bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of carbon content on electronic structure of uranium carbides
Authors: Butorin Sergei M. , Bauters Stephen , Amidani Lucia , Beck Aaron , Rossberg André , Weiss Stephan , Vitova Tonya , Kvashnina Kristina O. , Tougait Olivier
Published: November 2023

The electronic structure of UC$$_x$$

x

(x = 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 2.0) was studied by means of x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) at the C K edge and measurements in the high energy resolution fluorescence detection (HERFD) mode at the U $$M_4$$

M
4

and $$L_3$$

L
3

edges. The full-relativistic density functional theory calculations taking into account the $$5f-5f$$

5
f
-
5
f

Coulomb interaction U and spin-orbit coupling (DFT+U+SOC) were also performed for UC and UC$$_2$$

2

. While the U $$L_3$$

L
3

HERFD-XAS spectra of the studied samples reveal little difference, the U $$M_4$$

M
4

HERFD-XAS spectra show certain sensitivity to the varying carbon content in uranium carbides. The observed gradual changes in the U $$M_4$$

M
4

HERFD spectra suggest an increase in the C 2p-U 5f charge transfer, which is supported by the orbital population analysis in the DFT+U+SOC calculations, indicating an increase in the U 5f occupancy in UC$$_2$$

2

as compared to that in UC. On the other hand, the density of states at the Fermi level were found to be significantly lower in UC$$_2$$

2

, thus affecting the thermodynamic properties. Both the x-ray spectroscopic data (in particular, the C K XAS measurements) and results of the DFT+U+SOC calculations indicate the importance of taking into account U and SOC for the description of the electronic structure of actinide carbides.
High viral suppression and detection of dolutegravir-resistance associated mutations in treatment-experienced Tanzanian adults living with HIV-1 in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Bwire George M. , Aiko Beatrice Godwin , Mosha Idda H. , Kilapilo Mary S. , Mangara Alli , Kazonda Patrick , Swai Janeth P. , Swalehe Omary , Jordan Michael R. , Vercauteren Jurgen , Sando David , Temba David , Shao Amani , Mauka Wilhellmuss , Decouttere Catherine , Vandaele Nico , Sangeda Raphael Z. , Killewo Japhet , Vandamme Anne-Mieke
Published: November 2023

To curb HIV infection rate in Tanzania, antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been scaled up since 2006, and in 2019, the country shifted to regimen including dolutegravir as a default first line. We assessed the success of ART and the contribution of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) to unsuppressed viral loads. Between February and May 2023 a cross-sectional survey with random sampling was conducted in the six clinics in an urban cohort in Dar es Salaam. Patients with unsuppresed viral loads (local criteria viral load (VL) ≥ 1000 copies/mL) were tested for HIVDR mutations using the WHO adapted protocol for plasma samples. Mutations were interpreted using the Stanford HIVDR database. In total 600 individuals participated in this survey, the majority were female (76.83%), mean age ($$\pm$$
±
standard deviation) was 44.0 ($$\pm$$
±
11.6) years. The median duration on ART (interquartile range) was 6.5 (3.9–10.2) years. Approximately 99% were receiving tenofovir + lamivudine + dolutegravir as a fixed dose combination. VL testing was successful in 99.67% (598/600) of survey patients and only 33 had VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL, resulting in a viral suppression level of 94.48% (565/598, 95% CI 92.34–96.17%). For 23 samples, protease and reverse transcriptase (RT) genotyping were successful, with 13 sequences containing RT inhibitor surveillance drug resistance mutations (SDRMs) (56.5%). No SDRM against protease inhibitors were detected. Thirty samples were successfully genotyped for integrase with 3 sequences (10.08%) containing integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) SDRMs. In samples successfully genotyped in the three genetic regions, 68.18% (16/22) had a genotypic susceptibility score (GSS) ≥ 2.5 for the concurrent regimen, implying factors beyond drug resistance caused the unsuppressed viral load. For five patients, GSS indicated that HIVDR may have caused the unsuppressed viral load. All three patients with INSTI resistance mutations were highly resistant to dolutegravir and accumulated nucleoside and non-nucleoside RT inhibitor HIVDR mutations. Although in this cohort the last 95 UNAIDS target was almost achieved, HIVDR mutations, including INSTIs resistance mutations were detected in HIV-positive individuals taking ART for at least one year. We recommend the design and implementation of high-impact interventions to prevent the increase of HIVDR, failure of dolutegravir and address the non-resistance factors in the study area.
Customized virtual reality naturalistic scenarios promoting engagement and relaxation in patients with cognitive impairment: a proof-of-concept mixed-methods study
Authors: Pardini Susanna , Gabrielli Silvia , Gios Lorenzo , Dianti Marco , Mayora-Ibarra Oscar , Appel Lora , Olivetto Silvia , Torres Alina , Rigatti Patty , Trentini Emanuela , Leonardelli Lucia , Bernardi Michela , Lucianer Marzia , Forti Stefano , Novara Caterina
Published: November 2023

Being immersed in a natural context has a beneficial and pervasive impact on well-being. Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that can help expose people to naturalistic scenarios virtually, overcoming obstacles that prevent them from visiting real natural environments. VR could also increase engagement and relaxation in older adults with and without cognitive impairment. The main aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility of a customized naturalistic VR scenario by assessing motion-sickness effects, engagement, pleasantness, and emotions felt. Twenty-three individuals with a diagnosis of cognitive impairment living in a long-term care home participated in our study. At the end of the entire VR experimental procedure with older adults, five health staff operators took part in a dedicated assessment phase focused on evaluating the VR procedure's usability from their individual perspectives. The tools administered were based on self-reported and observational tools used to obtain information from users and health care staff professionals. Feasibility and acceptance proved to be satisfactory, considering that the VR experience was well-tolerated and no adverse side effects were reported. One of the major advantages emerged was the opportunity to deploy customized environments that users are not able to experience in a real context.

Trial Registration: National Institute of Health (NIH) U.S. National Library of Medicine, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05863065 (17/05/2023).
The expression changes of PD-L1 and immune response mediators are related to the severity of primary bone tumors
Authors: Eghtedari Amir Reza , Vaezi Mohammad Amin , Safari Elaheh , Salimi Vahid , Safizadeh Banafsheh , Babaheidarian Pegah , Abiri Amene , Mahdinia Elmira , Alireza Mirzaei  , Mokhles Parisa , Tavakoli-Yaraki Masoumeh
Published: November 2023

The expression pattern, diagnostic value, and association of PD-L1, IFN-γ and TGF-β with bone tumor type, severity, and relapse are determined in this study. 300 human samples from patients with osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and GCT were enrolled. The PD-L1 gene and protein expression were assessed by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. ELISA and flow cytometry was used to detect cytokines and CD4/CD8 T cell percentages, respectively. A considerable increase in PD-L1 level was detected in bone tumor tissues at both gene and protein levels that was considerable in osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. A positive correlation was detected regarding the PD-L1 and tumor metastasis and recurrence in osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. The increased IFN-γ level was detected in patients with metastatic, and recurrent osteosarcoma tumors that were in accordance with the level of TGF-β in these samples. The simultaneous elevation of IFN-γ and TGF-β was detected in Ewing sarcoma and GCT, also the CD4 + /CD8 + ratio was decreased significantly in patients with osteosarcoma compared to GCT tumors. The elevated levels of PD-L1, TGF- β, and IFN-γ were associated with bone tumor severity that can provide insights into the possible role of this axis in promoting immune system escape, suppression, and tumor invasion.
Cellular senescence triggers intracellular acidification and lysosomal pH alkalinized via ATP6AP2 attenuation in breast cancer cells
Authors: Li Wei , Kawaguchi Kosuke , Tanaka Sunao , He Chenfeng , Maeshima Yurina , Suzuki Eiji , Toi Masakazu
Published: November 2023

Several chemotherapeutic drugs induce senescence in cancer cells; however, the mechanisms underlying intracellular pH dysregulation in senescent cells remain unclear. Adenosine triphosphatase H+ transporting accessory protein 2 (ATP6AP2) plays a critical role in maintaining pH homeostasis in cellular compartments. Herein, we report the regulatory role of ATP6AP2 in senescent breast cancer cells treated with doxorubicin (Doxo) and abemaciclib (Abe). A decline in ATP6AP2 triggers aberrant pH levels that impair lysosomal function and cause immune profile changes in senescent breast cancer cells. Doxo and Abe elicited a stable senescent phenotype and altered the expression of senescence-related genes. Additionally, senescent cells show altered inflammatory and immune transcriptional profiles due to reprogramming of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. These findings elucidate ATP6AP2-mediated cellular pH regulation and suggest a potential link in immune profile alteration during therapy-induced senescence in breast cancer cells, providing insights into the mechanisms involved in the senescence response to anticancer therapy.
Hydrangea paniculata coumarins attenuate experimental membranous nephritis by bidirectional interactions with the gut microbiota
Authors: Li Zhaojun , Zhang Xingguang , Wu Haijie , Ma Zhiling , Liu Xikun , Ma Jie , Zhang Dongming , Sheng Li , Chen Xiaoguang , Zhang Sen
Published: November 2023

Coumarins isolated from Hydrangea paniculata (HP) had a renal protective effect in experimental membranous nephritis (MN), but the mechanisms are not clear. Currently, we investigate whether the modulation of gut dysbiosis by HP contributes to its renal protection. Experimental MN rats were treated with HP for six weeks. Fecal 16S rDNA sequencing and metabolomics were performed. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was used for the evaluation study. The results demonstrate that deteriorated renal function and gut dysbiosis are found in MN rats, as manifested by a higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and reduced diversity and richness, but both changes were reversed by HP treatment. Reduced gut dysbiosis is correlated with improved colonic integrity and lower endotoxemia in HP-treated rats. HP normalized the abnormal level of fecal metabolites by increasing short-chain fatty acid production and hindering the production of uremic toxin precursors. FMT of HP-treated feces to MN animals moderately reduced endotoxemia and albuminuria. Moreover, major coumarins in HP were only biotransformed into more bioactive 7-hydroxycoumarin by gut microbiota, which strengthened the effect of HP in vivo. Depletion of the gut microbiota partially abolished its renal protective effect. In conclusion, the bidirectional interaction between HP and the gut microbiota contributes to its beneficial effect.
Extensive freshened groundwater resources emplaced during the Messinian sea-level drawdown in southern Sicily, Italy
Authors: Lipparini Lorenzo , Chiacchieri Damiano , Bencini Roberto , Micallef Aaron
Published: November 2023

Deep groundwater resources around the world represent an important potential unconventional source of water. Here we document an extensive (17.3 km3) fresh/brackish groundwater body preserved in a deep (between 800 and 2100 m) carbonate platform aquifer (Gela Formation.) in southern Sicily (Italy), by using deep well data and a 3D hydrogeological modelling. We attribute the distribution of this fossil groundwater to topographically-driven meteoric recharge driven by the Messinian sea-level drawdown, which we estimate to have reached 2400 m below present sea level in the eastern Mediterranean Basin. The discovery of such an extensive and deep freshened groundwater has significant implications in terms of resource potential for southern Sicily as well as other Mediterranean coastal regions, which share similar geological setting and water scarcity issues.
An impedimetric immunosensor for diagnosis of Brazilian spotted fever in blood plasma
Authors: Araújo Pereira Marx Osório , Júnior Álvaro Ferreira , Batista Rodrigues Edson Silvio , Mulser Helena , Nascimento de Mello e Silva Giovanna , Pio dos Santos Wallans Torres , de Souza Gil Eric
Published: November 2023

Brazilian spotted fever (BSF) is a serious disease of medical importance due to its rapid evolution and high lethality.
N
4-Allylcytidine: a new nucleoside analogue for RNA labelling and chemical sequencing
Authors: Li Tengwei , Shu Xiao , Gao Minsong , Huang Chenyang , Li Ting , Cao Jie , Ying Xiner , Liu Donghong , Liu Jianzhao
Published: November 2023

N
4-Allylcytidine, a new nucleoside analogue, can be applied to label RNA via various fashions and then be post-identified at base resolution by iodination-mediated chemical sequencing.
Carbon-based electrocatalysts for rechargeable Zn–air batteries: design concepts, recent progress and future perspectives
Authors: Zou Xiaohong , Tang Mingcong , Lu Qian , Wang Ying , Shao Zongping , An Liang
Published: November 2023

This review provides an in-depth discussion of the carbon-based electrocatalysts for rechargeable Zn–air batteries from design strategies, research progress, and future perspectives.
Achieving a high loading of cathode in PVDF-based solid-state battery
Authors: Liu Yang , An Xufei , Yang Ke , Ma Jiabin , Mi Jinshuo , Zhang Danfeng , Cheng Xing , Li Yuhang , Ma Yuetao , Liu Ming , Kang Feiyu , He Yan-Bing
Published: November 2023

We construct an efficient Li+ transport network in a high loading cathode using carbon coated Li1.4Al0.4Ti1.6(PO4)3 nanowires, which has a strong adsorption for [Li(DMF)x]+ of PVDF-based SPEs to promote its uniform diffusion and stability in cathode.
Carrier density and delocalization signatures in doped carbon nanotubes from quantitative magnetic resonance
Authors: Hermosilla-Palacios M. Alejandra , Martinez Marissa , Doud Evan A. , Hertel Tobias , Spokoyny Alexander M. , Cambré Sofie , Wenseleers Wim , Kim Yong-Hyun , Ferguson Andrew J. , Blackburn Jeffrey L.
Published: November 2023

Molecular charge transfer doping affords widely tunable carrier density and conductivity in s-SWCNTs (and OSCs in general), however, a pervasive challenge for such systems is reliable measurement of charge carrier density and mobility.
An efficient interface modification material for improved efficiency and stability in inverted organic solar cells
Authors: Suo Zhaochen , Liu Jian , Li Shitong , Yao Zhaoyang , Li Chenxi , Wan Xiangjian , Chen Yongsheng
Published: November 2023

A hybrid ETL is reported for inverted structure OSCs by modifying ZnO with a molecule named NMA-C0. With the hybrid ETL, the device based on PM6:L8-BO achieves an efficiency of 18.31% with good thermal and photo stabilities.
Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs): a source to bring change in the properties of Co–Ni–Gd-ferrite/GNP nanocomposites
Authors: Latif Zartashia , Rehman Atta Ur , Amin Nasir , Arshad Muhammad Imran , Marzouki Riadh
Published: November 2023

The nanocomposites of Co0.5Ni0.5Gd0.03Fe1.97O4 and graphene nanoplatelets were prepared via a sol–gel auto combustion route. Their unique properties confirmed that the as-prepared nanocomposites can be employed in high-frequency devices as well as spintronic applications.
Tetrazole and acylsulfonamide bioisosteric replacements of the carboxylic acid in a dual MCL-1/BCL-xL inhibitor are tolerated
Authors: Chen Lijia , Lowe Brandon , Fletcher Steven
Published: November 2023

Replacement of a key carboxylic acid in a dual MCL-1/BCL-xL inhibitor with bioisosteres was successful, and resulted in the discovery of an acylsulfonamide-derived compound (7d) with the greatest anti-leukemic activity of the entire series.
One-dimensional nickel–cobalt bimetallic phosphide nanostructures for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Wang Yue , Chang Xin , Huang Zexing , Fan Jiahui , Li Lu , Zhang Mingyi
Published: November 2023

Electrospun nickel–cobalt bimetallic phosphide nanofibers exhibited both enhanced electrocatalytic activity and excellent long-term stability for the OER.
Initiatives to increase colonoscopy capacity – is there an impact on polyp detection? A UK National Endoscopy Database analysis
Authors: Rutter Matthew D. , Sharp Linda , Lu Liya , Catlow Jamie ,   on behalf of the NED-APRIQOT study team
Published: November 2023

Background To address mismatch between routine endoscopy capacity and demand, centers often implement initiatives to increase capacity, such as weekend working or using locums/agency staff (insourcing). However, there are concerns that such initiatives may negatively impact quality. We investigated polyp detection for weekend vs. weekday and insourced vs. standard procedures using data from the UK National Endoscopy Database.

Methods We conducted a national, retrospective, cross-sectional study of diagnostic colonoscopies performed during 01/01–04/04/2019. The primary outcome was mean number of polyps (MNP) and the secondary outcome was polyp detection rate (PDR). Multi-level mixed-effect regression, fitting endoscopist as a random effect, was used to examine associations between procedure day (weekend/weekday) and type (insourced/standard) and these outcomes, adjusting for patient age, sex, and indication.

Results 92 879 colonoscopies (weekends: 19 977 [21.5 %]; insourced: 9909 [10.7 %]) were performed by 2496 endoscopists. For weekend colonoscopies, patients were less often male or undergoing screening-related procedures; for insourced colonoscopies, patients were younger and less often undergoing screening-related procedures (all P < 0.05). Fully adjusted MNP was significantly lower for weekend vs. weekday (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 0.86 [95 %CI 0.83–0.89]) and for insourced vs. standard procedures (IRR 0.91 [95 %CI 0.87–0.95]). MNP was highest for weekday standard procedures and lowest for weekend insourced procedures; there was no interaction between procedure day and type. Similar associations were found for PDR.

Conclusions Strategies to increase colonoscopy capacity may negatively impact polyp detection and should be monitored for quality. Reasons for this unwarranted variation require investigation.
Functional Imaging of the Knee—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kim Kenneth C. , Wakeman Brooke , Wissman Rob
Published: November 2023

Knee pain is a common presenting problem in the general population. Radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the cornerstones of imaging in current clinical practice. With advancements in technology, there has been increasing utilization of other modalities to evaluate knee disorders. Dynamic assessment utilizing computed tomography and portable ultrasounds have demonstrated the capacity to accurately assess and reproducibly quantify kinematics of knee disorders. Cartilage physiology can be evaluated with MRI. Emerging research has even demonstrated novel musculoskeletal applications of positron emission tomography to evaluate anterior cruciate ligament graft metabolic activity following reconstruction. As technology continues to evolve and traditional ways are improved upon, future comparative studies will elucidate the distinct advantages of the various modalities. Although radiology is still primarily an anatomic specialty, there is immense potential for functional imaging to be the standard of care. This review focuses on the most common musculoskeletal applications of functional imaging as well as future utilization.
Rater variability and reliability of constructed response questions in New York state high-stakes tests of English language arts and mathematics: implications for educational assessment policy
Authors: Huang Jinyan , Whipple Patrick B.
Published: November 2023

Using generalizability (G-) theory as a theoretical framework and research methodology, this study examined the impact of the current one-rater holistic scoring practice on the rater variability and reliability of constructed response questions in New York State high-stakes tests of grades four and six English language arts (ELA) and grades four and five mathematics assessments. Following the New York State scoring rubrics, a total of 36 grades four and six ELA constructed response samples and 72 grades four and five mathematics constructed response samples were marked holistically by ten independent raters having current certifications as educators in the State of New York. The results indicated that the current single-rater holistic scoring practice would not be able to yield acceptableG-coefficients for the New York State grades four and six ELA and grades four and five mathematics assessments. Implications for assessment policy making at the local and state levels are discussed.
Polymer small molecule acceptors could be the key to practical polymer solar cells
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: November 2023

Improving efficiency and stability, while maintaining flexibility and stretchability, benefits numerous applications for polymer solar cells.
Backward scattering of laser plasma interactions from hundreds-of-joules broadband laser on thick target
Authors: Wang Peipei , An Honghai , Fang Zhiheng , Xiong Jun , Xie Zhiyong , Wang Chen , He Zhiyu , Jia Guo , Wang Ruirong , Zheng Shu , Xia Lan , Feng Wei , Shi Haitao , Wang Wei , Sun Jinren , Gao Yanqi , Fu Sizu
Published: November 2023

The use of broadband laser technology is a novel approach for inhibiting processes related to laser plasma interactions (LPIs). In this study, several preliminary experiments into broadband-laser-driven LPIs are carried out using a newly established hundreds-of-joules broadband second-harmonic-generation laser facility. Through direct comparison with LPI results for a traditional narrowband laser, the actual LPI-suppression effect of the broadband laser is shown. The broadband laser had a clear suppressive effect on both back-stimulated Raman scattering and back-stimulated Brillouin scattering at laser intensities below 1 × 1015 W cm−2. An abnormal hot-electron phenomenon is also investigated, using targets of different thicknesses.
Formation of a scour funnel upstream of an orifice affected by a bottom-mounted cylinder
Authors: Zeng Yihang , Lu Xinhua
Published: November 2023

A scour funnel before a bottom orifice on a dam is able to help intaking water with low sediment concentration and thus protect the water turbine. Appropriate placement of pier-like structures in front of a bottom orifice may increase the size of a scour funnel. This work experimentally investigates the formation and development of a scour funnel upstream of a bottom orifice affected by a bottom-mounted cylinder. It is found that the cylinder blocks the flow so as to reduce the flow rate by as much as 8.27%. Nevertheless, the sizes of equilibrium scour funnel generally increase due to the use of a cylinder; for instance, the equilibrium scour depth may increase by as much as 36.1%. The enlargement of scour funnel is closely related to the motion of large-scale turbulent vortices caused by the cylinder. We found that the turbulent kinetic energy around the cylinder is significantly increased due to the presence of a cylinder with a maximum relative increase in 192.5%. The placement of a cylinder leads to a drastical increment of sediment erosion rate. For cases with a cylinder, it may take only 1.1% of the time (for the first time) to reach the same level of equilibrium scour depth in a same case without a cylinder. Therefore, by appropriately placing a cylinder before a bottom orifice, it is possible to achieve a larger-sized scour funnel in a very shorter time with smaller abandoned water. A formula is established to calculate the maximum equilibrium scour depth.
Power unit Gumbel type II distribution: Statistical properties, regression analysis, and applications
Authors: Nagy M. , Gemeay Ahmed M. , Rajitha C. S. , Karakaya Kadir , Sağlam Şule , Mansi A. H. , Kilai Mutua
Published: November 2023

Using the power transformation method, we introduce a generalized version of the unit Gumbel type-2 distribution. The new lifetime distribution is called the power unit Gumbel type-2 distribution (PUGT2D). The new distribution’s statistical and reliability properties are given, and some estimation methods are proposed for estimating the model parameters. The usefulness and flexibility of the new distribution are illustrated with real datasets. Results based on log-likelihood, information statistics, and goodness-of-fit test results showed that the PUGT2D better fits the data than the other competing distributions. Moreover, a new regression model based on the new distribution is introduced and demonstrated to exhibit superior applicability through a numerical example.
Preparation and in vitro osteogenic evaluation of high-strength ceramic artificial bone loaded with anti-tuberculosis drug PaMZ
Authors: Li Yu , Fei Le , Zhang Xiaomin , Shi Jiandang
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to prepare a high-strength ceramic artificial bone loaded with the anti-tuberculosis drug PaMZ (delamanid, moxifloxacin, and pyrazinamide) and evaluate its physical characteristics and osteogenic potential. We utilized 3D printing technology to fabricate artificial bones and then obtained a high-strength ceramic artificial bone by high-temperature firing. Then, a triple combination of anti-tuberculosis drugs, including delamanid (Pa), moxifloxacin (M), pyrazinamide (Z), and polylactic acid-co-glycolic acid mixed in a ratio of 3:12:45:140, was incorporated onto the surface of the ceramic artificial bone. Consequently, a high-strength ceramic artificial bone, loaded with anti-tuberculosis drugs, was successfully obtained. The physical characteristics of the drug-loaded artificial bone were assessed using an electronic universal testing machine and scanning electron microscopy. The osteogenic performance of the artificial bone was evaluated through rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (rBMSCs) co-culture experiment, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) cell proliferation assay, alkaline phosphatase staining, and alizarin red staining. The drug-loaded ceramic artificial bone exhibited favorable physical characteristics, void interconnection, a porosity of 30.6% ± 0.7%, and a compressive strength of 17.65 ± 0.46 MPa. The rBMSCs co-culture experiment and CCK-8 cell proliferation experiment demonstrated excellent cell compatibility, while alkaline phosphatase and alizarin red staining indicated good in vitro osteogenic performance. In summary, the high-strength ceramic artificial bone loaded with the anti-tuberculosis drug PaMZ exhibited a favorable morphological structure and compressive strength. In addition, it demonstrated good biocompatibility and osteogenic properties.
Sparsity of higher-order landscape interactions enables learning and prediction for microbiomes
Authors: Arya Shreya , George Ashish B. , O’Dwyer James P.
Published: November 2023

Microbiome engineering offers the potential to leverage microbial communities to improve outcomes in human health, agriculture, and climate. To translate this potential into reality, it is crucial to reliably predict community composition and function. But a brute force approach to cataloging community function is hindered by the combinatorial explosion in the number of ways we can combine microbial species. An alternative is to parameterize microbial community outcomes using simplified, mechanistic models, and then extrapolate these models beyond where we have sampled. But these approaches remain data-hungry, as well as requiring an a priori specification of what kinds of mechanisms are included and which are omitted. Here, we resolve both issues by introducing a mechanism-agnostic approach to predicting microbial community compositions and functions using limited data. The critical step is the identification of a sparse representation of the community landscape. We then leverage this sparsity to predict community compositions and functions, drawing from techniques in compressive sensing. We validate this approach on in silico community data, generated from a theoretical model. By sampling just∼1% of all possible communities, we accurately predict community compositions out of sample. We then demonstrate the real-world application of our approach by applying it to four experimental datasets and showing that we can recover interpretable, accurate predictions on composition and community function from highly limited data.
Energy and mass transport properties in the near-cathode region of atmospheric thermal plasma
Authors: Sun Li , Li Zeng-Yao , Xu Ming
Published: November 2023

As the main region where charged particles are accelerated by the electric field and accumulated near the cathode, the near-cathode region has significant non-local equilibrium characteristics and plays a crucial role in exploring the energy and mass transport properties of the thermal plasma from the arc column region to the hot cathode surface. However, there is a lack of universally adopted models and accepted theories for the study of the near-cathode region due to the complexity of the physical mechanisms involved in the sheath. According to the physical characteristics of the arc discharge, an external circuit is usually used to regulate the total current applied to the electrodes to maintain stable discharge. Therefore, the energy and mass transport properties of atmospheric thermal plasma driven by a current source coupled to an external circuit are investigated in this work to explore the transport mechanism of charged particles in the near-cathode region based on an implicit particle-in-cell Monte Carlo collision method. Firstly, the current-driven model in this work is compared with the present voltage-driven model and fluid model to verify the correctness of this model. Then, the collisions between charged particles and gas atoms inside the sheath are analyzed, and the spatial distributions of particle current density and particle heating rate inside the sheath are also studied. Finally, the variations of typical parameters of thermal particles under different current densities (106–107 A m−2) are analyzed, including maximum particle number density, maximum particle spatially-averaged temperature, sheath thickness, charge density and electric field strength in the cathode.
A laser-ultrasonic based sensor fusion framework for height measurement during the stone crushing process
Authors: Tang Chaoquan , Li Chuncheng , Zhou Gongbo , Shang Xuejian , Zhou Ping , Li Yue , Li Menggang
Published: November 2023

It is a challenging work to monitor the height of the material pile via laser measurement due to the influence of high-concentration dust in a moving crushing line. At present, although the error of using only ultrasonic radar is small, the monitoring range is limited, while using only laser radar to monitor materials is highly affected by dust environments and may fail in high dust environments. To overcome this limitation, a height measurement based on the laser-ultrasonic radar fusion method was proposed to monitor material height in mobile crushing line. Firstly, the proposed method used laser scanning to obtain the three-dimensional point cloud of the material surface through point cloud preprocessing and calculated the material height. Secondly, considering that the concentration of dust has a great impact on the monitoring of the material level height, the experimental data on the change of the material level height with the concentration of dust were obtained, and the monitoring error was fitted to improve the accuracy of the material level height detection. Finally, in order to further reduce the error, the monitoring data of the ultrasonic radar was integrated to reduce the influence of dust on the detection of the material level height. The results showed that the average error was reduced to 22.65 mm when the dust concentration was below 200 mg m−3, and the average error was reduced to 32.14 mm when the dust concentration was higher than 200 mg m−3. The experimental results in different dust concentration environments demonstrated that the proposed method can effectively detect the point cloud shape and material level height of the material in real applications, which effectively improves the accuracy of material height detection by combining the three-dimensional laser points of the laser radar and the penetrability of the ultrasonic radar in high-concentration dust.
Cosmic acceleration and turns in the Swampland
Authors: Freigang Julian , Lüst Dieter , Nian Guo-En , Scalisi Marco
Published: November 2023

We argue that field trajectories, which lead to cosmic acceleration and feature rapid
turns near the boundary of the moduli space, are in the Swampland. We obtain this result by
assuming the validity of the Swampland Distance Conjecture (SDC) in the presence of a positive
scalar potential and by focusing on hyperbolic spaces, as prototype geometries of infinite
distance limits of Calabi-Yau compactifications. We find that, in a quasi-de Sitter space with
Hubble rate H and acceleration parameter ϵ, the turning rate Ω is upper bounded
such as Ω/H < 𝒪(√(ϵ)). Therefore, field trajectories consistent with the
SDC can only have a negligible deviation from geodesics. This has direct implications for the
realization and consistency of multi-field scenarios in string theory. Moreover, it implies a
tension between asymptotic accelerating expansion, consistent with observations, and the de Sitter
conjecture.
A Fermi-LAT Study of Globular Cluster Dynamical Evolution in the Milky Way: Millisecond Pulsars as the Probe
Authors: Feng Li , Cheng Zhongqun , Wang Wei , Li Zhiyuan , Chen Yang
Published: November 2023

Using archival Fermi-LAT data with a time span of ∼12 yr, we study the population of Millisecond Pulsars (MSPs) in Globular Clusters (GlCs) and investigate their dependence on cluster dynamical evolution in the Milky Way. We show that the γ-ray luminosity (L

γ
) and emissivity (i.e., ϵ

γ
= L

γ
/M, with M the cluster mass) are good indicators of the population and abundance of MSPs in GlCs, and they are highly dependent on the dynamical evolution history of the host clusters. Specifically speaking, the dynamically older GlCs with more compact structures are more likely to have larger L

γ
and ϵ

γ
, and these trends can be summarized as strong correlations with cluster stellar encounter rate Γ and the specific encounter rate (Λ = Γ/M), with L

γ
∝ Γ0.70±0.11 and ϵ

γ
∝ Λ0.73±0.13 for dynamically normal GlCs. However, as GlCs evolve into deep core collapse, these trends are found to be reversed, implying that strong encounters may have lead to the disruption of Low-Mass X-ray Binaries and ejection of MSPs from core-collapsed systems. Besides, the GlCs are found to exhibit larger ϵ

γ
with increasing stellar mass function slope (ϵ

γ
∝ 10(0.57±0.1)α
), decreasing tidal radius (

ϵ

γ

∝

R

t

−
1.0
±
0.22

) and distances from the Galactic Center (GC,

ϵ

γ

∝

R

gc

−
1.13
±
0.21

). These correlations indicate that, as GlCs losing kinetic energy and spiral in toward the GC, tidal stripping and mass segregation have a preference in leading to the loss of normal stars from GlCs, while MSPs are more likely to concentrate to cluster center and be deposited into the GC. Moreover, we gauge ϵ

γ
of GlCs is ∼10–1000 times larger than the Galactic bulge, the latter is thought to reside thousands of unresolved MSPs and may be responsible for the GC γ-ray excess, which supports that GlCs are generous contributors to the population of MSPs in the GC.
Degeneration of oil bodies by rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER)-associated protein during seed germination in Cannabis sativa L.
Authors: Kim Eun-Soo , Han Joon-Hee , Olejar Kenneth J , Park Sang-Hyuck
Published: November 2023

Abstract. Oil bodies serve as a vital energy source of embryos during germination and contribute to sustaining the initial growth of seedlings until photosynthesis initiation. Despite high stability in chemical properties, how oil bodies break down and go into the degradation process during germination is still unknown. This study provides a morphological understanding of the mobilization of stored compounds in the seed germination of Cannabis. The achenes of fibrous hemp cultivar (Cannabis sativa cv. ‘Chungsam’) were examined in this study using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Oil bodies in Cannabis seeds appeared spherical and sporadically distributed in the cotyledonary cells. Protein bodies contained electron-dense globoid and heterogeneous protein matrices. During seed germination, rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER) and high electron-dense substances were present adjacent to the oil bodies. The border of the oil bodies became a dense cluster region and appeared as a sinuous outline. Later, irregular hyaline areas were distributed throughout oil bodies, showing the destabilized emulsification of oil bodies. Finally, the oil bodies lost their morphology and fused with each other. The storage proteins were concentrated in the centre of the protein body as a dense homogenous circular mass surrounded by a light heterogeneous area. Some storage proteins are considered emulsifying agents on the surface region of oil bodies, enabling them to remain stable and distinct within and outside cotyledon cells. At the early germination stage, rER appeared and dense substances aggregated adjacent to the oil bodies. Certain proteins were synthesized within the rER and then translocated into the oil bodies by crossing the half membrane of oil bodies. Our data suggest that rER-associated proteins function as enzymes to lyse the emulsifying proteins, thereby weakening the emulsifying agent on the surface of the oil bodies. This process plays a key role in the degeneration of oil bodies and induces coalescence during seed germination.
Specific therapies of pulmonary hypertension and prognosis in COVID-19: 18-months analysis of BNP-PL national database
Authors: Mamzer A , Waligora M , Kurzyna M , Mroczek E , Mularek-Kubzdela T , Pruszczyk P , Skoczylas I , Lewicka E , Karasek D , Kusmierczyk-Droszcz B , Mizia-Stec K , Ptaszynska-Kopczynska K , Jachec W , Kopec G , Kasprzak J D
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had a significant impact on mortality in the group of patients (pts) with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Specific therapies offer the potential to improve COVID-19 survival in this vulnerable population, but data on COVID-19 mortality according to specific PH therapies are scarce.

Aim

To assess mortality in the course of COVID-19 among pts diagnosed with PH, treated under the Polish ministry therapeutic program and registered in the national BNP-PL database, according to the intensity of specific PH therapy used in Poland.

Methods

We analyzed the records of the complete population of Polish pts treated under the National Drug Program of PH (PAH and CTEPH) and registered in the national database of BNP-PL from 01 March 2020 to 31 August 2022. The clinical severity of COVID-19 course and mortality were reviewed. Clinical characteristics of infected and deceased patients were compared in relation to the specific therapy used.

Results

The analysis included 188 pts with SARS-CoV-2 infection (mean age 59 ± 17,7 years; 61% female). 45 patients (24%) required hospitalization. Mortality rate was 18% (34/188, including 15 out-of-hospital deaths) vs. 2,6% for estimated in the general population. Those who died due to COVID-19 were slightly older (mean age 63 ± 18.4 vs. 58 ± 17.5 yrs; p=0,13). There was no significant difference in mortality in subsets receiving monotherapy (13.8%), 2 drugs (25.4%) or 3 drugs(15%)- p=0.18. There was a trend towards higher mortality in pts on double regimen. Pts treated with prostacyclin analogues had significantly higher risk of dying from COVID-19 (30% vs 11.4% in others, p=0.002).

Conclusions

COVID-19 infection in pulmonary hypertension pts was related to high mortality and prostacyclin analogues users are at highest risk. Considering that this analysis suggests that COVID-19 mortality was equalized between less sick patients suitable for monotherapy and those qualified for double/triple regimens. The finding of numerically highest risk in double therapy users might signify needs for earlier escalation to triple regimen.Characteristics of pts with PH and Covid
The role of transient receptor potential canonical 7 (TRPC7) in western diet-induced aortic damage via abnormal lipid production
Authors: Hsu W , Chen C , Tsai M
Published: November 2023

Background

The Western lifestyle, characterized by a diet rich in fat and fructose (HFHF), has been linked to metabolic disorders that accelerate aortic aging and damage, ultimately leading to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Signaling pathways that promote cellular aging are associated with pathological changes. Our previous research has shown that activating TRPC7, a protein responsible for regulating cellular calcium homeostasis, leads to elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, DNA damage, and cellular aging, thereby initiating age-related pathogenesis. Metabolic disorders have also been linked to myocardial aging and damage. Therefore, investigating the impact of TRPC7 on the pathogenesis of metabolic disorder-associated aortic damage is of utmost importance.

Purpose

We aimed to examine the involvement of TRPC7 in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders associated with aortic damage, which ultimately contributes to the development of ASCVD.

Methods

The study involved feeding mice an HFHF diet for 10 weeks, after which their body weight was recorded, and their aortas were harvested for analysis. Aortic thickness, lipid accumulation, and collagen content were measured. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to detect various markers, including DNA damage, senescence, senescence-associated secretory phenotype, and cell death. In addition, abnormal lipid production was screened using a lipidomic approach and bioinformatics tool.

Results

The study revealed that TRPC7 deficiency inhibited HFHF-induced increases in body weight and the ratio of adventitia to tunica media thicknesses, lipid accumulation, and collagen content in the aorta. Interestingly, lacking TRPC7 significantly reduced aortic pathogenesis induced by HFHF while upregulating DNA damage, senescence, SASP, and cell death in the mice fed with HFHF. In contrast, mice fed a regular diet, with or without TRPC7, showed no significant effects on body weight, aortic morphology, lipid droplets, DNA damage, senescence, and cell death in their aortas. Additionally, the study revealed that abnormal lipids, such as PC(18:0/20:4), PC(16:0/20:4), LacCer(d18:1/12:0), and PC(18:0/18:2), which can cause aortic aging and damage, were produced in mice fed with HFHF. However, in mice with deficient TRPC7, these abnormal lipids were not detected in their plasma.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that TRPC7 plays a crucial role in regulating metabolic disorder-associated aortic pathogenesis, leading to the progression of ASCVD. By inhibiting HFHF-induced aortic damage and aging, TRPC7 blockage shows promising effectiveness. Furthermore, the observed abnormal lipids production suggests TRPC7's involvement in lipid metabolism. These findings underscore the significance of investigating TRPC7 as a potential therapeutic target for preventing or treating metabolic disorder-associated aortic damage and related cardiovascular diseases.fig 1fig 2
Ascending aortic length associates to acute aortic dissection
Authors: Korpela T , Salomaa E , Kauhanen P , Selander T , Hedman M , Husso A
Published: November 2023

Background

Acute Stanford type A aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that is challenging to predict and prevent. The risk for aortic dissection is known to increase with ascending aortic (AA) dilatation, which sets indication for preventive aortic replacement. Anyhow, most of the dissections occur before aortic diameter reaches the diameter indications of preventive surgery.

Purpose

To investigate whether, alongside with aortic dilatation, AA elongation affects the increased risk for aortic dissection.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients treated for Stanford type A aortic dissection (n=102), patients with AA dilatation (max. diameter > 40 mm) (n=134) and healthy controls (n=191). AA length and dimensions were measured from aortic computed tomography angiography (CTA) images. The AA length was defined as a distance between the aortic annulus to the origin of the brachiocephalic trunk.

Results

AA length was significantly increased in patients with aortic dissection when compared to patients with AA dilatation and to healthy controls (106.2 ± 15.1 mm vs. 96.8 ± 11.2 mm vs. 82.5 ± 8.1 mm; p<0.001).

After adjusting AA length to patient's height, BSA, sex and maximal diameter, adjusted length of AA was 99.8 mm in the dissection group, 94.4 mm in the AA dilatation group and 86.0 mm in healthy controls. Thus, when comparing adjusted AA length between the groups, dissected aortas were 13.8 mm longer than in healthy controls and 5.4 mm longer than in dilated non-dissected aortas (p<0.001). Dilated non-dissected aortas were 8.4 mm longer than in healthy controls (p<0.001).

In the dissection cohort, 25/102 (24.5%) patients had maximal AA diameter <55 mm and 16/102 (12.7%) patients had maximal AA diameter ≥55 mm alongside with AA length > 110 mm (Table). By combining 110 mm AA length and <55 mm diameter, 58% of the dissection patients would have been identified instead of using only AA diameter ≥55 mm as a cut-off criteria, based on which only 33% patients met the indication for elective surgery.

Conclusions

To conclude, AA length seems to be a strong predictor of risk of type A aortic dissection and thus might be used as an additional tool in identifying patients for preventive surgery.Cut off - limits
Association of ventricular-arterial interaction with left ventricular remodelling after acute myocardial infarction: a 2-year follow-up study
Authors: Ikonomidis I , Tsilivarakis D , Pavlidis G , Katogiannis K , Kostelli G , Kountouri A , Korakas E , Pliouta L , Michalopoulou E , Thymis J , Vythoulkas D , Vrettou A R , Frogoudaki A , Parissis J , Filippatos G
Published: November 2023

Background/Introduction

Adverse left ventricular (LV) remodelling after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with heart failure.

Purpose

We aimed to investigated the association of ventricular-arterial interaction with LV remodelling in patients with STEMI.

Methods

In 109 patients within 48 hours of myocardial infarction post-primary percutaneous coronary intervention and after 2 years, we measured: (1) pulse wave velocity (PWV-Complior), (2) LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and left atrial strain, (3) PWV/GLS ratio as a marker of ventricular-arterial interaction, and (4) LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes. A >15% decrease in LV end-systolic volume at 2-years follow-up was considered as a criterion of reverse LV remodelling.

Results

Compared with baseline, all patients had reduced PWV, PWV/GLS, LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, while GLS and reservoir left atrial strain were increased (p<0.05) after 2 years. Both baseline and percentage change of PWV/GLS ratio were associated with LV end-systolic volume percentage change at 2 years (r=0.43, p=0.012 and r=0.35, p=0.038, respectively). Patients with LV end-systolic volume reduction >15% had lower baseline PWV and PWV/GLS and higher GLS and left atrial strain than patients with LV end-systolic volume reduction <15% (p<0.05). Multivariable analysis revealed that PWV and PWV/GLS were independently associated with LV remodelling. A baseline value of PWV of 8.1m/s and PWV/GLS of -0.52m/s% had a sensitivity of 84% and 82% and a specificity of 80% and 77% respectively for prediction of LV remodelling (area under the curve: 0.751, p=0.001 and 0.779, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Ventricular-arterial interaction is an independent predictor of LV remodelling after 2 years of the ischemic event.