bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EMIC Wave Energy Dissipation as a Source of O+ Conics and Warm Plasma Cloak in the Earth's Inner Magnetosphere
Authors: Gamayunov Konstantin V. , Kim Hyomin , Shin Youra
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on a specific source of the O+ conics and warm plasma cloak in the Earth's inner magnetosphere due to electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave energy dissipation. We analyze the EMIC wave event observed by Van Allen Probe‐A in the early afternoon off equatorial magnetosphere on 18 November 2015, where the two dominant EMIC wave bands, He+‐band and H+‐band, were observed for ∼4 min. All the wave and plasma parameters, the DC magnetic field, and ion distributions needed for our analysis are taken from the Van Allen Probe‐A observations during the event. The major results of our analysis are as follows. (a) The H+ and He+ heating by EMIC waves is negligible. (b) A strong heating of O+ by the wave energy dissipation around the third, fifth, and sixth harmonics of the O+ gyrofrequency is revealed, where the majority of energy dissipated goes into heating of O+ with the energies ≲100 eV and pitch angles ∼20°–90°. The estimated energy deposition rate is ∼0.1–3.4 eV/s per O+, totaling to the deposition of ∼20–800 eV per O+ during the event. (c) EMIC waves substantially contribute to the formation of O+ conics and warm plasma cloak by heating the upgoing low‐energy ionospheric O+ because waves heat ions with the energies and pitch angles that are characteristic of conics and warm plasma cloak, and the energy deposition per O+ is comparable to those characteristic energies.
Sensitivities of Spectral Optical Properties of Dust Aerosols to Their Mineralogical and Microphysical Properties
Authors: Zhang Yuheng , Saito Masanori , Yang Ping , Schuster Gregory , Trepte Charles
Published: May 2024

Dust aerosol is a key component in global radiative forcing and climate modeling. We developed a mineralogy‐resolved spectral optical property model for dust aerosols. The model incorporates nine mineral groups and applies the effective medium methods to obtain the spectral complex refractive indices of inhomogeneous dust particles. This study considers 5,000 sets of dust mineral composition mixtures along with the use of the bimodal particle size distribution. We calculate the bulk properties of these samples in a wide spectral range from 0.2 to 50 μm using a comprehensive database of hexahedral dust single‐scattering properties. Through sensitivity analyses, this study reveals that the illite and hematite components substantially affect the optical properties of dust. Furthermore, the effective radii of both the fine‐mode and the coarse‐mode dust particles have significant impacts on the bulk optical properties, albeit to varying degrees.
Examination of Vorticity and Divergence on a Rotating Turbulent Convection Model of Jupiter's Polar Vortices
Authors: Cai Tao
Published: May 2024

The correlation between divergence and vorticity has traditionally served as a signature of convection in rotating fluids. While this correlation has been observed in the JIRAM brightness temperature data for Jupiter's polar vortices, it is notably absent in the JIRAM images. This discrepancy presents a new challenge in determining whether this correlation can serve as a reliable signature of convection in rapidly rotating atmospheres. In this study, we analyzed data from a three‐dimensional simulation of Jupiter's polar vortices using a deep convection model. Our findings confirm the theoretical prediction of a negative correlation between divergence and vorticity in the northern hemisphere. Interestingly, this correlation is weaker within the cyclones compared to outside them. The skewness of upflows and downflows plays an important role in this negative correlation. We also observed that the correlation varies with height, being strongest near the interface and decaying away from it. The correlation diminishes when the resolution is reduced. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the geostrophic approximation may not be suitable for the Jovian atmosphere, particularly in the stable layer. Both tilting and stretching effects contribute to the material derivative of vorticity, with the tilting effect dominating in the unstable layer and the stretching effect prevailing in the stable layer. This suggests a transfer of vorticity from the convectively unstable layer to the stable layer. Consistent with observations, we also noted an upscale energy transfer from smaller to larger scales.
The 3D Crustal Structure in the Epicentral Region of the 1980, Mw 6.9, Southern Apennines Earthquake (Southern Italy): New Constraints From the Integration of Seismic Exploration Data, Deep Wells, and Local Earthquake Tomography
Authors: Feriozzi F. , Improta L. , Maesano F. E. , De Gori P. , Basili R.
Published: May 2024

We present the first 3D crustal model of the epicentral region of the 1980, Mw 6.9, normal‐faulting Irpinia earthquake (southern Italy) determined by jointly interpreting the CROP‐04 deep seismic profile, a grid of commercial seismic lines, deep exploration wells, and a high‐resolution Local Earthquake Tomography. Despite numerous seismotectonic surveys and source studies of the background seismicity recorded by dense networks, a complete 3D geological model of the mid‐upper crust was still lacking in the region. The architecture of the Neogene fold‐and‐thrust belt is also debated, with competing thin‐ and thick‐skinned tectonic interpretations. We use the 3D geological model derived from subsurface exploration data to interpret the upper crustal tomographic velocities in terms of rock physical properties, while Vp and Vp/Vs anomalies provide inferences on the deep structural setting down to 12 km depth. We find that a thick‐skinned deformation style allows explaining the geometry of Pliocene fold‐and‐thrust systems deforming the Apulian carbonates but also deeper Permo‐Triassic metasediments and the Paleozoic crystalline femic basement. Inherited compressional structures and lithological heterogeneities control background seismicity occurring at two crustal levels. Fluid‐driven shallow seismicity (<4–6 km) concentrates in a high‐Vp/Vs wedge of fractured, brine‐saturated Mesozoic stiff rocks delimited by the 1980 earthquake faults. Deep seismicity (9–14 km) clusters instead within the low‐Vp/Vs crystalline basement underneath the Apulian carbonate ramp‐anticlines. Commercial seismic data allow us to identify the Irpinia Fault, the main fault ruptured by the 1980 earthquake, reinforcing its previous interpretations as an immature structure with subtle geological and geophysical evidence.
The Secret to Mimicking Natural Faults? Plexiglass and Teflon
Authors: Derouin Sarah
Published: May 2024

Researchers found an effective way to produce natural fault behavior in the laboratory.
Tiny Satellites Can Provide Significant Information About Space
Authors: Owen Rebecca
Published: May 2024

Students and faculty at the University of Colorado Boulder use CubeSats to learn more about the near-Earth environment.
Precipitation Seasonality Amplifies as Earth Warms
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Luo Ming , Song Fengfei , Wu Sijia , Chen Yongqin David , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

Precipitation exhibits a pronounced seasonal cycle, of which the phase and amplitude are closely associated with water resource management. While previous studies suggested an emerged delaying phase in the past decades, whether the amplified amplitude has emerged is controversial. Using multiple observational data sets and climate simulations, here we show that the amplification of precipitation annual cycle has emerged in most global land areas since the 1980s, especially in the tropics. These amplifications are mainly driven by anthropogenic emissions, and will be further intensified by 17.6% in the future (2081–2100) under high emission scenario (Shared Socioeconomic Pathways, SSP585), and limited to 7.2% under SSP126 scenario, relative to the historical period (1982–2014). Precipitation seasonality will be amplified by 4.2% for each 1°C of global warming, which is seen in all emission scenarios. The mitigation of lower emissions is helpful for alleviating the amplification of precipitation seasonality in a warming world.
AirCore Observations at Northern Tibetan Plateau During the Asian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Yi You , Cai Zhaonan , Liu Yi , Tao Mengchu , Fang Shuangxi , Yang Dongxu , Bai Zhixuan , Liang Miao , Yao Bo , Bian Jianchun , Honomichl Shawn B. , Randel William J. , Pan Laura L.
Published: May 2024

We present data and analysis of a set of balloon‐borne sounding profiles, which includes co‐located O3, CO, CH4, and particles, over the northern Tibetan Plateau during an Asian summer monsoon (ASM) season. These novel measurements shed light on the ASM transport behavior near the northern edge of the anticyclone. Joint analyses of these species with the temperature and wind profiles and supported by back trajectory modeling identify three distinct transport processes that dominate the vertical chemical structure in the middle troposphere, upper troposphere (UT), and the tropopause region. The correlated changes in profile structures in the middle troposphere highlight the influence of the strong westerly jet. Elevated constituent concentrations in the UT identify the main level of convective transport at the upstream source regions. Observed higher altitude maxima for CH4 characterize the airmasses' continued ascent following convection. These data complement constituent observations from other parts of the ASM anticyclone.
Ground‐Based Observations of 337 nm and 777 nm Optical Emissions Produced by Lightning
Authors: Roncancio José A. , Montanyà Joan , López Jesús A. , Urbani Michele , van der Velde Oscar A. , Arcanjo Marcelo
Published: May 2024

Lightning flashes were observed in Barrancabermeja (Colombia) by two photometers centered at 337 and 777 nm wavelengths, a high‐speed camera, and the Colombia Lightning Mapping Array. Both optical and VHF radio emissions of different lightning processes are investigated. Flash initiations by upward in‐cloud breakdown present a first short optical pulse followed by a period of ∼1 kHz breakdown propagation. The ratio remains at unity or below, associated with the transition to negative horizontal leader propagation. In flash initiations by a fast‐stepped negative downward leader to ground, a dominance of the 337 nm radiance is found. Observations of downward leaders before ground strokes reveal that the luminosity measured by the photometers is dominated most of the time by the light coming from the cloud and not from the visible leader channels. One case of a visible cloud‐to‐ground channel with positive continuing current shows a high similarity in the evolution of the luminosity along the channel, 777 nm radiance, and the energy detected by the Geostationary Lightning Mapper from space. Finally, two types of recoil leaders have been observed: connecting and non‐connecting. Whereas the measured 777 nm peak radiance is similar in both types of recoil leaders, connecting recoil leaders present about seven times higher 337 nm peak radiance. Our observations generally show agreement between the VHF power and optical emissions.
Sinensetin protects against periodontitis through binding to Bach1 enhancing its ubiquitination degradation and improving oxidative stress
Authors: Yuan Zhiyao , Li Junjie , Xiao Fuyu , Wu Yu , Zhang Zhiting , Shi Jiahong , Qian Jun , Wu Xudong , Yan Fuhua
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory and immune reactive disease induced by the subgingival biofilm. The therapeutic effect for susceptible patients is often unsatisfactory due to excessive inflammatory response and oxidative stress. Sinensetin (Sin) is a nature polymethoxylated flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Our study aimed to explore the beneficial effect of Sin on periodontitis and the specific molecular mechanisms. We found that Sin attenuated oxidative stress and inflammatory levels of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) under inflammatory conditions. Administered Sin to rats with ligation-induced periodontitis models exhibited a protective effect against periodontitis in vivo. By molecular docking, we identified Bach1 as a strong binding target of Sin, and this binding was further verified by cellular thermal displacement assay and immunofluorescence assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative polymerase chain reaction results also revealed that Sin obstructed the binding of Bach1 to the HMOX1 promoter, subsequently upregulating the expression of the key antioxidant factor HO-1. Further functional experiments with Bach1 knocked down and overexpressed verified Bach1 as a key target for Sin to exert its antioxidant effects. Additionally, we demonstrated that Sin prompted the reduction of Bach1 by potentiating the ubiquitination degradation of Bach1, thereby inducing HO-1 expression and inhibiting oxidative stress. Overall, Sin could be a promising drug candidate for the treatment of periodontitis by targeting binding to Bach1.
Reduction of APOE accounts for neurobehavioral deficits in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Hwang Hye M. , Yamashita Satoshi , Matsumoto Yu , Ito Mariko , Edwards Alex , Sasaki Junko , Dutta Dipankar J. , Mohammad Shahid , Yamashita Chiho , Wetherill Leah , Schwantes-An Tae-Hwi , Abreu Marco , Mahnke Amanda H. , Mattson Sarah N. , Foroud Tatiana , Miranda Rajesh C. , Chambers Christina , Torii Masaaki , Hashimoto-Torii Kazue
Published: May 2024

A hallmark of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) is neurobehavioral deficits that still do not have effective treatment. Here, we present that reduction of Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is critically involved in neurobehavioral deficits in FASD. We show that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) changes chromatin accessibility ofApoelocus, and causes reduction of APOE levels in both the brain and peripheral blood in postnatal mice. Of note, postnatal administration of an APOE receptor agonist (APOE-RA) mitigates motor learning deficits and anxiety in those mice. Several molecular and electrophysiological properties essential for learning, which are altered by PAE, are restored by APOE-RA. Our human genome-wide association study further reveals that the interaction of PAE and a single nucleotide polymorphism in theAPOEenhancer which chromatin is closed by PAE in mice is associated with lower scores in the delayed matching-to-sample task in children. APOE in the plasma is also reduced in PAE children, and the reduced level is associated with their lower cognitive performance. These findings suggest that controlling the APOE level can serve as an effective treatment for neurobehavioral deficits in FASD.
Phosphorylation of FOXK2 at Thr13 and Ser30 by PDK2 sustains glycolysis through a positive feedback manner in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhang Cancan , Xu Yinyin , Zhu Xinyue , Zhang Xueli , Wang Fengmian , Hu Lipeng , Lu Huan , Tao Chunlin , Xu Kai , Zhang Zhigang , Li Dongxue , Shi Tingyan , Zhang Rong
Published: May 2024

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignant tumors with insidious onset, strong invasiveness, and poor prognosis. Metabolic alteration, particularly aerobic glycolysis, which is tightly regulated by transcription factors, is associated with the malignant behavior of OC. We screened FOXK2 in this study as a key transcription factor that regulates glycolysis in OC. FOXK2 is overly expressed in OC, and poor prognosis is predicted by overexpression. FOXK2 promotes OC cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo and cell migration in vitro. Further studies showed that PDK2 directly binds to the forkhead-associated (FHA) domain of FOXK2 to phosphorylate FOXK2 at Thr13 and Ser30, thereby enhancing the transcriptional activity of FOXK2. FOXK2 transcriptionally regulates the expression of PDK2, thus forming positive feedback to sustain glycolysis in OC cells.
Elevated SCN11A concentrations associated with lower serum lipid levels in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Xu Ke , Zhao Shuang , Ren Yi , Zhong Qi , Feng Jinzhou , Tu Dianji , Wu Wentao , Wang Jiaolin , Chen Jianjun , Xie Peng
Published: May 2024

The pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD) involves lipid metabolism. Our earlier research also revealed that MDD patients had much lower total cholesterol (TC) concentrations than healthy controls (HCs). However, it is still unclear why TC decreased in MDD. Here, based on the Ingenuity Knowledge Base’s ingenuity pathway analysis, we found that sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 11A (SCN11A) might serve as a link between low lipid levels and MDD. We analyzed the TC levels and used ELISA kits to measure the levels of SCN11A in the serum from 139 MDD patients, and 65 HCs to confirm this theory and explore the potential involvement of SCN11A in MDD. The findings revealed that TC levels were considerably lower and SCN11A levels were remarkably increased in MDD patients than those in HCs, while they were significantly reversed in drug-treatment MDD patients than in drug-naïve MDD patients. There was no significant difference in SCN11A levels among MDD patients who used single or multiple antidepressants, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or other antidepressants. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the levels of TC and SCN11A were linked with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scales score. A substantial association was also found between TC and SCN11A. Moreover, a discriminative model made up of SCN11A was discovered, which produced an area under a curve of 0.9571 in the training set and 0.9357 in the testing set. Taken together, our findings indicated that SCN11A may serve as a link between low lipid levels and MDD, and showed promise as a candidate biomarker for MDD.
UK guidelines for the management of soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Hayes Andrew J. , Nixon Ioanna F. , Strauss Dirk C. , Seddon Beatrice M. , Desai Anant , Benson Charlotte , Judson Ian R. , Dangoor Adam
Published: May 2024

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare tumours arising in mesenchymal tissues and can occur almost anywhere in the body. Their rarity, and the heterogeneity of subtype and location, means that developing evidence-based guidelines is complicated by the limitations of the data available. This makes it more important that STS are managed by expert multidisciplinary teams, to ensure consistent and optimal treatment, recruitment to clinical trials, and the ongoing accumulation of further data and knowledge. The development of appropriate guidance, by an experienced panel referring to the evidence available, is therefore a useful foundation on which to build progress in the field. These guidelines are an update of the previous versions published in 2010 and 2016 [1, 2]. The original guidelines were drawn up by a panel of UK sarcoma specialists convened under the auspices of the British Sarcoma Group (BSG) and were intended to provide a framework for the multidisciplinary care of patients with soft tissue sarcomas. This iteration of the guidance, as well as updating the general multidisciplinary management of soft tissue sarcoma, includes specific sections relating to the management of sarcomas at defined anatomical sites: gynaecological sarcomas, retroperitoneal sarcomas, breast sarcomas, and skin sarcomas. These are generally managed collaboratively by site specific multidisciplinary teams linked to the regional sarcoma specialist team, as stipulated in the recently published sarcoma service specification [3]. In the UK, any patient with a suspected soft tissue sarcoma should be referred to a specialist regional soft tissues sarcoma service, to be managed by a specialist sarcoma multidisciplinary team. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed using appropriate imaging and a tissue biopsy, the main modality of management is usually surgical excision performed by a specialist surgeon, combined with pre- or post-operative radiotherapy for tumours at higher risk for local recurrence. Systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) may be utilised in cases where the histological subtype is considered more sensitive to systemic treatment. Regular follow-up is recommended to assess local control, development of metastatic disease, and any late effects of treatment.
Targeting KRASG12D mutation in non-small cell lung cancer: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential
Authors: Tang Yining , Pu Xi , Yuan Xiao , Pang Zhonghao , Li Feng , Wang Xu
Published: May 2024

Lung malignant tumors are a type of cancer with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for over 80% of all lung malignant tumors, and most patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to poor prognosis. Over the past decades, various oncogenic driver alterations associated with lung cancer have been identified, each of which can potentially serve as a therapeutic target. Rat sarcoma (RAS) genes are the most commonly mutated oncogenes in human cancers, with Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) being the most common subtype. The role of KRAS oncogene in NSCLC is still not fully understood, and its impact on prognosis remains controversial. Despite the significant advancements in targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) that have transformed the treatment landscape of advanced NSCLC in recent years, targeting KRAS (both directly and indirectly) remains challenging and is still under intensive research. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development of targeted drugs targeting the NSCLC KRASG12C mutant subtype. However, research progress on target drugs for the more common KRASG12D subtype has been slow, and currently, no specific drugs have been approved for clinical use, and many questions remain to be answered, such as the mechanisms of resistance in this subtype of NSCLC, how to better utilize combination strategies with multiple treatment modalities, and whether KRASG12D inhibitors offer substantial efficacy in the treatment of advanced NSCLC patients.
RIPK1 protects naive and regulatory T cells from TNFR1-induced apoptosis
Authors: Huysentruyt Jelle , Steels Wolf , Ruiz Perez Mario , Verstraeten Bruno , Vadi Mike , Divert Tatyana , Flies Kayleigh , Takahashi Nozomi , Lambrecht Bart N. , Declercq Wim , Vanden Berghe Tom , Maelfait Jonathan , Vandenabeele Peter , Tougaard Peter
Published: May 2024

The T cell population size is stringently controlled before, during, and after immune responses, as improper cell death regulation can result in autoimmunity and immunodeficiency. RIPK1 is an important regulator of peripheral T cell survival and homeostasis. However, whether different peripheral T cell subsets show a differential requirement for RIPK1 and which programmed cell death pathway they engage in vivo remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that conditional ablation of Ripk1 in conventional T cells (Ripk1ΔCD4) causes peripheral T cell lymphopenia, as witnessed by a profound loss of naive CD4+, naive CD8+, and FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. Interestingly, peripheral naive CD8+ T cells in Ripk1ΔCD4 mice appear to undergo a selective pressure to retain RIPK1 expression following activation. Mixed bone marrow chimeras revealed a competitive survival disadvantage for naive, effector, and memory T cells lacking RIPK1. Additionally, tamoxifen-induced deletion of RIPK1 in CD4-expressing cells in adult life confirmed the importance of RIPK1 in post-thymic survival of CD4+ T cells. Ripk1K45A mice showed no change in peripheral T cell subsets, demonstrating that the T cell lymphopenia was due to the scaffold function of RIPK1 rather than to its kinase activity. Enhanced numbers of Ripk1ΔCD4 naive T cells expressed the proliferation marker Ki-67+ despite the peripheral lymphopenia and single-cell RNA sequencing revealed T cell-specific transcriptomic alterations that were reverted by additional caspase-8 deficiency. Furthermore, Ripk1ΔCD4Casp8 ΔCD4 and Ripk1ΔCD4Tnfr1−/− double-knockout mice rescued the peripheral T cell lymphopenia, revealing that RIPK1-deficient naive CD4+ and CD8+ cells and FoxP3+ regulatory T cells specifically die from TNF- and caspase-8-mediated apoptosis in vivo. Altogether, our findings emphasize the essential role of RIPK1 as a scaffold in maintaining the peripheral T cell compartment and preventing TNFR1-induced apoptosis.
Ocular biomarkers: useful incidental findings by deep learning algorithms in fundus photographs
Authors: Martin Eve , Cook Angus G. , Frost Shaun M. , Turner Angus W. , Chen Fred K. , McAllister Ian L. , Nolde Janis M. , Schlaich Markus P.
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives

Artificial intelligence can assist with ocular image analysis for screening and diagnosis, but it is not yet capable of autonomous full-spectrum screening. Hypothetically, false-positive results may have unrealized screening potential arising from signals persisting despite training and/or ambiguous signals such as from biomarker overlap or high comorbidity. The study aimed to explore the potential to detect clinically useful incidental ocular biomarkers by screening fundus photographs of hypertensive adults using diabetic deep learning algorithms.

Subjects/Methods

Patients referred for treatment-resistant hypertension were imaged at a hospital unit in Perth, Australia, between 2016 and 2022. The same 45° colour fundus photograph selected for each of the 433 participants imaged was processed by three deep learning algorithms. Two expert retinal specialists graded all false-positive results for diabetic retinopathy in non-diabetic participants.

Results

Of the 29 non-diabetic participants misclassified as positive for diabetic retinopathy, 28 (97%) had clinically useful retinal biomarkers. The models designed to screen for fewer diseases captured more incidental disease. All three algorithms showed a positive correlation between severity of hypertensive retinopathy and misclassified diabetic retinopathy.

Conclusions

The results suggest that diabetic deep learning models may be responsive to hypertensive and other clinically useful retinal biomarkers within an at-risk, hypertensive cohort. Observing that models trained for fewer diseases captured more incidental pathology increases confidence in signalling hypotheses aligned with using self-supervised learning to develop autonomous comprehensive screening. Meanwhile, non-referable and false-positive outputs of other deep learning screening models could be explored for immediate clinical use in other populations.
Development of a kidney microphysiological system hardware platform for microgravity studies
Authors: Jones-Isaac Kendan A. , Lidberg Kevin A. , Yeung Catherine K. , Yang Jade , Bain Jacelyn , Ruiz Micaela , Koenig Greta , Koenig Paul , Countryman Stefanie , Himmelfarb Jonathan , Kelly Edward J.
Published: May 2024

Determining the physiological effects of microgravity on the human kidney is limited to relatively insensitive tests of biofluids (blood and urine) that do not return abnormal results until more than 50% of kidney function is lost. We have developed an “organ on chip” microphysiological model of the human kidney proximal tubule (PT-MPS) that can recapitulate many kidney functions and disease states and could play a critical role in determining mechanisms of early kidney dysfunction in microgravity. However, the ground-based PT-MPS system is incompatible with spaceflight as it requires a large pneumatic system coupled to a cell incubator for perfusion and intensive hand-on manipulation. Herein, we report the hardware engineering and performance of the Kidney Chip Perfusion Platform (KCPP), a small, advanced, semi-autonomous hardware platform to support kidney microphysiological model experiments in microgravity. The KCPP is composed of five components, the kidney MPS, the MPS housing and valve block, media cassettes, fixative cassettes, and the programable precision syringe pump. The system has been deployed twice to the ISSNL (aboard CRS-17 and CRS-22). From each set of ISSNL experiments and ground-based controls, we were able to recover PT-MPS effluent for biomarker analysis and RNA suitable for transcriptomics analysis demonstrating the usability and functionality of the KCPP.
MXene-based flexible electronic materials for wound infection detection and treatment
Authors: Hu Yanling , Wang Fangfang , Ye Hui , Jiang Jingai , Li Shengke , Dai Baoying , Li Jiahui , Yang Jun , Song Xuejiao , Zhang Junjie , Xie Yannan , Gao Li , Yang Dongliang
Published: May 2024

Wound infection is a worldwide health issue that not only brings large detrimental effects to people’s physical and mental health, but also causes substantial economic burdens to society. By using traditional surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy, patients generally suffer more pain and are at risk of recurring infections. Thus, the development of non-antibiotic treatment methods is desperately needed. Currently, the emerging of flexible wound dressings with physiological signal detection, inactivated infectious pathogen, and wound-healing promoting properties has exhibited immense potential for the treatment of infected wound. Among various dressings, MXene‐based flexible electronic materials as wound dressings with special electroactive, mechanical, photophysical, and biological performances possess a broad application prospect in healthcare. In this review, the challenges of infected wound management are introduced. Next, the types of MXene-based flexible materials and wound infection features are outlined. Then the recent advance of MXene-based flexible materials for infected wound detection and treatment is summarized. Lastly, the predicaments, prospects, and future directions of MXene-based flexible materials for infected wound management are discussed.
Arthritis is associated with high nutritional risk among older Canadian adults from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Bennett Roxanne , Demmers Thea A. , Plourde Hugues , Arrey Kim , Armour Beth , Ferland Guylaine , Kakinami Lisa
Published: May 2024

This study assessed the association between arthritis, functional impairment, and nutritional risk (NR). Cross-sectional data were from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a nationally representative sample of 45–85-year-old community-dwelling Canadians (n = 41,153). The abbreviated Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluating for Eating and Nutrition II (SCREEN II-AB) Questionnaire determined NR scores (continuous), and high NR (score < 38); the Older American Resources and Services scale measured functional impairment. NR scores and status (low/high) were modelled using multiple linear and logistic regressions, respectively. Analyses adjusted for demographic characteristics, functional impairment, and health (body mass index, self-rated general and mental health). Additional analyses stratified the models by functional impairment. People with arthritis had poorer NR scores (B: − 0.35, CI − 0.48, − 0.22; p < 0.05) and increased risks of high NR (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.06, 1.17). Among those with functional impairment, the likelihood of high NR was 31% higher in people with arthritis compared to those without arthritis (95% CI 1.12, 1.53). Among those with no functional impairment, the likelihood of high NR was 10% higher in people with arthritis compared to those without (95% CI 1.04, 1.16). These relationships differed based on the type of arthritis. Arthritis is associated with high NR in community-dwelling older adults, both with and without functional impairment. Findings highlight the need for further research on these relationships to inform interventions and improve clinical practices.
Clinical predictive value of the age, creatinine, and ejection fraction score in patients in acute type A aortic dissection after total arch replacement
Authors: Lin Xin-fan , Xie Lin-feng , Zhang Zhao-feng , Wu Qing-song , Qiu Zhi-huang , Chen Liang-wan
Published: May 2024

The age, creatinine, and ejection fraction (ACEF) score has been accepted as a predictor of poor outcome in elective operations. This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of ACEF score in acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) patients after total arch replacement. A total of 227 AAAD patients from July 2021 and June 2022 were enrolled and divided into Tertiles 1 (ACEF ≤ 0.73), Tertiles 2 (0.73 < ACEF ≤ 0.95), and Tertiles 3 (ACEF > 0.95). Using inverse probability processing weighting (IPTW) to balance the baseline characteristics and compare the outcomes. Cox logistic regression was used to further evaluate the survival prediction ability of ACEF score. The in-hospital mortality was 9.8%. After IPTW, in the baseline characteristics reached an equilibrium, a higher ACEF score before operation still associated with higher in-hospital mortality. After 1 year follow-up, 184 patients (90.6%) survival. Multivariable analysis revealed that ACEF score (adjusted hazard ratio  1.68; 95% confidence interval 1.34–4.91; p = 0.036) and binary ACEF score (adjusted HR 2.26; 95% CI 1.82–6.20; p < 0.001) was independently associated with 1-year survival. In addition, net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated differentiation improvement (IDI) verified that the ACEF score and binary ACEF score is an accurate predictive tool in clinical settings. In conclusions, ACEF score could be considered as a useful tool to risk stratification in patients with AAAD before operation in daily clinical work.
Effectiveness of edoxaban in portal vein thrombosis associated with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Tadokoro Tomoko , Tani Joji , Manabe Takushi , Takuma Kei , Nakahara Mai , Oura Kyoko , Mimura Shima , Fujita Koji , Nomura Takako , Morishita Asahiro , Kobara Hideki , Himoto Takashi , Ono Masafumi , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: May 2024

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) worsens the long-term prognosis of patients with cirrhosis; however, the optimal treatment remains to be determined. Reports on the efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants are increasing, and further evidence is needed. Therefore, we investigated the effectiveness of treatment with edoxaban in patients with PVT. We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of edoxaban and warfarin as antithrombotic therapies for PVT. The median overall survival time was 4.2 years in patients with PVT, with a 1-year survival rate of 70.7% and a 5-year survival rate of 47.9%. The leading cause of death was hepatocellular carcinoma. The overall response rate for thrombolysis in the edoxaban group was 76.7% compared to 29.4% in the warfarin group, and edoxaban significantly improved PVT compared to warfarin. In addition, edoxaban provided long-term improvement of PVT. Warfarin, on the other hand, was temporarily effective but did not provide long-term benefits. The Child–Pugh and albumin-bilirubin scores did not change after edoxaban or warfarin use. No deaths occurred due to adverse events associated with edoxaban or warfarin. Edoxaban as a single agent can achieve long-term recanalization without compromising the hepatic reserves. Edoxaban is easy to initiate, even in an outpatient setting, and could become a major therapeutic agent for the treatment of PVT.
Investigating a hybrid extreme learning machine coupled with Dingo Optimization Algorithm for modeling liquefaction triggering in sand-silt mixtures
Authors: Hameed Mohammed Majeed , Masood Adil , Srivastava Aman , Abd Rahman Norinah , Mohd Razali Siti Fatin , Salem Ali , Elbeltagi Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Liquefaction is a devastating consequence of earthquakes that occurs in loose, saturated soil deposits, resulting in catastrophic ground failure. Accurate prediction of such geotechnical parameter is crucial for mitigating hazards, assessing risks, and advancing geotechnical engineering. This study introduces a novel predictive model that combines Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) with Dingo Optimization Algorithm (DOA) to estimate strain energy-based liquefaction resistance. The hybrid model (ELM-DOA) is compared with the classical ELM, Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System with Fuzzy C-Means (ANFIS-FCM model), and Sub-clustering (ANFIS-Sub model). Also, two data pre-processing scenarios are employed, namely traditional linear and non-linear normalization. The results demonstrate that non-linear normalization significantly enhances the prediction performance of all models by approximately 25% compared to linear normalization. Furthermore, the ELM-DOA model achieves the most accurate predictions, exhibiting the lowest root mean square error (484.286 J/m3), mean absolute percentage error (24.900%), mean absolute error (404.416 J/m3), and the highest correlation of determination (0.935). Additionally, a Graphical User Interface (GUI) has been developed, specifically tailored for the ELM-DOA model, to assist engineers and researchers in maximizing the utilization of this predictive model. The GUI provides a user-friendly platform for easy input of data and accessing the model's predictions, enhancing its practical applicability. Overall, the results strongly support the proposed hybrid model with GUI serving as an effective tool for assessing soil liquefaction resistance in geotechnical engineering, aiding in predicting and mitigating liquefaction hazards.
Study on microstructure and mechanical properties of 3003 aluminum alloy joints brazed with Al–Si–Cu–Ni paste brazing materials
Authors: Gao Zeng , Jin Xiwei , Li Shuaiqi , Zhang Zhen , Niu Jitai , Brnic Josip
Published: May 2024

Paste-type brazing materials have advantages such as adjusting the complexity of the parts to be soldered, easy storage and production in certain quantities. They can be used for brazing heat exchangers, liquid tanks and corrosion resistant parts. In this work, the microstructures and thermal behaviors of Al–Si–Cu–Ni brazing materials with different contents were investigated, and the effect of brazing process on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of brazed joints produced under nitrogen-filled environment was examined. It was found that the melting temperature of brazing material Al–5Si–20.5Cu–2Ni were ranged from 512.86 to 549.37 °C. The microstructure of Al–5Si–20.5Cu–2Ni consisted of α-Al solid solution, CuAl2 intermetallic compounds, the Al–Si–Cu phase, and some fine irregular Si particles in a homogenous manner. The microstructure of the brazed joints was uniformly formed during the brazing condition of 580 °C for 20 min, and the shear strength of the joints reached 41.76 MPa.
Gait classification for growing children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Vandekerckhove Ines , Papageorgiou Eirini , Hanssen Britta , De Beukelaer Nathalie , Van den Hauwe Marleen , Goemans Nathalie , Van Campenhout Anja , De Waele Liesbeth , De Groote Friedl , Desloovere Kaat
Published: May 2024

Classifying gait patterns into homogeneous groups could enhance communication among healthcare providers, clinical decision making and clinical trial designs in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Sutherland’s classification has been developed 40 years ago. Ever since, the state-of-the-art medical care has improved and boys with DMD are now longer ambulatory. Therefore, the gait classification requires an update. The overall aim was to develop an up-to-date, valid DMD gait classification. A total of 137 three-dimensional gait analysis sessions were collected in 30 boys with DMD, aged 4.6–17 years. Three classes were distinguished, which only partly aligned with increasing severity of gait deviations. Apart from the mildly affected pattern, two more severely affected gait patterns were found, namely the tiptoeing pattern and the flexion pattern with distinct anterior pelvic tilt and posterior trunk leaning, which showed most severe deviations at the ankle or at the proximal segments/joints, respectively. The agreement between Sutherland’s and the current classification was low, suggesting that gait pathology with the current state-of-the-art medical care has changed. However, overlap between classes, especially between the two more affected classes, highlights the complexity of the continuous gait changes. Therefore, caution is required when classifying individual boys with DMD into classes.
Examining health apps and wearable use in improving physical and mental well-being across U.S., China, and Singapore
Authors: Lee Edmund W. J. , Bao Huanyu , Wu Yongda S. , Wang Man Ping , Wong Yi Jie , Viswanath K.
Published: May 2024

Health apps and wearables are touted to improve physical health and mental well-being. However, it is unclear from existing research the extent to which these health technologies are efficacious in improving physical and mental well-being at a population level, particularly for the underserved groups from the perspective of health equity and social determinants. Also, it is unclear if the relationship between health apps and wearables use and physical and mental well-being differs across individualistic, collectivistic, and a mix of individual–collectivistic cultures. A large-scale online survey was conducted in the U.S. (individualist culture), China (collectivist culture), and Singapore (mix of individual–collectivist culture) using quota sampling after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB-2021-262) of Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. There was a total of 1004 respondents from the U.S., 1072 from China, and 1017 from Singapore. Data were analyzed using multiple regression and negative binomial regression. The study found that income consistently had the strongest relationship with physical and mental well-being measures in all three countries, while the use of health apps and wearables only had a moderate association with psychological well-being only in the US. Health apps and wearables were associated with the number of times people spent exercising and some mental health outcomes in China and Singapore, but they were only positively associated with psychological well-being in the US. The study emphasizes the importance of considering the social determinants, social–cultural context of the population, and the facilitating conditions for the effective use of digital health technologies. The study suggests that the combined use of both health apps and wearables is most strongly associated with better physical and mental health, though this association is less pronounced when individuals use only apps or wearables.
Performance investigation of epilepsy detection from noisy EEG signals using base-2-meta stacking classifier
Authors: Islam Torikul , Islam Redwanul , Basak Monisha , Roy Amit Dutta , Arman Md. Adil , Paul Samanta , Shandra Oleksii , Ali Sk. Rahat
Published: May 2024

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease, characterized by spontaneous, unprovoked, recurrent seizures that may lead to long-term disability and premature death. Despite significant efforts made to improve epilepsy detection clinically and pre-clinically, the pervasive presence of noise in EEG signals continues to pose substantial challenges to their effective application. In addition, discriminant features for epilepsy detection have not been investigated yet. The objective of this study is to develop a hybrid model for epilepsy detection from noisy and fragmented EEG signals. We hypothesized that a hybrid model could surpass existing single models in epilepsy detection. Our approach involves manual noise rejection and a novel statistical channel selection technique to detect epilepsy even from noisy EEG signals. Our proposed Base-2-Meta stacking classifier achieved notable accuracy (0.98 ± 0.05), precision (0.98 ± 0.07), recall (0.98 ± 0.05), and F1 score (0.98 ± 0.04) even with noisy 5-s segmented EEG signals. Application of our approach to the specific problem like detection of epilepsy from noisy and fragmented EEG data reveals a performance that is not only superior to others, but also is translationally relevant, highlighting its potential application in a clinic setting, where EEG signals are often noisy or scanty. Our proposed metric DF-A (Discriminant feature-accuracy), for the first time, identified the most discriminant feature with models that give A accuracy or above (A = 95 used in this study). This groundbreaking approach allows for detecting discriminant features and can be used as potential electrographic biomarkers in epilepsy detection research. Moreover, our study introduces innovative insights into the understanding of these features, epilepsy detection, and cross-validation, markedly improving epilepsy detection in ways previously unavailable.
Contrasting magma chemistry in the Candelaria IOCG district caused by changing tectonic regimes
Authors: Romero R. , Barra F. , Reich M. , Ojeda A. , Tapia M. J. , del Real I. , Simon A.
Published: May 2024

Iron oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) deposits are a vital source of copper and critical elements for emerging clean technologies. Andean-type IOCG deposits form in continental arcs undergoing extension, and they have a temporal relationship with magmatism although they do not exhibit a close spatial relation with the causative intrusions. The processes required to form IOCG deposits and their potential connections to iron oxide–apatite (IOA)-type mineralization remain poorly constrained, as well as the characteristics of magmatism linked to both deposit types. Here we combine zircon U–Pb geochronology with zircon trace element geochemistry of intrusive rocks associated with the Candelaria deposit, one of the world’s largest IOCG deposits, to unravel distinctive signatures diagnostic of magmatic fertility. Our results reveal a marked transition in the geochemistry of intrusions in the Candelaria district, characterized by changes in the redox state, water content and temperature of magmas over time. The oldest magmatic stage (~ 128–125 Ma), prior to the formation of the Candelaria deposit, was characterized by zircon Eu/Eu* ratios of 0.20–0.42, and redox conditions of ΔFMQ − 0.4 to + 1.0. The earliest magmatic stage related to the formation of Fe-rich mineralization at Candelaria (118–115 Ma) exhibits low zircon Eu/Eu* ratios (0.09–0.18), low oxygen fugacity values (ΔFMQ ~− 1.8 to + 0.2) and relatively high crystallization temperatures. In contrast, the youngest stage at ~ 111–108 Ma shows higher zircon Eu/Eu* (~ 0.37–0.69), higher oxygen fugacity values (ΔFMQ ~  + 0.4 to + 1.3) and a decrease in crystallization temperatures, conditions that are favorable for the transport and precipitation of sulfur and chalcophile elements. We conclude that Candelaria was formed through two distinct ore-forming stages: the first associated with a reduced, high temperature, water-poor magma developed under a low tectonic stress, followed by a more oxidized, water-rich, and low temperature magmatic event related to a compressional regime. The first event led to Fe-rich and S-poor IOA-type mineralization, while the second event with geochemical signatures similar to those of porphyry copper systems, generated the Cu- and S-rich mineralization. This late stage overprinted preexisting IOA mineralization resulting in the formation of the giant Candelaria IOCG deposit.