bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Associations Between Food Insecurity and Suicidal Ideation Among Adults Aged ≥65 in the Korean Welfare Panel Study
Authors: Lee Jeongyoon , Pak Tae-Young
Published: June 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to explore longitudinal associations between food insecurity and suicidal ideation, and the moderating roles of intervention programs.

Methods: Data were derived from the 2012–2019 waves of the Korean Welfare Panel Study. Participants aged ≥65 at baseline (n = 4,425) and their annual follow-up measurements for a mean of 6.58 years were included. Conditional fixed effects logistic regressions were used to test 1) associations between food insecurity and the onset of suicidal ideation; 2); whether associations were attenuated by food assistance and income support programs.

Results: Food insecurity was associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation in the full sample (OR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.37–2.29), among women (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.24–2.26) and men (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.25–3.40). The association between food insecurity and suicidal ideation was attenuated by participation in home-delivered meal services (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.21–0.88).

Conclusion: Food insecure older adults were more likely to consider committing suicide than their food secure counterparts. Food assistance through home-delivered meal services, but not other intervention programs, could weaken this link.
“It’s Like Living with a Sassy Teenager!”: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Owners’ Comments about Dogs between the Ages of 12 Weeks and 2 Years
Authors: Owczarczak-Garstecka Sara C. , Da Costa Rosa E. P. , Harvey Naomi D. , Giragosian Kassandra , Kinsman Rachel H. , Casey Rachel A. , Tasker Séverine , Murray Jane K.
Published: June 2023

Owners’ understanding of dog behaviour influences dog welfare. This study aimed to investigate owners’ experiences of living with dogs and perceptions of dog behaviour/behaviour change. Data from an ongoing UK/ROI longitudinal study of dogs were used. Open-ended survey data (n = 3577 comments, n = 1808 dogs) when dogs were 12/16 weeks (data combined), 6, 12, 18 and 24 months were analysed to cover the dog’s puppyhood/adolescence. To evaluate the usefulness of open-ended survey questions, both quantitative textual and qualitative thematic analyses were employed. Textual analysis identified an overall positive sentiment at all timepoints; the proportion of positive: negative sentiments increased with the dog’s age. Words related to ‘love’ were the most frequent descriptors at all but the first timepoint, when ‘bite’ was the most frequent descriptor. Qualitative analysis helped to identify that owners attribute dog behaviour to ‘Dog’s biology’, ‘Personality/deliberate action’ and ‘External influences’. Analysis of open-ended survey responses helped to identify changes in perception over time. When dogs were young, owners described problematic behaviours as ‘mischievous’, unintentional and context-specific. Similar behaviours shown by older dogs were seen as ‘deliberate’. Both positive and negative experiences of dog ownership were identified. However, as not all respondents answered open-ended questions, the generalisability of our findings is limited.
Occurrence and Molecular Characteristics of Microsporidia in Captive Red Pandas (Ailurus fulgens) in China
Authors: Yang Jinpeng , Zeng Yangyang , Li Caiwu , Liu Songrui , Meng Wanyu , Zhang Wenqing , He Ming , Wang Liqin , Zuo Zhili , Yue Chanjuan , Li Desheng , Peng Guangneng
Published: June 2023

Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp. are microsporidian pathogens with zoonotic potential that pose significant public health concerns. To ascertain the occurrence and genotypes of E. bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp., we used nested PCR to amplify the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene and DNA sequencing to analyze 198 fecal samples from red pandas from 6 zoos in China. The total rate of microsporidial infection was 15.7% (31/198), with 12.1% (24/198), 1.0% (2/198), 2.0% (4/198) and 1.0% (2/198) for infection rate of E. bieneusi, Encephalitozoon cuniculi, Encephalitozoon intestinalis and Encephalitozoon hellem, respectively. One red panda was detected positive for a mixed infection (E. bieneusi and E. intestinalis). Red pandas living in semi-free conditions are more likely to be infected with microsporidia (χ2 = 6.212, df = 1, p < 0.05). Three known (SC02, D, and PL2) and one novel (SCR1) genotypes of E. bieneusi were found. Three genotypes of E. bieneusi (SC02, D, SCR1) were grouped into group 1 with public health importance, while genotype PL2 formed a separate clade associated with group 2. These findings suggest that red pandas may serve as a host reservoir for zoonotic microsporidia, potentially allowing transmission from red pandas to humans and other animals.
Effects of Amount and Profile of Amino Acids Supply on Lactation Performance, Mammary Gland Metabolism, and Nitrogen Efficiency in Holstein Dairy Cows
Authors: Danes Marina A. C. , Paula Eduardo M. , Parys Claudia , Souza Gleiciele M. , Rezende João Pedro A. , Broderick Glen A. , Wattiaux Michel A.
Published: June 2023

To evaluate the effects of amount and profile of amino acid (AA) on milk protein yield (MPY), mammary metabolism, and efficiency of nitrogen use (ENU), ten cows were used in 5 × 5 replicated Latin squares and fed a positive control (16.1% crude protein-CP) or two lower CP diets (14.6 and 13.2%) with or without essential AA (EAA) infusion. The EAA solutions provided predicted limiting EAA in each treatment and were continuously infused into the abomasum of the cows. Milk production and MPY were not affected by treatment (mean 35.4 kg/d and 1.03 kg/d, respectively). Efficiency of nitrogen utilization was increased as dietary CP decreased but was not affected by EAA infusion (p < 0.01). Energy-corrected milk production was increased by EAA infusion into 13.2% CP, but not into 14.6% CP diet (p = 0.09), reaching the positive control value. Infusions increased mammary affinity for non-infused EAA (Ile, Phe, Thr, and Trp), allowing the same MPY despite lower arterial concentrations of these AA. Higher arterial concentrations of infused EAA did not increase their mammary uptake and MPY (p = 0.40; p = 0.85). Mammary metabolism did not fully explain changes in N efficiency, suggesting that it might be driven by less extramammary catabolism as AA supply was reduced.
Comparison of Clouds and Cloud Feedback between AMIP5 and AMIP6
Authors: Zhang Yuanchong , Jin Zhonghai , Ottaviani Matteo
Published: June 2023

We examine the changes in clouds and cloud feedback between Phase 5 (AMIP5) and Phase 6 (AMIP6) of the Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project. Each model is perturbed by uniformly increasing the sea surface temperature by 4 K. The simulated cloud fraction, the perturbed states and cloud radiative kernels are used to derive cloud feedback in the shortwave (SW), longwave (LW) and their sum (Net). Compared to AMIP5, the cloud fraction in AMIP6 increases by 9.1%, while the perturbation leads to a 0.25% decrease. The Net cloud feedback at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) is almost double (174%). Statistical tests support that this change is mainly due to an increase in the surface SW cloud feedback caused by optically thick, middle and low clouds. The contribution of the atmospheric Net component (12%) stems from the increase in the atmospheric LW cloud feedback, likely to play a role in weakening (strengthening) the northward (southward) meridional atmospheric energy transport, while the opposite is true for the surface LW and Net cloud feedback in the meridional oceanic energy transport. The substantial increase in cloud feedback at the TOA primarily contributes to the higher climate sensitivity. The cloud feedback spread in AMIP6 is comparable to that in AMIP5.
Inequalities for the Windowed Linear Canonical Transform of Complex Functions
Authors: Li Zhen-Wei , Gao Wen-Biao
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we generalize the N-dimensional Heisenberg’s inequalities for the windowed linear canonical transform (WLCT) of a complex function. Firstly, the definition for N-dimensional WLCT of a complex function is given. In addition, the N-dimensional Heisenberg’s inequality for the linear canonical transform (LCT) is derived. It shows that the lower bound is related to the covariance and can be achieved by a complex chirp function with a Gaussian function. Finally, the N-dimensional Heisenberg’s inequality for the WLCT is exploited. In special cases, its corollary can be obtained.
Short-Term Effects of Competitive Video Games on Aggression: An Event-Related Potential Study
Authors: Sun Jiayi , Hao Junyi , Liu Yanling
Published: June 2023

Previous research on factors affecting video game player aggression has mainly reflected on the violent content of video games; in recent years, some researchers have focused on competitive factors in video games. However, little research has examined the sole impacts of competitive factors in video games without violent content on aggression, and the neurological processes of these effects are still unknown. The present study was the first to examine the electrophysiological characteristics of short-term competitive video game exposure and aggression. Thirty-five participants played a video game in either competitive or solo mode for 15 min, followed by an ERP experiment based on the oddball paradigm and the hot sauce paradigm to measure aggressive behavior. Results showed that playing competitive game mode was associated with faster judgment of aggressive words, larger P300 amplitudes, and selection of more chili powder than in solo mode. Mediation analysis further revealed that the P300 amplitude evoked by the aggressive words partially mediated the relationship between competitive game exposure and aggressive behavior. These findings support the general aggression model. However, this study has limitations, such as a single form of competitive game examined and single blindness, which need further improvement in future studies.
Gene Expression Analysis in Postmortem Brains from Individuals Who Died by Suicide: A Systematic Review
Authors: González-Castro Thelma Beatriz , Genis-Mendoza Alma Delia , López-Narváez María Lilia , Juárez-Rojop Isela Esther , Ramos-Méndez Miguel Angel , Tovilla-Zárate Carlos Alfonso , Nicolini Humberto
Published: June 2023

Around the world, more the 700,000 individuals die by suicide every year. It is necessary to understand the mechanisms associated with suicidal behavior. Recently, an increase in gene expression studies has been in development. Through a systematic review, we aimed to find a candidate gene in gene expression studies on postmortem brains of suicide completers. Databases were systematically searched for published studies. We performed an online search using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases to search studies up until May 2023. The terms included were “gene expression”, “expressed genes”, “microarray”, “qRT–PCR”, “brain samples” and “suicide”. Our systematic review included 59 studies covering the analysis of 1450 brain tissues from individuals who died by suicide. The majority of gene expression profiles were obtained of the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, ventral prefrontal cortex and orbital frontal cortex area. The most studied mRNAs came of genes in glutamate, γ-amino-butyric acid and polyamine systems. mRNAs of genes in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), HPA axis and chemokine family were also studied. On the other hand, psychiatric comorbidities indicate that suicide by violent death can alter the profile of mRNA expression.
The Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation of Immature Cells of the Nervous System Exerts Distinct Effects on Mitochondria, Mitophagy, and Autophagy, Depending on the Cells’ Differentiation Stage
Authors: Jagečić Denis , Petrović Dražen Juraj , Šimunić Iva , Isaković Jasmina , Mitrečić Dinko
Published: June 2023

Perinatal brain damage, one of the most common causes of lifelong impairment, is predominantly caused by a lack of oxygen and glucose during early development. These conditions, in turn, affect cells of the nervous tissue through various stages of their maturation. To quantify the influence of these factors on cell differentiation and mitochondrial parameters, we exposed neural cell precursors to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) during three stages of their differentiation: day 1, day 7, and day 14 (D1, D7, and D14, respectively). The obtained results show that OGD slows down cellular differentiation and causes cell death. Regardless of the level of cell maturity, the overall area of the mitochondria, their length, and the branching of their filaments decreased uniformly when exposed to OGD-related stress. Moreover, the cells in all stages of differentiation exhibited an increase in ROS production, hyperpolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, and autophagy. Interestingly, day 7 was the only stage in which a significant increase in mitochondrial fission, along with measurable instances of mitophagy, were detected. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that, apart from common reactions to a sudden lack of oxygen and glucose, cells in specific stages of neural differentiation can also exhibit increased preferences for mitochondrial fission and mitophagy. Such findings could play a role in guiding the future development of novel therapeutic approaches targeting perinatal brain damage during specific stages of nervous system development.
Sense of Relational Entitlement and Couple Outcomes: The Mediating Role of Couple Negotiation Tactics
Authors: Candel Octav-Sorin
Published: June 2023

Previous research shows a link between the sense of relational entitlement and various couple outcomes. However, the mechanisms linking these variables are less discussed. With this study, the aim was to test the associations between individuals’ excessive and restricted sense of relational entitlement and their levels of couple satisfaction and conflict. In addition, it was tested whether the use of different negotiation tactics (cooperative and competitive) mediated the links. Six hundred and eighty-seven adults (55.2% women) participated in this study. Mediation analyses showed that a restricted sense of relational entitlement is associated with couple satisfaction and conflict through higher competitive negotiation use. Additionally, an excessive sense of relational entitlement is linked with couple satisfaction and conflict through lower cooperative negotiation use. This study has important implications for couples therapy addressing satisfaction issues, showing why and when educating couple interactions, especially those regarding negotiation, can improve relational functioning. Additionally, one’s relational well-being is strongly related to one’s mental health, and the applicability of the findings can be extended to all outcomes of the therapeutic process.
RANKL Inhibition Reduces Cardiac Hypertrophy in mdx Mice and Possibly in Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Marcadet Laetitia , Juracic Emma Sara , Khan Nasrin , Bouredji Zineb , Yagita Hideo , Ward Leanne M. , Tupling A. Russell , Argaw Anteneh , Frenette Jérôme
Published: June 2023

Cardiomyopathy has become one of the leading causes of death in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We recently reported that the inhibition of the interaction between the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) significantly improves muscle and bone functions in dystrophin-deficient mdx mice. RANKL and RANK are also expressed in cardiac muscle. Here, we investigate whether anti-RANKL treatment prevents cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction in dystrophic mdx mice. Anti-RANKL treatment significantly reduced LV hypertrophy and heart mass, and maintained cardiac function in mdx mice. Anti-RANKL treatment also inhibited NFκB and PI3K, two mediators implicated in cardiac hypertrophy. Furthermore, anti-RANKL treatment increased SERCA activity and the expression of RyR, FKBP12, and SERCA2a, leading possibly to an improved Ca2+ homeostasis in dystrophic hearts. Interestingly, preliminary post hoc analyses suggest that denosumab, a human anti-RANKL, reduced left ventricular hypertrophy in two patients with DMD. Taken together, our results indicate that anti-RANKL treatment prevents the worsening of cardiac hypertrophy in mdx mice and could potentially maintain cardiac function in teenage or adult patients with DMD.
Role of A-Kinase Anchoring Protein 1 in Retinal Ganglion Cells: Neurodegeneration and Neuroprotection
Authors: Bastola Tonking , Perkins Guy A. , Kim Keun-Young , Choi Seunghwan , Kwon Jin-Woo , Shen Ziyao , Strack Stefan , Ju Won-Kyu
Published: June 2023

A-Kinase anchoring protein 1 (AKAP1) is a multifunctional mitochondrial scaffold protein that regulates mitochondrial dynamics, bioenergetics, and calcium homeostasis by anchoring several proteins, including protein kinase A, to the outer mitochondrial membrane. Glaucoma is a complex, multifactorial disease characterized by a slow and progressive degeneration of the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), ultimately resulting in vision loss. Impairment of the mitochondrial network and function is linked to glaucomatous neurodegeneration. Loss of AKAP1 induces dynamin-related protein 1 dephosphorylation-mediated mitochondrial fragmentation and loss of RGCs. Elevated intraocular pressure triggers a significant reduction in AKAP1 protein expression in the glaucomatous retina. Amplification of AKAP1 expression protects RGCs from oxidative stress. Hence, modulation of AKAP1 could be considered a potential therapeutic target for neuroprotective intervention in glaucoma and other mitochondria-associated optic neuropathies. This review covers the current research on the role of AKAP1 in the maintenance of mitochondrial dynamics, bioenergetics, and mitophagy in RGCs and provides a scientific basis to identify and develop new therapeutic strategies that could protect RGCs and their axons in glaucoma.
A Rapid Alkalinization Factor-like Peptide EaF82 Impairs Tapetum Degeneration during Pollen Development through Induced ATP Deficiency
Authors: Hung Chiu-Yueh , Kittur Farooqahmed S. , Wharton Keely N. , Umstead Makendra L. , Burwell D’Shawna B. , Thomas Martinique , Qi Qi , Zhang Jianhui , Oldham Carla E. , Burkey Kent O. , Chen Jianjun , Xie Jiahua
Published: June 2023

In plants, the timely degeneration of tapetal cells is essential for providing nutrients and other substances to support pollen development. Rapid alkalinization factors (RALFs) are small, cysteine-rich peptides known to be involved in various aspects of plant development and growth, as well as defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the functions of most of them remain unknown, while no RALF has been reported to involve tapetum degeneration. In this study, we demonstrated that a novel cysteine-rich peptide, EaF82, isolated from shy-flowering ‘Golden Pothos’ (Epipremnum aureum) plants, is a RALF-like peptide and displays alkalinizing activity. Its heterologous expression in Arabidopsis delayed tapetum degeneration and reduced pollen production and seed yields. RNAseq, RT-qPCR, and biochemical analyses showed that overexpression of EaF82 downregulated a group of genes involved in pH changes, cell wall modifications, tapetum degeneration, and pollen maturation, as well as seven endogenous Arabidopsis RALF genes, and decreased proteasome activity and ATP levels. Yeast two-hybrid screening identified AKIN10, a subunit of energy-sensing SnRK1 kinase, as its interacting partner. Our study reveals a possible regulatory role for RALF peptide in tapetum degeneration and suggests that EaF82 action may be mediated through AKIN10 leading to the alteration of transcriptome and energy metabolism, thereby causing ATP deficiency and impairing pollen development.
High-Capacitance Manganese Dioxide Oxide/Carbon Nanotube/Carbon Felt as a Bioanode for Enhanced Energy Output in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Hu Guangxu , Zheng Dayu , Dong Jing , Wang Jing
Published: June 2023

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology can potentially recover bioelectricity from wastewater. However, its practical applications have been limited because of its low power density and since the energy generated from an MFC cannot be stored. In this study, manganese dioxide (MnO2) coupled with carbon nanotubes (CNT) was chosen to in situ modify carbon felt (CF) as a capacitive bioanode (CF/CNT/MnO2) to improve the power generation and energy storage of MFCs. The maximum power density of the MFC with the MnO2-CNT-modified bioanode reached 3471.6 mW m3, which was 1.96 times higher than that of the CF/CNT anode (1772.6 mW m−3). During the experiment of charging for 30 min and discharging for 30 min, the MFC with a capacitive bioanode had a total charge of 8777.1 C m−2, 2.74 times higher than that of the CF/CNT anode. The excellent electricity-producing and energy storage performance of the MFC equipped with the CF/CNT/MnO2 anode is attributed to the composite materials, which can be due to their better biocompatibility, large capacitance, and high specific surface area. This study provides a new way to improve the performance of electricity generation and energy storage of MFCs.
Design and Development of 3D-Printed Personalized Femoral Prosthesis Technologies
Authors: Zhang Guoqing , Li Junxin , Zeng Huimin , Li Wan , Wang Qiang , Huang Aibing
Published: June 2023

The femur supports the entire body weight, and any damage or necrosis to this bone can significantly impair normal walking. Therefore, repairing the femur is essential to restoring its function. However, due to variations in human bone structure, standardized prostheses often deliver poor repair outcomes. We used the medical three-dimensional (3D) auxiliary software Mimics to design personalized femoral prostheses to address this issue. The femoral prosthesis filler was porous, and all aspects of the prosthesis were thoroughly studied and analyzed before direct molding using 3D printing technology. The personalized femoral prosthesis filler and bone plate designed using 3D printing technology have positive effects, and the matching between the femoral prosthesis, bone plate, and filler is satisfactory. The pore structure of the 3D-printed femoral prosthesis filler and the bone plate is clear and of high quality, which shortens the research and development cycle and reduces costs, providing a foundation for the direct application of 3D-printed personalized prostheses.
Research Progress and Development Prospects of Enhanced GaN HEMTs
Authors: Han Lili , Tang Xiansheng , Wang Zhaowei , Gong Weihua , Zhai Ruizhan , Jia Zhongqing , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2023

With the development of energy efficiency technologies such as 5G communication and electric vehicles, Si-based GaN microelectronics has entered a stage of rapid industrialization. As a new generation of microwave and millimeter wave devices, High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) show great advantages in frequency, gain, and noise performance. With the continuous advancement of material growth technology, the epitaxial growth of semiconductor heterojunction can accurately control doping level, material thickness, and alloy composition. Consequently, HEMTs have been greatly improved from material structure to device structure. Device performance has also been significantly improved. In this paper, we briefly describe MOCVD growth technology and research progress of GaN HEMT epitaxial films, examine and compare the “state of the art” of enhanced HEMT devices, analyze the reliability and CMOS compatibility of GaN devices, and look to the future directions of possible development.
Ensemble Deep Learning Derived from Transfer Learning for Classification of COVID-19 Patients on Hybrid Deep-Learning-Based Lung Segmentation: A Data Augmentation and Balancing Framework
Authors: Dubey Arun Kumar , Chabert Gian Luca , Carriero Alessandro , Pasche Alessio , Danna Pietro S. C. , Agarwal Sushant , Mohanty Lopamudra , Nillmani  , Sharma Neeraj , Yadav Sarita , Jain Achin , Kumar Ashish , Kalra Mannudeep K. , Sobel David W. , Laird John R. , Singh Inder M. , Singh Narpinder , Tsoulfas George , Fouda Mostafa M. , Alizad Azra , Kitas George D. , Khanna Narendra N. , Viskovic Klaudija , Kukuljan Melita , Al-Maini Mustafa , El-Baz Ayman , Saba Luca , Suri Jasjit S.
Published: June 2023

Background and motivation: Lung computed tomography (CT) techniques are high-resolution and are well adopted in the intensive care unit (ICU) for COVID-19 disease control classification. Most artificial intelligence (AI) systems do not undergo generalization and are typically overfitted. Such trained AI systems are not practical for clinical settings and therefore do not give accurate results when executed on unseen data sets. We hypothesize that ensemble deep learning (EDL) is superior to deep transfer learning (TL) in both non-augmented and augmented frameworks. Methodology: The system consists of a cascade of quality control, ResNet–UNet-based hybrid deep learning for lung segmentation, and seven models using TL-based classification followed by five types of EDL’s. To prove our hypothesis, five different kinds of data combinations (DC) were designed using a combination of two multicenter cohorts—Croatia (80 COVID) and Italy (72 COVID and 30 controls)—leading to 12,000 CT slices. As part of generalization, the system was tested on unseen data and statistically tested for reliability/stability. Results: Using the K5 (80:20) cross-validation protocol on the balanced and augmented dataset, the five DC datasets improved TL mean accuracy by 3.32%, 6.56%, 12.96%, 47.1%, and 2.78%, respectively. The five EDL systems showed improvements in accuracy of 2.12%, 5.78%, 6.72%, 32.05%, and 2.40%, thus validating our hypothesis. All statistical tests proved positive for reliability and stability. Conclusion: EDL showed superior performance to TL systems for both (a) unbalanced and unaugmented and (b) balanced and augmented datasets for both (i) seen and (ii) unseen paradigms, validating both our hypotheses.
Decomposition Analysis and Trend Prediction of Energy-Consumption CO2 Emissions in China’s Yangtze River Delta Region
Authors: Yuan Yue , Suk Sunhee
Published: June 2023

This study calculated CO2 emissions related to the consumption of primary energy by five sectors in the Yangtze River Delta region over 2000 to 2019. The Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) decomposition method was used to establish the factor decomposition model of CO2 emissions change. The LMDI model was modified to assess the impact of five influencing factors, namely energy structure, energy intensity, industrial structure, economic output, and population size, on CO2 emissions in the Yangtze River Delta region over the study period. The empirical results show that economic output has the largest positive effect on the growth in CO2 emissions. Population size is the second most important factor promoting the growth in CO2 emissions. Energy intensity is the most inhibitory factor to restrain CO2 emissions, with a significant negative effect. Energy structure and industrial structure contribute insignificantly to CO2 emissions. Using data on CO2 emissions in the Yangtze River Delta region from 2000 to 2019, the GM (1, 1) model was applied for future forecasts of primary energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Specific policy suggestions to mitigate CO2 emissions in Yangtze River Delta region are provided.
The Potential of Uncoated Norway Spruce as a Façade Material—A Review
Authors: Svensson Meulmann Sebastian , Sjökvist Tinh
Published: June 2023

This article reviews the potential of uncoated Norway spruce as a façade material. Aspects such as natural durability, permeability properties, impact of density, and product dimensions are discussed. The review concludes that a careful design of the product is needed due to the intrinsic properties of the spruce species. Natural photodegradation will occur but has been proven not to impact spruce to a greater degree than other species. The optimal choice for a Norway spruce panel would be made of heartwood without juvenile tissues, with a vertical growth ring orientation. The selection of density is, however, unclear since low density reduces crack formation but could facilitate favourable levels of moisture for fungal colonisation. Additionally, the width of the growth ring has an unpredictable effect on the formation of cracks when the effect of early and latewood interaction cooperates with the effect of density.
Deep Clinical Phenotyping of Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders Using Data-Driven Methods: Marching towards Precision Psychiatry
Authors: Habtewold Tesfa Dejenie , Hao Jiasi , Liemburg Edith J. , Baştürk Nalan , Bruggeman Richard , Alizadeh Behrooz Z.
Published: June 2023

Heterogeneity is the main challenge in the traditional classification of mental disorders, including schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD). This can be partly attributed to the absence of objective diagnostic criteria and the multidimensional nature of symptoms and their associated factors. This article provides an overview of findings from the Genetic Risk and Outcome of Psychosis (GROUP) cohort study on the deep clinical phenotyping of schizophrenia spectrum disorders targeting positive and negative symptoms, cognitive impairments and psychosocial functioning. Three to four latent subtypes of positive and negative symptoms were identified in patients, siblings and controls, whereas four to six latent cognitive subtypes were identified. Five latent subtypes of psychosocial function—multidimensional social inclusion and premorbid adjustment—were also identified in patients. We discovered that the identified subtypes had mixed profiles and exhibited stable, deteriorating, relapsing and ameliorating longitudinal courses over time. Baseline positive and negative symptoms, premorbid adjustment, psychotic-like experiences, health-related quality of life and PRSSCZ were found to be the strong predictors of the identified subtypes. Our findings are comprehensive, novel and of clinical interest for precisely identifying high-risk population groups, patients with good or poor disease prognosis and the selection of optimal intervention, ultimately fostering precision psychiatry by tackling diagnostic and treatment selection challenges pertaining to heterogeneity.
(E)-N’-(1-(Benzofuran-2-yl)ethylidene)-1-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-5-Methyl-1H-1,2,3-Triazole-4-Carbohydrazide
Authors: Abdel-Wahab Bakr F. , Bekheit Mohamed S. , Kariuki Benson M. , El-Hiti Gamal A.
Published: June 2023

The reaction of equimolar equivalents of 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carbohydrazide (1) and 2-acetylbenzofuran (2) in anhydrous ethanol containing a catalytic amount of concentrated hydrochloric acid under reflux for 2 h gave (E)-N’-(1-(benzofuran-2-yl)ethylidene)-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carbohydrazide (3) in 86% yield. The structure of the title heterocycle 3 was confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance and X-ray diffraction.
Linear Algebraic Relations among Cardinalities of Sets of Matroid Functions
Authors: Kochol Martin
Published: June 2023

We introduce a unifying approach for invariants of finite matroids that count mappings to a finite set. The aim of this paper is to show that if the cardinalities of mappings with fixed values on a restricted set satisfy contraction–deletion rules, then there is a relation among them that can be expressed in terms of linear algebra. In this way, we study regular chain groups, nowhere-zero flows and tensions on graphs, and acyclic and totally cyclic orientations of oriented matroids and graphs.
Electromagnetic Preparation of Materials: From Fundamentals to Applications
Authors: Li Chuanjun , Yu Sheng
Published: June 2023

Magnetic phenomena are amazing and mysterious topics [...]
A Distinctive Metabolomics Profile and Potential Biomarkers for Very Long Acylcarnitine Dehydrogenase Deficiency (VLCADD) Diagnosis in Newborns
Authors: Sebaa Rajaa , AlMalki Reem H. , Alseraty Wafaa , Abdel Rahman Anas M.
Published: June 2023

Very long-chain acylcarnitine dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCADD) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder associated with fatty acid β-oxidation and characterized by genetic mutations in the ACADVL gene and accumulations of acylcarnitines. VLCADD, developed in neonates or later adults, can be diagnosed using newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) or genetic sequencing. These techniques have limitations, such as a high false discovery rate and variants of uncertain significance (VUS). As a result, an extra diagnostic tool is needed to deliver improved performance and health outcomes. As VLCADD is linked with metabolic disturbance, we postulated that newborn patients with VLCADD could display a distinct metabolomics pattern compared to healthy newborns and other disorders. Herein, we applied an untargeted metabolomics approach using liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) to measure the global metabolites in dried blood spot (DBS) cards collected from VLCADD newborns (n = 15) and healthy controls (n = 15). Two hundred and six significantly dysregulated endogenous metabolites were identified in VLCADD, in contrast to healthy newborns. Fifty-eight and one hundred and eight up- and down-regulated endogenous metabolites were involved in several pathways such as tryptophan biosynthesis, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism and pantothenate, and CoA biosynthesis. Furthermore, biomarker analyses identified 3,4-Dihydroxytetradecanoylcarnitine (AUC = 1), PIP (20:1)/PGF1alpha) (AUC = 0.982), and PIP2 (16:0/22:3) (AUC = 0.978) as potential metabolic biomarkers for VLCADD diagnosis. Our findings showed that compared to healthy newborns, VLCAADD newborns exhibit a distinctive metabolic profile, and identified potential biomarkers that can be used for early diagnosis, which improves the identification of the affected patients earlier. This allows for the timely administration of proper treatments, leading to improved health. However, further studies with large independent cohorts of VLCADD patients with different ages and phenotypes need to be studied to validate our potential diagnostic biomarkers and their specificity and accuracy during early life.
Plasma Figure Correction Method Based on Multiple Distributed Material Removal Functions
Authors: Wu Xiang , Fan Bin , Xin Qiang , Luo Qian , Shao Junming , Gao Guohan , Jiao Peiqi
Published: June 2023

In the process of plasma figure correction for a quartz sub-mirror, the plasma parallel removal process and ink masking layer are combined for the first time. A universal plasma figure correction method based on multiple distributed material removal functions is demonstrated, and its technological characteristics are analyzed. Through this method, the processing time is independent of the workpiece aperture, which saves time for the material removal function to scan along the trajectory. After seven iterations, the form error of the quartz element is converged from the initial figure error of ~114 nm RMS to a figure error of ~28 nm RMS, which shows the practical potential of the plasma figure correction method based on multiple distributed material removal functions in optical element manufacturing and the possibility of becoming a new stage process in the optical manufacturing chain.
Biosynthesis of Nanoparticles from Various Biological Sources and Its Biomedical Applications
Authors: Karunakaran Gopalu , Sudha Kattakgoundar Govindaraj , Ali Saheb , Cho Eun-Bum
Published: June 2023

In the last few decades, the broad scope of nanomedicine has played an important role in the global healthcare industry. Biological acquisition methods to obtain nanoparticles (NPs) offer a low-cost, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly approach. This review shows recent data about several methods for procuring nanoparticles and an exhaustive elucidation of biological agents such as plants, algae, bacteria, fungi, actinomycete, and yeast. When compared to the physical, chemical, and biological approaches for obtaining nanoparticles, the biological approach has significant advantages such as non-toxicity and environmental friendliness, which support their significant use in therapeutic applications. The bio-mediated, procured nanoparticles not only help researchers but also manipulate particles to provide health and safety. In addition, we examined the significant biomedical applications of nanoparticles, such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and other medical applications. This review highlights the findings of current research on the bio-mediated acquisition of novel NPs and scrutinizes the various methods proposed to describe them. The bio-mediated synthesis of NPs from plant extracts has several advantages, including bioavailability, environmental friendliness, and low cost. Researchers have sequenced the analysis of the biochemical mechanisms and enzyme reactions of bio-mediated acquisition as well as the determination of the bioactive compounds mediated by nanoparticle acquisition. This review is primarily concerned with collating research from researchers from a variety of disciplines that frequently provides new clarifications to serious problems.
Synthesis, Structures, and Magnetism of Four One-Dimensional Complexes Using [Ni(CN)4]2− and Macrocyclic Metal Complexes
Authors: Ou Guangchuan , Wang Qiong , Tan Yingzhi , Zhou Qiang
Published: June 2023

Four one-dimensional complexes, denoted as [NiL1][Ni(CN)4] (1), [CuL1][Ni(CN)4] (2), [NiL2][Ni(CN)4]·2H2O (3), and [CuL2][Ni(CN)4]·2H2O (4) (L1 = 1,8-dimethyl-1,3,6,8,10,13-hexaaza-cyclotetradecane; L2 = 1,8-dipropyl-1,3,6,8,10,13-hexaazacyclotetradecane) were synthesized by reacting nickel/copper macrocyclic complexes with K2[Ni(CN)4]. Subsequently, the synthesized complexes were characterized using elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray powder diffraction. Single-crystal structure analysis revealed that the Ni(II)/Cu(II) atoms were coordinated by two nitrogen atoms from [Ni(CN)4]2− with four nitrogen atoms from a macrocyclic ligand, forming a six-coordinated octahedral coordination geometry. Nickel/copper macrocyclic complexes were bridged by [Ni(CN)4]2− to construct one-dimensional chain structures in 1–4. The characterization results showed that the four complexes obeyed the Curie–Weiss law with a weak antiferromagnetic exchange coupling.
Methods to Detect Volatile Organic Compounds for Breath Biopsy Using Solid-Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Schulz Eray , Woollam Mark , Grocki Paul , Davis Michael D. , Agarwal Mangilal
Published: June 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are byproducts from metabolic pathways that can be detected in exhaled breath and have been reported as biomarkers for different diseases. The gold standard for analysis is gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), which can be coupled with various sampling methods. The current study aims to develop and compare different methods for sampling and preconcentrating VOCs using solid-phase microextraction (SPME). An in-house sampling method, direct-breath SPME (DB–SPME), was developed to directly extract VOCs from breath using a SPME fiber. The method was optimized by exploring different SPME types, the overall exhalation volume, and breath fractionation. DB–SPME was quantitatively compared to two alternative methods involving the collection of breath in a Tedlar bag. In one method, VOCs were directly extracted from the Tedlar bag (Tedlar–SPME) and in the other, the VOCs were cryothermally transferred from the Tedlar bag to a headspace vial (cryotransfer). The methods were verified and quantitatively compared using breath samples (n = 15 for each method respectively) analyzed by GC–MS quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) for compounds including but not limited to acetone, isoprene, toluene, limonene, and pinene. The cryotransfer method was the most sensitive, demonstrating the strongest signal for the majority of the VOCs detected in the exhaled breath samples. However, VOCs with low molecular weights, including acetone and isoprene, were detected with the highest sensitivity using the Tedlar–SPME. On the other hand, the DB–SPME was less sensitive, although it was rapid and had the lowest background GC–MS signal. Overall, the three breath-sampling methods can detect a wide variety of VOCs in breath. The cryotransfer method may be optimal when collecting a large number of samples using Tedlar bags, as it allows the long-term storage of VOCs at low temperatures (−80 °C), while Tedlar–SPME may be more effective when targeting relatively small VOCs. The DB-SPME method may be the most efficient when more immediate analyses and results are required.
Multi-Omics Analysis Revealed Increased De Novo Synthesis of Serine and Lower Activity of the Methionine Cycle in Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Pankevičiūtė-Bukauskienė Monika , Mikalayeva Valeryia , Žvikas Vaidotas , Skeberdis V. Arvydas , Bordel Sergio
Published: June 2023

A pipeline for metabolomics, based on UPLC-ESI-MS, was tested on two malignant breast cancer cell lines of the sub-types ER(+), PR(+), and HER2(3+) (MCF-7 and BCC), and one non-malignant epithelial cancer cell line (MCF-10A). This allowed us to quantify 33 internal metabolites, 10 of which showed a concentration profile associated with malignancy. Whole-transcriptome RNA-seq was also carried out for the three mentioned cell lines. An integrated analysis of metabolomics and transcriptomics was carried out using a genome-scale metabolic model. Metabolomics revealed the depletion of several metabolites that have homocysteine as a precursor, which was consistent with the lower activity of the methionine cycle caused by lower expression of the AHCY gene in cancer cell lines. Increased intracellular serine pools in cancer cell lines appeared to result from the over-expression of PHGDH and PSPH, which are involved in intracellular serine biosynthesis. An increased concentration of pyroglutamic acid in malignant cells was linked to the overexpression of the gene CHAC1.
Materials Based on Co, Cu, and Cr as Activators of PMS for Degrading a Representative Antibiotic—The Strategy for Utilization in Water Treatment and Warnings on Metal Leaching
Authors: Serna-Galvis Efraím A. , Mendoza-Merlano Carlos , Torres-Palma Ricardo A. , Echavarría-Isaza Adriana , Hoyos-Ayala Dora A.
Published: June 2023

A chromate of copper and cobalt (Φy) was synthesized and characterized. Φy activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade ciprofloxacin (CIP) in water. The Φy/PMS combination showed a high degrading capability toward CIP (~100% elimination in 15 min). However, Φy leached cobalt (1.6 mg L−1), limiting its use for water treatment. To avoid leaching, Φy was calcinated, forming a mixed metal oxide (MMO). In the combination of MMO/PMS, no metals leached, the CIP adsorption was low (<20%), and the action of SO4•− dominated, leading to a synergistic effect on pollutant elimination (>95% after 15 min of treatment). MMO/PMS promoted the opening and oxidation of the piperazyl ring, plus the hydroxylation of the quinolone moiety on CIP, which potentially decreased the biological activity. After three reuse cycles, the MMO still presented with a high activation of PMS toward CIP degradation (90% in 15 min of action). Additionally, the CIP degradation by the MMO/PMS system in simulated hospital wastewater was close to that obtained in distilled water. This work provides relevant information on the stability of Co-, Cu-, and Cr-based materials under interaction with PMS and the strategies to obtain a proper catalyst to degrade CIP.
Design, Synthesis, and Anti-Cervical Cancer and Reversal of Tumor Multidrug Resistance Activity of Novel Nitrogen-Containing Heterocyclic Chalcone Derivatives
Authors: Yang Zheng , Liu Zheng-Ye , Ablise Mourboul , Maimaiti Aikebaier , Mutalipu Zuohelaguli , Alimujiang Yusupuwajimu , Aihaiti Aizitiaili
Published: June 2023

This study involved the design and synthesis of 21 new nitrogen-containing heterocyclic chalcone derivatives utilizing the active substructure splicing principle, with glycyrrhiza chalcone serving as the lead compound. The targets of these derivatives were VEGFR-2 and P-gp, and their efficacy against cervical cancer was evaluated. Following preliminary conformational analysis, compound 6f ((E)-1-(2-hydroxy-5-((4-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)methyl)-4-methoxyphenyl)-3-(4-((4-methylpiperidin-1-yl)methyl)phenyl)prop-2-en-1-one) exhibited significant antiproliferative activity against human cervical cancer cells (HeLa and SiHa) with IC50 values of 6.52 ± 0.42 and 7.88 ± 0.52 μM, respectively, when compared to other compounds and positive control drugs. Additionally, this compound demonstrated lower toxicity towards human normal cervical epithelial cells (H8). Subsequent investigations have demonstrated that 6f exerts an inhibitory impact on VEGFR-2, as evidenced by its ability to impede the phosphorylation of p-VEGFR-2, p-PI3K, and p-Akt proteins in HeLa cells. This, in turn, results in the suppression of cell proliferation and the induction of both early and late apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, 6f significantly curtails the invasion and migration of HeLa cells. In addition, 6f had an IC50 of 7.74 ± 0.36 μM against human cervical cancer cisplatin-resistant HeLa/DDP cells and a resistance index (RI) of 1.19, compared to 7.36 for cisplatin HeLa cells. The combination of 6f and cisplatin resulted in a significant reduction in cisplatin resistance in HeLa/DDP cells. Molecular docking analyses revealed that 6f exhibited binding free energies of −9.074 and −9.823 kcal·mol−1 to VEGFR-2 and P-gp targets, respectively, and formed hydrogen bonding forces. These findings suggest that 6f has potential as an anti-cervical cancer agent and may reverse cisplatin-resistant activity in cervical cancer. The introduction of the 4-hydroxy piperidine and 4-methyl piperidine rings may contribute to its efficacy, and its mechanism of action may involve dual inhibition of VEGFR-2 and P-gp targets.
Preeminent Flame-Retardant and Smoke Suppression Properties of PCaAl-LDHs Nanostructures on Bamboo Scrimber
Authors: Yang Fei , Hu Ailian , Du Chungui , Zhu Jiawei , Wang Yuting , Shao Yuran , Bao Qichao , Ran Yin
Published: June 2023

Bamboo scrimber is widely used in interior decoration, architecture, and many other fields. However, it has caused huge security risks due to its inherent flammability and easy-to-produce toxic volatiles after combustion. In this work, the bamboo scrimber with superior flame retardant and smoke suppression properties was produced via the coupling of phosphocalcium-aluminum hydrotalcite (PCaAl-LDHs) with bamboo bundles. The results demonstrated that the flame-retardant bamboo scrimber (FRBS) heat release rate (HRR) and total heat release (THR) were, respectively, reduced by 34.46% and 15.86% compared with that of untreated bamboo scrimber. At the same time, the unique multi-layer structure of PCaAl-LDHs effectively slowed down the release rate of flue gas by extending its escape path. Cone calorimetry showed that the total smoke emissions (TSR) and specific extinction area (SEA) of FRBS were, respectively, reduced by 65.97% and 85.96% when the concentration of the flame retardant was 2%, which greatly developed the fire safety of the bamboo scrimber. This method not only improves the fire safety of bamboo scrimber but can also be expected to broaden its use scenarios.