bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residual Strength Analysis of C/SiC Ceramic Matrix Composite Panels Subjected to Combined Thermal-Acoustic Loadings
Authors: Zhang Yuli , Sun Yi , Liu Yizhi
Published: June 2022

A study was undertaken to develop a methodology for assessing the residual strength of C/SiC ceramic matrix composite panels subjected to combined thermal-acoustic loadings. A 2D plain-woven C/SiC ceramic matrix composite panel subjected to spatially uniform thermal loading and band-limited Gaussian white noise is chosen as the computational test article, with its geometric nonlinear response determined via numerical simulation. As the input, the material properties (static strength, residual strength, and fatigue life) of this material are fully characterized under tensile and compression loads, for fiber direction at elevated temperature in static and fatigue loading conditions. Based on the methodology, a computer code is developed that simulates the cycle-by-cycle behavior of composite panels under fatigue loadings. The methodology is validated with the residual strength test of 2D plain-woven C/SiC composite panel subjected to combined thermal-acoustic loadings. It has been shown that the results of residual strength predicted by the methodology are well correlated with the experimental results.
Satellite Radiance Data Assimilation Using the WRF-3DVAR System for Tropical Storm Dianmu (2021) Forecasts
Authors: Thodsan Thippawan , Wu Falin , Torsri Kritanai , Cuestas Efren Martin Alban , Yang Gongliu
Published: June 2022

This study investigated the impact of the assimilation of satellite radiance observations in a three-dimensional variational data assimilation system (3DVAR) that could improve the tracking and intensity forecasts of the Tropical Storm Dianmu in 2021, which occurred over parts of southeast mainland Asia. The weather research and forecasting (WRF) model was used to conduct the assimilation experiments of the storm. Four sets of numerical experiments were performed using the WRF. In the first, the control experiment, only conventional data in Binary Universal Form for the Representation of Meteorological Data (PREPBUFR) observations from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) were assimilated. The second experiment (RDA1) was performed with PREPBUFR observations and satellite radiance data from the Advanced Microwave Unit-A (AMSU-A), and the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS). PREPBUFR observations and the High-resolution Infrared Radiation Sounder (HIRS-4) were used in the third experiment (RDA2). The fourth experiment (ALL-OBS) used the assimilation of PREPBUFR observations and all satellite radiance data (AMSU-A, ATMS, and HIRS-4). The community radiative transfer model was used on the forward operator for the satellite radiance assimilation, along with quality control and bias correction procedures, before assimilating the radiance data. To evaluate the impact of the assimilation experiments, a forecast starting on 00 UTC 23 September 2021, was produced for 72 h. The results showed that the ALL-OBS experiment improved the short-term forecast up to ~24 h lead time, as compared to the assimilation considering only PREPBUFR observations. When all observations were assimilated into the model, the storm’s landfall position, intensity, and structure were accurately predicted. In the deterministic forecast, the tracking errors of the ALL-OBS experiment was consistently less than 40 km within 24 h. The case study of Tropical Storm Dianmu exhibited the significant positive impact of all observations in the numerical model, which could improve updates for initial conditions and storm forecasting.
A Three-Year Climatology of the Wind Field Structure at Cape Baranova (Severnaya Zemlya, Siberia) from SODAR Observations and High-Resolution Regional Climate Model Simulations during YOPP
Authors: Heinemann Günther , Drüe Clemens , Makshtas Alexander
Published: June 2022

Measurements of the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) structure were performed for three years (October 2017–August 2020) at the Russian observatory “Ice Base Cape Baranova” (79.280° N, 101.620° E) using SODAR (Sound Detection And Ranging). These measurements were part of the YOPP (Year of Polar Prediction) project “Boundary layer measurements in the high Arctic” (CATS_BL) within the scope of a joint German–Russian project. In addition to SODAR-derived vertical profiles of wind speed and direction, a suite of complementary measurements at the observatory was available. ABL measurements were used for verification of the regional climate model COSMO-CLM (CCLM) with a 5 km resolution for 2017–2020. The CCLM was run with nesting in ERA5 data in a forecast mode for the measurement period. SODAR measurements were mostly limited to wind speeds <12 m/s since the signal was often lost for higher winds. The SODAR data showed a topographical channeling effect for the wind field in the lowest 100 m and some low-level jets (LLJs). The verification of the CCLM with near-surface data of the observatory showed good agreement for the wind and a negative bias for the 2 m temperature. The comparison with SODAR data showed a positive bias for the wind speed of about 1 m/s below 100 m, which increased to 1.5 m/s for higher levels. In contrast to the SODAR data, the CCLM data showed the frequent presence of LLJs associated with the topographic channeling in Shokalsky Strait. Although SODAR wind profiles are limited in range and have a lot of gaps, they represent a valuable data set for model verification. However, a full picture of the ABL structure and the climatology of channeling events could be obtained only with the model data. The climatological evaluation showed that the wind field at Cape Baranova was not only influenced by direct topographic channeling under conditions of southerly winds through the Shokalsky Strait but also by channeling through a mountain gap for westerly winds. LLJs were detected in 37% of all profiles and most LLJs were associated with channeling, particularly LLJs with a jet speed ≥ 15 m/s (which were 29% of all LLJs). The analysis of the simulated 10 m wind field showed that the 99%-tile of the wind speed reached 18 m/s and clearly showed a dipole structure of channeled wind at both exits of Shokalsky Strait. The climatology of channeling events showed that this dipole structure was caused by the frequent occurrence of channeling at both exits. Channeling events lasting at least 12 h occurred on about 62 days per year at both exits of Shokalsky Strait.
Evaluating the Digital Transformation Performance of Retail by the DEA Approach
Authors: Kao Ling-Jing , Chiu Chih-Chou , Lin Hung-Tse , Hung Yun-Wei , Lu Cheng-Chin
Published: June 2022

In recent years, under the impact of digitization, all industries around the world have undergone unprecedented changes. Such changes have not only altered people’s consumption behavior but have also forced enterprises to accelerate the pace of digitization and actively start digital transformation. In this study, a literature review and focus group interview (FGI) were used to develop the dimensions and criteria to assess enterprise digital transformation status. To illustrate the digital transformation criteria proposed in this research, the retail industry was used as an example to measure the overall digital transformation performance by data envelopment analysis (DEA). The results show that the poor technical efficiency demonstrated by a vendor was not only due to the gradually decreasing returns to scale of the market; a decline in pure technical efficiency was also a contributor. In addition to adjusting their production on the basis of market conditions, vendors should properly manage their internal operations and pay attention to their resource and scale allocations to prevent reductions in their pure technical efficiency.
Modulatory Effects of Estradiol and Its Mixtures with Ligands of GPER and PPAR on MAPK and PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathways and Tumorigenic Factors in Mouse Testis Explants and Mouse Tumor Leydig Cells
Authors: Gorowska-Wojtowicz Ewelina , Duliban Michal , Kotula-Balak Malgorzata , Bilinska Barbara
Published: June 2022

The present study was designed to evaluate how estradiol alone or in combination with G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) agonists and GPER and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) antagonists alter the expression of tumor growth factor β (TGF-β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), hypoxia inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in mouse testis explants and MA-10 mouse tumor Leydig cells. In order to define the hormone-associated signaling pathway, the expression of MAPK and PI3K/Akt was also examined. Tissue explants and cells were treated with estradiol as well as GPER agonist (ICI 182,780), GPER antagonist (G-15), PPARα antagonist (GW6471), and PPARγ antagonist (T00709072) in various combinations. First, we showed that in testis explants GPER and PPARα expressions were activated by the GPER agonist and estradiol (either alone or in mixtures), whereas PPARγ expression was activated only by GPER agonist. Second, increased TGF-β expression and decreased COX-2 expression were found in all experimental groups of testicular explants and MA-10 cells, except for up-regulated COX-2 expression in estradiol-treated cells, compared to respective controls. Third, estradiol treatment led to elevated expression of HIF-1α and VEGF, while their lower levels versus control were noted in the remaining groups of explants. Finally, we demonstrated the up-regulation of MAPK and PI3Kp85/Akt expressions in estradiol-treated groups of both ex vivo and in vitro models, whereas estradiol in mixtures with compounds of agonistic or antagonistic properties either up-regulated or down-regulated signaling kinase expression levels. Our results suggest that a balanced estrogen level and its action together with proper GPER and PPAR signaling play a key role in the maintenance of testis homeostasis. Moreover, changes in TGF-β and COX-2 expressions (that disrupted estrogen pathway) as well as disturbed GPER-PPAR signaling observed after estradiol treatment may be involved in testicular tumorigenesis.
Homology Modelling, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Studies of CALMH1 against Secondary Metabolites of Bauhinia variegata to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Khare Noopur , Maheshwari Sanjiv Kumar , Rizvi Syed Mohd Danish , Albadrani Hind Muteb , Alsagaby Suliman A. , Alturaiki Wael , Iqbal Danish , Zia Qamar , Villa Chiara , Jha Saurabh Kumar , Jha Niraj Kumar , Jha Abhimanyu Kumar
Published: June 2022

Calcium homeostasis modulator 1 (CALHM1) is a protein responsible for causing Alzheimer’s disease. In the absence of an experimentally designed protein molecule, homology modelling was performed. Through homology modelling, different CALHM1 models were generated and validated through Rampage. To carry out further in silico studies, through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation experiments, various flavonoids and alkaloids from Bauhinia variegata were utilised as inhibitors to target the protein (CALHM1). The sequence of CALHM1 was retrieved from UniProt and the secondary structure prediction of CALHM1 was done through CFSSP, GOR4, and SOPMA methods. The structure was identified through LOMETS, MUSTER, and MODELLER and finally, the structures were validated through Rampage. Bauhinia variegata plant was used to check the interaction of alkaloids and flavonoids against CALHM1. The protein and protein–ligand complex were also validated through molecular dynamics simulations studies. The model generated through MODELLER software with 6VAM A was used because this model predicted the best results in the Ramachandran plot. Further molecular docking was performed, quercetin was found to be the most appropriate candidate for the protein molecule with the minimum binding energy of −12.45 kcal/mol and their ADME properties were analysed through Molsoft and Molinspiration. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that CALHM1 and CALHM1–quercetin complex became stable at 2500 ps. It may be seen through the study that quercetin may act as a good inhibitor for treatment. With the help of an in silico study, it was easier to analyse the 3D structure of the protein, which may be scrutinized for the best-predicted model. Quercetin may work as a good inhibitor for treating Alzheimer’s disease, according to in silico research using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, and future in vitro and in vivo analysis may confirm its effectiveness.
Is Reduced Visual Processing the Price of Language?
Authors: Johansson Christer , Folgerø Per Olav
Published: June 2022

We suggest a later timeline for full language capabilities in Homo sapiens, placing the emergence of language over 200,000 years after the emergence of our species. The late Paleolithic period saw several significant changes. Homo sapiens became more gracile and gradually lost significant brain volumes. Detailed realistic cave paintings disappeared completely, and iconic/symbolic ones appeared at other sites. This may indicate a shift in perceptual abilities, away from an accurate perception of the present. Language in modern humans interact with vision. One example is the McGurk effect. Studies show that artistic abilities may improve when language-related brain areas are damaged or temporarily knocked out. Language relies on many pre-existing non-linguistic functions. We suggest that an overwhelming flow of perceptual information, vision, in particular, was an obstacle to language, as is sometimes implied in autism with relative language impairment. We systematically review the recent research literature investigating the relationship between language and perception. We see homologues of language-relevant brain functions predating language. Recent findings show brain lateralization for communicative gestures in other primates without language, supporting the idea that a language-ready brain may be overwhelmed by raw perception, thus blocking overt language from evolving. We find support in converging evidence for a change in neural organization away from raw perception, thus pushing the emergence of language closer in time. A recent origin of language makes it possible to investigate the genetic origins of language.
Image Retrieval for Local Architectural Heritage Recommendation Based on Deep Hashing
Authors: Ma Kai , Wang Bowen , Li Yunqin , Zhang Jiaxin
Published: June 2022

Propagating architectural heritage is of great significance to the inheritance and protection of local culture. Recommendations based on user preferences can greatly benefit the promotion of local architectural heritage so as to better protect and inherit historical culture. Thus, a powerful tool is necessary to build such a recommendation system. Recently, deep learning methods have proliferated as a means to analyze data in architectural domains. In this paper, based on a case study of Jiangxi, China, we explore a recommendation system for the architectural heritage of a local area. To organize our experiments, a dataset for traditional Chinese architecture heritage is constructed and a deep hashing retrieval method is proposed for the recommendation task. By utilizing a data fine-tuning strategy, our retrieval method can realize high-accuracy recommendation and break the model training restriction caused by insufficient data on local architectural heritage. Furthermore, we analyze the retrieval answers and map the data into a two-dimensional space to reveal the relationships between different architectural heritage categories. An image-to-location application is also provided for a better user experience.
Sustainability Assessment through Urban Accessibility Indicators and GIS in a Middle-Sized World Heritage City: The Case of Cáceres, Spain
Authors: Jiménez-Espada Montaña , Cuartero Aurora , Breton Maguelone Le
Published: June 2022

The main objective of the research consists of quantifying the degree of sustainability of the city of Cáceres in terms of the inhabitant’s accessibility to public services through the use of GIS tools and urban indicators, taking into account two areas of study: The Historic Centre (PCH) and the city as a whole. The methodology applied is based on the criteria proposed by the Spanish Government derived from the Spanish Strategy for Urban and Local Sustainability (EESUL), which suggests suitable indicators for analysing urban environments. The degree of sustainability of the study areas, applied to the field of mobility and accessibility to public services, is evaluated through numerical calculations complementing the study with accessibility maps obtained using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools. The results show that the city of Cáceres is sustainable in terms of accessibility to bus stops, organic waste containers, household waste recycling centre, schools and education, health centres, and public administration. However, bike parking coverage and lanes, clothes and oil collection, and sports centres need to be further enhanced. In conclusion, there is little disparity in the results between the PCH and the city as a whole, not influenced by the fact that one of the areas is a consolidated historic area. This research has allowed some gaps in the topic to be addressed. However, the main limitation of this methodology consists in the need to have a considerable amount of initial starting data to be able to carry out the research. Finally, the sustainability analysis using urban indicators is considered a valuable source of information for the local manager, becoming a real planning tool in medium-sized cities.
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Predict Therapeutic Efficacy of Immunotherapy in NSCLC
Authors: Rogado Jacobo , Pozo Fernando , Troule Kevin , Sánchez-Torres José Miguel , Romero-Laorden Nuria , Mondejar Rebeca , Donnay Olga , Ballesteros Anabel , Pacheco-Barcia Vilma , Aspa Javier , Al-Shahrour Fátima , Alfranca Arantzazu , Colomer Ramon
Published: June 2022

In lung cancer immunotherapy, biomarkers to guide clinical decisions are limited. We now explore whether the detailed immunophenotyping of circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) can predict the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We determined 107 PBMCs subpopulations in a prospective cohort of NSCLC patients before starting single-agent anti-PD-1 immunotherapy (study group), analyzed by flow cytometry. As a control group, we studied patients with advanced malignancies before initiating non-immunotherapy treatment. The frequency of PBMCs was correlated with treatment outcome. Patients were categorized as having either high or low expression for each biomarker, defined as those above the 55th or below the 45th percentile of the overall marker expression within the cohort. In the study group, three subpopulations were associated with significant differences in outcome: high pretreatment levels of circulating CD4+CCR9+, CD4+CCR10+, or CD8+CXCR4+ T cells correlated with poorer overall survival (15.7 vs. 35.9 months, HR 0.16, p = 0.003; 22.0 vs. NR months, HR 0.10, p = 0.003, and 22.0 vs. NR months, HR 0.29, p = 0.02). These differences were specific to immunotherapy-treated patients. High baseline levels of circulating T cell subpopulations related to tissue lymphocyte recruitment are associated with poorer outcomes of immunotherapy-treated advanced NSCLC patients.
MALAT1 as a Regulator of the Androgen-Dependent Choline Kinase A Gene in the Metabolic Rewiring of Prostate Cancer
Authors: De Martino Sara , Iorio Egidio , Cencioni Chiara , Aiello Aurora , Spallotta Francesco , Chirico Mattea , Pisanu Maria Elena , Grassi Claudio , Pontecorvi Alfredo , Gaetano Carlo , Nanni Simona , Farsetti Antonella
Published: June 2022

Background. Choline kinase alpha (CHKA), an essential gene in phospholipid metabolism, is among the modulated MALAT1-targeted transcripts in advanced and metastatic prostate cancer (PCa). Methods. We analyzed CHKA mRNA by qPCR upon MALAT1 targeting in PCa cells, which is characterized by high dose-responsiveness to the androgen receptor (AR) and its variants. Metabolome analysis of MALAT1-depleted cells was performed by quantitative High-resolution 1 H-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. In addition, CHKA genomic regions were evaluated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) in order to assess MALAT1-dependent histone-tail modifications and AR recruitment. Results. In MALAT1-depleted cells, the decrease of CHKA gene expression was associated with reduced total choline-containing metabolites compared to controls, particularly phosphocholine (PCho). Upon MALAT1 targeting a significant increase in repressive histone modifications was observed at the CHKA intron-2, encompassing relevant AR binding sites. Combining of MALAT1 targeting with androgen treatment prevented MALAT1-dependent CHKA silencing in androgen-responsive (LNCaP) cells, while it did not in hormone-refractory cells (22RV1 cells). Moreover, AR nuclear translocation and its activation were detected by confocal microscopy analysis and ChIP upon MALAT1 targeting or androgen treatment. Conclusions. These findings support the role of MALAT1 as a CHKA activator through putative association with the liganded or unliganded AR, unveiling its targeting as a therapeutic option from a metabolic rewiring perspective.
Expression Profiles of ID and E2A in Ovarian Cancer and Suppression of Ovarian Cancer by the E2A Isoform E47
Authors: Lee Yong-Jae , Nam Eun-Ji , Kim Sunghoon , Kim Young-Tae , Itkin-Ansari Pamela , Kim Sang-Wun
Published: June 2022

The E2A and inhibitor of DNA binding (ID) proteins are transcription factors involved in cell cycle regulation and cellular differentiation. Imbalance of ID/E2A activity is associated with oncogenesis in various tumors, but their expression patterns and prognostic values are still unknown. We evaluated ID and E2A expression in ovarian cancer cells, and assessed the possibility of reprogramming ovarian cellular homeostasis by restoring the ID/E2A axis. We analyzed copy number alterations, mutations, methylations, and mRNA expressions of ID 1–4 and E2A using The Cancer Genome Atlas data of 570 ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma patients. Incidentally, 97.2% cases exhibited gain of ID 1–4 or loss of E2A. Predominantly, ID 1–4 were hypomethylated, while E2A was hypermethylated. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that ID-3 and ID-4 expressions were high while E2A expression was low in cancerous ovarian tissues. Correlation analysis of ID and E2A levels with survival outcomes of ovarian cancer patients indicated that patients with high ID-3 levels had poor overall survival. We also determined the effect of E2A induction on ovarian cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo using SKOV-3/Luc cells transduced with tamoxifen-inducible E47, a splice variant of E2A. Interestingly, E47 induced SKOV-3 cell death in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in SKOV-3 implanted mice. Therefore, restoring ID/E2A balance is a promising approach for treating ovarian cancer.
Rare-Earth/Manganese Oxide-Based Composites Materials for Electrochemical Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Panić Stefan V. , Pantović Pavlović Marijana R. , Varničić Miroslava M. , Tadić Vojin , Stopić Srećko , Friedrich Bernd , Pavlović Miroslav M.
Published: June 2022

The main objective of this research was a systematic development of advanced micro/nanostructured materials based on the most used metal-oxides for ORR and metal-oxides with an extremely low-loading of Pt for comparison. Hybrid composites compared were: MnO2, La2O3, mixed lanthanum manganese oxides (LMO), and mixed lanthanum manganese oxides with reduced platinum load (LMO-Pt). The influence of the reduced amount of noble metal, as well as single oxide activity toward ORR, was analyzed. The complete electrochemical performance of the hybrid materials has been performed by means of CV, LSV, and EIS. It was shown that all synthesized catalytic materials were ORR-active with noticeable reduction currents in O2 saturated 0.1 M KOH. The ORR behavior indicated that the La2O3 electrode has a different mechanism than the other tested electrode materials (MnO2, LMO, and LMO-Pt). The EIS results have revealed that the ORR reaction is of a mixed character, being electrochemically and diffusion controlled. Even more, diffusion is of mixed character due to transport of O2 molecules and the chemical reaction of oxygen reduction. O2 diffusion was shown to be the dominant process for MnO2, LMO, and LMO-Pt electrolytic materials, while chemical reaction is the dominant process for La2O3 electrolytic materials.
α-Fe2O3/Reduced Graphene Oxide Composites as Cost-Effective Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Lian , Zhang Qian , Liang Qijie , Li Wenbo , Li Xiangguo , Liu Shenghua , Shuai Jing
Published: June 2022

The counter electrode (CE) is an important and vital part of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Pt CEs show high-performance in DSSCs using iodide-based electrolytes. However, the high cost of Pt CEs restricts their large-scale application in DSSCs and the development of Pt-free CE is expected. Here, α-Fe2O3/reduced graphene oxide (α-Fe2O3/RGO) composites are prepared as the Pt-free CE materials for DSSCs. A simple hydrothermal technique was used to disseminate the α-Fe2O3 solid nanoparticles uniformly throughout the RGO surface. The presence of the α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles increases the specific surface area of RGO and allows the composites to be porous, which improves the diffusion of liquid electrolyte into the CE material. Then, the electrocatalytic properties of CEs with α-Fe2O3/RGO, α-Fe2O3, RGO, and Pt materials are compared. The α-Fe2O3/RGO CE has a similar electrocatalytic performance to Pt CE, which is superior to those of the pure α-Fe2O3 and RGO CEs. After being fabricated as DSSCs, the current–voltage measurements reveal that the DSSC based on α-Fe2O3/RGO CE has a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.12%, which is 88% that of Pt CE and much higher than that of pure α-Fe2O3 and pure RGO CEs. All the results show that this work describes a promising material for cost-effective, Pt-free CEs for DSSCs.
Region-Specific Characteristics of Astrocytes and Microglia: A Possible Involvement in Aging and Diseases
Authors: Lee Jae , Kim Sung Wook , Kim Kyong-Tai
Published: June 2022

Although different regions of the brain are dedicated to specific functions, the intra- and inter-regional heterogeneity of astrocytes and microglia in these regions has not yet been fully understood. Recently, an advancement in various technologies, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, has allowed for the discovery of astrocytes and microglia with distinct molecular fingerprints and varying functions in the brain. In addition, the regional heterogeneity of astrocytes and microglia exhibits different functions in several situations, such as aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, investigating the region-specific astrocytes and microglia is important in understanding the overall function of the brain. In this review, we summarize up-to-date research on various intra- and inter-regional heterogeneities of astrocytes and microglia, and provide information on how they can be applied to aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Regulation of the Intestinal Extra-Adrenal Steroidogenic Pathway Component LRH-1 by Glucocorticoids in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Landskron Glauben , Dubois-Camacho Karen , Orellana-Serradell Octavio , De la Fuente Marjorie , Parada-Venegas Daniela , Bitrán Mirit , Diaz-Jimenez David , Tang Shuang , Cidlowski John A. , Li Xiaoling , Molina Hector , Gonzalez Carlos M. , Simian Daniela , Lubascher Jaime , Pola Victor , Montecino Martín , Blokzijl Tjasso , Faber Klaas Nico , González María-Julieta , Quera Rodrigo , Hermoso Marcela A.
Published: June 2022

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and can be treated with glucocorticoids (GC), although some patients are unresponsive to this therapy. The transcription factor LRH-1/NR5A2 is critical to intestinal cortisol production (intestinal steroidogenesis), being reduced in UC patients. However, the relationship between LRH-1 expression and distribution with altered corticosteroid responses is unknown. To address this, we categorized UC patients by their steroid response. Here, we found that steroid-dependent and refractory patients presented reduced glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-mediated intestinal steroidogenesis compared to healthy individuals and responder patients, possibly related to increased colonic mucosa GR isoform beta (GRβ) content and cytoplasmic LRH-1 levels in epithelial and lamina propria cells. Interestingly, an intestinal epithelium-specific GR-induced knockout (GRiKO) dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-colitis mice model presented decreased epithelial LRH-1 expression, whilst it increased in the lamina propria compared to DSS-treated control mice. Mechanistically, GR directly induced NR5A2 gene expression in CCD841CoN cells and human colonic organoids. Furthermore, GR bound to two glucocorticoid-response elements within the NR5A2 promoter in dexamethasone-stimulated CCD841CoN cells. We conclude that GR contributes to intestinal steroidogenesis by inducing LRH-1 in epithelial cells, suggesting LRH-1 as a potential marker for glucocorticoid-impaired response in UC. However, further studies with a larger patient cohort will be necessary to confirm role of LRH-1 as a therapeutic biomarker.
Super-Resolution Imaging of Fas/CD95 Reorganization Induced by Membrane-Bound Fas Ligand Reveals Nanoscale Clustering Upstream of FADD Recruitment
Authors: Frazzette Nicholas , Cruz Anthony C. , Wu Xufeng , Hammer John A. , Lippincott-Schwartz Jennifer , Siegel Richard M. , Sengupta Prabuddha
Published: June 2022

Signaling through the TNF-family receptor Fas/CD95 can trigger apoptosis or non-apoptotic cellular responses and is essential for protection from autoimmunity. Receptor clustering has been observed following interaction with Fas ligand (FasL), but the stoichiometry of Fas, particularly when triggered by membrane-bound FasL, the only form of FasL competent at inducing programmed cell death, is not known. Here we used super-resolution microscopy to study the behavior of single molecules of Fas/CD95 on the plasma membrane after interaction of Fas with FasL on planar lipid bilayers. We observed rapid formation of Fas protein superclusters containing more than 20 receptors after interactions with membrane-bound FasL. Fluorescence correlation imaging demonstrated recruitment of FADD dependent on an intact Fas death domain, with lipid raft association playing a secondary role. Flow-cytometric FRET analysis confirmed these results, and also showed that some Fas clustering can occur in the absence of FADD and caspase-8. Point mutations in the Fas death domain associated with autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) completely disrupted Fas reorganization and FADD recruitment, confirming structure-based predictions of the critical role that these residues play in Fas–Fas and Fas–FADD interactions. Finally, we showed that induction of apoptosis correlated with the ability to form superclusters and recruit FADD.
Differential Sensing of Antibiotics Using Metal Ions and Gold Nanoclusters Based on TMB–H2O2 System
Authors: Liu Suqin , Wang Jinjie , Hu Yue , Shi Yunjing , Yang Jingxia , Zhang Min
Published: June 2022

In the water system, antibiotic pollution significantly impacts the human body and the environment. Therefore, it is essential to quickly identify the types of antibiotics in the system and detect their concentration. It has been reported that many metal ions interact with antibiotics, and some of them can also change the enzyme-like catalytic properties of gold clusters (AuNCs). In the experiments, we found significant differences in the experimental results when different antibiotics and metal ions were placed in a TMB-H2O2 system with AuNCs as catalysts. Based on this result, we devised a simple and sensitive colorimetric method for the simultaneous detection of multiple antibiotics using AuNCs-metal ions as the sensor, a multifunctional microplate detector as the detection instrument, and LDA as the analytical method. This method was successfully applied for the identification of antibiotics and the detection of their concentrations in river water.
Fractures in the Setting of Constriction Band Syndrome: A Case Series of Three Patients with Extremity Fractures at the Site of a Constriction Band
Authors: Cho Yerin , Qubain Leeann , Esparza Melissa , Karlen Judson , Schaub Timothy , Belthur Mohan V
Published: June 2022

Constriction band syndrome (CBS) is a rare condition where fibrous bands constrict one or more parts of the fetus with varying manifestations such as autoamputation, acrosyndactyly, and neuropathy. However, isolated extremity fractures in the setting of constriction band syndrome are even more rare, with only two reported cases in the literature. There are few guidelines on the management of CBS due to small case numbers, the variability of presentation between patients, and the lack of consensus on etiology and pathogenesis. In this small case series, we describe the presentation and management of three patients at our institution with extremity fractures at the site of severe constriction bands with neurologic injuries or vascular compromise. We also review the literature on this topic to provide further context. Intramedullary stabilization of the fracture with a k-wire allowed for soft tissue healing in two of our patients.
A Preclinical Pilot Study on the Effects of Thermal Ablation on Lamb Growth Plates
Authors: Jäckle Katharina , Lippross Sebastian , Michel Theresa Elisabeth , Kowallick Johannes T. , Dullin Christian , Lüders Katja A. , Lorenz Heiko M. , Tsaknakis Konstantinos , Hell Anna K.
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: Thermal ablation has been demonstrated to affect the bone growth of osteoid osteoma in adolescents. Growth modulation due to thermal heat in children is conceivable, but has not yet been established. We used lamb extremities as a preclinical model to examine the effect of thermal ablation on growth plates in order to evaluate its potential for axial or longitudinal growth modulation in pediatric patients. (2) Methods: Thermal ablation was performed by electrocautery on eight different growth plates of the legs and distal radii of a stillborn lamb. After treatment, target hits and the physical extent of the growth plate lesions were monitored using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histology. (3) Results: Lesions and their physical extent could be quantified in 75% of the treated extremities. The histological analysis revealed that the disruption of tissue was confined to a small area and the applied heat did not cause the entire growth plate to be disrupted or obviously damaged. (4) Conclusions: Thermal ablation by electrocautery is minimally invasive and can be used for targeted disruption of small areas in growth plates in the animal model. The results suggest that thermal ablation can be developed into a suitable method to influence epiphyseal growth in children.
A Highly Breathable and Machine-Washable ePTFE-Aided Down-Proof Cotton Fabric
Authors: Wang Yong , Ying Lili , Sun Ruixia , Li Changlong , Ding Zhenhua , Wang Zongqian
Published: June 2022

Feather and down textiles are widely used in our daily life, especially in winter. However, they are easily drilled out from the fabric body and are difficult to machine-wash, which thereby blocks their widespread application. In order to solve these issues, a highly anti-drilling, breathable and machine-washable ePTFE-aided down-proof cotton fabric was prepared in this work, which was done by modifying a plain-weave cotton fabric with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) nanofiber membrane via point glue method. The fabrication procedure is simple, scalable and environmentally friendly, which is a prerequisite for large-scale production. The effects of tumble and washing cycles on pore size distribution and the corresponding anti-drilling behavior of the prepared down-proof fabric were systematically investigated. Furthermore, the machine washability, air permeability, thermal insulation and tensile properties of the fabric were studied. The results demonstrated that less than five drilled files escaped from the fabric surface, irrespective of tumble and/or laundering cycles, and it also has the advantages of being lightweight (<83 g/m2), having high breathability, a good thermal insulation rate (≈80%) and can be washed with surfactant by a laundry machine without explosion. Benefiting from the above characteristics, the as-prepared ePTFE-aided down-proof cotton fabric presents its potential application in the field of home textiles.
Optical Conductivity Spectra of Charge-Crystal and Charge-Glass States in a Series of θ-Type BEDT-TTF Compounds
Authors: Hashimoto Kenichiro , Kobayashi Ryota , Ohkura Satoshi , Sasaki Satoru , Yoneyama Naoki , Suda Masayuki , Yamamoto Hiroshi M. , Sasaki Takahiko
Published: June 2022

In the 3/4-filled band system θ-(BEDT-TTF)2X with a two-dimensional triangular lattice, charge ordering (CO) often occurs due to strong inter-site Coulomb repulsion. However, the strong geometrical frustration of the triangular lattice can prohibit long-range CO, resulting in a charge-glass state in which the charge configurations are randomly distributed. Here, we investigate the charge-glass states of orthorhombic and monoclinic θ-type BEDT-TTF salts by measuring the electrical resistivity and optical conductivity spectra. We find a substantial difference between the charge-glass states of the orthorhombic and monoclinic systems. The charge-glass state in the orthorhombic system with an isotropic triangular lattice exhibits larger low-energy excitations than that in the monoclinic one with an anisotropic triangular lattice and becomes more metallic as the isotropy of the triangular lattice increases. These results can be understood by the different charge-glass formation mechanisms in the two systems: in the orthorhombic system, the charge-glass state originates from geometric frustration due to the equilateral triangular lattice, leading to metallic 3-fold COs, whereas in the monoclinic system, the charge-glass formation originates from geometric frustration of the isosceles triangular lattice, in which the charge-glass state is described by the superposition of insulating 2-fold stripe COs.
Narrow Gap Welding of X80 Steel Using Laser-CMT Hybrid Welding with Misaligned Laser and Arc
Authors: Zheng Bofang , Li Yang , Ao Sansan , Zhang Xianlong , Zhang Di , Manladan Sunusi Marwana , Luo Zhen , Yang Yue , Bi Yuanbo
Published: June 2022

The feasibility of using laser-cold metal transfer (CMT) misaligned hybrid welding to join an X80 line-pipe steel in a narrow gap configuration was investigated. The laser beam interacted with the sidewall and its bottom at a small angle, while the CMT arc acted on the backside of the laser beam. The influence of the distance parameter between the laser spot and the tip of the welding wire on the formation and defects of the filled weld were investigated. Narrow gap bevel welds were performed, and the joints were tensile and had a satisfactory Charpy impact score. The tensile fracture is located in the base metal, and the impact fracture is a ductile fracture. Under this condition, the heat input could be efficiently reduced, preventing the formation of defects such as lack of fusion and reducing the number of pores. Additionally, welds with a narrow heat affect zone (HAZ) could be obtained. The results reveal that the hybrid process, as a low-heat input method, is suitable for narrow gap welding.
The Potential Effect of Annealing Mesostructured Titanium Dioxide Electrode in a Closed Box Furnace on the Concentration of Lead (II) Iodide Solution Required for Optimal Performance of Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Masood Muhammad Talha , Safdar Amna , Akram Muhammad Aftab , Javed Sofia , Qudsia Syeda
Published: June 2022

Highly reproducible mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) can be fabricated using two-step sequential deposition of organo-lead halide (perovskite) active layer. However, differences in the processing conditions of individual layers which are subsequently assembled to construct the ultimate device can result in variations in the solar cell performance. For instance, here we report trends in the device performance as a function of PbI2 solution concentration, where the compact and mesoporous TiO2 layers were annealed in a closed box furnace (instead of doing it in open air). We observed that the devices prepared using 1.2 M PbI2 solution concentration performed better than those prepared from 0.8 M and 1 M PbI2 solutions. Generally, the researchers use the hot plate in an open-air environment or use a special hot plate where a continuous flow of air is ensured while annealing TiO2 electron selective layers (ESL) for perovskite solar cells. In this case, the highest possible device efficiencies are achieved using 1 M concentration of PbI2 solution. Although the influence of PbI2 solution concentration has been previously studied in detail, here our prime focus is to briefly comment on slight differences in the device performance trends which we observed in comparison to the previously reported results, where TiO2 layers were calcined in open air.
Development of Double C-Shaped Left-Handed Metamaterial for Dual-Band Wi-Fi and Satellite Communication Application with High Effective Medium Radio and Wide Bandwidth
Authors: Sifat Rasheduzzaman , Faruque Mohammad Rashed Iqbal , Hossain Md Bellal , Abdullah Mardina , Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin , Tamam Nissren , Sulieman Abdelmoneim
Published: June 2022

The development and improvement of the dual-band 802.11ac standard Wi-Fi and wide bandwidth satellite communication devices are currently research subjects that have garnered significant interest. In this paper, double C-shaped two split-ring resonator (SRR) bounded unit cells were developed, which are applicable for S, C, and X band applications, including dual-band Wi-Fi communication devices and satellite communication applications for its effective medium ratio (EMR) of 15.6, which results in a 2.4 GHz resonance frequency and wide bandwidth (S21 < −10 dB) of 1650 MHz at an 11.5 GHz resonance frequency. A copper resonator and the popular substrate material Rogers RT 5880 (thickness of 1.575 mm) were adopted for analyzing the characteristics of this unit cell. The 8×8 mm2 structure was designed and simulated using a commercially available electromagnetic simulator CST (Computer Simulation Technology) Studio Suite 2019, which was utilized at four resonance frequencies: 2.4 GHz, 5.6 GHz, 8.93 GHz, and 11.5 GHz. The electric field, magnetic field, and surface current distribution were examined by modifying the metamaterial unit cell design structure, showing effective results. To confirm the CST simulation results, the newly designed double C-shaped double-negative metamaterial (DNG) was also simulated with the Ansys High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) and compared with the extracted results. The suggested metamaterial is advised for usage in Wi-Fi and satellite communication applications for superior long-distance communication performance and efficiency with the compactness of the structure.
Retrospective Analysis of Emotional Burden and the Need for Support of Patients and Their Informal Caregivers after Palliative Radiation Treatment for Brain Metastases
Authors: Lütscher Jamie , Siegenthaler Christa , Hertler Caroline , Blum David , Windisch Paul , Shaker Renate , Schröder Christina , Zwahlen Daniel
Published: June 2022

Cancer burdens not only the patients themselves but also their personal environment. A few studies have already focused on the mental health and personal needs of caregivers of patients. The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to further assess the emotional burden and unmet needs for support of caregivers in a population of brain metastasis patients. In the time period 2013–2020, we identified 42 informal caregivers of their respective patients after palliative radiation treatment for brain metastases. The caregivers completed two standardized questionnaires about different treatment aspects, their emotional burden, and unmet needs for support. Involvement of psycho-oncology and palliative care was examined in a chart review. The majority of the caregivers (71.4%, n = 30) suffered from high emotional burden during cancer treatment of their relatives and showed unmet needs for emotional and psychosocial support, mostly referring to information needs and the involvement in the patient’s treatment decisions. Other unmet needs referred to handling personal needs and fears of dealing with the sick cancer patient in terms of practical care tasks and appropriate communication. Palliative care was involved in 30 cases and psycho-oncology in 12 cases. There is a high need for emotional and psychosocial support in informal caregivers of cancer patients. There might still be room for an improvement of psychosocial and psycho-oncological support. Care planning should cater to the emotional burden and unmet needs of informal caregivers as well. Further prospective studies in larger samples should be performed in order to confirm this analysis.
Effects of Environment and Human Activities on Plant Diversity in Wetlands along the Yellow River in Henan Province, China
Authors: Yuan Zhiliang , Xiao Man , Su Xiao , Zhao He , Li Yushan , Zhang Huiping , Zhou Ziyu , Qi Rui , Chen Yun , Wang Wei
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: The Yellow River is the sixth longest river in the world, and it is considered the mother river of China. Biodiversity conservation in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River is an urgent concern due to the impact of topography, sediment deposition, and human activities. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the diversity of plant communities in wetlands along the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River from the perspectives of the natural environment and human disturbance. Materials and Methods: In this study, 830 plots were set up in seven nature reserves in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River to investigate wetland plant diversity. The distribution characteristics of plant diversity and the effects of environmental and human activities on plant diversity were analyzed. Results: (1) A total of 184 plant species belonging to 52 families and 135 genera were found in the seven nature reserves. Network analysis showed that the connectance index was 0.3018. (2) Betadisper analysis followed by ANOVA revealed differences in the community composition of the wetland plants (F = 21.123, p < 0.001) in the different nature reserves. (3) Analysis of variation partitioning indicated that the effects of pure environmental factors (elevation, precipitation, evaporation, and temperature) on the beta diversity of the wetland plants in the nature reserves was the strongest (15.45% and 17.08%, respectively), followed by the effects of pure human disturbance factors (population density, industrial output value, and agricultural output value) (15.13% and 16.71%, respectively). Conclusions: Variations occurred in the assemblage characteristics of the wetland plants in the different Yellow River wetland nature reserves. The wetland species exhibited strong associations with the reserves in the Yellow River wetland in Henan Province. Elevation, longitude, precipitation, and evaporation were important factors that affected the diversity of wetland plants in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River in China. The findings provide insights into plant biodiversity conservation in riverine wetlands.