bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure of domestic dogs and cats to ticks (Acari: Ixodida) and selected tick-borne diseases in urban and recreational areas in southern Poland
Authors: Kocoń Anna , Asman Marek , Nowak-Chmura Magdalena , Witecka Joanna , Rączka Grzegorz
Published: May 2022

The public health problem of tick-borne diseases has attracted much attention in recent years due to an increasing incidence in humans and animals. The aim of this study was to compare the risk of exposure to ticks and tick-borne infections in dogs and cats in recreational and urbanized areas in the Lesser Poland and Silesian Provinces. For molecular testing for the presence of the selected pathogens, 207I.ricinusfemales collected from 119 dogs and 50 cats, and 2I.hexagonusfemales collected from 2 domestic dogs, were examined. Overall,A.phagocytophilumwas found in 3.7% of theI.ricinusspecimens,B.microtiin 27.1%, andB.burgdorferis.l. in 0.9%. In urban areas of both provinces,A.phagocytophilumwas found in 4.8% of theI.ricinusspecimens,B.microtiin 41.6%andB.burgdorferis.l. in 3.9%.Pathogens were detectedB.microtiin both studiedI.hexagonusspecimens. These findings may indicate the important role that these animals play in the circulation of these pathogens in nature.
Child saliva microbiota and caries: a randomized controlled maternal education trial in rural Uganda
Authors: Muhoozi Grace K. M. , Li Kelvin , Atukunda Prudence , Skaare Anne B. , Willumsen Tiril , Enersen Morten , Westerberg Ane C. , Morris Alison , Vieira Alexandre R. , Iversen Per O. , Methé Barbara A.
Published: May 2022

Undernutrition is a public health challenge in sub-Saharan countries, including Uganda. In a previous randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a nutrition, hygiene and stimulation education intervention among mothers of 6 months’ old children, we found less caries in the intervention group when the children were 36 months of age. We now examined the effects of (i) the intervention on the microbiota, (ii) microbiota on caries, and (iii) the intervention and microbiota on caries. The original RCT comprised 511 mother/child pairs whereas in the current study we had access to data from 344/511 (67%) children aged 36 months. The saliva microbiota was determined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Carious lesions (a proxy for dental health) were identified using close-up intra-oral photographs of the upper front teeth. Statistical models were used to determine host-microbiota associations. The intervention had a significant effect on the microbiota, e.g. an increase in Streptococcus abundance and decreases in Alloprevotella and Tannerella. Significant associations between the microbiota and dental caries were identified: Positive associations of Capnocytophaga and Tannerella suggest that these taxa may be deleterious to dental health while negative associations of Granulicatella, Fusobacterium, and Abiotrophia suggest taxa potentially beneficial or benign contributors to dental health. Based on taxonomic profiles, the effects of the intervention and microbiota on dental health may be independent of one another. Educational interventions with emphasis on nutrition and oral hygiene may provide a feasible strategy to decrease progression of childhood caries in low-resource settings.
Analysis of the coexistence of gaming and viewing activities in Twitch users and their relationship with pathological gaming: a multilayer perceptron approach
Authors: Cabeza-Ramírez L. Javier , Rey-Carmona Francisco José , del Carmen Cano-Vicente Mª , Solano-Sánchez Miguel Ángel
Published: May 2022

The enormous expansion of the video game sector, driven by the emergence of live video game streaming platforms and the professionalisation of this hobby through e-sports, has spurred interest in research on the relationships with potential adverse effects derived from cumulative use. This study explores the co-occurrence of the consumption and viewing of video games, based on an analysis of the motivations for using these services, the perceived positive uses, and the gamer profile. To that end, a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network is developed and tested on a sample of 970 video game users. The results show that the variables with a significant influence on pathological gaming are the motivation of a sense of belonging to the different platforms, as well as the positive uses relating to making friends and the possibility of making this hobby a profession. Furthermore, the individual effects of each of the variables have been estimated. The results indicate that the social component linked to the positive perception of making new friends and the self-perceived level as a gamer have been identified as possible predictors, when it comes to a clinical assessment of the adverse effects. Conversely, the variables age and following specific streamers are found to play a role in reducing potential negative effects.
Prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in the Russian Ural Eye and Medical Study and the Ural Very Old Study
Authors: Bikbov Mukharram M. , Gilmanshin Timur R. , Zainullin Rinat M. , Kazakbaeva Gyulli M. , Iakupova Ellina M. , Fakhretdinova Albina A. , Tuliakova Azaliia M. , Panda-Jonas Songhomitra , Gilemzianova Leisan I. , Khakimov Dinar A. , Miniazeva Liana A. , Jonas Jost B.
Published: May 2022

Information about prevalence and associated factors of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been scarce for the Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian world region. We assessed prevalence and associated factors of NAFLD in two population-based studies (Ural Eye and Medical Study (UEMS), Ural Very Old Study (UVOS)), which were conducted in rural and urban regions in Bashkortostan/Russia and included participants aged 40 + years and 85 + years, respectively. Defining NAFLD by an absence of regular alcohol consumption, and by abnormally high alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) concentrations or an AST/ALT ratio of > 1.0, 2341 out of 5852 UEMS participants (40.0%; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 38.8, 41.3) had NAFLD. A higher NAFLD prevalence correlated (multivariable analysis) with older age (odds ratio (OR) 1.02; 95%CI 1.01, 1.03; P < 0.001), female sex (OR 1.87; 95%CI 1.58, 2.21; P < 0.001), higher waist-hip circumference ratio (OR 2.64; 95%CI 1.11, 6.27; P = 0.03), lower depression score (OR 0.98; 95%CI 0.96, 0.999; P = 0.04), higher serum concentrations of creatinine (OR 1.004; 95%CI 1.000, 1.008; P = 0.03) and bilirubine (OR 1.009; 95%CI 1.002, 1.015; P = 0.008), lower prothrombin index (OR 0.99; 95%CI 0.985, 0.998; P = 0.01), lower ankle-brachial index (OR 0.49; 95%CI 0.32, 0.75; P = 0.001), higher prevalence of a grain-rich diet (OR 1.88; 95%CI 1.50, 2.36; P < 0.001) and iron deficiency-related anemia (OR 1.61; 95%CI 1.13, 2.29; P = 0.009), and lower prevalence of vigorous leisure activities (OR 0.84; 95%CI 0.72, 0.99; P = 0.04). In the UVOS, NAFLD prevalence (mean: 789/1130; 69.8%; 95%CI 67.1, 72.3) was associated with female sex (OR 2.24; 95%CI 1.66, 3.01; P < 0.001), higher serum concentrations of low-density lipoproteins (OR 1.34; 95%CI 1.17, 1.55; P < 0.001), lower prothrombin index (OR 0.98; 95%CI 0.96, 0.99; P = 0.002), and lower ankle-brachial index (OR 0.03; 95%CI 0.02, 0.29; P = 0.003). The NAFLD prevalence of 40% in the UEMS and 69.8% in the UVOS corresponds to findings obtained in other world regions and shows the importance of NAFLD, including its determinants such as age, sex, waist-hip ratio, serum creatinine concentration, prothrombin index, ankle-brachial index, and lower physical activity.
Large-scale genetic correlation scanning and causal association between deep vein thrombosis and human blood metabolites
Authors: Luo Pan , Xu Jiawen , Cheng Shiqiang , Xu Ke , Jing Wensen , Zhang Feng , Xu Peng
Published: May 2022

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to the abnormal coagulation of blood in a deep vein. Recently, some studies have found that metabolites are related to the occurrence of DVT and may serve as new markers for the diagnosis of DVT. In this study, we used the GWAS summary dataset of blood metabolites and DVT to perform a large-scale genetic correlation scan of DVT and blood metabolites to explore the correlation between blood metabolites and DVT. We used GWAS summary data of DVT from the UK Biobank (UK Biobank fields: 20002) and GWAS summary data of blood metabolites from a previously published study (including 529 metabolites in plasma or serum from 7824 adults from two European population studies) for genetic correlation analysis. Then, we conducted a causal study between the screened blood metabolites and DVT by Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. In the first stage, genetic correlation analysis identified 9 blood metabolites that demonstrated a suggestive association with DVT. These metabolites included Valine (correlation coefficient = 0.2440, P value = 0.0430), Carnitine (correlation coefficient = 0.1574, P value = 0.0146), Hydroxytryptophan (correlation coefficient = 0.2376, P value = 0.0360), and 1-stearoylglycerophosphoethanolamine (correlation coefficient = − 0.3850, P value = 0.0258). Then, based on the IVW MR model, we analysed the causal relationship between the screened blood metabolites and DVT and found that there was a suggestive causal relationship between Hydroxytryptophan (exposure) and DVT (outcome) (β = − 0.0378, se = 0.0163, P = 0.0204). Our study identified a set of candidate blood metabolites that showed a suggestive association with DVT. We hope that our findings will provide new insights into the pathogenesis and diagnosis of DVT in the future.
Paleoreconstructions of ciliate communities reveal long-term ecological changes in temperate lakes
Authors: Barouillet Cécilia , Vasselon Valentin , Keck François , Millet Laurent , Etienne David , Galop Didier , Rius Damien , Domaizon Isabelle
Published: May 2022

Ciliates are unicellular heterotrophic organisms that play a key role in aquatic planktonic and benthic food webs. Advances in sedimentary DNA (sed-DNA) analysis offer the possibility to integrate these bioindicators in paleoenvironmental reconstructions. In this study, we used the top–bottom paleolimnological approach and metabarcoding techniques applied to sed-DNA to compare the recent and past (i.e. prior to major anthropogenic impacts) ciliate communities of 48 lakes located along an elevation gradient. Our results show an overall decline in the β-diversity in recent time, especially in lowland lakes, which are more strongly exposed to local human pressures. Analyses of the functional groups indicate important restructuration of the food web, including the recent increase in mixotrophs. Moreover, changes in the benthic ciliates were consistent with the widespread increase in deep water anoxia. Our results provided evidence that sed-DNA can uncover information about past ciliate communities on a wide variety of lakes. Overall, our study demonstrates the potential of using ciliates as new paleoindicators, integrating information from the pelagic to the benthic zones, and providing valuable insights into ecosystem functioning through a trait-based functional community approach. As paleoindicator, they thus offer a more holistic view on the long-term changes of aquatic ecosystems.
Effects of age and gender on body composition indices as predictors of mortality in middle-aged and old people
Authors: Chang Chin-Sung , Liu I-Ting , Liang Fu-Wen , Li Chia-Chun , Sun Zih-Jie , Chang Yin-Fan , Chao Ting-Hsing , Wu Chih-Hsing
Published: May 2022

To determine whether body composition indices interact with age and gender as a predictor of all-cause mortality, 1200 participants at least 40 years of age were recruited in 2009 and 2010. A multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis device was used to measure each participant’s body composition indices, including the fat mass index (FMI), fat free mass index (FFMI), skeletal muscle mass index (SMMI), and visceral fat area index (VFAI). A baseline questionnaire was used to collect demographic information about lifestyle habits, socioeconomic status, and medical conditions. All claimed records of death from 2009 to 2018 in the National Health Insurance Research Databank were identified. The all-cause mortality rate was 8.67% after a mean follow-up period of 5.86 ± 2.39 person-years. The Cox proportional hazard model analysis showed significantly negative associations between FFMI or SMMI with all-cause mortality in the total group and those aged $$\geq$$
≥
 65 y/o. The FFMI and SMMI were negative predictors of mortality in both genders. The FMI and VFAI were positive predictors of mortality exclusively in females. In conclusion, the SMMI is a better predictor of mortality than the BMI, FMI, and FFMI, especially in older adults. A higher fat mass or visceral fat distribution may predict higher mortality in females.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of Asian yellow pond turtle (Mauremys mutica) with temperature-dependent sex determination system
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Wang Yakun , Yuan Ju , Liu Fang , Hong Xiaoyou , Yu Lingyun , Chen Chen , Li Wei , Ni Wei , Liu Haiyang , Zhao Jian , Wei Chengqing , Chen Haigang , Liu Yihui , Zhu Xinping
Published: May 2022

Knowledge of sex determination has important implications in physiology, ecology and genetics, but the evolutionary mechanisms of sex determination systems in turtles have not been fully elucidated, due to a lack of reference genomes. Here, we generate a high-quality genome assembly of Asian yellow pond turtle (Mauremys mutica) using continuous long-read (PacBio platform), Illumina, and high-throughput chromatin conformation capture (Hi-C) technologies. TheM.muticahaplotype has a genome size of 2.23 Gb with a contig N50 of 8.53 Mb and scaffold N50 of 141.98 Mb. 99.98% sequences of the total assembly are anchored to 26 pseudochromosomes. Comparative genomics analysis indicated that the lizard-snake-tuatara clade diverged from the bird-crocodilian-turtle clade at approximately 267.0–312.3 Mya. Intriguingly, positive selected genes are mostly enriched in the calcium signaling pathway and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, which are involved in the process of temperature-dependent sex determination. These findings provide important evolutionary insights into temperature-dependent sex determination system.
Orientation-dependent fiber-optic inclinometer based on core-offset michelson interferometer
Authors: Wang Huajie , Zheng Laifang , Zhang Junsheng , Liu Jijun
Published: May 2022

An in-fiber Michelson interferometer (MI)-based inclinometer, which consists of misalignment-spliced fiber with end coating, is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The incident light divided at the misalignment-spliced joint is reflected at the end coating, and then re-coupled into the fiber core. Due to the phase difference between the core mode and the $$m{\text{th}}$$

m
th

cladding mode, a typical MI is formed. The fiber near the misalignment-spliced joint is inserted in two capillary quartz tubes. The tilt of the capillary quartz tube leads to a significant deformation and curvature of the misalignment-spliced joint, which causes the wavelength and intensity of the MI spectrum to change. The experimental results indicate a good response within the angle range of 0°–50°. Both the wavelength modulation and intensity modulation are realized, with sensitivities of 0.55 nm/deg and 0.17 dB/deg, respectively. Moreover, the sensor shows a strong orientation dependence due to the asymmetric structure in the misalignment-spliced joint.
Impaired brain activity in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation assessed by near-infrared spectroscopy and its changes after catheter ablation
Authors: Yoshihisa Akiomi , Kono Soichi , Kaneshiro Takashi , Ichijo Yasuhiro , Misaka Tomofumi , Yamada Shinya , Oikawa Masayoshi , Miura Itaru , Yabe Hirooki , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: May 2022

Although the prevalence of cognitive impairment and depression is higher in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) than in the general population, the mechanism has not been fully examined and impact of catheter ablation (CA) of AF also remains unclear. Recently, the development of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has enabled noninvasive measurements of regional cerebral blood volume and brain activity, in terms of cerebral oxyhemoglobin in the cerebral cortex. We assessed brain activities by NIRS, depressive symptoms by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and cognitive function by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). We then compared the results between AF patients (paroxysmal AF n = 18 and persistent AF n = 14) and control subjects (n = 29). Next, we also followed up persistent AF patients who kept sinus rhythm at 3 months after CA (n = 8) and measured their brain activities using NIRS, CES-D and MMSE after CA to investigate the associations of changes in brain activities with changes in both CES-D and MMSE. Our results showed that (1) frontal and temporal brain activities were lower in patients with persistent AF than both in control subjects and paroxysmal AF patients (P < 0.01), (2) frontal and temporal brain activities were improved in more than half of the persistent AF patients who kept sinus rhythm at 3 months after CA, especially in those who presented impaired brain activity before CA, and (3) improvement of frontal brain activity was associated with improvement of CES-D (R =  − 0.793, P = 0.019), whereas improvement of temporal brain activity was associated with improvement of MMSE (R = 0.749, P = 0.033). NIRS measurement showed reduced frontal and temporal brain activities in the persistent AF patients, CA improved frontal and temporal brain activities in some of these patients, and associated with improvement of depressive state and/or improvement of cognitive function.
An automated cell line authentication method for AstraZeneca global cell bank using deep neural networks on brightfield images
Authors: Tong Lei , Corrigan Adam , Kumar Navin Rathna , Hallbrook Kerry , Orme Jonathan , Wang Yinhai , Zhou Huiyu
Published: May 2022

Cell line authentication is important in the biomedical field to ensure that researchers are not working with misidentified cells. Short tandem repeat is the gold standard method, but has its own limitations, including being expensive and time-consuming. Deep neural networks achieve great success in the analysis of cellular images in a cost-effective way. However, because of the lack of centralized available datasets, whether or not cell line authentication can be replaced or supported by cell image classification is still a question. Moreover, the relationship between the incubation times and cellular images has not been explored in previous studies. In this study, we automated the process of the cell line authentication by using deep learning analysis of brightfield cell line images. We proposed a novel multi-task framework to identify cell lines from cell images and predict the duration of how long cell lines have been incubated simultaneously. Using thirty cell lines’ data from the AstraZeneca Cell Bank, we demonstrated that our proposed method can accurately identify cell lines from brightfield images with a 99.8% accuracy and predicts the incubation durations for cell images with the coefficient of determination score of 0.927. Considering that new cell lines are continually added to the AstraZeneca Cell Bank, we integrated the transfer learning technique with the proposed system to deal with data from new cell lines not included in the pre-trained model. Our method achieved excellent performance with a precision of 97.7% and recall of 95.8% in the detection of 14 new cell lines. These results demonstrated that our proposed framework can effectively identify cell lines using brightfield images.
Male-biased sex ratio in the crawling individuals of an invasive naticid snail during summer: implications for population management
Authors: Yoshida Kazuki , Setogawa Tomoka , Sato Toshiyuki , Yamada Manabu , Sato Tatsuma , Narita Kaoru , Matsumoto Akira , Tomiyama Takeshi
Published: May 2022

The naticid snail Laguncula pulchella is an invasive species that preys on clams in tidal flats and has serious impacts on clam fisheries in Japan. Laguncula pulchella burrow in sand, but often crawl on sediment surfaces during low tide. We investigated seasonal changes in the abundance and sex ratio of crawling L. pulchella during the daytime at Matsukawaura Lagoon, Japan, from March to October from 2015 to 2019. The density of crawling individuals peaked in July. The sex ratio of crawling individuals varied with months and years but was significantly biased towards males during the main copulation period (July–August); males accounted for 77–98% of the mature crawling individuals (≥ 25 mm shell height). The somatic condition of mature males declined from June to August, whereas that of females was constant during this period. These results indicate that mature males actively come to the sand surface during low tide to search for females for copulation from July to August. Fishermen make efforts to remove crawling individuals in summer, but the male-biased sex ratio must also be considered for effective population control of this species.
Vulnerability and stressors on the pathway to depression in a global cohort of young athletics (track and field) athletes
Authors: Timpka Toomas , Dahlström Örjan , Fagher Kristina , Adami Paolo Emilio , Andersson Christer , Jacobsson Jenny , Svedin Carl Göran , Bermon Stéphane
Published: May 2022

This research set out to identify pathways from vulnerability and stressors to depression in a global population of young athletes. Retrospective data were collected at age 18–19 years from Athletics athletes (n = 1322) originating from Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas. We hypothesised that sports-related and non-sports-related stressors in interaction with structural vulnerability instigate depression. Path modelling using Maximum likelihood estimation was employed for the data analysis. Depression caseness and predisposition were determined using the WHO-5 instrument. Thirty-six percent of the athletes (n = 480) returned complete data. Eighteen percent of the athletes reported lifetime physical abuse, while 11% reported sexual abuse. Forty-five percent of the athletes had recently sustained an injury. The prevalence of depression caseness was 5.6%. Pathways to depression caseness were observed from female sex (p = 0.037) and injury history (p = 0.035) and to predisposition for depression also through exposure to a patriarchal society (p = 0.046) and physical abuse (p < 0.001). We conclude that depression in a global population of young athletes was as prevalent as previously reported from general populations, and that universal mental health promotion in youth sports should include provision of equal opportunities for female and male participants, injury prevention, and interventions for abuse prevention and victim support.
Clinical characteristics of primary pars plana vitrectomy combined with air filling for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Xu Changzhong , Wu Jianhua , Li Yanzi , Zhang Rui , Feng Chao
Published: May 2022

To detect the prognostic factors associated with initial reattachment after primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with air tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). We retrospectively reviewed 92 eyes of 92 patients with RRD. All eyes underwent PPV with air tamponade and a follow-up of at least 6 months. Initial anatomical success was defined as reattachment of the retina by a single operation. We performed univariate analysis to detect the presence of any difference between eyes with a successful initial reattachment and those that failed. We also performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess the influence of each preoperative factor on initial success. The rate of initial reattachment success was 93.5%. The percentage of retinal detachment involving the inferior quadrants in the initial success group was less than that in the initial failure group, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.043). There were no significant differences noted for other factors, such as symptom duration (P = 0.078) or location of retinal breaks (P = 0.065). Multiple logistic regression analysis using preoperative factors indicated that older age (odds ratio, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.82–0.97; P = 0.010) and non-involvement of inferior quadrants (odds ratio, 9.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.36–71.92; P = 0.023) were significantly associated with initial success. PPV combined with air may be an effective treatment for some simple RRDs (proliferative vitreoretinopathy [PVR] grade ≤ C1). Non-involvement of the inferior quadrants and older age at presentation are associated with a greater likelihood of anatomic success. The volume of air in the eye after surgery is also very important, which may also affect the reduction of retinal detachment.
Interaction within and between cortical networks subserving multisensory learning and its reorganization due to musical expertise
Authors: Paraskevopoulos Evangelos , Chalas Nikolas , Anagnostopoulou Alexandra , Bamidis Panagiotis D.
Published: May 2022

Recent advancements in the field of network science allow us to quantify inter-network information exchange and model the interaction within and between task-defined states of large-scale networks. Here, we modeled the inter- and intra- network interactions related to multisensory statistical learning. To this aim, we implemented a multifeatured statistical learning paradigm and measured evoked magnetoencephalographic responses to estimate task-defined state of functional connectivity based on cortical phase interaction. Each network state represented the whole-brain network processing modality-specific (auditory, visual and audiovisual) statistical learning irregularities embedded within a multisensory stimulation stream. The way by which domain-specific expertise re-organizes the interaction between the networks was investigated by a comparison of musicians and non-musicians. Between the modality-specific network states, the estimated connectivity quantified the characteristics of a supramodal mechanism supporting the identification of statistical irregularities that are compartmentalized and applied in the identification of uni-modal irregularities embedded within multisensory stimuli. Expertise-related re-organization was expressed by an increase of intra- and a decrease of inter-network connectivity, showing increased compartmentalization.
Pathogenic tau recruits wild-type tau into brain inclusions and induces gut degeneration in transgenic SPAM mice
Authors: Xia Yuxing , Prokop Stefan , Bell Brach M. , Gorion Kimberly-Marie M. , Croft Cara L. , Nasif Lith , Xu Guilian , Riffe Cara J. , Manaois Alyssa N. , Strang Kevin H. , Quintin Stephan S. , Paterno Giavanna , Tansey Malú Gámez , Borchelt David R. , Golde Todd E. , Giasson Benoit I.
Published: May 2022

Pathological tau inclusions are neuropathologic hallmarks of many neurodegenerative diseases. We generated and characterized a transgenic mouse model expressing pathogenic human tau with S320F and P301S aggregating mutations (SPAM) at transgene levels below endogenous mouse tau protein levels. This mouse model develops a predictable temporal progression of tau pathology in the brain with biochemical and ultrastructural properties akin to authentic tau inclusions. Surprisingly, pathogenic human tau extensively recruited endogenous mouse tau into insoluble aggregates. Despite the early onset and rapid progressive nature of tau pathology, major neuroinflammatory and transcriptional changes were only detectable at later time points. Moreover, tau SPAM mice are the first model to develop loss of enteric neurons due to tau accumulation resulting in a lethal phenotype. With moderate transgene expression, rapidly progressing tau pathology, and a highly predictable lethal phenotype, the tau SPAM model reveals new associations of tau neurotoxicity in the brain and intestinal tract.
Variants of beta-glucan polysaccharides downregulate autoimmune inflammation
Authors: Fahlquist-Hagert Cecilia , Sareila Outi , Rosendahl Sofia , Holmdahl Rikard
Published: May 2022

Common infections and polysaccharides, from bacteria and yeasts, could trigger psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and possibly rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of β-glucan polysaccharides in the effector phase of arthritis and as regulators of psoriasis and PsA-like symptoms in mice. Collagen antibody induced arthritis was studied as a model of RA and mannan-induced psoriasis (MIP) was used as model for psoriasis and PsA, using mice with a mutation of Ncf1 on the B10.Q genetic background, making them highly disease susceptible. The mice were exposed to three common variants: 1,6-β-glucan, 1,3-β-glucan and 1,3-1,6-β-glucan. These β-glucans down-regulated disease in mice if administered simultaneously, before or after mannan. Interestingly, the protection was macrophage mannose receptor (MMR/CD206) dependent with a more pronounced protection long-term than short-term. The number of resident peritoneal macrophages decreased after in vivo challenge with β-glucan and mannan compared to mannan alone, whereas the numbers of infiltrating cells correspondingly increased, further indicating macrophages as key for β-glucan mediated regulation. At the doses tested, β-glucans could not induce arthritis, psoriasis or PsA in wild-type mice. However, β-glucans could ameliorate the PsA-like symptoms representing a new unforeseen possibility to explore for future clinical treatment.
The early-life exposome modulates the effect of polymorphic inversions on DNA methylation
Authors: Carreras-Gallo Natàlia , Cáceres Alejandro , Balagué-Dobón Laura , Ruiz-Arenas Carlos , Andrusaityte Sandra , Carracedo Ángel , Casas Maribel , Chatzi Leda , Grazuleviciene Regina , Gutzkow Kristine Bjerve , Lepeule Johanna , Maitre Léa , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark , Slama Remy , Stratakis Nikos , Thomsen Cathrine , Urquiza Jose , Wright John , Yang Tiffany , Escaramís Geòrgia , Bustamante Mariona , Vrijheid Martine , Pérez-Jurado Luis A. , González Juan R.
Published: May 2022

Polymorphic genomic inversions are chromosomal variants with intrinsic variability that play important roles in evolution, environmental adaptation, and complex traits. We investigated the DNA methylation patterns of three common human inversions, at 8p23.1, 16p11.2, and 17q21.31 in 1,009 blood samples from children from the Human Early Life Exposome (HELIX) project and in 39 prenatal heart tissue samples. We found inversion-state specific methylation patterns within and nearby flanking each inversion region in both datasets. Additionally, numerous inversion-exposure interactions on methylation levels were identified from early-life exposome data comprising 64 exposures. For instance, children homozygous at inv-8p23.1 and higher meat intake were more susceptible to TDH hypermethylation (P = 3.8 × 10−22); being the inversion, exposure, and gene known risk factors for adult obesity. Inv-8p23.1 associated hypermethylation of GATA4 was also detected across numerous exposures. Our data suggests that the pleiotropic influence of inversions during development and lifetime could be substantially mediated by allele-specific methylation patterns which can be modulated by the exposome.
Extremely low-frequency pulses of faint magnetic field induce mitophagy to rejuvenate mitochondria
Authors: Toda Takuro , Ito Mikako , Takeda Jun-ichi , Masuda Akio , Mino Hiroyuki , Hattori Nobutaka , Mohri Kaneo , Ohno Kinji
Published: May 2022

Humans are frequently exposed to time-varying and static weak magnetic fields (WMF). However, the effects of faint magnetic fields, weaker than the geomagnetic field, have been scarcely reported. Here we show that extremely low-frequency (ELF)-WMF, comprised of serial pulses of 10 µT intensity at 1–8 Hz, which is three or more times weaker than the geomagnetic field, reduces mitochondrial mass to 70% and the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complex II activity to 88%. Chemical inhibition of electron flux through the mitochondrial ETC complex II nullifies the effect of ELF-WMF. Suppression of ETC complex II subsequently induces mitophagy by translocating parkin and PINK1 to the mitochondria and by recruiting LC3-II. Thereafter, mitophagy induces PGC-1α-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis to rejuvenate mitochondria. The lack of PINK1 negates the effect of ELF-WMF. Thus, ELF-WMF may be applicable for the treatment of human diseases that exhibit compromised mitochondrial homeostasis, such as Parkinson’s disease.
Electron acceleration from transparent targets irradiated by ultra-intense helical laser beams
Authors: Blackman David R. , Shi Yin , Klein Sallee R. , Cernaianu Mihail , Doria Domenico , Ghenuche Petru , Arefiev Alexey
Published: May 2022

The concept of electron acceleration by a laser beam in vacuum is attractive due to its seeming simplicity, but its implementation has been elusive, as it requires efficient electron injection into the beam and a mechanism for counteracting transverse expulsion. Electron injection during laser reflection off a plasma mirror is a promising mechanism, but it is sensitive to the plasma density gradient that is hard to control. We get around this sensitivity by utilizing volumetric injection that takes place when a helical laser beam traverses a low-density target. The electron retention is achieved by choosing the helicity, such that the transverse field profiles are hollow while the longitudinal fields are peaked on central axis. We demonstrate using three-dimensional simulations that a 3 PW helical laser can generate a 50 pC low-divergence electron beam with a maximum energy of 1.5 GeV. The unique features of the beam are short acceleration distance (∼100 μm), compact transverse size, high areal density, and electron bunching (∼100 as bunch duration).
Single extreme storm sequence can offset decades of shoreline retreat projected to result from sea-level rise
Authors: Harley Mitchell D. , Masselink Gerd , Ruiz de Alegría-Arzaburu Amaia , Valiente Nieves G. , Scott Tim
Published: May 2022

Extreme storms cause extensive beach-dune erosion and are typically considered to enhance coastal erosion due to sea-level rise. However, extreme storms can also have a positive contribution to the nearshore sediment budget by exchanging sediment between the lower and upper shoreface and/or between adjacent headlands, potentially mitigating some adverse sea-level rise impacts. Here we use three high-resolution morphological datasets of extreme storm-recovery sequences from Australia, the UK and Mexico to quantify the nearshore sediment budget and relate these episodic volume changes to long-term coastal projections. We show that sediment gains over the upper shoreface were large (59–140 m3/m) and sufficient to theoretically offset decades of projected shoreline retreat due to sea-level rise, even for a high-end greenhouse gas emissions scenario (SSP5-8.5). We conclude that increased confidence in shoreline projections relies fundamentally on a robust quantitative understanding of the sediment budget, including any major short-term sediment contribution by extreme storms.
Patient-reported outcomes and neurotoxicity markers in patients treated with bispecific LV20.19 CAR T cell therapy
Authors: Knight Jennifer M. , Szabo Aniko , Arapi Igli , Wu Ruizhe , Emmrich Amanda , Hackett Edward , Sauber Garrett , Yim Sharon , Johnson Bryon , Hari Parameswaran , Schneider Dina , Dropulic Boro , Cusatis Rachel N. , Cole Steve W. , Hillard Cecilia J. , Shah Nirav N.
Published: May 2022

Background

With the rising number of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell treated patients, it is increasingly important to understand the treatment’s impact on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and, ideally, identify biomarkers of central nervous system (CNS) adverse effects.

Methods

The purpose of this exploratory study was to assess short-term PROs and serum kynurenine metabolites for associated neurotoxicity among patients treated in an anti-CD20, anti-CD19 (LV20.19) CAR T cell phase I clinical trial (NCT03019055). Fifteen CAR T treated patients from the parent trial provided serum samples and self-report surveys 15 days before and 14, 28, and 90 days after treatment.

Results

Blood kynurenine concentrations increased over time in patients with evidence of neurotoxicity (p = 0.004) and were increased in self-reported depression (r = 0.52, p = 0.002). Depression improved after CAR T infusion (p = 0.035). Elevated 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3HAA) concentrations prior to cell infusion were also predictive of neurotoxicity onset (p = 0.031), suggesting it is a biomarker of neurotoxicity following CAR T cell therapy.

Conclusions

Elevated levels of kynurenine pathway metabolites among CAR T cell recipients are associated with depressed mood and neurotoxicity. Findings from this exploratory study are preliminary and warrant validation in a larger cohort.
Pre-diagnostic trajectories of lymphocytosis predict time to treatment and death in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Andersen Michael Asger , Grand Mia Klinten , Brieghel Christian , Siersma Volkert , Andersen Christen Lykkegaard , Niemann Carsten Utoft
Published: May 2022

Background

The dynamics of pre-diagnostic lymphocytosis in patients with ensuing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) need to be explored as a better understanding of disease progression may improve treatment options and even lead to disease avoidance approaches. Our aim was to investigate the development of lymphocytosis prior to diagnosis in a population-based cohort of patients with CLL and to assess the prognostic information in these pre-diagnostic measurements.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with CLL in the Greater Copenhagen area between 2008 and 2016 were included in the study. Pre-diagnostic blood test results were obtained from the Copenhagen Primary Care Laboratory Database encompassing all blood tests requested by Copenhagen general practitioners. Using pre-diagnostic measurements, we developed a model to assess the prognosis following diagnosis. Our model accounts for known prognostic factors and corresponds to lymphocyte dynamics after diagnosis.

Results

We explore trajectories of lymphocytosis, associated with known recurrent mutations. We show that the pre-diagnostic trajectories are an independent predictor of time to treatment. The implementation of pre-diagnostic lymphocytosis slope groups improved the model predictions (compared to CLL-IPI alone) for treatment throughout the period. The model can manage the heterogeneous data that are to be expected from the real-world setting and adds further prognostic information.

Conclusions

Our findings further knowledge of the development of CLL and may eventually make prophylactic measures possible.
Poly-antioxidants for enhanced anti-miR-155 delivery and synergistic therapy of metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Qingyan , Huang Ying , Yang Ruoxi , Mu Junmei , Zhou Zhanwei , Sun Minjie
Published: May 2022

Poly-antioxidant based carriers were fabricated for anti-miR-155 delivery and ROS scavenging to achieve synergistic therapy of metastatic breast cancer.
O3–NOy photochemistry in boundary layer polluted plumes: insights from the MEGAPOLI (Paris), ChArMEx/SAFMED (North West Mediterranean) and DACCIWA (southern West Africa) aircraft campaigns
Authors: Thera B. , Dominutti P. , Colomb A. , Michoud V. , Doussin J.-F. , Beekmann M. , Dulac F. , Sartelet K. , Borbon A.
Published: May 2022

The ozone–NOy photochemistry is investigated in contrasting polluted plumes explored with the Safire ATR 42 research aircraft during three summer field campaigns in the megacity Paris, the North West Mediterranean basin and southern West Africa.
Reaction surfaces and interfaces of metal sulfides: cryo-XPS meets HAXPES and DFT
Authors: Mikhlin Yuri , Nasluzov Vladimir , Tomashevich Yevgeny , Vorobyev Sergey , Romanchenko Alexander , Likhatski Maxim
Published: May 2022

Cryo-XPS study of fast-frozen particulate PbS and ZnS in aqueous solutions allows the minimizing of the distortions of the reaction interfaces.
Chimonanthus salicifolius attenuated vascular remodeling by alleviating endoplasmic reticulum stress in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqin , Xu Pingcui , Lin Bingfeng , Deng Xuehui , Zhu Jiazhen , Chen Xinyi , Liu Shuang , Li Rui , Wang Nani , Chen Liping
Published: May 2022

Chimonanthus salicifolius (CS), the leaves of Chimonanthus salicifolius S. Y. Hu., is an effective tea to prevent and treat hypertension in China.
Study of polyphenols fromCaesalpinia paraguariensisas α-glucosidase inhibitors: kinetics and structure–activity relationship
Authors: Sgariglia Melina A. , Garibotto Francisco M. , Soberón José R. , Angelina Emilio L. , Andujar Sebastián A. , Vattuone Marta A.
Published: May 2022

Ellagic derivatives isolated from Caesalpinia paraguariensis bark: (1) ellagic acid, (2) 3-O-methylellagic, (3) 3,3′-O-dimethylellagic acid, and (4) 3,3′-O-dimethylellagic-4-O-β-d-xylopyranoside and their binding modes on α-glucosidase.
A nanomedicine enables synergistic chemo/photodynamic therapy for pancreatic cancer treatment
Authors: Zhu Liwei , Lin Shanmeng , Cui Wenqiang , Xu Youwei , Wang Liang , Wang Zhaohan , Yuan Shuguang , Zhang Yichuan , Fan Yingfang , Geng Jin
Published: May 2022

A nanomedicine platform was developed by the self-assembly of a cleavable prodrug with a photosensitizer to treat pancreatic cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world.
Enantioselective transannular reactions by palladium-catalysed conjugate addition of aryl boronic acids
Authors: Prieto Liher , Rodríguez Verónica , Vicario Jose L. , Reyes Efraim , Hornillos Valentín
Published: May 2022

A palladium-catalyzed asymmeric conjugate addition of aryl boronic acids to medium-sized cycloalkenones followed by intramolecular aldol trapping is reported.
Palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling of unreactive C(sp3)–H bonds with azole C(sp2)–H bonds by using bromide as a traceless directing group
Authors: Chen Yan-Zhen , Fu Jian-Guo , Ji Xiao-Ming , Zhang Shu-Sheng , Feng Chen-Guo
Published: May 2022

A palladium-catalyzed intermolecular cross-coupling of unreactive C(sp3)–H bonds and azole C(sp2)–H bonds with bromide as a traceless directing group is described.
Cooperative non-covalent interactions and synthetic feed as driving forces to structural diversity within organic co-crystals containing isosteric perhalobenzenes
Authors: Bosch Eric , Ferrence Gregory M. , Powell Conrad J. , Unruh Daniel K. , Krueger Herman R. , Groeneman Ryan H.
Published: May 2022

Structural diversity is achieved in a series of halogen-bonded co-crystals based upon cooperative non-covalent interactions and the synthetic feed of the components.
The steps of thermal treatment of Na-magadiite: a computational study using ab initio DFT calculations
Authors: Silva Bruna Nádia N. , Pastore Heloise O. , Leitão Alexandre A.
Published: May 2022

This work provides a detailed description of the thermal steps of Na-magadiite through DFT calculations. Dehydration occurred in two parts and a simulated intermediate model was promising to describe the final spontaneous steps.
Sensitization of lanthanide complexes through direct spin-forbidden singlet → triplet excitation
Authors: Bispo-Jr Airton G. , Mazali Italo O. , Sigoli Fernando A.
Published: May 2022

The direct S0 → Tn excitation transition in LnIII complexes is investigated, which is favored by heavy LnIII and halogen bonded to ligands. YbIII complex visible-shifted excitation and NIR emission are adequate for luminescent solar concentrators.
A novel g-C3N4 nanosheet/Ag3PO4/α-Bi2O3 ternary dual Z-scheme heterojunction with increased light absorption and expanded specific surface area for efficient photocatalytic removal of TC
Authors: Zhang Zongyu , Xue Xiuling , Chen Xiaoyi
Published: May 2022

A novel ternary dual Z-scheme photocatalyst g-C3N4 nanosheet/Ag3PO4/α-Bi2O3 was designed via an in situ deposition and hydrothermal–calcination method with an excellent photocatalytic performance toward TC degradation.
Dynamic shock wave driven simultaneous crystallographic and molecular switching between α-Fe2O3 and Fe3O4 nanoparticles – a new finding
Authors: Sivakumar A. , Rita A. , Sahaya Jude Dhas S. , Reddy K. P. J. , Kumar Raju Suresh , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Chakraborty Shubhadip , Moovendaran K. , Sridhar Jayavel , Martin Britto Dhas S. A.
Published: May 2022

We present the experimentally observed solid-state molecular level switchable phase transitions of nanocrystalline iron oxide materials {α-Fe2O3 (R-3c) to Fe3O4 (Fd-3m) and Fe3O4 (Fd-3m) to α-Fe2O3 (R-3c)} under dynamic shock wave loaded conditions.
Ir-Doped Co(OH)2 nanosheets as an efficient electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Gao Yihao , Bai Jie , Zhou Tianning , Gong Yaqiong
Published: May 2022

The synthesized Ir–Co(OH)2@ZIF-67/NF electrode exhibited distinguished electrocatalytic performance toward the OER in 1 M KOH.
Elucidating morphological effects in membrane mineral fouling using real-time particle imaging and impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Nnebuo Chidiebere S. , Hambsch Denise , Nir Oded
Published: May 2022

Mineral fouling is a major hindrance to high recovery effluent nanofiltration, with calcium phosphate (Ca-P) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) the most prevalent mineral foulants.
The compound enzymatic hydrolysate of Neoporphyra haitanensis improved hyperglycemia and regulated the gut microbiome in high-fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Cheng Xiaojie , Jiang Jiali , Li Chunjun , Xue Changhu , Kong Biao , Chang Yaoguang , Tang Qingjuan
Published: May 2022

CEH may effectively protect mice against diet-induced hyperglycemia and microbial dysbiosis.
Anti-osteoporosis effects and regulatory mechanism of Lindera aggregata based on network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Wang Furong , Rong Pengze , Wang Juan , Yu Xiao , Wang Na , Wang Shengyu , Xue Zikai , Chen Junnan , Meng Wenlong , Peng Xin
Published: May 2022

Osteoporosis (OP) is characterized by the flaccidity of bones or bone bi-disease caused by kidney deficiency.
High-throughput and data driven strategies for the design of deep-eutectic solvent electrolytes
Authors: Rodriguez Jaime , Politi Maria , Adler Stuart , Beck David , Pozzo Lilo
Published: May 2022

High-throughput experimental workflows, coupled with data-driven strategies allow for rapid formulation, synthesis, and characterization of deep eutectic solvents. Embracing this type of workflow allows for rapid investigation on multiparameter material spaces.
Concave octopus-like PtCu nanoframe mediated photo-electro Fenton catalysis for fast organic dyestuff elimination
Authors: Yan Yangyang , Cheng Shaowen , Zhou Ping , Li Heying , Liu Xiaoran , Lin Manping , Xie Feihu , Zhang Keke , Zhang Yi , Zhang Chenyang , Zhao Shuang , Shi Jiahua , Li Jinghua
Published: May 2022

Pt atom mediates electrooxidation to generate H2O2, causing a series of Fenton reactions triggered by Cu atom, for further elimination of dyestuff pollutions. The electrocatalytic process provides an acidic pH in solution, a suitable pH range for Fenton catalytic reaction.
Strain-induced multigap superconductivity in electrene Mo2N: a first principles study
Authors: Pereira Zenner S. , Faccin Giovani M. , da Silva E. Z.
Published: May 2022

Mo2N single layer is shown to be an electride and superconductor. The simulation points to Tc = 24.7 K, a record high transition temperature for this class of material at ambient pressure. Tension induces multigap superconductivity.
Chirality-driven self-assembly: application toward renewable/exchangeable resin-immobilized catalysts
Authors: Menuey Elizabeth M. , Zhou John , Tian Shuyuan , Brenner Reid E. , Ren Zhaoyang , Hua Duy H. , Kilway Kathleen V. , Moteki Shin A.
Published: May 2022

Highly versatile renewable/exchangeable resin-immobilized catalysts was generated using a concept of chirality-driven self-assembly.
The synthetic versatility of fluoroiodomethane: recent applications as monofluoromethylation platform
Authors: Colella Marco , Musci Pantaleo , Andresini Michael , Spennacchio Mauro , Degennaro Leonardo , Luisi Renzo
Published: May 2022

This minireview covers the recent relevant literature updates on the use of CH2FI as readily available platform for monofluoromethylation strategies.