bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies to improve sustainability: an analysis of 120 microenterprises in an emerging economy
Authors: Pardo Martínez Clara Inés , Cotte Poveda Alexander
Published: February 2022

Non-technical summary

Small and medium enterprises generate an elevated environmental footprint, which requires green transformation to achieve sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to describe the intervention process in 120 microenterprises with the aim of improving environmental and sustainability performance in four categories: sustainability, water, energy and solid waste management to determine the importance to promote the sustainability process in this sector as a key factor to contribute to the inclusion and sustainable development.

Technical summary

Global small and medium enterprises (SMEs) represent 90% of global business, creating and maintaining 50% of employment, and in emerging economies, formal SMEs provide 40% of the national gross domestic product and the gap of productivity is approximately 7% of global gross domestic product with respect to large firms. This study analyses the strategies and possibilities to improve sustainability in 120 microenterprises. The project included five stages: the postulation, selection and enrolment; sustainability diagnosis; action plan formulation; the results of implementation and evaluation and the feedback on results. This study demonstrated the importance of integrating sustainability into the business to improve productivity, competitiveness and access to new markets; in many cases, the microentrepreneur is unaware of all possibilities offered by having environmentally friendly processes, which was shown with evidence throughout the study. Approximately 242 action plans were implemented, achieving multiple results that involved knowledge of processes and equipment of microenterprises to measure and improve their environmental performance. The findings of this study demonstrated that microenterprises require adequate support and financial programmes that should be designed and implemented by policymakers with the aim of strengthening this sector, decreasing poverty and promoting sustainable economic growth, environmentally friendly processes and development in developing countries.

Social media summary

Microenterprises have an important role in the economy and have the potential to achieve sustainability processes.
Kinder- und jugendpsychiatrische Notfälle während der zweiten Welle der SARS-CoV2-19-Pandemie
Authors: Allgaier Katharina , Schneider Priska S. , Buck Simone , Reusch Pauline A. , Hagmann Daniela , Barth Gottfried M. , Renner Tobias J.
Published: February 2022

Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Kinder- und jugendpsychiatrische Notfälle während der SARS-CoV2-19-Pandemie werden kontrovers diskutiert. In dieser Studie wird an der KJPPP Tübingen untersucht, inwiefern sich das Notfallaufkommen in der zweiten Welle im Vorjahresvergleich verändert hat. Dabei werden die Anzahl der Notfälle, die Altersstruktur sowie die Diagnosen der Essstörungen und Zwangsstörungen ausgewertet. Methodik: Daten zu allen an der KJPPP Tübingen bestehenden Notfallkontakten (Telefonate, ambulante Vorstellungen, Notaufnahmen) wurden für die Zeiträume 10/2019–01/2020 sowie 10/2020–01/2021 (zweite Welle) untersucht. Ergebnisse: Das Notfallaufkommen war im zweiten Zeitraum mit 319 Vorstellungen um 29.7 %, die reine Patient_innenenanzahl mit 172 Patient_innen um 10.3 % höher als im Vorjahr. Stationäre Notaufnahmen sind um 27.8 % gestiegen. Die Patient_innenzahl der stationären Notaufnahmen war 27.9 % höher. Das Patient_innenklientel war im zweiten Zeitraum mit durchschnittlich 14.8 Jahren etwas älter (erster Zeitraum: 14.2 Jahre). Das Notfallaufkommen der jüngsten Patient_innen (≤ 12.99 Jahre) war im zweiten Zeitraum geringer. Essstörungsdiagnosen finden sich im zweiten, Zwangserkrankungen hingegen im ersten Zeitraum häufiger. Schlussfolgerungen: Eine knapp 30 %-ige Steigerung des Notfallaufkommens zum Zeitpunkt der zweiten Welle der SARS-CoV2-19-Pandemie lässt sich in der KJPPP Tübingen feststellen. Insbesondere für Essstörungen zeigt sich ein deutlicher Anstieg. Um eine am regionalen Bedarf ausgerichtete Planung zu verwirklichen, sollte eine systematische Notfallerfassung an allen deutschen KJPPen realisiert werden.
Quantifying the Fractal Dimension and Morphology of Individual Atmospheric Soot Aggregates
Authors: Pang Yuner , Wang Yuanyuan , Wang Zhicheng , Zhang Yinxiao , Liu Lei , Kong Shaofei , Liu Fengshan , Shi Zongbo , Li Weijun
Published: February 2022

The complex morphology of soot aggregates is a major source of uncertainty in evaluating their warming effects in the atmosphere. Fractal dimension (Df) is a key parameter in quantifying the morphology of soot particles. Previous studies are mostly based on manual identification of soot monomers in electron microscopic images and are hard to provide comparable results in determination of Df. Here we develop a novel image recognition technique to automatically determine the Df of individual soot aggregates from electron microscopy images. The novel method has been shown to be able to trace the small change of the soot Df from an urban tunnel (1.61 ± 0.19) to its exit (1.70 ± 0.15). By applying this new method, we show a substantial difference in average Df of soot particles emitted from vehicles (1.66 ± 0.17) than from biomass burning (1.75 ± 0.18) and coal burning (1.76 ± 0.18). Average Df of soot from an urban atmosphere (1.77 ± 0.18) is close to that from biomass and coal combustion but much lower than that from a rural atmosphere (1.85 ± 0.13). In summary, the new technique provides an automatic, accurate and reliable quantification of soot morphology Df, enabling an improved understanding of soot aging processes and a more accurate modeling of soot impact on their climate.
Subcutaneous adipose tissue expansion mechanisms are similar in early and late onset overweight/obesity
Authors: Arner Peter , Andersson Daniel P. , Arner Erik , Rydén Mikael , Kerr Alastair G.
Published: February 2022

Background/objective

The development of overweight/obesity associates with alterations in white adipose tissue (WAT) cellularity (fat cell size/number) and lipid metabolism, in particular lipolysis. If these changes differ between early/juvenile (EOO < 18 years of age) or late onset overweight/obesity (LOO) is unknown and was presently examined.

Subjects/methods

We included 439 subjects with validated information on body mass index (BMI) at 18 years of age. Using this information and current BMI, subjects were divided into never overweight/obese (BMI < 25 kg/m2), EOO and LOO. Adipocyte size, number, morphology (size in relation to body fat) and lipolysis were determined in subcutaneous abdominal WAT. Body composition and WAT distribution was assessed by dual-X-ray absorptiometry.

Results

Compared with never overweight/obese, EOO and LOO displayed larger WAT amounts in all examined depots, which in subcutaneous WAT was explained by a combination of increased size and number of fat cells in EOO and LOO. EOO had 40% larger subcutaneous fat mass than LOO (p < 0.0001). Visceral WAT mass, WAT morphology and lipolysis did not differ between EOO and LOO except for minor differences in men between the two obesity groups. On average, the increase in BMI per year was 57% higher in subjects with EOO compared to LOO (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Early onset overweight/obesity causes a more rapid and pronounced accumulation of subcutaneous WAT than adult onset. However, fat mass expansion measures including WAT cellularity, morphology and fat cell lipolysis do not differ in an important way suggesting that similar mechanisms of WAT growth operate in EOO and LOO.
Association of perinatal sentinel events, placental pathology and cerebral MRI in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy receiving therapeutic hypothermia
Authors: Hellwig Lia , Brada Muriel , Held Ulrike , Hagmann Cornelia , Bode Peter , Frontzek Karl , Frey Bernhard , Brotschi Barbara , Grass Beate
Published: February 2022

Objective

Placental pathology might provide information on the etiology of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). To evaluate the association of perinatal sentinel events (PSE), placental pathology and cerebral MRI in cooled neonates with moderate/severe HIE.

Study design

Retrospective analysis of 52 neonates with HIE registered in the Swiss National Asphyxia and Cooling Register 2011–2019. PSE and Non-PSE groups were tested for association with placental pathology. Placental pathology categories were correlated with MRI scores.

Results

In total, 14/52 neonates (27%) had a PSE, 38 neonates (73%) did not have a PSE. There was no evidence for an association of occurrence of PSE and placental pathologies (p = 0.364). Neonates with high MRI scores tended to have more often chronic pathologies in their placentas than acute pathologies or normal placentas (p = 0.067).

Conclusion

Independent of the occurrence of PSE, chronic placental pathologies might be associated with more severe brain injury and needs further study.
Biomarkers of response to PD-1 pathway blockade
Authors: Li Hanxiao , van der Merwe P. Anton , Sivakumar Shivan
Published: February 2022

The binding of T cell immune checkpoint proteins programmed death 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) to their ligands allows immune evasion by tumours. The development of therapeutic antibodies, termed checkpoint inhibitors, that bind these molecules or their ligands, has provided a means to release this brake on the host anti-tumour immune response. However, these drugs are costly, are associated with potentially severe side effects, and only benefit a small subset of patients. It is therefore important to identify biomarkers that discriminate between responders and non-responders. This review discusses the determinants for a successful response to antibodies that bind PD-1 or its ligand PD-L1, dividing them into markers found in the tumour biopsy and those in non-tumour samples. It provides an update on the established predictive biomarkers (tumour PD-L1 expression, tumour mismatch repair deficiency and tumour mutational burden) and assesses the evidence for new potential biomarkers.
Ultrafast infrared nano-imaging of far-from-equilibrium carrier and vibrational dynamics
Authors: Nishida Jun , Johnson Samuel C. , Chang Peter T. S. , Wharton Dylan M. , Dönges Sven A. , Khatib Omar , Raschke Markus B.
Published: February 2022

Ultrafast infrared nano-imaging has demonstrated access to ultrafast carrier dynamics on the nanoscale in semiconductor, correlated-electron, or polaritonic materials. However, mostly limited to short-lived transient states, the contrast obtained has remained insufficient to probe important long-lived excitations, which arise from many-body interactions induced by strong perturbation among carriers, lattice phonons, or molecular vibrations. Here, we demonstrate ultrafast infrared nano-imaging based on excitation modulation and sideband detection to characterize electron and vibration dynamics with nano- to micro-second lifetimes. As an exemplary application to quantum materials, in phase-resolved ultrafast nano-imaging of the photoinduced insulator-to-metal transition in vanadium dioxide, a distinct transient nano-domain behavior is quantified. In another application to lead halide perovskites, transient vibrational nano-FTIR spatially resolves the excited-state polaron-cation coupling underlying the photovoltaic response. These examples show how heterodyne pump-probe nano-spectroscopy with low-repetition excitation extends ultrafast infrared nano-imaging to probe elementary processes in quantum and molecular materials in space and time.
Bacterial N4-methylcytosine as an epigenetic mark in eukaryotic DNA
Authors: Rodriguez Fernando , Yushenova Irina A. , DiCorpo Daniel , Arkhipova Irina R.
Published: February 2022

DNA modifications are used to regulate gene expression and defend against invading genetic elements. In eukaryotes, modifications predominantly involve C5-methylcytosine (5mC) and occasionally N6-methyladenine (6mA), while bacteria frequently use N4-methylcytosine (4mC) in addition to 5mC and 6mA. Here we report that 4mC can serve as an epigenetic mark in eukaryotes. Bdelloid rotifers, tiny freshwater invertebrates with transposon-poor genomes rich in foreign genes, lack canonical eukaryotic C5-methyltransferases for 5mC addition, but encode an amino-methyltransferase, N4CMT, captured from bacteria >60 Mya. N4CMT deposits 4mC at active transposons and certain tandem repeats, and fusion to a chromodomain shapes its “histone-read-DNA-write” architecture recognizing silent chromatin marks. Furthermore, amplification of SETDB1 H3K9me3 histone methyltransferases yields variants preferentially binding 4mC-DNA, suggesting “DNA-read-histone-write” partnership to maintain chromatin-based silencing. Our results show how non-native DNA methyl groups can reshape epigenetic systems to silence transposons and demonstrate the potential of horizontal gene transfer to drive regulatory innovation in eukaryotes.
Atomic structure evolution related to the Invar effect in Fe-based bulk metallic glasses
Authors: Firlus Alexander , Stoica Mihai , Michalik Stefan , Schäublin Robin E. , Löffler Jörg F.
Published: February 2022

The Invar effect is universally observed in Fe-based bulk metallic glasses. However, there is limited understanding on how this effect manifests at the atomic scale. Here, we use in-situ synchrotron-based high-energy X-ray diffraction to study the structural transformations of (Fe71.2B24Y4.8)96Nb4 and (Fe73.2B22Y4.8)95Mo5 bulk metallic glasses around the Curie temperature to understand the Invar effect they exhibit. The first two diffraction peaks shift in accordance with the macroscopically measured thermal expansion, which reveals the Invar effect. Additionally, the nearest-neighbor Fe–Fe pair distance correlates well with the macroscopic thermal expansion. In-situ X-ray diffraction is thus able to elucidate the Invar effect in Fe-based metallic glasses at the atomic scale. Here, we find that the Invar effect is not just a macroscopic effect but has a clear atomistic equivalent in the average Fe–Fe pair distance and also shows itself in higher-order atomic shells composed of multiple atom species.
Leveraging the multivalent p53 peptide-MdmX interaction to guide the improvement of small molecule inhibitors
Authors: Cheng Xiyao , Chen Rong , Zhou Ting , Zhang Bailing , Li Zichun , Gao Meng , Huang Yongqi , Liu Huili , Su Zhengding
Published: February 2022

Overexpressed Mdm2 and its 7homolog MdmX impair p53 activity in many cancers. Small molecules mimicking a p53 peptide can effectively inhibit Mdm2 but not MdmX. Here, we show a strategy for improving lead compounds for Mdm2 and MdmX inhibition based on the multivalency of the p53 peptide. Crystal structures of MdmX complexed with nutlin-3a, a strong Mdm2 inhibitor but a weak one for MdmX, reveal that nutlin-3a fits into the ligand binding pocket of MdmX mimicking the p53 peptide. However, due to distinct flexibility around the MdmX ligand binding pocket, the structures are missing many important intermolecular interactions that exist in the MdmX/p53 peptide and Mdm2/nultin-3a complexes. By targeting these flexible regions, we identify allosteric and additive fragments that enhance the binding affinity of nutlin-3a for MdmX, leading to potent Mdm2/MdmX inhibitors with anticancer activity. Our work provides a practical approach to drug design for signal transduction therapy.
Cross-cohort gut microbiome associations with immune checkpoint inhibitor response in advanced melanoma
Authors: Lee Karla A. , Thomas Andrew Maltez , Bolte Laura A. , Björk Johannes R. , de Ruijter Laura Kist , Armanini Federica , Asnicar Francesco , Blanco-Miguez Aitor , Board Ruth , Calbet-Llopart Neus , Derosa Lisa , Dhomen Nathalie , Brooks Kelly , Harland Mark , Harries Mark , Leeming Emily R. , Lorigan Paul , Manghi Paolo , Marais Richard , Newton-Bishop Julia , Nezi Luigi , Pinto Federica , Potrony Miriam , Puig Susana , Serra-Bellver Patricio , Shaw Heather M. , Tamburini Sabrina , Valpione Sara , Vijay Amrita , Waldron Levi , Zitvogel Laurence , Zolfo Moreno , de Vries Elisabeth G. E. , Nathan Paul , Fehrmann Rudolf S. N. , Bataille Véronique , Hospers Geke A. P. , Spector Tim D. , Weersma Rinse K. , Segata Nicola
Published: February 2022

The composition of the gut microbiome has been associated with clinical responses to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment, but there is limited consensus on the specific microbiome characteristics linked to the clinical benefits of ICIs. We performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing of stool samples collected before ICI initiation from five observational cohorts recruiting ICI-naive patients with advanced cutaneous melanoma (n = 165). Integrating the dataset with 147 metagenomic samples from previously published studies, we found that the gut microbiome has a relevant, but cohort-dependent, association with the response to ICIs. A machine learning analysis confirmed the link between the microbiome and overall response rates (ORRs) and progression-free survival (PFS) with ICIs but also revealed limited reproducibility of microbiome-based signatures across cohorts. Accordingly, a panel of species, including Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, Roseburia spp. and Akkermansia muciniphila, associated with responders was identified, but no single species could be regarded as a fully consistent biomarker across studies. Overall, the role of the human gut microbiome in ICI response appears more complex than previously thought, extending beyond differing microbial species simply present or absent in responders and nonresponders. Future studies should adopt larger sample sizes and take into account the complex interplay of clinical factors with the gut microbiome over the treatment course.
The microstructure and the origin of the Venus from Willendorf
Authors: Weber Gerhard W. , Lukeneder Alexander , Harzhauser Mathias , Mitteroecker Philipp , Wurm Lisa , Hollaus Lisa-Maria , Kainz Sarah , Haack Fabian , Antl-Weiser Walpurga , Kern Anton
Published: February 2022

The origin and key details of the making of the ~ 30,000 year old Venus from Willendorf remained a secret since its discovery for more than a hundred years. Based on new micro-computed tomography scans with a resolution of 11.5 µm, our analyses can explain the origin as well as the choice of material and particular surface features. It allowed the identification of internal structure properties and a chronological assignment of the Venus oolite to the Mesozoic. Sampling numerous oolite occurrences ranging ~ 2500 km from France to the Ukraine, we found a strikingly close match for grain size distribution near Lake Garda in the Southern Alps (Italy). This might indicate considerable mobility of Gravettian people and long-time transport of artefacts from South to North by modern human groups before the Last Glacial Maximum.
Large university with high COVID-19 incidence is not associated with excess cases in non-student population
Authors: Bharti Nita , Lambert Brian , Exten Cara , Faust Christina , Ferrari Matthew , Robinson Anthony
Published: February 2022

Large US colleges and universities that re-opened campuses in the fall of 2020 and the spring of 2021 experienced high per capita rates of COVID-19. Returns to campus were controversial because they posed a potential risk to surrounding communities. A large university in Pennsylvania that returned to in-person instruction for Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 semesters reported high incidence of COVID-19 among students. However, the co-located non-student resident population in the county experienced fewer COVID-19 cases per capita than reported in neighboring counties. Activity patterns from mobile devices indicate that the non-student resident population near the university restricted their movements during the pandemic more than residents of neighboring counties. Respiratory virus prevention and management in student and non-student populations requires different, specifically targeted strategies.
External quality assessment of HIV-1 DNA quantification assays used in the clinical setting in Italy
Authors: Vicenti Ilaria , Dragoni Filippo , Giannini Alessia , Casabianca Anna , Lombardi Francesca , Di Sante Laura , Turriziani Ombretta , Racca Sara , Paolucci Stefania , Lai Alessia , Bon Isabella , Abbate Isabella , Rozera Gabriella , Belmonti Simone , Scutari Rossana , Alteri Claudia , Saladini Francesco , Zazzi Maurizio ,   Italian HIV DNA Network, Orlandi Chiara , Magnani Mauro , Di Giambenedetto Simona , Longo Roberta , Menzo Stefano , Di Carlo Daniele , Mazzuti Laura , Ardemagni Anna , Clementi Massimo , Baldanti Fausto , Giardina Federica , Bergna Annalisa , Balotta Claudia , Bertoldi Alessia , Capobianchi Maria Rosaria , Ceccherini-Silberstein Francesca , Antonello Maria , Perno Carlo Federico , Andreoni Massimo
Published: February 2022

Total cell-associated HIV-1 DNA is a surrogate marker of the HIV-1 reservoir, however, certified systems for its quantification are not available. The Italian HIV DNA Network was launched to validate HIV-1 DNA quantification methods in use at University and Hospital labs. A quality control panel including HIV-1 DNA standards, reconstructed blood samples (RBSs) and DNA from different HIV-1 subtypes was blindly tested by 12 participating labs by quantitative real-time PCR (n = 6), droplet digital PCR (n = 3) or both (n = 3). The median 95% hit rate was 4.6 (3.7–5.5) copies per test and linearity in the tested range was excellent (R2 = 1.000 [1.000–1.000]). The median values obtained across labs were 3,370 (2,287–4,245), 445 (299–498), 59 (40–81) and 7 (6–11) HIV-1 DNA copies, for the 3,584, 448, 56 and 7-copy standards, respectively. With RBSs, measured values were within twofold with respect to the median in two thirds of cases. HIV-1 subtypes were missed (CRF01_AE by 3 labs) or underestimated by > 1 log (subtypes A, C, D, F by one lab; CRF01_AE by one lab; CRF02_AG by one lab). The overall performance was excellent with HIV-1 DNA standards, however detection of different HIV-1 subtypes must be improved.
Contrasting assembly mechanisms and drivers of soil rare and abundant bacterial communities in 22-year continuous and non-continuous cropping systems
Authors: Su Yan , Hu Yanxia , Zi Haiyun , Chen Yi , Deng Xiaopeng , Hu Binbin , Jiang Yonglei
Published: February 2022

Despite many studies on the influence of cropping practices on soil microbial community structure, little is known about ecological patterns of rare and abundant microbial communities in response to different tobacco cropping systems. Here, using the high-throughput sequencing technique, we investigated the impacts of two different cropping systems on soil biochemical properties and the microbial community composition of abundant and rare taxa and its driving factors in continuous and rotational tobacco cropping systems in the mountain lands of Yunnan, China. Our results showed that distinct co-occurrence patterns and driving forces for abundant and rare taxa across the different cropping systems. The abundant taxa were mainly constrained by stochastic processes in both cropping systems. In contrast, rare taxa in continuous cropping fields were mainly influenced by environmental perturbation (cropping practice), while governed by deterministic processes under rotational cropping. The α-diversity indices of rare taxa tended to be higher than those of the abundant ones in the two cropping systems. Furthermore, the network topologies of rare taxa were more complex than those of the abundant taxa in the two cropping systems. These results highlight that rare taxa rather than abundant ones play important roles in maintaining ecosystem diversity and sustaining the stability of ecosystem functions, especially in continuous cropping systems.
Tumor RNA transfected DCs derived from iPS cells elicit cytotoxicity against cancer cells induced from colorectal cancer patients in vitro
Authors: Maruoka Shimpei , Ojima Toshiyasu , Iwamoto Hiromitsu , Kitadani Junya , Tabata Hirotaka , Tominaga Shinta , Katsuda Masahiro , Hayata Keiji , Takeuchi Akihiro , Yamaue Hiroki
Published: February 2022

Significant efficacy of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in generating DCs for cancer vaccine therapy was suggested in our previous studies. In clinical application of DC vaccine therapy, however, few DC vaccine systems have shown strong clinical response. To enhance immunogenicity in the DC vaccine, we transfected patient-derived iPSDCs with in vitro transcriptional RNA (ivtRNA), which was obtained from tumors of three patients with colorectal cancer. We investigated iPSDCs-ivtRNA which were induced by transfecting ivtRNA obtained from tumors of three colorectal cancer patients, and examined its antitumor effect. Moreover, we analyzed neoantigens expressed in colorectal cancer cells and examined whether iPSDCs-ivtRNA induced cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) against the predicted neoantigens. CTLs activated by iPSDCs-ivtRNA exhibited cytotoxic activity against the tumor spheroids in all three patients with colorectal cancer. Whole-exome sequencing revealed 1251 nonsynonymous mutations and 2155 neoantigens (IC50 < 500 nM) were predicted. For IFN-γ ELISPOT assay, these candidate neoantigens were further prioritised and 12 candidates were synthesized. IFN-γ ELISPOT assay revealed that the CTLs induced by iPSDCs-ivtRNA responded to one of the candidate neoantigens. In vitro CTLs obtained by transfecting tumor-derived RNA into iPSDCs derived from three patients with colorectal cancer showed potent tumor-specific killing effect.
Predicting the total PAHs concentrations in sediments from selected congeners using a multiple linear relationship
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Xu Huaping , Qu Xiaolei , Yang Kun , Lin Daohui
Published: February 2022

In this study, we observed that four congeners, including naphthalene (Nap), acenaphthylene (Acy), phenanthrene (Phe), and benz(a)anthracene (BaA), are the characteristic congeners for predicting the emission and the sediment concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). A novel multiple relationship of the total PAHs concentrations (C∑PAHs) in sediments with the concentrations of four congeners was established (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.95) using published data over the past 30 years. Moreover, the multiple linear relationship of the total PAHs emission factors with the emission factors of four congeners was also established (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.99). Interestingly, the ratio of multicomponents coefficient from the multiple linear relationship in sediments to that from the multiple linear relationship in emission sources correlated positively with octanol–water partition coefficient (logKow) (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.88) of the four PAHs congeners. Therefore, a novel model was established to predict CΣPAHs in sediments using the emissions and logKow of the four characteristic PAHs congeners. The percent sample deviation between calculated C∑PAHs and their observed values was 54%, suggesting the established model can accurately predict CΣPAHs in sediments.
Hemodynamic variations in arterial wave reflection associated with the application of increasing levels of PEEP in healthy subjects
Authors: Belfiore Jacopo , Brogi Etrusca , Nicolini Niccolo , Deffenu Davide , Forfori Francesco , Palombo Carlo
Published: February 2022

Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) may affect arterial wave propagation and reflection, thus influencing ventricular loading conditions. The aim of the study was to investigate the hemodynamic variations in arterial wave reflection (i.e., wave reflection time, augmentation index, left ventricular ejection time, diastolic time, SEVR) associated with the application of increasing levels of PEEP in healthy subjects. We conducted a prospective observational study. Study population was selected from students and staff. Pulse contour wave analysis was performed from the right carotid artery during stepwise increase in PEEP levels (from 0 cmH2O, 5 cmH20, 10 cmH2O) with applanation tonometry. Sixty-two healthy volunteers were recruited. There were no significant changes in heart rate, augmentation index (AIx), left ventricular ejection time, Diastolic time (DT) among all of the different steps. A significant increase of time to the inflection point (Ti) was observed during all steps of the study. Diastolic area under the curve (AUC) divided by systolic-AUC (SEVR) increased from baseline to PEEP = 5 cmH2O, and from baseline to PEEP = 10 cmH2O. AIx and Ti were significantly correlated (directly) at the baseline and during PEEP = 10 cmH2O. Ti and DT were significantly correlated at the baseline and during PEEP = 5 cmH2O. In our preliminary results, low levels of PEEP played a role in the interaction between the heart and the vascular system, apparently mediated by a prolongation of the diastolic phase and a reduction in the systolic work of the heart.

Clinical trials registration number: NCT03294928, 19/09/2017.
Intralobular distribution of ovarian-like stroma in pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms: a discussion on its tumorigenesis
Authors: Fukumura Yuki , Kinowaki Yuko , Matsuda Yoko , Takase Masaru , Tonosaki Momoko , Minagawa Masaaki , Saiura Akio , Tanabe Minoru , Okano Keiichi , Suzuki Yasuyuki , Kato Kota , Yao Takashi
Published: February 2022

Pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) has two histological components: tumor epithelia and ovarian-like stroma (OLS). To examine the progression and changes in pancreatic MCNs, we analyzed the distribution, amount, immunohistochemical phenotype, presence of theca cells of OLS, and tumor epithelium in 45 surgically resected MCN cases, comparing them with tumor sizes. The OLS data of female MCN cases were also compared between those who were ≤ 51 years old and those > 51 years old to see the effect of menopause on MCN histology. Non-mucinous type epithelium was present in all low-grade MCNs, but its ratio decreased with tumor size (p < 0.001), suggesting that epithelial mucinous changes are a progression phenomenon. The intralobular distribution of OLS was observed in 28.8% of MCN cases and was related to smaller tumor size (p < 0.0001), suggesting intralobular involvement of early MCNs. The nuclear expression of β-catenin and the cytoplasmic expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) was observed in almost all OLS. OLS tended to be lesser among female cases aged > 51 years than those ≤ 51 years old, however it did not reach statistical significance. This is the first study to show the intralobular distribution of OLS.
Doubling of annual forest carbon loss over the tropics during the early twenty-first century
Authors: Feng Yu , Zeng Zhenzhong , Searchinger Timothy D. , Ziegler Alan D. , Wu Jie , Wang Dashan , He Xinyue , Elsen Paul R. , Ciais Philippe , Xu Rongrong , Guo Zhilin , Peng Liqing , Tao Yiheng , Spracklen Dominick V. , Holden Joseph , Liu Xiaoping , Zheng Yi , Xu Peng , Chen Ji , Jiang Xin , Song Xiao-Peng , Lakshmi Venkataraman , Wood Eric F. , Zheng Chunmiao
Published: February 2022

Previous estimates of tropical forest carbon loss in the twenty-first century using satellite data typically focus on its magnitude, whereas regional loss trajectories and associated drivers are rarely reported. Here we used different high-resolution satellite datasets to show a doubling of gross tropical forest carbon loss worldwide from 0.97 ± 0.16 PgC yr−1 in 2001–2005 to 1.99 ± 0.13 PgC yr−1 in 2015–2019. This increase in carbon loss from forest conversion is higher than in bookkeeping models forced by land-use statistical data, which show no trend or a slight decline in land-use emissions in the early twenty-first century. Most (82%) of the forest carbon loss is at some stages associated with large-scale commodity or small-scale agriculture activities, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia. We find that ~70% of former forest lands converted to agriculture in 2001–2019 remained so in 2020, confirming a dominant role of agriculture in long-term pan-tropical carbon reductions on formerly forested landscapes. The acceleration and high rate of forest carbon loss in the twenty-first century suggest that existing strategies to reduce forest loss are not successful; and this failure underscores the importance of monitoring deforestation trends following the new pledges made in Glasgow.
Out-of-equilibrium phonons in gated superconducting switches
Authors: Ritter M. F. , Crescini N. , Haxell D. Z. , Hinderling M. , Riel H. , Bruder C. , Fuhrer A. , Nichele F.
Published: February 2022

Recent experiments have suggested that superconductivity in metallic nanowires can be suppressed by the application of modest gate voltages. The source of this gate action has been debated and either attributed to an electric-field effect or to small leakage currents. Here we show that the suppression of superconductivity in titanium nitride nanowires on silicon substrates does not depend on the presence or absence of an electric field at the nanowire, but requires a current of high-energy electrons. The suppression is most efficient when electrons are injected into the nanowire, but similar results are obtained when electrons are passed between two remote electrodes. This is explained by the decay of high-energy electrons into phonons, which propagate through the substrate and affect superconductivity in the nanowire by generating quasiparticles. By studying the switching probability distribution of the nanowire, we also show that high-energy electron emission leads to a much broader phonon energy distribution compared with the case where superconductivity is suppressed by Joule heating near the nanowire.
Neuronal–glial communication perturbations in murine SOD1G93A spinal cord
Authors: MacLean Michael , López-Díez Raquel , Vasquez Carolina , Gugger Paul F. , Schmidt Ann Marie
Published: February 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable disease characterized by proteinaceous aggregate accumulation and neuroinflammation culminating in rapidly progressive lower and upper motor neuron death. To interrogate cell-intrinsic and inter-cell type perturbations in ALS, single-nucleus RNA sequencing was performed on the lumbar spinal cord in the murine ALS modelSOD1G93Atransgenic and littermate control mice at peri-symptomatic onset stage of disease, age 90 days. This work uncovered perturbed tripartite synapse functions, complement activation and metabolic stress in the affected spinal cord; processes evidenced by cell death and proteolytic stress-associated gene sets. Concomitantly, these pro-damage events in the spinal cord co-existed with dysregulated reparative mechanisms. This work provides a resource of cell-specific niches in the ALS spinal cord and asserts that interwoven dysfunctional neuronal-glial communications mediating neurodegeneration are underway prior to overt disease manifestation and are recapitulated, in part, in the human post-mortem ALS spinal cord.
Social networks and the conservation of fish
Authors: Villegas-Ríos David , Jacoby David M. P. , Mourier Johann
Published: February 2022

Despite our critical dependence on aquatic wildlife, we lack a complete understanding of the drivers of population stability and structure for most fish species. Social network analysis has been increasingly used to investigate animal societies as it explicitly links individual decision-making to population-level processes and demography. While the study of social structure is of great ecological interest, it is also potentially important for species of economic value or of conservation concern. To date however, there has been little focus on how social processes are likely to influence the conservation of fish populations. Here we identify applications for how a social network approach can help address broad fish conservation themes such as population structure, biological invasions or fisheries management. We discuss the burgeoning opportunities offered and challenges still faced by current technologies to integrate social network approaches within fish conservation.
Coupled electronic and magnetic excitations in the cuprates and their role in the superconducting transition
Authors: Restrepo Francisco , Chatterjee Utpal , Gu Genda , Xu Hao , Morr Dirk K. , Campuzano Juan Carlos
Published: February 2022

The formation of Cooper pairs, a bound state of two electrons of opposite spin and momenta by exchange of a phonon, is a defining feature of conventional superconductivity. In the cuprate high temperature superconductors, even though the superconducting state also consists of Cooper pairs, the pairing mechanism remains intensely debated. Here, we investigate superconducting pairing in the Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ (Bi2212) cuprate by employing spectral functions obtained from angle-resolved photoemission as input to the Bethe-Salpeter equation. Assuming Cooper pairing is driven by spin fluctuations, we construct the spin-fluctuation-mediated pairing interaction and use it to compute the eigenfunctions and eigenvalues of the Bethe-Salpeter equation for multiple Bi2212 samples. The leading d-wave eigenvalue increases as the temperature is decreased toward Tc, reaching a value of approximately 1 at the Tc corresponding to each doping value. This suggests that spin fluctuations can approximately account for Tc and mediate pairing in the cuprate superconductors.
A human breast cancer-derived xenograft and organoid platform for drug discovery and precision oncology
Authors: Guillen Katrin P. , Fujita Maihi , Butterfield Andrew J. , Scherer Sandra D. , Bailey Matthew H. , Chu Zhengtao , DeRose Yoko S. , Zhao Ling , Cortes-Sanchez Emilio , Yang Chieh-Hsiang , Toner Jennifer , Wang Guoying , Qiao Yi , Huang Xiaomeng , Greenland Jeffery A. , Vahrenkamp Jeffery M. , Lum David H. , Factor Rachel E. , Nelson Edward W. , Matsen Cindy B. , Poretta Jane M. , Rosenthal Regina , Beck Anna C. , Buys Saundra S. , Vaklavas Christos , Ward John H. , Jensen Randy L. , Jones Kevin B. , Li Zheqi , Oesterreich Steffi , Dobrolecki Lacey E. , Pathi Satya S. , Woo Xing Yi , Berrett Kristofer C. , Wadsworth Mark E. , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Lewis Michael T. , Marth Gabor T. , Gertz Jason , Varley Katherine E. , Welm Bryan E. , Welm Alana L.
Published: February 2022

Models that recapitulate the complexity of human tumors are urgently needed to develop more effective cancer therapies. We report a bank of human patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) and matched organoid cultures from tumors that represent the greatest unmet need: endocrine-resistant, treatment-refractory and metastatic breast cancers. We leverage matched PDXs and PDX-derived organoids (PDxO) for drug screening that is feasible and cost-effective with in vivo validation. Moreover, we demonstrate the feasibility of using these models for precision oncology in real time with clinical care in a case of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with early metastatic recurrence. Our results uncovered a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug with high efficacy against the models. Treatment with this therapy resulted in a complete response for the individual and a progression-free survival (PFS) period more than three times longer than their previous therapies. This work provides valuable methods and resources for functional precision medicine and drug development for human breast cancer.
Atmospheric chemistry of (Z)- and (E)-1,2-dichloroethene: kinetics and mechanisms of the reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and O3
Authors: Sulbaek Andersen Mads P. , Volkova Aleksandra , Hass Sofie A. , Lengkong Jonathan W. , Hovanessian Dvien , Sølling Theis I. , Wallington Timothy J. , Nielsen Ole J.
Published: February 2022

A comprehensive experimental study of the atmospheric chemistry of (Z)- and (E)-CHClCHCl. The compounds have short atmospheric lifetimes, low photochemical ozone creation potentials, and show a substantial Cl-elimination pathway for the OH-adduct.
Effects of stearyl alcohol monolayer on the structure, dynamics and vibrational sum frequency generation spectroscopy of interfacial water
Authors: Das Banshi , Chandra Amalendu
Published: February 2022

The nature of a water surface covered by a monolayer of stearyl alcohol (STA) is investigated by means of molecular dynamics simulations and vibrational sum frequency generation spectral calculations.
Role of density and electrostatic interactions in the viscosity and non-newtonian behavior of ionic liquids – a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Bernardino Kalil , Ribeiro Mauro C. C.
Published: February 2022

Both viscosity and the shear-thinning of ionic liquids are determined mainly by ionic interaction, with density having a secondary effect.
The fast-growing field of photo-driven theranostics based on aggregation-induced emission
Authors: Zhang Zhijun , Kang Miaomiao , Tan Hui , Song Nan , Li Meng , Xiao Peihong , Yan Dingyuan , Zhang Liping , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2022

This review summarized the progression of AIEgen-based photo-driven theranostics emphasizing on design strategies for efficient photosensitization, photothermal conversion and multimodal functionalities by adjusting the excited energy dissipation.
Effect of cysteine thiols on the catalytic and anticancer activity of Ru(ii) sulfonyl-ethylenediamine complexes
Authors: Chen Feng , Romero-Canelón Isolda , Habtemariam Abraha , Song Ji-Inn , Banerjee Samya , Clarkson Guy J. , Song Lijiang , Prokes Ivan , Sadler Peter J.
Published: February 2022

Sulfonyl ethylenediamine Ru(ii) arene transfer hydrogenation catalysts can have high anticancer activity, but react rapidly with thiols, forming bridged dinuclear complexes.
Surface photovoltage dynamics at passivated silicon surfaces: influence of substrate doping and surface termination
Authors: Pierucci Debora , Silly Mathieu G. , Tissot Heloise , Hollander Philippe , Sirotti Fausto , Rochet Francois
Published: February 2022

We have monitored the temporal evolution of the band bending at controlled silicon surfaces after a fs laser pump excitation.
Single-atom catalysts for the upgrading of biomass-derived molecules: an overview of their preparation, properties and applications
Authors: Vasconcelos Sancler C. , Marchini Lucas , Lima Carolina G. S. , Madriaga Vinicius G. C. , Ribeiro Ruan S. A. , Rossa Vinicius , Ferreira Luanne E. M. , de C. da Silva Fernando , Ferreira Vitor F. , Passos Fabio Barboza , Varma Rajender S. , Paixão Márcio W. , Lima Thiago M.
Published: February 2022

Developing more efficient and greener catalytic strategies for upgrading biomass to value-added chemicals and fuels is crucial for a more sustainable future. Recently, single-atom catalysts have played an important role in this mission.
Low-cost and rapid prototyping of integrated electrochemical microfluidic platforms using consumer-grade off-the-shelf tools and materials
Authors: Mohd Asri Mohd Afiq , Mak Wing Cheung , Norazman Siti Azizah , Nordin Anis Nurashikin
Published: February 2022

Fabrication of laminated microfluidic devices with integrated electrochemical sensors using off-the-shelf tools and materials.
Synthesis and characterization of template-mediated mesoporous alumina nanostructures with efficient and fast adsorption of Congo red from aqueous solutions
Authors: Mishra Geetanjali , Das Sanjit , Jena Priyalisa , Dash Barsha
Published: February 2022

This article summaries an approach for the removal of organic dyes like Congo red using mesoporous alumina. Industrial effluents that contain dyes need to be treated before being discharged into surface water.
Unsymmetrical PEG-substituted tris(triazolyl)amines as bi-functional surfactants for copper-catalyzed aerobic oxidation of alcohols in water
Authors: Nakarajouyphon Vasut , Bunchuay Thanthapatra , Yoshinari Nobuto , Konno Takumi , Sangtrirutnugul Preeyanuch
Published: February 2022

Unsymmetric tris(triazolyl)amine surfactants with mPEG550 and mPEG2000 substituents efficiently promote copper-catalyzed alcohol oxidation in water.
Encapsulation of perovskite quantum dots into a LnIII-incorporating polymer matrix to achieve white light emission
Authors: Jiang Minghui , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Bao , Feng Yaqing
Published: February 2022

Encapsulation of CsPbCl1.5Br1.5 quantum dots (QDs) using LnIII-incorporating polymers (red light, green light emission) obtained by copolymerization of terpyridine-based LnIII complexes with methyl acrylate (MA) is realized for white light emission.
Fabrication of a novel magnetic rubidium ion-imprinted polymer for selective separation
Authors: Jiang Chuanyang , Fang Ming , Huang An , Han Shikui , Jin Guan-Ping
Published: February 2022

A novel magnetic ion-imprinted polymer (MIIP) for Rb+ was synthesized by combining the surface imprinting technology with the magnetic separation technology.
Cationic polymerization of butadiene using alkyl aluminum compounds as co-initiators: an efficient approach toward solid polybutadienes
Authors: Rozentsvet Victor A. , Ulyanova Daria M. , Sablina Nelly A. , Kostjuk Sergei V. , Tolstoy Peter M. , Novakov Ivan A.
Published: February 2022

Solid, soluble in organic solvents polybutadienes with reduced unsaturation and high glass transition and softening points were synthesized for the first time.
A conformational role for NifW in the maturation of molybdenum nitrogenase P-cluster
Authors: Van Stappen Casey , Jiménez-Vicente Emilio , Pérez-González Ana , Yang Zhi-Yong , Seefeldt Lance C. , DeBeer Serena , Dean Dennis R. , Decamps Laure
Published: February 2022

Upon binding of NifW, a subtle conformation change occurs in NifD2K2, decreasing the distance between the two [4Fe:4S] clusters precursors of the P-cluster in nitrogenase.
Quasi-aromatic Möbius chelates of cadmium(ii) nitrite and/or nitrate
Authors: Mahmoudi Ghodrat , Alizadeh Vali , Castiñeiras Alfonso , Afkhami Farhad , Mitoraj Mariusz P. , Szczepanik Dariusz W. , Konyaeva Irina A. , Robeyns Koen , Safin Damir A.
Published: February 2022

The two new quasi-aromatic Möbius coordination compounds have been obtained and extensively characterized by experimental and computational approaches.
Absolute determination of chemical kinetic rate constants by optical tracking the reaction on the second timescale using cavity-enhanced absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Yi Hongming , Meng Lingshuo , Wu Tao , Lauraguais Amélie , Coeur Cecile , Tomas Alexandre , Fu Hongbo , Gao Xiaoming , Chen Weidong
Published: February 2022

We report a new spectroscopic platform coupled to an atmospheric simulation chamber for the direct determination of chemical rate constants with high accuracy at a second time-scale resolution.
Diastereomeric dinickel(ii) complexes with non-innocent bis(octaazamacrocyclic) ligands: isomerization, spectroelectrochemistry, DFT calculations and use in catalytic oxidation of cyclohexane
Authors: Dobrov Anatolie , Darvasiová Denisa , Zalibera Michal , Bučinský Lukáš , Jelemenská Ingrid , Rapta Peter , Shova Sergiu , Dumitrescu Dan G. , Andrade Marta A. , Martins Luísa M. D. R. S. , Pombeiro Armando J. L. , Arion Vladimir B.
Published: February 2022

Dinickel(ii) complexes with non-innocent bis(octaazamacrocyclic) ligands were isolated as R,S/S,R and R,R/S,S-enantiomers.
Novel cyclen-polyiodide complexes: a reappraisal of I–I covalent and secondary bond limits
Authors: Savastano Matteo , Bazzicalupi Carla , Bianchi Antonio
Published: February 2022

Diprotonated cyclen stabilizes I82− in the solid state showing unique I–I distances. A reappraisal of accepted threshold values for primary and secondary bonding in selected polyiodides is presented, with implications for their current validity.
Synthesis and computational aspects of Al(ii)–Al(ii) and Ga(ii)–Ga(ii) dihalides based on an amidinate scaffold
Authors: Kumar Arun , Banerjee Samya , Sharma Nishant , Nazish Mohd , Graw Nico , Herbst-Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar , Lourderaj Upakarasamy , Roesky Herbert W.
Published: February 2022

Synthesis, crystal structure, and DFT study of amidinate compounds with Al(ii)–Al(ii) and Ga(ii)–Ga(ii) bonds as dihalide dimers.
Iridium supported on porous polypyridine-oxadiazole as high-activity and recyclable catalyst for the borrowing hydrogen reaction
Authors: Li Jiahao , Mao Anruo , Yao Wei , Zhu Haiyan , Wang Dawei
Published: February 2022

Porous polypyridine-oxadiazole supported iridium catalysts (PPO-Ir) revealed high catalytic activity for the reaction of dimethyl-6-aminouracil (including 1,3-dimethylbarbituric acid, 2-aminobenzylamine) with alcohols.