bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of Compact Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Semmelmann Uwe , Weingart Gregor
Published: February 2022

In this article, we study the stability problem for the Einstein–Hilbert functional on compact symmetric spaces following and completing the seminal work of Koiso on the subject. We classify in detail the irreducible representations of simple Lie algebras with Casimir eigenvalue less than the Casimir eigenvalue of the adjoint representation and use this information to prove the stability of the Einstein metrics on both the quaternionic and Cayley projective plane. Moreover, we prove that the Einstein metrics on quaternionic Grassmannians different from projective spaces are unstable.
Ulcus cruris venosum
Authors: Weber B. , Deinsberger J.
Published: February 2022

Das Ulcus cruris venosum entsteht im Rahmen einer fortgeschrittenen chronisch-venösen Insuffizienz und stellt die häufigste Entität chronischer Ulzerationen der unteren Extremität dar. Da die Prävalenz im Alter deutlich ansteigt, stellen venöse Ulzera in einer alternden Gesellschaft ein zunehmend relevantes Gesundheitsproblem dar, welches mit einer signifikanten Morbidität und einer hohen sozioökonomischen Belastung verbunden ist. Die Behandlung stellt aufgrund der niedrigen Heilungsrate, der häufigen Chronifizierung und der hohen Rezidivrate eine Herausforderung dar. Die Therapie umfasst in der Regel mehrere Modalitäten, wobei stets die Reduktion der venösen Hypertension in den zuführenden Gefäßen im Vordergrund steht. Bezüglich konservativer Therapieoptionen stehen die Kompressionstherapie, die pharmakologische Therapie sowie ergänzend die lokale Wundpflege zur Verfügung. Im Rahmen der kausalen, invasiven Therapie der dem Ulkus zugrunde liegenden Varkositas finden vor allem endoluminal-ablative Verfahren, die offene chirurgische Sanierung und die Schaumsklerotherapie ihre Anwendung. Neben einer Optimierung der invasiven Verfahren, liegt vor allem in der Entwicklung adjuvanter Therapiemodalitäten noch großes Potenzial.
A review on organosolv pretreatment of softwood with a focus on enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose
Authors: Vaidya Alankar A. , Murton Karl D. , Smith Dawn A. , Dedual Gaetano
Published: February 2022

A clean and efficient fractionation of biomass into cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin streams is a key step in biofuel and biorefinery industries. Lignin-free cellulose and hemicellulose streams can be enzymatically hydrolysed to sugars for fermentation to different biofuels, high value biochemicals and biopolymers. Towards this objective, organosolv pretreatment is the promising strategy to separate lignin from carbohydrates. Scientific information on the organosolv pretreatment using lignocellulosic biomass in general and various organic wastes is available with a focus on lignin separation and its use. Amongst different lignocellulosic biomass, softwood is a challenging feedstock due to recalcitrance towards enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose. The aim of this review is to describe technical and research efforts on various organosolv processes developed specifically for softwood as a feedstock and how it influences enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose. Process severity factor, selection of the solvent and choice of a catalyst in organosolv process are discussed. The differences in conventional pulping versus organosolv pretreatment and physico-chemical changes that occur in organosolv fractionated cellulose, lignin and hemicellulose are explained. Pilot and demonstration scale organosolv treatment plants and the challenges they face going towards commercialisation, as well as a path to the future growth and advancement in softwood organosolv processes, are discussed.

Graphical abstract
Biochar-SO prepared from pea peels by dehydration with sulfuric acid improves the adsorption of Cr6+ from water
Authors: El-Nemr Mohamed A. , Yılmaz Murat , Ragab Safaa , El Nemr Ahmed
Published: February 2022

A new biochar was produced from pea peel residues by the dehydration process. The effect of the obtained new biochar on the ability to remove Cr6+ ions from the aqueous solution was investigated. Biochar-SO was obtained from pea peel by dehydration of biochar with 50% sulfuric acid. The obtained biochars were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR); Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET); Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH); thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); scanning electron microscope (SEM); and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX) analyses. The optimum pH value for Cr6+ ion removal was determined as 1.48. The maximum removal percentage of Cr6+ ions was 90.74% for Biochar-SO of 100 mg·L−1 Cr6+ ions initial concentration and 1.0 g L−1 adsorbent dosage. The maximum adsorption capacity (Qm) of biochar-SO was 158.73 mg·g−1. The data obtained were analyzed with Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) isotherm models. In addition, the data obtained from these isotherm models were tested using different error functions (hybrid error function (HYBRID), average percent errors (APE), the sum of the absolute errors (EABS), chi-square error (X2), and Marquardt’s percent standard deviation (MPSD and the root mean square errors (RMS)) equations. It was the Freundlich isotherm model that best fits the experimental data of biochar-SO. Kinetic data were evaluated by pseudo–first-order (PFO), pseudo–second-order (PSO), Elovich, and intraparticle diffusion models. The adsorption rate was primarily controlled by the PSO rate model with a good correlation (R2 = 1). The adsorption mechanism of biochar-SO to remove Cr6+ ions can be based on electrostatic interaction and ion exchange with exchangeable cations in biochar such as aluminum, silicon, and calcium ions for chromium. The results indicate that biochar-SO is a promising adsorbent for the adsorption of Cr6+ ions that can be employed repeatedly without substantial loss of adsorption effectiveness.
Development of a Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire for Men-Who-Have-Sex-With-Men With Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lee Tsz Kin , Wibowo Erik , Dowsett Gary W. , Nelson Christian J. , Oliffe John L. , Mitteldorf Darryl , Wong Samantha Tze Sum , Wassersug Richard J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is often diagnosed early with prolonged survival, which makes sexual quality of life (QoL) an increasingly important treatment consideration, but existing QoL questionnaires have limited applicability for men who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) beyond penile erections and penetrative sex.

Aim

We aimed to create a validated survey instrument for assessing a variety of sexual activities beyond penile insertive sex for MSM after PCa treatment.

Methods

Based on our previously published survey findings, we have generated a prototype questionnaire with 13 different domains, reviewed by both healthy MSM and pilot-tested by MSM treated for PCa.

Outcomes

We report here on progress in developing the questionnaire and demonstrate the complexity of MSM sexual side effects resulting from PCa treatment(s).

Results

Statistical analysis of 204 responses from MSM treated for PCa showed that each domain performed well individually (Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranged from 0.80 to 0.95; item-total correlations ranged from 0.16 to 0.89), with many significant intercorrelations between the domains (ranged from -0.048 to 0.93).

Clinical Implications

The questionnaire can contribute to clinical diagnosis and treatment decisions that best fit the preferred sexual practices of individual MSM.

Strengths & Limitations

The current questionnaire considers a much broader repertoire of MSM's sexual practices and preferences than other currently available questionnaires. The high intercorrelations between the many parameters demonstrate that problems in one domain can affect other domains. This preliminary analysis warrants further exploration with a larger sample size.

Conclusions

Once validated our questionnaire should help develop tailored psychosocial supports for MSM experiencing sexual dysfunction after PCa treatment and help newly diagnosed MSM with PCa make treatment decisions informed by their preferred sexual practices.
The Great Leap Offshore: Sino-Norwegian Relations and Petro-Knowledge Transfers, 1976–1997
Authors: Gjersø Jonas Fossli
Published: February 2022

China’s reemergence among the world’s leading economic and political powers has been one of the most defining changes in the international order since the end of the Cold War. Underpinning China’s ascent were the economic reforms instituted across the late 1970s and early 1980s that opened its economy to foreign direct investments. Preceding these reforms were the ambitions entertained for China’s continental shelf, optimistically forecasting it as nothing less than “the world’s richest petroleum reservoir.” This article will attempt to link these phenomena by examining the economic readjustment in conjunction with the capital- and technology-intensive requirements of the offshore oil industry. It will explore how petroleum knowledge was diffused between Norway and China: notably, how Chinese reformers abandoned the Daqinigst doctrine of self-reliance in favor of a hybrid Norwegian model of petroleum governance. Even though exploration efforts proved disappointing, the episode had both long-term political and commercial ramifications. It was during this often-overlooked episode of Chinese, international, and indeed Norwegian petroleum history that Norway’s national oil company, Statoil, took its first steps outside the Norwegian continental shelf and inspired the formation of China’s own national offshore oil company, China National Offshore Oil Corporation.
Spatial analysis of sub-regional variation in Southern US English
Authors: Jones Jonathan A. , Renwick Margaret E. L.
Published: February 2022

This project uses GIS mapping to analyze spatial trends in spoken language, testing how features identified as part of the “Southern dialect” by theAtlas of North American English(ANAE; Labov et al., 2006) are used in the Digital Archive of Southern Speech (DASS; Kretzschmar et al., 2013). We analyze vowel mergers, diphthongization, monophthongization, fronting, and several consonantal features. Rather than drawing isoglosses, we use local spatial autocorrelation analysis to reveal subregional patterning in the data. We present a series of maps illustrating the realization of Southern speech features as enumerated byANAE. We find little evidence forANAE’s Inland South region based on acoustics, and while some areas surveyed in DASS align well with the portrayal of Southern speech presented byANAE, others do not.
Neurotechnology and international security
Authors: Kosal Margaret , Putney Joy
Published: February 2022

In the past decade, international actors have launched “brain projects” or “brain initiatives.” One of the emerging technologies enabled by these publicly funded programs is brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which are devices that allow communication between the brain and external devices like a prosthetic arm or a keyboard. BCIs are poised to have significant impacts on public health, society, and national security. This research presents the first analytical framework that attempts to predict the dissemination of neurotechnologies to both the commercial and military sectors in the United States and China. While China started its project later with less funding, we find that it has other advantages that make earlier adoption more likely. We also articulate national security risks implicit in later adoption, including the inability to set international ethical and legal norms for BCI use, especially in wartime operating environments, and data privacy risks for citizens who use technology developed by foreign actors.
AN APPLICATION OF BINARY QUADRATIC FORMS OF DISCRIMINANT TO MODULAR FORMS
Authors: AYGIN ZAFER SELCUK , WILLIAMS KENNETH S.
Published: February 2022

In this note, we use Dedekind’s eta function to prove a congruence relation between the number of representations by binary quadratic forms of discriminant
$-31$
and Fourier coefficients of a weight
$16$
cusp form. Our result is analogous to the classical result concerning Ramanujan’s tau function and binary quadratic forms of discriminant
$-23$
.
Gyrofluid analysis of electron β
e
effects on collisionless reconnection
Authors: Granier C. , Borgogno D. , Grasso D. , Tassi E.
Published: February 2022

The linear and nonlinear evolutions of the tearing instability in a collisionless plasma with a strong guide field are analysed on the basis of a two-field Hamiltonian gyrofluid model. The model is valid for a low ion temperature and a finite

$\beta _e$

. The finite

$\beta _e$

effect implies a magnetic perturbation along the guide field direction, and electron finite Larmor radius effects. A Hamiltonian derivation of the model is presented. A new dispersion relation of the tearing instability is derived for the case

$\beta _e=0$

and tested against numerical simulations. For

$\beta _e \ll 1$

the equilibrium electron temperature is seen to enhance the linear growth rate, whereas we observe a stabilizing role when electron finite Larmor radius effects become more relevant. In the nonlinear phase, stall phases and faster than exponential phases are observed, similarly to what occurs in the presence of ion finite Larmor radius effects. Energy transfers are analysed and the conservation laws associated with the Casimir invariants of the model are also discussed. Numerical simulations seem to indicate that finite

$\beta _e$

effects do not produce qualitative modifications in the structures of the Lagrangian invariants associated with Casimirs of the model.
Codes of ethics for psychiatrists: past, present and prospect
Authors: Bloch Sidney , Kenn Felicity , Lim Izaak
Published: February 2022

Background

Codes of ethics in medicine have an ancient tradition, extending back to the Oath of Hippocrates. Yet it was only in the early 1970s that the speciality of psychiatry developed a specific code to address the unique ethical dilemmas and complexities arising in psychiatric practice. As the 50thanniversary of the publication of psychiatry's first code of ethics approaches, it is timely to reflect on the progress, role, and impact of such codes.

Our aim is to provide a historically informed review of codes of ethics in psychiatry – their origins and evolution, the current picture, and the possibilities for future development.

Methods

We conducted a selective review of relevant literature (including all codes of ethics accessible on the websites of World Psychiatric Association members states), analysis of the form and content of codes and related documents in psychiatry, and interviews of psychiatrists who have played central roles in their evolution.

Results

Of the 143 WPA member states, only 15 codes of ethics for psychiatrists were identified, and few of these were associated with professional disciplinary processes. We found that these codes are rarely revised and sometimes supplemented with other statements and guidelines.

Conclusions

While there are difficulties in measuring the direct effectiveness of codes of ethics on the practice of psychiatrists, we conclude that these codes help to (1) promote professional solidarity and autonomy, (2) enhance moral sensitivity, and (3) aid in psychiatric education and training.
Experimental Study on Sand/Bed Collision Over the Gobi Surface
Authors: Zhang C. , Huang N. , Dun H. C.
Published: February 2022

The wind‐blown sand in the Gobi Desert area significantly influences the occurrence and development of sandstorms. As a key physical process in saltation, sand–bed collisions are significant for wind‐blown sand movement. However, till date, there is still a lack of deep understanding and quantitative description of the sand movement in the Gobi, especially for the collision process between sand particles and the surface that has abundant gravel and crust. In this study, the collision process between natural sand particles and the Gobi surface samples, collected in the field, was recorded with a high‐speed camera, and the statistical rebound process of particles was reconstructed using a post‐processing method. The results show that the collision coefficient of restitution of sand to gravel and crust follows a lognormal distribution and decreases with increasing incident particle speed. Furthermore, the rebound angle also obeys the lognormal distribution, where the incident angle is a critical factor. The bounce property of the sand–bed collision process on the Gobi surface is qualitatively different from that on a loose sand surface. This study provides a new perspective for understanding the splash process and sandstorms on the Gobi surface.
Calibration-free speckle matrix imaging
Authors: del Hougne Philipp
Published: February 2022

Unknown speckle patterns can be used to image targets embedded in complex scattering media 100 times faster than previous techniques based on carefully calibrated illuminations.
High-frequency ventilation in preterm infants and neonates
Authors: Ackermann Benjamin W. , Klotz Daniel , Hentschel Roland , Thome Ulrich H. , van Kaam Anton H.
Published: February 2022

High-frequency ventilation (HFV) has been used as a respiratory support mode for neonates for over 30 years. HFV is characterized by delivering tidal volumes close to or less than the anatomical dead space. Both animal and clinical studies have shown that HFV can effectively restore lung function, and potentially limit ventilator-induced lung injury, which is considered an important risk factor for developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Knowledge of how HFV works, how it influences cardiorespiratory physiology, and how to apply it in daily clinical practice has proven to be essential for its optimal and safe use. We will present important aspects of gas exchange, lung-protective concepts, clinical use, and possible adverse effects of HFV. We also discuss the study results on the use of HFV in respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants and respiratory failure in term neonates.

Impact

Knowledge of how HFV works, how it influences cardiorespiratory physiology, and how to apply it in daily clinical practice has proven to be essential for its optimal and safe use.

Therefore, we present important aspects of gas exchange, lung-protective concepts, clinical use, and possible adverse effects of HFV.

The use of HFV in daily clinical practice in lung recruitment, determination of the optimal continuous distending pressure and frequency, and typical side effects of HFV are discussed.

We also present study results on the use of HFV in respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants and respiratory failure in term neonates.
Pediatric central venous access devices: practice, performance, and costs
Authors: Ullman Amanda J. , Gibson Victoria , Takashima Mari D. , Kleidon Tricia M. , Schults Jessica , Saiyed Masnoon , Cattanach Paula , Paterson Rebecca , Cooke Marie , Rickard Claire M. , Byrnes Joshua , Chopra Vineet
Published: February 2022

Background

Healthcare delivery is reliant on a functional central venous access device (CVAD), but the knowledge surrounding the burden of pediatric CVAD-associated harm is limited.

Methods

A prospective cohort study at a tertiary-referral pediatric hospital in Australia. Children <18 years undergoing insertion of a CVAD were screened from the operating theatre and intensive care unit records, then assessed bi-weekly for up to 3 months. Outcomes were CVAD failure and complications, and associated healthcare costs (cost of complications).

Results

163 patients with 200 CVADs were recruited and followed for 6993 catheter days, with peripherally inserted central catheters most common (n = 119; 60%). CVAD failure occurred in 20% of devices (n = 30; 95% CI: 15–26), at an incidence rate (IR) of 5.72 per 1000 catheter days (95% CI: 4.09–7.78). CVAD complications were evident in 43% of all CVADs (n = 86; 95% CI: 36–50), at a rate of 12.29 per 1000 catheter days (95% CI: 9.84–15.16). CVAD failure costs were A$826 per episode, and A$165,372 per 1000 CVADs. Comparisons between current and recommended practice revealed inconsistent use of ultrasound guidance for insertion, sub-optimal tip-positioning, and appropriate device selection.

Conclusions

CVAD complications and failures represent substantial burdens to children and healthcare. Future efforts need to focus on the inconsistent use of best practices.

Impact

Current surveillance of central venous access device (CVAD) performance is likely under-estimating actual burden on pediatric patients and the healthcare system.

CVAD failure due to complication was evident in 20% of CVADs. Costs associated with CVAD complications average at $2327 (AUD, 2020) per episode.

Further investment in key diverse practice areas, including new CVAD types, CVAD pathology-based occlusion and dislodgment strategies, the appropriate use of device types, and tip-positioning technologies, will likely lead to extensive benefit.
CUGBP1, a crucial factor for heart regeneration in mice
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Huiwen , Zhang Han , Wang Jun , Liu Qun , Bi Youkun , Song Shaole , Qiao Xinlong , Zhu Keqi , Wu Yanyun , Ji Guangju
Published: February 2022

The mammalian heart is capable of achieving perfect regeneration following cardiac injury through sustained cardiomyocyte proliferation during the early period after birth. However, this regenerative capacity is lost by postnatal day 7 and throughout adulthood. CUGBP1 is critical for normal cardiac development but its role in heart regeneration remains unclear. Cardiac CUGBP1 levels are high in the early postnatal period and soon downregulate to adult levels within 1 week following birth in mice. The simultaneously diminished regenerative capacity and CUGBP1 levels by postnatal day lead us to hypothesize that CUGBP1 may be beneficial in heart regeneration. In this study, the function of CUGBP1 in heart regeneration was tested by a heart apex resection mouse model. We demonstrate that cardiac inactivation of CUGBP1 impairs neonatal heart regeneration at P1, in turn, replenishment of CUGBP1 levels prolong regenerative potential at P8 and P14. Furthermore, our results imply that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and GATA4 involve in the CUGBP1 modulated neonatal heart regeneration. Altogether, our findings support CUGBP1 as a key factor promoting post-injury heart regeneration and provide a potential therapeutic method for heart disease.
Syntenin-1-mediated small extracellular vesicles promotes cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis by increasing onco-miRNAs secretion in lung cancer cells
Authors: Kim Okhwa , Hwangbo Cheol , Tran Phuong Thao , Lee Jeong-Hyung
Published: February 2022

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) play a pivotal role in tumor progression by mediating intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Syntenin-1 induces malignant tumor progression in various types of human cancers, including human lung cancer and regulates biogenesis of sEVs. However, the function of syntenin-1-regulated sEVs and miRNAs in sEVs remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we aimed to demonstrate the role of oncogenic Ras/syntenin-1 axis in the release of sEVs and elucidate the function of syntenin-1-mediated miRNAs in sEVs in lung cancer progression. The results revealed that oncogenic Ras promoted the release of sEVs by inducing syntenin-1 expression; disruption of syntenin-1 expression impaired the release of sEVs as well as sEV-mediated cancer cell migration and angiogenesis. Moreover, we identified three miRNAs, namely miR-181a, miR-425-5p, and miR-494-3p, as onco-miRNAs loaded into syntenin-1-dependent sEVs. Remarkably, miR-494-3p was highly abundant in sEVs and its release was triggered by syntenin-1 expression and oncogenic Ras. Ectopic expression of the miR-494-3p mimic enhanced the migration and proliferation of lung cancer cells as well as tube formation in endothelial cells; however, the miR-494-3p inhibitor blocked sEV-mediated effects by targeting tyrosine-protein phosphatase nonreceptor type 12 (PTPN12), a tumor suppressor. sEVs promoted tumor growth and angiogenesis by downregulating PTPN12 expression; however, the miR-494-3p inhibitor significantly suppressed these effects in vivo, confirming that miR-494-3p acts as a major onco-miRNA loaded into lung cancer cell-derived sEVs. Eventually, the oncogenic Ras/syntenin-1 axis may induce cancer progression by increasing miR-494-3p loading into sEVs in lung cancer cells in the TME.
Targeted activation of androgen receptor signaling in the periosteum improves bone fracture repair
Authors: Lan Kuo-Chung , Wei Kuo-Ting , Lin Pei-Wen , Lin Ching-Chen , Won Pei-Ling , Liu Ya-Fen , Chen Yun-Ju , Cheng Bi-Hua , Chu Tien-Min G. , Chen Jia-Feng , Huang Ko-En , Chang Chawnshang , Kang Hong-Yo
Published: February 2022

Low testosterone level is an independent predictor of osteoporotic fracture in elderly men as well as increased fracture risk in men undergoing androgen deprivation. Androgens and androgen receptor (AR) actions are essential for bone development and homeostasis but their linkage to fracture repair remains unclear. Here we found that AR is highly expressed in the periosteum cells and is co-localized with a mesenchymal progenitor cell marker, paired-related homeobox protein 1 (Prrx1), during bone fracture repair. Mice lacking the AR gene in the periosteum expressing Prrx1-cre (AR-/Y;Prrx1::Cre) but not in the chondrocytes (AR-/Y;Col-2::Cre) exhibits reduced callus size and new bone volume. Gene expression data analysis revealed that the expression of several collagens, integrins and cell adhesion molecules were downregulated in periosteum-derived progenitor cells (PDCs) from AR-/Y;Prrx1::Cre mice. Mechanistically, androgens-AR signaling activates the AR/ARA55/FAK complex and induces the collagen-integrin α2β1 gene expression that is required for promoting the AR-mediated PDCs migration. Using mouse cortical-defect and femoral graft transplantation models, we proved that elimination of AR in periosteum of host mice impairs fracture healing, regardless of AR existence of transplanted donor graft. While testosterone implanted scaffolds failed to complete callus bridging across the fracture gap in AR-/Y;Prrx1::Cre mice, cell-based transplantation using DPCs re-expressing AR could lead to rescue bone repair. In conclusion, targeting androgen/AR axis in the periosteum may provide a novel therapy approach to improve fracture healing.
Amylin-Calcitonin receptor signaling in the medial preoptic area mediates affiliative social behaviors in female mice
Authors: Fukumitsu Kansai , Kaneko Misato , Maruyama Teppo , Yoshihara Chihiro , Huang Arthur J. , McHugh Thomas J. , Itohara Shigeyoshi , Tanaka Minoru , Kuroda Kumi O.
Published: February 2022

Social animals actively engage in contact with conspecifics and experience stress upon isolation. However, the neural mechanisms coordinating the sensing and seeking of social contacts are unclear. Here we report that amylin-calcitonin receptor (Calcr) signaling in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) mediates affiliative social contacts among adult female mice. Isolation of females from free social interactions first induces active contact-seeking, then depressive-like behavior, concurrent with a loss of Amylin mRNA expression in the MPOA. Reunion with peers induces physical contacts, activates both amylin- and Calcr-expressing neurons, and leads to a recovery of Amylin mRNA expression. Chemogenetic activation of amylin neurons increases and molecular knockdown of either amylin or Calcr attenuates contact-seeking behavior, respectively. Our data provide evidence in support of a previously postulated origin of social affiliation in mammals.
Exogenic origin for the volatiles sampled by the Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite impact
Authors: Mandt K. E. , Mousis O. , Hurley D. , Bouquet A. , Retherford K. D. , Magaña L. O. , Luspay-Kuti A.
Published: February 2022

Returning humans to the Moon presents an unprecedented opportunity to determine the origin of volatiles stored in the permanently shaded regions (PSRs), which trace the history of lunar volcanic activity, solar wind surface chemistry, and volatile delivery to the Earth and Moon through impacts of comets, asteroids, and micrometeoroids. So far, the source of the volatiles sampled by the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) plume has remained undetermined. We show here that the source could not be volcanic outgassing and the composition is best explained by cometary impacts. Ruling out a volcanic source means that volatiles in the top 1-3 meters of the Cabeus PSR regolith may be younger than the latest volcanic outgassing event (~1 billion years ago; Gya).
Observation of perfect diamagnetism and interfacial effect on the electronic structures in infinite layer Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 superconductors
Authors: Zeng S. W. , Yin X. M. , Li C. J. , Chow L. E. , Tang C. S. , Han K. , Huang Z. , Cao Y. , Wan D. Y. , Zhang Z. T. , Lim Z. S. , Diao C. Z. , Yang P. , Wee A. T. S. , Pennycook S. J. , Ariando A.
Published: February 2022

Nickel-based complex oxides have served as a playground for decades in the quest for a copper-oxide analog of the high-temperature superconductivity. They may provide clues towards understanding the mechanism and an alternative route for high-temperature superconductors. The recent discovery of superconductivity in the infinite-layer nickelate thin films has fulfilled this pursuit. However, material synthesis remains challenging, direct demonstration of perfect diamagnetism is still missing, and understanding of the role of the interface and bulk to the superconducting properties is still lacking. Here, we show high-quality Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 thin films with different thicknesses and demonstrate the interface and strain effects on the electrical, magnetic and optical properties. Perfect diamagnetism is achieved, confirming the occurrence of superconductivity in the films. Unlike the thick films in which the normal-state Hall-coefficient changes signs as the temperature decreases, the Hall-coefficient of films thinner than 5.5 nm remains negative, suggesting a thickness-driven band structure modification. Moreover, X-ray absorption spectroscopy reveals the Ni-O hybridization nature in doped infinite-layer nickelates, and the hybridization is enhanced as the thickness decreases. Consistent with band structure calculations on the nickelate/SrTiO3 heterostructure, the interface and strain effect induce a dominating electron-like band in the ultrathin film, thus causing the sign-change of the Hall-coefficient.
Mechanisms underlying TARP modulation of the GluA1/2-γ8 AMPA receptor
Authors: Herguedas Beatriz , Kohegyi Bianka K. , Dohrke Jan-Niklas , Watson Jake F. , Zhang Danyang , Ho Hinze , Shaikh Saher A. , Lape Remigijus , Krieger James M. , Greger Ingo H.
Published: February 2022

AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediate rapid signal transmission at excitatory synapses in the brain. Glutamate binding to the receptor’s ligand-binding domains (LBDs) leads to ion channel activation and desensitization. Gating kinetics shape synaptic transmission and are strongly modulated by transmembrane AMPAR regulatory proteins (TARPs) through currently incompletely resolved mechanisms. Here, electron cryo-microscopy structures of the GluA1/2 TARP-γ8 complex, in both open and desensitized states (at 3.5 Å), reveal state-selective engagement of the LBDs by the large TARP-γ8 loop (‘β1’), elucidating how this TARP stabilizes specific gating states. We further show how TARPs alter channel rectification, by interacting with the pore helix of the selectivity filter. Lastly, we reveal that the Q/R-editing site couples the channel constriction at the filter entrance to the gate, and forms the major cation binding site in the conduction path. Our results provide a mechanistic framework of how TARPs modulate AMPAR gating and conductance.
Tousled-like kinase 2 targets ASF1 histone chaperones through client mimicry
Authors: Simon Bertrand , Lou Hua Jane , Huet-Calderwood Clotilde , Shi Guangda , Boggon Titus J. , Turk Benjamin E. , Calderwood David A.
Published: February 2022

Tousled-like kinases (TLKs) are nuclear serine-threonine kinases essential for genome maintenance and proper cell division in animals and plants. A major function of TLKs is to phosphorylate the histone chaperone proteins ASF1a and ASF1b to facilitate DNA replication-coupled nucleosome assembly, but how TLKs selectively target these critical substrates is unknown. Here, we show that TLK2 selectivity towards ASF1 substrates is achieved in two ways. First, the TLK2 catalytic domain recognizes consensus phosphorylation site motifs in the ASF1 C-terminal tail. Second, a short sequence at the TLK2 N-terminus docks onto the ASF1a globular N-terminal domain in a manner that mimics its histone H3 client. Disrupting either catalytic or non-catalytic interactions through mutagenesis hampers ASF1 phosphorylation by TLK2 and cell growth. Our results suggest that the stringent selectivity of TLKs for ASF1 is enforced by an unusual interaction mode involving mutual recognition of a short sequence motifs by both kinase and substrate.
RNA-seq profiling of white and brown adipocyte differentiation treated with epigallocatechin gallate
Authors: Zhang Pengpeng , Wu Wei , Du Chunyu , Ji Xiang , Wang Yaling , Han Qiu , Xu Hiaxia , Li Cencen , Xu Yongjie
Published: February 2022

Due to serious adverse effects, many of the approved anti-obesity medicines have been withdrawn, and the selection of safer natural ingredients is of great interest. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is one of the major green tea catechins, and has been demonstrated to possess an anti-obesity function by regulating both white and brown adipose tissue activity. However, there are currently no publicly available studies describing the effects of EGCG on the two distinct adipose tissue transcriptomes. The stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cell derived from adipose tissue is a classic cell model for studying adipogenesis and fat accumulation. In the current study, primary WAT and BAT SVF cells were isolated and induced to adipogenic differentiation in the presence or absence of EGCG. RNA-seq was used to determine genes regulated by EGCG and identify the key differences between the two functionally distinct adipose tissues. Taken together, we provide detailed stage- and tissue-specific gene expression profiles affected by EGCG. These data will be valuable for obesity-related clinical/basic research.
In situ vaccination using unique TLR9 ligand K3-SPG induces long-lasting systemic immune response and synergizes with systemic and local immunotherapy
Authors: Okada Hirokazu , Takahashi Ken , Yaku Hiroaki , Kobiyama Kouji , Iwaisako Keiko , Zhao Xiangdong , Shiokawa Masahiro , Uza Norimitsu , Kodama Yuzo , Ishii Ken J. , Seno Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

Although checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) have changed the paradigm of cancer therapy, low response rates and serious systemic adverse events remain challenging. In situ vaccine (ISV), intratumoral injection of immunomodulators that stimulate innate immunity at the tumor site, allows for the development of vaccines in patients themselves. K3-SPG, a second-generation nanoparticulate Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) ligand consisting of K-type CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) wrapped with SPG (schizophyllan), integrates the best of conventional CpG ODNs, making it an ideal cancer immunotherapy adjuvant. Focusing on clinical feasibility for pancreaticobiliary and gastrointestinal cancers, we investigated the antitumor activity of K3-SPG-ISV in preclinical models of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). K3-SPG-ISV suppressed tumor growth more potently than K3-ISV or K3-SPG intravenous injections, prolonged survival, and enhanced the antitumor effect of CPIs. Notably, in PDAC model, K3-SPG-ISV alone induced systemic antitumor effect and immunological memory. ISV combination of K3-SPG and agonistic CD40 antibody further enhanced the antitumor effect. Our results imply that K3-SPG-based ISV can be applied as monotherapy or combined with CPIs to improve their response rate or, conversely, with CPI-free local immunotherapy to avoid CPI-related adverse events. In either strategy, the potency of K3-SPG-based ISV would provide the rationale for its clinical application to puncturable pancreaticobiliary and gastrointestinal malignancies.
Sample-efficient parameter exploration of the powder film drying process using experiment-based Bayesian optimization
Authors: Nagai Kohei , Osa Takayuki , Inoue Gen , Tsujiguchi Takuya , Araki Takuto , Kuroda Yoshiyuki , Tomizawa Morio , Nagato Keisuke
Published: February 2022

Parameter optimization is a long-standing challenge in various production processes. Particularly, powder film forming processes entail multiscale and multiphysical phenomena, each of which is usually controlled by a combination of several parameters. Therefore, it is difficult to optimize the parameters either by numerical-model-based analysis or by “brute force” experiment-based exploration. In this study, we focus on a Bayesian optimization method that has led to breakthroughs in materials informatics. Specifically, we apply this method to exploration of production-process-parameter for the powder film forming process. To this end, a slurry containing a powder, polymer, and solvent was dropped, the drying temperature and time were controlled as parameters to be explored, and the uniformity of the fabricated film was evaluated. Using this experiment-based Bayesian optimization system, we searched for the optimal parameters among 32,768 (85) parameter sets to minimize defects. This optimization converged at 40 experiments, which is a substantially smaller number than that observed in brute-force exploration and traditional design-of-experiments methods. Furthermore, we inferred the mechanism corresponding to the unknown drying conditions discovered in the parameter exploration that resulted in uniform film formation. This demonstrates that a data-driven approach leads to high-throughput exploration and the discovery of novel parameters, which inspire further research.
Automatic real-time occupational posture evaluation and select corresponding ergonomic assessments
Authors: Lin Po-Chieh , Chen Yu-Jung , Chen Wei-Shin , Lee Yun-Ju
Published: February 2022

The objective is to develop a system to automatically select the corresponding assessment scales and calculate the score of the risk based on the joint angle information obtained from the imaged process (OpenPose) via image-based motion capture technology. Current occupational assessments, for example, REBA, RULA, and OWAS were used to evaluate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. However, the assessment result would not be reported immediately. Introducing real-time occupational assessments in different working environments will be helpful for occupational injury prevention. In this study, the decision tree was developed to select the most appropriate assessment method according to the joint angles derived by OpenPose image process. Fifteen operation videos were tested and these videos can be classified into six types including maintenance, handling, assembly, cleaning, office work, and driving. The selected ergonomic assessment method by our developed decision tree in each condition are consistent with the recommendation of the Labour Research Institute. Moreover, the high-risk posture could be identified immediately and provide to the inspector for further evaluation on this posture rather than the whole operation period. This approach provides a quick inspection of the operation movements to prevent musculoskeletal injuries and enhances the application of the scale assessment method in different industrial environments.
Characterization and phylogeny of fungi isolated from industrial wastewater using multiple genes
Authors: Ezeonuegbu Blessing Amaka , Abdullahi Machido Dauda , Whong Clement M. Z. , Sohunago Japhet Wisdom , Kassem Hazem S. , Yaro Clement Ameh , Hetta Helal F. , Mostafa-Hedeab Gomaa , Zouganelis George D. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was the isolation and molecular characterization of fungi from untreated refinery effluent by using multiple conserved genes. The Fungi isolated were characterized based on PCR amplification and genomic sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), partial β-tubulin (BenA), calmodulin (CaM), and RNA polymerase second large subunit (RPB2) genes, along with morphological characterization. The obtained sequences were subjected to BLAST analysis and the corresponding fungal isolates were assigned species names after comparison with representative sequences available in GenBank. Fifteen (15) Fungi species belonging to four genera of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, and Trichoderma with Aspergillus as the predominant genus were identified. Therefore these genes should be used as molecular markers for species level identification of fungi (especially Aspergillus and Penicillium as proven in this study.
Molecular diameters of rarefied gases
Authors: Kunze S. , Groll R. , Besser B. , Thöming J.
Published: February 2022

Molecular diameters are an important property of gases for numerous scientific and technical disciplines. Different measurement techniques for these diameters exist, each delivering a characteristic value. Their reliability in describing the flow of rarefied gases, however, has not yet been discussed, especially the case for the transitional range between continuum and ballistic flow. Here, we present a method to describe gas flows in straight channels with arbitrary cross sections for the whole Knudsen range by using a superposition model based on molecular diameters. This model allows us to determine a transition diameter from flow measurement data that paves the way for generalized calculations of gas behaviour under rarefied conditions linking continuum and free molecular regime.
Dual-color dynamic anti-counterfeiting labels with persistent emission after visible excitation allowing smartphone authentication
Authors: Katumo Ngei , Li Kai , Richards Bryce S. , Howard Ian A.
Published: February 2022

A significant impediment to the deployment of anti-counterfeiting technologies is the reliance on specialized hardware. Here, anti-counterfeiting labels are developed that are both excited and detected using a smartphone. The persistent luminescence pattern and color changes on the timescale of hundreds of milliseconds to seconds. The labels can be authenticated by comparing still images from the red and green channels of video acquired at known times after flashlight excitation against expected reference patterns. The labels are based on a green-emitting SrAl2O4: Eu2+,Dy3+ (SAED), and red-emitting CaS:Eu2+ phosphors whose lifetimes are varied: (i) for SAED from 0.5 to 11.7 s by annealing the commercial material in air; and (ii) CaS:Eu2+ from 0.1 to 0.6 s by varying the dopant concentration. Examples of anti-counterfeiting labels exhibiting changing emission patterns and colors on a seven-segment display, barcode, and emoji are demonstrated. These results demonstrate that phosphors with visible absorption and tunable persistent luminescence lifetimes on the order of hundreds of milliseconds to seconds are attractive for anti-counterfeiting applications as they allow authentication to be performed using only a smartphone. Further development should allow richer color shifts and enhancement of security by embedding further covert anti-counterfeiting features.
Molecular characterization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus genotype ST764-SCCmec type II in Thailand
Authors: Kondo Sumalee , Phokhaphan Pimonwan , Tongsima Sissades , Ngamphiw Chumpol , Phornsiricharoenphant Worawich , Ruangchai Wuthiwat , Disratthakit Areeya , Tingpej Pholawat , Mahasirimongkol Surakameth , Lulitanond Aroonlug , Apisarnthanarak Anucha , Palittapongarnpim Prasit
Published: February 2022

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant causative agent of hospital-acquired infections. We characterized MRSA isolated from August 2012 to July 2015 from Thammasat University Hospital. Genotypic characterization of MRSA SCCmec type II and III isolates were scrutinized by whole genome sequencing (WGS). The WGS data revealed that the MRSA SCCmec type II isolates belonged to ST764 previously reported mainly in Japan. All of tested isolates contained ACME Type II′, SaPIn2, SaPIn3, seb, interrupted SA1320, and had a virulence gene profile similar to Japan MRSA ST764. Rigorous surveillance of MRSA strains is imperative in Thailand to arrest its potential spread.
Optimizing intact skull intrinsic signal imaging for subsequent targeted electrophysiology across mouse visual cortex
Authors: Nsiangani Armel , Del Rosario Joseph , Yeh Alan C. , Shin Donghoon , Wells Shea , Lev-Ari Tidhar , Williams Brice , Haider Bilal
Published: February 2022

Understanding brain function requires repeatable measurements of neural activity across multiple scales and multiple brain areas. In mice, large scale cortical neural activity evokes hemodynamic changes readily observable with intrinsic signal imaging (ISI). Pairing ISI with visual stimulation allows identification of primary visual cortex (V1) and higher visual areas (HVAs), typically through cranial windows that thin or remove the skull. These procedures can diminish long-term mechanical and physiological stability required for delicate electrophysiological measurements made weeks to months after imaging (e.g., in subjects undergoing behavioral training). Here, we optimized and directly validated an intact skull ISI system in mice. We first assessed how imaging quality and duration affect reliability of retinotopic maps in V1 and HVAs. We then verified ISI map retinotopy in V1 and HVAs with targeted, multi-site electrophysiology several weeks after imaging. Reliable ISI maps of V1 and multiple HVAs emerged with ~ 60 trials of imaging (65 ± 6 min), and these showed strong correlation to local field potential (LFP) retinotopy in superficial cortical layers (r2 = 0.74–0.82). This system is thus well-suited for targeted, multi-area electrophysiology weeks to months after imaging. We provide detailed instructions and code for other researchers to implement this system.