bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breaking Free From the “War on Drugs”: Examples From Three Leader States
Authors: Davis Corey , Lieberman Amy Judd
Published: July 2024

While the federal government continues to pursue a punitive “War on Drugs,” some states have adopted evidence-based, human-focused approaches to reducing drug-related harm. This article discusses recent legal changes in three states that can serve as models for others interested in reducing, rather than increasing, individual and community harm.
Using Topic Modeling to Research Student Diversity in Higher Education
Authors: Voltmer Jan-Bennet , Fisseler Björn , Raimann Jennifer , Stürmer Stefan
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Groups in computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) are characterized by diversity regarding several sociodemographic and task-related features (e.g., students differ with respect to their first language and their prior experience with online learning simultaneously). Understanding the effect of this multiattributional diversity on CSCL groups is necessary to inform the design of interventions aimed at managing CSCL group diversity. We used topic modeling to investigate how multiattributional diversity affects discussion topics and subsequent group performance. Twenty topics were derived by Latent Dirichlet Allocation and assigned to 17,720 forum posts by 342 groups of psychology freshmen. Multiattributional sociodemographic diversity was negatively related to the number of posts in two topics concerned with time management and feedback mechanisms in groups where multiattributional task-related diversity was also high. These topics were positively related to subsequent group performance ratings. Findings suggest that this combination of diversity presents a risk for group communication, potentially negatively impacting performance.
Mechanically Consistent Model of the 2018 Christmas Volcano‐Tectonic Event at Etna
Authors: Iozzia A. , Currenti G. , Cayol V. , Bonforte A. , Cannata A. , Froger J. L.
Published: July 2024

The interaction between volcanic activity and flank instability during the Christmas Eve eruption at Mount Etna in 2018 is explored, using a mechanically consistent inverse model fitting high spatial resolution SAR data. Inversions search for fractures that may be curved and can accommodate co‐eval pressure and shear stress changes. Displacements associated with the eruption result from the interaction between two intrusion sources: a buried dyke and a curved sheared intrusion that fed the eruption. Moreover, we identify that the sheared magmatic intrusion induced the observed eastward slip on the Pernicana fault, while the Fiandaca fault was undergoing stress accumulation, which was suddenly released during a M5.0 seismic event. The Fiandaca fault is determined to be listric, rooting beneath the mobile eastern flank of the volcano. This study highlights the role of curved fractures, acting as sheared intrusions or as faults, in volcanoes exhibiting flank instabilities.
Mosquitoes Without Borders
Authors: Derouin Sarah
Published: July 2024

Using regional systems based on ecology, not geopolitical boundaries, can give scientists a better picture of the potential spread of West Nile virus.
Improved Temperature‐Dependent Ice Refractive Index Compilation in the Far‐Infrared Spectrum
Authors: Wang Siheng , Ren Tong , Yang Ping , Saito Masanori , Brindley Helen E.
Published: July 2024

A new ice refractive index compilation is reported for a broad spectrum ranging from 0.0443 to 106 μm, focusing on the pronounced temperature‐dependence of ice optical properties in the far‐infrared (far‐IR) segment (15–100 μm). A sensitivity study assuming spherical particles shows that selecting ice refractive indices at 12 temperatures and 215 wavelengths in the far‐IR region gives sufficient accuracy in interpolated refractive indices for developing a new ice crystal optical property database. Furthermore, we demonstrate the differences between the bulk single‐scattering properties computed for hexagonal ice particles with this new compilation compared to a previous iteration at three far‐IR wavelengths where substantial differences are noticed between the two ice refractive index compilations. We suggest that our new ice refractive index data set will improve downstream light‐scattering applications for upcoming far‐IR satellite missions and allow robust modeling of outgoing longwave radiation under ice cloud conditions.
Altered RNA export by SF3B1 mutants confers sensitivity to nuclear export inhibition
Authors: Chaudhry Sana , Beckedorff Felipe , Jasdanwala Shaista Shabbir , Totiger Tulasigeri M. , Affer Maurizio , Lawal Abimbola Eunice , Montoya Skye , Tamiro Francesco , Tonini Olivia , Chirino Alexandra , Adams Andrew , Sondhi Anya K. , Noudali Stephen , Cornista Alyssa Mauri , Nicholls Miah , Afaghani Jumana , Robayo Paola , Bilbao Daniel , Nimer Stephen D. , Rodríguez Jose Antonio , Bhatt Shruti , Wang Eric , Taylor Justin
Published: July 2024

SF3B1 mutations frequently occur in cancer yet lack targeted therapies. Clinical trials of XPO1 inhibitors, selinexor and eltanexor, in high-risk myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) revealed responders were enriched with SF3B1 mutations. Given that XPO1 (Exportin-1) is a nuclear exporter responsible for the export of proteins and multiple RNA species, this led to the hypothesis that SF3B1-mutant cells are sensitive to XPO1 inhibition, potentially due to altered splicing. Subsequent RNA sequencing after XPO1 inhibition in SF3B1 wildtype and mutant cells showed increased nuclear retention of RNA transcripts and increased alternative splicing in the SF3B1 mutant cells particularly of genes that impact apoptotic pathways. To identify novel drug combinations that synergize with XPO1 inhibition, a forward genetic screen was performed with eltanexor treatment implicating anti-apoptotic targets BCL2 and BCLXL, which were validated by functional testing in vitro and in vivo. These targets were tested in vivo using Sf3b1K700E conditional knock-in mice, which showed that the combination of eltanexor and venetoclax (BCL2 inhibitor) had a preferential sensitivity for SF3B1 mutant cells without excessive toxicity. In this study, we unveil the mechanisms underlying sensitization to XPO1 inhibition in SF3B1-mutant MDS and preclinically rationalize the combination of eltanexor and venetoclax for high-risk MDS.
Synergistic induction of mitotic pyroptosis and tumor remission by inhibiting proteasome and WEE family kinases
Authors: Chen Zhan-Li , Xie Chen , Zeng Wei , Huang Rui-Qi , Yang Jin-E , Liu Jin-Yu , Chen Ya-Jing , Zhuang Shi-Mei
Published: July 2024

Mitotic catastrophe (MC), which occurs under dysregulated mitosis, represents a fascinating tactic to specifically eradicate tumor cells. Whether pyroptosis can be a death form of MC remains unknown. Proteasome-mediated protein degradation is crucial for M-phase. Bortezomib (BTZ), which inhibits the 20S catalytic particle of proteasome, is approved to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma, but not solid tumors due to primary resistance. To date, whether and how proteasome inhibitor affected the fates of cells in M-phase remains unexplored. Here, we show that BTZ treatment, or silencing of PSMC5, a subunit of 19S regulatory particle of proteasome, causes G2- and M-phase arrest, multi-polar spindle formation, and consequent caspase-3/GSDME-mediated pyroptosis in M-phase (designated as mitotic pyroptosis). Further investigations reveal that inhibitor of WEE1/PKMYT1 (PD0166285), but not inhibitor of ATR, CHK1 or CHK2, abrogates the BTZ-induced G2-phase arrest, thus exacerbates the BTZ-induced mitotic arrest and pyroptosis. Combined BTZ and PD0166285 treatment (named BP-Combo) selectively kills various types of solid tumor cells, and significantly lessens the IC50 of both BTZ and PD0166285 compared to BTZ or PD0166285 monotreatment. Studies using various mouse models show that BP-Combo has much stronger inhibition on tumor growth and metastasis than BTZ or PD0166285 monotreatment, and no obvious toxicity is observed in BP-Combo-treated mice. These findings disclose the effect of proteasome inhibitors in inducing pyroptosis in M-phase, characterize pyroptosis as a new death form of mitotic catastrophe, and identify dual inhibition of proteasome and WEE family kinases as a promising anti-cancer strategy to selectively kill solid tumor cells.
PTBP1 protects Y RNA from cleavage leading to its apoptosis-specific degradation
Authors: Kamakura Takeshi , Kameda Kazuaki , Manabe Masahiko , Torii Kan , Sugiura Yuki , Ito Seiko , Nakayama Shunya , Shimizu Takanobu , Nagashima Etsuko , Kamiya Kosuke , Oka Masahiro , Tanaka Masafumi , Otsuka Motoyuki , Ohtsuka Masato , Kotani Ai
Published: July 2024

Some RNAs such as 28S rRNA, U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA), and Y RNAs are known to be cleaved during apoptosis. The underlying mechanism, functions, and biological significance of RNA degradation in apoptosis remain elusive. Y RNAs are non-coding RNAs widely conserved from bacteria to mammals, and are major components of Ro ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes which contain the 60 kDa Ro protein (SS-A) and the 50 kDa La protein (SS-B). The autoantigenic Ro and La proteins were identified by autoantibodies present in the sera from patients with Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS). We previously identified novel, functional small RNAs named AGO-taxis small RNAs (ASRs) that are specifically bound to Argonaute protein 1 (AGO1), which are processed from Y RNAs. Cell-free analysis combined with fractionation methods revealed that the apoptosis-specific biogenesis of ASRs or cleavage of Y RNA was induced by truncation of polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1), which is an endoribonuclease inhibitor of Y RNAs by caspase 3. Caspase 3-resistant PTBP1 mutant protected cleavage of Y RNAs in apoptosis induced by staurosporine. Furthermore, caspase 3-resistant PTBP1 mutant knock-in mice showed elevated cytokines, dysregulation of the germinal center formation compared to the wild-type mice at LPS stimulation, and high positivity of antinuclear antibody. Those results suggest that cleavage of Y RNAs or biogenesis of ASR during apoptosis has critical biological functions and their deregulation result in immune dysregulation and the formation of autoantibody, possibly leading to the development of autoimmune diseases.
Universal hydrogel adhesives with robust chain entanglement for bridging soft electronic materials
Authors: Jo Yejin , Lee Yurim , Heo Jeong Hyun , Son Yeonzu , Kim Tae Young , Park Kijun , Kim Soye , Kim Seo Jung , Jin Yoonhee , Park Seongjun , Seo Jungmok
Published: July 2024

Ensuring stable integration of diverse soft electronic components for reliable operation under dynamic conditions is crucial. However, integrating soft electronics, comprising various materials like polymers, metals, and hydrogels, poses challenges due to their different mechanical and chemical properties. This study introduces a dried-hydrogel adhesive made of poly(vinyl alcohol) and tannic acid multilayers (d-HAPT), which integrates soft electronic materials through moisture-derived chain entanglement. d-HAPT is a thin (~1 µm) and highly transparent (over 85% transmittance in the visible light region) adhesive, showing robust bonding (up to 3.6 MPa) within a short time (<1 min). d-HAPT demonstrates practical application in wearable devices, including a hydrogel touch panel and strain sensors. Additionally, the potential of d-HAPT for use in implantable electronics is demonstrated through in vivo neuromodulation and electrocardiographic recording experiments while confirming its biocompatibility both in vitro and in vivo. It is expected that d-HAPT will provide a reliable platform for integrating soft electronic applications.
Molecular weight insight into critical component contributing to reverse osmosis membrane fouling in wastewater reclamation
Authors: Bai Yuan , Wu Yinhu , Zhang Ziwei , Mao Yu , Wang Ruining , Tong Xin , Xue Song , Wang Haobin , Hu Hongying
Published: July 2024

Molecular weight (MW) of organics was one of the important factors influencing membrane fouling propensity. This study identified critical foulants of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes in reclaimed water by MW fractionation. MW > 10 kDa component was identified as the critical fouling contributor (CFC) in secondary effluent (SE), which accounted for only 13 ± 5% of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) but contributed to 86 ± 11% of flux decline. Throughout 12-month monitoring, SE and MW > 10 kDa component showed a similar fouling variation tendency: apparently higher fouling potential in winter and lower in summer, while MW < 10 kDa component presented minor fouling changes. Morphology of membrane fouled by CFC characterized a smooth and thick foulant layer on membrane surface. CFC was mainly composed of proteins and polysaccharides, and a protein-polysaccharide-protein “sandwich” fouling layer structure was preferentially formed on membrane surface. extended Derjaguin–Landau-Verwey–Overbeek (xDLVO) analysis demonstrated that strong attractive interactions between CFC and membrane surface dominated the fouling process. Furthermore, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation revealed strong filtration resistance of CFC, confirming its significant fouling potential. Dual effects including attractive interactions and advantageous ridge-and-valley surface appearance accounted for the significant fouling propensity of MW > 10 kDa component and glean valuable insights into RO fouling mechanisms of reclaimed water in practical application.
Contributions of core, mantle and climatological processes to Earth’s polar motion
Authors: Kiani Shahvandi Mostafa , Adhikari Surendra , Dumberry Mathieu , Modiri Sadegh , Heinkelmann Robert , Schuh Harald , Mishra Siddhartha , Soja Benedikt
Published: July 2024

Earth’s spin axis slowly moves relative to the crust over time. A 120-year-long record of this polar motion from astronomical and more modern geodetic measurements displays interannual and multidecadal fluctuations of 20 to 40 milliarcseconds superimposed on a secular trend of about 3 milliarcseconds per year. Earth’s polar motion is thought to be driven by various surface and interior processes, but how these processes operate and interact to produce the observed signal remains enigmatic. Here we show that predictions made by an ensemble of physics-informed neural networks trained on measurements to capture geophysical processes can explain the main features of the observed polar motion. We find that glacial isostatic adjustment and mantle convection primarily account for the secular trend. Mass redistribution on the Earth’s surface—for example, ice melting and global changes in water storage—yields a relatively weak trend but explains about 90% of the interannual and multidecadal variations. We also find that core processes contribute to both the secular trend and fluctuations in polar motion, either due to variations in torque at the core–mantle boundary or dynamical feedback of the core in response to surface mass changes. Our findings provide constraints on core–mantle interactions for which observations are rare and global ice mass balance over the past century and suggest feedback operating between climate-related surface processes and core dynamics.
A database of high-pressure crystal structures from hydrogen to lanthanum
Authors: Giannessi Federico , Di Cataldo Simone , Saha Santanu , Boeri Lilia
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces the HEX (High-pressure Elemental Xstals) database, a complete database of the ground-state crystal structures of the first 57 elements of the periodic table, from H to La, at 0, 100, 200 and 300 GPa. HEX aims to provide a unified reference for high-pressure research, by compiling all available experimental information on elements at high pressure, and complementing it with the results of accurate evolutionary crystal structure prediction runs based on Density Functional Theory. Besides offering a much-needed reference, our work also serves as a benchmark of the accuracy of current ab-initio methods for crystal structure prediction. We find that, in 98% of the cases in which experimental information is available, ab-initio crystal structure prediction yields structures which either coincide or are degenerate in enthalpy to within 300 K with experimental ones. The main manuscript contains synthetic tables and figures, while the Crystallographic Information File (cif) for all structures can be downloaded from the related figshare online repository.
Genetic and multi-omic resources for Alzheimer disease and related dementia from the Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center
Authors: Fernandez Maria Victoria , Liu Menghan , Beric Aleksandra , Johnson Matt , Cetin Arda , Patel Maulik , Budde John , Kohlfeld Pat , Bergmann Kristy , Lowery Joseph , Flynn Allison , Brock William , Sanchez Montejo Brenda , Gentsch Jen , Sykora Nicholas , Norton Joanne , Gentsch Jen , Valdez Olga , Gorijala Priyanka , Sanford Jessie , Sun Yichen , Wang Ciyang , Western Dan , Timsina Jigyasha , Mangetti Goncalves Tassia , Do Anh N. , Sung Yun Ju , Zhao Guoyan , Morris John C. , Moulder Krista , Holtzman David M. , Bateman Randall J. , Karch Celeste , Hassenstab Jason , Xiong Chengjie , Schindler Suzanne E. , Balls-Berry Joyce , Benzinger Tammie L. S. , Perrin Richard J. , Denny Andrea , Snider B. Joy , Stark Susan L. , Ibanez Laura , Cruchaga Carlos
Published: July 2024

The Knight-Alzheimer Disease Research Center (Knight-ADRC) at Washington University in St. Louis has pioneered and led worldwide seminal studies that have expanded our clinical, social, pathological, and molecular understanding of Alzheimer Disease. Over more than 40 years, research volunteers have been recruited to participate in cognitive, neuropsychologic, imaging, fluid biomarkers, genomic and multi-omic studies. Tissue and longitudinal data collected to foster, facilitate, and support research on dementia and aging. The Genetics and high throughput -omics core (GHTO) have collected of more than 26,000 biological samples from 6,625 Knight-ADRC participants. Samples available include longitudinal DNA, RNA, non-fasted plasma, cerebrospinal fluid pellets, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The GHTO has performed deep molecular profiling (genomic, transcriptomic, epigenomic, proteomic, and metabolomic) from large number of brain (n = 2,117), CSF (n = 2,012) and blood/plasma (n = 8,265) samples with the goal of identifying novel risk and protective variants, identify novel molecular biomarkers and causal and druggable targets. Overall, the resources available at GHTO support the increase of our understanding of Alzheimer Disease.
Chromosome-level Genome Assembly of Theretra japonica (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae)
Authors: Yan Ming , Su Bao-Shan , Huang Yi-Xin , Xu Zhen-Bang , Jiang Zhuo-Heng , Wang Xu
Published: July 2024

Theretra japonica is an important pollinator and agricultural pest in the family Sphingidae with a wide range of host plants. High-quality genomic resources facilitate investigations into behavioral ecology, morphological and physiological adaptations, and the evolution of genomic architecture. However, chromosome-level genome of T. japonica is still lacking. Here we sequenced and assembled the high-quality genome of T. japonica by combining PacBio long reads, Illumina short reads, and Hi-C data. The genome was contained in 95 scaffolds with an accumulated length of 409.55 Mb (BUSCO calculated a genome completeness of 99.2%). The 29 pseudochromosomes had a combined length of 403.77 Mb, with a mapping rate of 98.59%. The genomic characterisation of T. japonica will contribute to further studies for Sphingidae and Lepidoptera.
Small non-coding RNA transcriptomic profiling in adult and fetal human brain
Authors: Smal Marharyta , Memoli Domenico , Alexandrova Elena , Di Rosa Domenico , D’Agostino Ylenia , Russo Fabio , Giurato Giorgio , Nassa Giovanni , Tarallo Roberta , Weisz Alessandro , Rizzo Francesca
Published: July 2024

Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) make up ~1% of the transcriptome; nevertheless, they play significant roles in regulating cellular processes. Given the complexity of the central nervous system, sncRNAs likely hold particular importance in the human brain. In this study, we provide sncRNA transcriptomic profiles in a range of adult and prenatal brain regions, with a focus on piRNAs, due to their underexplored expression in somatic cells and tissue-specific nature. Using the WIND workflow, which combines two detection methods, we found 1333 (731 miRNAs, 249 piRNAs, 285 snoRNAs, and 68 other sncRNAs) and 1445 unique sncRNAs (770 miRNAs, 307 piRNAs, 289 snoRNAs, and 79 other sncRNAs) in developing and adult brains, respectively. Significant variations were found upon comparison of fetal and adult brain groups, with 82 miRNAs, 17 piRNAs, and 70 snoRNAs enriched in fetal brains and 22 miRNAs, 11 piRNAs in adult brains. This dataset represents a valuable resource for exploring the sncRNA roles in brain function, their involvement in neurological diseases, and the molecular mechanisms behind brain region interactions.
Choline consumption reduces CVD risk via body composition modification
Authors: Wang Haomiao , Lin Jinxin , Fan Shitao , Zhang Xuyang , Zhou Tengyuan , Luo Ran , Zhang Chao , Zhang Shuixian , Yang Qingwu , Hu Rong
Published: July 2024

Despite extensive research on the relationship between choline and cardiovascular disease (CVD), conflicting findings have been reported. We aim to investigate the relationship between choline and CVD. Our analysis screened a retrospective cohort study of 14,663 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2013 and 2018. Propensity score matching and restricted cubic splines was used to access the association between choline intake and the risk of CVD. A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to examine the potential causality. Additionally, sets of single cell RNA-sequencing data were extracted and analyzed, in order to explore the role of choline metabolism pathway in the progression and severity of the CVD and the underlying potential mechanisms involved. The adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for stroke were 0.72 (0.53–0.98; p = 0.035) for quartile 3 and 0.54 (0.39–0.75; p < 0.001) for quartile 4. A stratified analysis revealed that the relationship between choline intake and stroke varied among different body mass index and waist circumference groups. The results of MR analysis showed that choline and phosphatidylcholine had a predominantly negative causal effect on fat percentage, fat mass, and fat-free mass, while glycine had opposite effects. Results from bioinformatics analysis revealed that alterations in the choline metabolism pathway following stroke may be associated with the prognosis. Our study indicated that the consumption of an appropriate quantity of choline in the diet may help to protect against CVD and the effect may be choline-mediated, resulting in a healthier body composition. Furthermore, the regulation of the choline metabolism pathway following stroke may be a promising therapeutic target.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of ZnS@CuInxSy for photocatalytic degradation of coloured and non-coloured pollutants
Authors: Rahman Ashmalina , Khan Fazlurrahman , Jennings James Robert , Kim Young-Mog , Khan Mohammad Mansoob
Published: July 2024

Copper indium sulfide (CuInS2) exhibits strong visible light absorption and thus has the potential for good photocatalytic activity; however, rapid charge recombination limits its practical usage. An intriguing strategy to overcome this issue is to couple CuInS2 with another semiconductor to form a heterojunction, which can improve the charge carrier separation and, hence, enhance the photocatalytic activity. In this study, photocatalysts comprising CuInS2 with a secondary CuS phase (termed CuInxSy) and CuInxSy loaded with ZnS (termed ZnS@CuInxSy) were synthesized via a microwave-assisted method. Structural and morphological characterization revealed that the ZnS@CuInxSy photocatalyst comprised tetragonal CuInS2 containing a secondary phase of hexagonal CuS, coupled with hexagonal ZnS. The effective band gap energy of CuInxSy was widened from 2.23 to 2.71 as the ZnS loading increased from 0 to 30%. The coupling of CuInxSy with ZnS leads to long-lived charge carriers and efficient visible-light harvesting properties, which in turn lead to a remarkably high activity for the photocatalytic degradation of brilliant green (95.6% in 5 h) and conversion of 4-nitrophenol to 4-nitrophenolate ions (95.4% in 5 h). The active species involved in these photocatalytic processes were evaluated using suitable trapping agents. Based on the obtained results, photocatalytic mechanisms are proposed that emphasize the importance of h+, O2•–, and OH− in photocatalytic processes using ZnS@CuInxSy.
TRIM59 deficiency promotes M1 macrophage activation and inhibits colorectal cancer through the STAT1 signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Haidong , Lou Jun , Liu Hao , Liu Yunlong , Xie Binbin , Zhang Wei , Xie Jiansheng , Pan Hongming , Han Weidong
Published: July 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages play a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment. Tripartite motif 59 (TRIM59), a member of the tripartite motif (TRIM) family, is known to be associated with immunological diseases and macrophage activation. The functional and molecular mechanisms by which TRIM59 affects the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer (CRC) through macrophages are still not well understood. To address this, we generated macrophage-specific TRIM59 conditional knockout mice and utilized these mice to establish colitis-associated cancer and MC38 transplanted CRC models for further investigation. We found that the deficiency of TRIM59 in macrophages inhibited colorectal tumorigenesis in mice. This tumor-suppressive effect was achieved by promoting the activation of M1 macrophages via STAT1 signaling pathway. Further mechanistic studies revealed that TRIM59 could regulate macrophage polarization by ubiquitinating and degrading STAT1. These findings provide evidence that TRIM59 deficiency promotes M1 macrophage activation and inhibits CRC through the STAT1 signaling pathway, suggesting that the TRIM59/STAT1 signaling pathway may be a promising target for CRC.
Sliding mode control strategy based on disturbance observer for permanent magnet in-wheel motor
Authors: Huang Hao , Yu Chunfeng , Sun Zhonghua , Zhang Yuanfeng , Zhao Zhibin
Published: July 2024

A novel sliding mode control(NSMC) strategy combined with a fast terminal sliding mode observer(FTSMO) is suggested in this paper to solve the parameter variation issue of permanent magnet in-wheel motor(PMIWM) installed in the distributed drive electrical vehicle (DDEV). First, a novel sliding mode power converging law is employed to enhance the response speed of the PMIWM controller. Second, an FTSMO is suggested to compensate for the parameter variation of the PMIWM system to strengthen the robustness of the control object. Finally, a fuzzy controller is designed to adjust the control parameters of the NSMC to optimize the control performance. Several simulations and experiments demonstrate that the proposed FTSMO-NSMC scheme can precisely compensate for parameter variation of the control object and improve control accuracy effectively.
Food quality influences behavioural flexibility and cognition in wild house mice
Authors: Gorshkova Ekaterina , Kyomen Stella , Kaucká Markéta , Guenther Anja
Published: July 2024

Environmental change is frequent. To adjust and survive, animals need behavioural flexibility. Recently, cognitive flexibility has emerged as a driving force for adjusting to environmental change. Understanding how environmental factors, such as food quality, influence behavioural and/or more costly cognitive flexibility. Here, we investigate the effects of high-quality versus standard food as well as the effects of different housing conditions on both types of flexibility. Our results show that mice that experienced a poorer diet under seminatural conditions showed greater behavioural but not cognitive flexibility. For cage-housed mice, the results were less clear. However, mice fed a poorer diet performed better in innovative problem-solving, thus showing enhanced cognitive flexibility, which was not apparent in the reversal learning paradigm. The observed differences were most likely due to differences in motivation to obtain food rewards. Additionally, animals on poorer diet had lower brain volume, usually related to lower cognitive task performance at the between-species level. Thus, our study emphasises the importance of environmental conditions on behavioural flexibility at the within-species level, highlights that different test paradigms may lead to different conclusions, and finally shows that cage housing of wild animals may lead to patterns that do not necessarily reflect natural conditions.
Evaluation of core Biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease in saliva and plasma measured by chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassays on a fully automated platform
Authors: Agnello Luisa , Giglio Rosaria Vincenza , Del Ben Fabio , Piccoli Tommaso , Colletti Tiziana , Scazzone Concetta , Lo Sasso Bruna , Ciaccio Anna Maria , Gambino Caterina Maria , Salemi Giuseppe , Ciaccio Marcello
Published: July 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) core biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), including amyloid peptide beta-42 (Aβ42), Aβ42/40 ratio, and phosphorylated tau (pTau), are precious tools for supporting AD diagnosis. However, their use in clinical practice is limited due to the invasiveness of CSF collection. Thus, there is intensive research to find alternative, noninvasive, and widely accessible biological matrices to measure AD core biomarkers. In this study, we measured AD core biomarkers in saliva and plasma by a fully automated platform. We enrolled all consecutive patients with cognitive decline. For each patient, we measured Aβ42, Aβ40, and pTau levels in CSF, saliva, and plasma by Lumipulse G1200 (Fujirebio). We included forty-two patients, of whom 27 had AD. Levels of all biomarkers significantly differed in the three biofluids, with saliva having the lowest and CSF the highest levels of Aβ42, Aβ40, and pTau. A positive correlation of pTau, Aβ42/40 ratio, and pTau/Aβ42 ratio levels in CSF and plasma was detected, while no correlation between any biomarker in CSF and saliva was found. Our findings suggest that plasma but not saliva could represent a surrogate biofluid for measuring core AD biomarkers. Specifically, plasma Aβ42/40 ratio, pTau/Aβ42 ratio, and pTau could serve as surrogates of the corresponding CSF biomarkers.
Targeting soluble amyloid-beta oligomers with a novel nanobody
Authors: Haynes Justin R. , Whitmore Clayton A. , Behof William J. , Landman Charlotte A. , Ong Henry H. , Feld Andrew P. , Suero Isabelle C. , Greer Celeste B. , Gore John C. , Wijesinghe Printha , Matsubara Joanne A. , Wadzinski Brian E. , Spiller Benjamin W. , Pham Wellington
Published: July 2024

The classical amyloid cascade hypothesis postulates that the aggregation of amyloid plaques and the accumulation of intracellular hyperphosphorylated Tau tangles, together, lead to profound neuronal death. However, emerging research has demonstrated that soluble amyloid-β oligomers (SAβOs) accumulate early, prior to amyloid plaque formation. SAβOs induce memory impairment and disrupt cognitive function independent of amyloid-β plaques, and even in the absence of plaque formation. This work describes the development and characterization of a novel anti-SAβO (E3) nanobody generated from an alpaca immunized with SAβO. In-vitro assays and in-vivo studies using 5XFAD mice indicate that the fluorescein (FAM)-labeled E3 nanobody recognizes both SAβOs and amyloid-β plaques. The E3 nanobody traverses across the blood–brain barrier and binds to amyloid species in the brain of 5XFAD mice. Imaging of mouse brains reveals that SAβO and amyloid-β plaques are not only different in size, shape, and morphology, but also have a distinct spatial distribution in the brain. SAβOs are associated with neurons, while amyloid plaques reside in the extracellular matrix. The results of this study demonstrate that the SAβO nanobody can serve as a diagnostic agent with potential theragnostic applications in Alzheimer’s disease.
Estimation of irrigated crop artificial irrigation evapotranspiration in China
Authors: Gao Han , Liu Jiahong , Wang Hao , Mei Chao , Wang Jia
Published: July 2024

Agriculture water use accounts for 70% of the total water withdrawal worldwide. The evapotranspiration during crop growth is one of the important hydrological processes in the agricultural water cycle. This study proposed the concept of artificial irrigation evapotranspiration of irrigated crops to describe that the evapotranspiration caused by irrigation water use. Irrigated crops rely on two kinds of water sources: precipitation and irrigation water. With the construction of irrigation schemes, the artificial irrigation evapotranspiration plays an increasingly important role in the dualistic water cycle system of irrigated cropland. To reveal the amount of artificial irrigation evapotranspiration of 17 categories of irrigated crops in China, this study proposed a new quantitative model system which was established based on traditional evapotranspiration models and soil water balance models. Based on the new model system, we calculated the annual artificial irrigation evapotranspiration of irrigated crops for the period 2013 to 2017 in China. The results showed that the proportion of artificial irrigation evapotranspiration to the total evapotranspiration of irrigated crops was 41.3%, whose value was 228.1 km3 a−1. The artificial irrigation evapotranspiration in different agricultural water management regions were 90.0 km3 a−1 in the northeast region, 86.0 km3 a−1 in the southeast region, and relatively low 52.2 km3a−1 in the west region. The results of this study can provide methods for water management and policy–making in agricultural irrigated areas, and it can also provide a preliminary understanding of the influence of human activities on the dualistic water cycle in cropland.
Fabrication of ECM protein coated hollow collagen channels to study peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Tusnim Jarin , Budharaju Karthik , Grasman Jonathan M.
Published: July 2024

Peripheral nerve injury is a prevalent clinical problem that often leads to lifelong disability and reduced quality of life. Although peripheral nerves can regenerate, recovery after severe injury is slow and incomplete. The current gold standard treatment, autologous nerve transplantation, has limitations including donor site morbidity and poor functional outcomes, highlighting the need for improved repair strategies. We developed a reproducible in vitro hollow channel collagen gel construct to investigate peripheral nerve regeneration (PNR) by exploring the influence of key extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins on axonal growth and regeneration. Channels were coated with ECM proteins: collagen IV, laminin, or fibronectin and seeded with dorsal root ganglia (DRG) collected from E16 rat embryos to compare the ability of the ECM proteins to enhance axonal growth. Robust axonal extension and Schwann cell (SC) infiltration were observed in fibronectin-coated channels, suggesting its superiority over other ECM proteins. Differential effects of ECM proteins on axons and SCs indicated direct growth stimulation beyond SC-mediated guidance. In vitro laceration injury modeling further confirmed fibronectin’s superior pro-regenerative effects, showcasing its potential in enhancing axonal regrowth post-injury. Advancing in vitro modeling that closely replicates native microenvironments will accelerate progress in overcoming the limitations of current nerve repair approaches.
Bi-directional context-aware network for the nested named entity recognition
Authors: Li Yao , Liao Ningsheng , Yan He , Zhang Ye , Wang Xu
Published: July 2024

The Span-based model can effectively capture the complex entity structure in the text, thus becoming the mainstream model for nested named entity recognition (Nested NER) tasks. However, traditional Span-based models decode each entity span independently. They do not consider the semantic connections between spans or the entities’ positional information, which limits their performance. To address these issues, we propose a Bi-Directional Context-Aware Network (Bi-DCAN) for the Nested NER. Specifically, we first design a new span-level semantic relation model. Then, the Bi-DCAN is implemented to capture this semantic relationship. Furthermore, we incorporate Rotary Position Embedding into the bi-affine mechanism to capture the relative positional information between the head and tail tokens, enabling the model to more accurately determine the position of each entity. Experimental results show that compared to the latest model Diffusion-NER, our model reduces 20M parameters and increases the F1 scores by 0.24 and 0.09 on the ACE2005 and GENIA datasets respectively, which proves that our model has an excellent ability to recognise nested entities.
Divergent histopathological and molecular patterns in chemically induced interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome rat models
Authors: Chang Ya-Chuan , Yu Chia-Ying , Dong Chen , Chen Sung-Lang , Sung Wen-Wei
Published: July 2024

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a complex chronic pain disorder with an elusive etiology and nonspecific symptoms. Although numerous animal models with phenotypes similar to human disease have been established, no available regimen can consistently alleviate clinical symptoms. This dilemma led us to question whether current animal models adequately represent IC/BPS. We compared four commonly used IC/BPS rat models to determine their diverse histopathological and molecular patterns. Female rats were given single treatments with hydrochloric acid (HCL), acetic acid (AA), protamine sulfate plus lipopolysaccharide (PS + LPS), or cyclophosphamide (CYP) to induce IC/BPS. Bladder sections were stained for histopathologic evaluation, and mRNA expression profiles were examined using next-generation sequencing and gene set analyses. Mast cell counts were significantly higher in the HCL and AA groups than in the PS + LPS, CYP, and control groups, but only the AA group showed significant collagen accumulation. The models differed substantially in terms of their gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathways. Our observations suggest that none of these rat models fully reflects the complexity of IC/BPS. We recommend that future studies apply and compare multiple models simultaneously to fully replicate the complicated features of IC/BPS.
The effects of online pilates on the mood and fear of birth of pregnant women: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Bulguroglu Merve , Bulguroglu Halil I.
Published: July 2024

The Pilates exercise method is applied online to various population groups. This study aimed to determine the effect of online Pilates exercises on depression, anxiety, and fear of childbirth in pregnant women. Our randomized controlled study divided participants into the online pilates group (OPG) and the control group (CG). Pilates exercises were applied to the OPG according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines, while the CG was given a home program. Assessments were made before and after the training. All measurements improved after Online Pilates (p < 0.05), while there was no change in the control group (p > 0.05). While initial measurement values were similar in both groups (p > 0.05), a statistical difference was observed in favor of OPG with a moderate effect percentage in all results after training (p < 0.05). These results revealed that eight weeks of online Pilates training could effectively reduce depression, anxiety, and fear of childbirth.

Trial registration:Clinical trial registry: NCT05305716.
Synthetic $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$ gauge theories based on parametric excitations of trapped ions
Authors: Bǎzǎvan Oana , Saner Sebastian , Tirrito Emanuelle , Araneda Gabriel , Srinivas Raghavendra , Bermudez Alejandro
Published: July 2024

Resource efficient schemes for the quantum simulation of lattice gauge theories can benefit from hybrid encodings of gauge and matter fields that use the native degrees of freedom, such as internal qubits and motional phonons in trapped-ion devices. We propose to use a parametric scheme to induce a tunneling of the phonons conditioned to the internal qubit state which, when implemented with a single trapped ion, corresponds to a minimal $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

Z

2

gauge theory. To evaluate the feasibility of this scheme, we perform numerical simulations of the state-dependent tunneling using realistic parameters, and identify the leading sources of error in future experiments. We discuss how to generalize this minimal case to more complex settings by increasing the number of ions, moving from a single link to a $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

Z

2

plaquette, and to an entire $${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$

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2

chain. We present analytical expressions for the gauge-invariant dynamics and the corresponding confinement, which are benchmarked using matrix product state simulations.
Strain-tuned incompatible magnetic exchange-interaction in La2NiO4
Authors: Biało Izabela , Martinelli Leonardo , De Luca Gabriele , Worm Paul , Drewanowski Annabella , Jöhr Simon , Choi Jaewon , Garcia-Fernandez Mirian , Agrestini Stefano , Zhou Ke-Jin , Kummer Kurt , Brookes Nicholas B. , Guo Luo , Edgeton Anthony , Eom Chang B. , Tomczak Jan M. , Held Karsten , Gibert Marta , Wang Qisi , Chang Johan
Published: July 2024

Magnetic frustration is a route for novel ground states, including spin liquids and spin ices. Such frustration can be introduced through either lattice geometry or incompatible exchange interactions. Here, we find that epitaxial strain is an effective tool for tuning antiferromagnetic exchange interactions in a square-lattice system. By studying the magnon excitations in La2NiO4 films using resonant inelastic x-ray scattering, we show that the magnon displays substantial dispersion along the antiferromagnetic zone boundary, at energies that depend on the lattice of the film’s substrate. Using first principles simulations and an effective spin model, we demonstrate that the antiferromagnetic next-nearest neighbour coupling is a consequence of the two-orbital nature of La2NiO4. Altogether, we illustrate that compressive epitaxial strain enhances this coupling and, as a result, increases the level of incompatibility between exchange interactions within a model square-lattice system.
Tumor evolution metrics predict recurrence beyond 10 years in locally advanced prostate cancer
Authors: Fernandez-Mateos Javier , Cresswell George D. , Trahearn Nicholas , Webb Katharine , Sakr Chirine , Lampis Andrea , Stuttle Christine , Corbishley Catherine M. , Stavrinides Vasilis , Zapata Luis , Spiteri Inmaculada , Heide Timon , Gallagher Lewis , James Chela , Ramazzotti Daniele , Gao Annie , Kote-Jarai Zsofia , Acar Ahmet , Truelove Lesley , Proszek Paula , Murray Julia , Reid Alison , Wilkins Anna , Hubank Michael , Eeles Ros , Dearnaley David , Sottoriva Andrea
Published: July 2024

Cancer evolution lays the groundwork for predictive oncology. Testing evolutionary metrics requires quantitative measurements in controlled clinical trials. We mapped genomic intratumor heterogeneity in locally advanced prostate cancer using 642 samples from 114 individuals enrolled in clinical trials with a 12-year median follow-up. We concomitantly assessed morphological heterogeneity using deep learning in 1,923 histological sections from 250 individuals. Genetic and morphological (Gleason) diversity were independent predictors of recurrence (hazard ratio (HR) = 3.12 and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.34–7.3; HR = 2.24 and 95% CI = 1.28–3.92). Combined, they identified a group with half the median time to recurrence. Spatial segregation of clones was also an independent marker of recurrence (HR = 2.3 and 95% CI = 1.11–4.8). We identified copy number changes associated with Gleason grade and found that chromosome 6p loss correlated with reduced immune infiltration. Matched profiling of relapse, decades after diagnosis, confirmed that genomic instability is a driving force in prostate cancer progression. This study shows that combining genomics with artificial intelligence-aided histopathology leads to the identification of clinical biomarkers of evolution.
Tidal and seasonal influence on cold seep activity and methanotroph efficiency in the North Sea
Authors: de Groot Tim R. , Menoud Malika , van Bleijswijk Judith , van Leeuwen Sonja M. , van der Molen J. , Hernando-Morales Victor , Czerski Helen , Maazallahi Hossein , Walter Sylvia , Rush Darci , Röckmann Thomas , Niemann Helge
Published: July 2024

The ocean’s methane emission to the atmosphere is dominated by continental shelves where cold seeps are globally common features. Seeps emit methane into the hydrosphere, but temporal variations and controls of seep activity and the efficiency of the microbial methane filter in the water column are scarce. Here we address these knowledge gaps by measuring whole water column methane inventories and methanotrophic activity at a temporal resolution of 2 hours at a North Sea cold seep (Doggerbank) in summer and autumn. We found that bottom water methane inventories were 68% (summer) and 11% (autumn) higher during low tide compared to high tide coinciding with increased methanotrophic activity. The activity of methanotrophs was reduced during autumn when the water column was fully mixed and matched by higher methane emissions to the atmosphere. Our results show that tides are underappreciated controls on seepage and methanotrophic activity and methane sea–atmosphere fluxes.
Severe droughts reduce river navigability and isolate communities in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Santos de Lima Letícia , Silva Francisco Eustáquio Oliveira e , Dorio Anastácio Paula Rosana , Kolanski Marina Marcela de Paula , Pires Pereira Ana Carolina , Menezes Marianne Stéfany Resende , Cunha Evandro Landulfo Teixeira Paradela , Macedo Marcia Nunes
Published: July 2024

The Amazon basin is experiencing severe droughts that are expected to worsen with climate change. Riverine communities are especially vulnerable to these extreme events. This study investigates the experiences of Brazilian Amazonian communities during droughts occurring from 2000-2020. We assess the distribution of settlements at risk of prolonged isolation during extreme low-water periods, along with impacts reported in digital news outlets. Using historic time series of river levels from 90 gauges, we look at how long droughts lasted in regions with reported impacts. Results indicate that the droughts in 2005, 2010, and 2016 were the most severe, with over an additional month of low water levels in those years. Such drought events routinely disrupt inland water transport and isolate local populations, limiting access to essential goods (food, fuel, medicine) and basic services (healthcare, education). Given this new reality, Amazon countries must develop long-term strategies for mitigation, adaptation, and disaster response.