bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic gene expression and environmental stressors trigger variable somite segmentation phenotypes
Authors: Keseroglu Kemal , Zinani Oriana Q. H. , Keskin Sevdenur , Seawall Hannah , Alpay Eslim E. , Özbudak Ertuğrul M.
Published: October 2023

Mutations of several genes cause incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity of phenotypes, which are usually attributed to modifier genes or gene-environment interactions. Here, we show stochastic gene expression underlies the variability of somite segmentation defects in embryos mutant for segmentation clock genes her1 or her7. Phenotypic strength is further augmented by low temperature and hypoxia. By performing live imaging of the segmentation clock reporters, we further show that groups of cells with higher oscillation amplitudes successfully form somites while those with lower amplitudes fail to do so. In unfavorable environments, the number of cycles with high amplitude oscillations and the number of successful segmentations proportionally decrease. These results suggest that individual oscillation cycles stochastically fail to pass a threshold amplitude, resulting in segmentation defects in mutants. Our quantitative methodology is adaptable to investigate variable phenotypes of mutant genes in different tissues.
Androgen receptor is a determinant of melanoma targeted drug resistance
Authors: Samarkina Anastasia , Youssef Markus Kirolos , Ostano Paola , Ghosh Soumitra , Ma Min , Tassone Beatrice , Proust Tatiana , Chiorino Giovanna , Levesque Mitchell P. , Goruppi Sandro , Dotto Gian Paolo
Published: October 2023

Melanoma provides a primary benchmark for targeted drug therapy. Most melanomas with BRAFV600 mutations regress in response to BRAF/MEK inhibitors (BRAFi/MEKi). However, nearly all relapse within the first two years, and there is a connection between BRAFi/MEKi-resistance and poor response to immune checkpoint therapy. We reported that androgen receptor (AR) activity is required for melanoma cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. We show here that AR expression is markedly increased in BRAFi-resistant melanoma cells, and in sensitive cells soon after BRAFi exposure. Increased AR expression is sufficient to render melanoma cells BRAFi-resistant, eliciting transcriptional changes of BRAFi-resistant subpopulations, including elevated EGFR and SERPINE1 expression, of likely clinical significance. Inhibition of AR expression or activity blunts changes in gene expression and suppresses proliferation and tumorigenesis of BRAFi-resistant melanoma cells, promoting clusters of CD8+ T cells infiltration and cancer cells killing. Our findings point to targeting AR as possible co-therapeutical approach in melanoma treatment.
FGFR2 is essential for salivary gland duct homeostasis and MAPK-dependent seromucous acinar cell differentiation
Authors: Aure Marit H. , Symonds Jennifer M. , Villapudua Carlos U. , Dodge Joshua T. , Werner Sabine , Knosp Wendy M. , Hoffman Matthew P.
Published: October 2023

Exocrine acinar cells in salivary glands (SG) are critical for oral health and loss of functional acinar cells is a major clinical challenge. Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) are essential for early development of multiple organs, including SG. However, the role of FGFR signaling in specific populations later in development and during acinar differentiation are unknown. Here, we use scRNAseq and conditional deletion of murine FGFRs in vivo to identify essential roles for FGFRs in craniofacial, early SG development and progenitor function during duct homeostasis. Importantly, we also discover that FGFR2 via MAPK signaling is critical for seromucous acinar differentiation and secretory gene expression, while FGFR1 is dispensable. We show that FGF7, expressed by myoepithelial cells (MEC), activates the FGFR2-dependent seromucous transcriptional program. Here, we propose a model where MEC-derived FGF7 drives seromucous acinar differentiation, providing a rationale for targeting FGFR2 signaling in regenerative therapies to restore acinar function.
Finite-temperature critical behaviors in 2D long-range quantum Heisenberg model
Authors: Zhao Jiarui , Song Menghan , Qi Yang , Rong Junchen , Meng Zi Yang
Published: October 2023

The Mermin-Wagner theorem states that spontaneous continuous symmetry breaking is prohibited in systems with short-range interactions at spatial dimensionD ≤ 2. For long-range interactions with a power-law form (1/rα), the theorem further forbids ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic order at finite temperature whenα ≥ 2D. However, the situation forα ∈ (2, 4) atD = 2 is not covered by the theorem. To address this, we conduct large-scale quantum Monte Carlo simulations and field theoretical analysis. Our findings show spontaneous breaking ofSU(2) symmetry in the ferromagnetic Heisenberg model with 1/rα-form long-range interactions atD = 2. We determine critical exponents through finite-size analysis forα < 3 (above the upper critical dimension with Gaussian fixed point) and 3 ≤ α < 4 (below the upper critical dimension with non-Gaussian fixed point). These results reveal new critical behaviors in 2D long-range Heisenberg models, encouraging further experimental studies of quantum materials with long-range interactions beyond the Mermin-Wagner theorem’s scope.
Spatially localised expression of the glutamate decarboxylase gadB in Escherichia coli O157:H7 microcolonies in hydrogel matrices
Authors: Saint Martin Cédric , Caccia Nelly , Darsonval Maud , Gregoire Marina , Combeau Arthur , Jubelin Grégory , Dubois-Brissonnet Florence , Leroy Sabine , Briandet Romain , Desvaux Mickaël
Published: October 2023

Functional diversity within isogenic spatially organised bacterial populations has been shown to trigger emergent community properties such as stress tolerance. Considering gadB gene encoding a key glutamate decarboxylase involved in E. coli tolerance to acidic conditions, we investigated its expression in hydrogels mimicking the texture of some structured food matrices (such as minced meat or soft cheese). Taking advantage of confocal laser scanning microscopy combined with a genetically-engineered dual fluorescent reporter system, it was possible to visualise the spatial patterns of bacterial gene expression from in-gel microcolonies. In E. coli O157:H7 microcolonies, gadB showed radically different expression patterns between neutral (pH 7) or acidic (pH 5) hydrogels. Differential spatial expression was determined in acidic hydrogels with a strong expression of gadB at the microcolony periphery. Strikingly, very similar spatial patterns of gadB expression were further observed for E. coli O157:H7 grown in the presence of L. lactis. Considering the ingestion of contaminated foodstuff, survival of E. coli O157:H7 to acidic stomachal stress (pH 2) was significantly increased for bacterial cells grown in microcolonies in acidic hydrogels compared to planktonic cells. These findings have significant implications for risk assessment and public health as they highlight inherent differences in bacterial physiology and virulence between liquid and structured food products. The contrasting characteristics observed underscore the need to consider the distinct challenges posed by these food types, thereby emphasising the importance of tailored risk mitigation strategies.
Assessment of Surgical Tasks Using Neuroimaging Dataset (ASTaUND)
Authors: Kamat Anil , Eastmond Condell , Gao Yuanyuan , Nemani Arun , Yanik Erim , Cavuoto Lora , Hackett Matthew , Norfleet Jack , Schwaitzberg Steven , De Suvranu , Intes Xavier
Published: October 2023

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a neuroimaging tool for studying brain activity in mobile subjects. Open-access fNIRS datasets are limited to simple and/or motion-restricted tasks. Here, we report a fNIRS dataset acquired on mobile subjects performing Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) tasks in a laboratory environment. Demonstrating competency in the FLS tasks is a prerequisite for board certification in general surgery in the United States. The ASTaUND data set was acquired over four different studies. We provide the relevant information about the hardware, FLS task execution protocols, and subject demographics to facilitate the use of this open-access data set. We also provide the concurrent FLS scores, a quantitative metric for surgical skill assessment developed by the FLS committee. This data set is expected to support the growing field of assessing surgical skills via neuroimaging data and provide an example of data processing pipeline for use in realistic, non-restrictive environments.
Dynamic changes in the transcriptome of tRNA-derived small RNAs related with fat metabolism
Authors: Liao Tianci , Gan Mailin , Lei Yuhang , Wang Yan , Chen Lei , Shen Linyuan , Zhu Li
Published: October 2023

The prevalence of obesity and overweight is steadily rising, posing a significant global challenge for humanity. The fundamental cause of obesity and overweight lies in the abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue. While numerous regulatory factors related to fat deposition have been identified in previous studies, a considerable number of regulatory mechanisms remain unknown. tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel class of non-coding RNAs, have emerged as significant regulators in various biological processes. In this study, we obtained small RNA sequencing data from subcutaneous white adipose tissue and omental white adipose tissue of lean and obese pigs. In addition, we similarly obtained tsRNAs profiles from scapular brown adipose tissue (BAT), inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) and epigonadal white adipose tissue (eWAT) of normal mice. Finally, we successfully identified a large number of expressed tsRNAs in each tissue type and identified tsRNAs conserved in different adipose tissues of pigs and mice. These datasets will be a valuable resource for elucidating the epigenetic mechanisms of fat deposition.
Zaxinone mimics (MiZax) efficiently promote growth and production of potato and strawberry plants under desert climate conditions
Authors: Wang Jian You , Jamil Muhammad , AlOtaibi Turki S. , Abdelaziz Mohamed E. , Ota Tsuyoshi , Ibrahim Omer H. , Berqdar Lamis , Asami Tadao , Ahmed Mousa Magdi Ali , Al-Babili Salim
Published: October 2023

Climate changes and the rapid expanding human population have become critical concerns for global food security. One of the promising solutions is the employment of plant growth regulators (PGRs) for increasing crop yield and overcoming adverse growth conditions, such as desert climate. Recently, the apocarotenoid zaxinone and its two mimics (MiZax3 and MiZax5) have shown a promising growth-promoting activity in cereals and vegetable crops under greenhouse and field conditions. Herein, we further investigated the effect of MiZax3 and MiZax5, at different concentrations (5 and 10 µM in 2021; 2.5 and 5 µM in 2022), on the growth and yield of the two valuable vegetable crops, potato and strawberry, in the Kingdom of Saudi of Arabia. Application of both MiZax significantly increased plant agronomic traits, yield components and total yield, in five independent field trials from 2021 to 2022. Remarkably, the amount of applied MiZax was far less than humic acid, a widely applied commercial compound used here for comparison. Hence, our results indicate that MiZax are very promising PGRs that can be applied to promote the growth and yield of vegetable crops even under desert conditions and at relatively low concentrations.
A nomogram for predicting severe myelosuppression in small cell lung cancer patients following the first-line chemotherapy
Authors: Li Yaoyuan , Bao Yanju , Zheng Honggang , Qin Yinggang , Hua Baojin
Published: October 2023

This study aimed at establishing and validating a nomogram to predict the probability of severe myelosuppression in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients following the first-line chemotherapy. A total of 179 SCLC cases were screened as the training group and another 124 patients were used for the validation group. Predictors were determined by the smallest Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) in multivariate logistic regression analysis, leading to a new nomogram. The nomogram was validated in both training and validation groups and the predicting value was evaluated by area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Age and tumor staging were extracted as predictors to establish a nomogram, which displayed the AUC values as 0.725 and 0.727 in the training and validation groups, respectively. This nomogram exhibited acceptable calibration curves in the two groups and its prediction added more net benefits than the treat-all scheme and treat-none scheme if the range of threshold probability in the DCA was between 15 and 60% in the training and validation groups. Therefore, the nomogram objectively and accurately predict the occurrence of severe myelosuppression in SCLC patients following the first-line chemotherapy.
A multivariate twin study of the genetic association between present moment attention and subjective wellbeing
Authors: Brown Kirk Warren , Aliev Fazil , Eley Thalia C. , Dick Danielle M. , Sawyers Chelsea
Published: October 2023

Considerable evidence supports the role of present-moment attention, a central feature of mindfulness, in subjective wellbeing maintenance and enhancement. Yet it is not clear why such a relation exists. This study examined the genetic and environmental contributions of present-moment attention to subjective wellbeing. Consistent with the “generalist genes hypothesis” and prior evidence, we hypothesized that presence and subjective wellbeing would show a substantial genetic correlation and smaller environmental correlation. Using a large epidemiological sample of healthy 16-year-old twins in the United Kingdom (N = 1136 monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs), genetic overlap was found between presence and the cognitive component of subjective wellbeing (life satisfaction), and to a lesser extent, the affective component of subjective wellbeing (operationalized as happiness). The non-shared environmental overlap between these constructs was substantial. This study provides the first evidence known to us showing that present-centered attention, a primary component of mindfulness, has both genetic and environmental overlap with subjective wellbeing. The findings have implications for understanding mechanisms by which presence is associated with positive emotions and life satisfaction, and suggest, pending additional research, that mindfulness-based interventions to enhance wellbeing may be best suited to those with a genetic propensity toward mindful presence.
Electrocardiographic changes during sustained normobaric hypoxia in patients after myocardial infarction
Authors: Kramer Tilmann , Hoenemann Jan-Niklas , Weis Henning , Hoffmann Fabian , Rosenkranz Stephan , Baldus Stephan , Hellmich Martin , Levine Benjamin D. , Jordan Jens , Tank Jens , Limper Ulrich
Published: October 2023

The safety of prolonged high-altitude stays and exercise for physically fit post-myocardial infarction (MI) patients is unclear. Myocardial tissue hypoxia and pulmonary hypertension can affect cardiac function and electrophysiology, possibly contributing to arrhythmias. We included four non-professional male athletes, clinically stable after left ventricular MI (three with ST-segment elevation MI and one with non-ST-segment elevation MI) treated with drug-eluting stents for single-vessel coronary artery disease. Oxygen levels were reduced to a minimum of 11.8%, then restored to 20.9%. We conducted electrocardiography (ECG), ergometry, and echocardiography assessments in normoxic and hypoxic conditions. With an average age of 57.8 ± 3.3 years and MI history 37 to 104 months prior, participants experienced a significant increase in QTc intervals during hypoxia using Bazett’s (from 402 ± 13 to 417 ± 25 ms), Fridericia’s (from 409 ± 12 to 419 ± 19 ms), and Holzmann's formulas (from 103 ± 4 to 107 ± 6%) compared to normoxia. This effect partially reversed during recovery. Echocardiographic signs of pulmonary hypertension during normobaric hypoxia correlated significantly with altered QTc intervals (p < 0.001). Despite good health and complete revascularization following MI, susceptibility to hypoxia-induced QTc prolongation and ventricular ectopic beats persists, especially during physical activity. MI survivors planning high-altitude activities should consult cardiovascular specialists with high-altitude medicine expertise.
Effects of renin–angiotensin inhibitors on renal function and the clinical course in patients with decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Tergast Tammo L. , Griemsmann Marie , Wedemeyer Heiner , Cornberg Markus , Maasoumy Benjamin
Published: October 2023

Patients with decompensated cirrhosis are at risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI). Studies have suggested that inhibition of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) has certain nephro- and hepatoprotective effects in patients with compensated liver disease. This study aimed to investigate the clinical impact of RAS-Inhibitors in individuals with decompensated liver cirrhosis. Overall, 1181 consecutive hospitalized patients with ascites that underwent paracentesis were considered for this retrospective study. In total, 667 patients with decompensated cirrhosis fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were finally analyzed. RAS-Inhibitor intake was documented in 41 patients (7%). First, 28-day incidences of AKI and grade III AKI of all patients with RAS-Inhibitors were compared to those without intake. Afterwards, propensity score matching was conducted in a 3:1 manner. Here, incidence of further renal endpoints such as need of hemodialysis were analyzed in detail. In the unmatched setting, intake of RAS-Inhibitors was not associated with an increased 28 day-incidence of AKI (P = 0.76) or LTx-free survival (P = 0.60). However, 28 day-incidence of grade III AKI was significantly lower in patients with RAS-Inhibitor intake (P < 0.001). In the matched setting, 28 day-incidence of AKI did not differ (P = 0.81), while grade III AKI was significantly less frequent in the RAS-Inhibitor group (P < 0.001). Need for hemodialysis was also significantly lower in patients with RAS-Inhibitors (P = 0.03) and LTx-free survival was comparable between both groups (P = 0.52). Thus, this study suggests that intake of RAS-Inhibitors is associated with decreased incidences of grade III AKI and need of hemodialysis in patients with decompensated liver disease.
Crustal structure and seismic anisotropy of rift basins in Somaliland
Authors: Ali Mohammed Y. , Ismaiel Mohammad , Yusuf Ibrahim M. , Kaviani Ayoub
Published: October 2023

Rift margins provide insights into the processes governing the rupture of the continental lithosphere and the subsequence formation of sedimentary basins. The Proterozoic basement underlying Somaliland has been affected by multiple rifting; however, the crustal structure of these rifted basins remains unknown. This study utilized teleseismic receiver function analysis, Bayesian inversion, common conversion point imaging and 2D forward gravity modelling to examine the crust and upper mantle of Somaliland. The results indicate 36.8–38.2 km of crust in southern Somaliland, while the central and northern regions feature thinned crust (~ 21 km) with 5–6 km thick sediments. The joint analysis of radial and transverse components of receiver functions and shear wave splitting revealed fast axis directions trending to 50–56° in the upper mantle, indicating that azimuthal anisotropy is oriented in the regional Africa-Arabia plate motion. Such orientation may have resulted from lattice preferred orientation of olivine from the asthenospheric flow. Additionally, the fast polarization of the crust in central Somaliland is oriented at − 15°, indicating fossil deformation in the thinned crust related to the NW–SE trending Late Jurassic rift event. Further, the fast polarization for stations near the Gulf of Aden is oriented at 75–80°, suggesting crustal deformation associated with the Oligocene rift event. The crustal anisotropy at southern Somaliland revealed fast polarization oriented at − 85°, indicating a preserved far-field response of the WNW-ESE trending Late Cretaceous rift event. Overall, the study provides for the first-time insight into the rift-related extensional strain fabric in the crust and upper mantle anisotropy induced by asthenospheric flow in Somaliland.
Improved prediction of radiation-induced hypothyroidism in nasopharyngeal carcinoma using pre-treatment CT radiomics
Authors: Ritlumlert Napat , Wongwattananard Siriporn , Prayongrat Anussara , Oonsiri Sornjarod , Kitpanit Sarin , Kannarunimit Danita , Chakkabat Chakkapong , Lertbutsayanukul Chawalit , Sriswasdi Sira , Rakvongthai Yothin
Published: October 2023

When planning radiation therapy, late effects due to the treatment should be considered. One of the most common complications of head and neck radiation therapy is hypothyroidism. Although clinical and dosimetric data are routinely used to assess the risk of hypothyroidism after radiation, the outcome is still unsatisfactory. Medical imaging can provide additional information that improves the prediction of hypothyroidism. In this study, pre-treatment computed tomography (CT) radiomics features of the thyroid gland were combined with clinical and dosimetric data from 220 participants to predict the occurrence of hypothyroidism within 2 years after radiation therapy. The findings demonstrated that the addition of CT radiomics consistently and significantly improves upon conventional model, achieving the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) of 0.81 ± 0.06 with a random forest model. Hence, pre-treatment thyroid CT imaging provides useful information that have the potential to improve the ability to predict hypothyroidism after nasopharyngeal radiation therapy.
Association of rs2073618 polymorphism and osteoprotegerin levels with hypertension and cardiovascular risks in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sailaja A. Naga , Nanda Nivedita , Suryanarayana B. S. , Pal G. K.
Published: October 2023

There are reports of link of osteoprotegerin (OPG) gene polymorphism to type-2 diabetes (T2D) and hypertension (HTN). The objective of the study was to assess the allele frequency of OPG (rs2073618) gene polymorphism and its association with heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure variability profile as CVD risks in diabetes mellitus patients with hypertension undergoing treatment. T2D patients on treatment without hypertension (n = 172), with hypertension (n = 177) and 191 healthy volunteers were recruited for the study. Their blood pressure variability including baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), heart rate variability (HRV), OPG, insulin, lipid profile, receptor-activator for NFkB (RANK), receptor-activator for NFkB-Ligand (RANKL), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were estimated. Allele frequency of OPG (rs2073618) gene polymorphism was assessed from the DNA samples. BRS and HRV indices were decreased, and RANKL/OPG and TNF-α were increased in T2D and T2D + HTN groups, respectively compared to healthy control group. The reduction in BRS was contributed by increased inflammation and reduced SDNN of HRV in GG genotype in T2D + HTN. In GG + GC subgroup, it was additionally contributed by rise in RANKL/OPG level (β − 0.219;p0.008). Presence of mutant GG genotype contributed to the risk of hypertension among T2D patients (OR 3.004) as well as in general population (OR 2.79). It was concluded that CV risks are more in T2D patients with HTN expressing OPG rs2073618 gene polymorphism.
Lumped-parameter model as a non-invasive tool to assess coronary blood flow in AAOCA patients
Authors: Ceserani Valentina , Lo Rito Mauro , Agnifili Mauro Luca , Pascaner Ariel F. , Rosato Antonio , Anglese Serena , Deamici Miriam , Negri Jessica , Corrado Chiara , Bedogni Francesco , Secchi Francesco , Lombardi Massimo , Auricchio Ferdinando , Frigiola Alessandro , Conti Michele
Published: October 2023

Anomalous aortic origin of the coronary artery (AAOCA) is a rare disease associated with sudden cardiac death, usually related to physical effort in young people. Clinical routine tests fail to assess the ischemic risk, calling for novel diagnostic approaches. To this aim, some recent studies propose to assess the coronary blood flow (CBF) in AAOCA by computational simulations but they are limited by the use of data from literature retrieved from normal subjects. To overcome this limitation and obtain a reliable assessment of CBF, we developed a fully patient-specific lumped parameter model based on clinical imaging and in-vivo data retrieved during invasive coronary functional assessment of subjects with AAOCA. In such a way, we can estimate the CBF replicating the two hemodynamic conditions in-vivo analyzed. The model can mimic the effective coronary behavior with high accuracy and could be a valuable tool to quantify CBF in AAOCA. It represents the first step required to move toward a future clinical application with the aim of improving patient care. The study was registered at Clinicaltrial.gov with (ID: NCT05159791, date 2021-12-16).
Compliance to iron folic acid supplementation and its associated factors among pregnant women attending Antenatal clinic in Wondo district: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mengistu Taye , Lencha Bikila , Mekonnen Ashenafi , Degno Sisay , Yohannis Daniel , Beressa Girma
Published: October 2023

Pregnant women are at high risk for iron deficiency anemia due to increased nutrient requirements during pregnancy. Despite high coverage of iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS), low compliance is reported. The study aimed to assess compliance with IFAS and its associated factors among antenatal care (ANC) attendees in Wondo District, Southern Ethiopia. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 pregnant women. Pregnant women were selected through systematic random sampling. Pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect data through face to face interview. Data were entered into Epi-info and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences for analysis. The variables with p-value < 0.25 in the bivariable analysis were entered into the multivariable logistic regression model. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results were reported as crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. The prevalence of compliance to IFAS was (177, 44.3%). Factors significantly associated with compliance to IFAS were maternal age ≥ 25 years [AOR 2.27, 95% CI (1.21, 4.28)], maternal education [AOR 2.62, 95% CI (1.43, 4. 79)], husband's education [AOR 3.60, 95% CI (2.07, 6.25)], knowledge of anemia [AOR 4.40, 95% CI (2.65, 7.30)], and knowledge of IFA [AOR 2.21, 95% CI (1.40, 3.50)]. This study showed that compliance to IFAS was low. Maternal age, maternal education, husband's education, knowledge about anemia and iron folic acid was found to be significantly associated with adherence to IFAS. Emphasis should be placed on young, uneducated mothers and their husbands.
A green hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent for extraction of phenol from aqueous phase
Authors: Saien Javad , Bahiraei Mansoureh , Jafari Farnaz
Published: October 2023

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs), have been recognized as effective materials for the extraction of different compounds. In this study, the performance of a novel hydrophobic DES was evaluated for the extraction of phenol from aqueous solutions. Octanoic and dodecanoic fatty acid precursors with a definite molar ratio of 3:1, respectively, were used for the DES having a low melting point of 8.3 °C. The purity and stability of the product were confirmed via characterizing by FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR methods. The liquid–liquid equilibrium of the water + phenol + DES ternary system at different temperatures of 293.2, 298.2 and 308.2 K was accordingly studied through cloud point titration method and refractive index measurement. Interestingly, the important parameters of the solute distribution coefficient and the separation factor were, respectively, within the high levels of (6.8321–9.7787) and (895.76–2770.17), indicating the amazing capability of the DES. Reasonably, both of these parameters decreased with temperature. The NRTL and UNIQUAC thermodynamic models were employed to reproduce the obtained tie-lines and to determine the interaction parameters at each temperature. The low level root mean square deviations for the mentioned models were, respectively, within (0.0014–0.0027) and (0.0045–0.0063); confirming satisfactorily agreement with the experimental data.
Characterization and properties of manganese oxide film coated clinoptilolite as filter material in fixed-bed columns for removal of Mn(II) from aqueous solution
Authors: Jin Xing , Fu Jinxiang , Yu Pengfei , Luo Di
Published: October 2023

A new filter material, manganese oxide film coated clinoptilolite (MOFCC), was characterized and introduced to explore the effect in treating high concentration of manganese (1.71–2.12 mg L−1) from aqueous solution in fixed-bed column. Adsorption behavior of Mn(II) can be approximately described with the Langmuir isotherm. During the continuous 30 days filtration experiment, the removal rate of Mn(II) has maintained to be above 95.51%, the accumulated removal amount (806.42 mg) is much higher than the theoretical adsorption capacity (89.71 mg), which indicated that the removal of manganese by MOFCC includes both adsorption and auto-catalytic oxidation process, and it does not require a start-up period. SEM, EDS, XPS, XRD, ZETA potential and BET analyses were used to observe the surface properties of MOFCC. The manganese oxide film of MOFCC exhibits in clusters, apparently on occupied surface, the main component of the manganese oxide film is (Na0.7Ca0.3)Mn7O14·2.8H2O, the specific surface area of MOFCC is 38.76 m2 g−1, and the pore size is concentrated in the range of 3–40 nm, within the mesoporous range mesopores. pHpzc (point of zero charge) value is about 2.36. The characteristics of MOFCC make it an excellent manganese removal filter material for water treatment plant. Therefore, there is a long-term practical significance to develop new system for deep removal of manganese based on MOFCC.
The effect of pupil size on the measurement of corneal birefringence properties: preliminary study
Authors: Sobczak Marcelina , Asejczyk Magdalena , Wilczyński Maciej
Published: October 2023

We used a partial Mueller matrix polarimeter to measure the corneal anisotropic properties at three pupil sizes (dilated, natural, and constricted). The geometrical parameters of first order isochromes were described by quadrilaterals. These parameters are statistically significantly different between the three pupil sizes. The pupillary size changes do not influence the azimuth angle distribution α. The retardation R and birefringence distributions show asymmetry in the nasal–temporal cross-section. There are differences between pupil sizes for both nasal and temporal parts of the cornea for these distributions. Iridial light scattering and diffraction might be the reason for these differences.
miR-199a and miR-199b facilitate diffuse gastric cancer progression by targeting Frizzled-6
Authors: Hong Soon Auck , Lee Sieun , Park Jihye , Hong Mineui , Yoon Jung-Sook , Lee Heejin , Lee Ji Hyun , Kim Seoree , Won Hye Sung , Kang Keunsoo , Ko Yoon Ho , Ahn Young-Ho
Published: October 2023

Pathological markers that can monitor the progression of gastric cancer (GC) may facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of patients with diffuse GC (DGC). To identify microRNAs (miRNAs) that can differentiate between early and advanced DGC in the gastric mucosa, miRNA expression profiling was performed using the NanoString nCounter method in human DGC tumors. Ectopic expression of miR-199a and miR-199b (miR-199a/b) in SNU601 human GC cells accelerated the growth rate, viability, and motility of cancer cells and increased the tumor volume and weight in a mouse xenograft model. To study their clinicopathological roles in patients with GC, miR-199a/b levels were measured in human GC tumor samples using in situ hybridization. High miR-199a/b expression level was associated with enhanced lymphovascular invasion, advanced T stage, and lymph-node metastasis. Using the 3′-untranslated region (UTR) luciferase assay, Frizzled-6 (FZD6) was confirmed to be a direct target of miR-199a/b in GC cells. siRNA-mediated depletion of FZD6 enhanced the motility of SNU601 cells, and addback of FZD6 restored cancer cell motility stimulated by miR-199a/b. In conclusion, miR-199a/b promotes DGC progression by targeting FZD6, implying that miR-199a/b can be used as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for the disease.
Antimicrobial Fe2O3-CuO-P2O5 glasses
Authors: Mitchell Alexandra L. , Lee Sung Hoon , McEnroe David J. , Null Eric L. , Sternquist Daniel A. , Hufziger Kathryn A. , Rice Brian J. , Scrimshire Alex , Bingham Paul A. , Gross Timothy M.
Published: October 2023

Glasses with high antimicrobial efficacy were developed in the Fe2O3-CuO-P2O5 ternary system to mitigate fomite-mediated transmission of infectious diseases in high-risk settings such as hospitals, daycares, and nursing homes. Binary CuO-P2O5 glasses were not durable enough for use as high touch point articles, so Fe2O3 was added to the compositions to increase the chemical durability. The amount of Cu leachate decreased by at least 3 orders of magnitude when Fe2O3 was increased from 0 to 13.1 mol%. At the highest Fe2O3 contents and corresponding highest durability, the glass was no longer able to pass a test of antimicrobial efficacy with < 3 log kill compared to > 5 log kill for all other compositions. Ab-initio molecular dynamics simulations showed increasing bridging oxygen species at the expense of non-bridging oxygen species with the increase in Fe2O3 content, showing that the glasses exhibited increased chemical durability because they were more interconnected and structurally bound. Experimental results with glasses at fixed CuO and decreasing Fe2O3 confirmed that Fe2O3 content (not CuO) controlled the Cu release rate and, thus, the antimicrobial efficacy of the glasses. The significance of the oxidation state of the leached Cu was overwhelmed by the importance of the amount of Cu leachate.
The self-assembly of l-histidine might be the cause of histidinemia
Authors: Ajikumar Ajitha , Premkumar Anakha Kandara Nikarthil , Narayanan Sunilkumar Puthenpurackal
Published: October 2023

l-Histidine is an essential amino acid with unique biochemical and physiological properties. Histidinemia is a disease condition caused by the elevated level of l-histidine in our blood. Mutations in the histidase, an enzyme for the breakdown of histidine, is the cause of the rise in histidine concentration. To our knowledge, no research has been done on why a high concentration of histidine causes histidinemia. In this study, we provide a potential explanation why the elevated levels of histidine in the human body causes histidinemia. In this study we have found that l-histidine self-assembled in water to form nano sheet structures at physiological pH and temperature, using 1D 1H NMR spectroscopy, diffusion ordered spectroscopy (DOSY) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques. The kinetics of self-assembly has been studied using real time NMR spectroscopy. We observed that both the aromatic ring and aliphatic part are equally contributing to the self-assembly of l-histidine. The symptoms of histidinemia, neurological deficits and speech delays, are similar to that of the neurodegenerative diseases caused by the self-assembly of peptides and proteins. We speculate that the self-assembly of l-histidine might be the cause of histidinemia.
CEP20 promotes invasion and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer cells by depolymerizing microtubules
Authors: Feng Sijie , Yuan Shuai , Hou Baohua , Liu Zhiqiang , Xu Yanjun , Hao Shuangying , Lu Yunkun
Published: October 2023

Worldwide, Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death and poses a direct health threat, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type. In this study, we demonstrated that centrosomal protein 20 (CEP20) is upregulated in NSCLC tissues and associated with cancer invasion metastasis. Notably, CEP20 depletion inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, and microtubule polymerization. Mechanistically, we discovered that CEP20 is critical in the development of NSCLC by regulating microtubule dynamics and cell adhesion-related signaling pathways. Furthermore, the knockdown or overexpression of CEP20 affects microtubule polymerization in A549 cell lines. Our research provides a promising therapeutic target for the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, as well as a theoretical and experimental basis for clinical application.
Investigation of LGALS2 expression in the TCGA database reveals its clinical relevance in breast cancer immunotherapy and drug resistance
Authors: He Song , Ji Zhonghao , Zhang Qing , Zhang Xiwen , Chen Jian , Hu Jinping , Wang Ruiqing , Ding Yu
Published: October 2023

Breast cancer (BRCA) is known as the leading cause of death in women worldwide and has a poor prognosis. Traditional therapeutic strategies such as surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy can cause adverse reactions such as drug resistance. Immunotherapy, a new treatment approach with fewer side effects and stronger universality, can prolong the survival of BRCA patients and even achieve clinical cure. However, due to population heterogeneity and other reasons, there are still certain factors that limit the efficacy of immunotherapy. Therefore, the importance of finding new tumor immune biomarker cannot be emphasized enough. Studies have reported that LGALS2 was closely related to immunotherapy efficacy, however, it is unclear whether it can act as an immune checkpoint for BRCA immunotherapy. In the current study, changes in LGALS2 expression were analyzed in public datasets such as TCGA-BRCA. We found that LGALS2 expression was associated with immune infiltration, drug resistance and other characteristics of BRCA. Moreover, high LGALS2 expression was closely related to immunotherapy response, and was associated with methylation modifications and clinical resistance for the first time. These findings may help to elucidate the role of LGALS2 in BRCA for the development and clinical application of future immunotherapy strategies against BRCA.
Effect of pachymaran on oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by formaldehyde
Authors: Zhang Zhijun , Yang Yuan , Hu Changjun , Zhang Zaiqi
Published: October 2023

To further explore the pharmacological effect of pachymaran, this article studied the inhibition of pachymaran on oxidative stress and genetic damage induced by formaldehyde. 40 adult Kunming male mice were randomly divided into four groups with different interventions. One week later, the contents of serum SOD, GR, MDA, DNA–protein crosslink (DPC), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHDG) and DNA adduct were determined by ELISA. The results showed that there were statistically significant differences in the contents of SOD, GR and MDA among the four groups (P < 0.01). The activity of SOD and GR increased along with the increase of pachymaran dosage (SOD: rs = 0.912, P < 0.01; GR: rs = 0.857, P < 0.01), while the content of MDA showing a significant negative correlation (rs = − 0.893, P < 0.01). There were statistically significant differences in the levels of DPC, 8-OHDG and DNA adduct among the four groups (DPC and DNA adduct: P < 0.01, 8-OHDG: P < 0.05), the concentration decreased along with the increase of pachymaran dosage (DPC: rs = − 0.855, P < 0.01; 8-OHDG:rs = − 0.412, P < 0.05, DNA adduct: γs = − 0.869, P < 0.01). It can be inferred that pachymaran can inhibit oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by formaldehyde with the dose–effect relationship.
Study on the influence of reverse faulting on deformation of foundation pit retaining piles
Authors: Niu Yungang , Wang Qiongyi , Ma Fenghai
Published: October 2023

The mechanical properties of soil in fault-fracture zone areas are diverse and complex. Deep excavation projects often encounter adverse geological conditions such as reverse faulting, which can lead to surface subsidence and collapses, posing significant challenges to excavation safety. Currently, there is limited research in the field of deep excavation engineering that analyzes the influence of reverse faulting on the deformation of retaining piles, and the existing research methods are not systematic enough. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the characteristics of how reverse faulting affects the deformation of retaining piles in deep excavation projects. Various research methods were employed, including numerical simulation, on-site monitoring, and orthogonal experiments, using a deep excavation project in Shenzhen as a case study. The results of the study indicate that reverse faulting exacerbates the deformation of retaining piles, causing the trend of increased deformation to shift upward. The upper part of the pile is significantly more affected than the lower part, and the overall deformation of the pile exhibits an approximate spoon-shaped curve distribution, with the maximum deformation occurring in the upper-middle section of the excavation. Under the influence of reverse faulting, the deformation of retaining piles is positively correlated with fault slip distance and fault dip angle, while it is negatively correlated with fault position. The growth rate of the maximum deformation of retaining piles, denoted as r(ΔZmax/Δ), increases approximately logarithmically with increasing fault slip distance and exponentially with increasing fault dip angle, but decreases approximately logarithmically with increasing distance from the fault to the excavation. An analysis of the sensitivity of fault slip distance, fault dip angle, and fault position to the maximum deformation of retaining piles was conducted. It was determined that the fault dip angle has the highest sensitivity, followed by fault slip distance, while fault position has the lowest sensitivity. Based on the fitting of 64 sets of orthogonal experimental data, a good linear relationship was established between the maximum deformation of retaining piles (Uhm) and the indicator η($$\theta \pi T/180^{^\circ } S$$

θ
π
T
/

180

∘

S

), leading to the development of a predictive model for the maximum deformation of retaining piles under the influence of reverse faulting. These research findings provide valuable insights and references for similar engineering projects.
Library of single-etch silicon nitride grating couplers for low-loss and fabrication-robust fiber-chip interconnection
Authors: Korček Radovan , Medina Quiroz David , Wilmart Quentin , Edmond Samson , Cheben Pavel , Vivien Laurent , Alonso-Ramos Carlos , Benedikovič Daniel
Published: October 2023

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) waveguides become an appealing choice to realize complex photonic integrated circuits for applications in telecom/datacom transceivers, sensing, and quantum information sciences. However, compared to high-index-contrast silicon-on-insulator platform, the index difference between the Si3N4 waveguide core and its claddings is more moderate, which adversely affects the development of vertical grating-coupled optical interfaces. Si3N4 grating couplers suffer from the reduced strength, therefore it is more challenging to radiate all the waveguide power out of the grating within a beam size that is comparable to the mode field diameter of standard optical fibers. In this work, we present, by design and experiments, a library of low-loss and fabrication-tolerant surface grating couplers, operating at 1.55 μm wavelength range and standard SMF-28 fiber. Our designs are fabricated on 400 nm Si3N4 platform using single-etch fabrication and foundry-compatible low-pressure chemical vapor deposition wafers. Experimentally, the peak coupling loss of − 4.4 dB and − 3.9 dB are measured for uniform couplers, while apodized grating couplers yield fiber-chip coupling loss of − 2.9 dB, without the use of bottom mirrors, additional overlays, and multi-layered grating arrangements. Beside the single-hero demonstrations, over 130 grating couplers were realized and tested, showing an excellent agreement with finite difference time domain designs and fabrication-robust performance. Demonstrated grating couplers are promising for Si3N4 photonic chip prototyping by using standard optical fibers, leveraging low-cost and foundry-compatible fabrication technologies, essential for stable and reproducible large-volume device development.
Rapid detection of vaccinia virus using biofunctionalized fiber-optic ball-tip biosensors
Authors: Rakhimbekova Aida , Kudaibergenov Baizak , Seitkamal Kuanysh , Bellone Aurora , Dauletova Ayazhan , Sypabekova Marzhan , Olivero Massimo , Perrone Guido , Radaelli Antonia , Zanotto Carlo , De Giuli Morghen Carlo , Vangelista Luca , Tosi Daniele
Published: October 2023

In this work, we present the development and biofunctionalization of a fiber-optic ball-resonator biosensor for the real-time detection of vaccinia poxvirus. We fabricated several ball-tip resonators, functionalized through a silanization process to immobilize two bioreceptors: the monoclonal anti-L1R antibody targeting the L1R protein, and the polyclonal rabbit serum antibodies targeting the whole vaccinia virus (VV) pathogen. Experimental measurements were carried out to detect VV in concentrations from 103 to 108 plaque-forming units (PFU), with a limit of detection of around 1.7–4.3 × 103 PFU and a log-quadratic pattern, with a response up to 5 × 10−4 RIU (refractive index units). The specificity was assessed against herpes simplex virus, used as a non-specific control, with the best results obtained with anti-L1R monoclonal antibodies, and through the detection of vaccinia virus/herpes simplex-1 combination. The obtained results provide a real-time viral recognition with a label-free sensing platform, having rapid response and ease of manufacturing, and paving the road to the seamless detection of poxviruses affecting different human and animal species using optical fibers.
Omega-3 PUFAs prevent bone impairment and bone marrow adiposity in mouse model of obesity
Authors: Benova Andrea , Ferencakova Michaela , Bardova Kristina , Funda Jiri , Prochazka Jan , Spoutil Frantisek , Cajka Tomas , Dzubanova Martina , Balcaen Tim , Kerckhofs Greet , Willekens Wouter , van Lenthe G. Harry , Charyyeva Arzuv , Alquicer Glenda , Pecinova Alena , Mracek Tomas , Horakova Olga , Coupeau Roman , Hansen Morten Svarer , Rossmeisl Martin , Kopecky Jan , Tencerova Michaela
Published: October 2023

Obesity adversely affects bone and fat metabolism in mice and humans. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) have been shown to improve glucose metabolism and bone homeostasis in obesity. However, the impact of omega-3 PUFAs on bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) and bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) metabolism has not been intensively studied yet. In the present study we demonstrated that omega-3 PUFA supplementation in high fat diet (HFD + F) improved bone parameters, mechanical properties along with decreased BMAT in obese mice when compared to the HFD group. Primary BMSCs isolated from HFD + F mice showed decreased adipocyte and higher osteoblast differentiation with lower senescent phenotype along with decreased osteoclast formation suggesting improved bone marrow microenvironment promoting bone formation in mice. Thus, our study highlights the beneficial effects of omega-3 PUFA-enriched diet on bone and cellular metabolism and its potential use in the treatment of metabolic bone diseases.