bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants for secondary prevention in ischemic stroke with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Nam Ki-Woong , Kwon Hyung-Min , Lee Yong-Seok , Won Sung-Ho , Moon Hye-Sung , Park Jong-Ho
Published: April 2024

Previous studies have rarely investigated the role of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOAC) and warfarin in the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). In this study, we compared the effectiveness and safety of NOAC and warfarin for secondary prevention in Korean ischemic stroke patients with NVAF. Based on the Korean National Health Insurance Service Database, this study included 21,064 oral anticoagulants-naïve acute ischemic stroke patients with NVAF between July 2015 and June 2019. The main study outcomes included ischemic stroke, systemic embolism, major bleeding, and death. During the observational periods, NOAC users had a significantly decreased risk of ischemic stroke + systemic embolism (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.78–0.95), ischemic stroke (aHR 0.89; 95% CI 0.81–0.99), major bleeding (aHR 0.78; 95% CI 0.68–0.89), and all-cause death (aHR 0.87; 95% CI 0.81–0.93). Standard-dose NOAC users had a lower risk of ischemic stroke, systemic embolism, and major bleeding events than warfarin users. In contrast, low-dose NOAC users did not differ in risk from warfarin users for all outcomes. In conclusion, NOACs were associated with a lower risk of secondary thromboembolic events and bleeding complications in Korean ischemic stroke patients with NVAF than warfarin.
Deep learning-aided 3D proxy-bridged region-growing framework for multi-organ segmentation
Authors: Chen Zhihong , Yao Lisha , Liu Yue , Han Xiaorui , Gong Zhengze , Luo Jichao , Zhao Jietong , Fang Gang
Published: April 2024

Accurate multi-organ segmentation in 3D CT images is imperative for enhancing computer-aided diagnosis and radiotherapy planning. However, current deep learning-based methods for 3D multi-organ segmentation face challenges such as the need for labor-intensive manual pixel-level annotations and high hardware resource demands, especially regarding GPU resources. To address these issues, we propose a 3D proxy-bridged region-growing framework specifically designed for the segmentation of the liver and spleen. Specifically, a key slice is selected from each 3D volume according to the corresponding intensity histogram. Subsequently, a deep learning model is employed to pinpoint the semantic central patch on this key slice, to calculate the growing seed. To counteract the impact of noise, segmentation of the liver and spleen is conducted on superpixel images created through proxy-bridging strategy. The segmentation process is then extended to adjacent slices by applying the same methodology iteratively, culminating in the comprehensive segmentation results. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed framework accomplishes segmentation of the liver and spleen with an average Dice Similarity Coefficient of approximately 0.93 and a Jaccard Similarity Coefficient of around 0.88. These outcomes substantiate the framework's capability to achieve performance on par with that of deep learning methods, albeit requiring less guidance information and lower GPU resources.
The impact of hydroxyapatite crystal structures and protein interactions on bone's mechanical properties
Authors: Sun Yadi , Wang Yan , Ji Chunhui , Ma Jianxiong , He Bingnan
Published: April 2024

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) constitutes the primary mineral component of bones, and its crystal structure, along with the surface interaction with proteins, significantly influences the outstanding mechanical properties of bone. This study focuses on natural hydroxyapatite, constructing a surface model with calcium vacancy defects. Employing a representative model of aspartic acid residues, we delve into the adsorption mechanism on the crystal surface and scrutinize the adsorption forms of amino acid residues on HAP and calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) surfaces. The research also explores the impact of different environments on adsorption energy. Furthermore, a simplified sandwich structure of crystal-polypeptide-crystal is presented, analyzing the distribution of amino acid residue adsorption sites on the crystal surface of the polypeptide fragment. This investigation aims to elucidate how the stick–slip mechanism of polypeptide molecules on the crystal surface influences the mechanical properties of the system. By uncovering the interface mechanical behavior between HAP and osteopontin peptides, this article offers valuable theoretical insights for the construction and biomimetic design of biocomposites.
ZleepAnlystNet: a novel deep learning model for automatic sleep stage scoring based on single-channel raw EEG data using separating training
Authors: Jirakittayakorn Nantawachara , Wongsawat Yodchanan , Mitrirattanakul Somsak
Published: April 2024

Numerous models for sleep stage scoring utilizing single-channel raw EEG signal have typically employed CNN and BiLSTM architectures. While these models, incorporating temporal information for sequence classification, demonstrate superior overall performance, they often exhibit low per-class performance for N1-stage, necessitating an adjustment of loss function. However, the efficacy of such adjustment is constrained by the training process. In this study, a pioneering training approach called separating training is introduced, alongside a novel model, to enhance performance. The developed model comprises 15 CNN models with varying loss function weights for feature extraction and 1 BiLSTM for sequence classification. Due to its architecture, this model cannot be trained using an end-to-end approach, necessitating separate training for each component using the Sleep-EDF dataset. Achieving an overall accuracy of 87.02%, MF1 of 82.09%, Kappa of 0.8221, and per-class F1-socres (W 90.34%, N1 54.23%, N2 89.53%, N3 88.96%, and REM 87.40%), our model demonstrates promising performance. Comparison with sleep technicians reveals a Kappa of 0.7015, indicating alignment with reference sleep stags. Additionally, cross-dataset validation and adaptation through training with the SHHS dataset yield an overall accuracy of 84.40%, MF1 of 74.96% and Kappa of 0.7785 when tested with the Sleep-EDF-13 dataset. These findings underscore the generalization potential in model architecture design facilitated by our novel training approach.
CBX3 antagonizes IFNγ/STAT1/PD-L1 axis to modulate colon inflammation and CRC chemosensitivity
Authors: Xiang Yao , Mata-Garrido Jorge , Fu Yuanji , Desterke Christophe , Batsché Eric , Hamaï Ahmed , Sedlik Christine , Sereme Youssouf , Skurnik David , Jalil Abdelali , Onifarasoaniaina Rachel , Frapy Eric , Beche Jean-Christophe , Alao Razack , Piaggio Eliane , Arbibe Laurence , Chang Yunhua
Published: April 2024

As an important immune stimulator and modulator, IFNγ is crucial for gut homeostasis and its dysregulation links to diverse colon pathologies, such as colitis and colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we demonstrated that the epigenetic regulator, CBX3 (also known as HP1γ) antagonizes IFNγ signaling in the colon epithelium by transcriptionally repressing two critical IFNγ-responsive genes: STAT1 and CD274 (encoding Programmed death-ligand 1, PD-L1). Accordingly, CBX3 deletion resulted in chronic mouse colon inflammation, accompanied by upregulated STAT1 and CD274 expressions. Chromatin immunoprecipitation indicated that CBX3 tethers to STAT1 and CD274 promoters to inhibit their expression. Reversely, IFNγ significantly reduces CBX3 binding to these promoters and primes gene expression. This antagonist effect between CBX3 and IFNγ on STAT1/PD-L1 expression was also observed in CRC. Strikingly, CBX3 deletion heightened CRC cells sensitivity to IFNγ, which ultimately enhanced their chemosensitivity under IFNγ stimulation in vitro with CRC cells and in vivo with a syngeneic mouse tumor model. Overall, this work reveals that by negatively tuning IFNγ-stimulated immune genes’ transcription, CBX3 participates in modulating colon inflammatory response and CRC chemo-resistance.
Inhibition of asparagine synthetase effectively retards polycystic kidney disease progression
Authors: Clerici Sara , Podrini Christine , Stefanoni Davide , Distefano Gianfranco , Cassina Laura , Steidl Maria Elena , Tronci Laura , Canu Tamara , Chiaravalli Marco , Spies Daniel , Bell Thomas A , Costa Ana SH , Esposito Antonio , D’Alessandro Angelo , Frezza Christian , Bachi Angela , Boletta Alessandra
Published: April 2024

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by bilateral cyst formation. We showed that PKD cells and kidneys display metabolic alterations, including the Warburg effect and glutaminolysis, sustained in vitro by the enzyme asparagine synthetase (ASNS). Here, we used antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) against Asns in orthologous and slowly progressive PKD murine models and show that treatment leads to a drastic reduction of total kidney volume (measured by MRI) and a prominent rescue of renal function in the mouse. Mechanistically, the upregulation of an ATF4–ASNS axis in PKD is driven by the amino acid response (AAR) branch of the integrated stress response (ISR). Metabolic profiling of PKD or control kidneys treated with Asns-ASO or Scr-ASO revealed major changes in the mutants, several of which are rescued by Asns silencing in vivo. Indeed, ASNS drives glutamine-dependent de novo pyrimidine synthesis and proliferation in cystic epithelia. Notably, while several metabolic pathways were completely corrected by Asns-ASO, glycolysis was only partially restored. Accordingly, combining the glycolytic inhibitor 2DG with Asns-ASO further improved efficacy. Our studies identify a new therapeutic target and novel metabolic vulnerabilities in PKD.
New insight from MALDI-TOF MS and multivariate data analysis on the botanical origin of polysaccharide-based paint binders in ancient Egypt
Authors: Granzotto Clara , Aksamija Amra , Tinnevelt Gerjen H. , Turkina Viktoriia , Sutherland Ken
Published: April 2024

The combined use of MALDI-MS and statistical analysis to study paint binders in artworks from ancient Egypt indicated that Vachellia species, most likely V. nilotica or V. tortilis, were used as a source of gums for paint binders.
Lateral flow strip assay of a gene segment in the COVID-19 virus with combined dual readout mode and preliminary multisite hybrid chain reaction amplification
Authors: Yu Shiyong , Zhang Daoguangyao , Jiang Hao , Geng Lina , Deng Yulin , Xu Jiandong
Published: April 2024

The past and present scenario of COVID-19 has revealed the necessity of simple point-of-care tests.
Detection of redox potential evolution during the initial stage of an acute wound based on a redox-sensitive SERS-active optical fiber
Authors: Zhang Shuyu , Ji Lingling , Xu Kun , Xiong Xiulei , Ai Bingwei , Qian Weiping , Dong Jian
Published: April 2024

A redox-sensitive SERS-active optical fiber was inserted into the body to cause an acute wound, and then the redox potential evolution of the acute wound was detected in real time from the end of the SERS-active optical fiber.
Rapid detection of microalgae cells based on upconversion nanoprobes
Authors: Li Jiayao , Xue Xiaohong , Xin Fangyun , Xing Mingming , Pang Qiang , Wang Hong , Tian Ying
Published: April 2024

In this work, we used an upconversion nanoprobe NaYF4:Er3+,Tm3+ to develop a new method for rapid and efficient detection of microalgae concentration.
In situ dissolved polypropylene prediction by Raman and ATR-IR spectroscopy for its recycling
Authors: Ferchichi Sofiane , Sheibat-Othman Nida , Boyron Olivier , Bonnin Charles , Norsic Sébastien , Rey-Bayle Maud , Monteil Vincent
Published: April 2024

Within the context of solvent-based plastic recycling, monitoring of polypropylene dissolution is ensured by employing advanced spectroscopy and a comprehensive parametric study is handled.
Mitigation of cation exchange resin deactivation in the one-pot conversion of fructose to methyl levulinate
Authors: Beaurepaire Aymerick , Bodin Justine , Dufour Delphine , Blancart Remaury Quentin , Baudouin Stanislas , de Oliveira Vigier Karine , Jérôme François
Published: April 2024

Cation exchange resins represent an important family of solid acid organic catalysts that have been used to convert fructose to methyl levulinate.
Probing the effect of the Si/Al ratio in Cu-CHA zeolite catalysts on SO2 exposure: in situ DR UV-vis spectroscopy and deactivation measurements
Authors: Abasabadi Reza K. , Janssens Ton V. W. , Bordiga Silvia , Berlier Gloria
Published: April 2024

UV-vis shows the effect of SO2 on [CuII2(NH3)4O2]2+ complexes in Cu-CHA catalysts with different Si/Al ratios. The amount of [CuII2(NH3)4O2]2+ correlates with the activity in NH3-SCR and sulfur uptake, but not with deactivation.
Identification of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors through deep reinforcement learning for de novo drug design and computational chemistry approaches
Authors: Hazemann Julien , Kimmerlin Thierry , Lange Roland , Sweeney Aengus Mac , Bourquin Geoffroy , Ritz Daniel , Czodrowski Paul
Published: April 2024

A pragmatic approach to the discovery of new SARS-COV-2 Mpro inhibitors by combining generative chemistry and computational chemistry approaches.
Single-molecule imaging of aquaporin-4 array dynamics in astrocytes
Authors: Zepernick Anna-Lena , Metodieva Vanya , Pelegrina-Hidalgo Noelia , Lippert Anna H. , Horrocks Mathew H. , Varela Juan A.
Published: April 2024

Single-molecule imaging in astrocytes shows that aquaporin-4 array size and mobility are modulated by adrenergic signalling and tonicity changes. Created with BioRender.
Nanoparticle induced fusion of lipid membranes
Authors: Blasco Sofía , Sukeník Lukáš , Vácha Robert
Published: April 2024

We found that the optimal fusogenic nanoparticle is able to form a stalk but does not overstabilize it, facilitating the opening of a fusion pore.
Recent advances in bismuth oxychalcogenide nanosheets for sensing applications
Authors: Kumar Shringi Amit , Kumar Rajeev , Yan Fei
Published: April 2024

This minireview explores the unique properties and potential applications of bismuth oxychalcogenide nanosheets in chemical and biological sensing, and photodetection.
Reducing and tuning the work function of field emission nanocomposite CNT/NiO cathodes by modifying the chemical composition of the oxide
Authors: Chumak Maksim A. , Popov Eugeni O. , Filippov Sergei V. , Kolosko Anatoly G. , Kirilenko Demid A. , Bert Nikolay A. , Zhizhin Evgeniy V. , Koroleva Alexandra V. , Yezhov Ilya S. , Maximov Maxim Yu.
Published: April 2024

The possibility of tuning the work function of field emission cathodes coated with metal oxides by modifying the chemical composition of the oxide film using an example of CNT/NiO nanostructures is proposed.
PIDA-promoted metal-free [3 + 2] heteroannulation of β-ketothioamides with 4-hydroxy coumarins: chemo-/regioselective access to furo[3,2-c]chromen-4-ones at room temperature
Authors: Kumar Yadav Anup , Yadav Dhananjay , Kumar Vipin , Ray Subhasish , Singh Maya Shankar
Published: April 2024

A viable protocol to access furo[3,2-c]chromen-4-ones engaging 4-hydroxy coumarins and thioamides and mediated by phenyliodine(iii) diacetate at room temperature in a highly efficient manner is developed.
High ratios of Ni3+ and Co3+ facilitated by Mn-addition for enhanced oxygen evolution reaction and ethanol oxidation reaction
Authors: Zhen Yi-Nuo , Fan Ruo-Yao , Jiang Xin-Yin , Yu Ning , Chai Yong-Ming , Dong Bin
Published: April 2024

The design of dual-functional catalyst for oxygen evolution reaction and ethanol oxidation reaction is essential for improving H2 production efficiency, and one strategy to improve catalytic performance is the incorporation of high-valence metal.
The effects of crystal structure on the chemical durability of yttrium disilicate
Authors: Bryce Keith , Yang Kun , Li Mingxin , Zhao Dong , Lian Jie
Published: April 2024

Elemental release: amorphous Y2Si2O7 is leached in pH 3 nitric acid. Post-leaching characterization of the leachate and pellet surface indicates a preferential release of Y, and the formation of an SiO2 alteration layer on the surface of the pellet.
Electrochemical sensing performance of two CuO nanomaterial-modified dual-working electrodes
Authors: Chang Fengxia , Wang Dan , Pu Zixian , Chen Jinhang , Tan Jiong
Published: April 2024

Systematic comparison of electrochemical sensing performance between CuO nanospheres and CuO nanochains with similar diameter using a dual-working electrode system.
Single-fibre coating and additive manufacturing of multifunctional papers
Authors: Mikolei Joanna Judith , Helbrecht Christiane , Pleitner Janine Christin , Stanzel Mathias , Pardehkhorram Raheleh , Biesalski Markus , Schabel Samuel , Andrieu-Brunsen Annette
Published: April 2024

We combine a functionalized cellulose fiber library with paper fabrication by layer-wise fiber deposition or fiber printing. This approach allows us to design wettability in all paper dimensions and unidirectional polarity-dependent fluid transport.
Bicomponent core/sheath melt-blown fibers for air filtration with ultra-low resistance
Authors: Lin Xiaofang , Sun Wenbo , Lin Minggang , Chen Ting , Duan Kangming , Lin Huiting , Zhang Chuyang , Qi Huan
Published: April 2024

A one-step melt-blown spinning process has been proposed for the production of bicomponent core/sheath (BCS) crimped fibers, which can be applied to high-efficiency, low-resistance air filtration.
Ag/AgBr-oxygen enriched g-C3N4 for efficient photocatalytic degradation of trimethylamine
Authors: Chen Xinru , Duan Zeyu , He Feiyang , Wang Haiqiang , Wu Zhongbiao
Published: April 2024

In this study, Ag/AgBr–O-gCN samples with ternary Z-type heterojunctions were prepared by in situ photoreduction using water as the reducing agent for generating Ag/AgBr active species and oxygen doping.
An effective gradient jellyfish search algorithm for optimal reactive power dispatch in electrical networks
Authors: Abd‐El Wahab Ahmed M. , Kamel Salah , Hassan Mohamed H. , Sultan Hamdy M. , Molu Reagan Jean Jacques
Published: April 2024

An effective optimization technique, called gradient jellyfish search optimizer (GJSO), is introduced here to address the optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) issue in electric networks. The ORPD problem is a complex non‐linear optimization issue involving integrated variables, aimed at achieving safe and cost‐effective operation of the system by determining optimal values for generator voltage, tap changers of transformers, and reactive power compensation. The performance of the original JSO technique is enhanced by integrating the local escaping operator into the GJSO approach. The effectiveness of the GJSO methodology is evaluated via comparison with two existing methodologies: the original jellyfish search optimizer and the equilibrium optimizer. Jellyfish search optimizer is a meta‐heuristic optimization algorithm inspired by the movement of jellyfish in the water, while equilibrium optimizer draws inspiration from game theory and equilibrium concepts. Simulations were conducted using typical IEEE‐30 bus and IEEE‐57 bus systems to validate the performance of the GJSO methodology. Two versions of the objective function are examined: minimizing line power loss and minimizing total voltage deviations at the buses. The simulation results demonstrated that the GJSO algorithm exhibited superior performance in terms of accuracy and stability compared to the standard jellyfish search optimizer and equilibrium optimizer algorithms.
Rabattement des nappes et équité d’accès aux eaux souterraines : Analyse comparative des catégories d’exploitations agricoles dans le centre de la Tunisie
Authors: El Amami Hacib , Kompany Jean Robert , Muanda Charles
Published: April 2024

La surexploitation des nappes génère un coût économique et environnemental qui se traduit par la diminution de la disponibilité de l’eau et l’augmentation de son coût de pompage. Les études portant sur la distribution de ces coûts à travers les types d’exploitations et leur impact sur l’équité d’accès aux eaux souterraines demeurent limitées en Tunisie. À travers l’élaboration d’indicateurs par le modèle de programmation mathématique appliqué à des exploitations types, ce travail a montré que les coûts résultant de la surexploitation des nappes sont inégalement répartis. Les petites exploitations, disposant de moins de 3 ha, sont les plus affectées. Elles encourent des coûts de pompage de 1,25 à 1,5 fois plus élevés que les exploitations disposant d’une superficie beaucoup plus large. Le ratio bénéfice-coût de l’irrigation est également le plus faible dans cette catégorie, suggérant la non-rentabilité de l’irrigation dans un futur proche. Ce travail a révélé que l’accès économique à l’eau souterraine est désormais tributaire de la dotation de deux facteurs clés : le capital foncier et le capital financier. Les exploitations disposant de moyens fonciers et financiers vont continuer à profiter des eaux souterraines, tandis que les petites exploitations risquent d’en perdre rapidement l’accès, se trouvant ainsi exclues de leur part de cette ressource collective. Afin de préserver l’égalité d’accès pour toutes les catégories d’exploitations, et de prévenir une accentuation de la dégradation de la nappe, une politique robuste de gouvernance devrait être mise en place, avec une implication plus forte des usagers locaux et de l’administration agricole régionale.
Design of a material sorting digital twin system based on NX MCD
Authors: Li Minxia , Yang Dayong
Published: April 2024

Current methods of manually checking whether materials meet the required standards are inefficient and harmful to workers' health. To address the complexity and variability of real-world systems, it is imperative to establish highly consistent digital models for subsequent operations. However, there is a challenge in unifying various modules and components into a single system and optimizing them for functionality. A mechatronic solution is proposed for material sorting within the production manufacturing process, leveraging Siemens TIA Portal and NX 2007. The solution involves constructing a physical platform and realizing a digital twin system to enable real-virtual interaction via communication protocols. Initially, a virtual material sorting simulation and debugging platform is established using NX software, while operations are conducted in the TIA Portal. Subsequently, the control program is designed within the TIA Portal, and Virtual PLCs are created using PLCSIM Advanced for virtual debugging and analysis, confirming the solution's feasibility. Following this, the physical material sorting platform is developed, utilizing Siemens S7-1500 PLC to manage inverter and servo motor operations. Ultimately, the OPC UA communication protocol facilitates information exchange between the physical PLC and the virtual platform, establishing effective linkage between the virtual system and the physical model to ensure coordination and consistency. Results demonstrate real-time synchronization and virtual sorting operations during joint real-virtual debugging. This digital twin design solution is poised to significantly enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce initial hardware costs in factory design, and augment automation and intelligence in production.
« La réussite des applications de l’IA tient à la mise en place d’un véritable processus avec toutes les parties prenantes »
Authors: Dupin Ludovic , Thevenon Jean-Bernard
Published: April 2024

Catherine Devic, responsable de programmes R&D chez EDF, décrit comment EDF s’est emparé très tôt des outils liés à l’IA. Elle revient sur les conditions essentielles à remplir pour les pérenniser dans le temps.
Consider Carcinoma Cuniculatum in Recurrent Foot Ulcer: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Nunes-Abreu Francisco , Hidalgo-Caro Ruben , Lorda-Barraguer Elena , Cristóbal-Redondo Victor , Céspedes-Guirao F. Javier
Published: April 2024

Carcinoma cuniculatum is a variant of squamous cell carcinoma, characterized by a slow growth with progressive crypt-like invasion of deep tissue. This tumor is frequently misdiagnosed as a benign skin lesion both clinically and histopathologically. The final diagnosis is often delayed as it requires a large sample biopsy. We report the case of a 67-year-old patient who presented to us with a recurring chronic ulcer over a surgical scar of 5 years of evolution.

Only after a wide resection of the chronic ulcer was it possible to achieve the correct diagnosis of this large and poorly evolving carcinoma. The subsequent reconstruction with a musculocutaneous gracilis free flap allowed the patient to walk again.
Single-center experience with intraprocedural cleansing system to improve inadequate bowel preparation during colonoscopy
Authors: Herman Tessa , Wongjarupong Nicha , Wilson Natalie , Megna Bryant , Are Vijay , Westanmo Anders , Lou Susan , Bilal Mohammad , Hanson Brian J
Published: April 2024

Inadequate bowel preparation is common despite various preprocedure interventions. There is a need for an intervention at the time of colonoscopy to combat poor preparation. In this retrospective, observational study of 46 patients, we evaluated the clinical efficacy and feasibility of implementing the third generation of the Pure-Vu EVS System, a US Food and Drug Administration-cleared over-the-scope-based intraprocedural cleansing device, into our practice at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center (Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States). To study clinical efficacy, we measured bowel preparation adequacy before and after using the device, as measured by the Boston Bowel Preparation Score, and reviewed colonoscopy surveillance interval recommendations. Technical success and feasibility of using the device were measured by procedure success rates and duration. We found that BBPS scores increased from 4.4 to 7.9 when using the device. Technical success was achieved 78.3% of the time (36/46 cases). Median colonoscopy duration was 46 minutes, although there was a trend toward shorter procedures over time. This is the first clinical evaluation of the third generation of an intraprocedural cleansing device. We found the device efficacious and easy to use with low procedure failure rates, but it does come with a learning curve. We suspect that adoption of this device mutually will benefit patients and health systems with the potential to improve resource utilization.
Bilateral Synchronous Testicular Cancer with Discordant Histopathology: A Case Report
Authors: Özen Mehmet , Yazıcıoğlu İrem , Kırdağ Mustafa Koray , Aydın Mustafa
Published: April 2024

Bilateral testicular tumors account for 1 to 5% of all testicular tumors. Most bilateral tumors are observed metachronously. Synchronous tumors usually present with the similar histological pattern. Bilateral synchronous testicular tumors with discordant pathology are extremely rare. Only 56 cases have been documented since Bidard first described synchronous testicular tumors with discordant pathology in 1853. To our best knowledge, this study will be the 57th case in the literature.
Economic policy uncertainty and cash dividend policy: evidence from China
Authors: Li Chuanzhen , Zhao Liang , Zhang Yiwen
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the impact of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on the dividend policy of listed companies, alongside its underlying mechanisms. Based on a panel data compilation from 4421 Chinese listed companies spanning 2007 to 2021, the research demonstrates that EPU significantly increases the cash dividends of listed companies. Our findings resolve endogeneity issues and are robust to different variable definitions. The influence is more significant among smaller, non-state-owned companies, as well as those with lower equity concentration and lower financial constraints. We further find that EPU heightens investors’ demand for dividends, increases agency costs, and reduces business growth opportunities to improve companies’ dividend distribution tendency. Moreover, we find that increasing dividend payout when EPU increases is aligned with shareholders’ wealth maximization objective.
Designer proteins fit like a glove
Authors: Miller Johanna
Published: April 2024

The bespoke biomolecules interact with molecular targets in predictable, controllable ways.
Two new minerals found on the Moon
Authors: Fattaruso Laura
Published: April 2024

A glass bead containing an impact crater just 9 µm across is the source of otherworldly titanium oxide compounds.
The influence of home versus clinic anal human papillomavirus sampling on high-resolution anoscopy uptake in the Prevent Anal Cancer Self-Swab Study
Authors: Nitkowski Jenna , Ridolfi Timothy J. , Lundeen Sarah J. , Giuliano Anna R. , Chiao Elizabeth Y. , Fernandez Maria E. , Schick Vanessa , Smith Jennifer S. , Brzezinski Bridgett , Nyitray Alan G.
Published: April 2024

Background Anal cancer disproportionately affects sexual and gender minority individuals living with HIV. High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) is an in-clinic procedure to detect precancerous anal lesions and cancer, yet prospective data on factors associated with HRA attendance are lacking. We examined whether anal HPV sampling at home versus in a clinic impacts HRA uptake and assessed HRA acceptability. Methods Sexual and gender minority individuals were randomised to home-based self-sampling or clinical sampling. All were asked to attend in-clinic HRA 1 year later. We regressed HRA attendance on study arm using multivariable Poisson regression and assessed HRA acceptability using χ2 tests. Results A total of 62.8% of 196 participants who engaged in screening attended HRA. Although not significant (P = 0.13), a higher proportion of participants who engaged in clinic-based screening attended HRA (68.5%) compared to home-based participants (57.9%). Overall, HRA uptake was higher among participants with anal cytology history (aRR 1.40, 95% CI 1.07–1.82), and lower among participants preferring a versatile anal sex position versus insertive (aRR 0.70, 95% CI 0.53–0.91), but did not differ by race or HIV serostatus. In the clinic arm, persons living with HIV had lower HRA attendance (42.9%) versus HIV-negative participants (73.3%) (P = 0.02) and Black non-Hispanic participants had lower HRA attendance (41.7%) than White non-Hispanic participants (73.1%), (P = 0.04). No differences in attendance by race or HIV status were observed in the home arm. Conclusions HRA uptake differed significantly by race and HIV status in the clinic arm but not the home arm.
Human mutations in high-confidence Tourette disorder genes affect sensorimotor behavior, reward learning, and striatal dopamine in mice
Authors: Nasello Cara , Poppi Lauren A. , Wu Junbing , Kowalski Tess F. , Thackray Joshua K. , Wang Riley , Persaud Angelina , Mahboob Mariam , Lin Sherry , Spaseska Rodna , Johnson C. K. , Gordon Derek , Tissir Fadel , Heiman Gary A. , Tischfield Jay A. , Bocarsly Miriam , Tischfield Max A.
Published: April 2024

Tourette disorder (TD) is poorly understood, despite affecting 1/160 children. A lack of animal models possessing construct, face, and predictive validity hinders progress in the field. We used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to generate mice with mutations orthologous to human de novo variants in two high-confidence Tourette genes,
CELSR3
and
WWC1
. Mice with human mutations in
Celsr3
and
Wwc1
exhibit cognitive and/or sensorimotor behavioral phenotypes consistent with TD. Sensorimotor gating deficits, as measured by acoustic prepulse inhibition, occur in both male and female
Celsr3
TD models.
Wwc1
mice show reduced prepulse inhibition only in females. Repetitive motor behaviors, common to
Celsr3
mice and more pronounced in females, include vertical rearing and grooming. Sensorimotor gating deficits and rearing are attenuated by aripiprazole, a partial agonist at dopamine type II receptors. Unsupervised machine learning reveals numerous changes to spontaneous motor behavior and less predictable patterns of movement. Continuous fixed-ratio reinforcement shows that
Celsr3
TD mice have enhanced motor responding and reward learning. Electrically evoked striatal dopamine release, tested in one model, is greater. Brain development is otherwise grossly normal without signs of striatal interneuron loss. Altogether, mice expressing human mutations in high-confidence TD genes exhibit face and predictive validity. Reduced prepulse inhibition and repetitive motor behaviors are core behavioral phenotypes and are responsive to aripiprazole. Enhanced reward learning and motor responding occur alongside greater evoked dopamine release. Phenotypes can also vary by sex and show stronger affection in females, an unexpected finding considering males are more frequently affected in TD.
Understanding stoichiometric constraints on growth using resource use efficiency imbalances
Authors: Prater Clay , Phan Tin , Elser James J. , Jeyasingh Punidan D.
Published: April 2024

Growth is a function of the net accrual of resources by an organism. Energy and elemental contents of organisms are dynamically linked through their uptake and allocation to biomass production, yet we lack a full understanding of how these dynamics regulate growth rate. Here, we develop a multivariate imbalance framework, the growth efficiency hypothesis, linking organismal resource contents to growth and metabolic use efficiencies, and demonstrate its effectiveness in predicting consumer growth rates under elemental and food quantity limitation. The relative proportions of carbon (%C), nitrogen (%N), phosphorus (%P), and adenosine triphosphate (%ATP) in consumers differed markedly across resource limitation treatments. Differences in their resource composition were linked to systematic changes in stoichiometric use efficiencies, which served to maintain relatively consistent relationships between elemental and ATP content in consumer tissues and optimize biomass production. Overall, these adjustments were quantitatively linked to growth, enabling highly accurate predictions of consumer growth rates.
Influence of lipid bilayer on the structure of the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
Authors: Unwin Nigel
Published: April 2024

The muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is a transmitter-gated ion channel residing in the plasma membrane of electrocytes and striated muscle cells. It is present predominantly at synaptic junctions, where it effects rapid depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane in response to acetylcholine released into the synaptic cleft. Previously, cryo-EM of intact membrane fromTorpedorevealed that the lipid bilayer surrounding the junctional receptor has a uniquely asymmetric and ordered structure, due to a high concentration of cholesterol. It is now shown that this special lipid environment influences the transmembrane (TM) folding of the protein. All five submembrane MX helices of the membrane-intact junctional receptor align parallel to the surface of the cholesterol-ordered lipids in the inner leaflet of the bilayer; also, the TM helices in the outer leaflet are splayed apart. However in the structure obtained from the same protein after extraction and incorporation in nanodiscs, the MX helices do not align to a planar surface, and the TM helices arrange compactly in the outer leaflet. Realignment of the MX helices of the nanodisc-solved structure to a planar surface converts their adjoining TM helices into an obligatory splayed configuration, characteristic of the junctional receptor. Thus, the form of the receptor sustained by the special lipid environment of the synaptic junction is the one that mediates fast synaptic transmission; whereas, the nanodisc-embedded protein may be like the extrajunctional form, existing in a disordered lipid environment.
Engineering tertiary chirality in helical biopolymers
Authors: Janowski Jordan , Pham Van A. B. , Vecchioni Simon , Woloszyn Karol , Lu Brandon , Zou Yijia , Erkalo Betel , Perren Lara , Rueb Joe , Madnick Jesse , Mao Chengde , Saito Masahico , Ohayon Yoel P. , Jonoska Nataša , Sha Ruojie
Published: April 2024

Tertiary chirality describes the handedness of supramolecular assemblies and relies not only on the primary and secondary structures of the building blocks but also on topological driving forces that have been sparsely characterized. Helical biopolymers, especially DNA, have been extensively investigated as they possess intrinsic chirality that determines the optical, mechanical, and physical properties of the ensuing material. Here, we employ the DNA tensegrity triangle as a model system to locate the tipping points in chirality inversion at the tertiary level by X-ray diffraction. We engineer tensegrity triangle crystals with incremental rotational steps between immobile junctions from 3 to 28 base pairs (bp). We construct a mathematical model that accurately predicts and explains the molecular configurations in both this work and previous studies. Our design framework is extendable to other supramolecular assemblies of helical biopolymers and can be used in the design of chiral nanomaterials, optically active molecules, and mesoporous frameworks, all of which are of interest to physical, biological, and chemical nanoscience.
Indirect reciprocity undermines indirect reciprocity destabilizing large-scale cooperation
Authors: Schnell Eric , Muthukrishna Michael
Published: April 2024

Previous models suggest that indirect reciprocity (reputation) can stabilize large-scale human cooperation [K. Panchanathan, R. Boyd,
Nature
432
, 499–502 (2004)]. The logic behind these models and experiments [J. Gross
et al.
,
Sci. Adv.
9
, eadd8289 (2023) and O. P. Hauser, A. Hendriks, D. G. Rand, M. A. Nowak,
Sci. Rep.
6
, 36079 (2016)] is that a strategy in which individuals conditionally aid others based on their reputation for engaging in costly cooperative behavior serves as a punishment that incentivizes large-scale cooperation without the second-order free-rider problem. However, these models and experiments fail to account for individuals belonging to multiple groups with reputations that can be in conflict. Here, we extend these models such that individuals belong to a smaller, “local” group embedded within a larger, “global” group. This introduces competing strategies for conditionally aiding others based on their cooperative behavior in the local or global group. Our analyses reveal that the reputation for cooperation in the smaller local group can undermine cooperation in the larger global group, even when the theoretical maximum payoffs are higher in the larger global group. This model reveals that indirect reciprocity alone is insufficient for stabilizing large-scale human cooperation because cooperation at one scale can be considered defection at another. These results deepen the puzzle of large-scale human cooperation.
UDP-glycosyltransferases act as key determinants of host plant range in generalist and specialist
Spodoptera
species
Authors: Wang Huidong , Song Jing , Hunt Benjamin J. , Zuo Kairan , Zhou Huiru , Hayward Angela , Li Bingbing , Xiao Yajuan , Geng Xing , Bass Chris , Zhou Shutang
Published: April 2024

Phytophagous insects have evolved sophisticated detoxification systems to overcome the antiherbivore chemical defenses produced by many plants. However, how these biotransformation systems differ in generalist and specialist insect species and their role in determining insect host plant range remains an open question. Here, we show that UDP-glucosyltransferases (UGTs) play a key role in determining the host range of insect species within the
Spodoptera
genus. Comparative genomic analyses of
Spodoptera
species that differ in host plant breadth identified a relatively conserved number of UGT genes in generalist species but high levels of UGT gene pseudogenization in the specialist
Spodoptera picta
. CRISPR-Cas9 knockouts of the three main UGT gene clusters of
Spodoptera frugiperda
revealed that UGT33 genes play an important role in allowing this species to utilize the poaceous plants maize, wheat, and rice, while UGT40 genes facilitate utilization of cotton. Further functional analyses in vivo and in vitro identified the UGT SfUGT33F32 as the key mechanism that allows generalist
S. frugiperda
to detoxify the benzoxazinoid DIMBOA (2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-2H-1,4-benzoxazin-3(4H)-one), a potent insecticidal phytotoxin produced by poaceous plants. However, while this detoxification capacity is conserved in several generalist
Spodoptera
species,
Spodoptera picta
, which specializes on
Crinum
plants, is unable to detoxify DIMBOA due to a nonfunctionalizing mutation in
SpUGT33F34
. Collectively, these findings provide insight into the role of insect UGTs in host plant adaptation, the mechanistic basis of evolutionary transitions between generalism and specialism and offer molecular targets for controlling a group of notorious insect pests.
Nucleocytoplasmic transport rates are regulated by cellular processes that modulate GTP availability
Authors: Scott Kelsey L. , Halfmann Charles T. , Hoefakker Allison D. , Purkayastha Purboja , Wang Ting Ching , Lele Tanmay P. , Roux Kyle J.
Published: April 2024

Nucleocytoplasmic transport (NCT), the facilitated diffusion of cargo molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), enables numerous fundamental eukaryotic cellular processes. Ran GTPase uses cellular energy in the direct form of GTP to create a gradient across the nuclear envelope (NE) that drives the majority of NCT. We report here that changes in GTP availability resulting from altered cellular physiology modulate the rate of NCT, as monitored using synthetic and natural cargo, and the dynamics of Ran itself. Cell migration, cell spreading, and/or modulation of the cytoskeleton or its connection to the nucleus alter GTP availability and thus rates of NCT, regulating RNA export and protein synthesis. These findings support a model in which changes in cellular physiology that alter GTP availability can regulate the rate of NCT, impacting fundamental cellular processes that extensively utilize NCT.
Modeling the cell biology of monogenetic intestinal epithelial disorders
Authors: Kaji Izumi , Thiagarajah Jay R. , Goldenring James R.
Published: April 2024

Monogenetic variants are responsible for a range of congenital human diseases. Variants in genes that are important for intestinal epithelial function cause a group of disorders characterized by severe diarrhea and loss of nutrient absorption called congenital diarrheas and enteropathies (CODEs). CODE-causing genes include nutrient transporters, enzymes, structural proteins, and vesicular trafficking proteins in intestinal epithelial cells. Several severe CODE disorders result from the loss-of-function in key regulators of polarized endocytic trafficking such as the motor protein, Myosin VB (MYO5B), as well as STX3, STXBP2, and UNC45A. Investigations of the cell biology and pathophysiology following loss-of-function in these genes have led to an increased understanding of both homeostatic and pathological vesicular trafficking in intestinal epithelial cells. Modeling different CODEs through investigation of changes in patient tissues, coupled with the development of animal models and patient-derived enteroids, has provided critical insights into the enterocyte differentiation and function. Linking basic knowledge of cell biology with the phenotype of specific patient variants is a key step in developing effective treatments for rare monogenetic diseases. This knowledge can also be applied more broadly to our understanding of common epithelial disorders.
Dynamic laser ablation loading of a linear Paul trap
Authors: Li Lin , Li Zi , Hua Xia , Tong Xin
Published: April 2024

We present a detailed method for accumulating Ca+ ions controllably in a linear Paul trap. The ions are generated by pulsed laser ablation and dynamically loaded into the ion trap by switching the trapping potential on and off. The loaded ions are precooled by buffer gas and then laser-cooled to form Coulomb crystals for verifying quantity. The number of ions is controlled by manipulating the trapping potential of the ion trap, partial pressure of buffer gas and turn-on time of the entrance end cap voltage. With single-pulse laser ablation, the number of trapped ions ranges from tens to ten thousand. The kinetic energy of loaded ions can be selected via the optimal turn-on time of the entrance end cap. Using multiple-pulse laser ablation, the number is further increased and reaches about

4
×

10

4

. The dynamic loading method has wide application for accumulating low-yielding ions via laser ablation in the ion trap.
Large-area (50 cm × 50 cm) optically transparent electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding of ZTO/Ag/ZTO: an analytical/numerical and experimental study of optoelectrical and EMI shielding properties
Authors: Astarlioglu Aziz Taner , Oz Yahya , Unal Emre , Kilic Nail Bugra , Celikli Cenkay , Ozdemir Mehtap , Ozyuzer Lutfi , Demir Hilmi Volkan , Erdogan Nursev
Published: April 2024

Transparent conducting oxides (TCOs), exhibiting both high optical transparency and low electrical resistivity, are commonly employed in optoelectronic devices. However, acquiring a balance between these optical and electrical properties in a uniform way over large areas has been a pending challenge, which is essential to achieving optically transparent electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding surfaces. In this study, we propose and demonstrate a stratified thin film structure consisting of zinc-doped tin oxide (Zn2SnO4, ZTO) as TCO along with a metal layer of silver (Ag) deposited on a large area of 50 cm

×

50 cm polycarbonate (PC) substrate enabled by a scanning magnetron sputtering gun. We achieved high EMI shielding of 99.9% at the optical transparency of 68% in the visible spectrum by engineering the stratified architecture of ZTO/Ag/ZTO. The Ag layer of 18 nm in thickness with a sheet resistance of 10 Ω/sq yields shielding effectiveness (SE) of 27 dB in a wide frequency range of 2–20 GHz. The bottom and top ZTO layers, 20 and 40 nm thick, respectively, provide the lowest optical loss of 13% across 400–700 nm. The structure’s EMI shielding, optical and structural performances were systematically characterized through a free-space focused-beam system, UV–Vis spectrophotometer, ellipsometry, focused ion-beam cross-sectional sampling and imaging, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and secondary ion mass spectroscopy. EMI shielding and optical performances were validated by CST Microwave Studio and the transfer matrix method, respectively. These findings indicate that the proposed multi-layer architecture holds great promise for large-area EMI shielding and other optoelectronic applications.