bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and property characterization of ternary laminar Zr2SB ceramic
Authors: Zhang Qiqiang , Fu Shuai , Wan Detian , Bao Yiwang , Feng Qingguo , Grasso Salvatore , Hu Chunfeng
Published: April 2022

In this paper, Zr2SB ceramic with purity of 82.95 wt% (containing 8.96 wt% ZrB2 and 8.09 wt% zirconium) and high relative density (99.03%) was successfully synthesized from ZrH2, sublimated sulfur, and boron powders by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1300 °C. The reaction process, microstructure, and physical and mechanical properties of Zr2SB ceramic were systematically studied. The results show that the optimum molar ratio to synthesize Zr2SB is n(ZrH2):n(S):n(B) = 1.4:1.6:0.7. The average grain size of Zr2SB is 12.46 µm in length and 5.12 µm in width, and the mean grain sizes of ZrB2 and zirconium impurities are about 300 nm. In terms of physical properties, the measured thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) is 7.64×10−6 K−1 from room temperature to 1200 °C, and the thermal capacity and thermal conductivity at room temperature are 0.39 J·g−1·K−1 and 12.01 W·m−1·K−1, respectively. The room temperature electrical conductivity of Zr2SB ceramic is measured to be 1.74×106 Ω−1·m−1. In terms of mechanical properties, Vickers hardness is 9.86±0.63 GPa under 200 N load, and the measured flexural strength, fracture toughness, and compressive strength are 269±12.7 MPa, 3.94±0.63 MPa·m1/2, and 2166.74±291.34 MPa, respectively.
Adsorption of 4-Nitrophenol onto Iron Oxide Bentonite Nanocomposite: Process Optimization, Kinetics, Isotherms and Mechanism
Authors: Ewis Dina , Ba-Abbad Muneer M. , Benamor Abdelbaki , Mahmud Nafis , Nasser Mustafa , El-Naas Muftah , Mohammad Abdul Wahab
Published: April 2022

Despite its importance in chemical industry, 4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) is a persistent organic pollutant that has serious effects on the ecosystem. In the present study, Box–Behnken design in response surface methodology was used to optimize the adsorption process parameters for the maximum 4-NP removal at 30 ℃ using Fe3O4/Bt NC. The regression model results suggested that the optimum adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, pH and contact time were 0.3182 g, 85 mg/L, 11 and 137.2 min, respectively. The regression model showed an optimum removal of 100%, while 99.5% removal was obtained from batch experiments at the optimum conditions suggested by the regression model, which confirm the model validity. The adsorption data best fitted to Freundlich isotherm model and Pseudo second-order kinetic model suggesting the existence of physical and chemical interaction between the fabricated composite and 4-NP. FTIR analysis suggested that the adsorption mechanism included an electrostatic attraction and the formation of new chemical bonds. Obtained results suggest that Fe3O4/Bt NC can be an effective adsorbent for complete 4-NP removal at the indicated optimum conditions.

Graphical Abstract
An Entangled Pedagogy: Looking Beyond the Pedagogy—Technology Dichotomy
Authors: Fawns Tim
Published: April 2022

‘Pedagogy first’ has become a mantra for educators, supported by the metaphor of the ‘pedagogical horse’ driving the ‘technological cart’. Yet putting technology firstorlast separates it from pedagogy, making us susceptible to technological or pedagogical determinism (i.e. where technology is seen either as the driving force of change or as a set of neutral tools). In this paper, I present a model of entangled pedagogy that encapsulates the mutual shaping of technology, teaching methods, purposes, values and context. Entangled pedagogy is collective, and agency is negotiated between teachers, students and other stakeholders. Outcomes are contingent on complex relations and cannot be determined in advance. I then outline an aspirational view of how teachers, students and others can collaborate whilst embracing uncertainty, imperfection, openness and honesty, and developing pedagogical knowledge that is collective, responsive and ethical. Finally, I discuss implications for evaluation and research, arguing that we must look beyond isolated ideas of technologies or teaching methods, to the situated, entangled combinations of diverse elements involved in educational activity.
The NJ Alliance for Clinical and Translational Science (NJ ACTS) experience: Responding at “warp speed” to COVID-19
Authors: Thaman Pragya , Tafuto Barbara , Gélinas Céline , Gaur Sunanda , Neubauer Judith A.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic’s need for life-saving treatments and a "warp speed" vaccine challenged the National Institutes of Health’s Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) recipients to improve their methods and processes in conducting clinical research. While CTSA recipient, New Jersey Alliance for Clinical and Translational Science (NJ ACTS), responded to this call to action with significant clinical research milestones, a comprehensive understanding of regulatory metrics during the COVID-19 pandemic is uncertain. The objective of this research is to identify, compare, and contrast metrics that illustrate the effectiveness of NJ ACTS’s research mobilization efforts during COVID-19.

Methods:

Data were collected from the Institutional Review Board (IRB), the Clinical Research Units (CRUs), and the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP). IRB data detailed the volume and types of protocols approved and turnaround time (TAT) for approval in 2020 vs. 2019. CRU data examined study metrics of adult and pediatric clinical trials across 2018-2020. ORSP data documented awards received in 2019 and 2020

Results:

Analysis revealed a 95% increase in IRB-approved studies in 2020, with a significant decrease in TAT for COVID-19 studies. All CRUs observed a median 5.2-fold increase in the enrollment of adult and pediatric participants for COVID-19-related research. Study income was 106% and 196% greater than 2019 and 2018, respectively, with more than half funded through federal sponsors and 89% for COVID-19 trials. ORSP data revealed that 9% of awards and 26% of 2020 funding were COVID-19 studies.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that NJACTS effectively responded to challenges posed by the pandemic
Cancer mutation profiles predict ICIs efficacy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhu Liping , Ye Dafu , Lei Tianyu , Wu Jie , Wang Wei , Xu Bin
Published: April 2022

Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have produced remarkable responses in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, receivers still have a relatively low response rate. Initial response assessment by conventional imaging and evaluation criteria is often unable to identify whether patients can achieve durable clinical benefit from ICIs. Overall, there are sparse effective biomarkers identified to screen NSCLC patients responding to this therapy. A lot of studies have reported that patients with specific gene mutations may benefit from or resist to immunotherapy. However, the single gene mutation may be not effective enough to predict the benefit from immunotherapy for patients. With the advancement in sequencing technology, further studies indicate that many mutations often co-occur and suggest a drastic transformation of tumour microenvironment phenotype. Moreover, co-mutation events have been reported to synergise to activate or suppress signalling pathways of anti-tumour immune response, which also indicates a potential target for combining intervention. Thus, the different mutation profile (especially co-mutation) of patients may be an important concern for predicting or promoting the efficacy of ICIs. However, there is a lack of comprehensive knowledge of this field until now. Therefore, in this study, we reviewed and elaborated the value of cancer mutation profile in predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy and analysed the underlying mechanisms, to provide an alternative way for screening dominant groups, and thereby, optimising individualised therapy for NSCLC patients.
Boundaries and Belonging Among Settled Minorities and Refugees in Bulgaria
Authors: Carlsson Nina
Published: April 2022

The importance of settled minorities for facilitating refugee belonging is seldom discussed in research on refugee integration. Drawing on scholarship on belonging, boundary-making, and bordering, this study investigates how boundaries are drawn between settled minorities and refugees in Bulgaria. Based on interviews with integration workers and organizations of settled minorities in a state with the largest historically present Muslim minority in the EU, an Arabic-speaking diaspora settled decades ago, and with minimal state involvement in refugee integration, the study shows how spatial, linguistic, and religious boundaries separate settled minorities from newly arrived refugees. Arabic-speaking diasporas are nevertheless witnessed to overcome the boundaries through geographical proximity, a shared language, and shared countries of origin, whereby they have functioned as facilitators of refugee belonging and inclusion. Furthermore, Muslim institutions led by Bulgarian Turks have functioned as spaces for refugee belonging. The study finds that settled minority communities have, despite multiple boundaries and some assimilatory discourses, contributed to refugee belonging in ways that in part has compensated for the state absence. The study calls for further research investigating the role of settled minorities in inclusionary processes in society.
Iodine fortification of plant-based dairy and fish alternatives: the effect of substitution on iodine intake based on a market survey in the UK
Authors: Nicol Katie , Thomas Eva-Leanne , Nugent Anne P. , Woodside Jayne V. , Hart Kathryn H. , Bath Sarah C.
Published: April 2022

Milk, dairy products, and fish are the main sources of iodine in the UK. Plant-based products are increasingly popular, especially with young women, which may affect iodine intake as they are naturally low in iodine; this is concerning as iodine is required for fetal brain development. We, aimed to (i) assess the iodine fortification of products sold as alternatives to milk, yoghurt, cheese and fish through a cross-sectional survey of UK retail outlets in 2020, and (ii) model the impact of substitution with such products on iodine intake, using portion-based scenarios. We identified 300 products, including plant-based alternatives to: (i) milk (n 146); (ii) yoghurt (n 76); (iii) cheese (n 67) and (iv) fish (n 11). After excluding organic products (n 48), which cannot be fortified, only 28 % (n 29) of milk alternatives and 6 % (n 4) of yoghurt alternatives were fortified with iodine, compared with 88 % (n 92) and 73 % (n 51), respectively, with Ca. No cheese alternative was fortified with iodine, but 55 % were fortified with Ca. None of the fish alternatives were iodine fortified. Substitution of three portions of dairy product (milk/yoghurt/cheese) per day with unfortified alternatives would reduce the iodine provided by 97·9 % (124 v. 2·6 µg) and substantially reduce the contribution to the adult intake recommendation (150 µg/d; 83 v. 1·8 %). Our study highlights that the majority of plant-based alternatives are not iodine fortified and that the use of unfortified alternatives put consumers at risk of iodine deficiency.
Sanitation is the greatest concern in outdoor cat management but ecological message frames promote biodiversity conservation in Japan
Authors: Mameno Kota , Kubo Takahiro , Suzuki Takaaki , Tsuge Takahiro , Shoji Yasushi
Published: April 2022

Message framing contributes to an increase in public support for invasive species management. However, little is known about people’s preferences for the multiple objectives of management within different contexts relating to the challenges and benefits of invasive species management. We examine Japanese citizens’ preferences for the goals of free-roaming unowned cat (Felis catus) management in three contextual frames by applying experimentally controlled information and the best–worst scaling technique. Our results indicate that the ecological frame highlighting the ecological impacts of free-roaming unowned cats on native ecosystems significantly increases Japanese citizens’ concern about cat predation, although the frame did not change the preference ranking of goals. There are differences in the effects of message framing depending on cat ownership. The best–worst scaling technique shows that Japanese citizens prefer to maintain a sanitary environment, followed by the prevention of zoonotic diseases. Although the ranking of sanitary environmental management does not depend on cat ownership, the ranking of the other goals differs depending on cat ownership. The findings highlight the importance of strategic message framing and its prioritization in encouraging public support for invasive species management.
Effects of Vegetation Changes and Multiple Environmental Factors on Evapotranspiration Across China Over the Past 34 Years
Authors: Zheng Haiyan , Miao Chiyuan , Li Xiaoyan , Kong Dongxian , Gou Jiaojiao , Wu Jingwen , Zhang Shuping
Published: April 2022

Documenting the spatiotemporal changes in vegetation cover and hydrological cycle of the Earth system and understanding how they interact are important especially under climate warming. In this research, we quantified the changes in vegetation and evapotranspiration (E) across China during 1982–2015 and then revealed the complex relationships in climate–vegetation–evapotranspiration system. Results show that the upward trend in vegetation leaf area index (LAI) during 2000–2015 (an increase of 0.95% per year) was almost 8 times the trend during 1982–1999. The zones of the Loess Plateau and the Three‐North Shelter Forest Program are the most notable areas for LAI increases between these two periods, with increases of 11.65% and 2.87%, respectively. Increased LAI, along with the warming climate, has accelerated E across China in the past several decades, and the annual increase in the E rate was 0.34% (1.34 mm year−1) during 1982–1999 and 0.40% (1.62 mm year−1) during 2000–2015. The zones of the Loess Plateau and the karst landform are the most notable areas for transpiration increases, with individual increases of 10% and 5%, respectively. In general, the dominant causes for evaporation changes across all of China are temperature and precipitation, while the main reasons for transpiration changes include temperature, LAI, and sunshine duration. This study improves our understanding of the relationships within the climate–vegetation–evapotranspiration system and provides important support for future ecological policies across China.
Phosphorus and Life on a Water World
Authors: Filippelli Gabriel M.
Published: April 2022

On Earth, the major mechanism for providing the vital limiting nutrient phosphorus necessary to fuel biological productivity and the long arc of evolution is weathering of exposed continental rocks. It has been presumed that life may not be present on exoplanets with substantially more water than Earth. Many of these “Water Worlds” exist, but without exposed land mass for weathering, there is not a viable mechanism for nutrient delivery and climate stabilization. In novel laboratory experiments performed in chambers designed to mimic the weathering of seafloor basalts in anoxic conditions, Syverson et al. (2021, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021GL094442) found that silicate weathering in these conditions release an adequate amount of phosphorus to fuel a robust biosphere, at least in an idealized system. Perhaps we shouldn't rule out “Water Worlds” as potential harbors for life after all?
Physics‐Based Model Reconciles Caldera Collapse Induced Static and Dynamic Ground Motion: Application to Kīlauea 2018
Authors: Wang Taiyi A. , Coppess Katherine R. , Segall Paul , Dunham Eric M. , Ellsworth William
Published: April 2022

Inflationary deformation and very long period (VLP) earthquakes frequently accompany basaltic caldera collapses, yet current interpretations do not reflect physically consistent mechanisms. We present a lumped parameter model accounting for caldera block/magma momentum change, magma chamber pressurization, and ring fault (assumed vertical) shear stress drop. Pressurization of the underlying magma chamber is represented by a tri‐axial expansion source, and the combined caldera block/magma momentum change by a vertical single force. The model is applied to Kīlauea 2018 caldera collapse events, accurately predicting near field static/dynamic ground motions. In addition to the tri‐axial expansion source, the single force contributes significantly to the VLP waveforms. For an average collapse event with fully developed ring fault, Bayesian inversion constrains ring fault stress drop to ∼0.4 MPa and the pressure increase to ∼1.9 MPa. That the predictions fit both geodetic and seismic observations confirms that the model captures the dominant caldera collapse mechanisms.
The Role of Seasonal Sediment Transport and Sintering in Shaping Titan's Landscapes: A Hypothesis
Authors: Lapôtre Mathieu G. A. , Malaska Michael J. , Cable Morgan L.
Published: April 2022

Titan is a sedimentary world, with lakes, rivers, canyons, fans, dissected plateaux, and sand dunes. Sediments on Saturn's moon are thought to largely consist of mechanically weak organic grains, prone to rapid abrasion into dust. Yet, Titan's equatorial dunes have likely been active for 10s–100s kyr. Sustaining Titan's dunes over geologic timescales requires a mechanism that produces sand‐sized particles at equatorial latitudes. We explore the hypothesis that a combination of abrasion, when grains are transported by winds or methane rivers, and sintering, when they are at rest, could produce sand grains that maintain an equilibrium size. Our model demonstrates that seasonal sediment transport may produce sand under Titan's surface conditions and could explain the latitudinal zonation of Titan's landscapes. Our findings support the hypothesis of global, source‐to‐sink sedimentary pathways on Titan, driven by seasons, and mediated by episodic abrasion and sintering of organic sand by rivers and winds.
Centroid Moment Tensor Catalog With 3D Lithospheric Wave Speed Model: The 2016–2017 Central Apennines Sequence
Authors: Artale Harris P. , Scognamiglio L. , Magnoni F. , Casarotti E. , Tinti E.
Published: April 2022

Moment tensor inversions of broadband velocity data are usually managed by adopting Green's functions for 1D layered seismic wave speed models. This assumption can impact on source parameter estimates in regions with complex 3D heterogeneous structures and discontinuities in rock properties. In this work, we present a new centroid moment tensor (CMT) catalog for the Amatrice‐Visso‐Norcia (AVN) seismic sequence based on a recently generated 3D wave speed model for the Italian lithosphere. Forward synthetic seismograms and Fréchet derivatives for CMT‐3D inversions of 159 earthquakes with Mw ≥ 3.0 are simulated using a spectral‐element method (SEM) code. By comparing the retrieved solutions with those from time domain moment tensor (TDMT) catalog, obtained with a 1D wave speed model calibrated for Central Apennines (Italy), we observe a remarkable degree of consistency in terms of source geometry, kinematics, and magnitude. Significant differences are found in centroid depths, which are more accurately estimated using the 3D model. Finally, we present a newly designed parameter, τ, to better quantify and compare a‐posteriori the reliability of the obtained MT solutions. τ measures the goodness of fit between observed and synthetic seismograms accounting for differences in amplitude, arrival time, percentage of fitted seconds, and the usual L2‐norm estimate. The CMT‐3D solutions represent the first Italian CMT catalog based on a full‐waveform 3D wave speed model. They provide reliable source parameters with potential implications for the structures activated during the sequence. The developed approach can be readily applied to more complex Italian regions where 1D models are underperforming and not representative of the area.
Intra‐Annual Variation of High and Low‐Flow Extremes Associated With Land Use and Climate Change in the Upper Tekeze of the Nile River Basin
Authors: Reda Kidane Welde , Liu Xingcai , Tang Qiuhong
Published: April 2022

In northern Ethiopian highlands, climate variability and land use/land cover (LULC) change has been observed during the past decades. However, it remains unclear that to which extent and how these key drivers contributed to changes in hydrological extremes. As a case study, the respective impacts of LULC change and climate variability on hydrological extremes with respect to magnitude, duration, and frequency metrics were assessed in the Upper Tekeze basin, Ethiopia. A scenario‐based approach using LULC and hydro‐climatological data was developed and five simulation experiments were conducted using Soil and Water Assessment Tool model. Results showed that, during 1986–2015, low‐flow duration has decreased by 5.0 days/yr, and the magnitude and occurrence of high flow has increased by 5.23 m3/s/yr and 5.11 days/yr, respectively. Meanwhile, about 47.42% of the landscape has changed its category while no significant change was detected in annual rainfall during the past 31 yr. Particularly, rocky area increased by 82% which was mostly contributed by losses of bare, sand, and low biomass areas. Significant positive and negative contributions to the changes in high and low‐flow extremes, respectively, were detected from LULC change, while no significant contribution was detected from climate change. The increased rock area tends to be one of the major contributors to the increased high flow while climate change seemed to play a minor role. The potential mechanism is the expansion in rock area increased runoff and high flow, which may lead to significant land deterioration and loss of water storage capacity in the mountainous basin.
Probabilistic Description of Streamflow and Active Length Regimes in Rivers
Authors: Durighetto Nicola , Mariotto Veronica , Zanetti Francesca , McGuire Kevin J. , Mendicino Giuseppe , Senatore Alfonso , Botter Gianluca
Published: April 2022

In spite of the prevalence of temporary rivers over a wide range of climatic conditions, they represent a relatively understudied fraction of the global river network. Here, we exploit a well‐established hydrological model and a derived distribution approach to develop a coupled probabilistic description for the dynamics of the catchment discharge and the corresponding active network length. Analytical expressions for the flow duration curve (FDC) and the stream length duration curve (SLDC) were derived and used to provide a consistent classification of streamflow and active length regimes in temporary rivers. Two distinct streamflow regimes (persistent and erratic) and three different types of active length regimes (ephemeral, perennial, and ephemeral de facto) were identified depending on the value of two dimensionless parameters. These key parameters, which are related to the underlying streamflow fluctuations and the sensitivity of active length to changes in the catchment discharge (here quantified by the scaling exponent b), originate seven different behavioral classes characterized by contrasting shapes of the underlying SLDCs and FDCs. The analytical model was tested using data gathered in three study catchments located in Italy and USA, with satisfactory model performances in most cases. Our analytical and empirical results show the existence of a structural relationship between streamflow and active length regimes, which is chiefly modulated by the scaling exponent b. The proposed framework represents a promising tool for the coupled analysis of discharge and river network length dynamics in temporary streams.
Testing a Machine Learning Approach to Geophysical Inversion
Authors: Rehnberg Morgan
Published: April 2022

Variational autoencoders can be leveraged to provide an effective method of inversion that is both accurate and computationally efficient.
On the Relation Between Basal Erosion of the Lithosphere and Surface Heat Flux for Continental Plume Tracks
Authors: Heyn Björn H. , Conrad Clinton P.
Published: April 2022

While hotspot tracks beneath thin oceanic lithosphere are visible as volcanic island chains, the plume‐lithosphere interaction for thick continental or cratonic lithosphere often remains hidden due to the lack of volcanism. To identify plume tracks with missing volcanism, we characterize the amplitude and timing of surface heat flux anomalies following a plume‐lithosphere interaction using mantle convection models. Our numerical results confirm an analytical relationship in which surface heat flux increases with the extent of lithosphere thinning, which is primarily controlled by the viscosity structure of the lower lithosphere and the asthenosphere. We find that lithosphere thinning is greatest when the plate is above the plume conduit, while the maximum heat flux anomaly occurs about 40–140 Myr later. Therefore, younger continental and cratonic plume tracks can be identified by observed lithosphere thinning, and older tracks by an increased surface heat flux, even if they lack extrusive magmatism.
The Scaling Relationship for the Length of Tributaries to Lakes
Authors: Seekell D. , Cael B. , Byström P.
Published: April 2022

Globally, the length of tributaries to lakes varies from 0 to more than 15,000 km, but scaling relationships describing this aspect of lake‐river connectivity are lacking. In this study, we describe a simple theoretical scaling relationship for tributary length based on the principle of line intercepts of topographic features, and test this theory using data from Scandinavia. Tributary length increases by 73% for each doubling of lake area. This pattern reflects the relationship between catchment and lake area, and is modified by inlet frequency, junction angle, and lake shape—factors related to specific geologic and hydrologic processes. The theory is precise (r2 = 0.74), with low bias (mean error is 14% of mean tributary length) when the characteristic junction angle (∼76°) is estimated statistically. Our study bridges the gap between geomorphic and large‐scale statistical relationships to provide simple rules for understanding complex patterns of lake‐river connectivity.
A genetic variant in IL-6 lowering its expression is protective for critical patients with COVID-19
Authors: Gong Bo , Huang Lulin , He Yongquan , Xie Wen , Yin Yi , Shi Yi , Xiao Jialing , Zhong Ling , Zhang Yi , Jiang Zhilin , Hao Fang , Zhou Yu , Li Huan , Jiang Li , Yang Xingxiang , Song Xiangrong , Kang Yan , Tuo Lin , Huang Yi , Shuai Ping , Liu Yuping , Zheng Fang , Yang Zhenglin
Published: April 2022

Critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with high mortality and potential genetic factors have been reported to be involved in the development of critical COVID-19. We performed a genome-wide association study to identify the genetic factors responsible for developing critical COVID-19. 632 critical patients with COVID-19 and 3021 healthy controls from the Chinese population were recruited. First, we identified a genome-wide significant difference of IL-6 rs2069837 (p = 9.73 × 10−15, OR = 0.41) between 437 critical patients with COVID-19 and 2551 normal controls in the discovery cohort. When replicated these findings in a set of 195 patients with critical COVID-19 and 470 healthy controls, we detected significant association of rs2069837 with COVID-19 (p = 8.89 × 10−3, OR = 0.67). This variant surpassed the formal threshold for genome-wide significance (combined p = 4.64 × 10−16, OR = 0.49). Further analysis revealed that there was a significantly stronger expression of IL-6 in the serum from patients with critical COVID-19 than in that from patients with asymptomatic COVID-19. An in vitro assay showed that the A to G allele changes in rs2069837 within IL-6 obviously decreased the luciferase expression activity. When analyzing the effect of this variant on the IL-6 in the serum based on the rs2069837 genotype, we found that the A to G variation in rs2069837 decreased the expression of IL-6, especially in the male. Overall, we identified a genetic variant in IL-6 that protects against critical conditions with COVID-19 though decreasing IL-6 expression in the serum.
Endometrial epithelial cells-derived exosomes deliver microRNA-30c to block the BCL9/Wnt/CD44 signaling and inhibit cell invasion and migration in ovarian endometriosis
Authors: Zhang Mengmeng , Wang Xi , Xia Xiaomeng , Fang Xiaoling , Zhang Tingting , Huang Fengying
Published: April 2022

Endometriosis (EMs) is a benign gynecological disorder showing some tumor-like migratory and invasive phenotypes. This study intended to investigate the role of microRNA-30c (miR-30c) in EMs, which is involved with B-cell lymphoma 9 (BCL9), an activator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. EMs specimens were clinically collected for determination of miR-30c and BCL9 expression. Exosomes were isolated from endometrial epithelial cells (EECs), and the uptake of exosomes by ectopic EECs (ecto-EECs) was characterized using fluorescence staining and confocal microscopy. The binding of miR-30c to BCL9 was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Artificial modulation (up- and down-regulation) of the miR-30c/BCL9/Wnt/CD44 regulatory cascade was performed to evaluate its effect on ecto-EEC invasion and migration, as detected by Transwell and wound healing assays. A mouse model of EMs was further established for in vivo substantiation. Reduced miR-30c expression and elevated BCL9 expression was revealed in EMs ectopic tissues and ecto-EECs. Normal EECs-derived exosomes delivered miR-30c to ecto-EECs to suppress their invasive and migratory potentials. Then, miR-30c was observed to inhibit biological behaviors of ecto-EECs by targeting BCL9, and the miR-30c-induced inhibitory effect was reversed by BCL9 overexpression. Further, miR-30c diminished the invasion and migration of ecto-EECs by blocking the BCL9/Wnt/CD44 axis. Moreover, miR-30c-loaded exosomes attenuated the metastasis of ecto-EEC ectopic nodules. miR-30c delivered by EECs-derived exosomes repressed BCL9 expression to block the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thus attenuating the tumor-like behaviors of ecto-EECs in EMs.
Zika virus infection accelerates Alzheimer’s disease phenotypes in brain organoids
Authors: Lee Seung-Eun , Choi Hanul , Shin Nari , Kong Dasom , Kim Nam Gyo , Kim Hee-Yeong , Kim Min-Ji , Choi Soon Won , Kim Young Bong , Kang Kyung-Sun
Published: April 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the progressive neurodegenerative diseases characterized by β-amyloid (Aβ) production and Phosphorylated-Tau (p-Tau) protein in the cerebral cortex. The precise mechanisms of the cause, responsible for disease pathology and progression, are not well understood because there are multiple risk factors associated with the disease. Viral infection is one of the risk factors for AD, and we demonstrated that Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in brain organoids could trigger AD pathological features, including Aβ and p-Tau expression. AD-related phenotypes in brain organoids were upregulated via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and unfolded protein response (UPR) after ZIKV infection in brain organoids. Under persistent ER stress, activated-double stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase-like ER-resident (PERK) triggered the phosphorylation of Eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α) and then BACE, and GSK3α/β related to AD. Furthermore, we demonstrated that pharmacological inhibitors of PERK attenuated Aβ and p-Tau in brain organoids after ZIKV infection.
An advanced computational intelligent framework to predict shear sonic velocity with application to mechanical rock classification
Authors: Safaei-Farouji Majid , Hasannezhad Meysam , Rahimzadeh Kivi Iman , Hemmati-Sarapardeh Abdolhossein
Published: April 2022

Shear sonic wave velocity (Vs) has a wide variety of implications, from reservoir management and development to geomechanical and geophysical studies. In the current study, two approaches were adopted to predict shear sonic wave velocities (Vs) from several petrophysical well logs, including gamma ray (GR), density (RHOB), neutron (NPHI), and compressional sonic wave velocity (Vp). For this purpose, five intelligent models of random forest (RF), extra tree (ET), Gaussian process regression (GPR), and the integration of adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) with differential evolution (DE) and imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) optimizers were implemented. In the first approach, the target was estimated based only on Vp, and the second scenario predicted Vs from the integration of Vp, GR, RHOB, and NPHI inputs. In each scenario, 8061 data points belonging to an oilfield located in the southwest of Iran were investigated. The ET model showed a lower average absolute percent relative error (AAPRE) compared to other models for both approaches. Considering the first approach in which the Vp was the only input, the obtained AAPRE values for RF, ET, GPR, ANFIS + DE, and ANFIS + ICA models are 1.54%, 1.34%, 1.54%, 1.56%, and 1.57%, respectively. In the second scenario, the achieved AAPRE values for RF, ET, GPR, ANFIS + DE, and ANFIS + ICA models are 1.25%, 1.03%, 1.16%, 1.63%, and 1.49%, respectively. The Williams plot proved the validity of both one-input and four-inputs ET model. Regarding the ET model constructed based on only one variable,Williams plot interestingly showed that all 8061 data points are valid data. Also, the outcome of the Leverage approach for the ET model designed with four inputs highlighted that there are only 240 “out of leverage” data sets. In addition, only 169 data are suspected. Also, the sensitivity analysis results typified that the Vp has a higher effect on the target parameter (Vs) than other implemented inputs. Overall, the second scenario demonstrated more satisfactory Vs predictions due to the lower obtained errors of its developed models. Finally, the two ET models with the linear regression model, which is of high interest to the industry, were applied to diagnose candidate layers along the formation for hydraulic fracturing. While the linear regression model fails to accurately trace variations of rock properties, the intelligent models successfully detect brittle intervals consistent with field measurements.
Black Kites on a flyway between Western Siberia and the Indian Subcontinent
Authors: Literák Ivan , Škrábal Jan , Karyakin Igor V. , Andreyenkova Natalya G. , Vazhov Sergey V.
Published: April 2022

The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) is one of the most widespread raptors in the world. The Palaearctic is populated by two migrating subspecies, Milvus migrans migrans and Milvus migrans lineatus, in the western and eastern part of this realm, respectively. There is a large intergradation zone of M. m. migrans/M. m. lineatus in-between. Although the migration routes of M. m. migrans from Europe to Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East are well known, detailed information about migration routes of Black Kites from intergradation zone are missing. Using satellite telemetry we are able to fill this gap in our knowledge of these birds. We tagged with GPS/SMS/GPRS telemetry loggers 13 and 6 Black Kite pulli in lowland around Biysk (Altai Krai, Russia) and in mountains around Kosh-Agach (Altai Republic, Russia), respectively. After fledging, Black Kites from both subpopulations stayed in a small, non-overlapping areas and then migrated to southern Asia through narrow corridors. Black Kites originating from Biysk migrated through the Western Circum-Himalayan Corridor. Black Kites originating from Kosh-Agach used the Trans-Himalayan Corridor crossing the Himalayas in altitudes of up to 6256 m asl. The average total distance travelled of Black Kites from both subpopulations was 9166 km without any significant differences between these subpopulations. Timing of both spring and autumn migration did not vary along different age groups. Black Kites from both subpopulations wintered in low elevations of Pakistan and India. Birds wintered on average for 190 days, and the mean area of individual home ranges in winter was 4704 km2. During the breeding period, birds dwelled in south-western Siberia, where they spent on average 125 days with an average home range size 3537 km2. We found that ontogenetic shifts in migratory behaviour of Black Kites from Eastern Russia differ from those in population/subspecies in Europe. Black Kites crossing the Himalayas fly and, moreover, stay for hours resting at night in the environment of mountains at altitudes over 5000 m.
Nutrient intake differs among persons with celiac disease and gluten-related disorders in the United States
Authors: Unalp-Arida Aynur , Liu Rui , Ruhl Constance E.
Published: April 2022

Persons with celiac disease (CD) may develop nutritional deficiencies, while individuals following a gluten-free diet (GFD) may lack essential nutrients. We examined nutrient intake from diet and supplements among persons with CD and GFD in the cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2009–2014. Among 15,610 participants 20 years and older, we identified CD based on positive serology for immunoglobulin A against tissue transglutaminase, health care provider diagnosis, and adherence to a GFD. People without CD avoiding gluten (PWAG) adhered to a GFD without a diagnosis of CD. Two 24-h recalls assessed nutrient intake from diet and supplements. Compared to participants without CD or PWAG, persons with diagnosed CD had lower intake of total energy, carbohydrates, fat, and saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. In contrast, persons with undiagnosed CD and positive serology had higher intake of those nutrients, sugar, and protein. Total carbohydrate and sugar intake was lower among PWAG. Persons with diagnosed CD had higher vitamin A and E intake, while those with undiagnosed CD had increased intake of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, sodium, potassium, vitamin A, alpha-carotene, folic acid, and choline. Higher micronutrient intake with undiagnosed CD was observed more at high latitudes. PWAG had higher beta-carotene and lutein/zeaxanthin and lower folic acid intake. In the U.S. population over a 6-year period, total energy and macronutrient intake was decreased among persons with diagnosed CD, while intake of total energy, macronutrients, and multiple micronutrients was increased among persons with undiagnosed CD. Nutriomics studies of multiple analytes measured simultaneously across affected persons and populations are needed to inform screening for malabsorption and treatment strategies.
Epigenetic and post-transcriptional repression support metabolic suppression in chronically hypoxic goldfish
Authors: Farhat Elie , Talarico Giancarlo G. M. , Grégoire Mélissa , Weber Jean-Michel , Mennigen Jan A.
Published: April 2022

Goldfish enter a hypometabolic state to survive chronic hypoxia. We recently described tissue-specific contributions of membrane lipid composition remodeling and mitochondrial function to metabolic suppression across different goldfish tissues. However, the molecular and especially epigenetic foundations of hypoxia tolerance in goldfish under metabolic suppression are not well understood. Here we show that components of the molecular oxygen-sensing machinery are robustly activated across tissues irrespective of hypoxia duration. Induction of gene expression of enzymes involved in DNA methylation turnover and microRNA biogenesis suggest a role for epigenetic transcriptional and post-transcriptional suppression of gene expression in the hypoxia-acclimated brain. Conversely, mechanistic target of rapamycin-dependent translational machinery activity is not reduced in liver and white muscle, suggesting this pathway does not contribute to lowering cellular energy expenditure. Finally, molecular evidence supports previously reported chronic hypoxia-dependent changes in membrane cholesterol, lipid metabolism and mitochondrial function via changes in transcripts involved in cholesterol biosynthesis, β-oxidation, and mitochondrial fusion in multiple tissues. Overall, this study shows that chronic hypoxia robustly induces expression of oxygen-sensing machinery across tissues, induces repressive transcriptional and post-transcriptional epigenetic marks especially in the chronic hypoxia-acclimated brain and supports a role for membrane remodeling and mitochondrial function and dynamics in promoting metabolic suppression.
A suspension technique for efficient large-scale cancer organoid culturing and perturbation screens
Authors: Price Stacey , Bhosle Shriram , Gonçalves Emanuel , Li Xiaodun , McClurg Dylan P. , Barthorpe Syd , Beck Alex , Hall Caitlin , Lightfoot Howard , Farrow Luke , Ansari Rizwan , Jackson David A. , Allen Laura , Roberts Kirsty , Beaver Charlotte , Francies Hayley E. , Garnett Mathew J.
Published: April 2022

Organoid cell culture methodologies are enabling the generation of cell models from healthy and diseased tissue. Patient-derived cancer organoids that recapitulate the genetic and histopathological diversity of patient tumours are being systematically generated, providing an opportunity to investigate new cancer biology and therapeutic approaches. The use of organoid cultures for many applications, including genetic and chemical perturbation screens, is limited due to the technical demands and cost associated with their handling and propagation. Here we report and benchmark a suspension culture technique for cancer organoids which allows for the expansion of models to tens of millions of cells with increased efficiency in comparison to standard organoid culturing protocols. Using whole-genome DNA and RNA sequencing analyses, as well as medium-throughput drug sensitivity testing and genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screening, we demonstrate that cancer organoids grown as a suspension culture are genetically and phenotypically similar to their counterparts grown in standard conditions. This culture technique simplifies organoid cell culture and extends the range of organoid applications, including for routine use in large-scale perturbation screens.
Effects of prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family
Authors: Gao Haifeng , Wang Jie , An Jing , Liu Shuyu , Li Yan , Ding Songtao , Zhang Yi , Chen Ying
Published: April 2022

Mastering the correct breastfeeding posture remains a challenge for many new mothers. Generalized pregnancy breastfeeding education plays a role in helping mothers master breastfeeding positions and prevent nipple damage. This study prospectively analyzed the effects of prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family on mastering the lactation latch and preventing nipple damage. Medical records of pregnant women in the authors' hospital from April 2020 to July 2020 were prospectively analyzed. A total of 342 patients were enrolled and divided into experimental and control groups according to whether or not they had received prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family by the random number table method. The difference in the mastery rate of the postpartum breastfeeding posture and nipple damage was examined three days postpartum. The mastery rate in the experimental group (88.5%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (63.8%), whereas the rate of nipple damage in the experimental group (23.1%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (46.9%). Prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family can promote mothers' mastery of breastfeeding latch skills and reduce the risk of nipple damage.
Population density, bottom-up and top-down control as an interactive triplet to trigger dispersal
Authors: Kreuzinger-Janik Bianca , Gansfort Birgit , Ptatscheck Christoph
Published: April 2022

Dispersal reflects the trade-offs between the cost of a change in habitat and the fitness benefits conferred by that change. Many factors trigger the dispersal of animals, but in field studies they are typically not controllable; consequently, they are mostly studied in the laboratory, where their single and interactive effects on dispersal can be investigated. We tested whether three fundamental factors, population density as well as bottom-up and top-down control, influence the emigration of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Nematode movement was observed in experiments conducted in two-chamber arenas in which these factors were manipulated. The results showed that both decreasing food availability and increasing population density had a positive influence on nematode dispersal. The presence of the predatory flatworm Polycelis tenuis did not consistently affect dispersal but worked as an amplifier when linked with population density with respect to certain food-supply levels. Our study indicates that nematode dispersal on small scales is non-random; rather, the worms’ ability to perceive environmental information leads to a context-dependent decision by individuals to leave or stay in a patch. The further use of nematodes to gain insights into both the triggers that initiate dispersal, and the traits of dispersing individuals will improve the modeling of animal behavior in changing and spatial heterogenous landscapes.
Polycaprolactone-based antibacterial nanofibrous scaffolds containing vanadium/hydroxyapatite and their morphology, mechanical properties, and in vitro studies
Authors: Al-Wafi Reem
Published: April 2022

Repairing the damaged wound tissues is a vital requirement for keeping an adequate clinical care system.
Metal-arene reduced Fe–Sb nanoparticles as a highly efficient catalyst for nitrophenol reduction
Authors: Kashyap Jyoti , Lakharwal Priyanka , Kandpal Hem C. , Patel Prayas C.
Published: April 2022

High catalytic efficiency of first time synthesised Fe–Sb alloyed NPs via sodium naphthalenide driven reduction approach.
Ambient ammonia production via electrocatalytic nitrate reduction catalyzed by a flower-like CuCo2O4 electrocatalyst
Authors: Wang Jinlu , Zhang Shengbo , Wang Chenchen , Li Ke , Zha Yuankang , Liu Min , Zhang Haimin , Shi Tongfei
Published: April 2022

The flower-shaped CuCo2O4 spinel catalyst was used for electrochemical nitrate reduction in an electrolyte. Theoretical calculation shows that NO3− can be adsorbed on CuCo2O4 to form the *NOH intermediate, so as to obtain a good yield rate and FE.
Synthesis of tetraphenylethene-based D–A conjugated molecules with near-infrared AIE features, and their application in photodynamic therapy
Authors: Li Li , Yuan Gang , Qi Qianjiao , Lv Cheng , Liang Jichao , Li Hongjie , Cao Lei , Zhang Xiuhua , Wang Shengfu , Cheng Yu , He Hanping
Published: April 2022

Herein, five aggregation-induced emission (AIE) photosensitizers (PSs) with D–π–A structures are smoothly designed and synthesized through donor and acceptor engineering.
DNA walker-amplified signal-on electrochemical aptasensors for prostate-specific antigen coupling with two hairpin DNA probe-based hybridization reaction
Authors: Zheng Yuyu , Wang Jinpeng , Chen Genwang , Wang Meie , Chen Tebin , Ke Qiaohong , Huang Yajun , Cai Fan , Huang Rongfu , Fan Chunmei
Published: April 2022

An electrochemical aptasensing platform was designed for the voltammetric detection of prostate-specific antigen without any washing and separation steps.
Unearthing the unique stability of thiophosphonium-C-terminal cysteine adducts on peptides and proteins
Authors: Spears Richard J. , Chrzastek Alina , Yap Steven Y. , Karu Kersti , Aliev Abil E. , Baker James R. , Chudasama Vijay
Published: April 2022

Herein we report the remarkable stability of C-terminal thiophosphonium species on small molecules, peptides and proteins.
Unveiling the roles of halogen ions in the surface passivation of CsPbI3 perovskite solar cells
Authors: Han Shichuang , Guan Li , Yin Tao , Zhang Jianen , Guo Jianxin , Chen Xiaobo , Li Xu
Published: April 2022

The electrons at the CBM emerged to accumulate around the Pb2+ ion neighboring the iodine vacancy. Cl− and Br− ions provided an effective passivation to the trap states and played a substantial role in reducing the non-radiative recombination.