bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depletable peroxidase-like activity of Fe3O4 nanozymes accompanied with separate migration of electrons and iron ions
Authors: Dong Haijiao , Du Wei , Dong Jian , Che Renchao , Kong Fei , Cheng Wenlong , Ma Ming , Gu Ning , Zhang Yu
Published: September 2022

As pioneering Fe3O4nanozymes, their explicit peroxidase (POD)-like catalytic mechanism remains elusive. Although many studies have proposed surface Fe2+-induced Fenton-like reactions accounting for their POD-like activity, few have focused on the internal atomic changes and their contribution to the catalytic reaction. Here we report that Fe2+within Fe3O4can transfer electrons to the surface via the Fe2+-O-Fe3+chain, regenerating the surface Fe2+and enabling a sustained POD-like catalytic reaction. This process usually occurs with the outward migration of excess oxidized Fe3+from the lattice, which is a rate-limiting step. After prolonged catalysis, Fe3O4nanozymes suffer the phase transformation to γ-Fe2O3with depletable POD-like activity. This self-depleting characteristic of nanozymes with internal atoms involved in electron transfer and ion migration is well validated on lithium iron phosphate nanoparticles. We reveal a neglected issue concerning the necessity of considering both surface and internal atoms when designing, modulating, and applying nanozymes.
Last Interglacial decadal sea surface temperature variability in the eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Obreht Igor , De Vleeschouwer David , Wörmer Lars , Kucera Michal , Varma Devika , Prange Matthias , Laepple Thomas , Wendt Jenny , Nandini-Weiss Sri D. , Schulz Hartmut , Hinrichs Kai-Uwe
Published: September 2022

The Last Interglacial (~129,000–116,000 years ago) is the most recent geologic period with a warmer-than-present climate. Proxy-based temperature reconstructions from this interval can help contextualize natural climate variability in our currently warming world, especially if they can define changes on decadal timescales. Here, we established a ~4.800-year-long record of sea surface temperature (SST) variability from the eastern Mediterranean Sea at 1–4-year resolution by applying mass spectrometry imaging of long-chain alkenones to a finely laminated organic-matter-rich sapropel deposited during the Last Interglacial. We observe the highest amplitude of decadal variability in the early stage of sapropel deposition, plausibly due to reduced vertical mixing of the highly stratified water column. With the subsequent reorganization of oceanographic conditions in the later stage of sapropel deposition, when SST forcing resembled the modern situation, we observe that the maximum amplitude of reconstructed decadal variability did not exceed the range of the recent period of warming climate. The more gradual, centennial SST trends reveal that the maximal centennial scale SST increase in our Last Interglacial record is below the projected temperature warming in the twenty-first century.
RNF43 mutations predict response to anti-BRAF/EGFR combinatory therapies in BRAFV600E metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Elez Elena , Ros Javier , Fernández Jose , Villacampa Guillermo , Moreno-Cárdenas Ana Belén , Arenillas Carlota , Bernatowicz Kinga , Comas Raquel , Li Shanshan , Kodack David Philip , Fasani Roberta , Garcia Ariadna , Gonzalo-Ruiz Javier , Piris-Gimenez Alejandro , Nuciforo Paolo , Kerr Grainne , Intini Rossana , Montagna Aldo , Germani Marco Maria , Randon Giovanni , Vivancos Ana , Smits Ron , Graus Diana , Perez-Lopez Raquel , Cremolini Chiara , Lonardi Sara , Pietrantonio Filippo , Dienstmann Rodrigo , Tabernero Josep , Toledo Rodrigo A.
Published: September 2022

Anti-BRAF/EGFR therapy was recently approved for the treatment of metastatic BRAFV600E colorectal cancer (mCRCBRAF-V600E). However, a large fraction of patients do not respond, underscoring the need to identify molecular determinants of treatment response. Using whole-exome sequencing in a discovery cohort of patients with mCRCBRAF-V600E treated with anti-BRAF/EGFR therapy, we found that inactivating mutations in RNF43, a negative regulator of WNT, predict improved response rates and survival outcomes in patients with microsatellite-stable (MSS) tumors. Analysis of an independent validation cohort confirmed the relevance of RNF43 mutations to predicting clinical benefit (72.7% versus 30.8%; P = 0.03), as well as longer progression-free survival (hazard ratio (HR), 0.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.12–0.75; P = 0.01) and overall survival (HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.10–0.71; P = 0.008), in patients with MSS-RNF43mutated versus MSS-RNF43wild-type tumors. Microsatellite-instable tumors invariably carried a wild-type-like RNF43 genotype encoding p.G659fs and presented an intermediate response profile. We found no association of RNF43 mutations with patient outcomes in a control cohort of patients with MSS-mCRCBRAF-V600E tumors not exposed to anti-BRAF targeted therapies. Overall, our findings suggest a cross-talk between the MAPK and WNT pathways that may modulate the antitumor activity of anti-BRAF/EGFR therapy and uncover predictive biomarkers to optimize the clinical management of these patients.
Seasonal variation in bull semen quality demonstrates there are heat-sensitive and heat-tolerant bulls
Authors: Netherton Jacob K. , Robinson Benjamin R. , Ogle Rachel A. , Gunn Allan , Villaverde Ana Izabel S. Balbin , Colyvas Kim , Wise Ced , Russo Tylah , Dowdell Amiee , Baker Mark A.
Published: September 2022

Using semen data from 1271 ejaculates (79 different bulls, 11 different breeds) we have investigated the variability of semen quality in cattle living in sub-tropical conditions. Modelling shows definitive evidence of seasonal variation. Semen quality from the same bulls had a 90% “pass rate” for cryopreservation purposes in winter, dropping to less than 50% in summer. Notably, individual bulls could be classified as either “heat-tolerant” (produce good quality spermatozoa all year regardless of temperature) or “heat-sensitive” (only produce good quality sperm in summer). Nominal logistic regression demonstrated when temperatures reach 30.5 °C, 40% of heat-sensitive bulls fail a semen analysis 17 days later. At 34 °C, the proportion of bulls failing reached 63%. Ratifying this, the purposeful heating of bulls to 40 °C for 12 h showed that individual animals had different degrees of heat-sensitivity. Using historical temperature data, we then modelled how many days/decade bulls would be subject to heat-events. Beginning from 1939 to 1949, on average, the area in which bulls were kept recorded 19, 7 and 1 day over 38 °C, 39 °C and 40 °C respectively. This number steadily increases and of last decade (2010–2010), the numbers of days per decade over 38 °C, 39 °C and 40 °C jumped to a staggering 75, 39 and 15 respectively. These data show the urgent need to identify heat-tolerant bulls as future sires. Such variation likely explains why the veterinary bull breeding test often fails to accurately predict bull breeding potential.
Tropomyosin micelles are the major components contributing to the white colour of boiled shellfish soups
Authors: Akihiro Takashi , Yasui Ryo , Yasuhira Shinji , Matsumoto Ken-ichi , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Matsuo Yasuhiro , Shimizu Hidehisa , Matsuzaki Takashi , Matsumoto Shingo , Yoshikiyo Keisuke , Ishida Hideki
Published: September 2022

Basket clam soup, a popular Asian dish, is prepared by boiling clams in hot water. The soup is generally cloudy, and it is considered that increased cloudiness enhances taste. However, the composition of the whitening ingredients and their association with taste enhancement remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to identify the components contributing to the white colour of the boiled soup. The white component upon precipitation with trichloroacetic acid reacted positively with ninhydrin, indicating the presence of proteins. The separation of proteins using sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed an intense band of size 33 kDa. Peptide mass fingerprinting of the identified protein using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry revealed the protein as tropomyosin. To validate the involvement of tropomyosin in the turbidity of the soup, tropomyosin was expressed and extracted from Escherichia coli. As expected, the purified protein suspended in water resulted in turbid appearance. To determine whether lipids have any association with the observed cloudiness of the soup, the amounts of fatty acids were measured. The proportion of estimated fatty acids was very low compared to that of proteins. Overall, we identified the major component contributing to soup cloudiness as tropomyosin forming micelles.
Ultra-low-dose in brain 18F-FDG PET/MRI in clinical settings
Authors: Soret Marine , Maisonobe Jacques-Antoine , Desarnaud Serge , Bergeret Sébastien , Causse-Lemercier Valérie , Berenbaum Arnaud , Rozenblum Laura , Habert Marie-Odile , Kas Aurélie
Published: September 2022

We previously showed that the injected activity could be reduced to 1 MBq/kg without significantly degrading image quality for the exploration of neurocognitive disorders in 18F-FDG-PET/MRI. We now hypothesized that injected activity could be reduced ten-fold. We simulated a 18F-FDG-PET/MRI ultra-low-dose protocol (0.2 MBq/Kg, PETULD) and compared it to our reference protocol (2 MBq/Kg, PETSTD) in 50 patients with cognitive impairment. We tested the reproducibility between PETULD and PETSTD using SUVratios measurements. We also assessed the impact of PETULD for between-group comparisons and for visual analysis performed by three physicians. The intra-operator agreement between visual assessment of PETSTD and PETULD in patients with severe anomalies was substantial to almost perfect (kappa > 0.79). For patients with normal metabolism or moderate hypometabolism however, it was only moderate to substantial (kappa > 0.53). SUV ratios were strongly reproducible (SUVratio difference ± SD = 0.09 ± 0.08). Between-group comparisons yielded very similar results using either PETULD or PETSTD. 18F-FDG activity may be reduced to 0.2 MBq/Kg without compromising quantitative measurements. The visual interpretation was reproducible between ultra-low-dose and standard protocol for patients with severe hypometabolism, but less so for those with moderate hypometabolism. These results suggest that a low-dose protocol (1 MBq/Kg) should be preferred in the context of neurodegenerative disease diagnosis.
Implementation of an automated workflow for image-based seafloor classification with examples from manganese-nodule covered seabed areas in the Central Pacific Ocean
Authors: Mbani Benson , Schoening Timm , Gazis Iason-Zois , Koch Reinhard , Greinert Jens
Published: September 2022

Mapping and monitoring of seafloor habitats are key tasks for fully understanding ocean ecosystems and resilience, which contributes towards sustainable use of ocean resources. Habitat mapping relies on seafloor classification typically based on acoustic methods, and ground truthing through direct sampling and optical imaging. With the increasing capabilities to record high-resolution underwater images, manual approaches for analyzing these images to create seafloor classifications are no longer feasible. Automated workflows have been proposed as a solution, in which algorithms assign pre-defined seafloor categories to each image. However, in order to provide consistent and repeatable analysis, these automated workflows need to address e.g., underwater illumination artefacts, variances in resolution and class-imbalances, which could bias the classification. Here, we present a generic implementation of an Automated and Integrated Seafloor Classification Workflow (AI-SCW). The workflow aims to classify the seafloor into habitat categories based on automated analysis of optical underwater images with only minimal amount of human annotations. AI-SCW incorporates laser point detection for scale determination and color normalization. It further includes semi-automatic generation of the training data set for fitting the seafloor classifier. As a case study, we applied the workflow to an example seafloor image dataset from the Belgian and German contract areas for Manganese-nodule exploration in the Pacific Ocean. Based on this, we provide seafloor classifications along the camera deployment tracks, and discuss results in the context of seafloor multibeam bathymetry. Our results show that the seafloor in the Belgian area predominantly comprises densely distributed nodules, which are intermingled with qualitatively larger-sized nodules at local elevations and within depressions. On the other hand, the German area primarily comprises nodules that only partly cover the seabed, and these occur alongside turned-over sediment (artificial seafloor) that were caused by the settling plume following a dredging experiment conducted in the area.
Seasonal bacterial niche structures and chemolithoautotrophic ecotypes in a North Atlantic fjord
Authors: Raes Eric J. , Tolman Jennifer , Desai Dhwani , Ratten Jenni-Marie , Zorz Jackie , Robicheau Brent M. , Haider Diana , LaRoche Julie
Published: September 2022

Quantifying the temporal change of bacterial communities is essential to understanding how both natural and anthropogenic pressures impact the functions of coastal marine ecosystems. Here we use weekly microbial DNA sampling across four years to show that bacterial phyla have distinct seasonal niches, with a richness peak in winter (i.e., an inverse relationship with daylength). Our results suggest that seasonal fluctuations, rather than the kinetic energy or resource hypotheses, dominated the pattern of bacterial diversity. These findings supplement those from global analyses which lack temporal replication and present few data from winter months in polar and temperate regions. Centered log-ratio transformed data provided new insights into the seasonal niche partitioning of conditionally rare phyla, such as Modulibacteria, Verrucomicrobiota, Synergistota, Deinococcota, and Fermentibacterota. These patterns could not be identified using the standard practice of ASV generation followed by rarefaction. Our study provides evidence that five globally relevant ecotypes of chemolithoautotrophic bacteria from the SUP05 lineage comprise a significant functional group with varying seasonal dominance patterns in the Bedford Basin.
Study of wide bandgap SnOx thin films grown by a reactive magnetron sputtering via a two-step method
Authors: Zakaria Y. , Aïssa B. , Fix T. , Ahzi S. , Samara A. , Mansour S. , Slaoui A.
Published: September 2022

In the present work, we report on the microstructural and optoelectronic properties of SnOx thin films deposited by a reactive radio frequency magnetron sputtering. After SnOx growth by sputtering under O2/Ar flow, we have used three different treatment methods, namely (1) as deposited films under O2/Ar, (2) vacuum annealed films ex-situ, and (3) air annealed films ex-situ. Effects of the O2/Ar ratios and the growth temperature were investigated for each treatment method. We have thoroughly investigated the structural, optical, electrical and morphology of the different films by several advanced techniques. The best compromise between electrical conductivity and optical transmission for the use of these SnOx films as an n-type TCO was the conditions O2/Ar = 1.5% during the growth process, at 250 °C, followed by a vacuum post thermal annealing performed at 5 × 10–4 Torr. Our results pointed out clear correlations between the growth conditions, the microstructural and optoelectronic properties, where highly electrically conductive films were found to be associated to larger grains size microstructure. Effects of O2/Ar flow and the thermal annealing process were also analysed and discussed thoroughly.
Formation of polymorphs and pores in small nanocrystalline iron oxide particles
Authors: Levish Alexander , Winterer Markus
Published: September 2022

A novel chemical vapor synthesis reactor design is used to control the pore-particle mesostructure and investigate the pore formation mechanism through the variation of residence time in oxygen. This enables the exploitation of the Kirkendall effect at the nanoscale to generate ultrasmall pores in small nanocrystalline iron oxide particles. Detailed structural characterization and quantitative data analysis of complementary high resolution transmission electron microscopy images, X-ray diffractograms, nitrogen sorption isotherms and X-ray absorption spectra provide a consistent comprehensive picture of the hollow nanoparticles from the local to the microstructure. The pore formation mechanism seems to play a key role for β-Fe2O3 polymorph formation.
Sex differences in 50 kHz call subtypes emitted during tickling-induced playful behaviour in rats
Authors: Tivey Emma K. L. , Martin Jessica E. , Brown Sarah M. , Bombail Vincent , Lawrence Alistair B. , Meddle Simone L.
Published: September 2022

‘Tickling’ induces positive affective states in laboratory rats as evidenced by the production of 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalisations (USVs), although this has mostly been investigated in males. Juvenile rats emit distinctive 50-kHz USV subtypes. Frequency-modulated (FM) 50-kHz USVs are thought to be associated with positive affect and flat 50-kHz USVs with social communication. FM and flat USVs are produced by both sexes during tickling, but it is unclear whether these calls are produced in relation to particular play-related behaviours, and whether USV subtypes are used in a sexually dimorphic manner during tickling. We tested the hypotheses that FM USVs are associated with tickle-induced play behaviours in a sex-specific way, and that flat USVs are associated with non-play activities. Rats were allocated to one of two treatment groups: tickling (tickled, n = 16/sex) or no hand contact (control, n = 16/sex). Play behaviours (hopping, darting and hand approaches) and FM and flat USVs emitted during the testing session were quantified for each rat, with the frequency of FM and flat USVs made in anticipation of, and during, each behaviour analysed. In females, play behaviours were associated with more flat USVs than in males (before and during; p < 0.001), irrespective of treatment. FM USVs were paired with hopping and darting (before and during; p < 0.001), and in anticipation of hand approaches (p < 0.001) in both tickled females and males compared to controls (both sexes) suggesting that FM USVs are linked with play behaviour. The higher call rate of flat USVs paired with play behaviour in females suggests that there may be sex differences in the role of flat USVs during play. This result is evidence of sex differences in tickle-induced behaviours and has implications for our understanding of the function of different USVs in juvenile female and male rats.
Effect of short-term high fat diet on resistin levels and expression of autophagy-related genes in the cartilage of male rats
Authors: Aboudeya Hebatallah Mohammed , Shaker Sara A. , Salama Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Obesity is a significant risk factor for the development of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, the precise molecular mechanisms linking obesity to OA remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effect of short-term high-fat diet (HFD) on the development of OA and the possible role of the adipokine resistin and autophagy-related genes in mediating this effect. Thirty adult male Wistar rats were equally divided into 2 groups: control and obese groups. Body mass index (BMI), levels of lipid profile, glucose, insulin and HOMA-IR index were significantly higher in the obese group compared with control. Our results revealed significantly higher serum and cartilage resistin levels with a significant increase in the mRNA expressions of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) as well as protein levels of IL-1β, matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), ADAMTS 5 (aggrecanase-2) and caspase-3 in the cartilage of obese rats. The HFD induced a significant upregulation of autophagy related 5 (ATG5), beclin-1 and light chain 3 (LC3) mRNA expressions and a significant downregulation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) expression in cartilage. The protein levels of cartilage ATG5 were also significantly elevated in HFD-fed group. In conclusion, we suggested that increased levels of resistin and expression of autophagy-related genes may contribute in part, to OA development in HFD-fed rats. This provides a novel insight into the early molecular changes in the cartilage associated with obesity.
No association between prenatal lead exposure and neurodevelopment during early childhood in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Inoue Hirosuke , Sanefuji Masafumi , Sonoda Yuri , Ogawa Masanobu , Hamada Norio , Shimono Masayuki , Suga Reiko , Nakayama Shoji F. , Taniguchi Yu , Kusuhara Koichi , Ohga Shouichi , Kamijima Michihiro ,   The Japan Environment and Children’s Study Group, Kamijima Michihiro , Yamazaki Shin , Ohya Yukihiro , Kishi Reiko , Yaegashi Nobuo , Hashimoto Koichi , Mori Chisato , Ito Shuichi , Yamagata Zentaro , Inadera Hidekuni , Nakayama Takeo , Iso Hiroyasu , Shima Masayuki , Nakamura Hiroshige , Suganuma Narufumi , Kusuhara Koichi , Katoh Takahiko
Published: September 2022

Compared with the relatively well-investigated effects of childhood exposure to lead on neurocognitive deficits, those of prenatal exposure remain relatively inconclusive. We aimed to investigate the association between prenatal blood lead levels and neurodevelopmental delay during the first three years of life. From a prospective cohort of the Japan Environment and Children’s Study, we analyzed a total of 80,759 children. The exposure factors were prenatal lead concentrations measured from maternal whole blood in the second/third trimesters and umbilical cord blood at birth. Neurodevelopment was assessed at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months old using a screening tool, the Ages and Stages Questionnaires, third edition (ASQ). The outcome measures were any suspected neurodevelopmental delay (sNDD) identified via the ASQ during the first (sNDD-1Y), second (sNDD-2Y), and third (sNDD-3Y) years of life. sNDD-1Y, 2Y, and 3Y were identified in 18.0%, 16.2%, and 17.2% of children, respectively. The geometric means of blood lead concentration in this study were much lower (0.62 μg/dL in maternal blood and 0.50 μg/dL in cord blood) than previously investigated levels. Multivariable regression models revealed that there were no associations between maternal blood lead and sNDD-1Y and 2Y and between cord blood lead and sNDD-1Y, 2Y, and 3Y. Although a higher maternal blood lead was associated with a reduced risk of sNDD-3Y (adjusted relative risk: 0.84, 95% confidence interval 0.75–0.94, per 1 increase in common logarithm of lead concentration), there were no dose–response relationships in the analysis using quintiles of lead concentrations. Using a large-scale data set, the present study demonstrated no convincing evidence for an inverse association between levels of prenatal blood lead and neurodevelopment in early childhood. Longitudinal measurements of prenatal and postnatal lead levels are needed to understand the relationship between lead exposure and neurocognitive development.
Photobiomodulation regulates adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus in a status epilepticus animal model
Authors: Hong Namgue , Kang Gi Won , Park Ji On , Chung Phil-Sang , Lee Min Young , Ahn Jin-Chul
Published: September 2022

Status epilepticus (SE) refers to a single seizure that lasts longer than typical seizures or a series of consecutive seizures. The hippocampus, which is vulnerable to the effects of SE, has a critical role in memory storage and retrieval. The trisynaptic loop in the hippocampus connects the substructures thereof, namely the dentate gyrus (DG), CA3, and CA1. In an animal model of SE, abnormal neurogenesis in the DG and aberrant neural network formation result in sequential neural degeneration in CA3 and CA1. Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, previously known as low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT), is a novel therapy for the treatment of various neurological disorders including SE. However, the effects of this novel therapeutic approach on the recovery process are poorly understood. In the present study, we found that PBM transformed SE-induced abnormal neurogenesis to normal neurogenesis. We demonstrated that PBM plays a key role in normal hippocampal neurogenesis by enhancing the migration of maturing granular cells (early neuronal cells) to the GCL, and that normal neurogenesis induced by PBM prevents SE-induced hippocampal neuronal loss in CA1. Thus, PBM is a novel approach to prevent seizure-induced neuronal degeneration, for which light devices may be developed in the future.
Musical training refines audiovisual integration but does not influence temporal recalibration
Authors: O’Donohue Matthew , Lacherez Philippe , Yamamoto Naohide
Published: September 2022

When the brain is exposed to a temporal asynchrony between the senses, it will shift its perception of simultaneity towards the previously experienced asynchrony (temporal recalibration). It is unknown whether recalibration depends on how accurately an individual integrates multisensory cues or on experiences they have had over their lifespan. Hence, we assessed whether musical training modulated audiovisual temporal recalibration. Musicians (n = 20) and non-musicians (n = 18) made simultaneity judgements to flash-tone stimuli before and after adaptation to asynchronous (± 200 ms) flash-tone stimuli. We analysed these judgements via an observer model that described the left and right boundaries of the temporal integration window (decisional criteria) and the amount of sensory noise that affected these judgements. Musicians’ boundaries were narrower (closer to true simultaneity) than non-musicians’, indicating stricter criteria for temporal integration, and they also exhibited enhanced sensory precision. However, while both musicians and non-musicians experienced cumulative and rapid recalibration, these recalibration effects did not differ between the groups. Unexpectedly, cumulative recalibration was caused by auditory-leading but not visual-leading adaptation. Overall, these findings suggest that the precision with which observers perceptually integrate audiovisual temporal cues does not predict their susceptibility to recalibration.
Survival comparison between endoscopic and surgical resection for non-ampullary duodenal neuroendocrine tumor (1–2 cm)
Authors: Xie Jiebin , Zhang Yuan , He Ming , Liu Xu , Xie Pin , Pang Yueshan
Published: September 2022

The treatment plan for non-ampullary duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (d-NETs) with diameters 1–2 cm remains controversial. We therefore aimed to compare the prognostic effects of endoscopic treatment and surgical resection on non-ampullary d-NETs with 1–2 cm diameters. A total of 373 eligible patients were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to match patients 1:1 according to clinicopathological characteristics. Disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated. Before PSM, there was no significant difference in DSS or OS (all P > 0.05), but the T stage, N stage, and TNM stage were significantly different between the two surgical methods (all P < 0.05). After 1:1 PSM, the differences in clinicopathological characteristics were significantly reduced (all P > 0.05). Survival analysis showed that tumor grade was correlated with DSS and that age was correlated with OS (all P < 0.05); however, the surgical method and other clinicopathological characteristics were not correlated with prognosis (all P > 0.05). Subgroup survival analysis of patients with T2N0M0 disease and tumors invading the lamina propria or submucosa showed that the 5-year DSS and OS rates were not significantly different according to the surgical approach (all P > 0.05). The surgical approach has no significant effect on the prognosis of patients with non-ampullary d-NETs with 1–2 cm diameters, especially those with T2N0M0 disease. This suggests that endoscopic treatment may be a preferred option for these patients.
Cocaine’s cerebrovascular vasoconstriction is associated with astrocytic Ca2+ increase in mice
Authors: Liu Yanzuo , Hua Yueming , Park Kicheon , Volkow Nora D. , Pan Yingtian , Du Congwu
Published: September 2022

Human and animal studies have reported widespread reductions in cerebral blood flow associated with chronic cocaine exposures. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cerebral blood flow reductions are not well understood. Here, by combining a multimodal imaging platform with a genetically encoded calcium indicator, we simultaneously measured the effects of acute cocaine on neuronal and astrocytic activity, tissue oxygenation, hemodynamics and vascular diameter changes in the mouse cerebral cortex. Our results showed that cocaine constricted blood vessels (measured by vessel diameter Φ changes), decreasing cerebral total blood volume (HbT) and temporally reducing tissue oxygenation. Cellular imaging showed that the mean astrocytic Ca2+ dependent fluorescence $$(\Delta {F/F}_{{{{\rm{Ca}}}^{2+}}{\mbox{-}{{{\rm{G(A)}}}}}})$$

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increase in response to cocaine was weaker but longer lasting than the mean neuronal Ca2+ dependent fluorescence $$(\Delta {F/F}_{{{{\rm{Ca}}}^{2+}}{\mbox{-}{{{\rm{G(N)}}}}}})$$

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changes. Interestingly, while cocaine-induced $$\Delta {F/F}_{{{{\rm{Ca}}}^{2+}}{\mbox{-}{{{\rm{G(N)}}}}}}$$
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increase was temporally correlated with tissue oxygenation change, the $$\Delta {F/F}_{{{{\rm{Ca}}}^{2+}}{\mbox{-}{{{\rm{G(A)}}}}}}$$
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elevation after cocaine was in temporal correspondence with the long-lasting decrease in arterial blood volumes. To determine whether the temporal association between astrocytic activation and cocaine induced vasoconstriction reflected a causal association we inhibited astrocytic Ca2+ using GFAP-DREADD(Gi). Inhibition of astrocytes attenuated the vasoconstriction resulting from cocaine, providing evidence that astrocytes play a critical role in cocaine’s vasoconstrictive effects in the brain. These results indicate that neurons and astrocytes play different roles in mediating neurovascular coupling in response to cocaine. Our findings implicate neuronal activation as the main driver of the short-lasting reduction in tissue oxygenation and astrocyte long-lasting activation as the driver of the persistent vasoconstriction with cocaine. Understanding the cellular and vascular interaction induced by cocaine will be helpful for future putative treatments to reduce cerebrovascular pathology from cocaine use.
In situ grown oxygen-vacancy-rich copper oxide nanosheets on a copper foam electrode afford the selective oxidation of alcohols to value-added chemicals
Authors: Khan Mustafa , Hameed Asima , Samad Abdus , Mushiana Talifhani , Abdullah Muhammad Imran , Akhtar Asma , Ashraf Raja Shahid , Zhang Ning , Pollet Bruno G. , Schwingenschlögl Udo , Ma Mingming
Published: September 2022

Selective oxidation of low-molecular-weight aliphatic alcohols like methanol and ethanol into carboxylates in acid/base hybrid electrolytic cells offers reduced process operating costs for the generation of fuels and value-added chemicals, which is environmentally and economically more desirable than their full oxidation to CO2. Herein, we report the in-situ fabrication of oxygen-vacancies-rich CuO nanosheets on a copper foam (CF) via a simple ultrasonication-assisted acid-etching method. The CuO/CF monolith electrode enables efficient and selective electrooxidation of ethanol and methanol into value-added acetate and formate with ~100% selectivity. First principles calculations reveal that oxygen vacancies in CuO nanosheets efficiently regulate the surface chemistry and electronic structure, provide abundant active sites, and enhance charge transfer that facilitates the adsorption of reactant molecules on the catalyst surface. The as-prepared CuO/CF monolith electrode shows excellent stability for alcohol oxidation at current densities >200 mA·cm2 for 24 h. Moreover, the abundant oxygen vacancies significantly enhance the intrinsic indicators of the catalyst in terms of specific activity and outstanding turnover frequencies of 5.8k s−1 and 6k s−1 for acetate and formate normalized by their respective faradaic efficiencies at an applied potential of 1.82 V vs. RHE.
Sporopollenin-inspired design and synthesis of robust polymeric materials
Authors: Glinkerman Christopher M. , Lin Shaoting , Ni Jiahua , Li Fu-Shuang , Zhao Xuanhe , Weng Jing-Ke
Published: September 2022

Sporopollenin is a mechanically robust and chemically inert biopolymer that constitutes the outer protective exine layer of plant spores and pollen grains. Recent investigation of the molecular structure of pine sporopollenin revealed unique monomeric units and inter-unit linkages distinct from other previously known biopolymers, which could be harnessed for new material design. Herein, we report the bioinspired synthesis of a series of sporopollenin analogues. This exercise confirms large portions of our previously proposed pine sporopollenin structural model, while the measured chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the synthetic sporopollenins constitute favorable attributes of a new kind of robust material. This study explores a new design framework of robust materials inspired by natural sporopollenins, and provides insights and reagents for future elucidation and engineering of sporopollenin biosynthesis in plants.
Subsurface Archaea associated with rapid geobiological change in a model Yellowstone hot spring
Authors: Colman Daniel R. , Amenabar Maximiliano J. , Fernandes-Martins Maria C. , Boyd Eric S.
Published: September 2022

Despite over a century of study, it is unknown if continental hydrothermal fields support high-temperature subsurface biospheres. Cinder Pool is among the deepest hot springs in Yellowstone and is widely studied due to unique sulfur geochemistry that is attributed to hydrolysis of molten elemental sulfur at ∼18 m depth that promotes several chemical reactions that maintain low sulfide, low oxygen, and a moderate pH of ∼4.0. Following ∼100 years of stability, Cinder Pool underwent extreme visual and chemical change (acidification) in 2018. Here, we show that depth-resolved geochemical and metagenomic-based microbial community analyses pre- (2016) and post-acidification (2020) indicate the changes are likely attributable to feedbacks between geological/geochemical processes, sulfur oxidation by subsurface Sulfolobales Archaea, and the disappearance of molten sulfur at depth. These findings underscore the dynamic and rapid feedback between the geosphere and biosphere in continental hydrothermal fields and suggest subsurface biospheres to be more prevalent in these systems than previously recognized.
Anthropogenic aerosol and cryosphere changes drive Earth’s strong but transient clear-sky hemispheric albedo asymmetry
Authors: Diamond Michael S. , Gristey Jake J. , Kay Jennifer E. , Feingold Graham
Published: September 2022

A striking feature of the Earth system is that the Northern and Southern Hemispheres reflect identical amounts of sunlight. This hemispheric albedo symmetry comprises two asymmetries: The Northern Hemisphere is more reflective in clear skies, whereas the Southern Hemisphere is cloudier. Here we show that the hemispheric reflection contrast from differences in continental coverage is offset by greater reflection from the Antarctic than the Arctic, allowing the net clear-sky asymmetry to be dominated by aerosol. Climate model simulations suggest that historical anthropogenic aerosol emissions drove a large increase in the clear-sky asymmetry that would reverse in future low-emission scenarios. High-emission scenarios also show decreasing asymmetry, instead driven by declines in Northern Hemisphere ice and snow cover. Strong clear-sky hemispheric albedo asymmetry is therefore a transient feature of Earth’s climate. If all-sky symmetry is maintained, compensating cloud changes would have uncertain but important implications for Earth’s energy balance and hydrological cycle.
Fluid–Structure Interactions in Plant Vascular Flows
Authors: Jensen Kaare H.
Published: September 2022

Vascular conduits in plants are soft enough to deform in response to stresses from the fluid flows they carry. Yet fluid stresses are in turn affected by channel deformation. This leads to interesting coupled elasto-viscous phenomena. This chapter explores fluid–structure interactions related to plant vascular transport across scales. We begin by discussing the link between the bending of a branch and cellular pressure. This is followed by an examination of flow and mechanical stability in conduits under tension. Next, the effects of elasticity in intercellular transport are scrutinised. Finally, the energetic cost of cytoplasmic streaming is discussed.
Valence-shell ionization of acetyl cyanide: simulation of the photoelectron and infra-red spectra
Authors: Carniato Stéphane
Published: September 2022

Simulated vibrational profiles of the 1st and 2nd lines of the valence photoelectron spectrum of CH3COCN in gas phase. For the second band (A′′), activation of the torsion mode induced by the rotation (60 degrees) of the methyl group is evidenced.
Operando PEPICO unveils the catalytic fast pyrolysis mechanism of the three methoxyphenol isomers
Authors: Pan Zeyou , Bodi Andras , van Bokhoven Jeroen A. , Hemberger Patrick
Published: September 2022

Demethylation, demethoxylation and fulvenone ketene formation determine the reactivity of methoxyphenols over H-ZSM-5 to yield phenols, benzene and toluene. Intermediates are isomer-selectively detected utilizing threshold photoelectron spectroscopy.
Velocity map images of desorbing oxygen from sub-surface states of Rh(111)
Authors: Dorst Arved C. , Güthoff Friedrich , Schauermann Daniel , Wodtke Alec M. , Killelea Daniel R. , Schäfer Tim
Published: September 2022

We combine velocity map imaging with TPD to record velocity distributions of recombinatively-desorbing O2 from Rh(111). We assign the distributions to desorption from specific states by matching the distributions to the desorption temperature.
The preparation and electrochemical properties of Nd0.6Sr0.4Fe1−xZnxO3−δ cathode materials for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Xu Du , Songbo Li , Shengli An , Yang Ni , Liangmei Xue
Published: September 2022

Nd0.6Sr0.4Fe1−xZnxO3−δ perovskite oxides were prepared by solid state synthesis and applied as solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathodes.
From symmetry breaking in the bulk to phase transitions at the surface: a quantum-mechanical exploration of Li6PS5Cl argyrodite superionic conductor
Authors: D'Amore Maddalena , Daga Loredana Edith , Rocca Riccardo , Sgroi Mauro Francesco , Marana Naiara Leticia , Casassa Silvia Maria , Maschio Lorenzo , Ferrari Anna Maria
Published: September 2022

Lithium superionic conductor electrolytes may enable the safe use of metallic lithium anodes in all-solid-state batteries. The incoming formation of interphases may play an essential role in the stability of the solid electrolyte.
Post-synthesis functionalization of ZIF-90 with sulfonate groups for high proton conduction
Authors: Lian Yu-Xiang , Liu Shan-Shan , Sun Jun-Jun , Luo Peng , Dong Xi-Yan , Liu Xiao-Fei , Zang Shuang-Quan
Published: September 2022

The introduction of a sulfonate group can increase the hydrophilicity of the material and form an efficient proton conduction pathway to promote the proton conductivity of the material.
Atomistic insights into the hydrodefluorination of PFAS using silylium catalysts
Authors: Jenness Glen R. , Koval Ashlyn M. , Etz Brian D. , Shukla Manoj K.
Published: September 2022

Fluorochemicals are a persistent environmental contaminant that require specialized techniques for degradation and capture.
In-field LAMP assay for rapid detection of human faecal contamination in environmental water
Authors: Khodaparast Meysam , Sharley Dave , Best Nickala , Marshall Stephen , Beddoe Travis
Published: September 2022

The Bac-LAMP assay enables the specific detection of human faecal contamination in water in the field by a non-expert technician.
Catalyst-free benzylic C(sp3)–H cross-coupling with organotrifluoroborates enabled by electrochemistry
Authors: Li Chao , Ding Ran , Guo Heng-Yi , Xia Shuang , Shu Lei , Wang Pei-Long , Li Hongji
Published: September 2022

An electrochemical benzylic C(sp3)–H cross-coupling with organotrifluoroborates without any catalyst or external electrolyte has been developed.
Deep eutectic solvents as a stabilising medium for NAD coenzyme: unravelling the mechanism behind coenzyme stabilisation effect
Authors: Radović Mia , Hok Lucija , Panić Manuela , Cvjetko Bubalo Marina , Vianello Robert , Vinković Marijana , Radojčić Redovniković Ivana
Published: September 2022

DES choline chloride:urea effectively stabilises NAD coenzyme up to 50 days at room temperature. Consequently, this solvent could be used to minimise NAD degradation during storage, assays, and enzyme-catalysed oxidoreductive reactions.
Cyclohexanone ammoximation via in situ H2O2 production using TS-1 supported catalysts
Authors: Lewis Richard J. , Ueura Kenji , Fukuta Yukimasa , Davies Thomas E. , Morgan David J. , Paris Charlie B. , Singleton James , Edwards Jennifer. K. , Freakley Simon J. , Yamamoto Yasushi , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: September 2022

The in situ synthesis of H2O2 offers an attractive alternative to the current industrial route to cyclohexanone oxime, a major precursor to Nylon-6.
Bending stiffness of Candida albicans hyphae as a proxy of cell wall properties
Authors: Couttenier Elodie , Bachellier-Bassi Sophie , d'Enfert Christophe , Villard Catherine
Published: September 2022

Hydrodynamic forces applied in a microfluidic device on hyphae of C. albicans allow to measure their bending stiffness in a control situation as well as under various pharmacological, mechanical and genetical perturbations.
Recent advances on drug delivery nanoplatforms for the treatment of autoimmune inflammatory diseases
Authors: Zhu Jing , Chen Weihong , Sun Yuansong , Huang Xiaoyi , Chu Ruixi , Wang Rui , Zhou Deqing , Ye Sheng
Published: September 2022

As one of the current research hotspots, drug release nanoplatforms have great potential in the treatment of autoimmune inflammatory diseases.
Synthesis and characterization of MoxFe1−xO nanocomposites for the ultra-fast degradation of methylene blue via a Fenton-like process: a green approach
Authors: Basak Shatarupa , Sikdar Suranjan , Ali Salim , Mondal Modhusudan , Roy Debadrita , Dakua Vikas Kumar , Roy Mahendra Nath
Published: September 2022

A detailed degradation study of methylene blue within 22 minutes by the green synthesis of MoxFe1−xO nanocomposites using Punica granatum peel extract.
Tunability of the electronic properties and contact types of the silicane/MoSi2N4heterostructure under an electric field
Authors: Pham Khang D.
Published: September 2022

Stacking different two-dimensional materials to generate a vertical heterostructure has been considered a promising way to obtain the desired properties and to improve the device performance.
A single chain magnet based on a 1D polymeric selenite-bridged Mn(iii) complex with an N2O2 donor
Authors: Zhang Shao-Liang , Yue Cai-Ran , Dong Yi-Nuo , Liu Xiao-Na , Wang Yan-Lan , Li Shan-Shan
Published: September 2022

A novel molecular magnetic material with the formula of {[Mn2(salen)2(C4H3SSeO2)](ClO4)}n (Complex 1) [salen = N,N′-(ethylene)bis(salicylideneiminato)] was designed, synthesized and characterized structurally and magnetically.
One-pot synthesis of multisubstituted spirocyclopropanes mediated by α-picoline
Authors: Ma Huifang , Liang Jie , Ablajan Keyume
Published: September 2022

An efficient methodology was developed for the synthesis of multisubstituted spirocyclopropanes. A variety of spirocyclopropanes were obtained in moderate to excellent yields by reacting isatin or acenaphthoquinone with α-bromo(chloro)acetophenone mediated by ɑ-picoline.
Tailored polyethylene glycol grafting on porous nanoparticles for enhanced targeting and intracellular siRNA delivery
Authors: Yoo Jounghyun , Kim Kyunghwan , Kim Suhyun , Park Hee Ho , Shin Heungsoo , Joo Jinmyoung
Published: September 2022

Conformational transition of PEG on a mesoporous surface for advancing cell recognition and uptake for targeted siRNA delivery.
Asymmetric synthesis of (+)-teratosphaerone B, its non-natural analogue and (+)-xylarenone using an ene- and naphthol reductase cascade
Authors: Manna Tanaya , De Arijit , Nurjamal Khondekar , Husain Syed Masood
Published: September 2022

Bienzyme cascade reduction of putative biosynthetic naphthoquinone substrates give easy access to natural naphthalenones with high yields and high stereoselectivity.
KRE(CO3)2 (RE = Eu, Gd, Tb): new mixed metal carbonates with strong photoluminescence and large birefringence
Authors: Lin Yuan , Hu Chun-Li , Fang Zhi , Chen Jin , Xie Wei-Jie , Chen Yan , Wang Jian-Pu , Mao Jiang-Gao
Published: September 2022

Three new potassium rare earth carbonates KRE(CO3)2 (RE = Eu, Gd, Tb) with strong photoluminescence and large birefringence were synthesized successfully.
Therapeutic deep eutectic solvent-based microemulsion enhances anti-inflammatory efficacy of curcuminoids and aromatic-turmerone extracted fromCurcuma longaL.
Authors: Supaweera Nassareen , Chulrik Wanatsanan , Jansakun Chutima , Bhoopong Phuangthip , Yusakul Gorawit , Chunglok Warangkana
Published: September 2022

A novel HDES-based microemulsion system with anti-inflammatory activity serves as an extraction solvent ofCurcuma longaL.
Preparation and catalytic properties of polydopamine-modified polyacrylonitrile fibers functionalized with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyu , Liu Huiying , Wu Yingying , Ye Jing , Li Yacheng , Liu Zhendong
Published: September 2022

Via the help of polydopamine, polyacrylonitrile fiber catalysts functionalized with silver nanoparticles were prepared and employed for the reduction reaction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol, with a yield of 98% in 30 minutes, and can be reused for up to 10 cycles.
Bioactive compounds from hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seeds: optimization of phenolic antioxidant extraction using simplex lattice mixture design and HPLC-DAD/ESI-MS2 analysis
Authors: Benkirane Chaymae , Ben Moumen Abdessamad , Fauconnier Marie-Laure , Belhaj Kamal , Abid Malika , Caid Hana Serghini , Elamrani Ahmed , Mansouri Farid
Published: September 2022

The extraction of phenolic compounds from hemp seeds was optimized using a mixture design. 50% aqueous acetone was the optimal solvent to extract 33 phenolic compounds with a richness in hydroxycinnamic acid amides and lignanamides.
Measurement and the improvement of effective thermal conductivity for a metal hydride bed – a review
Authors: Ye Jianhua , Li Zhinian , Zhang Liyu , Wang Shumao , Jiang Lijun
Published: September 2022

Solid-state hydrogen storage based on metal hydrides is considered a promising method for hydrogen storage.
Electron transport properties of PtSe2 nanoribbons with distinct edge reconstructions
Authors: Zheng Peiru , Jiang Yanyan , Li Hui , Dai Xinyue
Published: September 2022

Edge reconstructions of two-dimensional (2D) materials play a central role in determining the electronic transport properties of nanodevices.
Regulating interface Schottky barriers toward a high-performance self-powered imaging photodetector
Authors: Yan Jun , Gao Feng , Gong Weiqiang , Tian Yongzhi , Li Lin
Published: September 2022

A facile method of regulating interface Schottky barriers is used for self-powered photodetectors. Benefitting from the excellent built-in electrical potential, the detector can exhibit high-fidelity imaging capability.
Correction: Oxa-376 and Oxa-530 variants of β-lactamase: computational study uncovers potential therapeutic targets of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Halder Sajal Kumar , Mim Maria Mulla , Alif Md. Meharab Hassan , Shathi Jannatul Fardous , Alam Md. Nuhu , Shil Aparna , Himel Mahbubul Kabir
Published: September 2022

Correction for ‘Oxa-376 and Oxa-530 variants of β-lactamase: computational study uncovers potential therapeutic targets of Acinetobacter baumannii’ by Sajal Kumar Halder et al., RSC Adv., 2022, 12, 24319–24338, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2RA02939A.