bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hegemony of Brotherhood: The Birth of Soviet Multinational Literature, 1922–1932
Authors: Dobrenko Evgeny
Published: May 2023

The formation of Soviet multinational literature is usually attributed to 1934, the activities of Gor΄kii and the created Union of Soviet Writers. In fact, institutionally, the project of Soviet multinational literature began to be implemented within the framework of the VAPP (All-Union showcase of the RAPP, the Russian Association of Proletarian Writers) immediately after the creation of the USSR in 1922. Since in 1932 the RAPP was dissolved and condemned, it became politically disadvantageous to associate such an ideologically important project with it, and the entire dramatic history of the creation of Soviet multinational literature of the previous decade was erased and almost never mentioned (or mentioned in a highly distorted form). Based entirely on new archival sources, this article traces and documents for the first time this formative period in the institutionalization of Soviet multinational literature.
The Lithuanian Version of Socialist Realism: An Imposed Doctrine and Incorporated Tradition
Authors: Satkauskytė Dalia
Published: May 2023

The process of imposing socialist realism on Lithuanian literature, which became a part of the Soviet multinational project after the Soviet occupation in 1940, does not directly follow the general pattern of transferring the Russian model. The agents of the Soviet national literary field not only transposed standard socialist plots to local realia, but also had to transform them in order to legitimate occupation, to reject the legacy of the independent Lithuanian republic, and to reinterpret anti-Soviet resistance. In the process of inventing the national sources of socialist realism and forging “the most advanced artistic method,” overcoming the constraints of the Lithuanian literary tradition proved impossible. This article discusses the encounter of inherited literary structures with the external model and its effects on the development of Lithuanian socialist realism.
Do Real and Invented Scandals Fuel Beliefs in Conspiracy Theories?
Authors: Wagner-Egger Pascal , de Oliveira Fernandes Daniel , Carrel Joana , Delouvée Sylvain
Published: May 2023

Abstract: Introduction: Conspiracy believers often claim that they believe in conspiracy theories not on irrational grounds, as scholars often argue, but because of the real scandals and real conspiracies that have occurred in history. Methods: We tested whether reminding people of real scandals in the political, economic, or scientific domain and exposition to invented scandals (i.e., that did not occur) increase beliefs in conspiracy theories. A secondary research question was whether conspiracy beliefs positively relate to differentiating between real and invented scandals. Results: Our results showed that reminding people of real scandals and exposing them to invented scandals did not affect their conspiracy beliefs. Higher conspiracy believers were slightly better than lower conspiracy believers at recognizing invented scandals but somewhat worse at recognizing real scandals. Participants from left-wing political orientation were also marginally better than those with right-wing orientation at identifying real scandals. Discussion/conclusion: Reminding people of real and invented scandals did not have a short-term effect on conspiracist beliefs. This article supports the argument that conspiracy theories are not helpful for social critique, as higher believers in conspiracy theories were not better than lower believers at recognizing actual scandals.
Relationship Between Crustal Structure and Plate Convergence Around the Izu Collision Zone in Central Japan
Authors: Abe Yuki , Honda Ryou , Ishise Motoko , Sakai Shin'ichi , Yukutake Yohei , Doke Ryosuke
Published: May 2023

We conducted a receiver function (RF) analysis to understand the convergence process in and around the Izu collision zone. We calculated the P‐ and S‐wave RFs and converted them to depth using a three‐dimensional (3D) regional tomography model and regionally estimated near‐surface structure. We detected the Moho of the Philippine Sea Plate and determined its 3D geometry in and around the collision zone. In addition, we considered the 3D seismic velocity model, which was previously determined using seismic tomography, and we complemented a part of the Moho that we did not detect using the RFs. Based on the geometry of the upper surface of the Philippine Sea Plate determined in previous studies, the crust is >35 km thick beneath the Izu Peninsula and collision zone and becomes thinner (<20 km) moving east of the collision zone. Thus, the thick crust along the Izu‐Bonin arc collides, and the thin forearc crust subducts. A stable slip surface was previously assumed to exist at a 15–20 km depth beneath the Izu Peninsula and the collision zone. This study indicates that the surface should exist within the crust of the Philippine Sea Plate.
Zircon and Apatite U‐Pb Constraints on the Tectonic Affinity and Metamorphic History of the Blueschist‐Facies Ambelakia Unit, Mt. Ossa, Greece
Authors: Hinshaw Emily R. , Stockli Daniel F. , Soukis Konstantinos
Published: May 2023

In the Aegean region, the Cycladic Blueschist Unit (CBU) and the Ambelakia unit (Mt. Ossa, Thessaly, Greece) represent early Cenozoic subduction‐related HP‐LT metamorphic complexes exhumed in the back‐arc of the Hellenic subduction zone. The Ambelakia unit has been linked to the classic CBU in the Cyclades; however, the tectonic affinity, structural position, nature of the protolith, or timing of metamorphism for these rocks in eastern Thessaly remains largely unresolved. This study provides detailed new insights into both the provenance, protolith age, and tectonic affinity of the Pelagonian, Ambelakia, and Olympos‐Ossa tectonic units by integrating U‐Pb detrital zircon (DZ) and detrital apatite (DA) data in a structural context. DZ results suggest the existence of distinct metasedimentary units, spanning in depositional age from Carboniferous to Late Cretaceous, with provenance signatures that support a correlation with the classic CBU and strengthen the argument for a similar pre‐subduction tectonic relationship. Depth‐profiling analysis reveals metamorphic rims that record HP‐LT metamorphism in the Ossa Ambelakia during the Paleocene‐Eocene. Apatite U‐Pb data from the metasedimentary units preserve a detrital signature similar to the DZ signatures, indicating that apatites were not reset (<450 C) nor recrystallized during subduction metamorphism. These new data suggest that the Ambelakia unit is a lateral equivalent of the CBU subduction complex; however, this unit experienced distinctly lower pressure and temperature conditions during metamorphism than the along‐strike classic CBU.
Aerobic bacteria produce nitric oxide via denitrification and promote algal population collapse
Authors: Abada Adi , Beiralas Roni , Narvaez Delia , Sperfeld Martin , Duchin-Rapp Yemima , Lipsman Valeria , Yuda Lilach , Cohen Bar , Carmieli Raanan , Ben-Dor Shifra , Rocha Jorge , Huang Zhang Irene , Babbin Andrew R , Segev Einat
Published: May 2023

Microbial interactions govern marine biogeochemistry. These interactions are generally considered to rely on exchange of organic molecules. Here we report on a novel inorganic route of microbial communication, showing that algal-bacterial interactions between Phaeobacter inhibens bacteria and Gephyrocapsa huxleyi algae are mediated through inorganic nitrogen exchange. Under oxygen-rich conditions, aerobic bacteria reduce algal-secreted nitrite to nitric oxide (NO) through denitrification, a well-studied anaerobic respiratory mechanism. The bacterial NO is involved in triggering a cascade in algae akin to programmed cell death. During death, algae further generate NO, thereby propagating the signal in the algal population. Eventually, the algal population collapses, similar to the sudden demise of oceanic algal blooms. Our study suggests that the exchange of inorganic nitrogen species in oxygenated environments is a potentially significant route of microbial communication within and across kingdoms.
Nighttime home blood pressure lowering effect of esaxerenone in patients with uncontrolled nocturnal hypertension: the EARLY-NH study
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Nishizawa Masafumi , Kato Mitsutoshi , Ishii Hajime , Uchiyama Kazuaki , Nagai Michiaki , Takahashi Nobuo , Asakura Taro , Shiraiwa Toshihiko , Yoshida Tetsuro , Kaneshiro Mizuki , Taguchi Takashi , Shiosakai Kazuhito , Sugimoto Kotaro
Published: May 2023

There is limited evidence on the blood pressure (BP)-lowering effect of esaxerenone on home BP, including nighttime BP. Using two newly developed nocturnal home BP monitoring devices (brachial and wrist), this multicenter, open-label, prospective study investigated the nighttime home BP-lowering effect of esaxerenone in patients with uncontrolled nocturnal hypertension being treated with an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) or calcium-channel blocker (CCB). In total, 101 patients were enrolled. During the 12-week study period, change in nighttime home systolic/diastolic BP from baseline to end of treatment measured by the brachial device was −12.9/−5.4 mmHg in the total population and −16.2/−6.6 and −10.0/−4.4 mmHg in the ARB and CCB subcohorts, respectively (all p < 0.001). For the wrist device, the change was −11.7/−5.4 mmHg in the total population and −14.6/−6.2 and −8.3/−4.5 mmHg in each subcohort, respectively (all p < 0.001). Similar significant reductions were shown for morning and bedtime home BP and office BP. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, and cardio-ankle vascular index improved in the total population and each subcohort. Incidences of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and drug-related TEAEs were 38.6% and 16.8%, respectively; most were mild or moderate. The most frequent drug-related TEAEs were associated with serum potassium elevation (hyperkalemia, 9.9%; blood potassium increased, 3.0%); however, no new safety concerns were raised. Esaxerenone was effective in lowering nighttime home BP as well as morning and bedtime home BP and office BP, safe, and showed organ-protective effects in patients with uncontrolled nocturnal hypertension. Caution is warranted regarding elevated serum potassium levels.
VinDr-Mammo: A large-scale benchmark dataset for computer-aided diagnosis in full-field digital mammography
Authors: Nguyen Hieu T. , Nguyen Ha Q. , Pham Hieu H. , Lam Khanh , Le Linh T. , Dao Minh , Vu Van
Published: May 2023

Mammography, or breast X-ray imaging, is the most widely used imaging modality to detect cancer and other breast diseases. Recent studies have shown that deep learning-based computer-assisted detection and diagnosis (CADe/x) tools have been developed to support physicians and improve the accuracy of interpreting mammography. A number of large-scale mammography datasets from different populations with various associated annotations and clinical data have been introduced to study the potential of learning-based methods in the field of breast radiology. With the aim to develop more robust and more interpretable support systems in breast imaging, we introduce VinDr-Mammo, a Vietnamese dataset of digital mammography with breast-level assessment and extensive lesion-level annotations, enhancing the diversity of the publicly available mammography data. The dataset consists of 5,000 mammography exams, each of which has four standard views and is double read with disagreement (if any) being resolved by arbitration. The purpose of this dataset is to assess Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) and breast density at the individual breast level. In addition, the dataset also provides the category, location, and BI-RADS assessment of non-benign findings. We make VinDr-Mammo publicly available as a new imaging resource to promote advances in developing CADe/x tools for mammography interpretation.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of the spotted alfalfa aphid Therioaphis trifolii
Authors: Huang Tianyu , Liu Yang , He Kang , Francis Frédéric , Wang Bing , Wang Guirong
Published: May 2023

The spotted alfalfa aphid (SAA, Therioaphis trifolii) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is a destructive pest of cultivated alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) that leads to large financial losses in the livestock industry around the world. Here, we present a chromosome-scale genome assembly of T. trifolii, the first genome assembly for the aphid subfamily Calaphidinae. Using PacBio long-read sequencing, Illumina sequencing, and Hi-C scaffolding techniques, a 541.26 Mb genome was generated, with 90.01% of the assembly anchored into eight scaffolds, and the contig and scaffold N50 are 2.54 Mb and 44.77 Mb, respectively. BUSCO assessment showed a completeness score of 96.6%. A total of 13,684 protein-coding genes were predicted. The high-quality genome assembly of T. trifolii not only provides a genomic resource for the more complete analysis of aphid evolution, but also provides insights into the ecological adaptation and insecticide resistance of T. trifolii.
Health-related quality of life among thalassemia patients in Bangladesh using the SF-36 questionnaire
Authors: Hossain Md Jubayer , Islam Md Wahidul , Munni Ummi Rukaiya , Gulshan Rubaiya , Mukta Sumaiya Akter , Miah Md Sharif , Sultana Sabia , Karmakar Mousumi , Ferdous Jannatul , Islam Mohammad Ariful
Published: May 2023

Thalassemia is one of the most common autosomal recessive hereditary blood disorders worldwide, especially in developing countries, including Bangladesh. Thus, this study aimed to determine HRQoL and its determinants of thalassemia patients (TP) in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional survey was performed on 356 randomly selected thalassemia patients. Participants were invited to face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages), independent t-test, ANOVA, and multivariate (linear and logistic regression) analysis was performed to analyze the data. Our demographic data showed that among 356 patients, 54% and 46% were male and female, respectively, with an average age of 19.75 (SD = 8.02) years. Most were transfusion-dependent (91%), 26% had comorbidities, and 52% were from low-income families. In the case of HRQoL, male patients showed significantly higher scores of bodily pains and physical health summaries than female patients. Lower income, high blood transfusion status, disease severity, comorbidities, and medical expenses (p < 0.05; CI 95%) are significantly associated with lower SF-36 scores. This study found an association between lower income, blood transfusion, disease severity, comorbidities, as well as medical expenses, and the deterioration of HRQoL among TP. Male patients experienced poorer HRQoL than females. National action plans are required to guarantee the holistic welfare of thalassemia patients.
Robust tobacco smoking self-report in two cohorts: pregnant women or men and women living with or without HIV
Authors: Smith Marie-Soleil R. , Saberi Sara , Ajaykumar Abhinav , Zhu Mayanne M. T. , Gadawski Izabelle , Sattha Beheroze , Maan Evelyn J. , Van Shalkwyk Julie , Elwood Chelsea , Pick Neora , Murray Melanie C. M. , Boucoiran Isabelle , Money Deborah M. , Côté Hélène C. F.
Published: May 2023

Understanding the true burden of tobacco smoking on adverse pregnancy outcomes is critical in generating appropriate interventions to improve outcomes. Self-reporting of human behaviour that is associated with stigma is associated with underreporting in general and may bias the impact of smoking in studies; however, self-reporting is frequently the most practical method of gleaning this information. The objective of this study was to evaluate concordance between self-reported smoking and concentrations of plasma cotinine, a biomarker of smoking, among participants enrolled in two related HIV cohorts. A total of 100 pregnant women (76 living with HIV [LWH] and 24 negative controls) in their third trimester, and 100 men and non-pregnant women (43 LWH and 57 negative controls) were included. Among all participants, 43 pregnant women (49% LWH and 25% negative controls) and 50 men and non-pregnant women (58% LWH and 44% negative controls) were self-reported smokers. The odds of discordance between self-reported smoking and cotinine levels were not significantly different between self-reported smokers and non-smokers, nor between pregnant women and others, but were significantly increased, regardless of self-reported status, among people LWH compared to negative controls. The overall concordance between plasma cotinine and self-reported data among all participants was 94% with a sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 96%, respectively. Taken together, these data demonstrate that participant surveying in a non-judgemental context can lead to accurate and robust self-report smoking data among both persons LWH and not, including in the context of pregnancy.
Prediction formulae of sagittal alignment in thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis after osteotomy
Authors: Luo Jianzhou , Yang Zili , Duan Chunguang , Feng Xujiao , Tan Lei , Wei Yanzhe , Jiang Li , Wu Tailin
Published: May 2023

To construct and validate prediction formulae of sagittal alignment in thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis (AS) after osteotomy. A total of 115 AS patients who suffered from thoracolumbar kyphosis and underwent osteotomy were enrolled, with 85 patients in derivation group and 30 patients in validation group. Radiographic parameters were measured on lateral radiographs, including thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), T1 pelvic angel (TPA), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), osteotomized vertebral angle, pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), and PI and LL mismatch (PI-LL). Prediction formulae of SS, PT, TPA and SVA were established; and their effectiveness was evaluated. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the two groups (p > 0.05). In derivation group, LL and PI-LL were correlated with SS, and were then used to establish the prediction formula of SS[SS = − 12.791–0.765 × (LL) + 0.357 × (PI-LL), R2 = 68.3%]; PI and PI-LL were correlated with PT, and the prediction formula of PT were thus established[PT = 12.108 + 0.402 × (PI-LL) + 0.252 × (PI), R2 = 56.8%]; PT, PI-LL and LL were correlated with TPA, and were used to establish the prediction formula of TPA[TPA = 0.225 + 0.597 × (PT) + 0.464 × (PI-LL)-0.161 × (LL), R2 = 87.4%]; PT, PI-LL and age were correlated with SVA, and were used to establish the prediction formula of SVA[SVA = 36.157 + 2.790 × (PI-LL) + 1.657 × (Age)-1.813 × (PT), R2 = 41.5%]. In validation group, the predictive SS, PT, TPA and SVA were basically consistent with corresponding real values; and the mean error between predictive values and real values was of 1.3° in SS, 1.2° in PT, 1.1° in TPA and 8.6 mm in SVA. Postoperative SS, PT, TPA and SVA could be predicted with PI and the planned LL and PI-LL using prediction formulae, providing a method for AS kyphosis to plan postoperative sagittal alignment. Change of pelvic posture after osteotomy was quantitatively evaluated using the formulae.
Atretic preovulatory follicles could be precursors of ovarian lutein cysts in the pig
Authors: Ziecik Adam J. , Likszo Pawel , Klos Jan , Gromadzka-Hliwa Katarzyna , Knapczyk-Stwora Katarzyna , Peltoniemi Olli , Gajewski Zdzislaw , Kaczmarek Monika M.
Published: May 2023

Ovarian cysts contribute to reduced reproductive performance in pigs. Unfortunately, the mechanism of lutein cysts formation remains unknown. Here, we compared the endocrine and molecular milieus of intact, healthy preovulatory follicles (PF), gonadotropin (eCG/hCG)-induced healthy and atretic-like PF, as well as gonadotropin-provoked and spontaneous ovarian cysts in gilts. Several endocrine and molecular indicators and microRNA were compared in walls of PF and cysts. Intact and healthy PF, showed high estradiol/androstendione and low progesterone levels associated with CYP17A1, HSD17B1, and CYP19A1 elevation and reduced StAR/HSD3B1 protein expression. In contrast, low estradiol/androstendione and high progesterone concentrations, accompanied by decreased CYP17A1, HSD17B1, CYP19A1 and increased HSD3B1 protein abundance, appeared in atretic-like PF, gonadotropin-induced and spontaneous cysts. High progesterone receptor (PGR) protein abundance was maintained in intact and healthy PF, while it dropped in atretic-like PF, gonadotropins-induced and spontaneous cysts. The atretic PF showed high level of TNFα compared to healthy PF. In conclusion, follicular lutein cysts could be recruited from atretic-like PF with lost estrogenic milieu and inability to ovulate. Ovulatory cascade was presumably disrupted by a low PGR and high TNFα levels associated with earlier luteinization of follicular walls. These results suggest a novel mechanism of lutein ovarian cysts development in pigs and, perhaps, other species.
Factors influencing axial elongation in myopic children using overnight orthokeratology
Authors: Huang Zhu , Zhao Wei , Mao Ying-zheng , Hu Shan , Du Chi-Xin
Published: May 2023

Several factors influence axial length in children with myopia treated using overnight orthokeratology. To identify these factors, this retrospective study collected axial length and corneal aberration data on 78 eyes before and 1-year after orthokeratology. Patients were divided according to axial elongation (cut-off, 0.25 mm/year). Baseline characteristics included age, sex, spherical equivalent refraction, pupil diameter, axial length, and orthokeratology lens type. Corneal shape effects were compared through tangential difference maps. Group differences in higher-order aberrations of a 4 mm zone were compared at baseline and 1-year following therapy. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the variables determined for axial elongation. Significant differences between both groups included the initial age of wearing orthokeratology lenses, type of orthokeratology lens, size of central flattening area, corneal total surface C12 (1-year), corneal total surface C8 (1-year), corneal total surface spherical aberration (SA) (1-year root mean square [RMS] values), change in total corneal surface C12, and change in front and total corneal surface SA (RMS values). The age when wearing an orthokeratology lens was the most important factor influencing axial length in children with orthokeratology-treated myopia, followed by lens type and change in the C12 of the total corneal surface.
Ceramide present in cholangiocarcinoma-derived extracellular vesicle induces a pro-inflammatory state in monocytes
Authors: Oliviero Barbara , Dei Cas Michele , Zulueta Aida , Maiello Roberta , Villa Alessandro , Martinelli Carla , Del Favero Elena , Falleni Monica , Montavoci Linda , Varchetta Stefania , Mele Dalila , Donadon Matteo , Soldani Cristiana , Franceschini Barbara , Maestri Marcello , Piccolo Gaetano , Barabino Matteo , Bianchi Paolo Pietro , Banales Jesus M. , Mantovani Stefania , Mondelli Mario U. , Caretti Anna
Published: May 2023

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare cancer characterized by a global increasing incidence. Extracellular vesicles (EV) contribute to many of the hallmarks of cancer through transfer of their cargo molecules. The sphingolipid (SPL) profile of intrahepatic CCA (iCCA)-derived EVs was characterized by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. The effect of iCCA-derived EVs as mediators of inflammation was assessed on monocytes by flow cytometry. iCCA-derived EVs showed downregulation of all SPL species. Of note, poorly-differentiated iCCA-derived EVs showed a higher ceramide and dihydroceramide content compared with moderately-differentiated iCCA-derived EVs. Of note, higher dihydroceramide content was associated with vascular invasion. Cancer-derived EVs induced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in monocytes. Inhibition of synthesis of ceramide with Myriocin, a specific inhibitor of the serine palmitoyl transferase, reduced the pro-inflammatory activity of iCCA-derived EVs, demonstrating a role for ceramide as mediator of inflammation in iCCA. In conclusion, iCCA-derived EVs may promote iCCA progression by exporting the excess of pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory ceramides.
The inflammatory prognostic index as a potential predictor of prognosis in metastatic gastric cancer
Authors: Ozveren Ahmet , Erdogan Atike Pinar , Ekinci Ferhat
Published: May 2023

Clinical studies aimed at identifying effective and simple prognostic markers for gastric cancer are still being carried out. Inflammatory prognostic index (IPI) is being recognized as a promising prognostic marker in patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. To evaluate the prognostic utility of IPI in stage 4 gastric cancer. A total of 152 patients with stage 4 gastric cancer, whose laboratory parameters, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) data could be accessed, were evaluated. Kaplan Meier analysis was used for survival analyses. Hazard ratios were expressed with 95% CI values. All methods were performed in accordance with the relevant guidelines and regulations. Study was approved by the Manisa Celal Bayar University’s Non-Invasive Clinical Research Ethics Committee (approval No. E-85252386-050.04.04-49119, date: 22.03.2021). We confirm that all methods were performed in accordance with relevant named guidelines and regulations. Median age at diagnosis was 63 years (range: 32–88). The number of patients who received first-line chemotherapy was 129 (84.9%). Median PFS with first-line treatment was 5.3 months, while it was 3.3 months with second-line treatment. Median OS was 9.4 months. Median IPI score was 22.2. We evaluated IPI score for its value in detecting survival status with ROC analysis and identified an IPI cut-off score of 14.6. Low IPI score was significantly associated with longer PFS and OS compared to high IPI (PFS in high vs. low IPI, 3.6 vs. 7 months; p < 0.001) (OS in high vs. low IPI, 6.6 vs. 14.2 months; p < 0.001). IPI score can be an independent prognostic index that is inexpensive, easy to access and evaluate for patients with metastatic gastric cancer, and may be useful in predicting survival in daily practice.
Variation along P2RX7 interacts with early traumas on severity of anxiety suggesting a role for neuroinflammation
Authors: Kristof Zsuliet , Gal Zsofia , Torok Dora , Eszlari Nora , Sutori Sara , Erdelyi-Hamza Berta , Petschner Peter , Sperlagh Beata , Anderson Ian M. , Deakin John Francis William , Bagdy Gyorgy , Juhasz Gabriella , Gonda Xenia
Published: May 2023

Emotional stress is a leading risk factor in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders possibly via immune activation. P2X7 receptors promote neuroinflammation, and research suggests a relationship between chromosome region 12q2431, in which the P2X7R gene is located, and development of mood disorders, however, few studies concentrate on its association with anxiety. Our aim was to investigate the effects of P2RX7 variation in interaction with early childhood traumas and recent stressors on anxiety. 1752 participants completed questionnaires assessing childhood adversities and recent negative life events, provided data on anxiety using the Brief Symptom Inventory, and were genotyped for 681 SNPs in the P2RX7 gene, 335 of which passed quality control and were entered into linear regression models followed by a linkage disequilibrium-based clumping procedure to identify clumps of SNPs with a significant main or interaction effect. We identified a significant clump with top SNP rs67881993 and containing a set of 29SNPs that are in high LD, which significantly interacted with early childhood traumas but not with recent stress conveying a protective effect against increased anxiety in those exposed to early adversities. Our study demonstrated that P2RX7 variants interact with distal and more etiological stressors in influencing the severity of anxiety symptoms, supporting previous scarce results and demonstrating its role in moderating the effects of stress.
Egyptian propolis extract for functionalization of cellulose nanofiber/poly(vinyl alcohol) porous hydrogel along with characterization and biological applications
Authors: Saleh Safaa , Salama Ahmed , Ali Amira M. , Saleh Ahmed K. , Elhady Bothaina Abd , Tolba Emad
Published: May 2023

Bee propolis is one of the most common natural extracts and has gained significant interest in biomedicine due to its high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids, which are responsible for the antioxidant activity of natural products. The present study report that the propolis extract (PE) was produced by ethanol in the surrounding environment. The obtained PE was added at different concentrations to cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and subjected to freezing thawing and freeze drying methods to develop porous bioactive matrices. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations displayed that the prepared samples had an interconnected porous structure with pore sizes in the range of 10–100 μm. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results of PE showed around 18 polyphenol compounds, with the highest amounts of hesperetin (183.7 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (96.9 µg/mL) and caffeic acid (90.2 µg/mL). The antibacterial activity results indicated that both PE and PE-functionalized hydrogels exhibited a potential antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans. The in vitro test cell culture experiments indicated that the cells on the PE-functionalized hydrogels had the greatest viability, adhesion, and spreading of cells. Altogether, these data highlight the interesting effect of propolis bio-functionalization to enhance the biological features of CNF/PVA hydrogel as a functional matrix for biomedical applications.
Machine learning-guided determination of Acinetobacter density in waterbodies receiving municipal and hospital wastewater effluents
Authors: Ekundayo Temitope C. , Adewoyin Mary A. , Ijabadeniyi Oluwatosin A. , Igbinosa Etinosa O. , Okoh Anthony I.
Published: May 2023

A smart artificial intelligent system (SAIS) for Acinetobacter density (AD) enumeration in waterbodies represents an invaluable strategy for avoidance of repetitive, laborious, and time-consuming routines associated with its determination. This study aimed to predict AD in waterbodies using machine learning (ML). AD and physicochemical variables (PVs) data from three rivers monitored via standard protocols in a year-long study were fitted to 18 ML algorithms. The models’ performance was assayed using regression metrics. The average pH, EC, TDS, salinity, temperature, TSS, TBS, DO, BOD, and AD was 7.76 ± 0.02, 218.66 ± 4.76 µS/cm, 110.53 ± 2.36 mg/L, 0.10 ± 0.00 PSU, 17.29 ± 0.21 °C, 80.17 ± 5.09 mg/L, 87.51 ± 5.41 NTU, 8.82 ± 0.04 mg/L, 4.00 ± 0.10 mg/L, and 3.19 ± 0.03 log CFU/100 mL respectively. While the contributions of PVs differed in values, AD predicted value by XGB [3.1792 (1.1040–4.5828)] and Cubist [3.1736 (1.1012–4.5300)] outshined other algorithms. Also, XGB (MSE = 0.0059, RMSE = 0.0770; R2 = 0.9912; MAD = 0.0440) and Cubist (MSE = 0.0117, RMSE = 0.1081, R2 = 0.9827; MAD = 0.0437) ranked first and second respectively, in predicting AD. Temperature was the most important feature in predicting AD and ranked first by 10/18 ML-algorithms accounting for 43.00–83.30% mean dropout RMSE loss after 1000 permutations. The two models' partial dependence and residual diagnostics sensitivity revealed their efficient AD prognosticating accuracies in waterbodies. In conclusion, a fully developed XGB/Cubist/XGB-Cubist ensemble/web SAIS app for AD monitoring in waterbodies could be deployed to shorten turnaround time in deciding microbiological quality of waterbodies for irrigation and other purposes.
FOXK1 regulates malignant progression and radiosensitivity through direct transcriptional activation of CDC25A and CDK4 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Xiaoxu , Lu Juntao , Liu Lei , Li Fei , Xu Tongxin , Chen Liying , Yan Zhaoyang , Li Yan , Guo Wei
Published: May 2023

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a serious malignancy with poor prognosis, necessitating identification of oncogenic mechanisms for novel therapeutic strategies. Recent studies have highlighted the significance of the transcription factor forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) in diverse biological processes and carcinogenesis of multiple malignancies, including ESCC. However, the molecular pathways underlying FOXK1’s role in ESCC progression are not fully understood, and its potential role in radiosensitivity remains unclear. Here, we aimed to elucidate the function of FOXK1 in ESCC and explore the underlying mechanisms. Elevated FOXK1 expression levels were found in ESCC cells and tissues, positively correlated with TNM stage, invasion depth, and lymph node metastasis. FOXK1 markedly enhanced the proliferative, migratory and invasive capacities of ESCC cells. Furthermore, silencing FOXK1 resulted in heightened radiosensitivity by impeding DNA damage repair, inducing G1 arrest, and promoting apoptosis. Subsequent studies demonstrated that FOXK1 directly bound to the promoter regions of CDC25A and CDK4, thereby activating their transcription in ESCC cells. Moreover, the biological effects mediated by FOXK1 overexpression could be reversed by knockdown of either CDC25A or CDK4. Collectively, FOXK1, along with its downstream target genes CDC25A and CDK4, may serve as a promising set of therapeutic and radiosensitizing targets for ESCC.
Catalytic hydrodeoxygenation of neat levulinic acid into 2-methyltetrahydrofuran using a cobalt phosphine complex and Sc(OTf)3co-catalytic system
Authors: Gan Lijin , Deng Jin
Published: May 2023

The neat levulinic acid is directly converted to 2-methyltetrahydrofuran under mild conditions. Inexpensive and environmentally friendly non-noble metal catalysts are used.
Directional polymer crystallisation with a fast-moving sink
Authors: Purushothaman Ahana , Adhikari Sabin , Durning Christopher , Kumar Sanat K. , Thampi Sumesh P.
Published: May 2023

Numerical and analytical studies of directional polymer crystallisation under faster-moving sinks show the existence of a steady state regardless of the partial crystallisation of polymer melt.
Single-atomic Fe sites decorated N-doped carbon toward oxygen reduction in MFCs
Authors: Zhao Cuie , Luo Wei , Tian Haoran , Lu Tao , Yi Lei , Zhang Ying , Shi Li , Ma Yanwen
Published: May 2023

Atomically dispersed Fe–N4sites embedded in an Fe–N–C catalyst play a significant role in enhancing the catalytic activity of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), enabling a high power-out performance in microbial fuel cells (MFCs).
Pressure-driven structural phase transitions and metallization in the two-dimensional ferromagnetic semiconductor CrBr3
Authors: Hong Meiling , Dai Lidong , Hu Haiying , Zhang Xinyu , Li Chuang , He Yu
Published: May 2023

A systematic and detailed investigation on the high-pressure structural, electrical transport and magnetic properties was conducted for CrBr3.
Comparison of group 4 and thorium M(iv) substituted cyclopentadienyl silanide complexes
Authors: Réant Benjamin L. L. , De Alwis Jayasinghe Dukula , Wooles Ashley J. , Liddle Stephen T. , Mills David P.
Published: May 2023

The metal-silicon bonds of a series of structurally similar zirconium(iv), hafnium(iv) and thorium(iv) substituted cyclopentadienyl hypersilanide complexes are compared with each other.
Side-chain engineering of nonfullerene small-molecule acceptors for organic solar cells
Authors: Luo Zhenghui , Xu Tongle , Zhang Cai'e , Yang Chuluo
Published: May 2023

This review summarizes the side-chain engineering of nonfullerene small-molecule acceptors (SMAs) in the field of organic solar cells, discusses the key structure–property relationships in depth and the future directions of side-chain engineering.
Molecular understanding of the morphology and properties of lignin nanoparticles: unravelling the potential for tailored applications
Authors: Pylypchuk Ievgen V. , Karlsson Maria , Lindén Pär A. , Lindström Mikael E. , Elder Thomas , Sevastyanova Olena , Lawoko Martin
Published: May 2023

Studies have shown that the size of LNP depends on the molecular weight (Mw) of lignin.
Integrated membrane-free thermal flow sensor for silicon-on-glass microfluidics
Authors: Ryzhkov Vitaly V. , Echeistov Vladimir V. , Zverev Aleksandr V. , Baklykov Dmitry A. , Konstantinova Tatyana , Lotkov Evgeny S. , Ryazantcev Pavel G. , Sh. Alibekov Ruslan , Kuguk Aleksey K. , Aleksandrov Andrey R. , Krasko Elisey S. , Barbasheva Anastasiya A. , Ryzhikov Ilya A. , Rodionov Ilya A.
Published: May 2023

Design, electronics, fabrication technology, and characterization method of an on-chip corrosion-resistant microfluidic thermal flow sensor for silicon lab-on-a-chip and POC devices.
Multifunctional poly(vinylidene fluoride)/polyurethane/titanium dioxide nanofibrous membranes with enhanced ultraviolet-proof, resistant to blood penetration, and waterproof performance
Authors: Yu Kefei , Yao Yongbo , Zhang Kuihua , Sheng Junlu , Liao Haiyan , Zhai Yunyun , Wang Xueqin , Li Zhe , Yan Zhiyong
Published: May 2023

PVDF/PU/TiO2 composite nanofibrous membranes were demonstrated for multiple protective functions, as well as maintaining comparable moisture permeability.
Influence of deposition order of dual active components on the NH3-SCO performance of the bimetallic Pt–V system supported on TiO2
Authors: Gao Yu , Han Zhitao , Lu Shijian , Pan Xinxiang
Published: May 2023

The combined action of VOx species and Pt species supported on TiO2 is beneficial for the V0.5/Pt0.04/TiO2 catalyst to exhibit outstanding NH3-SCO performance.
Chemo- and regioselective cyclization of diene-tethered enynesviapalladium-catalyzed aminomethylamination
Authors: Li Renren , Zhang Haocheng , Yu Bangkui , Huang Hanmin
Published: May 2023

A chemo- and regioselective cyclization of diene-tethered enynesviapalladium-catalyzed aminomethylamination is established for the synthesis of functionalized benzofulvenes.
Effect of surface tension on elastocapillary wrinkling of interfacially adsorbed hydrogel disks with photothermally programmed swelling profiles
Authors: Kim Ji-Won , Chen Chao , Kim Hyunki , Kim Shin-Hyun , Hayward Ryan C.
Published: May 2023

In this work, we study the influence of surface tension on light-induced wrinkling of hydrogel disks containing patterned regions of photothermally-active gold nanoparticles at the air–water interface.
Design of Fe/Ni-doped N/S-rich carbon with advanced bifunctional electrocatalysis for Zn–air batteries
Authors: Weng Puxin , Guo Yaqing , Wu Kun , Wang Xin , Huang Guo-Quan , Lei Hang , Yuan Yifei , Lu Weigang , Li Dan
Published: May 2023

This work demonstrates the design and synthesis of Fe/Ni co-doped and N/S-rich carbon materials as bifunctional electrocatalysts. The obtained POP-Fe/Ni-900 exhibits excellent performance as a cathode electrocatalyst in a home-made zinc–air battery.
Anisotropic sol–gel transition and morphological aspects of a hierarchical network of nematic gel and a superimposed photopolymer
Authors: Varshini G. V. , Rao D. S. Shankar , Prasad S. Krishna
Published: May 2023

The thermodynamic phase in which photopolymerisation is performed governs the morphological characteristics of a nematogen with hierarchal network feature possessing independent gelator and reactive monomer constituents.
Exploring dual-emission properties in Mn4+ distinctively activated BaTaF7 red emitting phosphor
Authors: Chen Konglan , Jia Shiyu , Shao Zifan , Han Xinxin , Yuan Jian , Zhou Yayun , Deng Tingting
Published: May 2023

This study explores dual-emission characteristics of Mn4+-doped BaTaF7 and offers new insights for the development of fluoride red-emitting phosphors with enhanced fluorescence.
Nesprin-1: novel regulator of striated muscle nuclear positioning and mechanotransduction
Authors: De Silva Shanelle , Fan Zhijuan , Kang Baoqiang , Shanahan Catherine M. , Zhang Qiuping
Published: May 2023

Nesprins (nuclear envelope spectrin repeat proteins) are multi-isomeric scaffolding proteins. Giant nesprin-1 and -2 localise to the outer nuclear membrane, interact with SUN (Sad1p/UNC-84) domain-containing proteins at the inner nuclear membrane to form the LInker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, which, in association with lamin A/C and emerin, mechanically couples the nucleus to the cytoskeleton. Despite ubiquitous expression of nesprin giant isoforms, pathogenic mutations in nesprin-1 and -2 are associated with tissue-specific disorders, particularly related to striated muscle such as dilated cardiomyopathy and Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy. Recent evidence suggests this muscle-specificity might be attributable in part, to the small muscle specific isoform, nesprin-1α2, which has a novel role in striated muscle function. Our current understanding of muscle-specific functions of nesprin-1 and its isoforms will be summarised in this review to provide insight into potential pathological mechanisms of nesprin-related muscle disease and may inform potential targets of therapeutic modulation.
Insights into the reionization epoch from cosmic-noon-C IV emitters in the VANDELS survey
Authors: Mascia S. , Pentericci L. , Saxena A. , Belfiori D. , Calabrò A. , Castellano M. , Saldana-Lopez A. , Talia M. , Amorín R. , Cullen F. , Garilli B. , Guaita L. , LLerena M. , McLure R. J. , Moresco M. , Santini P. , Schaerer D.
Published: May 2023

Recently, intense emission from nebular C III] and C IV emission lines have been observed in galaxies in the epoch of reionization (z > 6) and have been proposed as the prime way of measuring their redshift and studying their stellar populations. These galaxies might represent the best examples of cosmic reionizers, as suggested by recent low-z observations of Lyman continuum emitting galaxies, but it is hard to directly study the production and escape of ionizing photons at such high redshifts. The ESO spectroscopic public survey VANDELS offers the unique opportunity to find rare examples of such galaxies at cosmic noon (z ∼ 3), thanks to the ultra deep observations available. We have selected a sample of 39 galaxies showing C IV emission, whose origin (after a careful comparison to photoionization models) can be ascribed to star formation and not to active galactic nuclei. By using a multiwavelength approach, we determined their physical properties including metallicity and the ionization parameter and compared them to the properties of the parent population to understand what the ingredients are that could characterize the analogs of the cosmic reionizers. We find that C IV emitters are galaxies with high photon production efficiency and there are strong indications that they might also have a large escape fraction: given the visibility of C IV in the epoch of reionization, this could become the best tool to pinpoint the cosmic reioinzers.
Physical conditions for dust grain alignment in Class 0 protostellar cores
Authors: Le Gouellec V. J. M. , Maury A. J. , Hull C. L. H. , Verliat A. , Hennebelle P. , Valdivia V.
Published: May 2023

Context. The polarized dust emission observed in Class 0 protostellar cores at high angular resolution with ALMA has raised several concerns about the grain alignment conditions in these regions.

Aims. We aim to study the role of the radiation field in grain alignment mechanisms that occur in the interior (≤1000 au) of Class 0 protostars.

Methods. We produced synthetic observations of the polarized dust emission from a magnetohydrodynamic model of protostellar formation using the POLARIS dust radiative transfer tool, which includes dust alignment with radiative torque alignment (RAT). We tested how the polarized dust emission from the model core depends on the irradiation conditions in the protostellar envelope by varying the radiation due to accretion luminosity propagating from the central protostellar embryo throughout the envelope. The level of grain alignment efficiency obtained in the radiative transfer models was then compared to (sub)millimeter ALMA dust polarization observations of Class 0 protostars.

Results. Our radiative transfer calculations have a central irradiation that reproduces the protostellar luminosities typically observed toward low- to intermediate-mass protostars, as well as super-paramagnetic grains and grains ≥10 µm, which are required to bring the dust grain alignment efficiencies of the synthetic observations up to the observed levels. We discuss the characteristics timescales of the grain alignment physics together with the radiative torque disruption (RATD) of grains and the typical time variability of accretion occurring in Class 0 protostellar cores. In our model, during an accretion burst or a steady-state phase of high luminosity from the protostellar embryo, RATD could have enough time to disrupt the largest grains in irradiated regions. Finally, in high-luminosity conditions (with L★ ≥ 20 L⊙ in our model), we find that the alignment of grains with respect to the anisotropic component of the radiation field (k-RAT) could drive inefficient alignment for grains ≳10 µm. However, given the high grain alignment efficiency observed in protostellar envelopes, large grains are most likely aligned with the magnetic field and thus potentially subject to rotational disruption, depending on their tensile strength.

Conclusions. Our radiative transfer calculations show that irradiation plays an important role in the mechanisms that dictate the size range of aligned grains in Class 0 protostars. Regions of the envelope that are preferentially irradiated harbor strong polarized dust emission but can be affected by the rotational disruption of dust grains, thus controlling the population of the largest aligned grains. Episodes of high luminosity could affect grain alignment and trigger grain disruption mechanisms.
Slow-mode rarefaction and compression fronts in the Hermean magnetosphere: From MESSENGER insights to future BepiColombo observations
Authors: Varela J. , Pantellini F.
Published: May 2023

Context. Standing slow-mode rarefaction and compression front structures may appear in the Mercury magnetosheath under particular solar wind conditions.

Aims. The aim of the study is to identify the wind conditions required for the formation of slow-mode structures (SMS) in the Mercury magnetosphere by comparing MESSENGER magnetometer data and magnetohydrodynamics simulations.

Methods. We used the magnetohydrodynamics code PLUTO in spherical coordinates to reproduce the interaction of the solar wind with the Mercury magnetosphere. First, the optimal wind conditions for the SMS formation were identified with respect to the orientation of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) and dynamic pressure. Next, the magnetic field calculated in the simulations along the MESSENGER trajectory was compared to MESSENGER magnetometer data to identify tracers of the satellite encounter with the SMS.

Results. Optimal wind conditions for the formation of SMS require that the IMF is oriented in the northward or radial directions. The MESSENGER orbit on 8th September 2011 takes place during wind conditions that are close to the optimal configuration for SMS formation near the north pole, leading to the possible intersection of the satellite trajectory with the SMS. MESSENGER magnetometer data show a rather strong decrease in the magnetic field module after the satellite crossed nearby the compression front that is observed in the simulation, providing indirect evidence of the SMS.