bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reinforcement mechanism analysis of lattice beam and prestressed anchor rod system for loess slope
Authors: Liu Yang , Han Dongdong , Liu Nina , Wang Wentao
Published: May 2023

Lattice beam and prestressed anchor rod are used to enhance stability and prevent failure of soil or rock slopes. In this study, a model of Lattice beam and prestressed anchor rod (LBPAR) system was designed with reinforcement mechanisms and a model test was constructed with a circular slip surface of a loess slope. First, interaction between the loess slope and the LBPAR system was investigated by an LBPAR system analysis model. Stability of sliding mass from the sliding bed with an arc-shaped sliding surface was then studied by an experimental model designed. Finally, internal force distribution of lattice beams in the LBPAR system was investigated by using a large-scale physical model test. The results were compared to those calculated using the reverse beam method, indicating that the LBPAR system strengthened the sliding mass in space and improved the overall stability of the loess slope. With vertical loading, the axial tensile stress of the main anchor rod increases continuously. The bending area of the anchor rod was concentrated within 2 m of the sliding surface. And the maximum bending moment reaches 70 N·m. The sliding mass was subject to vertical load pressure, lattice beams’ pressure, and dead weight in the meantime and the maximum earth pressure value is near the node of the lattice beams. It is proved that such a method excels in the engineering design of loess landslides, which has promising applications in the future.
Implications of Nd isotopic mapping for crustal composition and metallogenesis in the Sanjiang orogenic belt (SW China)
Authors: Yuan Lingling , Chai Peng , Hou Zengqian , Zheng Yuanchuan , Quan Haihui
Published: May 2023

The Sanjiang orogenic belt, located in southwestern China and the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, includes a variety of economically important metal deposits. Previous studies have focused on Lu-Hf isotopic mapping to suggest its lithospheric architecture and mineralization. In this study, we provide the results of Nd isotopic mapping and compare them with the results of Hf isotopic mapping based on the similarity of Sm-Nd and Lu-Hf isotope systems, which indicate three juvenile domains with high εNd(t) and young Nd model ages within the Eastern Qiangtang-Simao terrane, while presenting negative εNd(t) values over the entire horizon. The very negative εNd(t) and old Nd model ages found in the Tengchong-Baoshan terrane and Changning-Menglian suture suggest that these terranes are old and might be reworked. The Nd isotopic mapping of the Sanjiang orogenic belt also suggests a relationship between different lithospheric architectures and the locations of distinct ore deposits. Porphyry-skarn Cu–Mo–(Au) deposits occur in the juvenile crust, which has relatively high εNd(t) (−3.3–5.1) and young TDMages, whereas skarn and hydrothermal vein-type W–Sn deposits and Pb‒Zn‒Cu‒Ag deposits are located in the low-εNd(t) area.
Classification, identification, and reservoir characteristics of intermediate mafic lava flows: a case study in Dongling area, Songliao Basin
Authors: Yue Qingyou , Wang Baozhu , Ren Xianjun , Cang Zhengyi , Han Jiaoyan , Li Cunlei , Zhao Ranlei , Wang Haidong
Published: May 2023

Intermediate mafic lava is a special oil and gas reservoir. While its internal structure is an important factor affecting the reservoir properties, the identification of facies and understanding of the relationship between facies architecture and reservoir are limited. This study evaluated the intermediate mafic lava flows of the Yingcheng Formation in the Dongling area of Songliao Basin by analyzing drilling cores, corresponding thin sections, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, as well as well-logging and seismic attributes. We also performed helium gas experiments and high-pressure mercury intrusion (HPMI) analysis to assess the physical properties and pore structure of the reservoir, respectively. The results showed that intermediate mafic lava flows develop tabular lava flow, compound lava flow, and hyaloclastite. Three facies showed present diverse well-logging and seismic responses. The intermediate mafic lava facies architecture was divided into crater-proximal facies (CF-PF), medial facies (MF), and distal facies (DF), which were characterized by their vesicles and joints and could be identified through their seismic attributes. The reservoir spaces including vesicles, amygdale inner pores, joint fissures, and dissolution pores predominantly showed oil and gas accumulation. The results of the tests of the reservoir’s physical properties showed that the reservoir quality was best in the CF-PF, which is the main target of oil and gas exploration.
The use of Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL) in teachers’ training: a scoping review
Authors: Ragni Benedetta , Toto Giusi Antonia , di Furia Marco , Lavanga Andreana , Limone Pierpaolo
Published: May 2023

Taking care of teachers’ competencies is essential to determine a satisfactory level of quality in teaching, with a crucial impact on the proper functioning of educational services. In order to be effective, this training must consider the most recent developments in the field of technology-enhanced learning, such as Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL). Although research in the educational field has shown that DGBL enhances learning processes, promoting learning by doing and cooperative learning as well, with all their positive effects, there is still a paucity of studies on the subject; hence, the intrinsic reason for the present investigation. This review aims to fill this gap, analyzing studies that explore DGBL for teacher training and/or teacher attitude toward using DGBL in their professional activity. We searched the following bibliographic databases: Scopus, ERIC, and Web of Science. After an accurate screening, 20 papers have been selected and included. Main results returned a clear framework of what the current literature presents as effective DGBL training for teachers and pre-service teachers and of facilitators and barriers that impact teachers’ attitudes toward the use of DGBL at school.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors in first-line therapies of metastatic or early triple-negative breast cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Liang Xueyan , Chen Xiaoyu , Li Huijuan , Li Yan
Published: May 2023

Background

The optimal first-line immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment strategy for metastatic or early triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has not yet been determined as a result of various randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of ICIs in patients with metastatic or early TNBC.

Methods

RCTs comparing the efficacy and safety of ICIs in patients with TNBC were included in the studies. Based on PRISMA guidelines, we estimated pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) using random-effects models of Bayesian network meta-analysis. Primary outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes included pathologic complete response rate (pCR), grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events (trAEs), immune-related adverse events (irAEs), and grade ≥ 3 irAEs.

Results

The criteria for eligibility were met by a total of eight RCTs involving 4,589 patients with TNBC. When ICIs were used in patients without programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) selection, there was a trend toward improved PFS, OS, and pCR, without significant differences. Pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy is superior to other treatment regimens in terms of survival for TNBC patients based on Bayesian ranking profiles. Subgroup analysis by PD-L1 positive population indicated similar results, and atezolizumab plus chemotherapy provided better survival outcomes. Among grade ≥ 3 trAEs and any grade irAEs, there was no statistically significant difference among different ICI agents. The combination of ICIs with chemotherapy was associated with a higher incidence of grade ≥ 3 irAEs. Based on rank probability, the ICI plus chemotherapy group was more likely to be associated with grade ≥ 3 trAEs, any grade irAEs, and grade ≥ 3 irAEs. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were the most frequent irAEs in patients receiving ICI.

Conclusions

ICI regimens had relatively greater efficacy and safety profile. Pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy and atezolizumab plus chemotherapy seem to be superior first-line treatments for intention-to-treat and PD-L1-positive TNBC patients, respectively. It may be useful for making clinical decisions to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different ICIs based on our study.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022354643.
Predicting skip metastasis in lateral lymph nodes of papillary thyroid carcinoma based on clinical and ultrasound features
Authors: Zhao Min , Shi Xinyu , Zou Ziran , Wen Runze , Lu Yixing , Li Jihui , Cao Jinming , Zhang Bin
Published: May 2023

Background

Skip metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), defined as lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) without the involvement of central lymph node metastasis (CLNM), is generally unpredictable. Our study aimed to develop a model to predict skip metastasis by using clinicopathological and ultrasound factors of PTC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy and central lymph node dissection (CLND) plus lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) between January 2019 and December 2021 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate analyses assessed the clinical and ultrasound risk factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to find the optimal cut-off values for age and dominant nodule diameter. Multivariate logistic regression analysis results were used to construct a nomogram and were validated internally.

Results

In all patients, the skip metastasis rate was 15.4% (41/267). Skip metastasis was more frequently found in patients with a tumour size ≤10 mm (OR 0.439; P = 0.033), upper tumour location (OR 3.050; P=0.006) and fewer CLNDs (OR 0.870; P = 0.005). After analysing the clinical and ultrasound characteristics of the tumour, five factors were ultimately associated with lateral lymph node skip metastasis and were used to construct the model. These factors were an age >40 years, tumour diameter <9.1 mm, upper tumour location, non-smooth margin and extrathyroidal extension. The internally evaluated calibration curves indicated an excellent correlation between the projected and actual skip metastasis probability. The nomogram performed well in discrimination, with a concordance index of 0.797 (95% CI, 0.726 to 0.867).

Conclusions

This study screened for predictors of skip metastasis in PTC and established a nomogram that effectively predicted the risk of potential skip metastasis in patients preoperatively. The method can predict and distinguish skip metastases in PTC in a simple and inexpensive manner, and it may have future therapeutic utility.
Theoretical analysis of mixed open-circuit potential for high temperature electrochemical cells electrodes
Authors: Cammarata A. , Mastropasqua L.
Published: May 2023

The Nernst equilibrium potential calculates the theoretical OCV, which estimates the best performance achievable by an electrochemical cell. When multiple semi-reactions (or multiple ionic species) are active in one of the electrodes, the calculation of the theoretical OCV is not straightforward, since different Nernst potentials are associated to each semi-reaction. In this paper, analytical equations for calculation of the theoretical OCV are developed, using the mixed potential theory. The case of H2 and CO co-oxidation (or H2O and CO2 co-reduction) in solid oxide cells is used as a reference case, but similar conclusions can be drawn for other equivalent cases. OCV data from literature are used to calibrate and validate the model. The relative reaction rate of H2 and CO semi-reactions is estimated within the calibration process, and the result is in line with assumptions and suggestions given by other authors. The validation procedure shows predicted OCV values in line with experimental literature data, except for mixtures with relatively large CH4 concentration (e.g., 8%), for which the OCV is significantly underestimated. This is expected when thermochemical reactions, in parallel to electrochemical reactions occur, since the additional H2 produced by internal steam methane reforming is not accounted within the local mixed potential model. A fuel cell polarization model is developed based on the results from the calibration procedure, and it is used to predict the polarization behavior of an SOFC fed with a H2-H2O-CO-CO2 fuel mixture. It is found that either H2 or CO may be reduced rather than oxidized via an equivalent electrochemical water-gas-shift reaction.
Custodians of carbon: creating a circular carbon economy
Authors: Newman Alex J. K. , Dowson George R. M. , Platt Edward G. , Handford-Styring Hannah J. , Styring Peter
Published: May 2023

To stand a chance of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions and in the implementation of UN Sustainable Development Goals society must move away from being consumers of carbon to being custodians. While SDG 7 focuses on clean energy, chemicals and materials are themselves energy, energy stored in chemical bonds. Behavioural change is needed to appreciate the societal value of carbon and to recycle carbon already present in the environment, so extracting more fossil carbon from the Earth is avoided. Society needs to develop new technologies such as carbon capture and utilisation to create value-added products from what is otherwise waste. To do this effectively, the social impact of change must be considered, its effect on the environment, and whether this transition makes economic sense. If there is social injustice, then new approaches are needed. If there is no environmental benefit, then interventions must be reconsidered. This becomes an iterative process seeking to achieve the best-balanced scenarios. As new technologies develop, interventions by governments providing aid to subsidise and accelerate new technologies will be needed. Care must be taken to ensure fiduciary duty is applied so the best possible use of public money is delivered. In this paper a systems approach is taken in developing a new circular carbon economy, where models are developed to include lifecycle, techno-economic, and social impact assessment studies into any policy development and commercialisation plans. It is vitally important to develop this methodological thinking early in that planning phase to avoid serious errors that could be costly financially, socially and environmentally. In early stages of development, a coarse-grained approach is required focusing on hotspot analysis. Once hotspots have been identified, finer grained analysis can be undertaken to develop rational approaches to process and policy development. It is vitally important that all disciplines are included within the development of such models, relying not only on engineers and scientists, but also social scientists, psychologists and financial experts. If such an approach is developed now, there is a good chance of identifying acceptable pathways to achieving sustainable development goals. This paper addresses gaps in the CO2 utilisation where social and fiscal issues are often overlooked.
Coupled dynamic characteristics of 10 MW semi-submersible offshore wind turbine under typical operation, extreme, and fault conditions
Authors: Li Yu , Han Dongdong , Wang Bin , Wang Wenhua , Li Xin , Su Xiaohui
Published: May 2023

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) 10 MW wind turbine is selected as the object of this study. The braceless semi-submersible platform for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory 5 MW wind turbine is upscaled to support the DTU 10 MW wind turbine. The servo control system of the 10 MW semi-submersible wind turbine is redesigned. Furthermore, torque control is performed below the rated wind speed to achieve maximum power capture, and the gain scheduling proportional integral (GSPI) control method is performed above the rated wind speed to realize the design of the variable propeller control system. This ensures the safe operation of the floating wind turbine above the rated wind speed. The reliability of the designed servo control system is verified by a full coupling dynamic response analysis with the designed servo control system, aerodynamics, and hydrodynamics under the combined action of wind and waves. The coupled dynamic characteristics of the 10 MW semi-submersible wind turbine under different conditions are analyzed, including operational, extreme, and fault situations. The results show that the servo control system effectively controls the motion response of a 10 MW floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT). Turbulent wind has an obvious excitation effect on the surge and pitch of the FOWT, whereas the heave motion is primarily excited by wave loads. Different fault conditions can cause different motion and structural responses. Furthermore, the tower top bending moment is greatly affected by the imbalance of aerodynamic load, and the surge, pitch motion, tower base bending moment, and mooring tension of the FOWT are affected by different fault conditions to varying degrees. In addition, the heave motion is generally barely affected by the fault conditions.
A novel multilayer composite structure based battery thermal management system
Authors: Kang Chuanzhi , Yang Jiaming , Yuan Xiaolu , Qiu Chenghui , Cai Yufei
Published: May 2023

The battery thermal management system (BTMS) utilizing phase change materials (PCM) has shown promising performance in high heat flux heat dissipation. However, conventional PCM systems do not fully exploit the latent thermal properties of paraffin wax to enhance battery cooling efficiency. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel multilayer composite material for BTMS, aiming to improve the thermal performance of the battery and overcome the low thermal conductivity of paraffin wax. The preparation process involves positioning the battery at the center of a triangular container, melting paraffin wax and pouring it into a 100 mm high container to form a 20 mm paraffin layer, placing copper foils and graphite layers on the paraffin surface, and repeating this step once. Finally, pour the 40 mm paraffin wax into the container, resulting in a sandwich-like structure with two layers of graphite. The cooling performance of the multilayer composite structure was experimentally tested at different ambient temperatures (15°C and 20°C) and discharge rates, and compared with a conventional BTMS based on pure paraffin wax. The results demonstrate that the multilayer composite structure exhibits superior heat dissipation compared to the pure paraffin structure, significantly reducing battery temperature rise, particularly at higher discharge rates. At an ambient temperature of 20°C and a discharge rate of 5°C, the battery temperature rise is only 14.97°C, with a remarkable cooling effect of 32.6%. Moreover, optimization of the number and thickness of graphite layers in the composite structure reveals that the 6-layer graphite structure outperforms the 2-layer, 4-layer, 8-layer, and 10-layer graphite structures. Additionally, a relatively lower battery surface temperature is observed with a graphite thickness of 0.5 mm on the basis of the 6-layer graphite structure. These findings indicate that the proposed novel layout structure exhibits excellent thermal performance, effectively addressing the low thermal conductivity limitation of traditional paraffin cooling systems, and providing a new approach for thermal management of lithium batteries.
Switching control strategy for an energy storage system based on multi-level logic judgment
Authors: Donglei Sun , Yi Sun , Yuanyuan Sun , Rui Liu , Xian Wang , Yao Wang
Published: May 2023

Energy storage is a new, flexibly adjusting resource with prospects for broad application in power systems with high proportions of renewable energy integration. However, energy storage systems have spare capacity under stable working conditions and may be idle for some periods. These actions are primarily selected for peak shaving and valley filling, frequency regulation, and voltage regulation as the only control target; thus, energy storage cannot be used effectively, which weakens the effect of energy storage on grid support. To improve the utilization rate and economic benefits of the energy storage system and enhance the support performance of energy storage for the safe operation of the power grid, this article proposes a switching control strategy for an energy storage system based on multi-layer logic judgment to maximize energy storage benefits and ensure safe and stable power grid operation. First, this study analyzed the potential multi-ancillary service operation requirements of the energy storage system, combined with the auxiliary compensation benefits of the energy storage power station. Using this information, the study proposed a comprehensive index that considers the economy of the energy storage system and the stable operation of the power grid to support the evaluation needs of energy storage control. Based on this, the study then pre-set multi-layer judgment logic for the operation control of the energy storage system. A multi-objective judgment and smooth switching strategy for the coordinated operation of the energy storage system was proposed based on the typical operating conditions of the energy storage system participating in the grid peak shaving and valley filling, frequency regulation, and voltage regulation. This switching control method effectively utilized the idle capacity of the energy storage system and improved the energy storage system’s support effect on the power grid. Through the improved energy storage control model based on MATLAB/Simulink, this study also verified the effectiveness of the proposed smooth switching strategy of the energy storage system.
Increasing precipitation promoted vegetation growth in the Mongolian Plateau during 2001–2018
Authors: Li Chuanhua , Li Liangliang , Wu Xiaodong , Tsunekawa Atsushi , Wei Yufei , Liu Yunfan , Peng Lixiao , Chen Jiahao , Bai Keyu
Published: May 2023

Taking the Mongolian Plateau as the research area, this paper studied the vegetation growth from 2001 to 2018. We quantified the vegetation growth changes based on changes in gross primary productivity (GPP) and leaf area index (LAI) and their relationships to climate variables using correlation analysis, partial correlation analysis and multiple correlation analysis. The results showed that from 2001 to 2018 both GPP and LAI showed an increasing trend, with great heterogeneities among different areas and land cover types. The largest increase of GPP and LAI occurred in the northeast plateau with the land cover types of forest and cropland. The main driving factor of vegetation growth was precipitation, while temperature was significantly negatively correlated with vegetation growth. The CO2 concentration had a significant impact on the GPP in farmland, and the increase of solar radiation had a significant impact on tundra. Our study highlights the importance of precipitation in regulating vegetation growth in the Mongolian Plateau, challenging the prevailing views that the temperature dominates the vegetation growth in the northern ecosystems.
Chemical composition, sources and evolution of wintertime inorganic and organic aerosols in urban Shanghai, China
Authors: Qian Yijie , Cai Dongmei , Zhang Miaomiao , Huang Xiaojuan , Huo Juntao , Duan Yusen , Cheng Tiantao
Published: May 2023

China experienced severe haze pollution in the past decades. However, systematic characterization of atmospheric fine particles with advanced measurement techniques has been very scarce in Shanghai, which is the largest megacity in China. Herein, we present the characterization of non-refractory submicron aerosol (NR-PM1) in urban Shanghai during winter 2017 by applying an Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (ACSM, Aerodyne Research Inc.). The NR-PM1 is predominated by organics (43%), followed by nitrate (29%), sulfate (18%), ammonium (7%), and chloride (3%). Regarding the organic aerosol (OA) factors, three organic aerosol factors were identified and classified as hydrocarbon-like organic aerosol (HOA), less-oxygenated organic aerosol (LO-OOA), and more-oxygenated organic aerosol (MO-OOA), which contributed 32%, 22%, and 46% to total organic aerosol respectively. The NR-PM1 composition exhibited an increase in secondary inorganic aerosol (SIA) (sulfate, nitrate and ammonium) contribution from clean episodes (49%) to pollution episodes (59%), while organic aerosol contribution decreased accordingly from 48% to 39%. The strong increase of sulfate in high-relative humidity (RH) pollution episodes indicated that aqueous-phase oxidation of SO2 could be an important formation process for sulfate during particulate air pollution period. The contribution of nitrate was elevated from 25% during clean episodes to 32% during polluted episodes, likely owing to the increase of relative humidity which facilitates the hydrolysis of N2O5 and the gas-to-particle partitioning of hydrophilic NH4NO3 and. Further analysis of atmospheric formation relevance suggested that less-oxygenated organic aerosol formation was mainly driven by aqueous-phase chemistry reactions, whereas photochemical oxidation became an important process for more-oxygenated organic aerosol formation. Meanwhile, less-oxygenated organic aerosol formation may also be influenced by atmospheric oxidative tracer (i.e., Ox), as less-oxygenated organic aerosol exhibited a distinct peak at noon under high-relative humidity condition.
Stochastic processes in the structure and functioning of soil biodiversity
Authors: Lindo Zoë , Bolger Thomas , Caruso Tancredi
Published: May 2023

Ecologists are increasingly recognizing the importance of stochastic processes in generating spatial and temporal variation in biological communities. This variation is very high in soil, which hosts not <¼ of all biodiversity on Earth and is central to how terrestrial ecosystems respond to perturbations. Measurement errors, demographic stochasticity (individual variability in traits such as birth and death rates), and environmental stochasticity (fluctuations in environmental properties) are the three main sources of stochasticity in ecology. Here, we synthesize how these three sources of stochasticity are quantified and incorporated in the study of soil biodiversity, highlighting current limits, possible solutions, and future research needs. We stress the relevance of all these factors to our future understanding of terrestrial ecosystems via plant-soil and soil-climate interactions and feedbacks. In soil, measurement errors are due to the small size, high abundance, and broad distributions of soil organisms, which limit sampling in space and especially over time. We argue that positive autocorrelation is a main characteristic of soil environmental properties, which may have important consequences on the response of soil biota to perturbations. At a local scale, large populations of soil organisms also imply a minor role of demographic stochasticity. Despite demographic stochasticity being a less significant source of variability than environmental stochasticity, we show that demographic stochasticity can be sizeable, but that within soil systems, stochasticity of environmental conditions must be accounted for. Explicit consideration of stochastic processes in soil biodiversity research is essential to our future understanding of the processes that control soil biodiversity. In classical ecology, stochasticity implies probabilistic predictions in terms of population growth, extinction, species coexistence, and community diversity. In soil, stochasticity implies very variable responses to climate change and the soil-climate feedback. Future studies will have to identify the major sources of environmental stochasticity with a particular focus on the interaction between multiple global change factors.
Variation of social strategies between bluff and unobtrusive immigrant males during integration into a new social group: a case study in Macaca thibetana
Authors: Zhao Cheng-Ren , Chen Shi-Wang , Tian Hong-Wei , Sun Binghua , Zhang Qi-Xin , Xia Dong-Po
Published: May 2023

Immigrant males employed a range of species-specific social strategies to facilitate integration into a new social group for establishing stable dominant ranks and affiliative relationships with unfamiliar competitors who require them to adapt their behavior. However, less is known whether the social strategies of integration were individual-specific. In this study, a case that nine adult males immigrated into the subject social group provided a natural experiment to investigate the variation of social strategies between the bluff and unobtrusive immigrant males during integration into a new social group. We followed the wild YA1 Tibetan macaque group and collected the behavioral data from August 2021 to May 2022. The results showed that the bluff and unobtrusive immigrant males faced similar social pressure from intrasexual individuals in the target social group during both the prospecting and integrating stages. During the prospecting stage, the bluff and unobtrusive immigrant males formed “attempt strategies” to seek and establish social relationships with unfamiliar individuals in a new group. The bluff immigrant males formed affiliative relationships with high-ranking females and resident males whereas the unobtrusive immigrant males formed affiliative relationships with low-ranking females during the integrating stage. Our results firstly provided quantitative methods to distinguish prospecting and integrating stages during immigration processes. This case study also demonstrated that the bluff and unobtrusive immigrant males formed varied social strategies. Our results provided new insight into understanding the individual-specific social strategies of immigrant males during integration into a new social group.
Investigation of heteroscedasticity in polygenic risk scores across 15 quantitative traits
Authors: Jung Hyein , Jung Hae-Un , Baek Eun Ju , Chung Ju Yeon , Kwon Shin Young , Kang Ji-One , Lim Ji Eun , Oh Bermseok
Published: May 2023

The polygenic risk score (PRS) could be used to stratify individuals with high risk of diseases and predict complex trait of individual in a population. Previous studies developed a PRS-based prediction model using linear regression and evaluated the predictive performance of the model using the R2 value. One of the key assumptions of linear regression is that the variance of the residual should be constant at each level of the predictor variables, called homoscedasticity. However, some studies show that PRS models exhibit heteroscedasticity between PRS and traits. This study analyzes whether heteroscedasticity exists in PRS models of diverse disease-related traits and, if any, it affects the accuracy of PRS-based prediction in 354,761 Europeans from the UK Biobank. We constructed PRSs for 15 quantitative traits using LDpred2 and estimated the existence of heteroscedasticity between PRSs and 15 traits using three different tests of the Breusch-Pagan (BP) test, score test, and F test. Thirteen out of fifteen traits show significant heteroscedasticity. Further replication using new PRSs from the PGS catalog and independent samples (N = 23,620) from the UK Biobank confirmed the heteroscedasticity in ten traits. As a result, ten out of fifteen quantitative traits show statistically significant heteroscedasticity between the PRS and each trait. There was a greater variance of residuals as PRS increased, and the prediction accuracy at each level of PRS tended to decrease as the variance of residuals increased. In conclusion, heteroscedasticity was frequently observed in the PRS-based prediction models of quantitative traits, and the accuracy of the predictive model may differ according to PRS values. Therefore, prediction models using the PRS should be constructed by considering heteroscedasticity.
Phenomic and genomic prediction of yield on multiple locations in winter wheat
Authors: Jackson Robert , Buntjer Jaap B. , Bentley Alison R. , Lage Jacob , Byrne Ed , Burt Chris , Jack Peter , Berry Simon , Flatman Edward , Poupard Bruno , Smith Stephen , Hayes Charlotte , Barber Tobias , Love Bethany , Gaynor R. Chris , Gorjanc Gregor , Howell Phil , Mackay Ian J. , Hickey John M. , Ober Eric S.
Published: May 2023

Genomic selection has recently become an established part of breeding strategies in cereals. However, a limitation of linear genomic prediction models for complex traits such as yield is that these are unable to accommodate Genotype by Environment effects, which are commonly observed over trials on multiple locations. In this study, we investigated how this environmental variation can be captured by the collection of a large number of phenomic markers using high-throughput field phenotyping and whether it can increase GS prediction accuracy. For this purpose, 44 winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) elite populations, comprising 2,994 lines, were grown on two sites over 2 years, to approximate the size of trials in a practical breeding programme. At various growth stages, remote sensing data from multi- and hyperspectral cameras, as well as traditional ground-based visual crop assessment scores, were collected with approximately 100 different data variables collected per plot. The predictive power for grain yield was tested for the various data types, with or without genome-wide marker data sets. Models using phenomic traits alone had a greater predictive value (R2 = 0.39–0.47) than genomic data (approximately R2 = 0.1). The average improvement in predictive power by combining trait and marker data was 6%–12% over the best phenomic-only model, and performed best when data from one full location was used to predict the yield on an entire second location. The results suggest that genetic gain in breeding programmes can be increased by utilisation of large numbers of phenotypic variables using remote sensing in field trials, although at what stage of the breeding cycle phenomic selection could be most profitably applied remains to be answered.
Overview of distinct N6-Methyladenosine profiles of messenger RNA in osteoarthritis
Authors: Yu Yang , Lu Shitao , Li Yu , Xu Jianzhong
Published: May 2023

Although N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is closely associated with the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA), the mRNA profile of m6A modification in OA remains unknown. Therefore, our study aimed to identify common m6A features and novel m6A-related therapeutic targets in OA. In the present study, we identified 3962 differentially methylated genes (DMGs) and 2048 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation next-generation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) and RNA-sequencing. A co-expression analysis of DMGs and DEGs showed that the expression of 805 genes was significantly affected by m6A methylation. Specifically, we obtained 28 hypermethylated and upregulated genes, 657 hypermethylated and downregulated genes, 102 hypomethylated and upregulated genes, and 18 hypomethylated and downregulated genes. The differential gene expression analysis based on GSE114007 revealed 2770 DEGs. The Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) based on GSE114007 identified 134 OA-related genes. By taking the intersection of these results, ten novel aberrantly expressed, m6A-modified and OA-related key genes were identified, including SKP2, SULF1, TNC, ZFP36, CEBPB, BHLHE41, SOX9, VEGFA, MKNK2 and TUBB4B. The present study may provide valuable insight into identifying m6A-related pharmacological targets in OA.
Influenza A viruses in gulls in landfills and freshwater habitats in Minnesota, United States
Authors: Rasmussen Elizabeth A. , Czaja Agata , Cuthbert Francesca J. , Tan Gene S. , Lemey Philippe , Nelson Martha I. , Culhane Marie R.
Published: May 2023

Introduction: The unpredictable evolution of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) presents an ongoing threat to agricultural production and public and wildlife health. Severe outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses in US poultry and wild birds since 2022 highlight the urgent need to understand the changing ecology of AIV. Surveillance of gulls in marine coastal environments has intensified in recent years to learn how their long-range pelagic movements potentially facilitate inter-hemispheric AIV movements. In contrast, little is known about inland gulls and their role in AIV spillover, maintenance, and long-range dissemination.

Methods: To address this gap, we conducted active AIV surveillance in ring-billed gulls (Larus delawarensis) and Franklin's gulls (Leucophaeus pipixcan) in Minnesota's natural freshwater lakes during the summer breeding season and in landfills during fall migration (1,686 samples).

Results: Whole-genome AIV sequences obtained from 40 individuals revealed three-lineage reassortants with a mix of genome segments from the avian Americas lineage, avian Eurasian lineage, and a global “Gull” lineage that diverged more than 50 years ago from the rest of the AIV global gene pool. No poultry viruses contained gull-adapted H13, NP, or NS genes, pointing to limited spillover. Geolocators traced gull migration routes across multiple North American flyways, explaining how inland gulls imported diverse AIV lineages from distant locations. Migration patterns were highly varied and deviated far from assumed “textbook” routes.

Discussion: Viruses circulating in Minnesota gulls during the summer breeding season in freshwater environments reappeared in autumn landfills, evidence of AIV persistence in gulls between seasons and transmission between habitats. Going forward, wider adoption of technological advances in animal tracking devices and genetic sequencing is needed to expand AIV surveillance in understudied hosts and habitats.
Population genomics of American mink using genotype data
Authors: Hu Guoyu , Do Duy Ngoc , Manafiazar Ghader , Kelvin Alyson A. , Sargolzaei Mehdi , Plastow Graham , Wang Zhiquan , Miar Younes
Published: May 2023

Understanding the genetic structure of the target population is critically important to develop an efficient genomic selection program in domestic animals. In this study, 2,973 American mink of six color types from two farms (Canadian Centre for Fur Animal Research (CCFAR), Truro, NS and Millbank Fur Farm (MFF), Rockwood, ON) were genotyped with the Affymetrix Mink 70K panel to compute their linkage disequilibrium (LD) patterns, effective population size (Ne), genetic diversity, genetic distances, and population differentiation and structure. The LD pattern represented by average r2, decreased to <0.2 when the inter-marker interval reached larger than 350 kb and 650 kb for CCFAR and MFF, respectively, and suggested at least 7,700 and 4,200 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) be used to obtain adequate accuracy for genomic selection programs in CCFAR and MFF respectively. The Ne for five generations ago was estimated to be 76 and 91 respectively. Our results from genetic distance and diversity analyses showed that American mink of the various color types had a close genetic relationship and low genetic diversity, with most of the genetic variation occurring within rather than between color types. Three ancestral genetic groups was considered the most appropriate number to delineate the genetic structure of these populations. Black (in both CCFAR and MFF) and pastel color types had their own ancestral clusters, while demi, mahogany, and stardust color types were admixed with the three ancestral genetic groups. This study provided essential information to utilize the first medium-density SNP panel for American mink in their genomic studies.
Differences in the phenotypes and transcriptomic signatures of chimeric antigen receptor T lymphocytes manufactured via electroporation or lentiviral transfection
Authors: Niu Anna , Zou Jintao , Hu Xuan , Zhang Zhang , Su Lingyu , Wang Jing , Lu Xing , Zhang Wei , Chen Wei , Zhang Xiaopeng
Published: May 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is an innovative treatment for CD19-expressing lymphomas. CAR-T cells are primarily manufactured via lentivirus transfection or transposon electroporation. While anti-tumor efficacy comparisons between the two methods have been conducted, there is a current dearth of studies investigating the phenotypes and transcriptome alterations induced in T cells by the two distinct manufacturing methods. Here, we established CAR-T signatures using fluorescent imaging, flow cytometry, and RNA-sequencing. A small fraction of CAR-T cells that were produced using the PiggyBac transposon (PB CAR-T cells) exhibited much higher expression of CAR than those produced using a lentivirus (Lenti CAR-T cells). PB and Lenti CAR-T cells contained more cytotoxic T cell subsets than control T cells, and Lenti CAR-T cells presented a more pronounced memory phenotype. RNA-sequencing further revealed vast disparities between the two CAR-T cell groups, with PB CAR-T cells exhibiting greater upregulation of cytokines, chemokines, and their receptors. Intriguingly, PB CAR-T cells singularly expressed IL-9 and fewer cytokine release syndrome-associated cytokines when activated by target cells. In addition, PB CAR-T cells exerted faster in vitro cytotoxicity against CD19-expressing K562 cells but similar in vivo anti-tumor efficacy with Lenti CAR-T. Taken together, these data provide insights into the phenotypic alterations induced by lentiviral transfection or transposon electroporation and will attract more attention to the clinical influence of different manufacturing procedures.
Metabolic changes in kidney stone disease
Authors: Xu Zhenzhen , Yao Xiangyang , Duan Chen , Liu Haoran , Xu Hua
Published: May 2023

Kidney stone disease (KSD) is one of the earliest medical diseases known, but the mechanism of its formation and metabolic changes remain unclear. The formation of kidney stones is a extensive and complicated process, which is regulated by metabolic changes in various substances. In this manuscript, we summarized the progress of research on metabolic changes in kidney stone disease and discuss the valuable role of some new potential targets. We reviewed the influence of metabolism of some common substances on stone formation, such as the regulation of oxalate, the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), macrophage polarization, the levels of hormones, and the alternation of other substances. New insights into changes in substance metabolism changes in kidney stone disease, as well as emerging research techniques, will provide new directions in the treatment of stones. Reviewing the great progress that has been made in this field will help to improve the understanding by urologists, nephrologists, and health care providers of the metabolic changes in kidney stone disease, and contribute to explore new metabolic targets for clinical therapy.
Biological activity of human IgE monoclonal antibodies targeting Der p 2, Fel d 1, Ara h 2 in basophil mediator release assays
Authors: Pena-Castellanos Glorismer , Smith Bryan R. E. , Pomés Anna , Smith Scott A. , Stigler Maria A. , Widauer Hannah L. , Versteeg Serge A. , van Ree Ronald , Chapman Martin D. , Aglas Lorenz
Published: May 2023

Background

Human Immunoglobulin E monoclonal antibodies (hIgE mAb) are unique tools for investigating IgE responses. Here, the biological activity of hIgE mAb, derived from immortalized B cells harvested from the blood of allergic donors, targeting three allergens (Der p 2, Fel d 1 and Ara h 2) was investigated.

Methods

Three Der p 2-, three Fel d 1- and five Ara h 2-specific hIgE mAb produced by human B cell hybridomas, were combined in pairs and used to passively sensitize humanized rat basophilic leukemia cells and compared with sensitization using serum pools. Sensitized cells were stimulated with corresponding allergens (recombinant or purified), allergen extracts or structural homologs, having 40-88% sequence similarity, and compared for mediator (β-hexosaminidase) release.

Results

One, two and eight pairs of Der p 2-, Fel d 1- and Ara h 2-specific hIgE mAb, respectively, produced significant mediator release (>50%). A minimum hIgE mAb concentration of 15-30 kU/L and a minimum antigen concentration between 0.01-0.1 µg/mL were sufficient to induce a pronounced mediator release. Individual sensitization with one Ara h 2-specific hIgE mAb was able to induce crosslinking independently of a second specific hIgE mAb. Der p 2- and Ara h 2-specific mAb showed a high allergen specificity when compared to homologs. Mediator release from cells sensitized with hIgE mAb was comparable to serum sensitization.

Conclusion

The biological activity of hIgE mAb reported here provides the foundation for novel methods of standardization and quality control of allergen products and for mechanistic studies of IgE-mediated allergic diseases, using hIgE mAb.
Human IL-32θA94V mutant attenuates monocyte-endothelial adhesion by suppressing the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 via binding to cell surface receptor integrin αVβ3 and αVβ6 in TNF-α-stimulated HUVECs
Authors: Park Jae-Young , Park Hyo-Min , Kim Seonhwa , Jeon Kyeong-Bae , Lim Chae-Min , Hong Jin Tae , Yoon Do-Young
Published: May 2023

Interleukin-32 (IL-32), first reported in 2005, and its isoforms have been the subject of numerous studies investigating their functions in virus infection, cancer, and inflammation. IL-32θ, one of the IL-32 isoforms, has been shown to modulate cancer development and inflammatory responses. A recent study identified an IL-32θ mutant with a cytosine to thymine replacement at position 281 in breast cancer tissues. It means that alanine was also replaced to valine at position 94 in amino acid sequence (A94V). In this study, we investigated the cell surface receptors of IL-32θA94V and evaluated their effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Recombinant human IL-32θA94V was expressed, isolated, and purified using Ni-NTA and IL-32 mAb (KU32-52)-coupled agarose columns. We observed that IL-32θA94V could bind to the integrins αVβ3 and αVβ6, suggesting that integrins act as cell surface receptors for IL-32θA94V. IL-32θA94V significantly attenuated monocyte-endothelial adhesion by inhibiting the expression of Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-stimulated HUVECs. IL-32θA94V also reduced the TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT) and c-jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) by inhibiting phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Additionally, IL-32θA94V regulated the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1), which are involved in ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression. Monocyte-endothelial adhesion mediated by ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 is an important early step in atherosclerosis, which is a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Our findings suggest that IL-32θA94V binds to the cell surface receptors, integrins αVβ3 and αVβ6, and attenuates monocyte-endothelial adhesion by suppressing the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in TNF-α-stimulated HUVECs. These results demonstrate that IL-32θA94V can act as an anti-inflammatory cytokine in a chronic inflammatory disease such as atherosclerosis.