bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vapor-induced phase-separation-enabled versatile direct ink writing
Authors: Sole-Gras Marc , Ren Bing , Ryder Benjamin J. , Ge Jinqun , Huang Jinge , Chai Wenxuan , Yin Jun , Fuchs Gerhard E. , Wang Guoan , Jiang Xiuping , Huang Yong
Published: April 2024

Versatile printing of polymers, metals, and composites always calls for simple, economic approaches. Here we present an approach to three-dimensional (3D) printing of polymeric, metallic, and composite materials at room conditions, based on the polymeric vapor-induced phase separation (VIPS) process. During VIPS 3D printing (VIPS-3DP), a dissolved polymer-based ink is deposited in an environment where nebulized non-solvent is present, inducing the low-volatility solvent to be extracted from the filament in a controllable manner due to its higher chemical affinity with the non-solvent used. The polymeric phase is hardened in situ as a result of the induced phase separation process. The low volatility of the solvent enables its reclamation after the printing process, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. We first demonstrate the use of VIPS-3DP for polymer printing, showcasing its potential in printing intricate structures. We further extend VIPS-3DP to the deposition of polymer-based metallic inks or composite powder-laden polymeric inks, which become metallic parts or composites after a thermal cycle is applied. Furthermore, spatially tunable porous structures and functionally graded parts are printed by using the printing path to set the inter-filament porosity as well as an inorganic space-holder as an intra-filament porogen.
Elevated α-synuclein levels inhibit mitophagic flux
Authors: Kinnart Inge , Manders Liselot , Heyninck Thibaut , Imberechts Dorien , Praschberger Roman , Schoovaerts Nils , Verfaillie Catherine , Verstreken Patrik , Vandenberghe Wim
Published: April 2024

The pathogenic effect of SNCA gene multiplications indicates that elevation of wild-type α-synuclein levels is sufficient to cause Parkinson’s disease (PD). Mitochondria have been proposed to be a major target of α-synuclein-induced damage. PINK1/parkin/DJ-1-mediated mitophagy is a defense strategy that allows cells to selectively eliminate severely damaged mitochondria. Here, we quantified mitophagic flux and non-mitochondrial autophagic flux in three models of increased α-synuclein expression: 1/Drosophila melanogaster that transgenically express human wild-type and mutant α-synuclein in flight muscle; 2/human skin fibroblasts transfected with α-synuclein or β-synuclein; and 3/human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons carrying an extra copy of wild-type SNCA under control of a doxycycline-inducible promoter, allowing titratable α-synuclein upregulation. In each model, elevated α-synuclein levels potently suppressed mitophagic flux, while non-mitochondrial autophagy was preserved. In human neurons, a twofold increase in wild-type α-synuclein was already sufficient to induce this effect. PINK1 and parkin activation and mitochondrial translocation of DJ-1 after mitochondrial depolarization were not affected by α-synuclein upregulation. Overexpression of the actin-severing protein cofilin or treatment with CK666, an inhibitor of the actin-related protein 2/3 (Arp2/3) complex, rescued mitophagy in neurons with increased α-synuclein, suggesting that excessive actin network stabilization mediated the mitophagy defect. In conclusion, elevated α-synuclein levels inhibit mitophagic flux. Disruption of actin dynamics may play a key role in this effect.
Data-driven modeling of core gene regulatory network underlying leukemogenesis in IDH mutant AML
Authors: Katebi Ataur , Chen Xiaowen , Ramirez Daniel , Li Sheng , Lu Mingyang
Published: April 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of poorly differentiated myeloid cells, with a heterogenous mutational landscape. Mutations in IDH1 and IDH2 are found in 20% of the AML cases. Although much effort has been made to identify genes associated with leukemogenesis, the regulatory mechanism of AML state transition is still not fully understood. To alleviate this issue, here we develop a new computational approach that integrates genomic data from diverse sources, including gene expression and ATAC-seq datasets, curated gene regulatory interaction databases, and mathematical modeling to establish models of context-specific core gene regulatory networks (GRNs) for a mechanistic understanding of tumorigenesis of AML with IDH mutations. The approach adopts a new optimization procedure to identify the top network according to its accuracy in capturing gene expression states and its flexibility to allow sufficient control of state transitions. From GRN modeling, we identify key regulators associated with the function of IDH mutations, such as DNA methyltransferase DNMT1, and network destabilizers, such as E2F1. The constructed core regulatory network and outcomes of in-silico network perturbations are supported by survival data from AML patients. We expect that the combined bioinformatics and systems-biology modeling approach will be generally applicable to elucidate the gene regulation of disease progression.
Standardised Versioning of Datasets: a FAIR–compliant Proposal
Authors: González–Cebrián Alba , Bradford Michael , Chis Adriana E. , González–Vélez Horacio
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a standardised dataset versioning framework for improved reusability, recognition and data version tracking, facilitating comparisons and informed decision-making for data usability and workflow integration. The framework adopts a software engineering-like data versioning nomenclature (“major.minor.patch”) and incorporates data schema principles to promote reproducibility and collaboration. To quantify changes in statistical properties over time, the concept ofdata drift metrics(d) is introduced. Three metrics (dP,dE,PCA, anddE,AE) based on unsupervised Machine Learning techniques (Principal Component Analysis and Autoencoders) are evaluated for dataset creation, update, and deletion. The optimal choice is thedE,PCAmetric, combining PCA models with splines. It exhibits efficient computational time, with values below 50 for new dataset batches and values consistent with seasonal or trend variations. Major updates (i.e., values of 100) occur when scaling transformations are applied to over 30% of variables while efficiently handling information loss, yielding values close to 0. This metric achieved a favourable trade-off between interpretability, robustness against information loss, and computation time.
Identification of small molecules affecting the interaction between human hemoglobin and Staphylococcus aureus IsdB hemophore
Authors: Cozzi Monica , Failla Mariacristina , Gianquinto Eleonora , Kovachka Sandra , Buoli Comani Valeria , Compari Carlotta , De Bei Omar , Giaccari Roberta , Marchesani Francesco , Marchetti Marialaura , Ronda Luca , Rolando Barbara , Baroni Massimo , Cruciani Gabriele , Campanini Barbara , Bettati Stefano , Faggiano Serena , Lazzarato Loretta , Spyrakis Francesca
Published: April 2024

Human hemoglobin (Hb) is the preferred iron source of Staphylococcus aureus. This pathogenic bacterium exploits a sophisticated protein machinery called Iron-regulated surface determinant (Isd) system to bind Hb, extract and internalize heme, and finally degrade it to complete iron acquisition. IsdB, the surface exposed Hb receptor, is a proven virulence factor of S. aureus and the inhibition of its interaction with Hb can be pursued as a strategy to develop new classes of antimicrobials. To identify small molecules able to disrupt IsdB:Hb protein–protein interactions (PPIs), we carried out a structure-based virtual screening campaign and developed an ad hoc immunoassay to screen the retrieved set of commercially available compounds. Saturation-transfer difference (STD) NMR was applied to verify specific interactions of a sub-set of molecules, chosen based on their efficacy in reducing the amount of Hb bound to IsdB. Among molecules for which direct binding was verified, the best hit was submitted to ITC analysis to measure the binding affinity to Hb, which was found to be in the low micromolar range. The results demonstrate the viability of the proposed in silico/in vitro experimental pipeline to discover and test IsdB:Hb PPI inhibitors. The identified lead compound will be the starting point for future SAR and molecule optimization campaigns.
Research of wet string grid dust removal vehicle and creation of dust control area on tunnel working face
Authors: Deng Huan , Chen Shiqiang , Huang Junxin , Wu Zhirong , Rao Ying , Qiu Xinyi , Cheng Jiujun
Published: April 2024

The spread of blast dust throughout the tunnel becomes a common problem in drill and blast tunneling,the key to breaking through the problem is the creation of a dust control area on the working face.In view of this key problem, a wet string grid dust removal crawler vehicle was developed, the power of the vehicle came from the diesel generator, and further, the air cooler of the diesel generator was used to generate airflow, and the suction process formed by the on-board axial flow fan was coupled to create a dust control area of the working face after blasting.The results show that when the frequency of the axial flow fan is adjusted to 30 Hz, the airflow speed of the wet chord grid section reaches 3.34 m/s, and the dust removal efficiency is the highest, with a value of 94.3%.Compared with the non-use of the dust removal vehicle, when the air outlet of the air cooler is front, horizontal front, horizontal rear, the dust concentration is reduced by 74.37, 92.39 and 50.53%.Finally, the optimized wet grid dust removal crawler was installed in the Dading tunnel, and the actual dust reduction efficiency was about 78.49%. The results obtained provide an important technical way to improve the working environment of the drilling and blasting construction tunnel.
Bubble dynamics and atomization of acoustically levitated diesel and biodiesel droplets using femtosecond laser pulses
Authors: Jagadale Vishal S. , Deshmukh Devendra , Hanstorp Dag , Mishra Yogeshwar Nath
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on the bubble dynamics and associated breakup of individual droplets of diesel and biodiesel under the influence of femtosecond laser pulses. The bubble dynamics were examined by suspending the droplets in the air through an acoustically levitated setup. The laser pulse energies ranged from 25 to 1050 µJ, and droplet diameters varied between 0.25 and 1.5 mm. High-speed shadowgraphy was employed to examine the influence of femtosecond laser intensity and multiple laser pulses on various spatial–temporal parameters. Four distinct sequences of regimes have been identified, depending on early and late times: bubble creation by individual laser pulses, coalescence, bubble rupture and expansion, and droplet fragmentation. At all laser intensities, early-time dynamics showed only bubble generation, while specifically at higher intensities, late-time dynamics revealed droplet breaking. The droplet breakup is further categorized into three mechanisms: steady sheet collapse, unstable sheet breakup, and catastrophic breakup, all following a well-known ligament and secondary breakup process. The study reveals that laser pulses with high repetition rates and moderate laser energy were the optimal choice for precise bubble control and cutting.
Forecasting the ecological footprint of G20 countries in the next 30 years
Authors: Eufrasio Espinosa Rafael M. , Lenny Koh S. C.
Published: April 2024

The Ecological Footprint evaluates the difference between the availability of renewable resources and the extent of human consumption of these resources. Over the past few decades, historical records have shown an accelerated decline in the availability of resources. Based on national footprint and biocapacity accounts, this analysis aims to advance the forecasting of the G20 countries' ecological footprints over a 30-year time frame. We employed a time series forecasting approach implemented in Python, which included-modular regression (Prophet) and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA & Auto-ARIMA) methods. We evaluated and combined the performance of these three methods. The results indicated that among the largest economies of the G20, only four countries are projected to have a positive ecological footprint balance by 2050. These countries share the common denominator of large land areas and a moderate population growth projection. However, the overall trend of the indicator suggests that it will continue to decline.
Parafoveal cone function in choroideremia assessed with adaptive optics optoretinography
Authors: Xu Peiluo , Cooper Robert F. , Jiang Yu You , Morgan Jessica I. W.
Published: April 2024

Choroideremia (CHM) is an X-linked retinal degeneration leading to loss of the photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and choroid. Adaptive optics optoretinography is an emerging technique for noninvasive, objective assessment of photoreceptor function. Here, we investigate parafoveal cone function in CHM using adaptive optics optoretinography and compare with cone structure and clinical assessments of vision. Parafoveal cone mosaics of 10 CHM and four normal-sighted participants were imaged with an adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscope. While acquiring video sequences, a 2 s 550Δ10 nm, 450 nW/deg2 stimulus was presented. Videos were registered and the intensity of each cone in each frame was extracted, normalized, standardized, and aggregated to generate the population optoretinogram (ORG) over time. A gamma-pdf was fit to the ORG and the peak was extracted as ORG amplitude. CHM ORG amplitudes were compared to normal and were correlated with bound cone density, ellipsoid zone to RPE/Bruch’s membrane (EZ-to-RPE/BrM) distance, and foveal sensitivity using Pearson correlation analysis. ORG amplitude was significantly reduced in CHM compared to normal (0.22 ± 0.15 vs. 1.34 ± 0.31). In addition, CHM ORG amplitude was positively correlated with cone density, EZ-to-RPE/BrM distance, and foveal sensitivity. Our results demonstrate promise for using ORG as a biomarker of photoreceptor function.
SNORA69 is up-regulated in the lateral habenula of individuals with major depressive disorder
Authors: Lin Rixing , Mitsuhashi Haruka , Fiori Laura M. , Denniston Ryan , Ibrahim El Cherif , Belzung Catherine , Mechawar Naguib , Turecki Gustavo
Published: April 2024

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex and potentially debilitating illness whose etiology and pathology remains unclear. Non-coding RNAs have been implicated in MDD, where they display differential expression in the brain and the periphery. In this study, we quantified small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) expression by small RNA sequencing in the lateral habenula (LHb) of individuals with MDD (n = 15) and psychiatrically-healthy controls (n = 15). We uncovered five snoRNAs that exhibited differential expression between MDD and controls (FDR < 0.01). Specifically, SNORA69 showed increased expression in MDD and was technically validated via RT-qPCR. We further investigated the expression of Snora69 in the LHb and peripheral blood of an unpredicted chronic mild stress (UCMS) mouse model of depression. Snora69 was specifically up-regulated in mice that underwent the UCMS paradigm. SNORA69 is known to guide pseudouridylation onto 5.8S and 18S rRNAs. We quantified the relative abundance of pseudouridines on 5.8S and 18S rRNA in human post-mortem LHb samples and found increased abundance of pseudouridines in the MDD group. Overall, our findings indicate the importance of brain snoRNAs in the pathology of MDD. Future studies characterizing SNORA69’s role in MDD pathology is warranted.
Dietary restriction reveals sex-specific expression of the mTOR pathway genes in Japanese quails
Authors: Reda Gebrehaweria K. , Ndunguru Sawadi F. , Csernus Brigitta , Knop Renáta , Lugata James K. , Szabó Csaba , Czeglédi Levente , Lendvai Ádám Z.
Published: April 2024

Limited resources affect an organism’s physiology through the conserved metabolic pathway, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Males and females often react differently to nutritional limitation, but whether it leads to differential mTOR pathway expression remains unknown. Recently, we found that dietary restriction (DR) induced significant changes in the expression of mTOR pathway genes in female Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica). We simultaneously exposed 32 male and female Japanese quails to either 20%, 30%, 40% restriction or ad libitum feeding for 14 days and determined the expression of six key genes of the mTOR pathway in the liver to investigate sex differences in the expression patterns. We found that DR significantly reduced body mass, albeit the effect was milder in males compared to females. We observed sex-specific liver gene expression. DR downregulated mTOR expression more in females than in males. Under moderate DR, ATG9A and RPS6K1 expressions were increased more in males than in females. Like females, body mass in males was correlated positively with mTOR and IGF1, but negatively with ATG9A and RS6K1 expressions. Our findings highlight that sexes may cope with nutritional deficits differently and emphasise the importance of considering sexual differences in studies of dietary restriction.
Integrated machine learning for modeling bearing capacity of shallow foundations
Authors: Liu Yuzhen , Liang Yan
Published: April 2024

Analyzing the stability of footings is a significant step in civil/geotechnical engineering projects. In this work, two novel predictive tools are suggested based on an artificial neural network (ANN) to analyze the bearing capacity of a footing installed on a two-layered soil mass. To this end, backtracking search algorithm (BSA) and equilibrium optimizer (EO) are employed to train the ANN for approximating the stability value (SV) of the system. After executing a set of finite element analyses, the settlement values lower/higher than 5 cm are considered to indicate the stability/failure of the system. The results demonstrated the efficiency of these algorithms in fulfilling the assigned task. In detail, the training error of the ANN (in terms of root mean square error—RMSE)) dropped from 0.3585 to 0.3165 (11.72%) and 0.2959 (17.46%) by applying the BSA and EO, respectively. Moreover, the prediction accuracy of the ANN climbed from 93.7 to 94.3% and 94.1% (in terms of area under the receiving operating characteristics curve—AUROC). A comparison between the elite complexities of these algorithms showed that the EO enjoys a larger accuracy, while BSA is a more time-effective optimizer. Lastly, an explicit mathematical formula is derived from the EO-ANN model to be conveniently used in predicting the SV.
Translational research of boron neutron capture therapy for spinal cord gliomas using rat model
Authors: Kayama Ryo , Tsujino Kohei , Kawabata Shinji , Fujikawa Yoshiki , Kashiwagi Hideki , Fukuo Yusuke , Hiramatsu Ryo , Takata Takashi , Tanaka Hiroki , Suzuki Minoru , Hu Naonori , Miyatake Shin-Ichi , Takami Toshihiro , Wanibuchi Masahiko
Published: April 2024

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a type of targeted particle radiation therapy with potential applications at the cellular level. Spinal cord gliomas (SCGs) present a substantial challenge owing to their poor prognosis and the lack of effective postoperative treatments. This study evaluated the efficacy of BNCT in a rat SCGs model employing the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scale to assess postoperative locomotor activity. We confirmed the presence of adequate in vitro boron concentrations in F98 rat glioma and 9L rat gliosarcoma cells exposed to boronophenylalanine (BPA) and in vivo tumor boron concentration 2.5 h after intravenous BPA administration. In vivo neutron irradiation significantly enhanced survival in the BNCT group when compared with that in the untreated group, with a minimal BBB scale reduction in all sham-operated groups. These findings highlight the potential of BNCT as a promising treatment option for SCGs.
Bacterial biota associated with the invasive insect pest Tuta absoluta (Meyrick)
Authors: Lateef A. A. , Azeez A. A. , Ren W. , Hamisu H. S. , Oke O. A. , Asiegbu F. O.
Published: April 2024

Tuta absoluta (the tomato pinworm) is an invasive insect pest with a highly damaging effect on tomatoes causing between 80 and 100% yield losses if left uncontrolled. Resistance to chemical pesticides have been reported in some T. absoluta populations. Insect microbiome plays an important role in the behavior, physiology, and survivability of their host. In a bid to explore and develop an alternative control method, the associated microbiome of this insect was studied. In this study, we unraveled the bacterial biota of T. absoluta larvae and adults by sequencing and analyzing the 16S rRNA V3-V4 gene regions using Illumina NovaSeq PE250. Out of 2,092,015 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) recovered from 30 samples (15 larvae and 15 adults), 1,268,810 and 823,205 ASVs were obtained from the larvae and adults, respectively. A total of 433 bacterial genera were shared between the adults and larval samples while 264 and 139 genera were unique to the larvae and adults, respectively. Amplicon metagenomic analyses of the sequences showed the dominance of the phylum Proteobacteria in the adult samples while Firmicutes and Proteobacteria dominated in the larval samples. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) comparison revealed the genera Pseudomonas, Delftia and Ralstonia to be differentially enriched in the adult samples while Enterococcus, Enterobacter, Lactococcus, Klebsiella and Wiessella were differentially abundant in the larvae. The diversity indices showed that the bacterial communities were not different between the insect samples collected from different geographical regions. However, the bacterial communities significantly differed based on the sample type between larvae and adults. A co-occurrence network of significantly correlated taxa revealed a strong interaction between the microbial communities. The functional analysis of the microbiome using FAPROTAX showed that denitrification, arsenite oxidation, methylotrophy and methanotrophy as the active functional groups of the adult and larvae microbiomes. Our results have revealed the core taxonomic, functional, and interacting microbiota of T. absoluta and these indicate that the larvae and adults harbor a similar but transitory set of bacteria. The results provide a novel insight and a basis for exploring microbiome-based biocontrol strategy for this invasive insect pest as well as the ecological significance of some of the identified microbiota is discussed.
A new dynamic nomogram for predicting the risk of severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children
Authors: Zhang Xue , Sun Ruiyang , Jia Wanyu , Li Peng , Song Chunlan
Published: April 2024

Mycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia (MPP) is usually mild and self-limiting, but still about 12% of them will progress to severeMycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia (SMPP), which have poor survival rates and often require intensive medical resource utilization. We retrospectively collected clinical data from 526 children with MPP admitted to the Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University from June 2018 to February 2023 and randomly divided the data into a training cohort and a validation cohort at a ratio of 4:1. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify independent risk factors for SMPP. Age, AGR, NLR, CRP, ESR, MPV, coinfection, pleural effusion, primary disease, fever days ≥ 7 and wheeze are independent risk factors for SMPP in children. Then, we built an online dynamic nomogram (https://ertongyiyuanliexiantu.shinyapps.io/SMPP/) based on the 11 independent risk factors. The C-index, ROC curve, DCA curve and calibration curve were used to assess the performance of the nomogram, which all showed that the dynamic nomogram has excellent clinical value. Based on age, AGR, NLR, CRP, ESR, MPV, coinfection, pleural effusion, primary disease, fever days ≥ 7 and wheeze, the first dynamic nomogram for accurately predicting SMPP was successfully established.
Dynamic Bayesian network structure learning based on an improved bacterial foraging optimization algorithm
Authors: Meng Guanglei , Cong Zelin , Li Tingting , Wang Chenguang , Zhou Mingzhe , Wang Biao
Published: April 2024

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and data science, Dynamic Bayesian Network (DBN), as an effective probabilistic graphical model, has been widely used in many engineering fields. And swarm intelligence algorithm is an optimization algorithm based on natural selection with the characteristics of distributed, self-organization and robustness. By applying the high-performance swarm intelligence algorithm to DBN structure learning, we can fully utilize the algorithm's global search capability to effectively process time-based data, improve the efficiency of network generation and the accuracy of network structure. This study proposes an improved bacterial foraging optimization algorithm (IBFO-A) to solve the problems of random step size, limited group communication, and the inability to maintain a balance between global and local searching. The IBFO-A algorithm framework comprises four layers. First, population initialization is achieved using a logistics-sine chaotic mapping strategy as the basis for global optimization. Second, the activity strategy of a colony foraging trend is constructed by combining the exploration phase of the Osprey optimization algorithm. Subsequently, the strategy of bacterial colony propagation is improved using a "genetic" approach and the Multi-point crossover operator. Finally, the elimination-dispersal activity strategy is employed to escape the local optimal solution. To solve the problem of complex DBN learning structures due to the introduction of time information, a DBN structure learning method called IBFO-D, which is based on the IBFO-A algorithm framework, is proposed. IBFO-D determines the edge direction of the structure by combining the dynamic K2 scoring function, the designed V-structure orientation rule, and the trend activity strategy. Then, according to the improved reproductive activity strategy, the concept of "survival of the fittest" is applied to the network candidate solution while maintaining species diversity. Finally, the global optimal network structure with the highest score is obtained based on the elimination-dispersal activity strategy. Multiple tests and comparison experiments were conducted on 10 sets of benchmark test functions, two non-temporal and temporal data types, and six data samples of two benchmark 2T-BN networks to evaluate and analyze the optimization performance and structure learning ability of the proposed algorithm under various data types. The experimental results demonstrated that IBFO-A exhibits good convergence, stability, and accuracy, whereas IBFO-D is an effective approach for learning DBN structures from data and has practical value for engineering applications.
Exploring the effects of structure and melting on sweetness in additively manufactured chocolate
Authors: Burkard Johannes , Kohler Lucas , Caciagli Sophia , Herren Nicolas , Kozamernik Mark , Mantovani Saskia , Windhab Erich J. , Denkel Christoph
Published: April 2024

In view of the health concerns associated with high sugar intake, this study investigates methods to enhance sweetness perception in chocolate without increasing its sugar content. Using additive manufacturing, chocolate structures were created from masses with varying sugar and fat compositions, where hazelnut oil served as a partial cocoa butter replacement. The study found that while variations in sugar content minimally affected the physical properties of the chocolate masses, hazelnut oil significantly modified melting behavior and consumption time. Chocolate masses with higher hazelnut oil content but similar sugar content exhibited a 24% increase in sweetness perception, likely due to accelerated tastant (i.e., sucrose) release into saliva. Multiphase structures, designated as layered, cube-in-cube, and sandwich structures, exhibited less sensory differences compared to the homogeneous control. Nonetheless, structures with hazelnut oil-rich outer layers resulted in an 11% increase in sweetness perception, even without sugar gradients. This suggests that tastant release plays a more critical role than structural complexity in modifying sweetness perception. This research highlights the efficacy of simpler multiphase structures, such as sandwich designs, which offer sensory enhancements comparable to those of more complex designs but with reduced manufacturing effort, thus providing viable options for industrial-scale production.
Acoustic imaging of stable double diffusion in the Madeira abyssal plain
Authors: Duarte Ana F. , Peliz Álvaro , Matias Luís , Mendes Renato , Azevedo Leonardo
Published: April 2024

Sub-mesoscale and mesoscale (i.e., 1–10 km and 10–200 km, respectively) ocean processes are highly relevant for the understanding of global circulation, mixing of water masses and energy exchange between ocean layers. However, the processes happening at these scales are hard to be characterized using direct measurements of temperature and salinity. Direct measurements are obtained from vertical probes and/or autonomous vehicles, which, despite their high vertical resolution, are sparsely located in space and therefore unable to capture spatial details at these scales. Seismic oceanography (SO) data have been successfully used to imaging and characterize the ocean at these spatial scales. These data represent indirect measurements of the ocean temperature and salinity along kilometric transects with high horizontal resolution (i.e., a near-synaptic view of the system under investigation), but lower vertical resolution when compared with direct observations. Despite its complex oceanographic setting, the Madeira Abyssal Plain is still largely uncharacterized due to the lack of direct observations. We show for the first time a comprehensive processing, modelling and interpretation of three 2-D seismic oceanography sections from this region. The data show coherent seismic reflection in space, depth and time and shed light into this oceanographic setting with an unprecedent horizontal resolution. The SO modelling and interpretation are combined with existing direct measurements and a quantitative method to correlate thermohaline staircases interpreted from conductivity-temperature-depth casts and seismic reflections is proposed. The results show the relatively stable presence of thermohaline staircases in simultaneously time and space between 1200 and 2000 m of water depth and their spatial variability and contribute to the generalization of SO in physical oceanography.
Exploring the spatial and seasonal heterogeneity of cooling effect of an urban river on a landscape scale
Authors: Zhou Wen , Wu Tao , Tao Xin
Published: April 2024

Urban water bodies can effectively mitigate the urban heat island effect and thus enhance the climate resilience of urban areas. The cooling effect of different water bodies varies, however, the cooling heterogeneity of different sections of a single watercourse or river network is rarely considered. Based on various satellite images, geospatial approaches and statistical analyses, our study confirmed the cooling heterogeneity from spatial and seasonal perspectives of the Suzhou Outer-city River in detail in the urban area of Suzhou, China. The cooling effect of the river was observed in the daytime in four seasons, and it is strongest in summer, followed by spring and autumn, and weakest in winter. The combination of the width of the river reach, the width and the NDVI value of the adjacent green space can explain a significant part of the cooling heterogeneity of the different river sections in different seasons. Land surface temperature (LST) variations along the river are more related to the width of the river reach, but the variations of the cooling distance are more related to the adjacent green space. The cooling effect of a river reach could be enhanced if it is accompanied by green spaces. In addition, the cooling effect of a looping river is stronger on the inside area than on the outside. The methodology and results of this study could help orient scientific landscape strategies in urban planning for cooler cities.
Environmental concerns on the use of the electrospinning technique for the production of polymeric micro/nanofibers
Authors: Malara Angela
Published: April 2024

The production of micro and nanofibers through the electrospinning technique is a well assessed technology that finds application in a variety of fields. Indeed, the specific features of electrospun fibers, as well as the possibility to be modelled and functionalized, ensure their great versatility. In the last decades, the widespread use of electrospun fibers promoted studies related to the evaluation of both human health and environmental risks associated to their handling and exposure. However, to date, the environmental impact strictly related to the use of the manufacturing process has been barely considered. Therefore, the present work aims to assess the environmental impacts of the electrospinning technology used to produce micro and nanofibers. To this purpose, a model polymer was systematically electrospun, varying the main system, process and external parameters, that control the electrospinning technique. A simplified life cycle assessment analysis was finally used to evaluate how the fibrous morphology, closely linked to the choice of the technological parameters, intrinsically affected the environmental impacts.
Mycodegradation of low-density polyethylene by Cladosporium sphaerospermum, isolated from platisphere
Authors: Sathiyabama M. , Boomija R. V. , Sathiyamoorthy T. , Mathivanan N. , Balaji R.
Published: April 2024

Plastic accumulation is a severe threat to the environment due to its resistivity to thermal, mechanical and biological processes. In recent years, microbial degradation of plastic waste disposal is of interest because of its eco-friendly nature. In this study, a total of 33 fungi were isolated from the plastisphere and out of which 28 fungal species showed halo zone of clearance in agarized LDPE media. The fungus showing highest zone of clearance was further used to evaluate its degradation potential. Based on morphological and molecular technique, the fungus was identified as Cladosporium sphaerospermum. The biodegradation of LDPE by C. sphaerospermum was evaluated by various methods. The exposure of LDPE with C. sphaerospermum resulted in weight loss (15.23%) in seven days, higher reduction rate (0.0224/day) and lower half-life (30.93 days). FTIR analysis showed changes in functional group and increased carbonyl index in LDPE treated with C. sphaerospermum. SEMimages evidenced the formation of pits, surface aberrations and grooves on the LDPE film treated with the fungus whereas the untreated control LDPE film showed no change. AFM analysis confirmed the surface changes and roughness in fungus treated LDPE film. This might be due to the extracellular lignolytic enzymes secreted by C. sphaerospermum grown on LDPE. The degradation of polyethylene by Short chain alkanes such as dodecane, hexasiloxane and silane were identified in the extract of fungus incubated with LDPE film through GC–MS analysis which might be due to the degradation of LDPE film by C. sphaerospermum. This was the first report on the LDPE degradation by C. sphaerospermum in very short duration which enables green scavenging of plastic wastes.
Associations between corneal curvature and other anterior segment biometrics in young myopic adults
Authors: Jiang Li , Du Zijing , Sun Wei , Zhu Shanqing , Xiong Lu , Fang Xuejun , Zhou Jin , Zhang Qingsong , Lei Xiaohua , Zeng Qingyan , Wang Zheng , Hu Yijun
Published: April 2024

To investigate the associations between corneal curvature (CC) and other anterior segment biometrics in young myopic adults. In this retrospective multi-center study, 7893 young myopic adults were included. CC and other anterior segment biometrics were measured by Scheimpflug imaging (Pentacam). CC was defined as SimK at central 3 mm area, and other anterior segment biometrics included white-to-white corneal diameter (WTW), central corneal thickness (CCT), corneal volume (CV) at 3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm area, anterior corneal astigmatism (ACA), posterior corneal astigmatism (PCA), anterior corneal eccentricity (ACE) and asphericity (ACAP), posterior corneal eccentricity (PCE) and asphericity (PCAP), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and anterior chamber volume (ACV). Univariate regression analyses were used to assess the associations between CC and other anterior segment biometrics, and multivariate regression analyses were further performed to adjusted for age, gender and spherical equivalent. CC was higher in patients of female gender and higher myopia (all P < 0.05). Eyes in higher CC quartiles had lower WTW, thinner CCT, lower CV at 3 mm and 5 mm, lower ACD, and lower ACV (all P < 0.001), but had larger ACA, larger PCA, less PCE and less PCAP (all P < 0.001), compared to eyes in lower CC quartiles. The trends of CV at 7 mm, ACE and ACAP were inconsistent in different CC quartiles. After adjusting for age, gender and spherical equivalent with multivariate linear regression, CC was positively correlated to CV at 7 mm (βs = 0.069), ACA (βs = 0.194), PCA (βs = 0.187), ACE (βs = 0.072), PCAP (βs = 0.087), and ACD (βs = 0.027) (all P < 0.05), but was negatively correlated to WTW (βs = − 0.432), CCT (βs = − 0.087), CV-3 mm (βs = − 0.066), ACAP (βs = − 0.043), PCE (βs = − 0.062), and ACV (βs = − 0.188) (all P < 0.05). CC was associated with most of the other anterior segment biometrics in young myopic adults. These associations are important for better understanding of the interactions between different anterior segment structures in young myopic patients, and are also useful for the exploration of the pathogenesis of myopia.
The fate of leaked heavy metals in the urban environment under different persistence and precipitation scenarios
Authors: Ghasemi Mehrdad , Feyzi Kamareh Touran , Morovati Maryam , Kazembeigi Farogh , Alinejad Navid , Moein Hossein , Hassani Ghasem
Published: April 2024

The use of tobacco will lead to the littering of a large number of filters, and the leakage of pollutants from them into the urban environment is a serious concern. The aim of this study was to analyze the leakage of heavy metals from filter and estimate the annual concentration of pollution leakage in different waste routes and different climatic conditions. The results showed that the highest and lowest density of filter in the studied urban environment were 0.51 and 0.01 number/m2, respectively. According to the estimated annual production of 306 million cigarette butts in the studied area, the leakage of the studied metals was estimated to be 401 g. The share of copper, chromium, and cadmium from the total leakage was 67%, 8.3%, and 1.88%, respectively. The leakage of studied metals in rainy conditions was 2.86 times more than sunny conditions. In different scenarios, the minimum and maximum annual leakage of metals were estimated 23,043 and 350,419 mg/year, respectively. Filters are a little but important source of heavy metal emission into the urban environment, the amount of pollution from which is affected by the consumers’ behavior and the efficiency of the urban cleaning system. Education on the correct disposal of filters and increasing the efficiency of the urban cleaning system will lead to a reduction in pollution caused by tobacco consumption.
Activation of lateral preoptic neurons is associated with nest-building in male mice
Authors: Tagawa Natsuki , Mori Keita , Koebis Michinori , Aiba Atsu , Iino Yuichi , Tsuneoka Yousuke , Funato Hiromasa
Published: April 2024

Nest-building behavior is a widely observed innate behavior. A nest provides animals with a secure environment for parenting, sleep, feeding, reproduction, and temperature maintenance. Since animal infants spend their time in a nest, nest-building behavior has been generally studied as parental behaviors, and the medial preoptic area (MPOA) neurons are known to be involved in parental nest-building. However, nest-building of singly housed male mice has been less examined. Here we show that male mice spent longer time in nest-building at the early to middle dark phase and at the end of the dark phase. These two periods are followed by sleep-rich periods. When a nest was removed and fresh nest material was introduced, both male and female mice built nests at Zeitgeber time (ZT) 6, but not at ZT12. Using Fos-immunostaining combined with double in situ hybridization of Vgat and Vglut2, we found that Vgat- and Vglut2-positive cells of the lateral preoptic area (LPOA) were the only hypothalamic neuron population that exhibited a greater number of activated cells in response to fresh nest material at ZT6, compared to being naturally awake at ZT12. Fos-positive LPOA neurons were negative for estrogen receptor 1 (Esr1). Both Vgat-positive and Vglut2-positive neurons in both the LPOA and MPOA were activated at pup retrieval by male mice. Our findings suggest the possibility that GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons in the LPOA are associated with nest-building behavior in male mice.
Social preferences and psychopathy in a sample of male prisoners—a pilot study
Authors: Kuper-Smith Benjamin J. , Voulgaris Alexander , Briken Peer , Fuss Johannes , Korn Christoph W.
Published: April 2024

Social decisions are influenced by a person’s social preferences. High psychopathy is defined by antisocial behaviour, but the relationship between psychopathy and social preferences remains unclear. In this study, we used a battery of economic games to study social decision-making and social preferences in relation to psychopathy in a sample of 35 male prison inmates, who were arrested for sexual and severe violent offenses (mean age = 39 years). We found no evidence for a relationship between social preferences (measured with the Dictator and Ultimatum Games, Social Value Orientation, and one-shot 2 × 2 games) and psychopathy (measured by the overall Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised score and both factors). These results are surprising but also difficult to interpret due to the small sample size. Our results contribute to the ongoing debate about psychopathy and social decision-making by providing crucial data that can be combined with future datasets to reach large sample sizes that can provide a more nuanced understanding about the relationship between psychopathy and social preferences.
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes inhibits fibrosis in human endometrial stromal cells via miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis
Authors: Song Mengling , Ma Lijun , Zhu Yongzhao , Gao Huimin , Hu Rong
Published: April 2024

Endometrial fibrosis is the histologic appearance of intrauterine adhesion (IUA). Emerging evidences demonstrated umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exo) could alleviate endometrial fibrosis. But the specific mechanism is not clear. In this study, we explored the effect of UCMSC-exo on endometrial fibrosis, and investigated the possible role of miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis in anti-fibrotic properties of UCMSC-exo. UCMSC-exo were isolated and identified. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) was used to induce human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) fibrosis. Dual luciferase assay was performed to verify the relationship between miR-140-3p and FOXP1. The expressions of fibrotic markers, SIP1, and p-Smad2/p-Smad3 in HESCs stimulated with UCMSC-exo were detected by western blot. In addition, the effects of miR-140-3p mimic, miR-140-3p inhibitor and FOXP1 over-expression on endometrial fibrosis were assessed. The isolated UCMSC-exo had a typical cup-shaped morphology and could be internalized into HESCs. The expressions of fibrotic markers were significantly increased by TGF-β, which was reversed by UCMSC-exo. MiR-140-3p in UCMSC-exo ameliorated TGf-β-induced HESCs fibrosis. FOXP1 was identified as the direct target of miR-140-3p, which could inversely regulate miR-140-3p’s function on HESCs fibrosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR-140-3p in UCMSC-exo regulated Smad signal pathway to exert the anti-fibrotic effect in HESCs. The anti-fibrotic effect of UCMSC-derived exosomes against HESC fibrosis was at least partially achieved by miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis.
Comparison between accuracy of augmented reality computed tomography-based and portable augmented reality-based navigation systems for cup insertion in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Hasegawa Masahiro , Naito Yohei , Tone Shine , Sudo Akihiro
Published: April 2024

Augmented reality (AR) has been used for navigation during total hip arthroplasty (THA). AR computed tomography (CT)-based navigation systems and AR-based portable navigation systems that use smartphones can also be used. This study compared the accuracy of cup insertion during THA using AR-CT-based and portable AR-based navigation systems. Patients with symptomatic hip disease who underwent primary THA in the supine position using both AR CT-based and portable AR-based navigation systems simultaneously between October 2021 and July 2023 were included. The primary outcome of this study was the absolute difference between cup angles in the intraoperative navigation record and those measured on postoperative CT. The secondary outcome was to determine the factors affecting the absolute value of the navigation error in radiographic inclination (RI) and radiographic anteversion (RA) of the cup, including sex, age, body mass index, left or right side, approach, and preoperative pelvic tilt. This study included 94 consecutive patients. There were 11 men and 83 women, with a mean age of 68 years. The mean absolute errors of RI were 2.7° ± 2.0° in the AR CT-based and 3.3° ± 2.4° in the portable AR-based navigation system. The mean absolute errors of RA were 2.5° ± 2.1° in the AR CT-based navigation system and 2.3° ± 2.2° in the portable AR-based navigation system. No significant differences were observed in RI or RA of the cup between the two navigation systems (RI: p = 0.706; RA: p = 0.329). No significant factors affected the absolute value of the navigation errors in RI and RA. In conclusion, there were no differences in the accuracy of cup insertion between the AR CT-based and portable AR-based navigation systems.
Nanoscale precision brings experimental metalens efficiencies on par with theoretical promises
Authors: Egede Johansen Villads , Gür Uǧur Meriç , Martínez-Llinás Jade , Fly Hansen Jesper , Samadi Akbar , Skak Vestergaard Larsen Maria , Nielsen Theodor , Mattinson Fredrik , Schmidlin Moritz , Mortensen N. Asger , Quaade Ulrich J.
Published: April 2024

Metalenses are flat lenses, where sub-wavelength, so-called meta-atoms manipulate the electric field to perform a given lens function. Compared to traditional lenses, the two main drawbacks of metalenses are their achromatic limitations and low efficiencies. While an abundance of simulations show that efficiencies above 90% are attainable for low numerical apertures (NA), experimental reports showing such high efficiencies are limited. Here, we use electron-beam lithography (EBL) to realize a set of lenses with varying NA from 0.08 to 0.93. The low NAs were expected to fit the model, and the higher NAs determine the validity range of the model. We find that measured efficiencies above 92% for NA = 0.24 are achievable, and that a slight modification of the simulation model extends its validility to NA = 0.6. Based on our results, we discuss that the lower efficiencies reported in the literature are caused by low-fidelity manufacturing, closing the efficiency gap between measurements and simulation in metalens fabrication.