bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A neuropsychosocial signature predicts longitudinal symptom changes in women with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Bhatt Ravi R. , Gupta Arpana , Labus Jennifer S. , Liu Cathy , Vora Priten P. , Jean Stains  , Naliboff Bruce D. , Mayer Emeran A.
Published: November 2021

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of brain-gut interactions characterized by chronic abdominal pain, altered bowel movements, often accompanied by somatic and psychiatric comorbidities. We aimed to test the hypothesis that a baseline phenotype composed of multi-modal neuroimaging and clinical features predicts clinical improvement on the IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) at 3 and 12 months without any targeted intervention. Female participants (N = 60) were identified as “improvers” (50-point decrease on IBS-SSS from baseline) or “non-improvers.” Data integration analysis using latent components (DIABLO) was applied to a training and test dataset to determine whether a limited number of sets of multiple correlated baseline’omics data types, including brain morphometry, anatomical connectivity, resting-state functional connectivity, and clinical features could accurately predict improver status. The derived predictive models predicted improvement status at 3-months and 12-months with 91% and 83% accuracy, respectively. Across both time points, non-improvers were classified as having greater correlated morphometry, anatomical connectivity and resting-state functional connectivity characteristics within salience and sensorimotor networks associated with greater pain unpleasantness, but lower default mode network integrity and connectivity. This suggests that non-improvers have a greater engagement of attentional systems to perseverate on painful visceral stimuli, predicting IBS exacerbation. The ability of baseline multimodal brain-clinical signatures to predict symptom trajectories may have implications in guiding integrative treatment in the age of precision medicine, such as treatments targeted at changing attentional systems such as mindfulness or cognitive behavioral therapy.
HACE1-mediated NRF2 activation causes enhanced malignant phenotypes and decreased radiosensitivity of glioma cells
Authors: Da Chenxing , Pu Jun , Liu Zhe , Wei Jing , Qu Yiping , Wu Yongxing , Shi Bingyin , Yang Jian , He Nongyue , Hou Peng
Published: November 2021

HACE1, an E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase, is frequently inactivated and has been evidenced as a putative tumor suppressor in different types of cancer. However, its role in glioma remains elusive. Here, we observed increased expression of HACE1 in gliomas related to control subjects, and found a strong correlation of high HACE1 expression with poor prognosis in patients with WHO grade III and IV as well as low-grade glioma (LGG) patients receiving radiotherapy. HACE1 knockdown obviously suppressed malignant behaviors of glioma cells, while ectopic expression of HACE1 enhanced cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Further studies revealed that HACE1 enhanced protein stability of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) by competitively binding to NRF2 with another E3 ligase KEAP1. Besides, HACE1 also promoted internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-mediated mRNA translation of NRF2. These effects did not depend on its E3 ligase activity. Finally, we demonstrated that HACE1 dramatically reduced cellular ROS levels by activating NRF2, thereby decreasing the response of glioma cells to radiation. Altogether, our data demonstrate that HACE1 causes enhanced malignant phenotypes and decreased radiosensitivity of glioma cells by activating NRF2, and indicate that it may act as the role of prognostic factor and potential therapeutic target in glioma.
Breaking down barriers on PV trade will facilitate global carbon mitigation
Authors: Wang Mudan , Mao Xianqiang , Xing Youkai , Lu Jianhong , Song Peng , Liu Zhengyan , Guo Zhi , Tu Kevin , Zusman Eric
Published: November 2021

The global trade of solar photovoltaic (PV) products substantially contributes to increases in solar power generation and carbon emissions reductions. This paper depicts global PV product trade patterns, explores emissions reduction potential, and evaluates the impeding effect of tariff barriers on global PV product trade and emissions reductions. Solar power generation will result in a reduction of emissions in a range of 50–180 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) between 2017 and 2060 in a business as usual (BAU) scenario. Compared with BAU, during 2017–2060, global total solar cell and module production and installation will increase by roughly 750 gigawatts (GW) if half of the status quo trade barrier are removed, while it will decrease by 160–370 GW under tensioned trade barrier scenarios. Trade barrier reduction by half from the 2017 status quo level will increase the net carbon emissions mitigation potential by 4–12 GtCO2e by 2060, while extra trade barrier imposition will result in global net carbon emissions mitigation potential decreasing by up to 3–4 GtCO2e by 2060. Well-coordinated policy and institutional reforms are recommended to facilitate PV product trade and to deliver the related global environmental benefits.
Listeria monocytogenes faecal carriage is common and depends on the gut microbiota
Authors: Hafner Lukas , Pichon Maxime , Burucoa Christophe , Nusser Sophie H. A. , Moura Alexandra , Garcia-Garcera Marc , Lecuit Marc
Published: November 2021

Listeria genus comprises two pathogenic species, L. monocytogenes (Lm) and L. ivanovii, and non-pathogenic species. All can thrive as saprophytes, whereas only pathogenic species cause systemic infections. Identifying Listeria species’ respective biotopes is critical to understand the ecological contribution of Listeria virulence. In order to investigate the prevalence and abundance of Listeria species in various sources, we retrieved and analyzed 16S rRNA datasets from MG-RAST metagenomic database. 26% of datasets contain Listeria sensu stricto sequences, and Lm is the most prevalent species, most abundant in soil and host-associated environments, including 5% of human stools. Lm is also detected in 10% of human stool samples from an independent cohort of 900 healthy asymptomatic donors. A specific microbiota signature is associated with Lm faecal carriage, both in humans and experimentally inoculated mice, in which it precedes Lm faecal carriage. These results indicate that Lm faecal carriage is common and depends on the gut microbiota, and suggest that Lm faecal carriage is a crucial yet overlooked consequence of its virulence.
Promoting ethylene production over a wide potential window on Cu crystallites induced and stabilized via current shock and charge delocalization
Authors: Sun Hao , Chen Ling , Xiong Likun , Feng Kun , Chen Yufeng , Zhang Xiang , Yuan Xuzhou , Yang Baiyu , Deng Zhao , Liu Yu , Rümmeli Mark H. , Zhong Jun , Jiao Yan , Peng Yang
Published: November 2021

Electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) in a product-orientated and energy-efficient manner relies on rational catalyst design guided by mechanistic understandings. In this study, the effect of conducting support on the CO2RR behaviors of semi-conductive metal-organic framework (MOF) — Cu3(HITP)2 are carefully investigated. Compared to the stand-alone MOF, adding Ketjen Black greatly promotes C2H4 production with a stabilized Faradaic efficiency between 60-70% in a wide potential range and prolonged period. Multicrystalline Cu nano-crystallites in the reconstructed MOF are induced and stabilized by the conducting support via current shock and charge delocalization, which is analogous to the mechanism of dendrite prevention through conductive scaffolds in metal ion batteries. Density functional theory calculations elucidate that the contained multi-facets and rich grain boundaries promote C–C coupling while suppressing HER. This study underlines the key role of substrate-catalyst interaction, and the regulation of Cu crystalline states via conditioning the charge transport, in steering the CO2RR pathway.
Quantum gas magnifier for sub-lattice-resolved imaging of 3D quantum systems
Authors: Asteria Luca , Zahn Henrik P. , Kosch Marcel N. , Sengstock Klaus , Weitenberg Christof
Published: November 2021

Imaging is central to gaining microscopic insight into physical systems, and new microscopy methods have always led to the discovery of new phenomena and a deeper understanding of them. Ultracold atoms in optical lattices provide a quantum simulation platform, featuring a variety of advanced detection tools including direct optical imaging while pinning the atoms in the lattice1,2. However, this approach suffers from the diffraction limit, high optical density and small depth of focus, limiting it to two-dimensional (2D) systems. Here we introduce an imaging approach where matter wave optics magnifies the density distribution before optical imaging, allowing 2D sub-lattice-spacing resolution in three-dimensional (3D) systems. By combining the site-resolved imaging with magnetic resonance techniques for local addressing of individual lattice sites, we demonstrate full accessibility to 2D local information and manipulation in 3D systems. We employ the high-resolution images for precision thermodynamics of Bose–Einstein condensates in optical lattices as well as studies of thermalization dynamics driven by thermal hopping. The sub-lattice resolution is demonstrated via quench dynamics within the lattice sites. The method opens the path for spatially resolved studies of new quantum many-body regimes, including exotic lattice geometries or sub-wavelength lattices3–6, and paves the way for single-atom-resolved imaging of atomic species, where efficient laser cooling or deep optical traps are not available, but which substantially enrich the toolbox of quantum simulation of many-body systems.
Assemblage of indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and green waste compost enhance drought stress tolerance in carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) trees
Authors: Boutasknit Abderrahim , Baslam Marouane , Ait-El-Mokhtar Mohamed , Anli Mohamed , Ben-Laouane Raja , Ait-Rahou Youssef , Mitsui Toshiaki , Douira Allal , El Modafar Cherkaoui , Wahbi Said , Meddich Abdelilah
Published: November 2021

In the current study, an eco-friendly management technology to improve young carob (Ceratonia siliquaL.) tree tolerance to water deficit was set up by using single or combined treatments of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and/or compost (C). Two groups of young carob have been installed: (i) carob cultivated under well-watered conditions (WW; 70% field capacity (FC)) and (ii) where the plants were drought-stressed (DS; 35% FC) during 2, 4, 6, and 8 months. The effect of used biofertilizers on the course of growth, physiological (photosynthetic traits, water status, osmolytes, and mineral content), and biochemical (hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), oxidative damage to lipids (malondialdehyde (MDA), and membrane stability (MS)) traits in response to short- and long-term droughts were assessed. The dual application of AMF and C (C + AMF) boosted growth, physiological and biochemical parameters, and nutrient uptake in carob under WW and DS. After eight months, C + AMF significantly enhanced stomatal conductance by 20%, maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII by 7%, leaf water potential by 23%, chlorophyll and carotenoid by 40%, plant uptake of mineral nutrients (P by 75%, N by 46%, K+by 35%, and Ca2+by 40%), concentrations of soluble sugar by 40%, and protein content by 44% than controls under DS conditions. Notably, C + AMF reduced the accumulation of H2O2and MDA content to a greater degree and increased MS. In contrast, enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and polyphenoloxidase) significantly increased in C + AMF plants under DS. Overall, our findings suggest that the pairing of C + AMF can mediate superior drought tolerance in young carob trees by increasing leaf stomatal conductance, cellular water content, higher solute concentration, and defense response against oxidative damage during the prolonged period of DS.
Responses of different functional tests in candidates for bariatric surgery and the association with body composition, metabolic and lipid profile
Authors: Ricci Paula Angélica , André Larissa Delgado , Jürgensen Soraia Pilon , de Oliveira Claudio Ricardo , Ortega Fernando Pinheiro , Di Thommazo-Luporini Luciana , Borghi-Silva Audrey
Published: November 2021

Individuals with obesity can have metabolic disorders and may develop impairments that affect the ability to exercise. The maximal incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test is widely used to assess functional capacity. However, submaximal tests such as the two-minute step test (2MST) and the six-minute walk test (6MWT) also allow this assessment. We propose to analyze whether body composition, metabolic and lipid profile influence the maximal and submaximal performance, and investigate these variables in response to different functional tests. Forty-four individuals with obesity, aged 18–50 years, underwent analysis of body composition, metabolic and lipid profile, incremental treadmill test (ITMT), 6MWT, and 2MST. One-way ANOVA, Pearson or Spearman correlation, and Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis were performed. ITMT induced a greater metabolic, ventilatory, cardiovascular, and perceived exertion demand when compared to the 6MWT and 2MST (p < 0.05). In addition, 2MST elicited a higher chronotropic (HR) and metabolic (V̇O2) demand when compared to the 6MWT (p < 0.05). Significant correlations were found between tests and body composition, metabolic and lipid profile. Fat mass and low-density lipoprotein can explain 30% of the V̇O2 variance in the ITMT; and fat mass, glucose, and performance in the 2MST can explain 42% of the variance of the distance walked in the ITMT. Obesity and its metabolic impairments are capable of influencing responses to exercise. ITMT generated greater demand due to the high stress imposed, however, 2MST demanded greater metabolic and chronotropic demand when compared to the 6MWT.
Structural insights into bifunctional thaumarchaeal crotonyl-CoA hydratase and 3-hydroxypropionyl-CoA dehydratase from Nitrosopumilus maritimus
Authors: Destan Ebru , Yuksel Busra , Tolar Bradley B. , Ayan Esra , Deutsch Sam , Yoshikuni Yasuo , Wakatsuki Soichi , Francis Christopher A. , DeMirci Hasan
Published: November 2021

The ammonia-oxidizing thaumarchaeal 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate (3HP/4HB) cycle is one of the most energy-efficient CO2 fixation cycles discovered thus far. The protein encoded by Nmar_1308 (from Nitrosopumilus maritimus SCM1) is a promiscuous enzyme that catalyzes two essential reactions within the thaumarchaeal 3HP/4HB cycle, functioning as both a crotonyl-CoA hydratase (CCAH) and 3-hydroxypropionyl-CoA dehydratase (3HPD). In performing both hydratase and dehydratase activities, Nmar_1308 reduces the total number of enzymes necessary for CO2 fixation in Thaumarchaeota, reducing the overall cost for biosynthesis. Here, we present the first high-resolution crystal structure of this bifunctional enzyme with key catalytic residues in the thaumarchaeal 3HP/4HB pathway.
Active strategies for multisensory conflict suppression in the virtual hand illusion
Authors: Lanillos Pablo , Franklin Sae , Maselli Antonella , Franklin David W.
Published: November 2021

The perception of our body in space is flexible and manipulable. The predictive brain hypothesis explains this malleability as a consequence of the interplay between incoming sensory information and our body expectations. However, given the interaction between perception and action, we might also expect that actions would arise due to prediction errors, especially in conflicting situations. Here we describe a computational model, based on the free-energy principle, that forecasts involuntary movements in sensorimotor conflicts. We experimentally confirm those predictions in humans using a virtual reality rubber-hand illusion. Participants generated movements (forces) towards the virtual hand, regardless of its location with respect to the real arm, with little to no forces produced when the virtual hand overlaid their physical hand. The congruency of our model predictions and human observations indicates that the brain-body is generating actions to reduce the prediction error between the expected arm location and the new visual arm. This observed unconscious mechanism is an empirical validation of the perception–action duality in body adaptation to uncertain situations and evidence of the active component of predictive processing.
Multifragmentary patellar fracture has a distinct fracture pattern which makes coronal split, inferior pole, or satellite fragments
Authors: Cho Jae-Woo , Yang Zepa , Lim Eic Ju , Sakong Seungyeob , Choi Wonseok , Son Whee Sung , Kim Hanju , Chang An Seong , Lim Do-Young , Kim Youngwoo , Kim Beom-Soo , Oh Jong-Keon
Published: November 2021

The present study aimed to map the location and frequency of fracture lines on the coronal articular and sagittal planes in multifragmentary patellar fractures. 66 multifragmentary patellar fractures were digitally reconstructed using the 3D CT mapping technique. The coronal articular surface and midsagittal fracture maps were produced by superimposing each case over a single template. Each fracture line was classified based on the initial displacement and orientation. We evaluated the frequency and direction of the fracture line, coronal split fragment area, and satellite and inferior pole fragment presence. Coronal articular surface fracture mapping identified primary horizontal fracture lines between the middle and inferior one-third of the articular surface in 63 patients (95.4%). Secondary horizontal fracture lines running on the inferior border of the articular facet were confirmed (83.3%). Secondary vertical fracture lines creating satellite fragments were mostly located on the periphery of the bilateral facet. Midsagittal fracture mapping of primary and secondary horizontal fracture lines with the main coronal fracture line revealed a predominantly X-shaped fracture map. The consequent coronal split fragment and inferior pole fracture were combined in most cases. In conclusion, the multifragmentary patellar fracture has a distinct pattern which makes coronal split, inferior pole, or satellite fragments.
Mixed convective flow of CNTs nanofluid subject to varying viscosity and reactions
Authors: Hussain Zakir , Hayat Tasawar , Alsaedi Ahmed , Anwar Muhammad Shoaib
Published: November 2021

The addressed work explains SWCNTs (Single walled carbon nanotubnes) and MWCNTs (Multi walled carbon nanotubnes) nanofluid flow under the influences of temperature dependent viscosity and mixed convection. Comparative study of SWCNTs and MWCNTs suspended in base liquid is presented. Further heat and mass transfer are addressed for nanofluid effected by radiation, heat generation/absorption and diffusion species. Mathematical development of problem is taken in cylindrical coordinates. System of highly nonlinear differential equations are constructed via appropriate transformations. The system of equations are tackled numerically by bvp4c MATLAB solver. The findings of the study show that larger volume fraction $$\left( \phi \right)$$

ϕ

contributes to enhance the nanoliquid flow. The velocity by submerging MWCNTs is noted higher than SWCNTs. Furthermore, the relationship between the viscosity variable $$\left( \theta _{r}\right)$$

θ
r

and the temperature is such that the temperature near the surface decreases with increase in $$\left( \theta _{r}\right)$$

θ
r

, while at the same time the temperature away from the surface increases. Subsequently, higher temperature is observed in SWCNTs-liquid compared to the MWCNTs-liquid to the similar values of $$\left( \theta _{r}\right)$$

θ
r

. Further, heat transfer is an increasing function of varying viscosity variable $$\left( \theta _{r}\right)$$

θ
r

.
DNA barcoding ferns in an unexplored tropical montane cloud forest area of southeast Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Trujillo-Argueta Sonia , del Castillo Rafael F. , Tejero-Diez Daniel , Matias-Cervantes Carlos Alberto , Velasco-Murguía Abril
Published: November 2021

DNA barcoding can be useful for species identification and phylogenetic analysis, but its effectivity has not been verified in most neotropical cloud forest plants. We tested three plastid barcodes, rbcLa, matK, and trnH-psbA, in selected pteridophytes, a well-represented group in these forests, from a little-explored area in Oaxaca, Mexico, applying the CBOL criteria for barcoding. We used BLASTn, genetic distance, and monophyly tree-based analyses employing neighbor-joining (NJ), maximum likelihood (ML), and Bayesian inference methods. Universal primers for rbcLa and trnH-psbA were successfully amplified and bi-directionally sequenced, but matK could not be amplified for most species. rbcLa showed the highest species discrimination in BLASTn (66.67%). trnH-psbA exhibited higher significant interspecific divergence values than rbcL and rbcLa + trnH-psbA (two-sample sign test, P value < 2.2e−16). Using NJ and ML phylogenetic trees, monophyletic species were successfully resolved (100%), differing only in support values and displaying full agreement with the most recent fern classification. ML trees showed the highest mean support value (80.95%). trnH-psbA was the only barcode that could detect the Elaphoglossoideae subfamily. Species discrimination did not increase using rbcLa + trnH-psbA. rbcLa is useful for fern barcoding, trnH-psbA is most helpful for phylogenetic analyses, and matK may not work as a universal barcoding marker.
Development of nanoparticles derived from corn as mass producible bionanoparticles with anticancer activity
Authors: Sasaki Daisuke , Kusamori Kosuke , Takayama Yukiya , Itakura Shoko , Todo Hiroaki , Nishikawa Makiya
Published: November 2021

Recent studies showed that plant-derived nanoparticles (NPs) can be easily produced in high yields and have potential applications as therapeutic agents or delivery carriers for bioactive molecules. In this study, we selected corn as it is inexpensive to grow and mass-produced globally. Super sweet corn was homogenized in water to obtain corn juice, which was then centrifuged, filtered through a 0.45-μm-pore size syringe filter, and ultracentrifuged to obtain NPs derived from corn, or corn-derived NPs (cNPs). cNPs obtained were approximately 80 nm in diameter and negatively charged (− 17 mV). cNPs were taken up by various types of cells, including colon26 tumor cells and RAW264.7 macrophage-like cells, with selective reduction of the proliferation of colon26 cells. Moreover, cNPs induced tumor necrosis factor-α release from RAW264.7 cells. cNPs and RAW264.7 in combination significantly suppressed the proliferation of colon26/fluc cells. Daily intratumoral injections of cNPs significantly suppressed the growth of subcutaneous colon26 tumors in mice, with no significant body weight loss. These results indicate excellent anti-tumor activity of cNPs.
Illuminating the prefrontal neural correlates of action sequence disassembling in response–response binding
Authors: Geissler Christoph F. , Frings Christian , Moeller Birte
Published: November 2021

Execution of two independent actions in quick succession results in transient binding of these two actions. Subsequent repetition of any of these actions automatically retrieves the other. This process is probably fundamental for developing complex action sequences. However, rigid bindings between two actions are not always adaptive. Sometimes, it is necessary to repeat only one of the two previously executed actions. In such situations, stored action sequences must be disassembled, for the sake of flexibility. Exact mechanisms that allow for such an active unbinding of actions remain largely unknown, but it stands to reason, that some form of prefrontal executive control is necessary. Building on prior neuronal research that explored other forms of binding (e.g. between distractors and responses and abstract representations and responses), we explored middle and superior frontal correlates of -response binding in a sequential classification task with functional near-infrared spectroscopy. We found that anterior dorsolateral prefrontal cortex activity varied as a function of response–repetition condition. Activity in the right anterior dorsolateral prefrontal cortex correlated with changes in reaction times due to response–response binding. Our results indicate that the right anterior dorsolateral prefrontal cortex dismantles bindings between consecutive actions, whenever such bindings interfere with current action goals.
Association of glycemic variability and hypoglycemia with distal symmetrical polyneuropathy in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Shen Ziyang , Jiang Hemin , Huang Rong , Zhou Yunting , Li Qian , Ma Jianhua
Published: November 2021

Previous studies exploring the influence of glycemic variability (GV) on the pathogenesis of distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN) in type 1 diabetes (T1DM) produced conflicting results. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between GV and DSPN in T1DM. Adults with T1DM were included in this cross-sectional study and asked to undergo 3-day CGM. GV quantified by coefficient of variation (CV) and mean amplitude of glucose excursions (MAGE) were obtained from CGM. Clinical characteristics and biochemical assessments were collected for analysis. The study comprised 152 T1DM patients (53.9% males) with mean age of 44.2 year. Higher levels of age and duration of diabetes and lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL, fasting C-peptide and postprandial C-peptide were observed in DSPN subjects. DSPN groups displayed a higher blood glucose between 00:00 and 12:59 according to the CGM profile. Higher MAGE and CV were associated with increased risk of DSPN in the fully adjusted model. Meanwhile, a significant association between measurements of hypoglycemia, especially nocturnal hypoglycemia, and DSPN was found after multiple tests. CGM parameters describing the glycemic variability and hypoglycemia were potential risk factors for DSPN in adults with T1DM.
Development of next-generation formulation against Fusarium oxysporum and unraveling bioactive antifungal metabolites of biocontrol agents
Authors: Jangir Monika , Sharma Shilpi , Sharma Satyawati
Published: November 2021

Biocontrol agents serve as a sustainable means of controlling wilt caused by the widespread plant pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. The present study aimed to develop water dispersible granules (WDG) using response surface methodology (RSM) for Bacillus subtilis MTCC 2274 and Trichoderma harzianum MTCC 3928, and to compare their antifungal efficacy with other formulations. Further, characterization of the bioactive metabolites responsible for biocontrol was performed. A new microbial formulation, WDG, was developed in the present study with talcum powder (substrate), alginic acid (dispersing agent) and acacia gum (wetting agent) (suspensibility 82.23%; wetting time 2.5 min; dispersion time 10.08 min) that fulfilled the guidelines of Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council (CIPAC). In planta study demonstrated that WDG of B. subtilis showed maximum reduction in disease incidence (48%) followed by talc formulation of B. subtilis (44%) and WDG of T. harzianum (42%) with profound effect on plant growth promotion. B. subtilis and T. harzianum demonstrated protease (929 and 846 U ml−1 min−1), chitinase (33.69 and 154 U ml−1 min−1), and β-1,3-glucanase (12.69 and 21.47 U ml−1 min−1) activities. Culture filtrates of B. subtilis and T. harzianum exhibited significant inhibition against mycelial growth of pathogen. The compounds present in the culture filtrates were identified with GC–MS as fatty acids, alkanes, phenols, benzene, pyran derivatives etc. The major non-volatile compounds in bioactive antifungal fraction were identified as derivatives of morpholine and piperdine for T. harzianum and B. subtilis, respectively. The findings propose a multivariate biocontrol mechanism against phytopathogen by production of hydrolytic enzymes, volatile and non-volatile compounds, together with development of an efficient next-generation formulation.
Optical fibre-based single photon source using InAsP quantum dot nanowires and gradient-index lens collection
Authors: Northeast David B. , Dalacu Dan , Weber John F. , Phoenix Jason , Lapointe Jean , Aers Geof C. , Poole Philip J. , Williams Robin L.
Published: November 2021

We present a compact, fibre-coupled single photon source using gradient-index (GRIN) lenses and an InAsP semiconductor quantum dot embedded within an InP photonic nanowire waveguide. A GRIN lens assembly is used to collect photons close to the tip of the nanowire, coupling the light immediately into a single mode optical fibre. The system provides a stable, high brightness source of fibre-coupled single photons. Using pulsed excitation, we demonstrate on-demand operation with a single photon purity of 98.5% when exciting at saturation in a device with a source-fibre collection efficiency of 35% and an overall single photon collection efficiency of 10%. We also demonstrate “plug and play” operation using room temperature photoluminescence from the InP nanowire for room temperature alignment.
A nomogram to predict risk of lymph node metastasis in early gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Miaoquan , Ding Chao , Xu Lin , Feng Shoucheng , Ling Yudong , Guo Jianrong , Liang Yao , Zhou Zhiwei , Chen Yingbo , Qiu Haibo
Published: November 2021

Lymph node (LN) metastasis is known as one of the most important prognostic factors for early gastric cancer (EGC) patients. Patients without LNM normally have better prognosis. However, there is no evaluation criteria to accurately assess the possibility of LN metastasis. Therefore, this study aims to establish an effective nomogram for prognosis prediction. In this study, 285 EGC patients from January 2010 to December 2015 were enrolled. Pearson’s Chi-Square (χ2) test (including continuity correction when appropriate) and logistics regression analyses was used to identify the risk factors for LN metastasis. The independent risk factors identified were then incorporated in a nomogram model. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability of the nomogram were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and calibration curve. LN metastasis occurred in 59 (20.7%) EGC patients. And most of these patients were submucosal cancers (48/59). Chi-square test indicated lymphovascular emboli, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), ulcer, tumor size, tumor infiltration and histological grade were the risk factors, and multivariate logistics analyses confirmed all these six factors were independent risk factors of LN metastasis, which were selected to construct the nomogram. The nomogram proved well calibrated and had good discriminative ability (C-index value: 0.842). The proposed nomogram could result in more-accurate risk prediction for EGC patients.
Weeklong improved colour contrasts sensitivity after single 670 nm exposures associated with enhanced mitochondrial function
Authors: Shinhmar Harpreet , Hogg Chris , Neveu Magella , Jeffery Glen
Published: November 2021

Mitochondrial decline in ageing robs cells of ATP. However, animal studies show that long wavelength exposure (650–900 nm) over weeks partially restores ATP and improves function. The likely mechanism is via long wavelengths reducing nanoscopic interfacial water viscosity around ATP rota pumps, improving their efficiency. Recently, repeated 670 nm exposures have been used on the aged human retina, which has high-energy demands and significant mitochondrial and functional decline, to improve vision. We show here that single 3 min 670 nm exposures, at much lower energies than previously used, are sufficient to significantly improve for 1 week cone mediated colour contrast thresholds (detection) in ageing populations (37–70 years) to levels associated with younger subjects. But light needs to be delivered at specific times. In environments with artificial lighting humans are rarely dark-adapted, hence cone function becomes critical. This intervention, demonstrated to improve aged mitochondrial function can be applied to enhance colour vision in old age.
The significance of region-specific habitat models as revealed by habitat shifts of grey-faced buzzard in response to different agricultural schedules
Authors: Kito Kensuke , Fujita Go , Iseki Fumitaka , Miyashita Tadashi
Published: November 2021

To determine large scales habitat suitability for focal species, habitat models derived from one region are often extrapolated to others. However, extrapolation can be inappropriate due to regional variation of habitat selection. Accounting for the ecological mechanisms causing such variation is necessary to resolve this problem. We focused on grey-faced buzzards in agricultural landscapes of Japan, which show geographically different habitat selection. To determine whether this variation is caused by the difference in climatic conditions at geographical scales or the difference in agricultural practices at smaller regional scales, we surveyed distributions of buzzards and their major prey (frogs/orthopterans) in regions differing in rice-transplanting schedules within the same climatic zone. We found that buzzards preferred paddy-forest landscapes in the early transplanting regions, but grassland-forest landscapes in the late transplanting regions. Frogs were more abundant in the early transplanting regions due to flooded paddies, while the abundance of orthopterans did not differ. The regional variation in habitat selection of buzzards may be due to different prey availabilities caused by different agricultural schedules. We propose that habitat suitability assessments of organisms inhabiting agricultural landscapes should consider differences in production systems at regional scales and such regional partitioning is effective for accurate assessments.
2D alpha-shapes to quantify retinal microvasculature morphology and their application to proliferative diabetic retinopathy characterisation in fundus photographs
Authors: Pead Emma , Giarratano Ylenia , Tatham Andrew J. , Bernabeu Miguel O. , Dhillon Baljean , Trucco Emanuele , MacGillivray Tom
Published: November 2021

The use of 2D alpha-shapes (α-shapes) to quantify morphological features of the retinal microvasculature could lead to imaging biomarkers for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). We tested our approach using the MESSIDOR dataset that consists of colour fundus photographs from 547 healthy individuals, 149 with mild diabetic retinopathy (DR), 239 with moderate DR, 199 pre-PDR and 53 PDR. The skeleton (centrelines) of the automatically segmented retinal vasculature was represented as an α-shape and the proposed parameters, complexity ($${Op\alpha }_{min}$$

O
p
α

min

), spread (OpA), global shape (VS) and presence of abnormal angiogenesis (Gradα) were computed. In cross-sectional analysis, individuals with PDR had a lower $${Op\alpha }_{min}$$

O
p
α

min

, OpA and Gradα indicating a vasculature that is more complex, less spread (i.e. dense) and the presence of numerous small vessels. The results show that α-shape parameters characterise vascular abnormalities predictive of PDR (AUC 0.73; 95% CI [0.73 0.74]) and have therefore potential to reveal changes in retinal microvascular morphology.
Phosphatidylcholine restores neuronal plasticity of neural stem cells under inflammatory stress
Authors: Magaquian Dario , Delgado Ocaña Susana , Perez Consuelo , Banchio Claudia
Published: November 2021

The balances between NSCs growth and differentiation, and between glial and neuronal differentiation play a key role in brain regeneration after any pathological conditions. It is well known that the nervous tissue shows a poor recovery after injury due to the factors present in the wounded microenvironment, particularly inflammatory factors, that prevent neuronal differentiation. Thus, it is essential to generate a favourable condition for NSCs and conduct them to differentiate towards functional neurons. Here, we show that neuroinflammation has no effect on NSCs proliferation but induces an aberrant neuronal differentiation that gives rise to dystrophic, non-functional neurons. This is perhaps the initial step of brain failure associated to many neurological disorders. Interestingly, we demonstrate that phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho)-enriched media enhances neuronal differentiation even under inflammatory stress by modifying the commitment of post-mitotic cells. The pro-neurogenic effect of PtdCho increases the population of healthy normal neurons. In addition, we provide evidences that this phospholipid ameliorates the damage of neurons and, in consequence, modulates neuronal plasticity. These results contribute to our understanding of NSCs behaviour under inflammatory conditions, opening up new venues to improve neurogenic capacity in the brain.
Development of an advanced flow cytometry based high-resolution immunophenotyping method to benchmark early immune response in dairy cows
Authors: Farschtschi Sabine , Mattes Martin , Hildebrandt Alex , Chiang Dapi , Kirchner Benedikt , Kliem Heike , Pfaffl Michael W.
Published: November 2021

The determination of the somatic cell count of a milk sample is one of the most common methods to monitor udder health of a dairy cow. However, this procedure does not take into account the fact that cells in milk present a great variety of different cell types. The objective of our study was to establish a high-resolution differential cell count (HRDCC) by means of flow cytometry in blood and milk. We were able to detect ten subpopulations among the three main populations of immune cells and to determine their viability. Additionally, blood samples were analyzed for common laboratory biomarkers, i.e. differential blood counts, haptoglobin levels and several metabolic parameters. In this first feasibility study, we used three different vaccines to stimulate the immune system of five healthy cows each. Samples were collected shortly before, in between and after the vaccinations. Using multivariate statistical methods we saw a diagnostic benefit when HRDCCs were included compared to only the standard laboratory parameters. The impacts of all three vaccinations on the immune system were visible in blood HRDCCs as well as in milk HRDCCs. Cluster of Differentiation 8+ (CD8+) T cells, B cells and monocyte/macrophage subpopulations were among the most important and statistically relevant parameters for all treatments in both biofluids. Moreover, in one of the treatment groups intermediate monocytes showed a significant increase after both vaccinations. Although the use of HRDCC in blood or milk was shown to be highly relevant for early systemic diagnostic, to confirm these subpopulations further investigations in cows of different breed, lactation stage or health status are required.
Corneal dendritic cells and the subbasal nerve plexus following neurotoxic treatment with oxaliplatin or paclitaxel
Authors: Chiang Jeremy Chung Bo , Goldstein David , Tavakoli Azadeh , Trinh Terry , Klisser Jacob , Lewis Craig R. , Friedlander Michael , Naduvilath Thomas J. , Au Kimberley , Park Susanna B. , Krishnan Arun V. , Markoulli Maria
Published: November 2021

Immune cell infiltration has been implicated in neurotoxic chemotherapy for cancer treatment. However, our understanding of immune processes is still incomplete and current methods of observing immune cells are time consuming or invasive. Corneal dendritic cells are potent antigen-presenting cells and can be imaged with in-vivo corneal confocal microscopy. Corneal dendritic cell densities and nerve parameters in patients treated with neurotoxic chemotherapy were investigated. Patients treated for cancer with oxaliplatin (n = 39) or paclitaxel (n = 48), 3 to 24 months prior to assessment were recruited along with 40 healthy controls. Immature (ImDC), mature (MDC) and total dendritic cell densities (TotalDC), and corneal nerve parameters were analyzed from in-vivo corneal confocal microscopy images. ImDC was increased in the oxaliplatin group (Median, Md = 22.7 cells/mm2) compared to healthy controls (Md = 10.1 cells/mm2, p = 0.001), but not in the paclitaxel group (Md = 10.6 cells/mm2). ImDC was also associated with higher oxaliplatin cumulative dose (r = 0.33, p = 0.04) and treatment cycles (r = 0.40, p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in MDC between the three groups (p > 0.05). Corneal nerve parameters were reduced in both oxaliplatin and paclitaxel groups compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). There is evidence of elevation of corneal ImDC in oxaliplatin-treated patients. Further investigation is required to explore this potential link through longitudinal studies and animal or laboratory-based immunohistochemical research.
Cellular senescence links mitochondria-ER contacts and aging
Authors: Ziegler Dorian V. , Martin Nadine , Bernard David
Published: November 2021

Membrane contact sites emerged in the last decade as key players in the integration, regulation and transmission of many signals within cells, with critical impact in multiple pathophysiological contexts. Numerous studies accordingly point to a role for mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contacts (MERCs) in modulating aging. Nonetheless, the driving cellular mechanisms behind this role remain unclear. Recent evidence unravelled that MERCs regulate cellular senescence, a state of permanent proliferation arrest associated with a pro-inflammatory secretome, which could mediate MERC impact on aging. Here we discuss this idea in light of recent advances supporting an interplay between MERCs, cellular senescence and aging.
Extremely fast charging lithium-ion battery using bio-based polymer-derived heavily nitrogen doped carbon
Authors: Patnaik Kottisa Sumala , Badam Rajashekar , Peng Yueying , Higashimine Koichi , Kaneko Tatsuo , Matsumi Noriyoshi
Published: November 2021

Heavily nitrogen doped carbon was designed by facile pyrolysis of bio-based poly(2,5 benzimidazole) as single source of carbon and nitrogen and utilized as extremely fast charging anode in Li-ion batteries.
Small-molecule fluorescent probes: big future for specific bacterial labeling and infection detection
Authors: Wang Zhimin , Xing Bengang
Published: November 2021

In the last decade, small-molecule fluorescent probes brightened the bacteria and infections.
Block copolymer-assisted synthesis of VO2 (B) microflowers for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Kumar Nitish , Bansal Neetu , Salunkhe Rahul R.
Published: November 2021

Synthesis of phase-optimized porous VO2 (B) microflowers using a dual templating co-assembly hydrothermal approach for supercapacitor application.
Controllable vapor growth of CsPbBr3/CdS 1D heterostructures with type-II band alignment for high-performance self-powered photodetector
Authors: Fan Chao , Yang Ke , Xu Xing , Qi Zhuodong , Jiang Sha , Xia Mingxia , Zhang Qinglin
Published: November 2021

The controllable growth of CsPbBr3/CdS heterostructures with a unique 1D morphology and type-II band alignment for a high-performance self-powered photodetector.
Insight into the role of hydrochloric acid in the thermodynamics and nucleation kinetics behavior of Arbidol hydrochloride monohydrate from metastable zone widths
Authors: Wen Ting , Wang Hairong , Li Chunrong , Xu Jikun , Zhang Chuntao
Published: November 2021

Contributions of hydrochloric acid to thermodynamics and nucleation kinetics of AHM were revealed by metastable zone width and modified Sangwal's theory, implying the nucleation rate monotonously increases with increment of hydrochloric acid.
Ballistic ΔS = 2 intersystem crossing in a cobalt cubane following ligand-field excitation probed by extreme ultraviolet spectroscopy
Authors: Shari'ati Yusef , Vura-Weis Josh
Published: November 2021

Time resolved M2,3-edge XANES spectroscopy of the Co4O4 cubane reveals ultrafast intersystem crossing into a quintet state within 38 fs.
Ultrafast conformational dynamics of Rydberg-excited N-methyl piperidine
Authors: Du Wenpeng , Gao Yan , Stankus Brian , Xu Xuan , Yong Haiwang , Weber Peter M.
Published: November 2021

Ultrafast coherent oscillations and subsequent conformational dynamics in N-methyl piperidine are observed upon excitation to 3s and 3p Rydberg states.
Raman tensor of zinc-phosphide (Zn3P2): from polarization measurements to simulation of Raman spectra
Authors: Flór Mischa , Stutz Elias Z. , Ramanandan Santhanu P. , Zamani Mahdi , Paul Rajrupa , Leran Jean-Baptiste , Litvinchuk Alexander P. , Fontcuberta i Morral Anna , Dimitrievska Mirjana
Published: November 2021

Raman tensor of zinc phosphide (Zn3P2) is determined using angle-resolved polarization Raman measurements and first principles calculations. These results provide a platform for future characterization of the defects in this material.
Micromotor-assisted fluorescence detection of Hg2+ with bio-inspired AO–Mn2O3/γ-AlO(OH)
Authors: Li Tingting , Lyu Yangsai , Li Jia , Wang Chengyan , Xing Ningning , Yang Jie , Zuo Min
Published: November 2021

Highly sensitive Hg2+ detection was achieved via the combination of fluorescence quenching induced by charge transfer between AO and Hg2+ and the accelerated mass transfer between the AO–Mn2O3/γ-AlO(OH) micromotor and target Hg2+ ions.
Natural withanolides, an update
Authors: Xia Gui-yang , Cao Shi-jie , Chen Li-xia , Qiu Feng
Published: November 2021

This review summarizes the research progress on the structural classification, biological activities and mechanisms, metabolism and pharmacokinetic investigations, biosynthesis, and synthesis and structural modifications of the withanolides.
Biosynthesis of fungal polyketides by collaborating and trans-acting enzymes
Authors: Skellam Elizabeth
Published: November 2021

Investigations into fungal polyketide biosynthesis have revealed many examples of megasynthases and trans-acting accessory enzymes. This review collates the different classes of collaborating enzymes, demonstrating common themes and rarer examples.
Dithiocarbamation of spiro-aziridine oxindoles: a facile access to C3-functionalised 3-thiooxindoles as apoptosis inducing agents
Authors: Sakla Akash P. , Panda Biswajit , Laxmikeshav Kritika , Soni Jay Prakash , Bhandari Sonal , Godugu Chandraiah , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: November 2021

An efficient access to C3-functionalised 3-thiooxindoles has been accomplished via direct dithiocarbamation of spiro-aziridine oxindoles. Their apoptosis-inducing properties have been investigated.
Alkylsulfonium salts for the photochemical desulphurizative functionalization of heteroarenes
Authors: Zhu Xiaolong , Jiang Min , Li Xuan , Zhu Enjie , Deng Qirong , Song Xiuyan , Lv Jian , Yang Daoshan
Published: November 2021

A metal-free organic photoredox-catalyzed alkylation of heteroarenes using alkylsulfonium salts as alkylation reagents has been developed.
Carbon nanotubes/Al2O3 composite derived from catalytic reforming of the pyrolysis volatiles of the mixture of polyethylene and lignin for highly-efficient removal of Pb(ii)
Authors: Wang Zhanghong , Qin Kun , Wang Zhikang , Shen Dekui , Wu Chunfei
Published: November 2021

The coked catalysts derived from catalytic reforming of the pyrolysis volatiles of polyethylene, lignin and their mixture were developed as low-cost and high-efficient carbon materials-containing composites to remove heavy metal ions from water.
Facile preparation of high loading filled PVDF/BaTiO3 piezoelectric composites for selective laser sintering 3D printing
Authors: Song Shiping , Li Yijun , Wang Qi , Zhang Chuhong
Published: November 2021

A novel PVDF/BaTiO3 cymbal part with excellent piezoelectric properties and responsiveness is designed and manufactured by selective laser sintering 3D printing technology.
Photochemical conversion of CO2 to CO by a Re complex: theoretical insights into the formation of CO and HCO3− from an experimentally detected monoalkyl carbonate complex
Authors: Isegawa Miho , Sharma Akhilesh K.
Published: November 2021

DFT and DLPNO-CCSD(T) calculations proposed a pathway for the conversion of the experimentally detected monoarkyl carbonate complex to tetracarbonyl complex.