bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects of activity limitations among older adults in 23 low and middle income countries
Authors: Weber Daniela , Scherbov Sergei
Published: June 2020

Increasing life expectancy and a growing share of older people around the world spotlight the issue of health during additional years of life. Research on trends of proportions of older people with activity limitations for low and middle income countries is sparse. We use data from the World Health Survey and the UN World Population Prospects to predict prevalence of activity limitations for 23 low and middle income countries for the upcoming 30 years. Our projections highlight huge variation in the proportion of older adults with limitations across investigated countries and this variation is not expected to diminish. However, these countries are facing considerable demographic changes and even though prevalence rates appear almost constant, absolute numbers are changing which require policy interventions. Furthermore, variations across countries reflect not only disparities in health conditions, but also differences in cultural peculiarities of reporting and historical perception of health.
Longitudinal analysis on parasite diversity in honeybee colonies: new taxa, high frequency of mixed infections and seasonal patterns of variation
Authors: Bartolomé Carolina , Buendía-Abad María , Benito María , Sobrino Beatriz , Amigo Jorge , Carracedo Angel , Martín-Hernández Raquel , Higes Mariano , Maside Xulio
Published: June 2020

To evaluate the influence that parasites have on the losses of Apis mellifera it is essential to monitor their presence in the colonies over time. Here we analysed the occurrence of nosematids, trypanosomatids and neogregarines in five homogeneous colonies for up to 21 months until they collapsed. The study, which combined the use of several molecular markers with the application of a massive parallel sequencing technology, provided valuable insights into the epidemiology of these parasites: (I) it enabled the detection of parasite species rarely reported in honeybees (Nosema thomsoni, Crithidia bombi, Crithidia acanthocephali) and the identification of two novel taxa; (II) it revealed the existence of a high rate of co-infections (80% of the samples harboured more than one parasite species); (III) it uncovered an identical pattern of seasonal variation for nosematids and trypanosomatids, that was different from that of neogregarines; (IV) it showed that there were no significant differences in the fraction of positive samples, nor in the levels of species diversity, between interior and exterior bees; and (V) it unveiled that the variation in the number of parasite species was not directly linked with the failure of the colonies.
Prefrontal - subthalamic pathway supports action selection in a spatial working memory task
Authors: Heikenfeld Carla , Mederos Sara , Chen Changwan , Korotkova Tatiana , Schnitzler Alfons , Ponomarenko Alexey
Published: June 2020

Subthalamic nucleus (STN) is the main source of feed-forward excitation in the basal ganglia and a main target of therapeutic deep brain stimulation in movement disorders. Alleviation of motor symptoms during STN stimulation can be accompanied by deterioration of abilities to quickly choose between conflicting alternatives. Cortical afferents to the subthalamic region (ST), comprising STN and zona incerta (ZI), include projections from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), yet little is known about prefrontal-subthalamic coordination and its relevance for decision-making. Here we combined electrophysiological recordings with optogenetic manipulations of projections from mPFC to ST in mice as they performed a spatial working memory task (T-maze) or explored an elevated plus maze (anxiety test). We found that gamma oscillations (30–70 Hz) are coordinated between mPFC and ST at theta (5–10 Hz) and, less efficiently, at sub-theta (2–5 Hz) frequencies. An optogenetic detuning of the theta/gamma cross-frequency coupling between the regions into sub-theta range impaired performance in the T-maze, yet did not affect anxiety-related behaviors in the elevated plus maze. Both detuning and inhibition of the mPFC-ST pathway led to repeated incorrect choices in the T-maze. These effects were not associated with changes of anxiety and motor activity measures. Our findings suggest that action selection in a cognitively demanding task crucially involves theta rhythmic coordination of gamma oscillatory signaling in the prefrontal-subthalamic pathway.
Cold atmospheric plasma as an effective method to treat diabetic foot ulcers: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mirpour Shahriar , Fathollah Sara , Mansouri Parvin , Larijani Bagher , Ghoranneviss Mahmood , Mohajeri Tehrani Mohammadreza , Amini Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2020

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) was shown to decrease bacterial load in chronic wounds. It was also presented as a novel approach to healing wounds in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. We aimed to examine the first randomized clinical trial for the use of CAP in diabetic foot ulcers. Patients (n = 44) were randomly double-blinded, and assigned to receive standard care (SC, n = 22) without or with CAP, to be applied three times a week for three consecutive weeks (SC + CAP, n = 22), using block randomization with mixing block sizes of four. The trial was conducted at the Diabetes Research Center in Tehran, Iran. CAP was generated from ionized helium gas in ambient air, and driven by a high voltage (10 kV) and high frequency (6 kHz) power supply. Primary outcomes were wound size, number of cases reaching wound size of <0.5, and a bacterial load after over three weeks of treatment. CAP treatment effectively reduced the fraction of wound size (p = 0.02). After three weeks, the wounds to reach fraction wound size of ≤0.5 was significantly greater in the SC + CAP group (77.3%) compared to the SC group (36.4%) (p = 0.006). The mean fraction of bacterial load counted in each session ‘after CAP exposure’ was significantly less than ‘before exposure’ measures. CAP can be an efficient method to accelerate wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers, with immediate antiseptic effects that do not seem to last long.
A study of the desulfurization selectivity of a reductive and extractive desulfurization process with sodium borohydride in polyethylene glycol
Authors: Meng Xianglong , Zhou Pin , Li Lu , Liu Lizhong , Guo Mingming , Sun Tonghua
Published: June 2020

The selectivity of a facile reductive and extractive desulfurization process was studied. In this desulfurization method, polyethylene glycol was used as the extractant, and sodium borohydride was used as the reductant. Several different simulated fuels were prepared by dissolving thiophenic sulfides, methylbenzene and hexylene in octane. The results showed that methylbenzene and olefins had different effects on different sulfur compounds during this desulfurization process. The extraction and reduction mechanisms were also explained. Four factors could affect the desulfurization performance: (1) intermolecular hydrogen bonding: (a) active O bonding with aromatic H or (b) S bonding with H atoms in hydroxide radicals, (2) “like-dissolves-like” interactions between polyethylene glycol and thiophenic sulfides, (3) the methyl steric hindrance effect and the electron density of sulfur atoms, and (4) the combination of S atoms with produced nickel boride to form active desulfurization centres. The desulfurization reaction path was also deduced according to the GC/MS results.
Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from purple glutinous rice bran (Oryza sativa L.) and their antioxidant activities
Authors: Surin Siriluck , You SangGuan , Seesuriyachan Phisit , Muangrat Rattana , Wangtueai Sutee , Jambrak Anet Režek , Phongthai Suphat , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Chaiyaso Thanongsak , Phimolsiripol Yuthana
Published: June 2020

Purple glutinous rice bran (Kum Doi Saket rice (KUM)) contains high content of edible polysaccharides and anthocyanins and has an excellent antioxidant activity. This research aimed to optimize the extraction of crude polysaccharides from defatted purple glutinous rice bran using an ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) and compared with a hot water extraction (HWE). Results showed that optimal extraction condition was as follows: a defatted rice bran to water ratio of 1:20 w/v, extraction temperature and time of 70 °C for 20 min. Under the optimal extraction condition, the yield of polysaccharide of UAE (4%) was significantly higher than that obtained from the HWE (0.8%). Additionally, antioxidant activities of extracted polysaccharide including IC50 value DPPH, IC50 value ABTS, and FRAP value were 1.09 mg/mL, 2.80 mg/mL and 197 µM Fe2+/g, respectively. It is suggested that the UAE process is promising method to decrease the processing time and to enhance extracted polysaccharide yields by 4 times.
Persistent warm Mediterranean surface waters during the Roman period
Authors: Margaritelli G. , Cacho I. , Català A. , Barra M. , Bellucci L. G. , Lubritto C. , Rettori R. , Lirer F.
Published: June 2020

Reconstruction of last millennia Sea Surface Temperature (SST) evolution is challenging due to the difficulty retrieving good resolution marine records and to the several uncertainties in the available proxy tools. In this regard, the Roman Period (1 CE to 500 CE) was particularly relevant in the socio-cultural development of the Mediterranean region while its climatic characteristics remain uncertain. Here we present a new SST reconstruction from the Sicily Channel based in Mg/Ca ratios measured on the planktonic foraminiferGlobigerinoides ruber. This new record is framed in the context of other previously published Mediterranean SST records from the Alboran Sea, Minorca Basin and Aegean Sea and also compared to a north Hemisphere temperature reconstruction. The most solid image that emerges of this trans-Mediterranean comparison is the persistent regional occurrence of a distinct warm phase during the Roman Period. This record comparison consistently shows the Roman as the warmest period of the last 2 kyr, about 2 °C warmer than average values for the late centuries for the Sicily and Western Mediterranean regions. After the Roman Period a general cooling trend developed in the region with several minor oscillations. We hypothesis the potential link between this Roman Climatic Optimum and the expansion and subsequent decline of the Roman Empire.
Mental representation and episodic-like memory of own actions in dogs
Authors: Fugazza Claudia , Pongrácz Péter , Pogány Ákos , Lenkei Rita , Miklósi Ádám
Published: June 2020

We investigated whether dogs remember their spontaneous past actions relying on episodic-like memory. Dogs were trained to repeat a small set of actions upon request. Then we tested them on their ability to repeat other actions produced by themselves, including actions performed spontaneously in everyday situations. Dogs repeated their own actions after delays ranging from a few seconds to 1 hour, with their performance showing a decay typical of episodic memory. The combined evidence of representing own actions and using episodic-like memory to recall them suggests a far more complex representation of a key feature of the self than previously attributed to dogs. Our method is applicable to various species, paving the way for comparative investigations on the evolution and complexity of self-representation.
Mercury as a Geophysical Tracer Gas - Emissions from the Emperor Qin Tomb in Xi´an Studied by Laser Radar
Authors: Zhao Guangyu , Zhang Weixing , Duan Zheng , Lian Ming , Hou Ningbin , Li Yiyun , Zhu Shiming , Svanberg Sune
Published: June 2020

Mercury is, because of its high vapor pressure and its prevalence in the atmosphere as atoms, an interesting geophysical tracer gas, also with potential archaeological applications. According to historical records dating back 2200 years, the mausoleum chamber of the “Terracotta Army Emperor” Qin in Xi´an, China, contains large amounts of liquid mercury, considered as an elixir of life at the time. We here report on measurements of the atmospheric contents of atomic mercury above the tomb mound performed with a mobile differential absorption lidar (light detection and ranging) system. Our measurements, which were performed from three different locations around the mound, indeed indicate elevated atmospheric mercury levels, with localizations, which correlate with previous in situ soil sampling results. Concentrations up to 27 ng/m3 were observed, significantly higher than the typical general pollutant level in the area which was found to be around 5–10 ng/m3. An out-flux of about 5×10−8 kg/s was estimated. Highly volatile mercury may be escaping through cracks, which developed in the structure over time, and our investigation supports ancient chronicle records on the tomb, which is believed never to have been opened/looted. Our findings also have bearings on the proposed use of mercury as a tracer gas for valuable ores and geothermal resource exploration, and also bring problematics around reliable nuclear waste long-term underground storage to mind.
High Areal Capacity Porous Sn-Au Alloys with Long Cycle Life for Li-ion Microbatteries
Authors: Patnaik Sai Gourang , Jadon Ankita , Tran Chau Cam Hoang , Estève Alain , Guay Daniel , Pech David
Published: June 2020

Long-term stability is one of the most desired functionalities of energy storage microdevices for wearable electronics, wireless sensor networks and the upcoming Internet of Things. Although Li-ion microbatteries have become the dominant energy-storage technology for on-chip electronics, the extension of lifetime of these components remains a fundamental hurdle to overcome. Here, we develop an ultra-stable porous anode based on SnAu alloys able to withstand a high specific capacity exceeding 100 µAh cm−2 at 3 C rate for more than 6000 cycles of charge/discharge. Also, this new anode material exhibits low potential (0.2 V versus lithium) and one of the highest specific capacity ever reported at low C-rates (7.3 mAh cm−2 at 0.1 C). We show that the outstanding cyclability is the result of a combination of many factors, including limited volume expansion, as supported by density functional theory calculations. This finding opens new opportunities in design of long-lasting integrated energy storage for self-powered microsystems.
Excess sulfur and Fe elements drive changes in soil and vegetation at abandoned coal gangues, Guizhou China
Authors: Ma Junyong , Quan Zhanjun , Sun Yibo , Du Jiaqiang , Liu Bo
Published: June 2020

Coal gangue piles accumulate outside mines and can persist for years, negatively impacting the regional environment. To determine the main cause of soil pollution at coal gangues, several coal gangues in Guizhou Province, China that had undergone natural recovery via native plants for 8 years were investigated in summer 2019. Three plots (2 m × 2 m) from the coal gangue area were selected for the treatment (GP). Control plots that were 100 m away from GP were also investigated in contrast (CK-near). In addition, plots from forest, farmland and lake land that were far from GP and largely undisturbed were also investigated as more extreme contrasts (CK-far). A series of soil indicators that can be affected by coal-gangue, such as heavy metals (Mn, Cr, Cd, Ni, Zn, Cu, Pb), As, pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), sulfur (S) and iron (Fe), were tested for in the plots. Plant species, coverage and height were also analyzed to uncover biodiversity and dominant species information. The results suggested that coal gangue significantly influences soil S, pH and plant species after 8 years of natural recovery. The CK-far plots contained relatively low soil sulfur content, normal pH (close to 7) and abundant plant biodiversity. Generally, pH related positively with both the Patrick (R = 0.79, n = 22, p < 0.001) and Shannon indices (R = 0.67, n = 22, p < 0.001); the soil S related negatively with both the Patrick (R = 0.85, n = 22, p < 0.001) and Shannon indices (R = − 0.79, n = 22, p < 0.001). S content was highest (S = 1.0%) in GP plots, was lower in CK-near plots (S = 0.3%) and was the lowest of all in the plots distant from the coal mine (S = 0.1%, CK-far). S content was negatively correlated with pH. Soil pH decreased significantly, from 7.0 in CK-far, to 5.9 in CK-near, to 4.2 in GP. Soil Fe was 3.4 times higher in GP and CK-near than in CK-far. The excess sulfur and Fe elements and the acidified soil drove changes in soil and vegetation in the coal gangue areas. After 8 years of natural recovery, only a few plants, like Miscanthus floridulus, were able to live near the coal gangue in the area where the soil was still acidic and high in S and Fe.
The β-adrenergic receptor antagonist propranolol offsets resistance mechanisms to chemotherapeutics in diverse sarcoma subtypes: a pilot study
Authors: Porcelli Letizia , Garofoli Marianna , Di Fonte Roberta , Fucci Livia , Volpicella Mariateresa , Strippoli Sabino , Guida Michele , Azzariti Amalia
Published: June 2020

Standard chemotherapy for soft tissue sarcomas has shown limited efficacy. Here, we sought to evaluate whether β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) signalling contributed to the progression of sarcomas and therapy resistance. To assess the translational potential of β-adrenergic receptors, we performed immunohistochemical detection of β1-AR, β2-AR and β3-AR in leiomyosarcoma, liposarcoma and angiosarcoma tissue specimens, reporting the results scored for the intensity. By using established and patient-derived sarcoma cells, we demonstrated the antitumour potential of the pharmacological targeting of β-ARs with the nonselective β-blocker propranolol in such sarcomas. Of note, pharmacological β-AR inhibition synergized with doxorubicin in inhibiting the cell viability of liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma cells and increased the response to docetaxel in angiosarcoma- and solitary fibrous tumour (SFT)-patient-derived cells. Notably, the SFT patient was treated with the combination of propranolol and docetaxel, reporting prolonged disease control. Mechanistically, we found that propranolol reduced the activity of the multidrug resistance efflux pump P-gp, thereby increasing the intracellular doxorubicin concentration and antitumour activity. In addition, propranolol attenuated the Akt-dependent survival signal induced by doxorubicin and strongly reduced the activation of the NF-kB/COX-2 pathway, increasing cell sensitivity to docetaxel. Overall, our study highlighted the therapeutic potential of propranolol, alone or in rational combination therapies, for sarcoma treatment.
Functional analysis of BPSS2242 reveals its detoxification role in Burkholderia pseudomallei under salt stress
Authors: Chamchoy Kamonwan , Pumirat Pornpan , Reamtong Onrapak , Pakotiprapha Danaya , Leartsakulpanich Ubolsree , Boonyuen Usa
Published: June 2020

A bpss2242 gene, encoding a putative short-chain dehydrogenase/oxidoreductase (SDR) in Burkholderia pseudomallei, was identified and its expression was up-regulated by ten-fold when B. pseudomallei was cultured under high salt concentration. Previous study suggested that BPSS2242 plays important roles in adaptation to salt stress and pathogenesis; however, its biological functions are still unknown. Herein, we report the biochemical properties and functional characterization of BPSS2242 from B. pseudomallei. BPSS2242 exhibited NADPH-dependent reductase activity toward diacetyl and methylglyoxal, toxic electrophilic dicarbonyls. The conserved catalytic triad was identified and found to play critical roles in catalysis and cofactor binding. Tyr162 and Lys166 are involved in NADPH binding and mutation of Lys166 causes a conformational change, altering protein structure. Overexpression of BPSS2242 in Escherichia coli increased bacterial survival upon exposure to diacetyl and methylglyoxal. Importantly, the viability of B. pseudomallei encountered dicarbonyl toxicity was enhanced when cultured under high salt concentration as a result of BPSS2242 overexpression. This is the first study demonstrating that BPSS2242 is responsible for detoxification of toxic metabolites, constituting a protective system against reactive carbonyl compounds in B. pseudomallei..
Clinicopathological characteristics and survival in colorectal signet ring cell carcinoma: a population-based study
Authors: Yang Luo-luo , Wang Min , He Ping
Published: June 2020

We aimed to reveal clinicopathological features and explore survival-related factors of colorectal signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC). A population-based study was carried out to investigate colorectal SRCC by using data extracted from the surveillance, epidemiology and end results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2015. In total, 3,278 patients with colorectal SRCC were identified, with a median age of 63 (12–103) years old. The lesions of most patients (60.49%) were located in the cecum–transverse colon. In addition, 81.27% patients had advanced clinical stage (stage III/IV), and 76.69% patients had high pathological grade. The 3–, 5–year cancer‐specific survival and overall survival rate was 35.76%, 29.32% and 32.32%, 25.14%. Multivariate analysis revealed that primary site in cecum–transverse colon, married, received surgery, lymph node dissections ≥ 4 regional lymph nodes were independent favorable prognostic. Meanwhile, aged ≥ 65 years, higher grade, tumor size ˃5 cm and advanced AJCC stage were associated with poor prognosis. Patient age, tumor grade, marital status, tumor size, primary tumor location, AJCC stage, surgery and number of dissected lymph node had significant correlation with prognosis of colorectal SRCC.
Real world data analysis of next generation sequencing and protein expression in metastatic breast cancer patients
Authors: Hempel Dirk , Ebner Florian , Garg Arun , Trepotec Zeljka , Both Armin , Stein Werner , Gaumann Andreas , Güttler Lucia , Janni Wolfgang , DeGregorio Amelie , Hempel Louisa , Milani Valeria
Published: June 2020

Next generation sequencing (NGS) together with protein expression analysis is back bone of molecularly targeted therapy in precision medicine. Our retrospective study shows our experience with NGS of 324 genes in combination with protein expression in patients with advanced breast cancer (aBC). The primary purpose was to analyze the prevalence of individual genetic alterations combined with protein expression to define potential targets for an individualized therapy. Between April 2018 and September 2019, 41 patients with aBC were offered a NGS test. The test was used to detect clinically relevant genomic alterations and to support further targeted therapy decisions. Hormone receptors, ERBB2 of tumors and PD-L1 was stained by immunohistochemistry. The data was recorded up to September 2019. After prior consent 41 results were available for further analysis. The most common BC subtypes were triple-negative (n = 16), HR+/ERBB2− (n = 15), and ERBB2+ (n = 9), with one missing data of the primary tumor. 27 patients had more than one genetic alteration. The most common alterations were PIK3CA (n = 14) and ERBB2 alterations (n = 11). Followed by ESR1 (n = 10), FGFR1 (n = 7) and PTEN (n = 7). 68% of the alterations were clinically relevant (tier I and II of ESCAT classification). The most common treatment recommendation was ERBB2-directed therapy (single or double blockade, trastuzumab emtansine and lapatinib) followed by alpelisib in combination with fulvestrant. Comprehensive genomic profiling combined with protein expression analysis in aBC allowed a guided personalized therapy for half of our patients. So far there are no well-defined tools allowing interpretations of genomic alterations detected by NGS in combination with protein expression and other factors.
Monitoring the molecular composition of live cells exposed to electric pulses via label-free optical methods
Authors: Azan Antoine , Grognot Marianne , García-Sánchez Tomás , Descamps Lucie , Untereiner Valérie , Piot Olivier , Gallot Guilhem , Mir Lluis M.
Published: June 2020

The permeabilization of the live cells membrane by the delivery of electric pulses has fundamental interest in medicine, in particular in tumors treatment by electrochemotherapy. Since underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood, we studied the impact of electric pulses on the biochemical composition of live cells thanks to label-free optical methods: confocal Raman microspectroscopy and terahertz microscopy. A dose effect was observed after cells exposure to different field intensities and a major impact on cell peptide/protein content was found. Raman measurements reveal that protein structure and/or environment are modified by the electric pulses while terahertz measurements suggest a leakage of proteins and other intracellular compounds. We show that Raman and terahertz modalities are a particularly attractive complement to fluorescence microscopy which is the reference optical technique in the case of electropermeabilization. Finally, we propose an analytical model for the influx and efflux of non-permeant molecules through transiently (electro)permeabilized cell membranes.
Decreased miR-200b-3p in cancer cells leads to angiogenesis in HCC by enhancing endothelial ERG expression
Authors: Moh-Moh-Aung Aye , Fujisawa Masayoshi , Ito Sachio , Katayama Hiroshi , Ohara Toshiaki , Ota Yoko , Yoshimura Teizo , Matsukawa Akihiro
Published: June 2020

Transcription factor ERG (erythroblast transformation-specific (ETS)-related gene) is essential in endothelial differentiation and angiogenesis, in which microRNA (miR)-200b-3p targeting site is expected by miRNA target prediction database. miR-200b is known decreased in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), however, the functional relation between ERG and miR-200b-3p, originating from pre-miR-200b, in HCC angiogenesis remains unclear. We investigated whether hepatocyte-derived miR-200b-3p governs angiogenesis in HCC by targeting endothelial ERG. Levels of miR-200b-3p in HCC tissues were significantly lower than those in adjacent non-HCC tissues. Poorly differentiated HCC cell line expressed lower level of miR-200b-3p compared to well-differentiated HCC cell lines. The numbers of ERG-positive endothelial cells were higher in HCC tissues than in adjacent non-HCC tissues. There was a negative correlation between the number of ERG-positive cells and miR-200b-3p expression in HCC tissues. Culture supernatants of HCC cell lines with miR-200b-3p-overexpression reduced cell migration, proliferation and tube forming capacity in endothelial cells relative to the control, while those with miR-200b-3p-inhibition augmented the responses. Exosomes isolated from HCC culture supernatants with miR-200b-3p overexpression suppressed endothelial ERG expression. These results suggest that exosomal miR-200b-3p from hepatocytes suppresses endothelial ERG expression, and decreased miR-200b-3p in cancer cells promotes angiogenesis in HCC tissues by enhancing endothelial ERG expression.
Effects of combining constraint-induced movement therapy and action-observation training on upper limb kinematics in children with unilateral cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Simon-Martinez Cristina , Mailleux Lisa , Jaspers Ellen , Ortibus Els , Desloovere Kaat , Klingels Katrijn , Feys Hilde
Published: June 2020

Modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) improves upper limb (UL) motor execution in unilateral cerebral palsy (uCP). As these children also show motor planning deficits, action-observation training (AOT) might be of additional value. Here, we investigated the combined value of AOT to mCIMT on UL kinematics in children with uCP in a randomized controlled trial. Thirty-six children with uCP completed an UL kinematic and clinical evaluation after participating in a 9-day mCIMT camp wearing a splint for 6 h/day. The experimental group (mCIMT + AOT, n = 20) received 15 h of AOT, i.e. video-observation and execution of unimanual tasks. The control group (mCIMT + placebo, n = 16) watched biological-motion free videos and executed the same tasks. We examined changes in motor control (movement duration, peak velocity, time-to-peak velocity, and trajectory straightness) and kinematic movement patterns (using Statistical Parametric Mapping) during the execution of three unimanual, relevant tasks before the intervention, after and at 6 months follow-up. Adding AOT to mCIMT mainly affected movement duration during reaching, whereas little benefit is seen on UL movement patterns. mCIMT, with or without AOT, improved peak velocity and trajectory straightness, and proximal movement patterns. Clinical and kinematic improvements are poorly related. Although there seem to be limited benefits of AOT to CIMT on UL kinematics, our results support the inclusion of kinematics to capture changes in motor control and movement patterns of the proximal joints.
Development of quantification software for evaluating body composition contents and its clinical application in sarcopenic obesity
Authors: Kim SeungJin , Kim Tae-Hoon , Jeong Chang-Won , Lee ChungSub , Noh SiHyeong , Kim Ji Eon , Yoon Kwon-Ha
Published: June 2020

In sarcopenic obesity, the importance of evaluating muscle and fat mass is unquestionable. There exist diverse quantification methods for assessing muscle and fat mass by imaging techniques; thus these methods must be standardized for clinical practice. This study developed a quantification software for the body composition imaging using abdominal magnetic resonance (MR) images and compared the difference between sarcopenic obesity and healthy controls for clinical application. Thirty patients with sarcopenic obesity and 30 healthy controls participated. The quantification software was developed based on an ImageJ multiplatform and the processing steps are as follows: execution, setting, confirmation, and extraction. The variation in the muscle area (MA), subcutaneous fat area (SA), and visceral fat area (VA) was analyzed with an independent two sample T-test. There were significant differences in SA (p < 0.001) and VA (p = 0.011), whereas there was no difference in MA (p = 0.421). Regarding the ratios, there were significant differences in MA/SA (p < 0.001), MA/VA (p = 0.002), and MA/(SA + VA) (p < 0.001). Overall, intraclass correlation coefficients were higher than 0.9, indicating excellent reliability. This study developed customized sarcopenia-software for assessing body composition using abdominal MR images. The clinical findings demonstrate that the quantitative body composition areas and ratios can assist in the differential diagnosis of sarcopenic obesity or sarcopenia.
CAM-Delam: an in vivo approach to visualize and quantify the delamination and invasion capacity of human cancer cells
Authors: Palaniappan Tamilarasan K. , Šlekienė Lina , Jonasson Anna-Karin , Gilthorpe Jonathan , Gunhaga Lena
Published: June 2020

The development of metastases is the major cause of cancer related death. To develop a standardized method that define the ability of human cancer cells to degrade the basement membrane, e.g. the delamination capacity, is of importance to assess metastatic aggressiveness. We now present the in vivo CAM-Delam assay to visualize and quantify the ability of human cancer cells to delaminate and invade. The method includes seeding cancer cells on the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), followed by the evaluation of cancer-induced delamination and potential invasion within hours to a few days. By testing a range of human cancer cell lines in the CAM-Delam assay, our results show that the delamination capacity can be divided into four categories and used to quantify metastatic aggressiveness. Our results emphasize the usefulness of this assay for quantifying delamination capacity as a measurement of metastatic aggressiveness, and in unraveling the molecular mechanisms that regulate delamination, invasion, formation of micro-metastases and modulations of the tumor microenvironment. This method will be useful in both the preclinical and clinical characterization of tumor biopsies, and in the validation of compounds that may improve survival in metastatic cancer.
Cigarette type or smoking history: Which has a greater impact on the metabolic syndrome and its components?
Authors: Oh Sarah Soyeon , Jang Ji-Eun , Lee Doo-Woong , Park Eun-Cheol , Jang Sung-In
Published: June 2020

Few studies have researched the gender-specific effects of electronic nicotine delivery systems on the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and/or its risk factors (central obesity, raised triglycerides, decreased HDL cholesterol, raised blood pressure, raised fasting plasma glucose). Thus, this study investigated the association between smoking behavior (cigarette type, smoking history) and MetS in a nationally representative sample of Korean men and women. Our study employed data for 5,462 cases of MetS and 12,194 controls from the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (KNHANES) for the years 2014 to 2017. Logistic regression analysis was employed to determine the association between type of cigarette (non-smoker, ex-smoker, and current smoker—conventional only, current smoker—conventional and electronic) and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its risk factors. Smoking history was clinically quantified by pack-year. No association between cigarette type and MetS was found for men. For women, relative to non-smokers, smokers of conventional cigarettes (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.02–3.18) and both conventional and electronic cigarettes (OR 4.02, 95% CI 1.48–10.93) had increased odds of MetS. While there was no association between smoking history and MetS for women, for men, conventional smoking history was associated with MetS for individuals with a smoking history of > 25 pack-years (> 25 to ≤ 37.5 OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.04–2.02; > 37.5 to ≤ 50 OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.08–2.18; > 50 OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.07–2.27). Sex differences were found in the association between smoking behavior and MetS. Such findings reveal sociodemographic differences that should be considered for interventions regarding conventional and/or e-cigarette users at risk of metabolic complications.
Long-term effects of neonicotinoid insecticides on ants
Authors: Schläppi Daniel , Kettler Nina , Straub Lars , Glauser Gaétan , Neumann Peter
Published: June 2020

The widespread prophylactic usage of neonicotinoid insecticides has a clear impact on non-target organisms. However, the possible effects of long-term exposure on soil-dwelling organisms are still poorly understood especially for social insects with long-living queens. Here, we show that effects of chronic exposure to the neonicotinoid thiamethoxam on black garden ant colonies, Lasius niger, become visible before the second overwintering. Queens and workers differed in the residue-ratio of thiamethoxam to its metabolite clothianidin, suggesting that queens may have a superior detoxification system. Even though thiamethoxam did not affect queen mortality, neonicotinoid-exposed colonies showed a reduced number of workers and larvae indicating a trade-off between detoxification and fertility. Since colony size is a key for fitness, our data suggest long-term impacts of neonicotinoids on these organisms. This should be accounted for in future environmental and ecological risk assessments of neonicotinoid applications to prevent irreparable damages to ecosystems.
Molecular design strategy of fluorogenic probes based on quantum chemical prediction of intramolecular spirocyclization
Authors: Tachibana Ryo , Kamiya Mako , Suzuki Satoshi , Morokuma Keiji , Nanjo Aika , Urano Yasuteru
Published: June 2020

Fluorogenic probes are essential tools for real-time visualization of dynamic intracellular processes in living cells, but so far, their design has been largely dependent on trial-and-error methods. Here we propose a quantum chemical calculation-based method for rational prediction of the fluorescence properties of hydroxymethyl rhodamine (HMR)-based fluorogenic probes. Our computational analysis of the intramolecular spirocyclization reaction, which switches the fluorescence properties of HMR derivatives, reveals that consideration of the explicit water molecules is essential for accurate estimation of the free energy difference between the open (fluorescent) and closed (non-fluorescent) forms. We show that this approach can predict the open-closed equilibrium (pKcyclvalues) of unknown HMR derivatives in aqueous media. We validate this pKcyclprediction methodology by designing red and yellow fluorogenic peptidase probes that are highly activated by γ-glutamyltranspeptidase, without the need for prior synthesis of multiple candidates.
Dehydration entropy drives liquid-liquid phase separation by molecular crowding
Authors: Park Sohee , Barnes Ryan , Lin Yanxian , Jeon Byoung-jin , Najafi Saeed , Delaney Kris T. , Fredrickson Glenn H. , Shea Joan-Emma , Hwang Dong Soo , Han Songi
Published: June 2020

Complex coacervation driven liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biopolymers has been attracting attention as a novel phase in living cells. Studies of LLPS in this context are typically of proteins harboring chemical and structural complexity, leaving unclear which properties are fundamental to complex coacervation versus protein-specific. This study focuses on the role of polyethylene glycol (PEG)—a widely used molecular crowder—in LLPS. Significantly, entropy-driven LLPS is recapitulated with charged polymers lacking hydrophobicity and sequence complexity, and its propensity dramatically enhanced by PEG. Experimental and field-theoretic simulation results are consistent with PEG driving LLPS by dehydration of polymers, and show that PEG exerts its effect without partitioning into the dense coacervate phase. It is then up to biology to impose additional variations of functional significance to the LLPS of biological systems.
A weak values approach for testing simultaneous Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen elements of reality for non-commuting observables
Authors: Calderón-Losada Omar , Moctezuma Quistian Tonatiuh T. , Cruz-Ramirez Hector , Murgueitio Ramirez Sebastián , U’Ren Alfred B. , Botero Alonso , Valencia Alejandra
Published: June 2020

In questioning the completeness of quantum mechanics, Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen (EPR) claimed that from the outcomes of local experiments performed on an entangled system, it was possible to ascribe simultaneous reality to the values of certain incompatible observables. As EPR acknowledged, the inevitable disturbance of quantum measurements prevents the precise verification of these assertions on a single system. However, the EPR elements of reality can still be tested at the ensemble level through weak measurements—which minimally disturb the measured system—by interpreting the EPR assertions as assertions about weak values that follow from the outcomes of projective measurements. Here, we report an implementation of such a test through joint weak measurements followed by post-selection on polarization-entangled photon pairs. Our results show that there is a correspondence between the obtained joint weak values and the inferred elements of reality in the polarization version of the EPR assertions.
Construction of a push–pull system in g-C3N4 for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution under visible light
Authors: Xu Cheng-Qun , Zhang Wei-De , Deguchi Kenzo , Ohki Shinobu , Shimizu Tadashi , Ma Renzhi , Sasaki Takayoshi
Published: June 2020

A facile “one-pot” method to improve the utilization of visible light using organic chemistry protocols is reported.
Engineering at the nano-bio interface: harnessing the protein corona towards nanoparticle design and function
Authors: Pinals Rebecca L. , Chio Linda , Ledesma Francis , Landry Markita P.
Published: June 2020

A review of recent literature on rational design, development, and biological applications of engineered nanoparticles with an adsorbed protein corona.
A mitochondrion-targeting Mn(ii)-terpyridine complex for two-photon photodynamic therapy
Authors: Yang Xinda , Zhang Duoteng , Li Jie , Ji Wenhui , Yang Naidi , Gu Shunxin , Wu Qiong , Jiang Qin , Shi Pengfei , Li Lin
Published: June 2020

A mitochondrion-targeting MnII-terpyridine complex (MTP) has been developed for providing a good spatial condition to generate 1O2, which further promoted the two-photon photodynamic therapy (PDT) effect.
A highly sensitive “ON–OFF” optical sensor for the selective detection of cyanide ions in 100% aqueous solutions based on hydrogen bonding and water assisted aggregation induced emission
Authors: Nazarian Ramo , Darabi Hossein Reza , Aghapoor Kioumars , Firouzi Rohoullah , Sayahi Hani
Published: June 2020

Nanoparticles N,N′-(pyridine-2,6-diyl)bis(2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetamide) (1) exhibited an “on–off” emission response toward cyanide (CN−) ions in 100% aqueous solutions based on AIE features.
Recent advances in higher order rotaxane architectures
Authors: Zhou He-Ye , Zong Qian-Shou , Han Ying , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: June 2020

Recent advances in various types of higher order rotaxanes with precisely controlled architectures are summarized in this feature article.
A 3d-printed composite electrode for sustained electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Liu Si , Liu Rongji , Gao Dandan , Trentin Ivan , Streb Carsten
Published: June 2020

3D-printed polymer mesh substrates are converted to composite microstructured electrodes for the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction by stepwise functionalization with a conductive nickel layer and a nickel-iron hydroxide catalyst.
Neural network representation and optimization of thermoelectric states of multiple interacting quantum dots
Authors: Zhou Hangbo , Zhang Gang , Zhang Yong-Wei
Published: June 2020

We perform quantum master equation calculations and machine learning to investigate the thermoelectric properties of multiple interacting quantum dots, including electrical conductance, Seebeck coefficient, thermal conductance and ZT.
Encapsulating low-coordinated Pt clusters within a metal–organic framework induces spatial charge separation boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Yao-Yao , Tang Zheng , Ji Xue-Yang , Wang Song , Yao Zi-Shuo , Tao Jun
Published: June 2020

A strategy is developed to synthesize MOF photocatalyst encapsulating low-coordinate Pt clusters with high photocatalytic hydrogen-evolution performance under visible light.
Using sodium acetate for the synthesis of [Au(NHC)X] complexes
Authors: Scattolin Thomas , Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Falivene Laura , Cavallo Luigi , Nolan Steven P.
Published: June 2020

Sodium acetate enables the synthesis of [Au(NHC)Cl] complexes, as well as their Au-alkynyl and -thiolato derivatives in high yields, under air and in technical grade, green solvents. The mild synthetic methods are also investigated computationally.
Adsorption of crude oil from crude oil–water emulsion by mesoporous hafnium oxide ceramics
Authors: Hussain Fatima A. , Zamora Julio , Ferrer Ivonne M. , Kinyua Maureen , Velázquez Jesús M.
Published: June 2020

An environmentally benign, mechanically stable, and renewable mesoporous hafnium oxide ceramic synthesized via a sol–gel process has exhibited 99.9% removal capacity of crude oil from an oil-in-water emulsion.
In vitro study for investigating the impact of decreasing the molecular weight of oat bran dietary fibre components on the behaviour in small and large intestine
Authors: Rosa-Sibakov Natalia , Mäkelä Noora , Aura Anna-Marja , Sontag-Strohm Tuula , Nordlund Emilia
Published: June 2020

The objective of this work was to evaluate the role of β-glucan molecular weight (Mw) and the presence of other carbohydrates on the physiological functionality of oat bran via an in vitro digestion study.
Inhibition of lipid autoxidation by vegetable waxes
Authors: Valoppi Fabio , Haman Nabil , Ferrentino Giovanna , Scampicchio Matteo
Published: June 2020

This study aims to evaluate the effect of vegetable waxes on the kinetics of lipid oxidation of linseed oil.
Repurposing drugs against the main protease of SARS-CoV-2: mechanism-based insights supported by available laboratory and clinical data
Authors: Chakraborti Sohini , Bheemireddy Sneha , Srinivasan Narayanaswamy
Published: June 2020

Mechanism-focussed drug repurposing against SARS-CoV-2 Mproby exploiting the ‘Neighbourhood behaviour’ in the protein 3D (targetomics) and chemical 2D (drugomics) space.
Defected vanadium bronzes as superb cathodes in aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Li Jianwei , Luo Ningjing , Wan Feng , Zhao Siyu , Li Zhuangnan , Li Wenyao , Guo Jian , Shearing Paul R. , Brett Dan J. L. , Carmalt Claire J. , Chai Guoliang , He Guanjie , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: June 2020

Defect-engineered vanadium bronzes with ultra-fast zinc-ion diffusion kinetics and excellent stability were created by a two-pronged strategy as cathode materials in aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
Nanocomposite hydrogels for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Zhao Hongbo , Liu Min , Zhang Yajie , Yin Jingbo , Pei Renjun
Published: June 2020

Various nanomaterials and polymer chains were combined to form nanocomposite hydrogels for different types of tissue engineering.
Dual responsive oligo(lysine)-modified Pluronic F127 hydrogels for drug release of 5-fluorouracil
Authors: Li Peihong , Dai Xueyan , Qu Lijie , Sui Yanlong , Zhang Chunling
Published: June 2020

Oligo(lysine)-F127 hydrogels have a temperature-responsive sol–gel transition and pH-responsive micelle morphology.
Thermokinetic behaviour and functional group variation during spontaneous combustion of raw coal and its preoxidised form
Authors: Li Da-Jiang , Xiao Yang , Lü Hui-Fei , Laiwang Bin , Shu Chi-Min
Published: June 2020

Coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) is a major problem in coal mining.
A LSER-based model to predict the solubilizing effect of drugs by inclusion with cucurbit[7]uril
Authors: Cheng Enping , Zeng Yangyan , Huang Yan , Su Tiezhu , Yang Yang , Peng Li , Li Jun
Published: June 2020

A LSER model was built for predicting the solubility of inclusion complexes.
Predicting asymmetric phospholipid microstructures in solutions
Authors: Shan Yue , Ji Yongyun , Wang Xianghong , He Linli , Li Shiben
Published: June 2020

Two types of phospholipid molecules self-assemble to form an asymmetric membrane in aqueous solution.
Direct surface coating of high voltage LiCoO2 cathode with P(VDF-HFP) based gel polymer electrolyte
Authors: Chen Huiling , Wen Yuehua , Wang Yue , Zhang Songtong , Zhao Pengcheng , Ming Hai , Cao Gaoping , Qiu Jingyi
Published: June 2020

For high-voltage cycling of lithium-ion batteries, a Li-ion conductor layer, P(VDF-HFP)/LiTFSI with high electrochemical stability has been coated on the surfaces of as-formed LiCoO2 cathodes by a solution casting technique at low temperature.
Base-iodine-promoted metal-catalyst-free reactions of [60]fullerene with β-keto esters for the selective formation of [60]fullerene derivatives
Authors: Yang Han-Lin , Xu Li-Jun , Li Wen-Zhong , Sun Tao , Duan Bao-Rong , Chen Si , Gao Xiang
Published: June 2020

In this study, methanofullerenes and 2′,3′-dihydrofuran C60 derivatives were selectively synthesized in high yields via the reactions of C60 with β-keto esters under mild conditions by controlling the addition sequence and molar ratio of iodine and base.
Complexation and bonding studies on [Ru(NO)(H2O)5]3+ with nitrate ions by using density functional theory calculation
Authors: Kato Akane , Kaneko Masashi , Nakashima Satoru
Published: June 2020

Density functional study on the complexation of [Ru(NO)(H2O)5]3+ with NO3− ions reproduced the stabilities of the geometrical isomers and the stepwise substitution reactivities by combining the association energy with the leaving/entering ligands.
Macrocycle synthesis strategy based on step-wise “adding and reacting” three components enables screening of large combinatorial libraries
Authors: Mothukuri Ganesh K. , Kale Sangram S. , Stenbratt Carl L. , Zorzi Alessandro , Vesin Jonathan , Bortoli Chapalay Julien , Deyle Kaycie , Turcatti Gerardo , Cendron Laura , Angelini Alessandro , Heinis Christian
Published: June 2020

Combination of three efficient chemical reactions allows for solution-phase synthesis of 3780 macrocycles and identification of potent thrombin inhibitor.