bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Machine learning and high-throughput computational guided development of high temperature oxidation-resisting Ni-Co-Cr-Al-Fe based high-entropy alloys
Authors: Hu SHANSHAN , Tan Xingru , Trehern William , Sundar Aditya , Wang Yi , San Saro , Lu Tianwei , Zhou Fan , Sun Ting , Zhang Youyuan , Wen Yuying , Liu Zhichao , Gao Michael 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Ni-Co-Cr-Al-Fe based High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have been demonstrated to possess exceptional oxidation resistance, rendering them promising candidates as bond coats to protect critical components in turbine power systems. However, with the conventional time-consuming alloy design approach, only a small fraction of Ni-Co-Cr-Al-Fe based HEAs, focusing on equiatomic compositions, has been explored to date. In this study, we developed an effective design framework with the aid of machine learning (ML) and high throughput computations, enabling the rapid exploration of high-temperature oxidation-resistant non-equiatomic HEAs. This innovative approach leverages ML techniques to swiftly select candidates with superior oxidation resistance within the expansive high-entropy composition landscape. Complemented by a thermodynamic-informed ranking-based selection process, several novel non-equiatomic Ni-Co-Cr-Al-Fe HEA candidates surpassing the oxidation resistance of the state-of-the-art bond coat material MCrAlY have been identified and further experimentally demonstrated. Our findings offer a pathway for the development of advanced bond coats in the realm of next-generation turbine engine technology.
snCED-seq: High-fidelity cryogenic enzymatic dissociation of nuclei for single-nucleus RNA-seq of FFPE tissues
Authors: Zhao Xiangwei , Guo Yunxia , Ma Junjie , Qi Ruicheng , Ma Xiaoying , Xu Jitao , Ye Kaiqiang , Huang Yan , Yang Xi , Wang Guang-Zhong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Profiling cellular heterogeneity in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues is key to characterizing clinical specimens for biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and drug responses. Recent advancements in single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) techniques tailored for FFPE tissues have demonstrated their feasibility. However, isolation of high-quality nuclei from FFPE tissue with current methods remains challenging due to RNA cross-linking. We, therefore, proposed a novel strategy for the preparation of high-fidelity nuclei from FFPE samples, cryogenic enzymatic dissociation (CED) method, and performed snRandom-seq (snCED-seq) for polyformaldehyde (PFA) -fixed and FFPE brains to verify its applicability. The method is compatible with both PFA-based and FFPE brains or other organs with less hands-on time and lower reagent costs, and produced 10 times more nuclei than the homogenate method, without secondary degradation of RNA, and maximized the retention of RNA molecules within nuclei. snCED-seq shows 1.5-2 times gene and UMI numbers per nucleus, higher gene detection sensitivity and RNA coverage, and a minor rate of mitochondrial and ribosomal genes, compared with the nuclei from traditional method. The correlation gene expression of nucleus from the post-fixed and the frozen sample can be up to 94 %, and the gene expression of our nuclei was more abundant. Moreover, we applied snCED-seq to cellular heterogeneity study of the specimen on Alzheimer's Disease (AD) to demonstrate a pilot application. Scarce Cajal Retzius cells in older mice were robustly detected in our data, and we successfully identified two subpopulations of disease-associated in astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes, respectively. Meanwhile, we found that most cell types are affected at the transcriptional level by AD pathology, and there is a disease susceptibility gene set that affects these cell types similarly. Our method provides powerful nuclei for snRNA-seq studies for FFPE specimens, and even helps to reveal multi-omics information of clinical samples.
Hemifusomes and Interacting Proteolipid Nanodroplets Mediate Multi-Vesicular Body Formation
Authors: Kachar Bechara , Tavakoli Amirrasoul , Hu Shiqiong , Ebrahim Seham 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The complex, pleiomorphic membrane structure of the vesicular components within the endolysosomal system has been appreciated through decades of classical electron microscopy. However, due to the heavy fixation and staining required in these approaches, in situ visualization of fragile intermediates between early endosomes, late endosomes and ultimately multivesicular bodies (MVBs), remains elusive, raising the likelihood that other structures may have also been overlooked. Here, using in situ cryo-electron tomography in four mammalian cell lines, we discover heterotypic hemifused vesicles that share an extended hemifusion diaphragm, associated with a 42nm proteolipid nanodroplet (PND). We term this previously undescribed vesicular organelle-complex, “hemifusome”. Hemifusomes make up approximately 10% of the organelle pool of the endolysosomal system, but do not participate directly in transferrin-mediated endocytosis. Hemifusomes exist in compound conformations and also contain intraluminal vesicles. Based on their range of morphologies, and the consistent presence of the PND at sites of compound hemifused vesicles, we propose that hemifusomes function as platforms for vesicular biogenesis mediated by the PND. These findings offer direct in situ evidence for a long-lived hemifusion diaphragm, and a new, ESCRT-independent model for the formation of late endosomes containing intraluminal vesicles and ultimately MVBs.
Integrating behavioral experimental findings into dynamical models to inform social change interventions
Authors: Mariani Manuel Sebastian , Tanase Radu , Algesheimer René 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Addressing global challenges – from public health to climate change – often involves stimulating the large-scale adoption of new products or behaviors. Research traditions that focus on individual decision making suggest that achieving this objective requires better identifying the drivers of individual adoption choices. On the other hand, computational approaches rooted in complexity science focus on maximizing the propagation of a given product or behavior throughout social networks of interconnected adopters. The integration of these two perspectives – although advocated by several research communities – has remained elusive so far. Here we show how achieving this integration could inform seeding policies to facilitate the large-scale adoption of a given behavior or product. Drawing on complex contagion and discrete choice theories, we propose a method to estimate individual-level thresholds to adoption, and validate its predictive power in two choice experiments. By integrating the estimated thresholds into computational simulations, we show that state-of- the-art seeding methods for social influence maximization might be suboptimal if they neglect individual-level behavioral drivers, which can be corrected through the proposed experimental method.
Prophylaxis against healthcare-associated infections by non- selective beta-blockers: evidence from large animal experiments and hospital discharge outcomes
Authors: Occhinegro Alessandra , Ventrella Domenico , Rosa Simona , Alberti Luca , Amici Roberto , Cerri Matteo , Hitrec Timna , Tupone Domenico , Cappellini Alessandra , Ratti Stefano , Elmi Alberto , Zannoni Augusta , Felici Silvia , Golinelli Davide , Luppi Marco , Lankadeva Yugeesh R , May Clive N , McAllen Robin , McKinley Michael , Passaglia Patricia , Piscitiello Emiliana , Taddei Ludovico , Giannella Maddalena , Viale Pierluigi , Bacci Maria Laura , Rucci Paola , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Martelli Davide 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose significant risks, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and costs, exacerbated by multi-drug-resistant microorganisms. This study aimed to evaluate pharmacological prophylaxis targeting sympathetic reflex control of immunity to mitigate systemic infections, offering a novel approach to combating HAIs. The study included animal experiments and a retrospective analysis of orthopedic surgery patients in Romagna, Italy. Young female pigs were intravenously inoculated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and divided into two groups: propranolol-treated (non-selective β-blocker; 3mg/kg; 3x/day orally) and vehicle-treated, starting two days before infection. Parameters such as bacteraemia, serum cytokines, biochemical profile, blood count, lactate, glycemia, and flow cytometry were assessed. Additionally, a retrospective analysis of 92,649 orthopedic surgery hospitalizations (2017–2022) examined the effects of non-selective and selective β1-blockers on HAIs development using conditional logistic regression. Propranolol-treated pigs exhibited a disinhibited immune response to systemic infection, clearing circulating bacteria much earlier than vehicle-treated animals. The retrospective analysis showed that patients on non-selective beta-blockers had a 71.7% reduced risk of developing HAIs, while those on selective β1-blockers had an 18% higher risk. These findings suggest that targeting sympathetic reflex control of immunity via pharmacological prophylaxis may reduce HAIs in surgical patients.
A Comparative Study of PI Controller Performance in Simulated and Real-World Interplanetary Rover Actuator Systems
Authors: Cutinho Vevina Shreya , R. Navneeth S. , K. Swathi Prasad B. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive study on the application of Proportional-Integral (PI) controller for regulating the output speed of a motor employed in interplanetary rovers, making use of an Arduino UNO micro controller which serves as the PI controller and sensor interface for the experimental setup. The research provides insight on controller performance and the importance of accurate parameter estimation in modelling actuators for interplanetary rovers dealing with extreme terrain disturbances. The investigation involves experimental data obtained from the motor encoder, which is contrasted with a simulated model created in Simulink. The model is established utilizing Parameter Estimation Optimization Technique to satisfy the physical constraints and consistency of the simulation with the physical system. The comparative analysis focuses on the time response characteristics of both the simulated and experimental data when subjected to a step input. To enhance controller performance, the motor is subjected to PID tuning utilizing the trial-and-error method. Through this study, the ideal values of proportional and integral gains were found to be 0.5 and 2 respectively. With the obtained values of controller parameters, the actuator responds with an overshoot of 4.41% and a settling time of 1.35s. The experimental and simulated responses show very close agreement with each other, thus validating the parameters estimated through optimization. The response obtained with the implementation of a PI Controller shows great improvement over the response obtained in the absence of the PI controller, demonstrating the importance of implementing a PI controller in interplanetary applications.
DPSIR-Based Resilience Analysis of Tibetan Villages in Western Sichuan: A Case Study
Authors: Fan Ding , Yu siwei , Maliki Nor Zarifah Binti , Yang Jie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study examines the resilience and adaptability of Tibetan villages in western Sichuan by integrating the Social-Ecological Systems (SES) theory with the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework. Data from 2015 and 2022, collected through field surveys, participatory action research, and advanced modeling, reveal significant variability in village resilience. Shenzuo and Moluo villages exhibit the highest adaptive capacity, driven by effective economic development and resource management. Kegeyi and Minzu villages face environmental and socio-economic challenges, requiring targeted interventions. Xisuo excels in resource management but needs enhanced socio-economic resilience, while Jiangba requires better resource management and community engagement. The study offers practical recommendations for policymakers to diversify economies, upgrade infrastructure, and promote sustainable agriculture, ensuring long-term resilience in Tibetan villages.
The Efficacy of Egyptian Isolate of Beauveria bassiana Against Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) Olivier (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): Mortality Rates, Biochemical Responses, and Enzymatic Activity
Authors: ATWA ATWA , Adel Hala , El-Aty Heba Abd , Nada Maha 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Red palm weevil (RPW) larvae, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), were evaluated for susceptibility to an Egyptian isolate of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana. The results showed that R. ferrugineus larvae were more susceptible to B. bassiana at the 5th and 10th instars, respectively. A concentration of 10⁸ spores/ml of B. bassiana led to a higher mortality rate, with LT50 and LT90 values of 5.947 and 14.59 days, respectively. However, resistance ratios for concentrations of 10⁷ and 10⁸ spores/ ml were 1.80 and 1.32 times higher in the 10th instar compared to the 5th instar larvae, indicating lower susceptibility. Biochemically, after treatment with B. bassiana, significant changes in total protein and carbohydrate activity were observed in both larval stages. After 96 hours, GST activity increased significantly compared to the control. The effects of B. bassiana on alpha esterase and Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) enzymes varied by concentration and duration. Alpha esterase activity slightly decreased at 10⁸ spores/ ml after 48 hours but was not statistically significant after 96 hours. Conversely, at 10⁷ spores/ ml, alpha esterase decreased after 48 hours but increased after 96 hours. GST activity increased at 10⁸ spores/ ml after 48 and 96 hours and rose significantly at 10⁷ spores/ ml after 48 hours, followed by a decline after 96 hours. These findings suggest that B. bassiana could be used as an effective control agent against R. ferrugineus.
Impacts of Sustainable Logistics in Urban and Rural Areas: A Delphi Study
Authors: Heumann Maximilian , Bäßmann Felix N. , Staritz Johannes , Bienzeisler Lasse , Wage Oskar , Breitner Michael H. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

With the growth of urban populations and the centralization of rural supply, e-commerce is booming and the need for innovative logistics solutions is increasing accordingly, challenging the traditional paradigms of goods delivery in different environmental contexts. We aim to unravel the growing complexity of economic and environmental impacts of logistics scenarios to support strategic decision-making for efficient and sustainable logistics planning. We employ a Delphi study to dissect and assess thirteen logistics scenarios across urban and rural landscapes. Engaging four panels of experts from public administration, academia, consultancy, and NGOs, we analyze the economic efficiency, sustainability, and feasibility of logistics scenarios. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers and urban planners, and strategic guidance for logistics companies. By categorizing scenarios as either "Sustainable Business Opportunities" or "Challenging Frontiers," we contribute to understanding their viability in different settings. This categorization serves as a tool for stakeholders to prioritize and adapt logistics strategies focusing on environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.
Circulating miR-29c, miR-195, and miR-486 are objective indicators to determine the moderate intensity of resistance exercise
Authors: Takamura Daisuke , Iwata Kentaro , Inoue Shota , Hatakeyama Junpei , Moriyama Hideki 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Moderate exercise is important for health; however, individuals differ in moderate intensity and it is difficult to identify. The purpose of this study was to identify new objective indicators to determine effective exercise intensity.
Methods
After the mice were exercised in effective intensity, microarray analysis of circulating microRNA expression was conducted to identify the candidates of objective indicators to determine effective exercise intensity. Then, we assessed if these microRNAs were altered after aerobic or resistance exercises in human using quantitative real-time PCR. Twelve healthy males were randomly assigned to 2 groups: low-intensity exercise group (LI group) or high-intensity exercise group (HI group) and undertook 4 weeks of exercise program.
Results
As a result of microarray analysis, 188 microRNAs were changed after aerobic exercise, and 167 microRNAs were changed after resistance exercise. Combined with some published reports, we selected miR-29c, miR-23b, miR-222, miR-195, miR-126, miR-133a, and miR-486 as the candidates of biomarkers to determine the effective exercise intensity. In human study, physical performance was improved after resistance exercise only in HI group. Of these microRNAs, miR-29c, miR-195, and miR-486 were increased immediately after resistance exercise only in HI group. Fold change of miR-486 correlated with changes in knee extensor strength (r = 0.744, P = 0.005).
Conclusion
Resistance exercise at the effective intensity upregulated the expression of miR-29c, miR-195, and miR-486. These microRNAs may serve as objective indicators to determine the intensity of resistance exercise. Among them, miR-486 may aid in predicting the resistance exercise response
Exploring the Acceptability and Impact of Group Antenatal Care: A Qualitative Study Among Women in Selected Health Facilities in Burkina Faso
Authors: Dao Blami , Ouedraogo Yvette , Mhlanga Maxwell , Kone Andre 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Antenatal Care (ANC) models have evolved to increase maternal and child health service utilization, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Recently, group antenatal care (G-ANC), where cohorts of pregnant women with similar gestational ages are followed throughout pregnancy, has shown promise in enhancing care utilization, patient satisfaction, and reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. However, the acceptability of G-ANC in Burkina Faso has not been assessed. This qualitative study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of G-ANC by pregnant women at six pilot sites in Burkina Faso and identify challenges for scaling up. We conducted six Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 58 women who attended at least one G-ANC session. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and discussions were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires. Thematic analysis was performed using N-VIVO software. Six themes emerged: overall experience, benefits and challenges of G-ANC, relationships with healthcare workers and partners, changes introduced by G-ANC, and suggestions for improvement. Women expressed high satisfaction with G-ANC, citing skill development and improved relationships as key benefits. Challenges included long session durations and inadequate space. A major recommendation was to hold sessions on weekends to allow partner participation. In conclusion, G-ANC is highly accepted by women in Burkina Faso. This low-cost, high-impact initiative holds potential for broader implementation in similar settings.
Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation modulates microbial community composition in long-term lead-contaminated soil
Authors: Chen Minjie , Zheng Chunli , Huang Xiaogang , Li Yafei , Wang Zhe , Xu Xin , Duan Yaoting 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Microbial induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is known as a significant process for remediating heavy metals contaminated environment. At present, we have studied the effects of microbe induced carbonate precipitation on soil physical structure after remediation of lead (Pb) contamination. However, in the process of soil remediation, the addition of exogenous substances and bacterial solution to the structure of soil bacterial community and the relationship between soil fungi and non-biological factors remains unclear. In this study, a new type of urea decomposing bacteria was isolated and identified as Bacillus pasteurii. Its performances for immobilizing Pb in soil were systematically discussed at different treatment conditions. Results showed that effects of different biological treatments on basic physical and chemical properties of soil. Meanwhile, MICP reduced the available content of Pb in soil. By analyzing the diversity and composition of soil microbial communities, it was found that MICP reduced the diversity of soil microbial community and changed the composition of soil bacterial and fungal microbial communities due to the impact of bioremediation process on soil environmental factors. However, the functional composition of soil bacteria and fungi was not affected by MICP remediation, especially the functional composition of bacterial microbial community.
Identity Tension and Emotion Regulation: A case study of Chinese novice EFL teachers
Authors: Han Linlin , Zhang Junchao 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study explores Chinese novice EFL teachers’ identity tensions and their emotion regulation strategies in navigating these tensions. By interviewing six EFL teachers from Chinese primary and secondary schools, three types of identity tensions are first pinpointed. Participants’ imagined identities — such as being key teachers in main subjects, collaborators with parents and focused English teachers — significantly conflict with the practiced identities as marginalised teachers, sole educators and constrained subordinate workers. Additionally, by applying Gross’ framework of emotion regulation, the research identifies four interrelated strategies that teachers employ to tackle emotional challenges. The study broadens the understanding of EFL teachers’ professional identity development, highlighting the dynamic relationship between identity formation and emotion regulation.
Mechanical, Dielectric and Thermal Decomposition properties of Ethylene co-vinyl acetate Polymer Composites with Modified Chitosan Filler
Authors: Stephy Annie , Francis Tania 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The mechanical and dielectric properties of melt mixed EVA composites with polyaniline modified chitosan as fillers were investigated. A dependence on the filler concentration was observed for the mechanical properties such as tensile strength and Young’s modulus. The composite with higher concentration of filler showed 16.57 MPa and 25.26 MPa respectively. However, the presence of EVA matrix decreased the dielectric properties of the developed composites. In order to better understand the thermal decomposition and further analyse the recycling of the developed composites, kinetic parameters and thermodynamic properties of EVA/chitosan-g-PANi composites were determined. This was carried out on the basis of non-isothermal thermogravimetric experiments conducted at four different heating rates under N2 atmosphere. The Ea values obtained was strong function of conversion rates which ranged from 138–267 kJ/mol and 150–280 kJ/mol for KAS and Friedman methods respectively. Moreover, enthalpy, entropy and Gibbs energy changes were computed and these results would help design a process for the recycling of synthetic polymers.