bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal data fusion using sparse canonical correlation analysis and cooperative learning: a COVID-19 cohort study
Authors: Er Ahmet Gorkem , Ding Daisy Yi , Er Berrin , Uzun Mertcan , Cakmak Mehmet , Sadee Christoph , Durhan Gamze , Ozmen Mustafa Nasuh , Tanriover Mine Durusu , Topeli Arzu , Aydin Son Yesim , Tibshirani Robert , Unal Serhat , Gevaert Olivier
Published: May 2024

Through technological innovations, patient cohorts can be examined from multiple views with high-dimensional, multiscale biomedical data to classify clinical phenotypes and predict outcomes. Here, we aim to present our approach for analyzing multimodal data using unsupervised and supervised sparse linear methods in a COVID-19 patient cohort. This prospective cohort study of 149 adult patients was conducted in a tertiary care academic center. First, we used sparse canonical correlation analysis (CCA) to identify and quantify relationships across different data modalities, including viral genome sequencing, imaging, clinical data, and laboratory results. Then, we used cooperative learning to predict the clinical outcome of COVID-19 patients: Intensive care unit admission. We show that serum biomarkers representing severe disease and acute phase response correlate with original and wavelet radiomics features in the LLL frequency channel (cor(Xu1, Zv1) = 0.596, p value < 0.001). Among radiomics features, histogram-based first-order features reporting the skewness, kurtosis, and uniformity have the lowest negative, whereas entropy-related features have the highest positive coefficients. Moreover, unsupervised analysis of clinical data and laboratory results gives insights into distinct clinical phenotypes. Leveraging the availability of global viral genome databases, we demonstrate that the Word2Vec natural language processing model can be used for viral genome encoding. It not only separates major SARS-CoV-2 variants but also allows the preservation of phylogenetic relationships among them. Our quadruple model using Word2Vec encoding achieves better prediction results in the supervised task. The model yields area under the curve (AUC) and accuracy values of 0.87 and 0.77, respectively. Our study illustrates that sparse CCA analysis and cooperative learning are powerful techniques for handling high-dimensional, multimodal data to investigate multivariate associations in unsupervised and supervised tasks.
Strong economic incentives of ship scrubbers promoting pollution
Authors: Lunde Hermansson Anna , Hassellöv Ida-Maja , Grönholm Tiia , Jalkanen Jukka-Pekka , Fridell Erik , Parsmo Rasmus , Hassellöv Jesper , Ytreberg Erik
Published: May 2024

In response to stricter regulations on ship air emissions, many shipowners have installed exhaust gas cleaning systems, known as scrubbers, allowing for use of cheap residual heavy fuel oil. Scrubbers produce large volumes of acidic and polluted water that is discharged to the sea. Due to environmental concerns, the use of scrubbers is being discussed within the International Maritime Organization. Real-world simulations of global scrubber-vessel activity, applying actual fuel costs and expenses related to scrubber operations, show that 51% of the global scrubber-fitted fleet reached economic break even by the end of 2022, with a surplus of €4.7 billion in 2019 euros. Within five years after installation, more than 95% of the ships with the most common scrubber systems reach break even. However, the marine ecotoxicity damage cost, from scrubber water discharge in the Baltic Sea Area 2014–2022, amounts to >€680 million in 2019 euros, showing that private economic interests come at the expense of marine environmental damage.
C–heteroatom coupling with electron-rich aryls enabled by nickel catalysis and light
Authors: Ni Shengyang , Halder Riya , Ahmadli Dilgam , Reijerse Edward J. , Cornella Josep , Ritter Tobias
Published: May 2024

Nickel photoredox catalysis has resulted in a rich development of transition-metal-catalysed transformations for carbon–heteroatom bond formation. By harnessing light energy, the transition metal can attain oxidation states that are difficult to achieve through thermal chemistry in a catalytic manifold. For example, nickel photoredox reactions have been reported for both the synthesis of anilines and aryl ethers from aryl(pseudo)halides. However, oxidative addition to simple nickel systems is often sluggish in the absence of special, electron-rich ligands, leading to catalyst decomposition. Electron-rich aryl electrophiles therefore currently fall outside the scope of many transformations in the field. Here we provide a conceptual solution to this problem and demonstrate nickel-catalysed C–heteroatom bond-forming reactions of arylthianthrenium salts, including amination, oxygenation, sulfuration and halogenation. Because the redox properties of arylthianthrenium salts are primarily dictated by the thianthrenium, oxidative addition of highly electron-rich aryl donors can be unlocked using simple NiCl2 under light irradiation to form the desired C‒heteroatom bonds.
E4BP4 in macrophages induces an anti-inflammatory phenotype that ameliorates the severity of colitis
Authors: Kajimura Yasuko , Taguchi Akihiko , Nagao Yuko , Yamamoto Kaoru , Masuda Konosuke , Shibata Kensuke , Asaoka Yoichi , Furutani-Seiki Makoto , Tanizawa Yukio , Ohta Yasuharu
Published: May 2024

Macrophages are versatile cells of the innate immune system that work by altering their pro- or anti-inflammatory features. Their dysregulation leads to inflammatory disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease. We show that macrophage-specific upregulation of the clock output gene and transcription factor E4BP4 reduces the severity of colitis in mice. RNA-sequencing and single-cell analyses of macrophages revealed that increased expression of E4BP4 leads to an overall increase in expression of anti-inflammatory genes including Il4ra with a concomitant reduction in pro-inflammatory gene expression. In contrast, knockout of E4BP4 in macrophages leads to increased proinflammatory gene expression and decreased expression of anti-inflammatory genes. ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq analyses further identified Il4ra as a target of E4BP4, which drives anti-inflammatory polarization in macrophages. Together, these results reveal a critical role for E4BP4 in regulating macrophage inflammatory phenotypes and resolving inflammatory bowel diseases.
Midkine promotes renal fibrosis by stabilizing C/EBPβ to facilitate endothelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Xu Cuidi , Chen Juntao , Liang Lifei , Chen Siyue , Niu Xinhao , Sang Ruirui , Yang Cheng , Rong Ruiming
Published: May 2024

Numerous myofibroblasts are arisen from endothelial cells (ECs) through endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) triggered by TGF-β. However, the mechanism of ECs transforms to a different subtype, or whether there exists an intermediate state of ECs remains unclear. In present study, we demonstrate Midkine (MDK) mainly expressed by CD31 + ACTA2+ECs going through partial EndMT contribute greatly to myofibroblasts by spatial and single-cell transcriptomics. MDK is induced in TGF-β treated ECs, which upregulates C/EBPβ and increases EndMT genes, and these effects could be reversed by siMDK. Mechanistically, MDK promotes the binding ability of C/EBPβ with ACTA2 promoter by stabilizing the C/EBPβ protein. In vivo, knockout of Mdk or conditional knockout of Mdk in ECs reduces EndMT markers and significantly reverses fibrogenesis. In conclusion, our study provides a mechanistic link between the induction of EndMT by TGF-β and MDK, which suggests that blocking MDK provides potential therapeutic strategies for renal fibrosis.
Genetic association analysis of human median voice pitch identifies a common locus for tonal and non-tonal languages
Authors: Di Yazheng , Mefford Joel , Rahmani Elior , Wang Jinhan , Ravi Vijay , Gorla Aditya , Alwan Abeer , Zhu Tingshao , Flint Jonathan
Published: May 2024

The genetic influence on human vocal pitch in tonal and non-tonal languages remains largely unknown. In tonal languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, pitch changes differentiate word meanings, whereas in non-tonal languages, such as Icelandic, pitch is used to convey intonation. We addressed this question by searching for genetic associations with interindividual variation in median pitch in a Chinese major depression case-control cohort and compared our results with a genome-wide association study from Iceland. The same genetic variant, rs11046212-T in an intron of the ABCC9 gene, was one of the most strongly associated loci with median pitch in both samples. Our meta-analysis revealed four genome-wide significant hits, including two novel associations. The discovery of genetic variants influencing vocal pitch across both tonal and non-tonal languages suggests the possibility of a common genetic contribution to the human vocal system shared in two distinct populations with languages that differ in tonality (Icelandic and Mandarin).
Circ-0075305 hinders gastric cancer stem cells by indirectly disrupting TCF4–β-catenin complex and downregulation of SOX9
Authors: Chen Qi-Yue , Xu Kai-Xiang , Huang Xiao-Bo , Fan Deng-Hui , Chen Yu-Jing , Li Yi-Fan , Huang Qiang , Liu Zhi-Yu , Zheng Hua-Long , Huang Ze-Ning , Lin Ze-Hong , Wang Yu-Xiang , Yang Jun-Jie , Zhong Qing , Huang Chang-Ming
Published: May 2024

CircRNAs are covalently closed, single-stranded RNA that form continuous loops and play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of tumors. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are indispensable for cancer development; however, the regulation of cancer stem cell-like properties in gastric cancer (GC) and its specific mechanism remain poorly understood. We elucidate the specific role of Circ-0075305 in GC stem cell properties. Circ-0075305 associated with chemotherapy resistance was identified by sequencing GC cells. Subsequent confirmation in both GC tissues and cell lines revealed that patients with high expression of Circ-0075305 had significantly better overall survival (OS) rates than those with low expression, particularly when treated with postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for GC. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that overexpression of Circ-0075305 can effectively reduce stem cell-like properties and enhance the sensitivity of GC cells to Oxaliplatin compared with the control group. Circ-0075305 promotes RPRD1A expression by acting as a sponge for corresponding miRNAs. The addition of LF3 (a β-catenin/TCF4 interaction antagonist) confirmed that RPRD1A inhibited the formation of the TCF4–β-catenin transcription complex through competitive to β-catenin and suppressed the transcriptional activity of stem cell markers such as SOX9 via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This leads to the downregulation of stem cell-like property-related markers in GC. This study revealed the underlying mechanisms that regulate Circ-0075305 in GCSCs and suggests that its role in reducing β-catenin signaling may serve as a potential therapeutic candidate.
Chemogenetic activation of mammalian brain neurons expressing insect Ionotropic Receptors by systemic ligand precursor administration
Authors: Iguchi Yoshio , Fukabori Ryoji , Kato Shigeki , Takahashi Kazumi , Eifuku Satoshi , Maejima Yuko , Shimomura Kenju , Mizuma Hiroshi , Mawatari Aya , Doi Hisashi , Cui Yilong , Onoe Hirotaka , Hikishima Keigo , Osanai Makoto , Nishijo Takuma , Momiyama Toshihiko , Benton Richard , Kobayashi Kazuto
Published: May 2024

Chemogenetic approaches employing ligand-gated ion channels are advantageous regarding manipulation of target neuronal population functions independently of endogenous second messenger pathways. Among them, Ionotropic Receptor (IR)-mediated neuronal activation (IRNA) allows stimulation of mammalian neurons that heterologously express members of the insect chemosensory IR repertoire in response to their cognate ligands. In the original protocol, phenylacetic acid, a ligand of the IR84a/IR8a complex, was locally injected into a brain region due to its low permeability of the blood-brain barrier. To circumvent this invasive injection, we sought to develop a strategy of peripheral administration with a precursor of phenylacetic acid, phenylacetic acid methyl ester, which is efficiently transferred into the brain and converted to the mature ligand by endogenous esterase activities. This strategy was validated by electrophysiological, biochemical, brain-imaging, and behavioral analyses, demonstrating high utility of systemic IRNA technology in the remote activation of target neurons in the brain.
Aging-regulated PNUTS maintains endothelial barrier function via SEMA3B suppression
Authors: Lozano-Vidal Noelia , Stanicek Laura , Bink Diewertje I. , Juni Rio P. , Hooglugt Aukie , Kremer Veerle , Phelp Philippa , van Bergen Anke , MacInnes Alyson W. , Dimmeler Stefanie , Boon Reinier A.
Published: May 2024

Age-related diseases pose great challenges to health care systems worldwide. During aging, endothelial senescence increases the risk for cardiovascular disease. Recently, it was described that Phosphatase 1 Nuclear Targeting Subunit (PNUTS) has a central role in cardiomyocyte aging and homeostasis. Here, we determine the role of PNUTS in endothelial cell aging. We confirm that PNUTS is repressed in senescent endothelial cells (ECs). Moreover, PNUTS silencing elicits several of the hallmarks of endothelial aging: senescence, reduced angiogenesis and loss of barrier function. Findings are validate in vivo using endothelial-specific inducible PNUTS-deficient mice (Cdh5-CreERT2;PNUTSfl/fl), termed PNUTSEC-KO. Two weeks after PNUTS deletion, PNUTSEC-KO mice present severe multiorgan failure and vascular leakage. Transcriptomic analysis of PNUTS-silenced HUVECs and lungs of PNUTSEC-KO mice reveal that the PNUTS-PP1 axis tightly regulates the expression of semaphorin 3B (SEMA3B). Indeed, silencing of SEMA3B completely restores barrier function after PNUTS loss-of-function. These results reveal a pivotal role for PNUTS in endothelial homeostasis through a SEMA3B downstream pathway that provides a potential target against the effects of aging in ECs.
Palmitic acid induces lipid droplet accumulation and senescence in nucleus pulposus cells via ER-stress pathway
Authors: Chen Xi , Chen Kun , Hu Jun , Dong Yijun , Zheng Menglong , Jiang Jiang , Hu Qingsong , Zhang Wenzhi
Published: May 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal disorder affecting millions of adults worldwide, but a poor understanding of its pathogenesis has limited the effectiveness of therapy. In the current study, we integrated untargeted LC/MS metabolomics and magnetic resonance spectroscopy data to investigate metabolic profile alterations during IDD. Combined with validation via a large-cohort analysis, we found excessive lipid droplet accumulation in the nucleus pulposus cells of advanced-stage IDD samples. We also found abnormal palmitic acid (PA) accumulation in IDD nucleus pulposus cells, and PA exposure resulted in lipid droplet accumulation and cell senescence in an endoplasmic reticulum stress-dependent manner. Complementary transcriptome and proteome profiles enabled us to identify solute carrier transporter (SLC) 43A3 involvement in the regulation of the intracellular PA level. SLC43A3 was expressed at low levels and negatively correlated with intracellular lipid content in IDD nucleus pulposus cells. Overexpression of SLC43A3 significantly alleviated PA-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipid droplet accumulation and cell senescence by inhibiting PA uptake. This work provides novel integration analysis-based insight into the metabolic profile alterations in IDD and further reveals new therapeutic targets for IDD treatment.
Structural origins of dielectric anomalies in the filled tetragonal tungsten bronze Sr2NaNb5O15
Authors: Tidey Jeremiah P. , Dey Urmimala , Sanchez Ana M. , Chen Wei-Tin , Chen Bo-Hao , Chuang Yu-Chun , Fernandez-Diaz Maria T. , Bristowe Nicholas C. , Beanland Richard , Senn Mark S.
Published: May 2024

The tetragonal tungsten bronze, Sr2NaNb5O15, shows promise for application in high-temperature high-efficiency capacitors vital for the sustainable energy revolution. Previously, the structural complexity of this and related materials has obscured the mechanisms underpinning two large anomalies in relative permittivity (εr) which give rise to their exceptionally broad dielectric response. Here, we comprehensively investigate the structural evolution from −173 to 627 °C, combining electron, X-ray and neutron diffraction, electron microscopy, and first principles electronic structure calculations to unambiguously identify the structural origins of both anomalies. The peak in εr at 305 °C is associated with a polar-nonpolar phase transition, wherein cations displace along the c axis. Guided by DFT, we identify a further transition upon cooling, associated with the second peak at −14 °C, linked to the softening of an in-plane polar distortion with a correlation length limited by ferroelastic nano-domains arising from rigid-unit-like tilting of NbO6 octahedra at high temperature, imparting relaxor-like behaviour. Thus, the two dielectric anomalies in Sr2NaNb5O15 are associated with two distinct crystallographic phase transitions and their interplay with a microstructure that arises from a third, non-polar structural distortion. Chemical control of these will enable development of tuneable materials with dielectric properties suitable for high-temperature energy storage applications.
Neurocognitive consequences of adolescent sleep disruptions and their relationship to psychosis vulnerability: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Ouellet Julien , Assaf Roxane , Afzali Mohammad H. , Nourbakhsh Sima , Potvin Stéphane , Conrod Patricia
Published: May 2024

Adolescence is a key period for neurocognitive maturation where deviation from normal developmental trajectories may be tied to adverse mental health outcomes. Cognitive disruptions have been noted in populations at risk for psychosis and are known to accompany periods of sleep deprivation. This study aims to assess the role of cognition as a mediator between sleep disruptions and psychosis risk. A cohort of 3801 high school students (51% female, mean age = 12.8, SD = 0.45 years) was recruited from 31 Montreal high schools. Measures of sleep, psychotic-like experiences, inhibition, working memory, perceptual reasoning, and delayed recall were collected from participants on a yearly basis over the five years of their high school education. A multi-level model mediation analysis was performed controlling for sex and time squared. Response inhibition was shown to be associated with, and to mediate (B = −0.005, SD = 0.003, p = 0.005*) the relationship between sleep disruptions (B = −0.011, SD = 0.004, p < 0.001*) and psychotic-like experiences (B = 0.411, SD = 0.170, p = 0.005*). Spatial working memory deficits on a given year were associated with a higher frequency of psychotic-like experiences that same year (B = −0.046, SD = 0.018, p = 0.005*) and the following year (B = −0.051, SD = 0.023, p = 0.010*), but were not associated with sleep disturbances. No significant associations were found between our variables of interest and either delayed recall or perceptual reasoning at the within person level. Findings from this large longitudinal study provide evidence that the association between sleep disruptions and psychosis risk is specifically mediated by inhibitory rather than general cognitive impairments. The association of spatial working memory, response inhibition, and sleep disruptions with psychotic-like experiences suggests that these factors may represent potential targets for preventative interventions.
Demographic fluctuations in bloodstream Staphylococcus aureus lineages configure the mobile gene pool and antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Souza Stephanie S. R. , Smith Joshua T. , Marcovici Michael M. , Eckhardt Elissa M. , Hansel Nicole B. , Martin Isabella W. , Andam Cheryl P.
Published: May 2024

Staphylococcus aureusin the bloodstream causes high morbidity and mortality, exacerbated by the spread of multidrug-resistant and methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA). We aimed to characterize the circulating lineages ofS. aureusfrom bloodstream infections and the contribution of individual lineages to resistance over time. Here, we generated 852 high-quality short-read draft genome sequences ofS. aureusisolates from patient blood cultures in a single hospital from 2010 to 2022. A total of 80 previously recognized sequence types (ST) and five major clonal complexes are present in the population. Two frequently detected lineages, ST5 and ST8 exhibited fluctuating demographic structures throughout their histories. The rise and fall in their population growth coincided with the acquisition of antimicrobial resistance, mobile genetic elements, and superantigen genes, thus shaping the accessory genome structure across the entire population. These results reflect undetected selective events and changing ecology of multidrug-resistantS. aureusin the bloodstream.
Recent developments in pyrene-based fluorescence recognition and imaging of Ag+ and Pb2+ ions: Synthesis, applications and challenges
Authors: Paul Suvendu , Barman Prasenjit , Dey Nilanjan , Watkinson Michael
Published: May 2024

This review article summarizes the chronological progress on pyrene based small molecule chemosensors for the colorimetric and fluorescent detection of silver and lead ions.
A homochiral tartrate-bridged dinuclear chromium(iii) complex anion with a resonance-assisted hydrogen bond for proton conduction
Authors: Dunatov Marko , Zhao Zhibo , Žilić Dijana , Androš Dubraja Lidija
Published: May 2024

The electrical responsiveness of the structural transformations of a sodium l-tartrate-chromium(iii) compound to external triggers such as relative humidity reflects its structural flexibility achieved through non-covalent interactions.
Preparation of inorganic molten salt composite phase change materials and study on their electrothermal conversion properties
Authors: Zuo Jiandong , Luo Hongjie , Ling Ziye , Zhang Zhengguo , Fang Xiaoming , Zhang Weiwei
Published: May 2024

The EG conductive pathway enables CPCM to achieve direct electrical heating for energy storage and to regulate the temperature module uniformity through electric field control.
Enhancing anti-angiogenic immunotherapy for melanoma through injectable metal–organic framework hydrogel co-delivery of combretastatin A4 and poly(I:C)
Authors: Xiao Xufeng , Zheng Yunuo , Wang Tianlong , Zhang Xiaoqing , Fang Gaochuan , Zhang Zhonghai , Zhang Zhengkui , Zhao Jiaojiao
Published: May 2024

The combination approach utilizing a ZIF-8/HA injectable hydrogel to co-deliver CA4 and PIC can enhance therapeutic effects by inhibiting tumor vascularization and boosting macrophage-mediated anti-tumor responses.
Morphological and structural design through hard-templating of PGM-free electrocatalysts for AEMFC applications
Authors: Honig Hilah C. , Mostoni Silvia , Presman Yan , Snitkoff-Sol Rifael Z. , Valagussa Paolo , D'Arienzo Massimiliano , Scotti Roberto , Santoro Carlo , Muhyuddin Mohsin , Elbaz Lior
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the critical role of customized materials design and synthesis methods in influencing the performance of electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs).
Cooperation between the Cu+ and Cu2+ species in CuCoAl layered double hydroxide and the substrate promoting effect afford a really simple protocol for the efficient synthesis of quinazolines
Authors: Zhou Xue , Qian Fei , Zhou Weiyou , Wang Anwei , Hou Tao , Tian Xiaoting , Ji Shuliang , He Mingyang , Qian Junfeng
Published: May 2024

Cooperation between the Cu+ and Cu2+ species in CuCoAl-LDH and the substrate promoting effect afford a simple synthesis protocol for quinazolines.
Sodium halide solid state electrolyte of Na3YBr6 with low activation energy
Authors: Niu Xiang-Yu , Dou Xin-Yi , Fu Cheng-Yu , Xu Yi-Chun , Feng Xu-Yong
Published: May 2024

Vibration of Br− during the Na+ ion migration can significantly reduce ion migration activation energy. Therefore, compared to chlorides, bromide should be able to achieve lower migration activation energy and higher Na+ ion conduction.
CoH-catalyzed asymmetric remote hydroalkylation of heterocyclic alkenes: a rapid approach to chiral five-membered S- and O-heterocycles
Authors: Zhao Lingzi , Liu Feipeng , Zhuang Yan , Shen Mengyang , Xue Jing , Wang Xuchao , Zhang Yuting , Rong Zi-Qiang
Published: May 2024

A highly efficient method achieves precise construction of alkyl chiral centers at remote C3-positions in five-membered S/O-heterocyclesviacobalt-catalyzed asymmetric remote hydroalkylation of heterocyclic alkenes.
Photophysics of fluorescent nanoparticles based on organic dyes – challenges and design principles
Authors: Stenspil Stine G. , Laursen Bo W.
Published: May 2024

Fluorescent dye based nanoparticles have high potential for many applications. Here we highlight key photophysical challenges and design principles to keep in mind in the search for new brightly fluorescent nanoparticles.
Charge-regulated fluorescent anchors enable high-fidelity tracking of plasma membrane dynamics during biological events
Authors: Zuo Jiaqi , Peng Aohui , Wu Penglei , Chen Junyi , Yao Chuangye , Pan Junjun , Zhu Engao , Weng Yingye , Zhang Kewei , Feng Hui , Jin Zhigang , Qian Zhaosheng
Published: May 2024

A universal design strategy was established in which the ability to anchor to the plasma membrane is well regulated by the charge of the fluorescent dyes. The designed dye can monitor the biological events and metabolic processes in vivo.
Synergistic interface and structural engineering for high initial coulombic efficiency and stable sodium storage in metal sulfides
Authors: Ma Chunrong , Fu Zhengguang , Fan Yanchen , Li Hui , Ma Zifeng , Jiang Wei , Han Guangshuai , Ben Haoxi , Xiong Hui (Claire)
Published: May 2024

A novel approach involving surface engineering, termed as the “dual-polar confinement” strategy, combined with interface engineering to enhance the electrochemical performance of TMS.
Co-doped MnS/NiS/Ni3S2 grown in situ on hydrophilic nickel foam for energy-efficient urea-assisted alkaline hydrogen production
Authors: Ma Haojie , Boda Muzaffar Ahmad , Zhou Yang , Shi Chenhao , Yi Zhiguo
Published: May 2024

The Co-MnS/NiS/Ni3S2/HNF heterostructure electrocatalyst exhibits remarkable catalytic activity and catalytic stability as a self-supported bifunctional electrode for UOR and HER.
A “three in one” strategy realized using a fluorinated gold-doped titanium silicalite layer on a copper current collector for stable lithium metal batteries
Authors: Jin Xiaopan , Huang Gaoxu , Zhao Xianming , Liu Honghao , Wang Rongjie , Guan Mengjia , Li Yongsheng
Published: May 2024

Long cycle life was realized on a fluorinated, Au doped titanium silicalite modified Cu (ATSF-5/Cu) current collector by Li affinity of Au nanoparticles, microporous properties of titanium silicalite and the formation of the LiF-rich SEI layer.
A review of current developments in graphene oxide–polysulfone derived membranes for water remediation
Authors: Zubair Muhammad , Farooq Sadia , Hussain Ajaz , Riaz Sadia , Ullah Aman
Published: May 2024

Water pollution has become a major issue due to the presence of hazardous pollutants resulting from ever-increasing industrial growth, and researchers are actively seeking innovative solutions for water treatment.
Mechanism and regulation of tensile-induced degradation of flexible perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhang Meihe , Qiang Yuzhao , Li Zhihao , Li Zhen , Zhang Chao
Published: May 2024

Cracks induced by tensile stress in functional layers cause performance degradation in flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSC). FPSCs with a D-PAA/C-EA modified SnO2 layer exhibit nearly double the device failure strain compared to the original FPSCs.
Antiviral effect of baicalein on Porcine Deltacoronavirus infection by regulating the inflammatory responses through PI3K-Akt-NF-κB signaling pathway in cultured cells
Authors: Liu Hejuan , Wei Zhanyong , Shi Chenxi , Xia Lu , Zhang Yunfei , Wang Jing , Wang Meile , Yin Sugai , Ren Xianqing
Published: May 2024

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an newly emerged enteropathogenic coronavirus, mainly causing diarrhea in suckling piglets, and also has the potential for cross-species transmission. However, there are no effective vaccines or specific therapeutic agents for PDCoV. This study investigates the antiviral properties of baicalein against PDCoV infection in swine testicle cells (ST). It reveals that baicalein exerts a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on PDCoV replication, primarily targeting the replication stage of the viral infection by impeding viral RNA and protein synthesis. Furthermore, treatment with baicalein leads to reduced phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB p65 proteins, along with decreased mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α). These results signify that PDCoV replication is inhibited through the inhibition of the PI3K-Akt-NF-κB protein signaling pathway, thereby suppressing the inflammatory response. In conclusion, it underscores the potential of baicalein as a therapeutic candidate for treating PDCoV infection.
Safety-Seeking Behaviors and Anxiety Maintenance in People With Aphasia: A Viewpoint
Authors: Jewell Courtney C. , Harnish Stacy M.
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

People with aphasia (PWA) often experience higher levels of anxiety and social isolation than people without aphasia. Although the presence of anxiety is appreciated in PWA, literature examining the etiology and persistent nature of anxiety in PWA is underdeveloped. Safety-seeking behaviors, or maladaptive acts used by individuals to decrease anxiety from a feared outcome, have been reported as key facilitators of long-term anxiety toward feared situations across a variety of clinical populations. The purpose of this viewpoint is to explore the concept of safety-seeking behaviors and discuss their potential relevance to the maintenance of anxiety in PWA. We further discuss the distinction between maladaptive (i.e., safety seeking) and adaptive (i.e., coping) behaviors and how this knowledge may improve the quality of clinical services for PWA.

Conclusions:

The present review advocates for further exploration of the safety-seeking behaviors that are used by PWA. Until critical attention is given to this subject, clinicians may remain ill-equipped to identify and depict whether a self-management strategy is facilitative or inhibitive to PWA's communicative participation goals. Critically, a behavior that may be “maladaptive” for one individual may be “adaptive” for another. Future research should seek to identify common behavioral and cognitive strategies that PWA implement to reduce acute perceptions of anxiety. This knowledge may help facilitate holistic aphasia rehabilitation by allowing clinicians to foster conversations around behaviors that inhibit or promote successful communicative participation.
A Comparison of In-Person and Remote Administration Results of the SCAN–3 for Adolescents and Adults: Tests for Auditory Processing Disorders Screening Subtests
Authors: Hatcher Allison , Weiler Brian
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

Many standardized assessments in speech-language pathology can be administered via telepractice. However, the literature is limited on reporting the equivalency of assessment administration between in-person and remote testing. The SCAN–3 for Adolescents and Adults: Tests for Auditory Processing Disorders (SCAN-3:A) is widely used by speech-language pathologists and audiologists to screen for auditory processing disorder (APD). The purpose of this study was to compare in-person and remote administration results on the screening subtests of the SCAN-3:A to determine test–retest consistency across the two settings.

Method:

Eleven undergraduate and graduate students with normal hearing were administered the Gap Detection, Competing Words–Free Recall (CW-FR) and Auditory Figure Ground (AFG) screening subtests from the SCAN-3:A both in-person and via telepractice with the order counterbalanced across administrations. Specific modifications were made to accommodate remote assessment.

Results:

Screening pass/fail decisions were above 80% agreement for each of the three subtests. Significant correlations (
p
< .05) between in-person and remote scores were found for the CW-FR and AFG subtests. The mean score difference between administration type was not significant for the CW-FR subtest (
p =
.921) but was significant for the AFG subtest (
p
< .05).

Conclusions:

These preliminary findings provide tentative, partial support for remote administration of the SCAN-3:A with adherence to specific recommendations. Some technical challenges were reported as well as other logistical limitations associated with remote administration. Recommendations to accommodate telepractice considerations for remote screening of APD are provided.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25632135
Diversity of Research Participant Gender, Race, and Ethnicity in Communication Sciences and Disorders: A Systematic Review and Quantitative Synthesis of American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Publications in 2020
Authors: Millager Ryan A. , Feldman Jacob I. , Williams Zachary J. , Shibata Kiiya , Martinez-Torres Keysha A. , Bryan Katherine M. , Pruett Dillon G. , Mitchell Jade T. , Markfeld Jennifer E. , Merritt Brooke , Daniels Derek E. , Jones Robin M. , Woynaroski Tiffany
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

One manifestation of systemic inequities in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) is the chronic underreporting and underrepresentation of sex, gender, race, and ethnicity in research. The present study characterized recent demographic reporting practices and representation of participants across CSD research.

Method:

We systematically reviewed and extracted key reporting and participant data from empirical studies conducted in the United States with human participants published in the year 2020 in journals by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA; 407 articles comprising a total of 80,058 research participants, search completed in November 2021). Sex, gender, race, and ethnicity were operationalized per National Institutes of Health guidelines.

Results:

Sex or gender was reported in 85.5% of included studies; race in 33.7%; and ethnicity in 13.8%. Sex and gender were clearly differentiated in 3.4% of relevant studies. Where reported, median proportions for race and ethnicity were significantly different from the U.S. population, with underrepresentation noted for all non-White racial groups and Hispanic participants. Moreover, 64.7% of studies that reported sex or gender and 67.2% of studies that reported race or ethnicity did not consider these respective variables in analyses or discussions.

Conclusions:

At present, research published in ASHA journals frequently fails to report key demographic data summarizing the characteristics of participants. Moreover, apparent gaps in the representation of minoritized racial and ethnic groups threaten the external validity of CSD research and broader health care equity endeavors in the United States. Although our study is limited to a single year and publisher, our results point to several steps for readers that may bring greater accountability, consistency, and diversity to the discipline.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25718412
Maritime distress target detection algorithm based on YOLOv5s‐EFOE network
Authors: Liu Kun , Ma Hongru , Xu Guofeng , Li Jianglong
Published: May 2024

Traditional maritime search and rescue methods mainly rely on manual operation, which takes a long time to identify and results in poor search and rescue results. This paper applies computer vision technology to the field of maritime distress object detection and proposes an improved object detection algorithm YOLOv5s‐EFOE based on the YOLOv5s algorithm. Firstly, the authors change the detection head of the YOLOv5s algorithm to use a mixed channel strategy to build a more efficient decoupling head, reducing the number of 3 × 3 convolutional layers in the middle of the decoupling head to only one. The width of the head is scaled by the width multipliers of Backbone and Neck. Secondly, in conjunction with the SimOTA matching algorithm, the positive samples of the target to be tested are dynamically allocated to improve the recognition ability of different targets. Finally, considering the low pixel value of the maritime distress target from the perspective of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), the loss function CIoU in the original YOLOv5s is changed to EIoU. EIoU not only considers the distance and aspect ratio of the centre point, but also considers the true difference between the width and height of the prediction box and the real box, which improves the prediction accuracy of the anchor box. Experiments are conducted on a subset of the public dataset SeaDronesSee. The of the YOLOv5s‐EFOE model proposed in this paper reached 75.9%, reached 79.9%, and reached 44.5%. These indicators are superior to the original YOLOv5s model, YOLOv7 series models, and YOLOv8 series models. Compared with the original model, the YOLOv5s‐EFOE model has increased the by 5.4%, by 5.6%, and by 4.6%, improving the difficult to detect and missed detection situations. This model can be deployed on UAVs and can effectively identify maritime distress target, achieving the purpose of search and rescue.
EMISSA (Exploring millimetre indicators of solar-stellar activity)
Authors: Pandit Sneha , Wedemeyer Sven , Carlsson Mats
Published: May 2024

Context. Amongst several spectral lines, some of the strongest chromospheric diagnostics are offered by the Ca II H & K lines. These lines can be used to gauge the temperature stratification of the atmosphere since the line core and wings are formed in different regions of the solar atmosphere. Furthermore, the Ca II lines act as tracers for the magnetic structure of the solar atmosphere, as the line cores are formed in the upper chromosphere even though they are formed in non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (NLTE). In contrast, the formation of millimetre (mm) continuum radiation occurs under local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) conditions. As a result, the brightness temperatures obtained from observations with the Atacama Large Millimetre/Submillimetre Array (ALMA) offer a complementary perspective on the activity and thermal structure of stellar atmospheres.

Aims. The overall aim is to establish more robust solar/stellar activity indicators using ALMA observations in comparison with classical diagnostics, such as the s index and infrared triplet (IRT) index.

Methods. We employed the 1.5D radiative transfer codes RH1.5D and advanced radiative transfer (ART) to compute the synthetic spectra for the Ca II lines and the millimetre (mm) continua, respectively. These calculations were performed using an enhanced network atmosphere model, which incorporates non-equilibrium hydrogen ionisation generated by the state-of-the-art 3D radiation magnetohydrodynamics (rMHD) Bifrost code. To account for the limited spatial resolution of ALMA, we simulated the effect using a Gaussian point spread function (PSF). Additionally, we analysed the correlations and slopes of scatter plots between the Ca II indices and mm continuum for the original and degraded resolutions, focusing on the entire simulation box, quiet Sun regions, and enhanced network patches separately. The activity indices generated from these lines could further be used to compare the spectra of Sun-like stars with the solar spectrum.

Results. We present a comparative study between synthetic continuum brightness temperature maps at mm wavelengths (0.3 mm–8.5 mm) and the Ca II activity indices; namely, the s index and infrared triplet (IRT) index. The Ca II activity indices and mm brightness temperatures are weakly correlated at the high resolution, with the highest correlation observed at a wavelength of 0.3 mm, corresponding to ALMA band 10. As the resolution decreases, the correlation consistently increases. Conversely, the slopes exhibit a decreasing trend with increasing wavelength, while the degradation of resolution does not noticeably affect the calculated slopes.

Conclusions. As the spatial resolution decreases, the standard deviations of the Ca II activity indices and brightness temperatures decrease, while the correlations between them increase. However, the slopes do not exhibit significant changes. Consequently, these relationships could be valuable for calibrating the mm continuum maps obtained through ALMA observations.
The polarization-angle flip in GRB prompt emission
Authors: Cheng Kangfa , Zhao Xiaohong , Mao Jirong , Chen Zhifu
Published: May 2024

Context.In recent years, some polarization measurements of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have been reported, and the polarization-angle (PA) rotation in the prompt emission phase has been found in several bursts. The physical mechanism of the PA evolution is still unclear. In this work, we studied the origin of the PA rotation in a toroidal magnetic field.

Aims.We aim to provide an explanation for the PA rotation in GRBs and find the physical conditions that lead to the rotation by 90 degrees in the toroidal magnetic-field (MF) model. Moreover, we present some observable polarization properties in the MF model that can be tested in the future.

Methods.We calculated the instantaneous polarization degree (PD) from a top-hat jet with different normalized viewing angles (q = θv/θj), jet opening angles (θj), and jet Lorentz factors (Γ) in three wavebands. When the PD changes between positive and negative values, it means that the PA flips by 90 degrees. On these grounds, we can summarize the range of parameters required for these PA flips. Considering these parameter conditions, we can further estimate the observed rate of the GRBs exhibiting such PA rotations.

Results.We find that the PA rotation in the toroidal MF is primarily related to three critical factors: the viewing angle, the jet opening angle, and the jet Lorentz factor. Additionally, the PA can experience flips of 90 degrees twice. The conditions for the flips areq ≳ 0.5 (except forq ≃ 1) andyj = (Γθj)2 ≳ 4. However, the two flips in the PA might not be concurrently observable due to the constraint of flux. Taking these conditions into account and assuming a random orientation between the jet axis and the line of sight (LOS), we obtain a theoretical upper limit (without any constraints) for the observed rate of GRBs in the X-ray orγ-ray band displaying the flips in PA asRch ≲ 80%. We further constrain the observed rate asRch ∼ 16% according to the maximal post-flip polarized flux level, where the observed rate of single and double flips each account for ∼8%. It should be noted that the observed rates are different in various wavebands. The observed rate of the second PA flip in the optical bands should be higher than that in the X-ray orγ-ray band since the flux in the optical band declines much slower than that in the X-ray orγ-ray band. Moreover, when the LOS is close to the jet edge (q → 1), it is the easiest case in which to observe the 90-degree PA flip due to the relatively high post-flip polarized flux level. The first and second PA flips in a GRB pulse are most likely to occur at the observed times oftobs ∼ [2 − 3]tpeakand ∼[3 − 4]tpeak, respectively, wheretpeakis the peak time of the pulse. It is also noted that the PA flip would not happen before the peak time.
Are early-type galaxies quenched by present-day environment?
Authors: Romero-Gómez J. , Peletier Reynier F. , Aguerri J. A. L. , Smith R.
Published: May 2024

Galaxies undergo numerous transformative processes throughout their lifetimes that ultimately lead to the expulsion of gas and the cessation of star-forming activity. This phenomenon is commonly known as quenching, and in this study, we delve into the possibility that this process is caused by the environmental processes associated with the surrounding cluster. To this end, we used the results of our previous paper – where we analyzed dwarf galaxies in the SAMI-Fornax survey together with massive galaxies from the ATLAS3D survey – to compute the quenching time of each galaxy and compare it with the infall time into the cluster. Using t90 as an approximation of the quenching time and deriving the infall time from phase-space models, we determined the probability of the quenching being produced by the local environment of galaxies. Our results reveal a relation between galaxy mass and quenching probability. Massive galaxies, down to M⋆ ∼ 1010 M⊙, exhibit a low, almost zero probability of quenching, suggesting their independence of environmental effects. As we move into the mass regime of dwarf galaxies, the probability increases with decreasing mass, highlighting their sensitivity to environmental quenching. For dwarfs, 36 ± 9% of our observational data are consistent with this hypothesis, challenging the idea that the present-day cluster, Fornax, is the primary driver of quenching in the low-mass galaxies of our sample with stellar mass from 107 to 109 M⊙. To further investigate the importance of environmental processes, we compared these results with cosmological simulations, selecting galaxies under similar conditions to our observational sample. Remarkably, the simulated sample shows lower quenching probabilities as we move down in mass, and barely 5 ± 1% of galaxies meet the quenching criteria. This discrepancy between observations and simulations underlines the fact that the modelling of quenching is still in its infancy. In general, the number of observed galaxies quenched by their environment is lower than expected, which suggests that preprocessing plays a larger role in galaxy evolution. Ultimately, our results highlight the need for higher-quality simulations and refinement of galaxy formation and evolution models.
Impact of main sequence mass loss on the appearance, structure, and evolution of Wolf-Rayet stars
Authors: Josiek J. , Ekström S. , Sander A. A. C.
Published: May 2024

Context. Stellar winds are one of the most important drivers of massive star evolution and are a vital source of chemical, mechanical, and radiative feedback on the galactic scale. Despite its significance, mass loss remains a major uncertainty in stellar evolution models. In particular, the interdependencies between the different approaches and the subsequent evolutionary stages and predicted observable phenomena are far from being systematically understood.

Aims. In this study, we examine the impact of main sequence mass loss on the structure of massive stars throughout their entire evolution. Particular focus is placed on the consequences in terms of entrance into the Wolf-Rayet (WR) regime and the subsequent evolution.

Methods. Using the Geneva stellar evolution code (GENEC), we computed grids of single, nonrotating stellar models at solar and Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) metallicities of initial masses between 20 and 120 solar masses, with two representative prescriptions for high and low main sequence mass loss.

Results. We obtain detailed numerical predictions regarding the structure and evolution of massive stars, and infer the role of main sequence mass loss by comparison of the mass-loss rate prescriptions. We present implications for the overall evolutionary trajectory, including the evolution of WR stars, as well as the effect on stellar yields and stellar populations.

Conclusions. Mass loss during the main sequence plays an important role because of its ability to affect the sequence and duration of all subsequent phases. We identify several distinct evolutionary paths for massive stars, which are significantly influenced by the chosen main sequence mass-loss description. We also discuss the impact of uncertainties – other than that regarding mass loss – on the evolution, in particular those relating to convection. We further demonstrate that not only the total mass loss but also the specific mass-loss history throughout a star’s life is a crucial determinant of many aspects, such as the resulting stellar yields.