bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Selective Endothelin Receptor Antagonist on Vegf Signaling System in Diabetic Penis: A Possible Clinical Implication for Diabetes Induced Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Maqbool Adil , Jesmin Subrina , N Mowa Chishimba , Sultana Sayeeda Nusrat , Shimojo Nobutake , Matsuishi Yujiro , Shima Takeru , Yamaguchi Naoto , Miyauchi Takashi , Kawano Satoru , Moroi Masao
Published: January 2022

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects around 50 percent of male diabetic patients due to vascular and neuropathic complications arising from diabetes. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been extensively investigated for its pathogenic relevance in various diabetes complications, and we have already noted that VEGF signaling is significantly reduced at the insulin-resistant stage in the penis of type II diabetic rat model. The present research used a three-week streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic (DM) rat model to determine the expression of VEGF with NO mechanism in penile tissue and subsequently investigated its impact endothelin antagonism on these shifts. Citrate saline vehicle or STZ (65 mg/kg IP) was administered to male Sprague-Dawley rats (weight 453 ± 23 g). Hyperglycemia confirmed diabetes, and then after 1 week of diabetes, animals were divided into receiving endothelin-A (ET-A) receptor antagonists (TA-0201, 1 mg/kg) or saline by osmotic minipump for 2 weeks and then sacrificed. Significantly improved glucose levels in DM rats (405 ± 103 mg/dL) relative to non-DM rats (120 ± 8 mg/dL) and higher local ET-1 levels in DM penis by 20% are observed. A 30 percent decline in penile tissue expression of VEGF was observed in DM rats and improved by an antagonist with ET. Penile NO and eNOS levels in DM rats decreased, while ET-A receptor antagonist significantly increased. Therefore, we infer that ET antagonism seemed able to restore the down-regulated VEGF and was possibly efficient in restoring the decreased levels of NO and eNOS in DM.
Association between Anthropometric Variables and Patient Outcomes Among Patients with COVID-19 Infection in A Latin-American City
Authors: Hernandez Eder A. , Ortiz Kelly B , Varela Daniela L , Barrera Jesus D , Vergara Gustavo , Manzur Maria C , Rosero Ricardo
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the relationship between anthropometric variables and patient outcomes among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at our institution. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in general wards and critical care unit. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Results: A total of 130 patients meeting inclusion criteria and hospitalized between April and August 2020 participated in this study. The majority of patients were male (63%), mean age was 59,5 ± 18.5 years, and 53,8% were older than 60 years. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.7 kg/m2 (SD 3.69). Patients with diabetes mellitus exhibited a statistically significant increase in mortality (relative risk 4.8; CI95% 1,7 – 13.8). While there was an association between being overweight or having some degree of obesity with greater mortality, this association did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Chronic diseases are associated with complications and increased mortality in patients infected with COVID-19. Thus, efforts should be made towards achieving management of comorbidities and improved lifestyle habits.
Perceptions and Understandings of Low Literacy Among Developing Teacher Candidates
Authors: Baugher Johannah , Singleton Everett
Published: January 2022

While little is known of the perceptions held by members of the general public toward persons of low literacy background, this research study worked to inform a subset of those perceptions as held by developing teacher candidates.  Additionally, this study sought to more concretely frame contributing and non-contributing factors which this same population believed influenced occurrences of low literacy.  Anchored in the concept of intersectionality (Crenshaw, 1989), this study collected and analyzed 56 survey responses which yielded informative themes that further defined low literacy as an obstacle, outcome, level of performance, or degree of achievement. 

Teacher candidates further demonstrated an understanding that conditions of low literacy were often situationally-defined as those persons were commonly disadvantaged in some way.  Candidates’ responses further purported their action plan in confronting low literacy in their classroom was founded upon these verbs: act, invest, connect, and equalize.  Though this study alone is not comprehensive or absolute in its findings, it does help to inform a step of the journey that will lead to a more accurate understanding of the perceptions held of low literacy and its many, influential tentacles.
Maintaining Fidelity in Teacher Education Programs During COVID-19
Authors: Dague Christopher Thomas , Graham Tammy , Kim Soo Joung
Published: January 2022

Three teacher education professors describe their respective professional experiences surrounding the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each detail how their professional experience and foci led them to make changes to best serve the students at their institution. This article intends to serve teacher educators by striking a balance between theory and practical application while candidly addressing successes and areas for improvement.
PENERJEMAHAN IDIOMATIS PETER NEWMARK DAN MILDRED LARSON
Authors: Yusniaty Galingging  , Gunawan Tambunsaribu
Published: January 2022

Abstrak

Bidang penerjemahan pada era globalisasi ini merupakan pengetahuan yang sangat bermanfaat untuk dikuasai. Melalui penguasaan teori penerjemahan berbagai kajian terjemahan dapat dilakukan. Tulisan ini akan membicarakan dua penulis teori penerjemahan, yaitu Mildred Larson dan Peter Newmark. Kedua penulis ini membahas teori penerjemahan yang sering dirujuk pada mata kuliah penerjemahan oleh mahasiswa fakultas Sastra UKI. Dalam teorinya, ditemukan bahwa mereka menggunakan istilah yang sama, yaitu penerjemahan idiomatis. Istilah yang sama ini tidak secara serta merta dipahami mempunyai maksud yang sama, oleh karena itu perlu dikaji lebih dalam untuk mengetahui makna dari istilah tersebut. Apa yang dimaksud Larson dengan penerjemahan idiomatis dan yang dimaksud Newmark tidaklah    sama.  Tulisan ini dimaksudkan menguraikan istilah penerjemahan idiomatis oleh Newmark dan Larson dalam metode penerjemahan mereka. Menurut Larson, penerjemahan idiomatis adalah penerjemahan yang menggunakan bentuk gramatikal dan leksikal yang natural dari bahasa sasaran. Selain itu penerjemahan idiomatis merupakan penerjemahan yang harus dicapai oleh seorang penerjemah. Sementara itu, menurut Newmark penerjemahan idiomatis bukanlah   tujuan yang harus dicapai oleh seorang penerjemah karena penerjemahan ini menggunakan kata-kata sehari-hari dalam terjemahannya dan juga menggunakan idiom-idiom yang tidak ditemukan pada teks sumber.

 

Kata kunci: penerjemahan, teori penerjemahan, penerjemahan idiomatis, metode penerjemahan, jenis-jenis penerjemahan.

 

Abstract

 

The field of translation in this globalization era is a very useful knowledge to be mastered. By mastering the translation theory, various translation studies can be carried out. This paper will discuss two authors of translation theory, namely Mildred Larson and Peter Newmark. These two authors discuss translation theory, often referred to in translation classes, in the Faculty of Letters of UKI. Both of them use the same term, namely idiomatic translation. This same term should not be automatically understood as to have the same purpose; therefore, it is necessary to understand the meaning of the term. What Larson meant by idiomatic translation and what Newmark meant were not equally the same. This paper is intended to describe the term idiomatic translation by Newmark and Larson in their translation theory. According to Larson, idiomatic translation is a translation that uses the natural grammatical and lexical forms of the target language. Besides, idiomatic translation is a goal that a translator must achieve. Meanwhile, for Newmark, since this method uses colloquialisms and idioms that are not found in the original text, the idiomatic translation is not the translation's goal.

 

Keywords: translation, translation theory, idiomatic translation, translation methods, kinds of translation.
AN INVESTIGATION OF ENGLISH DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG LEARNERS AT STAR KIDS PRESCHOOL
Authors: Febrimarini Sinulingga
Published: January 2022

Abstrak

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui perkembangan bahasa Inggris pelajar muda di prasekolah Star Kids. Ini adalah studi kasus. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui observasi dan wawancara semi terstruktur. Sumber data diambil dari guru, orang tua, dan kepala sekolah sebagai perwakilan manajemen sekolah di TK Star Kids. Analisis data menunjukkan bahwa guru di prasekolah Star Kids membantu pelajar muda mengembangkan bahasa Inggris mereka, tetapi pengetahuan tentang pelajar muda masih kurang. Orang tua dan kepala sekolah puas dengan guru karena mereka menjaga komunikasi yang baik. Temuan data menunjukkan bahwa para guru membutuhkan lebih banyak seminar, lokakarya, atau kursus dalam mengajar pelajar muda dengan benar.

 

Kata kunci: investigasi, pengembangan, siswa TK

 

 

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the English development of young learners at Star Kids preschool. It is a case study. The data were collected through observations and semi-structured interviews.  The data sources were taken from the teachers, the parents, and the headmaster as the school management representative in Star Kids preschool. The data analysis indicated that the teachers in Star Kids preschool help young learners develop their English language, but the knowledge about young learners is still insufficient. The parents and the headmaster satisfy with the teachers since they maintain good communication. The data findings suggest that the teachers need more seminars, workshops, or courses in teaching young learners properly.

 

Keywords: investigation, development, young learners
Atorvastan, Apsirin and Hydorxyurea for an Effective and Low-Cost Treatment in High-Risk Polycythemia Vera
Authors: Amaru Ricardo , Carrasco Mireya , Gordeuk Victor R , Quispe Teddy , Mancilla Silvia , Patón Daniela , Amaru Ariel
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Polycythemia vera (PV) treatment focuses on preventing thrombotic events and delaying transformation to myelofibrosis or leukaemia. According to risk stratification, low-risk patients require therapeutic phlebotomy combined with acetylsalicylic acid, whilst the treatment of high-risk patients with PV relies on cytoreductive therapies, employing hydroxyurea (HU), ruxolitinib, or interferons. However, in low- and middle-income countries, the availability and cost of these drugs
poses a challenge in treating high-risk patients, so optimising existing resources is required.
Method: A prospective longitudinal study aimed to investigate the combination of atorvastatin (ATV), aspirin, and low-dose HU as a therapeutic strategy to treat PV in high-risk patients. The study evaluated the effect of statins on erythroid colony proliferation in vitro, as well as the applicability of ATV (20 mg/day), acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/day), and hydroxiurea (500 mg/day) in high-risk patients with PV from La Paz, Bolivia, residing at 3,600 metres above sea level.
Results: Simvastatin (3.5 μm) inhibited UKE-1 cell (JAK2V617F mutated) proliferation at 33%, and burstforming unit-erythroid colonies from patients with PV at 61%. Patients receiving ATV, aspirin, and low-dose HU displayed a good response and adequate tolerance to treatment (13-years follow-up). No patients experienced myelofibrosis or transformation to leukaemia, and no severe adverse events were observed.
Conclusions: This accessible, effective, and low-cost therapeutic strategy could improve adherence to treatment and the overall survival of high-risk patients with PV in resource-limited countries.
Standardization of Growing Media for Grapes Nursery Production
Authors: Saqib Muhammad , Razzaq Kashif , Ullah Sami , Hussain Abid , Rajwana Ishtiaq A. , Naz Ambreen , Akhtar Gulzar , Amin Muhammad , Faried Hafiz N. , Zafar Muhammad S. , Shafique Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Nursery production of grapes in soil-based media causes higher mortality due to soil-borne diseases including root rot, damping off, phytophthora and die back etc. The study was planned to explore the potential of various growing media for the nursery production of grapes cv. Sultana-C through cuttings. Six different growing media including peat moss, silt, sugarcane bagasse, saw dust, coconut fiber and farm yard manure alone and in different combinations (16) were tested. Treatments were arranged under Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and replicated five times. Results indicated that grapes cutting planted in (GM13) media combination of sugarcane bagasse, silt and saw dust (1:1:1) exhibited highest sprouting percentage (100%) and significant results for shoots and roots length (41.4 and 40.4 cm respectively), inter-nodal distance (3.4 cm), leaf area (78.93 cm), no. of leaves (12.3), shoots diameter (10.43 cm) and fresh weight of shoots and roots (17.35 and 19.84 g) as compared to other growing media. Maximum mortality percentage was observed in media (GM6) containing Silt + FYM (1:1) and (GM18) sawdust + FYM + coconut fiber (1:1:1). Conclusively, the combination of sugarcane bagasse, silt and saw dust (1:1:1) has been proved highly significant for survival and growth of grapes nursery.
Resilien Terhadap Pandemi Covid-19: Analisis terhadap Konten Youtube tentang Kesehatan, Ekonomi, dan Sosial
Authors: Alamsyah Anggriani
Published: January 2022

Tulisan ini bertujuan menggambarkan beragam tayangan YouTube di masa Pandemi COVID-19 menyangkut kesehatan, ekonomi, dan sosial yang didekati dengan sudut pandang resilien yang memfokuskan diri pada adaptability dan survivability. Tulisan ini bersifat kualitatif dengan menggunakan beragam informasi di platform YouTube sebagai objek penulisan yang dianalisis secara deskriptif-kualitatif yang berada dalam rentang waktu Juni 2020–April 2021. Hasil analisis dari tayangan-tayangan tentang kesehatan, ekonomi, dan sosial menunjukkan bahwa kemampuan adaptasi (adapablity) diwujudkan dengan penerimaan realita, mendefinisikan realita, dan fleksibilitas. Selain itu, kemampuan bertahan (survivablity) terlihat dengan mencapai atau mempertahankan level fungsi dan struktur. Tulisan ini diharapkan memberi kontribusi baik terhadap konsep resilien dan aktualisasi resilien, khususnya bidang kesehatan, ekonomi, dan sosial dari tayangan YouTube dimasa Pandemi COVID-19.
Documenting Communications and Communicating Documents: Developing Thesis Online Supervising in Distance Education
Authors: Djoko Rahardjo
Published: January 2022

Supervising master's program theses frequently present difficulties, particularly in higher distance education, where the majority of students live in completely separate locations from their mentors. This condition requires a great deal of time, energy, and money. Additionally, the institution made it difficult to control the process. This study makes a recommendation for resolving this supervising dilemma. To accomplish these goals, an exploratory study is conducted through the design of a learning management system that will be used to supervise processes. The design establishes a synchronous and asynchronous communication system between students and mentors. The outcome is a description of the thesis supervising process's requirements and the thesis supervising model developed in Moodle.
Analisis Implementasi Kebijakan Peningkatan Kualitas Terhadap Permukiman Kumuh (Studi Kasus Di Kecamatan Tungkal Ilir Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Barat)
Authors: Nuarida Nuarida
Published: January 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana kondisi perumahan dan permukiman kumuh di Kecamatan Tungkal Ilir, bagaimana implementasi kebijakan peningkatan kualitas perumahan kumuh dan permukiman kumuh di Kecamatan Tungkal Ilir, apa kendala yang dihadapi Pemerintah Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Barat dalam implementasi peningkatan kualitas perumahan kumuh dan permukiman kumuh di Kecamatan Tungkal Ilir. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif, dengan informan berjumlah 19 orang yang dipilih dengan menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Sedangkan teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis kualitatif dengan tahapan reduksi data, penyajian data, tringulasi, penarikan kesimpulan dan verifikasi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa kondisi Perumahan kumuh dan permukiman kumuh di Kecamatan tungkal Ilir masih tergolong kumuh berat, dengan luas 138.11 Ha. Pemerintah telah melakukan implementasi kebijakan dengan baik namun secara keseluruhan belum optimal, hal ini dapat dilihat dari beberapa variabel seperti Komunikasi, Sumber daya, Disposisi dan Birokrasi. Sehingga dalam pengimplementasiannya terdapat kendala berupa keterbatasan anggaran, kurangnya lahan dan sikap apatis dari masyarakat. Hasil penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan agar (1) Pemerintah lebih meningkatkan usaha dalam mengatasi kekumuhan yang ada (2) Pemerintah benar-benar menjalankan komitmen yang telah di tuangkan dalam RPJMD kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Barat, dan (3) Dalam peningkatan kualitas terhadap perumahan kumuh dan permukiman kumuh di perlukan adanya penguatan sinergi antar instansi terkait bersama masyarakat dalam pengawasan  secara konsisten dan berkala agar tidak menimbulkan maslah baru.
Implementasi Standar Operasional Prosedur Penerimaan Tahanan Baru Di Rumah Tahanan Negara Kelas I Cirebon
Authors: Kurniadi Ilham , Wijayanti Cindana
Published: January 2022

Direktorat Jenderal Pemasyarakatan (DITJENPAS) sebagai pembuat kebijakan telah membuat regulasi untuk mengatur pelaksaan system kerja pada unit pelaksana teknis (UPT) yang disebut dengan Standar Operasional Prosedur (SOP). Artikel ini membahas mengenai implementasi SOP penerimaan tahanan baru yang dilaksanakan di Rumah Tahanan Kelas I Cirebon. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode penelitian deskriptif kualitatif dengan melakukan observasi, wawancara dan meninjau literatur-literatur yang ada. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa implementasi SOP penerimaan tahanan baru di Rutan Kelas I Cirebon lebih banyak mendapatkan kendala eksternal dari instansi lain yang menyebabkan SOP tidak berjalan sesuai dengan aturan. Namun, petugas Rutan terus melakukan berbagai upaya dengan maksimal agar SOP penerimaan tahanan baru dapat dilaksanakan sesuai dengan aturan yang berlaku.
BMSCs and Osteoblast-Engineered ECM Synergetically Promotes Osteogenesis and Angiogenesis in an Ectopic Bone Formation Model
Authors: Zhang Chi , Xia Dongdong , Li Jiajing , Zheng Yanan , Weng Bowen , Mao Haijiao , Mei Jing , Wu Tao , Li Mei , Zhao Jiyuan
Published: January 2022

Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been extensively used in bone tissue engineering because of their potential to differentiate into multiple cells, secrete paracrine factors, and attenuate immune responses. Biomaterials are essential for the residence and activities of BMSCs after implantation in vivo. Recently, extracellular matrix (ECM) modification with a favorable regenerative microenvironment has been demonstrated to be a promising approach for cellular activities and bone regeneration. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of BMSCs combined with cell-engineered ECM scaffolds on osteogenesis and angiogenesis in vivo. The ECM scaffolds were generated by osteoblasts on the small intestinal submucosa (SIS) under treatment with calcium (Ca)-enriched medium and icariin (Ic) after decellularization. In a mouse ectopic bone formation model, the SIS scaffolds were demonstrated to reduce the immune response, and lower the levels of immune cells compared with those in the sham group. Ca/Ic-ECM modification inhibited the degradation of the SIS scaffolds in vivo. The generated Ca/Ic-SIS scaffolds ectopically promoted osteogenesis according to the results of micro-CT and histological staining. Moreover, BMSCs on Ca/Ic-SIS further increased the bone volume percentage (BV/TV) and bone density. Moreover, angiogenesis was also enhanced by the Ca/Ic-SIS scaffolds, resulting in the highest levels of neovascularization according to the data ofCD31 staining. In conclusion, osteoblast-engineered ECM under directional induction is a promising strategy to modify biomaterials for osteogenesis and angiogenesis. BMSCs synergetically improve the properties of ECM constructs, which may contribute to the repair of large bone defects.
Ethical Considerations for Gene Drive: Challenges of Balancing Inclusion, Power and Perspectives
Authors: Kormos Ana , Lanzaro Gregory C. , Bier Ethan , Santos Vanilson , Nazaré Lodney , Pinto João , Aguiar dos Santos Adionilde , James Anthony A.
Published: January 2022

Progress in gene-drive research has stimulated discussion and debate on ethical issues including community engagement and consent, policy and governance, and decision-making involved in development and deployment. Many organizations, academic institutions, foundations, and individual professionals have contributed to ensuring that these issues are considered prior to the application of gene-drive technology. Central topics include co-development of the technology with local stakeholders and communities and reducing asymmetry between developers and end-users. Important questions include with whom to conduct engagement and how to define community acceptance, develop capacity-building activities, and regulate this technology. Experts, academics, and funders have suggested that global frameworks, standards, and guidelines be developed to direct research in answering these important questions. Additionally, it has been suggested that ethical principles or commitments be established to further guide research practices. The challenging and interesting contradiction that we explore here is that the vast majority of these conversations transpire with little or no input from potential end-users or stakeholders who, we contend, should ultimately determine the fate of the technology in their communities. The question arises, whose concerns regarding marginalization, disempowerment, and inequity should be included in discussions and decisions concerning how inequities are perceived and how they may be addressed? At what stage will true co-development occur and how will opinions, perspectives and knowledge held by low-income country stakeholders be applied in determining answers to the questions regarding the ethics being debated on the academic stage? Our opinion is that the time is now.
Prognostic Implication and Oncogenic Role of PNPO in Pan-Cancer
Authors: Zhang Lingyun , Li Xin , Zhang Jinguo , Xu Guoxiong
Published: January 2022

Objective: Pyridoxine 5′-phosphate oxidase (PNPO) is a key enzyme in the metabolism of vitamin B6 and affects the tumorigenesis of ovarian and breast cancers. However, the roles of PNPO in other types of cancer remain unknown.

Methods: The expression of PNPO was interpreted by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and Genotype Tissue-Expression (GTEX) database. Analysis of PNPO genomic alterations and protein expression in human organic tissues was analyzed by the cBioPortal database and human multiple organ tissue arrays. PNPO with drug sensitivity analysis was performed from the CellMiner database. The correlations between PNPO expression and survival outcomes, clinical features, DNA mismatch repair system (MMR), microsatellite instability (MSI), tumor mutation burden (TMB), and immune-associated cell infiltration were analyzed using the TCGA, ESTIMATE algorithm, and TIMER databases. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was applied to elucidate the biological function of PNPO in pan-cancer.

Results: The differential analysis showed that the level of PNPO mRNA expression was upregulated in 21 tumor types compared with normal tissues, which was consistent with its protein expression in most cancer types. The abnormal expression of PNPO could predict the survival outcome of patients with esophageal carcinoma (ESCA), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD), ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma (OV), and uveal melanoma (UVM). Furthermore, the most frequent mutation type of PNPO genomic was amplified. Moreover, the aberrant PNPO expression was related to MMR, MSI, TMB, and drug sensitivity in various types of cancer. The expression of PNPO was related to the infiltration levels of various immune-associated cells in pan-cancer by ESTIMATE algorithm and TIMER database mining.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that PNPO is a potential molecular biomarker for predicting patient prognosis, drug sensitivity, and immunoreaction in pan-cancer.
Alx1 Deficient Mice Recapitulate Craniofacial Phenotype and Reveal Developmental Basis of ALX1-Related Frontonasal Dysplasia
Authors: Iyyanar Paul P. R. , Wu Zhaoming , Lan Yu , Hu Yueh-Chiang , Jiang Rulang
Published: January 2022

Loss of ALX1 function causes the frontonasal dysplasia syndrome FND3, characterized by severe facial clefting and microphthalmia. Whereas the laboratory mouse has been the preeminent animal model for studying developmental mechanisms of human craniofacial birth defects, the roles of ALX1 in mouse frontonasal development have not been well characterized because the only previously reported Alx1 mutant mouse line exhibited acrania due to a genetic background-dependent failure of cranial neural tube closure. Using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, we have generated an Alx1-deletion mouse model that recapitulates the FND craniofacial malformations, including median orofacial clefting and disruption of development of the eyes and alae nasi. In situ hybridization analysis showed that Alx1 is strongly expressed in frontonasal neural crest cells that give rise to periocular and frontonasal mesenchyme. Alx1del/del embryos exhibited increased apoptosis of periocular mesenchyme and decreased expression of ocular developmental regulators Pitx2 and Lmxb1 in the periocular mesenchyme, followed by defective optic stalk morphogenesis. Moreover, Alx1del/del embryos exhibited disruption of frontonasal mesenchyme identity, with loss of expression of Pax7 and concomitant ectopic expression of the jaw mesenchyme regulators Lhx6 and Lhx8 in the developing lateral nasal processes. The function of ALX1 in patterning the frontonasal mesenchyme is partly complemented by ALX4, a paralogous ALX family transcription factor whose loss-of-function causes a milder and distinctive FND. Together, these data uncover previously unknown roles of ALX1 in periocular mesenchyme development and frontonasal mesenchyme patterning, providing novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of ALX1-related FND.
The Emerging Roles of Circular RNAs in the Chemoresistance of Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Wang Man , Yu Fei , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Lei , Chang Wenguang , Wang Kun
Published: January 2022

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer represents a major global health problem due to its aggressive characteristics and poor prognosis. Despite the progress achieved in the development of treatment regimens, the clinical outcomes and therapeutic responses of patients with GI cancer remain unsatisfactory. Chemoresistance arising throughout the clinical intervention is undoubtedly a critical barrier for the successful treatment of GI cancer. However, the precise mechanisms associated with chemoresistance in GI cancer remain unclear. In the past decade, accumulating evidence has indicated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a key role in regulating cancer progression and chemoresistance. Notably, circRNAs function as molecular sponges that sequester microRNAs (miRNAs) and/or proteins, and thus indirectly control the expression of specific genes, which eventually promote or suppress drug resistance in GI cancer. Therefore, circRNAs may represent potential therapeutic targets for overcoming drug resistance in patients with GI cancer. This review comprehensively summarizes the regulatory roles of circRNAs in the development of chemoresistance in different GI cancers, including colorectal cancer, gastric cancer and esophageal cancer, as well as deciphers the underlying mechanisms and key molecules involved. Increasing knowledge of the important functions of circRNAs underlying drug resistance will provide new opportunities for developing efficacious therapeutic strategies against GI cancer.
Removal of the Micropollutants Propranolol Hydrochloride and 2-Naphthol From Water by Pyridine-Functionalized Polymers
Authors: Zheng Qixuan , Unruh Daniel K. , Hutchins Kristin M.
Published: January 2022

The number and concentration of micropollutants in aqueous environments are increasing. Two such micropollutants include the pharmaceutical, propranolol hydrochloride, and dye intermediate, 2-naphthol. Here, we describe the synthesis of both linear and crosslinked pyridine-functionalized copolymers that bind and remove propranolol hydrochloride and 2-naphthol from water solutions. Propranolol hydrochloride and 2-naphthol both contain hydrogen-bond-donor groups, and the pyridine moiety on the polymer acts as a hydrogen-bond acceptor to facilitate removal. Copolymers with different amounts of pyridine comonomer are synthesized, and as the amount of the pyridine comonomer is increased, the ability of the polymer to bind and remove the contaminant also increases. The concentrations of propranolol hydrochloride and 2-naphthol decreased by approximately 20–40% and 60–88%, respectively, depending on the polymer type that is used in the binding experiment. A control polymer was synthesized by using styrene in place of the pyridine monomer. In analogous binding experiments, the styrene polymer decreases the concentration of propranolol hydrochloride by 2% and 2-naphthol by 26%. Thus, the binding effectiveness is significantly reduced when the hydrogen-bond-acceptor group is not present on the polymer. We also show that the best performing crosslinked pyridine-functionalized polymer is reusable. Overall, these polymer adsorbents demonstrate the potential for removal of micropollutants from water.
Adsorption of Sulfonamides in Aqueous Solution on Reusable Coconut-Shell Biochar Modified by Alkaline Activation and Magnetization
Authors: Sun Ying , Zheng Lili , Zheng Xiaoyan , Xiao Dao , Yang Yang , Zhang Zhengke , Ai Binling , Sheng Zhanwu
Published: January 2022

Biochar is a low-cost adsorbent for sorptive removal of antibiotics from wastewater, but the adsorption efficiency needs to be improved. In this study, coconut-shell biochar was activated with KOH to improve the adsorption efficiency and magnetically modified with FeCl3 to enable recycling. The amount of KOH and the concentration of FeCl3 were optimized to reduce the pollution and production cost. The KOH-activated and FeCl3-magnetized biochar gave good sulfonamide antibiotic (SA) removal. The maximum adsorption capacities for sulfadiazine, sulfamethazine and sulfamethoxazole were 294.12, 400.00 and 454.55 mg g−1, respectively, i.e., five to seven times higher than those achieved with raw biochar. More than 80% of the adsorption capacity was retained after three consecutive adsorption-desorption cycles. A combination of scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared and Raman spectroscopies, and magnetic hysteresis analysis showed that KOH activation increased the specific surface area, porosity, and number of oxygen-rich functional groups. Iron oxide particles, which were formed by FeCl3 magnetization, covered the biochar surface. The SAs were adsorbed on the modified biochar via hydrogen bonds between SA molecules and -OH/-COOH groups in the biochar. Investigation of the adsorption kinetics and isotherms showed that the adsorption process follows a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and a monolayer adsorption mechanism. The adsorption capacity at low pH was relatively high because of a combination of π+-π electron-donor-acceptor, charge-assisted hydrogen-bonding, electrostatic, and Lewis acid-base interactions, pore filling, van der Waals forces and hydrophobic interactions. The results of this study show that magnetically modified biochar has potential applications as an effective, recyclable adsorbent for antibiotic removal during wastewater treatment.
A New Method to Overcome Carboxyamide Formation During AFEX Pretreatment of Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Dong Hui , Sousa Leonardo da Costa , Ubanwa Bryan , Jones A. Daniel , Balan Venkatesh
Published: January 2022

Lignin-carbohydrate complexes (LCCs) in the plant cell wall are responsible for providing resistance against biomass-degrading enzymes produced by microorganisms. Four major types of lignin-carbohydrate bonds are reported in the literature, namely, benzyl ethers, benzyl esters, phenyl glycosides, and acetyl ester linkages. Ester’s linkages in the plant cell wall are labile to alkaline pretreatments, such as ammonia fiber expansion (AFEX), which uses liquid or gaseous ammonia to cleave those linkages in the plant cell wall and reduce biomass recalcitrance. Two competing reactions, notably hydrolysis and ammonolysis, take place during AFEX pretreatment process, producing different aliphatic and aromatic acids, as well as their amide counterparts. AFEX pretreated grasses and agricultural residues are known to increase conversion of biomass to sugars by four- to five-fold when subjected to commercial enzyme hydrolysis, yielding a sustainable feedstock for producing biofuels, biomaterials, and animal feed. Animal feed trials on dairy cows have demonstrated a 27% increase in milk production when compared to a control feedstock. However, the presence of carboxamides in feedstocks could promote neurotoxicity in animals if consumed beyond a certain concentration. Thus, there is the need to overcome regulatory hurdles associated with commercializing AFEX pretreated biomass as animal feed in the United States. This manuscript demonstrates a modified pretreatment for increasing the digestibility of industrial byproducts such as Brewer’s spent grains (BSG) and high-fiber meal (HFM) produced from BSG and dry distillers grains with soluble (DDGS), while avoiding the production of carboxamides. The three industrial byproducts were first treated with calculated amounts of alkali such as NaOH, Ca(OH)2, or KOH followed by AFEX pretreatment. We found that 4% alkali was able to de-esterify BSG and DDGS more efficiently than using 2% alkali at both 10 and 20% solids loading. AFEX pretreatment of de-esterified BSG, HFM, and DDGS produced twofold higher glucan conversion than respective untreated biomass. This new discovery can help overcome potential regulatory issues associated with the presence of carboxamides in ammonia-pretreated animal feeds and is expected to benefit several farmers around the world.
Hole Transport Layer Free Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes With High-Brightness and Air-Stability Based on Solution-Processed CsPbBr3-Cs4PbBr6 Composites Films
Authors: Yuan Fang , Zhang Min , Zhu Chunrong , Liu Xiaoyun , Zhao Chenjing , Dai Jinfei , Dong Hua , Jiao Bo , Lan Xuguang , Wu Zhaoxin
Published: January 2022

Recently, perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have drew widespread attention due to their high efficiencies. However, because of the sensitivity to moisture and oxygen, perovskite luminescent layers are usually prepared in high-purity nitrogen environment, which increases the cost and process complexity of device preparation and seriously hindrances its commercialization of PeLED in lighting and display application. Herein, dual-phase all-inorganic composite CsPbBr3-Cs4PbBr6 films are fabricated from CsBr-rich perovskite solutions by a simple one-step spin-coating method in the air with high humidity. Compared with the pure CsPbBr3 film, the composite CsPbBr3-Cs4PbBr6 film has much stronger photoluminescence emission and longer fluorescence lifetime, accompanied by increased photoluminescence quantum yield (33%). As a result, we obtained green PeLED devices without hole transport layer exhibiting a maximum brightness of 72,082 cd/m2 and a maximum external quantum efficiency of about 2.45%, respectively. More importantly, the champion device shows excellent stability with operational half-lifetime exceeding 1,000 min under continuous operation in the air. The dual-phase all-inorganic composite CsPbBr3-Cs4PbBr6 film shows attractive prospect for advanced light emission applications.
Assessment of Phasic Changes of Vascular Size by Automated Edge Tracking-State of the Art and Clinical Perspectives
Authors: Mesin Luca , Albani Stefano , Policastro Piero , Pasquero Paolo , Porta Massimo , Melchiorri Chiara , Leonardi Gianluca , Albera Carlo , Scacciatella Paolo , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Stolfo Davide , Grillo Andrea , Fabris Bruno , Bini Roberto , Giannoni Alberto , Pepe Antonio , Ermini Leonardo , Seddone Stefano , Sinagra Gianfranco , Antonini-Canterin Francesco , Roatta Silvestro
Published: January 2022

Assessment of vascular size and of its phasic changes by ultrasound is important for the management of many clinical conditions. For example, a dilated and stiff inferior vena cava reflects increased intravascular volume and identifies patients with heart failure at greater risk of an early death. However, lack of standardization and sub-optimal intra- and inter- operator reproducibility limit the use of these techniques. To overcome these limitations, we developed two image-processing algorithms that quantify phasic vascular deformation by tracking wall movements, either in long or in short axis. Prospective studies will verify the clinical applicability and utility of these methods in different settings, vessels and medical conditions.
Extensional Tectonics and Basement Uplift of the Fansipan and Tule Mountain Ranges in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Dinh Thi-Hue , Chan Yu-Chang , Chen Chih-Tung
Published: January 2022

The Fansipan and Tule mountain ranges, northern Vietnam, are regions with high elevations and are adjacent to the Red River Fault, which is an important structure that is related to the India-Eurasia collision. How mountain elevations are maintained today under a humid subtropical climate is important for improving the knowledge of the tectonic deformations in northern Vietnam and may have broader implications for the crustal dynamics of circum-Tibetan regions. We therefore utilized observations from field and digital elevation model (DEM) data and geomorphic analyses to constrain the active fault systems that have likely contributed to the uplift of mountain ranges. Our observations from DEM and field data indicate potential active normal and strike-slip faults such as the Phong Tho-Nam Pia Fault, Tule Fault, and Nghia Lo Fault. In addition to these observations, the results from geomorphic indices, which include both the stream-length gradient index (SL) and normalized steepness index (ksn), present high values for the footwalls of the inferred normal faults and low values for the hanging walls. Most of the identified knickpoints are related to the locations of mapped faults. Correlations of these data indicate that recent movements of the Fansipan and Tule mountain ranges are dominated by strike-slip and normal faulting under a NE-SW minimum extensional regime. We therefore propose that extensional tectonics associated with isostatic rebound likely plays a role in maintaining mountain elevations over long periods despite the continuous weathering and erosion present in monsoon-affected areas.
High-Resolution Flood Simulation in Urban Areas Through the Application of Remote Sensing and Crowdsourcing Technologies
Authors: Su Yuan-Fong , Lin Yan-Ting , Jang Jiun-Huei , Han Jen-Yu
Published: January 2022

High-resolution flood simulation considering the influence of high buildings and fundamental facilities is important for flood risk assessment in urban areas. However, it is also a challenging task due to the difficulties in acquiring detailed topography and monitoring data for model construction and validation. In this study, a high-resolution flood simulation with a grid size of 0.5 m is realized through the use of detailed topography obtained by an unmanned aerial vehicle and real-time flood information acquired from social media. To discover the influence of terrain resolution on flood simulations, the high-resolution simulation results are compared with those with coarser grid resolutions (5, 10, and 20 m) for a flash flood event in Taiwan. In the case with higher grid resolution, the simulation results are in better agreement with the photos from social media in terms of flood extent, depth, and occurrence time. The flood simulation with coarse resolution (>5 m) tends to overestimate the flood duration on roads and provide bias information to decision-makers in the assessment of traffic impact and economic loss.
The Process of Tectonic Inversion and Disintegration in the Dasanjiang Unified Basin, Northeast China: Constraint From Low-Temperature Thermochronology
Authors: Zhang Yunpeng , Tang Yan , Wang Shan , Guo Wang , Han Wei , Ma Shangwei , He Zhengyang , Ren Jianye
Published: January 2022

The Dasanjiang basin group in Northeast China contains more than ten Mesozoic–Cenozoic sedimentary basins. Much evidence shows that they were a unified large-scale depression lacustrine basin in the Early Cretaceous; however, destruction processes and mechanisms after the formation of the unified lacustrine basin are some of the key issues restricting basic research and oil and gas exploration in the Dasanjiang area. In this study, we carried out low-temperature thermochronology and thermal history inversion on samples from the main basins in the Dasanjiang area to finely restore the destruction process of the unified basin. The results show that since the Early Cretaceous, the Dasanjiang area has experienced three major positive tectonic inversions: 100 Ma~90 Ma, 73 Ma~40 Ma, and 23 Ma~5 Ma. The unified basin was destroyed by compression and uplift and gradually disintegrated. The basin gradually changed from initial unified evolution to differential evolution and finally formed the isolated appearance of each basin. The aforementioned three-stage positive tectonic inversion time limits basically corresponded to the changing periods in the movement direction, subduction angle, and movement speed of the paleo–Pacific Ocean plate. It is believed that the movement and reorganization events of the plates on the Pacific side dominated the formation, destruction, and disintegration of the Dasanjiang prototype basin, which was the main dynamic mechanism of the tectonic evolution of the Mesozoic and Cenozoic basins in the study area and Northeast China.
A Fault Signal Processing Method Based on An Improved Prony Algorithm
Authors: Yang Nan , Lu Yanming , Zhang Jianmei , Zhang Zhenzhen , Ding Li , Yang Cong , Dong Zhengqiang , Liu Songkai , Xiong Wei , Zhu Binxin , Zhang Lei , Huang Yuehua , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2022

The fault of power systems introduces a severe challenge in terms of fault recording analysis, and the traditional Prony method cannot perform satisfactorily in the process of signal recordings fitting caused by faults. Therefore, an improved adaptive Prony algorithm is proposed in this article to study the characteristics of fault recordings. Specifically, the search step size is taken as an adaptive variable, and the mean square relative fitting error (MSRFE) is set as the criterion. Then, a large step is employed to rapidly determine an approximate segmentation point in the initial stage of the searching process, and its horizon is gradually reduced to establish an accurate subsegment point. Finally, the Prony algorithm is deployed to analyze the subsegment fitting original signal. The proposed approach has been simulated on an assumed fault signal, and the results validate the accuracy and efficiency of the method.
Age and Appearance Shape Behavioral Responses of Phasmids in a Dynamic Environment
Authors: Pohl Sebastian , Bungum Haaken Z. , Lee Kenneth E. M. , Sani Mohamad Azlin Bin , Poh Yan H. , Wahab Rodzay bin Hj Abd , Norma-Rashid Y. , Tan Eunice J.
Published: January 2022

Although morphological adaptations leading to crypsis or mimicry have been studied extensively, their interaction with particular behaviors to avoid detection or recognition is understudied. Yet animal behaviors interact with morphology to reduce detection risk, and the level of protection conferred likely changes according to the surrounding environment. Apart from providing a locational cue for predators, prey motion can also serve as concealing behavior in a dynamic environment to prevent detection by potential predators or prey. Phasmids are conventionally known to rely on their adaptive resemblance to plant parts for protection, and this resemblance may vary across life stages and species. However, little is known about how their behaviors interact with their appearance and their environment. We investigated two species of phasmids with varying morphology and color patterns at different ontogenetic stages and examined their behavioral responses to a wind stimulus as a proxy for a dynamic environment. While adult behaviors were mostly species-specific, behavioral responses of nymphs varied with appearance and environmental condition. Display of different behaviors classified as revealing was positively correlated, while the display of concealing behaviors, except for swaying, was mostly negatively correlated with other behaviors. Exhibition of specific behaviors varied with appearance and environmental condition, suggesting that these behavioral responses could help reduce detection or recognition cues. We discuss the differences in behavioral responses in the context of how the behaviors could reveal or conceal the phasmids from potential predators. Our results provide a novel investigation into adaptive resemblance strategies of phasmids through the interaction of behavior and morphology, and highlight the importance of considering the effects of dynamic environments on sending and receiving cues.
Murine CXCR3+CXCR6+γδT Cells Reside in the Liver and Provide Protection Against HBV Infection
Authors: Wang Yanan , Guan Yun , Hu Yuan , Li Yan , Lu Nan , Zhang Cai
Published: January 2022

Gamma delta (γδ) T cells play a key role in the innate immune response and serve as the first line of defense against infection and tumors. These cells are defined as tissue-resident lymphocytes in skin, lung, and intestinal mucosa. They are also relatively abundant in the liver; however, little is known about the residency of hepatic γδT cells. By comparing the phenotype of murine γδT cells in liver, spleen, thymus, and small intestine, a CXCR3+CXCR6+ γδT-cell subset with tissue-resident characteristics was found in liver tissue from embryos through adults. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells mediated retention of CXCR3+CXCR6+ γδT cells through the interactions between CXCR3 and CXCR6 and their chemokines. During acute HBV infection, CXCR3+CXCR6+ γδT cells produced high levels of IFN-γ and adoptive transfer of CXCR3+CXCR6+ γδT cells into acute HBV-infected TCRδ−/− mice leading to lower HBsAg and HBeAg expression. It is suggested that liver resident CXCR3+CXCR6+ γδT cells play a protective role during acute HBV infection. Strategies aimed at expanding and activating liver resident CXCR3+CXCR6+ γδT cells both in vivo or in vitro have great prospects for use in immunotherapy that specifically targets acute HBV infection.
Clonal Hematopoiesis and Liquid Biopsy in Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Croitoru Vlad M. , Cazacu Irina M. , Popescu Ionut , Paul Doru , Dima Simona Olimpia , Croitoru Adina Emilia , Tanase Alina Daniela
Published: January 2022

The use of blood liquid biopsy is increasingly being incorporated into the clinical setting of gastrointestinal cancers care. Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) occurs naturally as a result of the accumulation of somatic mutations and the clonal proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells with normal aging. The identification of CH-mutations has been described as a source of biological noise in blood liquid biopsy. Incorrect interpretation of CH events as cancer related can have a direct impact on cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review summarizes the current understanding of CH as a form of biological noise in blood liquid biopsy and the reported clinical significance of CH in patients with GI cancers.