bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Deep Fluid Injection in Induced Seismicity in the Delaware Basin, West Texas and Southeast New Mexico
Authors: Smye K. M. , Ge J. , Calle A. , Morris A. , Horne E. A. , Eastwood R. L. , Darvari R. , Nicot J. P. , Hennings P.
Published: June 2024

Rates of seismicity in the Delaware Basin of Texas and New Mexico increased from 10 earthquakes per year of local magnitude (ML) 3.0 and above in 2017 to more than 185 in 2022, coincident with increasing oil and gas production and wastewater re‐injection into strata shallow or deeper than producing intervals. Events of large magnitude—up to ML 5.4 to‐date—occur on faults extending into formations above the basement that have received more than four billion barrels of injection. Here, we demonstrate the link between injection geology, pore pressure evolution, fault stability, and induced seismicity in this region. We find that the injection targets are largely dolomitized platform carbonates with low (<5 vol.%) matrix porosity and fracture‐enhanced permeability with inherent heterogeneity in flow properties. A comprehensive, three‐dimensional geological model populated with reservoir properties is used for fluid flow modeling, with global calibration supplemented by dynamic injectivity data. Pore pressure changes with deep injection are up to 5 MPa from 1983 to 2023, increasing the native pore pressure state by 10% locally. Modeling results show that earthquakes occurring at distances of up to 30 km from deep injection have experienced small (<0.1 MPa) pore pressure increases, indicating that the faults hosting these earthquakes are highly sensitive to changes in effective stress and have lower frictional stability than the 0.6 generally assumed. These results serve as a critical step in understanding the stress changes that induce earthquakes in one of the most seismically active and geologically complex basins in the US.
What Causes Excess Deepening of the Sediment Mixed Layer in the Deep Ocean?
Authors: Zhu Zenghui , Yu Huaming , Bianchi Thomas S. , Lian Ergang , Burnett William C. , Paytan Adina , Guo Xiaoyi , Zhao Shibin , Zhuang Guangchao , Men Wu , Li Sanzhong , Yu Zhigang , Xu Bochao
Published: June 2024

The sediment mixed layer (SML) in the deep ocean is an important interface with a rich diversity of benthic organisms. With increasing ocean mineral exploration, and eventual mining, the effect of sediment mixing on deep ocean ecosystems has raised considerable concern. We evaluate the distribution patterns and driving factors of SML depth in deep ocean nodule fields using naturally occurring 210Pb–226Ra isotopes. Results show that average SML depth has increased in Mn‐nodule fields since the end of the last century. SML processes are associated with significant desorption of 226Ra from sediments, resulting in a departure from radioactive equilibrium. By estimating possible driving factors, we conclude that anthropogenic exploration activities, rather than natural physical and/or biological drivers, are the most likely mechanism for intensified sediment mixing. 210Pb–226Ra disequilibria may be a potential tracer for quantifying the impact of human exploration on deep‐ocean sediment mixing and associated biological and geochemical effects.
Hippocampal transcriptome-wide association study and pathway analysis of mitochondrial solute carriers in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tian Jing , Jia Kun , Wang Tienju , Guo Lan , Xuan Zhenyu , Michaelis Elias K. , Swerdlow Russell H. ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Du Heng
Published: June 2024

The etiopathogenesis of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as the result of the combination of the aging process, toxic proteins, brain dysmetabolism, and genetic risks. Although the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of AD has been well-appreciated, the interaction between mitochondrial function and genetic variability in promoting dementia is still poorly understood. In this study, by tissue-specific transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) and further meta-analysis, we examined the genetic association between mitochondrial solute carrier family (SLC25) genes and AD in three independent cohorts and identified three AD-susceptibility genes, including SLC25A10, SLC25A17, and SLC25A22. Integrative analysis using neuroimaging data and hippocampal TWAS-predicted gene expression of the three susceptibility genes showed an inverse correlation of SLC25A22 with hippocampal atrophy rate in AD patients, which outweighed the impacts of sex, age, and apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4). Furthermore, SLC25A22 downregulation demonstrated an association with AD onset, as compared with the other two transcriptome-wide significant genes. Pathway and network analysis related hippocampal SLC25A22 downregulation to defects in neuronal function and development, echoing the enrichment of SLC25A22 expression in human glutamatergic neurons. The most parsimonious interpretation of the results is that we have identified AD-susceptibility genes in the SLC25 family through the prediction of hippocampal gene expression. Moreover, our findings mechanistically yield insight into the mitochondrial cascade hypothesis of AD and pave the way for the future development of diagnostic tools for the early prevention of AD from a perspective of precision medicine by targeting the mitochondria-related genes.
Histone acetyltransferase Kat2a regulates ferroptosis via enhancing Tfrc and Hmox1 expression in diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhen Juan , Sheng Xia , Chen Tianlong , Yu Haitao
Published: June 2024

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a prevalent myocardial microvascular complication of the myocardium with a complex pathogenesis. Investigating the pathogenesis of DCM can significantly contribute to enhancing its prevention and treatment strategies. Our study revealed an upregulation of lysine acetyltransferase 2 A (Kat2a) expression in DCM, accompanied by a decrease in N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modified Kat2a mRNA levels. Our study revealed an upregulation of lysine acetyltransferase 2 A (Kat2a) expression in DCM, accompanied by a decrease in N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modified Kat2a mRNA levels. Functionally, inhibition of Kat2a effectively ameliorated high glucose-induced cardiomyocyte injury both in vitro and in vivo by suppressing ferroptosis. Mechanistically, Demethylase alkB homolog 5 (Alkbh5) was found to reduce m6A methylation levels on Kat2a mRNA, leading to its upregulation. YTH domain family 2 (Ythdf2) played a crucial role as an m6A reader protein mediating the degradation of Kat2a mRNA. Furthermore, Kat2a promoted ferroptosis by increasing Tfrc and Hmox1 expression via enhancing the enrichment of H3K27ac and H3K9ac on their promoter regions. In conclusion, our findings unveil a novel role for the Kat2a-ferroptosis axis in DCM pathogenesis, providing valuable insights for potential clinical interventions.
Necroptosis stimulates interferon-mediated protective anti-tumor immunity
Authors: Rucker A. Justin , Park Christa S. , Li Qi Jing , Moseman E. Ashley , Chan Francis Ka-Ming
Published: June 2024

Necroptosis is an inflammatory form of cell suicide that critically depends on the kinase activity of Receptor Interacting Protein Kinase 3 (RIPK3). Previous studies showed that immunization with necroptotic cells conferred protection against subsequent tumor challenge. Since RIPK3 can also promote apoptosis and NF-κB-dependent inflammation, it remains difficult to determine the contribution of necroptosis-associated release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in anti-tumor immunity. Here, we describe a system that allows us to selectively induce RIPK3-dependent necroptosis or apoptosis with minimal NF-κB-dependent inflammatory cytokine expression. In a syngeneic tumor challenge model, immunization with necroptotic cells conferred superior protection against subsequent tumor challenge. Surprisingly, this protective effect required CD4+ T cells rather than CD8+ T cells and is dependent on host type I interferon signaling. Our results provide evidence that death-dependent type I interferon production following necroptosis is sufficient to elicit protective anti-tumor immunity.
The transition to synchronization of networked systems
Authors: Bayani Atiyeh , Nazarimehr Fahimeh , Jafari Sajad , Kovalenko Kirill , Contreras-Aso Gonzalo , Alfaro-Bittner Karin , Sánchez-García Rubén J. , Boccaletti Stefano
Published: June 2024

We study the synchronization properties of a generic networked dynamical system, and show that, under a suitable approximation, the transition to synchronization can be predicted with the only help of eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the graph Laplacian matrix. The transition comes out to be made of a well defined sequence of events, each of which corresponds to a specific clustered state. The network’s nodes involved in each of the clusters can be identified, and the value of the coupling strength at which the events are taking place can be approximately ascertained. Finally, we present large-scale simulations which show the accuracy of the approximation made, and of our predictions in describing the synchronization transition of both synthetic and real-world large size networks, and we even report that the observed sequence of clusters is preserved in heterogeneous networks made of slightly non-identical systems.
A refined picture of the native amine dehydrogenase family revealed by extensive biodiversity screening
Authors: Elisée Eddy , Ducrot Laurine , Méheust Raphaël , Bastard Karine , Fossey-Jouenne Aurélie , Grogan Gideon , Pelletier Eric , Petit Jean-Louis , Stam Mark , de Berardinis Véronique , Zaparucha Anne , Vallenet David , Vergne-Vaxelaire Carine
Published: June 2024

Native amine dehydrogenases offer sustainable access to chiral amines, so the search for scaffolds capable of converting more diverse carbonyl compounds is required to reach the full potential of this alternative to conventional synthetic reductive aminations. Here we report a multidisciplinary strategy combining bioinformatics, chemoinformatics and biocatalysis to extensively screen billions of sequences in silico and to efficiently find native amine dehydrogenases features using computational approaches. In this way, we achieve a comprehensive overview of the initial native amine dehydrogenase family, extending it from 2,011 to 17,959 sequences, and identify native amine dehydrogenases with non-reported substrate spectra, including hindered carbonyls and ethyl ketones, and accepting methylamine and cyclopropylamine as amine donor. We also present preliminary model-based structural information to inform the design of potential (R)-selective amine dehydrogenases, as native amine dehydrogenases are mostly (S)-selective. This integrated strategy paves the way for expanding the resource of other enzyme families and in highlighting enzymes with original features.
Circulating cell-free RNA in blood as a host response biomarker for detection of tuberculosis
Authors: Chang Adrienne , Loy Conor J. , Eweis-LaBolle Daniel , Lenz Joan S. , Steadman Amy , Andgrama Alfred , Nhung Nguyen Viet , Yu Charles , Worodria William , Denkinger Claudia M. , Nahid Payam , Cattamanchi Adithya , De Vlaminck Iwijn
Published: June 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of death from an infectious disease worldwide, partly due to a lack of effective strategies to screen and triage individuals with potential TB. Whole blood RNA signatures have been tested as biomarkers for TB, but have failed to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) optimal target product profiles (TPP). Here, we use RNA sequencing and machine-learning to investigate the utility of plasma cell-free RNA (cfRNA) as a host-response biomarker for TB in cohorts from Uganda, Vietnam and Philippines. We report a 6-gene cfRNA signature, which differentiates TB-positive and TB-negative individuals with AUC = 0.95, 0.92, and 0.95 in test, training and validation, respectively. This signature meets WHO TPPs (sensitivity: 97.1% [95% CI: 80.9-100%], specificity: 85.2% [95% CI: 72.4-100%]) regardless of geographic location, sample collection method and HIV status. Overall, our results identify plasma cfRNA as a promising host response biomarker to diagnose TB.
Leveraging the histidine kinase-phosphatase duality to sculpt two-component signaling
Authors: Meier Stefanie S. M. , Multamäki Elina , Ranzani Américo T. , Takala Heikki , Möglich Andreas
Published: June 2024

Bacteria must constantly probe their environment for rapid adaptation, a crucial need most frequently served by two-component systems (TCS). As one component, sensor histidine kinases (SHK) control the phosphorylation of the second component, the response regulator (RR). Downstream responses hinge on RR phosphorylation and can be highly stringent, acute, and sensitive because SHKs commonly exert both kinase and phosphatase activity. With a bacteriophytochrome TCS as a paradigm, we here interrogate how this catalytic duality underlies signal responses. Derivative systems exhibit tenfold higher red-light sensitivity, owing to an altered kinase-phosphatase balance. Modifications of the linker intervening the SHK sensor and catalytic entities likewise tilt this balance and provide TCSs with inverted output that increases under red light. These TCSs expand synthetic biology and showcase how deliberate perturbations of the kinase-phosphatase duality unlock altered signal-response regimes. Arguably, these aspects equally pertain to the engineering and the natural evolution of TCSs.
Dynamin-dependent entry of Chlamydia trachomatis is sequentially regulated by the effectors TarP and TmeA
Authors: Romero Matthew D. , Carabeo Rey A.
Published: June 2024

Chlamydia invasion of epithelial cells is a pathogen-driven process involving two functionally distinct effectors – TarP and TmeA. They collaborate to promote robust actin dynamics at sites of entry. Here, we extend studies on the molecular mechanism of invasion by implicating the host GTPase dynamin 2 (Dyn2) in the completion of pathogen uptake. Importantly, Dyn2 function is modulated by TarP and TmeA at the levels of recruitment and activation through oligomerization, respectively. TarP-dependent recruitment requires phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and the small GTPase Rac1, while TmeA has a post-recruitment role related to Dyn2 oligomerization. This is based on the rescue of invasion duration and efficiency in the absence of TmeA by the Dyn2 oligomer-stabilizing small molecule activator Ryngo 1-23. Notably, Dyn2 also regulated turnover of TarP- and TmeA-associated actin networks, with disrupted Dyn2 function resulting in aberrant turnover dynamics, thus establishing the interdependent functional relationship between Dyn2 and the effectors TarP and TmeA.
Investigation of artificial cells containing the Par system for bacterial plasmid segregation and inheritance mimicry
Authors: Zhao Jingjing , Han Xiaojun
Published: June 2024

A crucial step in life processes is the transfer of accurate and correct genetic material to offspring. During the construction of autonomous artificial cells, a very important step is the inheritance of genetic information in divided artificial cells. The ParMRC system, as one of the most representative systems for DNA segregation in bacteria, can be purified and reconstituted into GUVs to form artificial cells. In this study, we demonstrate that the eGFP gene is segregated into two poles by a ParM filament with ParR as the intermediate linker to bind ParM and parC-eGFP DNA in artificial cells. After the ParM filament splits, the cells are externally induced to divide into two daughter cells that contain parC-eGFP DNA by osmotic pressure and laser irradiation. Using a PURE system, we translate eGFP DNA into enhanced green fluorescent proteins in daughter cells, and bacterial plasmid segregation and inheritance are successfully mimicked in artificial cells. Our results could lead to the construction of more sophisticated artificial cells that can reproduce with genetic information.
Developing a fuzzy bi-objective programming and MCDM model for bridge maintenance strategy optimization
Authors: Shojaei Fereydoon , Naserabadi Heidar Dashti , Taheri Amiri Mohammad Javad
Published: June 2024

Bridges serve as critical links in road networks, requiring continuous maintenance to ensure proper functionality throughout their lifespan. Given their pivotal role in the urban landscape, connecting various parts of a city, this research presents a multi-objective optimization model for the maintenance and repair of bridges in Babolsar, Iran. The model takes into account budget constraints and aims to minimize the total life cycle and user costs, encompassing traffic delays and vehicle expenses, while maximizing the reliability of the bridge network. Recognizing the inherent complexity of this problem, a multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm has been developed for an accurate solution. The study further conducts sensitivity analysis on the objective function concerning the available budget, evaluating key parameters such as hourly costs and the time value of vehicles. The results show that with an increase in the budget level, the number of repairs related to the most costly maintenance has significantly risen. In other words, as the budget expands, the model tends to favor repairs with higher costs because their impact on the bridge’s performance is more substantial.
Antiviral activity of pimecrolimus against dengue virus type 2 infection in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Kim Seong-Ryeol , Lee Jung-Min , Kang Hae Ji , Ryou Jungsang , Shim Sang-Mu
Published: June 2024

Dengue virus (DENV) infection is a public health concern in several countries and is associated with severe diseases, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. DENVs are transmitted to humans via the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, and no antiviral therapeutics are currently available. In this work, we aimed to identify antiviral drugs against DENV type 2 (DENV2) infections and selected pimecrolimus as a potential antiviral drug candidate. Pimecrolimus significantly inhibited DENV2-mediated cell death and replication in vitro. We also confirmed a decrease in the number of plaques formed as well as in the envelope protein levels of DENV2. The time-of-addition and course experiments revealed that pimecrolimus inhibited DENV2 infection during the early stages of the virus replication cycle. In an experimental mouse model, orally administered pimecrolimus alleviated body weight loss and lethality caused by DENV2 infection, which we used as readouts of the drug’s antiviral potency. Furthermore, pimecrolimus significantly inhibited the DENV2 load and ameliorated focal necrosis in the liver and spleen. Taken together, our in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that pimecrolimus is a promising antiviral drug candidate for the treatment of DENV2 infection.
The hidden oases: unveiling trophic dynamics in Namib's fog plant ecosystem
Authors: Gan Huei Ying , Hohberg Karin , Schneider Clément , Ebner Martin , Marais Eugene , Miranda Tatiana , Lehmitz Ricarda , Maggs-Kölling Gillian , Bocherens Hervé
Published: June 2024

The Namib Desert is a hyperarid coastal desert where fog is a major moisture source. We hypothesized that the fog-harvesting grassStipagrostis sabulicolaestablishes an important ecological niche, termed the "Fog-Plant-Oases" (FPOs), and serves as the primary carbon source for the invertebrate community. To determine this, we measured the natural variations of the stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) of invertebrates as well as that of plant biomass and belowground detritus and estimated the contributions of the fog plants in their diets. Our findings revealed a complex trophic structure and demonstrated thatS. sabulicolafuels carbon flow from lower to higher trophic levels in the aboveground food web. The distinct δ13C values of bacterial- and fungal-feeding nematodes indicated however the separation of the aboveground niche, which is primarily sustained byS. sabulicola, from the belowground niche, where wind-blown sediments may serve as the main energy source for the soil biota. Our findings further accentuate the critical role ofS. sabulicolaFPOs in establishing complex trophic dynamics and a distinctive food web within the hyperarid Namib dunes.
Vacancy formation in a 1D chain of dust particles in a DC discharge
Authors: Fedoseev A. V. , Litvinenko V. V. , Vasilieva E. V. , Vasiliev M. M. , Petrov O. F.
Published: June 2024

The paper presents the first experimental observation of an atypical phenomena during self-organization of dust particles into a one-dimensional chain structure levitated vertically in the plasma of a DC glow discharge. Using a laser, the third (middle) dust particle was removed from the chain of five particles so that the positions of the remaining particles did not significantly change, and a vacancy occurred in the place of the removed particle. This state of the chain turned out to be very stable, which is confirmed by the observation of the subsequent exchange of places of the fourth and the fifth particles of the chain upon the action of the laser on the forth particle. After the exchange process, vertical positions of all particles (first, second, fourth and fifth) in the chain remained almost the same as before the exchange, and the vacancy at the position of the third particle was preserved. The experimental data and the video record of the observed phenomena as well as the estimates of the plasma parameters are presented. An assumption has been made about the mechanism of the discovered phenomena that at present discharge conditions both the vacancy formation and the dust particles positions exchange are possible due to a strong ion wakes which are formed behind the upstream dust particles of the chain.
Alpha-Hederin induces incomplete autophagic injury in non-small cell lung cancer by interfering with the lysosomal acidification
Authors: Jin Feng , Jiang Xiaomin , Ni Xiaochen , Yu Shilong , Wu Feng , Shi Xinlin , Mao Defang , Wang Haibo , Shi Qingtong , Liu Yanqing , Xu Qin
Published: June 2024

Lung cancer is the most common oncological disease worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer accounting for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases. α-Hederin is a monodesmosidic triterpenoid saponin isolated from the leaves of Hedera helix L. or Nigella sativa and has been extensively studied for its antitumor activity against a variety of tumor cells. It has been suggested that α-Hederin is a potential regulator of autophagy and has high promise for application. However, the specific mechanism and characteristics of α-Hederin in regulating autophagy are not well understood. In this study, we confirmed the potential of α-Hederin application in lung cancer treatment and comprehensively explored the mechanism and characteristics of α-Hederin in regulating autophagy in lung cancer cells. Our results suggest that α-Hederin is an incomplete autophagy inducer that targets mTOR to activate the classical autophagic pathway, inhibits lysosomal acidification without significantly affecting the processes of autophagosome transport, lysosome biogenesis, autophagosome and lysosome fusion, and finally leads to impaired autophagic flux and triggers autophagic damage in NSCLC.
Low Gilbert damping and high perpendicular magnetic anisotropy in an Ir-coupled L10-FePd-based synthetic antiferromagnet
Authors: Peria William K. , Katz Michael B. , Wang Jian-Ping , Crowell Paul A. , Gopman Daniel B.
Published: June 2024

Thin ferromagnetic films possessing perpendicular magnetic anisotropy derived from the crystal lattice can deliver the requisite magnetocrystalline anisotropy density for thermally stable magnetic memory and logic devices at the single-digit-nm lateral size. Here, we demonstrate that an epitaxial synthetic antiferromagnet can be formed from L10 FePd, a candidate material with large magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy, through insertion of an ultrathin Ir spacer. Tuning of the Ir spacer thickness leads to synthetic antiferromagnetically coupled FePd layers, with an interlayer exchange field upwards of 0.6 T combined with a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy energy of 0.95 MJ/m3 and a low Gilbert damping of 0.01. Temperature-dependent ferromagnetic resonance measurements show that the Gilbert damping is mostly insensitive to temperature over a range of 20 K up to 300 K. In FePd|Ir|FePd trilayers with lower interlayer exchange coupling, optic and acoustic dynamic ferromagnetic resonance modes are explored as a function of temperature. The ability to engineer low damping and large interlayer exchange coupling in FePd|Ir|FePd synthetic antiferromagnets with high perpendicular magnetic anisotropy could prove useful for high performance spintronic devices.
Comparing two mucin secretagogues for the treatment of dry eye disease: a prospective randomized crossover trial
Authors: Jin Yeonwoo , Seo Kyoung Yul , Kim Sun Woong
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy and investigate patients’ preferences for two mucin secretagogues in the treatment of dry eye disease (DED). Thirty patients with DED were randomly treated with either 3% diquafosol or 2% rebamipide ophthalmic solution for 4 weeks, followed by an additional 4-week treatment using the other eye drop after a 2-week washout period. Objective and subjective assessments, including the corneal and conjunctival staining score, tear breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer 1 test, tear osmolarity, tear matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), lipid layer thickness (LLT) and ocular surface disease index (OSDI), were performed at baseline, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, and 10 weeks. Patient preferences were assessed based on four categories (comfort, efficacy, convenience, willingness to continue) using a questionnaire and the overall subjective satisfaction score for each drug was obtained at the end of the trial. In total, 28 eyes from 28 patients were included in the analysis. Both diquafosol and rebamipide significantly improved the OSDI (p = 0.033 and 0.034, respectively), TBUT (p < 0.001 and 0.026, respectively), and corneal (p < 0.001 and 0.001, respectively) and conjunctival (p = 0.017 and 0.042, respectively) staining after 4 weeks of treatment. An increase in Schirmer test scores was observed only after rebamipide treatment (p = 0.007). No significant changes were detected in tear osmolarity, MMP-9, and LLT following both treatments. The patients’ preference was slightly greater for diquafosol (46.4%) than rebamipide (36.7%), presumably due to rebamipide's bitter taste. The self-efficacy of both drugs and overall satisfaction scores were comparable. These findings indicate that two mucin secretagogues showed comparable effects in ameliorating symptoms and improving signs (TBUT, corneal and conjunctival staining) in patients with DED.
Simulating federated learning for steatosis detection using ultrasound images
Authors: Qi Yue , Vianna Pedro , Cadrin-Chênevert Alexandre , Blanchet Katleen , Montagnon Emmanuel , Belilovsky Eugene , Wolf Guy , Mullie Louis-Antoine , Cloutier Guy , Chassé Michaël , Tang An
Published: June 2024

We aimed to implement four data partitioning strategies evaluated with four federated learning (FL) algorithms and investigate the impact of data distribution on FL model performance in detecting steatosis using B-mode US images. A private dataset (153 patients; 1530 images) and a public dataset (55 patient; 550 images) were included in this retrospective study. The datasets contained patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) with biopsy-proven steatosis grades and control individuals without steatosis. We employed four data partitioning strategies to simulate FL scenarios and we assessed four FL algorithms. We investigated the impact of class imbalance and the mismatch between the global and local data distributions on the learning outcome. Classification performance was assessed with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) on a separate test set. AUCs were 0.93 (95% CI 0.92, 0.94) for source-based partitioning scenario with FedAvg, 0.90 (95% CI 0.89, 0.91) for a centralized model, and 0.83 (95% CI 0.81, 0.85) for a model trained in a single-center scenario. When data was perfectly balanced on the global level and each site had an identical data distribution, the model yielded an AUC of 0.90 (95% CI 0.88, 0.92). When each site contained data exclusively from one single class, irrespective of the global data distribution, the AUC fell in the range of 0.34–0.70. FL applied to B-mode US images provide performance comparable to a centralized model and higher than single-center scenario. Global data imbalance and local data heterogeneity influenced the learning outcome.
Differential radiological features of patients infected or colonised with slow-growing non-tuberculous mycobacteria
Authors: Biciusca Teodora , Zielbauer Ann-Sophie , Anton Thomas , Marschall Lisa , Idris Raja , Koepsell Julia , Juergens Lisa J. , Gotta Jennifer , Koch Vitali , Wichelhaus Thomas A. , Vogl Thomas J. , Vehreschild Maria J. G. T. , Martin Simon S. , Wetzstein Nils
Published: June 2024

Non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) is considered a growing health concern. The majority of NTM-PD cases in Europe are caused by slow-growing mycobacteria (SGM). However, distinct radiological features of different SGM remain largely uninvestigated. We applied a previously described radiological score to a patient cohort consisting of individuals with isolation of different SGM. Correlations between clinical data, species and computed tomography (CT) features were examined by logistic and linear regression analyses, as well as over the course of time. Overall, 135 pulmonary CT scans from 84 patients were included. The isolated NTM-species were mainly Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC, n = 49), as well as 35 patients with non-MAC-species. Patients with isolation of M. intracellulare had more extensive CT findings compared to all other SGM species (coefficient 3.53, 95% Cl − 0.37 to 7.52, p = 0.075) while patients meeting the ATS criteria and not undergoing therapy exhibited an increase in CT scores over time. This study provides insights into differential radiological features of slow-growing NTM. While M. intracellulare exhibited a tendency towards higher overall CT scores, the radiological features were similar across different SGM. The applied CT score might be a useful instrument for monitoring patients and could help to guide antimycobacterial therapy.
Effectiveness of novel facial stretching with structured exercise versus conventional exercise for Bell’s palsy: a single-blinded randomized clinical trial
Authors: Santiago Stephanie , Joshua Abraham M. , Nayak Akshatha , Misri Zulkifli , Pai Shivananda , Pai Rohit , Mithra Prasanna , Prabhakar Ashish John , Palaniswamy Vijayakumar
Published: June 2024

The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of a novel technique involving facial stretching of the unaffected side along with a structured exercise for the affected side on facial symmetry and facial functions as compared to conventional exercise. A hospital-based parallel-group randomized trial was completed among patients with acute Bell’s palsy in Mangalore, India. Participants were randomized to receive facial stretching and a structured exercise program (experimental group) or the conventional exercise regimen (conventional group). Primary outcomes were facial symmetry and voluntary movement; assessed by the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (SFGS). Both regimens were given for 3 weeks, with baseline, 10th day, and 20th day assessments. Out of 31 participants screened, 24 were eligible and 12 participants each were assigned to experimental and conventional groups. Change scores revealed greater improvement in the SFGS score (p = 0.002) for the experimental group participants. Facial stretching and structured exercise program exhibited promising results in enhancing facial symmetry and function in acute Bell’s palsy when compared to conventional exercise regimen.
Study of some graph theoretical parameters for the structures of anticancer drugs
Authors: Masmali Ibtisam , Azeem Muhammad , Kamran Jamil Muhammad , Ahmad Ali , Koam Ali N. A.
Published: June 2024

Eigenvalues have great importance in the field of mathematics, and their relevance extends beyond this area to include several other disciplines such as economics, chemistry, and numerous fields. According to our study, eigenvalues are utilized in chemistry to express a chemical compound’s numerous physical properties as well as its energy form. It is important to get a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationship underlying mathematics and chemistry. The anti-bonding phase is correlated with positive eigenvalues, whereas the bonding level is connected with negative eigenvalues. Additionally, the non-bonded level corresponds to eigenvalues of zero. This study focuses on the analysis of various structures of anticancer drugs, specifically examining their characteristic polynomials, eigenvalues of the adjacency matrix, matching number and nullity. Consequently, the selected structures of the aforementioned anticancer drugs exhibit stability since they are composed of closed-shell molecules, characterized by a nullity value of zero.
Prevalence of consumption of mechanically separated meat, consumer profile, nutrient intake and food choices among manufacturing workers in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Costa Raiane Medeiros , Oliveira Antonio Gouveia , de Souza Anissa Melo , Torres Karina Gomes , Pereira Gabriela Santana , Bezerra Ingrid Wilza Leal
Published: June 2024

Mechanically separated meat (MSM) is widely used in the food industry, however, there is a lack of studies on its consumption in populations. The objective of this study was to identify the frequency and amount of MSM consumption, factors associated with MSM consumption, nutrient intake and preferential choice of food groups among MSM consumers. This was an observational, cross-sectional prospective study based on a probability sample of manufacturing workers, conducted in Brazil. Logistic and linear multiple regression with robust standard errors were used. 921 workers from 33 manufacturing companies were studied, with an average age of 38.2 ± 10.7 years, 55.9% males. MSM products are consumed by 28.8% and represent in average 10% of total daily caloric intake, and 47.3% of the daily kcal from ultra-processed products. Younger age and greater waist circumference are associated with MSM consumption. Younger age and lesser educational level are associated with increased contribution of MSM to total daily kcal intake. MSM consumers have greater consumption of energy, fats, carbohydrates and sodium. Their dietary patterns are characterized by lower consumption of in natura and minimally processed foods, such as tubers and roots, fruits, white and red meat, and eggs and greater consumption of ultra-processed foods and beverages.
Statistical analysis in cellular systems for channel capacity improvement with dynamic pilots across different angles users
Authors: Ali Shahid , Yasen Nazhakaiti , Abdullaeva Barno Sayfutdinovna , Mostafa Almetwally M. , AlQahtani Nouf F.
Published: June 2024

Accurate channel state information (CSI) is crucial for optimizing wireless communication systems. In scenarios with varying user-to-base station angles, the angle-dependent coherence time impacts conventional pilot strategies. Due to small angles, the coherence time of the user decreases dramatically because of doppler shift, which causes an increase in the number of pilots. We introduces an innovative sub-block design approach for systems with different user angles. This method harmonizes coherence time of high and low-angle users, while maintaining a constant pilot count. This not only improves spectral efficiency but also ensures accurate channel estimation. Through simulations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in enhancing both spectral efficiency upt to $$10 \%$$

10
%

and CSI precision. This breakthrough contributes to the advancement of channel estimation techniques in scenarios with angle-dependent coherence time, offering practical benefits to wireless communication systems.
Prevalence of mental health symptoms in Austrian veterinarians and examination of influencing factors
Authors: Neubauer Viktoria , Dale Rachel , Probst Thomas , Pieh Christoph , Janowitz Katharina , Brühl Deianira , Humer Elke
Published: June 2024

Although previous studies point to a high mental health burden in veterinarians, little is known about mental health in Austrian veterinarians as well as potential underlying factors of poor mental health. We assessed mental health in Austrian veterinarians, compared it to the mental health of the general population, and explored potential risk factors for poor mental health in veterinarians. A total of n = 440 veterinarians (72.0% women; mean age: 44.53 ± 11.25 years) took part in an online survey in 2022 in which validated screening tools for symptoms of depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), sleep disorders (ISI-2), perceived stress (PSS-4), and alcohol abuse (CAGE) were applied. Multivariable logistic regression revealed higher adjusted odds for exceeding cut-offs for clinically relevant depressive, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms in veterinarians (1.35–2.70) compared to the general population. Mental health symptoms in veterinarians were associated with female gender, physical inactivity, higher smartphone usage, higher working hours, less professional experience, and working with pets. In conclusion, it appears that veterinarians encounter mental health challenges that are more pronounced than those experienced in the general population. The teaching of strategies to improve mental hygiene as part of the curricula of veterinary education and targeted training and mentoring of employers and their team should be implemented to improve mental health in the veterinary profession.
Preparation of a self-matting, anti-fingerprint and skin-tactile wood coating via biomimetic self-wrinkling patterns
Authors: Sun Yingchun , Liu Ru , Long Ling , Sun Yuhui
Published: June 2024

Inspired by natural wrinkled surfaces, artificial surfaces with biomimetic wrinkled structures have been widely used to improve optical properties, wettability, and antibacterial properties. However, the preparation of wrinkled structures has the disadvantages of long-time consumption and complex processes. Herein, we prepared a self-wrinkling polyurethane-acrylate (PUA) wood coating via biomimetic self-wrinkling patterns by using a light-emitting diode (LED)/excimer/mercury lamp curing system, which was capable of self-matting, anti-fingerprint and skin-tactile performance. By adjusting the irradiation intensity in the curing system, the wavelength (λ) and amplitude (A) of wrinkles on the coating surface were controlled to enhance the coating performance. After curing by the LED, excimer, and mercury lamps at energy intensities of 500, 30, and 300 mW/cm2 respectively, the self-wrinkling coating showed excellent surface performance. The self-wrinkling coating represented low gloss of 4.1 GU at 85°, high hardness of 4H. Interestingly, the coating surface had a high hydrophobicity (104.5°) and low surface energy (29–30 mN/m) and low coefficient (COF) of friction (0.1–0.2), which were consistent with those of the human skin surface. Besides, the wrinkled structure also improved the thermal stability of the coating samples. This study provided a promising technique for the mass production of self-wrinkling coatings that could be used in wood-based panels, furniture, and leather.
The optimization of the vault-predicting formula based on the anterior segment measurements from artemis insight 100
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhang Bo , Du Wenwen , Sun Zaohe , Fan Qi , Pang Chenjiu
Published: June 2024

To optimize and evaluate the accuracy of the vault-predicting formula generated from a very high-frequency digital ultrasound robotic scanner (Artemis Insight 100). The relationship between the achieved lens vault (LVa) at one month after intraocular collamer lens (ICL) implantation surgery and the predicted vault (LVp) was analyzed by a retrospective study, and an optimized formula was built up. Then, the accuracy of the optimized vault-predicting formula was evaluated in a prospective study by comparing the LVa and the predicted vault from the optimized formula (LVop). The retrospective study included 77 patients (133 eyes) while the prospective study enrolled 90 patients (170 eyes). The difference between LVp and LVa at one month after surgery was statistically significant (P < 0.05), and the linear regression analysis of LVa against LVp yielded a good fit (R2 = 0.68). The optimized vault-predicting formula was LVop (μm) = 1.21 × LVp (μm) + 124.73. In the validation study, the difference between LVop and LVa was not statistically significant (P = 0.10), and a good agreement between LVop and LVa was shown by Bland–Altman analysis. The optimized vault-predicting formula could predict the actual LV after ICL implantation surgery, help to select an appropriate ICL size and reduce the need for re-operation.
Synchronous analysis of acetaminophen, codeine, and caffeine in human fluids employing graphite screen-printed electrodes
Authors: Mahmoud Bahaa G. , Abualreish Mustafa. J. A. , Ismael Mohamed , Khairy Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Synchronous analysis of acetaminophen, codeine, and caffeine by screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) was explored. The SPEs showed high sensitivity as non-enzyme sensor, thereby obviating the necessity for laborious sample pre-treatment steps.
A rapid and convenient sample treatment method based on the dissolvable polyacrylamide gel for S-acylation proteomics
Authors: Chen Weiyu , He Yufei , Fang Caiyun , Lu Haojie
Published: June 2024

A rapid and convenient dissolvable gel-based one-tube sample treatment method was developed for S-acylation proteomics by combining a dissolvable tube gel and the classic ABE method to simplify operations and shorten the sample treatment duration.
Constructing tri-coordinated Al (AlIII) sites to boost complete propane oxidation of the Pt/Al2O3 catalyst
Authors: You Yang , Xu Aijie , Lv Yao , Yang Lide , Tang Xuan , Tang Jie , Guo Yanglong , Cui Yao , Zhan Wangcheng , Wang Li , Guo Yun , Dai Sheng
Published: June 2024

The tri-coordinated Al sites facilitate the dispersion and electron enrichment of supported Pt, leading the outstanding performance in complete C3H8 oxidation.
A self-healing Li-crosslinked elastomer promotes a highly robust and conductive solid–electrolyte interphase
Authors: Ju Zhijin , Tao Xinyong , Wang Yao , Yang Qing , Liu Tiefeng , Nai Jianwei , Zhang Wenkui , Chen Si , Liu Yujing , Tian He , Lu Jun
Published: June 2024

A unique Li+-crosslinked ionic conductive elastomer (ICE) was developed and the resultant ICE-SEI demonstrates remarkable elasticity, self-healing capability, and high ionic conductivity, thus realizing long-life Li metal batteries.
Pediococcus pentosaceus KF159 alleviates house dust mite-induced atopic dermatitis by promoting IL10 production and regulatory T cell induction
Authors: Eom Ji-Eun , Shin Dong-Uk , Kim Gun-Dong , Yoon Jung-Hoon , Shin Hee Soon , Lee So-Young
Published: June 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic immune disease that requires long-term management owing to its relative ease of recurrence.
Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) preserves intestinal barrier integrity and reduces oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells exposed to a proinflammatory stimulus
Authors: Marino Mirko , Rendine Marco , Venturi Samuele , Porrini Marisa , Gardana Claudio , Klimis-Zacas Dorothy , Riso Patrizia , Del Bo’ Cristian
Published: June 2024

Red raspberry enhanced intestinal barrier integrity, as evidenced by increased TEER and decreased FITC-D permeability. Further, red raspberry positively modulated the tight junction protein claudin-1 and reduced oxidative stress biomarkers 8-OHdG.
Biotin-functionalized nanoparticles: an overview of recent trends in cancer detection
Authors: Fathi-karkan Sonia , Sargazi Saman , Shojaei Shirin , Farasati Far Bahareh , Mirinejad Shekoufeh , Cordani Marco , Khosravi Arezoo , Zarrabi Ali , Ghavami Saeid
Published: June 2024

Biotin-functionalized nanoparticles enhance cancer detection by targeting biotin receptors, which are overexpressed on cancer cells. This targeted approach improves imaging accuracy and efficacy in identifying cancerous tissues.
Orchestration of ferro- and anti-ferromagnetic ordering in gold nanoclusters
Authors: Mehla Nisha , Mukhopadhyaya Aritra , Ali Shahjad , Ali Md. Ehesan
Published: June 2024

The unpaired electron in the odd gold clusters is solely responsible for the magnetic behaviour of the Au nano-clusters. These magnetic clusters can be ordered ferro- and antiferro-magnetically through an organic spacer.
Copper-catalyzed syn-hydroformylation of alkynes with silanes and N,N-dimethylformamide dimethylacetal
Authors: Huai Menglin , Chen Long , Dong Wei , Wang Weijie , Qin Zhen , Dai Kaifeng , Li Yuan , Zhang Xiulian , Tao Chuanzhou
Published: June 2024

A copper-catalyzed syn-hydrocarbonization of internal alkynes with N,N-dimethylformamide dimethylacetal and silanes has been disclosed that offers an efficient and expedient access to (E)-α,β-unsaturated aldehydes.
Repurposed organoselenium tethered amidic acids as apoptosis inducers in melanoma cancer via P53, BAX, caspases-3, 6, 8, 9, BCL-2, MMP2, and MMP9 modulations
Authors: Shaaban Saad , Althikrallah Hanan A. , Negm Amr , Abo Elmaaty Ayman , Al-Karmalawy Ahmed A.
Published: June 2024

Repurposed organoselenium tethered amidic acids as apoptosis inducers in melanoma.
Liquid-assisted grinding enables a direct mechanochemical functionalization of polystyrene waste
Authors: Skala Morgan E. , Zeitler Sarah M. , Golder Matthew R.
Published: June 2024

As a step towards plastics remediation, exogenous additives enable the mechanochemical functionalization of post-consumer polystyrene waste without significant chain scission.
The peak viscosity of decaying foam with natural drainage and coarsening
Authors: Yu Wei , Lo Jack H. Y.
Published: June 2024

We perform fast and in situ measurements on decaying foam immediately after its generation. The foam viscosity reaches its maximum at the crossover point between the drainage-dominated stage and the coarsening-dominated stage.
All-atom molecular dynamics simulation of solvent diffusion in an unentangled polystyrene film
Authors: Tamnanloo Javad , Tsige Mesfin
Published: June 2024

Using an innovative molecular dynamics approach, we observed the case II diffusion behavior of toluene, acetone, and their mixture diffusing within a glassy polystyrene film.
Construction of a series of insensitive energetic materials starting from the condensation reaction of 3-amino-4-cyanofurazan
Authors: Xu Yuangang , Ding Lujia , Li Dongxue , Xu Ze , Wang Pengcheng , Lin Qiuhan , Lu Ming
Published: June 2024

A library of energetic materials synthesized from 3-amino-4-cyanofurazan has been disclosed, in which compound 7 is a unique example of an energetic compound with fluorescence, which opens the door for many new applications.
Spacer-engineering construction of continuous proton transport networks for cardo poly(biphenyl indole) high-temperature proton exchange membranes
Authors: Chen Sifan , Ma Zhuang , Zhang Jialin , Niu Jianchun , Zhang Shuomeng , Zhang Qinghua , Chen Shiyuan , Lu Shanfu , Wang Miao , He Qinggang
Published: June 2024

Poly(biphenyl indole)-based membranes are designed for investigating the effect of side-chain engineering on the mechanism of manipulating proton transport.
Porous Cu/C nanofibers promote electrochemical CO2-to-ethylene conversion via high CO2 availability
Authors: Bae Daewon , Lee Taemin , Kwon Woosuck , Oh Sang-Ho , Nam Dae-Hyun
Published: June 2024

C-shell-augmented porous Cu/CNFs can enhance CO2 availability for efficient C2H4 production via promoted CO2 mass transport and CO2 adsorption.
Precise chemical regulation of polar groups to enhance the charge transfer density of cellulosic triboelectric textiles
Authors: Ma Yuxin , Wei Chuanhui , Wang Zixun , Lv Tianmei , Tan Yingxue , He Jianlei , Peng Xiao , Dong Kai
Published: June 2024

Through precise chemical grafting methods, a cellulosic triboelectric textile with high charge transfer ability is developed with electron-donating aminosilane-grafted fabric and electron-withdrawing fluorosilane-grafted fabric as the contact layers.