bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rural communities experience higher radon exposure versus urban areas, potentially due to drilled groundwater well annuli acting as unintended radon gas migration conduits
Authors: Khan Selim M. , Pearson Dustin D. , Eldridge Evangeline L. , Morais Tiago A. , Ahanonu Marvit I. C. , Ryan M. Cathryn , Taron Joshua M. , Goodarzi Aaron A.
Published: February 2024

Repetitive, long-term inhalation of radioactive radon gas is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, with exposure differences being a function of geographic location, built environment, personal demographics, activity patterns, and decision-making. Here, we examine radon exposure disparities across the urban-to-rural landscape, based on 42,051 Canadian residential properties in 2034 distinct communities. People living in rural, lower population density communities experience as much as 31.2% greater average residential radon levels relative to urban equivalents, equating to an additional 26.7 Bq/m3 excess in geometric mean indoor air radon, and an additional 1 mSv/year in excess alpha radiation exposure dose rate to the lungs for occupants. Pairwise and multivariate analyses indicate that community-based radon exposure disparities are, in part, explained by increased prevalence of larger floorplan bungalows in rural areas, but that a majority of the effect is attributed to proximity to, but not water use from, drilled groundwater wells. We propose that unintended radon gas migration in the annulus of drilled groundwater wells provides radon migration pathways from the deeper subsurface into near-surface materials. Our findings highlight a previously under-appreciated determinant of radon-induced lung cancer risk, and support a need for targeted radon testing and reduction in rural communities.
The role of dorsal premotor cortex in joint action inhibition
Authors: Dolfini Elisa , Cardellicchio Pasquale , Fadiga Luciano , D’Ausilio Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Behavioral interpersonal coordination requires smooth negotiation of actions in time and space (joint action—JA). Inhibitory control may play a role in fine-tuning appropriate coordinative responses. To date, little research has been conducted on motor inhibition during JA and on the modulatory influence that premotor areas might exert on inhibitory control. Here, we used an interactive task in which subjects were required to reach and open a bottle using one hand. The bottle was held and stabilized by a co-actor (JA) or by a mechanical holder (vice clamp, no-JA). We recorded two TMS-based indices of inhibition (short-interval intracortical inhibition—sICI; cortical silent period—cSP) during the reaching phase of the task. These reflect fast intracortical (GABAa-mediated) and slow corticospinal (GABAb-mediated) inhibition. Offline continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) was used to interfere with dorsal premotor cortex (PMd), ventral premotor cortex (PMv), and control site (vertex) before the execution of the task. Our results confirm a dissociation between fast and slow inhibition during JA coordination and provide evidence that premotor areas drive only slow inhibitory mechanisms, which in turn may reflect behavioral co-adaptation between trials. Exploratory analyses further suggest that PMd, more than PMv, is the key source of modulatory drive sculpting movements, according to the socio-interactive context.
Estimation of compressive strength of waste concrete utilizing fly ash/slag in concrete with interpretable approaches: optimization and graphical user interface (GUI)
Authors: Dodo Yakubu , Arif Kiran , Alyami Mana , Ali Mujahid , Najeh Taoufik , Gamil Yaser
Published: February 2024

Geo-polymer concrete has a significant influence on the environmental condition and thus its use in the civil industry leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. However, problems lie with its mixed design and casting in the field. This study utilizes supervised artificial-based machine learning algorithms (MLAs) to anticipate the mechanical characteristic of fly ash/slag-based geopolymer concrete (FASBGPC) by utilizing AdaBoost and Bagging on MLPNN to make an ensemble model with 156 data points. The data consist of GGBS (kg/m3), Alkaline activator (kg/m3), Fly ash (kg/m3), SP dosage (kg/m3), NaOH Molarity, Aggregate (kg/m3), Temperature (°C) and compressive strength as output parameter. Python programming is utilized in Anaconda Navigator using Spyder version 5.0 to predict the mechanical response. Statistical measures and validation of data are done by splitting the dataset into 80/20 percent and K-Fold CV is employed to check the accurateness of the model by using MAE, RMSE, and R2. Statistical analysis relies on errors, and tests against external indicators help determine how well models function in terms of robustness. The most important factor in compressive strength measurements is examined using permutation characteristics. The result reveals that ANN with AdaBoost is outclassed by giving maximum enhancement with R2 = 0.914 and shows the least error with statistical and external validations. Shapley analysis shows that GGBS, NaOH Molarity, and temperature are the most influential parameter that has significant content in making FASBGPC. Thus, ensemble methods are suitable for constructing prediction models because of their strong and reliable performance. Furthermore, the graphical user interface (GUI) is generated through the process of training a model that forecasts the desired outcome values when the corresponding inputs are provided. It streamlines the process and provides a useful tool for applying the model's abilities in the field of civil engineering.
Effect of rock properties on wear and cutting performance of multi blade circular saw with iron based multi-layer diamond segments
Authors: Rajpurohit Sohan Singh , Fissha Yewuhalashet , Sinha Rabindra Kumar , Ali Mujahid , Ikeda Hajime , Ghribi Wade , Najeh Taoufik , Gamil Yaser , Kawamura Youhei
Published: February 2024

This study is an attempt for comprehensive, combining experimental data with advanced analytical techniques and machine learning for a thorough understanding of the factors influencing the wear and cutting performance of multi-blade diamond disc cutters on granite blocks. A series of sawing experiments were performed to evaluate the wear and cutting performance of multi blade diamond disc cutters with varying diameters in the processing of large-sized granite blocks. The multi-layer diamond segments comprising the Iron (Fe) based metal matrix were brazed on the sawing blades. The segment’s wear was studied through micrographs and data obtained from the Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDS). Granite rock samples of nine varieties were tested in the laboratory to determine the quantitative rock parameters. The contribution of individual rock parameters and their combined effects on wear and cutting performance of multi blade saw were correlated using statistical machine learning methods. Moreover, predictive models were developed to estimate the wear and cutting rate based on the most significant rock properties. The point load strength index, uniaxial compressive strength, and deformability, Cerchar abrasivity index, and Cerchar hardness index were found to be the significant variables affecting the sawing performance.
Measurement of synaptic density in Down syndrome using PET imaging: a pilot study
Authors: DiFilippo Alexandra , Jonaitis Erin , Makuch Renee , Gambetti Brianna , Fleming Victoria , Ennis Gilda , Barnhart Todd , Engle Jonathan , Bendlin Barbara , Johnson Sterling , Handen Benjamin , Krinsky-McHale Sharon , Hartley Sigan , Christian Bradley
Published: February 2024

Down syndrome (DS) is the most prevalent genetic cause of intellectual disability, resulting from trisomy 21. Recently, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging has been used to image synapses in vivo. The motivation for this pilot study was to investigate whether synaptic density in low functioning adults with DS can be evaluated using the PET radiotracer [11C]UCB-J. Data were acquired from low functioning adults with DS (n = 4) and older neurotypical (NT) adults (n = 37). Motion during the scans required the use of a 10-minute acquisition window for the calculation of synaptic density using SUVR50–60,CS which was determined to be a suitable approximation for specific binding in this analysis using dynamic data from the NT group. Of the regions analyzed a large effect was observed when comparing DS and NT hippocampus and cerebral cortex synaptic density as well as hippocampus and cerebellum volumes. In this pilot study, PET imaging of [11C]UCB-J was successfully completed and synaptic density measured in low functioning DS adults. This work provides the basis for studies where synaptic density may be compared between larger groups of NT adults and adults with DS who have varying degrees of baseline cognitive status.
Evaluation of physical parameters and spectral characterization of the quality of soaps containing by-products from the food industry
Authors: Łusiak Patrycja , Różyło Renata , Mazur Jacek , Sobczak Paweł , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz
Published: February 2024

The present study investigated several properties such as friction, hardness, penetration work, and cutting forces in soaps formulated with apple and carrot pomace at varying concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%. To gain insights into the molecular-level alterations within the formulated soap samples, they were spectroscopically analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The sliding friction analyses revealed that the investigated extrudate additives had no significant impact on the frictional forces of the soaps. However, notable differences were observed in the cutting force, hardness, and penetration work between the control and pomace-added samples. Excluding the control samples, no statistically significant distinctions were found between the cutting force, hardness, and work of penetration of soaps containing apple pomace and carrot pomace. Moreover, the quantity of pomace incorporated did not induce any significant variations in the results. The obtained samples were characterised at the molecular level using FTIR Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. On the other hand, alterations in band intensities suggested improved molecular packing of the compounds within the samples due to the presence of the additives.
Evaluation of retrieval accuracy and visual similarity in content-based image retrieval of chest CT for obstructive lung disease
Authors: Choe Jooae , Choi Hye Young , Lee Sang Min , Oh Sang Young , Hwang Hye Jeon , Kim Namkug , Yun Jihye , Lee Jae Seung , Oh Yeon-Mok , Yu Donghoon , Kim Byeongsoo , Seo Joon Beom
Published: February 2024

The aim of our study was to assess the performance of content-based image retrieval (CBIR) for similar chest computed tomography (CT) in obstructive lung disease. This retrospective study included patients with obstructive lung disease who underwent volumetric chest CT scans. The CBIR database included 600 chest CT scans from 541 patients. To assess the system performance, follow-up chest CT scans of 50 patients were evaluated as query cases, which showed the stability of the CT findings between baseline and follow-up chest CT, as confirmed by thoracic radiologists. The CBIR system retrieved the top five similar CT scans for each query case from the database by quantifying and comparing emphysema extent and size, airway wall thickness, and peripheral pulmonary vasculatures in descending order from the database. The rates of retrieval of the same pairs of query CT scans in the top 1–5 retrievals were assessed. Two expert chest radiologists evaluated the visual similarities between the query and retrieved CT scans using a five-point scale grading system. The rates of retrieving the same pairs of query CTs were 60.0% (30/50) and 68.0% (34/50) for top-three and top-five retrievals. Radiologists rated 64.8% (95% confidence interval 58.8–70.4) of the retrieved CT scans with a visual similarity score of four or five and at least one case scored five points in 74% (74/100) of all query cases. The proposed CBIR system for obstructive lung disease integrating quantitative CT measures demonstrated potential for retrieving chest CT scans with similar imaging phenotypes. Further refinement and validation in this field would be valuable.
Highly conductive, conformable ionic laser-induced graphene electrodes for flexible iontronic devices
Authors: Kim So Young , Kim Ji Hong , Kim Kyeong Nam , Oh Hayoung , Myung Sung , Kim Do Hwan
Published: February 2024

Iontronic devices, recognized for user-friendly soft electronics, establish an electrical double layer (EDL) at the interface between ion gels and electrodes, significantly influencing device performance. Despite extensive research on ion gels and diverse electrode materials, achieving a stable interfacial formation remains a persistent challenge. In this work, we report a solution to address this challenge by employing CO2 irradiation as a bottom-up methodology to directly fabricate highly conductive, conformable laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrodes on a polyimide (PI)-based ion gel. The PI ion gel exhibits exceptional EDL formation at the electrode interface, primarily attributable to efficient ion migration. Particularly, ionic laser-induced graphene (i-LIG) electrodes, derived from the PI ion gel as a precursor, yield high-quality graphene with enhanced crystallinity and an expanded porous structure in the upward direction. This outcome is achieved through a pronounced thermal transfer effect and intercalation phenomenon between graphene layers, facilitated by the presence of ionic liquids (ILs) within the PI ion gel. Ultimately, in comparison to alternative soft electrode-based vertical capacitors, the utilization of i-LIGs and PI ion gels in the vertical capacitor demonstrates reduced interfacial resistance and increased EDL capacitance, emphasizing the extensive potential of iontronic devices. These results not only highlight these features but also introduce a new perspective for advancing next-generation iontronic devices.
Prediction of heavy-section ductile iron fracture toughness based on machine learning
Authors: Song Liang , Zhang Hongcheng , Zhang Junxing , Guo Hai
Published: February 2024

The preparation process and composition design of heavy-section ductile iron are the key factors affecting its fracture toughness. These factors are challenging to address due to the long casting cycle, high cost and complex influencing factors of this type of iron. In this paper, 18 cubic physical simulation test blocks with 400 mm wall thickness were prepared by adjusting the C, Si and Mn contents in heavy-section ductile iron using a homemade physical simulation casting system. Four locations with different cooling rates were selected for each specimen, and 72 specimens with different compositions and cooling times of the heavy-section ductile iron were prepared. Six machine learning-based heavy-section ductile iron fracture toughness predictive models were constructed based on measured data with the C content, Si content, Mn content and cooling rate as input data and the fracture toughness as the output data. The experimental results showed that the constructed bagging model has high accuracy in predicting the fracture toughness of heavy-section ductile iron, with a coefficient of coefficient (R2) of 0.9990 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.2373.
Estimation of footprints of the canine stifle ligaments using deformable shape templates of bones
Authors: Lin Yu-Ying , Lin Cheng-Chung , Wu Ching-Ho
Published: February 2024

Knowledge regarding the ligament footprints in the canine stifle is essential for biomechanical modeling of the joint and patient-specific surgical planning for anatomical ligament reconstruction. The present study aimed to establish and evaluate deformable shape templates (DSTs) of the femur and tibia with footprints of the cruciate and collateral ligaments embedded for the noninvasive estimation of ligament footprint positions. To this end, a data set of computed tomography (CT)-derived surface models of the femur and tibia were established and used to build statistical shape models (SSMs). The contours of the stifle ligaments were obtained from CT scans of 27 hindlimb specimens with radio-opaque markings on the ligament footprints. The DST, constructed by embedding averaged footprint contours into the SSM, was used to estimate subject-specific ligament footprints in a leave-one-out cross-validation framework. The DST predictions were compared with those derived from radio-opaque-marked footprints. The results showed that the averaged Euclidean distances between the estimated and reference footprint centroids were less than 1.2 mm for the cruciate ligaments and 2.0 mm for the collateral ligaments. The DST appeared to provide a feasible alternative approach for noninvasively estimating the footprints of the stifle ligaments in vivo.
A biocompatible NPK+Fe+Zn slow release fertilizer: synthesis and its evaluation in tomato plant growth improvement
Authors: Raiesi Ardali Tahereh , Ma’mani Leila , Chorom Mostafa , Motamedi Elaheh , Fathi Gharebaba Mohammad
Published: February 2024

Slow-release fertilizers (SRFs) play an essential and necessary role in sustainable agriculture. Using slow-release and environment friendly fertilizers can increase the growth of plants and reduce the loss of nutrients. Considering the deficiency of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in calcareous soils, a slow-release fertilizer was prepared based on the polymeric nanocomposite, which contains NPK, Fe, and Zn. Its potential was evaluated on tomato plant growth by conducting an experiment in a factorial completely randomized design with three replications. Two levels of salinity (2 and 5 ds m−1, two types of soil texture) clay loam and sandy loam) and five levels of fertilizers were examined in the experiment. To this, the graphene oxide-chitosan coated-humic acid@Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4@HA@GO-Cs), and the graphene oxide-chitosan coated-ammonium zinc phosphate (AZP@GO-Cs) were used as Fe and Zn sources, respectively. Then, the optimal Fe and Zn fertilizers in the presence of urea, phosphorus, and potassium slow- release fertilizers (SRF) were investigated under greenhouse conditions. The results indicated that the best improvement in growth and nutrient uptake in plants was achieved by using the SRF. Notably, in the shoots of tomato plants, the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, Fe, and Zn concentration increased by 44, 66, 46, 75, and 74% compared to the control. The use of nanofertilizer can be an effective, biocompatible, and economical option to provide Fe and Zn demand in plants.
Efficacy and safety of a submucosal injection solution of sodium alginate for endoscopic resection in a porcine model
Authors: Jung Kyung Uk , Lee Yeon Jae , Jang Jae-Young , Cho Joo Young
Published: February 2024

Endoscopic resection techniques require the use of submucosal injection. Normal saline and sodium hyaluronate solutions are mainly used for this purpose, but an ideal solution has not yet been developed. The aim of this study was to assess a new solution, MC-003—a novel submucosal injection solution developed with sodium alginate as the main ingredient. Normal saline, a commercial sodium hyaluronate solution (Endo-Ease), and MC-003 were examined. A total of 18 gastric submucosal cushions were created in the stomachs of six pigs. The height of mucosal elevation was measured sequentially using endoscopic sonography. After euthanizing the animals either 2 h or 5 days after the procedure, pathologic examination was performed for each injection site. Although not statistically significant over the entire study period, MC-003 showed a superior result to normal saline and an equivalent result to Endo-Ease in the submucosal cushion height and its rate of decrease. There were no adverse outcomes after injection of the three solutions and there was no pathologically identified detrimental change in the resected specimens. MC-003 creates a sufficient submucosal fluid cushion without apparent tissue damage. It can be considered as an effective submucosal injection material.
Nature-inspired peptide of MtDef4 C-terminus tail enables protein delivery in mammalian cells
Authors: Lifshits Lucia Adriana , Breuer Yoav , Sova Marina , Gupta Sumit , Kadosh Dar , Weinberg Evgeny , Hayouka Zvi , Bar Daniel Z. , Gal Maayan
Published: February 2024

Cell-penetrating peptides show promise as versatile tools for intracellular delivery of therapeutic agents. Various peptides have originated from natural proteins with antimicrobial activity. We investigated the mammalian cell-penetrating properties of a 16-residue peptide with the sequence GRCRGFRRRCFCTTHC from the C-terminus tail of the Medicago truncatula defensin MtDef4. We evaluated the peptide’s ability to penetrate multiple cell types. Our results demonstrate that the peptide efficiently penetrates mammalian cells within minutes and at a micromolar concentration. Moreover, upon N-terminal fusion to the fluorescent protein GFP, the peptide efficiently delivers GFP into the cells. Despite its remarkable cellular permeability, the peptide has only a minor effect on cellular viability, making it a promising candidate for developing a cell-penetrating peptide with potential therapeutic applications.
Detection and management of coal seam outcrop fire in China: a case study
Authors: Liu Yang , Qi Xuyao , Luo Dayong , Zhang Yongqing , Qin Jiangtao
Published: February 2024

The outcrop fire area in Rujigou Coal Mine in Ningxia, China has been burning continuously for over 100 years. This not only results in wastage of resources but also poses significant damage to the ecological environment. Previous research on open fire detection has mainly focused on coalfield fire areas, using single method such as infrared remote sensing or surface temperature measurement, magnetic method, electrical method, radon measurement and mercurimetry. However, the outcrop fire area has migrated to deeper parts over the years, conventional single fire zone detection methods are not capable of accurately detecting the extent of the fire zone, inversion interpretation is faced with the problem of many solutions. In fire management, current research focuses on the development of new materials, such as fly ash gel, sodium silicate gel, etc., However, it is often difficult to quickly extinguish outcrop fire areas with a single technique. Considering this status quo, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) infrared thermal imaging was employed to initially detect the scope of the outcrop fire area, and then both the spontaneous potential and directional drilling methods were adopted for further scope detection in pursuit of more accurate results. In addition, an applicable fire prevention and extinguishing system was constructed, in which three-phase foam was injected for the purpose of absorbing heat and cooling. Furthermore, the composite colloid was used to plug air leakage channels, and loess was backfilled to avoid re-combustion. The comprehensive detection and control technologies proposed in this study can be applied to eliminating the outcrop fire area and protecting the environment. This study can provide guidance and reference for the treatment of other outcrop fire areas.
Study of cooling experiment and simulation for edible oil storage
Authors: Xiao Du , Yan Chen , Desheng Sun
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes a refrigerant cooling method using an inner tube in a storage tank to improve the cooling performance and thermal uniformity during the storing of edible oil. With a prototype of an oil tank in Central Grain Reserve of Zhenjiang, the experimental oil tank was built in a scale of 50:1. Both natural and manual cooling experiments were carried out for the experimental tank. The manual cooling process involved two supplying modes for the refrigerant tube (top and bottom) and four different refrigerant temperatures (10 ℃, 12 ℃, 14 ℃, 16 ℃). The experimental results show that, compared with natural cooling, manual cooling can effectively reduce the temperature difference and thermal stratification between upper and lower layers. The temperature difference is 6.79 ℃, 1.93 ℃, and 3.67 ℃ for the natural cooling, manual top supplying, and manual bottom supplying mode, respectively. Furthermore, for the two manual modes, the cooling efficiency of bottom supplying is 21.4% higher than that of the top supplying, and the average oil temperature drops by 0.8–1 ℃. Based on experimental results, different working conditions (20, 40, and 60 ml/s) were simulated to determine the optimal flow rate for bottom supplying mode. The simulation results indicate that the low flow rate (20 ml/s) corresponds to the best thermal uniformity, and the maximum temperature has no obvious change under different flow rate conditions. Therefore, it is not necessary to increase the flow rate to improve cooling efficiency considering the rising energy consumption.
High-resolution rectoscopy using MHz optical coherence tomography: a step towards real time 3D endoscopy
Authors: Schulte Berenice , Göb Madita , Singh Awanish Pratap , Lotz Simon , Draxinger Wolfgang , Heimke Marvin , pieper Mario , Heinze Tillmann , Wedel Thilo , Rahlves Maik , Huber Robert , Ellrichmann Mark
Published: February 2024

Colonoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound play pivotal roles in the assessment of rectal diseases, especially rectal cancer and inflammatory bowel diseases. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers a superior depth resolution, which is a critical factor for individualizing the therapeutic concept and evaluating the therapy response. We developed two distinct rectoscope prototypes, which were integrated into a 1300 nm MHz-OCT system constructed at our facility. The rapid rotation of the distal scanning probe at 40,000 revolutions per minute facilitates a 667 Hz OCT frame rate, enabling real-time endoscopic imaging of large areas. The performance of these OCT-rectoscopes was assessed in an ex vivo porcine colon and a post mortem human in-situ colon. The OCT-rectoscope consistently distinguished various layers of the intestinal wall, identified gut-associated lymphatic tissue, and visualized a rectal polyp during the imaging procedure with 3D-reconstruction in real time. Subsequent histological examination confirmed these findings. The body donor was preserved using an ethanol-glycerol-lysoformin-based technique for true-to-life tissue consistency. We could demonstrate that the novel MHZ-OCT-rectoscope effectively discriminates rectal wall layers and crucial tissue characteristics in a post mortem human colon in-situ. This real-time-3D-OCT holds promise as a valuable future diagnostic tool for assessing disease state and therapy response on-site in rectal diseases.
Visual salience is affected in participants with schizophrenia during free-viewing
Authors: Yoshida Masatoshi , Miura Kenichiro , Fujimoto Michiko , Yamamori Hidenaga , Yasuda Yuka , Iwase Masao , Hashimoto Ryota
Published: February 2024

Abnormalities in visual exploration affect the daily lives of patients with schizophrenia. For example, scanpath length during free-viewing is shorter in schizophrenia. However, its origin and its relevance to symptoms are unknown. Here we investigate the possibility that abnormalities in eye movements result from abnormalities in visual or visuo-cognitive processing. More specifically, we examined whether such abnormalities reflect visual salience in schizophrenia. Eye movements of 82 patients and 252 healthy individuals viewing natural and/or complex images were examined using saliency maps for static images to determine the contributions of low-level visual features to salience-guided eye movements. The results showed that the mean value for orientation salience at the gazes of the participants with schizophrenia were higher than that of the healthy control subjects. Further analyses revealed that orientation salience defined by the L + M channel of the DKL color space is specifically affected in schizophrenia, suggesting abnormalities in the magnocellular visual pathway. By looking into the computational stages of the visual salience, we found that the difference between schizophrenia and healthy control emerges at the earlier stage, suggesting functional decline in early visual processing. These results suggest that visual salience is affected in schizophrenia, thereby expanding the concept of the aberrant salience hypothesis of psychosis to the visual domain.
Experimental research on compressive strength deterioration of coal seam floor sandstone under the action of acidic mine drainage
Authors: Han Wenmei , Chen Zhaoying , Liu Hongtai , Zheng Xiang , Wu Jinwen , Yuan Qi
Published: February 2024

In sulphur-coal symbiotic coal seams, after the mining of sulphide iron ore, when the coal resources are mined, the mine water accumulated in the roadway mining area will have a certain impact on the stability of the surrounding rock of the coal seam roadway. Taking the floor sandstone of sulfur coal symbiotic coal seam as the research object, the roof fissure water with pH values of 7.48, 4.81 and 2.62 was used as the experimental solution. 10 experimental schemes were designed to measure the compressive strength of the samples under the action of AMD, and the hydrochemical analysis of AMD was conducted. The pore structures of the samples before and after the action of AMD were analyzed. Based on the hydrochemistry and pore structure, the deterioration mechanism of compressive strength of the coal seam floor sandstone under the action of AMD was explained. The results indicated that the compressive strength of the samples decreased with the increasing action time of AMD. The compressive strength decreased with the increment of the porosity. The concentration of H+ ion in AMD was relatively small. Na2O in albite dissolved and reacted with water, leading to an increase in the concentration of Na+ ion. Soluble substances such as MgCl2 and CaSO4 in the pore structure dissolved, leading to an increase in the concentration of Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. The dissolution of soluble substances and the physical–chemical reactions between solutions and minerals were the essential causes of the continuous deterioration of the compressive strength of the coal seam floor sandstone. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis for the deterioration of the mechanical properties of the peripheral rock in the roadway of the sulphur coal seam, and can also provide a certain engineering reference for the sulphur coal seam roadway.
Epidemiology and prognostic nomogram for chronic eosinophilic leukemia: a population-based study using the SEER database
Authors: Wang Jinlin , Lin Meitong , Wang Fan
Published: February 2024

Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia (CEL), a rare and intricate hematological disorder characterized by uncontrolled eosinophilic proliferation, presents clinical challenges owing to its infrequency. This study aimed to investigate epidemiology and develop a prognostic nomogram for CEL patients. Utilizing the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database, CEL cases diagnosed between 2001 and 2020 were analyzed for incidence rates, clinical profiles, and survival outcomes. Patients were randomly divided into training and validation cohorts (7:3 ratio). LASSO regression analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to screen the prognostic factors for overall survival. A nomogram was then constructed and validated to predict the 3- and 5-year overall survival probability of CEL patients by incorporating these factors. The incidence rate of CEL was very low, with an average of 0.033 per 100,000 person-years from 2001 to 2020. The incidence rate significantly increased with age and was higher in males than females. The mean age at diagnosis was 57 years. Prognostic analysis identified advanced age, specific marital statuses, and secondary CEL as independent and adverse predictors of overall survival. To facilitate personalized prognostication, a nomogram was developed incorporating these factors, demonstrating good calibration and discrimination. Risk stratification using the nomogram effectively differentiated patients into low- and high-risk groups. This study enhances our understanding of CEL, offering novel insights into its epidemiology, demographics, and prognostic determinants, while providing a possible prognostication tool for clinical use. However, further research is warranted to elucidate molecular mechanisms and optimize therapeutic strategies for CEL.
Spatial heterogeneity of peri-tumoural lipid composition in postmenopausal patients with oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer
Authors: Cheung Sai Man , Chan Kwok-Shing , Zhou Wenshu , Husain Ehab , Gagliardi Tanja , Masannat Yazan , He Jiabao
Published: February 2024

Deregulation of lipid composition in adipose tissue adjacent to breast tumour is observed in ex vivo and animal models. Novel non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows rapid lipid mapping of the human whole breast. We set out to elucidate the spatial heterogeneity of peri-tumoural lipid composition in postmenopausal patients with oestrogen receptor positive (ER +) breast cancer. Thirteen participants (mean age, 62 ± [SD] 6 years) with ER + breast cancer and 13 age-matched postmenopausal healthy controls were scanned on MRI. The number of double bonds in triglycerides was computed from MRI images to derive lipid composition maps of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fatty acids (MUFA, PUFA, SFA). The spatial heterogeneity measures (mean, median, skewness, entropy and kurtosis) of lipid composition in the peri-tumoural region and the whole breast of participants and in the whole breast of controls were computed. The Ki-67 proliferative activity marker and CD163 antibody on tumour-associated macrophages were assessed histologically. Mann Whitney U or Wilcoxon tests and Spearman’s coefficients were used to assess group differences and correlations, respectively. For comparison against the whole breast in participants, peri-tumoural MUFA had a lower mean (median (IQR), 0.40 (0.02), p < .001), lower median (0.42 (0.02), p < .001), a negative skewness with lower magnitude (− 1.65 (0.77), p = .001), higher entropy (4.35 (0.64), p = .007) and lower kurtosis (5.13 (3.99), p = .001). Peri-tumoural PUFA had a lower mean (p < .001), lower median (p < .001), a positive skewness with higher magnitude (p = .005) and lower entropy (p = .002). Peri-tumoural SFA had a higher mean (p < .001), higher median (p < .001), a positive skewness with lower magnitude (p < .001) and lower entropy (p = .012). For comparison against the whole breast in controls, peri-tumoural MUFA had a negative skewness with lower magnitude (p = .01) and lower kurtosis (p = .009), however there was no difference in PUFA or SFA. CD163 moderately correlated with peri-tumoural MUFA skewness (rs = − .64), PUFA entropy (rs = .63) and SFA skewness (rs = .59). There was a lower MUFA and PUFA while a higher SFA, and a higher heterogeneity of MUFA while a lower heterogeneity of PUFA and SFA, in the peri-tumoural region in comparison with the whole breast tissue. The degree of lipid deregulation was associated with inflammation as indicated by CD163 antibody on macrophages, serving as potential marker for early diagnosis and response to therapy.
Binary decisions of artificial intelligence to classify third molar development around the legal age thresholds of 14, 16 and 18 years
Authors: Franco Ademir , Murray Jared , Heng Dennis , Lygate Anna , Moreira Debora , Ferreira Jaqueline , Miranda e Paulo Djessyca , Machado Carlos Palhares , Bueno Juliano , Mânica Scheila , Porto Lucas , Abade André , Paranhos Luiz Renato
Published: February 2024

Third molar development is used for dental age estimation when all the other teeth are fully mature. In most medicolegal facilities, dental age estimation is an operator-dependent procedure. During the examination of unaccompanied and undocumented minors, this procedure may lead to binary decisions around age thresholds of legal interest, namely the ages of 14, 16 and 18 years. This study aimed to test the performance of artificial intelligence to classify individuals below and above the legal age thresholds of 14, 16 and 18 years using third molar development. The sample consisted of 11,640 panoramic radiographs (9680 used for training and 1960 used for validation) of males (n = 5400) and females (n = 6240) between 6 and 22.9 years. Computer-based image annotation was performed with V7 software (V7labs, London, UK). The region of interest was the mandibular left third molar (T38) outlined with a semi-automated contour. DenseNet121 was the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) of choice and was used with Transfer Learning. After Receiver-operating characteristic curves, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.87 and 0.86 to classify males and females below and above the age of 14, respectively. For the age threshold of 16, the AUC values were 0.88 (males) and 0.83 (females), while for the age of 18, AUC were 0.94 (males) and 0.83 (females). Specificity rates were always between 0.80 and 0.92. Artificial intelligence was able to classify male and females below and above the legal age thresholds of 14, 16 and 18 years with high accuracy.
Study of the mechanism by gentiopicroside protects against skin fibroblast glycation damage via the RAGE pathway
Authors: Chen Chunyu , Liu Xiaoxing , Li Li , Guo Miaomiao , He Yifan , Dong Yinmao , Meng Hong , Yi Fan
Published: February 2024

The occurrence of nonenzymatic glycosylation reactions in skin fibroblasts can lead to severe impairment of skin health. To investigate the protective effects of the major functional ingredient from Gentianaceae, gentiopicroside (GPS) on fibroblasts, network pharmacology was used to analyse the potential pathways and targets underlying the effects of GPS on skin. At the biochemical and cellular levels, we examined the inhibitory effect of GPS on AGEs, the regulation by GPS of key ECM proteins and vimentin, the damage caused by GPS to the mitochondrial membrane potential and the modulation by GPS of inflammatory factors such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and IL-6 via the RAGE/NF-κB pathway. The results showed that GPS can inhibit AGE-induced damage to the dermis via multiple pathways. The results of biochemical and cellular experiments showed that GPS can strongly inhibit AGE production. Conversely, GPS can block AGE-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in skin cells by disrupting AGE-RAGE signalling, maintain the balance of ECM synthesis and catabolism, and alleviate AGE-induced dysfunctions in cellular behaviour. This study provides a theoretical basis for the use of GPS as an AGE inhibitor to improve skin health and alleviate the damage caused by glycosylation, showing its potential application value in the field of skin care.
Near-term projection of Amazon rainfall dominated by phase transition of the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation
Authors: Liu Yi , Cai Wenju , Zhang Yu , Lin Xiaopei , Li Ziguang
Published: February 2024

The Amazon basin experienced a prolonged drought condition during the 2010s, leading to a large-scale forest degradation destructive to ecosystems and human society. Elusive are issues as to whether the decadal drought is driven by external forcing or internal variability, and whether the drought will continue or recover soon. Using large ensemble simulations from a state-of-the-art climate model, here we find a negative-to-positive phase transition of the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO) explains ~45% (~40–49%) of the observed decadal drought of Amazon rainfall since 2010, much greater than the role of external forcing (~12%). Constraining future IPO phase transition reduces the uncertainty by ~38% from a range of −0.73 to + 0.31 mm day−1 decade−1 to a range of −0.42 to + 0.23 mm day−1 decade−1, of the near-term Amazon rainfall projection before 2040 under a mid-intensity emission scenario. Thus, the IPO plays a crucial role in the post-2010 drying and the near-term rainfall projection.
Genomic landscape of liquid biopsy mutations in TP53 and DNA damage genes in cancer patients
Authors: Vasseur Damien , Arbab Ahmadreza , Giudici Fabiola , Marzac Christophe , Michiels Stefan , Tagliamento Marco , Bayle Arnaud , Smolenschi Cristina , Sakkal Madona , Aldea Mihaela , Sassi Hela , Dall’Olio Filippo Gustavo , Pata-Merci Noémie , Cotteret Sophie , Fiévet Alice , Auger Nathalie , Friboulet Luc , Facchinetti Francesco , Géraud Arthur , Ponce Santiago , Hollebecque Antoine , Besse Benjamin , Micol Jean Baptiste , Italiano Antoine , Lacroix Ludovic , Rouleau Etienne
Published: February 2024

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays based on plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) are increasingly used for clinical trials inclusion. Their optimized limit of detection applied to a large number of genes leads to the identification of mutations not confirmed in tissue. It becomes essential to describe the characteristics and consequences of these liquid biopsy-only mutations. In the STING protocol (Gustave Roussy, NCT04932525), 542 patients with advanced solid cancer had cfDNA-based and tissue-based NGS analysis (performed by FoundationOne® Liquid CDx and FoundationOne CDx™, respectively). Mutations identified in the liquid biopsy but not in the paired tissue were considered as liquid biopsy-only mutations irrespective of their variant allelic frequency (VAF). Out of 542 patients, 281 (51.8%) harbored at least one liquid biopsy-only mutation. These patients were significantly older, and more heavily pretreated. Liquid biopsy-only mutations occurring in TP53, and in DDR genes (ATM, CHEK2, ATR, BRCA2, and BRCA1) accounted for 90.8% of all the mutations. The median VAF of these mutations was generally low (0.37% and 0.40% for TP53 and DDR genes respectively). The variant type repartition depended on the gene. Liquid biopsy-only mutations affected hotspot in TP53 codon 273, 125, 195, 176, 237 or 280 and ATM codon 2891 and 3008. In a subset of 37 patients, 75.0%, 53.5% and 83.3% of the liquid biopsy-only mutations occurring respectively in ATM, TP53, and CHEK2 were confirmed in the matching whole blood sample. Although liquid biopsy-only mutations makes the interpretation of liquid biopsy results more complex, they have distinct characteristics making them more easily identifiable.
Separation and purification of fluorescent carbon dots – an unmet challenge
Authors: Ullal Namratha , Mehta Riya , Sunil Dhanya
Published: February 2024

Different purification techniques for carbon dots.
Enhanced TNT vapor sensing through a PMMA-mediated AIPE-active monocyclometalated iridium(iii) complex: a leap towards real-time monitoring
Authors: Bhatta Ram Prasad , Agarwal Annu , Kachwal Vishal , Raichure Pramod C. , Laskar Inamur Rahaman
Published: February 2024

Ir-complex with PMMA composite showed enhanced quantum efficiency and the large number of pores facilitating to trap TNT vapors effectively, thus improved sensitivity.
Beyond helium: hydrogen as a carrier gas in multiresidue pesticide analysis in fruits and vegetables by GC-MS/MS
Authors: Cutillas Víctor , García-Gallego Guillermo , Murcia-Morales María , Ferrer Carmen , Fernández-Alba Amadeo R.
Published: February 2024

In this comprehensive study, we evaluated the feasibility of using hydrogen instead of helium as a carrier gas in a GC-MS/MS system for pesticide residue analysis, spanning three matrices: pepper, tomato, and zucchini.
A low-cost voltammetric sensor based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes for highly sensitive and accurate determination of nanomolar levels of the anticancer drug Ribociclib in bulk and biological fluids
Authors: Bouali Wiem , Erk Nevin , Genc Asena Ayse
Published: February 2024

The development and comprehensive characterization of the first electrochemical sensor utilizing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for the sensitive and precise detection of Ribociclib (RIBO), an important anticancer drug.
Variational quantum eigensolver for closed-shell molecules with non-bosonic corrections
Authors: Kim Kyungmin , Lim Sumin , Shin Kyujin , Lee Gwonhak , Jung Yousung , Kyoung Woomin , Rhee June-Koo Kevin , Rhee Young Min
Published: February 2024

Bosonic VQE that maps one pair of electrons in one spatial orbital to one single qubit, combined with a pair-crossing heuristic non-bosonic correction leads to favorable scaling in quantum resources and reliable prediction on ground state potential.
Graphyne-based 3D porous structure and its sandwich-type graphene structure for alkali metal ion battery anode materials
Authors: Liu Haidong , Li Xiaowei , Chen Haotian , Chen Jin , Shi Zixun
Published: February 2024

Here, a three-dimensional (3D) porous structure 3D-PGY was designed based on graphene, and a sandwich structure graphene/PGY/graphene (G/PGY/G) was constructed by adjusting the distance between two layers of graphene with 3D-PGY as the middle layer.
Biocatalysis: landmark discoveries and applications in chemical synthesis
Authors: O’Connell Adam , Barry Amber , Burke Ashleigh J. , Hutton Amy E. , Bell Elizabeth L. , Green Anthony P. , O’Reilly Elaine
Published: February 2024

This tutorial review will give readers an insight into the landmark discoveries and milestones that have helped shape and grow the field of biocatalysis since the discovery of the first enzyme.
Recent advances in super-resolution optical imaging based on aggregation-induced emission
Authors: Zhu Feng-Yu , Mei Li-Jun , Tian Rui , Li Chong , Wang Ya-Long , Xiang Shi-Li , Zhu Ming-Qiang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2024

From aggregation-induced emission to super-resolution imaging: the significance of reversible dynamic interaction.
Understanding the active sites and associated reaction pathways of metal-free carbocatalysts in persulfate activation and pollutant degradation
Authors: Hu Huawen , Chen Dongchu , Liang Yaoheng , Wang Wenyi , Lin Yinlei , Xu Xuejun , Wang Xiaowen , Wang Kun , Zhang Yuyuan , Ou Jian Zhen
Published: February 2024

Environmental remediation based on peroxomonosulfate- and peroxydisulfate-activation-enabled radical/non-radical oxidation has gained growing interest due to the strong oxidation power, long life of reactive oxygen species, and wide pH adaptability.
Extractability of oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, verbascoside and flavonoid-derivatives from olive leaves using ohmic heating (a green process for value addition)
Authors: Markhali Fereshteh Safarzadeh , Teixeira José A.
Published: February 2024

This figure highlights the effectiveness of ohmic heating (considering extraction temperature and solvent ratio) compared to conventional heating in the recovery of representative polar phenols of olive leaves.
Stilbenes-enriched peanut sprouts alleviated physical fatigue via regulating interactions of nutrients–microbiota–metabolites revealed by multi-omics analysis
Authors: Zhu Tong , Pan Qi , Xiao Kunpeng , Zuo Changzhou , Liu Qiang , Zhou Dandan , Tu Kang
Published: February 2024

In this study, the antifatigue effect and mechanism of peanut sprouts were explored.
Eco-foaming lignin for innovative rigid foam
Authors: Yan Qiangu , Ketelboeter Timothy , Fan Wenjun , Wan Caixia , Cai Zhiyong
Published: February 2024

Innovative rigid foam with open cells is prepared by eco-foaming lignin as the sole substrate via a baking method.
Spatiotemporal characterization of cerium monoxide in laser ablation plasmas using spectrally-resolved fast-gated imaging
Authors: Kwapis Emily H. , Hartig Kyle C.
Published: February 2024

Previously unidentified CeO hot bands and fundamental insights into the plasma-gas intermixing dynamics of laser ablation plasmas are presented.
Multiplexed elemental bioimaging with quadrupole ICP-MS and high-frequency laser ablation systems
Authors: Lockwood Thomas E. , Westerhausen Mika T. , Bishop David P.
Published: February 2024

High-frequency lasers eliminate aliasing and the need for synchronisation. This opens the way for highly multiplexed imaging by quadrupole LA-ICP-MS.
Characterization of alkaline earth metal-doped CeO2 nanocatalysts and their catalytic activities in the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate through a reaction between methanol and CO2
Authors: Wang Aili , Wang Hao , Ji Mengyi , Yin Hengbo
Published: February 2024

Alkaline earth metal (Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+)-doped CeO2 nanocatalysts have been prepared by the successive co-precipitation and calcination method.