bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive multivariate approach for GxE interaction analysis in early maturing rice varieties
Authors: Anshori Muhammad Fuad , Musa Yunus , Farid Muh , Jayadi Muh , Padjung Rusnadi , Kaimuddin Kaimuddin , Huang Yi Cheng , Casimero Madonna , Bogayong Iris , Suwarno Willy Bayuardi , Sembiring Hasil , Purwoko Bambang Sapta , Nur Amin , Wahyuni Wahyuni , Wasonga Daniel O. , Seleiman Mahmoud F.
Published: October 2024

The genotype evaluation process requires analysis of GxE interactions to ascertain the responsiveness of a genotype to various environments, including the development of early maturing rice. However, the concept of interaction is relatively specific to grain yield. In contrast, grain yield is highly polygenic, so assessment should be carried out with multivariate approaches. Therefore, multivariate assessment in evaluating GxE interactions should be developed, especially for early maturing rice genotypes. The study aimed to develop a comprehensive multivariate approach to improve the comprehensiveness and responsiveness of GxE interaction analysis. The study was conducted in Bone and Soppeng districts, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, in two seasons. The study used a randomized complete block design, where replications were nested across two seasons and locations. Two check varieties and five early maturing varieties were replicated three times in each environment. Based on this study, a new approach to GxE interaction analysis based on multiple regression index analysis, BLUP analysis, factor analysis, and path analysis was considered adequate, especially for evaluating early maturing rice. This approach combined days to harvest, biological yield, and grain yield in multiple linear regression with weighting based on the combination of all analyses. The effectiveness of the GxE interaction assessment was reflected by high coefficient of determination (R2) and gradient (b) values above 0.8 and 0.9, respectively. Inpari 13 (R2 = 0.9; b=1.05), Cakrabuana (R2 = 0.98; b=0.99), and Padjajaran (R2 = 0.95; b=1.07) also have good grain yield with days to harvesting consideration, namely 7.83 ton ha-1, 98.12 days; 7.37 ton ha-1, 95.52 days; and 7.29 ton ha-1, 97.23 days, respectively. Therefore, this index approach can be recommended in GxE interaction analysis to evaluate early maturing rice genotypes. Furthermore, Inpari 13, Cakrabuana, and Padjajaran are recommended as adaptive early maturing varieties.
Identification and functional analysis of two serotonin N-acetyltransferase genes in maize and their transcriptional response to abiotic stresses
Authors: Guo Xiaohao , Ran Le , Huang Xinyu , Wang Xiuchen , Zhu Jiantang , Tan Yuanyuan , Shu Qingyao
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Melatonin, a tryptophan-derived indoleamine metabolite with important roles in plant growth and defense, has recently been regarded as a new plant hormone. Maize is one of the most important cereal crops in the world. Although the melatonin receptor gene, ZmPMTR1, has already been identified, the genetic basis of melatonin biosynthesis in maize has still not been elucidated. Serotonin N-acetyltransferase (SNAT) is the enzyme that converts serotonin to N-acetylserotonin (NAS) or 5-methoxytryptamine (5MT) to melatonin in Arabidopsis and rice, but no SNAT encoding gene has been identified yet in maize.

Methods

The bioinformatics analysis was used to identify maize SNAT genes and the enzyme activity of the recombinant proteins was determined through in vitro assay. The expression levels of ZmSNAT1 and ZmSNAT3 under drought and heat stresses were revealed by public RNA-seq datasets and qRT-PCR analysis.

Results

We first identified three maize SNAT genes, ZmSNAT1, ZmSNAT2, and ZmSNAT3, through bioinformatics analysis, and demonstrated that ZmSNAT2 was present in only eight of the 26 cultivars analyzed. We then determined the enzyme activity of ZmSNAT1 and ZmSNAT3 using their recombinant proteins through in vitro assay. The results showed that both ZmSNAT1 and ZmSNAT3 could convert serotonin to NAS and 5-MT to melatonin. Recombinant ZmSNAT1 catalyzed serotonin into NAS with a higher catalytic activity (Km, 8.6 mM; Vmax, 4050 pmol/min/mg protein) than ZmSNAT3 (Km, 11.51 mM; Vmax, 142 pmol/min/mg protein). We further demonstrated that the 228th amino acid Tyr (Y228) was essential for the enzymatic activity of ZmSNAT1. Finally, we revealed that the expression of ZmSNAT1 and ZmSNAT3 varied among different maize cultivars and different tissues of a plant, and was responsive to drought and heat stresses.

Discussion

In summary, the present study identified and characterized the first two functional SNAT genes in maize, laying the foundation for further research on melatonin biosynthesis and its regulatory role in plant growth and response to abiotic stresses.
Rapid antiretroviral therapy and treatment outcomes among people living with HIV: exploring the mediating roles of medication adherence
Authors: Chen Hao , Tao Ran , Wu Lingli , Chen Cheng , He Jingchun
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and its impact on treatment outcomes have been a subject of global public health interest. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the effects of rapid ART initiation remain unclear.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined data from 1846 HIV-infected individuals in Jiulongpo District, Chongqing, China, spanning from 2016 to 2022. Logistic regression models and serial mediation analysis were used to explore the influence of rapid ART initiation on treatment outcomes and the role of medication adherence as a mediating factor.

Results

The findings revealed a significant association between rapid ART initiation and reduced risk of viral failure (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.320, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.161, 0.637]), as well as an increased likelihood of improved adherence (adjusted OR = 2.053, 95% CI = [1.226, 3.438]). Medication adherence was identified as a partial mediator in the relationship between rapid ART initiation and viral failure, explaining 10.5% of the total effect.

Discussion

In conclusion,rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy was found to enhance treatment outcomes, emphasizing the importance of early adherence education. The study recommends early initiation of ART coupled with adherence education and psychological counseling for HIV-infected individuals.
Case report: Hand-arm vibration syndrome in a dental technician
Authors: Lam Jonathan Wen Yu , Lo Yew-Long , Fong Yuke Tien
Published: October 2024

Occupational exposure to vibration using hand-held tools may cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) among workers. We report the case of a 39-year-old lady with a 5-year work exposure to repetitive wrist movements and vibration from hand tools in the dental fabrication laboratory, working as a dental technician. She presented with a 3-year history of chronic pain over the wrists and positive symptoms of numbness and tingling in the hands, pain and discomfort of the fingers during cold exposure, and poor grip strength. Symptoms over the right hand were worse than the left. She is right-hand dominant. She had bilateral median nerve neuropathy at the wrist. Nerve conductive tests were consistent with minimal bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. MRI showed evidence of soft tissue damage from repetitive strain injury of the right wrist. Neurosensory grading for hand-vibration syndrome (HAVS) using the Stockholm Workshop Scale (SWS) was performed and she was graded as Stage 1SN with numbness or tingling symptoms. Using the International Consensus Criteria (ICC) grading for HAVS, she was graded Stage N1 with numbness and/or tingling (symptoms) of finger. A workplace risk health assessment (WHRA) was performed, and exposure scores for her work tasks in dental fabrication and risk levels were determined using the HSE (Health and Safety UK) Assessment of Repetitive Tasks (ART) tool. The processes of teeth setting using dental burs (exposure score 23), divestment work with stone clippers (score 20), and use of pneumatic drills (score 21) were deemed high-risk activities for repetitive strain injury. The use of carving tools (score 12), packing with the use of flask clamps, and trimming (score 14) were classified as medium high-risk activities for repetitive strain injuries. Workplace modifications and workplace vibration exposure level monitoring protocols were subsequently established with the stabilization of the patient's symptoms.
Enhancing diagnostic accuracy in symptom-based health checkers: a comprehensive machine learning approach with clinical vignettes and benchmarking
Authors: Aissaoui Ferhi Leila , Ben Amar Manel , Choubani Fethi , Bouallegue Ridha
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The development of machine learning models for symptom-based health checkers is a rapidly evolving area with significant implications for healthcare. Accurate and efficient diagnostic tools can enhance patient outcomes and optimize healthcare resources. This study focuses on evaluating and optimizing machine learning models using a dataset of 10 diseases and 9,572 samples.

Methods

The dataset was divided into training and testing sets to facilitate model training and evaluation. The following models were selected and optimized: Decision Tree, Random Forest, Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression and K-Nearest Neighbors. Evaluation metrics included accuracy, F1 scores, and 10-fold cross-validation. ROC-AUC and precision-recall curves were also utilized to assess model performance, particularly in scenarios with imbalanced datasets. Clinical vignettes were employed to gauge the real-world applicability of the models.

Results

The performance of the models was evaluated using accuracy, F1 scores, and 10-fold cross-validation. The use of ROC-AUC curves revealed that model performance improved with increasing complexity. Precision-recall curves were particularly useful in evaluating model sensitivity in imbalanced dataset scenarios. Clinical vignettes demonstrated the robustness of the models in providing accurate diagnoses.

Discussion

The study underscores the importance of comprehensive model evaluation techniques. The use of clinical vignette testing and analysis of ROC-AUC and precision-recall curves are crucial in ensuring the reliability and sensitivity of symptom-based health checkers. These techniques provide a more nuanced understanding of model performance and highlight areas for further improvement.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significance of employing diverse evaluation metrics and methods to ensure the robustness and accuracy of machine learning models in symptom-based health checkers. The integration of clinical vignettes and the analysis of ROC-AUC and precision-recall curves are essential steps in developing reliable and sensitive diagnostic tools.
Cyanophage-encoded auxiliary metabolic genes in modulating cyanobacterial metabolism and algal bloom dynamics
Authors: Ain Qurat ul , Wu Kevin , Wu Xuan , Bai Qing , Li Qiong , Zhou Cong-Zhao , Wu Qingfa
Published: October 2024

Cyanophages play a pivotal role in controlling cyanobacterial populations in aquatic environments. These dsDNA viruses harbor auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) that modulate the key metabolic processes of their cyanobacterial hosts, such as Photosynthesis, nutrient uptake for the optimization of viral replication. Recently, pan1~pan5 and pam1~pam5 cyanophages have been isolated from the fifth largest water resource in China; Lake Chaohu. Detailed genomic analysis of these phages revealed that these isolated cyanophages especially Pan1, Pam2 and Pam3 possess unique AMGs that significantly enhance the metabolic activities of their hosts, potentially leading to the suppression of bloom formation and stabilization of the ecological dynamics of Lake Chaohu. Our findings provide concrete evidence that cyanophages encoding AMGs could serve as effective biocontrol agents against harmful algal blooms, offering a targeted approach to manage these environmental threats. The integration of cyanophage-based management therapies with traditional methods could advance the efficiency and sustainability of controlling cyanobacterial outbreaks, paving the way for novel applications in water resource management. This review emphasizes the importance and critical need for further exploration of phage-host dynamics to fully harness the potential of cyanophages in ecosystem regulation.
Remote-Sensed Determination of Spatiotemporal Properties of Drought and Assessment of Influencing Factors in Ordos, China
Authors: Wang Sinan , Zhou Quancheng , Wu Yingjie , Li Wei , Li Mingyang
Published: October 2024

Ordos drought impacts are complex; the Geodetector model is able to explore the interaction between impact factors. Based on the drought severity index (DSI), this study explored the spatio-temporal dynamics and changing trends of drought, and analyzed the driving factors of DSI spatial differentiation by using the Geodetector model. The results show that: the evapotranspiration (ET) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in Ordos showed a significant increasing trend (p < 0.05). The increasing rates were ET (4.291 mm yr−1) and NDVI (0.004 yr−1). In addition, the interannual variation of the DSI also showed a significant increase, with a trend change rate of 0.089. The spatial pattern of ET and the NDVI was low in the southwest and high in the northeast, and the spatial pattern of potential evapotranspiration (PET) was high in the southwest and low in the northeast, while the distribution of the DSI was dry in the west and wet in the east. The spatial differentiation of the DSI was mainly affected by five factors: air temperature, precipitation, land use type, soil type, and the digital elevation model (DEM), with q exceeding 0.15, which were the main driving factors of drought in the Loess Plateau. Under the interaction of multiple factors, the four combinations of temperature and the DEM, precipitation and the DEM, sunshine duration and the DEM, and relative humidity and the DEM jointly drive drought, in which precipitation (0.156) ∩ DEM (0.248) has the strongest influence on drought occurrence, and q reaches 0.389. This study directly informs specific drought management strategies or ecological conservation efforts in the region.
Muscle Proteins, Technological Properties, and Free Amino Acids of Epaxial Muscle Collected from Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) at Different Postmortem Durations
Authors: Malila Yuwares , Charoensuk Danai , Srimarut Yanee , Saensa-ard Sunitta , Petpiroon Nalinrat , Kunyanee Chanikarn , Rattanawongsa Wachiraya , Saenmuangchin Rattaporn , Klamchuen Annop , Kangwansupamonkon Wiyong , Aueviriyavit Sasitorn
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the changes in the epaxial muscle proteins of Asian seabass at two different postmortem durations. The epaxial muscles of Asian seabass were collected 1 h or 24 h postmortem (PM). Whole, ungutted fish were stored in an ice box, with the ice refilled every two hours. The results show significant increases in the MFI values and the contents of solubilized sarcoplasmic proteins, with a molecular weight of proteins of 47 kDa in the 24 h PM samples (p < 0.05). Myofibrillar and alkaline-soluble proteins in the epaxial muscle remained intact 24 h postmortem. Compared with the 1 h PM samples, the 24 h PM meat exhibited lower degrees of expressible water and hardness (p < 0.05), indicating superior water-holding capacity and meat tenderness. However, no differences in springiness or cohesiveness of the cooked meat were observed. Free L-glutamic acid, known as an umami-tasting amino acid, was significantly increased upon the extension of postmortem duration, and its level was above the taste threshold concentration. Overall, the findings indicated that the 24 h PM epaxial muscle of Asian seabass exhibited superior technological properties, along with higher contents of taste-related amino acids.
Measurement Performance of Electronic Radon Monitors
Authors: Beck Thomas R. , Foerster Elisabeth , Biel Martin , Feige Sebastian
Published: October 2024

The measurement performance and characteristics of electronic radon monitors with respect to radiological and environmental parameters are investigated. The study includes a sample of 14 different types of devices from nine manufacturers. The devices are currently available on the market with acquisition costs in the low or medium range. For comparison purposes, a high-end AlphaGUARD device is included in the study as a benchmark for measurement performance of radon monitors. Significant differences in the measurement performance are found between the tested instrument types. Overall, however, it can be concluded that most radon monitors perform acceptably and provide reliable information on radon activity concentrations in homes or workplaces, allowing residents and employers to make decisions about the need for radon protection measures. But it turns out that many radon monitors are supplied by the manufacturer with inadequate calibration, so that the instruments must be additionally calibrated in a reference atmosphere before they can be used. Among the tested radon monitors, there are also types with sufficiently good measuring performance, which represent an inexpensive alternative to high-end devices for radon professionals.
A Nanoparticle-Coated Cellulose Acetate Membrane for Highly Efficient, Low-Cost Circulating Tumor Cell Detection
Authors: Zhao Yize , Pan Yaqi , Sun Hao , Huo Pengfei , Wang Guangtong , Liu Shaoqin
Published: October 2024

Detecting circulating tumor cells has exhibited great significance in treating cancers since its concentration is an index strongly associated with the development and transfer of the tumor. However, the present commercial method for CTC detection is still expensive, because special antibodies and complicated devices must be used for cell separation and imaging. Hence, it is quite necessary to apply alternative materials and methods to decrease the cost of CTC detection. In this article, we coated a cellulose acetate membrane with nanoparticles formed by the polymerization of melamine and furfural, creating a surface with nanoscale roughness for the highly efficient capture of the sparse CTCs in a blood sample. Subsequently, the CTCs on the surface can be quantitatively detected by colorimetry with the aid of a COF-based nanozyme. The detection limit (LOD) can be as low as 3 cells/mL, which is the lowest LOD among the colorimetric methods to our knowledge. Considering the low cost of fabricating the membrane for CTC capture and the robustness of nanozymes compared with natural enzymes, this CTC detection approach displays great potential to decrease the financial burden of commercial CTC detection.
Lookism, a Leak in the Career Pipeline? Career Perspective Consequences of Lookism Climate and Workplace Incivility
Authors: Chenevert Miren , Balducci Cristian , Vignoli Michela
Published: October 2024

Despite strides toward gender equality in the workforce, women continue to face significant challenges, including the “glass ceiling” and the “leaky pipeline”, partially stemming from low occupational self-confidence. This study examined whether a climate of lookism leads to workplace mistreatment, undermining employees’ perceptions of job competence and career potential, with a focus on gender differences. Using a cross-sectional design, data from 699 Italian workers (42.8% male, 56.3% female) were analyzed through multi-group structural equation modeling. The model explored relationships between lookism climate, workplace incivility, imposter syndrome, and perceived employability. The results revealed a full serial mediation for women; lookism climate was positively related to workplace incivility, which in turn was related to imposter syndrome, negatively impacting perceived employability. For men, no serial mediation was found; lookism climate was directly related to both incivility and imposter syndrome, with no significant relationship between the two. Like women, men experienced a negative relationship between imposter syndrome and perceived employability, yet this relationship was stronger for men. This study highlights that identifying and addressing workplace climates that foster subtle mistreatment can prevent larger issues like the leaky pipeline, suggesting targeted organizational-level intervention and prevention strategies can enhance job competence perceptions and career potential for both genders.
Preventive Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Delaware’s Underserved Communities: A Longitudinal Study (2021–2022)
Authors: Wang Sharron Xuanren , Bell Rogers Nicole , Trask Kylie , Dillard Dorothy , Harrington Melissa A.
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic officially started in March 2020 and ended in May 2023. Preventive behaviors have been proven to be one of the most effective strategies for preventing COVID-19 transmission. Common preventive behaviors against COVID-19 include but are not limited to wearing a face mask, washing and sanitizing one’s hands frequently, avoiding crowds, and avoiding traveling. Underserved communities and racial/ethnic minorities across the U.S. have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a three-wave longitudinal survey conducted from early 2021 to late 2022, the present study investigated changes in the adoption of COVID-19-preventive behaviors among residents living in Delaware’s most underserved communities. We also examined whether changes in COVID-19-preventive behaviors differed by race. Our results indicated that fewer people adopted preventive behaviors as the pandemic progressed, and this finding is applicable to both Black people and White people. However, Black people had a consistently greater likelihood of adopting preventive behaviors compared to White people from early 2021 to late 2022. Scientific and policy implications are discussed.
Multi-Objective Optimization and Sensitivity Analysis of Building Envelopes and Solar Panels Using Intelligent Algorithms
Authors: Zhao Na , Zhang Jia , Dong Yewei , Ding Chao
Published: October 2024

The global drive for sustainable development and carbon neutrality has heightened the need for energy-efficient buildings. Photovoltaic buildings, which aim to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, play a crucial role in this effort. However, the potential of the building envelope for electricity generation is often underutilized. This study introduces an efficient hybrid method that integrates Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), and the weighted Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. This integrated approach was used to optimize the external envelope structure and photovoltaic components, leading to significant reductions: overall energy consumption decreased by 41% (from 105 kWh/m2 to 63 kWh/m2), carbon emissions by 34% (from 13,307 tCO2eq to 8817 tCO2eq), and retrofit and operating costs by 20% (from CNY 13.12 million to CNY 10.53 million) over a 25-year period. Sensitivity analysis further revealed that the window-to-wall ratio and photovoltaic windows play crucial roles in these outcomes, highlighting their potential to enhance building energy performance. These results confirm the feasibility of achieving substantial energy savings and emission reductions through this optimized design approach.
Dynamic Spatiotemporal Scheduling for Construction Building Projects
Authors: Morin-Pépin Stéphane , Francis Adel
Published: October 2024

For building projects, the manager is responsible for coordinating the work of subcontractors at the construction site. This includes operations, material flows, and storage. In summary, one of their main roles is to ensure smooth team rotation, maintain fluid circulation, and avoid congestion or relaxation on the site. However, traditional tools lack the ability to consider the planning and management of worksite spaces when calculating the execution schedule and critical path. Consequently, three-week planning is usually carried out separately on independent plans, often using spreadsheets. In addition, a construction site is highly dynamic and mobile in nature, and the positioning of resources and workers can change daily. This makes the management of available space even more complex, and effective space management becomes an imperative. To address this challenge, this paper develops visual dynamic artifacts that present different operation types. The methodology and the conceptual framework facilitate the calculation of the Occupancy Rate (OR) that enables construction project managers to create simple yet dynamic spatiotemporal models of the construction schedule. By incorporating factors such as crew turnover and occupancy evolution, managers can simplify the calculation process and effectively optimize construction work by utilizing site occupancy rates. In summary, this paper presents the Dynamic Model of the Occupancy Rate Schedule (DMORS), a methodology developed through design science. This model utilizes created artifacts representing various operation types to ensure accurate calculations of dynamic occupancy by floor and sector in a site. Consequently, it enables the construction of a more realistic schedule based on critical space ideologies. The DMORS enables managers to use the OR for different floors and sectors of a site, allowing for better space management. A proof of concept demonstrates that this tool can enhance the efficiency and productivity of construction projects by optimizing crew schedules and resource allocation based on site OR.
Progressive Failure of Water-Resistant Stratum in Karst Tunnel Construction Using an Improved Meshfree Method Considering Fluid–Solid Interaction
Authors: Zhou Yuanyuan , Xia Chengzhi , Shi Zhenming , Lu Guangyin , Liu Liu , Liu Maomao
Published: October 2024

An improved meshfree method that considers cracking, contact behaviour and fluid–solid interaction (FSI) was developed and employed to shed light on the progressive failure of the water-resistant stratum and inrush process in a karst tunnel construction. Hydraulic fracturing tests considering different scenarios and inrush events of the field-scale Jigongling karst tunnel in three scenarios verify the feasibility of the improved meshfree method. The results indicate that the brittle fracture characteristics of the rock mass are captured accurately without grid re-meshing by improving the kernel function of the meshfree method. The complex contact behaviour of rock along the fracture surface during inrush is correctly captured through the introduction of Newton’s law-based block contact algorithms. FSI processing during inrush is accurately modelled by an improved two-phase adaptive adjacent method considering the discontinuous particles without coupling other solvers and additional artificial boundaries, which improves computational efficiency. Furthermore, the improved meshfree method simultaneously captures the fast inrush and rock failure in the Jigongling karst tunnel under varying thicknesses and strengths of water-resistant rocks and sizes of karst caves. As the thickness and strength of water-resistant rock increase, the possibility of an inrush disaster in the tunnel decreases, and a drop in the water level and an increase in the maximum flow velocity have significant delayed effects during the local inrush stage.
Exploring the Impact of Public Spaces on Social Cohesion in Resettlement Communities from the Perspective of Experiential Value: A Case Study of Fuzhou, China
Authors: Lai Yafeng , Wang Pohsun , Wen Kuohsun
Published: October 2024

With the rapid pace of global urbanization, the urbanization of resettlement communities in China has garnered increasing attention from scholars. This study, grounded in experiential value theory, delves into the relationship between public spaces in resettlement communities and their social cohesion. Focusing on resettlement communities in the central urban area of Fuzhou, this study employs a mixed-method approach to analyze the functional characteristics of public spaces using geospatial data, including their green coverage ratio, spatial accessibility, facility configuration, and neighborhood density. A correlation analysis and multiple linear regression were employed to identify the key elements influencing social cohesion. The results indicate significant disparities in the green coverage, accessibility, facility configuration, and neighborhood density of public spaces. These differences are evident in the quantitative metrics used and also reflect imbalances in spatial layout and resource distribution, highlighting potential pathways for optimizing the quality of public spaces. Further data analyses revealed that both emotional value (β = 0.602, p < 0.01) and functional value (β = 0.136, p < 0.01) have significant positive impacts on social cohesion, with emotional value being particularly influential. This study offers insights for urban planners and policymakers by providing scientific evidence for the optimization of public space design in resettlement communities, with implications for community governance and urban sustainability.
Cytotoxic Autophagy: A Novel Treatment Paradigm against Breast Cancer Using Oleanolic Acid and Ursolic Acid
Authors: Gupta Kunj Bihari , Gao Jie , Li Xin , Thangaraju Muthusamy , Panda Siva S. , Lokeshwar Bal L.
Published: October 2024

Background: Oleanolic acid (OA) and Ursolic acid (UA) are bioactive triterpenoids. Reported activities vary with the dose used for testing their activities in vitro. Studies using doses of ≥20 µM showed apoptosis activities in cancer cells. However, reported drug levels in circulation achieved by oral administration of UA and OA are ≤2 µM, thus limiting their use for treatment or delivering a combination treatment. Materials and Methods: The present report demonstrates the efficacy of OA, UA, and OA + UA on tumor cell-specific cytotoxicity at low doses (5 µM to 10 µM) in breast cancer (BrCa) cell lines MCF7 and MDA-MB231. Results: The data show that both OA and UA killed BrCa cells at low doses, but were significantly less toxic to MCF-12A, a non-tumorigenic cell line. Moreover, OA + UA at ≤10 µM was lethal to BrCa cells. Mechanistic studies unraveled the significant absence of apoptosis, but their cytotoxicity was due to the induction of excessive autophagy at a OA + UA dose of 5 µM each. A link to drug-induced cytotoxic autophagy was established by demonstrating a lack of their cytotoxicity by silencing the autophagy-targeting genes (ATGs), which prevented OA-, UA-, or OA + UA-induced cell death. Further, UA or OA + UA treatment of BrCa cells caused an inhibition of PI3 kinase-mediated phosphorylation of Akt/mTOR, the key pathways that regulate cancer cell survival, metabolism, and proliferation. Discussion: Combinations of a PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) with OA, UA, or OA + UA synergistically inhibited BrCa cell survival. Therefore, the dominance of cytotoxic autophagy by inhibiting PI3K-mediated autophagy may be the primary mechanism of PTT-induced anticancer activity in BrCa cells. Conclusion: These results suggest it would be worthwhile testing combined OA and UA in clinical settings.
Synthesis, Material Properties, and Organocatalytic Performance of Hypervalent Iodine(III)-Oxidants in Core–Shell-Structured Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Grand Julien , Alayrac Carole , Moldovan Simona , Witulski Bernhard
Published: October 2024

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) based on magnetite (Fe3O4) are attractive catalyst supports due to their high surface area, easy preparation, and facile separation, but they lack stability in acidic reaction media. The search for MNPs stable in oxidative acidic reaction media is a necessity if one wants to combine the advantages of MNPs as catalyst supports with those of iodine(III) reagents being environmentally benign oxidizers. In this work, immobilized iodophenyl organocatalysts on magnetite support (IMNPs) were obtained by crossed-linking polymerization of 4-iodostyrene with 1,4-divinylbenzene in the presence of MNPs. The obtained IMNPs were characterized by TGA, IR, SEM, STEM, and HAADF to gain information on catalyst morphology, average particle size (80–100 nm), and their core–shell structure. IMNP-catalysts tested in (i) the α-tosyloxylation of propiophenone 1 with meta-chloroperbenzoic acid (m-CPBA) and (ii) in the oxidation of 9,10-dimethoxyanthracene 3 with Oxone® as the side-oxidant showed a similar performance as reactions using stoichiometric amounts of iodophenyl. The developed IMNPs withstand strong acidic conditions and serve as reusable organocatalysts. They are recyclable up to four times for repeated organocatalytic oxidations with rates of recovery of 80–92%. This is the first example of a—(4-iodophenyl)polystyrene shell—magnetite core-structured organocatalyst withstanding strong acidic reaction conditions.
Studies on Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of MoS2/X (X = WSe2, MoSe2, AlN, and ZnO) Heterojunction by First Principles
Authors: Liu Jibo , Jin Yuheng , Lei Bocheng , Zhao Xucai , Huang Yineng , Zhang Lili , Zhu Youliang
Published: October 2024

The single-layer MoS2 is a highly sought-after semiconductor material in the field of photoelectric performance due to its exceptional electron mobility and narrow bandgap. However, its photocatalytic efficiency is hindered by the rapid recombination rate of internal photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Currently, the construction of heterojunctions has been demonstrated to effectively mitigate the recombination rate of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Therefore, this paper employs the first principles method to calculate and analyze the four heterojunctions formed by MoS2/WSe2, MoS2/MoSe2, MoS2/AlN, and MoS2/ZnO. The study demonstrates that the four heterojunctions exhibit structural stability. The construction of heterojunctions, as compared to a monolayer MoS2, leads to a reduction in the band gap, thereby lowering the electron transition barrier and enhancing the light absorption capacity of the materials. The four systems exhibit II-type heterojunction. Therefore, the construction of heterojunctions can effectively enhance the optical properties of these systems. By forming heterojunctions MoS2/WSe2 and MoS2/MoSe2, the absorption coefficient in the visible light region is significantly increased, resulting in a greater ability to respond to light compared to that of MoS2/ZnO and MoS2/AlN. Consequently, MoS2-based heterojunctions incorporating chalcogenide components WSe2 and MoSe2, respectively, exhibit superior catalytic activity compared to MoS2 heterojunctions incorporating non-chalcogenide components ZnO and AlN, respectively. The absorption spectrum analysis reveals that MoS2/MoSe2 exhibits the highest light responsivity among all investigated systems, indicating its superior photoelectric performance.
The Biochemistry of Artificial CO2-Fixation Pathways: The Exploitation of Carboxylase Enzymes Alternative to Rubisco
Authors: Tommasi Immacolata C.
Published: October 2024

The last decade has registered a rapid development of new artificial CO2-bioconversion processes mirroring natural CO2-fixation by carboxylation and/or reduction reactions. The development of artificial pathways has shown that we have sufficient tools to design and implement, both in vitro and in vivo, complex reaction sequences pointing to construct microbial cell-factories to produce target chemicals at scale. This review is aimed to focus on the most efficient artificial CO2-fixing autotrophic cycles based on the use of carboxylase enzymes that, similarly to Rubisco enzyme, build a C–CO2 bond by reacting an enediolate or an enolate anion with CO2. The development of artificial CO2-fixing autotrophic cycles encompasses the analysis of the complete library of natural carboxylase enzymes taking part in the so called “central” and “assimilation” metabolism to select only those enzymes characterized by high catalytic efficiency, great stability, high substrate affinity, and oxygen tolerability. The review analyzes the biochemistry of the most efficient artificial CO2-fixation pathways implemented up today, evidencing the biosynthetic strategies adopted, the development of replenishing routes, and their integration with cell metabolism.
Study of Hot-Dip Aluminium Plating Based on Micro-Morphology and Coating Bond Strength
Authors: Zhang Chen , Wang Bingying , Sun Xiaoyong , Liu Lin , Liu Enyang , Guo Haodong , Yin Lu , Yang Junze , Ma Jialei
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen barrier coatings with Al2O3 as the main component are a good choice for solving the hydrogen embrittlement problem during hydrogen transportation in long-distance pipelines. However, the difference in the coefficients of thermal expansion between the substrate and the Al2O3 coating limits its further utilisation and development. In this study, rare earth oxides were added to the molten aluminium solution, and a Fe-Al transition layer was introduced on the surface of X80 steel by hot-dip plating to solve the thermal mismatch. Here, the microstructure and bonding strength of the hot-dip aluminium layer were investigated. It is found that the hot-dip aluminium coating consists of the outermost aluminium-rich layer and the inner Fe-Al alloy layer, and the microstructure of the two will change with the change in dip plating parameters. The best overall performance of the hot-dip aluminium layer was obtained from X80 steel substrate at a dip plating temperature of 700 °C and a dip plating time of 5 min. This coating has a good interface, moderate thickness, and a bond strength of 49 N. This study provides a reference value for solving the thermal mismatch between the steel substrate and the Al2O3 hydrogen barrier coating generated by subsequent anodising.
A Review on Preparation of Palladium Oxide Films
Authors: Badica Petre , Lőrinczi Adam
Published: October 2024

Fabrication aspects of PdO thin films and coatings are reviewed here. The work provides and organizes the up-to-date information on the methods to obtain the films. In recent years, the interest in Pd oxide for different applications has increased. Since Pd can be converted into PdO, it is instructive to pay attention to the preparation of the pure and the alloyed Pd films, heterostructures, and nanoparticles synthesized on different substrates. The development of PdO films is presented from the early reports on coatings’ formation by oxidation of Pd foils and wires to present technologies. Modern synthesis/growth routes are gathered into chemical and physical categories. Chemical methods include hydrothermal, electrochemical, electroless deposition, and coating methods, such as impregnation, precipitation, screen printing, ink jet printing, spin or dip coating, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and atomic layer deposition (ALD), while the physical ones include sputtering and cathodic arc deposition, laser ablation, ion or electron beam-induced deposition, evaporation, and supersonic cluster beam deposition. Analysis of publications indicates that many as-deposited Pd or Pd-oxide films are granular, with a high variety of morphologies and properties targeting very different applications, and they are grown on different substrates. We note that a comparative assessment of the challenges and quality among different films for a specific application is generally missing and, in some cases, it is difficult to make a distinction between a film and a randomly oriented, powder-like (granular), thin compact material. Textured or epitaxial films of Pd or PdO are rare and, if orientation is observed, in most cases, it is obtained accidentally. Some practical details and challenges of Pd oxidation toward PdO and some specific issues concerning application of films are also presented.
The PAR3TY Project: Revealing Unique Cancer Experiences and Insights of Teenagers and Young Adults through Patient Engagement, Participation, and Performance
Authors: O’Grady Alice , Heykoop Cheryl A. , Weigler Will
Published: October 2024

Cancer in teenagers and young adults (TYAs) coincides with major life transitions and presents unique psychosocial challenges. Understanding the experiences and needs of TYAs is critical. TYAs want to play an active role in improving cancer for TYAs; however, few opportunities exist for TYAs to do so. Using a tri-partite methodology, an international team collaborated with four TYA co-researchers in this pilot study to explore how performative staging strategies help convey TYA experiences with cancer. Using creative video, TYA co-researchers shared cancer experiences and insights in novel, impactful ways. The process provided intrinsic benefits for co-researchers to connect with other TYAs and creatively share their experiences and perspectives. Furthermore, it provided space for dialogue between TYAs and cancer care allies where TYAs could convey the nuances of their cancer experiences and how cancer care could be improved. This tri-partite methodology can support TYAs to actively engage in a process of connection, reflection, creation, and dissemination to improve cancer experiences for TYAs.
Molecular Markers in Follicular and Oncocytic Thyroid Carcinomas: Clinical Application of Molecular Genetic Testing
Authors: Belaiche Alicia , Morand Grégoire B. , Turkdogan Sena , Kang Esther ShinHyun , Forest Véronique-Isabelle , Pusztaszeri Marc P. , Hier Michael P. , Mlynarek Alex M. , Richardson Keith , Sadeghi Nader , Mascarella Marco A. , Da Silva Sabrina D. , Payne Richard J.
Published: October 2024

Background: Oncocytic thyroid carcinoma (OTC) was previously considered a variant of follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) but has recently been reclassified as a separate form of thyroid cancer. This study aimed to demonstrate that FTC and OTC are fundamentally distinct entities that can potentially be differentiated preoperatively through cytology and/or molecular testing. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with FTC and OTC operated upon at two university health centers from January 2016 to September 2023 (n = 3219) was conducted. Molecular testing results were correlated with histopathologic diagnosis. Results: Fifty patients met the inclusion criteria. FTC was identified in 27 (54.0%) patients, and OTC in 23 (46.0%) patients. Patients with OTC were older (61.8 years) than FTC patients (51.2 years) (p = 0.013). Moreover, aggressive tumors were found in 39.1% (9/23) of OTCs compared to 11.1% (3/27) of FTCs (p = 0.021). Amongst Bethesda category III and IV nodules, 17 out of 20 (85.0%) OTC cytology reports demonstrated an oncocytic subtype compared to only 5 out of 24 FTC cytology reports (20.8%) (p = 0.002). On molecular testing, the EIF1AX alteration was exclusively present in OTCs while the PAX8/PPARy and PTEN alterations were exclusively found in FTCs. Copy number alterations (CNAs) were found to be more prevalent in OTC (66.7%) compared to FTC (33.3%), and they were not indicative of tumor aggressiveness. Within the OTC group, all three patients who had a TP53 alteration were diagnosed with aggressive cancer. Lastly, the OTCs exhibited a higher frequency of multiple alterations on molecular testing (66.7%) compared to FTCs (33.3%). Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the largest study to date comparing the clinical application of abnormalities found on molecular testing for FTC and OTC. It further demonstrates the distinct clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of OTC.
Vertical Stratification of Butterfly Assemblages Persists in Highly Disturbed Forest Fragments of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Silva Denise B. , Freitas André V. L. , Junior Oscar F. , Santos Jessie P.
Published: October 2024

Vertical stratification is a property of forest habitats related to the differential distribution of organisms according to the variation in the conditions, from the understory to the canopy. Here, we aimed to test whether butterfly assemblages from highly disturbed forests maintain the pattern of vertical stratification. We hypothesized that degraded forests would not exhibit vertical stratification due to the low variation in the microhabitat conditions along the vertical gradient, resulting from the canopy openness. To test this, we sampled fruit-feeding butterflies with bait traps, alternately disposed between the understory and canopy of three secondary forest fragments in a very fragmented Atlantic Forest landscape, for one year. We found that the vertical strata differed in terms of species composition, with a high contribution by the nestedness component on the beta diversity spatial variation. The understory assemblages had a higher abundance and were more diverse than the upper stratum. We demonstrated that vertical stratification is maintained even in disturbed forests; however, this does not necessarily provide support for a good quality and functioning ecosystem in these habitats. The butterfly assemblages recorded here are a subset of the species pool that inhabits conserved remnants. Thus, even being represented by species commonly found in disturbed habitats, the dynamic of vertical stratification of assemblages remains.
Assessment of Common Ragweed (Ambrosia Artemisiifolia L.) Seed Predation in Crop Fields and Their Adjacent Semi-Natural Habitats in Hungary
Authors: Dorner Zita , Osman Mohammed Gaafer Abdelgfar , Kukorellyné Szénási Ágnes , Zalai Mihály
Published: October 2024

Ambrosia artemisiifolia has turned into a noxious weed species in agricultural fields and landscapes in Europe. Durable control options are still needed to limit the abundance of this species. Weed seed consumption by naturally occurring seed predators is a key ecosystem service in agricultural areas. Seed predation levels of common ragweed were examined in wheat and maize fields and adjacent semi-natural habitats (SNHs). To evaluate the weed seeds’ exposure to invertebrate seed predators, 20 cards each were set on the soil surface inside the crop field and in SNHs with four replications. Twenty seeds of ragweed were attached to sandpaper. Seed removal was assessed every 24 h of exposure for 5 days in June and November 2019, October 2020, and June 2021. The seed consumption level was measured according to the number of removed seeds from the seed cards. High consumption rates of ragweed seeds were found in all sampling rounds in both seasons and habitats. The seed predation rates in 2019 were stronger within crop fields in summer than in autumn with a slight difference between SNHs and inside fields. Our results demonstrate the possibility of seed predation contributing to Integrated Plant Protection (IPM) of common ragweed in rural areas.
Bias in O-Information Estimation
Authors: Gehlen Johanna , Li Jie , Hourican Cillian , Tassi Stavroula , Mishra Pashupati P. , Lehtimäki Terho , Kähönen Mika , Raitakari Olli , Bosch Jos A. , Quax Rick
Published: October 2024

Higher-order relationships are a central concept in the science of complex systems. A popular method of attempting to estimate the higher-order relationships of synergy and redundancy from data is through the O-information. It is an information–theoretic measure composed of Shannon entropy terms that quantifies the balance between redundancy and synergy in a system. However, bias is not yet taken into account in the estimation of the O-information of discrete variables. In this paper, we explain where this bias comes from and explore it for fully synergistic, fully redundant, and fully independent simulated systems of n=3 variables. Specifically, we explore how the sample size and number of bins affect the bias in the O-information estimation. The main finding is that the O-information of independent systems is severely biased towards synergy if the sample size is smaller than the number of jointly possible observations. This could mean that triplets identified as highly synergistic may in fact be close to independent. A bias approximation based on the Miller–Maddow method is derived for the O-information. We find that for systems of n=3 variables the bias approximation can partially correct for the bias. However, simulations of fully independent systems are still required as null models to provide a benchmark of the bias of the O-information.