bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on synergetic effect of non-contact ultrasonic casting and mushy state rolling on microstructure and hardness of Al–Si–Al2O3 nanocomposites
Authors: Kottana Naveen Kumar , Vishwanatha H. M. , Sengupta Srijan , Saxena Kuldeep , Behera Ajit , Ghosh Sudipto
Published: August 2022

The present work elucidates a novel way of processing Al–Si–Al2O3 bulk nanocomposites. The novel approach includes synergetic effect of non-contact ultrasonication and mushy state rolling for achieving appreciable uniformity in the distribution of nanoparticles in the metal matrix. A systematic study on the distribution of particles, the resultant microstructure, and also the resultant hardness in the nanocomposite has been presented. It is shown that the current methodology has resulted in enhanced distribution of nanoparticles in the metal matrix as compared to the earlier versions in the field. The structure of the nanocomposites has been explained on the basis of cavitation phenomena and particle pushing during solidification. The work also includes simulation using the Fluent platform to estimate the time available before the initiation of solidification to carry out effective deagglomeration and distribution of nanoparticles in the liquid melt using ultrasonic cavitation. Although the non-contact ultrasonic casting has resulted in a nearly uniform deagglomeration of nanoparticle clusters, a small number of agglomerates were present at the grain boundaries. Hence, the as-cast nanocomposites were deformed in the mushy state condition. An attempt has been made to explore the feasibility of enhancing the distribution of nanoparticles in the Al–Si matrix through semisolid state rolling. The synergetic effect has resulted in enhancement of the hardness of the material by 37%.
Incidence and Associated Factors of Anemia in Patients with Acute Moderate and Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Vanhala Heidi , Junttila Eija , Kataja Anneli , Huhtala Heini , Luostarinen Teemu , Luoto Teemu
Published: August 2022

Background

Anemia might contribute to the development of secondary injury in patients with acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). Potential determinants of anemia are still poorly acknowledged, and reported incidence of declined hemoglobin concentration varies widely between different studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of severe anemia among patients with moderate to severe TBI and to evaluate patient- and trauma-related factors that might be associated with the development of anemia.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved all adult patients admitted to Tampere University Hospital’s emergency department for moderate to severe TBI (August 2010 to July 2012). Detailed information on patient demographics and trauma characteristics were obtained, including data on posttraumatic care, data on neurosurgical procedures, and all measured in-hospital hemoglobin values. Severe anemia was defined as a hemoglobin level less than 100 g/L. Both univariate and multivariable analyses were performed, and hemoglobin trajectories were created.

Results

The study included 145 patients with moderate to severe TBI (male 83.4%, mean age 55.0 years). Severe anemia, with a hemoglobin level less than 100 g/L, was detected in 66 patients (45.5%) and developed during the first 48 h after the trauma. In the univariate analysis, anemia was more common among women (odds ratio [OR] 2.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13–7.15), patients with antithrombotic medication prior to trauma (OR 3.33; 95% CI 1.34–8.27), patients with cardiovascular comorbidities (OR 3.12; 95% CI 1.56–6.25), patients with diabetes (OR 4.56; 95% CI 1.69–12.32), patients with extracranial injuries (OR 3.14; 95% CI 1.69–12.32), and patients with midline shift on primary head computed tomography (OR 2.03; 95% CI 1.03–4.01). In the multivariable analysis, midline shift and extracranial traumas were associated with the development of severe anemia (OR 2.26 [95% CI 1.05–4.48] and OR 4.71 [95% CI 1.74–12.73], respectively).

Conclusions

Severe anemia is common after acute moderate to severe TBI, developing during the first 48 h after the trauma. Possible anemia-associated factors include extracranial traumas and midline shift on initial head computed tomography.
Characterization of basaltic rock aquifer parameters using hydraulic parameters, Theis’s method and aquifer test software in the hard rock area of Buchakewadi watershed Maharashtra, India
Authors: Shinde S. P. , Barai V. N. , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Gavit B. K. , Kadam S. A. , Atre A. A. , Bansod R. D. , Elbeltagi Ahmed
Published: August 2022

The twelve wells were selected to carry out the various test, duration of pumping (min), maximum draw drown (m), duration of recovery (min), residual drawdown, and aquifer type in the basaltic rock aquifer parameters of Buchakewadi watershed. The source and flow of groundwater are essential concerns in hydrological systems that concern both spatially and temporally components of groundwater discharge and water supply problems. The content and temperature of groundwater flowing through an aquifer might change depending on the aquifer environment. As a result, hydrodynamic analyses can provide valuable information about a region's subsurface geology. The present research attempts of aquifer variables such as transmissivity (T) and storativity (S) estimation are significant for groundwater resource development and evaluation. There are numerous approaches for calculating precise aquifer characteristics (i.e., hydrograph analysis, pumping test, etc.). A most frequent in situ analysis is a well-pumping test, which accurately measures the decline and rise of groundwater levels. During an aquifer pumping test, to characterize aquifer properties in an undiscovered location to forecast the rate of depletion of the groundwater table/potentiometric surface. The shallow, weathering subsurface water accessible above the Deccan traps in an unconfined state is insufficient to satisfy the ever-increasing pressure on water supplies. Maharashtra is similarly dominated by hard rocks, whose rainfall susceptibility is limited by weathering and primary porosity, as is their volume to store and convey water. Based on the hydraulic parameters and Theis method, results are optimized. Aquifer mapping and pumping test results can be more important for solving problems such as water scarcity, nonpolluting water, health issues, and source of fresh water on the earth surface. However, the characterization of aquifer parameters should be significant role in the scientific planning and engineering practices.
Automated Essay Writing: An AIED Opinion
Authors: Sharples Mike
Published: August 2022

This opinion piece emerged from research for the book, Story Machines: How Computers Have Become Creative Writers, by Mike Sharples and Rafael Pérez y Pérez, published by Routledge. While thinking of ways to promote the book, I realised that students could employ AI story generators to write essays. That led me to research automated essay writing, write a Twitter thread that has garnered 43,000 engagements, and author a blog article (Sharples, 2022). The current piece is a revised and expanded version of that article.
First-Year Engineering Students’ Strategies for Taking Exams
Authors: Kuzilek Jakub , Zdrahal Zdenek , Vaclavek Jonas , Fuglik Viktor , Skocilas Jan , Wolff Annika
Published: August 2022

Student drop-out is one of the most critical issues that higher educational institutions face nowadays. The problem is significant for first-year students. These freshmen are especially at risk of failing due to the transition from different educational settings at high school. Thanks to the massive boom of Information and Communication Technologies, universities have started to collect a vast amount of study- and student-related data. Teachers can use the collected information to support students at risk of failing their studies. At the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, the situation is no different, and first-year students are a vulnerable group similar to other institutions. The most critical part of the first year is the first exam period. One of the essential skills the student needs to develop is planning for exams. The presented research aims to explore the exam-taking patterns of first-year students. Data of 361 first-year students have been analysed and used to construct “layered” Markov chain probabilistic graphs. The graphs have revealed interesting behavioural patterns within the groups of successful and unsuccessful students.
High Output Performance and Ultra-Durable DC Output for Triboelectric Nanogenerator Inspired by Primary Cell
Authors: Fu Shaoke , He Wencong , Wu Huiyuan , Shan Chuncai , Du Yan , Li Gui , Wang Ping , Guo Hengyu , Chen Jie , Hu Chenguo
Published: August 2022

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is regarded as an effective strategy to convert environment mechanical energy into electricity to meet the distributed energy demand of large number of sensors in the Internet of Things (IoTs). Although TENG based on the coupling of triboelectrification and air-breakdown achieves a large direct current (DC) output, material abrasion is a bottleneck for its applications. Here, inspired by primary cell and its DC signal output characteristics, we propose a novel primary cell structure TENG (PC-TENG) based on contact electrification and electrostatic induction, which has multiple working modes, including contact separation mode, freestanding mode and rotation mode. The PC-TENG produces DC output and operates at low surface contact force. It has an ideal effective charge density (1.02 mC m−2). Meanwhile, the PC-TENG shows a superior durability with 99% initial output after 100,000 operating cycles. Due to its excellent output performance and durability, a variety of commercial electronic devices are powered by PC-TENG via harvesting wind energy. This work offers a facile and ideal scheme for enhancing the electrical output performance of DC-TENG at low surface contact force and shows a great potential for the energy harvesting applications in IoTs.
The spirit is willing, but the institutions are weak: disclosure of corporate social responsibility and the financial sector in transition
Authors: Djalilov Khurshid , Hartwell Christopher A.
Published: August 2022

Evidence exploring the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and corporate financial performance (CFP) is consistently inconsistent, if not outright contradictory. We assert that much of this confusion is due to a failure to integrate both firm internal performance and the external environment into theoretical and empirical analyses of the effect of CSR disclosure on firm efficiency. This paper attempts to bring these two facets together in an examination of banking sector efficiency in a situation where the entire external environment is in flux, namely transition. Using a database of 319 banks from 21 transition countries, and using dynamic panel and quantile regressions, we provide empirical evidence that banks in transition countries saw benefits in firm performance only when CSR activities were layered on top of a strategy which already was profitable. Indeed, once profitability was achieved, only then did CSR disclosure begin to confer a competitive edge in developing firm resources. However, the external environment continues to exert an influence, and even where banks met profitability goals, predatory institutions can still make engaging in CSR a detriment to competitive advantage.
Liver transplantation in a patient with massive polycystic liver disease: A case report and literature review
Authors: Deng Qingsong , Liu Fenghao , He Minglian , Ou Yanjiao , Zhang Leida
Published: August 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction and importance:

Liver transplantation (LT) is rarely performed and challenging but is the only curative treatment option for severe polycystic liver disease (PLD). LT can cause hemorrhage and is not standardized. We performed a routine operation for smooth, giant liver cysts, with minimal intraoperative bleeding.

Case presentation:

We report a case of a 38-year-old female who was hospitalized for emaciation with abdominal distension for 5 years that became worse for 1 year. She was diagnosed with massive PLD complicated by liver cirrhosis, splanchnic varices and ascites that led to reduced activity, diminished ability to live independently and reduced quality of life; she successfully underwent LT.

Clinical discussion:

The patient had a large volume of hepatic cysts and little normal liver parenchyma, resulting in obvious clinical symptoms untreatable with routine surgery. The only curative surgical option for patients with severe symptoms is LT. The patient recovered smoothly after LT. We conclude that the only radical method for treating large polycystic liver lesions is LT in a conventional operation. Intraoperative bleeding was minimal. The anhepatic phase and revascularization time did not differ from those of conventional LT. The patient recovered well postoperatively.

Conclusion:

A literature review suggests that the only radical treatment for giant polycystic liver is LT. At present, most of the literature is case reports or summary analyses of a small sample of cases. A long-term (more than 20 years) survival analysis suggests that LT has a low incidence of surgical complications and a good long-term curative effect.

Highlights
Range Limits: Semiferal Animal Husbandry in Spanish Colonial Arizona
Authors: Mathwich Nicole M.
Published: August 2022

In North America, the introduction of livestock as part of the Columbian Exchange had profound social and ecological consequences for cultural environments, yet the landscape impacts of these animals have been difficult to identify, particularly in the first decades of sustained contact. Between 1701 and 1775, at a Spanish colonial mission near what is today Nogales, Arizona, O'odham groups and Spanish missionaries generated land management practices that wove together the needs of domesticated animals and existing Indigenous farming practices. This study proposes a set of indicators to identify animal husbandry practices in both the archaeological and historical record. Faunal, isotopic, and historical analyses from Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi provide evidence that cattle ages were loosely monitored and that cattle were culled at an older age than optimal for meat and grease extractive strategies compared to other domesticated species at the site. These findings suggest a low investment strategy in cattle, which may have helped Indigenous groups continue aspects of precontact agricultural and gathering practices and preserve their communities in the colonial period. These findings provide further evidence of the depth of animal husbandry practices among Indigenous groups in the Southwest.
Women, Peace and Security National Action Plans in anti-gender governments: The cases of Brazil and Poland
Authors: Thomson Jennifer , Whiting Sophie
Published: August 2022

In recent years, Brazil and Poland have elected governments that are sceptical of both the liberal international order and gender. In both cases, contemporary administrations have bolstered the pre-existing anti-gender offensive of religious and secular conservative forces and converted this into legislation and public policy. Yet, at the same time, both have also created National Action Plans around the UN's Women, Peace and Security agenda. Why is this the case? Why do two governments that see gender as an ‘ideology’ continue to work on WPS? Using a feminist institutionalist framework, this article draws on content analysis of the NAPs and semi-structured in-depth interviews with stakeholders in Brazil and Poland to explore this puzzle. We argue that the WPS agenda has survived in these political contexts due the presence of key ‘femocrats’ within the state; the influence of international institutions; and the symbolic power that the WPS agenda gives to these countries on the world stage. As such, the article makes a key contribution to the literature on the WPS agenda and also bolsters the argument for a complication of the idea of gender ‘backlash’ – in domestic and international audiences, states are willing to adopt different attitudes to gender if it furthers their interests.
Psycho-behavioural responses of the general population to COVID-19 after mass vaccination: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chien Wai Tong , Leung Alice Wai Yi , Lam Stanley Kam Ki , Choi Kai Chow , Wong Cho Lee
Published: August 2022

Background

Previous studies have examined public psycho-behavioural responses in the early stages of the epidemic, little is known after mass vaccination has been implemented. This study aimed to investigate the public's behavioural (adoption of COVID-19 precautionary measures) and psychological (depression, anxiety and stress) responses to COVID-19 and their relationships after the launch of the territory-wide vaccination programme in Hong Kong.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study using anonymous online or face-to-face questionnaires was conducted between June 2021 and September 2021. A convenience sample of Hong Kong Chinese residents aged ⩾18 years were recruited online by referrals and from a university-run community vaccination centre.

Results

A total of 1893 valid questionnaires were received. The results showed that Hong Kong residents have high levels of adoption of precautionary measures and low levels of depression, anxiety and stress after the mass vaccination. Hierarchical regression analysis identified that in the fully adjusted model, the adoption of precautionary measures was a consistent protective factor (β ranged −1.51 to −1.67, p < 0.001) for depression, anxiety and stress amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions

This study offers new information on the public's psycho-behavioural responses to the pandemic, as well as insights into public health planning after introducing the mass vaccination.
What Do We Know about Power Sharing after 50 Years?
Authors: Farag Mahmoud , Jung Hae Ran , Montini Isabella C. , Bourdeau de Fontenay Juliette , Ladhar Satveer
Published: August 2022

The power-sharing literature lacks a review that synthesizes its findings, despite spanning over 50 years since Arend Lijphart published his seminal 1969 article ‘Consociational Democracy’. This review article contributes to the literature by introducing and analysing an original dataset, the Power Sharing Articles Dataset, which extracts data on 23 variables from 373 academic articles published between 1969 and 2018. The power-sharing literature, our analysis shows, has witnessed a boom in publications in the last two decades, more than the average publication rate in the social sciences. This review offers a synthesis of how power sharing is theorized, operationalized and studied. We demonstrate that power sharing has generally positive effects, regardless of institutional set-up, post-conflict transitional character and world region. Furthermore, we highlight structural factors that are mostly associated with the success of power sharing. Finally, the review develops a research agenda to guide future scholarly work on power sharing.
Investigating the radical right's family policy agenda: evidence from six European countries
Authors: Giuliani Giovanni Amerigo
Published: August 2022

The positions of the radical right parties (RRPs) concerning the family have generally been examined through a socio-cultural lens, but very little is known about their distributive preferences. Based on the theoretical insights from the literature on varieties of familialism and social investment, the article investigates the RRPs' family policy agenda in terms of preference and support for familialism and de-familialism. Furthermore, cross-country similarities and differences will be investigated through an explanatory framework that combines the literature on partisan politics with that on historical institutionalism. A content analysis of party manifestos has shown that the RRPs adopt a male-breadwinner policy agenda, mostly intended to please their authoritarian electorate. However, comparative empirical research has highlighted some cross-country differences. These are explained by considering the counter-feedback mechanism triggered by the policy legacies, which provides RRPs with divergent electoral incentives and disincentives to promote their family policy agenda.
Gender and the Influence of Proportional Representation: A Comment on the Peripheral Voting Thesis
Authors: TEELE DAWN LANGAN
Published: August 2022

The right to vote is a keystone of democracy, but many groups, including those that were long excluded from the ballot, fail to exercise their rights in large numbers. In the United States, cutting edge research has argued that the first women to cast ballots were “peripheral” voters: their decisions to participate were even more sensitive to electoral competition than were men’s, producing larger gender gaps in turnout in less competitive districts. This paper argues that the portability of the peripheral voting thesis depends on the electoral institutions when suffrage was granted. Using the example of Norway, which transitioned from majoritarian rules to proportional representation just a few years after women won the vote, I show that proportional representation, which increases competition on average, produces a dramatic fall in the gender turnout gap, particularly in previously uncompetitive districts. These findings suggest that electoral systems, more than gender, made women peripheral voters
Failure modes in fluid saturated rocks: deformation processes and mode-switching
Authors: Hobbs Bruce , Ord Alison
Published: August 2022

We consider the implications of adding a cap to the yield surface for elastic–plastic and elastic–visco-plastic solids with coupling between deformation, fluid flow and mineral reactions. For a suitable combination of (low) permeability and strain rate, opening-mode veins can form in compression. Such behaviour is enhanced by dissolution and by simultaneous mineral reactions with negative ΔV. These are the opening-mode equivalents of compaction bands in rocks with high permeability. Stylolite parallel veins are considered as forming in this way; such veins are commonly the laminated or ribbon-quartz veins associated with intense gold mineralization. Axial plane veins and melt segregations are in this class also. The addition of a yield surface cap limits the permissible stress states portrayed by a failure-mode diagram and has implications for breccia formation. Failure discontinuities that form at the cap require adecreasein fluid pressure to form as opposed to extension joints and veins that require anincreasein fluid pressure; discontinuities that form at the cap are in orientations that are commonly interpreted as reactivated early discontinuities. The switching between high fluid pressure and low fluid pressure, which we callmode-switching, arises from competition between mineral dissolution and deposition. This is an alternative to the fault-valve mechanism and does not require fault reactivation or failure at a ‘seal’ linked to seismicity or fault reactivation. The capped yield surface concept provides a unifying self-consistent approach for vein/breccia formation and for the kinematics of brittle and visco-plastic rocks.
Maximal order Abelian subgroups of Coxeter groups
Authors: Burns John M. , Pfeiffer Goetz
Published: August 2022

In this note, we give a classification of the maximal order Abelian subgroups of finite irreducible Coxeter groups. We also prove a Weyl group analog of Cartan’s theorem that all maximal tori in a connected compact Lie group are conjugate.
Tai chi as an adjunctive therapy for individuals who plateau after vestibular rehabilitation
Authors: Chow K , Lei-Rivera L , Cosetti M K , Kelly J L
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of tai chi on balance in patients with improved but persistent dizziness and imbalance following completion of traditional vestibular rehabilitation therapy.

Method

Patients who completed vestibular rehabilitation therapy with persistent imbalance were prospectively enrolled in a tai chi programme comprising eight weekly classes. Balance was assessed before the first and after the eighth session using the Dynamic Gait Index, Activities-Specific Balance Confidence scale and Dizziness Handicap Inventory.

Results

A total of 37 participants (34 females, 3 males) completed the programme with balance testing. Mean age was 76.8 years (range, 56–91 years). Mean Dynamic Gait Index significantly increased after completion of tai chi (p < 0.00001). Mean Activities-Specific Balance Confidence scale score increased from 63.6 to 67.9 per cent (p = 0.046). A subset (n = 18) of patients completed a Dizziness Handicap Inventory without significant post-therapeutic change (p = 0.62). Most (36 of 37; 97.3 per cent) patients demonstrated post-therapy improvement on one or more assessments.

Conclusion

Tai chi is a viable adjunct to improve balance in patients who complete a vestibular rehabilitation therapy programme.
Inverse kinematics strategies for physical human-robot interaction using low-impedance passive link shells
Authors: Beaudoin Jonathan , Laliberté Thierry , Gosselin Clément
Published: August 2022

This paper presents an investigation of the effectiveness of different inverse kinematics strategies in a context of physical human-robot interaction in which passive articulated shells are mounted on the links of a serial robot for manual guidance. The concept of passive link shells is first recalled. Then, inverse kinematics strategies that are designed to plan the trajectory of the robot according to the motion sensed at the link shells are presented and formulated. The different approaches presented all aim at interpreting the motion of the shells and provide an intuitive interaction to the human user. Damped Jacobian based methods are introduced in order to alleviate singularities. A serial 5-dof robot used in previous work is briefly introduced and is used as a test case for the proposed inverse kinematics schemes. The robot includes two link shells for interaction. Simulation results based on the different inverse kinematic strategies are then presented and compared. Finally, general observations and recommendations are discussed.
Dosimetric effects of oral contrast in the planning of conventional radiotherapy and IMRT, for rectal cancer treatment
Authors: Montero-Oleas Nadia , Imbaquingo-Cabrera Andrés , Coloma-Espin Alejandro , Collantes-Cruz Vladimir , Molineros Carlos , Núñez-Silva Cristina
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Contrast media are frequently used during radiation therapy simulation. However, there are concerns about dosimetric variations when dose calculation is done on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). This study evaluates the dosimetric effect of oral contrast during three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and volumetric modulated arc radiotherapy (VMAT) planning.

Methods:

Rectal cancer patients were consecutively enrolled. For each patient, one unenhanced CT and one contrast-enhanced CT were taken using oral and intravenous contrast. Then, a 3D-CRT plan and an Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)/VMAT plan were generated in the enhanced CT, and the dose distribution was recalculated in the respective unenhanced CT. The beam intensities were kept the same as for the enhanced CT plans. Finally, the unenhanced and enhanced plans were compared by calculating the gamma index.

Results:

For 3D-CRT plans, there were statistically significant differences in second phase planning target volume (PTV) D2% (Mean difference (MD) between unenhanced and enhanced CT 0·01 Gy, 95% CI [0·003 to 0·02 Gy]) and in maximum doses to the bladder (MD 0·26 Gy, 95% CI [0·05 to 0·47 Gy]). For IMRT/VMAT plans, there were statistically significant differences in small intestine V45 Gy (MD 3·1 cc, 95% CI [0·81 to 5·4 cc]), bladder V45 Gy (MD 2·9%, 95% CI [1·4 to 4·3%]) and maximum dose to the bladder (MD 0·65 Gy, 95% CI [0·46 Gy to 0·85 Gy]). In addition, for PTV D98% the MD between unenhanced and enhanced CT was 0·22 Gy 95% CI [0·05 to 0·39].

Conclusions:

For most of the dose metrics, the differences were not clinically meaningful. The greatest differences were found in VMAT plans, especially in V45 Gy of the small intestine. This difference could lead to an underestimation of dose–volume metrics when the plan is based on an enhanced CT. The use of small bowel oral contrast does not significantly influence dose calculations and may not affect the acceptability of plans when adhering to constraints.
Pan-Src kinase inhibitor treatment attenuates diabetic kidney injury via inhibition of Fyn kinase-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Dorotea Debra , Jiang Songling , Pak Eun Seon , Son Jung Beom , Choi Hwan Geun , Ahn Sung-Min , Ha Hunjoo
Published: August 2022

Src family kinases (SFKs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis. However, the specific mechanism by which SFKs contribute to the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains unclear. Our preliminary transcriptome analysis suggested that SFK expression was increased in diabetic kidneys and that the expression of Fyn (a member of the SFKs), along with genes related to unfolded protein responses from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress signaling pathway, was upregulated in the tubules of human diabetic kidneys. Thus, we examined whether SFK-induced ER stress is associated with DKD progression. Mouse proximal tubular (mProx24) cells were transfected with Fyn or Lyn siRNA and exposed to high glucose and palmitate (HG-Pal). Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were treated with KF-1607, a novel pan-Src kinase inhibitor (SKI) with low toxicity. The effect of KF-1607 was compared to that of losartan, a standard treatment for patients with DKD. Among the SFK family members, the Fyn and Lyn kinases were upregulated under diabetic stress. HG-Pal induced p70S6 kinase and JNK/CHOP signaling and promoted tubular injury. Fyn knockdown but not Lyn knockdown inhibited this detrimental signaling pathway. In addition, diabetic rats treated with KF-1607 showed improved kidney function and decreased ER stress, inflammation, and fibrosis compared with those treated with losartan. Collectively, these findings indicate that Fyn kinase is a specific member of the SFKs implicated in ER stress activation leading to proximal tubular injury in the diabetic milieu and that pan-SKI treatment attenuates kidney injury in diabetic rats. These data highlight Fyn kinase as a viable target for the development of therapeutic agents for DKD.
Exposure modelling in Europe: how to pave the road for the future as part of the European Exposure Science Strategy 2020–2030
Authors: Schlüter Urs , Meyer Jessica , Ahrens Andreas , Borghi Francesca , Clerc Frédéric , Delmaar Christiaan , Di Guardo Antonio , Dudzina Tatsiana , Fantke Peter , Fransman Wouter , Hahn Stefan , Heussen Henri , Jung Christian , Koivisto Joonas , Koppisch Dorothea , Paini Alicia , Savic Nenad , Spinazzè Andrea , Zare Jeddi Maryam , von Goetz Natalie
Published: August 2022

Exposure models are essential in almost all relevant contexts for exposure science. To address the numerous challenges and gaps that exist, exposure modelling is one of the priority areas of the European Exposure Science Strategy developed by the European Chapter of the International Society of Exposure Science (ISES Europe). A strategy was developed for the priority area of exposure modelling in Europe with four strategic objectives. These objectives are (1) improvement of models and tools, (2) development of new methodologies and support for understudied fields, (3) improvement of model use and (4) regulatory needs for modelling. In a bottom-up approach, exposure modellers from different European countries and institutions who are active in the fields of occupational, population and environmental exposure science pooled their expertise under the umbrella of the ISES Europe Working Group on exposure models. This working group assessed the state-of-the-art of exposure modelling in Europe by developing an inventory of exposure models used in Europe and reviewing the existing literature on pitfalls for exposure modelling, in order to identify crucial modelling-related strategy elements. Decisive actions were defined for ISES Europe stakeholders, including collecting available models and accompanying information in a living document curated and published by ISES Europe, as well as a long-term goal of developing a best-practices handbook. Alongside these actions, recommendations were developed and addressed to stakeholders outside of ISES Europe. Four strategic objectives were identified with an associated action plan and roadmap for the implementation of the European Exposure Science Strategy for exposure modelling. This strategic plan will foster a common understanding of modelling-related methodology, terminology and future research in Europe, and have a broader impact on strategic considerations globally.
CAF08 adjuvant enables single dose protection against respiratory syncytial virus infection in murine newborns
Authors: van Haren Simon D. , Pedersen Gabriel K. , Kumar Azad , Ruckwardt Tracy J. , Moin Syed , Moore Ian N. , Minai Mahnaz , Liu Mark , Pak Jensen , Borriello Francesco , Doss-Gollin Simon , Beijnen Elisabeth M. S. , Ahmed Saima , Helmel Michaela , Andersen Peter , Graham Barney S. , Steen Hanno , Christensen Dennis , Levy Ofer
Published: August 2022

Respiratory syncytial virus is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children, due in part to their distinct immune system, characterized by impaired induction of Th 1 immunity. Here we show application of cationic adjuvant formulation CAF08, a liposomal vaccine formulation tailored to induce Th 1 immunity in early life via synergistic engagement of Toll-like Receptor 7/8 and the C-type lectin receptor Mincle. We apply quantitative phosphoproteomics to human dendritic cells and reveal a role for Protein Kinase C-δ for enhanced Th1 cytokine production in neonatal dendritic cells and identify signaling events resulting in antigen cross-presentation. In a murine in vivo model a single immunization at birth with CAF08-adjuvanted RSV pre-fusion antigen protects newborn mice from RSV infection by induction of antigen-specific CD8+T-cells and Th1 cells. Overall, we describe a pediatric adjuvant formulation and characterize its mechanism of action providing a promising avenue for development of early life vaccines against RSV and other respiratory viral pathogens.
Coherent helicity-dependent spin-phonon oscillations in the ferromagnetic van der Waals crystal CrI3
Authors: Padmanabhan P. , Buessen F. L. , Tutchton R. , Kwock K. W. C. , Gilinsky S. , Lee M. C. , McGuire M. A. , Singamaneni S. R. , Yarotski D. A. , Paramekanti A. , Zhu J.-X. , Prasankumar R. P.
Published: August 2022

The discovery of two-dimensional systems hosting intrinsic magnetic order represents a seminal addition to the rich landscape of van der Waals materials. CrI3 is an archetypal example, where the interdependence of structure and magnetism, along with strong light-matter interactions, provides a new platform to explore the optical control of magnetic and vibrational degrees of freedom at the nanoscale. However, the nature of magneto-structural coupling on its intrinsic ultrafast timescale remains a crucial open question. Here, we probe magnetic and vibrational dynamics in bulk CrI3 using ultrafast optical spectroscopy, revealing spin-flip scattering-driven demagnetization and strong transient exchange-mediated interactions between lattice vibrations and spin oscillations. The latter yields a coherent spin-coupled phonon mode that is highly sensitive to the driving pulse’s helicity in the magnetically ordered phase. Our results elucidate the nature of ultrafast spin-lattice coupling in CrI3 and highlight its potential for applications requiring high-speed control of magnetism at the nanoscale.
A summary index derived from Kinect to evaluate postural abnormalities severity in Parkinson’s Disease patients
Authors: Hong Ronghua , Zhang Tianyu , Zhang Zhuoyu , Wu Zhuang , Lin Ao , Su Xiaoyun , Jin Yue , Gao Yichen , Peng Kangwen , Li Lixi , Pan Lizhen , Zhi Hongping , Guan Qiang , Jin Lingjing
Published: August 2022

Postural abnormalities are common disabling motor complications affecting patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). We proposed a summary index for postural abnormalities (IPA) based on Kinect depth camera and explored the clinical value of this indicator. Seventy individuals with PD and thirty age-matched healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. All participants were tested using a Kinect-based system with IPA automatically obtained by algorithms. Significant correlations were detected between IPA and the Movement Disorder Society-Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) total score (rs = 0.369, p = 0.002), MDS-UPDRS-III total score (rs = 0.431, p < 0.001), MDS-UPDRS-III 3.13 score (rs = 0.573, p < 0.001), MDS-UPDRS-III-bradykinesia score (rs = 0.311, p = 0.010), the 39-item Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) (rs = 0.272, p = 0.0027) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score (rs = −0.350, p = 0.006). The optimal cut-off value of IPA for distinguishing PD from HCs was 12.96 with a sensitivity of 97.14%, specificity of 100.00%, area under the curve (AUC) of 0.999 (0.997–1.002, p < 0.001), and adjusted AUC of 0.998 (0.993–1.000, p < 0.001). The optimal cut-off value of IPA for distinguishing between PD with and without postural abnormalities was 20.14 with a sensitivity, specificity, AUC and adjusted AUC of 77.78%, 73.53%, 0.817 (0.720–0.914, p < 0.001), and 0.783 (0.631–0.900, p < 0.001), respectively. IPA was significantly correlated to the clinical manifestations of PD patients, and could reflect the global severity of postural abnormalities in PD with important value in distinguishing PD from HCs and distinguishing PD with postural abnormalities from those without.
Structural insights into auxin recognition and efflux by Arabidopsis PIN1
Authors: Yang Zhisen , Xia Jing , Hong Jingjing , Zhang Chenxi , Wei Hong , Ying Wei , Sun Chunqiao , Sun Lianghanxiao , Mao Yanbo , Gao Yongxiang , Tan Shutang , Friml Jiří , Li Dianfan , Liu Xin , Sun Linfeng
Published: August 2022

Polar auxin transport is unique to plants and coordinates their growth and development1,2. The PIN-FORMED (PIN) auxin transporters exhibit highly asymmetrical localizations at the plasma membrane and drive polar auxin transport3,4; however, their structures and transport mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we report three inward-facing conformation structures of Arabidopsis thaliana PIN1: the apo state, bound to the natural auxin indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and in complex with the polar auxin transport inhibitor N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA). The transmembrane domain of PIN1 shares a conserved NhaA fold5. In the substrate-bound structure, IAA is coordinated by both hydrophobic stacking and hydrogen bonding. NPA competes with IAA for the same site at the intracellular pocket, but with a much higher affinity. These findings inform our understanding of the substrate recognition and transport mechanisms of PINs and set up a framework for future research on directional auxin transport, one of the most crucial processes underlying plant development.
Correlation of weight and body composition with disease progression rate in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Li Jin-Yue , Sun Xiao-Han , Cai Zheng-Yi , Shen Dong-chao , Yang Xun-Zhe , Liu Ming-Sheng , Cui Li-Ying
Published: August 2022

This study aims to observe the nutritional status of Chinese patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), further investigating its effect on disease progression. One hundred consecutive newly diagnosed ALS patients and fifty controls were included. Weight and body composition were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis at baseline and follow-ups. The revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) was used to calculate the rate of disease progression. Patients with ALS had a significantly lower BMI than controls, while no significant difference was found in body composition. Weight loss occurred in 66 (66%) and 52 (67.5%) patients at diagnosis and follow-up, respectively. Patients with significant weight loss (≥ 5%) at diagnosis had significantly lower BMI, fat mass (FM), and FM in limbs and trunk than those without. Fat-free mass (FFM), FM, and FM in limbs were significantly decreased along with weight loss at follow-up (p < 0.01). Patients with lower visceral fat index, lower proportion of FM, and higher proportion of muscle mass at baseline progressed rapidly during follow-ups (p < 0.05). Multivariate linear regression showed that FFM and weight at follow-up were independently correlated with disease progression rate at follow-up (p < 0.05). Weight loss is a common feature in ALS patients, along with muscle and fat wasting during the disease course. Body composition may serve as a prognostic factor and provide guidance for nutritional management in ALS patients.
Biodegradation of high molecular weight hydrocarbons under saline condition by halotolerant Bacillus subtilis and its mixed cultures with Pseudomonas species
Authors: Ghorbannezhad Hassan , Moghimi Hamid , Dastgheib Seyed Mohammad Mehdi
Published: August 2022

Biodegradation of high-molecular-weight petroleum hydrocarbons in saline conditions appears to be complicated and requires further investigation. This study used heavy crude oil to enrich petroleum-degrading bacteria from oil-contaminated saline soils. Strain HG 01, with 100% sequence similarity to Bacillussubtilis, grew at a wide range of salinities and degraded 55.5 and 77.2% of 500 mg/l pyrene and 500 mg/l tetracosane, respectively, at 5% w/v NaCl. Additionally, a mixed-culture of HG 01 with Pseudomonasputida and Pseudomonasaeruginosa, named TMC, increased the yield of pyrene, and tetracosane degradation by about 20%. Replacing minimal medium with treated seawater (C/N/P adjusted to 100/10/1) enabled TMC to degrade more than 99% of pyrene and tetracosane, but TMC had lesser degradation in untreated seawater than in minimal medium. Also, the degradation kinetics of pyrene and tetracosane were fitted to a first-order model. Compared to B.subtilis, TMC increased pyrene and tetracosane's removal rate constant (K1) from 0.063 and 0.110 per day to 0.123 and 0.246 per day. TMC also increased the maximum specific growth rate of B.subtilis, P.putida, and P.aeruginosa, respectively, 45% higher in pyrene, 24.5% in tetracosane, and 123.4% and 95.4% higher in pyrene and tetracosane.
Transcriptomic data exploration of consensus genes and molecular mechanisms between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Pang Kun , Feng Xinyu , Zeng Yulan
Published: August 2022

Most current research has focused on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) alone; however, it is important to understand the complex mechanism of COPD progression to LUAD. This study is the first to explore the unique and jointly molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of COPD and LUAD across several datasets based on a variety of analysis methods. We used weighted correlation network analysis to search hub genes in two datasets from public databases: GSE10072 and GSE76925. We explored the unique and jointly molecular mechanistic signatures of the two diseases in pathogenesis through enrichment analysis, immune infiltration analysis, and therapeutic targets analysis. Finally, the results were confirmed using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Fifteen hub genes were identified: GPI, EZH2, EFNA4, CFB, ENO1, SH3PXD2B, SELL, CORIN, MAD2L1, CENPF, TOP2A, ASPM, IGFBP2, CDKN2A, and ELF3. For the first time, SELL, CORIN, GPI, and EFNA4 were found to play a role in the etiology of COPD and LUAD. The LUAD genes identified were primarily involved in the cell cycle and DNA replication processes; COPD genes we found were related to ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, ribosome, and T/B-cell receptor signaling pathways. The tumor microenvironment of LUAD pathogenesis was influenced by CD4 + T cells, type 1 regulatory T cells, and T helper 1 cells. T follicular helper cells, natural killer T cells, and B cells all impact the immunological inflammation in COPD. The results of drug targets analysis suggest that cisplatin and tretinoin, as well as bortezomib and metformin may be potential targeted therapy for patients with COPD combined LUAD. These signatures may be provided a new direction for developing early interventions and treatments to improve the prognosis of COPD and LUAD.
A multi modal approach to microstructure evolution and mechanical response of additive friction stir deposited AZ31B Mg alloy
Authors: Joshi Sameehan S. , Sharma Shashank , Radhakrishnan M. , Pantawane Mangesh V. , Patil Shreyash M. , Jin Yuqi , Yang Teng , Riley Daniel A. , Banerjee Rajarshi , Dahotre Narendra B.
Published: August 2022

Current work explored solid-state additive manufacturing of AZ31B-Mg alloy using additive friction stir deposition. Samples with relative densities ≥ 99.4% were additively produced. Spatial and temporal evolution of temperature during additive friction stir deposition was predicted using multi-layer computational process model. Microstructural evolution in the additively fabricated samples was examined using electron back scatter diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Mechanical properties of the additive samples were evaluated by non-destructive effective bulk modulus elastography and destructive uni-axial tensile testing. Additively produced samples experienced evolution of predominantly basal texture on the top surface and a marginal increase in the grain size compared to feed stock. Transmission electron microscopy shed light on fine scale precipitation of Mg$$_{17}$$

17

Al$$_{12}$$

12

within feed stock and additive samples. The fraction of Mg$$_{17}$$

17

Al$$_{12}$$

12

reduced in the additively produced samples compared to feed stock. The bulk dynamic modulus of the additive samples was slightly lower than the feed stock. There was a $$\sim\,$$

∼

30 MPa reduction in 0.2% proof stress and a 10–30 MPa reduction in ultimate tensile strength for the additively produced samples compared to feed stock. The elongation of the additive samples was 4–10% lower than feed stock. Such a property response for additive friction stir deposited AZ31B-Mg alloy was realized through distinct thermokinetics driven multi-scale microstructure evolution.
A highly selective silver ion optical chemosensor based on isoxazolyl-azo pyrimidine: synthesis, spectroscopy, DFT calculations and applications
Authors: Chounechenan Sobhan Asadpour , Mohammadi Asadollah , Khalili Behzad
Published: August 2022

The probe PICS was prepared for the highly selective and sensitive detection of Ag+ ions in solution.
A plasmonic AgNP decorated heterostructure substrate for synergetic surface-enhanced Raman scattering identification and quantification of pesticide residues in real samples
Authors: Li Xueting , Xu Chenyue , Yan Lan , Feng Yating , Li Haoyue , Ye Cheng , Zhang Maofeng , Jiang Changlong , Li Jianhua , Wu Yucheng
Published: August 2022

A schematic illustration of our portable SERS sensor for multiplex identification and quantitative detection in plant leaves.
A periodic table for liquid chromatography separation modes
Authors: Analytical Methods Committee, AMCTB No. 111
Published: August 2022

This technical brief describes a tool in the form of a “periodic table” to assist in optimizing liquid chromatography separations selected by following the guidance provided in AMCTB No. 107.
Palladium-catalyzed oxidative C–H activation/annulation ofN-alkylanilines with bromoalkynes: access to functionalized 3-bromoindoles
Authors: Fang Songjia , Chen Wenhao , Jiang Huanfeng , Ma Ruize , Wu Wanqing
Published: August 2022

A convenient and straightforward entry to 3-bromoindolesviapalladium-catalyzed oxidative C–H activation/annulation ofN-alkylanilines and bromoalkynes has been established.