bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Transtensional Fault Zone on the Northeastern Margin of the Tibetan Plateau: Millennial Earthquake Recurrence and High Earthquake Hazard
Authors: Guo Peng , Han Zhujun , Gai Hailong , Niu Pengfei , Li Jiani
Published: October 2024

The seismic gaps between ruptures of large earthquakes in tectonically active deformation zones are usually considered to be dangerous areas for future earthquakes. The Western Tianzhu Basin fault (WTBF) with an oblique normal motion is located in the middle of the Tianzhu seismic gap between the M 8.5 Haiyuan and M 8.0 Gulang earthquakes, NE Tibetan Plateau. The faulting activity of the WTBF is key to understanding the seismic hazards of the seismic gap, but it remains poorly constrained. Using satellite images, field investigations, paleoseismic trenching, and radiocarbon dating, we found that the WTBF produced seven paleoearthquakes since ∼8,000 cal. yr BP, with the latest event occurring at 1,005 ± 584 cal. yr BP, yielding an average recurrence interval of 1,102 ± 100 yr and a coefficient of variation of 0.38, indicating that it features a millennial quasi‐periodic recurrence. Based on the comparative analysis of geometry, kinematics, and tectonic activity, we suggest that the Tianzhu seismic gap can be divided into three sections and is characterized by a segmented rupture pattern. Among them, the WTBF and Jinqianghe fault exhibit similar geometry and kinematics and together form the ∼55 km‐long Jinqianghe‐Tianzhu transtensional fault zone (JTTFZ) that is capable of producing earthquakes of Mw 7.2. Given the long elapsed time since the latest event and strong seismogenic potential, it is believed that the JTTFZ poses a high seismic hazard. Our results enhance the understanding of the high seismic hazard in seismic gaps and provide new insights into the seismic rupture behavior in the NE Tibetan Plateau.
Direct phase measurement of waveguides with a next generation optical vector spectrum analyzer
Authors: Grieco Andrew
Published: October 2024

A novel dual-mode optical vector spectrum analyzer is demonstrated that is suitable for the characterization of both passive devices as well as active laser sources. It can measure loss, phase response, and dispersion properties over a broad bandwidth, with high resolution and dynamic range.
Longitudinal association of homocysteine with depressive and anxiety symptoms among urban adults: healthy aging in neighborhoods of diversity across the life span study
Authors: Georgescu Michael F. , Beydoun May A. , Maino Vieytes Christian A. , Fanelli-Kuczmarski Marie T. , Ashe Jason , Beydoun Hind A. , Hossain Sharmin , Noren Hooten Nicole , Evans Michele K. , Zonderman Alan B.
Published: October 2024

Longitudinal associations of homocysteine (HCY) with depressive symptoms scores among urban adults remain under-studied, especially across sex, race and levels of anxiety. We examined longitudinal associations of homocysteine (HCY) with depressive symptoms scores among urban adults, before and after stratifying by sex, race and anxiety level, using data from 1460 Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Lifespan Study (HANDLS) participants aged 30–64 y at v1 (2004–2009), followed across 3 visits up to 2017. In addition to LnHcyv1, we used group-based trajectory models predicting z-transformed likelihood of greater LnHcy with age (Hcytraj). Total and domain-specific depression symptoms were scored using Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale. Mixed-effects linear regression models and Cox proportional hazards models were utilized. A positive association was found between baseline LnHcyv1 and CES-D total scores in reduced socio-demographic- adjusted Model 1 (β (standard error [SE]) = + 2.337 (0.902), P = 0.010), a relationship slightly attenuated in fully adjusted Model 2 (Model 1 adjusting for lifestyle and health factors) with a β (SE) = + 1.825 (0.883), P = 0.039. Individuals with lower anxiety levels experienced faster CES-D domain 2 score annualized increase over time (interpersonal problems) with higher LnHcyv1 (β (SE) = 0.041 (0.018), P = 0.024). Hcytraj was linked to incident elevated depressive symptoms (CES-D total score ≥16) overall (fully adjusted model: HR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.03–1.14, P = 0.001), particularly among women and those living in poverty. Baseline and “high trajectory” of LnHcy were positively associated with depressive symptoms and elevated depressive symptom incidence, in a sex-, race-, poverty status- and anxiety-level specific manner.
LAP2α orchestrates alternative lengthening of telomeres suppression through telomeric heterochromatin regulation with HDAC1: unveiling a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Wang Bing , Kou Haomeng , Wang Yuwen , Zhang Qi , Jiang Duo , Wang Juan , Zhao Ziqin , Zhou Yao , Zhang Miaomiao , Sui Lei , Zhao Mingfeng , Liu Yancheng , Liu Yang , Shi Lei , Wang Feng
Published: October 2024

In response to the challenge of telomere attrition during DNA replication, cancer cells predominantly employ telomerase or, in 10–15% of cases, the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). The intricate details of ALT, however, remain elusive. In this study, we unveil that the knockdown of lamina-associated polypeptide 2 alpha (LAP2α) in ALT cells results in telomere dysfunction, triggering a notable increase in ALT-associated hallmarks, including high frequencies of PML bodies (APBs), C-rich extrachromosomal circles (C-circles), and telomere sister chromatid exchange (T-SCE). Furthermore, LAP2α emerges as a crucial player in break-induced telomere replication for telomerase-positive cells following telomeric double-strand breaks. Mechanistically, our investigation suggests that LAP2α may influence the regulation of the heterochromatic state of telomeres, thereby affecting telomeric accessibility. In line with our findings, LAP2α expression is markedly reduced in ALT-positive osteosarcoma. And the use of methotrexate (MTX) can restore the heterochromatin state altered by LAP2α depletion. This is evidenced by a significant inhibition of tumor proliferation in ALT-positive patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models. These results indicate the important role of LAP2α in regulating ALT activity and offer insights into the interplay between lamina-associated proteins and telomeres in maintaining telomere length. Importantly, our findings may help identify a more appropriate target population for the osteosarcoma therapeutic drug, MTX.
Unidirectional ray polaritons in twisted asymmetric stacks
Authors: Álvarez-Cuervo J. , Obst M. , Dixit S. , Carini G. , F. Tresguerres-Mata A. I. , Lanza C. , Terán-García E. , Álvarez-Pérez G. , Álvarez-Tomillo L. F. , Diaz-Granados K. , Kowalski R. , Senerath A. S. , Mueller N. S. , Herrer L. , De Teresa J. M. , Wasserroth S. , Klopf J. M. , Beechem T. , Wolf M. , Eng L. M. , Folland T. G. , Tarazaga Martín-Luengo A. , Martín-Sánchez J. , Kehr S. C. , Nikitin A. Y. , Caldwell J. D. , Alonso-González P. , Paarmann A.
Published: October 2024

The vast repository of van der Waals (vdW) materials supporting polaritons offers numerous possibilities to tailor electromagnetic waves at the nanoscale. The development of twistoptics—the modulation of the optical properties by twisting stacks of vdW materials—enables directional propagation of phonon polaritons (PhPs) along a single spatial direction, known as canalization. Here we demonstrate a complementary type of directional propagation of polaritons by reporting the visualization of unidirectional ray polaritons (URPs). They arise naturally in twisted hyperbolic stacks with very different thicknesses of their constituents, demonstrated for homostructures of $$\alpha$$
α
-MoO3 and heterostructures of $$\alpha$$
α
-MoO3 and $$\beta$$
β
-Ga2O3. Importantly, their ray-like propagation, characterized by large momenta and constant phase, is tunable by both the twist angle and the illumination frequency. Apart from their fundamental importance, our findings introduce twisted asymmetric stacks as efficient platforms for nanoscale directional polariton propagation, opening the door for applications in nanoimaging, (bio)-sensing, or polaritonic thermal management.
The GIAB genomic stratifications resource for human reference genomes
Authors: Dwarshuis Nathan , Kalra Divya , McDaniel Jennifer , Sanio Philippe , Alvarez Jerez Pilar , Jadhav Bharati , Huang Wenyu , Mondal Rajarshi , Busby Ben , Olson Nathan D. , Sedlazeck Fritz J. , Wagner Justin , Majidian Sina , Zook Justin M.
Published: October 2024

Despite the growing variety of sequencing and variant-calling tools, no workflow performs equally well across the entire human genome. Understanding context-dependent performance is critical for enabling researchers, clinicians, and developers to make informed tradeoffs when selecting sequencing hardware and software. Here we describe a set of “stratifications,” which are BED files that define distinct contexts throughout the genome. We define these for GRCh37/38 as well as the new T2T-CHM13 reference, adding many new hard-to-sequence regions which are critical for understanding performance as the field progresses. Specifically, we highlight the increase in hard-to-map and GC-rich stratifications in CHM13 relative to the previous references. We then compare the benchmarking performance with each reference and show the performance penalty brought about by these additional difficult regions in CHM13. Additionally, we demonstrate how the stratifications can track context-specific improvements over different platform iterations, using Oxford Nanopore Technologies as an example. The means to generate these stratifications are available as a snakemake pipeline at https://github.com/usnistgov/giab-stratifications. We anticipate this being useful in enabling precise risk-reward calculations when building sequencing pipelines for any of the commonly-used reference genomes.
Effective xanthine oxidase inhibitor urate lowering therapy in gout is linked to an emergent serum protein interactome of complement and inflammation modulators
Authors: Sanchez Concepcion , Campeau Anaamika , Liu-Bryan Ru , Mikuls Ted R. , O’Dell James R. , Gonzalez David J. , Terkeltaub Robert
Published: October 2024

Urate-lowering treatment (ULT) to target with xanthine oxidase inhibitors (XOIs) paradoxically causes early increase in gouty arthritis flares. Because delayed reduction in flare burden is mechanistically unclear, we tested for ULT inflammation responsiveness markers. Unbiased proteomics analyzed blood samples (baseline, 48 weeks ULT) in two, independent ULT out trial cohorts (n = 19, n = 30). STRING-db and multivariate analyses supplemented determinations of altered proteins via Wilcoxon matched pairs signed rank testing in XOI ULT responders. Mechanistic studies characterized proteomes of cultured XOI-treated murine bone marrow macrophages (BMDMs). At 48 weeks ULT, serum urate normalized in all gout patients, and flares declined in association with significantly altered proteins (p < 0.05) in clustering and proteome networks in sera and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Sera demonstrated altered complement activation and regulatory gene ontology biologic processes. In both cohorts, a treatment-emergent serum interactome included key gouty inflammation mediators (C5, IL-1B, CXCL8, IL6). Last, febuxostat treatment decreased complement activation biologic process proteins in cultured BMDMs. Reduced gout flares are linked with a XOI treatment-emergent serum protein interactome that includes inflammation regulators, associated with altered complement activation and regulatory biologic processes. Serum and leukocyte proteomics could help identify when gouty inflammatory processes begin to subside in response to ULT.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02579096, posted October 19, 2015.
Efficacy and safety of topical glycopyrronium bromide in treating axillary hyperhidrosis: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Elrosasy Amr , Zeid Mohamed Abo , Samha Raghad , Alkousheh Hazim , cadri Shirin , cadri Nina , Mashaly Doaa , Ehab Aya , Abdullah Lava , AlEdani Esraa M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Hyperhidrosis (HH), characterized by excessive sweating, poses a significant challenge to patients’ quality of life. This meta-analysis evaluates the safety and efficacy of topical glycopyrronium bromide (GBP) in treating primary hyperhidrosis, a chronic condition affecting various body regions. Despite its prevalence, primary axillary hyperhidrosis is often undertreated due to a lack of awareness and social stigma.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing GBP to a placebo in primary hyperhidrosis patients. Eligibility criteria included outcomes related to perspiration suppression and symptom improvement.

Results

Four RCTs involving 1401 patients were included. GBP significantly increased Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) responders (RR = 2.33, 95% CI [1.99 to 2.74], p < 0.00001) and Axillary Sweating Daily Diary (ASDD/ASDD-C) responders (MD = 3.07, 95% CI [2.32 to 4.06], p < 0.002) without significantly causing adverse events. Dermatology life quality index was also significantly improved in the GBP group (MD = -2.32, 95% CI [-3.09, -1.55], P < 0.00001).

Conclusion

GBP demonstrated effectiveness in reducing sweat production while improving HDSS and DLQI scores. Adverse events included dry mouth and anticholinergic effects. Dry eye and local skin reactions were not significant, which makes GBP promising in managing primary hyperhidrosis, offering improvements in symptoms and quality of life. While adverse events should be considered, further research with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up is warranted for comprehensive clinical integration.
Enhanced docetaxel therapeutic effect using dual targeted SRL-2 and TA1 aptamer conjugated micelles in inhibition Balb/c mice breast cancer model
Authors: Taghipour Yasamin Davatgaran , Zarebkohan Amir , Salehi Roya , Talebi Mehdi , Rahbarghazi Reza , Khordadmehr Monireh , Khavandkari Sharareh , Badparvar Fahimeh , Torchilin Vladimir P.
Published: October 2024

Effective targeting and delivery of large amounts of medications into the cancer cells enhance their therapeutic efficacy through saturation of cellular defensive mechanisms, which is the most privilege of nano drug delivery systems (NDDS) compared to traditional approaches. Herein, we designed dual-pH/redox responsive DTX-loaded poly (β-amino ester) (PBAS) micelles decorated with a chimeric peptide and TA1 aptamer. In vitro and in vivo results demonstrated that the designed nanoplatform possessed an undetectable nature in the blood circulation, but after exposure to the tumor microenvironment (TME) of 4T1 breast cancer, it suddenly changed into dual targeting nanoparticles (NPs) (containing two ligands, SRL-2 and TA1 aptamer). The dual targeting NPs destruction in the high GSH and low pH conditions of the cancer cells led to amplified DTX release (around 70% at 24 h). The IC50 value of DTX-loaded MMP-9 sensitive heptapeptide/TA1 aptamer-modified poly (β-amino ester) (MST@PBAS) micelles and free DTX after 48 h of exposure was determined to be 1.5 µg/ml and 7.5 µg/ml, respectively. The nano-formulated DTX exhibited cytotoxicity that was 5-fold stronger than free DTX (Pvalue˂0.001). Cell cycle assay test results showed that following exposure to MST@PBAS micelles, a considerable rise in the sub G1 population (48%) suggested that apoptosis by cell cycle arrest had occurred. DTX-loaded MST@PBAS micelles revealed significantly higher (Pvalue ˂ 0.001) levels of early apoptosis (59.8%) than free DTX (44.7%). Interestingly, in vitro uptake studies showed a significantly higher TME accumulation of dual targeted NPs (6-fold) compared to single targeted NPs (Pvalue < 0.001) which further confirmed by in vivo biodistribution and fluorescent TUNEL assay experiments. NPs treated groups demonstrated notable tumor growth inhibition in 4T1 tumor bearing Balb/c mice by only 1/10th of the DTX therapeutic dose (TD) as a drug model. In conclusion, cleverly designed nanostructures here demonstrated improved anticancer effects by enhancing tumor targeting, delivering chemotherapeutic agents more accurately, promoting drug release, reducing the therapeutic dosage, and lowering side effects of anticancer drugs.
Joint encryption and error correction for secure quantum communication
Authors: Jha Nitin , Parakh Abhishek , Subramaniam Mahadevan
Published: October 2024

Secure quantum networks are a bedrock requirement for developing a future quantum internet. However, quantum channels are susceptible to channel noise that introduce errors in the transmitted data. The traditional approach to providing error correction typically encapsulates the message in an error correction code after encryption. Such separate processes incur overhead that must be avoided when possible. We, consequently, provide a single integrated process that allows for encryption as well as error correction. This is a first attempt to do so for secure quantum communication and combines the Calderbank-Shor-Steane (CSS) code with the three-stage secure quantum communication protocol. Lastly, it allows for arbitrary qubits to be transmitted from sender to receiver making the proposed protocol general purpose.
Fluorescent analyses of sediments and near-seabed water in the area of the WW2 shipwreck “Stuttgart”
Authors: Baszanowska Emilia , Otremba Zbigniew , Kubacka Maria
Published: October 2024

Motorship wrecks on the seabed pose a serious threat to the marine environment due to oil leaking from their fuel tanks. Such substances can penetrate the sediments and enter the water. There is a need to analyse bottom water and seabed sediment samples for the content of toxic petroleum substances. Tests were undertaken on samples collected near ​​the site of the World War II shipwreck of the s/s “Stuttgart”. The wreck is located in the Baltic Sea, in the Gulf of Gdańsk. To answer whether toxic hydrocarbons from wrecks enter the sea environment, a fluorometric analysis was carried out based on measurements of excitation-emission ultraviolet spectra for sediments and near-seabed water. The results of these analyses indicate the presence of oil substances in the sediments and the bottom water at some sampling points close to the wreck site. Studies have shown that the applied method of the so-called fluorometric indicator allows for determining the sites of water pollution with oil substances hidden in sediments.
Study on Fenton-based discoloration of reactive-dyed waste cotton prior to textile recycling
Authors: Meurs Elise , Morshed Mohammad Neaz , Kahoush May , Kadi Nawar
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility of an alternative Fenton-based advanced oxidation process for the discoloration of reactive-dyed waste cotton as a pre-treatment for textile recycling. For that, pre-wetted dark-colored (black and blue) knitted samples of 300 cm2 are treated in 1200mL Fenton-solution containing 14 mM Fe2+ and 280mM H2O2 at 40 °C. Characterization of the textiles before and after the treatments are performed by UV VIS-spectrophotometry measuring color strength, microscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, thermal analysis and tensile testing measuring tenacity and elongation. Afterwards, the cotton is mechanically shredded for qualitative analysis of the recyclability. The color-strength measurements of the black and blue cotton led to discoloration-efficiencies of respectively 61.5 and 72.9%. Microscopic analysis of discolored textile fabric also showed significant fading of the colored textiles. Mechanical analysis resulted in reduced tensile strength after treatment, indicating oxidation of the cellulosic structure besides the degradation of the dye-molecules, also confirmed by reductions in thermal stability found after thermal analysis. Shredding of the fabric resulted in enhanced opening, but shorter remaining fibers after treatment. The findings of this study provide a proof-of-concept for an alternative color-stripping treatment concerning a Fenton-based advanced oxidation process as a pre-treatment for textile recycling.
Bandgap formation mechanism in tacticity inspired elastic mechanical metastructures
Authors: Dwivedi Ankur , Munian Rajendra Kumar , Bhattacharya Bishakh , Adhikari Sondipon
Published: October 2024

Tacticity is long known as a significant contributor in changing the chemical and mechanical properties of the polymers drastically. This study explores mechanism of bandgap formation in elastic mechanical metastructures designed with a focus on tacticity. We introduce metabeams, comprising a primary slender beam embedded with short secondary beams featuring end masses at their tips. The investigation delves into the numerically simulated vibration characteristics of metabeams using finite element analysis, with a subsequent comparison to experimental results for fabricated metabeams. Employing a unit-cell design approach that manipulates spatial and physical parameters, we explore a wide range of uniform and non-uniform metabeam configurations based on the distance between secondary beams and distribution of local resonators as per tacticity. Hence, drawing inspiration from tacticity, we extend our investigation to isotactic and syndiotactic metabeams, altering physical parameters (mass) within the unit cell for both configurations. The strategic distribution of end masses on attached secondary beams introduces unique characteristics to isotactic and syndiotactic metabeams, allowing for the modulation of bandgaps without altering the natural frequencies of the resonators in symmetric and anti-symmetric metabeam designs. Our research demonstrates, incorporating tacticity in metabeam design offers a novel and unconventional approach to modulate the bandgap formation mechanism.
Effect of adding various supplements on physicochemical properties and starch digestibility of cooked rice
Authors: Wang Lin , Cai Yidi , Prempree Peeraphat , Hao Rili , Jiang Dahai , Bainto-Ancheta Loraine , Ogawa Yukiharu
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the physicochemical modifications of cooked rice caused by adding various supplements (rapeseed oil, dried wasabi powder, and dried chili pepper powder). The physicochemical and digestive properties of treated cooked rice were analyzed using multiple techniques to determine the impact of supplements on the rice quality, including its starch digestibility. All samples with added supplements showed an increase in surface firmness (0.77–0.95 kg·m/s2 (N)) and a decrease in thickness (2.23–2.35 mm) and surface adhesiveness (1.43–7.22 J/m3). Compared to the control group, two absorption peaks at 2856 and 1748 cm−1 and new signals at 1683 and 1435 cm−1 appeared in the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Analysis of FTIR results revealed that the interaction force was mainly through noncovalent interactions. Moreover, adding supplements increased the resistant starch (RS) levels in all samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) suggested that oil-enriched phases, proteins, and polyphenols could cause large agglomeration and loose gel structure. These results suggested the formation of amylose-guest molecule complexes, which may influence starch functionality. Our work could provide insight into the starch–supplement interactions and the key factors affecting starch digestibility.
Monitoring the genetic diversity in holothurian populations from the Italian coasts with mitochondrial DNA sequences
Authors: Ribani Anisa , Taurisano Valeria , Rakaj Arnold , Fianchini Alessandra , Grosso Luca , Pensa Davide , Pulcini Domitilla , Buttazzoni Luca , Schiavo Giuseppina , Bovo Samuele , Bertolini Francesca , Utzeri Valerio Joe , Tinti Fausto , Capoccioni Fabrizio , Fontanesi Luca
Published: October 2024

Sea cucumbers are deposit feeding members of marine benthic communities. The over-exploitation of sea cucumber natural stocks, especially in the Mediterranean basin, is having negative impacts on the marine ecosystem. This concerns had led the Italian government to take legal actions to preserve these important marine resources. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of genetic diversity and population structures within two sympatric Holothuria sea cucumber species, H. polii and H. tubulosa, across ten Mediterranean areas along Italy. A 323 bp portion of the COI mitochondrial gene was sequenced in a total of 441 holothurians (251 H. polii, 177 H. tubulosa and 13 from other species). Genetic diversity analyses and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) suggest that H. polii and H. tubulosa species are distinct, but within and among populations are homogeneous, indicating active gene flows across the Mediterranean areas investigated. H. polii showed a lower genetic diversity than H. tubulosa, probably related to differences in life history traits. Phylogenetic analyses showed a clear differentiation between the two species, even if six specimens morphologically assigned to a species clustered within the other species, indicating a possible occurrence of hybridization events. These data will be useful in implementing conservation actions for these holothurian genetic resources.
Impact of applying different levels of threshold-based artifact correction on the processing of heart rate variability data in individuals with temporomandibular disorder
Authors: Cutrim Rodrigo Costa , Santos-de-Araújo Aldair Darlan , Anselmo-e-Silva Cassius Iury , Ferreira Edna Cristina Pinheiro , de Azevedo Silva Tatyana Santana , Dibai-Filho Almir Vieira , Bassi-Dibai Daniela
Published: October 2024

Although heart rate variability (HRV) is a valid method to evaluate the behavior of the autonomic nervous system in individuals with temporomandibular disorder (TMD), the measurement can easily be biased by factors involving the analysis methodology, such as the removal of artifacts. Therefore, the objective of this investigation is to evaluate the impact of using different levels of threshold-based artifact correction to process HRV data in individuals with TMD. This cross-sectional observational study. Adults aged 18 to 55 years old with a diagnosis of myogenic TMD, score ≥ 50 on the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) and pain ≥ 3 on the Numerical Pain Scale (NPS) participated. The HRV was registered in the supine position (short-term) using a Polar S810i. Kubios software was used for HRV analysis using all filters. One-way ANOVA with Tukey-Kramer post-hoc was used to test the differences in HRV using the different Kubios Software artifact correction filters. The effect size was calculated based on the Cohen d. The very strong filter was statistically different (p < 0.05) compared to the no filter in all overview and time domain variables. In the frequency domain, the variables VLF, LF, HF and Total Power showed statistical differences (p < 0.05) when using the very strong filter. The same occurred with the variables SD1, SD2 and DFA α2 of the non-linear analysis (p < 0.05). The most restrictive filter of the Kubios software (very strong) significantly impacts the quantification of HRV parameters in individuals with TMD.
Resting state network changes induced by experimental inaudible infrasound exposure and associations with self-reported noise sensitivity and annoyance
Authors: Forlim Caroline Garcia , Ascone Leonie , Koch Christian , Kühn Simone
Published: October 2024

The effects of prolonged infrasound (IS) exposure on brain function and behavior are largely unknown, with only one prior study investigating functional connectivity (FC) changes. In a long-term randomized-controlled trial, 38 participants were exposed to inaudible airborne IS (6 Hz, 80–90 dB) or sham devices for four weeks (8 h/night). We assessed FC changes in resting-state networks (auditory, default mode (DMN), sensorimotor (SMN), and executive control (ECN)), and explored IS ‘sensitivity’ as a predictor of identified significant FC changes. We also examined correlations between somatic symptoms and FC. IS exposure led to decreased FC in the right precuneus (DMN) and increased FC in the Vermis IV and V (SMN). In the ECN, we observed increased FC in the right frontal middle gyrus (BA8) and the right inferior parietal lobe, and decreased FC in another region of the right frontal middle gyrus. Changes in the ECN (right inferior parietal lobe) were negatively associated with self-reported annoyance from IS/low-frequency noise. A significant negative association was found between FC changes in the DMN (right precuneus) and somatic symptoms. Our study is the first to investigate prolonged IS exposure effects on brain FC, revealing changes in the vDMN, SMN, and ECN, but not in the auditory network. Future studies should assess annoyance and sensitivity markers, fine-grained measures of somatic symptoms, and stratify samples by sensitivity to uncover individual differences in response to IS.
Different responses of larval fatty acid profiles to cryopreservation in two commercially important bivalves
Authors: Zhu Xiaochen , Miller-Ezzy Penny , Hall Tony , Tang Youhong , Qin Jianguang , Zhao Yingying , Li Xiaoxu
Published: October 2024

Larval cryopreservation techniques have been established in Pacific oysters and Mediterranean mussels. Although initial cryopreservation protocols for both species differed slightly in Ficoll PM 70 (FIC) concentration, better post-thaw larval survivability was produced in mussels than oysters. Furthermore, the post-thaw survivability in the latter could be improved significantly by the addition of lipids and antioxidants to the cryoprotectant agent. These findings have generated a unique opportunity to investigate the cryo-functions of both endogenous and exogenous fatty acids (FAs) in bivalves as mammalian studies indicated that lipid compositions could contribute the interspecific difference in gamete and embryo cryopreservation. Our study showed that the higher survivability of post-thaw larvae in mussels (65% vs. 34% in oysters) could be attributed to their higher proportion of total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially C22:6, and higher resistance of FA profiles to cryopreservation. In oysters, on the other hand, their FA profiles were very sensitive to cryopreservation, with saturated FAs and PUFAs being significantly increased (from 37 to 41%) and decreased (from 35% to ~ 32%), respectively. Although exogenous lipids could significantly improve the survivability of post-thaw oyster larvae from 34 to 51%, their supplementation did not alter the response pattern of endogenous FA profiles to cryopreservation.
Modelling freckles and spurious grain formation in directionally solidified superalloy castings
Authors: Zhang Haijie , Zhao Yunxing , Xiong Wei , Ma Dexin , Ludwig Andreas , Kharicha Abdellah , Wu Menghuai
Published: October 2024

Segregation channels with misoriented spurious grains, known as freckles, are an unacceptable casting defect in superalloy turbine blades. A digital-twin method to predict segregation channels was proposed in our previous studies; however, the formation of spurious grains was ignored. Here, we extend the digital twin methodology by incorporating dendrite fragmentation, which is recognized as the predominant mechanism in the formation of spurious grains. The flow-induced fragmentation process has been refined to account for the timing of dendrite pinch-off. A three-phase mixed columnar-equiaxed solidification model was used to track the motion of the crystal fragments. Directional solidification experiments for superalloy casting were conducted in an industrial-scale Bridgman furnace, and the distribution of spurious grains in the freckles was metallographically analysed. Excellent simulation-experiment-agreement was achieved. Based on this study, the formation of spurious grains within the segregation channels is mainly caused by the flow-driven fragmentation mechanism. Experimentally measured freckles can be reproduced only if the timing of the dendrite pinch-off is considered.
Extending the Chevrel-type superatoms to the nitrogen family
Authors: Yang Ziyao , Du Ning , Chen Hongshan
Published: October 2024

[Co6As8(CN)6]2− forms closed electronic shells and all the occupied MOs exhibit bonding nature. Co6S8(CO)6 has 12 more electrons and it has one more pair of triply degenerate bonding and antibonding orbitals T2u ⊕ T1g.
The role of the stabilizing/leaving group in palladium catalysed cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Palio Lorenzo , Bru Francis , Ruggiero Tommaso , Bourda Laurens , Van Hecke Kristof , Cazin Catherine , Nolan Steven P.
Published: October 2024

Despite the widespread use of well-defined PdII complexes as pre-catalysts for cross-coupling processes, the role of the throw-away ligand is still underexplored.
Adsorption behavior of carbon dots on La3+ and the multiple effects on the growth of mung bean seedlings under La3+ stress
Authors: Liu Xinanbei , Niu Xianfei , Tian Yinshuai , Jiang Yue , Cheng Cheng , Wang Ting , Sun Yiran , Chen Fang , Xu Ying
Published: October 2024

This study describes the multiple effects of carbon quantum dots on lanthanum inhibition and the in vivo accumulation of precipitates.
Regioselective syn-1,2-hydroarylation of internal alkynes
Authors: Dutta Shubham , Sethi Manoj , Maity Avijit , Sahoo Aradhana , Gandon Vincent , Sahoo Akhila K.
Published: October 2024

The regioselective hydro-functionalization reaction is a powerful method to convert readily available alkynes into structurally diverse olefins.
Diversity-oriented synthesis enables the rapid development of quinoxaline-based bis-boron fluorophores: photophysical properties and sensing applications
Authors: Jin Chaochao , Zhang Jiongpei , Wang Zhihua , Werz Daniel B. , Tan Jiajing
Published: October 2024

A series of unique quinoxaline-based bis-boron fluorophores was developed. Post-complexation functionalization allowed the fast SAR studies and multiple applications as sensors.
Wideband absorptive frequency‐selective reflector based on split‐ring resonator embedded with chip resistor
Authors: Zhou Bingyan , Zhang Binchao , Chi Baihong , Jin Cheng
Published: October 2024

Here, a wideband absorptive frequency‐selective reflector (AFSR) based on a split‐ring resonator (SRR) embedded with chip resistors is proposed. The wide absorption band is achieved by the multimode resonances of two dipoles, and the insertion of SSRs is able to bypass the losses in the passband, thus allowing to open a wide window in addition to achieving broadband absorption performance. The upper structure consists of a dipole in series with two SSRs, while the lower dipole connects one SSR. The upper and lower structures are grouped together and rotated by 90° around the Z‐axis to form the final dual‐polarization 3D‐AFSR. The simulated results demonstrate that reflection coefficients below −10 dB are seen between 6.74–9.31 and 16.91–19.61 GHz under normal incidence, with a total fractional bandwidth of 46.8%. It also has a wide 3 dB reflection band which is obtained from 10.69 to 15.44 GHz, and the entire profile is 0.17λL, where λL is lowest operating frequency.
Investigation of microwave power transfer near sea surface with 2D parabolic equation method
Authors: Hui Jinyi , Bao Rong , Mu Jingkuan , Chi Xiang , Liu Chunliang
Published: October 2024

Due to the existence of the evaporation duct near‐sea‐surface described as an inhomogeneous refractive index of atmosphere, microwaves can be trapped in the duct and propagate along it. To investigate wireless power transfer (WPT) over the sea surface, we utilize the two‐dimensional parabolic equation to calculate the electric field distribution and to obtain the transferred power. By analysing the propagation results with specific evaluation functions, we obtained the proper conditions for long‐distance WPT over the sea surface. When the initial field distributes uniformly on the one‐meter aperture, the frequency is 12 GHz, and the centre position is 4 m, a unique focusing spot can be obtained in the duct and nearly 5%, 8%, and 12% of the initial power remains at a distance of 10 km with a receiving aperture of 1, 2, and 3 m, respectively. The presented WPT scheme near the sea surface has potential applications in the power supply or charging for ships or small islands.
A temperature rise calculation model of wind turbine gearbox gear considering crack fault and tooth number difference
Authors: Lin Shiyu , Zhao Hongshan , Yang Weixin , Li Xibei , Sun Chengyan
Published: October 2024

The crack fault of gear is usually accompanied by temperature rise. Therefore, to master the temperature characteristics of the cracked gear of the wind turbine gearbox, a temperature rise calculation model of wind turbine gearbox gear considering crack fault and tooth number difference is proposed. Firstly, the time‐varying meshing stiffness model of the cracked gear considering the tooth number difference is established based on the potential energy method. Secondly, the calculation method of the meshing surface normal load of the cracked gear is deduced. Thirdly, the temperature rise calculation model of the meshing surface of the cracked gear is constructed based on Blok flash temperature theory. Finally, the data of the high‐speed gear of a wind turbine gearbox in northern China is selected for simulation verification. By comparing with the finite element method, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified. The simulation results reveal the gear temperature characteristics of the wind turbine gearbox with different crack ratios. The research can provide some theoretical support for the accurate fault diagnosis and maintenance of wind turbine gearbox, and can also be applied to the fault diagnosis of gear cracks in other mechanical structures with a large transmission ratio.
Forgotten treasures in the HST/FOC UV imaging polarimetric archives of active galactic nuclei
Authors: Marin F. , Barnouin T. , Wu K. , Lopez-Rodriguez E.
Published: October 2024

Context. The active galactic nucleus within M87, a giant elliptical galaxy, is responsible for one of the closest kiloparsec-scale relativistic jets to Earth. It is thus a perfect target for spatially resolved observations.

Aims. This one-sided jet has been extensively observed at almost all wavelengths, with almost all techniques. Among many other discoveries, it was found that the optical emission is more concentrated in the knots and along the center line of the jet, in comparison to, for example, the radio emission. A remaining question relates to what we can learn from its polarized counterpart.

Methods. We unearthed unpublished polarization maps taken with the Faint Object Camera (FOC) aboard the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), obtained between 1995 and 1999. At a rate of one observation per year, we can follow the evolution of the polarized flux knots in the jet. We can thus constrain the timescale of variation in the magnetic field up to a spatial resolution of one tenth of an arcsecond (∼11.5 pc).

Results. After coherently reducing the five observations using the same methodology presented in the first paper of this series, the analysis of polarized maps from POS 1 (base of the jet) and POS 3 (end of the jet) reveals significant temporal and spatial dynamics in the jet’s magnetic field morphology. Despite minimal changes in the overall intensity structure, notable fluctuations in polarization degrees and angles are detected across various knots and inter-knot regions. In addition, the emission and polarization characteristics of M87’s jet differ significantly between POS1 and POS3. POS1 shows a more collimated jet with strong variability in polarization, while POS3 reveals a thicker structure, a quasi-absence of variability, and complex magnetic field interactions. This suggests that the jet may have coaxial structures with distinct kinetic properties. Theoretical models like the jet-in-jet scenario, featuring double-helical magnetic flux ropes, help to explain these observations and indicate a strong density contrast and higher speeds in the inner jet.

Conclusions. Our temporal analysis demonstrates the importance of high-spatial-resolution polarization mapping in understanding jets’ polarization properties and overall dynamics, especially if such maps are taken at different wavelengths (ultraviolet and radio).
Die eigene Gesundheit priorisieren – Gesunde Führungskräfte
Authors: Holtmeier Lisa
Published: October 2024

In der Vergangenheit beschäftigten sich Studien aus dem Arbeitsleben meistens mit der Gesundheit von Mitarbeiter*innen. Doch wie geht es eigentlich den Führungskräften in Deutschland? Neuere Untersuchungen zeigen, wie prekär die Lage ist. Im folgenden Beitrag erfahren Sie, wie es um die Gesundheit von Führungspersonen steht und wodurch sie besonders beeinflusst wird.
Wie valide ist die Arm-Hand-Aktivitäten-Skala? – Wissenschaft nachgefragt
Authors: Veit Katrin
Published: October 2024

Im neurologischen Rehabilitationszentrum der Gailtal-Klinik in Hermagor wurde die Arm-Hand-Aktivitäten-Skala (AHAS) entwickelt, um den Schweregrad von Arm-Hand-Paresen nach einem Schlaganfall auf Aktivitäts- und Partizipationsebene einfach und verständlich zu klassifizieren. Christina Hebenstreit hat in ihrer Masterarbeit die AHAS untersucht und deren Validität geprüft. Ihr Ergebnis: Die AHAS ist ein effektives Instrument für eine schnelle Klassifikation.
Neuroprotektive Wirkungen von Antidiabetika in der Therapie von Patienten mit Diabetes und Glaukom oder hohem Glaukomrisiko
Authors: Weisser Burkhard , Erb Carl
Published: October 2024

Das Glaukom ist mit zahlreichen Risikofaktoren und internistischen Erkrankungen wie Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 verbunden. Der Typ-2-Diabetes-mellitus führt peripher und im Gehirn zu neurodegenerativen Veränderungen. Möglicherweise liegt in der Neurodegeneration auch eine Gemeinsamkeit in der Pathophysiologie und Ätiologie beider Erkrankungen. Interessanterweise scheinen zahlreiche Medikamente zur Therapie des Diabetes mellitus unabhängig von der Senkung des Blutzuckers neuroprotektive Eigenschaften aufzuweisen. Obwohl prospektive, randomisierte klinische Studien dazu noch fehlen, scheinen besonders Metformin und Glucagon-like-Peptide-1-Receptor-Agonisten (GLP-1-RA) neuroprotektive Effekte aufzuweisen. Die immer noch sehr häufig eingesetzten Sulfonylharnstoffe (z. B. Glibenclamid, Glimepirid) senken zwar sehr potent den Blutzucker, haben bez. der Neuroprotektion wohl vergleichsweise weniger Effekte. In der vorliegenden Übersicht werden diese unterschiedlich ausgeprägten neuroprotektiven Befunde dargestellt und eine mögliche Differenzialtherapie für Diabetiker mit Glaukom oder erhöhtem Glaukomrisiko in der Praxis diskutiert.
Diabetische Nephropathie und Progressionsverlangsamung der CKD
Authors: Krüger Thilo
Published: October 2024

Die Verlangsamung des Krankheitsverlaufs bei chronischer Nierenkrankheit (CKD: „chronic kidney disease“) stellt eine wesentliche, wenn nicht die wesentlichste Aufgabe von Nephrologinnen und Nephrologen dar. Aufgrund der Häufigkeit von Diabetes mellitus kommt der diabetischen Nephropathie dabei ein bedeutender Stellenwert zu. Erfreulicherweise haben sich in den letzten Jahren zahlreiche Neuerungen in Bezug auf therapeutische Möglichkeiten ergeben. Dieser Artikel fasst sowohl altbekannte als auch neue Behandlungsmethoden zur Progressionsverlangsamung der diabetischen Nephropathie zusammen.
Erfolgreiche Versorgungsstrukturen für Menschen mit Diabetischem Fußsyndrom drohen zu verschwinden
Authors: Manuela Richter
Published: October 2024

Bis zu 850 000 Menschen erkranken jährlich am Diabetischen Fußsyndrom (DFS). Bei etwa 50 000 Betroffenen wird sogar eine Amputation an Beinen oder Füßen notwendig. Die Hauptziele der DFS-Therapie sind daher, den Verlust der unteren Gliedmaßen zu verhindern und die Lebensqualität und -erwartung der Patientinnen und Patienten zu erhalten. Doch die Krankenhausreform ignoriert Versorgungsstrukturen, die dies gewährleisten. Das kritisiert die Arbeitsgemeinschaft „Diabetischer Fuß“ der Deutschen Diabetes Gesellschaft (DDG) in ihrem aktuellen Positionspapier scharf: Um einen künftigen Versorgungsmangel zu verhindern, muss eine auf DFS spezialisierte interdisziplinäre Zentrenbildung gefördert und etablierte Facharzt-Zusatzbezeichnungen in der Diabetologie in der Leistungsgruppe „Endokrinologie und Diabetologie“ anerkannt werden. Ohne ausreichende Expertise droht ein Wiederanstieg der Amputationsrate – ein Rückschritt, der die Therapieerfolge der letzten Jahrzehnte zunichtemachen würde.
Hormonaktive Substanzen für viele Erkrankungen verantwortlich – was man dagegen tun kann
Authors: Stephanie Balz
Published: October 2024

Hormonaktive Substanzen, auch bekannt als endokrine Disruptoren (ED), finden sich überall – von Plastik und Kosmetika über Nahrung und Trinkwasser bis hin zu Alltagsgegenständen und Spielzeug. „Unsere Umwelt ist mit diesen Schadstoffen regelrecht durchtränkt“, warnt Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Joseph Köhrle, Experte der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Endokrinologie (DGE). ED stellen eine ernsthafte Bedrohung für die Gesundheit dar und können die Entwicklung und Gesundheit von Ungeborenen beeinträchtigen. Daher fordert die DGE bereits seit Jahren, die betreffenden Substanzen aus dem Verkehr zu ziehen.
Phenotype and Genotype of Children with ALS2 gene-Related Disorder
Authors: Yoganathan Sangeetha , Kumar Madhan , Aaron Rekha , Rangan Srinivasa Raghavan , Umakant Bidkar Sayli , Thomas Maya , Oommen Samuel Philip , Danda Sumita
Published: October 2024

Introduction The Alsin Rho Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor (ALS2) gene encodes a protein alsin that functions as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor. The variations in ALS2 gene leads to degeneration of upper motor neurons of the corticospinal tract. The phenotypes resulting from variants in ALS2 gene are infantile-onset ascending hereditary spastic paralysis (IAHSP, OMIM # 607225), juvenile primary lateral sclerosis (JPLS, OMIM # 606353), and juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (JALS, OMIM # 205100). Our study objectives were to describe the clinical phenotype and genotype of children with an established diagnosis of ALS2 gene-related disorder.

Methods The clinical details, laboratory data, and genotype findings of children with an established diagnosis of ALS2 gene-related disorder were collected from the hospital electronic database after obtaining institutional review board approval.

Results One family with three affected siblings, a second family with a proband and an affected fetus, and a third family with two affected siblings with ALS2 gene variants were identified. IAHSP was diagnosed in all of our patients with variants in ALS2 gene. The clinical findings observed in our patients were insidious onset progressive spastic paraparesis, contractures, and dysarthria. Nonsense variants were observed in four patients while frameshift variant was observed in one family. Novel variants in ALS2 gene were identified in two unrelated families.

Conclusion ALS2 mutation results in rare neurodegenerative disorders with the clinical spectrum encompassing IAHSP, JPLS, and JALS disorders. In view of allelic heterogeneity described in the literature, more research studies are needed for establishing genotype–phenotype correlation in patients with ALS2 gene-related disorder.