bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic modeling of injection induced seismicity based on the continuous time random walk model
Authors: Michas Georgios , Vallianatos Filippos
Published: February 2024

The spatiotemporal evolution of earthquakes induced by fluid injections into the subsurface can be erratic owing to the complexity of the physical process. To effectively mitigate the associated hazard and to draft appropriate regulatory strategies, a detailed understanding of how induced seismicity may evolve is needed. In this work, we build on the well-established continuous-time random walk (CTRW) theory to develop a purely stochastic framework that can delineate the essential characteristics of this process. We use data from the 2003 and 2012 hydraulic stimulations in the Cooper Basin geothermal field that induced thousands of microearthquakes to test and demonstrate the applicability of the model. Induced seismicity in the Cooper Basin shows all the characteristics of subdiffusion, as indicated by the fractional order power-law growth of the mean square displacement with time and broad waiting-time distributions with algebraic tails. We further use an appropriate master equation and the time-fractional diffusion equation to map the spatiotemporal evolution of seismicity. The results show good agreement between the model and the data regarding the peak earthquake concentration close to the two injection wells and the stretched exponential relaxation of seismicity with distance, suggesting that the CTRW model can be efficiently incorporated into induced seismicity forecasting.
Association between domain-specific physical activity and mental health status after embryo transfer in IVF-ET-assisted pregnancy patients
Authors: Wang Wei , Yang Fang , Bai Yunfeng , Lu Yanxia , Mao Xueqin
Published: February 2024

Physical activity has been shown to impact mental health in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) patients, but the relationship between domain-specific physical activity and mental health in this population remains unclear. In a cross-sectional observational study, 208 patients undergoing IVF-ET with long-term ovulation induction cycles were recruited from a reproductive center. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the symptom checklist 90 (SCL-90) were used to assess physical activity levels and mental health status, respectively. Analyses of variance and linear regression analyses were conducted to identify the relationship between physical activity and mental health. There were differences between different physical activity level in times of transfers, years of infertility, and times of abortions. Patients with high levels of physical activity had fewer symptoms than those with low levels of physical activity. Occupation, transport and household physical activity had significant negative correlations with the respective SCL-90 factor scores. Linear regression analysis revealed that occupation physical activity was associated with lower depression and anxiety, and transport physical activity and household physical activity were associated with lower obsessive–compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, and psychoticism scores. The study indicates that increased engagement in physical activity, specifically activities related to occupation, transportation, and household, may be associated with improved mental health among IVF-ET patients.
Quantifying heterogeneity in an animal model of acute respiratory distress syndrome, a comparison of inspired sinewave technique to computed tomography
Authors: Tran Minh C. , Crockett Douglas C. , Tran Tu K. , Phan Phi A. , Federico Formenti , Bruce Richard , Perchiazzi Gaetano , Payne Stephen J. , Farmery Andrew D.
Published: February 2024

The inspired sinewave technique (IST) is a non-invasive method to measure lung heterogeneity indices (including both uneven ventilation and perfusion or heterogeneity), which reveal multiple conditions of the lung and lung injury. To evaluate the reproducibility and predicted clinical outcomes of IST heterogeneity values, a comparison with a quantitative lung computed tomography (CT) scan is performed. Six anaesthetised pigs were studied after surfactant depletion by saline-lavage. Paired measurements of lung heterogeneity were then taken with both the IST and CT. Lung heterogeneity measured by the IST was calculated by (a) the ratio of tracer gas outputs measured at oscillation periods of 180 s and 60 s, and (b) by the standard deviation of the modelled log-normal distribution of ventilations and perfusions in the simulation lung. In the CT images, lungs were manually segmented and divided into different regions according to voxel density. A quantitative CT method to calculate the heterogeneity (the Cressoni method) was applied. The IST and CT show good Pearson correlation coefficients in lung heterogeneity measurements (ventilation: 0.71, and perfusion, 0.60, p < 0.001). Within individual animals, the coefficients of determination average ventilation (R2 = 0.53) and perfusion (R2 = 0.68) heterogeneity. Strong concordance rates of 98% in ventilation and 89% when the heterogeneity changes were reported in pairs measured by CT scanning and IST methods. This quantitative method to identify heterogeneity has the potential to replicate CT lung heterogeneity, and to aid individualised care in ARDS.
Atypical memory B cell frequency correlates with antibody breadth and function in malaria immune adults
Authors: Partey Frederica Dedo , Dowuona Jasmine Naa Norkor , Pobee Abigail Naa Adjorkor , Walker Melanie Rose , Aculley Belinda , Prah Diana Ahu , Ofori Michael Fokuo , Barfod Lea Klingenberg
Published: February 2024

Clinical immunity to malaria develops slowly after repeated episodes of infection and antibodies are essential in naturally acquired immunity against malaria. However, chronic exposure to malaria has been linked to perturbation in B-cell homeostasis with the accumulation of atypical memory B cells. It is unclear how perturbations in B cell subsets influence antibody breadth, avidity, and function in individuals naturally exposed to malaria. We show that individuals living in high malaria transmission regions in Ghana have higher Plasmodium falciparum merozoite antigen-specific antibodies and an increased antibody breadth score but lower antibody avidities relative to low transmission regions. The frequency of circulating atypical memory B cells is positively associated with an individual's antibody breadth. In vitro growth inhibition is independent of the ability to bind to free merozoites but associated with the breadth of antibody reactivity in an individual. Taken together, our data shows that repeated malaria episodes hamper the development of high avid antibodies which is compensated for by an increase in antibody breadth. Our results provide evidence to reinforce the idea that in regions with high malaria prevalence, repeated malaria infections lead to the broadening of antibody diversity and the continued presence of atypical memory B cell populations.
Targeted worker removal reveals a lack of flexibility in brood transport specialisation with no compensatory gain in efficiency
Authors: McGregor Sean , Uslu Fazil E. , Sakar Mahmut Selman , Keller Laurent
Published: February 2024

Division of labour is widely thought to increase the task efficiency of eusocial insects. Workers can switch their task to compensate for sudden changes in demand, providing flexible task allocation. In combination with automated tracking technology, we developed a robotic system to precisely control and spatiotemporally manipulate floor temperature over days, which allowed us to predictably drive brood transport behaviour in colonies of the ant Camponotus floridanus. Our results indicate that a small number of workers, usually minors belonging to the nurse social group, are highly specialised for brood transport. There was no difference in the speed at which workers transported brood, suggesting that specialisation does not correlate with efficiency. Workers often started to transport the brood only after having identified a better location. There was no evidence that workers shared information about the presence of a better location. Notably, once brood transporters had been removed, none of the remaining workers performed this task, and the brood transport completely stopped. When brood transporters were returned to their colony, brood transport was immediately restored. Taken together, our study reveals that brood transport is an inflexible task, achieved through the synchronous actions of a few privately informed specialist workers.
Comparison of the effects of high dietary iron levels on bone microarchitecture responses in the mouse strains 129/Sv and C57BL/6J
Authors: Ledesma-Colunga Maria G. , Passin Vanessa , Vujic Spasic Maja , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Baschant Ulrike , Rauner Martina
Published: February 2024

Iron is an essential nutrient for all living organisms. Both iron deficiency and excess can be harmful. Bone, a highly metabolic active organ, is particularly sensitive to fluctuations in iron levels. In this study, we investigated the effects of dietary iron overload on bone homeostasis with a specific focus on two frequently utilized mouse strains: 129/Sv and C57BL/6J. Our findings revealed that after 6 weeks on an iron-rich diet, 129/Sv mice exhibited a decrease in trabecular and cortical bone density in both vertebral and femoral bones, which was linked to reduced bone turnover. In contrast, there was no evidence of bone changes associated with iron overload in age-matched C57BL/6J mice. Interestingly, 129/Sv mice exposed to an iron-rich diet during their prenatal development were protected from iron-induced bone loss, suggesting the presence of potential adaptive mechanisms. Overall, our study underscores the critical role of genetic background in modulating the effects of iron overload on bone health. This should be considered when studying effects of iron on bone.
An assessment of AcquireX and Compound Discoverer software 3.3 for non-targeted metabolomics
Authors: Cooper Bret , Yang Ronghui
Published: February 2024

We used the Exploris 240 mass spectrometer for non-targeted metabolomics on Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain BY4741 and tested AcquireX software for increasing the number of detectable compounds and Compound Discoverer 3.3 software for identifying compounds by MS2 spectral library matching. AcquireX increased the number of potentially identifiable compounds by 50% through six iterations of MS2 acquisition. On the basis of high-scoring MS2 matches made by Compound Discoverer, there were 483 compounds putatively identified from nearly 8000 candidate spectra. Comparisons to 20 amino acid standards, however, revealed instances whereby compound matches could be incorrect despite strong scores. Situations included the candidate with the top score not being the correct compound, matching the same compound at two different chromatographic peaks, assigning the highest score to a library compound much heavier than the mass for the parent ion, and grouping MS2 isomers to a single parent ion. Because the software does not calculate false positive and false discovery rates at these multiple levels where such errors can propagate, we conclude that manual examination of findings will be required post software analysis. These results will interest scientists who may use this platform for metabolomics research in diverse disciplines including medical science, environmental science, and agriculture.
Shrimp injection with dsRNA targeting the microsporidian EHP polar tube protein reduces internal and external parasite amplification
Authors: Yuanlae Satika , Prasartset Tharinthon , Reamtong Onrapak , Munkongwongsiri Natthinee , Panphloi Muthita , Preechakul Thanchanok , Suebsing Rungkarn , Thitamadee Siripong , Prachumwat Anuphap , Itsathitphaisarn Ornchuma , Taengchaiyaphum Suparat , Kasamechotchung Chanadda
Published: February 2024

The microsporidian Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) is a major threat to shrimp health worldwide. Severe EHP infections in shrimp cause growth retardation and increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections. EHP produces spores with a chitin wall that enables them to survive prolonged environmental exposure. Previous studies showed that polar tube extrusion is a prerequisite for EHP infection, such that inhibiting extrusion should prevent infection. Using a proteomic approach, polar tube protein 2 of EHP (EhPTP2) was found abundantly in protein extracts obtained from extruded spores. Using an immunofluorescent antibody against EhPTP2 for immunohistochemistry, extruded spores were found in the shrimp hepatopancreas (HP) and intestine, but not in the stomach. We hypothesized that presence of EhPTP2 might be required for successful EHP spore extrusion. To test this hypothesis, we injected EhPTP2-specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and found that it significantly diminished EHP copy numbers in infected shrimp. This indicated reduced amplification of EHP-infected cells in the HP by spores released from previously infected cells. In addition, injection of the dsRNA into EHP-infected shrimp prior to their use in cohabitation with naïve shrimp significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the rate of EHP transmission to naïve shrimp. The results revealed that EhPTP2 plays a crucial role in the life cycle of EHP and that dsRNA targeting EHP mRNA can effectively reach the parasite developing in host cells. This approach is a model for future investigations to identify critical genes for EHP survival and spread as potential targets for preventative and therapeutic measures in shrimp.
Thermal conversion of irradiated LLDPE waste into sustainable sponge-like compounds: a novel approach for efficient trace-level oil–water removal
Authors: Ghobashy Mohamed Mohamady , Gayed H. M.
Published: February 2024

The newest method for recycling waste linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) is the thermo-catalytic degradation technique known as catalytic pyrolysis. Typically, it is limited by 500–800 °C high temperatures. Catalytic pyrolysis releases toxins and forms harmful carbonized char. The current study is based on exposing wasted LLDPE to different gamma irradiation doses and then pyrolysis in castor oil (150–300 °C). The output product of Ir-(rLLDPE) is turned into another compound with a new structural architecture (sponge-like). SEM analysis confirms conversion, showing sponge-like spicules and layers. Ir-(rLLDPE) is sponge-like with a soft, malleable, absorbent texture. The DSC demonstrates altered thermal properties, with a melting point at 121 °C splitting into two peaks (endothermic at 117 °C and exothermic at 160 °C). The exothermic peaks signify the curing process of the sponge-like material. Ir-(rLLDPE) is assessed as an adsorbent for aqueous oils and solvents. The study examines irradiation doses, pyrolysis temperature, and time on adsorbent capacity. The oil removal obeys the Langmuir isotherm with monolayer adsorption, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 24.75 g/g of waste oil and 43 g/g of 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane. Squashing maintains adsorption after 20 reuses. Data shows sponges effectively clean marine oil spills and solvents.
Enhanced bone regeneration in rat calvarial defects through BMP2 release from engineered poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels
Authors: Vallmajo-Martin Queralt , Millan Christopher , Müller Ralph , Weber Franz E. , Ehrbar Martin , Ghayor Chafik
Published: February 2024

The clinical standard therapy for large bone defects, typically addressed through autograft or allograft donor tissue, faces significant limitations. Tissue engineering offers a promising alternative strategy for the regeneration of substantial bone lesions. In this study, we harnessed poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels, optimizing critical parameters including stiffness, incorporation of arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) cell adhesion motifs, degradability, and the release of BMP2 to promote bone formation. In vitro we demonstrated that human bone marrow derived stromal cell (hBMSC) proliferation and spreading strongly correlates with hydrogel stiffness and adhesion to RGD peptide motifs. Moreover, the incorporation of the osteogenic growth factor BMP2 into the hydrogels enabled sustained release, effectively inducing bone regeneration in encapsulated progenitor cells. When used in vivo to treat calvarial defects in rats, we showed that hydrogels of low and intermediate stiffness optimally facilitated cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation promoting the efficient repair of bone defects. Our comprehensive in vitro and in vivo findings collectively suggest that the developed hydrogels hold significant promise for clinical translation for bone repair and regeneration by delivering sustained and controlled stimuli from active signaling molecules.
Improved tactile speech perception using audio-to-tactile sensory substitution with formant frequency focusing
Authors: Fletcher Mark D. , Akis Esma , Verschuur Carl A. , Perry Samuel W.
Published: February 2024

Haptic hearing aids, which provide speech information through tactile stimulation, could substantially improve outcomes for both cochlear implant users and for those unable to access cochlear implants. Recent advances in wide-band haptic actuator technology have made new audio-to-tactile conversion strategies viable for wearable devices. One such strategy filters the audio into eight frequency bands, which are evenly distributed across the speech frequency range. The amplitude envelopes from the eight bands modulate the amplitudes of eight low-frequency tones, which are delivered through vibration to a single site on the wrist. This tactile vocoder strategy effectively transfers some phonemic information, but vowels and obstruent consonants are poorly portrayed. In 20 participants with normal touch perception, we tested (1) whether focusing the audio filters of the tactile vocoder more densely around the first and second formant frequencies improved tactile vowel discrimination, and (2) whether focusing filters at mid-to-high frequencies improved obstruent consonant discrimination. The obstruent-focused approach was found to be ineffective. However, the formant-focused approach improved vowel discrimination by 8%, without changing overall consonant discrimination. The formant-focused tactile vocoder strategy, which can readily be implemented in real time on a compact device, could substantially improve speech perception for haptic hearing aid users.
Factors associated with sexual dysfunction in patients with colorectal cancer in Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dahouri Amirmohammad , Sahebihagh Mohammad Hassan , Gilani Neda
Published: February 2024

Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent issue among individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC), significantly impacting their quality of life. However, limited research has explored the factors associated with sexual dysfunction in CRC patients in Iran. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the demographic factors that may contribute to sexual dysfunction in this population. A cross-sectional study involving CRC patients was conducted from April 1, 2022, to May 1, 2022, in Tabriz, Iran. Ethical approvals were obtained, and convenience sampling was employed at outpatient chemotherapy centers in five Tabriz hospitals. Validated questionnaires, including participants characteristics form, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for females and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) for males, were utilized. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 24, employing descriptive statistics and stepwise linear regression to assess association between mentioned factors and sexual function. Among 256 participants, 50.4% were males, 49.6% were females, and 80.5% were married. The predominant age range was 50–60 years. The study findings revealed a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction among both female (Mean ± SD: 10.91 ± 8.67, Min–Max: 3.20–33.00) and male (Mean ± SD: 27.64 ± 16.28, Min–Max: 11–62) CRC patients. Factors such as the presence of a colostomy for FSFI (P < 0.001), type of treatment received for both FSFI and IIEF (P < 0.001), type of housing for both FSFI and IIEF (P < 0.001), occupation for FSFI (P < 0.001), presence of other diseases for FSFI (P = 0.047), and time since the last chemotherapy session for FSFI (P = 0.018), Education for IIEF (P = 0.026), and Age for IIEF (P = 0.002) were identified as significant factors of sexual dysfunction. These demographic factors demonstrated varying effects on sexual function, underscoring the complexity of this issue. The results underscore the significance of addressing sexual health concerns in CRC patients and highlight the necessity for tailored interventions to enhance their overall well-being. Healthcare providers should recognize the influence of demographic factors on sexual function and contemplate integrating sexual health assessments and interventions into the care of CRC patients. Further research is needed to comprehend better the underlying mechanisms and devise effective strategies for managing sexual dysfunction in this population.
Metalloproteomic analysis of liver proteins isolated from broilers fed with different sources and levels of copper and manganese
Authors: Aparecida Martins Renata , de Almeida Assunção Andrey Sávio , Cavalcante Souza Vieira José , Campos Rocha Leone , Michelin Groff Urayama Priscila , Afonso Rabelo Buzalaf Marília , Roberto Sartori José , de Magalhães Padilha Pedro
Published: February 2024

Supplementing minerals beyond dietary requirements can increase the risk of toxicity and mineral excretion, making the selection of more bioavailable sources crucial. Thus, this work aimed to use metalloproteomics tools to investigate possible alterations in the hepatic proteome of broilers fed with diets containing two sources (sulfate and hydroxychloride) and two levels of copper (15 and 150 ppm) and manganese (80 and 120 ppm), totaling four treatments: low Cu/Mn SO4, high Cu/Mn SO4, low Cu/Mn (OH)Cl and high Cu/Mn (OH)Cl. The difference in abundance of protein spots and copper and manganese concentrations in liver and protein pellets were analyzed by analysis of variance with significance level of 5%. The Cu and Mn concentrations determined in liver and protein pellets suggested greater bioavailability of hydroxychloride sources. We identified 19 Cu-associated proteins spots, 10 Mn-associated protein spots, and 5 Cu and/or Mn-associated protein spots simultaneously. The analysis also indicated the induction of heat shock proteins and detoxification proteins in broilers fed with high levels of copper and manganese, suggesting the involvement of these proteins in metal tolerance and stress.
Genome assembly provides insights into the genome evolution of Baccaurea ramiflora Lour.
Authors: Huang Jianjian , Chen Jie , Shi Min , Zheng Jiaqi , Chen Ming , Wu Linjun , Zhu Hui , Zheng Yuzhong , Wu Qinghan , Wu Fengnian
Published: February 2024

Baccaurea ramiflora Lour., an evergreen tree of the Baccaurea genus of the Phyllanthaceae family, is primarily distributed in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and southern China, including southern Yunnan Province. It is a wild or semi-cultivated tree species with ornamental, edible, and medicinal value, exhibiting significant development potential. In this study, we present the whole-genome sequencing of B. ramiflora, employing a combination of PacBio SMRT and Illumina HiSeq 2500 sequencing techniques. The assembled genome size was 975.8 Mb, with a contig N50 of 509.33 kb and the longest contig measuring 7.74 Mb. The genome comprises approximately 73.47% highly repetitive sequences, of which 52.1% are long terminal repeat–retrotransposon sequences. A total of 29,172 protein-coding genes were predicted, of which 25,980 (89.06%) have been annotated, Additionally, 3452 non-coding RNAs were identified. Comparative genomic analysis revealed a close relationship between B. ramiflora and the Euphorbiaceae family, with both being sister groups that diverged approximately 59.9 million years ago. During the evolutionary process, B. ramiflora exhibited positive selection in 278 candidate genes. Synonymous substitution rate and collinearity analysis demonstrated that B. ramiflora underwent a single ancient genome-wide triploidization event, without recent genome-wide duplication events. This high-quality B. ramiflora genome provides a valuable resource for basic research and tree improvement programs focusing on the Phyllanthaceae family.
Stable isotope analyses of carbon and nitrogen in hair keratin of suspected man-eating wolves from 1880s
Authors: Junno Juho-Antti , Väre Tiina , Tikkanen Jouni , Heino Matti T. , Niskanen Markku , Kakko Iiro , Honka Johanna , Kallio-Seppä Titta , Kvist Laura , Harmoinen Jenni , Aspi Jouni
Published: February 2024

The so-called man-eating wolves of Turku, a pack of three wolves, reportedly killed 22 children in South-Western Finland in 1880–1881. Enormous efforts were carried out to eradicate them. In January 1882 the last remaining wolf was killed. Since then, there has been considerable debate regarding the validity and extent of the man-eating behaviour. This study aims to clarify whether man-eating behaviour can be observed from the remains of these wolves. One of the wolves was mounted in 1882 and is on display at St. Olaf’s school in Turku, enabling us to collect hair keratin samples. Additionally, hair keratin was collected from two other suspected man-eaters. We analysed carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope values to study the wolf’s diet during the last months of its life. Samples from seven temporally concurrent wolves were used to construct reference values. Our analyses indicated that δ15N values of suspected man-eaters were relatively low compared to the reference sample. We could not detect clear trends in isotope ratios associated with potential man-eating behavior. We believe that this lack of distinctive patterns can be explained by the relatively minor role that man-eating played in their overall diet.
Analysis of Helicobacter pylori resistance in patients with different gastric diseases
Authors: Shao Yongfu , Lin Yifan , Fang Ziyi , Yan Jianing , Zheng Tuo , Ye Guoliang
Published: February 2024

Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) resistance is the most important risk factor for eradication failure. However, in most regions, antibiotic resistance rates ofH. pyloriin patients with different types of gastric mucosal lesions are still unclear. An 8-year clinical retrospective cohort study involving 2847 patients was performed. In this study, we first summarized and compared the resistance status ofH. pyloriin different years, ages, sexes, and gastric diseases. The resistance profiles of amoxicillin (AMX), clarithromycin (CLR), levofloxacin (LVX) and furazolidone (FR) and their changing trends in the clinic were described. Then, multiple antibiotic resistance in different gastric diseases and years were described and compared. The relationship between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication history and antibiotic resistance inH. pyloriwas also explored. Finally, an antibiotic resistance risk model was constructed for clinical resistance risk prediction. The overall resistance rates of AMX, CLR, LVX and FR in gastric diseases were 8.18%, 38.11%, 43.98%, and 13.73%, respectively. The mono resistance, double resistance, triple resistance, and quadruple resistance rates were 30.17%, 25.96%, 6.46%, and 0.63%, respectively. Compared with the period from 2014 to 2016, the rates of mono-resistance and multiple resistance all showed relatively downward trends in the past 5 years. Factors including age, sex, type of gastric lesions and recent PPI treatment history are associated with the antibiotic resistance rate ofH. pylori. Atrophic gastritis is an important clinical feature of high-risk antibiotic resistance inH. pylori-infected patients. Patients with atrophic gastritis have higher risk of resistant strains infection. In this study, our data provide the association between antibiotic resistance ofH. pyloriand gastritis pattern, which indicate the higher risk of resistant strain infection if the patients with atrophic gastritis, PPI history and older age.
Relationship among post-traumatic growth, spiritual well-being, and perceived social support in Chinese women with gynecological cancer
Authors: Feng Yue , Liu Xingcan , Zhang Shixi , Lin Tangwei , Guo Xiujing , Chen Jing
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to examine the correlation between post-traumatic growth (PTG), spiritual well-being (SWB), perceived social support (PSS), and demographic and clinical factors in Chinese gynecological cancer patients. Through convenience sampling, we conducted a cross-sectional study of 771 adult patients with gynecological cancer. The European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Spiritual Well-being 32 (EORTC QLQ-SWB32), Post-traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) were used to measure SWB, PTG, and PSS. A Multiple Linear Regression Model was used to determine the possible factors contributing to PTG. The subscale with the highest centesimal score in the PTGI was the Appreciation of Life Scale, and the lowest was New Possibility. Gynecologic cancer patients with younger ages (B =  − 0.313, P = 0.002), perceived more family support (B = 1.289, P < 0.001), had more existential (B = 0.865, P = 0.010), and had religious belief (B = 5.760, P = 0.034) may have more PTG. Spiritual well-being, perceived social support, younger age, and religious beliefs are associated with post-traumatic growth in gynecological cancer patients. Healthcare staff could provide more professional support to younger patients with religious beliefs. Promoting social support and spiritual well-being could potentially serve as effective interventions for boosting PTG among gynecological cancer.
Analysis of the influence of shear-tensile resistance and rock-breaking effect of cutting holes
Authors: Wan Antong , Tao Tiejun , Tian Xingchao , Xie Caijin , Liu Xia , Zhao Zhenhua , Zhang Houying
Published: February 2024

In the process of drilling and blasting construction of large-cross-section tunnels, the layout of wedge-shaped cutting holes has a great influence on the effect of blasting. In this study, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation were used to assess the effect of different forms of cutting hole placement on blasting effectiveness. First, the fissure-inducing angle was proposed, a three-dimensional model of wedge-shaped cutting considering the effect of shear-tensile resistance was established, and theoretical analyses of cutting holes with different cutting angles and fissure-inducing angles were carried out. Second, the parameters of the Riedel–Hiermaier–Thoma model were determined based on the experimental data, and verified. Third, three-dimensional numerical models were established, and analyze the influence of different forms of hole deployment on the blasting effect from the perspective of stress wave propagation and dynamic damage to the surrounding rock. Finally, based on the theoretical analysis and numerical simulation results, the wedge-shaped hollowing holes were re-designed, and 20 tunnel blasting tests were carried out using this deployment method for large-section tunnel blasting, which verified the feasibility of this deployment method. The results of the study show that for level III surrounding rock, the angle of wedge-shaped cutting holes should meet 68° ≤ θ ≤ 70° and 70° ≤ β ≤ 72°. This study provides a kind of refined and efficient blasting for the drilling and blasting excavation process of large section tunnels.
The role of leptin in regulation of the soluble amyloid precursor protein α (sAPPα) levels in lung cancer cell media
Authors: Haddad Ben , Khalil Jeneen , Al Khashali Hind , Ray Ravel , Goel Stuti , Darweesh Ban , Coleman Kai-ling , Wozniak Caroline , Ranzenberger Robert , Lopo Brooke , Guthrie Jeffrey , Heyl Deborah , Evans Hedeel Guy
Published: February 2024

Previously, we found that the levels of soluble amyloid precursor protein α (sAPPα) are regulated, in part, by acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in human A549 (p53 wild-type) and H1299 (p53-null) NSCLC cell lines. In this study, we found regulation of sAPPα levels in the media by leptin, a widely recognized obesity-associated adipokine that has recently been shown to play a possible role in cancer signaling. Increased levels of sAPPα, that were accompanied by lower Aβ40/42 levels in the media of A549 and H1299 cells, were detected upon cell incubation with leptin. Conversely, knockdown of leptin or its receptor led to reduced levels of sAPPα and increased levels of Aβ40/42 in the media of A549 and H1299 cells, suggesting that leptin likely shifts APP processing toward the non-amyloidogenic pathway. A549 cell treatment with leptin increased acetylcholine levels and blocked the activities of AChE and p53. Treatment with leptin resulted in increased activation of PKC, ERK1/2, PI3K, and the levels of sAPPα, effects that were reversed by treatment with kinase inhibitors and/or upon addition of AChE to A549 and H1299 cell media. Cell viability increased by treatment of A549 and H1299 cells with leptin and decreased upon co-treatment with AChE and/or inhibitors targeting PKC, ERK1/2, and PI3K. This study is significant as it provides evidence for a likely carcinogenic role of leptin in NSCLC cells via upregulation of sAPPα levels in the media, and highlights the importance of targeting leptin as a potential therapeutic strategy for NSCLC treatment.
CD151 expression marks atrial- and ventricular- differentiation from human induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Nakanishi-Koakutsu Misato , Miki Kenji , Naka Yuki , Sasaki Masako , Wakimizu Takayuki , Napier Stephanie C. , Okubo Chikako , Narita Megumi , Nishikawa Misato , Hata Reo , Chonabayashi Kazuhisa , Hotta Akitsu , Imahashi Kenichi , Nishimoto Tomoyuki , Yoshida Yoshinori
Published: February 2024

Current differentiation protocols for human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) produce heterogeneous cardiomyocytes (CMs). Although chamber-specific CM selection using cell surface antigens enhances biomedical applications, a cell surface marker that accurately distinguishes between hiPSC-derived atrial CMs (ACMs) and ventricular CMs (VCMs) has not yet been identified. We have developed an approach for obtaining functional hiPSC-ACMs and -VCMs based on CD151 expression. For ACM differentiation, we found that ACMs are enriched in the CD151low population and that CD151 expression is correlated with the expression of Notch4 and its ligands. Furthermore, Notch signaling inhibition followed by selecting the CD151low population during atrial differentiation leads to the highly efficient generation of ACMs as evidenced by gene expression and electrophysiology. In contrast, for VCM differentiation, VCMs exhibiting a ventricular-related gene signature and uniform action potentials are enriched in the CD151high population. Our findings enable the production of high-quality ACMs and VCMs appropriate for hiPSC-derived chamber-specific disease models and other applications.
Ror homolog nhr-23 is essential for both developmental clock and circadian clock in C. elegans
Authors: Hiroki Shingo , Yoshitane Hikari
Published: February 2024

Animals have internal clocks that generate biological rhythms. In mammals, clock genes such as Period form the circadian clock to generate approximately 24-h biological rhythms. In C. elegans, the clock gene homologs constitute the “developmental clock”, which has an 8-h period during larval development to determine the timing of molting. Thus, the ancestral circadian clock has been believed to evolve into the oscillator with a shorter period in C. elegans. However, circadian rhythms have also been observed in adult C. elegans, albeit relatively weak. This prompts the question: if the clock gene homologs drive the developmental rhythm with 8-h period, which genes generate the circadian rhythms in C. elegans? In this study, we discovered that nhr-23, a homolog of the mammalian circadian clock gene Ror, is essential for circadian transcriptional rhythms in adult C. elegans. Interestingly, nhr-23 was also known to be essential for the molting clock. The bilaterian ancestral circadian clock genes might have evolved to function over multiple periods depending on developmental contexts rather than a single 8-h period in C. elegans.
Hypermethylated genome of a fish vertebrate iridovirus ISKNV plays important roles in viral infection
Authors: Liang Mincong , Pan Weiqiang , You Yanlin , Qin Xiaowei , Su Hualong , Zhan Zhipeng , Weng Shaoping , Guo Changjun , He Jianguo
Published: February 2024

Iridoviruses are nucleocytoplasmic large dsDNA viruses that infect invertebrates and ectothermic vertebrates. The hypermethylated genome of vertebrate iridoviruses is unique among animal viruses. However, the map and function of iridovirus genomic methylation remain unknown. Herein, the methylated genome of Infectious spleen and kidney necrosis virus (ISKNV, a fish iridovirus), and its role in viral infection, are investigated. The methylation level of ISKNV is 23.44%. The hypermethylated genome is essential for ISKNV amplification, but there is no correlation between hypermethylation and viral gene expression. The hypomethylated ISKNV (obtained via 5-Azacytidine) activates a strong immunoreaction in vitro and reduces its pathogenicity in vivo. The unmethylated viral DNA can induce a stronger immunoreaction in vitro, whereas inactivated hypomethylated ISKNV can induce a stronger immunoreaction in vivo, suggesting ISKNV may evade from immune system by increasing its genome methylation level. Our work provides new insights into the role of genome methylation in viral infection.
Resonant fractional conductance through a 1D Wigner chain
Authors: Davies Rose , Lerner Igor V. , Yurkevich Igor V.
Published: February 2024

In recent experiments on conductance of one-dimensional (1D) channels in ultra-clean samples, a diverse set of plateaus were found at fractions of the quantum of conductance in zero magnetic field. We consider a discrete model of strongly interacting electrons in a clean 1D system where the current between weak tunneling contacts is carried by fractionally charged solutions. While in the spinless case conductance remains unaffected by the interaction, as is typical for the strongly interacting clean 1D systems, we demonstrate that in the spinful case the peak conductance takes fractional values that depend on the filling factor of the 1D channel.
Rapid decrease of the Labrador Sea’s influence on black spruce ecosystems with distance inland
Authors: Larose Julien , Boucher Étienne , de Vernal Anne , de Mendoza Ignacio Hermoso , Gennaretti Fabio , Lavergne Aliénor , Andreu-Hayles Laia , Field Robert D.
Published: February 2024

In eastern Canada, Black spruce (Picea mariana Mill. B.S.P.) grows in a wide variety of climates, from maritime-oceanic conditions near the Labrador Sea, to more continental climates, inland. Along this gradient, timing and provenance of heat and moisture that support growth are uncertain, weakening our capacity to predict the response of boreal ecosystems to climate variability. Here, we measured the stable oxygen isotopic composition of black spruce tree-ring cellulose at three sites in eastern Canada and provide evidence of a rapid decrease of Labrador Sea’s influence on adjacent ecosystems. Our results report a landwards decrease in the oxygen isotope composition of both tree-ring cellulose (δ18OTRC) and precipitation water (δ18Op). We also reveal a rapid landwards decoupling between δ18OTRC variability (1950-2013), maximum temperature and Sea Surface Temperature variations over the Northwest Atlantic. Thus, despite their apparent ecological homogeneity, eastern Canada’s black spruce ecosystems rely on heterogeneous sources of heat and moisture.
Socio-spatial equity analysis of relative wealth index and emergency obstetric care accessibility in urban Nigeria
Authors: Wong Kerry L. M. , Banke-Thomas Aduragbemi , Olubodun Tope , Macharia Peter M. , Stanton Charlotte , Sundararajan Narayanan , Shah Yash , Prasad Gautam , Kansal Mansi , Vispute Swapnil , Shekel Tomer , Ogunyemi Olakunmi , Gwacham-Anisiobi Uchenna , Wang Jia , Abejirinde Ibukun-Oluwa Omolade , Makanga Prestige Tatenda , Afolabi Bosede B. , Beňová Lenka
Published: February 2024

Background

Better geographical accessibility to comprehensive emergency obstetric care (CEmOC) facilities can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes. However, with other factors, such as affordability critical for care access, it is important to explore accessibility across groups. We assessed CEmOC geographical accessibility by wealth status in the 15 most-populated Nigerian cities.

Methods

We mapped city boundaries, verified and geocoded functional CEmOC facilities, and assembled population distribution for women of childbearing age and Meta’s Relative Wealth Index (RWI). We used the Google Maps Platform’s internal Directions Application Programming Interface to obtain driving times to public and private facilities. City-level median travel time (MTT) and number of CEmOC facilities reachable within 60 min were summarised for peak and non-peak hours per wealth quintile. The correlation between RWI and MTT to the nearest public CEmOC was calculated.

Results

We show that MTT to the nearest public CEmOC facility is lowest in the wealthiest 20% in all cities, with the largest difference in MTT between the wealthiest 20% and least wealthy 20% seen in Onitsha (26 vs 81 min) and the smallest in Warri (20 vs 30 min). Similarly, the average number of public CEmOC facilities reachable within 60 min varies (11 among the wealthiest 20% and six among the least wealthy in Kano). In five cities, zero facilities are reachable under 60 min for the least wealthy 20%. Those who live in the suburbs particularly have poor accessibility to CEmOC facilities.

Conclusions

Our findings show that the least wealthy mostly have poor accessibility to care. Interventions addressing CEmOC geographical accessibility targeting poor people are needed to address inequities in urban settings.
Limited generalizability of multivariate brain-based dimensions of child psychiatric symptoms
Authors: Xu Bing , Dall’Aglio Lorenza , Flournoy John , Bortsova Gerda , Tervo-Clemmens Brenden , Collins Paul , de Bruijne Marleen , Luciana Monica , Marquand Andre , Wang Hao , Tiemeier Henning , Muetzel Ryan L.
Published: February 2024

Multivariate machine learning techniques are a promising set of tools for identifying complex brain-behavior associations. However, failure to replicate results from these methods across samples has hampered their clinical relevance. Here we aimed to delineate dimensions of brain functional connectivity that are associated with child psychiatric symptoms in two large and independent cohorts: the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study and the Generation R Study (total n = 6935). Using sparse canonical correlations analysis, we identified two brain-behavior dimensions in ABCD: attention problems and aggression/rule-breaking behaviors. Importantly, out-of-sample generalizability of these dimensions was consistently observed in ABCD, suggesting robust multivariate brain-behavior associations. Despite this, out-of-study generalizability in Generation R was limited. These results highlight that the degrees of generalizability can vary depending on the external validation methods employed as well as the datasets used, emphasizing that biomarkers will remain elusive until models generalize better in true external settings.
Flood teleconnections from levees undermine disaster resilience
Authors: Ansari Abolfazl Hojjat , Mejia Alfonso , Cibin Raj
Published: February 2024

Inland levees can amplify flood risk in unprotected communities by altering floodwater levels away from their location. While these nonlocal effects of levees, which we term flood teleconnections, have been studied for specific river segments, their impact on flood risks along a river network remains underexplored. By combining data-driven, hydrodynamic, and economic models, we quantify the magnitude, spatial distribution, and economic damages associated with flood teleconnections for a large river network system with extensive levees. We find that due to levees, the 100-year flood inundation extent grows by 25% of the total levee-protected area regionally, and the flood inundation depth increases by up to 2 m at specific locations. Levees also increase the vulnerability of unprotected, marginalized communities to flooding. Our results demonstrate that flood teleconnections are spatially widespread, involve unaccounted costs, and can lead to flood inequities. These findings will be critical to climate adaptation efforts in flood-prone regions.
Nanotechnology-based delivery of therapeutics through the intranasal pathway and the blood–brain barrier for Alzheimer's disease treatment
Authors: Boyetey Mark-Jefferson Buer , Choi Yonghyun , Lee Hee-Young , Choi Jonghoon
Published: February 2024

Drugs for Alzheimer's disease (AD) fail to exhibit efficacy in clinical trials for a number of reasons, a major one being blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability.
Estimation of the electrochemical active site density of a metal-free carbon-based catalyst using phosphomolybdate (PMo12) as an adsorbate
Authors: Maurya Rajan , Das Rubul , Sharma Shreya , Neergat Manoj
Published: February 2024

A method to estimate the electrochemical active site density of carbon and nitrogen-doped carbon using phosphomolybdate as a probe is proposed. The complete rejection of background current in AC voltammetry offers better estimate of the site density.
Double-cavity cucurbiturils: synthesis, structures, properties, and applications
Authors: Li Qing , Yu Zhengwei , Redshaw Carl , Xiao Xin , Tao Zhu
Published: February 2024

This review article presents the structures, properties, and the emerging applications of a subset of cucurbit[n]uril-type receptors that have two cavities.
Deciphering the high overpotential of the oxygen reduction reaction via comprehensively elucidating the open circuit potential
Authors: Wu Zenan , Yang Guangxing , Zhang Qiao , Liu Zhiting , Peng Feng
Published: February 2024

The reduction peak potential of Pt-based catalysts during cathodic scans emerges as a novel indicator for predicting ORR performance, proposing a strategy to enhance the OCP and reduce the overpotential by kinetically inhibiting Pt oxidation.
Advancements and opportunities in piezo-(photo)catalytic synthesis of value-added chemicals
Authors: Qi Weiliang , Fu Yaping , Liu Enbo , Cheng Zhixing , Sun Yuxiu , Liu Siqi , Yang Minghui
Published: February 2024

Achieving value-added transformation of chemicals through green catalytic technology can simultaneously meet the market and environmental protection. This article reviews the recent advances in synthesizing value-added chemicals using piezo-(photo)catalytic technologies.
Antinociceptive effects of Raphanus sativus sprouts involve the opioid and 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, cAMP/cGMP pathways, and the central activity of sulforaphane
Authors: Hernández-Sánchez Laura Yunuen , González-Trujano María Eva , Moreno Diego A. , Martínez-Vargas David , Vibrans Heike , Hernandez-Leon Alberto , Dorazco-González Alejandro , Pellicer Francisco , Soto-Hernández Marcos
Published: February 2024

Raphanus sativus L. cv. Sango, commonly known as red radish, is widely consumed around the world as a vegetable, but its benefit in pain relief is not sufficiently investigated.
A visible-light-promoted metal-free approach for N–H insertions by using donor/donor diazo precursors
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Qiannan , Wang Ping , Wang Jinxin , Lin Jingchuan , Xia Dingding , Hao Er-Jun , Luan Xin , Das Shoubhik , Zhang Wei-Dong
Published: February 2024

A metal-free and catalyst-free strategy is reported to achieve N–H insertions by coupling N-tosylhydrazones with diverse amines including aminopyridines, anilines, aliphatic amines, and other nucleophiles such as imidazoles and indoles.
Promoting water splitting by transforming its presence status for enhanced hydrogen evolution
Authors: Han Yanxia , Hou Lijie , Shuai Chao , Song Xiaoli , Kong Chao
Published: February 2024

Converting H2O into carbonic acid by reacting H2O with CO2 can reduce the energy barrier to *H generation on Ni.