bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Elder Abuse and Emotional Consequences Scale (EACS)
Authors: Neise Michael , Brijoux Thomas , Zank Susanne
Published: August 2022

Abstract: Little data exist on elder abuse (EA) among the very old (>80 years), and instruments have not been developed to identify EA within this group. This study presents a survey instrument: the Elder Abuse and Emotional Consequences Scale (EACS). We conducted interviews in a representative sample of the oldest old and did confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) based on n = 988 persons to confirm the assumed factor structure of the EACS. The results confirm a six-dimensional structure and good model fit of the questionnaire. A preliminary examination confirms the reliability and validity of the dimensions. The EACS is thus a multidimensional assessment of EA that can be used in interviews with the very old.
Horizontal Wavenumber Spectra of Vertical Vorticity and Horizontal Divergence of Mesoscale Dynamics in the Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere Using Multistatic Specular Meteor Radar Observations
Authors: Poblet Facundo L. , Chau Jorge L. , Conte J. Federico , Avsarkisov Victor , Vierinen Juha , Charuvil Asokan Harikrishnan
Published: August 2022

Specular meteor radars (SMRs) have significantly contributed to the understanding of wind dynamics in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT). We present a method to estimate horizontal correlations of vertical vorticity (Qzz) and horizontal divergence (P) in the MLT, using line‐of‐sight multistatic SMRs velocities, that consists of three steps. First, we estimate 2D, zonal, and meridional correlation functions of wind fluctuations (with periods less than 4 hr and vertical wavelengths smaller than 4 km) using the wind field correlation function inversion (WCFI) technique. Then, the WCFI's statistical estimates are converted into longitudinal and transverse components. The conversion relation is obtained by considering the rotation about the vertical direction of two velocity vectors, from an east‐north‐up system to a meteor‐pair‐dependent cylindrical system. Finally, following a procedure previously applied in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere to airborne wind measurements, the longitudinal and transverse spatial correlations are fitted, from which Qzz, P, and their spectra are directly estimated. The method is applied to a special Spread spectrum Interferometric Multistatic meteor radar Observing Network data set, obtained over northern Germany for seven days in November 2018. The results show that in a quasi‐axisymmetric scenario, P was more than five times larger than Qzz for the horizontal wavelengths range given by ∼50–400 km, indicating a predominance of internal gravity waves over vortical modes of motion as a possible explanation for the MLT mesoscale dynamics during this campaign.
On the Uncertainty Induced by Pedotransfer Functions in Terrestrial Biosphere Modeling
Authors: Paschalis Athanasios , Bonetti Sara , Guo Yanran , Fatichi Simone
Published: August 2022

Hydrological, ecohydrological, and terrestrial biosphere models depend on pedotransfer functions for computing soil hydraulic parameters based on easily measurable variables, such as soil textural and physical properties. Several pedotransfer functions have been derived in the last few decades, providing divergent estimates of soil hydraulic parameters. In this study, we quantify how uncertainties embedded in using different pedotransfer functions propagate to ecosystem dynamics, including simulated hydrological fluxes and vegetation response to water availability. Using a state‐of‐the‐art ecohydrological model applied at 79 sites worldwide, we show that uncertainties related to pedotransfer functions can affect both hydrological and vegetation dynamics. Uncertainties in evapotranspiration, plant productivity, and vegetation structure, quantified as leaf area, are in the order of ∼10% at annual time scales. Runoff and groundwater recharge uncertainties are one order of magnitude larger. All uncertainties are largely amplified when small‐scale topography is taken into account in a distributed domain, especially for water‐limited ecosystems with low permeability soils. Overall, pedotransfer function related uncertainties for a given soil type are higher than uncertainties across soil types in both hydrological and ecosystem dynamics. The magnitude of uncertainties is climate‐dependent but not soil type‐dependent. Evapotranspiration, vegetation structure, and plant productivity uncertainties are higher in water‐limited semiarid climates, whereas groundwater recharge uncertainties are higher in climates where potential evapotranspiration is comparable to precipitation.
The Lateral Continuity and Vertical Arrangement of Dust Layers in the Martian North Polar Cap From SHARAD Multiband Data
Authors: Jawin Erica R. , Campbell Bruce A. , Whitten Jennifer L. , Morgan Gareth A.
Published: August 2022

Interpretation of radar sounder reflections to infer the structure and composition of the martian polar caps depends on whether bright returns correspond to single packed dust layers or a more finely layered structure. Reflections from multiple layers can create strong resonant scattering (interference) effects that impact analyses of radargram reflectors and inference of dielectric contrast. We identify resonant behavior for an areally extensive reflector in the north polar layered deposits from Shallow Radar data processed in two frequency bands. Echo strength varies by ∼2 dB between subband reflections across a region ∼400 km in extent, with the stronger echo shifting abruptly from the high‐ to low‐frequency band outside the central region of Gemina Lingula. This behavior can arise from resonant scattering between two layers of dust (0.3–0.6 m thick) separated by 0.5–3 m of ice. Such layering requires there be little postdepositional aeolian activity to preserve layer thickness and spacing.
Afterslip From the 2020 M 6.5 Monte Cristo Range, Nevada Earthquake
Authors: Sadeghi Chorsi Taha , Braunmiller Jochen , Deng Fanghui , Dixon Timothy H.
Published: August 2022

We investigate postseismic deformation following the 15 May 2020, Mw 6.5 Monte Cristo Range, Nevada earthquake using geodetic and aftershock data. Seven months of Sentinel 1‐A/B SAR images were used to model deformation as afterslip on two subparallel fault planes outlined by aftershocks. Postseismic deformation fits exponential and logarithmic decay models equally well. For exponential decay, the average decay time is ∼38 days. On the western plane, where most coseismic slip was observed, afterslip was minor, occurred at shallower depths than coseismic slip, and is anticorrelated with aftershock distribution. On the eastern plane, afterslip is significant, exceeds coseismic moment release, occurred at and below coseismic slip, and is correlated with aftershock distribution. On both segments, geodetic moment exceeds seismic moment, suggesting most afterslip occurred aseismically. Aseismic creep does not make up for observed coseismic shallow slip deficit, perhaps related to fault immaturity.
How Well do Global Snow Products Characterize Snow Storage in High Mountain Asia?
Authors: Liu Yufei , Fang Yiwen , Li Dongyue , Margulis Steven A.
Published: August 2022

Accurate characterization of peak snow water storage in High Mountain Asia (HMA) is essential for assessing the water supply to over 1 billion downstream residents. Currently, such characterization still relies on modeling due to measurement scarcity. Here, eight global snow products were examined over HMA using a newly developed High Mountain Asia Snow Reanalysis (HMASR) data set as a reference. The focus of intercomparison was on peak annual snow storage, the first‐order determinant of warm‐season water availability in snow‐dominated basins. Across eight products the climatological peak storage over HMA was found to be 161 ± 102 km3 with an average 33% underestimation relative to HMASR. The inter‐product variability in cumulative snowfall (335 ± 148 km3) explains the majority (>80%) of peak snow storage uncertainty, while significant accumulation‐season snowfall loss to ablation (51% ± 9%) also reveals the critical role of ablation processes on peak snow storage.
Can Lava Flow Like Water? Assessing Applications of Critical Flow Theory to Channelized Basaltic Lava Flows
Authors: Dietterich H. R. , Grant G. E. , Fasth B. , Major J. J. , Cashman K. V.
Published: August 2022

Flowing lava and water have dramatically different physical properties but can form similar hydraulic structures, including undular hydraulic jumps, or standing wave trains. In water flows, undular hydraulic jumps are evidence of critical flow (Froude number ∼1) and open‐channel hydraulic theory provides a powerful tool for estimating flow depth and velocity. Monitoring these parameters in an active lava channel is inherently challenging, but essential for calculating lava discharge (effusion rate), a primary control on the rate of flow front advance and ultimate flow runout distance. We analyze undular hydraulic jumps in both water and lava flows to assess the conditions under which they form and, by extension, the potential use of critical flow theory to estimate, in real time, lava flow velocity, depth, and discharge. Experimental data for water flows show that these structures mark the transition from supercritical to subcritical flow. Undular hydraulic jumps in the near‐vent lava channel of the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption of Kīlauea, Hawaiʻi also reflect critical flow conditions; their wavelengths scale with flow depth and velocity, consistent with hydraulic theory. Calculated lava effusion rates are similar to estimates made using more traditional approaches (Jeffreys', 1925, https://doi.org/10.1080/14786442508634662, equation based on lava viscosity, density, and channel slope) and with lava volumes derived from topographic‐change mapping. From this we conclude that critical flow phenomena show great potential to track flow dynamics and inform hazard assessment for a wide range of geophysical fluids.
Chromatin conformation of human oral epithelium can identify orofacial cleft missing functional variants
Authors: Xiao Yao , Jiao Shengbo , He Miao , Lin Da , Zuo Huanyan , Han Jiahao , Sun Yonghua , Cao Gang , Chen Zhi , Liu Huan
Published: August 2022

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) are the most widely used method to identify genetic risk loci associated with orofacial clefts (OFC). However, despite the increasing size of cohort, GWASs are still insufficient to detect all the heritability, suggesting there are more associations under the current stringent statistical threshold. In this study, we obtained an integrated epigenomic dataset based on the chromatin conformation of a human oral epithelial cell line (HIOEC) using RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, H3K27ac ChIP-seq, and DLO Hi-C. Presumably, this epigenomic dataset could reveal the missing functional variants located in the oral epithelial cell active enhancers/promoters along with their risk target genes, despite relatively less-stringent statistical association with OFC. Taken a non-syndromic cleft palate only (NSCPO) GWAS data of the Chinese Han population as an example, 3664 SNPs that cannot reach the strict significance threshold were subjected to this functional identification pipeline. In total, 254 potential risk SNPs residing in active cis-regulatory elements interacting with 1 718 promoters of oral epithelium-expressed genes were screened. Gapped k-mer machine learning based on enhancers interacting with epithelium-expressed genes along with in vivo and in vitro reporter assays were employed as functional validation. Among all the potential SNPs, we chose and confirmed that the risk alleles of rs560789 and rs174570 reduced the epithelial-specific enhancer activity by preventing the binding of transcription factors related to epithelial development. In summary, we established chromatin conformation datasets of human oral epithelial cells and provided a framework for testing and understanding how regulatory variants impart risk for clefts.
Hepatic ARID3A facilitates liver cancer malignancy by cooperating with CEP131 to regulate an embryonic stem cell-like gene signature
Authors: Shen Mengting , Li Shengli , Zhao Yiming , Liu Yizhe , Liu Zhen , Huan Lin , Qiao Yejun , Wang Lu , Han Leng , Chen Zhiao , He Xianghuo
Published: August 2022

Liver cancer stemness refers to the stem cell-like phenotype of hepatocarcinoma cells and is closely related to a high degree of tumour malignancy. Here, we identified AT-rich interacting domain 3A (ARID3A) as one of the most upregulated stemness-related transcription factors in liver cancer by an in vitro functional screen. ARID3A can promote liver cancer cell viability and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, ARID3A interacts with CEP131 and transcriptionally activates KDM3A by co-occupying its promoter element, further upregulating the expression of downstream embryonic stem (ES) signature genes via demethylation of H3K9me2. ARID3A and CEP131 promote an ES cell gene signature through activation of KDM3A and contribute to the poor prognosis of liver cancer patients. Collectively, these results provide evidence highlighting a transcription-dependent mechanism of ARID3A in stemness regulation in liver cancer. The ARID3A/CEP131-KDM3A regulatory circuit could serve as a prognostic indicator and potential therapeutic target for liver cancer.
Social inequalities in climate change-attributed impacts of Hurricane Harvey
Authors: Smiley Kevin T. , Noy Ilan , Wehner Michael F. , Frame Dave , Sampson Christopher C. , Wing Oliver E. J.
Published: August 2022

Climate change is already increasing the severity of extreme weather events such as with rainfall during hurricanes. But little research to date investigates if, and to what extent, there are social inequalities in climate change-attributed extreme weather event impacts. Here, we use climate change attribution science paired with hydrological flood models to estimate climate change-attributed flood depths and damages during Hurricane Harvey in Harris County, Texas. Using detailed land-parcel and census tract socio-economic data, we then describe the socio-spatial characteristics associated with these climate change-induced impacts. We show that 30 to 50% of the flooded properties would not have flooded without climate change. Climate change-attributed impacts were particularly felt in Latina/x/o neighborhoods, and especially so in Latina/x/o neighborhoods that were low-income and among those located outside of FEMA’s 100-year floodplain. Our focus is thus on climate justice challenges that not only concern future climate change-induced risks, but are already affecting vulnerable populations disproportionately now.
Ultrafast pseudospin quantum beats in multilayer WSe2 and MoSe2
Authors: Raiber Simon , Faria Junior Paulo E. , Falter Dennis , Feldl Simon , Marzena Petter , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Fabian Jaroslav , Schüller Christian
Published: August 2022

Layered van-der-Waals materials with hexagonal symmetry offer an extra degree of freedom to their electrons, the so-called valley index or valley pseudospin, which behaves conceptually like the electron spin. Here, we present investigations of excitonic transitions in mono- and multilayer WSe2 and MoSe2 materials by time-resolved Faraday ellipticity (TRFE) with in-plane magnetic fields, B∥, of up to 9 T. In monolayer samples, the measured TRFE time traces are almost independent of B∥, which confirms a close to zero in-plane exciton g factor g∥, consistent with first-principles calculations. In contrast, we observe pronounced temporal oscillations in multilayer samples for B∥ > 0. Our first-principles calculations confirm the presence of a non-zero g∥ for the multilayer samples. We propose that the oscillatory TRFE signal in the multilayer samples is caused by pseudospin quantum beats of excitons, which is a manifestation of spin- and pseudospin layer locking in the multilayer samples.
A polymer electrolyte design enables ultralow-work-function electrode for high-performance optoelectronics
Authors: Tong Bo , Du Jinhong , Yin Lichang , Zhang Dingdong , Zhang Weimin , Liu Yu , Wei Yuning , Liu Chi , Liang Yan , Sun Dong-Ming , Ma Lai-Peng , Cheng Hui-Ming , Ren Wencai
Published: August 2022

Ambient solution-processed conductive materials with a sufficient low work function are essential to facilitate electron injection in electronic and optoelectronic devices but are challenging. Here, we design an electrically conducting and ambient-stable polymer electrolyte with an ultralow work function down to 2.2 eV, which arises from heavy n-doping of dissolved salts to polymer matrix. Such materials can be solution processed into uniform and smooth films on various conductors including graphene, conductive metal oxides, conducting polymers and metals to substantially improve their electron injection, enabling high-performance blue light-emitting diodes and transparent light-emitting diodes. This work provides a universal strategy to design a wide range of stable charge injection materials with tunable work function. As an example, we also synthesize a high-work-function polymer electrolyte material for high-performance solar cells.
Control cell migration by engineering integrin ligand assembly
Authors: Hu Xunwu , Roy Sona Rani , Jin Chengzhi , Li Guanying , Zhang Qizheng , Asano Natsuko , Asahina Shunsuke , Kajiwara Tomoko , Takahara Atsushi , Feng Bolu , Aoki Kazuhiro , Xu Chenjie , Zhang Ye
Published: August 2022

Advances in mechanistic understanding of integrin-mediated adhesion highlight the importance of precise control of ligand presentation in directing cell migration. Top-down nanopatterning limited the spatial presentation to sub-micron placing restrictions on both fundamental study and biomedical applications. To break the constraint, here we propose a bottom-up nanofabrication strategy to enhance the spatial resolution to the molecular level using simple formulation that is applicable as treatment agent. Via self-assembly and co-assembly, precise control of ligand presentation is succeeded by varying the proportions of assembling ligand and nonfunctional peptide. Assembled nanofilaments fulfill multi-functions exerting enhancement to suppression effect on cell migration with tunable amplitudes. Self-assembled nanofilaments possessing by far the highest ligand density prevent integrin/actin disassembly at cell rear, which expands the perspective of ligand-density-dependent-modulation, revealing valuable inputs to therapeutic innovations in tumor metastasis.
Advanced wastewater treatment and membrane fouling control by electro-encapsulated self-forming dynamic membrane bioreactor
Authors: Millanar-Marfa Jessa Marie J. , Corpuz Mary Vermi Aizza , Borea Laura , Cabreros Carlo , G. De Luna Mark Daniel , Ballesteros Florencio , Vigliotta Giovanni , Zarra Tiziano , Hasan Shadi W. , Korshin Gregory V. , Buonerba Antonio , Belgiorno Vincenzo , Naddeo Vincenzo
Published: August 2022

An advanced concept of aerobic membrane bioreactors (MBRs) for highly efficient wastewater treatment has been disclosed by introduction of an electro and encapsulated self-forming dynamic biomembrane (e-ESFDM). The biological filtering membrane is intercalated between two woven polyester fabrics as supports that assist the formation and protect the biomembrane. The innovative architecture of the e-ESFDM in combination with electrocoagulation processes resulted in efficient and cost-effective wastewater treatment and control of the membrane fouling. The performance of the e-ESFDMBR was compared to a yet highly efficient ESFDMBR, where the electric field was not present. The ESFDM-based reactors both showed comparable results in the removal of organic matter, in terms of COD and DOC. On the other hand, e-ESFDMBR exceeded the performance of the ESFDMBR in the reduction of nitrogen- and phosphorous-containing pollutants, responsible for eutrophication processes in the environment, and recalcitrant molecules, such as humic-like substances. In addition, an extremely low fouling rate was observed for the e-ESFDM bioreactor. Insights on the biological processes involved in the developed MBR were provided by investigations on the microbiological diversity found in reactor mixed liquor, ESFDM layer and treated wastewater.
Giant voltage amplification from electrostatically induced incipient ferroelectric states
Authors: Graf Mónica , Aramberri Hugo , Zubko Pavlo , Íñiguez Jorge
Published: August 2022

Ferroelectrics subject to suitable electric boundary conditions present a steady negative capacitance response1,2. When the ferroelectric is in a heterostructure, this behaviour yields a voltage amplification in the other elements, which experience a potential difference larger than the one applied, holding promise for low-power electronics3. So far research has focused on verifying this effect and little is known about how to optimize it. Here, we describe an electrostatic theory of ferroelectric/dielectric superlattices, convenient model systems4,5, and show the relationship between the negative permittivity of the ferroelectric layers and the voltage amplification in the dielectric ones. Then, we run simulations of PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices to reveal the factors most strongly affecting the amplification. In particular, we find that giant effects (up to tenfold increases) can be obtained when PbTiO3 is brought close to the so-called ‘incipient ferroelectric’ state.
The NIMH intramural healthy volunteer dataset: A comprehensive MEG, MRI, and behavioral resource
Authors: Nugent Allison C. , Thomas Adam G. , Mahoney Margaret , Gibbons Alison , Smith Jarrod T. , Charles Antoinette J. , Shaw Jacob S. , Stout Jeffrey D. , Namyst Anna M. , Basavaraj Arshitha , Earl Eric , Riddle Travis , Snow Joseph , Japee Shruti , Pavletic Adriana J. , Sinclair Stephen , Roopchansingh Vinai , Bandettini Peter A. , Chung Joyce
Published: August 2022

The NIMH Healthy Research Volunteer Dataset is a collection of phenotypic data characterizing healthy research volunteers using clinical assessments such as assays of blood and urine, mental health assessments, diagnostic and dimensional measures of mental health, cognitive and neuropsychological functioning, structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and a comprehensive magnetoencephalography battery (MEG). In addition, blood samples of healthy volunteers are banked for future analyses. All data collected in this protocol are broadly shared in the OpenNeuro repository, in the Brain Imaging Data Structure (BIDS) format. In addition, task paradigms and basic pre-processing scripts are shared on GitHub. There are currently few open access MEG datasets, and multimodal neuroimaging datasets are even more rare. Due to its depth of characterization of a healthy population in terms of brain health, this dataset may contribute to a wide array of secondary investigations of non-clinical and clinical research questions.
Understanding the genetics of viral drug resistance by integrating clinical data and mining of the scientific literature
Authors: Goto An , Rodriguez-Esteban Raul , Scharf Sebastian H. , Morris Garrett M.
Published: August 2022

Drug resistance caused by mutations is a public health threat for existing and emerging viral diseases. A wealth of evidence about these mutations and their clinically associated phenotypes is scattered across the literature, but a comprehensive perspective is usually lacking. This work aimed to produce a clinically relevant view for the case of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) mutations by combining a chronic HBV clinical study with a compendium of genetic mutations systematically gathered from the scientific literature. We enriched clinical mutation data by systematically mining 2,472,725 scientific articles from PubMed Central in order to gather information about the HBV mutational landscape. By performing this analysis, we were able to identify mutational hotspots for each HBV genotype (A-E) and gene (C, X, P, S), as well as the location of disulfide bonds associated with these mutations. Through a modelling study, we also identified a mutation position common in both the clinical data and the literature that is located at the binding pocket for a known anti-HBV drug, namely entecavir. The results of this novel approach show the potential of integrated analyses to assist in the development of new drugs for viral diseases that are more robust to resistance. Such analyses should be of particular interest due to the increasing importance of viral resistance in established and emerging viruses, such as for newly developed drugs against SARS-CoV-2.
Atypical behavioral and thermoregulatory circadian rhythms in mice lacking a microbiome
Authors: Leone Vanessa A. , Onishi Kenneth G. , Kennedy Megan , Riggle Jonathan P. , Pierre Joseph F. , Maneval Andrew C. , Spedale Melanie N. , Theriault Betty R. , Chang Eugene B. , Prendergast Brian J.
Published: August 2022

Trillions of microbial oscillators reside throughout the mammalian body, yet their contributions toward fundamental features of host circadian rhythms (CRs) have not been characterized. Here, we demonstrate that the microbiome contributes to host CRs in activity and thermoregulation. Mice devoid of microbes (germ-free, GF) exhibited higher-amplitude CRs in a light–dark cycle and longer circadian periods in constant darkness. Circadian entrainment to food was greater in GF mice, but resetting responses to simulated jet-lag were unaffected. Microbial transplantation with cecal contents of conventionally-raised mice normalized CRs of GF mice, indicating that the concurrent activity of gut microbes modulates host circadian networks. Obesogenic effects of high-fat diet were absent in GF mice, but some circadian-disruptive effects persisted. Transkingdom (host-microbe) interactions affect circadian period and entrainment of CRs in diverse traits, and microbes alter interactions among light- and food-entrainable circadian processes in the face of environmental (light, diet) perturbations.
New data from the first discovered paleoparadoxiid (Desmostylia) specimen shed light into the morphological variation of the genus Neoparadoxia
Authors: Matsui Kumiko , Valenzuela-Toro Ana M. , Pyenson Nicholas D.
Published: August 2022

Desmostylia is an extinct clade of marine mammals with two major sub-clades, Desmostylidae and Paleoparadoxiidae, known from Oligocene to Miocene strata of the North Pacific coastline. Within Paleoparadoxiidae, three genera have been identified: Archaeoparadoxia, Paleoparadoxia, and Neoparadoxia. The latter taxon is the geochronologically youngest palaeoparadoxiid and Neoparadoxia is characterized by a comparatively larger body size, although it is known only from a few specimens within a short temporal and geographic range. Here we report the discovery of an isolated tooth, which we identify as Neoparadoxia cf. N. cecilialina, constituting only the second individual specimen of Neoparadoxia with preserved dentition yet reported. This specimen was collected near Corona, California, USA, and we attribute it to the “Topanga” Formation, extending the geographic range of this taxon in Southern California. While the exact geographic locality was not recorded when it was collected in 1913, we establish two potential localities based on associated hand-written museum label and new stratigraphic information. Although initially identified as Desmostylus hesperus, this specimen of Neoparadoxia was collected 10 years before the first named paleoparadoxiid from Japan. We expect that description of more complete desmostylian material from elsewhere in Southern California will clarify the taxonomic richness and paleoecological role of this clade in Cenozoic marine mammal assemblages.
Metformin administration is associated with enhanced response to transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Jung Woo Jin , Jang Sangmi , Choi Won Joon , Park Jaewon , Choi Gwang Hyeon , Jang Eun Sun , Jeong Sook-Hyang , Choi Won Seok , Lee Jae Hwan , Yoon Chang Jin , Kim Jin-Wook
Published: August 2022

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is often used as a locoregional therapy for early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) when local ablation or resection are not feasible, but incomplete response and recurrence are commonly observed. In this study, we sought to determine the association between metformin administration and TACE outcomes for single nodular HCC in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The retrospective cohort analysis included 164 T2DM patients with single nodular HCC who underwent TACE as an initial treatment, and 91 were exposed to metformin before and after TACE. Propensity score (PS) matching was used to balance covariates. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of tumor response after TACE, and Cox regression analysis assessed independent predictors of local tumor recurrence (LTR) in patients with complete response after TACE. Metformin use was associated with significantly higher objective response rate (ORR) in the overall and PS-matched cohort (79.1% vs. 60.3 and 78.7% vs. 57.5%; p = 0.008 and p = 0.029, respectively). Logistic regression analysis showed that metformin use was an independent predictor of ORR in all and PS-matched patients (odds ratio = 2.65 and 3.06; p = 0.016 and 0.034, respectively). Cox regression analysis showed metformin administration was an independent predictor for lower LTR in all and PS-matched patients (hazard ratio = 0.28 and 0.27; p = 0.001 and 0.007, respectively). Metformin administration is associated with better initial response and lower local recurrence after TACE for single nodular HCC in T2DM.
Structural bioinformatics analysis of SARS-CoV-2 variants reveals higher hACE2 receptor binding affinity for Omicron B.1.1.529 spike RBD compared to wild type reference
Authors: Durmaz Vedat , Köchl Katharina , Krassnigg Andreas , Parigger Lena , Hetmann Michael , Singh Amit , Nutz Daniel , Korsunsky Alexander , Kahler Ursula , König Centina , Chang Lee , Krebs Marius , Bassetto Riccardo , Pavkov-Keller Tea , Resch Verena , Gruber Karl , Steinkellner Georg , Gruber Christian C.
Published: August 2022

To date, more than 263 million people have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic. In many countries, the global spread occurred in multiple pandemic waves characterized by the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants. Here we report a sequence and structural-bioinformatics analysis to estimate the effects of amino acid substitutions on the affinity of the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain (RBD) to the human receptor hACE2. This is done through qualitative electrostatics and hydrophobicity analysis as well as molecular dynamics simulations used to develop a high-precision empirical scoring function (ESF) closely related to the linear interaction energy method and calibrated on a large set of experimental binding energies. For the latest variant of concern (VOC), B.1.1.529 Omicron, our Halo difference point cloud studies reveal the largest impact on the RBD binding interface compared to all other VOC. Moreover, according to our ESF model, Omicron achieves a much higher ACE2 binding affinity than the wild type and, in particular, the highest among all VOCs except Alpha and thus requires special attention and monitoring.
Heterogeneous responses in Google Trends measures of well-being to the COVID-19 dynamic quarantines in Chile
Authors: Díaz Fernando , Henríquez Pablo A. , Winkelried Diego
Published: August 2022

We study how the Chilean population’s well-being responded to the strategy implemented by their health authorities, known as Dynamic Quarantine, to contain the spread of coronavirus in which municipalities periodically entered and exited lockdowns. This unique scheme, together with the population’s socioeconomic heterogeneity, facilitates the estimation of changes in this well-being as differentiated by socioeconomic status. Using Google Trends to compute measures of well-being, we find strong evidence that socioeconomic status induces heterogeneity in these changes; thus, neglecting this heterogeneity may lead to misleading prescriptions for the public policy that addresses the psychological effects of lockdowns.
Experimental methods modestly impact interpretation of the effect of environmental exposures on the larval zebrafish gut microbiome
Authors: Stagaman Keaton , Kasschau Kristin D. , Tanguay Robyn L. , Sharpton Thomas J.
Published: August 2022

Rapidly growing fields, such as microbiome science, often lack standardization of procedures across research groups. This is especially the case for microbiome investigations in the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model system, which is quickly becoming a workhorse system for understanding the exposure-microbiome-physiology axis. To guide future investigations using this model system, we defined how various experimental decisions affect the outcomes of studies on the effects of exogenous exposure on the zebrafish gut microbiome. Using a model toxicant, benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), we assessed how each of two dissection methods (gut dissection vs. whole fish), three DNA extraction kits (Qiagen Blood & Tissue, Macherey–Nagel NucleoSpin, and Qiagen PowerSoil), and inclusion of PCR replicates (single vs. pooled triplicate reactions) affected our interpretation of how exposure influences the diversity and composition of the gut microbiome, as well as our ability to identify microbiome biomarkers of exposure. We found that inclusion of PCR replicates had the smallest effect on our final interpretations, and the effects of dissection method and DNA extraction kit had significant effects in specific contexts, primarily in the cases of identifying microbial biomarkers.
Hydrogen peroxide initiates oxidative stress and proteomic alterations in meningothelial cells
Authors: Xin Xiaorong , Gong Tianxiang , Hong Ying
Published: August 2022

Meningothelial cells (MECs) are fundamental cells of the sheaths covering the brain and optic nerve, where they build a brain/optic nerve-cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) barrier that prevents the free flow of CSF from the subarachnoid space, but their exact roles and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Our attempt here was to investigate the influence elicited by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on functional changes of MECs. Our study showed that cell viability of MECs was inhibited after cells were exposed to oxidative agents. Cells subjected to H2O2 at the concentration of 150 µM for 24 h and 48 h exhibited an elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity, decrease of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) compared with control cells. 95 protein spots with more than twofold difference were detected in two dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) gels through proteomics assay following H2O2 exposure for 48 h, 10 proteins were identified through TOF/MS analysis. Among the proteomic changes explored, 8 proteins related to energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, structural regulation, and cell cycle control were downregulated. Our study provides key insights that enhance our understanding of the role of MECs in the pathology of brain and optic nerve disorders.
A blockchain based lightweight peer-to-peer energy trading framework for secured high throughput micro-transactions
Authors: Pradhan Nihar Ranjan , Singh Akhilendra Pratap , Verma Sahil , Kavita  , Wozniak Marcin , Shafi Jana , Ijaz Muhammad Fazal
Published: August 2022

With the electric power grid experiencing a rapid shift to the smart grid paradigm over a deregulated energy market, Internet of Things (IoT) based solutions are gaining prominence and innovative Peer To Peer (P2P) energy trading at micro-level are being deployed. Such advancement, however leave traditional security models vulnerable and pave the path for Blockchain, an Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) with its decentralized, open and transparency characteristics as a viable alternative. However, due to deregulation in energy trading markets, massive volumes of micro transactions are required to be supported, which become a performance bottleneck with existing Blockchain solution such as Hyperledger, Ethereum and so on. In this paper, a lightweight ’Tangle’ based framework, namely IOTA (Third generation DLT) is employed for designing an energy trading market that uses Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) based solution that not only alleviates the reward overhead for micro-transactions but also provides scalability, quantum-proof, and high throughput of such transactions at low confirmation latency. Furthermore the Masked Authentication Messaging (MAM) protocol is used over the IOTA P2P energy trading framework that allows energy producer and consumer to share the data while maintaining the confidentiality, and facilitates the data accessibility. The Raspberry Pi 3 board along with voltage sensor (INA219) used for the setting up light node and publishing and fetching data from the Tangle. The results of the obtained benchmarking indicate low confirmation latency, high throughput, system with Hyperledger Fabric and Ethereum. Moreover, the effect of transaction rate decreases when the IOTA bundle size increases more than 10. For bundle size 5 and 10 it behaves absolutely better than any other platform. The speedy confirmation time of transactions in IOTA, is most suitable for peer to peer energy trading scenarios. This study serves as a guideline for deploying, end-to-end transaction with IOTA Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) and improving the performance of Blockchain in the energy sector under various operating conditions.
A systematic exploration reveals the potential of spermidine for hypopigmentation treatment through the stabilization of melanogenesis-associated proteins
Authors: Brito Sofia , Heo Hyojin , Cha Byungsun , Lee Su-Hyun , Chae Sehyun , Lee Mi-Gi , Kwak Byeong-Mun , Bin Bum-Ho
Published: August 2022

Spermidine (SPD), a polyamine naturally present in living organisms, is known to prolong the lifespan of animals. In this study, the role of SPD in melanogenesis was investigated, showing potential as a pigmenting agent. SPD treatment increased melanin production in melanocytes in a dose dependent manner. Computational analysis with RNA-sequencing data revealed the alteration of protein degradation by SPD treatment without changes in the expressions of melanogenesis-related genes. Indeed, SPD treatment significantly increased the stabilities of tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1 and -2 while inhibiting ubiquitination, which was confirmed by treatment of proteasome inhibitor MG132. Inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide (CHX) showed that SPD treatment increased the resistance of TRP-1 and TRP-2 to protein degradation. To identify the proteins involved in SPD transportation in melanocytes, the expression of several solute carrier (SLC) membrane transporters was assessed and, among 27 transporter genes, SLC3A2, SLC7A1, SLC18B1, and SLC22A18 were highly expressed, implying they are putative SPD transporters in melanocytes. Furthermore, SLC7A1 and SLC22A18 were downregulated by SPD treatment, indicating their active involvement in polyamine homeostasis. Finally, we applied SPD to a human skin equivalent and observed elevated melanin production. Our results identify SPD as a potential natural product to alleviate hypopigmentation.
The antimicrobial effects of PLGA microspheres containing the antimicrobial peptide OP-145 on clinically isolated pathogens in bone infections
Authors: Cheng Ye , Qin Jianhua , Huang Yuliang , Wang Tianyu
Published: August 2022

Infection after fracture is a significant problem for the healing of fractures. Antimicrobial peptides combined with PLGA (poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres can open new horizons for treating bone infections. Twenty rats in the control group were treated with physiologic saline solution after surgery, and 20 rats in the treatment group were treated with OP-145 PLGA microspheres and vancomycin after surgery. The biofilms from treatment and control groups were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy. Blood samples were collected at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h. OP-145 PLGA microspheres showed significant inhibitory effects on clinically isolated strains (P < 0.05) and there were significant differences in serum CRP (P < 0.05) levels compared with control group. In conclusion, OP-145 PLGA microspheres could slowly release antimicrobial peptides and significantly reduce biofilm formation and levels of inflammatory factors.
Association of dysmorphic intratumoral vessel with high lung shunt fraction in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Choi Tae Won , Joo Ijin , Kim Hyo-Cheol
Published: August 2022

To evaluate the role of dysmorphic intratumoral vessels as imaging marker for the prediction of high lung shunt fraction (LSF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This retrospective study included 403 patients with HCC who underwent a planning arteriography for transarterial radioembolization with administration of 99mTc-macroaggregated albumin to calculate LSF. The LSF was measured by using planar body scans. Two radiologists evaluated the pre-treatment contrast-enhanced CT findings, including tumor number, size, margin, distribution, tumor burden, portal and hepatic vein invasion, early hepatic vein enhancement, and dysmorphic intratumoral vessels. The logistic regression analysis was performed to determine significant predictors for high LSF > 20%. Using the identified predictors, diagnostic criteria for high LSF were proposed. Among 403 patients, 52 (13%) patients had high LSF > 20%, and dysmorphic tumor vessels were present in 115 (28.5%) patients. Predictors for LSF > 20% were tumor size > 11 cm, hepatic vein invasion, early hepatic vein enhancement, and dysmorphic intratumoral vessel. If the patient had three or more of the four predictors for LSF > 20% on imaging, the accuracy and specificity for diagnosing LSF > 20% were 88.8% and 96.3% respectively. Dysmorphic intratumoral vessel in HCC is an imaging marker suggesting a high LSF, which may be applicable to treatment modification or patient exclusion for radioembolization with combined interpretation of tumor size and hepatic vein abnormality.
New disordered anyon phase of doped graphene zigzag nanoribbon
Authors: Kim Young Heon , Lee Hye Jeong , Lee Hyun-Yong , Yang S.-R. Eric
Published: August 2022

We investigate interacting disordered zigzag nanoribbons at low doping, using the Hubbard model to treat electron interactions within the density matrix renormalization group and Hartree-Fock method. Extra electrons that are inserted into an interacting disordered zigzag nanoribbon divide into anyons. Furthermore, the fractional charges form a new disordered anyon phase with a highly distorted edge spin density wave, containing numerous localized magnetic moments residing on the zigzag edges, thereby displaying spin-charge separation and a strong non-local correlation between the opposite zigzag edges. We make the following new predictions, which can be experimentally tested: (1) In the low doping case and weak disorder regime, the soft gap in the tunneling density of states is replaced by a sharp peak at the midgap energy with two accompanying peaks. The $$e^-/2$$

e
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2

fractional charges that reside on the boundary of the zigzag edges are responsible for these peaks. (2) We find that the midgap peak disappears as the doping concentration increases. The presence of $$e^-/2$$

e
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fractional charges will be strongly supported by the detection of these peaks. Doped zigzag ribbons may also exhibit unusual transport, magnetic, and inter-edge tunneling properties.
Bimodal distribution pattern associated with the PCR cycle threshold (Ct) and implications in COVID-19 infections
Authors: Yang Doris , Hansel Donna E. , Curlin Marcel E. , Townes John M. , Messer William B. , Fan Guang , Qin Xuan
Published: August 2022

SARS-CoV-2 is notable for its extremely high level of viral replication in respiratory epithelial cells, relative to other cell types. This may partially explain the high transmissibility and rapid global dissemination observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cycle threshold (Ct) number has been widely used as a proxy for viral load based on the inverse relationship between Ct number and amplifiable genome copies present in a sample. We examined two PCR platforms (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2019-nCoV Real-time RT-PCR, Integrated DNA Technologies; and TaqPath COVID-19 multi-plex combination kit, ThermoFisher Scientific) for their performance characteristics and Ct distribution patterns based on results generated from 208,947 clinical samples obtained between October 2020 and September 2021. From 14,231 positive tests, Ct values ranged from 8 to 39 and displayed a pronounced bimodal distribution. The bimodal distribution persisted when stratified by gender, age, and time period of sample collection during which different viral variants circulated. This finding may be a result of heterogeneity in disease progression or host response to infection irrespective of age, gender, or viral variants. Quantification of respiratory mucosal viral load may provide additional insight into transmission and clinical indicators helpful for infection control.
Reversed double-beam photoacoustic spectroscopic analysis of photoinduced change in absorption of cellulose fibres
Authors: Csóka Levente , Hosakun Worakan , Kolonics Ottó , Ohtani Bunsho
Published: August 2022

Photoabsorption properties of cellulose fibres under continuous and modulated irradiation were investigated in situ by the use of reversed double-beam photoacoustic spectroscopy (RDB-PAS). This photoacoustic (PA) measurement enabled observation of ultraviolet- and visible light-induced, electron trap filling, and reductive change on the surface of the fibres. Energy-resolved measurements and analysis of the kinetics of photoinduced de-excitation suggested that electrons that accumulated in the different cellulose crystalline phases had moderate reactivity toward molecular oxygen. Saturation limits of the intensities of the PA and RDB-PAS signals under de-aerated conditions in the presence of surface-adsorbed methanol were estimated for softwood and hardwood cellulose samples. The results suggest that the RDB-PAS technique is a feasible method for the estimation of the electron trap distribution, which is a potential measure of the density of crystalline cellulose defects.
Toxicity mechanisms of aflatoxin M1 assisted with molecular docking and the toxicity-limiting role of trans-resveratrol
Authors: Güç İlknur , Yalçin Emine , Çavuşoğlu Kültiğin , Acar Ali
Published: August 2022

In this study, AFM1toxicity and the protective role of trans-resveratrol (t-rsv) against this toxicity were investigated with the help of multiple parameters in albino mice. As a result, AFM1(16 mg/kg b.w) administration caused a decrease in body, kidney and liver weights. This reduction was associated with a decrease in feed consumption. AFM1induced an increase in AST and ALT enzyme parameters and BUN, creatinine and MDA levels and a decrease in GSH levels. These increases have been associated with liver and kidney cell damage. AFM1decreased MI and encouraged increases in MN and CAs numbers. The decrease in MI was correlated with AFM1-tubulin and the increase in CAs was associated with the AFM1-DNA interaction, which was demonstrated by molecular docking and spectral shifting. Besides, the decrease in DNA damage and amount was demonstrated by the comet assay technique. Administration of t-rsv (10 and 20 mg/kg b.w) reduced the toxic effects of AFM1and caused a dose-dependent improvement in all physiological, biochemical and cytogenetic parameter values studied. For this reason, foods containing t-rsv or food supplements should be consumed in the daily diet to reduce the effect of toxic agents.