bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of hydrolytic degradation of polyglycolic acid using chain extender and anti‐hydrolysis agent
Authors: Sun Xiaojie , Chen Lanlan , Wang Rong , Jiang Meng , Sun Miaomiao , Liang Wenbin
Published: March 2022

Biodegradable polyglycolic acid (PGA) shows great potential to substitute engineering petrochemical‐based polymers because of its high mechanical strength, stiffness, and gas barrier. However, drawbacks such as low melt strength, poor thermal stability, and rapid degradation limited its practical applications. In this paper, PGA was modified by reactive extrusion using chain extender (CE) and anti‐hydrolysis agent (AHA). The effects of the modification on the flow properties, melt viscosity and long‐term hydrolysis behaviors of PGA were studied. Compared with the unmodified but one‐pass processed PGA (C‐PGA), the melt mass flow rate of modified PGA (M‐PGA) decreased, while the complex viscosity (ω = 0.1 rad/s) dramatically increased, attributable to the realization of effective chain extension. The accelerated hydrolysis aging test indicated that the hydrolysis rate constant of C‐PGA at 30°C was 0.06183 day−1, and that of M‐PGA was 0.01332 day−1, which exhibited a 78% reduction. Correspondingly, the service life of M‐PGA was significantly prolonged. This may expand the potential applications of PGA, such as packaging film, agriculture, or textiles.
Ranking customers for marketing actions with a two‐stage Bayesian cluster and Pareto/NBD models
Authors: Puig‐de‐Dou Ignasi , González Ibáñez Daniel , Puig Xavier
Published: March 2022

Modelling customer behaviour to predict their future purchase frequency and value is crucial when selecting customers for marketing activities. The profitability of a customer and their risk of inactivity are two important factors in this selection process. These indicators can be obtained using the well‐known Pareto/NBD model. Here we cluster customers based on their purchase frequency and value over a given period before applying the Pareto/NBD model to each cluster. This initial cluster model provides the customer purchase value and improves the predictive accuracy of the Pareto/NBD parameters by using similar individuals when fitting the data. Finally, taking the outputs from both models, the initial cluster and Pareto/NBD, we present some recommendations to classify customers into interpretable groups and facilitate their prioritisation for marketing activities. To illustrate the methodology, this paper uses a database with sales from a beauty products wholesaler.
Stem cell‐based region‐specific brain organoids: Novel models to understand neurodevelopmental defects
Authors: Shafique Sidra
Published: March 2022

The study of human brain development and neurodevelopmental defects has remained challenging so far due to unique, specific, and complex underlying processes. Recent advances in the technologies and protocols of in vitro human brain organoid development have led to immense possibilities of understanding these processes. Human brain organoids are stem‐cell derived three‐dimensional in vitro tissues that resemble the developing fetal brain. Major advances in stem cell techniques pioneering the development of in vitro human brain development include reprogramming human somatic cells into induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs) followed by the targeted differentiation of iPSCs into the cells of three embryonic germ cell layers. The neural progenitor cells produced by the directed differentiation of iPSCs undergo some level of self‐organization to generate in vitro human brain like tissue. A three‐dimensional differentiation approach applied to create region‐specific brain organoids has successfully led to develop highly specialized cortical, forebrain, pallium, and subpallium in vitro human brain organoid models. These stem cell‐based brain organoids are novel models to study human brain development, neurodevelopmental defects, chemical toxicity testing, and drug repurposing screening. This review focuses on the fundamentals of brain organoid development and applications. The novel applications of using cortical organoids in understanding the mechanisms of Zika virus‐induced microcephaly, congenital microcephaly, and lissencephaly are also discussed.
A ratiometric and two‐photon fluorescent probe for imaging hydrogen peroxide in living cells
Authors: Wang Shuoshuo , Yao Jipeng , Wang Bei , Liu Xiang
Published: March 2022

As an important reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide plays a significant role in the life activity system, and its abnormal levels are closely related to many diseases. Developing effective fluorescent probes for detecting hydrogen peroxide is very urgent. Therefore, we constructed a probe Z that can detect hydrogen peroxide in ratio. It has naphthimide as the fluorophore and phenylboronic acid pinacol esters as the recognition group. It shows higher sensitivity, lower detection limit, higher selectivity, and broad pH applicability. Moreover, probe Z has low cytotoxicity that can be used to detect exogenous hydrogen peroxide in HeLa cells and might be a potential tool for studying hydrogen peroxide in physiological activities.
Simplifying plant gene silencing and genome editing logistics by a one‐Agrobacterium system for simultaneous delivery of multipartite virus vectors
Authors: Aragonés Verónica , Aliaga Flavio , Pasin Fabio , Daròs José‐Antonio
Published: March 2022

Viral vectors provide a quick and effective way to express exogenous sequences in eukaryotic cells and to engineer eukaryotic genomes through the delivery of CRISPR/Cas components. Here, we present JoinTRV, an improved vector system based on tobacco rattle virus (TRV) that simplifies gene silencing and genome editing logistics. Our system consists of two mini T‐DNA vectors from which TRV RNA1 (pLX‐TRV1) and an engineered version of TRV RNA2 (pLX‐TRV2) are expressed. The two vectors have compatible origins that allow their cotransformation and maintenance into a single Agrobacterium cell, as well as their simultaneous delivery to plants by a one‐Agrobacterium/two‐vector approach. The JoinTRV vectors are substantially smaller than those of any known TRV vector system, and pLX‐TRV2 can be easily customized to express desired sequences by one‐step digestion‐ligation and homology‐based cloning. The system was successfully used in Nicotiana benthamiana for launching TRV infection, for recombinant protein production, as well as for robust virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) of endogenous transcripts using bacterial suspensions at low optical densities. JoinTRV‐mediated delivery of single‐guide RNAs in a Cas9 transgenic host allowed somatic cell editing efficiencies of ≈90%; editing events were heritable and >50% of the progeny seedlings showed mutations at the targeted loci.
Dopaminergic signaling regulates zebrafish larvae's response to electricity
Authors: Khalili Arezoo , Wijngaarden Ellen van , Zoidl Georg R. , Rezai Pouya
Published: March 2022

Electrical stimulation of brain or muscle activities has gained attention for studying the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in electric‐induced responses. We recently showed zebrafish's response to electricity. Here, we hypothesized that this response is affected by the dopaminergic signaling pathways. The effects of multiple dopamine agonists and antagonists on the electric response of 6 days‐postfertilization zebrafish larvae were investigated using a microfluidic device with enhanced control of experimentation and throughput. All dopamine antagonists decreased locomotor activities, while dopamine agonists did not induce similar behaviors. The D2‐selective dopamine agonist quinpirole enhanced the movement. Exposure to nonselective and D1‐selective dopamine agonists apomorphine and SKF‐81297 caused no significant change in the electric response. Exposing larvae that were pretreated with nonselective and D2‐selective dopamine antagonists butaclamol and haloperidol to apomorphine and quinpirole, respectively, restored the electric locomotion. These results reveal a correlation between electric response and dopamine signaling pathway. Furthermore, they demonstrate that electric‐induced zebrafish larvae locomotion can be conditioned by modulating dopamine receptor functions. Our electrofluidic assay has profound application potential for fundamental electric‐induced response research and brain disorder studies especially those related to the dopamine imbalance and as a chemical screening method when investigating biological pathways and behaviors.
Progenitor cells derived from gene‐engineered human induced pluripotent stem cells as synthetic cancer cell alternatives for in vitro pharmacology
Authors: Uhlmann Constanze , Nickel Ann‐Christin , Picard Daniel , Rossi Andrea , Li Guanzhang , Hildebrandt Barbara , Brockerhoff Gabriele , Bendt Farina , Hübenthal Ulrike , Hewera Michael , Steiger Hans‐Jakob , Wieczorek Dagmar , Perrakis Aristoteles , Zhang Wei , Remke Marc , Koch Katharina , Tigges Julia , Croner Roland S. , Fritsche Ellen , Kahlert Ulf D.
Published: March 2022

Limitations in genetic stability and recapitulating accurate physiological disease properties challenge the utility of patient‐derived (PD) cancer models for reproducible and translational research. A portfolio of isogenic human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) with different pan‐cancer relevant oncoprotein signatures followed by differentiation into lineage‐committed progenitor cells was genetically engineered. Characterization on molecular and biological level validated successful stable genetic alterations in pluripotency state as well as upon differentiation to prove the functionality of our approach. Meanwhile proposing core molecular networks possibly involved in early dysregulation of stem cell homeostasis, the application of our cell systems in comparative substance testing indicates the potential for cancer research such as identification of augmented therapy resistance of stem cells in response to activation of distinct oncogenic signatures.
The impact of knowledge on labeling schemes promoting sustainable investing
Authors: Carlsson Hauff Jeanette
Published: March 2022

Sustainable labeling schemes are frequently used to simplify decisions for consumers, for example, in financial contexts, and to subsequently promote sustainable investments. The purpose of this research is to, against the backdrop of dual processing theories, outline consumer reactions to sustainability‐oriented investment labels. Experimental results from a representative sample show that objective labels are perceived more favorably by financially knowledgeable individuals. Three developed and validated scales, measuring general and specific financial knowledge as well as environmental knowledge, further suggest that this evaluation is domain contingent, with only knowledge that aligns with choice domain interacting significantly with label format. The importance of the choice domain prevails with regard to the interaction between knowledge and the perceived effectiveness of an investment. We are able to verify retail investor reactions to sustainable labeling, which are of major importance for fund both companies and legislators considering an introduction of mandatory sustainability labeling.
Non‐Isothermal Thermogravimetric Analysis Study on the Pyrolysis Reaction Kinetics of Bituminous Coal
Authors: Wang Houwang , Du Wenzhou , Xi Ya , Zhang Yansong , Wang Bowen , Sun Yingjun
Published: March 2022

A kinetic analysis of the pyrolysis of bituminous coal is performed. The coal sample is pyrolyzed with a thermogravimetric analyzer, and the pyrolysis process at different heating rates is investigated. As the heating rate increases, the initial pyrolysis temperature and the peak temperature of the maximum weight loss rate tend to migrate to higher temperatures. The activation energy and pre‐exponential factor are calculated by a single first‐order reaction model using the Doyle integral method. The activation energies are estimated depending on the conversion rate. Furthermore, higher heating rates can lead to larger activation energy values in the initial pyrolysis stage.
A Nonaqueous Redox‐Matched Flow Battery with Charge Storage in Insoluble Polymer Beads**
Authors: Kim Dukhan , Sanford Melanie S. , Vaid Thomas P. , McNeil Anne J.
Published: March 2022

We describe the nonaqueous redox‐matched flow battery (RMFB), where charge is stored on redox‐active moieties covalently tethered to non‐circulating, insoluble polymer beads and charge is transferred between the electrodes and the beads via soluble mediators with redox potentials matched to the active moieties on the beads. The RMFB reported herein uses ferrocene and viologen derivatives bound to crosslinked polystyrene beads. Charge storage in the beads leads to a high (approximately 1.0–1.7 M) effective concentration of active material in the reservoirs while preventing crossover of that material. The relatively low concentration of soluble mediators (15 mM) eliminates the need for high‐solubility molecules to create high energy density batteries. Nernstian redox exchange between the beads and redox‐matched mediators was fast relative to the cycle time of the RMFB. This approach is generalizable to many different redox‐active moieties via attachment to the versatile Merrifield resin.
Sterically Frustrated Aromatic Enes with Various Colors Originating from Multiple Folded and Twisted Conformations in Crystal Polymorphs**
Authors: Nishiuchi Tomohiko , Aibara Seito , Yamakado Takuya , Kimura Ryo , Saito Shohei , Sato Hiroyasu , Kubo Takashi
Published: March 2022

Overcrowded ethylenes composed of 10‐methyleneanthrone and two bulky aromatic rings contain a twisted carbon–carbon double (C=C) bond as well as a folded anthrone unit. As such, they are unique frustrated aromatic enes (FAEs). Various colored crystals of these FAEs, obtained in different solvents, correspond to multiple metastable conformations of the FAEs with various twist and fold angles of the C=C bond, as well as various dihedral angles of attached aryl units with respect to the C=C bond. The relationships between color and these parameters associated with conformational features around the C=C bond were elucidated in experimental and computational studies. Owing to the fact that they are separated by small energy barriers, the variously colored conformations in the FAE crystal change in response to various external stimuli, such as mechanical grinding, hydrostatic pressure and thermal heating.
Aggregation‐Induced Dual Phosphorescence from (o‐Bromophenyl)‐Bis(2,6‐Dimethylphenyl)Borane at Room Temperature
Authors: Wu Zhu , Dinkelbach Fabian , Kerner Florian , Friedrich Alexandra , Ji Lei , Stepanenko Vladimir , Würthner Frank , Marian Christel M. , Marder Todd B.
Published: March 2022

Designing highly efficient purely organic phosphors at room temperature remains a challenge because of fast non‐radiative processes and slow intersystem crossing (ISC) rates. The majority of them emit only single component phosphorescence. Herein, we have prepared 3 isomers (o, m, p‐bromophenyl)‐bis(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)boranes. Among the 3 isomers (o‐, m‐ and p‐BrTAB) synthesized, the ortho‐one is the only one which shows dual phosphorescence, with a short lifetime of 0.8 ms and a long lifetime of 234 ms in the crystalline state at room temperature. Based on theoretical calculations and crystal structure analysis of o‐BrTAB, the short lifetime component is ascribed to the T1M state of the monomer which emits the higher energy phosphorescence. The long‐lived, lower energy phosphorescence emission is attributed to the T1A state of an aggregate, with multiple intermolecular interactions existing in crystalline o‐BrTAB inhibiting nonradiative decay and stabilizing the triplet states efficiently.
Multi‐stimuli‐responsive and Multi‐functional Smart Windows
Authors: Hwang Young Ji , Pyun Seung Beom , Choi Min Ju , Kim Jeong Han , Cho Eun Chul
Published: March 2022

Smart windows can change their optical characteristics according to environmental conditions or external stimuli (such as heat and electricity). They are manufactured by considering building characteristics, regional climate, energy policies, and indoor air conditions. Their key optical properties have been improved by developing novel materials, fabrication methods, and designs. The optical properties can be further improved by developing multi‐stimuli‐responsive smart window systems. Recently, some smart windows have been integrated with energy storage, solar energy harvesting, self‐cleaning, and air‐purifying functions. The energy consumed by buildings and houses accounts for a considerable portion of the total energy consumed by a country as well as the world; therefore, these state‐of‐the‐art smart windows will greatly contribute to saving energy. Moreover, some multi‐functional smart windows can help in addressing environmental challenges. This mini‐review particularly focuses on discussing the recent advances made in multi‐stimuli‐responsive and multi‐functional smart windows, in addition to summarizing the researches on electrochromic, thermochromic, and other types of smart windows.
Supramolecular Hydrogels Based on Cyclodextrins: Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Jain Mehak , Nowak Benedikt P. , Ravoo Bart Jan
Published: March 2022

Hydrogels have emerged as one of the best studied, widely applied and most versatile classes of soft materials. Hydrogels are important biomimetic nanomaterials comparable to extracellular matrices in terms of water content, porosity, and rigidity. In this regard, self‐assembled hydrogels based on supramolecular host‐guest interactions have enabled unique characteristics like stimuli response, self‐healing, shape memory and self‐regulation. In particular, the use of cyclodextrins and their host‐guest chemistry is a powerful tool for the development of functional hydrogels with unprecedented properties. In this article, recent advances on hydrogels based on supramolecular chemistry of cyclodextrins are reviewed to provide an overview of the manifold design strategies, material properties and areas of application. We contrast the progress on cyclodextrin containing polymer gels to that of their low molecular weight counterparts by highlighting selected publications from each of these subcategories.
Support vector machine versus convolutional neural network for hyperspectral image classification: A systematic review
Authors: Kaul Ajay , Raina Sneha
Published: March 2022

Various machine learning and deep learning techniques have been proposed for classification purposes in the case of hyperspectral imaging. Among all the machine learning techniques support vector machine (SVM) has been a promising classification algorithm in the case of remote sensing applications, particularly in the field of hyperspectral imaging. In the case of deep learning techniques, the convolutional neural network is gaining much attention from researchers for classification purposes and has given reliable results in this field, thus is being used widely by researchers. So, in this article, a systematic review about the two most used hyperspectral classification techniques that is, SVM and CNN is given. A total of 86 papers from the four well‐known journals belonging to the field of remote sensing have been reviewed where the methodologies used by different authors, datasets used, results acquired, contribution and shortcomings have been put forth. This meta‐analysis generally focuses on the recent SVM and CNN methodologies that are proposed by various authors. A summary of the best results obtained from SVM and CNN in terms of classification accuracies is also provided to help the researchers working in this area achieve better results.
Juvenile Gouldian finches (Erythrura gouldiae) form sibling subgroups during social integration
Authors: Kohn Gregory M. , Nugent M. Ryan , Dail Xzavier
Published: March 2022

The formation of social relationships in complex groups is critical in shaping patterns of social organization and behavioral development. In many birds, young individuals remain dependent on their parents for extended periods but must abruptly transition to navigating interactions in the wider group after independence. While lack of social relationships during this period is detrimental in the development of later social skills, little is known about the social relationships juveniles form after independence in many bird species. In this study, we describe patterns of social interactions in juvenile Gouldian finches (Erythrura gouldiae) during transitions from family groups into flocks of unfamiliar individuals. Twenty juveniles from four families were introduced into two flocks. After introductions, juveniles showed a gradient of approach rates with most approaches directed toward siblings, followed by juvenile peers, adult females, and lastly adult males. Significant preferences for siblings resulted in the emergence of sibling subgroups within the larger social network. This intentional self‐assortment of siblings suggests that sibling subgroups are an important bridge linking social connections within the family and the wider group. Such findings suggests that sibling relationships have a critical role in the socialization after independence, as well as structuring the social organization of Gouldian finch flocks.
Quantitative determination and metabolic profiling of synthetic cathinone eutylone in vitro and in urine samples by liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Yeh Ya‐Ling , Wang Sheng‐Meng
Published: March 2022

In Taiwan, synthetic cathinones are the most prevalent new psychoactive substances, and their use is growing continuously. Urine samples are currently analysed to determine drug abuse, but the metabolic profiles and metabolites of these compounds are not widely reported. Given that cases of eutylone abuse have been growing since 2020, this study established a method employing supported liquid extraction combined with liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry to identify and quantify eutylone and its metabolites in urine samples. Method validation was performed, and eight authentic samples were analysed. Moreover, in vitro metabolism experiments were conducted, and metabolites were generated by incubating eutylone with human liver microsomes and cytosol. Metabolite characterisation was achieved by confirming the accurate mass and product ions in full MS/MS spectra. Five metabolites were identified in in vitro experiments; they resulted from eutylone N‐dealkylation, β‐ketone reduction, demethylenation, aliphatic hydroxylation and sequential demethylenation and O‐methylation. The metabolic profile was obtained evaluating the metabolites at different incubation times: Demethylenation occurred first, followed by N‐dealkylation, β‐ketone reduction and aliphatic hydroxylation. Three additional metabolites were identified in authentic samples. Based on in vitro and in vivo evidence, we propose that the demethylenation and O‐methylation metabolite, the β‐ketone reduction metabolite, and the β‐ketone reduction, demethylenation and O‐methylation metabolite are the most appropriate biomarkers of eutylone consumption. Using these markers can help expand the eutylone detection window and provide information for toxicology research.
Tree growth response to drought partially explains regional‐scale growth and mortality patterns in Iberian forests
Authors: Gazol Antonio , Camarero J. Julio , Sánchez‐Salguero Raúl , Zavala Miguel A. , Serra‐Maluquer Xavier , Gutiérrez Emilia , de Luis Martín , Sangüesa‐Barreda Gabriel , Novak Klemen , Rozas Vicente , Tíscar Pedro A. , Linares Juan C. , Martínez del Castillo Edurne , Ribas Montse , García‐González Ignacio , Silla Fernando , Camison Álvaro , Génova Mar , Olano José M. , Hereş Ana‐Maria , Yuste Jorge Curiel , Longares Luis A. , Hevia Andrea , Galván J. Diego , Ruiz‐Benito Paloma
Published: March 2022

Tree‐ring data has been widely used to inform about tree growth responses to drought at the individual scale, but less is known about how tree growth sensitivity to drought scales up driving changes in forest dynamics. Here, we related tree‐ring growth chronologies and stand‐level forest changes in basal area from two independent data sets to test if tree‐ring responses to drought match stand forest dynamics (stand basal area growth, ingrowth, and mortality). We assessed if tree growth and changes in forest basal area covary as a function of spatial scale and tree taxa (gymnosperm or angiosperm). To this end, we compared a tree‐ring network with stand data from the Spanish National Forest Inventory. We focused on the cumulative impact of drought on tree growth and demography in the period 1981–2005. Drought years were identified by the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index, and their impacts on tree growth by quantifying tree‐ring width reductions. We hypothesized that forests with greater drought impacts on tree growth will also show reduced stand basal area growth and ingrowth and enhanced mortality. This is expected to occur in forests dominated by gymnosperms on drought‐prone regions. Cumulative growth reductions during dry years were higher in forests dominated by gymnosperms and presented a greater magnitude and spatial autocorrelation than for angiosperms. Cumulative drought‐induced tree growth reductions and changes in forest basal area were related, but initial stand density and basal area were the main factors driving changes in basal area. In drought‐prone gymnosperm forests, we observed that sites with greater growth reductions had lower stand basal area growth and greater mortality. Consequently, stand basal area, forest growth, and ingrowth in regions with large drought impacts was significantly lower than in regions less impacted by drought. Tree growth sensitivity to drought can be used as a predictor of gymnosperm demographic rates in terms of stand basal area growth and ingrowth at regional scales, but further studies may try to disentangle how initial stand density modulates such relationships. Drought‐induced growth reductions and their cumulative impacts have strong potential to be used as early‐warning indicators of regional forest vulnerability.
Alternative state transition control by regulating the spatial arrangement of organisms using a lattice model
Authors: Takizawa Shuuki , Nishida Akifumi , Yamamura Masayuki
Published: March 2022

Ecological systems can exist under multiple stable states for a specific set of environmental conditions. Perturbations can shift ecosystems to alternative stable states, and these changes are difficult to reverse. This is a concept known as hysteresis. Current management methods for system recovery require considerable effort. A model for system recovery that requires small changes in a target community would be of high value for ecosystem restoration. In this study, we focused on rocky reefs that exhibit two alternative stable states: one dominated by macroalgae and another dominated by sea urchins and crustose coralline algae. Community recovery requires a state shift. To better understand the state shift, we simulated the ecosystem using a lattice model incorporating local interactions, rather than equations representing homogenized spaces. Using spatial information and simulating conditions in the target ecosystem, we concluded that a shift to an alternative stable state is possible by adjusting the spatial arrangement of the organisms. These results indicate that spatial arrangements are significant in systems exhibiting hysteresis and that the spatial manipulation of organisms may be useful for ecosystem management and restoration.
No Allee effect detected during the natural recolonization by a large carnivore despite low growth rate
Authors: Andrén Henrik , Hemmingmoore Heather , Aronsson Malin , Åkesson Mikael , Persson Jens
Published: March 2022

Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) have recently naturally recolonized southern Sweden. The first documented reproduction of lynx in recent times occurred in 2003, and the population increased from 2 to 48 family groups (the unit of measurement in Swedish monitoring) during its first 18 years (2003/2004–2020/2021). We did not detect any Allee effect, that is, lower growth rate at low population density, during the recolonization of southern Sweden, although our population simulations revealed a non‐negligible (30%) chance that population observed development could include an Allee effect. The probable absence of an Allee effect was likely because colonizing females did not lack mating partners, as a larger number of wide‐ranging males were established in the area before documented reproduction took place. Despite the absence of an Allee effect, the growth rate during recolonization was lower in southern Sweden (λ = 1.20) than in central Sweden (λ = 1.29). We have no evidence of higher mortality, including that from poaching, or lower reproduction in southern Sweden could explain the lower growth rate. Instead, we suggest that the lower growth rate during the recolonization of southern Sweden was explained by fewer immigrants arriving from central Sweden due to areas of less suitable habitat between central and southern Sweden, partially preventing immigration southward. From a conservation point of view, it is positive that this small population could recover without being negatively influenced by an Allee effect, as small populations with an Allee effect experience lower viability than those without.
The TLR‐chaperone CNPY3 is a critical regulator of NLRP3‐inflammasome activation
Authors: Ghait Mohamed , Husain Ralf A. , Duduskar Shivalee N. , Haack Tobias B. , Rooney Michael , Göhrig Bianca , Bauer Michael , Rubio Ignacio , Deshmukh Sachin D.
Published: March 2022

TLRs mediate the recognition of microbial and endogenous insults to orchestrate the inflammatory response. TLRs localize to the plasma membrane or endomembranes, depending on the member, and rely critically on ER‐resident chaperones to mature and reach their subcellular destinations. The chaperone canopy FGF signaling regulator 3 (CNPY3) is necessary for the proper trafficking of multiple TLRs including TLR1/2/4/5/9 but not TLR3. However, the exact role of CNPY3 in inflammatory signalling downstream of TLRs has not been studied in detail. Consistent with the reported client specificity, we report here that functional loss of CNPY3 in engineered macrophages impairs downstream signalling by TLR2 but not TLR3. Unexpectedly, CNPY3‐deficient macrophages show reduced IL‐1ß and IL‐18 processing and production independent of the challenged upstream TLR species, demonstrating a separate, specific role for CNPY3 in inflammasome activation. Mechanistically, we document that CNPY3 regulates caspase‐1 localization to the apoptosis speck and autoactivation of caspase‐1. Importantly, we were able to recapitulate these findings in macrophages from an early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE) patient with a novel CNPY3 loss‐of‐function variant. Summarizing, our findings reveal a hitherto unknown, TLR‐independent role of CNPY3 in inflammasome activation, highlighting a more complex and dedicated role of CNPY3 to the inflammatory response than anticipated.
Coupling relationship between reservoir densification and hydrocarbon emplacement in the Jurassic Badaowan Formation sandstone reservoirs of the southern Junggar Basin, China
Authors: Zhou Tianqi , Wu Chaodong , Guan Xutong , Wang Jialin , Jiao Yue
Published: March 2022

Understanding the interrelationship between diagenesis and hydrocarbon emplacement is crucially important for investigating tight sandstone reservoir‐forming processes. In this paper, efforts were made to elucidate this interrelationship in the Jurassic Badaowan Formation tight sandstone reservoirs of the southern margin of the Junggar Basin (SJB), China. Four lithofacies were clarified, including quartz cemented‐dissolution facies (QCDF), carbonate cemented facies (CCF), authigenic clay mineral facies (ACMF), and matrix‐caused tightly compacted facies (MCTF). Weak hydrocarbon migration forces and poor hydrocarbon preservation conditions were identified to be the main reasons for the limited hydrocarbon accumulation scale. The reservoir densification process, mostly before 100 Ma, was associated with four aspects, including the high matrix content, the intensive carbonate cementation, the limited dissolution and alteration, and the development of authigenic clay minerals. Hydrocarbons in the Badaowan Formation reservoir were demonstrated to be emplaced after reservoir densification. Overpressure resulting from hydrocarbon expulsion and tectonic compression should have acted as the main driver for hydrocarbon migration. Particularly, the tight sandstone in the Qigu anticline was charged with overpressurized hydrocarbons sourced from the middle‐lower Jurassic source rocks at the footwall of the Qigu north fault since the early Jurassic. The tectonic compression in the late Neogene eroded the core of the Qigu anticline, which destroyed the initially large palaeo‐oil reservoir into smaller ones. The first‐stage hydrocarbon emplacement greatly affected the diagenesis and physical properties of the reservoir. It played an important role in inhibiting cementation, promoting dissolution, and altering the petrophysical properties of the tight sandstone reservoir. The densification process controlled the wettability and capillary pressure of pores in the tight sandstone. Specifically, the high kaolinite cement raised the hydrophilia, while the ubiquitous densification increased the capillary pressure of pores.
Club convergence and factors of income inequality in theEuropean Union
Authors: Suárez‐Arbesú Claudia , Apergis Nicholas , Delgado Francisco J.
Published: March 2022

The measurement of inequality and its determinants are major tasks within the economic literature. The main objectives of this paper are to identify patterns of convergence in the income inequality in European Union countries and to investigate the factors behind the formation of convergence clubs. For those purposes and considering the Gini index during the period 2007–2018, the club convergence approach and an ordered logit model are employed. The results show four clubs and four divergent countries. In addition, the analysis identifies certain factors, such as economic openness, public intervention and education, as the main drivers of inequality reduction. Finally, the results from the club convergence analysis for an alternative inequality measure, specifically the ratio 80:20, are similar to those achieved in the case of the Gini index.
A combination of circulating tumor cells and CA199 improves the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Chen Junliang , Wang Huaitao , Zhou Lei , Liu Zhihao , Tan Xiaodong
Published: March 2022

Background

Early diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is difficult due to the lack of effective screening tests. CA199, the standard biomarker for PDAC management, is not sufficiently reliable for early diagnosis. This prospective study aimed to evaluate whether circulating tumor cells (CTCs) could complement or perform better than CA199 in determining PDAC.

Methods

A total of 168 blood samples were collected from 80 patients with PDAC, 32 patients with acute pancreatitis, 22 patients with benign pancreatic masses, and 34 healthy donors. CTCs were detected by a novel system combining negative enrichment with immunostaining and fluorescence in situ hybridization (NE‐imFISH). Next, ROC curves and AUC analyses were conducted to assess diagnostic abilities of CA199, CTCs, and the combination of the two biomarkers in PDAC.

Results

CTCs were stained as CD45–/DAPI+/CEP8 ≥3. With 2 CTCs/3.2 ml as the cut‐off value, the sensitivity/specificity of the CTC number was 0.76/0.94, which was comparable to that of CA199 (0.78/0.83; Delong test p = 0.3360). Improved performance was achieved through a logistic regression model integrating CA199 and CTC number (AUCCTC+CA199 = 0.95, AUCCA199 = 0.80, AUCCTC number = 0.85; Delong test p
vs. CA199 < 0.0001 and p
vs. CTC number = 0.0002). CTC subtype was inferior to CTC number as a diagnostic marker (AUCCTC subtype = 0.73; Delong test p
vs. CTC number < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The dual‐marker panel consisting of CA199 and CTC number can significantly improve upon the diagnostic performance of CA199 alone, highlighting the promising clinical utilization as an effective strategy for PDAC surveillance.
Critical adult education and community organizing: The case of diverse communities in Israel
Authors: Postan‐Aizik Dassi
Published: March 2022

Community organizing is an effective approach to face social, economic, and racial injustice at the local level. However, since the 1970s, neoliberal policies, growing social divisions, and political disengagement have challenged community organizing. This study explores the use of critical adult education to address local organizing challenges with diverse and socially excluded communities in Israel. Building on a case of a local partnership to promote inclusive urban development, we analyzed data from interviews, focus groups, and participant observations conducted with activists and paid professionals. The findings suggest that critical education was instrumental in organizing across diversities through three processes: transposing knowledge, disrupting power hierarchies, and negotiating diversity. Critical education was perceived as empowering for activists at the individual‐family level and promote change at the local level. However, at the national policy level, limited changes were achieved. The advantages and limitations of critical education for local organizing are discussed.
Haematological malignancies in relatives of patients affected with myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Vanni Daniele , Borsani Oscar , Nannya Yasuhito , Sant'Antonio Emanuela , Trotti Chiara , Casetti Ilaria Carola , Pietra Daniela , Gallì Anna , Zibellini Silvia , Ferretti Virginia Valeria , Malcovati Luca , Ogawa Seishi , Arcaini Luca , Rumi Elisa
Published: March 2022

In a cohort of 3131 patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), we identified 200 patients (6.4%) who reported a second case of haematological malignancies (HM) in first‐ or second‐degree relatives. The occurrence of a second HM in the family was not influenced by MPN subtype, sex or driver mutation, while it was associated with age at MPN diagnosis: 8.5% of patients diagnosed with MPN younger than 45 years had a second relative affected with HM compared to 5.5% of those diagnosed at the age of 45 years or older (p = 0.003), thus suggesting a genetic predisposition to HM with early onset.
Potential for supraphysiologic fluid shear stresses in a rat cemented knee replacement model
Authors: Miller Mark A. , Hardy William R. , Oest Megan E. , Mann Kenneth A.
Published: March 2022

The mechano‐biologic environment associated with aseptic loosening of cemented joint replacements is not fully understood. The goal of this study was to use a preclinical rat knee arthroplasty model to explore the changes in cement−bone morphology and micromotion that occur with in vivo service. Narrow gaps between cement and bone under the tibial tray were present at early time points, and with even small magnitude micromotion, resulted in large micromotion‐to‐gap width ratios. These data were then used to develop models of fluid flow in the cement−bone gaps to estimate potential for high fluid shear stress (FSS). Modeling results revealed supraphysiologic (>4 Pa) FSS were possible, particularly for cases in which eccentric loading applied to the implant and if the fluid in the gap consisted of marrow or synovial fluid. The early, high FSS environment, could cause fluid‐induced periprosthetic osteolysis locally, resulting in progressive loss of cement−bone fixation.
Variation in pH gradients and FLO11 expression in mat biofilms from environmental isolates of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Forehand Amy L. , Myagmarsuren Dulguun , Chen Ziyan , Murphy Helen A.
Published: March 2022

Saccharomyces cerevisiae produces a multicellular phenotype, known as a mat, on a semi‐solid medium. This biofilm phenotype was first described in the lab strain Σ1278b and has been analyzed mostly in this same background. Yeast cells form a mat by spreading across the medium and adhering to each other and the surface, in part through the variegated expression of the cell adhesion, FLO11. This process creates a characteristic floral pattern and generates pH and glucose gradients outward from the center of the mat. Mats are encapsulated in a liquid which may aid in surface spreading and diffusion. Here, we examine thirteen environmental isolates that vary visually in the phenotype. We predicted that mat properties were universal and increased morphological complexity would be associated with more extreme trait values. Our results showed that pH varied significantly among strains, but was not correlated to mat complexity. Only two isolates generated significant liquid boundaries and neither produced visually complex mats. In five isolates, we tracked the initiation of FLO11 using green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the endogenous promoter. Strains varied in when and how much GFP was detected, with increased signal associated with increased morphological complexity. Generally, the signal was strongest in the center of the mat and absent at the expanding edge. Our results show that traits discovered in one background vary and exist independently of mat complexity in natural isolates. The environment may favor different sets of traits, which could have implications for how this yeast adapts to its many ecological niches.
Momentum building among lawmakers and field as 988 crisis system approaches
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2022

In less than four months, the new national three‐digit suicide prevention and mental health crisis lifeline becomes operational. States are still working toward accessing funding and building an infrastructure to support the crisis system and crisis care coordination. Legislation is pending in many states to address fees and surcharges in preparation for July 16 when 988 goes live.
Illinois governor announces initiative to transform children's services
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: March 2022

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has announced the launch of a redesign of children's behavioral health services that promises better care coordination for children and greater transparency for parents. A blueprint for the Children's Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative is expected to be released before the end of this year.
Pregnant women on SSRIs continue to exhibit MH symptoms
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2022

Although pregnant and postpartum women experiencing depression are being treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, many may continue to experience depression and anxiety, according to researchers of a study published this month in Psychiatric Research & Clinical Practice.
Desulfovibrio vulgaris as a model microbe for the study of corrosion under sulfate‐reducing conditions
Authors: Ueki Toshiyuki , Lovley Derek R.
Published: March 2022

Corrosion of iron‐containing metals under sulfate‐reducing conditions is an economically important problem. Microbial strains now known as Desulfovibrio vulgaris served as the model microbes in many of the foundational studies that developed existing models for the corrosion of iron‐containing metals under sulfate‐reducing conditions. Proposed mechanisms for corrosion by D. vulgaris include: (1) H2 consumption to accelerate the oxidation of Fe0 coupled to the reduction of protons to H2; (2) production of sulfide that combines with ferrous iron to form iron sulfide coatings that promote H2 production; (3) moribund cells release hydrogenases that catalyze Fe0 oxidation with the production of H2; (4) direct electron transfer from Fe0 to cells; and (5) flavins serving as an electron shuttle for electron transfer between Fe0 and cells. The demonstrated possibility of conducting transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of cells growing on metal surfaces suggests that similar studies on D. vulgaris corrosion biofilms can aid in identifying proteins that play an important role in corrosion. Tools for making targeted gene deletions in D. vulgaris are available for functional genetic studies. These approaches, coupled with instrumentation for the detection of low concentrations of H2, and proven techniques for evaluating putative electron shuttle function, are expected to make it possible to determine which of the proposed mechanisms for D. vulgaris corrosion are most important.
Dietary Flavonoids and Human Cognition: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Cheng Nancy , Bell Lynne , Lamport Daniel J. , Williams Claire M.
Published: March 2022

Improving cognition is important in all age groups, from performance in school examinations to prevention of cognitive decline in later life. Dietary polyphenols, in particular flavonoids, have been examined for their benefits to cognitive outcomes. This meta‐analysis evaluates the effects of dietary flavonoids on cognition across the lifespan. In January 2020 databases were searched for randomized controlled trials investigating flavonoid effects on human cognition. Eighty studies, comprising 5519 participants, were included in the final meta‐analysis. The global analysis indicates dietary flavonoids induced significant benefit to cognitive performance (g = 0.148, p < 0.001), with subgroup analyses revealing that cocoa (g = 0.224, p = 0.036), ginkgo (g = 0.187, p ≤ 0.001), and berries (g = 0.149, p = 0.009) yielded the most notable improvements. Significant benefits were observed from chronic studies, in middle‐aged and older adults, and with low and medium doses. The domains of long‐term memory, processing speed, and mood showed sensitivity to flavonoid intervention. This meta‐analysis provides evidence for the positive effects of flavonoids on cognition and highlights several moderating factors. Flavonoid‐based dietary interventions therefore potentially offer a highly accessible, safe, and cost‐effective treatment to help tackle the burden of cognitive decline.
Incidence of genitourinary injuries in pelvic fractures: A 12‐year single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Kaneko Tomoyuki , Yanagida Kazuki , Matsui Kentaro , Kimura Masaki , Kawai Taketo , Yamada Yukio , Ishii Keisuke , Kurozumi Taketo , Suzuki Takashi , Watanabe Yoshinobu , Kawano Hirotaka , Sakamoto Tetsuya , Nakagawa Tohru
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine the epidemiology of genitourinary injuries in pelvic fractures and elucidate the clinical outcomes of patients with pelvic fractures with and without genitourinary injuries at a tertiary trauma center in Japan.

Methods

Patients with pelvic fractures in our tertiary trauma center between May 2009 and April 2021 were retrospectively assessed. The patients' demographics, mechanism of injury, and hospital course details were collected. The outcomes of patients with pelvic fractures with and without genitourinary injuries were compared.

Results

Of 402 patients with pelvic fractures, 18 (4.5%) had genitourinary injuries. Falls were the most common mechanisms of injury for all pelvic fractures The incidence of bladder, kidney, urethral, and testis injuries were 2.0%, 1.2%, 1.2%, and 0.5%, respectively. Patients with genitourinary injuries were significantly younger (median age, 26 vs. 51 years; p < 0.001), had a higher rate of intensive care unit admission (94% vs. 58%; p = 0.002), remained hospitalized longer (median duration, 82 vs. 45 days; p < 0.001), and had a longer intensive care unit stay (median duration, 6 vs. 2 days; p < 0.001) when compared to patients without genitourinary injuries. Genitourinary injuries were not associated with in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusions

The incidence of genitourinary injuries with pelvic fractures was 4.5%. The presence of genitourinary injuries was associated with a higher rate of intensive care unit admission, longer hospital stay, and longer intensive care unit stay, but it was not associated with in‐hospital mortality.