bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of ultra-fast track cardiac anaesthesia in infants and toddlers: a randomised trial
Authors: Feng Jumian , Wang Huaizhen , Peng Liangming , Song Xingrong
Published: September 2021

Background:

The usefulness of ultra-fast track cardiac anaesthesia may give great benefits to patients; however, its usefulness has not been completely evaluated in infants and toddlers, who are generally considered the most difficult group for ultra-fast track cardiac anaesthesia.

Method:

A total of 130 children were allocated randomly into to a ultra-fast track cardiac anaesthesia group (Group D) or a conventional anaesthesia group (Group C) (each n = 65). In Group D, dexmedetomidine was administrated at a dosage of 1 µg/kg/hour after induction. The patient- controlled intravenous analgesia was dexmedetomidine and sufentanil. In Group C, patients were infused with of the same volume of normal saline, and sufentanil alone for patient-controlled intravenous analgesia. The dosages of sufentanil, extubation time, haemodynamic parameters, postoperative hospitalisation conditions, pain and sedation scores, blood gas analysis, and inotropic scores were all recorded.

Results:

The dosage of sufentanil (1.49 ± 0.05 vs. 3.81 ± 0.04 µg, p < 0.001) and extubation time (2.63 ± 0.52 vs. 436.60 ± 22.19 minutes, p < 0.001) in Group D were all significantly lower than those in Group C. Moreover, cardiac intensive care unit stay time, total hospital stay, hospitalisation costs, postoperative lactate levels, and inotropic scores were also significantly lower in Group D.

Conclusions:

Using of ultra-fast track cardiac anaesthesia in infants and toddlers is effective, it not only reduce the perioperative requirement for opioids and shorten the extubation time but also decreases the inotrope requirement and provide a better postoperative condition for young children.
A meta-synthesis of qualitative studies of the link between anxiety, depression and perfectionism: implications for treatment
Authors: Egan Sarah J. , Wade Tracey D. , Fitzallen Grace , O’Brien Amy , Shafran Roz
Published: September 2021

Background:

Meta-analyses show an association between perfectionism and depression and anxiety (negative affect), and that therapy for perfectionism impacts positively on negative affect. No systematic reviews have focused on qualitative studies of perfectionism.

Aims:

Our aim was to perform a systematic, meta-synthesis of qualitative literature to (i) help inform our understanding of how perfectionism is associated with negative affect, so that we can (ii) inform future development of treatment for perfectionism in young people and to make it more effective.

Method:

Included in the meta-synthesis were 37 qualitative studies.

Results:

Six themes related to perfectionism were found: (1) the association with negative affect, (2) self-worth dependent on achievement, (3) cognitive and behavioural maintaining factors, (4) the expectations of others, (5) effective elements of interventions, and (6) barriers to treatment.

Conclusions:

The qualitative literature supports the notion of perfectionism as an important construct to consider in reducing negative affect. While cognitive behavioural therapy for perfectionism holds promise as a treatment to target negative affect, there was a paucity of qualitative research, particularly related to young people. A greater understanding of the views of young people are required to help tailor more effective interventions for perfectionism that can impact negative affect in this group.
Can Deep Learning Predict Complete Ruptures in Numerical Megathrust Faults?
Authors: Blank David , Morgan Julia
Published: September 2021

We propose a binary classification model rooted in state‐of‐the‐art deep learning techniques to predict whether or not complete‐interface rupture is imminent along a numerical megathrust fault. The models are trained on labeled 2D space‐time input features taken from the synthetic fault system. We contrast the performance of two neural networks trained on three types of data, to determine the relative predictive power of each. The neural networks are able to discriminate imminent complete rupture precursors from everything else, thus providing a relative size and time forecast. Vertical displacements along the fault demonstrate relatively good predictive power. The results confirm previous qualitative observations that precursory deformation scales with upcoming event size, consistent with the preslip model for earthquake nucleation. The methods we propose are adaptable and can be modified to use 3D data in the future.
Matrix Diffusion as a Mechanism Contributing to Fractal Stream Chemistry and Long‐Tailed Transit Time Distributions
Authors: Rajaram Harihar
Published: September 2021

Solute transit or travel time distributions (TTDs) in catchments are relevant to both hydrochemical response and inference of hydrologic mechanisms. Long‐tailed TTDs and fractal scaling behavior of stream concentration power spectra (∼1/frequency, or 1/frequency to a power <2) are widely observed in catchment studies. In several catchments, a significant fraction of streamflow is derived from groundwater in shallow fractured bedrock, where matrix diffusion significantly influences solute transport. I present frequency and time domain theoretical analyses of solute transport to quantify the influence of matrix diffusion on fractal scaling and long‐tailed TTDs. The theoretical concentration power spectra exhibit fractal scaling, and the corresponding TTDs resemble a gamma distribution. The tails of the TTDs are influenced by accessible matrix width, exhibiting a sustained power‐law (rather than exponential) decline for large matrix widths. Application to an experimental catchment shows that theoretical spectra match previously reported power spectral estimates derived from concentration measurements.
On Assessing ERA5 and MERRA2 Representations of Cold‐Air Outbreaks Across the Gulf Stream
Authors: Seethala C. , Zuidema Paquita , Edson James , Brunke Michael , Chen Gao , Li Xiang‐Yu , Painemal David , Robinson Claire , Shingler Taylor , Shook Michael , Sorooshian Armin , Thornhill Lee , Tornow Florian , Wang Hailong , Zeng Xubin , Ziemba Luke
Published: September 2021

The warm Gulf Stream sea surface temperatures strongly impact the evolution of winter clouds behind atmospheric cold fronts. Such cloud evolution remains challenging to model. The Gulf Stream is too wide within the ERA5 and MERRA2 reanalyses, affecting the turbulent surface fluxes. Known problems within the ERA5 boundary layer (too‐dry and too‐cool with too strong westerlies), ascertained primarily from ACTIVATE 2020 campaign aircraft dropsondes and secondarily from older buoy measurements, reinforce surface flux biases. In contrast, MERRA2 winter surface winds and air‐sea temperature/humidity differences are slightly too weak, producing surface fluxes that are too low. Reanalyses boundary layer heights in the strongly forced winter cold‐air‐outbreak regime are realistic, whereas late‐summer quiescent stable boundary layers are too shallow. Nevertheless, the reanalysis biases are small, and reanalyses adequately support their use for initializing higher‐resolution cloud process modeling studies of cold‐air outbreaks.
Classifying the Magnetosheath Behind the Quasi‐Parallel and Quasi‐Perpendicular Bow Shock by Local Measurements
Authors: Karlsson T. , Raptis S. , Trollvik H. , Nilsson H.
Published: September 2021

We investigate and evaluate the possibility of using local magnetosheath measurements to classify the plasma according to upstream conditions. In order to do this, we use simultaneous measurements from the Cluster spacecraft from time intervals when one of them is located in the solar wind, and the other in the magnetosheath. In particular, we study the classification of the magnetosheath plasma into the classes quasi‐parallel versus quasi‐perpendicular and foreshock/no foreshock (referring to the geometry of the upstream bow shock). We evaluate this method based on the magnetosheath measurements of the high‐energy ion energy flux, magnetic field standard deviation, and ion temperature anisotropy. We find that the method is promising and useful, in that it eliminates the uncertainties associated with propagating upstream measurements made far from the bow shock. Finally, we discuss some possible extensions of the methodology to be investigated in the future.
TAZ as a novel regulator of oxidative damage in decidualization via Nrf2/ARE/Foxo1 pathway
Authors: Yu Hai-Fan , Zheng Lian-Wen , Yang Zhan-Qing , Wang Yu-Si , Wang Ting-Ting , Yue Zhan-Peng , Guo Bin
Published: September 2021

TAZ, as a crucial effector of Hippo pathway, is required for spermatogenesis and fertilization, but little is known regarding its physiological function in uterine decidualization. In this study, we showed that TAZ was localized in the decidua, where it promoted stromal cell proliferation followed by accelerated G1/S phase transition via Ccnd3 and Cdk4 and induced the expression or activity of stromal differentiation markers Prl8a2, Prl3c1 and ALP, indicating the importance of TAZ in decidualization. Knockdown of TAZ impeded HB-EGF induction of stromal cell proliferation and differentiation. Under oxidative stress, TAZ protected stromal differentiation against oxidative damage by reducing intracellular ROS and enhancing cellular antioxidant capacity dependent on the Nrf2/ARE/Foxo1 pathway. TAZ strengthened the transcriptional activity of Nrf2 which directly bound to the antioxidant response element (ARE) of Foxo1 promoter region. Additionally, silencing TAZ caused accumulation of intracellular ROS through heightening NOX activity whose blockade by APO reversed the disruption in stromal differentiation. Further analysis revealed that TAZ might restore mitochondrial function, as indicated by the increase in ATP level, mtDNA copy number and mitochondrial membrane potential with the reduction in mitochondrial superoxide. Additionally, TAZ modulated the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I and III whose suppression by ROT and AA resulted in the inability of TAZ to defend against oxidative damage to stromal differentiation. Moreover, TAZ prevented stromal cell apoptosis by upregulating Bcl2 expression and inhibiting Casp3 activity and Bax expression. In summary, TAZ might mediate HB-EGF function in uterine decidualization through Ccnd3 and ameliorate oxidative damage to stromal cell differentiation via Nrf2/ARE/Foxo1 pathway.
Deep learning detects acute myeloid leukemia and predicts NPM1 mutation status from bone marrow smears
Authors: Eckardt Jan-Niklas , Middeke Jan Moritz , Riechert Sebastian , Schmittmann Tim , Sulaiman Anas Shekh , Kramer Michael , Sockel Katja , Kroschinsky Frank , Schuler Ulrich , Schetelig Johannes , Röllig Christoph , Thiede Christian , Wendt Karsten , Bornhäuser Martin
Published: September 2021

The evaluation of bone marrow morphology by experienced hematopathologists is essential in the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML); however, it suffers from a lack of standardization and inter-observer variability. Deep learning (DL) can process medical image data and provides data-driven class predictions. Here, we apply a multi-step DL approach to automatically segment cells from bone marrow images, distinguish between AML samples and healthy controls with an area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.9699, and predict the mutation status of Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1)—one of the most common mutations in AML—with an AUROC of 0.92 using only image data from bone marrow smears. Utilizing occlusion sensitivity maps, we observed so far unreported morphologic cell features such as a pattern of condensed chromatin and perinuclear lightening zones in myeloblasts of NPM1-mutated AML and prominent nucleoli in wild-type NPM1 AML enabling the DL model to provide accurate class predictions.
Doxycycline exposure during adolescence and future risk of non-affective psychosis and bipolar disorder: a total population cohort study
Authors: Upmark Fredrik , Sjöqvist Hugo , Hayes Joseph F. , Dalman Christina , Karlsson Håkan
Published: September 2021

Doxycycline has been hypothesized to prevent development of severe mental illness (SMI) through the suppression of microglia, especially if administered during the intense synaptic pruning period of adolescence. However, results from register studies on potential benefits differ considerably. The aim of the present study was to determine whether doxycycline exposure during adolescence is associated with reduced SMI risk, and to investigate if a direct and specific causality is plausible. This is a Swedish national population register-based cohort study of all individuals born from 1993 to 1997, followed from the age of 13 until end of study at the end of 2016. The primary exposure was cumulative doxycycline prescription ≥3000 mg and outcomes were first diagnosis of non-affective psychosis (F20–F29) and first diagnosis of bipolar disorder (F30–F31). Causal effects were explored through Cox regressions with relevant covariates and secondary analyses of multilevel exposure and comparison to other antibiotics. We found no association between doxycycline exposure and risk of subsequent non-affective psychosis (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.15, 95% CI 0.73–1.81, p = 0.541) and an increased risk of subsequent bipolar disorder (adjusted HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.49–2.55, p < 0.001). We do not believe the association between doxycycline and bipolar disorder is causal as similar associations were observed for other common antibiotics.
Characterising the shared genetic determinants of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and risk-taking
Authors: Hindley Guy , Bahrami Shahram , Steen Nils Eiel , O’Connell Kevin S. , Frei Oleksandr , Shadrin Alexey , Bettella Francesco , Rødevand Linn , Fan Chun C. , Dale Anders M. , Djurovic Srdjan , Smeland Olav B. , Andreassen Ole A.
Published: September 2021

Increased risk-taking is a central component of bipolar disorder (BIP) and is implicated in schizophrenia (SCZ). Risky behaviours, including smoking and alcohol use, are overrepresented in both disorders and associated with poor health outcomes. Positive genetic correlations are reported but an improved understanding of the shared genetic architecture between risk phenotypes and psychiatric disorders may provide insights into underlying neurobiological mechanisms. We aimed to characterise the genetic overlap between risk phenotypes and SCZ, and BIP by estimating the total number of shared variants using the bivariate causal mixture model and identifying shared genomic loci using the conjunctional false discovery rate method. Summary statistics from genome wide association studies of SCZ, BIP, risk-taking and risky behaviours were acquired (n = 82,315–466,751). Genomic loci were functionally annotated using FUMA. Of 8.6–8.7 K variants predicted to influence BIP, 6.6 K and 7.4 K were predicted to influence risk-taking and risky behaviours, respectively. Similarly, of 10.2–10.3 K variants influencing SCZ, 9.6 and 8.8 K were predicted to influence risk-taking and risky behaviours, respectively. We identified 192 loci jointly associated with SCZ and risk phenotypes and 206 associated with BIP and risk phenotypes, of which 68 were common to both risk-taking and risky behaviours and 124 were novel to SCZ or BIP. Functional annotation implicated differential expression in multiple cortical and sub-cortical regions. In conclusion, we report extensive polygenic overlap between risk phenotypes and BIP and SCZ, identify specific loci contributing to this shared risk and highlight biologically plausible mechanisms that may underlie risk-taking in severe psychiatric disorders.
LncRNA NEAT1 controls the lineage fates of BMSCs during skeletal aging by impairing mitochondrial function and pluripotency maintenance
Authors: Zhang Hengguo , Xu Rongyao , Li Bang , Xin Zhili , Ling Ziji , Zhu Weiwen , Li Xiang , Zhang Ping , Fu Yu , Chen Jiyu , Liu Laikui , Cheng Jie , Jiang Hongbing
Published: September 2021

Aged bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) exhibit aberrant self-renewal and lineage specification, which contribute to imbalanced bone-fat and progressive bone loss. In addition to known master regulators of lineage commitment, it is crucial to identify pivotal switches governing the specific differentiation fate of aged BMSCs. Here, we profiled differences in epigenetic regulation between adipogenesis and osteogenesis and identified super-enhancer associated lncRNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) as a key bone-fat switch in aged BMSCs. We validated that NEAT1 with high enhancer activity was transcriptionally activated by ATF2 and directed aged BMSCs to a greater propensity to differentiate toward adipocytes than osteoblasts by mediating mitochondrial function. Furthermore, we confirmed NEAT1 as a protein-binding scaffold in which phosphorylation modification of SOX2 Ser249/250 by CDK2 impaired SOX2/OCT4 complex stability and dysregulated downstream transcription networks of pluripotency maintenance. In addition, by sponging miR-27b-3p, NEAT1 upregulated BNIP3L, BMP2K, and PPARG expression to shape mitochondrial function and osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation commitment, respectively. In extracellular communication, NEAT1 promoted CSF1 secretion from aged BMSCs and then strengthened osteoclastic differentiation by extracellular vesicle delivery. Notably, Neat1 small interfering RNA delivery induced increased bone mass in aged mice and decreased fat accumulation in the bone marrow. These findings suggest that NEAT1 regulates the lineage fates of BMSCs by orchestrating mitochondrial function and pluripotency maintenance, and might be a potential therapeutic target for skeletal aging.
METTL3 promotes the initiation and metastasis of ovarian cancer by inhibiting CCNG2 expression via promoting the maturation of pri-microRNA-1246
Authors: Bi Xuehan , Lv Xiao , Liu Dajiang , Guo Hongtao , Yao Guang , Wang Lijuan , Liang Xiaolei , Yang Yongxiu
Published: September 2021

Ovarian cancer is a common gynecological malignant tumor with a high mortality rate and poor prognosis. There is inadequate knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying ovarian cancer. We examined the expression of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) in tumor specimens using RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot analysis, and tested the methylation of METTL3 by MSP. Levels of METTL3, miR-1246, pri-miR-1246 and CCNG2 were then analyzed and their effects on cell biological processes were also investigated, using in vivo assay to validate the in vitro findings. METTL3 showed hypomethylation and high expression in ovarian cancer tissues and cells. Hypomethylation of METTL3 was pronounced in ovarian cancer samples, which was negatively associated with patient survival. Decreased METTL3 inhibited the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells and promoted apoptosis, while METTL3 overexpression exerted opposite effects. Mechanistically, METTL3 aggravated ovarian cancer by targeting miR-1246, while miR-1246 targeted and inhibited CCNG2 expression. High expression of METTL3 downregulated CCNG2, promoted the metabolism and growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice, and inhibited apoptosis. The current study highlights the promoting role of METTL3 in the development of ovarian cancer, and presents new targets for its treatment.
A Continuum Deformation Approach for Growth Analysis of COVID-19 in the United States
Authors: Hemmati Sadra , Rastgoftar Hossein
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 global pandemic has significantly impacted every aspect of life all over the world. The United States is reported to have suffered more than 20% of the global casualties from this pandemic. It is imperative to investigate the growth dynamics of the disease in the US based on varying geographical and governmental factors that best manifest itself in each State of the Country. This paper utilizes a hybrid machine learning and continuum deformation-based approach for analyzing the stability and growth rate of the pandemic. To this end, principal stress values of the pandemic continuum body are obtained using Mohr’s Circle method and overlapping, moving windows of data are analysed successively. This helps in finding the correlations between the growth rate and Governments’ action/Public’s reaction. Government actions include “state of emergency”, “shelter at place”, and “phase declarations”. We also consider the vaccination rate milestones, which shows us the coordinated Governments’ action/Public’s reaction. Finally, a number of recommendations are made to the Governments and people for better management of future pandemics.
Pituitary hormones are specifically expressed in trigeminal sensory neurons and contribute to pain responses in the trigeminal system
Authors: Hovhannisyan Anahit H. , Son Hyeonwi , Mecklenburg Jennifer , Barba-Escobedo Priscilla Ann , Tram Meilinn , Gomez Ruben , Shannonhouse John , Zou Yi , Weldon Korri , Ruparel Shivani , Lai Zhao , Tumanov Alexei V. , Kim Yu Shin , Akopian Armen N.
Published: September 2021

Trigeminal (TG), dorsal root (DRG), and nodose/jugular (NG/JG) ganglia each possess specialized and distinct functions. We used RNA sequencing of two-cycle sorted Pirt-positive neurons to identify genes exclusively expressing in L3–L5 DRG, T10-L1 DRG, NG/JG, and TG mouse ganglion neurons. Transcription factor Phox2b and Efcab6 are specifically expressed in NG/JG while Hoxa7 is exclusively present in both T10-L1 and L3–L5 DRG neurons. Cyp2f2, Krt18, and Ptgds, along with pituitary hormone prolactin (Prl), growth hormone (Gh), and proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) encoding genes are almost exclusively in TG neurons. Immunohistochemistry confirmed selective expression of these hormones in TG neurons and dural nerves; and showed GH expression in subsets of TRPV1+ and CGRP+ TG neurons. We next examined GH roles in hypersensitivity in the spinal versus trigeminal systems. Exogenous GH produced mechanical hypersensitivity when injected intrathecally, but not intraplantarly. GH-induced thermal hypersensitivity was not detected in the spinal system. GH dose-dependently generated orofacial and headache-like periorbital mechanical hypersensitivity after administration into masseter muscle and dura, respectively. Periorbital mechanical hypersensitivity was reversed by a GH receptor antagonist, pegvisomant. Overall, pituitary hormone genes are selective for TG versus other ganglia somatotypes; and GH has distinctive functional significance in the trigeminal versus spinal systems.
Evidence of weak Anderson localization revealed by the resistivity, transverse magnetoresistance and Hall effect measured on thin Cu films deposited on mica
Authors: Díaz Eva , Herrera Guillermo , Oyarzún Simón , Munoz Raul C.
Published: September 2021

We report the resistivity of 5 Cu films approximately 65 nm thick, measured between 5 and 290 K, and the transverse magnetoresistance and Hall effect measured at temperatures 5 K < T < 50 K. The mean grain diameters are D = (8.9, 9.8, 20.2, 31.5, 34.7) nm, respectively. The magnetoresistance signal is positive in samples where D > L/2 (where L = 39 nm is the electron mean free path in the bulk at room temperature), and negative in samples where D < L/2. The sample where D = 20.2 nm exhibits a negative magnetoresistance at B < 2 Tesla and a positive magnetoresistance at B > 3 Tesla. A negative magnetoresistance in Cu films has been considered evidence of charge transport involving weak Anderson localization. These experiments reveal that electron scattering by disordered grain boundaries found along L leads to weak Anderson localization, confirming the localization phenomenon predicted by the quantum theory of resistivity of nanometric metallic connectors. Anderson localization becomes a severe obstacle for the successful development of the circuit miniaturization effort pursued by the electronic industry, for it leads to a steep rise in the resistivity of nanometric metallic connectors with decreasing wire dimensions (D < L/2) employed in the design of Integrated Circuits.
Autofluorescence-spectral imaging as an innovative method for rapid, non-destructive and reliable assessing of soybean seed quality
Authors: Barboza da Silva Clíssia , Oliveira Nielsen Moreira , de Carvalho Marcia Eugenia Amaral , de Medeiros André Dantas , de Lima Nogueira Marina , dos Reis André Rodrigues
Published: September 2021

In the agricultural industry, advances in optical imaging technologies based on rapid and non-destructive approaches have contributed to increase food production for the growing population. The present study employed autofluorescence-spectral imaging and machine learning algorithms to develop distinct models for classification of soybean seeds differing in physiological quality after artificial aging. Autofluorescence signals from the 365/400 nm excitation-emission combination (that exhibited a perfect correlation with the total phenols in the embryo) were efficiently able to segregate treatments. Furthermore, it was also possible to demonstrate a strong correlation between autofluorescence-spectral data and several quality indicators, such as early germination and seed tolerance to stressful conditions. The machine learning models developed based on artificial neural network, support vector machine or linear discriminant analysis showed high performance (0.99 accuracy) for classifying seeds with different quality levels. Taken together, our study shows that the physiological potential of soybean seeds is reduced accompanied by changes in the concentration and, probably in the structure of autofluorescent compounds. In addition, altering the autofluorescent properties in seeds impact the photosynthesis apparatus in seedlings. From the practical point of view, autofluorescence-based imaging can be used to check modifications in the optical properties of soybean seed tissues and to consistently discriminate high-and low-vigor seeds.
Strain and sex dependent effects of isolation housing relative to environmental enrichment on operant sensation seeking in mice
Authors: Dickson Price E. , Mittleman Guy
Published: September 2021

Sensation seeking is a multidimensional phenotype that predicts the development of drug addiction in humans and addiction-like drug seeking in rodents. Several lines of evidence suggest that chronic stress increases sensation seeking and addiction-like drug seeking through common genetic mechanisms. Discovery and characterization of these mechanisms would reveal how chronic stress interacts with the genome to influence sensation seeking and how drugs of abuse hijack these fundamental reward mechanisms to drive addiction. To this end, we tested the hypothesis that chronic isolation housing stress (relative to environmental enrichment) influences operant sensation seeking as a function of strain, sex, or their interaction. To determine if the BXD recombinant inbred panel could be used to identify genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying any identified gene-by-environment interactions, we used mice from the two BXD founder strains. Following 10 weeks of differential housing, we assessed operant sensation seeking using several reinforcement schedules. The primary finding from this study was that DBA/2J but not C57BL/6J mice were significantly vulnerable to an isolation-induced increase (relative to environmental enrichment) in sensation seeking during extinction when the sensory reward was no longer available; this effect was significantly more robust in females. These data reveal a previously unknown isolation-induced effect on extinction of operant sensation seeking that is sex-dependent, addiction-relevant, and that can be dissected using the BXD recombinant inbred panel.
Individual alpha peak frequency is slower in schizophrenia and related to deficits in visual perception and cognition
Authors: Ramsay Ian S. , Lynn Peter A. , Schermitzler Brandon , Sponheim Scott R.
Published: September 2021

The brain at rest generates cycles of electrical activity that have been shown to be abnormal in people with schizophrenia. The alpha rhythm (~ 10 Hz) is the dominant resting state electrical cycle and each person has a propensity toward a particular frequency of oscillation for this rhythm. This individual alpha peak frequency (IAPF) is hypothesized to be central to visual perceptual processes and may have downstream influences on cognitive functions such as attention, working memory, or problem solving. In the current study we sought to determine whether IAPF was slower in schizophrenia, and whether lower IAPF predicted deficits in visual perception and cognition that are often observed in schizophrenia. Eyes-closed resting state EEG activity, visual attention, and global cognitive functioning were assessed in individuals with schizophrenia (N = 104) and a group of healthy controls (N = 101). Compared to controls, the schizophrenia group showed slower IAPF and was associated with poorer discrimination of visual targets and nontargets on a computerized attention task, as well as impaired global cognition measured using neuropsychological tests across groups. Notably, disruptions in visual attention fully mediated the relationship between IAPF and global cognition across groups. The current findings demonstrate that slower alpha oscillatory cycling accounts for global cognitive deficits in schizophrenia by way of impairments in perceptual discrimination measured during a visual attention task.
Clinical features and prognosis of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy with different morphologies of branching vascular network on optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Ma Shang-Te , Huang Chu-Hsuan , Chang Yun-Chia , Lai Tso-Ting , Hsieh Yi-Ting , Ho Tzyy-Chang , Yang Chung-May , Cheng Cheng-Guo , Yang Chang-Hao
Published: September 2021

This study highlights the clinical features and treatment response of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) among three different branching vascular network (BVN) morphologies in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and further correlates the BVN features with those under fluorescent angiography (FA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). In total, we reviewed 70 eyes with PCV followed up for > 12 months. OCTA, ICGA and FA images were obtained at baseline and post-treatments. BVN was assessed using OCTA and divided into three types by a previously described BVN classification: type 1 (trunk), type 2 (glomeruli), and type 3 (stick). At baseline, type 1 BVN had the poorest vision and thinnest subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), whereas type 3 had the best vision and thickest SFCT. The aforementioned trend sustained after treatments. Each BVN morphology in OCTA showed typical features in FA + ICGA and encompassed significant correlation (p = 0.004). In conclusion, OCTA is an innovative imaging tool for the detection and classification of BVN in PCV. Furthermore, OCTA has advantages of being noninvasive and free of systemic toxicities. The BVN can be divided into three types based on morphological characteristics in OCTA, which play crucial roles in clinical presentations and treatment outcomes.
Toll-like receptor 1 as a possible target in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Baumann Anja , Nier Anika , Hernández-Arriaga Angélica , Brandt Annette , Lorenzo Pisarello Maria J. , Jin Cheng J. , Pilar Esther , Camarinha-Silva Amélia , Schattenberg Jörn M. , Bergheim Ina
Published: September 2021

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the liver compartment have repeatedly been attributed to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Knowledge on TLR expression in blood cells and their relation to intestinal microbiota and NAFLD development is limited. Here, we determined TLR expression patterns in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of NAFLD patients and controls, their relation to intestinal microbiota and the impact of TLRs found altered in NAFLD development. Markers of intestinal permeability in blood andTLRmRNA expression in PBMCs were determined in 37 NAFLD patients and 15 age-matched healthy controls. Fecal microbiota composition was evaluated in 21 NAFLD patients and 9 controls using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Furthermore,TLR1−/−and C57BL/6 mice (n = 5–6/group) were pair-fed a liquid control or a fat-, fructose- and cholesterol-rich diet. Intestinal microbiota composition and markers of intestinal permeability like zonulin and bacterial endotoxin differed significantly between groups with the latter markers being significantly higher in NAFLD patients. Expression ofTLR1-8and10mRNA was detectable in PBMCs; however, onlyTLR1expression, being higher in NAFLD patients, were significantly positively correlated with the prevalence ofHoldemanellagenus while negative correlations were found withGemmigerandRuminococcusgenera.TLR1−/−mice were significantly protected from the development of diet-induced NAFLD when compared to wild-type mice. While intestinal microbiota composition and permeability differed significantly between NAFLD patients and healthy subjects, in PBMCs, onlyTLR1expression differed between groups. Still, targeting these alterations might be a beneficial approach in the treatment of NAFLD in some patients.
The meso-fracturing mechanism of marble under unloading confining pressure paths and constant axial stress
Authors: Sun Linna , Zhang Liming , Cong Yu , Song Yaduo , He Keqiang
Published: September 2021

Failure tests on marble during unloading confining-pressure under constant axial stress and simulations with the particle flow code were performed. The influence mechanism of the unloading rate of the confining pressure, initial unloading stress, and confining pressure on the failure characteristics of, and crack propagation in, marble was studied. By using the trial-and-error method, the conversion relationship between the unloading rates of confining pressures in laboratory tests and numerical simulations was ascertained. Micro-cracks formed in the unloading process of confining pressure are dominated by tension cracks, accompanied by shear cracks. The propagation of shear cracks lags that of tension cracks. As the confining pressure is increased, more cracks occur upon failure of the samples. The proportion of shear cracks increases while that of tension cracks decreases. The failure mode of samples undergoes a transition from shear-dominated failure to conjugated shear failure.
The mitochondrial calcium uniporter promotes arrhythmias caused by high-fat diet
Authors: Joseph Leroy C. , Reyes Michael V. , Homan Edwin A. , Gowen Blake , Avula Uma Mahesh R. , Goulbourne Chris N. , Wan Elaine Y. , Elrod John W. , Morrow John P.
Published: September 2021

Obesity and diabetes increase the risk of arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. However, the molecular mechanisms of arrhythmia caused by metabolic abnormalities are not well understood. We hypothesized that mitochondrial dysfunction caused by high fat diet (HFD) promotes ventricular arrhythmia. Based on our previous work showing that saturated fat causes calcium handling abnormalities in cardiomyocytes, we hypothesized that mitochondrial calcium uptake contributes to HFD-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and arrhythmic events. For experiments, we used mice with conditional cardiac-specific deletion of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (Mcu), which is required for mitochondrial calcium uptake, and littermate controls. Mice were used for in vivo heart rhythm monitoring, perfused heart experiments, and isolated cardiomyocyte experiments. MCU KO mice are protected from HFD-induced long QT, inducible ventricular tachycardia, and abnormal ventricular repolarization. Abnormal repolarization may be due, at least in part, to a reduction in protein levels of voltage gated potassium channels. Furthermore, isolated cardiomyocytes from MCU KO mice exposed to saturated fat are protected from increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and abnormal calcium handling. Activation of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII) corresponds with the increase in arrhythmias in vivo. Additional experiments showed that CaMKII inhibition protects cardiomyocytes from the mitochondrial dysfunction caused by saturated fat. Hearts from transgenic CaMKII inhibitor mice were protected from inducible ventricular tachycardia after HFD. These studies identify mitochondrial dysfunction caused by calcium overload as a key mechanism of arrhythmia during HFD. This work indicates that MCU and CaMKII could be therapeutic targets for arrhythmia caused by metabolic abnormalities.
Incidence, characteristics and risk factors of thromboembolic events in East Asian patients with BCR-ABL1 negative myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Kim Jinyong , Byun Ja Min , Hong Junshik , Koh Youngil , Shin Dong-Yeop , Kim Inho , Yoon Sung-Soo , Park Hyunkyung , Bang Soo-Mee
Published: September 2021

The vascular complications have been a major cause of morbidity and mortality among all subtypes of BCR-ABL1 negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), but the ethnicity-specific data was limited. We therefore conducted a multi-center retrospective, longitudinal cohort study to evaluate the incidence, characteristics and risk factors of thromboembolic events of MPN patients. Of 256 patients, 27.3% experienced thromboembolic events, majority of which occurred before or within 12 months of MPN diagnosis. The multivariable Cox proportional analyses identified leukocytosis (HR 2.67, 95% CI 1.36–5.24, q = 0.004) and history of thrombosis (HR 9.68, 95% CI 2.00–46.88, q = 0.005) as the risk factors for thromboembolism. In subgroup analysis of polycythemia vera and hemoglobin concentration (HR 1.97, 95% CI 1.28–3.04, q = 0.002) appeared to be a significant risk factor of thrombosis, along with age and thrombosis history. In essential thrombocythemia, severity of the established IPSET score was closely correlated with the frequency of thromboembolic events. In primary myelofibrosis, history of thrombosis was associated with thrombosis events (HR 13.85, 95% CI 1.2–159.5, q = 0.035). Overall survival was worse in patients who experienced thromboembolic events. Our study highlighted the importance of recognizing high risk patients and implementing personalized intervention.
Publisher Correction: Interrelationship between daily COVID-19 cases and average temperature as well as relative humidity in Germany
Authors: Ganegoda Naleen Chaminda , Wijaya Karunia Putra , Amadi Miracle , Erandi K. K. W. Hasitha , Aldila Dipo
Published: September 2021

The original PDF version of this Article contained a repeated error where the Blackboard Bold 1 symbol was incorrect in Equations 1 and 2.
Microsphere mediated exosome isolation and ultra-sensitive detection on a dielectrophoresis integrated microfluidic device
Authors: Zhao Wenjie , Zhang Lingqian , Ye Yifei , Li Yuang , Luan Xiaofeng , Liu Jinlong , Cheng Jie , Zhao Yang , Li Mingxiao , Huang Chengjun
Published: September 2021

A microsphere mediated exosome isolation and ultra-sensitive detection ExoDEP-chip was developed. A detection limit of 193 exosomes per mL was obtained by dispersing PS microspheres into microwells to reduce the fluorescence interference.
Detection of the effect of polydopamine (PDA)-coated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates on the release of H2O2 from a single HeLa cell
Authors: Xiao Jingyu , Tian Meng , Su Lei , Bao Yu , Niu Li , Zhang Xueji
Published: September 2021

Endogenous H2O2 generated by a single HeLa cell that was adhered on the PDA-coated PDMS substrates under 25 mM glucose culture conditions was detected using a home-built photoelectric dual detection platform.
Development and validation of a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the quantification of voriconazole in human cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Dong Liuhan , Bai Nan , Wang Tianlin , Cai Yun
Published: September 2021

A simple and accurate method for the determination of voriconazole concentrations in human CSF was developed and validated, which can be used for drug monitoring in the treatment of central nervous system infections.
Redox chemistry of discrete low-valent titanium complexes and low-valent titanium synthons
Authors: Fortier Skye , Gomez-Torres Alejandra
Published: September 2021

The redox chemistry of well-defined low-valent titanium complexes and low-valent titanium synthons is reviewed in this feature article.
Iminyl-radicals by electrochemical decarboxylation of α-imino-oxy acids: construction of indole-fused polycyclics
Authors: Wan Jin-Lin , Cui Jian-Feng , Zhong Wei-Qiang , Huang Jing-Mei
Published: September 2021

An electrochemical decarboxylation/N–O bond cleavage of α-imino-oxy acids was achieved to build up N-heterocycles via iminyl radicals.
Introduction of a (Ph3P)2Pt group into the rim of an open-cage fullerene by breaking a carbon–carbon bond
Authors: Gralinski Steven R. , Roy Mrittika , Baldauf Lilia M. , Olmstead Marilyn M. , Balch Alan L.
Published: September 2021

A remarkable open-cage fullerene with a four coordinate platinum atom incorporated into its rim has been prepared by cleavage of just one of the many carbon–carbon bonds of the fullerene.
Tris-NHC-propagated self-supported polymer-based Pd catalysts for heterogeneous C–H functionalization
Authors: Mandal Tanmoy , Dutta Tapas Kumar , Mohanty Sunit , Choudhury Joyanta
Published: September 2021

Three-dimensionally propagated imidazolium-containing mesoporous coordination polymer and organic polymer platforms were assembled to develop the demanding single-site heterogeneous ‘Pd(ii)–NHC’-based oxidative C–H functionalization catalysts.
Self-assembly of artificial sweetener aspartame adversely affects phospholipid membranes: plausible reason for its deleterious effects
Authors: Nandi Sourav , Layek Souvik , Nandi Pratyush Kiran , Bera Nanigopal , Hazra Ritwik , Sarkar Nilmoni
Published: September 2021

Cytotoxic fibrillar aggregates of the artificial sweetener aspartame (ASP) disorganize a DMPC lipid membrane and reduce the membrane's intrinsic rigidity.
Synthesis, crystal structures, dielectric and magnetic properties of manganese sulfonyldibenzoates
Authors: Balendra  , Singh Bharti , Banday Azeem , Tewari Shailabh , Kumar Vineet , Murugavel Sevi , Joy P. A. , Ramanan Arunachalam
Published: September 2021

Six coordination polymers based on Mn(ii) and V-shaped ligand were successfully isolated and their dielectric as well as magnetic behaviours were investigated. The paper also discusses the growth of solids in terms of supramolecular aggregation.
Halogen bonds as a tool in the design of high energetic materials: evidence from crystal structures and quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Đunović Aleksandra B. , Veljković Dušan Ž.
Published: September 2021

Combined crystallographic and quantum chemical study was performed to reveal the influence of halogen bonding on the sensitivity towards detonation of high-energy molecules.
Tunnel barrier engineering of spin-polarized mild band gap vertical ternary heterostructures
Authors: Melchakova Iu. , Avramov P.
Published: September 2021

Novel CrI3/g-C3N4 spin-polarized heterostructures with flat conduction and valence bands are designed for advanced spin-polarized photovoltaic applications.
2D auxetic material with intrinsic ferromagnetism: a copper halide (CuCl2) monolayer
Authors: Qin Haifei , Chen Jiao , Sun Bai , Tang Yongliang , Ni Yuxiang , Chen Zhongfang , Wang Hongyan , Chen Yuanzheng
Published: September 2021

A novel CuCl2 monolayer exhibits not only intrinsic ferromagnetism but also auxetic mechanical properties.
Solution-processed two-dimensional materials for next-generation photovoltaics
Authors: Bellani Sebastiano , Bartolotta Antonino , Agresti Antonio , Calogero Giuseppe , Grancini Giulia , Di Carlo Aldo , Kymakis Emmanuel , Bonaccorso Francesco
Published: September 2021

Solution-processed graphene and related two-dimensional materials enable the next-generation photovoltaics.
Correction: Novel cationic 1,2,4-selenadiazoles: synthesis via addition of 2-pyridylselenyl halides to unactivated nitriles, structures and four-center Se⋯N contacts
Authors: Khrustalev Victor N. , Grishina Maria M. , Matsulevich Zhanna V. , Lukiyanova Julia M. , Borisova Galina N. , Osmanov Vladimir K. , Novikov Alexander S. , Kirichuk Anatoly A. , Borisov Alexander V. , Solari Euro , Tskhovrebov Alexander G.
Published: September 2021

Correction for ‘Novel cationic 1,2,4-selenadiazoles: synthesis via addition of 2-pyridylselenyl halides to unactivated nitriles, structures and four-center Se⋯N contacts’ by Victor N. Khrustalev et al., Dalton Trans., 2021, 50, 10689–10691, DOI: 10.1039/D1DT01322J.
A facile method for the fast and accurate selection of a UF membrane for membrane bioreactors
Authors: Li Zhengtao , Tio Wee , Sun Darren D.
Published: September 2021

A facile method for the fast and accurate selection of a UF membrane for MBR wastewater reclamation.
What is the best green propylene production pathway?: technical, economic, and environmental assessment
Authors: Kim Heehyang , Lee Boreum , Lim Dongjun , Choe Changgwon , Lim Hankwon
Published: September 2021

The best alternative for green propylene production was determined via an analytic hierarchy process considering technical, economic, and environmental aspects simultaneously with different weighted values of each criterion under uncertainty.
Dual -functional carbon-based solid acid-induced hydrothermal conversion of biomass saccharides: catalyst rational design and kinetic analysis
Authors: Xiong Shanshan , Luo Chao , Yu Zhihao , Ji Na , Zhu Lingjun , Wang Shurong
Published: September 2021

The isomerization–dehydration cascade conversion of saccharides to platforms is a highly technical challenge, while the synergetic effect of active components on catalysts make it more efficient than traditional catalysts with single function.
Phthalide synthesis through dehydrogenated lactonization of the C(sp3)–H bond by photoredox catalysis
Authors: Liu Hui , Liu Chao , Chen Shanyi , Lai Qihong , Lin Yulin , Cai Zhixiong , Huang Mingqiang , Cai Shunyou
Published: September 2021

An efficient method for the direct oxidative lactonization of the C(sp3)–H bonds of benzyl via visible-light-induced photoredox catalysis. The metal-free protocol delivers diverse phthalides using O2 as the sole terminal oxidant at room temperature.
Organocatalytic cascade aldimine condensation/[1,6]-hydride transfer/Mannich-type cyclization: sustainable access to indole-2,3-fused diazocanes
Authors: Wang Lin-Xuan , Qiu Bin , An Xiao-De , Dong Pei-Zhen , Liu Rui-Bin , Xiao Jian
Published: September 2021

An unprecedented organocatalytic cascade aldimine condensation/[1,6]-hydride transfer/Mannich-type cyclization of indole-2-carbaldehydes with o-aminoanilines was developed to assemble indole-2,3-fused diazocanes in one step.
Bonding, structure, and mechanical stability of 2D materials: the predictive power of the periodic table
Authors: Hess Peter
Published: September 2021

Inverse dependence of 2D covalent bonding on bond length of elemental and isoelectronic binary monolayers of the main group elements II–VI. This behavior is also observed for the Young's modulus and ultimate strength.
Enhanced one-pot selective conversion of cellulose to ethylene glycol over NaZSM-5 supported metal catalysts
Authors: Sreekantan Sreejith , Arunima Kirali Arun , Marimuthu Banu
Published: September 2021

The mesopores/micropores NaZSM-5 was synthesised by sol–gel method. The 5%Al–8%Ni–25%W/NaZSM-5 catalyst exhibited the highest cellulose conversion of 100% with EG yield as high as 89% (C mol%) at moderate reaction conditions which is highly applicable in polymer Industry.
Calix[4]arenes bearing triazolyl anthracenes: Hg2+-selective receptors exhibiting fluorescence or dual optical responses
Authors: Kim Seung Hyeon , Kim Jaehyeon , Kim Sung Kuk
Published: September 2021

An azo-coupled calix[4]arene with triazolyl anthracenes detects Hg2+ with high selectivity via dual optical responses.
Large exchange bias in Cr substituted Fe3O4 nanoparticles with FeO subdomains
Authors: Bulbucan Claudiu , Preger Calle , Kostanyan Aram , Jensen Kirsten M. Ø. , Kokkonen Esko , Piamonteze Cinthia , Messing Maria E. , Westerström Rasmus
Published: September 2021

Here we present a structural and magnetic characterization of a novel bimagnetic nanoparticle composed of a 40 nm Cr-substituted magnetite phase with 4 nm FeO subdomains exhibiting large exchange bias.