bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Vulnerability to the SARS‐CoV‐2 Virus Infection. A County‐Level Geographical‐Methodological Approach in Romania
Authors: Mitrică Bianca , Mocanu Irena , Grigorescu Ines , Dumitraşcu Monica , Pistol Adriana , Damian Nicoleta , Şerban Paul‐Răzvan
Published: October 2021

The assessment and identification of risk/vulnerable groups and risk factors are vital elements that can help quantify the pandemic potential of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus in order to plan prevention and treatment measures. The aim of the study is to identify a methodological approach of population vulnerability to the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus infection. The study identifies reliable data sources and sets up a unitary database with statistical variables, quantitative and qualitative indicators with potential for being updated and improved. The analysis takes into account a number of variables/indicators (e.g., elderly persons, population without physician care, number of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases, number of people suffering from respiratory diseases, dwellings not connected to the public water supply network, no. of medical staff, number of COVID‐19 hospitals, PCR testing laboratories, number of vaccinated persons) grouped into the key vulnerability components: exposure, sensitivity, coping capacity and adaptive capacity. They allowed the computation of the final Index of Population Vulnerability to the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus infection and the mapping of different dimensions of vulnerability. The study was performed using the statistical data available at NUTS3/County level provided by different institutions (e.g., the Ministry of Health, the National Institute of Public Health, the Strategic Communication Group, and the National Institute of Statistics). The mapping of the different degrees of vulnerability could solve a problem of visibility for possible areas with vulnerable population, but also a problem of communication between different institutional health and administrative levels, as well as between all of them and the local communities and/or professionals.
Coseismic and Early Postseismic Deformation Due to the 2021 M7.4 Maduo (China) Earthquake
Authors: Jin Zeyu , Fialko Yuri
Published: October 2021

The 2021 Maduo earthquake ruptured a 150 km‐long left‐lateral fault in the northeast Tibet. We used Synthetic Aperture Radar data collected by the Sentinel‐1A/B satellites within days of the earthquake to derive a finite fault model and investigate the details of slip distribution with depth. We generated coseismic interferograms and pixel offsets from different look directions corresponding to the ascending and descending satellite orbits. At the eastern end the rupture bifurcated into two sub‐parallel strands, with larger slip on the northern strand. Inversions of coseismic displacements show maximum slip to the east of the epicenter. The averaged coseismic slip has a peak at depth of 3–4 km, similar to slip distributions of a number of shallow strike‐slip earthquakes. Postseismic observations over several weeks following the Maduo earthquake reveal surface slip with amplitude up to 0.1 m that at least partially eliminated the coseismic slip deficit in the uppermost crust.
Inconsistent Variations Between the Northern and Southern North Pacific Storm Track
Authors: Yang Minghao , Luo Dehai , Li Chongyin , Li Xin , Yao Yao , Zhao Jingjing , Chen Xiong
Published: October 2021

In this study, the North Pacific storm track (PST) is divided into the northern PST (NPST) and southern PST (SPST). The consistencies of the interannual‐to‐interdecadal and climatological variations between the NPST and SPST are investigated. On an interannual‐to‐interdecadal scale, the PST‐related meridional dipole of the upper‐level zonal wind anomalies is largely associated with the NPST. Only the NPST is significantly associated with the North Pacific atmospheric blocking and the Pacific‐North American teleconnection pattern. The NPST‐related sea surface temperature anomalies are confined to the North Pacific. In contrast, the SPST‐related sea surface temperature anomalies basically coincide with the Indian Ocean basin mode and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation. The climatological seasonal cycles of the NPST and SPST exhibit double‐peak and single‐peak structures, respectively, in accordance with the linear baroclinic instability theory. In general, the interannual‐to‐interdecadal and climatological variations in the NPST intensity are inconsistent with those in the SPST intensity.
Multipoint Analysis of Source Regions of EMIC Waves and Rapid Growth of Subpackets
Authors: Ojha Biswajit , Omura Yoshiharu , Singh Satyavir , Lakhina Gurbax S.
Published: October 2021

Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron (EMIC) rising tone emissions are important in understanding the nonlinear wave evolution and interaction with the energetic particles. We present observations of rising tone emissions of EMIC waves by THEMIS A, D, and E spacecraft in the outer magnetosphere. These emissions with subpacket structures in the proton band were observed during the time interval 14:20 UT to 14:30 UT on September 9, 2010. The observed waves are left‐handed polarized with wave normal angles less than . THEMIS A was closest to the equator and was in a higher L‐shell than THEMIS E and D. The smallest radial separation is 2,000 km between THEMIS E and D spacecraft. This configuration of THEMIS allows us to investigate the subpackets of rising tone EMIC waves observed simultaneously at 14:23 UT by three spacecraft. Hilbert Huang Transformation (HHT) is applied to show the variations of the instantaneous frequency and the observed wave amplitude. The direction of energy flow is determined from the analysis of the Poynting flux. There is a rapid nonlinear growth of the EMIC subpackets within one wavelength. Subpackets are dynamic in nature as their structure changes within one wave period, which is further supported by the nonlinear wave growth theory. Optimum and threshold amplitudes for the EMIC wave growth are calculated beside the nonlinear transition time (). Observed ion energies and pitch angle spectra of the ion fluxes are consistent with the energy associated with the Landau and cyclotron resonance conditions.
Damage Evolution of Onnagawa Shale by Postmortem Thresholding of X‐Ray Computed Tomography
Authors: Jayawickrama E. G. , Muto J. , Sasaki O. , Nagahama H.
Published: October 2021

Onnagawa shale samples are deformed through the brittle‐ductile transition by increasing the confining pressure. Brittle deformation is characterized by longitudinal splitting of the sample at 3% axial strain. A distributed conjugate fracture network characterizes the macroscopic deformation in the ductile field with strain hardening. The onset of transition from brittle to ductile deformation is between 4% and 5% axial strain with a single shear plane defined failure. Deformed samples are scanned in a commercially available X‐ray CT machine to investigate the sensitivity of the fracture network to the choice of threshold voxel value. The primary voxel values of the deformed rock are reversed, and their density distribution is approximated by a normal distribution to extract the voxel value density distribution that fabricated the fracture network (residual). Successive thresholding of the residual histogram shows that the generated fracture network is highly sensitive to the choice of threshold. Post peak thresholding of the residual histogram generates voxel volumes of fractures alone and consecutive thresholding shows that the obtained volume segments of the fractures can interpret possible nucleation, growth, and coalescence within the damaged zone. Results further show similarity to previous 4D tomographic strain localization investigations and damage size distributions by acoustic emission studies. Therefore, despite the postmortem nature of the investigation, the new technique opens possibilities to investigate the possible evolution of fracture properties under elevated confining pressures and in the absence of high energy synchrotron facilities.
Seasonal Predictability of Sea Ice and Bottom Temperature Across the Eastern Bering Sea Shelf
Authors: Kearney K. A. , Alexander M. , Aydin K. , Cheng W. , Hermann A. J. , Hervieux G. , Ortiz I.
Published: October 2021

Seasonal sea ice plays a key role in shaping the ecosystem dynamics of the eastern Bering Sea shelf. In particular, it leads to the formation of a characteristic pool of cold water that covers the bottom of the shelf from winter through summer; the extent of this cold pool is often used as a management index for distribution, productivity, recruitment, and survival of commercially important fish and shellfish species. Here, we quantify our ability to seasonally forecast interannual variability in Bering Sea bottom temperature and sea ice extent. Retrospective forecast simulations from two global forecast models are downscaled using a regional ocean model; the retrospective forecast simulations include 9‐month to 12‐month forecasts spanning 1982–2010. We find that dynamic forecasting can predict summer bottom temperatures across the eastern Bering Sea shelf with lead times of up to 4 months. The majority of the prediction skill derives from the persistence signal, and a persistence forecast is comparably skillful to the dynamic forecast at these lead times. However, forecast skill of sea ice advance and retreat is low when a forecast model is initialized before or during the ice season (October–February); this limits the ability of either dynamic or persistence models to predict summer bottom temperatures when initialized across the late fall to early spring months.
Vertical Distribution of Aerosols and Hazes Over Jupiter's Great Red Spot and Its Surroundings in 2016 From HST/WFC3 Imaging
Authors: Anguiano‐Arteaga Asier , Pérez‐Hoyos Santiago , Sánchez‐Lavega Agustín , Sanz‐Requena José Francisco , Irwin Patrick G. J.
Published: October 2021

In this work, we have analyzed images provided by the Hubble Space Telescope's Wide Field Camera 3 (HST/WFC3) in December 2016, with a spectral coverage from the ultraviolet to the near infrared. We have obtained the spectral reflectivity of the GRS and its surroundings, with particular emphasis on selected, dynamically interesting regions. A spectral characterization of the GRS area is performed following two different procedures: (a) in terms of Altitude/Opacity and Color Indices (AOI and CI); (b) by means of automatic spectral classification. We used the NEMESIS radiative transfer suite to retrieve the main atmospheric parameters (e.g., particle vertical and size distributions, refractive indices) that are able to explain the observed spectral reflectivity. The optimal a priori model atmosphere used for the retrievals is obtained from a grid of about 12,000 different atmospheric models, and choosing the one that best fits South Tropical Zone (STrZ) spectra and its observed limb‐darkening. We conclude that the spectral reflectivity of the GRS area is well reproduced with the following layout: (a) a stratospheric haze with its base near the 100 mbar level, with optical depths at 900 nm of the order of unity and particles with a size of 0.3 μm; (b) a more vertically extended tropospheric haze, with τ (900 nm) ∼10 down to 500 mbar and micron sized particles. Both haze layers show a stronger short wavelength absorption, and thus both act as chromophores. The altitude difference between clouds tops in the GRS and surrounding areas is ∼10 km.
Middle Miocene (∼14 Ma) and Late Miocene (∼6 Ma) Paleogeographic Boundary Conditions
Authors: He Zhilin , Zhang Zhongshi , Guo Zhengtang , Scotese Christopher R. , Deng Chenglong
Published: October 2021

During the Miocene, major global cooling occurred during two intervals: the middle Miocene (∼14–13 Ma) and the late Miocene (∼7‐6 Ma). The Antarctic Ice Sheet expanded substantially at ∼14–13 Ma, and glaciation in the Northern Hemisphere was initiated at ∼7–6 Ma. Although the causes of these two global cooling events remain unclear, paleoclimate modeling provides an important approach for investigating the mechanisms. However, paleoclimate modeling relies on paleogeographic boundary conditions, and many uncertainties remain regarding the land–sea distribution, topography, and bathymetry of the Miocene; specifically, previous published paleogeographic reconstructions for the middle and late Miocene show several discrepancies with each other. Here, we present two new sets of global topographic and bathymetric boundary conditions for the middle Miocene (∼14 Ma) and late Miocene (∼6 Ma). Our new reconstructions use a published plate kinematics model, oceanic lithospheric paleo‐ages, and oceanic sediment thicknesses and incorporate global fossil records, stratigraphy, lithofacies, paleoenvironment, and paleoelevation data. With these data, we further constrain the conditions of several important intercontinental and marginal seas surrounding Eurasia and the Arctic, the depth of major seaways in tropical latitudes and middle‐high latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere, and global paleotopography, especially that of the Tibetan Plateau and the Andes.
Column Relative Humidity and Primary Condensation Rate as Two Useful Supplements to Atmospheric River Analysis
Authors: Mo Ruping , So Rita , Brugman Melinda M. , Mooney Curtis , Liu Anthony Q. , Jakob Matthias , Castellan Armel , Vingarzan Roxanne
Published: October 2021

Landfalling atmospheric rivers (ARs) frequently trigger heavy and sometimes prolonged precipitation, especially in regions with favored orographic enhancement. The presence and strength of ARs are often described using the integrated water vapor (IWV) and the integrated vapor transport (IVT). However, the associated precipitation is not directly correlated with these two variables. Instead, the intensity of precipitation is mainly determined by the net convergence of moisture flux and the initial degree of saturation of the air column. In this study, a simple algorithm is proposed for estimating the heavy precipitation attributable to the IVT convergence. Bearing a strong resemblance to the Kuo‐Anthes parameterization scheme for cumulus convection, the proposed algorithm calculates the large‐scale primary condensation rate (PCR) as a proportion of the IVT convergence, with a reduction to account for the general moistening in the atmosphere. The amount of reduction is determined by the column relative humidity (CRH), which is defined as the ratio of IWV to its saturation counterpart. Our analysis indicates that the diagnosable PCR compares well to the forecast precipitation rate given by a numerical weather prediction model. It is also shown that the PCR in an air column with CRH 0.50 is negligibly small. The usefulness of CRH and PCR as two complements to standard AR analysis is illustrated in three case studies. The potential application of PCR to storm classification is also explored.
Solving Challenges of Assimilating Microwave Remote Sensing Signatures With a Physical Model to Estimate Snow Water Equivalent
Authors: Merkouriadi Ioanna , Lemmetyinen Juha , Liston Glen E. , Pulliainen Jouni
Published: October 2021

Global monitoring of seasonal snow water equivalent (SWE) has advanced significantly over the past decades. However, challenges remain when estimating SWE from passive and active microwave signatures, because a priori characterization of snow properties is required for SWE retrievals. Numerical experiments have shown that utilizing physical snow models to acquire snowpack characterization can potentially improve microwave‐based SWE retrievals. This study aims to identify the challenges of assimilating active and passive microwave signatures with physical snow models, and to examine solutions to those challenges. Guided by observations from a point‐based study, we designed a sensitivity experiment to quantify the effects of changes in the physically modeled SWE—and of corresponding changes to other snowpack properties—to the microwave‐based SWE retrievals. The results indicate that assimilating microwave signatures with physical snow models face some critical challenges associated with the physical relationship between SWE and snow microstructure. We demonstrate these challenges can be overcome if the microwave algorithms account for these relationships.
Diverse ‘just-right’ levels of chromosomal instability and their clinical implications in neoadjuvant treated gastric cancer
Authors: Kohlruss Meike , Krenauer Marie , Grosser Bianca , Pfarr Nicole , Jesinghaus Moritz , Slotta-Huspenina Julia , Novotny Alexander , Hapfelmeier Alexander , Schmidt Thomas , Steiger Katja , Gaida Matthias M. , Reiche Magdalena , Bauer Lukas , Ott Katja , Weichert Wilko , Keller Gisela
Published: October 2021

Background

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) consortium described EBV positivity(+), high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), genomic stability (GS) and chromosomal instability (CIN) as molecular subtypes in gastric carcinomas (GC). We investigated the predictive and prognostic value of these subtypes with emphasis on CIN in the context of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CTx) in GC.

Methods

TCGA subgroups were determined for 612 resected adenocarcinomas of the stomach and gastro-oesophageal junction (291 without, 321 with CTx) and 143 biopsies before CTx.

EBV and MSI-H were analysed by standard assays. CIN was detected by multiplex PCRs analysing 22 microsatellite markers. Besides the TCGA classification, CIN was divided into four CIN-subgroups: low, moderate, substantial, high. Mutation profiling was performed for 52 tumours by next-generation sequencing.

Results

EBV(+) (HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.23–1.02), MSI-H (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.35–0.89) and GS (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.45–1.13) were associated with increased survival compared to CIN in the resected tumours. Considering the extended CIN-classification, CIN-substantial was a negative prognostic factor in uni- and multivariable analysis in resected tumours with CTx (each p < 0.05). In biopsies before CTx, CIN-high predicted tumour regression (p = 0.026), but was not prognostically relevant.

Conclusion

A refined CIN classification reveals tumours with different biological characteristics and potential clinical implications.
Extracellular vesicles in pancreatic cancer progression and therapies
Authors: Chang Chao-Hui , Pauklin Siim
Published: October 2021

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide due to delayed diagnosis and limited treatments. More than 90% of all pancreatic cancers are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Extensive communication between tumour cells and other cell types in the tumour microenvironment have been identified which regulate cancer hallmarks during pancreatic tumorigenesis via secretory factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The EV-capsuled factors not only facilitate tumour growth locally, but also enter circulation and reach distant organs to construct a pre-metastatic niche. In this review, we delineate the key factors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma derived EVs that mediate different tumour processes. Also, we highlight the factors that are related to the crosstalk with cancer stem cells/cancer-initiating cells (CSC/CIC), the subpopulation of cancer cells that can efficiently metastasize and resist currently used chemotherapies. Lastly, we discuss the potential of EV-capsuled factors in early diagnosis and antitumour therapeutic strategies.
Population structure, biogeography and transmissibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Freschi Luca , Vargas Roger , Husain Ashaque , Kamal S. M. Mostofa , Skrahina Alena , Tahseen Sabira , Ismail Nazir , Barbova Anna , Niemann Stefan , Cirillo Daniela Maria , Dean Anna S. , Zignol Matteo , Farhat Maha Reda
Published: October 2021

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a clonal pathogen proposed to have co-evolved with its human host for millennia, yet our understanding of its genomic diversity and biogeography remains incomplete. Here we use a combination of phylogenetics and dimensionality reduction to reevaluate the population structure of M. tuberculosis, providing an in-depth analysis of the ancient Indo-Oceanic Lineage 1 and the modern Central Asian Lineage 3, and expanding our understanding of Lineages 2 and 4. We assess sub-lineages using genomic sequences from 4939 pan-susceptible strains, and find 30 new genetically distinct clades that we validate in a dataset of 4645 independent isolates. We find a consistent geographically restricted or unrestricted pattern for 20 groups, including three groups of Lineage 1. The distribution of terminal branch lengths across the M. tuberculosis phylogeny supports the hypothesis of a higher transmissibility of Lineages 2 and 4, in comparison with Lineages 3 and 1, on a global scale. We define an expanded barcode of 95 single nucleotide substitutions that allows rapid identification of 69 M. tuberculosis sub-lineages and 26 additional internal groups. Our results paint a higher resolution picture of the M. tuberculosis phylogeny and biogeography.
Spared perilesional V1 activity underlies training-induced recovery of luminance detection sensitivity in cortically-blind patients
Authors: Barbot Antoine , Das Anasuya , Melnick Michael D. , Cavanaugh Matthew R. , Merriam Elisha P. , Heeger David J. , Huxlin Krystel R.
Published: October 2021

Damage to the primary visual cortex (V1) causes homonymous visual-field loss long considered intractable. Multiple studies now show that perceptual training can restore visual functions in chronic cortically-induced blindness (CB). A popular hypothesis is that training can harness residual visual functions by recruiting intact extrageniculostriate pathways. Training may also induce plastic changes within spared regions of the damaged V1. Here, we link changes in luminance detection sensitivity with retinotopic fMRI activity before and after visual discrimination training in eleven patients with chronic, stroke-induced CB. We show that spared V1 activity representing perimetrically-blind locations prior to training predicts the amount of training-induced recovery of luminance detection sensitivity. Additionally, training results in an enlargement of population receptive fields in perilesional V1, which increases blind-field coverage and may support further recovery with subsequent training. These findings uncover fundamental changes in perilesional V1 cortex underlying training-induced restoration of conscious luminance detection sensitivity in CB.
Molecular insights into receptor binding of recent emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Han Pengcheng , Su Chao , Zhang Yanfang , Bai Chongzhi , Zheng Anqi , Qiao Chengpeng , Wang Qing , Niu Sheng , Chen Qian , Zhang Yuqin , Li Weiwei , Liao Hanyi , Li Jing , Zhang Zengyuan , Cho Heecheol , Yang Mengsu , Rong Xiaoyu , Hu Yu , Huang Niu , Yan Jinghua , Wang Qihui , Zhao Xin , Gao George Fu , Qi Jianxun
Published: October 2021

Multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) have been emerging and some have been linked to an increase in case numbers globally. However, there is yet a lack of understanding of the molecular basis for the interactions between the human ACE2 (hACE2) receptor and these VOCs. Here we examined several VOCs including Alpha, Beta, and Gamma, and demonstrate that five variants receptor-binding domain (RBD) increased binding affinity for hACE2, and four variants pseudoviruses increased entry into susceptible cells. Crystal structures of hACE2-RBD complexes help identify the key residues facilitating changes in hACE2 binding affinity. Additionally, soluble hACE2 protein efficiently prevent most of the variants pseudoviruses. Our findings provide important molecular information and may help the development of novel therapeutic and prophylactic agents targeting these emerging mutants.
Experimental demonstration of peripherally-excited antenna arrays
Authors: Dorrah Ayman H. , Eleftheriades George V.
Published: October 2021

Emerging technologies such as 5G communication systems, autonomous vehicles and satellite Internet have led to a renewed interest in 2D antennas that are capable of generating fixed/scannable pencil beams. Although traditional active phased arrays are technologically suitable for these applications, there are cases where other alternatives are more attractive, especially if they are simpler and less costly to design and fabricate. Recently, the concept of the Peripherally-Excited (PEX) antenna array has been proposed, promising a sizable reduction in the active-element count, especially when compared with traditional phased arrays. Albeit at the price of exhibiting some constraints on the possible beam-pointing directions. Here, we demonstrate the first practical implementation of the PEX antenna concept, and the proposed design is capable of generating single or multiple independently scannable pencil beams at broadside and tilted radiation directions, from a shared radiating aperture. The proposed structure is also easily scalable to higher millimeter-wave frequencies, and can be particularly useful in MIMO and duplex antenna applications, commonly encountered in automotive radars, among others.
Influence of historical changes in tropical reef habitat on the diversification of coral reef fishes
Authors: Leprieur Fabien , Pellissier Loic , Mouillot David , Gaboriau Théo
Published: October 2021

Past environmental changes are expected to have profoundly impacted diversity dynamics through time. While some previous studies showed an association between past climate changes or tectonic events and important shifts in lineage diversification, it is only recently that past environmental changes have been explicitly integrated in diversification models to test their influence on diversification rates. Here, we used a global reconstruction of tropical reef habitat dynamics during the Cenozoic and phylogenetic diversification models to test the influence of (i) major geological events, (ii) reef habitat fragmentation and (iii) reef area on the diversification of 9 major clades of tropical reef fish (Acanthuridae, Balistoidea, Carangoidea, Chaetodontidae, Haemulinae, Holocentridae, Labridae, Pomacentridae and Sparidae). The diversification models revealed a weak association between paleo-habitat changes and diversification dynamics. Specifically, the fragmentation of tropical reef habitats over the Cenozoic was found to be a driver of tropical reef fish diversification for 2 clades. However, overall, our approach did not allow the identification of striking associations between diversification dynamics and paleo-habitat fragmentation in contrast with theoretical model’s predictions.
Vitamin D deficiency during late pregnancy mediates placenta-associated complications
Authors: Raia-Barjat Tiphaine , Sarkis Camille , Rancon Florence , Thibaudin Lise , Gris Jean-Christophe , Alfaidy Nadia , Chauleur Céline
Published: October 2021

During pregnancy, maternal vitamin D insufficiency could increase the risk of preeclampsia. Aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D status and the occurrence of placenta-mediated complications (PMCs) in a population at high risk. A prospective multicenter cohort study of 200 pregnant patients was conducted. The vitamin D level of patients with placenta-mediated complications was lower at 32 weeks compared to uncomplicated pregnancies (P = 0.001). At 32 weeks, the risk of occurrence of PMCs was five times higher in patients with vitamin D deficiency (RR: 5.14 95% CI (1.50–17.55)) compared to patients with normal vitamin D levels. There was a strong, inverse relationship between serum 25(OH)D levels at 32 weeks and the subsequent risk of PMCs (P = 0.001). At 32 weeks, the vitamin D level of patients with late-onset PMCs was lower than the one of patients with early-onset PMCs and of patients without PMCs (P < 0.0001). These results suggest a role of vitamin D in the maintenance of placental performance and therefore in the prevention of the onset of late PMC.
Genetic transformation and growth index determination of the Larix olgensis LoHDZ2 transcription factor gene in tobacco
Authors: An Peiqi , Wang Chen , Cao Qing , Zhao Qingrong , Qin Ruofan , Zhang Lei , Zhang Hanguo
Published: October 2021

Homeodomain-leucine zippers (HD-Zip) are plant-specific transcription factors that participate in different plant development processes and differentially regulate metabolic processes. LoHDZ2 is an HD-ZipII subfamily transcription factor gene that we identified from a transcriptomic analysis of Larix olgensis. To understand its function, we built a LoHDZ2 expression vector and then inserted it into tobacco by genetic transformation. Transgenic plants were identified at the DNA and RNA levels. Phenotypic index analysis of transgenic tobacco showed dwarfed growth with larger leaves and earlier flowering than the wild type. LoHDZ2 was expressed differently after hormone treatment with IAA, MeJA and 2,4-D. The results suggested that LoHDZ2 may respond to hormones and be involved in regulating growth and metabolism. These results helped us better understand the function of LoHDZ2 and provided a candidate gene for Larix olgensis molecular breeding.
Ancient DNA SNP-panel data suggests stability in bluefin tuna genetic diversity despite centuries of fluctuating catches in the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean
Authors: Andrews Adam J. , Puncher Gregory N. , Bernal-Casasola Darío , Di Natale Antonio , Massari Francesco , Onar Vedat , Toker Nezir Yaşar , Hanke Alex , Pavey Scott A. , Savojardo Castrense , Martelli Pier Luigi , Casadio Rita , Cilli Elisabetta , Morales-Muñiz Arturo , Mantovani Barbara , Tinti Fausto , Cariani Alessia
Published: October 2021

Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus; BFT) abundance was depleted in the late 20th and early 21st century due to overfishing. Historical catch records further indicate that the abundance of BFT in the Mediterranean has been fluctuating since at least the 16th century. Here we build upon previous work on ancient DNA of BFT in the Mediterranean by comparing contemporary (2009–2012) specimens with archival (1911–1926) and archaeological (2nd century BCE–15th century CE) specimens that represent population states prior to these two major periods of exploitation, respectively. We successfully genotyped and analysed 259 contemporary and 123 historical (91 archival and 32 archaeological) specimens at 92 SNP loci that were selected for their ability to differentiate contemporary populations or their association with core biological functions. We found no evidence of genetic bottlenecks, inbreeding or population restructuring between temporal sample groups that might explain what has driven catch fluctuations since the 16th century. We also detected a putative adaptive response, involving the cytoskeletal protein synemin which may be related to muscle stress. However, these results require further investigation with more extensive genome-wide data to rule out demographic changes due to overfishing, and other natural and anthropogenic factors, in addition to elucidating the adaptive drivers related to these.
Detecting initial correlations via correlated spectroscopy in hybrid quantum systems
Authors: Jatakia Parth , Vinjanampathy Sai , Saha Kasturi
Published: October 2021

Generic mesoscopic quantum systems that interact with their environment tend to display appreciable correlations with environment that often play an important role in the physical properties of the system. However, the experimental methods needed to characterize such systems either ignore the role of initial correlations or scale unfavourably with system dimensions. Here, we present a technique that is agnostic to system–environment correlations and can be potentially implemented experimentally. Under a specific set of constraints, we demonstrate the ability to detect and measure specific correlations. We apply the technique to two cases related to Nitrogen Vacancy Centers (NV). Firstly, we use the technique on an NV coupled to a P1 defect centre in the environment to demonstrate the ability to detect dark spins. Secondly, we implement the technique on a hybrid quantum system of NV coupled to an optical cavity with initial correlations. We extract the interaction strength and effective number of interacting NVs from the initial correlations using our technique.
N,S co-doped Co3O4 core–shell nanospheres with high peroxidase activity for the fast colorimetric detection of catechol
Authors: Liu Xiangwei , Cao Xiaoyan , Zhao Shuang , Liu Zhenxue , Lu Guang , Liu Qingyun
Published: October 2021

A fast colorimetric catechol sensing platform is constructed on the basis of the enhanced peroxidase-like activity of N,S co-doped Co3O4 core–shell nanospheres, ascribed to the active species including ˙O2− and h+.
Atomically dispersed Pd catalysts promote the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media
Authors: Qin Fengjuan , Zhou Danni , Sun Mengru , Xu Wenjing , Tang Hao , Fan Jianling , Chen Wenxing
Published: October 2021

Pd–Pt3Sn single-atom alloy catalysts prepared via a hydrothermal method have high activity and excellent stability in acidic media compared with commercial IrO2.
Self-sorting behavior in supramolecular fullerene polymerization directed by host–guest complexation between calix[5]arene and C60
Authors: Hirao Takehiro , Fujii Naoka , Iwabe Yoshiki , Haino Takeharu
Published: October 2021

Herein, we describe self-sorting supramolecular polymerization that uses chiral calix[5]arene hosts and a dumbbell-shaped fullerene guest.
Ultrasensitive pathogen detection with a rolling circle amplification-empowered multiplex electrochemical DNA sensor
Authors: Yeap Cheryl S.Y. , Chaibun Thanyarat , Lee Su Yin , Zhao Bin , Jan Yuan , La-o-vorakiat Chan , Surareungchai Werasak , Song Shiping , Lertanantawong Benchaporn
Published: October 2021

Multiplex target hybridization and electrochemical detection of 3 enteropathogens (ST: S. typhi; SF: S. flexneri; and VC: V. cholerae).
DNA-mediated hierarchical organization of gold nanoprisms into 3D aggregates and their application in surface-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Chowdhury Emtias , Rahaman Mohammad Shahinur , Sathitsuksanoh Noppadon , Grapperhaus Craig A. , O’Toole Martin G.
Published: October 2021

Colloidal crystallization using DNA provides a robust method for fabricating highly programmable nanoparticle superstructures with collective plasmonic properties.
Exploration of highly electron-rich manganese complexes in enantioselective oxidation catalysis; a focus on enantioselective benzylic oxidation
Authors: Masferrer-Rius Eduard , Li Fanshi , Lutz Martin , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M.
Published: October 2021

The development of highly electron-rich manganese complexes for enantioselective benzylic oxidation (and asymmetric epoxidation) is described, to provide chiral benzylic alcohols and epoxides in good yields and enantioselectivites.
The influence of alkyl chains on the performance of DSCs employing iron(ii) N-heterocyclic carbene sensitizers
Authors: Becker Mariia , Wyss Vanessa , Housecroft Catherine E. , Constable Edwin C.
Published: October 2021

DSC photoconversion efficiencies of up to 0.93–0.95% have been achieved for a new heteroleptic iron(ii) N-heterocyclic carbene sensitizer employing n-butyl chains.
Recent strategies and tactics for the enantioselective total syntheses of cyclolignan natural products
Authors: Reynolds Rebekah G. , Nguyen Huong Quynh Anh , Reddel Jordan C. T. , Thomson Regan J.
Published: October 2021

This review highlights strategies for the enantioselective total synthesis of cyclolignan natural products from 2000 to 2021. Each subsection focuses on the key strategic disconnections and the enantioselective steps controlling asymmetric induction.
Selective divergent radical cyclization of 1,6-dienes with alkyl nitriles
Authors: Kang Qing-Qing , Liu Yi , Wu Shi-Ping , Ge Guo-Ping , Zheng Hongxing , Zhang Jun-Qi , Wei Wen-Ting
Published: October 2021

An efficient, selective, and step economical radical cyclization of 1,6-dienes with alkyl nitriles initiated by α-C(sp3)–H functionalization under the Sc(OTf)3 and Ag2CO3 system is described here.
Recent advances on triptycene derivatives in supramolecular and materials chemistry
Authors: Gu Meng-Jie , Wang Yin-Feng , Han Ying , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: October 2021

In this review, recent researches on triptycene-based macrocyclic arenes, organic cages, porous materials and TADF materials are summarized.
Synthesis of trifluoromethyl-substituted 1,2,6-thiadiazine 1-oxides from sulfonimidamides under mechanochemical conditions
Authors: Thomas Passia Marco , Schöbel Jan-Hendrik , Julian Lentelink Niklas , Truong Khai-Nghi , Rissanen Kari , Bolm Carsten
Published: October 2021

Under solvent-free mechanochemical conditions, TBS-protected and NH-sulfonimidamides react with -alkoxyvinyl trifluoromethylketones to give 3-trifluoromethyl-substituted 1,2,6-thiadiazine 1-oxides representing three-dimensional heterocycles.
Perforalactones D and E, two new C-20 quassinoids with potential activity to induce lysosomal biogenesis from the twigs of Harrisonia perforata (Blanco) Merr.
Authors: Liu Shuai , Zhang Cui-Shan , Ran Xiao-Qian , Tang Xiao-Han , Guo Ya-Rong , Yan Ying , Yao Yong-Gang , Hao Xiao-Jiang , Luo Rong-Can , Di Ying-Tong
Published: October 2021

Two new quassinoids, perforalactones D and E, from Harrisonia perforata, could promote the expression of lysosomal genes and induce lysosomal biogenesis.
Sulfonic acid-functionalized PCP(Cr) catalysts with Cr3+ and –SO3H sites for 5-ethoxymethylfurfural production from glucose
Authors: Zhang Luxin , Liu Yuting , Sun Ruijun , Yi Simin
Published: October 2021

The PCP(Cr)-BA catalysts featured porous morphology and dual Cr3+ and –SO3H sites, which enabled the cascade conversion of glucose to EMF. In addition, the as-prepared catalyst exhibited a high stability in the current catalytic system.
Two-dimensional polarized MoTe2/GeS heterojunction with an intrinsic electric field for photocatalytic water-splitting
Authors: Gu Di , Tao Xiaoma , Chen Hongmei , Ouyang Yifang , Zhu Weiling , Du Yong
Published: October 2021

The 2D polarized material-based MoTe2/GeS heterojunction would be a highly efficient photocatalyst for producing hydrogen energy.
Intermittent dynamics of bubble dissolution due to interfacial growth of fat crystals
Authors: Liascukiene Irma , Amselem Gabriel , Landoulsi Jessem , Gunes Deniz Z. , Baroud Charles N.
Published: October 2021

We coat single air bubbles with fat crystals. The presence of crystals slows down bubble dissolution, and coated bubbles exhibit intermittent dissolution dynamics.
Tuning cell adhesion on supported lipid bilayersviananoscale geometry
Authors: Li Long , Gao Jie , Shao Yingfeng , Song Fan , Hu Jinglei
Published: October 2021

Nanoscale geometry of the supported lipid bilayer (SLB) affects the binding of cell adhesion receptors to their cognate ligands on the SLB.
A biodegradable multifunctional nanoplatform based on antimonene nanosheets for synergistic cancer phototherapy and dual imaging
Authors: Jin Xiaokang , Xu Chengfeng , Hu Jinhua , Yao Shuting , Hu Zhiwen , Wang Bing
Published: October 2021

Schematic diagram for the preparation of AMNS/AuNPs@CS/IR820 formed by antimonene nanosheets (AMNS), gold nanorods (AuNRs), chitosan (CS) and IR820 via electrostatic adsorption for synergistic cancer phototherapy and dual imaging.
Emerging electronic applications of fullerene derivatives: an era beyond OPV
Authors: Liu Jian , Qiu Li , Shao Shuyan
Published: October 2021

This review highlights the important role of fullerene derivatives in several emerging research directions beyond OPV and summarizes recent progresses in the development of fullerene derivatives to boost device performance in these new fields.
Itaconate as an inflammatory mediator and therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine
Authors: Diotallevi Marina , Ayaz Faseeha , Nicol Thomas , Crabtree Mark J.
Published: October 2021

Inflammation is a critical component of cardiovascular disease (CVD), encompassing coronary artery disease (CAD), cerebrovascular events and heart failure and is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. In recent years, metabolism has been placed centrally in the governance of the immune response. Termed immunometabolism, immune cells adapt cellular metabolic pathways to meet demands of activation and thus function. This rewiring influences not only the bioenergetics of the cell but altered metabolites act as signalling molecules to regulate cellular response. In this review, we focus on the TCA cycle derivative, itaconate, as one such metabolite with promising immunomodulatory and therapeutic potential in inflammatory cardiovascular disease.
Organic chemistry in the protosolar analogue HOPS-108: Environment matters
Authors: Chahine L. , López-Sepulcre A. , Neri R. , Ceccarelli C. , Mercimek S. , Codella C. , Bouvier M. , Bianchi E. , Favre C. , Podio L. , Alves F. O. , Sakai N. , Yamamoto S.
Published: October 2021

Context. Hot corinos are compact regions around solar-mass protostellar objects that are very rich in interstellar Complex Organic Molecules (iCOMs). How the abundance of these molecules is affected by the environmental physical conditions is still an open question. More specifically, addressing this point is key to understand our own chemical origins since the Solar System formed in a large cluster of low- to high-mass stars and was therefore subject to external heating and ultraviolet irradiation which may have shaped the chemistry of its early formation stages.

Aims. The goal of this high resolution study is to determine the abundance ratios of iCOMs in HOPS-108, which is a Class 0 protostar and a hot corino candidate located in the nearest Solar System analogue, the protostellar cluster OMC-2 FIR 4, in Orion. We aim to compare the abundance ratios to those found in other hot corinos, which are all located in less crowded environments, in order to understand the impact of environmental conditions on hot corinos’ chemistry.

Methods. We observed the OMC-2 FIR 4 proto-cluster using the Band 6 of the Atacama Large (sub-)Millimetre Array in Cycle 4 with an angular resolution of ~0.′′28 (110 au). We determined the abundances and temperature of the species using local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) and non-LTE analysis.

Results. Our results reveal a rich organic chemistry towards HOPS-108, asserting that it is a hot corino where the following iCOMs are detected: CH3OH, HCOOCH3, CH3OCH3, CH318OH, CH2DOH, CH3COCH3, CH3CHO, CH3CN, 13CH3CN, C2H5CN, and NH2CHO. Remarkably, we find a possible enhancement in the HCOOCH3 abundance with respect to other known hot corinos. Indeed, the [CH3OCH3]/[HCOOCH3] abundance ratio in this source is ~0.2 and, within the uncertainties, it deviates from the known correlation marginally where [CH3OCH3]/[HCOOCH3] ~1. A relatively low [CH2DOH]/[CH3OH] abundance ratio of ~0.02 is also obtained, which is in agreement with that found in another Orion source, HH212, suggesting a higher gas temperature during the early phases of ice mantle formation.

Conclusions. The [CH3OCH3]/[HCOOCH3] and [CH2DOH]/[CH3OH] abundance ratios in HOPS-108 might result from different physical conditions in the Orion molecular complex compared to other regions. The former ratio cannot be reproduced with current chemical models, highlighting the importance of improving the chemical networks with theoretical calculations. More hot corinos located in heavily clustered regions such as Orion should be targeted in order to measure these ratios and evaluate whether they are an environmental product or whether HOPS-108 is an exceptional hot corino overall.
Frühsommer-Meningoenzephalitis bei einem Hund
Authors: Dultz Regina , Goldhammer Marc
Published: October 2021

Bei der Frühsommer-Meningoenzephalitis (FSME) handelt es sich um eine beim Hund selten diagnostizierte durch Zecken übertragene Infektionskrankheit. Die Diagnosestellung einer Infektion mit dem FSME-Virus (FSMEV) am lebenden Tier basiert auf dem gleichzeitigen Vorliegen typischer klinisch-neurologischer Symptome, einem akuten und rasch progressiven Krankheitsverlauf, einem Nachweis FSMEV-spezifischer Antikörper (im Liquor cerebrospinalis) oder einem FSMEV-RNA-Nachweis (in Blut oder Liquor) und einer nachgewiesenen Pleozytose im Liquor. Im beschriebenen Fall war aufgrund der Ergebnisse der durchgeführten Untersuchungen von dem Vorliegen einer FSME auszugehen. Zu den klassischen Symptomen einer klinisch-manifesten FSME zählt neben einer Hyperthermie und zentralnervösen Störungen (Ataxie, Hyperästhesie, Krampfanfälle, Wesensveränderungen) häufig eine Dolenz bei der Flexion der Halswirbelsäule. Im beschriebenen Fall konnte eine chronische Verlaufsform mit einer Regenerationszeit von mehreren Monaten dokumentiert werden. Die Behandlung erfolgt symptomatisch, da es bislang keine spezifische Therapie gibt. Ein Impfstoff gegen FMSE ist in der Veterinärmedizin, im Gegensatz zur Humanmedizin, derzeit nicht zugelassen. Die Zeckenprophylaxe stellt daher momentan die einzige Möglichkeit zur Prävention einer FSME beim Hund dar.
Chronische Enteropathien bei der Katze – diagnostische und therapeutische Aspekte
Authors: Ewald Nicole , Rödler Frauke , Heilmann Romy M.
Published: October 2021

Unter chronischen Enteropathien werden Erkrankungen zusammengefasst, die mit Vomitus, Diarrhö, Anorexie und Gewichtsverlust einhergehen und über einen längeren Zeitraum (mindestens 3 Wochen) oder chronisch intermittierend vorliegen. Die Diagnosestellung erfolgt als Ausschlussdiagnostik durch Kot- und Blutuntersuchungen (T4, Leber- und Pankreasdiagnostik, Tests auf Infektionen durch FeLV, FIV, Vitamin-B12-Status), bildgebende Verfahren, ggf. die Untersuchung von Gewebeproben aus dem Gastrointestinaltrakt sowie das Ansprechen auf eine diagnostische Therapie. Der Sammelbegriff chronische Enteropathie beinhaltet die Futtermittel-responsive Enteropathie (FRE), die Antibiotika-responsive Enteropathie (ARE), Immunsuppressiva-responsive bzw. -refraktäre Enteropathie (IRE), auch idiopathische Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Das kleinzellige („low-grade“) alimentäre Lymphom (LGAL) stellt insbesondere bei älteren Katzen eine wichtige Differenzialdiagnose dar. Numerische Bewertungssysteme wie der „feline chronic enteropathy activity index“ (FCEAI) ermöglichen es, den Schweregrad der Erkrankung und damit auch das Ansprechen auf die Behandlung einzuschätzen. Die Prognose hängt von der Erkrankungsursache ab. Die FRE hat bei gut umsetzbarer diätetischer Therapie eine recht gute Langzeitprognose. Bei der IRE variiert der Therapieerfolg zwischen gutem Ansprechen bis zu Therapieversagen (nicht responsive Enteropathie, NRE) oder häufigen Rückfällen. Mit entsprechender Behandlung ist die Prognose des LGAL vergleichsweise günstig (mediane Überlebenszeit 510–704 Tage).