bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy and survival surrogate analysis of neoadjuvant treatment in IB–IIIB lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Jiacong , Zhu Linhai , Tang Muhu , Huang Xuhua , Gu Chen , He Cheng , Lv Xiayi , Hu Jian
Published: March 2024

Until now, there are still few comparisons between neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy and chemotherapy as first-line treatment for patients with stage IB-IIIB lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). In addition, the ability of pathologic response to predict long-term survival has still not been established. In this retrospective, controlled clinical trial, we ultimately enrolled 231 patients with stage IB to IIIB LUSC who received 2–4 cycles perioperative immunochemotherapy or chemotherapy alone, followed by resection. The primary endpoint of this study was pathological response. Secondary endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), surgical resection rate and adverse events (AEs). The rates of major pathologic response (MPR) and pathologic complete response (pCR) in the immunochemotherapy group were 66.7% and 41.9%, respectively, which were both higher than that in the other group (MPR: 25.0%, pCR: 20.8%) (P < 0.001). The median DFS in the chemotherapy group was 33.1 months (95% CI 8.4 to 57.8) and not reached in the immunochemotherapy group (hazard ratio [HR] for disease progression, disease recurrence, or death, 0.543; 95% CI 0.303 to 0.974; P = 0.038). The median OS of the immunochemotherapy group was not achieved (HR for death, 0.747; 95% CI 0.373 to 1.495; P = 0.41), with the chemotherapy group 64.8 months (95% CI not reached to not reached). The objective response rate (ORR) of immunochemotherapy regimen was higher than that of the chemotherapy regimen (immunochemotherapy: 74.5%, chemotherapy: 42.3%, P < 0.001). About 60.8% in the immunochemotherapy group and 61.5% in the chemotherapy group eventually underwent surgery. The incidence of grade3 and 4 adverse events was 18.3% in the immunochemotherapy group and 2.6% in the chemotherapy group. MPR was significantly associated with DFS and OS (HR, 0.325; 95% CI 0.127 to 0.833; P = 0.019; and HR, 0. 906; 95% CI 0.092 to 1.008; P = 0.051, respectively). The C-index of MPR (0.730 for DFS, 0.722 for OS) was higher than the C-index of cPR (0.672 for DFS, 0.659 for OS) and clinical response (0.426 for DFS, 0.542 for OS). Therapeutic regimen (P < 0.001; OR = 7.406; 95% CI 3.054 to 17.960) was significantly correlated with MPR. In patients with stage IB to IIIB LUSC, neoadjuvant treatment with immunochemotherapy can produce a higher percentage of patients with a MPR and longer survival than chemotherapy alone. MPR may serve as a surrogate endpoint of survival to evaluate neoadjuvant therapy.
Exploring the lead-free halide Cs2MGaBr6 (M = Li, Na) double perovskites for sustainable energy applications
Authors: Sofi Mudasir Younis , Khan Mohd Shahid , Ali Javid , Khan M. Ajmal
Published: March 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the exploration of sustainable and eco-friendly materials well-suited for advanced applications in the realms of thermoelectrics and optoelectronics. Lead-free halide double perovskites have emerged as a compelling class of materials in this context. Nevertheless, despite their potential utility, thorough investigations into their thermal transport characteristics remain limited. In this systematic investigation, we employ density functional theory (DFT) and post-DFT techniques to elucidate the essential stability parameters, transport properties, and carrier-lattice interactions of the metal halide-based Cs2MGaBr6 (X = Li, Ga) double perovskites. Our assessment of structural stability involves a meticulous description of stability index parameters and the optimization of pristine structures using the GGA-PBE potential. Additionally, we calibrate the electronic structure while taking spin–orbit coupling (SOC) effects into consideration by using a combination of GGA and GGA + mBJ potentials. Our findings reveal that the TB-mBJ derived band gaps of 1.82 eV and 1.78 eV for Cs2LiGaBr6 and Cs2NaGaBr6 reside within the visible spectrum, prompting further investigation into their thermal transport characteristics. Moreover, we analyze the phonon characteristics and vibrational modes, extending our investigation to examine the electron–phonon coupling strength. The scrutiny of the Fröhlich coupling constant and the Feynman polaron radius unveils a stronger electron–phonon coupling strength. In the domain of thermoelectrics, the significant figure of merit (zT) values of 1.08 and 1.04 for Cs2LiGaBr6 and Cs2NaGaBr6, respectively, emphasize the considerable potential of these materials for deployment in renewable energy applications. Furthermore, our computational investigation into optical properties, including the dielectric constant, optical absorption, and refractive index, demonstrates optimal performance within the visible spectrum. Specifically, elevated absorption coefficient values of $$30\times 10$$

30
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4$${{\text{cm}}}^{-1}$$

cm

-
1

for Cs2LiGaBr6 and $$40\times 10$$

40
×
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1

for Cs2NaGaBr6 are noted across visible and infrared spectra, highlighting their promising potential in optoelectronic and solar cell technologies.
Adsorption–desorption characteristics of coal-bearing shale gas under three-dimensional stress state studied by low field nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum experiments
Authors: Tian Hunan , Tang Jupeng , Zhang Shipeng , Zhang Xin
Published: March 2024

The micro-scale gas adsorption–desorption characteristics determine the macro-scale gas transport and production behavior. To reveal the three-dimensional stress state-induced gas adsorption–desorption characteristics in coal-bearing shale reservoirs from a micro-scale perspective, the coal-bearing shale samples from the Dongbaowei Coal Mine in the Shuangyashan Basin were chosen as the research subject. Isothermal adsorption–desorption experiments under three-dimensional stress state were conducted using the low field nuclear magnetic resonance (L-NMR) T2 spectrum method to simulate the in-situ coal-bearing shale gas adsorption–desorption process. The average effective stress was used as the equivalent stress indicator for coal-bearing shale, and the integral of nuclear magnetic resonance T2 spectrum amplitude was employed as the gas characterization indicator for coal-bearing shale. A quantitative analysis was performed to examine the relationship between gas adsorption in coal-bearing shale and the average effective stress. And a quantitative analysis was performed to examine the relationship between the macroscopic and microscopic gas quantities of coal-bearing shale. Experimental findings: (1) The adsorption–desorption process of coal-bearing shale gas follows the L-F function model and the D-A-d function model respectively with respect to the amount of gas and the average effective stress. (2) There is a logarithmic relationship between the macroscopic and microscopic gas quantities of coal-bearing shale during the adsorption–desorption process. This quantitatively characterizes the differences in the curves, which may be related to the elastic–plastic deformation, damage and fracture of the micropores in coal-bearing shale, as well as the hysteresis of gas desorption and the stress field of the gas occurrence state.
Synthesis and evaluation of coumarin derivatives on antioxidative, tyrosinase inhibitory activities, melanogenesis, and in silico investigations
Authors: Chandarajoti Kasemsiri , Kara Jiraporn , Suwanhom Paptawan , Nualnoi Teerapat , Puripattanavong Jindaporn , Lee Vannajan Sanghiran , Tipmanee Varomyalin , Lomlim Luelak
Published: March 2024

New coumarin derivatives were designed using a 2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yl)acetic acid scaffold conjugated with amino acid esters or tyramine. The anti-tyrosinase and anti-lipid peroxidation activities of the synthesized compounds were investigated. Coumarin derivatives 7,9, 11–13, 15–18 showed strong anti-lipid peroxidation activity. Compound 13 exhibited uncompetitive tyrosinase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 68.86 µM. Compound 14 (% activity = 123.41) showed stronger tyrosinase activating activity than 8-methoxypsolaren (8-MOP, % activity = 109.46). In silico studies revealed different poses between the inhibitors and activators near the tyrosinase catalytic site. Compounds 13 (25–50 μM) and 14 (25–100 μM) did not show cytotoxicity against B16F10 cells. In contrast to the tyrosinase inhibition assay, compound 13 (50 μM) suppressed melanogenesis in B16F10 cells with two times higher potency than KA (100 μM). Compound 14 at 100 μM showed melanogenesis enhancement in B16F10 cells in a dose-dependent manner, however, inferior to the 8-MOP. Based on the findings, compound 13 and 14 offer potential for development as skin-lightening agents and vitiligo therapy agents, respectively.
Enrichment of medium-quality colostrum by adding colostrum replacer, combined or not with transition milk in the feeding of dairy calves
Authors: Silva Ana Paula , Cezar Amanda M. , de Toledo Ariany F. , Coelho Marina G. , Tomaluski Cristiane R. , Virgínio Júnior Gercino F. , Bittar Carla M. M.
Published: March 2024

Fifty Holstein calves were allocated in randomized blocks and distributed in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement; (A) two sources of Ig: (1) Control: bovine colostrum (25% Brix); (2) Enriched colostrum: mid-quality bovine colostrum (20% Brix) enriched with colostrum replacer to 25% Brix; and (B) two transition feeding diets: (1) Whole milk (WM): supply of 4 L/day of whole milk for 3 days after the colostrum feeding; and (2) Formulated transition milk (FTM): supply 4 L/day of whole milk enriched with 70 g/L of colostrum replacer for 3 days after the colostrum feeding. Blood samples were collected at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h of age to determine total serum protein (TSP), glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), erythrocyte and leukocyte concentrations. IgG was measured at 48 h. During the preweaning period, calves received 6 L/day of whole milk. Blood samples were collected weekly to determine TSP, glucose, and lactate. The colostrum protocols were equally efficient for transfer of passive immunity with IgG concentration at 48 h ≥ 49.6 g/L. Colostrum or transition feeding program did not influence the erythrocyte and leukocyte concentrations. The TSP concentration measured until 72 h was higher for calves fed maternal colostrum. Calves fed milk in the transition period had higher glucose concentrations. Calves receiving bovine colostrum and FTM had higher glucose concentrations in the preweaning period, while the enriched colostrum decreased plasma lactate concentrations. In summary, enrichment of mid-quality colostrum is an alternative in situations of a shortage of high-quality colostrum; however, feeding 4 L/day of FTM only for 3 days after colostrum feeding does not show additional benefits.
A prognostic nomogram for recurrence survival in post-surgical patients with varicose veins of the lower extremities
Authors: Hu Hai , Hu Lili , Deng Ziqing , Jiang Qihua
Published: March 2024

Varicose veins of the lower extremities (VVLEs) are prevalent globally. This study aims to identify prognostic factors and develop a prediction model for recurrence survival (RS) in VVLEs patients after surgery. A retrospective analysis of VVLEs patients from the Third Hospital of Nanchang was conducted between April 2017 and March 2022. A LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) regression model pinpointed significant recurrence predictors, culminating in a prognostic nomogram. The model’s performance was evaluated by C-index, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA). The LASSO regression identified seven predictors for the nomogram predicting 1-, 2-, and 5-year RS. These predictors were age, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, diabetes, the Clinical Etiological Anatomical Pathophysiological (CEAP) grade, iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS), and postoperative compression stocking duration (PCSD). The nomogram’s C-index was 0.716, with AUCs (Area Under the Curve scores) of 0.705, 0.725, and 0.758 for 1-, 2-, and 5-year RS, respectively. Calibration and decision curve analyses validated the model’s predictive accuracy and clinical utility. Kaplan–Meier analysis distinguished between low and high-risk groups with significant prognostic differences (P < 0.05). This study has successfully developed and validated a nomogram for predicting RS in patients with VVLEs after surgery, enhancing personalized care and informing clinical decision-making.
A comprehensive study on non-governmental actors in shaping grassland ecological compensation within legal frameworks
Authors: Liu Ziqi , Sun Jiyao
Published: March 2024

Ecological compensation has emerged as a crucial institutional framework for managing the interplay between ecological preservation and economic development in China. This study focuses on the specific case of grassland ecological compensation to investigate the protection of rights and interests of non-governmental subjects. By utilizing data derived from questionnaire responses, this study examines the legal rights, obligations, and responsibilities associated with grassland ecological compensation. Statistical techniques such as Z-distribution, chi-square test, and non-parametric measures of correlation are employed to analyze the collected data, which are presented using tables and graphs. Furthermore, this research evaluates the current state of rights and interests of compensation subjects engaged in ecological compensation practices, aiming to enhance our comprehension and assessment of the extent to which the ecological compensation system safeguards the rights and interests of individuals. The findings show that a substantial number of respondents see current grassland ecological compensation methods in China as reasonable but insufficient, indicating a need for method diversification. There’s a clear preference for a shared responsibility model over government-only funding, especially in regions with large grassland areas. This highlights the necessity for adaptable laws and a legal framework that accommodates diverse stakeholder needs. Additionally, the importance of clear property rights is emphasized for sustainable land use. The study suggests legislative reform towards a more equitable and effective approach to grassland conservation, providing valuable recommendations for refining and advancing the ecological compensation system.Author name 1 (Ziqi Liu) mismatch between ms and metadata. We have foolowed metadata. Kindly check and confirm.The metadata is right. Thank you.
The association between physical activity, self-efficacy, stress self-management and mental health among adolescents
Authors: Zhang Ge , Feng Wanxuan , Zhao Liangyu , Zhao Xiuhan , Li Tuojian
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to explore the interplay between physical activity, self-efficacy, stress self-management and mental health among adolescents. The study gathered data from an online survey conducted among 400 Chinese middle school students (mean age = 13.74 years). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0 and PROCESS 4.1. The findings indicated a positive and significant relationship between physical activity, self-efficacy, stress self-management, and mental health. Notably, the association between physical activity and mental health was entirely mediated by self-efficacy and stress self-management. Moreover, self-efficacy and stress self-management exhibited a chain mediation effect on the relationship between physical activity and mental health. It is suggested that interventions focusing on physical activity should prioritize strategies for enhancing students’ self-efficacy and stress self-management skills as integral components of promoting adolescents’ mental health. Future research should delve into identifying specific types of physical activities that have a greater potential to enhance self-efficacy and stress self-management abilities.
Electron scattering at a potential temporal step discontinuity
Authors: Ok Furkan , Bahrami Amir , Caloz Christophe
Published: March 2024

We solve the problem of electron scattering at a potential temporal step discontinuity. For this purpose, instead of the Schrödinger equation, we use the Dirac equation, for access to back-scattering and relativistic solutions. We show that back-scattering, which is associated with gauge symmetry breaking, requires a vector potential, whereas a scalar potential induces only Aharonov–Bohm type energy transitions. We derive the scattering probabilities, which are found to be of later-forward and later-backward nature, with the later-backward wave being a relativistic effect, and compare the results with those for the spatial step and classical electromagnetic counterparts of the problem. Given the unrealizability of an infinitely sharp temporal discontinuity—which is of the same nature as its spatial counterpart!—we also provide solutions for a smooth potential step and demonstrate that the same physics as for the infinitely sharp case is obtained when the duration of the potential transition is sufficiently smaller than the de Broglie period of the electron (or deeply sub-period).
Temporomandibular involvement in children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a 2-year prospective cohort study
Authors: Collin Malin , Christidis Nikolaos , Hagelberg Stefan , Arvidsson Linda Z. , Larheim Tore A. , Ernberg Malin , Hedenberg-Magnusson Britt
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to clinically evaluate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and the ability to identify and/or predict development of TMJ-deformities over time using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The predictive value of self-reported TMJ pain was also assessed. A prospective longitudinal cohort study comprising 54 children with JIA, 39 girls and 15 boys, was performed. All children had active disease at baseline, 50% with the subtype oligoarthritis. Repeated clinical orofacial and CBCT examinations were performed over a two-year period. At baseline, 39% had radiographic TMJ deformities (24% unilateral, 15% bilateral), at 2-year follow-up, 42% (p > 0.05). Both progressing and improving TMJ deformities were observed. An association was found between TMJ-deformities and self-reported TMJ pain at baseline (p = 0.01). Maximum unassisted mouth opening (MUO) was smaller for children with TMJ-deformities (p < 0.05). The prevalence of palpatory muscle pain was high (48–59%) but not predictive of development of TMJ-deformities. TMJ noises increased over time and crepitations were associated with TMJ-deformities (p < 0.05). In conclusion, in children with JIA, self-reported TMJ pain and dysfunction were common and predictive of TMJ deformities. TMJ deformities were associated with smaller MUO and palpatory TMJ pain as well as crepitations. Trial registration. ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol id: 2010/2089-31/2.
Fecal microbiota impacts development of Cryptosporidium parvum in the mouse
Authors: Widmer Giovanni , Creasey Hannah N.
Published: March 2024

The dependence of Cryptosporidium parasites on host cell metabolites suggests that the development of nutritional interventions to limit parasite proliferation should be feasible. Based on this concept, we are testing dietary interventions to affect the enterocytes’ metabolism in a manner that limits intracellular multiplication of the parasite. We hypothesize that changes in the metabolic pathways encoded by the gastro-intestinal tract microbiota may restrict parasite proliferation. To identify taxonomic and metabolic features of the microbiota associated with severity of cryptosporidiosis, as determined by estimating oocyst output, we characterized the fecal microbiota from mice experimentally infected with Cryptosporidium parvum. To eliminate the confounding effect of the interaction between co-housed mice, as well as facilitate the identification of microbiota markers associated with severity of cryptosporidiosis, fecal microbiota from individually caged mice were analyzed. Variation partitioning analysis applied to 16S sequence data from 25 mice belonging to four experiments shows that experiment was by far the biggest source of microbiota variation. Severity of cryptosporidiosis explained a smaller, though significant, fraction of microbiota variation. Notably, this effect was significant in the pre-patent phase of the infection, before mice excreted oocysts. These results are consistent with the pre-patent intestinal microbiota having a modest, but measurable, effect on cryptosporidiosis.
Phytoremediation of pollutants in oil-contaminated soils by Alhagi camelorum: evaluation and modeling
Authors: Nemati Bahador , Baneshi Mohammad Mehdi , Akbari Hossein , Dehghani Rouhullah , Mostafaii Gholamreza
Published: March 2024

Phytoremediation is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method, offering a suitable alternative to chemical and physical approaches for the removal of pollutants from soil. This research explored the phytoremediation potential of Alhagi camelorum, a plant species, for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) and heavy metals (HMs), specifically lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and cadmium (Cd), in oil-contaminated soil. A field-scale study spanning six months was conducted, involving the cultivation of A. camelorum seeds in a nursery and subsequent transplantation of seedlings onto prepared soil plots. Control plots, devoid of any plants, were also incorporated for comparison. Soil samples were analyzed throughout the study period using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‒OES) for HMs and gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC‒MS) for TPHs. The results showed that after six months, the average removal percentage was 53.6 ± 2.8% for TPHs and varying percentages observed for the HMs (Pb: 50 ± 2.1%, Cr: 47.6 ± 2.5%, Ni: 48.1 ± 1.6%, and Cd: 45.4 ± 3.5%). The upward trajectory in the population of heterotrophic bacteria and the level of microbial respiration, in contrast to the control plots, suggests that the presence of the plant plays a significant role in promoting soil microbial growth (P < 0.05). Moreover, kinetic rate models were examined to assess the rate of pollutant removal. The coefficient of determination consistently aligned with the first-order kinetic rate model for all the mentioned pollutants (R2 > 0.8). These results collectively suggest that phytoremediation employing A. camelorum can effectively reduce pollutants in oil-contaminated soils.
Spatial deformable transformer for 3D point cloud registration
Authors: Xiong Fengguang , Kong Yu , Xie Shuaikang , Kuang Liqun , Han Xie
Published: March 2024

Deformable attention only focuses on a small group of key sample-points around the reference point and make itself be able to capture dynamically the local features of input feature map without considering the size of the feature map. Its introduction into point cloud registration will be quicker and easier to extract local geometric features from point cloud than attention. Therefore, we propose a point cloud registration method based on Spatial Deformable Transformer (SDT). SDT consists of a deformable self-attention module and a cross-attention module where the deformable self-attention module is used to enhance local geometric feature representation and the cross-attention module is employed to enhance feature discriminative capability of spatial correspondences. The experimental results show that compared to state-of-the-art registration methods, SDT has a better matching recall, inlier ratio, and registration recall on 3DMatch and 3DLoMatch scene, and has a better generalization ability and time efficiency on ModelNet40 and ModelLoNet40 scene.
Brain connectivity analysis based classification of obstructive sleep apnea using electroencephalogram signals
Authors: Rajeswari J. , Jagannath M.
Published: March 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder which blocks the upper airway during sleep. The severity of OSA will lead heart attack, stroke and end of life. This proposed study explored the classification of OSA and healthy subjects using brain connectivity analysis from electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. Institute of System and Robotics—University of Coimbra (ISRUC) database were used for acquiring 50 EEG signals using 4 channels and noise removal has been accomplished by 50 Hz notch filter. The Institute of System and Robotics—University of Coimbra (ISRUC) database contained 50 EEG signals, with four channels, and a 50 Hz notch filter was applied to remove noise. Wavelet packet decomposition method was performing the segregation of EEG signals into five bands; Gamma (γ), beta (β), alpha (α), theta (θ) and delta (δ). A total of 4 electrode positions were used for the brain connectivity analysis for each EEG band. Pearson correlation method was effectively used for measuring the correlation between healthy and OSA subjects. The nodes and edges were highlighted the connection between brain and subjects. The highest correlation was achieved in delta band of OSA subjects which starts from 0.7331 to 0.9172 respectively. For healthy subjects, the positive correlation achieved was 0.6995. The delta band has been correlated well with brain when compared other bands. It has been noted that the positive correlation well associated with brain in OSA subjects, which classifies OSA from healthy subjects.
New pan-ALK inhibitor-resistant EML4::ALK mutations detected by liquid biopsy in lung cancer patients
Authors: Villa Matteo , Malighetti Federica , Sala Elisa , Sharma Geeta G. , Arosio Giulia , Gemelli Maria , Manfroni Chiara , Fontana Diletta , Cordani Nicoletta , Meneveri Raffaella , Zambon Alfonso , Piazza Rocco , Pagni Fabio , Cortinovis Diego , Mologni Luca
Published: March 2024

ALK and ROS1 fusions are effectively targeted by tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), however patients inevitably relapse after an initial response, often due to kinase domain mutations. We investigated circulating DNA from TKI-relapsed NSCLC patients by deep-sequencing. New EML4::ALK substitutions, L1198R, C1237Y and L1196P, were identified in the plasma of NSCLC ALK patients and characterized in a Ba/F3 cell model. Variants C1237Y and L1196P demonstrated pan-inhibitor resistance across 5 clinical and 2 investigational TKIs.
Advance in additive manufacturing of 2D materials at the atomic and close-to-atomic scale
Authors: Chen Yixin , Fang Fengzhou , Zhang Nan
Published: March 2024

Atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing (ACSM) has emerged as promising technologies in the manufacturing paradigm. Among various materials, 2D materials have garnered significant attention for ACSM due to their atomic-scale characteristics and physical properties. While chemical vapor deposition (CVD) can be employed to produce high-quality 2D materials, achieving patterning often relies on photolithography techniques, which limit scalability and introduce impurities. To address these challenges, this article serves as a review by focusing on exploring atomic-scale additive manufacturing methods for 2D materials. Several potential techniques are reviewed, including site-selective CVD, area-selective atomic layer deposition, electrodeposition, laser-assisted synthesis, print methods, and atomic layer-aligned stacking. The applications of atomic-scale additive manufacturing in various fields, such as electronics, biosensing, and nanoelectromechanical systems, are discussed. Finally, the future prospects of atomic-scale additive manufacturing for 2D materials based on existing research are delved into.
Building trust in deep learning-based immune response predictors with interpretable explanations
Authors: Borole Piyush , Rajan Ajitha
Published: March 2024

The ability to predict whether a peptide will get presented on Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecules has profound implications in designing vaccines. Numerous deep learning-based predictors for peptide presentation on MHC class I molecules exist with high levels of accuracy. However, these MHC class I predictors are treated as black-box functions, providing little insight into their decision making. To build turst in these predictors, it is crucial to understand the rationale behind their decisions with human-interpretable explanations. We present MHCXAI, eXplainable AI (XAI) techniques to help interpret the outputs from MHC class I predictors in terms of input peptide features. In our experiments, we explain the outputs of four state-of-the-art MHC class I predictors over a large dataset of peptides and MHC alleles. Additionally, we evaluate the reliability of the explanations by comparing against ground truth and checking their robustness. MHCXAI seeks to increase understanding of deep learning-based predictors in the immune response domain and build trust with validated explanations.
Dynamic contrast optical coherence tomography (DyC-OCT) for label-free live cell imaging
Authors: Ren Chao , Hao Senyue , Wang Fei , Matt Abigail , Amaral Marcello Magri , Yang Daniel , Wang Leyao , Zhou Chao
Published: March 2024

Dynamic contrast optical coherence tomography (DyC-OCT), an emerging imaging method, utilizes fluctuation patterns in OCT signals to enhance contrast, thereby enabling non-invasive label-free volumetric live cell imaging. In this mini review, we explain the core concepts behind DyC-OCT image formation and its system configurations, serving as practical guidance for future DyC-OCT users. Subsequently, we explore its applications in delivering high-quality, contrast-enhanced images of cellular morphology, as well as in monitoring changes in cellular activity/viability assay experiments.
Environmental DNA identifies coastal plant community shift 1,000 years ago in Torrens Island, South Australia
Authors: Foster Nicole R. , Jones Alice R. , Serrano Oscar , Lafratta Anna , Lavery Paul S. , van Dijk Kor-jent , Biffin Ed , Gillanders Bronwyn M. , Young Jennifer , Masque Pere , Gadd Patricia S. , Jacobsen Geraldine E. , Zawadzki Atun , Greene Andria , Waycott Michelle
Published: March 2024

Anthropogenic activities are causing detrimental changes to coastal plants– namely seagrass, mangrove, and tidal marshes. Looking beyond recent times to past vegetation dynamics is critical to assess the response and resilience of an environment to change. Here, we develop a high-resolution multi-proxy approach, providing a new evidence base to decipher long-term change in coastal plant communities. Combining targeted environmental DNA analysis with chemical analysis of soils, we reconstructed 4,000 years of change at a temperate wetland on Torrens Island South Australia and identified an ecosystem shift that occurred ~ 1000 years ago. What was once a subtidal seagrass system shifted to an intertidal mangrove environment that persists at this site today. We demonstrate that high-resolution historical changes in coastal vegetation can be attained using these proxies. This approach could be applied to other ecosystems to improve the way we protect, conserve, and restore vegetated ecosystems.
Mental health outcomes, literacy and service provision in low- and middle-income settings: a systematic review of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Ngamaba Kayonda Hubert , Lombo Laddy Sedzo , Makopa Israël Kenda , Webber Martin , Liuta Jack M. , Madinga Joule Ntwan , Mampunza Samuel Ma Miezi , Heap Cheyann
Published: March 2024

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the prevalence of mental health issues could be greater than in other low-income and middle-income countries because of major risk factors related to armed conflicts and poverty. Given that mental health is an essential component of health, it is surprising that no systematic evaluation of mental health in the DRC has yet been undertaken. This study aims to undertake the first systematic review of mental health literacy and service provision in the DRC, to bridge this gap and inform those who need to develop an evidence base. This could support policymakers in tackling the issues related to limited mental health systems and service provision in DRC. Following Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines, a systematic (Web of Science, Medline, Public Health, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar) search was conducted (January 2000 and August 2023). Combinations of key blocks of terms were used in the search such as DRC, war zone, mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, sexual violence, war trauma, resilience, mental health systems and service provision. We followed additional sources from reference lists of included studies. Screening was completed in two stages: title and abstract search, and full-text screening for relevance and quality. Overall, 50 studies were included in the review; the majority of studies (n = 31) were conducted in the Eastern region of the DRC, a region devastated by war and sexual violence. Different instruments were used to measure participants’ mental health such as the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist (HSCL-25), The Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9); General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), and Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS). Our study found that wartime sexual violence and extreme poverty are highly traumatic, and cause multiple, long-term mental health difficulties. We found that depression, anxiety, and PTSD were the most common problems in the DRC. Psychosocial interventions such as group therapy, family support, and socio-economic support were effective in reducing anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. This systematic review calls attention to the need to support sexual violence survivors and many other Congolese people affected by traumatic events. This review also highlights the need for validating culturally appropriate measures, and the need for well-designed controlled intervention studies in low-income settings such as the DRC. Better public mental health systems and service provision could help to improve community cohesion, human resilience, and mental wellbeing. There is also an urgent need to address wider social issues such as poverty, stigma, and gender inequality in the DRC.
Opportunistic plant observations reveal spatial and temporal gradients in phenology
Authors: Rzanny Michael , Mäder Patrick , Wittich Hans Christian , Boho David , Wäldchen Jana
Published: March 2024

Opportunistic plant records provide a rapidly growing source of spatiotemporal plant observation data. Here, we used such data to explore the question whether they can be used to detect changes in species phenologies. Examining 19 herbaceous and one woody plant species in two consecutive years across Europe, we observed significant shifts in their flowering phenology, being more pronounced for spring-flowering species (6-17 days) compared to summer-flowering species (1-6 days). Moreover, we show that these data are suitable to model large-scale relationships such as “Hopkins’ bioclimatic law” which quantifies the phenological delay with increasing elevation, latitude, and longitude. Here, we observe spatial shifts, ranging from –5 to 50 days per 1000 m elevation to latitudinal shifts ranging from –1 to 4 days per degree northwards, and longitudinal shifts ranging from –1 to 1 day per degree eastwards, depending on the species. Our findings show that the increasing volume of purely opportunistic plant observation data already provides reliable phenological information, and therewith can be used to support global, high-resolution phenology monitoring in the face of ongoing climate change.
Structural basis for RAD18 regulation by MAGEA4 and its implications for RING ubiquitin ligase binding by MAGE family proteins
Authors: Griffith-Jones Simonne , Álvarez Lucía , Mukhopadhyay Urbi , Gharbi Sarah , Rettel Mandy , Adams Michael , Hennig Janosch , Bhogaraju Sagar
Published: March 2024

MAGEA4 is a cancer-testis antigen primarily expressed in the testes but aberrantly overexpressed in several cancers. MAGEA4 interacts with the RING ubiquitin ligase RAD18 and activates trans-lesion DNA synthesis (TLS), potentially favouring tumour evolution. Here, we employed NMR and AlphaFold2 (AF) to elucidate the interaction mode between RAD18 and MAGEA4, and reveal that the RAD6-binding domain (R6BD) of RAD18 occupies a groove in the C-terminal winged-helix subdomain of MAGEA4. We found that MAGEA4 partially displaces RAD6 from the RAD18 R6BD and inhibits degradative RAD18 autoubiquitination, which could be countered by a competing peptide of the RAD18 R6BD. AlphaFold2 and cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) also revealed an evolutionary invariant intramolecular interaction between the catalytic RING and the DNA-binding SAP domains of RAD18, which is essential for PCNA mono-ubiquitination. Using interaction proteomics, we found that another Type-I MAGE, MAGE-C2, interacts with the RING ubiquitin ligase TRIM28 in a manner similar to the MAGEA4/RAD18 complex, suggesting that the MAGEA4 peptide-binding groove also serves as a ligase-binding cleft in other type-I MAGEs. Our data provide new insights into the mechanism and regulation of RAD18-mediated PCNA mono-ubiquitination.
Association between brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and the risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation: A report from Kailuan prospective cohort study
Authors: Song Wenhua , Song Zongshuang , Zhang Nan , Zhang Meijuan , Tse Gary , Chou Oscar Hou In , Li Guangping , Yan Gan-Xin , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Wu Shouling , Liu Tong
Published: March 2024

One marker of arterial stiffness (AS) is the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). We aim to investigate the predictive value of baPWV with regard to new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). All participants without AF from 2010 to 2020 in the Kailuan cohort were included. The primary endpoint was new-onset AF. Participants were categorized into three study groups based on baPWV, with a normal baPWV group as a reference. The predictive value of baPWV was analyzed as a continuous variable. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to investigate the association. A total of 49,872 subjects (mean age: 47.57 years old, 74.2% male) were included with a mean follow-up of 6.17 (3.95–8.46) years. The risk of AF increased as the baseline baPWV increased, whereby the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of the borderline AS group and the elevated AS group were 1.82 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18–2.80) and 2.08 (95% CI: 1.31–3.30), respectively. When considered as a continuous variable, each 361 cm/s increase in baseline baPWV, increased the risk of AF by 21.7% (aHR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.08–1.37). In the subgroup analysis of non-hypertensive patients, the risks of AF were significantly higher in the borderline AS group (aHR: 3.16, 95% CI: 1.74–5.74) and elevated AS group (aHR: 2.26, 95% CI: 1.02–5.05). For patients with elevated BMI, the risk of AF in the elevated AS group was significantly higher (aHR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.00–2.83). Baseline baPWV was associated with new-onset AF after adjustments. (Trial registration site and registration number are, respectively, http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx and ChiCTR-TNRC-11001489).
Resolving phytosterols in microalgae using offline two-dimensional reversed phase liquid chromatography-supercritical fluid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Batteau Magali , Bouju Elodie , Ramirez-Romero Adriana , Nuccio Sylvie , De Vaumas René , Delrue Florian , Faure Karine
Published: March 2024

Development of an off-line LC-SFc-MS method, separation of sterol isomers in algal unsaponifiable fractions, elution pattern helping in the reduction of structural candidates.
Ionic liquid-mediated ethosome for transdermal delivery of insulin
Authors: Nabila Fahmida Habib , Islam Rashedul , Shimul Islam Md , Moniruzzaman Muhammad , Wakabayashi Rie , Kamiya Noriho , Goto Masahiro
Published: March 2024

Ethosome formulations mediated by ionic liquid were reported with high insulin encapsulation efficiency and increased skin permeation ability.
Nucleation control and separation of ethyl maltol polymorphs under different growth conditions through solution crystallization process in selected solvent environments
Authors: Thirumalaisamy Anitha , Karuppannan Srinivasan
Published: March 2024

Nucleation control, separation and growth of Form-I, II & III polymorphs of ethyl maltol were achieved through solution crystallization processes. Morphology, unit cell structure and polymorphic phase transformations were revealed for the first time.
Forming SnS@C/MoS2 nanotubes with high specific surface area via self-sacrificing template method as superior performance anode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Ye Songwei , Yang Zunxian , Ye Yuliang , Cheng Zhiming , Hong Hongyi , Zeng Zhiwei , Meng Zongyi , Lan Qianting , Zhang Hui , Chen Ye , Wang Jiaxiang , Bai Yuting , Jiang Xudong , Liu Benfang , Hong Jiajie , Guo Tailiang , Xu Shen , Weng Zhenzhen , Chen Yongyi
Published: March 2024

1) The coated carbon from Sn-MOF carbonization with the nanosheet architecture improves the specific surface area; 2) the heterojunction between SnS and MoS2 provides active sites; 3) the surface carbon provides a large number of active sites.
Adsorption behavior of H2O on the strontium bromide surface: first-principles and molecular dynamics calculations
Authors: Wang Zhen , Yan Ting , Pan W. G.
Published: March 2024

Thermochemical adsorption heat storage based on gas–solid interaction is an energy storage technology for the effective recovery of industrial waste heat and renewable energy sources such as solar energy.
A microscopically heterogeneous colloid electrolyte of covalent organic nanosheets for ultrahigh-voltage and low-temperature lithium metal batteries
Authors: Zhang Weifeng , Jiang Guoxing , Zou Wenwu , Chen Xilong , Peng Siyuan , Qi Shengguang , Hu Renzong , Song Huiyu , Cui Zhiming , Du Li , Liang Zhenxing
Published: March 2024

A microscopically heterogeneous electrolyte with host–guest interactions can withstand the harsh working conditions of lithium metal batteries.
Nanoscale control over water-film thickness using temperature modulation: tuning mineral carbonation reactivity
Authors: Thompson Christopher J. , Mergelsberg Sebastian T. , Rajan Bavan P. , Martin Paul F. , Kerisit Sebastien N. , Loring John S.
Published: March 2024

Temperature modulation was demonstrated as a novel way to control water partitioning during the reaction of silicate minerals with water-saturated supercritical carbon dioxide.
Dietary serine intake is associated with cognitive function among US adults
Authors: Chen Jingyi , Fang Shuhua , Cai Zeman , Zhao Qing , Yang Nian
Published: March 2024

Dietary intake of serine can modify the risk of cognitive decline.
Strategies for avoiding the scaling relationship in ammonia synthesis with non-thermal plasma methods – the “shift” or “break” approach
Authors: Zhang Baiqiang , Li Junhui , Zuo Hengfei , Liang Yongqi , Wang Jia , Chen Yuhui , Chen Gang , Kamiya Kenji , Kobayashi Nobusuke , Wu Bo
Published: March 2024

Strategies for avoiding scaling relations of ammonia synthesis on the transition metal catalysts are reviewed. The green plasma ammonia processes on N2 and H2/H2O are emphasized.
A hierarchically modified fibre-reinforced polymer composite laminate with graphene nanotube coatings operating as an efficient thermoelectric generator
Authors: Mytafides Christos K. , Tzounis Lazaros , Tsirka Kyriaki , Karalis George , Liebscher Marco , Lambrou Eleftherios , Gergidis Leonidas N. , Paipetis Alkiviadis S.
Published: March 2024

SWCNT-p-type TE films on GF with a power factor of 96 μW m−1 K−2. SWCNT-n-type TE films on GF with a power factor of 82 μW m−1 K−2. The GFRP–OTEG exhibited: VOC = 1.01 V, ISC = 850 μA, Pmax = 215 μW.
2,3-Dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones and quinazolin-4(3H)-ones as broad-spectrum cytotoxic agents and their impact on tubulin polymerisation
Authors: O'Brien Nicholas S. , Gilbert Jayne , McCluskey Adam , Sakoff Jennette A.
Published: March 2024

Simple synthesis, binds and inhibits tubulin, and potent broad-spectrum cytotoxicity.
Theoretical study for the reaction of fission products Cs and I elements with steam in the HTR-PM primary loop
Authors: Wang Kerong , Guo Jingni , Xie Feng , Li Peng , Ma Jie
Published: March 2024

The reaction products of the radioactive fission nuclides cesium and iodine with steam in the HTR-PM primary circuit are mainly CsOH, CsO, IO, IOH and HI.
Peptide-linked perylenebisimide and ferrocene dicarboxylic acid conjugates with tunable optoelectronic properties
Authors: Hansda Biswanath , Hazra Soumyajit , Hazra Niladri , Ghosh Purnadas , Banerjee Arindam
Published: March 2024

Peptide linked perylenebisimide and ferrocene dicarboxylic acid conjugates display wonderful and tunable optoelectronic properties.
Numerical modeling and in situ small angle X-ray scattering characterization of ultra-small SPION magnetophoresis in a high field and gradient separator
Authors: Wu Xian , Choe Hyeon , Strayer Jacob , Gómez-Pastora Jenifer , Zborowski Maciej , Wyslouzil Barbara , Chalmers Jeffrey
Published: March 2024

Ultra-small SPIONs were successfully separated using high magnetic fields and gradients. In situ SAXS and numerical simulation were used to investigate the magnetophoresis process.
Biological electricity generation system based on mitochondria-nanochannel-red blood cells
Authors: Wang Yuting , Chen Huaxiang , Yang Xiaoda , Diao Xungang , Zhai Jin
Published: March 2024

This work presents a bio-inspired electricity generation device, utilizing mitochondria and oxygen-carrying red blood cells (RBCs) for advancing sustainable energy technologies.
Cation exchange synthesis of AgBiS2 quantum dots for highly efficient solar cells
Authors: Senina Alina , Prudnikau Anatol , Wrzesińska-Lashkova Angelika , Vaynzof Yana , Paulus Fabian
Published: March 2024

In this study, a cation exchange reaction for the synthesis of ternary AgBiS2 quantum dots is reported. AgBiS2 quantum dots obtained via this synthetic route lead to high-efficiency photovoltaic devices.
The absorption properties of ZrO2 nanoparticles in the THz and sub-THz frequency ranges
Authors: MacDougall Jessica , Namai Asuka , Jia Fangda , Yoshikiyo Marie , Ohkoshi Shin-ichi
Published: March 2024

This paper presents the optical properties of m-ZrO2 nanoparticles in the sub-THz and THz frequency ranges, showing the significant effect of small particle size and related increase in chemisorbed water.
Detection of sulfur mustard simulant by trisaryl phosphoric triamide-based resin using a quartz crystal microbalance sensor
Authors: Heo Jaeyoung , Park Jin Hyun , Song Sun Gu , Lee Seongwoo , Lim Seongyeop , Lee Chang Young , Bae Han Yong , Song Changsik
Published: March 2024

We have developed a receptor with a triamide structure that demonstrates superior detection capability at room temperature compared to existing research on 2-CEES gas.
Piggery waste to sustainable fuels via indirect supercritical water gasification and membrane reforming at 600 °C: a techno-economic assessment
Authors: Bardwell Louise , Rahbari Alireza , Wang Ye , Amidy Martin , Pye John
Published: March 2024

This novel low-temperature process enables continuous processing via heat from renewable energy with thermal energy storage in molten salts.
Review and assessment of models for predicting biocrude yields from hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass
Authors: Guirguis Peter M. , Seshasayee Mahadevan Subramanya , Motavaf Bita , Savage Phillip E.
Published: March 2024

Examining component additivity and reaction engineering literature models for best predictions of biocrude yields from hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass feedstocks.
The application of a self-designed microfluidic lung chip in the assessment of different inhalable aerosols
Authors: Li Zezhi , Li Xiang , Feng Boyang , Zhao Junwei , Liu Kejian , Xie Fuwei , Xie Jianping
Published: March 2024

Microfluidic-based assessment platforms have recently attracted considerable attention and have been widely used for evaluating in vitro toxic effects.