bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crustal Thinning From Orogen to Back‐Arc Basin: The Structure of the Pannonian Basin Region Revealed by P‐to‐S Converted Seismic Waves
Authors: Kalmár Dániel , Hetényi György , Balázs Attila , Bondár István ,   AlpArray Working Group
Published: June 2021

We present the results of P‐to‐S receiver function analysis to improve the 3D image of the sedimentary layer, the upper crust, and lower crust in the Pannonian Basin area. The Pannonian Basin hosts deep sedimentary depocentres superimposed on a complex basement structure and it is surrounded by mountain belts. We processed waveforms from 221 three‐component broadband seismological stations. As a result of the dense station coverage, we were able to achieve so far unprecedented spatial resolution in determining the velocity structure of the crust. We applied a three‐fold quality control process; the first two being applied to the observed waveforms and the third to the calculated radial receiver functions. This work is the first comprehensive receiver function study of the entire region. To prepare the inversions, we performed station‐wise H‐Vp/Vs grid search, as well as Common Conversion Point migration. Our main focus was then the S‐wave velocity structure of the area, which we determined by the Neighborhood Algorithm inversion method at each station, where data were sub‐divided into back‐azimuthal bundles based on similar Ps delay times. The 1D, nonlinear inversions provided the depth of the discontinuities, shear‐wave velocities and Vp/Vs ratios of each layer per bundle, and we calculated uncertainty values for each of these parameters. We then developed a 3D interpolation method based on natural neighbor interpolation to obtain the 3D crustal structure from the local inversion results. We present the sedimentary thickness map, the first Conrad depth map and an improved, detailed Moho map, as well as the first upper and lower crustal thickness maps obtained from receiver function analysis. The velocity jump across the Conrad discontinuity is estimated at less than 0.2 km/s over most of the investigated area. We also compare the new Moho map from our approach to simple grid search results and prior knowledge from other techniques. Our Moho depth map presents local variations in the investigated area: the crust‐mantle boundary is at 20–26 km beneath the sedimentary basins, while it is situated deeper below the Apuseni Mountains, Transdanubian and North Hungarian Ranges (28–33 km), and it is the deepest beneath the Eastern Alps and the Southern Carpathians (40–45 km). These values reflect well the Neogene evolution of the region, such as crustal thinning of the Pannonian Basin and orogenic thickening in the neighboring mountain belts.
A Bayesian Inference‐Based Empirical Model for Scintillation Indices for High‐Latitude
Authors: Meziane K. , Kashcheyev A. , Jayachandran P. T. , Hamza A. M.
Published: June 2021

Solar wind parameters, the solar radio flux index (F10.7), the Sun's declination and the SuperMAG Electrojet index are used to construct a Bayesian inference‐based empirical model for scintillation indices (S4 and σΦ) at high latitudes. For the present study, measurements from three Global Positioning System (GPS) L1 receivers located in the auroral zone, the cusp and in the polar cap are selected, respectively. The solar wind characteristics include the solar wind speed (VSW) and ram pressure (ρSW) as well as the Geocentric Solar Magnetospheric (GSM) By and the Bz components of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). Following a brief assessment on the independence of the variables (predictors), prior probabilities of occurrence in the case of a multinomial classification are constructed. Posterior‐probabilities are then deduced for any arbitrary set of predictors. We show that the model captures most variations seen in the measured indices whether they are associated or not with transient interplanetary events. Although the model tends to underestimate the actual phase index measurements, 95% of the validated events are predicted with an error less than 0.034 rad in σΦ. For the amplitude scintillation index, 5% of validated events have an error larger than 0.019.
Multistage Exhumation in the Catchment of the Anninghe River in the SE Tibetan Plateau: Insights From Both Detrital Thermochronology and Topographic Analysis
Authors: Wang Yizhou , Liu Chunru , Zheng Dewen , Zhang Huiping , Yu Jingxing , Pang Jianzhang , Li Chaopeng , Hao Yuqi
Published: June 2021

The roles of lower‐crustal flow and upper‐crustal shortening on the growth of the SE Tibetan Plateau remain under debate, which calls for a knowledge about regional exhumation history. We analyzed apatite fission track ages of modern sediments from both the east and west sub‐catchments along the Anninghe River, in the SE plateau. We obtained four age components, with peaks a bit younger in the east than in the west. Combing the asymmetric topography with higher relief in the east, we concluded a non‐uniform exhumation pattern. The components are at the Oligocene, late‐Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene, mostly consistent with the timing for changes in catchment‐wide erosion rates as indicated by the inverse erosion history. We concluded that, in addition to the late‐Miocene lower‐crustal flow and Oligocene upper‐crustal shortening, the landscape in the SE plateau might also be under influences of fault strike‐slip transfer and drainage network reorganization.
Deformation of Antigorite and Its Geological Implications
Authors: Shao Tongbin , Zhou Yongsheng , Song Maoshuang , Ma Xi , Zhang Lei , Yao Wenming , Dang Jiaxiang , Li Jianfeng
Published: June 2021

The deformation model of antigorite and its relationship to intermediate‐depth earthquakes are still controversial. Here, we conducted deformation experiments on foliated iron‐poor antigorite at confining pressures of 1,100–1,500 MPa, temperatures of 400–600°C, and axial displacement rates of 3.75 × 10−6–7.24 × 10−4 mm/s using a solid‐medium Griggs‐type apparatus. As the temperature and/or pressure increases, the stress exponent decreases, and all samples show stable fault slip. Microstructural observations show ductile behavior indicated by kinking and bending of the originally straight foliation, and brittle characteristics, such as Riedel shear, comminution, and microcracking. Therefore, antigorite deformation is controlled by a semibrittle regime. Antigorite decomposed to forsterite and enstatite in samples sheared at temperatures ≥550°C but not in samples triaxially compressed at 600°C. This observation, combined with phase boundary information, implies that the deformation geometry (e.g., triaxial compression or shear) may change the phase stability of antigorite. Following dehydration, samples still show stable fault slip, indicating that dehydration does not directly trigger earthquakes. In cold subduction zones, fine‐grained antigorite in the core of the shear zone likely induces seismic activity by producing water and talc (or a talc‐like phase) in the process of shear friction because such phases within the fault zone may reduce the rate dependence, thereby inducing unstable slip. The comparison of the semibrittle strengths of antigorite and dunite and the weak strain rate dependence of stress suggest that a thin antigorite layer immediately above the subducting slab is not sufficient to cause significant decoupling between the slab and the mantle wedge.
Terminal Suturing Between the Tarim Craton and the Yili‐Central Tianshan Arc: Insights From Mélange‐Ocean Plate Stratigraphy, Detrital Zircon Ages, and Provenance of the South Tianshan Accretionary Complex
Authors: Abuduxun Nijiati , Xiao Wenjiao , Windley Brian F. , Chen Yichao , Huang Peng , Sang Miao , Li Liang , Liu Xijun
Published: June 2021

New field relations and U‐Pb ages of detrital zircons from Middle Devonian‐Upper Triassic sedimentary rocks in the South Tianshan constrain the time and style of terminal suturing between the Tarim Craton and the Yili‐Central Tianshan arc. The variety of mélange blocks set within diagnostic thrust‐imbricates demonstrates that basalts, limestones, cherts, and sandstones belong to the Ocean Plate Stratigraphy (OPS) of an accreted oceanic plate. The imbricated OPS structure is further confirmed by our observation of lateral juxtaposition of Lower Carboniferous meta‐sandstones and Upper Carboniferous sandstones. Detrital zircon ages from Middle Devonian to Lower‐Middle Triassic rocks show no input from the Tarim Craton, but rather derivation from the Yili‐Central Tianshan arc or from isolated seamounts/oceanic plateaus within the South Tianshan oceanic plate. The integrated field observations and sediment provenance indicate that these rocks belong to the South Tianshan accretionary complex. The Upper Triassic sandstones show a mixed provenance from the Tarim Craton and the Yili‐Central Tianshan arc suggesting that the final subduction of the South Tianshan oceanic plate lasted until its terminal collision to the Tarim craton in the Late Triassic. Our work not only supports continuous northward subduction of the South Tianshan oceanic plate, but also indicates that the cryptic terminal suture between the Tarim Craton and the Yili‐Central Tianshan arc is situated on the southern boundary of the South Tianshan accretionary complex, providing new constraints on the final amalgamation of the Altaid orogen. This multi‐disciplinary study demonstrates an optimum means of unraveling the complex framework and tectonic evolution of an accretionary orogen.
Prospective cohort study on hospitalised patients with suspected urinary tract infection and risk factors por multidrug resistance
Authors: Garcia-Bustos Victor , Escrig Ana Isabel Renau , López Cristina Campo , Estellés Rosario Alonso , Jerusalem Koen , Cabañero-Navalón Marta Dafne , Massó Victoria Morell , Sigona-Giangreco Ignacio-Antonio , Sahuquillo-Arce José Miguel , Hernández Iván Castro , Lletí Miguel Salavert
Published: June 2021

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections and a frequent cause for hospitalization in the elderly. The aim of our study was to analyse epidemiological, microbiological, therapeutic, and prognostic of elderly hospitalised patients with and to determine independent risk factors for multidrug resistance and its outcome implications. A single-centre observational prospective cohort analysis of 163 adult patients hospitalized for suspected symptomatic UTI in the Departments of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Short-Stay Medical Unit of a tertiary hospital was conducted. Most patients currently admitted to hospital for UTI are elderly and usually present high comorbidity and severe dependence. More than 55% met sepsis criteria but presented with atypical symptoms. Usual risk factors for multidrug resistant pathogens were frequent. Almost one out of five patients had been hospitalized in the 90 days prior to the current admission and over 40% of patients had been treated with antibiotic in the previous 90 days. Infection by MDR bacteria was independently associated with the previous stay in nursing homes or long-term care facilities (LTCF) (OR 5.8, 95% CI 1.17–29.00), permanent bladder catheter (OR 3.55, 95% CI 1.00–12.50) and urinary incontinence (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.04–6.68). The degree of dependence and comorbidity, female sex, obesity, and bacteraemia were independent predictors of longer hospital stay. The epidemiology and presentation of UTIs requiring hospitalisation is changing over time. Attention should be paid to improve management of urinary incontinence, judicious catheterisation, and antibiotic therapy.
Tool heads prime saccades
Authors: Pilacinski Artur , De Haan Stella , Donato Rita , Almeida Jorge
Published: June 2021

Tools are wielded by their handles, but a lot of information about their function comes from their heads (the action-ends). Here we investigated whether eye saccadic movements are primed by tool handles, or whether they are primed by tool heads. We measured human saccadic reaction times while subjects were performing an attentional task. We found that saccades were executed quicker when performed to the side congruent with the tool head, even though “toolness” was irrelevant for the task. Our results show that heads are automatically processed by the visual system to orient eye movements, indicating that eyes are attracted by functional parts of manipulable objects and by the characteristic information these parts convey.
Comparative effectiveness of pharmacological interventions to prevent postoperative delirium: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Park Sun-Kyung , Lim Taeyoon , Cho Hyeyeon , Yoon Hyun-Kyu , Lee Ho-Jin , Lee Ji-Hyun , Yoo Seokha , Kim Jin-Tae , Kim Won Ho
Published: June 2021

Many pharmacologic agents were investigated for the effect to prevent delirium. We aimed to comprehensively compare the effect of the pharmacological interventions to prevent postoperative delirium. A Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized trials was performed using random effects model. PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase were searched on 20 January 2021. Randomized trials comparing the effect of a drug to prevent postoperative delirium with another drug or placebo in adult patients undergoing any kind of surgery were included. Primary outcome was the postoperative incidence of delirium. Eighty-six trials with 26,992 participants were included. Dexmedetomidine, haloperidol, and atypical antipsychotics significantly decreased the incidence of delirium than placebo [dexmedetomidine: odds ratio 0.51, 95% credible interval (CrI) 0.40–0.66, moderate quality of evidence (QOE); haloperidol: odds ratio 0.59, 95% CrI 0.37–0.95, moderate QOE; atypical antipsychotics: odds ratio 0.27, 95% CrI 0.14–0.51, moderate QOE]. Dexmedetomidine and atypical antipsychotics had the highest-ranking probabilities to be the best. However, significant heterogeneity regarding diagnostic time window as well as small study effects precludes firm conclusion.
Ocular manifestations in Chinese adult patients with NLRP3-associated autoinflammatory disease
Authors: Meng Tianli , Wu Di , Luo Yi , Wu Na , Zhao Mengzhu , Shen Min , Yu Weihong
Published: June 2021

NLRP3-associated autoinflammatory disease (NLRP3-AID) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder involving multiple systems. We aim to assess the ocular manifestations of Chinese adult patients with NLRP3-AID. Twelve adult patients (> 18 years old) were diagnosed as NLRP3-AID at the Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital. All patients underwent ophthalmologic evaluation by an ophthalmologist. Clinical and genetic features of these patients were collected and compared with those from Caucasian population. A total of 7 NLRP3-AID patients (58%) 14 eyes had ocular manifestations. Five NLRP3 variants were identified, and 3 patients (43%) with severe ocular damages were all found to have the NLRP3 T348M variant. The incidences of papilledema and optic atrophy in the Chinese adult NLRP3-AID patients of moderate type were similar to those in the Caucasian NLRP3-AID patients of severe type. This is the first cohort of Chinese adult NLRP3-AID patients with ocular involvement. Ocular manifestations were diverse and even severe in NLRP3-AID, particularly in patients with the moderate phenotype, and may have relationship with genotypes. Awareness of these manifestations by rheumatologists and ophthalmologists could help to avoid the irreversible ocular damages.
Facile fabricating of rGO and Au/rGO nanocomposites using Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes biomass for non-invasive approach in cancer therapy
Authors: Yousefimehr Fatemeh , Jafarirad Saeed , Salehi Roya , Zakerhamidi Mohammad Sadegh
Published: June 2021

In this study, we report a facile green-synthesis route for the fabrication of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using biomass of Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes (B. oleracea). In addition, we have attempted to provide a green synthesis approach to prepare Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) on the surface of rGO by using stem extract of B. oleracea. The synthesized Au/rGO nanocomposite was evaluated using UV–visible and FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, Raman, FE-SEM, EDX, AFM and DLS techniques. The obtained results demonstrated that the synthesized Au NPs on the surface of rGO was spherical with sizes ranging about 12–18 nm. The Au/rGO NC was, also, developed as photo-synthesizer system for the photothermal therapy (PTT) of MCF7 breast cancer cells. The near-infrared (NIR) photothermal properties of Au/rGO NCs was evaluated using a continuous laser at 808 nm with power densities of 1 W.cm−2. Their photothermal efficacy on MCF7 breast cancer cells after optimizing the proper concentration of the NCs were evaluated by MTT assay, Cell cycle and DAPI staining. In addition, the potential of the synthesized Au/rGO NCs on reactive oxygen species generating and antioxidant activity were assessed by DPPH. Au/rGO NCs possess high capacity to light-to-heat conversion for absorption in range NIR light, and it is able to therapeutic effects on MCF7 cells at a low concentration. The maximum amount of cell death is 40.12% which was observed in treatment groups that received a combination of Au/rGO NCs and laser irradiation. The results demonstrate that the nanomaterials synthesized by green approach lead to efficient destruction of cancer cell and might thus serve as an excellent theranostic agent in Photothermal therapy applications.
Transcriptome profiling analysis of muscle tissue reveals potential candidate genes affecting water holding capacity in Chinese Simmental beef cattle
Authors: Du Lili , Chang Tianpeng , An Bingxing , Liang Mang , Duan Xinghai , Cai Wentao , Zhu Bo , Gao Xue , Chen Yan , Xu Lingyang , Zhang Lupei , Li Junya , Gao Huijiang
Published: June 2021

Water holding capacity (WHC) is an important sensory attribute that greatly influences meat quality. However, the molecular mechanism that regulates the beef WHC remains to be elucidated. In this study, the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscles of 49 Chinese Simmental beef cattle were measured for meat quality traits and subjected to RNA sequencing. WHC had significant correlation with 35 kg water loss (r = − 0.99, p < 0.01) and IMF content (r = 0.31, p < 0.05), but not with SF (r = − 0.20, p = 0.18) and pH (r = 0.11, p = 0.44). Eight individuals with the highest WHC (H-WHC) and the lowest WHC (L-WHC) were selected for transcriptome analysis. A total of 865 genes were identified as differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between two groups, of which 633 genes were up-regulated and 232 genes were down-regulated. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment revealed that DEGs were significantly enriched in 15 GO terms and 96 pathways. Additionally, based on protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, animal QTL database (QTLdb), and relevant literature, the study not only confirmed seven genes (HSPA12A, HSPA13, PPARγ, MYL2, MYPN, TPI, and ATP2A1) influenced WHC in accordance with previous studies, but also identified ATP2B4, ACTN1, ITGAV, TGFBR1, THBS1, and TEK as the most promising novel candidate genes affecting the WHC. These findings could offer important insight for exploring the molecular mechanism underlying the WHC trait and facilitate the improvement of beef quality.
Reproduction strategies of the silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) at post-industrial sites
Authors: Franiel Izabella , Kompała-Bąba Agnieszka
Published: June 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the parameters of reproductive traits, specimens’ fertility and reproductive efficiency observed in Betula pendula populations growing at different types of sites (zinc-lead heaps, coal mine heaps and unpolluted site). The leaf biomass and the biometric characteristics of inflorescences and fructifications were identified. Moreover, the biometric parameters of B. pendula seedlings were evaluated for examined sites. Seed-originated trees mostly of age 40 were randomly selected and from each tree, a branches from 1.70 m height and orientation N–S, W–E to the cardinal points of the stem were chosen. In the laboratory, selected soil parameters, the viability of pollen and the seeding value of seeds were analysed. According to the multidimensional statistical analysis the populations of B. pendula growing on post-industrial wastelands represent different morphotypes with lower values of almost all the reproductive traits, compared to the unpolluted birch population. Such traits as the male:female catkin number ratio and the non-embryo seed number were positively correlated with the heavy metal content at the zinc-lead heaps; at the same time these traits were negatively correlated with soil fertility. The fully developed seed number and the mature female catkin number were strongly correlated with the available potassium and phosphorus soil content but also with the leaf number on the generative shoots. The specimens of birch growing in these three habitats did not develop a universal reproductive strategy. Some differences in fecundity, the condition of seeds and the patterns of seed germination were found. The resulting seedling survival is determined by the plasticity of biometric traits, sheltered places for germination, etc. Seedlings that originated from heaps (local gene resources) are more suitable for use in the reclamation of large amounts of waste.
Tissue microarray profiling and integrative proteomics indicate the modulatory potential of Maytenus royleanus in inhibition of overexpressed TPD52 in prostate cancers
Authors: Shabbir Maria , Mukhtar Hasan , Syed Deeba , Razak Suhail , Afsar Tayyaba , Almajwal Ali , Badshah Yasmin , Aldisi Dara
Published: June 2021

Maytenus roylanus (MEM) is a plant with anti-proliferative effects against prostate cancer. We aimed to explore the mechanism of action of MEM in prostate cancer (PCa) by employing an in vitro global proteome approach to get useful information of various signaling pathways and effected genes to define the mechanism of MEM action in prostate cancer. We conducted a global proteome analysis of CWR22Rv1after treatment with methanolic extract of MEM. The result of the proteomic profiling of in vitro PCa cells demonstrated the reduction in tumor protein D52 (TPD52) expression after treatment with methanolic extract of MEM. Down-regulation of TPD52 expression at mRNA level was observed by MEM treatment in CWR22Rν1 and C4-2 cells in a dose-dependent fashion probably by cleavage of Caspase 3 and PARP, or by modulation of cyclin-dependent kinases in CWR22Rν1 and C4-2 cells. The progressive character of the TRAMP model demonstrates a chance to evaluate the potential of chemo-preventive agents for both initial and late stages of prostate cancer development, and induction in TPD52 protein expression with development as well as the progression of prostate cancer was observed in the TRAMP model. Analyses of the tissue microarray collection of 25 specimens confirmed the clinical significance of our findings identifying TPD52 as a potential marker for PCa progression. We determined that knockdown of TPD52 (CWR22Rν1 cells), a considerable downregulation was seen at the protein level. Downregulation of TPD52 inhibited the migration and invasive behavior of prostate cancer cells as observed. Moreover, we observed that the siRNA-TPD52 transfection of CWR22Rν1 cells resulted in tumor growth inhibition with a marked reduction in the secretion of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the serum. Intraperitoneal injection of MEM considerably slowed tumor growth in athymic mice, inhibited TPD52 expression, and caused a marked reduction in PSA levels of serum as demonstrated by immunoblot screening and immune-histochemical staining. This report illustrates a molecular overview of pathological processes in PCa, indicating possible new disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Colchicine inhibits ROS generation in response to glycoprotein VI stimulation
Authors: Pennings G. J. , Reddel C. J. , Traini M. , Campbell H. , Chen V. , Kritharides L.
Published: June 2021

Colchicine inhibits coronary and cerebrovascular events in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), and although known to have anti-inflammatory properties, its mechanisms of action are incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of colchicine on platelet activation with a particular focus on its effects on activation via the collagen glycoprotein (GP)VI receptor, P2Y12 receptor, and procoagulant platelet formation. Therapeutic concentrations of colchicine in vitro (equivalent to plasma levels) significantly decreased platelet aggregation in whole blood and in platelet rich plasma in response to collagen (multiplate aggregometry) and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (H2DCF-DA, flow cytometry) in response to GPVI stimulation with collagen related peptide-XL (CRP-XL, GPVI specific agonist). Other platelet activation pathways including P-selectin expression, GPIIb/IIIa conformational change and procoagulant platelet formation (GSAO+/CD62P+) (flow cytometry) were inhibited with higher concentrations of colchicine known to inhibit microtubule depolymerization. Pathway specific mechanisms of action of colchicine on platelets, including modulation of the GPVI receptor pathway at low concentrations, may contribute to its protective role in CAD.
Effects of sliding liquefaction on homogeneous loess landslides in western China
Authors: Hong Yong , Ling Xianzhang , He Keqiang
Published: June 2021

Sliding liquefaction is considered to be the cause of high-speed and long-distance sliding of some homogeneous loess landslides in western China. However, there is still a lack of necessary experimental research and analysis on the effects of sliding liquefaction on these landslides. In this work, the effects of sliding liquefaction on irrigation-induced, high-speed and long-distance loess landslides on the South Jingyang Tableland area in China are studied by performing large-scale ring shear tests and using the sled mode. The results are as follows. (1) There are two kinds of long-runout sliding modes of loess landslides on the South Jingyang Tableland: sliding along the terrace surface and sliding within the saturated terrace alluvium, which is associated with sliding liquefaction. Both sliding modes can lead to long-runout sliding. (2) There are some differences in the inclination of the sliding surface between the two sliding modes. Based on the inclination of the sliding surface, the corresponding sliding mode can be distinguished. (3) Under the two sliding modes, the large shear mechanical properties of the two-layer soil composed of loess and alluvial sandy silt show significant differences. The friction between the loess and dry terrace alluvium increases with increasing normal stress and shear rate, while the friction between the loess and saturated terrace alluvium presents the opposite trend. The results show that the sliding distances under different sliding modes present opposite trends with the change in sliding speed. (4) Based on the test results from the ring shear tests and the morphological characteristics of the sliding surface, the sliding mode and sliding distance of a loess landslide can be identified and predicted.
Two RmlC homologs catalyze dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-d-glucose epimerization in Pseudomonas putida KT2440
Authors: Koller Franziska , Lassak Jürgen
Published: June 2021

l-Rhamnose is an important monosaccharide both as nutrient source and as building block in prokaryotic glycoproteins and glycolipids. Generation of those composite molecules requires activated precursors being provided e. g. in form of nucleotide sugars such as dTDP-β-l-rhamnose (dTDP-l-Rha). dTDP-l-Rha is synthesized in a conserved 4-step reaction which is canonically catalyzed by the enzymes RmlABCD. An intact pathway is especially important for the fitness of pseudomonads, as dTDP-l-Rha is essential for the activation of the polyproline specific translation elongation factor EF-P in these bacteria. Within the scope of this study, we investigated the dTDP-l-Rha-biosynthesis route of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 with a focus on the last two steps. Bioinformatic analysis in combination with a screening approach revealed that epimerization of dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-d-glucose to dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-l-mannose is catalyzed by the two paralogous proteins PP_1782 (RmlC1) and PP_0265 (RmlC2), whereas the reduction to the final product is solely mediated by PP_1784 (RmlD). Thus, we also exclude the distinct RmlD homolog PP_0500 and the genetically linked nucleoside diphosphate-sugar epimerase PP_0501 to be involved in dTDP-l-Rha formation, other than suggested by certain databases. Together our analysis contributes to the molecular understanding how this important nucleotide-sugar is synthesized in pseudomonads.
Complementary methods for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis in times of material shortage
Authors: Sandri Thaisa Lucas , Inoue Juliana , Geiger Johanna , Griesbaum Johanna-Marie , Heinzel Constanze , Burnet Michael , Fendel Rolf , Kremsner Peter G. , Held Jana , Kreidenweiss Andrea
Published: June 2021

The pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 resulted in increasing demands for diagnostic tests, leading to a shortage of recommended testing materials and reagents. This study reports on the performance of self-sampled alternative swabbing material (ordinary Q-tips tested against flocked swab and rayon swab), of reagents for classical RNA extraction (phenol/guanidine-based protocol against a commercial kit), and of intercalating dye-based one-step quantitative reverse transcription real-time PCRs (RT-qPCR) compared against the gold standard hydrolysis probe-based assays for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The study found sampling with Q-tips, RNA extraction with classical protocol and intercalating dye-based RT-qPCR as a reliable and comparably sensitive strategy for detection of SARS-CoV-2—particularly valuable in the current period with a resurgent and dramatic increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections and growing shortage of diagnostic materials especially for regions limited in resources.
The efficacy of public health information for encouraging radon gas awareness and testing varies by audience age, sex and profession
Authors: Cholowsky Natasha L. , Irvine Jesse L. , Simms Justin A. , Pearson Dustin D. , Jacques Weston R. , Peters Cheryl. E. , Goodarzi Aaron A. , Carlson Linda E.
Published: June 2021

Radioactive radon inhalation is a leading cause of lung cancer and underlies an ongoing public health crisis. Radon exposure prevention strategies typically begin by informing populations about health effects, and their initial efficacy is measured by how well and how fast information convinces individuals to test properties. This communication process is rarely individualized, and there is little understanding if messages impact diverse demographics equally. Here, we explored how 2,390 people interested in radon testing differed in their reaction to radon's public health information and their subsequent decision to test. Only 20% were prompted to radon test after 1 encounter with awareness information, while 65% required 2–5 encounters over several months, and 15% needed 6 to > 10 encounters over many years. People who most delayed testing were more likely to be men or involved in engineering, architecture, real estate and/or physical science-related professions. Social pressures were not a major factor influencing radon testing. People who were the least worried about radon health risks were older and/or men, while negative emotional responses to awareness information were reported more by younger people, women and/or parents. This highlights the importance of developing targeted demographic messaging to create effective radon exposure prevention strategies.
Fracture heat map of the facial skull demonstrates a danger zone of concomitant cervical spine injuries
Authors: Bicsák Ákos , Sarge Robert , Müller Oliver , Hassfeld Stefan , Bonitz Lars
Published: June 2021

Concomitant maxillofacial and cervical spine injuries occur in 0.8–12% of the cases. We examined the relation of injury localization and the probability of cervical spine fracture. A retrospective study was conducted on patients that have been treated at Dortmund General Hospital for injuries both to the maxillofacial region and to the cervical spine between January 1st, 2007 and December 31th, 2017. Descriptive statistical methods were used to describe the correlation of cervical spine injuries with gender, age as well as maxillofacial injury localization. 7708 patients were hospitalized with maxillofacial injury, among them 173 were identified with cervical spine injury. The average ages for both genders lie remarkably above the average of all maxillofacial trauma patients (36.2 y.o. in male and 50.9 y.o. in female). In the group of men, most injuries were found between the ages of 50 and 65. Whereas most injuries among women occurred after the age of 80. The relative ratio of cervical spine injuries (CSI) varies between 1.1 and 5.26% of the maxillofacial injuries (MFI), being highest in the soft tissue injury group, patients with forehead fractures (3.12%) and patients with panfacial fractures (2.52%). Further, nasal, Le Fort I and II, zygomatic complex and mandibular condyle fractures are often associated with CSI. Fractures next to the Frankfurt horizontal plane represent 87.7% of all MFI with concomitant CSI. Patients in critical age groups with a high-energy injury are more likely to suffer both, MFI and CSI injuries. Our findings help to avoid missing the diagnosis of cervical spine injury in maxillofacial trauma patients.
A small molecule inhibitor of Nox2 and Nox4 improves contractile function after ischemia–reperfusion in the mouse heart
Authors: Szekeres Ferenc L. M. , Walum Erik , Wikström Per , Arner Anders
Published: June 2021

The NADPH oxidase enzymes Nox2 and 4, are important generators of Reactive oxygen species (ROS). These enzymes are abundantly expressed in cardiomyocytes and have been implicated in ischemia–reperfusion injury. Previous attempts with full inhibition of their activity using genetically modified animals have shown variable results, suggesting that a selective and graded inhibition could be a more relevant approach. We have, using chemical library screening, identified a new compound (GLX481304) which inhibits Nox 2 and 4 (with IC50 values of 1.25 µM) without general antioxidant effects or inhibitory effects on Nox 1. The compound inhibits ROS production in isolated mouse cardiomyocytes and improves cardiomyocyte contractility and contraction of whole retrogradely (Langendorff) perfused hearts after a global ischemia period. We conclude that a pharmacological and partial inhibition of ROS production by inhibition of Nox 2 and 4 is beneficial for recovery after ischemia reperfusion and might be a promising venue for treatment of ischemic injury to the heart.
Monkey V1 epidural field potentials provide detailed information about stimulus location, size, shape, and color
Authors: Fischer Benjamin , Wegener Detlef
Published: June 2021

Brain signal recordings with epidural microarrays constitute a low-invasive approach for recording distributed neuronal signals. Epidural field potentials (EFPs) may serve as a safe and highly beneficial signal source for a variety of research questions arising from both basic and applied neuroscience. A wider use of these signals, however, is constrained by a lack of data on their specific information content. Here, we make use of the high spatial resolution and the columnar organization of macaque primary visual cortex (V1) to investigate whether and to what extent EFP signals preserve information about various visual stimulus features. Two monkeys were presented with different feature combinations of location, size, shape, and color, yielding a total of 375 stimulus conditions. Visual features were chosen to access different spatial levels of functional organization. We found that, besides being highly specific for locational information, EFPs were significantly modulated by small differences in size, shape, and color, allowing for high stimulus classification rates even at the single-trial level. The results support the notion that EFPs constitute a low-invasive, highly beneficial signal source for longer-term recordings for medical and basic research by showing that they convey detailed and reliable information about constituent features of activating stimuli.
Functional in vivo characterization of sox10 enhancers in neural crest and melanoma development
Authors: Cunningham Rebecca L. , Kramer Eva T. , DeGeorgia Sophia K. , Godoy Paula M. , Zarov Anna P. , Seneviratne Shayana , Grigura Vadim , Kaufman Charles K.
Published: June 2021

The role of a neural crest developmental transcriptional program, which critically involves Sox10 upregulation, is a key conserved aspect of melanoma initiation in both humans and zebrafish, yet transcriptional regulation of sox10 expression is incompletely understood. Here we used ATAC-Seq analysis of multiple zebrafish melanoma tumors to identify recurrently open chromatin domains as putative melanoma-specific sox10 enhancers. Screening in vivo with EGFP reporter constructs revealed 9 of 11 putative sox10 enhancers with embryonic activity in zebrafish. Focusing on the most active enhancer region in melanoma, we identified a region 23 kilobases upstream of sox10, termed peak5, that drives EGFP reporter expression in a subset of neural crest cells, Kolmer-Agduhr neurons, and early melanoma patches and tumors with high specificity. A ~200 base pair region, conserved in Cyprinidae, within peak5 is required for transgenic reporter activity in neural crest and melanoma. This region contains dimeric SoxE/Sox10 dimeric binding sites essential for peak5 neural crest and melanoma activity. We show that deletion of the endogenous peak5 conserved genomic locus decreases embryonic sox10 expression and disrupts adult stripe patterning in our melanoma model background. Our work demonstrates the power of linking developmental and cancer models to better understand neural crest identity in melanoma.
LINE-1 transcription in round spermatids is associated with accretion of 5-carboxylcytosine in their open reading frames
Authors: Blythe Martin J. , Kocer Ayhan , Rubio-Roldan Alejandro , Giles Tom , Abakir Abdulkadir , Ialy-Radio Côme , Wheldon Lee M. , Bereshchenko Oxana , Bruscoli Stefano , Kondrashov Alexander , Drevet Joël R. , Emes Richard D. , Johnson Andrew D. , McCarrey John R. , Gackowski Daniel , Olinski Ryszard , Cocquet Julie , Garcia-Perez Jose L. , Ruzov Alexey
Published: June 2021

Chromatin of male and female gametes undergoes a number of reprogramming events during the transition from germ cell to embryonic developmental programs. Although the rearrangement of DNA methylation patterns occurring in the zygote has been extensively characterized, little is known about the dynamics of DNA modifications during spermatid maturation. Here, we demonstrate that the dynamics of 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC) correlate with active transcription of LINE-1 retroelements during murine spermiogenesis. We show that the open reading frames of active and evolutionary young LINE-1s are 5caC-enriched in round spermatids and 5caC is eliminated from LINE-1s and spermiogenesis-specific genes during spermatid maturation, being simultaneously retained at promoters and introns of developmental genes. Our results reveal an association of 5caC with activity of LINE-1 retrotransposons suggesting a potential direct role for this DNA modification in fine regulation of their transcription.
Ti3C2 supported transition metal oxides and silver as catalysts toward efficient electricity generation in microbial fuel cells
Authors: Wang Xinghong , Gong Xiaobo , Chen Liu , Li Siyu , Xie Jinlin , Liu Yong
Published: June 2021

The improved electricity generation performance of MFCs could be attributed to the Ti3C2 support and the synergistic effect between transition metal oxides and silver for ORR.
Influence of surface defects on activity and selectivity: a quantitative study of structure sensitivity of Pd catalysts for acetylene hydrogenation
Authors: Xie Wenbo , Hu P.
Published: June 2021

The structure sensitivity of Pd catalysed acetylene hydrogenation is quantitatively examined using a coverage-dependent microkinetic model. Pd(211) was found to be more active than Pd(111), but present a poorer selectivity toward ethylene.
Coordinately unsaturated O2c–Ti5c–O2c sites promote the reactivity of Pt/TiO2 catalysts in the solvent-free oxidation of n-octanol
Authors: Yang Pengfei , Douthwaite Mark , Pan Jiahao , Zheng Lirong , Hong Song , Morgan David J. , Gao Mingyu , Li Dianqing , Feng Junting , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: June 2021

Coordination unsaturated O2c–Ti5c–O2c of TiO2 (001) facets promote the formation of low-coordinate Pt metal clusters, which enhances catalytic performance in aerobic 1-octanol oxidation.
Biomass-based 0D/3D N-CQD/MIL-53(Fe) photocatalyst for the simultaneous remediation of multiple hazardous pollutants in sewage
Authors: Qiang Taotao , Chen Lu , Qin Xiangtao
Published: June 2021

The implementation of N-CQD/MIL-53(Fe) photocatalyst in the area of photocatalytic multi-component sewage remediation.
Co–Cr bimetallic oxides derived from layered double hydroxides with high catalytic performance for chlorinated aromatics oxidation
Authors: Deng Wei , Gao Biao , Jia Ziye , Liu Dongqi , Guo Limin
Published: June 2021

Co–Cr bimetallic oxides with different Co/Cr molar ratios were prepared through a layered double hydroxide (LDH)-derived method.
Recovery and separation of uranium in a microbial fuel cell using a titanium dioxide nanotube array cathode
Authors: Liu Wenbin , Lin Leiming , Meng Ying , Zhao Ziwang , Wang Yahua , Luan Fubo
Published: June 2021

Microbial fuel cell with titanium dioxide nanotube array cathode was first demonstrated as a promising approach for uranium recovery and separation from groundwater.
Magnetic nanoparticles: an emerging nano-based tool to fight against viral infections
Authors: Jat Sanjeev K. , Gandhi Harsh A. , Bhattacharya Jaydeep , Sharma Manoj K.
Published: June 2021

Magnetic nanoparticles are emerging as reliable and novel tool for the clinical diagnosis, detection, and treatment of viral infections.
Cation disorder and octahedral distortion control of internal electric field, band bending and carrier lifetime in Aurivillius perovskite solid solutions for enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Malik Jaideep , Kumar Shubham , Srivastava Priya , Bag Monojit , Mandal Tapas Kumar
Published: June 2021

Enhanced photocatalytic activity of Aurivillius perovskite solid solutions demonstrates the compositional control of cation disorder and octahedral distortion that regulates the internal electric field and other factors affecting overall activity.
Nickel-catalyzed defluorinative alkylation of C(sp2)–F bonds
Authors: Tong Xue , Luo Si-Si , Shen Hua , Zhang Shu , Cao Tian , Luo Yi-Peng , Huang Long-Ling , Ma Xi-Tao , Liu Xiang-Wei
Published: June 2021

A nickel-catalyzed defluorinative alkylation of unactivated C(sp2)–F electrophiles using commercially available trialkylaluminum reagents, thus forming the C(sp2)–C(sp3) bonds is reported.
Friedel–Crafts acylation of antiaromatic norcorroles: electronic and steric modulation of the paratropic current
Authors: Li Sha , Smaga Oskar , Sun Yahan , Li Xiaofang , Pawlicki Miłosz , Sukniewicz Marzena , Chmielewski Piotr J.
Published: June 2021

The first ever Friedel–Crafts acylation of an antiaromatic macrocycle was performed for norcorrolatonickel(ii) reacting with aromatic or aliphatic carboxylic acid chlorides in the presence of AlCl3.
Synthesis of a hollow-structured flower-like Fe3O4@MoS2 composite and its microwave-absorption properties
Authors: Xiang Guanghong , Chen Mingyang , Ni Zhewei , Shen Yong , Xu Lihui
Published: June 2021

A hollow-structured flower-like Fe3O4@MoS2 composite was synthesized. The minimum reflection loss value reached −49.6 dB at 13.2 GHz with a thickness of 2.0 mm and the effective absorbing bandwidth was 4.24 GHz (11.68–15.92 GHz).
Dynamic ionic radius of alkali metal ions in aqueous solution: a pulsed-field gradient NMR study
Authors: Hayamizu Kikuko , Chiba Yusuke , Haishi Tomoyuki
Published: June 2021

Stokes radius (dynamic ionic radius) of the alkali metal ions versus the ionic radius (Rion) at 303 K. The dotted line is a guide for the 1 : 1 relation.
W2N/WC composite nanofibers as an efficient electrocatalyst for photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution
Authors: Cao Yueyue , Wang Lanfang , Chen Moyan , Xu Xiaohong
Published: June 2021

(a) The element mapping image of W2N/WC nanofiber. (b) LSV curve of CFP, WO3, W2N, W2N/WC, WC and commercially available Pt/C catalysts tested in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution under light conditions. (c) The photocurrent response curve under −0.6 V.
Metal citrate nanoparticles: a robust water-soluble plant micronutrient source
Authors: Chandrika K. S. V. Poorna , Patra Dinabandhu , Yadav Praduman , Qureshi A. Aziz , Gopalan Balaji
Published: June 2021

A series of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) plant nanonutrients in citrate form were prepared by an eco-friendly solid-state grinding of the respective nitrates and citric acid.
Cross-linking of a polyketide synthase domain leads to a recyclable biocatalyst for chiral oxygen heterocycle synthesis
Authors: Wagner Lisa , Roß Theresa , Hollmann Tim , Hahn Frank
Published: June 2021

Cross-linking of the polyketide synthase domain AmbDH3 led to an active aggregate with improved properties for the chemoenzymatic synthesis of chiral oxygen heterocycles, such as recyclability and facile purification.
One-flow upscaling neutralization of an organophosphonate-derived pesticide/nerve agent simulant to value-added chemicals in a novel Teflon microreactor platform
Authors: Sharma Brijesh M. , Yim Se-Jun , Nikam Arun , Ahn Gwang-Noh , Kim Dong-Pyo
Published: June 2021

Synthesizing value-added products from chemical warfare agents is a concept well beyond the usual notion of simply neutralizing the agents.
Designing the electronic and geometric structures of single-atom and nanocluster catalysts
Authors: Chen Tianxiang , Ye Lin , Lo Tsz Woon Benedict
Published: June 2021

This perspective showcases the interplay between electronic and geometric structures with respect to the catalytic properties of single-atom and nanocluster catalysts.
Boosting electrochemical CO2reduction to formate using SnO2/graphene oxide with amide linkages
Authors: Yang Zhongjie , Yang Caoyu , Han Jianyu , Zhao Wenshi , Shao Shengxian , Li Siyu , Gao Huiwen , Xie Haijiao , Zhang Xiaofei
Published: June 2021

Tuning the efficiency of CO2conversion by surface modification of SnO2/graphene oxide.
Enhancement of thermoelectric performance in a non-toxic CuInTe2/SnTe coated grain nanocomposite
Authors: Hwang Junphil , Lee Minju , Yu Byung-Kyu , Han Mi-Kyung , Kim Woochul , Kim Jungwon , Al Rahal Al Orabi Rabih , Wang Hongchao , Acharya Somnath , Kim Jiyong , Jin Yingshi , Park Hwanjoo , Kim Sujin , Yang So-Hyeon , Kim Sung-Jin
Published: June 2021

A new design strategy to synthesize a toxic-free coated grain nanocomposite. Synergetic enhancement of thermoelectric performance by energy filtering and coherent phonon scattering.
Electrofabrication of flexible and mechanically strong tubular chitosan implants for peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Liu Hongyu , Zhao Yanan , Tong Jun , Shi Xiaowen , Chen Yun , Du Yumin
Published: June 2021

Flexible and mechanically strong chitosan conduits were facilely prepared by one-step electrofabrication. The chitosan conduits demonstrated effective peripheral nerve regeneration capability in rats.
Enhancement of gold-nanocluster-mediated chemotherapeutic efficiency of cisplatin in lung cancer
Authors: Jiang Mei , Lin Yuchen , Fang Xiaocui , Liu Mingpeng , Ma Lilusi , Liu Jingyi , Chen Mengting , Yang Yanlian , Wang Chen
Published: June 2021

A novel delivery system for cisplatin based on electrostatics-mediated assemblies of gold nanoclusters and PEGylated cationic peptide was constructed. The constructed cisplatin@GC-pKs showed much enhanced anti-tumor activity for lung cancer therapy.