bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning prevalent patterns of co-morbidities in multichronic patients using population-based healthcare data
Authors: Seghieri Chiara , Tortù Costanza , Tricò Domenico , Leonetti Simone
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of longstanding chronic diseases has increased worldwide, along with the average age of the population. As a result, an increasing number of people is affected by two or more chronic conditions simultaneously, and healthcare systems are facing the challenge of treating multimorbid patients effectively. Current therapeutic strategies are suited to manage each chronic condition separately, without considering the whole clinical condition of the patient. This approach may lead to suboptimal clinical outcomes and system inefficiencies (e.g. redundant diagnostic tests and inadequate drug prescriptions). We develop a novel methodology based on the joint implementation of data reduction and clustering algorithms to identify patterns of chronic diseases that are likely to co-occur in multichronic patients. We analyse data from a large adult population of multichronic patients living in Tuscany (Italy) in 2019 which was stratified by sex and age classes. Results demonstrate that (i) cardio-metabolic, endocrine, and neuro-degenerative diseases represent a stable pattern of multimorbidity, and (ii) disease prevalence and clustering vary across ages and between women and men. Identifying the most common multichronic profiles can help tailor medical protocols to patients’ needs and reduce costs. Furthermore, analysing temporal patterns of disease can refine risk predictions for evolutive chronic conditions.
Functional neurogenomic responses to acoustic threats, including a heterospecific referential alarm call and its referent, in the auditory forebrain of red-winged blackbirds
Authors: Antonson N. D. , Enos J. K. , Lawson S. L. , Uy F. M. K. , Gill S. A. , Lynch K. S. , Hauber M. E.
Published: January 2024

In animal communication, functionally referential alarm calls elicit the same behavioral responses as their referents, despite their typically distinct bioacoustic traits. Yet the auditory forebrain in at least one songbird species, the black-capped chickadee Poecile atricapillus, responds similarly to threat calls and their referent predatory owl calls, as assessed by immediate early gene responses in the secondary auditory forebrain nuclei. Whether and where in the brain such perceptual and cognitive equivalence is processed remains to be understood in most other avian systems. Here, we studied the functional neurogenomic (non-) equivalence of acoustic threat stimuli perception by the red-winged blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus in response to the actual calls of the obligate brood parasitic brown-headed cowbird Molothrus ater and the referential anti-parasitic alarm calls of the yellow warbler Setophaga petechia, upon which the blackbird is known to eavesdrop. Using RNA-sequencing from neural tissue in the auditory lobule (primary and secondary auditory nuclei combined), in contrast to previous findings, we found significant differences in the gene expression profiles of both an immediate early gene, ZENK (egr-1), and other song-system relevant gene-products in blackbirds responding to cowbird vs. warbler calls. In turn, direct cues of threats (including conspecific intruder calls and nest-predator calls) elicited higher ZENK and other differential gene expression patterns compared to harmless heterospecific calls. These patterns are consistent with a perceptual non-equivalence in the auditory forebrain of adult male red-winged blackbirds in response to referential calls and the calls of their referents.
Effect of the new video laryngeal mask airway SaCoVLM on airway management in lateral laparoscopic urological surgery: A single center randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sun Yongtao , Zhang Min , Gao Xiaojun , Gao Zhongquan , Zou Ting , Guo Yongle , Liu Mengjie , Chen Lina , Zhang Xiaoning , Liu Yang , Feng Hai , Wang Yuelan
Published: January 2024

There are few pertinent studies about the application of laryngeal mask airways (LMAs) in lateral decubitus surgery. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of lateral position and pneumoperitoneum on oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP) and ventilation efficiency for the LMA SaCoVLM. Patients undergoing elective retroperitoneal laparoscopic urological surgery were randomized 1:1 to the Supreme group or SaCoVLM group. The primary outcome was the OLP with LMA insertion. The secondary outcomes were the first-attempt success rate, insertion time, adjustment times, gastric tube success rate, LMA alignment accuracy, LMA removal time, regurgitation or aspiration, LMA blood staining, and incidence of adverse events 24 h after surgery. We recruited 70 patients to complete the study. Regardless of lateral position and pneumoperitoneum, the OLP was greater in the SaCoVLM group (n = 35) than in the Supreme group (n = 35), with a median difference of 4–7 cmH2O. The first-attempt success rate of the SaCoVLM group was higher than that of the Supreme group (91.4% vs. 77.1%, risk ratio (RR): 1.19; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.46, P = 0.188). Thus, in the lateral position with pneumoperitoneum, although the new video LMA SaCoVLM has a higher OLP than the LMA Supreme, both devices provide sufficient ventilation efficiency.
Linking drought indices to atmospheric circulation in Svalbard, in the Atlantic sector of the High Arctic
Authors: Migała Krzysztof , Łupikasza Ewa , Osuch Marzena , Opała-Owczarek Magdalena , Owczarek Piotr
Published: January 2024

Based on long-term climatological data from Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard Airport—Longyearbyen and the Polish Polar Station at Hornsund, we undertook an analysis of drought indices on Spitsbergen Island, Svalbard, for the period 1979–2019. The features and causes of spatiotemporal variability of atmospheric drought in Svalbard were identified, as expressed by the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI). There were several-year periods with SPEI indicating the dominance of drought or wet conditions. The long-term variability in the annual and half-year (May–October) SPEI values showed a prevalence of droughts in the 1980s and the first decade of the twenty-first century, while wet seasons were frequent in the 1990s and in the second decade of the twenty-first century. The seasonal SPEIs were characteristic of interannual variability. In MAM and JJA, droughts were more frequent after 2000; during SON and DJF of the same period, the frequency of wet seasons increased. The most remarkable changes in the scale of the entire research period occurred in autumn when negative values of SPEI occurred more often in the first part of the period, and positive values dominated in the last 20 years. The long-term pattern of the variables in consecutive seasons between 1979 and 2019 indicates relationships between the SPEI and anomalies of precipitable water and somewhat weaker relationships with anomalies of sea level pressure. The three stations are located at distances of more than 200 km from each other in the northern (Ny-Ålesund), central (Longyearbyen) and southern parts of Svalbard (Hornsund), and the most extreme values of drought conditions depended on the atmospheric circulation which could have been modified by local conditions thus droughts developed under various circulation types depending on the station. However, some similarities were identified in the atmospheric circulation patterns favouring drought conditions at Ny-Ålesund and Hornsund, both having more maritime climates than Longyearbyen. Extremely dry seasons were favoured by anticyclonic conditions, particularly a high-pressure ridge (type Ka) centred over Svalbard, air advection from the eastern sector under an influence of cyclone and negative precipitable water anomalies. During wet seasons anomalies of precipitable water were positive and cyclonic conditions dominated. These results were corroborated by the frequency of regional circulation types during JJA and DJF with the lowest and highest values of SPEI.
A metabolomics perspective on 2 years of high-intensity training in horses
Authors: Johansson L. , Ringmark S. , Bergquist J. , Skiöldebrand E. , Jansson A.
Published: January 2024

The plasma metabolomic profile of elite harness horses subjected to different training programmes was explored. All horses had the same training programme from 1.5 until 2 years of age and then high-intensity training was introduced, with horses divided into high and low training groups. Morning blood samples were collected at 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3.5 years of age. The plasma was analysed using targeted absolute quantitative analysis and a combination of tandem mass spectrometry, flow-injection analysis and liquid chromatography. Differences between the two training groups were observed at 2 years of age, when 161 metabolites and sums and ratios were lower (e.g. ceramide and several triglycerides) and 51 were higher (e.g. aconitic acid, anserine, sum of PUFA cholesteryl esters and solely ketogenic AAs) in High compared with low horses. The metabolites aconitic acid, anserine, leucine, HArg synthesis and sum of solely ketogenic AAs increased over time, while beta alanine synthesis, ceramides and indole decreased. Therefore high-intensity training promoted adaptations linked to aerobic energy production and amino acid metabolism, and potentially also affected pH-buffering and vascular and insulin responses.
Single cell transcriptomic representation of social dominance in prefrontal cortex and the influence of preweaning maternal and postweaning social environment
Authors: Lopez Katherine , Baker Madelyn R. , Toth Miklos
Published: January 2024

Social dominance encompasses winning dyadic contests and gaining priority access to resources and reproduction. Dominance is influenced by environmental factors, particularly during early postnatal life and adolescence. A disinhibitory medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) microcircuit has been implicated in the expression of dominance in the “tube test” social competition paradigm in mice, but the neuroplasticity underlying dominance is not known. We previously reported that male pups raised by physically active (wheel-running, as opposed to sedentary) dams exhibit tube test dominance and increased reproductive fitness, and here we show that social isolation from weaning also increases dominance. By using single cell transcriptomics, we tested if increased dominance in these models is associated with a specific transcriptional profile in one or more cell-types in the mPFC. The preweaning maternal effect, but not postweaning social isolation, caused gene expression changes in pyramidal neurons. However, both the effect of maternal exercise and social isolation induced the coordinated downregulation of synaptic channel, receptor, and adhesion genes in parvalbumin positive (PV) interneurons, suggesting that development of dominance is accompanied by impaired PV interneuron-mediated inhibition of pyramidal cells. This study may help understand environmentally induced transcriptional plasticity in the PFC and its relationship to tube test dominance.
Integrative analysis of gene expression profiles of substantia nigra identifies potential diagnosis biomarkers in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Huang Junming , Li Bowen , Wei Huangwei , Li Chengxin , Liu Chao , Mi Hua , Chen Shaohua
Published: January 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease whose etiology is attributed to development of Lewy bodies and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Currently, there are no definitive diagnostic indicators for PD. In this study, we aimed to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers for PD and analyzed the impact of immune cell infiltrations on disease pathogenesis. The PD expression profile data for human SN tissue, GSE7621, GSE20141, GSE20159, GSE20163 and GSE20164 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for use in the training model. After normalization and merging, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using the Robust rank aggregation (RRA) analysis. Simultaneously, DEGs after batch correction were identified. Gene interactions were determined through venn Diagram analysis. Functional analyses and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were used to the identify hub genes, which were visualized through Cytoscape. A Lasso Cox regression model was employed to identify the potential diagnostic genes. The GSE20292 dataset was used for validation. The proportion of infiltrating immune cells in the samples were determined via the CIBERSORT method. Sixty-two DEGs were screened in this study. They were found to be enriched in nerve conduction, dopamine (DA) metabolism, and DA biosynthesis Gene Ontology (GO) terms. The PPI network and Lasso Cox regression analysis revealed seven potential diagnostic genes, namely SLC18A2, TAC1, PCDH8, KIAA0319, PDE6H, AXIN1, and AGTR1, were subsequently validated in peripheral blood samples obtained from healthy control (HC) and PD patients, as well as in the GSE20292 dataset. The results revealed the exceptional sensitivity and specificity of these genes in PD diagnosis and monitoring. Moreover, PD patients exhibited a higher number of plasma cells, compared to HC individuals. The SLC18A2, TAC1, PCDH8, KIAA0319, PDE6H, AXIN1, and AGTR1 are potential diagnostic biomarkers for PD. Our findings also reveal the essential roles of immune cell infiltration in both disease onset and trajectory.
Effect of pharmacological selectivity of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis
Authors: Sayour Alex Ali , Oláh Attila , Ruppert Mihály , Barta Bálint András , Merkely Béla , Radovits Tamás
Published: January 2024

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in type 2 diabetic (T2DM) patients. Pharmacological selectivity of these agents to SGLT2 over SGLT1 is highly variant, with unknown clinical relevance. Genetically reduced SGLT1—but not SGLT2—activity correlates with lower risk of heart failure and mortality, therefore additional non-selective SGLT1 inhibition might be beneficial. In this prespecified meta-analysis, we included 6 randomized, placebo-controlled cardiovascular outcome trials of SGLT2 inhibitors assessing MACE in 57,553 patients with T2DM. Mixed-effects meta-regression revealed that pharmacological selectivity of SGLT2 inhibitors (either as continuous or dichotomized variable) had no significant impact on most outcomes. However, lower SGLT2 selectivity correlated with significantly lower risk of stroke (pseudo-R2 = 78%; p = 0.011). Indeed, dual SGLT1/2 inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64–0.94), unlike selective agents (p for interaction = 0.018). The risk of diabetic ketoacidosis and genital infections was higher in both pharmacological groups versus placebo. However, hypotension occurred more often with non-selective SGLT2 inhibitors (odds ratio [OR], 1.87; 95% CI, 1.20–2.92) compared with selective agents (p for interaction = 0.044). In conclusion, dual SGLT1/2 inhibition reduces stroke in high-risk T2DM patients but has limited additional effect on other clinical outcomes.
Structural analysis of the Trypanosoma brucei EIF4E6/EIF4G5 complex reveals details of the interaction between unusual eIF4F subunits
Authors: Penteado Renato Ferras , da Silva Renata Santana , Moura Danielle Maria Nascimento , de Lima Gustavo Barbosa , Malvezzi Amaranta Muniz , Monteiro Tallyta Tâmara da Silva , Xavier Camila Cavalcanti , Vichier-Guerre Sophie , Dugué Laurence , Pochet Sylvie , Zanchin Nilson Ivo Tonin , Reis Christian Robson de Souza , de Melo Neto Osvaldo Pompílio , Guimarães Beatriz Gomes
Published: January 2024

Recognition of the mRNA 5′ end is a critical step needed for translation initiation. This step is performed by the cap binding protein eIF4E, which joins the larger eIF4G subunit to form the eIF4F complex. Trypanosomatids have a minimum of five different eIF4F-like complexes formed through specific but not well-defined interactions between four different eIF4E and five eIF4G homologues. The EIF4E6/EIF4G5 complex has been linked with the stage-specific translation of mRNAs encoding the major Trypanosoma brucei virulence factors. Here, to better define the molecular basis for the TbEIF4E6/TbEIF4G5 interaction, we describe the identification of the peptide interacting with TbEIF4E6 in the region comprising residues 79–166 of TbEIF4G5. The TbEIF4E6-TbEIF4G5_79-116 complex reconstituted with recombinant proteins is highly stable even in the absence of cap-4. The crystal structure of the complex was subsequently solved, revealing extensive interacting surfaces. Comparative analyses highlight the conservation of the overall structural arrangement of different eIF4E/eIF4G complexes. However, highly different interacting surfaces are formed with distinct binding contacts occurring both in the canonical and noncanonical elements within eIF4G and the respective eIF4E counterpart. These specific pairs of complementary interacting surfaces are likely responsible for the selective association needed for the formation of distinct eIF4F complexes in trypanosomatids.
Facilitation and competition deconstructed: a mechanistic modelling approach to the stress gradient hypothesis applied to drylands
Authors: Díaz-Sierra Rubén , Rietkerk Max , Verwijmeren Mart , Baudena Mara
Published: January 2024

Facilitative interactions among species are key in plant communities. While experimental tests support the Stress Gradient Hypothesis (SGH) as an association between facilitation and stress, whether the shape of net effects along stress gradients can be predicted is controversial, with no available mathematical modelling approaches. We proposed a novel test, using a modification of the R* model to study how negative and positive partial effects of plant interactions in drylands combine along two common stress gradients. We modelled different interactions: competition for water and light, amelioration of soil infiltration and/or grazing protection, obtaining that intensity and importance of facilitation did not generally increase along stress gradients, being dependent on the interaction type. While along the water stress gradient net interactions became more positive, reaching a maximum and then waning again, various outcomes were observed along the grazing gradient. Shape variety was mainly driven by the various shapes of the partial positive effects. Under resource stress, additive interaction effects can be expected, whereas when including grazing, the effects were non-additive. In the context of the SGH, deconstructing the effect of positive and negative interaction in a pairwise mechanistic models of drylands does not show a unique shape along stress gradients.
Single-shot quantitative phase-fluorescence imaging using cross-grating wavefront microscopy
Authors: Marthy Baptiste , Bénéfice Maëlle , Baffou Guillaume
Published: January 2024

The article introduces an optical microscopy technique capable of simultaneously acquiring quantitative fluorescence and phase (or equivalently wavefront) images with a single camera sensor, avoiding any delay between both images, or registration of images acquired separately. The method is based on the use of a 2-dimensional diffraction grating (aka cross-grating) positioned at a millimeter distance from a 2-color camera. Fluorescence and wavefront images are extracted from the two color channels of the camera, and retrieved by image demodulation. The applicability of the method is illustrated on various samples, namely fluorescent micro-beads, bacteria and mammalian cells.
Non-invasive assessment and visualization of Phytophthora cactorum infection in strawberry crowns using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tuomainen Teemu Valtteri , Toljamo Anna , Kokko Harri , Nissi Mikko Johannes
Published: January 2024

Phytophthora cactorum is an oomycete species that causes enormous losses on horticultural crops, including strawberries. The purpose of this work was to investigate the alterations caused by P. cactorum inoculation in hydroponically grown strawberry plantlets (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI). It was observed that with MRI, spatial and temporal progression of the infection could be observed in the crown using quantitative MR parameters, namely relaxation time maps. Relaxation times are numeric subject-specific properties that describe the MR signal behavior in an examined anatomical region. Elevated $$T_{2}$$

T
2

relaxation time values were observed inside the infected plant crowns with respect to the healthy references. The $$T_{2}$$

T
2

and $$T_{2}^{*}$$

T

2

∗

values of healthy plants were small in the crown region and further diminished during the development of the plant. Furthermore, elevated $$T_{1}$$

T
1

relaxation time values were seen in regions where P. cactorum progression was observed in corresponding plant dissection photographs. Quantitative susceptibility maps (QSM) were calculated to estimate the local magnetic field inhomogeneities. The QSM suggests magnetic susceptibility differences near the center of the pith. This study provides novel non-invasive information on the structure and development of strawberry plants and the effects caused by the P. cactorum infection.
Domain-wall dark pulse generation with SMF-GIMF-SMF structure as artificial saturable absorber
Authors: Chen Yu , Cheak Tiu Zian , Jin Tan Sin , Vinitha G. , Dimyati Kaharudin , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: January 2024

We experimentally demonstrated the generation of domain-wall dark pulse in an Erbium-doped fiber laser using the combination of a 10 cm graded index multimode fiber sandwiched by single mode fibers as artificial saturable absorber. The interaction of phase difference in grade index multimode fiber allowed the stable dual-wavelength oscillation in the cavity. The dual-wavelength centered at 1567.2 nm and 1569.4 nm produces the topological defect in temporal domain and achieved a dark pulse formation with repetition rate of 21.5 MHz. The highest average pulse energy is calculated as 769.6 pJ with pulse width of 5 ns. Throughout the operating pump power range, the average pulse energy and output power increase linearly, with R2 of 0.9999 and achieved the laser efficiency of 9.33%. From the measurement in frequency domain, the signal-to-noise ratio is measured as 49 dB. As compared to reported DW dark pulse works, the proposed structure only required a short length of multimode fiber, which allowed the domain-wall dark pulse to achieve higher pulse repetition rate. The venture of domain wall dark pulse is potentially to pave the foundation toward sustainable industrial growth.
Tonsillar cytotoxic CD4 T cells are involved in the control of EBV primary infection in children
Authors: Amarillo María Eugenia , Moyano Agustina , Ferressini Gerpe Natalia , De Matteo Elena , Preciado Maria Victoria , Chabay Paola
Published: January 2024

CD4 T cells play a key role in Epstein Barr virus (EBV) infection, by modulating latent antigen expression, and exhibiting cytotoxic and regulatory properties. Our aim was to evaluate the presence of Granzyme B (GZMB) and Foxp3 CD4 T cells at different EBV infection status and latency profiles. We examined CD4, GZMB, Foxp3, IL10, TGF-β, CD4-GZMB and CD4-Foxp3 expression at the tonsils of pediatric patients with different infective status and EBV latency profiles. CD4+, GZMB+, Foxp3+, CD4-GZMB+ and CD4-Foxp3+ cell counts were higher at the interfollicular region. Higher expression of CD4-GZMB was found in primary infected patients compared to healthy carriers. In patients that expressed latency III antigens, we demonstrated lower CD4+, CD4-GZMB+, CD4-Foxp3+ expression; a negative correlation between the immunoregulatory cytokine IL-10+ and GZMB+ as well as a positive correlation of IL-10+ and CD4+. In patients expressing the lytic protein BMRF1, a positive correlation of TGF-β+ with CD4-GZMB+ and CD4-Foxp3+ was observed. Our findings indicate that CD4-GZMB+ cells are involved in the restriction of primary EBV infection in pediatric patients, which could partially explain the lack of symptoms, whereas both CD4-GZMB+ and CD4-Foxp3+ cells could be involved in the modulation of latency.
Fabrication of high aspect ratio, non-line-of-sight vias in silicon carbide by a two-photon absorption method
Authors: Payne Jared E. , Nyholm Peter , Beazer Ryan , Eddy Joseph , Stevenson Hunter , Ferguson Brad , Schultz Stephen , Nielson Gregory N.
Published: January 2024

The future of Moore’s Law for high-performance integrated circuits (ICs) is going to be driven more by advanced packaging and three-dimensional (3D) integration than by simply decreasing transistor size. 3D ICs offer low-power consumption, high-performance and a smaller footprint compared to conventional 2D ICs. The key enabling technology to 3D integration is the interposer that provides interconnects to route signals between the chiplets that comprise the IC. However, the fabrication of high-aspect ratio through wafer vias (TWVs), that provide electrical and mechanical connection between chiplets on the top and bottom of the interposer, is one of the important challenges that limit interposer performance. Current fabrication technologies are limited by tapering effects and the need for direct line of sight to the fabrication surface. These limit the possible aspect ratios of vias and require large, complicated surface traces to connect the vias to the chiplets. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of high-aspect ratio, non-line-of-sight TWVs in silicon carbide (SiC). SiC provides better mechanical, chemical, and thermal performance than silicon (Si). The technique uses an electro-chemical etch process that utilizes two-photon absorption to create any arbitrary 3D structure in SiC allowing for direct, subsurface routing between chiplets.
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) deletion in myeloid cells augments cholestatic liver injury
Authors: Krishnan Anuradha , Ozturk Nazli Begum , Cutshaw Kaiyel A. , Guicciardi Maria Eugenia , Kitagataya Takashi , Olson Kirsta E. , Pavelko Kevin D. , Sherman William , Wixom Alexander Q. , Jalan-Sakrikar Nidhi , Baez-Faria Michelle , Gutierrez Florencia , Gores Gregory J.
Published: January 2024

Ductular reactive (DR) cells exacerbate cholestatic liver injury and fibrosis. Herein, we posit that tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) emanates from recruited macrophages and restrains DR cell expansion, thereby limiting cholestatic liver injury. Wild type (WT), Trailfl/fl and myeloid-specific Trail deleted (TrailΔmye) C57BL/6 mice were exposed to DDC diet-induced cholestatic liver injury, which induced hepatomegaly and liver injury as compared to control diet-fed mice. However, parameters of liver injury, fibrosis, and inflammation were all increased in the TrailΔmye mice as compared to the WT and Trailfl/fl mice. High dimensional mass cytometry indicated that cholestasis resulted in increased hepatic recruitment of subsets of macrophages and neutrophils in the TrailΔmye mice. Spatial transcriptomics analysis revealed that the PanCK+ cholangiocytes from TrailΔmye mice had increased expression of the known myeloid attractants S100a8, Cxcl5, Cx3cl1, and Cxcl1. Additionally, in situ hybridization of Cxcl1, a potent neutrophil chemoattractant, demonstrated an increased expression in CK19+ cholangiocytes of TrailΔmye mice. Collectively, these data suggest that TRAIL from myeloid cells, particularly macrophages, restrains a subset of DR cells (i.e., Cxcl1 positive cells), limiting liver inflammation and fibrosis. Reprogramming macrophages to express TRAIL may be salutary in cholestasis.
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms of long COVID
Authors: Klírová Monika , Adamová Andrea , Biačková Nina , Laskov Olga , Renková Veronika , Stuchlíková Zuzana , Odnohová Karolína , Novák Tomáš
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to assess the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the treatment of neuropsychiatric (NP) symptoms of the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), known as the long COVID. A double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled study compared the efficacy and safety of prefrontal cortex active tDCS to sham-tDCS in treating NP-PASC. Patients diagnosed with NP-PASC, with a Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS) score ≥ 40, were eligible for the study. Twenty tDCS sessions were administered within four weeks, with continuous, end-of-treatment, and follow-up measurements. The primary outcome was a change in the FIS at the end-of-treatment, analyzed in the intention-to-treat population. Data from 33 patients assigned to active (n = 16) or sham-tDCS (n = 17) were analyzed. After the treatment, a decrease in the FIS score was more pronounced in the sham than in the active group, yet the intergroup difference was insignificant (11.7 [95% CI −11.1 to 34.5], p = 0.6). Furthermore, no significant intergroup differences were observed regarding anxiety, depression, quality of life, and cognitive performance. The small cohort sample, differences in baseline FIS scores between groups (non-stratified randomization), or chosen stimulation parameters may have influenced our findings. However, it might also be possible that the expected mechanism of action of tDCS is insufficient to treat these conditions.
Genetic testing for fetal loss of heterozygosity using single nucleotide polymorphism array and whole-exome sequencing
Authors: Xue Huili , Yu Aili , Zhang Lin , Chen Lingji , Guo Qun , Lin Min , lin Na , Chen Xuemei , Xu Liangpu , Huang Hailong
Published: January 2024

The study explored the clinical significance of fetal loss of heterozygosity (LOH) identified by single-nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP array). We retrospectively reviewed data from pregnant women who underwent invasive diagnostic procedures at prenatal diagnosis centers in southeastern China from December 2016 to December 2021. SNP array was performed by the Affymetrix CytoScan 750 K array platform. Fetuses with LOH were further identified by parental verification, MS-MLPA, and/or trio whole-exome sequencing (trio-WES). The genetic results, fetal clinical manifestations, and perinatal outcome were analyzed. Of 11,062 fetuses, 106 (0.96%) had LOH exhibiting a neutral copy number, 88 (83.0%) had LOH in a single chromosome, whereas 18 (17.0%) had multiple LOHs on different chromosomes. Sixty-six fetuses had ultrasound anomalies (UAs), most frequently fetal growth restriction (18/66 (27.3%)). Parental SNP array verification was performed in 21 cases and trio-WES in 21 cases. Twelve cases had clinically relevant uniparental disomy, five had pathogenic variants, four had likely pathogenic variants, six had variants of unknown significance, and eight had identity by descent. The rate of adverse pregnancy outcomes in fetuses with LOH and UAs (24/66 (36.4%)) was higher than in those without UAs (6/40 (15.0%)) (p < 0.05). LOH is not uncommon. Molecular genetic testing techniques, including parental SNP array verification, trio-WES, methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, regular and systematic ultrasonic monitoring, and placental study, can accurately assess the prognosis and guide the management of the affected pregnancy.
Elevated tolerance of both short-term and continuous drought stress during reproductive stages by exogenous application of hydrogen peroxide on soybean
Authors: Basal Oqba , Zargar Tahoora Batool , Veres Szilvia
Published: January 2024

The global production of soybean, among other drought-susceptible crops, is reportedly affected by drought periods, putting more pressure on food production worldwide. Drought alters plants’ morphology, physiology and biochemistry. As a response to drought, reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations are elevated, causing cellular damage. However, lower concentrations of ROS were reported to have an alleviating role through up-regulating various defensive mechanisms on different levels in drought-stressed plants. This experiment was set up in a controlled environment to monitor the effects of exogenous spray of different (0, 1, 5 and 10 mM) concentrations of H2O2 on two soybean genotypes, i.e., Speeda (drought-tolerant), and Coraline (drought-susceptible) under severe drought stress conditions (induced by polyethylene glycol) during flowering stage. Furthermore, each treatment was further divided into two groups, the first group was kept under drought, whereas drought was terminated in the second group at the end of the flowering stage, and the plants were allowed to recover. After 3 days of application, drought stress significantly decreased chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b, total carotenoids, stomatal conductance, both optimal and actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm and Df/Fm, respectively), relative water content, specific leaf area, shoot length and dry weight, and pod number and fresh weight, but significantly increased the leaf concentration of both proline and total soluble sugars, the root length, volume and dry weight of both genotypes. The foliar application of 1 mM and 5 mM H2O2 on Speeda and Coraline, respectively enhanced most of the decreased traits measurably, whereas the 10 mM concentration did not. The group of treatments where drought was maintained after flowering failed to produce pods, regardless of H2O2 application and concentration, and gradually deteriorated and died 16 and 19 days after drought application on Coraline and Speeda, respectively. Overall, Speeda showed better performance under drought conditions. Low concentrations of foliar H2O2 could help the experimented soybean genotypes better overcome the influence of severe drought during even sensitive stages, such as flowering. Furthermore, our findings suggest that chlorophyll fluorescence and the cellular content of proline and soluble sugars in the leaves can provide clear information on the influence of both drought imposition and H2O2 application on soybean plants.
Plastiphily is linked to generic virulence traits of important human pathogenic fungi
Authors: Gkoutselis Gerasimos , Rohrbach Stephan , Harjes Janno , Brachmann Andreas , Horn Marcus A. , Rambold Gerhard
Published: January 2024

Fungi comprise relevant human pathogens, causing over a billion infections each year. Plastic pollution alters niches of fungi by providing trillions of artificial microhabitats, mostly in the form of microplastics, where pathogens might accumulate, thrive, and evolve. However, interactions between fungi and microplastics in nature are largely unexplored. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the assembly, architecture, and ecology of mycobiomes in soil (micro)plastispheres near human dwellings in a model- and network-based metagenome study combined with a global-scale trait data annotation. Our results reveal a strong selection of important human pathogens, in an idiosyncratic, otherwise predominantly neutrally assembled plastisphere, which is strongly linked to generic fungal virulence traits. These findings substantiate our niche expansion postulate, demonstrate the emergence of plastiphily among fungal pathogens and imply the existence of a plastisphere virulence school, underpinning the need to declare microplastics as a factor of global health.
Controlling the morphologies and crystal growth orientations of H-ZSM-5: their impact on the structure-diffusion-performance relationship in the methanol-to-propylene reaction
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Xiaohu , Wu Zhiwei , Li Zhikai , Yong Xiaojing , Gu Yanlong , Wang Jianguo
Published: January 2024

The superior performance of the nano-sheet ZSM-5 was attributed to its higher distribution ratio of framework Al in the straight and sinusoidal channel, faster higher diffusion rate along the b axis orientation, and fewer framework defects.
Association between adequate dietary protein and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with selective glomerular hypofiltration syndrome
Authors: Shen Ruming , Xu Zhongjiao , Lin Li , Shen Jiayi , Hu Wuming , Lv Lingchun , Wei Tiemin
Published: January 2024

We studied how protein intake and sources affect selective glomerular hypofiltration syndrome patients' mortality. More protein (mainly from non-red meat) lowered death risk by 40% (all-cause) and 88% (cardiovascular).
Lactic acid bacteria modulate the gastrointestinal digestive behavior of soy glycinin and correlation with its immunoreactivity: a peptidomic study
Authors: Liu Zhen , Fu Yumeng , Azarpazhooh Elham , Ajami Marjan , Li Wei , Rui Xin
Published: January 2024

Lactic acid bacterial fermentation helps reduce the immunoreactivity of soy glycinin.
Bipyridine-containing π-conjugated polymers bearing optically active amide groups: mechanistic aspects of formation of chiral higher-order structures
Authors: Sotani Taichi , Otoba Mai , Hosotani Mio , Hayashi Tomohiro , Sogawa Hiromitsu , Sanda Fumio
Published: January 2024

A helically foldable bipyridine-containing poly(phenyleneethynylene) was synthesized by the Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling polymerization of N-(3,5-diethynylbenzoyl)-l-alanine dodecyl ester with 4,4′-dibromo-2,2′-bipyridine.
Molecular aggregation by hydrogen bonding in cold-crystallization behavior of mixed nucleobases analyzed by temperature-controlled infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Honda Akinori , Nozawa Ryo , Miyamura Kazuo
Published: January 2024

The cold crystallization behavior and hydrogen bonding of nucleobases were analyzed by temperature-controlled infrared spectroscopy.
FeNi decorated nitrogen-doped hollow carbon spheres as ultra-stable bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst for rechargeable zinc–air battery with 2.7% decay after 300 hours cycling
Authors: Lun Shengjie , Wang HanBin , Deng Yijing , Cui Jinting , Liang Pei , Wang Kaiwen , Lv Lin , Wan Houzhao , Wang Hao
Published: January 2024

The Zn–air battery assembled by the bifunctional FeNi@HMCS electrocatalyst displayed a maximum power density of 181.8 mW cm−2 and superior stability for over 300 hours.
A metal-free, eco-friendly protocol for the oxidative halogenation of aromatic compounds by using highly efficient and reusable graphene oxide
Authors: Bhise Rupali S. , Ghorpade Prashant V. , Shankarling Ganapati S.
Published: January 2024

Graphene oxide (GO), a carbocatalyst, is explored for its catalytic activity in halogenation reactions of active aromatics.
Switching the proton-coupled electron transfer mechanism for non-canonical tyrosine residues in a de novo protein
Authors: Nilsen-Moe Astrid , Reinhardt Clorice R. , Huang Ping , Agarwala Hemlata , Lopes Rosana , Lasagna Mauricio , Glover Starla , Hammes-Schiffer Sharon , Tommos Cecilia , Hammarström Leif
Published: January 2024

Proton-coupled electron transfer reactions of tyrosine are instrumental to many redox reactions in nature. By balancing the driving forces for electron and proton transfer, the mechanism can be changed from step-wise to concerted transfer (CEPT).
Multi-substituted trifluoromethyl alkene construction via gold-catalyzed fluoroarylation of gem-difluoroallenes
Authors: Li Zhi-Qiang , Tang Hai-Jun , Wang Zaixin , Wang Cheng-Qiang , Feng Chao
Published: January 2024

A visible-light-promoted gold-catalyzed fluoroarylation of gem-difluoroallenes is developed. This reaction proceeds in a highly stereo- and regioselective manner and enables a facile construction of tri- and tetra-substituted trifluoromethyl alkenes.
Intermittent proton bursts of single lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Gao Jia , Zhou Kai , Li Haoran , Li Yaohua , Yang Kairong , Wang Wei
Published: January 2024

The proton release dynamics of single Lactobacillus plantarum is coupled with two types of proton efflux kinetics: continuous proton release and intermittent, burst-like proton release with a timescale of several seconds.
Dual role of nitroarenes as electrophiles and arylamine surrogates in Buchwald–Hartwig-type coupling for C–N bond construction
Authors: Lei Zhiguo , Yao Jiaxin , Xiao Yuxuan , Liu Wenbo H. , Yu Lin , Duan Wengui , Li Chao-Jun
Published: January 2024

A reductive and denitrative amination of nitroarenes has been developed, allowing the highly selective synthesis of various di- and triarylamines. The protocol employed synthetically upstream nitroarenes as both the electrophiles and amine sources.
Supramolecular nanoarchitectonics of propionylated polyrotaxanes with bulky nitrobenzyl stoppers for light-triggered drug release
Authors: Zhang Shunyao , Tamura Atsushi , Yui Nobuhiko
Published: January 2024

Photodegradable polyrotaxanes modified with propionyl groups were designed to form self-assembled nanoparticles loaded with hydrophobic drugs. The nanoparticles rapidly collapsed upon UV irradiation, leading to accelerating the release of the drugs.
Correction: Electrochemical and X-ray structural evidence of multiple molybdenum precursor candidates from a reported non-aqueous electrodeposition of molybdenum disulfide
Authors: George Tanner , Brosseau Christa L. , Masuda Jason D.
Published: January 2024

Correction for ‘Electrochemical and X-ray structural evidence of multiple molybdenum precursor candidates from a reported non-aqueous electrodeposition of molybdenum disulfide’ by Tanner George et al., RSC Adv., 2023, 13, 32199–32216. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3ra04605b
Towards practical implementation of molecular communication: A cost‐effective experimental platform based on the human circulatory system
Authors: Bayat Mohammad , Mostafavi Mohammad , Arabameri Abazar
Published: January 2024

Recently, there have been numerous studies exploring the field of molecular communication (MC) systems. However, due to the high cost and limited availability of advanced micro/nano‐scale equipment, most of these works remain purely theoretical, with only a few being examined through experimental platforms. Additionally, the absence of a suitable model for flow‐assisted MC‐based systems poses another significant challenge. This research focuses on the potential applications of MC technology within the human body. To address the limitations mentioned above, a closed‐loop experimental platform based on the human circulatory system is proposed. This platform offers a cost‐effective and accessible solution for studying MC systems. The implementation process involves a brief discussion about the circulatory system model. By varying flow rates and the quantity of released information particles, channel impulse responses are obtained. Based on the observed experimental data, the authors have successfully developed a new theoretical model that accurately fits the experimental data. The model demonstrates a strong level of agreement with the observed results. This model demonstrates its suitability for flow‐assisted MC‐based systems.
Transiting exoplanets with the Mid-InfraRed Instrument on board JWST: From simulations to observations
Authors: Dyrek A. , Ducrot E. , Lagage P.-O. , Tremblin P. , Kendrew S. , Bouwman J. , Bouffet R.
Published: January 2024

Context. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has now started its exploration of exoplanetary worlds. In particular, the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) with its Low-Resolution Spectrometer (LRS) carries out transit, eclipse, and phase-curve spectroscopy of exoplanetary atmospheres with an unprecedented precision in a so far almost uncharted wavelength range.

Aims. The precision and significance in the detection of molecules in exoplanetary atmospheres relies on a thorough understanding of the instrument itself and on accurate data reduction methods. This paper aims to provide a clear description of the instrumental systematics that affect observations of transiting exoplanets through the use of simulations.

Methods. We carried out realistic simulations of transiting-exoplanet observations with the MIRI LRS instrument that included the model of the exoplanet system, the optical path of the telescope, the MIRI detector performances, and instrumental systematics and drifts that could alter the atmospheric features we are meant to detect in the data. After we introduce our pipeline, we show its performance on the transit of L 168-9b, a super-Earth-sized exoplanet observed during the commissioning of the MIRI instrument.

Results. This paper provides a better understanding of the data themselves and of the best practices in terms of reduction and analysis through comparisons between simulations and real data. We show that simulations validate the current data-analysis methods. Simulations also highlight instrumental effects that impact the accuracy of our current spectral extraction techniques. These simulations are proven to be essential in the preparation of JWST observation programs and help us to assess the detectability of various atmospheric and surface scenarios.
Searching for X-ray counterparts of degree-wide TeV halos around middle-aged pulsars with SRG/eROSITA
Authors: Khokhriakova A. , Becker W. , Ponti G. , Sasaki M. , Li B. , Liu R.-Y.
Published: January 2024

Context. Extended gamma-ray TeV emission (TeV halos) has been detected around middle-aged pulsars. A proposed model to explain these TeV halos is that electrons from a degree-wide pulsar wind nebula (PWN) get up-scattered by cosmic microwave background photons through inverse Compton processes. However, no X-ray degree-wide faint diffuse PWNe have been found around these middle-aged pulsars in previous X-ray observations.

Aims. We performed a search for degree-wide PWNe around Geminga, PSR B0656+14, B0540+23, J0633+0632, and J0631+1036 using data from the first four consecutive Spectrum Roentgen Gamma/eROSITA all-sky surveys. In order to better understand the mechanisms underlying the formation of TeV halos, we investigated the magnetic field strength within an area of 1° in radius centred on those pulsars.

Methods. To achieve our goals, we selected a list of suitable candidate pulsars in the eROSITA-DE part of the sky and applied data reduction techniques to process the eROSITA data. We then performed a spatial analysis of the regions around selected pulsars.

Results. We do not detect any degree-wide diffuse emission driven by rotation-powered pulsars around Geminga, PSR B0656+14, B0540+23, J0633+0632, or J0631+1036. Indeed, close inspection of the data shows that the pulsars of interest are all embedded in diffuse emission from supernova remnants such as the Monogem Ring or the Rosetta Nebula, while PSR B0540+23 is located ~2.5° away from the Crab pulsar, which is exceptionally bright, causing its X-ray emission to spread over a significant area up to the position of PSR B0540+23 and therefore strongly diminishes our capacity to search for degree-wide bright diffuse X-ray emission.

Conclusions. Despite the non-detection of any degree-wide PWN surrounding the analysed pulsars, we set flux upper limits to provide useful information on magnetic field strength and its spatial distribution around those pulsars, providing additional constraints on the proposed theory for the formation of TeV halos around pulsars.