bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-source information fusion approach in tunnel collapse risk analysis based on improved Dempster–Shafer evidence theory
Authors: Wu Bo , Qiu Weixing , Huang Wei , Meng Guowang , Huang Jingsong , Xu Shixiang
Published: March 2022

The tunneling collapse is the main engineering hazard in the construction of the drilling-and-blasting method. The accurate assessment of the tunneling collapse risk has become a key issue in tunnel construction. As for assessing the tunneling collapse risk and providing basic risk controlling strategies, this research proposes a novel multi-source information fusion approach that combines Bayesian network (BN), cloud model (CM), support vector machine (SVM), Dempster–Shafer (D–S) evidence theory, and Monte Carlo (MC) simulation technique. Those methods (CM, BN, SVM) are used to analyze multi-source information (i.e. statistical data, physical sensors, and expert judgment provided by humans) respectively and construct basic probability assignments (BPAs) of input factors under different risk states. Then, these BPAs will be merged at the decision level to achieve an overall risk evaluation, using an improved D–S evidence theory. The MC technology is proposed to simulate the uncertainty and randomness of data. The novel approach has been successfully applied in the case of the Jinzhupa tunnel of the Pu-Yan Highway (Fujian, China). The results indicate that the developed new multi-source information fusion method is feasible for (a) Fusing multi-source information effectively from different models with a high-risk assessment accuracy of 98.1%; (b) Performing strong robustness to bias, which can achieve acceptable risk assessment accuracy even under a 20% bias; and (c) Exhibiting a more outstanding risk assessment performance (97.9% accuracy) than the single-information model (78.8% accuracy) under a high bias (20%). Since the proposed reliable risk analysis method can efficiently integrate multi-source information with conflicts, uncertainties, and bias, it provides an in-depth analysis of the tunnel collapse and the most critical risk factors, and then appropriate remedial measures can be taken at an early stage.
Endurance exercise ameliorates Western diet–induced atherosclerosis through modulation of microbiota and its metabolites
Authors: Huang Wen-Ching , Tung Chun-Liang , Yang Yu-Chen S. H. , Lin I-Hsuan , Ng Xin Er , Tung Yu-Tang
Published: March 2022

The World Health Organization determined cardiovascular disease to be the leading cause of death globally; atherosclerosis is the primary cause of the high morbidity and mortality rates. Regular physical activity is an effective strategy for maintaining endothelial health and function to prevent the development of atherosclerosis. Obesity is also a crucial risk factor for atherosclerotic progression in combination with various complications and systemic inflammation. Physiological homeostasis is modulated by the intestinal microbiota, but the mechanisms through which exercise attenuates atherosclerosis through the microbiota have not been elucidated. Therefore, we investigated the effects of endurance exercise on atherosclerosis induced by a Western diet (WD) and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout in terms of microbiota parameters and metabolites. Genetically modified ApoE knockout mice (C57BL/6-Apoeem1Narl/Narl, ApoEKO) and wild-type mice (C57BL6/J) were divided into the following four groups (n = 6), namely, wild-type mice fed a chow diet (WT CD), ApoEKO mice fed a chow diet (ApoE CD), ApoEKO mice fed a WD (ApoE WD), and ApoEKO mice fed a WD and performing endurance exercise (ApoE WD EX), for a 12-week intervention. The WD significantly induced obesity and atherosclerotic syndrome in the ApoE WD group. Severe atherosclerotic lesions and arterial thickness were significantly elevated and accompanied by increases in VCAM-1, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β for immune cell chemotaxis and inflammation during atherosclerotic pathogenesis in the ApoE WD group. In addition, dysbiosis in the ApoE WD group resulted in the lowest short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. Endurance exercise intervention (ApoE WD EX) significantly alleviated atherosclerotic syndrome by reducing obesity, significantly inhibiting VCAM-1, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β expression, and increasing the production of SCFAs. Modulation of the microbiota associated with inflammation, such as Desulfovibrio, Tyzzerella, and Lachnospiraceae_ge, and increased SCFA production, particularly through an abundance of Rikenellaceae and Dubosiella, were also observed after exercise intervention. Endurance exercise can alleviate WD-induced atherosclerosis through the amelioration of obesity, inflammation, and chemotaxis signaling, which are modulated by the microbiota and derived SCFAs.
Incidence and predictors of left atrial appendage thrombus on transesophageal echocardiography before elective cardioversion
Authors: Wegner Felix K. , Radke Robert , Ellermann Christian , Wolfes Julian , Fischer Alicia J. , Baumgartner Helmut , Eckardt Lars , Diller Gerhard-Paul , Orwat Stefan
Published: March 2022

Guidelines recommend transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before cardioversion in thrombogenic arrhythmias when the requirement of ≥ 3 weeks of anticoagulation is not met. Current data to support this approach, especially with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC), are scarce. We analyzed consecutive elective pre-cardioversion TEE in a high-volume electrophysiology center for the occurrence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombi or reduced LAA flow velocity. Possible predictors were recorded and compared in a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Consecutive pre-cardioversion TEE in 512 patients (148 female, median age 69 years) were included. In all patients, indication for TEE was either intake of anticoagulation < 3 weeks before cardioversion or uncertain adherence to the prescribed anticoagulation regimen. Of the 512 TEE, 19 (3.7%) depicted a LAA thrombus. An additional 41 patients (8.0%) showed either a reduced LAA flow velocity (≤ 20 cm/s), LAA sludge, or both. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, QRS width on admission 12-lead ECG emerged as a possible predictor of LAA thrombus and reduced LAA flow (p = 0.008). Noteworthy, a high CHA2DS2-VASc score was not associated with an increased risk of reduced LAA emptying velocity and LAA thrombi were even found in patients with a CHA2DS2-VASc score of 0 (n = 1) and 1 (n = 1). The presence of LAA thrombus before an elective cardioversion is a rare event in the age of direct oral anticoagulants. However, LAA thrombi occurred even in supposed low-risk individuals according to the CHA2DS2-VASc score. QRS width may aid in identifying patients at risk of reduced LAA flow velocity.
Squeezed vacuum interaction with an optomechanical cavity containing a quantum well
Authors: Jabri H. , Eleuch H.
Published: March 2022

We investigate a hybrid system consisting of an optomechanical resonator and an optical cavity containing a quantum well. The system is coupled to a squeezed vacuum reservoir. We analyze the effect of the injection of squeezed photons inside the cavity on the intensity spectrum. The system reaches a regime of hybrid resonance where mechanical, excitonic and cavity modes are intermixed. Despite that the optomechanical interaction is the source of the nonlinearity in the system, the optimum squeezing is obtained at the hybrid resonance frequencies. However, when the squeezed vacuum is applied, at these frequencies the minimum squeezing is realized as well as an increase of fluctuations is observed. We show that the squeezed vacuum transforms the coherent states into highly squeezed states of light, and offers a great flexibility to obtain maximal squeezing. Furthermore, a perfect squeezing is predicted.
Reference database of total retinal vessel surface area derived from volume-rendered optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Maloca Peter M. , Feu-Basilio Silvia , Schottenhamml Julia , Valmaggia Philippe , Scholl Hendrik P. N. , Rosinés-Fonoll Josep , Marin-Martinez Sara , Inglin Nadja , Reich Michael , Lange Clemens , Egan Catherine , Zweifel Sandrine , Tufail Adnan , Spaide Richard F. , Zarranz-Ventura Javier
Published: March 2022

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) enables three-dimensional, high-resolution, depth-resolved flow to be distinguished from non-vessel tissue signals in the retina. Thus, it enables the quantification of the 3D surface area of the retinal vessel signal. Despite the widespread use of OCTA, no representative spatially rendered reference vessel surface area data are published. In this study, the OCTA vessel surface areas in 203 eyes of 107 healthy participants were measured in the 3D domain. A Generalized Linear Model (GLM) model analysis was performed to investigate the effects of sex, age, spherical equivalent, axial length, and visual acuity on the OCTA vessel surface area. The mean overall vessel surface area was 54.53 mm2 (range from 27.03 to 88.7 mm2). OCTA vessel surface area was slightly negatively correlated with age. However, the GLM model analysis identified axial length as having the strongest effect on OCTA vessel surface area. No significant correlations were found for sex or between left and right eyes. This is the first study to characterize three-dimensional vascular parameters in a population based on OCTA with respect to the vessel surface area.
Replacing quarantine of COVID-19 contacts with periodic testing is also effective in mitigating the risk of transmission
Authors: Foncea Patricio , Mondschein Susana , Olivares Marcelo
Published: March 2022

The quarantine of identified close contacts has been vital to reducing transmission rates and averting secondary infection risk before symptom onset and by asymptomatic cases. The effectiveness of this contact tracing strategy to mitigate transmission is sensitive to the adherence to quarantines, which may be lower for longer quarantine periods or in vaccinated populations (where perceptions of risk are reduced). This study develops a simulation model to evaluate contact tracing strategies based on the sequential testing of identified contacts after exposure as an alternative to quarantines, in which contacts are isolated only after confirmation by a positive test. The analysis considers different number and types of tests (PCR and lateral flow antigen tests (LFA)) to identify the cost-effective testing policies that minimize the expected infecting days post-exposure considering different levels of testing capacity. This analysis suggests that even a limited number of tests can be effective at reducing secondary infection risk: two LFA tests (with optimal timing) avert infectiousness at a level that is comparable to 14-day quarantine with 80–90% adherence, or equivalently, 7–9 day quarantine with full adherence (depending on the sensitivity of the LFA test). Adding a third test (PCR or LFA) reaches the efficiency of a 14-day quarantine with 90–100% adherence. These results are robust to the exposure dates of the contact, test sensitivity of LFA and alternative models of viral load evolution, which suggests that simple testing rules can be effective for improving contact tracing in settings where strict quarantine adherence is difficult to implement.
A retrospective cohort study of 238,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths in Brazil
Authors: Sobral Marcos Felipe Falcão , Roazzi Antonio , da Penha Sobral Ana Iza Gomes , de Oliveira Brigitte Renata Bezerra , Duarte Gisleia Benini , da Silva Jadson Freire , Nogueira Renata Maria Toscano Barreto Lyra
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has overwhelmed health care systems in many countries and bed availability has become a concern. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) times in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The study covered 55,563 ICU admissions and 238,075 hospitalizations in Brazilian Health System units from February 22, 2020, to June 7, 2021. All the patients had a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. The symptoms analyzed included: fever, dyspnea, low oxygen saturation (SpO2 < 95%), cough, respiratory distress, fatigue, sore throat, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of taste, loss of smell, and abdominal pain. We performed Cox regression in two models (ICU and hospitalization times). Hazard ratios (HRs) and survival curves were calculated by age group. The average stay was 14.4 days for hospitalized patients and 12.4 days for ICU patients. For hospitalized cases, the highest hazard mean values, with a positive correlation, were for symptoms of dyspnea (HR = 1.249; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.225–1.273) and low oxygen saturation (HR = 1.157; 95% CI 1.137–1.178). In the ICU, the highest hazard mean values were for respiratory discomfort (HR = 1.194; 95% CI 1.161–1.227) and abdominal pain (HR = 1.100; 95% CI 1.047–1.156). Survival decreased by an average of 2.27% per day for hospitalization and 3.27% per day for ICU stay. Survival by age group curves indicated that younger patients were more resistant to prolonged hospital stay than older patients. Hospitalization was also lower in younger patients. The mortality rate was higher in males than females. Symptoms related to the respiratory tract were associated with longer hospital stay. This is the first study carried out with a sample of 238,000 COVID-19 positive participants, covering the main symptoms and evaluating the hospitalization and ICU times.
The temporal dedifferentiation of global brain signal fluctuations during human brain ageing
Authors: Ao Yujia , Kou Juan , Yang Chengxiao , Wang Yifeng , Huang Lihui , Jing Xiujuan , Cui Qian , Cai Xueli , Chen Jing
Published: March 2022

The variation of brain functions as healthy ageing has been discussed widely using resting-state brain imaging. Previous conclusions may be misinterpreted without considering the effects of global signal (GS) on local brain activities. Up to now, the variation of GS with ageing has not been estimated. To fill this gap, we defined the GS as the mean signal of all voxels in the gray matter and systematically investigated correlations between age and indices of GS fluctuations. What’s more, these tests were replicated with data after hemodynamic response function (HRF) de-convolution and data without noise regression as well as head motion data to verify effects of non-neural information on age. The results indicated that GS fluctuations varied as ageing in three ways. First, GS fluctuations were reduced with age. Second, the GS power transferred from lower frequencies to higher frequencies with age. Third, the GS power was more evenly distributed across frequencies in ageing brain. These trends were partly influenced by HRF and physiological noise, indicating that the age effects of GS fluctuations are associated with a variety of physiological activities. These results may indicate the temporal dedifferentiation hypothesis of brain ageing from the global perspective.
Optically-assisted thermophoretic reversible assembly of colloidal particles and E. coli using graphene oxide microstructures
Authors: Joby Jostine Puthenveetil , Das Suman , Pinapati Praveenkumar , Rogez Benoît , Baffou Guillaume , Tiwari Dhermendra K. , Cherukulappurath Sudhir
Published: March 2022

Optically-assisted large-scale assembly of nanoparticles have been of recent interest owing to their potential in applications to assemble and manipulate colloidal particles and biological entities. In the recent years, plasmonic heating has been the most popular mechanism to achieve temperature hotspots needed for extended assembly and aggregation. In this work, we present an alternative route to achieving strong thermal gradients that can lead to non-equilibrium transport and assembly of matter. We utilize the excellent photothermal properties of graphene oxide to form a large-scale assembly of silica beads. The formation of the assembly using this scheme is rapid and reversible. Our experiments show that it is possible to aggregate silica beads (average size 385 nm) by illuminating thin graphene oxide microplatelet by a 785 nm laser at low intensities of the order of 50–100 µW/µm2. We further extend the study to trapping and photoablation of E. coli bacteria using graphene oxide. We attribute this aggregation process to optically driven thermophoretic forces. This scheme of large-scale assembly is promising for the study of assembly of matter under non-equilibrium processes, rapid concentration tool for spectroscopic studies such as surface-enhanced Raman scattering and for biological applications.
OCT guided micro-focal ERG system with multiple stimulation wavelengths for characterization of ocular health
Authors: Carlson Michael , Kim Sanghoon , Aparicio-Domingo Silvia , Li Kang V. , Puig Ben , Batabyal Subrata , Canto-Soler M. Valeria , Mohanty Samarendra
Published: March 2022

Inherited retinal disorders and dry age-related macular degeneration are characterized by the degeneration and death of different types of photoreceptors at different rate and locations. Advancement of new therapeutic interventions such as optogenetics gene therapy and cell replacement therapies are dependent on electrophysiological measurements at cellular resolution. Here, we report the development of an optical coherence tomography (OCT) guided micro-focal multi-color laser stimulation and electroretinogram (ERG) platform for highly localized monitoring of retina function. Functional evaluation of wild type and transgenic pigs affected by retinal degeneration was carried out using OCT guided micro-focal ERG (μfERG) with selected stimulation wavelengths for S, M and L cones as well as rod photoreceptors. In wild type pigs, μfERG allowed functional recording from rods and each type of cone photoreceptor cells separately. Furthermore, functional deficits in P23H transgenic pigs consistent with their retinal degeneration phenotype were observed, including decrease in the S and M cone function and lack of rod photoreceptor function. OCT guided μfERG based monitoring of physiological function will enable characterization of animal models of retinal degenerative diseases and evaluation of therapeutic interventions at the cellular level.
Extracellular pyruvate kinase M2 promotes osteoclastogenesis and is associated with radiographic progression in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Han Dong Woo , Choi Yong Seok , Kim Hye Won , Shin Seunghwan , Ha You-Jung , Kang Eun Ha , Park Jun Won , Park Jin Kyun , Shin Kichul , Song Yeong Wook , Lee Yun Jong
Published: March 2022

Extracellular PKM2 (exPKM2) levels have been reported to be increased in several cancers and inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study aimed to investigate the association of circulating exPKM2 levels with radiographic progression in RA patients and the effect of exPKM2 on osteoclastogenesis. Plasma and synovial fluid exPKM2 levels were significantly elevated in RA patients. Plasma exPKM2 levels were correlated with RA disease activity and were an independent predictor for radiographic progression in RA patients with a disease duration of ≤ 12 months. CD14+ monocytes but not RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes secreted PKM2 upon stimulation with inflammatory mediators. Recombinant PKM2 (rPKM2) increased the formation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive multinuclear cells and resorption pit in osteoclast precursors, dose-dependently, even in the absence of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL). rPKM2 treatment upregulated the expression of dendrocyte-expressed seven transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP) and MMP-9 via the ERK pathway. Although rPKM2 did not directly bind to RAW264.7 cells, extracellular application of pyruvate, the end-product of PKM2, showed effects similar to those seen in rPKM2-induced osteoclastogenesis. These results suggest that exPKM2 is a potential regulator of RA-related joint damage and a novel biomarker for subsequent radiographic progression in patients with early-stage RA.
Zeolite-based monoliths for water softening by ion exchange/precipitation process
Authors: Campanile A. , Liguori B. , Ferone C. , Caputo D. , Aprea P.
Published: March 2022

In this work, the design of a monolithic softener obtained by geopolymer gel conversion is proposed. The softener used consists in a geopolymeric macroporous matrix functionalized by the co-crystallization of zeolite A and X in mixture. The dual nature of the proposed material promotes a softening process based on the synergistic effect of cation exchange and alkaline precipitation. A softening capacity of 90% and 54% for Ca2+ and Mg2+ respectively was attained in 24 h. In fact, the softener reported a Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) value of 4.43 meq g−1. Technical features such as density, porosity and mechanical resistance were also measured. The use of this monolithic softener can improve performance and sustainability of hardness removal from tap water, reducing the production of sludge and adding the possibility to partially regenerate or reuse it.
Comparison between external fixation and pelvic binder in patients with pelvic fracture and haemodynamic instability who underwent various haemostatic procedures
Authors: Jang Ji Young , Bae Keum Soek , Kang Byung Hee , Lee Gil Jae
Published: March 2022

Haemostatic procedures such as preperitoneal pelvic packing (PPP), pelvic angiography (PA), and internal iliac artery ligation are used for haemorrhage control in pelvic fracture patients with haemodynamic instability. Pelvic external fixation (PEF) and pelvic binder (PB) are usually applied with haemostatic procedures to reduce the pelvic volume. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between patients who underwent PEF and PB. Among 173 patients with pelvic fracture admitted to the emergency room of three regional trauma centres between January 2015 and December 2018, the electronic charts of haemodynamically unstable patients were retrospectively analysed. Among the 84 patients included in the analysis, 20 underwent PEF with or without PB, and 64 underwent only PB. There were significant differences in tile classification and laparotomy between the PEF and PB groups (p = 0.023 and p = 0.032). PPP tended to be more frequently preformed in the PEF group (p = 0.054), whereas PA tended to be more commonly performed in the PB group than in the PEF group (p = 0.054). After propensity score matching to adjust for differences in patient characteristics and adjunct haemostatic procedure, there was no significant difference in 7-day, 30-day, and overall mortality rates between the PEF and PB groups (10.5% vs 21.1%, p = 0.660, 21.1% vs 26.3%, p = 1.000, and 26.3% vs 26.3%, p = 1.000). Cox proportional hazard regression analysis and multivariate analysis for correction of covariates (age, lactate, and abdominal injury) showed that PEF was not an independent factor for 30-day mortality compared with PB (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.526; 95% confidence interval, 0.092–3.002; p = 0.469). Among the volume reduction procedures performed with other haemostatic procedures in patients with pelvic fracture and haemodynamic instability, PEF did not significantly reduce the 30-day mortality rate compared to PB.
Lumbar zygapophyseal joints injections under ultrasound guidance an alternative to fluoroscopy guidance in the management of low back pain
Authors: Touboul Estelle , Salomon-Goëb S. , Boistelle M. , Sobhy Danial J. , Deprez V. , Goëb V.
Published: March 2022

Ultrasound-guided injections are an alternative to evaluate in the management of low back pain associated with osteoarthritis of the lumbar facet joints: it eliminates the risk of ionizing radiation for both the patient and the practitioner. This study aims to compare the short-term clinical efficacy of lumbar facet joints injections between ultrasound-guided injections and fluoroscopy-guided injections. Observational, retrospective, single-center study. Patients received one or two lumbar zygapophyseal joints injections under fluoroscopy or ultrasound and a follow-up consultation at one month. Data from 54 patients was collected. The median of the evolution of VAS at one month was − 30 mm [−50.0; −20.0] in the ultrasound group and – 29.5 mm [−47.0; −15.0] (p < 0.001) in the fluoroscopy group with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.835). There were no injection-related complications in either group during the follow-up. The percentage of patients who stopped NSAIDs was not statistically significant between the two groups (p = 1.00). Injections of corticosteroids of lumbar facet joints under ultrasound guidance significantly reduced pain after one month, with no difference found between the two techniques. Ultrasound-guided injections are reliable, accessible and a safe alternative that should be preferred over those under fluoroscopy.
Detection of temporal, spatial and spatiotemporal clustering of malaria incidence in northwest Ethiopia, 2012–2020
Authors: Nigussie Teshager Zerihun , Zewotir Temesgen T. , Muluneh Essey Kebede
Published: March 2022

Malaria is one of Ethiopia's most targeted communicable diseases for elimination. Malaria transmission varies significantly across space and time; and Ethiopia had space–time disparity in its transmission intensities. Considering heterogeneity and transmission intensity at the district level could play a crucial role in malaria prevention and elimination. This study aimed to explore temporal, spatial, and spatiotemporal clusters of malaria incidence in northwest Ethiopia. The analysis is based on monthly malaria surveillance data of districts and collected from the Amhara public health institute. The Kulldorff's retrospective space–time scan statistics using a discrete Poisson model were used to detect temporal, spatial, and space–time clusters of malaria incidence with and without adjusting the altitude + LLIN arm. Monthly malaria incidence had seasonal variations, and higher seasonal indices occurred in October and November. The temporal cluster occurred in the higher transmission season between September and December annually. The higher malaria incidence risk occurred between July 2012 and December 2013 (LLR = 414,013.41, RR = 2.54, P < 0.05). The purely spatial clustering result revealed that the most likely cluster occurred in the north and northwest parts of the region while secondary clusters varied in years. The space–time clusters were detected with and without considering altitude + LLIN arm. The most likely space–time cluster was concentrated in northwestern and western parts of the region with a high-risk period between July 2012 and December 2013 (LLR = 880,088.3, RR = 5.5, P < 0.001). We found eight significant space–time clusters using the altitude + LLIN arm. The most likely space–time cluster occurred in the western and northwestern parts of the region in July 2012–December 2013 (LLR = 886,097.7, RR = 5.55, P < 0.05). However, secondary clusters were located in eastern, northwestern, western parts of regions, which had different cases and relative risks in each cluster. Malaria transmission had temporal, spatial, and space–time variation in the region at the district level. Hence, considering these variations and factors contributing to malaria stratification would play an indispensable role in preventing and controlling practices that ultimately leads to malaria eliminations.
Spread of gambling abstinence through peers and comments in online self-help chat forums to quit gambling
Authors: Yokotani Kenji
Published: March 2022

Habit formation occurs in relation to peer habits and comments. This general principle was applied to gambling abstinence in the context of online self-help forums to quit gambling. Participants in this study, conducted between September 2008 and March 2020, were 161 abstinent and 928 non-abstinent gamblers who participated in online self-help chat forums to quit gambling. They received 269,317 comments during their first 3 years of forum participation. Gamblers had an increased likelihood of 3-year continuous gambling abstinence if they had many peers in the forums. However, they had a decreased likelihood of gambling abstinence if they received rejective comments from the forums. Based on these results, online social network-based interventions may be a new treatment option for gamblers.
Nectin cell adhesion molecule 4 regulates angiogenesis through Src signaling and serves as a novel therapeutic target in angiosarcoma
Authors: Tanaka Yuka , Murata Maho , Tanegashima Keiko , Oda Yoshinao , Ito Takamichi
Published: March 2022

Angiosarcoma is a rare, life-threatening soft tissue sarcoma with malignant endothelial cells that is mainly found in the skin. Multidisciplinary approaches are used to treat patients with unresectable metastasized lesions; considering the cellular origin of angiosarcoma, anti-angiogenic therapy has also been used recently. However, these treatments have limited efficacy, and the survival rate remains low. Thus, more effective treatments need to be developed. Nectin cell adhesion molecule 4 (NECTIN4) is highly expressed in malignant tumors and promotes tumor progression. Thus, NECTIN4 is expected to be a novel therapeutic target for cancer. However, the significance of NECTIN4 in angiosarcoma remains unknown. Using immunohistochemistry, we investigated NECTIN4 expression in 74 tissue samples from angiosarcoma patients, finding variable NECTIN4 expression. In addition, we investigated NECTIN4 expression and function in human angiosarcoma cell lines. NECTIN4 expression was higher in angiosarcoma cells than normal endothelial cells, and angiosarcoma cells were sensitive to monomethyl auristatin E, the cytotoxic part of a NECTIN4-targetting antibody–drug conjugate. NECTIN4 knockdown inhibited the proliferation and angiogenesis of angiosarcoma cells, and Src kinase signaling was shown to be involved in NECTIN4 function, at least in part. NECTIN4-targeted therapy has the potential to be a novel treatment strategy for angiosarcoma.
A novel Streptococcus pneumoniae human challenge model demonstrates Treg lymphocyte recruitment to the infection site
Authors: Szylar Gabriella , Wysoczanski Riccardo , Marshall Helina , Marks Daniel J. B. , José Ricardo , Ehrenstein Michael R. , Brown Jeremy S.
Published: March 2022

To investigate local tissue responses to infection we have developed a human model of killedStreptococcus pneumoniaechallenge by intradermal injection into the forearm.S. pneumoniaeintradermal challenge caused an initial local influx of granulocytes and increases in TNF, IL6 and CXCL8. However, by 48 h lymphocytes were the dominant cell population, mainly consisting of CD4 and CD8 T cells. Increases in local levels of IL17 and IL22 and the high proportion of CD4 cells that were CCR6+suggested a significant Th17 response. Furthermore, at 48 h the CD4 population contained a surprisingly high proportion of likely memory Treg cells (CCR6 positive and CD45RA negative CD4+CD25highCD127lowcells) at 39%. These results demonstrate that the intradermal challenge model can provide novel insights into the human response toS. pneumoniaeand that Tregs form a substantial contribution of the normal human lymphocyte response to infection with this important pathogen.
Feasibility of the Olympic marathon under climatic and socioeconomic change
Authors: Oyama Takahiro , Takakura Jun’ya , Fujii Minoru , Nakajima Kenichi , Hijioka Yasuaki
Published: March 2022

There are concerns about the impact of climate change on Olympic Games, especially endurance events, such as marathons. In recent competitions, many marathon runners dropped out of their races due to extreme heat, and it is expected that more areas will be unable to host the Games due to climate change. Here, we show the feasibility of the Olympic marathon considering the variations in climate factors, socioeconomic conditions, and adaptation measures. The number of current possible host cities will decline by up to 27% worldwide by the late twenty-first century. Dozens of emerging cities, especially in Asia, will not be capable of hosting the marathon under the highest emission scenario. Moving the marathon from August to October and holding the Games in multiple cities in the country are effective measures, and they should be considered if we are to maintain the regional diversity of the Games.
Targeted mesenchymal stem cell therapy equipped with a cell-tissue nanomatchmaker attenuates osteoarthritis progression
Authors: Nasiri Nahid , Hosseini Samaneh , Reihani-Sabet Fakhreddin , Baghaban Eslaminejad Mohamadreza
Published: March 2022

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are at the forefront of research for a wide range of diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA). Despite having attracted the attention of orthopedists, current MSC therapy techniques are limited by poor MSC implantation in tissue defects and lack of lateral tissue integration, which has restricted the efficacy of cell therapy to alleviate OA symptoms only. Here, we developed targeted MSC therapy for OA cartilage using a cell-tissue matchmaking nanoconstruct (C-TMN). C-TMN, as an MSC vehicle, consists of a central iron oxide nanoparticle armed with two types of antibodies, one directed at the MSC surface and the other against articular cartilage. We treated rat OA articular cartilage with intra-articular injections of C-TMN with and without exogenous MSCs. We observed substantial improvements in both symptomatic and radiographic OA caused by C-TMN, which was independent of exogenous MSCs. This new approach could predict a promising future for OA management.
An exploratory study on the role of serum fatty acids in the short-term dietary therapy of gingivitis
Authors: Kruse Anne B. , Gärtner Maximilian , Vach Kirstin , Grueninger Dirk , Peikert Stefanie A. , Ratka-Krüger Petra , Tennert Christian , Woelber Johan P.
Published: March 2022

A previous randomised controlled trial showed that an anti-inflammatory diet (AID) significantly reduced gingival inflammation despite constant plaque values. This exploratory study investigated the role of serum fatty acids in relation to the observed clinical effects. Therefore, data of thirty participants with gingivitis, following either a pro-inflammatory dietary pattern (PID) rich in saturated fat, omega 6 fatty acids, and refined carbohydrates or an AID for 4 weeks, were correlated with corresponding serum samples for a variety of fatty acids. Changes in the fatty acid profile and effects on clinical periodontal parameters were analysed. Results showed that the polyunsatured:saturated fatty acids ratio (PUFA:SFA ratio) and nervonic acid level were significantly higher in the AID group than in the PID group at the end of the study. Significant intragroup differences were seen only in the AID group. Diverse fatty acids showed heterogeneous relations to clinical parameters. This study demonstrated that the serum fatty acid profile was not fundamentally associated with the clinical gingivitis-lowering effects of an AID in short-term, although some fatty acids showed individual relations to clinical parameters with respect to inflammation. Hence, short-term effects of dietary therapy on gingivitis may be rather based on carbohydrate-related effects and/or micronutrients.
Evaluating an internet-delivered fear conditioning and extinction protocol using response times and affective ratings
Authors: Björkstrand Johannes , Pine Daniel S. , Frick Andreas
Published: March 2022

Pavlovian fear conditioning is widely used to study mechanisms of fear learning, but high-throughput studies are hampered by the labor-intensive nature of examining participants in the lab. To circumvent this bottle-neck, fear conditioning tasks have been developed for remote delivery. Previous studies have examined remotely delivered fear conditioning protocols using expectancy and affective ratings. Here we replicate and extend these findings using an internet-delivered version of the Screaming Lady paradigm, evaluating the effects on negative affective ratings and response time to an auditory probe during stimulus presentation. In a sample of 80 adults, we observed clear evidence of both fear acquisition and extinction using affective ratings. Response times were faster when probed early, but not later, during presentation of stimuli paired with an aversive scream. The response time findings are at odds with previous lab-based studies showing slower as opposed to faster responses to threat-predicting cues. The findings underscore the feasibility of employing remotely delivered fear conditioning paradigms with affective ratings as outcome. Findings further highlight the need for research examining optimal parameters for concurrent response time measures or alternate non-verbal indicators of conditioned responses in Pavlovian conditioning protocols.
3D modelling and simulation of the dispersion of droplets and drops carrying the SARS-CoV-2 virus in a railway transport coach
Authors: Armand Patrick , Tâche Jérémie
Published: March 2022

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling and 3D simulations of the air flow and dispersion of droplets or drops in semi-confined ventilated spaces have found topical applications with the unfortunate development of the Covid-19 pandemic. As an illustration of this scenario, we have considered the specific situation of a railroad coach containing a seated passenger infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (and not wearing a face mask) who, by breathing and coughing, releases droplets and drops that contain the virus and that present aerodynamic diameters between 1 and 1000 µm. The air flow is generated by the ventilation in the rail coach. While essentially 3D, the flow is directed from the bottom to the top of the carriage and comprises large to small eddies visualised by means of streamlines. The space and time distribution of the droplets and drops is computed using both an Eulerian model and a Lagrangian model. The results of the two modelling approaches are fully consistent and clearly illustrate the different behaviours of the drops, which fall down close to the infected passenger, and the droplets, which are carried along with the air flow and invade a large portion of the rail coach. This outcome is physically sound and demonstrates the relevance of CFD for simulating the transport and dispersion of droplets and drops with any diameter in enclosed ventilated spaces. As coughing produces drops and breathing produces droplets, both modes of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in human secretions have been accounted for in our 3D numerical study. Beyond the specific, practical application of the rail coach, this study offers a much broader scope by demonstrating the feasibility and usefulness of 3D numerical simulations based on CFD. As a matter of fact, the same computational approach that has been implemented in our study can be applied to a huge variety of ventilated indoor environments such as restaurants, performance halls, classrooms and open-plan offices in order to evaluate if their occupation could be critical with respect to the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus or to other airborne respiratory infectious agents, thereby enabling relevant recommendations to be made.
Laser-induced crystal growth observed in CsPbBr3 perovskite nanoplatelets
Authors: Wu Ruirui , Gong Shunfa , Wu Lifang , Yu Hailong , Han Qiuju , Wu Wenzhi
Published: March 2022

Laser irradiation is used to induce CsPbBr3 NPLs reshaping and morphology control. A hierarchical self-assembly process occurs in the CsPbBr3 NPLs. The crystal growth relies on seeking dynamic balance between heat dissipation and accumulation.
Sequential separation-driven solar methane reforming for H2 derivation under mild conditions
Authors: Ling Yunyi , Wang Hongsheng , Liu Mingkai , Wang Bin , Li Shuang , Zhu Xuancan , Shi Yixiang , Xia Hongde , Guo Ke , Hao Yong , Jin Hongguang
Published: March 2022

Sequential separation-driven steam methane reforming derives low-carbon-footprint H2 with >99% conversion (CH4), yield and selectivity (H2 & CO2) and low energy penalty at 400 °C and 1 bar, and integrates well with solar trough technology.
Long-term maternal intake of inulin exacerbated the intestinal damage and inflammation of offspring rats in a DSS-induced colitis model
Authors: He Ying , Peng Xie , Liu Yang , Wu Qing , Zhou Qiang , Huang Yingyan , Liu Shiya , Hu Liang , Fang Zhengfeng , Lin Yan , Xu Shengyu , Feng Bin , Li Jian , Jiang Xuemei , Zhuo Yong , Wu De , Che Lianqiang
Published: March 2022

Long-term maternal intake of inulin exacerbated the colonic damage and inflammation in DSS-induced offspring rats, associated with the decreased level of acetate and altered intestinal microbiota in colon.
MOF-5-derived ZnO–C nanoparticles combined with α-MnO2 for the efficient degradation of tetracycline under visible light
Authors: Zhao Fang , Wang Yingdi , Shi Yishan , Dong Yuming , Liu Xiang
Published: March 2022

A multifunctional α-MnO2/ZnO–C Z-scheme photocatalyst is fabricated for the effective degradation of tetracycline under visible light irradiation.
Structurally analogous trehalose and sucrose glycopolymers – comparative characterization and evaluation of their effects on insulin fibrillation
Authors: Milewska Małgorzata , Milewski Andrzej , Wandzik Ilona , Stenzel Martina H.
Published: March 2022

Comprehensive comparative characterization of highly structurally similar, RAFT-prepared trehalose and sucrose glycopolymers.
A covalent cobalt diimine-dioxime – fullerene assembly for photoelectrochemical hydrogen production from near-neutral aqueous media
Authors: Sun Dongyue , Morozan Adina , Koepf Matthieu , Artero Vincent
Published: March 2022

The covalent assembly between a cobalt diimine-dioxime complex and a fullerenic moiety results in enhanced catalytic properties in terms of overpotential requirement for H2 evolution and allows its integration in an operating photocathode.
Centralized and distributed hydrogen production using steam reforming: challenges and perspectives
Authors: Han Ja-Ryoung , Park So-Jin , Kim Hyoungtae , Lee Shinje , Lee Jong Min
Published: March 2022

Centralized (left) and distributed (right) hydrogen production technologies using steam methane reforming are critically reviewed by capacity.
Rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) combined with chemometrics for real-time beer analysis
Authors: Kelis Cardoso Victor Gustavo , Sabin Guilherme Post , Hantao Leandro Wang
Published: March 2022

The beer industry plays an important role in the economy since this is the third most consumed beverage worldwide.
Co nanoparticle-decorated pomelo-peel-derived carbon enabled high-efficiency electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Chen Quanying , Liang Jie , Liu Qin , Dong Kai , Yue Luchao , Wei Peipei , Luo Yongsong , Liu Qian , Li Na , Tang Bo , Alshehri Abdulmohsen Ali , Hamdy Mohamed S. , Jiang Zhenju , Sun Xuping
Published: March 2022

Cobalt nanoparticle-decorated pomelo-peel-derived carbon acts as a highly active electrocatalyst for NO3−–to–NH3 conversion, capable of attaining a large faradaic efficiency of 90.1% and an ultrahigh NH3 yield of 1.1 mmol h−1 mgcat.−1.
Cocrystallization-driven self-assembly with vanillic acid offers a new opportunity for surmounting fast and excessive absorption issues of antifungal drug 5-fluorocytosine: a combined theoretical and experimental research
Authors: Bu Fan-Zhi , Yu Yue-Ming , Shen Yu-Li , Liu Lu , Yan Cui-Wei , Wu Zhi-Yong , Li Yan-Tuan
Published: March 2022

The cocrystal of 5-fluorocytosine (FCY) with vanillic acid (VAA) was assembled via a cocrystallization technique, giving a novel understanding for conquering the dose-limited hepatotoxicity caused by the rapid and almost complete absorption of FCY.
Phosphorus(v) tetrapyrazinocorrolazines bearing axial aryloxy groups as pH-sensitive fluorophores and photosensitizers
Authors: Lazovskiy Dmitriy A. , Skvortsov Ivan A. , Novakova Veronika , Stuzhin Pavel A.
Published: March 2022

Phosphorus(v) tetrapyrazinocorrolazines having HO groups in the para-position of axial aryloxy ligands exhibit a pH-switchable PET effect and can be used for the development of solvent- and pH-sensitive fluorophores and photosensitizers.
o-Acetoxylation of oxo-benzoxazines via C–H activation by palladium(ii)/aluminium oxide
Authors: Prajapati Ramanand , Gola Ajay Kant , Kumar Amrendra , Jaiswal Shubham , Tadigoppula Narender
Published: March 2022

Direct activation of sp2 C–H bonds by a palladium catalyst has received significant attention in organic chemistry.
The in situ construction of oxygen-vacancy-rich NiCo2S4@NiMoO4/Ni2P multilevel nanoarrays for high-performance aqueous Zn-ion batteries
Authors: Cen Ze , Yang Fang , Wan Jie , Xu Kaibing
Published: March 2022

The development of active and durable cathode materials is the key to achieving high-performance water-based zinc-ion batteries.
An ICT-FRET-based fluorescent probe for the ratiometric sensing of hypochlorous acid based on a coumarin–naphthalimide derivative
Authors: Li Lin-Ke , Hou Yi-Min , Liu Xiao-Chen , Tian Mei-Ju , Ma Qiu-Juan , Zhu Nan-Nan , Liu Shu-Zhen
Published: March 2022

The probe displays a fast response time (< 2 s), high sensitivity and high selectivity for HOCl.
Robocasting of 3D printed and sintered ceria scaffold structures with hierarchical porosity for solar thermochemical fuel production from the splitting of CO2
Authors: Ben-Arfa Basam A. E. , Abanades Stéphane , Salvado Isabel M. Miranda , Ferreira José M. F. , Pullar Robert C.
Published: March 2022

We report the first ever robocast (additive manufacturing/3D printing) sintered ceria scaffolds, and explore their use for the production of renewable fuels via solar thermochemical fuel production using concentrated solar energy.
Unveiling the advantages of an ultrathin N-doped carbon shell on self-supported tungsten phosphide nanowire arrays for the hydrogen evolution reaction experimentally and theoretically
Authors: Lv Cuncai , Liu Jifeng , Lou Pingping , Wang Xiaobo , Gao Linjie , Wang Shufang , Huang Zhipeng
Published: March 2022

An ultrathin carbon shell on self-supported WP can enhance its physicochemical stability and conductivity, as well as optimize hydrogen adsorption and facilitate water adsorption/dissociation during the HER.
SN- and NS-puckered sugar conformers are precursors of the (6–4) photoproduct in thymine dinucleotide
Authors: Jakhlal Jouda , Denhez Clément , Coantic-Castex Stéphanie , Martinez Agathe , Harakat Dominique , Douki Thierry , Guillaume Dominique , Clivio Pascale
Published: March 2022

The S conformation of at least one sugar residue in the TT site is crucial for (6–4) PP formation. This S sugar can be located at the 5′- or 3′-end of the TT site. The 5′-end S conformer location is the most efficient at providing (6–4) PP.
Aldehyde end-capped CO2-based polycarbonates: a green synthetic platform for site-specific functionalization
Authors: Wang Molin , Liu Shunjie , Chen Xuesi , Wang Xianhong , Wang Fosong
Published: March 2022

Aldehyde end-capped CO2-based polycarbonates were prepared to serve as a green platform for the construction of diverse functional polymers.
Metal-free C(aryl)–P bond cleavage: experimental and computational studies of the Michael addition/aryl migration of triarylphosphines to alkynyl esters
Authors: Sako Makoto , Kanomata Kyohei , Salem Mohamed S. H. , Furukawa Tomohiro , Sasai Hiroaki , Takizawa Shinobu
Published: March 2022

C(aryl)–P bond cleavageviaaddition of phosphine to alkynyl ester in the presence of water.
Bonding dependent lithium storage behavior of molybdenum oxides for next-generation Li-ion batteries
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Lee Chang-Dae , Kim Dong In , Choi Woosung , Seo Dong-Hwa , Yoon Won-Sub
Published: March 2022

Metallic lithium storage occurs in MoO2, whereas MoO3 store lithium by conversion reaction. First-principles calculations demonstrate that the different electrochemical properties originated from the different metal–oxygen bonding of MoO2 and MoO3.