bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Construction Mechanics and Stability Control Technology of Expressway Tunnel Based on Numerical Analysis
Authors: Li Wei , Wen Hongping
Published: October 2024

As an effective structural form, connecting arch tunnel has been widely used in practical engineering because of its smooth linear shape, small footprint and good bridge and tunnel connection. With the increase of domestic traffic volume year by year, the width of the even arch tunnel is gradually changed from two-way four lanes to two-way six lanes. I20 I-steel, spacing 0.75∼1 m, anchor length 3∼4 m, ring spacing 0.5∼1 m, the side ring spacing of the middle wall is 0.75 m, the side ring spacing of the side wall is 1 m, and the shotcrete thickness is 0.25∼0.3 m. The excavation span of a two-way six-lane continuous-arch tunnel is considerable, leading to complex stress characteristics, thereby posing risks to construction safety and structural stability. Following the construction of the initial tunnel, disturbance to the surrounding rock occurs, affecting subsequent excavation phases. The initial support requirements for subsequent excavations are more intricate, with increased internal forces compared to the initial tunnel segment. As the rear tunnel progresses, the surrounding rock near the middle wall shifts towards the rear tunnel, reducing internal forces in the concrete and steel arch frame. However, as the rear tunnel distance increases, concrete stress and axial forces on the middle wall side of the initial tunnel begin to rise. Throughout the construction, the steel arch frame’s internal forces and spray concrete stress on the middle wall side’s arch waist and foot are the highest, making them susceptible to disruption from construction on the opposite side, thus constituting critical tunnel components. Numerical simulations effectively capture surrounding rock and structural stress dynamics during large-span arch tunnel construction. Simulation outcomes align closely with field measurements, particularly in three-dimensional simulations, enhancing construction understanding and management.
Resolution-enhanced quantitative phase imaging of blood platelets using a generative adversarial network
Authors: Luria Lior , Barnea Itay , Mirsky Simcha K. , Shaked Natan T.
Published: October 2024

We developed a new method to enhance the resolution of blood platelet aggregates imaged via quantitative phase imaging (QPI) using a Pix2Pix generative adversarial network (GAN). First, 1 µm polystyrene beads were imaged with low- and high-resolution QPI, to train the GAN model and validate its applicability. Testing on the polystyrene beads demonstrated a mean error of 4.14% in the generated high-resolution optical-path-delay values compared to the optically acquired ones. Next, blood platelets were collected with low- and high-resolution QPI, and a deep neural network was trained to predict the high-resolution platelet optical-path-delay profiles using the low-resolution profiles, achieving a mean error of 7.01% in the generated high-resolution optical-path-delay values compared to the optically acquired ones. These results highlight the potential of the method in enhancing QPI resolution of cell aggregates without the need for sophisticated optical equipment and optical system modifications for high-resolution microscopy, allowing for better understanding of platelet-related disorders and conditions such as thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis.
MICU2 up-regulation enhances tumor aggressiveness and metabolic reprogramming during colorectal cancer development
Authors: Robert Alison , Crottès David , Bourgeais Jérôme , Gueguen Naig , Chevrollier Arnaud , Dumas Jean-François , Servais Stéphane , Domingo Isabelle , Chadet Stéphanie , Sobilo Julien , Hérault Olivier , Lecomte Thierry , Vandier Christophe , Raoul William , Guéguinou Maxime
Published: October 2024

The mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) plays crucial role in intramitochondrial Ca2+ uptake, allowing Ca2+-dependent activation of oxidative metabolism. In recent decades, the role of MCU pore-forming proteins has been highlighted in cancer. However, the contribution of MCU-associated regulatory proteins mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 and 2 (MICU1 and MICU2) to pathophysiological conditions has been poorly investigated. Here, we describe the role of MICU2 in cell proliferation and invasion using in vitro and in vivo models of human colorectal cancer (CRC). Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated an increase in MICU2 expression and the MICU2/MICU1 ratio in advanced CRC and CRC-derived metastases. We report that expression of MICU2 is necessary for mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and quality of the mitochondrial network. Our data reveal the interplay between MICU2 and MICU1 in the metabolic flexibility between anaerobic glycolysis and OXPHOS. Overall, our study sheds light on the potential role of the MICUs in diseases associated with metabolic reprogramming.
Reinforcement learning when your life depends on it: A neuro-economic theory of learning
Authors: Jiang Jiamu , Foyard Emilie , van Rossum Mark C. W.
Published: October 2024

Synaptic plasticity enables animals to adapt to their environment, but memory formation can require a substantial amount of metabolic energy, potentially impairing survival. Hence, a neuro-economic dilemma arises whether learning is a profitable investment or not, and the brain must therefore judiciously regulate learning. Indeed, in experiments it was observed that during starvation, Drosophila suppress formation of energy-intensive aversive memories. Here we include energy considerations in a reinforcement learning framework. Simulated flies learned to avoid noxious stimuli through synaptic plasticity in either the energy expensive long-term memory (LTM) pathway, or the decaying anesthesia-resistant memory (ARM) pathway. The objective of the flies is to maximize their lifespan, which is calculated with a hazard function. We find that strategies that switch between the LTM and ARM pathways, based on energy reserve and reward prediction error, prolong lifespan. Our study highlights the significance of energy-regulation of memory pathways and dopaminergic control for adaptive learning and survival. It might also benefit engineering applications of reinforcement learning under resources constraints.
Harnessing nature-based solutions for economic recovery: A systematic review
Authors: Chausson Alexandre , Smith Alison , Reger Ryne Zen-Zhi , O’Callaghan Brian , Mori Clement Yadira , Zapata Florencia , Seddon Nathalie
Published: October 2024

Nature-based solutions (NbS) involve working with nature to address societal challenges in ways that benefit communities and biodiversity locally. However, their role supporting economic recovery from crises, such as those arising from conflicts or pandemics remains underexplored. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review of 66 reviews on the economic impact of nature-based interventions. Most demonstrated positive outcomes for income and employment, though those with critical appraisal of underlying studies reported more mixed outcomes. These varied results were influenced by factors such as the balance between short-term and long-term gains, market conditions, regional effects, reliance on subsidies, and discrepancies between expected and actual economic benefits. National-scale economic growth assessments were scarce. Half of the cases featured nature-based food production investments, with much evidence from sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia and the Pacific. The few reviews comparing NbS with alternatives found that NbS delivered equal or better economic outcomes. NbS also provided broader benefits like food and water security, flood protection and community empowerment. We identified key factors influencing the delivery of benefits and trade-offs, finding that NbS must adhere to best practice standards, with community involvement being critical for equitable outcomes. Well-designed NbS can create diverse job opportunities at different skill levels, diversify income, and improve resilience, offering a rapid, flexible response to economic shocks that can be targeted at deprived communities. By integrating traditional, local and scientific knowledge, NbS can enable eco-innovation, and drive the transition to a clean and efficient circular economy, with high economic multipliers spreading benefits throughout economies. The evidence underscores the need to incorporate NbS in investment programs to concurrently address economic, environmental, and societal challenges. However, improved monitoring of economic, social and ecological outcomes and the development of comprehensive accounting systems are needed to better track public and private investments in NbS.
Mass azithromycin for prevention of child mortality among children with acute malnutrition: A subgroup analysis of a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sié Ali , Ouattara Mamadou , Bountogo Mamadou , Boudo Valentin , Ouedraogo Thierry , Dah Clarisse , Compaoré Guillaume , Lebas Elodie , Hu Huiyu , Porco Travis C. , Arnold Benjamin F. , O’Brien Kieran S. , Lietman Thomas M. , Oldenburg Catherine E.
Published: October 2024

Children with acute malnutrition are at high risk of morality. Mass azithromycin distribution reduces all-cause mortality among children aged 1–59 months, and effects may be greater in underweight infants. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of azithromycin for reducing all-cause mortality in children aged 6–59 months with acute malnutrition (mid-upper arm circumference, MUAC, < 12.5 cm). Communities in Nouna District, Burkina Faso were 1:1 randomized to biannual mass distribution of single dose azithromycin or placebo to all children aged 1–59 months. Mortality was assessed during each census and treatment round. MUAC measurements were collected for all children. We evaluated the effect of azithromycin on mortality in subgroups of children aged 6–59 months defined by acute malnutrition (MUAC < 12.5 cm versus MUAC ≥ 12.5 cm). In children with MUAC < 12.5 cm, mortality rates were 51% lower among those living in azithromycin communities compared to placebo (incidence rate ratio 0.49, 95% confidence interval, CI, 0.25 to 0.99; incidence rate difference -18.1 deaths per 1,000 person-years, 95% CI -37.0 to -0.01), which was greater than the reduction in mortality among children with MUAC ≥ 12.5 cm (P-value for interaction on the relative scale = 0.09; P-value for interaction of the additive scale = 0.03). Children with acute malnutrition may benefit from single dose azithromycin above and beyond those without acute malnutrition.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03676764; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03676764
Extracellular vesicles of Clonorchis sinensis promote the malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma via NF-κB/EMT axis
Authors: Pan Xiaowen , He Qing , Yin Yingxuan , Xu Anyuan , Wu Aoxun , Yi Xueqing , Zhong Zifeng , Wu Yinjuan , Li Xuerong
Published: October 2024

Clonorchis sinensis infection is an important risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). It has been reported that extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in the parasite-host interaction, and EVs of C. sinensis (CsEVs) can contribute to biliary injuries and inflammation. However, uncertainty surrounds the function of CsEVs in the progression of CCA. In this study, differential ultracentrifugation was used to separate CsEVs from the culture supernatant of C. sinensis adult worms, and they were then identified by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis and proteome assays. CCK8, EdU-488 and colony formation assays were used to explore the effect of CsEVs on the proliferation of CCA cells in vitro. Wound healing assays, transwell assays and in vivo lung metastasis model were conducted to evaluate the migration and invasion abilities. Moreover, the involvement of EMT process, as well as NF-κB and ERK signaling pathway was assessed. Results showed that CsEVs were successfully isolated and could be taken up by CCA cells, which promoted proliferation by accelerating cell cycle progression. In addition, CsEVs could facilitate cell metastasis by triggering the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Mechanistically, activation of NF-κB signaling pathway was involved in the CsEVs-mediated EMT, which could be reversed partly by BAY 11–7082 (an inhibitor of NF-κB). In conclusion, these findings suggested that CsEVs could induce the aberrant proliferation and metastasis of CCA cells by stimulating the NF-κB/EMT axis, providing a novel theoretical explanation for liver fluke-associated CCA.
Multi-stage gaze-controlled virtual keyboard using eye tracking
Authors: Emile Tatinyuy Verdzekov , Noumsi Woguia Auguste Vigny , ngono Joseph mvogo , FONO Louis Aimé
Published: October 2024

This study presents a novel multi-stage hierarchical approach to optimize key selection on virtual keyboards using eye gaze. Existing single-stage selection algorithms have difficulty with distant keys on large interfaces. The proposed technique divides the standard QWERTY keyboard into progressively smaller regions guided by eye movements, with boundary fixations first selecting halves and quarters to sequentially narrow the search area. Within each region, keys are highlighted one by one for selection. An experiment compared the multi-stage approach to single-step techniques, having participants copy text using eye gaze alone under both conditions. Metrics on selection speed, words per minute, and usability ratings were significantly improved with the hierarchical technique. Half and quarter selection times decreased over 30% on average while maintaining accuracy, with overall task completion 20% faster. Users also rated the multi-stage approach as more comfortable and easier to use. The multi-level refinement of the selection area optimized interaction efficiency for gaze-based text entry.
Incidence and predictors of neuropsychiatric manifestations following a traumatic brain injury at referral hospitals in Dodoma, Tanzania: A protocol of a prospective longitudinal observational study
Authors: Aslan Suluma , Nyundo Azan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is any injury to the brain resulting from an external force leading to complications. TBI affects 27–69 million people yearly, with high incidence in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), mainly attributed to motor traffic accidents. Within three to six months following moderate-to-severe TBI, the relative risk of any psychiatric disorder is significantly higher than in the general population. Post-TBI neuropsychiatric disorders include depression with a prevalence of up to 53%, apathy up to 72%, Posttraumatic stress disorder (26%), anxiety (9%), manic symptoms (5–9%) and psychosis (3 to 8%). This study aims to determine the incidence and predictors of post-TBI neuropsychiatric manifestations among patients admitted at Referral hospitals in Dodoma.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective longitudinal observational study in which patients admitted with moderate to severe TBI will be recruited. Patients will be followed for six months, the diagnostic MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) tool will be used to assess TBI, and the severity and progression of symptoms will be evaluated using PHQ-9 for depressive symptoms, GAD-7 for anxiety symptoms, PCL-5 for Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD), MoCA for cognitive assessment, AES for apathy and YMRS for manic symptoms at one, three and six months. Logistic regression will be analysed to determine the association between predictors and neuropsychiatric outcomes.

Conclusion

Given the dearth of understanding of the burden of neuropsychiatric complications and associated outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa, the study will shed light on the incidence and factors contributing to post-TBI neuropsychiatric complications and, thus, provide a platform for further research and design of necessary interventional programs for the population at risk.
Testing self-supportive strategies to regulate autonomy and motivation
Authors: Flunger Barbara , Lilleholt Lau , Böhm Robert , Verdonschot Anouk , van Gog Tamara , Zettler Ingo
Published: October 2024

People regularly encounter situations in which they have to engage in tasks they find boring or irrelevant, in which case their autonomy—the need to act in ways that are meaningful for oneself—is impeded. When there is no motivational support available, individuals need to find ways to overcome their motivational barriers by themselves. Applying autonomy-regulation strategies may be effective for increasing autonomy and particularly the more adaptive types of motivation (i.e., intrinsic and internalized). Testing this idea, we investigated whether individuals apply self-supportive strategies to boost their feelings of autonomy and motivation in two studies via cross-sectional survey samples (overall N = 2,344). We analyzed how autonomy regulation strategies were associated with theoretically related variables via Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). In Study 1, the self-reported use of autonomy regulation strategies was strongly positively associated with intrinsic and internalized types of motivation, weakly positively correlated with introjected avoidance motivation, and not associated with external motivation. In Study 2, we introduced two dilemmas concerning motivational problems individuals face when engaging in tasks and being assigned a task, respectively. Results indicate that individuals report using general strategies of autonomy regulation to achieve fulfillment of autonomy and intrinsic motivation, next to more specific autonomy regulation strategies regarding specific dilemmas. Our results show that it would be worthwhile to investigate if stimulating individuals to use autonomy regulation strategies would positively affect their motivation (e.g., in job or study contexts), and that in doing so, it is important to consider both specific context effects on autonomy regulation as well as individual preferences for general strategies used to regulate one’s autonomy.
Label-free liquid chromatography mass spectrometry analysis of changes in broiler liver proteins under transport stress
Authors: Di Luca Alessio , Bennato Francesca , Ianni Andrea , Martino Camillo , Henry Michael , Meleady Paula , Martino Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Transportation duration and distance are significant concerns for animal welfare, particularly in the poultry industry. However, limited proteomic studies have investigated the impact of transport duration on poultry welfare. In this study, mass spectrometry based bottom up proteomics was employed to sensitively and impartially profile the liver tissue proteome of chickens, addressing the issue of animal stress and welfare in response to transportation before slaughter. The liver exudates obtained from Ross 508 chickens exposed to either short or long road transportation underwent quantitative label-free LC-MS proteomic profiling. This method identified a total of 1,368 proteins, among which 35 were found to be significantly different (p < 0.05) and capable of distinguishing between short and long road transportation conditions. Specifically, 23 proteins exhibited up-regulation in the non stressed group, while 12 proteins showed up-regulation in the stressed group. The proteins identified in this pilot study encompassed those linked to homeostasis and cellular energetic balance, including heat shock proteins and the 5′-nucleotidase domain-containing family. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the proteome in broiler liver tissues, shedding light on poultry adaptability to transport stress. Furthermore, the identified proteins present potential as biomarkers, suggesting promising approaches to enhance poultry care and management within the industry.
An inherently interpretable deep learning model for local explanations using visual concepts
Authors: Ullah Mirza Ahsan , Zia Tehseen , Kim Jungeun , Kadry Seifedine
Published: October 2024

Over the past decade, deep learning has become the leading approach for various computer vision tasks and decision support systems. However, the opaque nature of deep learning models raises significant concerns about their fairness, reliability, and the underlying inferences they make. Many existing methods attempt to approximate the relationship between low-level input features and outcomes. However, humans tend to understand and reason based on high-level concepts rather than low-level input features. To bridge this gap, several concept-based interpretable methods have been developed. Most of these methods compute the importance of each discovered concept for a specific class. However, they often fail to provide local explanations. Additionally, these approaches typically rely on labeled concepts or learn directly from datasets, leading to the extraction of irrelevant concepts. They also tend to overlook the potential of these concepts to interpret model predictions effectively. This research proposes a two-stream model called the Cross-Attentional Fast/Slow Thinking Network (CA-SoftNet) to address these issues. The model is inspired by dual-process theory and integrates two key components: a shallow convolutional neural network (sCNN) as System-I for rapid, implicit pattern recognition and a cross-attentional concept memory network as System-II for transparent, controllable, and logical reasoning. Our evaluation across diverse datasets demonstrates the model’s competitive accuracy, achieving 85.6%, 83.7%, 93.6%, and 90.3% on CUB 200-2011, Stanford Cars, ISIC 2016, and ISIC 2017, respectively. This performance outperforms existing interpretable models and is comparable to non-interpretable counterparts. Furthermore, our novel concept extraction method facilitates identifying and selecting salient concepts. These concepts are then used to generate concept-based local explanations that align with human thinking. Additionally, the model’s ability to share similar concepts across distinct classes, such as in fine-grained classification, enhances its scalability for large datasets. This feature also induces human-like cognition and reasoning within the proposed framework.
Associations of the TyG index with albuminuria and chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Li Xiaonan , Wang Yuehui
Published: October 2024

Objective

Diabetes-related kidney disease reduces patients’ quality of life, increases the risk of death, and is associated with insulin resistance (IR). The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a simple and inexpensive alternative to IR measurement. Furthermore, the relationship between albuminuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association of TyG index with albuminuria and CKD in patients with T2DM.

Methods

Data from 01/2013-12/2017 period were obtained from the Population Health Data Archive’s Diabetes Complications Data Set. A total of 1048 patients with T2DM were included in this study. CKD is defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min-1.1.73 m-2 or a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 30 mg/g. Albuminuria is defined as a UACR ≥ 30 mg/g. The TyG index is calculated by measuring the triglyceride and fasting blood glucose levels. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between albuminuria, CKD with T2DM and TyG index.

Results

We identified 1048 subjects, 63.03% of whom were men. The mean age was 46.21 years, and the mean body mass index was 26.742 kg/m2. CKD and albuminuria detection rates showed an increasing trend in the different TyG subgroups. (p = 0.008, p = 0.006). Using the Q1 group as a baseline, the risk of albuminuria and CKD was significantly greater in the group Q3 (OR = 1.514, 95% CI 1.121–2.047 P = 0.05), and the same result was obtained after adjusting for covariates (OR = 2.241, 95% CI 1.245–4.034, P = 0.007). Subgroup analyses revealed a significant increase in the incidence of albuminuria and CKD in the group Q3 compared to that in the Q1 group.

Conclusions

The TyG index is positively associated with albuminuria and CKD in patients with T2DM and may be a marker for predicting the occurrence of early kidney injury in patients with T2DM. Clinicians should test this indicator early to detect lesions and improve patient prognosis.
Effects of Artemisia asiatica ex on Akkermansia muciniphila dominance for modulation of Alzheimer’s disease in mice
Authors: Lee Mijung , Ahn Kwang-Sung , Kim Manho
Published: October 2024

The gut microbiome influences neurological disorders through bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain, i.e., the gut-brain axis. Artemisia asiatica ex, an extract of Artemisia asiatica Nakai (Stillen®, DA-9601) has been reported to improve depression by increasing brain-derived neurotropic factor. Therefore, we hypothesized that DA-9601 can be a potential therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) acting through the gut-brain axis. Four groups of Tg2576 mice were used as the animal model for AD: wild type mice (n = 6), AD mice (n = 6), and DA-9601-administered AD mice given dosages of 30mg/kg/day (DA_30mg; n = 6) or 100mg/kg/day (DA_100mg; n = 6). Microglial activation, blood‒brain barrier integrity, amyloid beta accumulation, cognitive behavior, and changes in the gut microbiome were analyzed. DA-9601 improved the cognitive behavior of mice (DA_30mg **p<0.01; DA_100mg **p<0.01) and reduced amyloid beta accumulation (DA_30mg ***p<0.001; DA_100mg **p<0.01). Increased Iba-1 and upregulation of claudin-5 (DA_30mg *p<0.05) and occludin (DA_30mg **p<0.01; DA_100mg ***p<0.001) indicated altered microglial activation and improved blood‒brain barrier integrity. Akkermansia muciniphila was dramatically increased by DA-9601 administration (DA_30mg 47%; DA_100mg 61%). DA-9601 improved AD pathology with Akkermansia muciniphila dominance in the gut microbiome in a mouse model of AD, inferring that DA-9601 can affect AD through the gut-brain axis.
Molecular characterization of PANoptosis-related genes in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Wen-tao , Ge Hong-wei , Wei Yuan , Gao Jing-lin , Tian Fang , Zhou En-chao
Published: October 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by fibrosis and inflammation in renal tissues. Several types of cell death have been implicated in CKD onset and progression. Unlike traditional forms of cell death, PANoptosis is characterized by the crosstalk among programmed cell death pathways. However, the interaction between PANoptosis and CKD remains unclear. Here, we used bioinformatics methods to identify differentially expressed genes and differentially expressed PANoptosis-related genes (DE-PRGs) using data from the GSE37171 dataset. Following this, we further performed gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis using the data. We adopted a combined approach to select hub genes, using the STRING database and CytoHubba plug-in, and we used the GSE66494 as a validation dataset. In addition, we constructed ceRNA, transcription factor (TF)-gene, and drug-gene networks using Cytoscape. Lastly, we conducted immunohistochemical analysis and western blotting to validate the hub genes. We identified 57 PANoptosis-associated genes as DE-PRGs. We screened nine hub genes from the 57 DE-PRGs. We identified two hub genes (FOS and PTGS2) using the GSE66494 database, Nephroseq, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. A common miRNA (Hsa-miR-101-3p) and three TFs (CREB1, E2F1, and RELA) may play a crucial role in the onset and progression of PANoptosis-related CKD. In our analysis of the drug-gene network, we identified eight drugs targeting FOS and 52 drugs targeting PTGS2.
Fecal microbiota transplantation from protozoa-exposed donors downregulates immune response in a germ-free mouse model, its role in immune response and physiology of the intestine
Authors: Partida-Rodríguez Oswaldo , Brown Eric M. , Woodward Sarah E. , Cirstea Mihai , Reynolds Lisa A. , Petersen Charisse , Vogt Stefanie L. , Peña-Díaz Jorge , Thorson Lisa , Arrieta Marie-Claire , Hernández Eric G. , Rojas-Velázquez Liliana , Moran Patricia , González Rivas Enrique , Serrano-Vázquez Angélica , Pérez-Juárez Horacio , Torres Javier , Ximénez Cecilia , Finlay B. B.
Published: October 2024

Intestinal parasites are part of the intestinal ecosystem and have been shown to establish close interactions with the intestinal microbiota. However, little is known about the influence of intestinal protozoa on the regulation of the immune response. In this study, we analyzed the regulation of the immune response of germ-free mice transplanted with fecal microbiota (FMT) from individuals with multiple parasitic protozoans (P) and non-parasitized individuals (NP). We determined the production of intestinal cytokines, the lymphocyte populations in both the colon and the spleen, and the genetic expression of markers of intestinal epithelial integrity. We observed a general downregulation of the intestinal immune response in mice receiving FMT-P. We found significantly lower intestinal production of the cytokines IL-6, TNF, IFN-γ, MCP-1, IL-10, and IL-12 in the FMT-P. Furthermore, a significant decrease in the proportion of CD3+, CD4+, and Foxp3+ T regulatory cells (Treg) was observed in both, the colon and spleen with FMT-P in contrast to FMT-NP. We also found that in FMT-P mice there was a significant decrease in tjp1 expression in all three regions of the small intestine; ocln in the ileum; reg3γ in the duodenum and relmβ in both the duodenum and ileum. We also found an increase in colonic mucus layer thickness in mice colonized with FMT-P in contrast with FMT-NP. Finally, our results suggest that gut protozoa, such as Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana, Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar, Iodamoeba bütschlii, and Chilomastix mesnili consortia affect the immunoinflammatory state and induce functional changes in the intestine via the gut microbiota. Likewise, it allows us to establish an FMT model in germ-free mice as a viable alternative to explore the effects that exposure to intestinal parasites could have on the immune response in humans.
Delineating the functional activity of antibodies with cross-reactivity to SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1 and related sarbecoviruses
Authors: Ruiz Felicitas , Foreman William B. , Lilly Michelle , Baharani Viren A. , Depierreux Delphine M. , Chohan Vrasha , Taylor Ashley L. , Guenthoer Jamie , Ralph Duncan , Matsen IV Frederick A. , Chu Helen Y. , Bieniasz Paul D. , Côté Marceline , Starr Tyler N. , Overbaugh Julie
Published: October 2024

The recurring spillover of pathogenic coronaviruses and demonstrated capacity of sarbecoviruses, such SARS-CoV-2, to rapidly evolve in humans underscores the need to better understand immune responses to this virus family. For this purpose, we characterized the functional breadth and potency of antibodies targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike glycoprotein that exhibited cross-reactivity against SARS-CoV-2 variants, SARS-CoV-1 and sarbecoviruses from diverse clades and animal origins with spillover potential. One neutralizing antibody, C68.61, showed remarkable neutralization breadth against both SARS-CoV-2 variants and viruses from different sarbecovirus clades. C68.61, which targets a conserved RBD class 5 epitope, did not select for escape variants of SARS-CoV-2 or SARS-CoV-1 in culture nor have predicted escape variants among circulating SARS-CoV-2 strains, suggesting this epitope is functionally constrained. We identified 11 additional SARS-CoV-2/SARS-CoV-1 cross-reactive antibodies that target the more sequence conserved class 4 and class 5 epitopes within RBD that show activity against a subset of diverse sarbecoviruses with one antibody binding every single sarbecovirus RBD tested. A subset of these antibodies exhibited Fc-mediated effector functions as potent as antibodies that impact infection outcome in animal models. Thus, our study identified antibodies targeting conserved regions across SARS-CoV-2 variants and sarbecoviruses that may serve as therapeutics for pandemic preparedness as well as blueprints for the design of immunogens capable of eliciting cross-neutralizing responses.
Effect of sowing methods, spacings, and fertilizer levels on quantitative and qualitative traits and economics of brown top millet (Brachiaria ramosa L.) under different cropping seasons
Authors: Abhigna Dokka , Kalpana Rengabashyam , Geetha Padmanaban , Janaki Ponnusamy , Radhamani Sengodan , Ravichandran Veerasamy
Published: October 2024

A field study was conducted during the Summer, Kharif, and Rabi seasons of 2023-2024 to evaluate brown top millet under two sowing methods (direct sowing and transplantation), three spacing configurations (20 x 10, 30 x 10 and 45 x 10 cm), and three fertilizer doses (75% of the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) (45:20:15 kg ha-1), 100% RDF (60:30:20 kg ha-1), and 125% RDF (75:40:25 kg ha-1)). The study was designed as a factorial randomized complete block design assessing growth, yield, thiamine content, and economics. The results indicated that the summer season was more favorable for growth than the Kharif and Rabi seasons. Direct sown crops (E1) exhibited significantly higher growth attributes, yield, and economics than transplanted crops (E2). The spacing configuration of 45 x 10 cm (S3) recorded significantly superior growth and yield parameters compared to 20 x 10 cm (S1). Applying 125% RDF (N3) resulted in significantly enhanced growth, yield, quality, and economic return compared to 75% RDF. Among the interactions, the combination of direct sown with narrow spacing and 125% RDF (E1 x S1 x N3) led to significantly higher growth parameters. In comparison, the combination of direct sowing with wider spacing and 125% RDF (E1 x S3 x N3) resulted in higher grain yields (2005, 1759, 1548 kg ha-1) and benefit-cost ratios (2.64, 2.58, and 2.58) across the same seasons. However, the differences in grain yield among the treatment combinations were statistically non-significant. These findings provide a valuable foundation for future research and agricultural practices aimed at maximizing the potential of brown top millet.
Influence of climate change on water quality in Terra Nova River basin, Pernambuco, Brazil
Authors: Tôrres Silveira Nara , Silva Soares Gabriel Antonio , Almeida Bandim Camila Gardenea de , Campelo de Santana Sidney Henrique , Galvíncio Josicleda Domiciano
Published: October 2024

Climate changes tend to intensify water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions, making water management in these areas more challenging, directly influencing hydrological dynamics, causing impacts on ecosystems and society. The Terra Nova River basin is crucial for the water security of the semi-arid region of Pernambuco, especially after the construction of the São Francisco River Integration Project (PISF), which saw the construction of six reservoirs to supply water for human consumption, agricultural, and industrial activities. Therefore, this study aims to analyzes the impacts of climate changes on water quality in the Terra Nova River basin in Pernambuco, using long-term data from the Hydrological Response Unit System for Pernambuco (SUPer). The ARIMA (Autoregressive Integrated Moving Averages) model is employed to predict water quality parameters in climate change scenarios, using data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz). The variables include air temperature, precipitation, dissolved oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Simulated scenarios were compared with CONAMA No. 357/2005 limits, revealing potential decreases in dissolved oxygen and phosphorus concentrations, alongside an increase in nitrogen concentrations. Irregular rainfall rates, high air temperatures, and evapotranspiration, combined with conflicts by water resources, may exacerbate water access issues in the semi-arid region, worsening the water crisis and threatening water security.
Central Bank Digital Currencies: Experimental Evidence of Deposit Conversion
Authors: Shakina Ekaterina , Hanke Michael , Ellis Scott
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we provide unique experimental evidence of depositors’ behaviour in presence of a possibility to convert commercial bank deposits into central bank digital currency (CBDC). Theoretically and experimentally we analyse whether such an option incentivises bank runs. We find that the availability of the deposit conversion option does not lead to a significant outflow of deposits. However, when conversion is restricted, depositors are eager to actively use it as a coordination tool. These findings highlight the importance of considering coordination and decision time in determining the choice to convert deposits into CBDC. Our study evidences that policy-makers should balance accessibility and control measures to maintain financial stability, ensuring that CBDC implementation supports the resilience of the banking system.
Design, synthesis, characterization, and theoretical calculations, along with in silico and in vitro antimicrobial proprieties of new isoxazole-amide conjugates
Authors: Barghady Najoua , Assou Soumia Ait , Er-Rajy Mohammed , Boujdi Khalid , Arzine Aziz , Rhazi Yassine , Tüzün Burak , Nakkabi Asmae , Chalkha Mohammed , El Hassouni Mohammed , Kabra Atul , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Baouid Abdesselam , El Yazidi Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Functionalized isoxazoles provide valuable structural motifs, opening up a wide range of uses in the medicinal, pharmacological, and pharmaceutical fields. Within this scope, an efficient approach has been adopted to synthesize a novel series of functionalized isoxazole derivatives, starting from aza-aurone, providing reproducible access to the desired isoxazoles in excellent yields. All synthesized compounds were structurally elucidated through the use of various spectroscopic techniques and mass spectrometry. The derivatives generated were screened for their antimicrobial potential against the fungus Candida albicans as well as three bacterial strains. The results show that almost all of the tested isoxazole derivatives were found to be significantly potent against the fungus C. albicans. The functionalized isoxazoles were also computed using the Gaussian software package with the 6-31++G(d,p) basis set at B3LYP, HF, and M062X levels, and their chemical activities were compared. Moreover, the molecular docking studies of tested isoxazole compounds were performed against the C. albicans receptor. The results suggest that the newly synthesized compounds exhibit docking scores ranging from −10.29 to −15.08 kcal/mol, revealing a high affinity for the target enzyme (5V5Z). Lastly, drug similarity studies and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) properties assessments indicate that isoxazole derivatives have favorable absorption, distribution, and metabolism properties associated with a proven lack of toxicity.
A felelősségteljes magatartás erősödése a turisták körében = Strengthening Responsible Behavior among Tourists
Authors:   University of Pécs, Faculty of Business and Economics, Institute of Marketing and Tourism, Gonda Tibor , Rátz Tamara ,   Kodolányi János University, Institute of Sustainable Economy, Department of Tourism
Published: October 2024

Examining today’s tourism, it should be noted that undesirable side effects have appeared and intensified, both from a social and environmental perspective. Maintaining the popularity of tourism and its further development requires change. This change must occur in both supply and consumer demand. In our study, we examine the extent to which the Hungarian population is open to exhibiting environmentally conscious and responsible consumer behavior during their travels. We analyze the results of key manifestations of responsible tourism and the attitude of the domestic population towards environmental awareness. Our study is particularly relevant as many host areas are already struggling with the negative effects of overtourism. Therefore, it is important to understand whether there is a willingness among tourism consumers to adopt more environmentally conscious and responsible consumer behavior.
A Hydraulic Gradient and Stress-Controlled Erosion Apparatus for Assessing Soil Internal Erosion
Authors: Marot Didier , Oli Bikram , Bendahmane Fateh , Gelet Rachel , Leroy Philippe
Published: October 2024

Among the four dominant mechanisms of internal erosion, suffusion appears as one of the most complex. It is indeed the result of the combination of three processes: dislodgement of fine particles, transport of them, and filtration of some fluidized fine particles. These processes depend on the soil’s stress state and on the hydraulic gradient path. Thus, to ensure the repeatability of the suffusion test and to study with accuracy the influence of the aforementioned parameters, a new apparatus was developed. This apparatus is designed to test specimens under a vertical downward flow in hydraulic gradient controlled condition while controlling the confining pressure and the stress deviator, which can be either positive or negative. Ten tests on one cohesionless soil were performed in triaxial conditions, with the same mean effective stress and four different values of stress deviator. To compare with conventional suffusion results, one test is also performed in rigid wall conditions. For all performed tests, the same hydraulic gradient path was applied and particular attention is paid to the repeatability, which implies control of each test step. At the end of each test, the specimen was divided into four layers to measure post-suffusion grain size distributions. The time evolutions of the hydraulic conductivity and the erosion rate permit to identify four different phases. Each phase is characterized by two methods: one based on the hydraulic gradient and the second based on the expended energy by the fluid. The results show the great influence on the suffusion kinetics of the preferential flow paths, which localize in the body of the specimen in triaxial conditions and on the circumference in rigid wall ones. Under a constant mean effective stress, the effect of the stress deviator on the suffusion kinetics appears limited, for the tested soil and shear stress ratios.
A Method for Determining Yield Stress of Unsaturated Soils from Lateral Pressure
Authors: Liu Yan , Wang Xiang , Zhao Yuxin , Chen Lihong , Li Xu
Published: October 2024

Predicting the stress–strain behavior of unsaturated soils is essential for determining yield stress. This paper explores a new method for determining the yield stress of unsaturated soils from the lateral pressure curve. A series of earth pressure at rest (K0) ondometer tests were conducted on unsaturated Yangqin silt clay. Lateral stress was obtained under different saturations and compactness. The relationship curves between lateral and vertical net stress were drawn for each condition. An obvious turning point was observed in the curve, which can be used to determine the yield stress. The oedometer tests were conducted, and the Casagrande and the bilogarithmic methods were used for comparison purposes. The difference between the proposed and traditional methods was less than 17 %. The initial saturation and compactness influence on the yield stress was discussed. The yield stress increased with the decrease in saturation and increases in compactness, which is consistent with that of the classic method. The test results and comparison prove the rationality of the proposed method. No coordinate transformation is required in the proposed method, which is more convenient for data processing. It can be used to determine the yield stress of unsaturated soils from another perspective.
Relationship Between Creativity and Depression: The Role of Reappraisal and Rumination
Authors: Lam Chin Yui , Saunders Jeffrey Allen
Published: October 2024

Previous research has found mixed evidence about whether increased creativity is associated with higher depression. We investigated the relationship between creativity and depression, and the role of two emotion regulation strategies: rumination and reappraisal. Previous research has found that rumination is a common factor that contributes to creativity and depression, which we attempted to replicate using a simplified model. No research has tested the relationship between reappraisal frequency and creativity. We hypothesized that controlling for reappraisal frequency could reduce the correlation between creativity and depression, or even reverse the relationship. To test the hypotheses, we measured creativity, self-reported rumination tendency and reappraisal frequency, and trait depression in an online survey of N=201 participants. We found a small overall negative association between creativity and depression. Further analysis found support for the hypothesis that self-reflective rumination is a common factor for creativity and depression. Rumination was associated with both creativity and depression, and there was no association between creativity and depression when self-reflective rumination was controlled. We found no association between reappraisal frequency and creativity, and no change to the relationship between creativity and depression when reappraisal frequency was controlled. Our results suggest that creativity and depression are only weakly associated, and that the emotional regulation strategy of self-reflective rumination, not reappraisal frequency, could account for the overall relation between creativity and depression.
The Seven-Year Twitch
Authors: Thompson Ryan , Plank Dana , Grasso Julianne , Cook Karen M.
Published: October 2024

In February 2024, the “Stream Team” of Ryan Thompson, Dana Plank, Julianne Grasso, and Karen Cook celebrated the seventh anniversary of the “Ludomusicology Thursday” livestream. These weekly broadcasts have evolved into a collegial gathering space engendering informal discussion of the soundscapes of the games we play, with a diverse audience. As we are scholars actively publishing on video games in musicology and music theory, our stream serves as an introduction to the field of game audio studies for students and the broader public. Livestreaming platforms are not only a convenient platform to connect with colleagues and develop a network of strong relationships outside of formal academic conferences, they are also a space to observe new music and sound and to develop ideas collaboratively, in real time, that might blossom into more formal, traditionally situated academic presentations and publications. In this article, we reflect on the history and evolution of our stream from its creation to the present day, share examples of our collaborative process of public scholarship on Twitch through moments of interesting musical observations or extemporaneous analysis, situate our stream in the context of public musicology by exploring how our experiences resonate with academic literature, and examine the significance of cultivating our collegial virtual community.