bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
4D Proxy Imaging of Fracture Dilation and Stress Shadowing Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography During High Pressure Injections Into a Dense Rock Formation
Authors: Johnson T. C. , Burghardt J. , Strickland C. , Knox H. , Vermeul V. , White M. , Schwering P. , Blankenship D. , Kneafsey T. ,   the EGS Collab Team
Published: October 2021

Fluid flow through fractured rock systems is governed in large part by the distribution, interconnectivity, and size of fracture apertures. In‐situ stress is one of the primary factors controlling fracture aperture, and one that is altered significantly during high‐pressure fluid injections or extractions. Interactions between stress, pore pressure, aperture, and fluid flow can result in complex and evolving poroelastic behavior with significant implications regarding the predictability and risk involved with developing and managing deep subsurface reservoirs (geothermal, fossil energy, and geologic carbon sequestration). In saturated rocks, bulk electrical conductivity is sensitive to both primary and secondary porosity (i.e., matrix porosity and fractures), and therefore to fracture aperture size and distribution. We demonstrate the use of time‐lapse 3D electrical resistivity tomography for remotely monitoring stress induced changes in aperture distribution during high pressure injections into a dense fractured rock system at a scale of tens of meters. Results reveal a complex and continuously evolving stress field involving aperture dilations in the natural fracture system and aperture contractions in adjacent zones of shadow stress. Results provide information about the spatiotemporal changes in the system behavior and point to the potential of electrical imaging for autonomously and remotely monitoring evolving stress conditions by proxy through changes in bulk electrical conductivity.
Large‐Scale Signals in the South Pacific Wave Fields Related to ENSO
Authors: Li Rui , Wu Kejian , Li Jingkai , Akhter Shaila , Dong Xianghui , Sun Jian , Cao Tonggang
Published: October 2021

Surface waves play an important role in oceans. By using 40 years of reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts, CERA‐20C, we get the signal of the Antarctic Circumpolar Wave (ACW) in the Southern Ocean wave filed. In addition, this signal with a 5‐year period, can be transmitted to low latitudes by northward swells. The swells from the Southern Ocean, which link the high and low latitudes, have been proved to affect the tropical ocean by analyzing swell height with the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. This paper also shows the relation between El Niño and northward wave transport from the Southern Ocean. After El Niño outbreaks, the northward wave transport increases abnormally. The highest correlation coefficient is located around 12°S, with values around 0.79 and northward wave transport lags the Niño3 index by 1–2 months. With the decrease in latitudes, the lag time is longer and correlation coefficient increases. The cold water transport induced by waves from higher latitudes has a cooling effect on the decline of El Niño. There is an inextricable link between wave transport and El Niño.
Wetter Subtropics Lead to Reduced Pliocene Coastal Upwelling
Authors: Fu Minmin , Cane Mark A. , Molnar Peter , Tziperman Eli
Published: October 2021

Current global warming scenarios suggest surface temperatures may attain warmth last seen during periods of the early‐to mid‐Pliocene (5.3–3 Ma). Pliocene proxy reconstructions suggest sea surface temperatures 3–9°C warmer than today along midlatitude coastal upwelling sites. Recent climate modeling efforts focused on the mid‐Piacenzian period showed a good model‐data fit over midlatitude upwelling regions, but did not attempt to reproduce proxy records of early‐Pliocene warmth. Evidence also suggests that subtropical continents were wetter then; we show that warm coastal SSTs can be explained via such wetter land conditions near the upwelling sites. Using a global atmospheric model, we show that introducing idealized wetter conditions over subtropical continents leads to reductions in upwelling‐favorable wind events by weakening the land‐sea surface pressure gradient. The resulting weaker coastal upwelling of cold deep water can help explain the inferred warm coastal temperatures.
Hydrologic Model Parameter Estimation in Ungauged Basins Using Simulated SWOT Discharge Observations
Authors: Elmer Nicholas J. , McCreight James , Hain Christopher
Published: October 2021

In situ gauge networks are often used in hydrologic model calibration, but these networks are limited or nonexistent in many regions. The upcoming Surface Water Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission promises to fill this observation gap by providing discharge estimates for rivers wider than 100 m. SWOT observation utility for model parameter selection in regions devoid of in situ gauges is assessed using proxy SWOT discharge estimates derived from an observing system simulation experiment and Monte Carlo methods. The sensitivity of the parameter selection to measurement error and observation frequency is also evaluated. Single‐ and multi‐point parameter selection are performed for ten sub‐basins within the Susitna and upper Tanana river basins in Alaska. SWOT is expected to observe Alaskan river points 4–7 times per 21‐day repeat cycle with 120‐km swath coverage. For an expected SWOT measurement error of 35%, parameter estimation is successful for 50% (90%) of sub‐basins using single‐ (multi‐) point parameter selection. Decreasing observation frequency to simulate lower latitudes resulted in success for only 10% of midlatitude and tropical sub‐basins for single‐point selection, whereas multi‐point selection was successful in 80% (60%) of midlatitude (tropical) sub‐basins. Single‐point parameter selection is more sensitive to measurement error than multi‐point parameter selection. The results strongly support the use of multi‐point over single‐point parameter selection, yielding robust results nearly independent of observation frequency. Most importantly, this study suggests SWOT can be used to successfully select hydrologic model parameters in basins without an in situ gauge network.
Evidence of Smoke From Wildland Fire in Surface Water of an Unburned Watershed
Authors: Evans Joshua S. , Norman Ann‐Lise , Reid Mary L.
Published: October 2021

Large wildland fires generate smoke that can compromise air quality over a wide area. Limited studies have suggested that smoke constituents may enter natural water bodies. In an 18‐year water monitoring study, we examined whether smoke from distant wildland fires had a detectable effect on ion content in a mountain river in an unburned watershed. Significant local smoke occurred in six years as traced by MODIS satellite data of fires, regional and local atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and the amount of potassium (K+) in PM2.5 as a marker of vegetation combustion. Rainwater had elevated K+ and calcium (Ca2+, also associated with wildland fire smoke) in high‐smoke years compared to low‐smoke years, and was the primary route of atmospheric deposition. Similarly, river water in high‐smoke years had elevated concentrations of K+ and Ca2+, with a higher ratio of K+ to Ca2+ compared to low‐smoke years. River concentrations were generally unrelated to river discharge and observed K+ concentrations in high‐smoke and low‐smoke years could be accounted for by atmospheric deposition. Our study provides early evidence that wildland fires affect water quality far beyond the watersheds where they occur. Wildland fires distribute vast quantities of smoke containing nutrients, toxins and microbes and are increasing in North America. Potassium is a routinely‐measured water quality parameter that can act as an indicator of biomass smoke inputs. Further work is needed on the patterns and processes by which wildfire smoke enters water as well as on the consequences for ecosystems and human health.
A careful reassessment of anthracycline use in curable breast cancer
Authors: Hurvitz Sara Alsterlind , McAndrew Nicholas P. , Bardia Aditya , Press Michael F. , Pegram Mark , Crown John P. , Fasching Peter A. , Ejlertsen Bent , Yang Eric H. , Glaspy John A. , Slamon Dennis J.
Published: October 2021

It has been over three decades since anthracyclines took their place as the standard chemotherapy backbone for breast cancer in the curative setting. Though the efficacy of anthracycline chemotherapy is not debatable, potentially life-threatening and long-term risks accompany this class of agents, leading some to question their widespread use, especially when newer agents with improved therapeutic indices have become available. Critically assessing when to incorporate an anthracycline is made more relevant in an era where molecular classification is enabling not only the development of biologically targeted therapeutics but also is improving the ability to better select those who would benefit from cytotoxic agents. This comprehensive analysis will present the problem of overtreatment in early-stage breast cancer, review evidence supporting the use of anthracyclines in the pre-taxane era, analyze comparative trials evaluating taxanes with or without anthracyclines in biologically unselected and selected patient populations, and explore published work aimed at defining anthracycline-sensitive tumor types.
Critical heat flux enhancement in microgravity conditions coupling microstructured surfaces and electrostatic field
Authors: Garivalis Alekos Ioannis , Manfredini Giacomo , Saccone Giacomo , Di Marco Paolo , Kossolapov Artyom , Bucci Matteo
Published: October 2021

We run pool boiling experiments with a dielectric fluid (FC-72) on Earth and on board an ESA parabolic flight aircraft able to cancel the effects of gravity, testing both highly wetting microstructured surfaces and plain surfaces and applying an external electric field that creates gravity-mimicking body forces. Our results reveal that microstructured surfaces, known to enhance the critical heat flux on Earth, are also useful in microgravity. An enhancement of the microgravity critical heat flux on a plain surface can also be obtained using the electric field. However, the best boiling performance is achieved when these techniques are used together. The effects created by microstructured surfaces and electric fields are synergistic. They enhance the critical heat flux in microgravity conditions up to 257 kW/m2, which is even higher than the value measured on Earth on a plain surface (i.e., 168 kW/m2). These results demonstrate the potential of this synergistic approach toward very compact and efficient two-phase heat transfer systems for microgravity applications.
Adjusting vascular permeability, leukocyte infiltration, and microglial cell activation to rescue dopaminergic neurons in rodent models of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Cai Hua-Ying , Fu Xiao-Xiao , Jiang Hong , Han Shu
Published: October 2021

Animal studies have indicated that increased blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and inflammatory cell infiltration are involved during the progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD). This study used C16, a peptide that competitively binds to integrin αvβ3 and inhibits inflammatory cell infiltration, as well as angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), an endothelial growth factor crucial for blood vessel protection, to reduce inflammation and improve the central nervous system (CNS) microenvironment in murine models of PD. The combination of C16 and Ang-1 yielded better results compared to the individual drugs alone in terms of reducing dopaminergic neuronal apoptosis, ameliorating cognitive impairment, and electrophysiological dysfunction, attenuating inflammation in the CNS microenvironment, and improving the functional disability in PD mice or rats. These results suggest neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of the C16 peptide plus Ang-1 in PD.
Subventricular zone involvement is associated with worse outcome in glioma WHO grade 2 depending on molecular markers
Authors: Karschnia Philipp , Weller Jonathan , Blobner Jens , Stoecklein Veit M. , Dorostkar Mario M. , Rejeski Kai , Forbrig Robert , Niyazi Maximilian , von Baumgarten Louisa , Dietrich Jorg , Tonn Joerg-Christian , Thon Niklas
Published: October 2021

Neural stem cells within the subventricular zone were identified as cells of origin driving growth of high-grade gliomas, and anatomical involvement of the subventricular zone has been associated with an inferior clinical outcome. Whether the association between poor outcome and subventricular zone involvement also applies to glioma of lower grades is unclear. We therefore analysed a retrospective cohort of 182 patients with glioma grade 2 (according to the WHO 2016 classification) including 78 individuals (43%) with subventricular zone involvement. Patients with and without subventricular zone involvement did not differ in regard to demographics, histopathology, and molecular markers. Notably, subventricular zone involvement was a negative prognostic marker for malignant progression and overall survival on uni- and multivariate analysis. When patients were stratified according to the cIMPACT-NOW update 6, subventricular zone involvement was negatively associated with outcome in IDH-wildtype astrocytomas and 1p19q-codeleted oligodendrogliomas but not in IDH-mutant astrocytomas. Collectively, subventricular zone involvement may represent a risk factor for worse outcome in glioma WHO grade 2 depending on the molecular tumor signature. The present data confirm the relevance of molecular glioma classifications as proposed by the cIMPACT-NOW update 6. These findings warrant evaluation in prospective cohorts.
Soft robotic shell with active thermal display
Authors: Osawa Yukiko , Kinbara Yuho , Kageoka Masakazu , Iida Kenji , Kheddar Abderrahmane
Published: October 2021

Almost all robotic systems in use have hard shells, which is limiting in many ways their full potential of physical interaction with humans or their surrounding environment. Robots with soft-shell covers offer an alternative morphology which is more pleasant in both appearance and for haptic human interaction. A persisting challenge in such soft-shell robotic covers is the simultaneous realization of softness and heat-conducting properties. Such heat-conducting properties are important for enabling temperature-control of robotic covers in the range that is comfortable for human touch. The presented soft-shell robotic cover is composed of a linked two-layer structure: (1) The inner layer, with built-in pipes for water circulation, is soft and acts as a thermal-isolation layer between the cover and the robot structure, whereas (2) the outer layer, which can be patterned with a given desired texture and color, allows heat transfer from the circulating water of the inner part to the surface. Moreover, we demonstrate the ability to integrate our prototype cover with a humanoid robot equipped with capacitance sensors. This fabrication technique enables robotic cover possibilities, including tunable color, surface texture, and size, that are likely to have applications in a variety of robotic systems.
CaMKII activation in early diabetic hearts induces altered sarcoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria signaling
Authors: Federico Marilen , Zavala Maite , Vico Tamara , López Sofía , Portiansky Enrique , Alvarez Silvia , Abrille Maria Celeste Villa , Palomeque Julieta
Published: October 2021

Prediabetic myocardium, induced by fructose-rich diet (FRD), is prone to increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-Ca2+ leak and arrhythmias due to increased activity of the Ca2+/calmodulin protein kinase II (CaMKII). However, little is known about the role of SR-mitochondria microdomains, mitochondrial structure, and mitochondrial metabolisms. To address this knowledge gap we measured SR-mitochondrial proximity, intracellular Ca2+, and mitochondrial metabolism in wild type (WT) and AC3-I transgenic mice, with myocardial-targeted CaMKII inhibition, fed with control diet (CD) or with FRD. Confocal images showed significantly increased spontaneous Ca2+ release events in FRD vs. CD WT cardiomyocytes. [3H]-Ryanodine binding assay revealed higher [3H]Ry binding in FRD than CD WT hearts. O2 consumption at State 4 and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production rate were increased, while respiratory control rate (RCR) and Ca2+ retention capacity (CRC) were decreased in FRD vs. CD WT isolated mitochondria. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images showed increased proximity at the SR-mitochondria microdomains, associated with increased tethering proteins, Mfn2, Grp75, and VDAC in FRD vs. CD WT. Mitochondria diameter was decrease and roundness and density were increased in FRD vs. CD WT specimens. The fission protein, Drp1 was significantly increased while the fusion protein, Opa1 was unchanged in FRD vs. CD WT hearts. These differences were prevented in AC3-I mice. We conclude that SR-mitochondria microdomains are subject to CaMKII-dependent remodeling, involving SR-Ca2+ leak and mitochondria fission, in prediabetic mice induced by FRD. We speculate that CaMKII hyperactivity induces SR-Ca2+ leak by RyR2 activation which in turn increases mitochondria Ca2+ content due to the enhanced SR-mitochondria tethering, decreasing CRC.
Fe3O4@chitosan-tannic acid bionanocomposite as a novel nanocatalyst for the synthesis of pyranopyrazoles
Authors: Kamalzare Maryam , Ahghari Mohammad Reza , Bayat Mohammad , Maleki Ali
Published: October 2021

Recently magnetic nanocatalyst has attracted considerable attention because of its unique properties, including high performance, easy separation from the reaction mixture, and recyclability. In this study, a novel magnetic bionanocomposite was synthesized with chitosan and tannic acid as a natural material. The synthesized bionanocatalyst was characterized by essential analysis. Fe3O4@chitosan-tannic acid as a heterogeneous nanocatalyst was successfully applied to synthesize pyranopyrazole and its derivatives by a one-pot four-component reaction of malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate, hydrazine hydrate, and various aromatic aldehyde. At the end of the reaction, the nanocatalyst was separated from the reaction mixture and was reused several times with no significant decrease in its catalytic performance. Simple purification of products, the ability for recovering and reusing the nanocatalyst, eco-friendliness, high yields of pure products, mild reaction conditions, short reaction time, non-toxicity, economically affordable are some of the advantages of using the fabricated nanocatalyst in the synthesis of pyranopyrazole.
Maleic and l-tartaric acids as new anti-sprouting agents for potatoes during storage in comparison to other efficient sprout suppressants
Authors: Bhattacharya Ekta , Mandal Biswas Suparna , Pramanik Panchanan
Published: October 2021

Inhibiting sprouting of potatoes is an interesting subject needed for potato storage and industry. Sprouting degrades the quality of tuber along with releasing α-solanine and α-chaconine, which are harmful for health. Sprout suppressants, available in the market, are either costly or toxic to both health and environment. So, there is a need for developing countries to explore new sprouting suppressant compound which is cheap, non-toxic and reasonably efficient in comparison to commercial ones. We have established that simple maleic acid and l-tartaric acid are effective sprout suppressing agents. Both can hinder sprouting up to 6 weeks and 4 weeks post treatment respectively at room temperature in dark. These do not affect the quality parameters, retain the moisture content and maintain the stout appearance of the tubers along the total storage period. Thus maleic acid and l-tartaric acid would qualify as alternative, cheap, efficient sprout suppressant for potato storage and processing.
Primary stability and PES/WES evaluation for immediate implants in the aesthetic zone: a pilot clinical double-blind randomized study
Authors: Sanchez-Perez Arturo , Nicolas-Silvente Ana I. , Sanchez-Matas Carmen , Molina-García Silvia , Navarro-Cuellar Carlos , Romanos Georgios E.
Published: October 2021

The use of immediate implants in the aesthetic area is a technique widely used in modern implantology. The characteristics of the patient, the implant, and the surgical procedure used may influence the final results. The aim was to assess whether the implant design affects primary (P.S.) and secondary stability (S.S.), bone level (B.L.), and PES/WES evaluation. Twenty implants with two different designs (n = 10) were immediately placed and randomly located in the upper anterior maxilla with no grafting material. Implant-Stability-Quotient (ISQ), B.L., and Pink-Esthetic-Score/White-Esthetic-Score (PES/WES) were evaluated. Shapiro–Wilk normality test was performed to determine the sample normality, as the data did not follow a normal distribution, the Wilcoxon-Mann–Whitney test was applied (p < 0.05). ISQ was determined at placement (PS): control 59.1 (C.I.54.8–63.3); experimental 62.2(C.I.60.1–64.2) and three months after placement (SS): control 62.2.1 (C.I.53.3–71.0); experimental 67.2(C.I.65.8–68.5). The BL was measured at three months after placement: control 0.38 mm (C.I.− 0.06 to  + 0.83); experimental 0.76 mm (C.I.0.33–1.19) and at 12 months post-loading: control 0.07 mm (C.I.− 0.50–0.65); experimental 0.90 mm (C.I.0.38–1.42). PES/WES values were evaluated for the control group: 15 (C.I.12.68–17.32), and for the experimental group 15.20 (C.I.11.99–18.41). No significant differences were shown between both implant designs. A good grade of osseointegration and primary/secondary stability was achieved, as well as proper maintenance of crestal bone and adequate PES/WES scores. The criteria for selection for the ideal patient for immediate implant placement is essential.

ClinicalTrials Protocol ID: NCT04343833.
BRAF mutations may identify a clinically distinct subset of glioblastoma
Authors: McNulty Samantha N. , Schwetye Katherine E. , Ferguson Cole , Storer Chad E. , Ansstas George , Kim Albert H. , Gutmann David H. , Rubin Joshua B. , Head Richard D. , Dahiya Sonika
Published: October 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults. Prior studies examining the mutational landscape of GBM revealed recurrent alterations in genes that regulate the same growth control pathways. To this regard, ~ 40% of GBM harbor EGFR alterations, whereas BRAF variants are rare. Existing data suggests that gain-of-function mutations in these genes are mutually exclusive. This study was designed to explore the clinical, pathological, and molecular differences between EGFR- and BRAF-mutated GBM. We reviewed retrospective clinical data from 89 GBM patients referred for molecular testing between November 2012 and December 2015. Differences in tumor mutational profile, location, histology, and survival outcomes were compared in patients with EGFR- versus BRAF-mutated tumors, and microarray data from The Cancer Genome Atlas was used to assess differential gene expression between the groups. Individuals with BRAF-mutant tumors were typically younger and survived longer relative to those with EGFR-mutant tumors, even in the absence of targeted treatments. BRAF-mutant tumors lacked distinct histomorphology but exhibited unique localization in the brain, typically arising adjacent to the lateral ventricles. Compared to EGFR- and IDH1-mutant tumors, BRAF-mutant tumors showed increased expression of genes related to a trophoblast-like phenotype, specifically HLA-G and pregnancy specific glycoproteins, that have been implicated in invasion and immune evasion. Taken together, these observations suggest a distinct clinical presentation, brain location, and gene expression profile for BRAF-mutant tumors. Pending further study, this may prove useful in the stratification and management of GBM.
Spatio-temporal analysis and prediction of malaria cases using remote sensing meteorological data in Diébougou health district, Burkina Faso, 2016–2017
Authors: Bationo Cédric S. , Gaudart Jean , Dieng Sokhna , Cissoko Mady , Taconet Paul , Ouedraogo Boukary , Somé Anthony , Zongo Issaka , Soma Dieudonné D. , Tougri Gauthier , Dabiré Roch K. , Koffi Alphonsine , Pennetier Cédric , Moiroux Nicolas
Published: October 2021

Malaria control and prevention programs are more efficient and cost-effective when they target hotspots or select the best periods of year to implement interventions. This study aimed to identify the spatial distribution of malaria hotspots at the village level in Diébougou health district, Burkina Faso, and to model the temporal dynamics of malaria cases as a function of meteorological conditions and of the distance between villages and health centres (HCs). Case data for 27 villages were collected in 13 HCs. Meteorological data were obtained through remote sensing. Two synthetic meteorological indicators (SMIs) were created to summarize meteorological variables. Spatial hotspots were detected using the Kulldorf scanning method. A General Additive Model was used to determine the time lag between cases and SMIs and to evaluate the effect of SMIs and distance to HC on the temporal evolution of malaria cases. The multivariate model was fitted with data from the epidemic year to predict the number of cases in the following outbreak. Overall, the incidence rate in the area was 429.13 cases per 1000 person-year with important spatial and temporal heterogeneities. Four spatial hotspots, involving 7 of the 27 villages, were detected, for an incidence rate of 854.02 cases per 1000 person-year. The hotspot with the highest risk (relative risk = 4.06) consisted of a single village, with an incidence rate of 1750.75 cases per 1000 person-years. The multivariate analysis found greater variability in incidence between HCs than between villages linked to the same HC. The time lag that generated the better predictions of cases was 9 weeks for SMI1 (positively correlated with precipitation variables) and 16 weeks for SMI2 (positively correlated with temperature variables. The prediction followed the overall pattern of the time series of reported cases and predicted the onset of the following outbreak with a precision of less than 3 weeks. This analysis of malaria cases in Diébougou health district, Burkina Faso, provides a powerful prospective method for identifying and predicting high-risk areas and high-transmission periods that could be targeted in future malaria control and prevention campaigns.
Impact of de-ionized water on changes in porosity and permeability of shales mineralogy due to clay-swelling
Authors: Zhang Di , Meegoda Jay N. , da Silva Bruno M. Goncalves , Hu Liming
Published: October 2021

Hydraulic fracturing is widely applied for economical gas production from shale reservoirs. Still, the swelling of the clay micro/nano pores due to retained fluid from hydraulic fracturing causes a gradual reduction of gas production. Four different gas-bearing shale samples with different mineralogical characteristics were investigated to study the expected shale swelling and reduction in gas permeability due to hydraulic fracturing. To simulate shale softening, these shale samples were immersed in deionized (DI) water heated to 100 °C temperature and subjected to 8 MPa pressure in a laboratory reactor for 72 hours to simulate shale softening. The low-temperature nitrogen adsorption and density measurements were performed on the original and treated shale to determine the changes in micro and nano pore structure. The micro and nano pore structures changed, and the porosity decreased after shale treatment. The porosity decreased by 4% for clayey shale, while for well-cemented shale the porosity only decreased by 0.52%. The findings showed that the initial mineralogical composition of shale plays a significant role in the change of micro and nano pores and the pore structure alteration due to retained fluid from hydraulic fracturing. A pore network model is used to simulate the permeability of shale used in this study. To define pore structure properties, specific factors such as porosity, pore size, pore throat distribution, and coordination number were used. Furthermore, the anisotropy characteristics of shale were integrated into the model via a coordination number ratio. Finally, the change in permeability due to shale softening was determined and compared with untreated with the progress of shale softening. The simulation showed that the permeability of Longmaxi shale could decrease from 3.82E–16 m2 to 4.71E–17 m2 after treatment.
Clinical phenotypes from fatal cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by pneumonia
Authors: Ichikado Kazuya , Kawamura Kodai , Johkoh Takeshi , Fujimoto Kiminori , Shintani Ayumi , Hashimoto Satoru , Eguchi Yoshitomo , Yasuda Yuko , Anan Keisuke , Shingu Naoki , Sakata Yoshihiko , Hisanaga Junpei , Nitawaki Tatsuya , Iio Miwa , Sekido Yuko , Nishiyama Kenta , Nakamura Kazunori , Suga Moritaka , Ichiyasu Hidenori , Sakagami Takuro
Published: October 2021

There have been no report of objective clinical characteristics or prognostic factors that predict fatal outcome of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) since the Berlin definition was published. The aim of this study is to identify clinically available predictors that distinguish between two phenotypes of fatal ARDS due to pneumonia. In total, 104 cases of Japanese patients with pneumonia-induced ARDS were extracted from our prospectively collected database. Fatal cases were divided into early (< 7 days after diagnosis) and late (≥ 7 days) death groups, and clinical variables and prognostic factors were statistically evaluated. Of the 50 patients who died within 180 days, 18 (36%) and 32 (64%) were in the early (median 2 days, IQR [1, 5]) and late (median 16 days, IQR [13, 29]) death groups, respectively. According to multivariate regression analyses, the APACHE II score (HR 1.25, 95%CI 1.12–1.39, p < 0.001) and the disseminated intravascular coagulation score (HR 1.54, 95%CI 1.15–2.04, p = 0.003) were independent prognostic factors for early death. In contrast, late death was associated with high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) score indicating early fibroproliferation (HR 1.28, 95%CI 1.13–1.42, p < 0.001) as well as the disseminated intravascular coagulation score (HR 1.24, 95%CI 1.01–1.52, p = 0.039). The extent of fibroproliferation on HRCT, and the APACHE II scores along with coagulation abnormalities, should be considered for use in predictive enrichment and personalized medicine for patients with ARDS due to pneumonia.
Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth attenuate mechanical allodynia in mice through distinct from the siglec-9/MCP-1-mediated tissue-repairing mechanism
Authors: Hayashi Yoshinori , Kato Hiroki , Nonaka Kazuaki , Nakanishi Hiroshi
Published: October 2021

The effects of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) on mechanical allodynia were examined in mice. A single intravenous injection of SHED and conditioned medium from SHED (SHED-CM) through the left external jugular vein significantly reversed the established mechanical allodynia induced by spinal nerve transection at 6 days after injection. SHED or SHED-CM significantly decreased the mean numbers of activating transcription factor 3-positive neurons and macrophages in the ipsilateral side of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) at 20 days after spinal nerve transection. SHED or SHED-CM also suppressed activation of microglia and astrocytes in the ipsilateral side of the dorsal spinal cord. A single intravenous injection of secreted ectodomain of sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin-9 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 had no effect on the established mechanical allodynia, whereas a single intravenous injection of protein component(s) contained in SHED-CM with molecular weight of between 30 and 50 kDa reversed the pain. Therefore, it may be concluded that protein component(s) with molecular mass of 30–50 kDa secreted by SHED could protect and/or repair DRG neurons damaged by nerve transection, thereby ameliorating mechanical allodynia.
Respiratory viral infections in pragmatically selected adults in intensive care units
Authors: Cia Cong-Tat , Lin I-Ting , Lee Jen-Chieh , Tsai Huey-Pin , Wang Jen-Ren , Ko Wen-Chien
Published: October 2021

Respiratory viruses can be detected in 18.3 to 48.9% of critically ill adults with severe respiratory tract infections (RTIs). The present study aims to assess the clinical significance of respiratory viruses in pragmatically selected adults in medical intensive care unit patients and to identify factors associated with viral respiratory viral tract infections (VRTIs). We conducted a prospective study on critically ill adults with suspected RTIs without recognized respiratory pathogens. Viral cultures with monoclonal antibody identification, in-house real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for influenza virus, and FilmArray respiratory panel were used to detect viral pathogens. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with VRTIs. Sixty-four (40.5%) of the included 158 critically ill adults had respiratory viruses detected in their respiratory specimens. The commonly detected viruses included influenza virus (20), followed by human rhinovirus/enterovirus (11), respiratory syncitial virus (9), human metapneumovirus (9), human parainfluenza viruses (8), human adenovirus (7), and human coronaviruses (2). The FilmArray respiratory panel detected respiratory viruses in 54 (34.6%) patients, but showed negative results for seven of 13 patients with influenza A/H3 infection. In the multivariable logistic regression model, patient characters associated with VRTIs included those aged < 65 years, household contact with individuals with upper RTI, the presence of fever, cough with sputum production, and sore throat. Respiratory viruses were not uncommonly detected in the pragmatically selected adults with critical illness. The application of multiplex PCR testing for respiratory viruses in selected patient population is a practical strategy, and the viral detection rate could be further improved by the patient characters recognized in this study.
Quantifying the role of ocean coupling in Arctic amplification and sea-ice loss over the 21st century
Authors: Chemke Rei , Polvani Lorenzo M. , Kay Jennifer E. , Orbe Clara
Published: October 2021

The enhanced warming of the Arctic, relative to other parts of the Earth, a phenomenon known as Arctic amplification, is one of the most striking features of climate change, and has important climatic impacts for the entire Northern Hemisphere. Several mechanisms are believed to be responsible for Arctic amplification; however, a quantitative understanding of their relative importance is still missing. Here, using ensembles of model integrations, we quantify the contribution of ocean coupling, both its thermodynamic and dynamic components, to Arctic amplification over the 20th and 21st centuries. We show that ocean coupling accounts for ~80% of the amplification by 2100. In particular, we show that thermodynamic coupling is responsible for future amplification and sea-ice loss as it overcomes the effect of dynamic coupling which reduces the amplification and sea-ice loss by ~35%. Our results demonstrate the utility of targeted numerical experiments to quantify the role of specific mechanisms in Arctic amplification, for better constraining climate projections.
Comprehensive RNA analysis of CSF reveals a role for CEACAM6 in lung cancer leptomeningeal metastases
Authors: Li Yingmei , Polyak Dina , Lamsam Layton , Connolly Ian David , Johnson Eli , Khoeur Lina Khav , Andersen Stephanie , Granucci Monica , Stanley Geoff , Liu Boxiang , Nagpal Seema , Hayden Gephart Melanie
Published: October 2021

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) metastatic to the brain leptomeninges is rapidly fatal, cannot be biopsied, and cancer cells in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are few; therefore, available tissue samples to develop effective treatments are severely limited. This study aimed to converge single-cell RNA-seq and cell-free RNA (cfRNA) analyses to both diagnose NSCLC leptomeningeal metastases (LM), and to use gene expression profiles to understand progression mechanisms of NSCLC in the brain leptomeninges. NSCLC patients with suspected LM underwent withdrawal of CSF via lumbar puncture. Four cytology-positive CSF samples underwent single-cell capture (n = 197 cells) by microfluidic chip. Using robust principal component analyses, NSCLC LM cell gene expression was compared to immune cells. Massively parallel qPCR (9216 simultaneous reactions) on human CSF cfRNA samples compared the relative gene expression of patients with NSCLC LM (n = 14) to non-tumor controls (n = 7). The NSCLC-associated gene, CEACAM6, underwent in vitro validation in NSCLC cell lines for involvement in pathologic behaviors characteristic of LM. NSCLC LM gene expression revealed by single-cell RNA-seq was also reflected in CSF cfRNA of cytology-positive patients. Tumor-associated cfRNA (e.g., CEACAM6, MUC1) was present in NSCLC LM patients’ CSF, but not in controls (CEACAM6 detection sensitivity 88.24% and specificity 100%). Cell migration in NSCLC cell lines was directly proportional to CEACAM6 expression, suggesting a role in disease progression. NSCLC-associated cfRNA is detectable in the CSF of patients with LM, and corresponds to the gene expression profile of NSCLC LM cells. CEACAM6 contributes significantly to NSCLC migration, a hallmark of LM pathophysiology.
Raman microscopy-based quantification of the physical properties of intracellular lipids
Authors: Uematsu Masaaki , Shimizu Takao
Published: October 2021

The physical properties of lipids, such as viscosity, are homeostatically maintained in cells and are intimately involved in physiological roles. Measurement of the physical properties of plasma membranes has been achieved primarily through chemical or genetically encoded fluorescent probes. However, since most probes target plasma membranes, physical properties of lipids in intracellular organelles, including lipid droplets (LDs) are yet to be analyzed. Here, we present a novel Raman microscopy-based approach for quantifying the physical properties of intracellular lipids under deuterium-labeled fatty acid treatment conditions. Focusing on the fact that Raman spectra of carbon-deuterium vibration are altered depending on the surrounding lipid species, we quantitatively represented the physical properties of lipids as the gauche/trans conformational ratio of the introduced labeled fatty acids, which can be used as an indicator of viscosity. Intracellular Raman imaging revealed that the gauche/trans ratio of cytosolic regions was robustly preserved against perturbations attempting to alter the lipid composition. This was likely due to LDs functioning as a buffer against excess gauche/trans ratio, beyond its traditional role as an energy storage organelle. Our novel approach enables the observation of the physical properties of organelle lipids, which is difficult to perform with conventional probes, and is useful for quantitative assessment of the subcellular lipid environment.
A bilayered skin substitute developed using an eggshell membrane crosslinked gelatin–chitosan cryogel
Authors: Saha Rituparna , Patkar Shivali , Maniar Drishti , Pillai Mamatha M. , Tayalia Prakriti
Published: October 2021

A bilayered skin substitute has been developed using eggshell membrane as a physical crosslinker for gelatin–chitosan cryogels. It induces re-epithelialization of wounds and promotes formation of skin appendages in rats.
An oxygen-enriched thermosensitive hydrogel for the relief of a hypoxic tumor microenvironment and enhancement of radiotherapy
Authors: Yang Xiaowei , Wang Yaoben , Mao Tianjiao , Wang Yang , Liu Ruili , Yu Lin , Ding Jiandong
Published: October 2021

An injectable and thermosensitive composite hydrogel was prepared to deliver exogenous oxygen to solid tumors for the relief of a hypoxic tumor microenvironment and improvement of radiotherapeutic efficacy as a potent radiosensitizer.
Anion-driven supramolecular modulation of spin-crossover properties in mononuclear iron(iii) Schiff-base complexes
Authors: Yu Zong-Mei , Zhao Sheng-Ze , Wang Yu-Ting , Xu Peng-Yu , Qin Chun-Yan , Li Yong-Hua , Zhou Xin-Hui , Wang Shi
Published: October 2021

A series of iron(iii) complexes [Fe(5-F-sal-N-1,4,7,10)]Y (Y = anion) have been studied in detail which gave the understanding of the influence of anion effects and intermolecular supramolecular structures on their spin crossover properties.
Liposomal formulations of anticancer copper(ii) thiosemicarbazone complexes
Authors: Mathuber Marlene , Hager Sonja , Keppler Bernhard K. , Heffeter Petra , Kowol Christian R.
Published: October 2021

Liposomal formulations of copper(ii) complexes of α-N-heterocyclic thiosemicarbazones (triapine and COTI-2) were synthesized, characterized and biologically investigated, with the aim to enhance their plasma half-life time and tumor accumulation.
Intramolecular attack on coordinated nitriles: metallacycle intermediates in catalytic hydration and beyond
Authors: Glueck David S.
Published: October 2021

Intramolecular S-OH or P-OH attack on a coordinated nitrile yields a metallacycle in the proposed mechanism of nitrile hydratase and related synthetic catalysts.
An IMDAF approach to annellated 1,4:5,8-diepoxynaphthalenes and their metathesis reaction leading to novel scaffolds displaying an antiproliferative activity toward cancer cells
Authors: Kvyatkovskaya Elizaveta A. , Borisova Kseniya K. , Epifanova Polina P. , Senin Aleksey A. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Grigoriev Mikhail S. , Bunev Alexander S. , Gasanov Rovshan E. , Polyanskii Kirill B. , Zubkov Fedor I.
Published: October 2021

A 3,5a-epoxyfuro[2,3,4-de]isoquinoline scaffold, the product of ROCM of 1,4:5,8-diepoxynaphthalenes, is a promising antiproliferative agent toward breast and prostate human cancer cell lines.
Connecting the complex microstructure of LDPE to its rheology and processing properties via a combined fractionation and modelling approach
Authors: Zentel Kristina Maria , Eselem Bungu Paul Severin , Degenkolb Jonas , Pasch Harald , Busch Markus
Published: October 2021

The complex microstructure of LDPE regarding branching and molecular weight was correlated to its rheology and processing properties via preparative fractionation and modelling.
Study of the influence of 2.5% Mg2+ insertion in the B-site of La0.8Ca0.1Pb0.1FeO3 on its structural, electrical and dielectric properties
Authors: Issaoui H. , Benali A. , Issaoui F. , Dhahri E. , Costa B. F. O. , Graca M. P. F. , Valente M. A. , Bouazizi Mohamed Lamjed
Published: October 2021

This work involves the synthesis and study of physical properties of the La0.8Ca0.1Pb0.1Fe0.975Mg0.025O3 compound, which has been characterized by various experimental techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, SEM and complex impedance spectroscopy.
Systematic investigation of CO2 : NH3 ice mixtures using mid-IR and VUV spectroscopy – part 2: electron irradiation and thermal processing
Authors: James Rachel L. , Ioppolo Sergio , Hoffmann Søren V. , Jones Nykola C. , Mason Nigel J. , Dawes Anita
Published: October 2021

The stoichiometric mixing ratio of CO2 : NH3 ice mixtures determines the electron irradiation products at 20 K and the composition of residue material formed after thermal processing.
Development of rapid and selective epoxidation of α-pinene using single-step addition of H2O2in an organic solvent-free process
Authors: Mukhtar Gunam Resul Mohamad Faiz , Rehman Abdul , López Fernández Ana María , Eze Valentine C. , Harvey Adam P.
Published: October 2021

Products obtained from the oxidation of α-pinene with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the presence of tungsten-based polyoxometalates (α-pinene 1, α-pinene oxide 2, pinanediol 3, campholenic aldehyde 4, sobrerol 5, verbenol 6 and verbenone 7).
Scaling law for the kinetics of water imbibition in polydisperse foams
Authors: Tsuritani Kanoko , Inasawa Susumu
Published: October 2021

Horizontal imbibition of water in foams is scaled well by a simple mathematical expression that considers t1/2 dependence and changes in volume fraction of water in foams.
Shape-shifting thermoreversible diblock copolymer nano-objects via RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization of 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate
Authors: Deane Oliver J. , Jennings James , Armes Steven P.
Published: October 2021

RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization of 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate (HBA) affords shape-shifting thermoresponsive diblock copolymer nano-objects. 1H NMR studies suggest that such behavior involves uniform plasticization of the PHBA block.
Co-revolving topological defects in a nematic liquid crystal
Authors: Susser Adam L. , Kralj Samo , Rosenblatt Charles
Published: October 2021

A patterned surface defect of strengthm= +1 and its associated disclination lines can decompose into a pair of surface defects and disclination lines of strengthm= +1/2. Black bar represents 10 μm.
Tuning the electrochemical properties by anionic substitution of Li-rich antiperovskite (Li2Fe)S1−xSexO cathodes for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Mohamed M. A. A. , Gorbunov Mikhail V. , Valldor Martin , Hampel Silke , Gräßler Nico , Mikhailova Daria
Published: October 2021

A tunable redox potential and electrochemical performance are realized by anionic substitution of S by Se for the Li-rich antiperovskite (Li2Fe)SO cathode.
A simple, rapid and scalable synthesis approach for ultra-small size transition metal selenides with efficient water oxidation performance
Authors: Shi Yue , Zhang Dan , Miao Hongfu , Zhang Wen , Wu Xueke , Wang Zuochao , Li Hongdong , Zhan Tianrong , Chen Xilei , Lai Jianping , Wang Lei
Published: October 2021

A simple, rapid and scalable microwave method for preparing ultra-small size transition metal selenides to boost water oxidation.
Complex cellular environments imaged by SERS nanoprobes using sugars as an all-in-one vector
Authors: Gomes Maria C. , Chen Juan , Cunha Angela , Trindade Tito , Zheng Gang , Tomé João P. C.
Published: October 2021

Raman spectroscopy coupled with confocal microscopy offers an alternative bioimaging technique overcoming limitations associated with sensitivity, tissue penetration and image resolution.
Tuning the aggregation behaviour of BN-coronene diimides with imide substituents and their performance in devices (OLEDs and OFETs)
Authors: Hoffmann Jonas , Geffroy Bernard , Jaques Emmanuel , Hissler Muriel , Staubitz Anne
Published: October 2021

The lateral CC-π-extension of perylene diimides (PDIs) to coronene diimides (CDIs) leads to undesired effects such as the decrease of the absorption and a hypsochromic shift. This could be overcome by lateral BN-annulation of PDIs to form superior BNCDIs.
Cross‐scale feature fusion connection for a YOLO detector
Authors: Ruan Zhongling , Wang Hao , Cao Jianzhong , Zhang Hongbo
Published: October 2021

Multi‐scale feature fusion is often used to address the issue of scale variations in object detection. However, most of the proposed network architectures only combine the features of two adjacent levels sequentially, so the first fusion nodes in both top‐down and bottom‐up pathways must be blank nodes that only have one input with no feature fusion. In this work, cross‐scale feature fusion connection (CFFC) is proposed which aims to enhance the entire feature hierarchy by propagating the features of each level more efficiently. The proposed method reuses and aggregates all the features of other scales to the blank nodes in both top‐down and bottom‐up pathways. Furthermore, the authors remove the 1 × 1 convolutional layer and replace the shortcut with concatenation before fusing multiple features. These concatenated feature maps are then supervised by the channel attention block at the fusion nodes. This modification allows the network to learn the important degree of each level in concatenated feature maps along the channel dimension. It is also observed that the proposed method alleviates the inconsistency in feature pyramids with fewer parameters. The performance of a YOLO object detector equipped with the proposed method on the COCO test‐dev 2017 is evaluated. The results show that the proposed method outperforms other architectures presented in the literature.