bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogas purification by CO2 removal using facilitated transport mechanism of cellulose nanocrystals/polyvinyl alcohol layered hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Nithin Mithra S. , Ahankari Sandeep S.
Published: April 2024

Biogas can be a viable solution for replacing the conventional fuel for reducing pollution. However, the high CO2 content in biogas must be removed for its utilization. In this study, biogas purification is carried out employing cellulose nanocrystals (CNC)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) “selective layered” polysulfone hollow fiber membrane. The membrane chamber is designed such that the cross‐flow of the biogas can be ensured for the effective interaction of the biogas with membrane surface. From various characterization tools like field emission scanning electron microscope, FTIR, X‐ray diffraction, moisture absorption and tensile test, CNC1/PVA (1 wt% of CNC in PVA) nanocomposite film demonstrated optimum crystallinity and mechanical strength while retaining higher moisture absorption. The average selective layer thickness at this CNC concentration is 1169 nm. CO2 permeability of 17,858 barrer and the selectivity of 19 for CO2 over CH4 is observed, respectively.
Comparative anatomy and evolution of the atlantoaxial complex in the fossorial lineage Amphisbaenia (Squamata: Lacertoidea)
Authors: Araújo Salvino Clara , Hernandéz‐Morales Cristian , Daza Juan Diego , Nunes Pedro M. Sales
Published: April 2024

The atlas and axis are the first two vertebrae from the cervical series; these two vertebrae are responsible for neck flexion, extension, and rotation movements, while providing insertion points for muscles and tendons. Amphisbaenia is a group of fossorial squamates known for having four distinctive head shapes, which are related to different excavation methods. However, little is known about the relationship between these different digging patterns and the anatomy and evolution of the atlantoaxial complex. In this study, we used computed microtomography data to describe in detail of the atlantoaxial complex for 15 species, belonging to all six current families of Amphisbaenia. Furthermore, we evaluate evolutionary scenarios of selected characters related to the atlantoaxial complex in the most recent phylogeny for Amphisbaenia, using the criteria of parsimony and maximum likelihood. Our results indicate that the evolutionary pattern of the atlantoaxial complex presents a diversification in its morphology that is not always correlated with the shape of the head. This analysis reinforces the hypothesis of remarkable morphological convergences in the evolutionary history of Amphisbaenia. Additionally, some of the characters studied may represent independent evolution through convergence in some cases (e.g., horizontal axis of the neural column) and parallelism in others (e.g., present or absent from the transverse process).
Magnetic and GPR Data Modelling via Multiscale Methods in San Pietro in Crapolla Abbey, Massa Lubrense (Naples)
Authors: Bianco Luigi , La Manna Mauro , Russo Valentina , Fedi Maurizio
Published: April 2024

We performed magnetic and GPR measurements to image the buried ruins of the Middle Age abbey San Pietro in Crapolla, on the Sorrento‐Amalfi Coast (Massa Lubrense, Southern Italy). The site represents an important religious location, which is nowadays partially buried along the cliff. An integrated study was necessary to map the buried structures and address the archaeological excavation. For this reason, we carried out the surveys on two main grids in order to reconstruct the structures of the abbey and of its related church. The magnetic data were filtered through the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and then transformed to total gradient maps. The obtained maps were interpreted with depth from extreme points (DEXP) imaging method to assess the horizontal and depth positions of the top. The GPR data were processed and time‐depth converted. Results from the integrated interpretation of these data suggest the possible presence of different vaulted rooms and an elongated structure at 0.3‐m depth from ground surface. This latter is interpretable in terms of perimetral and internal walls of the abbey and its church. These outcomes were crucial to successfully address archaeological excavations, which targeted one of the modelled areas and unearthed a wall at the predicted depths.
Does disseminating scientific information on social media promote public health during the COVID‐19 pandemic?
Authors: Quan Mingzhe , Zhang Chenwei
Published: April 2024

Countries worldwide are transitioning their emergency response activities into long‐term management of COVID‐19. One promising strategy to mitigate the pandemic is combining the widespread use of social media with the potential impact of scientists on science education to create healthier information ecosystems. This study analyzed data from 189 online polls involving 1,391,706 participants who are either Sina Weibo or Tencent WeChat users to explore the impact of scientific information disseminated on social media on public health. This study aimed to address the following questions: (1) Does scientific information disseminated on social media help its audiences avoid becoming infected with COVID‐19? (2) To what extent does scientific information make a difference in the infection rate of its audiences? Our study found that the COVID‐19 un‐infection rate of the audiences receiving scientific information is significantly higher than that of the general social media users. There is a significant and lasting positive correlation between the dissemination of scientific information and the un‐infection rate of its audiences. We suggest that creating healthier information ecosystems should be integrated into the long‐term management of COVID‐19, as updating the public's beliefs about the pandemic is fundamental to mitigating the ongoing threat of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Observer‐based distributed dynamic event‐triggered control of multi‐agent systems with adjustable interevent time
Authors: Wang Zeyuan , Chadli Mohammed
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a novel dynamic event‐triggered control protocol for leader‐following problems of generic linear multi‐agent systems is proposed. Compared with the existing static event‐triggered strategy, the developed event‐triggered approach significantly reduces the utilization of communication resources while guaranteeing asymptotic consensus, and the interevent time is adjustable. Under this event scheduling mechanism, a synthesis approach combining controller and observer design is presented. The observer‐based control and event‐triggered rules are distributed, which only require local information of each agent to implement. The proposed methods incorporate model‐based estimation and auxiliary dynamic variables with a clock‐like behavior to prolong the interevent time as long as possible. The sufficient conditions for leader‐following consensus are established using linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) formulation to facilitate numerical computation. Comparative simulations in different scenarios demonstrate the validity of the proposed theoretical results.
Midsummer precipitation prediction over eastern China by the dynamic downscaling method
Authors: Bo Zhong Kai , Chen Li Juan , Xu Wei Ping , Gu Wei Zong
Published: April 2024

This study assesses the midsummer precipitation prediction over eastern China by the dynamic downscaling method. Based on the Climate Forecast System version 2 of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction and the Weather Research and Forecasting Model, the prediction performance of global and regional models on the July precipitation over eastern China is further analyzed by hindcast experiments from 1982 to 2010 and prediction experiments from 2011 to 2021. The results suggest that the regional model forced by the global model can noticeably improve the prediction skill for precipitation in eastern China, especially in the region from the South of North China to the Yangtze River Basin, referred as the northern China in this paper. In addition, we perform a diagnostic analysis of the reason for the improvement of the model prediction skill. The results indicate that the high resolution of the regional model and the refinement of physical process parameterizations contribute to improving the simulation ability for the East Asian atmospheric circulation pattern, heat flux, especially for the meridional teleconnection pattern in East Asia and the sensible heat flux in the northern China, thus further improving precipitation prediction.
Microplastics and the Water Industry
Authors: Holloway Nikki , Adams Hunter , Espindola Carlos Anthony , Ikehata Keisuke
Published: April 2024

Key Takeaways

Found in freshwater and ocean environments, microplastics may pose hazards through chemical transfer if they are made of harmful chemicals or they can adsorb pollutants.

Microplastics pollution sources include clothes washing, wastewater systems, biosolids, tire and road wear, and atmospheric particles that affect wildlife and humans.

Nanofiltration and reverse osmosis should more effectively remove microplastics than microfiltration and ultrafiltration, even if the membrane barriers are also made of plastics.

Analytical method progress on microplastics includes quantification (enumeration and mass concentration), size characterization, and minimum thresholds for detection (size and mass).
Modeling Copper Alloy Corrosion in Underground Service Line Components
Authors: Muller Larry
Published: April 2024

Key Takeaways

It's important for the water industry to determine which corrosion tests are suitable to evaluate potential alloys for service line components buried underground.

Two dezincification tests were effective at correlating to field experience.

Electrochemical corrosion tests using “low‐ and high‐corrosive” synthetic soil with neutral pH were not generally effective in predicting field experience.
The role of lipoylation in mitochondrial adaptation to methionine restriction
Authors: Xue Jingyuan , Ye Cunqi
Published: April 2024

Dietary methionine restriction (MR) is associated with a spectrum of health‐promoting benefits. Being conducive to prevention of chronic diseases and extension of life span, MR can activate integrated responses at metabolic, transcriptional, and physiological levels. However, how the mitochondria of MR influence metabolic phenotypes remains elusive. Here, we provide a summary of cellular functions of methionine metabolism and an overview of the current understanding of effector mechanisms of MR, with a focus on the aspect of mitochondria‐mediated responses. We propose that mitochondria can sense and respond to MR through a modulatory role of lipoylation, a mitochondrial protein modification sensitized by MR.
Rational design of a nonclassical liposomal nanoscale drug delivery system for innovative cancer therapy
Authors: Wang Chunjie , Sun Xiaoqi , Feng Liangzhu , Liu Zhuang
Published: April 2024

Advanced drug delivery systems are widely considered to be powerful approaches for treating cancer and many other diseases because of their superior ability to improve pharmacokinetics, promote lesion‐targeted delivery efficacy, and/or reduce the toxic effects of diverse therapeutics. Owing to the unique biomimetic structure of lipid bilayers surrounding aqueous cavities, liposomes have been found to encapsulate various therapeutics, ranging from small molecules with different hydrophobicities to biomacromolecules. With the advent of surface PEGylation, stealth liposomes with excellent in vivo long‐circulating behaviors have been generated, thus these liposomes have been extensively explored for the development of liposomal drugs with greatly improved in vivo pharmacokinetic behaviors by functioning as delivery vehicles. Inspired by their successes in clinical practice, stealth liposomes have recently been utilized as the main building scaffold or surface coating layers of other nanoparticulate formulations, which are coined as nonclassical liposomal nanoscale drug delivery systems (NDDSs) in this review, to enable the rational design of next‐generation liposomal nanomedicine. Therefore, after overviewing the latest progress in the development of conventional liposome‐based nanomedicine, we will introduce the development of these nonclassical liposomal NDDSs as well as their innovative cancer treatment strategies. We will subsequently provide a critical perspective on the future development of new cancer nanomedicines based on these rationally designed nonclassical liposomal NDDSs.
Expanding deep phenotypic spectrum associated with atypical pathogenic structural variations overlapping 15q11–q13 imprinting region
Authors: Mim Rabeya Akter , Soorajkumar Anjana , Kosaji Noor , Rahman Muhammad Mizanur , Sarker Shaoli , Karuvantevida Noushad , Eshaque Tamannyat Binte , Rahaman Md Atikur , Islam Amirul , Chowdhury Mohammod Shah Jahan , Shams Nusrat , Uddin K. M. Furkan , Akter Hosneara , Uddin Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Background

The 15q11–q13 region is a genetic locus with genes subject to genomic imprinting, significantly influencing neurodevelopment. Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon that causes differential gene expression based on the parent of origin. In most diploid organisms, gene expression typically involves an equal contribution from both maternal and paternal alleles, shaping the phenotype. Nevertheless, in mammals, including humans, mice, and marsupials, the functional equivalence of parental alleles is not universally maintained. Notably, during male and female gametogenesis, parental alleles may undergo differential marking or imprinting, thereby modifying gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) (resulting from the absence of paternally expressed genes in this region), Angelman syndrome (AS) (associated with the absence of the maternally expressed UBE3A gene), and 15q11–q13 duplication syndrome (resulting from the two common forms of duplications—either an extra isodicentric 15 chromosome or an interstitial 15 duplication), are the outcomes of genetic variations in this imprinting region.

Methods

Conducted a genomic study to identify the frequency of pathogenic variants impacting the 15q11–q13 region in an ethnically homogenous population from Bangladesh. Screened all known disorders from the DECIPHER database and identified variant enrichment within this cohort. Using the Horizon analysis platform, performed enrichment analysis, requiring at least >60% overlap between a copy number variation and a disorder breakpoint. Deep clinical phenotyping was carried out through multiple examination sessions to evaluate a range of clinical symptoms.

Results

This study included eight individuals with clinically suspected PWS/AS, all previously confirmed through chromosomal microarray analysis, which revealed chromosomal breakpoints within the 15q11–q13 region. Among this cohort, six cases (75%) exhibited variable lengths of deletions, whereas two cases (25%) showed duplications. These included one type 2 duplication, one larger atypical duplication, one shorter type 2 deletion, one larger type 1 deletion, and four cases with atypical deletions. Furthermore, thorough clinical assessments led to the diagnosis of four PWS patients, two AS patients, and two individuals with 15q11–q13 duplication syndrome.

Conclusion

Our deep phenotypic observations identified a spectrum of clinical features that overlap and are unique to PWS, AS, and Dup15q syndromes. Our findings establish genotype–phenotype correlation for patients impacted by variable structural variations within the 15q11–q13 region.
The returned product‐process matrix: A decision‐making framework for reverse logistics operations strategic choice
Authors: Aryee Raphael , Adaku Ebenezer , Quayson Sarah , Tetteh Evelyn Ogboo Apronti
Published: April 2024

A common and comprehensive framework that clarifies the choice of a reverse logistics (RL) strategy is still unavailable in the extant literature. Such a complete framework for RL decision‐making has the potential to offer insights for the choice of RL strategies, particularly in this era where closed‐loop supply chain is gaining traction in research and practice. Thus, this study seeks to identify RL strategies based on a systematic literature review and industry consultation. The study used the systematic literature review approach to analyse articles collected mostly from the Scopus database. The outcome is a framework, referred to as the “Returned Product‐Process Matrix” (RPPM), that offers a holistic view of RL strategies, which can serve as a decision‐support system for practitioners in choosing the appropriate RL strategy. To the best of the researchers' knowledge, the RPPM is the first attempt at comprehensively structuring and clarifying the RL decision‐making in green logistics operations.
Various faces of activist identity: The role of intrinsic and materialistic goals and mass gatherings
Authors: Zawadzka Anna Maria , Besta Tomasz , Iwanowska Magdalena
Published: April 2024

The presented research explores the relationship between intrinsic and materialistic goals and activist identity and commitment, and whether this relationship is moderated by participation in a mass gathering. Six studies were conducted (n = 997). These included participants of mass gatherings for diverse purposes, for example, minority rights demonstrations and religious gatherings (Studies 1–4), as well as participants from the general population (Studies 5 and 6). The results of regression analysis and meta‐analysis showed that the pursuit of both intrinsic and materialistic goals predicts activist identity and commitment. Regardless of whether respondents were involved in a mass gathering during the study or not, and regardless of the cause of the gathering, community feeling—an intrinsic goal—was consistently a positive significant predictor of activist identity and commitment (Study 1–6). However, for respondents who were not involved in a mass gathering during the study, popularity—a materialistic goal – also emerged as an important positive predictor of activist identity and commitment (Study 5 and 6). Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Ring‐Contracted Artemisinin Derivatives as Novel CDK 4/6 Inhibitors: Synthesis and Anti‐Breast Cancer Evaluation
Authors: Zhu Jun‐Jie , Ai Yi , Wu Jun‐Hui , Zeng Chang‐Guang , Cui Zhen , Zhang Zheng‐Ping , Zhu Jia‐Yi , Wang Chang‐Qi , Zhong Hang
Published: April 2024

The endoperoxide group of artemisinins is universally accepted an essential group for their anti‐cancer effects. In this study, a series of D‐ring‐contracted artemisinin derivatives were constructed by combining ring‐contracted artemisinin core with fragments of functional heterocyclic molecules or classical CDK4/6 inhibitors to identify more efficacious breast cancer treatment agents. Twenty‐six novel hybridized molecules were synthesized and characterized by HRMS, IR, 1H‐NMR and 13C NMR. In antiproliferative activities and kinase inhibitory effects assays, we found that the antiproliferative effects of B01 were close to those of the positive control Palbociclib, with GI50 values of 4.87±0.23 μM and 9.97±1.44 μM towards T47D cells and MDA‐MB‐436 cells respectively. In addition, the results showed that B01 was the most potent compound against CDK6/cyclin D3 kinase, with an IC50 value of 0.135±0.041 μM, and its activity was approximately 1/3 of the positive control Palbociclib.
Chest pain in a patient with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis: A case report
Authors: Xie Linfeng , Luo Suxin , Huang Bi
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR‐CM) commonly present with dyspnea, fatigue, and edema. In our case, the main presentation was exertional angina, which was atypical in patients with ATTR‐CM and should be paid more attention to.

A 54‐year‐old woman was admitted with a complaint of exertional chest pain, and she had a history of hypertension. The results of the electrocardiogram and echocardiography revealed the clues of cardiac amyloidosis, and the patient was finally diagnosed with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis, then she received tafamidis, and the symptoms improved significantly.
Osteoblastoma of the frontal sinus: A rare case presenting with seizures and pneumocephalus
Authors: Mallik Dattatraya , Chandrashekhar Nandyal , Rai Abhishek Kumar , Dhingra Saransh , Arora Gaurav , Gandhi Sapan , Scalia Gianluca , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Osteoblastoma of the frontal sinus, although rare, can manifest with seizures and pneumocephalus, underscoring the importance of thorough evaluation and complete surgical excision to prevent serious complications and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Osteoblastoma is an infrequent bone tumor, with origins typically in the vertebrae and long bones. While craniofacial involvement is rare, it may occur in regions such as the paranasal sinuses. We present a case of osteoblastoma located in the frontal sinus, an exceptionally uncommon site, resulting in seizures secondary to pneumocephalus. A 21‐year‐old male presented with a generalized tonic–clonic seizure and postictal confusion. Imaging studies revealed a well‐defined lesion in the left frontal sinus causing cortical breach, destruction of the posterior wall, and pneumocephalus. A total surgical excision was performed through bifrontal craniotomy. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of osteoblastoma. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with a follow‐up CT scan showing complete lesion excision. Osteoblastomas, especially in the cranial sinuses, are rare entities that may present asymptomatically but can lead to severe complications. The risk of recurrence underscores the importance of complete surgical resection for optimal patient outcomes.
A case of celiac plexus block causing iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Chindris Ana‐Maria , Rao Sarika N. , Chirila Razvan M. , Dumitrascu Adrian G.
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Treatment with corticosteroids can lead to iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome when used for longer intervals and in high doses. Less common administration routes may conceal the exposure, raising the possibility of misdiagnosis and mismanagement.
Ionic Liquid‐Silver Catalysts for Acetylene Acetoxylation at Low‐Temperature
Authors: Zhuang Qi , Zhang Xunchao , Zhu Mingyuan , Dai Bin
Published: April 2024

It was crucial to develop a catalyst with high catalytic activity at low temperatures, as the zinc‐based catalysts were prone to deactivation in the high‐temperature reaction of acetylene acetoxylation, and Ionic liquid (IL)‐silver (Ag) catalysts were synthesized and applied in acetylene acetoxylation. The X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterizations displayed that Ag species were stabilized in the state of Ag+, and the dispersion of the Ag active species was effectively improved in supported‐ionic‐liquid‐phase (SILP) system. Furthermore, we prepared Ag‐IL liquid phase catalysts for catalyzing acetylene acetoxylation in liquid phase systems. It was demonstrated that the presence of ILs could effectively stabilize the Ag+ active site. The catalytic performance of the Ag‐IL/AC catalyst prepared in this article at a low temperature of 180 °C was 2.5 times that of the traditional Zn/AC catalyst. The development of low‐temperature catalysts would play a driving role in the development of acetylene acetoxylation.
In Situ Determination of the Potential Distribution within a Copper Foam Electrode in a Zinc‐Air/Silver Hybrid Flow Battery
Authors: Genthe Sascha , Arenas Luis F. , Becker Maik , Kunz Ulrich , Turek Thomas
Published: April 2024

This work describes a novel methodology for measuring the potential distribution within the porous copper foam electrode of a zinc‐air/silver hybrid (ZASH) flow battery by using local potential probes. The suitability of dynamic hydrogen electrodes (DHEs) and a quasi‐reference electrode as probes is evaluated, with the latter chosen in view of stability. Liquid and solid‐phase potentials are recorded at varying applied current densities over multiple charge‐discharge cycles. Various zinc structures are found within specific overpotential ranges, with moss‐like structures appearing between 7.8 mV and 13.2 mV and the desired boulder structures in the range of 22 mV to 100 mV. Regardless of the current density, the highest liquid‐phase potentials are always measured in the outermost region of the porous foam near to the separator. In practice, this means that increasing the thickness of the copper foam over about 5 mm does not provide significant performance benefits. Conversely, solid‐phase potentials across the copper foam remain nearly uniform, resulting in negligible effects on local overpotential. The presented technique provides unique insights into the behavior of porous electrodes in electrochemical energy conversion technologies, facilitating the determination of the optimal properties for maximum efficiency, such as electrode thickness.
Structural Reconstruction Chemistry for Alkaline Oxygen Evolution Catalysts
Authors: Ma Peiyu , Jia Chuanyi , Zhang Zhirong , Bao Jun
Published: April 2024

Developing efficient and stable catalysts for energy conversion processes such as alkaline oxygen evolution reaction is one of the key measures to solve the energy shortage problems. During alkaline oxygen evolution, several electrocatalysts would undergo structural reconstruction from the pre‐catalyst state to the real‐catalyst state. The structural reconstruction may modify the quantity and characterizations of the active sites, thus affecting the configuration and adsorption strength of the reaction key intermediates, which directly influence the activity and stability of the electrocatalysts. Understanding the structural transformation chemistry is essential for the rational design of highly efficient and stable electrocatalysts. In this review, we have deeply discussed the role and regulation strategies of structural reconstruction. Then, on this basis, we described some characterization technologies to probe the structural reconstruction of catalysts during alkaline OER. Finally, we put forward some views on the future research direction of this vital field.
Tagraxofusp, a first‐in‐class CD123‐targeted agent: Five‐year postapproval comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Jen Wei‐Ying , Konopleva Marina , Pemmaraju Naveen
Published: April 2024

Tagraxofusp is a first‐in‐class CD123‐directed conjugate of an amended diphtheria toxin platform and recombinant interleukin 3. Binding and subsequent internalization of the drug result in cell death via disruption of intracellular protein synthesis. CD123 is a surface marker that is expressed in several hematological malignancies, especially blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN), where its expression is ubiquitous. A pivotal study of tagraxofusp in BPDCN resulted in its approval for the treatment of BPDCN, the first treatment approved for this indication. Since the introduction of tagraxofusp, research has focused on the management of adverse effects, combination therapy to improve outcomes in fit patients, and dosing and combination strategies to mitigate toxicities while preserving efficacy, especially among older patients. The successful targeting of CD123 in BPDCN has also encouraged research into a variety of other CD123‐positive hematological neoplasms, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and informed the development of other novel agents targeting CD123. This review examines the clinical data leading to the development and approval of tagraxofusp in BPDCN, how it is being used in combination to improve outcomes in BPDCN and AML, and its developing role in other hematological malignancies.
LC filter optimized design considering the effect on the power converter and capacitor lifetimes
Authors: Bolsi Pedro C. , Prado Edemar O. , Lenz João M. , Sartori Hamiltom C. , Pinheiro José R.
Published: April 2024

This work presents an LC filter design methodology that considers the optimization of the converter as a whole: filter, semiconductor switches, and DC bus. The optimization is made in light of the system losses, volume, and the capacitors lifetime, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of decisions in the parametric design of the filter (of the values of L and C). The technology of components and construction challenges are considered in the design. The manuscript guides the design process of the filter in two steps: first, by providing the means to perform the parametric sweep of possible filter designs, according to the converter specifications and other restrictions; second, by describing how the hardware design is carried out and indicating the models and methods that are being used. Individualized analyses for each part of the converter system are made, and using the proposed methodology, three design examples are provided and analyzed, each choosing the filter parameters with different objectives: minimum volume, maximum capacitor lifetime, or maximum efficiency. Results show that using Kool M
material results in the lowest filter volumes and losses. It is also shown that for the DC bus design, there is a compromise between volume and lifetime, with a greater number of capacitors increasing both attributes. By designing the system using the proposed methodology, the minimum volume is achieved at an operating point that differs from the individual minimum volumes of the filter and the inverter, and the lifetime is only 1.78% than the maximum lifetime point.
SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected human airway epithelial cell cultures uniquely lack interferon and immediate early gene responses caused by other coronaviruses
Authors: Wang Ying , Thaler Melissa , Salgado‐Benvindo Clarisse , Ly Nathan , Leijs Anouk A , Ninaber Dennis K , Hansbro Philip M , Boedijono Fia , van Hemert Martijn J , Hiemstra Pieter S , van der Does Anne M , Faiz Alen
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is a member of a class of highly pathogenic coronaviruses. The large family of coronaviruses, however, also includes members that cause only mild symptoms, like human coronavirus‐229E (HCoV‐229E) or OC43 (HCoV‐OC43). Unravelling how molecular (and cellular) pathophysiology differs between highly and low pathogenic coronaviruses is important for the development of therapeutic strategies.

Methods

Here, we analysed the transcriptome of primary human bronchial epithelial cells (PBEC), differentiated at the air–liquid interface (ALI) after infection with SARS‐CoV‐2, SARS‐CoV, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)‐CoV and HCoV‐229E using bulk RNA sequencing.

Results

ALI‐PBEC were efficiently infected by all viruses, and SARS‐CoV, MERS‐CoV and HCoV‐229E infection resulted in a largely similar transcriptional response. The response to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection differed markedly as it uniquely lacked the increase in expression of immediate early genes, including FOS, FOSB and NR4A1 that was observed with all other coronaviruses. This finding was further confirmed in publicly available experimental and clinical datasets. Interfering with NR4A1 signalling in Calu‐3 lung epithelial cells resulted in a 100‐fold reduction in extracellular RNA copies of SARS‐CoV‐2 and MERS‐CoV, suggesting an involvement in virus replication. Furthermore, a lack in induction of interferon‐related gene expression characterised the main difference between the highly pathogenic coronaviruses and low pathogenic viruses HCoV‐229E and HCoV‐OC43.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate a previously unknown suppression of a host response gene set by SARS‐CoV‐2 and confirm a difference in interferon‐related gene expression between highly pathogenic and low pathogenic coronaviruses.
Relationship of plasma biomarkers to digital cognitive tests in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Toniolo Sofia , Zhao Sijia , Scholcz Anna , Amein Benazir , Ganse‐Dumrath Akke , Heslegrave Amanda J. , Thompson Sian , Manohar Sanjay , Zetterberg Henrik , Husain Masud
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

A major limitation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research is the lack of the ability to measure cognitive performance at scale—robustly, remotely, and frequently. Currently, there are no established online digital platforms validated against plasma biomarkers of AD.

METHODS

We used a novel web‐based platform that assessed different cognitive functions in AD patients (N = 46) and elderly controls (N = 53) who were also evaluated for plasma biomarkers (amyloid beta 42/40 ratio, phosphorylated tau ([p‐tau]181, glial fibrillary acidic protein, neurofilament light chain). Their cognitive performance was compared to a second, larger group of elderly controls (N = 352).

RESULTS

Patients with AD were significantly impaired across all digital cognitive tests, with performance correlating with plasma biomarker levels, particularly p‐tau181. The combination of p‐tau181 and the single best‐performing digital test achieved high accuracy in group classification.

DISCUSSION

These findings show how online testing can now be deployed in patients with AD to measure cognitive function effectively and related to blood biomarkers of the disease.

Highlights

This is the first study comparing online digital testing to plasma biomarkers.

Alzheimer's disease patients and two independent cohorts of elderly controls were assessed.

Cognitive performance correlated with plasma biomarkers, particularly phosphorylated tau (p‐tau)181.

Glial fibrillary acidic protein and neurofilament light chain, and less so the amyloid beta 42/40 ratio, were also associated with performance.

The best cognitive metric performed at par to p‐tau181 in group classification.
YTHDF2 promotes gastric cancer progression and enhances chemoradiotherapy resistance
Authors: Yang Jian , Chen Yawen , He Yang , Da Mingxu
Published: April 2024

The role of YTHDF2 in gastric cancer (GC) is controversial. Due to the limitations of technical difficulty and experimental period, research on completely knocking out YTHDF2 is rare. Therefore, further investigations are still needed to clarify the YTHDF2's clinical significance and biological function in GC. To carry out the investigation, an analysis was performed on the expression levels of YTHDF2 in both publicly available databases and samples obtained from patients with gastric cancer. Based on the complete knockout of YTHDF2 using the CRISPR‐Cas9 system, in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to analyze the effects of YTHDF2 on tumor formation, radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy resistance in GC. Our investigation revealed an increase in YTHDF2 levels in GC tissues, which was found to be associated with a negative prognosis. Under hypoxic conditions, high expression of YTHDF2 enhanced the invasion of gastric cancer cells, and high expression of YTHDF2 was associated with HIF‐1a. YTHDF2 facilitated gastric cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the results of the present study demonstrated that YTHDF2 mediated the expression of CyclinD1 and stability of CyclinD1 mRNA. CyclinD1 knockdown inhibited YTHDF2‐mediated GC cell proliferation whereas CyclinD1 overexpression ameliorated YTHDF2 knockdown‐induced inhibition of GC progression. Furthermore, YTHDF2 also promoted resistance to DDP and CTX chemotherapy, along with radiotherapy treatment for GC cells. The findings suggested that YTHDF2 expression accelerated GC progression through a potential mechanism involving CyclinD1 expression, and enhanced chemoradiotherapy resistance. This indicated that YTHDF2 could be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for individuals diagnosed with GC.
Single and multiple inhibitors of the biosynthesis of 5‐, 12‐, 15‐lipoxygenase products derived from cinnamyl‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐α‐cyanocinnamate: Synthesis and structure–activity relationship
Authors: Touaibia Mohamed , Chiasson Audrey Isabel , Robichaud Samuel , Doiron Jérémie A. , Hébert Mathieu P. A. , Surette Marc E.
Published: April 2024

The involvement of lipoxygenases in various pathologies, combined with the unavailability of safe and effective inhibitors of the biosynthesis of their products, is a source of inspiration for the development of new inhibitors. Based on a structural analysis of known inhibitors of lipoxygenase products biosynthesis, a comprehensive structure–activity study was carried out, which led to the discovery of several novel compounds (16a‐c, 17a) demonstrating promising potency to inhibit the biosynthesis of products of 5‐, 12‐ and 15‐LO. Compounds 16b and 16c outperformed zileuton (1), the only FDA‐approved 5‐LO inhibitor, as well as known inhibitors such as caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE (2)) and cinnamyl‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐α‐cyanocinnamate (CDC (4)). However, the introduction of a cyano group at the α‐position of the carbonyl abolished the activity. Compounds 16a and 17a also inhibited the biosynthesis of 12‐ and 15‐LO products. Compounds 16a, 17a far surpassed baicalein, a known 12‐LO inhibitor, as inhibitors of 12‐LO products biosynthesis. Compound 17a and CDC (4) showed equivalent inhibition of LO products, proposing that the double bond in the ester moiety is not necessary for the inhibitory activity. The introduction of the cyano group, as in compound 17a, at the α‐position of the carbonyl in compound 16a significantly reduced the inhibitory activity against the biosynthesis of 15‐LO products. In addition to the interactions with residues His372 and Phe421 also found with zileuton and CAPE, compounds 16a and 16c each interact with residue His367 as shown by molecular docking. This new interaction may explain their high affinity with the 5‐LO active site.
Assessment for shallow and large tunnel construction in weak ground conditions: Application of tunnel boring machines
Authors: Karahan Servet , Gokceoglu Candan
Published: April 2024

With recent technological advancements, tunnel boring machines (TBM) have developed and exhibited high performance in large diameters and weak ground conditions. Tunnels are crucial structures that significantly influence the timelines of highway and railway projects. Therefore, the construction of tunnels with TBMs becomes a preferred option. In this study, a comparative analysis between TBM and the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) for tunnel construction is performed in the construction of the T1 tunnel with a diameter of 13 m, which is the longest tunnel in the Eşme‐Salihli section of Ankara‐İzmir High‐Speed Railway Project (Türkiye). The selection of TBM type, measures taken in problematic sections, and application issues of TBM are discussed. The impact of correct description of geological and geotechnical conditions on both selection and performance of TBM is presented. An earth pressure balanced type TBM is chosen for the construction of the T1 tunnel. Because of the additional engineering measures taken before excavation in problematic areas, the tunnel was completed with great success within the initially planned timeframe. From this point of view, this study is an important case and may contribute to worldwide tunneling literature.
Examining compulsive exercise as a risk factor for eating disorder symptoms in first‐year college students using a latent change score modeling approach
Authors: Palermo Madeline , Rancourt Diana
Published: April 2024

Objective

Research suggests that both compulsive exercise and eating disordered behaviors increase during college. Despite strong cross‐sectional associations between compulsive exercise and eating disorders, it is unknown if compulsive exercise is a variable risk factor for eating disorders or simply a correlate. It was hypothesized that increases in compulsive exercise would significantly and prospectively predict increases in overall number of eating disorder symptoms over the study period.

Method

A total of 265 first year college students who did not meet criteria for a full or subthreshold eating disorder diagnosis at Time 1 (age M = 18.15; SD = 0.42; 122 female [46%] at Time 1) completed reports of compulsive exercise and eating disorder symptoms via online questionnaires at four timepoints over the 9‐month 2021–2022 academic year (76% retention rate). Hypotheses were tested using a bivariate latent change score model.

Results

Hypotheses were not supported. Change in compulsive exercise did not predict change in number of eating disorder symptoms. Change in number of eating disorder symptoms also did not predict change in compulsive exercise.

Conclusions

Compulsive exercise did not emerge as a variable risk factor for the development of eating disorder symptoms among first year college students. The relationship between these behaviors should be investigated at different developmental timepoints, such as early adolescence, and potential third variables that may explain the observed co‐occurrence should be explored.

Public significance

This study investigated whether increases in compulsive exercise predicted increases in number of eating disorder symptoms among first year college students. Compulsive exercise did not significantly predict number of eating disorder symptoms. Additional research is warranted to clarify the relationship between compulsive exercise and eating disorder symptoms.
High nest failure in a zebra finch population and persistent nest predation by a monitor lizard
Authors: Naguib Marc , ter Avest Evelien , Tyson Chris , Whiting Martin J. , Griffith Simon C. , Loning Hugo
Published: April 2024

Predation is well known to have substantial effects on behaviour and fitness in many animals. In songbirds, nest predation is rarely observed directly, so that research focusses primarily on the consequences of predation and less on the behaviour of the predator. Here, we report predation data in a zebra finch (Taeniopygia catanosis) nest box population, highlighting a 22‐min‐long sequence, captured on video, of a sand goanna (Varanus gouldii) predating a zebra finch nest in the wild. This monitor lizard appeared to be extremely persistent with climbing and jumping up to the next box nine times, including three successive unsuccessful attempts that lead to a change in approach strategy. It removed all six nestlings from the nest box during those repeated approaches and consumed them. In combination with overall high predation rates in the study population we document here, the findings highlight the role that a single predator species can have on nest success and, thus potentially also breeding decisions and social organisation of the prey population. Specifically so in a species like the zebra finch which synchronises reproductive attempts through the use of social information acquired through nest inspections and which uses social hotspots where they could gather information on changes in local social composition due to the individualised signals they use.
Comparing spatiotemporal species distribution models: A case study of a Scotian Shelf sea cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa)
Authors: Hebert Nathan E. , Sameoto Jessica A. , Keith David M. , Barrett Melanie A. , Brown Craig J. , Mills Flemming Joanna
Published: April 2024

Numerous spatiotemporal species distribution modeling frameworks are now available to the ecological practitioner. This study compared three such frameworks accessible in the R programming language: generalized additive models with spatiotemporal smooths as implemented by mgcv, spatiotemporal generalized linear mixed models based on nearest neighbor Gaussian processes as implemented by starve, and spatiotemporal generalized linear mixed models based on the stochastic partial differential equations approach as implemented by sdmTMB. The primary focus was to compare the inferences obtained from applying these frameworks to the case study of the orange‐footed sea cucumber, Cucumaria frondosa, on the Scotian Shelf off Nova Scotia, Canada. Each model was fit to catch data (2000–2019) from Fisheries and Oceans Canada's annual Research Vessel and Snow Crab surveys. Environmental covariates were sourced from high‐resolution data layers, including physical oceanographic, bathymetric, and seafloor morphometric datasets. The three models captured variability in sea cucumber distribution that would have been overlooked without a spatiotemporal approach. Although their predictions were similar, including within C. frondosa spatial reserves, the models provided different inferences regarding covariate effects. This suggests that while practitioners primarily interested in mapping species distributions need only apply the most familiar framework, those most concerned with identifying predictive environmental covariates may benefit from comparing the output from multiple approaches. Employing multiple approaches can also serve as a validation technique.
Quantifying the effect of water quality on eDNA degradation using microcosm and bioassay experiments
Authors: McKnight Emma G. W. , Shafer Aaron B. A. , Frost Paul C.
Published: April 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is often used to determine the presence and absence of species in a specific environment, be it air, water, or soil. Numerous environmental conditions are known to directly alter the rate at which eDNA degrades, including pH, temperature, and UV‐B light exposure. Beyond these, many limnological parameters have not been thoroughly examined for their ability to modify the degradation rate of eDNA. Here we used 20 mL microcosms with water collected from 12 lakes from the Kawartha Highlands near Peterborough Ontario, Canada, to study the decay rates of dissolved Yellow perch (Perca flavescens) eDNA. We measured and related rates of eDNA loss to multiple water quality parameters: total dissolved phosphorus, total dissolved nitrogen, size‐fractionated carbon, and chlorophyll‐a levels. Bioassays were also conducted to examine the bacterial role in eDNA degradation using three treatments under natural system conditions: non‐filtered, filtered (0.22 μm), and non‐filtered with added phosphorus (50 μg/L). Each microcosm exhibited a unique rate of degradation with eDNA half‐life (C0.5) ranging from 2.5 to 12.9 h. Chlorophyll‐a levels exhibited a positive linear relationship to the rate of degradation, while all other parameters showed no effect. The bioassays showed a general trend of the filtered treatments exhibiting the lowest rate of degradation, followed by the phosphorus treatments with the non‐filtered treatment containing bacteria exhibiting the highest rate of degradation. Overall, water with an increased level of chlorophyll‐a, in conjunction with elevated bacteria (i.e. non‐filtered bioassay) will exhibit a faster overall rate of eDNA degradation. These results show the necessity to individualize eDNA survey plans to the water body of interest and to account for environmental conditions relating to the microbial processing of eDNA.
Streamside detection of Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) environmental DNA with CRISPR technology
Authors: Blasko Tholen , Phelps Michael
Published: April 2024

There is a rapidly growing interest by resource managers to utilize environmental DNA technology (eDNA) as a tool to enhance current management efforts. However, the technology remains relatively specialized, since it requires specific expertise and equipment to perform. To begin to overcome some of the obstacles restricting the widespread, routine adoption of eDNA technology, we evaluated the use of CRISPR Cas12a detection technology for in‐the‐field eDNA detection using Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) as a target species. By targeting a highly variable region in the salmonid mitochondrial DNA D‐loop, we were able to demonstrate that CRISPR Cas12a detection technology is both sensitive and specific for Chinook salmon eDNA. Engineering of the technology to work in the field was accomplished by employing rapid eDNA purification and visual readout of results using visual lateral flow or fluorescent detection methods. The technology was piloted on the fall Chinook salmon run in the Snake River of Washington State, USA, and proved to be a viable approach for streamside eDNA monitoring. With the improvement of the technology, CRISPR eDNA detection methods hold great promise in expanding the reach of eDNA as a commonly used resource management tool.