bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher socioeconomic status does not predict decreased prosocial behavior in a field experiment
Authors: Andreoni James , Nikiforakis Nikos , Stoop Jan
Published: July 2021

Does higher socioeconomic status predict decreased prosocial behavior? Methodological issues such as the reliance of survey studies on self-reported measures of prosociality, the insufficient control of relative incentives in experiments, and the use of non-random samples, have prevented researchers from ruling out that there is a negative association between socioeconomic status (SES) and prosociality. Here, we present results from a field experiment on the willingness of unaware individuals of different SES to undertake an effortful prosocial task—returning a misdelivered letter. Specifically, using the rental or sale value of homes as indicators of SES, we randomly selected households of high and low SES and misdelivered envelopes to them. Despite controlling for numerous covariates and performing a series of ancillary tests, we fail to find any evidence that higher SES predicts decreased prosocial behavior. Instead, we find that misdelivered letters are substantially more likely to be returned from high rather than low SES households.
A general charge transport picture for organic semiconductors with nonlocal electron-phonon couplings
Authors: Li Weitang , Ren Jiajun , Shuai Zhigang
Published: July 2021

The nonlocal electron-phonon couplings in organic semiconductors responsible for the fluctuation of intermolecular transfer integrals has been the center of interest recently. Several irreconcilable scenarios coexist for the description of the nonlocal electron-phonon coupling, such as phonon-assisted transport, transient localization, and band-like transport. Through a nearly exact numerical study for the carrier mobility of the Holstein-Peierls model using the matrix product states approach, we locate the phonon-assisted transport, transient localization and band-like regimes as a function of the transfer integral (V) and the nonlocal electron-phonon couplings (ΔV), and their distinct transport behaviors are analyzed by carrier mobility, mean free path, optical conductivity and one-particle spectral function. We also identify an “intermediate regime” where none of the established pictures applies, and the generally perceived hopping regime is found to be at a very limited end in the proposed regime paradigm.
Gene therapy for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency by MR-guided direct delivery of AAV2-AADC to midbrain dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Pearson Toni S. , Gupta Nalin , San Sebastian Waldy , Imamura-Ching Jill , Viehoever Amy , Grijalvo-Perez Ana , Fay Alex J. , Seth Neha , Lundy Shannon M. , Seo Youngho , Pampaloni Miguel , Hyland Keith , Smith Erin , de Oliveira Barbosa Gardenia , Heathcock Jill C. , Minnema Amy , Lonser Russell , Elder J. Bradley , Leonard Jeffrey , Larson Paul , Bankiewicz Krystof S.
Published: July 2021

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder characterized by deficient synthesis of dopamine and serotonin. It presents in early infancy, and causes severe developmental disability and lifelong motor, behavioral, and autonomic symptoms including oculogyric crises (OGC), sleep disorder, and mood disturbance. We investigated the safety and efficacy of delivery of a viral vector expressing AADC (AAV2-hAADC) to the midbrain in children with AADC deficiency (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02852213). Seven (7) children, aged 4–9 years underwent convection-enhanced delivery (CED) of AAV2-hAADC to the bilateral substantia nigra (SN) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) (total infusion volume: 80 µL per hemisphere) in 2 dose cohorts: 1.3 × 1011 vg (n = 3), and 4.2 × 1011 vg (n = 4). Primary aims were to demonstrate the safety of the procedure and document biomarker evidence of restoration of brain AADC activity. Secondary aims were to assess clinical improvement in symptoms and motor function. Direct bilateral infusion of AAV2-hAADC was safe, well-tolerated and achieved target coverage of 98% and 70% of the SN and VTA, respectively. Dopamine metabolism was increased in all subjects and FDOPA uptake was enhanced within the midbrain and the striatum. OGC resolved completely in 6 of 7 subjects by Month 3 post-surgery. Twelve (12) months after surgery, 6/7 subjects gained normal head control and 4/7 could sit independently. At 18 months, 2 subjects could walk with 2-hand support. Both the primary and secondary endpoints of the study were met. Midbrain gene delivery in children with AADC deficiency is feasible and safe, and leads to clinical improvements in symptoms and motor function.
Phase management in single-crystalline vanadium dioxide beams
Authors: Shi Run , Chen Yong , Cai Xiangbin , Lian Qing , Zhang Zhuoqiong , Shen Nan , Amini Abbas , Wang Ning , Cheng Chun
Published: July 2021

A systematic study of various metal-insulator transition (MIT) associated phases of VO2, including metallic R phase and insulating phases (T, M1, M2), is required to uncover the physics of MIT and trigger their promising applications. Here, through an oxide inhibitor-assisted stoichiometry engineering, we show that all the insulating phases can be selectively stabilized in single-crystalline VO2 beams at room temperature. The stoichiometry engineering strategy also provides precise spatial control of the phase configurations in as-grown VO2 beams at the submicron-scale, introducing a fresh concept of phase transition route devices. For instance, the combination of different phase transition routes at the two sides of VO2 beams gives birth to a family of single-crystalline VO2 actuators with highly improved performance and functional diversity. This work provides a substantial understanding of the stoichiometry-temperature phase diagram and a stoichiometry engineering strategy for the effective phase management of VO2.
Transcriptional profiling of mESC-derived tendon and fibrocartilage cell fate switch
Authors: Kaji Deepak A. , Montero Angela M. , Patel Roosheel , Huang Alice H.
Published: July 2021

The transcriptional regulators underlying induction and differentiation of dense connective tissues such as tendon and related fibrocartilaginous tissues (meniscus and annulus fibrosus) remain largely unknown. Using an iterative approach informed by developmental cues and single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we establish directed differentiation models to generate tendon and fibrocartilage cells from mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) by activation of TGFβ and hedgehog pathways, achieving 90% induction efficiency. Transcriptional signatures of the mESC-derived cells recapitulate embryonic tendon and fibrocartilage signatures from the mouse tail. scRNA-seq further identify retinoic acid signaling as a critical regulator of cell fate switch between TGFβ-induced tendon and fibrocartilage lineages. Trajectory analysis by RNA sequencing define transcriptional modules underlying tendon and fibrocartilage fate induction and identify molecules associated with lineage-specific differentiation. Finally, we successfully generate 3-dimensional engineered tissues using these differentiation protocols and show activation of mechanotransduction markers with dynamic tensile loading. These findings provide a serum-free approach to generate tendon and fibrocartilage cells and tissues at high efficiency for modeling development and disease.
Improved functionality of Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01 in alleviating colonic inflammation by layer-by-layer microencapsulation
Authors: Yao Mingfei , Lu Yanmeng , Zhang Ting , Xie Jiaojiao , Han Shengyi , Zhang Shuobo , Fei Yiqiu , Ling Zongxin , Wu Jingjing , Hu Yue , Ji Shouling , Chen Hao , Berglund Björn , Li Lanjuan
Published: July 2021

The low viability during gastrointestinal transit and poor mucoadhesion considerably limits the effectiveness of Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01 (Li01) in regulating gut microbiota and alleviating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this study, a delivery system was designed through layer-by-layer (LbL) encapsulating a single Li01cell with chitosan and alginate. The layers were strengthened by cross-linking to form a firm and mucoadhesive shell (~10 nm thickness) covering the bacterial cell. The LbL Li01 displayed improved viability under simulated gastrointestinal conditions and mucoadhesive function. Almost no cells could be detected among the free Li01 after 2 h incubation in digestive fluids, while for LbL Li01, the total reduction was around 3 log CFU/mL and the viable number of cells remained above 6 log CFU/mL. Besides, a 5-fold increase in the value of rupture length and a two-fold increase in the number of peaks were found in the (bacteria-mucin) adhesion curves of LbL Li01, compared to those of free Li01. Oral administration with LbL Li01 on colitis mice facilitated intestinal barrier recovery and restoration of the gut microbiota. The improved functionality of Li01 by LbL encapsulation could increase the potential for the probiotic to be used in clinical applications to treat IBD; this should be explored in future studies.
Modulation of behavioral and neurochemical responses of adult zebrafish by fluoxetine, eicosapentaenoic acid and lipopolysaccharide in the prolonged chronic unpredictable stress model
Authors: Demin Konstantin A. , Kolesnikova Tatiana O. , Galstyan David S. , Krotova Nataliya A. , Ilyin Nikita P. , Derzhavina Ksenia A. , Levchenko Nataliia A. , Strekalova Tatyana , de Abreu Murilo S. , Petersen Elena V. , Seredinskaya Maria , Cherneyko Yulia V. , Kositsyn Yuriy M. , Sorokin Dmitry V. , Zabegalov Konstantin N. , Mor Mikael S. , Efimova Evgeniya V. , Kalueff Allan V.
Published: July 2021

Long-term recurrent stress is a common cause of neuropsychiatric disorders. Animal models are widely used to study the pathogenesis of stress-related psychiatric disorders. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is emerging as a powerful tool to study chronic stress and its mechanisms. Here, we developed a prolonged 11-week chronic unpredictable stress (PCUS) model in zebrafish to more fully mimic chronic stress in human populations. We also examined behavioral and neurochemical alterations in zebrafish, and attempted to modulate these states by 3-week treatment with an antidepressant fluoxetine, a neuroprotective omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a pro-inflammatory endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and their combinations. Overall, PCUS induced severe anxiety and elevated norepinephrine levels, whereas fluoxetine (alone or combined with other agents) corrected most of these behavioral deficits. While EPA and LPS alone had little effects on the zebrafish PCUS-induced anxiety behavior, both fluoxetine (alone or in combination) and EPA restored norepinephrine levels, whereas LPS + EPA increased dopamine levels. As these data support the validity of PCUS as an effective tool to study stress-related pathologies in zebrafish, further research is needed into the ability of various conventional and novel treatments to modulate behavioral and neurochemical biomarkers of chronic stress in this model organism.
The feasibility of pancreatic duct stenting using a novel 4-Fr plastic stent with a 0.025-in. guidewire
Authors: Nagai Kazumasa , Sofuni Atsushi , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Ishii Kentaro , Tanaka Reina , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Mukai Shuntaro , Yamamoto Kenjiro , Matsunami Yukitoshi , Asai Yasutsugu , Kurosawa Takashi , Kojima Hiroyuki , Minami Hirohito , Honma Toshihiro , Katanuma Akio , Itoi Takao
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic duct stenting is a well-established method for reducing post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis. However, there is no consensus on the optimal type of plastic stent. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a new 4-Fr plastic stent for pancreatic duct stenting. Forty-nine consecutive patients who placed the 4-Fr stent into the pancreatic duct (4Fr group) were compared with 187 consecutive patients who placed a conventional 5-Fr stent (control group). The primary outcome was technical success. Complications rate, including post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) were the secondary outcomes. Propensity score matching was introduced to reduce selection bias. The technical success rate was 100% in the 4Fr group and 97.9% in the control group (p = 0.315). Post-ERCP amylase level was significantly lower in the 4-Fr group than the control group before propensity score matching (p = 0.006), though without statistical significance after propensity score matching (p = 0.298). The rate of PEP in the 4Fr group (6.1%) was lower than the control group (15.5%), though without statistical significance before (p = 0.088) and after (p = 1.00) propensity score matching. Pancreatic duct stenting using a novel 4-Fr plastic stent would be at least similar or more feasible and safe compared to the conventional plastic stent.
New candidate blood biomarkers potentially associated with white matter hyperintensities progression
Authors: Jiménez-Balado Joan , Pizarro Jesús , Riba-Llena Iolanda , Penalba Anna , Faura Júlia , Palà Elena , Montaner Joan , Hernández-Guillamon Mar , Delgado Pilar
Published: July 2021

We aimed to discover blood biomarkers associated with longitudinal changes in white matter hyperintensities (WMH). This study was divided into a discovery phase and a replication phase. Subjects in both studies were patients with hypertension, aged 50–70, who underwent two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sessions and blood extractions over a 4-year follow-up period. In the discovery phase, we screened 1305 proteins in 12 subjects with WMH progression and in 12 matched control subjects. We found that 41 proteins were differentially expressed: 13 were upregulated and 28 were downregulated. We subsequently selected three biomarkers for replication in baseline and follow-up samples in 80 subjects with WMH progression and in 80 control subjects. The selected protein candidates for the replication were MMP9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9), which was higher in cases, MET (hepatocyte growth factor receptor) and ASAH2 (neutral ceramidase), which were both lower in cases of WMH progression. Baseline biomarker concentrations did not predict WMH progression. In contrast, patients with WMH progression presented a steeper decline in MET over time. Furthermore, cases showed higher MMP9 and lower ASAH2 levels than controls at the follow-up. These results indicate that MMP9, MET, and ASAH2 are potentially associated with the progression of WMH, and could therefore be interesting candidates to validate in future studies.
A simulation study investigating potential diffusion-based MRI signatures of microstrokes
Authors: Damseh Rafat , Lu Yuankang , Lu Xuecong , Zhang Cong , Marchand Paul J. , Corbin Denis , Pouliot Philippe , Cheriet Farida , Lesage Frederic
Published: July 2021

Recent studies suggested that cerebrovascular micro-occlusions, i.e. microstokes, could lead to ischemic tissue infarctions and cognitive deficits. Due to their small size, identifying measurable biomarkers of these microvascular lesions remains a major challenge. This work aims to simulate potential MRI signatures combining arterial spin labeling (ASL) and multi-directional diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Driving our hypothesis are recent observations demonstrating a radial reorientation of microvasculature around the micro-infarction locus during recovery in mice. Synthetic capillary beds, randomly- and radially-oriented, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiograms, acquired in the barrel cortex of mice (n = 5) before and after inducing targeted photothrombosis, were analyzed. Computational vascular graphs combined with a 3D Monte-Carlo simulator were used to characterize the magnetic resonance (MR) response, encompassing the effects of magnetic field perturbations caused by deoxyhemoglobin, and the advection and diffusion of the nuclear spins. We quantified the minimal intravoxel signal loss ratio when applying multiple gradient directions, at varying sequence parameters with and without ASL. With ASL, our results demonstrate a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the signal-ratios computed at baseline and 3 weeks after photothrombosis. The statistical power further increased (p < 0.005) using angiograms measured at week 4. Without ASL, no reliable signal change was found. We found that higher ratios, and accordingly improved significance, were achieved at lower magnetic field strengths (e.g., B0 = 3T) and shorter echo time TE (< 16 ms). Our simulations suggest that microstrokes might be characterized through ASL-DWI sequence, providing necessary insights for posterior experimental validations, and ultimately, future translational trials.
Introduction of Chalcogenide Glasses to Additive Manufacturing: Nanoparticle Ink Formulation, Inkjet Printing, and Phase Change Devices Fabrication
Authors: Ahmed Simon A. , Badamchi B. , Subbaraman H. , Sakaguchi Y. , Jones L. , Kunold H. , J. van Rooyen I. , Mitkova M.
Published: July 2021

Chalcogenide glasses are one of the most versatile materials that have been widely researched because of their flexible optical, chemical, electronic, and phase change properties. Their application is usually in the form of thin films, which work as active layers in sensors and memory devices. In this work, we investigate the formulation of nanoparticle ink of Ge–Se chalcogenide glasses and its potential applications. The process steps reported in this work describe nanoparticle ink formulation from chalcogenide glasses, its application via inkjet printing and dip-coating methods and sintering to manufacture phase change devices. We report data regarding nanoparticle production by ball milling and ultrasonication along with the essential characteristics of the formed inks, like contact angle and viscosity. The printed chalcogenide glass films were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. The printed films exhibited similar compositional, structural, electronic and optical properties as the thermally evaporated thin films. The crystallization processes of the printed films are discussed compared to those obtained by vacuum thermal deposition. We demonstrate the formation of printed thin films using nanoparticle inks, low-temperature sintering and proof for the first time, their application in electronic and photonic temperature sensors utilizing their phase change property. This work adds chalcogenide glasses to the list of inkjet printable materials, thus offering an easy way to form arbitrary device structures for optical and electronic applications.
Attenuated asthma phenotype in mice with a fetal-like antigen receptor repertoire
Authors: Stutz Regine , Meyer Christopher , Kaiser Elisabeth , Goedicke-Fritz Sybelle , Schroeder Harry W. , Bals Robert , Haertel Christoph , Rogosch Tobias , Kerzel Sebastian , Zemlin Michael
Published: July 2021

We hypothesized that the scarcity of N-nucleotides might contribute to the inability of the neonate to mount a robust allergic immune response. To test this, we used terminal deoxyribunucleotidyl Transferase deficient (TdT−/−) mice, which express “fetal-like” T cell receptor and immunoglobulin repertoires with largely germline-encoded CDR3 regions. Intraperitoneal sensitization was followed by aerosol provocation with either PBS or the allergen OVA in both TdT−/−mice and wild-type mice to develop allergic respiratory inflammation. The effects of this procedure were investigated by lung function test, immunological analysis of serum and brochoalveolar lavage. The local TH2 cytokine milieu was significantly attenuated in TdT−/−mice. Within this group, the induction of total IgE levels was also significantly reduced after sensitization. TdT−/−mice showed a tendency toward reduced eosinophilic inflow into the bronchial tubes, which was associated with the elimination of respiratory hyperreactivity. In conclusion, in a murine model of allergic airway inflammation, the expression of fetal-like antigen receptors was associated with potent indications of a reduced ability to mount an asthma phenotype. This underlines the importance of somatically-generated antigen-receptor repertoire diversity in type one allergic immune responses and suggests that the fetus may be protected from allergic responses, at least in part, by controlling N addition.
Divergent reflections around the photon sphere of a black hole
Authors: Sneppen Albert
Published: July 2021

From any location outside the event horizon of a black hole there are an infinite number of trajectories for light to an observer. Each of these paths differ in the number of orbits revolved around the black hole and in their proximity to the last photon orbit. With simple numerical and a perturbed analytical solution to the null-geodesic equation of the Schwarzschild black hole we will reaffirm how each additional orbit is a factor $$e^{2 \pi }$$

e

2
π

closer to the black hole’s optical edge. Consequently, the surface of the black hole and any background light will be mirrored infinitely in exponentially thinner slices around the last photon orbit. Furthermore, the introduced formalism proves how the entire trajectories of light in the strong field limit is prescribed by a diverging and a converging exponential. Lastly, the existence of the exponential family is generalized to the equatorial plane of the Kerr black hole with the exponentials dependence on spin derived. Thereby, proving that the distance between subsequent images increases and decreases for respectively retrograde and prograde images. In the limit of an extremely rotating Kerr black hole no logarithmic divergence exists for prograde trajectories.
Filtration mapping as complete Bell state analyzer for bosonic particles
Authors: Kozubov A. V. , Gaidash A. A. , Kiselev A. D. , Miroshnichenko G. P.
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we present the approach to complete Bell state analysis based on filtering mapping. The key distinctive feature of this appoach is that it avoids complications related to using either hyperentanglement or representation of the Bell states as concatenated Greenber–Horne–Zeilinger (C-GHZ) state to perform discrimination procedure. We describe two techniques developed within the suggested approach and based on two-step algorithms with two different types of filtration mapping which can be called the non-demolition and semi-demolition filtrations. In the method involving non-demolition filtration measurement the filtration process employs cross-Kerr nonlinearity and the probe mode to distinguish between the two pairs of the Bell states. In the case of semi-demolition measurement, the two states are unambiguously discriminated and hence destroyed, whereas filtraton keeps the other two states intact. We show that the measurement that destroys the single photon subspace in every mode and preserves the superposition of zero and two photons can be realized with discrete photodetection based on microresonator with atoms.
Growth and development of children under 5 years of age with tetralogy of Fallot in a Chinese population
Authors: Li Xin , Zhu Jin , An Jun , Wang Yuqing , Wu Yili , Li Xuezhi
Published: July 2021

Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs) are associated with different patterns of malnutrition and growth retardation, which may vary worldwide and need to be evaluated according to local conditions. Although tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is one of the first described CHDs, the etiology outcomes in growth and development of TOF in early age child is still unclear in most cases. This study was designed to investigate the growth retardation status of Chinese pediatric TOF patients under 5 years old. The body height, body weight and body mass index (BMI) of 262 pediatric patients (138 boys and 124 girls) who underwent corrective surgery for TOF between 2014 and 2018 were measured using conventional methods. The average body height, body weight and BMI of the patients were significantly lower than WHO Child Growth Standards, while the most affected was body height. Meanwhile, higher stunting frequency and greater deterioration of both the body height and weight happened in elder age (aged 13–60 months) rather than in infant stage (aged 0–12 months) among these patients. Our results confirmed that intervention should be given at early age to prevent the growth retardation of TOF patients getting severer.
High altitude hunting, climate change, and pastoral resilience in eastern Eurasia
Authors: Taylor William , Hart Isaac , Pan Caleb , Bayarsaikhan Jamsranjav , Murdoch James , Caspari Gino , Klinge Michael , Pearson Kristen , Bikhumar Umirbyek , Shnaider Svetlana , Abdykanova Aida , Bittner Peter , Zahir Muhammad , Jarman Nicholas , Williams Mark , Pettigrew Devin , Petraglia Michael , Lee Craig , Dixon E. James , Boivin Nicole
Published: July 2021

The transition from hunting to herding transformed the cold, arid steppes of Mongolia and Eastern Eurasia into a key social and economic center of the ancient world, but a fragmentary archaeological record limits our understanding of the subsistence base for early pastoral societies in this key region. Organic material preserved in high mountain ice provides rare snapshots into the use of alpine and high altitude zones, which played a central role in the emergence of East Asian pastoralism. Here, we present the results of the first archaeological survey of melting ice margins in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia, revealing a near-continuous record of more than 3500 years of human activity. Osteology, radiocarbon dating, and collagen fingerprinting analysis of wooden projectiles, animal bone, and other artifacts indicate that big-game hunting and exploitation of alpine ice played a significant role during the emergence of mobile pastoralism in the Altai, and remained a core element of pastoral adaptation into the modern era. Extensive ice melting and loss of wildlife in the study area over recent decades, driven by a warming climate, poaching, and poorly regulated hunting, presents an urgent threat to the future viability of herding lifeways and the archaeological record of hunting in montane zones.
Comparative analysis of oral-gut microbiota between captive and wild long-tailed macaque in Thailand
Authors: Sawaswong Vorthon , Praianantathavorn Kesmanee , Chanchaem Prangwalai , Khamwut Ariya , Kemthong Taratorn , Hamada Yuzuru , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Payungporn Sunchai
Published: July 2021

Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), distributed in Southeast Asia, are generally used in biomedical research. At present, the expansion of human communities overlapping of macaques’ natural habitat causes human-macaque conflicts. To mitigate this problem in Thailand, the National Primate Research Center of Thailand, Chulalongkorn University (NPRCT-CU), was granted the permit to catch the surplus wild-born macaques and transfer them to the center. Based on the fact that the diets provided and the captive environments were different, their oral-gut microbiota should be altered. Thus, we investigated and compared the oral and fecal microbiome between wild-born macaques that lived in the natural habitats and those transferred to and reared in the NPRCT-CU for 1 year. The results from 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing showed that the captive macaques had distinct oral-gut microbiota profiles and lower bacterial richness compared to those in wild macaques. The gut of wild macaques was dominated by Firmicutes which is probably associated with lipid absorption and storage. These results implicated the effects of captivity conditions on the microbiome that might contribute to crucial metabolic functions. Our study should be applied to the animal health care program, with respect to microbial functions, for non-human primates.
Temporomandibular joint and Giant Panda’s (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) adaptation to bamboo diet
Authors: Vallittu Pekka K. , Varrela Juha , Salo Jukka , Rengui Li , Shanshan Ling , Shan Huang , Zhang Hemin , Niemelä Pekka
Published: July 2021

Here, we present new evidence that evolutionary adaptation of the Ailuripodinae lineage to bamboo diet has taken place by morphological adaptations in the masticatory system. The giant panda in the wild and in captivity removes without an exception the outer skin of all bamboo shoots, rich in abrasive and toxic compounds, by the highly adapted premolars P3 and P4. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) allows sidewise movement of the jaw and the premolars can, in a cusp-to-cusp position, remove the poorly digestible outer skin of the bamboo before crushing the bamboo with molars. Based on the evidence presented here, we suggest that adaptation of TMJ to lateral movement for enabling cusp-to-cusp contact of premolars is the crucial evolutionary factor as which we consider the key to understand the Ailuropodinae lineage adaptive pathway to utilize the bamboo resource.
A novel geo-hierarchical population mobility model for spatial spreading of resurgent epidemics
Authors: Topîrceanu Alexandru , Precup Radu-Emil
Published: July 2021

Computational models for large, resurgent epidemics are recognized as a crucial tool for predicting the spread of infectious diseases. It is widely agreed, that such models can be augmented with realistic multiscale population models and by incorporating human mobility patterns. Nevertheless, a large proportion of recent studies, aimed at better understanding global epidemics, like influenza, measles, H1N1, SARS, and COVID-19, underestimate the role of heterogeneous mixing in populations, characterized by strong social structures and geography. Motivated by the reduced tractability of studies employing homogeneous mixing, which make conclusions hard to deduce, we propose a new, very fine-grained model incorporating the spatial distribution of population into geographical settlements, with a hierarchical organization down to the level of households (inside which we assume homogeneous mixing). In addition, population is organized heterogeneously outside households, and we model the movement of individuals using travel distance and frequency parameters for inter- and intra-settlement movement. Discrete event simulation, employing an adapted SIR model with relapse, reproduces important qualitative characteristics of real epidemics, like high variation in size and temporal heterogeneity (e.g., waves), that are challenging to reproduce and to quantify with existing measures. Our results pinpoint an important aspect, that epidemic size is more sensitive to the increase in distance of travel, rather that the frequency of travel. Finally, we discuss implications for the control of epidemics by integrating human mobility restrictions, as well as progressive vaccination of individuals.
Cold bubble humidification of low-flow oxygen does not prevent acute changes in inflammation and oxidative stress at nasal mucosa
Authors: Santana Lauriana Alves , Bezerra Suellen Karoline Moreira , Saraiva-Romanholo Beatriz Mangueira , Yamaguti Wellington Pereira , de Fátima Lopes Calvo Tibério Iolanda , dos Santos Tabata Maruyama , Righetti Renato Fraga
Published: July 2021

Some clinical situations require the use of oxygen therapy for a few hours without hypoxemia. However, there are no literature reports on the effects of acute oxygen therapy on the nasal mucosa. This study aimed to evaluate the acute effects of cold bubble humidification or dry oxygen on nasal Inflammation, oxidative stress, mucociliary clearance, and nasal symptoms. This is a randomized controlled cross-sectional study in which healthy subjects were randomly allocated into four groups: (1) CA + DRY (n = 8): individuals receiving dry compressed air; (2) OX + DRY (n = 8): individuals receiving dry oxygen therapy; (3) CA + HUMID (n = 7): individuals receiving cold bubbled humidified compressed air; (4) OX + HUMID (n = 8): individuals receiving cold bubbled humidified oxygen therapy. All groups received 3 L per minute (LPM) of the oxygen or compressed air for 1 h and were evaluated: total and differential cells in the nasal lavage fluid (NLF), exhaled nitric oxide (eNO), 8-iso-PGF2α levels, saccharin transit test, nasal symptoms, and humidity of nasal cannula and mucosa. Cold bubble humidification is not able to reduced nasal inflammation, eNO, oxidative stress, mucociliary clearance, and nasal mucosa moisture. However, subjects report improvement of nasal dryness symptoms (P < 0.05). In the conclusion, cold bubble humidification of low flow oxygen therapy via a nasal cannula did not produce any effect on the nasal mucosa and did not attenuate the oxidative stress caused by oxygen. However, it was able to improve nasal symptoms arising from the use of oxygen therapy.
Tipping point realized in cod fishery
Authors: Möllmann Christian , Cormon Xochitl , Funk Steffen , Otto Saskia A. , Schmidt Jörn O. , Schwermer Heike , Sguotti Camilla , Voss Rudi , Quaas Martin
Published: July 2021

Understanding tipping point dynamics in harvested ecosystems is of crucial importance for sustainable resource management because ignoring their existence imperils social-ecological systems that depend on them. Fisheries collapses provide the best known examples for realizing tipping points with catastrophic ecological, economic and social consequences. However, present-day fisheries management systems still largely ignore the potential of their resources to exhibit such abrupt changes towards irreversible low productive states. Using a combination of statistical changepoint analysis and stochastic cusp modelling, here we show that Western Baltic cod is beyond such a tipping point caused by unsustainable exploitation levels that failed to account for changing environmental conditions. Furthermore, climate change stabilizes a novel and likely irreversible low productivity state of this fish stock that is not adapted to a fast warming environment. We hence argue that ignorance of non-linear resource dynamics has caused the demise of an economically and culturally important social-ecological system which calls for better adaptation of fisheries systems to climate change.
Sirt6-mediated Nrf2/HO-1 activation alleviates angiotensin II-induced DNA DSBs and apoptosis in podocytes
Authors: Fan Yanqin , Cheng Jing , Yang Qian , Feng Jun , Hu Jijia , Ren Zhilong , Yang Hongxia , Yang Dingping , Ding Guohua
Published: July 2021

Sirt6 upregulation inhibited Ang II-induced ROS generation and DNA DSBs in podocytes, and it shows the cytoprotective effects in podocytes via the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Sirt6 may be a new therapeutic target for the treatment of CKD.
Targeted delivery of dexamethasone in acute pneumonia
Authors: Ma Qingle , Yao Chenlu , Shi Haoliang , Xu Jialu , Dai Huaxing , Fei Ziying , Wu Yi , Lu Ting , Wang Chao
Published: July 2021

Platelet extracellular vesicles are engineered to deliver dexamethasone in acute pneumonia. This drug delivery system considerably reduces the anxiety-like behavior and calms down cytokine storm compared to the mice treated with free drug.
Rare-earth-metallocene alkylaluminates trigger distinct tetrahydrofuran activation
Authors: Bonath Martin , Birkelbach Verena M. , Stuhl Christoph , Maichle-Mössmer Cäcilia , Anwander Reiner
Published: July 2021

Lanthanocene Cp*2La(AlMe4) affords selective metalation of tetrahydrofuran to the 2-tetrahydrofuranyl derivative Cp*2La(2-AlMe3-OC4H7), while the yttrium reaction leads to THF degradation.
Enantioselective synthesis of tetra-substituted tetralines and tetrahydro-indolizines by NHC-catalyzed azolium–enolate cascade
Authors: Ghosh Arghya , Barik Shilpa , Shee Sayan , Biju Akkattu T.
Published: July 2021

NHC-catalyzed cascade reaction of enals with suitably substituted β-(hetero)aryl enones allowing the enantioselective synthesis of tetra-substituted tetralines and tetrahydro indolizines is presented.
A Mn-catalyzed remote C(sp3)–H bond peroxidation triggered by radical trifluoromethylation of unactivated alkenes
Authors: Wang Leilei , Ma Yangyang , Jiang Yuhang , Lv Leiyang , Li Zhiping
Published: July 2021

A manganese-catalyzed remote peroxidation of C(sp3)–H bonds by a 1,5-HAT mediated radical relay strategy was reported.
Two cluster-based metal–organic frameworks with selective detection of Hg2+ ion and magnetic properties
Authors: Lin Qingfang , Zong Zhihui , Tong Jing , Xie Wen , Liang Lili
Published: July 2021

Two cluster-based metal–organic frameworks have been synthesized—one exhibits highly selective fluorescent detection of trace Hg2+ and the other shows antiferromagnetic interactions between Mn3+ ions.
Characterization of amorphous LixSi structures from ReaxFF via accelerated exploration of local minima
Authors: Fernandez Francisco , Paz Sergio Alexis , Otero Manuel , Barraco Daniel , Leiva Ezequiel P. M.
Published: July 2021

Computer simulations of Si–Li amorphous alloys of interest for electrochemical experiments are performed. Accelerated exploration of local minima allows the analysis of structures in different compositions.
α-Synuclein conformations followed by vibrational optical activity. Simulation and understanding of the spectra
Authors: Kurochka Andrii , Průša Jiří , Kessler Jiří , Kapitán Josef , Bouř Petr
Published: July 2021

For α-synuclein novel structural markers were identified in vibrational optical activity spectra and supported by theoretical modeling.
Are rate and selectivity correlated in iridium-catalysed hydrogen isotope exchange reactions?
Authors: Timofeeva Daria S. , Lindsay David M. , Kerr William J. , Nelson David J.
Published: July 2021

We have qualitatively examined the relationship between reaction rate and reaction selectivity in iridium-catalysed hydrogen isotope exchange (HIE) reactions directed by Lewis basic functional groups.
Design of ternary Pt–CoZn alloy catalysts coated with N-doped carbon towards acidic oxygen reduction
Authors: Ye Xieweiyi , Xue Yakun , Li Kaijia , Tang Wen , Han Xiao , Zhang Xibo , Song Zhijia , Zheng Zhiping , Kuang Qin
Published: July 2021

N-doped carbon-coated ternary alloy catalysts (Pt–CoZn@NC) prepared by pyrolysis of Pt@ZIF precursors exhibit superior performances in the acid oxygen reduction reaction compared to binary alloy catalysts (Pt–Co@NC and Pt–Zn@NC) and commercial Pt/C.
Influence of A site cation on nonlinear band gap dependence of 2D Ruddlesden–Popper A2Pb1−xSnxI4 perovskites
Authors: Underwood Cameron C. L. , Carey J. David , Silva S. Ravi P.
Published: July 2021

Ruddlesden–Popper phase (RPP) perovskites of the form A1n−1A22BnX3n+1 show great promise in stable photovoltaic (PV) devices or as light emitting diodes (LEDs), by allowing for the mixing of 2D materials and tuning of the band gap over a large energy range.
Pillar[6]arene-modified gold nanoparticles grafted on cellulose nanocrystals for the electrochemical detection of bisphenol A
Authors: Tan Xiaoping , Yang Hongxing , Ran Xin , Li Zhi , Zhang Lianpeng , Gao Wei , Zhou Xiaojian , Du Guanben , Yang Long
Published: July 2021

The as-prepared CNCs@CP6-AuNP nanohybrid and its application in sensing BPA.
Alternative mechanisms of action for the apoptotic activity of terpenoid-like chalcone derivatives
Authors: Custodio Jean M. F. , Vaz Wesley F. , Bernardes Aline , Moura Andrea F. , Oliver Allen G. , Molnár Szilárd , Perjési Pál , Noda-Perez Caridad
Published: July 2021

The structural basis of the cytotoxicity of terpenoid-like chalcone derivatives.
Novel PET-pperated rosamine pH-sensor dyes with substitution pattern-tunable pKa values and temperature sensitivity
Authors: Andresen Elina , Radunz Sebastian , Resch-Genger Ute
Published: July 2021

We present the synthesis and characterization of a family of regioisomerically pure pH-sensitive rosamine fluorophores consisting of xanthene fluorophore cores and differently substituted phenol moieties.
Fibre electronics: towards scaled-up manufacturing of integrated e-textile systems
Authors: Seyedin Shayan , Carey Tian , Arbab Adrees , Eskandarian Ladan , Bohm Sivasambu , Kim Jong Min , Torrisi Felice
Published: July 2021

Advances in materials development, fabrication processes, and applications for various fibre electronics are reviewed. Their integration into multifunctional electronic textiles and the key challenges in large-scale manufacturing are discussed.
Rhenium carbonyl complexes bearing methylated triphenylphosphonium cations as antibody-free mitochondria trackers for X-ray fluorescence imaging
Authors: Schanne Gabrielle , Henry Lucas , Ong How Chee , Somogyi Andrea , Medjoubi Kadda , Delsuc Nicolas , Policar Clotilde , García Felipe , Bertrand Helene C.
Published: July 2021

A convenient rhenium-based multimodal mitochondrial-targeted probe compatible with Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Fluorescence nano-imaging.
Varied proton conductivity and photoreduction CO2 performance of isostructural heterometallic cluster based metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Wang Hai-Ning , Sun Hong-Xu , Fu Yao-Mei , Meng Xing , Zou Yan-Hong , He Yu-Ou , Yang Rui-Gang
Published: July 2021

A family of isostructural heterometallic MOFs based on Fe2M clusters serve as potential proton conductors and photocatalysts for CO2 photoreduction.
Co3Fe7 nanoparticles encapsulated in porous nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibers as bifunctional electrocatalysts for rechargeable zinc–air batteries
Authors: Liu Miaomiao , He Yulong , Zhang Jintao
Published: July 2021

The reliable electrospinning-calcination method was demonstrated to synthesize Co3Fe7 nanoparticles embedded porous carbon nanofiber as bifunctional electrocatalysts for high-performance zinc air batteries.
1,1,2-Tribromoethyl arenes: novel and highly efficient precursors for the synthesis of 1-bromoalkynes and α-bromoketones
Authors: Lin Xia , Fang Chengtao , Huang Xiaolei , Xiao Xiaohui
Published: July 2021

A novel tribromination method to prepare versatile intermediate 1,1,2-tribromoethyl arenes, which can not only be transformed to synthetically valuable 1-bromoalkynes via elimination but also be hydrolyzed to a variety of α-bromoketones, was developed.
Preparation and application of layered double hydroxide nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Yaping , Xu Huifang , Lu Song
Published: July 2021

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with unique structure and excellent properties have been widely studied in recent years.
Modulation of electrophoresis, electroosmosis and diffusion for electrical transport of proteins through a solid-state nanopore
Authors: Saharia Jugal , Bandara Y. M. Nuwan D. Y. , Karawdeniya Buddini I. , Hammond Cassandra , Alexandrakis George , Kim Min Jun
Published: July 2021

Figure shows hSTf protein translocating through a solid-state nanopore under an applied electric field and the resulting current traces. The transport mechanism is determined by the interplay of electrophoretic and electroosmotic force.
A general strategy for the synthesis of α-trifluoromethyl- and α-perfluoroalkyl-β-lactams via palladium-catalyzed carbonylation
Authors: Li Yang , Zhang Cai-Lin , Huang Wei-Heng , Sun Ning , Hao Meng , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: July 2021

β-Lactam compounds play a key role in medicinal chemistry, specifically as the most important class of antibiotics.
Covalent flexible peptide docking in Rosetta
Authors: Tivon Barr , Gabizon Ronen , Somsen Bente A. , Cossar Peter J. , Ottmann Christian , London Nir
Published: July 2021

We developed Rosetta CovPepDock, a computational pipeline for covalent peptide docking. We showed it is highly accurate in retrospective benchmarks, and applied it prospectively to design potent and selective covalent binders of 14-3-3σ.
SnNb2O6nanosheets for the electrocatalytic NRR: dual-active-center mechanism of Nb3cand Sn4c–Nb5cdimer
Authors: Li Xiaotian , Tian Ye , Wang Xiaomiao , Guo Yali , Chu Ke
Published: July 2021

The foordite SnNb2O6nanosheets deliver a high NRR activity and selectivity, attributed to the synergistic effect of Nb3cand Sn4c–Nb5cdimer in promoting the N2adsorption and activation.
Preparation, electrical and electrochemical characterizations of CuCoNiFeMn high-entropy-alloy for overall water splitting at neutral-pH
Authors: Sivanantham Arumugam , Lee Hansung , Hwang Sung Won , Ahn Byungmin , Cho In Sun
Published: July 2021

High entropy alloys (HEA), multicomponent (5 or more) alloys with an equiatomic or a near-equiatomic composition, provide a unique platform with which to engineer surface composition and active sites for developing of efficient electrocatalysts.
Interplay between nanomedicine and protein corona
Authors: Yang Min , Wu Ercan , Tang Wenjing , Qian Jun , Zhan Changyou
Published: July 2021

Protein corona (PC) severely affects the in vivo performance of nanomedicines. Regulation of interplay between nanomedicines and PC may provide a new avenue for precise medication.
Organic electrochemical transistors – from device models to a targeted design of materials
Authors: Paudel Pushpa Raj , Tropp Joshua , Kaphle Vikash , Azoulay Jason David , Lüssem Björn
Published: July 2021

Recent steady-state and transient models of organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) are summarized and used to discuss trends in the design of high-performance OECT materials.
Adenine-based polymer modified zinc oxide for efficient inverted organic solar cells
Authors: Wang Yi , Liu Ming , Chen Zhihui , Liu Yao
Published: July 2021

A nucleobase adenine (A)-based polymer passivates the defects, improves the conductivity, and reduces the work function of the ZnO nanoparticle interlayers, affording high performance inverted fullerene- or non-fullerene-based organic solar cells.
Metal–organic framework-based materials for full cell systems: a review
Authors: Zhou Jianen , Zeng Chenghui , Ou Hong , Yang Qingyun , Xie Qiongyi , Zeb Akif , Lin Xiaoming , Ali Zeeshan , Hu Lei
Published: July 2021

Applications of MOF-based materials in advanced full cell systems of lithium batteries, sodium batteries, aqueous batteries, fuel cells and other secondary batteries.
A mechanically self-locked gemini-[1]rotaxane-assembled microsphere and its properties on l-Arg controlled reversible morphology and fluorescence changes
Authors: Zhang Yun-Fei , Li Ying-Jie , Wang Zhong-Hui , Sun Xiao-Wen , Yang Qing-Yu , Dong Hong-Qiang , Zhang You-Ming , Wei Tai-Bao , Yao Hong , Lin Qi
Published: July 2021

A novel pillar[5]arene-based gemini-[1]rotaxane DEP5 was successfully designed and synthesized, the morphology and fluorescent properties of the gemini-[1]rotaxane DEP5 could be reversibly controlled by alternative addition of l-Arg and TFA.
Mechanically tunable magnetic and electronic transport properties of flexible magnetic films and their heterostructures for spintronics
Authors: Chen Xia , Mi Wenbo
Published: July 2021

The mechanically tunable magnetic and electronic transport properties of flexible magnetic films and their heterostructures for spintronics have been reviewed, where the conclusion and outlook are also presented.
Bioecological features of coccinellide in the southern Kashkadarya province, Uzbekistan
Authors: Burieva Khurshida , Mirzaeva Gulnara , Arabova Nodira , Mansurkhodjaeva Makhmuda
Published: July 2021

This research was conducted in 2019-2020 in the northern and southern administrative districts of the southern Kashkadarya province of Uzbekistan. This study on the distribution of coccinellides in agrobiocenoses has been conducted at different experimental periods. In the agrobiocenoses of Kashkadarya province, 5 subspecies of coccinellides (Scymninae, Chilocorinae, Coccidulinae, Epilachninae, and Coccinellinae), 8 tribes, and 31 species belonging to 22 genera were found. Experiments have shown that species belonging to the genera Chilocorus (Leach, 1875) are relatively rare species and are not considered specific species for cotton agrocenosis. Coccinella septempunctata was observed as the most common species. The eggs of Coccinella septempunctata were studied separately in this research. Wintering conditions in mountainous areas were also considered and particular attention was paid to the beneficial entomophagous species of coccinellides.