bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipidomic Analysis on Gender-Dependent Hepatocellular Carcinogenesis in Hras12V Transgenic Mice
Authors: Hu Juefu , Li Huiling , Mao Nan , Di Huaiyuan , Zhao Yanan , Chen Jun , Wang Aiguo
Published: November 2023

Lipid dysregulation is critically involved in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Further, male predi-lection and Ras pathway hyperactivation are distinct characteristics of HCC. However, mecha-nisms underlying their connections remain unknown. The aim of the present study was to perform a comprehensive lipidomics analysis of a Hras12V transgenic mice (Ras-Tg) model of HCC induced by hepatocyte-specific Ras pathway activation and characterized by male predilection and a dis-rupted lipid metabolism. A total of 3437 lipids were identified in HCC (T) and peri-tumor tissues (P) of Ras-Tg mice and liver tissues of wild-type mice (W) of both sexes. Longitudinal comparisons of W, P, and T yielded 359 differentially expressed lipids (DELs) in male mice and 306 DELs in female mice. Generally, glycerolipid accumulation, glycerophospholipid reduction and monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis improvement were more frequent in T compared to P. The expression change pattern analysis revealed common and characteristic DELs positively/negatively associated with HCC or the Ras oncogene. Further lipid metabolism pathway investigations revealed that disordered lipid and fatty acid biosynthesis contributed to glycerolipid accumulation and glycerophospholipid re-duction in T. Comparisons between P and W suggests that different responses to the Ras oncogene in mice of different sexes, as well as higher amounts of aberrantly regulated lipids in males, may contribute to male-biased hepatocarcinogenesis. However, lateral comparisons between sexes showed a converging trend during hepatocarcinogenesis, explaining the poor efficacy for gen-der-specific therapies. In conclusion, the common and characteristic DELs and lipid metabolism pathways in HCC initiated by the Ras oncogene from sexually dimorphic hepatocytes provide novel insights into the clinical diagnosis and management of HCC.
Hydraulic Performance Optimization of a Submersible Drainage Pump
Authors: Rakibuzzaman Md , Rakibuzzaman Md , Suh Sang-Ho , Roh Hyung-Woon , Song Kyung Hee , Song Kwang Chul , Zhou Ling
Published: November 2023

Small submersible drainage pumps discharge leaking water and rainwater in buildings. In an emergency (e.g., heavy rain or accident), monitoring the flow rate in advance is necessary to enable optimal operation, considering the point where the pump operates abnormally when the water level increases rapidly. In another, pump performance optimization is crucial for energy saving policy. Therefore, it is necessary to meet the challenges of submersible pump systems, including sustainability and pump efficiency. The final goal of this study is to develop an energy-saving, high-efficiency submersible drainage pump capable of responding to emergencies. In particular, this paper targeted the hydraulic performance improvement of a submersible drainage pump model. Before the development of driving mode-related technology capable of emergency response, we first tried to find a way to improve the performance characteristics of the existing submersible drainage pump. Rather than designing a new pump, we disassembled the current pump and reverse engineering. Then, numerical simulation was performed to analyze the flow characteristics and efficiency of the pump. Then, the pump test was carried out to obtain the performance and validated with numerical results. Results revealed that changing the cross-sectional shape of the impeller reduced the flow separation and enhanced velocity and pressure distributions. Also, it reduced the power and increased efficiency. Results also showed that the pump's efficiency increased to 5.56% at a discharge rate of 0.17 m3/min, and overall average efficiency increased to 6.53%. In addition, the submersible pump design method could be suitable for the optimized pump's impeller and casing numerically. This paper can provide insight and information on the design optimization of pumps.
Features of Plasma-Chemical Hydrogen Reduction of Volatile Silicon and Germanium Chlorides in rf-arc Discharge
Authors: Kornev Roman , Gornushkin Igor , Shabarova Lubov , Ermakov Artur , Mochalov Georgiy , Rekunov Nikita , Medov Vitaly , Chaschina Alena , Kalinina Alexandra
Published: November 2023

The processes of hydrogen reduction of silicon and germanium chlorides under the conditions of radio-frequency (40.68 MHz) counteracted arc discharge stabilized between two rod electrodes were investigated. The main gas-phase and solid products of plasma-chemical transformations were determined. Thermodynamic analysis of SiCl4 + H2 and GeCl4 + H2 systems was carried out. It is shown that under the implemented experimental conditions, equilibrium components of the products are established. The detected spectra of chemical activity were studied, which gave reason to assume that the molecular mechanism of the hydrogen reduction process is the main one. The impurity composition of gas-phase and solid reaction products was investigated. The possibility of single-stage production of high-purity Si and Ge mainly in the form of compact ingots, as well as high-purity chlorosilanes and trichlorogermane, was shown.
FPGA Implementation of Complex-Valued Neural Network for Polar-Represented Image Classification
Authors: AHMAD MARUF , Zhang Lei , Chowdhury Muhammad E. H.
Published: November 2023

This proposed research explores a novel approach to image classification by deploying a complex-valued neural network (CVNN) on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), specifically for classifying 2D images transformed into polar form. The aim of this research is to address the limitations of existing neural network models in terms of energy and resource efficiency, by exploring the potential of FPGA-based hardware acceleration in conjunction with advanced neural network architectures like CVNNs. The methodological innovation of this research lies in the Cartesian to polar transformation of 2D images, effectively reducing the input data volume required for neural network processing. Subsequent efforts focused on constructing a CVNN model optimized for FPGA implementation, emphasizing the enhancement of computational efficiency and overall performance. The experimental findings provide empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of the image classification system developed in this study. One of the developed models, CVNN_128, achieves an accuracy of 88.3% with an inference time of just 1.6ms and a power consumption of 4.66mW for the classification of the MNIST test dataset consists of 10,000 frames. While there is a slight concession in accuracy compared to recent FPGA implementations that achieve 94.43%, our model significantly excels in classification speed and power efficiency—surpassing existing models by more than a factor of 100. In conclusion, the paper demonstrates the substantial advantages of FPGA-implementation of CVNNs for image classification tasks, particularly in scenarios where speed, resource, and power consumption are critical. The study’s reproducible results and corresponding code are available on GitHub at the following link: https://github.com/mahmad2005/CVNNonFPGA
Metabolomic Changes in Plasma of Preterminal Stage of Rhesus Nonhuman Primates Exposed to Lethal Dose of Radiation
Authors: Carpenter Alana D. , Fatanmi Oluseyi O , Wise Stephen Y , Petrus Sarah A. , Tyburski John B. , Cheema Amrita K , Singh Vijay K
Published: November 2023

Ionizing radiation exposure is known to induce molecular and cellular injury, inflicting a cascade of potentially catastrophic events leading to tissue and organ damage. Metabolomic analysis allows for the identification and quantification of small molecules downstream of genomic changes induced by radiation exposure. We aimed to characterize metabolomic changes that underscore the prefinal stage of lethally irradiated rhesus nonhuman primates (NHPs). Peripheral blood was drawn at baseline, post-exposure as well as at the preterminal stage of NHPs (immediately prior to death in moribund NHPs), which did not survive exposure with 7.2 Gy total-body radiation (LD70/60). Herein, we analyzed global metabolomic changes using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) in plasma samples of NHPs collected at various timepoints in relation to irradiation. The overall goal was to identify metabolic shifts present immediately prior to death. Our findings, for the first time, show that radiation induced significant time dependent metabolic perturbations when compared to pre-irradiation samples, particularly in the glycerophospholipid metabolism and steroid hormone biosynthesis and metabolism pathways. These findings provide valuable insights for identifying biomarkers for lethality, which may be helpful for triage during a mass casualty scenario.
Fermat Principle, Ramsey Theory and Metamaterials
Authors: Frenkel Mark , Bormashenko Edward , Shoval Shraga
Published: November 2023

Re-interpretation of the Fermat principle governing propagation of light in media within the Ramsey Theory is suggested. Complete bi-colored graphs corresponding to the light propagation in media are considered. The vertices of the graphs correspond to the points of the real physical space, in which light sources or sensors are placed. Red links in the graphs correspond to the actual optical paths, emerging from the Fermat principle. A variety of optical events: refraction, reflection, etc. may be involved in the light propagation. Green links, in turn, denote the trial/virtual optical paths, which actually do not occur. The Ramsey Theorem states that within the graph containing six points, inevitably, actual or virtual optical cycle will be necessarily present. Implementation of the Ramsey Theorem to the light propagation in metamaterials is discussed. The Fermat Principle states that in metamaterials a light ray in going from point S to point P must traverse an optical path length L that is stationary with respect to variations of this path. Thus, bi-colored graphs built of links corresponding to maxima or minima of optical paths become possible. Graphs, comprising six vertices, inevitably will demonstrate optical cycles, built of the mono-colored links corresponding to the maxima or minima of the optical path. The notion of the “inverse graph” is introduced and discussed. The total number of triangles in the “direct” (source) and “inverse” Ramsey optical graphs is the same, Optical interpretation of the infinite Ramsey Theorem is suggested.
Clinical Efficacy and Metabolomics Modifications Induced by Polyphenol Compound Supplementation in the Treatment of Residual Dizziness Following Repositioning Maneuvers in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Authors: Casani Augusto Pietro , Albera Roberto , Piras Cristina , Albera Andrea , Noto Antonio , Ducci Nicola , Atzori Luigi , Lucisano Sergio , Mussap Michele , Fanos Vassilios
Published: November 2023

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) represents the most frequent cause of peripheral vertigo. In most cases it is successfully treated by canalith repositioning procedure (CRP), but it is often followed by a continuous lightheadedness in absence of vertigo or nystagmus (residual dizziness, RD). Our aim is to describe the clinical effectiveness and the urine metabolomics profile treating these patients by a polyphenol compound supplementation. We enrolled 30 patients reporting RD after BPPV successfully treated using CRP. A supplementation with a Polyphenol compound was administered for 60 days, and patients were evaluated after 30 and 60 days of treatment by a self-administered questionnaires (Visual Analog Scales for Dizziness and Nausea, Dizziness Handicap Inventory, DHI) and by urine metabolomics analysis performed by 1H-NMR spectroscopy and multivariate followed by univariate analysis. Most patients reported an excellent or good efficacy of RD with a significant decrease for VAS and DHI values. The metabolomics analysis identified six significant metabolites related to the treatment: 1-methylnicotinamide, anserine, Hippurate, lysine, methyl succinate, and urea indicating an inflammatory activities and antioxidant properties of the polyphenol compound. These preliminary data suggest that supplementation with a polyphenol compound cold induces some metabolic changes that can help recover RD. However, the future steps will require confirmation with a more significant cohort of patients and an extension of the metabolomic evaluation to other problems concerning the different clinical aspects of BPPV, such as the high relapse found in a high percentage of patients.
Evolution of Tooth Wear Mechanisms during the Bandsawing of Cr12MoV with a Bimetal Bandsaw Blade
Authors: Jia Yuzhen , Wu Jigang , Chen Yuqiang , Chen Bing
Published: November 2023

Bandsaw blades are typical band-shaped cutting tools characterized by a low stiffness and micro-level cutting depth, resulting in distinct wear mechanisms compared to rigid cutting tools. In this study, the evolution of bandsaw tooth wear mechanisms during the bandsawing of Cr12MoV cold-working steel was investigated. The tool life was divided into two stages according to the tooth wear mechanism: a rapid wear stage (Stage I) and a homogeneous wear stage (Stage II). In Stage I, the wear mechanism was dominated by chipping, although multiple wear mechanisms were found because of the relatively poor manufacturing tolerance compared to rigid cutting tools, resulting in remarkable differences between the cutting depths of the individual teeth. In Stage II, abrasive and adhesive wear were the primary wear mechanisms instead of chipping, due to the decreased width and setting magnitude tolerance after Stage I. Furthermore, methods for increasing the bandsaw performance were proposed based on the tooth wear mechanisms.
Not a Silent Invasion: The Reaction of European Naturalists to the Spread of Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) in the 19th—Early 20th Century
Authors: Vinarski Maxim V.
Published: November 2023

The case of naturalization of the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas), in coun-tries lying beyond its native Ponto-Caspian range is remarkable as one of the first instances, when the scientific community as early as the mid-19th century was fully aware of the non-indigenous status of a particular species as well as of the need for the study and monitoring of this process. Based on a study of contemporary sources, I reconstruct the early response of the European naturalists (including those that today would be called ‘citizen scientist’) to the invasion of Dreissena and describe their attitudes to the problem, including the divergence of opinion about the origin and the means of dispersal of this bivalve species. An analysis of pa-pers of the English, French, German, and Russian authors published between 1774 and 1920 has shown that the invasion of D. polymorpha was by no means ‘silent’; quite opposite, it provoked an immediate reaction of naturalists, and the scientific agenda for the study of the new invader was proposed in England as early as 1838
The effect of interaction of types and dosages of liquid organic fertilizer on eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) growth and outcome
Authors: Junaidi Junaidi , Hadiyanti Nugraheni , Turrohmah Nur Ulfa , Silvyana Windy
Published: November 2023

The use of liquid organic fertilizer (POC) is expected to improve soil physical, chemical and biological fertility. Soil fertility increases, maximum plant growth will increase production both in quality and quantity. This study aims to determine the effect of the interaction between the type of treatment and the dose of POC on the growth and production of eggplant. This study was a factorial experiment consisting of two factors, namely POC types consisting of 2 levels: POC kitchen waste (P1); Banana weevil POC (P2) and POC doses consisting of 4 levels: without POC (D0); 10 ml/tan (D1); 20 ml/tan (D2); 30 ml/tan (D3) with randomization according to a completely randomized design (CRD). Observations were made when the eggplant plants were 10 HST with an interval of 10 days until the plants were 40 days old. The parameters observed were plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter, fruit length per plant, fruit diameter, number of fruit per plant, and fruit weight per plant. Observational data were analyzed using variance, if the results were significantly different it was continued with the smallest significant difference test (LSD) at the 5% level. The results showed that there was no significant interaction between the type of treatment and the dose of POC on all observed parameters. The various POC treatments significantly affected the parameters of plant height and number of leaves at all observed ages, stem diameters at 20 30, 40 DAP, and fruit weight per plant. POC dose treatment significantly affected the parameters of plant height and number of leaves at all ages of observation, stem diameter at 20, 30, and 40 DAP, number of fruit and fruit weight of the plants. Giving banana weevil POC resulted in better eggplant growth and production than kitchen waste POC. POC dose of 30 ml/plant resulted in the best eggplant growth and production. Because the results of the study showed that the effect of POC dose was still linear (the higher the POC dose, the higher the production).
Soil erosion risk assessment in Moridhal watershed of Assam, India using Universal Soil Loss Equation and GIS
Authors: Bharteey Prem Kumar , Deka Bipul , Patgiri D. K. , Dutta Marami , Saikia Rituparna
Published: November 2023

Soil erosion is one of the major factors affecting sustainability of agricultural production in watershed. The objective of this paper is to estimate soil loss using the universal soil loss equation (USLE) model and GIS and to suggest soil conservation practices in Moridhal watershed. Soil loss was estimated by USLE. In addition, measurements of randomly selected soil and water conservation structures were done at four physiographic units of watershed. The erodibility of the studied soils was assessed by computing various erodibility indices like clay ratio, silt clay ratio, modified clay ratio, dispersion ratio, erosion ratio and erosion index. The soil loss of watershed was varied from very slight to very severe (range 0.87-67.77 t ha-1 yr-1). Among the physiographic units, the soil loss in the upper piedmont plain area was moderately severe to very severe with a value varying from 19.9-67.8 t ha-1 yr-1. The dispersion ratio of the soils varied from 0.06 to 1.18. It was observed that 48.82 per cent of the total studied soil samples had dispersion ratio values above 0.15 which may be considered as erodible. The erosion ratio and erosion index of studied soils varied from varied from 0.01-0.55 and 0.03-0.71, respectively. Based on the study it was found that the soils in different physiographic units are suffering from varying degree of soil erosion. The upper piedmont plain areas of the watershed require management practices which could improve the erosion status and soil productivity. The results of soil loss obtained from the study could be effectively used by the planners, watershed managers and policy makers to formulate site specific conservation plans in order to minimize soil loss for sustaining productivity.
Analysis of land use/cover changes using the concepts of ecosystem services for the ecological security assessment of Lavasanat watershed (Tehran, Iran)
Authors: Moarrab Yasser , Novin Vahid , Salehi Esmaeil
Published: November 2023

Recent years have seen growing interest in the use of the concepts of ecosystem services in ecological security assessments. This study analyzed the temporal-spatial changes of land use/cover in Lavasanat watershed, Tehran, Iran, between the years 2000 and 2040 under different land-use change scenarios, and assessed the consequent change in ecological security in terms of ecosystem services (water yield) under different climate scenarios. First, the LULC map of the watershed for the 20 year period between 2000 and 2020 was generated. Then, the area’s LULC changes from 2020 to 2040 were predicted based on the assumption of the continuation of current conditions, which was named Scenario S1. Next, three other scenarios named S2, S3, and S4, representing the pessimistic, realistic, and optimistic management of the situation were defined based on S1. Three climate scenarios named B1, N and M were also defined for use in the assessments. For ecological security assessments, temporal and spatial changes of water yield services for the years 2000, 2010 and 2020 were simulated based on the area’s climate data and LULC changes. The results were then used to estimate the water yield of the entire watershed and its residential areas by 2040 in the four defined land-use/cover scenarios (S1, S2, S3, and S4) and three climate scenarios (B1, N, and M). The results showed a 1.92 times increase in the water yield of the watershed’s residential areas from 2000 to 2020. Among the scenarios defined for Lavasanat watershed, the worst scenario (with the highest water yield) was S2N with a water yield of 37639293.581m3 in the entire watershed and 35091082.311m3 in the residential areas, and the best scenario (with the lowest water yield) was S4M with a water yield of 8329365.079m3 in the entire watershed and 7353006.022m3 in the residential areas. The results of all of the four land-use/cover scenarios under all three climate scenarios showed an increase in water yield, the expansion of residential areas, and the loss of ecologically valuable lands in the watershed by 2040.
Essential components of an effective transition from paediatric to adult neurologist care for adolescents with Duchenne muscular dystrophy; a consensus derived using the Delphi methodology in Eastern Europe, Greece and Israel
Authors: Molnar Maria Judit , Szabó Léna , Vladacenco Oana Aurelia , Cobzaru Ana Maria , Dor Talya , Dori Amir , Papadimas Georgios , Juříková Lenka , Litvinenko Ivan , Tournev Ivailo , Dixon Craig
Published: November 2023

Background
An increasing number of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) now have access to improved standard of care and disease modifying treatments, which improve the clinical course of DMD and extend life expectancy beyond 30 years of age. A key issue for adolescent DMD patients is the transition from paediatric- to adult-oriented healthcare. Adolescents and adults with DMD have unique but highly complex healthcare needs associated with long-term steroid use, orthopaedic, respiratory, cardiac, psychological, and gastrointestinal problems meaning that a comprehensive transition process is required. A sub-optimal transition into adult care can have disruptive and deleterious consequences for a patient’s long-term care. This paper details the results of a consensus amongst clinicians on transitioning adolescent DMD patients from paediatric to adult neurologists that can act as a guide to best practice to ensure patients have continuous comprehensive care at every stage of their journey. The consensus was derived using the Delphi methodology. Fifty-three statements were developed by a Steering Group (the authors of this paper) covering seven topics: Define the goals of transition, Preparing the patient, carers/parents and the adult centre, The transition process at the paediatric centre, The multidisciplinary transition summary – Principles, The multidisciplinary transition summary – Content, First visit in the adult centre, Evaluation of transition. The statements were shared with paediatric and adult neurologists across Central Eastern Europe (CEE) as a survey requesting their level of agreement with each statement.
Results
Data from 60 responders (54 full responses and six partial responses) were included in the data set analysis. A consensus was agreed across 100% of the statements.
Conclusions
It is hoped that the findings of this survey which sets out agreed best practice statements, and the transfer template documents developed, will be widely used and so facilitate an effective transition from paediatric to adult care for adolescents with DMD.
Variants in the FLT4 and HYDIN genes are related to the susceptibility of atrial septal defects in southwest Han people of China
Authors: Jin Ye , Zhao Miao , Guo Qiuzhe , Zhao Wanyu , Lei Min , Zhang Yifei , Zhang Yunhan , Shen Yan , Lin keqin , yang Zhaoqing , chu Jiayou , Sun Hao , luo Zhiling
Published: November 2023

Background :
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common form of nonsyndromic congenital heart disease. Although several genes related to ASD have been found, the genetic factors of ASD remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between 10 candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and sporadic atrial septal defects.
Methods:
Based on the results of 34 individual whole exome sequences, 10 candidate SNPs were selected. In total, 489 ASD samples and 420 normal samples were collected. The 10 SNPs in the case group and the control group were identified through Snapshot genotyping technology. The χ2-test and unconditional regression model were used to evaluate the relationship between ASD and each candidate SNP. Haploview software was used to perform linkage disequilibrium and haplotype analysis.
Results:
The χ2 results showed that the FLT4 rs383985 (P = 0.003, OR = 1.115–1.773), HYDIN rs7198975(P = 0.04621, OR = 1.003–1.461), and HYDIN rs1774266 (P = 0.04621, OR = 1.003–1.461) alleles were significantly different between the control group and the case group (P < 0.05). Only the association with the FLT4 polymorphism was statistically significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons.
Conclusion:
These findings suggest that a possible molecular pathogenesis associated with sporadic ASD is worth exploring in future studies.
MiRNAs from the Dlk1-Dio3 locus and miR-224/452 cluster contribute to glioblastoma tumor heterogeneity
Authors: Smith Christopher M. , Catchpoole Daniel , Hutvagner Gyorgy
Published: November 2023

Glioblastoma is one of the most common and aggressive brain tumors and has seen few improvements in patient outcomes. Inter-tumor heterogeneity between tumors of different patients as well as intra-tumor heterogeneity of cells within the same tumor challenge the development of effective drugs. MiRNAs play an essential role throughout the developing brain and regulate many key genes involved in oncogenesis, yet their role in driving many of the processes underlying tumor heterogeneity remain unclear. In this study, we highlight miRNAs from the Dlk1-Dio3 and miR-224/452 clusters which may be expressed cell autonomously and have expression that is associated with cell state genes in glioblastoma, most prominently in neural progenitor-like and mesenchymal-like states respectively. These findings implicate these miRNA clusters as potential regulators of glioblastoma intra-tumoral heterogeneity and may serve as valuable biomarkers for cell state identification.
Subsurface Structures Around the Subducting Seamount Illuminated by Local Earthquakes at the Off-Ibaraki Region, Southern Japan Trench
Authors: Yoneshima Shinji , Mochizuki Kimihiro , Yamada Tomoaki , Shinohara Masanao
Published: November 2023

The off-Ibaraki region is a convergent margin at which a seamount subducts. An intensive event location was performed around the subducting seamount to reveal the regional seismotectonics of this region. By applying a migration-based event location to an Ocean Bottom Seismic network record of both P- and S-waves, over 20,000 events were determined in the off-Ibaraki region below ~ M4. The seismicity showed clear spatiotemporal patterns enough to identify the seismicity changes and geometry of the interface. At the updip side, the shallow tectonic tremors and earthquakes are shown to be spatially complementary bounded by an updip limit of the seismogenic zone. At the downdip side, a semicircular low-seismicity zone was identified, which is possibly a rupture area of the Mw7.9 event. The event depth profile exhibited a gently sloped planar downdip interface subparallel to the subducting slab. This plane appears to be stably active from 2008 to 2011. Comparison with the active source seismic survey profiles exhibits that this planar downdip interface is several kilometers deeper than the top of the oceanic crust. After the Mw7.9 event, a high-angle downdip seismic interface was activated above the planar interface. Further, below the planar downdip interface, broadly scattered events occurred with a swarm manner. We successfully illuminated the complicated subsurface structures around the subducting seamount. It is suggested that most of the events occur along or below the plate interface as the top of the oceanic crust.
Rapid summer Russian Arctic sea-ice loss enhances the risk of recent Eastern Siberian wildfires
Authors: Luo Binhe , Luo Dehai , Dai Aiguo , Xiao Cunde , Simmonds Ian , Hanna Edward , Overland James , Shi Jiaqi , Yao Yao , Duan Wansuo , Liu Yimin , Zhang Qiang , Xu Xiyan , Diao Yina , Jiang Zhina , Gong Tingting
Published: November 2023

In recent decades wildfires have occurred frequently over eastern Siberia, which favors increased atmospheric carbon dioxide and air pollution. However, it is not well understood what factors have contributed to the recent increase in these wildfires. Here, we analyzed meteorological and satellite data to show that background Arctic warming related to summer Russian Arctic sea-ice decline can account for about 84% of the increase in eastern Siberian wildfires during 2004-2021 with the remaining 16% related to internal atmospheric variability associated with changes in Siberian blocking events.
We further demonstrate that Siberian blocking events occur at higher latitudes, are more persistent and have larger zonal scales over 2004-2021 than during 1979-2003 due to reduced meridional potential vorticity gradients caused by background Arctic warming during the latter period. These changes lead to more persistent, widespread and intense wildfires and their poleward migation, thus contributing to the recent increases in eastern Siberian wildfires.
Progressive degeneration in a new Drosophila model of Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 7
Authors: Sujkowski Alyson L. , Ranxhi Bedri , Prifti Matthew V. , Alam Nadir , Todi Sokol V. , Tsou Wei-Ling
Published: November 2023

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resulting from abnormal expansion of polyglutamine (polyQ) in its disease protein, ataxin-7 (ATXN7). ATXN7 is part of Spt-Ada-Gcn5 acetyltransferase (SAGA), an evolutionarily conserved transcriptional coactivation complex with critical roles in chromatin remodeling, cell signaling, neurodifferentiation, mitochondrial health and autophagy. SCA7 is dominantly inherited and characterized by genetic anticipation and high repeat-length instability. Patients with SCA7 experience progressive ataxia, atrophy, spasticity, and blindness. There is currently no cure for SCA7, and therapies are aimed at alleviating symptoms to increase quality of life. Here, we report novel Drosophila lines of SCA7 with polyQ repeats in wild-type and human disease patient range. We find that ATXN7 expression has age-and polyQ repeat length-dependent reduction in survival and retinal instability, concomitant with increased ATXN7 protein aggregation. These new lines will provide important insight on disease progression that can be used in the future to identify therapeutic targets for SCA7 patients.
Antibiotic alters host’s gut microbiota, fertility and antimicrobial peptide gene expression vis-à-vis ampicillin treatment on model organism Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Singh Asem Sanjit , Pathak Dhruv , Devi Manoharmayum Shaya , Anifowoshe Abass Toba , Nongthomba Upendra
Published: November 2023

Antibiotics are commonly used to treat infectious diseases; however, persistence is often expressed by the pathogenic bacteria and their long term relative effect on the host have been neglected. The present study investigated the impact of antibiotics in gut microbiota (GM) and metabolism of host. The effect of ampicillin antibiotics on GM of Drosophila melanogaster was analysed through deep sequencing of 16S rRNA amplicon gene. The dominant phyla consisted of Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, Chloroflexi, Euryarchaeota, Acedobacteria, Verrucomicrobia and Cyanobacteria. It was found that the composition of GM was significantly altered on administration of antibiotics. On Antibiotic treatments, there were decline in relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, while there were increase in relative abundance of Chlorophyta and Bacteroidota. High abundance of 14 genera viz., Wolbachia, Lactobacillus, Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Thiolamprovum, Pseudoalteromonas, Vibrio, Romboutsia, Staphylococcus, Alteromonas, Clostridium, Lysinibacillus, Litoricola and Cellulophaga were significant (p ≤ 0.05) upon antibiotic treatment. Particularly, the abundance of Acetobacter was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) declined but increased for Wolbachia. Further, a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in Wolbachia endosymbiont of D. melanogaster, Wolbachia endosymbiont of Curculio okumai and Wolbachia pipientis and a decrease in the Acinetobacter sp. was observed. We observed increase in functional capacity for biosynthesis of certain nucleotides and the enzyme activities. Further, the decrease in antimicrobial peptide production in the treated group and potential effects on the host's defense mechanisms was observed. This study helps shed light on an often-overlooked dimension, namely the persistence of antibiotics' effects on the host.
Strategic Reasoning Online: Experiments on the Beauty Contest
Authors: Engelhardt Robin , Galeazzi Paolo
Published: November 2023

We investigate online strategic reasoning by examining the behavior of 296 subjects playing the iterated beauty contest game on Amazon Mechanical Turk. Our findings are substantially different from the behaviors observed in laboratory and newspaper experiments reported in the literature. In general, we do not find any strong evidence in favor of higher-order reasoning in the first round as well as in the following iterations of the game, which puts into question the presence of any strategic thinking among the vast majority of our subjects.
Prolonged persistence of mutagenic DNA lesions in stem cells
Authors: Campbell Peter , Chapman Michael Spencer , Mitchell Emily , Yoshida Kenichi , Williams Nicholas , Fabre Margarete , Ranzoni Anna Maria , Robinson Philip , Wilk Christian Matthias , Boettcher Steffen , Mahbubani Krishna , Saeb-Parsy Kourosh , Gowers Kate , Janes Sam , Ng Stanley , Hoare Matthew , Green Anthony , Vassiliou George , Cvejic Ana , Manz Markus , Laurenti Elisa , Stratton Michael , Nangalia Jyoti , Martincorena Inigo , Coorens Tim
Published: November 2023

DNA suffers continual damage leaving a cell with thousands of individual DNA lesions at any given moment1–3. The efficiency of DNA repair means that most known classes of lesion have a half-life of minutes to hours3,4, but whether some DNA damage can persist for longer durations remains unknown. Here, using high-resolution phylogenetic trees from 89 donors, we identified mutations arising from 832 DNA lesions that persisted across multiple cell cycles in normal human stem cells from blood, liver and bronchial epithelium5–12. Persistent DNA lesions occurred at increased rates, with distinctive mutational signatures, in donors exposed to tobacco or chemotherapy, suggesting that they can arise from exogenous mutagens. In haematopoietic stem cells, persistent DNA lesions, likely from endogenous sources, generated a characteristic mutational signature, so-called SBS1913; occurred steadily throughout life, including in utero; and endured for 1.5 years on average, with 15% lasting 3+ years. We estimate that a haematopoietic stem cell has, on average, ~4-5 such lesions at any moment in time, half of which will generate a mutation with each cell cycle. Overall, 16% of mutations in blood cells are attributable to SBS19, and similar proportions of driver mutations in blood cancers exhibit this signature. These data imply the existence of a family of DNA lesions, arising from both endogenous and exogenous mutagens, present in low numbers per genome but persisting for months to years, that can generate sizable fractions of cells’ mutation burdens.
Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of Docetaxel-Trastuzumab-Pertuzumab (DTP) with Standard 4-Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide (AC)-Taxan-Trastuzumab-Pertuzumab in Neoadjuvant Treatment of Locally Advanced Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER-2) Positive Breast Cancer: a Turk Oncology Group (TOG) study.
Authors: Bardakci Murat , Karakas Hilal , Bayram Dogan , Avci Nilufer , Kitapli Sait , Ozen Mirac , Aslan Ferit , Koseoglu Caglar , Kadioglu Ahmet , Onur Ilknur , Sakalar Teoman , Buyuksimsek Mahmut , Alkan Ali , Ergun Yakup , Kaya Ali , Bilgin Burak , Yalcin Bulent
Published: November 2023

Introduction:Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression is a characteristic observed in 18%–20% of all breast cancer cases. 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. One of the primary considerations in the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer is the need for regimens that minimize cardiac toxicity while not compromising survival outcomes. This issue continues to be a topic of discussion within the medical community.
Methods:Retrospectively analyzed were the data of HER2-positive breast cancer patients, aged ≤65 years, with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥50% who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and underwent surgery at 10 different oncology centers in Türkiye between October 2016 and December 2022.
Results: A total of 142 patients were included in the study. The treatment arms were divided into 4 to 6 cycles of docetaxel/trastuzumab/pertuzumab (DTP) for arm A, 4 cycles of adriamycin/cyclophosphamide (AC) 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 mean age of the patients in arm A was 53 years (±11, SD), while in arm B it was 48 years (±11, SD). The median follow-up of all of the patients was 19.9 months (95% CI: 17.5–22.3). Median disease-free survival (DFS) was not reached in either treatment arm. 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 (pCR) rates were similar in both treatment arms, at 50.0% and 51.1%, respectively (p = 0.90). During the treatment period, the LVEF decline was seen in 3 patients (6%) in arm A and 11 patients (12%) in arm B, but the difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.37). Although the LVEF decreases were asymptomatic in both treatment arms, the rate of LVEF decrease was between 11% and 20% in 2 patients (2.2%) in arm B.
Discussion/Conclusion: This study supports shortened neoadjuvant treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, a common practice in some clinics. Given the similar DFS and pCR rates between DTP and AC-taxan/TPtreatments, DTP may avoid the severe toxicities associated with standard combined chemotherapy regimens.
Long-Term Outcomes of S-1 and Oxaliplatin Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy with Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Lymph Node Dissection for Rectal Cancer
Authors: Morohashi Hajime , Sakamoto Yoshiyuki , Miura Takuya , Kagiya Takuji , Sato Kentaro , Tsutsumi Shinji , Takahashi Seiji , Nakayama Yoshihito , Tamba Hiroaki , Matsumoto Shuntaro , Kasai Daiki , Hakamada Kenichi
Published: November 2023

Purpose.
Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for rectal cancer is limited by its harmful side effects and its insufficient benefit on lateral lymph node metastases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of S-1 and oxaliplatin with total mesorectal excision (TME) and lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) without radiation for rectal cancer.
Methods.
Fifty-two patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) followed by TME and LLND in one of four study hospitals were evaluated. The primary endpoint was to determine the cumulative local recurrence rate and other long-term outcomes including the local recurrence rate, relapse-free survival, and overall survival. Expected post-NAC and surgical outcomes were prospectively analyzed.
Results.
The overall recurrence rate was 15.4%, with eight patients developing distant recurrences. The local recurrence rate was 7.7% (n = 4). Among the 4 patients with local recurrence, 3 (5.8%) patients had central pelvis recurrence, and 1 (1.9%) patient had lateral pelvis recurrence. The 3-year survival rate was 98.1%, and the 3-year relapse-free survival rate was 84.6%. The risk factors for local recurrence were mucinous carcinoma and ineligibility for R0 resection. Pathological mesorectal lymph node metastasis and local recurrence were independent risk factors of poor survival.
Conclusions.
Preoperative chemotherapy with TME and LLND is useful for avoiding radiation-related adverse events and improving prognosis in rectal cancer.
SARS-CoV-2 transmission in a highly vulnerable population of Brazil: results from a household longitudinal study
Authors: Coelho Lara , Luz Paula , Pires Débora , Jalil Emilia , Perazzo Hugo , Torres Thiago , CARDOSO SANDRA , Peixoto Eduardo , Nazer Sandro , Massad Eduardo , de Carvalho Luiz Max , Requia Weeberb , Motta Fernando , Siqueira Marilda , Vasconcelos Ana Tereza , Fonseca Guilherme da , Cavalcante Liliane , Costa Carlos , Amancio Rodrigo , Villela Daniel , Pereira Tiago , Goedert Guilherme , Santos Cleber , Rodrigues Nadia , Bormann Breno Augusto , Csillag Daniel , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Veloso Valdilea , Struchiner Claudio
Published: November 2023

We estimated within/extra-household SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and associated factors in a household cohort study in one of the most vulnerable neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro city. Individuals ≥1 years-old with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 in the past 30 days (index cases) and eligible household contacts were enrolled (Nov/2020-Dec/2021) and followed at 14 and 28 days. RT-PCR testing, COVID-19 symptoms, and SARS-CoV-2 serologies were ascertained in all visits. Chain binomial household transmission models were fitted using data from 2,024 individuals (593 households). Extra-household infection risk was 74.2% (95% credible interval [CrI] 70.3 - 77.8), while within-household infection risk was 11.4% (95%CrI 5.7 - 17.2). Vaccination reduced both within/extra-household infection risks. Within-household infection risk was higher among participants aged 10-19 years, from overcrowded households, and with low family income. Contrastingly, extra-household infection risk was higher among participants aged 20-29 years, unemployed, and public transportation users.
Ultrasound-triggered immunogenic nanotherapeutics for optimizing osteosarcoma therapy by enhancement of tumor microenvironment responsive delivery
Authors: Li Zihua , Liu Kaiyuan , Ye Zhanhui , Chen Qingjing , Song Yixian , Lu Hengli , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yiwei , Ma Xiaoyi , Zan Pengfei , Yang Yunfeng , Shang Anquan
Published: November 2023

In osteosarcoma, the efficacy of immune-checkpoint blockade immunotherapy is hindered by low immunogenicity and limited T-cell infiltration and thus, triggering robust antitumor immune responses has become a pivotal goal in cancer therapy. Herein, we design a novel approach to promote immune responses by combining immune checkpoint therapy with a newly developed nanoplatform for sonodynamic therapy. The study involved the attachment of Ce6 photosensitizer to phenylboronic acid -based nanoparticles named Ce6 NPs, which were encapsulated in a hydrogel along with anti-PD-1. As a result, Ce6 NPs@Gel showed active inhibiting tumors in vivo, especially in acidic microenvironments. Upon ultrasound stimulation, the nanoparticles released a large amount of oxygen and damage-associated molecular patterns, triggering immunogenic cell death and enhancing the immunotherapeutic response. This led to an increase in tumor immunogenicity and dendritic cell maturation, ultimately the tumor microenvironment become more infiltrated with cytotoxic T lymphocytes. The Ce6 NPs@Gel formulation demonstrated a significant promotion of immune response and inhibition of tumor growth in mouse models with tumors. This study shows that Ce6 NPs@Gel presents a promising strategy for simultaneous SDT and enhanced immunotherapy against tumors, with potential for clinical translation.
Comprehensive analysis of MAPK gene family in Gossypium hirsutum and functional characterization of GhMPK31 in regulating defense response to insect
Authors: Wang Fuqiu , Liang Sijia , Wang Guanying , Wang Qiongqiong , Xu Zhongping , Li Bo , Fu Chunyang , Fan Yibo , Hu Tianyu , Alariqi Muna , Hussain Amjad , Cao Jinglin Hubei Province , Zhang Xianlong , Jin Shuangxia
Published: November 2023

Mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are a crucial class of protein kinases, which play essential role in various biological processes in plants. Upland cotton (G. hirsutum) is the most widely cultivated cotton species with high economic value. To gain a better understanding of the role of the MAPK gene family, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of MAPK gene family in cotton. In this study, a total of 55 GhMPK genes were identified from the whole genome of G. hirsutum. Through an investigation of the expression patterns under diverse stress conditions, we discovered that the majority of GhMPK family members demonstrated robust responses to abiotic stress, pathogen stress, and pest stress. Furthermore, the overexpression of GhMPK31 in cotton leaves led to a hypersensitive response (HR)-like cell death phenotype and impaired the defense capability of cotton against herbivorous insects. Transcriptome and metabolomics data analysis showed that overexpression of GhMPK31 enhanced the expression of H2O2-related genes and reduced the accumulation of defensive related metabolites. The direct evidence of GhMPK31 interacting with GhRBOHB (H2O2 generating protein) were found by Y2H, BiFC and LCI. Therefore, we propose that the increase of H2O2 content caused by overexpression of GhMPK31 resulted in HR-like cell death in cotton leaves while reducing the accumulation of defensive metabolites, ultimately leading to a decrease in the defense ability of cotton against herbivorous insects. This study provides valuable insights into the function of MAPK genes in plant resistance to herbivorous insects.
Hygrothermal behavior of carbon fiber fabric reinforced vinylester resin composite structures
Authors: Gao Jincheng , Li Xu , Wei Jianhui , Zhang Yuheng , Wang Jihui , Ding Anxin
Published: November 2023

The hygrothermal aging of vinylester resin and its carbon fiber fabric reinforced composite structures are examined here, including moisture absorption and the resulting degradation of mechanical properties. The prepared resin casting and CFRP specimens were immersed into the deionized water and artificial seawater, respectively, at a temperature of 70°C, and weighed regularly along with the observation of surface morphologies using SEM and identification of variations in functional groups using FTIR spectrometer. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of resin and CFRP were checked periodically. The results from gravimetric analysis show that resin immersed in deionized water behaves in non-Fickian diffusion due to strong hydrolysis, while CFRP obeys approximately the Fickian diffusion because of the embedded carbon fiber inhibiting the hydrolysis. The examination of mechanical properties for CFRP reveals that the interlaminar shear strength is influenced by the moisture absorption, with a maximum reduction of 13.5%.