bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curbing action potential generation or ATP-synthase leads to a decrease in in-cell pyruvate dehydrogenase activity in rat cerebrum slices
Authors: Grieb Benjamin , Uppala Sivaranjan , Sapir Gal , Shaul David , Gomori J. Moshe , Katz-Brull Rachel
Published: May 2021

Direct and real-time monitoring of cerebral metabolism exploiting the drastic increase in sensitivity of hyperpolarized 13C-labeled metabolites holds the potential to report on neural activity via in-cell metabolic indicators. Here, we followed the metabolic consequences of curbing action potential generation and ATP-synthase in rat cerebrum slices, induced by tetrodotoxin and oligomycin, respectively. The results suggest that pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity in the cerebrum is 4.4-fold higher when neuronal firing is unperturbed. The PDH activity was 7.4-fold reduced in the presence of oligomycin, and served as a pharmacological control for testing the ability to determine changes to PDH activity in viable cerebrum slices. These findings may open a path towards utilization of PDH activity, observed by magnetic resonance of hyperpolarized 13C-labeled pyruvate, as a reporter of neural activity.
Histidine-rich glycoprotein as a prognostic biomarker for sepsis
Authors: Kuroda Kosuke , Ishii Kenzo , Mihara Yuko , Kawanoue Naoya , Wake Hidenori , Mori Shuji , Yoshida Michihiro , Nishibori Masahiro , Morimatsu Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

Various biomarkers have been proposed for sepsis; however, only a few become the standard. We previously reported that plasma histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) levels decreased in septic mice, and supplemental infusion of HRG improved survival in mice model of sepsis. Moreover, our previous clinical study demonstrated that HRG levels in septic patients were lower than those in noninfective systemic inflammatory response syndrome patients, and it could be a biomarker for sepsis. In this study, we focused on septic patients and assessed the differences in HRG levels between the non-survivors and survivors. We studied ICU patients newly diagnosed with sepsis. Blood samples were collected within 24 h of ICU admission, and HRG levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Ninety-nine septic patients from 11 institutes in Japan were included. HRG levels were significantly lower in non-survivors (n = 16) than in survivors (n = 83) (median, 15.1 [interquartile ranges, 12.7–16.6] vs. 30.6 [22.1–39.6] µg/ml; p < 0.01). Survival analysis revealed that HRG levels were associated with mortality (hazard ratio 0.79, p < 0.01), and the Harrell C-index (predictive power) for HRG was 0.90. These results suggested that HRG could be a novel prognostic biomarker for sepsis.
Faster monitoring of the invasive alien species (IAS) Dreissena polymorpha in river basins through isothermal amplification
Authors: Carvalho Joana , Garrido-Maestu Alejandro , Azinheiro Sarah , Fuciños Pablo , Barros-Velázquez Jorge , De Miguel Ramón J. , Gros Verónica , Prado Marta
Published: May 2021

Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is considered as one of the 100 most harmful IAS in the world. Traditional detection methods have limitations, and PCR based environmental DNA detection has provided interesting results for early warning. However, in the last years, the development of isothermal amplification methods has received increasing attention. Among them, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has several advantages, including its higher tolerance to the presence of inhibitors and the possibility of naked-eye detection, which enables and simplifies its potential use in decentralized settings. In the current study, a real-time LAMP (qLAMP) method for the detection of Dreissena polymorpha was developed and tested with samples from the Guadalquivir River basin, together with two real-time PCR (qPCR) methods using different detection chemistries, targeting a specific region of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome C oxidase subunit I. All three developed approaches were evaluated regarding specificity, sensitivity and time required for detection. Regarding sensitivity, both qPCR approaches were more sensitive than qLAMP by one order of magnitude, however the qLAMP method proved to be as specific and much faster being performed in just 9 min versus 23 and 29 min for the qPCR methods based on hydrolysis probe and intercalating dye respectively.
3D modeling of a superconducting dynamo-type flux pump
Authors: Ghabeli Asef , Pardo Enric , Kapolka Milan
Published: May 2021

High temperature superconducting (HTS) dynamos are promising devices that can inject large DC currents into the winding of superconducting machines or magnets in a contactless way. Thanks to this, troublesome brushes in HTS machines or bulky currents leads with high thermal losses will be no longer required. The working mechanism of HTS dynamo has been controversial during the recent years and several explanations and models have been proposed to elucidate its performance. In this paper, we present the first three-dimensional (3D) model of an HTS flux pump, which has good agreement with experiments. This model can be beneficial to clarify the mechanism of the dynamo and pinpoint its unnoticed characteristics. Employing this model, we delved into the screening current and electric field distribution across the tape surface in several crucial time steps. This is important, since the overcritical screening current has been shown to be the reason for flux pumping. In addition, we analyzed the impact of both components of electric field and screening current on voltage generation, which was not possible in previous 2D models. We also explored the necessary distance of voltage taps at different airgaps for precise measurement of the voltage across the tape in the dynamo.
New lymphatic cell formation is associated with damaged brain tissue clearance after penetrating traumatic brain injury
Authors: Meng Fan-Wei , Yu Jun-Tao , Chen Jin-Yuan , Yang Peng-Fei
Published: May 2021

We characterized the tissue repair response after penetrating traumatic brain injury (pTBI) in this study. Seventy specific pathogen-free Kunming mice were randomly divided into the following groups: normal control, 1, 3, 7, 15, 21, and 30 days after pTBI. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were performed to examine and monitor brain tissue morphology, and the distribution and expression of lymphatic-specific markers lymphatic vessel endothelial receptor-1 (LYVE-1), hematopoietic precursor cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34) antigen, and Prospero-related homeobox-1 (PROX1) protein. H&E staining revealed that damaged and necrotic tissues observed on day 1 at and around the injury site disappeared on day 7, and there was gradual shrinkage and disappearance of the lesion on day 30, suggesting a clearance mechanism. We explored the possibility of lymphangiogenesis causing this clearance as part of the post-injury response. Notably, expression of lymphangiogenesis markers LYVE-1, CD34, and PROX1 was detected in damaged mouse brain tissue but not in normal tissue. Moreover, new lymphatic cells and colocalization of LYVE-1/CD34 and LYVE-1/PROX1 were also observed. Our findings of the formation of new lymphatic cells following pTBI provide preliminary insights into a post-injury clearance mechanism in the brain. Although we showed that lymphatic cells are implicated in brain tissue repair, further research is required to clarify the origin of these cells.
Systematic review and meta-analysis for prevention of cardiovascular complications using GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors in obese diabetic patients
Authors: Uneda Kazushi , Kawai Yuki , Yamada Takayuki , Kinguchi Sho , Azushima Kengo , Kanaoka Tomohiko , Toya Yoshiyuki , Wakui Hiromichi , Tamura Kouichi
Published: May 2021

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity are at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Both glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT-2) inhibitors have been shown to prevent CVD in T2DM patients. Additionally, the two drugs reduce body mass. However, it is unknown which drug is more effective at reducing the risk of CVD in such patients. We searched Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library records to February 20, 2021 and performed a network meta-analysis to compare the efficacy with which the drugs reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). We included 102,728 patients in 12 studies containing data of obesity subgroup analyses. In T2DM patients with obesity, GLP-1 RAs significantly reduced the risk of MACE versus placebo (relative risk, RR [95% confidence interval, CI]: 0.88 [0.81–0.96]), whereas SGLT-2 inhibitors showed a tendency (RR [95% CI]: 0.91 [0.83–1.00]). In an indirect comparison, GLP-1 RAs were not associated with a significant difference in MACE compared with SGLT-2 inhibitors (RR [95% CI]: 0.97 [0.85–1.09]). Thus, GLP-1 RAs are effective at preventing MACE than placebo in T2DM patients with obesity, although further studies are warranted to conclude their superiority to SGLT-2 inhibitors.
A simple, low cost and reusable microfluidic gradient strategy and its application in modeling cancer invasion
Authors: Samandari Mohamadmahdi , Rafiee Laleh , Alipanah Fatemeh , Sanati-Nezhad Amir , Javanmard Shaghayegh Haghjooy
Published: May 2021

Microfluidic chemical gradient generators enable precise spatiotemporal control of chemotactic signals to study cellular behavior with high resolution and reliability. However, time and cost consuming preparation steps for cell adhesion in microchannels as well as requirement of pumping facilities usually complicate the application of the microfluidic assays. Here, we introduce a simple strategy for preparation of a reusable and stand-alone microfluidic gradient generator to study cellular behavior. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is directly mounted on the commercial polystyrene-based cell culture surfaces by manipulating the PDMS curing time to optimize bonding strength. The stand-alone strategy not only offers pumpless application of this microfluidic device but also ensures minimal fluidic pressure and consequently a leakage-free system. Elimination of any surface treatment or coating significantly facilitates the preparation of the microfluidic assay and offers a detachable PDMS microchip which can be reused following to a simple cleaning and sterilization step. The chemotactic signal in our microchip is further characterized using numerical and experimental evaluations and it is demonstrated that the device can generate both linear and polynomial signals. Finally, the feasibility of the strategy in deciphering cellular behavior is demonstrated by exploring cancer cell migration and invasion in response to chemical stimuli. The introduced strategy can significantly decrease the complexity of the microfluidic chemotaxis assays and increase their throughput for various cellular and molecular studies.
A nomogram combining plasma fibrinogen and systemic immune‑inflammation index predicts survival in patients with resectable gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Pan-Xing , Wang Hai-Jiang , Liu Jia-Huang , Qiu Guang-Lin , Lu Jing , Fan Lin , Liao Xin-Hua , Che Xiang-Ming
Published: May 2021

Hyperfibrinogenemia and cancer-associated systemic inflammatory response are strongly associated with cancer progression and prognosis. We aimed to develop a novel prognostic score (F-SII score) on the basis of preoperative fibrinogen (F) and systemic immunoinflammatory index (SII), and evaluate its predictive value in patients with resectable gastric cancer (GC). Patients diagnosed with GC between January 2012 and December 2016 were reviewed. The F-SII score was 2 for patients with a high fibrinogen level (≥ 3.37 g/L) and a high SII (≥ 372.8), whereas that for patients with one or neither was 1 or 0, respectively. A high F-SII score was significantly associated with older patient age, a high ASA score, large tumor size, large proportion of perineural invasion, and late TNM stage. Multivariate analysis indicated that the F-SII score, histological grade, and TNM stage were independent factors for overall survival (OS). The Harrell's concordance index (C-index) of a nomogram based on the F-SII score and several clinicopathological manifestations was 0.72, which showed a better predictive ability for OS than the TNM stage alone (0.68). In conclusion, preoperative F-SII may serve as a useful predictive factor for OS and refine outcome prediction for patients with resectable GC combined with traditional clinicopathological analysis.
Osteocytes as main responders to low-intensity pulsed ultrasound treatment during fracture healing
Authors: Shimizu Tatsuya , Fujita Naomasa , Tsuji-Tamura Kiyomi , Kitagawa Yoshimasa , Fujisawa Toshiaki , Tamura Masato , Sato Mari
Published: May 2021

Ultrasound stimulation is a type of mechanical stress, and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) devices have been used clinically to promote fracture healing. However, it remains unclear which skeletal cells, in particular osteocytes or osteoblasts, primarily respond to LIPUS stimulation and how they contribute to fracture healing. To examine this, we utilized medaka, whose bone lacks osteocytes, and zebrafish, whose bone has osteocytes, as in vivo models. Fracture healing was accelerated by ultrasound stimulation in zebrafish, but not in medaka. To examine the molecular events induced by LIPUS stimulation in osteocytes, we performed RNA sequencing of a murine osteocytic cell line exposed to LIPUS. 179 genes reacted to LIPUS stimulation, and functional cluster analysis identified among them several molecular signatures related to immunity, secretion, and transcription. Notably, most of the isolated transcription-related genes were also modulated by LIPUS in vivo in zebrafish. However, expression levels of early growth response protein 1 and 2(Egr1,2),JunB, forkhead box Q1(FoxQ1), and nuclear factor of activated T cells c1(NFATc1)were not altered by LIPUS in medaka, suggesting that these genes are key transcriptional regulators of LIPUS-dependent fracture healing via osteocytes. We therefore show that bone-embedded osteocytes are necessary for LIPUS-induced promotion of fracture healing via transcriptional control of target genes, which presumably activates neighboring cells involved in fracture healing processes.
Multi-scaled Monte Carlo calculation for radon-induced cellular damage in the bronchial airway epithelium
Authors: Abu Shqair Ali , Kim Eun-Hee
Published: May 2021

Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer in indoor public and mining workers. Inhaled radon progeny releases alpha particles, which can damage cells in the airway epithelium. The extent and complexity of cellular damage vary depending on the alpha particle’s kinetic energy and cell characteristics. We developed a framework to quantitate the cellular damage on the nanometer and micrometer scales at different intensities of exposure to radon progenies Po-218 and Po-214. Energy depositions along the tracks of alpha particles that were slowing down were simulated on a nanometer scale using the Monte Carlo code Geant4-DNA. The nano-scaled track histories in a 5 μm radius and 1 μm-thick cylindrical volume were integrated into the tracking scheme of alpha trajectories in a micron-scale bronchial epithelium segment in the user-written SNU-CDS program. Damage distribution in cellular DNA was estimated for six cell types in the epithelium. Deep-sited cell nuclei in the epithelium would have less chance of being hit, but DNA damage from a single hit would be more serious, because low-energy alpha particles of high LET would hit the nuclei. The greater damage in deep-sited nuclei was due to the 7.69 MeV alpha particles emitted from Po-214. From daily work under 1 WL of radon concentration, basal cells would respond with the highest portion of complex DSBs among the suspected progenitor cells in the most exposed regions of the lung epithelium.
Origin and occurrence of gem-quality, skarn-hosted barite from Jebel Ouichane near Nador in Morocco
Authors: Dumańska-Słowik Magdalena , Naglik Beata , Toboła Tomasz , Powolny Tomasz , Huber Miłosz , Milovska Stanislava , Dobosz Natalia , Guzik Kamil , Wesełucha-Birczyńska Aleksandra
Published: May 2021

Light-blue barite from Jebel Ouichane in Morocco forms blade-like tabular crystals (up to ca. 10 cm) with superb transparency and lustre and represents one of the most spectacular gem-quality worldwide. The barite is hosted by iron-ore-bearing skarns, developed within Jurassic-Cretaceous limestones, and occurs in close spatial association with calcite. The crystals have their cores enriched in Sr and contain abundant monophase (liquid) fluid inclusions of primary and pseudosecondary origin. The barite probably precipitated slowly at a relatively low supersaturation and under the control of a surface reaction precipitation mechanism. However, there were some episodes during its formation with a fast growth rate and the coupled dissolution and recrystallization processes. A combination of fluid inclusion data and stable δ18O value for barite (+ 6.71‰ VSMOW) suggests that low-salinity barite-forming solutions resulted from the mixing of strongly-diluted meteoric waters (enriched in light oxygen isotope) with magmatic-hydrothermal fluids under low-temperature conditions (< 100 °C). Meanwhile, the mineralizing fluids must have been enriched in Ba, Sr, Ca, Mg, and other elements derived from the alteration of carbonate and silicate minerals in sedimentary and igneous rocks. The coupling between sulphur and oxygen isotope data (+ 16.39‰ VCDT and + 6.71‰ VSMOW, respectively) further suggests that barite crystallized in steam-heated environment, where SO42- derived from magmatic-hydrothermal SO2 reacted with sulphates that originate from the oxidation of H2S under near-surface conditions.
Global prevalence of mental health issues among the general population during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nochaiwong Surapon , Ruengorn Chidchanok , Thavorn Kednapa , Hutton Brian , Awiphan Ratanaporn , Phosuya Chabaphai , Ruanta Yongyuth , Wongpakaran Nahathai , Wongpakaran Tinakon
Published: May 2021

To provide a contemporary global prevalence of mental health issues among the general population amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We searched electronic databases, preprint databases, grey literature, and unpublished studies from January 1, 2020, to June 16, 2020 (updated on July 11, 2020), with no language restrictions. Observational studies using validated measurement tools and reporting data on mental health issues among the general population were screened to identify all relevant studies. We have included information from 32 different countries and 398,771 participants. The pooled prevalence of mental health issues amid the COVID-19 pandemic varied widely across countries and regions and was higher than previous reports before the COVID-19 outbreak began. The global prevalence estimate was 28.0% for depression; 26.9% for anxiety; 24.1% for post-traumatic stress symptoms; 36.5% for stress; 50.0% for psychological distress; and 27.6% for sleep problems. Data are limited for other aspects of mental health issues. Our findings highlight the disparities between countries in terms of the poverty impacts of COVID-19, preparedness of countries to respond, and economic vulnerabilities that impact the prevalence of mental health problems. Research on the social and economic burden is needed to better manage mental health problems during and after epidemics or pandemics. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD 42020177120.
End of life breast cancer care in women with severe mental illnesses
Authors: Fond Guillaume , Pauly Vanessa , Duba Audrey , Salas Sebastien , Viprey Marie , Baumstarck Karine , Orleans Veronica , Llorca Pierre-Michel , Lancon Christophe , Auquier Pascal , Boyer Laurent
Published: May 2021

Little is known on the end-of-life (EOL) care of terminal breast cancer in women with severe psychiatric disorder (SPD). The objective was to determine if women with SPD and terminal breast cancer received the same palliative and high-intensity care during their end-of-life than women without SPD. Study design, setting, participants. This population-based cohort study included all women aged 15 and older who died from breast cancer in hospitals in France (2014–2018). Key measurements/outcomes. Indicators of palliative care and high-intensity EOL care. Multivariable models were performed, adjusted for age at death, year of death, social deprivation, duration between cancer diagnosis and death, metastases, comorbidity, smoking addiction and hospital category. The analysis included 1742 women with SPD (287 with bipolar disorder, 1075 with major depression and 380 with schizophrenia) and 36,870 women without SPD. In multivariate analyses, women with SPD had more palliative care (adjusted odd ratio aOR 1.320, 95%CI [1.153–1.511], p < 0.001), longer palliative care follow-up before death (adjusted beta = 1.456, 95%CI (1.357–1.555), p < 0.001), less chemotherapy, surgery, imaging/endoscopy, and admission in emergency department and intensive care unit. Among women with SPD, women with bipolar disorders and schizophrenia died 5 years younger than those with recurrent major depression. The survival time was also shortened in women with schizophrenia. Despite more palliative care and less high-intensity care in women with SPD, our findings also suggest the existence of health disparities in women with bipolar disorders and schizophrenia compared to women with recurrent major depression and without SPD. Targeted interventions may be needed for women with bipolar disorders and schizophrenia to prevent these health disparities.
Artificial intelligence in detecting temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis on orthopantomogram
Authors: Choi Eunhye , Kim Donghyun , Lee Jeong-Yun , Park Hee-Kyung
Published: May 2021

Orthopantomogram (OPG) is important for primary diagnosis of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA), because of cost and the radiation associated with computed tomograms (CT). The aims of this study were to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model and compare its TMJOA diagnostic performance from OPGs with that of an oromaxillofacial radiology (OMFR) expert. An AI model was developed using Karas’ ResNet model and trained to classify images into three categories: normal, indeterminate OA, and OA. This study included 1189 OPG images confirmed by cone-beam CT and evaluated the results by model (accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score) and diagnostic performance (accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity). The model performance was unsatisfying when AI was developed with 3 categories. After the indeterminate OA images were reclassified as normal, OA, or omission, the AI diagnosed TMJOA in a similar manner to an expert and was in most accord with CBCT when the indeterminate OA category was omitted (accuracy: 0.78, sensitivity: 0.73, and specificity: 0.82). Our deep learning model showed a sensitivity equivalent to that of an expert, with a better balance between sensitivity and specificity, which implies that AI can play an important role in primary diagnosis of TMJOA from OPGs in most general practice clinics where OMFR experts or CT are not available.
NFL strongly correlates with TNF-R1 in the plasma of AD patients, but not with cognitive decline
Authors: Delaby Constance , Julian A. , Page G. , Ragot S. , Lehmann Sylvain , Paccalin M.
Published: May 2021

Peripheral inflammation mechanisms involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have yet to be accurately characterized and the identification of blood biomarker profiles could help predict cognitive decline and optimize patient care. Blood biomarkers described to date have failed to provide a consensus signature, which is mainly due to the heterogeneity of the methods used or the cohort. The present work aims to describe the potential informativity of peripheral inflammation in AD, focusing in particular on the potential association between the level of plasma neurofilament light (NFL), peripheral inflammation (by quantifying IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, CCL5, TNF-R1, sIL-6R, TIMP-1, IL-8 in blood) and cognitive decline (assessed by the MMSE and ADAScog scales) through a 2-year follow-up of 40 AD patients from the Cytocogma cohort (CHU Poitiers, Pr M. Paccalin). Our results show for the first time a strong correlation between plasma NFL and TNF-R1 at each time of follow-up (baseline, 12 and 24 months), thus opening an interesting perspective for the prognosis of AD patients.
Process optimization for the supercritical carbondioxide extraction of lycopene from ripe grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) endocarp
Authors: Priyadarsani Supriya , Patel Avinash Singh , Kar Abhijit , Dash Sukanta
Published: May 2021

In this study, an underutilized citrus family fruit named grapefruit was explored for the extraction of lycopene using supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction technique. An experimental design was developed using response surface methodology to investigate the effect of supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) operating parameter viz., pressure, temperature, CO2 flow rate, and extraction time on the extraction yield of lycopene yield from grapefruit. A total of 30 sets of experiments were conducted with six central points. The statistical model indicated that extraction pressure and extraction time individually, and their interaction, significantly affected the lycopene yield. The central composite design showed that the polynomial regression models developed were in agreement with the experimental results, with R2 of 0.9885. The optimum conditions for extraction of lycopene from grapefruit were 305 bar pressure, 35 g/min CO2 flow rate, 135 min of extraction time, and 70 °C temperature.
SIGLEC1 (CD169): a marker of active neuroinflammation in the brain but not in the blood of multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Ostendorf Lennard , Dittert Philipp , Biesen Robert , Duchow Ankelien , Stiglbauer Victoria , Ruprecht Klemens , Bellmann-Strobl Judith , Seelow Dominik , Stenzel Werner , Niesner Raluca A. , Hauser Anja E. , Paul Friedemann , Radbruch Helena
Published: May 2021

We aimed to evaluate SIGLEC1 (CD169) as a biomarker in multiple sclerosis (MS) and Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and to evaluate the presence of SIGLEC1+ myeloid cells in demyelinating diseases. We performed flow cytometry-based measurements of SIGLEC1 expression on monocytes in 86 MS patients, 41 NMOSD patients and 31 healthy controls. Additionally, we histologically evaluated the presence of SIGLEC1+ myeloid cells in acute and chronic MS brain lesions as well as other neurological diseases. We found elevated SIGLEC1 expression in 16/86 (18.6%) MS patients and 4/41 (9.8%) NMOSD patients. Almost all MS patients with high SIGLEC1 levels received exogenous interferon beta as an immunomodulatory treatment and only a small fraction of MS patients without interferon treatment had increased SIGLEC1 expression. In our cohort, SIGLEC1 expression on monocytes was—apart from those patients receiving interferon treatment—not significantly increased in patients with MS and NMOSD, nor were levels associated with more severe disease. SIGLEC1+ myeloid cells were abundantly present in active MS lesions as well as in a range of acute infectious and malignant diseases of the central nervous system, but not chronic MS lesions. The presence of SIGLEC1+ myeloid cells in brain lesions could be used to investigate the activity in an inflammatory CNS lesion.
Improved efficiency of coding systems with health information technology
Authors: Lee Jinhyung , Choi Jae-Young
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the impact of health information technology (IT) on the Case Mix Index (CMI). This study was a retrospective cohort study using hospital financial data from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) in California. A total of 309 unique hospitals were included in the study for 7 years, from 2009 to 2015, resulting in 2,135 hospital observations. The effects of health information technology (IT) on the Case Mix Index (CMI) was evaluated using dynamic panel data analysis to control endogeneity issues. This study found that more health IT adoption could lead to a lower CMI by improving coding systems. Policy makers, researchers, and healthcare providers must be cautious when interpreting the effect of health IT on the CMI. To encourage the adoption of health IT, the cost savings and reimbursement reductions resulting from health IT adoption should be compared. If any profit loss occurs (i.e., the cost savings is less than reimbursement reduction), more incentives should be provided to healthcare providers.
Productivity performance of peach trees, insecticidal and antibacterial bioactivities of leaf extracts as affected by nanofertilizers foliar application
Authors: Mosa Walid F. A. , El-Shehawi Ahmed M. , Mackled Marwa I. , Salem Mohamed Z. M. , Ghareeb Rehab Y. , Hafez Elsayed E. , Behiry Said I. , Abdelsalam Nader R.
Published: May 2021

The current study was performed on eight years old peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) trees cv. Florida prince to study the influence of spraying of commercial nano fertilizer on vegetative growth, pollen grain viability, yield, and fruit quality of the "Florida prince" peach cultivar. Furthermore, extracts from the nanofertilizer treated leaves were studied for their bioactivity as insecticidal or bactericidal activities against some stored grain insects and plant bacterial pathogens. Seventy uniform peach trees were sprayed three time as follow: before flowering; during full bloom, and one month later in addition using the water as a control. Commercial silver particales (Ag NPs) at 10, 12.5, and 15 mL/L and zinc particales (Zn NPs) at 2.5, 5 and 7.5 mL/L as recommended level in a randomized complete block design in ten replicates/trees. Spraying Ag NP at 15 mL/L increased shoot diameter, leaf area, total chlorophyll, flower percentage, fruit yield and fruit physical and chemical characteristics, followed by Ag NPs at 12.5 mL/L and Zn NPs at 7.5 mL/L. Moreover, Zn and Ag NPs caused a highly significant effect on pollen viability. Different type of pollen aberrations were detected by Zn NPs treatment. The commercial Ag NPs showed a high increase in pollen viability without any aberrations. The Ag NPs significantly increased the pollen size, and the spores also increased and separated in different localities, searching about the egg for pollination and fertilization. Peach leaves extract was examined for their insecticidal activity against rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzea L.) and the lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica, Fabricius) by fumigation method. The antibacterial activity of all treatments was also performed against molecularly identified bacteria. Ag NPs treated leaves extract at concentration 3000 µg/mL were moderate sufficient to inhibit all the bacterial isolates with inhibition zone (IZ) ranged 6–8.67 mm with high efficiency of acetone extracts from leaves treated with Ag NPs compared with Zn NPs. Also, S. oryzae was more susceptible to acetone extracts from leaves treated with both nanomaterials than R. dominica.
Selection of high-quality sperm with thousands of parallel channels
Authors: Simchi Mohammad , Riordon Jason , You Jae Bem , Wang Yihe , Xiao Sa , Lagunov Alexander , Hannam Thomas , Jarvi Keith , Nosrati Reza , Sinton David
Published: May 2021

A 3D-structured sperm selection device is presented that achieves both high selectivity and high yieldviathousands of parallel channels. The device significantly outperforms the best clinical practice by selecting ∼100 000 of higher-quality sperm.
Cyclohexyl-substituted non-fullerene small-molecule acceptors for organic solar cells
Authors: Hong Seunggyun , Song Chang Eun , Ryu Du Hyeon , Lee Sang Kyu , Shin Won Suk , Lim Eunhee
Published: May 2021

A power conversion efficiency of 6.91% was obtained in an organic solar cell based on cyclohexyl-substituted non-fullerene small molecule (T2-Cy6PRH) under additive-free and annealing-free conditions.
Asymmetric autocatalysis triggered by triglycine sulfate with switchable chirality by altering the direction of the applied electric field
Authors: Kawasaki Tsuneomi , Kaimori Yoshiyasu , Shimada Seiya , Hara Natsuki , Sato Susumu , Suzuki Kenta , Asahi Toru , Matsumoto Arimasa , Soai Kenso
Published: May 2021

In asymmetric autocatalysis with amplification of ee, molecular chirality of highly enantioenriched organic compounds is controlled by a crystal TGS, whose chirality is switchable by changing the direction of the applied static electric field.
Predicting molecular isomerism of symmetrical and unsymmetrical N,N′-diphenyl formamidines in the solid-state: crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, pairwise interaction energy, and ΔHfusion and ΔSfusion correlations
Authors: Zamisa Sizwe J. , Bongoza Unathi , Omondi Bernard
Published: May 2021

Correlating molecular isomerism of N,N′-diphenylformamidine derivatives in the solid state with molecular pairwise interaction energies, experimental enthalpy and entropy of fusion.
Two isomeric zeolite-like metal–organic frameworks with mechanically responsive luminescence emission and gas adsorption properties
Authors: Peng Shuang , Qi Yan-Jie , Li Xin-Hao , Sun Cai , Li Ling-Yun , Li Xin-Xiong , Zheng Shou-Tian , Zhang Qichun
Published: May 2021

The two isomeric zeolite-like metal–organic frameworks based on tetrahedral TPO3− ligands and tetrahedrally connected Cd2+ ions were prepared. One of the compounds shows mechanic-responsive luminescence after the crystals were ground for different time.
Halogen-bonded one-dimensional chains of functionalized ditopic bipyridines co-crystallized with mono-, di-, and triiodofluorobenzenes
Authors: Vulpe Elena , Grosjean Sylvain , Hassan Zahid , Bulach Véronique , Hosseini Mir Wais , Bräse Stefan
Published: May 2021

A series of halogen-bonded (XB) 1D and zigzag supramolecular architectures involving a sterically hindered class of homologous para-xylenes bearing bipyridyl moieties at peripheries co-crystallized with mono-, di-, and triiodofluorobenzenes as XB donors are prepared.
Selective synthesis of para-xylene and light olefins from CO2/H2 in the presence of toluene
Authors: Miao Dengyun , Pan Xiulian , Jiao Feng , Ji Yi , Hou Guangjin , Xu Lei , Bao Xinhe
Published: May 2021

para-xylene and light olefins are co-produced in CO2 hydrogenation in the presence of toluene over OXZEO composite catalyst.
Retraction: Synthesis of a novel type of chiral salen Mn(iii) complex immobilized on crystalline zinc poly(styrene-phenylvinylphosphonate)-phosphate (ZnPS-PVPP) as effective catalysts for asymmetric epoxidation of unfunctionalized olefins
Authors: Huang Jing , Fu Xiangkai , Miao Qiang
Published: May 2021

Retraction for ‘Synthesis of a novel type of chiral salen Mn(iii) complex immobilized on crystalline zinc poly(styrene-phenylvinylphosphonate)-phosphate (ZnPS-PVPP) as effective catalysts for asymmetric epoxidation of unfunctionalized olefins’ by Jing Huang et al., Catal. Sci. Technol., 2011, 1, 1472–1482, DOI: 10.1039/C1CY00285F
A combined experimental and theoretical study on a single, unsupported oxo-bridged Mn(iii,iii) dimer coordinated to two iminobenzosemiquinone π-radical anions
Authors: Paul Ganesh Chandra , Sarkar Prasenjit , Sarmah Amrit , Shaw Prantick , Maity Suvendu , Mukherjee Chandan
Published: May 2021

An unprecedented two iminosemiquionone radical-coordinated (μ-oxo)-bridged dinuclear, high-spin Mn(iii,iii) complex (1) was reported. Metal-centric oxidations and ligand-based reductions are confirmed by spectroscopic and DFT-based calculations.
High magnetization reversal barriers in luminescent dysprosium octahedral and pentagonal bipyramidal single-molecule magnets based on fluorinated alkoxide ligands
Authors: Long Jérôme , Tolpygin Aleksei O. , Lyubov Dmitry M. , Rad'kova Natalia Yu. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Guari Yannick , Larionova Joulia , Trifonov Alexander A.
Published: May 2021

Three luminescent single-molecules magnets based on different fluorinated alkoxide ligands and exhibiting high magnetization reversal barriers are reported.
One-pot synthesis of enzyme@metal–organic material (MOM) biocomposites for enzyme biocatalysis
Authors: Pan Yanxiong , Li Hui , Lenertz Mary , Han Yulun , Ugrinov Angel , Kilin Dmitri , Chen Bingcan , Yang Zhongyu
Published: May 2021

Metal-Organic Materials (MOMs) are formed by co-precipitation of Ca2+ or Zn2+ with DDVA, a derivative product of lignan for enzyme immobilization. This work opens a new avenue of making MOMs with nature biomass independent of petroleum chemicals.
Correlating high temperature thin film ionomer electrode binder properties to hydrogen pump polarization
Authors: Venugopalan Gokul , Bhattacharya Deepra , Kole Subarna , Ysidron Cameron , Angelopoulou Polyxeni P. , Sakellariou Georgios , Arges Christopher G.
Published: May 2021

Influence of ionomer electrode binders thin film properties on electrochemical hydrogen pump (ECHP) polarization.
Selective Golgi α-mannosidase II inhibitors: N-alkyl substituted pyrrolidines with a basic functional group
Authors: Klunda Tomáš , Hricovíni Michal , Šesták Sergej , Kóňa Juraj , Poláková Monika
Published: May 2021

Enzymatic assays, molecular modeling and NMR studies of novel 1,4-dideoxy-1,4-imino-l-lyxitols provided new information on the GH38 family enzyme inhibitors and their selectivity.
A novel fast-responsive fluorescent probe based on 1,3,5-triazine for endogenous H2S detection with large Stokes shift and its application in cell imaging
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Hao , Li Shaoqing , Yan Yizhe , Qu Jianbo , Wang Jian-Yong
Published: May 2021

A novel fast-responsive fluorescent probe TzAr-H2S based on 1,3,5-triazine was constructed to monitor endogenous H2S. The probe TzAr-H2S can quickly (only 20 s) detect H2S with good selectivity, large Stokes shift (100 nm) and low cytotoxicity.
Half-sandwich Ru(ii) arene complexes bearing benzimidazole ligands for theN-alkylation reaction of aniline with alcohols in a solvent-free medium
Authors: Çiçek Metin , Gürbüz Nevin , Özdemir Namık , Özdemir İsmail , İspir Esin
Published: May 2021

In this article, the directN-alkylation reactions of amines with alcohol derivatives using the borrowing hydrogen methodology have been investigated.
Coupling the fluorescence and adsorptive properties of biomass-based cellulose–CdS nanocomposite for the alleviation of water contaminants
Authors: Komal  , Deepeka  , Kaur Jaspreet , Kumar Vinod , Tikoo K. B. , Kaushik Anupama , Singhal Sonal
Published: May 2021

Integration of CdS nanoparticles with CNF nanofibers for selective fluorescence detection of pharmaceutical waste and adsorptive elimination of textile and pesticide waste.
A high-performance free-standing Zn anode for flexible zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Gao Chenxi , Wang Jiawei , Huang Yuan , Li Zixuan , Zhang Jiyan , Kuang Haoze , Chen Shuhao , Nie Zanxiang , Huang Shuyi , Li Wei , Li Yubo , Jin Shunyu , Pan Yuanjiang , Long Teng , Luo Jikui , Zhou Hang , Wang Xiaozhi
Published: May 2021

A highly flexible free-standing Zn anode for ZIBs is fabricated from commercial Zn paste, carbon nanotubes, and poly(vinylidene fluoride)-co-hexafluoropropylene via spin coating. ZIBs with free-standing Zn anode showed improved rate performances.
Intrinsic helical twist and chirality in ultrathin tellurium nanowires
Authors: Londoño-Calderon Alejandra , Williams Darrick J. , Schneider Matthew M. , Savitzky Benjamin H. , Ophus Colin , Ma Sijie , Zhu Hanyu , Pettes Michael T.
Published: May 2021

Robust meso-scale chirality is now observed in the one-dimensional form of tellurium, enabling a large and unexpected non-linear optical response.
Thioxanthone: a powerful photocatalyst for organic reactions
Authors: Nikitas Nikolaos F. , Gkizis Petros L. , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: May 2021

Thioxanthone is a powerful photocatalyst. In this review, its photophysical properties and its applications in photopolymerisation and in organic synthesis are highlighted.
Reactions promoted by hypervalent iodine reagents and boron Lewis acids
Authors: Dasgupta Ayan , Thiehoff Christian , Newman Paul D. , Wirth Thomas , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: May 2021

Understanding the role of boranes in hypervalent iodine chemistry will open up new reactivities which can be utilised in organic synthesis.
Bandgap adjustment assisted preparation of >18% CsyFA1−yPbIxBr3−x-based perovskite solar cells using a hybrid spraying process
Authors: Fu Shengquan , Xiao Yueyue , Yu Xinxin , Xiang Tianxing , Long Fei , Xiao Junyan , Ku Zhiliang , Zhong Jie , Li Wei , Huang Fuzhi , Peng Yong , Cheng Yibing
Published: May 2021

High-efficiency perovskite solar cells with good grain morphology and adjustable band gap were prepared by ultrasonic spray.
Rare bioparticle detection via deep metric learning
Authors: Luo Shaobo , Shi Yuzhi , Chin Lip Ket , Zhang Yi , Wen Bihan , Sun Ying , Nguyen Binh T. T. , Chierchia Giovanni , Talbot Hugues , Bourouina Tarik , Jiang Xudong , Liu Ai-Qun
Published: May 2021

Conventional deep neural networks use simple classifiers to obtain highly accurate results. However, they have limitations in practical applications. This study demonstrates a robust deep metric neural network model for rare bioparticle detection.
Elucidation of the reaction mechanism for the synthesis of ZnGeN2 through Zn2GeO4 ammonolysis
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Fritsch Daniel , Berendts Stefan , Lerch Martin , Breternitz Joachim , Schorr Susan
Published: May 2021

Combining chemical analyses with detailed structural work, we decipher the reaction pathway in the ammonolysis of Zn2GeO4 towards ZnGeN2.
Tracking the optical mass centroid of single electroactive nanoparticles reveals the electrochemically inactive zone
Authors: Jiang Wenxuan , Wei Wei , Yuan Tinglian , Liu Shasha , Niu Ben , Wang Hui , Wang Wei
Published: May 2021

The schematic of single cubic-shaped Prussian blue (PB) mesocrystals formed by the oriented aggregation of small nanocrystals. The dark-field images of single PB nanoparticle at PB and Prussian white (PW) states, respectively.
Phase-field model for a weakly compressible soft layered material: morphological transitions on smectic–isotropic interfaces
Authors: Vitral Eduardo , Leo Perry H. , Viñals Jorge
Published: May 2021

Morphological transitions in smectic liquid crystals including evaporation of focal conics into conical pyramids, coalescence of cylindrical domains, and formation of droplets.
Thermal deposition method for p–n patterning of carbon nanotube sheets for planar-type thermoelectric generator
Authors: Yamaguchi Ryohei , Ishii Taiki , Matsumoto Masamichi , Borah Angana , Tanaka Naoki , Oda Kaito , Tomita Motohiro , Watanabe Takanobu , Fujigaya Tsuyohiko
Published: May 2021

Thermal deposition of n-dopant onto SWCNT sheet (p-type) using patterned mask can fabricate p–n patterns with high special resolution. Thermoelectric generator using patterned SWCNT sheets exhibited power density of 60 nW cm−2at ΔT= 25 °C.
Engineering defects in 2D g-C3N4 for wideband, efficient electromagnetic absorption at elevated temperature
Authors: Lv Hualiang , Zhou Xiaodi , Wu Guanglei , Kara Ufuoma I. , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: May 2021

Development of a porous dual-atoms doped g-C3N4 with wideband electromagnetic absorption performance and high thermal stability.
In situliquid cell transmission electron microscopy guiding the design of large-sized cocatalysts coupled with ultra-small photocatalysts for highly efficient energy harvesting
Authors: Gao Chunlang , Zhuang Chunqiang , Li Yuanli , Qi Heyang , Chen Ge , Sun Zaicheng , Zou Jin , Han Xiaodong
Published: May 2021

In situliquid cell transition electron microscopy guides the precise design of large-sized cocatalysts for highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Unravelling kinetic and mass transport effects on two-electron storage in radical polymer batteries
Authors: Zhang Kai , Xie Yuan , Noble Benjamin B. , Monteiro Michael J. , Lutkenhaus Jodie L. , Oyaizu Kenichi , Jia Zhongfan
Published: May 2021

Electron transfer and mass transport kinetics between two redox couples in nitroxide radical polymers was investigated. Such impact on two-electron storage in radical polymer batteries was exemplified by two macromolecular structures.
A remarkably ultra-sensitive large area matrix of MXene based multifunctional physical sensors (pressure, strain, and temperature) for mimicking human skin
Authors: Adepu Vivek , Mattela Venkat , Sahatiya Parikshit
Published: May 2021

An MXene based pressure, strain and temperature sensor mimicking human skin.
What we can learn from embryos to understand the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition in tumor progression
Authors: Bernardi Yanel , Strobl-Mazzulla Pablo Hernán
Published: May 2021

Epithelial plasticity involved the terminal and transitional stages that occur during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET), both are essential at different stages of early embryonic development that have been co-opted by cancer cells to undergo tumor metastasis. These processes are regulated at multiple instances, whereas the post-transcriptional regulation of key genes mediated by microRNAs is gaining major attention as a common and conserved pathway. In this review, we focus on discussing the latest findings of the cellular and molecular basis of the less characterized process of MET during embryonic development, with special attention to the role of microRNAs. Although we take in consideration the necessity of being cautious when extrapolating the obtained evidence, we propose some commonalities between early embryonic development and cancer progression that can shed light into our current understanding of this complex event and might aid in the design of specific therapeutic approaches.
Empirically comparing the performance of blockchain's consensus algorithms
Authors: Ahmad Ashar , Alabduljabbar Abdulrahman , Saad Muhammad , Nyang DaeHun , Kim Joongheon , Mohaisen David
Published: May 2021

Blockchain‐based audit systems suffer from low scalability and high message complexity. The root cause of these shortcomings is the use of “Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance” (PBFT) consensus protocol in those systems. Alternatives to PBFT have not been used in blockchain‐based audit systems due to the limited knowledge about their functional and operational requirements. Currently, no blockchain testbed supports the execution and benchmarking of different consensus protocols in a unified testing environment. This paper demonstrates building a blockchain testbed that supports the execution of five state‐of‐the‐art consensus protocols in a blockchain system; namely PBFT, Proof‐of‐Work (PoW), Proof‐of‐Stake (PoS), Proof‐of‐Elapsed Time (PoET), and Clique. Performance evaluation of those consensus algorithms is carried out using data from a real‐world audit system. These results show that the Clique protocol is best suited for blockchain‐based audit systems, based on scalability features.