bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in expression of VGF, SPECC1L, HLA-DRA and RANBP3L act with APOE E4 to alter risk for late onset Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Branciamore Sergio , Gogoshin Grigoriy , Rodin Andrei S. , Myers Amanda J.
Published: June 2024

While there are currently over 40 replicated genes with mapped risk alleles for Late Onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD), the Apolipoprotein E locus E4 haplotype is still the biggest driver of risk, with odds ratios for neuropathologically confirmed E44 carriers exceeding 30 (95% confidence interval 16.59–58.75). We sought to address whether the APOE E4 haplotype modifies expression globally through networks of expression to increase LOAD risk. We have used the Human Brainome data to build expression networks comparing APOE E4 carriers to non-carriers using scalable mixed-datatypes Bayesian network (BN) modeling. We have found that VGF had the greatest explanatory weight. High expression of VGF is a protective signal, even on the background of APOE E4 alleles. LOAD risk signals, considering an APOE background, include high levels of SPECC1L, HLA-DRA and RANBP3L. Our findings nominate several new transcripts, taking a combined approach to network building including known LOAD risk loci.
Deep learning-based prediction of plant height and crown area of vegetable crops using LiDAR point cloud
Authors: J Reji , Nidamanuri Rama Rao
Published: June 2024

Remote sensing has been increasingly used in precision agriculture. Buoyed by the developments in the miniaturization of sensors and platforms, contemporary remote sensing offers data at resolutions finer enough to respond to within-farm variations. LiDAR point cloud, offers features amenable to modelling structural parameters of crops. Early prediction of crop growth parameters helps farmers and other stakeholders dynamically manage farming activities. The objective of this work is the development and application of a deep learning framework to predict plant-level crop height and crown area at different growth stages for vegetable crops. LiDAR point clouds were acquired using a terrestrial laser scanner on five dates during the growth cycles of tomato, eggplant and cabbage on the experimental research farms of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, India. We implemented a hybrid deep learning framework combining distinct features of long-term short memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) for the predictions of plant height and crown area. The predictions are validated with reference ground truth measurements. These predictions were validated against ground truth measurements. The findings demonstrate that plant-level structural parameters can be predicted well ahead of crop growth stages with around 80% accuracy. Notably, the LSTM and the GRU models exhibited limitations in capturing variations in structural parameters. Conversely, the hybrid model offered significantly improved predictions, particularly for crown area, with error rates for height prediction ranging from 5 to 12%, with deviations exhibiting a more balanced distribution between overestimation and underestimation This approach effectively captured the inherent temporal growth pattern of the crops, highlighting the potential of deep learning for precision agriculture applications. However, the prediction quality is relatively low at the advanced growth stage, closer to the harvest. In contrast, the prediction quality is stable across the three different crops. The results indicate the presence of a robust relationship between the features of the LiDAR point cloud and the auto-feature map of the deep learning methods adapted for plant-level crop structural characterization. This approach effectively captured the inherent temporal growth pattern of the crops, highlighting the potential of deep learning for precision agriculture applications.
Insights into the genomic and functional divergence of NAT gene family to serve microbial secondary metabolism
Authors: Boukouvala Sotiria , Kontomina Evanthia , Olbasalis Ioannis , Patriarcheas Dionysios , Tzimotoudis Dimosthenis , Arvaniti Konstantina , Manolias Aggelos , Tsatiri Maria-Aggeliki , Basdani Dimitra , Zekkas Sokratis
Published: June 2024

Microbial NAT enzymes, which employ acyl-CoA to acylate aromatic amines and hydrazines, have been well-studied for their role in xenobiotic metabolism. Some homologues have also been linked to secondary metabolism, but this function of NAT enzymes is not as well-known. For this comparative study, we surveyed sequenced microbial genomes to update the list of formally annotated NAT genes, adding over 4000 new sequences (mainly bacterial, but also archaeal, fungal and protist) and portraying a broad but not universal distribution of NATs in the microbiocosmos. Localization of NAT sequences within microbial gene clusters was not a rare finding, and this association was evident across all main types of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) implicated in secondary metabolism. Interrogation of the MIBiG database for experimentally characterized clusters with NAT genes further supports that secondary metabolism must be a major function for microbial NAT enzymes and should not be overlooked by researchers in the field. We also show that NAT sequences can be associated with bacterial plasmids potentially involved in horizontal gene transfer. Combined, our computational predictions and MIBiG literature findings reveal the extraordinary functional diversification of microbial NAT genes, prompting further research into their role in predicted BGCs with as yet uncharacterized function.
Improving the performance of 3D image model compression based on optimized DEFLATE algorithm
Authors: Kai Xue , Yuxiang Zhang
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on optimizing and designing the Delayed-Fix-Later Awaiting Transmission Encoding (DEFLATE) algorithm to enhance its compression performance and reduce the compression time for models, specifically in the context of compressing NX three-dimensional (3D) image models. The DEFLATE algorithm, a dual-compression technique combining the LZ77 algorithm and Huffman coding, is widely employed for compressing multimedia data and 3D models. Three 3D models of varying sizes are selected as subjects for experimentation. The Wavelet algorithm, C-Bone algorithm, and DEFLATE algorithm are utilized for compression, with subsequent analysis of the compression ratio and compression time. The experimental findings demonstrate the DEFLATE algorithm’s exceptional performance in compressing 3D image models. Notably, when compressing small and medium-sized 3D models, the DEFLATE algorithm exhibits significantly higher compression ratios compared to the Wavelet and C-Bone algorithms while also achieving shorter compression times. Compared to the Wavelet algorithm, the DEFLATE algorithm enhances the compression performance of 3D image models by 15% and boosts data throughput by 49%. While the compression ratio of the DEFLATE algorithm for large 3D models is comparable to that of the Wavelet and C-Bone algorithms, it notably reduces the actual compression time. Furthermore, the DEFLATE algorithm enhances data transmission reliability in NX 3D image model compression by 12.1% compared to the Wavelet algorithm. Therefore, the following conclusions are drawn: the DEFLATE algorithm serves as an excellent compression algorithm for 3D image models. It showcases significant advantages in compressing small and medium-sized models while remaining highly practical for compressing large 3D models. This study offers valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the DEFLATE algorithm, and it serves as a valuable reference for future research on 3D image model compression.
Monarch butterfly conservation through male germplasm cryopreservation
Authors: Grula Courtney C. , Rajamohan Arun , Rinehart Joseph P.
Published: June 2024

Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus L.) populations have declined in North America. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recently classified the species as endangered, sparking public concern and conservation efforts. Our approach to conservation is through cryopreservation of germinal cells and tissue. The goal of this study was to develop a cryopreservation protocol for monarch spermatozoa to ensure successful long-term storage. Cryopreserved sperm cells would provide a reserve of monarch germplasm, which could be utilized in the event of population loss. In this study, sperm cell bundles collected from male monarch butterflies were cryopreserved in a cryoprotective medium and stored in liquid nitrogen. To determine the post-cryopreservation sperm cell viability, a subsample of preserved sperm bundles were thawed rapidly, and their viability was qualified using a sperm live/dead stain. We are presenting a protocol to preserve and store genetic material and viable sperm bundles of the monarch butterfly. To date, this is the first report of successful cryopreservation of monarch germplasm which sets the foundation for cryostorage and could be extensible to other vulnerable lepidopterans.
Plekhm2 acts as an autophagy modulator in murine heart and cardiofibroblasts
Authors: Etzion Sharon , Hijaze Raneen , Segal Liad , Pilcha Sofia , Masil Dana , Levi Or , Elyagon Sigal , Levitas Aviva , Etzion Yoram , Parvari Ruti
Published: June 2024

Plekhm2 is a protein regulating endosomal trafficking and lysosomal distribution. We recently linked a recessive inherited mutation in PLEKHM2 to a familial form of dilated cardiomyopathy and left ventricular non-compaction. These patients’ primary fibroblasts exhibited abnormal lysosomal distribution and autophagy impairment. We therefore hypothesized that loss of PLEKHM2 impairs cardiac function via autophagy derangement. Here, we characterized the roles of Plekhm2 in the heart using global Plekhm2 knockout (PLK2-KO) mice and cultured cardiac cells. Compared to littermate controls (WT), young PLK2-KO mice exhibited no difference in heart function or autophagy markers but demonstrated higher basal AKT phosphorylation. Older PLK2-KO mice had body and heart growth retardation and increased LC3II protein levels. PLK2-KO mice were more vulnerable to fasting and, interestingly, impaired autophagy was noted in vitro, in Plekhm2-deficient cardiofibroblasts but not in cardiomyocytes. PLK2-KO hearts appeared to be less sensitive to pathological hypertrophy induced by angiotensin-II compared to WT. Our findings suggest a role of Plekhm2 in murine cardiac autophagy. Plekhm2 deficiency impaired autophagy in cardiofibroblasts, but the autophagy in cardiomyocytes is not critically dependent on Plekhm2. The absence of Plekhm2 in mice appears to promote compensatory mechanism(s) enabling the heart to manage angiotensin-II-induced stress without detrimental consequences.
Prognostic potential of CUL3 ligase with differential roles in luminal A and basal type breast cancer tumors
Authors: Pantazi Vasiliki , Miklós Vanda , Smith Paul , Oláh-Németh Orsolya , Pankotai-Bodó Gabriella , Teja Dondapati Divya , Ayaydin Ferhan , D’Angiolella Vincenzo , Pankotai Tibor
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is a prevalent and significant cause of mortality in women, and manifests as six molecular subtypes. Its further histologic classification into non-invasive ductal or lobular carcinoma (DCIS) and invasive carcinoma (ILC or IDC) underscores its heterogeneity. The ubiquitin–proteasome system plays a crucial role in breast cancer, with inhibitors targeting the 26S proteasome showing promise in clinical treatment. The Cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases, including CUL3, have direct links to breast cancer. This study focuses on CUL3 as a potential biomarker, leveraging high-throughput sequencing, gene expression profiling, experimental and data analysis tools. Through comprehensive analysis using databases like GEPIA2 and UALCAN, as well as TCGA datasets, CUL3's expression and its association with prognostic values were assessed. Additionally, the impact of CUL3 overexpression was explored in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines, revealing distinct differences in molecular and phenotypic characteristics. We further profiled its expression and localization in breast cancer tissues identifying prominent differences between luminal A and TNBC tumors. Conclusively, CUL3 was found to be associated with cell cycle progression, and DNA damage response, exhibiting diverse roles depending on the tumor's molecular type. It exhibits a tendency to act as an oncogene in triple-negative tumors and as a tumor suppressor in luminal A types, suggesting a potential significance in breast cancer progression and therapeutic directions.
A deep learning-based algorithm for pulmonary tuberculosis detection in chest radiography
Authors: Chen Chiu-Fan , Hsu Chun-Hsiang , Jiang You-Cheng , Lin Wen-Ren , Hong Wei-Cheng , Chen I.-Yuan , Lin Min-Hsi , Chu Kuo-An , Lee Chao-Hsien , Lee David Lin , Chen Po-Fan
Published: June 2024

In tuberculosis (TB), chest radiography (CXR) patterns are highly variable, mimicking pneumonia and many other diseases. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Google teachable machine, a deep neural network-based image classification tool, to develop algorithm for predicting TB probability of CXRs. The training dataset included 348 TB CXRs and 3806 normal CXRs for training TB detection. We also collected 1150 abnormal CXRs and 627 normal CXRs for training abnormality detection. For external validation, we collected 250 CXRs from our hospital. We also compared the accuracy of the algorithm to five pulmonologists and radiological reports. In external validation, the AI algorithm showed areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.951 and 0.975 in validation dataset 1 and 2. The accuracy of the pulmonologists on validation dataset 2 showed AUC range of 0.936–0.995. When abnormal CXRs other than TB were added, AUC decreased in both human readers (0.843–0.888) and AI algorithm (0.828). When combine human readers with AI algorithm, the AUC further increased to 0.862–0.885. The TB CXR AI algorithm developed by using Google teachable machine in this study is effective, with the accuracy close to experienced clinical physicians, and may be helpful for detecting tuberculosis by CXR.
High-precision object detection network for automate pear picking
Authors: Zhao Peirui , Zhou Wenhua , Na Li
Published: June 2024

To address the urgent need for agricultural intelligence in the face of increasing agricultural output and a shortage of personnel, this paper proposes a high precision object detection network for automated pear picking tasks. The current object detection method using deep learning does not fully consider the redundant background information of the pear detection scene and the mutual occlusion characteristics of multiple pears, so that the detection accuracy is low and cannot meet the needs of complex automated pear picking detection tasks. The proposed, High-level deformation-perception Network with multi-object search NMS(HDMNet), is based on YOLOv8 and utilizes a high-level Semantic focused attention mechanism module to eliminate irrelevant background information and a deformation-perception feature pyramid network to improve accuracy of long-distance and small scale fruit. A multi-object search non-maximum suppression is also proposed to choose the anchor frame in a combined search method suitable for multiple pears. The experimental results show that the HDMNet parameter amount is as low as 12.9 M, the GFLOPs is 41.1, the mAP is 75.7%, the mAP50 reaches 93.6%, the mAP75 reaches 70.2%, and the FPS reaches 73.0. Compared with other SOTA object detection methods, it has the transcend of real-time detection, low parameter amount, low calculation amount, high precision, and accurate positioning.
Bayesian phylogenetic analysis of Philippine languages supports a rapid migration of Malayo-Polynesian languages
Authors: King Benedict , Greenhill Simon J. , Reid Lawrence A. , Ross Malcolm , Walworth Mary , Gray Russell D.
Published: June 2024

The Philippines are central to understanding the expansion of the Austronesian language family from its homeland in Taiwan. It remains unknown to what extent the distribution of Malayo-Polynesian languages has been shaped by back migrations and language leveling events following the initial Out-of-Taiwan expansion. Other aspects of language history, including the effect of language switching from non-Austronesian languages, also remain poorly understood. Here we apply Bayesian phylogenetic methods to a core-vocabulary dataset of Philippine languages. Our analysis strongly supports a sister group relationship between the Sangiric and Minahasan groups of northern Sulawesi on one hand, and the rest of the Philippine languages on the other, which is incompatible with a simple North-to-South dispersal from Taiwan. We find a pervasive geographical signal in our results, suggesting a dominant role for cultural diffusion in the evolution of Philippine languages. However, we do find some support for a later migration of Gorontalo-Mongondow languages to northern Sulawesi from the Philippines. Subsequent diffusion processes between languages in Sulawesi appear to have led to conflicting data and a highly unstable phylogenetic position for Gorontalo-Mongondow. In the Philippines, language switching to Austronesian in ‘Negrito’ groups appears to have occurred at different time-points throughout the Philippines, and based on our analysis, there is no discernible effect of language switching on the basic vocabulary.
Characterization of expression patterns and dynamic relocation of Notch proteins during acrosome reaction of bull spermatozoa
Authors: Diniz Patrícia , Leites Inês , R. Batista Mariana , Torres Ana Catarina , Mateus Luísa , Lopes-da-Costa Luís , Silva Elisabete
Published: June 2024

Notch is a conserved cell-signaling pathway involved in spermatogenesis regulation. This study firstly evaluated the presence, localization patterns, acquisition origin and relation to acrosome reaction of Notch proteins in bull sperm. Western Blot analysis detected all Notch proteins in ejaculated bull sperm, and immunostaining described their specific sperm localization. Recovery of sperm from different segments showed that Notch proteins have testicular origin (NOTCH1, NOTCH2, DLL4), are sequentially acquired during sperm maturation along epididymal transit (NOTCH3, DLL3, JAGGED1-2), or post-ejaculation (DLL1, NOTCH4). Testis NOTCH2 is ubiquitously expressed in all germ-cell lines, whereas DLL4 is expressed in round and elongated spermatids during the Golgi, Cap, Acrosome and Maturation phases. In vitro spontaneous and induced sperm acrosome reaction induce consistent sperm regional relocation of NOTCH2, DLL4 and JAGGED1, and these relocation patterns are significantly associated to sperm acrosome status. NOTCH2 and JAGGED1 are relocated from the head apical to the post-equatorial regions, whereas DLL4 is lost along with the acrosome, evidencing that sperm spatial redistribution of NOTCH2 and JAGGED1 is linked to acrosome reaction onset, whereas DLL4 loss is linked to AR completion. Overall, results prompt for a relevant Notch role in bull sperm acrosome testicular development, epididymal maturation and acrosome reaction.
A fully automated and explainable algorithm for predicting malignant transformation in oral epithelial dysplasia
Authors: Shephard Adam J. , Bashir Raja Muhammad Saad , Mahmood Hanya , Jahanifar Mostafa , Minhas Fayyaz , Raza Shan E. Ahmed , McCombe Kris D. , Craig Stephanie G. , James Jacqueline , Brooks Jill , Nankivell Paul , Mehanna Hisham , Khurram Syed Ali , Rajpoot Nasir M.
Published: June 2024

Oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) is a premalignant histopathological diagnosis given to lesions of the oral cavity. Its grading suffers from significant inter-/intra-observer variability, and does not reliably predict malignancy progression, potentially leading to suboptimal treatment decisions. To address this, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm, that assigns an Oral Malignant Transformation (OMT) risk score based on the Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stained whole slide images (WSIs). Our AI pipeline leverages an in-house segmentation model to detect and segment both nuclei and epithelium. Subsequently, a shallow neural network utilises interpretable morphological and spatial features, emulating histological markers, to predict progression. We conducted internal cross-validation on our development cohort (Sheffield; n = 193 cases) and independent validation on two external cohorts (Birmingham and Belfast; n = 89 cases). On external validation, the proposed OMTscore achieved an AUROC = 0.75 (Recall = 0.92) in predicting OED progression, outperforming other grading systems (Binary: AUROC = 0.72, Recall = 0.85). Survival analyses showed the prognostic value of our OMTscore (C-index = 0.60, p = 0.02), compared to WHO (C-index = 0.64, p = 0.003) and binary grades (C-index = 0.65, p < 0.001). Nuclear analyses elucidated the presence of peri-epithelial and intra-epithelial lymphocytes in highly predictive patches of transforming cases (p < 0.001). This is the first study to propose a completely automated, explainable, and externally validated algorithm for predicting OED transformation. Our algorithm shows comparable-to-human-level performance, offering a promising solution to the challenges of grading OED in routine clinical practice.
The origins of haplotype 58 (H58) Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi
Authors: Carey Megan E. , Thi Nguyen To Nguyen , Tran Do Hoang Nhu , Dyson Zoe A. , Keane Jacqueline A. , Pham Thanh Duy , Mylona Elli , Nair Satheesh , Chattaway Marie , Baker Stephen
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a serious threat to the clinical management of typhoid fever. AMR in Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi) is commonly associated with the H58 lineage, a lineage that arose comparatively recently before becoming globally disseminated. To better understand when and how H58 emerged and became dominant, we performed detailed phylogenetic analyses on contemporary genome sequences from S. Typhi isolated in the period spanning the emergence. Our dataset, which contains the earliest described H58 S. Typhi organism, indicates that ancestral H58 organisms were already multi-drug resistant (MDR). These organisms emerged spontaneously in India in 1987 and became radially distributed throughout South Asia and then globally in the ensuing years. These early organisms were associated with a single long branch, possessing mutations associated with increased bile tolerance, suggesting that the first H58 organism was generated during chronic carriage. The subsequent use of fluoroquinolones led to several independent mutations in gyrA. The ability of H58 to acquire and maintain AMR genes continues to pose a threat, as extensively drug-resistant (XDR; MDR plus resistance to ciprofloxacin and third generation cephalosporins) variants, have emerged recently in this lineage. Understanding where and how H58 S. Typhi originated and became successful is key to understand how AMR drives successful lineages of bacterial pathogens. Additionally, these data can inform optimal targeting of typhoid conjugate vaccines (TCVs) for reducing the potential for emergence and the impact of new drug-resistant variants. Emphasis should also be placed upon the prospective identification and treatment of chronic carriers to prevent the emergence of new drug resistant variants with the ability to spread efficiently.
Single-cell transcriptional profiling of clear cell renal cell carcinoma reveals a tumor-associated endothelial tip cell phenotype
Authors: Zvirblyte Justina , Nainys Juozas , Juzenas Simonas , Goda Karolis , Kubiliute Raimonda , Dasevicius Darius , Kincius Marius , Ulys Albertas , Jarmalaite Sonata , Mazutis Linas
Published: June 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most prevalent form of renal cancer, accounting for over 75% of cases. The asymptomatic nature of the disease contributes to late-stage diagnoses and poor survival. Highly vascularized and immune infiltrated microenvironment are prominent features of ccRCC, yet the interplay between vasculature and immune cells, disease progression and response to therapy remains poorly understood. Using droplet-based single-cell RNA sequencing we profile 50,236 transcriptomes from paired tumor and healthy adjacent kidney tissues. Our analysis reveals significant heterogeneity and inter-patient variability of the tumor microenvironment. Notably, we discover a previously uncharacterized vasculature subpopulation associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The cell-cell communication analysis reveals multiple modes of immunosuppressive interactions within the tumor microenvironment, including clinically relevant interactions between tumor vasculature and stromal cells with immune cells. The upregulation of the genes involved in these interactions is associated with worse survival in the TCGA KIRC cohort. Our findings demonstrate the role of tumor vasculature and stromal cell populations in shaping the ccRCC microenvironment and uncover a subpopulation of cells within the tumor vasculature that is associated with an angiogenic phenotype.
Resonance theory of vibrational strong coupling enhanced polariton chemistry and the role of photonic mode lifetime
Authors: Ying Wenxiang , Huo Pengfei
Published: June 2024

Recent experiments demonstrate polaritons under the vibrational strong coupling (VSC) regime can modify chemical reactivity. Here, we present a complete theory of VSC-modified rate constants when coupling a single molecule to an optical cavity, where the role of photonic mode lifetime is understood. The analytic expression exhibits a sharp resonance behavior, where the maximum rate constant is reached when the cavity frequency matches the vibration frequency. The theory explains why VSC rate constant modification closely resembles the optical spectra of the vibration outside the cavity. Further, we discussed the temperature dependence of the VSC-modified rate constants. The analytic theory agrees well with the numerically exact hierarchical equations of motion (HEOM) simulations for all explored regimes. Finally, we discussed the resonance condition at the normal incidence when considering in-plane momentum inside a Fabry-Pérot cavity.
How tailored climate information affects attitudes towards climate policy and psychological distance of climate change
Authors: Hulkkonen Mira , Mielonen Tero , Leppänen Saara , Laakso Anton , Kokkola Harri
Published: June 2024

How does personally tailored climate impact information affect attitudes towards climate policy paths? We developed an online tool to depict the outcomes of downscaled climate models and a personalised vulnerability estimate. A survey representing Finnish public was conducted to find out the attitudes towards climate policies and psychological distance of climate change among different demographic groups before and after using the tool. We found that tailored information increases knowledge on climate impacts, but the effect on policy attitudes depends on demographic attributes (especially age and income) and related personal vulnerability. After using the tool, the respondents’ confidence in their knowledge increased and the potential of climate policies to alleviate changes in the environment was perceived as higher. Most respondents perceived climate impacts as spatially proximal, while temporally and socially there was more variation. For those with low vulnerability levels, climate impacts appeared as more distant after obtaining tailored information.
Spintronics meets orbitronics: Emergence of orbital angular momentum in solids
Authors: Jo Daegeun , Go Dongwook , Choi Gyung-Min , Lee Hyun-Woo
Published: June 2024

One of the ultimate goals of spintronics is to realize an efficient electrical manipulation of spin for high-speed and low-power nanodevices. A core ingredient for achieving this goal is the relativistic interaction between the electron’s orbital motion and spin, but the properties of the orbital angular momentum itself have remained largely unexplored. However, recent theories and experiments have uncovered that electrons may acquire nonvanishing orbital angular momentum when an external electric field is applied, even without the spin–orbit coupling. These findings have spurred the emergence of a burgeoning field known as orbitronics, which harnesses the orbital angular momentum to manipulate magnetic devices. In this Review, we provide an overview of the recent developments in orbitronics and discuss their implications for spintronics. We then outline future avenues of research at the intersection of spintronics and orbitronics.
Edible Oil-based Feedstock
Authors: Gouda Shiva Prasad , Rokhum Samuel Lalthazuala
Published: June 2024

To meet the rising needs for energy, rapid industrialization, urbanization, and economic expansion, constant increases in fossil fuel usage are necessary. Finding adequate and sustainable replacements for fossil fuels will be essential owing to ongoing emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. The chapter describes edible feedstocks required for biodiesel production. Biodiesel is an appropriate alternative to diesel fuel in engines owing to its non-toxic, renewable, and eco-friendly nature. Triglycerides make up 96% of all edible oils, which can be derived from a variety of plants, animals, and synthetic sources. The first-generation biodiesels are synthesized from edible feedstocks and this chapter discusses some of the most common edible feedstocks such as rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil, coconut oil, palm oil, safflower oil, flaxseed oil, etc., used for biodiesel production.
Developments in Biocatalytic Processes for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Maroju Pranay Amruth , Ganesan Ramakrishnan , Dutta Jayati Ray
Published: June 2024

Biodiesel production through transesterification is heavily reliant on catalysts, which play a significant role in the process. One of the major challenges in biodiesel production is selecting an appropriate catalyst. Both chemical and biological catalysts have been extensively researched for use in transesterification, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Biocatalysts, particularly enzymes, have several desirable qualities that make them superior to chemical catalysts. These qualities include homogeneity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and environmental acceptability. Lipases and phospholipases, with their specificity and regio- and enantioselectivity, are particularly useful in promoting the esterification and transesterification of carboxylic esters during biodiesel production. However, despite these benefits, the high cost of enzymes and the need for recycling contribute to higher production costs. Whole cell-based catalysts derived from various microbes have lower efficiency in the presence of an oily substrate, which reduces the biodiesel yield. However, immobilizing enzymes on a solid matrix has shown promise in improving enzyme stability, reusability, and the ability to survive in extreme temperature and pH environments. Several immobilization methods are available, such as physical adsorption, covalent bonding, entrapment, encapsulation, and cross-linking. It is worth exploring the interactions between biocatalysts and carriers, and also attempting to enhance enzyme features through immobilization or co-immobilization, and the use of whole cells to produce biodiesel more efficiently.
Organic/Natural Additives for Biodiesel
Authors: Alonso Mariana Macías , Soto Rosa Hernández , Carrera-Rodríguez Marcelino , Alcaraz José Francisco Villegas , Marrero Joaquín González
Published: June 2024

For biodiesel to be an effective alternative to diesel and to become widely used, it must overcome various hurdles. Oxidation stability and low-temperature performance are the two critical characteristics of biodiesel fuel. This chapter describes an approach based on the use of organic additives of synthetic or natural origin to overcome the problems presented by biodiesel. Although it is a field in which a large amount of information already exists, it is necessary to continue searching for new, more economical, and effective additives of natural origin.
Efficient perovskite solar modules with an ultra-long processing window enabled by cooling stabilized intermediate phases
Authors: Wan Zhi , Ding Bin , Su Jie , Su Zhenhuang , Li Zhihao , Jia Chunmei , Jiang Zhe , Qin Qianqian , Zhang Meng , Shi Jishan , Wu Haodong , Zhi Chongyang , Wang Fengwei , Li Chuan , Du Liming , Zhang Chao , Ding Yong , Li Can , Gao Xingyu , Xiao Chuanxiao , Chang Jingjing , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Li Zhen
Published: June 2024

Substrate cooling strategy generates a more stable FAPbI3-solvent intermediate and suppresses its transition to δ-FAPbI3, enabling ultra long process window up to 3 hours and efficient solar module.
Rational design of flexible-linked 3D dimeric acceptors for stable organic solar cells demonstrating 19.2% efficiency
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Yuan Shaohui , Chen Tianqi , Wang Jia , Yi Yuan-Qiu-Qiang , Zhao Bin , Li Miaomiao , Yao Zhaoyang , Li Chenxi , Wan Xiangjian , Long Guankui , Kan Bin , Chen Yongsheng
Published: June 2024

Efficient 3D dimeric acceptors linking two monomers with flexible alkyl linkers were developed. The resulting CH8-6-based OSCs achieved a high PCE of 19.2% and also exhibited excellent thermal stability and mechanical flexibility.
Stabilizing the LAGP/Li interface and in situ visualizing the interfacial structure evolution for high-performance solid-state lithium metal batteries
Authors: Li Jin , Chen Junjie , Xu Xiaosa , Sun Jing , Huang Baoling , Zhao Tianshou
Published: June 2024

This work highlights the effectiveness of P-DOL in suppressing side reactions at the Li/LAGP interface, regulating electron transfer and ion migration, and contributing to uniform lithium deposition, thus, enhancing the performance of SSLMBs.
Detection of Omicron variant in November 2021: a retrospective analysis through wastewater in Halifax, Canada
Authors: Hayes Emalie K. , Sweeney Crystal , Stoddart Amina K. , Gagnon Graham A.
Published: June 2024

This study evaluates the efficacy of wastewater surveillance and passive sampling techniques for the early detection of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in a university setting in Halifax, Canada.
Allium tuberosum-derived nanovesicles with anti-inflammatory properties prevent DSS-induced colitis and modify the gut microbiome
Authors: Kang Minkyoung , Kang Minji , Lee Juyeon , Yoo Jiseon , Lee Sujeong , Oh Sangnam
Published: June 2024

Allium tuberosum-derived nanovesicles (ADNs) show anti-inflammatory effects in colitis models, reducing inflammatory factors and restoring gut microbial composition.
Sinensetin, a polymethoxyflavone from citrus fruits, ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury by suppressing Txnip/NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD signaling-mediated inflammatory responses and pyroptosis
Authors: Xu Zaibin , Hu Huiyu , Wang Kongyan , Zhou Ziyi , He Xinqian , Huang Xinan , Hu Yingjie , Huang Jiawen , Luo Zhuohui
Published: June 2024

The functional effect and molecular mechanism diagram of SIN ameliorated ALI.
Design, synthesis, inhibitory activity, and molecular simulations study for d-glucose-conjugated thioureas containing pyrimidine ring as multitarget inhibitors against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, DDP-4, and PTP1B in Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ngoc Toan Vu , Son Hai Do , Thi Kim Van Hoang , Minh Tri Nguyen , Ngoc Toan Duong , Thi Thanh Mai Nguyen , Dinh Thanh Nguyen
Published: June 2024

d-Glucose-conjugated thioureas from 2-aminopyrimidines had inhibitory activity against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, DPP-4, PTP1B. The cytotoxicity, inhibitory kinetics, and molecular simulations of the most potent inhibitors 8k, 8j, 8f, and 8h were studied.
Enhanced VIS-NIR emission of Re4+ doped Cs2ZrCl6 for optical thermometry and near-infrared illumination applications
Authors: Li Boya , Huang Zheng , Cai Peiqing , Zhan Yuxin , Feng Xuhui , Pu Xipeng , Bi Shala , Wang Guanghua , Zhang Jie , Liu Zugang
Published: June 2024

The crystal structure of Re4+ doped Cs2ZrCl6 and its application in the field of optical thermometry and IR imaging.
Ferrocenyl–triazole complexes and their use in heavy metal cation sensing
Authors: Al Khalyfeh Khaled , Ghazzy Asma , Al-As' ad Randa M. , Rüffer Tobias , Kanoun Olfa , Lang Heinrich
Published: June 2024

Ferrocenyl–triazoles synthesized, characterized and electrochemically investigated. They uses as modifier for the screen printed carbon electrodes proven toward cations sensing.
Flexible electrochemical energy storage devices and related applications: recent progress and challenges
Authors: Xiao Bo-Hao , Xiao Kang , Li Jian-Xi , Xiao Can-Fei , Cao Shunsheng , Liu Zhao-Qing
Published: June 2024

This paper reviews advancements in flexible carbon-based and polymer gel materials for various types of energy storage systems, providing guidance for future development of next-generation wearable electronics.
Malate dehydrogenase in parasitic protozoans: roles in metabolism and potential therapeutic applications
Authors: Springer Amy L. , Agrawal Swati , Chang Eric P.
Published: June 2024

The role of malate dehydrogenase (MDH) in the metabolism of various medically significant protozoan parasites is reviewed. MDH is an NADH-dependent oxidoreductase that catalyzes interconversion between oxaloacetate and malate, provides metabolic intermediates for both catabolic and anabolic pathways, and can contribute to NAD+/NADH balance in multiple cellular compartments. MDH is present in nearly all organisms; isoforms of MDH from apicomplexans (Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium spp.), trypanosomatids (Trypanosoma brucei, T. cruzi) and anaerobic protozoans (Trichomonas vaginalis, Giardia duodenalis) are presented here. Many parasitic species have complex life cycles and depend on the environment of their hosts for carbon sources and other nutrients. Metabolic plasticity is crucial to parasite transition between host environments; thus, the regulation of metabolic processes is an important area to explore for therapeutic intervention. Common themes in protozoan parasite metabolism include emphasis on glycolytic catabolism, substrate-level phosphorylation, non-traditional uses of common pathways like tricarboxylic acid cycle and adapted or reduced mitochondria-like organelles. We describe the roles of MDH isoforms in these pathways, discuss unusual structural or functional features of these isoforms relevant to activity or drug targeting, and review current studies exploring the therapeutic potential of MDH and related genes. These studies show that MDH activity has important roles in many metabolic pathways, and thus in the metabolic transitions of protozoan parasites needed for success as pathogens.
Politique de féminisation et de non-discrimination des genres en Belgique francophone : retour sur deux décrets (1993 et 2021)
Authors: Simon Anne Catherine , Van Raemdonck Dan
Published: June 2024

Cette contribution analyse l’évolution de la politique de féminisation en Belgique francophone, sur la base de deux décrets (1993 et 2021) et des guides de diffusion des bonnes pratiques qui les accompagnent (2024 pour le dernier en date). Plus précisément, on passe en revue des arguments politiques utilisés pour accepter ou refuser certaines pratiques et on rend compte de l’évolution des types de formes féminines recommandées ainsi que des restrictions appliquées à l’usage du point médian ou du masculin dans sa valeur dite générique. D’autres concepts ou usages non recommandés par le décret de 2021, comme le genre non marqué, le pronom iel ou l’accord de proximité, sont analysés dans leurs implications pour une communication inclusive.
Micro-diachronie de l’oral en français laurentien : la mouvance des normes communautaires
Authors: Tremblay Mireille
Published: June 2024

Trois études de cas en micro-diachronie de l’oral en français montréalais mettent en évidence les différences dans la structuration sociale de variables, contribuant ainsi à une meilleure compréhension de l’évolution des pratiques langagières en contexte urbain. Le modèle de diglossie évolutive proposé attribue à un changement sociétal important l’accroissement de la maîtrise et de l’utilisation du français de référence, et l’intégration de variantes associées au français de référence dans le vernaculaire.
La pratique discursive de Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema à l’aune de la conquête d’une légitimité politique
Authors: Mebiame-Akono Pamphile
Published: June 2024

Cette publication prend pour ancrage situationnel, l’allocution de Brice Clotaire OliguiNguema lors de son investiture comme Chef d’État du Gabon. Il s’agit d’interroger la construction d’un discours de légitimité mis en branle par ce sujet-énonciateur pour crédibiliser sa prise de pouvoir le 30 août 2023. Au niveau énonciatif, la pratique discursive du locuteur affiche une intention de persuasion d’une part, et de séduction d’autre part. La description d’une identité verbale oriente cette recherche. L’arrière-plan théorique se fonde sur une transdisciplinarité convoquant aussi bien la Pragmatique des interactions verbales, l’Analyse du discours et la Rhétorique.
Le sens du mot violence dans le traitement des problèmes publics dans la presse : le cas des violences policières et des violences faites aux femmes
Authors: Yoon Yoohee
Published: June 2024

Le nom violence est un terme très utilisé dans les médias afin d’aborder divers phénomènes sociaux. Ce mot a un référent et un sens qui varient en fonction du contexte et du cotexte, sans toutefois engendrer de difficulté de compréhension. L’emploi du mot au pluriel étant dominant dans le discours médiatique, le terme décrit des événements de violence et aborde les actes dans sa généralité. De plus, il désigne un fait social (Searle 1998), notamment un problème public (Dewey 2010), une entité abstraite créée par la volonté humaine. Suivant ces constats, on analyse le sens du nom violence lorsqu’il est utilisé dans le discours médiatique pour aborder le sujet des violences faites aux femmes et des violences policières. Pour ce faire, on examine les cooccurrents des syntagmes nominaux les plus récurrents, qui comprennent le mot violence, afin de mettre au jour les différents sens du mot qui contribuent à la construction des problèmes publics.
Les noms d’humains dans la presse sportive en Suisse romande : un facteur d’inégalité de traitement entre les athlètes féminines et masculins ?
Authors: Aubry Laura , Pamuksaç Aylin
Published: June 2024

Dans cette recherche, il est étudié la façon dont les athlètes féminines et masculins sont nommé·es dans le discours journalistique sportif (DJS) en Suisse romande. Le postulat de départ est que les noms d’humains permettent de souligner les différences mais aussi les inégalités -si elles existent -entre le traitement des femmes et des hommes dans ce domaine. A l’aide d’une classification des noms d’humains (inspirée de Gosselin 2018 et adaptée au DJS par les autrices) et d’un corpus constitué de plus de 1000 articles triés selon plusieurs métadonnées telles que le genre des journalistes ou des personnes nommées dans les articles, l’étude relève que les femmes sont en priorité médiatisées pour leurs exploits, surtout dans les sports individuels, alors que les hommes apparaissent dans la presse pour plusieurs autres raisons, même leurs défaites. Cependant, les athlètes masculins font plus souvent l’objet de dénomination hyperbolique, ce qui démontre une certaine admiration à l’égard des sportifs.
Enquête sur la variation lexicale en Suisse romande : cartographie des tendances cantonales et intracantonales, focus sur le Valais
Authors: Rumpf Céline
Published: June 2024

Cet article vise à documenter la variation lexicale au sein de l’espace francophone en Suisse. En utilisant des méthodes issues des humanités numériques et des enquêtes participatives en ligne, des données ont été collectées pour analyser l’utilisation de certaines lexies dans le langage quotidien des locuteurs de français en Suisse romande et plus spécificiquement en Valais. Les résultats ont été interprétés à travers la création de cartes de chaleur, illustrant la vitalité des différents phénomènes lexicaux et leurs zones de prévalence. Cette approche méthodologique novatrice offre une perspective précise et détaillée sur la dynamique lexicale au sein de la communauté linguistique romande. L’analyse des cartes s’effectue à plusieurs niveaux. On examinera d’abord la variation lexicale d’un point de vue cantonal, en se penchant sur les lexies préférées dans chaque canton. Puis, on approfondira davantage en explorant les différences au sein même des cantons, mettant en lumière la variation lexicale intracantonale. Cette approche multicouche permet une compréhension approfondie des tendances lexicales à l’échelle cantonale, tout en révélant les nuances intracantonales qui contribuent à la richesse et à la diversité linguistique observée dans la Suisse francophone.
L’odyssée du mot veillatif : du français de Normandie aux créoles antillais
Authors: De Mareschal Claire
Published: June 2024

Absent de tous les ouvrages lexicographiques traitant du français général, le type lexi. cal veillatif (qui signifie "vigilant", mais aussi "tatillon") est attesté en Normandie dès l’époque classique et jusqu’à la fin du premier tiers du XXe siècle. Désormais disparu du français de la métropole, il a intégré le français des Antilles et le créole antillais, où sa vitalité est encore aujourd’hui intacte, surtout dans un contexte militant et politique. L’objet de cette communication est de proposer des hy pothèses sur son origine et sa formation, d’en donner une définition plus précise grâce à l’ana lyse d’attestations significatives qui rendent compte de la diversité de ses connotations, d’étudier dans quels contextes il a été utilisé (en particulier, dans les domaines maritime et agricole), comment il s’est exporté outre-Atlantique, et enfin de s’interroger sur l’intégration au français littéraire antillais et aux créoles antillais, sous la forme graphique veyatif, d’un type lexical dont l’emploi, en métropole comme outre-mer, a rarement été neutre.
L’omission dequeen français mauricien
Authors: Alleesaib Muhsina , Chady Shimeen , Florigny Guilhem , Fon Sing Guillaume , Hassamal Shrita , Abeillé Anne
Published: June 2024

Sur la base de trois corpus récents, deux oraux et un écrit, nous montrons que l’omission de ‘que’ dans les complétives est très élevé en français mauricien, plus élevée que celle étudiée ailleurs dans la francophonie. Nous la comparons avec l’omission de ‘ki’ en créole mauricien. Nous suggérons une influence du créole mauricien.