bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of social ecological model level on young Pacific children’s sugar-sweetened beverage and water intakes: Children’s Healthy Living intervention
Authors: Korn Ariella R , Butel Jean , Davis James , Yamanaka Ashley B , Coleman Patricia , Wilkens Lynne R , Economos Christina D , Novotny Rachel
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To examine children’s sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and water intakes in relation to implemented intervention activities across the social ecological model (SEM) during a multilevel community trial.

Design:

Children’s Healthy Living was a multilevel, multicomponent community trial that reduced young child obesity (2013–2015). Baseline and 24-month cross-sectional data were analysed from nine intervention arm communities. Implemented intervention activities targeting reduced SSB and increased water consumption were coded by SEM level (child, caregiver, organisation, community and policy). Child SSB and water intakes were assessed by caregiver-completed 2-day dietary records. Multilevel linear regression models examined associations of changes in beverage intakes with activity frequencies at each SEM level.

Setting:

US-Affiliated Pacific region.

Participants:

Children aged 2–8 years (baseline: n 1343; 24 months: n 1158).

Results:

On average (± sd), communities implemented 74 ± 39 SSB and 72 ± 40 water activities. More than 90 % of activities targeted both beverages together. Community-level activities (e.g. social marketing campaign) were most common (61 % of total activities), and child-level activities (e.g. sugar counting game) were least common (4 %). SSB activities across SEM levels were not associated with SSB intake changes. Additional community-level water activities were associated with increased water intake (0·62 ml/d/activity; 95 % CI: 0·09, 1·15) and water-for-SSB substitution (operationalised as SSB minus water: –0·88 ml/d/activity; 95 % CI: –1·72, –0·03). Activities implemented at the organization level (e.g. strengthening preschool wellness guidelines) and policy level (e.g. SSB tax advocacy) also suggested greater water-for-SSB substitution (P < 0·10).

Conclusions:

Community-level intervention activities were associated with increased water intake, alone and relative to SSB intake, among young children in the Pacific region.
CME-Antworten: Chronisch generalisierter Pruritus nicht-dermatologischer Ursache
Authors: Petruse Liliana , Kiesel Holger , Rampini Silvana K.
Published: November 2020

Zusammenfassung. Chronisch generalisierter Pruritus ist ein häufiges Symptom. Dermatologische Ursachen müssen von nicht-dermatologischen Ursachen unterschieden werden. Nicht-dermatologisch bedingter Pruritus hat vielfältige Ursachen, wie systemische, infektiologische, neurologische, psychogene Erkrankungen und medikamentöse Nebenwirkungen, von denen einige mit einer signifikanten Morbidität verbunden sein können. Die Möglichkeit einer systemischen Erkrankung sollte bei Patientinnen und Patienten mit generalisiertem Pruritus und ohne Anzeichen für primäre Hautläsionen ausgeschlossen werden. Neben einer sorgfältigen Anamnese und körperlichen Untersuchung können ausgewählte Laboruntersuchungen hilfreich sein, um eine Diagnose zu stellen. Pruritus kann das erste Anzeichen einer malignen, im Besonderen hämatologischen, Erkrankung sein. Pruritus im Zusammenhang mit soliden Tumoren ist auch nicht so selten. Da chronischer Pruritus oft therapierefraktär ist, geht er mit einer deutlichen Einschränkung der Lebensqualität einher. Dieser CME Artikel bietet eine Herangehensweise an den nicht-dermatologisch bedingten, chronisch generalisierten Pruritus des Erwachsenen mit möglicher Abklärungsstrategie und differenzialdiagnostischen Überlegungen.
Seasonal Variations in Dissolved Carbon Inventory and Fluxes in a Mangrove‐Dominated Estuary
Authors: Volta Chiara , Ho David T. , Maher Damien T. , Wanninkhof Rik , Friederich Gernot , Del Castillo Carlos , Dulai Henrietta
Published: November 2020

Two experiments were performed during the wet and dry seasons to quantify dissolved carbon dynamics and fluxes in the Shark River, a tidal estuary flowing through the largest contiguous mangrove forest in North America (Everglades National Park, Florida, USA). During these experiments, between 80% and 87% of the total dissolved carbon pool consisted of inorganic carbon (DIC). Carbon inputs from mangroves to the estuary were slightly higher during the wet season, whereas alkalinity inputs were comparable during the two experiments. Longitudinal dissolved carbon fluxes to the coastal ocean were slightly higher during the wet season (13.53 ± 0.76 × 105 mol day−1during the wet and 11.70 ± 0.32 × 105 mol day−1during the dry), whereas longitudinal alkalinity flux was comparable during both experiments (10.64 ± 0.74 in the wet vs. 9.88 ± 0.30 × 105 mol day−1during the dry season). Overall, DIC production in surface water, porewater, and groundwater was dominated by oxic mineralization of mangrove‐derived organic matter and carbonate dissolution. Carbonate dissolution was the most important alkalinity production process in the system. The experiments show that regardless of the season and hydro‐climatic conditions, Shark River receives large inputs of dissolved carbon from the upstream marsh, mangroves, and carbonate dissolution, and that per area, it exports a greater amount of dissolved carbon than many other mangrove‐dominated estuaries in the world.
Summertime Biogenic Silica Production and Silicon Limitation in the Pacific Arctic Region From 2006 to 2016
Authors: Giesbrecht K. E. , Varela D. E.
Published: November 2020

We present a decade of dissolved and particulate silica concentrations within five biological “hot spots” in the Pacific Arctic Region (PAR) and the first measurements of both biogenic silica production rates (ρSi) and the kinetics of silicon utilization from a period of four years at the same sites. The “hot spots” were located within the Bering and Chukchi Seas and identified as part of the Distributed Biological Observatory (DBO). Across all hot spots, the highest concentrations of silicic acid (Si(OH)4) and biogenic silica were found near the bottom of the euphotic zone and often correlated with increased ρSi. For the entire region, the average ρSi was 19 mmol m−2 day−1 and siliceous microplankton (i.e., diatoms) contributed an average of 62% to primary productivity and 82% to nitrate utilization. Irradiance and [Si(OH)4] had separate and interactive effects on ρSi. Irradiance modulated both the magnitude of ρSi and the response of diatoms to changes in Si(OH)4. Availability of Si(OH)4 limited ρSi in all hot spots in at least one of the four years. Kinetic experiments conducted in all hot spots demonstrated that the half‐saturation constant (Ks) for ρSi was 4–8 times higher than ever reported in the literature. In the southeastern Chukchi Sea, an east to west gradient in [bSiO2] and ρSi may have been driven by differences in the availability of NO3− rather than Si(OH)4. Despite strong interannual variability, we suggest that phytoplankton phenology responds to short‐term climatic changes, which can have far‐reaching effects on Arctic regions influenced by the Pacific‐origin waters flowing through the PAR.
The Importance of the Phytoplankton “Middle Class” to Ocean Net Community Production
Authors: Juranek Lauren W. , White Angelicque E. , Dugenne Mathilde , Henderikx Freitas Fernanda , Dutkiewicz Stephanie , Ribalet Francois , Ferrón Sara , Armbrust E. Virginia , Karl David M.
Published: November 2020

The net balance between photosynthesis and respiration in the surface ocean is a key regulator of ocean‐atmosphere carbon dioxide (CO2) partitioning, and by extension, Earth's climate. The slight excess of photosynthesis over community respiration in sunlit waters, known as net community production (NCP), sets the upper bound on the sequestration of carbon via biologically mediated export. Prevailing paradigms suggest a high/low binary where net primary production (NPP), NCP, and export are highest in ecosystems characterized by microplankton (>20 μm) and lowest in ecosystems dominated by picoplankton (<2 μm). This bifurcation model neglects the potential importance of nanoplankton (2–20 μm)—i.e., the “middle” size class—toward global biological pump functioning. Here, we show a relationship between the biomass of nanoplankton and oxygen‐based estimates of NCP across natural ecological gradients in the North Pacific Ocean. Using a suite of high‐resolution optical imaging approaches including SeaFlow, Imaging FlowCytobot, and laser‐based scattering, nanoplankton dynamics are observed to dominate the particle size distribution throughout an ~1,000 km transition between the subtropical and subpolar North Pacific, where NCP rates are threefold to fivefold higher than subtropical values. Based on ecological theory applied to the Darwin size‐based ecosystem model, we hypothesize that intermediate size class organisms are capable of high rates of production via an optimization of bottom‐up and top‐down control inherent to the “middle class.” More broadly, the model indicates the global importance of nanoplankton for ocean biological production.
Gestational diabetes induces behavioral and brain gene transcription dysregulation in adult offspring
Authors: Aviel-Shekler Keren , Hamshawi Yara , Sirhan Worood , Getselter Dmitriy , Srikanth Kolluru D. , Malka Assaf , Piran Ron , Elliott Evan
Published: November 2020

The etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) includes a strong genetic component and a complicated environmental component. Recent evidence indicates that maternal diabetes, including gestational diabetes, is associated with an increased prevalence of ASD. While previous studies have looked into possible roles for maternal diabetes in neurodevelopment, there are few studies into how gestational diabetes, with no previous diabetic or metabolic phenotype, may affect neurodevelopment. In this study, we have specifically induced gestational diabetes in mice, followed by behavioral and molecular phenotyping of the mice offspring. Pregnant mice were injected with STZ a day after initiation of pregnancy. Glucose levels increased to diabetic levels between E7 and E14 in pregnancy in a subset of the pregnant animals. Male offspring of Gestational Diabetic mothers displayed increased repetitive behaviors with no dysregulation in the three-chambered social interaction test. RNA-seq analysis revealed a dysregulation in genes related to forebrain development in the frontal cortex and a dysregulation of a network of neurodevelopment and immune related genes in the striatum. Together, these results give evidence that gestational diabetes can induce changes in adulthood behavior and gene transcription in the brain.
Publisher Correction: Conservative route to genome compaction in a miniature annelid
Authors: Martín-Durán José M. , Vellutini Bruno C. , Marlétaz Ferdinand , Cetrangolo Viviana , Cvetesic Nevena , Thiel Daniel , Henriet Simon , Grau-Bové Xavier , Carrillo-Baltodano Allan M. , Gu Wenjia , Kerbl Alexandra , Marquez Yamile , Bekkouche Nicolas , Chourrout Daniel , Gómez-Skarmeta Jose Luis , Irimia Manuel , Lenhard Boris , Worsaae Katrine , Hejnol Andreas
Published: November 2020

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-020-01327-6.
Response2covid19, a dataset of governments’ responses to COVID-19 all around the world
Authors: Porcher Simon
Published: November 2020

Following the COVID-19 outbreak, governments all around the world have implemented public health and economic measures to contain the spread of the virus and to support the economy. Public health measures include domestic lockdown, school closures and bans on mass gatherings among others. Economic measures cover wage support, cash transfers, interest rates cuts, tax cuts and delays, and support to exporters or importers. This paper introduces ‘Response2covid19’, a living dataset of governments’ responses to COVID-19. The dataset codes the various policy interventions with their dates at the country-level for more than 200 countries from January 1 to October 1, 2020 and is updated every month. The production of detailed data on the measures taken by governments can help generate robust evidence to support public health and economic decision making.
Evolution and pathogenicity of H6 avian influenza viruses isolated from Southern China during 2011 to 2017 in mice and chickens
Authors: Lin Weishan , Cui Hongrui , Teng Qiaoyang , Li Luzhao , Shi Ying , Li Xuesong , Yang Jianmei , Liu Qinfang , Deng Junliang , Li Zejun
Published: November 2020

H6 subtype avian influenza viruses spread widely in birds and pose potential threats to poultry and mammals, even to human beings. In this study, the evolution and pathogenicity of H6 AIVs isolated in live poultry markets from 2011 to 2017 were investigated. These H6 isolates were reassortant with other subtypes of influenza virus with increasing genomic diversity. However, no predominant genotype was found during this period. All of the H6N2 and most of the H6N6 isolates replicated efficiently in lungs of inoculated mice without prior adaptation. All of the H6N2 and two H6N6 isolates replicated efficiently in nasal turbinates of inoculated mice, which suggested the H6N2 viruses were more adaptive to the upper respiratory tract of mice than the H6N6 viruses. One of H6N2 virus caused systemic infection in one out of three inoculated mice, which indicated that H6 avian influenza virus, especially the H6N2 viruses posed a potential threat to mammals. Five H6 strains selected from different genotypes caused no clinical signs to inoculated chickens, and their replication were limited in chickens since the viruses have been detected only from a few tissues or swabs at low titers. Our study strongly suggests that the H6 avian influenza virus isolated from live poultry markets pose potential threat to mammals.
Microstructural deformation observed by Mueller polarimetry during traction assay on myocardium samples
Authors: Tueni Nicole , Vizet Jérémy , Genet Martin , Pierangelo Angelo , Allain Jean-Marc
Published: November 2020

Despite recent advances, the myocardial microstructure remains imperfectly understood. In particular, bundles of cardiomyocytes have been observed but their three-dimensional organisation remains debated and the associated mechanical consequences unknown. One of the major challenges remains to perform multiscale observations of the mechanical response of the heart wall. For this purpose, in this study, a full-field Mueller polarimetric imager (MPI) was combined, for the first time, with an in-situ traction device. The full-field MPI enables to obtain a macroscopic image of the explored tissue, while providing detailed information about its structure on a microscopic scale. Specifically it exploits the polarization of the light to determine various biophysical quantities related to the tissue scattering or anisotropy properties. Combined with a mechanical traction device, the full-field MPI allows to measure the evolution of such biophysical quantities during tissue stretch. We observe separation lines on the tissue, which are associated with a fast variation of the fiber orientation, and have the size of cardiomyocyte bundles. Thus, we hypothesize that these lines are the perimysium, the collagen layer surrounding these bundles. During the mechanical traction, we observe two mechanisms simultaneously. On one hand, the azimuth shows an affine behavior, meaning the orientation changes according to the tissue deformation, and showing coherence in the tissue. On the other hand, the separation lines appear to be resistant in shear and compression but weak against traction, with a forming of gaps in the tissue.
Resveratrol improves motor function in patients with muscular dystrophies: an open-label, single-arm, phase IIa study
Authors: Kawamura Kentaro , Fukumura Shinobu , Nikaido Koki , Tachi Nobutada , Kozuka Naoki , Seino Tsugumi , Hatakeyama Kingya , Mori Mitsuru , Ito Yoichi M. , Takami Akiyoshi , Hinotsu Shiro , Kuno Atsushi , Kawasaki Yukihiko , Horio Yoshiyuki , Tsutsumi Hiroyuki
Published: November 2020

Muscular dystrophies (MDs) are inherited disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness. Previously, we have shown that resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene), an antioxidant and an activator of the protein deacetylase SIRT1, decreases muscular and cardiac oxidative damage and improves pathophysiological conditions in animal MD models. To determine whether resveratrol provides therapeutic benefits to patients with MDs, an open-label, single-arm, phase IIa trial of resveratrol was conducted in 11 patients with Duchenne, Becker or Fukuyama MD. The daily dose of resveratrol was 500 mg/day, which was increased every 8 weeks to 1000 and then 1500 mg/day. Primary outcomes were motor function, evaluated by a motor function measure (MFM) scale, muscular strength, monitored with quantitative muscle testing (QMT), and serum creatine kinase (CK) levels. Adverse effects and tolerability were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Despite the advanced medical conditions of the patients, the mean MFM scores increased significantly from 34.6 to 38.4 after 24 weeks of medication. A twofold increase was found in the mean QMT scores of scapula elevation and shoulder abduction. Mean CK levels decreased considerably by 34%. Diarrhoea and abdominal pain was noted in six and three patients, respectively. Resveratrol may provide some benefit to MD patients.
Determinants of vitamin D status in Kenyan calves
Authors: Callaby Rebecca , Hurst Emma , Handel Ian , Toye Phil , Bronsvoort Barend M. de C. , Mellanby Richard J.
Published: November 2020

Vitamin D plays a critical role in calcium homeostasis and in the maintenance and development of skeletal health. Vitamin D status has increasingly been linked to non-skeletal health outcomes such as all-cause mortality, infectious diseases and reproductive outcomes in both humans and veterinary species. We have previously demonstrated a relationship between vitamin D status, assessed by the measurement of serum concentrations of the major vitamin D metabolite 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), and a wide range of non-skeletal health outcomes in companion and wild animals. The aims of this study were to define the host and environmental factors associated with vitamin D status in a cohort of 527 calves from Western Kenya which were part of the Infectious Disease of East African Livestock (IDEAL) cohort. A secondary aim was to explore the relationship between serum 25(OH)D concentrations measured in 7-day old calves and subsequent health outcomes over the following 12 months. A genome wide association study demonstrated that both dietary and endogenously produced vitamin D metabolites were under polygenic control in African calves. In addition, we found that neonatal vitamin D status was not predictive of the subsequent development of an infectious disease event or mortality over the 12 month follow up period.
Suitability of environmental indices in assessment of soil remediation with conventional and next generation washing agents
Authors: Klik Barbara K. , Gusiatin Zygmunt M. , Kulikowska Dorota
Published: November 2020

Remediation of soils contaminated with metal must ensure high efficiency of metals removal, reduce bioavailability of residual metals and decrease ecological risk. Thus, for comprehensive environmental soil quality assessment, different indices must be used. In this study, suitability of 8 indices was used for soil highly contaminated with Cu (7874.5 mg kg−1), moderately with Pb (1414.3 mg kg−1) and low with Zn (566.1 mg kg−1), washed in batch and dynamic conditions with both conventional and next-generation washing agents. The following indices were used: modified contamination factor (mCf), modified contamination factor degree (mCdeg), mobility factor (MF), reduced partition index (IR), potential ecological risk factor (Er,Z), modified potential ecological risk factor (Er,m), potential ecological risk index (RIZ) and modified ecological risk index (RIm). For mCf,mCdeg and IR own classification scale was proposed. It was proven that most useful indices for assessment of soil pollution with metals were mCf and mCdeg. The mCf together with the IR allow to simultaneous assessment of soil pollution and stability for individual metals. These indices were appropriate for soil contaminated with different concentrations of metals, washed under both hydrodynamic conditions using various washing agents and different effectiveness of metals removal. Thus, they may be considered as most useful for evaluation of remediation method, feasibility of washing agent and assessing soil quality after washing.
Towards integration of 64Cu-DOTA-trastuzumab PET-CT and MRI with mathematical modeling to predict response to neoadjuvant therapy in HER2 + breast cancer
Authors: Jarrett Angela M. , Hormuth David A. , Adhikarla Vikram , Sahoo Prativa , Abler Daniel , Tumyan Lusine , Schmolze Daniel , Mortimer Joanne , Rockne Russell C. , Yankeelov Thomas E.
Published: November 2020

While targeted therapies exist for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2 +) breast cancer, HER2 + patients do not always respond to therapy. We present the results of utilizing a biophysical mathematical model to predict tumor response for two HER2 + breast cancer patients treated with the same therapeutic regimen but who achieved different treatment outcomes. Quantitative data from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 64Cu-DOTA-trastuzumab positron emission tomography (PET) are used to estimate tumor density, perfusion, and distribution of HER2-targeted antibodies for each individual patient. MRI and PET data are collected prior to therapy, and follow-up MRI scans are acquired at a midpoint in therapy. Given these data types, we align the data sets to a common image space to enable model calibration. Once the model is parameterized with these data, we forecast treatment response with and without HER2-targeted therapy. By incorporating targeted therapy into the model, the resulting predictions are able to distinguish between the two different patient responses, increasing the difference in tumor volume change between the two patients by > 40%. This work provides a proof-of-concept strategy for processing and integrating PET and MRI modalities into a predictive, clinical-mathematical framework to provide patient-specific predictions of HER2 + treatment response.
Detection and classification of intracranial haemorrhage on CT images using a novel deep-learning algorithm
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Kim Jong Soo , Kim Tae Yoon , Kim Young Soo
Published: November 2020

A novel deep-learning algorithm for artificial neural networks (ANNs), completely different from the back-propagation method, was developed in a previous study. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of using the algorithm for the detection of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) and the classification of its subtypes, without employing the convolutional neural network (CNN). For the detection of ICH with the summation of all the computed tomography (CT) images for each case, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.859, and the sensitivity and the specificity were 78.0% and 80.0%, respectively. Regarding ICH localisation, CT images were divided into 10 subdivisions based on the intracranial height. With the subdivision of 41–50%, the best diagnostic performance for detecting ICH was obtained with AUC of 0.903, the sensitivity of 82.5%, and the specificity of 84.1%. For the classification of the ICH to subtypes, the accuracy rate for subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) was considerably excellent at 91.7%. This study revealed that our approach can greatly reduce the ICH diagnosis time in an actual emergency situation with a fairly good diagnostic performance.
Characterizing the spatial distributions of spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) in Pennsylvania vineyards
Authors: Leach Ashley , Leach Heather
Published: November 2020

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect in the Northeastern U.S. projected to spread nationally and globally. While SLF is a significant pest of vineyards, little is known about the pest in grape agroecosystems including its spatial ecology. SLF spatial patterns were analyzed using a combination of approaches including generalized linear mixed effect models, Moran’s I statistic for spatial clustering, and Empirical Bayesian Kriging. Analysis revealed that SLF displayed significantly clumped distributions in monitored vineyards. Approximately 54% and 44% of the respective adult and egg mass populations were observed within the first 15 m of the vineyard edge. Importantly, the spatial concentration of adults at the edge was consistent temporally, both between years and weeks. Moreover, high populations of SLF on vines were significantly correlated with reduced fruit production in the following year. Mark-release-recapture of SLF revealed that higher proportions of SLF were recaptured on vines with high pre-existing SLF populations, indicating that SLF may exhibit aggregation behavior along vineyard perimeters. Monitoring and management efforts for SLF should be prioritized around vineyard edges as it may significantly reduce infestations and subsequent damage.
An epigenome-wide association study of metabolic syndrome and its components
Authors: Nuotio Marja-Liisa , Pervjakova Natalia , Joensuu Anni , Karhunen Ville , Hiekkalinna Tero , Milani Lili , Kettunen Johannes , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Jousilahti Pekka , Metspalu Andres , Salomaa Veikko , Kristiansson Kati , Perola Markus
Published: November 2020

The role of metabolic syndrome (MetS) as a preceding metabolic state for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease is widely recognised. To accumulate knowledge of the pathological mechanisms behind the condition at the methylation level, we conducted an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of MetS and its components, testing 1187 individuals of European ancestry for approximately 470 000 methylation sites throughout the genome. Methylation site cg19693031 in gene TXNIP —previously associated with type 2 diabetes, glucose and lipid metabolism, associated with fasting glucose level (P = 1.80 × 10−8). Cg06500161 in gene ABCG1 associated both with serum triglycerides (P = 5.36 × 10−9) and waist circumference (P = 5.21 × 10−9). The previously identified type 2 diabetes–associated locus cg08309687 in chromosome 21 associated with waist circumference for the first time (P = 2.24 × 10−7). Furthermore, a novel HDL association with cg17901584 in chromosome 1 was identified (P = 7.81 × 10−8). Our study supports previous genetic studies of MetS, finding that lipid metabolism plays a key role in pathology of the syndrome. We provide evidence regarding a close interplay with glucose metabolism. Finally, we suggest that in attempts to identify methylation loci linking separate MetS components, cg19693031 appears to represent a strong candidate.
Artificial intelligence and thermodynamics help solving arson cases
Authors: Korver Sander , Schouten Eva , Moultos Othonas A. , Vergeer Peter , Grutters Michiel M. P. , Peschier Leo J. C. , Vlugt Thijs J. H. , Ramdin Mahinder
Published: November 2020

In arson cases, evidence such as DNA or fingerprints is often destroyed. One of the most important evidence modalities left is relating fire accelerants to a suspect. When gasoline is used as accelerant, the aim is to find a strong indication that a gasoline sample from a fire scene is related to a sample of a suspect. Gasoline samples from a fire scene are weathered, which prohibits a straightforward comparison. We combine machine learning, thermodynamic modeling, and quantum mechanics to predict the composition of unweathered gasoline samples starting from weathered ones. Our approach predicts the initial (unweathered) composition of the sixty main components in a weathered gasoline sample, with error bars of ca. 4% when weathered up to 80% w/w. This shows that machine learning is a valuable tool for predicting the initial composition of a weathered gasoline, and thereby relating samples to suspects.
Relationship between plasma growth differentiation factor-15 levels and diabetic retinopathy in individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chung Jin Ook , Park Seon-Young , Cho Dong Hyeok , Chung Dong Jin , Chung Min Young
Published: November 2020

The purpose of our study was to investigate the relationship between plasma growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) concentrations and diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). We evaluated 235 patients with type 2 DM in a cross-sectional study. Significantly increased levels of the plasma GDF-15 were found in individuals with diabetic retinopathy versus those without. According to the degree of diabetic retinopathy, there was a significant difference in the average plasma GDF-15 levels (no diabetic retinopathy, 1114 ng/L; nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, 1327 ng/L; proliferative diabetic retinopathy, 1445 ng/L; p for trend = 0.035) after adjustments for confounders. Logistic regression analyses indicated that plasma GDF-15 concentrations were significantly associated with diabetic retinopathy (odds ratio per 1 standard deviation increment in the log-transformed value, 1.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–3.03, p = 0.032). Our study showed a significant positive relationship between plasma GDF-15 concentrations and diabetic retinopathy in type 2 DM patients.
Genome-wide identification of Argonautes in Solanaceae with emphasis on potato
Authors: Liao Zhen , Hodén Kristian Persson , Singh Ravi Kumar , Dixelius Christina
Published: November 2020

Regulatory small RNAs (sRNAs) play important roles in many fundamental processes in plant biology such as development, fertilization and stress responses. The AGO protein family has here a central importance in gene regulation based on their capacity to associate with sRNAs followed by mRNA targeting in a sequence-complementary manner. The present study explored Argonautes (AGOs) in the Solanaceae family, with emphasis on potato, Solanum tuberosum (St). A genome-wide monitoring was performed to provide a deeper insight into gene families, genomic localization, gene structure and expression profile against the potato late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans. Among 15 species in the Solanaceae family we found a variation from ten AGOs in Nicotiana obtusifolia to 17 in N. tabacum. Comprehensive analyses of AGO phylogeny revealed duplication of AGO1, AGO10 and AGO4 paralogs during early radiation of Solanaceae. Fourteen AGOs were identified in potato. Orthologs of AGO8 and AGO9 were missing in the potato genome. However, AGO15 earlier annotated in tomato was identified. StAGO15 differs from the other paralogs having residues of different physico-chemical properties at functionally important amino acid positions. Upon pathogen challenge StAGO15 was significantly activated and hence may play a prominent role in sRNA-based regulation of potato defense.
Investigation of intraocular pressure of the anterior chamber and vitreous cavity of porcine eyes via a novel method
Authors: Nagae Koji , Sawamura Hiromasa , Aihara Makoto
Published: November 2020

To evaluate a new method of measuring the intraocular pressure (IOP) in the vitreous cavity. IOPs in the anterior chamber and vitreous cavities of 24 porcine eyes (12 eyes with lenses and 12 eyes without lenses) were measured directly, continuously, and simultaneously. We used a needle as a part of the pressure sensor to measure the anterior chamber IOP and a disk-shaped sensor to measure the vitreous cavity IOP. A significant group-by-condition interaction on the vitreous cavity IOP between the two groups (phakia and aphakia) and four conditions of anterior chamber IOP were observed (F[3,258] = 5.8564, p < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed between the vitreous cavity IOP and anterior chamber IOP in both the phakia group (R = 0.96, p < 0.001) and the aphakia group (R = 0.97, p < 0.001). No significant correlation was observed between the ΔIOPv-a (vitreous cavity IOP − anterior chamber IOP) and anterior chamber IOP in either group (phakia group: R =  − 0.18, p = 0.034; aphakia group: R =  − 0.029, p = 0.73). The vitreous cavity IOP measured with the new sensor was well-correlated with the anterior chamber IOP in the physiological range tested.
Preparation and novel photoluminescence properties of the self-supporting nanoporous InP thin films
Authors: Cao Dezhong , Wang Bo , Lu Dingze , Zhou Xiaowei , Ma Xiaohua
Published: November 2020

Self-supporting nanoporous InP membranes are prepared by electrochemical etching, and are then first transferred to highly reflective (> 96%) mesoporous GaN (MP-GaN) distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) or quartz substrate. By the modulation of bandgap, the nanoporous InP samples show a strong photoluminescence (PL) peak at 541.2 nm due to the quantum size effect of the nanoporous InP structure. Compared to the nanoporous InP membrane with quartz substrate, the nanoporous membrane transferred to DBR shows a twofold enhancement in PL intensity owing to the high light reflection effect of bottom DBR.
Anodic titania nanotubes decorated with gold nanoparticles produced by laser-induced dewetting of thin metallic films
Authors: Grochowska Katarzyna , Nedyalkov Nikolay , Karczewski Jakub , Haryński Łukasz , Śliwiński Gerard , Siuzdak Katarzyna
Published: November 2020

Herein, we combine titania layers with gold species in a laser-supported process and report a substantial change of properties of the resulting heterostructures depending on the major processing parameters. Electrodes were fabricated via an anodisation process complemented with calcination to ensure a crystalline phase, and followed by magnetron sputtering of metallic films. The obtained TiO2 nanotubes with deposited thin (5, 10 nm) Au films were treated with a UV laser (355 nm) to form Au nanoparticles on top of the nanotubes. It was proven that selected laser working parameters ensure not only the formation of Au nanoparticles, but also simultaneously provide preservation of the initial tubular architecture, while above-threshold laser fluences result in partial destruction (melting) of the top layer of the nanotubes. For almost all of the samples, the crystalline phase of the nanotubes observed in Raman spectra was maintained independently of the laser processing parameters. Enhanced photoresponse up to ca 6 mA/cm2 was demonstrated by photoelectrochemical measurements on samples obtained by laser annealing of the 10 nm Au coating on a titania support. Moreover, a Mott–Schottky analysis indicated the dramatically increased (two orders of magnitude) concentration of donor density in the case of a laser-treated Au–TiO2 heterojunction compared to reference electrodes.
Genomic retargeting of p53 and CTCF is associated with transcriptional changes during oncogenic HRas-induced transformation
Authors: Schwartz Michal , Portugez Avital Sarusi , Attia Bracha Zukerman , Tannenbaum Miriam , Cohen Leslie , Loza Olga , Chase Emily , Turman Yousef , Kaplan Tommy , Salah Zaidoun , Hakim Ofir
Published: November 2020

Gene transcription is regulated by distant regulatory elements via combinatorial binding of transcription factors. It is increasingly recognized that alterations in chromatin state and transcription factor binding in these distant regulatory elements may have key roles in cancer development. Here we focused on the first stages of oncogene-induced carcinogenic transformation, and characterized the regulatory network underlying transcriptional changes associated with this process. Using Hi-C data, we observe spatial coupling between differentially expressed genes and their differentially accessible regulatory elements and reveal two candidate transcription factors, p53 and CTCF, as determinants of transcriptional alterations at the early stages of oncogenic HRas-induced transformation in human mammary epithelial cells. Strikingly, the malignant transcriptional reprograming is promoted by redistribution of chromatin binding of these factors without major variation in their expression level. Our results demonstrate that alterations in the regulatory landscape have a major role in driving oncogene-induced transcriptional reprogramming.
A haplotype-led approach to increase the precision of wheat breeding
Authors: Brinton Jemima , Ramirez-Gonzalez Ricardo H. , Simmonds James , Wingen Luzie , Orford Simon , Griffiths Simon ,   10 Wheat Genome Project, Haberer Georg , Spannagl Manuel , Walkowiak Sean , Pozniak Curtis , Uauy Cristobal
Published: November 2020

Crop productivity must increase at unprecedented rates to meet the needs of the growing worldwide population. Exploiting natural variation for the genetic improvement of crops plays a central role in increasing productivity. Although current genomic technologies can be used for high-throughput identification of genetic variation, methods for efficiently exploiting this genetic potential in a targeted, systematic manner are lacking. Here, we developed a haplotype-based approach to identify genetic diversity for crop improvement using genome assemblies from 15 bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars. We used stringent criteria to identify identical-by-state haplotypes and distinguish these from near-identical sequences (~99.95% identity). We showed that each cultivar shares ~59 % of its genome with other sequenced cultivars and we detected the presence of extended haplotype blocks containing hundreds to thousands of genes across all wheat chromosomes. We found that genic sequence alone was insufficient to fully differentiate between haplotypes, as were commonly used array-based genotyping chips due to their gene centric design. We successfully used this approach for focused discovery of novel haplotypes from a landrace collection and documented their potential for trait improvement in modern bread wheat. This study provides a framework for defining and exploiting haplotypes to increase the efficiency and precision of wheat breeding towards optimising the agronomic performance of this crucial crop.
Structure-aided ACEI-capped remdesivir-loaded novel PLGA nanoparticles: toward a computational simulation design for anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapy
Authors: Wu Juanping , Wang Hongmei , Li Bingyu
Published: November 2020

A theoretical combination molecular docking design with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)-containing remdesivir-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) for anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapy by using dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulations.
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of dihydro-2-quinolone platinum(iv) hybrids as antitumor agents displaying mitochondria injury and DNA damage mechanism
Authors: Liu Zhifang , Li Zuojie , Du Tao , Chen Yan , Wang Qingpeng , Li Guoshuai , Liu Min , Zhang Ning , Li Dacheng , Han Jun
Published: November 2020

Dihydro-2-quinolone platinum(iv) hybrids exhibit effective antitumor activities by causing serious mitochondria injury and DNA damage, and show great potential in reversing cisplatin resistance and improving antitumor efficacies.
Coumarin functionalized molecular scaffolds for the effectual detection of hazardous fluoride and cyanide
Authors: Mondal Amita , Nag Somrita , Banerjee Priyabrata
Published: November 2020

In pursuit of detecting hazardous Fluoride and Cyanide, coumarin-functionalized supramolecular chemosensors are found to be highly proficient owing to their various applications in biological systems and advanced material fields.
Solvent responses and substituent effects upon magnetic properties of mononuclear DyIII compounds
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Shen Nan , Zhang Jiangwei , Xu Fang , Zhang Jin , Tang Jiamin , Hu Dengwei , Yin Bing , Chen Sanping
Published: November 2020

Solvent responsive magnets comprise a class of molecule-based materials where lattice solvent driven structural transformation leads to the switching of magnetic properties.
A novel ruthenium(ii) gallic acid complex disrupts the actin cytoskeleton and inhibits migration, invasion and adhesion of triple negative breast tumor cells
Authors: Graminha Angelica E. , Honorato João , Correa Rodrigo S. , Cominetti Marcia R. , Menezes Antônio C. S. , Batista Alzir A.
Published: November 2020

Ru(ii) complexes with gallic acid and derivatives interact with biomolecules and show high SI among non-tumor/tumor breast cells. The gallic acid complex causes damage to the cell cytoskeleton inhibiting adhesion, invasion, and migration of tumor cells.
Metal–organic frameworks containing xanthene dyes for photocatalytic applications
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Li Bowen , Li Han-Shu , Wu Pengyan , Wang Jian
Published: November 2020

This comprehensive frontier article systematically summarizes the recent developments in the study of MOFs containing xanthene dyes for photocatalytic applications.
Arsenite oxyanions affect CeO2 nanoparticle dissolution and colloidal stability
Authors: Neil Chelsea W. , Wu Xuanhao , Kim Doyoon , Jung Haesung , Zhu Yanzhe , Ray Jessica R. , Jun Young-Shin
Published: November 2020

Exposing ceria nanoparticles to high arsenite concentrations will trigger aggregation and settling, while lower concentrations promote dissolution through redox interactions.
Effects of combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation on osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Chunxiao , Kuang Xiaotong , Li Kelei , Guo Xiaofei , Deng Qingxue , Li Duo
Published: November 2020

The aim of the present study was to explore whether combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
Quantitative prediction of charge regulation in oligopeptides
Authors: Lunkad Raju , Murmiliuk Anastasiia , Hebbeker Pascal , Boublík Milan , Tošner Zdeněk , Štěpánek Miroslav , Košovan Peter
Published: November 2020

Charge regulation in the peptide Glu5–His5 as a model weak ampholyte: simulations predict deviations from the ideal ionization of free aminoacids, in quantitative agreement with experiments.
Nature-inspired semi-IPN hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties and multi-responsiveness
Authors: Liang Xiaoxu , Ding Hongyao , Wang Qiao , Wang Miaomiao , Yin Bibo , Sun Guoxing
Published: November 2020

Tough hydrogels (PAP hydrogels) with high mechanical properties and multi-responsiveness.
Activation barriers in Class F G protein-coupled receptors revealed by umbrella sampling simulations
Authors: Agostino Mark , Pohl Sebastian Öther-Gee
Published: November 2020

Molecular simulations reveal energetic barriers to Class F GPCR activation.
Lithium nickel borides: evolution of [NiB] layers driven by Li pressure
Authors: Gvozdetskyi Volodymyr , Sun Yang , Zhao Xin , Bhaskar Gourab , Carnahan Scott L. , Harmer Colin P. , Zhang Feng , Ribeiro Raquel A. , Canfield Paul C. , Rossini Aaron J. , Wang Cai-Zhuang , Ho Kai-Ming , Zaikina Julia V.
Published: November 2020

Insertion of additional Li atoms into the Li-monolayer in the structures of layered LiNiB polymorphs induces the deformation of [NiB] layers and alters their stacking, however, does not affect magnetic properties.
Correction: Deep in blue with green chemistry: influence of solvent and chain length on the behaviour of N- and N,N′-alkyl indigo derivatives
Authors: Pinheiro Daniela , Pineiro Marta , Galvão Adelino M. , Seixas de Melo J. Sérgio
Published: November 2020

Correction for ‘Deep in blue with green chemistry: influence of solvent and chain length on the behaviour of N- and N,N′-alkyl indigo derivatives’ by Daniela Pinheiro et al., Chem. Sci., 2020, DOI: 10.1039/d0sc04958a.
A direction-aware and ultrafast self-healing dual network hydrogel for a flexible electronic skin strain sensor
Authors: Peng Wenwu , Han Lu , Huang Hailong , Xuan Xiaoyang , Pan Guodong , Wan Lijia , Lu Ting , Xu Min , Pan Likun
Published: November 2020

A dual network flexible electronic skin hydrogel with direction-recognition and ultrafast self-healing ability was prepared and applied for strain sensors.
Antimony alloying electrode for high-performance sodium removal: how to use a battery material not stable in aqueous media for saline water remediation
Authors: Arnold Stefanie , Wang Lei , Budak Öznil , Aslan Mesut , Srimuk Pattarachai , Presser Volker
Published: November 2020

The high sodium uptake capacity of antimony can be used for high performance water desalination by using a ceramic ion-exchange membrane.
Visualization of platelet recruitment to tumor lesions using highly sensitive and stable radioiodine studded gold nanoprobes
Authors: Lee Sang Bong , Ji Hyun Dong , Lee In-Kyu , Kim Kil Soo , Lee Jaetae , Lee Sang-Woo , Jeon Yong Hyun
Published: November 2020

Our findings suggest that the imaging approach using RIS-GNPs makes it feasible to visualize the biological behavior of platelets in living organisms with cancer.
Dual-responsive polymersomes as anticancer drug carriers for the co-delivery of doxorubicin and paclitaxel
Authors: Zhou Dongxu , Fei Zhixiong , Jin Lunqiang , Zhou Peng , Li Chenxi , Liu Xiaoling , Zhao Changsheng
Published: November 2020

Dual-responsive polymersomes had pH-tuned temperature responsiveness, controlled the DOX and PTX release separately, and released DOX and PTX sustainably in tumor microenvironment.
Resistive switching behaviour in a polymannose film for multistate non-volatile memory application
Authors: Tayeb Ilias A. , Zhao Feng , Abdullah Jafri M. , Cheong Kuan Y.
Published: November 2020

With the shift towards reducing electronic waste, bio-organic materials are considered as prominent alternatives to produce resistive switching memory due to their biodegradability and benign environmental impacts.
Anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy: cellular and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Dadson Keith , Calvillo-Argüelles Oscar , Thavendiranathan Paaladinesh , Billia Filio
Published: November 2020

Despite the known risk of cardiotoxicity, anthracyclines are widely prescribed chemotherapeutic agents. They are broadly characterized as being a robust effector of cellular apoptosis in rapidly proliferating cells through its actions in the nucleus and formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). And, despite the early use of dexrazoxane, no effective treatment strategy has emerged to prevent the development of cardiomyopathy, despite decades of study, suggesting that much more insight into the underlying mechanism of the development of cardiomyopathy is needed. In this review, we detail the specific intracellular activities of anthracyclines, from the cell membrane to the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and highlight potential therapeutic windows that represent the forefront of research into the underlying causes of anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy.
Developmental programming of cardiovascular function: a translational perspective
Authors: Bourque Stephane L. , Davidge Sandra T.
Published: November 2020

The developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) is a concept linking pre- and early postnatal exposures to environmental influences with long-term health outcomes and susceptibility to disease. It has provided a new perspective on the etiology and evolution of chronic disease risk, and as such is a classic example of a paradigm shift. What first emerged as the ‘fetal origins of disease’, the evolution of the DOHaD conceptual framework is a storied one in which preclinical studies played an important role. With its potential clinical applications of DOHaD, there is increasing desire to leverage this growing body of preclinical work to improve health outcomes in populations all over the world. In this review, we provide a perspective on the values and limitations of preclinical research, and the challenges that impede its translation. The review focuses largely on the developmental programming of cardiovascular function and begins with a brief discussion on the emergence of the ‘Barker hypothesis’, and its subsequent evolution into the more-encompassing DOHaD framework. We then discuss some fundamental pathophysiological processes by which developmental programming may occur, and attempt to define these as ‘instigator’ and ‘effector’ mechanisms, according to their role in early adversity. We conclude with a brief discussion of some notable challenges that hinder the translation of this preclinical work.