bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The TGF-β ligand DBL-1 is a key player in a multifaceted probiotic protection against MRSA in C. elegans
Authors: Mørch Maria G. M. , Møller Katrine V. , Hesselager Marianne O. , Harders Rikke H. , Kidmose Caroline L. , Buhl Therese , Fuursted Kurt , Bendixen Emøke , Shen Chong , Christensen Lotte G. , Poulsen Charlotte H. , Olsen Anders
Published: May 2021

Worldwide the increase in multi-resistant bacteria due to misuse of traditional antibiotics is a growing threat for our health. Finding alternatives to traditional antibiotics is thus timely. Probiotic bacteria have numerous beneficial effects and could offer safer alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Here, we use the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans(C. elegans) to screen a library of different lactobacilli to identify potential probiotic bacteria and characterize their mechanisms of action. We show that pretreatment with theLactobacillusspp. Lb21 increases lifespan ofC. elegansand results in resistance towards pathogenic methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA).Using genetic analysis, we find that Lb21-mediated MRSA resistance is dependent on the DBL-1 ligand of the TGF-β signaling pathway inC. elegans. This response is evolutionarily conserved as we find that Lb21 also induces the TGF-β pathway in porcine epithelial cells. We further characterize the host responses in an unbiased proteome analysis and identify 474 proteins regulated in worms fed Lb21 compared to control food. These include fatty acid CoA synthetase ACS-22, aspartic protease ASP-6 and vitellogenin VIT-2 which are important for Lb21-mediated MRSA resistance. Thus, Lb21 exerts its probiotic effect onC. elegansin a multifactorial manner. In summary, our study establishes a mechanistic basis for the antimicrobial potential of lactobacilli.
Antagonism between brain regions relevant for cognitive control and emotional memory facilitates the generation of humorous ideas
Authors: Bitsch Florian , Berger Philipp , Fink Andreas , Nagels Arne , Straube Benjamin , Falkenberg Irina
Published: May 2021

The ability to generate humor gives rise to positive emotions and thus facilitate the successful resolution of adversity. Although there is consensus that inhibitory processes might be related to broaden the way of thinking, the neural underpinnings of these mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we use functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a humorous alternative uses task and a stroop task, to investigate the brain mechanisms underlying the emergence of humorous ideas in 24 subjects. Neuroimaging results indicate that greater cognitive control abilities are associated with increased activation in the amygdala, the hippocampus and the superior and medial frontal gyrus during the generation of humorous ideas. Examining the neural mechanisms more closely shows that the hypoactivation of frontal brain regions is associated with an hyperactivation in the amygdala and vice versa. This antagonistic connectivity is concurrently linked with an increased number of humorous ideas and enhanced amygdala responses during the task. Our data therefore suggests that a neural antagonism previously related to the emergence and regulation of negative affective responses, is linked with the generation of emotionally positive ideas and may represent an important neural pathway supporting mental health.
Electro-optical measurement of intense electric field on a high energy pulsed power accelerator
Authors: Owens Israel , Grabowski Chris , Biller Andrew , Ulmen Ben , Joseph Nathan , Hughes Ben , Coffey Sean , Kirschner Debra , Struve Ken
Published: May 2021

We describe a direct electro-optical approach to measuring a strong 118 MV/m narrow pulse width (~ 33 ns) electric field in the magnetically insulated transmission line (MITL) of a pulsed power accelerator. To date, this is the highest direct external electric field measured electro-optically in a pulsed power accelerator, and it is between two to three orders of magnitude higher than values reported in comparable high energy scientific experiments. The MITL electric field is one of the most important operating parameters in an accelerator and is critical to understanding the properties of the radiation output. However, accurately measuring these high fields using conventional pulsed power diagnostics is difficult due to the strength of interfering particles and fields. Our approach uses a free-space laser beam with a dielectric crystal sensor that is highly immune to electromagnetic interference and does not require an external calibration. Here we focus on device theory, operating parameters, laboratory and pulsed power accelerator experiments as well as challenges that were overcome in the measurement environment.
Antimony induced structural and ultrastructural changes in Trapa natans
Authors: Baruah Sangita , Bora Monashree Sarma , Dutta Sanghita , Hazarika Kalyan Kumar , Mudoi Pronab , Sarma Kali Prasad
Published: May 2021

Antimony (Sb) is considered as a priority toxic metalloid in the earth crust having no known biological function. The current study was carried out in a hydroponic experiment to study the accumulation of ecotoxic Sb in subcellular level, and to find out the ultrastructural damage caused by Sb in different vegetative parts of Trapa natans. Sb-induced structural and ultrastructural changes of T. natans were investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Experimental plants were exposed to different Sb(III) treatments: SbT1 (1.5 μmol/L), SbT2 (40 μmol/L) and SbT3 (60 μmol/L). Calculated bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) showed that at higher concentration (SbT2, SbT3), T. natans is a potent phytoexcluder whereas it can translocate a substantial amount of Sb to the aerial parts at lower concentration (SbT1). SEM analysis revealed Sb-mediated structural changes in the size of stomatal aperture, intercellular spaces and vascular bundles of different vegetative tissues of T. natans. TEM results showed subcellular compartmentalization of Sb in vacuole and cell wall as electron dense deposition. This is considered as a part of strategy of T. natans to detoxify the deleterious effects under Sb stress conditions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) study of plant biomass revealed possible metabolites of T. natans which can bind Sb.
Patent ductus arteriosus treatment trends and associated morbidities in neonates
Authors: Park Joonsik , Yoon So J , Han Jungho , Song In G , Lim Joohee , Shin Jeong E , Eun Ho S , Park Kook I , Park Min S , Lee Soon M
Published: May 2021

To evaluate national epidemiologic data on infants treated for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in Korea and analyze outcomes associated with different PDA treatments. We retrospectively evaluated data on 12,336 patients diagnosed with PDA (International Classification of Diseases-10 code: Q250) between 2015 and 2018 from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database. Among them, 1623 patients underwent surgical ligation (code: O1671). We used birth certificate data from Statistics Korea to estimate the prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of PDA. The prevalence of infants with PDA was 81 infants per 10,000 live births and 45.2% in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, which increased from 2015 to 2018. PDA ligation was performed in 2571 infants and 22% VLBW infants. Medical treatment was administered to 4202 infants, which decreased significantly, especially in VLBW infants (62% to 53%). The proportion of treatment was as follows: conservative treatment (53.1%), intravenous ibuprofen (24.4%), surgery (20.4%), and oral ibuprofen (10.7%); that among 4854 VLBW infants was as follows: intravenous ibuprofen (46.3%), conservative treatment (33.2%), surgery (22.2%), and oral ibuprofen (14.2%). Surgical treatment had a significantly higher risk (odds ratio 1.36) of mortality than conservative treatment. Surgical and/or medical treatments were associated with a higher risk of morbidity. Recently, increased use of conservative management of PDA has contributed to improved neonatal outcomes in VLBW infants. Select patients may still benefit from surgical ligation following careful consideration.
Validation of the relationship between coagulopathy and localization of hydroxyethyl starch on the vascular endothelium in a rat hemodilution model
Authors: Azumaguchi Ryu , Tokinaga Yasuyuki , Kazuma Satoshi , Kimizuka Motonobu , Hamada Kosuke , Sato Tomoe , Yamakage Michiaki
Published: May 2021

Various anticoagulant properties have been associated with hydroxyethyl starch (HES). However, the mechanism remains unclear and it has not been fully considered whether these properties are beyond the dilutional effect itself. The aim of this study was to reproduce the coagulopathy induced by HES and to test the hypothesis that the coagulopathy is caused by endothelial or glycocalyx damage due to localization of HES on the endothelium, which is caused by the high shear viscosity of dilutional blood. Using a rat model, we compared blood coagulability measured by Sonoclot, levels of endothelial and glycocalyx damage markers and coagulation factors, and blood shear viscosity when hemodilution was performed with physiological saline (PS), 6% HES 130/0.4 in PS, and 10% HES 200/0.5 in PS. We also evaluated the localization rates of fluorescently labeled HES on endothelium in the isolated aorta. HES decreased the fibrin gel formation rate more than did PS. HES was shown to cover the endothelium, possibly due to its high shear viscosity, and this mechanism potentially acted to protect, rather than damage, the endothelium and glycocalyx. However, this covering effect may be the cause of coagulopathy due to inhibition of von Willebrand factor secretion from the endothelium.
Assessment of potential invasion for six phytophagous quarantine pests in Taiwan
Authors: Yeh Hsin-Ting , Cheah Harn-Yeu , Chiu Ming-Chih , Liao Jhih-Rong , Ko Chiun-Cheng
Published: May 2021

Pest risk assessment is typically performed by expert taxonomists using a pest’s biological data. However, the biological data or expert taxonomists may be difficult to find. Here, we used species distribution modelling to predict potential invasion in which phytophagous quarantine pests survive in Taiwan; the pests (unrecorded yet in Taiwan) included were three notorious quarantine whiteflies (Crenidorsum aroidephagus, Aleurothrixus trachoides, and Paraleyrodes minei) and three aphids (Nasonovia ribisnigri, Macrosiphum euphorbiae, and Viteus vitifoliae). In brief, maximum entropy modelling (MaxEnt) was used to predict the suitability of the pests’ habitats under certain climatic conditions, and then receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed (to verify the prediction result). We then analysed environmental variables affecting the habitat suitability and matched them with Taiwan’s crop cultivation areas for the assessment of potential invasion. We observed that the habitat suitability of the cultivation areas of host plants was low for C. aroidephagus, A. trachoides, and N. ribisnigri but was high for the remaining three species. Moreover, precipitation of coldest quarter negatively affected habitat suitability for C. aroidephagus, P. minei, N. ribisnigri, and M. euphorbiae. Seasonal temperature changes also negatively affected the habitat suitability for A. trachoides. This is the first study to demonstrate the use of species distribution modelling as the preliminary step for the pest risk assessment of these emerging pests with limited biological data before their invasion.
Environmental implications and evidence of natural products from dental calculi of a Neolithic–Chalcolithic community (central Italy)
Authors: D’Agostino Alessia , Di Marco Gabriele , Rubini Mauro , Marvelli Silvia , Rizzoli Elisabetta , Canini Antonella , Gismondi Angelo
Published: May 2021

In this contribution, we investigated the role of plants in the prehistoric community ofCasale del Dolce(Anagni, FR, central Italy), through microparticles recovered from dental calculus. The finding of a great amount of pollen types, even in form of compact lumps, could indicate use of natural substances, such as honeybee products and/or conifer resins. This plant-microremain record also suggested environmental implications relative to the Neolithic and Chalcolithic period. Additionally, the stability of the tartar microenvironment had preserved starches and other microparticles, such as one epidermal trichome, a sporangium, and fragments of plant tissue, rarely detected in ancient dental calculus. The detection of secondary metabolites in the ancient matrix confirmed the familiarity of this community with plant resources. All these data supply various interesting food for thought and expand the knowledge about the potential of dental calculus in archaeological and archaeobotanical fields with a special focus on palaeoecology.
Fluorescence Fluctuation Spectroscopy enables quantification of potassium channel subunit dynamics and stoichiometry
Authors: Tedeschi Giulia , Scipioni Lorenzo , Papanikolaou Maria , Abbott Geoffrey W. , Digman Michelle A.
Published: May 2021

Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels are a family of membrane proteins that facilitate K+ ion diffusion across the plasma membrane, regulating both resting and action potentials. Kv channels comprise four pore-forming α subunits, each with a voltage sensing domain, and they are regulated by interaction with β subunits such as those belonging to the KCNE family. Here we conducted a comprehensive biophysical characterization of stoichiometry and protein diffusion across the plasma membrane of the epithelial KCNQ1-KCNE2 complex, combining total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy and a series of complementary Fluorescence Fluctuation Spectroscopy (FFS) techniques. Using this approach, we found that KCNQ1-KCNE2 has a predominant 4:4 stoichiometry, while non-bound KCNE2 subunits are mostly present as dimers in the plasma membrane. At the same time, we identified unique spatio-temporal diffusion modalities and nano-environment organization for each channel subunit. These findings improve our understanding of KCNQ1-KCNE2 channel function and suggest strategies for elucidating the subunit stoichiometry and forces directing localization and diffusion of ion channel complexes in general.
Enhanced condensation heat transfer using porous silica inverse opal coatings on copper tubes
Authors: Adera Solomon , Naworski Lauren , Davitt Alana , Mandsberg Nikolaj K. , Shneidman Anna V. , Alvarenga Jack , Aizenberg Joanna
Published: May 2021

Phase-change condensation is commonplace in nature and industry. Since the 1930s, it is well understood that vapor condenses in filmwise mode on clean metallic surfaces whereas it condenses by forming discrete droplets on surfaces coated with a promoter material. In both filmwise and dropwise modes, the condensate is removed when gravity overcomes pinning forces. In this work, we show rapid condensate transport through cracks that formed due to material shrinkage when a copper tube is coated with silica inverse opal structures. Importantly, the high hydraulic conductivity of the cracks promote axial condensate transport that is beneficial for condensation heat transfer. In our experiments, the cracks improved the heat transfer coefficient from ≈ 12 kW/m2 K for laminar filmwise condensation on smooth clean copper tubes to ≈ 80 kW/m2 K for inverse opal coated copper tubes; nearly a sevenfold increase from filmwise condensation and identical enhancement with state-of-the-art dropwise condensation. Furthermore, our results show that impregnating the porous structure with oil further improves the heat transfer coefficient by an additional 30% to ≈ 103 kW/m2 K. Importantly, compared to the fast-degrading dropwise condensation, the inverse opal coated copper tubes maintained high heat transfer rates when the experiments were repeated > 20 times; each experiment lasting 3–4 h. In addition to the new coating approach, the insights gained from this work present a strategy to minimize oil depletion during condensation from lubricated surfaces.
Novel late-stage radiosynthesis of 5-[18F]-trifluoromethyl-1,2,4-oxadiazole (TFMO) containing molecules for PET imaging
Authors: Turkman Nashaat , Liu Daxing , Pirola Isabella
Published: May 2021

Small molecules that contain the (TFMO) moiety were reported to specifically inhibit the class-IIa histone deacetylases (HDACs), an important target in cancer and the disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). However, radiolabeling methods to incorporate the [18F]fluoride into the TFMO moiety are lacking. Herein, we report a novel late-stage incorporation of [18F]fluoride into the TFMO moiety in a single radiochemical step. In this approach the bromodifluoromethyl-1,2,4-oxadiazole was converted into [18F]TFMO via no-carrier-added bromine-[18F]fluoride exchange in a single step, thus producing the PET tracers with acceptable radiochemical yield (3–5%), high radiochemical purity (> 98%) and moderate molar activity of 0.33–0.49 GBq/umol (8.9–13.4 mCi/umol). We validated the utility of the novel radiochemical design by the radiosynthesis of [18F]TMP195, which is a known TFMO containing potent inhibitor of class-IIa HDACs.
miRNAs of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus 1762) conserved in six orders of the class Insecta
Authors: Rodríguez-Sanchez Iram Pablo , Saldaña-Torres Daniel Rafael , Villanueva-Segura Olga Karina , Garza-Rodriguez Maria Lourdes , Gómez-Govea Mayra A. , Liang Ghongwei , de Lourdes Ramírez-Ahuja María , De La Luz Martinez-Fierro Margarita , Delgado-Enciso Ivan , Martinez-de-Villarreal Laura E. , Zhou Yu , Flores-Suarez Adriana E. , Chen Xi , Resendez-Pérez Diana , Zhang Chen-Yu , Ponce-Garcia Gustavo
Published: May 2021

AedesaegyptiL. is the most important vector of arboviruses such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, Mayaro, and yellow fever, which impact millions of people’s health per year. MicroRNA profile has been described in some mosquito species as being important for biological processes such as digestion of blood, oviposition, sexual differentiation, insecticide resistance, and pathogens dissemination. We identified the miRNAs ofAe.aegyptifemales, males and eggs of a reference insecticide susceptible strain New Orleans and compared them with those other insects to determine miRNA fingerprint by new-generation sequencing. The sequences were analyzed using data mining tools and categorization, followed by differential expression analysis and conservation with other insects. A total of 55 conserved miRNAs were identified, of which 34 were of holometabolous insects and 21 shared with hemimetabolous insects. Of these miRNAs, 32 had differential expression within the stages analyzed. Three predominant functions of miRNA were related to embryonic development regulation, metamorphosis, and basal functions. The findings of this research describe new information onAe.aegyptiphysiology which could be useful for the development of new control strategies, particularly in mosquito development and metamorphosis processes.
A pharmacovigilance study of association between proton pump inhibitor and dementia event based on FDA adverse event reporting system data
Authors: Wu Bin , Hu Qiaozhi , Tian Fangyuan , Wu Fengbo , Li Yuwen , Xu Ting
Published: May 2021

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) was widely used around the world. Studies suggested conflicting results between PPI treatment and dementia event. This study examined the association between six PPI agents and dementia event by mining the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database from 2004 to 2020. We employed proportional reporting ratio (PRR) and information element (IC) methods to detect the signals of dementia relevant to PPI. We also analyzed characteristics of PPI and positive control reports, compared dementia event between long- and short-duration of PPI treatment. Finally, we identified 2396 dementia cases with PPI treatment. We did not detect significant signal between PPI and dementia event: PRR = 0.98, 95%CI 0.94 to 1.02, IC = −0.03, 95%CI − 0.17 to 0.10, even in gastroesophageal reflux disease cases: PRR = 0.65, 95%CI 0.59 to 0.72, IC = −0.62, 95%CI − 0.97 to − 0.27. No significant differences of dementia event were detected between long- and short- duration groups, the OR (95%CI) of the 3 years, 5 years and 10 years comparison were 0.70 (0.48 to 1.02), 0.72 (0.45 to 1.15) and 1.65 (0.75 to 3.63), respectively. Based on the current FAERS data mining, we discovered no association between PPI use and dementia event, even in long-term PPI therapy case.
A clinical staging proposal of the disease course over time in non-severe patients with coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Lin Yiting , Wu Yiqun , Zhong Ping , Hou Bingbo , Liu Jielan , Chen Yingying , Liu Jiajun
Published: May 2021

Information on the clinical staging of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still limited. This study aimed to propose a clinical staging proposal of the disease course in non-severe patients with COVID-19. In this retrospective study, 108 non-severe patients with COVID-19 were grouped according to the duration from symptoms onset to hospital admission: ≤ 1 week, > 1 to 2 weeks, > 2 to 3 weeks, > 3 to 5 weeks, respectively. The dynamic changes of clinical signs were profiled across the four groups. A clinical staging proposal of the disease course over time was proposed from the perspective of the interaction between the virus and host. The prodromal phase, characterized by pneumonia, significant lymphopenia, and slightly elevated inflammatory markers, occurred in the first week after symptoms onset. In the second week, all the hematological and inflammatory markers were at the peak or bottom. Meanwhile, progressive pneumonia as well as the secondary damage of other organs (e.g. cardiac damage, coagulopathy, etc.) was significant during this period, making the disease progress into the apparent manifestation phase. In the third week, the improvement of the majority of clinical signs accompanied by a relatively high degree of inflammatory response defined the remission phase. After 3 weeks, patients were in the convalescent phase, in which all the indicators were maintained at a relatively normal level. We concluded that the disease course over time in non-severe patients with COVID-19 could be divided into four phases: the prodromal phase (in the first week), the apparent manifestation phase (in the second week), the remission phase (in the third week), and the convalescent phase (after 3 weeks), respectively. In clinical practice, tailored therapies should be considered seriously in different stages of the disease course.
Gut probiotic bacteria of Barbonymus gonionotus improve growth, hematological parameters and reproductive performances of the host
Authors: Salam Mohammad Abdus , Islam Md. Ariful , Paul Sulav Indra , Rahman Md. Mahbubur , Rahman Mohammad Lutfar , Islam Fatama , Rahman Ashikur , Shaha Dinesh Chandra , Alam Md Shah , Islam Tofazzal
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to isolate and identify probiotic bacteria from the gut ofBarbonymus gonionotusand evaluate their effects on growth, hematological parameters, and breeding performances of the host. Five probiotic bacteria viz. Enterococcus xiangfangensis(GFB-1),Pseudomonas stutzeri(GFB-2),Bacillus subtilis(GFB-3),Citrobacter freundii(GFB-4), andP. aeruginosa(GFB-5) were isolated and identified using16S rRNAgene sequencing. Application of a consortium of probiotic strains (1–3 × 1.35 × 109 CFU kg−1) or individual strain such as GFB-1 (1.62 × 109 CFU kg−1), GFB-2 (1.43 × 109 CFU kg−1), GFB-3 (1.06 × 109 CFU kg−1), GFB-4 (1.5 × 109 CFU kg−1) or GFB-5 (1.43 × 109 CFU kg−1feed) through feed significantly improved growth, histological and hematological parameters and reproductive performances ofB. gonionotuscompared to untreated control. Moreover, the application of these probiotics significantly increased gut lactic acid bacteria and activities of digestive enzymes but did not show any antibiotic resistance nor any cytotoxicity in vitro. The highest beneficial effects on treated fishes were recorded by the application of GFB-1, GFB-2, GFB-3, and a consortium of these bacteria (T2). This is the first report of the improvement of growth and health ofB. gonionotusfishes by its gut bacteria.
Complete mitochondrial genomes and phylogenetic relationships of the genera Nephila and Trichonephila (Araneae, Araneoidea)
Authors: Yong Hoi-Sen , Song Sze-Looi , Chua Kah-Ooi , Wayan Suana I. , Eamsobhana Praphathip , Tan Ji , Lim Phaik-Eem , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: May 2021

Spiders of the generaNephilaandTrichonephilaare large orb-weaving spiders. In view of the lack of study on the mitogenome of these genera, and the conflicting systematic status, we sequenced (by next generation sequencing) and annotated the complete mitogenomes ofN. pilipes,T. antipodianaandT. vitiana(previouslyN. vitiana) to determine their features and phylogenetic relationship. Most of the tRNAs have aberrant clover-leaf secondary structure. Based on 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) and 15 mitochondrial genes (13 PCGs and two rRNA genes),NephilaandTrichonephilaform a clade distinctly separated from the other araneid subfamilies/genera.T. antipodianaforms a lineage withT. vitianain the subclade containing alsoT. clavata, whileN. pilipesforms a sister clade toTrichonephila. The taxonvitianais therefore a member of the genusTrichonephilaand notNephilaas currently recognized. Studies on the mitogenomes of otherNephilaandTrichonephilaspecies and related taxa are needed to provide a potentially more robust phylogeny and systematics.
Network-based analysis of key regulatory genes implicated in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Recurrent Miscarriages in Turner Syndrome
Authors: Farooqui Anam , Alhazmi Alaa , Haque Shafiul , Tamkeen Naaila , Mehmankhah Mahboubeh , Tazyeen Safia , Ali Sher , Ishrat Romana
Published: May 2021

The information on the genotype–phenotype relationship in Turner Syndrome (TS) is inadequate because very few specific candidate genes are linked to its clinical features. We used the microarray data of TS to identify the key regulatory genes implicated with TS through a network approach. The causative factors of two common co-morbidities, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Recurrent Miscarriages (RM), in the Turner population, are expected to be different from that of the general population. Through microarray analysis, we identified nine signature genes of T2DM and three signature genes of RM in TS. The power-law distribution analysis showed that the TS network carries scale-free hierarchical fractal attributes. Through local-community-paradigm (LCP) estimation we find that a strong LCP is also maintained which means that networks are dynamic and heterogeneous. We identified nine key regulators which serve as the backbone of the TS network. Furthermore, we recognized eight interologs functional in seven different organisms from lower to higher levels. Overall, these results offer few key regulators and essential genes that we envisage have potential as therapeutic targets for the TS in the future and the animal models studied here may prove useful in the validation of such targets.
Long term outcome of combined phacoemulsification and excisional goniotomy with the Kahook Dual Blade in different subtypes of glaucoma
Authors: Al Habash Ahmed , Albuainain Abdulrahman
Published: May 2021

To characterize changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and IOP-lowering medications through up to 2 years of follow-up in patients undergoing combined phacoemulsification and excisional goniotomy with the Kahook Dual Blade (phaco-KDB), with simultaneous goniosynechialysis in cases of angle-closure glaucoma. Prospective, non-comparative, interventional case series. Consecutive patients with medically-treated glaucoma and visually-significant cataract underwent combined surgery. Analysis was conducted on open-angle (OAG) and angle-closure (ACG) glaucoma groups separately. Thirty-seven patients with OAG (24 with primary OAG and 13 with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma) and 11 with ACG were enrolled. In OAG eyes, mean (standard error) baseline IOP was 21.1 (0.9) mmHg and through 24 months of follow-up was reduced by 6.4–7.7 mmHg (24.6–32.1%; p ≤ 0.0001 at all time points). In ACG eyes, mean baseline IOP was 20.8 (1.6) mmHg and was reduced by 6.1–8.77 mmHg (23.4–39.0%; p ≤ 0.0353). Mean medications were reduced by 61.9–89.1% (p ≤ 0.0001) in OAG eyes and by 56.3–87.3% (p ≤ 0.0004) in ACG eyes. Phaco-KDB significantly lowered IOP ~ 30% and medications by > 50% through 24 months. This combined procedure provides meaningful long-term reductions in IOP and need for IOP-lowering medication and does not adversely affect visual rehabilitation in eyes with cataract and glaucoma.
Day 5 vitrified blastocyst transfer versus day 6 vitrified blastocyst transfer in oocyte donation program
Authors: Yerushalmi G. M. , Shavit T. , Avraham S. , Youngster M. , Kedem A. , Gat I. , Dorofeyeva U. S. , Mashiach S. , Schiff E. , Shulman A. , Seidman D. S. , Wiser A. , Maman E. , Hourvitz A. , Baum M.
Published: May 2021

The superiority of day 5 blastocysts compared to day 6 blastocysts in fresh cycle transfers was previously demonstrated and attributed mainly to endometrial asynchrony. Data from frozen blastocysts transfers showed conflicting results, possibly due to heterogeneous patient population and embryo quality. The aim of this study was to compare clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) between transfers of vitrified day 5 blastocysts and day 6 blastocysts in oocyte donation, blastocyst-only cycles. In a retrospective, multi-center study, with a single oocyte donation program, a total of 1840 frozen embryo transfers (FET’s) were analyzed, including 1180 day 5 blastocysts and 660 day 6 blastocysts transfers. Day 5 blastocyst transfers had better embryonic development and significantly higher CPRs (34.24% vs. 20.15%, P < 0.0001), higher LBRs (26.89% vs. 14.77%, P < 0.0001), less cycles to LBR (1.83 ± 0.08 vs. 2.39 ± 0.18, P = 0.003) and shorter time to LBRs (76.32 ± 8.7 vs. 123.24 ± 19.1 days, P = 0.01), compared to day 6 transfers, respectively. A multivariate stepwise logistic regression indicated, that day 5 transfer was an independent factor for CPRs (OR 1.91; 95% CI 1.43–2.54, P < 0.001) and LBRs (OR 2.26; 95% CI 1.19–4.28, P = 0.01), regardless of embryo quality, compared to day 6. In conclusion, day 5 blastocysts in oocyte donation program have significantly higher CPRs and LBRs, and present shorter time to delivery, compared to day 6 blastocysts, regardless of embryo quality.
Cryo-EM structure of mammalian RNA polymerase II in complex with human RPAP2
Authors: Fianu Isaac , Dienemann Christian , Aibara Shintaro , Schilbach Sandra , Cramer Patrick
Published: May 2021

Nuclear import of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) involves the conserved factor RPAP2. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of mammalian Pol II in complex with human RPAP2 at 2.8 Å resolution. The structure shows that RPAP2 binds between the jaw domains of the polymerase subunits RPB1 and RPB5. RPAP2 is incompatible with binding of downstream DNA during transcription and is displaced upon formation of a transcription pre-initiation complex.
Genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 deletion screen defines mitochondrial gene essentiality and identifies routes for tumour cell viability in hypoxia
Authors: Thomas Luke W. , Esposito Cinzia , Morgan Rachel E. , Price Stacey , Young Jamie , Williams Steven P. , Maddalena Lucas A. , McDermott Ultan , Ashcroft Margaret
Published: May 2021

Mitochondria are typically essential for the viability of eukaryotic cells, and utilize oxygen and nutrients (e.g. glucose) to perform key metabolic functions that maintain energetic homeostasis and support proliferation. Here we provide a comprehensive functional annotation of mitochondrial genes that are essential for the viability of a large panel (625) of tumour cell lines. We perform genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 deletion screening in normoxia-glucose, hypoxia-glucose and normoxia-galactose conditions, and identify both unique and overlapping genes whose loss influences tumour cell viability under these different metabolic conditions. We discover that loss of certain oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) genes (e.g. SDHC) improves tumour cell growth in hypoxia-glucose, but reduces growth in normoxia, indicating a metabolic switch in OXPHOS gene function. Moreover, compared to normoxia-glucose, loss of genes involved in energy-consuming processes that are energetically demanding, such as translation and actin polymerization, improve cell viability under both hypoxia-glucose and normoxia-galactose. Collectively, our study defines mitochondrial gene essentiality in tumour cells, highlighting that essentiality is dependent on the metabolic environment, and identifies routes for regulating tumour cell viability in hypoxia.
One-step direct oxidation of fullerene-fused alkoxy ethers to ketones for evaporable fullerene derivatives
Authors: Lin Hao-Sheng , Ma Yue , Xiang Rong , Manzhos Sergei , Jeon Il , Maruyama Shigeo , Matsuo Yutaka
Published: May 2021

Ketones are widely applied moieties in designing functional materials and are commonly obtained by oxidation of alcohols. However, when alcohols are protected/functionalized, the direct oxidation strategies are substantially curbed. Here we show a highly efficient copper bromide promoted one-step direct oxidation of benzylic ethers to ketones with the aid of a fullerene pendant. Mechanistic studies unveil that fullerene can serve as an electron pool proceeding the one-step oxidation of alkoxy group to ketone. In the absence of the fullerene pendant, the unreachable activation energy threshold hampers the direct oxidation of the alkoxy group. In the presence of the fullerene pendant, generated fullerene radical cation can activate the neighbour C–H bond of the alkoxy moiety, allowing a favourable energy barrier for initiating the direct oxidation. The produced fullerene-fused ketone possesses high thermal stability, affording the pin-hole free and amorphous electron-transport layer with a high electron-transport mobility.
The carbonization of aromatic molecules with three-dimensional structures affords carbon materials with controlled pore sizes at the Ångstrom-level
Authors: Ogoshi Tomoki , Sakatsume Yuma , Onishi Katsuto , Tang Rui , Takahashi Kazuma , Nishihara Hirotomo , Nishina Yuta , Campéon Benoît D. L. , Kakuta Takahiro , Yamagishi Tada-Aki
Published: May 2021

Carbon materials with controlled pore sizes at the nanometer level have been obtained by template methods, chemical vapor desorption, and extraction of metals from carbides. However, to produce porous carbons with controlled pore sizes at the Ångstrom-level, syntheses that are simple, versatile, and reproducible are desired. Here, we report a synthetic method to prepare porous carbon materials with pore sizes that can be precisely controlled at the Ångstrom-level. Heating first induces thermal polymerization of selected three-dimensional aromatic molecules as the carbon sources, further heating results in extremely high carbonization yields (>86%). The porous carbon obtained from a tetrabiphenylmethane structure has a larger pore size (4.40 Å) than those from a spirobifluorene (4.07 Å) or a tetraphenylmethane precursor (4.05 Å). The porous carbon obtained from tetraphenylmethane is applied as an anode material for sodium-ion battery.
Symmetry mediated tunable molecular magnetism on a 2D material
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Arabi Soroush , Kern Klaus , Ternes Markus
Published: May 2021

Symmetries in nanoscale structures can be decisive for their structural, electronic, and magnetic properties, particularly in systems with reduced dimensions. Here we show that the symmetries of a flat metal-organic molecule adsorbed on a transition metal dichalcogenide, a 2-dimensional layered material, have a dramatic effect on the total spin and the intramolecular spin-spin interactions. Using a scanning probe microscope, we find two different molecular spin states by modifying the symmetry of the molecules via the twist angle to the substrate. Additionally, we observe significant non-collinear Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction between two electron spins on the molecule induced by the spin-orbit coupling of the van der Waals coupled layered material with broken inversion symmetry. Our work opens a path for modifying the spin by exploiting symmetries and for studying the nature of surface-induced non-collinear spin-spin interaction within a single molecule which might allow the realization of more complex topological spin structures.
Current extinction rate in European freshwater gastropods greatly exceeds that of the late Cretaceous mass extinction
Authors: Neubauer Thomas A. , Hauffe Torsten , Silvestro Daniele , Schauer Jens , Kadolsky Dietrich , Wesselingh Frank P. , Harzhauser Mathias , Wilke Thomas
Published: May 2021

The Cretaceous–Paleogene mass extinction event 66 million years ago eradicated three quarters of marine and terrestrial species globally. However, previous studies based on vertebrates suggest that freshwater biota were much less affected. Here we assemble a time series of European freshwater gastropod species occurrences and inferred extinction rates covering the past 200 million years. We find that extinction rates increased by more than one order of magnitude during the Cretaceous–Paleogene mass extinction, which resulted in the extinction of 92.5% of all species. The extinction phase lasted 5.4 million years and was followed by a recovery period of 6.9 million years. However, present extinction rates in European freshwater gastropods are three orders of magnitude higher than even these revised estimates for the Cretaceous–Paleogene mass extinction. Our results indicate that, unless substantial conservation effort is directed to freshwater ecosystems, the present extinction crisis will have a severe impact to freshwater biota for millions of years to come.
When polymerization meets coordination-driven self-assembly: metallo-supramolecular polymers based on supramolecular coordination complexes
Authors: Zhu Yu , Zheng Wei , Wang Wei , Yang Hai-Bo
Published: May 2021

The marriage of polymerization and coordination-driven self-assembly has given rise to novel types of metallo-supramolecular polymers with well-defined and diverse topological architectures as well as unique dynamic features.
The protective effects of yellow tea extract against loperamide-induced constipation in mice
Authors: Cao Pei-Qin , Li Xiu-Ping , Ou-Yang Jian , Jiang Rong-Gang , Huang Fang-Fang , Wen Bei-Bei , Zhang Xiang-Na , Huang Jian-An , Liu Zhong-Hua
Published: May 2021

We evaluated the effects of yellow tea extract on relieving constipation induced by loperamide and evaluated the changes of gut microbiota based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Synergistic effects of Ga doping and Mg alloying over the enhancement of the stress sensitivity of a Ga-doped MgZnO pressure sensor
Authors: Lee Ping Han , Brahma Sanjaya , Dutta Jit , Huang Jow-Lay , Liu Chuan-Pu
Published: May 2021

We demonstrate the synergistic effects of Ga doping and Mg alloying into ZnO on the large enhancement of the piezopotential and stress sensing performance of piezotronic pressure sensors made of Ga-doped MgZnO films.
Direct synthesis of polyureas from the dehydrogenative coupling of diamines and methanol
Authors: Kumar Amit , Armstrong Daniel , Peters Gavin , Nagala Manjula , Shirran Sally
Published: May 2021

We present here the first example of the direct synthesis of polyureas from the dehydrogenative coupling of diamines and methanol.
Unravelling the growth mechanism of (3,1) graphene nanoribbons on a Cu(111) surface
Authors: Geagea Elie , Jeannoutot Judicael , Morgenthaler Louise , Lamare Simon , Rochefort Alain , Palmino Frank , Chérioux Frédéric
Published: May 2021

The growth of (3,1) graphene nanoribbons obtained by thermal annealing of 9,9′-bianthryl derivatives on a Cu(111) surface is re-investigated by using scanning tunnelling microscopy.
A mechanism for ageing in a deeply supercooled molecular glass
Authors: Cassidy Andrew , Jørgensen Mads R. V. , Glavic Artur , Lauter Valeria , Plekan Oksana , Field David
Published: May 2021

A molecular glass spontaneously polarises upon growth. The temporal decay of this polarization is directly related to the rotation of molecular dipoles and we use this to track an ageing pathway in a deeply supercooled glassy solid.
Nuclear magnetic resonance characterisation of ionic liquids and organic ionic plastic crystals: common approaches and recent advances
Authors: Zhu Haijin , O'Dell Luke A.
Published: May 2021

This article provides an overview of nuclear magnetic resonance methods and applications to ionic liquids and organic ionic plastic crystals.
Silver nanoparticle-decorated titanium dioxide nanowire systems via bioinspired poly(l-DOPA) thin film as a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) platform, and photocatalyst
Authors: Mazlumoglu Hayrunnisa , Yilmaz Mehmet
Published: May 2021

Silver nanostructure decorated-titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanocomposite systems with their unique characteristics provide extraordinary performances in various applications including surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), and photocatalysis.
Recent advances of noble-metal-free bifunctional oxygen reduction and evolution electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhao Chang-Xin , Liu Jia-Ning , Wang Juan , Ren Ding , Li Bo-Quan , Zhang Qiang
Published: May 2021

Bifunctional oxygen reduction and evolution constitute the core processes for sustainable energy storage. The advances on noble-metal-free bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts are reviewed.
Mechanisms and effects of zinc oxide nanoparticle transformations on toxicity to zebrafish embryos
Authors: Lee Gyudong , Lee Byongcheun , Kim Ki-Tae
Published: May 2021

Environmental transformations modify the physicochemical properties of ZnO NPs, modulate their ability to reduce zinc ions, and determine the degree of toxicity reduction in zebrafish embryos.
The effect of mixing and free-floating carrier media on bioaerosol release from wastewater: a multiscale investigation with Bacillus globigii
Authors: Xing Yun , Burdsall Adam C. , Owens Andrew , Magnuson Matthew , Harper Jr Willie F.
Published: May 2021

Bioaerosol emission is correlated to quantitative descriptors across different scales.
Preventing leaching from lead water pipes with electrochemistry: an exploratory study
Authors: Lobo G. P. , Gadgil A. J.
Published: May 2021

We report on the feasibility of a novel technology that applies a small external voltage to rapidly generate an insoluble scale within lead pipes to decrease lead leaching into the drinking water.
In situ determination of antimony isotope ratios in Sb minerals by femtosecond LA-MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Kaufmann A. B. , Lazarov M. , Kiefer S. , Majzlan J. , Weyer S.
Published: May 2021

Here we present a method for in situ determination of stable antimony (Sb) isotope compositions by ultraviolet (UV)-femtosecond-laser-ablation-multi-collector-ICP-MS (fs-LA-MC-ICP-MS).
Correction: Discovery of intrinsic two-dimensional antiferromagnets from transition-metal borides
Authors: Wang Shiyao , Miao Nanxi , Su Kehe , Blatov Vladislav A. , Wang Junjie
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘Discovery of intrinsic two-dimensional antiferromagnets from transition-metal borides’ by Shiyao Wang et al., Nanoscale, 2021, 13, 8254–8263, DOI: 10.1039/D1NR01103K.
Iodine-catalyzed oxidative functionalization of purines with (thio)ethers or methylarenes for the synthesis of purin-8-one analogues
Authors: Zhuge Juanping , Jiang Ziyang , Jiang Wei , Histand Gary , Lin Dongen
Published: May 2021

A novel route to a wide range of 9-alkyl(benzyl)purin-8-one derivatives from purines reacting with (thio)ethers or methylarenes is described.
Synthesis of an urushiol derivative and its use for hydrolysis resistance in dentin adhesive
Authors: Zhao Ying , He Xi , Wang Han , Zhu Jiufu , Wang Huimin , Zheng Yan , Zhu Song , Cui Zhanchen
Published: May 2021

Synthesis of a natural plant monomer (urushiol) derivative and achieving a good performance in dentistry.
Effect of the number of nitrogen dopants on the electronic and magnetic properties of graphitic and pyridinic N-doped graphene – a density-functional study
Authors: Yutomo Erik Bhekti , Noor Fatimah Arofiati , Winata Toto
Published: May 2021

The number of dopant atoms is a parameter that can effectively tune the electronic and magnetic properties of graphitic and pyridinic N-doped graphene.
Enzymatic dephosphorylation-triggered self-assembly of DNA amphiphiles
Authors: Zou Jianmei , Gao Qian , Nie Jinfang , Zhang Yun , Jin Cheng
Published: May 2021

Enzymatic dephosphorylation-triggered self-assembly of DNA amphiphiles is developed by integrating enzymatic dephosphorylation-induced increase of hydrophobicity and intermolecular aggregation of lipid-conjugated oligonucleotides.
Chemically stable fluorescent anti-counterfeiting labels achieved by UV-induced photolysis of nanocellulose
Authors: Cheng Hongrui , Wei Xiaofeng , Qiu Haijiang , Wang Wensong , Su Wenyue , Zheng Yuanhui
Published: May 2021

The cellulose-based fluorescent patterning strategy is developed by UV exposure to achieve covert, chemically stable and solvent tolerant security labels.
Synthesis of 4-thiol-furanosidic uronate via hydrothiolation reaction
Authors: Ma Shih-Ting , Lee Chia-Wei , Liu Wei-Min
Published: May 2021

Uronic acids are not only important building blocks of bioactive molecules but also are widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Its derivative, 4-thiol-furanosidic uronate was successfully synthesized and firstly reported here.
Multifunctional carbon-supported bioactive hybrid nanocomposite (C/GO/NCP) bed for superior water decontamination from waterborne microorganisms
Authors: Jakubczak Michał , Karwowska Ewa , Fiedorczuk Alicja , Jastrzębska Agnieszka M.
Published: May 2021

Achieving both effective and sustainable water decontamination technology requires development of a universal filtration solution.
Influence of cerium doping on Cu–Ni/activated carbon low-temperature CO-SCR denitration catalysts
Authors: Wang Defu , Huang Bangfu , Shi Zhe , Long Hongming , Li Lu , Yang Zhengyu , Dai Meng
Published: May 2021

In the process of denitrification, the reaction between NO and CO (NO + CO → N2 + CO2) occurs. There will be a redox reaction between copper, nickel and cerium (Cu2+ + Ce3+ → Cu+ + Ce4+, Ni3+ + Ce3+ → Ni2+ + Ce4+).
Robust, flexible, and high-performance electromagnetic interference shielding films with long-lasting service
Authors: Wang Licui , Xie Zhaoxin , Zhan Yanhu , Hao Xuehui , Meng Yanyan , Wei Shi , Chen Zhenming , Xia Hesheng
Published: May 2021

It is of great significance for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials to fulfill long-lasting service requirements.
Hydrogenated or oxyfunctionalized turpentine: options for automotive fuel components
Authors: Donoso David , García Duban , Ballesteros Rosario , Lapuerta Magín , Canoira Laureano
Published: May 2021

Transformation of turpentine by catalytic hydrogenation and oxyfunctionalization enhances notably the diesel properties. Particularly, oxyturpentine improves the soot tendency and hydroturpentine the cold flow properties.
Chiral polymer hosts for circularly polarized electroluminescence devices
Authors: Hong Jayeon , Kim Sangsub , Park Gyurim , Lee Yongmoon , Kim Hyungchae , Kim Sungjin , Lee Tae-Woo , Kim Changsoon , You Youngmin
Published: May 2021

Polymer electroluminescence devices producing circularly polarized luminescence (CP PLEDs) have valuable photonic applications.
Pathways to increase the dissymmetry in the interaction of chiral light and chiral molecules
Authors: Greenfield Jake L. , Wade Jessica , Brandt Jochen R. , Shi Xingyuan , Penfold Thomas J. , Fuchter Matthew J.
Published: May 2021

This perspective explores the dissymmetric interaction between circularly polarised (CP) light and chiral molecules. Such interactions are central to many applications from next generation displays to asymmetric photochemical synthesis.
Impact of Mg and Ti doping in O3 type NaNi1/2Mn1/2O2 on reversibility and phase transition during electrochemical Na intercalation
Authors: Kubota Kei , Fujitani Naoya , Yoda Yusuke , Kuroki Kazutoshi , Tokita Yusuke , Komaba Shinichi
Published: May 2021

O3 type NaNi1/2Mn1/2O2 materials with Mg and Ti co-substitution demonstrate better capacity capability with an initial discharge capacity of 200 mA h g−1 in non-aqueous Na cells without any capacity loss due to substitution.