bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dielectric magnetochiral anisotropy
Authors: Rikken Geert L. J. A. , Avarvari Narcis
Published: June 2022

The combination of chirality and magnetism has steadily grown over the last decennia into an area of intense research. Magnetochiral anisotropy, chirality-induced spin-selectivity and helimagnetism are the most prominent phenomena resulting from this combination, touching different systems like topological (semi-)metals and insulators, quantum magnets, type II multiferroics and enantio-selective synthesis. As an extension to this area, we argue, based on symmetry arguments, that magnetochiral anisotropy will manifest itself in the displacement current in chiral dielectrics in a magnetic field. We confirm this conjecture by the experimental observation of very strong dielectric magnetochiral anisotropy near the ferroelectric phase transitions of triglycine sulfate and Rochelle salt, two of the oldest and most investigated chiral ferroelectrics. This effect opens a new playground in the study and characterisation of all chiral dielectrics. With our discovery, magnetochiral anisotropy now covers the (di)electrical properties of all condensed matter, from insulators to superconductors.
Index system of rural human settlement in rural revitalization under the perspective of China
Authors: Liu Qi , Gong Decai , Gong Yuxuan
Published: June 2022

Rural revitalization strategies are an important task in China. Currently, it is in the transition from poverty alleviation to rural revitalization. This paper proposes an evaluation index of rural revitalization and development potential based on a summary of previous studies. Together with the TOPSIS method, the corresponding coefficients of each index layer and the weight coefficient of the criterion layer were analyzed. This shows that during the process, the work direction of rural revitalization varies based on different revitalization types. In this study, diagnostic tools are utilized to conduct a potential development analysis of rural human settlements by identifying the main influencing factors for rural revitalization. In addition, an index system for improving rural human settlement strategies is established. Overall, it helps in defining the interventions of reducing and managing the risk of rural vitalization and evaluating the potential ability of rural revitalization. It also suggests that Anhui Province should focus on carrying out the comprehensive revitalization of rural areas according to the different functional positions of the countryside.
The anatomy of social dynamics in escape rooms
Authors: O′Szabo Rebeka , Chowdhary Sandeep , Deritei David , Battiston Federico
Published: June 2022

From sport and science production to everyday life, higher-level pursuits demand collaboration. Despite an increase in the number of data-driven studies on human behavior, the social dynamics of collaborative problem solving are still largely unexplored with network science and other computational and quantitative tools. Here we introduce escape rooms as a non-interventional and minimally biased social laboratory, which allows us to capture at a high resolution real-time communications in small project teams. Our analysis portrays a nuanced picture of different dimensions of social dynamics. We reveal how socio-demographic characteristics impact problem solving and the importance of prior relationships for enhanced interactions. We extract key conversation rules from motif analysis and discuss turn-usurping gendered behavior, a phenomenon particularly strong in male-dominated teams. We investigate the temporal evolution of signed and group interactions, finding that a minimum level of tense communication might be beneficial for collective problem solving, and revealing differences in the behavior of successful and failed teams. Our work unveils the innovative potential of escape rooms to study teams in their complexity, contributing to a deeper understanding of the micro-dynamics of collaborative team processes.
Trabeculopuncture as a predictive test of distal outflow resistance in canal-based surgery
Authors: Verma-Fuehring R. , Dakroub M. , Han H. , Hillenkamp J. , Loewen N. A.
Published: June 2022

We investigated whether trabeculopuncture (TP) could detect distal outflow resistance to predict the outcome of canal-based glaucoma surgery such as ab interno trabeculectomy (AIT). These procedures have a high utilization in open angle glaucoma, but fail in eyes with an unidentified distal outflow resistance. We assigned 81 porcine eyes to two groups: trial (n = 42) and control (n = 39). At 24 h, four YAG-laser trabeculopunctures were placed nasally, followed by a 180° AIT at the same site at 48 h. The proportion of TP responders between both AIT groups was compared. Histology and outflow canalograms were determined. Both post-TP and post-AIT IOPs were lower than baseline IOP (p = 0.015 and p < 0.01, respectively). The success rates of TP and AIT were 69% and 85.7%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity values of TP as predictive test for AIT success were 77.7% and 83.3%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 96.6% and 38.5%, respectively. We conclude that a 10% reduction in IOP after TP can be used as a predictor for the success (> 20% IOP decrease) of 180° AIT in porcine eyes.
Involvement of the HERV-derived cell-fusion inhibitor, suppressyn, in the fusion defects characteristic of the trisomy 21 placenta
Authors: Sugimoto Jun , Schust Danny J. , Yamazaki Tomomi , Kudo Yoshiki
Published: June 2022

Suppressyn (SUPYN) is the first host-cell encoded mammalian protein shown to inhibit cell–cell fusion. Its expression is restricted to the placenta, where it negatively regulates syncytia formation in villi. Since its chromosomal localization overlaps with the Down syndrome critical region and the TS21 placenta is characterized by delayed maturation of cytotrophoblast cells and reduced syncytialization, we hypothesized a potential link between changes in SUPYN expression and morphologic abnormalities in the TS21 placenta. Here we demonstrate that an increase in chromosomal copy number in the TS21 placenta is associated with: (1) reduced fusion of cytotrophoblast cells into syncytiotrophoblast in vivo, (2) increased SUPYN transcription, translation and secretion in vivo, (3) increased SUPYN/syncytin-1 receptor degradation in vivo, (4) increased SUPYN transcription and secretion ex vivo, (5) decreased cytotrophoblast cell fusion ex vivo, and (6) reciprocal response of changes in SUPYN and CGB in TS21 placental cells ex vivo. These data suggest direct links between immature placentation in Down syndrome and increased SUPYN. Finally, we report a significant increase in secreted SUPYN concentration in maternal serum in women with pregnancies affected by Down syndrome, suggesting that SUPYN may be useful as an alternate or additional diagnostic marker for this disease.
Influence of cross-sectional aspect ratio on biochar segregation in a bubbling fluidized bed
Authors: Park Hoon Chae , Choi Hang Seok
Published: June 2022

In this study, computational particle fluid dynamics was applied to investigate the segregation characteristics of biochar in a bubbling fluidized bed. The aspect ratio of the bubbling fluidized bed was changed and the effects of the aspect ratio on the segregation characteristics were investigated. The segregation characteristics of a mixture of biochar and sand particles were analyzed in terms of bubble size distribution, pressure fluctuations, and mixing index. As the aspect ratio increased, the bubble size decreased, leading to a clearer segregation of biochar and sand particles. The mixing index of the biochar and sand particles decreased as the aspect ratio increased.
Clinical and anatomical features of the lateral costal artery and vein
Authors: Nakazawa Seshiru , Kawatani Natsuko , Obayashi Kai , Ohtaki Yoichi , Ito Tomokazu , Yajima Toshiki , Shirabe Ken
Published: June 2022

The lateral costal artery and vein are under recognized yet potentially important vessels for physicians, especially cardiothoracic surgeons. This study sought to determine the prevalence and clinical, anatomical, and radiological features of lateral costal vessels. We retrospectively analyzed lateral costal vessels based on intraoperative images in patients who underwent thoracic surgery at our institute between January 2016 and March 2020. Clinical data and surgical videos were analyzed for patient characteristics, prevalence, length, laterality, and additional anatomical and radiological features. The overall prevalence of lateral costal vessels was 19% and was significantly higher in males than females (22% vs. 14%, p = 0.003). The lateral costal vessels extended beyond the 2nd intercostal space in 74% of the cases, with differing length between the right and left sides in bilateral cases. Lateral costal vessels could be identified intraoperatively using indocyanine green or preoperatively through three-dimensional computed tomography. The prevalence of lateral costal vessels is relatively high and should be acknowledged by physicians prior to procedures involving the vessels.
The influence of time on the sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 serological testing
Authors: Torres Ortiz Arturo , Fenn Torrente Fernanda , Twigg Adam , Hatcher James , Saso Anja , Lam Tanya , Johnson Marina , Wagstaffe Helen , Dhillon Rishi , Mai Anabelle Lea , Goldblatt David , Still Rachel , Buckland Matthew , Gilmour Kimberly , Grandjean Louis
Published: June 2022

Sensitive serological testing is essential to estimate the proportion of the population exposed or infected with SARS-CoV-2, to guide booster vaccination and to select patients for treatment with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The performance of serological tests is usually evaluated at 14–21 days post infection. This approach fails to take account of the important effect of time on test performance after infection or exposure has occurred. We performed parallel serological testing using 4 widely used assays (a multiplexed SARS-CoV-2 Nucleoprotein (N), Spike (S) and Receptor Binding Domain assay from Meso Scale Discovery (MSD), the Roche Elecsys-Nucleoprotein (Roche-N) and Spike (Roche-S) assays and the Abbott Nucleoprotein assay (Abbott-N) on serial positive monthly samples collected as part of the Co-STARs study (www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04380896) up to 200 days following infection. Our findings demonstrate the considerable effect of time since symptom onset on the diagnostic sensitivity of different assays. Using a time-to-event analysis, we demonstrated that 50% of the Abbott nucleoprotein assays will give a negative result after 175 days (median survival time 95% CI 168–185 days), compared to the better performance over time of the Roche Elecsys nucleoprotein assay (93% survival probability at 200 days, 95% CI 88–97%). Assays targeting the spike protein showed a lower decline over the follow-up period, both for the MSD spike assay (97% survival probability at 200 days, 95% CI 95–99%) and the Roche Elecsys spike assay (95% survival probability at 200 days, 95% CI 93–97%). The best performing quantitative Roche Elecsys Spike assay showed no evidence of waning Spike antibody titers over the 200-day time course of the study. We have shown that compared to other assays evaluated, the Abbott-N assay fails to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies as time passes since infection. In contrast the Roche Elecsys Spike Assay and the MSD assay maintained a high sensitivity for the 200-day duration of the study. These limitations of the Abbott assay should be considered when quantifying the immune correlates of protection or the need for SARS-CoV-2 antibody therapy. The high levels of maintained detectable neutralizing spike antibody titers identified by the quantitative Roche Elecsys assay is encouraging and provides further evidence in support of long-lasting SARS-CoV-2 protection following natural infection.
Machine learning-based suggestion for critical interventions in the management of potentially severe conditioned patients in emergency department triage
Authors: Chang Hansol , Yu Jae Yong , Yoon Sunyoung , Kim Taerim , Cha Won Chul
Published: June 2022

Providing timely intervention to critically ill patients is a challenging task in emergency departments (ED). Our study aimed to predict early critical interventions (CrIs), which can be used as clinical recommendations. This retrospective observational study was conducted in the ED of a tertiary hospital located in a Korean metropolitan city. Patient who visited ED from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018, were included. Need of six CrIs were selected as prediction outcomes, namely, arterial line (A-line) insertion, oxygen therapy, high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), intubation, Massive Transfusion Protocol (MTP), and inotropes and vasopressor. Extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) prediction model was built by using only data available at the initial stage of ED. Overall, 137,883 patients were included in the study. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the prediction of A-line insertion was 0·913, oxygen therapy was 0.909, HFNC was 0.962, intubation was 0.945, MTP was 0.920, and inotropes or vasopressor administration was 0.899 in the XGBoost method. In addition, an increase in the need for CrIs was associated with worse ED outcomes. The CrIs model was integrated into the study site's electronic medical record and could be used to suggest early interventions for emergency physicians.
Radiological hints for differentiation of cerebellar multiple system atrophy from spinocerebellar ataxia
Authors: Chen Hung-Chieh , Lee Li-Hua , Lirng Jiing-Feng , Soong Bing-wen
Published: June 2022

Differentiation cerebellar multiple systemic atrophy (MSA-C) from spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is important. The “hot cross bun” sign (HCBS) at pons and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) are helpful. However, the prevalence of HCBS and the alteration of cerebellar MRS parameters are evolving with disease progression. We hypothesized that since the HCBS and MRS are evolving with time, different parameters for differentiation of MSA-C and SCA are required at different disease stages. The aim of this study was to evaluate the HCBS and MRS changes in patients with MSA-C and SCA at different disease stages. A total of 398 patients with molecularly confirmed SCA (SCA1, 2, 3, 6, 17) and 286 patients diagnosed with probable MSA-C (without mutations in SCA1, 2, 3, 6, 17 genes), who had received brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MRS from January 2000 to January 2020, were recruited. Twenty-five patients were molecularly identified as having SCA1, 68 as SCA2, 253 as SCA3, 34 as SCA6, and 18 as SCA17. We compared their clinical parameters and neuroimaging features at different disease stages. The presence of HCBS was assessed using an axial T2 fast spin-echo or FLAIR sequence. Proton MRS was recorded with voxel of interest focusing on cerebellar hemispheres and cerebellar vermis and avoiding cerebrospinal fluid spaces space using a single-voxel stimulated echo acquisition mode sequence. We found that patients with MSA-C tend to have a higher prevalence of pontine HCBS, worse Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia scores, lower cerebellar N-acetyl aspartate (NAA)/creatinine (Cr), and choline (Cho)/Cr, compared to patients with SCA at corresponding disease stages. In MSA-C patients with a disease duration < 1 year and without pontine HCBS, a cerebellar NAA/Cr ≤ 0.79 is a good indicator of the possibility of MSA-C. By using the pontine HCBS and cerebellar MRS, discerning MSA-C from SCA became possible. This study provides cutoff values of MRS to serve as clues in differentiating MSA-C from SCAs.
Effect of pigmentation intensity of trabecular meshwork cells on mechanisms of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty
Authors: Shimizu Shota , Honjo Megumi , Sugimoto Koichiro , Okamoto Michiaki , Aihara Makoto
Published: June 2022

The intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering mechanisms of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT) remain unclear. The present study was performed to investigate the mechanism of action of MLT, and to determine whether the pigmentation intensity of trabecular meshwork (TM) cells is associated with the treatment effects. Primary human TM cells were exposed to melanin granules to artificially introduce different levels of pigmentation. Micropulse (MP) laser irradiation was performed, and interleukin (IL)-1α/β, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein expression were evaluated by RT-qPCR and immunocytochemistry. IL-1α/β and MMP-1, -3, and -9 mRNA expression were significantly upregulated at 4 and 24 h after MP laser irradiation, respectively, but there were no significant changes in TIMP expression. The extent of these upregulation was greater in cells with strong pigmentation intensity. Protein expressions of fibronectin and collagen I were significantly decreased in cells with strong staining intensity. These results suggested that MP laser irradiation alter the MMP/TIMP ratio and enhance ECM turnover, resulting in increased outflow of aqueous humor. The pigmentation intensity of the TM tissues may affect the treatment efficacy of MLT, because TM cells with strong staining intensity showed a significantly enhanced response to MP laser irradiation.
Distinct characteristics of central serous chorioretinopathy according to gender
Authors: Yoneyama Seigo , Fukui Ayumi , Sakurada Yoichi , Terao Nobuhiro , Shijo Taiyo , Kusada Natsuki , Sugiyama Atsushi , Matsubara Mio , Fukuda Yoshiko , Kikushima Wataru , Parikh Ravi , Mabuchi Fumihiko , Sotozono Chie , Kashiwagi Kenji
Published: June 2022

To investigate the differences in clinical and genetic characteristics between males and females with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Consecutive 302 patients (mean age; 56.3 ± 11.7, male/female: 249/53) with CSC were evaluated on the initial presentation. All CSC patients underwent fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography (FA/ICGA), swept-source or spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) to confirm a diagnosis. All patients were genotyped for rs800292 and rs1329428 variants of CFH using TaqMan technology. On the initial presentation, female patients were significantly older (p = 2.1 × 10–4, female 61.6 ± 12.4 vs male 55.1 ± 11.3) and had thinner subfoveal choroidal thickness (p = 3.8 × 10–5) and higher central retinal thickness (p = 3.0 × 10–3) compared to males. A descending tract was more frequently seen in males than in females (p = 8.0 × 10–4, 18.1% vs 0%). Other clinical characteristics were comparable between the sexes. The risk allele frequency of both variants including CFH rs800292 and CFH rs1329428 was comparable between males and females (CFH rs800292 A allele male 51.2% vs female 47.2%, CFH rs1329428 T allele male 56.2% vs 52.8%). On the initial presentation, age, subfoveal choroidal thickness and central retinal thickness differ between males and females in eyes with CSC. A descending tract may be a strong male finding in CSC.
Characterization of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase from Chikungunya virus and discovery of a novel ligand as a potential drug candidate
Authors: Freire Marjorie C. L. C. , Basso Luis G. M. , Mendes Luis F. S. , Mesquita Nathalya C. M. R. , Mottin Melina , Fernandes Rafaela S. , Policastro Lucca R. , Godoy Andre S. , Santos Igor A. , Ruiz Uriel E. A. , Caruso Icaro P. , Sousa Bruna K. P. , Jardim Ana C. G. , Almeida Fabio C. L. , Gil Laura H. V. G. , Andrade Carolina H. , Oliva Glaucius
Published: June 2022

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is the causative agent of Chikungunya fever, an acute febrile and arthritogenic illness with no effective treatments available. The development of effective therapeutic strategies could be significantly accelerated with detailed knowledge of the molecular components behind CHIKV replication. However, drug discovery is hindered by our incomplete understanding of their main components. The RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase (nsP4-CHIKV) is considered the key enzyme of the CHIKV replication complex and a suitable target for antiviral therapy. Herein, the nsP4-CHIKV was extensively characterized through experimental and computational biophysical methods. In the search for new molecules against CHIKV, a compound designated LabMol-309 was identified as a strong ligand of the nsp4-CHIKV and mapped to bind to its active site. The antiviral activity of LabMol-309 was evaluated in cellular-based assays using a CHIKV replicon system and a reporter virus. In conclusion, this study highlights the biophysical features of nsP4-CHIKV and identifies a new compound as a promising antiviral agent against CHIKV infection.
Variation of genes encoding nitric oxide synthases and antioxidant enzymes as potential risks of multiple sclerosis development: a preliminary study
Authors: Wigner Paulina , Dziedzic Angela , Synowiec Ewelina , Miller Elzbieta , Bijak Michal , Saluk-Bijak Joanna
Published: June 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by a variable clinical course and diverse pathophysiology, including nitrative and oxidative stresses as well as inflammation. We aimed to detect the potential association between five selected single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding nitric oxide synthetases as well as antioxidant enzymes and the development of MS in a Polish population. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood collected from 142 MS patients and 140 controls. Using Taq-Man® probes, we genotyped the following SNPs: rs1879417 in NOS1, and rs2297518 in NOS2 as well as rs4880 in SOD2, rs7943316 in CAT, rs713041 in GPX4. In the case of rs2297518, the C/C genotype and C allele SNP were associated with an enhanced occurrence of MS, while the C/T, T/T genotypes, and T allele of the same polymorphism reduced this risk. Moreover, the C/C homozygote and C allele of the rs4880 SNP reduced MS risk, while the T allele increased the risk. In addition, the A/T heterozygote of rs7943316 polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of MS occurrence. We also detected that the C/C genotype and C allele of rs713041 decreased the risk of MS, whereas the T/T genotype and T allele increased this risk. In conclusion, the results of our study suggest some links between polymorphic variability in the nitrative/oxidative stress-related genes and the risk of MS development in the Polish population.
Neurogenic effects of rotarod walking exercise in subventricular zone, subgranular zone, and substantia nigra in MPTP-induced Parkinson’s disease mice
Authors: Leem Yea-Hyun , Park Jin-Sun , Park Jung-Eun , Kim Do-Yeon , Kim Hee-Sun
Published: June 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease, and its incidence is predicted to increase worldwide. Striatal dopamine depletion caused by substantia nigra (SN) degeneration is a pathological hallmark of PD and is strongly associated with cardinal motor and non-motor symptoms. Previous studies have reported that exercise increases neuroplasticity and promotes neurorestoration by increasing neurotrophic factors and synaptic strength and stimulating neurogenesis in PD. In the present study, we found that rotarod walking exercise, a modality of motor skill learning training, improved locomotor disturbances and reduced nigrostriatal degeneration in the subacute 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of PD. In addition, our exercise regimen improved MPTP-induced perturbation of adult neurogenesis in some areas of the brain, including the subventricular zone, subgranular zone, SN, and striatum. Moreover, rotarod walking activated the phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and induced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in these regions. The results suggest that motor skill learning training using rotarod walking improves adult neurogenesis and restores motor performance by modulating the AMPK/BDNF pathway. Therefore, our findings provide evidence for neuroprotective effects and improved neuroplasticity in PD through motor skill learning training.
CF-PPiD technology based on cell-free protein array and proximity biotinylation enzyme for in vitro direct interactome analysis
Authors: Sugiyama Shusei , Yamada Kohdai , Denda Miwako , Yamanaka Satoshi , Ozawa Satoshi , Morishita Ryo , Sawasaki Tatsuya
Published: June 2022

Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis is a key process to understand protein functions. Recently, we constructed a human protein array (20 K human protein beads array) consisting of 19,712 recombinant human proteins produced by a wheat cell-free protein production system. Here, we developed a cell-free protein array technology for proximity biotinylation-based PPI identification (CF-PPiD). The proximity biotinylation enzyme AirID-fused TP53 and -IκBα proteins each biotinylated specific interacting proteins on a 1536-well magnetic plate. In addition, AirID-fused cereblon was shown to have drug-inducible PPIs using CF-PPiD. Using the human protein beads array with AirID-IκBα, 132 proteins were biotinylated, and then selected clones showed these biological interactions in cells. Although ZBTB9 was not immunoprecipitated, it was highly biotinylated by AirID-IκBα, suggesting that this system detected weak interactions. These results indicated that CF-PPiD is useful for the biochemical identification of directly interacting proteins.
Chicken-derived RSPO1 and WNT3 contribute to maintaining longevity of chicken intestinal organoid cultures
Authors: Oost Miriam J. , Ijaz Adil , van Haarlem Daphne A. , van Summeren Kitty , Velkers Francisca C. , Kraneveld Aletta D. , Venema Koen , Jansen Christine A. , Pieters Raymond H. H. , ten Klooster Jean Paul
Published: June 2022

Intestinal organoids are advanced cellular models, which are widely used in mammalian studies to mimic and study in vivo intestinal function and host–pathogen interactions. Growth factors WNT3 and RSPO1 are crucial for the growth of intestinal organoids. Chicken intestinal organoids are currently cultured with mammalian Wnt3a and Rspo1, however, maintaining their longevity has shown to be challenging. Based on the limited homology between mammalian and avian RSPO1, we expect that chicken-derived factors are required for the organoid cultures. Isolated crypts from embryonic tissue of laying hens were growing in the presence of chicken WNT3 and RSPO1, whereas growth in the presence of mammalian Wnt3a and Rspo1 was limited. Moreover, the growth was increased by using Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and a Forkhead box O1-inhibitor (FOXO1-inhibitor), allowing to culture these organoids for 15 passages. Furthermore, stem cells maintained their ability to differentiate into goblets, enterocytes and enteroendocrine cells in 2D structures. Overall, we show that chicken intestinal organoids can be cultured for multiple passages using chicken-derived WNT3 and RSPO1, PGE2, and FOXO1-inhibitor.
Hematologic and plasma biochemical prognostic indicators for stranded free-ranging phocids presented for rehabilitation
Authors: Vail Matthew , Beaufrère Hugues , Gallini Stefan , Paluch Hubert , Brandão João , DiGeronimo Peter M.
Published: June 2022

This retrospective study used data obtained from medical records of 530 stranded free-ranging harbor (Phoca vitulina), grey (Halichoerus grypus), harp (Pagophilus groenlandicus), and hooded seals (Cystophora cristata) presented to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, New Jersey from January 1998 through December 2016. The objective was to identify hematological and plasma biochemical parameters of seals at time of presentation that were associated with successful rehabilitation and with duration of hospitalization using univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. At presentation, animals that subsequently survived rehabilitation had greater alkaline phosphatase activity and absolute lymphocyte and total calcium concentrations and lower blood urea nitrogen, sodium, chloride, phosphorus, and total bilirubin concentrations and lower aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities than animals that eventually died or were euthanized while under care. Results suggest that young, actively growing animals are more likely to survive rehabilitation and that bloodwork consistent with dehydration, systemic disease, and exhaustion are negative prognostic indicators. These results provide prognostic indicators that may aid clinical decision-making for seals presented for rehabilitation.
PEG2000-DBCO surface coating increases intracellular uptake of liposomes by breast cancer xenografts
Authors: Liu Daxing , Cohen Jules , Turkman Nashaat
Published: June 2022

Given our interest in the utility of liposomes for molecular imaging and theranostics, we investigated how coating the outer layer of the liposome affects internalization by breast cancer cell lines in vitro and in breast tumor tissues in vivo. Indeed, we discovered that a remarkably high liposomal uptake can be achieved by DBCO (dibenzocyclooctyne) soft coating. Our data demonstrates that decorating the terminal lipid with a DBCO moiety at a specific density induces increased tumor uptake in vivo (tumor uptake ~ 50%) compared to conventional undecorated liposome (tumor uptake ~ 20%). In this study, we report improved visualization of breast cancer cells in vivo using a 4T1 orthotopic breast cancer model and primary breast tumor xenograft models MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436. L-PEG2000-DBCO coated liposomes demonstrate increased accumulation in breast cancer cells independent of tumor size, type, position, receptor expression, as well as the condition of the host mice. We expect these findings to have a major positive impact on the practical utility of liposomes in image-guided applications and precision medicine theranostics.
Serum anti-malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde IgA antibody concentration improves prediction of coronary atherosclerosis beyond traditional risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lomzenski Hannah E. , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Duryee Michael J. , Chen Sheau-Chiann , Ye Fei , Anderson Daniel R. , Mikuls Ted R. , Ormseth Michelle J.
Published: June 2022

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have increased atherosclerosis; oxidative stress may be a contributor. Oxidative stress produces immunogenic malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde (MAA) protein adducts and anti-MAA antibodies are detectable in human serum. We hypothesized that anti-MAA antibody concentrations are associated with coronary atherosclerosis in RA patients. Serum concentrations of anti-MAA antibodies (IgA, IgG, and IgM) were measured in 166 RA patients using ELISA cross-sectionally. Relationship between anti-MAA antibody concentrations and cardiovascular and metabolic measures and predictive accuracy of anti-MAA antibodies for presence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) and high CAC (≥ 300 Agatston units or ≥ 75th percentile) were assessed. Only serum IgA anti-MAA antibody concentration was associated with increased CAC, insulin resistance, and decreased high-density lipoprotein particle number. When added as an interaction term with ACC/AHA 10-year risk score plus high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, IgA anti-MAA antibody concentration improved the C-statistic for prediction of any CAC and high CAC compared to ACC/AHA 10-year risk score plus hs-CRP alone. IgA anti-MAA concentration is associated with multiple cardiovascular risk factors and modifies the relationship between ACC/AHA 10-year risk score and CAC in RA patients. IgA anti-MAA concentration could assist in prediction of atherosclerotic CVD and risk stratification when added to standard measures of cardiovascular risk.
A phylogenetic approach to study the evolution of somatic mutational processes in cancer
Authors: Miura Sayaka , Vu Tracy , Choi Jiyeong , Townsend Jeffrey P. , Karim Sajjad , Kumar Sudhir
Published: June 2022

Cancer cell genomes change continuously due to mutations, and mutational processes change over time in patients, leaving dynamic signatures in the accumulated genomic variation in tumors. Many computational methods detect the relative activities of known mutation signatures. However, these methods may produce erroneous signatures when applied to individual branches in cancer cell phylogenies. Here, we show that the inference of branch-specific mutational signatures can be improved through a joint analysis of the collections of mutations mapped on proximal branches of the cancer cell phylogeny. This approach reduces the false-positive discovery rate of branch-specific signatures and can sometimes detect faint signatures. An analysis of empirical data from 61 lung cancer patients supports trends based on computer-simulated datasets for which the correct signatures are known. In lung cancer somatic variation, we detect a decreasing trend of smoking-related mutational processes over time and an increasing influence of APOBEC mutational processes as the tumor evolution progresses. These analyses also reveal patterns of conservation and divergence of mutational processes in cell lineages within patients.
Orange-emissive carbon quantum dots for ligand-directed Golgi apparatus-targeting and in vivo imaging
Authors: Wei Ying Ying , Chen Lin , Zhang Xin , Du Jing Lei , Li Qiang , Luo Jing , Liu Xu Guang , Yang Yong Zhen , Yu Shi Ping , Gao Yu Duan
Published: June 2022

Golgi apparatus-targeting imaging is realized by carbon quantum dots with orange-emission based ligand–receptor binding strategy.
Gold-dispersed hierarchical flower-like copper oxide microelectrodes for the sensitive detection of glucose and lactic acid in human serum and urine
Authors: Arivazhagan Mani , Maduraiveeran Govindhan
Published: June 2022

Self-supported gold dispersed copper oxide microflowers on copper microelectrodes as a sensitive platform for glucose and lactic acid sensing in human serum and urine samples is demonstrated.
Enhancement of metal ion-induced hole transfer on the water oxidation performance of a BiVO4 photoanode
Authors: Han Wenjun , Fang Fan , Zhang Yaqian , Li Xue , Wang Tao , Su Zhiyuan , Chang Kun
Published: June 2022

Transition metal ions facilitate the separation and transfer of holes, thereby enhancing the PEC performance of BiVO4.
Unsaturated amido-substituted six-vertex mixed silicon germanium clusters
Authors: Helmer Joschua , Droste Jörn , Hansen Michael Ryan , Hepp Alexander , Lips Felicitas
Published: June 2022

Mixed silicon and germanium clusters SixGe6−x{N(SiMe3)Dipp}41–3 (x= 3.7, 3.1, 2.1) with amido-substituents and two ligand-free Ge atoms were obtained in co-reductions using {N(SiMe3)Dipp}SiBr3and {N(SiMe3)Dipp}GeBr3in three different ratios.
Structural and optical characterization of nanoalloys mixing gold or silver with aluminium or indium: evolution under various reactive environments
Authors: Camus Élise , Pellarin Michel , Blanchard Nicholas , Boisron Olivier , Hillenkamp Matthias , Roiban Lucian , Andreazza Pascal , Cottancin Emmanuel
Published: June 2022

The atomic and chemical structure and the optical response of AxB1−x bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) combining gold or silver (A) with aluminium or indium (B) were investigated at various stoichiometries.
Mosquito-inspired design of resistive antennae for ultrasensitive acoustic detection
Authors: Wang Kaixuan , Gong Shu , Zhang Yuxin , Yap Lim Wei , Cheng Wenlong
Published: June 2022

A mosquito-inspired 1D acoustic sensor is reported, comprising repeating soft joints (cracked Pt film) and rigid segments (non-cracked Pt film). By adjusting the joint positions and densities, we can fine-tune the acoustic sensing performance.
Room temperature giant magnetoresistance in half-metallic Cr2C based two-dimensional tunnel junctions
Authors: Das Shreeja , Kabiraj Arnab , Mahapatra Santanu
Published: June 2022

Cr2C is a half-metallic 2D ferromagnet possessing high Curie temperature. We disclose very high magnetoresistance and spin injection efficiency in Cr2C based magnetic tunnel junctions, making it suitable for room temperature spintronic applications.
Preparation, properties and applications of near-infrared fluorescent silicate nanosheets
Authors: Selvaggio Gabriele , Kruss Sebastian
Published: June 2022

The ancient pigments Egyptian Blue (CaCuSi4O10, EB), Han Blue (BaCuSi4O10, HB) and Han Purple (BaCuSi2O6, HP) can be easily exfoliated into 2D nanosheets (NS). Their outstanding properties of high and broad technological potential are reviewed.
Strain engineering and the hidden role of magnetism in monolayer VTe2
Authors: Kiem Do Hoon , Jeong Min Yong , Yoon Hongkee , Han Myung Joon
Published: June 2022

‘Hidden’ antiferromagnetism is shown to be the key to stabilize the observed ground state and to clarify the controversial issues in this material. This finding also provides a way to manipulate the material properties through strain.
Diverse and chemoselective sigmatropic shift rearrangements of multisubstituted N,O-diarylhydroxylamines
Authors: Zhang Guangyu , Sun Simin , Hou Shili , Xu Jiaxi
Published: June 2022

Designed multisubstituted N,O-diarylhydroxylamines were prepared from N-acyl-N-arylhydroxylamines and aryl halides with ortho and/or para-EWG(s) (or arylbornic acids) and they underwent diverse and chemoselective sigmatropic shift rearrangements.
Recent advances in C–F bond activation of trifluoromethylated carbonyl compounds and derivatives
Authors: Gong Xuanming , Zhou Qin , Yan Guobing
Published: June 2022

The selective functionalization of inert C–F bonds in trifluoromethylated carbonyl compounds has been summarized and the reaction mechanisms are also discussed.
Molecularly engineered dual-crosslinked elastomer vitrimers with superior strength, improved creep resistance, and retained malleability
Authors: Wang Lin , Liu Yingjun , Qiao Yunhe , Wang Yuli , Cui Ziwen , Zhu Shaoyi , Dong Fuwei , Fang Sikun , Du Aihua
Published: June 2022

Preparation of covalently crosslinked elastomers with an integration of high mechanical performance, enhanced creep resistance and retained malleability by incorporating quadruple hydrogen bonds into dynamic boronic ester bonds crosslinked SBR.
In vitro and in silico studies of SARS-CoV-2 main protease Mpro inhibitors isolated from Helichrysum bracteatum
Authors: Wahab Gehad Abdel , Aboelmaaty Walaa S. , Lahloub Mohamed Farid , Sallam Amal
Published: June 2022

Compounds isolated and identified from Helichrysum bracteatum leaves showed promising in vitro inhibitory activities against SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro). Thus, could be considered suitable drug leads for developing anti-COVID-19 therapeutics.
Bond strength regime dictates stress relaxation behavior
Authors: Sacligil Ipek , Barney Christopher W. , Crosby Alfred J. , Tew Gregory N.
Published: June 2022

This work utilizes in situ crosslinked dynamic networks to show differences in stress-relaxation behavior depending on the bond strength of the metal–ligand crosslinker used.
Profiles of Swallowing Impairment in a Cohort of Patients With Reduced Tongue Strength Within 3 Months of Cerebral Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Smaoui Sana , Peladeau-Pigeon Melanie , Mancopes Renata , Sutton Danielle , Richardson Denyse , Steele Catriona M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Patients with poststroke dysphagia may experience inefficient bolus clearance or inadequate airway protection. Following a stroke, impairments in lingual pressure generation capacity are thought to contribute to oropharyngeal dysphagia. The goal of our study was to determine whether similar profiles of swallowing impairment would be seen across a cohort of patients with reduced tongue strength within 3 months after cerebral ischemic stroke.

Method:

The sample comprised six adults with reduced tongue strength (i.e., maximum anterior isometric pressure < 40 kPa). Participants underwent a videofluoroscopy according to a standard protocol. Post hoc blinded ratings were completed using the Analysis of Swallowing Physiology: Events, Kinematics and Timing Method and coded as “typical” versus “atypical” (i.e., within vs. outside the healthy interquartile range) in comparison to published reference values.

Results:

The videofluoroscopies suggested that having reduced tongue strength did not translate into a common profile. Of the six participants, two showed Penetration–Aspiration Scale (PAS) scores of ≥ 3 on thin liquids, associated with incomplete laryngeal vestibule closure (LVC). Another two participants displayed PAS scores of 2 (transient penetration), but these were not associated with incomplete LVC. Pharyngeal residue, above the healthy 75th percentile, was seen for three participants. Five participants presented with atypical reductions in hyoid XY peak position.

Conclusions:

In this cohort of adults within 3 months of cerebral ischemic stroke, reductions in tongue strength presented alongside a variety of changes in swallowing physiology. There was no straightforward relationship linking reduced tongue strength to particular patterns of impairment on videofluoroscopy.
Small‐disturbance stability of a concentrating solar power collecting system with multiple synchronous generators
Authors: Du Wenjuan , Ma Zhicheng , Lai Linchen , Liu Jun , Fu Qiang , Wang Haifeng
Published: June 2022

This paper examines the small‐disturbance stability in planning a concentrating solar power collecting system (CSPCS) with multiple concentrating solar power (CSP) generation plants, which are modelled as synchronous generators (SGs). The examination indicates that an oscillation mode of the CSPCS gradually moves to the right half of complex plane when the planned number of the CSP generation plants increases. Such oscillatory instability is different with the low‐frequency electromechanical power oscillations (LEPOs) in a conventional multi‐machine power system, because the unstable oscillation mode is associated with the excitation systems, rather than the electromechanical dynamics of the SGs. Analysis is carried out in the paper to explain why the instability risk found in the planning is associated with the excitation systems instead of electromechanical dynamics of the SGs. The analysis helps to understand the finding made in the planning. Furthermore, rules are proposed to adjust the gain of feedback loop of the excitation systems to eliminate the risk of oscillatory instability. This suggests that the parameters’ setting of excitation systems recommended by the IEEE standard may need to be modified to accommodate the planning of CSPCS. Tests are presented to demonstrate and evaluate the analysis and conclusions made.
Problems of Removing Loos Biological Material from a Vacuum Accumulator
Authors: Tyszczuk Krzysztof , Domek Grzegorz , Kołodziej Andrzej
Published: June 2022

Precise fragmentizer RPW17-TN he allows to the crumbling oily materials of biological (flax seeds, white mustard). The ambition of the product of crumbling from the reservoir is the indispensable element of the process. The introduction of pneumatic transportation changes the working arrangement and the fall of the efficiency of the process of crumbling causes, even to the zero –what joins with blocking fragmentizer. The discussion was undertaken in the article over the possible law suits and constructional solutions of the industrial use of emptying the hypotensive reservoir.
Selecting a Flat Belts for the Model of Coupling with Flat Belts
Authors: Domek Grzegorz , Krawiec Piotr , Kołodziej Andrzej
Published: June 2022

Mechanical gears with flat belts are currently the most intensively developing group of mechanical transmissions. This is due to the need to increase the speed of moving elements of machines and to transfer torque over considerable distances. This intensive development has enabled the development of materials engineering and the emergence of modern materials in the production of belts. An example would be the use of Kevlar and modern Carbon fibers. Analysis of the latest flat belt designs against the background of the whole group of these gears allows to indicate how to choose a belt for the gear so that coupling with the wheel is optimal. For this purpose, the model of coupling was analyzed again for modern drive. Modeling of this process is a solution to the age-old problem of choosing the right belt for a belt transmission.
Experimental and Numerical Modal Analysis of the Glass Composite Plate Damaged by Cut
Authors: Vavro Ján , Vavro Ján , Ondrušová Darina , Klímek Lukáš
Published: June 2022

The given paper is closely connected with the experimental and numerical modal analysis of the glass composite plate damaged by cut. In relation to the tested glass composite, modal analysis was performed by help of special measuring device Pulse 12. The mentioned device was supplied by company Brüel&Kjearand the experimental measurements were carried out using damaged and undamaged plate sample which were prepared from the mentioned material hereinbefore. The investigated and analyzed plates of glass composite were made of six layers of glassfibres and they were arranged under the angle 90º (it is like fabric material made off glassfibres). The layers arranged in the given way were joined by epoxide resin MGS 285. The experimental measurement of natural frequencies of glass composite plates was carried out using the undamaged and damaged sample with proportions 78 mm x 78 mm while ten measurements were performed for each one specified site of the sample. In relation to the damaged plate sample, there wascut length 20 mm in the centre border. The finite element method in the software system ADINA v.8.6.2 was used for numerical analysis of the natural frequencies.
Interest of periodontal maintenance in improving autoimmune diseases: about an oral lichen planus case report
Authors: Petagna Clement , Bocqueho Laure , Framery Camille , Ferrec Gwenola , Herry Heloise , Misery Laurent , Boisramé Sylvie
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Oral lichen planus is an autoimmune inflammatory disease. These clinical manifestations can sometimes be confused and cumulated with clinical signs of periodontal disorders. The aim of this work is to illustrate the interest of a periodontal follow-up in the management of oral lichen planus by a clinical case report. Observation: A patient came for a consultation in dermatology for a persistent gingival erythema. The diagnosis of oral lichen planus was made and treatments were successively implemented. After six months of follow-up, an inflammatory gum was still present without showing improvement. A stage 3, grade B periodontitis associated with oral lichen planus was diagnosed and a periodontal treatment was initiated, combined with corticosteroids treatment as mouthwash. Four months after the beginning of this treatment, a marked decrease in gingival erythema was observed. Comments: There is often a close relationship between oral lichen planus and periodontal disease therefore a multidisciplinary approach can be very useful for optimal management.