bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THEGETTY HEXAMETERSAND GREEK TRAGEDY
Authors: Battezzato Luigi
Published: February 2022

The present article aims to show that several passages of Greek tragedy make use of language present in theGetty Hexameters, especially in contexts where incantations and protection of the city are mentioned. TheGetty Hexameterswere written on a lead tablet at the end of the fifth century BC in Sicily (Selinus or, more likely, Himera). The article argues that the composition of the text predates the lead tablet by several decades (section 2). It focuses on similarities in structure and language that involve Soph. fr. 535 (section 4), Aeschylus’Oresteia(section 5), Sophocles’Oedipus Tyrannus(section 6) and Euripides’Hecuba(section 8). It also suggests that Plato (section 7) and late antique poetry and prose (section 9) reuse some of the linguistic elements of the incantatory tradition of theGetty Hexameters.
TOWARDS THE INEVITABILITY OF NON-CLASSICAL PROBABILITY
Authors: MOLINARI GIACOMO
Published: February 2022

This paper generalises an argument for probabilism due to Lindley [9]. I extend the argument to a number of non-classical logical settings whose truth-values, seen here as ideal aims for belief, are in the set
$\{0,1\}$
, and where logical consequence
$\models $
is given the “no-drop” characterization. First I will show that, in each of these settings, an agent’s credence can only avoid accuracy-domination if its canonical transform is a (possibly non-classical) probability function. In other words, if an agent values accuracy as the fundamental epistemic virtue, it is a necessary requirement for rationality that her credence have some probabilistic structure. Then I show that for a certain class of reasonable measures of inaccuracy, having such a probabilistic structure is sufficient to avoid accuracy-domination in these non-classical settings.
„Mindful Parenting“ – Achtsamkeit in der Eltern-Kind-Beziehung
Authors: Bröning Sonja , Brandt Maja
Published: February 2022

Zusammenfassung. Elterliche Selbstregulation ist von großer Bedeutung für die Eltern-Kind-Interaktion und die Entwicklung des Kindes. Achtsamkeitsbasierte Interventionen zielen grundsätzlich auf die Verbesserung dieser Fähigkeit, indem sie neurokognitive Funktionen positiv beeinflussen. Das neuere Konzept des „Mindful Parenting“ betont vor allem Aspekte der Achtsamkeit in der Gestaltung der Eltern-Kind-Beziehung. In den letzten Jahren wurden erstmals achtsamkeitsbasierte Interventionen speziell für Eltern entwickelt und evaluiert. Die Ergebnisse sprechen für einen positiven Effekt solcher Programme auf Eltern und Kinder. Diese können aufgrund methodischer Einschränkungen zwar nur als vorläufig gelten, lassen aber weitere Forschungsbemühungen als lohnend erscheinen.
Rupture Heterogeneity and Directivity Effects in Back‐Projection Analysis
Authors: Li Bo , Wu Baoning , Bao Han , Oglesby David D. , Ghosh Abhijit , Gabriel Alice‐Agnes , Meng Lingsen , Chu Risheng
Published: February 2022

The back projection method is a tremendously powerful technique for investigating the time dependent earthquake source, but its physical interpretation is elusive. We investigate how earthquake rupture heterogeneity and directivity can affect back‐projection results (imaged location and beam power) using synthetic earthquake models. Rather than attempting to model the dynamics of any specific real earthquake, we use idealized kinematic rupture models, with constant or varying rupture velocity, peak slip rate, and fault‐local strike orientation along unilateral or bilateral rupturing faults, and perform back‐projection with the resultant synthetic seismograms. Our experiments show back‐projection can track only heterogeneous rupture processes; homogeneous rupture is not resolved in our synthetic experiments. The amplitude of beam power does not necessarily correlate with the amplitude of any specific rupture parameter (e.g., slip rate or rupture velocity) at the back‐projected location. Rather, it depends on the spatial heterogeneity around the back‐projected rupture front, and is affected by the rupture directivity. A shorter characteristic wavelength of the source heterogeneity or rupture directivity toward the array results in strong beam power in higher frequency. We derive an equation based on Doppler theory to relate the wavelength of heterogeneity with synthetic seismogram frequency. This theoretical relation can explain the frequency‐ and array‐dependent back‐projection results not only in our synthetic experiments but also to analyze the 2019 M7.6 bilaterally rupturing New Ireland earthquake. Our study provides a novel perspective to physically interpret back‐projection results and to retrieve information about earthquake rupture characteristics.
Coupled Poroelastic Modeling of Hydraulic Fracturing‐Induced Seismicity: Implications for Understanding the Post Shut‐In ML 2.9 Earthquake at the Preston New Road, UK
Authors: Cao Wenzhuo , Verdon James P. , Tao Ming
Published: February 2022

Post‐injection seismicity associated with hydraulic stimulation has posed great challenges to hydraulic fracturing operations. This work aims to identify the causal mechanism of the post shut‐in ML 2.9 earthquake in August 2019 at the Preston New Road, UK, amongst three plausible mechanisms, that is, the post shut‐in pore pressure diffusion, poroelastic stressing on a non‐overpressurized fault, and poroelastic stressing on an overpressurized fault. A 3D fully coupled poroelastic model that considers the poroelastic solid deformation, fluid flow in both porous rocks and fracture structures, and hydrofracturing‐induced pressure perturbations was developed to simulate the hydromechanical response of the shale reservoir formation to hydraulic fracturing operations at the site. Based on the model results, Coulomb stress changes and seismicity rate were further evaluated on the PNR‐2 fault responsible for the earthquake. Model results have shown that increased pore pressure plays a dominant role in triggering the fault slippage, although the poroelastic stress may have acted to promote the slippage. Amongst the three plausible mechanisms, the post shut‐in pore pressure diffusion is the most favored in terms of Coulomb stress change, seismicity rate, timing of fault slippage and rupture area. The coupled modeling results suggested that the occurrence of the post shut‐in ML 2.9 earthquake was a three‐staged process, involving first propagation of fracture tips that stimulated surrounding reservoir formations, then hydraulic connection with and subsequent pore pressure diffusion to the conductive PNR‐2 fault, and eventually fault activation primarily under the direct impact of increased pore pressure.
Evolution and Transformation of the North Icelandic Irminger Current Along the North Iceland Shelf
Authors: Semper Stefanie , Våge Kjetil , Pickart Robert S. , Jónsson Steingrímur , Valdimarsson Héðinn
Published: February 2022

The North Icelandic Irminger Current (NIIC) flowing northward through Denmark Strait is the main source of salt and heat to the north Iceland shelf. We quantify its along‐stream evolution using the first high‐resolution hydrographic/velocity survey north of Iceland that spans the entire shelf along with historical hydrographic measurements as well as data from satellites and surface drifters. The NIIC generally follows the shelf break. Portions of the flow recirculate near Denmark Strait and the Kolbeinsey Ridge. The current's volume transport diminishes northeast of Iceland before it merges with the Atlantic Water inflow east of Iceland. The hydrographic properties of the current are modified along its entire pathway, predominantly because of lateral mixing with cold, fresh offshore waters rather than air‐sea interaction. Progressing eastward, the NIIC cools and freshens by approximately 0.3°C and 0.02–0.03 g kg−1 per 100 km, respectively, in both summer and winter. Dense‐water formation on the shelf is limited, occurring only sporadically in the historical record. The hydrographic properties of this locally formed water match the lighter portion of the North Icelandic Jet (NIJ), which emerges northeast of Iceland and transports dense water toward Denmark Strait. In the region northeast of Iceland, the NIIC is prone to baroclinic instability. Enhanced eddy kinetic energy over the steep slope there suggests a dynamical link between eddies shed by the NIIC and the formation of the NIJ as previously hypothesized. Thus, while the NIIC rarely supplies the NIJ directly, it may be dynamically important for the overturning circulation in the Nordic Seas.
Regional Transport of PM2.5 and O3 Based on Complex Network Method and Chemical Transport Model in the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Xiaohao , Huang Ruizhu , Wu Jianbin , Xiao Yu , Hu Ming , Fu Qingyan , Duan Yusen , Chen Jianmin
Published: February 2022

Ground‐level ozone (O3) and atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution are the major challenges for continually improving air quality in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region of China. Understanding regional transport patterns of PM2.5 and O3 pollution is essential for the development of regional cooperative prevention strategies. This study shows the annual concentration of PM2.5 in the YRD decreased by 18.5% from 2015 to 2018, while the mean values of the daily maximum 8‐hr average (MDA8) O3 concentration from March to October increased by 16.3%. A complex network method is utilized to investigate the regional transport of PM2.5 and O3 in different grid cells (nodes). The source apportionment method within the chemistry transport model is applied to verify the reliability of the complex network method. Interregional and intraregional transport play an important role in both PM2.5 and O3 over the YRD. The northern part of the YRD contributes much more than other areas, while the central part of the YRD, especially the southern part of Jiangsu, is the largest contributor of O3 in the YRD in the summer, accounting for about 70%. Intraregional transport plays more of a major role in increasing PM2.5 pollution than O3 pollution. This study not only verifies the transport patterns of heavy pollution through the complex network method and traditional source apportionment technology, it also reveals that both methods provide great potential in understanding transport patterns and air pollution relationships, which are the solid foundation for emission mitigation in the YRD region.
Satellite Observed Sensitivity of Tropical Clouds and Moisture to Sea Surface Temperature on Various Time and Space Scales: 1. Focus on High Level Cloud Situations Over Ocean
Authors: Höjgård‐Olsen Erik , Chepfer Hélène , Brogniez Hélène
Published: February 2022

This study examines variations in high cloud properties and relative humidity (RH) with sea surface temperature (SST) over tropical oceans (30°N–30°S) using spaceborne lidar and microwave radiometer observations. The mean values over the tropics indicate that middle‐tropospheric RH increases, high cloud covers decrease and cloud altitudes rise with SST. These signatures are consistent with the hypotheses proposed in the literature. The analysis of this same data set but at the scale of local processes shows different behaviors for SSTs <302 K and SSTs >302 K. Between 299 and 302 K, middle‐tropospheric RH, opaque cloud cover, and cloud top altitude increase together with SST, while optically thin cloud cover decreases. Over SSTs >302 K, middle‐tropospheric RH, opaque cloud cover, and opaque cloud top altitude decrease with SST, while the cover of optically thin clouds increases. Interestingly, the altitude of high clouds (not the cloud top) increases monotonically with SST from 299 to 305 K on a range of space and time scales, and the altitude of optically thin clouds remains higher than that of opaque clouds. The observed relationships on different time and space scales are compared to simulations of a global atmospheric model. Despite systematic biases, the model reproduces the sensitivity of the middle‐tropospheric RH and cloud altitude to SST rather well but fails to reproduce the variations of the balance between high opaque cloud cover and high optically thin cloud cover.
Uncertainties in Evaluating Global Electric Circuit Interactions With Atmospheric Clouds and Aerosols, and Consequences for Radiation and Dynamics
Authors: Tinsley Brian A.
Published: February 2022

Observations and theory relevant to evaluating the importance of the effect of Ionosphere‐Earth current density, JZ, in the global electric circuit on cloud microphysics and cloud opacity at high latitudes, with presumed consequences for surface pressure, are reviewed and updated. The day‐to‐day input variations are less than 10% of their mean values, as are the reported cloud and pressure effects, but could be indicative of more important longer‐term effects, and of neglected processes in aerosol‐cloud interactions. There is consistent evidence for responses to both externally (solar‐wind) and internally (thunderstorm and shower‐cloud) generated changes in JZ and cloud opacity. The pressure correlations show non‐stationary behavior, with changes in phase relative to that of the solar wind input and JZ variations on interdecadal timescales. These might be due to the non‐stationary nature of the solar wind, and non‐stationary aerosol populations. For modeling the cloud effects there are considerable uncertainties in the size and charge distributions of aerosol particles, droplets, and ice particles. The cloud radiative coupling with periodic solar wind inputs may nudge internal tropospheric waves into phase coherence at times when the amplitude of the solar input and the duration of the input trains exceed minimum values.
Genetically encoded BRET-activated photodynamic therapy for the treatment of deep-seated tumors
Authors: Shramova Elena I. , Chumakov Stepan P. , Shipunova Victoria O. , Ryabova Anastasiya V. , Telegin Georgij B. , Kabashin Andrei V. , Deyev Sergey M. , Proshkina Galina M.
Published: February 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the most appealing photonic modalities for cancer treatment based on anticancer activity of light-induced photosensitizer-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS), but a limited depth of light penetration into tissues does not make possible the treatment of deep-seated neoplasms and thus complicates its widespread clinical adoption. Here, we introduce the concept of genetically encoded bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)-activated PDT, which combines an internal light source and a photosensitizer (PS) in a single-genetic construct, which can be delivered to tumors seated at virtually unlimited depth and then triggered by the injection of a substrate to initiate their treatment. To illustrate the concept, we engineered genetic NanoLuc-miniSOG BRET pair, combining NanoLuc luciferase flashlight and phototoxic flavoprotein miniSOG, which generates ROS under luciferase-substrate injection. We prove the concept feasibility in mice bearing NanoLuc-miniSOG expressing tumor, followed by its elimination under the luciferase-substrate administration. Then, we demonstrate a targeted delivery of NanoLuc-miniSOG gene, via tumor-specific lentiviral particles, into a tumor, followed by its successful elimination, with tumor-growth inhibition (TGI) coefficient exceeding 67%, which confirms a great therapeutic potential of the proposed concept. In conclusion, this study provides proof-of-concept for deep-tissue “photodynamic” therapy without external light source that can be considered as an alternative for traditional PDT.
Golgi phosphoprotein 3 induces autophagy and epithelial–mesenchymal transition to promote metastasis in colon cancer
Authors: Gong Li-Yun , Tu Ting , Zhu Jing , Hu Ao-Ping , Song Jun-Wei , Huang Jing-Qiang , Yang Yi , Zhu Zeyao , Chen Yu
Published: February 2022

In this study, we aimed to investigate whether and how Golgi phosphoprotein 3 (GOLPH3) facilitates colon cancer metastasis via the regulation of autophagy and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). The role GOLPH3 plays in colon cancer metastasis was analyzed using western blotting, immunohistochemistry, transwell, wound-healing, and zebrafish assays. Autophagy and EMT were assessed via RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis, mRFP-GFP-LC3 reporter assays, and their related markers. Significant associations were found between colon cancer clinical and pathological stages and poor prognosis. GOLPH3 facilitates colon cancer metastasis, both in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq analysis of GOLPH3-overexpressing and control cell models revealed that GOLPH3 enhances EMT and autophagy. Moreover, examination of autophagic, epithelial, and mesenchymal markers in GOLPH3-overexpressing, -silenced, and control cell lines revealed that GOLPH3 promotes EMT and autophagy. When autophagy was inhibited, GOLPH3-promoted metastasis and EMT were counteracted in vitro and in vivo. Using RNA-seq, PI3K/Akt signaling was identified as the key downstream pathway on which GOLPH3 acts. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that GOLPH3 stimulates autophagy and induces EMT via the suppression of the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) at Ser473. In summary, GOLPH3 induces autophagy and EMT, promoting metastasis in colon cancer. Beyond this, and in contrast to conventional perspectives, we discovered that GOLPH3 represses the phosphorylation of Akt at Ser473.
Is contact-line mobility a material parameter?
Authors: Ludwicki Jonathan M. , Kern Vanessa R. , McCraney Joshua , Bostwick Joshua B. , Daniel Susan , Steen Paul H.
Published: February 2022

Dynamic wetting phenomena are typically described by a constitutive law relating the dynamic contact angle θ to contact-line velocity UCL. The so-called Davis–Hocking model is noteworthy for its simplicity and relates θ to UCL through a contact-line mobility parameter M, which has historically been used as a fitting parameter for the particular solid–liquid–gas system. The recent experimental discovery of Xia & Steen (2018) has led to the first direct measurement of M for inertial-capillary motions. This opens up exciting possibilities for anticipating rapid wetting and dewetting behaviors, as M is believed to be a material parameter that can be measured in one context and successfully applied in another. Here, we investigate the extent to which M is a material parameter through a combined experimental and numerical study of binary sessile drop coalescence. Experiments are performed using water droplets on multiple surfaces with varying wetting properties (static contact angle and hysteresis) and compared with numerical simulations that employ the Davis–Hocking condition with the mobility M a fixed parameter, as measured by the cyclically dynamic contact angle goniometer, i.e. no fitting parameter. Side-view coalescence dynamics and time traces of the projected swept areas are used as metrics to compare experiments with numerical simulation. Our results show that the Davis–Hocking model with measured mobility parameter captures the essential coalescence dynamics and outperforms the widely used Kistler dynamic contact angle model in many cases. These observations provide insights in that the mobility is indeed a material parameter.
Effectiveness of mRNA-1273 against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and Delta variants
Authors: Tseng Hung Fu , Ackerson Bradley K. , Luo Yi , Sy Lina S. , Talarico Carla A. , Tian Yun , Bruxvoort Katia J. , Tubert Julia E. , Florea Ana , Ku Jennifer H. , Lee Gina S. , Choi Soon Kyu , Takhar Harpreet S. , Aragones Michael , Qian Lei
Published: February 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant is highly transmissible with potential immune escape. We conducted a test-negative case–control study to evaluate mRNA-1273 vaccine effectiveness (VE) against infection and hospitalization with Omicron or Delta. The large, diverse study population included 26,683 SARS-CoV-2 test-positive cases with variants determined by S gene target failure status (16% Delta and 84% Omicron). The two-dose VE against Omicron infection at 14–90 days was 44.0% (95% confidence interval, 35.1–51.6%) but declined quickly. The three-dose VE was 93.7% (92.2–94.9%) and 86.0% (78.1–91.1%) against Delta infection and 71.6% (69.7–73.4%) and 47.4% (40.5–53.5%) against Omicron infection at 14–60 days and >60 days, respectively. The three-dose VE was 29.4% (0.3–50.0%) against Omicron infection in immunocompromised individuals. The three-dose VE against hospitalization with Delta or Omicron was >99% across the entire study population. Our findings demonstrate high, durable three-dose VE against Delta infection but lower effectiveness against Omicron infection, particularly among immunocompromised people. However, three-dose VE of mRNA-1273 was high against hospitalization with Delta and Omicron variants.
Effect of MIND diet intervention on cognitive performance and brain structure in healthy obese women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Arjmand Golnaz , Abbas-Zadeh Mojtaba , Eftekhari Mohammad Hassan
Published: February 2022

Previous studies suggested adherence to recently developed Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) associated with cognitive performance. This study aimed to examine the effect of MIND dietary pattern on cognitive performance features and changes in brain structure in healthy obese women. As a total of 50 obese women were assessed for eligibility, we randomly allocated 40 participants with mean BMI 32 ± 4.31 kg/m2and mean age 48 ± 5.38 years to either calorie-restricted modified MIND diet or a calorie-restricted standard control diet. Change in cognitive performance was the primary outcome measured with a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. We also performed voxel-based morphometry as a secondary outcome to quantify the differences in brain structure. All of the measurements were administered at baseline and 3 months follow-up. Thirty-seven participants (MIND group = 22 and control group = 15) completed the study. The results found in the MIND diet group working memory + 1.37 (95% CI 0.79, 1.95), verbal recognition memory + 4.85 (95% CI 3.30, 6.40), and attention + 3.75 (95% CI 2.43, 5.07) improved more compared with the control group (ps < 0.05). Results of brain MRI consist of an increase in surface area of the inferior frontal gyrus in the MIND diet group. Furthermore, the results showed a decrease in the cerebellum-white matter and cerebellum-cortex in two groups of study. Still, the effect in the MIND group was greater than the control group. The study findings declare for the first time that the MIND diet intervention can reverse the destructive effects of obesity on cognition and brain structure, which could be strengthened by a modest calorie restriction.

Clinical trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04383704 (First registration date: 05/05/2020).
Evolutionary history and colonization patterns of the wing dimorphic grasshopper Dichroplus vittatus in two Argentinean biomes
Authors: Rosetti Natalia , Krohling Daniela , Remis Maria Isabel
Published: February 2022

Quaternary climate oscillations and modification of the environment by humans have played an important role in shaping species distribution and genetic structure of modern species. Here, population genetic parameters were inferred from the analysis of 168 individuals belonging to 11 populations of the South American grasshopper, Dichroplus vittatus, distributed in two Argentinean Biomes (Grassland and Savanna), by sequencing a 543 bp of the mitochondrial COI gene. Overall, we detected considerable haplotype diversity and low nucleotide diversity. AMOVA analyses showed a significant degree of differentiation among Biomes and between populations. Two major mitochondrial lineages can be distinguished. The haplogroup containing the most common haplotype split 17,000 years BP while the haplogroup including the second most common haplotype has a divergence date of about 11,700 years. Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) analyses showed that the palaeodemographic scenario that best fitted our data is consistent with a hypothesis of divergence from an ancestral population and subsequent admixture with Grassland-Savanna (South–North) direction. Our results suggest that populations located in both Biomes would derive from a single ancestral population that colonized the region after the Last Glacial Maximum and Grassland would have a more ancestral origin than Savanna. Further, our results emphasize the importance of human-mediated dispersal in the reconfiguration of genetic diversity of species with potential pest capacity.
Model based estimation of the SARS-CoV-2 immunization level in austria and consequences for herd immunity effects
Authors: Bicher Martin , Rippinger Claire , Schneckenreither Günter , Weibrecht Nadine , Urach Christoph , Zechmeister Melanie , Brunmeir Dominik , Huf Wolfgang , Popper Niki
Published: February 2022

Several systemic factors indicate that worldwide herd immunity against COVID-19 will probably not be achieved in 2021. On the one hand, vaccination programs are limited by availability of doses and on the other hand, the number of people already infected is still too low to have a disease preventing impact and new emerging variants of the virus seem to partially neglect developed antibodies from previous infections. Nevertheless, by February 2021 after one year of observing high numbers of reported COVID-19 cases in most European countries, we might expect that the immunization level should have an impact on the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Here we present an approach for estimating the immunization of the Austrian population and discuss potential consequences on herd immunity effects. To estimate immunization we use a calibrated agent-based simulation model that reproduces the actual COVID-19 pandemic in Austria. From the resulting synthetic individual-based data we can extract the number of immunized persons. We then extrapolate the progression of the epidemic by varying the obtained level of immunization in simulations of an hypothetical uncontrolled epidemic wave indicating potential effects on the effective reproduction number. We compared our theoretical findings with results derived from a classic differential equation SIR-model. As of February 2021, $$14.7\%$$

14.7
%

of the Austrian population has been affected by a SARS-CoV-2 infection which causes a $$9\%$$

9
%

reduction of the effective reproduction number and a $$24.7\%$$

24.7
%

reduction of the prevalence peak compared to a fully susceptible population. This estimation is now recomputed on a regular basis to publish model based analysis of immunization level in Austria also including the fast growing effects of vaccination programs. This provides substantial information for decision makers to evaluate the necessity of non pharmaceutical intervention measures based on the estimated impact of natural and vaccinated immunization.
Ultrasounds induce blood–brain barrier opening across a sonolucent polyolefin plate in an in vitro isolated brain preparation
Authors: Librizzi Laura , Uva Laura , Raspagliesi Luca , Gionso Matteo , Regondi Maria Cristina , Durando Giovanni , DiMeco Francesco , de Curtis Marco , Prada Francesco
Published: February 2022

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) represents a major obstacle to the delivery of drugs to the central nervous system. The combined use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound waves and intravascular microbubbles (MB) represents a promising solution to this issue, allowing reversible disruption of the barrier. In this study, we evaluate the feasibility of BBB opening through a biocompatible, polyolefin-based plate in an in vitro whole brain model. Twelve in vitro guinea pig brains were employed; brains were insonated using a planar transducer with or without interposing the polyolefin plate during arterial infusion of MB. Circulating MBs were visualized with an ultrasonographic device with a linear probe. BBB permeabilization was assessed by quantifying at confocal microscopy the extravasation of FITC-albumin perfused after each treatment. US-treated brains displayed BBB permeabilization exclusively in the volume under the US beam; no significant differences were observed between brains insonated with or without the polyolefin plate. Control brains not perfused with MB did not show signs of FITC-albumin extravasation. Our preclinical study suggests that polyolefin cranial plate could be implanted as a skull replacement to maintain craniotomic windows and perform post-surgical repeated BBB opening with ultrasound guidance to deliver therapeutic agents to the central nervous system.
Associations between potential inflammatory properties of the diet and frequency, duration, and severity of migraine headaches: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ghoreishy Seyed Mojtaba , Askari Gholamreza , Mohammadi Hamed , Campbell Marilyn S. , Khorvash Fariborz , Arab Arman
Published: February 2022

Despite a large body of literature on the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and various chronic diseases, limited knowledge is available regarding the association between DII and migraine. Therefore, we assessed the relationship between the DII and migraine characteristics, including duration, frequency, and severity of migraine headaches, Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6), and serum levels of nitric oxide (NO). This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2019 to June 2020 among 262 patients (38 men and 224 women; 20–50 years). A 168-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was gathered to evaluate dietary intake, and subsequently, an energy-adjusted DII score was calculated. After controlling for potential confounders, an increase of 3.48 in headache frequency was observed when the DII score increased from − 4.04 to − 1.83 (β = 3.48; 95% CI 1.43, 5.54). In the crude model, headache duration tended to be inversely associated with DII in the subjects with the pro-inflammatory diet compared to those with the anti-inflammatory diet (β = − 0.22; 95% CI − 0.46, 0.02). After adjustment for confounders, those with the highest DII values were at a higher risk of severe headaches than those with the lowest values (OR = 2.25; 95% CI 1.17, 4.32). No other significant results were found in terms of the association between DII and HIT-6 or serum NO levels. We found evidence suggesting that higher adherence to a diet with anti-inflammatory properties was significantly and inversely related to headache frequency. Furthermore, our results suggest that the DII score is substantially related to migraine severity.
Origin of observed narrow bandgap of mica nanosheets
Authors: Wu Shunnian , Lee W. P. Cathie , Wu Ping
Published: February 2022

Mica nanosheets possess peculiar feature of narrowed bandgap with the decrease of thickness but a conclusive theoretical understanding of the narrowing mechanisms is still under development. In this report, first-principles calculations were carried out to investigate the electronic band structure of mica nanosheets with the deposition of K2CO3. Bulk mica shows an indirect bandgap of 4.90 eV. Mica nanosheets show similar electronic structures to bulk mica with a gradually increased bandgap of 4.44 eV, 4.52 eV and 4.67 eV for 1-layer, 2-layers and 3-layers nanosheets, respectively, which is attributed to the lattice relaxation. K2CO3 is found to have strong affinity towards mica nanosheets. The K2CO3 deposited mica nanosheets showed an increased bandgap with the increase of thickness, consistent with experimental observations. The calculated bandgap of K2CO3 deposited mica for 2-layers and 3-layers nanosheets are 2.60 eV and 2.75 eV, respectively, which are comparable with the corresponding experimental values of 2.5 eV and 3.0 eV. Our theoretical findings support the experimental evidence of surface contamination of mica by K2CO3, and provide new insight into the structure and properties of 2D mica.
A descriptive report on short QT interval in Kherameh branch of the PERSIAN cohort study
Authors: Nikoo Mohammad Hossein , Heiran Alireza , Mashayekh Fardin , Rezaianzadeh Abbas , Shiravani Abbas , Azadian Fatemeh
Published: February 2022

Short QT-interval is a condition that bear the suspicion of short QT syndrome (SQTS). SQTS is known to increase risk of life-threatening arrythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Due to the insufficient population-based studies and use of various QT cut-off values, it accounts for as an undiagnosed condition. In this study, we sought for prevalence of short QT interval in Kherameh cohort study, one of the southern branches of the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran (PERSIAN). Data of 4363 adult subjects were analyzed from phase 1 of the cohort during 2014–2017. The corrected QT (QTc) intervals were calculated and electrocardiograms (ECGs) with QTc of less than 370 ms (msec) were reanalyzed for bradycardia, early repolarization, atrial fibrillation (AF), arrhythmias, and other electrical conduction abnormalities. Seventy-two subjects (1.65%) had a QTc of less than 370 ms (mean QTc of 360.72 ± 11.72). A male predominance and a lower mean heart rate observed in SQTS susceptible group (M/F of 1/0.26 vs. 1/1.145, p-value < 0.0001; 58.389 ± 9.787 vs. 70.899 ± 11.775; p-value < 0.0001) compare to the subjects with normal QTc. At least, 2 subjects with high-probability SQTS and 3 with intermediate-probability SQTS identified. The frequency of AF, syncope, bradycardia, early repolarization, low voltage ECG, and infantile SCD in first- and second-degree relatives were 16.67, 4.17, 33.33, 11.11, 11.11, 11.11%, respectively. The prevalence of short QT interval in our cohort was in line with previous studies. The incidence of cardiac symptoms/events, familial SCDs and ECG derived specific findings were high amongst SQTS-susceptible index persons. However, these variables could not predict the symptomatic subjects, which emphasizes gene studies and family screening.
A novel hepadnavirus in domestic dogs
Authors: Diakoudi Georgia , Capozza Paolo , Lanave Gianvito , Pellegrini Francesco , Di Martino Barbara , Elia Gabriella , Decaro Nicola , Camero Michele , Ghergo Paola , Stasi Fabio , Cavalli Alessandra , Tempesta Maria , Barrs Vanessa R. , Beatty Julia , Bányai Krisztián , Catella Cristiana , Lucente Maria S. , Buonavoglia Alessio , Fusco Giovanna , Martella Vito
Published: February 2022

Hepadnaviruses have been identified in several animal species. The hepadnavirus prototype, human hepatitis B virus (HBV), is a major public health problem associated with chronic liver diseases and hepatocellular carcinoma. Recently, a novel hepadnavirus, similar to HBV, was identified in domestic cats. Since several pathogens can be shared between cats and dogs, we hypothesized that dogs could also harbor hepadnaviruses and we tested a collection of canine sera with multiple molecular strategies. Overall, hepadnavirus DNA was identified in 6.3% (40/635) of canine serum samples, although the viral load in positive sera was low (geometric mean of 2.70 × 102genome copies per mL, range min 1.36 × 102—max 4.03 × 104genome copies per mL). On genome sequencing, the canine hepadnaviruses revealed high nucleotide identity (about 98%) and similar organization to the domestic cat hepadnavirus. Altered hepatic markers were found in hepadnavirus-positive dogs, although the role of hepadnavirus in canine health remains to be elucidated.
Aversive view memories and risk perception in navigating ants
Authors: Freas Cody A. , Wystrach Antoine , Schwarz Sebastian , Spetch Marcia L.
Published: February 2022

Many ants establish foraging routes through learning views of the visual panorama. Route models have focused primarily on attractive view use, which experienced foragers orient towards to return to known sites. However, aversive views have recently been uncovered as a key component of route learning. Here, Cataglyphis velox rapidly learned aversive views, when associated with a negative outcome, a period of captivity in vegetation, triggering increases in hesitation behavior. These memories were based on the accumulation of experiences over multiple trips with each new experience regulating forager hesitancy. Foragers were also sensitive to captivity time differences, suggesting they possess some mechanism to quantify duration. Finally, we analyzed foragers' perception of risky (i.e. variable) versus stable aversive outcomes by associating two sites along the route with distinct captivity schedules, a fixed or variable duration, with the same mean across training. Foragers exhibited fewer hesitations in response to risky outcomes compared to fixed ones, indicating they perceived risky outcomes as less severe. Results align with a logarithmic relationship between captivity duration and hesitations, suggesting that aversive stimulus perception is a logarithm of its actual value. We discuss how aversive view learning could be executed within the mushroom bodies circuitry following a prediction error rule.
Casimir forces out of thermal equilibrium near a superconducting transition
Authors: Castillo-López S. G. , Esquivel-Sirvent R. , Pirruccio G. , Villarreal C.
Published: February 2022

We present a comprehensive analysis of the out-of-equilibrium Casimir pressure between two high-$$T_c$$

T
c

superconducting plates, each kept at a different temperature. Two interaction regimes can be distinguished. While the zero-point energy dominates in the near field, thermal effects become important at large interplate separations causing a drop in the force’s magnitude compared with the usual thermal-equilibrium case. Our detailed calculations highlight the competing role played by propagating and evanescent modes. Moreover, as one of the plates undergoes the superconducting transition, we predict an abrupt change in the force for any plate distance, which has not been previously observed in other systems. The sensitivity of the dielectric function of the high-$$T_c$$

T
c

superconductors makes them ideal systems for a possible direct measurement of the out-of-equilibrium Casimir pressure.
Renal artery denervation prevents ventricular arrhythmias in long QT rabbit models
Authors: Ton An Nu-Khanh , Liu Shin-Huei , Lo Li-Wei , Khac Thien Chuong-Nguyen , Chou Yu-Hui , Cheng Wen-Han , Lin Wei-Lun , Peng Tzu-Yen , Lin Pin-Yi , Chang Shih-Lin , Chen Shih-Ann
Published: February 2022

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is commonly presented with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Renal artery denervation (RDN) is an alternative antiadrenergic treatment that attenuates sympathetic activity. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of RDN on preventing VAs in LQTS rabbits induced by drugs. The subtypes of LQTS were induced by infusion of HMR-1556 for LQTS type 1 (LQT1), erythromycin for LQTS type 2 (LQT2), and veratridine for LQTS type 3 (LQT3). Forty-four rabbits were randomized into the LQT1, LQT2, LQT3, LQT1-RDN, LQT2-RDN, and LQT3-RDN groups. All rabbits underwent cardiac electrophysiology studies. The QTc interval of the LQT2-RDN group was significantly shorter than those in the LQT2 group (650.08 ± 472.67 vs. 401.78 ± 42.91 ms, p = 0.011). The QTc interval of the LQT3-RDN group was significantly shorter than those in the LQT3 group (372.00 ± 22.41 vs. 335.70 ± 28.21 ms, p = 0.035). The VA inducibility in all subtypes of the LQT-RDN groups was significantly lower than those in the LQT-RDN groups, respectively (LQT1: 9.00 ± 3.30 vs. 47.44 ± 4.21%, p < 0.001; LQT2: 11.43 ± 6.37 vs. 45.38 ± 5.29%, p = 0.026; LQT3: 10.00 ± 6.32 vs. 32.40 ± 7.19%, p = 0.006). This study demonstrated the neuromodulation of RDN leading to electrical remodeling and reduced VA inducibility of the ventricular substrate in LQT models.
Physicochemical and biological analysis of river Yamuna at Palla station from 2009 to 2019
Authors: Joshi Pankaj , Chauhan Akshansha , Dua Piyush , Malik Sudheer , Liou Yuei-An
Published: February 2022

Yamuna is one of the main tributaries of the river Ganga and passes through Delhi, the national capital of India. In the last few years, it is considered one of the most polluted rivers of India. We carried out the analysis for the physiochemical and biological conditions of the river Yamuna based on measurements acquired at Palla station, Delhi during 2009–19. For our analysis, we considered various physicochemical and biological parameters (Dissolved Oxygen (DO) Saturation, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Alkalinity, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and Total Coliform. The water stats of river Yamuna at Palla station were matched with Water Standards of India, United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and World Health Organization (WHO). Maximum changes are observed in DO saturation and total coliform, while BOD and COD values are also seen higher than the upper limits. Total alkalinity rarely meets the minimum standards. TDS is found to be satisfactory as per the standard limit. The river quality falls under Class D or E (IS2296), Class III or IV (UNECE), and fails to fulfill WHO standards for water. After spending more than 130 million USD for the establishment of a large number of effluent treatment plants, sewage treatment plants, and common effluent treatment plants, increasing discharges of untreated sewage, partially treated industrial effluents and reduced discharge of freshwater from Hathnikund are causing deterioration in water quality and no major improvements are seen in water quality of river Yamuna.
Enhanced O-GlcNAc modification induced by the RAS/MAPK/CDK1 pathway is required for SOX2 protein expression and generation of cancer stem cells
Authors: Shimizu Masahiro , Shibuya Hiroshi , Tanaka Nobuyuki
Published: February 2022

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have tumour initiation, self-renewal, and long-term tumour repopulation properties, and it is postulated that differentiated somatic cells can be reprogrammed to CSCs by oncogenic signals. We previously showed that oncogenic HRASV12 conferred tumour initiation capacity in tumour suppressor p53-deficient (p53−/−) primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) through transcription factor NF-κB-mediated enhancement of glucose uptake; however, the underlying mechanisms of RAS oncogene-induced CSC reprogramming have not been elucidated. Here, we found that the expression of the reprogramming factor SOX2 was induced by HRASV12 in p53−/− MEFs. Moreover, gene knockout studies revealed that SOX2 is an essential factor for the generation of CSCs by HRASV12 in mouse and human fibroblasts. We demonstrated that HRASV12-induced cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) activity and subsequent enhancement of protein O-GlcNAcylation were required for SOX2 induction and CSC generation in these fibroblasts and cancer cell lines containing RAS mutations. Moreover, the CDK inhibitor dinaciclib and O-GlcNAcylation inhibitor OSMI1 reduced the number of CSCs derived from these cells. Taken together, our results reveal a signalling pathway and mechanism for CSC generation by oncogenic RAS and suggest the possibility that this signalling pathway is a therapeutic target for CSCs.
Sepsis downregulates aortic Notch signaling to produce vascular hyporeactivity in mice
Authors: Singh Vandana , Akash Raut , Chaudhary Gaurav , Singh Rajneesh , Choudhury Soumen , Shukla Amit , Prabhu Shyama N. , Gangwar Neeraj , Garg Satish K.
Published: February 2022

Inhibition of Notch signaling in macrophages is known to reduce inflammation, however, its role in regulating vascular hyporeactivity in sepsis is unknown. Thus we aimed to evaluate the effect of sepsis on vascular Notch signaling. Polymicrobial sepsis was induced by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in mice. mRNA expressions of Notch receptors (Notch1,3) and ligands (Jag1, Dll4), and downstream effector genes (Hey1, MLCK, MYPT1) were assessed by RT-qPCR. Protein level of activated Notch (NICD) was assessed by Western blot and immuno-histochemistry. Isometric tension in isolated aortic rings was measured by wire myography.CLP down-regulated aortic expression of Notch3, Jag1 and Dll4 as compared to control mice. Additionally, the protein level of NICD was found to be lesser in aortic tissue sections from CLP mice. Expression of Hey1 and MLCK were attenuated whereas MYPT1 expression was increased in septic mouse aorta. DAPT pretreatment did not improve CLP-induced vascular hyporeactivity to NA, CaCl2 and high K+ (80 mM), rather significantly attenuated the aortic response to these vasoconstrictors in control mice. Treatment with 1400 W reversed attenuated Notch3 (but not Jag1 and MLCK) expression in septic mouse aorta. In conclusion, sepsis significantly attenuated the Notch (especially Notch3) signaling in mouse aorta along with reduction in contractile gene expression and vasoconstriction response. Further, iNOS/NO pathway was involved in sepsis-induced down-regulation of Notch3 receptor. Thus systemic inhibition of Notch signaling during sepsis may have serious impact on sepsis-induced vascular hyporeactivity.
Increase water solubility of Centella asiatica extract by indigenous bioenhancers could improve oral bioavailability and disposition kinetics of triterpenoid glycosides in beagle dogs
Authors: Boonyarattanasoonthorn Tussapon , Kijtawornrat Anusak , Songvut Phanit , Nuengchamnong Nitra , Buranasudja Visarut , Khemawoot Phisit
Published: February 2022

A newly standardised extract ofCentellaasiatica(Centell-S) with better water solubility than the previous standardised extract ofC.asiatica(ECa 233) was developed, and pharmacokinetic profiles of bioactive triterpenoids were investigated in beagle dogs. The test substances were administered via intravenous or oral administration with single and multiple doses for 7 days. The concentrations of major bioactive triterpenoids, including madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid, in biological samples were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The dogs in this study showed good tolerability to all test substances, based on the physical appearance and blood chemistry 24 h after dosing. The major bioactive triterpenoids found in systemic blood circulation were madecassoside, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid; the concentration of these components ranged from 1 to 10,000 µg/L after intravenous administration of 1.0 mg/kg Centell-S. Oral administration of 10 and 20 mg/kg Centell-S generated approximately twofold higher plasma levels of both madecassoside and asiaticoside compared with equivalent doses of ECa 233. In addition, there was an accumulation of triterpenoid glycosides after multiple oral administrations of Centell-S for 7 days, while triterpenic acids showed little tendency for accumulation. Beagles had good tolerability to both standardised extracts ofC.asiatica, and showed a similar pattern of bioactive triterpenoids to humans. Centell-S increased oral bioavailability of major triterpenoid glycosides and can be further developed into a phytopharmaceutical product.
Prediction and molecular field view of drug resistance in HIV-1 protease mutants
Authors: Wang Baifan , He Yinwu , Wen Xin , Xi Zhen
Published: February 2022

Conquering the mutational drug resistance is a great challenge in anti-HIV drug development and therapy. Quantitatively predicting the mutational drug resistance in molecular level and elucidating the three dimensional structure-resistance relationships for anti-HIV drug targets will help to improve the understanding of the drug resistance mechanism and aid the design of resistance evading inhibitors. Here the MB-QSAR (Mutation-dependent Biomacromolecular Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship) method was employed to predict the molecular drug resistance of HIV-1 protease mutants towards six drugs, and to depict the structure resistance relationships in HIV-1 protease mutants. MB-QSAR models were constructed based on a published data set of Ki values for HIV-1 protease mutants against drugs. Reliable MB-QSAR models were achieved and these models display both well internal and external prediction abilities. Interpreting the MB-QSAR models supplied structural information related to the drug resistance as well as the guidance for the design of resistance evading drugs. This work showed that MB-QSAR method can be employed to predict the resistance of HIV-1 protease caused by polymorphic mutations, which offer a fast and accurate method for the prediction of other drug target within the context of 3D structures.