bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal consistency of source-space spectral power and functional connectivity using different magnetoencephalography recording systems
Authors: Boon Lennard I. , Tewarie Prejaas , Berendse Henk W. , Stam Cornelis J. , Hillebrand Arjan
Published: August 2021

Longitudinal analyses of magnetoencephalography (MEG) data are essential for a full understanding of the pathophysiology of brain diseases and the development of brain activity over time. However, time-dependent factors, such as the recording environment and the type of MEG recording system may affect such longitudinal analyses. We hypothesized that, using source-space analysis, hardware and software differences between two recordings systems may be overcome, with the aim of finding consistent neurophysiological results. We studied eight healthy subjects who underwent three consecutive MEG recordings over 7 years, using two different MEG recordings systems; a 151-channel VSM-CTF system for the first two time points and a 306-channel Elekta Vectorview system for the third time point. We assessed the within (longitudinal) and between-subject (cross-sectional) consistency of power spectra and functional connectivity matrices. Consistency of within-subject spectral power and functional connectivity matrices was good and was not significantly different when using different MEG recording systems as compared to using the same system. Importantly, we confirmed that within-subject consistency values were higher than between-subject values. We demonstrated consistent neurophysiological findings in healthy subjects over a time span of seven years, despite using data recorded on different MEG systems and different implementations of the analysis pipeline.
Assessment of magnetic flux density properties of electromagnetic noninvasive phrenic nerve stimulations for environmental safety in an ICU environment
Authors: Kuhn K. Friedrich , Grunow Julius J. , Leimer Pascal , Lorenz Marco , Berger David , Schefold Joerg C. , Weber-Carstens Steffen , Schaller Stefan J.
Published: August 2021

Diaphragm weakness affects up to 60% of ventilated patients leading to muscle atrophy, reduction of muscle fiber force via muscle fiber injuries and prolonged weaning from mechanical ventilation. Electromagnetic stimulation of the phrenic nerve can induce contractions of the diaphragm and potentially prevent and treat loss of muscular function. Recommended safety distance of electromagnetic coils is 1 m. The aim of this study was to investigate the magnetic flux density in a typical intensive care unit (ICU) setting. Simulation of magnetic flux density generated by a butterfly coil was performed in a Berlin ICU training center with testing of potential disturbance and heating of medical equipment. Approximate safety distances to surrounding medical ICU equipment were additionally measured in an ICU training center in Bern. Magnetic flux density declined exponentially with advancing distance from the stimulation coil. Above a coil distance of 300 mm with stimulation of 100% power the signal could not be distinguished from the surrounding magnetic background noise. Electromagnetic stimulation of the phrenic nerve for diaphragm contraction in an intensive care unit setting seems to be safe and feasible from a technical point of view with a distance above 300 mm to ICU equipment from the stimulation coil.
Deep negative volume segmentation
Authors: Belikova Kristina , Rogov Oleg Y. , Rybakov Aleksandr , Maslov Maxim V. , Dylov Dmitry V.
Published: August 2021

Clinical examination of three-dimensional image data of compound anatomical objects, such as complex joints, remains a tedious process, demanding the time and the expertise of physicians. For instance, automation of the segmentation task of the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) has been hindered by its compound three-dimensional shape, multiple overlaid textures, an abundance of surrounding irregularities in the skull, and a virtually omnidirectional range of the jaw’s motion—all of which extend the manual annotation process to more than an hour per patient. To address the challenge, we invent a new workflow for the 3D segmentation task: namely, we propose to segment empty spaces between all the tissues surrounding the object—the so-called negative volume segmentation. Our approach is an end-to-end pipeline that comprises a V-Net for bone segmentation, a 3D volume construction by inflation of the reconstructed bone head in all directions along the normal vector to its mesh faces. Eventually confined within the skull bones, the inflated surface occupies the entire “negative” space in the joint, effectively providing a geometrical/topological metric of the joint’s health. We validate the idea on the CT scans in a 50-patient dataset, annotated by experts in maxillofacial medicine, quantitatively compare the asymmetry given the left and the right negative volumes, and automate the entire framework for clinical adoption.
Synthesis of ursodeoxycholic acid by electrochemical stereoselective reduction of 7-ketolithocholic acid in aprotic solvents
Authors: Shen Jinxue , Dong Dongdong , Wang Zefa , Wan Junfen , Cao Xuejun
Published: August 2021

A novel method of producing ursodeoxycholic acid was developed through electrochemical stereoselective reduction of 7-ketolithocholic acid (7K-LCA) in a undivided electrolytic cell and aprotic solvents as electrolyte. Five aprotic solvents were investigated as electrolytes, the simple structure of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) were easily attacked by chloride ions and undergo nucleophilic reactions, resulting in no target reactions. The structure of hexamethylphosphoric triamide (HMPA) and 1,3-methyl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2 (1H) -pyrimidinone (DMPU) is relatively complex, but chloride ions can still attack them, and it was easier for 7K-LCA to directly undergo a reduction reaction under the action of electric current, because of the small steric hindrance of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), 7K-LCA was stereoselectively reduced to CDCA. Due to the stable structure of the five-membered imidazole ring of 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone (DMI), 7K-LCA undergoes two nucleophilic and a "Walden inversion", thereby stereoselective reduction of 7K-LCA to UDCA. In DMI, the highest conversion rate of 7K-LCA was 58.3%, the yield of UDCA was 34.9%, ee value was 100%. Linear sweep voltammetry was used to explore the electrochemical behavior of the reaction, and the electrolysis results were consistent with the linear sweep voltammetry. The product was characterized by using IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR, it confirm the product was UDCA. The method developed in this paper provides a relatively environmentally friendly and low-consumption method for large-scale production of ursodeoxycholic acid, and provides a valuable reference for the asymmetric electrochemical reduction of ketone groups.
Transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses identify candidate pathways linking maternal cadmium exposure to altered neurodevelopment and behavior
Authors: Hudson Kathleen M. , Shiver Emily , Yu Jianshi , Mehta Sanya , Jima Dereje D. , Kane Maureen A. , Patisaul Heather B. , Cowley Michael
Published: August 2021

Cadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous toxic heavy metal of major public concern. Despite inefficient placental transfer, maternal Cd exposure impairs fetal growth and development. Increasing evidence from animal models and humans suggests maternal Cd exposure negatively impacts neurodevelopment; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. To address this, we utilized multiple -omics approaches in a mouse model of maternal Cd exposure to identify pathways altered in the developing brain. Offspring maternally exposed to Cd presented with enlarged brains proportional to body weights at birth and altered behavior at adulthood. RNA-seq in newborn brains identified exposure-associated increases inHoxgene and myelin marker expression and suggested perturbed retinoic acid (RA) signaling. Proteomic analysis showed altered levels of proteins involved in cellular energy pathways, hypoxic response, and RA signaling. Consistent with transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, we identified increased levels of retinoids in maternally-exposed newborn brains. Metabolomic analyses identified metabolites with significantly altered abundance, supportive of changes to cellular energy pathways and hypoxia. Finally, maternal Cd exposure reduced mitochondrial DNA levels in newborn brains. The identification of multiple pathways perturbed in the developing brain provides a basis for future studies determining the mechanistic links between maternal Cd exposure and altered neurodevelopment and behavior.
Evaluation of drought resistance and transcriptome analysis for the identification of drought-responsive genes in Iris germanica
Authors: Zhang Jingwei , Huang Dazhuang , Zhao Xiaojie , Zhang Man
Published: August 2021

Iris germanica, a species with very high ornamental value, exhibits the strongest drought resistance among the species in the genus Iris, but the molecular mechanism underlying its drought resistance has not been evaluated. To investigate the gene expression profile changes exhibited by high-drought-resistant I. germanica under drought stress, 10 cultivars with excellent characteristics were included in pot experiments under drought stress conditions, and the changes in the chlorophyll (Chl) content, plasma membrane relative permeability (RP), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), free proline (Pro), and soluble protein (SP) levels in leaves were compared among these cultivars. Based on their drought-resistance performance, the 10 cultivars were ordered as follows: ‘Little Dream’ > ‘Music Box’ > ‘X’Brassie’ > ‘Blood Stone’ > ‘Cherry Garden’ > ‘Memory of Harvest’ > ‘Immortality’ > ‘White and Gold’ > ‘Tantara’ > ‘Clarence’. Using the high-drought-resistant cultivar ‘Little Dream’ as the experimental material, cDNA libraries from leaves and rhizomes treated for 0, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h with 20% polyethylene glycol (PEG)-6000 to simulate a drought environment were sequenced using the Illumina sequencing platform. We obtained 1, 976, 033 transcripts and 743, 982 unigenes (mean length of 716 bp) through a hierarchical clustering analysis of the resulting transcriptome data. The unigenes were compared against the Nr, Nt, Pfam, KOG/COG, Swiss-Prot, KEGG, and gene ontology (GO) databases for functional annotation, and the gene expression levels in leaves and rhizomes were compared between the 20% PEG-6000 stress treated (6, 12, 24, and 48 h) and control (0 h) groups using DESeq2. 7849 and 24,127 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from leaves and rhizomes, respectively. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of the DEGs revealed significantly enriched KEGG pathways, including ribosome, photosynthesis, hormone signal transduction, starch and sucrose metabolism, synthesis of secondary metabolites, and related genes, such as heat shock proteins (HSPs), transcription factors (TFs), and active oxygen scavengers. In conclusion, we conducted the first transcriptome sequencing analysis of the I. germanica cultivar ‘Little Dream’ under drought stress and generated a large amount of genetic information. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms underlying the responses of I. germanica to drought stress and provides valuable genetic resources for the breeding of drought-resistant plants.
Control of the stochastic response of magnetization dynamics in spin-torque oscillator through radio-frequency magnetic fields
Authors: Tsunegi Sumito , Taniguchi Tomohiro , Suzuki Daiki , Yakushiji Kay , Fukushima Akio , Yuasa Shinji , Kubota Hitoshi
Published: August 2021

Neuromorphic computing using spintronic devices, such as spin-torque oscillators (STOs), has been intensively studied for energy-efficient data processing. One of the critical issues in this application is stochasticity in magnetization dynamics, which limits the accuracy of computation. Such stochastic behavior, however, plays a key role in stochastic computing and machine learning. It is therefore important to develop methods for both suppressing and enhancing stochastic response in spintronic devices. We report on experimental investigations on control of stochastic quantity, such as the width of a distribution of transient time in magnetization dynamics in vortex-type STO. The spin-transfer effect can suppress stochasticity in transient dynamics from a non-oscillating to oscillating state, whereas an application of a radio-frequency magnetic field is effective in reducing stochasticity on the time evolution of the oscillating state.
Chemical and isotopic characterization of the thermal fluids emerging along the North–Northeastern Greece
Authors: Dotsika E. , Dalampakis P. , Spyridonos E. , Diamantopoulos G. , Karalis P. , Tassi M. , Raco B. , Arvanitis A. , Kolios N. , Michelot J. L.
Published: August 2021

Hydrochemical and isotopic characteristics of fluids from major geothermal fields of middle/low temperature in N/NE Greece are examined [basins: Strymon River (SR), Nestos River Delta (ND), Xanthi–Komotini (XK), Loutros–Feres–Soufli (LFS) and Rhodope Massif]. The geodynamic context is reflected to isotopic/chemical composition of fluids, heat flow values and elevated CO2 concentrations in emitted fluids. B and Li are derived from leaching of the geothermal systems hosting rocks. δ18OH2O, δ18OSO4, δ13CCO2 values and chemical compositions of Cl, B and Li of geothermal discharges suggest two distinct source fluids. Fluids in SR exhibit high B/Cl and Li/Cl ratios, suggesting these constituents are derived from associated magmas of intermediate composition (andesitic rocks). Geothermal discharges in LFS exhibit low B/Cl and Li/Cl ratios, implying acid (rhyolitic) magmatism. δ13CCO2 and CO2/(CO2 + 105He) ratios in the west part, suggest fluids affected by addition of volatiles released from subducted marine sediments. For the eastern systems, these ratios suggest gas encountered in systems issued from mixing of crustal and mantle-derived volatiles. Isotopic geothermometers reflect, for the same direction, equilibrium processes more (LFS, XK) or less (SR) pronounced and discriminate the geothermal field from low to middle [SR, ND (Erasmio)] and middle to high enthalpy [ND (Eratino), LFS, XK].
Lactobacillus fermentum PS150 promotes non-rapid eye movement sleep in the first night effect of mice
Authors: Lin Alexander , Shih Ching-Ting , Chu Hsu-Feng , Chen Chieh-Wen , Cheng Yu-Ting , Wu Chien-Chen , Yang Cheryl C. H. , Tsai Ying-Chieh
Published: August 2021

The first night effect (FNE) is a type of sleep disturbance caused by an unfamiliar environment, which leads to difficulty falling asleep and reduced sleep duration. Previously, we reported that Lactobacillus fermentum PS150 (PS150) improves sleep conditions in a pentobarbital-induced sleep mouse model. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of PS150 on the FNE in mice. Briefly, mice were implanted with electrodes and orally administered PS150 for four weeks, and then the FNE was induced by cage changing. Analysis of polysomnographic signals revealed that intervention with PS150 restored non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep length under the FNE. Compared to diphenhydramine, a commonly used sleep aid, PS150 had no unwanted side effects, such as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation and fragmented sleep. Moreover, temporal analysis revealed that PS150 efficiently reduced both sleep latency and time spent restoring normal levels of REM sleep. Taken together, these results suggest that PS150 efficiently ameliorates sleep disturbance caused by the FNE. Additionally, V3–V4 16S rRNA sequencing revealed significant increases in Erysipelotrichia, Actinobacteria, and Coriobacteriia in fecal specimens of the PS150-treated group, indicating that PS150 induces gut microbiota remodeling.
Distribution of trace elements in benthic infralittoral organisms from the western Antarctic Peninsula reveals no latitudinal gradient of pollution
Authors: De Castro-Fernández Paula , Cardona Luis , Avila Conxita
Published: August 2021

Antarctica is considered one of the most pristine regions on Earth, but evidences of global and local anthropogenic pollution exist. Chromium (Cr), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) are bioaccumulated and sometimes biomagnified through the trophic web. We aim to determine whether a latitudinal gradient of these trace elements exists in benthic organisms along the rocky shores of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Levels of Cr, Pb, and Hg were measured by ICP-MS in two macroalgae (Palmaria decipiens and Desmarestia anceps or Desmarestia menziesii), one gastropod (Nacella concinna), two starfishes (Odontaster validus and Diplasterias brucei), and suspended particulate organic matter (SPOM) from five sampling sites ranging in latitude from 62°11′17″S to 67°33′47″S. Levels of trace elements differed among sites and species, but no latitudinal gradient was observed for these pollutants. Levels of Hg and Pb in animals were consistent with biomagnifications along the food web, as were higher is starfish than in limpets. However, macroalgae and SPOM are unlikely to be the main primary producers supporting those consumers, as Hg levels in macroalgae and Pb levels in SPOM were much higher than in animals. The levels of trace elements detected were similar or higher than in other Antarctic places and other regions of the world, thus indicating that the Antarctic Peninsula area is as polluted as the rest of the world.
Molecular and functional characterization of detrusor PDGFRα positive cells in spinal cord injury-induced detrusor overactivity
Authors: Lee Ken , Park Sang O , Choi Pil-Cho , Ryoo Seung-Bum , Lee Haeyeong , Peri Lauren E. , Zhou Tong , Corrigan Robert D. , Yanez Andrew C. , Moon Suk B. , Perrino Brian A. , Sanders Kenton M. , Koh Sang Don
Published: August 2021

Volume accommodation occurs via a novel mechanism involving interstitial cells in detrusor muscles. The interstitial cells in the bladder are PDGFRα+, and they restrain the excitability of smooth muscle at low levels and prevents the development of transient contractions (TCs). A common clinical manifestation of spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced bladder dysfunction is detrusor overactivity (DO). Although a myogenic origin of DO after SCI has been suggested, a mechanism for development of SCI-induced DO has not been determined. In this study we hypothesized that SCI-induced DO is related to loss of function in the regulatory mechanism provided by PDGFRα+cells. Our results showed that transcriptional expression ofPdgfraandKcnn3was decreased after SCI. Proteins encoded by these genes also decreased after SCI, and a reduction in PDGFRα+cell density was also documented. Loss of PDGFRα+cells was due to apoptosis. TCs in ex vivo bladders during filling increased dramatically after SCI, and this was related to the loss of regulation provided by SK channels, as we observed decreased sensitivity to apamin. These findings show that damage to the mechanism restraining muscle contraction during bladder filling that is provided by PDGFRα+cells is causative in the development of DO after SCI.
Proteomic profile and morphological characteristics of skeletal muscle from the fast- and slow-growing yellow perch (Perca flavescens)
Authors: Kwasek Karolina , Choi Young Min , Wang Hanping , Lee Kichoon , Reddish John Mark , Wick Macdonald
Published: August 2021

The objective of the present study was to compare skeletal muscle proteomic profiles, histochemical characteristics, and expression levels of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) between fast- versus slow-growing yellow perch Perca flavescens and identify the proteins/peptides that might play a crucial role in the muscle growth dynamic. Yellow perch were nursed in ponds for 6 weeks from larval stage and cultured in two meter diameter tanks thereafter. The fingerlings were graded to select the top 10% and bottom 10% fish which represented fast- and slow-growing groups (31 yellow perch per each group). Our statistical analyses showed 18 proteins that had different staining intensities between fast- and slow-growing yellow perch. From those proteins 10 showed higher expression in slow-growers, and 8 demonstrated higher expression in fast-growers. Fast-growing yellow perch with a greater body weight was influenced by both the muscle fiber hypertrophy and mosaic hyperplasia compared to slow-growing fish. These hyperplastic and hypertrophic growth in fast-grower were associated with not only metabolic enzymes, including creatine kinase, glycogen phosphorylase, and aldolase, but also myoD and myogenin as MRFs. Overall, the results of the present study contribute to the identification of different expression patterns of gene products in fast- and slow-growing fish associated with their muscle growth.
Tumor size improves the accuracy of the prognostic prediction of T4a stage colon cancer
Authors: Liang Yuexiang , Li Qiang , He Donglei , Chen Yong , Li Jingquan
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of tumor size on the long-term outcome of colon cancer (CC) patients after curative surgery. A total of 782 curatively resected T4a stage CC patients without distant metastasis were enrolled. Patients were categorized into 2 groups according to the best threshold of tumor size: larger group (LG) and smaller group (SG). Propensity score matching was used to adjust for the differences in baseline characteristics. The ideal cutoff point of tumor size was 5 cm. In the multivariate analysis for the whole study series, tumor size was an independent prognostic factor. Patients in the LG had significant lower 5-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) rates (OS: 63.5% versus 75.2%, P < 0.001; RFS: 59.5% versus 72.4%, P < 0.001) than those in the SG. After matching, patients in the LG still demonstrated significant lower 5-year OS and RFS rates than those in the SG. The modified tumor-size-node-metastasis (mTSNM) staging system including tumor size was found to be more appropriate for predicting the OS and RFS of T4a stage CC than TNM stage, and the -2log likelihood of the mTSNM staging system was smaller than the value of TNM stage. In conclusion, tumor size was an independent prognostic factor for OS and RFS. We maintain that tumor size should be incorporated into the staging system to enhance the accuracy of the prognostic prediction of T4a stage CC patients.
Identification and characterization of early Fusarium wilt responsive mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs in banana root using high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Cheng Chunzhen , Liu Fan , Tian Na , Mensah Raphael Anue , Sun Xueli , Liu Jiapeng , Wu Junwei , Wang Bin , Li Dan , Lai Zhongxiong
Published: August 2021

Fusarium wilt disease, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense (Foc), has been recognized as the most devastating disease to banana. The regulatory role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in plant defense has been verified in many plant species. However, the understanding of their role during early FocTR4 (Foc tropical race 4) infection stage is very limited. In this study, lncRNA sequencing was used to reveal banana root transcriptome profile changes during early FocTR4 infection stages. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to confirm the expression of eight differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs (DELs) and their predicted target genes (DETs), and three DE genes (DEGs). Totally, 12,109 lncRNAs, 36,519 mRNAs and 2642 novel genes were obtained, of which 1398 (including 78 DELs, 1220 DE known genes and 100 DE novel genes) were identified as FocTR4 responsive DE transcripts. Gene function analysis revealed that most DEGs were involved in biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, plant–pathogen interaction, plant hormone signal transduction, phenylalanine metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism and so on. Coincidently, many DETs have been identified as DEGs in previous transcriptome studies. Moreover, many DETs were found to be involved in ribosome, oxidative phosphorylation, lipoic acid metabolism, ubiquitin mediated proteolysis, N-glycan biosynthesis, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and DNA damage response pathways. QRT-PCR result showed the expression patterns of the selected transcripts were mostly consistent with our lncRNA sequencing data. Our present study showed the regulatory role of lncRNAs on known biotic and abiotic stress responsive genes and some new-found FocTR4 responsive genes, which can provide new insights into FocTR4-induced changes in the banana root transcriptome during the early pathogen infection stage.
MOF-derived Co2+-doped TiO2 nanoparticles as photoanodes for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Krishnapriya R. , Nizamudeen C. , Saini B. , Mozumder M. Sayem , Sharma Rakesh K. , Mourad A.-H. I.
Published: August 2021

Facile synthesis and application of nano-sized semiconductor metal oxides for optoelectronic devices have always affected fabrication challenges since it involves multi-step synthesis processes. In this regard, semiconductor oxides derived directly from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) routes have gained a great deal of scientific interest owing to their high specific surface area, regular and tunable pore structures. Exploring the application potential of these MOF-derived semiconductor oxides systems for clean energy conversion and storage devices is currently a hot topic of research. In this study, titanium-based MIL-125(Ti) MOFs were used as a precursor to synthesize cobalt-doped TiO2-based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) for the first time. The thermal decomposition of the MOF precursor under an air atmosphere at 400 °C resulted in mesoporous anatase-type TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) of uniform morphology, large surface area with narrow pore distribution. The Co2+ doping in TiO2 leads to enhanced light absorption in the visible region. When used as photoanode in DSSCs, a good power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.86% with good photocurrent density (Jsc) of 13.96 mA cm−2 was obtained with the lowest recombination resistance and the longest electron lifetime, which is better than the performance of the pristine TiO2-based photoanode.
Studying the effect of alpha-synuclein and Parkinson’s disease linked mutants on inter pathway connectivities
Authors: Sen Sagnik , Dey Ashmita , Maulik Ujjwal
Published: August 2021

Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disease. The differential expression of alpha-synuclein within Lewy Bodies leads to this disease. Some missense mutations of alpha-synuclein may resultant in functional aberrations. In this study, our objective is to verify the functional adaptation due to early and late-onset mutation which can trigger or control the rate of alpha-synuclein aggregation. In this regard, we have proposed a computational model to study the difference and similarities among the Wild type alpha-synuclein and mutants i.e., A30P, A53T, G51D, E46K, and H50Q. Evolutionary sequence space analysis is also performed in this experiment. Subsequently, a comparative study has been performed between structural information and sequence space outcomes. The study shows the structural variability among the selected subtypes. This information assists inter pathway modeling due to mutational aberrations. Based on the structural variability, we have identified the protein–protein interaction partners for each protein that helps to increase the robustness of the inter-pathway connectivity. Finally, few pathways have been identified from 12 semantic networks based on their association with mitochondrial dysfunction and dopaminergic pathways.
Therapeutic efficacy of macrolides in management of patients with mild COVID-19
Authors: Rashad Alaa , Nafady Asmaa , Hassan Mohammed H. , Mansour Haggagy , Taya Usama , Bazeed Shamardan Ezzeldin S. , Aref Zaki F. , Sayed Mennatallah Ali Abdelrhman , Nafady-Hego Hanaa , Abdelmaksoud Aida A.
Published: August 2021

Evidence on the efficacy of adding macrolides (azithromycin or clarithromycin) to the treatment regimen for COVID-19 is limited. We testify whether adding azithromycin or clarithromycin to a standard of care regimen was superior to standard of supportive care alone in patients with mild COVID-19.This randomized trial included three groups of patients with COVID-19. The azithromycin group included, 107 patients who received azithromycin 500 mg/24 h for 7 days, the clarithromycin group included 99 patients who received clarithromycin 500 /12 h for 7 days, and the control group included 99 patients who received standard care only. All three groups received only symptomatic treatment for control of fever and cough .Clinical and biochemical evaluations of the study participants including assessment of the symptoms duration, real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum ferritin, D-dimer, complete blood count (CBC), in addition to non-contrast chest computed tomography (CT), were performed. The overall results revealed significant early improvement of symptoms (fever, dyspnea and cough) in patients treated with either azithromycin or clarithromycin compared to control group, also there was significant early conversion of SARS-CoV-2 PCR to negative in patients treated with either azithromycin or clarithromycin compared to control group (p < 0.05 for all).There was no significant difference in time to improvement of fever, cough, dyspnea, anosmia, gastrointestinal tract "GIT" symptoms and time to PCR negative conversion between patients treated with azithromycin compared to patients treated with clarithromycin (p > 0.05 for all). Follow up chest CT done after 2 weeks of start of treatment showed significant improvement in patients treated with either azithromycin or clarithromycin compared to control group (p < 0.05 for all).Adding Clarithromycin or azithromycin to the therapeutic protocols for COVID-19 could be beneficial for early control of fever and early PCR negative conversion in Mild COVID-19.

Trial registration: (NCT04622891) www.ClinicalTrials.gov retrospectively registered (November 10, 2020).
Identification of genes, pathways and transcription factor-miRNA-target gene networks and experimental verification in venous thromboembolism
Authors: Su Yiming , Li Qiyi , Zheng Zhiyong , Wei Xiaomin , Hou Peiyong
Published: August 2021

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a complex, multifactorial life-threatening disease that involves vascular endothelial cell (VEC) dysfunction. However, the exact pathogenesis and underlying mechanisms of VTE are not completely clear. The aim of this study was to identify the core genes and pathways in VECs that are involved in the development and progression of unprovoked VTE (uVTE). The microarray dataset GSE118259 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and 341 up-regulated and 8 down-regulated genes were identified in the VTE patients relative to the healthy controls, including CREB1, HIF1α, CBL, ILK, ESM1 and the ribosomal protein family genes. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and the transcription factor (TF)-miRNA-target gene network were constructed with these differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and visualized using Cytoscape software 3.6.1. Eighty-nine miRNAs were predicted as the targeting miRNAs of the DEGs, and 197 TFs were predicted as regulators of these miRNAs. In addition, 237 node genes and 4 modules were identified in the PPI network. The significantly enriched pathways included metabolic, cell adhesion, cell proliferation and cellular response to growth factor stimulus pathways. CREB1 was a differentially expressed TF in the TF-miRNA-target gene network, which regulated six miRNA-target gene pairs. The up-regulation of ESM1, HIF1α and CREB1 was confirmed at the mRNA and protein level in the plasma of uVTE patients. Taken together, ESM1, HIF1α and the CREB1-miRNA-target genes axis play potential mechanistic roles in uVTE development.
Juvenile social defeat stress exposure favors in later onset of irritable bowel syndrome-like symptoms in male mice
Authors: Matsumoto Kenjiro , Takata Kana , Yamada Daisuke , Usuda Haruki , Wada Koichiro , Tada Maaya , Mishima Yoshiyuki , Ishihara Shunji , Horie Syunji , Saitoh Akiyoshi , Kato Shinichi
Published: August 2021

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder. Traumatic stress during adolescence increases the risk of IBS in adults. The aim of this study was to characterize the juvenile social defeat stress (SDS)-associated IBS model in mice. Juvenile mice were exposed to an aggressor mouse for 10 min once daily for 10 consecutive days. Behavioral tests, visceral sensitivity, immune responses, and fecal bacteria in the colon were evaluated in 5 weeks after SDS exposure. Social avoidance, anxiety- and depression-like behavior, and visceral hypersensitivity were observed. Juvenile SDS exposure significantly increased the number of 5-HT-containing cells and calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive neurons in the colon. The gut microbiota was largely similar between the control and juvenile SDS groups. The alterations in fecal pellet output, bead expulsion time, plasma corticosterone concentration, and colonic 5-HT content in response to restraint stress were exacerbated in the juvenile SDS group compared with the control group. The combination of juvenile SDS and restraint stress increased the noradrenaline metabolite 3-Methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) content and MHPG/noradrenaline ratio in the amygdala when compared with restraint stress in control mice. These results suggest that juvenile SDS exposure results in later onset of IBS-like symptoms.
Ketogenesis controls mitochondrial gene expression and rescues mitochondrial bioenergetics after cervical spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Seira Oscar , Kolehmainen Kathleen , Liu Jie , Streijger Femke , Haegert Anne , Lebihan Stéphane , Boushel Robert , Tetzlaff Wolfram
Published: August 2021

A better understanding of the secondary injury mechanisms that occur after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is essential for the development of novel neuroprotective strategies linked to the restoration of metabolic deficits. We and others have shown that Ketogenic diet (KD), a high fat, moderate in proteins and low in carbohydrates is neuroprotective and improves behavioural outcomes in rats with acute SCI. Ketones are alternative fuels for mitochondrial ATP generation, and can modulate signaling pathways via targeting specific receptors. Here, we demonstrate that ad libitum administration of KD for 7 days after SCI rescued mitochondrial respiratory capacity, increased parameters of mitochondrial biogenesis, affected the regulation of mitochondrial-related genes, and activated the NRF2-dependent antioxidant pathway. This study demonstrates that KD improves post-SCI metabolism by rescuing mitochondrial function and supports the potential of KD for treatment of acute SCI in humans.
Identification of a pathway for electron uptake in Shewanella oneidensis
Authors: Rowe Annette R. , Salimijazi Farshid , Trutschel Leah , Sackett Joshua , Adesina Oluwakemi , Anzai Isao , Kugelmass Liat H. , Baym Michael H. , Barstow Buz
Published: August 2021

Extracellular electron transfer (EET) could enable electron uptake into microbial metabolism for the synthesis of complex, energy dense organic molecules from CO2 and renewable electricity1–6. Theoretically EET could do this with an efficiency comparable to H2-oxidation7,8 but without the need for a volatile intermediate and the problems it causes for scale up9. However, significant gaps remain in understanding the mechanism and genetics of electron uptake. For example, studies of electron uptake in electroactive microbes have shown a role for the Mtr EET complex in the electroactive microbe Shewanella oneidensis MR-110–14, though there is substantial variation in the magnitude of effect deletion of these genes has depending on the terminal electron acceptor used. This speaks to the potential for previously uncharacterized and/or differentially utilized genes involved in electron uptake. To address this, we screened gene disruption mutants for 3667 genes, representing ≈99% of all nonessential genes, from the S. oneidensis whole genome knockout collection using a redox dye oxidation assay. Confirmation of electron uptake using electrochemical testing allowed us to identify five genes from S. oneidensis that are indispensable for electron uptake from a cathode. Knockout of each gene eliminates extracellular electron uptake, yet in four of the five cases produces no significant defect in electron donation to an anode. This result highlights both distinct electron uptake components and an electronic connection between aerobic and anaerobic electron transport chains that allow electrons from the reversible EET machinery to be coupled to different respiratory processes in S. oneidensis. Homologs to these genes across many different genera suggesting that electron uptake by EET coupled to respiration could be widespread. These gene discoveries provide a foundation for: studying this phenotype in exotic metal-oxidizing microbes, genetic optimization of electron uptake in S. oneidensis; and genetically engineering electron uptake into a highly tractable host like E. coli to complement recent advances in synthetic CO2 fixation15.
Effects of secretome derived from macrophages exposed to calcium oxalate crystals on renal fibroblast activation
Authors: Yoodee Sunisa , Noonin Chadanat , Sueksakit Kanyarat , Kanlaya Rattiyaporn , Chaiyarit Sakdithep , Peerapen Paleerath , Thongboonkerd Visith
Published: August 2021

The association between kidney stone disease and renal fibrosis has been widely explored in recent years but its underlying mechanisms remain far from complete understanding. Using label-free quantitative proteomics (nanoLC-ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap MS/MS), this study identified 23 significantly altered secreted proteins from calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM)-exposed macrophages (COM-MP) compared with control macrophages (Ctrl-MP) secretome. Functional annotation and protein-protein interactions network analysis revealed that these altered secreted proteins were involved mainly in inflammatory response and fibroblast activation. BHK-21 renal fibroblasts treated with COM-MP secretome had more spindle-shaped morphology with greater spindle index. Immunofluorescence study and gelatin zymography revealed increased levels of fibroblast activation markers (α-smooth muscle actin and F-actin) and fibrotic factors (fibronectin and matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -2) in the COM-MP secretome-treated fibroblasts. Our findings indicate that proteins secreted from macrophages exposed to COM crystals induce renal fibroblast activation and may play important roles in renal fibrogenesis in kidney stone disease.
Rapid and sensitive leukemia-derived exosome quantificationvianicking endonuclease-assisted target recycling
Authors: Zhou Mengyang , Li Chao , Wang Baolong , Huang Lin
Published: August 2021

Principle of a rapid and sensitive platform for exosomes detection.
Sammon's mapping regression for the quantitative analysis of glucose from both mid infrared and near infrared spectra
Authors: Patchava Krishna Chaitanya , Ge Shuzhi Sam , Benaissa Mohammed
Published: August 2021

This paper investigates the use of Sammon's mapping regression in the context of prediction of glucose concentration from both mid infrared and near infrared spectra.
Evaluation of a fully automated and completely quantitative allergen-specific IgE and total IgE detection assay
Authors: Huang Huimin , Huang Zhifeng , Zheng Peiyan , Wei Nili , Liang Xueqing , Li Wanjia , Sun Baoqing
Published: August 2021

Based on the current urgent need for an in vitro quantitative detection system for allergens in China, we introduced a novel allergen sIgE detection system that employs a solid phase enzyme-linked immunoassay and evaluated its clinical performance.
Segmental and site-specific isotope labelling strategies for structural analysis of posttranslationally modified proteins
Authors: Vogl Dominik P. , Conibear Anne C. , Becker Christian F. W.
Published: August 2021

Selective isotope labeling facilitates the analysis of effects of posttranslational modifications on protein structure and function.
Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline by constructing a controllable Cu2O–TiO2heterojunction with specific crystal facets
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Han Dongfang , Dai Mengjiao , Chen Ke , Han Zhiyun , Fan Yingying , He Ying , Han Dongxue , Niu Li
Published: August 2021

Type II heterojunction of 100Cu2O–TiO2exhibits enhanced photodegradation rate of TC at the sacrifice of absolute decomposition, while 111Cu2O–TiO2Z-scheme heterojunction displays simultaneous increased degradation rate and profound decomposition.
Intercalates of Bi2Se3 studied in situ by time-resolved powder X-ray diffraction and neutron diffraction
Authors: Kamminga Machteld E. , Cassidy Simon J. , Jana Partha P. , Elgaml Mahmoud , Kelly Nicola D. , Clarke Simon J.
Published: August 2021

New lithium amide/ammonia intercalates of Bi2Se3 are revealed using in situ X-ray powder diffraction.
Mechanistic insights into the α-branched amine formation with pivalic acid assisted C–H bond activation catalysed by Cp*Rh complexes
Authors: Li Rongrong , Yang Xinzheng
Published: August 2021

Density functional theory calculations and electronic structure analyses provided mechanistic insights into the rhodium catalysed α-branched amine formation and the selectivity for α-branched amines over β-branched amines.
Antimony diiminopyridine complexes
Authors: Tidwell John R. , Dutton Jason L. , Martin Caleb D.
Published: August 2021

The stoichiometric reactions of antimony trichloride, trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate, and diiminopyridine ligands lead to the formation of the first antimony diiminopyridine complexes.
Do germanium-based photoinitiators have the potential to replace the well-established acylphosphine oxides?
Authors: Wiesner Tanja , Haas Michael
Published: August 2021

This frontier article highlights the importance of recently developed germanium-based photoinitiators in comparison with acylphosphine oxides. Their synthesis, performance, toxicity and availability are presented with advantages and drawbacks.
Accessing the triplet manifold of naphthalene benzimidazole–phenanthroline in rhenium(i) bichromophores
Authors: Wells Kaylee A. , Yarnell James E. , Sheykhi Sara , Palmer Jonathan R. , Yonemoto Daniel T. , Joyce Rosalynd , Garakyaraghi Sofia , Castellano Felix N.
Published: August 2021

Two new Re(i) metal–organic bichromophores containing a phenanthroline appended perinone are shown to quantitatively generate extremely long-lived triplet ligand-centered excited states.
Implications of in situ chalcogen substitutions in polysulfides for rechargeable batteries
Authors: Nanda Sanjay , Bhargav Amruth , Jiang Zhou , Zhao Xunhua , Liu Yuanyue , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: August 2021

Selenium and tellurium in Li–S batteries: formation of polyselenosulfides enables improved sulfur redox kinetics while formation of polytellurosulfides improves lithium cycling efficiency.
Significant differences of NH3-SCR performances between monoclinic and hexagonal WO3 on Ce-based catalysts
Authors: Liu Shuang , Yao Pan , Pei Ming-Ming , Lin Qing-Jin , Xu Shu-Hao , Wang Jian-Li , Xu Hai-Di , Chen Yao-Qiang
Published: August 2021

Compared with that of WO3-monoclinic (W-m), the special open structure of WO3-hexagonal (W-h) facilitates the interaction between W-h and Ce as well as improves the acidity and redox properties of Ce–W-h, reflecting its excellent NH3-SCR activity.
Sesamol supplementation alleviates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and atherosclerosis in high-fat, high carbohydrate and high-cholesterol diet-fed rats
Authors: Yang Yang , Qu Yuan , Lv Xiaoqiang , Zhao Ruijin , Yu Jing , Hu Suying , Kang Jingqi , Zhang Yaling , Gong Ye , Cui Tingting , Zhang Xin , Yan Yaping
Published: August 2021

Sesamol alleviated NASH and atherosclerosis and regulated the generation of uric acid and activation of uric acid-linked signal pathways in HF-HCC diet-fed rats; it may, therefore, be a potent dietary supplement for protection against these diseases.
Extraction kinetics, physicochemical properties and immunomodulatory activity of the novel continuous phase transition extraction of polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Liu Guo , Zhang Jun , Hou Tao , An Siyu , Guo Baoyan , Liu Cencen , Hu Liuyun , Huang Yahui , Zhang Shuai , Song Mingyue , Cao Yong
Published: August 2021

A novel continuous phase transition extraction method was first used to obtain Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides with high yield. The morphology of Ganoderma lucidum and the immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides were studied.
Bi-mode electrolyte-gated synaptic transistorviaadditional ion doping and its application to artificial nociceptors
Authors: Yu Rengjian , Yan Yujie , Li Enlong , Wu Xiaomin , Zhang Xianghong , Chen Jinwei , Hu Yuanyuan , Chen Huipeng , Guo Tailiang
Published: August 2021

This work proposed a bi-mode electrolyte-gated synaptic transistor. Benefiting from two controllable dynamic processes, this device could achieve multilevel modulation of sensitivity, which can serve as a stable artificial nociceptor.
Pseudocapacitive trimetallic NiCoMn-111 perovskite fluorides for advanced Li-ion supercabatteries
Authors: Yan Tong , Huang Yongfa , Ding Rui , Shi Wei , Ying Danfeng , Jia Ziyang , Tan Caini , Huang Yuxi , Sun Xiujuan , Liu Enhui
Published: August 2021

A novel Li-ion supercabattery (LICB) was constructed from a trimetallic NiCoMn-111 perovskite fluoride with a pseudocapacitive dominant conversion mechanism.
Concentric chiral nematic polymeric fibers from cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Momeni Arash , Walters Christopher M. , Xu Yi-Tao , Hamad Wadood Y. , MacLachlan Mark J.
Published: August 2021

A cellulose nanocrystal liquid crystalline suspension was mixed with monomers and confined to a capillary tube. After photopolymerization, a fiber with a single-domain concentric chiral nematic structure throughout the length of the fiber was obtained.
Understanding the modulation effect and surface chemistry in a heteroatom incorporated graphene-like matrix toward high-rate lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhao Zhenxin , Yi Zonglin , Li Huijun , Pathak Rajesh , Cheng Xiaoqin , Zhou Junliang , Wang Xiaomin , Qiao Qiquan
Published: August 2021

The graphene-like carbon network helps in improving the affinity for polysulfides and reduces the shuttle effect. Nitrogen and phosphorus act as bifunctional active sites and further reduce the activation energy, leading to superior rate capability.
Coupling plasmonic catalysis and nanocrystal growth through cyclic regeneration of NADH
Authors: Sánchez-Iglesias Ana , Kruse Joscha , Chuvilin Andrey , Grzelczak Marek
Published: August 2021

Plasmonic catalysis in flow (light reaction) coupled to the nucleation and growth of other metallic nanoparticles (dark reaction) was achieved by cyclic reduction/oxidation of cofactor molecules.
Stepwise B–H bond activation of a meta-carborane
Authors: Liu Xin-Ran , Cui Peng-Fei , Guo Shu-Ting , Yuan Run-Ze , Jin Guo-Xin
Published: August 2021

Stepwise multiple B–H bond activation is a major challenge in synthetic chemistry.
Wide range color tunability and efficient energy transfer of novel NaCaGd(WO4)3:Tb3+,Eu3+ phosphors with excellent thermal stability for pc-WLEDs
Authors: Xie Jihuan , Cheng Liqun , Tang He , Wang Zhongxue , Sun Haiying , Lu Liping , Mi Xiaoyun , Liu Quansheng , Zhang Xiyan
Published: August 2021

The CIE chromaticity diagram of NCGW:0.6Tb3+,yEu3+ (y = 0–0.4) phosphors assigned to 1–8 along with the corresponding digital photograph excited by 254 nm light and the normalized intensity of the NCGW:0.6Tb3+,0.1Eu3+ phosphor at various temperatures.
Anchoring Zn0.5Cd0.5S solid solution onto 2D porous Co–CoO nanosheets for highly improved photocatalytic H2 generation
Authors: Gao Xueyou , Zeng Deqian , Zeng Qingru , Xie Zongzhuo , Fujita Toyohisa , Wang Xinpeng , He Gang , Wei Yuezhou
Published: August 2021

Two-dimensional porous Co–CoO nanosheets act as an efficient cocatalyst to reduce the HER overpotential and boost the charge separation of Zn0.5Cd0.5S nanocrystals.