bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultraviolet light-induced collagen degradation inhibits melanoma invasion
Authors: Budden Timothy , Gaudy-Marqueste Caroline , Porter Andrew , Kay Emily , Gurung Shilpa , Earnshaw Charles H. , Roeck Katharina , Craig Sarah , Traves Víctor , Krutmann Jean , Muller Patricia , Motta Luisa , Zanivan Sara , Malliri Angeliki , Furney Simon J. , Nagore Eduardo , Virós Amaya
Published: May 2021

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) damages the dermis and fibroblasts; and increases melanoma incidence. Fibroblasts and their matrix contribute to cancer, so we studied how UVR modifies dermal fibroblast function, the extracellular matrix (ECM) and melanoma invasion. We confirmed UVR-damaged fibroblasts persistently upregulate collagen-cleaving matrix metalloprotein-1 (MMP1) expression, reducing local collagen (COL1A1), and COL1A1 degradation by MMP1 decreased melanoma invasion. Conversely, inhibiting ECM degradation and MMP1 expression restored melanoma invasion. Primary cutaneous melanomas of aged humans show more cancer cells invade as single cells at the invasive front of melanomas expressing and depositing more collagen, and collagen and single melanoma cell invasion are robust predictors of poor melanoma-specific survival. Thus, primary melanomas arising over collagen-degraded skin are less invasive, and reduced invasion improves survival. However, melanoma-associated fibroblasts can restore invasion by increasing collagen synthesis. Finally, high COL1A1 gene expression is a biomarker of poor outcome across a range of primary cancers.
Functional and diffusion MRI reveal the neurophysiological basis of neonates’ noxious-stimulus evoked brain activity
Authors: Baxter Luke , Moultrie Fiona , Fitzgibbon Sean , Aspbury Marianne , Mansfield Roshni , Bastiani Matteo , Rogers Richard , Jbabdi Saad , Duff Eugene , Slater Rebeccah
Published: May 2021

Understanding the neurophysiology underlying neonatal responses to noxious stimulation is central to improving early life pain management. In this neonatal multimodal MRI study, we use resting-state and diffusion MRI to investigate inter-individual variability in noxious-stimulus evoked brain activity. We observe that cerebral haemodynamic responses to experimental noxious stimulation can be predicted from separately acquired resting-state brain activity (n = 18). Applying this prediction model to independent Developing Human Connectome Project data (n = 215), we identify negative associations between predicted noxious-stimulus evoked responses and white matter mean diffusivity. These associations are subsequently confirmed in the original noxious stimulation paradigm dataset, validating the prediction model. Here, we observe that noxious-stimulus evoked brain activity in healthy neonates is coupled to resting-state activity and white matter microstructure, that neural features can be used to predict responses to noxious stimulation, and that the dHCP dataset could be utilised for future exploratory research of early life pain system neurophysiology.
The role of non-axisymmetry of magnetic flux rope in constraining solar eruptions
Authors: Zhong Ze , Guo Yang , Ding M. D.
Published: May 2021

Whether a solar eruption is successful or failed depends on the competition between different components of the Lorentz force exerting on the flux rope that drives the eruption. The present models only consider the strapping force generated by the background magnetic field perpendicular to the flux rope and the tension force generated by the field along the flux rope. Using the observed magnetic field on the photosphere as a time-matching bottom boundary, we perform a data-driven magnetohydrodynamic simulation for the 30 January 2015 confined eruption and successfully reproduce the observed solar flare without a coronal mass ejection. Here we show a Lorentz force component, resulting from the radial magnetic field or the non-axisymmetry of the flux rope, which can essentially constrain the eruption. Our finding contributes to the solar eruption model and presents the necessity of considering the topological structure of a flux rope when studying its eruption behaviour.
Distinct axial and lateral interactions within homologous filaments dictate the signaling specificity and order of the AIM2-ASC inflammasome
Authors: Matyszewski Mariusz , Zheng Weili , Lueck Jacob , Mazanek Zachary , Mohideen Naveen , Lau Albert Y. , Egelman Edward H. , Sohn Jungsan
Published: May 2021

Inflammasomes are filamentous signaling platforms integral to innate immunity. Currently, little is known about how these structurally similar filaments recognize and distinguish one another. A cryo-EM structure of the AIM2PYD filament reveals that the architecture of the upstream filament is essentially identical to that of the adaptor ASCPYD filament. In silico simulations using Rosetta and molecular dynamics followed by biochemical and cellular experiments consistently demonstrate that individual filaments assemble bidirectionally. By contrast, the recognition between AIM2 and ASC requires at least one to be oligomeric and occurs in a head-to-tail manner. Using in silico mutagenesis as a guide, we also identify specific axial and lateral interfaces that dictate the recognition and distinction between AIM2 and ASC filaments. Together, the results here provide a robust framework for delineating the signaling specificity and order of inflammasomes.
Water-oriented magnetic anisotropy transition
Authors: Su Sheng-Qun , Wu Shu-Qi , Hagihala Masato , Miao Ping , Tan Zhijian , Torii Shuki , Kamiyama Takashi , Xiao Tongtong , Wang Zhenxing , Ouyang Zhongwen , Miyazaki Yuji , Nakano Motohiro , Nakanishi Takumi , Li Jun-Qiu , Kanegawa Shinji , Sato Osamu
Published: May 2021

Water reorientation is essential in a wide range of chemical and biological processes. However, the effects of such reorientation through rotation around the metal–oxygen bond on the chemical and physical properties of the resulting complex are usually ignored. Most studies focus on the donor property of water as a recognized σ donor-type ligand rather than a participant in the π interaction. Although a theoretical approach to study water-rotation effects on the functionality of a complex has recently been conducted, it has not been experimentally demonstrated. In this study, we determine that the magnetic anisotropy of a Co(II) complex can be effectively controlled by the slight rotation of coordinating water ligands, which is achieved by a two-step structural phase transition. When the water molecule is rotated by 21.2 ± 0.2° around the Co–O bond, the directional magnetic susceptibility of the single crystal changes by approximately 30% along the a-axis due to the rotation of the magnetic anisotropy axis through the modification of the π interaction between cobalt(II) and the water ligand. The theoretical calculations further support the hypothesis that the reorientation of water molecules is a key factor contributing to the magnetic anisotropy transition of this complex.
Genes and pathways monotonically dysregulated during progression from normal through leukoplakia to gingivo-buccal oral cancer
Authors: Das Debodipta , Maitra Arindam , Panda Chinmay K. , Ghose Sandip , Roy Bidyut , Sarin Rajiv , Majumder Partha P.
Published: May 2021

Oral squamous cell carcinoma of the gingivo-buccal region (OSCC-GB) accounts for the highest cancer morbidity and mortality among men in India. It has been observed that about one-third of individuals with oral leukoplakia, a dysplastic precancerous lesion in the oral cavity, progress to oral cancer. We aimed to identify systematic transcriptomic changes as a normal tissue in the oral cavity progresses to frank OSCC-GB. Seventy-two OSCC-GB patients, from multiple hospitals, were recruited, and transcriptome analysis of tumor and adjacent normal tissue (of all patients) and adjacent leukoplakia tissue (of a subset of 25 unselected patients with concomitant leukoplakia) was performed. We have identified many differences in the transcriptomic profiles between OSCC-GB and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck regions. Compared to the normal/precancerous tissue, significant enrichment of ECM−receptor interaction, PI3K-Akt signaling, cytokine−cytokine receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and cell cycle pathways were observed in OSCC-GB. Using gene set enrichment analysis, we identified a profound role of interferon receptor signaling in tumor growth by activating immune evasion mechanisms. The role of tumor-infiltrating immune cells further supported the growth and immunosuppressive mechanism of tumor tissues. Some immune evasion genes—CD274, CD80, and IDO1—were found to be activated even in the precancerous tissue. Taken together, our findings provide a clear insight into the sequential genetic dysregulation associated with progression to oral cancer. This insight provides a window to the development of predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for gingivo-buccal oral cancer.
Macrophage morphological plasticity and migration is Rac signalling and MMP9 dependant
Authors: Travnickova Jana , Nhim Sandra , Abdellaoui Naoill , Djouad Farida , Nguyen-Chi Maï , Parmeggiani Andrea , Kissa Karima
Published: May 2021

In vitro, depending on extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture, macrophages migrate either in amoeboid or mesenchymal mode; while the first is a general trait of leukocytes, the latter is associated with tissue remodelling via Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs). To assess whether these stereotyped migrations could be also observed in a physiological context, we used the zebrafish embryo and monitored macrophage morphology, behaviour and capacity to mobilise haematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs), as a final functional readout. Morphometric analysis identified 4 different cell shapes. Live imaging revealed that macrophages successively adopt all four shapes as they migrate through ECM. Treatment with inhibitors of MMPs or Rac GTPase to abolish mesenchymal migration, suppresses both ECM degradation and HSPC mobilisation while differently affecting macrophage behaviour. This study depicts real time macrophage behaviour in a physiological context and reveals extreme reactivity of these cells constantly adapting and switching migratory shapes to achieve HSPCs proper mobilisation.
Scaffolding depth cues and perceptual learning in VR to train stereovision: a proof of concept pilot study
Authors: Godinez Angelica , Martín-González Santiago , Ibarrondo Oliver , Levi Dennis M.
Published: May 2021

Stereopsis is a valuable feature of human visual perception, which may be impaired or absent in amblyopia and/or strabismus but can be improved through perceptual learning (PL) and videogames. The development of consumer virtual reality (VR) may provide a useful tool for improving stereovision. We report a proof of concept study, especially useful for strabismic patients and/or those with reduced or null stereoacuity. Our novel VR PL strategy is based on a principled approach which included aligning and balancing the perceptual input to the two eyes, dichoptic tasks, exposure to large disparities, scaffolding depth cues and perception for action. We recruited ten adults with normal vision and ten with binocular impairments. Participants played two novel PL games (DartBoard and Halloween) using a VR-HMD. Each game consisted of three depth cue scaffolding conditions, starting with non-binocular and binocular cues to depth and ending with only binocular disparity. All stereo-anomalous participants improved in the game and most (9/10) showed transfer to clinical and psychophysical stereoacuity tests (mean stereoacuity changed from 569 to 296 arc seconds, P < 0.0001). Stereo-normal participants also showed in-game improvement, which transferred to psychophysical tests (mean stereoacuity changed from 23 to a ceiling value of 20 arc seconds, P = 0.001). We conclude that a VR PL approach based on depth cue scaffolding may provide a useful method for improving stereoacuity, and the in-game performance metrics may provide useful insights into principles for effective treatment of stereo anomalies.

This study was registered as a clinical trial on 04/05/2010 with the identifier NCT01115283 at ClinicalTrials.gov.
A comprehensive retrospective cohort study of the journey of B-cell lymphoma in Taiwan
Authors: Pei Sung-Nan , Wang Ming-Chung , Ma Ming-Chun , Kuo Ching-Yuan , Liao Chun-Kai , Qiu Hong , Rothwell Lee Anne , Liu Yanfang
Published: May 2021

Complete disease journey and risk factors for poor outcomes are needed to facilitate effectiveness evaluations of new therapies and clinical decision-making in B-cell Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL), particularly in Asia where such data are lacking. This retrospective cohort study used electronic medical records from a regional medical centre in southern Taiwan to follow-up 441 patients newly diagnosed with common B-NHL subtypes: Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (CLL/SLL), Marginal Zone Lymphoma (MZL), Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), and Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), between 01-Jan-2008 and 31-Dec-2013, until 31-Dec-2017. Treatment pathways were modelled using a Markov approach. Stage III/IV disease at diagnosis was frequent for patients with DLBCL, FL, MCL and WM. Hepatitis B surface antigen/hepatitis C virus seropositivity was 18.6%/12.3%. Clinical responses to 1st-line treatment were observed in 76.0% (DLBCL), 87.3% (FL), 86.0% (MZL), 60.0% (MCL), and 42.9% (WM) of patients. For DLBCL, disease control was achieved by ~ 50% after 1st-line, ~ 24% after 2nd-line, ~ 17% after 3rd-line. Patients with Stage III/IV DLBCL or age > 65 years at diagnosis had lower rates of active treatment, poorer disease control and higher mortality than patients with early stage disease or age ≤ 65 years. Disease flare < 6 months after 1st-line treatment was significantly associated with mortality. Despite good clinical response rates for some sub-types, survival remains poor. New treatments are needed to improve the outcome of B-NHL.
Stray light characterization with ultrafast time-of-flight imaging
Authors: Clermont L. , Uhring W. , Georges M.
Published: May 2021

Understanding stray light (SL) is a crucial aspect in the development of high-end optical instruments, for instance space telescopes. As it drives image quality, SL must be controlled by design and characterized experimentally. However, conventional SL characterization methods are limited as they do not provide information on its origins. The problem is complex due to the diversity of light interaction processes with surfaces, creating various SL contributors. Therefore, when SL level is higher than expected, it can be difficult to determine how to improve the system. We demonstrate a new approach, ultrafast time-of-flight SL characterization, where a pulsed laser source and a streak camera are used to record individually SL contributors which travel with a specific optical path length. Furthermore, the optical path length offers a means of identification to determine its origin. We demonstrate this method in an imaging system, measuring and identifying individual ghosts and scattering components. We then show how it can be used to reverse-engineer the instrument SL origins.
Generation of a chemical genetic model for JAK3
Authors: Remenyi Judit , Naik Rangeetha Jayaprakash , Wang Jinhua , Razsolkov Momchil , Verano Alyssa , Cai Quan , Tan Li , Toth Rachel , Raggett Samantha , Baillie Carla , Traynor Ryan , Hastie C. James , Gray Nathanael S. , Arthur J. Simon C.
Published: May 2021

Janus Kinases (JAKs) have emerged as an important drug target for the treatment of a number of immune disorders due to the central role that they play in cytokine signalling. 4 isoforms of JAKs exist in mammalian cells and the ideal isoform profile of a JAK inhibitor has been the subject of much debate. JAK3 has been proposed as an ideal target due to its expression being largely restricted to the immune system and its requirement for signalling by cytokine receptors using the common γ-chain. Unlike other JAKs, JAK3 possesses a cysteine in its ATP binding pocket and this has allowed the design of isoform selective covalent JAK3 inhibitors targeting this residue. We report here that mutating this cysteine to serine does not prevent JAK3 catalytic activity but does greatly increase the IC50 for covalent JAK3 inhibitors. Mice with a Cys905Ser knockin mutation in the endogenous JAK3 gene are viable and show no apparent welfare issues. Cells from these mice show normal STAT phosphorylation in response to JAK3 dependent cytokines but are resistant to the effects of covalent JAK3 inhibitors. These mice therefore provide a chemical-genetic model to study JAK3 function.
Physiological and transcriptomic analyses characterized high temperature stress response mechanisms in Sorbus pohuashanensis
Authors: Pei Xin , Zhang Yan , Zhu Lingyi , Zhao Dongxue , Lu Yizeng , Zheng Jian
Published: May 2021

Sorbus pohuashanensis (Hance) Hedl. is a Chinese native alpine tree species, but the problem of introducing S. pohuashanensis to low altitude areas has not been solved. In this study, we aimed to explore the molecular regulatory network of S. pohuashanensis in response to high-temperature stress using RNA-Sequencing technology and physiological and biochemical determination. Based on transcriptomic data, we obtained 1221 genes (752 up-regulated and 469 down-regulated) that were differentially expressed during 8 h 43℃ treatment and candidate genes were related to calcium signaling pathway, plant hormone signal transduction, heat shock factors, chaperones, ubiquitin mediated proteolysis, cell wall modification, ROS scavenging enzymes, detoxification and energy metabolism. The analysis of high temperature response at the physiological level and biochemical level were performed. The chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of leaf cells decreased, the content of osmotic regulators increased, and the activity of ROS scavenging enzymes decreased. The molecular regulatory network of S. pohuashanensis in response to high-temperature stress was preliminarily revealed in this study, which provides fundamental information improving introducing methods and discovering heat-tolerant genes involved in high-temperature stress in this species and provides a reference for other plants of the genus Sorbus.
The expansion of Acheulean hominins into the Nefud Desert of Arabia
Authors: Scerri Eleanor M. L. , Frouin Marine , Breeze Paul S. , Armitage Simon J. , Candy Ian , Groucutt Huw S. , Drake Nick , Parton Ash , White Tom S. , Alsharekh Abdullah M. , Petraglia Michael D.
Published: May 2021

The Arabian Peninsula is a critical geographic landmass situated between Africa and the rest of Eurasia. Climatic shifts across the Pleistocene periodically produced wetter conditions in Arabia, dramatically altering the spatial distribution of hominins both within and between continents. This is particularly true of Acheulean hominins, who appear to have been more tethered to water sources than Middle Palaeolithic hominins. However, until recently, chrono-cultural knowledge of the Acheulean of Arabia has been limited to one dated site, which indicated a hominin presence in Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 7–6. Here, we report the first dated Acheulean site from the Nefud Desert of northern Saudi Arabia, together with palaeoecological evidence for an associated deep, probably fresh-water, lake. The site of An Nasim features varied and often finely flaked façonnage handaxes. Luminescence ages together with geomorphological and palaeoecological evidence indicates that the associated artefacts date to MIS 9. At present, An Nasim represents the oldest yet documented Acheulean sites in Arabia, and adds to a growing picture of regionally diverse stone tool assemblages used by Middle Pleistocene hominins, and likely indicative of repeated population re-entry into the peninsula in wet ‘Green Arabia’ phases.
A discovery about the positional distribution pattern among candidate homologous pixels and its potential application in aerial multi-view image matching
Authors: Zhang Ka , Xiao Wen , Sheng Yehua , Wang Junshu , Zhang Shan , Ye Longjie
Published: May 2021

In aerial multi-view photogrammetry, whether there is a special positional distribution pattern among candidate homologous pixels of a matching pixel in the multi-view images? If so, can this positional pattern be used to precisely confirm the real homologous pixels? These problems have not been studied at present. Therefore, the study of the positional distribution pattern among candidate homologous pixels based on the adjustment theory in surveying is investigated in this paper. Firstly, the definition and computing method of pixel’s pseudo object-space coordinates are given, which can transform the problem of multi-view matching for confirming real homologous pixels into the problem of surveying adjustment for computing the pseudo object-space coordinates of the matching pixel. Secondly, according to the surveying adjustment theory, the standardized residual of each candidate homologous pixel of the matching pixel is figured out, and the positional distribution pattern among these candidate pixels is theoretically inferred utilizing the quantitative index of standardized residual. Lastly, actual aerial images acquired by different sensors are used to carry out experimental verification of the theoretical inference. Experimental results prove not only that there is a specific positional distribution pattern among candidate homologous pixels, but also that this positional distribution pattern can be used to develop a new object-side multi-view image matching method. The proposed study has an important reference value on resolving the defects of existing image-side multi-view matching methods at the mechanism level.
Maternal HIV infection is associated with distinct systemic cytokine profiles throughout pregnancy in South African women
Authors: Akoto Charlene , Norris Shane A. , Hemelaar Joris
Published: May 2021

Maternal HIV infection is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, but the mechanisms remain unknown. The course of pregnancy is regulated by immunological processes and HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) impact key immune mechanisms, which may disrupt the immune programme of pregnancy. We evaluated a broad range of systemic cytokines at each trimester of pregnancy in 56 women living with HIV (WLHIV) and 68 HIV-negative women, who were enrolled in a prospective pregnancy cohort study in Soweto, South Africa. The pro-inflammatory cytokine IP-10 was detected in each trimester in all WLHIV, which was significantly more than in HIV-negative women. The anti-viral cytokine IFNλ1 was detected more frequently in WLHIV, whereas IFNβ and IFNλ2/3 were detected more frequently in HIV-negative women. Th1 cytokines IL-12 and IL-12p70, Th2 cytokine IL-5, and Th17 cytokine IL-17A were detected more frequently in WLHIV throughout pregnancy. Il-6, IL-9, and IL-10 were more commonly detected in WLHIV in the first trimester. Trends of increased detection of Th1 (IL-2, IL-12p70), Th2 (IL-4, Il-5, Il-13) and Th17 (IL-17A, Il-17F, IL-21, IL-22) cytokines were associated with small-for-gestational-age babies. Our findings indicate that maternal HIV/ART is associated with distinct systemic cytokine profiles throughout pregnancy.
Analysis of STAG3 variants in Chinese non-obstructive azoospermia patients with germ cell maturation arrest
Authors: Liu Wen , Gao Xuan , Zhang Haobo , Liu Ran , Cao Yongzhi , Yu Ruimei , Fang Ge , Ma Jinlong , Zhao Shidou
Published: May 2021

STAG3 is essential for male meiosis and testis of male Stag3−/− mice shows the histopathological type of germ cell maturation arrest (MA). Whether variants of the STAG3 gene exist in Chinese idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients needs to be determined. We recruited 58 Chinese NOA men with MA who underwent testis biopsy and 192 fertile men as the control group. The 34 exons of the STAG3 gene were amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced. We identified eight novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including two missense SNPs (c.433T > C in exon2 and c.553A > G in exon3), three synonymous SNPs (c.539G > A, c.569C > T in exon3, and c.1176C > G in exon8), and three SNPs in introns. The allele and genotype frequencies of the novel and other SNPs have no significant differences between two groups. Our results indicated that variants in the coding sequence of the STAG3 gene were uncommon in NOA patients with MA in Chinese population. Future studies in large cohorts of different ethnic populations will be needed to determine the association between the STAG3 gene and NOA.
Age- and sex-specific reference intervals for blood urea nitrogen in Chinese general population
Authors: Liu Qingquan , Wang Yiru , Chen Zhi , Guo Xiaolin , Lv Yongman
Published: May 2021

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a nitrogenous end product of protein metabolism. This study aims to explore the age- and sex-specific distribution of BUN among healthy Chinese adults. A total of 24,006 BUN values from healthy adults (14,148 males and 9858 females) were included in the cross-sectional study. Males had a higher median BUN value compared to females (4.6 mmol/L vs. 4.1 mmol/L). BUN values showed a positive correlation with body mass index (BMI), cholesterol, and blood sugar (P < 0.0001). However, eGFR showed a negative correlation with the BUN reference value (P < 0.0001) in both sexes. Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that the positive associations of BUN levels and age were statistically significant after adjusting confounding factors (P < 0.001). Thus, the serum BUN values increased by 0.21 mmol/L for males and 0.282 mmol/L for females per 10 years. The BUN values corresponding to the 1st, 2.5th, 50th, 97.5th, and 99th percentiles for any specific age in both sex were also calculated. These results indicate that the serum BUN reference value is significantly affected by age and gender, and thus, its interpretation is age- and sex-dependent.
Correlation between the structure and skin permeability of compounds
Authors: Zeng Ruolan , Deng Jiyong , Dang Limin , Yu Xinliang
Published: May 2021

A three-descriptor quantitative structure–activity/toxicity relationship (QSAR/QSTR) model was developed for the skin permeability of a sufficiently large data set consisting of 274 compounds, by applying support vector machine (SVM) together with genetic algorithm. The optimal SVM model possesses the coefficient of determination R2 of 0.946 and root mean square (rms) error of 0.253 for the training set of 139 compounds; and a R2 of 0.872 and rms of 0.302 for the test set of 135 compounds. Compared with other models reported in the literature, our SVM model shows better statistical performance in a model that deals with more samples in the test set. Therefore, applying a SVM algorithm to develop a nonlinear QSAR model for skin permeability was achieved.
Analysis of hip joint loading during walking with different shoe types using instrumented total hip prostheses
Authors: Palmowski Y. , Popović S. , Kosack D. , Damm P.
Published: May 2021

Hip joint loads need careful consideration during postoperative physiotherapy after joint replacement. One factor influencing joint loads is the choice of footwear, but it remains unclear which footwear is favorable. The objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of footwear on hip joint loads in vivo. Instrumented hip endoprostheses were used for in vivo load measurements. The parameters resultant contact force (Fres), bending moment (Mbend) and torsional moment (Mtors) were evaluated during treadmill walking at 4 km/h with different shoe types. In general, footwear tended to increase hip joint loading, with the barefoot shoe having the least influence. Fres and Mbend were significantly increased during heel strike for all shoe types in comparison to barefoot walking, with everyday shoe (34.6%; p = 0.028 and 47%; p = 0.028, respectively) and men’s shoe (33.2%; p = 0.043 and 41.1%; p = 0.043, respectively) resulting in the highest changes. Mtors at AbsMax was increased by all shoes except for the barefoot shoe, with the highest changes for men’s shoe (+ 17.6%, p = 0.043) and the shoe with stiffened sole (+ 17.5%, p = 0.08). Shoes, especially those with stiff soles or elaborate cuishing and guiding elements, increase hip joint loads during walking. The influence on peak loads is higher for Mtors than for Fres and Mbend. For patients in which a reduction of hip joints loads is desired, e.g. during physiotherapy after recent surgery or to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, low profile shoes with a flexible sole may be preferred over shoes with a stiff sole or elaborate cushioning elements.
Type II collagen from squid cartilage mediated myogenic IGF-I and irisin to activate the Ihh/PThrp and Wnt/β-catenin pathways to promote fracture healing in mice
Authors: Li Zhuo , Tian Yingying , Zhang Lei , Zhang Tianqi , Wang Peng , Wang Jingfeng
Published: May 2021

Fractures are the most common large-organ, traumatic injury in humans.
Comprehensive understanding of the roles of water molecules in aqueous Zn-ion batteries: from electrolytes to electrode materials
Authors: Li Ming , Li Zilan , Wang Xuanpeng , Meng Jiashen , Liu Xiong , Wu Buke , Han Chunhua , Mai Liqiang
Published: May 2021

This review summarizes the influences of water molecules during the energy storage process from the perspectives of the electrolyte, Zn anode, and cathode materials, including the basic theory, modification methods, and practical applications.
Highly efficient transverse thermoelectric devices with Re4Si7 crystals
Authors: Scudder Michael R. , He Bin , Wang Yaxian , Rai Akash , Cahill David G. , Windl Wolfgang , Heremans Joseph P. , Goldberger Joshua E.
Published: May 2021

The viability and advantages of transverse thermoelectric generators over longitudinal generators have been established using single crystal Re4Si7-based devices, showing efficiencies comparable to the best commercially-available modules.
Potential enantioselectivity of the hydrolysation and photolysation of the chiral agrochemical penthiopyrad in aquatic environments
Authors: Yang Guangqian , Liu Zhengyi , Lan Tingting , Dou Li , Zhang Kankan
Published: May 2021

A liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and applied for the investigation of penthiopyrad photolysation and hydrolysation in different aqueous solutions, and the potential enantioselectivity of this chiral fungicide was further assessed.
All-boron planar ferromagnetic structures: from clusters to monolayers
Authors: He Chang-Chun , Xu Shao-Gang , Zhao Yu-Jun , Xu Hu , Yang Xiao-Bao
Published: May 2021

Ferromagnetism in all-boron planar clusters is revealed based on high-throughput first-principles calculations.
High-sorption terpyridine–graphene oxide hybrid for the efficient removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater
Authors: Pakulski Dawid , Gorczyński Adam , Marcinkowski Dawid , Czepa Włodzimierz , Chudziak Tomasz , Witomska Samanta , Nishina Yuta , Patroniak Violetta , Ciesielski Artur , Samorì Paolo
Published: May 2021

A novel sorption graphene-based hybrid materials were developed to enable high-performance adsorption of heavy metal ions including Ni(ii), Co(ii) and Zn(ii).
Photocatalyzed intermolecular amination for the synthesis of hydrazonamides
Authors: Guo Wei , Cai Liuhuan , Xie Zhen , Mei Weijie , Liu Gongping , Deng Ling , Zhuo Xiaoya , Zhong Yumei , Zou Xiaoying , Zheng Lvyin , Fan Xiaolin
Published: May 2021

A photocatalyzed intermolecular amination strategy for the synthesis of hydrazonamides is reported by a multi-component reaction of β-ketonitriles with N,N-disubstituted hydrazines.
Synergy ascension of SnS/MoS2 binary metal sulfides on initial coulombic efficiency and stable capacity for lithium storage
Authors: Pan Kai , Sun Yanna , He Xingcun , Lai Feiyan , Wang Hongqiang , Liang Libo , Li Qingyu , Zhang Xiaohui , Ji Hongbing
Published: May 2021

Binary metal sulfides of SnS and MoS2 interpenetrated in carbon sheets achieve high initial coulombic efficiency and superior capacity retention.
Exploring color tunable emission characteristics of Eu3+-doped La2(MoO4)3 phosphors in the glass–ceramic form
Authors: Sahu Manjulata , Phatak Nimai , Saxena M. K.
Published: May 2021

The glass–ceramic Eu-LMO-1050 is more suitable as a red-color-emitting phosphor material than the ceramic Eu-LMO-750. Further, Eu-LMO-1050 can overcome the problems related to the phosphor/silicone composite in commercial LEDs.
High performance organic light-emitting diodes employing ITO-free and flexible TiOx/Ag/Al:ZnO electrodes
Authors: Kinner Lukas , Dimopoulos Theodoros , Ligorio Giovanni , List-Kratochvil Emil J. W. , Hermerschmidt Felix
Published: May 2021

A flexible ITO-free structure based on nano-engineered transparent TiOx/Ag/Al:ZnO electrodes is used for the first time in solution-processed OLEDs.
Selecting a stable solid form of remdesivir using microcrystal electron diffraction and crystal structure prediction
Authors: Sekharan Sivakumar , Liu Xuetao , Yang Zhuocen , Liu Xiang , Deng Li , Ruan Shigang , Abramov Yuriy , Sun GuangXu , Li Sizhu , Zhou Tian , Shi Baime , Zeng Qun , Zeng Qiao , Chang Chao , Jin Yingdi , Shi Xuekun
Published: May 2021

Combining microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) and a cloud-based and artificial intelligence implemented crystal structure prediction (CSP) platform to support selection of a stable solid form of remdesivir in quick time.
Probe metal binding mode of imine covalent organic frameworks: cycloiridation for (photo)catalytic hydrogen evolution from formate
Authors: Hu Jiyun , Mehrabi Hamed , Meng Yin-Shan , Taylor Maddison , Zhan Jin-Hui , Yan Qigeng , Benamara Mourad , Coridan Robert H. , Beyzavi Hudson
Published: May 2021

This study describes cyclometallation as a new metal binding mode for imine-based COFs. The iridacycle decorated COF could be used for catalytic hydrogen evolution from aqueous formate solution with high stability and high efficacy.
Elasticity-oriented design of solid-state batteries: challenges and perspectives
Authors: Ren Yuxun , Hatzell Kelsey B.
Published: May 2021

Engineering energy dense electrodes (e.g.lithium metal, conversion cathodes,etc.) with solid electrolytes is important for enhancing the practical energy density of solid-state batteries.
Colocalization of light harvesting and catalytic units in a ‘soft’ coordination polymer hydrogel toward visible-light driven photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Verma Parul , Singh Ashish , Rahimi Faruk Ahamed , Maji Tapas Kumar
Published: May 2021

An anthracene based coordination polymer gel (CPG) material has been prepared which acted as a stable visible light driven photocatalyst without adding any co-catalyst for hydrogen evolution from water with the maximum rate of 0.97 mmol g−1 h−1.
Enhanced transdermal efficiency of curcumin-loaded peptide-modified liposomes for highly effective antipsoriatic therapy
Authors: Yu Fan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yang Chen , Li Fenfen , Qiu Bensheng , Ding Weiping
Published: May 2021

The peptide TD that is conjugated to curcumin-loaded liposomes promotes the transdermal delivery and the intracellular uptake of curcumin, and thus the curcumin-loaded peptide-modified liposomes effectively enhance the inhibition of psoriasis.
Kinetic control of chirality and circularly polarized luminescence in G-quartet materials
Authors: Chen Jingqi , Gao Chenqi , Zhang Zhiwei , Liu Xiaowei , Chen Yingying , Feng Lingyan
Published: May 2021

Here, we found that the handedness and CPL properties of G-quartet materials highly depends on its formation kinetics.
Nanoparticle-mediated surfactant therapy in patients with severe COVID-19: a perspective
Authors: Wu You , Li Xiaosi , Gan Yu , Zhao Chao
Published: May 2021

Nanoparticle-mediated surfactant therapy in patients with severe COVID-19.
Corannulene-based donor–acceptor-type conjugated polymers with electrochromic properties
Authors: Huang Jing-Ju , Lin Hsing-An , Chen Chi , Tang Po-Wen , Luo Shyh-Chyang
Published: May 2021

Corannulene-based monomers with donor and acceptor moieties are synthesized and electropolymerized to form π-conjugated polymers. These corannulene-based conjugated polymers display reversible electrochromic and electrofluorescence switching.
La bonification du crédit favorise-t-elle vraiment le financement des exploitations agricoles ? Cas de la wilaya de Laghouat en Algérie
Authors: Oubraham Farid , Bédrani Slimane , Belhouadjeb Fathi Abdellatif
Published: May 2021

Les exploitations agricoles algériennes sont confrontées à d’importantes difficultés de financement qui limitent considérablement leur capacité de production. Leur difficulté d’accès au crédit bancaire est due en grande partie à l’indisponibilité d’informations fiables sur leur situation financière et à leur faible taux de remboursement. Pour inverser la tendance et faciliter l’accès des exploitants agricoles au crédit bancaire, les pouvoirs publics ont revisité l’usage de la bonification des taux d’intérêts en mettant en place pour eux en 2011 un crédit d’investissement totalement bonifié appelé Ettahadi. Cependant, l’intervention publique dans le système de crédit, à travers la bonification, n’a eu qu’un très faible effet sur la demande de financement et un effet mitigé sur l’accès effectif au crédit. Les résultats d’une enquête menée auprès d’un échantillon représentatif d’agriculteurs de la wilaya de Laghouat ainsi que l’analyse des données de la Banque de l’agriculture et du développement rural montrent que la gestion du risque de crédit et les objectifs de rentabilité ont poussé cette banque publique à adopter une forme organisationnelle qui limite la distribution de crédit.
Investigation of high-performance perovskite nanocrystals for inkjet-printed color conversion layers with superior color purity
Authors: Lee Sang Yoon , Lee Geonho , Kim Do Yeob , Jang Seong Hyun , Choi In , Park Jongwook , Park Hyung-Ki , Jung Jae Woong , Cho Kwan Hyun , Choi Jun
Published: May 2021

We synthesized cesium lead-halide perovskite colloidal nanocrystals using the hot injection method for wide-color-gamut low-cost displays. An efficient surface defect passivation technique was applied to further improve the optical performance of the green and red perovskite nanocrystals. The prepared perovskite nanocrystal solutions were formulated into inkjet printable homogeneous inks and uniformly printed on the substrate with appropriate surface control. They formed the wide-color-gamut color conversion layers of quantum dot organic light-emitting diode displays. We confirmed the excellent photophysical properties of the synthesized green/red perovskite nanocrystals and the inkjet printed color conversion layers with a photoluminescence quantum yield of 99.7%/96.2% and a wide color reproduction range of 117%.
Impinging liquid jets on flat fluid interfaces
Authors: Patrascu C , Neagu F , Balan C
Published: May 2021

We study the impact of a liquid jet on a liquid bath in the presence of an external Newtonian liquid. Attention is given to the impact zone where we find a stationary wave-like behavior of the liquid column. We unravel new dynamics, seen at high acquisition frame rates, of the instability of the liquid column at the critical distance between the capillary tip and the surface of the fluid bath. A dominant critical frequency of oscillation is found. Particle Image Velocimetry measurements of the velocity field, in the vicinity of the impact zone, are also performed, with emphasis on the vortex structure that develops near the flat interface.
Review of the existing state of the art regarding the use of CFD and human thermophysiological models for the vehicular comfort assessment
Authors: Jamin A , Bosschaerts W , Nastase I , Janssens B
Published: May 2021

The aim of this article is to present a comprehensive review of the state of the art regarding the use of the human thermophysiological model into computational fluid dynamics and the coupling of these two techniques. This article will focus on the modelling of the car cabin thermal environment, the integration of virtual thermal manikins and the thermal comfort assessment. Though the complexity of the car cabin geometry, the inhomogeneous air temperature/velocity fields, and transient conditions a CFD-simulation is a very powerful tool providing detailed results for a given sufficient computing power. Understanding the human body’s thermal aspects and quantifying cabin’s parameters are essential for a reliable computation. Virtual thermal manikins have become an important asset in numerical simulation, providing accurate predictions of human thermal sensation. For vehicular thermal comfort assessment, this article reviews the relevant thermal comfort indices. From 70’s, several human thermophysiological models have been developed based on the human energy balance equation to achieve realistic human thermal responses. This article introduces the most common human thermophysiological models classifies them into one-node, two-node, multi-node and multi-element thermal models. Today, in automotive R&D, the coupling technique is became a powerful tool for optimizing and evaluating the passenger’s thermal comfort.
Small scale measurement of artificial smoke optical properties
Authors: Burlacu D , Georgescu A M , Trache Ş N
Published: May 2021

For the assessment of the quality and behavior of building materials in the case of fire, standard testing methods which classify these products based on their performance have been developed. This testing covers among other parameters the smoke emission of the materials in case of fire. The testing methods require various quantities of the products in order to provide accurate results, hence they can rarely be used in the research and development phase of a product. Standard tests that are used to classify building materials, usually employ the principle of light intensity attenuation for the determination of information regarding the smoke emission of the product. This paper presents the 1:10 and 1:20 scale reduction of an experiment used to determine the optical properties of artificially generated smoke based on the same principle of light attenuation. The scale reduction was carried out by means of proportionally reducing each of the test compartment dimensions and the amount of smoke fluid used. For the assessment of the scale reduction accuracy, the extinction area of smoke, which is a parameter that can correlate the light intensity values measured in the different experimental scales was used as a benchmark.
The (r)evolution of wind energy systems in Romania: state-of-the-art, new trends and challenges
Authors: Chiulan Elena-Alexandra , Anton Anton
Published: May 2021

After decades of development, one of the most mature renewable energy technologies is recognized to be wind energy. Compared to other renewable energy sources the wind potential that can be used to produce electricity is much higher. Currently, the conversion of wind energy into electricity has several advantages, among which can be mentioned the following: “clean” energy source, renewable energy source, low costs per unit of electricity produced. Thus, the progress of future technological innovations must lead to the achievement of wind turbines that are more efficient, more robust, and less expensive than actual technology. The aim of this work is to provide an overview of the Global, European and, especially, Romanian situation of the wind energy market. Moreover, are presented aspects related to innovative constructive solutions for wind turbines used to capture wind energy in areas where wind potential is low.
Wind tunnel modelling of a residential ensemble in a high rise building urban area
Authors: Florea Iustina Bianca , Iagar Oana Alexandra , Vladut Cezar Alexandru , Cosoiu Costin Ioan , Georgescu Andrei Mugur , Hasegan Liviu Valer , Degeratu Mircea
Published: May 2021

This paper refers to wind tunnel testing of a residential complex located in a crowded urban area in the vicinity of some tall buildings. Due to the agglomeration of certain urban areas, the erection of new tall buildings becomes increasingly challenging, both in terms of location finding and structural load assessment. For a tall building located in such an area, the complexity of the structural challenges is increased by the loads resulting from the wind action. Usually the wind velocity profile from which these loads result is influenced by the roughness height factor associated with the urban areas surrounding the building. In the vicinity of other tall buildings, the interinfluences between the buildings must also be ascertained. Following the request of the project developer, the Technical University of Civil Engineering Bucharest through the Aerodynamics and Wind Engineering Laboratory “Constantin Iamandi” performed wind tunnel static tests of the residential complex using two different roughness heights above the floor of the wind tunnel (corresponding to different terrain categories with respect to wind orientation) and adding models of the existing adjacent tall buildings for some of the wind directions. The paper presents test methodologies used, the wind tunnel set-up, the residential complex static model and obtained results.
Renewable energy sources for industrial consumers - a past to present analysis of technical and financial efficiency
Authors: Delcea A , Bitir-Istrate I
Published: May 2021

Renewable energy sources represent one of the solutions to mitigate the impact energy production, transportation and use have on climate change. Solar heat for industrial processes is an emerging solution that has yet to reach its true potential. When an industrial consumer is considering installing an energy source on site, a technical and financial analysis is performed to find the optimal solution. However, the analysis is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty due to the assumptions made, that influence the final decision. Hence, the profitability of renewable energy-based solutions can either be overvalued or undervalued when compared to a fossil fuel-based solution. In this paper, the solar heat potential for the industry in Romania is calculated. Then, a past to present analysis is performed in order to assess the real benefits an industrial energy consumer would have gained had he considered a few years back to cover a fraction of its heat consumption with a solar heat source, by using the real historic data regarding the energy market evolution. The results show that subsidies are necessary in order to make solar heating profitable and more appealing for industrial applications in the market conditions from Romania.
Experimental research on increasing the static torque for a small Savonius rotor of helical type
Authors: Ciocănea A , Budea S , Simionescu Ş M , Lambescu O
Published: May 2021

A small Savonius wind turbine of helical type was tested in an open jet wind facility for identifying the optimum position of the rotor blades aiming the maximization of static torque. The two blades of the wind turbine of U shape were twisted up to 1800 from bottom to top and three values for blade overlap were considered i.e. 0.35, 0.2 and 0.0. The turbine torque was measured for no load conditions and wind velocities between 2-8 m/s. In the same time the air flow through Savonius rotor was observed by using a visualization setup aiming to identify the correlation between the torque and the flow pattern inside the returning blade at rotating angles where the torque has highest values. Best results for the torque coefficient of 0.72 and power coefficient of 0.265 were obtained at a wind velocity of 5.8 m/s and low overlap ratio of 0.2. By measuring the overall torque of the rotor for each case study, the positive effect of pressure recovery was explained as a result of air flow through the blade overlap from the concave side of the advancing blade to concave side of the returning blade for a certain interval of the rotating angle a = 50-60°.