bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of seasonal variation on water quality of Hindon River: physicochemical and biological analysis
Authors: Sharma Ruchi , Kumar Ajay , Singh Neetu , Sharma Kritika
Published: January 2021

Water is the basic necessity for a living being and detritions in the quality of water led to many harmful impacts. It is important to regulate the water quality to maintain the balance in all the variation of lives. In the present study, the water samples were collected during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods of February 2015–January 2017 from Mohan Nagar barrage, Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh, India). The assessment of the seasonal variation of water quality and its impact on the Hindon River water was evaluated by physicochemical and biological analysis. Samples were analyzed for twelve physicochemical parameters such as Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Hardness (TH), Nitrate Nitrogen, Phosphates, Sulphates, and Heavy metals (Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb) Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and biological parameters such as Total Coliform count (TCC), Fecal Coliform count (FCC) and Standard Plate count (SPC). Besides this, River Metal Pollution Index and Integrated River Metal Pollution Index were also calculated and found above permissible limits (RMPI > 1 and IMPI > 2). The trend of heavy metal load in the Hindon River water was observed to be Fe > Zn > Pb > Cd. Lower recorded values of DO and higher levels of EC, TDS, BOD, COD, TH, Nitrate Nitrogen, and Sulphates indicate high pollution levels in Hindon River water. TCC (MPN/100 ml) in water samples was found 7.4 × 104 in pre-monsoon season and 5.8 × 104 in a post-monsoon season, FCC (MPN/100 ml) were 4.5 × 104 in pre-monsoon and 3.6 × 104 in a post-monsoon season whereas SPC (CFU/ml) were 75 × 104 in pre-monsoon and 62 × 104 in post-monsoon. Analysis of water quality parameters was performed as per Standard Methods (APHA, 1998). The Correlation coefficient matrix has been obtained to validate the interrelationship between different physicochemical parameters. The results of our study show the necessity of regular monitoring of Hindon River water for the integrity of aquatic flora, fauna, and human health.
Combustion and emission characteristics of a compression ignition engine operated on dual fuel mode using renewable and sustainable fuel combinations
Authors: Yaliwal V. S. , Banapurmath N. R.
Published: January 2021

The present experimental study aims to examine the combustion and emission characteristics of a single cylinder four stroke direct injection diesel engine operated in dual fuel mode using dairy scum oil methyl ester (DiSOME) and its blend (B20)—producer gas combination with and without addition of hydrogen. DiSOME/B20-producer gas combination without hydrogen addition exhibited inferior performance with increased hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions owing to poor physic-chemical properties of both biodiesel and inducted low calorific value gas (producer gas) compared to the same fuel combination with hydrogen. Producer gas was inducted along with air, and hydrogen was allowed to mix with air-producer gas combination in the intake manifold. Experimental investigations were conducted at all load conditions and at constant flow rate of hydrogen (8 lpm). It was noticed that that B20-hydrogen enriched producer gas combination with optimum parameters resulted in amplified thermal efficiency with reduced emission levels compared to the operation with B20/DiSOME-producer gas combination. However, investigation showed that diesel-producer gas combination with hydrogen addition provided amplified brake thermal efficiency by 3.8%, 16.4% and 13.2% compared to the diesel/DiSOME/B20—producer gas combinations, respectively, at 80% load. Hydrogen addition provided enhanced cylinder pressure and heat release rate with reduced emission levels except nitric oxide emissions. It can be concluded that the deprived combustion associated with DiSOME/B20-producer gas combination can be improved with hydrogen addition. The combination of DiSOME-producer gas operation with hydrogen addition is uniqueness of this present work.
Fabrication of reduced graphene oxide modified poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate based transparent conducting electrodes for flexible optoelectronic application
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Singh Karamvir , Kumar Sandeep , Bhatt Kapil , Dwivedi Yashashchandra , Rana Abhimanyu , Tripathi C. C.
Published: January 2021

Present article reports on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) modified poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS) based transparent conducting electrodes for flexible optoelectronic applications. PEDOT: PSS samples embedded with different rGO concentrations i.e. 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 wt% were prepared and later on, bar coated on polyethylene terephthalate substrate using a 30 μm wire size bar. Various parameters including sheet resistance, bending test (outside and inside bending), optical transmittance etc. were estimated. Our analysis indicates that the samples with 1 wt% rGO possess improved results i.e. low sheet resistance (315 ± 8 Ω/sq.) and high transmittance (~ 74%). Additionally, the sample shows low electrical resistance variation up to 12% (maximum increase) during outward bending and 9% (maximum decrease) during inward bending of the sample for bending curvature from 20 to 100 m−1.
Corrosion inhibition, surface adsorption and computational studies of Momordica charantia extract: a sustainable and green approach
Authors: Haldhar Rajesh , Prasad Dwarika , Kamboj Divya , Kaya Savas , Dagdag Omar , Guo Lei
Published: January 2021

The aerial parts extract of Momordica charantia plant were used for the corrosion resistance of carbon steel in the acidic medium (0.5 M H2SO4) utilizing weight loss method, Tafel and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy. The state of mixed inhibitor adsorption on the carbon steel surface is shown by potentiodynamic polarization. M. charantia achieved the extraordinary inhibition efficiency of 93.51% at 500 mg/L of inhibitor concentration. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to know about the thin layer which was formed on the surface of carbon steel for its protection from corrosion and the adsorption of inhibitor was shown by UV–vis. spectroscopic technique. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy technique confirmed the existence of functional groups and the heteroatoms exhibit in the inhibitor. Adsorbance by the inhibitory molecules on the carbon steel surface followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Hypothetical investigations (computational) showed a very valuable report. All acquired outcomes ensure that M. charantia extract can procedure an effectual preventing layer and restrict the corrosion procedure.
Multiverse Theories
Authors: Friederich Simon
Published: January 2021

If the laws of nature are fine-tuned for life, can we infer other universes with different laws? How could we even test such a theory without empirical access to those distant places? Can we believe in the multiverse of the Everett interpretation of quantum theory or in the reality of other possible worlds, as advocated by philosopher David Lewis? At the intersection of physics and philosophy of science, this book outlines the philosophical challenge to theoretical physics in a measured, well-grounded manner. The origin of multiverse theories are explored within the context of the fine-tuning problem and a systematic comparison between the various different multiverse models are included. Cosmologists, high energy physicists, and philosophers including graduate students and researchers will find a systematic exploration of such questions in this important book.
There Is No Planet B
Authors: Berners-Lee Mike
Published: January 2021

Feeding the world, climate change, biodiversity, antibiotics, plastics, pandemics - the list of concerns seems endless. But what is most pressing, and what should we do first? Do we all need to become vegetarian? How can we fly in a low-carbon world? How can we take control of technology? And, given the global nature of the challenges we now face, what on Earth can any of us do, as individuals? Mike Berners-Lee has crunched the numbers and plotted a course of action that is full of hope, practical, and enjoyable. This is the big-picture perspective on the environmental and economic challenges of our day, laid out in one place, and traced through to the underlying roots - questions of how we live and think. This updated edition has new material on protests, pandemics, wildfires, investments, carbon targets and of course, on the key question: given all this, what can I do?
Energy Harvesting
Authors: Georgiadis Apostolos , Collado Ana , Tentzeris Manos M.
Published: January 2021

A thorough treatment of energy harvesting technologies, highlighting RF and hybrid-multiple technology harvesting. Explains the principles of solar, thermal, kinetic and electromagnetic energy harvesting, addresses design challenges, and describes applications. Features an introduction to switched mode power converters and energy storage, and summarizes the challenges of different system implementations, from wireless transceivers to backscatter communication systems and ambient backscattering. This practical resource is essential for researchers and graduate students in the field of communications and sensor technology, in addition to practitioners working in these fields.
Medieval Imagery in Today's Politics
Authors: Wollenberg Daniel
Published: January 2021

The election of fringe political parties on the far and extreme right across Europe since spring 2014 has brought the political discourse of 'old Europe' and 'tradition' to the foreground. Writers and politicians on the right have called for the reclamation, rediscovery, and return of the spirit of national identities rooted in the medieval past. Though the 'medieval' is often deployed as a stigmatic symbol of all that is retrograde, against modernity, and barbaric, the medieval is increasingly being sought as a bedrock of tradition, heritage, and identity. Both characterizations - the medieval as violent other and the medieval as vital foundation - are mined and studied in this book. It examines contemporary political uses of the Middle Ages to ask why the medieval continues to play such a prominent role in the political and historical imagination today.
The Big Reset
Authors: Middelkoop Willem
Published: January 2021

A system reset seems imminent. The world's financial system will need to find a new anchor before the year 2020. Since the beginning of the credit crisis, the US realized the dollar will lose its role as the world's reserve currency, and has been planning for a monetary reset. According to Willem Middelkoop, this reset will be designed to keep the US in the driver's seat, allowing the new monetary system to include significant roles for other currencies such as the euro and China's renminbi. Prepare for the coming Reset In all likelihood gold will be re-introduced as one of the pillars of this next phase in the global financial system. The prediction is that gold could be revalued at $ 7,000 per troy ounce. By looking past the American 'smokescreen' surrounding gold and the dollar long ago, China and Russia have been accumulating massive amounts of gold reserves, positioning themselves for a more prominent role in the future to come. The reset will come as a shock to many. The Big Reset will help everyone who wants to be fully prepared. This fully revised edition of Middelkoop's book takes into account developments since its original publication, which have only strengthened the case for the coming return of gold.
A New Perspective on Antisthenes
Authors: Meijer Piet
Published: January 2021

Antisthenes (c. 445–c. 365 BC), was a prominent follower of Socrates and bitter rival of Plato. In this revisionary account of his philosophy in all its aspects, P. A. Meijer claims that Plato and Aristotle have corrupted our perspective on this witty and ingenious thinker. The first part of the book reexamines afresh Antisthenes' ideas about definition and predication and concludes from these that Antisthenes never held the (in)famous theory that contradiction is impossible. The second part of the book argues that Antisthenes' logical theories bear directly on his activities as an exegete of Homer and hence as a theological thinker. Part three, finally, offers innovative readings of Antisthenes' ethical fragments.
Ossicular chain reconstruction: endoscopic or microscopic?
Authors: Guneri E A , Cakir Cetin A
Published: January 2021

Objective

To compare the results of endoscopic and microscopic ossicular chain reconstruction surgery.

Methods

Patients undergoing ossicular chain reconstruction surgery via an endoscopic (n = 31) or microscopic (n = 34) technique were analysed for age, gender, Middle Ear Risk Index, ossicular chain defect, incision type, ossicular chain reconstruction surgery material, mean air conduction threshold, air–bone gap, air–bone gap gain, word recognition score, mean operation duration and mean post-operative follow up.

Results

Post-operative air conduction, air–bone gap and word recognition score improved significantly in both groups (within-subject p < 0.001 for air conduction and air–bone gap, and 0.026 for word recognition score); differences between groups were not significant (between-subject p = 0.192 for air conduction, 0.102 for air–bone gap, and 0.709 for word recognition score). Other parameters were similar between groups, except for incision type. However, endoscopic ossicular chain reconstruction surgery was associated with a significantly shorter operation duration (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Endoscopic ossicular chain reconstruction surgery can achieve comparable surgical and audiological outcomes to those of microscopic ossicular chain reconstruction surgery in a shorter time.
Differences in mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase activities in trypanosomatids
Authors: Čermáková Petra , Maďarová Anna , Baráth Peter , Bellová Jana , Yurchenko Vyacheslav , Horváth Anton
Published: January 2021

Complex I (NADH dehydrogenase) is the first enzyme in the respiratory chain. It catalyses the electron transfer from NADH to ubiquinone that is associated with proton pumping out of the matrix. In this study, we characterized NADH dehydrogenase activity in seven monoxenous trypanosomatid species: Blechomonas ayalai, Herpetomonas tarakana, Kentomonas sorsogonicus, Leptomonas seymouri, Novymonas esmeraldas, Sergeia podlipaevi and Wallacemonas raviniae. We also investigated the subunit composition of the complex I in dixenous Phytomonas serpens, in which its presence and activity have been previously documented. In addition to P. serpens, the complex I is functionally active in N. esmeraldas and S. podlipaevi. We also identified 24–32 subunits of the complex I in individual species by using mass spectrometry. Among them, for the first time, we recognized several proteins of the mitochondrial DNA origin.
OUT OF THE COFFEE HOUSE OR HOW POLITICAL ECONOMY PRETENDED TO BE A SCIENCE FROM MONTCHRÉTIEN TO STEUART
Authors: Berry Christopher J.
Published: January 2021

The essay investigates the proposition that economic questions are a fit subject for science. This investigation will involve a selective examination of seventeenth-century writings before looking at again selective Enlightenment texts. The essay is deliberately wide ranging, but it aims to pick out the emergence or crystallization of political economy by noting how theorists sought to establish it as a subject matter and in the process develop ways of studying it that aimed to uncover regularities and exhibit generality, systematicity, and precision. Together these supported its pretensions or claims to be a science that would in a Baconian manner be useful and free of the perceived shackles of a moralistic classical disparagement of economic activity.
HOW SHOULD WE RECONCILE SELF-REGARDING AND PRO-SOCIAL MOTIVATIONS? A RENAISSANCE OF “DAS ADAM SMITH PROBLEM”
Authors: Gold Natalie
Published: January 2021

“Das Adam Smith Problem” is the name given by eighteenth-century German scholars to the question of how to reconcile the role of self-interest in the Wealth of Nations with Smith’s advocacy of sympathy in Theory of Moral Sentiments. As the discipline of economics developed, it focused on the interaction of selfish agents, pursuing their private interests. However, behavioral economists have rediscovered the existence and importance of multiple motivations, and a new Das Adam Smith Problem has arisen, of how to accommodate self-regarding and pro-social motivations in a single system. This question is particularly important because of evidence of motivation crowding, where paying people can backfire, with payments achieving the opposite effects of those intended. Psychologists have proposed a mechanism for the crowding out of “intrinsic motivations” for doing a task, when payment is used to incentivize effort. However, they argue that pro-social motivations are different from these intrinsic motivations, implying that crowding out of pro-social motivations requires a different mechanism. In this essay I present an answer to the new Das Adam Smith problem, proposing a mechanism that can underpin the crowding out of both pro-social and intrinsic motivations, whereby motivations are prompted by frames and motivation crowding is underpinned by the crowding out of frames. I explore some of the implications of this mechanism for research and policy.
Equality and Equity in Chinese Higher Education in the Post-massification Era: An Analysis Based on Chinese Scholarly Literature
Authors: Zha Qiang
Published: January 2021

This paper examines several research questions relating to equality and equity in Chinese higher education via an extended literature review, which in turn sheds light on evolving scholarly explorations into this theme. First, in the post-massification era, has the Chinese situation of equality and equity in higher education improved or deteriorated since the late 1990s? Second, what are the core issues with respect to equality and equity in Chinese higher education? Third, how have those core issues evolved or changed over time and what does the evolution indicate and entail? Methodologically, this paper uses a bibliometric analysis to detect the topical hotspots in scholarly literature and their changes over time. The study then investigates each of those topical terrains against their temporal contexts in order to gain insights into the core issues.
Infection prevention and control during COVID-19 pandemic: realities from health care workers in a north central state in Nigeria
Authors: Ilesanmi O. S. , Afolabi A. A. , Akande A. , Raji T. , Mohammed A.
Published: January 2021

Health care workers (HCWs) are vulnerable to the risk of infections and could become vectors of onward transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Little is known about the factors which could contribute to increased COVID-19 infection among HCWs in Nigeria. We aimed at assessing the causes of COVID-19 infection among HCWs. We used a qualitative study design to conduct in-depth interview among 16 frontline HCWs participating in the COVID-19 response in Kwara State, Nigeria. Colaizzi's phenomenological method was used in the qualitative analysis of data. We found that HCWs were aware of their vulnerability to the COVID-19 infection, and the reasons attributed included poor knowledge of IPC measures for COVID-19, inadequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), poor political will and inadequate health facilities (HFs) management support. Improved political will and better involvement of HFs management teams in infection prevention and control (IPC) systems are needed to reduce the risk for COVID-19 infection among HCWs. We recommend scale-up training on IPC measures particularly hand washing and use of PPE as well as the development of effective points of care risk assessment with a high index of suspicion in HFs.
How to (Consistently) Reject the Options Argument
Authors: Campbell Stephen M. , Stramondo Joseph A. , Wasserman David
Published: January 2021

It is commonly thought that disability is a harm or “bad difference” because having a disability restricts valuable options in life. In his recent essay “Disability, Options and Well-Being,” Thomas Crawley offers a novel defense of this style of reasoning (formulated as the Options Argument) and argues that we and like-minded critics of this brand of argument are guilty of an inconsistency. Our aim in this article is to explain why our view avoids inconsistency, to challenge Crawley's positive defense of the Options Argument, and to suggest that this general line of reasoning employs a double standard.
COVID-19 FAQs in paediatric and congenital cardiology: AEPC position paper
Authors: Sendzikaite Skaiste , Heying Ruth , Milanesi Ornella , Hanseus Katarina , Michel-Behnke Ina
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge influence in almost all areas of life, affecting societies, economics, and health care systems worldwide. The paediatric cardiology community is no exception. As the challenging battle with COVID-19 continues, professionals from the Association for the European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology receive many questions regarding COVID-19 in a Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology setting. The aim of this paper is to present the AEPC position on frequently asked questions based on the most recent scientific data, as well as to frame a discussion on how to take care of our patients during this unprecedented crisis. As the times are changing quickly and information regarding COVID-19 is very dynamic, continuous collection of evidence will help guide constructive decision-making.
New Medium, Same Story? Gender Gaps in Book Publishing
Authors: Samuels David J. , Teele Dawn Langan
Published: January 2021

Recent research points to a gender gap in journal-article authorship: women are underrepresented. Given that publishing a book remains central to many political scientists’ careers, this article explores the extent to which gender publication and citation gaps also exist for books. We find that although the gender publication gap for university-press books has narrowed over time, it remains larger than for journal articles. We also find that book-authorship patterns do not reflect the shift toward coauthorship observed for journal articles. Conversely, we find no gender citation gap for books written by one woman. However, books coauthored by coed teams or teams of women receive far fewer citations than books written by one man or one woman or by teams of men.
Gestational exposure to Δ9-THC impacts ovarian follicular dynamics and angiogenesis in adulthood in Wistar rats
Authors: Martínez-Peña Annia A. , Lee Kendrick , Petrik James J. , Hardy Daniel B. , Holloway Alison C.
Published: January 2021

With the legalization of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) and increasing use during pregnancy, it is important to understand its impact on exposed offspring. Specifically, the effects of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the major psychoactive component of cannabis, on fetal ovarian development and long-term reproductive health are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of prenatal exposure to Δ9-THC on ovarian health in adult rat offspring. At 6 months of age, Δ9-THC-exposed offspring had accelerated folliculogenesis with apparent follicular development arrest, but no persistent effects on circulating steroid levels. Ovaries from Δ9-THC-exposed offspring had reduced blood vessel density in association with decreased expression of the pro-angiogenic factor VEGF and its receptor VEGFR-2, as well as an increase in the anti-angiogenic factor thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1). Collectively, these data suggest that exposure to Δ9-THC during pregnancy alters follicular dynamics during postnatal life, which may have long-lasting detrimental effects on female reproductive health.
PPARγ activation in late gestation does not promote surfactant maturation in the fetal sheep lung
Authors: Ren Jiaqi , Lock Mitchell C. , Darby Jack R. T. , Orgeig Sandra , Holman Stacey L. , Quinn Megan , Seed Mike , Muhlhausler Beverly S. , McMillen I. Caroline , Morrison Janna L.
Published: January 2021

Respiratory distress syndrome results from inadequate functional pulmonary surfactant and is a significant cause of mortality in preterm infants. Surfactant is essential for regulating alveolar interfacial surface tension, and its synthesis by Type II alveolar epithelial cells is stimulated by leptin produced by pulmonary lipofibroblasts upon activation by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). As it is unknown whether PPARγ stimulation or direct leptin administration can stimulate surfactant synthesis before birth, we examined the effect of continuous fetal administration of either the PPARγ agonist, rosiglitazone (RGZ; Study 1) or leptin (Study 2) on surfactant protein maturation in the late gestation fetal sheep lung. We measured mRNA expression of genes involved in surfactant maturation and showed that RGZ treatment reduced mRNA expression of LPCAT1 (surfactant phospholipid synthesis) and LAMP3 (marker for lamellar bodies), but did not alter mRNA expression of PPARγ, surfactant proteins (SFTP-A, -B, -C, and -D), PCYT1A (surfactant phospholipid synthesis), ABCA3 (phospholipid transportation), or the PPARγ target genes SPHK-1 and PAI-1. Leptin infusion significantly increased the expression of PPARγ and IGF2 and decreased the expression of SFTP-B. However, mRNA expression of the majority of genes involved in surfactant synthesis was not affected. These results suggest a potential decreased capacity for surfactant phospholipid and protein production in the fetal lung after RGZ and leptin administration, respectively. Therefore, targeting PPARγ may not be a feasible mechanistic approach to promote lung maturation.
Loss of FOXC1 contributes to the corneal epithelial fate switch and pathogenesis
Authors: Li Mingsen , Zhu Liqiong , Liu Jiafeng , Huang Huaxing , Guo Huizhen , Wang Li , Li Lingyu , Gu Sijie , Tan Jieying , Zhong Jing , Wang Bowen , Mao Zhen , Fan Yong , Liu Chunqiao , Yuan Jin , Ouyang Hong
Published: January 2021

Forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) is required for neural crest and ocular development, and mutations in FOXC1 lead to inherited Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome. Here, we find that FOXC1 and paired box 6 (PAX6) are co-expressed in the human limbus and central corneal epithelium. Deficiency of FOXC1 and alternation in epithelial features occur in patients with corneal ulcers. FOXC1 governs the fate of the corneal epithelium by directly binding to lineage-specific open promoters or enhancers marked by H3K4me2. FOXC1 depletion not only activates the keratinization pathway and reprograms corneal epithelial cells into skin-like epithelial cells, but also disrupts the collagen metabolic process and interferon signaling pathways. Loss of interferon regulatory factor 1 and PAX6 induced by FOXC1 dysfunction is linked to the corneal ulcer. Collectively, our results reveal a FOXC1-mediated regulatory network responsible for corneal epithelial homeostasis and provide a potential therapeutic target for corneal ulcer.
Cell-cycle arrest and senescence in TP53-wild type renal carcinoma by enhancer RNA-P53-bound enhancer regions 2 (p53BER2) in a p53-dependent pathway
Authors: Xie Haibiao , Ma Kaifang , Zhang Kenan , Zhou Jingcheng , Li Lei , Yang Wuping , Gong Yanqing , Cai Lin , Gong Kan
Published: January 2021

TP53 is a classic tumor suppressor, but its role in kidney cancer remains unclear. In our study, we tried to explain the role of p53 in kidney cancer through the p53-related enhancer RNA pathway. Functional experiments were used to explore whether P53-bound enhancer regions 2 (p53BER2) has a role in the cell cycle and senescence response of TP53-wild type (WT) renal cancer cells in vitro or vivo. RNA-sequencing was used to identify the potential target of p53BER2. The results showed that the expression level of P53BER2 was downregulated in renal cancer tissues and cell lines, further dual-luciferase experiments and APR-256-reactivated experiments showed p53BER2 expresses in a p53-dependent way. Moreover, knockdown p53BER2 could reverse nutlin-3-induced cytotoxic effect in TP53-WT cell lines. Further exploration showed the downregulation of p53BER2 could reverse nutlin-3-induced G1-arrest and senescence in TP53-WT cell lines. What is more, the knockdown of p53BER2 showed resistance to nutlin-3 treatment in vivo. Additionally, we found BRCA2 could be regulated by p53BER2 in vitro and vivo; further experiment showed p53BER2 could induce cell-cycle arrest and DNA repair by mediating BRCA2. In summary, the p53-associated enhancer RNA-p53BER2 mediates the cell cycle and senescence of p53 in TP53-WT renal cancer cells.
The critical role of T cells in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
Authors: Song Lin , Cao Lijuan , Liu Rui , Ma Hui , Li Yanan , Shang Qianwen , Zheng Zhiyuan , Zhang Liying , Zhang Wen , Han Yuyi , Zhang Xiaoren , Yang Huilin , Wang Ying , Melino Gerry , Shao Changshun , Shi Yufang
Published: January 2021

Glucocorticoids (GC) are widely used clinically, despite the presence of significant side effects, including glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP). While GC are believed to act directly on osteoblasts and osteoclasts to promote osteoporosis, the detailed underlying molecular mechanism of GC-induced osteoporosis is still not fully elucidated. Here, we show that lymphocytes play a pivotal role in regulating GC-induced osteoporosis. We show that GIOP could not be induced in SCID mice that lack T cells, but it could be re-established by adoptive transfer of splenic T cells from wild-type mice. As expected, T cells in the periphery are greatly reduced by GC; instead, they accumulate in the bone marrow where they are protected from GC-induced apoptosis. These bone marrow T cells in GC-treated mice express high steady-state levels of NF-κB receptor activator ligand (RANKL), which promotes the formation and maturation of osteoclasts and induces osteoporosis. Taken together, these findings reveal a critical role for T cells in GIOP.
Interleukin-38 ameliorates poly(I:C) induced lung inflammation: therapeutic implications in respiratory viral infections
Authors: Gao Xun , Chan Paul Kay Sheung , Lui Grace Chung Yan , Hui David Shu Cheong , Chu Ida Miu-Ting , Sun Xiaoyu , Tsang Miranda Sin-Man , Chan Ben Chung Lap , Lam Christopher Wai-Kei , Wong Chun-Kwok
Published: January 2021

Interleukin-38 has recently been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in lung inflammatory diseases. However, the effects of IL-38 in viral pneumonia remains unknown. In the present study, we demonstrate that circulating IL-38 concentrations together with IL-36α increased significantly in influenza and COVID-19 patients, and the level of IL-38 and IL-36α correlated negatively and positively with disease severity and inflammation, respectively. In the co-cultured human respiratory epithelial cells with macrophages to mimic lung microenvironment in vitro, IL-38 was able to alleviate inflammatory responses by inhibiting poly(I:C)-induced overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines through intracellular STAT1, STAT3, p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, MEK, and NF-κB signaling pathways. Intriguingly, transcriptomic profiling revealed that IL-38 targeted genes were associated with the host innate immune response to virus. We also found that IL-38 counteracts the biological processes induced by IL-36α in the co-culture. Furthermore, the administration of recombinant IL-38 could mitigate poly I:C-induced lung injury, with reduced early accumulation of neutrophils and macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, activation of lymphocytes, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and permeability of the alveolar-epithelial barrier. Taken together, our study indicates that IL-38 plays a crucial role in protection from exaggerated pulmonary inflammation during poly(I:C)-induced pneumonia, thereby providing the basis of a novel therapeutic target for respiratory viral infections.
Deletion of IKK2 in haematopoietic cells of adult mice leads to elevated interleukin-6, neutrophilia and fatal gastrointestinal inflammation
Authors: Fischer Karla C. , Daunt Carmel P. , Tremblay Cédric S. , Dias Sheila , Vince James E. , Jabbour Anissa M.
Published: January 2021

The IκB kinase complex, consisting of IKK1, IKK2 and the regulatory subunit NEMO, is required for NF-κB signalling following the activation of several cell surface receptors, such as members of the Tumour Necrosis Factor Receptor superfamily and the Interleukin-1 Receptor. This is critical for haematopoietic cell proliferation, differentiation, survival and immune responses. To determine the role of IKK in the regulation of haematopoiesis, we used the Rosa26Cre-ERT2 Cre/lox recombination system to achieve targeted, haematopoietic cell-restricted deletion of the genes for IKK1 or IKK2 in vivo. We found that the IKK complex plays a critical role in haematopoietic cell development and function. Deletion of IKK2, but not loss of IKK1, in haematopoietic cells led to an expansion of CD11b/Gr-1-positive myeloid cells (neutrophilia), severe anaemia and thrombocytosis, with reduced numbers of long-term haematopoietic stem cells (LT-HSCs), short-term haematopoietic stem cells (ST-HSCs) and multipotential progenitor cells (MPPs), increased circulating interleukin-6 (IL-6) and severe gastrointestinal inflammation. These findings identify distinct functions for the two IKK catalytic subunits, IKK1 and IKK2, in the haematopoietic system.
MicroRNA-153-5p promotes the proliferation and metastasis of renal cell carcinoma via direct targeting of AGO1
Authors: Li Zeyan , Zhao Shuo , Zhu Shiqin , Fan Yidong
Published: January 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been demonstrated to affect the biological processes of cancers and showed great potential for prognostic biomarkers. In this study, we screened differentially expressed miRNAs in ccRCC based on three dimensions of metastasis, prognosis, and differential expression compared to normal tissue using bioinformatics algorithms. MiR-153-5p was identified as a candidate miRNA to promote ccRCC occurrence and progression. Clinically, we found that miR-153-5p was significantly upregulated and related to unfavorable clinical features in ccRCC. Besides, miR-153-5p served as an independent prognostic biomarker. Functionally, miR-153-5p depletion remarkably inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of ccRCC via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling. Furthermore, AGO1 was proved to be a direct target of miR-153-5p. AGO1 is associated with favorable clinical features and exhibited independent prognostic value in ccRCC. Besides, we observed that AGO1 knockdown significantly promoted tumor proliferation and metastasis. Downregulation of AGO1 partly abolished the oncogenic effects of miR-153-5p knockdown. Furthermore, miR-153-5p combined with AGO1 showed more robust prognostic significance in ccRCC. In conclusion, we found that the newly identified miR-153-5p/AGO1 axis was responsible for tumor occurrence and progression via PI3K/Akt signaling, which may therefore provide promising therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for patients with ccRCC.
METTL14-regulated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway via PTEN affects HDAC5-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition of renal tubular cells in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Xu Zhaoxia , Jia Keqi , Wang Hui , Gao Feng , Zhao Song , Li Fan , Hao Jun
Published: January 2021

Histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) belongs to class II HDAC subfamily and is reported to be increased in the kidneys of diabetic patients and animals. However, little is known about its function and the exact mechanism in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Here, we found that HDAC5 was located in renal glomeruli and tubular cells, and significantly upregulated in diabetic mice and UUO mice, especially in renal tubular cells and interstitium. Knockdown of HDAC5 ameliorated high glucose-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HK2 cells, indicated in the increased E-cadherin and decreased α-SMA, via the downregulation of TGF-β1. Furthermore, HDAC5 expression was regulated by PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway by LY294002 treatment or Akt phosphorylation mutation reduced HDAC5 and TGF-β1 expression in vitro high glucose-cultured HK2 cells. Again, high glucose stimulation downregulated total m6A RNA methylation level of HK2 cells. Then, m6A demethylase inhibitor MA2 treatment decreased Akt phosphorylation, HDAC5, and TGF-β1 expression in high glucose-cultured HK2 cells. In addition, m6A modification-associated methylase METTL3 and METTL14 were decreased by high glucose at the levels of mRNA and protein. METTL14 not METTL3 overexpression led to PI3K/Akt pathway inactivation in high glucose-treated HK2 cells by enhancing PTEN, followed by HDAC5 and TGF-β1 expression downregulation. Finally, in vivo HDACs inhibitor TSA treatment alleviated extracellular matrix accumulation in kidneys of diabetic mice, accompanied with HDAC5, TGF-β1, and α-SMA expression downregulation. These above data suggest that METTL14-regulated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway via PTEN affected HDAC5-mediated EMT of renal tubular cells in diabetic kidney disease.
Downregulation of microRNA-9-5p promotes synaptic remodeling in the chronic phase after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wu Jingchuan , Li Hui , He Junchi , Tian Xiaocui , Luo Shuilian , Li Jiankang , Li Wei , Zhong Jianjun , Zhang Hongrong , Huang Zhijian , Sun Xiaochuan , Jiang Tao
Published: January 2021

The level of microRNA-9-5p (miRNA-9-5p) in brain tissues is significantly changed in the chronic phase after traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the effect of miRNA-9-5p on brain function after TBI has not been elucidated. In this study, we used a controlled cortical impact (CCI) model to induce TBI in Sprague–Dawley rats. Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), astrocytes, and neurons were extracted from immature Sprague–Dawley rats and cocultured to reconstruct the neurovascular unit (NVU) in vitro. The results showed that downregulation of miRNA-9-5p in the chronic phase contributed to neurological function recovery by promoting astrocyte proliferation and increasing the release of astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factors around injured brain tissues after TBI. A dual-luciferase reporter assay validated that miRNA-9-5p was a post-transcriptional modulator of thrombospondin 2 (Thbs-2), and downregulation of miRNA-9-5p promoted Thbs-2 expression in astrocytes. Furthermore, we verified that Thbs-2 can promote Notch pathway activation by directly binding to Jagged and Notch. Through in vitro experiments, we found that the expression of synaptic proteins and the number of synaptic bodies were increased in neurons in the NVU, which was constructed using astrocytes pretreated with miRNA-9-5p inhibitor. Moreover, we also found that downregulation of miRNA-9-5p promoted Thbs-2 expression in astrocytes, which activated the Notch/cylindromatosis/transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 pathway in neurons and promoted the expression of synaptic proteins, including post-synaptic density protein 95 and synaptotagmin. Based on these results, miRNA-9-5p may be a new promising prognostic marker and treatment target for TBI.
Apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM) contributes to IL-10-induced anti-inflammatory response through inhibition of inflammasome activation
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyun , Yang Kyungwon , Kim Minsuk , Kim Hee-Sun , Kang Jihee Lee
Published: January 2021

Apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM) modulates the signaling in inflammatory responses, including infection, cancer, or other immune diseases. Recent studies suggest that like interleukin-10 (IL-10), AIM is involved in alternatively activated (M2) macrophage polarization. We aimed to understand whether and how AIM is involved in IL-10-induced inhibition of inflammasome activation and resolution of inflammation. First, we demonstrated that IL-10 induced increases in mRNA and protein expression of AIM in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM). In addition, genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) reduced IL-10-induced AIM expression. We also found that IL-10-induced STAT3 activity enhanced the AIM promoter activity by directly binding the promoter of the AIM gene. Additionally, reduction of LPS/adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-induced IL-1β production and caspase-1 activation by IL-10 was reversed in BMDM from AIM−/− mice. Treatment of BMDM from both wild type (WT) and IL-10−/− mice with recombinant AIM showed the inhibitory effects on IL-1β and IL-18 production and caspase-1 activation. Endogenous and exogenous AIM inhibited apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase activation and recruitment domain (ASC) speck formation. In LPS-induced acute peritonitis, inhibition of IL-1β and IL-18 production in peritoneal lavage fluid (PLF) and serum, reduction of caspase-1 activation in peritoneal macrophages, and reduction of numbers of neutrophils and peritoneal macrophages in PLF by administration of IL-10 were not evident in AIM−/− mice. Our in vitro and in vivo data reveal a novel role of AIM in the inhibition of inflammasome-mediated caspase-1 activation and IL-1β and IL-18 production.
MicroRNA-93/STAT3 signalling pathway mediates retinal microglial activation and protects retinal ganglion cells in an acute ocular hypertension model
Authors: Wang Yayi , Chen Shida , Wang Jiawei , Liu Yaoming , Chen Yang , Wen Tao , Fang Xiuli , Vidal-Sanz Manuel , Jonas Jost B. , Zhang Xiulan
Published: January 2021

Glaucoma is a common neurodegenerative disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Retinal microglia-mediated neuroinflammation is involved in the process of optic nerve damage, but the mechanisms driving this microglial activation remain mostly elusive. Previous investigations reported that microRNAs are associated with the retinal microglial reaction and neural apoptosis. In the present study, we found that microRNA-93-5p (miR-93) played a key role in the reaction of retinal microglial cells in vivo and in vitro. The miR-93 level was significantly reduced in the retinae of rat acute ocular hypertension (AOH) models, which were accompanied by retinal microglial activation, overproduction of inflammatory cytokines, and subsequent retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) death, versus the retinae of controls. The induction of miR-93 overexpression significantly reduced microglial proliferation, migration and cytokine release, inhibited the expression of the target gene signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and p-STAT3, and was associated with a reduced loss of RGCs. Treatment with a STAT3 inhibitor also decreased retinal microglial activation after AOH injury. Taken together, these results suggest that the miR-93/STAT3 pathway is directly related to the downregulation of retinal microglia-mediated neuro-inflammation and showed a neuroprotective effect. Regulating microglial activation through miR-93 may serve as a target for neuroprotective therapy in pathological ocular hypertension.
A strategy based on isocratic and linear-gradient high-speed counter-current chromatography for the comprehensive separation of platycosides from Platycodi radix
Authors: Yu Jinqian , Chang Xiangwei , Peng Huasheng , Wang Xiao , Wang Jutao , Peng Daiyin , Gui Shuangying
Published: January 2021

Eight platycosides and three tautomers of acetylated platycosides were isolated from Platycodi radix by an efficient method combined MCI resin column chromatography with isocratic and linear-gradient high-speed counter-current chromatography.
Structural diversities in centrosymmetric La8S4Cl8La12S8Cl4[SbS3]8 and non-centrosymmetric Ln12S8Cl8[SbS3]4 (Ln = La and Ce): syntheses, crystal and electronic structures, and optical properties
Authors: Zhao Hua-Jun , Liu Peng-Fei , Wu Li-Ming
Published: January 2021

Three thioantimonides charge compensated by Ln/S/Cl cationic layers, namely centrosymmetric La8S4Cl8La12S8Cl4[SbS3]8 and non-centrosymmetric Ln12S8Cl8[SbS3]4 (Ln = La and Ce) have been discovered for the first time.
Predicting the photocurrent–composition dependence in organic solar cells
Authors: Rodríguez-Martínez Xabier , Pascual-San-José Enrique , Fei Zhuping , Heeney Martin , Guimerà Roger , Campoy-Quiles Mariano
Published: January 2021

High-throughput experimental screening and machine-learning algorithms are implemented in a synergic workflow to predict the photocurrent phase space of organic photovoltaic blends. We identify accurate models employing only the materials band gaps.
Engineering nanoreactors for metal–chalcogen batteries
Authors: Boyjoo Yash , Shi Haodong , Tian Qiang , Liu Shaomin , Liang Ji , Wu Zhong-Shuai , Jaroniec Mietek , Liu Jian
Published: January 2021

This review examines the latest research on the design and engineering of nanoreactors for application in metal–chalcogen batteries.
High-efficiency quantum dot light-emitting diodes based on Li-doped TiO2 nanoparticles as an alternative electron transport layer
Authors: Kim Moonbon , Lee Nayeon , Yang Joong Hwan , Han Chang Wook , Kim Hyun-Min , Han Wooje , Park Hyung-Ho , Yang Heesun , Kim Jiwan
Published: January 2021

We report high-efficiency quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) with Li-doped TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) as an alternative electron transport layer (ETL).
Paclitaxel-loaded magnetic nanocrystals for tumor neovascular-targeted theranostics: an amplifying synergistic therapy combining magnetic hyperthermia with chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Shuangyu , Shi Dongsheng , Chen Ling , Yan Yu , Wang Xingqi , Song Yingying , Pu Shengyan , Liang Yijun , Zhao Yang , Zhang Yu , Xie Jun
Published: January 2021

Paclitaxel-loaded magnetic nanocrystals are presented as an integrated imaging-mediated diagnostic and targeted magnetic hyperthermia (TMH)-triggered thermochemotherapeutic platform for application in vivo.
Bioinspired interfacial engineering of a CoSe2 decorated carbon framework cathode towards temperature-tolerant and flexible Zn–air batteries
Authors: Liu Wenxian , Zheng Dong , Zhang Lin , Yin Ruilian , Xu Xilian , Shi Wenhui , Wu Fangfang , Cao Xiehong , Lu Xihong
Published: January 2021

A bioinspired co-operative interface-modulation strategy comprising N doping and structural engineering of a CoSe2–carbon framework composite-based electrode (CoSe2-NCNT NSA) for temperature-tolerant flexible Zn–air batteries.
Co0.7Fe0.3 NPs confined in yolk–shell N-doped carbon: engineering multi-beaded fibers as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for Zn–air batteries
Authors: Long Ling , Liu Haohui , Jia Jianbo , Zhang Yelong , Dong Shaojun
Published: January 2021

A bifunctional electrocatalyst, Co0.7Fe0.3@NCX:Y-T with a unique and porous confinement structure was synthesized for assembling efficient Zn–air batteries.
N-Oxide S–O chalcogen bonding in conjugated materials
Authors: Sinclair Geoffrey S. , Claridge Robert C. M. , Kukor Andrew J. , Hopkins W. Scott , Schipper Derek J.
Published: January 2021

N-Oxide incorporation into thiazole-containing conjugated materials can have substantial effects on both the electronic and physical properties. A notably strong non-covalent S–O interaction is observed between the N-oxide and neighbouring sulfur.
Distributed resilient flocking control of multi‐agent systems through event/self‐triggered communication
Authors: Amirian Neda , Shamaghdari Saeed
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes a distributed control scheme for multi‐agent systems to achieve resilient flocking behaviour via event‐based communication. The control scheme can provide the required connectivity conditions to form a flock in the presence of cyberattacks in the network. This method is presented in a fully distributed manner to avoid the use of global data. The developed event‐triggered update rules can mitigate the influence of the non‐cooperative agents with the weighted mean subsequence‐reduced algorithm and reduce unnecessary communication among them. It is proved that under the proposed method, convergence is guaranteed and there is no Zeno behaviour exhibited inherently. To relax the requirement of continuous monitoring of self‐state, a self‐triggered mechanism is proposed further. Simulation results are given to illustrate the theoretical analysis and show the advantages of the event‐ and self‐triggered controllers.