bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the economic burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection in health care workers in four countries
Authors: Wang Huihui , Zeng Wu , Kabubei Kenneth Munge , Rasanathan Jennifer J. K. , Kazungu Jacob , Ginindza Sandile , Mtshali Sifiso , Salinas Luis E. , McClelland Amanda , Buissonniere Marine , Lee Christopher T. , Chuma Jane , Veillard Jeremy , Matsebula Thulani , Chopra Mickey
Published: May 2023

Health care workers (HCWs) experienced greater risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study applies a cost-of-illness (COI) approach to model the economic burden associated with SARS-CoV-2 infections among HCWs in five low- and middle-income sites (Kenya, Eswatini, Colombia, KwaZulu-Natal province, and Western Cape province of South Africa) during the first year of the pandemic. We find that not only did HCWs have a higher incidence of COVID-19 than the general population, but in all sites except Colombia, viral transmission from infected HCWs to close contacts resulted in substantial secondary SARS-CoV-2 infection and death. Disruption in health services as a result of HCW illness affected maternal and child deaths dramatically. Total economic losses attributable to SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs as a share of total health expenditure ranged from 1.51% in Colombia to 8.38% in Western Cape province, South Africa. This economic burden to society highlights the importance of adequate infection prevention and control measures to minimize the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in HCWs.
Value chain carbon footprints of Chinese listed companies
Authors: Zhang Zengkai , Li Jiaoyan , Guan Dabo
Published: May 2023

Measuring the value chain carbon footprints of listed companies is essential for cumulative climate actions and climate-efficient capital allocation. We trace the carbon emissions embodied in the value chains of Chinese listed companies and find that there is an increasing trend in terms of the carbon footprints of listed companies over the period 2010–2019. In 2019, the direct emissions from these companies reached 1.9 billion tonnes, accounting for 18.3% of national emissions. The indirect emissions were well over twice as large as the direct emissions from 2010 to 2019. Energy, construction and finance companies tend to have a greater volume of value chain carbon footprints, yet the distribution of their carbon footprints varies significantly. Finally, we apply the results to evaluate the financed emissions of leading asset managers’ equity portfolio investment in China’s stock market.
A Yap-dependent mechanoregulatory program sustains cell migration for embryo axis assembly
Authors: Sousa-Ortega Ana , Vázquez-Marín Javier , Sanabria-Reinoso Estefanía , Corbacho Jorge , Polvillo Rocío , Campoy-López Alejandro , Buono Lorena , Loosli Felix , Almuedo-Castillo María , Martínez-Morales Juan R.
Published: May 2023

The assembly of the embryo’s primary axis is a fundamental landmark for the establishment of the vertebrate body plan. Although the morphogenetic movements directing cell convergence towards the midline have been described extensively, little is known on how gastrulating cells interpret mechanical cues. Yap proteins are well-known transcriptional mechanotransducers, yet their role in gastrulation remains elusive. Here we show that the double knockout of yap and its paralog yap1b in medaka results in an axis assembly failure, due to reduced displacement and migratory persistence in mutant cells. Accordingly, we identified genes involved in cytoskeletal organization and cell-ECM adhesion as potentially direct Yap targets. Dynamic analysis of live sensors and downstream targets reveal that Yap is acting in migratory cells, promoting cortical actin and focal adhesions recruitment. Our results indicate that Yap coordinates a mechanoregulatory program to sustain intracellular tension and maintain the directed cell migration for embryo axis development.
Epidemiology and molecular characterization of avian influenza A viruses H5N1 and H3N8 subtypes in poultry farms and live bird markets in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Ariful , Islam Shariful , Flora Meerjady S. , Amin Emama , Woodard Karlie , Webb Ashley , Webster Robert G. , Webby Richard J. , Ducatez Mariette F. , Hassan Mohammad M. , El Zowalaty Mohamed E.
Published: May 2023

Avian influenza virus (AIV) remains a global threat, with waterfowl serving as the primary reservoir from which viruses spread to other hosts. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 viruses continue to be a devastating threat to the poultry industry and an incipient threat to humans. A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven districts of Bangladesh to estimate the prevalence and subtypes (H3, H5, and H9) of AIV in poultry and identify underlying risk factors and phylogenetic analysis of AIVs subtypes H5N1 and H3N8. Cloacal and oropharyngeal swab samples were collected from 500 birds in live bird markets (LBMs) and poultry farms. Each bird was sampled by cloacal and oropharyngeal swabbing, and swabs were pooled for further analysis. Pooled samples were analyzed for the influenza A virus (IAV) matrix (M) gene, followed by H5 and H9 molecular subtyping using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). Non-H5 and Non-H9 influenza A virus positive samples were sequenced to identify possible subtypes. Selected H5 positive samples were subjected to hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) gene sequencing. Multivariable logistic regression was used for risk factor analysis. We found that IAV M gene prevalence was 40.20% (95% CI 35.98–44.57), with 52.38%, 46.96%, and 31.11% detected in chicken, waterfowl, and turkey, respectively. Prevalence of H5, H3, and H9 reached 22%, 3.4%, and 6.9%, respectively. Waterfowl had a higher risk of having AIV (AOR: 4.75), and H5 (AOR: 5.71) compared to chicken; more virus was detected in the winter season than in the summer season (AOR: 4.93); dead birds had a higher risk of AIVs and H5 detection than healthy birds, and the odds of H5 detection increased in LBM. All six H5N1 viruses sequenced were clade 2.3.2.1a-R1 viruses circulating since 2015 in poultry and wild birds in Bangladesh. The 12 H3N8 viruses in our study formed two genetic groups that had more similarity to influenza viruses from wild birds in Mongolia and China than to previous H3N8 viruses from Bangladesh. The findings of this study may be used to modify guidelines on AIV control and prevention to account for the identified risk factors that impact their spread.
Mitogenomic phylogenetic analyses provide novel insights into the taxonomic problems of several hesperiid taxa (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae)
Authors: Zhu Lijuan , Han Yuke , Hou Yongxiang , Huang Zhenfu , Wang Min , Chiba Hideyuki , Chen Liusheng , Fan Xiaoling
Published: May 2023

Here, we present new molecular and morphological evidence that contributes towards clarifying the phylogenetic relations within the family Hesperiidae, and overcomes taxonomic problems regarding this family. First, nine new complete mitogenomes, comprising seven newly sequenced species and two samples of previously sequenced species collected from different localities, were obtained and assembled to analyze characteristics. The length of the mitogenomes ranges from 15,284 to 15,853 bp and encodes 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and a control region. Two model-based methods (maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) were used to infer the phylogenetic relationships. Based on the mitogenomic phylogenetic analyses and morphological evidence, we claim that the lineage that comprises two Asian genera, Apostictopterus Leech and Barca de Nicéville, should be a tribe Barcini stat. nov. of the subfamily Trapezitinae, Pseudocoladenia dea (Leech, 1894), P. festa (Evans, 1949), and Abraximorpha esta Evans, 1949 are considered distinct species. Finally, we suggest that Lotongus saralus chinensis Evans, 1932 should belong to the genus Acerbas de Nicéville, 1895, namely Acerbas saralus chinensis (Evans, 1932) comb. nov..
Genomic surveillance identifies potential risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 transmission at a mid-sized university in a small rural town
Authors: Andrews Kimberly R. , New Daniel D. , Gour Digpal S. , Francetich Kane , Minnich Scott A. , Robison Barrie D. , Hovde Carolyn J.
Published: May 2023

Understanding transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 in institutions of higher education (IHEs) is important because these settings have potential for rapid viral spread. Here, we used genomic surveillance to retrospectively investigate transmission dynamics throughout the 2020–2021 academic year for the University of Idaho (“University”), a mid-sized IHE in a small rural town. We generated genome assemblies for 1168 SARS-CoV-2 samples collected during the academic year, representing 46.8% of positive samples collected from the University population and 49.8% of positive samples collected from the surrounding community (“Community”) at the local hospital during this time. Transmission dynamics differed for the University when compared to the Community, with more infection waves that lasted shorter lengths of time, potentially resulting from high-transmission congregate settings along with mitigation efforts implemented by the University to combat outbreaks. We found evidence for low transmission rates between the University and Community, with approximately 8% of transmissions into the Community originating from the University, and approximately 6% of transmissions into the University originating from the Community. Potential transmission risk factors identified for the University included congregate settings such as sorority and fraternity events and residences, holiday travel, and high caseloads in the surrounding community. Knowledge of these risk factors can help the University and other IHEs develop effective mitigation measures for SARS-CoV-2 and similar pathogens.
The effect of chronic low back pain on postural control during quiet standing: A meta-analysis
Authors: Park Jinhan , Nguyen Vinh Q. , Ho Rachel L. M. , Coombes Stephen A.
Published: May 2023

Low back pain (LBP) has been associated with altered body sway during quiet standing, but the pattern of results is inconsistent. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to examine the effects of vision (eyes open, eyes closed) and changing the support surface (foam surface, firm surface) on postural sway during quiet standing in individuals with chronic LBP (cLBP). Five electronic databases were searched on March 27th, 2022. Of 2,856, 16 studies (n = 663) were included. Across all conditions, we found a positive and medium effect size (g = 0.77 [0.50, 1.04]) that represented greater body sway in individuals with cLBP. Subgroup analyses revealed medium effects during eyes open conditions (firm surface: g = 0.60 [0.33, 0.87]; foam surface: g = 0.68 [0.38, 0.97]), and large effects during eyes closed conditions (firm surface: g = 0.97 [0.60, 1.35]; foam surface: g = 0.89 [0.28, 1.51]). We quantified effects of self-reported pain and found a moderate effect during eyes closed plus firm surface conditions (Q = 3.28; p = 0.070). We conclude that cLBP is associated with increased postural sway, with largest effect sizes evident when vision is removed and when self-reported pain intensity is higher.
A multicenter feasibility study on implementing a brief mindful breathing exercise into regular university courses
Authors: Konrad Annika C. , Engert Veronika , Albrecht Reyk , Dobel Christian , Döring Nicola , Haueisen Jens , Klimecki Olga , Sandbothe Mike , Kanske Philipp
Published: May 2023

Practicing mindfulness is associated with stress reduction and with positive effects in the context of learning and teaching. Although effects on student populations have been studied extensively, there are few studies implementing mindfulness exercises in university courses directly. For this reason, we aimed to investigate whether the use of a brief mindfulness exercise in regular university courses, guided by the lecturers, is feasible and has immediate effects on the students’ mental states. We conducted a preregistered multicenter study with one observational arm, following an ABAB design. In total, N = 325 students from 19 different university courses were included at baseline and n = 101 students at post measurement. Students were recruited by N = 14 lecturers located in six different universities in Germany. Lecturers started their courses either by guiding a brief mindfulness exercise (intervention condition) or as they regularly would, with no such exercise (control condition). In both conditions, the mental states of students and lecturers were assessed. Over the semester, n = 1193 weekly observations from students and n = 160 observations from lecturers were collected. Intervention effects were analyzed with linear mixed-effects models. The brief mindfulness exercise, compared to no such exercise, was associated with lower stress composite scores, higher presence composite scores, higher motivation for the courses, as well as better mood in students. Effects persisted throughout a respective course session. Lecturers also reported positive effects of instructing mindfulness. Implementing a brief mindfulness exercise in regular university teaching sessions is feasible and has positive effects on both students and lecturers.
Regional long-term analysis of dietary isotopes in Neolithic southeastern Italy: new patterns and research directions
Authors: Tafuri M. A. , Soncin S. , Panella S. , Thompson J. E. , Tiberi I. , Fabbri P. F. , Sivilli S. , Radina F. , Minozzi S. , Muntoni I. M. , Fiorentino G. , Robb J.
Published: May 2023

Isotopic analyses of prehistoric diet have only recently reached the threshold of going beyond site-focused reports to provide regional syntheses showing larger trends. In this work we present the first regional analysis for Neolithic southeastern Italy as a whole, including both substantial original data and a review of the available published data. The results show that dietary isotopes can shed new light on a number of traditional and important questions about Neolithic foodways. First, we observe regional variations in the distribution of stable isotope values across the area, suggesting variability in the Neolithic diet. Secondly, we show that, although the plant food calorific intake was primary for these communities, animal products were also important, representing on average 40% of the total calories. Third, we note that marine fish was only minorly consumed, but that this could be an underestimation, and we observe some variability in the regions considered, suggesting differences in local human–environment interactions. People in different regions of southeastern Italy may have consumed different versions of a common Neolithic diet. Regional synthesis also allows us to take stock of gaps and new directions in the field, suggesting an agenda for Neolithic isotopic research for the 2020s.
Cigarette smoke increases susceptibility of alveolar macrophages to SARS-CoV-2 infection through inducing reactive oxygen species-upregulated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression
Authors: Kuo Chin-Wei , Su Po-Lan , Huang Tang-Hsiu , Lin Chien-Chung , Chen Chian-Wei , Tsai Jeng-Shiuan , Liao Xin-Min , Chan Tzu-Yi , Shieh Chi-Chang
Published: May 2023

Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are the drivers of pulmonary cytokine storm in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. This study aimed to investigate clinical–regulatory factors for the entrance protein of SARS-CoV-2, angiotensin–converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in AMs. Human AMs were collected from 56 patients using bronchoalveolar lavage. ACE2 expression in AMs was positively correlated with smoking pack-year (Spearman’s r = 0.347, P = 0.038). In multivariate analysis, current smoking was associated with increased ACE2 in AMs (β-coefficient: 0.791, 95% CI 0.019–1.562, P = 0.045). In vitro study, ex-vivo human AMs with higher ACE2 were more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus (CoV-2 PsV). Treating human AMs using cigarette smoking extract (CSE) increases the ACE2 and susceptibility to CoV-2 PsV. CSE did not significantly increase the ACE2 in AMs of reactive oxygen species (ROS) deficient Cybb–/– mice; however, exogenous ROS increased the ACE2 in Cybb–/– AMs. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) decreases ACE2 by suppressing intracellular ROS in human AMs. In conclusion, cigarette smoking increases the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 by increasing ROS–induced ACE2 expression of AMs. Further investigation into the preventive effect of NAC on the pulmonary complications of COVID-19 is required.
Association of rural living with COPD-related hospitalizations and deaths in US veterans
Authors: Fortis Spyridon , Gao Yubo , Baldomero Arianne K. , Sarrazin Mary Vaughan , Kaboli Peter J.
Published: May 2023

It is unclear whether the high burden of COPD in rural areas is related to worse outcomes in patients with COPD or is because the prevalence of COPD is higher in rural areas. We assessed the association of rural living with acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPDs)-related hospitalization and mortality. We retrospectively analyzed Veterans Affairs (VA) and Medicare data of a nationwide cohort of veterans with COPD aged ≥ 65 years with COPD diagnosis between 2011 and 2014 that had follow-up data until 2017. Patients were categorized based on residential location into urban, rural, and isolated rural. We used generalized linear and Cox proportional hazards models to assess the association of residential location with AECOPD-related hospitalizations and long-term mortality. Of 152,065 patients, 80,162 (52.7%) experienced at least one AECOPD-related hospitalization. After adjusting for demographics and comorbidities, rural living was associated with fewer hospitalizations (relative risk-RR = 0.90; 95% CI: 0.89–0.91; P < 0.001) but isolated rural living was not associated with hospitalizations. Only after accounting for travel time to the closest VA medical center, neighborhood disadvantage, and air quality, isolated rural living was associated with more AECOPD-related hospitalizations (RR = 1.07; 95% CI: 1.05–1.09; P < 0.001). Mortality did not vary between rural and urban living patients. Our findings suggest that other aspects than hospital care may be responsible for the excess of hospitalizations in isolated rural patients like poor access to appropriate outpatient care.
Defining the filarial N-glycoproteome by glycosite mapping in the human parasitic nematode Brugia malayi
Authors: Mersha Fana B. , McClung Colleen M. , Chen Minyong , Ruse Cristian I. , Foster Jeremy M.
Published: May 2023

N-linked glycosylation is a critical post translational modification of eukaryotic proteins. N-linked glycans are present on surface and secreted filarial proteins that play a role in host parasite interactions. Examples of glycosylated Brugia malayi proteins have been previously identified but there has not been a systematic study of the N-linked glycoproteome of this or any other filarial parasite. In this study, we applied an enhanced N-glyco FASP protocol using an engineered carbohydrate-binding protein, Fbs1, to enrich N-glycosylated peptides for analysis by LC-MS/MS. We then mapped the N-glycosites on proteins from three host stages of the parasite: adult female, adult male and microfilariae. Fbs1 enrichment of N-glycosylated peptides enhanced the identification of N-glycosites. Our data identified 582 N-linked glycoproteins with 1273 N-glycosites. Gene ontology and cell localization prediction of the identified N-glycoproteins indicated that they were mostly membrane and extracellular proteins. Comparing results from adult female worms, adult male worms, and microfilariae, we find variability in N-glycosylation at the protein level as well as at the individual N-glycosite level. These variations are highlighted in cuticle N-glycoproteins and adult worm restricted N-glycoproteins as examples of proteins at the host parasite interface that are well positioned as potential therapeutic targets or biomarkers.
Supervised deep learning with vision transformer predicts delirium using limited lead EEG
Authors: Mulkey Malissa A. , Huang Huyunting , Albanese Thomas , Kim Sunghan , Yang Baijian
Published: May 2023

As many as 80% of critically ill patients develop delirium increasing the need for institutionalization and higher morbidity and mortality. Clinicians detect less than 40% of delirium when using a validated screening tool. EEG is the criterion standard but is resource intensive thus not feasible for widespread delirium monitoring. This study evaluated the use of limited-lead rapid-response EEG and supervised deep learning methods with vision transformer to predict delirium. This proof-of-concept study used a prospective design to evaluate use of supervised deep learning with vision transformer and a rapid-response EEG device for predicting delirium in mechanically ventilated critically ill older adults. Fifteen different models were analyzed. Using all available data, the vision transformer models provided 99.9%+ training and 97% testing accuracy across models. Vision transformer with rapid-response EEG is capable of predicting delirium. Such monitoring is feasible in critically ill older adults. Therefore, this method has strong potential for improving the accuracy of delirium detection, providing greater opportunity for individualized interventions. Such an approach may shorten hospital length of stay, increase discharge to home, decrease mortality, and reduce the financial burden associated with delirium.
Single cell profiling at the maternal–fetal interface reveals a deficiency of PD-L1+ non-immune cells in human spontaneous preterm labor
Authors: Liu Xiao , Aneas Ivy , Sakabe Noboru , Anderson Rebecca L. , Billstrand Christine , Paz Cristina , Kaur Harjot , Furner Brian , Choi Seong , Prichina Adriana Y. , Enninga Elizabeth Ann L. , Dong Haidong , Murtha Amy , Crawford Gregory E. , Kessler John A. , Grobman William , Nobrega Marcelo A. , Rana Sarosh , Ober Carole
Published: May 2023

The mechanisms that underlie the timing of labor in humans are largely unknown. In most pregnancies, labor is initiated at term (≥ 37 weeks gestation), but in a signifiicant number of women spontaneous labor occurs preterm and is associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity. The objective of this study was to characterize the cells at the maternal–fetal interface (MFI) in term and preterm pregnancies in both the laboring and non-laboring state in Black women, who have among the highest preterm birth rates in the U.S. Using mass cytometry to obtain high-dimensional single-cell resolution, we identified 31 cell populations at the MFI, including 25 immune cell types and six non-immune cell types. Among the immune cells, maternal PD1+ CD8 T cell subsets were less abundant in term laboring compared to term non-laboring women. Among the non-immune cells, PD-L1+ maternal (stromal) and fetal (extravillous trophoblast) cells were less abundant in preterm laboring compared to term laboring women. Consistent with these observations, the expression of CD274, the gene encoding PD-L1, was significantly depressed and less responsive to fetal signaling molecules in cultured mesenchymal stromal cells from the decidua of preterm compared to term women. Overall, these results suggest that the PD1/PD-L1 pathway at the MFI may perturb the delicate balance between immune tolerance and rejection and contribute to the onset of spontaneous preterm labor.
Effectiveness of a telerehabilitation intervention using ReCOVery APP of long COVID patients: a randomized, 3-month follow-up clinical trial
Authors: Samper-Pardo M. , León-Herrera S. , Oliván-Blázquez B. , Méndez-López F. , Domínguez-García M. , Sánchez-Recio R.
Published: May 2023

The main objective of this study is to analyze the clinical efficacy of telerehabilitation in the recovery of Long COVID patients through ReCOVery APP for 3 months, administered in the Primary Health Care context. The second objective is to identify significant models associated with an improvement in the study variables. An open-label randomized clinical trial was conducted using two parallel groups of a total of 100 Long COVID patients. The first group follows the treatment as usual methods established by their general practitioner (control group) and the second follows the same methods and also uses ReCOVery APP (intervention group). After the intervention, no significant differences were found in favour of the group intervention. Regarding adherence, 25% of the participants made significant use of the APP. Linear regression model establishes that the time of use of ReCOVery APP predicts an improvement in physical function (b = 0.001; p = 0.005) and community social support (b = 0.004; p = 0.021). In addition, an increase in self-efficacy and health literacy also contribute to improving cognitive function (b = 0.346; p = 0.001) and reducing the number of symptoms (b = 0.226; p = 0.002), respectively. In conclusion, the significant use of ReCOVery APP can contribute to the recovery of Long COVID patients.

Trial Registration No.: ISRCTN91104012.
The association between conjunctival and scleral thickness and ocular surface ultraviolet autofluorescence
Authors: Rajasingam Pryntha , Shaw Alyra , Davis Brett , Alonso-Caneiro David , Hamwood Jared , Collins Michael
Published: May 2023

Ultraviolet autofluorescence (UVAF) imaging is used to visualise ocular surface changes due to sunlight exposure and so is considered to be a biomarker for UV damage. The conjunctival and scleral thicknesses of participants with and without ocular surface UVAF were measured to examine the UVAF associated tissue thicknesses. The presence of UVAF on the ocular surface was associated with significant differences in tissue thickness including thinner conjunctival epitheliums and thicker scleras but predominantly thickening of the conjunctival stroma. Participants were also classified into four groups according to the presence and absence of UVAF on both the temporal and nasal conjunctivas. It was noted that for those that had only nasal UVAF, the temporal conjunctival stroma was significantly thicker even without the presence of UVAF. Some participants with temporal UVAF had signs of pinguecula observed with slit lamp examination and some had OCT SLO enface imaging darkening. These findings highlight the potential of techniques other than slit lamp examination, including tissue thickness measurement and UVAF photography, in the detection of early UV-related changes to the ocular surface.
A novel deep learning approach for typhoon-induced storm surge modeling through efficient emulation of wind and pressure fields
Authors: Mulia Iyan E. , Ueda Naonori , Miyoshi Takemasa , Iwamoto Takumu , Heidarzadeh Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Modeling typhoon-induced storm surges requires 10-m wind and sea level pressure fields as forcings, commonly obtained using parametric models or a fully dynamical simulation by numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. The parametric models are generally less accurate than the full-physics models of the NWP, but they are often preferred owing to their computational efficiency facilitating rapid uncertainty quantification. Here, we propose using a deep learning method based on generative adversarial networks (GAN) to translate the parametric model outputs into a more realistic atmospheric forcings structure resembling the NWP model results. Additionally, we introduce lead-lag parameters to incorporate a forecasting feature in our model. Thirty-four historical typhoon events from 1981 to 2012 are selected to train the GAN, followed by storm surge simulations for the four most recent events. The proposed method efficiently transforms the parametric model into realistic forcing fields by a standard desktop computer within a few seconds. The results show that the storm surge model accuracy with forcings generated by GAN is comparable to that of the NWP model and outperforms the parametric model. Our novel GAN model offers an alternative for rapid storm forecasting and can potentially combine varied data, such as those from satellite images, to improve the forecasts further.
Posterior hippocampal CA2/3 volume is associated with autobiographical memory recall ability in lower performing individuals
Authors: Clark Ian A. , Dalton Marshall A. , Maguire Eleanor A.
Published: May 2023

People vary substantially in their capacity to recall past experiences, known as autobiographical memories. Here we investigated whether the volumes of specific hippocampal subfields were associated with autobiographical memory retrieval ability. We manually segmented the full length of the two hippocampi in 201 healthy young adults into DG/CA4, CA2/3, CA1, subiculum, pre/parasubiculum and uncus, in the largest such manually segmented subfield sample yet reported. Across the group we found no evidence for an association between any subfield volume and autobiographical memory recall ability. However, when participants were assigned to lower and higher performing groups based on their memory recall scores, we found that bilateral CA2/3 volume was significantly and positively associated with autobiographical memory recall performance specifically in the lower performing group. We further observed that this effect was attributable to posterior CA2/3. By contrast, semantic details from autobiographical memories, and performance on a range of laboratory-based memory tests, did not correlate with CA2/3 volume. Overall, our findings highlight that posterior CA2/3 may be particularly pertinent for autobiographical memory recall. They also reveal that there may not be direct one-to-one mapping of posterior CA2/3 volume with autobiographical memory ability, with size mattering perhaps only in those with poorer memory recall.
On multiplexing in physical random number generation, and conserved total entropy content
Authors: Monet Frederic , Kashyap Raman
Published: May 2023

In the current article, we use a random supercontinuum based on a random Raman distributed feedback laser to investigate the generation of random numbers by spectrally demultiplexing the broad supercontinuum spectrum in parallel channels. By tuning the spectral separation between two independent channels, we test the most typically used statistical tests’ abilities to identify the required minimum spectral separation between channels, especially after the use of post-processing steps. Out of all the tests that were investigated, the cross-correlation across channels using the raw data appears to be the most robust. We also demonstrate that the use of post-processing steps, either least significant bits extraction or exclusive-OR operations, hinders the ability of these tests to detect the existing correlations. As such, performing these tests on post-processed data, often reported in literature, is insufficient to properly establish the independence of two parallel channels. We therefore present a methodology, which may be used to confirm the true randomness of parallel random number generation schemes. Finally, we demonstrate that, while tuning a single channel’s bandwidth can modify its potential randomness output, it also affects the number of available channels, such that the total random number generation bitrate is conserved.
The effect of customer satisfaction on floral product purchase behavior, evidence from Shanghai, China
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Chen Tinggui , Wang Chan , Liu Zengjin , Jia Lei , Zhao Xintong
Published: May 2023

China's flower industry is developing rapidly, and the size of the retail market is increasing year by year. Studying the factors influencing residents' flower purchasing behavior and understanding their flower needs can help promote the sustainable development of the flower industry. Based on customer satisfaction theory, this paper uses 838 consumer research questionnaires from 15 districts in Shanghai to analyze the influence of customer satisfaction on residents' flower purchasing behavior by conducting a binary logit model and to investigate the moderating effect of flower purchasing purpose on the influence of satisfaction. The results show that price satisfaction and satisfaction with promotional methods have a significant negative effect on flower purchasing behavior, service satisfaction has a significant positive effect on purchasing behavior, and different customer purchase purposes lead to different intensities of the effect of satisfaction on purchasing behavior. According to the conclusion of the study, three countermeasures are proposed: to popularize the knowledge of flower culture, guide the concept of flower consumption, and promote the transformation of flower consumption to daily consumption; to conduct regular research on consumers by flower merchants to clarify consumers' needs and improve their satisfaction; to clarify consumers' purchase intention, increase the investment in the research and development and cultivation of flower products, and improve the supply level of flowers.
CTLA-4 suppresses hapten-induced contact hypersensitivity in atopic dermatitis model mice
Authors: Tetsu Hiroe , Nakayama Kanako , Nishijo Taku , Yuki Takuo , Miyazawa Masaaki
Published: May 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) patients with skin barrier dysfunction are considered to be at a higher risk of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), although previous studies showed that attenuated ACD responses to strong sensitizers in AD patients compared to healthy controls. However, the mechanisms of ACD response attenuation in AD patients are unclear. Therefore, using the contact hypersensitivity (CHS) mouse model, this study explored the differences in CHS responses to hapten sensitization between NC/Nga mice with or without AD induction (i.e., non-AD and AD mice, respectively). In this study, ear swelling and hapten-specific T cell proliferation were significantly lower in AD than in non-AD mice. Moreover, we examined the T cells expressing cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), which is known to suppress T cell activation, and found a higher frequency of CTLA-4+ regulatory T cells in draining lymph node cells in AD than in non-AD mice. Furthermore, the blockade of CTLA-4 using a monoclonal antibody eliminated the difference in ear swelling between non-AD and AD mice. These findings suggested that CTLA-4+T cells may contribute to suppressing the CHS responses in AD mice.
Spicy food intake predicts Alzheimer-related cognitive decline in older adults with low physical activity
Authors: Hwang Jaeuk , Choe Young Min , Suh Guk-Hee , Lee Boung Chul , Choi Ihn-Geun , Lee Jun Ho , Kim Hyun Soo , Kim Shin Gyeom , Yi Dahyun , Kim Jee Wook
Published: May 2023

A plausible association exists among spicy food consumption, physical activity, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or cognitive decline, but it remains poorly investigated. We aimed to examined the association between spicy food and AD-related memory decline or global cognitive decline in older adults under the moderating effect of physical activity. Total 196 non-demented older adults were included. Participants underwent comprehensive dietary and clinical assessments including spicy food intake, AD-related memory, global cognition, and physical activity. The strength of spicy food was stratified into three categories: ‘not spicy’ (reference), ‘low spiciness’, and ‘high spiciness’. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to examine the relationships between spicy level and cognition. The spicy level was the independent variable in each analysis; it was entered as a stratified categorical variable using the three categories. We found a significant association between a high level of spiciness in food and decreased memory ($$\beta$$
β
− 0.167, p < 0.001) or global cognition ($$\beta$$
β
− 0.122, p = 0.027), but not non-memory cognition. To explore the moderating effects of age, sex, apolipoprotein E ε4 allele-positivity, vascular risk score, body mass index, and physical activity on the associations between spicy level and memory or global cognition, the same regression analyses were repeated including two-way interaction terms between the spicy level and each of the six variables as an additional independent variable. An interactive effect was detected between a high level of spiciness in food and physical activity on the memory ($$\beta$$
β
0.209, p = 0.029) or global cognition ($$\beta$$
β
0.336, p = 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed that the association between a high level of spiciness in food and a lower memory ($$\beta$$
β
− 0.254, p < 0.001) and global score ($$\beta$$
β
− 0.222, p = 0.002) was present only in older adults with low physical activity, but not in older adults with high physical activity. Our findings suggest that spicy food intake is predictive of AD-related cognitive decline, i.e., episodic memory; this relationship is worsened by physically inactive lifestyle.
GaNDLF: the generally nuanced deep learning framework for scalable end-to-end clinical workflows
Authors: Pati Sarthak , Thakur Siddhesh P. , Hamamcı İbrahim Ethem , Baid Ujjwal , Baheti Bhakti , Bhalerao Megh , Güley Orhun , Mouchtaris Sofia , Lang David , Thermos Spyridon , Gotkowski Karol , González Camila , Grenko Caleb , Getka Alexander , Edwards Brandon , Sheller Micah , Wu Junwen , Karkada Deepthi , Panchumarthy Ravi , Ahluwalia Vinayak , Zou Chunrui , Bashyam Vishnu , Li Yuemeng , Haghighi Babak , Chitalia Rhea , Abousamra Shahira , Kurc Tahsin M. , Gastounioti Aimilia , Er Sezgin , Bergman Mark , Saltz Joel H. , Fan Yong , Shah Prashant , Mukhopadhyay Anirban , Tsaftaris Sotirios A. , Menze Bjoern , Davatzikos Christos , Kontos Despina , Karargyris Alexandros , Umeton Renato , Mattson Peter , Bakas Spyridon
Published: May 2023

Deep Learning (DL) has the potential to optimize machine learning in both the scientific and clinical communities. However, greater expertise is required to develop DL algorithms, and the variability of implementations hinders their reproducibility, translation, and deployment. Here we present the community-driven Generally Nuanced Deep Learning Framework (GaNDLF), with the goal of lowering these barriers. GaNDLF makes the mechanism of DL development, training, and inference more stable, reproducible, interpretable, and scalable, without requiring an extensive technical background. GaNDLF aims to provide an end-to-end solution for all DL-related tasks in computational precision medicine. We demonstrate the ability of GaNDLF to analyze both radiology and histology images, with built-in support for k-fold cross-validation, data augmentation, multiple modalities and output classes. Our quantitative performance evaluation on numerous use cases, anatomies, and computational tasks supports GaNDLF as a robust application framework for deployment in clinical workflows.
Gut indigenous Ruminococcus gnavus alleviates constipation and stress-related behaviors in mice with loperamide-induced constipation
Authors: Li Rong , Xu Sheng , Li Bei , Zhang Bo , Chen Weihua , Dai Die , Liu Zhi
Published: May 2023

Refractory constipation is the most severe form of constipation, and its etiology remains unknown.
Zero valent iron-electro-Fenton-peroxymonosulfate (ZVI-E-Fenton-PMS) process for industrial wastewater treatment
Authors: Wang Song , Zhang Yonggang
Published: May 2023

This article reports a novel combined advanced oxidation process (ZVI-E-Fenton-PMS) for the treatment of refractory wastewater and investigates its main oxidation mechanisms.
Nonlinear chemical reaction induced abnormal pattern formation of chemotactic particles
Authors: Jiang Xianyun , Jiang Huijun , Hou Zhonghuai
Published: May 2023

Combining chemotactic particles with nonlinear chemical reactions, the peculiar phenomenon of “eat and more” has been discovered, and a variety of patterns have been formed based on this.
Dynamic exchange controls the assembly structure of nucleic-acid-peptide chimeras
Authors: Sadihov-Hanoch Hava , Bandela Anil Kumar , Chotera-Ouda Agata , Ben David Oshrat , Cohen-Luria Rivka , Lynn David G. , Ashkenasy Gonen
Published: May 2023

Reversible self-assembly reactions are used to tune the formation of nucleic-acid-peptide materials. Investigation of the co-assembly structure and dynamics yields new insight into prebiotic hybrid complexes.
A robust multi-residue method for the monitoring of 25 endocrine disruptors at ultra-trace levels in surface waters by SPE-LC-MS/MS
Authors: Grobin Andrej , Roškar Robert , Trontelj Jurij
Published: May 2023

Analysis of surface water samples with solid phase extraction and tandem mass spectrometry with dansyl chloride derivatization enables the environmental monitoring of 25 endocrine disruptors at ultra-trace levels.
Chemically selective raising and rolling of oil-droplets underwater: an equipment-free chemical sensing method
Authors: Borbora Angana , Das Jaysri , Manna Uttam
Published: May 2023

Simple chemical reactions are rationally introduced to achieve mono- and dual-functionalized multilayer coatings for raising of the oil contact angle and rolling of beaded oil-droplets underwater, only in the presence of targeted toxic chemicals.
Efficient synthesis and unit-selective π-extension of π-fused [4.3.3]propellane as a chiral building block
Authors: Kato Kenichi , Tanaka Seigo , Seto Nobuyoshi , Wada Keisuke , Gon Masayuki , Fa Shixin , Ohtani Shunsuke , Tanaka Kazuo , Ogoshi Tomoki
Published: May 2023

[4.3.3]Propellane fused with π-conjugated units is efficiently synthesized and functionalized in a naphthalene-selective manner to yield a chiroptical derivative.
Hydrophobic cyclic dipeptides as M+/Cl−carriers
Authors: Hale Umatai A. , Madhavan Nandita
Published: May 2023

An interplay of ester and amide units for transmembrane KCl co-transport using simple cyclic dipeptides.
Hydrothermal synthesis of defect-induced pristine α-NaCe(WO4)2: a novel material for solid state lighting and gas sensing
Authors: Haldar Nibedita , Mondal Tanmoy , Das Tanushri , Sarkar Debabrata , Pal Mrinal , Ghosh Chandan Kumar
Published: May 2023

Triclinic NaCe(WO4)2 with oxygen monovacancies and divacancies has been successfully prepared via a facile cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB)-assisted hydrothermal technique.
Tuning of thermal expansion properties of a mixed-ligand MOF by ligand variation
Authors: Sethi Tapaswini , Bhattacharya Debarati , Das Dinabandhu
Published: May 2023

Thermal expansion property of a mixed-ligand MOF was tuned by replacing the pyrazine (Pz) ligand with bipyridine (Bpy).
Superconducting boron allotrope featuring pentagonal bipyramid at ambient pressure
Authors: Han Shuai , Liu Yunxian , Wang Chao , Yi Wencai , Chen Xin , Zhang Yongsheng , Liu Xiaobing
Published: May 2023

Elemental boron has evoked substantial interest owing to its chemical complexity in nature.
Aromatic aldehydes as tuneable and ppm level potent promoters for zeolite catalysed methanol dehydration to DME
Authors: Yang Zhiqiang , Dennis-Smither Benjamin J. , Buda Corneliu , Easey Amie , Jackson Fiona , Price Gregory A. , Sainty Neil , Tan Xingzhi , Xu Zhuoran , Sunley Glenn J.
Published: May 2023

Benzaldehyde and its derivatives have been found to be tuneable and potent promoters for zeolite catalysed methanol dehydration to DME.
Pd-catalysed hydrodehalogenation of aryl chlorides: a mild method for deuteration and detoxification
Authors: Burhenn Angela , Bavaro Roberta , Gessner Viktoria H.
Published: May 2023

The hydrodehalogenation of haloarenes at room temperature using ethanol as hydride source and a Pd-catalyst with an ylide-substituted phosphine is reported. The protocol can be used for deuterations and detoxifications of chlorinated biphenyls.
Meta-analysis of the association between major foods with added fructose and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Liu Wenqi , Zhai Daokuan , Zhang Tingjing , Mudoti Nyasha Grace , Chang Qing , Liu Yashu , Zhao Yuhong , Ding Yang , Xia Yang
Published: May 2023

The relationship between the consumption of foods with added fructose and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was inconsistent in previous epidemiological studies, and no meta-analysis has been performed on the pooled results.
Correction: Continuous flow solvent free organic synthesis involving solids (reactants/products) using a screw reactor
Authors: Sharma Brijesh M. , Atapalkar Ranjit S. , Kulkarni Amol A.
Published: May 2023

Correction for ‘Continuous flow solvent free organic synthesis involving solids (reactants/products) using a screw reactor’ by Brijesh M. Sharma et al., Green Chem., 2019, 21, 5639–5646, https://doi.org/10.1039/C9GC02447F.
Correction: Enhanced detoxification of Cr6+ by Shewanella oneidensis via adsorption on spherical and flower-like manganese ferrite nanostructures
Authors: Raie Diana S. , Tsonas Ioannis , Canales Melisa , Mourdikoudis Stefanos , Simeonidis Konstantinos , Makridis Antonios , Karfaridis Dimitrios , Ali Shanom , Vourlias Georgios , Wilson Peter , Bozec Laurent , Ciric Lena , Kim Thanh Nguyen Thi
Published: May 2023

Correction for ‘Enhanced detoxification of Cr6+ by Shewanella oneidensis via adsorption on spherical and flower-like manganese ferrite nanostructures’ by Diana S. Raie et al., Nanoscale Adv., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d2na00691j.
Combining the power of DP4+ and ANN-PRA analysis on stereochemical assignments: structural validation of bioactive cyclic peroxide from the marine sponge Plakortis angulospiculatus
Authors: Batista Andrea N. L. , Martorano Lucas H. , Valverde Alessandra L. , dos Santos Fernando M.
Published: May 2023

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can provide detailed information about the chemical structure and stereochemistry of a molecule.
Synthesis of titanosilicate nanoparticles with high titanium content from a silsesquioxane-based precursor for a model epoxidation reaction
Authors: Moteki Takahiko , Sei Tomohiro , Ogura Masaru
Published: May 2023

Bottom-up synthesis of titanosilicate nanoparticles was demonstrated with using a Ti-incorporated cubic silsesquioxane cage as a precursor. The catalytic tests suggest that well-dispersed and stabilized Ti species served as the active sites.
Visible-light organophotoredox-mediated intermolecular formal [4 + 2] cycloadditions of arylcyclobutylamines with olefins
Authors: Luo Zhengshan , Xing Zequn , Gao Rui , Han Yufang , Ren Jun , Wang Zhongwen
Published: May 2023

With QXPT-NPhCN as an organic photocatalyst, we have developed visible-light-mediated formal [4 + 2] cycloaddition of arylcyclobutylamines with olefins to effectively afford 2-functionalized cyclohexylamines.
Total synthesis and biological evaluation of histone deacetylase inhibitor WF-3161
Authors: Kohr Michael , Papenkordt Niklas , Jung Manfred , Kazmaier Uli
Published: May 2023

Matteson homologations and a Pd-catalysed C–H functionalisation are key steps in the synthesis of highly selective HDAC1 inhibitor WF-3161.
Bio-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for cost-effective adsorption of U(vi): experimental and theoretical investigation
Authors: Das Chanchal , Ghosh Narendra Nath , Pulhani Vandana , Biswas Goutam , Singhal Pallavi
Published: May 2023

Here we report bio-functionalized magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) for the adsorptive removal of U(vi). Over 94% adsorption is still retained ever after 4th cycle. The experimental adsorption was also investigated and supported by DFT calculations.
First-principles study of SiC and GeC monolayers with adsorbed non-metal atoms
Authors: Ha Chu Viet , Ha L. T. , Hue Do Thi , Nguyen Duy Khanh , Anh Dang Tuan , Guerrero-Sanchez J. , Hoat D. M.
Published: May 2023

Possible adsorption sites and stable atomic structure of the H-, O-, and F-adsorbed SiC and GeC monolayers.
A review on arsenic in the environment: bio-accumulation, remediation, and disposal
Authors: Patel Khageshwar Singh , Pandey Piyush Kant , Martín-Ramos Pablo , Corns Warren T. , Varol Simge , Bhattacharya Prosun , Zhu Yanbei
Published: May 2023

Bio-accumulation, remediation, and disposal of arsenic (one of the regulated elements) in the environment are investigated and discussed comprehensively.
Electro-organic green synthesis of dicyano-2-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) malononitriles using molecular iodine as catalyst
Authors: Verma Neetu , Mishra Vinay Kumar , Singh Sundaram , Malviya Manisha , Sagar Ram
Published: May 2023

The first electrochemical molecular iodine promoted, domino reactions for the green synthesis of biologically relevant dicyano 2-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) malononitriles from readily available isatin derivatives and malononitrileat room temperature has been presented.