bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Publication: Proposal for Points of Consideration for Pluripotent Stem Cell Culture
Authors: Aoi Takashi , Asaka Isao , Akutsu Hidenori , Ito Yuzuru , Kataoka Ken , Kanda Yasunari , Kojima Hajime , Sekino Yuko , Suemori Hirofumi , Nakagawa Masato , Nakamura Kazuaki , Nakamura Yukio , Fujii Makiko , Furue Miho , Yamazaki Daiju ,   Japanese Working Group for Consideration of Good Cell Culture Practice
Published: March 2024

Human pluripotent stem cells, such as human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells, are used in basic research and various applied fields, including drug discovery and regenerative medicine. Stem cell technologies have developed rapidly in recent years, and the supply of culture materials has improved. This has facilitated the culture of human pluripotent stem cells and has enabled an increasing number of researchers and bioengineers to access this technology. At the same time, it is a challenge to share the basic concepts and techniques of this technology among researchers and technicians to ensure the reproducibility of research results. Human pluripotent stem cells differ from conventional somatic cells in many aspects, and many points need to be considered in their handling, even for those experienced in cell culture. Therefore, we have prepared this proposal, “Points of Consideration for Pluripotent Stem Cell Culture,” to promote the effective use of human pluripotent stem cells. This proposal includes seven items to be considered and practices to be confirmed before using human pluripotent stem cells. These are laws/guidelines and consent/material transfer agreements, diversity of pluripotent stem cells, culture materials, thawing procedure, media exchange and cell passaging, freezing procedure, and culture management. We aim for the concept of these points of consideration to be shared by researchers and technicians involved in the cell culture of pluripotent stem cells. In this way, we hope the reliability of research using pluripotent stem cells can be improved, and cell culture technology will advance.
Sex Differences in Stress Susceptibility as a Key Mechanism Underlying Depression Risk
Authors: Mengelkoch Summer , Slavich George M.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Although females are at relatively greater risk for a variety of disorders, including depression, the biological mechanisms underlying this striking health disparity remain unclear. To address this issue, we highlight sex differences in stress susceptibility as a key mechanism potentially driving this effect and describe the interacting inflammatory, hormonal, epigenomic, and social-environmental mechanisms involved.

Recent Findings

Using the Social Signal Transduction Theory of Depression as a theoretical framework, women’s elevated risk for depression may stem from a tight link between life stress, inflammation, and depression in women. Further, research finds hormonal contraceptive use alters cortisol and inflammatory reactivity to acute stress in ways that may increase depression risk in females. Finally, beyond established epigenetic mechanisms, mothers may transfer risk for depression to their female offspring through stressful family environments, which influence stress generation and stress-related gene expression.

Together, these findings provide initial, biologically plausible clues that may help explain the relatively greater risk for depression in females vs. males. Looking forward, much more research is needed to address the longstanding underrepresentation of females in biomedical research on the biology of stress and depression.
Aloe vera gel relieves cadmium triggered hepatic injury via antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic routes
Authors: Hassan Rasha E. , Saleh Eman M. , Hamdy Germine M.
Published: March 2024

Aloe vera (AV) gel extracted from fresh AV leaves was chosen in this study to evaluate its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities against cadmium (Cd) -induced liver injury. Forty Wistar male adult rats were equally divided into four groups. Group I (standard control) ingested with 2.5 ml/kg b.w. of physiological saline. Group II (Cd-intoxicated) received 3 mg/kg b.w./day of CdCl2 dissolved in saline. Group III (AV) received 200 mg/kg b.w./day of AV gel dissolved in saline. Group IV (Cd+AV) ingested with 200 mg/kg b.w./day of AV gel solution along with 3 mg/kg b.w. CdCl2. All groups were ingested orally by gavage for 3 consecutive weeks. Paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) and HSP70 were measured in serum. The deposited Cd level, nitric oxide content, lipid peroxidation, collagen-1 (COL-1), and metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) levels were all determined in liver tissue homogenates. Gene expression of NF-κB and IL-6, Bax, and Bcl2, as well as immunohistochemistry analysis of activated caspase-3, was performed. Results showed that ingestion of AV gel greatly relieved all oxidative stress due to Cd exposure, modulated the NF-κB, IL-6, Bax, and Bcl2 expression levels, and improved the apoptotic state. In conclusion, AV gel confirmed its potential ameliorating effect against liver injury induced due to Cd exposure.
Protectors and Modern Princesses: A Qualitative Investigation of Gender Ideals Among Young Migrants in Berlin
Authors: Wojnicka Katarzyna , Nowicka Magdalena
Published: March 2024

The debates at the nexus of migration and gender often focus on the supposedly diverging ideals Muslims and Christians have about gender. Migrant femininities and masculinities are framed in contrast to liberal, Western values and they undermine the efforts for more gender equality in Western societies. Only a few studies have addressed non-Muslim migrants' construction of, and their perceptions of, the femininities and masculinities of others. To fill this gap, we present the findings of a qualitative social research project where 43 young people aged 16 to 29 shared with us their perceptions regarding gender ideals. In our analysis, we utilize theories developed within women's studies and critical men and masculinities scholarship and adopt an intersectional lens to investigate how young first- and second-generation migrants in Berlin with roots in different world regions imagine their own and others' ideals of masculinity and femininity. Like non-migrant youth, our research participants want their life partnerships to be based on gender equality. Contrary to this, their ideals of femininity and masculinity embrace traditional gender roles, and they mirror the racialized relations in German society. We do not argue that the migrant youth's gender ideals are significantly shaped by their ethnic or religious belonging, and thus they do differ from those of non-migrant youth. However, racial othering is relevant for these migrants' images of their life partners and should be taken under consideration while designing specific policies aimed at increasing levels of gender equality in multi-diverse societies.
Fuel Wood Pellets Produced from Sawdust of Scots Pine Mature and Juvenile Wood: Self-Heating and Off-Gassing Tests at Industrial Scale
Authors: Siwale Workson , Finell Michael , Frodeson Stefan , Henriksson Gunnar , Berghel Jonas
Published: March 2024

This study investigated self-heating and off-gassing of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) wood pellets made from sawdust generated from separated mature and juvenile wood. The pellets were produced at an industrial scale and stored in large piles of about 7.2 tonnes. The production process involved drying the sawdust using three different methods and to varying moisture contents. The results indicated significant influences of both raw material type (F(6) = 61.97, p < 0.05) and drying method (F(2) = 65.38, p < 0.05) on the self-heating of the pellets. The results from the multiple regression analysis further showed that both the raw material type and pellet moisture content significantly influenced the temperature increase, with strong correlations observed for pellets produced using low-temperature drying (F(3, 14) = 83.52, multiple R2 = 0.95, p < 0.05), and medium temperature drying (F(3, 13) = 62.05, multiple R2 = 0.93, p < 0.05). The pellets produced from fresh mature wood sawdust were found to be more prone to self-heating and off-gassing while steam drying the sawdust at high temperature and pressure led to a significant reduction in heat and gas generation across all materials. The heightened self-heating and off-gassing in mature wood pellet can be attributed to a higher proportion of sapwood in the raw material. The probable explanations to the observed differences are in line with biological mechanisms for self-heating and off-gassing, as well as the chemical oxidation of fatty and resin acids.
Multistrain Probiotics Alleviate Diarrhea by Modulating Microbiome-Derived Metabolites and Serotonin Pathway
Authors: Jeong Jin-Ju , Jin Yoo-Jeong , Ganesan Raja , Park Hee Jin , Min Byeong Hyun , Jeong Min Kyo , Yoon Sang Jun , Choi Mi Ran , Sharma Satya Priya , Jang You Jin , Min Uigi , Lim Jong-Hyun , Na Kyeong Min , Choi Jieun , Han Sang Hak , Ham Young Lim , Lee Do Yup , Kim Byung-Yong , Suk Ki Tae
Published: March 2024

Diarrhea, a common gastrointestinal symptom in health problems, is highly associated with gut dysbiosis. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the effect of multistrain probiotics (Sensi-Biome) on diarrhea from the perspective of the microbiome-neuron axis. Sensi-Biome (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Lactococcus lactis) was administered in a 4% acetic acid–induced diarrhea rat model at concentrations of 1 × 108 (G1), 1 × 109 (G2), and 1 × 1010 CFU/0.5 mL (G3). Diarrhea-related parameters, inflammation-related cytokines, and stool microbiota analysis by 16S rRNA were evaluated. A targeted and untargeted metabolomics approach was used to analyze the cecum samples using liquid chromatography and orbitrap mass spectrometry. The stool moisture content (p < 0.001), intestinal movement rate (p < 0.05), and pH (p < 0.05) were significantly recovered in G3. Serotonin levels were decreased in the multistrain probiotics groups. The inflammatory cytokines, serotonin, and tryptophan hydroxylase expression were improved in the Sensi-Biome groups. At the phylum level, Sensi-Biome showed the highest relative abundance of Firmicutes. Short-chain fatty acids including butyrate, iso-butyrate, propionate, and iso-valeric acid were significantly modified in the Sensi-Biome groups. Equol and oleamide were significantly improved in the multistrain probiotics groups. In conclusion, Sensi-Biome effectively controls diarrhea by modulating metabolites and the serotonin pathway.
Hydrological and geochemical properties of bottom ash landfills
Authors: Ingold Philipp , Weibel Gisela , Wanner Christoph , Gimmi Thomas , Churakov Sergey V.
Published: March 2024

In Switzerland, municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash is deposited in open landfills, which leads to its interaction with rainwater and thus the formation of a polluted leachate. This study attempts to provide a better understanding of the hydraulic and geochemical properties of bottom ash landfills by combining field and laboratory investigations. The results show that a bottom ash landfill can be described as a generally unsaturated body with several layers of different grain sizes. Three different water domains with variable hydraulic and geochemical properties were identified in the landfill: (1) zones of preferential flow, (2) a reservoir of mobile porewater, and (3) an immobile porewater reservoir. Preferential flow systems account for approximately 5–10 vol.%. The landfill layering is primarily responsible for the formation of various flow systems during heavy rainfall events. The domains and reservoirs provide variable volumetric contribution to the leachate, depending on precipitation rates and duration of dry periods. Sampling of leachate during heavy rainfall events revealed dilution effects for Na (− 59–61% compared to concentrations prior to the event), Ca (− 44–47%), Cl (− 57–77%), and SO4 (− 35–47%), while pH (+ 7–8%) and concentrations of Al (+ 368–1416%), Cu (+ 7–58%), Cr (+ 29–48%), V (+ 100–118%), and Zn (+ 289%) increased significantly. The findings of this study serve as a basis for the development of a hydrogeochemical model of a bottom ash landfill, which allows better prediction of the future evolution of leachate quality.
Influence and optimization of swirler parameters on elbow wear of deep coal fluidization pipeline transportation system
Authors: Zhao Shaodi , Bao Jiusheng , Ge Shirong , Wang Zhongbin , Yin Yan , Huang Congguang
Published: March 2024

Elbow wear is a major threat to the multiphase pipeline transportation industry, which has a negative impact on the stable operation of the transportation system. In order to find the wear reduction methods of elbows in the fluidization pipeline transportation system for 2000-meter-deep coal resources, the swirler was installed upstream of the elbows, and wear simulations and tests of three kinds of elbows were carried out. The results showed that the maximum wear rate (MWR) of elbows increased and then decreased along the elbow angle. Due to the different directions of gravity, the heavy wear position (HWP) of the horizontal-vertical (H-V) elbow was in front of the vertical-horizontal (V-H) elbow. Because the downstream portion of the horizontal-horizontal (H-H) elbow was still a horizontal pipe, the HWP of the H-H elbow almost covered the whole elbow. The swirler placed upstream of the elbows could make the particles at the elbow move to the intrados of the elbows, resulting in less collision between the particles and the extrados of the elbows, thus reducing the wear of the elbows. The wear reduction effects of swirlers on three different elbows were favorably connected with the guide vane angle (GVA) and negatively correlated with the guide vane length (GVL), decreased first and then increased as the guide vane height (GVH) increased, and were little affected by the guide vane number (GVN) and the guide vane thickness (GVT). The mathematical models between the MWR of the elbows and guide vane parameters were established. By bench tests, the wear reduction effect of three kinds of elbows under the optimal guide vane parameters was 58.4%, 76.9%, and 78.6%, respectively. The errors between the bench test results and the simulation results were around 10%.
Waste to Resource: Surface Modification of Electric Arc Furnace Flue Dust by Ball Milling and In Situ Carbonization
Authors: Gülcan Mehmet Feryat , Karahan Billur Deniz
Published: March 2024

In this article, instead of synthesizing the electrode active material using expensive precursors that lead to high carbon emissions to the atmosphere during fabrication, an alternative engineering approach is presented for the utilization of the electric arc furnace flue dust, which is an industrial waste, as anode material in lithium-ion batteries. In this scope, firstly ball milling of the flue dust with citric acid is applied and then in situ carbonization conditions are optimized by pyrolyzing the mixture at different temperatures (600 °C and 750 °C) and times (4 h and 6 h). Every sample delivers capacities greater than graphite. Structural, morphological, and chemical characterization results demonstrate that the designed method not only promotes the formation of a nanometer-thick carbon layer formation over the particles but also induces partial phase transformation in the structure. The best performance is achieved when citric acid is used as the carbon source and the ball-milled powder is treated at 600 °C for 4 h in nitrogen (C6004): It delivers 714 mAh g−1 capacity under a current load of 50 mA g−1 after 100 cycles. This research is expected to set an example for the utilization of different industrial wastes in high value-added applications, such as energy storage.

Graphical Abstract
Managerial insights for AI/ML implementation: a playbook for successful organizational integration
Authors: Abonamah Abdullah A. , Abdelhamid Neda
Published: March 2024

In the contemporary business environment, the assimilation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is pivotal for fostering innovation and ensuring long-term growth. This paper examines the strategic aspects of AI/ML adoption, emphasizing that its success rests not just on technology but also on strategic alignment, collaboration, and robust leadership. Highlighting the indispensable role of senior leaders, the paper offers a managerial framework for AI/ML integration, ensuring its alignment with organizational goals. Using real-world examples, the paper presents how AI/ML can be strategically embedded to enhance customer interactions, streamline operations, and unveil new revenue streams. The objective is to provide senior leaders with an understanding, enabling them to harness AI/ML effectively, ensuring their organizations remain at the innovation forefront in a digital age dominated by disruptive AI/ML technologies.
IoT-enabled smart cities: a hybrid systematic analysis of key research areas, challenges, and recommendations for future direction
Authors: Omrany Hossein , Al-Obaidi Karam M. , Hossain Mohataz , Alduais Nayef A. M. , Al-Duais Husam S. , Ghaffarianhoseini Amirhosein
Published: March 2024

Cities are expected to face daunting challenges due to the increasing population in the near future, putting immense strain on urban resources and infrastructures. In recent years, numerous studies have been developed to investigate different aspects of implementing IoT in the context of smart cities. This has led the current body of literature to become fairly fragmented. Correspondingly, this study adopts a hybrid literature review technique consisting of bibliometric analysis, text-mining analysis, and content analysis to systematically analyse the literature connected to IoT-enabled smart cities (IESCs). As a result, 843 publications were selected for detailed examination between 2010 to 2022. The findings identified four research areas in IESCs that received the highest attention and constituted the conceptual structure of the field. These include (i) data analysis, (ii) network and communication management and technologies, (iii) security and privacy management, and (iv) data collection. Further, the current body of knowledge related to these areas was critically analysed. The review singled out seven major challenges associated with the implementation of IESCs that should be addressed by future studies, including energy consumption and environmental issues, data analysis, issues of privacy and security, interoperability, ethical issues, scalability and adaptability as well as the incorporation of IoT systems into future development plans of cities. Finally, the study revealed some recommendations for those interconnected challenges in implementing IESCs and effective integrations within policies to support net-zero futures.
Conscientious Objection in Medicine
Authors: Wicclair Mark
Published: March 2024

The Element examines ethical and conceptual issues about conscientious objection in medicine. Concepts analyzed include conscientious objection, conscientious provision, conscience, moral complicity, and moral integrity. Several ongoing ethical controversies are identified and critically analyzed. One is a disagreement about whether conscientious objection is compatible with physicians' professional obligations. The Element argues that incompatibilists fail to offer a justifiable specification of professional obligations that supports their position. The Element also argues that a challenge for compatibilists who support a reason-giving requirement is to specify justifiable and unambiguous criteria for reviewing objectors' reasons. Arguments for and against requirements to inform and refer patients are critically analyzed, and an alternative, context-dependent requirement is offered. Another subject of controversy is about the justifiability of asymmetry between responses to conscientious objectors and conscientious providers. Typically, only the former receive accommodation. The Element critically examines arguments for asymmetry and maintains that none provides a convincing justification.
Four Treaties in One: The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement
Authors: Bodansky Daniel
Published: March 2024

Combine and conquer. That was the strategy of those seeking to develop an international regime to address marine biological diversity found in areas beyond national jurisdiction—areas that constitute half of the world's surface and a much greater proportion of its habitable volume. States had quite different visions for the regime. On the one hand, the European Union and other developed countries such as Australia and New Zealand wanted a conservation-oriented regime providing for the establishment of marine protected areas and setting rules for environmental impact assessments; on the other hand, developing countries wanted a resource-oriented regime that would allow them to get what they consider their fair share of the benefits of marine genetic resources and would assist them with capacity building and technology transfer. Only by combining these disparate topics in a single package was agreement possible.
Data and statecraft: why and how states localize data
Authors: Han Sanghyun
Published: March 2024

This paper explores the motives and mechanisms behind data localization implemented by states to protect data, which is essential to emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. Despite the significant negative aspects of data localization for states, the practice has become increasingly prevalent, leading to the unexplored question of why states choose to implement it. This suggests that data localization is a form of economic means derived from digital technologies and employed by states to serve political objectives. Focusing on the data in platforms, the theoretical mechanism of data localization is captured in light of two factors: network perception and security externality. Network perception pertains to a state’s perception of the positive network effect generated by platforms, while security externality refers to a state’s consideration of the security implications in relation to the economic benefits derived from the positive network effect, serving the national interest in domestic and/or international contexts. To substantiate these theoretical propositions, the paper employs a comparative case study approach where Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia have been chosen as empirical cases based on the selection strategy. The paper bridges the concept of economic statecraft with digital technologies, fosters interdisciplinary discussions, and offers policy implications.
The future of AI politics, policy, and business
Authors: Best Eric , Robles Pedro , Mallinson Daniel J.
Published: March 2024

Our aim with this special issue on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) politics, policy, and business is to give space to considering how the balalnce between risk and reward from AI technologies is and perhaps should be pursued by the public and private sectors. Ultimately, private firms and regulators will need to work collaboratively, given the complex networks of actors involved in AI development and deployment and the potential for the technology to alter existing policy regimes. We begin the introduction of this special issue of Business & Politics with a discussion of the growth in AI technology use and discussions of appropriate governance, followed by a consideration of how AI-related politics, policy, and business intersect. We then summarize the contributions of the authors in this issue and conclude with thoughts about how political science, public administration, and public policy scholars have much to offer, as well as much to study, the establishment of effective AI governance.
A new MIS 5 to MIS 2 speleothem record from Sandkraal Cave on the South African Cape south coast
Authors: Braun Kerstin , Bar-Matthews Miryam , Ayalon Avner , Matthews Alan , Zilberman Tami , Zolotova Natalya , Cowling Richard M. , Karkanas Panagiotis , Cawthra Hayley C. , Fisher Erich C. , Edwards R. Lawrence , Li Xianglei , Marean Curtis W.
Published: March 2024

We present new stable oxygen and carbon isotope composite records (δ18O, δ13C) of speleothems from Sandkraal Cave 1 (SK1) on the South African south coast for the time interval between 104 and 18 ka (with a hiatus between 48 and 41 ka). Statistical comparisons using kernel-based correlation analyses and semblance analyses based on continuous wavelet transforms inform the relationships of the new speleothem records to other proxies and their changes through time. Between 105 and ~70 ka, changes of speleothem δ18O values at SK1 are likely related to rainfall seasonality. Variations of δ13C values are associated with changes of vegetation density, prior carbonate precipitation (PCP), CO2 degassing in the cave, and possibly variations of the abundance of C3 and C4 grasses in the vegetation. The relationships of δ18O with other proxies shift between ~70 and 48 ka (Marine Isotope Stages 4–3) so that both stable isotope records now reflect CO2 degassing, evaporation, and PCP. Similar relationships also continue after the hiatus for the deposition phase between 42 and 18 ka. Our findings support modeling results suggesting drier conditions in the study area when the Southern Hemisphere westerlies are shifted north and the paleo–Agulhas Plain is exposed.
The sup-norm problem beyond the newform
Authors: ASSING EDGAR
Published: March 2024

In this paper we take up the classical sup-norm problem for automorphic forms and view it from a new angle. Given a twist minimal automorphic representation
$\pi$
we consider a special small
$\mathrm{GL}_2(\mathbb{Z}_p)$
-type V in
$\pi$
and prove global sup-norm bounds for an average over an orthonormal basis of V. We achieve a non-trivial saving when the dimension of V grows.
Gravity of the crime and early release: A comparative study of early release practices in international tribunals
Authors: Fernández-Pacheco Estrada Cristina
Published: March 2024

The gravity of the crime committed has been considered ‘a factor of fundamental importance’ when deciding the early release of a person convicted by the ad hoc tribunals. Hence, most of the decisions rendered by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, for Rwanda and the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals include this factor and determine whether it weighs in favour of or against early release. Conversely, when deciding the reduction of the sentence in the case of Thomas Lubanga, the International Criminal Court Panel stated in 2015 that ‘unlike at other international criminal tribunals, the gravity of the crime committed is not a factor that in itself weighs for or against reduction of sentence’. In fact, none of the decisions delivered by the International Criminal Court to date mention gravity. This drastic change reflects the differences in the corresponding statutes and rules of procedure and evidence and ultimately seeks to avoid a double count since the gravity of the crime committed is arguably the most important factor in the determination of the sentence. This divergence is examined in greater detail in this article, drawing on comparative, empirical research to establish the role played by gravity in early release decisions. Ultimately, it is argued that although the explanatory power generally attributed to gravity is often overrated, it is essential to a thorough early release assessment, whether included as a prerequisite per se or indirectly integrated into a wider prognosis of the risk of recidivism.
Characteristics of Dissolved Organic Matter in Uranium Hosting Aquifers and Potential Molecular Transformation During Neutral In Situ Leaching
Authors: Lu Chongsheng , Xiu Wei , Yang Bing , Lian Guoxi , Zhang Tianjing , Bi Erping , Guo Huaming
Published: March 2024

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is widespread in uranium (U) hosting aquifer, a key substance affecting CO2 + O2 in situ leaching (ISL) of U by consuming injected O2. However, molecular composition and molecular transformation of DOM are poorly understood in this aquifer during the U mining. To address this issue, Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry was applied to investigate DOM molecules in groundwater samples and rock samples collected from a U mining aquifer. The high proportion of labile tyrosine‐like component and BIX value in monitoring wells (BM) indicated the biological origin of DOM. CHOS and aliphatic were the major components of water‐soluble organic matter (WSOM) in U‐bearing rocks, but CHO and highly unsaturated structures with high oxygen (HUSHO) were the main components of DOM in BM. The ISL led to the release of WSOM and the oxidation of DOM, which accounted for 24.5%–57.4% and 39.1%–65.7% of expected DOM, respectively. Potential molecular transformations (PMTs) results showed that the intragroup transformations dominated, and remarkable transformations from CHON and CHONS to CHO occurred during ISL. The positive net PMTs of condensed aromatic structure (CAS), aromatic structures (AS), and aliphatic suggested that they were transformed from HUSLO and HUSHO. A gradual decrease in (DBE−O)/Cwa and a gradual increase in NOSCwa indicated that the saturated degree and oxidation state of DOM increased during mining. This work successfully identified molecular characteristics of DOM in U hosting aquifer, and proposed a paradigm of DOM transformation pathways during ISL.
Hyper‐Local Temperature Prediction Using Detailed Urban Climate Informatics
Authors: Li Peiyuan , Sharma Ashish
Published: March 2024

The accurate modeling of urban microclimate is a challenging task given the high surface heterogeneity of urban land cover and the vertical structure of street morphology. Recent years have witnessed significant efforts in numerical modeling and data collection of the urban environment. Nonetheless, it is difficult for the physical‐based models to fully utilize the high‐resolution data under the constraints of computing resources. The advancement in machine learning (ML) techniques offers the computational strength to handle the massive volume of data. In this study, we proposed a modeling framework that uses ML approach to estimate point‐scale street‐level air temperature from the urban‐resolving meso‐scale climate model and a suite of hyper‐resolution urban geospatial data sets, including three‐dimensional urban morphology, parcel‐level land use inventory, and weather observations from a sensor network. We implemented this approach in the City of Chicago as a case study to demonstrate the capability of the framework. The proposed approach vastly improves the resolution of temperature predictions in cities, which will help the city with walkability, drivability, and heat‐related behavioral studies. Moreover, we tested the model's reliability on out‐of‐sample locations to investigate the modeling uncertainties and the application potentials to the other areas. This study aims to gain insights into next‐gen urban climate modeling and guide the observation efforts in cities to build the strength for the holistic understanding of urban microclimate dynamics.
High-throughput and simultaneous inertial separation of tumor cells and clusters from malignant effusions using spiral-contraction-expansion channels
Authors: Zhu Zhixian , Ren Hui , Wu Dan , Ni Zhonghua , Xiang Nan
Published: March 2024

Tumor cell clusters are regarded as critical factors in cancer pathophysiology, and increasing evidence of their higher treatment resistance and metastasis compared to single tumor cells has been obtained. However, existing cell separation methods that are designed for single tumor cells cannot be used to simultaneously purify tumor cell clusters. To address this problem, we demonstrated a microfluidic approach for the high-throughput, continuous-flow ternary separation of single tumor cells, tumor cell clusters, and WBCs from clinical pleural or abdominal effusions by coupling slanted spiral channels and periodic contraction-expansion arrays. We first systematically explored the influence of particle size and flow rate on particle focusing. The separation performance indicated that 94.0% of WBCs were removed and more than 97% of MDA-MB-231 tumor cells were recovered at a high flow rate of 3500 µL/min. Moreover, more than 90% of tumor cell clusters were effectively preserved after separation. Finally, we successfully applied our device for the ternary separation of single tumor cells, tumor cell clusters, and WBCs from different malignant effusions collected from patients with metastatic cancer. Thus, our spiral-contraction-expansion device has potential as a sample pretreatment tool for the cytological diagnosis of malignant effusions.
A comprehensive analysis of APOE genotype effects on human brain structure in the UK Biobank
Authors: Heise Verena , Offer Alison , Whiteley William , Mackay Clare E. , Armitage Jane M. , Parish Sarah
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk is increased in carriers of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele and decreased in ε2 allele carriers compared with the ε3ε3 genotype. The aim of this study was to determine whether: the APOE genotype affects brain grey (GM) or white matter (WM) structure; and if differences exist, the age when they become apparent and whether there are differential effects by sex. We used cross-sectional magnetic resonance imaging data from ~43,000 (28,494 after pre-processing) white British cognitively healthy participants (7,446 APOE ε4 carriers) aged 45–80 years from the UK Biobank cohort and investigated image-derived phenotypes (IDPs). We observed no statistically significant effects of APOE genotype on GM structure volumes or median T2* in subcortical structures, a measure related to iron content. The volume of white matter hyperintensities differed significantly between APOE genotype groups with higher volumes in APOE ε4ε4 (effect size 0.14 standard deviations [SD]) and ε3ε4 carriers (effect size 0.04 SD) but no differences in ε2 carriers compared with ε3ε3 carriers. WM integrity measures in the dorsal (mean diffusivity [MD]) and ventral cingulum (MD and intracellular volume fraction), posterior thalamic radiation (MD and isotropic volume fraction) and sagittal stratum (MD) indicated lower integrity in APOE ε4ε4 carriers (effect sizes around 0.2–0.3 SD) and ε3ε4 (effect sizes around 0.05 SD) carriers but no differences in ε2 carriers compared with the APOE ε3ε3 genotype. Effects did not differ between men and women. APOE ε4 homozygotes had lower WM integrity specifically at older ages with a steeper decline of WM integrity from the age of 60 that corresponds to around 5 years greater “brain age”. APOE genotype affects various white matters measures, which might be indicative of preclinical AD processes. This hypothesis can be assessed in future when clinical outcomes become available.
Association between body mass index and age of disease onset with clinical outcomes in paediatric-onset Crohn’s Disease (CD): a UK nation-wide analyses using the NIHR-IBD BioResource
Authors: Aljilani Bayan , Tsintzas Kostas , Siervo Mario , Moran Gordon W.
Published: March 2024

Background

The evidence on the relationship between adiposity and disease outcomes in paediatric Crohn’s disease (CD) is limited and lacks consensus.

Aim

To investigate the relationship between (a) body mass index (BMI) and clinical CD outcomes (hospitalisation, surgery, disease behaviour, biologic use, extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs)) and (b) the age of CD onset with clinical outcomes.

Design

Clinical outcomes were examined in CD patients diagnosed at age <17 years and enroled in the National Institute for Health Research IBD-UK BioResource at a median age of 24 years. All outcomes and BMI were recorded at the time of enrolment. Participants were categorised into normal (<25 kg/m2) and high (≥25 kg/m2) BMI. Age at disease diagnosis was categorised into pre-puberty/early puberty (<11 years), puberty (11–14 years) and post-puberty (15–17 years). Spearman rank correlation was used to test the associations between continuous variables and chi-square test to compare categorical variables.

Results

848 participants with CD were included (51.8% males) and median age at diagnosis was 14 years. Participants with high BMI experienced a greater frequency of EIMs (P = 0.05) than those with low BMI (1 type of EIM: 18.5% vs. 13.2%, respectively; ≥2 types of EIMs: 7.8% vs. 5.6%, respectively). Age at diagnosis and BMI showed weak correlations with corticosteroid use (ρ = 0.08, P = 0.03 and ρ = −0.09, P = 0.01; respectively). An early diagnosis (<11 years) was associated with higher occurrence of stenosing and penetrating disease behaviour (P = 0.01) and hospitalisations (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A higher BMI and an earlier age of disease onset are associated with worse CD clinical presentation.
Short-depth QAOA circuits and quantum annealing on higher-order ising models
Authors: Pelofske Elijah , Bärtschi Andreas , Eidenbenz Stephan
Published: March 2024

We present a direct comparison between QAOA (Quantum Alternating Operator Ansatz), and QA (Quantum Annealing) on 127 qubit problem instances. QAOA with p = 1, 2 rounds is executed on the 127 qubit heavy-hex graph gate-model quantum computer ibm_washington, using on-device grid-searches for angle finding, and QA is executed on two Pegasus-chip D-Wave quantum annealers. The problems are random Ising models whose connectivity matches heavy-hex graphs and the Pegasus graph connectivity, and optionally include hardware-compatible cubic terms (ZZZ terms). The QAOA circuits are heavily optimized and of extremely short depth, with a CNOT depth of 6 per round, which allows whole chip usage of the heavy-hex lattice. QAOA and QA are both compared against simulated annealing and the optimal solutions are computed exactly using CPLEX. The noiseless mean QAOA expectation values for p = 1, 2 are computed using classical light-cone based simulations. We find QA outperforms QAOA on the evaluated devices.
Inspiratory muscles pre-activation in young swimmers submitted to a tethered swimming test: effects on mechanical, physiological, and skin temperature parameters
Authors: Soares de Araujo Lara , Marostegan Anita Brum , Menezes Scariot Pedro Paulo , Bordon Orsi Juan , Cirino Carolina , Papoti Marcelo , Gobatto Claudio Alexandre , Manchado-Gobatto Fúlvia Barros
Published: March 2024

Inspiratory muscles pre-activation (IMPA) has been studied to improve subsequent performance in swimming. However, the effects of IMPA on various parameters in swimmers are still unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of IMPA on the mechanical parameters, physiological responses, and their possible correlations with swimming performance. A total of 14 young swimmers (aged 16 ± 0 years) underwent a 30-s all-out tethered swimming test, preceded or not by IMPA, a load of 40% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and with a volume of 2 sets of 15 repetitions. The mechanical (strength, impulse, and fatigue index) and physiological parameters (skin temperature and lactatemia) and the assessment of perceived exertion and dyspnea were monitored in both protocols. The IMPA used did not increase the swimming force, and skin temperature, decrease blood lactate concentration, or subjective perception of exertion and dyspnea after the high-intensity tethered swimming exercises. Positive correlations were found between mean force and blood lactate (without IMPA: r = 0.62, P = 0.02; with IMPA: r = 0.65, P = 0.01). The impulse was positively correlated with blood lactate (without IMPA: r = 0.71, P < 0.01; with IMPA: r = 0.56, P = 0.03). Our results suggest that new IMPA protocols, possibly with increased volume, should be developed in order to improve the performance of young swimmers.
Epidemiologic and genetic associations of female reproductive disorders with depression or dysthymia: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ling Shuyi , Dai Yuqing , Weng Ruoxin , Li Yuan , Wu Wenbo , Zhou Ziqiong , Zhong Zhisheng , Zheng Yuehui
Published: March 2024

Observational studies have previously reported an association between depression and certain female reproductive disorders. However, the causal relationships between depression and different types of female reproductive disorders remain unclear in terms of direction and magnitude. We conducted a comprehensive investigation using a two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomization analysis, incorporating publicly available GWAS summary statistics. Our aim was to establish a causal relationship between genetically predicted depression and the risk of various female reproductive pathological conditions, such as ovarian dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS), ovarian cysts, abnormal uterine and vaginal bleeding(AUB), endometriosis, leiomyoma of the uterus, female infertility, spontaneous abortion, eclampsia, pregnancy hypertension, gestational diabetes, excessive vomiting in pregnancy, cervical cancer, and uterine/endometrial cancer. We analyzed a substantial sample size, ranging from 111,831 to 210,870 individuals, and employed robust statistical methods, including inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger, weighted median, and MR-PRESSO, to estimate causal effects. Sensitivity analyses, such as Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO, leave-one-out analysis, and funnel plots, were also conducted to ensure the validity of our results. Furthermore, risk factor analyses were performed to investigate potential mediators associated with these observed relationships. Our results demonstrated that genetic predisposition to depression or dysthymia was associated with an increased risk of developing PCOS (OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.28–1.59; P = 6.66 × 10–11), ovarian cysts (OR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.20–1.55; P = 1.57 × 10–6), AUB (OR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.20–1.66; P = 3.01 × 10–5), and endometriosis (OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.27–1.70; P = 2.21 × 10–7) after Bonferroni correction, but no evidence for reverse causality. Our study did not find any evidence supporting a causal or reverse causal relationship between depression/dysthymia and other types of female reproductive disorders. In summary, our study provides evidence for a causal relationship between genetically predicted depression and specific types of female reproductive disorders. Our findings emphasize the importance of depression management in the prevention and treatment of female reproductive disorders, notably including PCOS, ovarian cysts, AUB, and endometriosis.
Quantitative proteomics reveals tissue-specific, infection-induced and species-specific neutrophil protein signatures
Authors: Sollberger Gabriel , Brenes Alejandro J. , Warner Jordan , Arthur J. Simon C. , Howden Andrew J. M.
Published: March 2024

Neutrophils are one of the first responders to infection and are a key component of the innate immune system through their ability to phagocytose and kill invading pathogens, secrete antimicrobial molecules and produce extracellular traps. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow, circulate within the blood and upon immune challenge migrate to the site of infection. We wanted to understand whether this transition shapes the mouse neutrophil protein landscape, how the mouse neutrophil proteome is impacted by systemic infection and perform a comparative analysis of human and mouse neutrophils. Using quantitative mass spectrometry we reveal tissue-specific, infection-induced and species-specific neutrophil protein signatures. We show a high degree of proteomic conservation between mouse bone marrow, blood and peritoneal neutrophils, but also identify key differences in the molecules that these cells express for sensing and responding to their environment. Systemic infection triggers a change in the bone marrow neutrophil population with considerable impact on the core machinery for protein synthesis and DNA replication along with environmental sensors. We also reveal profound differences in mouse and human blood neutrophils, particularly their granule contents. Our proteomics data provides a valuable resource for understanding neutrophil function and phenotypes across species and model systems.
Proteomic characterization of hUC-MSC extracellular vesicles and evaluation of its therapeutic potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Li Shuang , Zhang Jiayi , Liu Xinxing , Wang Ningmei , Sun Luyao , Liu Jianling , Liu Xingliang , Masoudi Abolfazl , Wang Hui , Li Chunxia , Guo Chunyan , Liu Xifu
Published: March 2024

In recent years, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC) extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been used as a cell replacement therapy and have been shown to effectively overcome some of the disadvantages of cell therapy. However, the specific mechanism of action of EVs is still unclear, and there is no appropriate system for characterizing the differences in the molecular active substances of EVs produced by cells in different physiological states. We used a data-independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative proteomics method to identify and quantify the protein composition of two generations EVs from three different donors and analysed the function and possible mechanism of action of the proteins in EVs of hUC-MSCs via bioinformatics. By comparative proteomic analysis, we characterized the different passages EVs. Furthermore, we found that adaptor-related protein complex 2 subunit alpha 1 (AP2A1) and adaptor-related protein complex 2 subunit beta 1 (AP2B1) in hUC-MSC-derived EVs may play a significant role in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by regulating the synaptic vesicle cycle signalling pathway. Our work provides a direction for batch-to-batch quality control of hUC-MSC-derived EVs and their application in AD treatment.
Association between drinking behaviors, sleep duration, and depressive symptoms
Authors: Kim Yujin , Kim Jihye , Oh Jae Won , Lee San
Published: March 2024

Excessive alcohol consumption has been consistently linked to depression. This study, utilizing nationwide samples from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 21,440) examined the association between drinking behaviors and depressive symptoms while also exploring the influence of sleep duration on this relationship. Demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related factors were included as covariates in the multivariable logistic regression analysis to assess their relationships with depressive symptoms. Based on their sleep duration, the participants were divided into subgroups to explore how sleep duration affects the relationship between drinking behaviors and depressive symptoms. Moderate alcohol consumption (1–4 times a month) was associated with reduced likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms in women (p = 0.024), with a similar trend observed among men (p = 0.001). Men who started consuming alcohol before the age of 19 had a higher likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms (p = 0.048). Only women who consumed more alcohol per occasion (≥ 7 drinks) had higher odds of depressive symptoms (p = 0.001). This study revealed complex factors that influence depressive symptoms, including alcohol consumption and sleep duration. This highlights the importance of tailored interventions based on sleep duration and sociodemographic characteristics for preventing and treating depression.
Exploring biased activation characteristics by molecular dynamics simulation and machine learning for the μ-opioid receptor
Authors: Chen Jianfang , Gou Qiaoling , Chen Xin , Song Yuanpeng , Zhang Fuhui , Pu Xuemei
Published: March 2024

Using aMD simulations with an interpretable deep learning model, the biased activation of μOR with two distinct biased agonists is revealed.
Interband electronic transitions and optical phonon modes in size-dependent multiferroic BiFeO3 nanoparticles
Authors: Sahoo Priyambada , Dixit Ambesh
Published: March 2024

Bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) multiferroic nanoparticles are synthesized using a low-temperature sol–gel auto-combustion technique.
Phonon thermophoresis of crystalline nanoparticles in liquids
Authors: Semenov Semen N. , Schimpf Martin E.
Published: March 2024

Our nonequilibrium thermodynamic model is used to examine the role of thermal phonons in the thermophoresis.