bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and outcome of patients with core-binding factor acute myeloid leukemia and FLT3-ITD: results from an international collaborative study
Authors: Kayser Sabine , Kramer Michael , Martínez-Cuadrón David , Grenet Justin , Metzeler Klaus H. , Sustkova Zuzana , Luskin Marlise R. , Brunner Andrew M. , Elliott Michelle A. , Gil Cristina , Marini Sandra Casal , Ráčil Zdeněk , Cetkovsky Petr , Novak Jan , Perl Alexander E. , Platzbecker Uwe , Stölzel Friedrich , Ho Anthony D. , Thiede Christian , Stone Richard M. , Röllig Christoph , Montesinos Pau , Schlenk Richard F. , Levis Mark J.
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of FLT3-ITD in core-binding factor acute myeloid leukemia (CBFAML) in an international, multicenter survey of 97 patients of whom 52% had t(8;21)(q22;q22) and 48% had inv(16)(p13q22)/t(16;16)(p13;q22). The median age of the patients was 53 years (range, 19-81). Complete remission after anthracycline-based induction (n=86) and non-intensive therapy (n=11) was achieved in 97% and 36% of the patients, respectively. The median follow-up was 4.43 years (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 3.35-7.39 years). The median survival after intensive and non-intensive treatment was not reached and 0.96 years, respectively. Among intensively treated patients, inv(16) with trisomy 22 (n=11) was associated with a favorable 4-year relapse-free survival rate of 80% (95% CI: 59-100%) as compared to 38% (95% CI: 27-54%; P=0.02) in all other patients with CBFAML/ FLT3-ITD (n=75). Overall, 24 patients underwent allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), 12 in first complete remission and 12 after relapse. Allogeneic HCT in first complete remission was not beneficial (P=0.60); however, allogeneic HCT seemed to improve median survival in relapsed patients compared to that of patients treated with chemotherapy (not reached vs. 0.6 years, respectively; P=0.002). Excluding patients with inv(16) with trisomy 22, our data indicate that compathe outcome of CBF-AML patients with FLT3-ITD may be inferior to that of patients without FLT3-ITD (based on previously published data), suggesting that prognostically CBF-AML patients with FLT3-ITD should not be classified as favorable-risk. FLT3-inhibitors may improve the outcome of these patients.
Análisis de la autogestión del aprendizaje del estudiante de grado: un caso de estudio en la modalidad a distancia
Authors: Becerra García Eulalia Betariz , Núñez Naranjo Aracelly Fernanda , Olalla Pardo Verónica Elizabeth
Published: August 2021

Introducción. Debido a la pandemia que actualmente impacta a la humanidad por acción del COVID-19, el estilo de vida de las personas ha cambiado drásticamente, uno de los sectores afectados mayormente es el educativo, por esta razón los estudiantes programaron en buscar mejores estrategias de aprendizaje. Objetivo. Este trabajo tuvo como principal propósito realizar un análisis de la autogestión del aprendizaje del estudiante de grado, un caso de estudio en la modalidad a distancia Metodología. Se aplicó una encuesta de 33 preguntas para conocer la autogestión del aprendizaje de los estudiantes, dividida en cuatro secciones: planificación, seguimiento, control y motivación. Resultados. Como principales resultados se obtuvo que los estudiantes de niveles superiores aplican mejores estrategias para la autogestión del aprendizaje que los estudiantes de los niveles medio e inferior. Conclusión. Los estudiantes de niveles inferiores y medio no tienen estrategias que ayuden a mejorar su autoaprendizaje, por lo cual es necesario en otra investigación, plantear estrategias que direccionen a los estudiantes a mejorar sus técnicas y estrategias para mejorar su aprendizaje.
Assessing the impact of land-use and land-cover changes on the climate over India using a regional climate model (RegCM4)
Authors: Nayak S , Mandal M , Maity S
Published: August 2021

Changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in recent decades are among the factors responsible for recent climate change. We assessed the impact of LULC changes on the climate over India through multi-decade simulations (3 decades) using the Regional Climate Modeling system (RegCM4) with fixed and changed LULC. Differences between the 2 simulations were considered to be impacts of LULC changes on the regional climate. The main focus was on the decadal climatology of temperature, precipitation and several other important climatic variables including specific humidity, moisture content, sensible heat, evapotranspiration over Indian regions and their responses to the LULC changes. We found a decreasing trend in annual precipitation and increasing trend in annual temperature over India during 1981-2010. The LULC changes over northwest, south peninsular and west-central regions of India contributed to warming during 1991-2010, while changes over central-north and northeastern regions resulted in cooling during this period. LULC changes also indicated a wet effect over south peninsular and west-central regions of India and a dry effect over northwest India in 1991-2010. The analysis indicated that LULC changes resulted in decreases in evapotranspiration, moisture content and specific humidity that led to decreased precipitation. On the other hand, changes in LULC also caused significant increases in sensible heat flux and albedo, which led to a temperature rise. Our overall modeling results further our understanding of the processes associated with LULC change feedback to the climate over Indian regions.
The effects of lime on pasture composition and production in western Waikato hill country
Authors: Boom Robin , Dodd Mike
Published: August 2021

A 4-year lime rate trial was established on a hill country sheep and cattle property near Te Akau to determine lime effects on pasture utilisation. Four rates of lime were applied (1.25 t/ha, 2.5 t/ha, 5 t/ha and 10 t/ha) to 2 m × 2 m plots, from which soil Al, Ca and pH, pasture grazing heights, dry matter production, pasture species composition, feed quality and brix levels were measured. Lime application reduced soil Al (14.6 to 1.1 mg/kg), and increased Ca and pH (5.0 to 6.2) over time in the highest application rate. Dry matter production responded to all rates of lime in each year, and by the fourth year it was 27% greater (1.25 t/ha treatment), 35% greater (2.5 t/ha treatment), 69% greater (5 t/ha treatment), and 97% greater (10 t/ha treatment) than in the un-limed plots. Ryegrass and subterranean clover content increased with lime rate, whereas chewings fescue and dicot weed content declined. There were no sustained differences in pasture grazing heights, feed quality or brix levels between the control and rates of lime. On this site, all rates of lime were economic to apply by truck or plane when the benefits were spread over 4 years, with the greatest cost-benefit from thelower rates of lime.
Ensiling Reduces Seed Viability: Implications for Weed Management
Authors: Hahn Juliane , de Mol Friederike , Müller Jürgen
Published: August 2021

Ensiling, a lactic acid fermentation process, is mainly used to preserve biomass. In addition, it has been shown to affect seed viability of some plant species. The extent to which this makes ensiling suitable as a weed control measure, however, has not yet been determined. Both the range of controllable species and the parameters of an ensiling process that safely kills seeds are still undefined. We aimed to determine the effect of varying substrate and ensiling conditions on the seed viability of 10 species selected to represent a wide range of different seed traits. Five different types of silages were made from maize or mixtures of wildflower and maize biomass and ensiled in lab-scale silos for 8 months. The pure maize silages were prepared under conditions either ideal or suboptimal for ensiling forage. Seeds of important weeds (Chenopodium album, Abutilon theophrasti) and of species from a wildflower mixture suitable for ensiling and biogas production (Cichorium intybus, Daucus carota, Echium vulgare, Malva alcea, Malva sylvestris, Melilotus albus, Melilotus officinalis) were tested. Seed viability was determined using a combination of tetrazolium and germination tests. Ensiling reduced seed viability across all 10 species significantly. Seed-killing efficacies of ensiling, however, differed widely among the species studied, largely related to whether the species could produce hard (physically dormant) seeds. Seeds from species without hardseededness were completely inactivated by ensiling, while the seed-killing efficacies for hardseeded species ranged from 5 to 60%. Variation in ensiled substrate and ensiling conditions had no consistent effect on seed survival. We concluded that ensiling has the potential to sustainably reduce seed viability of a wide range of species and therefore should be adopted as a component of integrated weed management in organic agriculture.
Medium-Term Increases in Ambient Grass Pollen Between 1994-1999 and 2016-2020 in a Subtropical Climate Zone
Authors: Addison-Smith Beth , Milic Andelija , Dwarakanath Divya , Simunovic Marko , Van Haeften Shanice , Timbrell Victoria , Davies Janet M.
Published: August 2021

Grass pollen is the major outdoor trigger of allergic respiratory diseases. Climate change is influencing pollen seasonality in Northern Hemisphere temperate regions, but many aspects of the effects on grass pollen remain unclear. Carbon dioxide and temperature rises could increase the distribution of subtropical grasses, however, medium term shifts in grass pollen in subtropical climates have not yet been analysed. This study investigates changes in grass pollen aerobiology in a subtropical city of Brisbane, Australia, between the two available monitoring periods, 1994-1999 and 2016-2020. Potential drivers of pollen change were examined including weather and satellite-derived vegetation indicators. The magnitude of the seasonal pollen index for grass showed almost a three-fold increase for 2016-2020 over 1994-1999. The number and proportion of high and extreme grass pollen days in the recent period increased compared to earlier monitoring. Statistically significant changes were also identified for distributions of CO2, satellite-derived seasonal vegetation health indices, and daily maximum temperatures, but not for minimum temperatures, daily rainfall, or seasonal fraction of green groundcover. Quarterly grass pollen levels were correlated with corresponding vegetation health indices, and with green groundcover fraction, suggesting that seasonal-scale plant health was higher in the latter period. The magnitude of grass pollen exposure in the subtropical region of Brisbane has increased markedly in the recent past, posing an increased environmental health threat. This study suggests the need for continuous pollen monitoring to track and respond to the possible effects of climate change on grass pollen loads.
Molecular Subtypes of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Based on Immunosuppression Genes Using a Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Li Simin , Mai Zhaoyi , Gu Wenli , Ogbuehi Anthony Chukwunonso , Acharya Aneesha , Pelekos George , Ning Wanchen , Liu Xiangqiong , Deng Yupei , Li Hanluo , Lethaus Bernd , Savkovic Vuk , Zimmerer Rüdiger , Ziebolz Dirk , Schmalz Gerhard , Wang Hao , Xiao Hui , Zhao Jianjiang
Published: August 2021

Background: The mechanisms through which immunosuppressed patients bear increased risk and worse survival in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are unclear. Here, we used deep learning to investigate the genetic mechanisms underlying immunosuppression in the survival of OSCC patients, especially from the aspect of various survival-related subtypes.

Materials and methods: OSCC samples data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC), and OSCC-related genetic datasets with survival data in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Immunosuppression genes (ISGs) were obtained from the HisgAtlas and DisGeNET databases. Survival analyses were performed to identify the ISGs with significant prognostic values in OSCC. A deep learning (DL)-based model was established for robustly differentiating the survival subpopulations of OSCC samples. In order to understand the characteristics of the different survival-risk subtypes of OSCC samples, differential expression analysis and functional enrichment analysis were performed.

Results: A total of 317 OSCC samples were divided into one inferring cohort (TCGA) and four confirmation cohorts (ICGC set, GSE41613, GSE42743, and GSE75538). Eleven ISGs (i.e., BGLAP, CALCA, CTLA4, CXCL8, FGFR3, HPRT1, IL22, ORMDL3, TLR3, SPHK1, and INHBB) showed prognostic value in OSCC. The DL-based model provided two optimal subgroups of TCGA-OSCC samples with significant differences (p = 4.91E-22) and good model fitness [concordance index (C-index) = 0.77]. The DL model was validated by using four external confirmation cohorts: ICGC cohort (n = 40, C-index = 0.39), GSE41613 dataset (n = 97, C-index = 0.86), GSE42743 dataset (n = 71, C-index = 0.87), and GSE75538 dataset (n = 14, C-index = 0.48). Importantly, subtype Sub1 demonstrated a lower probability of survival and thus a more aggressive nature compared with subtype Sub2. ISGs in subtype Sub1 were enriched in the tumor-infiltrating immune cells-related pathways and cancer progression-related pathways, while those in subtype Sub2 were enriched in the metabolism-related pathways.

Conclusion: The two survival subtypes of OSCC identified by deep learning can benefit clinical practitioners to divide immunocompromised patients with oral cancer into two subpopulations and give them target drugs and thus might be helpful for improving the survival of these patients and providing novel therapeutic strategies in the precision medicine area.
CRISPs Function to Boost Sperm Power Output and Motility
Authors: Gaikwad Avinash S. , Nandagiri Ashwin , Potter David L. , Nosrati Reza , O’Connor Anne E. , Jadhav Sameer , Soria Julio , Prabhakar Ranganathan , O’Bryan Moira K.
Published: August 2021

Fertilization requires sperm to travel long distances through the complex environment of the female reproductive tract. Despite the strong association between poor motility and infertility, the kinetics of sperm tail movement and the role individual proteins play in this process is poorly understood. Here, we use a high spatiotemporal sperm imaging system and an analysis protocol to define the role of CRISPs in the mechanobiology of sperm function. Each of CRISP1, CRISP2, and CRISP4 is required to optimize sperm flagellum waveform. Each plays an autonomous role in defining beat frequency, flexibility, and power dissipation. We thus posit that the expansion of the CRISP family from one member in basal vertebrates, to three in most mammals, and four in numerous rodents, represents an example of neofunctionalization wherein proteins with a common core function, boosting power output, have evolved to optimize different aspects of sperm tail performance.
Establishment of Mouse Primed Stem Cells by Combination of Activin and LIF Signaling
Authors: Wei Mengyi , Chen Yanglin , Zhao Chaoyue , Zheng Li , Wu Baojiang , Chen Chen , Li Xihe , Bao Siqin
Published: August 2021

In mice, embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and epiblast stem cells (EpiSCs) are established from pre- and post-implantation embryos and represent the naive and primed state, respectively. Herein we used mouse leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), which supports ESCs self-renewal and Activin A (Act A), which is the main factor in maintaining EpiSCs in post-implantation epiblast cultures, to derive a primed stem cell line named ALSCs. Like EpiSCs, ALSCs express key pluripotent genes Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog; one X chromosome was inactivated; and the cells failed to contribute to chimera formation in vivo. Notably, compared to EpiSCs, ALSCs efficiently reversed to ESCs (rESCs) on activation of Wnt signaling. Moreover, we also discovered that culturing EpiSCs in AL medium for several passages favored Wnt signaling-driven naive pluripotency. Our results show that ALSCs is a primed state stem cell and represents a simple model to study the control of pluripotency fate and conversion from the primed to the naive state.
The Kinocilia of Cochlear Hair Cells: Structures, Functions, and Diseases
Authors: Wang Difei , Zhou Jun
Published: August 2021

Primary cilia are evolutionarily conserved and highly specialized organelles that protrude from cell membranes. Mutations in genes encoding ciliary proteins can cause structural and functional ciliary defects and consequently multiple diseases, collectively termed ciliopathies. The mammalian auditory system is responsible for perceiving external sound stimuli that are ultimately processed in the brain through a series of physical and biochemical reactions. Here we review the structure and function of the specialized primary cilia of hair cells, termed kinocilia, found in the mammalian auditory system. We also discuss areas that might prove amenable for therapeutic management of auditory ciliopathies.
Anterior Hox Genes and the Process of Cephalization
Authors: Hombría James C.-G. , García-Ferrés Mar , Sánchez-Higueras Carlos
Published: August 2021

During evolution, bilateral animals have experienced a progressive process of cephalization with the anterior concentration of nervous tissue, sensory organs and the appearance of dedicated feeding structures surrounding the mouth. Cephalization has been achieved by the specialization of the unsegmented anterior end of the body (the acron) and the sequential recruitment to the head of adjacent anterior segments. Here we review the key developmental contribution of Hox1–5 genes to the formation of cephalic structures in vertebrates and arthropods and discuss how this evolved. The appearance of Hox cephalic genes preceded the evolution of a highly specialized head in both groups, indicating that Hox gene involvement in the control of cephalic structures was acquired independently during the evolution of vertebrates and invertebrates to regulate the genes required for head innovation.
Experimental Investigation of Self-Assembled Particles on Profile Control in the Fuyu Oilfield
Authors: Dong Lifei , Wang Miao , He Jie , Ding Mingchen , Lin Hun
Published: August 2021

The particle system is one of the widely used profile control agents in many oilfields, and the matching relationship between the particle and the reservoir pore throat is significant for the profile control effect. In order to enhance oil recovery after water breakthrough in the Fuyu oilfield, a self-assembled particle with some branches on the surface, compounded by inverse emulsion polymerization and added, is introduced as the profile control agent in this paper. Then the permeabilities of the water channel and the oil remaining area in the Fuyu oilfield are achieved after the statistic analysis of 1,022 cores from the practical reservoir. Furthermore, the oil restarting pressure in the oil remaining area and the self-assembled particle plugging strength in the water channel are tested. Finally, the adaption of the self-assembled particle and effect of profile control in the Fuyu oilfield are evaluated by comparing the oil restarting pressure and the plugging strength. The results show that the self-assembled particles can be gathered together easily by the force of the ionic bond, which is good for water channel plugging. The permeability of the water channel in the Fuyu oilfield ranges from 1,000 mD to 1,500 mD. The oil restarting pressure increases with the decreasing of permeability, and the increasing rate grows rapidly when it drops below 50 mD. Comparing the oil restarting pressure with the plugging strength, a self-assembled particle with a diameter of 20–40 μm in the water channel with a permeability of 1,265.7 mD can provide sufficient plugging strength to restart the remaining oil in the oil remaining areas with a permeability over 3.38 mD. The matched window of the self-assembled particle is wider than a normal particle in the Fuyu oilfield.
Solvothermal-Based Lignin Fractionation From Corn Stover: Process Optimization and Product Characteristics
Authors: Khongchamnan Punjarat , Wanmolee Wanwitoo , Laosiripojana Navadol , Champreda Verawat , Suriyachai Nopparat , Kreetachat Torpong , Sakulthaew Chainarong , Chokejaroenrat Chanat , Imman Saksit
Published: August 2021

Fractionation of lignocellulosic is a fundamental step in the production of value-added biobased products. This work proposes an initiative to efficiently extract lignin from the corn stover using a single-step solvothermal fractionation in the presence of an acid promoter (H2SO4). The organic solvent mixture used consists of ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water at a ratio of 30: 25:45 (v/v), respectively. H2SO4 was utilized as a promoter to improve the performance and selectivity of lignin removal from the solid phase and to increase the amount of recovered lignin in the organic phase. The optimal conditions for this extraction, based on response surface methodology (RSM), are a temperature of 180°C maintained for 49.1 min at an H2SO4 concentration of 0.08 M. The optimal conditions show an efficient reaction with 98.0% cellulose yield and 75.0% lignin removal corresponding to 72.9% lignin recovery. In addition, the extracted lignin fractions, chemical composition, and structural features were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, elemental analysis, and two-dimensional heteronuclear single quantum coherence nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (2D-HSQC NMR). The results indicate that the recovered lignin primarily contains a β-O-4 linking motif based on 2D-HSQC spectra. In addition, new C–C inter-unit linkages (i.e., β-β, and β-5) are not formed in the recovered lignin during H2SO4-catalyzed solvothermal pretreatment. This work facilitates effective valorization of lignin into value-added chemicals and fuels.
miR-200a-3p Attenuates Coronary Microembolization-Induced Myocardial Injury in Rats by Inhibiting TXNIP/NLRP3-Mediated Cardiomyocyte Pyroptosis
Authors: Chen Zhi-Qing , Zhou You , Chen Feng , Huang Jun-Wen , Li Hao-Liang , Li Tao , Li Lang
Published: August 2021

Coronary microembolization (CME) commonly develops as a complication after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and associated inflammation is a leading driver of myocardial damage. Cardiomyocyte loss in the context of ischemic myocardial disease has been linked to inflammatory pyroptotic cell death. Additionally, miR-200a-3p dysregulation has been linked to myocardial ischemia-reperfusion and many other pathological conditions. However, how miR-200a-3p impacts cardiomyocyte pyroptosis in the context of CME remains to be assessed. Herein, a rat model of CME was established via the injection of microembolic spheres into the left ventricle. When myocardial tissue samples from these rats were analyzed, miR-200a-3p levels were markedly decreased, whereas thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) levels were increased. The ability of miR-200a-3p to directly target TXNIP and to control its expression was confirmed via dual-luciferase reporter assay. Adeno-associated virus serotype 9-pre-miR-200a-3p (AAV-miR-200a-3p) construct transfection was then employed as a means of upregulating this miRNA in CME model rats. Subsequent assays, including echocardiography, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, hematoxylin-basic fuchsin-picric acid (HBFP) staining, TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, immunofluorescence staining, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and Western blotting revealed that miR-200a-3p overexpression inhibited cardiomyocyte pyroptosis and alleviated CME-induced myocardial injury by inhibiting the TXNIP/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) pathway. The ability of miR-200a-3p to protect against CME-induced myocardial injury thus highlights a novel approach to preventing or treating such myocardial damage in clinical settings.
Genetic Characteristics and Transcriptional Regulation of Sodium Channel Related Genes in Chinese Patients With Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Zhang Ziguan , Chen Hongwei , Chen Wenbo , Zhang Zhenghao , Li Runjing , Xu Jiajia , Yang Cui , Chen Minwei , Liu Shixiao , Li Yanling , Wang TzungDau , Tu Xin , Huang Zhengrong
Published: August 2021

Objective: To investigate the genetic characteristics and transcriptional regulation of the SCN5A gene of Brugada syndrome (BrS) patients in China.

Methods: Using PubMed, Medline, China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), and Wanfang Database, Chinese patients with BrS who underwent SCN5A gene testing were studied.

Results: A total of 27 suitable studies involving Chinese BrS patients who underwent the SCN5A gene test were included. A total of 55 SCN5A gene mutations/variations were reported in Chinese BrS patients, including 10 from southern China and 45 from northern China. Mutations/variations of BrS patients from southern China mostly occurred in the regions of the α-subunit of Nav1.5, including DIII (Domain III), DIV, DIII-DIV, C-terminus regions, and the 3'UTR region. Furthermore, we analyzed the post-transcriptional modifications (PTMs) throughout the Nav1.5 protein encoded by SCN5A and found that the PTM changes happened in 72.7% of BrS patients from southern China and 26.7% from northern China.

Conclusions: SCN5A mutations/variations of BrS patients in southern China mostly occurred in the DIII-DIV to C-terminus region and the 3'-UTR region of the SCN5A gene, different from northern China. PTM changes were consistent with the mutation/variation distribution of SCN5A, which might be involved in the regulation of the pathogenesis of BrS patients.
Assessing Sedimentary Boundary Layer Calcium Carbonate Precipitation and Dissolution Using the Calcium Isotopic Composition of Pore Fluids
Authors: James Daniel H. , Bradbury Harold J. , Antler Gilad , Steiner Zvi , Hutchings Alec M. , Sun Xiaole , Saar Raoul , Greaves Mervyn , Turchyn Alexandra V.
Published: August 2021

We present pore fluid geochemistry, including major ion and trace metal concentrations and the isotopic composition of pore fluid calcium and sulfate, from the uppermost meter of sediments from the Gulf of Aqaba (Northeast Red Sea) and the Iberian Margin (North Atlantic Ocean). In both the locations, we observe strong correlations among calcium, magnesium, strontium, and sulfate concentrations as well as the sulfur isotopic composition of sulfate and alkalinity, suggestive of active changes in the redox state and pH that should lead to carbonate mineral precipitation and dissolution. The calcium isotope composition of pore fluid calcium (δ44Ca) is, however, relatively invariant in our measured profiles, suggesting that carbonate mineral precipitation is not occurring within the boundary layer at these sites. We explore several reasons why the pore fluid δ44Ca might not be changing in the studied profiles, despite changes in other major ions and their isotopic composition, including mixing between the surface and deep precipitation of carbonate minerals below the boundary layer, the possibility that active iron and manganese cycling inhibits carbonate mineral precipitation, and that mineral precipitation may be slow enough to preclude calcium isotope fractionation during carbonate mineral precipitation. Our results suggest that active carbonate dissolution and precipitation, particularly in the diffusive boundary layer, may elicit a more complex response in the pore fluid δ44Ca than previously thought.
Paleoseismological Findings at a New Trench Indicate the 1714 M8.1 Earthquake Ruptured the Main Frontal Thrust Over all the Bhutan Himalaya
Authors: Zhao Yuqiu , Grujic Djordje , Baruah Santanu , Drukpa Dawchu , Elkadi Joanne , Hetényi György , King Georgina E. , Mildon Zoë K. , Nepal Nityam , Welte Caroline
Published: August 2021

The 1714 Bhutan earthquake was one of the largest in the Himalaya in the last millennium. We show that the surface rupture caused by this earthquake extended further to the east than previously known, it was at least 175 km long, with slip exceeding 11 m at our study site. The age of the surface rupture was constrained by a combination of radiocarbon and traditional optically stimulated luminescence dating of affected river sediments. Computations using empirical scaling relationships, fitting historical observations and paleoseismic data, yielded a plausible magnitude of Mw 8.1 ± 0.4 and placed the hypocentre of the 1714 Bhutan earthquake on the flat segment of the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT), the basal décollement of the Himalayan orogen. Calculations of Coulomb stress transfer indicate that great earthquakes along the leading part of the MHT would cause surface rupture. In contrast, distal earthquakes may not immediately trigger surface rupture, although they would increase the stresses in the leading part of the MHT, facilitating future surface-rupturing earthquakes. Frontal earthquakes would also transfer stress into the modern foreland basin facilitating southward propagation of the MHT as a blind basal décollement. In conclusion, studies of surface-rupturing events alone likely underestimate the seismic slip along the Himalayan megathrust.
Modeling of Spherical Dust Particle Charging due to Ion Attachment
Authors: Mallios Sotirios A. , Papangelis Georgios , Hloupis George , Papaioannou Athanasios , Daskalopoulou Vasiliki , Amiridis Vassilis
Published: August 2021

The attachment of positive and negative ions to settling spherical dust particles is studied. A novel 1D numerical model has been developed to parameterize the charging process in the presence of a large-scale electric field. The model is able to self-consistently calculate the modification of atmospheric ion densities in the presence of the dust particles, and the consequent alteration of the atmospheric electrical conductivity and the large-scale electric field. Moreover, the model estimates the acquired electrical charge on the dust particles and calculates the electrical force that is applied on them. Using observed dust size distributions, we find that the particles can acquire electrical charge in the range of 1–1,000 elementary charges depending on their size and number density. The particles become mainly negatively charged, but under specific conditions giant mode particles (larger than 50 μm radius) can be positive. Moreover, the large-scale electric field can increase up to 20 times as much as the fair weather value. However, our approach shows that the resultant electrical force is not enough to significantly influence their gravitational settling, as the ratio between the electrical force magnitude and the gravity magnitude does not exceed the value of 0.01. This indicates that the process of ion attachment alone is not sufficient to create strong electrical effects for the modification of particle dynamics. Therefore, other processes, such as the triboelectric effect and updrafts, must be included in the model to fully represent the impact of electricity on particle dynamics.
Multilevel Latent Transition Mixture Modeling: Variance Decomposition and Application
Authors: Morgan Grant B. , Padgett R. Noah
Published: August 2021

Person-centered methodologies generally refer to those that take unobserved heterogeneity of populations into account. The use of person-centered methodologies has proliferated, which is likely due to a number of factors, such as methodological advances coupled with increased personal computing power and ease of software use. Using latent class analysis and its extension for longitudinal data, [latent transition analysis (LTA)], multiple underlying, homogeneous subgroups can be inferred from a set of categorical and/or continuous observed variables within a large heterogeneous data set. Such analyses allow researchers to statistically treat members of different subgroups separately, which may provide researchers with more power to detect effects of interest and closer alignment between statistical modeling and one’s guiding theory. For many educational and psychological settings, the hierarchical structure of organizational data must also be taken into account; for example, students (i.e., level-1 units) are nested within teacher/schools (i.e., level-2 units). Finally, multilevel LTA can be used to estimate the number of latent classes in each structured unit and the potential movement, or transitions, participants make between latent classes across time. The transitions/stability between latent classes across time can be treated as the outcome in and of itself, or the transitions/stability can be used as a correlate or predictor of some other, distal outcome. The purpose of the paper is to discuss multilevel LTA, provide considerations for its use, and demonstrate variance decomposition, which requires numerous steps. The variance decomposition steps are presented didactically along with a worked example based on analysis from the Social Rating Scale of ECLS-K.
Decreased Sclerostin Secretion in Humans and Mice With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Zhou Fangli , Wang Yan , Li Yujue , Tang Mengjia , Wan Shan , Tian Haoming , Chen Xiang
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Growing evidence argues for a relationship between liver and bone metabolisms. Sclerostin is a secreted glycoprotein and could antagonize osteoblast-mediated bone formation. Previous studies indicated that circulating sclerostin levels may be associated with metabolic parameters with inconsistent results. This study was designed to evaluate serum sclerostin in patients with or without nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and to analyze its relationship with metabolic parameters in different populations.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was designed and 168 NAFLD subjects and 85 control subjects were included in this study. Serum sclerostin and metabolic parameters were measured. Mouse models of NAFLD were also induced by high-fat diet. Bone structural parameters were determined using microCT and mRNA expression levels of sclerostin in bone and liver tissues were measured.

Results

Our study suggested that circulating sclerostin levels were significantly lower in NAFLD subjects compared with normal controls. In NAFLD subjects, sclerostin was negatively correlated with multiple metabolic parameters, including waist circumference, urea, hepatic enzyme, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, and triglyceride, while such correlation was not significant in control subjects. Circulating sclerostin was also negatively correlated with fatty liver index in NAFLD subjects but not in control subjects. Mice fed on a high-fat diet had reduced bone mass and lower sclerostin expression levels in both the bone and liver tissues.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that the liver-lipid-bone interactions may play a key role in the abnormal bone metabolism in NAFLD, and circulating sclerostin may be a surrogate marker to reflect bone metabolism status in NAFLD subjects.
A Critical Review of the Evidence That Metformin Is a Putative Anti-Aging Drug That Enhances Healthspan and Extends Lifespan
Authors: Mohammed Ibrahim , Hollenberg Morley D. , Ding Hong , Triggle Chris R.
Published: August 2021

The numerous beneficial health outcomes associated with the use of metformin to treat patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), together with data from pre-clinical studies in animals including the nematode, C. elegans, and mice have prompted investigations into whether metformin has therapeutic utility as an anti-aging drug that may also extend lifespan. Indeed, clinical trials, including the MILES (Metformin In Longevity Study) and TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin), have been designed to assess the potential benefits of metformin as an anti-aging drug. Preliminary analysis of results from MILES indicate that metformin may induce anti-aging transcriptional changes; however it remains controversial as to whether metformin is protective in those subjects free of disease. Furthermore, despite clinical use for over 60 years as an anti-diabetic drug, the cellular mechanisms by which metformin exerts either its actions remain unclear. In this review, we have critically evaluated the literature that has investigated the effects of metformin on aging, healthspan and lifespan in humans as well as other species. In preparing this review, particular attention has been placed on the strength and reproducibility of data and quality of the study protocols with respect to the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of metformin. We conclude that despite data in support of anti-aging benefits, the evidence that metformin increases lifespan remains controversial. However, via its ability to reduce early mortality associated with various diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline and cancer, metformin can improve healthspan thereby extending the period of life spent in good health. Based on the available evidence we conclude that the beneficial effects of metformin on aging and healthspan are primarily indirect via its effects on cellular metabolism and result from its anti-hyperglycemic action, enhancing insulin sensitivity, reduction of oxidative stress and protective effects on the endothelium and vascular function.
NBS Framework for Agricultural Landscapes
Authors: Simelton Elisabeth , Carew-Reid Jeremy , Coulier Miguel , Damen Beau , Howell John , Pottinger-Glass Chloe , Tran Hung Viet , Van Der Meiren Marlies
Published: August 2021

Entering the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, interventions referred to as nature-based solutions (NBS) are at the forefront of the sustainability discourse. While applied in urban, natural forest or wetland ecosystems, they are underutilized in agricultural landscapes. This paper presents a technical framework to characterise NBS in agricultural systems. NBS in the agriculture sector is proposed as “the use of natural processes or elements to improve ecosystem functions of environments and landscapes affected by agricultural practices, and to enhance livelihoods and other social and cultural functions, over various temporal and spatial scales.” The framework emerges from a review of 188 peer-reviewed articles on NBS and green infrastructure published between 2015 and 2019 and three international expert consultations organized in 2019–2020. The framework establishes four essential functions for NBS in agriculture: 1) Sustainable practices — with a focus on production; 2) Green Infrastructure — mainly for engineering purposes such as water and soil, and slope stabilization; 3) Amelioration — for restoration of conditions for plants, water, soil or air and climate change mitigation; and 4) Conservation — focusing on biodiversity and ecosystem connectivity. The framework connects the conventional divide between production and conservation to add functionality, purpose and scale in project design. The review confirmed limited evidence of NBS in agricultural systems particularly in developing country contexts, although specific technologies feature under other labels. Consultations indicated that wider adoption will require a phased approach to generate evidence, while integrating NBS in national and local policies and agricultural development strategies. The paper concludes with recommended actions required to facilitate such processes.
Tracing the Long-Term Evolution of Land Cover in an Alpine Valley 1820–2015 in the Light of Climate, Glacier and Land Use Changes
Authors: Hohensinner Severin , Atzler Ulrike , Fischer Andrea , Schwaizer Gabriele , Helfricht Kay
Published: August 2021

Alpine glacial environments and their fluvial systems are among those landscapes most comprehensively affected by climate change. Typically, studies on the consequences of climate change in such environments, e.g., glacier retreat, cover a maximum of 70 years, reflecting the availability of orthophotos or satellite images. This study addresses the long-term transformation processes in a glaciated catchment and highlights the role of human agency in a changing Alpine environment. In order to identify land cover changes between 1820 and 2015 in the Long-Term Ecosystem Research (LTER) site “Jamtal” (Tyrol, Austria) we apply a “regressive-iterative GIS reconstruction method” combining both historical maps and optical remote sensing data. Below 2,100 m a.s.l. the Jamtal experienced a massive 62% decline of unvegetated debris areas and bedrock outcrops (so-called “wasteland”) that was mainly transformed to grassland and sparsely wooded areas. Forests increased by an outstanding 323% and grassland was replaced by sparsely or densely wooded areas. This primarily reflects the abandonment of agricultural uses at unfavourable remote sites. In the higher (formerly) glaciated subbasin, ice-covered areas declined by 55%, which was associated with a major (82%) growth of exposed wasteland. Concurrently, Alpine grassland expanded by 196% and krumholz even by 304%. Approximately half of the new fluvial system that evolved in deglaciated areas between 1870 and 1921 still existed in 2015. Unconsolidated debris buried almost one fifth of the new channels, and almost one third was colonized by vegetation. Recent data show that the deglaciation process is much faster than the colonization process by Alpine vegetation. Accordingly, the extent of wasteland has expanded and potentially amplifies the sediment supply to the fluvial system. Alterations in high Alpine hydrological and sediment/debris regimes significantly affect human use in lower, more favourable areas of the Alpine region. The long-term investigation of the Alpine landscape reveals that the transformation processes have accelerated in recent decades.
The Spatial Network Contagion of Environmental Risks Among Countries Along the Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Lu Ling , Fang Kai , Liu Chuan Ming , Sun Cheng
Published: August 2021

Under the tide of global economic integration with aggravated environmental risks caused by intensive human activities, the spatial network correlation of environmental risks has become intensified. The close exchange of activities among the countries under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will especially feel this contagion of environmental risks. Given this situation, this article analyzes the environmental risk contagion relations among the BRI countries and the characteristics of their network structure by using social network analysis (SNA). A block model is used to analyze the spatial clustering characteristics of the environmental risk contagion. Specifically, the driving factors of environmental risk contagion are analyzed through the quadratic assignment procedure (QAP) of SNA. The results of this article provide some references for the BRI to reduce the environmental risks and jointly control the environmental risk contagion, so as to assist in the promotion of a green silk road.
Elevating and Recognising Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples to Improve Forest Biosecurity
Authors: Kuru Rose , Marsh Alby , Ganley Beccy
Published: August 2021

Current forest biosecurity systems and processes employed in many countries are, in large, constructs of Western principles, values and science knowledge that have been introduced and integrated internationally. They are often devoid of knowledge, and of the values and principles, held by indigenous people, even those who have an intimate and enduring relationship with their forests. Indigenous people are also often overlooked in policy and decision-making processes, yet are often most affected by biosecurity pests and pathogens that impact native plant species that they may rely on for sustenance, cultural or spiritual purposes. By adopting an inclusive approach, scientists and indigenous people can achieve more comprehensive and robust biosecurity outcomes through a shared diversity of knowledge and at the same time serves to elevate and recognise the importance of indigenous knowledge. A co-innovation approach can also result in more widespread adoption of tools or practices by end-users including indigenous people. Understanding New Zealand Māori and their unique knowledge base can help improve forest biosecurity systems and practices, as can discussions of barriers that can and have prevented adoption of inclusiveness. Here we outline key principles behind indigenous engagement, specifically the need to develop enduring relationships.
Circ_0084582 Facilitates Cell Growth, Migration, Invasion, and Angiopoiesis in Osteosarcoma via Mediating the miR-485-3p/JAG1 Axis
Authors: Gao Peng , Zhao Xincheng , Yu Keying , Zhu Ziqiang
Published: August 2021

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most representative bone cancer, and circular RNAs serve as pivotal regulators in the progression of OS. This research was designed to explore the role and functional mechanism of circ_0084582 in OS. Circ_0084582, microRNA-485-3p (miR-485-3p), and Jagged1 (JAG1) levels were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation was examined via 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell cycle progression was analyzed by flow cytometry. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed for evaluating cell migration and invasion. Angiopoiesis was assessed using the tube formation assay. Protein detection was conducted using Western blot. The target relation was identified by the dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay, and RNA pull-down assay. A xenograft experiment was applied for analyzing the effect of circ_0084582 on OS in vivo. Circ_0084582 was highly expressed in OS tissues and cells. Circ_0084582 knockdown reduced cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration, invasion, and angiopoiesis of OS cells. JAG1 was upregulated in OS, and its overexpression reversed the effects of circ_0084582 knockdown on OS cells. Circ_0084582 targeted miR-485-3p, and miR-485-3p targeted JAG1, and circ_0084582 could affect the JAG1 level by sponging miR-485-3p. The function of circ_0084582 in OS progression was also achieved by sponging miR-485-3p. Circ_0084582 knockdown decreased OS growth in vivo partly by the miR-485-3p–mediated JAG1 downregulation. These results indicate that circ_0084582 functions as a tumorigenic factor in OS via the regulation of miR-485-3p/JAG1 axis.
Characterization and Comparative Analysis of Complete Chloroplast Genomes of Three Species From the Genus Astragalus (Leguminosae)
Authors: Tian Chunyu , Li Xiansong , Wu Zinian , Li Zhiyong , Hou Xiangyang , Li Frank Yonghong
Published: August 2021

Astragalus is the largest genus in Leguminosae. Several molecular studies have investigated the potential adulterants of the species within this genus; nonetheless, the evolutionary relationships among these species remain unclear. Herein, we sequenced and annotated the complete chloroplast genomes of three Astragalus species—Astragalus adsurgens, Astragalus mongholicus var. dahuricus, and Astragalus melilotoides using next-generation sequencing technology and plastid genome annotator (PGA) tool. All species belonged to the inverted repeat lacking clade (IRLC) and had similar sequences concerning gene contents and characteristics. Abundant simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci were detected, with single-nucleotide repeats accounting for the highest proportion of SSRs, most of which were A/T homopolymers. Using Astragalus membranaceus var. membranaceus as reference, the divergence was evident in most non-coding regions of the complete chloroplast genomes of these species. Seven genes (atpB, psbD, rpoB, rpoC1, trnV, rrn16, and rrn23) showed high nucleotide variability (Pi), and could be used as DNA barcodes for Astragalus sp. cemA and rpl33 were found undergoing positive selection by the section patterns in the coded protein. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Astragalus is a monophyletic group closely related to the genus Oxytropis within the tribe Galegeae. The newly sequenced chloroplast genomes provide insight into the unresolved evolutionary relationships within Astragalus spp. and are expected to contribute to species identification.