bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strikingly distinctive NH3-SCR behavior over Cu-SSZ-13 in the presence of NO2
Authors: Shan Yulong , He Guangzhi , Du Jinpeng , Sun Yu , Liu Zhongqi , Fu Yu , Liu Fudong , Shi Xiaoyan , Yu Yunbo , He Hong
Published: August 2022

Commercial Cu-exchanged small-pore SSZ-13 (Cu-SSZ-13) zeolite catalysts are highly active for the standard selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO with NH3. However, their activity is unexpectedly inhibited in the presence of NO2 at low temperatures. This is strikingly distinct from the NO2-accelerated NOx conversion over other typical SCR catalyst systems. Here, we combine kinetic experiments, in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations to obtain direct evidence that under reaction conditions, strong oxidation by NO2 forces Cu ions to exist mainly as CuII species (fw-Cu2+ and NH3-solvated CuII with high CNs), which impedes the mobility of Cu species. The SCR reaction occurring at these CuII sites with weak mobility shows a higher energy barrier than that of the standard SCR reaction on dynamic binuclear sites. Moreover, the NO2-involved SCR reaction tends to occur at the Brønsted acid sites (BASs) rather than the CuII sites. This work clearly explains the strikingly distinctive selective catalytic behavior in this zeolite system.
Cytosine base editing systems with minimized off-target effect and molecular size
Authors: Li Ang , Mitsunobu Hitoshi , Yoshioka Shin , Suzuki Takahisa , Kondo Akihiko , Nishida Keiji
Published: August 2022

Cytosine base editing enables the installation of specific point mutations without double-strand breaks in DNA and is advantageous for various applications such as gene therapy, but further reduction of off-target risk and development of efficient delivery methods are desired. Here we show structure-based rational engineering of the cytosine base editing system Target-AID to minimize its off-target effect and molecular size. By intensive and careful truncation, DNA-binding domain of its deaminase PmCDA1 is eliminated and additional mutations are introduced to restore enzyme function. The resulting tCDA1EQ is effective in N-terminal fusion (AID-2S) or inlaid architecture (AID-3S) with Cas9, showing minimized RNA-mediated editing and gRNA-dependent/independent DNA off-targets, as assessed in human cells. Combining with the smaller Cas9 ortholog system (SaCas9), a cytosine base editing system is created that is within the size limit of AAV vector.
Searching for ultra-light bosons and constraining black hole spin distributions with stellar tidal disruption events
Authors: Du Peizhi , Egaña-Ugrinovic Daniel , Essig Rouven , Fragione Giacomo , Perna Rosalba
Published: August 2022

Stars that pass close to the supermassive black holes located in the center of galaxies can be disrupted by tidal forces, leading to flares that are observed as bright transient events in sky surveys. The rate for these events to occur depends on the black hole spins, which in turn can be affected by ultra-light bosons due to superradiance. We perform a detailed analysis of these effects and show that searches for stellar tidal disruptions have the potential to uncover the existence of ultra-light bosons. In particular, we find that upcoming stellar tidal disruption rate measurements by the Vera Rubin Observatory’s Legacy Survey of Space and Time can be used to either discover or rule out bosons with masses ranging from 10−20 to 10−18 eV. Our analysis also indicates that these measurements may be used to constrain a variety of supermassive black hole spin distributions and determine if close-to maximal spins are preferred.
Electronic gap characterization at mesoscopic scale via scanning probe microscopy under ambient conditions
Authors: Li Dian , Wang Xiong , Mo Xiaoyong , Tse Edmund C. M. , Cui Xiaodong
Published: August 2022

Electronic gaps play an important role in the electric and optical properties of materials. Although various experimental techniques, such as scanning tunnelling spectroscopy and optical or photoemission spectroscopy, are normally used to perform electronic band structure characterizations, it is still challenging to measure the electronic gap at the nanoscale under ambient conditions. Here we report a scanning probe microscopic technique to characterize the electronic gap with nanometre resolution at room temperature and ambient pressure. The technique probes the electronic gap by monitoring the changes of the local quantum capacitance via the Coulomb force at a mesoscopic scale. We showcase this technique by characterizing several 2D semiconductors and van der Waals heterostructures under ambient conditions.
Magnetic phase separation in microgravity
Authors: Romero-Calvo Álvaro , Akay Ömer , Schaub Hanspeter , Brinkert Katharina
Published: August 2022

The absence of strong buoyancy forces severely complicates the management of multiphase flows in microgravity. Different types of space systems, ranging from in-space propulsion to life support, are negatively impacted by this effect. Multiple approaches have been developed to achieve phase separation in microgravity, whereas they usually lack the robustness, efficiency, or stability that is desirable in most applications. Complementary to existing methods, the use of magnetic polarization has been recently proposed to passively induce phase separation in electrolytic cells and other two-phase flow devices. This article illustrates the dia- and paramagnetic phase separation mechanism on MilliQ water, an aqueous MnSO4 solution, lysogeny broth, and olive oil using air bubbles in a series of drop tower experiments. Expressions for the magnetic terminal bubble velocity are derived and validated and several wall–bubble and multi-bubble magnetic interactions are reported. Ultimately, the analysis demonstrates the feasibility of the dia- and paramagnetic phase separation approach, providing a key advancement for the development of future space systems.
Characterization of extracellular vesicles from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Authors: Kurata Atsushi , Kiyohara Shogo , Imai Tomoya , Yamasaki-Yashiki Shino , Zaima Nobuhiro , Moriyama Tatsuya , Kishimoto Noriaki , Uegaki Koichi
Published: August 2022

We investigated the characteristics and functionalities of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (previously Lactobacillus plantarum) towards host immune cells. L. plantarum produces EVs that have a cytoplasmic membrane and contain cytoplasmic metabolites, membrane and cytoplasmic proteins, and small RNAs, but not bacterial cell wall components, namely, lipoteichoic acid and peptidoglycan. In the presence of L. plantarum EVs, Raw264 cells inducibly produced the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6, the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and IF-γ and IL-12, which are involved in the differentiation of naive T-helper cells into T-helper type 1 cells. IgA was produced by PP cells following the addition of EVs. Therefore, L. plantarum EVs activated innate and acquired immune responses. L. plantarum EVs are recognized by Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), which activates NF-κB, but not by other TLRs or NOD-like receptors. N-acylated peptides from lipoprotein19180 (Lp19180) in L. plantarum EVs were identified as novel TLR2 ligands. Therefore, L. plantarum induces an immunostimulation though the TLR2 recognition of the N-acylated amino acid moiety of Lp19180 in EVs. Additionally, we detected a large amount of EVs in the rat gastrointestinal tract for the first time, suggesting that EVs released by probiotics function as a modulator of intestinal immunity.
A real-time object detection model for orchard pests based on improved YOLOv4 algorithm
Authors: Pang Haitong , Zhang Yitao , Cai Weiming , Li Bin , Song Ruiyin
Published: August 2022

Accurate and efficient real-time detection of orchard pests was essential and could improve the economic benefits of the fruit industry. The orchard pest dataset, PestImgData, was built through a series of methods such as web crawler, specimen image collection and data augmentation. PestImgData was composed of two parts, PestImgData-1 and PestImgData-2. It contained 24,796 color images and covered 7 types of orchard pests. Based on the PestImgData and YOLOv4 algorithm, this paper conducted a preliminary study on the real-time object detection of orchard pests from 4 perspectives: transfer learning, activation function, anchor box, and batch normalization. In addition, this paper also visualized the feature learning ability of the detection models. On the basis of the above research, three improvement measures were adopted: the post-processing NMS algorithm was upgraded to DIoU-NMS, the training method was upgraded to 2-time finetuning training and the training data was enhanced. The performance of the improved model, F-D-YOLOv4-PEST, had been effectively improved. The mean average precision of F-D-YOLOv4-PEST was 92.86%, and the detection time of a single picture was 12.22 ms, which could meet the real-time detection requirements. In addition, in the case of high overlap area or high density, F-D-YOLOv4-PEST still maintained good performance. In the testing process of the laboratory and the greenhouse, including the wired network and the wireless network, F-D-YOLOv4-PEST could locate and classify pests as expected. This research could provide technical reference for the intelligent identification of agricultural pests based on deep learning.
A single-cell based precision medicine approach using glioblastoma patient-specific models
Authors: Park James H. , Feroze Abdullah H. , Emerson Samuel N. , Mihalas Anca B. , Keene C. Dirk , Cimino Patrick J. , de Lomana Adrian Lopez Garcia , Kannan Kavya , Wu Wei-Ju , Turkarslan Serdar , Baliga Nitin S. , Patel Anoop P.
Published: August 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a heterogeneous tumor made up of cell states that evolve over time. Here, we modeled tumor evolutionary trajectories during standard-of-care treatment using multi-omic single-cell analysis of a primary tumor sample, corresponding mouse xenografts subjected to standard of care therapy, and recurrent tumor at autopsy. We mined the multi-omic data with single-cell SYstems Genetics Network AnaLysis (scSYGNAL) to identify a network of 52 regulators that mediate treatment-induced shifts in xenograft tumor-cell states that were also reflected in recurrence. By integrating scSYGNAL-derived regulatory network information with transcription factor accessibility deviations derived from single-cell ATAC-seq data, we developed consensus networks that modulate cell state transitions across subpopulations of primary and recurrent tumor cells. Finally, by matching targeted therapies to active regulatory networks underlying tumor evolutionary trajectories, we provide a framework for applying single-cell-based precision medicine approaches to an individual patient in a concurrent, adjuvant, or recurrent setting.
Rapid 20th century warming reverses 900-year cooling in the Gulf of Maine
Authors: Whitney Nina M. , Wanamaker Alan D. , Ummenhofer Caroline C. , Johnson Beverly J. , Cresswell-Clay Nathaniel , Kreutz Karl J.
Published: August 2022

The Gulf of Maine, located in the western North Atlantic, has undergone recent, rapid ocean warming but the lack of long-term, instrumental records hampers the ability to put these significant hydrographic changes into context. Here we present multiple 300-year long geochemical records (oxygen, nitrogen, and previously published radiocarbon isotopes) measured in absolutely-dated Arctica islandica shells from the western Gulf of Maine. These records, in combination with climate model simulations, suggest that the Gulf of Maine underwent a long-term cooling over most of the last 1000 years, driven primarily by volcanic forcing and North Atlantic ocean dynamics. This cooling trend was reversed by warming beginning in the late 1800s, likely due to increased atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations and changes in western North Atlantic circulation. The climate model simulations suggest that the warming over the last century was more rapid than almost any other 100-year period in the last 1000 years in the region.
Silver loaded biodegradable carboxymethyl chitin films with long-lasting antibacterial activity for infected wound healing
Authors: Lv Siyao , Jiang Xulin
Published: August 2022

Novel Ag+-loaded biodegradable carboxymethyl chitin films prepared by a regeneration process without using any crosslinkers exhibited high strength for infected wound healing.
A novel thymidine phosphorylase to synthesize (halogenated) anticancer and antiviral nucleoside drugs in continuous flow
Authors: Benítez-Mateos Ana I. , Klein Calvin , Roura Padrosa David , Paradisi Francesca
Published: August 2022

A novel thymidine phosphorylase from H. elongata has been characterized, immobilized, and applied in a flow reactor. With this biocatalyst, four halogenated nucleoside analogues with anticancer and antiviral properties were produced in high yields.
Neural network embeddings based similarity search method for atomistic systems
Authors: Yang Yilin , Liu Mingjie , Kitchin John R.
Published: August 2022

With the popularity of machine learning growing in the field of catalysis there are increasing numbers of catalyst databases becoming available.
Water reduction on the facets of Fe(OH)2: an experimental and DFT study
Authors: Song Han , Ou Xinwen , Wang Mengye , Zhang Yan , Lin Zhang
Published: August 2022

The capacity of Fe(OH)2 to reduce H2O was limited by the predominant distribution of inert (001) facet and high energy barrier of H2O dissociation on acitive (100) facet.
The role of wheat embryo globulin nutrients in improving cognitive dysfunction in AD rats
Authors: Zheng Shuainan , Pan Long , Hou Jianguang , Liao Aimei , Hou Yinchen , Yu Guanghai , Li Xiaoxiao , Yuan Yongjian , Dong Yuqi , Zhao Penghui , Zhang Jie , Hu Zheyuan , Hui Ming , Cao Jian , Huang Ji-Hong
Published: August 2022

Neuroinflammation and intestinal microbiota cause pathological progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), leading to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
Phosphorus-modified Pt@Cu surfaces for efficient electrocatalysis of hydrogen evolution
Authors: Tan Yeshu , Liu Longxiang , Zhang Liquan , Zhao Siyu , Brett Dan J. L. , Shearing Paul R. , Bai Ying , Parkin Ivan P. , He Guanjie
Published: August 2022

Phosphorus-modified Pt@Cu (Pt/P@Cu) was fabricated through a one-step method as a self-standing electrocatalyst, leading to increased surface activity sites, reduced charge transfer resistance and enhanced HER performance in neutral medium.
Predicting mixing free energy using mutual ghosting
Authors: Shetty Shreya , Agarwala Puja , Gomez Enrique D. , Milner Scott T.
Published: August 2022

Weakening interactions in a miscible blend induces demixing; the corresponding thermodynamic work can be integrated, and the free energy of the resulting interface measured. Combining these results gives the mixing free energy.
A cascade indazolone-directed Ir(iii)- and Rh(iii)-catalyzed C(sp2)–H functionalization/[4 + 2] annulation of 1-arylindazolones with sulfoxonium ylides to access chemically divergent 8H-indazolo [1,2-a]cinnolines
Authors: Zheng Yi-Chuan , Shu Bing , Zeng Yao-Fu , Chen Shao-Yong , Song Jia-Lin , Liu Yan-Zhi , Xiao Lin , Liu Xu-Ge , Zhang Xuanxuan , Zhang Shang-Shi
Published: August 2022

An indazolone-directed chemoselective synthesis of 8H-indazolo [1,2-a]cinnolines has been realized via a cascade Cp*Ir(iii)- and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H activation/cyclization reaction of 1-arylindazolones with sulfoxonium ylides.
Stereoselective synthesis of chiral sultam-fused dihydropyridinones via photopromoted NHC catalyzed [4 + 2] annulation
Authors: Chen Yangxu , Shi Bai , Yin Huiping , Liu Yinping , Yu Chenxia , Zhang Kai , Li Tuanjie , Yao Changsheng
Published: August 2022

A photopromoted NHC catalyzed asymmetric [4+2] annulation of saccharine-derived azadienes and α-diazoketones was developed, affording the corresponding sultam-fused dihydropyridinones efficiently (up to 80% yield, 99% ee and >20 : 1 d.r.).
Construction of pyrazole fused spiroketals by a (3 + 2) annulation reaction
Authors: Zhang Wande , Wei Xingfu , Wang Yue , Huang Yue , Nawaz Shah , Qu Jingping , Wang Baomin
Published: August 2022

A stereoselective (3 + 2) annulation process between 4-bromo pyrazolones and benzofuran-derived azadienes was developed. A series of novel pyrazole fused spiroketals were synthesized in the presence of triethylamine.
Palladium-catalyzed carbonylative synthesis of indole-3-carboxamides from 2-ethynylanilines and nitroarenes
Authors: Zhang Jiangjie , Wang Shangyuan , Wang Jian-Shu , Ying Jun , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: August 2022

A facile and straightforward approach for the expedite construction of indole-3-carboxamide skeletons via a palladium-catalyzed carbonylative cyclization of 2-ethynylanilines with nitroarenes has been developed.
Modification of C.I. Pigment Red 146 with surfactants and graphene oxide
Authors: Lv Dongjun , Zhang Zilong , Zhang Jiahui , Zhang Xiaolei , Liu Leifang , Gong Yue , Zhao Jianghong , Li Yi
Published: August 2022

The color properties and solvent resistance of modified Pigment Red 146 were obviously improved by adding surfactants and graphene oxide.
Colorimetric and naked-eye detection of arsenic(iii) using a paper-based microfluidic device decorated with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Saadati Arezoo , Farshchi Fatemeh , Hasanzadeh Mohammad , Liu Yuqian , Seidi Farzad
Published: August 2022

Arsenic (As) as a metal ion has long-term toxicity and its presence in water poses a serious threat to the environment and human health.
Tunable uniaxial, area, and volume negative thermal expansion in quartz-like and diamond-like metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Ying , Miura Hideo , Suzuki Ken , Wang Cong
Published: August 2022

It is demonstrated that organic and inorganic materials share similar physical properties if they have a similar intrinsic configuration. This work explores the novel properties of organic materials with complex structures, starting from simple inorganic materials.
How cryoprotectants work: hydrogen-bonding in low-temperature vitrified solutions
Authors: Lee Euihyun , Baiz Carlos R.
Published: August 2022

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) increases cell and tissue viability at low temperatures and is commonly used as a cryoprotectant for cryogenic storage of biological materials.
La smartphonique au service de la photonique
Authors: Delabre Ulysse , Bruni Nicolas , Goy Nicolas-Alexandre , Girot Antoine
Published: August 2022

Les smartphones sont omniprésents et sont aujourd’hui dotés de multiples capteurs. Il devient possible de détourner ces capteurs pour faire des expériences scientifiques – un domaine né il y a quelques années que l’on peut désigner par le terme smartphonique. Nous détaillons ici quelques-unes de ces expériences réalisables avec smartphone initialement dédiées à l’enseignement mais nous montrons aussi quelques utilisations récentes du smartphone en recherche en nous focalisant principalement sur le domaine de l’optique.
Periacetabular osteotomy: A novel application of modified Stoppa approach
Authors: Baraka Mostafa M. , Sallam Haitham E. , Abdelwahab Mahmoud M.
Published: August 2022

Background: The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a well-established procedure for symptomatic hip dysplasia in adolescents and young adults. However, it remains a technically demanding procedure, and several major complications have been described, many of which are related to the approach and surgical exposure. The current study evaluates the efficacy and safety of PAO performed through a modified Stoppa approach. Methods: A prospective series of nine consecutive patients with hip dysplasia were treated PAO through the modified Stoppa approach. The mean age was 22.4 years (15–30 years) and the mean follow-up was 3.2 years (2–5 years). Harris hip score (HHS) was used as a functional score, and the radiographic indices included the lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) and Tönnis roof angle. Results: The approach allowed the osteotomy lines to be performed under direct visualization from the intra-pelvic surface of the acetabulum, aided by fluoroscopy. A lateral window was added to perform the final iliac cut and for subsequent mobilization and fixation of the acetabular fragment. The mean HHS improved significantly from 70.8 ± 4.9 points to 90.1 ± 3.3 points (p < 0.001). The mean LCEA improved from 8.2° ± 4.9 (range: 0–14) to 32.7° ± 5.3 (range: 26–40), with a mean improvement of 24.5°. The mean Tönnis angle improved from 28.4° ± 4.4 (range: 22–35) to 3.8° ± 3.3 (range: 0–10). Two patients had irritation from prominent screw heads that necessitated removal 1 year after the index procedure. One patient had radiographic progression of osteoarthritis. No cases of infection, non-union, heterotopic ossification, or nerve palsy were identified till the latest follow-up. Conclusion: Ganz PAO can be safely conducted through the modified Stoppa approach, providing direct exposure to the osteotomized surfaces, and protecting susceptible neuro-vascular structures.

Level of evidence: IV.
Use of an electromagnetic-guided device to assist with post-pyloric placement of a nasoenteral feeding tube: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mancini Fabio Catache , de Moura Diogo Turiani Hourneaux , Funari Mateus Pereira , Ribeiro Igor Braga , Neto Fernando Lopes Ponte , Mendieta Pastor Joaquin Ortiz , McCarty Thomas R. , Bernardo Wanderley Marques , Nahas Sergio Carlos , de Moura Eduardo Guimarães Hourneaux
Published: August 2022

Background and study aims While endoscopic-guided placement (EGP) of a post-pyloric nasoenteral feeding tube may improve caloric intake and reduce the risk of bronchoaspiration, an electromagnetic-guided placement (EMGP) method may obviate the need for endoscopic procedures. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials comparing the efficacy and safety of EMGP versus EGP of a post-pyloric feeding tube.

Methods Protocolized searches were performed from the inception through January 2021 following PRISMA guidelines. Only randomized controlled trials were included comparing EMGP versus EGP. Study outcomes included: technical success (defined as appropriate post-pyloric positioning), tube and patient associated adverse events (AEs), time to enteral nutrition, procedure-associated cost, and procedure time. Pooled risk difference (RD) and mean difference (MD) were calculated using a fixed-effects model and heterogeneity evaluated using Higgins test (I2).

Results Four randomized trials (n = 536) were included. A total of 287 patients were included in the EMGP group and 249 patients in the EGP group. There was no difference between EMGP versus EGP regarding technical success, tube-related AEs, patient-related AEs, procedure time, and time in the right position. Time to enteral nutrition favored EMGP (MD: –134.37 [–162.13, –106.61]; I2 = 35 %); with significantly decreased associated cost (MD: –127.77 ($) [–135.8–119.73]; I2 = 0 %).

Conclusions Based on this study, EMGP and EGP were associated with similar levels of technical success and safety as well as time to complete the procedure. Despite this, EMGP was associated with reduced cost and time to initiation of nutrition.
Akupunktur bei Achillodynie
Authors: Schmitz Andreas
Published: August 2022

Eine 53-jährige Patientin kam mit seit Monaten bestehenden Beschwerden
der rechten Achillessehne in die Praxis. Es zeigte sich eine typische
spindelförmige Auftreibung der Achillessehne am
tendinomuskulären Übergang und des umgebenden Gleitgewebes. Nach
erfolgloser konservativer Vorbehandlung wurde eine Akupunkturbehandlung unter
Einbeziehung lokaler Ah-Shi-Punkte, Fernpunkte und Ohrpunkte
durchgeführt. Es zeigten sich eine sichtbare Reduktion der Schwellung
und eine schmerzfreie Belastbarkeit der Achillessehne nach
Akupunkturbehandlung.
Herzinsuffizienz und Vorhofflimmern – eine
Zwillingsepidemie
Authors: Deneke Thomas , Berkovitz Artur , Ene Elena , Müller Julian , Sonne Kai , Kerber Sebastian , Zhuravlev Vitali , Nentwich Karin
Published: August 2022

Vorhofflimmern (VHF) und eine Herzinsuffizienz begünstigen sich gegenseitig und
treten häufig in Kombination auf. Eine effektive Therapie des VHF inklusive der
möglicherweise notwendigen Antikoagulation sollte zentraler Baustein bei
Patienten mit eingeschränkter systolischer Funktion und VHF sein. Medikamentöse
Therapieoptionen sind in der Regel wenig effektiv, sodass zunehmend
Katheterablationsverfahren zur Behandlung dieser Patienten in den Vordergrund
gestellt werden. Randomisierte Studien bei selektierten Patienten zeigen nicht
nur einen symptomatischen Effekt auf die Herzinsuffizienz, sondern neben
Verbesserung der LV-Funktion auch einen Letalitätsbenefit der effektiven
Ablation von VHF. In der Zukunft gilt es, Patienten sinnvoll für die
Katheterablation zu identifizieren. Ob das reine Vorhandensein von VHF oder eher
die VHF-Last bei Patienten mit Herzinsuffizienz entscheidend für die Prognose
ist, wird aktuell in weiteren Studien untersucht.
Sekundäre AV-Klappeninsuffizienzen – Stellenwert der interventionellen Therapie
Authors: Nettersheim Felix Sebastian , Omran Hazem , Pfister Roman , Rudolph Volker
Published: August 2022

Sekundäre Mitral- und Trikuspidalklappeninsuffizienzen treten häufig im Kontext des Herzinsuffizienz-Syndroms auf durch geometrische oder funktionelle Veränderungen der Herzkammern und/oder
-vorhöfe trotz strukturell intakter Klappe. Durch Volumenbelastung der Ventrikel können diese entscheidend zur Symptomatik und Progression der Herzinsuffizienz beitragen und sind dadurch von
erheblicher prognostischer Bedeutung. Aufgrund des hohen OP-Risikos waren die Therapieoptionen traditionell oft auf eine Behandlung der Herzinsuffizienz beschränkt. Die Entwicklung von
kathetergestützten Techniken ermöglicht die Behandlung der sekundären AV-Klappeninsuffizienz mit akzeptablem Risiko und ist aufgrund aktueller Studienergebnisse ein wichtiger Bestandteil der
Herzinsuffizienz-Therapie. Im Folgenden geben wir einen Überblick über interventionelle Strategien zur Behandlung der sekundären AV-Klappeninsuffizienzen und deren aktuellen Stellenwert in
der klinischen Praxis.
Schmerzen in der neonatologischen Intensivpflege präzise erfassen und einschätzen
Authors: Huber Jana
Published: August 2022

Bei der Versorgung auf einer neonatologischen Intensivstation sind Frühgeborene zahlreichen Schmerzinterventionen ausgesetzt. Rezidivierende Schmerzreize und eine nicht adäquate Schmerztherapie können das nozizeptive System von Frühgeborenen ungünstig beeinflussen und langfristig zu Entwicklungsstörungen führen. Dies erfordert eine standardisierte und regelmäßige Schmerzerfassung durch den Einbezug evaluierter Schmerzerfassungsinstrumente.
Apixaban Prophylactic Anticoagulation in Patients with Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Van Meerhaeghe Tess , Cez Alexandre , Dahan Karine , Esteve Emmanuel , Elalamy Ismail , Boffa Jean Jacques , Ponlot Eleonore
Published: August 2022

Background Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events (TEs), due to hemostatic derangements. The use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in the prevention of TE has not been studied intensively in patients suffering from NS.

Methods The method included retrospective analysis of consecutive incident patients with NS due to glomerular disease, receiving apixaban for thromboprophylaxis. It is an uncontrolled, single-center study.

Results We identified 27 patients treated with apixaban for the prevention of TEs, in the context of NS. During follow-up, apixaban minimal blood concentration (trough level; Cmin) and maximum blood concentration (Cmax) levels were measured. The mean duration of the anticoagulant treatment was 153 days (±132). Patients were followed for a mean of 14.7 months (±8.4) since the introduction of apixaban. Three patients had a TE at the time of NS diagnosis. Two patients had pulmonary embolism (PE) and one patient presented a stroke in a lupus membranous nephropathy context. One patient developed PE approximately 2 months after the introduction of apixaban treatment. No minor or major bleeding events were noticed.

Conclusion The present study shows that patients, suffering from severe NS under anticoagulant therapy with apixaban had a reduced risk of venous and arterial TEs compared with patients previously described in the literature, without increased risk of bleeding.
Reasoning COVID-19: the use of spatial metaphor in times of a crisis
Authors: Kremer Dominik , Felgenhauer Tilo
Published: August 2022

As other crises before, the COVID-19 pandemic put established discursive routines at stake. By framing the pandemic as a crisis, an immediate search for adequate counter-measures started to define proper means of mitigation and protection for the population. In the early stages of COVID-19, when little reliable information on the virus and its transmission behaviour was available, an intense use of metaphor to explain and govern the crisis had to be expected. Beside its well-known impact on (geo-)politics, a thorough analysis especially of the use of spatial metaphors to reason about the crises is still missing. In our approach, we rely on the foundational work of Lakoff and Johnson (1980) on image schemata, and prior work on spatial metaphors as part of argumentation patterns from cultural geography (Schlottmann, 2008). After a thorough analysis of prominent examples according to the argumentation scheme of Toulmin (1976 [1958]), we explored examples from the pre-existing corpus on COVID-19, deliberately compiled by DWDS for analysis of language patterns used throughout the pandemic. In a subsequent filter-refinement approach building on methods from cognitive linguistics and utilising a chunk of the same corpus, we were able to obtain and discuss results on the variety of spatial metaphors used at that time.
Effect of multi-wall carbon nanotubes on electrochemical performances of MnO2
Authors: Singhal Rahul , Saini Bhagirath , Kiehnle-Benitez Monica , Sadowski Thomas , Broadbridge Christine , Scanley Jules , LeMaire Peter K. , Sharma Rakesh K.
Published: August 2022

Composites of MnO2/multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared using different weight ratios of MWCNTs: KMnO4 (1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, and 1:25) using a one-pot hydrothermal method. The synthesized materials were physically characterized by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) BET, and thermogravimetric analysis. TEM and SEM studies indicate that MnO2 is homogeneously entangled with MWCNTs. The electrochemical performance evaluation was performed in a 3-electrode system using MnO2/MWCNT electrodes coated onto a Ni mesh as the working electrode, a Pt foil as the counter electrode, and Ag/AgCl as the reference electrode. The specific capacitance was obtained from charge–discharge studies at varying current densities between 0.5 and 5 A/g. The specific capacitance of MWCNT-KMnO4 (1:10, 1:15, and 1:25) samples was obtained as 114, 164, and 100 F/g, respectively, at a current density of 1 A/g.
Subtropical clouds key to Southern Ocean teleconnections to the tropical Pacific
Authors: Kim Hanjun , Kang Sarah M. , Kay Jennifer E. , Xie Shang-Ping
Published: August 2022

Excessive precipitation over the southeastern tropical Pacific is a major common bias that persists through generations of global climate models. While recent studies suggest an overly warm Southern Ocean as the cause, models disagree on the quantitative importance of this remote mechanism in light of ocean circulation feedback. Here, using a multimodel experiment in which the Southern Ocean is radiatively cooled, we show a teleconnection from the Southern Ocean to the tropical Pacific that is mediated by a shortwave subtropical cloud feedback. Cooling the Southern Ocean preferentially cools the southeastern tropical Pacific, thereby shifting the eastern tropical Pacific rainbelt northward with the reduced precipitation bias. Regional cloud locking experiments confirm that the teleconnection efficiency depends on subtropical stratocumulus cloud feedback. This subtropical cloud feedback is too weak in most climate models, suggesting that teleconnections from the Southern Ocean to the tropical Pacific are stronger than widely thought.
Serine 408 phosphorylation is a molecular switch that regulates structure and function of the occludin α-helical bundle
Authors: Srivastava Atul K. , Venkata Bharat Somireddy , Sweat Yan Y. , Rizzo Heather R. , Jean-François Léa , Zuo Li , Kurgan Kathleen W. , Moore Patrick , Shashikanth Nitesh , Smok Izabela , Sachleben Joseph R. , Turner Jerrold R. , Meredith Stephen C.
Published: August 2022

Occludin is a tetramembrane-spanning tight junction protein. The long C-terminal cytoplasmic domain, which represents nearly half of occludin sequence, includes a distal bundle of three α-helices that mediates interactions with other tight junction components. A short unstructured region just proximal to the α-helical bundle is a phosphorylation hotspot within which S408 phosphorylation acts as molecular switch that modifies tight junction protein interactions and barrier function. Here, we used NMR to define the effects of S408 phosphorylation on intramolecular interactions between the unstructured region and the α-helical bundle. S408 pseudophosphorylation affected conformation at hinge sites between the three α-helices. Further studies using paramagnetic relaxation enhancement and microscale thermophoresis indicated that the unstructured region interacts with the α-helical bundle. These interactions between the unstructured domain are enhanced by S408 phosphorylation and allow the unstructured region to obstruct the binding site, thereby reducing affinity of the occludin tail for zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). Conversely, S408 dephosphorylation attenuates intramolecular interactions, exposes the binding site, and increases the affinity of occludin binding to ZO-1. Consistent with an increase in binding to ZO-1, intravital imaging and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) analyses of transgenic mice demonstrated increased tight junction anchoring of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-tagged nonphosphorylatable occludin relative to wild-type EGFP-occludin. Overall, these data define the mechanisms by which S408 phosphorylation modifies occludin tail conformation to regulate tight junction protein interactions and paracellular permeability.
DYF-5/MAK–dependent phosphorylation promotes ciliary tubulin unloading
Authors: Jiang Xuguang , Shao Wenxin , Chai Yongping , Huang Jingying , Mohamed Mohamed A. A. , Ökten Zeynep , Li Wei , Zhu Zhiwen , Ou Guangshuo
Published: August 2022

Cilia are microtubule-based organelles that power cell motility and regulate sensation and signaling, and abnormal ciliary structure and function cause various ciliopathies. Cilium formation and maintenance requires intraflagellar transport (IFT), during which the kinesin-2 family motor proteins ferry IFT particles carrying axonemal precursors such as tubulins into cilia. Tubulin dimers are loaded to IFT machinery through an interaction between tubulin and the IFT-74/81 module; however, little is known of how tubulins are unloaded when arriving at the ciliary tip. Here, we show that the ciliary kinase DYF-5/MAK phosphorylates multiple sites within the tubulin-binding module of IFT-74, reducing the tubulin-binding affinity of IFT-74/81 approximately sixfold. Ablation or constitutive activation of IFT-74 phosphorylation abnormally elongates or shortens sensory cilia inCaenorhabditis elegansneurons. We propose that DYF-5/MAK–dependent phosphorylation plays a fundamental role in ciliogenesis by regulating tubulin unloading.
Two mutations in the ORF1 of genotype 1 hepatitis E virus enhance virus replication and may associate with fulminant hepatic failure
Authors: Wang Bo , Tian Debin , Sooryanarain Harini , Mahsoub Hassan M. , Heffron C. Lynn , Hassebroek Anna M. , Meng Xiang-Jin
Published: August 2022

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in pregnant women has a high incidence of developing fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) with significant mortality. Multiple amino acid changes in genotype 1 HEV (HEV-1) are reportedly linked to FHF clinical cases, but experimental confirmation of the roles of these changes in FHF is lacking. By utilizing the HEV-1 indicator replicon and infectious clone, we generated 11 HEV-1 single mutants, each with an individual mutation, and investigated the effect of these mutations on HEV replication and infection in human liver cells. We demonstrated that most of the mutations actually impaired HEV-1 replication efficiency compared with the wild type (WT), likely due to altered physicochemical properties and structural conformations. However, two mutations, A317T and V1120I, significantly increased HEV-1 replication. Notably, these two mutations simultaneously occurred in 100% of 21 HEV-1 variants from patients with FHF in Bangladesh. We further created an HEV-1 A317T/V1120I double mutant and found that it greatly enhanced HEV replication, which may explain the rapid viral replication and severe disease. Furthermore, we tested the effect of these FHF-associated mutations on genotype 3 HEV (HEV-3) replication and found that all the mutants had a reduced level of replication ability and infectivity, which is not unexpected due to distinct infection patterns between HEV-1 and HEV-3. Additionally, we demonstrated that these FHF-associated mutations do not appear to alter their sensitivity to ribavirin (RBV), suggesting that ribavirin remains a viable option for antiviral therapy for patients with FHF. The results have important implications for understanding the mechanism of HEV-1–associated FHF.
A sequential two-step priming scheme reproduces diversity in synaptic strength and short-term plasticity
Authors: Lin Kun-Han , Taschenberger Holger , Neher Erwin
Published: August 2022

Glutamatergic synapses display variable strength and diverse short-term plasticity (STP), even for a given type of connection. Using nonnegative tensor factorization and conventional state modeling, we demonstrate that a kinetic scheme consisting of two sequential and reversible steps of release–machinery assembly and a final step of synaptic vesicle (SV) fusion reproduces STP and its diversity among synapses. Analyzing transmission at the calyx of Held synapses reveals that differences in synaptic strength and STP are not primarily caused by variable fusion probability (

p
fusion

) but are determined by the fraction of docked synaptic vesicles equipped with a mature release machinery. Our simulations show that traditional quantal analysis methods do not necessarily report

p
fusion

of SVs with a mature release machinery but reflect both

p
fusion

and the distribution between mature and immature priming states at rest. Thus, the approach holds promise for a better mechanistic dissection of the roles of presynaptic proteins in the sequence of SV docking, two-step priming, and fusion. It suggests a mechanism for activity-induced redistribution of synaptic efficacy.
Characterisation of the professional identity of school principals (Caracterización de la identidad profesional de los directores de escuela)
Authors: Mollá Núria , Castelló Montserrat
Published: August 2022

Despite the growth in research on the impact of school administration on educational improvement in the past 10 years, the characterization of the identity of school principals is a controversial, pending issue. In this study, we set out to undertake this characterization from a dialogic perspective by tracking four expert principals over the course of one academic year. Via a longitudinal design with multiple case studies, we analysed their repertoire of positions and their variations. The instruments included a reflective journal, interviews based on the self-confrontation method and a discussion group. Our results indicate not only that the principals share their positioning as promoters of learning and project managers when dealing with professional events but that dialogue among internal and external voices enables them to deal with the conflicts and tensions among positions constructively. We conclude that principals’ professional identity can be developed through conscious, strategic reflection on the positions they take within the context of their professional activity.
Development of resistance to 5-fluorouracil affects membrane viscosity and lipid composition of cancer cells
Authors: Shimolina Liubov , Gulin Alexander , Khlynova Aleksandra , Ignatova Nadezhda , Druzhkova Irina , Gubina Margarita , Zagaynova Elena , Kuimova Marina K , Shirmanova Marina
Published: August 2022

The investigations reported here were designed to determine whether the bulk plasma membrane is involved in mechanisms of acquired resistance of colorectal cancer cells to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) of live cultured cells stained with viscosity-sensitive probe BODIPY 2 was exploited to non-invasively assess viscosity in the course of treatment and adaptation to the drug. In parallel, lipid composition of membranes was examined with the time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Our results showed that a single treatment with 5-FU induced only temporal changes of viscosity in 5-FU sensitive cells immediately after adding the drug. Acquisition of chemoresistance was accompanied by persistent increase of viscosity, which was preserved upon treatment without any changes. Lipidomic analysis revealed that the resistant cells had a lower level of monounsaturated fatty acids and increased sphingomyelin or decreased phosphatidylcholine in their membranes, which partly explain increase of the viscosity. Thus, we propose that a high membrane viscosity mediates the acquisition of resistance to 5-FU.
Chaetognatha
Authors: Harzsch Steffen , Perez Yvan , Müller Carsten H.G.
Published: August 2022

According to palaeontological evidence, Chaetognatha (arrow worms), a group of small marine predators that are major components of the zooplankton throughout our world oceans, were already present in the Early Cambrian Chengjang, in the Middle Cambrian Burgess Shale. These animals are considered to be the earliest active predator metazoans and displayed a planktonic lifestyle with possible ecological preferences for hyperbenthic niches close to the sea bottom. Today, the taxon Chaetognatha comprises more than 150 described species from all geographical and vertical ranges of the ocean, and they are among the most abundant pelagic organisms. Chaetognatha are characterized by the presence of horizontally projecting fins and, at the anterior end, two groups of moveable, cuticularized grasping spines used in capturing prey. In spite of an increasing number of molecular studies and an emerging consensus for protostome affinities, the phylogenetic position of the Chaetognatha is still one of the most enigmatic issues in metazoan phylogeny. The chaetognath genome is likely the product of a unique evolutionary history and shows the long isolation of this group. Furthermore, morphological characteristics provide evidence for a long evolutionary distance that separates the Chaetognatha from its closest (unknown) metazoan relative and suggest that this taxon in many aspects seems to have explored its own evolutionary pathways in generating tissue and organ diversity. Both the genome and morphological characters include many autapomorphies of this group, in addition to a bizarre character mix of protostome and deuterostome features. Here, the current knowledge of the nervous system is reviewed in these remarkable creatures.
Amygdala and anterior insula control the passage from nociception to pain
Authors: Gélébart Juliette , Garcia-Larrea Luis , Frot Maud
Published: August 2022

Activation of the spinothalamic system does not always result in a subjective pain perception. While the cerebral network processing nociception is relatively well known, the one underlying its transition to conscious pain remains poorly described. We used intracranial electroencephalography in epileptic patients to investigate whether the amplitudes and functional connectivity of posterior and anterior insulae (PI and AI) and amygdala differ according to the subjective reports to laser stimuli delivered at a constant intensity set at nociceptive threshold. Despite the constant intensity of stimuli, all patients reported variable subjective perceptions from one stimulus to the other. Responses in the sensory PI remained stable throughout the experiment, hence reflecting accurately the stability of the stimulus. In contrast, both AI and amygdala responses showed significant enhancements associated with painful relative to nonpainful reports, in a time window corresponding to the conscious integration of the stimulus. Functional connectivity in the gamma band between these two regions increased significantly, both before and after stimuli perceived as painful. While the PI appears to transmit faithfully the actual stimulus intensity received via the spinothalamic tract, the AI and the amygdala appear to play a major role in the transformation of nociceptive signals into a painful perception.
Explaining continuity and change: The case of the Euratom Treaty
Authors: Södersten Anna
Published: August 2022

The Euratom Treaty is one of the EU Treaties. It was adopted already in 1957, but unlike the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) it has not been amended in substance. The article has two aims, which are analyzed through the lens of historical institutionalism, an approach characterized by its focus on the effects of institutions over time. First, it states and discusses some possible reasons as to why the Euratom Treaty has not been revised. Second, it shows that although the Treaty has not been formally amended by treaty revision, an incremental gradual change has occurred anyway through displacement, layering, drift, conversion, and exhaustion. This change is more than profound: it provides the Euratom with a new rationale.
The continuum of care for people living with HIV in Suriname: identifying factors influencing the care delivery process
Authors: Stijnberg Deborah , Kee Mike Mc , Bergs Jochen , Adhin Malti R , Schrooten Ward
Published: August 2022

Background

Identifying gaps along the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continuum of care is essential in reaching viral suppression.

Objective

The aim of this study aims to identify sociodemographic and clinical factors influencing HIV diagnosis, linkage to care, antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and retention, and viral suppression in Suriname.

Method

Adults, over 15 years, enrolled as HIV positive in the national surveillance system from 2010 to 2015, were included. Multiple regression looking into sociodemographic and clinical factors was executed. Indicators evaluated were ‘knowing HIV status’, people initiating ART, 1-year ART retention, and viral suppression with ART.

Results

There were 2939 registered adults registered. Based on yearly average, of the 52% (95% confidence interval (CI), 52–53%) of estimated people living with HIV, 4950 knew their HIV status; 63% (95% CI, 62–64%) of these diagnosed initiated ART; and 81% (95% CI, 22–32%) of those on ART were virally suppressed. If tested positive at a non-voluntary counseling testing (VCT) site, better linkage to care (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.6; 95% CI, 1.2–2.1) is seen. Although better linked to care (aOR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2–1.8), no difference was noted in viral suppression (aOR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.6–1.0) for men compared to women. Men initiate treatment at a more advanced stage of disease (CD4 ≤ 200) than women (47.4% versus 31.4%), leading to higher mortality rates. People from the interior were less likely linked to care (aOR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4–0.8) than those from urban regions but did not display significant differences in treatment initiation.

Conclusion

In each step, the continuum shows a significant drop. Innovative interventions with a particular focus on men and people living in the interior are needed. Also, a more proactive system of linking people in care, especially at VCT sites, is needed.