bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong Photocurrent Response of Selenoarsenates With Different Transition Metal Complexes as Structure-Directing Agents
Authors: Tian Xinyu , Teri Gele , Shele Muge , E Namila , Qi Liming , Liu Min , Baiyin Menghe
Published: May 2022

Four selenoarsenates with different transition-metal complexes [Co(tren)2H]AsSe4 [tren = tris(2-aminoethyl)amine] (1); [Ni2(dien)4](As2Se5) (dien = diethylenetriamine) (2); [Zn(tren)]2(As2Se5) (3) and [Mn(tren)]2(As2Se5) (4) were solvothermally synthesized in a mixed solvent of organic amine and alcohol solution. The compounds 1-4 have pyramidal/tetrahedral structures (AsSe3/AsSe4), and contain transition metal (Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+ and Mn2+) complex that form distinct zero-dimensional (0-D) clusters. Arsenic atoms form a tetrahedron in compounds 1 and 2; 1 consists of discrete tetrahedral (AsSe4) and transition metal complex [Co(tren)2]2+; 2 is composed of an anion [As2Se5]4- cluster and transition metal complex [Ni(dien)2]2+. In compounds 3 and 4, arsenic atom forms a pyramidal AsSe3 and the two pyramidal AsSe3 share a corner connection to form a dimer [As2Se5]4-; 3 is characterized as a cluster consisting of two unsaturated [Zn(tren)]2+ caiton linked by a dimer (As2Se5)4- linkage; in 4, unsaturated [Mn(tren)]2+ caiton is linked to two trigonal-bipyramidal [Mn(tren)]Se via dimer (As2Se5)4- to form [Mn(tren)]4[As4Se10] cluster. To our knowledge, [Zn(tren)]2(As2Se5) (3) is the first zinc selenoarsenate containing the (As2Se5)4- anion type. Furthermore, the Mn2+ ions adopt a trigonal-biyramidal (five-coordinate) and octahedral (six-coordinate) environment. Adding K2CO3/Cs2CO3 to the synthesis system is necessary and may act as a mineralizer. Several properties of compounds 1-4 have been characterized in our studies, in particular their strong photocurrent response characteristics under visible light irradiation.
Recent Advances in Carbon Dots for In Vitro/Vivo Fluorescent Bioimaging: A Mini-Review
Authors: He Chen , Lin Xiaofeng , Mei Yanqiu , Luo Yan , Yang Min , Kuang Ying , Yi Xiaoqing , Zeng Weijia , Huang Qitong , Zhong Bin
Published: May 2022

As a new type of “zero-dimensional” fluorescent carbon nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs) have some unique optical and chemical properties, they are being explored for a variety of applications in bio-related fields, such as bioimaging, biosensors, and therapy. This review mainly summarizes the recent progress of CDs in bioimaging. The overview of this review can be roughly divided into two categories: (1) In vitro bioimaging based on CDs in different cells and important organelles. (2) The distribution, imaging and application of CDs in mice and zebrafish. In addition, this review also points out the potential advantages and future development directions of CDs for bioimaging, which may promote the development of CDs in the field of bioimaging.
Learning From Success, Not Catastrophe: Using Counterfactual Analysis to Highlight Successful Disaster Risk Reduction Interventions
Authors: Rabonza Maricar L. , Lin Yolanda C. , Lallemant David
Published: May 2022

In the aftermath of a disaster, news and research attention is focused almost entirely on catastrophic narratives and the various drivers that may have led to the disaster. Learning from failure is essential to preventing future disasters. However, hyperfixation on the catastrophe obscures potential successes at the local scale, which could serve as important examples and learning resources in effective risk mitigation. To highlight effective risk mitigation actions that would otherwise remain unnoticed, we propose the use of probabilistic downward counterfactual analysis. This approach uses counterfactual modelling of a past hazard event with consequences made worse (i.e. downward counterfactual) by the absence of the mitigation intervention. The approach follows probabilistic risk analysis procedures where uncertainties in the simulated events and outcomes are accounted for and propagated. We demonstrate the method using a case study of Nepal’s School Earthquake Safety Program, implemented before the 2015 Mw 7.8 Gorkha earthquake. Using a school building database for Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, we present two applications: 1) the quantification of lives saved during the Gorkha earthquake as a result of the retrofitting of schools in Kathmandu Valley since 1997, 2) the quantification of the annual expected lives saved if the pilot retrofitting program was extended to all school buildings in Kathmandu Valley based on a probabilistic seismic hazard model. The shift in focus from realised outcome to counterfactual alternative enables the quantification of the benefits of risk reduction programs amidst disaster, or for a hazard that has yet to unfold. Such quantified counterfactual analysis can be used to celebrate successful risk reduction interventions, providing important positive reinforcement to decision-makers with political bravery to commit to the implementation of effective measures.
Timing of Sedimentary Evolution and Transgressions in the Bohai Sea During the Last ∼200 ka: Constraints from Luminescence Dating of a Core from the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Zhang Xin , Liu Jian , Wang Yixuan , Chen Tianyuan , Abbas Mahmoud , Qian Shengling
Published: May 2022

The southwestern coast of the Bohai Sea is a favorable area to study land-sea interactions and palaeoenvironmental changes. The Bohai Sea hosts vast volumes of sediment discharged from rivers of mainland China and has undergone large-scale sea-level fluctuations during the Quaternary. Three transgressions have been previously determined for the Bohai Sea since the late Pleistocene. However, the timings of the two earlier transgressions are still unclear. Here we present chronological, micropalaeontological, and sedimentological data for an 80-m-long sediment core recovered from the modern Yellow River delta. The changes in grain size and foraminiferal assemblages suggest the occurrence of three marine sedimentary units, M-3, M-2, and M-1, that represent transgressions of the Bohai Sea. We applied optically stimulated luminescence dating using both quartz and feldspar minerals on 15 samples obtained from core YRD-1401 and eight radiocarbon ages using fragments of microfossils shells and organic carbon. Our quartz optically stimulated luminescence ages for M-2 (ca. 60 ka), are consistent with K-feldspar post-infrared stimulated luminescence ages, suggesting that M-2 on the southwestern coast of the Bohai Sea was deposited during early MIS 3. The sea level of the Bohai Sea during early MIS 3 is estimated to have ranged from 26.8 to 19.9 m below the present sea level. Luminescence ages and foraminiferal assemblages indicate that M-3 was likely formed during MIS 5 and a tidal-river environment prevailed on the southwestern coast of the Bohai Sea during MIS 6 or earlier.
Flowability of Crumbler Rotary Shear Size-Reduced Granular Biomass: An Experiment-Informed Modeling Study on the Angle of Repose
Authors: Hamed Ahmed , Xia Yidong , Saha Nepu , Klinger Jordan , Lanning David N. , Dooley Jim
Published: May 2022

Biomass has potential as a carbon-neutral alternative to petroleum for chemical and energy products. However, complete replacement of fossil fuel is contingent upon efficient processes to eliminate undesirable characteristics of biomass, e.g., low bulk density, variability, and storage-induced quality problems. Mechanical size reduction via comminution is a processing operation to engineer favorable biomass flowability in handling. Crumbler rotary shear mill has been empirically demonstrated to produce more uniformly shaped particles with higher flowability than hammermilled biomass. This study combines modeling and experimentation to unveil fundamental understandings of the relation between granular particle characteristics and biomass flow behavior, which elucidate underlying mechanisms and guide selection of critical processing parameters. For this purpose, the impact of critical material attributes, including particle size (2–6 mm), particle shape (briquette, chip, clumped-sphere, cube, etc.), and surface roughness, on the angle of repose (AOR) of milled pine chips were investigated using discrete element method (DEM) simulations. Forest Concepts Crumbler rotary shear system is used to produce milled pine particles within the same size range considered in DEM simulations. AOR of different sets of these particles were measured experimentally to benchmark DEM results against experimental data. Specific energy consumption for the comminution of biomass with different particle size and moisture content are measured for technoeconomic analysis. Our results show that the smaller size (2 mm) of pine particle achieves better followability (i.e., smaller AOR) while the energy cost of comminution is significantly higher and bulk density is almost the same as the 6-mm pine particles. For the 2-mm particle size, Crumbles from veneer have better flow properties than Crumbles from chips. Contrarily, no significant difference was observed between the AOR of the two materials for the 6-mm particle size. Furthermore, from DEM simulations, mechanical interlocking between particles was found as a dominant factor in determining AOR of complex-shaped particles such as milled pine, which cannot be accurately captured by using simple particle shapes (e.g., mono-sphere) with a rolling resistance model. Conversely, clumped-sphere model alleviates this limitation without increasing computational cost significantly and can be used for accurate representation of biomass granular particles when simulating free-flow behavior.
Grain Size and Macrosegregation Control of Large-Sized AA2219 Billets by Internal Electromagnetic Stirring in DC Casting
Authors: Zhao Haodong , Zhang Zhifeng , Li Bao , Bai Yuelong , Gao Mingwei
Published: May 2022

This work focuses on the effect of internal electromagnetic stirring (IEMS) on grain size and macrosegregation in direct-chill (DC) casting of an AA2219 billet with a diameter of 880 mm. The IEMS process has been applied to provide forced convection within the solidifying melt to achieve an efficient reduction of mean grain size and alleviate the formation of macrosegregation. Two casting electromagnetic parameters (the stirring electric current and frequency) of the IEMS process were applied to assess the uniformity of the microstructure and macrosegregation of the billet. The experimental results show that finer and more uniform grains in the billet prepared by the IEMS process than those of traditional DC casting have been observed. The IEMS process has a great influence on the improvement of the macrosegregation, but the greater electromagnetic field would result in worse macrosegregation in the center of the billet.
Rapid Multilateral and Integrated Public Health Response to a Cross-City Outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis Infections Combining Analytical, Molecular, and Genomic Epidemiological Analysis
Authors: Jiang Min , Yang Chao , Kwan Patrick S. L. , Zhang Liping , Fan Hang , Jin Yujuan , Sun Lifang , Chen Hongyu , Li Baisheng , Chen Qiuxia , Wu Yarong , Guo Yan , Shi Yuanguo , Liao Min , Shi Xiaolu , Liu Jianping , Jiang Lijuan , Cai Rui , Deng Yinhua , Sun Qun , Yang Ruifu , Zhang Qiaoli , Cui Yujun , Hu Qinghua
Published: May 2022

On September 21, 2019, the Shenzhen and Dongguan Centers for Disease Control and Prevention received notification of a large cluster of suspected gastroenteritis involving primarily children who sought medical care at hospitals throughout two adjacent cities in China, Shenzhen, and Dongguan. A joint outbreak response was promptly initiated across jurisdictions in a concerted effort between clinical microbiologists, epidemiologists, and public health scientists. Concurrently, multiplex PCRs were used for rapid laboratory diagnosis of suspected cases; epidemiological investigations were conducted to identify the outbreak source, complemented by near real-time multicenter whole-genome analyses completed within 34 h. Epidemiological evidence indicated that all patients had consumed egg sandwiches served on September 20 as snacks to children and staff at a nursery in Dongguan, located near Shenzhen. Salmonella Enteritidis was isolated from case-patients, food handlers, kitchenware, and sandwiches with kitchen-made mayonnaise. Whole-genome single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based phylogenetic analysis demonstrated a well-supported cluster with pairwise distances of ≤1 SNP between genomes for outbreak-associated isolates, providing the definitive link between all samples. In comparison with historical isolates from the same geographical region, the minimum pairwise distance was >14 SNPs, suggesting a non-local outbreak source. Genomic source tracing revealed the possible transmission dynamics of a S. Enteritidis clone throughout a multi-provincial egg distribution network. The efficiency and scale with which multidisciplinary and integrated approaches were coordinated in this foodborne disease outbreak response was unprecedented in China, leading to the timely intervention of a large cross-jurisdiction Salmonella outbreak.
Towards Strain-Level Complexity: Sequencing Depth Required for Comprehensive Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Analysis of the Human Gut Microbiome
Authors: Liu Pu , Hu Shuofeng , He Zhen , Feng Chao , Dong Guohua , An Sijing , Liu Runyan , Xu Fang , Chen Yaowen , Ying Xiaomin
Published: May 2022

Intestinal bacteria strains play crucial roles in maintaining host health. Researchers have increasingly recognized the importance of strain-level analysis in metagenomic studies. Many analysis tools and several cutting-edge sequencing techniques like single cell sequencing have been proposed to decipher strains in metagenomes. However, strain-level complexity is far from being well characterized up to date. As the indicator of strain-level complexity, metagenomic single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been utilized to disentangle conspecific strains. Lots of SNP-based tools have been developed to identify strains in metagenomes. However, the sufficient sequencing depth for SNP and strain-level analysis remains unclear. We conducted ultra-deep sequencing of the human gut microbiome and constructed an unbiased framework to perform reliable SNP analysis. SNP profiles of the human gut metagenome by ultra-deep sequencing were obtained. SNPs identified from conventional and ultra-deep sequencing data were thoroughly compared and the relationship between SNP identification and sequencing depth were investigated. The results show that the commonly used shallow-depth sequencing is incapable to support a systematic metagenomic SNP discovery. In contrast, ultra-deep sequencing could detect more functionally important SNPs, which leads to reliable downstream analyses and novel discoveries. We also constructed a machine learning model to provide guidance for researchers to determine the optimal sequencing depth for their projects (SNPsnp, https://github.com/labomics/SNPsnp). To conclude, the SNP profiles based on ultra-deep sequencing data extend current knowledge on metagenomics and highlights the importance of evaluating sequencing depth before starting SNP analysis. This study provides new ideas and references for future strain-level investigations.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Chlorogenic Acid Against Yersinia enterocolitica
Authors: Chen Kun , Peng Chuantao , Chi Fang , Yu Chundi , Yang Qingli , Li Zhaojie
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, developing new and natural compounds with antibacterial activities from plants has become a promising approach to solve antibiotic resistance of pathogenic bacteria. Chlorogenic acid (CA), as a kind of phenolic acid existing in many plants, has been found to process multifunctional activities including antibacterial activity. Herein, the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of CA against Yersinia enterocolitica (Y. enterocolitica) were tested for the first time, and its mechanism of action was investigated. It was demonstrated that CA could exert outstanding antibacterial activity against Y. enterocolitica. Biofilm susceptibility assays further indicated that CA could inhibit biofilm formation and decrease the established biofilm biomass of Y. enterocolitica. It was deduced that through binding to Y. enterocolitica, CA destroyed the cell membrane, increased the membrane permeability, and led to bacterial cell damage. In addition, the transcriptomic analysis revealed that CA could disorder many physiological pathways, mainly including the ones of antagonizing biofilms and increasing cell membrane permeability. Finally, the spiked assay showed that the growth of Y. enterocolitica in milk was significantly inhibited by CA. Taken together, CA, as an effective bactericidal effector with application potential, exerts antagonistic activity against Y. enterocolitica by mainly intervening biofilm formation and membrane permeability-related physiological pathways.
Identification of IQGAP1 as a SLC26A4 (Pendrin)-Binding Protein in the Kidney
Authors: Xu Jie , Barone Sharon , Varasteh Kia Mujan , Holliday L. Shannon , Zahedi Kamyar , Soleimani Manoocher
Published: May 2022

Background: Several members of the SLC26A family of transporters, including SLC26A3 (DRA), SLC26A5 (prestin), SLC26A6 (PAT-1; CFEX) and SLC26A9, form multi-protein complexes with a number of molecules (e.g., cytoskeletal proteins, anchoring or adaptor proteins, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, and protein kinases). These interactions provide regulatory signals for these molecules. However, the identity of proteins that interact with the Cl−/HCO3− exchanger, SLC26A4 (pendrin), have yet to be determined. The purpose of this study is to identify the protein(s) that interact with pendrin.

Methods: A yeast two hybrid (Y2H) system was employed to screen a mouse kidney cDNA library using the C-terminal fragment of SLC26A4 as bait. Immunofluorescence microscopic examination of kidney sections, as well as co-immunoprecipitation assays, were performed using affinity purified antibodies and kidney protein extracts to confirm the co-localization and interaction of pendrin and the identified binding partners. Co-expression studies were carried out in cultured cells to examine the effect of binding partners on pendrin trafficking and activity.

Results: The Y2H studies identified IQ motif-containing GTPase-activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) as a protein that binds to SLC26A4’s C-terminus. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments using affinity purified anti-IQGAP1 antibodies followed by western blot analysis of kidney protein eluates using pendrin-specific antibodies confirmed the interaction of pendrin and IQGAP1. Immunofluorescence microscopy studies demonstrated that IQGAP1 co-localizes with pendrin on the apical membrane of B-intercalated cells, whereas it shows basolateral expression in A-intercalated cells in the cortical collecting duct (CCD). Functional and confocal studies in HEK-293 cells, as well as confocal studies in MDCK cells, demonstrated that the co-transfection of pendrin and IQGAP1 shows strong co-localization of the two molecules on the plasma membrane along with enhanced Cl−/HCO3− exchanger activity.

Conclusion: IQGAP1 was identified as a protein that binds to the C-terminus of pendrin in B-intercalated cells. IQGAP1 co-localized with pendrin on the apical membrane of B-intercalated cells. Co-expression of IQGAP1 with pendrin resulted in strong co-localization of the two molecules and increased the activity of pendrin in the plasma membrane in cultured cells. We propose that pendrin’s interaction with IQGAP1 may play a critical role in the regulation of CCD function and physiology, and that disruption of this interaction could contribute to altered pendrin trafficking and/or activity in pathophysiologic states.
Unexpected Dynamic Binding May Rescue the Binding Affinity of Rivaroxaban in a Mutant of Coagulation Factor X
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Li , Chen Changming , Qu Si-Ying , Ding Qiulan , Xu Qin
Published: May 2022

A novel coagulation factor X (FX) Tyr319Cys mutation (Y99C as chymotrypsin numbering) was identified in a patient with severe bleeding. Unlike the earlier reported Y99A mutant, this mutant can bind and cleave its specific chromogenetic substrate at a normal level, suggesting an intact binding pocket. Here, using molecular dynamics simulations and MM-PBSA calculations on a FX-rivaroxaban (RIV) complex, we confirmed a much stronger binding of RIV in Y99C than in Y99A on a molecular level, which is actually the average result of multiple binding poses in dynamics. Detailed structural analyses also indicated the moderate flexibility of the 99-loop and the importance of the flexible side chain of Trp215 in the different binding poses. This case again emphasizes that binding of ligands may not only be a dynamic process but also a dynamic state, which is often neglected in drug design and screening based on static X-ray structures. In addition, the computational results somewhat confirmed our hypothesis on the activated Tyr319Cys FX (Y99C FXa) with an impaired procoagulant function to bind inhibitors of FXa and to be developed into a potential reversal agent for novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC).
Alpha- and Gamma-Tocopherol Modulates the Amyloidogenic Pathway of Amyloid Precursor Protein in an in vitro Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Transcriptional Study
Authors: Pahrudin Arrozi Aslina , Shukri Siti Nur Syazwani , Mohd Murshid Nuraqila , Ahmad Shahzalli Ahmad Baihaqi , Wan Ngah Wan Zurinah , Ahmad Damanhuri Hanafi , Makpol Suzana
Published: May 2022

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing pathway was altered in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and contributed to abnormal amyloid-beta (Aβ) production, which forms insoluble interneuron protein aggregates known as amyloid plaques in the brain. Targeting the APP processing pathway is still fundamental for AD modifying therapy. Extensive research has evaluated the protective effects of vitamin E as an antioxidant and as a signaling molecule. The present study aimed to investigate the modulatory effects of different tocopherol isomers on the expression of genes involved in regulating the APP processing pathway in vitro. The screening for the effective tocopherol isomers in reducing APP expression and Aβ-42 was carried out in SH-SY5Y stably overexpressed APP Swedish. Subsequently, quantitative one-step real-time PCR was performed to determine the modulatory effects of selected tocopherol isomers on the expression of genes in SH-SY5Y stably overexpressed three different types of APP (wild-type, APP Swedish, and APP Swedish/Indiana). Our results showed that all tocopherol isomers, especially at higher concentrations (80–100 μM), significantly increased (p < 0.05) the cell viability in all cells group, but only α-tocopherol (ATF) and γ-tocopherol (GTF) significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the APP mRNA level without statistically significant APP protein level, accompanied with a reduced significance (p < 0.05) on the level of Aβ-42 in SH-SY5Y APP Swedish. On the other hand, β- and δ-tocopherol (BTF and DTF) showed no effects on the level of APP expression and Aβ-42. Subsequent results demonstrated that ATF and GTF significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the expression of gene beta-site APP cleaving enzyme (BACE1), APH1B, and Nicastrin (NCSTN), but significantly increased (p < 0.05) the expression of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in SH-SY5Y stably expressed the mutant APP form. These findings suggested that ATF and GTF could modulate altered pathways and may help ameliorate the burden of amyloid load in AD.
Prospective Comparison of Hypofractionated Versus Normofractionated Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer: Late Toxicity Results of the Non-Inferiority KOSIMA Trial (ARO2010-3)
Authors: Sarria Gustavo R. , Welzel Grit , Polednik Martin , Wenz Frederik , Abo-Madyan Yasser
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To compare the late toxicity profile of hypofractionation and normofractionation for whole-breast radiotherapy in breast cancer (BC) patients after conserving surgery.

Methods

Sixty-year-old or older patients with pTis-pT3, pN0-pN1a, M0 BC were recruited and stratified to hypofractionated (arm R-HF) or normofractionated (arm L-NF) intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), for right- and left-sided BC, respectively, in this single-center, non-randomized, non-inferiority trial. A boost was allowed if indicated. The primary outcome was the cumulative percentage of patients developing grade III fibrosis, grade I telangiectasia, and/or grade II hyperpigmentation after 2 years, with a pre-specified non-inferiority margin of 15% increase from an expected 2-year toxicity rate of 20%.

Results

The Median follow-up was 4.93 (0.57–8.65) years for R-HF and 5.02 (0.65–8.72) years for L-NF (p=0.236). The median age was 68 (60–83 and 60–80) years, respectively. In total, 226 patients were recruited (107 for R-HF and 119 for L-NF), with 100 and 117 patients suitable for assessment, respectively. A boost was delivered in 51% and 53% of each arm, respectively. Median PTV volumes were 1013.6 (273–2805) cm3 (R-HF) and 1058.28 (315–2709) cm3 (L-NF, p=0.591). The 2-year primary endpoint rate was 6.1% (95% CI 1.3-11.7, n=5 of 82) and 13.3% (95% CI 7-20.2, n=14 of 105), respectively (absolute difference -7.2%, one-sided 95% CI ∞ to -0.26, favoring R-HF). No local recurrence-free- or overall-survival differences were found.

Conclusion

In this prospective non-randomized study, hypofractionation did not have higher toxicity than normofractionated whole-breast IMRT.
Mycobiomes of the Ocular Surface in Bacterial Keratitis Patients
Authors: Jayasudha Rajagopalaboopathi , Chakravarthy Sama Kalyana , Prashanthi Gumpili Sai , Sharma Savitri , Garg Prashant , Murthy Somasheila I. , Shivaji Sisinthy
Published: May 2022

Inflammation of the cornea is known as keratitis, and bacteria, fungi, protozoans, and viruses are the etiological agents of this disease. Delayed treatment of keratitis could result in loss of vision and, under certain severity conditions, the removal of an eye and its associated structures. In the current study, the ocular surface (conjunctiva and cornea) mycobiomes of individuals with bacterial keratitis were compared with the ocular mycobiome (conjunctiva) of healthy individuals, free of any ocular morbidity. Mycobiomes were generated through NGS approach using conjunctival swabs and corneal scrapings as the source of DNA from which ITS2 was amplified and sequenced, as a proxy to identify fungi. The results indicated significant changes in the alpha-diversity indices and in the abundance at the phylum and genera level. Hierarchical clustering using a heatmap showed that the mycobiomes were different. Furthermore, NMDS plots also differentiated the mycobiomes in the three cohorts, implying dysbiosis in the mycobiomes of the conjunctivae and corneal scrapings of bacterial keratitis individuals compared to control individuals. A preponderance of negative interactions in the hub genera in the conjunctival swabs of bacterial keratitis individuals compared to healthy controls further re-emphasized the differences in the mycobiomes. The dysbiotic changes at the genera level in conjunctivae and corneal scrapings of bacterial keratitis individuals are discussed with respect to their possible role in causing or exacerbating ocular surface inflammation. These results demonstrate dysbiosis in the ocular mycobiome in bacterial keratitis patients compared to healthy controls for the first time.
GM-CSF-miRNA-Jak2/Stat3 Signaling Mediates Chemotherapy-Induced Cancer Cell Stemness in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Xiang Xue , Ma Hai-zhong , Chen Ya-qiong , Zhang Dong-zhi , Ma Shi-xu , Wang Hong-jing , Liu De-ming , Yuan Yuan , Cai Hui
Published: May 2022

Chemotherapy serves as the first choice in clinic to treat advanced gastric cancer. However, emerging evidence indicated the induction of drug resistance and cancer stem cells occasionally by chemotherapy, which seriously limit the therapeutic effects, but the regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Here we treated two human gastric cancer cell lines SGC7901 and BGC823 with 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) or Cisplatin (DDP) in vitro. The survived cells showed significant increase of drug resistance, cell stemness and cytokine GM-CSF expression and secretion. As such, GM-CSF was applied to stimulate gastric cancer cells, followed by the subpopulation of CD133+ CSC analysis, sphere formation assay and stemness genes expression analysis. As a result, CSCs showed induction by GM-CSF treatment. A gastric cancer animal model further indicated that the gastric cancer cells significantly promoted tumor growth after GM-CSF treatment in vivo. High-throughput miRNA and mRNA sequencing analyses identified a subset of miRNAs and mRNAs under regulation of both 5-Fu and GM-CSF in gastric cancer cells, including upregulation of miR-877-3p and downregulation of SOCS2. Targeted overexpression or knockdown of miR-877-3p in gastric cancer cells revealed the oncogenic function of miR-877-3p in regulating gastric cancer by suppressing target gene SOCS2. Jak2/Stat3 signaling pathway, as a downstream target of SOCS2, showed activation in vitro and in vivo after treatment with miR-877-3p or GM-CSF. Our findings not only revealed a novel mechanism through which chemotherapy induced CSCs in gastric cancer via GM-CSF-miRNA-Jak2/Stat3 signaling, but also provided an experimental evidence for appropriate dose reduction of adjuvant chemotherapy in treatment of cancer patients.
Inhibition of Spleen Tyrosine Kinase Restores Glucocorticoid Sensitivity to Improve Steroid-Resistant Asthma
Authors: Liu Qian , Hua Lijuan , Bao Chen , Kong Luxia , Hu Jiannan , Liu Chao , Li Ziling , Xu Shuyun , Liu Xiansheng
Published: May 2022

Background: Regulation or restoration of therapeutic sensitivity to glucocorticoids is important in patients with steroid-resistant asthma. Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) is activated at high levels in asthma patients and mouse models, and small-molecule Syk inhibitors such as R406 show potent anti-inflammatory effects in the treatment of immune inflammatory diseases. Several downstream signaling molecules of Syk are involved in the glucocorticoid response, so we hypothesized that R406 could restore sensitivity to dexamethasone in severe steroid-resistant asthma.

Objective: To discover the role of the Syk inhibitor R406 in glucocorticoid resistance in severe asthma.

Methods: Steroid-resistant asthma models were induced by exposure of C57BL/6 mice to house dust mite (HDM) and β-glucan and by TNF-α administration to the bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B. We evaluated the role of the Syk inhibitor R406 in dexamethasone (Dex)-insensitive airway inflammation. Pathological alterations and cytokines in the lung tissues and inflammatory cells in BALF were assessed. We examined the effects of Dex or R406 alone and in combination on the phosphorylation of MAPKs, glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and Syk, as well as the transactivation and transrepression induced by Dex in mouse lung tissues and BEAS-2B cells.

Results: Exposure to HDM and β-glucan induced steroid-resistant airway inflammation. The Syk inhibitor R406 plus Dex significantly reduced airway inflammation compared with Dex alone. Additionally, TNF-α-induced IL-8 production in BEAS-2B cells was not completely inhibited by Dex, while R406 markedly promoted the anti-inflammatory effect of Dex. Compared with Dex alone, R406 enhanced Dex-mediated inhibition of the phosphorylation of MAPKs and GR-Ser226 induced by allergens or TNF-α in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, R406 also restored the impaired expression and nuclear translocation of GRα induced by TNF-α. Then, the activation of NF-κB and decreased HDAC2 activity in the asthmatic model were further regulated by R406, as well as the expression of GILZ.

Conclusions: The Syk inhibitor R406 improves sensitivity to dexamethasone by modulating GR. This study provides a reference for the development of drugs to treat severe steroid-resistant asthma.
Damping of Alfvén Waves in MHD Turbulence and Implications for Cosmic Ray Streaming Instability and Galactic Winds
Authors: Lazarian Alex , Xu Siyao
Published: May 2022

Alfvénic component of MHD turbulence damps Alfvénic waves. The consequences of this effect are important for many processes, from cosmic ray (CR) propagation to launching outflows and winds in galaxies and other magnetized systems. We discuss the differences in the damping of the streaming instability by turbulence and the damping of a plane parallel wave. The former takes place in the system of reference aligned with the local direction of magnetic field along which CRs stream. The latter is in the reference frame of the mean magnetic field and traditionally considered in plasma studies. We also compare the turbulent damping of streaming instability with ion-neutral collisional damping, which becomes the dominant damping effect at a sufficiently low ionization fraction. Numerical testing and astrophysical implications are also discussed.
Measurement of Anomalous Forces From a Cooper-Pair Current in High-Tc Superconductors With Nano-Newton Precision
Authors: Tajmar M. , Neunzig O. , Kößling M.
Published: May 2022

Does a supercurrent drag space-time or generate a gravitational field that can be measured in a laboratory environment? A number of theories suggest that space-time itself could be modeled as a superfluid, so a current of Cooper-pairs might couple to its surroundings differently compared to non-quantum matter. On the other hand, experiments appeared in the literature suggesting that a discharge through a high-Tcsuperconductor generates a force beam, which can be picked up by external sensors. We developed a unique facility to investigate if such a link exists with unprecedented accuracy. Instead of measuring with sensors far away from the superconductor, we built a very precise thrust balance that features a cryostat allowing to measure any anomalous force directly from the superconducting source. An onboard battery and a wireless-controllable power supply as well as strict coaxial current leads ensure that any magnetic interaction with its surroundings is below the measurement noise. Our tests were done for both BSCCO and YBCO superconductors with and without the presence of a magnetic field parallel to the current flow. No force was seen within our resolution of around 100 nN for currents up to 15 A. This puts strong limits on all proposed theories and experimental claims.
Multiple dsRNases Involved in Exogenous dsRNA Degradation of Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Yao Yang , Lin Dong-Jiang , Cai Xiang-Yun , Wang Ran , Hou You-Ming , Hu Chao-Hua , Gao San-Ji , Wang Jin-Da
Published: May 2022

RNAi is regarded as a promising technology for pest control. However, not all insects are sensitive to RNAi. Studies have confirmed that insect dsRNases are one of key factors affecting RNAi efficiency. In the current study, we identified four genes coding for dsRNases from the Spodoptera frugiperda genome. Spatial and temporal expression analysis showed that those dsRNases were highly expressed in the midgut and old larvae. Then a delivery method was applied for inducing efficient RNAi based on dsRNA encapsulated by liposome. Furthermore, we assessed degradation efficiency by incubation with dsRNA with gut juice or hemocoel to characterize potential roles of different SfdsRNases after suppression of SfdsRNase. The result showed that interferenced with any sfdsRNase reduced the degradation of exogenous dsRNA in midgut, interfered with sfdsRNase1 and sfdsRNase3 slowed down the degradation of exogenous dsRNA in hemolymph. Our data suggest the evolutionary expansion and multiple high activity dsRNase genes would take part in the RNAi obstinate in S. frugiperda, besides we also provide an efficient RNAi method for better use of RNAi in S. frugiperda.
GNSS NLOS Signal Classification Based on Machine Learning and Pseudorange Residual Check
Authors: Ozeki Tomohiro , Kubo Nobuaki
Published: May 2022

Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) positioning has recently garnered attention for autonomous driving, machine control, and construction sites. With the development of low-cost multi-GNSS receivers and the advent of new types of GNSS, such as Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, the potential of GNSS positioning has increased. New types of GNSS directly increase the number of line-of-sight (LOS) signals in dense urban areas and improve positioning accuracy. However, GNSS receivers can observe both LOS and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) signals in dense urban areas, and more NLOS signals are observed under static conditions than under dynamic conditions. The classification of LOS and NLOS signals is important, and various methods have been proposed, such as C/N0, using three-dimensional maps, fish-eye view, and GNSS/inertial navigation system integration. Multipath detection based on machine learning has also been reported in recent years. In this study, we propose a method for detecting NLOS signals using a support vector machine (SVM) classifier modeled with unique features that are calculated by receiver independent exchange format-based information and GNSS pseudorange residual check. We found that using both the SVM classifier and GNSS pseudorange residual check effectively reduced the error due to NLOS signals. Several static tests were conducted near high-rise buildings that are likely to receive some NLOS signals in downtown Tokyo. For all static tests, the percentage of positioning errors within 10 m in the horizontal positioning error was improved by >80% by detecting and eliminating satellites receiving NLOS signals.
Relevance between Proximal Humeral Migration and Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Zhang Yichong , Chen Jianhai , Ma Mingtai , Ju Jiabao , Jiang Baoguo , Zhang Peixun
Published: May 2022

Background

Proximal humeral migration is common in patients with rotator cuff tears. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relevance between proximal humeral migration and some rotator cuff tear-related factors.

Methods

A total of 75 patients with unilateral rotator cuff tears were retrospectively included from August 2016 to January 2018 who underwent magnetic resonance imaging and X-ray examinations before enrollment. We introduced the upward migration index (UMI) to stratify the patients into three groups, Group A: 1 < UMI ≤ 1.3; Group B: 1.3 < UMI ≤ 1.4; and Group C: UMI > 1.4. Pearson correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the relationship between UMI and age, sex, body mass index, pain, fatty degeneration grade, tear size, and thickness of ruptured tendon. Then, the χ2 test and receiver operator characteristic curve were applied to measure the diagnostic value of UMI.

Results

The average UMI was 1.34 ± 0.07, ranging from 1.16 to 1.48. For the Pearson correlation analysis, there was a negative correlation between UMI and tear size (R = −0.68, p < 0.01), and also, there was a negative correlation between UMI and the visual analogue scale score (R = 0.342, p < 0.01). What is more, there was a negative correlation between UMI and the fatty degeneration grade (R = −0.373, p < 0.01). Ordinal multinomial logistic regression analysis indicated that tear size (β = −1.825, p < 0.001) was the independent predictor of UMI, which was a risk factor for humeral upward migration. The cutoff points of UMI were 1.38 and 1.3 to determine tears and distinguish large tears from small ones.

Conclusions

UMI is a good predictor for humeral upward migration, which is related to the tear size of posterosuperior cuff tears. When the UMI is <1.3, a large tear should be alerted. Combining physical examination and X-ray is helpful for evaluating rotator cuff tears.
Experimental Optimization of Metal Foam Structural Parameters to Improve the Performance of Open-Cathode Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Fan Linhao , Wu Siyuan , Tongsh Chasen , Zhang Yanyi , Yang Zirong , Du Qing , Hao Dong , Zhou Feikun , Jiao Kui
Published: May 2022

Using metal foam as a flow field structure is an attractive route to improve the performance of open-cathode PEMFC. Metal foam has shown great potential in improving the uniformity of reactants, but optimized structure parameters that can more effectively transfer gas and remove excess water are needed. Here we experimentally investigate the effect of metal foam structure parameters on cell performance using polarization curves, power density curves, and electrochemical impedance spectrum (EIS) measurements. By optimizing the pore density, thickness, and compression ratio of the metal foam, the performance of the fuel cell is improved by 49.8%, 42.1%, and 7.3%, respectively. The optimum structure value of metal foam is the pore density of 40 PPI, the thickness of 2.4 mm, and the compression ratio of 4:2.4. In this configuration, the cell could achieve a maximum power density of 0.485 W cm−2. The findings of this work are beneficial for the application of metal foams in open-cathode PEMFC.
Creation and Validation of a Tool for Evaluating Caregiver Burnout Syndrome in Owners of Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) Diagnosed with Behavior Disorders
Authors: Barrios Carmen Luz , Gornall Vanessa , Bustos-López Carlos , Cirac Rosa , Calvo Paula
Published: May 2022

Currently, domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are the most common species among companion animals. The close bond that can grow between owners and their dogs could be worn out and finally broken due to various causes. One main cause is canine behavioral problems, leading to dogs being abandoned or euthanized due to the costs faced by the owner when caring for the animal. Tools have been developed to evaluate the mental and emotional cost of caring for humans, but there is currently no validated tool for evaluating this particular problem. The objective of this study was to develop a questionnaire to evaluate caregiver burnout syndrome for owners of dogs with behavioral disorders. The methodology used consisted of drafting the tool, peer validation using the Delphi methodology and internal validation via Cronbach’s alpha. Non-linear snowball sampling was used (n = 156 participants). A questionnaire with 35 questions was obtained which referred to various aspects of caregivers’ lives. Regarding the description of the sample used, 50% had Low Burnout, 41% had Medium-Low Burnout and 9% had Medium-High Burnout. Furthermore, regarding the internal validation of the questionnaire, the general Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was α = 0.9468. We can thus conclude that the questionnaire is valid for measuring caregiver burnout syndrome in owners of dogs with behavioral disorders.
Toward a Lattice Boltzmann Method for Solids—Application to Static Equilibrium of Isotropic Materials
Authors: Maquart Tristan , Noël Romain , Courbebaisse Guy , Navarro Laurent
Published: May 2022

This work presents a novel method for simulating the behavior of solid objects with the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). To introduce and validate our proposed framework, comparative studies are performed for computing the static equilibrium of isotropic materials. Remembering that the LBM has strong theoretical foundations in the Boltzmann equation; this latter is firstly adjusted to solid motions, through its Boltzmann-Vlasov special case. This is indeed the case when combined with a suitable mean-field external force term to set a reliable solid framework. Secondly, a library is built and plugged on the top of the well-known Parallel Lattice Boltzmann Solver (PaLaBoS) library. Numerical implementations based on the previous equation of motion for solids are led in a non-intrusive manner so as to present results with an easy and flawless reproducibility. A newly designed Lattice Boltzmann Method for Solids (LBMS) is exhibited through a few key algorithms, showing the overall operation plus the major improvements. Efficiency, robustness and accuracy of the proposed approach are illustrated and contrasted with a commercial Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software. The obtained results reveal considerable potential concerning static and further dynamic simulations involving solid constitutive laws within the LBM formalism.
Thermal Performance Analysis of Gradient Porosity Aluminium Foam Heat Sink for Air-Cooling Battery Thermal Management System
Authors: Wang Peizhuo , Qin Dongchen , Wang Tingting , Chen Jiangyi
Published: May 2022

The three dimensional thermal model of a forced air-cooling battery thermal management system (BTMS) using aluminium foam heat sink (AFHS) is established, and the effects of porosity, pore density, and mass flow rate on the thermal and flow performance are discussed numerically from the aspects of pressure drop and temperature control effectiveness. The results reveal that an AFHS can markedly reduce the battery temperature compared with the BTMS without AFHS, but it also causes huge pressure loss and increases the temperature difference between the upstream and downstream of the battery. Reducing the porosity of aluminium foam reduces the battery’s average temperature, but increases the temperature difference. The increase of pore density leads to the increase of pressure drop, but has little effect on the battery temperature. Based on this, a study of the gradient porosity of the AFHS is carried out, and the thermal and flow performance are compared with the homogeneous AFHS. The results show that the AFHS with porosity-increasing gradient pattern (PIGP) in the direction perpendicular to flow reduces the pressure loss and improves flow performance. The AFHS with a porosity-decreasing gradient pattern (PDGP) in the flow direction has no obvious effect on the flow characteristics, but it can reduce the temperature difference of the battery. The direction of gradient porosity can be selected according to need. In addition, due to the energy absorption characteristics of aluminium foam, AFHS can improve the crashworthiness of the battery pack. Therefore, AFHS has great potential in air-cooled BTM.
FEM Analysis of the Effect of Polarization on the Electromechanical Coupling Factor of Resonators with a Wrap-Around Electrode
Authors: Novák Josef
Published: May 2022

The efficiency of electromechanical conversion in piezoelectric elements is assessed according to the magnitude of the electromechanical coupling coefficient. For power applications of piezoelectric elements, it is desirable that the efficiency of electrical to mechanical energy conversion be as high as possible. In case of resonators with electrodes incompletely covering their bases, an inhomogeneous electric field is generated, which results in inhomogeneous polarization of the resonator. The resonator will be polarized in some places either in a direction other than the desired one or not polarized at all. The degree of polarization of the resonator is one of the factors affecting the electromechanical coupling coefficient. The aim of this work is to analyze the magnitude of the electromechanical coupling coefficient of resonators with electrodes incompletely covering the bases and to compare the results with the electromechanical coupling coefficient of resonators with fully electroded bases. The physical description is given by the linear piezoelectric equations, the Gaussian equation for the electric field, and by Newton’s law of force. On this basis, a FEM model is developed and used to analyze the electromechanical coupling coefficient. The result of the calculation of the electromechanical coupling cofficient is that for resonators with a wrap-around electrode in studied shape and dimensions there will be a decrease in the electromechanical coupling coefficient compared to a fully electroded resonator of identical dimensions. The presented conclusions are compared with analytically and experimentaly achieved results.