bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ozone pollution contributes to the yield gap for beans in Uganda, East Africa, and is co-located with other agricultural stresses
Authors: Sharps K. , Foster J. , Vieno M. , Beck R. , Hayes F.
Published: April 2024

Air quality negatively impacts agriculture, reducing the yield of staple food crops. While measured data on African ground-level ozone levels are scarce, experimental studies demonstrate the damaging impact of ozone on crops. Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), an ozone-sensitive crop, are widely grown in Uganda. Using modelled ozone flux, agricultural surveys, and a flux-effect relationship, this study estimates yield and production losses due to ozone for Ugandan beans in 2015. Analysis at this scale allows the use of localised data, and results can be presented at a sub-regional level. Soil nutrient stress, drought, flood risk, temperature and deprivation were also mapped to investigate where stresses may coincide. Average bean yield losses due to ozone were 17% and 14% (first and second growing season respectively), equating to 184 thousand tonnes production loss. However, for some sub-regions, losses were up to 27.5% and other crop stresses also coincided in these areas. This methodology could be applied widely, allowing estimates of ozone impact for countries lacking air quality and/or experimental data. As crop productivity is below its potential in many areas of the world, changing agricultural practices to mitigate against losses due to ozone could help to reduce the crop yield gap.
Leptin signalling regulates transcriptional differences in granulosa cells from genetically obese mice but not the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Adamowski Marek , Sharma Yashaswi , Molcan Tomasz , Wołodko Karolina , Kelsey Gavin , Galvão António M.
Published: April 2024

Obesity is associated with increased ovarian inflammation and the establishment of leptin resistance. We presently investigated the role of impaired leptin signalling on transcriptional regulation in granulosa cells (GCs) collected from genetically obese mice. Furthermore, we characterised the association between ovarian leptin signalling, the activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and macrophage infiltration in obese mice. After phenotype characterisation, ovaries were collected from distinct group of animals for protein and mRNA expression analysis: (i) mice subjected to a diet-induced obesity (DIO) protocol, where one group was fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and another a standard chow diet (CD) for durations of 4 or 16 weeks; (ii) mice genetically deficient in the long isoform of the leptin receptor (ObRb; db/db); (iii) mice genetically deficient in leptin (ob/ob); and (iv) mice rendered pharmacologically hyperleptinemic (LEPT). Next, GCs from antral follicles isolated from db/db and ob/ob mice were subjected to transcriptome analysis. Transcriptional analysis revealed opposing profiles in genes associated with steroidogenesis and prostaglandin action between the genetic models, despite the similarities in body weight. Furthermore, we observed no changes in the mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3 inflammasome components in the ovaries of db/db mice or in markers of M1 and M2 macrophage infiltration. This contrasted with the downregulation of NLRP3 inflammasome components and M1 markers in ob/ob and 16-wk HFD-fed mice. We concluded that leptin signalling regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation and the expression of M1 markers in the ovaries of obese mice in an ObRb-dependent and ObRb-independent manner. Furthermore, we found no changes in the expression of leptin signalling and NLRP3 inflammasome genes in GCs from db/db and ob/ob mice, which was associated with no effects on macrophage infiltration genes, despite the dysregulation of genes associated with steroidogenesis in homozygous obese db/db. Our results suggest that: (i) the crosstalk between leptin signalling, NLRP3 inflammasome and macrophage infiltration takes place in ovarian components other than the GC compartment; and (ii) transcriptional changes in GCs from homozygous obese ob/ob mice suggest structural rearrangement and organisation, whereas in db/db mice the impairment in steroidogenesis and secretory activity.
Experimental study on flow characteristics of jet ventilation in crossflow in confined mine spaces
Authors: Wang Jue , Jiang Cheng , Zhou Xihua , Kang Jiayu , Yu Shixuan , Bai Gang
Published: April 2024

The increasing depth of mine excavation presents greater challenges in mine ventilation and in managing cooling energy consumption. Therefore, there is an urgent need for comprehensive research on jet ventilation influenced by low-speed crossflows. This study investigated the impact of flow velocity ratios (R) and jet exit diameters (d) on flow-field distribution and flow characteristics through velocity measurements and smoke flow visualization experiments. The results of the study revealed two distinct types of air lakes formed by jet ventilation in crossflow (JVIC), with one being wall-attached and the other suspended. Notably, a significant secondary flow phenomenon was observed in the near-field near the upper wall. Additionally, the deflection angle (θj) of JVIC decreases as R and d/D increase, leading to the formation and movement of a semi-confined point (SP) and a confined point (CP) in the -x direction. Moreover, the wall confinement effect diminishes the jet’s diffusion and deflection ability in the -z direction, leading to increased penetration in the x direction. Before the formation of the SP, the deflection section of the jet lengthens, followed by a rapid shortening upon its formation. Finally, the study further developed empirical equations for the jet axial trajectory and diffusion width.
Climate and land use shape the water balance and water quality in selected European lakes
Authors: Paule-Mercado Ma. Cristina , Rabaneda-Bueno Rubén , Porcal Petr , Kopacek Marek , Huneau Frederic , Vystavna Yuliya
Published: April 2024

This study provides insights into factors that influence the water balance of selected European lakes, mainly in Central Europe, and their implications for water quality. An analysis of isotopic, chemical and land use data using statistical and artificial intelligence models showed that climate, particularly air temperature and precipitation, played a key role in intensifying evaporation losses from the lakes. Water balance was also affected by catchment factors, notably groundwater table depth. The study shows that lakes at lower altitudes with shallow depths and catchments dominated by urban or crop cover were more sensitive to water balance changes. These lakes had higher evaporation-to-inflow ratios and increased concentrations of total nitrogen in the water. On the other hand, lakes at higher elevations with deeper depths and prevailing forest cover in the catchment were less sensitive to water balance changes. These lakes, which are often of glacial origin, were characterized by lower evaporation losses and thus better water quality in terms of total nitrogen concentrations. Understanding connections between water balance and water quality is crucial for effective lake management and the preservation of freshwater ecosystems.
Impact of bathymetry on Indian Ocean circulation in a nested regional ocean model
Authors: Rahman Raheema , Rahaman Hasibur
Published: April 2024

The Regional Indian Ocean model based on Modular Ocean Model (MOM4p1) was used to understand the importance of a realistic representation of bathymetry on Ocean General Circulation. The model has 1/4° uniform horizontal resolution and is forced with Coordinated Ocean-Ice Reference Experiments (CORE-II) inter-annual forcing with two simulations named BLND (realistic bathymetry) and OM3 (smoothed bathymetry), which only differ in the representation of bathymetry for the years 1992–2005. We also used recent reanalysis products from ORAS5 and SODA3 and ADCP observation to compare the subsurface currents. We show that by the inclusion of realistic bathymetry, there is a significant improvement in the upper ocean salinity, temperature, and currents, particularly near the coast. The salinity and temperature of the upper ocean are very close to the observed value near the coast. The bias in the salinity and temperature was reduced to half in BLND simulation compared to OM3, which led to a more realistic East India Coastal Current (EICC). We show the first evidence of a basin-wide cyclonic gyre over the Bay of Bengal at 1000 m depth during spring, which is just opposite to that of a basin-wide anti-cyclonic gyre at the surface. We found the presence of poleward EICC during spring at 1000 m and 2000 m depth, which is opposite to that of the surface. The presence of this deeper EICC structure is completely absent during fall. We show the presence of a boundary current along the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Island at a depth of 2000 m. The observed Wyrtki Jet (WJ) magnitude and spatial structure are most realistically reproduced in BLND simulation as compared to OM3 simulations. Both ORAS5 and SODA reanalysis products underestimate the WJ magnitude. The presence of the Maldives Islands is responsible for the westward extent of Equatorial Under Current (EUC). The presence of Maldives also creates wakes on the leeward side in the EUC zonal current. During fall, EUC is better defined in the eastern Equatorial Indian Ocean and lies at a depth of between 50 and 100 m, unlike its spring counterpart, in which its core is located slightly deeper, between 100 and 150 m depth. During peak summer months, June–July, a strong eastward zonal jet is present at 1000 m depth, similar to Wyrtki Jet (WJ). Inter-monsoon Jets, i.e., spring and fall jets, are also seen but are in the opposite direction, i.e., westward, unlike eastward in WJ.
Expression levels and DNA methylation profiles of the growth gene SHOX in cartilage tissues and chondrocytes
Authors: Hattori Atsushi , Seki Atsuhito , Inaba Naoto , Nakabayashi Kazuhiko , Takeda Kazue , Tatsusmi Kuniko , Naiki Yasuhiro , Nakamura Akie , Ishiwata Keisuke , Matsumoto Kenji , Nasu Michiyo , Okamura Kohji , Michigami Toshimi , Katoh-Fukui Yuko , Umezawa Akihiro , Ogata Tsutomu , Kagami Masayo , Fukami Maki
Published: April 2024

All attempts to identify male-specific growth genes in humans have failed. This study aimed to clarify why men are taller than women. Microarray-based transcriptome analysis of the cartilage tissues of four adults and chondrocytes of 12 children showed that the median expression levels of SHOX, a growth gene in the pseudoautosomal region (PAR), were higher in male samples than in female samples. Male-dominant SHOX expression was confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR for 36 cartilage samples. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing of four cartilage samples revealed sex-biased DNA methylation in the SHOX-flanking regions, and pyrosequencing of 22 cartilage samples confirmed male-dominant DNA methylation at the CpG sites in the SHOX upstream region and exon 6a. DNA methylation indexes of these regions were positively correlated with SHOX expression levels. These results, together with prior findings that PAR genes often exhibit male-dominant expression, imply that the relatively low SHOX expression in female cartilage tissues reflects the partial spread of X chromosome inactivation into PAR. Altogether, this study provides the first indication that sex differences in height are ascribed, at least in part, to the sex-dependent epigenetic regulation of SHOX. Our findings deserve further validation.
Association between Moraxella keratitis and advanced glycation end products
Authors: Inoue Hidenori , Toriyama Koji , Takahira Naoko , Murakami Shinobu , Miyamoto Hitoshi , Suzuki Takashi , Shiraishi Atsushi
Published: April 2024

Diabetes mellitus is recognized as a major predisposing factor forMoraxellakeratitis. However, how diabetes mellitus contributes toMoraxellakeratitis remains unclear. In this study, we examinedMoraxellakeratitis; based on the findings, we investigated the impact of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) deposition in the cornea of individuals with diabetic mellitus on the adhesion ofMoraxellaisolates to the cornea. A retrospective analysis of 27 culture-proven cases ofMoraxellakeratitis at Ehime University Hospital (March 2006 to February 2022) was performed.Moraxellaisolates were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Among the patients, 30.4% had diabetes mellitus and 22.2% had the predominant ocular condition of using steroid eye drops. The species identified wereMoraxella nonliquefaciensin 59.3% andMoraxella lacunatain 40.7% of patients. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, we assessed the effects ofM. nonliquefaciensadherence to simian virus 40-immortalized human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) with or without AGEs. The results demonstrated the number ofM. nonliquefaciensadhering to HCECs was significantly increased by adding AGEs compared with that in controls (p < 0.01). Furthermore, in the corneas of streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice treated with or without pyridoxamine, an AGE inhibitor, the number ofM. nonliquefaciensadhering to the corneas of diabetic mice was significantly reduced by pyridoxamine treatment (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the development ofMoraxellakeratitis may be significantly influenced by the deposition of AGEs on the corneal epithelium of patients with diabetes mellitus.
A detailed 3D MRI brain atlas of the African lungfish Protopterus annectens
Authors: Lozano Daniel , López Jesús M. , Chinarro Adrián , Morona Ruth , Moreno Nerea
Published: April 2024

The study of the brain by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evolutionary analyses is still in its incipient stage, however, it is particularly useful as it allows us to analyze detailed anatomical images and compare brains of rare or otherwise inaccessible species, evolutionarily contextualizing possible differences, while at the same time being non-invasive. A good example is the lungfishes, sarcopterygians that are the closest living relatives of tetrapods and thus have an interesting phylogenetic position in the evolutionary conquest of the terrestrial environment. In the present study, we have developed a three-dimensional representation of the brain of the lungfish Protopterus annectens together with a rostrocaudal anatomical atlas. This methodological approach provides a clear delineation of the major brain subdivisions of this model and allows to measure both brain and ventricular volumes. Our results confirm that lungfish show neuroanatomical patterns reminiscent of those of extant basal sarcopterygians, with an evaginated telencephalon, and distinctive characters like a small optic tectum. These and additional characters uncover lungfish as a remarkable model to understand the origins of tetrapod diversity, indicating that their brain may contain significant clues to the characters of the brain of ancestral tetrapods.
Blood urea nitrogen to serum albumin ratio as a new prognostic indicator in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Liu Shizhen , Qiu Chuangye , Li Wenxia , Li Xingai , Liu Fanna , Hu Guoqiang
Published: April 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often a common comorbidity in critically ill patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study explored the relationship between blood urea nitrogen to serum albumin ratio (BAR) and mortality in T2DM patients with CKD in intensive care unit (ICU). Patients were recruited from the Medical Information Mart database, retrospectively. The primary and secondary outcomes were 90-day mortality, the length of ICU stay, hospital mortality and 30-day mortality, respectively. Cox regression model and Kaplan–Meier survival curve were performed to explore the association between BAR and 90-day mortality. Subgroup analyses were performed to determine the consistency of this association. A total of 1920 patients were enrolled and divided into the three groups (BAR < 9.2, 9.2 ≤ BAR ≤ 21.3 and BAR > 21.3). The length of ICU stay, 30-day mortality, and 90-day mortality in the BAR > 21.3 group were significantly higher than other groups. In Cox regression analysis showed that high BAR level was significantly associated with increased greater risk of 90-day mortality. The adjusted HR (95%CIs) for the model 1, model 2, and model 3 were 1.768 (1.409–2.218), 1.934, (1.489–2.511), and 1.864, (1.399–2.487), respectively. Subgroup analysis also showed the consistency of results. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve analysis revealed similar results as well that BAR > 21.3 had lower 90-day survival rate. High BAR was significantly associated with increased risk of 90-day mortality. BAR could be a simple and useful prognostic tool in T2DM patients with CKD in ICU.
The voluntary utilization of visual working memory
Authors: Kvitelashvili Shalva , Kessler Yoav
Published: April 2024

While a vast amount of research has focused on understanding the capacity limits of visual working memory (VWM), little is known about how VWM resources are employed in unforced behavior and how they correlate with individual capacity constraints. We present a novel, openly available, and easy-to-administer paradigm enabling participants to freely utilize their VWM capacity. Participants had to reconstruct an array of colored squares. In each trial, they were allowed to alternate between the memory array and the reconstruction screen as many times as they wished, each time choosing how many items to reconstruct. This approach allowed us to estimate the number of utilized items, as well as the accuracy of the reconstruction. In addition, VWM capacity was measured using a change detection task. In two experiments, we show that participants tend to under-utilize their VWM resources, performing well below their capacity limits. Surprisingly, while the extent to which participants utilized their VWM was highly reliable, it was uncorrelated with VWM capacity, suggesting that VWM utilization is limited due to strategic considerations rather than capacity limits.
Evaluating the influence of various friction stir processing strategies on surface integrity of hybrid nanocomposite Al6061
Authors: Molla Ramezani Navid , Davoodi Behnam
Published: April 2024

To fundamentally investigate the influence of different friction stir processing (FSP) strategies, namely raster, spiral, and parallel in various passes on the surface integrity of hybrid aluminum nanocomposites reinforced by titanium oxide (TiO2), silicon carbide (SiC), and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles, various examinations were conducted. The surface integrity, comprising microstructural characterization, elemental composition, surface topography, roughness, waviness, and microhardness was studied by different analyses, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), optical microscopy (OM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Vickers microhardness machine in different zones. Results demonstrated that surface integrity and quality are dependent on the type of FSP strategy. SEM images revealed that a homogeneous distribution of the nanoparticles in the matrix is obtainable by the parallel and raster FSP strategies. Roughness and waviness measurements illustrated that the surface topography of the hybrid nanocomposite was symmetrical and improved by raster strategy and TiO2 + ZrO2 nanoparticle reinforcement. Furthermore, the two-pass FSP improved the arithmetic average surface value (Ra) such that the Ra of two passes decreased by 32.5% compared to a single one. The mean microhardness in the spiral, raster, and parallel pass strategies increased by ~ 45%, 37%, and 31%, respectively.
A randomized controlled clinical trial examining the effects of Cordyceps militaris beverage on the immune response in healthy adults
Authors: Ontawong Atcharaporn , Pengnet Sirinat , Thim-Uam Arthid , Munkong Narongsuk , Narkprasom Nukrob , Narkprasom Kanjana , Kuntakhut Kullanat , Kamkeaw Natakorn , Amornlerdpison Doungporn
Published: April 2024

Cordyceps militaris (L.) Link (C. militaris) contains various beneficial substances, including polysaccharides (galactomannan), nucleotides (adenosine and cordycepin), cordycepic acid, amino acids, and sterols (ergosterol and beta-sitosterol). It also contains other essential nutrients, such as protein, vitamins (E, K, B1, B2, and B12), and minerals (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and selenium). Due to the numerous health benefits of supplements and products containing C. militaris extract, their popularity has increased. However, the immunostimulant effect of C. militaris remains unclear. Therefore, this study developed a functional beverage from the submerged fermentation of C. militaris (FCM) and aimed to investigate the potential of FCM in healthy male and female volunteers in Phayao Province, Thailand. This study provides essential information for the development of healthy drink products. Healthy men and women were provided either FCM containing 2.85 mg of cordycepin or placebo for 8 weeks (n = 10 for each gender). The immune cell markers, immunoglobulins, and safety parameters were assessed initially at baseline and at 4 and 8 weeks. The NK cell activity markedly increased in the male FCM group from baseline (p = 0.049) to 4 weeks after receiving FCM. Compared with those in the placebo group, the NK activity in women who received FCM for 8 weeks significantly increased (p = 0.023) from baseline. Within-group analysis revealed that the IL-1β levels were markedly reduced in the male FCM group (p = 0.049). Furthermore, the IL-6 levels decreased from baseline in the female FCM group (p = 0.047). The blood sugar, lipid, and safety indices were not different between the experimental groups. FCM can potentially be developed as an immune-boosting supplement without liver, kidney, or blood component toxicity.
Interferon-gamma signaling promotes cartilage regeneration after injury
Authors: Kim Ju-Ryoung , Hong Bong-Ki , Pham Thi Hong Nhung , Kim Wan-Uk , Kim Hyun Ah
Published: April 2024

Osteoarthritis is a common chronic disease and major cause of disability and chronic pain in ageing populations. In this pathology, the entire joint is involved, and the regeneration of articular cartilage still remains one of the main challenges. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying cartilage regeneration in young mice using a full-thickness cartilage injury (FTCI) model. FTCI-induced cartilage defects were created in the femoral trochlea of young and adult C57BL/6 mice. To identify key molecules and pathways involved in the early response to cartilage injury, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of cartilage RNA at 3 days after injury. Young mice showed superior cartilage regeneration compared to adult mice after cartilage injury. RNA-seq analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes associated with the immune response, particularly in the IFN-γ signaling pathway and qRT-PCR analysis showed macrophage polarization in the early phase of cartilage regeneration (3 days) in young mice after injury, which might promote the removal of damaged or necrotic cells and initiate cartilage regeneration in response to injury. IFN-γR1- and IFN-γ-deficient mice exhibited impaired cartilage regeneration following cartilage injury. DMM-induced and spontaneous OA phenotypes were exacerbated in IFN-γR1−/− mice than in wild-type mice. Our data support the hypothesis that IFN-γ signaling is necessary for cartilage regeneration, as well as for the amelioration of post-traumatic and age-induced OA.
Assessing scale-dependency of climate risks in coffee-based agroforestry systems
Authors: Byrareddy Vivekananda M. , Kath Jarrod , Kouadio Louis , Mushtaq Shahbaz , Geethalakshmi Vellingiri
Published: April 2024

Agroforestry is a management strategy for mitigating the negative impacts of climate and adapting to sustainable farming systems. The successful implementation of agroforestry strategies requires that climate risks are appropriately assessed. The spatial scale, a critical determinant influencing climate impact assessments and, subsequently, agroforestry strategies, has been an overlooked dimension in the literature. In this study, climate risk impacts on robusta coffee production were investigated at different spatial scales in coffee-based agroforestry systems across India. Data from 314 coffee farms distributed across the districts of Chikmagalur and Coorg (Karnataka state) and Wayanad (Kerala state) were collected during the 2015/2016 to 2017/2018 coffee seasons and were used to quantify the key climate drivers of coffee yield. Projected climate data for two scenarios of change in global climate corresponding to (1) current baseline conditions (1985–2015) and (2) global mean temperatures 2 °C above preindustrial levels were then used to assess impacts on robusta coffee yield. Results indicated that at the district scale rainfall variability predominantly constrained coffee productivity, while at a broader regional scale, maximum temperature was the most important factor. Under a 2 °C global warming scenario relative to the baseline (1985–2015) climatic conditions, the changes in coffee yield exhibited spatial-scale dependent disparities. Whilst modest increases in yield (up to 5%) were projected from district-scale models, at the regional scale, reductions in coffee yield by 10–20% on average were found. These divergent impacts of climate risks underscore the imperative for coffee-based agroforestry systems to develop strategies that operate effectively at various scales to ensure better resilience to the changing climate.
Functional characterization of plant specific Indeterminate Domain (IDD) transcription factors in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Rajendran Sujeevan , Kang Yu Mi , Yang In Been , Eo Hye Bhin , Baek Kyung Lyung , Jang Seonghoe , Eybishitz Assaf , Kim Ho Cheol , Je Byeong Il , Park Soon Ju , Kim Chul Min
Published: April 2024

Plant-specific transcription factors (TFs) are responsible for regulating the genes involved in the development of plant-specific organs and response systems for adaptation to terrestrial environments. This includes the development of efficient water transport systems, efficient reproductive organs, and the ability to withstand the effects of terrestrial factors, such as UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and soil-related stress factors, and evolutionary advantages over land predators. In rice and Arabidopsis, INDETERMINATE DOMAIN (IDD) TFs are plant-specific TFs with crucial functions, such as development, reproduction, and stress response. However, in tomatoes, IDD TFs remain uncharacterized. Here, we examined the presence, distribution, structure, characteristics, and expression patterns of SlIDDs. Database searches, multiple alignments, and motif alignments suggested that 24 TFs were related to Arabidopsis IDDs. 18 IDDs had two characteristic C2H2 domains and two C2HC domains in their coding regions. Expression analyses suggest that some IDDs exhibit multi-stress responsive properties and can respond to specific stress conditions, while others can respond to multiple stress conditions in shoots and roots, either in a tissue-specific or universal manner. Moreover, co-expression database analyses suggested potential interaction partners within IDD family and other proteins. This study functionally characterized SlIDDs, which can be studied using molecular and bioinformatics methods for crop improvement.
Quantitative analysis of the intensity distribution of optical rogue waves
Authors: Rácz Éva , Spasibko Kirill , Manceau Mathieu , Ruppert László , Chekhova Maria V. , Filip Radim
Published: April 2024

The field of optical rogue waves is a rapidly expanding topic with a focus on explaining their emergence. To complement this research, instead of providing a microscopic model that generates extreme events, we concentrate on a general quantitative description of the observed behavior. We explore two complementary top-down approaches to estimating the exponent describing the power-law decaying distribution of optical rogue waves observed in supercontinuum generated in a single-mode fiber in the normal-dispersion regime by applying a highly fluctuating pump. The two distinct approaches provide consistent results, outperforming the standard Hill estimator. Further analysis of the distributions reveals the breakdown of power-law behavior due to pump depletion and detector saturation. Either of our methods is adaptable to analyze extreme-intensity events from arbitrary experimental data.
Tree growth and survival are more sensitive to high rainfall than drought in an aseasonal forest in Malaysia
Authors: O’Brien Michael J. , Hector Andy , Ong Robert , Philipson Christopher D.
Published: April 2024

Global change research has largely focused on the effects of drought on forest dynamics while the importance of excessive rainfall that can cause waterlogged soils has largely been assessed in riparian zones or seasonally flooded sites. However, increased rainfall may also cause decreased growth and survival of tree species in lowland aseasonal tropical forests due to increased risk from potentially more extensive and frequent waterlogged soils. We used a Bayesian modelling approach on a tree dynamics dataset from 2004 to 2017 to test the concomitant effects of rainfall excess and deficit and dry period length on tree growth and survival across a network of experimentally planted trees in a primary aseasonal forest in Malaysia. Growth declined in 48% of the species and survival decreased in 92% of the species during periods of high rainfall while as little as 4% of species had decreased growth or survival with drought and long dry periods. Climate change is projected to cause more frequent and severe rainfall deficit and excess, and our results suggest increased rainfall may have stronger negative effects on aseasonal tropical forests than that of severe drought.
Limited oxygen in standard cell culture alters metabolism and function of differentiated cells
Authors: Tan Joycelyn , Virtue Sam , Norris Dougall M , Conway Olivia J , Yang Ming , Bidault Guillaume , Gribben Christopher , Lugtu Fatima , Kamzolas Ioannis , Krycer James R , Mills Richard J , Liang Lu , Pereira Conceição , Dale Martin , Shun-Shion Amber S , Baird Harry JM , Horscroft James A , Sowton Alice P , Ma Marcella , Carobbio Stefania , Petsalaki Evangelia , Murray Andrew J , Gershlick David C , Nathan James A , Hudson James E , Vallier Ludovic , Fisher-Wellman Kelsey H , Frezza Christian , Vidal-Puig Antonio , Fazakerley Daniel J
Published: April 2024

The in vitro oxygen microenvironment profoundly affects the capacity of cell cultures to model physiological and pathophysiological states. Cell culture is often considered to be hyperoxic, but pericellular oxygen levels, which are affected by oxygen diffusivity and consumption, are rarely reported. Here, we provide evidence that several cell types in culture actually experience local hypoxia, with important implications for cell metabolism and function. We focused initially on adipocytes, as adipose tissue hypoxia is frequently observed in obesity and precedes diminished adipocyte function. Under standard conditions, cultured adipocytes are highly glycolytic and exhibit a transcriptional profile indicative of physiological hypoxia. Increasing pericellular oxygen diverted glucose flux toward mitochondria, lowered HIF1α activity, and resulted in widespread transcriptional rewiring. Functionally, adipocytes increased adipokine secretion and sensitivity to insulin and lipolytic stimuli, recapitulating a healthier adipocyte model. The functional benefits of increasing pericellular oxygen were also observed in macrophages, hPSC-derived hepatocytes and cardiac organoids. Our findings demonstrate that oxygen is limiting in many terminally-differentiated cell types, and that considering pericellular oxygen improves the quality, reproducibility and translatability of culture models.
Better nanoscience through open, collaborative, and critical discussions
Authors: Rost Nathanne Cristina Vilela , Said Maha , Gharib Mustafa , Lévy Raphaël , Boem Federico
Published: April 2024

Material science publications are the outcome of research, but they can contain errors. We advocate for post publication peer review as a way to collectively improve self-correction of science.
Revealing the Na storage behavior of graphite anodes in low-concentration imidazole-based electrolytes
Authors: Zhao Wei , Wang Chunting , Cheng Zhenjie , Zheng Cheng , Yao Qian , Pan Jun , Ma Xiaojian , Yang Jian
Published: April 2024

Low-concentration imidazole-based electrolytes were employed in graphite anodes for sodium-ion batteries via a co-intercalation mechanism. The resulting battery exhibits an impressive cycle life of 1800 cycles with a capacity retention of 84.6%.
Inflammatory-stimuli-responsive turn-on NIR fluorogenic theranostic prodrug: adjuvant delivery of diclofenac and hydrogen sulfide attenuates acute inflammatory disorders
Authors: Sufian Abu , Parihar Nidhi , Badirujjaman Md , Barman Pallavi , Kesarwani Rahul , Pemmaraju Deepak B. , Bhabak Krishna P.
Published: April 2024

ROS-responsive fluorogenic prodrug DCF-HS was developed for the delivery of the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac and carbonyl sulfide (COS) with turn-on NIR fluorescence and the subsequent hydrolysis of COS to H2S by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase.
Comparative outcomes of the voltage-dependent current density, charge transportation and rectification ratio of electronic devices fabricated using mechanically flexible supramolecular networks
Authors: Pal Baishakhi , Majumdar Santanu , Pal Indrajit , Lepcha Gerald , Dey Amiya , Ray Partha Pratim , Dey Biswajit
Published: April 2024

Flexible supramolecular material-based metal–semiconductor junction-type Schottky barrier diodes with high rectification ratios and excellent charge transport properties have been achieved.
Quantifying drought-driven temperature impacts on ozone disinfection credit and bromate control
Authors: Abada Bilal , Atkinson Ariel J. , Wert Eric C.
Published: April 2024

Climate change and drought can lead to unprecedented changes in surface water temperature requiring utilities to examine their ozone system's disinfection capability while minimizing bromate production.
A rhodium-catalyzed cascade C–H activation/annulation strategy for the expeditious assembly of pyrrolidinedione-fused 1,2-benzothiazines
Authors: Wu Yinsong , Shi Guanghao , Liu Yanan , Kong Yangzilin , Wu Mengdi , Wang Demao , Wu Xiaobing , Shang Yongjia , He Xinwei
Published: April 2024

We have developed a cascade annulation strategy triggered by rhodium(iii)-catalyzed C–H activation for the expeditious assembly of pyrrolidinedione-fused 1,2-benzothiazines from free NH-sulfoximines with maleimides under mild conditions.
HFIP-mediated C-3-alkylation of indoles and synthesis of indolo[2,3-b]quinolines & related natural products
Authors: Rashid Auqib , Lone Waseem I. , Dogra Preeti , Rashid Showkat , Bhat Bilal A.
Published: April 2024

An expeditious metal free C-3 alkylation of indoles and its NIS-mediated deviation to indolo[2,3-b]quinolines is reported. Applications of these strategies in accessing bioactive natural products have also been demonstrated.
Pnictogen bonding in imide derivatives for chiral folding and self-assembly
Authors: Wang Zhuoer , Cao Zhaozhen , Hao Aiyou , Xing Pengyao
Published: April 2024

This work emphasizes the general existence of pnictogen bonding in aromatic diimides, suggesting its vital role in chiral folding and self-assembly with controllable chirality and chiroptical properties. It provides thoughts for the design of imide-based functional compounds.
Universal cell membrane camouflaged nano-prodrugs with right-side-out orientation adapting for positive pathological vascular remodeling in atherosclerosis
Authors: Qin Xian , Zhu Li , Zhong Yuan , Wang Yi , Luo Xiaoshan , Li Jiawei , Yan Fei , Wu Guicheng , Qiu Juhui , Wang Guixue , Qu Kai , Zhang Kun , Wu Wei
Published: April 2024

The preparation of right-side-out-orientated coupling-driven ROS-sensitive nanoparticles on the inner leaflet of the cell membrane for positively regulating cell phenotypic conversion in atherosclerosis.
Dioxygen atom co-doping g-C3N4 for boosted photoreduction activity of CO2 and mechanistic investigation
Authors: Jiang Zhang , Guo Mingnv , Yang Zhongqing , Fang Ruiming , Wang Ziqi , Ran Jingyu
Published: April 2024

Visible-light photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide with the help of photocatalysts has become an important means to mitigate the greenhouse effect.
Synthesis of a pyridine-based covalent organic framework as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhong Shixi , Zhao He , Ji Yingming , Li Xiuhua , Shu Ting , Cui Zhiming , Liao Shijun
Published: April 2024

Covalent organic framework (COF) materials with redox activity have emerged as promising electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
The influence of PEGylated gold nanoparticles on the solidification of alcohols
Authors: Martín-Sánchez Camino , Sánchez-Iglesias Ana , Barreda-Argüeso José Antonio , González Jesús , Rodríguez Fernando
Published: April 2024

The influence of PEGylated gold nanoparticles on the solidification of ethanol and methanol–ethanol 4 : 1 under the application of hydrostatic pressure is investigated by means of ruby luminescence, Raman spectroscopy, and gold nanoparticles plasmonic resonance.
Achieving outstanding energy storage behaviors via combinatorial optimization design in BNT-based relaxor ferroelectric ceramics under medium–low electric fields
Authors: Yang Jian , Zhu Xiaolong , Wang Haotian , Zhang Yixiao , Guan Pengfei , Yan Shiguang , Zheng Ming
Published: April 2024

We have successfully achieved high energy storage density and efficiency under low electric fields through the compositional synergetic design of a ternary solid solution system, Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–BaZr0.3Ti0.7O3–NaNbO3.
Review of Eye Diseases Detection and Classification Using Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Aizaldeen Abdullah Ahmed , Aldhahab Ahmed , Al Abboodi Hanaa M.
Published: April 2024

Automated diagnosis of eye diseases using machine and deep learning models has become increasingly popular. Glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, Myopia, and age-related macular degeneration are common eye diseases that can cause severe damage. It is crucial to detect eye diseases early to prevent any potentially serious consequences. Early detection of eye disease is vital for effective treatment. Doing in-depth reading to identify any potential signs of eye disease is highly recommended. This paper will review all machine learning models built to detect and classify eye diseases in addition to helping grasp all limitations and challenges in this field. Recognizing eye diseases is a difficult task that typically requires several years of medical experience. This research is to be conducted to serve as a starting point for finding the most versatile solution. This research aims to review eye disease classification using deep learning models, including VGG16, ResNet, and Inception. The general classification model consists of these steps: The first step is to collect the globally obtainable datasets for the eye disease and pre-process them to ensure the generalization of experiments. The goal is to train the model to recognize disease symptoms instead of tweaking the outcomes for a specific dataset section. With the successful deployment of deep learning techniques for image classification and object recognition, research is now directed towards deep learning techniques instead of traditional handcrafted methods. One possible solution for the eye diseases classification challenge is to use a pre-trained deep CNN model for representation and feature extraction. This solution can be followed by classifier methods, such as support vector machines (SVM), multilayer perceptron (MLP), etc. It has been detected that CNN-based methods learned on large-scale marked datasets can be used for eye disease classification tasks with limited training datasets.
Revolutionizing COVID-19 Diagnosis: Advancements in Chest X-ray Analysis through Customized Convolutional Neural Networks and Image Fusion Data Augmentation
Authors: Alzamili Zainab , Danach Kassem , Frikha Mondher
Published: April 2024

COVID-19 is produced by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, has wrought extensive damage. Globally, Patients present a wide range of challenges, which has forced medical professionals to actively seek out cutting-edge therapeutic approaches and technology advancements. Machine learning technologies have significantly enhanced the comprehension and control of the COVID-19 issue. Machine learning enables computers to emulate human-like behavior by efficiently recognizing patterns and extracting valuable insights. Cognitive capacity and aptitude for handling substantial quantities of data. Amidst the battle against COVID-19, firms have promptly employed machine-learning expertise in several ways, such as improving consumer communication, enhance comprehension of the COVID-19 transmission mechanism and expedite research and treatment. This work is centered around the utilization of deep learning techniques for predictive modeling. in individuals impacted with COVID-19. A data augmentation phase is included, utilizing multiexposure picture fusion techniques. Chest X-ray images of healthy individuals and COVID-19 patients make up our dataset.
Evaluating Performance: A Study of Encrypted vs. Unencoded Signals in SISO-OFDM with LS and MMSE Estimations
Authors: Abbas Imran Morteza , Jasim Harbi Yahya
Published: April 2024

The continuous progress in digital communication has played a crucial role in meeting the increasing need for faster data rates. Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), a pivotal methodology in this progression, attains improved data rates through the efficient utilisation of densely packed carriers within a specified channel bandwidth. This article focuses on the investigation of channel estimation in OFDM systems. the study of search lies in its examination of the performance consequences associated with the incorporation or lack thereof of a convolutional encoder in OFDM systems and looks at how well two well-known channel estimation algorithms, Least Square (LS) and Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE), work in 4-Quadrature amplitude modulation (4-QAM) OFDM systems with and without a convolutional encoder with a comprehensive evaluation of the efficacy of the OFDM system across various channel conditions. It uses MATLAB implementations as its main tool. The findings of the study indicate that the MMSE algorithm, despite its higher complexity, exhibits superior performance in comparison to the LS algorithm when combined with a convolutional encoder. The gain in terms of bit error rate (BER) improvement approximately 12 dB. This represents the logarithmic scale improvement in BER from BER1(uncoded) to BER2(coded) at the same the energy per bit to noise power spectral density ratio (Eb/N0) of 40 dB.
Mechanical Behavior of Pre-Test-Curing Nanoclay-Treated Gypseous Sand
Authors: Aldarraji Suha A. , Ganjian Navid , Mahmood Mohammed Sh.
Published: April 2024

This work investigates the effect of pre-test curing at various durations on the stress-settlement of gypseous sand soil treated with varying percentages of nanoclay. The tests are performed on a soil sample from Al-Jameh district in northern Al-Najaf city, Iraq. The soil sample is disturbed and remolded in the Oedometer cell. The remolded specimen will be at 90% of the maximum dry density from the standard Proctor test. Four data sets related to the percentages of adding nanoclay, 0, 3, 6 and 12 %. Each data set includes three groups of pre-test curing periods (Tc), 0, 1 and 4 days. For each tested specimen, a gradual incremental normal stress is applied, i.e., 50, 100 and 200 kPa. For the soil without nanoclay, it was an interesting result for the performance under all vertical stresses that there is a slight decrease in the final settlement. This situation may be attributed to the re-bonded of the particles by the gypsum during the curing time. There was a clear decrease in the final settlement for the nanoclay-treated soil specimens compared to the natural state of the soil (without nanoclay). While a significant decrease in settlement is recorded for specimens with nanoclay (NC) of 6%, which is the best percentage of nanoclay.
Design and Implementation IOT2ALK cloud Computing Platform for IOT Applications
Authors: Mohsin Zainab Khudhur , Al-Mashhadi Haider M. , Tahan Marjan Naderan
Published: April 2024

An integration between the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing can potentially leverage the utilization of both sides. As the IoT-based system is mostly composed of the interconnection of pervasive and constrained devices, it can take advantage of the virtually unlimited resources of cloud entities, i.e., storage and computation services, to store and process its sensed data. In this study, we examine the design and implementation of IoT and cloud computing platforms. The proposed system consists of two main components: hardware and software. Many experiments are used to gather data and upload it to the framework. The software is an IoT2ALK platform that is designed and implementation using front- and back-end techniques that can connect any IoT applications to it. Several experiments are implemented to ensure the effectiveness of the platform. The platform depends on connecting the IoT devices to it and using communication protocols like HTTP to transfer the data from the IoT devices to the platform. Another way to gather data is by uploading a CSV file to the platform after filling it with the required data. The system can collect, store, analyze, and process the data in an efficient manner
Exploring the Intersection of Biological and Artificial Neural Networks in Architectural Contexts, Followed by Investigation of Algorithms Supporting the Evolution of the Design Process
Authors: Jasim Raghad N , Al-Qaraghuli Anwar S. , A Nasar Zuhair
Published: April 2024

This review explores the relationship between neural networks and architecture, specifically in the domains of facade design, interior design, and building construction. It investigates two types of neural networks: biological, representing the human brain’s neural system, and artificial, which are computational systems inspired by the brain’s structure and functions. The study provides a descriptive overview of these neural networks and their applications across various fields. It further examines how these networks integrate with architecture at different levels. The study emphasizes the concept of “neural architecture,” which combines artificial neural networks (ANNs) with architecture to generate multiple design possibilities and uncover hidden patterns. ANNs are utilized in creating smart buildings and optimizing structural design processes to reduce costs. Additionally, the study explores “neuroarchitecture,” which explores the interaction of biological neural networks (BNNs) with architecture, focusing on the impact of built environments on the brain and behavior. It combines principles from neuroscience, architecture, and environmental psychology. The analysis of case studies demonstrates the importance of AI tools such as ‘pix2pix’, GCNNs, DCGAN, CycleGAN, and StyleGAN in modernizing architectural design by blending traditional and contemporary styles and enhancing the creative process.