bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population genetic structure of Pomacea canaliculata in China based on the COI and ITS1 genes
Authors: Wei Ran , Chang Ya-Wen , Xie Hong-Fang , Wu Cheng-dong , Yuan Deng-Rong , Gong Wei-Rong , Du Yu-Zhou
Published: May 2024

Comprehending the phylogeography of invasive organisms enhances our insight into their distribution dynamics, which is instrumental for the development of effective prevention and management strategies. In China, Pomacea canaliculata and Pomacea maculata are the two most widespread and damaging species of the non-native Pomacea spp.. Given this species’ rapid spread throughout country, it is urgent to investigate the genetic diversity and structure of its different geographic populations, a task undertaken in the current study using the COI and ITS1 mitochondrial and ribosomal DNA genes, respectively. The result of this study, based on a nationwide systematic survey, a collection of Pomacea spp., and the identification of cryptic species, showed that there is a degree of genetic diversity and differentiation in P. canaliculata, and that all of its variations are mainly due to differences between individuals within different geographical populations. Indeed, this species contains multiple haplotypes, but none of them form a systematic geographical population structure. Furthermore, the COI gene exhibits higher genetic diversity than the ITS1 gene. Our study further clarifies the invasive pathways and dispersal patterns of P. canaliculata in China to provide a theoretical basis.
Vibration assisted electron tunnelling in COVID-19 infection using quantum state diffusion
Authors: Haseeb Muhammad Waqas , Toutounji Mohamad
Published: May 2024

The spread of the COVID-19 virus has become a global health crisis, and finding effective treatments and preventions is a top priority. The field of quantum biology primarily focuses on energy or charge transfer, with a particular emphasis on photosynthesis. However, there is evidence to suggest that cellular receptors such as olfactory or neural receptors may also use vibration-assisted electron tunnelling to enhance their functions. Quantum tunnelling has also been observed in enzyme activity, which is relevant to the invasion of host cells by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Additionally, COVID-19 appears to disrupt receptors such as olfactory receptors. These findings suggest that quantum effects could provide new insights into the mechanisms of biological systems and disease, including potential treatments for COVID-19. We have applied the open quantum system approach using Quantum State Diffusion to solve the non-linear stochastic Schrödinger equation (SSE) for COVID-19 virus infection. Our model includes the mechanism when the spike protein of the virus binds with an ACE2 receptor is considered as dimer. These two entities form a system and then coupled with the cell membrane, which is modelled as a set of harmonic oscillators (bath). By simulating the SSE, we find that there is vibration-assisted electron tunnelling happening in certain biological parameters and coupling regimes. Furthermore, our model contributes to the ongoing research to understand the fundamental nature of virus dynamics. It proposes that vibration-assisted electron tunneling could be a molecular phenomenon that augments the lock-and-key process for olfaction. This insight may enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing virus-receptor interactions and could potentially lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Variability of relationship between inner-retinal structural changes and visual dysfunction in optic neuropathy
Authors: Joo Hye Jun , Moon Yeji , Jung Jae Ho
Published: May 2024

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) displays the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) or macular ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness below 1st percentile in red color. This finding generally indicates severe inner-retinal structural changes and suggests poor visual function. Nevertheless, some individuals show preserved visual function despite these circumstances. This study aimed to identify the correlation between best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and inner-retinal thickness based on OCT parameters in various optic neuropathy patients with extremely low RNFL/GCIPL thickness, and determine the limitation of OCT for predicting visual function in these patients. 131 patients were included in the study. The mean BCVA in logMAR was 0.55 ± 0.70 with a broad range from − 0.18 to 3.00. Among the OCT parameters, temporal GCIPL (r = − 0.412) and average GCIPL (r = − 0.366) exhibited the higher correlations with BCVA. Etiological comparisons of optic neuropathies revealed significantly lower BCVA in LHON (all p < 0.05). Idiopathic optic neuritis (ON) and MOGAD exhibited better and narrower BCVA distributions compared to the other optic neuropathies. OCT had limited utility in reflecting BCVA, notwithstanding significant inner-retinal thinning after optic nerve injuries. Caution is needed in interpreting OCT findings, especially as they relate to the etiology of optic neuropathy.
A novel indicator in epidemic monitoring through a case study of Ebola in West Africa (2014–2016)
Authors: Kwak Minkyu , Sun Xiuxiu , Wi Yunju , Nah Kyeongah , Kim Yongkuk , Jin Hongsung
Published: May 2024

The E/S (exposed/susceptible) ratio is analyzed in the SEIR model. The ratio plays a key role in understanding epidemic dynamics during the 2014–2016 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone and Guinea. The maximum value of the ratio occurs immediately before or after the time-dependent reproduction number (Rt) equals 1, depending on the initial susceptible population (S(0)). It is demonstrated that transmission rate curves corresponding to various incubation periods intersect at a single point referred to as the Cross Point (CP). At this point, the E/S ratio reaches an extremum, signifying a critical shift in transmission dynamics and aligning with the time when Rt approaches 1. By plotting transmission rate curves, β(t), for any two arbitrary incubation periods and tracking their intersections, we can trace CP over time. CP serves as an indicator of epidemic status, especially when Rt is close to 1. It provides a practical means of monitoring epidemics without prior knowledge of the incubation period. Through a case study, we estimate the transmission rate and reproduction number, identifying CP and Rt = 1 while examining the E/S ratio across various values of S(0).
Microfiber emission from a municipal wastewater treatment plant in Hungary
Authors: Tserendorj Davaakhuu , Illés Ádám , Károly Ágnes , Stadler-Szalai Rita , Sandil Sirat , Mireisz Tamás , Dobosy Péter , Pomázi Flóra , Baranya Sándor , Adányi Mónika , Záray Gyula
Published: May 2024

Since the ingestion of both natural and anthropogenic microfibers produces a deleterious effect on aquatic organisms, it is crucial to explore the emission of these pollutants by WWTPs into the receiving water bodies, such as rivers. Cellulose- and petroleum-based microfibers, as well as microplastic particles, were collected from the effluent of a municipal WWTP operating with activated sludge technology in Budapest, Hungary. During two sampling campaigns organized in February and April of 2023 on different working days and at different times of the day, 123–145 L of effluent was sieved and filtered. The organic matter was removed by hydrogen-peroxide treatment. All fibers and particles larger than 10 µm were counted, and using a fluorescence microscope, the fibers were geometrically characterized in terms of length and diameter. Each fiber was individually identified by transflection-FT-IR method. The fiber concentration varied in the range of 1.88–2.84 and 4.25–6.79 items/L during the 7th and the 16th week of 2023, respectively. In February and April, the proportion of microfibers in the solid particles was 78.3 and 94.7%, respectively. In the effluent the cellulose-based microfibers were dominant (53–91%), while among the petroleum-based microfibers, polyester occurred most often. The median length of cellulose-based fibers was considerably higher in April than in February (650 vs. 1250 µm), and simultaneously the median diameter also increased from 21 to 29 µm. This behaviour was also seen, albeit to a lesser extent, in connection to microfibers derived from petroleum. The treated wastewater’s daily microfiber transport to the Danube River varied between 0.44 − 0.69 and 0.94–1.53 billion in February and April 2023, respectively.
Multiscale off-fault brecciation records coseismic energy budget of principal fault zone
Authors: Agroli Geri , Okamoto Atsushi , Uno Masaoki , Tsuchiya Noriyoshi
Published: May 2024

Breccia and pulverized rock are typical textures in off-fault damage adjacent to a main seismogenic zone. Previously, by estimating the energy required to advance the rupture in this zone using particle size distribution at sub-millimeter/micrometer scales, we could constrain the energy budget during coseismic events. However, whether microscopic estimation is sufficient to capture surface energy fragmentation during an earthquake and the effect of measurement scale variation on calculation of co-seismic energy partitioning remained unclear. Here, we investigated the mechanism of coseismic off-fault damage based on field and microstructural observations of a well-exposed breccia body in Ichinokawa, Japan. We used in situ clast measurements coupled with thin-section analysis of breccia clasts to estimate the energy budget of the damage zone adjacent to the principal slip zone of the Median Tectonic Line (MTL). The total surface energy density and corresponding surface energy per unit fault for a width of ~ 500 m of the dynamical damage zone were estimated. The moment magnitude estimated based on surface energy was 5.8–8.3 Mw. In Ichinokawa, off-fault fragmentation is initiated by coseismic activity and is followed by fluid activity. Under dynamic fragmentation conditions, the scale is important to calculate the surface energy.
Hemodynamic parameters and diabetes mellitus in community-dwelling middle-aged adults and elders: a community-based study
Authors: Wu Tzu-Wei , Wu Yih-Jer , Chou Chao-Liang , Cheng Chun-Fang , Lu Shu-Xin , Wang Li-Yu
Published: May 2024

Hemodynamic parameters have been correlated with stroke, hypertension, and arterial stenosis. While only a few small studies have examined the link between hemodynamics and diabetes mellitus (DM). This case-control study enrolled 417 DM patients and 3475 non-DM controls from a community-based cohort. Peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), blood flow velocity (MFV), pulsatility index (PI), and the resistance index (RI) of the common carotid arteries were measured by color Doppler ultrasonography. Generalized linear regression analyses showed that as compared to the non-DM controls, the age-sex-adjusted means of PSV, EDV, and MFV were − 3.28 cm/sec, − 1.94 cm/sec, and − 2.38 cm/sec, respectively, lower and the age-sex-adjusted means of RI and PI were 0.013 and 0.0061, respectively, higher for the DM cases (all p-values < 0.0005). As compared to the lowest quartiles, the multivariable-adjusted ORs of DM for the highest quartiles of PSV, EDV, MFV, RI, and PI were 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41–0.83), 0.45 (95% CI 0.31–0.66), 0.53 (95% CI 0.37–0.77), 1.61 (95% CI 1.15–2.25), and 1.58 (95% CI 1.12–2.23), respectively. More importantly, the additions of EDV significantly improved the predictabilities of the regression models on DM. As compared to the model contained conventional CVD risk factors alone, the area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) increased by 1.00% (95% CI 0.29–1.73%; p = 0.0059) and 0.80% (95% CI 0.15–1.46%; p = 0.017) for models that added EDV in continuous and quartile scales, respectively. Additionally, the additions of PSV and MFV also significantly improved the predictabilities of the regression models (all 0.01 < p-value < 0.05). This study reveals a significant correlation between DM and altered hemodynamic parameters. Understanding this relationship could help identify individuals at higher risk of DM and facilitate targeted preventive strategies to reduce cardiovascular complications in DM patients.
Identification of a functional missense variant in the matrix metallopeptidase 10 (MMP10) gene in two families with premature myocardial infarction
Authors: Verovenko Viktor , Tennstedt Stephanie , Kleinecke Mariana , Kessler Thorsten , Schunkert Heribert , Erdmann Jeanette , Ensminger Stephan , Aherrahrou Zouhair
Published: May 2024

A positive family history is a major independent risk factor for atherosclerosis, and genetic variation is an important aspect of cardiovascular disease research. We identified a heterozygous missense variant p.L245P in theMMP10gene in two families with premature myocardial infarction using whole-exome sequencing. The aim of this study was to investigate the consequences of this variant using in-silico and functional in-vitro assays. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to analyze protein interactions, calculate free binding energy, and measure the volume of the substrate-binding cleft of MMP10-TIMP1 models. The p.L245P variant showed an altered protein surface, different intra- and intermolecular interactions of MMP10-TIMP1, a lower total free binding energy between MMP10-TIMP1, and a volume-minimized substrate-binding cleft of MMP10 compared to the wild-type. For the functional assays, human THP-1 cells were transfected with plasmids containingMMP10cDNA carrying the p.L245P and wild-type variant and differentiated into macrophages. Macrophage adhesion and migration assays were then conducted, and pro-inflammatory chemokine levels were evaluated. The p.L245P variant led to macrophages that were more adherent, less migratory, and secreted higher levels of the pro-inflammatory chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL8 than wild-type macrophages. Thus, the p.L245P variant inMMP10may influence the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in families with premature myocardial infarction by altering protein - protein interactions, macrophage adhesion and migration, and expression of pro-inflammatory chemokines, which may increase plaque rupture. These results could contribute to the development of selective MMP10 inhibitors and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis in families with a history of premature myocardial infarction.
The impact of peer effect of industrial robot application on enterprise carbon emission reduction
Authors: Guo Jinhua , Chang Shuaiwen , Guo Mengnan
Published: May 2024

The application of intelligent technology, such as industrial robots, is related to the environmental governance effectiveness of enterprises and the realization of the goal of “carbon peak and carbon neutrality”. Due to their similar external environments, driven by economic rationality, peer enterprises will mimic the robotics applications of other enterprises, which in turn will affect the enterprises' carbon emissions. However, little literature has explored the impact of industrial robot application on enterprise carbon emissions from the perspective of peer effect. Based on the data of Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share manufacturing listed enterprises in China from 2011 to 2021, this paper explores the impact of industrial robot application on carbon emission reduction of manufacturing enterprises from the perspective of peer effect. It is found that the industry peer effect and regional peer effect brought by the application of industrial robots are conducive to promoting the carbon emission reduction of enterprises. Among them, the industry peer effect of industrial robot applications promotes carbon emission reduction by enhancing the green innovation ability of enterprises, while the regional peer effect promotes carbon emission reduction by improving the service level of enterprises. It is further found that the degree of industry competition and the level of environmental regulation have inverted U-shaped moderating effects on the industrial robot application industry peer effect, regional peer effect, and enterprises' carbon emission reduction, respectively. The results enrich the research on the impact of industrial robot application on carbon emission reduction of manufacturing enterprises and provide policy implications for improving the environmental performance of enterprises.
Key node identification for a network topology using hierarchical comprehensive importance coefficients
Authors: Qiu Fanshuo , Yu Chengpu , Feng Yunji , Li Yao
Published: May 2024

Key nodes are similar to important hubs in a network structure, which can directly determine the robustness and stability of the network. By effectively identifying and protecting these critical nodes, the robustness of the network can be improved, making it more resistant to external interference and attacks. There are various topology analysis methods for a given network, but key node identification methods often focus on either local attributes or global attributes. Designing an algorithm that combines both attributes can improve the accuracy of key node identification. In this paper, the constraint coefficient of a weakly connected network is calculated based on the Salton indicator, and a hierarchical tenacity global coefficient is obtained by an improved K-Shell decomposition method. Then, a hierarchical comprehensive key node identification algorithm is proposed which can comprehensively indicate the local and global attributes of the network nodes. Experimental results on real network datasets show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the other classic algorithms in terms of connectivity, average remaining edges, sensitivity and monotonicity.
Exclusion-zone water inside and outside of plant xylem vessels
Authors: Wang Anqi , Pollack Gerald H.
Published: May 2024

The fourth phase of water has garnered increased attention within the scientific community due to its distinct properties that differentiate it from regular water. This unique state seems to arise potentially from a liquid crystalline structure, which has been observed near various hydrophilic surfaces to possess the capability of excluding microspheres. Consequently, it has been labeled as exclusion zone (EZ) water. When in contact with hydrophilic surfaces, water could exhibit the ability to form organized layers of EZ water. In this study, we investigated the quick buildup of EZ water exposed to xylem vessels of four vegetable plants: cabbage, celery, asparagus, and pumpkin. Among them, pumpkin vessels showed larger EZs, up to 240 ± 56 μm in width. The width of EZ water found near the xylem vessels of the other plants ranged from 133 ± 22 to 142 ± 20 μm. EZ water generally excludes a wide range of particles, including polystyrene microspheres with various surface modifications, as well as silica microspheres. This implies that the formation of EZ water is not an artificial result of using specific microsphere types but rather demonstrates EZ’s ability to exclude particles regardless of their composition. Inside single xylem vessels of the pumpkin, we could observe the dynamics of EZ buildup, growing from the inside edge of the vessel toward the center. The relationship between vessel diameter, vessel length, and salt concentration on EZ generation inside the xylem vessel was also explored. The results showed that EZ water can build up both inside and outside the xylem vessels. Our findings suggest that EZ generation inside xylem vessels is associated with water flow, likely driven by a proton gradient. Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of EZ water in the physiology of living plants, particularly considering the limitations of the current experiments conducted on cut-out xylem vessel samples.
Effects of cassava wax bath as a new therapeutic approach on patients with plantar fasciitis: a double-blind, randomised clinical trial
Authors: Buttagat Vitsarut , Punyanitya Sittiporn , Charoensup Rawiwan , Kaewsanmung Supapon , Areeudomwong Pattanasin , Kluayhomthong Sujittra
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a new therapeutic approach (cassava wax bath: CWB) compared with usual care (paraffin wax bath: PWB) in patients with plantar fasciitis (PF). Forty patients with PF were recruited into the study (CWB group, n = 20, PWB group, n = 20). Patients in the CWB group received cassava wax bath and patients in the PWB group received usual care (PWB). The primary outcome was pain intensity (PI). The secondary outcomes were the pressure pain threshold (PPT), pain frequency (PFr), foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM), and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ADROM). All outcomes were assessed before and after the five-week intervention, one month, and three months after the intervention period. After the intervention, statistically significant improvement was found in all outcomes after the intervention period and during the one month and three months follow-up study in both groups (P < 0.05). For all outcomes, no between-group differences were seen at any post-assessment time-point, except for PFr (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the findings of this study indicate that CWB was significantly superior to PWB in reducing PFr. For the other outcomes, CWB and PWB were both equally effective in reducing PI and increasing PPT, FAAM, and ADROM in patients with PF. Therefore, CWB might be considered as a novel useful therapeutic option for PF patients.

Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) (Identification number: TCTR20220128002), First posted date: 28/01/2022.
Proximal femur fracture detection on plain radiography via feature pyramid networks
Authors: Yıldız Potter İlkay , Yeritsyan Diana , Mahar Sarah , Kheir Nadim , Vaziri Aidin , Putman Melissa , Rodriguez Edward K. , Wu Jim , Nazarian Ara , Vaziri Ashkan
Published: May 2024

Hip fractures exceed 250,000 cases annually in the United States, with the worldwide incidence projected to increase by 240–310% by 2050. Hip fractures are predominantly diagnosed by radiologist review of radiographs. In this study, we developed a deep learning model by extending the VarifocalNet Feature Pyramid Network (FPN) for detection and localization of proximal femur fractures from plain radiography with clinically relevant metrics. We used a dataset of 823 hip radiographs of 150 subjects with proximal femur fractures and 362 controls to develop and evaluate the deep learning model. Our model attained 0.94 specificity and 0.95 sensitivity in fracture detection over the diverse imaging dataset. We compared the performance of our model against five benchmark FPN models, demonstrating 6–14% sensitivity and 1–9% accuracy improvement. In addition, we demonstrated that our model outperforms a state-of-the-art transformer model based on DINO network by 17% sensitivity and 5% accuracy, while taking half the time on average to process a radiograph. The developed model can aid radiologists and support on-premise integration with hospital cloud services to enable automatic, opportunistic screening for hip fractures.
Longitudinal changes in the volume of residual lung lobes after lobectomy for lung cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tu De-Hao , Yi Chong , Liu Qianyun , Huang Lingmei , Yang Guang , Qu Rirong
Published: May 2024

It is unclear how the residual lobe volume changes over time after lobectomy. This study aims to clarify the temporal patterns of volume changes in each remaining lung lobe post-lobectomy. A retrospective review was conducted on patients who underwent lobectomy for lung cancer at Yueyang Central Hospital from January to December 2021. Lung CT images were reconstructed in three dimensions to calculate the volumes of each lung lobe preoperatively and at 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. A total of 182 patients were included. Postoperatively, the median total lung volume change rates relative to preoperative values were -20.1%, -9.3%, and -5.9% at 1, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Except for the right middle lobe in patients who underwent right upper lobectomy, the volumes of individual lung lobes exceeded preoperative values. The volume growth of the lung on the side of the resection was significantly more than that of the lung on the opposite side. For left lobectomy patients, the right lower lobe’s volume change rate exceeded that of the right upper and middle lobes. Among right lobectomy patients, the left lower lobe and the relatively inferior lobe of right lung had higher volume change rates than the superior one. Right middle lobe change rate was more in patients with right lower lobectomy than right upper lobectomy. Six months postoperatively, FEV1% and right middle lobectomy were positively correlated with the overall volume change rate. One year postoperatively, only age was negatively correlated with the overall volume change rate. 75 patients had pulmonary function tests. Postoperative FEV1 change linearly correlated with 1-year lung volume change rate, but not with theoretical total lung volume change rate or segmental method calculated FEV1 change. Time-dependent compensatory volume changes occur in remaining lung lobe post-lobectomy, with stronger compensation observed in the relatively inferior lobe compared to the superior one(s). Preoperative lung function and age may affect compensation level.
Enhanced contact performance of high-brightness micro-LEDs via ITO/Al anode stack and annealing process
Authors: Meng Zeyang , Lu Chaoyu , Wang Guanghua , Gao Sibo , Deng Feng , Zhang Jie , Gao Shuxiong , Yang Wenyun
Published: May 2024

Micro-light-emitting diodes (Micro-LEDs) are a new type of display device based on the third-generation semiconductor gallium nitride (GaN) material which stands out for its high luminous efficiency, elevated brightness, short response times, and high reliability. The contact between anode layers and P-GaN is one of the keys to improving the performance of the devices. This study investigates the impact of electrode structure design and optimized annealing conditions on the anode contact performance of devices. The Micro-LED device with the size of 9.1 μm whose electrode structure is ITO/Ti/Al/Ni/Cr/Pt/Au (100/50/350/100/500/500/5000 Å) exhibits a significant improvement in contact performance after annealing under the Ar gas atmosphere at 500 °C for 5 min. The optimized device exhibited a current of 10.9 mA and a brightness of 298,628 cd/m2 under 5 V. The EQE peak value of Device A is 10.06% at 400 mA.
Exploring the mechanism of diabetic cardiomyopathy treated with Qigui Qiangxin mixture based on UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Han Quancheng , Li Yan , Yu Yiding , Yuan Huajing , Wang Ziqi , Guo Yonghong , Shi Jingle , Xue Yitao , Liu Xiujuan
Published: May 2024

Despite its effectiveness in treating diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), Qigui Qiangxin Mixture (QGQXM) remains unclear in terms of its active ingredients and specific mechanism of action. The purpose of this study was to explore the active ingredients and mechanism of action of QGQXM in the treatment of DCM through the comprehensive strategy of serum pharmacology, network pharmacology and combined with experimental validation. The active ingredients of QGQXM were analyzed using Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS). Network pharmacology was utilized to elucidate the mechanism of action of QGQXM for the treatment of DCM. Finally, in vivo validation was performed by intraperitoneal injection of STZ combined with high-fat feeding-induced DCM rat model. A total of 25 active compounds were identified in the drug-containing serum of rats, corresponding to 121 DCM-associated targets. GAPDH, TNF, AKT1, PPARG, EGFR, CASP3, and HIF1 were considered as the core therapeutic targets. Enrichment analysis showed that QGQXM mainly treats DCM by regulating PI3K-AKT, MAPK, mTOR, Insulin, Insulin resistance, and Apoptosis signaling pathways. Animal experiments showed that QGQXM improved cardiac function, attenuated the degree of cardiomyocyte injury and fibrosis, and inhibited apoptosis in DCM rats. Meanwhile, QGQXM also activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, up-regulated Bcl-2, and down-regulated Caspase9, which may be an intrinsic mechanism for its anti-apoptotic effect. This study preliminarily elucidated the mechanism of QGQXM in the treatment of DCM and provided candidate compounds for the development of new drugs for DCM.
A machine learning-based model analysis for serum markers of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Zhang Congjie , Shu Zhenyu , Chen Shanshan , Peng Jiaxuan , Zhao Yueyue , Dai Xuan , Li Jie , Zou Xuehan , Hu Jianhua , Huang Haijun
Published: May 2024

Early assessment and accurate staging of liver fibrosis may be of great help for clinical diagnosis and treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). We aimed to identify serum markers and construct a machine learning (ML) model to reliably predict the stage of fibrosis in CHB patients. The clinical data of 618 CHB patients between February 2017 and September 2021 from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were retrospectively analyzed, and these data as a training cohort to build the model. Six ML models were constructed based on logistic regression, support vector machine, Bayes, K-nearest neighbor, decision tree (DT) and random forest by using the maximum relevance minimum redundancy (mRMR) and gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) dimensionality reduction selected features on the training cohort. Then, the resampling method was used to select the optimal ML model. In addition, a total of 571 patients from another hospital were used as an external validation cohort to verify the performance of the model. The DT model constructed based on five serological biomarkers included HBV-DNA, platelet, thrombin time, international normalized ratio and albumin, with the area under curve (AUC) values of the DT model for assessment of liver fibrosis stages (F0-1, F2, F3 and F4) in the training cohort were 0.898, 0.891, 0.907 and 0.944, respectively. The AUC values of the DT model for assessment of liver fibrosis stages (F0-1, F2, F3 and F4) in the external validation cohort were 0.906, 0.876, 0.931 and 0.933, respectively. The simulated risk classification based on the cutoff value showed that the classification performance of the DT model in distinguishing hepatic fibrosis stages can be accurately matched with pathological diagnosis results. ML model of five serum markers allows for accurate diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis stages, and beneficial for the clinical monitoring and treatment of CHB patients.
Neural correlates of obesity across the lifespan
Authors: Morys Filip , Tremblay Christina , Rahayel Shady , Hansen Justine Y. , Dai Alyssa , Misic Bratislav , Dagher Alain
Published: May 2024

Associations between brain and obesity are bidirectional: changes in brain structure and function underpin over-eating, while chronic adiposity leads to brain atrophy. Investigating brain-obesity interactions across the lifespan can help better understand these relationships. This study explores the interaction between obesity and cortical morphometry in children, young adults, adults, and older adults. We also investigate the genetic, neurochemical, and cognitive correlates of the brain-obesity associations. Our findings reveal a pattern of lower cortical thickness in fronto-temporal brain regions associated with obesity across all age cohorts and varying age-dependent patterns in the remaining brain regions. In adults and older adults, obesity correlates with neurochemical changes and expression of inflammatory and mitochondrial genes. In children and older adults, adiposity is associated with modifications in brain regions involved in emotional and attentional processes. Thus, obesity might originate from cognitive changes during early adolescence, leading to neurodegeneration in later life through mitochondrial and inflammatory mechanisms.
Molecular entanglement can strongly increase basicity
Authors: Capocasa Giorgio , Frateloreto Federico , Valentini Matteo , Di Stefano Stefano
Published: May 2024

Brønsted basicity is a fundamental chemical property featured by several kinds of inorganic and organic compounds. In this Review, we treat a particularly high basicity resulting from the mechanical entanglement involving two or more molecular subunits in catenanes and rotaxanes. Such entanglement allows a number of basic sites to be in close proximity with each other, highly increasing the proton affinity in comparison with the corresponding, non-entangled counterparts up to obtain superbases, properly defined asmechanically interlocked superbases. In the following pages, the development of this kind of superbases will be described with a historical perusal, starting from the initial, serendipitous findings up to the most recent reports where the strong basic property of entangled molecular units is the object of a rational design.
Switches in food and beverage product purchases can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Australia
Authors: Gaines Allison , Shahid Maria , Coyle Daisy , Barrett Eden , Hadjikakou Michalis , Wu Jason H. Y. , Taylor Fraser , Pettigrew Simone , Neal Bruce , Seferidi Paraskevi
Published: May 2024

Switching between similar food and beverage products may reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). Here, using consumer data linked to 23,550 product-specific GHGe values, we estimated annual GHGe attributable to product purchases consumed at home in Australia and calculated reductions from specific switches. Potential changes to mean Health Star Rating, mean energy density and the proportion of ultraprocessed foods purchased were assessed. Approximately 31 million tonnes of GHGe were attributable to products consumed at home in 2019, the three highest contributors of GHGe being ‘meat and meat products’ (49%), ‘dairy’ (17%) and ‘non-alcoholic beverages’ (16%). Switching higher-emission products for ‘very similar’ lower-emission products could reduce total emissions by 26%. Switches to ‘less similar’ lower-emission products could lead to a 71% reduction. Switches had little impact on the average Health Star Rating, energy density of purchases and proportion of ultraprocessed foods purchased. Directing manufacturing and marketing towards lower-environmental-impact products and signposting such options to consumers are key.
Circular food system approaches can support current European protein intake levels while reducing land use and greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Simon Wolfram J. , Hijbeek Renske , Frehner Anita , Cardinaals Renee , Talsma Elise F. , van Zanten Hannah H. E.
Published: May 2024

Protein transition and circular food system transition are two proposed strategies for supporting food system sustainability. Here we model animal-sourced protein to plant-sourced protein ratios within a European circular food system, finding that maintaining the current animal–plant protein share while redesigning the system with circular principles resulted in the largest relative reduction of 44% in land use and 70% in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared with the current food system. Shifting from a 60:40 to a 40:60 ratio of animal-sourced proteins to plant-sourced proteins yielded a 60% reduction in land use and an 81% GHG emission reduction, while supporting nutritionally adequate diets. Differences between current and recommended total protein intake did not substantially impact minimal land use and GHG emissions. Micronutrient inadequacies occurred with less than 18 g animal protein per capita per day. Redesigning the food system varied depending on whether land use or GHG emissions were reduced—highlighting the need for a food system approach when designing policies to enhance human and planetary health.
Emergent constraint on oxygenation of the upper South Eastern Pacific oxygen minimum zone in the twenty-first century
Authors: Almendra Ivan , Dewitte Boris , Garçon Véronique , Muñoz Praxedes , Parada Carolina , Montes Ivonne , Duteil Olaf , Paulmier Aurélien , Pizarro Oscar , Ramos Marcel , Koeve Wolfgang , Oschlies Andreas
Published: May 2024

As a consequence of on-going global warming, the ocean is losing oxygen, which has implications not only in terms of marine resources management and food supply but also in terms of the potentially important feedback on the global carbon cycle and climate. Of particular scrutiny are the extended zones of already low levels of oxygen called the oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) embedded in the subsurface waters of the productive Eastern Boundary Upwelling Systems (EBUS). These OMZs are currently diversely simulated by state-of-the-art Earth System Models (ESM) hampering a reliable projection of ocean deoxygenation on marine ecosystem services in these regions. Here we focus on the most emblematic EBUS OMZs of the planet, that of the South Eastern Pacific (SEP), which is under the direct influence of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the main climate mode on interannual timescales at global scale. We show that, despite the low consensus among ESM long-term projections of oxygen levels, the sensitivity of the depth of the upper margin (oxycline) of the SEP OMZ to El Niño events in an ensemble of ESMs can be used as a predictor of its long-term trend, which establishes an emergent constraint for the SEP OMZ. Because the oxycline along the coast of Peru and Chile deepens during El Niño events, the upper bound of the SEP OMZ is thus likely to deepen in the future climate, therefore oxygenating the SEP OMZ. This has implications not only for understanding the nitrogen and carbon cycles at global scale but also for designing adaptation strategies for regional upper-ocean ecosystem services.
Neurons dispose of hyperactive kinesin into glial cells for clearance
Authors: Xie Chao , Chen Guanghan , Li Ming , Huang Peng , Chen Zhe , Lei Kexin , Li Dong , Wang Yuhe , Cleetus Augustine , Mohamed Mohamed AA , Sonar Punam , Feng Wei , Ökten Zeynep , Ou Guangshuo
Published: May 2024

Microtubule-based kinesin motor proteins are crucial for intracellular transport, but their hyperactivation can be detrimental for cellular functions. This study investigated the impact of a constitutively active ciliary kinesin mutant, OSM-3CA, on sensory cilia in C. elegans. Surprisingly, we found that OSM-3CA was absent from cilia but underwent disposal through membrane abscission at the tips of aberrant neurites. Neighboring glial cells engulf and eliminate the released OSM-3CA, a process that depends on the engulfment receptor CED-1. Through genetic suppressor screens, we identified intragenic mutations in the OSM-3CA motor domain and mutations inhibiting the ciliary kinase DYF-5, both of which restored normal cilia in OSM-3CA-expressing animals. We showed that conformational changes in OSM-3CA prevent its entry into cilia, and OSM-3CA disposal requires its hyperactivity. Finally, we provide evidence that neurons also dispose of hyperactive kinesin-1 resulting from a clinic variant associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, suggesting a widespread mechanism for regulating hyperactive kinesins.
A novel dual-release scaffold for fluorescent labels improves cyclic immunofluorescence
Authors: Reiber Thorge , Dose Christian , Yushchenko Dmytro A.
Published: May 2024

Cyclic immunofluorescence is a powerful method to generate high-content imaging datasets for investigating cell biology and developing therapies. A dual-release mechanism facilitates fast and efficient cleavage of fluorophores from target antigens.
Electrifying oxidation of ethylene and propylene
Authors: Li Xinwei , Yang Caoyu , Tang Zhiyong
Published: May 2024

This highlight discusses the advantages of various oxidation methods for improved performance of the electrochemical oxidation of ethylene and propylene, and provides an overview of current challenges and problems requiring further efforts.
Influence of the substituent in the benzene ring on the structure and properties of two isostructural crystals
Authors: Li Zhonghua , Jia Shengzhe , Wu Songgu , Gong Junbo
Published: May 2024

This work provides a successful case of constructing single-component isostructural crystals with similar luminescence behavior using side-chain group substitution.
Aqueous syntheses of anthracene-based mixed-ligand coordination polymers and their structural and optical properties
Authors: Marttinen Antti , Lahtinen Manu
Published: May 2024

A series of mixed-ligand CPs and MOFs were synthesized from aqueous solutions. Fast aqueous syntheses along with structural, stability and optical studies of the compounds indicate their potential in light harvesting and photocatalytic applications.
Metallic CoSb and Janus Co2AsSb monolayers as promising anode materials for metal-ion batteries
Authors: Ahmed Dildar , Muhammad Nisar , Ding Z. J.
Published: May 2024

We proposed Janus Co2AsSb by modifying CoSb, resulting in elevated thermal stability and improved Li/Na storage capabilities. This modification is promising for advanced energy solutions, especially in 2D energy storage materials.
Coupled-cluster treatment of complex open-shell systems: the case of single-molecule magnets
Authors: Alessio Maristella , Paran Garrette Pauley , Utku Cansu , Grüneis Andreas , Jagau Thomas-C.
Published: May 2024

Coupled-cluster methods effectively describe spin states and magnetic behavior of large and complex molecular magnets.
Fatty acid composition in erythrocytes and coronary artery disease risk: a case–control study in China
Authors: Wang Yongjin , Wu Gangcheng , Xiao Feng , Yin Hongming , Yu Le , Chen Yujia , Shehzad Qayyum , Xu Lirong , Zhang Hui , Jin Qingzhe , Wang Xingguo
Published: May 2024

A glance to all the associations which were found between erythrocyte levels of fatty acid groups with the risk of CAD.
Milk fat globule membrane and its polar lipids: reviewing preclinical and clinical trials on cognition
Authors: Luque-Uría Álvaro , Calvo María V. , Visioli Francesco , Fontecha Javier
Published: May 2024

Scheme of the potential use of MFGM as a dietary supplement on both infant and adult health.
Parathyroid-on-a-chip simulating parathyroid hormone secretion in response to calcium concentration
Authors: Lee Sunghan , Jung Hyo-Il , Lee Jaehun , Kim Youngwon , Chung Jaewoo , Kim Han Su , Lim Jiseok , Nam Ki Chang , Lim Yun-Sung , Choi Han Seok , Kwak Bong Seop
Published: May 2024

Tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells were extracted and used to fabricate parathyroid organoids. By modeling both the parathyroid organoid and vasculature, this system can simulate parathyroid hormone secretion based on calcium concentration.
Supramolecular “all-in-one” nanodrug based on perylene diimide for dual-mode imaging guided PTT-chemotherapy
Authors: Wu Jiazhen , Wang Nan , Liu Guozheng , Luan Mingming , Zhou Mingyang , Wu Yanjuan
Published: May 2024

The combination of photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemotherapy has been extensively investigated as a promising anticancer strategy, which can maximize therapeutic effects, reverse multidrug resistance, and reduce side effects.
Enhancing the effect of metal–nitrogen–carbon nanotubes with cobalt phthalocyanine on the electrochemical reduction of CO2
Authors: Li Ming , Zhu Hong-Lin , Wang Xiao-Fei , Li Zhong-Yi , Ma Jing-Jing , Guo Ya-Jun , Zheng Yue-Qing
Published: May 2024

A series of CoPc/M–N–C catalysts with CoPc highly loaded on M–N–C shown a significantly enhanced catalytic performance toward CO2RR. The highly activity and selectivity is attributed to the synergistic effect between CoPc and M–N–C.
Cu–Pd bimetal-decorated siloxene nanosheets for semi-hydrogenation of acetylene
Authors: Pei Xinyi , Zhang Dake , Tang Rui , Wang Shenghua , Zhang Chengcheng , Yuan Wentao , Sun Wei
Published: May 2024

High-surface-area siloxene enables alloying between Pd and Cu via room-temperature reduction with Si–H bonds. This catalyst preparation strategy outperformed the traditional impregnation method for catalytic semi-hydrogenation of acetylene.
Change detection in SAR image based on weighted difference image generation and optimized random forest
Authors: Yuan Mengting , Xin Zhihui , Liao Guisheng , Huang Penghui , Li Yongxin
Published: May 2024

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image change detection suffers from poor quality of the difference image and low detection accuracy. Hence, this paper proposes a SAR image change detection method based on a fused difference image and an optimized random forest scheme, termed LRN‐SSARF. Specifically, a fusion operator difference image LRN is proposed, which is generated using a weighted fusion of log‐ratio (LR), ratio (R), and normalized ratio (NoR). This difference image generation method reduces noise's influence. Then, the Otsu algorithm is applied to segment the difference image and select the training samples. The training samples are input into the random forest (RF) model optimised by the sparrow search algorithm (SSA) for training and classification. Finally, the region link is uesd to refine the detection results and generate the final result. The change detection results of six real SAR image scenes highlight that the proposed algorithm has a high detection accuracy, and affords appealing integrity and detailed information about the change regions. Specially, the detection accuracy advantage of the Bangladesh dataset is larger, with the accuracy and Kappa coefficient reaching 98.04% and 92.00%, much higher than the competitor methods.
A bi‐level mobile energy storage pre‐positioning method for distribution network coupled with transportation network against typhoon disaster
Authors: Zhou Ke , Jin Qingren , Feng Bin , Wu Lifang
Published: May 2024

Mobile energy storage (MES), as a flexible resource, plays a significant role in disaster emergency response. Rational pre‐positioning ahead of disasters can accelerate the dispatch of MES to power outage areas, and further reduce load losses. This paper focuses on typhoon disasters and studies the MES pre‐positioning method for distribution networks coupled with transportation networks. Firstly, a typhoon model considering the typhoon eye was formulated. Secondly, the analysis covering the diverse impacts of typhoons on the ‘generation‐transmission‐load‐road’ system was conducted. Subsequently, a bi‐level pre‐positioning model, considering multi‐index evaluation, was established based on scenario‐based stochastic optimization. Finally, the modified MATPOWER 18‐node test system was utilized to verify the performance of the proposed method, and the simulation results demonstrated its effectiveness and applicability.
ECLAIRs, a coded mask aperture telescope onboard the SVOM space mission
Authors: Coleiro A. , Lachaud C. , Cangemi F.
Published: May 2024

We introduce the coded mask imaging technique with a focus on the ECLAIRs instrument onboard the SVOM space mission. Detecting unknown astrophysical transient sources in the hard X-ray band requires monitoring a large part of the sky. Coded mask instruments are well suited to perform these observations. ECLAIRs, thanks to its low energy threshold, will open a new window on the transient universe but it comes with its own challenges, in particular in the design of its coded mask.
Programmable integrated photonics: a new paradigm for low cost multifunctional optics
Authors: Capmany José , Perez-Lopez Daniel
Published: May 2024

This article presents the rationale, basic principles of operation, technology stack, and areas of application of a new technology approach called programmable integrated photonic. In essence, it is based on the same high-level concepts that inspired several decades ago the birth of programmable integrated electronic devices such as the microprocessor, the field programmable gate array, and the digital signal processor. We provide a final discussion on its current limiting challenges.