bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Innovative mixed finite element method for bending analysis of functionally graded beams: modelling, validation, and applications
Authors: Benmalek Haroune , Bouziane Salah , Bouzerd Hamoudi , Suleiman Hisham 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In this research, we consider solutions for the Euler-Bernoulli theory (CBT) and the theory of Timoshenko (TBT). It presents an innovative mixed finite element method tailored for analysing beams with functionally graded properties, focusing on their behaviour under bending loads. The method employs an isoparametric formulation in natural coordinates, enabling precise modelling of complex geometries common in structural engineering and materials science. A significant contribution is extending the mixed finite element approach to assess the bending behaviour of functionally graded beams. Hence, it is vital to understand material responses to external forces. To illustrate its effectiveness and versatility, we provide two numerical examples involving cantilever and simply-supported isotropic beams with property variations along the material’s thickness, following power-law distributions. Additionally, a third example features a cantilever made from isotropic functionally graded material with quadratic property changes through the thickness. The method’s robustness and credibility are established through rigorous validation against numerical and analytical solutions found in existing literature. This validation confirms the accuracy and reliability of the mixed finite element method for assessing functionally graded materials under bending conditions, enhancing its utility in structural analysis. This research introduces a potent numerical tool for investigating the behaviour of functionally graded materials subjected to bending, providing valuable implications for engineering and materials science applications.
Morc2a variants cause hydroxyl radical-mediated neuropathy and are rescued by restoring GHKL ATPase
Authors: Chung Hye Yoon , Lee Geon Seong , Nam Soo Hyun , Lee Jeong Hyeon , Han Jeong Pil , Song Sumin , Kim Gap-Don , Jung Choonkyun , Hyeon Do Young , Hwang Daehee , Choi Byung-Ok , Yeom Su Cheong 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Mutations in the Microrchidia CW-type zinc finger 2 (MORC2) GHKL ATPase module cause a broad range of neuropathies, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2Z; however, the aetiology and therapeutic strategy are not fully understood. Previously, we reported that the Morc2a p.S87L mouse model exhibited neuropathy and muscular dysfunction through DNA damage accumulation.
In the present study, we analysed the gene expression of Morc2a p.S87L mice and designated the primary causing factor. We investigated the pathological pathway using Morc2a p.S87L mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human fibroblasts harbouring MORC2 p.R252W. We subsequently assessed the therapeutic effect of gene therapy administered to Morc2a p.S87L mice.
This study revealed that Morc2a p.S87L causes a protein synthesis defect, resulting in the loss of function of Morc2a and high cellular apoptosis induced by high hydroxyl radical levels. We considered the Morc2a GHKL ATPase domain as a therapeutic target because it simultaneously complements hydroxyl radical scavenging and ATPase activity. We used the adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.eB serotype, which has a high CNS transduction efficiency, to express Morc2a or Morc2a GHKL ATPase domain protein in vivo. Notably, AAV gene therapy ameliorated neuropathy and muscular dysfunction with a single treatment. Loss-of-function characteristics due to protein synthesis defects in Morc2a p.S87L were also noted in human MORC2 p.S87L or p.R252W variants, indicating the correlation between mouse and human pathogenesis.
In summary, CMT2Z is known as an incurable genetic disorder, but the present study demonstrated its mechanisms and treatments based on established animal models. This study demonstrates that the Morc2a p.S87L variant causes hydroxyl radical-mediated neuropathy, which can be rescued through AAV-based gene therapy.
An Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Integrated Resources Portal (IBDIRP)
Authors: Kai Nie , Qingsong Cai , Kejia Ma , Weiwei Luo , Xing Wu , Xuejie Chen , Lixia Cai , Minzi Deng , Yuanyuan Yang , Xiaoyan Wang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is a chronic and debilitating gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Research on IBD has generated massive amounts of data, including literature, metagenomics, metabolomics, bioresources and databases. We aim to create an IBD Integrated Resources Portal (IBDIRP) that provides the most comprehensive resources for IBD. An integrated platform was developed that provides information on different aspects of IBD research resources, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genes, transcriptome, microbiota, metabolomics, single cells and other resources. Valuable and comprehensive IBD-related data were collected from PubMed, Google, GMrepo, gutMega, gutMDisorder, Single Cell Portal and other sources. Then, the data were systematically sorted, and these resources were manually curated. We systematically sorted and cataloged more than 320 unique risk SNPs associated with IBD in the SNP section. We presented over 289 IBD-related genes based on the database collection in the gene section. We also obtained 153 manually curated IBD transcriptomics data, including 12 388 samples, on the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The sorted IBD-related microbiota data from three primary microbiome databases (GMrepo, gutMega and gutMDisorder) were available for download. We selected 23 149 IBD-related taxonomic records from these databases. Additionally, we collected 24 IBD metabolomics studies with 2896 participants in the metabolomics section. We introduced two interactive single-cell data plug-in units that provided data visualization based on cells and genes. Finally, we listed 18 significant IBD web resources, such as the official European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation and International Organization for the Study of IBD websites, IBD scoring tools, IBD genetic and multi-omics resources, IBD biobanks and other useful research resources. The IBDIRP website is the first integrated resource for global IBD researchers. This portal will help researchers by providing comprehensive knowledge and enabling them to reinforce the multidimensional impression of IBD. The IBDIRP website is accessible via www.ibdirp.com
Database URL: www.ibdirp.com.
Effect of high temperatures on sex ratio and differential expression analysis (RNA-seq) of sex-determining genes in Oreochromis niloticus from different river basins in Benin
Authors: Fagbémi Mohammed Nambyl A , Nivelle Renaud , Muller Marc , Mélard Charles , Lalèyè Philippe , Rougeot Carole 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The high temperature sex reversal process leading to functional phenotypic masculinization during development has been widely described in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis n iloticus) under laboratory or aquaculture conditions and in the wild. In this study, we selected five wild populations of O. niloticus from different river basins in Benin and produced twenty full-sib families of mixed-sex (XY and XX) by natural reproduction. Progenies were exposed to room temperature or high (36.5°C) temperatures between 10 and 30 days post-fertilization (dpf). In control groups, we observed sex ratios from 40% to 60% males as expected, except for 3 families from the Gobé region which showed a bias towards males. High temperature treatment significantly increased male rates in each family up to 88%. Transcriptome analysis was performed by RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) on brains and gonads from control and treated batches of six families at 15 dpf and 40 dpf. Analysis of differentially expressed genes, differentially spliced genes, and correlations with sex reversal was performed. In 40 dpf gonads, genes involved in sex determination such as dmrt1, cyp11c1, amh, cyp19a1b, ara, and dax1 were upregulated. In 15 dpf brains, a negative correlation was found between the expression of cyp19a1b and the reversal rate, while at 40 dpf a negative correlation was found between the expression of foxl2, cyp11c1, and sf1 and positive correlation was found between dmrt1 expression and reversal rate. Ontology analysis of the genes affected by high temperatures revealed that male sex differentiation processes, primary male sexual characteristics, autophagy, and cilium organization were affected. Based on these results, we conclude that sex reversal by high temperature treatment leads to similar modifications of the transcriptomes in the gonads and brains in offspring of different natural populations of Nile tilapia, which thus may activate a common cascade of reactions inducing sex reversal in progenies.
The relationship between intraflagellar transport and upstream protein trafficking pathways and macrocyclic lactone resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Brinzer Robert A , Winter Alan D , Page Antony P 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Parasitic nematodes are globally important and place a heavy disease burden on infected humans, crops, and livestock, while commonly administered anthelmintics used for treatment are being rendered ineffective by increasing levels of resistance. It has recently been shown in the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans that the sensory cilia of the amphid neurons play an important role in resistance toward macrocyclic lactones such as ivermectin (an avermectin) and moxidectin (a milbemycin) either through reduced uptake or intertissue signaling pathways. This study interrogated the extent to which ciliary defects relate to macrocyclic lactone resistance and dye-filling defects using a combination of forward genetics and targeted resistance screening approaches and confirmed the importance of intraflagellar transport in this process. This approach also identified the protein trafficking pathways used by the downstream effectors and the components of the ciliary basal body that are required for effector entry into these nonmotile structures. In total, 24 novel C. elegans anthelmintic survival-associated genes were identified in this study. When combined with previously known resistance genes, there are now 46 resistance-associated genes that are directly involved in amphid, cilia, and intraflagellar transport function.
Late-Life Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and its Association With Physical Disability and Dementia
Authors: Clayton-Chubb Daniel , Kemp William W , Majeed Ammar , Woods Robyn L , Ryan Joanne , Murray Anne M , Chong Trevor T J , Lubel John S , Tran Cammie , Hodge Alexander D , Schneider Hans G , McNeil John J , Roberts Stuart K 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
The burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is growing rapidly, including among older adults. The number of older adults is also rising with concomitantly increasing rates of age-related physical and cognitive dysfunction. However, data on whether MASLD affects physical and cognitive function in older adults is limited. As such, we aimed to identify whether prevalent MASLD influences the risk of incident physical disability or dementia in initially healthy older adults.

Methods
A post-hoc analysis of participants from the ASPREE-XT cohort study, which recruited community-dwelling older adults without a history of cardiovascular disease, dementia, or independence-limiting functional impairment. The Fatty Liver Index (to identify MASLD) was calculated in those with complete data. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to investigate the outcomes of dementia and persistent physical disability in participants with MASLD vs those without.

Results
Of the 9 097 individuals included (mean age 75.1 ± 4.2 years; 45.0% men), 341 (3.7%) developed persistent physical disability and 370 (4.1%) developed dementia over a median follow-up of 6.4 years (IQR 5.3–7.5 years). When adjusting for known contributors including age, gender, education, comorbidity, and functional measures, MASLD was associated with an increased risk of persistent physical disability (HR 1.41 [95% CI: 1.07–1.87]) and reduced risk of incident dementia (HR 0.63 [95% CI: 0.48–0.83]).

Conclusions
Prevalent MASLD is associated with reduced rates of incident dementia but increased risk of persistent physical disability in initially relatively healthy older adults. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these divergent results to allow appropriate risk stratification and counseling is important.
Telehealth use during the early COVID-19 public health emergency and subsequent health care costs and utilization
Authors: Lee Jun Soo , Bhatt Ami , Pollack Lisa M , Jackson Sandra L , Chang Ji Eun , Tong Xin , Luo Feijun 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Telehealth utilization increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet few studies have documented associations of telehealth use with subsequent medical costs and health care utilization. We examined associations of telehealth use during the early COVID-19 public health emergency (March–June 2020) with subsequent total medical costs and health care utilization among people with heart disease (HD). We created a longitudinal cohort of individuals with HD using MarketScan Commercial Claims data (2018–2022). We used difference-in-differences methodology adjusting for patients’ characteristics, comorbidities, COVID-19 infection status, and number of in-person visits. We found that using telehealth during the stay-at-home order period was associated with a reduction in total medical costs (by −$1814 per person), number of emergency department visits (by −88.6 per 1000 persons), and number of inpatient admissions (by −32.4 per 1000 persons). Telehealth use increased per-person per-year pharmacy prescription claims (by 0.514) and average number of days’ drug supply (by 0.773 days). These associated benefits of telehealth use can inform decision makers, insurance companies, and health care professionals, especially in the context of disrupted health care access.
On Some Birational Invariants of Hyper-Kähler Manifolds
Authors: Bai Chenyu 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
We study in this article three birational invariants of projective hyper-Kähler manifolds: the degree of irrationality, the fibering gonality, and the fibering genus. We first improve the lower bound in a recent result of Voisin saying that the fibering genus of a Mumford–Tate very general projective hyper-Kähler manifold is bounded from below by a constant depending on its dimension and the second Betti number. We also study the relations between these birational invariants for projective $K3$ surfaces of Picard number $1$ and study the asymptotic behaviors of their degree of irrationality and fibering genus.
Androgen Receptors in the Dermal Glands of Male and Female Ouachita Dusky Salamanders
Authors: Gunelson A M , Tuong M A , Staub N L 
Published: January 2024

Synopsis
The presence of androgens in female development is an important, yet often overlooked, topic. We tested for the presence of androgen receptors (ARs) in the dermal glands of male and female Desmognathus brimleyorum, a plethodontid salamander. This species engages in a courtship behavior called the tail-straddling walk. During this process, communication between males and females is hypothesized to be facilitated by pheromones secreted from modified granular glands (MGGs) on the dorsal tail base, where the female's chin is positioned. These glands are present not only dorsally but also laterally and ventrally on the tail of both males and females. Using immunohistochemistry with a polyclonal antibody, ARs were located in the MGGs of both sexes. Males had a higher percentage of immunopositive cells per MGG than females. The presence of ARs in both sexes highlights the similarity between MGGs in males and females and suggests androgens play a role in female gland function. Furthermore, our results suggest courtship communication is bidirectional, and females have a more active role, signaling the male, than previously described.
Agentive Names and Posthuman Ontologies: Onomastic Invocations of the “More-than-Human” in Early Christian and Medieval Tibetan Artifacts
Authors: Kimmel Joseph 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In recent years, posthumanist arguments regarding ontology and agency have played a significant role in reshaping the contours of the so-called humanities. Whereas this reshaping has focused heavily on the impact of technology (e.g., artificial intelligence) on the meaning of “being human,” as well as on the agency of nonhuman others (e.g., nonhuman animals), typically invisible beings (e.g., gods, spirits) have received significantly less attention. This article addresses this lacuna through a close and comparative study of the role of the invocation of particular divine names in the canonical Acts of the Apostles and a tenth-century Tibetan spellbook. After examining how each text presents the onomastic invocation of divinities as an efficacious method, under certain conditions, for accomplishing particular goals, this article elucidates how such texts both challenge posthumanist thinkers to articulate much more robust accounts of agency and ontology while also providing a means of doing so.
Efficient slope reliability analysis using a surrogate-assisted normal search particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Yuan Yi-li , Hu Chang-ming , Li Liang , Xu Jian , Hou Xu-hui 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSampling of training data is the most important step in active learning slope reliability analysis, which controls the analysis accuracy. In this study, a novel surrogate-assisted normal search particle swarm optimization (SANSPSO) was proposed to enhance the accuracy and robustness of existing methodologies. In SANSPSO, the sampling process was considered a minimum problem with an objective function defined as the absolute value of the performance function. Initiated with a normal search paradigm and supplemented by three algorithm strategies, this approach seeks to preserve the continuity of the solution while refining the algorithm’s efficacy and efficiency. To reduce computation cost, surrogate-assistance was used, in which a surrogate model substitutes the objective function in most iterations. This surrogate model evolves during the iteration process and ultimately replaces the actual performance function within Monte Carlo simulation. Finally, this study presents a comparative study with five state-of-the-art methods across four explicit problems and three engineering cases, where test data suggest that the SANSPSO methodology yields a 20% improvement in accuracy and a 30% rise in stability under different dimensional problems relative to the most efficacious of the alternate methods assessed because of the improved and more consistent prediction of limit state function. These findings substantiate the validity and robustness of the SANSPSO approach.
Three-dimensional nanostructure analysis of non-stained Nafion in fuel-cell electrode by combined ADF-STEM tomography
Authors: Ube Takuji 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) is one of the strongest candidates for a next-generation power source for vehicles which do not emit CO2 gas as exhaust gas. The key factor in PEFCs is the nano-scaled electrochemical reactions that take place on the catalyst material and an ionomer supported by a carbon support. However, because the nano-scaled morphological features of the key materials in the catalyst compound cannot be observed clearly by transmission electron microscopy, improvement of PEFC performance had been approached by an imaginal schematic diagram based on an electrochemical analysis. In this study, we revealed the nano-scaled morphological features of the PEFC electrode in three dimensions and performed a quantitative analysis of the nanostructure by the newly developed ‘Combined ADF-STEM tomography technique’. This method combines information from plural annular darkfield detectors with different electron collection angles and can emphasize the difference of the electron scattering intensity between the ionomer and carbon in the cross-sectional image of the reconstructed three-dimensional (3D) data. Therefore, this segmentation method utilizing image contrast does not require a high electron beam current like that used in energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and thus is suitable for electron beam damage-sensitive materials. By eliminating the process of manually determining the thresholds for obtaining classified component data from grayscale data, the obtained 3D structures have sufficient accuracy to allow quantitative analysis and specify the nano-scaled structural parameters directly related to power generation characteristics.
Identification of major QTLs for drought tolerance in soybean, together with a novel candidate gene, GmUAA6
Authors: Jiang Wei , Liu Yandang , Zhang Chi , Pan Lang , Wang Wei , Zhao Chunzhao , Zhao Tuanjie , Li Yan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Drought tolerance is a complex trait in soybean that is controlled by polygenetic quantitative trait loci (QTLs). In this study, wilting score, days-to-wilting, leaf relative water content, and leaf relative conductivity were used to identify QTLs associated with drought tolerance in recombinant inbred lines derived from a cross between a drought-sensitive variety, Lin, and a drought-tolerant variety, Meng. A total of 33 drought-tolerance QTLs were detected. Of these 17 were major QTLs. In addition, 15 were novel drought-tolerance QTLs. The most predominant QTL was on chromosome 11. This was detected in at least three environments. The overlapped mapping interval of the four measured traits was 0.2 cM in genetic distance (about 220 kb in physical length). Glyma.11g143500 (designated as GmUAA6), which encodes a UDP-N-acetylglucosamine transporter, was identified as the most likely candidate gene. The allele of GmUAA6 from Lin (GmUAA6Lin) was associated with improved soybean drought tolerance. Overexpression of GmUAA6Lin in Arabidopsis and soybean hairy roots enhanced drought tolerance. Furthermore, a 3-bp insertion/deletion (InDel) in the coding sequence of GmUAA6 explained up to 49.9% of the phenotypic variation in drought tolerance-related traits, suggesting that this InDel might be used in future marker-assisted selection of drought-tolerant lines in soybean breeding programs.