bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Top advances of the year: Gastroesophageal cancer
Authors: Goodman Karyn A. , Hotca Alexandra , Liu Mengyuan , Strong Vivian E. , Ilson David H.
Published: April 2024

The advancement of minimally invasive surgery, a clearer definition of the role of radiation therapy, and the incorporation of immunotherapy have changed the management of esophagogastric cancers. Novel agents targeting new pathways continue to move forward.
UBE2C: A pan‐cancer diagnostic and prognostic biomarker revealed through bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Jalali Pooya , Samii Amir , Rezaee Malihe , Shahmoradi Arvin , Pashizeh Fatemeh , Salehi Zahra
Published: April 2024

Background

The diverse and complex attributes of cancer have made it a daunting challenge to overcome globally and remains to endanger human life. Detection of critical cancer‐related gene alterations in solid tumor samples better defines patient diagnosis and prognosis, and indicates what targeted therapies must be administered to improve cancer patients' outcome.

Materials and methods

To identify genes that have aberrant expression across different cancer types, differential expressed genes were detected within the TCGA datasets. Subsequently, the DEGs common to all pan cancers were determined. Furthermore, various methods were employed to gain genetic alterations, co‐expression genes network and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, pathway enrichment analysis of common genes. Finally, the gene regulatory network was constructed.

Results

Intersectional analysis identified UBE2C as a common DEG between all 28 types of studied cancers. Upregulated UBE2C expression was significantly correlated with OS and DFS of 10 and 9 types of cancer patients. Also, UBE2C can be a diagnostic factor in CESC, CHOL, GBM, and UCS with AUC = 100% and diagnose 19 cancer types with AUC ≥90%. A ceRNA network constructed including UBE2C, 41 TFs, 10 shared miRNAs, and 21 circRNAs and 128 lncRNAs.

Conclusion

In summary, UBE2C can be a theranostic gene, which may serve as a reliable biomarker in diagnosing cancers, improving treatment responses and increasing the overall survival of cancer patients and can be a promising gene to be target by cancer drugs in the future.
STRmt: A state transition based model for real‐time crowd counting in a metro system
Authors: Sun Li , Zhao Juanjuan , Zhang Jun , Zhang Fan , Ye Kejiang , Xu Chengzhong
Published: April 2024

Real‐time estimation of crowd counting in underground metro systems, constrained by limited space, is crucial for managing heightened pedestrian volumes and responding promptly to emergencies. To address this challenge, we propose a passenger state transition‐based model, called STRmt, designed for the seamless and continuous monitoring of real‐time crowd movement within service areas of stations and trains, leveraging auto fare collection systems (AFC) as a comprehensive sensor network. Our innovation lies in modeling the dynamic movement of passengers within a metro system over time as a state transition process aligned with the train schedule. To achieve this, we introduce a spatio‐temporal deep learning framework, denoted as STnet, designed to dynamically predict these state transitions. The performance of our method is rigorously assessed through extensive experiments conducted spanning 2 years in Shenzhen, China, utilizing AFC data, train schedule data, and weather data. The results demonstrate that the proposed method surpasses baseline methods, achieving an estimation precision of 0.92.
Research on optimal deep learning‐based formation flight positioning of UAV
Authors: Lu Jing , Li Yongyi
Published: April 2024

The article examines the positional relationships and transmission/reception signal direction information within unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) cluster formations. Considering the distinctive characteristics of various formation shapes (such as circle and cone), a study is conducted on the polar and Cartesian coordinate systems in neural network models to address position deviation issues arising in UAV formation flights. The passive receiving signal UAV positioning model is established by applying the triangular cosine theorem. Additionally, the position relationship model of the UAV is formulated using optimization theory. The article introduces a deep learning‐based deviated UAV adjustment algorithm designed to automatically adjust UAV positions. This is achieved by establishing a triangular relationship between the passive signal receiving UAV and other UAVs. The implementation involves C# programming and MATLAB visualization. The proposed method not only resolves UAV positioning and position adjustment challenges but also optimizes the adjustment strategy. This optimization leads to maximum savings in time and distance costs associated with sending and receiving signals among UAVs, thereby enhancing the overall performance of UAVs during flights.
Construction of Azo‐Linked Covalent Organic Frameworks via Monomer Exchange for Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Zhu Hongqi , Lu Wenjie , Gou Yu , Li Yang , Chen Ligong , Wang Bowei , Yan Xilong
Published: April 2024

The structural uniqueness of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) has brought great potential for their applications in photocatalysis. Two novel azo‐linked COFs AZO‐B‐COF and AZO‐T‐COF were successfully constructed by the monomer exchange method. Significantly, two as‐synthesized azo COFs presented a much higher photodegradation rate of 96 % and 51 % for AZO‐T‐COF and AZO‐B‐COF, respectively, which was in sharp contrast to the almost 0 degradation rate of imine COFs. And as expected, AZO‐T‐COF could be cycled at least 5 runs without a significant decrease in catalytic efficiency. Systematical experiments and theoretical calculations showed that comparing with imine COFs, conjugated structure of azo COFs broadened the visible‐light absorption range and improved the transfer efficiency of the photocarriers. The N‐rich azo bonds acted as an electron acceptor and made the materials better planarity. This work not only enriches COFs family but also demonstrated the superiority of azo‐linked COFs.
Let's Get Rolling: Precise Control of Microfluidic Assay Conditions to Recapitulate Selectin‐Mediated Rolling Interactions of the Leukocyte Adhesion Cascade
Authors: Amoabediny Zeinab , Mittal Aman , Guin Subham , Buffone Jr Alexander
Published: April 2024

The leukocyte adhesion cascade governs the recruitment of circulating immune cells from the vasculature to distal sites. The initial adhesive interactions between cell surface ligands displaying sialyl‐LewisX (sLeX) and endothelial E‐ and P‐selectins serve to slow the cells down enough to interact more closely with the surface, polarize, and exit into the tissues. Therefore, precise microfluidic assays are critical in modeling how well immune cells can interact and “roll” on selectins to slow down enough to complete further steps of the cascade. Here, we present a systematic protocol for selectin mediated rolling on recombinant surfaces and endothelial cell monolayers on polyacrylamide gels of varying stiffness. We also describe step‐by‐step the protocol for setting up and performing the experiment and how to analyze and present the data collected. This protocol serves to simplify and detail the procedure needed to investigate the initial selectin‐mediated interactions of immune cells with the vasculature. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparing dishes for cell rolling experiments

Basic Protocol 2: Fabrication of polyacrylamide gels for cell rolling experiments

Alternate Protocol 1: Protein conjugation with N6 linker

Alternate Protocol 2: HUVEC culturing for monolayers

Basic Protocol 3: Conducting cell rolling experiments on polyacrylamide gels

Basic Protocol 4: ImageJ analysis of cell rolling movies

Basic Protocol 5: Quantification of Fc site density on a surface (e.g., for Fc chimeras)
Analysis of the quality of sustainability reports published by Brazilian companies: An analytic hierarchy process‐grey clustering approach
Authors: Sousa Isabela Caroline de , Sigahi Tiago F. A. C. , Rampasso Izabela Simon , Pinto Jefferson de Souza , Zanon Lucas Gabriel , Leal Filho Walter , Anholon Rosley
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to assess the extent to which Brazilian companies adhere to the accuracy, balance, clarity, comparability, reliability, and timeliness criteria recommended by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards. A survey was conducted with experts in sustainability reporting with extensive experience in the Brazilian corporate context. The analytic hierarchy process was employed to assign weights to the criteria, and a grey fixed weight clustering model was proposed to analyze the collected data. Clarity and accuracy received the highest weights, which is concerning given the quality observed in sustainability reports. A lower emphasis on timeliness in sustainability reporting reflects many companies' publishing practices, prompting more efficient reporting. The majority of respondents perceive the quality of information in sustainability reports from Brazilian companies as falling within the medium maturity range, suggesting significant room for enhancement. The originality of this study lies both in the methodological approach, which combines multicriteria decision techniques capable of incorporating uncertainty related to data on sustainability reports, as well as in the results that provide information for improving sustainability reporting practices. The findings provide a foundation for companies and policymakers to enhance sustainability reporting, particularly in developing nations, promoting transparency, accountability, and international standard compliance.
Arginine Acts as both Co‐Solvent and Catalyst in Regioselective Eutectic‐Mediated Dimerization of Levulinic Acid
Authors: Neal Taylor , Dull Joseph , Barnabas Freddy , Bacca Lori , Thomas Jacqueline , Moore Curtis , Sun Yiping , Badjić Jovica
Published: April 2024

A simple, solvent‐free arginine‐catalyzed aldol dimerization of levulinic acid was achieved via the simultaneous formation of a eutectic mixture. Dimers of levulinic acid are valued as biomass‐derived fine chemical precursors, with potential to upgrade to bio‐jet fuels or N‐containing functional chemicals. Typically, these dimers are produced as isomeric mixtures using high temperatures and a variety of solid inorganic catalysts or mineral acids. In this study, an organocatalytic and regioselective dimerization was achieved at 22 % conversion on either a bench or kilogram scale using mild temperatures and only L‐arginine as both a co‐solvent and catalyst. The intricate H‐bonding network comprising the eutectic solvent was harnessed to produce only one product, minimizing side reactivity and preserving the reactants for recycling.
A multi‐receiver adaptive design of variable magnetic coupled structure for omnidirectional WPT system
Authors: Li Musong , Zhang Xian , Dai Zhongyu , Chen Zhixin , Wang Ran , Xiao Xingtao
Published: April 2024

Omnidirectional Wireless Power Transfer (OWPT) system can provide power to multiple loads in space. The different loads have different requirements for current and power levels under various operating conditions. This paper proposes a Variable Receiving Coil (VRC) structure and its control strategy. Active regulation of the output current is achieved by adjusting the geometric size of the receiving coil. Meets the power supply needs of equipment in different scenarios. This design allows the effective value of the VRC current to remain stable within the range of 1.01–1.62A (transmission distance of 22–27 cm). By adjusting the geometric transformation state of the VRC, different output currents can be obtained under fixed positions, loads, and input voltages. The designed receiver can meet the differential current requirements of multiple spatial loads, and is insensitive to factors such as load, transmission distance, and rotation angle. This system can reduce the design complexity of charging and power supply systems and effectively promote the application of Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) in the field of Internet of Things devices.
Using ecological niche modelling to prioritise areas for conservation of the critically endangered Buffy‐Headed marmoset (Callithrix flaviceps)
Authors: Bataillard Léa , Eriksen Ane , de Melo Fabiano R. , Milagres Adriana Pereira , Devineau Olivier , Vital Orlando Vítor
Published: April 2024

Endemic to the Atlantic Forest in Southeastern Brazil, the critically endangered Buffy‐Headed marmoset (Callithrix flaviceps) is lacking the required attention for effective conservation. We modelled its ecological niche with the main objectives of (1) defining suitable habitat and (2) prioritising areas for conservation and/or restoration. The current geographical range ofCallithrix flavicepsin the Atlantic Forest of Southeast Brazil. We used Ensemble Species Distribution Modelling to define current habitat suitability considering four climate and two landscape variables. To identify areas to prioritise for conservation and/or restoration, we predicted future habitat suitability considering the intermediate (RCP4.5) and extreme (RCP8.5) climate change scenarios for the years 2050 and 2070. Among the variables included to predict current species distribution, tree canopy cover, precipitation seasonality and temperature seasonality were the most important whereas digital elevation model and precipitation during the wettest month were the least important.Callithrix flavicepswas most likely to occur in areas with tree canopy cover >80%, high precipitation seasonality and temperature seasonality between 21 and 23°C. From the future suitability prediction maps, the Caparaó National Park stands out as a likely key area for the preservation of the species. Furthermore, high climatic suitability but low landscape suitability suggests that habitat restoration in ‘Serra das Torres’ (South of the current distribution area) might be a useful strategy. However, creating ecological corridors on the west side of Caparaó would be necessary to improve connectivity. More surveys within and beyond the current geographical range are required to define more precisely the distribution of the species. Our results support the notion that seasonality is important forCallithrix flavicepsand that as a montane species, it prefers colder environments and higher altitudes. Within both climate change scenarios, Caparaó National Park was predicted to be highly suitable, with a high probability of presence.
Normal fat intake with high MUFA content and an appropriate SFA/MUFA/PUFA ratio improved the health of rats
Authors: Zhou Yuhao , Yang Ligang , Chu Chu , Chen Shiqing , Yue Danwei , Hao Yoong Jun , Sun Guiju , Xia Hui
Published: April 2024

The quantity and quality of dietary fats have a significant impact on human health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different cooking oils (olive oil (OO), soybean oil (SO), and blended oil (BO)) on growth, glucolipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress of rats fed normal and high‐fat diets. The results showed that the OO‐fed group had lower concentrations of serum triglyceride (TG), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidized LDL‐C (ox‐LDL‐C), and serum total cholesterol (TC) than the normal‐fat SO‐fed group, and rats in the BO‐fed group had lower values of serum interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐α), and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) than the normal‐fat SO‐fed groups. However, higher serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity was observed in the OO‐fed group, while those fed with BO had higher serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and GSH‐Px activities. Generally, most health‐beneficial fatty acid profiles have a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), an appropriate saturated fatty acid (SFA)/MUFA/poly unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio, and a low n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratio, while diets contained a high content of fat is detrimental to health.
Estimation and selection for spatial zero‐inflated count models
Authors: Shen Chung‐Wei , Chen Chun‐Shu
Published: April 2024

The count data arise in many scientific areas. Our concerns here focus on spatial count responses with an excessive number of zeros and a set of available covariates. Estimating model parameters and selecting important covariates for spatial zero‐inflated count models are both essential. Importantly, to alleviate deviations from model assumptions, we propose a spatial zero‐inflated Poisson‐like methodology to model this type of data, which relies only on assumptions for the first two moments of spatial count responses. We then design an effective iterative estimation procedure between the generalized estimating equation and the weighted least squares method to respectively estimate the regression coefficients and the variogram of the data model. Moreover, the stabilization of estimators is evaluated via a block jackknife technique. Furthermore, a distribution‐free model selection criterion based on an estimate of the mean squared error of the estimated mean structure is proposed to select the best subset of covariates. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is demonstrated by simulation studies under various scenarios, and a real dataset regarding the number of maternal deaths in Mozambique is analyzed for illustration.
Life cycle assessment and life cycle costing approach for building decarbonization by design choices: A case study
Authors: Umdu Emin Selahattin , Yildirim Nurdan , Güzel Poyraz , Alakavuk Ebru , Cinar Umdu Duygu
Published: April 2024

Decarbonizing the urban environment has two significant challenges: Increasing electricity demand due to the electrification of space heating and increased renewables share in the electricity supply. The European Commission defines a new grid support mechanism for peak‐shaving products in renewed Electricity Market Design. This aims to enable a new market tool to stabilize electric supply and demand. This study examines a grid‐integrated thermal storage device's technical feasibility and economic performance to meet net zero building (nZEB) definitions. Alternative scenarios considering current national nZEB targets, present energy market options, and regulations are compared using the life cycle cost and the global warming potentials over the building lifetime. The results show that better building performance is possible even with a low investment increase of 6.7% compared to minimum building standards based on regulations. This enables older building cases to perform similarly with new building targets for Turkish National nZEB. Building electrification using heat pumps and thermal storage systems gives similar economic performances in the long term when a dynamic electricity tariff is available. Adapting the life cycle approach to decision‐making in construction contracts can lead to a 50% decrease in building emissions while staying within the same construction budget.
Performance and reporting predictability of hedge funds
Authors: Becker‐Foss Elisa
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a predictive approach to forecast future hedge fund performances and reporting stops to a commercial database within a subsequent year. We found that gradient boosting of decision trees is well suited to make a prognosis about the future development and reporting stops of hedge funds. The derived models are trained and evaluated using a panel of 5,592 individual hedge funds. We rank the impact of 22 variables that are computed out of hedge fund reporting (micro variables) and three different market environments (macro variables) on the predictability of hedge fund performance. In this way, we show the economic reasonability of the computed models and demonstrate the superiority of statistical learning algorithms.
Constructing a high‐frequency World Economic Gauge using a mixed‐frequency dynamic factor model
Authors: Lian Chua Chew , Tsiaplias Sarantis , Zhou Ruining
Published: April 2024

This paper uses information at the daily, monthly, and quarterly frequencies to construct a daily World Economic Gauge (WEG). We postulate a mixed‐frequency dynamic factor model to extract data observable at different frequencies in order to track the health of the global economy. We show that the WEG offers a reliable basis for tracking economic activity during key events such as COVID‐19 and the Global Financial Crisis. Moreover, the WEG is shown to contain leading information about the output growth of the OECD, G7, NAFTA, European Union, and euro areas, in addition to the output growth of 42 individual countries.
Seasonal dynamics of water and sediment in the permafrost basin of the Qinghai‐Tibet plateau and its driving factors
Authors: Xiao JinWang , Li JinLong , Sun Shouqin , Wang GenXu
Published: April 2024

Climate change has regulated cryosphere‐fed rivers and altered interannual and seasonal sediment dynamics, with significant implications for terrestrial material cycles and downstream aquatic ecosystems. However, there has been a notable scarcity of research focusing on the patterns of water–sediment transport within these permafrost zones. Integrating 6 years (2017–2022) of in‐situ observational data from FengHuoShan basin with the partial least squares‐structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) method, we analyse the driving factors, characteristics and seasonal patterns of the water–sediment transport process. We observed a gradual increase in both suspended sediment flux (SSF, Mt/yr) and runoff (Q, km3/yr) within the basin, with annual growth rates of 1.34%/yr and 0.75%/yr, respectively. It is worth noting that these growth rates exhibit seasonal variations, with the highest values observed in spring (SSF: 1.76%/yr, Q: 1.71%/yr). This indicates that the response to climate change is more pronounced in spring compared with summer and autumn. Through mathematical statistics and the PLS‐SEM model, we found that temperature plays a predominant role in the dynamics of water–sediment in both spring and autumn, whereas rainfall exerts a more significant impact during the summer. Most suspended sediment concentration (SSC, kg/m3) peak events throughout the year are primarily driven by rainfall. Affected by the freeze–thaw cycle of permafrost, SSC and discharge (Q, m3/s) exhibit distinct seasonality. SSC and Q demonstrate a clockwise trend; both Q and SSC begin to increase from May and peak in August before declining. The insights gleaned from this study hold significant implications for water resource management and soil conservation strategies in the region, particularly in the face of ongoing climatic changes characterized by warming and increased humidity.
Selenium–mercury interactions and relationship to aquatic toxicity: a review
Authors: Adams William J , Duguay Alexandra
Published: April 2024

A review of the literature pertaining to selenium–mercury (Se/Hg) interactions in aquatic species was performed to provide insight into the mechanisms allowing for the reported changes in bioaccumulation and toxicity that have been observed when the two elements occur at elevated concentrations. Selenium (Se) has been shown to protect against mercury (Hg) toxicity in all animal models evaluated (fish, birds, mammals, and plants). To explore the interaction between the two elements, data are presented on concentrations of both elements in wild-caught fish at numerous locations. The data show that most fish have Se/Hg ratios >1.0. The importance of this ratio has been reported, with suggestions that the protective interaction is due in large part to the formation of HgSe. Data show that when the Se/Hg molar ratio is <1.0 in the diet of fish and animals, Hg toxicity will be expressed, provided that the Hg concentration is sufficiently high. This toxicity is likely the result of Se deficiency leading to an excess of reactive oxygen species. Laboratory fish toxicity studies reviewed show that Se toxicity can be reduced or eliminated when Hg is added to the diet in moderate amounts. Field studies have shown reduced accumulation of Hg when Se concentrations are increased. When Hg in the diet is significantly elevated (usually >10 µg/g), toxicity is expressed regardless of the Se present. Likewise, amelioration of Se toxicity by Hg occurs over a limited range. Tissue thresholds for Se toxicity have been derived primarily from studies where fish eggs were extracted from wild fish and embryo deformities were observed; however, the amount of Hg in the fish or ovaries was not considered, which could lead to uncertainty in the toxicity threshold. It is recommended that both elements be measured and evaluated when performing risk assessments and setting water quality criteria.
Factors influencing the material footprint in the USA
Authors: Kirikkaleli Dervis
Published: April 2024

Using novel approaches, namely Fourier autoregressive distributive lag (F-ADL) cointegration and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (N-ARDL), this article analyzes how infrastructure investment and environmental R&D affected the material footprint from 1995Q1 to 2019Q4 in the USA while controlling financial development and economic growth. The outcomes reveal that (i) a reduction in the material footprint can be achieved through increasing environmentally related R&D; (ii) by increasing the environmental R&D, material consumption can be used more effectively; (iii) an increase in financial development leads to an increase in the material footprint; and (iv) the slowdown of the economy contributes to efficient material consumption. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1217–1224. © 2024 SETAC

Key Points

A reduction in the material footprint can be achieved by increasing environmentally related R&D. By modernizing the environment in the USA, material consumption can be used more efficiently. An increase in financial development increases the material footprint. The slowdown of the economy contributes to efficient material consumption.
Exploring neuroadaptive cellular pathways in chronic morphine exposure: An in‐vitro analysis of cabergoline and Mdivi‐1 co‐treatment effects on the autophagy–apoptosis axis
Authors: Makvand Mina , Mirtorabi Seyed Davood , Campbell Arezoo , Zali Alireza , Ahangari Ghasem
Published: April 2024

The complex impacts of prolonged morphine exposure continue to be a significant focus in the expanding area of addiction studies. This research investigates the effectiveness of a combined treatment using Cabergoline and Mdivi‐1 to counteract the neuroadaptive changes caused by in vitro morphine treatment. The impact of Methadone, Cabergoline, and a combination of Cabergoline and Mdivi‐1 on the cellular and molecular responses associated with Morphine‐induced changes was studied in human Neuroblastoma (SK‐N‐MC) and Glioblastoma (U87‐MG) cell lines that were exposed to prolong Morphine treatment. Cabergoline and Mdivi‐1 combined treatment effectively influenced the molecular alterations associated with neuroadaptation in chronic morphine‐exposed neural cells. This combination therapy normalized autophagy and reduced oxidative stress by enhancing total‐antioxidant capacity, mitigating apoptosis, restoring BDNF expression, and balancing apoptotic elements. Our research outlines morphine's dual role in modulating mitochondrial dynamics via the dysregulation of the autophagy–apoptosis axis. This emphasizes the significant involvement of DRP1 activity in neurological adaptation processes, as well as disturbances in the dopaminergic pathway during in vitro chronic exposure to morphine in neural cells. This study proposes a novel approach by recommending the potential effectiveness of combining Cabergoline and Mdivi‐1 to modulate the neuroadaptations caused by morphine. Additionally, we identified BDNF and PCNA in neural cells as potential neuroprotective markers for assessing the effectiveness of drugs against opioid toxicity, emphasizing the need for further validation. The study uncovers diverse effects observed in pretreated morphine glioblastoma cells under treatment with Cabergoline and methadone. This highlights the potential for new treatments in the DRD2 pathway and underscores the importance of investigating the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis to advance research in managing cancer‐related pain. The study necessitates an in‐depth investigation into the relationship between autophagy and apoptosis, with a specific emphasis on protein interactions and the dynamics of cell signaling.
Exploring the synergistic power: Green synthesis, comprehensive characterization, and unveiling the energy generation and storage aptitude of phyto‐mediated Sb2O3‐ZrO2 nanocomposite
Authors: Azhar Sundus , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Abrahams Isaac , Lin Wang , Gupta Ram K. , Al‐Ammar Essam A. , Ashraf Ghulam Abbas
Published: April 2024

Background

Researchers are keen to reduce the over potential value through fabrication of electrocatalyst consisted of environmentally benign and inexpensive material. Supercapacitors on the other hand have gained immense attention in recent years as an energy storage device due to the high power density potential of these devices as compared to conventional batteries based storage system.

Aim

The research aims to synthesize nanoscale transition metal oxides (TMO) through green route. TMO based nanomaterials have vast role in energy related applications.

Materials & methods

In this study, organic compounds of A. Viridis were used as reducing and stabilizing agents in the synthesis of binary nanocomposite Sb2O3–ZrO2. The synthesized nanocomposite was characterized using x‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The electrode material was analyzed for supercapacitor potential using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge discharge techniques. HER and OER studies were also conducted using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and linear sweep voltammetry. The synthesized material was also tested for stability.

Results & discussion

The crystal size was 15.9 nm. Optical band gap of 2.55 eV was obtained through Tauc plot. The capacitance value of 339.8 F/g at 2 mV/s and the specific capacitance of 100.6 F/g was obtained at 1 A/g. The overpotential value of 201 mV and Tafel value of 121 mV/dec was recorded for the HER, whereas the lower Tafel value of 106 mV/dec and over potential value of 383 mV was determined for OER. Electrode showed promising stability up to various cycles in case of both applications.

Conclusion

The obtained results revealed the promising performance with excellent stability of fabricated electrode for super capacitor as well as water splitting studies.
The immunological understanding on germinal center B cells in psoriasis
Authors: Noor Aina Akmal Mohd , Nor Abdah Karimah Che Md , Redzwan Norhanani Mohd
Published: April 2024

The development of psoriasis is mainly driven by the dysregulation of T cells within the skin, marking a primary involvement of these cells in the pathogenesis. Although B cells are integral components of the immune system, their role in the initiation and progression of psoriasis is not as pivotal as that of T cells. The paradox of B cell suggests that, while it is crucial for adaptive immunity, B cells may contribute to the exacerbation of psoriasis. Numerous ideas proposed that there are potential relationships between psoriasis and B cells especially within germinal centers (GCs). Recent research projected that B cells might be triggered by autoantigens which then induced molecular mimicry to alter B cells activity within GC and generate autoantibodies and pro‐inflammatory cytokines, form ectopic GC, and dysregulate the proliferation of keratinocytes. Hence, in this review, we gathered potential evidence indicating the participation of B cells in psoriasis within the context of GC, aiming to enhance our comprehension and advance treatment strategies for psoriasis thus inviting many new researchers to investigate this issue.
Glycative stress inhibits hypertrophy and impairs cell membrane integrity in overloaded mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Egawa Tatsuro , Ogawa Takeshi , Yokokawa Takumi , Kido Kohei , Iyama Ryota , Zhao Haiyu , Kurogi Eriko , Goto Katsumasa , Hayashi Tatsuya
Published: April 2024

Background

Glycative stress, characterized by the formation and accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) associated with protein glycation reactions, has been implicated in inducing a decline of muscle function. Although the inverse correlation between glycative stress and muscle mass and strength has been demonstrated, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aimed to elucidate how glycative stress affects the skeletal muscle, particularly the adaptive muscle response to hypertrophic stimuli and its molecular mechanism.

Methods

Male C57BL/6NCr mice were randomly divided into the following two groups: the bovine serum albumin (BSA)‐treated and AGE‐treated groups. Mice in the AGE‐treated group were intraperitoneally administered AGEs (0.5 mg/g) once daily, whereas those in the BSA‐treated group received an equal amount of BSA (0.5 mg/g) as the vehicle control. After 7 days of continuous administration, the right leg plantaris muscle of mice in each group underwent functional overload treatment by synergist ablation for 7 days to induce muscle hypertrophy. In in vitro studies, cultured C2C12 myocytes were treated with AGEs (1 mg/mL) to examine cell adhesion and cell membrane permeability.

Results

Continuous AGE administration increased the levels of fluorescent AGEs, Nε‐(carboxymethyl) lysine, and methylglyoxal‐derived hydroimidazolone‐1 in both plasma and skeletal muscle. Plantaris muscle weight, muscle fibre cross‐sectional area, protein synthesis rate, and the number of myonuclei increased with functional overload in both groups; however, the increase was significantly reduced by AGE treatment. Some muscles of AGE‐treated mice were destroyed by functional overload. Proteomic analysis was performed to explore the mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy suppression and myofibre destruction by AGEs. When principal component analysis was performed on 4659 data obtained by proteomic analysis, AGE treatment was observed to affect protein expression only in functionally overloaded muscles. Enrichment analysis of the 436 proteins extracted using the K‐means method further identified a group of proteins involved in cell adhesion. Consistent with this finding, dystrophin–glycoprotein complex proteins and cell adhesion‐related proteins were confirmed to increase with functional overload; however, this was attenuated by AGE treatment. Additionally, the treatment of C2C12 muscle cells with AGEs inhibited their ability to adhere and increased cell membrane permeability.

Conclusions

This study indicates that glycative stress may be a novel pathogenic factor in skeletal muscle dysfunctions by causing loss of membrane integrity and preventing muscle mass gain.
Measles outbreak in the adult age group: Clinical, laboratory, and epidemiological features of the 11 patients admitted to the hospital
Authors: Gungor Kultural , Bukavaz Sebnem , Ekuklu Galip
Published: April 2024

The measles virus, also known as the morbillivirus, or MV, is a virus that infects humans. The goal of this research is to assess to adult cases of measles. Eleven patients thought to be confirmed cases of measles were enrolled in the investigation. Following the identification of symptoms of tiredness, fever, and rash in one soldier, the results of 10 more troops from the pertinent military group were assessed. The diagnosis was made based on the presence of serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) and positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results. When the control IgM, immunoglobulin G, and PCR findings were evaluated a fortnight after hospitalization, a cluster of 11 incidents was found. It is now necessary to address the issue of the cautious stance towards vaccination or the anti‐vaccination sentiment that has grown increasingly popular, particularly in light of the COVID‐19 pandemic, for both our nation and the entire world.
Plant growth‐promoting and biocontrol traits of endophytic Bacillus licheniformis against soft rot causing Pythium myriotylum in ginger plant
Authors: Alarjani Khaloud Mohammed , Elshikh Mohamed S.
Published: April 2024

Bacterial endophytes from plants harbor diverse metabolites that play major roles in biocontrol and improve plant growth. In this study, a total of 12 endophytic bacteria were isolated from the ginger rhizome. The strain K3 was highly effective in preventing mycelia growth of Pythium myriotylum (78.5 ± 1.5% inhibition) in dual culture. The cell‐free extract (2.5%) of endophyte K3 inhibited 76.3 ± 4.8% mycelia growth, and 92.4 ± 4.2% inhibition was observed at a 5% sample concentration. The secondary metabolites produced by Bacillus licheniformis K3 showed maximum activity against Pseudomonas syringae (24 ± 1 mm zone of inhibition) and Xanthomonas campestris (28 ± 3 mm zone of inhibition). The strain K3 produced 28.3 ± 1.7 IU mL−1 protease, 28.3 ± 1.7 IU mL−1 cellulase, and 2.04 ± 0.13 IU mL−1 chitinase, respectively. The ginger rhizome treated with K3 in the greenhouse registered 53.8 ± 1.4% soft rot incidence, and the streptomycin‐treated pot registered 78.3 ± 1.7% disease incidence. The selected endophyte K3 improved ascorbate peroxidase (1.37 ± 0.009 µmole ASC min−1 mg−1 protein), catalase (8.7 ± 0.28 µmole min−1 mg−1 protein), and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (26.2 ± 0.99 Umg−1) in the greenhouse. In addition, K3 treatment in the field trial improved rhizome yield (730 ± 18.4 g) after 180 days (p < 0.01). The shoot length was 46 ± 8.3 cm in K3‐treated plants, and it was about 31% higher than the control treatment (p < 0.01). The lytic enzyme‐producing and growth‐promoting endophyte is useful in sustainable crop production through the management of biotic stress.
Antidiarrheal effect of Psidium guajava L. extract in acute diarrhea: a systematic review
Authors: Garrido Gabino , Garrido‐Suárez Bárbara B. , Martínez‐Tapia Nicolás , Valdés‐González Marisela , Ortega‐Mardones Andrea
Published: April 2024

Acute diarrheal diseases are a leading cause of childhood mortality and morbidity worldwide. Psidium guajava has been globally used for its antidiarrheal potential. We conducted a systematic review of scientific articles published up to the year 2021, which included in vivo pre‐clinical tests and clinical trials involving patients with acute infectious diarrhea to verify the antidiarrheal, antibacterial and antispasmodic effects of galenic preparations or phytopharmaceuticals from P. guajava. PRISMA and Rayyan were used as tools for the selection of studies collected in four databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and Science Direct). The keywords used to carry out the search were: ‘Psidium guajava’, ‘guava’, ‘antidiarrhe*’ and ‘diarrhe*’, joined by Boolean operators ‘OR’ or ‘AND’. The characteristics of studies in animal models of acute diarrhea induction, as well as in vivo and in vitro motility and microbiological tests linked with its main pathophysiological mechanisms, were collected. Twenty‐three articles were included. Twenty (87%) of these reported heterogenic preclinical studies, predominating pharmacological studies of efficacy against conventional antidiarrheal agents, which utilized relevant outcomes and models of infectious diarrhea from the top pathogens in the clinic along with classical castor oil‐induced diarrhea associated with motility tests. Only three articles (13%) corresponded to clinical trials investigating the efficacy, dose and safety of these preparations. Most studies reported positive results and significant mechanistic evidence from antibacterial, anti‐motility, anti‐secretory and protective/anti‐inflammatory perspectives. However, further studies are needed to define the clinical significance and safety treatment with P. guajava extracts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
HHLA2 promotes hepatoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via SPP1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Junqi , Yang Ke , Yang Xin , Jin Tianqiang , Tian Yu , Dai Chaoliu , Xu Feng
Published: April 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as one of the most malignant tumors characterized by poor prognosis and high mortality rates. Emerging evidence underscores the crucial role of the B7 protein family in various cancers, including HCC. However, the involvement of the human endogenous retrovirus H long‐terminal repeat‐associated protein 2 (HHLA2, or B7‐H5) in HCC remains unclear. Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the differential expression of HHLA2 between HCC and normal liver tissues. A battery of assays, including CCK8, EdU, tablet clone‐forming, Transwell, and wound healing assays, were conducted to elucidate the function and potential mechanisms of HHLA2 in the malignant biological behaviors of HCC. Additionally, a xenograft mouse model was established to evaluate the tumorigenicity of hepatoma cell lines exhibiting different HHLA2 expression levels in vivo. Western blot analysis was used to analyze HHLA2, secretory phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), and PI3K/AKT/mTOR levels. HHLA2 exhibited elevated expression in HCC tissues, correlating with poor tumor differentiation and shortened overall survival in HCC patients. In vitro experiments demonstrated that HHLA2 overexpression (OE) promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of hepatoma cells, while in vivo experiments revealed that HHLA2 OE enhanced HCC tumor growth. Conversely, inhibition of HHLA2 expression yielded the opposite effect. Downregulation of SPP1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion induced by HHLA2 OE, and this effect was linked to the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that HHLA2 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of hepatoma cells via the SPP1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, establishing it as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Financial efficiency of healthcare companies in an emerging market
Authors: Cinaroglu Songul , Pirgaip Burak
Published: April 2024

Understanding the financial dynamics of healthcare companies is essential for reducing costs while improving access to care and patient outcomes. This study aims to explore the financial efficiency of healthcare companies operating in an emerging stock market. We use conventional and fuzzy data envelopment analysis. We consider liquidity and leverage ratios as input criteria and profitability ratios as output criteria, each taken from Borsa Istanbul for the year 2022. The results indicate that financially inefficient healthcare companies can increase their efficiency by effectively managing debt and working capital, restructuring their asset base, and focusing on equity management.
Phase distribution graphs for fast, differentiable, and spatially encoded Bloch simulations of arbitrary MRI sequences
Authors: Endres Jonathan , Weinmüller Simon , Dang Hoai Nam , Zaiss Moritz
Published: April 2024

Purpose

An analytical approach to Bloch simulations for MRI sequences is introduced that enables time efficient calculations of signals free of Monte‐Carlo noise, while providing full flexibility and differentiability in RF flip angles, RF phases, magnetic field gradients and time, as well as insights into image formation.

Theory and Methods

We present an implementation of the extended phase graph (EPG) concept implemented in PyTorch, including an efficient state selection algorithm. This simulation is compared with an isochromat‐based Bloch simulation with random isochromat distribution as well as with in vivo measurements using the Pulseq standard. Additionally, different sequences are tested and analyzed using this novel simulation approach.

Results

Our simulation outperforms isochromat‐based simulations in terms of computation time as well as signal quality, without exhibiting any kind of Monte‐Carlo noise. The novel approach allows extracting useful information about the magnetization evolution not available otherwise. Our approach extends the common state‐tensor‐based EPG simulation approach for the contribution of dephased states including spatial encoding and effects, and arbitrary timing. This allows calculation of echo shapes in addition to echo amplitudes only. Our implementation provides full differentiability in all input parameters allowing gradient descent optimization. Simulation of non‐instantaneous pulses via hard‐pulse approximation is left for future work, as the performance and accuracy characteristics are not yet analyzed.

Conclusions

Phase distribution graphs provide fast, differentiable, and spatially encoded Bloch simulations for most MRI sequences. It allows efficient simulation and optimization of arbitrary MRI sequences, which was previously only possible via high isochromat counts.
The “hidden noise” problem in MR image reconstruction
Authors: Wang Jiayang , An Di , Haldar Justin P.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The performance of modern image reconstruction methods is commonly judged using quantitative error metrics like root mean squared‐error and the structural similarity index, which are calculated by comparing reconstructed images against fully sampled reference data. In practice, the reference data will contain noise and is not a true gold standard. In this work, we demonstrate that the “hidden noise” present in reference data can substantially confound standard approaches for ranking different image reconstruction results.

Methods

Using both experimental and simulated k‐space data and several different image reconstruction techniques, we examined whether there was correlation between performance metrics obtained with typical noisy reference data versus those obtained with higher‐quality reference data.

Results

For conventional performance metrics, the reconstructions that matched best with the higher‐quality reference data were substantially different from the reconstructions that matched best with typical noisy reference data. This leads to suboptimal reconstruction results if the performance with respect to noisy reference data is used to select which reconstruction methods/parameters to employ. These issues were reduced when employing alternative error metrics that better account for noise.

Conclusion

Reference data containing hidden noise can substantially mislead the ranking of image reconstruction methods when using conventional error metrics, but this issue can be mitigated with alternative error metrics.
Preparation of PBI membranes with controlled thickness for use in PEMFCs and the impact on water and phosphoric acid uptake
Authors: Galvão Douglas Felipe , Ellakkis Samah , Becker Márcia Regina
Published: April 2024

Protonated poly (2,2′‐m‐phenylene‐5,5′‐bibenzimidazole) (PBI) membranes are good electrolytes for proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) as they can be operated at high temperatures, thus favoring catalysis reaction kinetics, CO elimination, and water management. Electrolyte production from polymeric membranes with controlled thickness is important for the study of their properties and their use in fuel cells (FCs). When preparing PBI membranes by casting with controlled thickness, polymer solubility in different solvents was assessed as well as the relation between petri dish diameter and solution concentration. Membranes with different thicknesses were phosphonated and had their phosphoric acid (PA) and water uptake measured. A systematic procedure was established to prepare membranes with predetermined thickness using 12 mL of 5–8% PBI in N,N‐dimethylacetamide in petri dishes measuring 5–9 cm. Membranes with predicted thickness of 60 ± 20 μm and 200 ± 40 μm showed a maximum water uptake of 8.34 ± 0.01% and PA uptake of 32 ± 1% and 18 ± 2%, respectively. This study contributed significantly to systematize procedures for producing high‐quality membranes with predefined thickness and to understand the influence of their thickness on their degree of phosphonation.