bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mucosal vaccine-induced cross-reactive CD8+ T cells protect against SARS-CoV-2 XBB.1.5 respiratory tract infection
Authors: Ying Baoling , Darling Tamarand L. , Desai Pritesh , Liang Chieh-Yu , Dmitriev Igor P. , Soudani Nadia , Bricker Traci , Kashentseva Elena A. , Harastani Houda , Raju Saravanan , Liu Meizi , Schmidt Aaron G. , Curiel David T. , Boon Adrianus C. M. , Diamond Michael S.
Published: February 2024

A nasally delivered chimpanzee adenoviral-vectored severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine (ChAd-SARS-CoV-2-S) is currently used in India (iNCOVACC). Here, we update this vaccine by creating ChAd-SARS-CoV-2-BA.5-S, which encodes a prefusion-stabilized BA.5 spike protein. Whereas serum neutralizing antibody responses induced by monovalent or bivalent adenoviral vaccines were poor against the antigenically distant XBB.1.5 strain and insufficient to protect in passive transfer experiments, mucosal antibody and cross-reactive memory T cell responses were robust, and protection was evident against WA1/2020 D614G and Omicron variants BQ.1.1 and XBB.1.5 in mice and hamsters. However, depletion of memory CD8+ T cells before XBB.1.5 challenge resulted in loss of protection against upper and lower respiratory tract infection. Thus, nasally delivered vaccines stimulate mucosal immunity against emerging SARS-CoV-2 strains, and cross-reactive memory CD8+ T cells mediate protection against lung infection by antigenically distant strains in the setting of low serum levels of cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies.
JH-2 constitutive model of sandstone for dynamic problems
Authors: Baranowski Paweł , Kucewicz Michał , Janiszewski Jacek
Published: February 2024

This paper demonstrates the application of the Johnson–Holmquist II (JH-2) model with correlated and validated parameters to simulate the behavior of a sandstone. The JH-2 model is used to simulate various tests, including single-element tests, structural quasi-static uniaxial and triaxial compression tests, and the split Hopkinson pressure bar test. Additionally, the model is used to simulate drop-weight impact test using a ball bearing and two loading scenarios involving small-scale blasting and projectile impacts. Quantitative and qualitative comparisons demonstrate that the JH-2 model agrees well with both experimental and analytical results. Limitations of the model are also highlighted, particularly for quasi-static problems, as the model was originally developed for high-strain-rate simulations. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that the JH-2 rock constitutive model can obtain reasonable results for a material other than the material for which the model was originally correlated and validated. This paper provides valuable guidance for modeling and simulating sandstone and other rock materials subjected to dynamic loadings.
Pilot study on cultural and metagenomic analysis of bile and biliary stentslead to unveiling the key players in stent occlusion
Authors: Cacaci Margherita , De Maio Flavio , Matteo Maria Valeria , Posteraro Brunella , Di Vito Maura , Menchinelli Giulia , Tringali Andrea , Monzo Francesca Romana , Torelli Riccardo , Costamagna Guido , Spada Cristiano , Bugli Francesca , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Boskoski Ivo
Published: February 2024

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography (ERCP) with biliary stenting is a minimally invasive medical procedure employed to address both malignant and benign obstructions within the biliary tract. Benign biliary strictures (BBSs), typically arising from surgical interventions such as liver transplants and cholecystectomy, as well as chronic inflammatory conditions, present a common clinical challenge. The current gold standard for treating BBSs involves the periodic insertion of plastic stents at intervals of 3–4 months, spanning a course of approximately one year. Unfortunately, stent occlusion emerges as a prevalent issue within this treatment paradigm, leading to the recurrence of symptoms and necessitating repeated ERCPs. In response to this clinical concern, we initiated a pilot study, delving into the microbial composition present in bile and on the inner surfaces of plastic stents. This investigation encompassed 22 patients afflicted by BBSs who had previously undergone ERCP with plastic stent placement. Our preliminary findings offered promising insights into the microbial culprits behind stent occlusion, with Enterobacter and Lactobacillus spp. standing out as prominent bacterial species known for their biofilm-forming tendencies on stent surfaces. These revelations hold promise for potential interventions, including targeted antimicrobial therapies aimed at curtailing bacterial growth on stents and the development of advanced stent materials boasting anti-biofilm properties.
Demonstration of nuclear gamma-ray polarimetry based on a multi-layer CdTe Compton camera
Authors: Go S. , Tsuzuki Y. , Yoneda H. , Ichikawa Y. , Ikeda T. , Imai N. , Imamura K. , Niikura M. , Nishimura D. , Mizuno R. , Takeda S. , Ueno H. , Watanabe S. , Saito T. Y. , Shimoura S. , Sugawara S. , Takamine A. , Takahashi T.
Published: February 2024

To detect and track structural changes in atomic nuclei, the systematic study of nuclear levels with firm spin-parity assignments is important. While linear polarization measurements have been applied to determine the electromagnetic character of gamma-ray transitions, the applicable range is strongly limited due to the low efficiency of the detection system. The multi-layer Cadmium-Telluride (CdTe) Compton camera can be a state-of-the-art gamma-ray polarimeter for nuclear spectroscopy with the high position sensitivity and the detection efficiency. We demonstrated the capability to operate this detector as a reliable gamma-ray polarimeter by using polarized 847-keV gamma rays produced by the $$^{56}\textrm{Fe}$$

56

Fe

($${ p},{ p'}\gamma $$

p
,

p
′

γ

) reaction. By combining the experimental data and simulated calculations, the modulation curve for the gamma ray was successfully obtained. A remarkably high polarization sensitivity was achieved, compatible with a reasonable detection efficiency. Based on the obtained results, a possible future gamma-ray polarimetery is discussed.
Atmospheric formaldehyde production on early Mars leading to a potential formation of bio-important molecules
Authors: Koyama Shungo , Kamada Arihiro , Furukawa Yoshihiro , Terada Naoki , Nakamura Yuki , Yoshida Tatsuya , Kuroda Takeshi , Vandaele Ann Carine
Published: February 2024

Formaldehyde (H2CO) is a critical precursor for the abiotic formation of biomolecules, including amino acids and sugars, which are the building blocks of proteins and RNA. Geomorphological and geochemical evidence on Mars indicates a temperate environment compatible with the existence of surface liquid water during its early history at 3.8–3.6 billion years ago (Ga), which was maintained by the warming effect of reducing gases, such as H2. However, it remains uncertain whether such a temperate and weakly reducing surface environment on early Mars was suitable for producing H2CO. In this study, we investigated the atmospheric production of H2CO on early Mars using a 1-D photochemical model assuming a thick CO2-dominated atmosphere with H2 and CO. Our results show that a continuous supply of atmospheric H2CO can be used to form various organic compounds, including amino acids and sugars. This could be a possible origin for the organic matter observed on the Martian surface. Given the previously reported conversion rate from H2CO into ribose, the calculated H2CO deposition flux suggests a continuous supply of bio-important sugars on early Mars, particularly during the Noachian and early Hesperian periods.
Resource choice during ontogeny enhances both the short- and longer-term welfare of laying hen pullets
Authors: Holt Regine Victoria , Skånberg Lena , Keeling Linda J. , Estevez Inma , Newberry Ruth C.
Published: February 2024

We hypothesised that resource choice during early life contributes to both current and longer-term beneficial effects on animal welfare. We investigated this hypothesis in a longitudinal cross-over experiment with laying hen pullets (Gallus gallus domesticus) reared in pens with one or four litter and perch types, respectively (n = 8 pens/treatment, all providing ample and identical litter and perch space). After 4 weeks (chick period), half the pens were modified to provide the opposite treatment (juvenile period). After 11 more weeks, all groups were moved to novel, identical laying pens (adult period; Week 16–27). In support of our hypothesis, the opportunity to choose between multiple litter and perch variants was associated with higher levels of positively-valenced behaviours, including play as chicks and dustbathing as juveniles and adults, and lower levels of negatively-valenced behaviours, including feather pecking as chicks and juveniles and aggressive pecking as adults. Resource choice in the juvenile period also led to better juvenile and adult plumage condition, and greater growth as adults. We conclude that the opportunity to choose among different litter and perch types, instead of having only one type of each, had both short- and longer-term positive effects on the birds’ affective states and physical condition.
Assessing the effects of pandemic risk on cooperation and social norms using a before-after Covid-19 comparison in two long-term experiments
Authors: Vriens Eva , Szekely Aron , Lipari Francesca , Antonioni Alberto , Sánchez Angel , Tummolini Luca , Andrighetto Giulia
Published: February 2024

How does threat from disease shape our cooperative actions and the social norms that guide such behaviour? To study these questions, we draw on a collective-risk social dilemma experiment that we ran before the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic (Wave 1, 2018) and compare this to its exact replication, sampling from the same population, that we conducted during the first wave of the pandemic (Wave 2, 2020). Tightness-looseness theory predicts and evidence generally supports that both cooperation and accompanying social norms should increase, yet, we mostly did not find this. Contributions, the probability of reaching the threshold (cooperation), and the contents of the social norm (how much people should contribute) remained similar across the waves, although the strength of these social norms were slightly greater in Wave 2. We also study whether the results from Wave 1 that should not be affected by the pandemic—the relationship between social norms and cooperation and specific behavioural types—replicate in Wave 2 and find that these results generally hold. Overall, our work demonstrates that social norms are important drivers of cooperation, yet, communicable diseases, at least in the short term, have little or no effects on either.
Drosophila expressing mutant human KCNT1 transgenes make an effective tool for targeted drug screening in a whole animal model of KCNT1-epilepsy
Authors: Hussain Rashid , Lim Chiao Xin , Shaukat Zeeshan , Islam Anowarul , Caseley Emily A. , Lippiat Jonathan D. , Rychkov Grigori Y. , Ricos Michael G. , Dibbens Leanne M.
Published: February 2024

Mutations in the KCNT1 potassium channel cause severe forms of epilepsy which are poorly controlled with current treatments. In vitro studies have shown that KCNT1-epilepsy mutations are gain of function, significantly increasing K+ current amplitudes. To investigate if Drosophila can be used to model human KCNT1 epilepsy, we generated Drosophila melanogaster lines carrying human KCNT1 with the patient mutation G288S, R398Q or R928C. Expression of each mutant channel in GABAergic neurons gave a seizure phenotype which responded either positively or negatively to 5 frontline epilepsy drugs most commonly administered to patients with KCNT1-epilepsy, often with little or no improvement of seizures. Cannabidiol showed the greatest reduction of the seizure phenotype while some drugs increased the seizure phenotype. Our study shows that Drosophila has the potential to model human KCNT1- epilepsy and can be used as a tool to assess new treatments for KCNT1- epilepsy.
Vascularised cardiac spheroids-on-a-chip for testing the toxicity of therapeutics
Authors: Di Cio Stefania , Marhuenda Emilie , Haddrick Malcolm , Gautrot Julien E.
Published: February 2024

Microfabricated organ-on-a-chips are rapidly becoming the gold standard for the testing of safety and efficacy of therapeutics. A broad range of designs has emerged, but recreating microvascularised tissue models remains difficult in many cases. This is particularly relevant to mimic the systemic delivery of therapeutics, to capture the complex multi-step processes associated with trans-endothelial transport or diffusion, uptake by targeted tissues and associated metabolic response. In this report, we describe the formation of microvascularised cardiac spheroids embedded in microfluidic chips. Different protocols used for embedding spheroids within vascularised multi-compartment microfluidic chips were investigated first to identify the importance of the spheroid processing, and co-culture with pericytes on the integration of the spheroid within the microvascular networks formed. The architecture of the resulting models, the expression of cardiac and endothelial markers and the perfusion of the system was then investigated. This confirmed the excellent stability of the vascular networks formed, as well as the persistent expression of cardiomyocyte markers such as cTNT and the assembly of striated F-actin, myosin and α-actinin cytoskeletal networks typically associated with contractility and beating. The ability to retain beating over prolonged periods of time was quantified, over 25 days, demonstrating not only perfusability but also functional performance of the tissue model. Finally, as a proof-of-concept of therapeutic testing, the toxicity of one therapeutic associated with cardiac disfunction was evaluated, identifying differences between direct in vitro testing on suspended spheroids and vascularised models.
Short tandem repeat mutations regulate gene expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Verbiest Max A. , Lundström Oxana , Xia Feifei , Baudis Michael , Bilgin Sonay Tugce , Anisimova Maria
Published: February 2024

Short tandem repeat (STR) mutations are prevalent in colorectal cancer (CRC), especially in tumours with the microsatellite instability (MSI) phenotype. While STR length variations are known to regulate gene expression under physiological conditions, the functional impact of STR mutations in CRC remains unclear. Here, we integrate STR mutation data with clinical information and gene expression data to study the gene regulatory effects of STR mutations in CRC. We confirm that STR mutability in CRC highly depends on the MSI status, repeat unit size, and repeat length. Furthermore, we present a set of 1244 putative expression STRs (eSTRs) for which the STR length is associated with gene expression levels in CRC tumours. The length of 73 eSTRs is associated with expression levels of cancer-related genes, nine of which are CRC-specific genes. We show that linear models describing eSTR-gene expression relationships allow for predictions of gene expression changes in response to eSTR mutations. Moreover, we found an increased mutability of eSTRs in MSI tumours. Our evidence of gene regulatory roles for eSTRs in CRC highlights a mostly overlooked way through which tumours may modulate their phenotypes. Future extensions of these findings could uncover new STR-based targets in the treatment of cancer.
Development of an indirect ELISA for the serodiagnosis of canine infection by Onchocerca lupi
Authors: Latrofa Maria Stefania , Louzada-Flores Viviane Noll , Maia Carla , Kelly Maureen A. , Verocai Guilherme G. , Cantacessi Cinzia , Otranto Domenico
Published: February 2024

Onchocercalupi is a zoonotic filarioid parasite of dogs and cats with widespread distribution. A specific non-invasive diagnostic assay for the detection of O.lupi infections remains unavailable. This study aimed to assess the accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of an ELISA test designed using nine peptides from two O.lupi proteins. Sera (n = 54) collected from O.lupi infected dogs from endemic areas (Portugal and USA), alongside sera from dogs positive for Dirofilariaimmitis, D.repens, Cercopithifilariabainae, and Acanthocheilonemareconditum (n = 53) from a non-endemic area for O.lupi, as well as from helminth-free dogs (n = 60), were tested. The checkerboard titration method was applied for the optimization of peptide concentrations and conjugate anti-dog dilutions. Sensitivity, specificity, and optimal cut-off values were calculated using ROC curve analysis. All peptides reacted against sera of O.lupi, with no correlation between optic density (OD) values and microfilariae (mfs) loads. Sensitivity and specificity values ranging from 85.45 to 100%, and 88.89% to 100%, respectively, were recorded for all peptides examined, with 100% specificity and sensitivity observed for peptides 40_3, 40_5, 130_3, 120_3 and 40_1, 130_5, respectively. The maximum cut-off value was observed for peptides 40_5 (0.765) and 40_3 (0.708). Testing of sera from dogs positive for other filarioids resulted in lower OD values (up to 1.565) for peptides 40_3 and 40_5 when compared with O.lupi (up to 2.929). The availability of this assay will be of value in epidemiological studies of canine O.lupi infection in both endemic and non-endemic areas, and in assessing the risk for zoonotic transmission.
Gut microbiota composition is altered in postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and post-acute COVID-19 syndrome
Authors: Hamrefors Viktor , Kahn Fredrik , Holmqvist Madlene , Carlson Katherine , Varjus Roosa , Gudjonsson Alexander , Fedorowski Artur , Ohlsson Bodil
Published: February 2024

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) reflects an autonomic dysfunction, which can occur as a complication to COVID-19. Our aim was to examine gastrointestinal symptoms and gut microbiota composition in patients with POTS and post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS), compared with controls. POTS patients (n = 27), PACS patients (n = 32) and controls (n = 39) delivered fecal samples and completed a 4-day food diary, irritable bowel syndrome-severity scoring system (IBS-SSS), and visual analog scale for IBS (VAS-IBS). A total of 98 DNA aliquots were sequenced to an average depth of 28.3 million (M) read pairs (Illumina 2 × 150 PE) per sample. Diversity and taxonomic levels of the microbiome, as well as functional abundances were calculated for POTS and PACS groups, then compared with controls. There were several differences in taxonomic composition between POTS and controls, whereas only the abundance of Ascomycota and Firmicutes differed between PACS and controls. The clinical variables total IBS-SSS, fatigue, and bloating and flatulence significantly correlated with multiple individual taxa abundances, alpha diversity, and functional abundances. We conclude that POTS, and to a less extent PACS, are associated with differences in gut microbiota composition in diversity and at several taxonomic levels. Clinical symptoms are correlated with both alpha diversity and taxonomic and functional abundances.
Antimicrobial potential of Streptomyces coeruleofuscus SCJ isolated from microbiologically unexplored garden soil in Northwest Morocco
Authors: Rammali Said , Rahim Abdellatif , El Aalaoui Mohamed , Bencharki Bouchaib , Dari Khadija , Habach Aicha , Abdeslam Lamiri , khattabi Abdelkrim
Published: February 2024

Research on microorganisms in various biotopes is required to identify new, natural potent molecules. These molecules are essential to control the development of multi-drug resistance (MDR). In the present study, a Streptomyces sp., namely SCJ, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a Moroccan garden. SCJ isolate was identified on the basis of a polyphasic approach, which included cultural, micro-morphological, biochemical, and physiological characteristics. The sequence of the 16S rRNA gene of the SCJ strain showed 99.78% similarity to strains of Streptomyces coeruleofuscus YR-T (KY753282.1). The preliminary screening indicated that the SCJ isolate exhibited activity against Candida albicans ATCC 60,193, Escherichia coli ATCC 25,922, Staphylococcus aureus CECT 976, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25,923, Bacillus cereus ATCC 14,579, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27,853, as well as various other clinical MDR bacteria and five phytopathogenic fungi. The ethyl acetate extract of the isolated strain demonstrated highly significant (p < 0.05) antimicrobial activity against multi-resistant bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi. The absorption spectral analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of the SCJ isolate obtained showed no absorption peaks characteristic of polyene molecules. Moreover, no hemolytic activity against erythrocytes was observed in this extract. GC–MS analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of the SCJ isolate revealed the presence of 9 volatile compounds including 3,5-Dimethylpyrazole, and pyrrolizidine derivatives (Pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine 1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl)), which could potentially explain the antimicrobial activity demonstrated in this study.
Assortative mixing of opinions about COVID-19 vaccination in personal networks
Authors: Hâncean Marian-Gabriel , Lerner Jürgen , Perc Matjaž , Molina José Luis , Geantă Marius
Published: February 2024

Many countries worldwide had difficulties reaching a sufficiently high vaccination uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given this context, we collected data from a panel of 30,000 individuals, which were representative of the population of Romania (a country in Eastern Europe with a low 42.6% vaccination rate) to determine whether people are more likely to be connected to peers displaying similar opinions about COVID-19 vaccination. We extracted 443 personal networks, amounting to 4430 alters. We estimated multilevel logistic regression models with random-ego-level intercepts to predict individual opinions about COVID-19 vaccination. Our evidence indicates positive opinions about the COVID-19 vaccination cluster. Namely, the likelihood of having a positive opinion about COVID-19 vaccination increases when peers have, on average, a more positive attitude than the rest of the nodes in the network (OR 1.31, p < 0.001). We also found that individuals with higher education and age are more likely to hold a positive opinion about COVID-19 vaccination. With the given empirical data, our study cannot reveal whether this assortative mixing of opinions is due to social influence or social selection. However, it may nevertheless have implications for public health interventions, especially in countries that strive to reach higher uptake rates. Understanding opinions about vaccination can act as an early warning system for potential outbreaks, inform predictions about vaccination uptake, or help supply chain management for vaccine distribution.
Late spontaneous posterior capsule rupture with single-piece hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens dislocation
Authors: Lee Soomin , Lee Gahye , Park Choul Yong
Published: February 2024

In this study, we described and discussed the late onset spontaneous posterior capsule rupture with intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation years after uncomplicated cataract surgery and implantation of hydrophobic acrylic IOLs. Eight patients presented with spontaneous posterior capsule rupture and IOL dislocation 5–20 years after uncomplicated phacoemulsification and IOL (AcrySof, Alcon, US) implantation. None of the patients had undergone posterior capsulotomy in the past. Four of the patients admitted habitual eye rubbing. An intact and well-centered continuous curvilinear capsulotomy edge was observed in all cases. IOLs were dislocated or displaced behind the anterior capsulotomy with a significant decrease in vision. A large rupture with a curled edge of the broken posterior capsule was visible. Dislocated IOLs were removed, and a three-piece IOL was inserted in the sulcus in six cases and suture fixated to the sclera in two cases. Improved vision was achieved in all cases. Although the mechanism underlying this late complication is unclear, habitual eye rubbing or IOL design may play a role. Further investigation is needed to prevent this complication in the future.
Time dependent dihedral angle oscillations of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 reveal favored frequencies of dihedral angle rotations
Authors: Bastidas Oscar H. , Sevarac Zoran
Published: February 2024

The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is critical to viral infection of human host cells which ultimately results in COVID-19. In this study we analyzed the behavior of dihedral angles (phi and psi) of the wild-type spike protein over time from molecular dynamics and identified that their oscillations are dominated by a few discrete, relatively low frequencies in the 23–63 MHz range with 42.969 MHz being the most prevalent frequency sampled by the oscillations. We thus observed the spike protein to favor certain frequencies more than others. Gaps in the tally of all observed frequencies for low-abundance amino acids also suggests that the frequency components of dihedral angle oscillations may be a function of position in the primary structure since relatively more abundant amino acids lacked gaps. Lastly, certain residues identified in the literature as constituting the inside of a druggable pocket, as well as others identified as allosteric sites, are observed in our data to have distinctive time domain profiles. This motivated us to propose additional residues with similar time domain profiles, which may be of potential interest to the vaccine and drug design communities for further investigation. Thus these findings indicate that there is a particular frequency domain profile for the spike protein hidden within the time domain data and this information, perhaps with the suggested residues, might provide additional insight into therapeutic development strategies for COVID-19 and beyond.
The therapeutic effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in patients with severe to profound idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Choi Yeso , Han Sung Jun , Kim Sung Kyun , Hong Seok Min
Published: February 2024

The optimal treatment for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is unclear. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been suggested as a viable option for treatment of SSNHL as it improves vascular dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of HBOT by retrospectively reviewing the records of 2206 patients with SSNHL. 54 who had received HBOT were selected for the HBOT groups, while 59 age-matched controls who had not were selected for the control groups. The HBOT and control groups were divided into subgroups according to intratympanic steroid (ITS) use. Groups A–D had received oral steroids + HBOT, oral steroids only, oral steroids + ITS + HBOT, and oral steroids + ITS, respectively. Of the 113 SSNHL patients, 21 had diabetes mellitus (DM) (2, 0, 9, and 10 patients in Groups A–D, respectively). There was no notable difference in hearing improvement between patients receiving HBOT and those in the control group. However, among diabetic patients, those who underwent HBOT demonstrated a significant improvement in hearing when compared to the control group. The combination of HBOT and steroids could potentially be beneficial for treating severe to profound SSNHL patients with DM.
Association of UGT1A1 gene variants, expression levels, and enzyme concentrations with 2,3,7,8-TCDD exposure in individuals exposed to Agent Orange/Dioxin
Authors: Van Quang Ha , Vuong Nguyen Ba , Trang Bui Ngoc Linh , Toan Nguyen Linh , Van Tong Hoang
Published: February 2024

Among the congener of dioxin, 2,3,7,8-TCDD is the most toxic, having a serious long-term impact on the environment and human health. UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) plays a crucial role in the detoxification and excretion of endogenous and exogenous lipophilic compounds, primarily in the liver and gastrointestinal tract. This study aimed to investigate the association of UGT1A1 gene polymorphisms, expression levels, and enzyme concentration with Agent Orange/Dioxin exposure. The study included 100 individuals exposed to Agent Orange/Dioxin nearby Da Nang and Bien Hoa airports in Vietnam and 100 healthy controls. UGT1A1 SNP rs10929303, rs1042640 and rs8330 were determined by Sanger sequencing, mRNA expression was quantified by RT-qPCR and plasma UGT1A1 concentrations were measured by ELISA. The results showed that UGT1A1 polymorphisms at SNPs rs10929303, rs1042640 and rs8330 were associated with Agent Orange/Dioxin exposure (OR = 0.55, P = 0.018; OR = 0.55, P = 0.018 and OR = 0.57, P = 0.026, respectively). UGT1A1 mRNA expression levels and enzyme concentration were significantly elevated in individuals exposed to Agent Orange/Dioxin compared to controls (P < 0.0001). Benchmark dose (BMD) analyses showed that chronic exposure to 2,3,7,8-TCDD contamination affects the UGT1A1 mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, UGT1A1 polymorphisms affected gene expression and enzyme concentrations in individuals exposed to Agent Orange/Dioxin. In conclusion, UGT1A1 gene polymorphisms, UGT1A gene expression levels and UGT1A1 enzyme concentrations were associated with Agent Orange/Dioxin exposure. The metabolism of 2,3,7,8-TCDD may influence UGT1A gene expression and enzyme concentrations.
Vertical accretion trends project doughnut-like fragmentation of saltmarshes
Authors: Hein Christopher J. , Connell Jennifer E. , FitzGerald Duncan M. , Georgiou Ioannis Y. , Hughes Zoe J. , King Kendall
Published: February 2024

Coastal saltmarshes keep pace with sea-level rise through in-situ production of organic material and incorporation of allochthonous inorganic sediment. Here we report rates of vertical accretion of 16 new sediment cores collected proximal to platform edges within saltmarshes located behind four barrier islands along the southeast United States coast. All but two of these exceed the contemporaneous rate of relative sea-level rise, often by a factor of 1.5 or more. Comparison with 80 additional measurements compiled across the Georgia Bight reveals that marshes situated closer to inlets and large bays generally accrete faster than those adjacent to small creeks or within platform interiors. These results demonstrate a spatial dichotomy in the resilience of backbarrier saltmarshes: marsh interiors are near a tipping point, but allochthonous mineral sediment fluxes allow enhanced local resilience along well-exposed and platform-edge marshes. Together, this suggests that backbarrier marshes are trending towards rapid, doughnut-like fragmentation.
Tunable emission from H-type supramolecular polymers in optical nanocavities
Authors: Lavarda Giulia , Berghuis Anton M. , Joseph Kripa , van der Tol Joost J. B. , Murai Shunsuke , Gómez Rivas Jaime , Meijer E. W.
Published: February 2024

Tunable emission from H-type supramolecular polymers prepared by self-assembly of tetraphenylethylene-based monomers is achieved by harnessing the surface lattice resonances of dielectric TiO2 nanoparticles.
Experimental and theoretical study of Criegee intermediate (CH2OO) reactions with n-butyraldehyde and isobutyraldehyde: kinetics, implications and atmospheric fate
Authors: Debnath Amit , Rajakumar Balla
Published: February 2024

The reactions of the simplest Criegee intermediate (CH2OO) with n-butyraldehyde (nBD) and isobutyraldehyde (iBD) were studied at 253–318 K and (50 ± 2) torr, using Cavity Ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS).
Modeling carbon dioxide and methane adsorption on illite and calcite: enhancing the simplified local density model through crystal structure modifications
Authors: Wu Gang , Fu Xiaofei , Wang Lu , Wang Rui , Li Binhui , Pan Zhejun
Published: February 2024

The interaction potential near the (001) crystal surface of illite.
Flexible and fire-retardant silica/cellulose aerogel using bacterial cellulose nanofibrils as template material
Authors: Birdsong Björn K. , Wu Qiong , Hedenqvist Mikael S. , Capezza Antonio J. , Andersson Richard L. , Svagan Anna J. , Das Oisik , Mensah Rhoda Afriyie , Olsson Richard T.
Published: February 2024

Exploring the possibility of using various silsesquioxane precursors such as (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES), methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS), and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) to produce silica-bacterial cellulose nanofibre (bCNF) aerogel.
Synthesis of branched bottlebrushes by the combination of ATRP, Pd(ii)-initiated isocyanide polymerization, and ROMP
Authors: Chu Benfa , Zou Hui
Published: February 2024

Branched bottlebrushes comprising a main chain of polynorbornene and branched side chains of poly(tert-butyl acrylate) and poly(phenyl isocyanide) were successfully obtained via combining ATRP, Pd(ii)-initiated isocyanide polymerization, and ROMP.
Non-precious cobalt–bismuth binary oxide as a superior catalyst for the highly selective aerobic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid in aqueous solvent
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen Aicheng , Pan Weixing , Zhu Hu
Published: February 2024

We designed and synthesized a cheap CoBi binary oxide catalyst. Almost complete conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) was achieved on the as-prepared catalyst under mild conditions.
Effects of stirring rate on morphology of aqueous RAFT emulsion PISA-derived block copolymer nanoparticles
Authors: Kim Hyun Jin , Ishizuka Fumi , Li Jiang , Kuchel Rhiannon P. , Chatani Shunsuke , Niino Hiroshi , Zetterlund Per B.
Published: February 2024

The influence of stirring rate on nanoparticle morphology in aqueous RAFT emulsion PISA has been investigated.
Surface mannosylation of dispersion polymerisation derived nanoparticles by copper mediated click chemistry
Authors: Tomasino Daniela V. , Ahmad Ashfaq , Ahmad Tauseef , Salimbeigi Golestan , Dowling Jennifer , Lemoine Mark , Ferrando Ruth M. , Hibbitts Alan , Branningan Ruairí P. , Gibson Mathew I. , Lay Luigi , Heise Andreas
Published: February 2024

Spherical polymer particles with alkyne functionalities were obtained by polymerisation induced self-assembly using Cu(0) mediated radical polymerisation. Mannosylation by click reaction produced cyto-compatible lectin binding nanoparticles.
Electron-donating arene-substituted pentacenedione derivatives: a study of structural, electronic, and electrochemical properties
Authors: Younes Eyad A. , Hammad Yamen J. , Salami Fatemeh , Rasras Anas J. , Al-Qawasmeh Raed A. , Zhao Yuming
Published: February 2024

A new series of redox-active tetraryl-substituted pentacenedione derivatives, namely Ar4-PDs, was prepared through Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions between a bis(dibromomethane)pentacenedione and various arene boronic acids.
Bimetallic nanoparticle production using Cannabis sativa and Vitis vinifera waste extracts
Authors: Michailidu Jana , Miškovská Anna , Jarošová Irena , Čejková Alena , Mat’átková Olga
Published: February 2024

The utilization of waste materials for the synthesis of nanoparticles has gained significant attention due to its potential for waste valorization and contribution to the circular economy.
Exploring the potential of end-capping acceptor engineering on indolo[3,2-b]indole-based small molecules for efficient organic and perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zahid Waqar Ali , Ahmad Muhammad Fiaz , Akram Waqas , Iftikhar Rabia , Alsalhi Sarah A. , Abdelmohsen Shaimaa A. M. , Iqbal Javed
Published: February 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) materials, especially organic and perovskite solar cells are effective candidates for meeting the rising global energy demand.
Optimization and pathway study on destruction of the spent extraction solvent in supercritical water
Authors: Li Ye , Qin Qiang , Zhang Zhizhi , Wang Shuai
Published: February 2024

Sustainable management of spent extraction solvents (SES) is paramount in the nuclear industry.
Topological effect of an intramolecular split G-quadruplex on thioflavin T binding and fluorescence light-up
Authors: Lv Mengmeng , Ren Jiangtao , Wang Erkang
Published: February 2024

Hybridization-facilitated thioflavin T (ThT) binding to a G-quadruplex and fluorescence light-up were disclosed on a platform of an intramolecular split G-quadruplex (Intra-SG) and the susceptibility of the 3′ guanine-rich fragment of Intra-SG was validated.
External electric field treatment for improving the morphology and electrical performance of P(NDI2OD-T2)
Authors: Moon Yina , Kim Yunseul , Yang Dongseong , Han Nara , Lee Minwoo , Kim Younghyo , Jo Il-Young , Yoon Myung-Han , Kim Dong-Yu
Published: February 2024

External electric field (EEF) treatment is performed to induce enhanced backbone linearity and crystal enlargement in P(NDI2OD-T2) conjugated polymer films. Consequently, EEF treatment significantly improved morphology and electron mobility.
Microneedle-assisted percutaneous delivery of methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles enabling sustained anti-inflammatory effects in psoriasis therapy
Authors: Du Hongyao , Yang Jing , Li Mo , Xia Yuting , Li Yan , Zhu Jintao , Zhang Lianbin , Tao Juan
Published: February 2024

The MTX@HMSN/CS-loaded MN patch exhibited enhanced and sustained anti-inflammatory effects against psoriasis with a continuous release of MTX.
Amphiphilic acetylacetone-based carbon dots
Authors: Cherevkov Sergei A. , Stepanidenko Evgeniia A. , Miruschenko Mikhail D. , Zverkov Andrei M. , Mitroshin Alexander M. , Margaryan Igor V. , Spiridonov Igor G. , Danilov Denis V. , Koroleva Aleksandra V. , Zhizhin Evgeniy V. , Baidakova Marina V. , Sokolov Roman V. , Sandzhieva Maria A. , Ushakova Elena V. , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: February 2024

The use of acetylacetone in combination with benzoic acid and ethylenediamine led to amphiphilic carbon dots formation with bright blue emission, which allowed us to produce LEDs, luminescent inks, and films for solar concentrators.
Fluorescent photoswitches with improved emission efficiency based on aggregation-induced emission luminogens by eliminating the heavy-atom effect
Authors: Zhan Jiale , Yao Chuangye , Han Zhengdong , Wu Yuzhen , Feng Hui , Qian Zhaosheng
Published: February 2024

A molecular design strategy that significantly improves the solid-state fluorescence efficiency of AIE-active photoswitches has been proposed, in which the heavy atom effect of sulfur is mitigated by introducing a thiophene dioxide moiety.
Photoelectrochemical-driven nitrogen reduction to ammonia by a Vo-SnO2/TiO2 composite electrode
Authors: Ma Junbo , Fu Jiangjian , Sun Lan , Cheng Jun , Li Jian-Feng
Published: February 2024

A heterostructured Vo-SnO2/TiO2 electrode with high PEC nitrogen fixation activity and faradaic efficiency is constructed and the effect of Vo in SnO2 on the N2 adsorption and activation is analyzed.
Photodetectors integrating waveguides and semiconductor materials
Authors: Wang Xin-Xue , Zeng Guang , Yu Qiu-Jun , Shen Lei , Shi Cai-Yu , Lu Hong-Liang
Published: February 2024

Current advances in photodetectors integrating waveguide and semiconductor materials, with focus on waveguide materials, waveguide types, semiconductor materials, and integrated-waveguide photodetector types.
Diffusion‐UDA: Diffusion‐based unsupervised domain adaptation for submersible fault diagnosis
Authors: Zhao Penghui , Wang Xindi , Zhang Yi , Li Yang , Wang Hongjun , Yang Yang
Published: February 2024

Deep learning has demonstrated notable success in mechanical signal processing with a large amount labelled data. However, the systems of the Jiaolong deep‐sea submersible prone to malfunction are typically diverse, due to the high complexity of its structure and operational environment. Consequently, this diversity gives rise to variations in the types of sensor signals and their associated data distributions that require analysis. Unsupervised domain adaptation (UDA) uses transferable knowledge derived from the source domain and applies it to an unlabelled target domain in order to improve the reusability of pre‐existing models and data. Inspired by the diffusion models that have the robust capabilities to transform data distributions across a large gap, we propose a novel diffusion‐based unsupervised domain adaptation (diffusion‐UDA) model, which leverages contrastive learning to alleviate the challenges of cross‐domain analysis for fault diagnosis within different systems of the deep‐sea submersible. Experimental results show the proposed method achieves state‐of‐the‐art performance on various benchmarks.
A Conv‐GEMM reconfigurable accelerator with WS‐RS dataflow for high throughput processing
Authors: Wang Feihu , Zhang Chi , Deng Yongchao , Yang Xu , Yu Shuangming , Dou Runjiang , Wu Nanjian , Liu Liyuan
Published: February 2024

Convolution and matrix operations are both important computations in Deep Neural Networks (DNNs). However, the significant differences between convolution and matrix computation patterns have posed a challenge in efficiently supporting both convolution (Conv) and general matrix multiplication (GEMM) on hardware design. This paper proposes a Conv‐GEMM reconfigurable accelerator architecture for high throughput edge processing. A weight stationary‐row streaming (WS‐RS) dataflow scheme is proposed, which maximizes data reuse through hierarchical memory structures and flexible PE connections, and supports high throughput edge‐based deep learning algorithms. Based on the proposed dataflow, multi‐scale memory access network (MMAN), reconfigurable accumulator array (RAA), and configurable instruction set architecture (ISA) are designed to optimize computation throughput and energy efficiency. The accelerator is designed under 65 nm technology, achieves peak performance of 1.15 TOPS at 250 MHz, with an energy efficiency of 1.14 TOPS/W. The GEMM computation achieves 85.7% latency improvement and the Mobilenet‐V1 processing achieves a throughput of 529 fps under a 256 × 224 image size and an 87.15% (top‐5) accuracy on the ImageNet dataset.
Observations of the new meteor shower from comet 46P/Wirtanen
Authors: Vida D. , Scott J. M. , Egal A. , Vaubaillon J. , Ye Q.-Z. , Rollinson D. , Sato M. , Moser D. E.
Published: February 2024

Context. A new meteor shower λ-Sculptorids produced by the comet 46P/Wirtanen was forecast for December 12, 2023. The predicted activity was highly uncertain, but generally considered to be low. Observations in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania were solicited to help constrain the size distribution of meteoroids in the shower.

Aims. This work aims to characterize the new meteor shower, by comparing the observed and predicted radiants and orbits, and to provide a calibration for future predictions.

Methods. Global Meteor Network video cameras were used to observe the meteor shower. Multi-station observations were used to compute trajectories and orbits, while single-station observations were used to measure the flux profile.

Results. A total of 23 λ-Sculptorid orbits have been measured. The shower peaked at a zenithal hourly rate (ZHR) of 0.65−0.20+0.24 meteors per hour at λ⊙ = 259.988° ±0.042°. Due to the low in-atmosphere speed of 15 km s−1, the mean mass of observed meteoroids was 0.5 g (∼10 mm diameter), an order of magnitude higher than predicted. The dynamical simulations of the meteoroid stream can only produce such large meteoroids arriving at Earth in 2023 with correct radiants when a very low meteoroid density of ∼100 kg m−3 is assumed. However, this assumption cannot reproduce the activity profile. It may be reproduced by considering higher density meteoroids in a larger ecliptic plane-crossing time window (ΔT = 20 days) and trails ejected prior to 1908, but then the observed radiant structure is not reproduced.
Analysis of the effect of climatic variability and increasing water demand on the Saïss aquifer, Morocco
Authors: El Garouani Manal , Radoine Hassan , Lahrach Aberrahim , Jarar Oulidi Hassane , Chaabane Mohamed Salem
Published: February 2024

Climate variability has a significant impact on the water table of the Saïss plain, which relies heavily on groundwater for agricultural irrigation and drinking water supply. The study of the spatio-temporal evolution of the groundwater level requires a global and integrated approach that considers both natural processes and human activities. Satellite imagery has provided information on land use and land cover that influences groundwater recharge. The GIS has facilitated the integration of different datasets, allowing spatial analysis, mapping and identification of vulnerable areas to depletion. Geostatistical techniques are used to analyze collected data, identify trends and quantify the relationship between groundwater levels and various influencing factors. The results of this study have shown that the depth of the water table of the Saïss plain between 2000 and 2020 has generally decreased by several metres in the NW and the centre zone, but has improved by a few metres or remained constant in the other areas. This information is valuable for developing sustainable water management plans that take into account both environmental and societal needs.
Impacts of hinterland surface water on the coastline of Al Hoceima Bay (Central Rif, Morocco)
Authors: El Djiri Abdelkarim , Etebaai Issam , El Bourki Rajae , Taher Morad , El Moussaoui Said , El Talibi Hajar , Cherkaoui Dekkaki Hinde
Published: February 2024

The present work aims to assess the chemical and bacteriological quality of the two Ghiss-Nekôr tributaries of Al-Hoceima Bay. A set of field data collected, either from direct analysis or from satellite data, was used to conduct this study. We relied on GIS tools for data processing and analysis. The nutrient analysis indicates normal surface water quality, with nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations typical of less polluted waters. These nutrients originate from continental inputs due to runoff. Nitrates are the most common mineral nitrogen species, resulting from the leaching of nitrate-based fertilizers from agricultural and domestic sources. Bacterial analysis reveals water contamination by total coliforms (TC), Escherichia coli (EC), and intestinal enterococci (IE). Hinterland inputs from the two rivers are the primary source of liquid and solid pollutants in Al-Hoceima Bay. They are influenced by climatic and anthropogenic factors such as hydraulic development, agriculture and urbanization.
Using AquaCrop for Irrigation and water productivity assessment of Table grapes in arid region of Mexico
Authors: Er-Raki Salah , Bouras Elhoussaine , Rodriguez Julio Cesar , CruzBautista Fidencio , Watts Chriss , Lizarraga-Celaya Carlos , Chehbouni Abdelghani
Published: February 2024

The aim of this work is to use the AquaCrop model for irrigation and water productivity assessment of Table grapes in arid region of Mexico during 2005 and 2006 cropping seasons. The irrigation efficiency was investigated by comparing the irrigation scheduling design used by the farmer to the AquaCrop model recommendations. Data analysis showed that the farmer irrigates almost every day, which results in the water content in the root zone always exceeding the soil moisture at field capacity (FC). This generates substantial losses of water through deep percolation. By using the AquaCrop model, the optimization of irrigation water scheduling in order to avoid both water stress and deep percolation was about 547 mm and 510 mm, which it is about half of what was applied by the farmer (1006 mm and 930 mm) during 2005 and 2006, respectively. This large difference, lost through deep percolation, reduces the water productivity (WP) by about 45%.