bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A draft genome assembly of the reef-building coral Acropora hemprichii from the central Red Sea
Authors: Fiesinger Anna , Buitrago-López Carol , Sharaf Abdoallah , Cárdenas Anny , Voolstra Christian R.
Published: November 2024

Coral reef ecosystems are under threat from climate change. Thus, active interventions to spur coral conservation/restoration are critical to support reef survival, greatly informed by a molecular understanding of resilience. The genus Acropora is a species-rich and globally prevalent reef builder that has experienced dramatic declines in the Caribbean. Here we generated a draft genome of the common coral Acropora hemprichii from the central Red Sea, one of the warmest water bodies in the world. We assembled the genome using 10x Chromium sequencing with subsequent scaffolding using a reference genome and Illumina short-read sequencing contigs. The A. hemprichii genome has an assembly size of 495.6 Mb confirmed using physical size estimation, of which 247.8 Mb (50%) are repeats. The scaffold N50 is 1.38 Mb with 99.6% of BUSCO genes identified (93.7% complete, 5.9% fragmented), providing a set of 26,865 protein-coding genes. The Red Sea A. hemprichii reference genome provides a valuable resource for studies aiming to decode the genomic architecture of resilience, e.g. through comparative analyses with other Acropora genomes.
A reference quality, fully annotated diploid genome from a Saudi individual
Authors: Kulmanov Maxat , Tawfiq Rund , Liu Yang , Al Ali Hatoon , Abdelhakim Marwa , Alarawi Mohammed , Aldakhil Hind , Alhattab Dana , Alsolme Ebtehal A. , Althagafi Azza , Angelov Angel , Bougouffa Salim , Driguez Patrick , Park Changsook , Putra Alexander , Reyes-Ramos Ana M. , Hauser Charlotte A. E. , Cheung Ming Sin , Abedalthagafi Malak S. , Hoehndorf Robert
Published: November 2024

We have used multiple sequencing approaches to sequence the genome of a volunteer from Saudi Arabia. We use the resulting data to generate a de novo assembly of the genome, and use different computational approaches to refine the assembly. As a consequence, we provide a contiguous assembly of the complete genome of an individual from Saudi Arabia for all chromosomes except chromosome Y, and label this assembly . We transferred genome annotations from reference genomes to fully annotate , and we make all primary sequencing data, the assembly, and the genome annotations freely available in public databases using the FAIR data principles. is the first telomere-to-telomere-assembled genome from a Saudi individual that is freely available for any purpose.
Setting the standard for machine learning in phase field prediction: a benchmark dataset and baseline metrics
Authors: Rieger Laura Hannemose , Zelič Klemen , Mele Igor , Katrašnik Tomaž , Bhowmik Arghya
Published: November 2024

Phase field models are an important mesoscale method that serves as a bridge between the atomic scale and the macroscale, used for modeling complex phenomena at the microstructure level. Machine learning can be employed to accelerate these simulations, enabling faster and more efficient analyses. However, the development of new machine learning algorithms depends on access to extensive datasets. This work introduces an accessible and well-documented dataset aimed at benchmarking new machine learning algorithms. We validate the dataset with a benchmark using U-Net regression, a widely used neural network architecture. Although direct comparisons are limited by the lack of existing benchmarks, our model’s error metrics are competitive with previous work and generalize across multiple domain sizes. This contribution provides a valuable resource for future efforts in machine learning model development for phase field simulations and demonstrates the potential of U-Net regression, highlighting the scope for novel method development in this area.
Expression and regulation of SETBP1 in the song system of male zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) during singing
Authors: Grönberg Dana Jenny , Pinto de Carvalho Sara Luisa , Dernerova Nikola , Norton Phillip , Wong Maggie Mei-Ki , Mendoza Ezequiel
Published: November 2024

Rare de novo heterozygous loss-of-function SETBP1 variants lead to a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by speech deficits, indicating a potential involvement of SETBP1 in human speech. However, the expression pattern of SETBP1 in brain regions associated with vocal learning remains poorly understood, along with the underlying molecular mechanisms linking it to vocal production. In this study, we examined SETBP1 expression in the brain of male zebra finches, a well-established model for studying vocal production learning. We demonstrated that zebra finch SETBP1 exhibits a greater number of exons and isoforms compared to its human counterpart. We characterized a SETBP1 antibody and showed that SETBP1 colocalized with FoxP1, FoxP2, and Parvalbumin in key song nuclei. Moreover, SETBP1 expression in neurons in Area X is significantly higher in zebra finches singing alone, than those singing courtship song to a female, or non-singers. Importantly, we found a distinctive neuronal protein expression of SETBP1 and FoxP2 in Area X only in zebra finches singing alone, but not in the other conditions. We demonstrated SETBP1´s regulatory role on FoxP2 promoter activity in vitro. Taken together, these findings provide compelling evidence for SETBP1 expression in brain regions to be crucial for vocal learning and its modulation by singing behavior.
Simulation of a Rohksar–Kivelson ladder on a NISQ device
Authors: Gupta Sabhyata , Javanmard Younes , Osborne Tobias J. , Santos Luis
Published: November 2024

We present a quantum-classical algorithm to study the dynamics of the Rohksar–Kivelson plaquette ladder on NISQ devices. We show that complexity is largely reduced using gauge invariance, additional symmetries, and a crucial property associated to how plaquettes are blocked against ring-exchange in the ladder geometry. This allows for an efficient simulation of sizable plaquette ladders with a small number of qubits, well suited for the capabilities of present NISQ devices. We illustrate the procedure for ladders with simulation of up to 8 plaquettes in an IBM-Q machine, employing scaled quantum gates.
The influence of bio-based monomers on the structure and thermal properties of polyurethanes
Authors: Brzoska Joanna , Datta Janusz , Konefał Rafał , Pokorný Václav , Beneš Hynek
Published: November 2024

Most polyurethanes (PU) are currently produced through the polyaddition reaction of polyisocyanates with polyols and chain extenders, using components of petrochemical origin. From an environmental and geopolitical point of view, and with regard to the problems of oil supply and processing, the replacement of petrochemical PU raw materials with renewable resources is highly desirable. It is also one of the principles of sustainable development and an important challenge for chemical companies and market competitiveness. Current research studies focus mainly on the use of bio-based polyols for PUs, while other PU components, in particular polyisocyanates, remain of petrochemical origin. In this work, a series of PUs have been synthesized by polyaddition reactions of different types of renewable polyols and bio-based polyisocyanates. The effects of the bio-derived components on the structure, thermal stability and phase transformations of the PU were studied using FTIR and NMR spectroscopy, SWAXS, TGA, DSC, DMTA and TGA-FTIR. A full conversion of the bio-based monomers was achieved in all cases, indicating good compatibility and reactivity of all bio-based components. It was observed that bio-based PU exhibited a lower degree of phase separation and slightly lower thermal stability compared to PUs from petrochemical monomers.
Severe toxicities in amazonian populations and the role of precision medicine in acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment
Authors: Leitão Luciana Pereira Colares , Monte Natasha , Rodrigues Juliana Carla Gomes , de Freitas Lilian Marques , Ribeiro-dos-Santos André Maurício , Ribeiro-dos-Santos Ândrea , Santos Sidney , de Souza Sandro José , Fernandes Marianne Rodrigues , dos Santos Ney Pereira Carneiro
Published: November 2024

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or dexamethasone, constitute integral components of antineoplastic regimens for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) therapy, albeit accompanied by significant adverse effects. The multifactorial nature of interindividual variability in drug response, encompassing genetic polymorphisms, underscores the complexity of pharmacotherapy outcomes. However, pharmacogenetic investigations hitherto have predominantly focused on cohorts of European and North American descent, thus limiting the generalizability of findings to populations with minimal representation. Indigenous populations in Brazil, particularly those inhabiting the Amazon region, exhibit a distinctive genetic heritage, predominantly characterized by Native American ancestry. These populations frequently manifest suboptimal therapeutic responses and elevated mortality rates following ALL treatment. Therefore, delineating the molecular signatures of genes implicated in the corticosteroid pathway within these indigenous cohorts assumes paramount importance. This study identified novel variants within genes associated with the glucocorticoid pathway in indigenous Amazonian populations and conducted comparative analyses of variant frequencies across diverse global populations. The findings underscore the genetic uniqueness of indigenous groups and highlight the potential impact of genetic factors on adverse responses to ALL treatment. Precision medicine approaches tailored to the genetic peculiarities of indigenous populations emerge as imperative strategies for optimizing therapeutic efficacy and mitigating treatment-related toxicities in these communities.
Porosity and cement controlling the response of artificially cemented tailings under hydrostatic loading to high pressures
Authors: Consoli Nilo Cesar , de Azambuja Carvalho João Vítor , Wagner Alexia Cindy , Carvalho Inácio , de Sousa Silva João Paulo
Published: November 2024

Cemented tailings find various applications in mining, such as open-pit and underground backfill, dam decommissioning and filtered tailings stacking. This research investigates the compression behaviour of iron ore tailings (IOT) mixed with distinct amounts of Portland cement and compacted in different conditions through isotropic compression, pulse velocity, and unconfined compression tests. The results show the adequacy of the porosity/cement index (η/Civ) in predicting elastic and plastic characteristics of compacted filtered IOT - Portland cement blends, an original correlation that has not been reported by previous work. This index is useful in selecting the cement content and target density for essential parameters required to design cemented IOT stacks. Besides, both cement addition and compaction have promoted the tailings isotropisation (conversion of an anisotropic system to an isotropic one). The evolution of the Post-Yield Compression Line (PYCL) with cementation is shown. Finally, it is demonstrated that distinct initial (after compaction) porosities of uncemented specimens reach a unique PYCL after isotropic pressures above 100 MPa, and cemented specimens do not reach a unique PYCL even at 120 MPa of isotropic pressures. The results underscore the requirement of rigorous compaction control in the field and offer a methodology for the dosage and technological control of artificially cemented tailings.
Modeling early phenotypes of Parkinson’s disease by age-induced midbrain-striatum assembloids
Authors: Barmpa Kyriaki , Saraiva Claudia , Lopez-Pigozzi Diego , Gomez-Giro Gemma , Gabassi Elisa , Spitz Sarah , Brandauer Konstanze , Rodriguez Gatica Juan E. , Antony Paul , Robertson Graham , Sabahi-Kaviani Rahman , Bellapianta Alessandro , Papastefanaki Florentia , Luttge Regina , Kubitscheck Ulrich , Salti Ahmad , Ertl Peter , Bortolozzi Mario , Matsas Rebecca , Edenhofer Frank , Schwamborn Jens C.
Published: November 2024

Parkinson’s disease, an aging-associated neurodegenerative disorder, is characterised by nigrostriatal pathway dysfunction caused by the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the midbrain. Human in vitro models are enabling the study of the dopaminergic neurons’ loss, but not the dysregulation within the dopaminergic network in the nigrostriatal pathway. Additionally, these models do not incorporate aging characteristics which potentially contribute to the development of Parkinson’s disease. Here we present a nigrostriatal pathway model based on midbrain-striatum assembloids with inducible aging. We show that these assembloids can develop characteristics of the nigrostriatal connectivity, with catecholamine release from the midbrain to the striatum and synapse formation between midbrain and striatal neurons. Moreover, Progerin-overexpressing assembloids acquire aging traits that lead to early neurodegenerative phenotypes. This model shall help to reveal the contribution of aging as well as nigrostriatal connectivity to the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease.
Arctic plant-fungus interaction networks show major rewiring with environmental variation
Authors: Parisy Bastien , Schmidt Niels M. , Cirtwill Alyssa R. , Villa-Galaviz Edith , Tiusanen Mikko , Klütsch Cornelya F. C. , Aspholm Paul E. , Raundrup Katrine , Vesterinen Eero J. , Wirta Helena , Roslin Tomas
Published: November 2024

Global environmental change may lead to changes in community structure and in species interactions, ultimately changing ecosystem functioning. Focusing on spatial variation in fungus–plant interactions across the rapidly changing Arctic, we quantified variation in the identity of interaction partners. We then related interaction turnover to variation in the bioclimatic environment by combining network analyses with general dissimilarity modelling. Overall, we found species associations to be highly plastic, with major rewiring among interaction partners across variable environmental conditions. Of this turnover, a major part was attributed to specific environmental properties which are likely to change with progressing climate change. Our findings suggest that the current structure of plant-root associated interactions may be severely altered by rapidly advancing global warming. Nonetheless, flexibility in partner choice may contribute to the resilience of the system.
Application of machine learning algorithms to identify serological predictors of COVID-19 severity and outcomes
Authors: Dhakal Santosh , Yin Anna , Escarra-Senmarti Marta , Demko Zoe O. , Pisanic Nora , Johnston Trevor S. , Trejo-Zambrano Maria Isabel , Kruczynski Kate , Lee John S. , Hardick Justin P. , Shea Patrick , Shapiro Janna R. , Park Han-Sol , Parish Maclaine A. , Caputo Christopher , Ganesan Abhinaya , Mullapudi Sarika K. , Gould Stephen J. , Betenbaugh Michael J. , Pekosz Andrew , Heaney Christopher D. , Antar Annukka A. R. , Manabe Yukari C. , Cox Andrea L. , Karaba Andrew H. , Andrade Felipe , Zeger Scott L. , Klein Sabra L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Critically ill hospitalized patients with COVID-19 have greater antibody titers than those with mild to moderate illness, but their association with recovery or death from COVID-19 has not been characterized.

Methods

In a cohort study of 178 COVID-19 patients, 73 non-hospitalized and 105 hospitalized patients, mucosal swabs and plasma samples were collected at hospital enrollment and up to 3 months post-enrollment (MPE) to measure virus RNA, cytokines/chemokines, binding antibodies, ACE2 binding inhibition, and Fc effector antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2. The association of demographic variables and more than 20 serological antibody measures with intubation or death due to COVID-19 was determined using machine learning algorithms.

Results

Predictive models reveal that IgG binding and ACE2 binding inhibition responses at 1 MPE are positively and anti-Spike antibody-mediated complement activation at enrollment is negatively associated with an increased probability of intubation or death from COVID-19 within 3 MPE.

Conclusions

At enrollment, serological antibody measures are more predictive than demographic variables of subsequent intubation or death among hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
Impact of different soil solutions on the stability and photocatalytic activity of commercial zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Solymos Karolina , Kanász Eszter , Ágoston Áron , Gyulavári Tamás , Pálffy Benjámin , Szamosvölgyi Ákos , Kukovecz Ákos , Kónya Zoltán , Pap Zsolt
Published: November 2024

Regardless of changes of ZnO NPs after interaction with the soil solutions, it remains active!
Complete degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenol in a sequential sulfidated nanoscale zero-valent iron/peroxydisulfate system: dechlorination, mineralization and mechanism
Authors: Pi Zhoujie , Zhou Puyu , Luo Kun , He Li , Chen Shengjie , Wang Zhu , Zhang Shanshan , Li Xiaoming , Yang Qi
Published: November 2024

The sequential S-nZVI/PDS process is a very promising and efficient approach for the complete mineralization of 2,4-DCP.
Unveiling the neuroprotective impact of virgin olive oil ingestion via the microbiota–gut–brain axis
Authors: Barrera-Chamorro Luna , Fernandez-Prior Africa , Claro-Cala Carmen M. , del Rio-Vazquez Jose L. , Rivero-Pino Fernando , Montserrat-de la Paz Sergio
Published: November 2024

The gut–brain axis, a complex system of two-way communication between both organs, plays a key role in overall health.
Design and synthesis of tetralactam macrocycle-based porous organic polymers (POPs): application in the recovery of gold from e-waste
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Anjum Gulshan , Moorthy Jarugu Narasimha
Published: November 2024

Tetralactam macrocycles that selectively bind gold ions have been exploited to construct porous organic polymers (POPs) and the capabilities of the latter for gold adsorption are demonstrated.
Magnetoresistance effect of pyridine-capped s-indacene-based conjugated radicals
Authors: Wei Xuyang , Li Dong , Liu Xitong , Zhang Weifeng , Li Hao , Yang Shuai , Luo Hao , Yu Gui
Published: November 2024

A stable radical, 5,7-dimesityl-s-indaceno[1,2-b:7,6-b′]dipyridine, exhibited a temperature-sensitive interface magnetoresistance phenomenon in its single ferromagnetic device.
Rapid 3D printing of unlayered, tough epoxy–alcohol resins with late gel points via dual-color curing technology
Authors: Mayer Florian , Laa Dominik , Koch Thomas , Stampfl Jürgen , Liska Robert , Ehrmann Katharina
Published: November 2024

Herein, printing a wide-meshed methacrylate matrix-assisted epoxide network utilizing alcohol chain transfer in a semi-orthogonal curing leads to tough interpenetrating networks much faster, at lower intensities and without layer artefacts.
Enhancing white light-emitting diode performance with an ultra-wide spectrum ZnS:Mn-CDs@SiO2 dual core@shell composite
Authors: Qiu Haijiang , Yang Song , Li Min , Chen Haixin , Zhang Yongqi , Chen Xin , Zheng Yuanhui
Published: November 2024

This study presents a SiO2-encapsulated white phosphor combining III-V nanocrystals and carbon dots. It offers broad-spectrum emission, uniform luminescence, and resolves reabsorption and phase issues, making it ideal for WLED applications.
Integrating multiple emission centers for photoluminescence regulation in copper–antimony/bismuth halides
Authors: Ablez Abdusalam , Lin Hao-Wei , Zhang Sheng-Mao , Chen Guo-Yang , Luo Jia-Hua , Du Ke-Zhao , Wang Ze-Ping , Huang Xiao-Ying
Published: November 2024

Inserting a CuBr unit into monometallic halides results in heterometallic halides with dual emissions originating from the complex cation and anion unit, which enables wide modulation of emission color and low temperature optical sensing.
Application and development of SERS technology in detection of VOC gases
Authors: Meng Xiangyu , Wang Yuening , Song Xiaoyu , Liu Yue , Xie Yujiao , Xu Lei , Yu Jian , Qiu Lin , Wang Xiaotian , Lin Jie
Published: November 2024

This review summarizes the application of SERS technology in the detection of VOCs, including the development of SERS substrates, remote environmental monitoring and the analysis of exhaled breath gases.
Highly regioselective oxidative Csp2–H amination for indolosesquiterpene alkaloids: total synthesis of (+)-dioridamycin
Authors: Nandi Rhituparna , Niyogi Sovan , Kundu Sourav , Mondal Ayan , Roy Nanda Kishore , Bisai Alakesh
Published: November 2024

The first total synthesis of dioridamycin methyl ester (1a) has been achieved via the strategic use of hypervalent iodine(iii) to forge intramolecular cross-amination leading to the indolosesquiterpenoid pentacyclic core under mild and atom-economical conditions.
Modular assembly of chiral multisubstituted tetrahydropyrans through a cascade asymmetric aldehyde allylboration/oxa-cyclization by a chiral phosphoric acid
Authors: Wang Yu-Hao , He Bo-Jun , Kalita Subarna Jyoti , Zhao Zhen-Ni , Li Yi-Chao , Zhang De-Hua , Yi Zi-Qi , Schneider Uwe , Huang Yi-Yong
Published: November 2024

Two cascade processes based on asymmetric aldehyde allylboration by a chiral phosphoric acid catalyst have been established for creating chiral multisubstituted tetrahydropyrans.
Investigation of the linear and nonlinear optical properties in the crystalline phase of a pyrimidine derivative—a potential nonlinear optical material: analysis of its structure, reactivity, and docking studies
Authors: Potla Krishna Murthy , Asiri Yahya I , Rani Nannapaneni Usha , Osório Francisco A. P. , Valverde Clodoaldo , Raja Murugesan , Armaković Sanja J. , Armaković Stevan
Published: November 2024

In this study, we examined the nonlinear optical properties of a pyrimidine derivative in its crystalline phase using an iterative electrostatic method (IEM) to explore its potential applications in developing new nonlinear optical materials.
Preparation and characterization of acetylated starch/papain composites
Authors: Boonkerd Sasitorn , Hao Hongxun , Wantha Lek
Published: November 2024

Acetylated cassava starch/papain composites were prepared by a stepwise antisolvent precipitation method.
Calcium glyceroxide promoted esterification of oleic acid with glycerol and its mathematical modelling
Authors: Zapravdina Daria M. , Popov Yuri V. , Zotov Yuri L. , Sapunov Valentin N.
Published: November 2024

A mathematical model of fatty acid esterification with glycerol catalyzed by Ca glyceroxide was developed.
Quantitative features of osteo-bioactive Ti surfaces at the atomic/molecular level
Authors: Luo Fengxiong , Li Dongxuan , Yang Yu , Liu Jiajun , Mao Ruiqi , Huang Yawen , Lu Jian , Zhu Xiangdong , Wang Kefeng , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong
Published: November 2024

Quantitative features of osteo-bioactive Ti surfaces at the atomic/molecular level.
Metric‐based pill recognition with the help of textual and visual cues
Authors: Rádli Richárd , Vörösházi Zsolt , Czúni László
Published: November 2024

Pill image recognition by machine vision can reduce the risk of taking the wrong medications, a severe healthcare problem. Automated dispensing machines or home applications both need reliable image processing techniques to compete with the problem of changing viewing conditions, large number of classes, and the similarity in pill appearance. The problem is attacked with a multi‐stream, two‐phase metric embedding neural model. To enhance the metric learning procedure, dynamic margin setting is introduced into the loss function. Moreover, it is shown that besides the visual features of drug samples, even free text of drug leaflets (processed with a natural language model) can be used to set the value of the margin in the triplet loss and thus increase the recognition accuracy of testing. Thus, besides using the conventional metric learning approach, the given discriminating features can be explicitly injected into the metric model using the NLP of the free text of pill leaflets or descriptors of images of selected pills. The performance on two datasets is analysed and a 1.6% (two‐sided) and 2.89% (one‐sided) increase in Top‐1 accuracy on the CURE dataset is reported compared to existing best results. The inference time on CPU and GPU makes the proposed model suitable for different kinds of applications in medical pill verification; moreover, the approach applies to other areas of object recognition where few‐shot problems arise. The proposed high‐level feature injection method (into a low‐level metric learning model) can also be exploited in other cases, where class features can be well described with textual or visual cues.
Enhanced skill optimization algorithm: Solution to the stochastic reactive power dispatch framework with optimal inclusion of renewable resources using large‐scale network
Authors: Khan Noor Habib , Wang Yong , Jamal Raheela , Iqbal Sheeraz , Ebeed Mohamed , Ghadi Yazeed Yasin , Elbarbary Z. M. S.
Published: November 2024

Optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) is taken as a vital problem related to electric power networks for economic and control operations. Nowadays, thermal generators are no longer utilized and renewable resources (RERs) have been integrated owing to their marvellous benefits. The integration of RERs into power networks is considered as a strenuous imposition due to their uncertainties. The objective is to determine the placement of four wind and four PV units into large‐scale 118‐bus network to reduce expected power losses. The normal, lognormal, and Weibull distributions are utilized to model system uncertainties, while Monte‐Carlo simulation and reduction‐based approaches are utilized to generate the novel set of optimal scenarios. To avoid stagnation problems in skilled optimization algorithm (SOA), three strategies such as fitness‐distance balance selection, mutation, and gorilla troops‐based approaches are utilized to improve overall strength of SOA. Effectiveness of ESOA is proved via statistical and non‐parametric analysis using benchmark functions, the results are further compared with other optimization techniques. The proposed ESOA is also used to resolve the deterministic and stochastic ORPD frameworks to reduce power losses and expected power losses. By incorporation of RERs into the stochastic ORPD framework can saved the expected power losses around 24.01%.
Inference and analysis of cell‐cell communication of non‐myeloid circulating cells in late sepsis based on single‐cell RNA‐seq
Authors: Tao Yanyan , Li Miaomiao , Liu Cheng
Published: November 2024

Sepsis is a severe systemic inflammatory syndrome triggered by infection and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in intensive care units (ICUs). Immune dysfunction is a hallmark of sepsis. In this study, the authors investigated cell‐cell communication among lymphoid‐derived leucocytes using single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms in late‐stage sepsis. The authors’ findings revealed that both the number and strength of cellular interactions were elevated in septic patients compared to healthy individuals, with several pathways showing significant alterations, particularly in conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). Notably, pathways such as CD6‐ALCAM were more activated in sepsis, potentially due to T cell suppression. This study offers new insights into the mechanisms of immunosuppression and provides potential avenues for clinical intervention in sepsis.
The GAPS programme at TNG
Authors: Naponiello L. , Bonomo A. S. , Mancini L. , Steinmeyer M.-L. , Biazzo K. , Polychroni D. , Dorn C. , Turrini D. , Lanza A. F. , Sozzetti A. , Desidera S. , Damasso M. , Collins K. A. , Carleo I. , Collins K. I. , Colombo S. , D’Arpa M. C. , Dumusque X. , González M. , Guilluy G. , Lorenzi V. , Mantovan G. , Nardiello D. , Pinamonti M. , Schwarz R.P. , Singh V. , Watkins C. N. , Zingales T.
Published: November 2024

Context. Super-Earths and sub-Neptunes are the most common types of planets outside the Solar System and likely represent the link between terrestrial planets and gas giants. Characterizing their physical and orbital properties and studying their multiplicity are key steps in testing and understanding their formation, migration, and evolution.

Aims. We examined the star BD+00 444 (GJ 105.5, TOI-2443; V = 9.5 mag; d = 23.9 pc) in depth, with the aim of characterizing and confirming the planetary nature of its small companion, the planet candidate TOI-2443.01, which was discovered by the TESS space telescope and subsequently validated by a follow-up statistical study.

Methods. We monitored BD+00 444 with the HARPS-N spectrograph for 1.5 years to search for planet-induced radial-velocity (RV) variations, and then analyzed the RV measurements jointly with TESS and ground-based photometry.

Results. We determined that the host is a quiet K5 V star with a radius of R* = 0.631−0.014+0.013 R⊕ and a mass of M* = 0.642−0.025+0.026 M⊙. We revealed that the sub-Neptune BD+00 444 b has a radius of Rb = 2.36 ± 0.05 R⊕, a mass of Mb = 4.8 ± 1.1 M⊕, and consequently a rather low-density value of ρb = 2.00−0.45+0.49 g cm−3, which makes it compatible with both an Earth-like rocky interior with a thin H-He atmosphere and a half-rocky, half-water composition with a small amount of H-He. With an orbital period of about 15.67 days and an equilibrium temperature of about 519 K, BD+00 444 b has an estimated transmission spectroscopy metric (TSM) of 159−31+46, which makes it ideal for atmospheric follow-up with the James Webb Space Telescope. Notably, it is the second most eccentric inner transiting planet among those with well-determined eccentricities, with e = 0.302−0.035+0.051, and a mass of below 20 M⊕. We estimated that tidal forces from the host star affect both the rotation and eccentricity of planet b, and strong tidal dissipation may signal intense volcanic activity. Furthermore, our analysis suggests the presence of a sub-Neptune-mass planet candidate, BD+00 444 c, which would have an orbital period of Pc = 96.6 ± 1.4 days and a minimum mass of Mc sin i = 9.3−2.0+1.8 M⊕. With an equilibrium temperature of about 283 K, BD+00 444 c is inside the habitable zone; however, confirmation of this candidate would require further observations and stronger statistical evidence. We explored the formation and migration of both planets by means of population synthesis models, which reveal that both planets started their formation beyond the water snowline during the earliest phases of the life of their protoplanetary disk.
A parametric optimal control problem applied to daily irrigation
Authors: Lemos-Paião Ana P. , Lopes Sofia O. , de Pinho M. D. R.
Published: November 2024

We conduct sensitivity analysis of an optimal control problem applied to agricultural irrigation. The aim is to minimize the square of the amount of irrigation water while ensuring the health grow of the crop. A crucial parameter of our model is the percentage of water loss due to deep percolation, β, a parameter hard to estimate and subject to perturbations. Thus, our problem is a parametric state constrained optimal control problem with a L2 cost. Our goal is to study how perturbations of β affect the optimal solutions of our problem using sensitivity analysis of our problem using sensitivity analysis.

To solve numerically our optimal control problem we use the direct method, transcribing the problem into a non-linear programming problem. We show how sensitivity analysis applied to the non-linear programming problem provides information on the variation of optimal solutions of the original problem in terms of β. Valid approximations of optimal solution and cost, provided by sensitivity analysis, are computed for values of β within of a certain neighbourhood. Remarkably, we show that for all β in such neighbourhood, the irrigation period is kept constant. Only the flow rate of irrigation water changes.
Afternoon kick-off, evening kick-off, or night kick-off in the first German Bundesliga – A possible Injury risk factor?
Authors: Schiffner Erik , Schoeps Dominique , Koukos Christos , Lakomek Felix , Windolf Joachim , Latz David
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the impact of kick-off time on the risk of injury for professional soccer players in the first German Bundesliga. It was hypothesized that late kick-off times would have a negative effect on muscle and ligament injuries to the ankle and knee. Methods: Kick-off times and injury data were collected over 5 consecutive seasons (1530 matches; 2014–2019) from two media-based registries (transfermarkt.de® und kicker.de®). The kick-off times were assorted into three groups: Afternoon kick-off between prior to 3:30 pm (988 matches), evening kick-off between 5:30 to 6:30 pm (303 matches), and night kick-off after 8 pm (239 matches). Results: A total of 1327 match injuries were recorded over 5 seasons in 510 different male elite soccer players. The injuries affected muscles in 32.1%, ankle ligaments in 7.8%, and knee ligaments in 5.6%. There was no significant difference in injury rates when comparing different kick-off time groups (p > 0.05), however, the mean of time attributed to muscle and ankle ligament injuries suffered in games with a late kick-off time was significantly longer (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study shows that there is no significant (p > 0.05) association between three different kick-off time groups and injury risk in the first German Bundesliga. However, significant (p < 0.05) differences in the lay-off times attributed to muscle and ankle ligament injuries differed with different kick-off times assorted into the three groups. Reasons for this observation could be found in the circadian muscle rhythms and muscle fatigue.
Serum Homocysteine and Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence after Catheter
Ablation: A Meta-Analysis of 11 Cohort Studies Involving 2147
Patients
Authors: Li Biao , Zeng Fang , Zhao Qiang
Published: November 2024

The relationship between serum homocysteine (Hcy) levels and atrial fibrillation
(AF) recurrence following catheter ablation remains unclear. This meta-analysis
aims to investigate this association. Comprehensive searches in PubMed, Web of
Science, Embase, Wanfang, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)
databases identified relevant studies published up to May 25, 2024. Cohort
studies that measured pre-ablation serum Hcy levels and reported AF recurrence
post-ablation were included. Data were analyzed using random-effects models by
incorporating the potential influence of heterogeneity, with odds ratios (ORs)
and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated for the association between serum
Hcy levels and AF recurrence. Eleven retrospective cohort studies involving 2147
patients with AF who underwent catheter ablation were analyzed. Higher
pre-ablation serum Hcy levels were associated with an increased risk of AF
recurrence (OR for per 1 μmol/l increment of Hcy: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.17 to 1.28,
p<0.001; I²=0%). Additionally, studies that categorized Hcy levels also found
a higher risk of AF recurrence in patients with elevated Hcy (OR for patients
with a high versus a low serum Hcy: 2.75, 95% CI: 2.02 to 3.75, p <0.001;
I²=0%). Funnel plots and Egger’s regression test indicated low risks of
publication bias. In conclusions, elevated pre-ablation serum Hcy levels are
significantly associated with an increased risk of AF recurrence post-catheter
ablation. These findings suggest that Hcy could be a valuable biomarker for
predicting AF recurrence and may inform pre-ablation risk stratification.
Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these results.
Utility of cholangioscopy in patients with surgically altered anatomy after percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage
Authors: Dalal Ankit , Kamat Nagesh , Patil Gaurav , Vadgaonkar Amol , Parekh Sanil , Vora Sehajad , Maydeo Amit
Published: November 2024

Surgical therapy that alters the biliary anatomy makes endoscopic access to the biliary system difficult. These surgeries promote cholestasis, calculi development and lead to biliary stricture. Stricture resolution and removal of intrahepatic bile duct stones remain challenging.

This was a retrospective analysis of prospective data from patients with altered surgical anatomy with intrahepatic bile duct stones/strictures. Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) was attempted, followed by transhepatic SpyGlass cholangioscopy for stricture or removal of intrahepatic bile duct stones. The number of sessions, stricture dilatation, and complications were noted. A cholangiogram revealing a clear duct was a technical success, and stricture resolution was considered a clinical success. Complete ductal clearance was clinical success in those with stones. Patients with follow-up of a minimum of 6 months were included.

Twenty-four patients, 16 of whom were male (66.7%), median age 41.5 years (interquartile range [IQR] 38.2–49) successfully underwent PTBD. The most common indication was biliary stricture in 13 (54.2%), followed by intrahepatic stones in six (25%) and stones with strictures in five patients (20.8%). Most patients had undergone Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (22; 91.7%), and the level of bile duct obstruction was hilum in 20 (83.3%). The median (IQR) total bilirubin levels reduced from 6.6 (5.1–8.3) to 1.8 mg/dL (1.2–2.8) after PTBD; P <0.001. The technical success was 90.9% after a median (IQR) number of two (1.7–2) SpyGlass sessions; clinical success was 88.9% after a median of three (3–4) SpyGlass sessions. Abdominal pain (8.3%) and cholangitis (12.5%) were the complications after cholangioscopy. The median (IQR) follow-up duration was 7 months (6–8).

SpyGlass cholangioscopy, although challenging, is a safe option for intrahepatic stones and strictures with excellent short-term outcomes and minimal complications.
Assessment of the Prospective Protection of Quercetin on Irradiated Submandibular Salivary Gland in Mice
Authors: Radi Nadia A. , Habba Doaa A. , Hallool Seham I. , Abd Elsamia Hanaa M.
Published: November 2024

Objectives This study aimed to assess the prospective protection of quercetin on irradiated submandibular salivary gland in mice histologically and immunohistochemically.

Material and Methods Four groups of male mice were included in the study. Group Ӏ included 10 mice that will not be subjected to gamma radiation, group ӀӀ included 10 mice that will receive quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight (BW) for 30 days, group ӀӀӀ included 10 irradiated mice that will receive a dose of only 15 Gy, and group IV included 10 irradiated mice that will be given quercetin 50 mg/kg BW for 30 days prior to radiotherapy.

Results The analysis of variance (ANOVA) test revealed that the difference between all groups was extremely statistically significant (p < 0.000). Turkey's post hoc test revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between groups I and II but both groups showed statistically significant differences with groups III and IV. Also, there were statistically significant differences between groups III and IV.

Conclusions Quercetin possesses the ability to protect against radiation-induced cellular damage and maintain tissue integrity, so it holds promise as a protective agent for salivary glands against radiation-induced damage. Quercetin has promising potential therapeutic benefits for individuals undergoing radiation therapy.
The benefits of Indigenous-led social science: a mindset for Arctic sustainability
Authors: Brooks Jeffrey J. , Renick Hillary E.
Published: November 2024

The Peoples of the Arctic and Arctic health and sustainability are highly interconnected and essentially one and the same. An appropriate path to a sustainable Arctic involves a shift away from individual learning and achieving toward community leadership and the betterment of society. This article draws upon mindset theory from Western psychology and Indigenous relational accountability to propose and outline a model for achieving sustainability in the Arctic. The geographic focus is the North American Arctic. The principles of the argument and the foundations of the model may apply across the Circumpolar North. The paper is a call to action for social scientists and policy makers in the Arctic to implement an Indigenous-led and self-determined social science. Empowering and supporting Indigenous leaders and scholars to direct and conduct autonomous social science research would inherently produce well-being and sustainability for Indigenous communities and regions. The arguments are supported by an inductive analysis of peer-reviewed literature, and the model is organized and illustrated using a schematic of concentric circles. The foundational elements of the model include: Indigenous sovereignty, Indigenous ontology, Indigenous models of sustainability, and Indigenous scholarship. Environmental scientists, resource managers, and policy makers are directed to better understand, accept, and support Indigenous science as a comprehensive and valid knowledge system; change how they use key terminology in research; rethink research roles; and amend processes and timelines for research development and funding. To achieve the desired outcomes for community well-being and Arctic sustainability, Arctic social scientists should seriously consider centering Indigenous science, especially in Indigenous communities.
Comprehensive characterization of gas dynamic virtual nozzles for
x-ray free-electron laser experiments
Authors: Karpos Konstantinos , Zaare Sahba , Manatou Dimitra , Alvarez Roberto C. , Krishnan Vivek , Ottmar Clint , Gilletti Jodi , Pableo Aian , Doppler Diandra , Ansari Adil , Nazari Reza , Ros Alexandra , Kirian Richard A.
Published: November 2024

We introduce a hardware–software system for rapidly characterizing liquid microjets for x-ray diffraction experiments. An open-source python-based software package allows for programmatic and automated data collection and analysis. We show how jet speed, length, and diameter are influenced by nozzle geometry, gas flow rate, liquid viscosity, and liquid flow rate. We introduce “jet instability” and “jet probability” metrics to help quantify the suitability of a given nozzle for x-ray diffraction experiments. Among our observations were pronounced improvements in jet stability and reliability when using asymmetric needle-tipped nozzles, which allowed for the production of microjects smaller than 250 nm in diameter, traveling faster than 120 m/s.
Noncollinear phase-matching of high harmonic generation in solids
Authors: Peterka Pavel , Trojánek František , Malý Petr , Kozák Martin
Published: November 2024

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a scheme allowing reaching noncollinear phase-matching of high harmonic generation in solids, which may potentially lead to an enhancement of the generation efficiency. The principle is based on high-order frequency mixing of two light waves with identical frequencies but different directions of wavevectors. In this process, Nth harmonic frequency is produced by frequency mixing of N + 1 photons from a wave with high amplitude of electric field and a single photon from a wave with low field amplitude, which are propagating noncollinearly in optically isotropic media. We experimentally verify the feasibility of this scheme by demonstrating phase-matched generation of third and fifth harmonic frequency in sapphire.
Geometrically engineered organoid units and their assembly for pre-construction of organ structures
Authors: Kadotani Ayaka , Hayase Gen , Yoshino Daisuke
Published: November 2024

Regenerative medicine is moving from the nascent to the transitional stage as researchers are actively engaged in creating mini-organs from pluripotent stem cells to construct artificial models of physiological and pathological conditions. Currently, mini-organs can express higher-order functions, but their size is limited to the order of a few millimeters. Therefore, one of the ultimate goals of regenerative medicine, “organ replication and transplantation with organoid,” remains a major obstacle. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology is expected to be an innovative breakthrough in this field, but various issues have been raised, such as cell damage, versatility of bioink, and printing time. In this study, we established a method for fabricating, connecting, and assembling organoid units of various shapes independent of cell type, extracellular matrix, and adhesive composition (unit construction method). We also fabricated kidney tissue-like structures using three types of parenchymal and interstitial cells that compose the human kidney and obtained findings suggesting the possibility of crosstalk between the units. This study mainly focuses on methods for reproducing the structure of organs, and there are still issues to be addressed in terms of the expression of their higher-order functions. We anticipate that engineering innovation based on this technique will bring us closer to the realization of highly efficient and rapid fabrication of full-scale organoids that can withstand organ transplantation.
Study on the mechanism of green power-carbon market intrinsic coupling and power sector trading strategies
Authors: Yang Shuxia , Wang Mengyu
Published: November 2024

The expansion of carbon market will pose new challenges to the construction of national unified large market and electric-carbon coupling. On the basis of explaining the coupling mechanism of green power and carbon market, this paper analyzes the game relationship and trading strategy between multiple trading entities under the background of carbon expansion. By establishing a multi-agent evolutionary game model, this paper explores the probability change of purchasing green electricity certificate (GEC) and carbon emission right (CET) of thermal power, cement and steel enterprises in the coupled market. The results show that the higher the penalty amount, the higher the probability of cement and steel enterprises to increase the purchase of CET, while the probability of thermal power enterprises to purchase GEC is lower. Compared with the potential income of other subjects, the potential income brought by thermal power's participation in the GEC market can improve the probability of thermal power purchasing GEC. If one party in the coupled market increases the price of CETs, at least one party will reduce the amount of CET purchased. In addition, the discussion found that: penalty differentiation is more conducive to fair market competition and development; From the perspective of emission reduction, timely adjustment of the price difference between CET price and GEC price will be more conducive to solving problems such as the contradiction between market supply and demand and the difficulty of coupling market integration. In short, the integration of the electric-carbon market and the degree of perfection of the market mechanism have an important impact on the equilibrium decision of multi-trading entities under the expansion of the carbon market.
Acoustic diffusion of a rotating composite elastic medium subjected to thermal source
Authors: Lotfy Khaled , Elshazly Ibrahim S. , Halouani Borhen , Ailawalia Praveen , El-Bary Alaa A.
Published: November 2024

This research is mainly concerned with understanding the propagation behavior of waves within complex elastic media, which leads to improving the properties of elastic materials to benefit from them practically. This research investigates the interaction between acoustic waves and thermal sources in a rotating elastic medium. The effect of the spread of the concentration of the substance through a chemical action is considered. The mathematical model was solved using the harmonic technique for waves in two dimensions to set the complete solutions of some basic physical quantities, such as temperature, displacement, and mechanical stress, as a linear solution in distance. Some appropriate boundary conditions were applied to the free surface to determine some unknown parameters. Linear solutions are represented graphically to discuss the propagation of waves for the dimensionless fundamental quantities under study. The results we obtained were discussed theoretically under the influence of some different parameters through two-dimensional graphs during some comparisons. To improve elastic material properties, specifically in their interaction with thermal sources and chemical actions within a rotating medium.