bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
U.S. Extreme Precipitation Weather Types Increased in Frequency During the 20th Century
Authors: Prein Andreas F. , Mearns Linda O.
Published: March 2021

Extreme precipitation has increased in frequency and intensity across the Conterminous U.S. (CONUS). This trend is expected to continue under future climate change. The cause is a combination of thermodynamic (i.e., warmer temperatures increase the atmospheric moisture content) and dynamic changes (e.g., shifts in cyclone frequency and tracks). It is well‐established that thermodynamic changes will intensify extreme precipitation events, but the impacts of dynamic changes are more uncertain. Extreme events are, per definition, rare and occur in unusual weather situations that are distinctly different from regular day‐to‐day weather. We take advantage of this and identify extreme precipitation‐producing weather patterns (XWTs) for all major watersheds across the CONUS by using a novel algorithm. We show that a set of one to four XWTs per watershed are causing extreme precipitation accumulations. These XWTs can be detected based on their synoptic‐scale fingerprint and are associated with West Coast atmospheric rivers, troughing in the desert Southwest, cutoff lows and troughs in the central and northwestern plains, and tropical cyclones along the Gulf and Atlantic coast. The algorithm is flexible enough to provide reliable results for city to major watershed‐scales and can detect extremes that are unprecedented in the training record. Importantly, this approach allows us to assess long‐term trends in extreme precipitation dynamics and reveal that XWT frequencies increased significantly in most U.S. watersheds during the 20th century indicating that changes in the atmospheric dynamics played an important role in historic extreme precipitation increases.
Sedimentary Ancient DNA From the Subarctic North Pacific: How Sea Ice, Salinity, and Insolation Dynamics Have Shaped Diatom Composition and Richness Over the Past 20,000 Years
Authors: Zimmermann H. H. , Stoof‐Leichsenring K. R. , Kruse S. , Nürnberg D. , Tiedemann R. , Herzschuh U.
Published: March 2021

We traced diatom composition and diversity through time using diatom‐derived sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) from eastern continental slope sediments off Kamchatka (North Pacific) by applying a short, diatom‐specific marker on 63 samples in a DNA metabarcoding approach. The sequences were assigned to diatoms that are common in the area and characteristic of cold water. SedaDNA allowed us to observe shifts of potential lineages from species of the genus Chaetoceros that can be related to different climatic phases, suggesting that pre‐adapted ecotypes might have played a role in the long‐term success of species in areas of changing environmental conditions. These sedaDNA results complement our understanding of the long‐term history of diatom assemblages and their general relationship to environmental conditions of the past. Sea‐ice diatoms (Pauliella taeniata [Grunow] Round & Basson, Attheya septentrionalis [Østrup] R. M. Crawford and Nitzschia frigida [Grunow]) detected during the late glacial and Younger Dryas are in agreement with previous sea‐ice reconstructions. A positive correlation between pennate diatom richness and the sea‐ice proxy IP25 suggests that sea ice fosters pennate diatom richness, whereas a negative correlation with June insolation and temperature points to unfavorable conditions during the Holocene. A sharp increase in proportions of freshwater diatoms at ∼11.1 cal kyr BP implies the influence of terrestrial runoff and coincides with the loss of 42% of diatom sequence variants. We assume that reduced salinity at this time stabilized vertical stratification which limited the replenishment of nutrients in the euphotic zone.
A Dip in Atmospheric Carbon May Have Facilitated Dinosaur Dispersal
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: March 2021

Herbivorous dinosaurs migrated north across Pangea beginning about 214 million years ago, coincident with a downturn in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
The DJ1-Nrf2-STING axis mediates the neuroprotective effects of Withaferin A in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Zhao Miao , Wang Bingwei , Zhang Chenyu , Su Zhijie , Guo Bingbing , Zhao Yun , Zheng Ruimao
Published: March 2021

The pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains unclear, and there is no disease-modifying agent for PD. Withaferin A (WA), a naturally occurring compound, has emerged as a neuroprotective agent. However, the mechanisms by which WA is neuroprotective in PD are unknown. Here we show that WA protected against loss of dopaminergic neurons, neuroinflammation, and motor deficits in MPTP-induced PD mouse models. Whole-genome deep sequencing analysis combined with Meta-analysis of human PD studies reveal that DJ1, Nrf2, and STING in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) are linked to anti-PD effect of WA. We found that WA activated DJ1 and Nrf2, and suppressed STING within SNc; and overexpression of STING in SNc dampened the effect of WA. Using genetically modified mice (DJ1-KO, Nrf2-KO, STINGgt/gt and STING-KO) and immunolabeling technique, we identified that WA targeted DJ1-Nrf2-STING pathway in dopaminergic neurons; and we demonstrate that STING might be an important factor in PD pathogenesis. In addition, WA alleviated accumulation of phosphorylated α-synuclein (p-α-syn) and insoluble α-syn within SNc in adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated human α-syn overexpression PD model. Our comparative analysis on whole-genome transcriptome profiles suggests that STING might be a key target of WA and amantadine in PD treatment. This study highlights a multifaceted role for WA in neuroprotection, and suggests that WA can be a potential candidate for treatment of PD.
Non-contrast dual-energy CT virtual ischemia maps accurately estimate ischemic core size in large-vessel occlusive stroke
Authors: Wolman Dylan N. , van Ommen Fasco , Tong Elizabeth , Kauw Frans , Dankbaar Jan Willem , Bennink Edwin , de Jong Hugo W. A. M. , Molvin Lior , Wintermark Max , Heit Jeremy J.
Published: March 2021

Dual-energy CT (DECT) material decomposition techniques may better detect edema within cerebral infarcts than conventional non-contrast CT (NCCT). This study compared if Virtual Ischemia Maps (VIM) derived from non-contrast DECT of patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large-vessel occlusion (AIS-LVO) are superior to NCCT for ischemic core estimation, compared against reference-standard DWI-MRI. Only patients whose baseline ischemic core was most likely to remain stable on follow-up MRI were included, defined as those with excellent post-thrombectomy revascularization or no perfusion mismatch. Twenty-four consecutive AIS-LVO patients with baseline non-contrast DECT, CT perfusion (CTP), and DWI-MRI were analyzed. The primary outcome measure was agreement between volumetric manually segmented VIM, NCCT, and automatically segmented CTP estimates of the ischemic core relative to manually segmented DWI volumes. Volume agreement was assessed using Bland–Altman plots and comparison of CT to DWI volume ratios. DWI volumes were better approximated by VIM than NCCT (VIM/DWI ratio 0.68 ± 0.35 vs. NCCT/DWI ratio 0.34 ± 0.35; P < 0.001) or CTP (CTP/DWI ratio 0.45 ± 0.67; P < 0.001), and VIM best correlated with DWI (rVIM = 0.90; rNCCT = 0.75; rCTP = 0.77; P < 0.001). Bland–Altman analyses indicated significantly greater agreement between DWI and VIM than NCCT core volumes (mean bias 0.60 [95%AI 0.39–0.82] vs. 0.20 [95%AI 0.11–0.30]). We conclude that DECT VIM estimates the ischemic core in AIS-LVO patients more accurately than NCCT.
RNA silencing suppressor-influenced performance of a virus vector delivering both guide RNA and Cas9 for CRISPR gene editing
Authors: Chiong Kelvin T. , Cody Will B. , Scholthof Herman B.
Published: March 2021

We report on further development of the agroinfiltratable Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV)-based overexpression (TRBO) vector to deliver CRISPR/Cas9 components into plants. First, production of a Cas9 (HcoCas9) protein from a binary plasmid increased when co-expressed in presence of suppressors of gene silencing, such as the TMV 126-kDa replicase or the Tomato bushy stunt virus P19 protein. Such suppressor-generated elevated levels of Cas9 expression translated to efficient gene editing mediated by TRBO-G-3′gGFP expressing GFP and also a single guide RNA targeting the mgfp5 gene in the Nicotiana benthamiana GFP-expressing line 16c. Furthermore, HcoCas9 encoding RNA, a large cargo insert of 4.2 kb, was expressed from TRBO-HcoCas9 to yield Cas9 protein again at higher levels upon co-expression with P19. Likewise, co-delivery of TRBO-HcoCas9 and TRBO-G-3′gGFP in the presence of P19 also resulted in elevated levels percentages of indels (insertions and deletions). These data also revealed an age-related phenomenon in plants whereby the RNA suppressor P19 had more of an effect in older plants. Lastly, we used a single TRBO vector to express both Cas9 and a sgRNA. Taken together, we suggest that viral RNA suppressors could be used for further optimization of single viral vector delivery of CRISPR gene editing parts.
Nonlocal single particle steering generated through single particle entanglement
Authors: Arévalo Aguilar L. M.
Published: March 2021

In 1927, at the Solvay conference, Einstein posed a thought experiment with the primary intention of showing the incompleteness of quantum mechanics; to prove it, he employed the instantaneous nonlocal effects caused by the collapse of the wavefunction of a single particle—the spooky action at a distance–, when a measurement is done. This historical event preceded the well-know Einstein–Podolsk–Rosen criticism over the incompleteness of quantum mechanics. Here, by using the Stern–Gerlach experiment, we demonstrate how the instantaneous nonlocal feature of the collapse of the wavefunction together with the single-particle entanglement can be used to produce the nonlocal effect of steering, i.e. the single-particle steering. In the steering process Bob gets a quantum state depending on which observable Alice decides to measure. To accomplish this, we fully exploit the spreading (over large distances) of the entangled wavefunction of the single-particle. In particular, we demonstrate that the nonlocality of the single-particle entangled state allows the particle to “know” about the kind of detector Alice is using to steer Bob’s state. Therefore, notwithstanding strong counterarguments, we prove that the single-particle entanglement gives rise to truly nonlocal effects at two faraway places. This opens the possibility of using the single-particle entanglement for implementing truly nonlocal task.
Effects of Lactobacillus salivarius isolated from feces of fast-growing pigs on intestinal microbiota and morphology of suckling piglets
Authors: Moturi Joseph , Kim Kwang Yeol , Hosseindoust Abdolreza , Lee Jun Hyung , Xuan Biao , Park Jongbin , Kim Eun Bae , Kim Jin Soo , Chae Byung Jo
Published: March 2021

The study determined the effects of Lactobacillus salivarius (LS) administered early in the life of suckling piglets on their growth performance, gut morphology, and gut microbiota. Thirty litters of 3-day-old crossbreed piglets were randomly assigned to one of the three treatments, and treatments were commenced on day 3 after birth. During the whole period of the experiment, the piglets were kept with their mothers and left to suckle ad libitum while being supplemented with a milk formula with or without the bacterial probiotic supplemented. The control group (CON) was not treated with probiotics, the HLS group was treated with LS144 (HLS) screened from feces of fast-growing pigs with high body mass index (BMI) while the NLS group was supplemented with LS160 (NLS) screened from feces obtained from pigs of normal BMI. At the weaning time, a higher abundance of Actinobacteria, Lentisphaerae, and Elusimicrobia phyla were observed in NLS piglets, whereas the abundance of Fibrobacteres phylum was significantly reduced in NLS and HLS piglets compared with the CON. A greater abundance of Lactobacillus was detected in the HLS treatment compared with the CON. The abundance of Bacteroides and Fibrobacter was higher in the CON piglets compared with the HLS and NLS piglets. Compared with the CON group, the oral administration of LS significantly increased the number of Lactobacillus and villus height in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Moreover, the villus height of the duodenum was significantly improved in the HLS treatment compared with the NLS treatment. Based on the findings in the neonatal piglet model, we suggest that oral supplementation of LS, particularly LS isolated from high BMI pigs, could be beneficial by improving the intestinal villus height.
A spiking neural network (SNN) for detecting high frequency oscillations (HFOs) in the intraoperative ECoG
Authors: Burelo Karla , Sharifshazileh Mohammadali , Krayenbühl Niklaus , Ramantani Georgia , Indiveri Giacomo , Sarnthein Johannes
Published: March 2021

To achieve seizure freedom, epilepsy surgery requires the complete resection of the epileptogenic brain tissue. In intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings, high frequency oscillations (HFOs) generated by epileptogenic tissue can be used to tailor the resection margin. However, automatic detection of HFOs in real-time remains an open challenge. Here we present a spiking neural network (SNN) for automatic HFO detection that is optimally suited for neuromorphic hardware implementation. We trained the SNN to detect HFO signals measured from intraoperative ECoG on-line, using an independently labeled dataset (58 min, 16 recordings). We targeted the detection of HFOs in the fast ripple frequency range (250-500 Hz) and compared the network results with the labeled HFO data. We endowed the SNN with a novel artifact rejection mechanism to suppress sharp transients and demonstrate its effectiveness on the ECoG dataset. The HFO rates (median 6.6 HFO/min in pre-resection recordings) detected by this SNN are comparable to those published in the dataset (Spearman’s $$\rho$$
ρ
= 0.81). The postsurgical seizure outcome was “predicted” with 100% (CI [63 100%]) accuracy for all 8 patients. These results provide a further step towards the construction of a real-time portable battery-operated HFO detection system that can be used during epilepsy surgery to guide the resection of the epileptogenic zone.
Short-term outcomes of intravitreal brolucizumab for treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration with type 1 choroidal neovascularization including polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy
Authors: Matsumoto Hidetaka , Hoshino Junki , Mukai Ryo , Nakamura Kosuke , Akiyama Hideo
Published: March 2021

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of loading phase treatment with intravitreal brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) with type 1 choroidal neovascularization (CNV). We analyzed consecutive 42 eyes of 40 patients with treatment-naïve nAMD associated with type 1 CNV. Three monthly injections of brolucizumab were completed in 36 eyes (85.7%). In those cases, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.24 ± 0.27 at baseline and improved significantly to 0.12 ± 0.23 after 3 months (P < 0.001). Central macular thickness was 301 ± 110 µm at baseline and decreased significantly to 160 ± 49 µm after 3 months (P < 0.001). Dry macula was achieved in 34 eyes (94.4%) after the loading phase. Central choroidal thickness was 264 ± 89 µm at baseline and decreased significantly to 223 ± 81 µm after 3 months (P < 0.001). Indocyanine green angiography after the loading phase revealed complete regression of polypoidal lesions in 15 of the 19 eyes (78.9%) with polypoidal lesions. Non-infectious intraocular inflammation (IOI) was observed in 8 of 42 eyes (19.0%) during the loading phase, while showing amelioration in response to combination therapy with topical and subtenon injection of steroids. In these eyes, BCVA after 3 months had not deteriorated as compared to that at baseline. These results indicate that loading phase treatment with intravitreal brolucizumab might be effective for improving visual acuity and reducing exudative changes in eyes with nAMD associated with type 1 CNV. Moreover, polypoidal lesions appear to frequently regress after this treatment. However, we must monitor patients carefully for brolucizumab-related IOI, and administer steroid therapy promptly.
Peptide-based scaffolds for the culture and maintenance of primary human hepatocytes
Authors: MacPherson Douglas , Bram Yaron , Park Jiwoon , Schwartz Robert E.
Published: March 2021

We report here the use of a nanofibrous hydrogel as a 3D scaffold for the culture and maintenance of functional primary human hepatocytes. The system is based on the cooperative assembly of a fiber-forming peptide component, fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl-diphenylalanine (Fmoc-FF), and the integrin-binding functional peptide ligand, Fmoc-arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (Fmoc-RGD) into a nanofibrous gel at physiological pH. This Fmoc-FF/RGD hydrogel was formulated to provide a biomimetic microenvironment with some critical features such as mechanical properties and nanofiber morphology, which were optimized to support hepatocyte culture. The material was shown to support maintenance and function of encapsulated primary human hepatocytes as indicated by actin staining, qRT-PCR, and functional cytochrome P450 assays. The designed gel was shown to outperform Matrigel in cytochrome P450 functional assays. The hydrogel may prove useful for liver development and disease models, as well as providing insights into the design of future implantable scaffolds for the regeneration of liver tissue in patients with liver disease.
Author Correction: Long-term molecular surveillance provides clues on a cattle origin for Mycobacterium bovis in Portugal
Authors: Reis Ana C. , Tenreiro Rogério , Albuquerque Teresa , Botelho Ana , Cunha Mónica V.
Published: March 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Phytoextraction efficiency of Pteris vittata grown on a naturally As-rich soil and characterization of As-resistant rhizosphere bacteria
Authors: Antenozio M. L. , Giannelli G. , Marabottini R. , Brunetti P. , Allevato E. , Marzi D. , Capobianco G. , Bonifazi G. , Serranti S. , Visioli G. , Stazi S. R. , Cardarelli M.
Published: March 2021

This study evaluated the phytoextraction capacity of the fern Pteris vittata grown on a natural arsenic-rich soil of volcanic-origin from the Viterbo area in central Italy. This calcareous soil is characterized by an average arsenic concentration of 750 mg kg−1, of which 28% is bioavailable. By means of micro-energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (μ-XRF) we detected As in P. vittata fronds after just 10 days of growth, while a high As concentrations in fronds (5,000 mg kg−1), determined by Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), was reached after 5.5 months. Sixteen arsenate-tolerant bacterial strains were isolated from the P. vittata rhizosphere, a majority of which belong to the Bacillus genus, and of this majority only two have been previously associated with As. Six bacterial isolates were highly As-resistant (> 100 mM) two of which, homologous to Paenarthrobacter ureafaciens and Beijerinckia fluminensis, produced a high amount of IAA and siderophores and have never been isolated from P. vittata roots. Furthermore, five isolates contained the arsenate reductase gene (arsC). We conclude that P. vittata can efficiently phytoextract As when grown on this natural As-rich soil and a consortium of bacteria, largely different from that usually found in As-polluted soils, has been found in P. vittata rhizosphere.
Increasing availability of palatable prey induces predator-dependence and increases predation on unpalatable prey
Authors: Hossie Thomas J. , Chan Kevin , Murray Dennis L.
Published: March 2021

Understanding the factors governing predation remains a top priority in ecology. Using a dragonfly nymph-tadpole system, we experimentally varied predator density, prey density, and prey species ratio to investigate: (i) whether predator interference varies between prey types that differ in palatability, (ii) whether adding alternate prey influences the magnitude of predator interference, and (iii) whether patterns of prey selection vary according to the predictions of optimal diet theory. In single-prey foraging trials, predation of palatable leopard frog tadpoles was limited by prey availability and predator interference, whereas predation of unpalatable toad tadpoles was limited by handling time. Adding unpalatable prey did not affect the predator’s kill rate of palatable prey, but the presence of palatable prey increased the influence of predator density on the kill rate of unpalatable prey and reduced unpalatable prey handling time. Prey selection did not change with shifts in the relative abundance of prey types. Instead, predators selected easy-to-capture unpalatable prey at low total densities and harder-to-capture palatable prey at high densities. These results improve our understanding of generalist predation in communities with mobile prey, and illustrate that characteristics of the prey types involved govern the extent to which alternate prey influence the predator’s kill rate.
Spatio-temporal predictive modeling framework for infectious disease spread
Authors: Ganesan Sashikumaar , Subramani Deepak
Published: March 2021

A novel predictive modeling framework for the spread of infectious diseases using high-dimensional partial differential equations is developed and implemented. A scalar function representing the infected population is defined on a high-dimensional space and its evolution over all the directions is described by a population balance equation (PBE). New infections are introduced among the susceptible population from a non-quarantined infected population based on their interaction, adherence to distancing norms, hygiene levels and any other societal interventions. Moreover, recovery, death, immunity and all aforementioned parameters are modeled on the high-dimensional space. To epitomize the capabilities and features of the above framework, prognostic estimates of Covid-19 spread using a six-dimensional (time, 2D space, infection severity, duration of infection, and population age) PBE is presented. Further, scenario analysis for different policy interventions and population behavior is presented, throwing more insights into the spatio-temporal spread of infections across duration of disease, infection severity and age of the population. These insights could be used for science-informed policy planning.
Chondrogenic and BMP-4 primings confer osteogenesis potential to human cord blood mesenchymal stromal cells delivered with biphasic calcium phosphate ceramics
Authors: Brennan Meadhbh Á. , Barilani Mario , Rusconi Francesco , de Lima Julien , Vidal Luciano , Lavazza Cristiana , Lazzari Lorenza , Giordano Rosaria , Layrolle Pierre
Published: March 2021

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BMSCs) show great promise for bone repair, however they are isolated by an invasive bone marrow harvest and their regenerative potential decreases with age. Conversely, cord blood can be collected non-invasively after birth and contains MSCs (CBMSCs) that can be stored for future use. However, whether CBMSCs can replace BMSCs targeting bone repair is unknown. This study evaluates the in vitro osteogenic potential of unprimed, osteogenically primed, or chondrogenically primed CBMSCs and BMSCs and their in vivo bone forming capacity following ectopic implantation on biphasic calcium phosphate ceramics in nude mice. In vitro, alkaline phosphatase (intracellular, extracellular, and gene expression), and secretion of osteogenic cytokines (osteoprotegerin and osteocalcin) was significantly higher in BMSCs compared with CBMSCs, while CBMSCs demonstrated superior chondrogenic differentiation and secretion of interleukins IL-6 and IL-8. BMSCs yielded significantly more cell engraftment and ectopic bone formation compared to CBMSCs. However, priming of CBMSCs with either chondrogenic or BMP-4 supplements led to bone formation by CBMSCs. This study is the first direct quantification of the bone forming abilities of BMSCs and CBMSCs in vivo and, while revealing the innate superiority of BMSCs for bone repair, it provides avenues to induce osteogenesis by CBMSCs.
Self-buffering capacity of a human sulfatase for central nervous system delivery
Authors: Wen Yi , Salamat-Miller Nazila , Jain Keethkumar , Taylor Katherine
Published: March 2021

Direct delivery of therapeutic enzymes to the Central Nervous System requires stringent formulation design. Not only should the formulation design consider the delicate balance of existing ions, proteins, and osmolality in the cerebrospinal fluid, it must also provide long term efficacy and stability for the enzyme. One fundamental approach to this predicament is designing formulations with no buffering species. In this study, we report a high concentration, saline-based formulation for a human sulfatase for its delivery into the intrathecal space. A high concentration formulation (≤ 40 mg/mL) was developed through a series of systematic studies that demonstrated the feasibility of a self-buffered formulation for this molecule. The self-buffering capacity phenomenon was found to be a product of both the protein itself and potentially the residual phosphates associated with the protein. To date, the self-buffered formulation for this molecule has been stable for up to 4 years when stored at 5 ± 3 °C, with no changes either in the pH values or other quality attributes of the molecule. The high concentration self-buffered protein formulation was also observed to be stable when exposed to multiple freeze–thaw cycles and was robust during in-use and agitation studies.
Regression analysis and driving force model building of CO2 emissions in China
Authors: Zhou Yi , Zhang Jinyan , Hu Shanying
Published: March 2021

In recent years, global warming has become increasingly devastating, leading to severe consequences, such as extreme weather events and sea-level rise. To reduce carbon dioxide emissions, it is essential to recognize different emission sources and key driving factors. Three main carbon emission sources from the period between 1990 and 2017 were identified in China: the energy industry, fuel combustion in other industries, and industrial process. For each source, a driving force model was developed via multiple linear regression. Based on these models, forecasts of the carbon intensity and total CO2 emissions were obtained from 2018 to 2030. The results demonstrate that the CO2 emission intensity and total emissions will continue to decrease but more effort will be required to achieve the goal of Paris Agreement.
Met carriers of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism show reduced Glx/NAA in the pregenual ACC in two independent cohorts
Authors: Martens Louise , Herrmann Luisa , Colic Lejla , Li Meng , Richter Anni , Behnisch Gusalija , Stork Oliver , Seidenbecher Constanze , Schott Björn H. , Walter Martin
Published: March 2021

The Met allele of the Val66Met SNP of theBDNFgene (rs6265) is associated with impaired activity-dependent release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), resulting in reduced synaptic plasticity, impaired glutamatergic neurotransmission, and morphological changes. While previous work has demonstrated Val66Met effects on magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) markers of either glutamatergic metabolism (Glx) or neuronal integrity (NAA), no study has investigated Val66Met effects on these related processes simultaneously. As these metabolites share a metabolic pathway, the Glx/NAA ratio may be a more sensitive marker of changes associated with the Val66Met SNP. This ratio is increased in psychiatric disorders linked to decreased functioning in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). In this study, we investigated the correlation of the Val66Met polymorphism of theBDNFgene with Glx/NAA in the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC) using MRS at 3 Tesla (T) (n = 30, all males) and 7 T (n = 98, 40 females). In both cohorts, Met carriers had lower Glx/NAA compared to Val homozygotes. Follow-up analyses using absolute quantification revealed that the Met carriers do not show decreased pgACC glutamate or glutamine levels, but instead show increased NAA compared to the Val homozygotes. This finding may in part explain conflicting evidence for Val66Met as a risk factor for developing psychiatric illnesses.
Thyroid hormone insufficiency alters the expression of psychiatric disorder-related molecules in the hypothyroid mouse brain during the early postnatal period
Authors: Uchida Katsuya , Hasuoka Kentaro , Fuse Toshimitsu , Kobayashi Kenichi , Moriya Takahiro , Suzuki Mao , Katayama Norihiro , Itoi Keiichi
Published: March 2021

The functional role of thyroid hormone (TH) in the cortex and hippocampus of mouse during neuronal development was investigated in this study. TH insufficiency showed a decrease in the expression of parvalbumin (PV) in the cortex and hippocampus of pups at postnatal day (PD) 14, while treatment with thyroxine from PD 0 to PD 14 ameliorated the PV loss. On the other hand, treatment with antithyroid agents in adulthood did not result in a decrease in the expression of PV in these areas. These results indicate the existence of a critical period of TH action during the early postnatal period. A decrease in MeCP2-positive neuronal nuclei was also observed in the cortical layers II–IV of the cerebral cortex. The brains were then stained with CUX1, a marker for cortical layers II–IV. In comparison with normal mice, CUX1 signals were decreased in the somatosensory cortex of the hypothyroid mice, and the total thickness of cortical layers II–IV of the mice was lower than that of normal mice. These results suggest that TH insufficiency during the perinatal period strongly and broadly affects neuronal development.
The reduction of the thermal quenching effect in laser-excited phosphor converters using highly thermally conductive hBN particles
Authors: Zabiliūtė-Karaliūnė Akvilė , Aglinskaitė Justina , Vitta Prancis̆kus
Published: March 2021

Phosphor converters for solid state lighting applications experience a strong thermal stress under high-excitation power densities. The recent interest in laser diode based lighting has made this issue even more severe. This research presents an effective approach to reduce the thermal quenching effect and damage of laser-excited phosphor-silicone converters using thermally conductive hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) particles. Herein, the samples are analyzed by employing phosphor thermometry based on the photoluminescence decay time, and thermo-imaging techniques. The study shows that hBN particle incorporation increases the thermal conductivity of a phosphor-silicone mixture up to 5 times. It turns out, that the addition of hBN to the Eu$$^{2+}$$

2
+

doped chalcogenide-silicone converters can increase the top-limit excitation power density from 60 to 180 W cm$$^{-2}$$

-
2

, thus reaching a 2.5 times higher output. Moreover, it is shown that the presence of hBN in Ce$$^{3+}$$

3
+

activated garnet phosphor converters, may increase the output power by up to 1.8 times and that such converters can withstand 218 W cm$$^{-2}$$

-
2

excitation. Besides, hBN particles are also found to enhance the stability of the converters chromaticity and luminous efficacy of radiation. This means that the addition of hBN particles into silicone-based phosphor converter media is applicable in a wide range of different areas, in particular, the ones requiring a high optical power output density.
A randomized clinical trial of dentin hypersensitivity reduction over one month after a single topical application of comparable materials
Authors: Abuzinadah Samar Hatem , Alhaddad Abdulrahman Jafar
Published: March 2021

Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) is a condition that causes patient discomfort. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Gluma, fluoride varnish and Tetric N-Bond self-etch system in relieving DH immediately and over 30 days following a single topical application. The present randomized clinical trial was conducted on 55 patients with an age range 20–49 years. 70 teeth in total were incorporated and randomly assigned to the three groups. Parameters examined were: Tactile, air blast, and cold stimuli. VAS was used to assess tactile stimulus whereas the Schiff Cold Scale for air blast and cold stimuli. DH was evaluated immediately, at two weeks and 1 month follow up. Gluma showed a statistically significant reduction in DH scores over other materials. It was concluded that Gluma have statistically significant results over other materials in relieving DH immediately and over 30 days following a single topical application.

Trial Registration: Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT04351412, King Abdulaziz University Protocol Record 129-09-19. Registered 17 April 2020 – Retrospectively registered. http://ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT04351412.
Distributions of Arctic and Northwest Atlantic killer whales inferred from oxygen isotopes
Authors: Matthews Cory J. D. , Longstaffe Fred J. , Lawson Jack W. , Ferguson Steven H.
Published: March 2021

Killer whales (Orcinus orca) are distributed widely in all oceans, although they are most common in coastal waters of temperate and high-latitude regions. The species’ distribution has not been fully described in the northwest Atlantic (NWA), where killer whales move into seasonally ice-free waters of the eastern Canadian Arctic (ECA) and occur year-round off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador farther south. We measured stable oxygen and carbon isotope ratios in dentine phosphate (δ18OP) and structural carbonate (δ18OSC, δ13CSC) of whole teeth and annual growth layers from killer whales that stranded in the ECA (n = 11) and NWA (n = 7). Source δ18O of marine water (δ18Omarine) at location of origin was estimated from dentine δ18OPvalues, and then compared with predicted isoscape values to assign individual distributions. Dentine δ18OPvalues were also assessed against those of other known-origin North Atlantic odontocetes for spatial reference. Most ECA and NWA killer whales had mean δ18OPand estimated δ18Omarinevalues consistent with18O-depleted, high-latitude waters north of the Gulf Stream, above which a marked decrease in baseline δ18O values occurs. Several individuals, however, had relatively high values that reflected origins in18O-enriched, low-latitude waters below this boundary. Within-tooth δ18OSCranges on the order of 1–2‰ indicated interannual variation in distribution. Different distributions inferred from oxygen isotopes suggest there is not a single killer whale population distributed across the northwest Atlantic, and corroborate dietary and morphological differences of purported ecotypes in the region.
Predictors of glycosylated haemoglobin A1C trend among type 2 diabetes patients in a multi-ethnic country
Authors: Wan Kim Sui , Hairi Noran Naqiah , Mustapha Feisul Idzwan , Mohd Yusof Khalijah , Mohd Ali Zainudin , Moy Foong Ming
Published: March 2021

Good control of glycosylated haemoglobin A1C in diabetes patients prevents cardiovascular complications. We aim to describe the A1C trend and determine the predictors of the trend among type 2 diabetes patients in Malaysia. Longitudinal data in the National Diabetes Registry from 2013 to 2017 were analysed using linear mixed-effects modelling. Among 17,592 patients, 56.3% were females, 64.9% Malays, and the baseline mean age was 59.1 years. The U-shaped A1C trend changed marginally from 7.89% in 2013 to 8.07% in 2017. The A1C excess of 1.07% as reported in 2017 represented about 22% higher risk of diabetes-related death, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which are potentially preventable. The predictors for higher baseline A1C were non-Chinese ethnicity, younger age groups, longer diabetes duration, patients on insulin treatment, polypharmacy use, patients without hypertension, and patients who were not on antihypertensive agents. Younger age groups predicted a linear increase in the A1C trend, whereas patients on insulin treatment predicted a linear decrease in the A1C trend. Specifically, the younger adults and patients of Indian and Malay ethnicities had the poorest A1C trends. Targeted interventions should be directed at these high-risk groups to improve their A1C control.
Stability of uniformly labeled (13C and 15N) cytochrome c and its L94G mutant
Authors: Naiyer Abdullah , Khan Bushra , Hussain Afzal , Islam Asimul , Alajmi Mohamed F. , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz , Sundd Monica , Ahmad Faizan
Published: March 2021

Cytochrome c (cyt c) is widely used as a model protein to study (i) folding and stability aspects of the protein folding problem and (ii) structure–function relationship from the evolutionary point of view. Databases of cyts c now contain 285 cyt c sequences from different organisms. A sequence alignment of all these proteins with respect to horse cyt c led to several important conclusions. One of them is that Leu94 is always conserved in all 30 mammalian cyts c. It is known that mutation L94G of the wild type (WT) horse cyt c is destabilizing and mutant exists as molten globule under the native condition (buffer pH 6 and 25 °C). We have expressed and purified uniformly labeled (13C and 15N) and unlabeled WT horse cyt c and its L94G mutant. We report that labeling does not affect the thermodynamic stability of proteins. To support this conclusion, the secondary and tertiary structure of each protein in labeled and unlabeled forms was determined by conventional techniques (UV–Vis absorption and circular dichroism spectroscopy).
Greater reductions in blood flow after anti-angiogenic treatment in non-small cell lung cancer patients are associated with shorter progression-free survival
Authors: Katayama Daisuke , Yanagawa Masahiro , Matsunaga Keiko , Watabe Hiroshi , Watabe Tadashi , Kato Hiroki , Kijima Takashi , Takeda Yoshito , Kumanogoh Atsushi , Shimosegawa Eku , Hatazawa Jun , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: March 2021

To evaluate tumor blood flow using 15O-water positron emission tomography (PET) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) before and after chemotherapy with bevacizumab, and to investigate the effects of bevacizumab on tumor blood flow changes and progression-free survival (PFS). Twelve patients with NSCLC were enrolled. Six patients underwent chemotherapy with bevacizumab and the other six without bevacizumab. 15O-water dynamic PET scans were performed within 1 week before the start of chemotherapy and within 1 week after the first day of chemotherapy. Tumor blood flow was analyzed quantitatively using a single one-tissue compartment model with the correction of pulmonary circulation blood volume and arterial blood volume via an image-derived input function. In the bevacizumab group, mean tumor blood flow was statistically significantly reduced post-chemotherapy (pre-chemotherapy 0.27 ± 0.14 mL/cm3/min, post-chemotherapy 0.18 ± 0.12 mL/cm3/min). In the no bevacizumab group, there was no significant difference between mean tumor perfusion pre-chemotherapy (0.42 ± 0.42 mL/cm3/min) and post-chemotherapy (0.40 ± 0.27 mL/cm3/min). In the bevacizumab group, there was a positive correlation between the blood flow ratio (tumor blood flow post-chemotherapy/tumor blood flow pre-chemotherapy) and PFS (correlation coefficient 0.94). Mean tumor blood flow decreases after bevacizumab administration and was positively correlated with longer PFS.
Biomimetic CO2 hydration activity of boronic acids
Authors: Verma Manju , Sai Phani Kumar V. , Kumar Shashi , Deshpande Parag A.
Published: March 2021

Inspired by the recent experimental reports on boron containing compounds to be active and biomimetic for carbon capture, we report the mechanistic details of CO2 hydration activities of boronic acids using density functional theory calculations.
Lewis pairing and frustration of group 13/15 elements geometrically enforced by (ace)naphthalene, biphenylene and (thio)xanthene backbones
Authors: Sadek Omar , Bouhadir Ghenwa , Bourissou Didier
Published: March 2021

The synthesis, structure, and reactivity of mixed group 13/group 15 compounds (E13 = B, Al, Ga, In, Tl; E15 = N, P, Sb, Bi) featuring a rigid (ace)naphthalene, biphenylene or (thio)xanthene backbone are discussed in this review.
Automated fluorescence quantification of extracellular vesicles collected from blood plasma using dielectrophoresis
Authors: Gustafson Kyle T. , Huynh Katherine T. , Heineck Daniel , Bueno Jesus , Modestino Augusta , Kim Sejung , Gower Austin , Armstrong Randall , Schutt Carolyn E. , Ibsen Stuart D.
Published: March 2021

Described is a fully automated algorithm and a particle-based internal standard to optically quantify immunostained particles collected using microfluidic chips.
Large-scale fabrication of a durable and self-healing super-hydrophobic coating with high thermal stability and long-term corrosion resistance
Authors: Li Dawei , Ma Liangji , Zhang Bo , Chen Shaohua
Published: March 2021

A durable and self-healing super-hydrophobic coating with high thermal stability and long-term corrosion resistance was successfully fabricated by a simple and environmentally friendly method based on multiple hybridizations.
Lanthanide doped luminescence nanothermometers in the biological windows: strategies and applications
Authors: Nexha Albenc , Carvajal Joan Josep , Pujol Maria Cinta , Díaz Francesc , Aguiló Magdalena
Published: March 2021

The development of lanthanide-doped non-contact luminescent nanothermometers operating in the biological windows spectral regions, the strategies to improve their thermal sensitivities, and their applications have been reviewed.
(Very) polar organic compounds in the Danube river basin: a non-target screening workflow and prioritization strategy for extracting highly confident features
Authors: Minkus Susanne , Bieber Stefan , Letzel Thomas
Published: March 2021

A hidden-target screening workflow to tentatively identify polar organic molecules yielded 67 candidate substances of which 11 are considered to be of high priority for the Danube river basin.
A highly efficient Fe–Ni–S/NF hybrid electrode for promoting oxygen evolution performance
Authors: Chen Yuyun , Xu Yang , Niu Shuai , Yan Jun , Wu Yeyu , Du Fangkai , Zhao Yanzhi , Zhu Zhongren , Jiang Zhijiong , Tan Xuecai
Published: March 2021

In this study, a Fe–Ni–S/NF hybrid electrode was fabricated via a simple hydrothermal and ion exchange method, and it shown remarkable OER performance in an alkaline solution at an ultralow overpotential (1000 mA cm−2@384 mV) and outstanding stability.
Thermally-induced hyperbranching of bromine-containing polyesters by insertion of in situ generated chain-end carbenes
Authors: Bexis Panagiotis , Arno Maria C. , Bell Craig A. , Thomas Anthony W. , Dove Andrew P.
Published: March 2021

Thermolysis of a diazirine end group of a Br-functional PCL leads to carbene generation and subsequent hyperbranched polymers. Grafting of a hydrophilic PEG yields amphiphilic polymers which self-assemble into spherical core–shell nanoparticles.
Correlating Bromelain's activity with its structure and active-site dynamics and the medium's physical properties in a hydrated deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Das Nilimesh , Khan Tanmoy , Subba Navin , Sen Pratik
Published: March 2021

A more compact structural conformation, higher active-site flexibility, lower viscosity, and higher solvent medium polarity are found to probably facilitate enzymatic activity in a hydrated deep eutectic solvent (DES).
Pressure- and temperature-dependent inelastic neutron scattering study of the phase transition and phonon lattice dynamics inpara-terphenyl
Authors: Cai Qingan , McIntire Michael , Daemen Luke L. , Li Chen , Chronister Eric L.
Published: March 2021

Temperature and pressure dependent inelastic neutron scattering has been performed on para-terphenyl. The results suggest a lack of phase transition in the measured region and indicate the strong anharmonic phonon dynamics in para-terphenyl.
Sulfur nanoparticles/Ti3C2TxMXene with an optimum sulfur content as a cathode for highly stable lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Aoning , Chen Yixuan , Liu Li , Liu Xiang , Wang Zhoulu , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2021

Our work provides a guide to the preparation of sulfur-based cathodes with an appropriate sulfur content for highly stable LSBs.
High-speed solid state fluorination of Nb2O5 yields NbO2F and Nb3O7F with photocatalytic activity for oxygen evolution from water
Authors: Lange Martin Alexander , Khan Ibrahim , Dören René , Ashraf Muhammad , Qurashi Ahsanulhaq , Prädel Leon , Panthöfer Martin , von der Au Marcus , Cossmer Antje , Pfeifer Jens , Meermann Björn , Mondeshki Mihail , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Tremel Wolfgang
Published: March 2021

NbO2F and Nb3O7F were prepared by field-assisted chemistry from Nb2O5 and Teflon scrap in minutes, while chemistry requires days. NbO2F and Nb3O7F show high photocatalytic activity for water splitting, whereas the conventional products are inactive.
Eu3+-functionalized CQD hybrid material: synthesis, luminescence properties and sensing application for the detection of Cu2+
Authors: Li Ying , Liu Dan , Wang Ya-Qi , Wang Fang-Fang , Qiu Han-Xun
Published: March 2021

We develop a novel flexible method to construct a lanthanide dual-emitting ratiometric fluorescence nanoprobe with excellent luminescence properties and significantly selectivity for the detection of copper ions.
Selanyl and tellanyl electrophiles as a driving force in the construction of sophisticated polyaromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Arsenyan Pavel , Petrenko Alla , Belyakov Sergey
Published: March 2021

Herein, we report the first examples ofN-polyaromatic compounds bearing up to 13 fused aromatic rings, including 23H-benzo[12,1]tetrapheno[8,9-b]benzo[12,1]tetrapheno[9,8-h]carbazole derivatives.
A new synthesis of highly active Rh–Co alloy nanoparticles supported on N-doped porous carbon for catalytic C–Se cross-coupling andp-nitrophenol hydrogenation reactions
Authors: Annas Dicky , Lee Hack-Keun , Hira Shamim Ahmed , Park Ji Chan , Park Kang Hyun
Published: March 2021

New Rh–Co/NPC synthesized through a one-pot thermal reduction synthesis has a high catalytic activity for organic chemistry reactions.
An N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed switchable reaction of 9-(trimethylsilyl)fluorene and aldehydes: chemoselective synthesis of dibenzofulvenes and fluorenyl alcohols
Authors: Ma Yu-Chuan , Luo Jin-Yun , Zhang Shi-Chu , Lu Shu-Hui , Du Guang-Fen , He Lin
Published: March 2021

N-Heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed chemoselective synthesis of dibenzofulvenes and fluorenyl alcohols via switchable reactions of 9-(trimethylsilyl)fluorene and aldehydes.
Photocontrolled bromine–iodine transformation reversible-deactivation radical polymerization: facile synthesis of star copolymers and unimolecular micelles
Authors: Li Haihui , Zhao Haitao , Yao Lan , Zhang Lifen , Cheng Zhenping , Zhu Xiulin
Published: March 2021

A facile strategy of synthesizing star copolymers was successfully established via photocontrolled BIT-RDRP. The obtained copolymers have well-defined four-arm amphiphilic block architecture and can form stable unimolecular micelles in water.
Green synthesis route for MCM-49 zeolite using a seed-assisted method by virtue of an ultraphonic aging procedure
Authors: Wang Yanan , Li Xiujie , Gao Yang , Chen Fucun , Liu Zhenni , An Jie , Xie Sujuan , Xu Longya , Zhu Xiangxue
Published: March 2021

Highly crystallized MCM-49 zeolite can be obtained using the as-made MCM-49 as the seed without the addition of OSDA under mild conditions (140 °C, 30–38 h) with the aid of the ultraphonic aging procedure.
Recent progress of nanostructured metal chalcogenides and their carbon-based hybrids for advanced potassium battery anodes
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Sun Rui , Qin Zhaoxia , Liu Xinlong , Wang Caihong , Fan Haosen , Zhang Yufei , Lu Shengjun
Published: March 2021

In this overview, the recent achievements of metal chalcogenides (MCs), their carbon-based hybrids, and the effects of nanostructured MCs on the future of PIBs technologies are discussed in detail by studying their inherent diverse attributes.