bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Archaeometric Study of Lead Glazed Medieval Ceramics (13th–14th Century) from Santarém, Portugal
Authors: Vieira Ferreira Luis Filipe , Casimiro Tania Manuel , Boavida Carlos , Costa Pereira Manuel Francisco , Ferreira Machado Isabel Luisa
Published: March 2024

The ceramic sherds from approximately 20 samples of lead-glazed tableware, recovered from diverse archaeological sites, including three repurposed storage pits transformed into dumpsters within the medieval city of Santarém (13th-14th century), underwent a meticulous examination. This investigation utilized techniques such as micro-Raman, ground state diffuse reflectance absorption, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopies, in addition to X-ray diffraction and stereomicroscopy. A parallel study was conducted on contemporaneous European ceramics (glazed sherds) sourced from archaeological sites dating back to the 13th-15th centuries in Saintonge (France), Ardenne, Zomergem, and Bruges (Belgium), as well as Surrey-Hampshire, Kingston, and Cheam (England). The colour of the ceramic bodies is predominantly white or whitish, with a few exhibiting a vivid red hue. Ceramic sherds with a light paste composition were likely crafted using kaolin clays as raw materials. Analyses of fabric, mineralogical, and elemental composition of the sherds suggest that the majority of Santarém's glazed ceramics were locally or regionally produced, potentially derived from a Pliocene kaolin-rich sand formation. However, this conclusion is not supported by the absence of discovered lead glaze kilns or workshops in Santarém for the late Middle Ages. A distinctive feature from the European workshop ceramics lies in the quartz temper content and fabric.
Can Tumour Antigens Provide Diagnostic Biomarkers for Early-Stage Non-small Cell Lung Cancer?
Authors: Mohamed Eithar , Fletcher Daniel , Hart Simon , Guinn Barbara-ann
Published: March 2024

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality globally. Pulmonary nodules are one of the risk factors and their discovery rate has been increasing. Based on the nodule size and growth rate, their malignancy propensity is determined; however, it is very challenging to distinguish between benign and cancerous nodules. Many tumour-associated antigens (TAA) have been studied as blood biomarkers for lung cancer, most commonly the Cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA 21-1), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC Ag), carbohydrate antigen (CA19-9) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). Due to their low sensitivity, TAAs are not recommended as tools for the early detection of lung cancer. However, cancer testis antigens (CTAs) are highly specific for carcinomas but their expression is more commonly associated with advanced stages of cancer and poor prognosis. Despite the fact that TAAs may provide useful insights for the diagnosis and prognosis of early lung cancer, their potential to do so has yet to be demonstrated.
Exploring the Role of Transition Metal Complexes in Artistic Coloration through a Bottom-Up Scientific Approach
Authors: Coia Alexandra Sheng , Ruddick Jackson , Kuang Olivia Shiqi , Wang Li-Qiong
Published: March 2024

Transition metal complexes have historically played a pivotal role in creating vibrant pigments utilized across artistic mediums such as ceramics, paintings, and glass mosaics. Despite their extensive historical use, our understanding of the mechanisms governing transition metal complex behavior has predominantly emerged in recent times, leaving numerous aspects of this process ripe for exploration. These complexes exhibit striking color variations under diverse conditions when employed in pigment formulations. This review utilizes a bottom-up scientific approach, spanning from microscopic to macroscopic scales, to unravel the molecular origins of the colors generated by transition metal complexes in pigments and ceramic glazes. Advanced spectroscopy techniques and computational chemistry play pivotal roles in this endeavor, highlighting the significance of understanding and utilizing analytical data effectively, with careful consideration of each technique's specific application. Furthermore, the review investigates the influence of processing conditions on color variations, providing valuable insights for artists and manufacturers aiming to enhance the precision and quality of their creations while mitigating environmental impact.
Exploring Trends in Neonatal Mortality among Infants ≤ 32 weeks Gestational Age at Birth in Latin America and the Caribbean units using the EpicLatino Network Database Compared to Canadian Neonatal Network 2022
Authors: Hoyos Angela , Salas Ariel , Osiovich Horacio , Fajardo Carlos , Baez Martha , Monterrosa Luis , Villegas Alvarez Carolina , Aguinaga Fernando , Martinini Maria Ines
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Parameters used for neonatal mortality calculation vary among publications. Mortality in < 33 weeks gestational age at birth display global variations across different healthcare units. Objective: This study aims to explore trends in neonatal mortality among infants born preterm in the different units in Latin America and the Caribbean utilizing the EpicLatino Network Database in comparison to Canadian Neonatal Network (CNN) 2022. Materials and Methods: This study focused on an eight-year period, with a particular attention to mortality rates during the pre-pandemic (2015-2019) and pandemic/post pandemic (2020-2022) periods. Survival rates from CNN 2022 were included in the comparison analysis. Logistic regression analysis was confined to the 2020-2022 period. Adjustments were made for factors including gestational age, small for gestational age (SGA), Snape II score, inborn/outborn status, and center. As major malformations could account for mortality differences among units. The incidence of major congenital malformations, as defined by CNN, was compared among deceased patients. Results: A total of 15,454 records from 2015-2019 and 10,711 records from 2020-2022 were scrutinized. Overall, there were no significant differences in mortality rates between the two time periods (p=0.22). Moreover, the originating unit during the 2020-2022 period significantly influenced all statistical computations. Conclusions: Survival rates among infants < 26 weeks of gestation in Latin America and the Caribbean are on an upward trajectory, with the healthcare unit playing a pivotal role in this outcome within the EpicLatino database. Major malformations do not seem to be a significant contributing factor. These findings underscore the imperative of implementing quality improvement initiatives to elevate neonatal care standards in Latin America and the Caribbean.
A Long-Term Sequence in Southern Carpathians (Romania): Seismicity Characterization
Authors: Chircea Andreea , Radulian Mircea , Enescu Bogdan , Popa Mihaela , Dinescu Raluca
Published: March 2024

Two strongly curved areas of the Carpathians in Romania are earthquake-prone: Vrancea - in the South-Eastern Carpathians, and Danubian – in the western edge of the Southern Carpathians. By far the highest seismicity episode in 2023 was recorded in the Southern Carpathians, near Targu Jiu city, of more than 4000 earthquakes. A first ML 5.2 mainshock was recorded on 13 February, followed by a second one, ML 5.7, on 14 February. Our purpose is to provide a first analysis of this sequence in order to explain its extent and unusual development, in time. The possible role of fluids in the middle crust, is discussed in connection with the rather unusual character of the space-time distribution of aftershocks. A large and high-quality dataset is provided by the dense array of seismic stations which has been gradually improved by adding new stations in the epicentral area. The thorough revision of the phase picking and location reveals a few interesting and intriguing features of seismicity that still remain worthy to be further investigated. The database built within this paper provides excellent information not only for Targu Jiu area, but for any other investigation in intra-continental regions characterized by diffuse and sporadic seismic activity.
Neuregulin 2 Is a Candidate Gene for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Chien Wei-Hsien , Chen Chia-Hsiang , Cheng Min-Chih , Wu Yu-Yu , Gau Susan Shurfen
Published: March 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with heterogeneous and complex genetic underpinnings. Our previous microarray gene-expressed profiling identified significantly different neuregulin-2 (NRG2) gene expressions between ASD patients and controls. Thus, we aimed to clarify whether NRG2 is a candidate gene associated with ASD.
The study consisted of two stages. First, we used real-time quantitative PCR in 20 ASDs and 20 controls to confirm the microarray gene expression profiling results. The average NRG2 gene expression level in patients with ASD (3.23±2.80) was significantly lower than that of controls (9.27±4.78, p < 0.001). Next, we resequenced all exons of NRG2 in other 349 ASD subjects, who were compared with super-controls from the Taiwan Biobank using case-control association analysis to determine the existence of mutations or single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We identified three SNPs, including two noncoding ones, IVS3 + 13A > G (rs889022) and IVS9 + 32T > A (rs182642591), and one insertion/deletion (indel) SNP, named indel GCCCGGC, rs1323957797, in the NRG2 coding region. The genotype and allele frequency distribution of rs1323957797 significantly differed between ASDs and controls (p < 0.0001).
Our findings showed significant differences in genotype and allele frequency distribution of the indel SNP, rs1323957797, located in the EGF-like domain region at the C-terminal of the NRG2 precursor protein. Together with our findings, the indel SNP mutation was significantly more common in ASDs than controls, leading to lower NRG2 expression than controls, influencing NRG2 function. Our study’s findings suggest that NRG2 is a susceptibility gene for ASD.
Designing Nerve Growth Factor Analogues to Suppress Pain Signal Transduction Mediated by the p75NTR-NGF-TrkA Complex: A Structural and Biophysical Perspective
Authors: Li Wei
Published: March 2024

As a key mediator of chronic pain, neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF) binds to two neurotrophin receptors: p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA). The formation of the p75NTR-NGF-TrkA complex is implicated in the potentiation of chronic pain signals, making it an attractive target for therapeutic explorations. NGF analogues and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting NGF represent two distinct approaches in modulating the intricate signaling pathways involved in pain transduction mediated by the p75NTR-NGF-TrkA complex. While NGF analogues offer the advantage of tailored design to fine-tune neurotrophic responses, monoclonal antibodies provide a more systemic and comprehensive blockade of NGF, inhibiting its interactions with both p75NTR and TrkA receptors. However, the use of mAbs may pose challenges related to potential side effects and interference with the physiological functions of NGF. As a result, balancing the benefits and drawbacks of the two approaches is critical for advancing therapeutic strategies towards the alleviation of p75NTR-NGF-TrkA-mediated pain. In this study, therefore, a novel structural and biophysical approach was employed for the design of NGF analogues to suppress p75NTR-NGF-TrkA-related chronic pain signaling. Employing high-throughput structural modeling and biophysics-based intermolecular binding affinity calculations, this article for the first time puts forward a set of NGF analogues, including in particular NGF analogues with four site-specific mutations, for whose dimerizations the K d at 37 ◦C were reduced by three orders of magnitude (from 10-9 M to 10-6 M) compared to the K d at 37 ◦C for the dimerization of native NGFs. Overall, the integration of structural and biophysical perspectives enhances our understanding of the rational design of NGF analogues as promising candidates for the development of NGF-targeted analgesic therapies, which balances the benefits and drawbacks of anti-NGF antibodies and NGF analogues for advancing therapeutic strategies towards the alleviation of p75NTR-NGF-TrkA-mediated pain.
Revealing the Critical Role of Global Electron Density Transfer in the Reaction Rate of Polar Organic Reactions within Molecular Electron Density Theory
Authors: Domingo Luis R. , Ríos-Gutiérrez Mar
Published: March 2024

The critical role of global electron density transfer (GEDT) in increasing the reaction rate of polar organic reactions has been studied within the framework of Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT). To this end, the series of the polar Diels-Alder (P-DA) reactions of cyclopentadiene with cyanoethylene derivatives, for which experimental kinetic data are available, have been chosen. A complete linear correlation between the computed activation Gibbs free energies and the GEDT taking place at the polar transition state structures (TSs) is found; the higher the GEDT at the TS, the lower the activation Gibbs free energy. An interacting quantum atoms (IQA) energy partitioning analysis allows establishing a complete linear correlation between the electronic stabilization of the electrophilic ethylene frameworks and the GEDT taking place at the polar TSs. This finding supports Parr’s proposal for the definition of the electrophilicity  index (J. Am. Chem. Soc., 1999, 121, 1922). The present MEDT study allows establishing the critical role of the GEDT in the acceleration of polar reactions, since the electronic stabilization of the electrophilic framework with the electron density gain is greater than the destabilization of the nucleophilic one, making a net favorable electronic contribution to the decrease of the activation energy.
Balancing Speed and Precision: Lightweight and Accurate Depth Estimation for Light Field Image
Authors: Miya Ryutaro , Kawaguchi Tatsuya , Saito Takushi
Published: March 2024

With the progression of AI, embedding advanced AI technologies into small robotics and mobile devices has become essential, driving research towards lightweighting AI models. Our study enhances the EPINET depth estimation model for light field images, aiming for compactness and faster inference while preserving accuracy. We conducted two-step experiments aimed at enhancing inference efficiency: Initially, by adjusting input streams and convolution layers, we simplified the CNN model, achieving faster inference times at the cost of reduced accuracy. To address this reduction in accuracy, we then applied knowledge distillation, allowing the simplified model to learn from the original model’s more complex patterns. In our quantitative experiments using two error metrics, MSE (Mean Squared Error) and BadPix, we identified optimal knowledge positions and evaluated the required complexity for the student model. As a result, our method improved MSE by 21% and BadPix by 14% compared to training without it. Furthermore, the student model achieved an inference speed 13% faster than the teacher model and surpassed its accuracy by 10% in MSE. Additionally, we demonstrated that repeatedly applying our approach could further enhance both model compactness and accuracy.
Examination of the Spatial-Temporal Variations in Terrestrial Water Reserves and the Efficiency of Green Water Usage in China’s Three Northeastern Provinces
Authors: Wang Yanying , Wang Xianzhi , Zhao Longxue
Published: March 2024

Using both GRACE satellite data and statistical records, we apply the advanced Super-SBM model in this study to evaluate the efficiency of water resource utilization in 34 prefecture-level cities across three provinces in Northeast China from 2003 to 2020. Furthermore, we employ the Tobit model to examine the factors influencing efficiency. Our findings suggest that while spatial clustering is moderately low, the efficiency of water resource utilization in the Northeast Region is praiseworthy and significantly correlates with the level of technological advancement. Four distinct categories can be identified among the prefecture-level cities based on the scale and technological efficiency of water resource utilization. To promote enhanced utilization of water resources, different regions should implement measures that are specifically tailored to their unique circumstances.
Green Roof Substrate Microbes: Stress-Tolerant Communities Characterized by the Aeromicrobiome?
Authors: Van Dijck Thomas , Stevens Vincent , Steenaerts Laure , Thijs Sofie , Van Mechelen Carmen , Artois Tom , Rineau François
Published: March 2024

Extensive green roofs provide for many ecosystem services in urban environments. The efficacy of these services is influenced by the substrate characteristics and vegetational composition. Despite their key role in plant performance and productivity, or their contribution to nitrogen fixation or carbon sequestration, green roof microbial communities have received little attention so far. Here, we investigated whether microbial communities in extensive green roof substrates contain a core community, as well as whether they are affected by green roof plant diversity. Eleven green roofs, planted either with a mixture of grasses, wildflowers and succulents (Sedum spp.), or solely species of Sedum, were seasonally sampled to investigate prokaryotic and fungal communities via metabarcoding. Although Sedum-herbs-grasses roofs contained more plant species, we observed no discriminant microbial communities between both roof types, likely due to sharing the same substrate textures and the vegetational layers that became more similar throughout time. Examining key microbial taxa revealed that most taxa are also dominant phylotypes in soils across different biomes. Many bacterial core taxa are capable of nitrogen fixation and most fungal key taxa are stress-tolerant saprotrophs, endophytes, or both. Microbial community composition further revealed high similarities with aerial samples taken in urban environments. Considering the extreme edaphic conditions that periodically arise in green roof substrates, further investigation is warranted to determine the extent to which the dynamic and intriguing microbial communities are influenced by the aeromicrobiome.
Preparation of Biopesticide Powder from Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) Leaf Extract to Eradicate Whitefly Pests (Bemisia tabaci G.) on Eggplant Plants (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Fatmawati Laila Silvy , Andini Natasya Dian , Margono Dr.
Published: March 2024

The use of synthetic pesticides in Indonesia is increasingly widespread because they are considered effective in killing pests. However, synthetic pesticides leave residues that can cause environmental pollution and human health problems. Therefore, another alternative is needed, namely switching to using environmentally friendly vegetable pesticides. One of the alternatives is biopesticide powder from jicama leaf extract as a whitefly pest controller. Pomace leaves contain active compounds that are toxic to whitefly, namely rotenone which is a group of flavonoid compounds. The method of making this biopesticide powder consists of 2 stages, the first is the preparation of jicama leaf extract through a maceration process for 2 days with the ratio of leaf powder and solvent, namely 40 g, 60 g, 80, and 100 g of jicama leaf powder in 500 ml of 96% ethanol. The second stage is the processing of jicama leaf extract into biopesticide powder through the encapsulation process, namely mixing the extract with maltodextrin using a weight ratio of extract maltodextrin, namely 1 : 2 (w : w). The analysis carried out was the test of biopesticide effectiveness against whitefly. After testing, it was found that the biopesticide powder that was effective in eradicating whitefly pests was a biopesticide powder with a ratio of 100 grams of jicama leaf powder in 500 mL of 96% ethanol with a dissolution dose of 20 g/L in water, which was able to kill whitefly with a mortality percentage of 100% on day 3.
A low-cost machine learning process for gait measurement using an electrostatic sensors network
Authors: Pichon Blandine , Benoit Eric , Perrin Stéphane , Benoit Alexandre , Berton Nicolas , Coves Dorian , Cruvieux Julien , Faye Youssouph
Published: March 2024

Continuous in-house measurement of gait of elderly People is relevant for health professionals. To be adopted by most, the system must be low-cost and non-intrusive. In this paper we present a solution for measuring the walking velocity based on a network of 4 electric potential sensors. In our experiments, we also add PIR sensors used in our previous work for comparative purposes. A temporary Depth camera is used for training the model on walking velocity. The first results presented are obtained without machine learning. Then a machine learning regression method is tested to reduce the uncertainty of the sensors. The results show that the electric potential sensors are suitable for the in-house measurement of walking speed of elderly people. The uncertainty is lower than the target of 0.15 m s-1 known as the upper limit for detecting a reduction in speed due to illness. As for the PIR sensors, electric potential sensors consume very little energy, they are inexpensive, they can be embedded and hidden in the home which makes them less -intrusive and furthermore have better accuracy.
Amygdala-liver signaling orchestrates rapid glycemic responses to stress and drives stress-induced metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Stanley Sarah , Devarakonda Kavya , O'Connor Richard , Jimenez-Gonzalez Maria , Alvarsson Alexandra , Hampton Rollie , Espinoza Diego , Li Rosemary , Shtekler Abigail , Conner Kaetlyn , Bayne Mitchell , Garibay Darline , Martin Jessie , Lehmann Vanessa , Wang Liheng , Kenny Paul
Published: March 2024

Behavioral adaptations to environmental threats are crucial for survival and necessitate rapid deployment of energy reserves. The amygdala coordinates behavioral adaptations to threats, but little is known about its involvement in underpinning metabolic adaptations. Here, we show that acute stress activates medial amygdala (MeA) neurons that innervate the ventromedial hypothalamus (MeAVMH neurons), which precipitates hyperglycemia and hypophagia. The glycemic actions of MeAVMH neurons occur independent of adrenal or pancreatic glucoregulatory hormones. Instead, using whole-body virus tracing, we identify a polysynaptic connection from MeA to the liver, which promotes the rapid synthesis of glucose by hepatic gluconeogenesis. Repeated stress exposure disrupts MeA control of blood glucose and appetite, resulting in diabetes-like dysregulation of glucose homeostasis and weight gain. Our findings reveal a novel amygdala-liver axis that regulates rapid glycemic adaptations to stress and links recurrent stress to metabolic dysfunction.
Targeting ERBB3 and AKT to overcome adaptive resistance in EML4-ALK non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Bayliss Richard , Sampson Josephina , Ju Hyun-min , Yeoh Sharon , Choi Jene
Published: March 2024

The fusion event between EML4 and ALK drives a significant oncogenic activity in 5% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Even though potent ALK-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ALK-TKIs) are successfully used for the treatment of EML4-ALK-positive NSCLC patients, a subset of those patients eventually acquire resistance during their therapy. Here, we investigate the kinase responses in EML4-ALK V1 and V3 NSCLC cancer cells after acute inhibition with ALK TKI, lorlatinib. Using phosphopeptide chip array and upstream kinase prediction analysis, we identified a group of phosphorylated tyrosine peptides including ERBB and AKT proteins that are upregulated upon ALK-TKI treatment in EML4-ALK-positive NSCLC cell lines. Dual inhibition of ALK and ERBB receptors or AKT1 disrupts RAS/MAPK and AKT/PI3K signalling pathways, and enhances apoptosis in EML4-ALK NSCLC cancer cells. Heregulin, an ERBB3 ligand, differentially modulates the sensitivity of EML4-ALK cell lines to ALK inhibitors. These findings emphasize the important roles of AKT1 and ERBB3 to regulate signalling after acute lorlatinib treatment, identifying them as potential targets that may be beneficial to prevent adaptive resistance to EML4-ALK-targeted therapies in NSCLC.
Evaluation of Dragon’s Head Iranian landraces for resistance to prevalent diseases in the field and glasshouse conditions
Authors: Pouralibaba Hamid Reza , Kheirgoo Ma’asoumeh , Kia Shahriar
Published: March 2024

Dragon’s head (Lallemantia iberica) as an oilseed crop has been recently introduced to Iranian farmers and because of its tolerance to abiotic stresses has been acknowledged to be grown in drylands and rain-fed areas of the country in rotation with cereals and pulses. In this study, fifty Iranian L. iberica landrace were evaluated for the prevalent diseases under field conditions during 2019-2021 in Gonbad-Kavous, North of Iran. A spot lesion/blight symptom was observed in the field and the subsequent classical and molecular mycological studies identified Alternaria tenuissimaand A.atra as the causal agents. Subsequently, a complimentary experiment was conducted to screen genotypes for these disease agents under controlled conditions using the proposed scoring system invented in this study. Results showed a significant and negative strong correlation between Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR) with yield and plant height, while no relationship was observed between Alternaria spot/blight and agronomic traits. Nine and thirteen genotypes were identified as resistant and moderately resistant to SSR in the field and three of them showed additional resistance to Altarnaria spp. in the glasshouse. The resistant/high-yield genotypes identified through this research can be considered as valuable sources to be released as new cultivars or exploited in breeding programs.
Insights from a community-based survey on factors Influencing Acceptance and Uptake of Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir and ritonavir) as a COVID-19 Antiviral Medication in Singapore
Authors: Soh Sheng En Alexius Matthias , Ong Wei Ling Brenda , Thein Tun-Linn , Griva Konstadina , Chen I-Cheng Mark
Published: March 2024

Introduction
Antiviral treatment can reduce the burden of COVID-19. But utilisation can be suboptimal, even in a setting like Singapore where it is fully subsidized for those with selected medical conditions and older adults (≥ 50 years). We hence investigated the factors affecting awareness, acceptance, and initiative to request Paxlovid.
Methods
We assessed the Paxlovid awareness, factors impacting its uptake in a survey conducted from August 2022 to September 2022 through the SOCRATES cohort. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate associations between sociodemographics, perceptions, and attitudes with the key study outcomes.
Results
Among respondents to the Paxlovid survey, 54% were aware of Paxlovid. On being provided essential details about Paxlovid, 75% reported they would likely be receptive to taking it if prescribed, and 38% indicated the initiative to request for it if it was not suggested by their doctors. Factors associated with being aware of Paxlovid include aged 40 years old and above, higher education, citing websites as an information source, greater trust in healthcare providers (aOR: 1.65, 95% CI 1.26–2.15) and government communications (aOR: 0.69, 95% CI 0.55–0.86), and higher perceived risk of COVID-19 infection (aOR: 1.25, 95% CI 1.10–1.42). Factors associated with acceptance to take Paxlovid include male gender, citing trust in healthcare providers (aOR: 1.49, 95% CI 1.11–1.99) and government communications (aOR: 1.38, 95% CI 1.09–1.76), and higher perceived severity of COVID-19 (aOR: 1.23, 95% CI 1.07–1.42). Factors associated with initiative to request Paxlovid include male gender, having pre-existing diabetes and higher perceived severity of COVID-19 (aOR: 1.24, 95% CI 1.09–1.40). The most common reasons for why respondents might not take Paxlovid were concerns about side effects (64%), concerns about costs (29%), and the perception that COVID-19 is a mild (25%).
Conclusion
The majority of our respondents would take Paxlovid if it was prescribed to them, but a much smaller proportion would have the initiative to request for this. Key factors that may influence uptake are COVID-19 threat perceptions, trust in healthcare and government, and perceptions of the drug’s side effects and cost.
Research participant perceptions of personal utility in disclosure of individual research results from genomic analysis
Authors: Bogaert Brenda , Crevier Marie-Josée , Cindy Roth , Jox Ralf , Barazzetti Gaia
Published: March 2024

This article elaborates research participant perspectives on the communication of individual research results from genomic analyses. While most analyses focus on how to communicate results from the perspectives of clinicians or researchers, there is insufficient data on user perspectives and how this information may be used, valued, and interpreted by patients and their families. The concept of personal utility, which considers factors related to quality of life, including on how information may impact the person’s future decisions, has been shown to be particularly relevant to understand research participant perspectives and to move beyond clinical and analytic utility factors such as mortality and morbidity. This article draws from qualitative research of research participants awaiting genomic results in the case of sudden cardiac death. Our results show perspectives of personal utility in communication of genomic results, including cognitive, behavioral, and affective outcomes. Cognitive outcomes include gain of information, improved knowledge of etiology and inheritance characteristics, and curiosity for what might be found. Behavioral outcomes include being able to anticipate life decisions, while affective outcomes include various coping strategies used. We will also discuss the value of knowing negative results and incidental findings from the research participant’s perspective. This contribution gives suggestions on best practices to guide genome analysis returns, including incorporating participant wishes on individualized communication at the consent stage; developing relational autonomy approaches; and engaging them throughout the research trajectory.
Single-cell transcriptomics in MI identify Slc25a4 as a new modulator of mitochondrial malfunction and apoptosis-associated cardiomyocyte subcluster
Authors: Zhou Ting , Pan Jing , Xu Kai , Yan Chenghui , Yuan Jing , Song Haixu , Han Yaling
Published: March 2024

Objective
Myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of premature death. The death of cardiomyocytes (CMs) and the dysfunction of the remaining viable CMs are the main pathological factors contributing to heart failure (HF) following MI. This study aims to determine the transcriptional profile of CMs and investigate the heterogeneity among CMs under hypoxic conditions.
Method
Single-cell atlases of the heart in both the sham and MI groups were developed using single-cell data (GSE214611) downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/). The heterogeneity among CMs was explored through various analyses including enrichment, pseudo time, and intercellular communication analysis. The marker gene of C5 was identified using differential expression analysis (DEA). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), bulk RNA-sequencing dataset analysis, western blotting, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining, Mito-Tracker staining, TUNEL staining, and flow cytometry analysis were conducted to validate the impact of the marker gene on mitochondrial function and cell apoptosis of CMs under hypoxic conditions.
Result
We identified a cell subcluster named C5 that exhibited a close association with mitochondrial malfunction and cellular apoptosis characteristics, and identified Slc25a4 as a significant biomarker of C5. Furthermore, our findings indicated that the expression of Slc25a4 was increased in failing hearts, and the downregulation of Slc25a4 improved mitochondrial function and reduced cell apoptosis.
Conclusion
Our study significantly identified a distinct subcluster of CMs that exhibited strong associations with ventricular remodeling following MI. Slc25a4 served as the hub gene for C5, highlighting its significant potential as a novel therapeutic target for MI.
AdvYOLO: Advanced YOLOv8 Application for Bone Pathology Localization and Classification in Wrist X-ray Images
Authors: Wang Rongxiang , Zhao Jingwen , Liu Xiang , Tang Xian , Shi Yunyu , Wei Lina
Published: March 2024

In the field of pediatric orthopedics, accurate and timely identification of wrist fractures is vital for effective treatment and recovery. Fractures significantly affect daily activities and can lead to long-term health issues. Especially in areas with limited medical resources, or for doctors with less experience, interpreting X-ray images accurately is challenging. This paper introduces the AdvYOLO algorithm, an enhanced version of YOLOv8, trained on the GRAZPEDWRI-DX dataset to diagnose wrist bone pathologies. The integration of the Dilation-wise Residual (DWR) and Large Separable Kernel Attention (LSKA) modules is critical for improving feature extraction and classification, as they allow more effective processing of complex patterns in X-ray images, leading to more accurate diagnostics. The mAP 50 value of AdvYOLO improved from 63.8\% to 68.7\%, achieving state-of-the-art performance in wrist detection. Additionally, the paper presents BoneVisionAI, a tool to assist doctors, particularly those with less experience, in accurately interpreting children's wrist X-rays, aiming to reduce diagnostic errors in the healthcare sector.
Magnetoelectric effect in multiferroic nickelate perovskite YNiO3
Authors: Staub Urs , Hernández Nazaret Ortiz , Skoropata Elizabeth , Ueda Hiroki , Burian Max , Alonso José
Published: March 2024

The interaction of magnetic order and ferroelectric polarization is a fundamental coupling with the prospect for the control of electronic properties and magnetism. The connection among magnetic order, charge localization and associated metal-insulator transition (MIT) is another cornerstone for materials control. Materials that combine both effects are therefore of great interest but so far not established. One of the classes of materials proposed to combine these functionalities is the family of RNiO3 (R: lanthanide or Y), whose members show a clear MIT and an antiferromagnetic ground state, and for which an electric polarization has been predicted. Here, we show by resonant magnetic x-ray scattering with circular polarization that YNiO3 does not only possess a magnetic structure containing domains of spin-rotations that are consistent with the occurrence of electric polarization, but also that there is a significant magnetoelectric interaction that allows manipulation of magnetic domains by an electric field. This shows that charge ordered RNiO3 are magnetoelectric multiferroics with a MIT.
Research on the Biological Potential of Lemon ( Citrus Limon L. Burm.) Peel Extracts as a Multi functional Cosmetic Raw Material
Authors: Huang Jinqing , Xu Xu , Wang Shengdong , Wang Dandan , Xi Linzhi , Liu Chang , Liu Liping
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to explore the potential of lemon peel extracts as a cosmetic raw material, with a focus on their aromatic, antimicrobial and various biological activities. Lemon peel essential oil (PLEO), extract (PLE) and absolute oil (PLAO) were prepared by steam distillation and organic solvent extraction, respectively. The compositions of PLEO, PLE and PLAO were analyzed by GC/MS, revealing 22, 39, and 9 components respectively, with terpenoids being the main component. PLE had the highest total flavonoid content, and surpassing that of total polyphenols. Aroma intensity, measured with an electronic pen, followed the order LPEO > LPE > LPAO, while aroma persistence was ranked LPAO > LPEO > LPE. All three lemon peel extracts showed strong antibacterial (against E. coli, S. aureus, and C.albicans), as well as antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase properties, with inhibition rates exceeding 90% in a dose-dependent manner. LPEO demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory effects compared to LPAO and LPE, with inhibitory rates of 87.79 ± 3.86% and 80.75 ± 2.33% on TNF-α and IL-6 at a concentration of 1×10− 2 mg/mL. Lemon peel extract was found to promote HaCat cell migration, with LPEO showing greater effectiveness than LPE and LPAO. The healing rate of scratched HaCat cells treated with LPEO at a concentration of 1×10− 2 µL/mL for 12 hours was 95.29 ± 3.41%. In conclusion, the combination of these extracts could broaden their applications in cosmetics by offering aroma-enhancing, antioxidant, whitening, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin wound healing benefits.
Impact of transvaginal cervical cerclage on pregnancy outcomes in women with cervical incompetence
Authors: Guo Yuanyuan , Aziz Aziz ur Rehman , Wang Daqing , Yu Xiaohui
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The transvaginal cervical cerclage performed for the treatment of cervical incompetence (CI) may affect the pregnancy/birth outcomes. The study aims to investigate the clinical effects of transvaginal cervical cerclage at three different operation timings and analyze the factors associated with pregnancy and newborn outcomes.
Methods: We used an improved U-shaped surgical method (patent number ZL 201320151440.8.) for the first time. 80 patients were divided into three groups based on operation timings: preventive (H), stress (U) and emergency (E) groups. These groups were compared in terms of surgical efficacy and factors affecting pregnancy outcomes.
Results: The total pregnancy success rate of the subjects in this study was 80.0%. There was no significant difference in the rate of live birth, late miscarriage, premature birth, and neonatal occupancy among the groups. The 1-minute Apgar score in the H group was the greatest of the groups. Different factors like ureaplasma infection, hypothyroidism, assisted reproductive conception, C-reactive protein, gestational diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and BMI negatively affected pregnancy outcomes.
Conclusions: The postoperative clinical effect of H group was better than that of U and E groups. The study concluded that our suture method and material were associated with better pregnancy and newborn outcomes among the groups.
A Multifaceted Approach to Injection Mold Design, Analysis and Manufacturing
Authors: Krishnappa Madhukumar , N Channa Keshava Naik , Mallaradhya Mallaradhya Hulikere , Naik Rudra , Islam Saiful , Majdi Hasan Sh , Kumar Sandeep , Kumar Rahul , Anjinappa Chandrashekar , Khan Wahaj Ahmad
Published: March 2024

The injection molding procedure primarily involves a sequential process that converts plastic pellets into a molded item. Through a repetitive cycle, identical components are created by melting resin pellets or powder and then injecting the resulting polymer melt into a hollow mold cavity using high pressure. Injection molding has posed challenges for numerous manufacturers and researchers aiming to create cost-effective products that meet specified criteria. This research explores the holistic process of designing, analyzing, and manufacturing of an injection mold for an air filter box bottom cover, focusing on cost-effectiveness while addressing common challenges in achieving high-quality parts. For the production of this part, a material called Poly Propylene talc filled [PPTF] is employed due to its enhanced stiffness, making it appropriate for this application where dimensional stability is crucial. Through moldflow simulation, potential issues like uneven flow, problematic weld lines, and air traps are identified. Based on these findings, the mold design is optimized by strategically placing gates, controlling weld line position, eliminating gas traps, equalizing pressure drops, and reducing stress levels. The optimized parameters are then implemented in manufacturing, leading to improved part quality through reduced defects and better dimensional accuracy. Additionally, the research helps minimize production costs by reducing rejections and rework. This, multifaceted approach not only streamlines the process but also contributes to the efficient and cost-effective production of high-quality air filter box bottom covers.
A hybrid quantum-classical classification modelbased on branching multi-scale entanglementrenormalization ansatz
Authors: Hou Yan-Yan , Li Jian , Xu Tao , Liu Xin-Yu
Published: March 2024

Tensor networks are emerging architectures for implementing quantum classification models. Branching Multi-Scale Entanglement Renormalization Ansatz (BMERA) is a tensor network known for its enhanced entanglement properties. This paperintroduces a hybrid quantum-classical classification model based on BMERA and explores the correlation between circuit layout,expressiveness, and classification accuracy. Additionally, we introduce an autodifferentiation method for computing the costfunction gradient, which presents a viable option for other hybrid quantum-classical models. Through numerical experiments,we demonstrate the superior accuracy and robustness of our classification model in tasks such as image recognition andcluster excitation discrimination, outperforming quantum classification models based on tree tensor networks and multi-scaleentanglement regularization ansatz.
Study on the Reduction of Residual Stress in Laser Cladding Layers through Groove Texture
Authors: Zhao Changlong , Ma Chen , Du Weilong , Yu Zice , Zhang Zihao
Published: March 2024

In seeking a method to produce crack-free overlay layers, we combined surface texturing technology with laser cladding, establishing a multi-field coupled numerical simulation model. We separately investigated the temperature, stress, and fluid fields in laser cladding processes with and without texturing, seeking optimal cladding parameters, and conducted experiments. Numerical simulation results indicate that pre-set texturing effectively reduces the temperature gradient during the cladding process, making the thermal cycle curve smoother. The residual stresses in the X, Y, and Z directions are reduced by 34.84%, 3.94%, and 50.22%, respectively. The introduction of texturing reduces the internal flow velocity of the melt pool, preventing the occurrence of a double vortex effect. Experimental results demonstrate that, compared to non-textured cladding, pre-set texturing reduces residual stresses in the X, Y, and Z directions by 41.42%, 8.04%, and 47.02%, respectively. This effectively improves surface roughness and internal grain size of the cladding layer, and no apparent defects occur at the metallurgical bonding site. These findings provide valuable insights for enhancing the quality of subsequent cladding layers.
Challenges of Pharmacy Residency Program Publications in Pediatric Oncology Hospital in a Developing Country
Authors: Fikry Sally , Zabni Faihan El , Hassanien Omneya , Zamzam Manal
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Residency program in Children’s Cancer Hospital-Egypt (CCHE) is the first ever accredited international pharmacy practice residency program (IPPR) from American Society of Health System Pharmacist (ASHP). Pharmacy residency programs play a significant role in achieving the goal of highly qualified pharmacist. They give residents the chance to "conduct a practice-related project using effective project management skills" in order to be accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The majority of these projects, despite the time and effort invested in them, are only presented at regional and national residency conferences and do not ultimately result in peer-reviewed publications. Recent studies show that pharmacy resident projects have low publication rates. The results of pharmacy residency publication barriers are mostly from studies that surveyed residents and directors in the United States, no studies were done in a developing country.
Objectives: To determine the challenges that are facing the pharmacy residents during project publication in CCHE among the graduated residents from 2019 till 2022 and to evaluate the perceived value of the projects from the preceptors’ prospective.
Method: This was a cross-sectional survey of pharmacy residents and pharmacy preceptors. International pharmacy practice residents (IPPR) who have completed and finished the program during the last four years from 2019 till 2022 were eligible to complete the survey while preceptors who have three or more years of experience in clinical pharmacy were involved.
A list of the graduated residents and the active preceptors was prepared in with the help of the residency program director and an online version of the survey was distributed among them.
Results: A significant barrier identified by half of the residents was the challenge of completing the residency project within a one year. Meanwhile, 41.7% pointed out the lack of allocated time for their projects, and for 33.3%, writing the manuscript posed a challenge. The preceptors acknowledged the significance of the research project as a foundational learning opportunity that hones lifelong learning skills
Conclusion: The primary obstacles impeding the publication process in the context of pharmacy residency programs are the lack of dedicated time and the challenging nature of completing research projects within the limited timeframe of a one-year residency program. To establish an enhanced model that facilitates the successful progression of a pharmacy residency project, encompassing all stages from concept development to peer-reviewed publication, it is imperative to identify and address these barriers.
Self-Interest Overrides Rank-Reversal Aversion in Resource Distribution
Authors: Kim Minyoung , Kim Kun Il , Kim Hackjin
Published: March 2024

The equitable allocation of resources has long been a central concern for humanity, prompting extensive research into various motivations that drive the pursuit of distributive justice. In contrast to one of the most fundamental motives, inequality aversion, a conflicting motive has been proposed: rank-reversal aversion. However, it remains unclear whether this rank-reversal aversion persists in the presence of self-rank. Here we provide evidence of rank-reversal aversion in the first-party context and explore diverse moral strategies for distribution. In a modified version of the redistribution game involving 55 online-recruited participants, we observed rank-reversal aversion only when one’s rank was maintained. When participants’ self-rank was altered, they tended to base their behavior on their new ranks. This behavioral tendency varied among individuals, revealing three distinct moral strategies, all incorporating considerations of rank-reversal. Our findings suggest that rank-reversal aversion can indeed influence one’s distribution behavior, although the extent of its impact may vary among individuals, especially when self-rank is a factor. These insights can be extended to political and economic domains, contributing to a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of distributive justice.