bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic causal role of body mass index in multiple neurological diseases
Authors: Wang Xie , Chen Hong , Chang Ze , Zhang Juan , Xie Daojun
Published: March 2024

Body mass index (BMI) is a crucial health indicator for obesity. With the progression of socio-economic status and alterations in lifestyle, an increasing number of global populations are at risk of obesity. Given the complexity and severity of neurological diseases, early identification of risk factors is vital for the diagnosis and prognosis of such diseases. In this study, we employed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis utilizing the most comprehensive genome-wide association study (GWAS) data to date. We selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are unaffected by confounding factors and reverse causality as instrumental variables. These variables were used to evaluate the genetic and causal relationships between Body Mass Index (BMI) and various neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Ischemic Stroke (IS), and Epilepsy (EP). The Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) analysis indicated that there was no significant causal relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) indicators and PD (P-value = 0.511), AD (P-value = 0.076), ALS (P-value = 0.641), EP (P-value = 0.380). However, a causal relationship was found between BMI indicators and MS (P-value = 0.035), and IS (P-value = 0.000), with the BMI index positively correlated with the risk of both diseases. The Cochran’s Q test for MR-IVW showed no heterogeneity in the MR analysis results between the BMI index and the neurological diseases (P > 0.05). The Egger intercept test for pleiotropy revealed no horizontal pleiotropy detected in any of the neurological diseases studied (P > 0.05). It was found that there was no causal relationship between BMI and PD, AD, ALS, EP, and a genetic causal association with MS, and IS. Meanwhile, the increase in BMI can lead to a higher risk of MS and IS, which reveals the critical role of obesity as a risk factor for specific neurological diseases in the pathogenesis of the diseases.
Tracing two decades of carbon emissions using a network approach
Authors: Guidi Gianluca , Mastrandrea Rossana , Facchini Angelo , Squartini Tiziano , Kennedy Christopher
Published: March 2024

According to the guidelines of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, carbon emissions are attributed to the producers of goods and services. This approach has been challenged by recent literature, advocating an attribution criterion based on consumers, i.e. accounting for the carbon embedded into the goods imported by each country. Quantifying the effectiveness of such a consumption-based accounting requires understanding the complex structure of the graph induced by the flows of emissions between world countries. To this aim, we have considered a balanced panel of a hundred of countries and constructed the corresponding Carbon Trade Network for each of the past twenty years. Our analysis highlights the tendency of each country to behave either as a ‘net producer’—or ‘net exporter’—of emissions or as a ‘net consumer’—or ‘net importer’—of emissions; besides, it reveals the presence of an unexpected, positive feedback: despite individual exchanges having become less carbon-intensive, the increasing trade activity has ultimately risen the amount of emissions directed from ‘net exporters’ towards ‘net importers’. Adopting a consumption-aware accounting would re-distribute responsibility between these two groups, possibly reducing disparities.
An observational analysis of frailty in combination with loneliness or social isolation and their association with socioeconomic deprivation, hospitalisation and mortality among UK Biobank participants
Authors: Politis Marina , Crawford Lynsay , Jani Bhautesh D. , Nicholl Barbara I. , Lewsey Jim , McAllister David A. , Mair Frances S. , Hanlon Peter
Published: March 2024

Frailty, social isolation, and loneliness have individually been associated with adverse health outcomes. This study examines how frailty in combination with loneliness or social isolation is associated with socioeconomic deprivation and with all-cause mortality and hospitalisation rate in a middle-aged and older population. Baseline data from 461,047 UK Biobank participants (aged 37–73) were used to assess frailty (frailty phenotype), social isolation, and loneliness. Weibull models assessed the association between frailty in combination with loneliness or social isolation and all-cause mortality adjusted for age/sex/smoking/alcohol/socioeconomic-status and number of long-term conditions. Negative binomial regression models assessed hospitalisation rate. Frailty prevalence was 3.38%, loneliness 4.75% and social isolation 9.04%. Frailty was present across all ages and increased with age. Loneliness and social isolation were more common in younger participants compared to older. Co-occurrence of frailty and loneliness or social isolation was most common in participants with high socioeconomic deprivation. Frailty was associated with increased mortality and hospitalisation regardless of social isolation/loneliness. Hazard ratios for mortality were 2.47 (2.27–2.69) with social isolation and 2.17 (2.05–2.29) without social isolation, 2.14 (1.92–2.38) with loneliness and 2.16 (2.05–2.27) without loneliness. Loneliness and social isolation were associated with mortality and hospitalisation in robust participants, but this was attenuated in the context of frailty. Frailty and loneliness/social isolation affect individuals across a wide age spectrum and disproportionately co-occur in areas of high deprivation. All were associated with adverse outcomes, but the association between loneliness and social isolation and adverse outcomes was attenuated in the context of frailty. Future interventions should target people living with frailty or loneliness/social isolation, regardless of age.
Haemodynamics of stent-mounted neural interfaces in tapered and deformed blood vessels
Authors: Qi Weijie , Ooi Andrew , Grayden David B. , Opie Nicholas L. , John Sam E.
Published: March 2024

The endovascular neural interface provides an appealing minimally invasive alternative to invasive brain electrodes for recording and stimulation. However, stents placed in blood vessels have long been known to affect blood flow (haemodynamics) and lead to neointimal growth within the blood vessel. Both the stent elements (struts and electrodes) and blood vessel wall geometries can affect the mechanical environment on the blood vessel wall, which could lead to unfavourable vascular remodelling after stent placement. With increasing applications of stents and stent-like neural interfaces in venous blood vessels in the brain, it is necessary to understand how stents affect blood flow and tissue growth in veins. We explored the haemodynamics of a stent-mounted neural interface in a blood vessel model. Results indicated that blood vessel deformation and tapering caused a substantial change to the lumen geometry and the haemodynamics. The neointimal proliferation was evaluated in sheep implanted with an endovascular neural interface. Analysis showed a negative correlation with the mean Wall Shear Stress pattern. The results presented here indicate that the optimal stent oversizing ratio must be considered to minimise the haemodynamic impact of stenting.
Photoswitchable optoelectronic properties of 2D MoSe2/diarylethene hybrid structures
Authors: Park Sewon , Ji Jaehoon , Cunningham Connor , Pillai Srajan , Rouillon Jean , Benitez-Martin Carlos , Fang Mengqi , Yang Eui-Hyeok , Andréasson Joakim , You Jeong Ho , Choi Jong Hyun
Published: March 2024

The ability to modulate optical and electrical properties of two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors has sparked considerable interest in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). Herein, we introduce a facile strategy for modulating optoelectronic properties of monolayer MoSe2 with external light. Photochromic diarylethene (DAE) molecules formed a 2-nm-thick uniform layer on MoSe2, switching between its closed- and open-form isomers under UV and visible irradiation, respectively. We have discovered that the closed DAE conformation under UV has its lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level lower than the conduction band minimum of MoSe2, which facilitates photoinduced charge separation at the hybrid interface and quenches photoluminescence (PL) from monolayer flakes. In contrast, open isomers under visible light prevent photoexcited electron transfer from MoSe2 to DAE, thus retaining PL emission properties. Alternating UV and visible light repeatedly show a dynamic modulation of optoelectronic signatures of MoSe2. Conductive atomic force microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy also reveal an increase in conductivity and work function of MoSe2/DAE with photoswitched closed-form DAE. These results may open new opportunities for designing new phototransistors and other 2D optoelectronic devices.
A super SDM (species distribution model) ‘in the cloud’ for better habitat-association inference with a ‘big data’ application of the Great Gray Owl for Alaska
Authors: Huettmann Falk , Andrews Phillip , Steiner Moriz , Das Arghya Kusum , Philip Jacques , Mi Chunrong , Bryans Nathaniel , Barker Bryan
Published: March 2024

The currently available distribution and range maps for the Great Grey Owl (GGOW; Strix nebulosa) are ambiguous, contradictory, imprecise, outdated, often hand-drawn and thus not quantified, not based on data or scientific. In this study, we present a proof of concept with a biological application for technical and biological workflow progress on latest global open access ‘Big Data’ sharing, Open-source methods of R and geographic information systems (OGIS and QGIS) assessed with six recent multi-evidence citizen-science sightings of the GGOW. This proposed workflow can be applied for quantified inference for any species-habitat model such as typically applied with species distribution models (SDMs). Using Random Forest—an ensemble-type model of Machine Learning following Leo Breiman’s approach of inference from predictions—we present a Super SDM for GGOWs in Alaska running on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). These Super SDMs were based on best publicly available data (410 occurrences + 1% new assessment sightings) and over 100 environmental GIS habitat predictors (‘Big Data’). The compiled global open access data and the associated workflow overcome for the first time the limitations of traditionally used PC and laptops. It breaks new ground and has real-world implications for conservation and land management for GGOW, for Alaska, and for other species worldwide as a ‘new’ baseline. As this research field remains dynamic, Super SDMs can have limits, are not the ultimate and final statement on species-habitat associations yet, but they summarize all publicly available data and information on a topic in a quantified and testable fashion allowing fine-tuning and improvements as needed. At minimum, they allow for low-cost rapid assessment and a great leap forward to be more ecological and inclusive of all information at-hand. Using GGOWs, here we aim to correct the perception of this species towards a more inclusive, holistic, and scientifically correct assessment of this urban-adapted owl in the Anthropocene, rather than a mysterious wilderness-inhabiting species (aka ‘Phantom of the North’). Such a Super SDM was never created for any bird species before and opens new perspectives for impact assessment policy and global sustainability.
White and gray matter integrity evaluated by MRI-DTI can serve as noninvasive and reliable indicators of structural and functional alterations in chronic neurotrauma
Authors: Wang Lan-Wan , Cho Kuan-Hung , Chao Pi-Yu , Kuo Li-Wei , Chiang Chia-Wen , Chao Chien-Ming , Lin Mao-Tsun , Chang Ching-Ping , Lin Hung-Jung , Chio Chung-Ching
Published: March 2024

We aimed to evaluate whether white and gray matter microstructure changes observed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) can be used to reflect the progression of chronic brain trauma. The MRI-DTI parameters, neuropathologic changes, and behavioral performance of adult male Wistar rats that underwent moderate (2.1 atm on day “0”) or repeated mild (1.5 atm on days “0” and “2”) traumatic brain injury (TBI or rmTBI) or sham operation were evaluated at 7 days, 14 days, and 1–9 months after surgery. Neurobehavioral tests showed that TBI causes long-term motor, cognitive and neurological deficits, whereas rmTBI results in more significant deficits in these paradigms. Both histology and MRI show that rmTBI causes more significant changes in brain lesion volumes than TBI. In vivo DTI further reveals that TBI and rmTBI cause persistent microstructural changes in white matter tracts (such as the body of the corpus callosum, splenium of corpus callus, internal capsule and/or angular bundle) of both two hemispheres. Luxol fast blue measurements reveal similar myelin loss (as well as reduction in white matter thickness) in ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres as observed by DTI analysis in injured rats. These data indicate that the disintegration of microstructural changes in white and gray matter parameters analyzed by MRI-DTI can serve as noninvasive and reliable markers of structural and functional level alterations in chronic TBI.
Exploring super-resolution spatial downscaling of several meteorological variables and potential applications for photovoltaic power
Authors: Damiani Alessandro , Ishizaki Noriko N. , Sasaki Hidetaka , Feron Sarah , Cordero Raul R.
Published: March 2024

We applied a perfect prognosis approach to downscale four meteorological variables that affect photovoltaic (PV) power output using four machine learning (ML) algorithms. In addition to commonly investigated variables, such as air temperature and precipitation, we also focused on wind speed and surface solar radiation, which are not frequently examined. The downscaling performance of the four variables followed the order of: temperature > surface solar radiation > wind speed > precipitation. Having assessed the dependence of the downscaling accuracy on the scaling factor, we focused on a super-resolution downscaling. We found that the convolutional neural network (CNN) generally outperformed the other linear and non-linear algorithms. The CNN was further able to reproduce extremes. With the rapid transition from coal to renewables, the need to evaluate low solar output conditions at a regional scale is expected to benefit from CNNs. Because weather affects PV power output in multiple ways, and future climate change will modify meteorological conditions, we focused on obtaining exemplary super-resolution application by evaluating future changes in PV power outputs using climate simulations. Our results confirmed the reliability of the CNN method for producing super-resolution climate scenarios and will enable energy planners to anticipate the effects of future weather variability.
In silico designed novel multi-epitope mRNA vaccines against Brucella by targeting extracellular protein BtuB and LptD
Authors: Shi Juan , Zhu Yuejie , Yin Zhengwei , He Yueyue , Li Yujiao , Haimiti Gulishati , Xie Xinru , Niu Ce , Guo Wenhong , Zhang Fengbo
Published: March 2024

Brucella, a gram-negative intracellular bacterium, causing Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease with a range of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic to fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, joint and muscle pain, and back pain, severe patients have developed serious diseases affecting various organs. The mRNA vaccine is an innovative type of vaccine that is anticipated to supplant traditional vaccines. It is widely utilized for preventing viral infections and for tumor immunotherapy. However, research regarding its effectiveness in preventing bacterial infections is limited. In this study, we analyzed the epitopes of two proteins of brucella, the TonB-dependent outer membrane receptor BtuB and the LPS assembly protein LptD, which is involved in nutrient transport and LPS synthesis in Brucella. In order to effectively stimulate cellular and humoral immunity, we utilize a range of immunoinformatics tools such as VaxiJen, AllergenFPv.1.0 and SignalP 5.0 to design proteins. Finally, five cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) cell epitopes, ten helper T lymphocyte (HTL) cell epitopes, and eight B cell epitopes were selected to construct the vaccine. Computer simulations are also used to verify the immune response of the vaccine. The codon optimization, in silico cloning showed that the vaccine can efficiently transcript and translate in E. coli. The secondary structure of mRNA vaccines and the secondary and tertiary structures of vaccine peptides were predicted and then docked with TLR-4. Finally, the stability of the developed vaccine was confirmed through molecular dynamics simulation. These analyses showed that the design the multi-epitope mRNA vaccine could potentially target extracellular protein of prevalent Brucella, which provided novel strategies for developing the vaccine.
Identification of the pan-allergen tropomyosin from the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius)
Authors: Gordon Johnalyn M. , DeVries Zachary C.
Published: March 2024

Tropomyosin is a muscle contraction protein documented across all animal life. Despite its ubiquity, its unique structure in invertebrates leads to allergic responses in humans that vertebrate tropomyosin does not. High degrees of homology can explain cross-reactivity between tropomyosin derived from distantly-related arthropod species and establishes tropomyosin as a panallergen. Given this cross-reactivity and that they are commonly found in high numbers indoors, research on the potential of the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius L.) to contribute tropomyosin to the indoor environment is needed. Therefore, we investigated tropomyosin homology between bed bugs and known tropomyosin allergens from other taxa, tropomyosin in bed bug bodies, feces, and exuviae (cast skins), tropomyosin persistence over time, and impacts of common bed bug treatment strategies on detectable tropomyosin. Tropomyosin was detected in mechanically fractured bed bug cadavers and was detectable in bed bugs cadavers aged for 18 months. Additionally, a survey of pest management professionals showed dead bed bugs are not cleaned up following treatment. As such, dead bed bugs could act as tropomyosin reservoirs following bed bug treatment and exposure to tropomyosin from bed bugs could sensitize individuals and lead to increased responses to other arthropod tropomyosin.
The effect of cystic echinococcosis (hydatid disease) on carcase weight in cattle in eastern Australia
Authors: Brookes Victoria J. , Barnes Tamsin S. , Jenkins David J. , Van der Saag Matthew R. , Dempster Robert , Wilson Cara S.
Published: March 2024

Cystic echinococcosis is caused by the zoonotic tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. There has been ongoing controversy over whether it causes weight loss in cattle. Recently implemented recording of comorbidities at processors has provided opportunity to investigate this effect. Using prevalence-based observational data from 1,648,049 adult cattle processed in seven states and territories in Australia (2019–2022), we explored associations between carcase weight, hydatid cysts, comorbidities, sex, age, and region. Linear mixed-effect regression models estimated the effect of cystic echinococcosis on carcase weight, guided by directed acyclic graphs to reduce bias. The highest, previously unreported, prevalence was in the southeast Queensland region. The estimated effect of cystic echinococcosis cysts on carcase weight ranged from a gain of 0.32 kg/carcase (standard error [se] 0.58 kg; two-tooth 2022) to a loss of −5.45 kg/carcase (se 0.63 kg; six-tooth 2019) with most point estimates (11/16) between 0 and −2.5 kg across all cattle grouped by year and dentition. This effect size would be practically undetectable in live cattle which is an important finding; cattle producers are unlikely to observe increased productivity through weight gain from cystic echinococcosis prevention in cattle, and awareness to strengthen prevention in domestic dogs around cattle properties to reduce human risk remains a public health focus.
Factors impacting antibody kinetics, including fever and vaccination intervals, in SARS-CoV-2-naïve adults receiving the first four mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses
Authors: Matsuura Tomoka , Fukushima Wakaba , Nakagama Yu , Kido Yasutoshi , Kase Tetsuo , Kondo Kyoko , Kaku Natsuko , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Suita Asae , Mukai Emiko , Nitahara Yuko , Konishi Ayako , Kasamatsu Ayane , Nakagama Sachie , Nakagami-Yamaguchi Etsuko , Ohfuji Satoko , Kaneko Yukihiro , Kaneko Akira , Kakeya Hiroshi , Hirota Yoshio
Published: March 2024

To evaluate the antibody response following the initial four doses of mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) in SARS-CoV-2-naïve healthy adults and investigate factors influencing antibody titer increases, this prospective cohort study was conducted in Japan from March 2021. The study included participants who received either the 1st and 2nd doses (n = 467), 3rd dose (n = 157), or 4th dose (n = 89). Blood samples were collected before and up to 6 months after each dose, and anti-receptor-binding domain antibody levels were measured. Multivariate analysis (usin multiple linear regression or linear mixed models) revealed several factors significantly associated with higher post-vaccination antibody levels, including mRNA-1273 vaccine (after the 1st and 2nd dose), male gender (after the 3rd and 4th doses), younger age (after the 1st and 2nd dose), non-smoking status (after the 2nd dose), non-use of immunosuppressive agents (after the 1st dose), higher pre-vaccination antibody titers (after the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th doses), and higher post-vaccination fever (after the 2nd and 4th doses). Furthermore, longer intervals since the last dose were significantly associated with higher antibody levels after the 3rd and 4th doses. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing vaccination strategies.
Detection of biomagnetic signals from induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes using deep learning with simulation data
Authors: Yamaguchi Takeshi , Adachi Yoshiaki , Tanida Takashi , Taguchi Katsutoshi , Oka Yoshinobu , Yoshida Takashi , Kim Wook-Cheol , Takahashi Kenji , Tanaka Masaki
Published: March 2024

The detection of spontaneous magnetic signals can be used for the non-invasive electrophysiological evaluation of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPS-CMs). We report that deep learning with a dataset that combines magnetic signals estimated using numerical simulation and actual noise data is effective in the detection of weak biomagnetic signals. To verify the feasibility of this method, we measured artificially generated magnetic signals that mimic cellular magnetic fields using a superconducting quantum interference device and attempted peak detection using a long short-term memory network. We correctly detected 80.0% of the peaks and the method achieved superior detection performance compared with conventional methods. Next, we attempted peak detection for magnetic signals measured from mouse iPS-CMs. The number of detected peaks was consistent with the spontaneous beats counted using microscopic observation and the average peak waveform achieved good similarity with the prediction. We also observed the synchronization of peak positions between simultaneously measured field potentials and magnetic signals. Furthermore, the magnetic measurements of cell samples treated with isoproterenol showed potential for the detection of chronotropic effects. These results suggest that the proposed method is effective and has potential application in the safety assessment of regenerative medicine and drug screening.
Chemoprofiling and medicinal potential of underutilized leaves of Cyperus scariosus
Authors: Gandhi Yashika , Kumar Vijay , Singh Gagandeep , Prasad Shyam Baboo , Mishra Sujeet K. , Soni Hemant , Rawat Hemant , Singh Simranjeet , Charde Vaibhav , Gupta Akhil , Dhanjal Daljeet Singh , Jha Sudhanshu Kumar , Tandon Smriti , Bhagwat Prateeksha , Arya Jagdish C. , Ramamurthy Praveen C. , Acharya Rabinarayan , Narasimhaji Ch. Venkata , Singh Arjun , Singh Ravindra , Srikanth Narayanam , Webster Thomas J.
Published: March 2024

Agro-waste is the outcome of the under-utilization of bioresources and a lack of knowledge to re-use this waste in proper ways or a circular economy approach. In the Indian medicinal system, the root of Cyperus scariosus (CS) is used at a large scale due to their vital medicinal properties. Unfortunately, the aerial part of CS is treated as agro-waste and is an under-utilized bioresource. Due to a lack of knowledge, CS is treated as a weed. This present study is the first ever attempt to explore CS leaves as medicinally and a nutrient rich source. To determine the food and nutritional values of the neglected part of Cyperus scariosus R.Br. (CS), i.e. CS leaves, phytochemicals and metal ions of CS were quantified by newly developed HPLC and ICPOES-based methods. The content of the phytochemicals observed in HPLC analysis for caffeic acid, catechin, epicatechin, trans-p-coumaric acid, and trans-ferulic acid was 10.51, 276.15, 279.09, 70.53, and 36.83 µg/g, respectively. In GC–MS/MS analysis, fatty acids including linolenic acid, phytol, palmitic acid, etc. were identified. In ICPOES analysis, the significant content of Na, K, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Zn was observed. The TPC and TFC of the CS leaves was 17.933 mg GAE eq./g and 130.767 mg QCE eq./g along with an IC50 value of 2.78 mg/mL in the DPPH assay and better antacid activity was measured than the standard (CaCO3). The methanolic extract of CS leaves showed anti-microbial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (15 ± 2 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12 ± 2 mm) and Escherichia coli (10 ± 2 mm). In silico studies confirmed the in vitro results obtained from the antioxidant, antiacid, and anti-microbial studies. In addition, in silico studies revealed the anti-cancerous and anti-inflammatory potential of the CS leaves. This study, thus, demonstrated the medicinal significance of the under-utilized part of CS and the conversion of agro-waste into mankind activity as a pharmaceutical potent material. Consequently, the present study highlighted that CS leaves have medicinal importance with good nutritional utility and have a large potential in the pharmaceutical industry along with improving bio-valorization and the environment.
Non-invasive geophysical methods for monitoring the shallow aquifer based on time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography, magnetic resonance sounding, and spontaneous potential methods
Authors: Li Kaitian , Yan Jianbo , Li Fan , Lu Kai , Yu Yongpeng , Li Yulin , Zhang Lin , Wang Peng , Li Zhenyu , Yang Yancheng , Wang Jiawen
Published: March 2024

The Ningdong coalfield has played a pivotal role in advancing local economic development and meeting national energy. Nevertheless, mining operations have engendered ecological challenges encompassing subterranean water depletion, land desertification, and ground subsidence, primarily stemming from the disruption of coal seam roof strata. Consequently, the local ecosystem has incurred substantial harm. Water-preserved coal mining presently constitutes the pivotal technology in mitigating this problem. The primary challenge of this technique lies in identifying critical aquifer layers and understanding the heights of water-conducting fracture zones. To obtain a precise comprehension of the seepage patterns within the upper coal seam aquifer during mining, delineate the extent of water-conducting fracture zones, non-invasive geophysical techniques such as time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography (TL-ERT), magnetic resonance sounding (MRS), and spontaneous potential (SP) have been employed to monitor alterations within the shallow coalfield’s aquifer throughout the mining process in the Ningdong coalfield. By conducting meticulous examinations of fluctuations in resistivity, moisture content, and self-potential within the superjacent strata during coal seam extraction, the predominant underground water infiltration strata were ascertained, concurrently enabling the estimation of the development elevation of water-conducting fracture zones. This outcome furnishes a geophysical underpinning for endeavors concerning local water-preserved coal mining and ecological rehabilitation.
Roadway rock burst prediction based on catastrophe theory
Authors: Pan Wang , Shuan-Cheng Gu , Wei Sun
Published: March 2024

In order to quantitatively calculate the critical depth and critical load of mines affected by rock burst, and to achieve effective prevention and control of rock burst in coal mines, this paper proposes a mechanical model for predicting the occurrence of rock burst in coal mine roadways based on catastrophe theory. Additionally, a theoretical calculation formula for initiating rock burst is derived. The first step was to establish a mechanical analysis model, which directly correlated with the in-situ stress, physical and mechanical characteristics of the coal-rock mass, and engineering structural parameters. Following this, a mechanical instability criterion was derived for the key load-bearing circle within the surrounding rock of the roadway. In the final step, the critical depth and load for rock burst initiation were verified for 25 distinct coal mines in China that were prone to rock burst hazards. The research results demonstrate that the discrepancy between the theoretically calculated critical depth and the actual measured statistical values was less than 35%. In addition, the difference between the theoretically determined critical depth and the value calculated by Pan Yishan was less than 32%. Notably, the ratio of the theoretically calculated critical load to the uniaxial compressive strength of the coal-rock mass ranged from 0.38 to 1.93. This aligns with empirical data on rock burst occurrences, as set out in the engineering classification standards for rock masses. These research outcomes substantiated the practical utility of the proposed theory, thereby laying a robust theoretical groundwork for the quantitative control of rock burst.
Non-invasive perfusion MR imaging of the human brain via breath-holding
Authors: Schulman J. B. , Kashyap S. , Kim S. G. , Uludağ K.
Published: March 2024

Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MRI plays a pivotal role in the accurate diagnosis and prognosis of several neurovascular diseases, but is limited by its reliance on gadolinium, an intravascularly injected chelated metal. Here, we determined the feasibility of measuring perfusion using a DSC analysis of breath-hold-induced gradient-echo-MRI signal changes. We acquired data at both 3 T and 7 T from ten healthy participants who engaged in eight consecutive breath-holds. By pairing a novel arterial input function strategy with a standard DSC MRI analysis, we measured the cerebral blood volume, flow, and transit delay, and found values to agree with those documented in the literature using gadolinium. We also observed voxel-wise agreement between breath-hold and arterial spin labeling measures of cerebral blood flow. Breath-holding resulted in significantly higher contrast-to-noise (6.2 at 3 T vs. 8.5 at 7 T) and gray matter-to-white matter contrast at higher field strength. Finally, using a simulation framework to assess the effect of dynamic vasodilation on perfusion estimation, we found global perfusion underestimation of 20–40%. For the first time, we have assessed the feasibility of and limitations associated with using breath-holds for perfusion estimation with DSC. We hope that the methods and results presented in this study will help pave the way toward contrast-free perfusion imaging, in both basic and clinical research.
The seasonal characteristics of English Channel storminess have changed since the 19th Century
Authors: Cornes Richard C. , Jones Philip D.
Published: March 2024

Information from a variety of sources has suggested that increased storminess was experienced across the British Isles in the late eighteenth/early nineteenth century. However, it is not clear how stormy that period was relative to current conditions. Using newly recovered barometric pressure data that extend back to 1748 we have constructed a measure of geostrophic wind speed for the English Channel region using a pressure-triangle approach. We show that the 1790−1820s was a period of increased storminess across the region. This storminess extended throughout the year, which is different to comparable increases observed since the 1990s, which were confined to the winter season. While a strengthened North Atlantic jet stream is implicated in both periods, in the earlier period it is likely that the storm track shifted slightly to a more southerly location. We discuss the potential forcing mechanisms responsible for the changes in storminess over this multi-century timeframe.
An overview of electrochemical biosensors used for COVID-19 detection
Authors: Valerio Tatiana Lima , Anastácio Raquel , da Silva Stella Schuster , de Oliveira Carolina Camargo , Vidotti Marcio
Published: March 2024

This short review presents the latest advances in the field of electrochemical biosensors, focusing particularly on impedimetric biosensors for the direct measurement of analytes.
Computational predictions of interfacial tension, surface tension, and surfactant adsorption isotherms
Authors: Li Jing , Amador Carlos , Wilson Mark R.
Published: March 2024

All-atom molecular dynamics simulations are employed to predict interfacial tensions and surface tensions of both ionic and non-ionic surfactants.
The automated discovery of kinetic rate models – methodological frameworks
Authors: de Carvalho Servia Miguel Ángel , Sandoval Ilya Orson , Hii King Kuok (Mimi) , Hellgardt Klaus , Zhang Dongda , Antonio del Rio Chanona Ehecatl
Published: March 2024

Two automated knowledge discovery methodologies (ADoK-S & ADoK-W) are created whereby symbolic regression, parameter estimation, information criteria and model-based design of experiments synergize for the optimized discovery of kinetic rate models.
A corrosion-free zinc metal battery with an ultra-thin zinc anode and high depth of discharge
Authors: Yao Rui , Zhao Yunxiang , Wang Lumeng , Xiao Chengxiang , Kang Feiyu , Zhi Chunyi , Yang Cheng
Published: March 2024

Benefiting from the weakly coordinated solvation structures and the exclusion of H+, a corrosion-free zinc metal battery with an ultra-thin zinc anode and high depth of discharge was achieved.
Performance analysis and structure characterization of polylactic acid modified with three flame retardants
Authors: Yuqin Zhu , Di Wang , Zhongliang Guo , Huiying Wen
Published: March 2024

Three flame retardant composites were prepared by incorporating flame retardants (FRs), including triphenyl phosphate (TPP), polysiloxane (PSQ) and phosphite functionalized polysiloxane (PPSQ), respectively into a polylactic acid (s/PLLA) matrix.
Extending the lifetime of vanadium redox flow batteries by reactivation of carbon electrode materials
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Adeel , Daskalakis Stylianos , Kogler Matthias , Ostermann Markus , Gahlawat Soniya , Son Seohee , Mardilovich Pavel , Valtiner Markus , Pichler Christian M.
Published: March 2024

The degradation and aging of carbon felt electrodes is a main reason for the performance loss of Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries over extended operation time.
Advances of cassava starch-based composites in novel and conventional drug delivery systems: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Das Sanjoy , Das Malay K. , Jamatia Taison , Bhattacharya Bireswar , Mazumder Rishav , Yadav Pradip Kumar , Ghose Bishwas Nayan Ranjan , Deka Trinayan , Roy Dhritiman , Sinha Bibek , Das Biplajit , Daule Ichu , Paul Kishan , Roy Ankita , Choudhury Ankita , Sadhukhan Pinkan , Sarmah Dibyojyoti , Bhargab Dhritiman , Jana Bani Kumar , Tayeng Dubom , Guha Nilayan , Kalita Bhrigumani , Mandal Subhajit
Published: March 2024

Native cassava starch and its derivatives have found great use in the pharmaceutical sector for the development of various novel and conventional drug delivery carriers.
CoAl-LDH decorated with cerium oxide as an efficient adsorbent for restoring low-concentration phosphate in wastewater
Authors: Tang Fengqin , Bai Hui , Chen Yahui , Shi Chunhui , Wang Dong , Zhang Yaju , Liu Wenyuan , Yang Ling , Hu Libing
Published: March 2024

The requirement for the removal of phosphorus (P) from wastewater has become progressively stringent, therefore, it is essential to remove low-concentration phosphate from secondary effluents through a tertiary treatment.
Conductive nanocomposite hydrogels for flexible wearable sensors
Authors: Guo Wen-Yan , Ma Ming-Guo
Published: March 2024

We present a comprehensive review of the recent research advances in the field of sensors based on hydrogels with nanofillers. The characteristics and design strategies of nanofillers are highlighted and multiple properties of conductive nanocomposite hydrogels are described.
Conformational fingerprinting with Raman spectroscopy reveals protein structure as a translational biomarker of muscle pathology
Authors: Alix James J. P. , Plesia Maria , Dudgeon Alexander P. , Kendall Catherine A. , Hewamadduma Channa , Hadjivassiliou Marios , Gorman Gráinne S. , Taylor Robert W. , McDermott Christopher J. , Shaw Pamela J. , Mead Richard J. , Day John C.
Published: March 2024

Using a combination of peak fitting and matrix factorisation techniques we show that neuromuscular disease in both human biopsies and preclinical models manifests alterations in protein secondary structure. Created with biorender.com.
Wireless rotating bipolar electrochemiluminescence for enzymatic detection
Authors: Li Chunguang , Feng Minghui , Stanković Dalibor , Bouffier Laurent , Zhang Feifei , Wang Zonghua , Sojic Neso
Published: March 2024

A double contactless remotely-controlled rotating ECL system was present for glucose detection on both polarized sides of an iron wire acting as a bipolar electrode. Quantitative glucose detection in human serum samples is achieved.
A novel ratiometric sensor for fluorimetric and visual dual-mode detection of Al3+ in environmental water based on the target-regulated formation of Eu MOFs
Authors: Chen Tao-Li , Kong Xiang-Juan , Dong Xin-Xin , Mao Zhi-Jie , Kong Fang-Fang , Xiao Qiang
Published: March 2024

The illustration of the ratiometric sensor for fluorimetric (A) and visual detection (B) of Al3+.
Janus MXene nanosheets with a strain-induced reversible magnetic state transition for storing information without electricity
Authors: Zhang Hengyue , Wang Guoqing , Beshiwork Bayu Admasu , Teketel Birkneh Sirak , Li Baihai , Lin Bin
Published: March 2024

Based on the reversible magnetic state transition of Janus TiVC MXene, a new method of solid-state disk information storage without electricity have been developed, which can achieve efficient storage of information in extremely harsh conditions.
Radical hydroboration for the synthesis of organoboron compounds
Authors: Phang Yee Lin , Jin Ji-Kang , Zhang Feng-Lian , Wang Yi-Feng
Published: March 2024

This review describes the recent research on radical hydroboration, which covers different boron sources including N-heterocyclic carbene borane, bis(pinacolato)diboron and pinacolborane, as well as different strategies in boryl radical generation.
Study on Raman scattering spectroscopy of Mn-doped GaN grown by the ammonothermal method
Authors: Lu Wenhao , Li Tengkun , Ren Guoqiang , Xia Zhenghui , Xie Kaihe , Li Shaozhe , Shen Liangkun , Xu Ke
Published: March 2024

Mn-doped GaN crystals of a-plane and (11−22) plane were grown by the ammonothermal method.
Solute dynamics of a hydrophobic molecule in a menthol–thymol based type-V deep eutectic solvent: effect of composition of the components
Authors: Srivastava Sagar , Sinha Sapana , Bhattacharjee Sanyukta , Seth Debabrata
Published: March 2024

The solute dynamics in Type-V DESs was reported. The fluorescence lifetime of C153 in type-V DESs follow the order as M2T1 > M1T1 > M1T1.5. The rotational dynamics in type-V DESs demonstrate a good correlation with the SED model with a little deviation.
Intramolecular charge transfer enhanced optical limiting in novel hydrazone derivatives with a D1–D–Ai–π–A structure
Authors: Zhu Hongjuan , Zhang Danyang , Sun Xianghao , Qian Shifeng , Feng Eryin , Sheng Xiaowei
Published: March 2024

The GSA, ESA and MPA spectral characteristics of the hydrazone derivatives are calculated and analyzed based on the density functional theory, on the basis of which its optical limiting characteristics are discussed.
Laser power and high-temperature dependent Raman studies of layered bismuth and copper-based oxytellurides for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Kumar Prabhukrupa C. , Senapati Subrata , Pradhan Monalisa , Pradhan Gopal K. , Naik Ramakanta
Published: March 2024

Bi and Cu-based layered oxytelluride nanosheets are prepared via a facile microwave-mediated method. High temperature and laser power-dependent Raman studies of these nanosheets show the variation in different Raman bands.
MLstructureMining: a machine learning tool for structure identification from X-ray pair distribution functions
Authors: Kjær Emil T. S. , Anker Andy S. , Kirsch Andrea , Lajer Joakim , Aalling-Frederiksen Olivia , Billinge Simon J. L. , Jensen Kirsten M. Ø.
Published: March 2024

We present MLstructureMining, a machine learning tool that identifies a structural model from an experimental pair distribution function. We show how the method can be used for structure analysis of both crystalline and nanocrystalline materials.
Nearly all-active-material cathodes free of nickel and cobalt for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Lee Eunryeol , Lee Dae-Hyung , Bessette Stéphanie , Park Sang-Wook , Brodusch Nicolas , Lazaris Gregory , Kim Hojoon , Malik Rahul , Gauvin Raynald , Seo Dong-Hwa , Lee Jinhyuk
Published: March 2024

Mitigating electro-chemo-mechanical failures enables nearly all-active-material Ni- and Co-free disordered rock-salt cathodes for Li-ion batteries.
Mycogenic silver nanoparticles from Penicillium citrinum IB-CLP11 – their antimicrobial activity and potential toxicity effects on freshwater organisms
Authors: Aguiar Arthur Pérez , Ottoni Cristiane Angélica , Aquaroli Claudia de Lima Ramos , Mendes Evelyn Caroline Vicente , Araújo Ana Lúzia de Souza , Simões Marta Filipa , Barbieri Edison
Published: March 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are some of the most attractive nanomaterials for commercial applications, but they can also be a very challenging issue from the point of view of cytotoxicity and phytotoxicity as agents that damage genetic information.
The antioxidant peptides from walnut protein hydrolysates and their protective activity against alcoholic injury
Authors: Chen Peihang , Huang Pantian , Liang Yingyan , Wang Qiaoe , Miao Jianyin
Published: March 2024

Three novel antioxidant peptides were isolated from walnut protein hydrolysate, which showed excellent antioxidant activity and alcohol damage protection activity.
Brachytherapy on-a-chip: a clinically-relevant approach for radiotherapy testing in 3d biology
Authors: Chermat Rodin , Refet-Mollof Elena , Kamio Yuji , Carrier Jean-François , Wong Philip , Gervais Thomas
Published: March 2024

We introduce the first brachytherapy-on-chip device for in vitro testing of brachytherapy on naturally hypoxic tumor spheroids, for translational research and drug development.
A mechanochemical process to capture and separate carbon dioxide from natural gas using boron nitride nanosheets
Authors: Mateti Srikanth , Chen Ying (Ian) , Sathikumar Gautham , Han Qi , Prasad Shiva , Ferdowsi Reza Ghandehari , Battacharjee Amrito
Published: March 2024

A mechanochemical process to store and separate CO2 gas using boron nitride nanosheets.
Self-standing bacterial cellulose-reinforced poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(4-styrenesulfonate) doped with graphene oxide composite electrodes for high-performance ionic electroactive soft actuators
Authors: Wu Yujiao , Cui Qiyuan , Qi Ruibin , Wang Fan
Published: March 2024

Herein, we propose an advanced high-performance ionic electroactive actuator utilizing self-standing bacterial cellulose reinforced PEDOT/PSS doped with graphene oxide electrodes and a Nafion ion-exchange membrane via a hot-pressing method.
Design of Fe and N co-decorated biomass-derived hierarchical porous carbon frameworks with boosted oxidase-like activity for hydroquinone detection
Authors: Zhang Han , Qi Xiaodan , Wang Zhifei , Jin Lihua , Shen Yehua
Published: March 2024

An Fe and N co-decorated biomass-derived porous carbon framework with boosted oxidase-like activity was prepared and applied to sensitive hydroquinone detection.
Large-scale synthesis of LiMn2O4 cathode materials via a rheology-assisted solid-phase method using citric acid
Authors: Liang Pengchao , Li Yuanchao , Xiao Xiangzhen , Fan Shumin , Ma Jingjing , Liu Jingjie , Dong Yongqiang , Zong Yuhang , Xu Guangri , Yang Li
Published: March 2024

The LiMn2O4 prepared by citrate modification showed better morphology and showed excellent multiplier performance.
A novel energetic pyridine-2-carbohydrazide copper perchlorate complex: synthesis, cationic ligand structure and properties
Authors: Kuang Bao-long , Lu Zu-jia , Zhao Bin-shan , Wang Ting-wei , Sun Mou , Zhang Chao , Xu Mei-qi , Yu Qi-yao , Zhang Jian-guo
Published: March 2024

The pyridine-2-carbohydrazide copper perchlorate complex was synthesized, and it possessed high thermal stabilitiy and moderate sensitivity which was sensitive to laser and could detonate RDX.
Scalable solid-state synthesis of 2D transition metal oxide/graphene hybrid materials and their utilization for microsupercapacitors
Authors: Yang Muxuan , Kasbe Pratik , Bu Jinyu , Xu Weinan
Published: March 2024

A microwave-assisted solid-state synthesis approach for 2D metal oxides and their graphene nanocomposites was developed, and it also shows high potential in energy-storage applications.
Rhodium-catalysed additive-free alkoxycarbonylation of indoles: 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoic acid-based carbonate anhydrides as a versatile alkoxycarboxyl source
Authors: Suzuki Hirotsugu , Ito Yuki , Yabe Kentaro , Takemura Yosuke , Matsuda Takanori
Published: March 2024

We developed a rhodium-catalysed alkoxycarbonylation of indoles, characterised by employing stable and easily available 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoic acid-based carbonate anhydrides.
Triethyl amine as an effective reducing agent for sulfoxide deoxygenation
Authors: Gao Xiaojing , Chen Fumin , Jin Ming Yu , Xu Chen
Published: March 2024

We report an efficient sulfoxide deoxygenation protocol that utilizes Et3N as an electron-donating reductant in combination with the activating agent SOCl2.
One-pot in situ synthesis of an NS-ligand co-doped metal–organic framework for the enhanced adsorption-assisted photocatalytic decontamination of metronidazole
Authors: Hayat Anwer , Alamgir  , Huang Liangai , Wang Zongpeng , Ullah Raza , He Sailing
Published: March 2024

In this study, an in situ synthesis approach is employed for the co-doping of an NS ligand into PCN-600. The resulting PCN-600-NS is explored for the photocatalytic degradation of the antibiotic metronidazole (MTZ).