bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychedelic drug use and schizotypy in young adults
Authors: Lebedev Alexander V. , Acar K. , Garzón B. , Almeida R. , Råback J. , Åberg A. , Martinsson S. , Olsson A. , Louzolo A. , Pärnamets P. , Lövden M. , Atlas L. , Ingvar Martin , Petrovic P.
Published: July 2021

Despite recently resurrected scientific interest in classical psychedelics, few studies have focused on potential harms associated with abuse of these substances. In particular, the link between psychedelic use and psychotic symptoms has been debated while no conclusive evidence has been presented. Here, we studied an adult population (n = 1032) with a special focus on young (18–35 years) and healthy individuals (n = 701) to evaluate the association of psychedelic drug use with schizotypy and evidence integration impairment typically observed in psychosis-spectrum disorders. Experimental behavioural testing was performed in a subsample of the subjects (n = 39). We observed higher schizotypy scores in psychedelic users in the total sample. However, the effect size was notably small and only marginally significant when considering young and healthy subjects (Cohen’s d = 0.13). Controlling for concomitant drug use, none of our analyses found significant associations between psychedelic use and schizotypal traits. Results from experimental testing showed that total exposure to psychedelics (frequency and temporal proximity of use) was associated with better evidence integration (Cohen’s d = 0.13) and a higher sensitivity of fear responses (Cohen’s d = 1.05) to the effects instructed knowledge in a reversal aversive learning task modelled computationally with skin conductance response and pupillometry. This effect was present even when controlling for demographics and concomitant drug use. On a group level, however, only difference in sensitivity of fear responses to instructed knowledge reached statistical significance. Taken together, our findings suggest that psychedelic drug use is only weakly associated with psychosis-like symptoms, which, in turn, is to a large extent explained by psychiatric comorbidities and use of other psychoactive substances. Our results also suggest that psychedelics may have an effect on flexibility of evidence integration and aversive learning processes, that may be linked to recently suggested therapeutic effects of psychedelic drugs in non-psychotic psychiatric populations.
Effects of high-intensity training on the quality of life of cancer patients and survivors: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Lavín-Pérez Ana Myriam , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Mayo Xián , Liguori Gary , Humphreys Liam , Copeland Robert James , Jiménez Alfonso
Published: July 2021

Cancer and associated medical treatments affect patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) by decreasing functional dimensions of physical, social, cognitive, and emotional well-being, while increasing short and late-term symptoms. Exercise, however, is demonstrated to be a useful therapy to improve cancer patients' and survivors’ HRQoL, yet the effectiveness of high-intensity training (HIT) exercise is uncertain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to analyse the effects of HIT on HRQoL dimensions in cancer patients and survivors as well as evaluate the optimal prescription of HIT. The search followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA) and examined Web of Science and PubMed (Medline) databases. Data were analysed utilizing Review Manager Software. Twenty-two articles were included in the systematic review and 17 in the meta-analysis. Results showed HIT improved global quality of life, physical functioning, role functioning, social functioning, cognitive functioning, fatigue, pain, dyspnea, and insomnia, compared to an inactive control group, yet no differences were found between HIT and low to moderate-intensity exercise interventions. Particular improvements in HRQoL were observed during cancer treatment and with a training duration of more than eight weeks, a frequency of 2 days/week, and a volume of at least 120 min/week, including 15 min or more of HIT. Our findings whilst encouraging, highlight the infancy of the extant evidence base for the role of HIT in the HRQoL of cancer patients and survivors.
Daily steps and healthcare costs in Japanese communities
Authors: Okamoto Shohei , Kamimura Kazuki , Shiraishi Kenichi , Sumita Kazuto , Komamura Kohei , Tsukao Akiko , Chijiki Shoko , Kuno Shinya
Published: July 2021

Physical inactivity is a pandemic that requires intensive, usually costly efforts for risk reduction of related chronic diseases. Nevertheless, it is challenging to determine the effectiveness of physical activity in healthcare cost reduction based on existing literature. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of physical activity (daily steps) on healthcare costs utilising the data retrieved from a health promotion project (the e-wellness Project, held in three municipalities in Japan). Evaluating the effects of daily steps, measured by pedometers, on healthcare costs by a quasi-experimental approach among participants aged 40–75 years (about 4000 person-years of observation, between 2009 and 2013), we found that a one-step-increase in the annual average daily step reduced outpatient healthcare costs by 16.26 JPY (≒ 0.11 GBD) in the short run. Based on the assumption of a dynamic relationship between the health statuses in multiple years, the long-run effects of daily steps on healthcare costs were estimated at 28.24 JPY (≒ 0.20 GBD). We determined the health benefits of walking in a sample of middle-aged and older Japanese adults by our findings that an increase in step counts reduced healthcare costs.
Identification and physical characterization of a spontaneous mutation of the tobacco mosaic virus in the laboratory environment
Authors: Lumata Jenica L. , Ball Darby , Shahrivarkevishahi Arezoo , Luzuriaga Michael A. , Herbert Fabian C. , Brohlin Olivia , Lee Hamilton , Hagge Laurel M. , D’Arcy Sheena , Gassensmith Jeremiah J.
Published: July 2021

Virus-like particles are an emerging class of nano-biotechnology with the Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) having found a wide range of applications in imaging, drug delivery, and vaccine development. TMV is typically produced in planta, and, as an RNA virus, is highly susceptible to natural mutation that may impact its properties. Over the course of 2 years, from 2018 until 2020, our laboratory followed a spontaneous point mutation in the TMV coat protein—first observed as a 30 Da difference in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI–MS). The mutation would have been difficult to notice by electrophoretic mobility in agarose or SDS-PAGE and does not alter viral morphology as assessed by transmission electron microscopy. The mutation responsible for the 30 Da difference between the wild-type (wTMV) and mutant (mTMV) coat proteins was identified by a bottom-up proteomic approach as a change from glycine to serine at position 155 based on collision-induced dissociation data. Since residue 155 is located on the outer surface of the TMV rod, it is feasible that the mutation alters TMV surface chemistry. However, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays found no difference in binding between mTMV and wTMV. Functionalization of a nearby residue, tyrosine 139, with diazonium salt, also appears unaffected. Overall, this study highlights the necessity of standard workflows to quality-control viral stocks. We suggest that ESI–MS is a straightforward and low-cost way to identify emerging mutants in coat proteins.
Manipulation of the Tyrosinase gene permits improved CRISPR/Cas editing and neural imaging in cichlid fish
Authors: Li Cheng-Yu , Steighner Joshua R. , Sweatt Garrett , Thiele Tod R. , Juntti Scott A.
Published: July 2021

Direct tests of gene function have historically been performed in a limited number of model organisms. The CRISPR/Cas system is species-agnostic, offering the ability to manipulate genes in a range of models, enabling insights into evolution, development, and physiology. Astatotilapia burtoni, a cichlid fish from the rivers and shoreline around Lake Tanganyika, has been extensively studied in the laboratory to understand evolution and the neural control of behavior. Here we develop protocols for the creation of CRISPR-edited cichlids and create a broadly useful mutant line. By manipulating the Tyrosinase gene, which is necessary for eumelanin pigment production, we describe a fast and reliable approach to quantify and optimize gene editing efficiency. Tyrosinase mutants also remove a major obstruction to imaging, enabling visualization of subdermal structures and fluorophores in situ. These protocols will facilitate broad application of CRISPR/Cas9 to studies of cichlids as well as other non-traditional model aquatic species.
Adenosine deaminase modulates metabolic remodeling and orchestrates joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bhagavatham Sai Krishna Srimadh , Khanchandani Prakash , Kannan Vishnu , Potikuri Damodaram , Sridharan Divya , Pulukool Sujith Kumar , Naik Ashwin Ashok , Dandamudi Rajesh Babu , Divi Sai Mangala , Pargaonkar Ashish , Ray Rahul , Santha Saibharath Simha Reddy , Seshagiri Polani B. , Narasimhan K. , Gumdal Narsimulu , Sivaramakrishnan Venketesh
Published: July 2021

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease associated with inflammation and joint remodeling. Adenosine deaminase (ADA), a risk factor in RA, degrades adenosine, an anti-inflammatory molecule, resulting in an inflammatory bias. We present an integrative analysis of clinical data, cytokines, serum metabolomics in RA patients and mechanistic studies on ADA-mediated effects on in vitro cell culture models. ADA activity differentiated patients into low and high ADA sets. The levels of the cytokines TNFα, IFNγ, IL-10, TGFβ and sRANKL were elevated in RA and more pronounced in high ADA sets. Serum metabolomic analysis shows altered metabolic pathways in RA which were distinct between low and high ADA sets. Comparative analysis with previous studies shows similar pathways are modulated by DMARDs and biologics. Random forest analysis distinguished RA from control by methyl-histidine and hydroxyisocaproic acid, while hexose-phosphate and fructose-6-phosphate distinguished high ADA from low ADA. The deregulated metabolic pathways of High ADA datasets significantly overlapped with high ADA expressing PBMCs GEO transcriptomics dataset. ADA induced the death of chondrocytes, synoviocyte proliferation, both inflammation in macrophages and their differentiation into osteoclasts and impaired differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to osteoblasts and mineralization. PBMCs expressing elevated ADA had increased expression of cytokines and P2 receptors compared to synovial macrophages which has low expression of ADA. Our data demonstrates increased cytokine levels and distinct metabolic signatures of RA based on the ADA activity, suggests an important role for ADA in the pathophysiology of RA joints and as a potential marker and therapeutic target in RA patients.
Preexisting heart failure with reduced ejection fraction attenuates renal fibrosis after ischemia reperfusion via sympathetic activation
Authors: Matsuura Ryo , Yamashita Tetsushi , Hayase Naoki , Hamasaki Yoshifumi , Noiri Eisei , Numata Genri , Takimoto Eiki , Nangaku Masaomi , Doi Kent
Published: July 2021

Although chronic heart failure is clinically associated with acute kidney injury (AKI), the precise mechanism that connects kidney and heart remains unknown. Here, we elucidate the effect of pre-existing heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) on kidney via sympathetic activity, using the combining models of transverse aortic constriction (TAC) and unilateral renal ischemia reperfusion (IR). The evaluation of acute (24 h) and chronic (2 weeks) phases of renal injury following IR 8 weeks after TAC in C57BL/6 mice revealed that the development of renal fibrosis in chronic phase was significantly attenuated in TAC mice, but not in non-TAC mice, whereas no impact of pre-existing heart failure was observed in acute phase of renal IR. Expression of transforming growth factor-β, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and macrophage infiltration were significantly reduced in TAC mice. Lastly, to investigate the effect of sympathetic nerve activity, we performed renal sympathetic denervation two days prior to renal IR, which abrogated attenuation of renal fibrosis in TAC mice. Collectively, we demonstrate the protective effect of pre-existing HFrEF on long-term renal ischemic injury. Renal sympathetic nerve may contribute to this protection; however, further studies are needed to fully clarify the comprehensive mechanisms associated with attenuated renal fibrosis and pre-existing HFrEF.
Induction of cryptic pre-mRNA splice-switching by antisense oligonucleotides
Authors: Ham Kristin A. , Keegan Niall P. , McIntosh Craig S. , Aung-Htut May T. , Zaw Khine , Greer Kane , Fletcher Sue , Wilton Steve D.
Published: July 2021

Antisense oligomers (AOs) are increasingly being used to modulate RNA splicing in live cells, both for research and for the development of therapeutics. While the most common intended effect of these AOs is to induce skipping of whole exons, rare examples are emerging of AOs that induce skipping of only part of an exon, through activation of an internal cryptic splice site. In this report, we examined seven AO-induced cryptic splice sites in six genes. Five of these cryptic splice sites were discovered through our own experiments, and two originated from other published reports. We modelled the predicted effects of AO binding on the secondary structure of each of the RNA targets, and how these alterations would in turn affect the accessibility of the RNA to splice factors. We observed that a common predicted effect of AO binding was disruption of the exon definition signal within the exon’s excluded segment.
Laboratory evolution of Mycobacterium on agar plates for analysis of resistance acquisition and drug sensitivity profiles
Authors: Maeda Tomoya , Kawada Masako , Sakata Natsue , Kotani Hazuki , Furusawa Chikara
Published: July 2021

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is a growing public health problem. There is an urgent need for information regarding cross-resistance and collateral sensitivity relationships among drugs and the genetic determinants of anti-TB drug resistance for developing strategies to suppress the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens. To identify mutations that confer resistance to anti-TB drugs in Mycobacterium species, we performed the laboratory evolution of nonpathogenic Mycobacterium smegmatis, which is closely related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, against ten anti-TB drugs. Next, we performed whole-genome sequencing and quantified the resistance profiles of each drug-resistant strain against 24 drugs. We identified the genes with novel meropenem (MP) and linezolid (LZD) resistance-conferring mutation, which also have orthologs, in M. tuberculosis H37Rv. Among the 240 possible drug combinations, we identified 24 pairs that confer cross-resistance and 18 pairs that confer collateral sensitivity. The acquisition of bedaquiline or linezolid resistance resulted in collateral sensitivity to several drugs, while the acquisition of MP resistance led to multidrug resistance. The MP-evolved strains showed cross-resistance to rifampicin and clarithromycin owing to the acquisition of a mutation in the intergenic region of the Rv2864c ortholog, which encodes a penicillin-binding protein, at an early stage. These results provide a new insight to tackle drug-resistant TB.
Signal envelope and speech intelligibility differentially impact auditory motion perception
Authors: Warnecke Michaela , Litovsky Ruth Y.
Published: July 2021

Our acoustic environment contains a plethora of complex sounds that are often in motion. To gauge approaching danger and communicate effectively, listeners need to localize and identify sounds, which includes determining sound motion. This study addresses which acoustic cues impact listeners’ ability to determine sound motion. Signal envelope (ENV) cues are implicated in both sound motion tracking and stimulus intelligibility, suggesting that these processes could be competing for sound processing resources. We created auditory chimaera from speech and noise stimuli and varied the number of frequency bands, effectively manipulating speech intelligibility. Normal-hearing adults were presented with stationary or moving chimaeras and reported perceived sound motion and content. Results show that sensitivity to sound motion is not affected by speech intelligibility, but shows a clear difference for original noise and speech stimuli. Further, acoustic chimaera with speech-like ENVs which had intelligible content induced a strong bias in listeners to report sounds as stationary. Increasing stimulus intelligibility systematically increased that bias and removing intelligible content reduced it, suggesting that sound content may be prioritized over sound motion. These findings suggest that sound motion processing in the auditory system can be biased by acoustic parameters related to speech intelligibility.
Effects of in vivo repositioning of slim modiolar electrodes on electrical thresholds and speech perception
Authors: Lee Sang-Yeon , Kim Young Seok , Jo Hyung Dong , Kim Yoonjoong , Carandang Marge , Huh Gene , Choi Byung Yoon
Published: July 2021

The slim modiolar electrode has been reported to ensure better modiolar proximity than previous conventional perimodiolar electrodes and consistently high scala tympani localization. Nonetheless, variability in modiolar proximity exists even among slim modiolar electrodes, still leaving room for further improvement of modiolar proximity, which may positively affect functional outcomes. Given this, the pull-back maneuver was reported to increase the modiolar proximity of slim modiolar electrodes in a cadaveric study, but in vivo repositioning effects remain to be established. Here we identified that the pull-back maneuver led to better modiolar proximity than conventional insertion while maintaining a similar angular insertion depth. Notably, the reduced electrode-modiolus distance from the pull-back maneuver was associated with significantly lower impedances across electrodes postoperatively as well as reduced intraoperative electrophysiological thresholds than conventional insertion. Among adult cochlear implant recipients, this maneuver resulted in significantly better sentence recognition scores at three months postoperatively when compared to those with a conventional insertion; however, this benefit was not observed at later intervals. Collectively, slim modiolar electrodes with the pull-back maneuver further enhance the modiolar proximity, possibly leading to better open-set sentence recognition, at least in the early postoperative stage.
Response of deep soil moisture to different vegetation types in the Loess Plateau of northern Shannxi, China
Authors: Gou Qingping , Zhu Qingke
Published: July 2021

Deep soil moisture is a highly important source of water for vegetation in the semiarid Loess Plateau of China, vegetation restoration reduced the deep soil moisture, but how to better quantify the impact of vegetation restoration on deep soil moisture is lack of certain understanding. To explore the impact exerted by different types of vegetation on deep layers of the soil moisture, the 0–10 m soil moisture content profile was measured before and after the rainy season in Armeniaca sibirica, Robinia pseudoacacia, Populus simonii, Pinus tabuliformis, Hippophae rhamnoides and in natural grassland in Wuqi County in Shannxi Province. These results showed that the highest soil moisture in the shallow layers (0–200 cm) was exhibited in the P. simonii forest, which was followed by that in the natural grassland. Both of these results were significantly higher than that those of the A. sibirica, P. tabuliformis, H. rhamnoides and R. pseudoacacia forests. The soil moisture in the deep layer (200–1000 cm) of the natural grassland was significantly higher than that of the other vegetation types. The annual precipitation that recharges the depth of soil moisture was the highest in natural grassland and the lowest in P. simonii. The inter-annual soil moisture replenishment is primarily affected by rainfall and vegetation types. Compared with the natural grassland, the CSWSD (the comparison of the soil moisture storage deficit) of different vegetation types varies. In the shallow soil layer, P. simonii is the lowest, and R. pseudoacacia is the highest. In the deep soil layer, R. pseudoacacia and P. simonii are the highest; H. rhamnoides is the second highest, and A. sibirica and P. tabuliformis are the lowest. These results indicate that vegetation restoration can significantly reduce the amount of water in the deep layers of the soil. In the future vegetation restoration, we suggest emphasizing natural development more strongly, since it can better maintain the local vegetation stability and soil moisture balance.
Single-trial modeling separates multiple overlapping prediction errors during reward processing in human EEG
Authors: Hoy Colin W. , Steiner Sheila C. , Knight Robert T.
Published: July 2021

Learning signals during reinforcement learning and cognitive control rely on valenced reward prediction errors (RPEs) and non-valenced salience prediction errors (PEs) driven by surprise magnitude. A core debate in reward learning focuses on whether valenced and non-valenced PEs can be isolated in the human electroencephalogram (EEG). We combine behavioral modeling and single-trial EEG regression to disentangle sequential PEs in an interval timing task dissociating outcome valence, magnitude, and probability. Multiple regression across temporal, spatial, and frequency dimensions characterized a spatio-tempo-spectral cascade from early valenced RPE value to non-valenced RPE magnitude, followed by outcome probability indexed by a late frontal positivity. Separating negative and positive outcomes revealed the valenced RPE value effect is an artifact of overlap between two non-valenced RPE magnitude responses: frontal theta feedback-related negativity on losses and posterior delta reward positivity on wins. These results reconcile longstanding debates on the sequence of components representing reward and salience PEs in the human EEG.
The effect of ultrasmall grain sizes on the thermal conductivity of nanocrystalline silicon thin films
Authors: Jugdersuren Battogtokh , Kearney Brian T. , Culbertson James C. , Chervin Christopher N. , Katz Michael B. , Stroud Rhonda M. , Liu Xiao
Published: July 2021

Nanocrystallization has been an important approach for reducing thermal conductivity in thermoelectric materials due to limits on phonon mean-free path imposed by the characteristic structural size. We report on thermal conductivity as low as 0.3 Wm−1K−1 of nanocrystalline silicon thin films prepared by plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor deposition as grain size is reduced to 2.8 nm by controlling hydrogen dilution of silane gas during growth. A multilayered film composed by alternating growth conditions, with layer thicknesses of 3.6 nm, is measured to have a thermal conductivity 30% and 15% lower than its two constituents. Our quantitative analysis attributes the strong reduction of thermal conductivity with decreasing grain size to the magnifying effect of porosity which occurs concomitantly due to increased mass density fluctuations. Our results demonstrate that ultrasmall grain sizes, multilayering, and porosity, all at a similar nanometer-size scale, may be a promising way to engineer thermoelectric materials.
Characterizations of Hydrogels
Authors: Hong Hye Jin , Koh Won-Gun
Published: July 2021

Hydrogels are combinations of polymeric networks that have been physically or chemically crosslinked with each other and have a three-dimensional (3D) mesh structure that can absorb a large amount of water while maintaining the overall configuration of the hydrogel. Hydrogels have attracted the attention of researchers worldwide owing to their various potential applications, including drug delivery, tissue regeneration, biosensor, 3D bioprinting, cell therapy, and 3D cell culture, depending on their physical and chemical features. To exploit this unique type of material, knowledge regarding its exclusive properties, as well as how these properties can be adjusted to accomplish different objectives, is crucial. Moreover, as numerous properties of hydrogels are considered critical to their applicability, it is important to utilize appropriate instruments and methods to evaluate such properties. In this chapter, we examine the various properties of hydrogels and discuss how these properties can be characterized.
3D Bioprinting Hydrogel for Hard Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Tan Baosen , Liu Wenyong , Kuang Shaolong , Li Xiaoming
Published: July 2021

Hard tissue defects have always been a major problem in clinical practices that plague humans because of population aging or injury. In the meantime, 3D bioprinting has increasingly gained tremendous progresses over the past decade in the field of biomedical engineering because of the ability to fabricate rapidly individualized tissue constructs and precise geometry designability. With the development of solvent-free, water-based systems, biomaterials, especially hydrogel-based bioink, could be directly bioprinted into scaffolds or tissue constructs utilizing 3D bioprinting, and cells could be cultivated and proliferated on the bioprinted scaffolds, further for the subsequent transplantation in clinical practice. And, the foremost biocompatible materials employed in existing 3D bioprinting method are hydrogels, which could be laden with different cell types and easily synthesized from natural polymers. In this chapter, the properties, structures and applications of 3D bioprinted hydrogel scaffolds for hard tissue including cartilage and bone are reviewed in conjunction with recent advances. And the current limitations such as low mechanical properties, poor stabilities and printability are presented, as well as the corresponding improved methods. We finally conclude with prospects about 3D bioprinting in hard tissue regeneration.
3D-bioprinting for Engineering Complex Tissues and Vascularization
Authors: Zhai Xinyun , Liu Wenguang
Published: July 2021

The main clinical therapeutic methods used for the repair of tissue organ defects include organ transplantation, surgical reconstruction, artificial substitutes, medical instruments, drug delivery and so on. Although organ transplantation is the most useful method, it has the disadvantages of limited number of donors and the annual increase in the rate of global organ shortage. Recently, 3D-printing and 3D-bioprinting methods have been increasingly used to fabricate personalized artificial organs with multifunctionality. And in this chapter, we discuss about 3D-bioprinting methods and vascularization of complex tissues. Human defects caused by trauma, congenital deformity, tumor excision and degenerative disease have serious physiological and psychological impacts on human health. Nowadays, tissue organ defects and functional impairments have become the major concerns, which lead to serious health problems and even death. The main clinical therapeutic methods include organ transplantation, surgical reconstruction, artificial substitutes, medical instruments, drug delivery and so on. Among these, organ transplantation method has been used to save millions of patients’ lives since the 1950s, but the number of patients needed to take this surgery far surpasses the number of donors, and the rate of global organ shortage increases annually. Besides this, the donor from autograft will induce new defects, and the donor from allograft will induce immunogenicity. Therefore, an alternative is needed for the patients who need to take the organ transplantation surgery.
Clinical Application and Regulation of Bioprinting Biomaterials Focusing on Hydrogels
Authors: Jeon J. H. , Lim J. Y. , Kim S. W.
Published: July 2021

Bioprinting technology is emerging as a major innovation for replacing or repairing the tissues in the file category of tissue engineering, and this is specifically related to regenerative medicine. In this process, hydrogels-containing living cells are precisely placed in a predefined position, to form three-dimensional (3D) constructions of physically and biologically tissue-mimetic complex structures. In this sense, hydrogels are hydrophilic, three-dimensional networks that can absorb large quantities of water or biological fluids and thus have the potential to be used as prime candidates for carriers or matrices for cells in tissue engineering. Importantly, hydrogels are used in 3D bioprinting and are important components that affect the printing process. The hydrogels allow printed constructs to be assembled into 3D form and the hydrogels encapsulating cells, called bioink, to protect the cells in 3D conditions from any mechanical damage that might occur during the printing process. The bioink forms a matrix environment and supports cell growth in the printed constructs. This review describes the currently used hydrogels for 3D bioprinting and the potential clinical application of this process for tissue regeneration.
Exercise training combined with Bifidobacterium longum OLP-01 treatment regulates insulin resistance and physical performance in db/db mice
Authors: Hsu Yi-Ju , Wu Ming-Fang , Lee Mon-Chien , Huang Chi-Chang
Published: July 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent chronic disease characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance.
Structural evolution and sulfuration of nickel cobalt hydroxides from 2D to 1D on 3D diatomite for supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Xiushuang , Dai Xingjian , Li Kailin , Bao Zhihao , Li Haiyan , Tian Huiwen , Yang Ping-an , Zhou Huan , Chen Hui , Yu Yaolun , Yan Peng , Zhang Yuxin
Published: July 2021

Transition metal nickel–cobalt hydroxides are widely used as electrode materials for supercapacitors due to their intriguing active component properties.
Zn–Fe–oxide nanostructures of different iron concentrations for multifunctional applications: properties and precursor influence
Authors: Mihalache V. , Negrila C. , Mercioniu I. , Iacob N. , Kuncser V.
Published: July 2021

Zn(ii)–Fe(iii)carboxylate decomposition favours Zn- and Fe-rich phases separation resulting in ZnO/ZnFe2O4 nanocomposites: systems of superparamagnetic spinel ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles/nanoclusters of high inversion degree.
Generation, contraction, and polarisation of Gaussian basis sets for atomic and molecular calculations using the generator coordinate method with polynomial discretisation: atoms from Na through Cl
Authors: R. Guimarães Amanda , Barbosa Rugles C. , Mora Tello Ana Cristina , P. da Silva Aldineia , A. Alves Júlia M. , Palhares Maringolo Milena , B. F. da Silva Albérico
Published: July 2021

The pGCHF basis sets for second-row atoms were generated using the CG method based on polynomial integral expansion to discretise the GWHF equations. These new basis sets can achieve competitive accuracy while describing atomisation energies.
Steering the methanol steam reforming reactivity of intermetallic Cu–In compounds by redox activation: stability vs. formation of an intermetallic compound–oxide interface
Authors: Ploner Kevin , Doran Andrew , Kunz Martin , Gili Albert , Gurlo Aleksander , Köwitsch Nicolas , Armbrüster Marc , Bernardi Johannes , Watschinger Maximilian , Penner Simon
Published: July 2021

To compare the properties of intermetallic compounds and intermetallic compound–oxide interfaces, Cu–In was used as a model to correlate stability limits, self-activation and redox activation with the inherent methanol steam reforming performance.
An efficient chromium(iii)-catalyzed aerobic oxidation of methylarenes in water for the green preparation of corresponding acids
Authors: Jiang Feng , Liu Shanshan , Zhao Wenshu , Yu Han , Yan Likai , Wei Yongge
Published: July 2021

A highly efficient method to oxidize methylarenes to their corresponding acids with a reusable Cr catalyst was developed. Catalysts which can be recycled, green oxidants and solvent make this new methodology environmentally benign and cost-effective.
Low temperature structures and magnetic interactions in the organic-based ferromagnetic and metamagnetic polymorphs of decamethylferrocenium 7,7,8,8-tetracyano-p-quinodimethanide, [FeCp*2]˙+[TCNQ]˙−
Authors: Lapidus Saul H. , Stephens Peter W. , Fumanal Maria , Ribas-Ariño Jordi , Novoa Juan J. , DaSilva Jack G. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Miller Joel S.
Published: July 2021

To identify the genesis of the differing magnetic behaviors for the ferro- (FO) and metamagnetic (MM) polymorphs of [FeCp*2][TCNQ] the low temperature structures of each polymorph were determined from high-resolution synchrotron powder diffraction data.
An ingeniously assembled metal–organic framework on the surface of FeMn co-doped Ni(OH)2 as a high-efficiency electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Ye Lei , Zhang Yeqing , Zhang Meilin , Gong Yaqiong
Published: July 2021

FeMn co-doped Ni(OH)2 nanosheets were grown in situ on the surface of nickel foam and then transformed into a MOF by etching strategy, which shows excellent OER performance and durability under alkaline conditions.
Toxic effects of copper on the jejunum and colon of pigs: mechanisms related to gut barrier dysfunction and inflammation influenced by the gut microbiota
Authors: Liao Jianzhao , Li Quanwei , Lei Chaiqin , Yu Wenlan , Deng Jichang , Guo Jianying , Han Qingyue , Hu Lianmei , Li Ying , Pan Jiaqiang , Zhang Hui , Chang Yung-Fu , Tang Zhaoxin
Published: July 2021

Excess copper (Cu) had significant effects on microbiota and metabolites in the jejunum and colon, which were involved in intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammation.
Cross-dehydrogenative coupling: a sustainable reaction for C–C bond formations
Authors: Tian Tian , Li Zhiping , Li Chao-Jun
Published: July 2021

We provide a review of the progress of cross-dehydrogenative coupling reactions in constructing a wide variety of C–C bonds. Sustainable cross-dehydrogenative coupling reactions can be combined with multiple forms of energy output.
Remarkable electrochemical and ion-transport characteristics of magnesium-fluorinated alkoxyaluminate–diglyme electrolytes for magnesium batteries
Authors: Mandai Toshihiko , Youn Yong , Tateyama Yoshitaka
Published: July 2021

One specific magnesium battery electrolyte composed of Mg[Al(HFIP)4]2 and G2 exhibits outstanding electrochemical activity owing to the enhanced mass transport combined with favorable interfacial kinetics.
Preparation, characterization, and analysis of multi-walled carbon nanotube-based nanofluid: an aggregate based interpretation
Authors: Abubakr Mohamed , Osman Tarek A. , Kishawy Hossam A. , Elharouni Farida , Hegab Hussien , Esawi Amal M. K.
Published: July 2021

Multiprespective analysis of MWCNTs nanofluids.
Preparation of ultra-high mechanical strength wear-resistant carbon fiber textiles with a PVA/PEG coating
Authors: Feng Ziqin , Hu Feng , Lv Leifeng , Gao Li , Lu Hailin
Published: July 2021

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is an organic polymer that is non-toxic, harmless to the human body, and has good biocompatibility. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a polymer that has good lubricity and compatibility. As a new coating material, PVA/PEG has good mechanical properties.
Synthesis of C-acyl furanosides via the cross-coupling of glycosyl esters with carboxylic acids
Authors: Wei Yongliang , Lam Jenny , Diao Tianning
Published: July 2021

A cross-coupling of glycosyl esters with carboxylic acids to prepare C-acyl furanosides and pyranosides. The reaction proceeds through photoredox activation of the glycosyl ester to afford glycosyl radicals.
Photocatalytic reaction mechanisms at a gas–solid interface for typical air pollutant decomposition
Authors: Chen Ruimin , Li Jieyuan , Wang Hong , Chen Peng , Dong Xing'an , Sun Yanjuan , Zhou Ying , Dong Fan
Published: July 2021

We review photocatalytic reaction mechanisms at the gas-solid interface, including research methods, reactants adsorption and activation, derivation and regulation of reaction pathways and pollutant decomposition. An outlook on photocatalytic systems is also given.
Impact of hydration on ion transport in Li2Sn2S5·xH2O
Authors: Joos Markus , Schneider Christian , Münchinger Andreas , Moudrakovski Igor , Usiskin Robert , Maier Joachim , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: July 2021

The layered material Li2Sn2S5 forms two hydrated solid phases under increasing humidity. Intercalated water hydrates the interlayer Li+ ions and screens coulombic interactions, leading to a high in-plane mobility of both Li+ and H2O.
An oriented Ni–Co-MOF anchored on solution-free 1D CuO: a p–n heterojunction for supercapacitive energy storage
Authors: Hussain Iftikhar , Iqbal Sarmad , Hussain Tanveer , Chen Yatu , Ahmad Muhammad , Javed Muhammad Sufyan , AlFantazi Akram , Zhang Kaili
Published: July 2021

We proposed an effective strategy to address the structural limitations of metal organic frameworks for energy storage devices. An oriented n-type Ni–Co-MOF was grown on solution-free p-type CuO nanowires.
Impact of material parameters on strong exciton–photon coupling states formed in microcrystal resonators of p- and n-type thiophene/phenylene co-oligomers
Authors: Mizuno Hitoshi , Jinjyo Tomomi , Bando Kazuki , Sasaki Fumio , Yamashita Kenichi , Yanagi Hisao
Published: July 2021

Microcrystal resonators with different orientations of thiophene/phenylene co-oligomers are prepared using a modified miniemulsion method. Strong exciton–photon coupling with Rabi splitting energy up to 1.25 eV is observed.
Translational regulation in pathogenic and beneficial plant–microbe interactions
Authors: Traubenik Soledad , Ferrari Milagros , Blanco Flavio Antonio , Zanetti María Eugenia
Published: July 2021

Plants are surrounded by a vast diversity of microorganisms. Limiting pathogenic microorganisms is crucial for plant survival. On the other hand, the interaction of plants with beneficial microorganisms promotes their growth or allows them to overcome nutrient deficiencies. Balancing the number and nature of these interactions is crucial for plant growth and development, and thus, for crop productivity in agriculture. Plants use sophisticated mechanisms to recognize pathogenic and beneficial microorganisms and genetic programs related to immunity or symbiosis. Although most research has focused on characterizing changes in the transcriptome during plant–microbe interactions, the application of techniques such as Translating Ribosome Affinity Purification (TRAP) and Ribosome profiling allowed examining the dynamic association of RNAs to the translational machinery, highlighting the importance of the translational level of control of gene expression in both pathogenic and beneficial interactions. These studies revealed that the transcriptional and the translational responses are not always correlated, and that translational control operates at cell-specific level. In addition, translational control is governed by cis-elements present in the 5′mRNA leader of regulated mRNAs, e.g. upstream open reading frames (uORFs) and sequence-specific motifs. In this review, we summarize and discuss the recent advances made in the field of translational control during pathogenic and beneficial plant–microbe interactions.
Ligands and DNA in the allosteric control of retinoid receptors function
Authors: Germain Pierre , Rochel Natacha , Bourguet William
Published: July 2021

Retinoids are a family of compounds that include both vitamin A (all-trans retinol) and its naturally occurring metabolites such as retinoic acids (e.g. all-trans retinoic acid) as well as synthetic analogs. They are critically involved in the regulation of a wide variety of essential biological processes, such as embryogenesis and organogenesis, apoptosis, reproduction, vision, and the growth and differentiation of normal and neoplastic cells in vertebrates. The ability of these small molecules to control the expression of several hundred genes through binding to nuclear ligand-dependent transcription factors accounts for most of their functions. Three retinoic acid receptor (RARα,β,γ) and three retinoid X receptor (RXRα,β,γ) subtypes form a variety of RXR–RAR heterodimers that have been shown to mediate the pleiotropic effects of retinoids through the recruitment of high-molecular weight co-regulatory complexes to response-element DNA sequences found in the promoter region of their target genes. Hence, heterodimeric retinoid receptors are multidomain entities that respond to various incoming signals, such as ligand and DNA binding, by allosteric structural alterations which are the basis of further signal propagation. Here, we provide an overview of the current state of knowledge with regard to the structural mechanisms by which retinoids and DNA response elements act as allosteric effectors that may combine to finely tune RXR–RAR heterodimers activity.
Relation Between the Screening Checklist for Auditory Processing in Adults and Diagnostic Auditory Processing Test Performance
Authors: Vaidyanath Ramya , Yathiraj Asha
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between the Screening Checklist for Auditory Processing in Adults and the performance of older adults on a battery of diagnostic tests for auditory processing. This was done for two versions of the checklist, one answered by older individuals at risk for auditory processing disorder (APD) and the other by the family of the older adults.

Method

Forty-nine older adults and 34 of their family members were initially tested with the screening checklist, each being tested with the version developed for them. Approximately half of the older adults had normal pure-tone thresholds, while the others had mild–moderate hearing loss above 2 kHz. The older adults were administered tests of auditory separation/closure, auditory integration, temporal resolution, temporal patterning, and auditory memory and sequencing.

Results

Most of the older adults and their family members reported of the presence of auditory processing difficulties on the screening checklist. On the diagnostic test battery, many of the older adults, irrespective of their high-frequency hearing sensitivity, failed the tests measuring temporal resolution and auditory integration. The sensitivity and specificity of the checklist answered by the older individuals were 69.05% and 71.43%, respectively. On the other hand, for the checklist answered by the family members, it was 77.78% and 33.33%, respectively. The test–retest reliability of the two versions of the checklist was found to be good.

Conclusions

As the specificity of the checklist answered by the family members was considerably lower than that answered by the older adults, the use of the version for the latter group is recommended. However, the checklist answered by the caregivers could be used to complement information obtained from the older adults at risk for APD when the older adults are unable to give valid responses.
Effect of Smartphone Use on Static and Dynamic Postural Balance in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Orhan Emre , Altın Büşra , Aksoy Songül
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible effects of smartphone usage in the biomechanical balance system.

Method

Twenty-five healthy young adults (10 men, 15 women) between the ages of 18 and 25 years without balance problems were included in the study. Sensory organization, adaptation, rhythmic weight shift, and functional limitation tests (unilateral stance, sit to stand, walk across, tandem walk, step quick turn, step up down, forward lunge) have been applied.

Results

Significant results were obtained in parameters of sensory organization, tandem walk, walk across, and unilateral stance tests (
p
< .05).

Conclusion

The effects of using smartphones on postural control and balance in different circumstances, such as standing and walking, must be comprehensively determined to prevent accident.
Synchronizing series-parallel deterministic finite automata with loops and related problems
Authors: Bruchertseifer Jens , Fernau Henning
Published: July 2021

We study the problem DFA-SW of determining if a given deterministic finite automatonApossesses a synchronizing word of length at mostkfor automata whose (multi-)graphs are TTSPL,i.e., series-parallel, plus allowing some self-loops. While DFA-SW remains NP-complete on TTSPL automata, we also find (further) restrictions with efficient (parameterized) algorithms. We also study the (parameterized) complexity of related problems, for instance, extension variants of the synchronizing word problem, or the problem of finding smallest alphabet-induced synchronizable sub-automata.
Perioperatives Vorhofflimmern
Authors: Bodenstein Marc , Rohn Daniel , Schuster Michael
Published: July 2021

Ein neu auftretendes Vorhofflimmern ist in der perioperativen Phase ein Risikofaktor für erhöhte Morbidität und Mortalität. Ein Patient, bei dem unmittelbar präoperativ oder intraoperativ ein Vorhofflimmern mit oder ohne schnelle Überleitung neu auftritt, muss kardiologisch vorgestellt werden. Die Verschiebung eines Eingriffs zugunsten einer kardiologischen Vorstellung kann den Heilungsverlauf unter Umständen günstig beeinflussen.
Infektionsprävention in der Anästhesie
Authors: Bonsignore Marzia , Nachtigall Irit
Published: July 2021

Die anästhesiologische Versorgung von Patienten im OP beinhaltet viele Tätigkeiten, bei denen es zu Infektionen kommen kann. Die Händehygiene ist die effektivste Einzelmaßnahme zur Prävention nosokomialer Infektionen. Spender mit Händedesinfektionsmittel sollten gut erreichbar angebracht werden.

Bei der Zubereitung von Infusionen und i. v. zu verabreichenden Medikamenten kann ein Eintrag von Mikroorganismen auch bei Beachtung aller hygienischer Vorgaben nicht vollkommen ausgeschlossen werden. Daher dürfen Parenteralia ohne Konservierungsmittel nur unmittelbar vor der Gabe, nicht mehrfach und nicht für mehrere Patienten aus einem Gebinde entnommen werden.

Bei Punktionen für Regionalanästhesien und zur Anlage von Gefäßkathetern gelten die höchsten Anforderungen an die Hygiene, wenn lange Seldinger-Drähte verwendet oder Katheter in tiefe Gewebsräume oder Körperhöhlen gelegt werden.

Eine rechtzeitig applizierte Antibiotikaprophylaxe ist eine der wichtigsten Maßnahmen der perioperativen Infektionsprävention. Die Substanzauswahl und die Indikation sollten in einer hausinternen Leitlinie festgehalten sein. Die Wahrung eines ausgeglichenen Volumen-, Temperatur- und Glukosehaushalts trägt zur Prophylaxe postoperativer Wundinfektionen bei.

Die Aufbereitung eines OP-Saals nach einer Operation muss immer gewährleisten, dass von diesem keine Infektionsgefahr für den folgenden Patienten ausgeht – unabhängig davon, mit welchen Erregern der Vorgängerpatient infiziert oder besiedelt ist. Für weitergehende Maßnahmen zur Trennung von sog. aseptischen und septischen Operationen oder von Patienten mit multiresistenten Erregern gibt es keine Evidenz.

Um bei SARS-CoV-2-infizierten Patienten im OP die notwendigen Maßnahmen zum Mitarbeiterschutz ergreifen zu können, ist es essenziell, den aktuellen Infektionsstatus zu kennen. Bei der Übergabe des Patienten im OP sollte das Vorhandensein eines aktuellen Testergebnisses überprüft und z. B. auf der OP-Checkliste dokumentiert werden.
Prävention postoperativer Wundinfektionen
Authors: Utzolino Stefan , Eckmann Christian , Lock Johan Friso
Published: July 2021

Die moderne Chirurgie ermöglicht immer komplexere operative Eingriffe bei immer älteren und komorbiden Patienten. Dies geht mit einem potenziell erhöhten Risiko für perioperative Infektionen (SSI) einher. Für deren Vermeidung sind Sauberkeit, Händedesinfektion und steriles Arbeiten essenziell, während einige traditionelle Hygienemaßnahmen zur Prävention untauglich sind. In diesem Beitrag werden Unterschiede der relevantesten Leitlinien zu SSI ggf. besonders herausgestellt.