bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nucleus-translocated GCLM promotes chemoresistance in colorectal cancer through a moonlighting function
Authors: Lin Jin-Fei , Liu Ze-Xian , Chen Dong-Liang , Huang Ren-Ze , Cao Fen , Yu Kai , Li Ting , Mo Hai-Yu , Sheng Hui , Liang Zhi-Bing , Liao Kun , Han Yi , Li Shan-Shan , Zeng Zhao-Lei , Gao Song , Ju Huai-Qiang , Xu Rui-Hua
Published: January 2025

Metabolic enzymes perform moonlighting functions during tumor progression, including the modulation of chemoresistance. However, the underlying mechanisms of these functions remain elusive. Here, utilizing a metabolic clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 knockout library screen, we observe that the loss of glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM), a rate-limiting enzyme in glutathione biosynthesis, noticeably increases the sensitivity of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells to platinum-based chemotherapy. Mechanistically, we unveil a noncanonical mechanism through which nuclear GCLM competitively interacts with NF-kappa-B (NF-κB)-repressing factor (NKRF), to promote NF-κB activity and facilitate chemoresistance. In response to platinum drug treatment, GCLM is phosphorylated by P38 MAPK at T17, resulting in its recognition by importin a5 and subsequent nuclear translocation. Furthermore, elevated expression of nuclear GCLM and phospho-GCLM correlate with an unfavorable prognosis and poor benefit from standard chemotherapy. Overall, our work highlights the essential nonmetabolic role and posttranslational regulatory mechanism of GCLM in enhancing NF-κB activity and subsequent chemoresistance.
Polysulfur-based bulking of dynamin-related protein 1 prevents ischemic sulfide catabolism and heart failure in mice
Authors: Nishimura Akiyuki , Ogata Seiryo , Tang Xiaokang , Hengphasatporn Kowit , Umezawa Keitaro , Sanbo Makoto , Hirabayashi Masumi , Kato Yuri , Ibuki Yuko , Kumagai Yoshito , Kobayashi Kenta , Kanda Yasunari , Urano Yasuteru , Shigeta Yasuteru , Akaike Takaaki , Nishida Motohiro
Published: January 2025

The presence of redox-active molecules containing catenated sulfur atoms (supersulfides) in living organisms has led to a review of the concepts of redox biology and its translational strategy. Glutathione (GSH) is the body’s primary detoxifier and antioxidant, and its oxidized form (GSSG) has been considered as a marker of oxidative status. However, we report that GSSG, but not reduced GSH, prevents ischemic supersulfide catabolism-associated heart failure in male mice by electrophilic modification of dynamin-related protein (Drp1). In healthy exercised hearts, the redox-sensitive Cys644 of Drp1 is highly S-glutathionylated. Nearly 40% of Cys644 is normally polysulfidated, which is a preferential target for GSSG-mediated S-glutathionylation. Cys644 S-glutathionylation is resistant to Drp1 depolysulfidation-dependent mitochondrial hyperfission and myocardial dysfunction caused by hypoxic stress. MD simulation of Drp1 structure and site-directed mutagenetic analysis reveal a functional interaction between Cys644 and a critical phosphorylation site Ser637, through Glu640. Bulky modification at Cys644 via polysulfidation or S-glutathionylation reduces Drp1 activity by disrupting Ser637-Glu640-Cys644 interaction. Disruption of Cys644 S-glutathionylation nullifies the cardioprotective effect of GSSG against heart failure after myocardial infarction. Our findings suggest a therapeutic potential of supersulfide-based Cys bulking on Drp1 for ischemic heart disease.
PhpCNF-Y transcription factor infiltrates heterochromatin to generate cryptic intron-containing transcripts crucial for small RNA production
Authors: Srivastav Manjit Kumar , Folco H. Diego , Nathanailidou Patroula , Anil Anupa T , Vijayakumari Drisya , Jain Shweta , Dhakshnamoorthy Jothy , O’Neill Maura , Andresson Thorkell , Wheeler David , Grewal Shiv I. S.
Published: January 2025

The assembly of repressive heterochromatin in eukaryotic genomes is crucial for silencing lineage-inappropriate genes and repetitive DNA elements. Paradoxically, transcription of repetitive elements within constitutive heterochromatin domains is required for RNA-based mechanisms, such as the RNAi pathway, to target heterochromatin assembly proteins. However, the mechanism by which heterochromatic repeats are transcribed has been unclear. Using fission yeast, we show that the conserved trimeric transcription factor (TF) PhpCNF-Y complex can infiltrate constitutive heterochromatin via its histone-fold domains to transcribe repeat elements. PhpCNF-Y collaborates with a Zn-finger containing TF to bind repeat promoter regions with CCAAT boxes. Mutating either the TFs or the CCAAT binding site disrupts the transcription of heterochromatic repeats. Although repeat elements are transcribed from both strands, PhpCNF-Y-dependent transcripts originate from only one strand. These TF-driven transcripts contain multiple cryptic introns which are required for the generation of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) via a mechanism involving the spliceosome and RNAi machinery. Our analyses show that siRNA production by this TF-mediated transcription pathway is critical for heterochromatin nucleation at target repeat loci. This study reveals a mechanism by which heterochromatic repeats are transcribed, initiating their own silencing by triggering a primary cascade that produces siRNAs necessary for heterochromatin nucleation.
A sedimentary ancient DNA perspective on human and carnivore persistence through the Late Pleistocene in El Mirón Cave, Spain
Authors: Gelabert Pere , Oberreiter Victoria , Straus Lawrence Guy , Morales Manuel Ramón González , Sawyer Susanna , Marín-Arroyo Ana B. , Geiling Jeanne Marie , Exler Florian , Brueck Florian , Franz Stefan , Cano Fernanda Tenorio , Szedlacsek Sophie , Zelger Evelyn , Hämmerle Michelle , Zagorc Brina , Llanos-Lizcano Alejandro , Cheronet Olivia , Tejero José-Miguel , Rattei Thomas , Kraemer Stephan M. , Pinhasi Ron
Published: January 2025

Caves are primary sites for studying human and animal subsistence patterns and genetic ancestry throughout the Palaeolithic. Iberia served as a critical human and animal refugium in Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), 26.5 to 19 thousand years before the present (cal kya). Therefore, it is a key location for understanding human and animal population dynamics during this event. We recover and analyse sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) data from the lower archaeological stratigraphic sequence of El Mirón Cave (Cantabria, Spain), encompassing the (1) Late Mousterian period, associated with Neanderthals, and (2) the Gravettian (c. 31.5 cal kya), Solutrean (c. 24.5–22 cal kya), and Initial Magdalenian (d. 21–20.5 cal kya) periods, associated with anatomically modern humans. We identify 28 animal taxa including humans. Fifteen of these taxa had not been identified from the archaeozoological (i.e., faunal) record, including the presence of hyenas in the Magdalenian. Additionally, we provide phylogenetic analyses on 70 sedaDNA mtDNA genomes of fauna including the densest Iberian Pleistocene sampling of C. lupus. Finally, we recover three human mtDNA sequences from the Solutrean levels. These sequences, along with published data, suggest mtDNA haplogroup continuity in Iberia throughout the Solutrean/Last Glacial Maximum period.
Air pollution modifies colonisation factors in beneficial symbiont Snodgrassella and disrupts the bumblebee gut microbiome
Authors: Sampson Hannah R. , Allcock Natalie , Mallon Eamonn B. , Ketley Julian M. , Morrissey Julie A.
Published: January 2025

Particulate air pollutants, a major air pollution component, are detrimental to human health and a significant risk to wildlife and ecosystems globally. Here we report the effects of particulate pollutant black carbon on the beneficial gut microbiome of important global insect pollinator, the buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris). Our data shows that exposure to black carbon particulates alters biofilm structure, gene expression and initial adhesion of beneficial bee gut coloniser, Snodgrassella alvi. Exposure of adult Bombus terrestris to non-toxic black carbon particulates significantly increased viable bacteria on MRS agar and 16S absolute abundance of beneficial bacteria Bombilactobacillus in Post-treated bumblebees compared to Pre-treated, demonstrating disruption of the bumblebee gut microbiome. These findings show that black carbon exposure has direct, measurable effects on bees’ beneficial commensal bacteria and microbiome. Together these data highlight that black carbon, a single type of particulate pollution, is an underexplored risk to insect pollinator health.
Substantial and overlooked greenhouse gas emissions from deep Arctic lake sediment
Authors: Freitas Nancy L. , Walter Anthony Katey , Lenz Josefine , Porras Rachel C. , Torn Margaret S.
Published: January 2025

Thermokarst lakes cause abrupt and sustained permafrost degradation and have the potential to release large quantities of ancient carbon to the atmosphere. Despite concerns about how lakes will affect the permafrost carbon feedback, the magnitude of carbon dioxide and methane emissions from deep permafrost soils remains poorly understood. Here we incubated a very deep sediment core (20 m) to constrain the potential productivity of thawed Yedoma and underlying Quaternary sand and gravel deposits. Through radiocarbon dating, sediment incubations and sediment facies classifications, we show that extensive permafrost thaw can occur beneath lakes on timescales of decades to centuries. Although it has been assumed that shallow, aerobic carbon dioxide production will dominate the climate impact of permafrost thaw, we found that anaerobic carbon dioxide and methane production from deep sediments was commensurate with aerobic production on a per gram carbon basis, and had double the global warming potential at warmer temperatures. Carbon release from deep Arctic sediments may thus have a more substantial impact on a changing climate than currently anticipated. These environments are presently overlooked in estimates of the permafrost carbon feedback.
Effect of Nb/B addition on the flow behavior and mechanical properties of low-carbon steel using compact strip production
Authors: Refaee Ahmed , El-Shenawy Eman , Domiaty Aly El , Abdalla Abdalla M. , Reda Reham
Published: January 2025

This work examines the effects of Nb and Nb-B additives on the high-temperature flow behavior and mechanical properties of low-carbon steel. The base, 0.015% Nb-bearing (15Nb alloy), and 0.015% Nb-30 ppm B-bearing (15Nb30B alloy) low-carbon steels were manufactured at Al Ezz Dekheila Steel Company using the compact strip production line (CSP). The mean flow stress log data from the CSP line was utilized to determine the no-recrystallization temperature. The microstructure and high-temperature flow behavior were studied using thermomechanical controlled processing at different deformation temperatures with a 40% reduction using the Gleeble physical simulator. The phase evolution and precipitation state at various temperatures were studied15Nb30B alloy reveals lower flow stress at high processing temperature in comparison with 15Nb alloy. This is attributed to the early precipitation of BN, which led to restricted Nb-based precipitates. The addition of B to Nb-bearing steel slightly refines the grain size of the as-rolled alloy, which in turn has a beneficial effect on its strength. The research results highlight the industrial benefit of adding boron to Nb-bearing low C-steel in terms of reducing the rolling load and reducing the finishing rolling temperature while maintaining the mechanical properties of the as-rolled strips.
Key features and guidelines for the application of microbial alpha diversity metrics
Authors: Cassol Ignacio , Ibañez Mauro , Bustamante Juan Pablo
Published: January 2025

Studies of microbial communities vary widely in terms of analysis methods. In this growing field, the wide variety of diversity measures and lack of consistency make it harder to compare different studies. Most existing alpha diversity metrics are inherited from other disciplines and their assumptions are not always directly meaningful or true for microbiome data. Many existing microbiome studies apply one or some alpha diversity metrics with no fundamentals but also an unclear results interpretation. This work focuses on a theoretical, empirical, and comparative analysis of 19 frequently and less-frequently used microbial alpha diversity metrics grouped into 4 proposed categories, including key features of every analyzed metric with their mathematical assumptions, to provide a deeper understanding of the existing metrics and a practical implementation guide for future studies. Key metrics that should be required in microbiome analysis include richness, phylogenetic diversity, entropy, dominance of a few microbes over others, and an estimate of unobserved microbes. Collectively, these metrics contribute to a comprehensive set of analyses characterizing samples, allowing the determination of key aspects that might be otherwise obscured by partial or biased information. These guidelines enable further detailed analysis by each author according to their specific interests and clinical trials. Several practical examples are provided to illustrate how these recommendations improve the quality and depth of information obtained, facilitating better interpretation when working with microbiome data. These guidelines can be applied to both existing and future research studies, enhancing the standardization, consistency, and robustness of the analyses conducted. This approach aims to improve the capture of biological diversity, leading to better interpretations and insights.
Projected changes in climate extremes over Tanzania
Authors: Luhunga Philbert Modest
Published: January 2025

Understanding projected changes in climate extremes at local and regional scales is critical for reducing society’s vulnerability to such extremes, as it helps to devise informed adaptation strategies and contributes to informed decision-making processes. In this paper, we analysed projected changes in climate extremes across regions in Tanzania using outputs of high-resolution regional climate models from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment program (CORDEX-Africa). The indices analysed here are those recommended by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI) to characterise climate extremes over different regions. The results revealed that Tanzania would experience an increased number of warm days and nights during the present (2011–2040), mid (2041–2070), and end centuries under the RCP4.5 emission scenarios. Further, projections reveal that in future climate conditions, heavy, very heavy and exceptionally heavy rainfall events would dominate over regions along coast, central regions, northwestern parts and southwestern and northeastern highland.The number of consecutive wet days (CWDs) are likely to increase across large areas of Tanzania and more rapidily over coastal regions than that in other regions for all seasons. However, many regions in Tanzania are likely to experience an unchanged to decreasing number of consecutive dry days (CDDs). Areas along coastal regions would experience increased intensity and frequency of extreme rainfall events in the present, mid, and end centuries under the RCP4.5 emission scenario. These increases in extreme climate events are likely to pose significant damage to property, destruction of infrastructure, and other socioeconomic livelihoods for people in many regions of Tanzania. It is therefore recommended that appropriate policies are put in place to help different sectors and communities at large adapt the impacts of climate change in the future climate under RCP 4.5 scenario.
Serum miRNA-101 expression signature as non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for Hepatitis C virus—associated hepatocellular carcinoma in Egyptian patients
Authors: Sharafeldin Mostafa A. , Suef Reda A. , Mousa Adel A. , Ziada Dina H. , Farag Mohamed M. S.
Published: January 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally due to HCC late diagnosis and limited treatment options. MiRNAs (miRNAs) emerged as potential biomarkers for various diseases, including HCC. However, the value of miRNA-101 as a serum biomarker for HCV-induced HCC has not been fully investigated. Our study aims to investigate the miRNA-101 differential expression in Egyptian HCV-induced HCC patients’ serum versus HCV liver cirrhosis (LC) as prospective diagnostic biomarkers compared to alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Blood samples were collected for clinical chemistry profile, liver function, and serum AFP investigations. The serum miR-101 expression levels were evaluated using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) in 100 Egyptian subjects: 40 HCV-induced HCC, 40 HCV-induced cirrhosis, and 20 healthy controls. HCC patients showed significantly higher TB, DB, and AFP levels than those cirrhosis and control groups, whereas ALB and Total Protein exhibited significantly reduced levels. AFP sensitivity and specificity in differentiating HCC reported 60 and 67%, respectively, at the cut-off values of 7ng/dl. miR-101 shows fold change upregulation in HCC patients (P < 0.0001) compared to LC and control groups. ROC curve demonstrated miR-101 (AUC) of 0.9556, sensitivity 92.5%, and specificity 97.5%, highlighting the miR-101 diagnostic potential as a biomarker for HCC detection. Elevated miR-101 levels in HCC are significantly correlated with a higher number and larger size of focal lesions, advanced BCLC staging, and Child–Pugh score. These findings highlight the utility of miR-101 as a predictive and diagnostic non-invasive biomarker for HCV-related HCC from cirrhotic populations. More research is warranted to validate the clinical validity of miR-101 and explore underlying mechanisms in HCV-HCC progression.
Collision detection method for anchor digging machine water drilling rig
Authors: Liu Zhi-xiang , Yan Shu-tong , Zou Kang , Xie Miao
Published: January 2025

Loading water drilling rig on the anchor digging machine can effectively increase the tunneling efficiency. In order to avoid the interference between the water drilling rig and the anchor machine in the working process, it is necessary to calculate the joint variables of the drilling rig accurately. Using the robot kinematics analysis method, the kinematics model of the system is established. At the same time, combined with bounding box collision detection technology, the key parts of the equipment are mathematically modeled. A method for collision detection of onboard water exploration and drainage drilling rig of anchor digging machine is proposed. The simulation results show : The designed collision detection method can be used to guide the attitude adjustment of the equipment during the drilling operation of the equipment, and can accurately analyze the interference characteristics and collision detection of the equipment. It provides a theoretical basis for the automatic excavation of the research object and the automatic control of drilling. The azimuth adjustment range of the water drilling rig for the experiment is : ± 15°, and the pitch angle adjustment range is : + 5° to -10°.
Design and synthesis of antiproliferative 2-oxoindolin-3-ylidenes incorporating urea function with potential VEGFR-2 inhibitory properties
Authors: Aboshouk Dalia R. , Youssef M. Adel , Panda Siva S. , Kariuki Benson M. , Bekheit Mohamed S. , Hamed Ahmed R. , Fayad Walid , Soliman Ahmed A. F. , Girgis Adel S.
Published: January 2025

Targeted therapy is preferable over other therapeutics due to its limitation of drawbacks and better pharmaceutical outcomes. VEGF and its receptors have been observed to be hyper-activated in many cancer types and are considered promising targets for assigning anticancer agents. The current study is directed towards synthesis of novel antiproliferative 2-oxoindolin-3-ylidenes incorporating urea function with VEGFR-2 properties. The targeted agents were obtained through a two-step reaction. Addition of the appropriate 1-(acetylphenyl)-3-phenylurea 9a,b to the corresponding isatin 10a–f in ethanol containing a quantitative amount of Et2NH followed by acidic dehydration (AcOH/HCl) afforded the targeted agents 12a–j. Promising antiproliferation properties (MTT assay) were observed for most of the synthesized agents against HCT116 (colon), MCF7 (breast) and PaCa2 (pancreatic) cancer cell lines relative to sunitinib. VEGFR-2 inhibitory properties are consistent with the antiproliferation properties exhibited against the tested cell lines. Compound 12b (R = 4-NHCONHPh, R′ = H; % inhibition = 87.2) is the most promising/potent anti-VEGFR-2 agent synthesized with activity close to that of sunitinib (% inhibition = 89.4) at 10 μM. Molecular docking studies (PDB: 3WZE and 3AGD) support the antiproliferation effects against cancer cell lines tested with VEGFR-2 inhibitory properties. The results are consistent with collaboration of the pharmacophores considered (2-oxoindolyl heterocycle and urea) in improving the bio-properties.
Investigating skyrmion stability and core polarity reversal in NdMn2Ge2
Authors: Treves Samuel K. , Ukleev Victor , Apseros Andreas , Massey Jamie Robert , Wagner Kai , Lehmann Paul , Kitaori Aki , Kanazawa Naoya , Brock Jeffrey A. , Finizio Simone , Reuteler Joakim , Tokura Yoshinori , Maletinsky Patrick , Scagnoli Valerio
Published: January 2025

We present a study on nanoscale skyrmionic spin textures in $$\hbox {NdMn}_{{2}}\hbox {Ge}_{{2}}$$, a rare-earth complex noncollinear ferromagnet. We confirm, using X-ray microscopy, that $$\hbox {NdMn}_{{2}}\hbox {Ge}_{{2}}$$ can host lattices of metastable skyrmion bubbles at room temperature in the absence of a magnetic field, after applying a suitable field cooling protocol. The skyrmion bubbles are robust against temperature changes from room temperature to 330 K. Furthermore, the skyrmion bubbles can be distorted, deformed, and recovered by varying strength and orientation of the applied magnetic field. We have used nitrogen-vacancy nanoscale magnetic imaging to estimate and map the magnetic stray fields originating from our $$\hbox {NdMn}_{{2}}\hbox {Ge}_{{2}}$$ lamella samples and find stray field magnitudes on the order of a few mT near the sample surface. Micromagnetic simulations show an overall agreement with the observed behaviour of the sample under different magnetic field protocols. We also find that the presence of the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction is not required to reproduce our experimental results. Its inclusion in the simulation leads to a reversal of the skyrmionic object core polarity, which is not experimentally observed. Our results further corroborate the stability and robustness of the skyrmion bubbles formed in $${\hbox {NdMn}_2\hbox {Ge}_2}$$ and their potential for future spintronic applications.
Better than expected performance effect depends on the spatial location of visual stimulus
Authors: Majidpour Soodeh , Sanayei Mehdi , Ebrahimpour Reza , Zabbah Sajjad
Published: January 2025

The process of perceptual decision-making in the real world involves the aggregation of pieces of evidence into a final choice. Visual evidence is usually presented in different pieces, distributed across time and space. We wondered whether adding variation in the location of the received information would lead to differences in how subjects integrated visual information. Seven participants viewed two pulses of random dot motion stimulus, separated by time gaps and presented at different locations within the visual field. Our findings suggest that subjects accumulate discontinuous information (over space or time) differently than when it is presented continuously, in the same location or with no gaps between them. These findings indicate that the discontinuity of evidence impacts the process of evidence integration in a manner more nuanced than that presumed by the theory positing perfect integration of evidence.
Silver nanoparticles immobilized on crosslinked vinyl polymer for catalytic reduction of nitrophenol: experimental and computational studies
Authors: Elbayoumy Elsayed , El-Bindary Ashraf A. , Nakano Tamaki , Aboelnga Mohamed M.
Published: January 2025

The removal of toxic nitrophenols from the industrial wastewater is urgently needed from health, environmental and economic aspects. The present study deals with the synthesis of crosslinked vinyl polymer Poly(divinylbenzene) (poly(DVB)) through free radical polymerization technique using AIBN as initiator and acetonitrile as solvent. The prepared polymer was used as a support for silver nanoparticles via chemical reduction of silver nitrate on the polymer network. The prepared poly(DVB) and Ag/poly(DVB) composite were characterized by different techniques including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis. The results exhibit that silver metal was well distributed on the surface of poly(DVB) without any aggregation as a nanocrystals with an average size 13 nm. Also, BET analysis confirm that Ag/poly(DVB) composite is a meso porous material with a surface area 127.428 m²/g. This composite was also applied as a heterogenous catalyst for the reduction of toxic nitrophenol in the industrial wastewater into a less toxic aminophenol with the aid of NaBH4 as reductant. In addition, Ag/poly(DVB) catalyst regards as one of the most active catalyst that exhibits an advantage over the other catalysts showing similar activities in the aspects that it can be more readily prepared than the competitors and that it works at the lowest concentration of NaBH4. Interestingly, DFT calculations were conducted to provide atomistic insights into the reduction mechanism and a detailed catalytic pathway have been proposed. Furthermore, the reusability experiment confirm that Ag/poly(DVB) was stable and can be removed from the reaction mixture by centrifuge and reused for four successive cycles with a slight decrease in their catalytic activity.
Multiobjective distribution system operation with demand response to optimize solar hosting capacity, voltage deviation index and network loss
Authors: Loji Kabulo , Sharma Sachin , Sharma Gulshan , Rawat Tanuj
Published: January 2025

In this research, demand response impact on the hosting capacity of solar photovoltaic for distribution system is investigated. The suggested solution model is formulated and presented as a tri-objective optimization that consider maximization of solar PV hosting capacity (HC), minimization of network losses (Loss) and maintaining node voltage deviation (VDev) within acceptable limits. These crucial objectives are optimized simultaneously as well as individually. To assess the efficacy of the solution, different multi-objective case studies are scrutinised based on the combinations of (i) HC and Loss, (ii) HC and VDev, (iii) Loss and VDev, (iv) HC Loss and VDev simultaneously with the effect of demand response. The multi-objective research problem is formulated as non-linear and non-convex programming approach. To solve this complex problem, the modified crow search optimization (MCSO) is proposed. The MCSO achieved the 0.0714 MW of network loss with the optimal integration of distributed generation and is comparable to the well-established optimization algorithms available in literature. From the simulation results, it is found that HC is 3322.31 kW, VDev is 0.4982 p.u and system losses is 1314.86 kWh with demand response program when all the objectives are simultaneously optimized. The simulation outcomes highlight the superiority of the MCSO over others. The application results show the benefits and the beauty of proposed research work.
Microwave-induced degradation of Congo red dye in the presence of 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene as a catalyst
Authors: El-Mas Salma M. , Hassaan Mohamed A. , El-Subruiti Gehan M. , Eltaweil Abdelazeem S. , El Nemr Ahmed
Published: January 2025

In this research, the degradation of Congo red (CR) dye, as an organic pollutant in water, was investigated using microwave-induced reaction technology. This technology requires a microwave-absorbing catalyst and the 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene was synthesized for that purpose. The synthesized catalyst was characterized using XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, BET, and XPS techniques. Results showed that the prepared 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene with a dosage of 50 mg degraded CR dye with an initial concentration of 25 ppm in an aqueous solution with a degradation percentage of approximately 99% in only 6 min. The parameters studied were catalyst dosage and initial CR dye concentration, which were found to have significant impacts on the degradation rate. When the catalyst dosage was increased significantly, the degradation rate increased significantly. On the other hand, when increasing the initial CR dye concentration, the degradation rate decreased. The degradation kinetics were studied, and the reaction followed the pseudo-first-order model. The rate constants obtained ranged from 0.04 to 0.83 min−1, varying according to the used catalyst dosage and initial CR dye concentration. The catalyst was stable and could be reused for up to five catalytic cycles without losing its degradation efficiency. The active species participating in the degradation process were determined using scavengers such as benzoquinone, Na-EDTA, and isopropyl alcohol. Optimization of the degradation parameters using a response surface methodology study concluded that a maximum degradation percentage could be reached when employing 35.30 mg of 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene and 29.07 ppm of CR dye solution.
Design of anomalous reflecting metasurface for communication systems
Authors: Zamel Hany M. , Eldesouki Eman M. , Attiya Ahmed M.
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel design approach for an anomalous reflector metasurface for communication systems operating at 8 GHz band. The main contribution of this work is the development of a general analytical method that accurately calculates the electromagnetic response of realistic metasurfaces with periodic impedance profiles. The modulated surface impedance is achieved by incorporating appropriately sized conductive patches on a grounded dielectric substrate. The proposed design utilizes a genetic algorithm (GA) optimization technique to optimize the surface impedance that achieving efficient reflection of incident waves towards a specific angle of 45˚. The optimization process targets a specific impedance profile derived from the analytical model, leading to the desired anomalous reflection behavior. Then by using periodic boundary conditions, dimensions of an elliptical unit cells can be obtained. To evaluate the anomalous reflection performance, the bistatic radar cross section (BRCS) are simulated at different frequencies. A reflector metasurface sheet is fabricated and measured for verification. The proposed approach provides a foundation for implementing intelligent metasurfaces in various communication applications.
Real-world evaluation of an evidence-based telemental health program for PTSD symptoms
Authors: Owusu Jocelynn T. , Wang Lu , Chen Shih-Yin , Wickham Robert E. , Michael Scott T. , Bahrassa Nazneen F. , Varra Alethea , Lee Jennifer L. , Chen Connie , Lungu Anita
Published: January 2025

Blended care therapy (BCT), which augments live, video-based psychotherapy sessions with asynchronous digital tools, has the potential to increase access to evidence-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, its effectiveness in diverse, real-world settings is not well-understood. This evaluation aimed to assess clinical outcomes of a BCT program for PTSD symptoms. A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted of 199 adults who received an employer-offered BCT program for PTSD symptoms that delivered either cognitive processing therapy or prolonged exposure. PTSD symptom severity was regularly assessed using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Growth curve models were used to evaluate the trajectory of PTSD symptoms over the course of care, and an interaction term was added to assess outcomes by baseline PTSD symptom severity (i.e., PCL-5 ≥ 31 versus PCL-5 < 31). End-of-care reliable improvement and recovery were evaluated. On average, participants with baseline PCL-5 < 31 exhibited statistically significant declines in PTSD symptoms during care, while participants with baseline PCL-5 ≥ 31 showed statistically significantly steeper initial declines in PTSD symptoms that became less pronounced over time. Overall, 82.91% of participants demonstrated either reliable improvement or recovery in PTSD symptoms. This evaluation suggests BCT for PTSD symptoms can be beneficial in real-world settings. Future research should perform large-scale evaluations.
A novel method for intelligent operation and maintenance of transformers using deep visual large model DETR + X and digital twin
Authors: Zhang Xuedong , Sun Wenlei , Chen Ke , Song Shijie
Published: January 2025

To achieve real-time monitoring and intelligent maintenance of transformers, a framework based on deep vision and digital twin has been developed. An enhanced visual detection model, DETR + X, is proposed, implementing multidimensional sample data augmentation through Swin2SR and GAN networks. This model converts one-dimensional DGA data into three-dimensional feature images based on Gram angle fields, facilitating the transformation and fusion of heterogeneous modal information. The Pyramid Vision Transformer (PVT) is innovatively adopted as the backbone for image feature extraction, replacing the traditional ResNet structure. A Deformable Attention mechanism is employed to handle the complex spatial structure of multi-scale features. Testing results indicate that the improved DETR + X model performs well in transformer state recognition tasks, achieving a classification accuracy of 100% for DGA feature maps. In object detection tasks, it surpasses advanced models such as Faster R-CNN, RetinaNet, YOLOv8, and Deformable DETR in terms of overall mAP50 scores, particularly demonstrating significant enhancements in small object detection. Furthermore, the Llava-7b model, fine-tuned based on domain expertise, serves as an expert decision-making tool for transformer maintenance, providing accurate operational recommendations based on visual detection results. Finally, based on digital twin and inference models, a comprehensive platform has been developed to achieve real-time monitoring and intelligent maintenance of transformers.
Design and numerical simulation of CuBi2O4 solar cells with graphene quantum dots as hole transport layer under ideal and non-ideal conditions
Authors: Panachikkool Muhammad , Aparna E. T. , Asaithambi Perumal , Pandiyarajan T.
Published: January 2025

The simulation of ideal and non-ideal conditions using the SCAPS-1D simulator for novel structure Ag/FTO/CuBi2O4/GQD/Au was done for the first time. The recombination of charge carriers in CuBi2O4 is an inherent problem due to very low hole mobility and polaron transport in the valence band. The in-depth analysis of the simulation result revealed that Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs) can act as an appropriate hole transport layer (HTL) and can enhance hole transportation. The simulation was done under ideal and nonideal conditions. The non-ideal conditions include parasitic resistances, reflection losses, radiative, and Auger recombination whereas the ideal condition was studied without the inclusion of any losses. Under ideal conditions, the cell Ag/FTO/CuBi2O4/GQD/Au exhibited a photovoltaic (PV) parameter such as open circuit voltage (Voc), short circuit current (Jsc), fill factor (FF), photo conversion efficiency (PCE) are 1.39 V, 25.898 mA/cm2, 90.92%, and 32.79%, respectively. The effect of various cell parameters such as the thickness of the absorber layer, HTL layer, and FTO, acceptor and defect density, the bandgap of the absorber and HTL layer, series and shunt resistance, back and front contact materials, radiation and Auger recombination of the absorber layer, reflection losses on the efficiency of the proposed cell is analysed. The drastic reduction in all PV parameters was observed under non-ideal conditions and the PV parameters are Voc (1.22 V), Jsc (2.904 mA/cm2), FF (86.3), and PCE of 3.06%. The charge kinetics such as impedance, conductivity, and capacitance plots, and possible reasons for reductions in PV parameters are discussed in detail.
Very low prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (pfhrp2) gene deletion in the Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana tri-border
Authors: Pereira Mascarenhas Maria Eduarda , Louzada Jaime , Amorim Rosa Renato , de Assis Gabriela Maíra Pereira , Satiko Kano Flora , Oliveira-Ferreira Joseli , de Sousa Tais Nobrega
Published: January 2025

Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) have been an important diagnostic tool for detecting P. falciparum malaria in resource-limited settings. Most tests are designed to detect the Histidine-rich Protein 2 (HRP2). Parasites lacking pfhrp2 and its homologous pfhrp3 have been reported in several regions, with prevalence reaching 100% in certain areas. To better characterize P. falciparum isolates circulating in the Brazil-Venezuela-Guyana tri-border region, we performed a comprehensive analysis of 365 samples collected between 2016 and 2018. Molecular and immunological methods were employed to detect HRP2 and confirm pfhrp2/3 deletions. Our findings point to a low prevalence (1%) of pfhrp2-deleted parasites confirmed by the lack of HRP2 detection. Among false-negative HRP2-RDT tests (6%), most were attributed to low parasite densities. A merozoite surface protein 2 (msp2)-based intra-host diversity analysis suggested overall low genetic diversity. The pattern of HRP2 sequences resembled that has been previously described in areas along the Brazil and French Guiana border. In conclusion, we have found a low prevalence of pfhrp2-deleted parasites in the north-central Guiana Shield, which contrasts with the findings reported at the Peru border. Continued surveys are necessary to monitor the prevalence of pfhrp2 deletion in this area characterized by a high number of cross-border malaria cases.
Regulation of meristem and hormone function revealed through analysis of directly-regulated SHOOT MERISTEMLESS target genes
Authors: Lechon Tamara , Kent Nicholas A. , Murray James A. H. , Scofield Simon
Published: January 2025

The Arabidopsis Knotted1-like homeobox (KNOX) gene SHOOT MERISTEMLESS (STM) encodes a homeodomain transcription factor that operates as a central component of the gene regulatory network (GRN) controlling shoot apical meristem formation and maintenance. It regulates the expression of target genes that include transcriptional regulators associated with meristem function, particularly those involved in pluripotency and cellular differentiation, as well as genes involved in hormone metabolism and signaling. Previous studies have identified KNOX-regulated genes and their associated cis-regulatory elements in several plant species. However, little is known about STM-DNA interactions in the regulatory regions of target genes in Arabidopsis. Here, we identify and map STM binding sites in the Arabidopsis genome using global ChIP-seq analysis to reveal potential directly-regulated STM target genes. We show that in the majority of target loci, STM binds within 1 kb upstream of the TSS, with other loci showing STM binding at more distal enhancer sites, and we reveal enrichment of DNA motifs containing a TGAC and/or TGAT core in STM-bound target gene cis-regulatory elements. We further demonstrate that many STM-bound genes are transcriptionally responsive to altered levels of STM activity, and show that among these, transcriptional regulators with key roles in meristem and hormone function are highly represented. Finally, we use a subset of these target genes to perform Bayesian network analysis to infer gene regulatory associations and to construct a refined GRN for STM-mediated control of meristem function.
Age-related morphological changes of the pubic symphyseal surface: using three-dimensional statistical shape modeling
Authors: Kim Yuyoung , Lee Kang-Woo , Lee Sookyoung , Woo Eun Jin , Hu Kyung-Seok
Published: January 2025

Computational analysis of the pubic symphyseal surface is widely used for accurate age estimation, offering quantitative precision through the detection of subtle morphological changes. However, these methods often lack insights into the underlying morphological changes across different age groups. To bridge this gap, the study utilizes statistical shape modeling (SSM), a versatile tool capable of describing diverse morphological variations within populations. This study aimed to elucidate the direction and extent of these morphological changes, identify the contributing factors, and pinpoint key variations crucial for distinguishing between age groups. Computed tomography (CT) scans of 252 subjects from the National Forensic Service of South Korea were employed, subjected to preprocessing and landmark-based alignment. Through this approach, the study visualized and validated significant age-related morphological changes and highlighted the shape variations essential for differentiating between consecutive age groups. This study holds significance in elucidating the intricate nature of age-related morphological changes in the pubic symphyseal surface. Thus, these findings can serve as valuable cornerstones for enhancing age-at-death estimation techniques in forensic anthropology.
Differential effects of structurally different lysophosphatidylethanolamine species on proliferation and differentiation in pre-osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells
Authors: Makiyama Fumiaki , Kawase Shiori , Omi Aoi William , Tanikawa Yusuke , Kotani Taishi , Shirayama Teruki , Nishimura Naoyuki , Kurihara Taiga , Saito Naoto , Takahashi Jun , Uemura Takeshi
Published: January 2025

Lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) is a bioactive lipid mediator involved in diverse cellular functions. In this study, we investigated the effects of three LPE species, 1-palmitoyl LPE (16:0 LPE), 1-stearoyl LPE (18:0 LPE), and 1-oleoyl LPE (18:1 LPE) on pre-osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells. All LPE species stimulated cell proliferation and activated the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. MAPK/ERK1/2 activation by 16:0 LPE and 18:1 LPE was inhibited by the Gq/11 inhibitor YM-254890, while activation by 18:0 LPE was blocked by the Gi/o inhibitor pertussis toxin. Intracellular Ca2+ transients were triggered by 16:0 LPE and 18:1 LPE but not by 18:0 LPE, with YM-254890 suppressing these responses. These results suggest that 16:0 and 18:1 LPE act via Gq/11-coupled G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), and 18:0 LPE acts via Gi/o-coupled GPCRs. Furthermore, receptor desensitization experiments suggested that each LPE acts through distinct GPCRs. Interestingly, 18:0 LPE suppressed osteogenic differentiation, reducing mineralization, alkaline phosphatase activity, and osteogenic gene expression, whereas 16:0 LPE and 18:1 LPE had no such effects. These results suggest the physiological significance of LPEs in bone formation and indicate that different LPE species and their receptors play distinctive roles in this process.
Association between systemic immune inflammation index and cataract incidence from 2005 to 2008
Authors: Li Xiang , Du Guo-lei , Wu Shi-Nan , Sun Yi-qing , Zhang Si-Qi , Zhang Zhi-Jie , Tang Jia-feng
Published: January 2025

The objective of this study is to investigate the association between the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) and cataracts. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the 2005–2008 NHANES to examine the relationship between the SII and cataract prevalence. Covariates included age, race/ethnicity, gender, education level, marital status, Body Mass Index (BMI), smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association, while spline curve fitting explored potential non-linear relationships. Threshold analysis identified critical inflection points. To address age-related bias, Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was performed, aligning cataract patients with comparable non-cataract individuals for further evaluation. Our study included 3,623 participants, of whom 730 (20.15%) were diagnosed with cataracts. After adjusting for all covariates, multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that elevated levels of the SII were significantly associated with increased odds of cataracts (Model1: OR = 1.56; 95%CI [1.33–1.85]; Model2: OR = 1.55; 95%CI [1.32–1.84]; Model3: OR = 1.57; 95%CI [1.33–1.86]). In the spline curve fitting model, the relationship between ln-SII and cataract prevalence was non-linear (P < 0.001), with a critical inflection point identified at an SII of 428.38. SII levels remained significantly associated with cataract prevalence following PSM adjustments (Model 1: OR = 1.48; 95% CI [1.21–1.80]; Model 2: OR = 1.48; 95% CI [1.21–1.80]; Model 3: OR = 1.46; 95% CI [1.20–1.78]). Elevated SII levels are associated with a higher prevalence of cataracts, underscoring the pivotal role of systemic inflammation in cataract development. These findings indicate that SII could serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing cataract risk, further emphasizing the significance of managing systemic inflammation as a potential strategy for cataract prevention.
Identification of deposits from modern and ancient large tsunamis by means of environmental DNA
Authors: Shinozaki Tetsuya , Iguchi Akira , Nishijima Miyuki , Goto Kazuhisa , Fujino Shigehiro
Published: January 2025

We examined the potential of environmental DNA (eDNA) for identifying tsunami deposits in the geological record using lake-bottom sediments in the Tohoku region, Japan. The presence of eDNA from marine organisms in a lacustrine event deposit provides very strong evidence that the deposit was formed by an influx of water from the ocean. The diverse DNA assemblage in the deposit formed by the 2011 Tohoku-oki tsunami included DNA of marine origin indicating that eDNA has potential as an identifying proxy for tsunami deposits. Subsequently, we examined the applicability of eDNA for recognizing paleo-tsunami events using the deposits formed by the 869 CE Jogan tsunami and a prehistoric event (2400–2900 cal year BP). The taxa detected in the tsunami deposits were markedly different from those of the background sediments. Many taxa that were represented in the Jogan tsunami deposit were also detected in the layer immediately above the tsunami deposit. This layer was indistinguishable from the overlying peat by visual observation, but the eDNA results suggest that it is likely to be a muddy tsunami deposit. The results of this study indicate that eDNA has the potential to elucidate the origin of event deposits that have been difficult to identify.