bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of 4‐month running exercise on the spatial learning ability and white matter volume and microvessels of middle‐aged female and male rats
Authors: Huang Chun‐Xia , Zhang Lei , Xiao Qian , Li Chen , Qiu Xuan , Chao Feng‐lei , Xiu Yun , Wang San‐rong , Zhang Yi , Tang Yong
Published: June 2022

Age‐related degeneration of microvessels is known to occur in white matter, and exercise training can enhance brain function and promote cerebral blood flow. However, the effects of exercise training on microvessels in aged white matter are unknown. Forty‐one middle‐aged male and female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into a sedentary group and an exercised group. The rats in the exercised group were made to run on treadmills for 4 months. The spatial learning capacities of all groups were then assessed with the Morris water maze. White matter and its microvessels were investigated using immunohistological techniques and stereological methods. In the exercised group, females but not males, showed improved performance over time in the Morris water maze. In females but not males, the exercised rats showed significantly increased white matter volume compared with that of sedentary rats. The total length of microvessels in the white matter in the exercised group was significantly increased compared with that in the sedentary group in both males and females, but the total volume and total surface area of microvessels in the white matter did not differ significantly between the sedentary and exercised rats. Regular treadmill exercise had protective effects on spatial learning capacity, white matter volume, and the total length of microvessels in the white matter in middle‐aged female rats and on the total length of microvessels in the white matter in middle‐aged male rats. The results obtained might increase our understanding of the mechanisms by which exercise delays brain aging.
Corporate social irresponsibility, hostile organisations and global resource extraction
Authors: Kemp Deanna , Owen John R.
Published: June 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a fundamentally normative construction. It speaks to what social responsibility should look like, who it should apply to, and how it should be demonstrated. By contrast, the analytic position of the corporate social irresponsibility (CSI) discourse is evidence‐based, and objects to the notion that companies can claim to be responsible while at the same time act irresponsibly. This paper supports a clear separation between (i) the critique of company performance within the dominant discursive construct of CSR and (ii) CSI as an evidence‐based approach to reading and documenting corporate performance. A conceptually distinct CSI discourse removes the need for researchers to disprove CSR rhetoric before engaging with responsibility problems. Rather than organising studies around CSR claims and commitments, we suggest that researchers of global resource extraction put their energies towards capturing the form and function of ‘organised irresponsibility’ in locations where mining takes place.
Type‐2 Fuzzy Logic controller‐based stator current Model reference adaptive system speed observer for a hybrid electric vehicle to improve transient response during limp home mode
Authors: Kakodia Sanjay Kumar , Dyanamina Giribabu
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a stator current‐based model reference adaptive system (SCMRAS) for indirect vector control of induction motor fed to hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) for improving the transient response during limp home period has been proposed. In the proposed SCMRAS, the measured stator currents are employed in voltage model to eliminate the integrator in reference model. The stator currents are estimated and are compared with actual current components to estimate the rotor speed. Further, to improve the performance of SCMRAS during limp home period, the PI controller in the adaptation mechanism is replaced with type 2 fuzzy logic controller (T2FLC). The prototype model of the proposed SCMRAS using dSPACE DS 1104 R&D controller board has been developed for implementing speed sensorless indirect vector control of induction motor drive. The performance of SCMRAS and proposed SCMRAS using T2FLC estimators during limp home period is compared.
Fibrillin protein, a candidate for creating a suitable scaffold in PDL regeneration while avoiding ankylosis
Authors: Oka Kyoko
Published: June 2022

The tooth is stabilized by fiber‐rich tissue called the periodontal ligament (PDL). The narrow space of the PDL does not calcify in the physiological state even thought it exists between two calcified tissues, namely, the cementum of the root and alveolar bone. Two situations that require PDL regeneration are periodontitis and dental trauma. Periodontitis induces the loss of PDL and alveolar bone due to inflammation related to infection. Conversely, in PDLs damaged by dental trauma, accelerating bone formation as an overreaction of the healing process is induced, thereby inducing dentoalveolar ankylosis at the tooth root surface. PDL regeneration following dental trauma must therefore be considered separately from periodontitis. Therefore, PDL regeneration in dental trauma must be considered separately from periodontitis. This review focuses on the components involved in avoiding dentoalveolar ankylosis, including oxytalan fibers, aggregated microfibrils, epithelial cell rests of Malassez (ERM), and TGF‐β signaling. During root development, oxytalan fibers produced by PDL cells work in collaboration with the epithelial components in the PDL (e.g., Hertwig's root sheath [HERS] and ERM). We herein describe the functions of oxytalan fibers, ERM, and TGF‐β signals which are involved in the avoidance of bone formation.
Uniform risk spectra for rocking structures
Authors: Reggiani Manzo Natalia , Lachanas Christos G. , Vassiliou Michalis F. , Vamvatsikos Dimitrios
Published: June 2022

This paper presents uniform risk spectra for zero stiffness bilinear elastic (ZSBE) systems. The ZSBE oscillator is a bilinear elastic system with zero post‐“yield” stiffness that satisfactorily predicts the response of different systems with negative lateral stiffness (e.g., free‐standing or restrained rocking blocks). It can be described by a single parameter; thus, it is simpler to produce its spectrum. Using the ZSBE proxy, this paper provides the uniform risk spectra for sites in six locations in Europe. The spectra are constructed using two distinct intensity measures (IMs): peak ground velocity (PGV) and peak ground acceleration (PGA). The efficiency of both IMs at different ranges of displacement demands is discussed and analytical approximations of the spectra are proposed.
Anticoagulant Rodenticide Contamination of Terrestrial Birds of Prey from Western Canada: Patterns and Trends, 1988–2018
Authors: Elliott John E. , Silverthorn Veronica , Hindmarch Sofi , Lee Sandi , Bowes Victoria , Redford Tony , Maisonneuve France
Published: June 2022

As the dominant means for control of pest rodent populations globally, anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs), particularly the second-generation compounds (SGARs), have widely contaminated nontarget organisms. We present data on hepatic residues of ARs in 741 raptorial birds found dead or brought into rehabilitation centers in British Columbia, Canada, over a 30-year period from 1988 to 2018. Exposure varied by species, by proximity to residential areas, and over time, with at least one SGAR residue detected in 74% of individuals and multiple residues in 50% of individuals. By comparison, we detected first-generation compounds in <5% of the raptors. Highest rates of exposure were in barred owls (Strix varia), 96%, and great horned owls (Bubo virginianus), 81%, species with diverse diets, including rats (Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus), and inhabiting suburban and intensive agricultural habitats. Barn owls (Tyto alba), mainly a vole (Microtus) eater, had a lower incidence of exposure of 65%. Putatively, bird-eating raptors also had a relatively high incidence of exposure, with 75% of Cooper's hawks (Accipiter cooperii) and 60% of sharp-shinned hawks (Accipiter striatus) exposed. Concentrations of SGARs varied greatly, for example, in barred owls, the geometric mean ∑SGAR = 0.13, ranging from <0.005 to 1.81 μg/g wet weight (n = 208). Barred owls had significantly higher ∑SGAR concentrations than all other species, driven by significantly higher bromadiolone concentrations, which was predicted by the proportion of residential land within their home ranges. Preliminary indications that risk mitigation measures implemented in 2013 are having an influence on exposure include a decrease in mean concentrations of brodifacoum and difethialone in barred and great horned owls and an increase in bromodialone around that inflection point. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1903–1917. © 2022 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
The origin and localization of “vermiculite” along the intra‐terrane shear zones in the Bundelkhand Craton, India: Mechanism and implication
Authors: Banerjee Sayandeep , Maity Sayan , Sarkar Goutam , Acharya Shriza
Published: June 2022

Vermiculite, a clay mineral of economic importance, is reported for the first time from the Bundelkhand Craton. The locales of the vermiculite occurrence are mapped within the Bundelkhand granitoids at several places. The identification of the fracture system and the zones of strain localization within Bundelkhand granitoids are critical for targeting the occurrences of vermiculite. A range of studies including meso‐, micro‐, and sub‐microscopic analyses were used to delineate the characteristic features of vermiculite along the brittle/ductile shear zones in the Bundelkhand Craton. SEM‐based EDS, EPMA, and XRD analyses confirm the ubiquitous dominance of vermiculite as fracture infills and/or channel infill materials along the zones of nucleation of ductile shear zones. It is postulated here that the occurrence of vermiculite is a result of supergene alteration of biotite present in the vein material. The parent material of the fracture infills from which the veins crystallized is genetically derived from the host rock (Bundelkhand granitoid), which later healed the fractures and prompted the nucleation of ductile shear zones in the Bundelkhand Craton.
Hand anthropometric dimensions and strengths in workers: A comparison of three occupations
Authors: Hajaghazadeh Mohammad , Taghizadeh Mohsen , Mohebbi Iraj , Khalkhali Hamidreza
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study was to measure and compare the hand anthropometric dimensions and strengths of three different occupations. A cross‐sectional study was designed to measure 34 hand dimensions and 4 hand strengths of 558 participants consisted of office workers, vehicle mechanics, and farmers. A digital caliper, a hand dynamometer, and a pinch meter were used to collect data. Percentile values for each measurement were tabulated at the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentile levels. The analysis of variance, t test, and Cohen's d were performed to assess the differences in anthropometric variables between groups of workers. The findings demonstrated statistically significant differences in the mean size and strength of the hands across three occupations. Office workers' hands were significantly smaller than those of car mechanics and farmers, particularly in terms of hand depths and widths. Car mechanics' hand circumferences were bigger than those of farmers. Office workers produced the weakest hand strengths. Wrist breadth of workers showed the highest correlation with hand strengths. Compared to other studies, the hands of Iranian workers were wider and thicker, but the length of their hands was similar. Given the significant variances in hand anthropometry between occupational categories, these differences should be incorporated into the design and selection of hand‐related products such as gloves and hand tools for each group of workers.
Forecasting the incidence of dengue in Bangladesh—Application of time series model
Authors: Naher Shabnam , Rabbi Fazle , Hossain Md. Moyazzem , Banik Rajon , Pervez Sabbir , Boitchi Anika Bushra
Published: June 2022

Background

Dengue is an alarming public health concern in terms of its preventive and curative measures among people in Bangladesh; moreover, its sudden outbreak created a lot of suffering among people in 2018. Considering the greater burden of disease in larger epidemic years and the difficulty in understanding current and future needs, it is highly needed to address early warning systems to control epidemics from the earliest.

Objective

The study objective was to select the most appropriate model for dengue incidence and using the selected model, the authors forecast the future dengue outbreak in Bangladesh.

Methods and Materials

This study considered a secondary data set of monthly dengue occurrences over the period of January 2008 to January 2020. Initially, the authors found the suitable model from Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), Error, Trend, Seasonal (ETS) and Trigonometric seasonality, Box‐Cox transformation, ARMA errors, Trend and Seasonal (TBATS) models with the help of selected model selection criteria and finally employing the selected model make forecasting of dengue incidences in Bangladesh.

Results

Among ARIMA, ETS, and TBATS models, the ARIMA model performs better than others. The Box‐Jenkin's procedure is applicable here and it is found that the best‐selected model to forecast the dengue outbreak in the context of Bangladesh is ARIMA (2,1,2).

Conclusion

Before establishing a comprehensive plan for future combating strategies, it is vital to understand the future scenario of dengue occurrence. With this in mind, the authors aimed to select an appropriate model that might predict dengue fever outbreaks in Bangladesh. The findings revealed that dengue fever is expected to become more frequent in the future. The authors believe that the study findings will be helpful to take early initiatives to combat future dengue outbreaks.
The Kuwait Stitch: A novel surgical technique for surgical wound closures
Authors: Sartawi Muthana M. , Rahman Hafizur , Yousef Ibraheem , Kohlmann James M.
Published: June 2022

There are several stitch techniques used for surgical wound closing. Each stitch has its own benefits and drawbacks that a surgeon must balance before use. In this paper, we highlight some of the more common techniques utilized in operative wound closure and briefly discuss benefits and caveats one must be aware of before using. The rest of our paper will focus on a new technique, the Kuwait Stitch, with instructions on how to perform the technique followed by a discussion on the benefits and indications for use of this stitch.
The prevalence of cardiac and hepatic iron overload in patients with kidney failure: A protocol for systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Yassin Mohamed A. , Abd‐Alrazaq Alaa , Shuweihdi Farag , Abdul Rahim Hanan F. , Shraim Mujahed
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Few studies have reported cardiac and hepatic iron overload in patients with kidney failure or end‐stage renal disease and the current evidence regarding the prevalence is still scarce. To the best of the authors' knowledge and following an exhaustive search; no systematic review/meta‐analysis has estimated the aggregated prevalence of cardiac and hepatic iron overload in this patient population.

Aim

This review aims to estimate the prevalence of hepatic and/or cardiac iron overload in patients with kidney failure who are receiving hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or underwent kidney transplants.

Methods

A systematic review with meta‐analysis will be conducted and reported in line with PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE and Embase bibliographic databases will be searched using a comprehensive list of controlled vocabularies and keywords to identify relevant studies. All studies reporting the prevalence of hepatic and/or cardiac iron overload prevalence in patients with kidney failure will be considered. Risk of bias assessment for included studies will be conducted based on the study design. StataBE v17 and MetaXL v5.3 will be utilized to perform the meta‐analysis.

Discussion

The findings of this systematic review and analysis are expected to give information on the prevalence of iron overload among patients with kidney failure, which will optimize interventions and guide future research in this understudied field.
Early onset metastatic colorectal cancer in patients receiving panitumumab‐based upfront strategy: Overall and sex‐specific outcomes in the Valentino trial
Authors: Raimondi Alessandra , Randon Giovanni , Prisciandaro Michele , Pagani Filippo , Lonardi Sara , Antoniotti Carlotta , Bozzarelli Silvia , Sartore‐Bianchi Andrea , Tampellini Marco , Fanchini Laura , Murialdo Roberto , Clavarezza Matteo , Zaniboni Alberto , Berenato Rosa , Ratti Margherita , Petrelli Fausto , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Giordano Monica , Rossi Alessandro , Di Bartolomeo Maria , Di Maio Massimo , Pietrantonio Filippo , Morano Federica
Published: June 2022

Anti‐EGFRs plus doublet chemotherapy is considered the optimal upfront option for RAS/BRAF wild‐type left‐sided metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Early‐onset (EO) mCRC has an increasing incidence and its prognostic/predictive role and management is debatable. We performed a post hoc analysis of Valentino study, that randomized RAS wild‐type mCRC patients to two panitumumab‐based maintenance regimens after FOLFOX/panitumumab induction. We assessed the safety and efficacy outcomes in patients stratified for age (<50/≥50 years old). We assessed progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), response rate (ORR), rate of treatment‐related and panitumumab‐related adverse events (AEs) and quality of life (QoL). In 229 patients enrolled, 35 (15%) had EO mCRC, with a higher rate of female sex (P = .020) and lower rate of primary tumor resection (P = .001). Median PFS and OS were 10.9 vs 10.8 months (P = .593) and 28.1 vs 27.5 months (P = .865) in patients <50 and ≥50 years old, respectively, with no significant impact of maintenance arm. ORR and disease control rate were 74% vs 65% (P = .337) and 97% vs 81% (P = .013) in patients <50 or ≥50 years old. In younger patients, a trend for increased chemotherapy‐related AEs (peculiarly anemia) was shown, while significantly decreased EGFR‐related hypomagnesemia and increased skin rash were reported. No significant differences in treatment intensity or QoL were observed. In patients with EO mCRC and RAS wild‐type status, we found no differences in terms of survival outcomes based on age when selecting maintenance strategies. Management of treatment‐related AEs should consider the differential toxicity profile of age and sex.
3D bioprinting of gellan gum‐based hydrogels tethered with laminin‐derived peptides for improved cellular behavior
Authors: Alheib Omar , da Silva Lucilia P. , Youn Yun Hee , Kwon Il Keun , Reis Rui L. , Correlo Vitor M.
Published: June 2022

The treatment of skeletal muscle defects is still a topic of noteworthy concern since surgical intervention is not capable of recovering muscle function. Herein, we propose myoblasts laden in laminin‐inspired biofunctionalized gellan gum hydrogels as promising tissue‐engineered skeletal muscle surrogates. Gellan gum‐based hydrogels were developed by combining native gellan gum (GG) and GG tethered with laminin‐derived peptides (CIKVAVS (V), KNRLTIELEVRTC (T) or RKRLQVQLSIRTC (Q)), using different polymer content (0.75%–1.875%). Hydrogels were characterized in terms of compressive modulus, molecules trafficking, and C2C12 adhesion. Hydrogels with higher polymeric content (1.125%–1.875%) showed higher stiffness whereas hydrogels with lower polymer content (0.75%–1.125%) showed higher fluorescein isothiocyanate‐dextran molecules diffusion. Cell spreading was achieved regardless of the laminin‐derived peptide but preferred in hydrogels with higher polymer content (1.125%–1.875%). Taken together, hydrogels with 1.125% of polymer content were selected for printability analysis. GG‐based inks showed a non‐newtonian, shear‐thinning, and thixotropic behavior suitable for printing. Accordingly, all inks were printable, but inks tethered with T and Q peptides presented some signs of clogging. Cell viability was affected after printing but increased after 7 days of culture. After 7 days, cells were spreading but not showing significant signs of cell–cell communications. Therefore, cell density was increased, thus, myocytes loaded in V‐tethered GG‐based inks showed higher cell–cell communication, spreading morphology, and alignment 7, 14 days post‐printing. Overall, myoblasts laden in laminin‐inspired biofunctionalized GG‐based hydrogels are a promising skeletal muscle surrogate with the potential to be used as in vitro model or explored for further in vivo applications.
The lncARSR/PTEN/Akt/nuclear factor‐kappa B feedback regulatory loop contributes to doxorubicin resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Yaling , Li Jun , Chen Hongyan , Wang Jiting , Jiang Linhan , Tan Xiaoxia
Published: June 2022

Chemoresistance is a major obstacle to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) chemotherapy. Our previous study found that long noncoding RNA lncARSR (lncRNA Activated in RCC with Sunitinib Resistance) activated Akt signaling via repressing phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) during doxorubicin resistance in HCC. The purpose of this study is to further explore lncARSR‐mediated mechanisms and roles during doxorubicin resistance in HCC. The expression of lncARSR was detected by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) activity was detected by NF‐κB luciferase reporter assays, western blot, and NF‐κB transcription factor assays. The effects of NF‐κB on lncARSR were detected by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, promoter luciferase reporter assay, and real‐time qPCR. The effects of lncARSR/Akt/NF‐κB on doxorubicin resistance were detected by Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay, capsase‐3 activity assay, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay. lncARSR activated NF‐κB signaling through activation of Akt. NF‐κB transactivated lncARSR through directly binding lncARSR promoter and increasing lncARSR promoter activity. Akt transactivated lncARSR via activating NF‐κB signaling. Thus, lncARSR, Akt, and NF‐κB formed a positive feedback regulatory loop in HCC. Through this feedback loop, lncARSR auto‐regulated its transcription. Drug sensitivity assays showed that the lncARSR/Akt/NF‐κB feedback regulatory loop promoted doxorubicin resistance in HCC. These findings identified the lncARSR/Akt/NF‐κB feedback regulatory loop in HCC, which represent potential therapeutic targets for improving doxorubicin sensitivity in HCC.
Unbalanced ER‐mitochondrial calcium homeostasis promotes mitochondrial dysfunction and associated apoptotic pathways activation in methylmercury exposed rat cortical neurons
Authors: Pan Jingjing , Wei Yanfeng , Ni Linlin , Li Xiaoyang , Deng Yu , Xu Bin , Yang Tianyao , Sun Jingyi , Liu Wei
Published: June 2022

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a cumulative environmental pollutant that can easily cross the blood–brain barrier and cause damage to the brain, mainly targeting the central nervous system. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of calcium ion (Ca2+) homeostasis between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria in MeHg‐induced neurotoxicity. Rat primary cortical neurons exposed to MeHg (0.25–1 μm) underwent dose‐dependent cell damage, accompanied by increased Ca2+release from the ER and elevated levels of free Ca2+in cytoplasm and mitochondria. MeHg also increased the protein and messenger RNA expressions of the inositol 1,4,5‐triphosphate receptor, ryanodine receptor 2, and mitochondrial calcium uniporter. Ca2+channel inhibitors 2‐aminoethyl diphenylborinate and procaine reduced the release of Ca2+from ER, while RR and 4,4′‐diisothiocyanatostilbene‐2,2′‐disulfonate inhibited Ca2+uptake from mitochondria. In addition, pretreatment with Ca2+chelator BAPTA‐AM effectively restored mitochondrial membrane potential levels, inhibited over opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore, and maintained mitochondrial function stability. Meanwhile, the expression of mitochondrial apoptosis‐related proteins recovered to some extent, along with the reduction of the early apoptosis ratio. These results suggest that Ca2+homeostasis plays an essential role in mitochondrial damage and apoptosis induced by MeHg, which may be one of the important mechanisms of MeHg‐induced neurotoxicity.
Social connectedness, mindfulness, and coping as protective factors during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Dailey Stephanie F. , Parker Maggie M. , Campbell Andrew
Published: June 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had an unprecedented psychological impact, revealing immense emotional disturbances among the general population. This study examined the extent to which social connectedness, dispositional mindfulness, and coping moderate symptoms of anxiety and depression in 1242 adults under the same government‐issued COVID‐19 stay‐at‐home mandate. Participants completed measures of anxiety, depression, dispositional mindfulness, social connectedness, and coping, and regression analyses were used to examine associations and interaction effects. Results indicated that social connectedness and dispositional mindfulness were associated with reduced symptoms. For individuals living with a partner, decreased mindfulness and avoidant coping were associated with anxious symptoms. In households with children, overutilization of approach coping served to increase symptoms of depression. Results indicate the importance of considering social connectedness, mindfulness, and coping in counseling to enhance factors serving to protect clients during a public health crisis. Implications for professional counselors and areas of future research are discussed.
Are empathy profiles and perceived social support associated with depressive and grief‐related symptoms in suicide survivors?
Authors: Toffol Elena , Aliverti Emanuele , Idotta Carlo , Capizzi Giovanna , Scocco Paolo ,   SOPROXI Team
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the link between empathy, perceived social support, and depressive and grieving symptoms in suicide survivors.

Methods

Scores on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG), Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), and the Social Support section of the Interpersonal Questionnaire were collected from 265 survivors. Relations were tested via multivariate regression models.

Results

Lower Perspective Taking (PT) was related with higher levels of BDI score, and higher Personal Distress (PD) was associated with higher BDI, ICG, and PGD scores. Higher levels of Social Support were related with higher BDI and ICG (but not PGD) scores.

Conclusion

Empathic PD and PT, and perceived social support are differently associated with depression and grief‐related symptoms. Empathy‐focused psychotherapies and empowerment of social support may reduce symptoms in suicide survivors.
Kinetics of phosphorus sorption/desorption by soil aggregates in a long‐term revegetation desert ecosystem
Authors: Li Chengyi , He Mingzhu , Ren Jianxin , Li Manfei , Tang Liang
Published: June 2022

Elucidating the kinetics of phosphorus (P) sorption and desorption in soil aggregates of different sizes has important implications for the regulation of plant growth and development in revegetation desert ecosystems. In this study, the Freundlich models were used to describe the kinetics of P sorption and desorption by soil aggregates of five sizes (0.5–0.25, 0.25–0.15, 0.15–0.10, 0.10–0.05 and <0.05 mm) in a long‐term revegetation desert ecosystem. The results showed that long‐term (>65 years) revegetation significantly improved the properties of desert soil in terms of P fractions (p < 0.05), soil bulk density (p < 0.05), and soil type. The Freundlich models well‐described P sorption and desorption by soil aggregates in the revegetated desert. Soil aggregates of 0.25–0.15 mm adsorbed the lowest amount of P (P adsorbed: KF = 0.26, n = 0.97) but desorbed the highest amount of P (P desorbed: KF = 2.41, n = −0.97). Soil aggregates of <0.05 mm adsorbed the most P (P adsorbed: KF = 0.60, n = 0.85) but desorbed the lowest P (P desorbed: KF = 1.67, n = −1.00). Furthermore, P sorption was fastest when the added P was 0–1.0 mg L−1, and P desorption was fastest at 1–3 hr. Soil aggregates that were 0.25–0.15 mm in size had the highest mass proportion in the long‐term revegetation desert and played a key role in supporting available P for plant development. Soil aggregates of <0.05 mm adsorbed the most P; however, their contribution was constrained because they had the smallest mass proportion and the lowest amount of P desorption.
Conversion of rainforest to rubber plantations impacts the rhizosphere soil mycobiome and alters soil biological activity
Authors: Monkai Jutamart , Purahong Witoon , Nawaz Ali , Wubet Tesfaye , Hyde Kevin D. , Goldberg Stefanie D. , Mortimer Peter E. , Xu Jianchu , Harrison Rhett D.
Published: June 2022

In Southeast Asia and Asia, large swathes of rainforest have been converted to rubber plantations, with major consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, the impact of this land use conversion on rhizosphere soil mycobiome has not yet been addressed. This study aimed to investigate how rhizosphere soil fungal communities and their associated biological activity (soil respiration, soil methane (CH4), and potential soil enzyme production) are impacted by the conversion of rainforest to rubber plantations. Fungal richness and community composition in rhizosphere soils collected from natural rainforests, immature rubber, and mature rubber plantations were analyzed using paired‐end Illumina sequencing. The conversion of natural rainforest to rubber plantations significantly altered fungal community composition of specific functional groups (saprotrophs, pathogens, and mycorrhiza). We observed significant loss of saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal fungi in natural rainforests, but enrichment of plant pathogenic fungi in immature rubber plantations. The mechanism underlying the effects of forest conversion on changes in fungal communities is related to reductions in soil pH, total nitrogen (N), and ammonium (NH4) in rubber plantations. Conversion to rubber plantation also resulted in decline of soil respiration rates and less potential for cellulase and chitinase productions. The significant negative correlations between fungal richness and soil respiration in mature rubber plantations indicated high competition among fungi and low nutrient availability in this system. We demonstrate the negative consequences of the conversion of rainforest to rubber plantations on soil biological activity and significant changes in fungal community composition that could threaten long‐term ecosystem functions.
Characterization of novel molybdenum disulfide and cerium dioxide reinforced hybrid aluminum matrix composites fabricated by friction stir processing
Authors: Maji P. , Ghosh S.K. , Nath R.K. , Paul P. , Meitei R.K.B.
Published: June 2022

Aluminum matrix composites are widely used for making structural components in the aerospace and automobile industries. In order to sustain the operational demand, excellent anti‐wear and corrosion resistance properties are required in the composites. To achieve this, molybdenum disulfide and cerium dioxide reinforced hybrid aluminum‐based composites are fabricated by friction stir processing at different rotational speed and number of passes. Due to grain refinement and better particle distribution at high rotational speed and 2 pass, tensile strength and microhardness improves by sacrificing ductility. However, deterioration of mechanical properties than the as‐received alloy is evident in all the composites due to dissolvement of strengthening precipitates. With increasing tool rotational speed, severe adhesion type of wear shifts to abrasion wear and the wear resistance also improves. All the composites show similar corrosion behavior as the unprocessed alloy. However, the corrosion parameters such as corrosion potential and corrosion current density were influenced by processing conditions. The composite produced with 1500 min−1 and 2 pass exhibits highest wear and corrosion resistance.
Effect of nano‐Fe3O4 on normal force of magnetorheological fluid
Authors: Liu X.H. , Hu H.N. , Wang J.H. , Wu Y. , Xu B. , Pu M.L.
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a kind of magnetorheological fluid, containing nano‐Fe3O4, was prepared in order to study the influence of nano‐Fe3O4 content on its normal force characteristics. Firstly, the microscopic force model is constructed and the microscopic static analysis is carried out. Secondly, the force of the magnetic chain under impacted is simulated by using the numerical simulation method of ANSYS finite element analysis and a plate‐to‐plate shear test system is established. The results show that the normal force of the magnetic chain is enhanced by the supporting force of the nano iron powder embedded in the magnetic chain. At the same magnetic induction intensity, the normal force of the magnetorheological fluid gradually increases with the increase of the mass fraction of nano‐particles. When the mass fraction of the nanoparticles is 7 %, the normal force reaches the maximum.
Screening of forward osmosis membrane potential to treat produced water
Authors: Nasir R. , Suhaimi A.S. , Mohshim D.F. , Maqsood K. , Alsaadi A.
Published: June 2022

The produced water is considered one of the largest waste streams in the oil and gas industries. Untreated produced water discharge damages the environment. Forward osmosis utilizes a dilute solution to concentrate contaminated streams to treat produced water. This paper tried to shed some light on forward osmosis‘s potential in treating produced water, measuring forward osmosis commercial membrane‘s effectiveness in treating produced water feed taken from two different points in an oil and gas facility in Malaysia. The rejection for chemical oxygen demand and boron was greater than 80 %, and a considerable decrease in forward osmosis flux was observed. The corrugated plate interceptor‘s inlet feed decreased by 73 % relative to the initial flux, while it decreased by 52.5 % for equalization tank feed. Design expert® was used to optimize the process using a one‐factor experimental design. The regression models indicated a good fit of model. The R2 was 0.9393 and 0.9888 for corrugated plate interceptor‘s inlet, and the equalization tank produced water, respectively. The optimization results concluded a 20 % draw solution concentration with the desirability of 0.927 and 0.987 for two feed waters.
Analyses of locomotion, wing morphology, and microbiome in Drosophila nigrosparsa after recovery from antibiotics
Authors: Weiland Simon O. , Detcharoen Matsapume , Schlick‐Steiner Birgit C. , Steiner Florian M.
Published: June 2022

Antibiotics, such as tetracycline, have been frequently used to cure arthropods of Wolbachia endosymbionts. After the symbionts have been removed, the hosts must recover for some generations from the side effects of the antibiotics. However, most studies do not assess the direct and indirect longer‐term effects of antibiotics used to remove Wolbachia, which may question the exact contribution of this endosymbiont to the effects observed. Here, we used the fly Drosophila nigrosparsa treated or not with tetracycline for three generations followed by two generations of recovery to investigate the effects of this antibiotic on the fly locomotion, wing morphology, and the gut microbiome. We found that antibiotic treatment did not affect fly locomotion two generations after being treated with the antibiotic. In addition, gut‐microbiome restoration was tested as a more efficient solution to reduce the potential side effects of tetracycline on the microbiome. There was no significant difference in alpha diversity between gut restoration and other treatments, but the abundance of some bacterial taxa differed significantly between the gut‐restoration treatment and the control. We conclude that in D. nigrosparsa the recovery period of two generations after being treated with the antibiotic is sufficient for locomotion, and suggest a general assessment of direct and indirect effects of antibiotics after a particular recovery time.
Introduction to the principles and methods underlying the recovery of metagenome‐assembled genomes from metagenomic data
Authors: Goussarov Gleb , Mysara Mohamed , Vandamme Peter , Van Houdt Rob
Published: June 2022

The rise of metagenomics offers a leap forward for understanding the genetic diversity of microorganisms in many different complex environments by providing a platform that can identify potentially unlimited numbers of known and novel microorganisms. As such, it is impossible to imagine new major initiatives without metagenomics. Nevertheless, it represents a relatively new discipline with various levels of complexity and demands on bioinformatics. The underlying principles and methods used in metagenomics are often seen as common knowledge and often not detailed or fragmented. Therefore, we reviewed these to guide microbiologists in taking the first steps into metagenomics. We specifically focus on a workflow aimed at reconstructing individual genomes, that is, metagenome‐assembled genomes, integrating DNA sequencing, assembly, binning, identification and annotation.
Identification of acetylated diether lipids in halophilic Archaea
Authors: Kropp Cosimo , Lipp Julius , Schmidt Anna Lena , Seisenberger Christina , Linde Mona , Hinrichs Kai‐Uwe , Babinger Patrick
Published: June 2022

As a hallmark of Archaea, their cell membranes are comprised of ether lipids. However, Archaea‐type ether lipids have recently been identified in Bacteria as well, with a somewhat different composition: In Bacillales, sn‐glycerol 1‐phosphate is etherified with one C35 isoprenoid chain, which is longer than the typical C20 chain in Archaea, and instead of a second isoprenoid chain, the product heptaprenylglyceryl phosphate becomes dephosphorylated and afterward diacetylated by the O‐acetyltransferase YvoF. Interestingly, database searches have revealed YvoF homologs in Halobacteria (Archaea), too. Here, we demonstrate that YvoF from Haloferax volcanii can acetylate geranylgeranylglycerol in vitro. Additionally, we present the first‐time identification of acetylated diether lipids in H. volcanii and Halobacterium salinarum by mass spectrometry. A variety of different acetylated lipids, namely acetylated archaeol, and acetylated archaetidylglycerol, were found, suggesting that halobacterial YvoF has a broad substrate range. We suppose that the acetyl group might serve to modify the polarity of the lipid headgroup, with still unknown biological effects.
Computed tomography–based radiomics for identifying pulmonary cryptococcosis mimicking lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Yongchang , Chu Zhigang , Yu Jianqun , Chen Xiaoyi , Liu Jing , Xu Jingxu , Huang Chencui , Peng Liqing
Published: June 2022

Background

Pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC) is an invasive pulmonary fungal disease, and nodule/mass‐type PC may mimic lung cancer (LC) in imaging appearance. Thus, an accurate diagnosis of nodule/mass‐type PC is beneficial for appropriate management. However, the differentiation of nodule/mass‐type PC from LC through computed tomography (CT) is still challenging.

Purpose

To develop and externally test a CT‐based radiomics model for differentiating nodule/mass‐type PC from LC.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients with nodule/mass‐type PC or LC who underwent non‐enhanced chest CT were included: Institution 1 was for the training set, and institutions 2 and 3 were for the external test set. Large quantities of radiomics features were extracted. The radiomics score (Rad‐score) was calculated using the linear discriminant analysis, and a subsequent fivefold cross‐validation was performed. A combined model was developed by incorporating Rad‐score and clinical factors. Finally, the models were tested with an external test set and compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

A total of 168 patients (45 with PC and 123 with LC) were in the training set, and 72 (36 with PC and 36 with LC) were in the external test set. Of the 81 patients with PC, 30 were immunocompromised (37%). Rad‐score, comprising 18 features, had an AUC of 0.844 after fivefold cross‐validation, which was lower than that (AUC = 0.943, p = 0.003) of the combined model integrating Rad‐score, age, lobulation, pleural retraction, and patches. In the external test set, Rad‐score and the combined model obtained good predictive performance (AUC = 0.824 for Rad‐score, and 0.869 for the combined model). Moreover, the combined model outperformed the clinical model in the cross‐validation and external test (0.943 vs. 0.810, p <0.001; 0.869 vs. 0.769, p = 0.011).

Conclusions

The proposed combined model exhibits a good differential diagnostic performance between nodule/mass‐type PC and LC. The CT‐based radiomics analysis has the potential to serve as an effective tool for the differentiation of nodule/mass‐type PC from LC in clinical practice.
Effect of fibroblast growth factor signaling on cumulus expansion in mice in vitro
Authors: Kanke Takuya , Fujii Wataru , Naito Kunihiko , Sugiura Koji
Published: June 2022

The expansion of cumulus cells associated with oocytes is an essential phenomenon in normal mammalian ovulation. Indeed, attenuated expression of cumulus expansion‐related genes, including Has2, Ptgs2, Ptx3, and Tnfaip6, results in ovulation failure, leading to female subfertility or infertility. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that proteins of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family, produced within ovarian follicles, regulate the development and function of cumulus cells; however, the effects of FGF signaling on cumulus expansion have not been investigated extensively. Herein, we investigate the effects of FGF signaling, particularly those of FGF8 secreted by oocytes, on epidermal growth factor‐induced cumulus expansion in mice. The phosphorylation level of MAPK3/1, an intracellular mediator of FGF signaling, was significantly decreased in cumulus‐oocyte complexes (COCs) following treatment with NVP‐BGJ398, an FGF receptor inhibitor. Moreover, even though NVP‐BGJ398 treatment did not affect cumulus cell expansion, it significantly upregulated the expression of Ptgs2 and Ptx3. In contrast, treatment with recombinant FGF8 did not affect the degree of cumulus expansion or the expression of expansion‐related genes in COCs or oocytectomized cumulus cell complexes. Collectively, these results suggest that FGFs, other than FGF8, exert suppressive effects on the cumulus expansion process in mice.
Integrated conservation of Acer yangbiense: A case study for conservation methods of plant species with extremely small populations
Authors: Yang Jing , Tao Lidan , Yang Jianrong , Wu Cuifen , Sun Weibang
Published: June 2022

Societal Impact Statement

A practical and efficient model is crucial for applying conservation actions to threatened species. Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations (PSESP) is a new concept raised jointly by government and scientists from China, targeted toward funding the urgent rescue of threatened plants. With the cooperation of decision‐making departments, scientists, local departments, nongovernment organizations, and local people, we present a case of how the tree species Acer yangbiense was studied and finally rescued. The pipeline and experience in this case will promote the development of the PSESP conservation methods.

With only five individuals known for years, the Critically Endangered species Acer yangbiense was listed under the conservation category Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations (PSESP), a concept developed 10 years ago in China, aimed at channeling limited resources to conserve the most threatened plant species.

Integrated conservation methods and research were applied to A. yangbiense and introduced in two‐time phases upon the discovery of new populations.

Being considered one of the most successfully rescued species, A. yangbiense was removed from the second PSESP list issued in 2021 by Yunnan Province, China. The conservation case has become a model, with replicable pipelines, standards, cooperation, and studies to future PSESP conservation actions.

Herein, we discuss the significance of work on A. yangbiense for future conservation actions regarding PSESP and other endangered species.
Multifunctional Inverse Opal Microneedle Arrays for Drug Delivery and Monitoring
Authors: Lu Minhui , Fan Lu , Chen Hanxu , Zhang Zhuohao , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: June 2022

Microneedle arrays (MNs) have a demonstrated value in transdermal drug delivery systems. Attempts to this technology focus on the generation of functional MNs to achieve intelligent drug delivery. Here, multifunctional inverse opal microneedle (IOMN) arrays with the abilities are reported to load various drugs and monitor drug release. The IOMNs are generated by using poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) to replicate hierarchical structure templates that are composed of self‐assembled silica colloidal nanoparticles in the inverted cone structure wells. Because of their interconnected porous structures, different actives, or drugs can be loaded into the IOMNs without organic solvents and chemical polymerization. It is demonstrated that when these drugs loaded IOMNs pierce the skin at position of interest and for slow release, the average refractive index of the IOMNs decreases with the release process, resulting in a corresponding blueshift of their characteristic spectrum. Thus, by measuring the wavelength shift value of the IOMNs, the amount of released drugs can be monitored, providing essential guidance for efficient clinical treatment. These features indicate that the IOMNs are valuable smart drug delivery systems in personalized therapy.
Role of N in Transition‐Metal‐Nitrides for Anchoring Platinum‐Group Metal Atoms toward Single‐Atom Catalysis
Authors: Ma Mingyu , Cheng Xu , Shi Zude , Zhang Chenglan , Li Yan , Yang Yifan , Gong Chengshi , Zhang Zhenxing , Fei Huilong , Zhu Chao , He Yongmin , Xie Erqing
Published: June 2022

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with a maximum atom utilization efficiency have received growing attention in heterogeneous catalysis. The supporting substrate that provides atomic‐dispersed anchoring sites and the local electronic environment in these catalysts is crucial to their activity and stability. Here, inspired by N‐doped graphene substrate, the role of N is explored in transition metal nitrides for anchoring single metal atoms toward single‐atom catalysis. A pore‐rich metallic vanadium nitride (VN) nanosheet is fabricated as one supporting‐substrate example, whose surface features abundant unsaturated N sites with lower binding energy than that of widely used N‐doped graphene. Impressively, it is found that this support can anchor nearly all platinum‐group single atoms (e.g., platinum, palladium, iridium, and ruthenium), and even be extendable to multiple SACs, i.e., binary (Pt/Pd) and ternary (Pt/Pd/Ir). As a proof‐of‐concept application for hydrogen production, Pt‐based SAC (Pt1‐VN) performs excellently, exhibiting a mass activity up to 22.55 A mg−1Pt at 0.05 V and a high turnover frequency value close to 0.350 H2 s−1, superior to commercial platinum/carbon catalyst. The catalyst's durability can be further improved by using binary (Pt1Pd1‐VN) SAC. This work provides inexpensive and durable nitride‐based support, giving a possible pathway for universally constructing platinum‐group SACs.