analyzed utilizing a sense amplifier and feedback loop to enhance spiking voltage and subsequent noise immunity in addition to an about fourfold increase in firing frequency compared to CMOS-based ones.
Novel betaherpesviruses and gammaherpesviruses in bats from central China
Authors: Duan Shuhui , Li Zemin , Zhang Xu , Yu Xue-Jie
Published: May 2024

Herpesviruses are large double-stranded DNA viruses that cause infections in animals and humans with a characteristic of latent infectious within specific tissues. Bats are natural hosts of variety human-infecting viruses and recently have been described as hosts for herpesviruses in several countries around the world. In this study we collected 140 insectivorous bats in the neighboring urban areas of Wuhan City, Hubei Province in the central China between 2020 and 2021. Nested PCR targeting the dpol gene sequence indicated that a total of 22 individuals (15.7% of the sample) tested positive for herpesvirus with 4 strains belonging to the genus Betaherpesvirus and the remaining 18 strains classified as Gammahersvirus. Furthermore, the herpesvirus prevalence in Rhinolophus pusillus was higher at 26.3%, compared to 8.4% in Myotis davidii. The RP701 strain from R. pusillus was the predominant gammaherpesvirus strain detected in bats, accounting for 94.4% (17/18) of all strains. The variations in γ-herpesviruses genomic sequences was evident in phylogenetic tree, where RP701 strain was clustered together with ruminant γ-herpesviruses, while MD704 strain formed a distinct clade with a hedgehog γ-herpesvirus. Four betaherpesviruses exclusively identified from M. davidii, with nucleotide identities ranging from 79.7 to 82.6% compared to known betaherpesviruses. Our study provided evidence that M. davidii can sever as natural host for β-herpesviruses, which extended the host species range. In conclusion, we found that bats from central China harbored novel β-herpesviruses and γ-herpesviruses which were phylogenetically related to ruminant γ-herpesvirus and hedgehog γ-herpesvirus. Our study indicates that bats are natural hosts of β- and γ-herpesviruses and further studies are needed to determine whether there is cross-species transmission of herpesviruses between bats and other animals, or humans.
Effect of biological shells aggregate on the mechanical properties and sustainability of concrete
Authors: Wang Xianpeng , Yu Haoxuan , Li Fulong , Sergey Nikolayevich Kovshar , Yu Haojue , Sergey Nikolaevich Leonovich , Fan Wenbing
Published: May 2024

The recycling bio-waste shells problem has grown more and more serious in recent years and many efforts have been made to solve this problem. One possible solution is to put these bio-shells into concrete and recycle them as building materials using the aggregate matrix concrete approach. To verify the engineering feasibility, the mechanical properties of bio-shells aggregated concrete were invested via gradient substitution rates at 10%, 30%, and 50% with a total of 78 groups of specimens in this paper. Our results show that the mechanical properties of the concrete were enhanced in maximum flexural strength and maximum compressive. Economic performance was also analyzed and found that the costs of frame-shear structure, frame structure, and tube-in-tube structure were reduced by 10.2%, 10%, and 10.3%. The carbon environmental assessment also shows superiority in the carbon reduction of a single specimen with various rates of the shell. In summary, compared with ordinary concrete materials, it is very possible to use waste bio-shells as a substitute for aggregates to develop the sustainable recycling development of concrete materials.
Lysyl oxidase-like 2 as a predictor of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis C virus after sustained virological response
Authors: Chida Takeshi , Ohta Kazuyoshi , Noritake Hidenao , Matsushita Masahiro , Murohisa Gou , Kageyama Fujito , Sasada Yuzo , Oyaizu Tatsuki , Tsugiki Minoru , Tamakoshi Katsutoshi , Nakajima Takeyuki , Suda Takafumi , Kawata Kazuhito
Published: May 2024

Lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) mediates the crosslinking of extracellular collagen, reflecting qualitative changes in liver fibrosis. This study aimed to validate the utility of serum LOXL2 levels as a predictive biomarker for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). This retrospective study included 137 patients with chronic HCV infection without history of HCC development and who achieved SVR via direct-acting antiviral therapy. Median LOXL2 levels decreased significantly after SVR achievement (pre-Tx, 2.33 ng/mL; post-Tx, 1.31 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Post-Tx LOXL2 levels, fibrosis-4 index, platelet counts, Wisteria floribunda agglutinin-positive human Mac-2 binding protein levels, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels were identified as independent predictive factors for post-SVR HCC development in the univariate analysis. The incidence of post-SVR HCC development was significantly higher in patients with post-Tx LOXL2 levels ≥ 2.08 ng/mL and AFP levels ≥ 5.0 ng/mL than in patients with elevated levels of either marker or with lower marker levels. Serum LOXL2 levels can serve as a predictive biomarker for HCC development after achieving SVR. The combination of serum LOXL2 and AFP levels provides robust risk stratification for HCC development after SVR, suggesting an enhanced surveillance strategy.
Advection surface-flux balance controls the seasonal steric sea level amplitude
Authors: Hochet Antoine , Llovel William , Huck Thierry , Sévellec Florian
Published: May 2024

Along with the mean sea level rise due to climate change, the sea level exhibits natural variations at a large number of different time scales. One of the most important is the one linked with the seasonal cycle. In the Northern Hemisphere winter, the sea level is as much as 20 cm below its summer values in some locations. It is customary to associate these variations with the seasonal cycle of the sea surface net heat flux which drives an upper-ocean thermal expansion creating a positive steric sea level anomaly. Here, using a novel framework based on steric sea level variance budget applied to observations and to the Estimating the Circulation and Climate of the Ocean state estimate, we demonstrate that the steric sea level seasonal cycle amplitude results from a balance between the seasonal sea surface net heat flux and the oceanic advective processes. Moreover, for up to 50% of the ocean surface, surface heat fluxes act to damp the seasonal steric sea level cycle amplitude, which is instead forced by oceanic advection processes. We also show that eddies play an important role in damping the steric sea level seasonal cycle. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the steric sea level mechanisms which is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable climate projections.
Comparison of anthracycline-containing and anthracycline-free regimens in neoadjuvant HER-2 positive breast cancer treatment
Authors: Bardakci Murat , Karakas Hilal , Bayram Dogan , Avci Nilufer , Kitapli Sait , Ozen Mirac , Aslan Ferit , Koseoglu Caglar , Kadioglu Ahmet , Onur Ilknur D. , Sakalar Teoman , Buyuksimsek Mahmut , Alkan Ali , Ergun Yakup , Kaya Ali O. , Bilgin Burak , Yalcin Bulent
Published: May 2024

While some clinics have adopted abbreviated neoadjuvant treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer, there remains a shortage of comprehensive clinical data to support this practice. This is a retrospective, multicenter study. A total of 142 patients were included in the study who are HER2-positive breast cancer, aged ≤ 65 years, with left ventricular ejection fraction ≥ 50%, received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and underwent surgery at 10 different oncology centers in Türkiye between October 2016 and December 2022. The treatment arms were divided into 4–6 cycles of docetaxel/trastuzumab/pertuzumab for arm A, 4 cycles of adriamycin/cyclophosphamide followed by 4 cycles of taxane/TP for arm B. There were 50 patients (35.2%) in arm A and 92 patients (64.8%) in arm B. The median follow-up of all of the patients was 19.9 months (95% CI 17.5–22.3). The 3-year DFS rates for treatment arms A and B were 90.0% and 83.8%, respectively, and the survival outcomes between the groups were similar (p = 0.34). Furthermore, the pathologic complete response rates were similar in both treatment arms, at 50.0% and 51.1%, respectively (p = 0.90). This study supports shortened neoadjuvant treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, a common practice in some clinics.
Spacetime magnetic hopfions from internal excitations and braiding of skyrmions
Authors: Knapman Ross , Tausendpfund Timon , Díaz Sebastián A. , Everschor-Sitte Karin
Published: May 2024

Spatial topology endows topological solitons, such as skyrmions and hopfions, with fascinating dynamics. However, the temporal dimension has so far provided a passive stage on which topological solitons evolve. Here we construct spacetime magnetic hopfions: magnetic textures in two spatial dimensions that when excited by a time-periodic drive develop spacetime topology. We uncover two complementary construction routes using skyrmions by braiding their center of mass position and by controlling their internal low-energy excitations. Spacetime magnetic hopfions can be realized in nanopatterned grids to braid skyrmions and in frustrated magnets under an applied AC electric field. Their topological invariant, the spacetime Hopf index, can be tuned by the applied electric field as demonstrated by our collective coordinate modeling and micromagnetic simulations. The principles we have introduced to actively control spacetime topology are not limited to magnetic solitons, opening avenues to explore spacetime topology of general order parameters and fields.
A comprehensive AI model development framework for consistent Gleason grading
Authors: Huo Xinmi , Ong Kok Haur , Lau Kah Weng , Gole Laurent , Young David M. , Tan Char Loo , Zhu Xiaohui , Zhang Chongchong , Zhang Yonghui , Li Longjie , Han Hao , Lu Haoda , Zhang Jing , Hou Jun , Zhao Huanfen , Gan Hualei , Yin Lijuan , Wang Xingxing , Chen Xiaoyue , Lv Hong , Cao Haotian , Yu Xiaozhen , Shi Yabin , Huang Ziling , Marini Gabriel , Xu Jun , Liu Bingxian , Chen Bingxian , Wang Qiang , Gui Kun , Shi Wenzhao , Sun Yingying , Chen Wanyuan , Cao Dalong , Sanders Stephan J. , Lee Hwee Kuan , Hue Susan Swee-Shan , Yu Weimiao , Tan Soo Yong
Published: May 2024

Background

Artificial Intelligence(AI)-based solutions for Gleason grading hold promise for pathologists, while image quality inconsistency, continuous data integration needs, and limited generalizability hinder their adoption and scalability.

Methods

We present a comprehensive digital pathology workflow for AI-assisted Gleason grading. It incorporates A!MagQC (image quality control), A!HistoClouds (cloud-based annotation), Pathologist-AI Interaction (PAI) for continuous model improvement, Trained on Akoya-scanned images only, the model utilizes color augmentation and image appearance migration to address scanner variations. We evaluate it on Whole Slide Images (WSI) from another five scanners and conduct validations with pathologists to assess AI efficacy and PAI.

Results

Our model achieves an average F1 score of 0.80 on annotations and 0.71 Quadratic Weighted Kappa on WSIs for Akoya-scanned images. Applying our generalization solution increases the average F1 score for Gleason pattern detection from 0.73 to 0.88 on images from other scanners. The model accelerates Gleason scoring time by 43% while maintaining accuracy. Additionally, PAI improve annotation efficiency by 2.5 times and led to further improvements in model performance.

Conclusions

This pipeline represents a notable advancement in AI-assisted Gleason grading for improved consistency, accuracy, and efficiency. Unlike previous methods limited by scanner specificity, our model achieves outstanding performance across diverse scanners. This improvement paves the way for its seamless integration into clinical workflows.
Stabilizing the oxidation state of catalysts for effective electrochemical carbon dioxide conversion
Authors: Wang Zhitong , Xu Lizhi , Zhou Yansong , Liang Ying , Yang Jinlin , Wu Daoxiong , Zhang Shuyu , Han Xingqi , Shi Xiaodong , Li Jing , Yuan Yuliang , Deng Peilin , Tian Xinlong
Published: May 2024

Developing sophisticated strategies to stabilize oxidative metal catalysts based on the correlation between the dynamic oxidation state and the product profile is favorable for efficient electrochemical CO2 conversion.
Characterization of the first Peacock–Weakley polyoxometalate containing a transplutonium element: curium bis-pentatungstate [Cm(W5O18)2]9−
Authors: Colliard Ian , Deblonde Gauthier J.-P.
Published: May 2024

Leveraging microgram-level techniques, we here present the first transplutonium bis-pentatungstate complex: NaCs8Cm(W5O18)2·14H2O (CmW5).
Mechanical properties and behavior of the Ti–45Nb alloy subjected to extreme conditions
Authors: Zagorac Dejan , Prasad Dasari L. V. K. , Škundrić Tamara , Yadav Kedar , Singh Surender , Laketić Slađana , Zagorac Jelena , Momčilović Miloš , Cvijović-Alagić Ivana
Published: May 2024

Ti–45Nb alloy biomechanical compatibility was evaluated by a multidisciplinary approach and improved by extreme condition processing. Ab initio calculations of mechanical properties are in very good agreement with experimental observations.
*H migration-assisted MvK mechanism for efficient electrochemical NH3 synthesis over TM–TiNO
Authors: Cui Luyao , Sun Zijun , Wang Yawen , Jian Xuan , Li Houfen , Zhang Xiao , Gao Xiaoming , Li Rui , Liu Jianxin
Published: May 2024

Ni–TiNO promotes H2O decomposition and N2 adsorption through the *H migration-assisted MvK mechanism, thereby accelerating NH3 synthesis.
An integrated Janus hydrogel with different hydrophilicities and gradient pore structures for high-performance zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Kaiyue , Niu Xiling , Xie Weili , Yang Hanmiao , Jiang Weikang , Ma Manxia , Yang Weishen
Published: May 2024

A pioneering achievement is made in developing integrated Janus hydrogel electrolytes featuring gradient pores in cross-section and varying hydrophilicities on surfaces. This novel hydrogel enables Zn-ion batteries to exhibit excellent performance.
In silico and in vivo discovery of antioxidant sea cucumber peptides with antineurodegenerative properties
Authors: Wang Qiangqiang , Liang Ming , Xiao Yue , Li Zhenhua , Chen Xiaohe , Cheng Peng , Qi Bing , Yu Yi , Lei Tao , Huang Zebo
Published: May 2024

Novel antioxidant sea cucumber peptide identified by in silico and in vivo screenings protects C. elegans against neurodegeneration by reducing oxidative stress and upregulating lysosomal proteases.
Effect of a buffer/iodide electrolyte on the performance of electrochemical capacitors
Authors: Klimek Amelia , Tobis Maciej , Frackowiak Elzbieta
Published: May 2024

New strategy using buffer solutions and iodide as additive for improvement of EC performance.
Deoxygenation of heterocyclic N-oxides employing iodide and formic acid as a sustainable reductant
Authors: Cruz-Jiménez Alicia Elvira , Argumedo-Castrejón Paola Alejandra , Mateus-Ruiz Jeferson B. , Lucas-Rosales Victor A. , Valle-González Octavio Adrián , Jiménez-Halla J. Oscar C. , Luján-Montelongo J. Armando
Published: May 2024

We present a novel deoxygenation method of heterocyclic N-oxides catalyzed by iodide (MgI2) and regenerated by formic acid. Mechanistic insights are provided through DFT investigations.
PLNPs/SCN heterojunction composites with a green afterglow for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Abulimiti Abuduaini , Yan Peng , Niu Mengfan , Abdukayum Abdukader
Published: May 2024

A ZnGa5Si5O18/sulfur-doped carbon nitride composite with a green afterglow exhibited excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity, which is higher than that of PLNPs and SCN.
Disentangling doping and strain effects at defects of grown MoS2 monolayers with nano-optical spectroscopy
Authors: Sousa Frederico B. , Nadas Rafael , Martins Rafael , Barboza Ana P. M. , Soares Jaqueline S. , Neves Bernardo R. A. , Silvestre Ive , Jorio Ado , Malard Leandro M.
Published: May 2024

We use tip-enhanced photoluminescence and Raman spectroscopy to investigate the impact of distinct defects in the optical properties of MoS2 monolayers with nanoscale resolution, disentangling the role of strain and doping effects for each defect.
Epigenetic mechanisms linking early-life adversities and mental health
Authors: Cánepa Eduardo T. , Berardino Bruno G.
Published: May 2024

Early-life adversities, whether prenatal or postnatal exposure, have been linked to adverse mental health outcomes later in life increasing the risk of several psychiatric disorders. Research on its neurobiological consequences demonstrated an association between exposure to adversities and persistent alterations in the structure, function, and connectivity of the brain. Consistent evidence supports the idea that regulation of gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms are involved in embedding the impact of early-life experiences in the genome and mediate between social environments and later behavioral phenotypes. In addition, studies from rodent models and humans suggest that these experiences and the acquired risk factors can be transmitted through epigenetic mechanisms to offspring and the following generations potentially contributing to a cycle of disease or disease risk. However, one of the important aspects of epigenetic mechanisms, unlike genetic sequences that are fixed and unchangeable, is that although the epigenetic markings are long-lasting, they are nevertheless potentially reversible. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms involved in the mental health consequences derived from early-life exposure to malnutrition, maltreatment and poverty, adversities with huge and pervasive impact on mental health. We also discuss the evidence about transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals and experimental data suggesting that suitable social and pharmacological interventions could reverse adverse epigenetic modifications induced by early-life negative social experiences. In this regard, these studies must be accompanied by efforts to determine the causes that promote these adversities and that result in health inequity in the population.
Catalytic mechanism and kinetics of malate dehydrogenase
Authors: de Lorenzo Laura , Stack Tyler M.M. , Fox Kristin M. , Walstrom Katherine M.
Published: May 2024

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) is a ubiquitous and central enzyme in cellular metabolism, found in all kingdoms of life, where it plays vital roles in the cytoplasm and various organelles. It catalyzes the reversible NAD+-dependent reduction of L-malate to oxaloacetate. This review describes the reaction mechanism for MDH and the effects of mutations in and around the active site on catalytic activity and substrate specificity, with a particular focus on the loop that encloses the active site after the substrates have bound. While MDH exhibits selectivity for its preferred substrates, mutations can alter the specificity of MDH for each cosubstrate. The kinetic characteristics and similarities of a variety of MDH isozymes are summarized, and they illustrate that the KM values are consistent with the relative concentrations of the substrates in cells. As a result of its existence in different cellular environments, MDH properties vary, making it an attractive model enzyme for studying enzyme activity and structure under different conditions.
Collaborative optimization model of industrial high‐energy consumption park under green and low‐carbon transformation
Authors: Ma Shaohua , Wang Qiwei , Nie Tong , Chen Zhe , Teng Yun
Published: May 2024

Under the background of green and low‐carbon transformation of industrial high‐energy‐consuming parks, in order to realize the coordinated development planning of energy and transportation under different peaking capacity requirements, this paper proposes a collaborative optimization model of industrial high‐energy‐consuming parks under green and low‐carbon. Firstly, by studying the energy balance mechanism between industrial load and new energy, an energy topology prior model of energy interaction in the next generation of industrial new energy power grid is constructed. Then, based on the probability characteristics of the equilibrium state of different regions in the high‐energy‐consuming industrial zone, combined with the prior knowledge of industrial load and low‐carbon power system, a collaborative development planning model of high‐energy‐consuming industrial parks is constructed. Finally, the proposed model is simulated. From the simulation results the authors can see the dynamic division model and solution algorithm of energy balance region established in this paper can effectively improve the energy balance ability of power grid, reduce peak shaving demand and use more renewable energy.
Reflective practice as a basis for building a sustainable public space: the case of Kartuzy
Authors: Martyniuk-Pęczek Justyna , Pęczek Grzegorz
Published: May 2024

Recent decades have been characterized by dynamic changes in the urban design process in post-transition countries such as Poland. Numerous activities have focused on upgrading the urban environment. The transformation that drives change also requires some new skills, which are described in the theory of reflective practice: observation, experience, and reflection. The goal of this paper is to build a descriptive scheme of the urban design process based on the reflective practice approach. The case of Kartuzy was chosen as the authors of this paper actively participated in this town’s 10-year redevelopment process, which can be seen as an experimental approach. The experience gathered allowed them to generate results on the issue of reflective practice, both in the sphere of practical skills and the theoretical results of research. One of the main conclusions is that knowledge exchange, observing the influence of actions of participants, and experiencing various types of interactions in the process of spatial development all drive reflection, which is a crucial element for taking another step in improving the quality of the urban design process. This paper contributes to a discussion on using reflective practice in the context of the development of public spaces towards making them more sustainable.
Detecting causal relationships between work motivation and job performance: a meta-analytic review of cross-lagged studies
Authors: Wang Nan , Luan Yuxiang , Ma Rui
Published: May 2024

Given that competing hypotheses about the causal relationship between work motivation and job performance exist, the current research utilized meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM) methodology to detect the causal relationships between work motivation and job performance. In particular, completing hypotheses were checked by applying longitudinal data that include 84 correlations (n = 4389) from 11 independent studies measuring both work motivation and job performance over two waves. We find that the effect of motivation (T1) on performance (T2), with performance (T1) controlled, was positive and significant (β = 0.143). However, the effect of performance (T1) on motivation (T2), with motivation (T1) controlled, was not significant. These findings remain stable and robust across different measures of job performance (task performance versus organizational citizenship behavior), different measures of work motivation (engagement versus other motivations), and different time lags (1–6 months versus 7–12 months), suggesting that work motivation is more likely to cause job performance than vice versa. Practical and theoretical contributions are discussed.
The effects of social support and parental autonomy support on the mental well-being of university students: the mediating role of a parent–child relationship
Authors: Jameel Arif , Ma Zhiqiang , Li Mingxing , Hussain Abid , Asif Muhammad , Wang Yan
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the complex response techniques employed to halt its spread, are both detrimental to mental and emotional well-being. Students’ lives have been damaged by social alienation and self-isolation. These effects must be detected, analyzed, and dealt with to make sure the well-being of individuals, specifically students. This research examines the impact of parent–child relationships, parental autonomy support, and social support on enhancing students’ mental well-being using data collected from post-COVID-19. The Potential participants were students from several universities in Pakistan. For this reason, we chose Pakistan’s Punjab province, with 8 prominent institutions, as the primary focus for data collection. A questionnaire was created to gather information from 355 students. For descriptive statistics, SPSS was used, while AMOS structural equation modeling was used to test hypotheses. The findings revealed that social support on mental well-being (standardized β = 0.43, t = 7.57, p < 0.01) and parental autonomy support was significant and positively related to mental well-being (standardized β = 0.31, t = 5.016, p < 0.01), and predicted parent–child relationships. Furthermore, the parent–child relationship strongly mediated the association between social support, parental autonomy support, and students’ mental well-being. This research proposes that good social support and parental autonomy support improve parent–children relationships and contribute to students’ mental well-being.