bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three decades of increasing fish biodiversity across the northeast Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Gordó-Vilaseca Cesc , Stephenson Fabrice , Coll Marta , Lavin Charles , Costello Mark John
Published: January 2023

Observed range shifts of numerous species support predictions of climate change models that species will shift their distribution northward into the Arctic and sub-Arctic seas due to ocean warming. However, how this is affecting overall species richness is unclear. Here we analyze 20,670 scientific research trawls from the North Sea to the Arctic Ocean collected from 1994 to 2020, including 193 fish species. We found that demersal fish species richness at the local scale has doubled in some Arctic regions, including the Barents Sea, and increased at a lower rate at adjacent regions in the last three decades, followed by an increase in species richness and turnover at a regional scale. These changes in biodiversity correlated with an increase in sea bottom temperature. Within the study area, Arctic species’ probability of occurrence generally declined over time. However, the increase in species from southern latitudes, together with an increase in some Arctic species, ultimately led to an enrichment of the Arctic and sub-Arctic marine fauna due to increasing water temperature consistent with climate change.
Mitotic chromosome condensation resets chromatin to safeguard transcriptional homeostasis during interphase
Authors: Ramos-Alonso Lucía , Holland Petter , Le Gras Stéphanie , Zhao Xu , Jost Bernard , Bjørås Magnar , Barral Yves , Enserink Jorrit M. , Chymkowitch Pierre
Published: January 2023

Mitotic entry correlates with the condensation of the chromosomes, changes in histone modifications, exclusion of transcription factors from DNA, and the broad downregulation of transcription. However, whether mitotic condensation influences transcription in the subsequent interphase is unknown. Here, we show that preventing one chromosome to condense during mitosis causes it to fail resetting of transcription. Rather, in the following interphase, the affected chromosome contains unusually high levels of the transcription machinery, resulting in abnormally high expression levels of genes
in cis
, including various transcription factors. This subsequently causes the activation of inducible transcriptional programs
in trans
, such as the
GAL
genes, even in the absence of the relevant stimuli. Thus, mitotic chromosome condensation exerts stringent control on interphase gene expression to ensure the maintenance of basic cellular functions and cell identity across cell divisions. Together, our study identifies the maintenance of transcriptional homeostasis during interphase as an unexpected function of mitosis and mitotic chromosome condensation.
Enhancer–promoter entanglement explains their transcriptional interdependence
Authors: Panigrahi Anil K. , Lonard David M. , O’Malley Bert W.
Published: January 2023

Enhancers not only activate target promoters to stimulate messenger RNA (mRNA) synthesis, but they themselves also undergo transcription to produce enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), the significance of which is not well understood. Transcription at the participating enhancer–promoter pair appears coordinated, but it is unclear why and how. Here, we employ cell-free transcription assays using constructs derived from the human
GREB1
locus to demonstrate that transcription at an enhancer and its target promoter is interdependent. This interdependence is observable under conditions where direct enhancer–promoter contact (EPC) takes place. We demonstrate that transcription activation at a participating enhancer–promoter pair is dependent on i) the mutual availability of the enhancer and promoter, ii) the state of transcription at both the enhancer and promoter, iii) local abundance of both eRNA and mRNA, and iv) direct EPC. Our results suggest transcriptional interdependence between the enhancer and the promoter as the basis of their transcriptional concurrence and coordination throughout the genome. We propose a model where transcriptional concurrence, coordination and interdependence are possible if the participating enhancer and promoter are entangled in the form of EPC, reside in a proteinaceous bubble, and utilize shared transcriptional resources and regulatory inputs.
HER2-driven breast cancer suppression by the JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Itah Zeynep , Chaudhry Shanzah , Raju Ponny Sithara , Aydemir Ozkan , Lee Alexandra , Cavanagh-Kyros Julie , Tournier Cathy , Muller William J. , Davis Roger J.
Published: January 2023

The HER2
+
subtype of human breast cancer is associated with the malignant transformation of luminal ductal cells of the mammary epithelium. The sequence analysis of tumor DNA identifies loss of function mutations and deletions of the
MAP2
K4
and
MAP2
K7
genes that encode direct activators of the JUN NH
2
-terminal kinase (JNK). We report that in vitro studies of human mammary epithelial cells with CRISPR-induced mutations in the MAPK and MAP2K components of the JNK pathway caused no change in growth in 2D culture, but these mutations promoted epithelial cell proliferation in 3D culture. Analysis of gene expression signatures in 3D culture demonstrated similar changes caused by HER2 activation and JNK pathway loss. The mechanism of signal transduction cross-talk may be mediated, in part, by JNK-suppressed expression of integrin α6β4 that binds HER2 and amplifies HER2 signaling. These data suggest that HER2 activation and JNK pathway loss may synergize to promote breast cancer. To test this hypothesis, we performed in vivo studies using a mouse model of HER2
+
breast cancer with
Cre/loxP
-mediated ablation of genes encoding JNK (
Mapk8
and
Mapk9
) and the MAP2K (
Map2
k4
and
Map2
k7
) that activate JNK in mammary epithelial cells. Kaplan–Meier analysis of tumor development demonstrated that JNK pathway deficiency promotes HER2
+
-driven breast cancer. Collectively, these data identify JNK pathway genes as potential suppressors for HER2
+
breast cancer.
“I’m not Just Some Criminal, I’m Actually a Person to Them Now”: The Importance of Child-Staff Therapeutic Relationships in the Children and Young People Secure Estate
Authors: Jacob Jenna , D’Souza Sophie , Lane Rebecca , Cracknell Liz , Singleton Rosie , Edbrooke-Childs Julian
Published: January 2023

Therapeutic relationships between children and staff across the Children and Young People Secure Estate (CYPSE) is an under-researched area. The aim of this research is to explore the research question, ‘what are the key elements of the development and maintenance of effective therapeutic relationships?’ Qualitative semi-structured interviews and a focus group were conducted with children in Young Offender Institutions, Secure Training Centers and Secure Children’s Homes in England between February–November 2019 (N = 28 children; 25 interviews, 1 focus group). Framework analysis and grounded theory methodology were applied to the data, and 13 themes were generated. The facilitating properties of good communication, understanding, reciprocal respect, trust, and a sense of fairness in these relationships are highlighted. Positive relationships may be facilitated through the formulation process. The varied experiences of children are considered, highlighting the need for knowledge sharing and training staff in effective helping skills.
Mechanism of use-dependent Kv2 channel inhibition by RY785
Authors: Marquis Matthew James , Sack Jon T.
Published: January 2023

Understanding the mechanism by which ion channel modulators act is critical for interpretation of their physiological effects and can provide insight into mechanisms of ion channel gating. The small molecule RY785 is a potent and selective inhibitor of Kv2 voltage-gated K+ channels that has a use-dependent onset of inhibition. Here, we investigate the mechanism of RY785 inhibition of rat Kv2.1 (Kcnb1) channels heterologously expressed in CHO-K1 cells. We find that 1 µM RY785 block eliminates Kv2.1 current at all physiologically relevant voltages, inhibiting ≥98% of the Kv2.1 conductance. Both onset of and recovery from RY785 inhibition require voltage sensor activation. Intracellular tetraethylammonium, a classic open-channel blocker, competes with RY785 inhibition. However, channel opening itself does not appear to alter RY785 access. Gating current measurements reveal that RY785 inhibits a component of voltage sensor activation and accelerates voltage sensor deactivation. We propose that voltage sensor activation opens a path into the central cavity of Kv2.1 where RY785 binds and promotes voltage sensor deactivation, trapping itself inside. This gated-access mechanism in conjunction with slow kinetics of unblock supports simple interpretation of RY785 effects: channel activation is required for block by RY785 to equilibrate, after which trapped RY785 will simply decrease the Kv2 conductance density.
Direct growth of crystalline SiGe nanowires on superconducting NbTiN thin films
Authors: Wang Xuejing , Thomas Sean M , Baldwin J Kevin , Addamane Sadhvikas , Sheehan Chris , Yoo Jinkyoung
Published: January 2023

Novel heterostructures created by coupling one-dimensional semiconductor nanowires with a superconducting thin film show great potential toward next-generation quantum computing. Here, by growing high-crystalline SiGe nanowires on a NbTiN thin film, the resulting heterostructure exhibits Ohmic characteristics as well as a shift of the superconducting transition temperature (T
c). The structure was characterized at atomic resolution showing a sharp SiGe/NbTiN interface without atomic interdiffusion. Lattice spacing, as calculated from large-area x-ray diffraction experiments, suggests a potential preferred d-spacing matching between (200) NbTiN and (110) SiGe grains. The observed out-of-plane compressive strain within the NbTiN films coupled with SiGe nanowires explains the downward shift of the superconductivity behavior. The presented results post scientific insights toward functional heterostructures by coupling multi-dimensional materials, which could enable tunable superconductivity that benefits the quantum science applications.
AuAg nanocomposites suppress biofilm-induced inflammation in human osteoblasts
Authors: Lee Chiang-Wen , Lin Zih-Chan , Chiang Yao-Chang , Li Sin-Yu , Ciou Jyun-Jia , Liu Kuan-Wen , Lin Yu-Ching , Huang Bo-Jie , Peng Kuo-Ti , Fang Mei-Ling , Lin Tzu-En , Liao Mei-Yi , Lai Chian-Hui
Published: January 2023

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) forms biofilm that causes periprosthetic joint infections and osteomyelitis (OM) which are the intractable health problems in clinics. The silver-containing nanoparticles (AgNPs) are antibacterial nanomaterials with less cytotoxicity than the classic Ag compounds. Likewise, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have also been demonstrated as excellent nanomaterials for medical applications. Previous studies have showed that both AgNPs and AuNPs have anti-microbial or anti-inflammatory properties. We have developed a novel green chemistry that could generate the AuAg nanocomposites, through the reduction of tannic acid (TNA). The bioactivity of the nanocomposites was investigated in S. aureus biofilm-exposed human osteoblast cells (hFOB1.19). The current synthesis method is a simple, low-cost, eco-friendly, and green chemistry approach. Our results showed that the AuAg nanocomposites were biocompatible with low cell toxicity, and did not induce cell apoptosis nor necrosis in hFOB1.19 cells. Moreover, AuAg nanocomposites could effectively inhibited the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondria and in rest of cellular compartments after exposing to bacterial biofilm (by reducing 0.78, 0.77-fold in the cell and mitochondria, respectively). AuAg nanocomposites also suppressed ROS-triggered inflammatory protein expression via MAPKs and Akt pathways. The current data suggest that AuAg nanocomposites have the potential to be a good therapeutic agent in treating inflammation in bacteria-infected bone diseases.
Evaluation of Air Pollution Standard Index for NO2Parameter in Jakarta and Bogor
Authors: Yuwono A S , Pinem A V A , Supandi  , Nisa K , Arif C
Published: January 2023

One Indonesian Air Pollution Standard Index (ISPU) parameter is nitrogen dioxide (NO2), with a minimum concentration of 80 μg/Nm3in ISPU 0-50. This research aim was to evaluate NO2concentrations less than 80 μg/Nm3in ambient air and determine the ISPU number based on NO2concentration. This investigation was conducted from February until April 2021, utilising secondary information compilation and field estimations. The method of the NO2concentration test was based on the national standard SNI 7119-2:2017. The run of NO2concentrations obtained from checking the information in Jakarta and Bogor was 6-51 μg/Nm3, and from inspecting came about 17-40 μg/Nm3. NO2concentrations from monitoring data and sampling were deficiently compared to the NO2minimum concentration limit in ISPU. ISPU number for maximum NO2concentration in Jakarta and Bogor was 32, relatively low than the ISPU NO2minimum standard of 0-50. The relevant NO2concentration limits as an initial indicator of ISPU 0-50 were 0-37 μg/Nm3, and for ISPU 51-100 were 38-68 μg/Nm3based on the NO2toxicity study. Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that the relevant concentration of NO2for ISPU 0-50 is 0-37 μg/Nm3, whereas for ISPU 51-100 is 38-68 μg/Nm3.
Mineralogical Study of Bauxite of Kenco Area, Landak District, West Kalimantan Province, Indonesia
Authors: Jafar N , Nurhawaisyah S R , Widodo S , Chalik C A , Wakila M H
Published: January 2023

Indonesia is a country with a tropical climate that allows for high levels of weathering. Bauxite is the result of weathering rocks that have high aluminum content, low iron content, and little quartz content. The formation of bauxite deposits is controlled by source rock which is rich in Al element, tropical climatic conditions, and geomorphological conditions that allow the formation of the accumulation of weathered source rock products. The altered silicate minerals due to weathering result in the silica element being released from the crystal bonds and some iron are released so that the aluminum element is concentrated as a residual precipitate. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis on 16 bauxite samples which are estimated to represent the overburden horizon, bauxite ore horizon, clay horizon, and source rock to establish the mineral composition of bauxite. Mineral groups in the overburden horizon, bauxite ore horizon, and clay horizon are alumina, iron, titanium, silicates, carbonates, sulfides, and sulfates, while mineral groups in source rock are iron, titanium, silicate, sulfide, and sulfate. The type of bauxite in the study area is gibbsite bauxite based on the dominant appearance frequency of gibbsite compared to mineral corundum as an alumina group.
The geoelectric approach to analyzing the profile of post-mining nickel laterite deposits in the Motui District, North Konawe Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Mustafa H , Maulana A , Irfan U R , Tonggiroh A
Published: January 2023

The profile of laterite nickel deposits following mining operations can be determined using a geoelectric method, which is crucial information for exploration as well as sustainability. The purpose of this research is to ascertain the physical properties and thickness profile of laterite nickel deposits in the subsurface following mining. The geoelectric method used is resistivity to map variations in the apparent resistivity values of rocks. This value reflects the different types of rock layers in the subsurface. Through the use of two electrodes, an electric current was introduced into the earth, and the potential difference that resulted from this injection was then measured. Based on the configuration of the electrodes utilized, the apparent resistivity value can be determined. The profile of laterite nickel deposits in the Motui post-mining area includes three layers, red limonite, yellow limonite, and bedrock, with resistivity values ranging from 17.0 to 1572 Ωm. The resistivity of the red limonite layer ranges from 17.0 to 1572 Ωm, and its depth is 0 to 10 meters. The yellow limonite layer is between 10 and 20 meters thick and has a resistivity range of 17.0 to 31.8 m. The resistivity of bedrock, on the other hand, ranges from 84.2 to 1572 Ωm at depths between 20 and 70 meters.
Laterite profile study of highly weathered ultramafic rocks from the southern part of Southeast Sulawesi
Authors: Asfar S , Maulana A , Irfan U R , Sufriadin
Published: January 2023

This study was carried out in South Konawe Regency, namely in the southern portion of the Southeastern Arm of Sulawesi, with sampling sites made in four different Block areas: (1) Lati Block (Lalembuu-Tinanggea), (2) Torobulu Block, (3) Bangun Jaya Block, and (4) Laonti Block. Determining the profile of laterite deposits created by weathering processes in ultramafic rocks is the goal of this research. The research approach employed is to identify the physical characteristics of their outcrop layering order from top to bottoms of the laterite deposits, such as their color, texture, layer thickness, and mineral composition. In contrast to laterite deposits generally, laterite deposits developed in the South Southeastern Arm of Sulawesi exhibit a unique profile. In particular, the Southeast Sulawesi Arm region’s tectonic activity is closely related to the potency for the development of laterite deposit profiles. The laterite profile types in the research area can be identified by the overburden of each profile, which consists of limestone, sandstone, and a thin layer of coal.
Quality Control Assessment in the River of Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Zainudin M R , You H W , Lee K E , Zahidi A M
Published: January 2023

This paper investigates the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and the pH level along Jelok River, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia. The BOD and pH level are of major interest as microbial activity. Five water sampling locations along the river have been selected. To test the pH level of each water sample, a pH meter was used. To test the BOD of each water sample, the 5-days BOD test was conducted. Using the collected data, the Pearson’s correlation coefficient between the pH and BOD was calculated. The computed Pearson correlation coefficient is -0.67988, indicating that pH does affect BOD of the water, specifically for this river. In addition, it demonstrates that when pH value increases, BOD of the water will decrease. The results show that water pH was quite stable, range between 7.05 to 7.65, while BOD fluctuates wildly, range between 1.4 to 4.3 mg/L. According to the BOD value, the high BOD value was found along the bridge at Changkat Road with 4.3 mg/L, and the lowest was found to be the one at Shell Petrol Station along Semenyih Road with BOD value of 1.4 mg/L. From the findings, public and authority shall be alert of the water performance and actions are necessary to preserve the water quality along this river. In addition, it is recommended to compare the water quality parameters among few rivers in future studies.
Analysis of sediment load on meandering channel due to combined effect of rainfall and flow
Authors: Besar Norhashimah binti Awang haji , Shams Shahriar , Ratnayake Uditha , Rahman Ena Kartina Abdul , Al-Mamun Abdullah
Published: January 2023

Topography, geology, climate change and anthropogenic activity are key factors for erosion that affects channel morphology. Water erosion leads to sedimentation. The study of sediment is important for the management of water quality, river structures as well as flood control. Erosion of soil by water poses a serious problem in terms of degradation of land and eutrophication of water. River or stream erosion is mainly caused by rainfall and streamflow as they detach soil particles and transport them as sediment. The meandering channel is common in most rivers or streams where it is formed by the deposition of sediments due to the depletion of water energy. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the sediment load under the combined effect of rainfall and flow for a meandering channel. This study was conducted based on the Advanced Environmental Hydrology System to determine the relationship among sediment load, rainfall and flow rate. Twenty-five sets of experiments were conducted on a 2 m long, 20 cm wide and 4 cm deep model meandering channel, moulded in the Armfield S12 MKII on a 1% constant slope. Five different rainfalls intensities (0.46 mm/hr, 1.39 mm/hr, 2.78 mm/hr, 3.70 mm/hr and 4.63 mm/hr) and five different flow rates (0.5 L/min, 1.0 L/min, 1.5 L/min, 1.75 L/min and 2.0 L/min) were used to analyse the different trends of sediment load with respect to rainfall and flow rate. This study shows that there is a correlation among rainfall, flow and sediment load. The erosion rate during lowest flow and rainfall is 4.75 g/min and for highest rainfall and flow is 70.2 g/min.
Peat Soil Improvement for Amenable Wetland Development - Review
Authors: Affam Augustine Chioma , Chundi Bagkermaix Anak , Chung Wong Chee
Published: January 2023

This review present various ways to improve peat soil stability or strength. There is need to investigate the applicability of cationic grouts in addition to biochar in peat enhancement towards the development of wetland soil for construction purposes. The effects of several cationic stabilizers such as monovalent, divalent (calcium oxide and calcium chloride), and trivalent in addition to biochar would require investigation on the shear strength improvement of the Sibu peat samples. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests would need to be performed after 7, 21, and 30 days of curing, respectively. Apart from the physicochemical characteristics of the stabilized peat, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy tests would also be necessary to study the changes in the microstructure. Some studies have shown improvement in the application of stabilizers in peat soil towards development of wetlands. These are highlighted in this article. Where changes are observed due to improvement via the various cationic stabilizers and biochar addition, an explanation considering the mineralogical and physicochemical composition on the peat would be important.
Mediating Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Single Use Plastic Production, Usage and Disposal Management Models Correlations
Authors: Zreba Kamal Yousef Ali , Izhar Tengku Nuraiti Tengku , Zakarya Irnis Azura , Hwidi Rajeb Salem A , Hweidi Abdalbaset Salem Amar
Published: January 2023

This research examines the consequences of the COVID-19 epidemic on the production, use, and disposal of single-use plastics. This research explores the intricate relationships between the impacts of COVD-19 on single-use plastic production, usage, and waste management with a focus on the mediating effects of the pandemic related to model parameters and correlations to develop a trustworthy approach. The report examines first the increasing evidence regarding the pandemic’s influence on various users and industries, and then the consequences for waste management and the environment. The research then examined the relationships and modelling framework correlations between the variables utilised to estimate the influence of COVID-induced changes in production, consumption, and management on single-use plastics. The study variables captured the influence of production, usage, and disposal on the environment. The study’s parameters are equally linked to types of usage, have a pronominal effect, and disposal plays a vital role in the environmental impact, which makes them extremely dynamic for parameters in this study. Single-use plastic aggregation in the environment is predicted to be a dominant mechanism by disposal behaviour.
A Review of HKUST-1 Metal-Organic Frameworks in Gas Adsorption
Authors: Chong Kok Chung , Lai Soon Onn , Mah Shee Keat , Thiam Hui San , Chong Woon Chan , Shuit Siew Hoong , Lee Sze Shin , Chong Wan Erl
Published: January 2023

The discovery of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology-1 (HKUST-1) metal-organic framework has made a remarkable improvement in the metal-organic frameworks to achieve the goal of air polluted gas adsorption. Nowadays, HKUST-1 has become a new alternative used as an ideal platform for gas adsorption due to the open metal sites inside the structure with the large adsorption capacity and chemical tunability. The adsorption performance was related to the formation and preparation of the HKUST-1 and its effect on other fabrication parameters. The impact on the fabrications of HKUST-1, such as solvents, reactants, temperature and time, grinding process, and pressure, affected the formation of the surface area and performance of HKUST-1. Air pollution gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and methane (CH4) adsorption on HKUST-1 were studied and discussed. The structure of the HKUST-1 with the presence of the open metal sites, Lewis acid, and the benzene ring structure were the key components to act as a good adsorbate for CO2, CH4, and VOCs gas. Moreover, the incorporated post-synthesized HKUST-1, such as the added functional group, metal cations, or composite materials, could exhibit great adsorption capacities for the polluted gas instead of pristine HKUST-1.
Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) model for PM10 concentrations prediction in Malaysia
Authors: Norazrin R. , Hamid Hazrul Abdul , Yahaya Ahmad Shukri
Published: January 2023

Air pollution in urban areas is a highly complex problem, displaying strong seasonality and dependence on meteorological factors. Urban particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm (PM10) has been identified as one of the most hazardous air pollutants to human health due to the fact that its size range overlaps with that of respirable particles. Models of air quality forecasting are used to provide forecasters with numerical guidance for issuing particulate matter concentration forecasts to human health exposure in a timely manner. The aim of the study was to propose a Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) model for predicting PM10 concentrations in the short term. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) models for short-term PM10 predictions are provided, and performance indicators (IA, R2, RMSE, MAE, and MAPE) are used to find the appropriate model. The Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE) provided seventeen years of daily average air quality monitoring data, including eight parameters (PM10, wind speed, temperature, relative humidity, NO2, SO2, CO, and O3) and five monitoring stations (Perai, Shah Alam, Nilai, Larkin, and Pasir Gudang). The BRT model gave good results for predicting the PM10 concentrations for each station. The results indicated that for the Perai monitoring station (R2 = 0.774), Shah Alam monitoring station (R2 = 0.813), Nilai monitoring station (R2 = 0.792), Larkin monitoring station (R2 = 0.817) and the Pasir Gudang monitoring station (R2 = 0.810). According to the findings, the BRT model should be employed in air pollution research, where it is projected to outperform other methodologies in terms of predictive performance. The findings would enhance the existing air pollution research and forecasting approaches.
Preparation of cerium-based UiO-66 metal-organic framework (MOF) without addition of solvent for developing its sustainable synthesis
Authors: Ho P S , Chong K C , Lai S O , Lu S Y , Lau W J , Ooi B S
Published: January 2023

UiO-66(Ce) metal-organic framework (MOF) has been a promising material for broad applications, including gas adsorption, photocatalysis, water treatment and reaction catalysis. For its usual preparation, a large amount of solvent is required and added during its fabrication process. This solvent is harmful to the environment most of the time. It is neither recyclable nor reusable, indicating the difficulty in waste disposal after MOF fabrication and the challenges for its scaling-up production. Given this, a solvent-free way of synthesizing the UiO-66 MOF to develop its sustainable synthesis was reported here. The MOF can be obtained by mechanically grinding the cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) and terephthalic acid (BDC) using mortar and pestle without the addition of any solvent. Then the mixture was transferred into an autoclave and heated at 100 °C for one day. In this work, UiO-66(Ce) MOF samples with varying Ce to BDC molar ratios were successfully fabricated using the solvent-free method, supported by the XRD, SEM, EDX and FT-IR analysis results. By looking at their XRD patterns, two characteristic peaks for UiO-66(Ce) MOF were observed at 8.4° and 9.1°. The SEM images revealed the spherical crystalline morphology of UiO-66 MOF. At the same time, the EDX analysis result found the elemental composition of UiO-66 MOF was coherent with the reactants used, suggesting the excellent purity of MOF product formed in this work. As verified by the thermal stability test, the UiO-66 MOF produced here is thermally stable up to 250 °C in the air atmosphere.
Properties of High Strength Concrete Containing Spent Garnet as Sand
Authors: Budiea A M A , Azhar N N M , Mokhatar S N , Muthusamy K , Satar M K I M
Published: January 2023

Spent garnet is a waste resulting from abrasive media known as garnet and disposed into the landfill which can become threat to the environment. Meanwhile, the step of substituting sand by spent garnet can reduce sand exploitation activities which have been ongoing to fulfil the continuous development and construction. This work attempts to investigate the mechanical properties of specimens made of concrete that contains spent garnet. This new material replaces sand partially at different percentages of 10% and 20% by weight. The compressive strength test as well as splitting tensile test have been both conducted after 7 days and 28 days water curing. The results show an improvement of the strength during the compressive test. The increment appears to be in positive relationship with the replacement percentage. Meanwhile, splitting tensile strength testing shows that 20% performs better than 10% sand replacement. In conclusion, the inclusion of spent garnet in reasonable amount to take place instead of sand has improved the concrete’s properties.
Improving sustainability of road construction by partial replacement of natural aggregates in subbase layer with crushed brick and reclaimed asphalt pavement
Authors: Razak S M , Yahya N , Zahid M Z , Bulkini A K , Adiyanto M I , Harith N S H , Rizalman A N F , Mohamad M E
Published: January 2023

Reducing dependent on naturally sourced materials is among the priority in improving the sustainability of road construction. The subbase layer which provides strength and stability across the road profile, comprised mainly of natural aggregates. This study aims to explore the feasibility of partial replacement of natural aggregates in subbase layer with 20% Crushed Brick (CB) and 20 to 50% Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP). California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test and Constant Head Permeability tests were carried out to determine the effect of this partial replacement on the geotechnical properties of the subbase layer. The results obtained denotes that the combination of 20% CB and 50% RAP is the optimum partial replacement of natural aggregates in subbase layer with CB and RAP. The use of CB further complements RAP in improving the stiffness and compressibility of the subbase layer while contributing significantly toward sustainability in road construction.
Comparative Environmental Impact Evaluation of Disposable Surgical and Reusable Cloth Face Masks
Authors: Ragaven R , Sara Y Y , Dewika M , Zulkifli A R , Tengku Izhar T N , Amneera W A
Published: January 2023

Malaysia, wearing face mask during Covid-19 outbreak were mandatory. This action has caused significant surge in face mask production which deem to affect environment and human health. This paper evaluates and compared the environmental impacts, in a life cycle assessments perspective between disposable surgical face mask and reusable cloth face mask using cradle-to-grave approaches according to ISO 14040. The environmental impacts were assessed based on nine midpoint impact categories which are ozone depletion, greenhouse gases, acidification, eutrophication, smog formation, human health cancer and non-cancer, human health particulates and ecotoxicity. The functional unit for both types of face masks is a person wearing face mask as protection every day for one year (365 masks for disposable surgical face mask and 3 masks for reusable cloth face mask). The LCA tool used was OpenLCA software with Ecoinvent consequential 3.7.1 version database and TRACI 2.1 for impact method assessment. The study showed that reusable cloth face mask had the lowest impact compared to disposable surgical face mask across the assessed midpoint impact categories. This study suggested incineration as the best disposal method for the End-of-Life (EoL) of both face masks. Sensitive analysis also performed by manipulating the amount of face mask used per individual and it was found that the amount of mask used had significant effects to the environmental performance.
Two-dimensional cuprate nanodetector with single telecom photon sensitivity at T = 20 K
Authors: Merino Rafael Luque , Seifert Paul , Retamal José Durán , Mech Roop K , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Kadowaki Kazuo , Hadfield Robert H , Efetov Dmitri K
Published: January 2023

Detecting light at the single-photon level is one of the pillars of emergent photonic technologies. This is realized through state-of-the-art superconducting detectors that offer efficient, broadband and fast response. However, the use of low T
C superconducting thin films limits their operation temperature to approximately 4 K and below. Here, we demonstrate proof-of-concept nanodetectors based on exfoliated, two-dimensional cuprate superconductor Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8-δ
that exhibit single-photon sensitivity at telecom wavelength at a record temperature of T = 20 K. These non-optimized devices exhibit a slow

∼
 

m
s

reset time and a low detection efficiency (

∼

10

−
4

). We realize the elusive prospect of single-photon sensitivity on a high-T
C nanodetector thanks to a novel approach, combining van der Waals fabrication techniques and a non-invasive nanopatterning based on light ion irradiation. This result paves the way for broader application of single-photon technologies, relaxing the cryogenic constraints for single-photon detection at telecom wavelength.
Investigation of inverse design of multilayer thin-films with conditional invertible neural networks
Authors: Luce Alexander , Mahdavi Ali , Wankerl Heribert , Marquardt Florian
Published: January 2023

In this work, we apply conditional invertible neural networks (cINN) to inversely design multilayer thin-films given an optical target in order to overcome limitations of state-of-the-art optimization approaches. Usually, state-of-the-art algorithms depend on a set of carefully chosen initial thin-film parameters or employ neural networks which must be retrained for every new application. We aim to overcome those limitations by training the cINN to learn the loss landscape of all thin-film configurations within a training dataset. We show that cINNs can generate a stochastic ensemble of proposals for thin-film configurations that are reasonably close to the desired target depending only on random variables. By refining the proposed configurations further by a local optimization, we show that the generated thin-films reach the target with significantly greater precision than comparable state-of-the-art approaches. Furthermore, we tested the generative capabilities on samples which are outside of the training data distribution and found that the cINN was able to predict thin-films for out-of-distribution targets, too. The results suggest that in order to improve the generative design of thin-films, it is instructive to use established and new machine learning methods in conjunction in order to obtain the most favorable results.
Caleosin/peroxygenases: multifunctional proteins in plants
Authors: Hanano Abdulsamie , Blée Elizabeth , Murphy Denis J
Published: January 2023

Background

Caleosin/peroxygenases (CLO/PXGs) are a family of multifunctional proteins that are ubiquitous in land plants and are also found in some fungi and green algae. CLO/PXGs were initially described as a class of plant lipid-associated proteins with some similarities to the oleosins that stabilize lipid droplets (LDs) in storage tissues, such as seeds. However, we now know that CLO/PXGs have more complex structures, distributions and functions than oleosins. Structurally, CLO/PXGs share conserved domains that confer specific biochemical features, and they have diverse localizations and functions.

Scope

This review surveys the structural properties of CLO/PXGs and their biochemical roles. In addition to their highly conserved structures, CLO/PXGs have peroxygenase activities and are involved in several aspects of oxylipin metabolism in plants. The enzymatic activities and the spatiotemporal expression of CLO/PXGs are described and linked with their wider involvement in plant physiology. Plant CLO/PXGs have many roles in both biotic and abiotic stress responses in plants and in their responses to environmental toxins. Finally, some intriguing developments in the biotechnological uses of CLO/PXGs are addressed.

Conclusions

It is now two decades since CLO/PXGs were first recognized as a new class of lipid-associated proteins and only 15 years since their additional enzymatic functions as a new class of peroxygenases were discovered. There are many interesting research questions that remain to be addressed in future physiological studies of plant CLO/PXGs and in their recently discovered roles in the sequestration and, possibly, detoxification of a wide variety of lipidic xenobiotics that can challenge plant welfare.
Demystifying the convergent ecological specialization of desiccation-tolerant vascular plants for water deficit
Authors: Bondi Luiz , de Paula Luiza F A , Rosado Bruno H P , Porembski Stefan
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Desiccation-tolerant vascular plants (DT plants) are able to tolerate the desiccation of their vegetative tissues; as a result, two untested paradigms can be found in the literature, despite contradictions to theoretical premises and empirical findings. First, it is widely accepted that DT plants form a convergent group of specialist plants to water deficit conditions. A derived paradigm is that DT plants are placed at the extreme end of stress tolerance. Here, we tested the hypotheses that DT plants (1) are in fact convergent specialists for water deficit conditions and (2) exhibit ecological strategies related to stress tolerance, conservative resource-use and survival.

Methods

We used biogeographical and functional-traits approaches to address the mentioned paradigms and assess the species’ ecological strategies. For this, 27 DT plants were used and compared to 27 phylogenetically related desiccation-sensitive vascular plants (DS plants).

Key Results

We could not confirm either of the two hypotheses. We found that despite converging in desiccation tolerance, DT plants differ in relation to the conditions in which they occur and the ecological strategies they use to deal with water deficit. We found that some DT plants exhibit advantageous responses for higher growth and resource acquisition, which are suitable responses to cope with more productive conditions or with higher disturbance. We discuss that the ability to tolerate desiccation could compensate for a drought vulnerability promoted by higher investment in growth and bring advantages to deal with quick and pronounced variation of water, rather than to drought solely.

Conclusions

DT plants are not only selected by drought as an environmental constraint. The alternative functional designs could promote the diversity of ecological strategies, which preclude their convergence to the same resources and conditions. Thus, DT plants are a heterogeneous group of plants in how they deal with drought, despite their desiccation tolerance ability.
Identifying physiological and genetic determinants of faba bean transpiration response to evaporative demand
Authors: Mandour Hend , Khazaei Hamid , Stoddard Frederick L , Dodd Ian C
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Limiting maximum transpiration rate (TR) under high vapour pressure deficit (VPD) works as a water conservation strategy. While some breeding programmes have incorporated this trait into some crops to boost yields in water-limited environments, its underlying physiological mechanisms and genetic regulation remain unknown for faba bean (Vicia faba). Thus, we aimed to identify genetic variation in the TR response to VPD in a population of faba bean recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from two parental lines with contrasting water use (Mélodie/2 and ILB 938/2).

Methods

Plants were grown in well-watered soil in a climate-controlled glasshouse with diurnally fluctuating VPD and light conditions. Whole plant transpiration was measured in a gas exchange chamber that tightly regulated VPD around the shoot under constant light, while whole-plant hydraulic conductance and its components (root and stem hydraulic conductance) were calculated from dividing TR by water potential gradients measured with a pressure chamber.

Key Results

Although TR of Mélodie/2 increased linearly with VPD, ILB 938/2 limited its TR above 2.0 kPa. Nevertheless, Mélodie/2 had a higher leaf water potential than ILB 938/2 at both low (1.0 kPa) and high (3.2 kPa) VPD. Almost 90 % of the RILs limited their TR at high VPD with a break-point (BP) range of 1.5–3.0 kPa and about 10 % had a linear TR response to VPD. Thirteen genomic regions contributing to minimum and maximum transpiration, and whole-plant and root hydraulic conductance, were identified on chromosomes 1 and 3, while one locus associated with BP transpiration was identified on chromosome 5.

Conclusions

This study provides insight into the physiological and genetic control of transpiration in faba bean and opportunities for marker-assisted selection to improve its performance in water-limited environments.
Allometric relationships between leaf and petiole traits across 31 floating-leaved plants reveal a different adaptation pattern from terrestrial plants
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Hui , Baastrup-Spohr Lars , Li Zhizhong , Li Wei , Pan Junfeng , Cao Yu
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Allometric scaling between stomata and xylem for terrestrial woody plants is a widely observed pattern that may be constrained by water transport. Floating-leaved plants, a particular life form of aquatic plants, have leaves in direct contact with both air and water and a poorly developed xylem that may not be limited by water supply as for terrestrial plants. However, whether such an allometric scaling relationship still exists in floating-leaved plants has not been explored.

Methods

We analysed 31 floating-leaved species/varieties with a range in leaf area covering six orders of magnitude. For all 31 floating-leaved plants, we studied the allometric relationships between leaf area and petiole transverse area, and between total stomatal area and petiole vascular area.

Key Results

The slopes of both relationships were similar to the slope of the allometric relationship (1.23) between total stomatal area and xylem area of 53 terrestrial plants. However, for ten of them with xylem that can be clearly defined, the strong positive relationship between total stomatal area and petiole xylem area had a significantly smaller slope than that of terrestrial plants (0.64 vs. 1.23). Furthermore, after considering phylogeny, the scaling relationships between total stomatal area and petiole traits in floating-leaved plants remained significant.

Conclusions

We speculated that for floating-leaved plants, the hyperallometric relationship (slope >1) between the construction of leaf/stoma and petiole was promoted by the high demand for photosynthesis and thus more leaves/stomata. While the hypoallometric relationship (slope <1) between stomatal and xylem area was related more to hydraulic processes, the selection pressure on stomata was lower than xylem of floating-leaved plants. Allometric relationships among the hydraulic traits on water transport of aquatic plants are the result of natural selection to achieve maximum carbon gain, which is similar to terrestrial plants.
Remote, Computerised Cognitive Assessment for Breast Cancer- and Treatment-Related Cognitive Dysfunction: Psychometric Characteristics of the Cogsuite Neurocognitive Battery
Authors: Root James C , Gaynor Alexandra M , Ahsan Anam , Jung Duane , Schofield Elizabeth , Ryan Elizabeth , Li Yuelin , Ahles Tim A
Published: January 2023

Objective

Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD) is a significant concern for breast cancer survivors. The Cogsuite battery was developed to improve sensitivity to CRCD with the use of cognitive experimental measures, clarify specific cognitive processes impacted and to be capable of being administered either in-office or remotely.

Methods

In sum, 357 breast cancer survivors and non-cancer controls completed the Cogsuite Battery in-office (n = 76) or remotely (n = 281). Measure validity, sensitivity to demographic factors, correlations with standard neuropsychological measures and intercorrelations of Cogsuite variables were assessed. Test-retest reliability was evaluated in-office (n = 24) and remotely (n = 80).

Results

Test-retest reliability for most variables assessed was adequate to strong. Internal validity, as indicated by the confirmation of expected condition effects within each measure, was established for all measures. Assessment of external validity found age, but not education, was a significant predictor in the majority of measures. Assessment of criterion validity found that Cogsuite variables were correlated with standard measures in psychomotor speed, working memory and executive function, but not associated with self-reported cognition or mood.

Conclusions

Cogsuite is reliable and valid, and is sensitive to the effects of increasing age on cognition. The addition of the Cogsuite battery to standard assessment may improve sensitivity to CRCD and identify underlying processes that may be affected. Remote use of the Cogsuite battery in appropriate settings will lessen the burden for providers, researchers and survivors in research and clinical contexts.
DIST: spatial transcriptomics enhancement using deep learning
Authors: Zhao Yanping , Wang Kui , Hu Gang
Published: January 2023

Spatially resolved transcriptomics technologies enable comprehensive measurement of gene expression patterns in the context of intact tissues. However, existing technologies suffer from either low resolution or shallow sequencing depth. Here, we present DIST, a deep learning-based method that imputes the gene expression profiles on unmeasured locations and enhances the gene expression for both original measured spots and imputed spots by self-supervised learning and transfer learning. We evaluate the performance of DIST for imputation, clustering, differential expression analysis and functional enrichment analysis. The results show that DIST can impute the gene expression accurately, enhance the gene expression for low-quality data, help detect more biological meaningful differentially expressed genes and pathways, therefore allow for deeper insights into the biological processes.