bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep learning for the fully automated segmentation of the inner ear on MRI
Authors: Vaidyanathan Akshayaa , van der Lubbe Marly F. J. A. , Leijenaar Ralph T. H. , van Hoof Marc , Zerka Fadila , Miraglio Benjamin , Primakov Sergey , Postma Alida A. , Bruintjes Tjasse D. , Bilderbeek Monique A. L. , Sebastiaan Hammer , Dammeijer Patrick F. M. , van Rompaey Vincent , Woodruff Henry C. , Vos Wim , Walsh Seán , van de Berg Raymond , Lambin Philippe
Published: February 2021

Segmentation of anatomical structures is valuable in a variety of tasks, including 3D visualization, surgical planning, and quantitative image analysis. Manual segmentation is time-consuming and deals with intra and inter-observer variability. To develop a deep-learning approach for the fully automated segmentation of the inner ear in MRI, a 3D U-net was trained on 944 MRI scans with manually segmented inner ears as reference standard. The model was validated on an independent, multicentric dataset consisting of 177 MRI scans from three different centers. The model was also evaluated on a clinical validation set containing eight MRI scans with severe changes in the morphology of the labyrinth. The 3D U-net model showed precise Dice Similarity Coefficient scores (mean DSC-0.8790) with a high True Positive Rate (91.5%) and low False Discovery Rate and False Negative Rates (14.8% and 8.49% respectively) across images from three different centers. The model proved to perform well with a DSC of 0.8768 on the clinical validation dataset. The proposed auto-segmentation model is equivalent to human readers and is a reliable, consistent, and efficient method for inner ear segmentation, which can be used in a variety of clinical applications such as surgical planning and quantitative image analysis.
Lsr2, a nucleoid-associated protein influencing mycobacterial cell cycle
Authors: Kołodziej Marta , Trojanowski Damian , Bury Katarzyna , Hołówka Joanna , Matysik Weronika , Kąkolewska Hanna , Feddersen Helge , Giacomelli Giacomo , Konieczny Igor , Bramkamp Marc , Zakrzewska-Czerwińska Jolanta
Published: February 2021

Nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs) are responsible for maintaining highly organized and yet dynamic chromosome structure in bacteria. The genus Mycobacterium possesses a unique set of NAPs, including Lsr2, which is a DNA-bridging protein. Importantly, Lsr2 is essential for the M. tuberculosis during infection exhibiting pleiotropic activities including regulation of gene expression (mainly as a repressor). Here, we report that deletion of lsr2 gene profoundly impacts the cell morphology of M. smegmatis, which is a model organism for studying the cell biology of M. tuberculosis and other mycobacterial pathogens. Cells lacking Lsr2 are shorter, wider, and more rigid than the wild-type cells. Using time-lapse fluorescent microscopy, we showed that fluorescently tagged Lsr2 forms large and dynamic nucleoprotein complexes, and that the N-terminal oligomerization domain of Lsr2 is indispensable for the formation of nucleoprotein complexes in vivo. Moreover, lsr2 deletion exerts a significant effect on the replication time and replisome dynamics. Thus, we propose that the Lsr2 nucleoprotein complexes may contribute to maintaining the proper organization of the newly synthesized DNA and therefore influencing mycobacterial cell cycle.
Terroir and vintage discrimination of Malbec wines based on phenolic composition across multiple sites in Mendoza, Argentina
Authors: Urvieta Roy , Jones Gregory , Buscema Fernando , Bottini Rubén , Fontana Ariel
Published: February 2021

This study evaluated the phenolic profiles of Malbec wines made from grapes of 23 parcels distributed in 12 geographical indications (GIs) from Mendoza, Argentina. Wines were elaborated under standardized winemaking conditions over three consecutive vintages (2016–2018). Data discriminated wines from different GIs and parcels, based on an integrative data analysis by chemometric tools. Vintage effect and specific phenolic compounds were associated with some GIs or parcels. As well, regional climate conditions allowed partial discrimination of the GIs (and also some parcels). A random forest analysis correctly identified 11 out of 23 individual parcels across the different vintages. The most notorious compounds associated with such classification were p-coumaric acid, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, caffeic acid, quercetin and peonidin-3-O-glucoside. The presented research allows to individualize, through phenolic profiles, parcels with unique characteristics over years. This is the first report characterizing Malbec wines coming from several GIs (and individual parcels) in different vintages. These results are strongly related to terroir features of wines, contributing to a better communication to consumers and to position Argentinean wines.
Serum matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) is a biomarker of fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Irvine Katharine M. , Okano Satomi , Patel Preya J. , Horsfall Leigh U. , Williams Suzanne , Russell Anthony , Powell Elizabeth E.
Published: February 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects 25% of the adult population globally. Since liver fibrosis is the most important predictor of liver-related complications in patients with NAFLD, identification of patients with advanced fibrosis among at-risk individuals is an important issue in clinical practice. Transient elastography is the best evaluated non-invasive method used in referral centres to assess liver fibrosis, however serum-based tests, such as the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) score, have a practical advantage as first-line tests due to their wider availability and lower cost. We previously identified matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) as a serum biomarker of histological advanced fibrosis in a mixed-etiology patient cohort. In this study we aimed to determine the association between MMP7 and fibrosis, assessed by transient elastography, in patients with NAFLD. Serum MMP7 levels were measured in a cohort of 228 patients with NAFLD. Associations between MMP7, liver stiffness measurement (LSM), ELF score and clinical parameters were determined using logistic regression modelling. Serum MMP7 was associated with clinically significant fibrosis (LSM ≥ 8.2), independent of age, gender, BMI and diabetes. The addition of MMP7 significantly improved the diagnostic performance of the ELF test, particularly in patients over the age of 60. Combinations of serum biomarkers have the potential to improve the sensitivity and specificity of detection of advanced fibrosis in at-risk patients with NAFLD. We have demonstrated that serum MMP7 is independently associated with clinically significant fibrosis and improves the diagnostic performance of currently available tests in older patients.
IOX1 activity as sepsis therapy and an antibiotic against multidrug-resistant bacteria
Authors: Lee Su Jin , You Jueng Soo , Gharbi Amal , Kim Yong Joo , Lee Mi Suk , Kim Dong Hwan , Lee Keun Woo , Jung In Duk , Park Yeong Min
Published: February 2021

Sepsis is caused by organ dysfunction initiated by an unrestrained host immune response to infection. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has rapidly increased in the last decades and has stimulated a firm research platform to combat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria that cannot be eradicated with conventional antibiotics. Strategies like epigenetic regulators such as lysine demethylase (Kdm) has received attention as a new target. Thus, we sought to investigate the epigenetic mechanisms in sepsis pathophysiology with the aim of discovering new concepts for treatment. A transcriptome analysis of dendritic cells during their inflammatory state identified Kdm as a critical molecule in sepsis regulation. Next, 8-hydroxyquinoline-5-carboxylic acid (IOX1) ability to control endotoxemia induced by Lipopolysaccharide and bacterial sepsis was demonstrated. IOX1 has been shown to regulate endotoxemia and sepsis caused by Escherichia coli and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and has also contributed to the suppression of multidrug-resistant bacterial growth through the inhibition of DNA Gyrase. These findings show that IOX1 could be a component agent against bacterial sepsis by functioning as a broad-spectrum antibiotic with dual effects.
Low birth weight as a potential risk factor for severe COVID-19 in adults
Authors: Crispi Fàtima , Crovetto Francesca , Larroya Marta , Camacho Marta , Tortajada Marta , Sibila Oriol , Badia Joan Ramon , López Marta , Vellvé Kilian , Garcia Ferran , Trilla Antoni , Faner Rosa , Blanco Isabel , Borràs Roger , Agustí Alvar , Gratacós Eduard
Published: February 2021

The identification of factors predisposing to severe COVID-19 in young adults remains partially characterized. Low birth weight (LBW) alters cardiovascular and lung development and predisposes to adult disease. We hypothesized that LBW is a risk factor for severe COVID-19 in non-elderly subjects. We analyzed a prospective cohort of 397 patients (18–70 years) with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection attended in a tertiary hospital, where 15% required admission to Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Perinatal and current potentially predictive variables were obtained from all patients and LBW was defined as birth weight ≤ 2.500 g. Age (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.04 [1–1.07], P = 0.012), male sex (aOR 3.39 [1.72–6.67], P < 0.001), hypertension (aOR 3.37 [1.69–6.72], P = 0.001), and LBW (aOR 3.61 [1.55–8.43], P = 0.003) independently predicted admission to ICU. The area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve (AUC) of this model was 0.79 [95% CI, 0.74–0.85], with positive and negative predictive values of 29.1% and 97.6% respectively. Results were reproduced in an independent cohort, from a web-based survey in 1822 subjects who self-reported laboratory-positive SARS-CoV-2 infection, where 46 patients (2.5%) needed ICU admission (AUC 0.74 [95% CI 0.68–0.81]). LBW seems to be an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 in non-elderly adults and might improve the performance of risk stratification algorithms.
Differentiation of recurrent glioblastoma from radiation necrosis using diffusion radiomics with machine learning model development and external validation
Authors: Park Yae Won , Choi Dongmin , Park Ji Eun , Ahn Sung Soo , Kim Hwiyoung , Chang Jong Hee , Kim Se Hoon , Kim Ho Sung , Lee Seung-Koo
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to establish a high-performing radiomics strategy with machine learning from conventional and diffusion MRI to differentiate recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) from radiation necrosis (RN) after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) or radiotherapy. Eighty-six patients with GBM were enrolled in the training set after they underwent CCRT or radiotherapy and presented with new or enlarging contrast enhancement within the radiation field on follow-up MRI. A diagnosis was established either pathologically or clinicoradiologically (63 recurrent GBM and 23 RN). Another 41 patients (23 recurrent GBM and 18 RN) from a different institution were enrolled in the test set. Conventional MRI sequences (T2-weighted and postcontrast T1-weighted images) and ADC were analyzed to extract 263 radiomic features. After feature selection, various machine learning models with oversampling methods were trained with combinations of MRI sequences and subsequently validated in the test set. In the independent test set, the model using ADC sequence showed the best diagnostic performance, with an AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity of 0.80, 78%, 66.7%, and 87%, respectively. In conclusion, the radiomics models models using other MRI sequences showed AUCs ranging from 0.65 to 0.66 in the test set. The diffusion radiomics may be helpful in differentiating recurrent GBM from RN.

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Iron accumulation in the oculomotor nerve of the progressive supranuclear palsy brain
Authors: Lee Hansol , Lee Myung Jun , Kim Eun-Joo , Huh Gi Yeong , Lee Jae-Hyeok , Cho HyungJoon
Published: February 2021

Abnormal iron accumulation around the substantia nigra (SN) is a diagnostic indicator of Parkinsonism. This study aimed to identify iron-related microarchitectural changes around the SN of brains with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) via postmortem validations and in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 7 T high-resolution MRI was applied to two postmortem brain tissues, from one normal brain and one PSP brain. Histopathological examinations were performed to demonstrate the molecular origin of the high-resolution postmortem MRI findings, by using ferric iron staining, myelin staining, and two-dimensional laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) imaging. In vivo iron-related MRI was performed on five healthy controls, five patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), and five patients with PSP. In the postmortem examination, excessive iron deposition along the myelinated fiber at the anterior SN and third cranial nerve (oculomotor nerve) fascicles of the PSP brain was verified by LA-ICP-MS. This region corresponded to those with high R2* values and positive susceptibility from quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), but was less sensitive in Perls’ Prussian blue staining. In in vivo susceptibility-weighted imaging, hypointense pixels were observed in the region between the SN and red nucleus (RN) in patients with PSP, but not in healthy controls and patients with PD. R2* and QSM values of such region were significantly higher in patients with PSP compared to those in healthy controls and patients with PD as well (vs. healthy control: p = 0.008; vs. PD: p = 0.008). Thus, excessive iron accumulation along the myelinated fibers at the anterior SN and oculomotor nerve fascicles may be a pathological characteristic and crucial MR biomarker in a brain with PSP.
Neonicotinoid pesticides exert metabolic effects on avian pollinators
Authors: English Simon G. , Sandoval-Herrera Natalia I. , Bishop Christine A. , Cartwright Melissa , Maisonneuve France , Elliott John E. , Welch Kenneth C.
Published: February 2021

Neonicotinoids are neurotoxic systemic insecticides applied extensively worldwide. The impacts of common neonicotinoids like imidacloprid on non-target invertebrate pollinators have been widely studied, however effects on vertebrate pollinators have received little attention. Here, we describe the first study evaluating the effects of short-term (3 d) exposure to a range of environmentally relevant concentrations ($${0.2}\,\upmu \hbox {g g}^{-1}$$

0.2

μ
g

g

-
1

to $${2.5}\,\upmu \hbox {g g}^{-1}\cdot$$

2.5

μ
g

g

-
1

·

Body Weight) of imidacloprid on wild-caught ruby-throated hummingbirds. Within 2 h of exposure, hummingbirds exhibited a significant depression in energy expenditure (up to $$25\% \pm 11\%$$

25
%
±
11
%

). We did not observe significant effects on foraging behaviour measured in the subsequent 2 h to 4 h, although the effect size estimate was large (0.29). We also analyzed tissues collected 24 h after the final dose and did not observe significant effects on immune response or cholinesterase activity, although this may be related to our small sample size. We determined that hummingbirds excrete imidacloprid quickly (elimination half-life of $$2.1\hbox { h} \pm 0.1\hbox { h}$$

2.1

h
±
0.1

h

) relative to other bird species. Hummingbirds have high energetic demands and store relatively little energy, especially during migration and breeding seasons. Therefore, changes in their metabolism following exposures to imidacloprid observed herein could bear important survivorship consequences for hummingbirds.
Abnormal cranium development in children and adolescents affected by syndromes or diseases associated with neurodysfunction
Authors: Guzik Agnieszka , Perenc Lidia , Drużbicki Mariusz , Podgórska-Bednarz Justyna
Published: February 2021

Microcephaly and macrocephaly can be considered both cranial growth defects and clinical symptoms. There are two assessment criteria: one applied in dysmorphology and another conventionally used in clinical practice. The determination of which definition or under which paradigm the terminology should be applied can vary on a daily basis and from case to case as necessity dictates, as can defining the relationship between microcephaly or macrocephaly and syndromes or diseases associated with neurodysfunction. Thus, there is a need for standardization of the definition of microcephaly and macrocephaly. This study was designed to investigate associations between abnormal cranial development (head size) and diseases or syndromes linked to neurodysfunction based on essential data collected upon admission of patients to the Neurological Rehabilitation Ward for Children and Adolescents in Poland. The retrospective analysis involved 327 children and adolescents with medical conditions associated with neurodysfunction. Two assessment criteria were applied to identify subgroups of patients with microcephaly, normal head size, and macrocephaly: one system commonly used in clinical practice and another applied in dysmorphology. Based on the results, children and adolescents with syndromes or diseases associated with neurodysfunction present abnormal cranial development (head size), and microcephaly rarely co-occurs with neuromuscular disease. Macrocephaly frequently co-occurs with neural tube defects or neuromuscular diseases and rarely with cerebral palsy (p < 0.05); microcephaly frequently co-occurs with epilepsy and hypothyroidism (p < 0.001). Traditional classification facilitates the identification of a greater number of relationships and is therefore recommended for use in daily practice. There is a need to standardize the definition of microcephaly and macrocephaly and to include them in ‘Human Phenotype Ontology’ terms.
The role of dislocation-solute interactions on the creep behaviour of binary Mg–RE alloys
Authors: Li Jing , Wu Jialin , Jin Li , Celikin Mert , Wang Fenghua , Dong Shuai , Dong Jie
Published: February 2021

The effect of dislocation-RE atoms interactions on the creep behaviour has been studied via creep testing and HAADF-STEM analysis of two extruded alloys; Mg–0.5Ce and Mg–2Gd (wt%). Almost no Ce atoms are detected in the Mg matrix due to the low solid solubility and faster diffusion rate in as-extruded condition. However, Gd solute segregations are observed along dislocations and hexagonal dislocation patterns. Such segregations can not only pin the dislocation motion and enhance the creep strengthening via dislocation patterns, but also lead to dynamic precipitation. Thus, combing with the stress exponent values, the transition of creep mechanism between Mg–0.5Ce alloys and Mg–2Gd alloys has been found and dislocation-Gd atoms interactions are determined to be the main factor for superior creep resistance of Mg–2Gd alloys.
Organization and phylogenetic relationships of the mitochondrial genomes of Speiredonia retorta and other lepidopteran insects
Authors: Sun Yu , Huang Hua , Liu Yudong , Liu Shanshan , Xia Jun , Zhang Kai , Geng Jian
Published: February 2021

In this study, we analyzed the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Speiredonia retorta, which is a pest and a member of the Lepidoptera order. In total, the S. retorta mitogenome was found to contain 15,652 base pairs encoding 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs, as well as an adenine (A) + thymine (T)-rich region. These findings were consistent with the mitogenome composition of other lepidopterans, as we identified all 13 PCGs beginning at ATN codons. We also found that 11 PCGs terminated with canonical stop codons, whereas cox2 and nad4 exhibited incomplete termination codons. By analyzing the mitogenome of S. retorta using Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) models, we were able to further confirm that this species is a member of the Erebidae family.
Climate change vulnerability assessment of the main marine commercial fish and invertebrates of Portugal
Authors: Bueno-Pardo Juan , Nobre Daniela , Monteiro João N. , Sousa Pedro M. , Costa Eudriano F. S. , Baptista Vânia , Ovelheiro Andreia , Vieira Vasco M. N. C. S. , Chícharo Luís , Gaspar Miguel , Erzini Karim , Kay Susan , Queiroga Henrique , Teodósio Maria A. , Leitão Francisco
Published: February 2021

This is the first attempt to apply an expert-based ecological vulnerability assessment of the effects of climate change on the main marine resources of Portugal. The vulnerability, exposure, sensitivity, adaptive capacity, and expected directional effects of 74 species of fish and invertebrates of commercial interest is estimated based on criteria related to their life-history and level of conservation or exploitation. This analysis is performed separately for three regions of Portugal and two scenarios of climate change (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5). To do that, the fourth assessment report IPCC framework for vulnerability assessments was coupled to the outputs of a physical-biogeochemical model allowing to weight the exposure of the species by the expected variability of the environmental variables in the future. The highest vulnerabilities were found for some migratory and elasmobranch species, although overall vulnerability scores were low probably due to the high adaptive capacity of species from temperate ecosystems. Among regions, the highest average vulnerability was estimated for the species in the Central region while higher vulnerabilities were identified under climate change scenario RCP 8.5 in the three regions, due to higher expected climatic variability. This work establishes the basis for the assessment of the vulnerability of the human activities relying on marine resources in the context of climate change.
Primer evaluation and development of a droplet digital PCR protocol targeting amoA genes for the quantification of Comammox in lakes
Authors: Harringer Manuel , Alfreider Albin
Published: February 2021

To date, little is known about the ecological significance of Comammox (COMplete AMMonia OXidizers) Nitrospira in the water column of freshwater lakes. Water samples collected along depth profiles were used to investigate the distribution of Comammox in 13 lakes characterized by a wide range of physicochemical properties. Several published primers, which target the α-subunit of the ammonia monooxygenase, generated non-specific PCR products or did not amplify target genes from lake water and other habitats. Therefore, a new primer set has been designed for specific detection of Comammox in lakes. The high specificity of the PCR assay was confirmed by sequencing analysis. Quantification of Comammox amoA genes in lake water samples based on droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) revealed very low abundances (not exceeding 85 amoA copies ml−1), which suggest that Comammox is of minor importance for the nitrification process in the water column of the study sites. Surprisingly, samples taken from the sediment/water-interface along an oxygen gradient in dimictic Piburger See showed Comammox abundances three to four magnitudes higher than in the pelagic realm of the lake, which indicates a preference of Comammox to a particle-attached lifestyle.
RasGRP2 inhibits glyceraldehyde-derived toxic advanced glycation end-products from inducing permeability in vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Takino Jun-ichi , Sato Takuma , Kanetaka Takumi , Okihara Kasumi , Nagamine Kentaro , Takeuchi Masayoshi , Hori Takamitsu
Published: February 2021

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are formed by the non-enzymatic reaction of sugars and proteins. Among the AGEs, glyceraldehyde-derived toxic AGEs (TAGE) are associated with various diseases, including diabetic complications such as diabetic retinopathy (DR). The risk of developing DR is strongly associated with poor glycemic control, which causes AGE accumulation and increases AGE-induced vascular permeability. We previously reported that Ras guanyl nucleotide releasing protein 2 (RasGRP2), which activates small G proteins, may play an essential role in the cell response to toxicity when exposed to various factors. However, it is not known whether RasGRP2 prevents the adverse effects of TAGE in vascular endothelial cells. This study observed that TAGE enhanced vascular permeability by disrupting adherens junctions and tight junctions via complex signaling, such as ROS and non-ROS pathways. In particular, RasGRP2 protected adherens junction disruption, thereby suppressing vascular hyper-permeability. These results indicate that RasGRP2 is an essential protective factor of vascular permeability and may help develop novel therapeutic strategies for AGE-induced DR.
Differential DNA methylation in recovery from shift work disorder
Authors: Lahtinen Alexandra , Häkkinen Antti , Puttonen Sampsa , Vanttola Päivi , Viitasalo Katriina , Porkka-Heiskanen Tarja , Härmä Mikko , Paunio Tiina
Published: February 2021

The human DNA methylome is responsive to our environment, but its dynamics remain underexplored. We investigated the temporal changes to DNA methylation (DNAme) in relation to recovery from a shift work disorder (SWD) by performing a paired epigenome-wide analysis in an occupational cohort of 32 shift workers (25 men, age = 43.8 ± 8.8 years, 21 SWD cases). We found that the effect of vacation on DNAme was more prominent in the SWD-group as compared to controls, with respect to the amount of significantly differentially methylated positions (DMPs; Punadj < 0.05) 6.5 vs 3.7%, respectively. The vast majority (78%) of these DMPs were hypomethylated in SWD but not in controls (27%) during the work period. The Gene Ontology Cellular component “NMDA glutamate receptor” (PFDR < 0.05) was identified in a pathway analysis of the top 30 genes in SWD. In-depth pathway analyses revealed that the Reactome pathway “CREB phosphorylation through the activation of CaMKII” might underlie the recovery. Furthermore, three DMPs from this pathway, corresponding to GRIN2C, CREB1, and CAMK2B, correlated with the degree of recovery (Punadj < 0.05). Our findings provide evidence for the dynamic nature of DNAme in relation to the recovery process from a circadian disorder, with biological relevance of the emerging pathways.
The development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is subjected to breeder dependent variation in guinea pigs
Authors: Ipsen D. H. , Agerskov R. H. , Klaebel J. H. , Lykkesfeldt J. , Tveden-Nyborg Pernille
Published: February 2021

Variability in disease development due to differences in strains and breeders constitutes a substantial challenge in preclinical research. However, the impact of the breeder on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is not yet fully elucidated. This retrospective study investigates NASH development in guinea pigs from Charles River or Envigo fed a high fat diet (20% fat, 15% sucrose, 0.35% cholesterol) for 16 or 24/25 weeks. Charles River animals displayed more severe NASH, with higher steatosis (p < 0.05 at week 16), inflammation (p < 0.05 at both week), fibrosis (p < 0.05 at week 16) and disease activity (p < 0.05 at both weeks). Accordingly, alanine and aspartate aminotransferase were increased at week 24/25 (p < 0.01). Hepatic expression of inflammatory (Ccl2, Cxcl8) and fibrotic (Pdgf, Serpine1, Col1a1) genes was also increased (p < 0.05). Differences were observed in healthy chow (4% fat, 0% sucrose, 0% cholesterol) fed animals: Envigo animals displayed higher relative liver weights (p < 0.01 at both weeks), liver cholesterol (p < 0.0001 at week 24/25) and aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.05 at week 16), but lower levels of alkaline phosphatase (p < 0.0001 at week 24/25). These findings accentuates the importance of the breeder and its effect on NASH development and severity. Consequently, this may affect reproducibility, study comparison and limit the potential of developing novel therapies.
Publisher Correction: An Information Theory-Inspired Strategy for Design of Re-programmable Encrypted Graphene-based Coding Metasurfaces at Terahertz Frequencies
Authors: Momeni Ali , Rouhi Kasra , Rajabalipanah Hamid , Abdolali Ali
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Prediction of mortality in severe acute malnutrition in hospitalized children by faecal volatile organic compound analysis: proof of concept
Authors: van den Brink Deborah A. , de Meij Tim , Brals Daniella , Bandsma Robert H. J. , Thitiri Johnstone , Ngari Moses , Mwalekwa Laura , de Boer Nanne K. H. , Wicaksono Alfian , Covington James A. , van Rheenen Patrick F. , Voskuijl Wieger P.
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: A comparative investigation of normal and inverted exchange bias effect for magnetic fluid hyperthermia applications
Authors: Tsopoe S. P. , Borgohain C. , Fopase Rushikesh , Pandey Lalit M. , Borah J. P.
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Prediction of genome-wide effects of single nucleotide variants on transcription factor binding
Authors: Carrasco Pro Sebastian , Bulekova Katia , Gregor Brian , Labadorf Adam , Fuxman Bass Juan Ignacio
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate to ethylene glycol over Cu/KIT-6 catalysts
Authors: Yu Xinbin , Burkholder Michael , Karakalos Stavros G. , Tate Gregory L. , Monnier John R. , Gupton B. Frank , Williams Christopher T.
Published: February 2021

Copper supported on KIT-6 mesoporous silica was prepared via ammonia evaporation (AE) method and applied for the catalytic hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate (DMO) to ethylene glycol (EG).
Co-luminescence in a zero-dimensional organic–inorganic hybrid antimony halide with multiple coordination units
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Zhuan , Jin Jian-Ce , Gong Liao-Kuo , Lin Yang-Peng , Du Ke-Zhao , Huang Xiao-Ying
Published: February 2021

This paper presents, the first example of dual-emission Sb(iii)-based hybrids containing two types of mononuclear chloroantimonate units.
Natural organic matter surface coverage as a predictor of heteroaggregation between nanoparticles and colloids
Authors: Oney Dylan M. , Nason Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2021

The rate of heteroaggregation between branched polyethylenimine stabilized gold nanoparticles and a model colloid (glass beads) was correlated with the degree to which the nanoparticles were coated by natural organic matter.
Practical microcircuits for handheld acoustofluidics
Authors: Huang An , Connacher William , Stambaugh Mark , Zhang Naiqing , Zhang Shuai , Mei Jiyang , Jain Aditi , Alluri Sravya , Leung Vincent , Rajapaksa Anushi E , Friend James
Published: February 2021

Practical acoustofluidics for lab-on-a-chip applications is now enabled by battery-powered handheld circuits.
Metal-free [3 + 2 + 1] annulation of allylic alcohols, ketones, and ammonium acetate: radical-involving synthesis of 2,3-diarylpyridine derivatives
Authors: Ge Danhua , Luo Xin-Long , Tang Xi , Pang Chao-Bin , Wang Xin , Chu Xue-Qiang
Published: February 2021

A three-component [3 + 2 + 1] annulation for the synthesis of biologically and pharmaceutically active 2,3-diarylpyridine derivatives by using a series of allylic alcohols, ketones, and ammonium acetate as substrates has been developed.
Data augmentation and transfer learning strategies for reaction prediction in low chemical data regimes
Authors: Zhang Yun , Wang Ling , Wang Xinqiao , Zhang Chengyun , Ge Jiamin , Tang Jing , Su An , Duan Hongliang
Published: February 2021

An effective and rapid deep learning method to predict chemical reactions contributes to the research and development of organic chemistry and drug discovery.
Phosphonated mesoporous silica nanoparticles bearing ruthenium complexes used as molecular probes for tracking oxygen levels in cells and tissues
Authors: Umehara Yui , Kimura Yu , Kleitz Freddy , Nishihara Tatsuya , Kondo Teruyuki , Tanabe Kazuhito
Published: February 2021

Phosphonated mesoporous silica nanoparticles bearing ruthenium complexes in their pores were prepared as biocompatible molecular probes to visualize oxygen status in cells and tissues.
Bridging-arylene effects on spectroscopic and photophysical properties of arylborane–dipyrrinato zinc(ii) complexes
Authors: Takaki Koyo , Sakuda Eri , Ito Akitaka , Horiuchi Shinnosuke , Arikawa Yasuhiro , Umakoshi Keisuke
Published: February 2021

Electronic interactions between a bis(dipyrrinato)zinc(ii) and arylborane moieties were successfully tuned by a structure of bridging arylene groups. The excited state of a phenylene bridged complex was best characterized by the synergistic ππ*/ILCT.
Boosting the hydrogen evolution reaction activity of Ru in alkaline and neutral media by accelerating water dissociation
Authors: Tang Lin , Yu Junjie , Zhang Yang , Tang Zaozao , Qin Yong
Published: February 2021

The electrocatalytic activity of Ru in non-acidic media for hydrogen evolution reaction can be greatly boosted by Cr2O3 and N-doped graphene.
Substitutional 4d transition metal doping in atomically thin lead
Authors: Hashemi Daniel , Iizuka Hideo
Published: February 2021

To study the potential of plumbene as a dilute magnetic semiconductor, we computationally investigate the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of 4d transition metal (TM) doped plumbene using density functional theory (DFT).
Microstructure design of polypropylene/expandable graphite flame retardant composites toughened by the polyolefin elastomer for enhancing its mechanical properties
Authors: Li Ruilong , Wang Na , Bai Zhuyu , Chen Shaopeng , Guo Jianbing , Chen Xiaolang
Published: February 2021

The enhanced toughness of flame-retardant polymer composites is still a big challenge due to the deterioration of their mechanical properties.
Single nucleotide detection using bilayer MoS2 nanopores with high efficiency
Authors: Sen Payel , Gupta Manisha
Published: February 2021

Bilayer MoS2 nanopores are suitable for fast and high-efficiency single nucleotide detection and DNA sequencing due to fast analyte capture and improved dwell time.
A Co-MOF-derived Co9S8@NS-C electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Yun-Wu , Wu Qian , Ma Rui-Cong , Sun Xiao-Qi , Li Dan-Dan , Du Hong-Mei , Ma Hui-Yan , Li Da-Cheng , Wang Su-Na , Dou Jian-Min
Published: February 2021

A porous Co9S8@NS-C-900 composite was fabricated by the pyrolysis of crystal Co-MOF involving thiourea. The composite exhibits efficient electrocatalytic activities and long-term durabilities towards HER in alkaline electrolytes.
Functional sponge-based triboelectric nanogenerators with energy harvesting, oil–water separating and multi-mode sensing performance
Authors: Liu Shuai , Yuan Fang , Sang Min , Zhou Jianyu , Zhang Junshuo , Wang Sheng , Li Jinsong , Xuan Shouhu , Gong Xinglong
Published: February 2021

A multi-functional triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is developed, which enables to sense mechanical/magnetic stimuli in the self-powered manner, and presents favorable magneto-driven and target recognization performance for spilled oil treatment.
A class of water-soluble Fe(iii) coordination complexes as T1-weighted MRI contrast agents
Authors: Wang Run , An Lu , He Jing , Li Mengmeng , Jiao Jingjing , Yang Shiping
Published: February 2021

Water-soluble Fe(iii) coordination complexes were fabricated as T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents in vivo.
Process intensification using immobilized enzymes for the development of white biotechnology
Authors: Salvi Harshada M. , Yadav Ganapati D.
Published: February 2021

Process intensification of biocatalysed reactions using different techniques such as microwaves, ultrasound, hydrodynamic cavitation, ionic liquids, microreactors and flow chemistry in various industries is critically analysed and future directions provided.
Recent advances in nanocellulose processing, functionalization and applications: a review
Authors: Thakur Vaishali , Guleria Ashish , Kumar Sanjay , Sharma Shikha , Singh Kulvinder
Published: February 2021

Graphical presentation form synthesis to application of nanocellulose.
Mineral plastic foams
Authors: Menold Philipp , Cölfen Helmut , Stubenrauch Cosima
Published: February 2021

Templating route for the synthesis of mechanically stable, recyclable, cheap, non-flammable mineral plastic foams for insulation, especially for heat insulation. Synthesis of new material in aqueous solution and at ambient conditions.
Correction: Mirror twin boundaries in MoSe2 monolayers as one dimensional nanotemplates for selective water adsorption
Authors: Li Jingfeng , Joseph Thomas , Ghorbani-Asl Mahdi , Kolekar Sadhu , Krasheninnikov Arkady V. , Batzill Matthias
Published: February 2021

Correction for ‘Mirror twin boundaries in MoSe2 monolayers as one dimensional nanotemplates for selective water adsorption’ by Jingfeng Li et al., Nanoscale, 2021, 13, 1038–1047, DOI: 10.1039/D0NR08345C.
Vlasoulides A and B, a pair of neuroprotective C32 dimeric sesquiterpenes with a hexacyclic 5/7/5/5/(5)/7 carbon skeleton from the roots of Vladimiria souliei
Authors: Wu Zhi-li , Wang Qun , Fu Lu , Su Ri-xin , Sun Ze-shi , Li Hui-liang
Published: February 2021

Vlasoulides A and B (1 and 2), a pair of epimeric C32 sesquiterpene lactone dimers, featuring a 5/7/5/5/(5)/7 ring system were isolated from the roots of Vladimiria souliei.
Models of viral capsid symmetry as a driver of discovery in virology and nanotechnology
Authors: Dechant Pierre-Philippe , Twarock Reidun
Published: February 2021

Viruses are prominent examples of symmetry in biology. A better understanding of symmetry and symmetry breaking in virus structure via mathematical modelling opens up novel perspectives on how viruses form, evolve and infect their hosts. In particular, mathematical models of viral symmetry pave the way to novel forms of antiviral therapy and the exploitation of viral protein containers in bio-nanotechnology.
ALMA/NICER observations of GRS 1915+105 indicate a return to a hard state
Authors: Koljonen K. I. I. , Hovatta T.
Published: February 2021

Context. GRS 1915+105 is a transient black hole X-ray binary consistently emitting 10–100% of the Eddington luminosity in the X-ray band over the last three decades until mid-2018 when the source luminosity suddenly decreased by an order of magnitude. This phase was followed by a change to a state with even lower average X-ray fluxes never seen before during the outburst but presenting renewed flaring activity at different wavelengths, albeit with mean fluxes still in decline.

Aims. GRS 1915+105 has the longest orbital period known among low-mass X-ray binaries, the largest accretion disk size, and therefore the largest mass supply for accretion. The high inclination of the disk allows the study of geometrical effects of the accretion flow such as changes in the height-to-radius ratio or the effect of accretion disk winds on the intrinsic emission that is expected during the outburst decay. In addition, the transient jet is expected to change to a compact, self-absorbed, steady jet.

Methods. We conducted two full polarization Atacama Large Millimeter Array observations to study the jet properties during the outburst decay by analyzing the spectral, polarization, and intra-epoch variability for both observation epochs. In addition, we analyzed almost daily Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer pointing observations, modeling X-ray power spectral densities, spectral energy distributions, and light curves with a physically motivated model to follow the changing accretion disk properties throughout the outburst decay and relating them to the jet emission.

Results. We show that the X-ray and millimeter (mm) spectral, timing, and polarization properties are consistent with those of a typical decaying X-ray binary outburst and that GRS 1915+105 has descended into the low-luminosity hard X-ray state. The jet emission in the mm is consistent with a compact, steady jet with ∼1% linear polarization, and the magnetic field is likely aligned with the jet position angle. Relating the mm emission to the X-ray emission reveals that the source has changed from a higher radio/X-ray correlation index to a lower one; Lradio ∝ LX0.6.
The Impact of New Technology on China-Japan Economic Development Research
Authors: Xi Jing
Published: February 2021

After the Second World War, Japan played a leading role in economic recovery and became the world’s second largest economic power. But in 1985, the Japanese entered the bubble economy. After the bubble burst in the early 1990s, Japan’s economy collapsed and fell into a “lost era.” Since then, Japan has not fully recovered. The lack of financial supervision bears an inescapable responsibility for the formation, development and bursting of Japan’s bubble economy. Japan should probably take comprehensive deepening reforms, especially supply-side structural reforms, as the main tasks of the current and next phases. China and Japan have a long history of economic cooperation and innovation cooperation with a good foundation. At present, some important changes have taken place in the global economic and technological conditions, which have had a trending influence on the economic innovation cooperation between China and Japan. The new technology revolution has greatly expanded the field of Sino-Japanese cooperation and innovated the cooperation method, and the prospect of win-win cooperation between the two sides will be even broader.
The Research of Multinational Enterprises Transnational Management
Authors: Li Chong
Published: February 2021

With the development of global business, MNEs are always sinking into various pressures which are related to economic factors, social factors and informational factors. This situation making MNEs’ strategies is supposed to achieve those requirements that including global market integration, national responsiveness, worldwide learning. There are four important strategies which are widely used in MNEs internationalization process that including multinational strategy, global strategy, international strategy, and transnational strategy. This essay will introduce pursuing transnational strategy and some difficulties existing in this process. Furthermore, an example of an entrepreneurial subsidiary will be chosen to explore and conduct further research.
How developing countries should choose their financial regulatory framework? Empirical Analysis Based on Data from 62 Countries
Authors: Zhong Peng , Wu Tao , Guo Shuaixin
Published: February 2021

This paper adopts the orderly logit model which has achieved good results in the research of financial supervision organization structure in recent years, selects 62 representative countries as samples, estimates and analyzes the factors that affect the financial supervision organization structure change, and carries on the empirical test to the constructed model, thus provides the reference basis for developing countries to select their own financial supervision organization structure.
Research on the Effectiveness of China’s A-share Main Board Market
Authors: Li Yekai
Published: February 2021

The effectiveness of the stock market is an important indicator to measure the efficiency of capital allocation in the secondary financial market, and is of great significance to the operation of the national economy. Whether the Mainland China’s stock market is weakly effective has always been controversial. This article uses the measurement method to conduct empirical data research on the five randomly selected stocks and the Shanghai Composite Index, analyzes the conclusions and analyzes the underlying reasons that lead to the low effectiveness of the Mainland China stock market.
The relationship between regional economy and financial intermediation agglomeration from the perspective of Granger causality Empirical analysis from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA)
Authors: Guo Dezhi , Zhou Kexin
Published: February 2021

This paper uses the time series data from 2007 to 2017 to analyze the financial intermediation agglomeration of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Marco Greater Bay Area through the empirical method of Granger causality test to find the relationship between regional economic growth. The empirical results show that the financial intermediation in the GBA has a prominent clustering effect, which has a strong pulling effect on the regional economic growth of the GBA. However, the development of the real economy in the GBA has not played a substantial role in supporting the development of the financial intermediation.
Analysis of asset risk and household Financial Asset Allocation structure—Empirical analysis from a nonlinear model
Authors: Huang Zhanbing , Lu Yu
Published: February 2021

Chinese households now have a good understanding of finance and their asset allocation choices are increasingly skewed towards financial products. At present, most domestic and foreign researches on the structure and choice of household asset allocation mainly analyze the influence of residents’ characteristics or financial literacy on household asset allocation, while few researches on the internal relationship between household risk, asset structure and allocation choice. Based on CHFS data and the theory of asset investment behavior, this paper systematically analyzes and risk assets and family financial asset allocation structure of mutual influence and role, an empirical analysis of the influencing factors of residents in our country family financial asset allocation structure by using Probit model and Tobit model, pay attention to risk assets, family income and other factors, a deeper understanding of family financial asset investment circumstances.
The Dynamic Change of High Quality Development of Equipment Manufacturing Industry In Liaoning Province In The New Era
Authors: Fan Xiaonan , Chi Bo , Sun Xiaocheng
Published: February 2021

Dynamic change is the starting point of realizing the high quality development of equipment manufacturing industry in Liaoning Province. First of all, this achievement analyzes the development status of equipment manufacturing industry in Liaoning Province; second, it establishes an index system to measure the high-quality development level of equipment manufacturing industry, uses entropy weight method to comprehensively evaluate the high-quality development level of equipment manufacturing industry in Liaoning Province; third, it constructs high-quality equipment manufacturing industry. The demand side and supply side models of the source of power are developed, and the trend of power transformation of high-quality development of equipment manufacturing industry is summarized. Finally, policy suggestions are put forward to promote the power transformation of high-quality development of equipment manufacturing industry in Liaoning Province.
Research on the Relationship Between Corporate Governance Performance and Financing Cost Under the Background of ESG Theory
Authors: Wang Chunhong , Zhao Minru , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: February 2021

Since the reform and opening up, China’s economy has developed rapidly, the market economy is booming, and the financing demand of enterprises is also increasing year by year. As a new development concept, environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) theory has become an important evaluation index for the future development of enterprises. How to achieve sustainable development has become a necessary challenge for enterprise financing. Based on ESG theory, this paper discusses the influence of corporate governance performance on financing cost, and studies the relationship between corporate governance performance and financing cost. Through the empirical analysis, this paper can draw a conclusion that good corporate governance performance can effectively reduce the financing cost. According to this conclusion, this paper puts forward some suggestions on corporate governance based on ESG rating system.