bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interprofessional learning for dental and pharmacy professionals: learning together changes how you work together
Authors: Barraclough Caroline , Patel Jalpa , Grimes Lesley , Shaw Matthew
Published: July 2022

Can an interprofessionally designed and facilitated learning event change the way professionals understand each other's roles, enable them to better work with each other and improve patient care? Pharmacy and dental professionals are contractors to the NHS, providing services to the public. The way both professions are funded encourages them to generally work in isolation from the wider NHS, in contrast to other areas of healthcare and NHS systems. This study explores how working collaboratively at all stages of design, development, facilitation and engagement of a learning event impacts on the professionals taking part. It also explores how learning interprofessionally can change the way dental and pharmacy professionals work together, suggesting this way of learning is beneficial to improving working relationships between the sectors.

The study explored the ways that shared learning between professions could be approached and encouraged. Pharmacy professionals expressed that they felt more informed and confident giving dental advice to patients. Dental professionals recognised that pharmacy professionals could help support and manage patients. All professionals could see the importance of multidisciplinary working to improve understanding of the other professionals' role. The workshops showed that shared learning is an important aspect to help engage and integrate healthcare systems.
van der Waals integration of GaN light-emitting diode arrays on foreign graphene films using semiconductor/graphene heterostructures
Authors: Singh Anuj Kumar , Ahn Kwangseok , Yoo Dongha , Lee Seokje , Ali Asad , Yi Gyu-Chul , Chung Kunook
Published: July 2022

We report the van der Waals integration of micropatterned GaN light-emitting diodes (LEDs) onto foreign graphene films. GaN micro-LEDs were selectively grown on a graphene substrate using a patterned SiO2 mask, and then the whole device structure was laterally fixed by a polyimide insulator to form a united layer. After device fabrication, the LED/graphene heterostructure device was piled on the foreign graphene layers using a typical wet transfer technique of 2D crystals where the bottom graphene layer of the heterostructure was adhered to the foreign graphene only by van der Waals interactions. The transferred micro-LEDs showed well-aligned crystallographic orientations as well as reliable device performances, including strong light emissions, good rectifying behaviors of the current density–voltage curve, and good simultaneity between the electroluminescence intensity and the applied currents, ensuring reliable electrical connections and mechanical adhesions of the light-emitting layer to the foreign graphene films. Furthermore, the reliable adhesiveness allowed us to achieve device wearability, while the LEDs exhibited homogeneous light emissions under various bending conditions because of negligible external stress in the discrete micro-LEDs.
Megathrust reflectivity reveals the updip limit of the 2014 Iquique earthquake rupture
Authors: Ma Bo , Geersen Jacob , Lange Dietrich , Klaeschen Dirk , Grevemeyer Ingo , Contreras-Reyes Eduardo , Petersen Florian , Riedel Michael , Xia Yueyang , Tréhu Anne M. , Kopp Heidrun
Published: July 2022

The updip limit of seismic rupture during a megathrust earthquake exerts a major control on the size of the resulting tsunami. Offshore Northern Chile, the 2014 Mw 8.1 Iquique earthquake ruptured the plate boundary between 19.5° and 21°S. Rupture terminated under the mid-continental slope and did not propagate updip to the trench. Here, we use state-of-the-art seismic reflection data to investigate the tectonic setting associated with the apparent updip arrest of rupture propagation at 15 km depth during the Iquique earthquake. We document a spatial correspondence between the rupture area and the seismic reflectivity of the plate boundary. North and updip of the rupture area, a coherent, highly reflective plate boundary indicates excess fluid pressure, which may prevent the accumulation of elastic strain. In contrast, the rupture area is characterized by the absence of plate boundary reflectivity, which suggests low fluid pressure that results in stress accumulation and thus controls the extent of earthquake rupture. Generalizing these results, seismic reflection data can provide insights into the physical state of the shallow plate boundary and help to assess the potential for future shallow rupture in the absence of direct measurements of interplate deformation from most outermost forearc slopes.
Effectiveness and protection duration of Covid-19 vaccines and previous infection against any SARS-CoV-2 infection in young adults
Authors: Rennert Lior , Ma Zichen , McMahan Christopher S. , Dean Delphine
Published: July 2022

Data on effectiveness and protection duration of Covid-19 vaccines and previous infection against general SARS-CoV-2 infection in general populations are limited. Here we evaluate protection from Covid-19 vaccination (primary series) and previous infection in 21,261 university students undergoing repeated surveillance testing between 8/8/2021–12/04/2021, during which B.1.617 (delta) was the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant. Estimated mRNA-1273, BNT162b2, and AD26.COV2.S effectiveness against any SARS-CoV-2 infection is 75.4% (95% CI: 70.5-79.5), 65.7% (95% CI: 61.1-69.8), and 42.8% (95% CI: 26.1–55.8), respectively. Among previously infected individuals, protection is 72.9% when unvaccinated (95% CI: 66.1–78.4) and increased by 22.1% with full vaccination (95% CI: 15.8–28.7). Statistically significant decline in protection is observed for mRNA-1273 (P < .001), BNT162b2 (P < .001), but not Ad26.CoV2.S (P = 0.40) or previous infection (P = 0.12). mRNA vaccine protection dropped 29.7% (95% CI: 17.9–41.6) six months post- vaccination, from 83.2% to 53.5%. We conclude that the 2-dose mRNA vaccine series initially offers strong protection against general SARS-CoV-2 infection caused by the delta variant in young adults, but protection substantially decreases over time. These findings indicate that vaccinated individuals may still contribute to community spread. While previous SARS-CoV-2 infection consistently provides moderately strong protection against repeat infection from delta, vaccination yields a substantial increase in protection.
dia-PASEF data analysis using FragPipe and DIA-NN for deep proteomics of low sample amounts
Authors: Demichev Vadim , Szyrwiel Lukasz , Yu Fengchao , Teo Guo Ci , Rosenberger George , Niewienda Agathe , Ludwig Daniela , Decker Jens , Kaspar-Schoenefeld Stephanie , Lilley Kathryn S. , Mülleder Michael , Nesvizhskii Alexey I. , Ralser Markus
Published: July 2022

The dia-PASEF technology uses ion mobility separation to reduce signal interferences and increase sensitivity in proteomic experiments. Here we present a two-dimensional peak-picking algorithm and generation of optimized spectral libraries, as well as take advantage of neural network-based processing of dia-PASEF data. Our computational platform boosts proteomic depth by up to 83% compared to previous work, and is specifically beneficial for fast proteomic experiments and those with low sample amounts. It quantifies over 5300 proteins in single injections recorded at 200 samples per day throughput using Evosep One chromatography system on a timsTOF Pro mass spectrometer and almost 9000 proteins in single injections recorded with a 93-min nanoflow gradient on timsTOF Pro 2, from 200 ng of HeLa peptides. A user-friendly implementation is provided through the incorporation of the algorithms in the DIA-NN software and by the FragPipe workflow for spectral library generation.
Cardiac disruption of SDHAF4-mediated mitochondrial complex II assembly promotes dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Xueqiang , Zhang Xing , Cao Ke , Zeng Mengqi , Fu Xuyang , Zheng Adi , Zhang Feng , Gao Feng , Zou Xuan , Li Hao , Li Min , Lv Weiqiang , Xu Jie , Long Jiangang , Zang Weijin , Chen Jinghai , Gao Feng , Ding Jian , Liu Jiankang , Feng Zhihui
Published: July 2022

Succinate dehydrogenase, which is known as mitochondrial complex II, has proven to be a fascinating machinery, attracting renewed and increased interest in its involvement in human diseases. Herein, we find that succinate dehydrogenase assembly factor 4 (SDHAF4) is downregulated in cardiac muscle in response to pathological stresses and in diseased hearts from human patients. Cardiac loss of Sdhaf4 suppresses complex II assembly and results in subunit degradation and complex II deficiency in fetal mice. These defects are exacerbated in young adults with globally impaired metabolic capacity and activation of dynamin-related protein 1, which induces excess mitochondrial fission and mitophagy, thereby causing progressive dilated cardiomyopathy and lethal heart failure in animals. Targeting mitochondria via supplementation with fumarate or inhibiting mitochondrial fission improves mitochondrial dynamics, partially restores cardiac function and prolongs the lifespan of mutant mice. Moreover, the addition of fumarate is found to dramatically improve cardiac function in myocardial infarction mice. These findings reveal a vital role for complex II assembly in the development of dilated cardiomyopathy and provide additional insights into therapeutic interventions for heart diseases.
Cryo-EM structures of recombinant human sodium-potassium pump determined in three different states
Authors: Guo Yingying , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yan Renhong , Huang Bangdong , Ye Fangfei , Wu Liushu , Chi Ximin , shi Yi , Zhou Qiang
Published: July 2022

Sodium-Potassium Pump (Na+/K+-ATPase, NKA) is an ion pump that generates an electrochemical gradient of sodium and potassium ions across the plasma membrane by hydrolyzing ATP. During each Post-Albers cycle, NKA exchanges three cytoplasmic sodium ions for two extracellular potassium ions through alternating changes between the E1 and E2 states. Hitherto, several steps remained unknown during the complete working cycle of NKA. Here, we report cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of recombinant human NKA (hNKA) in three distinct states at 2.7–3.2 Å resolution, representing the E1·3Na and E1·3Na·ATP states with cytosolic gates open and the basic E2·[2K] state, respectively. This work provides the insights into the cytoplasmic Na+ entrance pathway and the mechanism of cytoplasmic gate closure coupled with ATP hydrolysis, filling crucial gaps in the structural elucidation of the Post-Albers cycle of NKA.
Shallow subsurface heat recycling is a sustainable global space heating alternative
Authors: Benz Susanne A. , Menberg Kathrin , Bayer Peter , Kurylyk Barret L.
Published: July 2022

Despite the global interest in green energy alternatives, little attention has focused on the large-scale viability of recycling the ground heat accumulated due to urbanization, industrialization and climate change. Here we show this theoretical heat potential at a multi-continental scale by first leveraging datasets of groundwater temperature and lithology to assess the distribution of subsurface thermal pollution. We then evaluate subsurface heat recycling for three scenarios: a status quo scenario representing present-day accumulated heat, a recycled scenario with ground temperatures returned to background values, and a climate change scenario representing projected warming impacts. Our analyses reveal that over 50% of sites show recyclable underground heat pollution in the status quo, 25% of locations would be feasible for long-term heat recycling for the recycled scenario, and at least 83% for the climate change scenario. Results highlight that subsurface heat recycling warrants consideration in the move to a low-carbon economy in a warmer world.
The cholesterol uptake regulator PCSK9 promotes and is a therapeutic target in APC/KRAS-mutant colorectal cancer
Authors: Wong Chi Chun , Wu Jian-Lin , Ji Fenfen , Kang Wei , Bian Xiqing , Chen Huarong , Chan Lam-Shing , Luk Simson Tsz Yat , Tong Samuel , Xu Jiaying , Zhou Qiming , Liu Dabin , Su Hao , Gou Hongyan , Cheung Alvin Ho-Kwan , To Ka Fai , Cai Zongwei , Shay Jerry W. , Yu Jun
Published: July 2022

Therapeutic targeting of KRAS-mutant colorectal cancer (CRC) is an unmet need. Here, we show that Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 (PSCK9) promotes APC/KRAS-mutant CRC and is a therapeutic target. Using CRC patient cohorts, isogenic cell lines and transgenic mice, we identify that de novo cholesterol biosynthesis is induced in APC/KRAS mutant CRC, accompanied by increased geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGPP)─a metabolite necessary for KRAS activation. PCSK9 is the top up-regulated cholesterol-related gene. PCSK9 depletion represses APC/KRAS-mutant CRC cell growth in vitro and in vivo, whereas PCSK9 overexpression induces oncogenesis. Mechanistically, PCSK9 reduces cholesterol uptake but induces cholesterol de novo biosynthesis and GGPP accumulation. GGPP is a pivotal metabolite downstream of PCSK9 by activating KRAS/MEK/ERK signaling. PCSK9 inhibitors suppress growth of APC/KRAS-mutant CRC cells, organoids and xenografts, especially in combination with simvastatin. PCSK9 overexpression predicts poor survival of APC/KRAS-mutant CRC patients. Together, cholesterol homeostasis regulator PCSK9 promotes APC/KRAS-mutant CRC via GGPP-KRAS/MEK/ERK axis and is a therapeutic target.
A luciferase prosubstrate and a red bioluminescent calcium indicator for imaging neuronal activity in mice
Authors: Tian Xiaodong , Zhang Yiyu , Li Xinyu , Xiong Ying , Wu Tianchen , Ai Hui-Wang
Published: July 2022

Although fluorescent indicators have been broadly utilized for monitoring bioactivities, fluorescence imaging, when applied to mammals, is limited to superficial targets or requires invasive surgical procedures. Thus, there is emerging interest in developing bioluminescent indicators for noninvasive mammalian imaging. Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) of neuronal activity is highly desired but hindered by insufficient photons needed to digitalize fast brain activities. In this work, we develop a luciferase prosubstrate deliverable at an increased dose and activated in vivo by nonspecific esterase. We further engineer a bright, bioluminescent indicator with robust responsiveness to calcium ions (Ca2+) and appreciable emission above 600 nm. Integration of these advantageous components enables the imaging of the activity of neuronal ensembles in awake mice minimally invasively with excellent signal-to-background and subsecond temporal resolution. This study thus establishes a paradigm for studying brain function in health and disease.
Mimicked synthetic ribosomal protein complex for benchmarking crosslinking mass spectrometry workflows
Authors: Matzinger Manuel , Vasiu Adrian , Madalinski Mathias , Müller Fränze , Stanek Florian , Mechtler Karl
Published: July 2022

Cross-linking mass spectrometry has matured to a frequently used tool for the investigation of protein structures as well as interactome studies up to a system-wide level. The growing community generated a broad spectrum of applications, linker types, acquisition strategies and specialized data analysis tools, which makes it challenging to decide for an appropriate analysis workflow. Here, we report a large and flexible synthetic peptide library as reliable instrument to benchmark crosslink workflows. Additionally, we provide a tool, IMP-X-FDR, that calculates the real, experimentally validated, FDR, compares results across search engine platforms and analyses crosslink properties in an automated manner. We apply the library with 6 commonly used linker reagents and analyse the data with 6 established search engines. We thereby show that the correct algorithm and search setting choice is highly important to improve identification rate and reliability. We reach identification rates of up to ~70 % of the theoretical maximum (i.e. 700 unique lysine-lysine cross-links) while maintaining a real false-discovery-rate of <3 % at cross-link level with high reproducibility, representatively showing that our test system delivers valuable and statistically solid results.
An ancestral function of strigolactones as symbiotic rhizosphere signals
Authors: Kodama Kyoichi , Rich Mélanie K. , Yoda Akiyoshi , Shimazaki Shota , Xie Xiaonan , Akiyama Kohki , Mizuno Yohei , Komatsu Aino , Luo Yi , Suzuki Hidemasa , Kameoka Hiromu , Libourel Cyril , Keller Jean , Sakakibara Keiko , Nishiyama Tomoaki , Nakagawa Tomomi , Mashiguchi Kiyoshi , Uchida Kenichi , Yoneyama Kaori , Tanaka Yoshikazu , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Shimamura Masaki , Delaux Pierre-Marc , Nomura Takahito , Kyozuka Junko
Published: July 2022

In flowering plants, strigolactones (SLs) have dual functions as hormones that regulate growth and development, and as rhizosphere signaling molecules that induce symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. Here, we report the identification of bryosymbiol (BSB), an SL from the bryophyte Marchantia paleacea. BSB is also found in vascular plants, indicating its origin in the common ancestor of land plants. BSB synthesis is enhanced at AM symbiosis permissive conditions and BSB deficient mutants are impaired in AM symbiosis. In contrast, the absence of BSB synthesis has little effect on the growth and gene expression. We show that the introduction of the SL receptor of Arabidopsis renders M. paleacea cells BSB-responsive. These results suggest that BSB is not perceived by M. paleacea cells due to the lack of cognate SL receptors. We propose that SLs originated as AM symbiosis-inducing rhizosphere signaling molecules and were later recruited as plant hormone.
Preparation of geranium oil formulations effective for control of phenotypic resistant cattle tick Rhipicephalus annulatus
Authors: Ibrahium Samar M. , Aboelhadid Shawky M. , Wahba Ahmed A. , Farghali Ahmed A. , Miller Robert J. , Abdel-Baki Abdel-Azeem S. , Al-Quraishy Saleh
Published: July 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate in vitro and in vivo the acaricidal activity of two forms of geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) (PG). These two forms were the P. graveolens essential oil nanoemulsion (PGN), and the PG in combination with the sesame oil (SO), PGSO). These forms were first evaluated in vitro for their adulticidal, ovicidal, and larvicidal activities against the different stages of acaricide-resistant Rhipicephalus annulatus (Say). Geranium nanoemulsion was prepared and then characterized by UV–Vis spectrophotometer, and zeta droplet size measurement. The results revealed that LC50 of the PG against the adult ticks was attained at concentration of 7.53% while it was decreased to 1.91% and 5.60% for PGSO and PGN, respectively. Also, the LC50 of PGN and PGSO were reached at concentrations of 1.688 and 0.944%, respectively against the larvae while the LC50 of the PG was reached at concentration of 3.435% for. The combination of PGN with PG exhibited non-significant ovicidal effect meanwhile PGSO showed significant ovicidal effect even at the low concentration (2.5%). The PGSO and PGN formulations were applied in a field trial to control the ticks of the naturally infested cattle. PGSO and PGN significantly reduced the tick burden to 74.83% and 87.97%, respectively at 3 weeks post-application with performance better than the deltamethrin (29.88%). In conclusion, the two PG forms can be used as suitable alternatives to control R. annulatus tick and they need further modifications for effective field application.
Reorientation technique has benefits in bone marrow aspiration of stem cells
Authors: Pabinger Christof , Dammerer Dietmar , Lothaller Harald , Kobinia Georg Stefan
Published: July 2022

We treated patients with osteoarthritis of the knee using injections of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (stem cell therapy). Since multiple controversial harvesting methods using different sites, needles, volumes and techniques have been described, we aimed to compare those methods. Four different harvesting sites at the iliac crest, three different types of needles, three different types of volumes and two different harvesting techniques were compared in 48 bone marrow aspirations. The conventional technique (Group 1) was compared with a reorientation technique (Group 2). The number of leucocytes and CD34 + cells and the viability in bone marrow aspirate (BMA) were analysed with a CytoFLEX Flow Cytometer. The reorientation technique showed significantly higher cell counts than the conventional technique in all parameters. Leucocytes per nl increased from 5 ± 2 to 12 ± 4 (p < .001), and CD 34 + cells per μl increased from 40 ± 40 to 140 ± 98 (p = .003). There was no difference between anterior and posterior harvesting at the iliac crest or between use of a thick and use of a thin needle. Use of the reorientation technique, compared to employing the conventional technique, has a significant advantage since the number of leucocytes and CD34 + cells can be tripled. For the use of bone marrow aspirate in the case of arthritis, it might therefore be a future option to harvest a maximum cell yield through the new reorientation technique and to omit centrifugation. However, the clinical relevance of these findings remains the subject of future studies.

Level of Evidence: Level I.

Clinical relevance: Enhanced technique of BMA for knee surgeons to ensure the maximum cell yield for stem cell therapy in regenerative medicine.
Adaptability and stability of Coffea canephora to dynamic environments using the Bayesian approach
Authors: Partelli Fabio Luiz , da Silva Flavia Alves , Covre André Monzoli , Oliosi Gleison , Correa Caio Cezar Guedes , Viana Alexandre Pio
Published: July 2022

The objective of this work was to use the Bayesian approach, modeling the interaction of coffee genotypes with the environment, using a bisegmented regression to identify stable and adapted genotypes. A group of 43 promising genotypes of Coffea canephora was chosen. The genotypes were arranged in a randomized block design with three replications of seven plants each. The experimental plot was harvested four years in the study period, according to the maturation cycle of each genotype. The proposed Bayesian methodology was implemented in the free program R using rstanarm and coda packages. It was possible to use previous information on coffee genotypes as prior information on parameter distributions of an Adaptability and Stability model, which allowed obtaining shorter credibility intervals and good evidence of low bias in the model by the determination coefficient. After fine adjustments in the approach, it was possible to make inferences about the significant GxE interaction and to discriminate the coffee genotypes regarding production, adaptability, and stability. This is still a new approach for perennials, and since it allows more accurate estimates it can be advantageous when planning breeding programs. The Z21 genotype is recommended to compose part of selected genetic material for highly technical farmers, as it responds very well to the favorable environment, being one of the most productive and with excellent stability.
Nanotube abundance from non-negative matrix factorization of Raman spectra as an example of chemical purity from open source machine learning
Authors: Flores Elijah , Ouyang Jianying , Lapointe François , Finnie Paul
Published: July 2022

The chemical purity of materials is important for semiconductors, including the carbon nanotube material system, which is emerging in semiconductor applications. One approach to get statistically meaningful abundances and/or concentrations is to measure a large number of small samples. Automated multivariate classification algorithms can be used to draw conclusions from such large data sets. Here, we use spatially-mapped Raman spectra of mixtures of chirality-sorted single walled carbon nanotubes dispersed sparsely on flat silicon/silicon oxide substrates. We use non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) decomposition in scikit-learn, an open-source, python language “machine learning” package, to extract spectral components and derive weighting factors. We extract the abundance of minority species (7,5) nanotubes in mixtures by testing both synthetic data, and real samples prepared by dilution. We show how noise limits the purity level that can be evaluated. We determine real situations where this approach works well, and identify situations where it fails.
Mathematical modeling analysis on the dynamics of university students animosity towards mathematics with optimal control theory
Authors: Teklu Shewafera Wondimagegnhu , Terefe Birhanu Baye
Published: July 2022

Animosity towards mathematics is a very common worldwide problem and it is usually caused by wrong information, low participation, low challenge tolerance, falling further behind, being unemployed, and avoiding the advanced math classes needed for success in many careers. In this study, we have considered and formulated the new SEATS compartmental mathematical model with optimal control theory to analyze the dynamics of university students’ animosity towards mathematics. We applied the next-generation matrix, Ruth-Hurwitz criteria, Lyapunov function, and Volterra-Lyapunov stable matrices to show local and global stability of equilibrium points of the model respectively. The study demonstrated that the animosity-free equilibrium point is both locally and globally asymptotically stable whenever the model basic reproduction number is less than unity, whereas the animosity-dominance equilibrium point is both locally and globally asymptotically stable when the model basic reproduction number is greater than unity. Finally, we applied numerical ode45 solvers using the Runge–Kutta method and we have carried out numerical simulations and shown that applying both prevention and treatment controls is the best strategy to minimize and possibly eradicate the animosity-infection in the community under consideration.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Simulation of hybridized nanofluids flowing and heat transfer enhancement via 3-D vertical heated plate using finite element technique
Authors: Hafeez Muhammad Bilal , Krawczuk Marek , Shahzad Hasan , Pasha Amjad Ali , Adil Mohammad
Published: July 2022

The present study probed the creation of heat energy and concentrating into Newtonian liquids across vertical 3D-heated plates. The role of the Soret and Dufour theories in concentrating and energy formulas is discussed. The role of hybrid nanoparticles is introduced to illustrate particle efficiency in terms of solute and thermal energy. It is removed a viscous dissipation process and a changing magnetic field. The proposed approach is motivated by the need to maximize solute and thermal energy uses in biological and industrial domains. The constructed system of (partial differential equations) PDEs includes concentration, momentum, and thermal energy equations within various thermal characteristics. Transformations are used to formulate the system of (ordinary differential equations) ODEs for solution. To assess various features vs various variables, a Galerkin finite element approach is used. Motion into nanoscale components is shown to be smaller than motion into hybrid nanoparticles. Furthermore, fluctuations in heat energy and solute particle counts are seen in relation to changes in Soret, Eckert, magnetic, and Dufour numbers. The basic finding is that the generation of thermal energy for hybridized nanomaterials is much higher.
Comparing stress and behavioral coping strategies during the early stages of the COVID-19 crisis among domestic and overseas Taiwanese
Authors: Chen Cheng-Che , Wu Harry Yi-Jui , Yeh Ming-Jui , Wang Austin Horng-En
Published: July 2022

This study reported domestic and overseas Taiwanese people’s perceived stress levels and examined the mediation effect of their coping strategies during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We recruited 2727 Taiwanese respondents from the COVIDiSTRESS Global Survey (N = 173,426) between March 30 and May 30, 2020. The self-report questionnaire included a modified 10-item Perceived Stress Scale and a 16-item coping strategy scale. Three stress-coping factors were extracted with principal component analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Their effects were examined through a regression and mediation analysis. The overseas Taiwanese participants had a significantly higher stress level than domestic counterparts (2.89 to 2.69 in 1–5 scale, p < 0.001). Government guidance was associated with lower stress level among domestic (− 0.097, 95% C.I. [− 0.131, − 0.063]) but not overseas Taiwanese (0.025, [− 0.114, 0.163]). The association of stress level with residency was mediated by coping strategies, for government guidance (0.04, [0.01, 0.07], ref: domestic participants) and supportive social networks (− 0.03, [− 0.05, − 0.01]). All results hold after the propensity score matching on samples. Government guidance on COVID-19 as a channel for coping with stress is correlated with the residency status of the respondents. Public health authorities should recognize the importance of various mental health interventions during pandemics.
Heterogeneous catalyst design by generative adversarial network and first-principles based microkinetics
Authors: Ishikawa Atsushi
Published: July 2022

Microkinetic analysis based on density functional theory (DFT) was combined with a generative adversarial network (GAN) to enable the artificial proposal of heterogeneous catalysts based on the DFT-calculated dataset. The approach was applied to the NH3 formation reaction on Rh−Ru alloy surfaces as an example. The NH3 formation turnover frequency (TOF) was calculated by DFT-based microkinetics. Six elementary reactions, namely, N2 dissociation, H2 dissociation, NHx (x = 1–3) formation, and NH3 desorption, were explicitly considered, and their reaction energies were evaluated by DFT calculations. Based on the TOF values and atomic compositions, new alloy surfaces were generated using the GAN. This approach successfully generated the surfaces that were not included in the initial dataset but exhibited higher TOF values. The N2 dissociation reaction was more exothermic for the generated surfaces, leading to higher TOF. The present study demonstrates that the automatic improvement of catalyst materials is possible using DFT calculations and GAN sample generation.
Development of LTCC-packaged optocouplers as optical galvanic isolation for high-temperature applications
Authors: Lai Pengyu , Gonzalez David , Madhusoodhanan Syam , Sabbar Abbas , Ahmed Salahaldein , Dong Binzhong , Wang Jiangbo , Mantooth H. Alan , Yu Shui-Qing , Chen Zhong
Published: July 2022

This paper reports high-temperature optocouplers for signal galvanic isolation. Low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) technology was used in the design and fabrication of the high-temperature optocoupler package. The optimal coupling behaviors, driving capabilities and response speed of the optocouplers were concentrated and investigated in this paper. Emitters and detectors with different emission and spectral wavelengths were studied to achieve optimal coupling behaviors. Relatively high coupling efficiency is achieved with emitters and detectors of emission and spectral wavelength in the red spectrum (i.e., 620–750 nm), leading to higher current transfer ratios (CTR). To further enhance the electrical performance, optocouplers with multiple detectors in parallel were designed and fabricated. CTR, leakage current and response speed (i.e., propagation delay, rise time and fall time) of the optocouplers were characterized over a range of temperatures from 25 to 250 °C. The CTR degrades at high temperatures, while the leakage current and response speed show little degradation with varying temperatures. Furthermore, the behaviors of the optocouplers with varying temperatures are modeled and analyzed.
PFKM inhibits doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by enhancing oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis
Authors: Zhou Min , Sun Xiao , Wang Chunli , Wang Fengdan , Fang Chuibi , Hu Zhenlei
Published: July 2022

Heart failure (HF) is a global pandemic which affects about 26 million people. PFKM (Phosphofructokinase, Muscle), catalyzing the phosphorylation of fructose-6-phosphate, plays a very important role in cardiovascular diseases. However, the effect of PFKM in glycolysis and HF remains to be elucidated. H9c2 rat cardiomyocyte cells were treated with doxorubicin (DOX) to establish injury models, and the cell viability, apoptosis and glycolysis were measured. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunoblotting were used for gene expression. DOX treatment significantly inhibited PFKM expression in H9c2 cells. Overexpression of PFKM inhibited DOX-induced cell apoptosis and DOX-decreased glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), while silencing PFKM promoted cell apoptosis and inhibited glycolysis and OXPHOS in H9c2 cells. Moreover, PFKM regulated DOX-mediated cell viability and apoptosis through glycolysis pathway. Mechanism study showed that histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) inhibited H3K27ac-induced transcription of PFKM in DOX-treated cells and regulated glycolysis. PFKM could inhibit DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by enhancing OXPHOS and glycolysis, which might benefit us in developing novel therapeutics for prevention or treatment of HF.
New insights into permeability determination by coupling Stoneley wave propagation and conventional petrophysical logs in carbonate oil reservoirs
Authors: Rostami Alireza , Kordavani Ali , Parchekhari Shahin , Hemmati-Sarapardeh Abdolhossein , Helalizadeh Abbas
Published: July 2022

The need to determine permeability at different stages of evaluation, completion, optimization of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) operations, and reservoir modeling and management is reflected. Therefore, various methods with distinct efficiency for the evaluation of permeability have been proposed by engineers and petroleum geologists. The oil industry uses acoustic and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) loggings extensively to determine permeability quantitatively. However, because the number of available NMR logs is not enough and there is a significant difficulty in their interpreting and evaluation, the use of acoustic logs to determine the permeability has become very important. Direct, continuous, and in-reservoir condition estimation of permeability is a unique feature of the Stoneley waves analysis as an acoustic technique. In this study, five intelligent mathematical methods, including Adaptive Network-Based Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), Least-Square Support Vector Machine (LSSVM), Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN), Multi-Layer Perceptron Neural Network (MLPNN), and Committee Machine Intelligent System (CMIS), have been performed for calculating permeability in terms of Stoneley and shear waves travel-time, effective porosity, bulk density and lithological data in one of the naturally-fractured and low-porosity carbonate reservoirs located in the Southwest of Iran. Intelligent models have been improved with three popular optimization algorithms, including Coupled Simulated Annealing (CSA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and Genetic Algorithm (GA). Among the developed models, the CMIS is the most accurate intelligent model for permeability forecast as compared to the core permeability data with a determination coefficient (R2) of 0.87 and an average absolute deviation (AAD) of 3.7. Comparing the CMIS method with the NMR techniques (i.e., Timur-Coates and Schlumberger-Doll-Research (SDR)), the superiority of the Stoneley method is demonstrated. With this model, diverse types of fractures in carbonate formations can be easily identified. As a result, it can be claimed that the models presented in this study are of great value to petrophysicists and petroleum engineers working on reservoir simulation and well completion.
Design of high SERS sensitive substrates based on branched Ti nanorods
Authors: Yussuf Nosirudeen Abayomi M. , Li Jianlin , Jung Yung Joon , Huang Hanchen
Published: July 2022

This paper reports a rational design of branched titanium (Ti) nanorods formed by glancing angle physical vapor deposition and their applications as substrates for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Ti nanorods with branches have larger surface areas than non-branched nanorods. However, Ti surface oxidizes easily resulting in very little SERS effect. The SERS sensitivity of the branched titanium nanorod is improved by annealing Ti nanorods in nitrogen in an effort to reduce oxidation. Additionally, the plasmonic resonance of the branched titanium nanorod is further improved by coating the top of the nanorods and branches with silver (Ag). The sensitivity of the SERS substrates is about 3700% that of as-deposited branched Ti nanorods with a native oxide layer. Our investigation provides a mechanism to fabricate sensitive SERS sensors of Ti nanorods that are known to be thermally and chemically stable and compatible with silicon-based electronics.
Variation in biochemical, physiological and ecophysiological traits among the teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) seed sources of India
Authors: Vishnu M. V. Jawahar , Parthiban K. T. , Raveendran M. , Kanna S. Umesh , Radhakrishnan S. , Shabbir Rubab
Published: July 2022

Teak being an iconic timber species the studies on its physiological and biochemical traits are very limited in India and worldwide. As a result, the current study aimed to assess biochemical parameters such as chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, chlorophyll ab ratio, proline content, and peroxidase activity, along with physiological parameters such as Chlorophyll stability index, relative water content, and leaf area, as well as ecophysiological traits such as net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), transpiration rate (Tr), Leaf temperature, intrinsic water-use efficiency (iWUE), instantaneous water use efficiency and intrinsic carboxylation efficiency of thirty teak seed sources collected from different states of India. FCRITK 19, FCRITK 21, FCRITK 25, FCRITK 29, and FCRITK 05 were reported to have a greater photosynthetic rate (> 17 µmol m−2 s−1) coupled with a relative water content of more than 50% and a chlorophyll stability index of more than 60%, which could be used in a future genetic improvement programme. Correlation analysis indicated that water use efficiency was found to be strongly but negatively correlated with transpiration rate (−0.601) and stomatal conductance (−0.910). The proline content had a substantial positive correlation with the chlorophyll stability index (0.890), signifying that they are associated with abiotic stress conditions. Cluster analysis was attempted to discriminate the sources based on biochemical, physiological and ecophysiological traits. Eleven sources (FCRITK 25, FCRITK 27, FCRITK 29, FCRITK 14, FCRITK 30, FCRITK 16, FCRITK 05, FCRITK 13, FCRITK 02, FCRITK 17 and FCRITK 15) exhibited superior performance compared to rest of the sources.
A multi-epitope vaccine designed against blood-stage of malaria: an immunoinformatic and structural approach
Authors: Atapour Amir , Vosough Parisa , Jafari Somayeh , Sarab Gholamreza Anani
Published: July 2022

Malaria is a complex disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium and is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The most severe form of malaria disease is caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Thus, a combination of different approaches is needed to control malaria. Resistance to first-line drugs and insecticides, on the other hand, makes the need for an effective vaccination more urgent than ever. Because erythrocyte parasites cause the most clinical symptoms, developing a vaccination for this stage of infection might be highly beneficial. In this research, we employed various bioinformatics methods to create an efficient multi-epitope vaccine that induces antibodies against the blood stage of malaria infection. For this purpose, we selected the malaria PfGARP protein as the target here. The B, HTL epitopes, and epitope conservation were predicted. The predicted epitopes (including 5 B and 5 HTL epitopes) were connected using suitable linkers, and the flagellin molecule was used as an adjuvant to improve its immunogenicity. The final construct vaccine with 414 amino acids long was designed. The vaccine's allergenicity, antigenicity, solubility, physicochemical characteristics, 2D and 3D structure modeling, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, in silico cloning, and immunological simulation were tested. In silico immune simulation results showed significantly elevated IgG1 and IgM and T helper cells, INF γ, IL 2, and B-cell populations after the injection of the designed vaccine. These significant computational analyses indicated that our proposed vaccine candidate might activate suitable immune responses against malaria. However, in vitro and in vivo studies are essential for further validation.
Eleutheroside E supplementation prevents radiation-induced cognitive impairment and activates PKA signaling via gut microbiota
Authors: Song Chen , Duan Fangyuan , Ju Ting , Qin Yue , Zeng Deyong , Shan Shan , Shi Yudong , Zhang Yingchun , Lu Weihong
Published: July 2022

Radiation affects not only cognitive function but also gut microbiota. Eleutheroside E (EE), a principal active compound of Acanthopanax senticosus, has a certain protective effect on the nervous system. Here, we find a four-week EE supplementation to the 60Co-γ ray irradiated mice improves the cognition and spatial memory impairments along with the protection of hippocampal neurons, remodels the gut microbiota, especially changes of Lactobacillus and Helicobacter, and altered the microbial metabolites including neurotransmitters (GABA, NE, ACH, 5-HT) as well as their precursors. Furthermore, the fecal transplantation of EE donors verifies that EE alleviated cognition and spatial memory impairments, and activates the PKA/CREB/BDNF signaling via gut microbiota. Our findings provide insight into the mechanism of EE effect on the gut-brain axis and underpin a proposed therapeutic value of EE in cognitive and memory impairments induced by radiation.
Dynamic pressure variations in the lower crust caused by localized fluid-induced weakening
Authors: Moulas Evangelos , Kaus Boris , Jamtveit Bjørn
Published: July 2022

Metamorphism of dry, lower crust within orogens is often localized in shear zones composed of mechanically weaker rocks1–4. Several field-based studies suggest shear zone development is preceded by brittle faults which provide the fluid pathways required for metamorphism and weakening4–12. However, a unifying model which couples long-term geological deformation to fluid migration and metamorphic reactions does not exist. Here, we present a visco-elasto-plastic model where the most pertinent features observed in transformed lower crust emerge from basic mechanical principles during the deformation of a coherent rock volume with associated fluid introduction. These include a strikingly dynamic and heterogeneous pressure distribution in the reacting and deforming rock volumes. Lower crustal pressure variations may reach 1 GPa at the same depth. This will have first order effects on the pattern of fluid migration in the lower crust, and may explain the apparent discrepancies between the relevant tectonic settings and petrologically-inferred burial depths.
Waste Valorisation Using Ionic Liquids
Authors: e Silva Francisca , Sousa Ana , Freire Mara , Coutinho João
Published: July 2022

Modern societies produce large amounts of waste of many different types. This presents a problem in terms of management or disposal to prevent harm to human health and the environment. Additionally it represents a loss of potentially useful resources. In the circular economy concept nothing would ever become waste because everything would be re-usable or its components recoverable. Ionic liquids provide a potential route for valorisation of different waste types, paving the way for a circular economy and a more sustainable world.

Covering various types of waste, including municipal, industrial, electronic, and medical, while addressing patented and commercial applications, this book aims to deliver a comprehensive, but also critical, perspective on the application of ionic liquids towards waste valorisation.

Waste Valorisation Using Ionic Liquids is a useful resource for academic and industrial players, in the fields of chemistry, chemical and environmental engineering, and biotechnology, as well as anyone working on waste management and resource recovery.
Polymer Brushes with Chemical Responses
Authors: Chu Elza , Sidorenko Alexander
Published: July 2022

Polymer brushes (PB) are a unique platform that enables functional dimensionality through responsive behaviour when exposed to selective stimuli while offering outstanding mechanical stability. The densely grafted polymer chains may respond to chemical and physical stimuli in various ways: reversible or permanent response, locking, and triggered release. This chapter focuses on interactions between active moieties of PB with neutral species, ions (including protons), and electrons that result in chemical transformations of the PB leading to macroscopic changes. The alterations in morphology, swelling, wettability, electrical resistivity, adhesion, and bio-adhesion are examples of such responses that make PB an extremely important element of nanotechnology.
Piezelectric Chemosensors and Multisensory Systems
Authors: Kuchmenko Tatiana , Lvova Larisa
Published: July 2022

In this chapter the working principles and the main application areas of the piezoquartz microweighing method, piezoelectric chemosensors and multisensor systems employed for gaseous phase analysis over the past 30 years are discussed. The advantages and challenges of the multisensor approach and “electronic nose” systems regarding single sensors are considered. Moreover, examples of piezoelectric “electronic nose” use for a wide range of analytical tasks, such as environmental monitoring, foodstuff quality assessment, medical and health care applications are reported in order to demonstrate multisensor approach effectiveness and to predict further development trends.
Cereblon covalent modulation through structure-based design of histidine targeting chemical probes
Authors: Cruite Justin T. , Dann Geoffrey P. , Che Jianwei , Donovan Katherine A. , Ferrao Silas , Ficarro Scott B. , Fischer Eric S. , Gray Nathanael S. , Huerta Fidel , Kong Nikki R. , Liu Hu , Marto Jarrod A. , Metivier Rebecca J. , Nowak Radosław P. , Zerfas Breanna L. , Jones Lyn H.
Published: July 2022

Synthetic re-engineering of a surface histidine residue on cereblon using sulfonyl exchange chemistry yielded potent irreversible modulators of the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, including a molecular glue degrader of the novel neosubstrate NTAQ1.
Potentialities ofGinkgoextract on toxicants, toxins, and radiation: a critical review
Authors: Boateng Isaac Duah
Published: July 2022

Protective effect ofGinkgo bilobaextract against toxins, toxicants and radiations.
Phase control and lateral heterostructures of MoTe2 epitaxially grown on graphene/Ir(111)
Authors: Ripoll-Sau Joan , Calleja Fabian , Casado Aguilar Pablo , Ibarburu Iván M. , Vázquez de Parga Amadeo L. , Miranda Rodolfo , Garnica Manuela
Published: July 2022

Engineering the growth of the different phases of a MoTe2 single-layer in a decoupling substrate. The possibility to tune and combine different phases is a promising way to exploit the potential of MoTe2 since the phase determines its properties.
A comprehensive understanding of carbon–carbon bond formation by alkyne migratory insertion into manganacycles
Authors: Hammarback L. Anders , Eastwood Jonathan B. , Burden Thomas J. , Pearce Callum J. , Clark Ian P. , Towrie Michael , Robinson Alan , Fairlamb Ian J. S. , Lynam Jason M.
Published: July 2022

Time-resolved spectroscopy and computational chemistry have informed a unified model of alkyne migratory insertion, an important processes underpinning the transition metal-catalysed formation of C–C and C–X bonds.