bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexually transmitted infections knowledge in different populations attending a French university hospital: a prospective observational study
Authors: Alfaiate Dulce , Giaché Susanna , Pradat Pierre , Cotte Laurent , Chidiac Christian ,   the Croix-Rousse STI Study Group
Published: April 2021

We conducted a prospective study about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) knowledge in different populations attending Lyon's University Hospitals in order to estimate awareness on STIs. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)-users (PrEP group), persons living with HIV (PLWH group) and persons undergoing free STI screening (screening group) filled an anonymous questionnaire evaluating STI knowledge. A composite STI knowledge score was calculated and was correlated with patients’ characteristics. A total of 756 patients were enrolled in three groups: screening (n= 509), PrEP (n= 103) and PLWH (n= 144). STI transmission knowledge was better for HIV than for other STIs. The median STI knowledge score was significantly higher in PrEP-users than in the screening and PLWH groups. PrEP use and a previous STI diagnosis were independently associated with a higher score. PrEP-users have better STI knowledge than PLWH and persons undergoing free STI screening. Sexual health promotion interventions routinely reserved to PrEP-users in France seem to be effective in raising the awareness of this group for STIs. Continuous efforts are justified for PLWH and the younger layers of the population.
S3-Leitlinie „Rauchen und Tabakabhängigkeit: Screening, Diagnostik und Behandlung“
Authors: Batra Anil , Kiefer Falk , Andreas Stefan , Gohlke Helmut , Klein Marianne , Kotz Daniel , Mons Ute , Mühlig Stephan , Pötschke-Langer Martina , Preuss Ulrich W. , Rüther Tobias , Rustler Christa , Thomasius Rainer , Ulbricht Sabina , Petersen Kay Uwe
Published: April 2021

Zusammenfassung. Einleitung: Neben der Prävention des Tabakkonsums bleibt die Herstellung und Sicherung eines hohen Niveaus der Behandlungsqualität bei schädlichem Gebrauch und Abhängigkeit von Tabakprodukten eine wichtige gesundheitsbezogene Aufgabe in Deutschland. Eine regelmäßige Aktualisierung der AWMF-S3-Leitlinie „Rauchen und Tabakabhängigkeit: Screening, Diagnostik und Behandlung“ schafft eine nachhaltige und seriöse Quelle für den Wissensstand zur Tabakentwöhnung. Methoden: Unter Federführung der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie, Psychosomatik und Nervenheilkunde (DGPPN) und der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Suchtforschung und Suchttherapie e. V. (DG-Sucht) wurde die Tabakleitlinie 2019–2020 von insgesamt 63 am Entstehungsprozess des Textes beteiligten Personen in 11 Arbeitsgruppen überarbeitet. Der Einfluss von Interessenkonflikten (COI) konnte durch ein sorgfältiges COI-Management minimiert werden. Über die 80 Leitlinienempfehlungen diskutierten Delegierte aus 50 Fachgesellschaften und stimmten in einem moderierten Konsensprozess online ab. Ergebnisse: Neben Empfehlungen zum Screening und zur Diagnostik nimmt die Leitlinie positiv Stellung zur Nutzung niederschwelliger Beratungs- und Unterstützungsangebote. Falls aufgrund des Schweregrads der tabakbezogenen Störung Kurzberatung, Telefonberatung oder Internet- bzw. Smartphone-gestützte Verfahren nicht hinreichend wirksam sind, ist eine verhaltenstherapeutisch basierte Einzel- oder Gruppenbehandlung, ggf. in Verbindung mit Medikamenten, indiziert. Wenn eine Nikotinersatztherapie nicht wirksam sein sollte, soll Vareniclin oder Bupropion angeboten werden. Alternative Strategien mit niedrigerem Empfehlungsgrad sind Hypnotherapie, achtsamkeitsbasierte Verfahren, oder auch Cytisin. Bei Jugendlichen und Schwangeren ist das Angebot von Medikamenten auf genau spezifizierte Ausnahmen und Nikotinersatz zu beschränken. Die mittlere Zustimmung für die Empfehlungen der Leitlinie erreichte 98 %. Eine Gesamtübersicht über die Behandlungsempfehlungen der Tabakleitlinie geben drei klinische Algorithmen.
A Comparison of Mixed Multiscale Finite Element Methods for Multiphase Transport in Highly Heterogeneous Media
Authors: Wang Yiran , Chung Eric , Fu Shubin , Huang Zhaoqin
Published: April 2021

In this study, we systemically review and compare two mixed multiscale finite element methods (MMsFEM) for multiphase transport in highly heterogeneous media. In particular, we will consider the mixed multiscale finite element method using limited global information, simply denoted by MMsFEM, and the mixed generalized multiscale finite element method (MGMsFEM) with residual driven online multiscale basis functions. Both methods are within the framework of MMsFEM, where the pressure equation is solved in the coarse grids with carefully constructed multiscale basis functions for the velocity. The multiscale basis functions in both methods include local and global media information. In terms of MsFEM using limited global information, only one multiscale basis function is utilized in each local neighborhood, while multiple bases are used in MGMsFEM. We will test and compare these two methods using the benchmark three‐dimensional SPE10 model. A range of coarse grid sizes and different combinations of basis functions (offline and online) will be considered with CPU time reported for each case. In our numerical experiments, we observe good accuracy by the two above methods. Finally, we will discuss and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two methods in terms of accuracy and computational costs.
Magnetospheric Multiscale Observations of the Source Region of Energetic Electron Microinjections Along the Duskside, High‐Latitude Magnetopause Boundary Layer
Authors: Nykyri K. , Johnson J. , Kronberg E. , Turner D. , Wing S. , Cohen I. , Sorathia K. , Ma X. , Burkholder B. , Reeves G. , Fennell J.
Published: April 2021

The present paper demonstrates the first observations by the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission of the counter‐streaming energetic electrons and trapped energetic protons, localized in the magnetic field depressions between the mirror mode peaks, in the Earth's dusk sector high‐latitude magnetosphere. This region is characterized by high plasma beta, strong ion temperature anisotropy, and intermediate plasma density between magnetospheric and magnetosheath plasma. We show that these plasma conditions are unstable for the drift mirror instability. The counter‐streaming electron feature resembles those of the previously reported energetic electron microinjections, but without the energy‐time dispersion signature. This suggests that MMS is passing through one of the potential microinjection source regions. The energetic ion data in the present study is mainly used to estimate the scale size of the mirror mode structures.
The Dominant Contribution of Southern Ocean Heat Uptake to Time‐Evolving Radiative Feedback in CESM
Authors: Lin Yuan‐Jen , Hwang Yen‐Ting , Lu Jian , Liu Fukai , Rose Brian E. J.
Published: April 2021

In most fully coupled climate models, the net radiative feedback magnitude decreases with time after abruptly quadrupling CO2. Hypotheses have been raised to explain the time dependence of radiative feedbacks, including the influence from surface warming pattern and ocean heat uptake (OHU) pattern. By using the Green's Function derived from pairs of simulations in the atmospheric model (CAM5) coupled with a slab‐ocean, with each simulation being forced by a localized surface heat flux anomaly, we evaluate the influences of regional OHU on transient surface warming pattern, accounting for the changes in radiative feedbacks. The attribution of the time‐evolving net radiative feedback highlights the remote impact from OHU over the Southern Ocean on tropical sea surface temperature. The time‐dependent weakening of OHU over the Southern Ocean gives rise to increasingly enhanced surface warming in southeastern Pacific, which leads to decreasing tropospheric stability and more positive cloud feedback decades after quadrupling CO2.
RNA binding of Hfq monomers promotes RelA-mediated hexamerization in a limiting Hfq environment
Authors: Basu Pallabi , Elgrably-Weiss Maya , Hassouna Fouad , Kumar Manoj , Wiener Reuven , Altuvia Shoshy
Published: April 2021

The RNA chaperone Hfq, acting as a hexamer, is a known mediator of post-transcriptional regulation, expediting basepairing between small RNAs (sRNAs) and their target mRNAs. However, the intricate details associated with Hfq-RNA biogenesis are still unclear. Previously, we reported that the stringent response regulator, RelA, is a functional partner of Hfq that facilitates Hfq-mediated sRNA–mRNA regulation in vivo and induces Hfq hexamerization in vitro. Here we show that RelA-mediated Hfq hexamerization requires an initial binding of RNA, preferably sRNA to Hfq monomers. By interacting with a Shine–Dalgarno-like sequence (GGAG) in the sRNA, RelA stabilizes the initially unstable complex of RNA bound-Hfq monomer, enabling the attachment of more Hfq subunits to form a functional hexamer. Overall, our study showing that RNA binding to Hfq monomers is at the heart of RelA-mediated Hfq hexamerization, challenges the previous concept that only Hfq hexamers can bind RNA.
Activation of von Willebrand factor via mechanical unfolding of its discontinuous autoinhibitory module
Authors: Arce Nicholas A. , Cao Wenpeng , Brown Alexander K. , Legan Emily R. , Wilson Moriah S. , Xu Emma-Ruoqi , Berndt Michael C. , Emsley Jonas , Zhang X. Frank , Li Renhao
Published: April 2021

Von Willebrand factor (VWF) activates in response to shear flow to initiate hemostasis, while aberrant activation could lead to thrombosis. Above a critical shear force, the A1 domain of VWF becomes activated and captures platelets via the GPIb-IX complex. Here we show that the shear-responsive element controlling VWF activation resides in the discontinuous autoinhibitory module (AIM) flanking A1. Application of tensile force in a single-molecule setting induces cooperative unfolding of the AIM to expose A1. The AIM-unfolding force is lowered by truncating either N- or C-terminal AIM region, type 2B VWD mutations, or binding of a ristocetin-mimicking monoclonal antibody, all of which could activate A1. Furthermore, the AIM is mechanically stabilized by the nanobody that comprises caplacizumab, the only FDA-approved anti-thrombotic drug to-date that targets VWF. Thus, the AIM is a mechano-regulator of VWF activity. Its conformational dynamics may define the extent of VWF autoinhibition and subsequent activation under force.
Ordered clustering of single atomic Te vacancies in atomically thin PtTe2 promotes hydrogen evolution catalysis
Authors: Li Xinzhe , Fang Yiyun , Wang Jun , Fang Hanyan , Xi Shibo , Zhao Xiaoxu , Xu Danyun , Xu Haomin , Yu Wei , Hai Xiao , Chen Cheng , Yao Chuanhao , Tao Hua Bing , Howe Alexander G. R. , Pennycook Stephen J. , Liu Bin , Lu Jiong , Su Chenliang
Published: April 2021

Exposing and stabilizing undercoordinated platinum (Pt) sites and therefore optimizing their adsorption to reactive intermediates offers a desirable strategy to develop highly efficient Pt-based electrocatalysts. However, preparation of atomically controllable Pt-based model catalysts to understand the correlation between electronic structure, adsorption energy, and catalytic properties of atomic Pt sites is still challenging. Herein we report the atomically thin two-dimensional PtTe2 nanosheets with well-dispersed single atomic Te vacancies (Te-SAVs) and atomically well-defined undercoordinated Pt sites as a model electrocatalyst. A controlled thermal treatment drives the migration of the Te-SAVs to form thermodynamically stabilized, ordered Te-SAV clusters, which decreases both the density of states of undercoordinated Pt sites around the Fermi level and the interacting orbital volume of Pt sites. As a result, the binding strength of atomically defined Pt active sites to H intermediates is effectively reduced, which renders PtTe2 nanosheets highly active and stable in hydrogen evolution reaction.
Distance to native climatic niche margins explains establishment success of alien mammals
Authors: Broennimann Olivier , Petitpierre Blaise , Chevalier Mathieu , González-Suárez Manuela , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Rolland Jonathan , Gray Sarah M. , Bacher Sven , Guisan Antoine
Published: April 2021

One key hypothesis explaining the fate of exotic species introductions posits that the establishment of a self-sustaining population in the invaded range can only succeed within conditions matching the native climatic niche. Yet, this hypothesis remains untested for individual release events. Using a dataset of 979 introductions of 173 mammal species worldwide, we show that climate-matching to the realized native climatic niche, measured by a new Niche Margin Index (NMI), is a stronger predictor of establishment success than most previously tested life-history attributes and historical factors. Contrary to traditional climatic suitability metrics derived from species distribution models, NMI is based on niche margins and provides a measure of how distant a site is inside or, importantly, outside the niche. Besides many applications in research in ecology and evolution, NMI as a measure of native climatic niche-matching in risk assessments could improve efforts to prevent invasions and avoid costly eradications.
Efficacy of induction regimens for cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-infected adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Chang-Hua , Li Hua , Chen Hsien-Meng , Chen Yu-Min , Chang Yu-Jun , Lin Pao-Yen , Hsu Chih-Wei , Tseng Ping-Tao , Lin Kai-Huang , Tu Yu-Kang
Published: April 2021

Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is the most fatal adult meningitis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). There is no conclusive evidence for the superiority of 1-week amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmphB) + flucytosine (5-FC) regimen over other antifungals in the management of HIV patients with CM (HIV–CM patients). We aimed to evaluate the differences in efficacy and tolerability of different antifungal agents in HIV–CM patients by conducting a current network meta-analysis NMA. Overall, 19 randomized controlled trials were included with 2642 participants. A regimen indicated a possibly lower early mortality rate, namely, AmphB + 5-FC + Azole (OR = 1.1E−12, 95% CIs = 1.3E−41 to 0.06) comparing to AmphB + 5-FC. The current NMA provides evidence that AmphB + 5-FC + Azole are superior to all the investigated treatments for induction regimen in HIV–CM patients.
The construction and visualization of the transmission networks for COVID-19: A potential solution for contact tracing and assessments of epidemics
Authors: Luo Caiying , Ma Yue , Jiang Pei , Zhang Tao , Yin Fei
Published: April 2021

The WHO has described coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic due to the speed and scale of its transmission. Without effective interventions, the rapidly increasing number of COVID-19 cases would greatly increase the burden of clinical treatments. Identifying the transmission sources and pathways is of vital importance to block transmission and allocate limited public health resources. According to the relationships among cases, we constructed disease transmission network graphs for the COVID-19 epidemic through a visualization technique based on individual reports of epidemiological data. We proposed an analysis strategy of the transmission network with the epidemiological data in Tianjin and Chengdu. The transmission networks showed different transmission characteristics. In Tianjin, an imported case of COVID-19 can produce an average of 2.9 secondary infections and ultimately produce as many as 4 generations of infections, with a maximum of 6 cases being generated before the imported case is identified. In Chengdu, 45 noninformative cases and 24 cases with vague exposure information made accurate information about the transmission network difficult to provide. The proposed analysis framework of visualized transmission networks can trace the transmission source and contacts, assess the current situation of transmission and prevention, and provide evidence for the global response and control of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Potent sialic acid inhibitors that target influenza A virus hemagglutinin
Authors: Chang Yu-Jen , Yeh Cheng-Yun , Cheng Ju-Chien , Huang Yu-Qi , Hsu Kai-Cheng , Lin Yu-Feng , Lu Chih-Hao
Published: April 2021

Eradicating influenza A virus (IAV) is difficult, due to its genetic drift and reassortment ability. As the infectious cycle is initiated by the influenza glycoprotein, hemagglutinin (HA), which mediates the binding of virions to terminal sialic acids moieties, HA is a tempting target of anti-influenza inhibitors. However, the complexity of the HA structure has prevented delineation of the structural characterization of the HA protein–ligand complex. Our computational strategy efficiently analyzed > 200,000 records of compounds held in the United States National Cancer Institute (NCI) database and identified potential HA inhibitors, by modeling the sialic acid (SA) receptor binding site (RBS) for the HA structure. Our modeling revealed that compound NSC85561 showed significant antiviral activity against the IAV H1N1 strain with EC50 values ranging from 2.31 to 2.53 µM and negligible cytotoxicity (CC50 > 700 µM). Using the NSC85561 compound as the template to generate 12 derivatives, robust bioassay results revealed the strongest antiviral efficacies with NSC47715 and NSC7223. Virtual screening clearly identified three SA receptor binding site inhibitors that were successfully validated in experimental data. Thus, our computational strategy has identified SA receptor binding site inhibitors against HA that show IAV-associated antiviral activity.
Metabolomics and transcriptomics to decipher molecular mechanisms underlying ectomycorrhizal root colonization of an oak tree
Authors: Sebastiana M. , Gargallo-Garriga A. , Sardans J. , Pérez-Trujillo M. , Monteiro F. , Figueiredo A. , Maia M. , Nascimento R. , Silva M. Sousa , Ferreira A. N. , Cordeiro C. , Marques A. P. , Sousa L. , Malhó R. , Peñuelas J.
Published: April 2021

Mycorrhizas are known to have a positive impact on plant growth and ability to resist major biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the metabolic alterations underlying mycorrhizal symbiosis are still understudied. By using metabolomics and transcriptomics approaches, cork oak roots colonized by the ectomycorrhizal fungusPisolithus tinctoriuswere compared with non-colonized roots. Results show that compounds putatively corresponding to carbohydrates, organic acids, tannins, long-chain fatty acids and monoacylglycerols, were depleted in ectomycorrhizal cork oak colonized roots. Conversely, non-proteogenic amino acids, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and several putative defense-related compounds, including oxylipin-family compounds, terpenoids and B6 vitamers were induced in mycorrhizal roots. Transcriptomic analysis suggests the involvement of GABA in ectomycorrhizal symbiosis through increased synthesis and inhibition of degradation in mycorrhizal roots. Results from this global metabolomics analysis suggest decreases in root metabolites which are common components of exudates, and in compounds related to root external protective layers which could facilitate plant-fungal contact and enhance symbiosis. Root metabolic pathways involved in defense against stress were induced in ectomycorrhizal roots that could be involved in a plant mechanism to avoid uncontrolled growth of the fungal symbiont in the root apoplast. Several of the identified symbiosis-specific metabolites, such as GABA, may help to understand how ectomycorrhizal fungi such asP. tinctoriusbenefit their host plants.
Pre-existing depression in patients with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Park Jangho , Park Sangwoo , Kim Yong-Giun , Ann Soe Hee , Park Hyun Woo , Suh Jon , Roh Jae-Hyung , Cho Young-Rak , Han Seungbong , Park Gyung-Min
Published: April 2021

The impact of pre-existing depression on mortality in individuals with established coronary artery disease (CAD) remains unclear. We evaluate the clinical implications of pre-existing depression in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Based on National Health Insurance claims data in Korea, patients without a known history of CAD who underwent PCI between 2013 and 2017 were enrolled. The study population was divided into patients with angina (n = 50,256) or acute myocardial infarction (AMI; n = 40,049). The primary endpoint, defined as all-cause death, was compared between the non-depression and depression groups using propensity score matching analysis. After propensity score matching, there were 4262 and 2346 matched pairs of patients with angina and AMI, respectively. During the follow-up period, there was no significant difference in the incidence of all-cause death in the angina (hazard ratio [HR] of depression, 1.013; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.893–1.151) and AMI (HR, 0.991; 95% CI 0.865–1.136) groups. However, angina patients less than 65 years of age with depression had higher all-cause mortality (HR, 1.769; 95% CI 1.240–2.525). In Korean patients undergoing PCI, pre-existing depression is not associated with poorer clinical outcomes. However, in younger patients with angina, depression is associated with higher all-cause mortality.
Investigation of random telegraph signal in two junction layouts of proton irradiated CMOS SPADs
Authors: Capua F. Di , Campajola M. , Fiore D. , Gasparini L. , Sarnelli E. , Aloisio A.
Published: April 2021

This paper focuses on the understanding of the Random Telegraph Signal (RTS) in Single-Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPAD). We studied the RTS of two different SPAD layouts, designed and implemented in a 150-nm CMOS process, after proton irradiation. The two structures are characterized by different junction types: the first structure is constituted by a P+/Nwell junction, while the second is formed by a Pwell/Niso junction. RTS occurrence has been measured in about one thousand SPAD pixels and the differences addressed in two layouts are motivated and discussed. Hypotheses on the RTS origin are drawn by analyzing the RTS time constants and the RTS occurrence evolution as a function of the annealing temperature.
Characterization of a Bowman–Birk type trypsin inhibitor purified from seeds of Solanum surattense
Authors: Herwade Abhijeet P. , Kasar Sainath S. , Rane Niraj R. , Ahmed Shadab , Maras Jaswinder Singh , Pawar Pankaj K.
Published: April 2021

A Bowman–Birk type trypsin inhibitor protein (SSTI) from seeds of the medicinal plant Solanum surattense was isolated, purified and characterized. SSTI showed a single band on SDS-PAGE corresponding to 11.4 kDa molecular weight. It is a glycoprotein (2.8% glycosylation) that differentially interacted with trypsin and chymotrypsin in a concentration-dependent manner. Its peptide sequence is similar to other Bowman–Birk type protease inhibitors found in Glycine max and Phaseolus acutifolius. The inhibitory activity was stable over a wide range of pH (1–10) and temperatures (10–100° C). Far-UV Circular Dichroism (CD) studies showed that SSTI contains β sheets (~ 23%) and α helix (~ 6%) and demonstrated structural stability at wide pH and high temperature. The kinetic analysis revealed a noncompetitive (mixed) type nature of SSTI and low inhibitor constant (Ki) values (16.6 × 10−8 M) suggested strong inhibitory activity. Isothermal titration calorimetric analysis revealed its high affinity towards trypsin with dissociation constant (Kd) 2.28 µM.
RANDGAN: Randomized generative adversarial network for detection of COVID-19 in chest X-ray
Authors: Motamed Saman , Rogalla Patrik , Khalvati Farzad
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 spread across the globe at an immense rate and has left healthcare systems incapacitated to diagnose and test patients at the needed rate. Studies have shown promising results for detection of COVID-19 from viral bacterial pneumonia in chest X-rays. Automation of COVID-19 testing using medical images can speed up the testing process of patients where health care systems lack sufficient numbers of the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction tests. Supervised deep learning models such as convolutional neural networks need enough labeled data for all classes to correctly learn the task of detection. Gathering labeled data is a cumbersome task and requires time and resources which could further strain health care systems and radiologists at the early stages of a pandemic such as COVID-19. In this study, we propose a randomized generative adversarial network (RANDGAN) that detects images of an unknown class (COVID-19) from known and labelled classes (Normal and Viral Pneumonia) without the need for labels and training data from the unknown class of images (COVID-19). We used the largest publicly available COVID-19 chest X-ray dataset, COVIDx, which is comprised of Normal, Pneumonia, and COVID-19 images from multiple public databases. In this work, we use transfer learning to segment the lungs in the COVIDx dataset. Next, we show why segmentation of the region of interest (lungs) is vital to correctly learn the task of classification, specifically in datasets that contain images from different resources as it is the case for the COVIDx dataset. Finally, we show improved results in detection of COVID-19 cases using our generative model (RANDGAN) compared to conventional generative adversarial networks for anomaly detection in medical images, improving the area under the ROC curve from 0.71 to 0.77.
Evolving in islands of mud: old and structured hidden diversity in an endemic freshwater crayfish from the Chilean hotspot
Authors: Victoriano Pedro F. , D’Elía Guillermo
Published: April 2021

Parastacus is a genus of South American freshwater crayfishes disjunctively distributed in southern Chile, Northern Argentina, Uruguay and Southeastern Brazil. Parastacus pugnax is a Chilean endemic distributed along 700 km of latitude in central-southern Chile from the Pacific coast to the Andean piedmont, which is intensively captured for consumption for local communities. Considering the habitat (wet meadows) and natural history (primary burrower, non-migrant) of the species, we tested a hypothesis of highly structured genetic diversity using mtDNA of 465 specimens gathered at 56 localities across the species range. The crown age of P. pugnax was estimated at 38 Ma, predating the main Andean uplift. The genetic variation of P. pugnax is large and geographically structured. In some cases, genetic groups do not match basin limits, suggesting a previous to current dynamic of basin evolution. The uncovered intraspecific main lineages have different demographic histories. A latitudinal cline in past effective population size reduction suggests environmental singularities with a glacial effect in the southern populations. We suggest adding morphologic and more genetic data in order to assess species limits. Our results contribute to improve future conservation actions for this taxon, providing basic information to delimit conservation units.
Enhancing thermoelectric properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes using halide compounds at room temperature and above
Authors: Kumanek Bogumiła , Stando Grzegorz , Stando Paweł , Matuszek Karolina , Milowska Karolina Z. , Krzywiecki Maciej , Gryglas-Borysiewicz Marta , Ogorzałek Zuzanna , Payne Mike C. , MacFarlane Douglas , Janas Dawid
Published: April 2021

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are materials with exceptional electrical, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties. Ever since it was demonstrated that they also possess interesting thermoelectric properties, they have been considered a promising solution for thermal energy harvesting. In this study, we present a simple method to enhance their performance. For this purpose, thin films obtained from high-quality single-walled CNTs (SWCNTs) were doped with a spectrum of inorganic and organic halide compounds. We studied how incorporating various halide species affects the electrical conductivity, the Seebeck coefficient, and the Power Factor. Since thermoelectric devices operate under non-ambient conditions, we also evaluated these materials' performance at elevated temperatures. Our research shows that appropriate dopant selection can result in almost fivefold improvement to the Power Factor compared to the pristine material. We also demonstrate that the chemical potential of the starting CNT network determines its properties, which is important for deciphering the true impact of chemical and physical functionalization of such ensembles.
The emerging plasma biomarker Dickkopf-3 (DKK3) and its association with renal and cardiovascular disease in the general population
Authors: Piek Arnold , Smit Leonie , Suthahar Navin , Bakker Stephan J. L. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Silljé Herman H. W.
Published: April 2021

Dickkopf-3 (DKK3) is an emerging biomarker for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Herein, baseline DKK3 plasma levels were measured in 8420 subjects from the Prevention of Renal and Vascular ENd-stage Disease (PREVEND) cohort, a large general population cohort, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Associations with clinical variables and outcomes were analysed. Median DKK3 level was 32.8 ng/ml (28.0–39.0). In multivariable linear regression analysis, the strongest correlates for plasma DKK3 were age, body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). At baseline, 564 (6.7%) subjects had CVD (defined as a myocardial infarction and/or cerebrovascular accident) and 1361 (16.2%) subjects had CKD (defined as eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 and/or urinary albumin excretion (UAE) > 30 mg/24 h). Of subjects with known CVD and CKD follow-up status (respectively 7828 and 5548), 669 (8.5%) developed CVD and 951 (17.1%) developed CKD (median follow-up respectively 12.5 and 10.2 years). Crude logistic regression analysis revealed that DKK3 levels were associated with prevalent CVD (Odds ratio: 2.14 [1.76–2.61] per DKK3 doubling, P < 0.001) and CKD (Odds ratio: 1.84 [1.59–2.13] per DKK3 doubling, P < 0.001). In crude Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, higher DKK3 levels were associated with higher risk for new-onset CVD (Hazard ratio: 1.47 [1.13–1.91] per DKK3 doubling, P = 0.004) and CKD (Hazard ratio: 1.45, [1.25–1.69] per DKK3 doubling, P < 0.001). However, these associations remained no longer significant after correction for common clinical variables and risk factors, though independently predicted for new-onset CKD in a subgroup of subjects with the lowest UAE values. Together, DKK3 plasma levels are associated with cardiovascular risk factors, but are generally not independently associated with prevalent and new-onset CVD and CKD and only predicted for new-onset CKD in those subjects with the lowest UAE values.
First in situ 3D visualization of the human cardiac conduction system and its transformation associated with heart contour and inclination
Authors: Kawashima Tomokazu , Sato Fumi
Published: April 2021

Current advanced imaging modalities with applied tracing and processing techniques provide excellent visualization of almost all human internal structures in situ; however, the actual 3D internal arrangement of the human cardiac conduction system (CCS) is still unknown. This study is the first to document the successful 3D visualization of the CCS from the sinus node to the bundle branches within the human body, based on our specialized physical micro-dissection and its CT imaging. The 3D CCS transformation by cardiac inclination changes from the standing to the lying position is also provided. Both actual dissection and its CT image-based simulation identified that when the cardiac inclination changed from standing to lying, the sinus node shifted from the dorso-superior to the right outer position and the atrioventricular conduction axis changed from a vertical to a leftward horizontal position. In situ localization of the human CCS provides accurate anatomical localization with morphometric data, and it indicates the useful correlation between heart inclination and CCS rotation axes for predicting the variable and invisible human CCS in the living body. Advances in future imaging modalities and methodology are essential for further accurate in situ 3D CCS visualization.
Overexpression of the transcribed ultraconserved region Uc.138 accelerates colon cancer progression
Authors: Kuwano Yuki , Nishida Kensei , Rokutan Kazuhito
Published: April 2021

Ultraconserved regions (UCRs) are 481 genomic sequences with 100% identity across humans, rats, and mice. Increasing evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs transcribed from UCRs are involved in various diseases, especially cancers. The human transformer 2β gene (TRA2B) encodes a UCR (uc.138) that spans exon 2 and its neighboring introns. TRA2B4 RNA is the only transcript that contains the whole exon 2 among five spliced TRA2B RNA variants (TRA2B1-5). TRA2B4 is upregulated in colon cancer cell lines, although it is not translated to Tra2β protein because of its nuclear retention. Nevertheless, the clinical significance and biological functions of uc.138 in colon cancer cells remain unclear. In this study, RNA in situ hybridization showed that TRA2B4 was predominantly overexpressed in the nucleus of colon adenocarcinoma and adenoma. Overexpression of TRA2B4 in colon cancer HCT116 cells promoted cell proliferation by changing the expression of G2/M-related cell cycle regulators. Moreover, TRA2B4 increased migration and cell viability in a uc.138 sequence-dependent manner. TRA2B4 significantly enhanced tumorigenesis in vivo. Taken together, uc.138 encoded in TRA2B4 plays an oncogenic role in tumor progression and may become a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in colon cancer.
Identification and selection of reference genes for gene expression analysis by quantitative real-time PCR in Suaeda glauca’s response to salinity
Authors: Wang Meng , Ren Tingting , Marowa Prince , Du Haina , Xu Zongchang
Published: April 2021

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using a stable reference gene is widely used for gene expression research.Suaeda glaucaL. is a succulent halophyte and medicinal plant that is extensively used for phytoremediation and extraction of medicinal compounds. It thrives under high-salt conditions, which promote the accumulation of high-value secondary metabolites. However, a suitable reference gene has not been identified for gene expression standardization inS. glaucaunder saline conditions. Here, 10 candidate reference genes,ACT7,ACT11,CCD1,TUA5,UPL1,PP2A,DREB1D,V-H+-ATPase,MPK6, andPHT4;5, were selected fromS. glaucatranscriptome data. Five statistical algorithms (ΔCq, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder) were applied to determine the expression stabilities of these genes in 72 samples at different salt concentrations in different tissues.PP2AandTUA5were the most stable reference genes in different tissues and salt treatments, whereasDREB1Dwas the least stable. The two reference genes were sufficient to normalize gene expression across all sample sets. The suitability of identified reference genes was validated withMYBandAP2in germinating seeds ofS. glaucaexposed to different NaCl concentrations. Our study provides a foundational framework for standardizing qPCR analyses, enabling accurate gene expression profiling inS. glauca.
GLUT1 overexpression enhances glucose metabolism and promotes neonatal heart regeneration
Authors: Fajardo Viviana M. , Feng Iris , Chen Bao Ying , Perez-Ramirez Cesar A. , Shi Baochen , Clark Peter , Tian Rong , Lien Ching-Ling , Pellegrini Matteo , Christofk Heather , Nakano Haruko , Nakano Atsushi
Published: April 2021

The mammalian heart switches its main metabolic substrate from glucose to fatty acids shortly after birth. This metabolic switch coincides with the loss of regenerative capacity in the heart. However, it is unknown whether glucose metabolism regulates heart regeneration. Here, we report that glucose metabolism is a determinant of regenerative capacity in the neonatal mammalian heart. Cardiac-specific overexpression of Glut1, the embryonic form of constitutively active glucose transporter, resulted in an increase in glucose uptake and concomitant accumulation of glycogen storage in postnatal heart. Upon cryoinjury, Glut1 transgenic hearts showed higher regenerative capacity with less fibrosis than non-transgenic control hearts. Interestingly, flow cytometry analysis revealed two distinct populations of ventricular cardiomyocytes: Tnnt2-high and Tnnt2-low cardiomyocytes, the latter of which showed significantly higher mitotic activity in response to high intracellular glucose in Glut1 transgenic hearts. Metabolic profiling shows that Glut1-transgenic hearts have a significant increase in the glucose metabolites including nucleotides upon injury. Inhibition of the nucleotide biosynthesis abrogated the regenerative advantage of high intra-cardiomyocyte glucose level, suggesting that the glucose enhances the cardiomyocyte regeneration through the supply of nucleotides. Our data suggest that the increase in glucose metabolism promotes cardiac regeneration in neonatal mouse heart.
Optimal allogeneic islet dose for transplantation in insulin-dependent diabetic Macaca fascicularis monkeys
Authors: Kim Geun Soo , Cho Chan Woo , Lee Jong Hyun , Shin Du Yeon , Lee Han Sin , Lee Kyo Won , Kwon Yeongbeen , Kim Jae Sung , Yang Heung-Mo , Kim Sung Joo , Park Jae Berm
Published: April 2021

Many groups are working to improve the results of clinical allogeneic islet transplantation in a primate model. However, few studies have focused on the optimal islet dose for achieving normal glycemia without exogenous insulin after transplantation in primate models or on the relationship between rejection and islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) expression. We evaluated the dose (10,000, 20,000, and > 25,000 islet equivalents (IEQ)/kg) needed to achieve normal glycemia without exogenous insulin after transplantation using eleven cynomolgus monkeys, and we analyzed the characteristics exhibited in the islets after transplantation. 10,000 IEQ/kg (N = 2) failed to control blood glucose level, despite injection with the highest dose of exogenous insulin, and 20,000 IEQ/kg group (N = 5) achieved unstable control, with a high insulin requirement. However, 25,000 IEQ/kg (N = 4) achieved normal glycemia without exogenous insulin and maintained it for more than 60 days. Immunohistochemistry results from staining islets found in liver biopsies indicated that as the number of transplanted islets decreased, the amount of IAPP accumulation within the islets increased, which accelerated CD3+ T cell infiltration. In conclusion, the optimal transplantation dose for achieving a normal glycemia without exogenous insulin in our cynomolgus monkey model was > 25,000 IEQ/kg, and the accumulation of IAPP early after transplantation, which depends on the transplanted islet dose, can be considered one factor in rejection.
Effects of imperatorin on apoptosis and synaptic plasticity in vascular dementia rats
Authors: Huang Ying , Liao Xiangping , Wang Huaiwei , Luo Jianghong , Zhong Shanquan , Zhang Ziliang , zhang Fang , Chen Jianping , Xie Fuhua
Published: April 2021

In view of the complicated pathophysiological process of vascular dementia (VD), drugs for the clinical treatment of VD mainly target related risk factors, while drugs with excellent efficacy in cognitive function are still relatively lacking. Imperatorin (IMP), an active constituent extracted from angelica dahuricae and notopterygium Notopterygii, which has anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, anticoagulant, block calcium channel, anticonvulsant, and anti oxygen free radical injury properties. Therefore,the present study examined its effects on VD rats and the underlying molecular mechanisms, in order to provide promising therapeutic methods. VD was established by modified ligation of perpetual two-vessel occlusion (2VO). After 2VO surgery, IMP (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg) was administered by intraperitoneal injection for 12 consecutive weeks to evaluate therapeutic effects. Cognitive function was verified by the Morris water maze. The neuronal morphological changes were examined via Hematoxylin–Eosin staining. Real-Time PCR and Western blot were used for detecting pro- and antiapoptotic biomarkers, and the hippocampus synaptic damage was examined by Transmission electron microscope. We revealed that 2VO-induced cognitive impairment, hippocampus CA1 neuron damage, apoptosis and synaptic damage. IMP-treatment significantly improved 2VO-induced cognitive deficits and hippocampus neuron damage. Molecular analysis revealed that IMP inhibited apoptosis through the down regulation of Bax, Caspase-3 and upregulation of Bcl-2. Meanwhile, IMP-treatment markedly improved synaptic ultrastructure morphology, increased the SAZ length, PSD thickness and up-regulated PSD-95 expression. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that IMP was effective in the treatment of 2VO-induced VD via inhibiting apoptosis of hippocampus neurons and reducing the synaptic plasticity destroy.
Terrestrial sources of summer arctic moisture and the implication for arctic temperature patterns
Authors: Harrington Tyler S. , Zhu Jiang , Skinner Christopher B.
Published: April 2021

Sea ice melt and ocean heat accumulation in the Arctic are strongly influenced by the presence of atmospheric water vapor during summer. While the relationships between water vapor concentration, radiation, and surface energy fluxes in the Arctic are well understood, the sources of summer Arctic water vapor are not, inhibiting understanding and prediction of Arctic climate. Here we use the Community Earth System Model version 1.3 with online numerical water tracers to determine the geographic sources of summer Arctic water vapor. We find that on average the land surface contributes 56% of total summer Arctic vapor with 47% of that vapor coming from central and eastern Eurasia. Given the proximity to Siberia, near-surface temperatures in the Arctic between 90°E-150°E, including the Laptev Sea, are strongly influenced by concentrations of land surface-based vapor. Years with anomalously large concentrations of land surface-based vapor in the Arctic, and especially in the Laptev Sea region, often exhibit anomalous near-surface poleward flow from the high latitudes of Siberia, with links to internal variability such as the Arctic Dipole anomaly.
Supramolecular cocrystals built through redox-triggered ion intercalation in π-conjugated polymers
Authors: Yamashita Yu , Tsurumi Junto , Kurosawa Tadanori , Ueji Kan , Tsuneda Yukina , Kohno Shinya , Kempe Hideto , Kumagai Shohei , Okamoto Toshihiro , Takeya Jun , Watanabe Shun
Published: April 2021

Self-organization in π-conjugated polymers gives rise to a highly ordered lamellar structure, in which inter-chain stacking spontaneously forms two-dimensional conjugated sheets. This multi-layer stacked nature of semicrystalline polymers allows the inclusion of various functional molecules. In particular, redox-triggered ion-intercalation is an ideal system for molecular doping, for which extremely high charge carrier density has been achieved. Here, we conducted a detailed structural analysis and electron density simulation to pinpoint exactly where the guest dopants are located periodically in the void space in a polymer’s lamellae. Our findings are indicative of an intercalation compound of layered polymers and a guest intercalant. We show that a homogeneous cocrystal structure can be realized throughout the host polymer medium, which is proved by the observation of coherent carrier transport. The intercalation cocrystal nature gives the best achievable doping level in semicrystalline polymers and excellent environmental stability. These findings should open up possibilities for tuning the collective dynamics of functional molecules through intercalation phenomena.
Bioinspired self-degradable hydrogels towards wound sealing
Authors: Cao Qingchen , Sun Guofei , Wang Xing , Yang Fei , Zhang Licheng , Wu Decheng
Published: April 2021

A self-degradable hydrogel was developed as a medical adhesive for skin wounds. The rapid gelation and self-degradation of the hydrogel were achieved via the Michael addition and subsequent hydrolysis of the addition product.
Tetrathienoanthracene-functionalized conjugated microporous polymers as an efficient, metal-free visible-light solid organocatalyst for heterogeneous photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Chang-An , Zhang Jian-Ping , Nie Kun , Li Yan-Wei , Li Qun , Jiao Guo-Zheng , Chang Jian-Guo , Han Yin-Feng
Published: April 2021

Constructing tetrathienoanthracene-based CMPs as an efficient porous organo-photocatalyst for heterogeneous photocatalysis.
A rare 4-fold interpenetrated metal–organic framework constructed from an anionic indium-based node and a cationic dicopper linker
Authors: Pappuru Sreenath , Idrees Karam B. , Chen Zhijie , Shpasser Dina , Gazit Oz M.
Published: April 2021

We describe the synthesis and structure of a charged unique 4-fold interpenetrated MOF constructed from a new dicationic Robson-type dicarboxylate linker and a 4-connected In3+ node.
Copper(i) and silver(i) chemistry of vinyltrifluoroborate supported by a bis(pyrazolyl)methane ligand
Authors: Zacharias Adway O. , Mao James X. , Nam Kwangho , Dias H. V. Rasika
Published: April 2021

Copper and silver complexes of vinyltrifluoroborate have been isolated and characterized using bis(pyrazolyl)methane, acetonitrile and N-heterocyclic carbene supporting ligands. Computational analysis of these systems includes gold as well.
Recyclable heterogeneous gold(i)-catalyzed oxidative ring expansion of alkynyl quinols: a practical access to tropone and its analogues
Authors: Du Yingying , Huang Bin , Zeng Jiajun , Cai Mingzhong
Published: April 2021

A recyclable gold(i)-catalyzed oxidative ring expansion of alkynyl quinols for the construction of tropone and its analogues has been described.
Advances of α-activated cyclic isothiocyanate for the enantioselective construction of spirocycles
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Xingyue , Ye Xinyi , Wang Baomin , Bao Xiaoze , Wang Hong
Published: April 2021

α-Activated cyclic isothiocyanates featuring pharmacophores were efficient percusors for the enantioselective construction of intriguing spirocycles.
Rhodium(iii)-catalyzed switchable C–H acylmethylation and annulation of 2,2′-bipyridine derivatives with sulfoxonium ylides
Authors: Chen Mengjia , Meng Haifang , Yang Fang , Wang Yani , Chen Chen , Zhu Bolin
Published: April 2021

A novel protocol for Rh(iii)-catalyzed switchable C–H acylmethylation and annulation of 2,2′-bipyridine derivatives with sulfoxonium ylides was described.
Synthesis of new sulfated disaccharides for the modulation of TLR4-dependent inflammation
Authors: Naïtaleb Rachid , Denys Agnès , Allain Fabrice , Ausseil Jérôme , Toumieux Sylvestre , Kovensky José
Published: April 2021

Sulfated disaccharides for TLR4 binding.
2D ternary vanadium phosphorous chalcogenide with strong in-plane optical anisotropy
Authors: Su Jianwei , Shen Wanfu , Chen Jiazhen , Yang Sijie , Liu Jia , Feng Xin , Zhao Yinghe , Hu Chunguang , Li Huiqiao , Zhai Tianyou
Published: April 2021

2D ternary vanadium phosphorous chalcogenide V2P4S13, with novel porous structure, ultra-low crystallographic symmetry, and highly optical anisotropy, was introduced as a new member of 2D anisotropic materials.
A nickel nanoparticle engineered CoFe2O4/SiO2–NH2@carboxamide composite as a novel scaffold for the oxidation of sulfides and oxidative coupling of thiols
Authors: Zohrevandi Mina , Mozafari Roya , Ghadermazi Mohammad
Published: April 2021

The preparation of a Ni–carboxamide complex supported on CoFe2O4 for the oxidation of sulfides and oxidative coupling of thiols.
Sb2O3@Sb nanoparticles impregnated in N-doped carbon microcages for ultralong life and high-rate sodium ion batteries
Authors: Xu Anding , Huang Chuyun , Li Guilan , Zou Kaixiang , Sun Hao , Fu Lili , Ju Jiahao , Song Yang , Wu Songping , Xu Zhiguang , Yan Yurong
Published: April 2021

Herein, Sb2O3@Sb nanoparticles impregnated in N-doped carbon microcages with multi-scale structural nature, including hierarchical heterogeneous structure and heteroatom doping, could significantly enhance sodium/potassium storage capabilities.