bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regularized SPH model for soil–structure interaction with generalized frictional boundary
Authors: Wang Yadong , Wu Wei , Peng Chong
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes a regularized smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) scheme to solve the problems of tensile instability and stress noise in large‐deformation soil–structure interaction. Particle shifting and stress regularization are combined to maintain uniform stresses and particle distributions. A generalized frictional boundary condition is presented to model soil–structure interfaces with abitrary friction coefficients. A modified particle shifting technique is developed to regularize particles near the frictional boundaries. Furthermore, GPU acceleration algorithm is adopted to improve the efficiency. The proposed scheme is compared with the conventional SPH methods using numerical examples, including the collapse of three‐dimensional granular column, the collapse of the cohesive soil, and pipe penetrates into soft clay. The comparison indicates that the proposed regularized SPH model can give highly accurate results for large‐deformation soil–structure interaction problems with arbitrary friction coefficient.
Weak correlation between total psoas muscle area and sarcopenia index for children with brain tumor
Authors: Wang Ziwen , Zeng Shuangmei , Liu Ling , Zhong Ximei , Cai Linbo
Published: April 2023

Objective

The aim of this study is to determine whether the sarcopenia index (SI) is a viable measure of muscle mass in pediatric patients with brain tumors.

Methods

Retrospectively enrolled patients (1–16 years) who had serum creatinine (Cr) and cystatin C (CysC) levels evaluated within 28 days of an abdomen magnetic resonance imaging scan for the lumbar vertebrae 3‐4 total psoas muscle area (tPMA) were studied. Variables were compared using their z scores calculated from age‐ and sex‐dependent reference. We hypothesized that a low SI indicated less skeletal muscle, and therefore potentially indicated sarcopenia.

Results

The SI z score had no correlation with tPMA z score (r = 0.004). Both Cr and CysC levels were positively correlated with tPMA in z scores (r = 0.249 and 0.320). tPMA strongly correlated with body mass index in z scores (r = 0.582). The z scores of tPMA, Cr and CysC decreased with elevated World Health Organization grades of tumor, but the z scores of SI showed no significant dependence on WHO grades.

Conclusion

The correlation of SI to muscle mass is very weak in our sample of pediatric patients with brain tumor. Its viability as biomarker for sarcopenia needs more study.
Patterns of Pharyngeal Obstruction and Collapse in Obese and Nonobese Children on Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy
Authors: Sadiq Ibrahim , El‐Hakim Hamdy
Published: April 2023

Objective

(1) Compare proportions of collapse, obstruction, or mixed instances on drug‐induced sleep endoscopy findings of obese and nonobese children with obstructive sleep disordered breathing. (2) Determine the frequency of collapse in general between both groups.

Study Design

Retrospective case‐control study.

Setting

Tertiary pediatric center.

Methods

Obese (body mass index >95 percentile) children presenting with obstructive sleep disordered breathing (>33 on the pediatric sleep questionnaire) were identified from a prospectively kept surgical database. Only those who had undergone drug‐induced sleep endoscopy were eligible. Age and sex pair‐matched nonobese children were identified. Only nonsyndromic, neurologically normal, surgically naïve patients were included. The frequency of obstructive, collapse, and mixed pharyngeal patterns was documented in both groups. A comparison of proportions was then undertaken (χ2 test).

Results

Over a 5‐year period, 73 consecutive children with obesity were identified (40 males; mean of 8.5 ± 3.0 years, 2.8‐13.1). They were matched with 73 nonobese children (8.4 ± 3.0 years, 2.6‐14.1). The obese group exhibited significantly more pharyngeal collapses (62:47) (p = .0021 odds ratio [OR] 3.358, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.52‐7.42). The proportion of pharyngeal findings on drug‐induced sleep endoscopy was significantly different (p = .000129) between the 2 groups; obese (61 mixed: 3 obstruction: 9 collapse) and nonobese (48 mixed: 22 obstruction: 4 collapse).

Conclusion

The predominance of hypopharyngeal collapse in children with obesity may explain the likelihood of failure of surgery directed at obstructive findings. This may also strengthen the case for drug‐induced sleep endoscopy in this group at the initial surgery to guide it rather than after the failure of adenotonsillectomy.
Using acoustic tracking of an anadromous lamprey in a heavily fragmented river to assess current and historic passage opportunities and prioritise remediation
Authors: Jubb William M. , Noble Richard A. A. , Dodd Jamie R. , Nunn Andrew D. , Bolland Jonathan D.
Published: April 2023

Anthropogenic structures extensively fragment riverine systems, reducing longitudinal connectivity, inhibiting migration and leading to severe declines in many fish populations, especially for diadromous species. This study investigated the upstream spawning migration of anadromous river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) in a heavily fragmented tributary of the Humber Estuary, the location of one of the largest UK river lamprey populations. Overall, this study quantified river lamprey migration, spawning habitat distribution and historic river levels to develop a novel empirical index to understand the impact of man‐made barriers and prioritise their remediation. Passage at all weirs only occurred during episodic high river levels, often after prolonged delays with no lamprey passing below average levels for the time of year or utilising the fish pass at the first weir (T1) at the tidal limit. Barrier passage opportunities at the first four weirs were only possible for 30.3%, 38.7%, 52.1% and 6.7% of the migration period, but were lower and severely limited in 15 of the last 21 years. In addition, more lamprey (60%, n = 18) were last detected in reaches with no spawning habitat than in spawning habitat (40%, n = 12). Given the impassibility of, and lack of retreat from, T1 to other Humber tributaries, the River Trent is currently considered an ecological trap for a large proportion of lamprey that enter from the Humber Estuary. This passage should be urgently remediated, per the prioritisation index presented here, to aid river lamprey conservation, especially given their status as a designated feature of the Humber SAC.
Model‐based‐systems‐engineering for conceptual design: An integrative approach
Authors: Shoshany‐Tavory Sharon , Peleg Eran , Zonnenshain Avigdor , Yudilevitch Gil
Published: April 2023

Conceptual‐Design is an early development phase, where innovation and creativeness shape the future system/product. Model‐Based‐Conceptual‐Design (MBCD) attempts to use best‐practices of Model‐Based‐Systems‐Engineering (MBSE) to gain the envisioned benefits of model connectivity. Using MBSE supporting tools can transform Conceptual‐Design into a digital‐engineered process but may impede creativity and innovation. Concurrently, the design domain offers specific methods and tools for innovative Conceptual‐Design. In the current study, we explore an existing Conceptual‐Design framework and offer MBSE interpretation and tools extensions needed for its digital implementation. Through such exploration we highlight MBCD specific insights and discuss modeling‐innovation interrelations. The implementation was accomplished using a domain‐specific enabling software package on top of a market‐accepted UML/SysML platform, extending the language definitions, where appropriate. The framework guided extensions allow generation of innovative bottom‐up alternatives, solution integration, and solutions’ comparison. The use of modeling is shown to offer clearer process definition, specific methods assistance, and alternative ranking—both manually and automatically. Consequently, MBCD is accomplished, which supports innovation, while being digitally connected to full‐scale‐development models and the organizational assets at large. Through integration into the orderly Systems‐Engineering process, traceability is maintained, and repeated iterations are supported, where conceptual decisions may be revisited. Additionally, through the introduction of an assets’ catalog, cross‐organizational knowledge sharing is accomplished. The paper presents samples of the extensions, using a simplified example of technology design for Future Firefighting. The value of incorporating Conceptual‐Design specific methodology and tools is evaluated through feedback from multiple domain experts. Discussion and future research directions are offered.
Noise‐Robust Optimization of Impedance Loading for Single‐RF MIMO Systems
Authors: Kim Minhoe , Park Daehee
Published: April 2023

Multiple‐Input‐Multiple‐Output (MIMO) systems are widely used to enhance the system capacity in wireless communications systems. The complexity and the cost for implementing the multiple radio frequency‐chain (RF‐chain) increases proportional to the number of signal streams. Therefore, so‐called load modulating single‐RF MIMO system is one promising technology in the practical aspects. Load modulating single‐RF MIMO can utilize two‐port network for controlling the load and the desired signal can be generate by loading proper set of impedance. In this paper, the optimization method for choosing the two‐port network impedance solution that is robust to the impedance noise is proposed and the simulations are conducted to verify the robustness. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Madecassoside ameliorates cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity by inhibiting activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase pathway
Authors: Yuan Hui , Zhao Yingying , Li Shumin , Qin Jun , Yu Xiaowen
Published: April 2023

Nephrotoxicity is a major side effect of cisplatin. Apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and the MAPK signaling pathway activation are concerned with the pathophysiology of cisplatin‐induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Madecassoside (MA), an active constituent of Centella asiatica, has anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects. The present research aim to investigate the underlying protective mechanisms of MA on cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Pretreatment of mice with MA markedly ameliorated cisplatin‐induced renal tubular cell injury evidenced by the improvement of kidney function and kidney morphology and blocked upregulation of kidney injury biomarkers (kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM‐1) and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL)). Cisplatin‐induced renal cell apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress were also prevented by MA treatment. Consistent with the in vivo results, MA pretreatment attenuated cisplatin‐induced renal cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Transcriptome analysis using RNA‐sequencing suggested that the MAPK signaling pathway was the most affected, and MA could inhibit cisplatin‐induced MAPK signaling pathway activation in vivo and in vitro. In summary, MA treatment ameliorated cisplatin‐induced renal tubular damage possibly by decreasing activation of the MAPK signaling pathway, suggesting its potential for the treatment of AKI.
NEDD4L inhibits migration, invasion, cisplatin resistance and promotes apoptosis of bladder cancer cells by inactivating the p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Wu Qi , Zhang Huijiang , You Shengjie , Xu Zhaoyu , Liu Xiang , Chen Xuedong , Zhang Weili , Ye Junjie , Li Peng , Zhou Xiaoqing
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study identified the function of neural precursor cell expressed developmentally down‐regulated 4‐like (NEDD4L) on bladder cancer (BLCA).

Methods

NEDD4L expression in BLCA patients was scrutinized. The function of NEDD4L on the viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion of BLCA cells was evaluated by cell counting kit‐8, flow cytometry and Transwell assays. The effect of NEDD4L on the cisplatin (DDP) resistance of the DDP‐resistant BLCA cells was explored. The influence of NEDD4L on the p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway activity in BLCA cells was tested by Western blot. Rescue experiments were implemented to verify whether NEDD4L regulated BLCA cell malignant behavior by mediating the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway activity via p62. The effect of NEDD4L on the growth and the p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway activity in vivo was researched in xenograft tumor nude mice models.

Results

The down‐regulated NEDD4L in BLCA patients was associated with unfavorable survival. NEDD4L suppressed the viability (inhibition rate 57.1%/49.0%), migration (inhibition rate 49.7%/77.1%), invasion (inhibition rate 50.6%/75.7%), promoted the apoptosis of T24/5637 cells (promotion rate 243.8%/201.9%), reduced IC 50 of DDP‐resistant T24/5637 cells from 132.2/101.8 to 57.81/59.71 μM, respectively, and inactivated the p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in T24/5637 cells. p62 up‐regulation partially abrogated the inhibition of NEDD4L on the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway activity, the malignant behavior of BLCA cells, and the DDP resistance of DDP‐resistant BLCA cells. NEDD4L overexpression inhibited the tumor growth and the p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway activity in vivo in BLCA.

Conclusion

NEDD4L inhibits the progression of BLCA by inactivating the p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. It may be an effective target for BLCA treatment.
Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics reveal glyphosate based‐herbicide induced reproductive toxicity through disturbing energy and nucleotide metabolism in mice testes
Authors: Qi Lei , Li Yupeng , Dong Yanmei , Ma Shuli , Li Gang
Published: April 2023

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide that has deleterious effects on animal reproduction. However, details regarding the systematic mechanisms of glyphosate‐induced reproductive toxicity are limited. This study aimed to investigate the toxic effects of glyphosate‐based herbicide (GBH) on reproduction in mice exposed to 0 (control group), 50 (low‐dose group), 250 (middle‐dose group), and 500 (high‐dose group) mg/kg/day GBH for 30 days. Toxicological parameters, metabolomics, and transcriptomics were performed to reveal GBH‐induced reproductive toxicity. Our findings demonstrated that GBH exposure damaged mitochondrial pyknosis and the nuclear membrane of spermatogonia. GBH triggered a significant increase in sperm malformations in the high‐dose group. Omics data showed that GBH impaired the Krebs cycle and respiratory chain, blocked pyruvate metabolism and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and influenced the pentose phosphate pathway and nucleotide synthesis and metabolism. Overall, the multi‐omics results revealed systematic and comprehensive evidence of the adverse effects of GBH exposure, providing new insights into the reproductive toxicity of organophosphorus pesticides.
Organoids technology for advancing the clinical translation of cancer nanomedicine
Authors: Zhao Dong‐Kun , Liang Jie , Huang Xiao‐Yi , Shen Song , Wang Jun
Published: April 2023

The past decades have witnessed the rapid development and widespread application of nanomedicines in cancer treatment; however, the clinical translation of experimental findings has been low, as evidenced by the low percentage of commercialized nanomedicines. Incomplete understanding of nanomedicine‐tumor interactions and inappropriate evaluation models are two important challenges limiting the clinical translation of cancer nanomedicines. Currently, nanomedicine‐tumor interaction and therapeutic effects are mainly investigated using cell lines or mouse models, which do not recapitulate the complex tumor microenvironment in human patients. Thus, information obtained from cell lines and mouse models cannot provide adequate guidance for the rational redesign of nanomedicine. Compared with other preclinical models, tumor organoids constructed from patient‐derived tumor tissues are superior in retaining the key histopathological, genetic, and phenotypic features of the parent tumor. We speculate that organoid technology would help elucidate nanomedicine‐tumor interaction in the tumor microenvironment and guide the design of nanomedicine, making it a reliable tool to accurately predict drug responses in patients with cancer. This review highlighted the advantages of drug delivery systems in cancer treatment, challenges limiting the clinical translation of antitumor nanomedicines, and potential application of patient‐derived organoids (PDO) in nanomedicine. We propose that combining organoids and nanotechnology would facilitate the development of safe and effective cancer nanomedicines and accelerate their clinical application. This review discussed the potential translational value of integrative research using organoids and cancer nanomedicine.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Preparation of Experiments: Addition and In Situ Production of Trace Gases and Oxidants in the Gas Phase
Authors: Bell David M. , Cirtog Manuela , Doussin Jean-François , Fuchs Hendrik , Illmann Jan , Muñoz Amalia , Patroescu-Klotz Iulia , Picquet-Varrault Bénédicte , Ródenas Mila , Saathoff Harald
Published: April 2023

Preparation of the air mixture used in chamber experiments requires typically the injection of trace gases into a bath gas. In this chapter, recommendations and standard protocols are given to achieve quantitative injections of gaseous, liquid or solid species. Various methods to produce ozone, nitrate radicals and hydroxyl radicals are discussed. Short-lived oxidants need to be produced during the experiment inside the chamber from pre-cursor species. Because highly reactive oxidants like hydroxyl radicals are challenging to detect an alternative method for the quantification of radical concentrations using trace molecules is described.
Analysis of Chamber Data
Authors: Seakins Paul , Allanic Arnaud , Jammoul Adla , Mellouki Albelwahid , Muñoz Amalia , Rickard Andrew R. , Doussin Jean-François , Kleffmann Jorg , Kangasluoma Juha , Lehtipalo Katrianne , Cain Kerrigan , Dada Lubna , Kulmala Markku , Cazaunau Mathieu , Newland Mike J. , Ródenas Mila , Wiesen Peter , Jorga Spiro , Pandis Spyros , Petäjä Tuukka
Published: April 2023

In this chapter, we focus on aspects of analysis of typical simulation chamber experiments and recommend best practices in term of data analysis of simulation chamber results relevant for both gas phase and particulate phase atmospheric chemistry. The first two sections look at common gas-phase measurements of relative rates and product yields. The simple yield expressions are extended to account for product removal. In the next two sections, we examine aspects of particulate phase chemistry looking firstly at secondary organic aerosol (SOA) yields including correction for wall losses, and secondly at new particle formation using a variety of methods. Simulations of VOC oxidation processes are important components of chamber work and one wants to present methods that lead to fundamental chemistry and not to specific aspects of the chamber that the experiment was carried out in. We investigate how one can analyse the results of a simulation experiment on a well-characterized chemical system (ethene oxidation) to determine the chamber-specific corrections. Finally, we look at methods of analysing photocatalysis experiments, some with a particular focus on NOx reduction by TiO2-doped surfaces. In such systems, overall reactivity is controlled by both chemical processes and transport. Chambers can provide useful practical information, but care needs to be taken in extrapolating results to other conditions. The wider impact of surfaces on photosmog formation is also considered.
Conclusions
Authors: Doussin Jean-François
Published: April 2023

In this conclusion, we present the long journey of the scientific community toward a precise understanding of the chemistry at work in atmospheric simulation chamber starting from the early definition and objections about the use of these complex installations to the progress made recently through the EUROCHAMP projects. It summarizes how the need for a careful characterization that was identified as early as 30 to 40 years ago are now on a good way to be fullfilled. it also briefly reviews the major progress made in our understanding of atmospheric chemistry thanks to chamber activities. It finally concludes with the recent advances shaping the way the future use of atmospheric simulation chambers extending their application to emerging scientific issues as well as better simulating the complexity of the real atmosphere including interfaces and considering longer timescales. .
Performing Weedist
Authors: Li Kwan Queenie , Cunningham Joel Austin
Published: April 2023

The world is currently facing a wave of data centre construction. Fuelled by an explosion of data production and the emergence of edge computing, our cities are witnessing the materialisation of new architectural typologies that increasingly convolute notions of digital and bodily distinction. Whilst the last 2 decades have seen the proliferation of separate human and post-human urban environments, here we consider the agency and performativity of human communities within increasingly tangled contexts. As edge computing continues to bring the material reality of data processing closer to our physical bodies, perhaps its time to reassess who, or what, our cities now serve. In an age of unprecedented digital transformation, when our identities seem to be ever more intangible, how we might perform within environments that are increasingly catering to our digital rather than bodily needs? Today, the Anthropocene expels nature to the periphery. Tomorrow, humans become marginalised—“weeds”, thriving in an epoch of data.
Prognostic value of the liver fibrosis marker fibrosis-5 index in patients with severe isolated tricuspid regurgitation: comparison with fibrosis-4 index
Authors: Nakashima Mitsutaka , Miyoshi Toru , Tanakaya Machiko , Saito Takaaki , Katayama Yusuke , Sakuragi Satoru , Takaya Yoichi , Ito Hiroshi
Published: April 2023

The fibrosis-4 index (FIB4), a liver fibrosis maker, has been shown to be associated with the prognosis in patients with severe isolated tricuspid regurgitation (TR). Recent study showed that the fibrosis-5 index (FIB5), which was calculated by albumin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase and platelet count, had better prognostic value than FIB4 in patients with heart failure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of FIB5 index for predicting prognosis in patients with severe isolated TR and compare the prognostic value between the FIB4 and the FIB5 in those patients. This was a dual-center, retrospective study. 113 consecutive outpatients with severe isolated TR (mean age, 65.8 years; 47.8% male) were analyzed. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) were defined as the composite of cardiovascular death, hospitalization for heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke. During a median follow-up of 3.0 years, 41 MACEs occurred. Patients with MACEs had a lower the FIB5 than patients without MACEs. The multivariate Cox analysis revealed that the FIB5 < -4.30 was significantly associated with higher incidence of MACEs after adjusted by confounding factors. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analyses showed that prognostic values did not differ between the FIB5 and the FIB4 in whole patients and in patients aged ≥ 70 years; while, in patients aged < 70 years, the FIB5 had better prognostic value than the FIB4. The FIB5 may be a useful predictor of MACEs in patients with severe isolated TR.
Research highlight: surgical outcomes of gluteal VY plasty after extensive abdominoperineal resection or total pelvic exenteration
Authors: Gielen Anke H. C. , Colier Evie , Qiu Shan S. , Keymeulen Kristien B. M. I. , Stassen Laurents P. S. , Melenhorst Jarno
Published: April 2023

Objective

To describe a suitable alternative technique for reconstruction of the pelvic floor after extensive resection. To review our outcomes of gluteal VY plasty in the reconstruction of the pelvic floor after extensive abdominoperineal resection (conventional or extralevator abdominoperineal resection, total pelvic exenteration, or salvage surgery).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

An academic hospital and tertiary referral centre for the treatment of locally advanced or locally recurrent rectal cancer, and salvage surgery in The Netherlands.

Patients

Forty-one consecutive patients who underwent a pelvic floor reconstruction with gluteal VY plasty at Maastricht University Medical Centre between January 2017 and February 2021 were included. The minimum duration of follow-up was 2 years.

Main outcome measures

Perineal herniation is the primary outcome measure. Furthermore, the occurrence of minor and major postoperative complications and long-term outcomes were retrospectively assessed.

Results

Thirty-five patients (85.4%) developed one or more complications of whom twenty-one patients experienced minor complications and fourteen patients developed major complications. Fifty-seven percent of complications was not related to the VY reconstruction. Six patients (14.6%) recovered without any postoperative complications during follow-up. Three patients developed a perineal hernia.

Conclusions

A gluteal VY plasty is a suitable technique for reconstruction of the pelvic floor after extensive perineal resections resulting in a low perineal hernia rate, albeit the complication rate remains high in this challenging group of patients.
Tumor suppressor miR-218 directly targets epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression in triple-negative breast cancer, sensitizing cells to irradiation
Authors: Wischmann Franz-Josef , Troschel Fabian M. , Frankenberg Maj , Kemper Björn , Vijaya Kumar Archana , Sicking Mark , Ibrahim Sherif Abdelaziz , Kiesel Ludwig , Götte Martin , Eich Hans Theodor , Greve Burkhard
Published: April 2023

Purpose

MicroRNA-218 (miR-218) is a key regulator of numerous processes relevant to tumor progression. In the present study, we aimed to characterize the relationship between miR-218 and the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) as well as to understand downstream effects in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Methods

We assessed miR-218 and EGFR expression in cell lines and publicly available primary breast cancer gene expression data. We then overexpressed miR-218 in two TNBC cell lines and investigated effects on EGFR and downstream mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling. Luciferase reporter assay was used to characterize a direct binding interaction between miR-218 and EGFR mRNA. Digital holographic microscopy helped investigate cell migration and dry mass after miR-218 overexpression. Cell division and invasion were assessed microscopically, while radiation response after miR-218 overexpression alone or combined with additional EGFR knockdown was investigated via clonogenic assays.

Results

We found an inverse correlation between EGFR expression and miR-218 levels in cell lines and primary breast cancer tissues. MiR-218 overexpression resulted in a downregulation of EGFR via direct binding of the mRNA. Activation of EGFR and downstream p44/42 MAPK signaling were reduced after pre-miR-218 transfection. Cell proliferation, motility and invasiveness were inhibited whereas cell death and mitotic catastrophe were upregulated in miR-218 overexpressing cells compared to controls. MiR-218 overexpressing and EGFR siRNA-treated cells were sensitized to irradiation, more than miR-218 overexpressing cells alone.

Conclusion

This study characterizes the antagonistic relationship between miR-218 and EGFR. It also demonstrates downstream functional effects of miR-218 overexpression, leading to anti-tumorigenic cellular changes.
Joint-product representation learning for domain generalization in classification and regression
Authors: Chen Sentao , Chen Liang
Published: April 2023

In this work, we study the problem of generalizing a prediction (classification or regression) model trained on a set of source domains to an unseen target domain, where the source and target domains are different but related,i.e, the domain generalization problem. The challenge in this problem lies in the domain difference, which could degrade the generalization ability of the prediction model. To tackle this challenge, we propose to learn a neural network representation function to align a joint distribution and a product distribution in the representation space, and show that such joint-product distribution alignment conveniently leads to the alignment of multiple domains. In particular, we align the joint distribution and the product distribution under the$$L^{2}$$L2-distance, and show that this distance can be analytically estimated by exploiting its variational characterization and a linear variational function. This allows us to comfortably align the two distributions by minimizing the estimated distance with respect to the network representation function. Our experiments on synthetic and real-world datasets for classification and regression demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed solution. For example, it achieves the best average classification accuracy of 82.26% on the text dataset Amazon Reviews, and the best average regression error of 0.114 on the WiFi dataset UJIIndoorLoc.
Varying stages of ecological succession in lakes subdivided by volcanic eruptions at Akan Caldera, Japan
Authors: Wakana Isamu , Kadono Yasuro , Urabe Jotaro , Tamura Yuki , Suzuki Yoshifusa , Yamada Hiroyuki , Oyama Yoichi , Wada Keiji , Hasegawa Takeshi , Ohara Masashi
Published: April 2023

Ecological succession within lakes generally proceeds as eutrophication and shallowing occur and the aquatic biota of the lakes is altered. The eutrophication rate depends on the lake size and the area and fertility of the watershed. If the watershed fertility of several different lakes is equivalent and the lakes’ formation time and initial environment are similar, the trophic status of each lake is expected to increase over time depending on the ratio of the watershed area to lake size. To test this supposition, we surveyed the topography and water quality of 10 lakes of varying sizes in Akan Caldera, Japan, which were formed thousands of years ago by fragmentation due to volcanic eruptions within the caldera. The ratio of the accumulated watershed area to lake size was positively correlated with total phosphorus concentration, an indicator of trophic status, and lake types were classified as oligotrophic, mesotrophic, eutrophic, and dystrophic. In addition, 21 species of macrophytes were found in the lakes, and the species composition of each lake was divided into five types corresponding to combinations of the lake types. The discovery of such diversity in a group of lakes with a similar origin paves the way for new comparative studies.
Characterising Solder Materials from Random Vibration Response of Their Interconnects in BGA Packaging
Authors: Depiver Joshua A. , Mallik Sabuj , Amalu Emeka H.
Published: April 2023

Solder interconnection in electronic packaging is the weakest link, thus driving the reliability of electronic modules and systems. Improving interconnection integrity in safety-critical applications is vital in enhancing application reliability. This investigation qualifies the random vibration response of five essential solder compositions in ball grid array (BGA) solder joints used in safety-critical applications. The solder compositions are eutectic Sn63Pb37 and SnAgCu (SAC) 305, 387, 396, and 405. Computer-aided engineering (CAE) employing ANSYS finite element analysis and SolidWorks software is implemented in this investigation. The solder Sn63Pb37 deformed least at 0.43 µm, followed by SAC396 at 0.58 µm, while SAC405 deformed highest at 0.88 µm. Further analysis demonstrates that the possession of a higher elastic modulus and mass density culminates in lower solder joint deformation. Stress is concentrated at the periphery of the solder joints in contact with a printed circuit board (PCB). The SAC396 solder accumulates the lowest stress of 14.1 MPa, followed by SAC405 at 17.9 MPa, while eutectic Sn63Pb37 accrues the highest at 34.6 MPa. Similarly, strain concentration is found at the interface between the solder joint and copper pad on a PCB. SAC405 acquires the lowest elastic strain magnitude of 0.0011 mm/mm, while SAC305 records the highest strain of 0.002 mm/mm. These results demonstrate that SAC405 solder has maximum and SAC387 solder has minimum fatigue lives.
The Role of microRNA-23a-3p in the Progression of Human Aging Process by Targeting FOXO3a
Authors: Wang Shan , Sun Ying , Yao Lan , Xing Yunli , Yang Huayu , Ma Qing
Published: April 2023

Aging results in deterioration of body functions and, ultimately, death. miRNAs contribute to the regulation of aging. The aim of this study was to explore the contribution of miRNAs to aging and senescence-related changes in gene expression. The expression changes of miRNAs in the blood of people and animal samples collected from different age subjects were examined using Affymetrix miRNA 4.0 microarray and qRT-PCR. MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to examine the effect of miR-23a on cell functions in WI-38 cells. The expression levels of 48 miRNAs, including miR-23a, miR-21, and miR-100, in the blood samples were higher in the middle-aged group than in the young or elderly group. Animal studies further suggested that the expression of miR-23a increased with age. In addition, upregulation of miR-23a dramatically suppressed the cell proliferation and arrested the WI-38 cell cycle in vitro. FOXO3a has been identified as a target gene of miR-23a. MiR-23a downregulated the expression of FOXO3a in WI-38 cells. MiRNAs have different expression levels in different age groups. miR-23a could suppress cell proliferation and arrest the cell cycle in WI-38 cells, which elucidated the mechanism through which miR-23a exerts pivotal role in WI-38 cells by targeting FOXO3a.
Silica NPs–Cytotoxicity Cross-Talk: Physicochemical Principles and Cell Biology Responses
Authors: Nekounam Houra , Malakootikhah Javad , Shaterabadi Donya , Negahdari Babak , Kandi Mohammad Reza , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: April 2023

Many advances have been made in the preparation, optimization, and applications of silica nanoparticles (NPs) in biomedical nanotechnology. Considering this, the broader human, environmental, and industrial contacts with these NPs are inevitable. Improved knowledge of the physicochemical properties of silica NPs and their interactions with biological systems at the cellular level is essential for the rational design of silica NPs. This can involve the deliberately enhanced or decreased cellular responses and toxicity. Therefore, controlling the risk of toxicity can better guide the design of silica NPs for drug delivery and bioimaging systems. Various reports have discussed the toxicology of silica NPs. However, the mechanisms underlying the cellular responses to these NPs remain unclear. Here, we discuss the physicochemical-biological interactions governing the cellular responses and toxicity of silica NPs.

Graphical Abstract
Protecting peatlands requires understanding stakeholder perceptions and relational values: A case study of peatlands in the Yorkshire Dales
Authors: Lees Kirsten J. , Carmenta Rachel , Condliffe Ian , Gray Anne , Marquis Lyndon , Lenton Timothy M.
Published: April 2023

Sustainable peatland management is a global environmental governance challenge given peat’s carbon storage. Peatlands worldwide are sites of contested demands between stakeholders with distinct management priorities. In the United Kingdom, peatland management is a focus of political interest for nature-based solutions (NBS), causing tensions with land managers who feel their traditional knowledge is undervalued. Using Q-method (a semi-quantitative method for clarifying distinct viewpoints) with estate managers, gamekeepers, farmers, and employees of land-owning organisations, we explored perceptions around changing upland management in the Yorkshire Dales. Land managers hold strong values of ownership, aesthetics, and stewardship. The prospect of changing management causes fears of losing these relational values alongside instrumental values. Yorkshire Dales stakeholders agreed on NBS aims (reducing flooding, limiting wildfires, protecting wild birds), but disagreed on methods to achieve these. Our research supports engaging local stakeholders at all stages of peatland protection schemes to minimise resentment towards top-down management.
Collision term for uniformly magnetized plasmas
Authors: Dong Chao , Zhang Wenlu , Cao Jintao , Li Ding
Published: April 2023

Collision process is crucial to the transport in magnetized plasmas. This article reviews the three typical approaches, i.e. the Fokker-Planck (FP) approach, the Bogoliubov-Born-Green-Kirwood-Yvon (BBGKY) approach, and the quasilinear (QL) approach, to deriving the kinetic equation for weakly coupled uniformly magnetized plasmas. The collision terms derived based on these three approaches are shown to be identical and satisfy the conservation laws and H theorem. Relatively speaking, the BBGKY and QL approaches are more systematic and readily to be generalized from weakly magnetized plasmas to strongly magnetized plasmas. The FP approach is pretty simple for weakly magnetized plasmas and has the advantage that the collision term derived based on it can be naturally separated into two parts, one part arising from the polarization and the other from the correlation of the fluctuating electrostatic field. However, the usual form of the FP equation is not suitable for strongly magnetized plasmas. To derive the magnetized collision term based on the FP approach, a general form of the FP equation for magnetized plasmas has to be found first.
Synthesis optimization and adsorption modeling of biochar for pollutant removal via machine learning
Authors: Zhang Wentao , Chen Ronghua , Li Jie , Huang Tianyin , Wu Bingdang , Ma Jun , Wen Qingqi , Tan Jie , Huang Wenguang
Published: April 2023

Due to large specific surface area, abundant functional groups and low cost, biochar is widely used for pollutant removal. The adsorption performance of biochar is related to biochar synthesis and adsorption parameters. But the influence factor is numerous, the traditional experimental enumeration is powerless. In recent years, machine learning has been gradually employed for biochar, but there is no comprehensive review on the whole process regulation of biochar adsorbents, covering synthesis optimization and adsorption modeling. This review article systematically summarized the application of machine learning in biochar adsorbents from the perspective of all-round regulation for the first time, including the synthesis optimization and adsorption modeling of biochar adsorbents. Firstly, the overview of machine learning was introduced. Then, the latest advances of machine learning in biochar synthesis for pollutant removal were summarized, including prediction of biochar yield and physicochemical properties, optimal synthetic conditions and economic cost. And the application of machine learning in pollutant adsorption by biochar was reviewed, covering prediction of adsorption efficiency, optimization of experimental conditions and revelation of adsorption mechanism. General guidelines for the application of machine learning in whole-process optimization of biochar from synthesis to adsorption were presented. Finally, the existing problems and future perspectives of machine learning for biochar adsorbents were put forward. We hope that this review can promote the integration of machine learning and biochar, and thus light up the industrialization of biochar.

Graphical Abstract
International guideline on natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) for colorectal cancer (2023 version)
Authors: Liu Zheng , Guan Xu , Zhang Mingguang , Hu Xiyue , Yang Ming , Bai Junge , Li Jun , Yu Shaojun , Ding Kefeng , He Qingsi , Kang Liang , Ma Dan , Fu Chuangang , Hu Junhong , Wei Ye , Sun Donghui , Yu Gang , He Songbing , Wang Changyou , Gao Yanwei , Wang Guiyu , Yao Hongliang , Peng Jian , Zheng Yangchun , Jiang Bo , Li Taiyuan , Xiong Zhiguo , Sun Xuejun , Wang Zhenning , Meng William , Chen William Tzu-Liang , Shen Ming-Yin , Marks John H. , Ternent Charles A. , Shaw Darcy D. , Khan Jim S. , Tsarkov Petr , Tulina Inna , Efetov Sergey , da Costa Pereira Joaquim Manuel , Nogueira Fernanda , Escalante Ricardo , Leroy Joel , Saklani Avanish , Dulskas Audrius , Kayaalp Cuneyt , Nishimura Atsushi , Uehara Kay , Lee Woo-Yong , Kim Sang-Hoo , Lee Suk-Hwan , Wang Xishan ,   Committee of Colorectal Cancer Society Chinese Anti-Cancer Association, International NOSES Alliance
Published: April 2023

Purpose

In recent years, natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) has gained widespread attention as an alternative approach. Although the safety and feasibility of NOSES have been well documented, many questions remain open for discussion. The aim of this guideline is to provide more evidence for the promotion of NOSES.

Methods

This guideline has been prepared by the CACA Committee of Colorectal Cancer Society and the International NOSES Alliance, based on the latest evidence.

Results

The guideline on NOSES for colorectal cancer include the definition, classification, technology requirement, indications, technical difficulties and clinical research.

Conclusion

The guideline provides a full introduction of the theoretical and technical aspects of NOSES for colorectal cancer which will beneficial to development of NOSES.
Association of vasopressors with mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mermiri Maria , Mavrovounis Georgios , Laou Eleni , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Pantazopoulos Ioannis , Chalkias Athanasios
Published: April 2023

Exogenous catecholamines may have pronounced side effects and affect physiological cascades. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vasopressors on mortality of critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted for relevant articles until December 2022. Eligibility criteria were randomized controlled and non-randomized trials. The primary outcome was in-hospital and 30-day mortality. The quality of studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) tool, while paired meta-analysis was used to estimate the pooled risk ratios (RR) along with their 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI). Analyses of 22 studies (n = 8034) revealed that vasopressor use is associated with mortality compared to no vasopressor therapy [RR (95%CI): 4.30 (3.21, 5.75); p < 0.001]. In-hospital and 30-day mortality are significantly higher in patients who receive vasopressors [RR (95%CI): 4.60 (2.47, 8.55); p < 0.001 and RR (95%CI): 2.97 (1.72, 5.14); p < 0.001, respectively]. Also, analyses of data from 10 studies (n = 3519) revealed that vasopressor use is associated with acute kidney injury [RR (95%CI): 3.17 (2.21, 4.54); p < 0.001]. In conclusion, current use of vasopressors in critically ill patients with COVID-19 may be associated with higher in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality, and incidence rate of acute kidney injury. Further research is required to estimate the correlation of specific vasopressor characteristics (type, timing, dose, combination) with adverse effects and mortality in this population.

Graphical Abstract
Gut Microbiome Variation Along a Lifestyle Gradient Reveals Threats Faced by Asian Elephants
Authors: Zhang Chengbo , Lian Zhenghan , Xu Bo , Shen Qingzhong , Bao Mingwei , Huang Zunxi , Jiang Hongchen , Li Wenjun
Published: April 2023

The gut microbiome is closely related to host nutrition and health. However, the relationships between gut microorganisms and host lifestyle are not well characterized. In the absence of confounding geographic variation, we defined clear patterns of variation in the gut microbiomes of Asian elephants (AEs) in the Wild Elephant Valley, Xishuangbanna, China, along a lifestyle gradient (completely captive, semicaptive, semiwild, and completely wild). A phylogenetic analysis using the 16S rRNA gene sequences highlighted that the microbial diversity decreased as the degree of captivity increased. Furthermore, the results showed that the bacterial taxon WCHB1-41_c was substantially affected by lifestyle variations. qRT-PCR analysis revealed a paucity of genes related to butyrate production in the gut microbiome of AEs with a completely wild lifestyle, which may be due to the increased unfavorable environmental factors. Overall, these results demonstrate the distinct gut microbiome characteristics among AEs with a gradient of lifestyles and provide a basis for designing strategies to improve the well-being or conservation of this important animal species.
Characteristics of non-accidental injuries in children and adolescents in Asia: a cross-national, multicenter cohort study
Authors: Wang Po-Yuan , Tseng Wei-Chieh , Lee Meng-Chang , Hsu Li-Min , Shin Sang Do , Jamaluddin Sabariah Faizah , Tanaka Hideharu , Son Do Ngoc , Hong Ki Jeong , Riyapan Sattha , Haedar Ali , Chiang Wen-Chu ,   The PATOS Clinical Research Network,   Participating Site Investigators, Rao Ramana , Abraham George P. , Ramakrishnan T. V. , Jamaluddin Sabariah Faiwah , Mohidin Mohd Amin Bin , Saim Al-Hilmi , Kean Lim Chee , Anthonysamy Cecilia , Yssof Shah Jahan Din Mohd , Ji Kang Wen , Kheng Cheah Phee , Ali Shamila bt Mohamad , Ramanathan Periyanayaki , Yang Chia Boon , Chia Hon Woei , Hamad Hafidahwati binti , Ismail Samsu Ambia , Abdullah Wan Rasydan B. Wan , Tanaka Hideharu , Kimura Akio , Velasco Bernadett , Gundran Carlos D. , Convocar Pauline , G.Sabarre Nerissa , Tiglao Patrick Joseph , Hong Ki Jeong , Song Kyoung Jun , Jeong Joo , Moon Sung Woo , Kim Joo-yeong , Cha Won Chul , Lee Seung Chul , Ahn Jae Yun , Lee Kang Hyeon , Yeom Seok Ran , Ryu Hyeon Ho , Kim Su Jin , Kim Sang Chul , Hsu Li-Min , Sun Jen Tang , Wang Ruei-Fang , Hsieh Shang-Lin , Kao Wei-Fong , Riyapan Sattha , Tianwibool Parinya , Buaprasert Phudit , Akaraborworn Osaree , Al Sakaf Omer Ahmed , LLC Saleh Fares , Huy Le Bao , Son Do Ngoc , Van Dai Nguyen ,   Participating Nation Investigators, Ramakrishnan T. V. , Jamaluddin Sabariah Faiwah , Tanaka Hideharu , Velasco Bernadett , Hong Ki Jeong , Sun Jen Tang , Khruekarnchana Pairoj , LLC Saleh Fares , Son Do Ngoc
Published: April 2023

Children and adolescents are vulnerable to non-accidental injury. Early identification and prevention rely on detailed epidemiological studies, which are limited in Asia. This retrospective study used the registry data of Pan-Asian Trauma Outcome Study (PATOS) from October 1, 2015 to December, 31, 2020. Pediatric patients (aged < 20 years) with non-accidental injuries were enrolled, which were divided by age into preschool (0–6 years), child (7–12 years), and adolescent (13–19 years) groups. Baseline characteristics, injury epidemiology, and excess mortality ratio-adjusted injury severity score (EMR-ISS) were collected. Major trauma was defined as an EMR-ISS score > 24. The study enrolled 451 patients with non-accidental injuries, accounting for 2.81% of pediatric trauma events presented to an emergency department in the PATOS registry. The overall mortality rate was 0.9%, similar to those in Western countries. Mortality rate was high in preschool children (8.7%, p = 0.017) than in other age groups. The sex-specific incidence was higher in boys (3.10% vs. 2.13%, p = 0.001). In adolescents, more events occurred on the street (25.9%), whereas home remained the most common locale in girls of all ages. In the multivariable regression analysis, abdominal and multiple injuries were risk factors for major trauma.