bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Heterostructured Carbon Materials as Anodes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Rui , Sun Ning , Xu Bin
Published: October 2021

Carbon materials have attracted extensive attention as anodes for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) because of the abundant resources, low cost, and diverse structure. Due to the different structure configurations, hard carbons, soft carbons, as well as nanocarbons present distinct electrochemical Na‐storage behaviors and properties. The diverse structural and chemical characteristics of carbon materials’ precursors have paved pathways to construct a robust carbon‐based heterostructure with enhanced electrochemical performances. This review comprehensively discusses the fabrication of carbon‐based heterostructures, including hard–hard, hard–soft, and hard–nano heterostructures, with a focus on the formation processes and the benefits of these heterostructures in Na‐ion storage. Furthermore, the key obstacles and potential production of such heterostructures are explored, disclosing future structural design of high‐performance carbon‐based anode materials for SIBs.
LncRNA LINC00115 facilitates lung cancer progression through miR‐607/ITGB1 pathway
Authors: Wu Bin , Xue Xingkui , Lin Shaoming , Tan Xing , Shen Guanle
Published: October 2021

Dysregulated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have potential roles in various cancer types. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression and the underlying role of long intergenic nonprotein coding RNA 115 (LINC00115) in lung cancer. The relative expression of LINC00115 and miR‐607 in tumor tissues and cells was detected by real‐time PCR. After overexpression or knockdown of LINC00115 expression in tumor cells, the changes in the proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities were detected via Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and transwell assays. The interplay among LINC00115, miR‐607, and integrin β1 (ITGB1) was confirmed by bioinformatics analyses and luciferase reporter assay. In addition, tumor cells with LINC00115 knockdown were injected into nude mice to investigate the effect of LINC00115 on tumorigenesis in vivo. LINC00115 was highly expressed in tumor tissues and cells. LINC00115 promoted the malignant properties of tumor cells. Investigation to its molecular mechanism revealed that LINC00115 functioned as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), regulating the expression of ITGB1 by sponging miR‐607 to affect tumor growth. The LINC00115/miR‐607/ITGB1 signaling axis might be a novel therapeutic target in lung cancer.
Mechanical buckling analysis of functionally graded composite laminated plates reinforced with temperature dependent graphene sheets resting on elastic foundation
Authors: Abbaspour Fatemeh , Arvin Hadi , Kiani Yaser
Published: October 2021

Present study aims to investigate the mechanical buckling including the shear buckling and the in‐plane mechanical buckling of composite laminated plates reinforced with graphene sheets with temperature dependent features resting on Winkler‐Pasternak elastic foundation in a thermal ambient. The governing equations in the framework of the first order shear deformation theory are attacked by the Ritz method. The plate is subjected to uniaxial, biaxial and shear loads. The innovation of the present paper is considering the temperature dependency and anisotropicity of the material properties of a nanocomposite layer that reinforced with graphene sheets for the purpose of the determination of the mechanical buckling treatment of a graphene reinforced composite (GRC) laminated plate with different boundary condition types. Resorting to the extended Halpin–Tsai micromechanical model, the thermo‐mechanical characteristics of a lamina is defined. Numerical outcomes of the present study are confirmed with the presented data in the literature. The effects of the elastic foundation parameter, the temperature, the plate side to its thickness ratio, the layup scheme, the boundary condition type and the distribution pattern of graphene‐reinforced composites on the critical buckling load are investigated. It is found that, the impact of elastic foundation incorporation is less visible on the critical shear buckling load rather than the critical uniaxial and biaxial mechanical loads. Moreover, the largest critical buckling load belongs to layup [0]10 among the all under studied lamination schemes.
Financial spillovers, spillbacks, and the scope for international macroprudential policy coordination
Authors: Agénor Pierre-Richard , Pereira da Silva Luiz A.
Published: October 2021

This paper discusses the scope for international macroprudential policy coordination in a financially integrated world economy. It begins with a review of the transmission channels associated with, and the empirical evidence on, financial spillovers and spillbacks. Limitations of the existing literature are also identified. The potential gains associated with cross-border macroprudential coordination, dwelling on both recent analytical contributions and quantitative studies based on multi-country models with financial frictions, are then evaluated. The issue of whether coordination of macroprudential policies simultaneously requires some degree of monetary policy coordination is also discussed. The analysis focuses on the potential for policy coordination between major advanced economies and a group identified assystemically-important middle-income countries(SMICs). Next, practical ways to promote international macroprudential policy coordination are considered. Following a discussion of Basel III’s Principle of reciprocity and ways to improve it, the paper advocates a further strengthening of the current statistical, empirical and analytical work conducted by international financial institutions to evaluate, and raise awareness of, the gains from international coordination of macroprudential policies.
Assessment of the Effects of Environmental Concentrations of Microplastics on the Aquatic Snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum
Authors: Romero-Blanco Alberto , Remón-Elola Adrián , Alonso Álvaro
Published: October 2021

Microplastics are ubiquitous in aquatic ecosystems. They can be found at the surface, in the water column, and in sediments. Multiple negative impacts of microplastics on aquatic organisms have been reported, with most studies focusing on marine ecosystems. However, the effects of microplastics on freshwater ecosystems have been less studied, with a few studies focusing on benthic invertebrates. In this study, we exposed the New Zealand mud snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843) to an environmental range of concentrations of polystyrene microparticles (size range from 0.01 to 514 µm at 100, 500, and 1000 mg microplastics/kg dry weight (dw) of sediment) and two supra-environmental concentrations (2000 and 4000 mg/kg dw sediment). The impacts of the exposure to microplastics on mortality, behavior, and reproduction were assessed at long-term exposure (31 days). Mortality and reproduction were not significantly affected by microplastics. On the contrary, most of the microplastic treatments altered the behavior, causing a significant increase in reaction time compared with controls (0 mg microplastics/kg dw sediment). The highest concentration (4000 mg/kg) did not have an impact on the reaction time over the experimental period compared with controls. To our knowledge, this study is the first to assess the effects of microplastics on the behavior of the aquatic snail P. antipodarum. Our results showed that at environmental concentrations, the behavior of P. antipodarum was the most sensitive variable to the adverse effects of polystyrene microplastics.
2020 Syndemic: Convergence of COVID-19, Gender-Based Violence, and Racism Pandemics
Authors: Khanlou Nazilla , Vazquez Luz Maria , Pashang Soheila , Connolly Jennifer A. , Ahmad Farah , Ssawe Andrew
Published: October 2021

Objective

To conduct a rapid knowledge synthesis of literature on the social determinants of mental health of racialized women exposed to gender-based violence (GBV) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We adapted the Cochrane Rapid Reviews method and were guided by an equity lens in conducting rapid reviews on public health issues. Four electronic databases (Cochrane CENTRAL, Medline, ProQuest, and EBSCO), electronic news media, Google Scholar, and policy documents were searched for literature between January 2019 and October 2020 with no limitations for location. Fifty-five articles qualified for the review.

Results

Health emergencies heighten gender inequalities in relation to income, employment, job security, and working conditions. Household stress and pandemic-related restrictions (social distancing, closure of services) increase women’s vulnerability to violence. Systemic racism and discrimination intensify health disparities.

Conclusion

Racialized women are experiencing a2020 Syndemic: a convergence of COVID-19, GBV, and racism pandemics, placing their wellbeing at a disproportionate risk. GBV is a public health issue and gender-responsive COVID-19 programming is essential. Anti-racist and equity-promoting policies to GBV service provision and disaggregated data collection are required.
Differences between Facebook and Instagram Usage in Regard to Problematic Use and Well-Being
Authors: Limniou Maria , Ascroft Yasmin , McLean Sarah
Published: October 2021

Although the association of well-being (e.g., self-esteem, depression symptoms, and loneliness) with Facebook usage (i.e., number of friends and frequency of use) has been investigated by many researchers, only a limited number of studies have scrutinised Facebook against Instagram use. The aim of this study is not only to address this literature gap but also to explore whether problematic use and well-being differ between Facebook and Instagram users in relation to the number of received “likes” and Facebook friends/Instagram followers, as well as the importance of these “likes” and friends/followers. Sixty-nine Facebook users and 66 Instagram users completed an online questionnaire, including self-esteem, loneliness, depression, and problematic Internet use items. Overall, Instagram users exhibited significantly higher problematic use behaviour compared to Facebook users. Age and importance of “followers” were negatively associated with problematic use of Instagram, whilst only the importance of “likes” was negatively associated with Facebook. The number of Facebook “friends” was positively associated with depressive symptoms, but this was not the case for the number of Instagram “followers”. It is important to note that the number of “likes” was only negatively associated with self-esteem, but there was no association with loneliness. A potential explanation between the differences in the two platforms and well-being might be related to their different functionalities, for example, Instagram is an image-oriented platform that may boost users’ self-esteem through post “likes” but only when the users are strongly connected.
Mammoth Ivory Rods in Eastern Beringia: Earliest in North America
Authors: Wygal Brian T. , Krasinski Kathryn E. , Holmes Charles E. , Crass Barbara A. , Smith Kathlyn M.
Published: October 2021

The Holzman archaeological site, located along Shaw Creek in interior Alaska, contained two mammoth ivory rods, of which one is bi-beveled, within a stratigraphically sealed cultural context. Dated 13,600–13,300 cal BP, these are the earliest known examples of osseous rod technology in the Americas. Beveled ivory, antler, and bone rods and points share technological similarities between Upper Paleolithic Europe, Asia, eastern Beringia, and the Clovis tradition of North America and are important tool types in understanding the late Pleistocene dispersal of modern humans. The Holzman finds are comparable to well-known Clovis tradition artifacts from Anzick (Montana), Blackwater Draw (New Mexico), East Wenatchee (Washington), and Sherman Cave (Ohio). We describe these tools in the broader context of late Pleistocene osseous technology with implications for acquisition and use of mammoth ivory in eastern Beringia and beyond.
The everyday emotional lives of aid workers: how humanitarian anxiety gets in the way of meaningful local participation
Authors: Hor Amoz J. Y.
Published: October 2021

Participatory approaches to humanitarianism, peacebuilding, and international development promise to listen to the voices of local aid beneficiaries. However, aid workers often listen to these voices through reductive narratives of aid beneficiaries, ventriloquizing their voice and inhibiting meaningful participation. Why do aid workers – despite humane intentions – continue to rely on reductive narratives? This paper inquires how the everyday emotional lives of aid workers make reductive narratives persist. Based on 65 semi-structured interviews in Singapore, Jakarta, and Aceh, and 40 aid worker books and blogs, I show how aid workers regularly experience emotional anxieties that question their complicity in the suffering of others and their powerlessness to do anything about it. Reductive narratives resonate and persist because they allow aid workers to cope with these anxieties. I illustrate the emotional resonance of three reductive narratives – civilizing; romanticized; and impersonal narratives – in three common practices of local participation in aid work: professionalized standards; visiting the field; and hiring locals. Given the emotional origins of reductive narratives, rational critique is insufficient for reforming or decolonizing aid work. Rather, change must also involve engaging the underlying emotions of aid workers.
Risk of COVID-19 diagnosis and death in patients with mental illness: a cohort study
Authors: Seon Jeon-Yeon , Kim Sunjea , Hong Minha , Lim Min Kyoung , Oh In-Hwan
Published: October 2021

Aims

Patients with mental illness are vulnerable to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection because of behavioural changes associated with cognitive deterioration, especially without their caregivers. While studies have reported that SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and severe clinical outcomes are high among patients with mental illness, there is a lack of quantitative research supporting this claim. This study investigates if SARS-CoV-2 infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related death are higher in patients with mental illness than among those without a mental disorder.

Methods

A cohort study was conducted using the COVID-19 database of the National Health Insurance Service in South Korea. A total of 123 480 patients aged ⩾20 years who visited a hospital between 1 January 2020 and 30 May 2020 were analysed. Mental disorder diagnoses and types were determined based on 2019 medical records, and a multivariate logistic regression model was used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) for SARS-CoV-2 infection and deaths.

Results

The ORs for SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR 1.58; 95% CI 1.45–1.71) and COVID-19-related death (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.57–3.04) were high among patients with mental illness. The OR of SARS-CoV-2 infection was higher among patients with severe mental illness (OR 2.60; 95% CI 2.21–3.06), dementia (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.62–2.22) and substance use disorder (OR 4.98, 95% CI 3.60–6.88). The OR for COVID-19-related death was high among patients with severe mental illness (OR 3.53; 95% CI 1.82–6.83) and dementia (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.39–3.22).

Conclusions

Patients with mental illness are at high risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-related death. Behavioural changes associated with cognitive deterioration and long-term care facility residence increase SARS-CoV-2 infection risk, and severe medical conditions and delayed treatment increase the COVID-19-related mortality risk in patients with mental illness. Patients with mental illness are a priority target population for COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and it is important to plan prevention measures that address their needs.
Promoting urinary continence with nonpharmacological interventions in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Kohler Myrta , Schwarz Jürg , Saxer Susi
Published: October 2021

Abstract. Background: The evidence of nonpharmacological interventions promoting urinary continence in Parkinson’s disease is low and rehabilitation nurses do not give it a high priority. Aim: To examine the effects of a urinary incontinence management program on continence and quality of life in persons with Parkinson’s disease in inpatient rehabilitation. The acceptance of the intervention and the knowledge of the nurses were also of interest. Methods: A nonrandomized experimental study was conducted. The data collection commenced with a control group followed by an intervention group. A structured urinary incontinence management was performed in the intervention phase. This includes incontinence assessment, care planning, individual interventions, discharge planning, and telephone support at home. Results: Urinary continence and quality of life were enhanced in both groups; however, improvements were higher in the intervention group but the differences were not significant. Knowledge of the nurses about urinary incontinence improved during the study duration. The acceptance of the intervention was high. Conclusions: A structured urinary continence management may improve urinary continence in persons suffering from Parkinson’s disease. In clinical practice it is important to perform a detailed assessment to identify problems regarding urinary incontinence.
Effect of Cylindrical THF Hydrate Veins on the Undrained Behavior of Fine‐Grained Soils
Authors: Priest Jeffrey A. , Hayley Jocelyn L. , Wu Jiechun
Published: October 2021

Gas hydrate filled fractures and veins readily occur in fine‐grained deep water marine sediments that increase sediment strength and restrict sediment consolidation. Subsequent hydrate destabilization can dramatically reduce sediment strength, which may lead to slope failures. To investigate the undrained behavior a series of consolidated undrained (CU) triaxial tests were carried out on fine‐grained soils containing cylindrical tetrahydrofuran (THF) hydrate veins of varying diameter to mimic naturally occurring hydrate‐bearing clays. Axial compressions tests on stand‐alone hydrate veins showed brittle failure with axial stresses reasonably independent of vein diameter and confining stress and thought related to development of bending stresses and tensile cracking. Reduced axial strain rates led to ductile behavior, potentially suppressing tensile crack development, resulting in slightly higher failure stresses. CU shear tests on hydrate‐bearing specimens showed increasing strength and stiffness with increasing vein diameter and confining stress, although the impact of confining stresses reduced for the largest diameter veins. Using a Mohr‐Coulomb failure criteria, increased strength was associated with increase in cohesion and reduction in friction angle. The enhanced strength would reduce consolidation processes that would lead to sediment instabilities if the hydrate was destabilized. However, for larger diameter veins, increasing lateral stresses from the soil reduced buckling stresses with significant plastic deformation of the THF veins being observed at the end of tests, suggesting a strain rate dependent behavior. Further research is required to fully understand this behavior and its impact on sediment consolidation to fully consider the relationship between hydrate dissociation and sediment instability.
Probabilistic Assessment of Extreme Heat Stress on Indian Wheat Yields Under Climate Change
Authors: Zachariah Mariam , Mondal Arpita , AghaKouchak Amir
Published: October 2021

The wheat belt along the Indo‐Gangetic Plains (IGP) in India is an emergent hotspot of climate change‐driven crop loss threatening local food security. Using statistical Generalized Linear Models, observed temperature and wheat production data, we show an increase in magnitude, frequency and areal extent of heat stress episodes in the IGP region during 1967–2018. Such episodes comprise of temperatures exceeding a senescence‐inducing threshold. Further, using a copula‐based multivariate framework, we probabilistically assess wheat production conditioned on heat stress indicators, both in the historical period and also in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) future projections. Probabilistic estimates of below‐average wheat production under scenario‐averaged heat stress conditions are expected to rise by 8%–27% under the SSP5‐8.5 scenario, with Punjab showing the largest increase. Quantitative links between heat stress indicators and loss of crop yield highlight increased agricultural vulnerability in India under climate change.
Optical Signatures Associated With Streamers and Leaders of Laboratory Discharges
Authors: Arcanjo M. , Montanyà J. , Urbani M. , Lorenzo V.
Published: October 2021

This work investigates the strongest optical emissions associated with long laboratory sparks (at the wavelengths of 337 and 777 nm) with the aim to understand similar emissions in lightning. The processes of the long‐spark formation are studied by using optical measurements, current signatures, and short‐time exposure images. Blue optical emissions (337 nm) are associated with streamer development and negative leader stepping, and the optical pulses have good correlation with current pulses. Red optical emissions (777 nm) are mainly associated with stable leader propagation, when this irradiance is predominant over the blue one. The results indicate that formations of stems from positive leaders also produce emissions at 777 nm. This work aims to support satellite‐based measurements that perform optical measurements in the same wavelength ranges.
Bereaved Parents’ Health Outcomes Following the Death of Their Child
Authors: Dias Nancy , Friebert Sarah , Donelan Jennifer , Schoemann Alexander M. , Morris Ashley , Guard Kaitlin , Grossoehme Daniel H.
Published: October 2021

Objective: The death of one’s child may negatively affect parental health. Existing models exploring parental bereavement do not provide sufficient frameworks to understand the complexities of health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the health status of bereaved parents. Method: Cross-sectional retrospective study of bereaved parents whose children died at this hospital between 2002 and 2019. A study-specific demographic questionnaire, the National Institutes of Health Roadmap Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) initiative. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the PROMIS v1.0 Emotional Distress–Depression—Short Form 8a ( Pilkonis et al., 2011 ). PROMIS measures (depressive symptoms, anxiety, applied cognitive functioning, physical functioning, sleep disturbance), and a measure of posttraumatic growth were mailed and included a link to self-enter data via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap, n.d. ) or return paper copies. Results: One hundred fifty surveys were returned (22% response rate). Mean participant age was 41.6 years ( SD = 10.3 years; 83% female). Participants’ health history responses show greater prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleep disorders after their child’s death. The largest difference on PROMIS measures was poorer physical function in the bereaved cohort than in the general population. There were no differences in PROMIS scores based on participant gender or on the presence of surviving siblings. Among those reporting smoking or alcohol consumption, qualitative data suggest that although some might increase use, such use might decrease over time. Conclusions: Bereaved parents manifest poorer psychological and cognitive functioning, and their physical functioning was substantially poorer than the general population mean. Bereaved parents may benefit from proactive guidance normalizing potential challenges to health status and behavior, including appropriate psychoeducational resources.

Implications for Impact Statement

Bereaved parents have poorer physical and mental health when compared with the general population. Clinicians that care for these parents must offer health promotion and disease prevention measures early to improve their long-term health outcomes.
Loss of TRIM31 promotes breast cancer progression through regulating K48- and K63-linked ubiquitination of p53
Authors: Guo Yafei , Li Qin , Zhao Gang , Zhang Jie , Yuan Hang , Feng Tianyu , Ou Deqiong , Gu Rui , Li Siqi , Li Kai , Lin Ping
Published: October 2021

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the world. Relapse and metastasis are important factors endangering the life of breast cancer patients, but the mechanism is still unclear. The stabilization of p53 is essential for preventing carcinogenesis, and ubiquitination is one of the main ways to regulate the stability of p53. Tripartite motif-containing 31 (TRIM31) is a new member of the TRIM family and functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. It acts as a cancer promoter or suppressor in the malignant processes of multiple cancers. However, the function of TRIM31 in breast cancer progression remains unknown. In this study, we showed that TRIM31 is downregulated in breast cancer tissues and negatively correlated with breast cancer progression. Both gain- and loss-of-function assays indicated that TRIM31 inhibits the proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells. Further investigation demonstrated that TRIM31 directly interacts with p53, and inducing the K63-linked ubiquitination of p53 via its RING domain, Meanwhile, TRIM31 suppresses the MDM2-mediated K48-linked ubiquitination of p53 through competitive inhibiting the interaction of MDM2 and p53, leading to the p53 stabilization and activation. Knockdown of p53 reversed the inhibitory effects of TRIM31 on the growth and metastasis of breast cancer cells. Moreover, we found that the RING and coiled-coil (C–C) domains of TRIM31 were essential for its tumor suppressor function. Taken together, our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which TRIM31 suppresses breast cancer development through the stabilization and activation of p53 and define a promising therapeutic strategy for restoring TRIM31 to treat breast cancer.
CircNPHP4 in monocyte-derived small extracellular vesicles controls heterogeneous adhesion in coronary heart atherosclerotic disease
Authors: Xiong Feng , Mao Rui , Zhang Lijuan , Zhao Ruohan , Tan Kunyue , Liu Chunxia , Xu JunBo , Du Guanghong , Zhang Tongtong
Published: October 2021

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs)-derived circular RNAs (circRNAs) could regulate gene expression in recipient cells, and dysregulation of sEVs-derived circRNAs has been implicated in several diseases. However, the expression and function of sEVs-derived circRNAs in coronary heart atherosclerotic disease (CAD) remain unknown. In this study, we investigated global changes in the expression patterns of circRNAs in sEVs from CAD-related monocytes and identified circNPHP4 as a significantly upregulated circRNA. Knockdown of circNPHP4 inhibited heterogeneous adhesion between monocytes and coronary artery endothelial cells and reduced ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression. Investigations of the underlying mechanisms revealed that circNPHP4 contains a functional miR-1231-binding site. Mutation of the circNPHP4-binding sites in miR-1231 abolished the interaction, as indicated by a luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, circNPHP4 affected the expression of miR-1231 and its target gene EGFR. Overexpression of miR-1231 blocked the inhibitory effect of circNPHP4 on heterogeneous adhesion. Moreover, downregulation of miR-1231 restored heterogeneous adhesion upon inhibition by circNPHP4 silencing. Additionally, circNPHP4 overexpression was correlated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics in CAD patients. A multivariate logistic regression model and bootstrapping validation showed that circNPHP4 overexpression had a good risk prediction capability for CAD. The decision curve analysis revealed that using the CAD nomogram that included circNPHP4 overexpression to predict the risk of CAD was beneficial. Our results suggest that sEVs-derived circNPHP4 can serve as a potential target for CAD treatments or as a potential diagnostic marker for CAD patients.
The FOXM1/RNF26/p57 axis regulates the cell cycle to promote the aggressiveness of bladder cancer
Authors: Yi Lu , Wang Haohui , Li Wei , Ye Kun , Xiong Wei , Yu Haixin , Jin Xin
Published: October 2021

Bladder cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in the world. Despite the continuous development of medical technologies and therapeutic strategies, the overall survival rate of bladder cancer has not changed significantly. Targeted therapy is a new promising method for bladder cancer treatment. Thus, an in-depth study of the molecular mechanism of the occurrence and development of bladder cancer is urgently needed to identify novel therapeutic candidates for bladder cancer. Here, bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that RNF26 was one of the risk factors for bladder cancer. Then, we showed that RNF26 is abnormally upregulated in bladder cancer cells and tissues and that higher RNF26 expression is an unfavorable prognostic factor for bladder cancer. Moreover, we found that RNF26 promotes bladder cancer progression. In addition, we showed that RNF26 expression is promoted by FOXM1 at the transcriptional level through MuvB complex. The upregulated RNF26 in turn degrades p57 (CDKN1C) to regulate the cell cycle process. Collectively, we uncovered a novel FOXM1/RNF26/p57 axis that modulates the cell cycle process and enhances the progression of bladder cancer. Thus, the FOXM1/RNF26/p57 signaling axis could be a candidate target for the treatment of bladder cancer.
Upregulation of CPNE7 in mesenchymal stromal cells promotes oral squamous cell carcinoma metastasis through the NF-κB pathway
Authors: Ji Xiaoli , Sun Tianyong , Xie Shang , Qian Hua , Song lixiang , Wang lihua , Liu Hongwei , Feng Qiang
Published: October 2021

A remarkable shift in Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) plays an important role in cancer metastasis, but the molecular mechanism is still unclear. CPNE7, a calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein, mediates signal transduction and metastasis in many tumours. Here, we demonstrated that MSCs derived from OSCC (OSCC-MSCs) promoted the metastasis of OSCC cells by transwell assay and animal models through epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) (p < 0.05). RNA-sequencing, ELISA, neutralizing antibody and CXCR2 inhibitor assay confirmed that CXCL8 secreted by OSCC-MSCs was associated with the upregulated expression of CPNE7 by immunohistochemical and western blotting (p < 0.05). This is mechanistically linked to the activation of CPNE7 to NF-κB pathway-induced metastasis, including phosphorylated p65 and IκBa. CPNE7 silencing inhibited metastatic abilities and the expression of CXCL8, phosphorylated p65, IκBa, and p65 nuclear translocation by western blotting and immunofluorescence, while CPNE7 overexpression markedly promoted these events (p < 0.05). We also identified that Nucleolin could be bind CPNE7 and IκBa by co-immunoprecipitation. Together, our results suggest that upregulation of CPNE7 in MSCs interacted with surface receptor -Nucleolin and then combined with IκBa to promoted phosphorylated IκBa and p65 nuclear translocation to active NF-κB pathway, and then regulates CXCL8 secretion to promote the metastasis of OSCC cells. Therefore, CPNE7 in MSCs could be promising therapeutic targets in OSCC.
The Hsc70 disaggregation machinery removes monomer units directly from α-synuclein fibril ends
Authors: Schneider Matthias M. , Gautam Saurabh , Herling Therese W. , Andrzejewska Ewa , Krainer Georg , Miller Alyssa M. , Trinkaus Victoria A. , Peter Quentin A. E. , Ruggeri Francesco Simone , Vendruscolo Michele , Bracher Andreas , Dobson Christopher M. , Hartl F. Ulrich , Knowles Tuomas P. J.
Published: October 2021

Molecular chaperones contribute to the maintenance of cellular protein homoeostasis through assisting de novo protein folding and preventing amyloid formation. Chaperones of the Hsp70 family can further disaggregate otherwise irreversible aggregate species such as α-synuclein fibrils, which accumulate in Parkinson’s disease. However, the mechanisms and kinetics of this key functionality are only partially understood. Here, we combine microfluidic measurements with chemical kinetics to study α-synuclein disaggregation. We show that Hsc70 together with its co-chaperones DnaJB1 and Apg2 can completely reverse α-synuclein aggregation back to its soluble monomeric state. This reaction proceeds through first-order kinetics where monomer units are removed directly from the fibril ends with little contribution from intermediate fibril fragmentation steps. These findings extend our mechanistic understanding of the role of chaperones in the suppression of amyloid proliferation and in aggregate clearance, and inform on possibilities and limitations of this strategy in the development of therapeutics against synucleinopathies.
Rapid incidence estimation from SARS-CoV-2 genomes reveals decreased case detection in Europe during summer 2020
Authors: Smith Maureen Rebecca , Trofimova Maria , Weber Ariane , Duport Yannick , Kühnert Denise , von Kleist Max
Published: October 2021

By October 2021, 230 million SARS-CoV-2 diagnoses have been reported. Yet, a considerable proportion of cases remains undetected. Here, we propose GInPipe, a method that rapidly reconstructs SARS-CoV-2 incidence profiles solely from publicly available, time-stamped viral genomes. We validate GInPipe against simulated outbreaks and elaborate phylodynamic analyses. Using available sequence data, we reconstruct incidence histories for Denmark, Scotland, Switzerland, and Victoria (Australia) and demonstrate, how to use the method to investigate the effects of changing testing policies on case ascertainment. Specifically, we find that under-reporting was highest during summer 2020 in Europe, coinciding with more liberal testing policies at times of low testing capacities. Due to the increased use of real-time sequencing, it is envisaged that GInPipe can complement established surveillance tools to monitor the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In post-pandemic times, when diagnostic efforts are decreasing, GInPipe may facilitate the detection of hidden infection dynamics.
Spatial deconvolution of HER2-positive breast cancer delineates tumor-associated cell type interactions
Authors: Andersson Alma , Larsson Ludvig , Stenbeck Linnea , Salmén Fredrik , Ehinger Anna , Wu Sunny Z. , Al-Eryani Ghamdan , Roden Daniel , Swarbrick Alex , Borg Åke , Frisén Jonas , Engblom Camilla , Lundeberg Joakim
Published: October 2021

In the past decades, transcriptomic studies have revolutionized cancer treatment and diagnosis. However, tumor sequencing strategies typically result in loss of spatial information, critical to understand cell interactions and their functional relevance. To address this, we investigate spatial gene expression in HER2-positive breast tumors using Spatial Transcriptomics technology. We show that expression-based clustering enables data-driven tumor annotation and assessment of intra- and interpatient heterogeneity; from which we discover shared gene signatures for immune and tumor processes. By integration with single cell data, we spatially map tumor-associated cell types to find tertiary lymphoid-like structures, and a type I interferon response overlapping with regions of T-cell and macrophage subset colocalization. We construct a predictive model to infer presence of tertiary lymphoid-like structures, applicable across tissue types and technical platforms. Taken together, we combine different data modalities to define a high resolution map of cellular interactions in tumors and provide tools generalizing across tissues and diseases.
A microfluidic platform for highly parallel bite by bite profiling of mosquito-borne pathogen transmission
Authors: Kumar Shailabh , Hol Felix J. H. , Pujhari Sujit , Ellington Clayton , Narayanan Haripriya Vaidehi , Li Hongquan , Rasgon Jason L. , Prakash Manu
Published: October 2021

Mosquito bites transmit a number of pathogens via salivary droplets deposited during blood-feeding, resulting in potentially fatal diseases. Little is known about the genomic content of these nanodroplets, including the transmission dynamics of live pathogens. Here we introduce Vectorchip, a low-cost, scalable microfluidic platform enabling high-throughput molecular interrogation of individual mosquito bites. We introduce an ultra-thin PDMS membrane which acts as a biting interface to arrays of micro-wells. Freely-behaving mosquitoes deposit saliva droplets by biting into these micro-wells. By modulating membrane thickness, we observe species-dependent differences in mosquito biting capacity, utilizable for selective sample collection. We demonstrate RT-PCR and focus-forming assays on-chip to detect mosquito DNA, Zika virus RNA, as well as quantify infectious Mayaro virus particles transmitted from single mosquito bites. The Vectorchip presents a promising approach for single-bite-resolution laboratory and field characterization of vector-pathogen communities, and could serve as a powerful early warning sentinel for mosquito-borne diseases.
Active droploids
Authors: Grauer Jens , Schmidt Falko , Pineda Jesús , Midtvedt Benjamin , Löwen Hartmut , Volpe Giovanni , Liebchen Benno
Published: October 2021

Active matter comprises self-driven units, such as bacteria and synthetic microswimmers, that can spontaneously form complex patterns and assemble into functional microdevices. These processes are possible thanks to the out-of-equilibrium nature of active-matter systems, fueled by a one-way free-energy flow from the environment into the system. Here, we take the next step in the evolution of active matter by realizing a two-way coupling between active particles and their environment, where active particles act back on the environment giving rise to the formation of superstructures. In experiments and simulations we observe that, under light-illumination, colloidal particles and their near-critical environment create mutually-coupled co-evolving structures. These structures unify in the form of active superstructures featuring a droplet shape and a colloidal engine inducing self-propulsion. We call them active droploids—a portmanteau of droplet and colloids. Our results provide a pathway to create active superstructures through environmental feedback.
Diet diversity and environment determine the intestinal microbiome and bacterial pathogen load of fire salamanders
Authors: Wang Yu , Smith Hannah K. , Goossens Evy , Hertzog Lionel , Bletz Molly C. , Bonte Dries , Verheyen Kris , Lens Luc , Vences Miguel , Pasmans Frank , Martel An
Published: October 2021

Diverse communities of symbiotic microbes inhabit the digestive systems of vertebrates and play a crucial role in animal health, and host diet plays a major role in shaping the composition and diversity of these communities. Here, we characterized diet and gut microbiome of fire salamander populations from three Belgian forests. We carried out DNA metabarcoding on fecal samples, targeting eukaryotic 18S rRNA of potential dietary prey items, and bacterial 16S rRNA of the concomitant gut microbiome. Our results demonstrated an abundance of soft-bodied prey in the diet of fire salamanders, and a significant difference in the diet composition between males and females. This sex-dependent effect on diet was also reflected in the gut microbiome diversity, which is higher in males than female animals. Proximity to human activities was associated with increased intestinal pathogen loads. Collectively, the data supports a relationship between diet, environment and intestinal microbiome in fire salamanders, with potential health implications.
Transcriptomics of chicken cecal tonsils and intestine after infection with low pathogenic avian influenza virus H9N2
Authors: Alqazlan Nadiyah , Emam Mehdi , Nagy Éva , Bridle Byram , Sargolzaei Mehdi , Sharif Shayan
Published: October 2021

Influenza viruses cause severe respiratory infections in humans and birds, triggering global health concerns and economic burden. Influenza infection is a dynamic process involving complex biological host responses. The objective of this study was to illustrate global biological processes in ileum and cecal tonsils at early time points after chickens were infected with low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV) H9N2 through transcriptome analysis. Total RNA isolated from ileum and cecal tonsils of non-infected and infected layers at 12-, 24- and 72-h post-infection (hpi) was used for mRNA sequencing analyses to characterize differentially expressed genes and overrepresented pathways. Statistical analysis highlighted transcriptomic signatures significantly occurring 24 and 72 hpi, but not earlier at 12 hpi. Interferon (IFN)-inducible and IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) expression was increased, followed by continued expression of various heat-shock proteins (HSP), including HSP60, HSP70, HSP90 and HSP110. Some upregulated genes involved in innate antiviral responses included DDX60, MX1, RSAD2 and CMPK2. The ISG15 antiviral mechanism pathway was highly enriched in ileum and cecal tonsils at 24 hpi. Overall, most affected pathways were related to interferon production and the heat-shock response. Research on these candidate genes and pathways is warranted to decipher underlying mechanisms of immunity against LPAIV in chickens.
The movement profile of trunk and neck during habitual vacuuming
Authors: Maurer-Grubinger C. , Haenel J. , Fraeulin L. , Holzgreve F. , Wanke E. M. , Groneberg D. A. , Ohlendorf D.
Published: October 2021

Musculoskeletal disorders of the trunk and neck are common among cleaners. Vacuum cleaning is a demanding activity. The aim of this study was to present the movement profile of the trunk and neck during habitual vacuuming. The data were collected from 31 subjects (21f./10 m) using a 3D motion analysis system (Xsens). 10 cycles were analysed in vacuuming PVC and carpet floors with 8 vacuum cleaners. The joint angles and velocities were represented statistically descriptive. When vacuuming, the trunk is held in a forwardly inclined position by a flexion in the hip and rotated from this position. In the joint angles and velocities of the spine, the rotation proved to be dominant. A relatively large amount of movement took place in the cervical spine and also in the lumbar spine. The shown movement profile is rather a comfort area of vacuuming which may serve as a reference for ergonomics in vacuuming.
Serum vitamin D status inversely associates with a prevalence of severe sarcopenia among female patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Minamino Hiroto , Katsushima Masao , Torii Mie , Yamamoto Wataru , Fujita Yoshihito , Ikeda Kaori , Okamura Emi , Murakami Kosaku , Watanabe Ryu , Murata Koichi , Ito Hiromu , Tanaka Masao , Arai Hidenori , Matsuda Shuichi , Morinobu Akio , Inagaki Nobuya , Hashimoto Motomu
Published: October 2021

Sarcopenia is an age-related disease with an increased risk of mortality. It is emerging that low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] affects the sarcopenic state in general, but in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), these associations are not understood although the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is high in RA. We conducted a cross-sectional study of older female outpatients from our cohort (KURAMA) database. We measured skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, and gait-speed to diagnose severe sarcopenia. The serum 25(OH)D concentration was measured using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. A total of 156 female patients with RA (sarcopenia:44.9%, severe sarcopenia: 29.5%, and without sarcopenia: 25.6%) were enrolled. Classification of vitamin D status at a cutoff point of median 25(OH)D concentration revealed that low 25(OH)D status was associated with a high prevalence of severe sarcopenia and with low measured values of muscle mass, handgrip, and gait speed. Furthermore, multivariable logistic regression analysis identified that low 25(OH)D status was associated with a high prevalence of severe sarcopenia (OR 6.00; 95% CI 1.99–18.08).The same association was observed when the cut-off value was set at 20 ng/ml. In components of sarcopenia, both low physical performance and muscle mass were associated with low 25(OH)D status. In conclusion, vitamin D status was inversely associated with severe sarcopenia, low physical performance, and low skeletal muscle mass. Modification of vitamin D status including vitamin D supplementation should be investigated as a therapeutic strategy for sarcopenic patients with RA.
Seasonal activity of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in the era of progressive climate change in eastern Poland
Authors: Zając Zbigniew , Kulisz Joanna , Woźniak Aneta , Bartosik Katarzyna , Khan Adil
Published: October 2021

Dermacentor reticulatus ticks are one of the most important vectors and reservoirs of tick-borne pathogens in Europe. Changes in the abundance and range of this species have been observed in the last decade and these ticks are collected in areas previously considered tick-free. This may be influenced by progressive climate change. Eastern Poland is an area where the local population of D. reticulatus is one of the most numerous among those described so far. At the same time, the region is characterized by a significant increase in the mean air temperature in recent years (by 1.81 °C in 2020) and a decrease in the average number of days with snow cover (by 64 days in 2020) and in the number of days with frost (by 20 days in 2020) on an annual basis compared to the long-term average. The aim of our research was to investigate the rhythms of seasonal activity and the population size of D. reticulatus in the era of progressive climate change. To this end, questing ticks were collected in 2017–2020. Next, the weather conditions in the years of observation were analyzed and compared with multi-year data covering 30 years preceding the study. The research results show that, in eastern Poland, there is a stable population of D. reticulatus with the peak of activity in spring or autumn (up to a maximum of 359 individuals within 30 min of collection) depending on the year of observation. Ticks of this species may also be active in winter months. The activity of D. reticulatus is influenced by a saturation deficit.
Comparative analysis of high-speed videolaryngoscopy images and sound data simultaneously acquired from rigid and flexible laryngoscope: a pilot study
Authors: Pietruszewska Wioletta , Just Marcin , Morawska Joanna , Malinowski Jakub , Hoffman Joanna , Racino Anna , Barańska Magda , Kowalczyk Magdalena , Niebudek-Bogusz Ewa
Published: October 2021

High-Speed Videoendoscopy (HSV) is becoming a robust tool for the assessment of vocal fold vibration in laboratory investigation and clinical practice. We describe the first successful application of flexible High Speed Videoendoscopy with innovative laser light source conducted in clinical settings. The acquired image and simultaneously recorded audio data are compared to the results obtained by means of a rigid endoscope. We demonstrated that the HSV recordings with fiber-optic laryngoscope have enabled obtaining consistently bright, color images suitable for parametrization of vocal fold oscillation similarly as in the case of the HSV data obtained from a rigid laryngoscope. The comparison of period and amplitude perturbation parameters calculated on the basis of image and audio data acquired from flexible and rigid HSV recording objectively confirm that flexible High-Speed Videoendoscopy is a more suitable method for examination of natural phonation. The HSV-based measures generated from this kymographic analysis are arguably a superior representation of the vocal fold vibrations than the acoustic analysis because their quantification is independent of the vocal tract influences. This experimental study has several implications for further research in the field of HSV application in clinical assessment of glottal pathologies nature and its effect on vocal folds vibrations.