bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Bacteria in a Novel In Vitro Biofilm Model of Penile Prosthesis
Authors: Narasimman Manish , Ory Jesse , Bartra Sara Schesser , Plano Gregory V. , Ramasamy Ranjith
Published: April 2022

Background

Delayed infection, thought to be due to gradual biofilm formation, remains a feared complication after inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) insertion. Understanding and preventing biofilm formation is necessary to prevent infections.

Aim

To develop an in vitro model and compare growth of biofilm by different bacteria on IPPs and evaluate the anti-infective efficacy of the Coloplast Titan and AMS 700 InhibiZone.

Methods

Sterile IPPs (Coloplast) were cut into rings and incubated with S. epidermidis, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, A. baumannii, or K. pneumoniae cultures in tryptic soy broth (TSB) (4 hour) to ensure adequate bacteria attachment, and then in only TSB (120 hours) to allow for biofilm formation. Rings were fixed with ethanol and biofilm measured by spectrophotometer (OD570) after crystal violet staining. This methodology was repeated for S. epidermidis and P. aeruginosa with Coloplast rings dipped in 10 ml of a 10 mg/ml Rifampin, 1 mg/ml Gentamicin, and deionized water solution and undipped AMS InhibiZone rings. Crystal violet assay (OD570) was repeated after incubation within bacteria (2 hour), and then only TSB (120 hours).

Outcomes

The primary outcome of the study was OD570 readings, indirectly measuring biofilm mass on implant rings.

Results

S. epidermidis, S. aureus, A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae all formed significant biofilm. P. aeruginosa showed the strongest predilection to grow biofilm on IPPs. P. aeruginosa also formed significant biofilm on antibiotic-treated Coloplast and AMS rings, while S. epidermidis was inhibited. No significant difference was found in biofilm inhibition between the implants.

Clinical Translation

Our findings suggest gram-negative bacteria may form biofilm more proficiently and quickly on IPPs than gram-positive organisms. Commonly used antibiotic treatments on IPPs may be effective against S. epidermidis but not against P. aeruginosa biofilm formation.

Strengths & Limitations

This is the first study comparing biofilm formation by different bacteria organisms on IPPs and the inhibitive ability of Coloplast and AMS implants against biofilm formation. Clinical data on organisms responsible for infected IPPs is needed to determine the clinical relevance of our findings.

Conclusion

Our novel in vitro model of biofilm formation of IPPs evaluated the effect of a gentamicin/rifampin antibiotic dip on Coloplast Titan implants and the anti-infective capacity of the minocycline/rifampin precoated AMS 700 InhibiZone against S. epidermidis and P. aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa was able to grow on both antibiotic-treated implants, with no significant difference, and should continue to be a specific target of investigation to reduce delayed post-operative IPP infections.
Quantifying Rates of Landscape Unzipping
Authors: Harrison Emma J. , McElroy Brandon , Willenbring Jane K.
Published: April 2022

Measuring rates of valley head migration and determining the timing of canyon‐opening are insightful for the evolution of planetary surfaces. Spatial gradients of in situ‐produced cosmogenic nuclide concentrations along horizontal transects provide a framework for assessing the migration of valley networks and similar topographic features. We developed a new derivation for valley head retreat rates from the concentrations of in situ‐produced cosmogenic radionuclides in valley walls. The retreat rate is inversely proportional to the magnitude of the spatial concentration gradient and proportional to local nuclide production rates. By solving for a spatial gradient in concentration along a valley parallel transect, we created an expression for the explicit determination of valley head retreat, which we refer to herein as unzipping. We applied this expression to a seepage‐derived drainage network developing along the Apalachicola River, Florida, USA. Sample concentrations along a valley margin transect varied systematically from 2.9 × 105 to 3.5 × 105 atoms/g resulting in a gradient of 160 atoms/g/m, and from this value a valley head retreat rate of 0.025 m/y was found. The discrepancy between overall network age and current rates of valley head migration suggests intermittent network growth which is consistent with glacial‐interglacial precipitation variations during the Pleistocene. This method can be applied to a wide range of Earth‐surface environments. For the 10Be system, this method should be sensitive to unzipping rates bounded between 10−6 and 100 m/y.
Upper Crustal Collapse Reconstructed the Topography and Remodeled the Fault System of the Chuandian Fragment in the Southeastern Edge of the Tibetan Plateau, Evidenced by Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility Data Sets
Authors: Tong Yabo , Yang Zhenyu , Pei Junling , Wang Heng , Wu Zhonghai , Li Jianfeng
Published: April 2022

The steps of the southeastward stepwise‐descending topography of the Chuandian Fragment (CDF) in the southeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau coincide with N‐S and NE‐SW trending faults that changed from thrusting to normal activity, indicating that since the Middle‐Late Miocene the CDF maintained an E‐W oriented extensional tectonic environment. However, the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) data sets presented herein, from the Cretaceous and Cenozoic sedimentary strata of the southeastern Tibetan Plateau and its edge, show that since ∼28.0 Ma the CDF remained within a stabilized compressional stress field, oriented NEE‐SWW. A comprehensive analysis of the AMS results, topography, fault systems, and geophysical observations indicate that the northward‐advancing eastern Himalaya syntaxis impeded the southeastward‐flowing viscous lower crust and correspondingly decreased its flux, which could have reduced the thickness of the lower crustal channel beneath the CDF. The original low‐gradient topography of the CDF formed by the viscous lower crustal flow could no longer be supported by the thinned lower crustal channel, and thus gravity drove the collapse of the uplifted CDF. This process reconstructed the topography and remodeled the preexisting fault systems of the CDF, resulting in the coexistence of the E‐W oriented extensional tectonic environment and the stabilized NEE‐SWW oriented compressional stress field of the western part of the CDF, since the Middle‐Late Miocene. Thus, the change in the status of the lower crustal channel related to block interactions provided a major geodynamic setting for shaping the topography of the southeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau.
Could “Lost Crops” Help Us Adapt to Climate Change?
Authors: Chapman Andrew
Published: April 2022

Archaeology might not solve all the agricultural challenges that climate change will bring, but it could provide important lessons and a record of new ideas.
USP26 promotes anaplastic thyroid cancer progression by stabilizing TAZ
Authors: Tang Jianing , Luo Yongwen , Xiao Liang
Published: April 2022

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is one of the most lethal and aggressive human malignancies, with no effective treatment currently available. The Hippo tumor suppressor pathway is highly conserved in mammals and plays an important role in carcinogenesis. TAZ is one of major key effectors of the Hippo pathway. However, the mechanism supporting abnormal TAZ expression in ATC remains to be characterized. In the present study, we identified USP26, a DUB enzyme in the ubiquitin-specific proteases family, as a bona fide deubiquitylase of TAZ in ATC. USP26 was shown to interact with, deubiquitylate, and stabilize TAZ in a deubiquitylation activity-dependent manner. USP26 depletion significantly decreased ATC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The effects induced by USP26 depletion could be rescued by further TAZ overexpression. Depletion of USP26 decreased the TAZ protein level and the expression of TAZ/TEAD target genes in ATC, including CTGF, ANKRD1, and CYR61. In general, our findings establish a previously undocumented catalytic role for USP26 as a deubiquitinating enzyme of TAZ and provides a possible target for the therapy of ATC.
ICA69 aggravates ferroptosis causing septic cardiac dysfunction via STING trafficking
Authors: Kong Chang , Ni Xuqing , Wang Yixiu , Zhang Anqi , Zhang Yingying , Lin Feihong , Li Shan , Lv Ya , Zhu Jingwen , Yao Xinyu , Dai Qinxue , Mo Yunchang , Wang Junlu
Published: April 2022

Previous studies have demonstrated that cardiomyocyte apoptosis, ferroptosis, and inflammation participate in the progress of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC). Although Islet cell autoantigen 69 (ICA69) is an imperative molecule that could regulate inflammation and immune response in numerous illnesses, its function in cardiovascular disease, particularly in SIC, is still elusive. We confirmed that LPS significantly enhanced the expression of ICA69 in wild-type (WT) mice, macrophages, and cardiomyocytes. The knockout of ICA69 in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced mice markedly elevated survival ratio and heart function, while inhibiting cardiac muscle and serum inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen (ROS), and ferroptosis biomarkers. Mechanistically, increased expression of ICA69 triggered the production of STING, which further resulted in the production of intracellular lipid peroxidation, eventually triggering ferroptosis and heart injury. Intriguingly, ICA69 deficiency only reversed the ferroptotic marker levels, such as prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), malonaldehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), superoxide dismutase (SOD), iron and lipid ROS, but had no effects on the xCT-dependent manner. Additionally, greater ICA69 level was identified in septic patients peripheralblood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) than in normal control groups. Generally, we unveil that ICA69 deficiency can relieve inflammation and ferroptosis in LPS-induced murine hearts and macrophages, making targeting ICA69 in heart a potentially promising treatment method for SIC.
Ibandronate promotes autophagy by inhibiting Rac1–mTOR signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Han Jie , Yang Jian , Wang Qiqi , Yin Xiang , Sun Zewei , Huang Chaoyang , Chen Guoping , Zheng Liangrong , Jiang Dongmei
Published: April 2022

We previously reported that ibandronate (IBAN) could improve endothelial function in spontaneously hypertensive rats. However, the mechanism by which IBAN improves endothelial function is unclear. The IBAN-induced autophagic process in vitro experiments were determined by detection of LC3, Beclin1, and P62 protein levels via western blotting. The autophagy flux was detected by confocal microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. For in vivo experiments, spontaneously hypertensive rats were orally administered with IBAN. Utilizing angiotensin II (Ang II) to stimulate the human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs) as a model of endothelial cell injury in hypertension, we found that IBAN promoted autophagy and protected cell viability in Ang II-treated-endothelial cells while these effects could be reversed by autophagy inhibitor. In terms of mechanism, IBAN treatment decreased the levels of Rac1 and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Activating either Rac1 or mTOR could reverse IBAN-induced autophagy. Furthermore, the in vivo experiments also indicated that IBAN promotes autophagy by downregulating Rac1-mTOR. Taken together, our results firstly revealed that IBAN enhances autophagy via inhibiting Rac1-mTOR signaling pathway, and thus alleviates Ang II-induced injury in endothelial cells.
N6-methyladenosine demethylase FTO suppressed prostate cancer progression by maintaining CLIC4 mRNA stability
Authors: Zou Libin , Chen Wenbin , Zhou Xumin , Yang Taowei , Luo Junqi , Long Zining , Wu Jun , Lv Daojun , Mao Xiangming , Cen Shengren
Published: April 2022

The fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) is an N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase, which has been revealed to play critical roles in tumorigenesis. However, its role in the development and progression of prostate cancer (PCa) remains poorly understood. Here, we aimed to investigate the function and clinical relevance of FTO in PCa. Our results demonstrated that FTO was notably downregulated in PCa tissues compared with the paired normal tissues. In addition, the decreased expression of FTO was correlated with poor prognosis of PCa. Functional experiments showed that depletion of FTO promoted the proliferation and metastasis of PCa both in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, ectopic expression of FTO exhibited the opposite effects. Combined with RNA-sequencing, MeRIP-RT-qPCR, and mRNA stability assays indicated chloride intracellular channel 4(CLIC4) was a functional target of FTO-mediated m6A modification. FTO depletion significantly increased the m6A level of CLIC4 mRNA and then reduced the mRNA stability. In conclusion, our findings suggest that FTO suppresses PCa proliferation and metastasis through reducing the degradation of CLIC4 mRNA in an m6A dependent manner. FTO may be used as a promising novel therapeutic target and prognostic evaluation biomarker for PCa.
DCR for nasolacrimal duct stenosis may be less effective than for complete obstruction
Authors: Shapira Yinon , Macri Carmelo , Usmani Eiman , Davis Garry , Selva Dinesh
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To ascertain the success of endo-DCR in nasolacrimal duct stenosis (NLDS) versus nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO).

Methods

Consecutive adult patients with epiphora attending a tertiary lacrimal clinic from February 2012 to February 2021 were reviewed. NLDS was diagnosed by patent lacrimal syringing and combined dacryocystography (NLD stenosis) and dacryoscintigraphy (post-sac delay) findings in all eyes. Cases with evidence of canalicular stenosis or other identifiable causes of epiphora were excluded. The epiphora resolution and improvement rates following endo-DCR were compared between NLDS and complete NLDO cases.

Results

DCRs in 24 NLDS (23 patients, 69.6% females, mean age 61.0 ± 17.07) and 58 NLDO (56 patients, 69.6% females, mean age 61.9 ± 17.4) were included. Resolution of epiphora was achieved in 10 (41.7% [95% CI 0.24–0.61]) of the NLDS cases compared to 40 (69.0% [95% CI 0.56–0.79]) in NLDO (p = 0.021). Improvement of epiphora (i.e., either improvement or resolution) was noted in 17 (70.8% [95% CI 0.51–0.85]) of NLDS and 53 (91.4% [95% CI 0.81–0.96]) of NLDO cases (p = 0.034). Three patients (12.5%) with NLDS had subsequent lacrimal procedures (one DCR revision, two Jones tube) at a median of 14 (range 11–21) months. 71.4% of the NLDS patients responded to a phone questionnaire at a median of 93 months postoperatively. Of these, 46.7% reported resolution or significant improvement, and 33.3% reported slight improvement. 64.3% said they would recommend DCR to others suffering from epiphora.

Conclusion

Endo-DCR may benefit approximately 70% of patients with NLDS. The success of endo-DCR in complete NLDO may be higher.
The efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for negative symptoms in schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lorentzen Rasmus , Nguyen Tuan D. , McGirr Alexander , Hieronymus Fredrik , Østergaard Søren D.
Published: April 2022

Several trials have shown preliminary evidence for the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a treatment for negative symptoms in schizophrenia. Here, we synthesize this literature in a systematic review and quantitative meta-analysis of double-blind randomized controlled trials of TMS in patients with schizophrenia. Specifically, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched for sham-controlled, randomized trials of TMS among patients with schizophrenia. The effect of TMS vs. sham on negative symptoms in each study was quantified by the standardized mean difference (SMD, Cohen’s d) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) and pooled across studies using an inverse variance random effects model. We identified 57 studies with a total of 2633 participants that were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled analysis showed statistically significant superiority of TMS (SMD = 0.41, 95%CI: 0.26; 0.56, p-value < 0.001), corresponding to a number needed to treat of 5. Furthermore, stratified analyses suggested that TMS targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and using a stimulation frequency >1 Hz was most efficacious. There was, however, substantial heterogeneity and high risk of bias among the included studies. In conclusion, TMS appears to be an efficacious treatment option for patients with schizophrenia suffering from negative symptoms, but the optimal TMS parameters are yet to be established.
Dental tissue remineralization by bioactive calcium phosphate nanoparticles formulations
Authors: Ionescu Andrei Cristian , Degli Esposti Lorenzo , Iafisco Michele , Brambilla Eugenio
Published: April 2022

Recent health care products are based on formulations claimed to provide enamel remineralization and dentinal tubules occlusion through calcium-phosphate bioactive nanocompounds (ion-doped hydroxyapatite and precursor, amorphous calcium phosphate nanoparticles). This study aimed to characterize, test, and compare for the first time the structure and performance of a representative, market-available sample of remineralizing toothpastes and topical mousses. Formulations were characterized to determine their composition and investigate the presence of bioactive compounds and doping elements. A conventional fluoride-containing toothpaste was used as reference. The enamel remineralization and efficacy of dentinal tubules occlusion by tested formulations were investigated ex vivo on human hard tissues. All formulations containing Ca-P bioactive nanocompounds showed remineralizing ability by epitaxial growth of a layer showing the morphology and composition of human hydroxyapatite. Such layers also embedded nanosilica clusters. The presence of doping elements or casein phosphopeptide seemed essential to allow such performances, especially when hydroxyapatite and amorphous calcium phosphate compounds were doped with small amounts of CO32−, F−, Mg2+, and Sr2+. Topical mousse formulations showed a higher tubules occlusion capability than toothpastes, independently from their composition. Therefore, all tested formulations could be useful in restoring tooth structures in a biomimetic way, contrasting dental demineralization processes leading to caries.
Transparent and flexible passivation of MoS2/Ag nanowire with sputtered polytetrafluoroethylene film for high performance flexible heaters
Authors: Choi Seung-Gyun , Seok Hae-Jun , Kim Jihyun , Kang Joohoon , Kim Han-Ki
Published: April 2022

We demonstrated highly transparent and flexible polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) passivation for the MoS2/Ag nanowire (Ag NW) electrodes used in thin film heaters (TFHs). The electrical, optical, and mechanical properties of PTFE coated MoS2/Ag NW electrode were compared to the bare MoS2/Ag NW electrode to demonstrate effective passivation of the sputtered PTFE films before and after the 85 °C–85% temperature-relative humidity environment test. In addition, we investigated the performances of TFHs with PTFE/MoS2/Ag NW as a function of PTFE thickness from 50 to 200 nm. The saturation temperature (87.3 °C) of TFHs with PTFE/MoS2/Ag NW electrode is higher than that (61.3 °C) of TFHs with bare MoS2/Ag NW, even after the 85 °C–85% temperature-relative humidity environment test, due to effective passivation of the PTFE layer. This indicates that transparent PTFE film prepared by sputtering process provides effective thin film passivation for the two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 and Ag NW hybrid electrode against harsh environment condition.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor and Krüppel like factor 10 mediate a transcriptional axis modulating immune homeostasis in mosquitoes
Authors: Kulkarni Aditi , Pandey Ashmita , Trainor Patrick , Carlisle Samantha , Yu Wanqin , Kukutla Phanidhar , Xu Jiannong
Published: April 2022

Immune responses require delicate controls to maintain homeostasis while executing effective defense. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor. The Krüppel-like factor 10 (KLF10) is a C2H2 zinc-finger containing transcription factor. The functions of mosquito AhR and KLF10 have not been characterized. Here we show that AhR and KLF10 constitute a transcriptional axis to modulate immune responses in mosquito Anopheles gambiae. The manipulation of AhR activities via agonists or antagonists repressed or enhanced the mosquito antibacterial immunity, respectively. KLF10 was recognized as one of the AhR target genes in the context. Phenotypically, silencing KLF10 reversed the immune suppression caused by the AhR agonist. The transcriptome comparison revealed that silencing AhR and KLF10 plus challenge altered the expression of 2245 genes in the same way. The results suggest that KLF10 is downstream of AhR in a transcriptional network responsible for immunomodulation. This AhR–KLF10 axis regulates a set of genes involved in metabolism and circadian rhythms in the context. The axis was required to suppress the adverse effect caused by the overactivation of the immune pathway IMD via the inhibitor gene Caspar silencing without a bacterial challenge. These results demonstrate that the AhR–KLF10 axis mediates an immunoregulatory transcriptional network as a negative loop to maintain immune homeostasis.
The influence of city development on urban pedodiversity
Authors: Pindral Sylwia , Kot Rafał , Hulisz Piotr
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to use a pedodiversity index (PI) to assess changes in the spatial structure of soil cover in Inowrocław, Poland during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. An original cartographic approach based on landscape metrics was implemented using GIS techniques and statistical calculations. Based on maps of urban soil complexes and pedodiversity, it was revealed that land and soil cover changes in two studied periods (1934–1978 and 1978–2016) significantly affected pedodiversity in the city. In general, the spatio-temporal increase of the pedodiversity index was observed. The percentage of highest values of the PI ranged from 15.9% in 1934, 17.3% in 1978 to 20.9% in 2016. We revealed that pedodiversity index (PI) values are highly spatially and temporally variable and are associated with urban development and changes in the city’s internal structure. The applied approach allowed for the identification of both spatial patterns of changes in soil cover that closely reflect the successive stages of the city's development, and problem areas that require revitalization and the implementation of the principles of sustainable development. Therefore, the proposed method can be recommended for landscape monitoring and in determining ecosystem services in urban and landscape planning, and environmental management.
Production and characterization of a broad-spectrum antimicrobial 5-butyl-2-pyridine carboxylic acid from Aspergillus fumigatus nHF-01
Authors: Mandal Vivekananda , Ghosh Narendra Nath , Mitra Prashanta Kumar , Mandal Sukhendu , Mandal Vivekananda
Published: April 2022

The present study aims at the production optimization, purification, and characterization of a potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound (AMC) produced by Aspergillus fumigatus nHF-01 (GenBank Ac. No. MN190286). The culture conditions were optimized for a higher amount of AMC. The AMC was solvent extracted and characterized by UV–Vis, FT–IR, ESI–MS, and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The MIC, MBC and mode of action were determined against a set of Gram-positive and Gram-negative human pathogenic bacteria. Its antibiofilm, synergistic and cytotoxic effects were also tested. The putative target site of action was evaluated through in silico molecular docking study. The stain A. fumigatus nHF-01 produced the maximum AMC (5-butyl-2-pyridine carboxylic acid) in 2% MEB (w/v) and 4% YE (w/v) at pH 6.0 and 20 °C temperature with 100 rpm agitation for ten days. It caused complete lethality of the Gram-positive and Gram-negative human pathogenic bacteria at a 129 µg/mL dose by rupture and entire dissolution of cell integrity. It showed moderate antibiofilm activity and had a synergistic activity with streptomycin and additive effects with ciprofloxacin and vancomycin. It targets a respiratory enzyme, Quinol-Fumarate Reductase (1l0v), with the highest binding affinities. It had cytotoxicity against human lung carcinoma A549 cell line and was stable up to 100 °C. Thus, the study revealed that the strain A. fumigatus nHF-01 produces a potent broad-spectrum AMC 5-butyl-2-pyridine carboxylic acid that could be used against human food and topical pathogenic bacteria. This is the first report of such a compound produced from the A. fumigatus.
An amorphous ultrathin iridium/carbon catalyst realizing efficient electrochemical hydrogen evolution
Authors: Hao Jing , Hou Jie , Wei Hehe , Su Zixiang , Li Hui , Zhang Longtao , Gong Xueqing
Published: April 2022

An amorphous 1.1 nm Ir/C catalyst exhibits an ultralow 10 mV overpotential, 117 A mg−1 mass activity and outstanding long-term durability, superior to those of the commercial Pt/C catalyst.
Ruthenium photosensitizer anchored gold nanorods for synergistic photodynamic and photothermal therapy
Authors: Shi Hongdong , Lin Simin , Wang Yi , Lou Jingxue , Hu Yatao , Chen Yuyu , Zhang Qianling
Published: April 2022

A nanodrug with ruthenium photosensitizers anchored in the nanocarrier of human serum albumin coated gold nanorods was developed for synergistic photodynamic and photothermal therapy.
Structure, bonding and adaptive aromaticity in rhenium-oxo complexes: a DFT study
Authors: Ye Qingfu , Zhu Jun
Published: April 2022

The concept of adaptive aromaticity has been extended to a rhenium-oxo complex, introducing a new member into this novel family.
Multicomponent synthesis of fully substituted thiazoles using glycine-based dithiocarbamates, acetic anhydride and nitroalkenes
Authors: Ziyaei Halimehjani Azim , Saeb Maryam , Khalesi Maryam
Published: April 2022

Fully substituted thiazoles were synthesizedviathe reaction of glycine-based dithiocarbamates with nitroalkenes in the presence of acetic anhydride. The reactions were performed under metal- and solvent-free conditions at comfortable temperatures.
Dielectric response of 1,1-difluorosumanene caused by an in-plane motion
Authors: Li Minghong , Wu JianYun , Sambe Kohei , Yakiyama Yumi , Akutagawa Tomoyuki , Kajitani Takashi , Fukushima Takanori , Matsuda Kazunari , Sakurai Hidehiro
Published: April 2022

A large dipole moment of 1,1-difluorosumanene realized a 120° in-plane pendulum motion in the stacking columns at above 380 K. This dynamic motion in the solid state enabled anisotropic dielectric relaxation induced by the external electric field.
Sulfur(iv)-mediated umpolung α-heterofunctionalization of 2-oxazolines
Authors: Zhang Qifeng , Liang Yuchen , Li Ruiqi , Huang Ziyi , Kong Lichun , Du Peng , Peng Bo
Published: April 2022

Aryl sulfonium salts serving as a new type of carbonyl umpolung reagent enable direct α-heterofunctionalization of 2-oxazolines.
Air2Land: A deep learning dataset for unmanned aerial vehicle autolanding from air to land
Authors: Zheng Xunchen , Hu Tianjiang
Published: April 2022

In this paper, a novel deep learning dataset, called Air2Land, is presented for advancing the state‐of‐the‐art object detection and pose estimation in the context of one fixed‐wing unmanned aerial vehicle autolanding scenarios. It bridges vision and control for ground‐based vision guidance systems having the multi‐modal data obtained by diverse sensors and pushes forward the development of computer vision and autopilot algorithms targeted at visually assisted landing of one fixed‐wing vehicle. The dataset is composed of sequential stereo images and synchronised sensor data, in terms of the flying vehicle pose and Pan‐Tilt Unit angles, simulated in various climate conditions and landing scenarios. Since real‐world automated landing data is very limited, the proposed dataset provides the necessary foundation for vision‐based tasks such as flying vehicle detection, key point localisation, pose estimation etc. Hereafter, in addition to providing plentiful and scene‐rich data, the developed dataset covers high‐risk scenarios that are hardly accessible in reality. The dataset is also open and available at https://github.com/micros‐uav/micros_air2land as well.

The cover image is based on the Research Article Air2Land: A deep learning dataset for unmanned aerial vehicle autolanding from air to land by Tianjiang Hu et al., https://doi.org/10.1049/csy2.12045.
Reliability interdependencies and causality assessment for a converter‐penetrated power system
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Wang Mengqi , Su Wencong
Published: April 2022

This paper utilizes Bayesian network (BN) structure searching and scoring algorithms to identify critical nodes and investigate their reliability interdependencies for a power system under great converter penetration. As more converters are integrated into the system, reliability interactions among various converters will frequently emerge and consequently introduce system reliability concerns. However, reliability causal relations have rarely been explored and demonstrated in a clear manner. Therefore, the authors apply BN structure searching and scoring algorithms to visualize the proposed converter‐based BN structure. Moreover, reliability interactions among different nodes are quantified through information entropy theory. Numerical case studies illustrate the causal reliability relationship among various nodes while considering the reliability of all integrated converters. Critical nodes are identified such that system operators can improve the converter maintenance scheduling.
A new pilot protection scheme for modular multi‐level converter‐based HVDC system based on voltage matching factor
Authors: Ma Jing , Xiao Zhaohang , Li Yongli , Zhang Jun , Wu Bin , Li Zhenbin , Ma Ruichen , Huang Weibo , Cheng Peng
Published: April 2022

Concerning the incorrect operation of line protection in modular multi‐level converter‐based multi‐terminal DC system, a pilot protection method based on voltage matching factor is proposed. First, the dynamic switching process of flexible DC converter sub‐module is analyzed, and the expression of DC voltage of converter station considering the influence of alternating current (AC) system is derived. On this basis, the model of DC line voltage considering the influence of AC injection current is built, and the equivalent DC line voltage is calculated according to the voltage model. Then, by constructing the distortion factor which reflects the difference between the equivalent DC line voltage and actual DC line voltage, the protection criterion for the identification of internal and external faults is established. Finally, simulation tests on real time laboratory (RT‐LAB) platform verify that the proposed scheme can correctly distinguish between internal and external faults in different fault cases, with fast operation speed and strong immunity to the fault resistance.
One Star to Tag Them All (OSTTA)
Authors: Carrera R. , Casamiquela L. , Bragaglia A. , Carretta E. , Carbajo-Hijarrubia J. , Jordi C. , Alonso-Santiago J. , Balaguer-Nuñez L. , Baratella M. , D’Orazi V. , Lucatello S. , Soubiran C.
Published: April 2022

Context. Open clusters are ideal laboratories to investigate a variety of astrophysical topics, from the properties of the Galactic disc to stellar evolution models. For this purpose, we need to know their chemical composition in detail. Unfortunately, the number of systems with chemical abundances determined from high resolution spectroscopy remains small.

Aims. Our aim is to increase the number of open clusters with radial velocities and chemical abundances determined from high resolution spectroscopy by sampling a few stars in clusters which had not been previously studied.

Methods. We obtained high resolution spectra with the FIbre-fed Echelle Spectrograph at Nordic Optical Telescope for 41 stars belonging to 20 open clusters. These stars have high astrometric membership probabilities determined from the Gaia second data release.

Results. We derived radial velocites for all the observed stars which were used to confirm their membership to the corresponding clusters. For Gulliver 37, we cannot be sure the observed star is a real member. We derived atmospheric parameters for the 32 stars considered to be real cluster members. We discarded five stars because they have very low gravity or their atmospheric parameters were not properly constrained due to low signal-to-noise ratio spectra. Therefore, detailed chemical abundances were determined for 28 stars belonging to 17 clusters. For most of them, this is the first chemical analysis available in the literature. Finally, we compared the clusters in our sample to a large population of well-studied clusters. The studied systems follow the trends, both chemical and kinematical, described by the majority of open clusters. It is worth mentioning that the three most metal-poor studied clusters (NGC 1027, NGC 1750, and Trumpler 2) are enhanced in Si, but not in the other α-elements studied (Mg, Ca, and Ti).
Spectacular 240 kpc double-sided relativistic jets in a spiral-hosted narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy
Authors: Vietri A. , Järvelä E. , Berton M. , Ciroi S. , Congiu E. , Chen S. , Di Mille F.
Published: April 2022

Narrow-line Seyfert 1 (NLS1) galaxies are a peculiar sub-class of active galactic nuclei (AGNe). They have demonstrated that the presence of relativistic jets in an AGN is not strictly related to its radio-loudness, the black hole mass, or their host galaxy type. Here, we present a remarkable example of a radio-quiet NLS1, 6dFGS gJ035432.8−134008 (J0354−1340). In ourKarl G. JanskyVery Large Array observations at 5.5 GHz, the source shows a bright core with a flat spectral index and extended emission corresponding to very elongated jets. These are the largest double-sided radio jets found to date in an NLS1, with a de-projected linear size of almost 250 kpc. We also analysed near-infrared and optical images obtained by theMagellan Baadeand the European Southern Observatory New Technology Telescope. By means of photometric decomposition and colour maps, we determined that J0354−1340 is hosted by a spiral or disc-like galaxy. Fully evolved relativistic jets have traditionally been associated with high-mass elliptical galaxies hosting the most massive black holes. Instead, our results confirm that powerful jets can also be launched and sustained by less massive black holes in spiral galaxies, implying that the launching of the jets is governed by factors other than those previously believed to be at play.
Storm time neutral density assimilation in the thermosphere ionosphere with TIDA
Authors: Codrescu Mihail V. , Codrescu Stefan M. , Fedrizzi Mariangel
Published: April 2022

To improve Thermosphere–Ionosphere modeling during disturbed conditions, data assimilation schemes that can account for the large and fast-moving gradients moving through the modeled domain are necessary. We argue that this requires a physics based background model with a non-stationary covariance. An added benefit of using physics-based models would be improved forecasting capability over largely persistence-based forecasts of empirical models. As a reference implementation, we have developed an ensemble Kalman Filter (enKF) software called Thermosphere Ionosphere Data Assimilation (TIDA) using the physics-based Coupled Thermosphere Ionosphere Plasmasphere electrodynamics (CTIPe) model as the background. In this paper, we present detailed results from experiments during the 2003 Halloween Storm, 27–31 October 2003, under very disturbed (Kp = 9) conditions while assimilating GRACE-A and B, and CHAMP neutral density measurements. TIDA simulates this disturbed period without using the L1 solar wind measurements, which were contaminated by solar energetic protons, by estimating the model drivers from the density measurements. We also briefly present statistical results for two additional storms: September 27 – October 2, 2002, and July 26 – 30, 2004, to show that the improvement in assimilated neutral density specification is not an artifact of the corrupted forcing observations during the 2003 Halloween Storm. By showing statistical results from assimilating one satellite at a time, we show that TIDA produces a coherent global specification for neutral density throughout the storm – a critical capability in calculating satellite drag and debris collision avoidance for space traffic management.
Lifetime serum concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH) is associated with hand grip strengths: insight from a Mendelian randomisation
Authors: Mazidi Mohsen , Davies Ian G , Penson Peter , Rikkonen Toni , Isanejad Masoud
Published: April 2022

Clinical trials have suggested that increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) has positive effect on hand grip strength. This Mendelian randomisation (MR) was implemented using summary-level data from the largest genome-wide association studies on vitamin D (n = 73,699) and hand grip strength. Inverse variance weighted method (IVW) was used to estimate the causal estimates. Weighted median (WM)-based method, MR-Egger and leave-one-out were applied as sensitivity analysis. Results showed that genetically higher-serum 25(OH)D levels had a positive effect on both right hand grip (IVW = Beta: 0.038, P = 0.030) and left hand grip (IVW = Beta: 0.034, P = 0.036). There was a low likelihood (statistically insignificant) of heterogeneity and pleiotropy, and the observed associations were not driven by single single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Furthermore, MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier did not highlight any outliers. In conclusion, our results highlighted the causal and beneficial effect of serum 25(OH) D on right- and left-hand grip strengths.
Ninjin'yoeito, a traditional Japanese medicine, attenuates age-related deficits of muscle performance, self-care motivation, and body temperature in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Matsubara Yosuke , Miyama Yuko , Imai Ryota , Oizumi Hiroaki , Miyazaki Shinji , Haneda Eisuke , Mizuno Keita , Omiya Yuji , Ikeda Yoshiki , Mizoguchi Kazushige
Published: April 2022

As both physiological and psychological factors influence age-associated declines in older people, the development of drug therapy with multifaceted effects is required. To investigate the utility of ninjin'yoeito (NYT) against geriatric syndromes, we evaluated the effects of NYT on age-related declines in old C57BL/6 mice (88-week-old) as a pre-clinical model of frailty progression. Here, we showed that NYT reversed the decline of rectal temperature in old mice, and also improved forelimb grip strength compared to that in the old control group without affecting skeletal muscle loss. Moreover, NYT significantly increased the duration of grooming after a sucrose solution was sprayed, which reflected self-care motivation. Finally, we revealed the anti-oxidant effects of NYT using a cell-free assay. These results suggest that NYT can improve both physiological and psychological declines associated with aging, and the mechanism may include anti-oxidant effects. NYT may have potential utility for maintaining the health of older people.
Antiretroviral Initiation at ≥800 CD4+ Cells/mm3 Associated With Lower Human Immunodeficiency Virus Reservoir Size
Authors: Rasmussen Thomas A , Ahuja Sunil K , Kuwanda Locadiah , Vjecha Michael J , Hudson Fleur , Lal Luxshimi , Rhodes Ajantha , Chang Judy , Palmer Sarah , Auberson-Munderi Paula , Mugerwa Henry , Wood Robin , Badal-Faesen Sharlaa , Pillay Sandy , Mngqibisa Rosie , LaRosa Alberto , Hildago Jose , Petoumenos Kathy , Chiu Chris , Lutaakome Joseph , Kitonsa Jonathan , Kabaswaga Esther , Pala Pietro , Ganoza Carmela , Fisher Katie , Chang Christina , Lewin Sharon R , Wright Edwina J
Published: April 2022

Background

Identifying factors that determine the frequency of latently infected CD4+ T cells on antiretroviral therapy (ART) may inform strategies for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cure. We investigated the role of CD4+ count at ART initiation for HIV persistence on ART.

Methods

Among participants of the Strategic Timing of Antiretroviral Treatment Study, we enrolled people with HIV (PWH) who initiated ART with CD4+ T-cell counts of 500–599, 600–799, or ≥ 800 cells/mm3. After 36–44 months on ART, the levels of total HIV-DNA, cell-associated unspliced HIV-RNA (CA-US HIV-RNA), and two-long terminal repeat HIV-DNA in CD4+ T cells were quantified and plasma HIV-RNA was measured by single-copy assay. We measured T-cell expression of Human Leucocyte Antigen-DR Isotype (HLA-DR), programmed death-1, and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-5 (pSTAT5). Virological and immunological measures were compared across CD4+ strata.

Results

We enrolled 146 PWH, 36 in the 500–599, 60 in the 600–799, and 50 in the ≥ 800 CD4 strata. After 36–44 months of ART, total HIV-DNA, plasma HIV-RNA, and HLA-DR expression were significantly lower in PWH with CD4+ T-cell count ≥ 800 cells/mm3 at ART initiation compared with 600–799 or 500–599 cells/mm3. The median level of HIV-DNA after 36–44 months of ART was lower by 75% in participants initiating ART with ≥ 800 vs 500–599 cells/mm3 (median [interquartile range]: 16.3 [7.0–117.6] vs 68.4 [13.7–213.1] copies/million cells, respectively). Higher pSTAT5 expression significantly correlated with lower levels of HIV-DNA and CA-US HIV-RNA. Virological measures were significantly lower in females.

Conclusions

Initiating ART with a CD4+ count ≥ 800 cells/mm3 compared with 600–799 or 500–599 cells/mm3 was associated with achieving a substantially smaller HIV reservoir on ART.
Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2-Spike-reactive antibody and T-cell responses in chronic kidney disease patients within 3 months after COVID-19 full vaccination
Authors: Panizo Nayara , Albert Eliseo , Giménez-Civera Elena , Puchades Maria Jesús , D'Marco Luis , Gandía-Salmerón Lorena , Giménez Estela , Torre Ignacio , Sancho Asunción , Gavela Eva , Gonzalez-Rico Miguel , Montomoli Marco , Perez-Baylach Carmen Maria , Bonilla Begoña , Solano Camila , Alvarado Mª Fernanda , Torregrosa Isidro , Alcaraz María Jesús , Górriz José Luis , Navarro David
Published: April 2022

Background

Little is known regarding the dynamics of antibody and T-cell responses in chronic kidney disease (CKD) following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination.

Methods

Prospective observational cohort study including 144 participants on haemodialysis (HD) (n = 52) or peritoneal dialysis (PD) (n = 14), those undergoing kidney transplantation (KT) (n = 30) or those with advanced CKD (ACKD) not on dialysis and healthy controls (n = 18). Anti-Spike (S) antibody and T-cell responses were assessed at 15 days (15D) and 3 months (3M) after complete vaccination schedule. HD, PD and KT patients received mRNA vaccines (mRNA-123 and BNT162b2). Most ACKD patients received BNT162b2 (n = 23), or Ad26.COV.2.S (4). Most controls received BNT162b2 (n = 12), or Ad26.COV.2.S (n = 5).

Results

Anti-S antibodies at 15D and 3M were detectable in 95% (48/50)/98% (49/50) of HD patients, 93% (13/14)/100% of PD patients, 67% (17/26)/75% (21/28) of KT patients and 96% (25/26)/100% (24/24) of ACKD patients. Rates for healthy controls were 81% (13/16)/100% (17/17). Previous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2-S) infection was documented in four (7.7%) HD patients, two (14.3%) PD patients, two (6.7%) KT patients, one (5.55%) healthy control and in no ACKD patient. Antibody levels decreased at 3M in HD (P = .04), PD (P = .008) and ACKD patients (P = .0009). In KT patients, levels increased (P = .04) between 15D and 3M, although they were low at both time points.

T-cell responses were detected in HD patients in 37 (80%) at baseline, 35 (70%) at 15D and 41 (91%) at 3M. In PD patients, T-cell responses appeared in 8 (67%) at baseline, 13 (93%) at 15D and 9 (100%) at 3M. In KT patients, T-cell responses were detected in 12 (41%) at baseline, 22 (84%) at 15D and 25 (96%) at 3M. In ACKD patients, T-cell responses were detected in 13 (46%) at baseline, 20 (80%) at 15D and 17 (89%) at 3M. None of healthy controls showed T-cell response at baseline, 10 (67%) at 15D and 8 (89%) at 3M.

Conclusions

Most HD, PD and ACKD patients develop SARS-CoV-2-S antibody responses comparable to that of healthy controls, in contrast to KT recipients. Antibody waning at 3M was faster in HD, PD and ACKD patients. No differences in SARS-CoV-2 T-cell immunity responses were noticed across study groups.
Anomalously high abundance ofCrocosphaerain the South Pacific Gyre
Authors: Benavides Mar , Caffin Mathieu , Duhamel Solange , Foster Rachel Ann , Grosso Olivier , Guieu Cécile , Van Wambeke France , Bonnet Sophie
Published: April 2022

The unicellular diazotrophic cyanobacterium Crocosphaera contributes significantly to fixed nitrogen inputs in the oligotrophic ocean. In the western tropical South Pacific Ocean (WTSP), these diazotrophs abound thanks to the phosphorus-rich waters provided by the South Equatorial Current, and iron provided aeolian and subsurface volcanic activity. East of the WTSP, the South Pacific Gyre (SPG) harbors the most oligotrophic and transparent waters of the world's oceans, where only heterotrophic diazotrophs have been reported before. Here, in the SPG, we detected unexpected accumulation of Crocosphaera at 50 m with peak abundances of 5.26 × 105 nifH gene copies l–1. The abundance of Crocosphaera at 50 m was in the same order of magnitude as those detected westwards in the WTSP and represented 100% of volumetric N2 fixation rates. This accumulation at 50 m was likely due to a deeper penetration of UV light in the clear waters of the SPG being detrimental for Crocosphaera growth and N2 fixation activity. Nutrient and trace metal addition experiments did not induce any significant changes in N2 fixation or Crocosphaera abundance, indicating that this population was not limited by the resources tested and could develop in high numbers despite the oligotrophic conditions. Our findings indicate that the distribution of Crocosphaera can extend into subtropical gyres and further understanding of their controlling factors is needed.