bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unimodular random one-ended planar graphs are sofic
Authors: Timár Ádám
Published: June 2023

We prove that if a unimodular random graph is almost surely planar and has finite expected degree, then it has a combinatorial embedding into the plane which is also unimodular. This implies the claim in the title immediately by a theorem of Angel, Hutchcroft, Nachmias and Ray [2]. Our unimodular embedding also implies that all the dichotomy results of [2] about unimodular maps extend in the one-ended case to unimodular random planar graphs.
Management of a facial nerve schwannoma with fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy: a case report
Authors: Mousli Alia , Ayadi Hadhemi , Yousfi Amani , Abidi Rim , Nasr Chiraz
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Neuroma of the facial nerve (NFN) is an extremely rare benign tumour that can involve any segment of the facial nerve. It is revealed by facial weakness with or without hearing loss and has commonly been managed by microsurgery. Our purpose is to systematically review the literature about the role of fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FSRT) on the treatment of NFN.

Clinical case:

We report the case of a 70-year-old-woman who presented progressively worsening facial paralysis associated with mild conductive hearing loss and dizziness. The multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was very suggestive of an intrapetrous neuroma, centred on the tract of the VII nerve and the left geniculate ganglion. She was treated by FSRT at the dose of 18 Gy in three fractions on the isodose line 80 %. After 18-month follow-up, she reported a facial weakness improvement. The MRI revealed a stable disease.

Conclusion:

The clinical presentation of the schwannoma of the facial nerve depends essentially on its location. It is therefore very variable, ranging from an isolated mild hearing loss to a vestibular syndrome with facial paralysis. Through this observation with literature review, we reported a long-term tumour control with improvement of pre-treatment symptomatology with FSRT.
Observation and Parameterization of Bottom Shear Stress and Sediment Resuspension in a Large Shallow Lake
Authors: Lin S. , Boegman L. , Jabbari A. , Valipour R. , Zhao Y.
Published: June 2023

Parameterizations for bottom shear stress are required to predict sediment resuspension from field observations and within numerical models that do not resolve flow within the viscous sublayer. This study assessed three observation‐based bottom shear stress (τb) parameterizations, including (a) the sum of surface wave stress and mean current (quadratic) stress (); (b) the log‐law (τb = τL); and (c) the turbulent kinetic energy (τb = τTKE); using 2 years of observations from a large shallow lake. For this system, the parameterizationτb = τw+τcwas sufficient to qualitatively predict resuspension, since bottom currents and surface wave orbitals were the two major processes found to resuspend bottom sediments. However, theτLandτTKEparameterizations also captured the development of a nepheloid layer within the hypolimnion associated with high‐frequency internal waves. Reynolds‐averaged Navier‐Stokes (RANS) equation models parameterizeτbas the summation of modeled current‐induced bottom stress (τc,m) and modeled surface wave‐induced bottom stress (τw,m). The performance of different parameterizations forτw,mandτc,min RANS models was assessed against the observations. The optimal parameterizations yielded root‐mean‐square errors of 0.031 and 0.025 Pa, respectively, whenτw,m, andτc,mwere set using a constant canonical drag coefficient. A RANS‐basedτLparameterization was developed; however, the grid‐averaged modeled dissipation did not always match local observations, leading toO(10) errors in prediction of bottom stress. Turbulence‐based parameterizations should be further developed for application to flows with mean shear‐free boundary turbulence.
How Scientists Can Safeguard Themselves Online
Authors: Rachael Lyle-Thompson
Published: June 2023

Scientists are always at risk of digital harassment by bad actors looking to undermine scientific credibility and progress, but there are protective steps they can take.
Supersized Potholes Discovered off South African Coast
Authors: Besl J.
Published: June 2023

Curious circular pits off South Africa’s Eastern Cape coast are larger than any similar feature previously recorded. Their origin remains a morphological mystery.
Interhemispheric Asymmetry of the Thermospheric Neutral Density Response to the 7–9 September 2017 Geomagnetic Storms
Authors: Zhu Qingyu , Lu Gang , Lei Jiuhou , Deng Yue , Doornbos Eelco , van den IJssel Jose , Siemes Christian
Published: June 2023

The thermospheric neutral density response to the 7–9 September 2017 storms is investigated based on the Swarm satellite observations and the thermosphere‐ionosphere‐electrodynamic general circulation model (TIEGCM) simulation. The Swarm data depicted a prominent interhemispheric asymmetry (IHA) in the afternoon sector during the second storm, a feature that was yet explained. Driven by realistic high‐latitude electric potential and electron precipitation patterns, the TIEGCM is able to reproduce the observed storm‐time neutral density response. The TIEGCM simulation reveals that the differences in the traveling atmospheric disturbances (TADs) is largely responsible for the observed IHA in the neutral mass density response at low and middle latitudes, whereas the difference in mean molecular mass between the two hemispheres may contribute to the IHA in neutral density at higher latitudes. The IHAs in TADs and mean molecular mass are attributed to the IHA in Joule heating dissipation on the night and dawn sides.
The Temperature and Composition of the Mantle Sources of Martian Basalts
Authors: Collinet Max , Plesa Ana‐Catalina , Ruedas Thomas , Schwinger Sabrina , Breuer Doris
Published: June 2023

The composition of basaltic melts in equilibrium with the mantle can be determined for several Martian meteorites and in‐situ rover analyses. We use the melting model MAGMARS to reproduce these primary melts and estimate the bulk composition and temperature of the mantle regions from which they originated. We find that most mantle sources are depleted in CaO and Al2O3 relative to models of the bulk silicate Mars and likely represent melting residues or magma ocean cumulates. The concentrations of Na2O, K2O, P2O5, and TiO2 are variable and often less depleted, pointing to the re‐fertilization of the sources by fluids and low‐degree melts, or the incorporation of residual trapped melts during the crystallization of the magma ocean. The mantle potential temperatures of the sources are 1400–1500°C, regardless of the time at which they melted and within the range of the most recent predictions from thermochemical evolution models.
Modulation of bone remodeling by the gut microbiota: a new therapy for osteoporosis
Authors: Lyu Zhengtian , Hu Yongfei , Guo Yuming , Liu Dan
Published: June 2023

The gut microbiota (GM) plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and well-being of the host. Recent studies have demonstrated that the GM may significantly influence bone metabolism and degenerative skeletal diseases, such as osteoporosis (OP). Interventions targeting GM modification, including probiotics or antibiotics, have been found to affect bone remodeling. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent research on the role of GM in regulating bone remodeling and seeks to elucidate the regulatory mechanism from various perspectives, such as the interaction with the immune system, interplay with estrogen or parathyroid hormone (PTH), the impact of GM metabolites, and the effect of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Moreover, this review explores the potential of probiotics as a therapeutic approach for OP. The insights presented may contribute to the development of innovative GM-targeted therapies for OP.
An end-to-end convolutional neural network for automated failure localisation and characterisation of 3D interconnects
Authors: Paulachan Priya , Siegert Jörg , Wiesler Ingo , Brunner Roland
Published: June 2023

The advancement in the field of 3D integration circuit technology leads to new challenges for quality assessment of interconnects such as through silicon vias (TSVs) in terms of automated and time-efficient analysis. In this paper, we develop a fully automated high-efficient End-to-End Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model, utilizing two sequentially linked CNN architectures, suitable to classify and locate thousands of TSVs as well as provide statistical information. In particular, we generate interference patterns of the TSVs by conducting a unique concept of Scanning Acoustic Microscopy (SAM) imaging. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is used to validate and also disclose the characteristic pattern in the SAM C-scan images. By comparing the model with semi-automated machine learning approaches its outstanding performance is illustrated, indicating a localisation and classification accuracy of 100% and greater than 96%, respectively. The approach is not limited to SAM-image data and presents an important step towards zero defect strategies.
Antimicrobial activity of cold atmospheric-pressure argon plasma combined with chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) extract against P. aeruginosa and E. coli biofilms
Authors: Shabani H. , Dezhpour A. , Jafari S. , Moghaddam M. J. Mehdipour , Nilkar M.
Published: June 2023

The present study reports a significant combined antibacterial activity ofCichorium intybusL. (known asChicory) natural extract with cold atmospheric-pressure argon plasma treatment against multi-drug resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria. To detect reactive species that are generated in the argon plasma, optical emission spectra were recorded. The molecular bands were allocated to the hydroxyl radicals (OH) and neutral nitrogen molecules (N2). Moreover, the atomic lines form the emitted spectra were determined to argon atoms (Ar) and the oxygen atoms (O), respectively. The results revealed thatChicoryextract treatment at a concentration of 0.043 g/ml reduced the metabolic activity ofP. aeruginosacells by 42%, while, a reduced metabolic activity of 50.6% was found forE. colibiofilms. Moreover, the combination ofChicoryextract with 3 min Ar-plasma introduced a synergistic effect, so that it exhibited a significantly reduced metabolic activity ofP. aeruginosato 84.1%, andE. coliones to 86.7%, respectively. The relationship between cell viability and membrane integrity ofP. aeruginosaandE. colibiofilms treated withChicoryextract and argon plasma jet were also analyzed by CLSM. It was found that after the combined treatment, a noticeable membrane disruption was formed. Besides, it was concluded thatE. colibiofilms showed a higher sensitivity to Ar-plasma thanP. aeruginosabiofilm at longer plasma exposure times. This study suggests that the anti-biofilm therapy based on a combined effect ofChicoryextract and cold argon plasma treatment can serve as a considerable green method for treatment of antimicrobial MDR bacteria.
Association of MTR gene polymorphisms with the occurrence of non-syndromic congenital heart disease: a case–control study
Authors: Liu Yiping , Zhong Taowei , Song Xinli , Zhang Senmao , Sun Mengting , Wei Jianhui , Shu Jing , Yang Tubao , Wang Tingting , Qin Jiabi
Published: June 2023

To exhaustively explore the association of infant genetic polymorphisms of methionine synthase (MTR) gene with the risk of non-syndromic congenital heart disease (CHD). A hospital-based case–control study involving 620 CHD cases and 620 health controls was conducted from November 2017 to March 2020. Eighteen SNPs were detected and analyzed. Our date suggested that the genetic polymorphisms of MTR gene at rs1805087 (GG vs. AA: aOR = 6.85, 95% CI 2.94–15.96; the dominant model: aOR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.35–2.32; the recessive model: aOR = 6.26, 95% CI 2.69–14.54; the addictive model: aOR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.44–2.29) and rs2275565 (GT vs. GG: aOR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.15–1.20; TT vs. GG: aOR = 4.93, 95% CI 1.93–12.58; the dominant model: aOR = 1.66, 95% CI 1.27–2.17; the recessive model: aOR = 4.41, 95% CI 1.73–11.22; the addictive model: aOR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.32–2.13) were significantly associated with the higher risk of CHD. And three haplotypes of G-A-T (involving rs4659724, rs95516 and rs4077829; OR = 5.48, 95% CI 2.58–11.66), G-C-A-T-T-G (involving rs2275565, rs1266164, rs2229276, rs4659743, rs3820571 and rs1050993; OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.63–0.97) and T-C-A-T-T-G (involving rs2275565, rs1266164, rs2229276, rs4659743, rs3820571 and rs1050993; OR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.26–2.04) were observed to be significantly associated with risk of CHD. Our study found that genetic polymorphisms of MTR gene at rs1805087 and rs2275565 were significantly associated with higher risk of CHD. Additionally, our study revealed a significant association of three haplotypes with risk of CHD. However, the limitations in this study should be carefully taken into account. In the future, more specific studies in different ethnic populations are required to refine and confirm our findings.

Trial registration: Registration number: ChiCTR1800016635; Date of first registration: 14/06/2018.
Recovery of pinch force sense after short-term fatigue
Authors: Li Lin , Li Yan-xia , Zhang Chong-long , Zhang Dong-hai
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to identify the exact origin of force sense and identify whether it arises centrally or peripherally. The present study was designed to analyze the effects of short-term fatigue on pinch force sense and the duration of these effects. During the fatigue protocol, twenty (10 men and 10 women; Mage = 22.0 years old) young Chinese participants were asked to squeeze maximally until the pinch grip force decreased to 50% of its maximal due to fatigue. Participants were instructed to produce the target force (10% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction) using the same hand before and after fatigue (immediately, 10, 30, 60, 180, 300 s). The results showed significantly higher absolute error immediately after fatigue (1.22 ± 1.06 N) than before fatigue (0.68 ± 0.34 N), and 60 s (0.76 ± 0.69 N), 180 s (0.67 ± 0.42 N), and 300 s (0.75 ± 0.37 N) after fatigue (all P < 0.05) but with no effect on the variable error (P > 0.05). It was also revealed that there was a significant overestimate of the constant error values before (0.32 ± 0.61 N) and immediately after fatigue (0.80 ± 1.38 N, all P < 0.05), while no significant overestimation or underestimation exceeded 300 s after fatigue (P > 0.05). Our study results revealed that short-term fatigue resulted in a significant decrease in force sense accuracy, but it did not affect force sense consistently; however, force sense accuracy recovered to a certain extent within 10 s and 30 s, whereas it recovered fully within 60 s, and force sense directivity improvement exceeded 300 s after fatigue. The present study shows that the sense of tension (peripherally) is also an important factor affecting force sense. Our study supports the view that the periphery is part of the origin of force sense.
Vermilion and cinnabar are involved in ommochrome pigment biosynthesis in eyes but not wings of Bicyclus anynana butterflies
Authors: How Shaun Hong Chuen , Banerjee Tirtha Das , Monteiro Antόnia
Published: June 2023

If the same pigment is found in different tissues in a body, it is natural to assume that the same metabolic pathways are deployed similarly in each tissue. Here we show that this is not the case for ommochromes, the red and orange pigments found in the eyes and wings of butterflies. We tested the expression and function of vermilion and cinnabar, two known fly genes in the ommochrome pathway, in the development of pigments in the eyes and in the wings of Bicyclus anynana butterflies, both traits having reddish/orange pigments. By using fluorescent in-situ hybridization (HCR3.0) we localized the expression of vermilion and cinnabar in the cytoplasm of pigment cells in the ommatidia but observed no clear expression for either gene on larval and pupal wings. We then disrupted the function of both genes, using CRISPR-Cas9, which resulted in the loss of pigment in the eyes but not in the wings. Using thin-layer chromatography and UV–vis spectroscopy we identified the presence of ommochrome and ommochrome precursors in the orange wing scales and in the hemolymph of pupae. We conclude that the wings either synthesize ommochromes locally, with yet unidentified enzymes or incorporate these pigments synthesized elsewhere from the hemolymph. Different metabolic pathways or transport mechanisms, thus, lead to the presence of ommochromes in the wings and eyes of B. anynana butterflies.
GLP‑1 receptor agonist protects palmitate-induced insulin resistance in skeletal muscle cells by up-regulating sestrin2 to promote autophagy
Authors: Tian Xue , Gao Yu , Kong Mowei , Zhao Lihua , Xing Enhong , Sun Qitian , He Jianqiu , Lu Yanan , Feng Zengbin
Published: June 2023

In this study, we aimed to determine whether liraglutide could effectively reduce insulin resistance (IR) by regulating Sestrin2 (SESN2) expression in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells by examining its interactions with SESN2, autophagy, and IR. L6 cells were incubated with liraglutide (10–1000 nM) in the presence of palmitate (PA; 0.6 mM), and cell viability was detected using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. IR-related and autophagy-related proteins were detected using western blotting, and IR and autophagy-related genes were analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Silencing SESN2 was used to inhibit the activities of SESN2. A reduction in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was observed in PA-treated L6 cells, confirming IR. Meanwhile, PA decreased the levels of GLUT4 and phosphorylation of Akt and affected SESN2 expression. Further investigation revealed that autophagic activity decreased following PA treatment, but that liraglutide reversed this PA-induced reduction in autophagic activity. Additionally, silencing SESN2 inhibited the ability of liraglutide to up-regulate the expression of IR-related proteins and activate autophagy signals. In summary, the data showed that liraglutide improved PA-induced IR in L6 myotubes by increasing autophagy mediated by SESN2.
Fractional magnetoresistance oscillations in spin-triplet superconducting rings
Authors: Halász Gábor B.
Published: June 2023

Half-quantum vortices in spin-triplet superconductors are predicted to host Majorana zero modes and may provide a viable platform for topological quantum computation. Recent works also suggested that, in thin mesoscopic rings, the superconducting pairing symmetry can be probed via Little-Parks-like magnetoresistance oscillations of periodicity Φ0 = h/2e that persist below the critical temperature. Here we use the London limit of Ginzburg-Landau theory to study these magnetoresistance oscillations resulting from thermal vortex tunneling in spin-triplet superconducting rings. For a range of temperatures in the presence of disorder, we find magnetoresistance oscillations with an emergent fractional periodicity Φ0/n, where the integer n ≥ 3 is entirely determined by the ratio of the spin and charge superfluid densities. These fractional oscillations can unambiguously confirm the spin-triplet nature of superconductivity and directly reveal the tunneling of half-quantum vortices in real-world candidate materials.
Reduction of Cardiovascular Disease Risks with Dietary Antioxidant Supplements
Authors: Liu Lianliang , Li Yueqin , Dong Lezhen , Zhang Yunzhen , Wu Zufang , Xiao Jianbo
Published: June 2023

Heart and cerebrovascular diseases are collectively referred to as cardiovascular disease (CVD), which has the highest incidence and mortality rate in the world. Atherosclerosis (AS) is the basis of CVD, induced by oxidative stress and inflammation. Hyperlipidaemia and hypertension play a critical role in AS, which inevitably causes reactive oxygen species overproduction, thus accelerating CVD occurrence. Adequate intake of foods rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids can effectively reduce CVD risks. The mechanisms are related to the following: (i) lowering blood lipids, (ii) blood pressure regulation, (iii) inhibiting the oxidative enzyme system and Fenton reaction, and (iv) regulating inflammatory factor expression. This chapter provides a theoretical foundation for comprehensively exploring the potential health benefits of biologically active ingredients in foods that help reduce CVD risks.
The Effect of Consuming Spices on Vascular Function
Authors: Oh Ester S. , Rogers Connie J. , Petersen Kristina S. , Kris-Etherton Penny M.
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally. Vascular dysfunction is a major contributor to cardiovascular risk. Oxidative stress and inflammation play key roles in vascular dysfunction. Studies have thus far reported the effects of consuming spices (and herbs) on improving vascular function and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the results of human intervention studies that evaluated the effect of spices (cinnamon, garlic, ginger, and turmeric/curcumin) on vascular function and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, the mechanism(s) of action that may underlie the effect of these spices on vascular function is(are) discussed.
Digestive Health and Gastrointestinal Protection
Authors: Chen Sheng-Yi , Yen Gow-Chin
Published: June 2023

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is responsible for multiple functions, including digestion and absorption of food which directly affect systemic health through reactive oxygen species scavenging, immune function modulation, and gut microbiota communication. Now, approximately 40.3% of individuals suffer from GI disorders globally which causes a huge burden on individuals, families, and the society. Fortunately, substantial evidence has shown that polyphenol-rich diets and cooking oils play a crucial role in the prevention of GI disorders, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Camellia oil (Camellia oleifera Abel. and Camellia brevistyla) is a great cooking oil with nearly 90% unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and polyphenols. The GI protection capacity of camellia oil is well documented in Asia. Besides, several polyphenols are naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables, which have abundant antioxidants for GI protection through gut microbiota modulation. The emerging evidence unmasks the contribution of GI protection through various signalling transduction, antioxidative, and gut microbiota modulation abilities. However, the underlying biological mechanisms of GI protection by polyphenol and camellia oil treatment are not integrated. In this chapter, the underlying mechanisms for GI protective effects by camellia oil and other phytochemicals through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, mucosal healing, and gut microbiota modulation are summarized.
Probing local lateral forces of focal adhesions and cell–cell junctions of living cells by torsional force spectroscopy
Authors: Walter Katrin , Bourquin Jan , Amiri Anahid , Scheer Niklas , Dehnert Martin , Eichhorn Anna Lisa , Dietz Christian
Published: June 2023

Torsional force spectroscopy maps the in-plane lateral forces as a function of the indentation depth of living biological cells.
Phenanthroline-modified DNA three-way junction structures stabilized by interstrand 3 : 1 metal complexation
Authors: Takezawa Yusuke , Kanemaru Daisuke , Kudo Naofumi , Shionoya Mitsuhiko
Published: June 2023

DNA three-way junction structures modified with phenanthroline (phen) ligands were found to be significantly stabilized by the formation of an interstrand NiII(phen)3 complex.
Effects of solvent conditions on the self-assembly of heterotrimeric collagen-like peptide (CLP) triple helices: a coarse-grained simulation study
Authors: Taylor Phillip A. , Kronenberger Stephen , Kloxin April M. , Jayaraman Arthi
Published: June 2023

Collagen-like peptide heterotrimers are computationally designed to create percolated networks as a function of solvent quality and multifunctional materials of interest to the biomaterials community.
Comparative study of the co-assembly behaviour of 3-chloro-4-hydroxy-phenylazo dyes with DTAB
Authors: Müller Wenke , Schweins Ralf , Nöcker Bernd , Kohlbrecher Joachim , Smales Glen J , Huber Klaus
Published: June 2023

Three azo dyes with a congruent structural sub-unit bind to the cationic surfactant dodecyltrimethylammoniumbromide (DTAB) at different stoichiometries. Trends in binding stoichiometry were related to morphological changes of dye/DTAB micelles.
Poly(vinyl acetate-co-crotonic acid) from bio-based crotonic acid: synthesis, characterization and carbon footprint evaluation
Authors: Jorea Alexandra , Parodi Adriano , Benelli Tiziana , Ciacci Luca , Fagnoni Maurizio , Galletti Paola , Mazzocchetti Laura , Ravelli Davide , Torri Cristian , Vassura Ivano , Samorì Chiara
Published: June 2023

Poly(vinyl acetate-co-crotonic acid) is synthesised starting from crotonic acid obtained from sewage sludge through the integration of (thermo)chemical and biological approaches, resulting in the valorization of a waste into a resource in a circular economy perspective.
Catalyzing sustainability: phytic acid as a green precursor for metal-free carbon electrocatalysts in ORR
Authors: García-Dalí Sergio , Quílez-Bermejo Javier , Castro-Gutiérrez Jimena , Izquierdo María T. , Celzard Alain , Fierro Vanessa
Published: June 2023

Phytic acid (PA) carbonization at 900 °C produces P-doped carbons with outstanding ORR electrocatalytic activity, highlighting the potential of PA-derived carbon materials in energy conversion.
Shear-aligned large-area organic semiconductor crystals through extended π–π interaction
Authors: Zhang Song , Talnack Felix , Jousselin-Oba Tanguy , Bhat Vinayak , Wu Yilei , Lei Yusheng , Tomo Yoko , Gong Huaxin , Michalek Lukas , Zhong Donglai , Wu Can , Yassar Abderrahim , Mannsfeld Stefan , Risko Chad , Frigoli Michel , Bao Zhenan
Published: June 2023

TIPS-PPP, a novel TIPS-PEN derivative, features a vertically extended pentacene core for increased π–π overlap, enabling exploration of structure–morphology–property connections and exhibiting enhanced stability/electronic performance.
ANGPTL8 deletion attenuates abdominal aortic aneurysm formation in ApoE−/− mice
Authors: Yu Huahui , Jiao Xiaolu , Yang Yunyun , Lv Qianwen , Du Zhiyong , Li Linyi , Hu Chaowei , Du Yunhui , Zhang Jing , Li Fan , Sun Qiuju , Wang Yu , Chen Dong , Zhang Xiaoping , Qin Yanwen
Published: June 2023

Angiopoietin-like protein 8 (ANGPTL8) plays important roles in lipid metabolism, glucose metabolism, inflammation, and cell proliferation and migration. Clinical studies have indicated that circulating ANGPTL8 levels are increased in patients with thoracic aortic dissection (TAD). TAD shares several risk factors with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). However, the role of ANGPTL8 in AAA pathogenesis has never been investigated. Here, we investigated the effect of ANGPTL8 knockout on AAA in ApoE−/− mice. ApoE−/−ANGPTL8−/− mice were generated by crossing ANGPTL8−/− and ApoE−/− mice. AAA was induced in ApoE−/− using perfusion of angiotensin II (AngII). ANGPTL8 was significantly up-regulated in AAA tissues of human and experimental mice. Knockout of ANGPTL8 significantly reduced AngII-induced AAA formation, elastin breaks, aortic inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinase expression, and smooth muscle cell apoptosis in ApoE−/− mice. Similarly, ANGPTL8 sh-RNA significantly reduced AngII-induced AAA formation in ApoE−/− mice. ANGPTL8 deficiency inhibited AAA formation, and ANGPTL8 may therefore be a potential therapeutic target for AAA.
In-flight radiometric calibration of the Metis Visible Light channel using stars and comparison with STEREO-A/COR2 data
Authors: De Leo Y. , Burtovoi A. , Teriaca L. , Romoli M. , Chioetto P. , Andretta V. , Uslenghi M. , Landini F. , Susino R. , Pancrazzi M. , Frassati F. , Giarrusso M. , Giordano S. , Zangrilli L. , Spadaro D. , Abbo L. , Bemporad A. , Capobianco G. , Capuano G. E. , Casini C. , Casti M. , Corso A. J. , Da Deppo V. , Fabi M. , Fineschi S. , Frassetto F. , Grimani C. , Guglielmino S. L. , Heinzel P. , Jerse G. , Liberatore A. , Magli E. , Massone G. , Messerotti M. , Moses J. D. , Naletto G. , Nicolini G. , Pelizzo M. G. , Romano P. , Russano G. , Sasso C. , Schühle U. , Straus T. , Slemer A. , Stangalini M. , Telloni D. , Volpicelli C. A. , Zuppella P.
Published: June 2023

Context.We present the results for the in-flight radiometric calibration performed for the Visible Light (VL) channel of the Metis coronagraph on board Solar Orbiter.

Aims.The radiometric calibration is a fundamental step in building the official pipeline of the instrument, devoted to producing the calibrated data in physical units (L2 data).

Methods.To obtain the radiometric calibration factor (ϵVL), we used stellar targets transiting the Metis field of view. We derivedϵVLby determining the signal of each calibration star by means of the aperture photometry and calculating its expected flux in the Metis band pass. The analyzed data set covers the time range from the beginning of the Cruise Phase of the mission (June 2020) until March 2021.

Results.Considering the uncertainties, the estimated factorϵVLis in a good agreement with that obtained during the on-ground calibration campaign. This implies that up to March 2021 there was no measurable reduction in the VL channel throughput. Finally, we compared the total and polarized brightness visible light images of the solar corona acquired with Metis and STEREO-A/COR2 during the November 2020 superior conjunction of these instruments. A general good agreement was obtained between the images of these instruments for both the total and polarized brightness.
The massive relic galaxy NGC 1277 is dark matter deficient
Authors: Comerón Sébastien , Trujillo Ignacio , Cappellari Michele , Buitrago Fernando , Garduño Luis E. , Zaragoza-Cardiel Javier , Zinchenko Igor A. , Lara-López Maritza A. , Ferré-Mateu Anna , Dib Sami
Published: June 2023

According to the Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology, present-day galaxies with stellar massesM⋆ > 1011 M⊙should contain a sizable fraction of dark matter within their stellar body. Models indicate that in massive early-type galaxies (ETGs) withM⋆ ≈ 1.5 × 1011 M⊙, dark matter should account for ∼15% of the dynamical mass within one effective radius (1 Re) and for ∼60% within 5 Re. Most massive ETGs have been shaped through a two-phase process: the rapid growth of a compact core was followed by the accretion of an extended envelope through mergers. The exceedingly rare galaxies that have avoided the second phase, the so-called relic galaxies, are thought to be the frozen remains of the massive ETG population atz ≳ 2. The best relic galaxy candidate discovered to date is NGC 1277, in the Perseus cluster. We used deep integral fieldGeorgeandCynthia MitchelSpectrograph (GCMS) data to revisit NGC 1277 out to an unprecedented radius of 6 kpc (corresponding to 5 Re). By using Jeans anisotropic modelling, we find a negligible dark matter fraction within 5 Re(fDM(5 Re) < 0.05; two-sigma confidence level), which is in tension with the ΛCDM expectation. Since the lack of an extended envelope would reduce dynamical friction and prevent the accretion of an envelope, we propose that NGC 1277 lost its dark matter very early or that it was dark matter deficient ab initio. We discuss our discovery in the framework of recent proposals, suggesting that some relic galaxies may result from dark matter stripping as they fell in and interacted within galaxy clusters. Alternatively, NGC 1277 might have been born in a high-velocity collision of gas-rich proto-galactic fragments, where dark matter left behind a disc of dissipative baryons. We speculate that the relative velocities of ≈2000 km s−1required for the latter process to happen were possible in the progenitors of the present-day rich galaxy clusters.
The MeerKAT Fornax Survey
Authors: Kleiner D. , Serra P. , Maccagni F. M. , Raj M. A. , de Blok W. J. G. , Józsa G. I. G. , Kamphuis P. , Kraan-Korteweg R. , Loi F. , Loni A. , Loubser S. I. , Molnár D. Cs. , Oosterloo T. A. , Peletier R. , Pisano D. J.
Published: June 2023

We present MeerKAT Fornax Survey atomic hydrogen (H I) observations of the dwarf galaxies located in the central ∼2.5 × 4 deg2 of the Fornax galaxy cluster (Rvir ∼2°). The H I images presented in this work have a 3σ column density sensitivity between 2.7 and 50 × 1018 cm−2 over 25 km s−1 for spatial resolution between 4 and 1 kpc. We are able to detect an impressive MHI = 5 × 105 M⊙ 3σ point source with a line width of 50 km s−1 at a distance of 20 Mpc. We detected H I in 17 out of the 304 dwarfs in our field, with 14 out of the 36 late-type dwarfs (LTDs) and three out of the 268 early-type dwarfs (ETDs). The H I-detected LTDs have likely just joined the cluster and are on their first infall as they are located at large clustocentric radii, with comparable MHI and mean stellar surface brightness at fixed luminosity as blue, star-forming LTDs in the field. By contrast, the H I-detected ETDs have likely been in the cluster longer than the LTDs and acquired their H I through a recent merger or accretion from nearby H I. Eight of the H I-detected LTDs host irregular or asymmetric H I emission and disturbed or lopsided stellar emission. There are two clear cases of ram pressure shaping the H I, with the LTDs displaying compressed H I on the side closest to the cluster centre and a one-sided, starless tail pointing away from the cluster centre. The H I-detected dwarfs avoid the most massive potentials (i.e. cluster centre and massive galaxies), consistent with massive galaxies playing an active role in the removal of H I. We created a simple toy model to quantify the timescale of H I stripping in the cluster by reproducing the observed Mr′–MHI relation. We find that a MHI = 108 M⊙ dwarf is stripped in ∼240 Myr. The model is consistent with our observations, where low-mass LTDs are directly stripped of their H I from a single encounter and more massive LTDs can harbour a disturbed H I morphology due to longer times or multiple encounters being required to fully strip their H I. This is the first time dwarf galaxies with MHI ≲ 1 × 106 M⊙ have been detected and resolved beyond the local group and in a galaxy cluster.
Spacetime finite element methods for control problems subject to the wave equation
Authors: Burman Erik , Feizmohammadi Ali , Münch Arnaud , Oksanen Lauri
Published: June 2023

We consider the null controllability problem for the wave equation, and analyse a stabilized finite element method formulated on a global, unstructured spacetime mesh. We prove error estimates for the approximate control given by the computational method. The proofs are based on the regularity properties of the control given by the Hilbert Uniqueness Method, together with the stability properties of the numerical scheme. Numerical experiments illustrate the results.
Γ-convergence and stochastic homogenisation of phase-transition functionals
Authors: Marziani Roberta
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the asymptotics of singularly perturbed phase-transition functionals of the form

ℱk(u) = 1/εk∫Afk(𝑥,u,εk∇u)d𝑥,

whereu∈ [0, 1] is a phase-field variable, εk> 0 a singular-perturbation parameteri.e., εk→ 0, ask→ +∞, and the integrandsfkare such that, for everyxand everyk,fk(x, ·, 0) is a double well potential with zeros at 0 and 1. We prove that the functionalsFkΓ-converge (up to subsequences) to a surface functional of the form

ℱ∞(u) = ∫Su∩Af∞(𝑥,𝜈u)dHn-1,

whereu∈BV(A; {0, 1}) andf∞is characterised by the double limit of suitably scaled minimisation problems. Afterwards we extend our analysis to the setting of stochastic homogenisation and prove a Γ-convergence result forstationary randomintegrands.
The value of the blockchain platform for shipping logistics considering the perceived utility of consumers
Authors: Chen Yan-Ting , Li Deng-Feng
Published: June 2023

Blockchain has been widely used to trace logistics information from sources to destinations in shipping logistics practices. Motivated by market practices, this study intends to discuss the potential application value of blockchain platforms in shipping logistics, considering the perceived utility of consumers. For this purpose, to investigate the shipping logistics supply chain (SLSC) of a shipping company (SC) and a freight forwarding company (FFC), in which FFC decides whether to introduce a blockchain platform and its introduction channel. Specifically, three channel models are considered: Model T (i.e., traditional logistics supply chain channel), Model B (i.e., FFCs applied a blockchain platform via a self-built platform channel), and Model J (i.e., FFCs applied a blockchain platform via joining a third-party platform channel). Meanwhile, the Nash and Stackelberg game are used to characterize the companies’ equilibrium outcomes under different power structures. By comparing these three modes, some interesting results are found: consumer perception of the level of service and privacy protection and consumer sensitivity to price has critical effects on the value of blockchain platforms. Results also show that the blockchain platform does not always motivate the members of the SLSC to become better. Whether the power structure is symmetrical or asymmetrical, FFC adopts Model B instead of Model J, in which the blockchain platform can help FFC increase profits, and the value of blockchain is significant. Moreover, the FFC can obtain at least approximately 78% more benefit when the power structure is symmetrical than asymmetrical. However, the value of blockchain platforms to SC is not necessarily significant. The value of the blockchain platform for SC is significant only in Model B with the power structure asymmetric. Therefore, the value of the blockchain platform in Model B with the power structure asymmetrical for both FFCs and SCs is significant, achieving a win-win situation. Also, an extensive numerical analysis showing the optimal channel strategy in the three models generated additional management insights.
Research on supply chain pricing decisions considering the advertising effect under market encroachment
Authors: Shi Song
Published: June 2023

Based on a Stackelberg game, this paper establishes supply chain models in which an incumbent manufacturer invests in advertising and the retailer invests in advertising when there is a new entrant manufacturer. By solving the model, the subgame perfect equilibrium under different conditions is obtained, and then the influences of the advertising coefficient and the degree of differentiation of two brands on the pricing decisions of supply chain members are investigated. The results show that: in the incumbent manufacturer advertising model, the wholesale prices and retail prices of the incumbent manufacturer and the encroaching manufacturer change as the advertising coefficient and the degree of differentiation of the two brands change. In the retailer’s advertising model, the wholesale prices, retail prices and profits of the incumbent manufacturer and the encroaching manufacturer are all higher than those of the benchmark model within the limited scope. Some valuable information could be provided for supply chain enterprises to develop collaborative strategies and promote supply chain management practices.
Evaluation of the Influence of Build Orientation on the Surface Roughness and Flexural Strength of 3D-Printed Denture Base Resin and Its Comparison with CAD-CAM Milled Denture Base Resin
Authors: Alharethi Naji Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine the surface roughness and flexural strength of a three-dimensional (3D)-printed denture base resin printed with two different build plate orientations and to compare them with a computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacture (CAD-CAM) milled denture base resin.

Materials and Methods Sixty-six specimens (n = 22/group) were prepared by 3D printing and CAD-CAM technology. The group A and B specimens were 3D-printed bar-shaped denture base specimens printed at 120-degree and 135-degree build orientation, respectively, whereas group C specimens were milled using a CAD-CAM technology. The surface roughness was assessed using a noncontact profilometer with a 0.01 mm resolution and the flexural strength was determined using a three-point bend test. The maximum load in Newtons (N) at fracture, the flexural stress (MPa), and strain (mm/mm) was also measured.

Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed by a statistical software package. One-way analysis of variance test was applied to determine whether significant differences existed among the study groups, followed by Bonferroni post-hoc test to determine which resin group significantly differed from the others in terms of flexural strength and surface roughness (p ≤ 0.05).

Results The flexural stress (MPa) of group C was 200% of group A and 166% of group B. The flexural modulus was 192% of group A and 161% of group B. In contrast, group A had the lowest mean value among the three groups for all the parameters. No significant difference was seen between group A and group B. The mean roughness values of the CAD-CAM denture base resin specimens (group C) were the least (127356 nm) among all the three groups. The mean surface roughness of the 3D-printed denture base specimens (group A) was 1,34,234 nm and that of group B was (1,45,931 nm); however, it was statistically nonsignificant (p > 0.05)

Conclusions The CAD-CAM resin displayed superior surface and mechanical properties compared to the 3D-printed resin. The two different build plate angles did not have any significant effect on the surface roughness of the 3D-printed denture base resin.
Plasma Cell Leukemia—Clinicopathological Profile from a Tertiary Care Center in Western India
Authors: Manimaran Poornima , Rai Varnika , Ranka Rahul , Sawhney Jyoti
Published: June 2023

Introduction Plasma cell leukemia (PCL) is very uncommon and aggressive neoplasm constituting 2 to 4% of all plasma cell dyscrasias. By definition, clonal plasma cells should make up 20% of peripheral blood or have an absolute plasma cell count of 2 × 109 cells/cu.mm. PCL can be primary or secondary. In this study, the clinicohematological features of PCL, and correlation of immunophenotypic profile and conventional therapies with overall survival was analyzed.

Materials and Methods This retrospective study involved PCL patients who were diagnosed across a 12-year period, from 2010 to 2021, at a tertiary care center in western India. Clinical, biochemical, peripheral smear, bone marrow aspirate, immunophenotyping, and molecular analysis were performed.

Results Total 39 PCL patients were included in the study among which 36 were primary PCL patients. Splenomegaly (10/27), hepatomegaly (6/26), and lymphadenopathy (5/23) were noted. At presentation, all patients had anemia (<11g/dL), thrombocytopenia (33/39), hypercalcemia (>11mg/dl) 10/33 (30.3%) and lytic lesions was noted in 18/26 (69.2%).

Immunophenotype of these patients showed CD 38 positivity, CD 138 positivity, CD56 positivity, and CD 117 negativity were 100, 62, 41.6, and 89%, respectively. Overall survival of our patients was 4.1 months and overall survival of patients treated with VTD (bortezomib, thalidomide, dexamethasone) and VCD (bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone) regimen was 3.4 and 4.1 months, respectively, which was not statically significant (p-value 0.816). CD117 and CD56 markers were also not having any prognostic significance (p-value 1.000 and 0.873, respectively).

Conclusion Because of rarity of the disease, prospective studies are very limited and hence management and outcome of the disease are difficult to analyze. The current treatment protocols have no survival advantage and hence newer therapeutic approach is mandatory to attain better outcome.
Insider stories: analyzing internal sustainability efforts of major US companies from online reviews
Authors: Sen Indira , Quercia Daniele , Capra Licia , Montecchi Matteo , Šćepanović Sanja
Published: June 2023

It is hard to establish whether a company supports internal sustainability efforts (ISEs) like gender equality, diversity, and general staff welfare, not least because of a lack of methodologies operationalizing these internal sustainability practices, and of data honestly documenting such efforts. We developed and validated a six-dimension framework reflecting Internal Sustainability Efforts (ISEs), gathered more than 350K employee reviews of 104 major companies across the whole US for the (2008-2020) years, and developed a deep-learning framework scoring these reviews in terms of the six ISEs. Commitment to ISEs manifested itself at the micro-level—companies scoring high in ISEs enjoyed high stock growth. This new conceptualization of ISEs offers both theoretical implications for the literature on corporate sustainability and practical implications for companies and policy makers. To further explore these implications, researchers need to add potentially missing ISEs, to do so for more companies, and establish the causal relationship between company success and ISEs.
Targeting the ADPKD methylome using nanoparticle-mediated combination therapy
Authors: Trinh Annie , Huang Yi , Shao Hanjuan , Ram Aparna , Morival Julien , Wang Jonathan , Chung Eun Ji , Downing Timothy L.
Published: June 2023

DNA methylation aberrancies are found in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), which suggests the methylome to be a promising therapeutic target. However, the impact of combining DNA methylation inhibitors (DNMTi) and ADPKD drugs in treating ADPKD and on disease-associated methylation patterns has not been fully explored. To test this, ADPKD drugs, metformin and tolvaptan (MT), were delivered in combination with DNMTi 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (Aza) to 2D or 3D cystic Pkd1 heterozygous renal epithelial cells (PKD1-Het cells) as free drugs or within nanoparticles to enable direct delivery for future in vivo applications. We found Aza synergizes with MT to reduce cell viability and cystic growth. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) was performed across four groups: PBS, Free-Aza (Aza), Free-Aza+MT (F-MTAza), and Nanoparticle-Aza+MT (NP-MTAza). Global methylation patterns showed that while Aza alone induces a unimodal intermediate methylation landscape, Aza+MT recovers the bimodality reminiscent of somatic methylomes. Importantly, site-specific methylation changes associated with F-MTAza and NP-MTAza were largely conserved including hypomethylation at ADPKD-associated genes. Notably, we report hypomethylation of cancer-associated genes implicated in ADPKD pathogenesis as well as new target genes that may provide additional therapeutic effects. Overall, this study motivates future work to further elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of observed drug synergy and apply these combination therapies in vivo.
On the semiotic diversity of language
Authors: Lepeut Alysson , Beukeleers Inez
Published: June 2023

Language is complex in many respects. When conceived as a system that is to be analysed at all levels of
linguistic structure, it is interpreted as a static and abstract phenomenon in which the rules are disconnected from their context
of use. However, the ability to do language, construed as a fundamentally social practice grounded in our in situ
face-to-face interactions, does not exclusively rely on knowing the rules that govern the grammatical principles in a given
language, nor does it limit itself to understanding the lexical content of utterances. Language is more than that; it is
fundamentally social and inherently multimodal in that it enables all humans to create, express, and construe meaningful
utterances through their bodies. For a long time, however, linguistic theories have neglected to consider the diverse and rich
ways humans do language using their bodies. In this introduction, particular attention is paid to the different
roles the body plays across a range of distinct sign languages and contexts. In that respect, a short historical detour into the
evolutive stages of sign language research is provided first. Next, the aims and the different contributions of this volume are
outlined. Finally, some conclusions are drawn.