bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pembelajaran STEM Berbasis Engineering Design Process untuk Siswa Sekolah Alam di Kabupaten Klaten
Authors: Widiastuti Indah , Budiyanto Cucuk Wawan
Published: October 2022

This community service activity aims to improve STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning at a natural school in Klaten through engineering design. STEM is directed as integrated learning between several fields of science, especially those related to mathematics, science (physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science), and IT (Information Technology). Learning is done by introducing several technologies that use wind energy sources. Engineering design process activities are carried out in 3 modules, namely, understanding the context of the problem, experimenting with materials and sail shapes capable of capturing wind energy, and designing windmills according to the results of previous experiments. The learning module is made by a service team with the teacher and then given to parents. Parents are expected to assist children during the implementation of activities. Students are encouraged to use STEM skills in designing windmills.
Three-Dimensional Image of Crustal Density Model: A Case Study in South Kamchatka
Authors: Sidorov M.D. , Nurmukhamedov A.G.
Published: October 2022

—The methodology for building a 3D density model of the Earth’s crust and upper mantle for a crustal block in the South Kamchatka Peninsula is presented. The model is derived from the interpretation of the Bouguer anomaly values and data obtained by deep seismic soundings and electrical prospecting methods. 3D image creation can be viewed as a several phase procedure. At the first step, the area of interest is investigated through a network of intersecting profiles utilized for subsequent modeling depth density sections using the parameter scanning procedure. The a priori data include materials of geophysical surveys and geological, and petrophysical studies as well as results of depth estimation at singular points by the Euler deconvolution method. The next step involves formation of a 3D density matrix from the cross-section models. Coordinates in the cross-section planes are defined in the square grid nodes and converted to plane rectangular coordinates (the SK-42 reference system). A file of the cross-sectional database of density values is thus produced. For area shaving a sparse network of cross-sections, an additional database is derived from grid files of densities mapped horizon-wise. This ultimately results in the creation of the unified databases. A 3D network of cubic unit cells for three-dimensional (voxel) representation of density of the geologic medium is calculated. The model of density of unit cube with edge measuring 4 km was constructed for entire investigated block of the Earth’s crust. The model was detailed by decreasing successively the unit cube edges to 2.0, 1.0, and 0.5 km. The 3D modeling results are presented as block diagrams and density isosurface maps in horizontal slices at different depths. The block diagrams show isosurfaces with densities typical of deep subsurface boundaries and structures. The isosurfaces for densities of 2.75 and 2.90 g/cm3 reflect the morphology of the roof of the crystalline basement, and the lower–upper crust boundary, respectively, while the isosurfaces of 3.20 and 3.33 g/cm3 represent feasible shape of the crust–upper mantle contact. The lower-density zone ubiquitously observed in the investigated crustal block is caused by rock destruction along the deep fault. It is identified in the model with 1 km cubic unit cell side and encompasses the feeding systems of volcanoes, namely: Sopka Asacha (Asacha Volcano), Mutnovskaya Sopka (Mutnovsky Volcano), Gorelaya Sopka (Gorely Volcano), and Vilyuchinskaya Sopka (Vilyuchansky Volcano).The model with a 0.50 km cubic unit cell side shows a 2.85 g/cm3 isosurface, which delineates a column-shaped high-density region. A higher density revealed in the block is assumed to be associated with basite intrusions. 3D density models based on cross-section modeling provide additional information for geodynamic reconstructions, allowing a rough estimation of the geometry of concealed geologic features and their volumes, and can be utilized in 3D modeling to build initial models.
Neglected Maritime Terrain in the Bay of Bengal: An Examination of the Future of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Authors: Phillips Evan
Published: October 2022

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) are some of the most neglected maritime terrain in the world despite their proximity to one of the busiest maritime chokepoints on Earth. Strategic competition in the Bay of Bengal and around the Strait of Malacca necessitates that U.S. strategy carefully considers the implications of having a U.S. presence on the ANI. The United States has the capacity to assist in international law enforcement of illegal, unreported, unregulated (IUU) fishing and piracy as well as ensure the security of international shipping through the Strait of Malacca. The possibility of bilateral exercises that introduce concepts such as expeditionary advanced base operations (EABO) and the use of the U.S. Coast Guard in multiple capacities are real possibilities as well. Perhaps most importantly, the United States can partner with India to leverage China’s Malacca Dilemma and constantly threaten a blockade of Chinese shipping through the Strait of Malacca in a potential conflict. China also aspires to alleviate its Malacca Dilemma.
The Port-Hopping War: Littoral and Amphibious Operations in the War of the Pacific, 1879-1884
Authors: Jamison Tommy
Published: October 2022

The War of the Pacific (1879–84) showcases the development of amphibious warfare during a period of industrialization and technological flux. Historians have traditionally framed Chilean victory in the war as a function of seapower: naval superiority from which victory on land followed as a result. This view underestimates the complex and reciprocal interplay of amphibious and naval operations throughout the conflict. The war can be better understood as a campaign of port hopping, enabled by maritime capacity and naval power, but reliant on amphibious elements to achieve political results and sustain Chilean sea control. In exploring the relationship(s) between amphibious and naval operations in the War of the Pacific, this article historicizes the emergence of modern amphibious warfare as a component of seapower in the industrial era.
The Cyber Sea: Conflict and Security
Authors: Doherty Kevin
Published: October 2022

The interchange that drives world economics in the past now intersects with and will rest on the electromagnetic spectrum’s (EMS) structure that includes cyberspace. Historically, the world’s oceans played this crucial role in great power competition, but today that key geography now sits within the EMS’s exponential exchange in services between nations for maximal productivity output in free and open markets. The U.S. military must help sustain these crucial lines of communication to channel the spirit and capacity of their nation’s people into the new activities that war calls for and efficiently employ them against a threat. Sea lines of communication were of foremost importance in this regard until now, when the EMS, tapped by cyberspace, connects the most amount of people and their productivity to win the next conflict. Cyberspace has consumed the sea.
Evaluating Stimulation Effectiveness with Permanent Optical Fiber and Sealed Wellbore Pressure Monitoring: Bakken Shale Case Study
Authors: Cipolla Craig , McKimmy Michael , Hari-Roy Stephanie , Wolters Jennifer , Haffener Jackson , Haustveit Kyle , Almasoodi Mouin
Published: October 2022

In 2019, the operator embarked on a data acquisition project in the Bakken, an unconventional shale play in the USA, with the goal of mapping far-field drainage and characterizing completion performance. The project consisted of a six-well pad (10,000-ft laterals) with a dedicated observation lateral located in the Three Forks formation instrumented with cemented pressure gauges and external optical fiber along the 10,000-ft lateral. The observation lateral was offset by Middle Bakken (MB) wells ~450 ft on either side (~900-ft MB-MB well spacing). One of the offset MB wells was instrumented with external optical fiber for cluster-level completion measurements and fracture hit detection.

Characterizing hydraulic fracture geometry is critical to improving completion designs and optimizing well spacing. Until recently, microseismic has been the primary diagnostic for estimating “bulk” or stage-level fracture geometry (Warpinski 2009) and parent-child interactions for modern multicluster plug-and-perf completions (Cipolla et al. 2018). However, microseismic cannot provide details on individual fractures or cluster-level measurements. With the continued advances in fiber-optic technologies, we can measure cluster-level fracture behavior at the wellbore and in the far field (Ugueto et al. 2016, 2019). Characterizing the relationship between wellbore and far-field fracture geometry, referred to as fracture morphology, is important when simultaneously optimizing completion design and well spacing. Microseismic and fiber optics are very robust, but expensive, technologies, and this limits the frequency of their application. The recent introduction of sealed wellbore pressure monitoring (SWPM) enables lower-cost, higher-volume data acquisition but may not provide the same level of detail compared with microseismic and fiber-optic measurements.

This paper presents a case history that details the application of permanent fiber optics and SWPM to characterize fracture geometry and morphology using distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) for near-wellbore (NWB) measurements along with SWPM and crosswell strain for far-field investigation.

This is the first example of both NWB and far-field optical fiber measurements being used to evaluate cluster efficiency in conjunction with SWPM. The SWPM results compared favorably with the fiber measurements; stages with more uniform distribution based on the NWB DAS data also had higher volume to first responses (VFRs) measured using crosswell strain and SWPM.
Magnitude and Predictors of Anaemia among Pregnant women attending Antenatal Clinics in Dar es salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Mvandal Samson Peter , kumbunja Peter Lawrence , Lupoly Godfrey , Nhandi Joseph Shugha
Published: October 2022

Background: Anaemia in pregnancy have been a cause of serious concern and burden as it contributes significantly to high maternal mortality worldwide. This study aims to explore how big the burden of anaemia in pregnant women is, how it can be reduced during antenatal clinic in order to minimize risks and complications of anaemia among pregnant women.
Method: An analytical cross-sectional study design used, involved 560 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at three regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam region, Tanzania, from January to June 2022. Those willing to participate and met inclusion criteria were included in the study. Data was collected by interview through a structured questionnaire. Analysis of data was done using SPSS v25.0, (p<0.001) considered statistical significant.
Results: A total of 560 pregnant women were interviewed. The prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy is high about 70.9% whereby 61.2% participants had mild anaemia, 33.2% participants had moderate anaemia and 25.6% participants had severe anaemia. Significant associations were found between age, education level, marital status, Less ANC attendance (<3 visit), lack of health insurance and lack of employment among pregnant women.
Conclusion: Prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy women is still high and its predictors highly affect its control. Hence the ministry of health in collaboration with other stakeholders should develop policies, educating community on the importance of antenatal visit for early detection and treatment of anaemia and impacting knowledge to medical personnel in management of anaemia in pregnancy and associated complications in order to decrease maternal mortality rate.
Dose-response prediction for in-vitro drug combination datasets: a probabilistic approach
Authors: Rønneberg Leiv , Kirk Paul D.W. , Zucknick Manuela
Published: October 2022

In this paper we propose PIICM, a probabilistic framework for dose-response prediction in high-throughput drug combination datasets. PIICM utilizes a Permutation-Invariant version of the Intrinsic Co-regionalization Model for multi-output Gaussian Process regression, to predict dose-response surfaces in untested drug combination experiments. Coupled with an observation model that incorporates experimental uncertainty, PIICM is able to learn from noisily observed cell-viability measurements in settings where the underlying dose-response experiments are of varying quality, utilize different experimental designs, and the resulting training dataset is sparsely observed. We show that the model can accurately predict dose-response in held-out experiments, and the resulting function captures relevant features indicating synergistic interaction between drugs.
Historical Trends of Aquatic Invasive Species Introduction and Establishment in Illinois, USA
Authors: Cranberg Carter , Keller Reuben
Published: October 2022

Tracking the introduction and establishment of aquatic invasive species (AIS) is important for monitoring the biological and economic health of freshwater environments. The state of Illinois (USA) is a critical region for understanding the threats of AIS because it possesses the only continuous aquatic habitat connecting the Laurentian Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins. In this study, we update a previous effort to catalogue and evaluate historical AIS records from Illinois. Our updated database shows that there are now at least 92 nonindigenous aquatic species established in Illinois and a further 51 have been recorded as introduced but not established. This is many more species than reported in the earlier database, with this increase made possible due to improved access to data and a longer timeframe of analysis. Rates of introduction and establishment have continued to increase in Illinois over the past century, and we identify new groups of organisms that were not in the previous database. Current sampling efforts are not sufficient to detect the number of invaders present and additional non-native species may be present but not yet recorded. Illinois is likely to remain an important hub for the introduction and spread of invasive aquatic species with implications for freshwater ecosystems across the continent.
Molecular Docking and Analysis of some Ligands on Var2csA Target
Authors: Okeke Ifeanyichukwu
Published: October 2022

Prevalence of malaria during pregnancy and the spate of drug resistance by malaria parasites have constantly impacted maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Inhibiting binding; or displacement of bound infected erythrocytes from the placenta as an adjunct treatment or vaccine for malaria was considered an option towards ending pregnancy associated malaria in this study. Molecular modeling and toxicity predictors used in this study indicated that among the ligands screened, IH3 had the lowest binding energy of -9.8Kcal/mol while var2csA had − 2.8Kcal/mol. Var2csA is parasite’s adhesive protein. It was also observed that out of the 90 ligands (binding affinity range − 9.8 to -1.0 Kcal/mol) screened, IH3 (-9.8Kcal/mol), FAD (-8.4 Kcal/mol), NDP (-8.2 Kcal/mol), A5A (-8.2 Kcal/mol), ABO (-8.1 Kcal/mol), IH2 (-7.8 Kcal/mol), 2RT (-7.7 Kcal/mol), CRO (-7.7 Kcal/mol) and IH1 (-7.7 Kcal/mol) appear to be the most promising lead compounds to occupy var2csA binding pocket in pCSA in order to prevent adhesion of malaria infected erythrocytes to the placenta. SwissADME and Molinspiration Cheminformatics for LogP (mean of 1.07 and range of -2.79 to 4.18) of the lead compounds showed no correlations between lipophilicity and interaction with receptors. Of all the compounds selected for analysis, only ABO and 2RT exhibited drug-like properties based on Ghose, Lipinski and Veber filters. The data therefore suggests that IH3, FAD, NDP, A5A, ABO, IH2, 2RT, CRO, IH1 and var2csA make favourable lead candidates for targeting pCSA and therefore require further in vitro and in vivo evaluations.
Metabolic ecology in aquatic ecosystems: viewed from trophic compartments and communities in food webs
Authors: Aoki Ichiro
Published: October 2022

A different perspective on metabolic ecology is presented using food web data, based on the metabolic traits (biomass, respiration, and production) of trophic compartments and communities in aquatic ecosystems (coastal areas, shelves and estuaries in marine ecosystems, and lake ecosystems), including primary producers (phytoplankton and aquatic plants). The relationships among these metabolic traits in aquatic communities are expressed through power laws; hence, the value of one of the three metabolic traits provides the values of the other two. Noteworthy, these metabolic traits are related to those of primary producers according to various power laws. In other words, the metabolic traits of communities can be estimated from those of primary producers alone. These power laws appear to be universal in marine ecosystems, but vary among different lake ecosystems.
Decrypting the programming of β-methylation in virginiamycin M biosynthesis
Authors: Collin Sabrina , Cox Russell , Paris Cédric , Jacob Christophe , Chagot Benjamin , Weissman Kira , Gruez Arnaud
Published: October 2022

During biosynthesis by multi-modular trans-AT polyketide synthases (PKSs), polyketide structural space can be expanded by conversion of initially-formed electrophilic β-ketones into β-alkyl groups. These multi-step transformations are catalysed by 3-hydroxy-3-methylgluratryl synthase (HMGS) cassettes of enzymes. While mechanistic aspects of these reactions have been delineated, little information is available concerning how the cassettes select the specific polyketide intermediate(s) to target. Here we use integrative structural biology to identify the basis for substrate choice in module 5 of the virginiamycin M trans-AT PKS. Additionally, we show in vitro that module 7, at minimum, is a potential additional site for β-methylation. Indeed, analysis by HPLC-MS coupled with isotopic labelling and pathway inactivation, identifies a metabolite bearing a second β-methyl at the expected position. Collectively, our results demonstrate that several control mechanisms acting in concert underpin β-branching programming. Furthermore, imperfections in this control – whether natural or by design – open up avenues for diversifying polyketide structures towards high-value derivatives.
Tailored exercise management (TEMPO) versus usual care for people aged 80 years or older with hip/knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial.
Authors: Nicolson Philippa , Holden Melanie A , Marian Ioana R , Williamson Esther , Dutton Susan J , Garrett Angela , Hopewell Sally , Lamb Sarah E
Published: October 2022

Background
Exercise is recommended for all people with osteoarthritis. However, these recommendations are based on randomised clinical trials including people with an average age between 60 and 70 years, and these findings cannot reliably be generalised to people aged 80 years or older. Rapid loss of muscle occurs after 70 years of age, and older people are more likely to also have other health conditions that contribute to difficulties with daily activities and impact on their response to exercise. To improve care for people aged 80 or older with osteoarthritis, it is thought that a tailored exercise intervention targeting both osteoarthritis and any other health conditions they have, may be needed. The aim of this study will be to test if it is possible to conduct a randomised controlled trial (RCT) for people over 80 years of age with hip/knee osteoarthritis of a tailored exercise intervention.
Methods
A multicentre, parallel, 2-group, feasibility RCT with embedded qualitative study, conducted in ≥ 3 UK NHS physiotherapy outpatient services. Participants (n ≥ 50) with clinical knee and/or hip osteoarthritis and ≥ 1 comorbidity will be recruited by screening referrals to participating NHS physiotherapy outpatient services, via screening of general practice records and via identification of eligible individuals from a cohort study run by our research group. Participants will be randomised (computer-generated: 1:1) to receive either: a 12-week education and tailored exercise intervention (TEMPO); or usual care and written information. The primary feasibility objectives are to estimate: 1) ability to screen and recruit eligible participants; 2) retention of participants, measured by the proportion of participants who provide outcome data at 14-week follow-up. Secondary quantitative objectives are to estimate: 1) participant engagement assessed by physiotherapy session attendance and home exercise adherence; 2) sample size calculation for a definitive RCT. One-to-one semi-structured interviews will explore the experiences of trial participants and physiotherapists delivering the TEMPO programme.
Discussion
Progression criteria will be used to determine whether a definitive trial to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the TEMPO programme is considered feasible with or without modifications to the intervention or trial design.
Trial Registration:
ISRCTN75983430. Registered 3/12/2021. https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN75983430
Data-driven analysis of the local current distributions of 316L stainless steel corrosion in NaCl solution
Authors: Coelho Leonardo Bertolucci , Torres Daniel , Bernal Miguel , Paldino Gian , Bontempi Gianluca , Ustarroz Jon
Published: October 2022

This investigation proposes using Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy (SECCM) as a high throughput tool to collect corrosion activity datasets from randomly probed locations on electropolished 316L SS. In the presence of chloride (varying concentrations), potentiodynamic polarisation tests (varied scan rates) triggered the development of pitting corrosion. Data science methods were deployed to handle, explore, and store the 955 j Vs E curves (public datasets). Normality tests and fitting with theoretical functions were used to understand the conditional log(j) distributions at different potentials. Unimodal and uniform distributions were assigned to the passive and pitting regions. Our local strategy aligned with “big-data” analysis revealed a potential-dependent distribution of log(j), with the amount of randomness increasing with the testing aggressiveness.
Genome-wide identification of protein binding sites in mammalian cells
Authors: Liu Fenglin , Ma Tianyu , Zhang Yu-xiang
Published: October 2022

DNA-protein interactions play an important role in basic biological processes and are crucial for understanding gene regulatory networks. However, traditional techniques for studying DNA-protein interactions, such as chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays, can only map the genome-wide binding sites of single proteins one-time with ChIP-grade antibodies. Here we describe a strategy, called genome-wide protein binding site capture (GWPBS-Cap), which can be used to map genome-wide protein binding sites (PBSs) without using antibodies. In the procedure, DNA and DNA-binding proteins are cross-linked with formaldehyde, and the cross-linked chromatin is sonicated and conjugated to magnetic beads using Sulfo-SMCC. Before the cross-linking step, nuclei are washed with buffers containing different concentrations of NaCl. Using this technique we identified many PBSs with different tolerances for NaCl, and obtained an unprecedented view of the genome-wide binding patterns of many DNA binding proteins. By referring to a transcription factor database, we predicted thousands of transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) among the PBSs. Some PBSs bind single TFs, others multiple TFs. Usually PBSs that bound multiple TFs had stronger binding strengths and were present in the higher NaCl tolerance groups. In addition, active promoters contained more PBSs with lower NaCl tolerances. We conclude that GWPBS-Cap can be used to efficiently identify PBSs and generate a genome-wide landscape of DNA-protein interactions.
Nutritional supplementation and enhanced antioxidant function by dietary intake of selenoneine and other selenium compounds in red seabream Pagrus major
Authors: Shimokawa Yutaro , Abe Kanako , Ohura Mami , Yamamoto Mana , Ando Hitoshi , Tofuku Takuma , Yamashita Michiaki , Kondo Masakazu
Published: October 2022

Selenoneine, 2-selenyl-Nα, Nα, Nα-trimethyl-L-histidine, is the major organic selenium compound in marine fish. To characterize biological antioxidant function of selenoneine in fish, the accumulation of selenoneine and other selenium compounds, i. e., sodium selenite and selenomethionine, in the muscle and other tissues of red seabream. We reared red seabream by feeding of 1% dry pellet containing of sodium selenite, selenomethionine, or selenoneine of body weight twice a day for 4 weeks. After that, we replaced to 1% of normal commercial dry pellet of body weight twice a day for 1 week from the selenium supplementation, and tissue distribution of total selenium was determined. Selenium supplementation with selenoneine, selenomethionine, and sodium selenite enhanced selenium accumulation in the white muscle, kidney, and hepatopancreas in comparison with the control group. By the dietary intake of selenoneine, total selenium concentrations were increased in the white muscle, heart, kidney, spleen, hepatopancreas, brain, and blood in a dose-dependent manner during the trials after 2 weeks. Dietary intake of selenoneine as well as sodium selenite and selenomethionine reduced ORP.
Exploiting convergent evolution to derive a pan-cancer cisplatin response gene expression signature
Authors: Scott Jacob , Scarborough Jessica , Eschrich Steven , Torres-Roca Javier , Dhawan Andrew
Published: October 2022

Precision medicine offers remarkable potential for the treatment of cancer, but is largely focused on tumors that harbor actionable
mutations. Gene expression signatures can expand the scope of precision medicine by predicting response to traditional
(cytotoxic) chemotherapy agents without relying on changes in mutational status. We present a novel signature extraction
method, inspired by the principle of convergent evolution, which states that tumors with disparate genetic backgrounds may
evolve similar phenotypes independently. This evolutionary-informed method can be utilized to produce signatures predictive
of response to over 200 chemotherapeutic drugs found in the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer Database. Here, we
demonstrate its use by extracting the Cisplatin Response Signature, CisSig, for use in predicting a common trait (sensitivity
to cisplatin) across disparate tumor subtypes (epithelial-origin tumors). CisSig is predictive of cisplatin response within the
cell lines and clinical trends in independent datasets of tumor samples. Finally, we demonstrate preliminary validation of
CisSig for use in muscle-invasive cancer, predicting overall survival in patients who undergo cisplatin-containing chemotherapy.
This novel methodology can be used to produce robust signatures for the prediction of traditional chemotherapeutic response,
dramatically increasing the reach of personalized medicine in cancer.
Correlation and significance of clinical multi-factors in children with growing pain
Authors: Sun Yimeng , Liu Yongdong , Zhang Jing , Hu Qiang , Liu Yutong , Shang Xifeng
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To explore each factor's relationship and clinical significance by analyzing and comparing multiple clinical factors between children with growing pain and normal children.

Methods

The clinical data of 100 children with growing pain and 400 normal children from March 2022 to October 2022 in the Pediatric Surgery Clinic of Weifang People's Hospital were collected, including 61 males and 39 females, the mean age was 55.39 ± 27.97 months. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 software and paired independent samples t-test was used to compare groups.

Results

The medial ankle distance in the growing pain group (4.37 ± 2.12cm) was greater than that in the control group (1.81 ± 1.00cm) (P < 0.001); in the growing pain group, the medial ankle distance in overweight children (5.72 ± 2.79cm) was greater than that in normal weight children (4,10 ± 1.84cm), the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.0035); there was no significant difference in weight and height between the two groups (p > 0.05). 64% of the children who were followed up for more than half a year improved significantly.

Conclusion

Compared with normal children, the medial ankle distance in children with growing pain increased significantly, indicating that it was related to genu valgum; no difference in weight and height was found between the two groups; however, the overweight children in the growing pain group had significant medial ankle distance. The children's predilection age, age group distribution, pain location, and medical record have specific clinical characteristics. This analysis has particular clinical significance for the further understanding and treatment of growing pains.
Level of Evidence: II
Land plant evolution and volcanism led to the Late Devonian mass extinction
Authors: Smart Matthew , Filippelli Gabriel , III William Gilhooly , Ozaki Kazumi , Reinhard Christopher , Marshall John , Whiteside Jessica
Published: October 2022

The evolution of land plants in terrestrial environments brought about one of the most dramatic shifts in the history of the Earth system — the birth of modern soils — and likely stimulated massive changes in marine biogeochemistry and climate. In particular, multiple marine mass extinctions characterized by widespread anoxia, including the Late Devonian mass extinction around 375 million years ago (Ma), may have been linked to terrestrial nutrient release driven by newly-rooted landscapes. Here, we use recently generated constraints from Earth’s lacustrine rock record as variable inputs in an Earth system model of the coupled C-N-P-O2-S biogeochemical cycles in order to evaluate whether recorded changes to phosphorus fluxes would be adequate to sustain Devonian marine biogeochemical perturbations and extinction dynamics. Results show that globally scaled riverine phosphorus export during the Late Devonian mass extinction generates widespread marine anoxia and produces carbon isotope, temperature, oxygen, and carbon dioxide perturbations generally consistent with the geologic record. Similar results for a competing extinction mechanism, large scale volcanism, suggest the Late Devonian mass extinction was likely multifaceted with both land plants and volcanism as contributing factors.
Improving STEM scale calibration reliability with scanning noise correction and image registration
Authors: Kang Min-Chul , Park Juhong , Jo Kyu-Jin , Lee Jung Hye , Yang Cheol-Woong
Published: October 2022

In conventional scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) calibration, an image of a known specimen is taken and, the length is determined based on the known spacing appearing in the image. However, in high-magnification images, the accuracy of scale calibration decreases as the effect of scanning noise, which can be caused by the vibration of equipment, the instability of AC power and temperature, etc., increases. In this report, we introduce a calibration method for STEM, including scanning noise correction and image registration using a Si single-crystal image. The validity of the calibration method was confirmed by verifying the lattice parameter of an example sample of Cu3Al. The validation results show that the calibration can be more reliable by reducing the influence of scanning noise, allowing the lattice parameters to be accurately measured with a relative error of less than 3%.
Fe-Nanoparticle Effect on Polypropylene for Effective Radiation Protection. Simulation and theoretical study.
Authors: Alshipli Marwan , Aladailah MUTAZ , Marashdeh M.W. , Akhdar H. , Tashlykov O.L. , Al-Tamimi Walaa
Published: October 2022

In this study, polymer nanocomposite materials based on polypropylene and iron nanoparticles are evaluated for their gamma-neutron shielding capabilities. The chemical composition of these materials is (100-x) PP-Fex, (where x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2 and 5 weight percent). Using the Geant4 Monte Carlo code, the mass attenuation coefficient(MAC), a crucial parameter for studying the gamma-ray shielding capabilities, was determined for the proposed polymer samples in the photon energy range of 30-2000 KeV. The results were compared to those predicted by the EpiXS programme. The values of the Geant4 code and the EpiXS software were both found to be in excellent agreement. The linear attenuation coefficients, electron density, effective atomic number, and half value layer for all the concerned samples were then determined for each sample using the mass attenuation coefficient values. Additionally, the polymer samples' neutron shielding properties were evaluated by estimating both the fast neutron removal cross-section and the mean free path of the fast neutron in the energy ranging between 0.25-5.5 KeV. The findings show that as the polymer sample's Fe nanoparticle content rises, the PP-Fe polymer samples' gamma-ray shielding efficacy changes. Among the examined glasses, the PP-Fe5 polymer sample offers the best gamma-ray shielding ability. Finally, the PP-Fe5 polymer sample containing 5 mol% of Fe, has the highest ∑R value (1.10650 cm−1) and the lowest value of the fast neutron mean free path. This means that the PPFe5 possesses better neutron shielding efficiency.
Living with type 1 diabetes in Neno, Malawi: A qualitative study
Authors: Drown Laura , Adler Alma , Schwartz Leah N. , Sichali Junious , Valeta Francis , Boudreaux Chantelle , Trujillo Celina , Ruderman Todd , Bukhman Gene
Published: October 2022

Background
The prevalence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is thought to be growing in low-income countries such as Malawi, despite a lack of epidemiological data and published literature in many areas. In low-income countries, T1D care is frequently impacted by challenges in diagnosis and management, including misdiagnosis and access to insulin, which can increase prevalence of severe complications and affect T1D outcomes. Access to high-quality T1D care remains limited in Malawi, with fairly low availability and high cost of insulin as well as other supplies and diagnostics, lack of T1D knowledge, and absence of readily accessible guidelines. In the Neno district, Partners In Health established advanced care clinics at district hospitals provide comprehensive, free care for T1D and other noncommunicable diseases. Here we seek to examine the impact of living with T1D, knowledge and self-management, and facilitators and barriers to T1D care in this district.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative study consisting of interviews conducted in Neno, Malawi with people living with type 1 diabetes (PLWT1D), their families, providers, and civil society members to explore the psychosocial and economic impact of living with T1D, T1D knowledge and self-management, and facilitators and barriers to accessing care.
Results
This study found that PLWT1D had good knowledge and practice of self-management activities for T1D. Key facilitators to care identified by informants included extensive patient education and availability and provision of free insulin and supplies. Significant barriers included distance from health facilities, food insecurity, and low literacy/numeracy. Informants described T1D as having a notable psychosocial and economic impact on PWLT1D and their families, notably worrying about having a lifelong condition, high transportation costs, and reduced ability to work. While home visits and transport refunds helped facilitate access to the clinic, informants reported the refunds as inadequate given high transport costs faced by patients.
Conclusions
T1D was found to have a significant impact on PLWT1D and their families. Our findings represent important areas of consideration in design and implementation of effective programs for treating PLWT1D in resource-limited settings. Facilitators to care identified by informants may be applicable and beneficial in similar settings, while persisting barriers represent areas for continued improvement in Neno.
Predictive modeling of optimism bias using gray matter cortical thickness
Authors: Kotikalapudi Raviteja , Moser Dominik A. , Dricu Mihai , Spisak Tamas , Aue Tatjana
Published: October 2022

Optimism bias (OB) is an expectancy bias, where people expect irrationally good future outcomes for themselves. Predictive modeling for OB would open new opportunities for estimating an overall state of well-being and understanding clinical conditions such as depression. To our knowledge, this is the first study attempting to address OB implementing a dedicated machine-learning based predictive modeling. We calculate people’s OB via a soccer paradigm, where participants rate their comparative chances for a successful outcome against their rival (i.e., personal OB) and a rival team (social OB). Later, using gray matter cortical thickness (CT) in a machine-learning framework, we predict both POB and SOB. Our results reveal a significant brain structure-based predictive model for experimentally assessed POB (Pearson’s r = 0.41, p = 0.006). Strongest predictors include left rostral and caudal ACC, right pars orbitalis and entorhinal cortex, all shown to have a role in OB before. Our confounder analysis suggests that the predictions are predominantly driven by CT measures and are not corrupted by demographic data (e.g., age and sex). There were no predictors recognized for estimating SOB. More of such predictive models on a large-scale data platform are needed, to help us understand positive psychology and individual well-being.
Insights into the enumeration of mixtures of probiotic bacteria by flow cytometry
Authors: Tracey Harry , Coates Niall , Hulme Eleri , John Daniel , Michael Daryn , Plummer Susan
Published: October 2022

The use of flow cytometry to enumerate microorganisms is gaining traction over the traditional plate count technique on the basis of superior accuracy, precision and time-to-result. Here, we assessed the suitability of live/dead flow cytometry for the enumeration of mixed populations of probiotic bacteria whilst comparing outcomes with plate counting. Using a novel gating strategy designed specifically for the enumeration of mixed populations, the application of flow cytometry resulted in the detection of higher numbers of viable bacteria with a greater level of repeatability than plate counting. However, when the probiotic mixtures contained preparations with high numbers of non-viable cells in their total population, there was a potential for overestimation of the viable population. Nevertheless, the comparative plate counts of these mixtures were low and variable, thus supporting the use of flow cytometry for the enumeration of viable bacteria in mixed populations.
Design of hole matrix unit for high precision batch hole making of acoustic lining assembly of aero-engine
Authors: Gong Qinghong , Li Liang , Luo Pan , Chen Jie , Yuan Xinman , Ma Ke , Hu Zhiqin
Published: October 2022

Acoustic lining assemblies with millions of high-density array holes are key structures for high-performance and low-noise aero engines. However, the material specificity, variable curvature shape structure, high-order number of holes, and small-sized hole spacing of acoustic lining assemblies pose great challenges to the hole-making technology. In this paper, in view of the machining requirements of millions of acoustic lining holes, a hole matrix unit design method for batch hole making is proposed. The optimal hole matrix unit dimension is calculated with the angle deviation of normal vector as the constraint by matching the structural features of the acoustic lining assembly, dividing and interpolating the hole-making surface, and solving the normal vector of the hole position. The experimental results shows that the proposed hole matrix unit design method can effectively control the angle deviation of normal vector of the acoustic lining holes and ensure the processing accuracy of the holes.
Abnormal variations of the key genes in osteoporotic fractures
Authors: Wang Bin , Pan Lei
Published: October 2022

Objective: The classical osteoporotic signaling pathways include the four key genes(LRP5, Runx2, Osterix, and RANKL) influencing the regulation of osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. This study investigates the variations of these four genes in bone specimens associated with fractures in osteoporotic rats.
Methods: Osteoporotic rats (Ovariectomised rats) as an osteoporotic group were randomly divided into three groups-group A, group B, and group C. Non-osteoporotic rats as control group were likewise divided into three groups-A0, B0 and C0, using the same method. The rats were killed on the third day of fractures in groups A and A0, on the seventh day of fractures in groups B and B0, and on the fourteenth day of fractures in groups C and C0. The bone specimens were taken from the femur, and
expression level of each gene in the bone specimens was detected using RT-qPCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry.
Results: LRP5, Runx2, and Osterix expressions were decreased in osteoporotic rat fractures and then increased over time. The expression of RANKL was elevated in osteoporotic rat bone specimens, which decreased after that.
Conclusion: The four genes can inform practice in ideal interventions in the prevention and management of osteoporosis.
Proteasomal stimulation by MK886 and its derivatives can rescue tau-induced neurite pathology
Authors: Liao Elly E. , Yang Mu , Braun Anthony R , Ferguson David , Sachs Jonathan N
Published: October 2022

Proteasomal degradation of intrinsically disordered proteins, such as tau, is a critical component of proteostasis in both ageing and neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we investigated proteasomal activation by MK886 (MK). We previously identified MK as a lead compound capable of modulating tau oligomerization in a cellular FRET assay and rescuing P301L tau-induced cytotoxicity. We first confirmed a robust proteasomal activation by MK using a cellular proteasomal tau-GFP cleavage assay. We then show that MK treatment can significantly rescue tau-induced neurite pathology in differentiated SHSY5Y neurospheres. Due to this compelling result, we designed a series of seven MK analogs to determine if proteasomal activity is sensitive to structural permutations. Using a combination of proteasome, tau aggregation, neurite outgrowth, inflammation, and autophagy assays, we identified two essential substituents of MK that are required for compound activity: 1) Removal of the N-chlorobenzyl group from MK negated both proteasomal and autophagic activity and reduced neurite outgrowth; and 2) removal of the indole-5-isopropyl group significantly improved neurite outgrowth and autophagy activity but reduced its anti-inflammatory capacity. Overall, our results suggest that the combination of proteasomal/autophagic stimulation and anti-inflammatory properties of MK and its derivatives can decrease tau-tau interactions and help rebalance dysfunctional proteostasis. Further development of MK to optimize its proteasomal, autophagic, and anti-inflammatory targets may lead to a novel therapeutic that would be beneficial in ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.
Endovascular Treatment of Aorto-iliac Occlusive Disease with TASC II C and D Lesions: Ten Year’s Experience of Clinical Technique
Authors: Dong Xiangjun , Peng ZiQian , Zheng Chuansheng , Ren Yanqiao , Su Yangbo , Liang Huimin , Sun Tao , Chen Lei
Published: October 2022

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of endovascular treatment aorto-iliac occlusive disease (AIOD) with TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus II (TASC II) C and D lesions. In addition, ten years of experience with interventional procedures and treatment options in our center were also worthy of further discussion.
Methods: Between January 2011 and December 2020, a total of 26 consecutive AIOD patients with TASC-II C and D lesions treated endovascular approach were enrolled in this study. Patients' demographic and clinical data were collected, and the safety and efficacy of endovascular therapy were evaluated. In addition, operation procedures were also described.
Results: The mean age of patients was 62.2±7 years (49-57 years), and the mean body mass index of patients was 24.2±2.6 kg/m2. Fifteen patients (57.7%) were Rutherford 4, 5 each (19.2%) were Rutherford 3 and 5, and 1 (3.8%) was Rutherford 2. No other serious complications occurred except death in 3 patients. Most of the patients (73.1%) had a history of smoking, and hypertension and hyperlipidemia were common comorbidities. Endovascular therapy was successfully performed in 25 patients, and the technical success rate was 96.2%. The patient's ankle-brachial index improved significantly postoperatively compared with preoperatively (preoperative 0.33±0.14 vs 1.0±0.09, P<0.001). The primary patency rates were 100%, 95.7%, and 91.3% at 1, 3, and 5 years, while the secondary patency rates were 100%. No treatment-related deaths or serious complications occurred.
Conclusions: Endovascular treatment of AIOD patients with TASC-II C and D lesions is safe and has a high rate of middle-term and long-term primary patency.
Revealing the novel pyroptosis-related therapeutic targets for sepsis based on the machine learning
Authors: Chen Ying , wang xingkai , Wang Jiaxin , Zong Junwei , Wan Xianyao
Published: October 2022

Background
Sepsis is one of the most lethal diseases worldwide. Pyroptosis as a unique form of cell death and the mechanism of interaction with sepsis is not yet clear. The aim of this study is to uncover pyroptosis genes associated with sepsis and to provide early therapeutic targets for the treatments of sepsis.
Methods
Based on the GSE134347 dataset, sepsis-related genes were mined by differential expression analysis and WGCNA. Subsequently, the sepsis-related genes were analyzed for enrichment and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. We performed unsupervised consensus clustering of sepsis patients based on 33 pyroptosis related genes (PRGs) provided by prior reviews. We finally obtained the PRGs mostly associated with sepsis by machine learning prediction models combined with the GeneCards database and prior reviews. The GSE32707 dataset served as an external validation dataset to validate the model and PRGs via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. NetworkAnalyst online tool was utilized to create a ceRNA network of lncRNAs and miRNAs around PRGs mostly associated with sepsis.
Results
A total of 170 genes associated with sepsis and 13 hub genes were acquired by WGCNA and PPI network. The results of the enrichment analysis implied that these genes were mainly involved in the regulation of the inflammatory response and the positive regulation of bacterial and fungal defense responses. Prolactin signaling pathway and IL-17 signaling pathway were the primary enrichment pathways. Thirty-three PRGs can effectively classify septic patients into two subtypes, implying that there is a reciprocal relationship between sepsis and pyroptosis. Eventually, NLRC4 was considered as the PRG most strongly associated with sepsis. The validation results of the prediction model and NLRC4 based on ROC curves were 0.74 and 0.67, respectively, both of which showed better predictive values. Meanwhile, the ceRNA network consisting of 6 lncRNAs and 2 miRNAs was constructed around NLRC4.
Conclusion
NLRC4 as the PRG mostly associated with sepsis could be considered as a potential target for treatment. The 6 lncRNAs and 2 miRNAs centered on NLRC4 could serve as a further research direction to uncover the deeper pathogenesis of sepsis.