bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FAK mediates LPS-induced inflammatory lung injury through interacting TAK1 and activating TAK1-NFκB pathway
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhao Ying , Wang Xu , Lin Yimin , Zhao Weixin , Wu Di , Pan Jingye , Luo Wu , Wang Yi , Liang Guang
Published: July 2022

Acute lung injury (ALI), characterized by inflammatory damage, is a major clinical challenge. Developing specific treatment options for ALI requires the identification of novel targetable signaling pathways. Recent studies reported that endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced a TLR4-dependent activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in colorectal adenocarcinoma cells, suggesting that FAK may be involved in LPS-induced inflammatory responses. Here, we investigated the involvement and mechanism of FAK in mediating LPS-induced inflammation and ALI. We show that LPS phosphorylates FAK in macrophages. Either FAK inhibitor, site-directly mutation, or siRNA knockdown of FAK significantly suppresses LPS-induced inflammatory cytokine production in macrophages. FAK inhibition also blocked LPS-induced activation of MAPKs and NFκB. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that activated FAK directly interacts with transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase-1 (TAK1), an upstream kinase of MAPKs and NFκB, and then phosphorylates TAK1 at Ser412. In a mouse model of LPS-induced ALI, pharmacological inhibition of FAK suppressed FAK/TAK activation and inflammatory response in lung tissues. These activities resulted in the preservation of lung tissues in LPS-challenged mice and increased survival during LPS-induced septic shock. Collectively, our results illustrate a novel FAK-TAK1-NFκB signaling axis in LPS-induced inflammation and ALI, and support FAK as a potential target for the treatment of ALI.
The contribution of common regulatory and protein-coding TYR variants to the genetic architecture of albinism
Authors: Michaud Vincent , Lasseaux Eulalie , Green David J. , Gerrard Dave T. , Plaisant Claudio ,   UK Biobank Eye and Vision Consortium, Fitzgerald Tomas , Birney Ewan , Arveiler Benoît , Black Graeme C. , Sergouniotis Panagiotis I.
Published: July 2022

Genetic diseases have been historically segregated into rare Mendelian disorders and common complex conditions. Large-scale studies using genome sequencing are eroding this distinction and are gradually unmasking the underlying complexity of human traits. Here, we analysed data from the Genomics England 100,000 Genomes Project and from a cohort of 1313 individuals with albinism aiming to gain insights into the genetic architecture of this archetypal rare disorder. We investigated the contribution of protein-coding and regulatory variants both rare and common. We focused on TYR, the gene encoding tyrosinase, and found that a high-frequency promoter variant, TYR c.−301C>T [rs4547091], modulates the penetrance of a prevalent, albinism-associated missense change, TYR c.1205G>A (p.Arg402Gln) [rs1126809]. We also found that homozygosity for a haplotype formed by three common, functionally-relevant variants, TYR c.[−301C;575C>A;1205G>A], is associated with a high probability of receiving an albinism diagnosis (OR>82). This genotype is also associated with reduced visual acuity and with increased central retinal thickness in UK Biobank participants. Finally, we report how the combined analysis of rare and common variants can increase diagnostic yield and can help inform genetic counselling in families with albinism.
Late quaternary biotic homogenization of North American mammalian faunas
Authors: Fraser Danielle , Villaseñor Amelia , Tóth Anikó B. , Balk Meghan A. , Eronen Jussi T. , Andrew Barr W. , Behrensmeyer A. K. , Davis Matt , Du Andrew , Tyler Faith J. , Graves Gary R. , Gotelli Nicholas J. , Jukar Advait M. , Looy Cindy V. , McGill Brian J. , Miller Joshua H. , Pineda-Munoz Silvia , Potts Richard , Shupinski Alex B. , Soul Laura C. , Kathleen Lyons S.
Published: July 2022

Biotic homogenization—increasing similarity of species composition among ecological communities—has been linked to anthropogenic processes operating over the last century. Fossil evidence, however, suggests that humans have had impacts on ecosystems for millennia. We quantify biotic homogenization of North American mammalian assemblages during the late Pleistocene through Holocene (~30,000 ybp to recent), a timespan encompassing increased evidence of humans on the landscape (~20,000–14,000 ybp). From ~10,000 ybp to recent, assemblages became significantly more homogenous (>100% increase in Jaccard similarity), a pattern that cannot be explained by changes in fossil record sampling. Homogenization was most pronounced among mammals larger than 1 kg and occurred in two phases. The first followed the megafaunal extinction at ~10,000 ybp. The second, more rapid phase began during human population growth and early agricultural intensification (~2,000–1,000 ybp). We show that North American ecosystems were homogenizing for millennia, extending human impacts back ~10,000 years.
Halide perovskites as disposable epitaxial templates for the phase-selective synthesis of lead sulfochloride nanocrystals
Authors: Toso Stefano , Imran Muhammad , Mugnaioli Enrico , Moliterni Anna , Caliandro Rocco , Schrenker Nadine J. , Pianetti Andrea , Zito Juliette , Zaccaria Francesco , Wu Ye , Gemmi Mauro , Giannini Cinzia , Brovelli Sergio , Infante Ivan , Bals Sara , Manna Liberato
Published: July 2022

Colloidal chemistry grants access to a wealth of materials through simple and mild reactions. However, even few elements can combine in a variety of stoichiometries and structures, potentially resulting in impurities or even wrong products. Similar issues have been long addressed in organic chemistry by using reaction-directing groups, that are added to a substrate to promote a specific product and are later removed. Inspired by such approach, we demonstrate the use of CsPbCl3 perovskite nanocrystals to drive the phase-selective synthesis of two yet unexplored lead sulfochlorides: Pb3S2Cl2 and Pb4S3Cl2. When homogeneously nucleated in solution, lead sulfochlorides form Pb3S2Cl2 nanocrystals. Conversely, the presence of CsPbCl3 triggers the formation of Pb4S3Cl2/CsPbCl3 epitaxial heterostructures. The phase selectivity is guaranteed by the continuity of the cationic subnetwork across the interface, a condition not met in a hypothetical Pb3S2Cl2/CsPbCl3 heterostructure. The perovskite domain is then etched, delivering phase-pure Pb4S3Cl2 nanocrystals that could not be synthesized directly.
Waist circumference and risk of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Park Kye-Yeung , Nam Ga Eun , Han Kyungdo , Park Hoon-Ki , Hwang Hwan-Sik
Published: July 2022

Although many studies support the association of obesity with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), there are limited data regarding the association between abdominal obesity and PD, with mixed findings. The aim of this study was to examine the association of waist circumference (WC) with the risk of PD incidence. We retrospectively analyzed a large-scale nationwide cohort of 6,925,646 individuals aged ≥40 years who underwent the Korean National Health Screening during 2009. We performed multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to evaluate the association of WC and abdominal obesity with PD risk and calculated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of PD incidence. During a median follow-up period of 8.35 years, 33,300 cases of PD developed. PD incidence was positively associated with increases in WC (P for trend < 0.001). The risk of PD incidence tended to elevate as WC increased (P for trend < 0.001), indicating that the adjusted HRs of PD incidence in the highest WC group versus the reference group was 1.16 (95% CI, 1.10–1.23), whereas it was 0.91 (95% CI 0.84–0.98) in the lowest WC group. Individuals with abdominal obesity were significantly associated with an increased PD risk (HR 1.10, 95% CI: 1.07–1.13). These associations persisted even after adjustment for body mass index and stratification by sex. Even among non-obese individuals, abdominal obesity was associated with a higher PD risk (adjusted HR 1.13, 95% CI: 1.09–1.18). Taken together, higher WC and abdominal obesity were associated with increased PD risk. Even in non-obese individuals, abdominal obesity was associated with an increased PD risk.
Comparison of physiological responses of running on a nonmotorized and conventional motor-propelled treadmill at similar intensities
Authors: Sousa Filipe A. B. , Manchado-Gobatto Fúlvia B. , de A. Rodrigues Natália , de Araujo Gustavo G. , Gobatto Claudio A.
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to test the agreement of the incremental test's physiological responses between tethered running on a nonmotorized treadmill (NMT) to matched relative intensities while running on a conventional motorized treadmill (MT). Using a within-subject crossover design, nine male recreational runners (age = 22 ± 5 years; height = 175 ± 6 cm; weight = 68.0 ± 16.6 kg) underwent two test sessions: one was an incremental intensity protocol on an MT; the other was on an instrumented NMT. Intensity thresholds at $${\dot{\text V}}$$

V
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O2max, respiratory compensation point (iRCP), and lactate threshold (iLT) were registered for analysis, together with $${\dot{\text V}}$$

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̇O2, $${\dot{\text V}}$$

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̇E, ƒR, and blood lactate concentration ([Lac]). Comparisons were based on hypothesis testing (Student's T-test), effect sizes (Cohen's d), ICC, and Bland Altman analysis. Statistical significance was accepted at p < 0.05. Attained $${\dot{\text V}}$$

V
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O2max (MT = 52.2 ± 7.3 mL·kg-1·min-1 vs NMT = 50.1 ± 8.1 mL·kg-1·min-1) and $${\dot{\text V}}$$

V
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̇O2 at iRCP (MT = 46.3 ± 7.2 mL·kg-1·min-1 vs NMT = 42.8 ± 9.3 mL·kg-1·min-1) were not different between ergometers (p = 0.15 and 0.13, respectively), with significant ICCs (0.84 and 0.70, respectively) and Pearson’s correlations (r = 0.87 and 0.76, respectively). The [Lac] at iLT presented poor agreement between conditions. Significant correlations were found (r between 0.72 and 0.83) for relative power values of i$${\dot{\text V}}$$

V
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O2max (6.56 ± 1.28 W·kg−1), iRCP (4.38 ± 1.50 W·kg−1), and iLT (4.15 ± 1.29 W·kg−1) related to their counterpart obtained on MT. Results show that running on an NMT offers a higher glycolytic demand under the same relative internal load as running on an MT but with a similar aerobic response and correlated intensity determination.
Modelling rate of penetration in drilling operations using RBF, MLP, LSSVM, and DT models
Authors: Riazi Mohsen , Mehrjoo Hossein , Nakhaei Reza , Jalalifar Hossein , Shateri Mohammadhadi , Riazi Masoud , Ostadhassan Mehdi , Hemmati-Sarapardeh Abdolhossein
Published: July 2022

One of the most important problems that the drilling industry faces is drilling cost. Many factors affect the cost of drilling. Increasing drilling time has a significant role in increasing drilling costs. One of the solutions to reduce drilling time is to optimize the drilling rate. Drilling wells at the optimum time will reduce the time and thus reduce the cost of drilling. The drilling rate depends on different factors, some of which are controllable and some are uncontrollable. In this study, several smart models and a correlation were proposed to predict the rate of penetration (ROP) which is very important for planning a drilling operation. 5040 real data points from a field in the South of Iran have been used. The ROP was modelled using Radial Basis Function, Decision Tree (DT), Least Square Vector Machine (LSSVM), and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP). Bayesian Regularization Algorithm (BRA), Scaled Conjugate Gradient Algorithm and Levenberg–Marquardt Algorithm were employed to train MLP and Gradient Boosting (GB) was used for DT. To evaluate the accuracy of the developed models, both graphical and statistical techniques were used. The results showed that DT-GB model with an R2of 0.977, has the best performance, followed by LSSVM and MLP-BRA with R2of 0.971 and 0.969, respectively. Aside from that, the proposed empirical correlation has an acceptable accuracy in spite of simplicity. Moreover, sensitivity analysis illustrated that depth and pump pressure have the highest effects on ROP. In addition, the leverage approach approved that the developed DT-GB model is valid statistically and about 1% of the data are suspected or out of the applicability domain of the model.
Cumulative effects of widespread landscape change alter predator–prey dynamics
Authors: Boucher Nicole P. , Anderson Morgan , Ladle Andrew , Procter Chris , Marshall Shelley , Kuzyk Gerald , Starzomski Brian M. , Fisher Jason T.
Published: July 2022

Predator search efficiency can be enhanced by anthropogenic landscape change, leading to increased predator–prey encounters and subsequent prey population declines. Logging increases early successional vegetation, providing ungulate forage. This increased forage, however, is accompanied by linear feature networks that increase predator hunting efficiency by facilitating predator movement and increasing prey vulnerability. We used integrated step selection analyses to weigh support for multiple hypotheses representing the combined impact of logging features (cutblocks and linear features) on wolf (Canis lupus) movement and habitat selection in interior British Columbia. Further, we examine the relationship between logging and wolf kill-sites of moose (Alces alces) identified using spatiotemporal wolf location cluster analysis. Wolves selected for linear features, which increased their movement rates. New (0–8 years since harvest) cutblocks were selected by wolves. Moose kill-sites had a higher probability of occurring in areas with higher proportions of new and regenerating (9–24 years since harvest) cutblocks. The combined selection and movement responses by wolves to logging features, coupled with increased moose mortality sites associated with cutblocks, indicate that landscape change increases risk for moose. Cumulative effects of landscape change contribute to moose population declines, stressing the importance of cohesive management and restoration of anthropogenic features.
Effects of technology-supported brain breaks videos on exercise self-efficacy among type 2 diabetes mellitus Malaysians
Authors: Hidrus Aizuddin , Kueh Yee Cheng , Norsa’adah Bachok , Chang Yu-Kai , Kuan Garry
Published: July 2022

The technology supported Brain Breaks (BB) videos are a series of structured, web-based physical activity (PA) videos designed to promote learning and health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of BB videos on exercise self-efficacy (ESE) among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients using the Malay-versioned exercise self-efficacy scale (ESE-M). The study used a double-blind research design and was randomised into two groups: (1) The Technology Supported BB intervention group, and (2) the control group. 70 T2DM patients with a mean age of 57.6 years (SD = 8.5) were recruited from Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. For 4 months, participants in the intervention group were required to undertake PA every day using the BB videos (approximately 10 min). Both groups completed the ESE-M at pre-intervention, the end of the first month, the second month, the third month, and post-intervention. For the data analysis, a mixed factorial analysis of variance was used. The results showed that at the end of the intervention, the two groups’ ESE was significantly different (p < 0.001). From pre- to post-intervention, the intervention group’s ESE-M mean scores improved significantly. Technology-supported BB videos may be an effective strategy for improving ESE in T2DM patients.
Chronology of embryonic and gonadal development in the Reeves’ turtle, Mauremys reevesii
Authors: Akashi Hiroshi , Kubota Manami , Yamamoto Hibiki , Miyaoku Kaori , Yamagishi Genki , Miyagawa Shinichi
Published: July 2022

Temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) is a mechanism in which environmental temperature, rather than innate zygotic genotype, determines the fate of sexual differentiation during embryonic development. Reeves’ turtle (also known as the Chinese three-keeled pond turtle, Mauremys reevesii) exhibits TSD and is the only species whose genome has been determined in Geoemydidae to date. Thus, M. reevesii occupy phylogenetically important position for the study of TSD and can be compared to other TSD species to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism of this process. Nevertheless, neither embryogenesis nor gonadogenesis has been described in this species. Therefore, herein, we investigated the chronology of normal embryonic development and gonadal structures in M. reevesii under both female- and male-producing incubation temperatures (FPT 31 °C or MPT 26 °C, respectively). External morphology remains indistinct between the two temperature regimes throughout the studied embryonic stages. However, the gonadal ridges present on the mesonephros at stage 16 develop and sexually differentiate at FPT and MPT. Ovarian and testicular structures begin to develop at stages 18–19 at FPT and stages 20–21 at MPT, respectively, and thus, the sexual differentiation of gonadal structures began earlier in the embryos at FPT than at MPT. Our results suggest that temperature sensitive period, at which the gonadal structures remain sexually undifferentiated, spans from stage 16 (or earlier) to stages 18–19 at FPT and to stages 20–21 at MPT. Understanding the temperature-dependent differentiation in gonadal structures during embryonic development is a prerequisite for investigating molecular basis underlying TSD. Thus, the result of the present study will facilitate further developmental studies on TSD in M. reevesii.
The spatial spillover effect of environmental regulation on the total factor productivity of pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in China
Authors: Wu Qijie , Li Yuexin , Wu Yufei , Li Fei , Zhong Shen
Published: July 2022

As an important embodiment of a country's economic strength and national health, pharmaceutical manufacturing industry has made rapid development in China in recent years. But at the same time, the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry is facing many environmental problems, such as large pollution emissions, complex pollution components, controlling difficulties and so on. This paper measures the total factor productivity of pharmaceutical manufacturing industry (HTFP) by using data envelopment analysis with unexpected output, which is more accurate and effective than the traditional model. It also studies the effect of environmental regulation on the total factor productivity of pharmaceutical manufacturing industry (HTFP) by establishing panel data regression model and spatial econometric model based on 30 provinces in China from 2004 to 2019, which enriches the research results in the field of cleaning in pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. The conclusions are as follows: (1) Environmental regulation and total factor productivity of pharmaceutical manufacturing industry have significant spatial autocorrelation, showing "high-high" or "low-low" spatial aggregation characteristics; (2) Environmental regulation has a significant promoting effect on improving pharmaceutical manufacturing total factor productivity in local and surrounding areas, and there are differences in the impact of eastern, central and western regions; (3) Green technology, production technology and industrial structure play an important role in the impact of environmental regulation on pharmaceutical manufacturing total factor productivity, which provides theoretical guidance and policy recommendations for improving the level of total factor productivity of pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in the environmental aspect.
Diurnal and semidiurnal internal waves on the southern slope of the Yermak Plateau
Authors: Wang Shuya , Cao Anzhou , Li Qun , Chen Xu
Published: July 2022

The Yermak Plateau (YP) is located across the Arctic–Atlantic gateway in the northwest of the Svalbard archipelago. In this region, internal waves are believed to cause intense turbulent mixing and hence influence the heat budget in the Arctic Ocean. Based on year-long observations from three moorings, the characteristics and energetics of diurnal and semidiurnal internal waves on the southern slope of the YP are investigated in this study. Diurnal internal waves induce large isothermal displacements exceeding 100 m, which are nearly one order of magnitude greater than those of semidiurnal internal waves. In addition, diurnal internal waves are strong in winter but weak in summer, while the semidiurnal internal waves exhibit complicated temporal variation. For the diurnal internal waves, their available potential energy is greater than the horizontal kinetic energy; whereas the situation is opposite for the semidiurnal ones. This feature is further clarified with two-dimensional numerical simulations. Due to the larger tidal excursion, diurnal tidal forcing yields the generation of stronger higher harmonics, i.e., the semidiurnal internal waves. In contrast, higher harmonics are rather weak under the semidiurnal forcing. Moreover, a large proportion of energy for both diurnal and semidiurnal internal waves is dissipated locally. Results of this study can provide useful insight on the dynamics of internal waves in the Arctic Ocean.
Insights into amino acid fractionation and incorporation by compound-specific carbon isotope analysis of three-spined sticklebacks
Authors: Hesse Tobias , Nachev Milen , Khaliq Shaista , Jochmann Maik A. , Franke Frederik , Scharsack Jörn P. , Kurtz Joachim , Sures Bernd , Schmidt Torsten C.
Published: July 2022

Interpretation of stable isotope data is of upmost importance in ecology to build sound models for the study of animal diets, migration patterns and physiology. However, our understanding of stable isotope fractionation and incorporation into consumer tissues is still limited. We therefore measured the δ13C values of individual amino acids over time from muscle and liver tissue of three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) on a high protein diet. The δ13C values of amino acids in the liver quickly responded to small shifts of under ± 2.0‰ in dietary stable isotope compositions on 30-day intervals. We found on average no trophic fractionation in pooled essential (muscle, liver) and non-essential (muscle) amino acids. Negative Δδ13C values of − 0.7 ± 1.3‰ were observed for pooled non-essential (liver) amino acids and might indicate biosynthesis from small amounts of dietary lipids. Trophic fractionation of individual amino acids is reported and discussed, including unusual Δδ13C values of over + 4.9 ± 1.4‰ for histidine. Arginine and lysine showed the lowest trophic fractionation on individual sampling days and might be useful proxies for dietary sources on short time scales. We suggest further investigations using isotopically enriched materials to facilitate the correct interpretation of ecological field data.
Epidemiological analysis of second primary malignant neoplasms in cancer survivors aged 85 years and older: a SEER data analysis (1975–2016)
Authors: Zhao Xianlan , Zhang Li , Bai Lanjun , Zhao Yangyang , Yang Qiao
Published: July 2022

Cancer burden in patients aged 85 years and older has rapidly increased accompanying the decrease in mortality, which is raising the concern of developing second primary malignant neoplasms (SPM). This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of the SPM in this population in the US by using the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database (1975–2016). The cumulative incidence of developing a SPM was calculated by the Fine and Gray model. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) were calculated via Poisson regression. The relative post-SPM survival rate was calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Male patients with skin melanoma, kidney and renal pelvis and urinary bladder cancers had high cumulative incidences (15.32%, 13.55%, and 12.26%, respectively) and increased SIRs (1.47, 1.44, and 1.16, respectively) for developing SPMs. Female patients with skin melanoma and urinary bladder cancers had high cumulative incidences (10.18% and 7.87%, respectively) and increased SIRs (1.34 and 1.18, respectively). In general, the incidence of SPM cases increased over time. The median latency ranged from 17 to 37 months. A less than 50% of patients had 1-year post-SPM survival. In conclusion, some of these patients had an increased risk of the SPM, with poor survival.
News headline generation based on improved decoder from transformer
Authors: Li Zhengpeng , Wu Jiansheng , Miao Jiawei , Yu Xinmiao
Published: July 2022

Most of the news headline generation models that use the sequence-to-sequence model or recurrent network have two shortcomings: the lack of parallel ability of the model and easily repeated generation of words. It is difficult to select the important words in news and reproduce these expressions, resulting in the headline that inaccurately summarizes the news. In this work, we propose a TD-NHG model, which stands for news headline generation based on an improved decoder from the transformer. The TD-NHG uses masked multi-head self-attention to learn the feature information of different representation subspaces of news texts and uses decoding selection strategy of top-k, top-p, and punishment mechanisms (repetition-penalty) in the decoding stage. We conducted a comparative experiment on the LCSTS dataset and CSTS dataset. Rouge-1, Rouge-2, and Rouge-L on the LCSTS dataset and CSTS dataset are 31.28/38.73, 12.68/24.97, and 28.31/37.47, respectively. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can improve the accuracy and diversity of news headlines.
Photosynthetic response and antioxidative activity of ‘Hass’ avocado cultivar treated with short-term low temperature
Authors: Chung Sun Woo , Rho Hyungmin , Lim Chan Kyu , Jeon Mi Kyoung , Kim Seolah , Jang Yeon Jin , An Hyun Joo
Published: July 2022

To investigate the effects of short-term low temperatures, three-year-old avocado (Persea americana cv. Hass) seedlings were treated with 1, − 2, or − 5 °C for 1 h and subsequently recovered in ambient condition for 24 h. Leaf color changes were investigated with chlorophyll, carotenoid, and phenolic contents. Photosynthetic responses were examined using gas exchange analysis. With H2O2 contents as oxidative stresses, enzymatic (ascorbate peroxidase, APX; glutathione reductase, GR; catalase, CAT; peroxidase, POD) and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities were determined using spectrophotometry. Leaves in the avocado seedlings started to be discolored with changes in the contents of chlorophyll a, carotenoids, and phenolics when treated with − 5 °C. However, the H2O2 content was not different in leaves treated with low temperatures. Photosynthetic activities decreased in leaves in the seedlings treated with − 5 °C. Of antioxidant enzymes, APX and GR have high activities in leaves in the seedlings treated with 1 and − 2 °C. In leaves in the seedlings treated with − 5 °C, the activities of all enzymes decreased. Non-enzymatic antioxidant activity was not different among leaves treated with low temperatures. These results indicated that APX and GR would play a critical role in withstanding chilling stress in ‘Hass’ avocado seedlings. However, under lethal temperature, even for a short time, the plants suffered irreversible damage with the breakdown of photosystem and antioxidant system.
Extremely low effective impedance in stratified graphene-dielectric metamaterials
Authors: Hwang Ruey-Bing
Published: July 2022

The periodic reflections in frequency were observed in a stack of graphene layers and generally reported as a series of mini photonic bandgaps owing to the multiple interference by the graphene layers. In this research, the Floquet-Bloch theory was employed to obtain the effective refractive index and Bloch impedance for understanding the wave propagation characteristic therein. Interestingly, the periodic reflections were found to occur in the frequency band having drastic variation in complex Bloch impedance and effective refractive index as well, wherein a Floquet-Bloch mode having pure real effective refractive index and extremely low Bloch impedance exists.
Bioinformatics analysis of the role of aldolase A in tumor prognosis and immunity
Authors: Tian Wanjia , Zhou Junying , Chen Mengyu , Qiu Luojie , Li Yike , Zhang Weiwei , Guo Ruixia , Lei Ningjing , Chang Lei
Published: July 2022

Aldolase A (ALDOA) is an enzyme that plays an important role in glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, which is closely related to tumor metabolism. In this study, the overall roles of ALDOA in pan-cancer have been investigated from several aspects using databases and online analysis tools. Using the ONCOMINE database, the expression of ALDOA in various cancers was analyzed. The prognostic role of ALDOA was explored by PrognoScan, GEPIA, and Kaplan–Meier Plotter. The immune-related role of ALDOA and its downstream substrates was decided by TIMER, cBioPortal and String. Our data indicate that ALDOA expression level in lung adenocarcinoma, liver hepatocellular carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is higher than that in normal tissues. Increased expression of ALDOA often indicates a poor prognosis for patients. The correlation between ALDOA and immune infiltration among different tumors is very different. We also investigate the relationship between ALDOA and its upstream/downstream proteins. Our results showed that ALDOA could be used as a biomarker for the tumor prognosis, and could be correlated with the infiltrating levels of macrophages, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells.
Toxicometabolomic profiling of resistant and susceptible western corn rootworm larvae feeding on Bt maize seedlings
Authors: Huynh Man P. , Hibbard Bruce E. , Ho Khanh-Van , Shelby Kent S.
Published: July 2022

The western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, is the most serious pest of maize (Zea mays L.) in the U.S. Corn Belt and parts of Europe. Transgenic maize hybrids expressing at least one of the four currently available insecticidal toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Berliner, currently the most widely adopted control method in continuous maize, have faltered due to the emergence of resistance. The resistance mechanisms of WCR to Bt toxins are not fully understood. We identified metabolic profiles of susceptible and resistant WCR larvae fed on maize hybrids expressing each of three available Cry3 proteins (eCry3Ab1, mCry3A, and Cry3Bb1) targeting corn rootworms and a control non-Bt maize via an untargeted metabolomics approach. Over 580 unique metabolites found in WCR larvae were classified into different pathways (amino acids, carbohydrates, cofactors and vitamins, energy, lipid, nucleotide, peptide, and xenobiotics). By exploring shifts in WCR larval metabolome exclusively by Bt toxins, several candidate metabolites and metabolic pathways were identified in susceptible and resistant larvae that may be involved in defense against or recovery from Bt ingestion by these larvae. These findings would provide mechanistic insights into altered metabolic pathways associated with the resistance mechanisms of WCR to Bt toxins.
First identification of bovine hepacivirus in wild boars
Authors: de Martinis Claudio , Cardillo Lorena , Esposito Claudia , Viscardi Maurizio , Barca Lorella , Cavallo Stefania , D’Alessio Nicola , Martella Vito , Fusco Giovanna
Published: July 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in humans. Humans were long considered the only hosts of Hepacivirus. Recently HCV-like sequences have been found in several animal species. Hepaciviruses are considered species-specific but a wider host range and a zoonotic role has been hypothesized. We report the first detection of bovine hepacivirus (BovHepV) sequences in wild boars. A total of 310 wild boars hunted in Campania region were investigated with a pan-hepacivirus nested-PCR protocol for the NS3 gene. Hepacivirus RNA was detected in 5.8% of the animals. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis showed high homology with BovHepV subtype F, with nucleotide identity of 99%. The positive wild boars were georeferenced, revealing high density of livestock farms, with no clear distinction between animal husbandry and hunting areas. These findings might suggest the ability of BovHepV to cross the host-species barrier and infect wild boars.
Supplementation of xylo-oligosaccharides to suckling piglets promotes the growth of fiber-degrading gut bacterial populations during the lactation and nursery periods
Authors: González-Solé Francesc , Solà-Oriol David , Ramayo-Caldas Yuliaxis , Rodriguez-Prado Maria , González Ortiz Gemma , Bedford Michael R. , Pérez José Francisco
Published: July 2022

Modulating early-life microbial colonization through xylo-oligosacharides (XOS) supplementation represents an opportunity to accelerate the establishment of fiber-degrading microbial populations and improve intestinal health. Ninety piglets from 15 litters were orally administered once a day from d7 to d27 of lactation with either 5 mL of water (CON) or 5 mL of a solution containing 30 to 60 mg of XOS (XOS). Supplementation ceased at weaning (d28) when all piglets were fed the same commercial pre-starter diet. Growth performance did not differ between treatments during the experimental period (d7 to d40). Piglet’s fecal microbiota (n = 30) shifted significantly from the end of lactation (d27) to nursery period (d40) exhibiting an increase in microbial alpha diversity. Animals supplemented with XOS showed higher richness and abundance of fiber-degrading bacteria and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production at d27 and d40. Additionally, the predicted abundance of the pyruvate to butanoate fermentation pathway was increased in the XOS group at d40. These results show that supplementation of XOS to lactating piglets promotes fiber-degrading bacterial populations in their hindgut. Moreover, differences observed in the nursery period suggest that XOS can influence the microbiota in the long-term.
Neuroimaging features of antiphospholipid antibody-related stroke compared with atrial fibrillation-related stroke
Authors: Yang Wookjin , Kang Dong-Wan , Kim Jeong-Min , Jung Keun-Hwa , Lee Seung-Hoon
Published: July 2022

Recognizing the lesion pattern of antiphospholipid antibody-related stroke (aPL-stroke) may contribute to establishing the cause in patients with cryptogenic stroke. We aimed to describe the neuroimaging features of aPL-stroke compared with atrial fibrillation-related stroke (AF-stroke), a major hidden cause of cryptogenic stroke. Using a prospective stroke registry, we identified consecutive aPL- and AF-stroke patients without other potential causes of stroke. Neuroimaging features based on diffusion-weighted imaging and angiographic findings at admission were compared. A total of 56 and 333 patients were included in the aPL- and AF-stroke groups, respectively. aPL-stroke patients more often presented with single small lesions (aPL-stroke, 30.4% vs. AF-stroke, 7.5%, p < 0.001), while the predominant pattern in AF-stroke patients was large territorial lesions (26.8% vs. 56.5%, p < 0.001). aPL-stroke patients had smaller infarct volume (1.58 mL [0.45; 9.41] vs. 11.32 mL [2.82; 33.08], p < 0.001) and less experience of relevant artery occlusion (17.9% vs. 54.7%, p < 0.001). The proportion of multi-territory lesions, an embolic pattern, was similar between the two groups (28.6% vs. 22.8%, p = 0.44). In comparison only including patients with multi-territory lesions as well, aPL-stroke patients showed small lesion dominance and smaller infarct volume. Multivariate analyses showed independent associations between mild neuroimaging features (small lesion prevalence, smaller infarct volume, and absence of relevant artery occlusion) and aPL-stroke. Patterns of small lesion prevalence, small infarct volume, and absence of relevant artery occlusion were suggestive of aPL-stroke rather than AF-stroke. Cryptogenic stroke patients with such neuroimaging features may benefit from aPL testing for a precise diagnosis.
Peptidomimetic inhibitors of TMPRSS2 block SARS-CoV-2 infection in cell culture
Authors: Wettstein Lukas , Knaff Philip Maximilian , Kersten Christian , Müller Patrick , Weil Tatjana , Conzelmann Carina , Müller Janis A , Brückner Maximilian , Hoffmann Markus , Pöhlmann Stefan , Schirmeister Tanja , Landfester Katharina , Münch Jan , Mailänder Volker
Published: July 2022

The transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) primes the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein for host cell entry and represents a promising target for COVID-19 therapy. Here we describe the in silico development and in vitro characterization of peptidomimetic TMPRSS2 inhibitors. Molecular docking studies identified peptidomimetic binders of the TMPRSS2 catalytic site, which were synthesized and coupled to an electrophilic serine trap. The compounds inhibit TMPRSS2 while demonstrating good off-target selectivity against selected coagulation proteases. Lead candidates are stable in blood serum and plasma for at least ten days. Finally, we show that selected peptidomimetics inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Spike-driven pseudovirus entry and authentic SARS-CoV-2 infection with comparable efficacy as camostat mesylate. The peptidomimetic TMPRSS2 inhibitors also prevent entry of recent SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern Delta and Omicron BA.1. In sum, our study reports antivirally active and stable TMPRSS2 inhibitors with prospects for further preclinical and clinical development as antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2 and other TMPRSS2-dependent viruses.
Interplay of matrix stiffness and stress relaxation in directing osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Prouvé Emilie , Rémy Murielle , Feuillie Cécile , Molinari Michael , Chevallier Pascale , Drouin Bernard , Laroche Gaétan , Durrieu Marie-Christine
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the stiffness and stress relaxation of poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) hydrogels on the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs).
Advances in hybrid peptide-based self-assembly systems and their applications
Authors: Boruah Alpana , Roy Arup
Published: July 2022

Self-assembly of peptides demonstrates a great potential for designing highly ordered, finely tailored supramolecular arrangements enriched with high specificity, improved efficacy and biological activity.
Correction: Iron-promoted free radical cascade difunctionalization of unsaturated benzamides with silanes
Authors: Ge Yaxin , Tian Yunfei , Wu Jilai , Yan Qinqin , Zheng Luping , Ren Yingming , Zhao Jincan , Li Zejiang
Published: July 2022

Correction for ‘Iron-promoted free radical cascade difunctionalization of unsaturated benzamides with silanes’ by Yaxin Ge et al., Chem. Commun., 2020, 56, 12656–12659, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0CC05213B.
CoZn/N-Doped porous carbon derived from bimetallic zeolite imidazolate framework/g-C3N4 for efficient hydrodeoxygenation of vanillin
Authors: Qiu Zegang , He Xiaoxia , Li Zhiqin , Guan Qichen , Ding Liang , Zhu Yanan , Cao Yueling
Published: July 2022

Non-noble Co–Zn/NPC fabricated by pyrolysis of Co–Zn-ZIF/g-C3N4 presents high efficiency in hydrodeoxygenation of the aldehyde group of vanillin under mild conditions.
Fundamentals and application potential of the synergy effect between ZnO and Mo/SiO2 for propene production in the metathesis of ethylene and trans-2-butene
Authors: Zhang Qiyang , Otroshchenko Tatiana , Kondratenko Evgenii V.
Published: July 2022

The enhancing effect of ZnO on the activity of Mo/SiO2 in the metathesis of ethylene with 2-butene is investigated. The strength of the effect depends on the reaction temperature and the manner in which ZnO and Mo/SiO2 are located in the reactor.
The role of the gold–platinum interface in AuPt/TiO2-catalyzed plasmon-induced reduction of CO2 with water
Authors: Hammoud Leila , Strebler Claire , Toufaily Joumana , Hamieh Tayssir , Keller Valérie , Caps Valérie
Published: July 2022

Photocatalytic evaluation of Janus and core–shell alloy nanostructures prepared by chemical reduction shows that the gold–platinum synergy for plasmon-induced methane artificial photosynthesis from CO2 and water is driven by the Au–Pt interface.
Synthesis of micro- and nanosheets of CrCl3–RuCl3 solid solution by chemical vapour transport
Authors: Froeschke Samuel , Wolf Daniel , Hantusch Martin , Giebeler Lars , Wels Martin , Gräßler Nico , Büchner Bernd , Schmidt Peer , Hampel Silke
Published: July 2022

Nanocrystals of the CrCl3–RuCl3 solid solution are deposited onto a substrate and directly delaminated to obtain few- and monolayer structures.
Element doping: a marvelous strategy for pioneering the smart applications of VO2
Authors: Xue Yibei , Yin Shu
Published: July 2022

The recent progress and potential challenges of element-doped VO2 are systematically reviewed. The roles of element doping in modulating the properties of VO2 are discussed in particular, aiming to inspire the current research.
Temperature-dependent swelling transitions in MXene Ti3C2Tx
Authors: Iakunkov Artem , Nordenström Andreas , Boulanger Nicolas , Hennig Christoph , Baburin Igor , Talyzin Alexandr V.
Published: July 2022

MXene swelling in DMSO occurs with insertion of one solvent layer at ambient temperature. Second layer of DMSO molecules is intercalated into Mxene structure above 362–370 K. Swelling of MXene is absent in primary alcohols longer than ethanol.
ZIF-9(iii) nanosheets synthesized in ionic liquid/ethanol mixture for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Wang Yanyue , Zhang Jianling , Cheng Xiuyan , Sha Yufei , Xu Mingzhao , Su Zhuizhui , Hu Jingyang , Yao Lei
Published: July 2022

ZIF-9(iii) ([Co4(benzimidazole)16]) nanosheets were synthesized in ionic liquid/ethanol solution, and they exhibit high activity for photocatalytic hydrogen production.
The construction of phosphonate triazolyl by copper(ii)-catalyzed furan dearomatized [3 + 2] cycloaddition
Authors: Wahab Abdul , Gao Ziwei , Gou Jing , Yu Binxun
Published: July 2022

Synthesis of triazolyl phosphonates, valuable structural motifs in chemical biology, starting from furfuryl phosphonate alcohols and organo-azides, using an intermolecular copper-catalyzed dearomatized [3 + 2] cycloaddition/furan ring-opening cascade reaction.
Introduction of C-alkyl branches to l-iminosugars changes their active site binding orientation
Authors: Kato Atsushi , Nakagome Izumi , Yoshimura Kosuke , Kanekiyo Uta , Kishida Mana , Shinzawa Kenta , Lu Tian-Tian , Li Yi-Xian , Nash Robert J. , Fleet George W. J. , Tanaka Nobutada , Yu Chu-Yi
Published: July 2022

5-C-Methyl-l-ido-DNJ showed a strong affinity for rhGAA (Ki 0.060 μM). This study provides the first example of a strategy to design high-affinity ligands by introducing alkyl branches into rare sugars and l-sugar-type iminosugars to change the orientation of binding.
Pillar[5]arene based supramolecular polymer for a singlet oxygen reservoir
Authors: Lu Bing , Wang Jian , Zhang Zhecheng , Yan Xin , Zhao Qin , Ding Yue , Wang Jin , Wang Yang , Yao Yong
Published: July 2022

A novel type of supramolecular polymer based on pillararene for the storage and control release of singlet oxygen.
Enhancing Li ion transfer efficacy in PEO-based solid polymer electrolytes to promote cycling stability of Li-metal batteries
Authors: Song Cun , Li Zhengang , Peng Jun , Wu Xiaohong , Peng Hao , Zhou Shiyuan , Qiao Yu , Sun Hui , Huang Ling , Sun Shi-Gang
Published: July 2022

Li+ transfer efficacy enhancement of PEO-based electrolyte, determined via constructing fast Li+ transfer channel and weakened interaction between Li+ and PEO, leading to significant improvement of electrochemical performance of Li-metal batteries.
Improved performance of printed electrochemical sensors via cold atmospheric plasma surface modification
Authors: Sedaghat Sotoudeh , Kasi Venkat , Nejati Sina , Krishnakumar Akshay , Rahimi Rahim
Published: July 2022

Here we report a simple approach to increase the stability performance of all-solid-state electrochemical sensors by improving the interfacial bonding between the ion selective membrane and electrode through cold atmospheric plasma surface treatment.
The eROSITA extragalactic CalPV serendipitous catalog
Authors: Liu Teng , Merloni Andrea , Wolf Julien , Salvato Mara , Reiprich Thomas H. , Comparat Johan , Arcodia Riccardo , Lamer Georg , Georgakakis Antonis , Dwelly Tom , Sanders Jeremy , Buchner Johannes , Haberl Frank , Ramos-Ceja Miriam E. , Wilms Jörn , Nandra Kirpal , Brunner Hermann , Brusa Marcella , Schwope Axel , Robrade Jan , Freyberg Michael , Boller Thomas , Maitra Chandreyee , Veronica Angie , Malyali Adam
Published: July 2022

Context. The eROSITA X-ray telescope on board the Spectrum-Roentgen-Gamma (SRG) observatory performed calibration and performance verification (CalPV) observations between September 2019 and December 2019, ahead of the planned 4-yr all-sky surveys. Most of them were deep, pointing-mode observations.

Aims. We present here the X-ray catalog detected from the set of extra-galactic CalPV observations released to the public by the German eROSITA consortium, and the multiband counterparts of these X-ray sources.

Methods. We developed a source detection method optimized for point-like X-ray sources by including extended X-ray emission in the background measurement. The multiband counterparts were identified using a Bayesian method from the CatWISE catalog.

Results. Combining 11 CalPV fields, we present a catalog containing 9515 X-ray sources, whose X-ray fluxes were measured through spectral fitting. CatWISE counterparts are presented for 77% of the sources. Significant variabilities are found in 99 of the sources, which are also presented with this paper. Most of these fields show similar number counts of point sources as typical extragalactic fields, and a few harbor particular stellar populations.
AMICO galaxy clusters in KiDS-DR3: Constraints on cosmological parameters and on the normalisation of the mass-richness relation from clustering
Authors: Lesci G. F. , Nanni L. , Marulli F. , Moscardini L. , Veropalumbo A. , Maturi M. , Sereno M. , Radovich M. , Bellagamba F. , Roncarelli M. , Bardelli S. , Castignani G. , Covone G. , Giocoli C. , Ingoglia L. , Puddu E.
Published: July 2022

Aims.We analysed the clustering of a photometric sample of galaxy clusters selected from the Third Data Release of the Kilo-Degree Survey, focusing on the redshift-space two-point correlation function (2PCF). We compared our measurements to theoretical predictions of the standard Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmological model.

Methods.We measured the 2PCF of the sample in the cluster-centric radial ranger ∈ [5, 80]h−1Mpc, considering 4934 galaxy clusters with richnessλ* ≥ 15 in the redshift rangez ∈ [0.1, 0.6]. A Markov chain Monte Carlo analysis has been performed to constrain the cosmological parameters Ωm,σ8, andS8 ≡ σ8(Ωm/0.3)0.5, assuming Gaussian priors on the mass-richness relation given by the posteriors obtained from a joint analysis of cluster counts and weak lensing. In addition, we constrained the normalisation of the mass-richness relation,α, with fixed cosmological parameters.

Results.We obtained Ωm= 0.28+0.05−0.04,σ8= 0.82+0.14−0.12, andS8= 0.80+0.08−0.08. The constraint onS8is consistent within 1σwith the results from WMAP andPlanck. Furthermore, by fixing the cosmological parameters to those provided byPlanck, we obtainedα= 0.12+0.06−0.06, which is fully consistent with the result obtained from the joint analysis of cluster counts and weak lensing performed for this sample.