bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are Forecasts of the Tropical Cyclone Radius of Maximum Wind Skillful?
Authors: Trabing Benjamin C. , Penny Andrew B. , Martinez Jonathan , Fritz Cody
Published: June 2024

The radius of maximum wind (RMW) defines the location of the maximum winds in a tropical cyclone and is critical to understanding intensity change as well as hazard impacts. A comparison between the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System (HAFS) models and two statistical models based off the National Hurricane Center official forecast is conducted relative to a new baseline climatology to better understand whether models have skill in forecasting the RMW of North Atlantic tropical cyclones. On average, the HAFS models are less skillful than the climatology and persistence baseline and two statistically derived RMW estimates. The performance of the HAFS models is dependent on intensity with better skill for stronger tropical cyclones compared to weaker tropical cyclones. To further improve guidance of tropical cyclone hazards, more work needs to be done to improve forecasts of tropical cyclone structure.
Human gastric cancer progression and stabilization of ATG2B through RNF5 binding facilitated by autophagy-associated CircDHX8
Authors: Wei Guanxin , Chen Xiang , Ruan Tuo , Ma Xianxiong , Zhu Xiuxian , Wen Wenhao , He Danzeng , Tao Kaixiong , Wu Chuanqing
Published: June 2024

The role of circDHX8 in the interplay between autophagy and gastric cancer (GC) progression remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying the role of hsa_circ_003899 (circDHX8) in the malignancy of GC. Differential expression of circRNAs between GC and normal tissues was determined using circle-seq and microarray datasets (GSE83521). These circRNAs were validated using qPCR and Sanger sequencing. The function of circDHX8 was investigated through interference with circDHX8 expression experiments using in vitro and in vivo functional assays. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy were used to establish whether circDHX8 promoted autophagy in GC cells. To elucidate the mechanism underlying the circDHX8-mediated regulation of autophagy, we performed bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down, mass spectrometry (MS), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and other western Blot related experiments. Hsa_circ_0003899 (circDHX8) was identified as upregulated and shown to enhance the malignant progression in GC cells by promoting cellular autophagy. Mechanistically, circDHX8 increased ATG2B protein levels by preventing ubiquitin-mediated degradation, thereby facilitating cell proliferation and invasion in GC. Additionally, circDHX8 directly interacts with the E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase RNF5, inhibiting the RNF5-mediated degradation of ATG2B. Concurrently, ATG2B, an acetylated protein, is subjected to SIRT1-mediated deacetylation, enhancing its binding to RNF5. Consequently, we established a novel mechanism for the role of circDHX8 in the malignant progression of GC.
Entire expressed peripheral blood transcriptome in pediatric severe malarial anemia
Authors: Anyona Samuel B. , Cheng Qiuying , Wasena Sharley A. , Osata Shamim W. , Guo Yan , Raballah Evans , Hurwitz Ivy , Onyango Clinton O. , Ouma Collins , Seidenberg Philip D. , McMahon Benjamin H. , Lambert Christophe G. , Schneider Kristan A. , Perkins Douglas J.
Published: June 2024

This study on severe malarial anemia (SMA: Hb < 6.0 g/dL), a leading global cause of childhood morbidity and mortality, compares the entire expressed whole blood host transcriptome between Kenyan children (3-48 mos.) with non-SMA (Hb ≥ 6.0 g/dL, n = 39) and SMA (n = 18). Differential expression analyses reveal 1403 up-regulated and 279 down-regulated transcripts in SMA, signifying impairments in host inflammasome activation, cell death, and innate immune and cellular stress responses. Immune cell profiling shows decreased memory responses, antigen presentation, and immediate pathogen clearance, suggesting an immature/improperly regulated immune response in SMA. Module repertoire analysis of blood-specific gene signatures identifies up-regulation of erythroid genes, enhanced neutrophil activation, and impaired inflammatory responses in SMA. Enrichment analyses converge on disruptions in cellular homeostasis and regulatory pathways for the ubiquitin-proteasome system, autophagy, and heme metabolism. Pathway analyses highlight activation in response to hypoxic conditions [Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF)−1 target and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) signaling] as a central theme in SMA. These signaling pathways are also top-ranking in protein abundance measures and a Ugandan SMA cohort with available transcriptomic data. Targeted RNA-Seq validation shows strong concordance with our entire expressed transcriptome data. These findings identify key molecular themes in SMA pathogenesis, offering potential targets for new malaria therapies.
Ligand-mediate exciton allocation enables efficient cluster-based white light-emitting diodes via single and heavy doping
Authors: Sun Jianan , Li Naiyu , Gong Zhuke , Man Yi , Zhong Chunlei , Duan Chunbo , Chen Shuo , Zhang Jing , Han Chunmiao , Xu Hui
Published: June 2024

Despite potential in high-resolution and low-cost displays and lighting, multi-doping structures and low concentrations (<1%) limit repeatability and stability of single-emissive-layer white light-emitting devices. Herein, we report a singly doped white-emitting system of blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence host matrix (CzAcSF) doped by yellow Cu4I4 cluster ([tBCzDppy]2Cu4I4). CzAcSF:x% [tBCzDppy]2Cu4I4 films realize photo- and electro-luminescence colors from cool white to warm white at x = 20–40. The external quantum efficiency of 23.5% was achieved at x = 30, indicating the record-high efficiency among solution-processed analogs and the largest doping concentration among efficient white light-emitting devices. It shows that di(tert-butyl)carbazole moieties in [tBCzDppy]2Cu4I4 provide high-lying excited energy levels at~2.6 eV to mediate energy transfer from CzAcSF (2.9 eV) to coordinated Cu4I4 (2.2 eV). Our results demonstrate the antenna effect of ligands on optimizing charge and energy transfer in organic-cluster systems and superiority of white cluster light-emitting diodes in practical applications.
Ribosomal DNA copy number is associated with body mass in humans and other mammals
Authors: Law Pui Pik , Mikheeva Liudmila A. , Rodriguez-Algarra Francisco , Asenius Fredrika , Gregori Maria , Seaborne Robert A. E. , Yildizoglu Selin , Miller James R. C. , Tummala Hemanth , Mesnage Robin , Antoniou Michael N. , Li Weilong , Tan Qihua , Hillman Sara L. , Rakyan Vardhman K. , Williams David J. , Holland Michelle L.
Published: June 2024

Body mass results from a complex interplay between genetics and environment. Previous studies of the genetic contribution to body mass have excluded repetitive regions due to the technical limitations of platforms used for population scale studies. Here we apply genome-wide approaches, identifying an association between adult body mass and the copy number (CN) of 47S-ribosomal DNA (rDNA). rDNA codes for the 18 S, 5.8 S and 28 S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) components of the ribosome. In mammals, there are hundreds of copies of these genes. Inter-individual variation in the rDNA CN has not previously been associated with a mammalian phenotype. Here, we show that rDNA CN variation associates with post-pubertal growth rate in rats and body mass index in adult humans. rDNA CN is not associated with rRNA transcription rates in adult tissues, suggesting the mechanistic link occurs earlier in development. This aligns with the observation that the association emerges by early adulthood.
The global apparel industry is a significant yet overlooked source of plastic leakage
Authors: Kounina Anna , Daystar Jesse , Chalumeau Sophie , Devine Jon , Geyer Roland , Pires Steven T. , Sonar Shreya Uday , Venditti Richard A. , Boucher Julien
Published: June 2024

Plastic pollution is a global environmental threat with potentially irreversible impacts on aquatic life, ecosystems, and human health. This study is a comprehensive assessment of the global apparel industry’s contribution to plastic pollution. It includes plastic leakage of packaging and end-of-life apparel waste in addition to fiber emissions during apparel production and use. We estimate that the apparel industry generated 8.3 [4.8–12.3] million tons (Mt) of plastic pollution in 2019, corresponding to 14% [5.5%–30%] of the estimated 60 Mt from all sectors. In this study, we demonstrate that the main source of plastic pollution from the apparel supply chain is synthetic clothing as mismanaged waste either in the country of its original use or in the countries receiving used apparel exports. A fundamental transformation of the apparel economy towards a circular framework and decreased synthetic apparel consumption is needed to tackle apparel-related plastic pollution.
A solvent-free processed low-temperature tolerant adhesive
Authors: Xie Xiaoming , Jiang Yulian , Yao Xiaoman , Zhang Jiaqi , Zhang Zilin , Huang Taoping , Li Runhan , Chen Yifa , Li Shun-Li , Lan Ya-Qian
Published: June 2024

Ultra-low temperature resistant adhesive is highly desired yet scarce for material adhesion for the potential usage in Arctic/Antarctic or outer space exploration. Here we develop a solvent-free processed low-temperature tolerant adhesive with excellent adhesion strength and organic solvent stability, wide tolerable temperature range (i.e. −196 to 55 °C), long-lasting adhesion effect ( > 60 days, −196 °C) that exceeds the classic commercial hot melt adhesives. Furthermore, combine experimental results with theoretical calculations, the strong interaction energy between polyoxometalate and polymer is the main factor for the low-temperature tolerant adhesive, possessing enhanced cohesion strength, suppressed polymer crystallization and volumetric contraction. Notably, manufacturing at scale can be easily achieved by the facile scale-up solvent-free processing, showing much potential towards practical application in Arctic/Antarctic or planetary exploration.
Covering assisted intuitionistic fuzzy bi-selection technique for data reduction and its applications
Authors: Saini Rajat , Tiwari Anoop Kumar , Nath Abhigyan , Singh Phool , Maurya S. P. , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: June 2024

The dimension and size of data is growing rapidly with the extensive applications of computer science and lab based engineering in daily life. Due to availability of vagueness, later uncertainty, redundancy, irrelevancy, and noise, which imposes concerns in building effective learning models. Fuzzy rough set and its extensions have been applied to deal with these issues by various data reduction approaches. However, construction of a model that can cope with all these issues simultaneously is always a challenging task. None of the studies till date has addressed all these issues simultaneously. This paper investigates a method based on the notions of intuitionistic fuzzy (IF) and rough sets to avoid these obstacles simultaneously by putting forward an interesting data reduction technique. To accomplish this task, firstly, a novel IF similarity relation is addressed. Secondly, we establish an IF rough set model on the basis of this similarity relation. Thirdly, an IF granular structure is presented by using the established similarity relation and the lower approximation. Next, the mathematical theorems are used to validate the proposed notions. Then, the importance-degree of the IF granules is employed for redundant size elimination. Further, significance-degree-preserved dimensionality reduction is discussed. Hence, simultaneous instance and feature selection for large volume of high-dimensional datasets can be performed to eliminate redundancy and irrelevancy in both dimension and size, where vagueness and later uncertainty are handled with rough and IF sets respectively, whilst noise is tackled with IF granular structure. Thereafter, a comprehensive experiment is carried out over the benchmark datasets to demonstrate the effectiveness of simultaneous feature and data point selection methods. Finally, our proposed methodology aided framework is discussed to enhance the regression performance for IC50 of Antiviral Peptides.
Late Holocene relative sea-level records from coral microatolls in Singapore
Authors: Tan Fangyi , Horton Benjamin P. , Ke Lin , Li Tanghua , Quye-Sawyer Jennifer , Lim Joanne T. Y. , Peng Dongju , Aw Zihan , Wee Shi Jun , Yeo Jing Ying , Haigh Ivan , Wang Xianfeng , Aung Lin Thu , Mitchell Andrew , Sarkawi Gina , Li Xinnan , Tan Nurul Syafiqah , Meltzner Aron J.
Published: June 2024

Late Holocene relative sea-level (RSL) data are important to understand the drivers of RSL change, but there is a lack of precise RSL records from the Sunda Shelf. Here, we produced a Late Holocene RSL reconstruction from coral microatolls in Singapore, demonstrating for the first time the utility ofDiploastrea helioporamicroatolls as sea-level indicators. We produced 12 sea-level index points and three marine limiting data with a precision of < ± 0.2 m (2σ) and < ± 26 years uncertainties (95% highest density region). The data show a RSL fall of 0.31 ± 0.18 m between 2.8 and 0.6 thousand years before present (kyr BP), at rates between − 0.1 ± 0.3 and − 0.2 ± 0.7 mm/year. Surface profiles of the fossil coral microatolls suggest fluctuations in the rate of RSL fall: (1) stable between 2.8 and 2.5 kyr BP; (2) rising at ~ 1.8 kyr BP; and (3) stable from 0.8 to 0.6 kyr BP. The microatoll record shows general agreement with published, high-quality RSL data within the Sunda Shelf. Comparison to a suite of glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) models indicate preference for lower viscosities in the mantle. However, more high quality and precise Late Holocene RSL data are needed to further evaluate the drivers of RSL change in the region and better constrain GIA model parameters.
Modeling CO2 solubility in water using gradient boosting and light gradient boosting machine
Authors: Mahmoudzadeh Atena , Amiri-Ramsheh Behnam , Atashrouz Saeid , Abedi Ali , Abuswer Meftah Ali , Ostadhassan Mehdi , Mohaddespour Ahmad , Hemmati-Sarapardeh Abdolhossein
Published: June 2024

The growing application of carbon dioxide (CO2) in various environmental and energy fields, including carbon capture and storage (CCS) and several CO2-based enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques, highlights the importance of studying the phase equilibria of this gas with water. Therefore, accurate prediction of CO2 solubility in water becomes an important thermodynamic property. This study focused on developing two powerful intelligent models, namely gradient boosting (GBoost) and light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM) that predict CO2 solubility in water with high accuracy. The results revealed the outperformance of the GBoost model with root mean square error (RMSE) and determination coefficient (R2) of 0.137 mol/kg and 0.9976, respectively. The trend analysis demonstrated that the developed models were highly capable of detecting the physical trend of CO2 solubility in water across various pressure and temperature ranges. Moreover, the Leverage technique was employed to identify suspected data points as well as the applicability domain of the proposed models. The results showed that less than 5% of the data points were detected as outliers representing the large applicability domain of intelligent models. The outcome of this research provided insight into the potential of intelligent models in predicting solubility of CO2 in pure water.
Practices improvement of building information modeling in the Egyptian construction projects
Authors: Nabil Yasmin , Ibrahim Ahmed H. , Hosny Suad
Published: June 2024

Reduced Reinforced Concrete Material Waste (RRCMW) in building projects is regarded as a critical issue that must be managed. The main purpose of the research is to illustrate the importance of BIM in construction. Also, it is found that the main objectives of this paper are to study the improvement of practicing BIM in Egypt and, practicing of BIM in construction industry in Egypt is also measured. Two questionnaires survey are conducted. The first questionnaire is to measure the improvement of using BIM during the last 7 years and it is discovered that there is a massive improvement in using BIM in this period. The second questionnaire is to determine the adopting value of BIM in Egyptian projects in order to meet the study objective. So, based on the questionnaire analysis, it is discovered that about 94% of consultants actually practicing BIM in 3D while about 72% of contractors agree with practicing BIM in 3D. Also it is found that about 86% and 78% of consultants actually practicing BIM in 4D and 5D while only about 43% and 40% of contractors agree with practicing BIM 4D and 5D model respectively. Only about 61% and 58% considered that BIM is important in 6D and 7D respectively because it isn’t widely used in Egypt and engineers use BIM up to 5D. As a result, the findings reveal that the number of consultant’s site engineer’s respondents are more than contractors because the usage of BIM is effective in the field of design and consultancy more than using in site and while BIM isn't extensively utilized in Egypt, engineers should be familiar with it because it will be a useful tool in the future. So, the main purpose of this study is to illustrate practicing of BIM in the Egyptian construction projects and study the improvement of using BIM during the last 7 years in Egypt because BIM is considered as an important technology used to reduce waste in construction projects from design stage to construction and operation stage but still not used in Egypt in a wide range till now, so it is very crucial to study this issue. Also, another main objective of this study is to compare the development done in using BIM during the last 8 years to make sure that using BIM in Egypt is going on and developed.
Comparative genomics of Giardia duodenalis sub-assemblage AI beaver (Be-2) and human (WB-C6) strains show remarkable homozygosity, sequence similarity, and conservation of VSP genes
Authors: de Paula Baptista Rodrigo , Tucker Matthew S. , Valente Matthew J. , Srivastava Subodh K. , Chehab Nadya , Li Alison , Shaik Jahangheer S. , Ramirez Juan David , Rosenthal Benjamin M. , Khan Asis
Published: June 2024

Giardia duodenalis, a major cause of waterborne infection, infects a wide range of mammalian hosts and is subdivided into eight genetically well-defined assemblages named A through H. However, fragmented genomes and a lack of comparative analysis within and between the assemblages render unclear the molecular mechanisms controlling host specificity and differential disease outcomes. To address this, we generated a near-complete de novo genome of AI assemblage using the Oxford Nanopore platform by sequencing the Be-2 genome. We generated 148,144 long-reads with quality scores of > 7. The final genome assembly consists of only nine contigs with an N50 of 3,045,186 bp. This assembly agrees closely with the assembly of another strain in the AI assemblage (WB-C6). However, a critical difference is that a region previously placed in the five-prime region of Chr5 belongs to Chr4 of Be-2. We find a high degree of conservation in the ploidy, homozygosity, and the presence of cysteine-rich variant-specific surface proteins (VSPs) within the AI assemblage. Our assembly provides a nearly complete genome of a member of the AI assemblage of G. duodenalis, aiding population genomic studies capable of elucidating Giardia transmission, host range, and pathogenicity.
ACLS4 could be a potential therapeutic target for severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Guo Feng , Lu Yunkun , Du Lijun , Guo Xiuliu , Xie Jinyan , Cai Xiujun
Published: June 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is currently among the most prevalent digestive diseases. The pathogenesis of AP remains elusive, and there is no specific treatment. Therefore, identifying novel therapeutic targets is imperative for effective management and prevention of AP. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of peripheral blood from patients with AP and the pancreatic tissue from a mouse model of AP. Our analyses revealed that mouse model of AP exhibited a higher enrichment of mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling, endocytosis, apoptosis and tight junction pathways than the control. Subsequent weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified 15 gene modules, containing between 50 and 1000 genes each, which demonstrated significant correlations within samples from patients with AP. Further screening identified four genes (ACSL4, GALNT3, WSB1, and IL1R1) that were significantly upregulated in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) in both human and mouse samples. In mouse models of SAP, ACSL4 was significantly upregulated in the pancreas, whereas GALNT3, WSB1, and IL1R1 were not. Lastly, we found that a commercially available ACSL4 inhibitor, PRGL493, markedly reduced IL-6 and TNFα expression, alleviated pancreatic edema and necrosis, and diminished the infiltration of inflammatory cells. In conclusion, this study comprehensively depicts the key genes and signaling pathways implicated in AP and suggests the potential of ACSL4 as a novel therapeutic target for SAP. These findings provide valuable insights for further exploration of therapeutic strategies for SAP.
A systematic review and meta-analysis, investigating dose and time of fluvoxamine treatment efficacy for COVID-19 clinical deterioration, death, and Long-COVID complications
Authors: Prasanth Mani Iyer , Wannigama Dhammika Leshan , Reiersen Angela Michelle , Thitilertdecha Premrutai , Prasansuklab Anchalee , Tencomnao Tewin , Brimson Sirikalaya , Brimson James Michael
Published: June 2024

There have been 774,075,242 cases of COVID-19 and 7,012,986 deaths worldwide as of January 2024. In the early stages of the pandemic, there was an urgent need to reduce the severity of the disease and prevent the need for hospitalization to avoid stress on healthcare systems worldwide. The repurposing of drugs to prevent clinical deterioration of COVID-19 patients was trialed in many studies using many different drugs. Fluvoxamine (an SSRI and sigma-1 receptor agonist) was initially identified to potentially provide beneficial effects in COVID-19-infected patients, preventing clinical deterioration and the need for hospitalization. Fourteen clinical studies have been carried out to date, with seven of those being randomized placebo-controlled studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis covers the literature from the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019 until January 2024. Search terms related to fluvoxamine, such as its trade names and chemical names, along with words related to COVID-19, such as SARS-CoV-2 and coronavirus, were used in literature databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and the ClinicalTrials.gov database from NIH, to identify the trials used in the subsequent analysis. Clinical deterioration and death data were extracted from these studies where available and used in the meta-analysis. A total of 7153 patients were studied across 14 studies (both open-label and double-blind placebo-controlled). 681 out of 3553 (19.17%) in the standard care group and 255 out of 3600 (7.08%) in the fluvoxamine-treated group experienced clinical deterioration. The estimated average log odds ratio was 1.087 (95% CI 0.200 to 1.973), which differed significantly from zero (z = 2.402, p = 0.016). The seven placebo-controlled studies resulted in a log odds ratio of 0.359 (95% CI 0.1111 to 0.5294), which differed significantly from zero (z = 3.103, p = 0.002). The results of this study identified fluvoxamine as effective in preventing clinical deterioration, and subgrouping analysis suggests that earlier treatment with a dose of 200 mg or above provides the best outcomes. We hope the outcomes of this study can help design future studies into respiratory viral infections and potentially improve clinical outcomes.
Evaluation of highway debris flow hazard based on geomorphic evolution theory coupled with material response rate
Authors: He Na , Han Ruze , Hu Guisheng , Yang Zhiquan , Xu Linjuan , Gurkalo Filip
Published: June 2024

Assessments of highway feasibility frequently lack the detailed data and geological information necessary to conduct hazard evaluations of debris flows. This study discusses the processes of debris flow development when regional rainfall meets the critical level required for debris flow initiation. It utilizes geomorphic evolution theory and establishes a regional risk assessment matrix for debris flow by combining information about gullies and source sensitivity. Considering the location relationship between the highway and debris flow gullies, a rapid evaluation method for debris flow risk assessment along the G318 highway in Sichuan Province is proposed by modifying the judgment matrix. The four debris flow gullies constructed during the upgrading project in Yajiang County, stretching from the west of the city to the Shearer Bay section, were analyzed via examples. The results show that, among the four selected debris flow gullies, two had medium hazard levels, and two had high hazard levels. The validation results are consistent with the actual results, implying that the evaluation method used in this study is accurate and feasible. This method is suitable for the rapid evaluation of debris flow disaster hazards in the feasibility assessment stage of a highway because it relies on readily available data sources, and the evaluation results are fast and convenient. The highway passes through four debris flow gullies, which directly impact the alignment of this particular section of the geological route and the engineering layout. Based on current specifications, the maximum impact range of a one-time debris flow under the given frequency conditions was calculated using the "rainfall method." The results showed that the maximum impact ranges of a debris flow, occurring once in 100 years, for four gullies would be 9.08 m, 9.09 m, 10.86 m, and 10.08 m. The safe clearance heights of bridges over the four gullies should be 14.58 m, 14.59 m, 16.36 m, and 16.3 m. Additionally, the safety clearance width for all gullies should be 5.0 m.
Temperature dependence of the dielectric function and critical points of monolayer WSe2
Authors: Nguyen Xuan Au , Le Long V. , Kim Suk Hyun , Kim Young Duck , Diware Mangesh S. , Kim Tae Jung , Kim Young Dong
Published: June 2024

Monolayer materials typically display intriguing temperature-dependent dielectric and optical properties, which are crucial for improving the structure and functionality of associated devices. Due to its unique photoelectric capabilities, monolayer WSe2 has recently received a lot of attention in the fields of atomically thin electronics and optoelectronics. In this work, we focus on the evolution of the temperature-dependent dielectric function (ε = ε1 + i ε2) of monolayer WSe2 over energies from 0.74 to 6.40 eV and temperatures from 40 to 350 K. We analyze the second derivatives of ε with respect to energy to accurately locate the critical points (CP). The dependence of the observed CP energies on temperature is consistent with the alternative domination of the declining exciton binding energy as the temperature increases.
Impact of hyperglycemia on tuberculosis treatment outcomes: a cohort study
Authors: Yanqiu Xu , Yang Yang , Xiaoqing Wu , Zhixuan Lei , Kuan Zhao , Xin Guo , Bo Zhang , Jinyu Wang , Jing Cai , Yan Ma , Aiguo Ma
Published: June 2024

Hyperglycemia is prevalent and closely associated with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). This study aimed to investigate the effects of hyperglycemia on the outcomes of PTB treatment. This study comprised 791 patients with PTB in total. Patients with fasting plasma glucose levels of ≥ 6.1 mmol/L were diagnosed with hyperglycemia. Anthropometric and baseline demographic data were also collected. The treatment response was assessed based on clinical symptoms (sputum production, cough, chest pain, fever, hemoptysis, night sweats, loss of appetite, and fatigue), sputum smear, chest computed tomography (CT), and adverse gastrointestinal responses (vomiting, nausea, abdominal distension, diarrhea, and constipation). A generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to evaluate these relationships. Hyperglycemia affected 266 (33.6%) of the 791 patients with PTB. In GEE analyses, patients with hyperglycemia exhibited a greater incidence of elevated tuberculosis (TB) scores (odds ratio (OR) 1.569; 95% CI 1.040–2.369), cough (OR 1.332; 95% CI 1.050–1.690), and night sweats (OR 1.694; 95% CI 1.288–2.335). Hyperglycemia was linked with a higher risk of positive sputum smears (OR 1.941; 95% CI 1.382–2.727). During therapy, hyperglycemia was also associated with an increased incidence of vomiting (OR 2.738; 95% CI 1.041–7.198), abdominal distension (OR 2.230; 95% CI 1.193–4.171), and constipation (OR 2.372; 95% CI 1.442–3.902). However, the CT results indicated that hyperglycemia did not affect pulmonary lesions in patients with TB. Patients with TB and hyperglycemia are at a higher risk of severe clinical manifestations, positive sputum smears, and adverse gastrointestinal effects and, therefore, the special situation of hyperglycemic patients should be considered in the prevention and treatment of TB.
Conserved epigenetic hallmarks of T cell aging during immunity and malignancy
Authors: Mi Tian , Soerens Andrew G. , Alli Shanta , Kang Tae Gun , Vasandan Anoop Babu , Wang Zhaoming , Vezys Vaiva , Kimura Shunsuke , Iacobucci Ilaria , Baylin Stephen B. , Jones Peter A. , Hiner Christopher , Mueller April , Goldstein Harris , Mullighan Charles G. , Zebley Caitlin C. , Masopust David , Youngblood Ben
Published: June 2024

Chronological aging correlates with epigenetic modifications at specific loci, calibrated to species lifespan. Such ‘epigenetic clocks’ appear conserved among mammals, but whether they are cell autonomous and restricted by maximal organismal lifespan remains unknown. We used a multilifetime murine model of repeat vaccination and memory T cell transplantation to test whether epigenetic aging tracks with cellular replication and if such clocks continue ‘counting’ beyond species lifespan. Here we found that memory T cell epigenetic clocks tick independently of host age and continue through four lifetimes. Instead of recording chronological time, T cells recorded proliferative experience through modification of cell cycle regulatory genes. Applying this epigenetic profile across a range of human T cell contexts, we found that naive T cells appeared ‘young’ regardless of organism age, while in pediatric patients, T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia appeared to have epigenetically aged for up to 200 years. Thus, T cell epigenetic clocks measure replicative history and can continue to accumulate well-beyond organismal lifespan.
The transcription factor PAX5 activates human LINE1 retrotransposons to induce cellular senescence
Authors: Tang Huanyin , Yang Jiaqing , Xu Junhao , Zhang Weina , Geng Anke , Jiang Ying , Mao Zhiyong
Published: June 2024

As a hallmark of senescent cells, the derepression of Long Interspersed Elements 1 (LINE1) transcription results in accumulated LINE1 cDNA, which triggers the secretion of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and paracrine senescence in a cGAS-STING pathway-dependent manner. However, transcription factors that govern senescence-associated LINE1 reactivation remain ill-defined. Here, we predict several transcription factors that bind to human LINE1 elements to regulate their transcription by analyzing the conserved binding motifs in the 5’-untranslated regions (UTR) of the commonly upregulated LINE1 elements in different types of senescent cells. Further analysis reveals that PAX5 directly binds to LINE1 5’-UTR and the binding is enhanced in senescent cells. The enrichment of PAX5 at the 5’-UTR promotes cellular senescence and SASP by activating LINE1. We also demonstrate that the longevity gene SIRT6 suppresses PAX5 transcription by directly binding to the PAX5 promoter, and overexpressing PAX5 abrogates the suppressive effect of SIRT6 on stress-dependent cellular senescence. Our work suggests that PAX5 could serve as a potential target for drug development aiming to suppress LINE1 activation and treat senescence-associated diseases.
Improved methanogenesis from aqueous pyrolysis liquid (APL) by inoculum selection and pre-ozonation
Authors: Seyedi Saba , Venkiteshwaran Kaushik , Zitomer Daniel
Published: June 2024

APL from municipal wastewater solids (WWS) pyrolysis can be converted to methane by acclimated anaerobic microbes under specific conditions.
Correction: Removal rate constants are not necessarily constant: the case of organic micropollutant removal in wastewater treatment plants
Authors: van Bergen Tamara J. H. M. , Schipper A. M. , Mooij D. , Ragas A. M. J. , Kuiper M. W. , Hendriks A. J. , Huijbregts M. A. J. , van Zelm R.
Published: June 2024

Correction for ‘Removal rate constants are not necessarily constant: the case of organic micropollutant removal in wastewater treatment plants’ by Tamara J. H. M. van Bergen et al., Environ. Sci.: Water Res. Technol., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EW00377B.
Catalytic upgrading of wet waste-derived carboxylic acids to sustainable aviation fuel and chemical feedstocks
Authors: Miller Jacob H. , Al Abri Mayadhin , Stunkel Jim , Koehler Andrew J. , Wiatrowski Matthew R. , McCormick Robert L. , Fioroni Gina , Luecke Jon , Paeper Cheyenne , Arellano-Treviño Martha
Published: June 2024

We develop a continuous catalytic process to convert wet waste-derived volatile fatty acids into sustainable aviation fuel and aromatic chemicals.
Association of chrononutrition patterns with biological aging: evidence from a nationally representative cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Qianyu , Chen Gang , Feng Yanzhi , Li Mo , Liu Xingyu , Ma Lanfang , Zhang Jinjin , Wang Shixuan
Published: June 2024

Previous studies mostly focused on the benefits of caloric restriction and fasting on longevity.
Base-controlled selective cleavage of the C–F bond of difluorocarbene for the divergent assembly of indolizines
Authors: Wu Chun-Yan , Chen Xiang-Long , Yang Dong-Sheng , Tang Yong-Xing , Wang Li-Sheng , Wu Yan-Dong , Zhuang Shi-Yi , Wu An-Xin
Published: June 2024

A [3 + 1 + 1] cascade annulation reaction for the divergent construction of trisubstituted indolizines using sulfoxonium ylides, BrCF2CO2Me and pyridinium salts as readily available substrates has been developed.
Palladium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of lactones under base-free conditions
Authors: Wang Han , Xun Shan-Shan , Yu Chang-Bin , Zhou Yong-Gui
Published: June 2024

We present a palladium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of lactones under base-free conditions through DKR and KR with high enantioselectivity. This work provides a new strategy for asymmetric hydrogenation of esters under base-free conditions.
Electrochemical characterization of γ-Fe2O3 and a reduced graphene oxide composite as a sustainable anode material for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Staffolani Antunes , Sbrascini Leonardo , Bottoni Luca , Minnetti Luca , Darjazi Hamideh , Trapananti Angela , Paparoni Francesco , Rezvani Seyed Javad , Minicucci Marco , Harfouche Messaoud , Nobili Francesco
Published: June 2024

In this paper we report the synthesis and characterization of a γ-Fe2O3/reduced graphene oxide composite anode for Na-ion batteries.
Optimizing Comfort and Efficiency: The Crucial Role of Ergonomics for Neuroanesthesiologists in the Operating Room
Authors: Suresh Sapna , Arumadi Ashitha , Ravindranath Sreeja , Hrishi Ajay P. , Praveen Ranganatha , Sethuraman Manikandan
Published: June 2024

Ergonomic principles, when applied effectively, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, fatigue, and discomfort among neuroanesthesiologists who spend extended hours in the operating room. Properly designed workstations and equipment can enhance accessibility and allow for better positioning during procedures, minimizing the potential for errors and complications. Furthermore, an ergonomic approach fosters a culture of safety and well-being, supporting neuroanesthesiologists' physical and mental health. It promotes teamwork and communication among the surgical team, leading to smoother and more efficient surgeries. Neuroanesthesiologists who work in ergonomically optimized environments are more likely to remain focused, make critical decisions with clarity, and provide the highest standard of patient care. In the evolving landscape of neurosurgery, where advancements in technology and techniques continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, ergonomics is a fundamental pillar that ensures neuroanesthesiologists can adapt, learn, and perform at their best. As we recognize the significance of ergonomics, it becomes essential to invest in ongoing education, research, and implementation of ergonomic solutions to support the dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in neurosurgical care. In summary, prioritizing ergonomics in neurosurgical operating rooms is not just a matter of comfort, it is an investment in the well-being and effectiveness of neuroanesthesiologists and, ultimately, in the quality of care provided to patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures. By integrating ergonomic principles into our practice, we can create safer, more efficient, and more sustainable environments for neuroanesthesiologists, ensuring the continued success of neurosurgery in the years to come.
End-to-Side Venous Anastomosis with IJV: Improving Outcomes of Microvascular Anastomosis in Head and Neck Reconstruction
Authors: Golash Anupam , Bera Sudipta , Kanoi Aditya V. , Hanspal Swaraj , Golash Abhijit
Published: June 2024

Background End-to-side (ES) venous anastomosis is an established approach for head and neck reconstruction and has several benefits over conventional end-to-end (EE) anastomosis. However, this is not preferred by all, which may be due to technical preferences for an EE anastomosis by many surgeons. We present here our experience of routine ES venous anastomosis for head and neck reconstruction over the past 8 years.

Materials and Methods All consecutive head and neck malignancy patients reconstructed with free flap and our routine ES internal jugular vein (IJV) anastomosis approach between 2015 and 2023 have been included in this study. Flap-related variables are reviewed retrospectively.

Results Reconstruction was done with a total of 585 free flaps including 303 radial forearm flaps (RFFs), 143 osteocutaneous fibula flaps (OCFFs), and 139 anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps. The flap survival rate was 573/585 (97.95%). Re-exploration and salvage rates were 45/585 (7.69%) and 38/45, respectively (84.44%).

Conclusion Routine use of ES anastomosis simplifies microvascular anastomosis by avoiding efforts related to the selection of recipient vessels, providing a single large-caliber venous outlet, the favorable geometric orientation of the pedicle, and ease of re-exploration. The vascular anastomosis for RFF, ALT, and OCFF flap is feasible with 7–0 sutures and under 4.5X loupe magnification with this approach quite conveniently with similar outcomes to the reported flap survival rate in the contemporary practice.
Kite String or Manja Cut Injury: A New Culprit
Authors: Patil Surendrakumar B. , Gupta Neha , Gandhi Anshoo , Bhasin Mayank , Rakhonde Prabhakar , Machhale Sushil
Published: June 2024

Background Kite string injuries (manja cut injuries), particularly those caused by Chinese manja, are new culprit of emergencies especially in the month of January in Maharashtra region. These injuries commonly affect the neck, face, hands, and legs, especially among individuals traveling on two wheelers. The visibility challenge, where the kite's thread is difficult to see, further exacerbates the risk.

Materials and Methods We have studied 10 cases of manja cut injuries presented to a tertiary care center in Nagpur during the last 2 years.

Result A total of 10 patients reported kite string-related injuries to our department over a period of 2 years. All patients were male. The majority of patients presented in the younger age group with the mean age of presentation was 25 years. Majority of the patients had injuries in zone 2 of the hand.

Conclusion Kite flying is a traditional festival celebrated in the month of January in Gujarat and Maharashtra for years. However, the introduction of Chinese or nylon manja has led to serious injuries and fate, affecting not only kite flyers but also bystanders, animals, and birds. This study seeks to highlight the harmful consequences of Chinese manja and deceptive appearance of manja giving false impression of simple lacerated wound which could be just a tip of the iceberg.
In quest of perceived transaction cost’s impact on fintech users’ intention: the moderating role of situational factors
Authors: Zhao Haifeng , Khaliq Nosherwan , Li Chunling , Oláh Judit
Published: June 2024

Studies show that Pakistan has made significant advancements in financial technology. However, the costs that prevent a client from using fintech are still unclear. This study aims to analyze the perceived transaction cost-related factors that affect their intention to fintech while having the moderating effects of situational factors. The data collected from an online questionnaire was used to test a structural equation model with Smart PLS 3 analysis. The survey included a two-part form with five-point Likert scales, receiving 276 replies from diverse backgrounds during a three-month online survey. This paper, which is based on Transaction Cost Economics, Innovation Diffusion Theory, and Belk’s Theory, hypothesizes that five antecedents influence consumers’ perceived transaction cost (PTC) of fintech, including dependability (β = −0.223), uncertainty (β = 0.204), asset specificity (β = 0.203), convenience (β = −0.186), complexity (β = 0.181). The intention of consumers to use fintech for online shopping or service utilization is negatively correlated with PTC. When acting as a moderator, situational factors such as the pandemic and impending police, and environmental and physical surroundings are found to be necessary. Customers have difficulty connecting specific reasons for not utilizing fintech to financial concerns. A negative association exists between perceived transaction cost and intention to use fintech. It is discovered that environmental and physical surroundings entirely counteract perceived transaction costs’ detrimental effects on intention to use.
Photon statistics analysis of h-BN quantum emitters with pulsed and continuous-wave excitation
Authors: Akbari Hamidreza , Jha Pankaj K. , Malinowski Kristina , Koltenbah Benjamin E. C. , Atwater Harry A.
Published: June 2024

We report on the quantum photon statistics of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) quantum emitters by analyzing the Mandel Q parameter. We have measured the Mandel Q parameter for h-BN quantum emitters under various temperature and pump power excitation conditions. Under pulsed excitation, we can achieve a Mandel Q of −0.002, and under continuous-wave excitation, this parameter can reach −0.0025. We investigate the effect of cryogenic temperatures on Mandel Q and conclude that the photon statistics vary weakly with temperature. Through the calculation of spontaneous emission from an excited two-level emitter model, we demonstrate good agreement between the measured and calculated Mandel Q parameters when accounting for the experimental photon collection efficiency. Finally, we illustrate the usefulness of Mandel Q in quantum applications by the example of random number generation and analyze the effect of Mandel Q on the speed of generating random bits via this method.
Characterization of process-related interfacial dielectric loss in aluminum-on-silicon by resonator microwave measurements, materials analysis, and imaging
Authors: Chayanun Lert , Biznárová Janka , Zeng Lunjie , Malmberg Per , Nylander Andreas , Osman Amr , Rommel Marcus , Tam Pui Lam , Olsson Eva , Delsing Per , Yurgens August , Bylander Jonas , Fadavi Roudsari Anita
Published: June 2024

We systematically investigate the influence of the fabrication process on dielectric loss in aluminum-on-silicon superconducting coplanar waveguide resonators with internal quality factors (Qi) of about one million at the single-photon level. These devices are essential components in superconducting quantum processors; they also serve as proxies for understanding the energy loss of superconducting qubits. By systematically varying several fabrication steps, we identify the relative importance of reducing loss at the substrate–metal and substrate–air interfaces. We find that it is essential to clean the silicon substrate in hydrogen fluoride (HF) prior to aluminum deposition. A post-fabrication removal of the oxides on the surface of the silicon substrate and the aluminum film by immersion in HF further improves the Qi. We observe a small, but noticeable, adverse effect on the loss by omitting either standard cleaning (SC1), pre-deposition heating of the substrate to 300 °C, or in situ post-deposition oxidation of the film’s top surface. We find no improvement due to excessive pumping meant to reach a background pressure below 6 × 10−8 mbar. We correlate the measured loss with microscopic properties of the substrate–metal interface through characterization with x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy.
Histone ADP-ribosylation promotes resistance to PARP inhibitors by facilitating PARP1 release from DNA lesions
Authors: Zentout Siham , Imburchia Victor , Chapuis Catherine , Duma Lena , Schützenhofer Kira , Prokhorova Evgeniia , Ahel Ivan , Smith Rebecca , Huet Sébastien
Published: June 2024

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) has emerged as a central target for cancer therapies due to the ability of PARP inhibitors to specifically kill tumors deficient for DNA repair by homologous recombination. Upon DNA damage, PARP1 quickly binds to DNA breaks and triggers ADP-ribosylation signaling. ADP-ribosylation is important for the recruitment of various factors to sites of damage, as well as for the timely dissociation of PARP1 from DNA breaks. Indeed, PARP1 becomes trapped at DNA breaks in the presence of PARP inhibitors, a mechanism underlying the cytotoxitiy of these inhibitors. Therefore, any cellular process influencing trapping is thought to impact PARP inhibitor efficiency, potentially leading to acquired resistance in patients treated with these drugs. There are numerous ADP-ribosylation targets after DNA damage, including PARP1 itself as well as histones. While recent findings reported that the automodification of PARP1 promotes its release from the DNA lesions, the potential impact of other ADP-ribosylated proteins on this process remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that histone ADP-ribosylation is also crucial for the timely dissipation of PARP1 from the lesions, thus contributing to cellular resistance to PARP inhibitors. Considering the crosstalk between ADP-ribosylation and other histone marks, our findings open interesting perspectives for the development of more efficient PARP inhibitor-driven cancer therapies.