bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hub-Blade Interaction in Propeller Strength
Authors: Beek G. H. M.
Published: December 2022

Stresses in monobloc propeller blade and hub normally are calculated separately. In the blade stress calculation, for which nowadays the finite element method is generally prefer red, the hub is assumed to be rigid. On the other hand the blade is completely ignored if hub strength is considered.

The finite element program, the author used for the blade, also allows the examination of the interference between the stress conditions in both parts since it enables three-dimensional elastic analyses. Moreover, detailed experimental data, obtained in strain gauge measurements on a full scale blade, proved the validity of the chosen element type and mesh for application on propeller blades. Therefore strong tools are available to shift the disturbing boundary conditions from the blade root to the hub-shaft interface and obtain reliable information about the blade root loading and its resolution in the hub.

Results of comparative calculations show the strong influence of the hub elasticity on the stress distribution in the blade root section.
Strength of Propeller Blades - A Numerical Approach
Authors: Jourdain M. , Armand J. L. , Aucher M.
Published: December 2022

Once the face and profile of a propeller blade have been designed from the sole consideration of hydrodynamics, thickness at every point is chosen based on strength requirements.

To this end, prediction of loading distribution is the first step in a rational design, and again involves hydrodynamics. A structural model of the blade is then used to perform the strength analysis.
Bryts isoleringen? Erfarenheter av digitala verktyg inom äldreomsorgen i tre svenska kommuner
Authors:   Nordregio, Jokinen Johanna Carolina , Sánchez Gassen Nora , Olsson Sylvia , Holmner Åsa , Wang Shinan , Löfving Linnea
Published: December 2022

Ensamhet och social isolering utgör betydande utmaningar för äldre som bor själva och på äldreboende, genom att påverka deras fysiska och psykiska hälsa. På grund av krav på självisolering under Covid-19-pandemin har dessa utmaningar förvärrats ytterligare. Användningen av digital teknik inom äldreomsorgen har potential att motverka social isolering, till exempel genom att öka tillgången till hemtjänst och ge möjligheter att delta i sociala aktiviteter samtidigt är kunskaper om effektiviteten av digitala insatser för att motverka äldre människors ensamhet begränsad.
Development of severe junctional bradycardia after dexmedetomidine infusion in a polypharmacy patient: a case report and literature review
Authors: Jeon Soeun , Kim Eunsoo , Lee Sun Hack , Paek Sung In , Ri Hyun-Su , Lee Dowon
Published: December 2022

The authors report a case of newly manifested severe junctional bradycardia following dexmedetomidine administration during spinal anesthesia in a polypharmacy patient. A 77-year-old woman receiving multiple medications, including a beta-blocker and a calcium channel blocker, underwent right total knee arthroplasty. After spinal anesthesia, intravenous dexmedetomidine was initiated as a sedative; her heart rate decreased, followed by junctional bradycardia (heart rate, 37–41 beats/min). Dexmedetomidine was discontinued, and a dopamine infusion was initiated. Seven hours after surgery, junctional bradycardia persisted; a temporary transvenous pacemaker was inserted, and the beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker were discontinued. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 11 without any sequelae. Anesthesiologists should be aware of dexmedetomidine’s inhibitory effects on the cardiac conduction system, especially in geriatric patients taking medications with negative chronotropic effects and in combination with neuraxial anesthesia.
Prácticas artísticas entre género y tecnología
Authors: Martins Inés
Published: December 2022

El papel activo de la cultura tecnológica en la sociedad actual es indiscutible y constituye un fenómeno de estudio analizado desde todas las esferas actuales del saber. En las prácticas del arte, los impulsos creativos y la intimidad tecnológica producen crisis notables en la manipulación de códigos. Como respuesta activa, se está produciendo un interesante encuentro crítico y creativo entre prácticas artísticas, género y software libre. El marco conceptual de estas nuevas comunidades invisibles se orienta al cultivo de la socialización del conocimiento y el trabajo colaborativo.
TikTok: más allá de la hipermedialidad
Authors: De-Santis Andrea , Vintimilla-León Diego
Published: December 2022

Durante el confinamiento producido por la pandemia de la Covid-19, las redes sociales jugaron un papel predominante dentro del ecosistema mediático. Plataformas emergentes como TikTok recibieron un impulso inesperado respecto al número de usuarios registrados y frecuencia de uso. La versatilidad de TikTok ha permitido que se diversifiquen sus propósitos siendo utilizada más allá del entretenimiento, enfocándose hacia fines comerciales políticos y educativos. Además de una visión panorámica de TikTok desde la perspectiva comunicativa, esta publicación incluye reflexiones sobre los medios de comunicación en pandemia, sus vulnerabilidades, amenazas y problemáticas -desinformación, infoxicación y noticias falsas- en un debate que busca prevenir su reiteración en futuras situaciones de crisis.
The NAD+ precursor NMN activates dSarm to trigger axon degeneration in Drosophila
Authors: Llobet Rosell Arnau , Paglione Maria , Gilley Jonathan , Kocia Magdalena , Perillo Giulia , Gasparrini Massimiliano , Cialabrini Lucia , Raffaelli Nadia , Angeletti Carlo , Orsomando Giuseppe , Wu Pei-Hsuan , Coleman Michael P , Loreto Andrea , Neukomm Lukas Jakob
Published: December 2022

Axon degeneration contributes to the disruption of neuronal circuit function in diseased and injured nervous systems. Severed axons degenerate following the activation of an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway, which culminates in the activation of SARM1 in mammals to execute the pathological depletion of the metabolite NAD+. SARM1 NADase activity is activated by the NAD+ precursor nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). In mammals, keeping NMN levels low potently preserves axons after injury. However, it remains unclear whether NMN is also a key mediator of axon degeneration and dSarm activation in flies. Here, we demonstrate that lowering NMN levels in Drosophila through the expression of a newly generated prokaryotic NMN-Deamidase (NMN-D) preserves severed axons for months and keeps them circuit-integrated for weeks. NMN-D alters the NAD+ metabolic flux by lowering NMN, while NAD+ remains unchanged in vivo. Increased NMN synthesis by the expression of mouse nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (mNAMPT) leads to faster axon degeneration after injury. We also show that NMN-induced activation of dSarm mediates axon degeneration in vivo. Finally, NMN-D delays neurodegeneration caused by loss of the sole NMN-consuming and NAD+-synthesizing enzyme dNmnat. Our results reveal a critical role for NMN in neurodegeneration in the fly, which extends beyond axonal injury. The potent neuroprotection by reducing NMN levels is similar to the interference with other essential mediators of axon degeneration in Drosophila.
New Editorial Team for SACS after 16 Years
Authors:   Romanian Academy, Iasi Branch & Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Romania, Aman Bogdan , Ciobanu Gabriel ,   Romanian Academy, Iasi Branch & Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Romania
Published: December 2022

It is our great pleasure to inform you that SACS has from July 2022 a new editorial team.
Behavioural Pseudometrics for Nondeterministic Probabilistic Systems
Authors:   Shanghai Normal University, China, Du Wenjie , Deng Yuxin ,   Shanghai Key Laboratory of Trustworthy Computing, East China Normal University, China, Gebler Daniel ,   VU University Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Published: December 2022

For the model of probabilistic labelled transition systems that allow for the co-existence of nondeterminism and probabilities, we present two notions of bisimulation metrics: one is state-based and the other is distribution-based. We provide a sound and complete modal characterisation for each of them, using real-valued modal logics based on Hennessy-Milner logic. The logic for characterising the state-based metric is much simpler than an earlier logic proposed by Desharnais et al. as it uses only two non-expansive operators rather than the general class of non-expansive operators. For the kernels of the two metrics, which correspond to two notions of bisimilarity, we give a comprehensive comparison with some typical distribution-based bisimilarities in the literature.
An Enhanced Fluid Registration for Image Multi-Frame Super Resolution
Authors:   EMI FST Beni-Mellal, Universite Sultan Moulay Slimane, Maroc, Laghrib Amine , Hadri Aissam ,   Universite Ibn Zohr, Faculte polydisciplinaire, Ouarzazate, Maroc, Hakim Moad ,   EMI FST Beni-Mellal, Universite Sultan Moulay Slimane, Maroc
Published: December 2022

The main idea of multi-frame super resolution (SR) algorithms is to recover a single high-resolution image from a sequence of low resolution ones of the same object. The success of the SR approaches is often related to a well registration and restoration steps. Therefore, we propose a new approach based on fluid image registration and we use a second order partial differential equation (PDE) to treat both the registration and restoration steps that guarantees the success of SR algorithms. Since the registration step is usually a variational ill-posed model, a mathematical study is needed to check the existence of the solution to the regularized problem. Thus, we prove the existence and uniqueness of the well posed fluid image registration and assure also the existence of the used second order PDE in the restoration step. The results show that the proposed method is competitive with the existing methods.
“Naked I came … and naked I shall return:” Relating Job 1:20-22 to the Nigerian Economic Context
Authors: Ademiluka Solomon Olusola
Published: December 2022

The narrator in the book of Job gives the impression that Job remains blameless before God in spite of his innocent suffering. Therefore, Job is commonly employed as an appeal to people in suffering situations. But Job’s words in 1:21, “Naked I came and naked shall I return” apparently became an aphorism among the Jews relating to attitudes toward wealth (Eccl. 5:15; 1 Tm. 6:7). Hence, the adage is relevant in the context of economic suffering, particularly in Nigeria, where the majority of the people suffer poverty. This article therefore examines the pastoral relevance of Job 1:20–22 in the Nigerian economic context. It applies the historical-critical and descriptive methods, adopting a synchronic reading of the book of Job. The work found that Job’s reaction to the loss of his wealth indicates that there is a correlation between righteousness and possessions, which implies an inextricable connection between people’s faith and their economic status. For this reason, preaching cannot afford to ignore the economic condition of its recipients, as is largely the case in Nigeria. The book of Job encourages Nigerian Christians in Job’s condition to have faith in God that their fortunes can change like that of Job. Its pastoral relevance in Nigeria demands that preaching should address the injustice of corruption that has pauperised majority of Nigerians. Keywords: Job, Innocent suffering, Nigerian economy, Corruption, Pastoral response
Assessment of Cell-mediated Immunity to Trichophyton Antigen in Patients with Dermatophytosis: A Case-control Study
Authors: Chopra Shubham , Singh Sudhir , Madke Bhushan
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Dermatophytosis are presenting for longer durations and at atypical sites and are quite persistent. If changes in the Cell-Mediated Immunity (CMI) will be studied then it will help to set treatment guidelines for the management of dermatophytosis to certain extent considering the current changes in the resistance to dermatophytosis. There is paucity in literature regarding the CMI to Trichophyton antigen in dermatophytosis patients in the geographical region of Vidarbha, Maharashtra, India. Aim: To assess the CMI to intradermal Trichophyton antigen in dermatophytosis patients and to study its adverse reaction in these patients. Materials and Methods: The present prospective crosssectional case-control study will be conducted on patients of dermatophytosis attending skin Outpatient Department (OPD) in Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital(AVBRH), Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, during January 2022 to January 2023 (13 months). Patients will be enrolled following fulfillment of study’s eligibility criteria. Clearance has been acquired from the Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC). Participants will be required to sign a written informed consent form in their native language. A detailed history will be collected and cutaneous examination will be done before conducting the study. The area for intradermal injection will be marked. For the study 0.1 mL, Intradermal Trichophyton antigen will be injected in the patient’s forearm. Patient will be called after 48 hours to check for the CMI response (delayed response).
Effect of Nitrogen Levels on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Hybrid Varieties of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Singh Divya , Yadav Atish , Tripathi Ankur , Singh Subhendu , Singh Anil Kumar
Published: December 2022

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different Nitrogen levels on the yield performance of four rice hybrid in two consecutive Monsoon Season of 2020 and 2021. The experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj Ayodhya (U.P.). The experiment was conducted in factorial randomized block design with three replication which comprised of 4 levels of nitrogen viz. 0% RDN, 50% RDN, 75% RDN and 100% RDN and 4 hybrid varieties viz. Arize-6444 Gold, Ankur-7576, 27P31 and Shahi-Dawat. Results revealed that significantly higher yield contributing characters and yield was obtained  at 100% of RDN (150 kg N ha-1) which is at par with 75 % RDN (112 kg N ha-1) and significantly superior over 0% of RDN and 50% of RDN (75kg N ha-1). The growth parameters, yield attributes and yield were recorded significantly higher with Ankur-7576 variety except length of panicle (cm) and test weight (g). Ankur-7576 gave good response in low doses of nitrogenous fertilizer and showed good efficiency in utilization of available and applied nitrogen to the crop and best suitable for obtaining higher yield of hybrid rice.
A Study on the Formation Control Algorithm of Multi-USVs According to COLREGs
Authors: Heo Jinyeong , Kim Hyunseok , Shim Sungjun , Kim Jooyoung , Ryu Jaekwan , Kwon Yongjin
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we propose a formation control algorithm for multi-USVs according to COLREGs. First, we applied the Dynamic Window Approach algorithm that can reflect the kinematic characteristics for the path movement of USVs. Then, we propose a virtual structure-based virtual leader-follower method that applies the advantages of leader-follower and virtual structure methods among conventional formation control algorithms for stability. Next, we proposed a collision avoidance algorithm according to all COLREGs when encountering an opposing ship by adding COLREGs situational conditions to the virtual leader, and finally confirmed the feasibility of the proposed method through simulation.
A Study on the Flight Vibration Environmental Specification of Unmanned Flying Vehicle using Random Vibration Test and Analysis Methods
Authors: Choi Jangseob , Oh Dongho
Published: December 2022

In this study, analysis of dynamic characteristics and flight vibration was performed to unmanned aerial vehicles. The analysis model was supplemented by performing a dynamic characteristic test and a random vibration test using manufactured dummy aerial vehicle. For the dynamic characteristic test, a bungee cable was used to implement the free end boundary condition. Prior to the flight vibration test using a multiple electric shaker, a random vibration test was performed to predict the excitation force during the actual flight vibration test. It was judged that the actual test could be predicted more accurately by supplementing the analysis model from the test results. In addition, it was possible to determine the feasibility of the test by predicting the excitation force of the flight vibration test.
Upregulation of HMGB1 promotes vascular dysfunction in the soft palate of patients with obstructive sleep apnea via the TLR4/NF‐κB/VEGF pathway
Authors: Su Tiantian , Li Cong , Zhang Yu , Yue Lei , Chen Yuqin , Qian Xiaoqiong , Shi Song
Published: December 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by the collapse of the soft palate in the upper airway, resulting in chronic intermittent hypoxia during sleep. Therefore, an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying pathophysiological dysfunction of the soft palate in OSA is necessary for the development of new therapeutic strategies. In the present study, we observed that high mobility group protein box 1 (HMGB1) was released by a large infiltration of macrophages in the soft palate of OSA patients. The toll‐like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B pathway was observed to be activated by the release of HMGB1, and this was accompanied by an increased expression of pro‐inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6. Importantly, increased expression of toll‐like receptor 4 was observed in endothelial cells, contributing to upregulation of the angiogenesis‐related factors vascular endothelial‐derived growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase 9. Moreover, we confirmed the effect of the HMGB1‐mediated toll‐like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B pathway on cell proliferation and angiogenesis in an in vitro cell model of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. We conclude that HMGB1 may be a potential therapeutic target for preventing angiogenesis and pathology in OSA.
Smart Nanoparticle‐Based Platforms for Regulating Tumor Microenvironment and Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Cheng Ruoyu , Santos Hélder A.
Published: December 2022

Tumor development and metastasis are closely related to the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recently, several studies indicate that modulating TME can enhance cancer immunotherapy. Among various approaches to modulating TME, nanoparticles (NPs) with unique inherent advantages and smart modified characteristics are promising candidates in delivering drugs to cancer cells, amplifying the therapeutic effects, and leading to a cascade of immune responses. In this review, several smart NP‐based platforms are briefly introduced, such as responsive NPs, targeting NPs, and the composition of TME, including dendritic cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells. Moreover, the recent applications of smart NP‐based platforms in regulating TME and cancer immunotherapy are briefly introduced. Last, the advantages and disadvantages of these smart NP‐based platforms in potential clinical translation are discussed.
Strain Relaxation for Perovskite Lattice Reconfiguration
Authors: Jin Bowen , Cao Jinguo , Yuan Ruihan , Cai Bing , Wu Congcong , Zheng Xiaojia
Published: December 2022

The perovskite lattice strain correlating to its physical chemistry not only impacts the optoelectronic properties but also the long‐term stability. The relaxation of perovskite lattice strain has been recognized as an important pathway to improve photovoltaic performance and broaden the application scope. With the growth of research interest and the thriving of synthetical approaches in strain engineering, it is particularly necessary to summarize the current strategies to give an in‐depth understanding of the relaxation of lattice strain. Herein, the milestones in strain relaxation studies are summarized and the theoretical simulation and methodological approach to correlate the crystal structure and physical properties at an atomic level is outlined. This perspective provides fundamentals to theoretically predict and experimentally measure the strain relaxation effect and suggests design principles and synthetical strategies for tackling the lattice strain issue for perovskites.
Integration of Manganese Dioxide‐Based Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Sun Yudong , Wang Yifei , Liu Yaqi , Wang Huimin , Yang Changying , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Fuan
Published: December 2022

Advancements in nanotechnology have promoted the rapid development of diverse nanosystems for biomedical applications. Manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanomaterials have attracted numerous attentions in the field of biosensing and cancer treatment due to their unique properties, such as simple fabrication procedures, broad optical absorption, and high oxidation and catalytic ability. Especially, the intelligent stimuli‐responsiveness of MnO2 nanomaterials to tumor microenvironment (TME) greatly improves their performance in tumor imaging and cancer therapy. In this review, the synthetic methods of different MnO2 nanostructures (nanoparticles, nanosheets, and nanoflowers) are first introduced, followed by the introduction of MnO2 nanomaterials for various biosensing applications based on their unique characteristics. Then, the recent achievements and progress of MnO2 nanomaterials for cancer treatment are comprehensively summarized with a focus on various therapeutic enhancements profiting from their disassembled ingredients under TME guidance. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives of this promising research are discussed in the fields of biomedicine.
Surface Curvature Dominated Guest‐Induced Nonequilibrium Deformations of Single Covalent Organic Framework‐300 Particles
Authors: Zhang Guihua , Zou Xinyi , Wang Qianxi , He Yi
Published: December 2022

Understanding the guest‐induced dynamic deformation process of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is vitally important to further increase their stimulus‐response performances. Here we report on the dark‐field microscopic (DFM) imaging approach to in situ monitor the guest‐induced deformation evolution of individual COF‐300 crystals in real time. We observe not only transient and nonequilibrium intermediate deformation states but also local surface curvature‐driven diverse adsorption behaviours of single COF‐300 particles for dichloromethane (DCM), undergoing one, two, and multiple expansion‐contraction deformations as well as contraction‐to‐expansion transition. The surface curvature‐dominated deformations are ascribed to the significant differences in the adsorption capacity for DCM at the curved tip and flat side regions, in which DCM can be adsorbed preferentially by curved tip regions of COF‐300.
Direct Visualization of Nanoconfinement Effect on Nanoreactor via Electrochemiluminescence Microscopy
Authors: Huang Xuedong , Li Binxiao , Lu Yanwei , Liu Yixin , Wang Shurong , Sojic Neso , Jiang Dechen , Liu Baohong
Published: December 2022

Nanoconfinement in mesoporous nanoarchitectures could dramatically change molecular transport and reaction kinetics during electrochemical process. A molecular‐level understanding of nanoconfinement and mass transport is critical for the applications, but a proper route to study it is lacking. Herein, we develop a single nanoreactor electrochemiluminescence (SNECL) microscopy based on Ru(bpy)32+‐loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticle to directly visualize in situ nanoconfinement‐enhanced electrochemical reactions at the single molecule level. Meanwhile, mass transport capability of single nanoreactor, reflected as long decay time and recovery ability, is monitored and simulated with a high spatial resolution. The nanoconfinement effects in our system also enable imaging single proteins on cellular membrane. Our SNECL approach may pave the way to decipher the nanoconfinement effects during electrochemical process, and build bridges between mesoporous nanoarchitectures and potential electrochemical applications.
A Photoenzymatic Strategy for Radical‐Mediated Stereoselective Hydroalkylation with Diazo Compounds
Authors: Duan Xinyu , Cui Dong , Wang Zhiguo , Zheng Dannan , Jiang Linye , Huang Wen‐Yu , Jia Yi‐Xia , Xu Jian
Published: December 2022

Carbene insertion reactions initiated with diazo compounds have been widely used to develop unnatural enzymatic reactions. However, alternative functionalization of diazo compounds in enzymatic processes has been unexploited. Herein, we describe a photoenzymatic strategy for radical‐mediated stereoselective hydroalkylation with diazo compounds. This method generates carbon‐centered radicals through an ene reductase catalyzed photoinduced electron transfer process from diazo compounds, enabling the synthesis of γ‐stereogenic carbonyl compounds in good yields and stereoselectivities. This study further expands the possible reaction patterns in photo‐biocatalysis and offers a new approach to solving the selectivity challenges of radical‐mediated reactions.
Preparation and characterization of polyvinyl chloride membranes and their fouling behavior in water purification
Authors: Eryildiz Bahriye , Keskin Basak , Pasaoglu Mehmet Emin , Turken Turker , Vatanpour Vahid , Koyuncu Ismail
Published: December 2022

In the present study, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membranes were used to improve water purification and fouling performance. Porous PVC flat sheet membranes were produced using the phase inversion method. The polymer concentration in casting solution varied from 11 to 17 wt%. Water contact angles, pore size, overall porosity and scanning electron microscopy were used for membrane characterization. The foulants such as bovine serum albumin (BSA) and humic acid (HA) were used to test the membranes' separation performance and fouling resistance. Contact angle increased from 79.6 ± 2.2° to 81.9 ± 1.0° as the polymer concentration increased, while overall porosity decreased from 72.0% to 61.9%. Results showed that BSA and HA permeate flux had similar trend by adding PVC. It was observed that BSA rejection enhanced from 54.8% to 80.7% while HA rejection increased from 76.3% to 88.3% with increasing PVC content. Permeate flux decreased by increase of PVC content due to reduction of porosity and pore size. Besides, the flux recovery ratio, reversible and irreversible fouling studies showed that better fouling observed with increasing of PVC content. The findings of this work show that PVC may be used to improve the separation and antifouling properties for water purification.
Predicting the future with humans and AI
Authors: Mellers Barbara A. , Lu Louise , McCoy John P.
Published: December 2022

We review the classic clinical versus statistical prediction debate as well as related modern work on humans versus. algorithms. Despite the successes of statistical prediction over clinical prediction, there is still widespread resistance to algorithms. We discuss recent attempts to understand that resistance. Current research focuses on when people use algorithmic predictions, how people perceive algorithms, and how algorithms can be made more appealing. We also examine attempts to boost human forecasting accuracy, either by spotting talent, cultivating talent via training, or developing algorithms that aggregate individual forecasts. We hypothesize that hybrid models with both human and algorithmic predictions may encounter less resistance than algorithms alone, especially when the algorithm is “humanized” (with anthropomorphic features) and the human is “algorithmized” (by reducing noise, decreasing bias and increasing signal).
Single‐cell microliter‐droplet screening system (MISS Cell): An integrated platform for automated high‐throughput microbial monoclonal cultivation and picking
Authors: Jian Xingjin , Guo Xiaojie , Cai Zhengshuo , Wei Longfeng , Wang Liyan , Xing Xin–hui , Zhang Chong
Published: December 2022

Solid plates have been used for microbial monoclonal isolation, cultivation, and colony picking since 1881. However, the process is labor‐ and resource‐intensive for high‐throughput requirements. Currently, several instruments have been integrated for automated and high‐throughput picking, but complicated and expensive. To address these issues, we report a novel integrated platform, the single‐cell microliter‐droplet screening system (MISS Cell), for automated, high‐throughput microbial monoclonal colony cultivation and picking. We verified the monoclonality of droplet cultures in the MISS Cell and characterized culture performance. Compared with solid plates, the MISS Cell generated a larger number of monoclonal colonies with higher initial growth rates using fewer resources. Finally, we established a workflow for automated high‐throughput screening of Corynebacterium glutamicum using the MISS Cell and identified high glutamate‐producing strains. The MISS Cell can serve as a universal platform to efficiently produce monoclonal colonies in high‐throughput applications, overcoming the limitations of solid plates to promote rapid development in biotechnology.
LncRNA SPRY4‐IT1 facilitates cell proliferation and angiogenesis of glioma via the miR‐101‐3p/EZH2/VEGFA signaling axis
Authors: Wang Ji , Chen Yanming , Wang Qing , Xu Hui , Jiang Qianqian , Wang Man , Li Shenggang , Chen Ying , Wu Chunwang , Yu Pei , Xiao Zongyu , Chen Wenjin , Lan Qing
Published: December 2022

Background

SPRY4‐IT1 (SPRY4 intronic transcript 1) is a long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) that has been identified as a novel oncogene in various cancers, including glioma. However, its function and underlying mechanism in glioma remain largely unclear. Here, we investigated the role of SPRY4‐IT1 in the development of glioma and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis and RT‐qPCR assay were used to examine the expression of SPRY4‐IT1 in glioma tissues. The CCK‐8, EdU, and Xenograft tumor assays wereperformed to assess the proliferation effect of glioma cells. The tube forming assay and Chick Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) assay were conducted to detect the angiogenesis effect of HUVECs. RNA‐sequencing, western blotting, RT‐qPCR, ELISA, and IHC assays were employed to verify the regulatory mechanism of the SPRY4‐IT1/ miR‐101‐3p/EZH2/VEGFA axis.

Results

Analysis of the TCGA dataset and data from our own cohort demonstrated that SPRY4‐IT1 was overexpressed in patients with glioma, and high SPRY4‐IT1 expression correlated with poor prognosis. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that SPRY4‐IT1 promoted the proliferation of glioma cells. RNA sequencing and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated significant enrichment of angiogenesis. HUVEC tube forming assay and CAM assay confirmed that SPRY4‐IT1 could induce angiogenesis of glioma cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, SPRY4‐IT1 upregulated EZH2 expression by sponging miR‐101‐3p to induce VEGFA expression in glioma cells. Moreover, SPRY4‐IT1 activated the VEGFR2/AKT/ERK1/2 pathway in HUVECs mediated by glioma cells. Rescue experiments further confirmed that SPRY4‐IT1 promoted glioma cell proliferation and angiogenesis via the miR‐101‐3p/EZH2/VEGFA signaling axis.

Conclusions

Our findings provide compelling evidence showing that SPRY4‐IT1 upregulated EZH2 to induce VEGFA by sponging miR‐101‐3p, thereby achieving cell proliferation and angiogenesis in glioma. Therefore, targeting SPRY4‐IT1/miR‐101‐3p/EZH2/VEGFA axis may improve the outcomes of patients with glioma.
Readmission with infective endocarditis within 90 days following transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Ogami Takuya , Kliner Dustin E. , Toma Catalin , Serna‐Gallegos Derek , Wang Yisi , Brown James A. , Yousef Sarah , Sultan Ibrahim
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) continues to be the most common modality of treating aortic stenosis in the United States. While infective endocarditis (IE) and its outcomes have been well documented after surgical aortic valve replacement, the incidence and outcomes of early IE after TAVI have not been well described.

Methods

All patients who underwent TAVI from 2012 through 2018 were identified using the National Readmission Database. Among them, patients who underwent TAVI at the index admission and readmitted within 90 days were included. Patients who died or had IE during the index admission were excluded. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients readmitted with IE (IE group) and those without (non‐IE group).

Results

A total of 168,283 patients were readmitted to a hospital within 90 days after TAVI. The median age of the IE group and non‐IE group were 81 and 82 years old, respectively (p = 0.21). Of those, 525 (0.3%) were readmitted with IE. The median time from TAVI to readmission was 20 days. During readmissions, 11.6% of the IE group died while only 3.15% of the non‐IE group experienced death (p < 0.001). The most common causative organism of IE was enterococcus (22.1%). Multivariable analysis revealed that congestive heart failure, cerebrovascular disease, dialysis, concomitant valve disease, Medicaid, and discharge to a facility were independently associated with readmission with IE within 90 days.

Conclusion

The incidence of readmission with IE is low after TAVI. However, the mortality was markedly high during readmissions. Surgical intervention was rarely performed for IE during the first admission. Enterococcus was the most common organism observed in IE after TAVI.

Disclosure

IS receives institutional research support from Abbott, Atricure, cryolife, and Medtronic. None related to this manuscript.

Clinical Trial Registration

Not applicable.
Spectroscopic Investigation of Carbon Dioxide Interactions with Transition Metal‐Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Alalwan Hayder A. , Alminshid Alaa , Mohammed Malik M. , Mohammed Mohammed Fakhir
Published: December 2022

The interactions of carbon dioxide (CO2) with metal oxides are a significant subject due to the numerous applications in which this reaction is involved. Although this reaction has been extensively studied by various infrared (IR) techniques, only a few (if any) have utilized in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS). DRIFTS has an essential advantage over other traditional IR techniques in that it involves minimal sample preparation before analysis. In this work, CO2 adsorption on CoO, CuO, and α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticle surfaces was investigated by using DRIFTS. While the majority of species on CoO and CuO surfaces were observed as carbonate, on α‐Fe2O3 bicarbonate was more prevalent.
Engineering Sandwiched Nanochannel Aptasensor for Efficiently Screening Cancer Cells
Authors: Lv Rui , Wang Xing , Mao Zhiqiang , Bai Yurong , Hao Junxing , Zhang Fan
Published: December 2022

Cancer cells are a class of important tumor biomarkers and are closely related to tumorous progression. It is urgent to develop a sensitive and highly efficient method for the rapid and accurate detection of cancer cells. Herein, an aptamer sandwiched nanochannel electrochemical sensor was established for the highly selective determination of cancer cells. By virtue of the porous nanochannels as the filter platform and immobilized with DNA aptamers for specifically capturing the cancer cells, the nanochannel‐based electrochemical sensor denotes excellent performance for MCF‐7 screening, and allowing a low limit of detection of 36 cells mL−1. The nanochannels‐based sandwich structure aptasensor not only presents an efficacious and reliable approach for cancer cell detection but also provides great advantage for preventing electrode passivation in the process of biomarkers analysis.
Excited‐State Dynamics in Borylated Arylisoquinoline Complexes in Solution and in cellulo
Authors: Yang Tingxiang , Valavalkar Abha , Romero‐Arenas Antonio , Dasgupta Anindita , Then Patrick , Chettri Avinash , Eggeling Christian , Ros Abel , Pischel Uwe , Dietzek‐Ivanšić Benjamin
Published: December 2022

Two four‐coordinate organoboron N,C‐chelate complexes with different functional terminals on the PEG chains are studied with respect to their photophysical properties within human MCF‐7 cells. Their excited‐state properties are characterized by time‐resolved pump‐probe spectroscopy and fluorescence lifetime microscopy. The excited‐state relaxation dynamics of the two complexes are similar when studied in DMSO. Aggregation of the complexes with the carboxylate terminal group is observed in water. When studying the light‐driven excited‐state dynamics of both complexes in cellulo, i. e., after being taken up into human MCF‐7 cells, both complexes show different features depending on the nature of the anchoring PEG chains. The lifetime of a characteristic intramolecular charge‐transfer state is significantly shorter when studied in cellulo (360±170 ps) as compared to in DMSO (∼960 ps) at 600 nm for the complexes with an amino group. However, the kinetics of the complexes with the carboxylate group are in line with those recorded in DMSO. On the other hand, the lifetimes of the fluorescent state are almost identical for both complexes in cellulo. These findings underline the importance to evaluate the excited‐state properties of fluorophores in a complex biological environment in order to fully account for intra‐ and intermolecular effects governing the light‐induced processes in functional dyes.
Enhanced Solvent and Thermal Stability in Cross‐Linkable Conjugated Statistical Copolymers for Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Zhu Shuyin , Peng Juan
Published: December 2022

The ability to enhance both the solvent and thermal stability of semiconducting π‐conjugated polymers is highly desired for various device‐related applications. Herein, a series of poly(3‐hexylthiophene)‐stat‐poly[3‐(6‐hydroxy)hexylthiophene] (P3HT‐stat‐P3HHT) statistical copolymers with thermally cross‐linkable hydroxyl groups is synthesized and their crystalline structures in three different states, solvent and thermal stability for use in organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) are elucidated. Importantly, these initial P3HT‐stat‐P3HHT thin films in their as‐cast state crystallize well in an edge‐on orientation. During annealing at 150 °C, these P3HT‐stat‐P3HHT occur cross‐linked and retain edge‐on orientation with increased crystallinity and ordering. In contrast, after high‐temperature annealing at 300 °C, their edge‐on orientation is significantly destroyed due to the cross‐linking of hydroxyl groups at melted state. The correlation between different P3HT‐stat‐P3HHT and their charge mobilities is scrutinized. These cross‐linked P3HT‐stat‐P3HHT exhibit good solvent resistance property and improved thermal stability in OFETs. Conceptually, such side‐chain functionalization approach to improve the stability of P3HT‐stat‐P3HHT can be conveniently extended to other conjugated polymers for diverse optoelectronic applications.
Intermolecular Covalent Interactions: Nature and Directionality
Authors: de Azevedo Santos Lucas , Ramalho Teodorico C. , Hamlin Trevor A. , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: December 2022

Quantum chemical methods were employed to analyze the nature and the origin of the directionality of pnictogen (PnB), chalcogen (ChB), and halogen bonds (XB) in archetypal FmZ⋅⋅⋅F− complexes (Z=Pn, Ch, X), using relativistic density functional theory (DFT) at ZORA‐M06/QZ4P. Quantitative Kohn‐Sham MO and energy decomposition analyses (EDA) show that all these intermolecular interactions have in common that covalence, that is, HOMO−LUMO interactions, provide a crucial contribution to the bond energy, besides electrostatic attraction. Strikingly, all these bonds are directional (i.e., F−Z⋅⋅⋅F− is approximately linear) despite, and not because of, the electrostatic interactions which, in fact, favor bending. This constitutes a breakdown of the σ‐hole model. It was shown how the σ‐hole model fails by neglecting both, the essential physics behind the electrostatic interaction and that behind the directionality of electron‐rich intermolecular interactions. Our findings are general and extend to the neutral, weaker ClI⋅⋅⋅NH3, HClTe⋅⋅⋅NH3, and H2ClSb⋅⋅⋅NH3 complexes.
Determining approximate solution of partial differential equations using radial basis function model trained with parallel symbiotic organisms search algorithm
Authors: Panda Arnapurna
Published: December 2022

Partial differential equations (PDEs) find extensive applications in geophysics (weather and climate modeling), astrophysics, and quantum mechanics. Solving PDEs by the conventional methods at times becomes difficult due to the complexity involved in these real‐world problems. Thus instead of an exact solution determining an approximate solution is also helpful for solving the problems. Here a model based on radial basis function (RBF) trained with parallel symbiotic organism search (PSOS) optimization is proposed to find out an approximate solution. The PSOS is a nature‐inspired optimization algorithm that ensures better accuracy due to the potential exploration of agents in the search space. Simultaneously, the computational complexity of this algorithm is low due to inbuilt parallelism. Simulation studies are reported for five real applications of PDEs: 2D modified Helmholtz equation, Poisson problem with Dirichlet boundary condition, elliptic PDE equation, and two convection‐diffusion equations. Comparison is carried out with the same RBF model parameters trained with parallel social spider optimization, original symbiotic organisms search algorithm, real coded genetic algorithm, and particle swarm optimization. The proposed model achieves minimum root mean square errors in most of the cases and achieves it with lower run time compared to the existing algorithms.
Tuning Magnetic and Photophysical Properties of Luminomagnetic Metal‐Organic Framework Composites in an Inverse Core‐Satellite Structure
Authors: Seuffert Marcel T. , Granath Tim , Kasper Thomas , Maile Ruben , Pujales‐Paradela Rosa , Prieschl Johannes , Wintzheimer Susanne , Mandel Karl , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus
Published: December 2022

Luminomagnetic composites have been synthesized that allow for an individual tuning of luminescence intensity, chromaticity and magnetization by combination of superparamagnetic, citrate‐stabilized iron oxide nanoparticles with the luminescent MOFs 3∞[Ln2(BDC)3(H2O)4] (Ln=Eu, Tb; BDC2−=terephthalate). The components are arranged to a concept of inverse structuring compared to previous luminomagnetic composites with MOF@magnetic particle (shell@core) composition so that the luminescent MOF now acts as core and is covered by magnetic nanoparticles forming the satellite shell. Thereby, the magnetic and photophysical properties are individually tuneable between high emission intensity (1.2 ⋅ 106 cps mg−1) plus low saturation magnetization (6 emu g−1) and the direct opposite (0.09 ⋅ 106 cps mg−1; 42 emu g−1) by adjusting the particle coverage of the MOF. This is not achievable with a core‐shell structure having a magnetic core and a dense MOF shell. The composition of the composites and the influence of different synthesis conditions on their properties were investigated by SEM/EDX, PXRD, magnetization measurements and photoluminescence spectroscopy.
Diversifying and perennializing plants in agroecosystems alters retention of newCandNfrom crop residues
Authors: McDaniel Marshall D. , Bird Jeffrey A. , Pett‐Ridge Jennifer , Marin‐Spiotta Erika , Schmidt Tom M. , Grandy A. Stuart
Published: December 2022

Managing soils to retain new plant inputs is key to moving toward a sustainable and regenerative agriculture. Management practices, like diversifying and perennializing agroecosystems, may affect the decomposer organisms that regulate how new residue is converted to persistent soil organic matter. Here we tested whether 12 years of diversifying/perennializing plants in agroecosystems through extended rotations or grassland restoration would decrease losses of new plant residue inputs and, thus, increase retention of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) in soil. We tracked dual‐labeled (13C and15N), isotopically enriched wheat (Triticum aestivum) residue in situ for 2 years as it decomposed in three agroecosystems: maize–soybean (CS) rotation, maize–soybean–wheat plus red clover and cereal rye cover crops (CSW2), and spring fallow management with regeneration of natural grassland species (seven to 10 species; SF). We measured losses of wheat residue (Cwheatand Nwheat) in leached soil solution and greenhouse gas fluxes, as well as how much was recovered in microbial biomass and bulk soil at 5‐cm increments down to 20 cm. CSW2 and SF both had unique, significant effects on residue decomposition and retention dynamics that were clear only when using nuanced metrics that able to tease apart subtle differences. For example, SF retained a greater portion of Cwheatin 0–5 cm surface soils (155%,p = 0.035) and narrowed the Cwheatto Nwheatratio (p < 0.030) compared to CS. CSW2 increased an index of carbon‐retention efficiency, Cwheatretained in the mesocosm divided by total measured, from 0.18 to 0.27 (49%,p = 0.001), compared to CS. Overall, we found that diversifying and extending the duration of living plants in agroecosystems can lead to greater retention of new residue inputs in subtle ways that require further investigation to fully understand.
Dispersal capacity underlies scale‐dependent changes in species richness patterns under human disturbance
Authors: Piano Elena , Bonte Dries , De Meester Luc , Hendrickx Frederik
Published: December 2022

Changes in the species richness of (meta‐)communities emerge from changes in the relative species abundance distribution (SAD), the total density of individuals, and the amount of spatial aggregation of individuals from the same species. Yet, how human disturbance affects these underlying diversity components at different spatial scales and how this interacts with important species traits, like dispersal capacity, remain poorly understood. Using data of carabid beetle communities along a highly replicated urbanization gradient, we reveal that species richness in urban sites was reduced due to a decline in individual density as well as changes in the SAD at both small and large spatial scales. Changes in these components of species richness were linked to differential responses of groups of species that differ in dispersal capacity. The individual density effect on species richness was due to a drastic 90% reduction of low‐dispersal individuals in more urban sites. Conversely, the decrease in species richness due to changes in the SAD at large (i.e., loss of species from the regional pool) and small (i.e., decreased evenness) spatial scales were driven by species with intermediate and high dispersal ability, respectively. These patterns coincide with the expected responses of these dispersal‐type assemblages toward human disturbance, namely, (i) loss of low‐dispersal species by local extinction processes, (ii) loss of higher‐dispersal species from the regional species pool due to decreased habitat diversity, and (iii) dominance of a few highly dispersive species resulting in a decreased evenness. Our results demonstrate that dispersal capacity plays an essential role in determining scale‐dependent changes in species richness patterns. Incorporating this information improves our mechanistic insight into how environmental change affects species diversity at different spatial scales, allowing us to better forecast how human disturbance will drive local and regional changes in biodiversity patterns.