bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteome and transcriptome analyses of wheat near isogenic lines identifies key proteins and genes of wheat bread quality
Authors: Lv Liangjie , Zhao Aiju , Zhang Yelun , Li Hui , Chen Xiyong
Published: May 2021

The regulation of wheat protein quality is a highly complex biological process involving multiple metabolic pathways. To reveal new insights into the regulatory pathways of wheat glutenin synthesis, we used the grain-filling period wheat grains of the near-isogenic lines NIL-723 and NIL-1010, which have large differences in quality, to perform a combined transcriptome and proteome analysis. Compared with NIL-1010, NIL-723 had 1287 transcripts and 355 proteins with significantly different abundances. Certain key significantly enriched pathway were identified, and wheat quality was associated with alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, nitrogen metabolism and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) or Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in amino acid synthesis pathways were upregulated primarily in the glycine (Gly), methionine (Met), threonine (Thr), glutamic acid (Glu), proline (proC), cysteine (Cys), and arginine (Arg) synthesis and downregulated in the tryptophan (trpE), leucine (leuC), citrulline (argE), and ornithine (argE) synthesis. Furthermore, to elucidate changes in glutenin in the grain synthesis pathway, we plotted a regulatory pathway map and found that DEGs and DEPs in ribosomes (RPL5) and the ER (HSPA5, HYOU1, PDIA3, PDIA1, Sec24, and Sec31) may play key roles in regulating glutenin synthesis. The transcriptional validation of some of the differentially expressed proteins through real-time quantitative PCR analysis further validated the transcriptome and proteomic results.
Morpho-molecular signal correlation between optical coherence tomography and Raman spectroscopy for superior image interpretation and clinical diagnosis
Authors: Schie Iwan W. , Placzek Fabian , Knorr Florian , Cordero Eliana , Wurster Lara M. , Hermann Gregers G. , Mogensen Karin , Hasselager Thomas , Drexler Wolfgang , Popp Jürgen , Leitgeb Rainer A.
Published: May 2021

The combination of manifold optical imaging modalities resulting in multimodal optical systems allows to discover a larger number of biomarkers than using a single modality. The goal of multimodal imaging systems is to increase the diagnostic performance through the combination of complementary modalities, e.g. optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Raman spectroscopy (RS). The physical signal origins of OCT and RS are distinctly different, i.e. in OCT it is elastic back scattering of photons, due to a change in refractive index, while in RS it is the inelastic scattering between photons and molecules. Despite those diverse characteristics both modalities are also linked via scattering properties and molecular composition of tissue. Here, we investigate for the first time the relation of co-registered OCT and RS signals of human bladder tissue, to demonstrate that the signals of these complementary modalities are inherently intertwined, enabling a direct but more importantly improved interpretation and better understanding of the other modality. This work demonstrates that the benefit for using two complementary imaging approaches is, not only the increased diagnostic value, but the increased information and better understanding of the signal origins of both modalities. This evaluation confirms the advantages for using multimodal imaging systems and also paves the way for significant further improved understanding and clinically interpretation of both modalities in the future.
Radiomics-based neural network predicts recurrence patterns in glioblastoma using dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced MRI
Authors: Shim Ka Young , Chung Sung Won , Jeong Jae Hak , Hwang Inpyeong , Park Chul-Kee , Kim Tae Min , Park Sung-Hye , Won Jae Kyung , Lee Joo Ho , Lee Soon-Tae , Yoo Roh-Eul , Kang Koung Mi , Yun Tae Jin , Kim Ji-Hoon , Sohn Chul-Ho , Choi Kyu Sung , Choi Seung Hong
Published: May 2021

Glioblastoma remains the most devastating brain tumor despite optimal treatment, because of the high rate of recurrence. Distant recurrence has distinct genomic alterations compared to local recurrence, which requires different treatment planning both in clinical practice and trials. To date, perfusion-weighted MRI has revealed that perfusional characteristics of tumor are associated with prognosis. However, not much research has focused on recurrence patterns in glioblastoma: namely, local and distant recurrence. Here, we propose two different neural network models to predict the recurrence patterns in glioblastoma that utilizes high-dimensional radiomic profiles based on perfusion MRI: area under the curve (AUC) (95% confidence interval), 0.969 (0.903–1.000) for local recurrence; 0.864 (0.726–0.976) for distant recurrence for each patient in the validation set. This creates an opportunity to provide personalized medicine in contrast to studies investigating only group differences. Moreover, interpretable deep learning identified that salient radiomic features for each recurrence pattern are related to perfusional intratumoral heterogeneity. We also demonstrated that the combined salient radiomic features, or “radiomic risk score”, increased risk of recurrence/progression (hazard ratio, 1.61; p = 0.03) in multivariate Cox regression on progression-free survival.
Identification and characteristics of combined agrometeorological disasters caused by low temperature in a rice growing region in Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Ji Ruipeng , Yu Wenying , Feng Rui , Wu Jinwen , Zhang Yushu
Published: May 2021

Owing to climate change, agrometeorological disasters are becoming increasingly complex. Here, we analysed the characteristics of combined agrometeorological disaster (CAD) caused by low temperature in annual rice crops in Liaoning Province, China, from 1961 to 2017. We assessed the repeat occurrence of natural disasters on rice production. The results showed that (1) there were six possible CAD scenarios in a rice growing season. These included two scenarios with one disaster in two periods (OD-1, OD-2), three scenarios with two different disasters (TD-1, TD-2, TD-3) and one with multiple disasters (MD-1). Since 1961, the overall occurrence of the six CAD scenarios showed a downward trend. Among the six scenarios, TD-1 had the greatest distribution and occurred most frequently; (2) three possible single agrometeorological disaster (SAD) scenarios may occur during a rice growing season, delayed cold damage (SAD-d), frost damage at only one stage (SAD-f), sterile-type cold damage at one stage (SAD-s). Since 1961, the SAD-d frequency decreased, whereas, since the mid-1980s, the SAD-f frequency increased; (3) SAD and CAD frequencies showed downward trends, with CAD declining more than SAD. The CAD geographical range and frequency were smaller than those of SAD. Rice damage in SAD-f and OD-1 scenarios showed no significant trend, but appeared to have slightly increased. The main agrometeorological disasters affecting rice production in Liaoning Province were delayed cold damage, frost damage or both; (4) a comparison of the rice yield reduction rates of years in which CAD or SAD occurred in more than 50% of stations in Liaoning Province revealed that the yield reduction rates associated with the former were greater than those associated with the latter. CAD had more types, and the occurrences and impacts were more complicated, than for SAD. Compared with SAD, the effects of CAD may be magnified in rice crops, leading to reduced yields.
Maternal ingestion of cocoa causes constriction of fetal ductus arteriosus in rats
Authors: Zielinsky Paulo , Martignoni Felipe Villa , Markoski Melissa , Zucatti Kelly Pozzer , dos Santos Marinho Gabriela , Pozzobon Gabriela , Magno Pedro Rafael , de Bittencourt Antunes Victória , Sulis Natassia Miranda , Cardoso Alexandra , Mattos Daniel , Naujorks Alexandre Antônio , von Frankenberg Anize Delfino , Vian Izabele
Published: May 2021

Maternal consumption of polyphenol-rich foods has been associated with fetal ductus arteriosus constriction (DAC), but safety of chocolate exposure in fetal life has not been studied. This experimental study tested the hypothesis that maternal cocoa consumption in late pregnancy causes fetal DAC, with possible associated antioxidant effects. Pregnant Wistar rats, at the 21st gestational day, received by orogastric tube cocoa (720 mg/Kg) for 12 h, indomethacin (10 mg/Kg), for 8 h, or only water, before cesaren section. Immediately after withdrawal, every thorax was obtained and tissues were fixed and stained for histological analysis. The ratio of the narrowest part of the pulmonary artery to the fetal ductus inner diameter and increased ductal inner wall thickness characterized ductal constriction. Substances reactive to thiobarbituric acid were quantified. Statistical analysis used ANOVA and Tukey test. Cocoa (n = 33) and indomethacin (n = 7) reduced fetal internal ductus diameter when compared to control (water, n = 25) (p < 0.001) and cocoa alone increased ductus wall thickness (p < 0.001), but no change was noted in enzymes activity. This pharmacological study shows supporting evidences that there is a cause and effect relationship between maternal consumption of cocoa and fetal ductus arteriosus constriction. Habitual widespread use of chocolate during gestation could account for undetected ductus constriction and its potentially severe consequences, such as perinatal pulmonary hypertension, cardiac failure and even death. For this reason, dietary guidance in late pregnancy to avoid high chocolate intake, to prevent fetal ductal constriction, may represent the main translational aspect of this study.
Quinolinic acid is associated with cognitive deficits in schizophrenia but not major depressive disorder
Authors: Cathomas Flurin , Guetter Karoline , Seifritz Erich , Klaus Federica , Kaiser Stefan
Published: May 2021

Tryptophan and its catabolites (TRYCATs) have been suggested to link peripheral immune system activation and central neurotransmitter abnormalities with relevance to the etio-pathophysiology of schizophrenia (SZ) and major depressive disorder (MDD). The relationship to different psychopathological dimensions within these disorders however remains to be elucidated. We thus investigated potential group differences of tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid, 3-hydroxy kynurenine and quinolinic acid in the plasma of 19 healthy controls (HC), 45 patients with SZ and 43 patients with MDD and correlated plasma proteins with the “motivation and pleasure” dimension and cognition. After correcting for the covariates age, sex, body mass index, smoking and medication, patients with MDD showed lower kynurenine and 3-hydroxy kynurenine levels compared to HC. Quinolinic acid correlated negatively with composite cognitive score in patients with SZ, indicating that more severe cognitive impairments were associated with increased plasma levels of quinolinic acid. No correlations were found in patients with MDD. These results indicate that MDD and SZ are associated with dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway. Quinolinic acid might be specifically implicated in the pathophysiology of cognitive deficits in patients with SZ. Further studies are needed to determine whether TRYCATs are causally involved in the etiology of these neuropsychiatric disorders.
Detection of intracellular monosodium urate crystals in gout synovial fluid using optical diffraction tomography
Authors: Park Sangwoo , Lee Lucy Eunju , Kim Hanna , Kim Ji Eun , Lee Seung Jun , Yoon Sunggyu , Shin Seungwoo , Kang Heemin , Park YongKeun , Song Jason Jungsik , Lee Seongsoo
Published: May 2021

Optical diffraction tomography (ODT) enables imaging of unlabeled intracellular components by measuring the three-dimensional (3D) refractive index (RI). We aimed to detect intracellular monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in synovial leukocytes derived from gout patients using ODT. The 3D RI values of the synthetic MSU crystals, measured by ODT, ranged between 1.383 and 1.440. After adding synthetic MSU crystals to a macrophage, RI tomograms were reconstructed using ODT, and the reconstructed RI tomograms discerned intracellular and extracellular MSU crystals. We observed unlabeled synthetic MSU crystal entry into the cytoplasm of a macrophage through time-lapse imaging. Furthermore, using gout patient-derived synovial leukocytes, we successfully obtained RI tomogram images of intracellular MSU crystals. The 3D RI identification of MSU crystals was verified with birefringence through polarization-sensitive ODT measurements. Together, our results provide evidence that this novel ODT can identify birefringent MSU crystals in synovial leukocytes of patients with gout.
Age and gender differences in objective sleep properties using large-scale body acceleration data in a Japanese population
Authors: Li Li , Nakamura Toru , Hayano Junichiro , Yamamoto Yoshiharu
Published: May 2021

Using large-scale objective sleep data derived from body acceleration signals of 68,604 Japanese residents ranging from adolescents to the elderly (10–89 years old), we found significant age- and gender-related differences in sleep properties (timing, duration, and quality) in real-life settings. Time-in-bed and total sleep time (TST) showed a U-shaped association with age, indicating their decrease in adulthood following their increase in the elderly. There was a remarkable shift in sleep phase toward earlier bedtime and earlier wake time with increasing age (> 20 years), together with worsening of sleep quality, which is estimated by sleep efficiency (SE) and wake time after sleep onset. Gender comparisons showed that TST was shorter in women than in similarly aged men, which is much evident after the age of 30 years. This was associated with later bedtimes and greater age-related deterioration of sleep quality in women. Compared to men in the same age group, women over age 50 demonstrated a greater reduction in SE with aging, due mainly to increasing durations of nighttime awakening. These differences can be attributed to several intricately intertwined causes, including biological aging as well as socio-cultural and socio-familial factors in Japan. In conclusion, our findings provide valuable insights on the characteristics of Japanese sleep habits.
Impact of multiple-scale circulation interactions on the spring diurnal precipitation over Luzon
Authors: Lee Cheng-An , Huang Wan-Ru , Chang Ya-Hui , Huang Shih-Ming
Published: May 2021

This study examines the spatiotemporal characteristics of diurnal precipitation over Luzon and the nearby oceans in boreal spring. The study focuses on exploring the impact of the interaction between large- and local-scale circulation changes on the modulation of diurnal precipitation. We analyze the satellite precipitation data obtained from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission and Global Precipitation Measurement Mission during the spring (March–May) of 2001–2019. The results show that the spring diurnal precipitation over Luzon and the nearby oceans consists of a clear eastward propagation signal. The direction of this propagation is opposite to that of the prevailing low-level easterly wind in spring and differs from the well-known westward propagation direction of diurnal precipitation over Luzon in summer. Diagnoses of the possible maintenance mechanisms suggest that the eastward propagation diurnal precipitation can be attributed to the interaction between the topography and multiple-scale circulation changes, including the mountain–valley breeze, island-scale land–sea breeze (LSB), large-scale LSB-like circulation, and mid-to-upper-level prevailing wind fields. This finding highlights the importance of considering multiple-scale circulation changes in the modulation of spring diurnal precipitation over the East Asia–western North Pacific region.
Decreased grey matter volumes in unaffected mothers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder reflect the broader autism endophenotype
Authors: An Kyung-min , Ikeda Takashi , Hirosawa Tetsu , Yaoi Ken , Yoshimura Yuko , Hasegawa Chiaki , Tanaka Sanae , Saito Daisuke N. , Kikuchi Mitsuru
Published: May 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an early onset and a strong genetic origin. Unaffected relatives may present similar but subthreshold characteristics of ASD. This broader autism phenotype is especially prevalent in the parents of individuals with ASD, suggesting that it has heritable factors. Although previous studies have demonstrated brain morphometry differences in ASD, they are poorly understood in parents of individuals with ASD. Here, we estimated grey matter volume in 45 mothers of children with ASD (mASD) and 46 age-, sex-, and handedness-matched controls using whole-brain voxel-based morphometry analysis. The mASD group had smaller grey matter volume in the right middle temporal gyrus, temporoparietal junction, cerebellum, and parahippocampal gyrus compared with the control group. Furthermore, we analysed the correlations of these brain volumes with ASD behavioural characteristics using autism spectrum quotient (AQ) and systemizing quotient (SQ) scores, which measure general autistic traits and the drive to systemize. Smaller volumes in the middle temporal gyrus and temporoparietal junction correlated with higher SQ scores, and smaller volumes in the cerebellum and parahippocampal gyrus correlated with higher AQ scores. Our findings suggest that atypical grey matter volumes in mASD may represent one of the neurostructural endophenotypes of ASD.
Theoretical analysis on thermal treatment of skin with repetitive pulses
Authors: Ma Jingxuan , Yang Xianfeng , Sun Yuxin , Yang Jialing
Published: May 2021

Thermal ablation is an efficient method of medical treatment, such as cancer therapy, wound closure, laser cutting, freckle removal and other treatments. In order to guarantee the curative effect and the safety of the patients, the thermal response of the tissue which is subjected to the heat source need to be carefully monitored. However, it is too difficult to achieve real-time monitoring on the full-field temperature. In the present study, efforts were made to build up a theoretical model for the prediction of the thermal response in the human skin. The Dual-Phase-Lag (DPL) bio-heat transfer model and the Henrique’s burn assessment model were employed to describe the interaction of multi-pulse heat source and the skin. The repeated multi-pulse laser is a common heat source in the thermal treatment and the thermal responses of the skin would be complicated under the common effects of the non-Fourier effects and the multi-pulse source. The Green’s function approach was used to solve the governing equations analytically. The closed-form solution for the temperature distribution of the skin was obtained and the thermal damage was estimated based on the temperature results. The influences of the biological parameters (the phase lags of the heat flux and the temperature gradient) and the heat source parameters (the pulse number and the duty ratio) on the temperature distribution, the burn degree and the irreversible burn depth of the irradiated region were discussed.
Profilin2 regulates actin rod assembly in neuronal cells
Authors: Walter Lisa Marie , Rademacher Sebastian , Pich Andreas , Claus Peter
Published: May 2021

Nuclear and cytoplasmic actin-cofilin rods are formed transiently under stress conditions to reduce actin filament turnover and ATP hydrolysis. The persistence of these structures has been implicated in disease pathology of several neurological disorders. Recently, the presence of actin rods has been discovered in Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a neurodegenerative disease affecting predominantly motoneurons leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. This finding underlined the importance of dysregulated actin dynamics in motoneuron loss in SMA. In this study, we characterized actin rods formed in a SMA cell culture model analyzing their composition by LC–MS-based proteomics. Besides actin and cofilin, we identified proteins involved in processes such as ubiquitination, translation or protein folding to be bound to actin rods. This suggests their sequestration to actin rods, thus impairing important cellular functions. Moreover, we showed the involvement of the cytoskeletal protein profilin2 and its upstream effectors RhoA/ROCK in actin rod assembly in SMA. These findings implicate that the formation of actin rods exerts detrimental effects on motoneuron homeostasis by affecting actin dynamics and disturbing essential cellular pathways.
Reduced competence to arboviruses following the sustainable invasion of Wolbachia into native Aedes aegypti from Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Gesto João Silveira Moledo , Ribeiro Gabriel Sylvestre , Rocha Marcele Neves , Dias Fernando Braga Stehling , Peixoto Julia , Carvalho Fabiano Duarte , Pereira Thiago Nunes , Moreira Luciano Andrade
Published: May 2021

Field release of Wolbachia-infected Aedes aegypti has emerged as a promising solution to manage the transmission of dengue, Zika and chikungunya in endemic areas across the globe. Through an efficient self-dispersing mechanism, and the ability to induce virus-blocking properties, Wolbachia offers an unmatched potential to gradually modify wild Ae. aegypti populations turning them unsuitable disease vectors. Here we describe a proof-of-concept field trial carried out in a small community of Niterói, greater Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Following the release of Wolbachia-infected eggs, we report here a successful invasion and long-term establishment of the bacterium across the territory, as denoted by stable high-infection indexes (> 80%). We have also demonstrated that refractoriness to dengue and Zika viruses, either thorough oral-feeding or intra-thoracic saliva challenging assays, was maintained over the adaptation to the natural environment of Southeastern Brazil. These findings further support Wolbachia’s ability to invade local Ae. aegypti populations and impair disease transmission, and will pave the way for future epidemiological and economic impact assessments.
Study of microcomb threshold power with coupling scaling
Authors: Wang Pei-Hsun , Chiang Kuan-Lin , Yang Zong-Ren
Published: May 2021

We model the generation threshold and conversion efficiency of microcombs by scaling the cavity coupling. With the Lugiato–Lefever equation (LLE), quantitative analysis of threshold is established in the parameter space of pump power and coupling. Considering the large detuning and Kerr-induced phase shift, the threshold power is numerically solved with the minimum at over-coupling, in agreement with that from the traveling wave theory. Furthermore, the coupling dependence on microcomb generation is discussed, providing the accessibility of high-efficient, stable combs (≥ 40%) around the threshold. This work offers universal guidelines for the design of microcombs with low-power and high-efficient operation.
Comparison of anthropometric and body composition indices in the identification of metabolic risk factors
Authors: Lee Bum Ju , Yim Mi Hong
Published: May 2021

Whether anthropometric or body composition indices are better indicators of metabolic risk remains unclear. The objectives of this study were to compare the association of metabolic risk factors with anthropometric and body composition indices and to identify the better indicators for risk factors in a large-scale Korean population. In this cross-sectional study, the associations of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) as anthropometric indices and trunk fat mass (TFM), percent trunk fat mass (%TFM), whole-body total fat mass (WBTFM), and percent whole-body total fat mass (%WBTFM) as body composition indices with metabolic risk factors were compared by complex-samples multiple logistic regression models based on complex-sample survey data. In men, WHtR, BMI, and TFM were similarly associated with hypertension. Diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypo-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterolemia tended to be more strongly associated with WHtR and WC than body composition indices. Hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia were more strongly associated with WHtR and %TFM than other indices. In women, hypertension tended to be more strongly associated with WHtR than other indices. TFM, %TFM, and WHtR were similarly associated with hyperlipidemia. Diabetes and hypo-HDL cholesterolemia were more strongly associated with WHtR and WC than body composition indices. Hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia were more strongly associated with WHtR and %TFM than other indices. Among six metabolic risk factors, the validity and utility of the anthropometric indices in identifying risk factors tended to be similar to or better than those of the body composition indices, except for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia in men and hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia in women.
Determinants of vessel defects in superficial and deep vascular layers in normal-tension glaucoma using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Lee Jiyun , Park Chan Kee , Park Hae-Young Lopilly
Published: May 2021

We investigated the characteristics of localized vessel density defects (VD) either in the deep or superficial vascular layer of normal-tension glaucoma patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). In this retrospective, cross-sectional study, 74 eyes with localized retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defect were included. The relationships between the widths of the VD in the superficial and deep layer and ocular factors were evaluated. Eyes with greater deep VD were significantly older (P = 0.023). The IOP measured at OCTA exam was significantly related to the width of the deep VD (P = 0.009). By contrast, average ganglion cell inner plexiform layer thickness (GCIPLT) was substantially related to the width of the superficial VD (P = 0.004). In logistic regression analysis, aging was noticeably associated with wider deep VD, whereas worse mean deviation (MD) had a significant association with wider superficial VD (P = 0.001, P = 0.003, respectively). In sum, while changes of the superficial layer seemed an overall ramification of glaucomatous damages, the deep layer was more likely to be affected by factors related to ocular microcirculation, such as IOPs and older age. Thus, looking into the deep vascular layer using OCTA could identify risk factors related to the disturbance in ocular microcirculation.
Dynamic analysis of peripheral blood TCR β-chain CDR3 repertoire in occupational medicamentosa-like dermatitis due to trichloroethylene
Authors: Lin Dafeng , Wang Dianpeng , Li Peimao , Yang Xiangli , Liu Wei , Huang Lu , Zhang Zhimin , Zhang Yanfang , Zhang Wen , Zhang Naixing , Zhang Ming , Huang Xianqing
Published: May 2021

Previously, we had cross-sectionally explored the characteristics of T cell receptor (TCR) repertoires from occupational medicamentosa-like dermatitis due to trichloroethylene (OMDT) patients, now we further analyzed the dynamic features of OMDT TCR repertoires. Peripheral blood TCR β-chain complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR3) genes were detected with the high throughput sequencing in 24 OMDT cases in their acute, chronic and recovery stages, respectively, and in 24 trichloroethylene-exposed healthy controls. The TCR repertoire diversity, TRBV/TRBD/TRBJ gene usage and combination, frequencies of CDR3 nucleotide (nt) and amino acid (aa) sequences in the cases in different stages and in the controls were analyzed. TRBV6-4 and TRBV7-9 frequencies significantly differed between the cases and controls (both P < 6.1 × 10–4). TRBV6-4 combination with TRBJ2-1, TRBJ2-2, TRBJ2-3, and TRBJ2-6, and TRBV7-9 combination with TRBJ2-1 were associated with the stage by OMDT severity (all P < 0.001). Ten CDR3-nt and 7 CDR3-aa sequences in TRBV7-9-TRBJ2-1 combination and 1 CDR3-nt and 1 CDR3-aa sequences in TRBV6-4-TRBJ2-1 combination were identified as associated with the severity of OMDT (all P < 0.001). We revealed further how TCR repertoires vary with the severity in the development of OMDT, and severity-related TCRs may provide important therapeutic targets for OMDT in clinical practice.
Neural correlates of individual variation in two-back working memory and the relationship with fluid intelligence
Authors: Li Guangfei , Chen Yu , Le Thang M. , Wang Wuyi , Tang Xiaoying , Li Chiang-Shan R.
Published: May 2021

Working memory has been examined extensively using the N-back task. However, less is known about the neural bases underlying individual variation in the accuracy rate (AR) and reaction time (RT) as metrics of N-back performance. Whereas AR indexes the overall performance, RT may more specifically reflect the efficiency in updating target identify. Further, studies have associated fluid intelligence (Gf) with working memory, but the cerebral correlates shared between Gf and N-back performance remain unclear. We addressed these issues using the Human Connectome Project dataset. We quantified the differences in AR (critical success index or CSI) and RT between 2- and 0-backs (CSI2–0 and RT2–0) and identified the neural correlates of individual variation in CSI2–0, RT2–0, and Gf, as indexed by the number of correct items scored in the Raven’s Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) test. The results showed that CSI2–0 and RT2–0 were negatively correlated, suggesting that a prolonged response time did not facilitate accuracy. At voxel p < 0.05, FWE-corrected, the pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA), bilateral frontoparietal cortex (biFPC) and right anterior insula (rAI) showed activities in negative correlation with CSI2–0 and positive correlation with RT2–0. In contrast, a cluster in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) bordering the SMA showed activities in positive correlation with CSI2–0 and negative correlation with RT2–0. Further, path analyses showed a significant fit of the model dACC → RT2–0 → CSI2–0, suggesting a critical role of target switching in determining performance accuracy. Individual variations in RT2–0 and Gf were positively correlated, although the effect size was small (f2 = 0.0246). RT2–0 and Gf shared activities both in positive correlation with the preSMA, biFPC, rAI, and dorsal precuneus. These results together suggest inter-related neural substrates of individual variation in N-back performance and highlight a complex relationship in the neural processes supporting 2-back and RSPM performance.
Quantitative modeling of radioactive cesium concentrations in large omnivorous mammals after the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident
Authors: Shuryak Igor
Published: May 2021

Large quantities of radionuclides released by the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident entered terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The resulting radioactive contamination of large omnivorous wild mammals such as wild boar (Sus scrofa) and Asian black bear (Ursus thibetanus) varied greatly depending on location, season, and time after the accident. Quantitative modeling of how such factors influence radionuclide burdens in these species is important for enhancing current knowledge of chronic radionuclide exposure consequences in mammalian populations, and for assessing potential human risks from consumption of contaminated animal meat. Here we modeled the time course of radioactive cesium (134Cs + 137Cs) concentrations in boar and black bears from Fukushima Prefecture over ~ 7 years after the accident, using nonlinear robust and quantile regressions and mixed-effects modeling. To estimate predictive performance, models fitted to the full data set were compared with those fitted only to the first 3.5 years of data, and tested on the last 3.5 years of data. Ecological half-lives for radioactive cesium, and magnitudes and phase shifts for sinusoidal seasonal oscillations in cesium burdens, were estimated by each analysis method for each species. These results can improve the understanding and prediction of radionuclide concentrations in large mammals that inhabit radioactively contaminated areas.
Cinacalcet may suppress kidney enlargement in hemodialysis patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Nakatani Shinya , Nishide Kozo , Okuno Senji , Ishimura Eiji , Kabata Daijiro , Morioka Fumiyuki , Machiba Yuri , Uedono Hideki , Tsuda Akihiro , Shoji Shigeichi , Inaba Masaaki , Mori Katsuhito , Yamakawa Tomoyuki , Emoto Masanori
Published: May 2021

A massively enlarged kidney can impact quality of life of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) patients. A recent in vitro study demonstrated that an allosteric modulator of the calcium sensing receptor decreases adenosine-3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate, an important factor for kidney enlargement in ADPKD. Therefore, the present study was performed to determine whether cinacalcet, a calcium sensing receptor agonist, suppresses kidney enlargement in hemodialysis patients with ADPKD. Alteration of total kidney volume together with clinical parameters was retrospectively examined in 12 hemodialysis patients with ADPKD treated at a single institution in Japan. In the non-cinacalcet group with longer hemodialysis duration (n = 5), total kidney volume had an annual increase of 4.19 ± 1.71% during an overall period of 877 ± 494 days. In contrast, the annual rate of increase in total kidney volume in the cinacalcet group (n = 7) was significantly suppressed after cinacalcet treatment, from 3.26 ± 2.87% during a period of 734 ± 352 days before the start of cinacalcet to − 4.71 ± 6.42% during 918 ± 524 days after initiation of treatment (p = 0.047). The present findings showed that cinacalcet could be a novel therapeutic tool for suppression of kidney enlargement in hemodialysis patients with ADPKD.
Bone loss in hepatitis B virus-infected patients can be associated with greater osteoclastic activity independently of the retroviral use
Authors: Dessordi Renata , Watanabe Ligia Moriguchi , Guimarães Mariana Palma , Romão Elen Almeida , de Lourdes Candolo Martinelli Ana , de Carvalho Santana Rodrigo , Navarro Anderson Marliere
Published: May 2021

Nucleoside/nucleotide analogs such as tenofovir, have been used as long-term therapy for the treatment of hepatitis B and side effects such as the reduction in bone mineral density have been associated with their use. To determine the relationships between bone, hormonal, biochemical, and mineral parameters in patients with hepatitis B treated with nucleoside/nucleotide antiviral. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 81 adult patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was performed to assess bone mineral density. Biochemical analyses were performed for osteocalcin, deoxypyridinoline, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, IGF-1, TSH, testosterone, estradiol, FSH, transaminases, urea, creatinine, calcium, serum and urinary phosphorus, magnesium, and FGF-23, body composition was performed by DXA. Participants, both gender, were divided according to the use of antiretrovirals: Group1: 27 inactive virus carriers without medication; Group2: 27 patients using tenofovir; and Group3: 27 patients using lamivudine or entecavir. DXA readings diagnosed osteopenia in the lumbar spine for 7.4% of individuals in Group1, 15% in Group2, and 3.7% in Group3. For all groups, we observed normal values in bone formation markers, osteocalcin levels as well as parathyroid hormone, insulin growth factor 1, and FGF-23. In all groups, we found increased levels of urinary deoxypyridinoline, a bone resorption marker. Increased levels in the bone resorption markers indicated a high resorptive activity of bone tissue. These data suggested high resorption activity of bone tissue in hepatitis B virus-infected patients independent of the use of antiretrovirals.
Nitrogen factor of common carp Cyprinus carpio fillets with and without skin
Authors: Honzlova Alena , Curdova Helena , Schebestova Lenka , Bartak Pavel , Stara Alzbeta , Priborsky Josef , Koubova Anna , Svobodova Zdenka , Velisek Josef
Published: May 2021

Consumer protection against food adulteration and misleading labelling is integrated into EU legislation, but accurate analysis of the meat content of farmed freshwater fish products is not possible because of the lack of established nitrogen factors for farmed common carp. The aim of this study was to determine nitrogen factors for farmed common carp Cyprinus carpio. Seven-hundred samples collected in 2018–2019 in three harvest seasons (March/April, Jun/July, and October/November) at seven locations in the Czech Republic were analysed for nitrogen, dry matter, protein, ash, and fat content according to standard ISO methods. The recommended nitrogen factor for fat-free common carp fillet with skin is 3.04 ± 0.13 and, for fillet without skin, 2.95 ± 0.12. Availability of nitrogen factors for common carp can help ensure that consumers are purchasing correctly labelled products.
Inhibition of checkpoint kinase 1 potentiates anticancer activity of gemcitabine in bladder cancer cells
Authors: Isono Makoto , Okubo Kazuki , Asano Takako , Sato Akinori
Published: May 2021

Checkpoint kinases (CHKs) are involved in the DNA damage response in many cancer cells. CHK inhibitors have been used in clinical trials in combination with chemotherapeutics; however, their effect against bladder cancer remains unclear. Here, we investigated the efficacy of combining gemcitabine with MK-8776, a novel CHK1 inhibitor, in four bladder cancer cell lines. The effects of gemcitabine and MK-8776 on cell viability, clonogenicity, cell cycle, and apoptosis were examined alongside in vivo efficacy using murine xenograft tumor models. Combined treatment inhibited the viability and colony formation of bladder cancer cells compared to either single treatment. Although gemcitabine (10 nM) alone increased the cell number in S-phase, it increased the cell number in sub-G1 phase when combined with MK-8776 (0.5 µM). Combined treatment enhanced cleaved poly[ADP-ribose]-polymerase expression alongside the number of annexin-V-positive cells, indicating the induction of apoptosis. In vivo, administration of gemcitabine and MK-8776 was well tolerated and suppressed tumor growth. Mechanistically, the combined treatment elevated γH2A.X and suppressed Rad51 expression. Our study demonstrates that MK-8776 and gemcitabine combined induces apoptosis and suppresses proliferation in bladder cancer cells by inhibiting CHKs and DNA repair. Therefore, CHK1 inhibition combined with gemcitabine may be a potential treatment for bladder cancer.
Engineered MATE multidrug transporters reveal two functionally distinct ion-coupling pathways in NorM from Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Raturi Sagar , Nair Asha V. , Shinoda Keiko , Singh Himansha , Bai Boyan , Murakami Satoshi , Fujitani Hideaki , van Veen Hendrik W.
Published: May 2021

Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) transport proteins confer multidrug resistance on pathogenic microorganisms and affect pharmacokinetics in mammals. Our understanding of how MATE transporters work, has mostly relied on protein structures and MD simulations. However, the energetics of drug transport has not been studied in detail. Many MATE transporters utilise the electrochemical H+ or Na+ gradient to drive substrate efflux, but NorM-VC from Vibrio cholerae can utilise both forms of metabolic energy. To dissect the localisation and organisation of H+ and Na+ translocation pathways in NorM-VC we engineered chimaeric proteins in which the N-lobe of H+-coupled NorM-PS from Pseudomonas stutzeri is fused to the C-lobe of NorM-VC, and vice versa. Our findings in drug binding and transport experiments with chimaeric, mutant and wildtype transporters highlight the versatile nature of energy coupling in NorM-VC, which enables adaptation to fluctuating salinity levels in the natural habitat of V. cholerae.
The stop-start control of seismicity by fault bends along the Main Himalayan Thrust
Authors: Sathiakumar Sharadha , Barbot Sylvain
Published: May 2021

The Himalayan megathrust accommodates most of the relative convergence between the Indian and Eurasian plates, producing cycles of blind and surface-breaking ruptures. Elucidating the mechanics of down-dip segmentation of the seismogenic zone is key to better determine seismic hazards in the region. However, the geometry of the Himalayan megathrust and its impact on seismicity remains controversial. Here, we develop seismic cycle simulations tuned to the seismo-geodetic data of the 2015Mw7.8 Gorkha, Nepal earthquake to better constrain the megathrust geometry and its role on the demarcation of partial ruptures. We show that a ramp in the middle of the seismogenic zone is required to explain the termination of the coseismic rupture and the source mechanism of up-dip aftershocks consistently. Alternative models with a wide décollement can only explain the mainshock. Fault structural complexities likely play an important role in modulating the seismic cycle, in particular, the distribution of rupture sizes. Fault bends are capable of both obstructing rupture propagation as well as behave as a source of seismicity and rupture initiation.
Recent advances in multi-component reactions and their mechanistic insights: a triennium review
Authors: John Stephy Elza , Gulati Shivani , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: May 2021

This review summarizes the recent developments in MCRs, incorporating different strategies along with their mechanistic aspects.
Enhancing the feasibility of Pd/C-catalyzed formic acid decomposition for hydrogen generation – catalyst pretreatment, deactivation, and regeneration
Authors: Kosider Axel , Blaumeiser Dominik , Schötz Simon , Preuster Patrick , Bösmann Andreas , Wasserscheid Peter , Libuda Jörg , Bauer Tanja
Published: May 2021

Formic acid decomposition (FAD) generates H2 at low temperatures. CO poisoning inhibits FAD but is lifted under oxidative treatment.
Studies of exsolution and catalytic activity of metal nanocatalysts from parent perovskite
Authors: Chien Andrew C. , Liao Brian Y. , Chen Willy Y.
Published: May 2021

The synthesis of metal nanocatalysts exsolved from A-site deficient lanthanum strontium titanate (La0.4Sr0.4)(NixTi1−x)O3−γ (LST, x = 0, LSTN, x = 0.06, 0.25, 0.5) perovskites and their catalytic properties were presented.
Enhancing the inhibition and adsorption performance of SABIC iron corrosion in sulfuric acid by expired vitamins. Experimental and computational approach
Authors: Abdallah M. , Soliman K. A. , Al-Gorair Arej S. , Al Bahir A. , Al-Fahemi Jabir H. , Motawea M. S. , Al-Juaid Salih S.
Published: May 2021

The inhibition potency of expired thiamine or vitamin B1 (VB1) and riboflavin or vitamin B2 (VB2) against SABIC iron corrosion in 0.5 M H2SO4solutions was investigated using chemical and electrochemical techniques.
Inner filter effect between upconversion nanoparticles and Fe(ii)–1,10-phenanthroline complex for the detection of Sn(ii) and ascorbic acid (AA)
Authors: Song Haining , Zhou Yifei , Li Zexin , Zhou Haifeng , Sun Fenglei , Yuan Zhenlei , Guo Peng , Zhou Guangjun , Yu Xiaoqiang , Hu Jifan
Published: May 2021

Based on the inner filter effect (IFE), we use UCNPs to develop a dual-function sensors, which can realize sensitive and selective detection for the Sn(ii) and ascorbic acid (AA).
Electronic, mechanical, optical and photocatalytic properties of two-dimensional Janus XGaInY (X, Y ;= S, Se and Te) monolayers
Authors: Ahmad Iqtidar , Shahid Ismail , Ali Anwar , Gao Lei , Cai Jinming
Published: May 2021

Janus monolayers with breaking out-of-plane structural symmetries and spontaneous electric polarizations offer new possibilities in the field of two-dimensional materials.
Natural bamboo leaves as dielectric layers for flexible capacitive pressure sensors with adjustable sensitivity and a broad detection range
Authors: Liu Zhihao , Liang Tianlong , Xin Yue , Huang Jinhao , Liang Jionghong , He Xiang , Zhang Chi , Yang Weijia , He Xin
Published: May 2021

Capacitive pressure sensors based on bamboo leaves endow adjustable sensitivity, wide working range and remarkable stability, indicating promising applications in diverse application scenarios.
Correction: Electrochemical investigation and amperometry determination iodate based on ionic liquid/polyoxotungstate/P-doped electrochemically reduced graphene oxide multi-component nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Sharifi Minoo , Dianat Somayeh , Hosseinian Amin
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘Electrochemical investigation and amperometry determination iodate based on ionic liquid/polyoxotungstate/P-doped electrochemically reduced graphene oxide multi-component nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode’ by Minoo Sharifi et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 8993–9007, DOI: 10.1039/D1RA00845E.
Effectiveness and Utility of Visual Scene Displays as Communication Supports for Adults and Children With Complex Communication Needs: Perspectives of Clinicians and Researchers
Authors: Thistle Jennifer , Thiessen Amber
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The aims of this research study were to describe the perspectives of clinicians and researchers regarding the effectiveness of visual scene displays (VSDs) as communication supports in order to inform the translation of research to clinical practice.

Method

An online survey was completed by 298 clinicians and nine VSD researchers. Participants rated the effectiveness of VSDs in supporting a variety of communication functions and their strength of agreement regarding statements of VSD utility.

Results

Regardless of population served, clinicians and researchers rated VSDs as effective at supporting a range of communication functions. Participants also tended to agree with statements of VSD utility.

Conclusions

The current study highlights the perceptions of clinicians and researchers regarding the uses and benefits of VSDs for adults and children with complex communication needs and provides an initial measure of the current translation of research to clinical practice. Results indicate that VSDs can be used to support a variety of communication functions and utilities; however, further work is necessary to explore additional communication functions and delineate similarities and differences of VSD uses for differing populations.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14551344
Battery‐supported unified power quality controller for small hydro‐based isolated power generation
Authors: Tiwari Sachin , Kewat Seema , Singh Bhim , Sanjenbam Chandrakala Devi
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a battery‐supported unified power quality controller (UPQC) for a small hydro‐based isolated power generation is investigated as a voltage and frequency controller. The self‐excited squirrel cage induction generator driven by constant power prime mover (small hydro turbine) has unacceptable voltage, frequency and power quality under non‐linear loads. The battery‐supported UPQC‐based voltage controlled‐voltage source converter is designed, modelled and simulated in MATLAB environment. Here UPQC has series and shunt converters with a battery and it is used to feed the local loads. This small distributed power generation system is capable to feed unbalanced non‐linear loads because a shunt converter is used to take care the compensation of unbalanced loads and it always maintains the source currents balanced and sinusoidal. Moreover, a series converter is used to inject the series voltages in the self‐excited squirrel cage induction generator terminals to regulate the common coupling point voltage during unbalanced non‐linear loads. Performance of a battery‐supported UPQC is also validated experimentally using a laboratory prototype of a 3.7 kW, 230 V, 50 Hz capacitor excited induction generator.