bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversible electrochemical oxidation of sulfur in ionic liquid for high-voltage Al−S batteries
Authors: Li Huan , Meng Rongwei , Guo Yong , Chen Biao , Jiao Yan , Ye Chao , Long Yu , Tadich Anton , Yang Quan-Hong , Jaroniec Mietek , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: September 2021

Sulfur is an important electrode material in metal−sulfur batteries. It is usually coupled with metal anodes and undergoes electrochemical reduction to form metal sulfides. Herein, we demonstrate, for the first time, the reversible sulfur oxidation process in AlCl3/carbamide ionic liquid, where sulfur is electrochemically oxidized by AlCl4− to form AlSCl7. The sulfur oxidation is: 1) highly reversible with an efficiency of ~94%; and 2) workable within a wide range of high potentials. As a result, the Al−S battery based on sulfur oxidation can be cycled steadily around ~1.8 V, which is the highest operation voltage in Al−S batteries. The study of sulfur oxidation process benefits the understanding of sulfur chemistry and provides a valuable inspiration for the design of other high-voltage metal−sulfur batteries, not limited to Al−S configurations.
Wells–Dawson phosphotungstates as mushroom tyrosinase inhibitors: a speciation study
Authors: Lampl Raphael , Breibeck Joscha , Gumerova Nadiia I. , Galanski Mathea Sophia , Rompel Annette
Published: September 2021

In order to elucidate the active polyoxotungstate (POT) species that inhibit fungal polyphenol oxidase (AbPPO4) in sodium citrate buffer at pH 6.8, four Wells–Dawson phosphotungstates [α/β-PV2WVI18O62]6− (intact form), [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− (monolacunary), [PV2WVI15O56]12− (trilacunary) and [H2PV2WVI12O48]12− (hexalacunary) were investigated. The speciation of the POT solutions under the dopachrome assay (50 mM Na-citrate buffer, pH 6.8; L-3,4−dihydroxyphenylalanine as a substrate) conditions were determined by 183W-NMR, 31P-NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The intact Wells–Dawson POT [α/β-PV2WVI18O62]6− shows partial (~ 69%) disintegration into the monolacunary [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− anion with moderate activity (Ki = 9.7 mM). The monolacunary [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− retains its structural integrity and exhibits the strongest inhibition of AbPPO4 (Ki = 6.5 mM). The trilacunary POT [PV2WVI15O56]12− rearranges to the more stable monolacunary [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− (~ 62%) accompanied by release of free phosphates and shows the weakest inhibition (Ki = 13.6 mM). The hexalacunary anion [H2PV2WVI12O48]12− undergoes time-dependent hydrolysis resulting in a mixture of [H2PV2WVI12O48]12−, [PV8WVI48O184]40−, [PV2WVI19O69(H2O)]14− and [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− which together leads to comparable inhibitory activity (Ki = 7.5 mM) after 48 h. For the solutions of [α/β-PV2WVI18O62]6−, [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− and [PV2WVI15O56]12− the inhibitory activity is correlated to the degree of their rearrangement to [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10−. The rearrangement of hexalacunary [H2PV2WVI12O48]12− into at least four POTs with a negligible amount of monolacunary anion interferes with the correlation of activity to the degree of their rearrangement to [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10−. The good inhibitory effect of the Wells–Dawson [α2-PV2WVI17O61]10− anion is explained by the low charge density of its protonated forms Hx[α2-PV2WVI17O61](10−x)− (x = 3 or 4) at pH 6.8.
A guide for the use of fNIRS in microcephaly associated to congenital Zika virus infection
Authors: Sato João Ricardo , Junior Claudinei Eduardo Biazoli , de Araújo Elidianne Layanne Medeiros , de Souza Rodrigues Júlia , Andrade Suellen Marinho
Published: September 2021

Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) is characterized by changes in cranial morphology associated with heterogeneous neurological manifestations and cognitive and behavioral impairments. In this syndrome, longitudinal neuroimaging could help clinicians to predict developmental trajectories of children and tailor treatment plans accordingly. However, regularly acquiring magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has several shortcomings besides cost, particularly those associated with childrens' clinical presentation as sensitivity to environmental stimuli. The indirect monitoring of local neural activity by non-invasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) technique can be a useful alternative for longitudinally accessing the brain function in children with CZS. In order to provide a common framework for advancing longitudinal neuroimaging assessment, we propose a principled guideline for fNIRS acquisition and analyses in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Based on our experience on collecting fNIRS data in children with CZS we emphasize the methodological challenges, such as clinical characteristics of the sample, desensitization, movement artifacts and environment control, as well as suggestions for tackling such challenges. Finally, metrics based on fNIRS can be associated with established clinical metrics, thereby opening possibilities for exploring this tool as a long-term predictor when assessing the effectiveness of treatments aimed at children with severe neurodevelopmental disorders.
Modeling and evaluation of causal factors in emergency responses to fire accidents involving oil storage system
Authors: Yuan Changfeng , Zhang Yulong , Wang Jiahui , Tong Yating
Published: September 2021

According to the statistics of 160 typical fire and explosion accidents in oil storage areas at home and abroad nearly 50 years, 122 of them occurred the secondary accidents in the emergency responses. Based on 122 accident cases, 21 causal factors leading to secondary accidents are summarized. In order to quantify the influencing degree of these causal factors on the accident consequences, a multiple linear regression model was established between them. In the modeling process, these factors are decomposed into the criterion layer, variable layer, and bottom layer. The improved analytic hierarchy process (IAHP) was used to establish the relationship between the bottom factors and variable factors, and the regression analysis method was used to establish the relational model between variable layer and criterion layer. For 122 cases of the secondary accidents, this study took the year as a statistical dimension, and obtained 40 groups of sample data. The first 34 groups of sample data were used to build the causal factors model, and the last 6 groups of sample data were tested the generalization ability of the model by using the established regression model combined with grey prediction model. The results show that the prediction ability of the established model was better than that of the grey prediction model alone. Moreover, the relative contribution and change trend of the causal factors were evaluated using the mutation progression method, and corresponding preventive countermeasures were proposed. It was found that human professional skills, knowledge and literacy, environmental issues, and firefighting facilities are the main influencing factors that lead to the secondary accidents. These three kinds of factors show a gradual improvement trend, and the existing prevention measures should be maintained and further improved. The problem of inherent objects or equipment factors has not been effectively improved and has a worsening trend, which is the focus of prevention in the future, and the prevention and control efforts need to be moderately increased. The research results have important guiding significance for understanding the quantitative influences of causal factors on the accident consequences, improving emergency response capabilities, reducing accident losses, and avoiding secondary accidents.
Using least angular regression to model the antibacterial potential of metronidazole complexes
Authors: Mehmood Tahir , Iqbal Mudassir , Rafique Bushra
Published: September 2021

Imidazole has anti-inflammatory, antituberculotic, antimicrobial, antimycotic, antiviral, and antitumor properties in the human body, to name a few. Metronidazole [1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole] is a widely used antiprotozoan and antibacterial medication. Using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the current study models the antibacterial activity of already synthesised Metronidazole (MTZ) complexes ($$MTZ-Benz$$

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) against E. coli, B. bronceptica, S. epidermidis, B. pumilus and S. aureus. To characterise the Metronidazole complexes for antibacterial activity against 05 microbes, the least angular regression and least absolute shrinkage selection operators were used. Asymmetric Least Squares was used to correct the spectrum baseline. Least angular regression outperforms cross-validated root mean square error in the fitted models. Using Least angular regression, influential wavelengths that explain the variation in antibacterial activity of Metronidazole complexes were identified and mapped against functional groups.
Spring arctic oscillation as a trigger of summer drought in Siberian subarctic over the past 1494 years
Authors: Churakova Sidorova Olga V. , Siegwolf Rolf T. W. , Fonti Marina V. , Vaganov Eugene A. , Saurer Matthias
Published: September 2021

Rapid changes in the hydrological and temperature regimes over the past decades at the northern latitudes enhance significantly permafrost degradation accelerating carbon release, increase the frequency of drought events and extensive wildfires. However, the mechanisms and dynamics driving drought events and their influence on Siberian forests are currently the subject of numerous research activities. Newly developed and annually resolved stable carbon and oxygen isotope chronologies of larch tree-ring cellulose (δ13Ccell and δ18Ocell) for the period 516–2009 CE allowed the reconstruction of July precipitation and Arctic Oscillation (AO) in May, respectively. Unprecedented drought events occurred towards twentieth–twenty-first centuries as indicated by the July precipitation reconstruction. Positive AO phases in May were most pronounced during the second part of the first millennium, but also increased in frequency in the modern period of the twentieth–twenty-first centuries. Negative AO phases are associated with cold anomalies and show a remarkable decrease in the nineteenth century caused by a series of major volcanic eruptions. Our findings help explaining the increased frequency of Siberian forest fires over the past decades in Central Siberia consistent with a reduction of summer precipitation, triggered by a positive phase of the Arctic Oscillation in May.
Interactions between microbial diversity and substrate chemistry determine the fate of carbon in soil
Authors: Raczka Nanette C. , Piñeiro Juan , Tfaily Malak M. , Chu Rosalie K. , Lipton Mary S. , Pasa-Tolic Ljiljana , Morrissey Ember , Brzostek Edward
Published: September 2021

Microbial decomposition drives the transformation of plant-derived substrates into microbial products that form stable soil organic matter (SOM). Recent theories have posited that decomposition depends on an interaction between SOM chemistry with microbial diversity and resulting function (e.g., enzymatic capabilities, growth rates). Here, we explicitly test these theories by coupling quantitative stable isotope probing and metabolomics to track the fate of 13C enriched substrates that vary in chemical composition as they are assimilated by microbes and transformed into new metabolic products in soil. We found that differences in forest nutrient economies (e.g., nutrient cycling, microbial competition) led to arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) soils harboring greater diversity of fungi and bacteria than ectomycorrhizal (ECM) soils. When incubated with 13C enriched substrates, substrate type drove shifts in which species were active decomposers and the abundance of metabolic products that were reduced or saturated in the highly diverse AM soils. The decomposition pathways were more static in the less diverse, ECM soil. Importantly, the majority of these shifts were driven by taxa only present in the AM soil suggesting a strong link between microbial identity and their ability to decompose and assimilate substrates. Collectively, these results highlight an important interaction between ecosystem-level processes and microbial diversity; whereby the identity and function of active decomposers impacts the composition of decomposition products that can form stable SOM.
Joint contributions of metacognition and self-beliefs to uncertainty-guided checking behavior
Authors: Baptista Axel , Maheu Maxime , Mallet Luc , N’Diaye Karim
Published: September 2021

Checking behavior is a natural and adaptive strategy for resolving uncertainty in everyday situations. Here, we aimed at investigating the psychological drivers of checking and its regulation by uncertainty, in non-clinical participants and controlled experimental settings. We found that the sensitivity of participants’ explicit confidence judgments to actual performance (explicit metacognition) predicted the extent to which their checking strategy was regulated by uncertainty. Yet, a more implicit measure of metacognition (derived from asking participants to opt between trials) did not contribute to the regulation of checking behavior. Meanwhile, how participants scaled on questionnaires eliciting self-beliefs such as self-confidence and self-reported obsessive–compulsive symptoms also predicted participants’ uncertainty-guided checking tendencies. Altogether, these findings demonstrate that checking behavior is likely the outcome of a core explicit metacognitive process operating at the scale of single decisions, while remaining influenced by general self-beliefs. Our findings are thus consistent with two mechanisms (micro vs. macro) through which this otherwise adaptive behavior could go awry in certain psychiatric disorders such as obsessive–compulsive disorder.
Fast data-driven learning of parallel MRI sampling patterns for large scale problems
Authors: Zibetti Marcelo V. W. , Herman Gabor T. , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: September 2021

In this study, a fast data-driven optimization approach, named bias-accelerated subset selection (BASS), is proposed for learning efficacious sampling patterns (SPs) with the purpose of reducing scan time in large-dimensional parallel MRI. BASS is applicable when Cartesian fully-sampled k-space measurements of specific anatomy are available for training and the reconstruction method for undersampled measurements is specified; such information is used to define the efficacy of any SP for recovering the values at the non-sampled k-space points. BASS produces a sequence of SPs with the aim of finding one of a specified size with (near) optimal efficacy. BASS was tested with five reconstruction methods for parallel MRI based on low-rankness and sparsity that allow a free choice of the SP. Three datasets were used for testing, two of high-resolution brain images ($$\text {T}_{2}$$T2-weighted images and, respectively,$$\text {T}_{1\rho }$$T1ρ-weighted images) and another of knee images for quantitative mapping of the cartilage. The proposed approach has low computational cost and fast convergence; in the tested cases it obtained SPs up to 50 times faster than the currently best greedy approach. Reconstruction quality increased by up to 45% over that provided by variable density and Poisson disk SPs, for the same scan time. Optionally, the scan time can be nearly halved without loss of reconstruction quality. Quantitative MRI and prospective accelerated MRI results show improvements. Compared with greedy approaches, BASS rapidly learns effective SPs for various reconstruction methods, using larger SPs and larger datasets; enabling better selection of sampling-reconstruction pairs for specific MRI problems.
Rare and low-frequency exonic variants and gene-by-smoking interactions in pulmonary function
Authors: Yang Tianzhong , Jackson Victoria E. , Smith Albert V. , Chen Han , Bartz Traci M. , Sitlani Colleen M. , Psaty Bruce M. , Gharib Sina A. , O’Connor George T. , Dupuis Josée , Xu Jiayi , Lohman Kurt , Liu Yongmei , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Cassano Patricia A. , Flexeder Claudia , Gieger Christian , Karrasch Stefan , Peters Annette , Schulz Holger , Harris Sarah E. , Starr John M. , Deary Ian J. , Manichaikul Ani , Oelsner Elizabeth C. , Barr R. G. , Taylor Kent D. , Rich Stephen S. , Bonten Tobias N. , Mook-Kanamori Dennis O. , Noordam Raymond , Li-Gao Ruifang , Jarvelin Marjo-Riitta , Wielscher Matthias , Terzikhan Natalie , Lahousse Lies , Brusselle Guy , Weiss Stefan , Ewert Ralf , Gläser Sven , Homuth Georg , Shrine Nick , Hall Ian P. , Tobin Martin , London Stephanie J. , Wei Peng , Morrison Alanna C.
Published: September 2021

Genome-wide association studies have identified numerous common genetic variants associated with spirometric measures of pulmonary function, including forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity, and their ratio. However, variants with lower minor allele frequencies are less explored. We conducted a large-scale gene-smoking interaction meta-analysis on exonic rare and low-frequency variants involving 44,429 individuals of European ancestry in the discovery stage and sought replication in the UK BiLEVE study with 45,133 European ancestry samples and UK Biobank study with 59,478 samples. We leveraged data on cigarette smoking, the major environmental risk factor for reduced lung function, by testing gene-by-smoking interaction effects only and simultaneously testing the genetic main effects and interaction effects. The most statistically significant signal that replicated was a previously reported low-frequency signal in GPR126, distinct from common variant associations in this gene. Although only nominal replication was obtained for a top rare variant signal rs142935352 in one of the two studies, interaction and joint tests for current smoking and PDE3B were significantly associated with FEV1. This study investigates the utility of assessing gene-by-smoking interactions and underscores their effects on potential pulmonary function.
Mechanical analysis of non-Newtonian nanofluid past a thin needle with dipole effect and entropic characteristics
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad , Khan Noor Saeed , Kumam Poom
Published: September 2021

The study concerns with the mechanical characteristics of heat and mass transfer flow of a second grade nanofluid as well as gyrotatic microorganism motion past a thin needle with dipole effect, entropy generation, thermal radiation, Arrhenius activation energy and binar chemical reaction. The governing equations and boundary conditions are simplified by the use of suitable similarity transformations. Homotopy analysis method is implemented to obtain the series solution of non-linear ordinary differential equations. Physical behaviors of heat and mass transfer flow with gyrotatic microorganisms and entropy generation are investigated through the embedded parameters. The nanofluid velocity is enhanced for higher values of the ferromagnetic parameter, local Grashof number, bioconvection Rayleigh number and radiation parameter. The Reynolds number, radiation parameter and Eckert number decrease the nanofluid temperature. The entropy generation is increased with the enhancement of radiation parameter, Eckert number, Lewis number, temperature difference parameter, dimensionless constant parameter, Curie temperature, Prandtl number and concentration difference parameter.
A random-walk-based epidemiological model
Authors: Chu Andrew , Huber Greg , McGeever Aaron , Veytsman Boris , Yllanes David
Published: September 2021

Random walkers on a two-dimensional square lattice are used to explore the spatio-temporal growth of an epidemic. We have found that a simple random-walk system generates non-trivial dynamics compared with traditional well-mixed models. Phase diagrams characterizing the long-term behaviors of the epidemics are calculated numerically. The functional dependence of the basic reproductive number $$R_{0}$$

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on the model’s defining parameters reveals the role of spatial fluctuations and leads to a novel expression for $$R_{0}$$

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. Special attention is given to simulations of inter-regional transmission of the contagion. The scaling of the epidemic with respect to space and time scales is studied in detail in the critical region, which is shown to be compatible with the directed-percolation universality class.
Controlling for human population stratification in rare variant association studies
Authors: Bouaziz Matthieu , Mullaert Jimmy , Bigio Benedetta , Seeleuthner Yoann , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Alcais Alexandre , Abel Laurent , Cobat Aurélie
Published: September 2021

Population stratification is a confounder of genetic association studies. In analyses of rare variants, corrections based on principal components (PCs) and linear mixed models (LMMs) yield conflicting conclusions. Studies evaluating these approaches generally focused on limited types of structure and large sample sizes. We investigated the properties of several correction methods through a large simulation study using real exome data, and several within- and between-continent stratification scenarios. We considered different sample sizes, with situations including as few as 50 cases, to account for the analysis of rare disorders. Large samples showed that accounting for stratification was more difficult with a continental than with a worldwide structure. When considering a sample of 50 cases, an inflation of type-I-errors was observed with PCs for small numbers of controls (≤ 100), and with LMMs for large numbers of controls (≥ 1000). We also tested a novel local permutation method (LocPerm), which maintained a correct type-I-error in all situations. Powers were equivalent for all approaches pointing out that the key issue is to properly control type-I-errors. Finally, we found that power of analyses including small numbers of cases can be increased, by adding a large panel of external controls, provided an appropriate stratification correction was used.
Moringa oleifera seeds-removed ripened pods as alternative for papersheet production: antimicrobial activity and their phytoconstituents profile using HPLC
Authors: Salem Mohamed Z. M. , Ali Hayssam M. , Akrami Mohammad
Published: September 2021

In the present study, and for the waste valorization,Moringa oleiferaseeds-removed ripened pods (SRRP) were used for papersheet production and for the extraction of bioactive compounds. Fibers were characterized by SEM–EDX patterns, while the phytoconstituents in ethanol extract was analyzed by HPLC. The inhibition percentage of fungal mycelial growth (IFMG) of the treatedMelia azedarachwood withM. oleiferaSRRP extract at the concentrations of 10,000, 20,000, and 30,000 µg/mL against the growth ofRhizoctonia solaniandFusarium culmorumwas calculated and compared with fluconazole (25 µg). The produced papersheet was treated with the ethanol extract (4000, 2000, and 1000 µg/mL) and assayed for its antibacterial activity againstAgrobacterium tumefaciens,Erwinia amylovora, andPectobacterium atrosepticumby measuring the inhibition zones and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). According to chemical analysis ofM. oleiferaSRRP, benzene:alcohol extractives, holocellulose, lignin, and ash contents were 7.56, 64.94, 25.66 and 1.53%, respectively, while for the produced unbleached pulp, the screen pulp yield and the Kappa number were 39% and 25, respectively. The produced papersheet showed tensile index, tear index, burst index, and double fold number values of 58.8 N m/g, 3.38 mN m2/g, 3.86 kPa m2/g, and 10.66, respectively. SEM examination showed that the average fiber diameter was 16.39 µm, and the mass average of for elemental composition of C and O by EDX were, 44.21%, and 55.79%, respectively. The main phytoconstituents in the extract (mg/100 g extract) by HPLC were vanillic acid (5053.49), benzoic acid (262.98), naringenin (133.02), chlorogenic acid (66.16), and myricetin (56.27). After 14 days of incubation,M. oleiferaSRRP extract-wood treated showed good IFMG againstR. solani(36.88%) andF. culmorum(51.66%) compared to fluconazole, where it observed 42.96% and 53.70%, respectively. Moderate to significant antibacterial activity was found, where the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were 500, 650, and 250 µg/mL against the growth ofA. tumefaciens,E. amylovora, andP. atrosepticumrespectively, which were lower than the positive control used (Tobramycin 10 µg/disc). In conclusion,M. oleiferaSRRP showed promising properties as a raw material for pulp and paper production as well as for the extraction of bioactive compounds.
Visual explanations from spiking neural networks using inter-spike intervals
Authors: Kim Youngeun , Panda Priyadarshini
Published: September 2021

By emulating biological features in brain, Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) offer an energy-efficient alternative to conventional deep learning. To make SNNs ubiquitous, a ‘visual explanation’ technique for analysing and explaining the internal spike behavior of such temporal deep SNNs is crucial. Explaining SNNs visually will make the network more transparent giving the end-user a tool to understand how SNNs make temporal predictions and why they make a certain decision. In this paper, we propose a bio-plausible visual explanation tool for SNNs, called Spike Activation Map (SAM). SAM yields a heatmap (i.e., localization map) corresponding to each time-step of input data by highlighting neurons with short inter-spike interval activity. Interestingly, without the use of gradients and ground truth, SAM produces a temporal localization map highlighting the region of interest in an image attributed to an SNN’s prediction at each time-step. Overall, SAM outsets the beginning of a new research area ‘explainable neuromorphic computing’ that will ultimately allow end-users to establish appropriate trust in predictions from SNNs.
Isolation and characterization of a lytic bacteriophage against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sharma Sonika , Datta Sibnarayan , Chatterjee Soumya , Dutta Moumita , Samanta Jhuma , Vairale Mohan G. , Gupta Rajeev , Veer Vijay , Dwivedi Sanjai K.
Published: September 2021

In recent years, the use of bacteriophages (or 'phages') against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa has drawn considerable attention, globally. In this work, we report the isolation and detailed characterization of a highly lytic Pseudomonasphage DRL-P1 isolated from wastewater. Under TEM, DRL-P1 appeared as a member of the phage family Myoviridae. DRL-P1 featured rapid adsorption (~ 5 min), short-latency (~ 30 min), and large burst size (~ 100 PFU per infected cell). DRL-P1 can withstand a wide temperature range (4 °C to 40 °C) and pH (5.0 to 10.0) conditions. The 66,243 bp DRL-P1 genome (MN564818) encodes at least 93 ORFs, of which 36 were functionally annotated based on homology with similar phage proteins available in the databases. Comparative analyses of related genomes suggest an independent evolutionary history and discrete taxonomic position of DRL-P1 within genus Pbunavirus. No toxin or antibiotic resistance genes was identified. DRL-P1 is tolerant to lyophilization and encapsulation techniques and retained lytic activity even after 18 months of storage. We also demonstrated decontaminating potentials of DRL-P1 in vitro, on an artificially contaminated cover-slip model. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first Pbunavirus to be reported from India. Our study suggests DRL-P1 as a potential candidate for various applications.
Prevalence of elevated serum fatty acid synthase in chronic limb-threatening ischemia
Authors: Tay Shirli , De Silva Gayan S. , Engel Connor M. , Harroun Nikolai , Penrose Amanda S. , Desai Kshitij A. , Yan Yan , Semenkovich Clay F. , Zayed Mohamed A.
Published: September 2021

There are currently no serum-based evaluations that can corroborate the severity of peripheral artery disease (PAD). In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the prevalence of elevated serum fatty acid synthase (cFAS) in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) and evaluated the accuracy of its use in detecting this condition. Preoperative fasting serum samples from 87 patients undergoing vascular intervention were collected between October 2014 and September 2016. Median age was 62 years, with 56 (64%) men, and 32 (37%) with CLTI. We found that elevated cFAS content (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.04–1.31), type 2 diabetes (T2D; OR 5.22; 95% CI 1.77–15.4), and smoking (OR 3.53; 95% CI 1.19–10.5) were independently associated with CLTI and could detect the presence of CLTI with 83% accuracy (95% CI 0.74–0.92). Furthermore, serum FAS content was positively correlated with FAS content in femoral artery plaque in patients with severe PAD ($${R}^{2}$$

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= 0.22; P =  0.023). Finally, significantly higher co-localization of FAS and ApoB were observed within lower extremity arterial media (P < .001). Our findings indicate that serum FAS content is a marker for disease severity in patients with PAD, independent of concomitant T2D and smoking, and may play a key role in FAS and ApoB peripheral plaque progression.
Prospective postmortem evaluation of 735 consecutive SARS-CoV-2-associated death cases
Authors: Fitzek Antonia , Schädler Julia , Dietz Eric , Ron Alexandra , Gerling Moritz , Kammal Anna L. , Lohner Larissa , Falck Carla , Möbius Dustin , Goebels Hanna , Gerberding Anna-Lina , Schröder Ann Sophie , Sperhake Jan-Peter , Klein Anke , Fröb Daniela , Mushumba Herbert , Wilmes Sandra , Anders Sven , Kniep Inga , Heinrich Fabian , Langenwalder Felicia , Meißner Kira , Lange Philine , Zapf Antonia , Püschel Klaus , Heinemann Axel , Glatzel Markus , Matschke Jakob , Aepfelbacher Martin , Lütgehetmann Marc , Steurer Stefan , Thorns Christoph , Edler Carolin , Ondruschka Benjamin
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global pandemic with significant mortality. Accurate information on the specific circumstances of death and whether patients died from or with SARS-CoV-2 is scarce. To distinguish COVID-19 from non-COVID-19 deaths, we performed a systematic review of 735 SARS-CoV-2-associated deaths in Hamburg, Germany, from March to December 2020, using conventional autopsy, ultrasound-guided minimally invasive autopsy, postmortem computed tomography and medical records. Statistical analyses including multiple logistic regression were used to compare both cohorts. 84.1% (n = 618) were classified as COVID-19 deaths, 6.4% (n = 47) as non-COVID-19 deaths, 9.5% (n = 70) remained unclear. Median age of COVID-19 deaths was 83.0 years, 54.4% were male. In the autopsy group (n = 283), the majority died of pneumonia and/or diffuse alveolar damage (73.6%; n = 187). Thromboses were found in 39.2% (n = 62/158 cases), pulmonary embolism in 22.1% (n = 56/253 cases). In 2020, annual mortality in Hamburg was about 5.5% higher than in the previous 20 years, of which 3.4% (n = 618) represented COVID-19 deaths. Our study highlights the need for mortality surveillance and postmortem examinations. The vast majority of individuals who died directly from SARS-CoV-2 infection were of advanced age and had multiple comorbidities.
Serum carcinoembryonic antigen elevation in benign lung diseases
Authors: Yang Yi , Xu Mingfang , Huang Huan , Jiang Xiaolin , Gong Kan , Liu Yun , Kuang Xunjie , Yang Xueqin
Published: September 2021

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is not only used to aid the diagnosis of lung cancer, but also help monitor recurrence and determine the prognosis of lung cancer as well as evaluate the therapeutic efficacy for lung cancer. However, studies have also shown that CEA is present at low levels in the serum of patients with benign lung diseases (BLD), which will interfere with the accurate judgment of the disease. Due to difference in sample size, detection methods, cutoff values and sources of BLD, the positive rate of CEA in BLD is different with different literature. Therefore, it is necessary to define CEA levels in patients of different BLD in a large sample study. 4796 patients with BLD were included in this study. The results showed that the CEA levels of 3.1% (149/4796) patients with BLD were elevated, with three cases exceeds 20 ng/mL (0.06%, 3/4796). The results from the literature showed that BLD had a mean positive rate of 5.99% (53/885) and only two cases had CEA above 20 ng/mL. The CEA elevations mainly distributed in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonitis and interstitial lung disease and significantly correlated with age of patients (OR 2.69, 95% CI 1.94–3.73, p < 0.001). Pulmonary tuberculosis (7/1311, 0.53%) had the lowest positive rate of CEA elevations while pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (6/27, 22.22%) had the highest positive rate. The majority of patients with abnormally elevated CEA levels had multiple underlying diseases, mainly diseases of the circulatory system (42.28% [63/149]), endocrine diseases (26.85% [40/149]), and respiratory or heart failure (24.16% [36/149]. In endocrine diseases, 87.5% (35/40) of patients had diabetes. In conclusion, CEA is present at a low positive rate in the serum of patients with BLD, but few exceed 20 ng/mL. For lung disease patients, if CEA levels rise, we should carry out comprehensive analysis of types of lung diseases, age of patients, and comorbid diseases.
Broad scale proteomic analysis of heat-destabilised symbiosis in the hard coral Acropora millepora
Authors: Petrou K. , Nunn B. L. , Padula M. P. , Miller D. J. , Nielsen D. A.
Published: September 2021

Coral reefs across the globe are threatened by warming oceans. The last few years have seen the worst mass coral bleaching events recorded, with more than one quarter of all reefs irreversibly impacted. Considering the widespread devastation, we need to increase our efforts to understanding the physiological and metabolic shifts underlying the breakdown of this important symbiotic ecosystem. Here, we investigated the proteome (PRIDE accession # PXD011668) of both host and symbionts of the reef-building coralAcropora milleporaexposed to ambient (~ 28 °C) and elevated temperature (~ 32 °C for 2 days, following a five-day incremental increase) and explored associated biomolecular changes in the symbiont, with the aim of gaining new insights into the mechanisms underpinning the collapse of the coral symbiosis. We identified 1,230 unique proteins (774 host and 456 symbiont) in the control and thermally stressed corals, of which 107 significantly increased and 125 decreased in abundance under elevated temperature relative to the control. Proteins involved in oxidative stress and proteolysis constituted 29% of the host proteins that increased in abundance, with evidence of impairment to endoplasmic reticulum and cytoskeletal regulation proteins. In the symbiont, we detected a decrease in proteins responsible for photosynthesis and energy production (33% of proteins decreased in abundance), yet minimal signs of oxidative stress or proteolysis. Lipid stores increased > twofold despite reduction in photosynthesis, suggesting reduced translocation of carbon to the host. There were significant changes in proteins related to symbiotic state, including proteins linked to nitrogen metabolism in the host and the V-ATPase (-0.6 fold change) known to control symbiosome acidity. These results highlight key differences in host and symbiont proteomic adjustments under elevated temperature and identify two key proteins directly involved in bilateral nutrient exchange as potential indicators of symbiosis breakdown.
Mutual inhibition effect of sulfur compounds in the hydrodesulfurization of thiophene, 2-ethylthiophene and benzothiophene ternary mixture
Authors: Calin Catalina , Leostean Cristian , Trifoi Ancuța Roxana , Oprescu Elena-Emilia , Wiita Elizabeth , Banu Ionut , Doukeh Rami
Published: September 2021

The hydrodesulphurization of a model component and equimolar ternary mixture of thiophene, 2-ethylthiophene and benzothiophene over sulphided CoMo/γ-Al2O3 and CoMo/γ-Al2O3-Nb2O5 catalysts were investigated in a fixed bed flow reactor. The catalysts were prepared by incipient wetness impregnation method and characterized by textural characteristics, total acidity and chemical species present on the catalysts surface. The characterization results showed that both CoMo/γ-Al2O3-Nb2O5 and sulphided CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalysts exhibit a mesoporous structure with cylindrical pores open at both ends, evidenced by the IV type adsorption–desorption isotherm with a H1 hysteresis loop and have an average pore diameter between 3 and 4 nm. The chemical species present on the catalysts surface evaluated by XPS indicated that Co2+ and Mo4+ species are present in the sulfide form on both catalysts surfaces. In addition, there are also found oxidic species arising from incomplete reduction and sulphidation. The presence of niobium oxide in the catalytic support had a positive effect in leading to higher specific surface area (170 m2/g) and total acidity (0.421 meq/g) compared with CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst (140 m2/g and 0.283 meq/g) respectively. The evaluation results from the hydrodesulfurization showed that CoMo/γ-Al2O3-Nb2O5 catalyst had a higher activity in hydrodesulphurization process of thiophene, 2-ethylthiophene and benzothiophene. The CoMo/γ-Al2O3-Nb2O5 catalyst eliminated sulfur from the single component feed (corresponding to 2380 ppm S) and reduced below 10 ppm, for the feed consisting in the equimolar ternary mixture of thiophene, 2-ethylthiophene and benzothiophene (2380 ppm S). The reactivity of thiophen compounds was reduced due to competitive adsorption. It was observed that benzothiophene inhibits the transformation of thiophene and 2-ethylthiophene. A mutual inhibition effect between sulfur compounds was also observed when thiophene, 2-ethylthiophene and benzothiophene were combined and tested over the CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst. The inhibition effect had a lower intensity by introducing Nb2O5 in the catalyst support.
Optimizing thermocouple’s ZT through design innovation
Authors: Zhang Tinggang
Published: September 2021

This work demonstrates that in parallel with the one existed at high doping concentration, there also exists an optimal combination of the transport properties of a thermoelectric material at low doping concentration as the curve of the relation between electrical conductivity and doping concentration is rigidly shifted toward that direction without disturbing the Seebeck coefficient and the thermal conductivity. Based on this finding, a new thermocouple design that uses low doping legs and high doping semiconductors as the external carrier injectors surrounding the legs is developed. The analytical model developed for the new thermocouple indicated that its efficiency and power output could be more than tripled as compared to those of the original design. A single thermocouple made of Silicon semiconductors was simulated numerically using different sets of input parameters. The results showed that the density of the externally injected carriers played a significant role in enhancing the thermocouple’s efficiency and power output.
Altered microRNA and mRNA profiles during heart failure in the human sinoatrial node
Authors: Li Ning , Artiga Esthela , Kalyanasundaram Anuradha , Hansen Brian J. , Webb Amy , Pietrzak Maciej , Biesiadecki Brandon , Whitson Bryan , Mokadam Nahush A. , Janssen Paul M. L. , Hummel John D. , Mohler Peter J. , Dobrzynski Halina , Fedorov Vadim V.
Published: September 2021

Heart failure (HF) is frequently accompanied with the sinoatrial node (SAN) dysfunction, which causes tachy-brady arrhythmias and increased mortality. MicroRNA (miR) alterations are associated with HF progression. However, the transcriptome of HF human SAN, and its role in HF-associated remodeling of ion channels, transporters, and receptors responsible for SAN automaticity and conduction impairments is unknown. We conducted comprehensive high-throughput transcriptomic analysis of pure human SAN primary pacemaker tissue and neighboring right atrial tissue from human transplanted HF hearts (n = 10) and non-failing (nHF) donor hearts (n = 9), using next-generation sequencing. Overall, 47 miRs and 832 mRNAs related to multiple signaling pathways, including cardiac diseases, tachy-brady arrhythmias and fibrosis, were significantly altered in HF SAN. Of the altered miRs, 27 are predicted to regulate mRNAs of major ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors which are involved in SAN automaticity (e.g. HCN1, HCN4, SLC8A1) and intranodal conduction (e.g. SCN5A, SCN8A) or both (e.g. KCNJ3, KCNJ5). Luciferase reporter assays were used to validate interactions of miRs with predicted mRNA targets. In conclusion, our study provides a profile of altered miRs in HF human SAN, and a novel transcriptome blueprint to identify molecular targets for SAN dysfunction and arrhythmia treatments in HF.
Efficacy and tolerability of the hexanic extract of Serenoa repens compared to tamsulosin in moderate-severe LUTS-BPH patients
Authors: Alcaraz Antonio , Rodríguez-Antolín Alfredo , Carballido-Rodríguez Joaquín , Castro-Díaz David , Medina-Polo José , Fernández-Gómez Jesús M. , Ficarra Vincenzo , Palou Joan , Ponce de León Roca Javier , Angulo Javier C. , Esteban-Fuertes Manuel , Cózar-Olmo José M. , Pérez-León Noemí , Molero-García José M. , Fernández-Pro Ledesma Antonio , Brenes-Bermúdez Francisco J. , Manasanch José
Published: September 2021

In a subset analysis of data from a 6-month, multicenter, non-interventional study, we compared change in symptoms and quality of life (QoL), and treatment tolerability, in men with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) receiving tamsulosin (TAM, 0.4 mg/day) or the hexanic extract of Serenoa repens (HESr, 320 mg/day) as monotherapy. Symptoms and QoL were assessed using the IPSS and BII questionnaires, respectively. Patients in the treatment groups were matched using two statistical approaches (iterative and propensity score matching). Within the iterative matching approach, data was available from a total of 737 patients (353 TAM, 384 HESr). After 6 months, IPSS scores improved by a mean (SD) of 5.0 (4.3) points in the TAM group and 4.5 (4.7) points in the HESr group (p = 0.117, not significant). Improvements in QoL were equivalent in the two groups. TAM patients reported significantly more adverse effects than HESr patients (14.7% vs 2.1%; p < 0.001), particularly ejaculation dysfunction and orthostatic hypotension. These results show that HESr is a valid treatment option for men with moderate/severe LUTS/BPH; improvements in urinary symptoms and QoL were similar to those observed for tamsulosin, but with considerably fewer adverse effects.
Systems biology analysis of lung fibrosis-related genes in the bleomycin mouse model
Authors: Toren Dmitri , Yanai Hagai , Abu Taha Reem , Bunu Gabriela , Ursu Eugen , Ziesche Rolf , Tacutu Robi , Fraifeld Vadim E
Published: September 2021

Tissue fibrosis is a major driver of pathology in aging and is involved in numerous age-related diseases. The lungs are particularly susceptible to fibrotic pathology which is currently difficult to treat. The mouse bleomycin-induced fibrosis model was developed to investigate lung fibrosis and widely used over the years. However, a systematic analysis of the accumulated results has not been performed. We undertook a comprehensive data mining and subsequent manual curation, resulting in a collection of 213 genes (available at the TiRe database, www.tiredb.org), which when manipulated had a clear impact on bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Our meta-analysis highlights the age component in pulmonary fibrosis and strong links of related genes with longevity. The results support the validity of the bleomycin model to human pathology and suggest the importance of a multi-target therapeutic strategy for pulmonary fibrosis treatment.
Whole exome sequencing in 17 consanguineous Iranian pedigrees expands the mutational spectrum of inherited retinal dystrophies
Authors: Rehman Atta Ur , Sepahi Neda , Bedoni Nicola , Ravesh Zeinab , Salmaninejad Arash , Cancellieri Francesca , Peter Virginie G. , Quinodoz Mathieu , Mojarrad Majid , Pasdar Alireza , Asad Ali Ghanbari , Ghalamkari Saman , Piran Mehran , Piran Mehrdad , Superti-Furga Andrea , Rivolta Carlo
Published: September 2021

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) constitute one of the most heterogeneous groups of Mendelian human disorders. Using autozygome-guided next-generation sequencing methods in 17 consanguineous pedigrees of Iranian descent with isolated or syndromic IRD, we identified 17 distinct genomic variants in 11 previously-reported disease genes. Consistent with a recessive inheritance pattern, as suggested by pedigrees, variants discovered in our study were exclusively bi-allelic and mostly in a homozygous state (in 15 families out of 17, or 88%). Out of the 17 variants identified, 5 (29%) were never reported before. Interestingly, two mutations (GUCY2D:c.564dup, p.Ala189ArgfsTer130 and TULP1:c.1199G > A, p.Arg400Gln) were also identified in four separate pedigrees (two pedigrees each). In addition to expanding the mutational spectrum of IRDs, our findings confirm that the traditional practice of endogamy in the Iranian population is a prime cause for the appearance of IRDs.
Tumor distribution affects bladder recurrence but not survival outcome of multifocal upper tract urothelial carcinoma treated with radical nephroureterectomy
Authors: Sheu Zai-Lin , Huang Chi-Ping , Chang Chao-Hsiang , Chen Chung-Hsin , Hong Jian-Hua , Weng Han-Yu , Tai Ta-Yao , Chung Shiu-Dong , Lo Chi-Wen , Hsueh Thomas Y. , Tsai Yao-Chou , Jiang Yuan-Hong , Chiang Bing-Juin , Chen Yung-Tai , Lin Jen-Tai , Lin Wei-Yu , Jou Yeong-Chin , Tseng Jen-Shu , Wu Chia-Chang , Wu Wen‑Jeng , Yeh Hsin‑Chih
Published: September 2021

Tumor multifocality and location are prognostic factors for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). However, confounding effects can appear when these two factors are analyzed together. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the impact of tumor distribution on the outcomes of multifocal UTUC after radical nephroureterectomy. From the 2780 UTUC patients in the Taiwan UTUC Collaboration Group, 685 UTUC cases with multifocal tumors (defined as more than one tumor lesion in unilateral upper urinary tract) were retrospectively included and divided into three groups: multiple renal pelvic tumors, multiple ureteral tumors, and synchronous renal pelvic and ureteral tumors included 164, 152, and 369 patients, respectively. We found the prevalence of carcinoma in situ was the highest in the synchronous group. In multivariate survival analyses, tumor distribution showed no difference in cancer-specific and disease-free survival, but there was a significant difference in bladder recurrence-free survival. The synchronous group had the highest bladder recurrence rate. In summary, tumor distribution did not influence the cancer-specific outcomes of multifocal UTUC, but synchronous lesions led to a higher rate of bladder recurrence than multiple renal pelvic tumors. We believe that the distribution of tumors reflects the degree of malignant involvement within the urinary tract, but has little significance for survival or disease progression.