bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MAX deficiency impairs human endometrial decidualization through down-regulating OSR2 in women with recurrent spontaneous abortion
Authors: Ma Weixu , Cao Mingzhu , Bi Shilei , Du Lili , Chen Jingsi , Wang Haibin , Jiang Yufei , Wu Yixuan , Liao Yixin , Kong Shuangbo , Liu Jianqiao
Published: February 2022

Human uterine stromal cell undergoes decidualization for pregnancy establishment and maintenance, which involved extensive proliferation and differentiation. Increasing studies have suggested that recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) may result from defective endometrial stromal decidualization. However, the critical molecular mechanisms underlying impaired decidualization during RSA are still elusive. By using our recently published single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) atlas, we found that MYC-associated factor X (MAX) was significantly downregulated in the stromal cells derived from decidual tissues of women with RSA, followed by verification with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). MAX knockdown significantly impairs human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) proliferation as determined by MTS assay and Ki67 immunostaining, and decidualization determined by F-actin, and decidualization markers. RNA-seq together with chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and cleavage under targets and release using nuclease sequencing (CUT&RUN-seq) analysis were applied to explore the molecular mechanisms of MAX in regulation of decidualization, followed by dual-luciferase reporter assay to verify that MAX targets to (odd-skipped related transcription factor 2) OSR2 directly. Reduced expression of OSR2 was also confirmed in decidual tissues in women with RSA by IHC and qRT-PCR. OSR2 knockdown also significantly impairs HESCs decidualization. OSR2-overexpression could at least partly rescue the downregulated insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) expression level in response to MAX knockdown. Collectively, MAX deficiency observed in RSA stromal cells not only attenuates HESCs proliferation but also impairs HESCs decidualization by downregulating OSR2 expression at transcriptional level directly.
Morphologies, dimensions and targets of gastric nitric oxide synthase neurons
Authors: Di Natale Madeleine R. , Hunne Billie , Liew Jamie J. M. , Fothergill Linda J. , Stebbing Martin J. , Furness John B.
Published: February 2022

We investigated the distributions and targets of nitrergic neurons in the rat stomach, using neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS) immunohistochemistry and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) diaphorase histochemistry. Nitrergic neurons comprised similar proportions of myenteric neurons, about 30%, in all gastric regions. Small numbers of nitrergic neurons occurred in submucosal ganglia. In total, there were ~ 125,000 neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) neurons in the stomach. The myenteric cell bodies had single axons, type I morphology and a wide range of sizes. Five targets were identified, the longitudinal, circular and oblique layers of the external muscle, the muscularis mucosae and arteries within the gastric wall. The circular and oblique muscle layers had nitrergic fibres throughout their thickness, while the longitudinal muscle was innervated at its inner surface by fibres of the tertiary plexus, a component of the myenteric plexus. There was a very dense innervation of the pyloric sphincter, adjacent to the duodenum. The muscle strands that run between mucosal glands rarely had closely associated nNOS nerve fibres. Both nNOS immunohistochemistry and NADPH histochemistry showed that nitrergic terminals did not provide baskets of terminals around myenteric neurons. Thus, the nitrergic neuron populations in the stomach supply the muscle layers and intramural arteries, but, unlike in the intestine, gastric interneurons do not express nNOS. The large numbers of nNOS neurons and the density of innervation of the circular muscle and pyloric sphincter suggest that there is a finely graded control of motor function in the stomach by the recruitment of different numbers of inhibitory motor neurons.
Efficacy of Siriraj, in-house-developed, frozen gloves for cold therapy reduction of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in gynecological cancer patients: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chitkumarn Phreerakan , Rahong Tharinee , Achariyapota Vuthinun
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of cold therapy in reducing paclitaxel-based, chemotherapy-induced, peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). The secondary objective was to establish the incidence of CIPN arising from paclitaxel administration.

Materials and methods

The study enrolled gynecological cancer patients who were aged over 18 years and receiving chemotherapy which included paclitaxel (175 mg/m2 every 3 weeks). The patients were allocated to control and cold-therapy groups by computer randomization. During paclitaxel administration, frozen gloves developed in-house by Siriraj Hospital were worn—with a cold pack inside—on both hands and both feet by the cold-therapy patients. The CIPN incidence was evaluated by FACT/GOG-Ntx (version 4) at each chemotherapy cycle and at the 1-month follow-up after treatment completion.

Results

There were 79 patients (control arm, 40; study arm, 39). The CIPN incidences in the control and cold-therapy groups were 100% and 48.7%, respectively. CIPN was significantly decreased in the intervention group between the first cycle and the 1 month follow-up after chemotherapy cessation (P value < 0.001). Four patients discontinued the cold therapy due to pain, but there were no serious adverse effects due to the therapy.

Conclusion

The Siriraj Hospital, in-house-developed, frozen gloves can reduce CIPN effectively as part of cold therapy for paclitaxel-based chemotherapy. The benefits of using the gloves are apparent from the first chemotherapy cycle to the 1-month, post-treatment follow-up assessment.
Ground states of semilinear elliptic problems with applications to the Allen–Cahn equation on the sphere
Authors: Caju Rayssa , Gaspar Pedro , Guaraco Marco A. M. , Matthiesen Henrik
Published: February 2022

We study solutions of$$\Delta u - F'(u)=0$$Δu-F′(u)=0, where the potentialFcan have an arbitrary number of wells at arbitrary heights, including bottomless wells with subcritical decay. In our setting,ground statesolutions correspond to unstable solutions of least energy. We show that in convex domains of$${\mathbb {R}}^N$$RNand manifolds with$${\text {Ric}}\ge 0$$Ric≥0, ground states are always of mountain-pass type and have Morse index 1. In addition, we prove symmetry of the ground states if the domain is either an Euclidean ball or the entire sphere$$S^{N}$$SN. For the Allen–Cahn equation$$\varepsilon ^2\Delta u - W'(u)=0$$ε2Δu-W′(u)=0on$$S^{N}$$SN, we prove the ground state is unique up to rotations and corresponds to the equator as a minimal hypersurface. We also study bifurcation at the energy level of the ground state as$$\varepsilon \rightarrow 0$$ε→0, showing that the first$$N+1$$N+1min-max Allen–Cahn widths of$$S^{N}$$SNare ground states, and we prove a gap theorem for the corresponding$$(N+2)$$(N+2)-th min-max solution.
Audio-visual stimulation for visual compensatory functions in stroke survivors with visual field defect: a systematic review
Authors: Alwashmi Kholoud , Meyer Georg , Rowe Fiona J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Hemianopia is a complete or partial blindness in the visual fields of both eyes, commonly caused by cerebral infarction. It has been hypothesized that systematic audio-visual (AV) stimulation of the blind hemifield can improve accuracy and search times, probably due to the stimulation of bimodal representations in the superior colliculus (SC), an important multisensory structure involved in both the initiation and execution of saccades.

Methods

A narrative synthesis of the findings is presented to highlight how AV rehabilitation impacts on patients with hemianopia including visual oculomotor function, functional ability in activities of daily living, hemianopic dyslexia, visual scanning and searching tasks, maintaining of functional ability post training and the effect on brain multisensory integration by using neuroimaging.

Results

Sixteen studies were included (fourteen articles (188 participants) and two literature reviews). Results were grouped into AV training of hemianopia in adults and in children and then further grouped according to the AV task type: tasks measuring the training effects by comparing visual stimulation training to audio-visual training, localization abilities in homonymous hemianopia (HH) and AV integration in patients with HH.

Conclusion

Systematic AV training may improve the processing of visual information by recruiting subcortical pathways, and because most of the patients with visual cortex damage have an intact SC, it might be useful to use the bimodal AV training to activate retinotectal functions. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms supporting the reported positive effects are not currently understood. Systematic functional and/or structural imaging studies may help in understanding the underlying mechanism and inform the design of optimal training paradigms.
Cardiac sympathetic innervation in Parkinson’s disease versus multiple system atrophy
Authors: Eckhardt Christine , Krismer Florian , Donnemiller Eveline , Eschlböck Sabine , Fanciulli Alessandra , Raccagni Cecilia , Bösch Sylvia , Mair Katherina , Scherfler Christoph , Djamshidian Atbin , Uprimny Christian , Metzler Bernhard , Seppi Klaus , Poewe Werner , Kiechl Stefan , Virgolini Irene , Wenning Gregor K.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The aims of this study were to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the dual imaging method combining cardiac iodine-123-metaiodobenzylguanidine single-photon emission computed tomography combined with low-dose chest computed tomography compared to routine cardiac scintigraphy, and assess regional differences in tracer distribution and the relationships between imaging and autonomic function in Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy.

Methods

A prospective study including 19 Parkinson’s disease and 12 multiple system atrophy patients was performed. Patients underwent clinical evaluation, iodine-123-metaiodobenzylguanidine single-photon emission computed tomography combined with chest computed tomography, planar scintigraphy, and cardiovascular autonomic function tests.

Results

Co-registration of single-photon emission computed tomography and chest computed tomography resulted in three groups with distinct patterns of tracer uptake: homogeneous, non-homogeneously reduced and absent. There was a significant difference in group allocation among patients with multiple system atrophy and Parkinson’s disease (p = 0.001). Most multiple system atrophy patients showed homogeneous uptake, and the majority of Parkinson’s disease patients showed absent cardiac tracer uptake. We identified a pattern of heterogeneous cardiac tracer uptake in both diseases with reductions in the apex and the lateral myocardial wall. Sympathetic dysfunction reflected by a missing blood pressure overshoot during Valsalva manoeuvre correlated with cardiac tracer distribution in Parkinson’s disease patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The diagnostic accuracy of the dual imaging method and routine cardiac scintigraphy were similar. Anatomical tracer allocation provided by the dual imaging method of cardiac iodine-123-metaiodobenzylguanidine single-photon emission computed tomography and chest computed tomography identified a heterogeneous subgroup of Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy patients with reduced cardiac tracer uptake in the apex and the lateral wall. Sympathetic dysfunction correlated with cardiac imaging in Parkinson’s disease patients.
Weighted sparse simplex representation: a unified framework for subspace clustering, constrained clustering, and active learning
Authors: Peng Hankui , Pavlidis Nicos G.
Published: February 2022

Spectral-based subspace clustering methods have proved successful in many challenging applications such as gene sequencing, image recognition, and motion segmentation. In this work, we first propose a novel spectral-based subspace clustering algorithm that seeks to represent each point as a sparse convex combination of a few nearby points. We then extend the algorithm to a constrained clustering and active learning framework. Our motivation for developing such a framework stems from the fact that typically either a small amount of labelled data are available in advance; or it is possible to label some points at a cost. The latter scenario is typically encountered in the process of validating a cluster assignment. Extensive experiments on simulated and real datasets show that the proposed approach is effective and competitive with state-of-the-art methods.
Band Gaps in Metamaterial Plates: Asymptotic Homogenization and Bloch-Floquet Approaches
Authors: Faraci David , Comi Claudia , Marigo Jean-Jacques
Published: February 2022

In this work, we study the transversal vibration of thin periodic elastic plates through asymptotic homogenization. In particular, we consider soft inclusions and rigid inclusions with soft coatings embedded in a stiff matrix. The method provides a general expression for the dynamic surface density of the plate, which we compute analytically for circular inclusions or numerically for two-way ribbed plates. Through asymptotic homogenization, we find that band gaps related to in-plane propagating transversal waves occur for frequency intervals in which the effective surface density is negative. The same result is obtained via an asymptotic analysis of the Bloch-Floquet problem on a unit cell, showing the equivalence of the two approaches. Finally, we validate the method by comparing in several examples the predicted band gaps with those obtained from numerical Bloch-Floquet analyses on the real unit cell.
On sustainable improvements of agricultural practices in the Bairrada region (Portugal)
Authors: Cunha Maria C. , Serpa Dalila , Marques João , Keizer Jan J. , Abrantes Nelson
Published: February 2022

The objective of this paper is to develop a framework to overcome problems of soil nutrient legacies and poor quality of water bodies raised by agricultural practices. A multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach is proposed to evaluate different alternatives to help to define sustainable vineyard agricultural solutions. The methodology developed was applied to a basin in the north-central part of Portugal, the São Lourenço basin. The land cover of the basin consists predominantly of vines. A number of alternatives based on different vineyard management practices and land use are evaluated against environmental and socioeconomic criteria by means of the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model and considering information included in some databases. The preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation (PROMETHEE) outranking method is used to rank the alternatives and to evaluate weight stability intervals assigned to criteria. A supplementary analysis is performed by a different MCDA method (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS)), belonging to the family of compensatory methods, to provide additional insights to the decision makers. The results show the best and the worst alternatives for vineyard agricultural practices according to the weights assigned to the criteria. The sensitivity analysis of the weights indicated most stable ranking cases and the criterion that presents the narrow stability intervals. This work offers the opportunity to discuss comparisons between different types of agricultural practices and give insights for future developments of other areas where intensive vineyard cultivation is implemented.
Potential ameliorative role of Spirulina platensis in powdered or extract forms against cyclic heat stress in broiler chickens
Authors: Elbaz Ahmed M. , Ahmed Ayman M. H. , Abdel-Maqsoud Ahmed , Badran Aml M. M. , Abdel-Moneim Abdel-Moneim Eid
Published: February 2022

Global warming has become intensified and widespread, threatening the world with causing acute heatwaves that adversely affect poultry production and producers' profitability.Spirulina platensisis a precious and promising mitigating strategy to combat the detrimental impacts of heat stress due to its high contents of nutrients and bioactive components. The current study was designed to compare the incorporation impact ofS. platensispowder or aqueous extract on the growth and physiological responses of heat-stressed broiler chicks. Six hundred 1-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were allocated into five experimental groups with six replicates of 20 chicks each. The control group fed the basal diet without additives, SPP1 and SPP2 groups fed the basal diet with 1 g/kg and 2 g/kgS. platensispowder, respectively, while SPE1 and SPE2 groups received 1 ml/L and 2 ml/LS. platensisaqueous extract in the drinking water, respectively. All birds were exposed to cyclic heat stress (34 ± 2 °C for 12 h) for three successive days a week from day 10 to day 35. In vitro analysis showed that total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity ofS. platensiswere remarkably decreased (P < 0.001) in the aqueous extract compared to the powder form. Body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were improved (P < 0.001) in all treated groups, while carcass yield and dressing percentage were increased only in SPP1 and SPP2. Feed and water intake and blood biochemical parameters were not affected. Both forms ofS. platensisenhanced the lipid profile, redox status, and humoral immune response of heat-stressed chicks superior to the powder form. Conclusively, the powder form ofS. platensiswas more effective in enhancing the productivity of broilers and alleviating the negative impacts of heat stress than the aqueous extract form.
Variations of soil phosphatase activity and phosphorus fractions in ginger fields exposed to different years of chloropicrin fumigation
Authors: Wang Yan , Yang Xiaomei , Xu Minggang , Geissen Violette
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Although soil fumigation efficiently controls soil-borne diseases, the effects of repeated soil fumigation on soil phosphorus (P) cycling are still largely unknown.

Methods

In this study we conducted a field experiment to explore soil phosphorus availability in ginger fields with 0, 3, and 7 years (F0, F3, and F7) of annual chloropicrin (CP) fumigation history in Shandong Province of China. Soil samples (0–20 cm) were collected at four different times in 2019. Ginger yield, soil phosphatase (acid and alkaline) activities, and soil P fractions were measured.

Results

Results showed that ginger rhizome yield was similar in F0 and F3 (70.0 t ha−1), but significantly lower in F7 (37.5 t ha−1). The acid phosphatase (AiP) activity was significantly higher in F0, while alkaline phosphatase (AlP) activity was the highest in F3. There was no significant difference in the available P (resin-P + NaHCO3-P + NaOH-P) between F0 and F7, with 33.6 to 57.5% of total P (TP), while the available P was significantly lower in F3, being less than 30% of TP. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the highest pH values in F3 contributed to the lowest soil P availability there. AiP activities showed highly positive effects on the soil labile P contents.

Conclusion

Results suggested that more P fertilizers are needed after 3 years of CP fumigation to avoid soil P deficiency for ginger growth. The death of ginger became the main limitation for ginger production after 7 years of CP fumigation, at which time, comprehensive agricultural practices should be considered to control ginger soil-borne diseases.
Identifying Late Iron Age textile plant fibre materials with microscopy and X-ray methods — a study on finds from Ravattula Ristimäki (Kaarina, Finland)
Authors: Suomela Jenni A. , Suhonen Heikki , Räisänen Riikka , Wright Krista
Published: February 2022

In Finland, the earliest remains of a Christian church and cemetery date to the Late Iron Age (800–1150/1300 AD) and have been excavated in Ravattula Ristimäki, in Kaarina, southwestern Finland. In this study, seven assumingly plant fibre textile samples from individual inhumation graves were analysed to identify their materials. The aim of the study was to investigate the possibilities of identifying archaeological plant fibre samples using a three-stage procedure by observing the surface characteristics, microfibrillar orientation and cross section of the fibres via transmitted light microscopy (TLM). The identification process was based on such a TLM characterisation. Additionally, parts of the samples were studied with X-ray microtomography (micro-CT) and wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) to test the possibilities of using the X-ray methods in research and to identify bast fibre textiles. Both flax and nettle were found in the samples, indicating a preference for these two fibre plants in Late Iron Age Finland.
Toward a Demsetzian Knowledge Theory
Authors: Maltsev Vladimir Vladimirovich , Yudanov Andrei Yurievich
Published: February 2022

The paper attempts to outline a general theory of knowledge in economics based on the work of Harold Demsetz. We identify that “knowledge encapsulation” is a key Demsetzian idea that could unite the otherwise fragmented or narrow research on knowledge in economics. The knowledge encapsulation concept holds that mobilizing cognitive resources and acting under full knowledge is costly. This creates an incentive to compress knowledge into an algorithmic form, which can then be transferred in a cost-efficient manner between a multitude of agents. From this idea of Demsetz, we create a simple theoretical model. To prove its generalizability, we extrapolate it onto a wide range of cases, from traditions and superstitions to institutions and division of knowledge. We conclude that knowledge encapsulation applies to an extensive array of phenomena. However, such encapsulation must also be supplemented by adequate enforcement and mechanisms of coping with ex-post consequences of its use. If our analysis is correct, then the Demsetzian theory could be a strong contender for becoming a fruitful alternative research paradigm on knowledge in economics.
Impact of monsoon shower on the hydrogeochemistry of groundwater along the lithological contact: a case study from South India
Authors: Natesan Devaraj , Sabarathinam Chidambaram , Kamaraj Pradeep , Mathivanan Mahalakshmi , Haji Muhammed , Mohan Viswanathan Prasanna , Chandrasekaran Thivya , Rajendran Thilagavathi
Published: February 2022

Groundwater chemistry is mainly governed by lithological variations, space and resident time. In addition, hydrogeochemical characteristics of groundwater in the lithological contact zones are too complex. Hence, Cretaceous–Tertiary (KT) boundary from Ariyalur district, Tamilnadu, India, was selected for this study to identify the hydrogeochemistry of groundwater. This study includes 284 groundwater samples from four different seasons (pre-monsoon, post-monsoon, southwest monsoon and northeast monsoon). Groundwater samples were collected and analysed for major cations and anions, including physical parameters using standard procedures. High electrical conductivity (EC) showed the longer residence time of groundwater in hard rock region at the central and southern part of the study area. Ca2+, Na+, Cl− and HCO3− are the dominant ions in all the four seasons. The seasonal composition migration was observed from Na–Ca–Cl–HCO3 type to Na–Mg–Cl–HCO3 type, and Ca-HCO3 is the predominant water type in piper plot. Interpretation of data reveals that the groundwater quality was unsuitable for domestic and irrigation purposes during pre- and southwest monsoon seasons. Rock–water interaction and dissolution of minerals are the main sources of groundwater chemistry. Agriculture activities during monsoonal seasons also play a role in  controlling the hydrogeochemistry of groundwater in this region.
Interactions of Ag nanoparticles with humic acid present in surface water
Authors: Basumallick Srijita
Published: February 2022

The present paper reports aggregation behaviour of humic acid (HA) in the presence of silver nanoparticles. Aggregation behaviour has been studied from dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurement, in the presence of silver nanoparticle. Silver nanoparticle has been prepared through chemical route and characterized by plasmon resonance spectroscopy. HA used in the study has been characterized by UV–Vis and fluorescence study; its charged state has been evaluated from the study of its interaction with a cationic dye ruthenium bipyridine. It has been found that HA forms small–medium- and large-sized aggregates in the presence of silver nanoparticle as obtained from DLS diameter. The result has been explained in terms of Langmuir–Hinshelwood adsorption model. It has been proposed that hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction play an important role in the formation of aggregates of HA.
On expected face numbers of random beta and beta’ polytopes
Authors: Kabluchko Zakhar
Published: February 2022

The random beta polytope is defined as the convex hull of n independent random points with the density proportional to $$(1-\Vert x\Vert ^2)^\beta $$

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Low concentration isopropanol gas sensing properties of Ag nanoparticles decorated In2O3 hollow spheres
Authors: Zhang Chao , Huan Yunchun , Li Ying , Luo Yifan , Debliquy Marc
Published: February 2022

In order to detect low concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the early diagnosis of lung cancer, sensors based on hollow spheres of In2O3 were prepared through the soft template method. Ag nanoparticle decorated In2O3 composites were synthesized via dipping and annealing. The microstructure, phase composition, element distribution, and state of Ag were analyzed by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The gas sensing tests showed that Ag-In2O3 sensors had the highest response to isopropanol at 300 °C. The best response of Ag-In2O3 composite sensor was 5.2, which had a significant improvement compared with only In2O3. Moreover, the response and recovery time of Ag-In2O3 composite sensor was significantly shortened. The improved sensing properties of Ag-In2O3 composite sensor could be attributed to the Schottky barrier created at Ag-In2O3 interface and catalytical effect of Ag.
Continuous SiC skeleton reinforced highly oriented graphite flake composites with high strength and specific thermal conductivity
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Xie Wenqi , Sun Lan , Wei Zhilei , Zhang Zhejian , Zhu Yuanyuan , Hu Jiabin , Wang Shenghe , Shi Zhongqi
Published: February 2022

Highly oriented graphite-based composites have attracted great attention because of their high thermal conductivity (TC), but the low mechanical properties caused by the inhomogeneous distribution and discontinuity of reinforcements restrict the wide applications. Herein, continuous SiC ceramic skeleton reinforced highly oriented graphite flake (SiC/GF) composites were successfully prepared by combining vacuum filtration and spark plasma sintering. The effect of SiC concentration on the microstructure, flexural strength, and thermophysical properties of the composites was investigated. The GF grains in the composites exhibited high orientation with a Lotgering factor of > 88% when the SiC concentration was ⩽ 30 wt%, and the SiC skeleton became continuous with the SiC concentration reaching 20 wt%. The formation of continuous SiC skeleton improved the flexural strength of the composites effectively while keeping the TC in a high level. Especially, the composites with 30 wt% SiC exhibited the flexural strength up to 105 MPa, and the specific TC reaching 0.118 W·m2·K−1·kg·1. The composites with excellent flexural strength and thermophysical properties showed significant promise for thermal management applications.
Remarkably enhanced piezo-photocatalytic performance in BaTiO3/CuO heterostructures for organic pollutant degradation
Authors: Yu Chengye , Tan Mengxi , Tao Chengdong , Hou Yuxuan , Liu Chuanbao , Meng Huimin , Su Yanjing , Qiao Lijie , Bai Yang
Published: February 2022

Introducing polarization field of piezoelectric materials is an effective strategy to improve photocatalytic performance. In this study, a new type of BaTiO3/CuO heterostructure catalyst was designed and synthesized to achieve high piezo-photocatalytic activity through the synergy of heterojunction and piezoelectric effect. The BaTiO3/CuO heterostructure shows a significantly enhanced piezo-photocatalytic degradation efficiency of organic pollutants compared with the individual BaTiO3 nanowires (NWs) and CuO nanoparticles (NPs). Under the co-excitation of ultrasonic vibration and ultraviolet radiation, the optimal degradation reaction rate constant k of polarized BaTiO3/CuO heterostructure on methyl orange (MO) dye can reach 0.05 min−1, which is 6.1 times of photocatalytic rate and 7 times of piezocatalytic rate. The BaTiO3/CuO heterostructure with remarkable piezo-photocatalytic behavior provides a promising strategy for the development of high-efficiency catalysts for wastewater purification, and it also helps understand the coupling mechanism between piezoelectric effect and photocatalysis.
Cavity-Suppressing Electrode Integrated with Multi-Quantum Well Emitter: A Universal Approach Toward High-Performance Blue TADF Top Emission OLED
Authors: Jang Il Gyu , Murugadoss Vignesh , Park Tae Hoon , Son Kyung Rock , Lee Ho Jin , Ren WanQi , Yu Min Ji , Kim Tae Geun
Published: February 2022

A novel device structure for thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) top emission organic light-emitting diodes (TEOLEDs) that improves the viewing angle characteristics and reduces the efficiency roll-off is presented. Furthermore, we describe the design and fabrication of a cavity-suppressing electrode (CSE), Ag (12 nm)/WO3 (65 nm)/Ag (12 nm) that can be used as a transparent cathode. While the TADF-TEOLED fabricated using the CSE exhibits higher external quantum efficiency (EQE) and improved angular dependency than the device fabricated using the microcavity-based Ag electrode, it suffers from low color purity and severe efficiency roll-off. These drawbacks can be reduced by using an optimized multi-quantum well emissive layer (MQW EML). The CSE-based TADF-TEOLED with an MQW EML fabricated herein exhibits a high EQE (18.05%), high color purity (full width at half maximum ~ 59 nm), reduced efficiency roll-off (~ 46% at 1000 cd m−2), and low angular dependence. These improvements can be attributed to the synergistic effect of the CSE and MQW EML. An optimized transparent CSE improves charge injection and light outcoupling with low angular dependence, and the MQW EML effectively confines charges and excitons, thereby improving the color purity and EQE significantly. The proposed approach facilitates the optimization of multiple output characteristics of TEOLEDs for future display applications.
Identifying large-scale interaction atlases using probabilistic graphs and external knowledge
Authors: Chanumolu Sree K. , Otu Hasan H.
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Reconstruction of gene interaction networks from experimental data provides a deep understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms. The noisy nature of the data and the large size of the network make this a very challenging task. Complex approaches handle the stochastic nature of the data but can only do this for small networks; simpler, linear models generate large networks but with less reliability.

Methods:

We propose a divide-and-conquer approach using probabilistic graph representations and external knowledge. We cluster the experimental data and learn an interaction network for each cluster, which are merged using the interaction network for the representative genes selected for each cluster.

Results:

We generated an interaction atlas for 337 human pathways yielding a network of 11,454 genes with 17,777 edges. Simulated gene expression data from this atlas formed the basis for reconstruction. Based on the area under the curve of the precision-recall curve, the proposed approach outperformed the baseline (random classifier) by ∼15-fold and conventional methods by ∼5–17-fold. The performance of the proposed workflow is significantly linked to the accuracy of the clustering step that tries to identify the modularity of the underlying biological mechanisms.

Conclusions:

We provide an interaction atlas generation workflow optimizing the algorithm/parameter selection. The proposed approach integrates external knowledge in the reconstruction of the interactome using probabilistic graphs. Network characterization and understanding long-range effects in interaction atlases provide means for comparative analysis with implications in biomarker discovery and therapeutic approaches. The proposed workflow is freely available at http://otulab.unl.edu/atlas.
“Send My Information”: Increasing public accessibility to clinical trials by facilitating participant expression of interest
Authors: Dunkel Leah , Byrne Loretta M. , Olson Erik , Russell Michael , Tan Jason , Phillips Kaysi , Wilkins Consuelo H. , Harris Paul A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

The process of identifying and connecting with clinical trial study teams can be challenging and difficult for members of the public. The national volunteer community registry, ResearchMatch, and the public clinical trials search tool, Trials Today, work in tandem to bridge this connection by providing a streamlined process for potential participants to identify clinical trials which may be of interest.

Methods:

Building on the existing infrastructure of ResearchMatch and Trials Today, we created a mechanism by which the public can request that their basic contact information (e.g., email/phone) be securely shared with any actively recruiting clinical trial, including trials with no existing relationship with ResearchMatch.

Results:

Within the first 2 years of use (July 2019–July 2021), ResearchMatch Volunteers sent 12,251 requests to study teams. On average, 20% of these requests were accepted by the study teams.

Conclusions:

The utilization of this tool indicates that there is active interest among members of the public to independently contact study teams about trials of interest. Additionally, research teams unaffiliated with ResearchMatch are willing to at minimum accept contact information. This allows ResearchMatch to successfully serve as a medium, connecting members of the public with actively recruiting trials.
The Records of the Human Sciences Research Council
Authors: Maaba Brown
Published: February 2022

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is South Africa’s foremost non-teaching social science research body. In this paper, the author gives an overview of its records, recently uncovered in the institution’s building in Pretoria. To academics, policy makers, and all those interested in South Africa’s intellectual and institutional history, these records are important in seeking to understanding the HSRC itself and other apartheid institutions. In addition, exploration of its history can, amongst other things, help to shape policy in liberated South Africa towards higher educational and research institutions in the light of their historical legacy of apartheid and segregation. The author cautions that, as researchers embark upon exploring the history of the HSRC, they should avoid romanticizing it but rather confront its nuances and challenges head on.
LioNeo project: a randomised double-blind clinical trial for nutrition of very-low-birth-weight infants
Authors: Nogueira-Pileggi Vicky , Achcar Maria Carolina , Carmona Fábio , Carnevale da Silva Adriana , Aragon Davi Casale , da Veiga Ued Fabio , Moraes de Oliveira Mariana , Mara Monti Fonseca Luciana , Garcia Alves Larissa , Silva Bomfim Vanessa , Beltramini Trevilato Tania Maria , Condé Brondi Delácio Mayara , Takeko Amorim Minakawa de Freitas Cyntia , dos Santos Porto Viviane , de Castro Barbosa Leonello Daniela , de Paiva Martins Natalia , Gasparini Marigheti Brassaro Heloisa , Muyssi-Pinhata Marisa Márcia , Camelo Junior José Simon
Published: February 2022

We assessed the effectiveness of lyophilised banked human milk (HM) as a fortifier to feed very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBWI). This study aimed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of HM with HM lyophilisate as an additive compared with the standard additive (cows’ milk protein). In this phase I double-blind randomised controlled clinical trial, set in the intensive and intermediate care units of a tertiary hospital, forty VLBWI were enrolled and allocated into two groups: HM plus HM lyophilisate (LioNeo) or HM plus commercial additive (HMCA). The inclusion criteria were preterm infants, birth weight 750–1500 g, small or adequate for gestational age, exclusively receiving donor HM, volume ≥ 100 ml/kg per d and haemodynamically stable. Participants were followed up for 21 consecutive days. The primary outcome measures were necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), late-onset sepsis (LOS), death, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding or perforation, diarrhoea, regurgitation, vomiting and abdominal distension. The LioNeo and HMCA groups had similar weights at baseline. The regression models showed no differences between the groups in terms of the primary outcomes. Diarrhoea, GI perforation, NEC and LOS were absent in the LioNeo group (one LOS and one NEC in the HMCA group). Multiple regression analysis with the total volume of milk as a covariate did not show significant differences. The lyophilisation of donor HM was considered safe and tolerable for use in stable haemodynamically VLBWI.
Understanding Ambivalent Sexism and its Relationship with Electoral Choice in Britain
Authors: de Geus Roosmarijn , Ralph-Morrow Elizabeth , Shorrocks Rosalind
Published: February 2022

We investigate the prevalence and correlates of sexism in the British political context, using a measure of ambivalent sexism that distinguishes between hostile and benevolent sexist attitudes. Drawing on original data from two nationally representative online surveys, we find that more than half of the population hold some sexist attitudes and that these are predicted by gender, education, religiosity and authoritarian values. We demonstrate that the most significant division in sexist attitudes within the British electorate falls along political rather than gender lines, with men and women expressing more similar views about sexism than either Conservative and Labour voters, or Leave and Remain supporters. We also find that endorsing hostile sexism is associated with voting Conservative in the 2019 general election, even after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and political values. Our findings reveal that sexism is important for political competition in contexts where gender is not obviously salient.
Psychopathology in adults with copy number variants
Authors: Adams Rachael L. , Baird Alister , Smith Jacqueline , Williams Nigel , van den Bree Marianne B. M. , Linden David E. J. , Owen Michael J. , Hall Jeremy , Linden Stefanie C.
Published: February 2022

Background

Copy number variants (CNVs) have been associated with the risk of schizophrenia, autism and intellectual disability. However, little is known about their spectrum of psychopathology in adulthood.

Methods

We investigated the psychiatric phenotypes of adult CNV carriers and compared probands, who were ascertained through clinical genetics services, with carriers who were not. One hundred twenty-four adult participants (age 18–76), each bearing one of 15 rare CNVs, were recruited through a variety of sources including clinical genetics services, charities for carriers of genetic variants, and online advertising. A battery of psychiatric assessments was used to determine psychopathology.

Results

The frequencies of psychopathology were consistently higher for the CNV group compared to general population rates. We found particularly high rates of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) (48%), mood disorders (42%), anxiety disorders (47%) and personality disorders (73%) as well as high rates of psychiatric multimorbidity (median number of diagnoses: 2 in non-probands, 3 in probands). NDDs [odds ratio (OR) = 4.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.32–16.51; p = 0.017) and psychotic disorders (OR = 6.8, 95% CI 1.3–36.3; p = 0.025) occurred significantly more frequently in probands (N = 45; NDD: 39[87%]; psychosis: 8[18%]) than non-probands (N = 79; NDD: 20 [25%]; psychosis: 3[4%]). Participants also had somatic diagnoses pertaining to all organ systems, particularly conotruncal cardiac malformations (in individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome specifically), musculoskeletal, immunological, and endocrine diseases.

Conclusions

Adult CNV carriers had a markedly increased rate of anxiety and personality disorders not previously reported and high rates of psychiatric multimorbidity. Our findings support in-depth psychiatric and medical assessments of carriers of CNVs and the establishment of multidisciplinary clinical services.
Unusually large components in near-critical Erdős–Rényi graphs via ballot theorems
Authors: De Ambroggio Umberto , Roberts Matthew I.
Published: February 2022

We consider the near-critical Erdős–Rényi random graph G(n, p) and provide a new probabilistic proof of the fact that, when p is of the form
$p=p(n)=1/n+\lambda/n^{4/3}$
and A is large,

\begin{equation*}\mathbb{P}(|\mathcal{C}_{\max}|>An^{2/3})\asymp A^{-3/2}e^{-\frac{A^3}{8}+\frac{\lambda A^2}{2}-\frac{\lambda^2A}{2}},\end{equation*}
where
$\mathcal{C}_{\max}$
is the largest connected component of the graph. Our result allows A and
$\lambda$
to depend on n. While this result is already known, our proof relies only on conceptual and adaptable tools such as ballot theorems, whereas the existing proof relies on a combinatorial formula specific to Erdős–Rényi graphs, together with analytic estimates.
Pension fund board governance and asset allocation: evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Bregnard Nadège , Salva Carolina
Published: February 2022

We study whether pension fund board governance relates to asset allocation. Pension funds with well-governed boards have greater international diversification, lower cash holdings, and, when pension funds are small, invest more in risky assets. In particular, pension fund boards that establish comprehensive investment policies invest more in equities, in foreign assets, and hold less cash. We argue that a comprehensive investment policy is likely to serve as a proxy for the financial expertise available to the fund while it provides the set up to facilitate decision making. Finally, we further show that the presence of external financial experts is also associated with lower cash holdings.
Combining stale seedbed with deep rice planting: a novel approach to herbicide resistance management?
Authors: Ceseski Alex R. , Godar Amar S. , Al-Khatib Kassim
Published: February 2022

Water seeding is a common cropping strategy in mechanized rice systems. Water seeding of rice can suppress grass weeds, but it can also encourage aquatic weeds and grass ecotypes that escape deep floodwater. In addition, water seeding prevents many cultural methods of weed control and limits available herbicides. Selection pressure from a limited palette of herbicides has resulted in widespread resistance in rice grown in California. This study examined a novel combination of drill seeding and a stale seedbed (“stale-drill”) as a means of using a nonselective herbicide to manage weeds before rice emergence. In 2016 and 2017, rice cultivar ‘M-206’ was drilled at a rate of 120 kg ha−1 to 1.3-cm, 2.5-cm, and 5.1-cm depths. Planting rice deeper than 1.3 cm delayed emergence by 3 to 4 d. A postplant-burndown (PPB) treatment of glyphosate at 870 g ha−1 was applied just prior to rice emergence. Treatment delays had mixed effects on weed control. PPB treatment was more effective at controlling Echinochloa spp. in 2017, reducing density by 30%, 48%, and 73% at 1.3-cm, 2.5-cm, and 5.1-cm seeding depths, respectively. The greatest overall weed control either year was found with applications of glyphosate + pendimethalin followed by penoxsulam + cyhalofop at 1.3-cm planting depth. Rice stand and yield components were more strongly affected by planting depth in 2017 than in 2016, possibly owing to cool weather immediately after seeding. Yields in 2017 were reduced in deeper plantings by up to 72%. Therefore, if the stale-drill method is implemented with higher-vigor cultivars or higher seeding rates, we see potential in this method as a useful tool for reducing herbicide-resistant weeds in rice fields.
High‐Resolution Climate Projections Over Minnesota for the 21st Century
Authors: Liess Stefan , Twine Tracy E. , Snyder Peter K. , Hutchison William D. , Konar‐Steenberg Gabriel , Keeler Bonnie L. , Brauman Kate A.
Published: February 2022

Minnesota is the state with the strongest winter warming in the contiguous United States. We performed regional climate projections at 10 km horizontal resolution using the Weather Research Forecasting model forced with eight CMIP5 GCMs. The selected GCMs have previously been found to be in relatively good agreement with observations over Minnesota compared to other members of the CMIP5 model ensemble. Our projections suggest ongoing warming in all seasons, especially in winter, as well as shallower snow depth and fewer days with snow cover. We expect significant increases in spring and early summer heavy precipitation events. Our comparisons between different time slices and two different emission scenarios indicate a climate for the state of Minnesota near the end of the 21st century that is significantly different from what has been observed by the end of the 20th century. Winters and summers are expected to be up to 6 and 4°C warmer, respectively, over northern and central Minnesota, and spring precipitation may increase by more than 1 mm d−1 over northern Minnesota. Especially over the central part of the state, winter snow depth is projected to decrease by more than 12 cm, and the number of days per year with snow depth of more than 2.54 cm (one inch) is expected to decrease by up to 55.