bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human cathepsin X: A novel cysteine protease of the papain family with a very short proregion and unique insertions1
Authors: Nägler Dorit K , Ménard Robert
Published: July 2002

A novel cDNA encoding a cysteine protease of the papain family named cathepsin X was obtained by PCR amplification from a human ovary cDNA library. The cathepsin X cDNA is ubiquitously expressed in human tissues and contains an open reading frame of 912 nucleotides encoding a predicted protein of 303 amino acids. All highly conserved regions in papain‐like cysteine proteases including the catalytic residues are present in cathepsin X. The mature part of cathepsin X is 26–32% identical to human cathepsins B, C, H, K, L, O, S and W. The cathepsin X sequence contains several unique features: (i) a very short proregion; (ii) a three amino acid residue insertion in a highly conserved region between the glutamine of the putative oxyanion hole and the active site cysteine; and (iii) a second insertion of 15 amino acid residues that can be aligned with the occluding loop region in cathepsin B.
Molecular cloning and functional expression of the human glycine transporter GlyT2 and chromosomal localisation of the gene in the human genome1
Authors: Morrow J.A. , Collie I.T. , Dunbar D.R. , Walker G.B. , Shahid M. , Hill D.R.
Published: July 2002

Neurotransmitter transport systems are major targets for therapeutic alterations in synaptic function. We have cloned and sequenced a cDNA encoding the human type 2 glycine transporter GlyT2 from human brain and spinal cord. An open reading frame of 2391 nucleotides encodes a 797 amino acid protein that transports glycine in a Na+/Cl−‐dependent manner. When stably expressed in CHO cells, human GlyT2 displays a dose‐dependent uptake of glycine with an apparent K
m of 108 μM. This uptake is not affected by sarcosine at concentrations up to 1 mM. Radiation hybrid analysis mapped the GlyT2 gene to D11S1308 (LOD=8.988) on human chromosome 11p15.1–15.2.
Prediction of mechanical properties of healing fractures using acoustic emission
Authors: Watanabe Yoshinobu , Takai Shinro , Arai Yoshiyuki , Yoshino Nobuyuki , Hirasawa Yasusuke
Published: July 2002

The objective of this study was to develop a non‐destructive method for monitoring fracture healing with acoustic emission (AE). Experimentally produced fractures of the rat femur were tested in tension and in torsion at 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks after fracture. AE signals were monitored during these mechanical tests. The values for load and torque at the initiation of the AE signal were defined as new mechanical parameters. The apparent density and ash density of the fracture site were also measured at each time period. Tensile strength, tensile stiffness, maximum torque and torsional stiffness of the fracture site increased with time. The AE signal was detected before complete specimen failure. Load and torque for initiation of AE increased proportionally with increasing mechanical properties. The mineral density, however, reached a plateau at 8 weeks, when callus mechanical strength was approximately 50% of control. Load for initiation of AE was strongly correlated with the strength (r = 0.98), stiffness (r = 0.88), and failure strain (r = –0.63) of the callus. Torque for initiation of AE was highly correlated with the maximum torque (r = 0.95) and torsional stiffness (r = 0.93) of the callus. The findings of the present study indicated that some mechanical properties of healing fractures could be estimated by monitoring AE signals. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Nosological validity of dysthymia. Part II: familial, comorbidity, biological and psychological data
Authors: Waintraub L , Guelfi JD
Published: July 2002

If some recent studies seem to reveal a more specific familial relationship for dysthymia in addition to a previously known familial relationship to mood disorders, and if results concerning the relationship between dysthymia and depressive personality as well as the search for possible biological and psychological correlates support the nosological validity of dysthymia, comorbidity studies raise difficult questions. Both comorbidity studies with Axis I and Axis II disorders challenge the validity of dysthymia, but as well they question the categorical model presently in use more than the validity of a definite category.

However, there are now enough data confirming some of the hypotheses implied by the nosological construct of dysthymia inside this model for this category not to be discarded. For instance, dysthymia is definitely not a personality disorder, and appears also distinct from major depression. The problem of the complex nature of the relationship between dysthymia and major depression still remains unsolved.
Altered balance between matrix gelatinases (MMP‐2 and MMP‐9) and their tissue inhibitors in human dilated cardiomyopathy: potential role of MMP‐9 in myosin‐heavy chain degradation
Authors: Rouet‐Benzineb Patricia , Buhler Jean‐Marie , Dreyfus Patrick , Delcourt Annick , Dorent Richard , Perennec Jeannine , Crozatier Bertrand , Harf Alain , Lafuma Chantal
Published: July 2002

Background:

End‐stage of human dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by myocyte loss and fibrosis, and associated with ventricular dilatation and reduced cardiac function. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their natural tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) have been involved in the myocardial remodeling.

Aims:

To evaluate the potential role of matrix gelatinases (MMP‐2 and MMP‐9) in DCM, the balance between gelatinases and TIMPs and the gelatinase localization were investigated in left free wall ventricles from six normal donors and six patients with DCM at the transplantation time.

Methods:

TIMP‐(1, 2, 3 and 4) mRNAs were analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). TIMP‐1 and ‐2 protein content was assessed by ELISA. MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 expression were examined by zymography and immunological techniques.

Results:

All TIMPs were down‐regulated in DCM hearts, especially TIMP‐1 (reduced by 80%). Gel zymography revealed similar activity of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 in both tissues. By in situ zymography and immunohistochemistry, active and immunoreactive gelatinases were pericardiomyocyte in control hearts and intracardiomyocyte in DCM hearts. Intracellular MMPs were associated with sarcomeric structure in DCM. To estimate a putative role of these gelatinases, several sarcomeric contractile proteins were digested in vitro by purified active MMP‐9. Only myosin‐heavy chain was cleaved in vitro giving 180‐, 120‐, 80‐ and 20‐kDa proteolytic fragments. In vivo, two major myosin‐heavy chain proteolytic fragments (80 and 20 kDa) were detected by specific monoclonal antibody against myosin‐heavy chain in DCM left ventricular homogenates, only.

Conclusions:

Taken together, these data highly suggest that MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 may be involved in the disorganization of the contractile apparatus in DCM hearts.
K160 in the RNA‐binding domain of the orf virus virulence factor OV20.0 is critical for its functions in counteracting host antiviral defense
Authors: Liao Guan‐Ru , Tseng Yeu‐Yang , Tseng Ching‐Yu , Huang Ying‐Ping , Tsai Ching‐Hsiu , Liu Hao‐Ping , Hsu Wei‐Li
Published: April 2021

The OV20.0 virulence factor of orf virus antagonizes host antiviral responses. One mechanism through which it functions is by inhibiting activation of the dsRNA‐activated protein kinase R (PKR) by sequestering dsRNA and by physically interacting with PKR. Sequence alignment indicated that several key residues critical for dsRNA binding were conserved in OV20.0, and their contribution to OV20.O function was investigated in this study. We found that residues F141, K160, and R164 were responsible for the dsRNA‐binding ability of OV20.0. Interestingly, mutation at K160 (K160A) diminished the OV20.0–PKR interaction and further reduced the inhibitory effect of OV20.0 on PKR activation. Nevertheless, OV20.0 homodimerization was not influenced by K160A. The contribution of the dsRNA‐binding domain and K160 to the suppression of RNA interference by OV20.0 was further demonstrated in plants. In summary, K160 is essential for the function of OV20.0, particularly its interaction with dsRNA and PKR that ultimately contributes to the suppression of PKR activation.
Molecular Evolution: Rates
Authors: Bromham Lindell
Published: April 2021

The rate of molecular evolution varies dramatically between taxa, for example some viruses have a rate of genome evolution a million times faster than mammals. Although some rate variation may be due to random fluctuations or locus‐specific effects, studies have revealed strong and predictable patterns in the differences in the rate of molecular evolution between species. In particular, large, long‐lived organisms with low reproductive output tend to have slower rates of molecular evolution than related species with shorter lives, faster generations or higher fecundity. Studies of the variation in the rate of molecular evolution between species may reveal the mechanisms underlying these differences and can inform analyses that seek to derive information on evolutionary history and processes from molecular data.

Key Concepts

The number of genetic differences between lineages increases with the time since their last common ancestor, but differences do not accrue in the same rate in all lineages.

Variation in the rate of molecular evolution can be compared between species by comparing absolute rates, derived from genome sequences of related individuals, or estimated by comparing sequences between different species where the age of the divergence is known.

A more common approach is to compare the relative rate differences between species by comparing the number of sequence changes that have accumulated since they last shared a common ancestor or inferring branch lengths along a phylogeny.

Mutation rate varies between species, and selection can influence the mutation rate by adjusting the balance between the competing costs of DNA repair and mutation.

Many mutations arise from DNA replication errors, so mutation rate can be influenced by the number of times DNA is copied per unit time.

Rates of molecular evolution in many taxa scale with body size, possibly because smaller bodied taxa go through more genome replications per unit time, a hypothesis referred to as the generation time effect.

Natural selection might play a role in fine‐tuning mutation rates to fit different life history strategies, for example reducing mutation rates in large, long‐lived organisms.
How do people perceive the relationship between science and religion? The roles of epistemic and ontological cognition
Authors: Marin Pinja , Lindeman Marjaana
Published: April 2021

Although the relationship between religion and science has long been the subject of discussion, investigations into the how and why of people's science‐religion perspectives are rare. This study examined how epistemic and ontological cognition predict agreement with four science‐religion perspectives: conflict, independence, dialogue, and integration. Participants (N = 3911) were Finnish, Danish, and Dutch adults who had answered an online study. Most people held views that were not well captured by the commonly used four categories. When more specific perspectives were examined, differences were found especially in supernatural beliefs, over‐mentalizing, and justifications for religious arguments and scientific knowledge. Thinking styles and epistemic sophistication played only a minor role. The results suggest that non‐scientists evaluate the relationship between religion and science more based on their ontological beliefs than their epistemic reflection.
Reshaping Antitumor Immunity with Chemo‐Photothermal Integrated Nanoplatform to Augment Checkpoint Blockade‐Based Cancer Therapy
Authors: Gao Tong , Zhang Zipeng , Liang Shuang , Fu Shunli , Mu Weiwei , Guan Li , Liu Yang , Chu Qihui , Fang Yuxiao , Liu Yongjun , Zhang Na
Published: April 2021

Immune checkpoint therapy promotes cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) activity to eliminate tumors. Nevertheless, their effectiveness in solid tumors is limited by inadequate infiltration of CTLs and suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, an anti‐PD‐1 antibody coupled chemo‐photothermal integrated nanoplatform (A/Au@MSMs‐P) is proposed to reshape antitumor immunity against cancer. The matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) responsive A/Au@MSMs‐P promotes the separation of abemaciclib‐loaded gold‐silica nanoparticles (A/Au@MSMs) and anti‐PD‐1 antibody, achieving a triple‐coordinated strategy to enhance checkpoint blockade therapy. First, chemo‐photothermal therapy of A/Au@MSMs induces cell cycle arrest in G1 phase and promotes tumor cells apoptosis to achieve local ablation. Second, immunogenic death of tumor cells promotes the maturation of dendritic cells and recruits antigen‐specific CTLs into tumor tissue to promote immune activation. Third, abemaciclib markedly suppresses the proliferation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) to alleviate the immunosuppression of the TME and potentiates the effectiveness of CTLs. This triple‐coordinated strategy not only reshapes the antitumor immunity to enhance checkpoint blockade, but also cooperates with chemo‐photothermal therapy, leading to improved antitumor efficiency and prolonged survival rate. Taken together, this study presents a promising strategy for improving checkpoint therapy response and has great potential in future cancer therapy.
Continuous‐Flow Synthesis of High‐Quality Few‐Layer Antimonene Hexagons
Authors: Torres Iñigo , Alcaraz Marta , Sanchis‐Gual Roger , Carrasco Jose A. , Fickert Michael , Assebban Mhamed , Gibaja Carlos , Dolle Christian , Aldave Diego A. , Gómez‐Navarro Cristina , Salagre Elena , García Michel Enrique , Varela María , Gómez‐Herrero Julio , Abellán Gonzalo , Zamora Félix
Published: April 2021

2D materials show outstanding properties that can bring many applications in different technological fields. However, their uses are still limited by production methods. In this context, antimonene is recently suggested as a new 2D material to fabricate different (opto)electronic devices, among other potential applications. This work focuses on optimizing the synthetic parameters to produce high‐quality antimonene hexagons and their implementation in a large‐scale manufacturing procedure. By means of a continuous‐flow synthesis, few‐layer antimonene hexagons with ultra‐large lateral dimensions (up to several microns) and a few nanometers thick are isolated. The suitable chemical post‐treatment of these nanolayers with chloroform gives rise to antimonene surfaces showing low oxidation that can be easily contacted with microelectrodes. Therefore, the reported procedure offers a way to solve two critical problems for using antimonene in many applications: large‐scale preparation of high‐quality antimonene and the ability to set electrical contacts useful for device fabrication.
Vat Photopolymerization 3D Printing of Advanced Soft Sensors and Actuators: From Architecture to Function
Authors: Zhao Wenyu , Wang Ziya , Zhang Jianpeng , Wang Xiaopu , Xu Yingtian , Ding Ning , Peng Zhengchun
Published: April 2021

Fabrication and assembly of flexible sensors and soft actuators play important roles in improving the performance of wearable electronics and soft robots. Traditional manufacturing techniques have limitations in controlling the geometry and architecture of many soft actuation and sensing systems, which compromise their performance as well as applications. With the emergence of 3D printing, directly transforming 3D models into real objects becomes possible. In particular, vat photopolymerization techniques, represented by stereolithography, are capable of printing all‐in‐one and lab‐on‐a‐chip devices with fast speed and high accuracy. Novel polymer formulations, including functional resins, hydrogels, elastomers, polymer blends, composites, and biological materials, have been developed for vat photopolymerization 3D printing to produce highly stable architectures, which prompts a remarkable revolution in mechanics and materials for soft electronics. This review looks into the recent developments of vat photopolymerization 3D printing technology for lightweight engineering, personalized electronics, and soft robots.
Decreased homotopic interhemispheric functional connectivity in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Yao Shuxia , Zhou Menghan , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Feng , Zhang Qianqian , Zhao Zhongbo , Jiang Xi , Xu Xiaolei , Becker Benjamin , Kendrick Keith M.
Published: April 2021

While several functional and structural changes occur in large‐scale brain networks in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), reduced interhemispheric resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC) between homotopic regions may be of particular importance as a biomarker. ASD is an early‐onset developmental disorder and neural alterations are often age‐dependent. Although there is some evidence for homotopic interhemispheric rsFC alterations in language processing regions in ASD children, wider analyses using large data sets have not been performed. The present study, therefore, conducted a voxel‐based homotopic interhemispheric rsFC analysis in 146 ASD and 175 typically developing children under‐age 10 and examined associations with symptom severity in the autism brain imaging data exchange data sets. Given the role of corpus callosum (CC) in interhemispheric connectivity and reported CC volume changes in ASD we additionally examined whether there were parallel volumetric changes. Results demonstrated decreased homotopic rsFC in ASD children in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and precuneus of the default mode network, the precentral gyrus of the mirror neuron system, and the caudate of the reward system. Homotopic rsFC of the PCC was associated with symptom severity. Furthermore, although no significant CC volume changes were found in ASD children, there was a significant negative correlation between the anterior CC volumes and homotopic rsFC strengths in the caudate. The present study shows that a reduced pattern of homotopic interhemispheric rsFC in ASD adults/adolescents is already present in children of 5–10 years old and further supports their potential use as a general ASD biomarker.

Lay summary

Homotopic interhemispheric functional connectivity plays an important role in synchronizing activity between the two hemispheres and is altered in adults and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the present study focused on children with ASD, we have observed a similar pattern of decreased homotopic connectivity, suggesting that alterations in homotopic interhemispheric connectivity may occur early in ASD and be a useful general biomarker across ages.
Sanierung des Rheinstegs bei Albbruck mit Carbonbeton
Authors: Bielak Jan , Rempel Sergej , Felber Martin , Durst Hans‐Jörg , Will Norbert
Published: April 2021

Der 200 m lange Rheinsteg der Rheinkraftwerk Albbruck‐Dogern AG (RADAG) bei Albbruck ermöglicht seit 1934 Fußgängern und Radfahrern die Querung des Hochrheins. Wegen starker Korrosionsschäden musste der Überbau grundlegend saniert werden. Mit dem Ersatz der historischen Eisenbetonplatte durch eine 7 cm dünne Carbonbetonplatte konnten das Eigengewicht beibehalten und das Stahlhaupttragwerk sowie alle Unterbauten inklusive der vier Pfeiler im Rhein weiter genutzt werden. Dies sparte gegenüber einem Ersatzneubau Kosten und Zeit. Obwohl keine Verbundwirkung der Carbonbetonplatte mit den Hauptträgern angesetzt wurde, sollte die Lauffläche in Ortbetonbauweise ausgeführt und kraftschlüssig angeschlossen werden, um die Globalsteifigkeit und das Schwingungsverhalten der Brücke zu erhalten. Die hieraus resultierenden Zwangskräfte aus Schwinden und Differenztemperatur mussten bei der Bemessung der Carbonbetonplatte als Zugnormalspannungen bis hin zur vollständigen Trennrissbildung berücksichtigt werden. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über das Gesamtprojekt, erläutert die Untersuchungen zur Zugnormalkraft‐Querkraft‐Interaktion an Carbonbeton und thematisiert die Herausforderungen des Einsatzes von Carbonbewehrung in Ortbetonbauweise.
Carotid web prevalence in a large hospital‐based cohort and its association with ischemic stroke
Authors: Mei Janet , Chen Duan , Esenwa Charles , Gold Menachem , Burns Judah , Zampolin Richard , Slasky Shira E.
Published: April 2021

Carotid artery webs are shelf‐like protrusions of intimal fibrous tissue arising from the posterior wall of the carotid bulb, found to have a 2.3% prevalence in the United States. Previous studies have demonstrated its association with ipsilateral anterior circulation stroke. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of carotid webs in the largest US epidemiologic study to date, and to further characterize the clinical features of carotid web patients. We assembled a cohort of 1467 adult patients with CT angiogram neck from January 1, 2011 to January 1, 2017. CT angiograms were reviewed for diagnosis of carotid web. Demographic and clinical details of web patients were obtained. Differences in demographics and CT angiogram indication between patients with and without carotid web were assessed using appropriate statistical tests. Twenty‐four (24/1467 = 1.6%) carotid web patients were identified (mean age: 63 years; 62.5% female; 50% African American). Twelve (12/24 = 50%) had ipsilateral anterior circulation stroke. Of them, 8 were deemed cryptogenic. Four (4/24 = 16.7%) web patients had at least one recurrent stroke in the ipsilateral anterior circulation. One case was reported on the radiology report at the time the study was initially performed. This study confirms a prevalence of 1.6% in our urban, North American cohort. Among carotid web patients, there was a high incidence of ipsilateral anterior circulation stroke, the majority of which were classified as cryptogenic. This study affirms the importance of the diagnosis of carotid web, especially in cryptogenic stroke patients, as a potential unrecognized stroke risk factor.
Electrochemically Driven Reduction of Carbon Dioxide Mediated by Mono‐Reduced Mo‐Diimine Tetracarbonyl Complexes: Electrochemical, Spectroelectrochemical and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Garcia Bellido Carlos , Álvarez‐Miguel Lucía , Miguel Daniel , Lalaoui Noémie , Cabon Nolwenn , Gloaguen Frédéric , Le Poul Nicolas
Published: April 2021

The activation of carbon dioxide by three different Mo‐diimine complexes [Mo(CO)4(L)] (L=bipyridine (bpy), 1,10‐phenantroline (phen) or pyridylindolizine (py‐indz)) has been investigated by electrochemistry and spectroelectrochemistry. Under an inert atmosphere, monoreduction of the complexes is ligand‐centered and leads to tetracarbonyl [Mo(CO)4(L)].− species, whereas double reduction induces CO release. Under CO2, [Mo(CO)4(L)] complexes undergo unexpected coupled chemical‐electrochemical reactions at the first reduction step, leading to the formation of reduced CO2 derivatives. The experimental results obtained from IR, NIR and UV‐Vis spectroelectrochemistry, as well as DFT calculations, demonstrate an electron‐transfer reaction whose rate is ligand‐dependent.
Modulating Crystallinity and Miscibility via Side‐chain Variation Enable High Performance All‐Small‐Molecule Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Yang , Fan Qunping , Wang Yulong , Fang Jin , Liu Qi , Zhu Lei , Qiu Jinjing , Guo Xia , Liu Feng , Su Wenyan , Zhang Maojie
Published: April 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Side‐chain engineering as one of the most important molecular design strategies has been widely used to improve photovoltaic efficiency of active layer materials. Herein, a series of acceptor‐π‐donor‐π‐acceptor typed small molecule (SM)‐donors (SL1, SL2, SL3, and SL4), on the basis of high‐performance SM‐donor BTTzR (SL1) with thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole as the π‐bridging units and 3‐butylrhodanine as the terminal electron‐withdrawing groups, were designed and synthesized to study the effect of the side‐chain substitutions of BDT‐T on the photovoltaic performance. The investigation shows that the side‐chain engineering has no obvious effect on the molecular absorption spectrum and energy levels but significantly influences on the molecular orientation and packing, and the compatibility with the acceptor Y6. Among these SM‐donors neat films, SL1 and SL3 with two mixed branched and straight alkyl chains exhibit stronger crystallization in the face‐on direction, and SL4 with two shorter alkyl chains achieves more compact packing. In the Y6‐based blend films, three SM‐donors (SL1, SL3, and SL4) with double alkyl chains on thienyl of BDT‐T have much better compatibility compared to SL2 with single long alkyl chain, while their compatibility increases with the increase of alkyl chain length. The stronger crystallization, moderate molecular packing, and better blend compatibility of SL1 offer higher Jsc of 23.2 mA·cm–2 and fill factor (FF) of 0.68 in the Y6‐based all‐small‐molecule organic solar cells (all‐SM‐OSCs). Ultimately, the SL1:Y6‐based devices achieved a promising power conversion efficiency of 13.9%, which is much higher than that of 11.5% from the SL2:Y6‐based devices (Jsc = 21.5 mA·cm–2 and FF = 0.60). This work indicates that modulating the side chain of SM‐donors is a promising strategy to obtain efficient all‐SM‐OSCs.
Increased in vitro Anti‐HIV Activity of Caffeinium‐Functionalized Polyoxometalates
Authors: Enderle Ana G. , Bosso Matteo , Groß Rüdiger , Heiland Magdalena , Bollini Mariela , Culzoni María J. , Kirchhoff Frank , Münch Jan , Streb Carsten
Published: April 2021

Polyoxometalates (POMs), molecular metal oxide anions, are inorganic clusters with promising antiviral activity. Herein we report increased anti‐HIV‐1 activity of a POM when electrostatically combined with organic counter‐cations. To this end, Keggin‐type cerium tungstate POMs have been combined with organic methyl‐caffeinium (Caf) cations, and their cytotoxicity, antiviral activity and mode of action have been studied. The novel compound, Caf4K[β2‐CeSiW11O39]×H2O, exhibits sub‐nanomolar antiviral activity and inhibits HIV‐1 infectivity by acting on an early step of the viral infection cycle. This work demonstrates that combination of POM anions and organic bioactive cations can be a powerful new strategy to increase antiviral activity of these inorganic compounds.
Effect of Viscosity on Microswimmers: A Comparative Study
Authors: Nsamela Audrey , Sharan Priyanka , Garcia‐Zintzun Aidee , Heckel Sandra , Chattopadhyay Purnesh , Wang Linlin , Wittmann Martin , Gemming Thomas , Saenz James , Simmchen Juliane
Published: April 2021

Although many biological fluids like blood and mucus exhibit high viscosities, there are still many open questions concerning the swimming behavior of microswimmers in highly viscous media, limiting research to idealized laboratory conditions instead of application‐oriented scenarios. Here, we analyze the effect of viscosity on the swimming speed and motion pattern of four kinds of microswimmers of different sizes which move by contrasting propulsion mechanisms: two biological swimmers (bovine sperm cells andBacillus subtilisbacteria) which move by different bending patterns of their flagella and two artificial swimmers with catalytic propulsion mechanisms (alginate microtubes and Janus Pt@SiO2spherical microparticles). Experiments consider two different media (glycerol and methylcellulose) with increasing viscosity, but also the impact of surface tension, catalyst activity and diffusion coefficients are discussed and evaluated.
A novel approach for nature‐based optimization algorithms: The threat factor approach
Authors: Toz Metin , Toz Güliz
Published: April 2021

Nature‐inspired optimization algorithms especially those based on the hunting behaviors of the creatures assume that the hunting operations are performed in a safe environment. However, generally, there are threats in real‐life for the hunter‐animals. This paper focuses on these threat factors and proposes that they can be used to improve the searching abilities of the algorithms. Gray wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm was selected to present the proposed approach and it was assumed that there was a mountain lion as the threat factor living in the same habitat with the wolf pack. The relations between the two predators were modeled and used to improve the performance of the algorithm. Five experiments were conducted to test the performance of the proposed method and the results were compared with the GWO and four optimization algorithms from the literature. It is shown that the proposed algorithm obtained best results for 21 of the 50 benchmark functions, while its closest competitor achieved the best results for 16 functions. Besides, the results of the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test indicated that the proposed method is superior to all other methods. In addition, it was shown that the threat factor approach does not cause a significant increase in the processing time.
Locus of control, personality and depression symptoms in cancer: Testing a moderated mediation model
Authors: Lima Manuela Polidoro , Moret‐Tatay Carmen , Irigaray Tatiana Quarti
Published: April 2021

Objective

To investigate the mediator role of locus of control on the relationship between the Big Five personality traits and the manifestation of depression symptoms in cancer outpatients.

Method

Participants consisted of 220 cancer outpatients (138 women and 82 men), evaluated individually at the hospital waiting room. The measures applied were as follows: The NEO‐Five Factor Inventory (NEO‐FFI), Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC) Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results

The factor structure of NEO‐FFI was reexamined. A moderated mediation model was found for the powerful others external locus of control (LOC), depression symptoms and extraversion and conscientiousness traits across sex.

Conclusions

Extraverted individuals can seek for others' support and use their attachments to find someone to guide them; conscientious patients can rely on their physician and follow every rule and orientation demanded, temporarily delegating to others the responsibility for their lives. All these strategies can help to decrease symptoms of depression. The perception of control can be taught, and it may be specifically relevant for mental health and in the performance of health behaviours.
Photophysical Properties of Indocyanine Green in the Shortwave Infrared Region
Authors: Cosco Emily D. , Lim Irene , Sletten Ellen M.
Published: April 2021

With the growing development of new contrast agents for optical imaging using near‐infrared and shortwave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths, it is essential to have consistent benchmarks for emitters in these regions. Indocyanine green (ICG), a ubiquitous and FDA‐approved organic dye and optical imaging agent, is commonly employed as a standard for photophysical properties and biological performance for imaging experiments at these wavelengths. Yet, its reported photophysical properties across organic and aqueous solvents vary greatly in the literature, which hinders its ability to be used as a consistent benchmark. Herein, we measure photophysical properties in organic and aqueous solvents using InGaAs detection (∼950–1,700 nm), providing particular relevance for SWIR imaging.
Classical and genomic prediction of synthetic open‐pollinated sweet corn performance in organic environments
Authors: Zystro Jared , Peters Tessa , Miller Kathleen , Tracy William F.
Published: April 2021

Open‐pollinated cultivars provide a number of benefits for organic and smallholder farmers, allowing them to save seed, conduct on‐farm selection, and maintain on‐farm crop genetic diversity. Synthetic open‐pollinated cultivars provide advantages over traditional open‐pollinated cultivars for such farmers. The objective of this research was to determine the usefulness of marker‐based prediction models relative to structured mating design‐based predictions for selecting untested sweet corn synthetic cultivars for organic production systems.  This study used marker data and phenotypic data collected in 2015 and 2016 in 11 organic trials across six locations on 40 sweet corn (Zea mays L.) inbreds and 100 hybrid progeny formed from four disconnected North Carolina Design II (NC DII) mating blocks to predict performance of untested synthetic open‐pollinated sweet corn populations. In 2017, validation trials of 26 previously untested synthetic populations were grown in five organic environments to assess correlations between actual performance and performance predicted by genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) or NC DII general combining abilities (GCAs). Correlations between values measured in 2017 validation trials and values predicted from the complete dataset ranged from 0.28 to 0.68 for GCA‐based predictions, from 0.25 to 0.67 for the additive GBLUP model, and from 0.28 to 0.68 for the additive plus dominance GBLUP model. In general, neither the genomic prediction model with solely additive effects nor genomic prediction with both additive and dominance effects demonstrated consistent increases in accuracy of predictions of synthetic population performance above predictions based solely on general combining ability. However, genomic prediction could be used to predict synthetic populations that shared alleles with the training set, even if the parents were never included in the training set, which is not possible with traditional general combining ability models.
Gallium‐Doping Effects on Structure, Lithium‐Conduction, and Thermochemical Stability of Li7‐3xGaxLa3Zr2O12 Garnet‐Type Electrolytes
Authors: Birkner Nancy , Li Changlong , Estes Shanna L. , Brinkman Kyle S.
Published: April 2021

One of the most promising electrolytes for all‐solid‐state lithium batteries is Li7La3Zr2O12. Previously, their thermodynamic stability, Li‐ion conductivity, and structural features induced by Ga‐doping have not been empirically determined or correlated. Here, their interplay was examined for Li7−3xGaxLa3Zr2O12 with target xGa=0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 atoms per formula unit (apfu). Formation enthalpies, obtained with calorimetry and found to be exothermic at all compositions, linearly decreased in stability with increased xGa. At dilute xGa substitution, the formation enthalpy curve shifted stepwise endothermically, and the conductivity increased to a maximum, coinciding with 0.529 Ga apfu. This correlated with percolation threshold analysis (0.558 Ga apfu). Further substitution (0.787 Ga apfu) produced a large decrease in the stability and conductivity due to a large increase in point defects and blocked Li‐migration pathways. At xGa=1.140 apfu, a small exothermic shift was related to defect cluster organization extending the Li hopping distance and decreased Li‐ion conductivity.
One‐Step Reductive Amination of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5‐Bis(aminomethyl)furan over Raney Ni
Authors: Wei Zuojun , Cheng Yuran , Zhou Kuo , Zeng Yue , Yao En , Li Qing , Liu Yingxin , Sun Yong
Published: April 2021

Simultaneous reductive amination of C=O and C−OH in 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) into C−NH2 in 2,5‐bis(aminomethyl)furan (BAMF) is challenging. In this work, reductive amination of C=O in HMF was firstly studied, in which HMF can be converted into 5‐hydroxymethyl furfurylamine (HMFA) with a 99.5 % yield over Raney Co catalyst. BAMF was then directly synthesized with 82.3 % yield from HMF over Raney Ni catalyst at 160 °C for 12 h. An even higher yield of 88.3 % could be obtained through a stepwise reductive amination process, in which the reaction started at 120 °C for the first 2 h over Raney Co mainly for amination of C=O and then continued at 160 °C for another 10 h over Raney Ni mainly for amination of C−OH. Under optimized reaction conditions, the catalyst could be reused four times without obvious loss in catalytic performance. XRD and XPS characterization of the reused catalyst indicated that the formation of Ni3N and the adsorption of alkyl amines could be the main reasons for the deactivation of the catalyst. Moreover, plausible reaction pathways were proposed to originate the detected by‐products according to the kinetic profiles.
High‐dose spironolactone lacks effectiveness in treatment of fibromyalgia (RCT)
Authors: Böhm Ruwen , Westermann Paul , Gleim Martin , Cascorbi Ingolf , Gruenewald Matthias , Herdegen Thomas , Ohnesorge Henning
Published: April 2021

Background

Spironolactone (SPL) is a reversible mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and androgen receptor (AR) antagonist which attracts pharmacotherapeutic interest not only because of its beneficial effects in heart failure but also because of the pathogenetic roles of MR and AR activities in neuropsychiatric diseases. Recently, beneficial and rapid‐onset effects of SPL have been documented in a case series of women with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). To reaffirm this observation, we performed a double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial (RCT).

Methods

A total of 69 patients were screened, 56 patients were eligible and randomized to SPL or placebo (each n = 28). Forty‐three patients completed the clinical trial to the last visit (n = 21 and n = 22). After a run‐in phase of 50 and 100 mg/day, 200 mg/day SPL or placebo were applied between days 7 and 28. Primary outcome was the change in the FIQ‐G score (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, German version). Secondary outcome parameters were the changes in pain (numeric rating scale, NRS), mood (ADS), quality of life (SF‐36) and change in FIQ scores 14 days after the end of the medication.

Results

SPL of 200 mg/day did not change significantly either the primary or the secondary end points. SPL evoked a transient rise in serum potassium and a transient fall in GFR maximal after 2 weeks, but without clinical relevance.

Conclusions

SPL at 200 mg/day does not improve symptoms in women with FMS, but was considered not to cause harm.

Significance

The mineralocorticoid receptor and androgen receptor antagonist spironolactone is repeatedly tested for its therapeutic effectivity against neuropsychiatric disorders. The present RCT demonstrated that 200 mg spironolactone does not change the symptoms of the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) in adult women. Between 2 and 4 weeks, spironolactone evokes a transient decrease in GFR and increase in serum potassium. Spironolactone cannot be recommended for the treatment of FMS.
Dysregulation of the Lysophosphatidylcholine/Autotaxin/Lysophosphatidic Acid Axis in Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure Is Associated With Mortality and Systemic Inflammation by Lysophosphatidic Acid–Dependent Monocyte Activation
Authors: Trovato Francesca M. , Zia Rabiya , Napoli Salvatore , Wolfer Kate , Huang Xiaohong , Morgan Phillip E. , Husbyn Hannah , Elgosbi Marwa , Lucangeli Manuele , Miquel Rosa , Wilson Ian , Heaton Nigel David , Heneghan Michael A. , Auzinger Georg , Antoniades Charalambos G. , Wendon Julia A. , Patel Vishal C. , Coen Muireann , Triantafyllou Evangelos , McPhail Mark J.
Published: April 2021

Background & Aims

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by systemic inflammation, monocyte dysfunction, and susceptibility to infection. Lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) are immune‐active lipids whose metabolic regulation and effect on monocyte function in ACLF is open for study.

Approaches & Results

Three hundred forty‐two subjects were recruited and characterized for blood lipid, cytokines, phospholipase (PLA), and autotaxin (ATX) concentration. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and CD14+ monocytes were cultured with LPC, or its autotaxin (ATX)‐derived product, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), with or without lipopolysaccharide stimulation and assessed for surface marker phenotype, cytokines production, ATX and LPA‐receptor expression, and phagocytosis. Hepatic ATX expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Healthy volunteers and patients with sepsis or acute liver failure served as controls. ACLF serum was depleted in LPCs with up‐regulated LPA levels. Patients who died had lower LPC levels than survivors (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.94; P < 0.001). Patients with high‐grade ACLF had the lowest LPC concentrations and these rose over the first 3 days of admission. ATX concentrations were higher in patients with AD and ACLF and correlated with Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease, Consortium on Chronic Liver Failure–Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, and LPC/LPA concentrations. Reduction in LPC correlated with higher monocyte Mer‐tyrosine‐kinase (MerTK) and CD163 expression. Plasma ATX concentrations rose dynamically during ACLF evolution, correlating with IL‐6 and TNF‐α, and were associated with increased hepatocyte ATX expression. ACLF patients had lower human leukocyte antigen‐DR isotype and higher CD163/MerTK monocyte expression than controls; both CD163/MerTK expression levels were reduced in ACLF ex vivo following LPA, but not LPC, treatment. LPA induced up‐regulation of proinflammatory cytokines by CD14+ cells without increasing phagocytic capacity.

Conclusions

ATX up‐regulation in ACLF promotes LPA production from LPC. LPA suppresses MerTK/CD163 expression and increases monocyte proinflammatory cytokine production. This metabolic pathway could be investigated to therapeutically reprogram monocytes in ACLF.
Activation energy effectiveness in dusty Carreau fluid flow along a stretched cylinder due to nonuniform thermal conductivity property and temperature‐dependent heat source/sink
Authors: Mahdy A. , Hady Fekry M. , Mohamed Ramadan A. , Abo‐zaid Omima A.
Published: April 2021

This article studies the boundary layer flow analysis and heat and mass transfer of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Carreau fluid around a stretchable circular cylinder, comprehensively studying the suspended dust particles' impact. Here, the viscous fluid is theorized to be incompressible and loaded with spherical dust particles of the same size. Additionally, heat and sink sources are examined in the thermal boundary layer in the existence of both chemical reaction and activation energy influences. A compatible similarity set of transformations are utilized to mutate the system of partial differential equation formed in momentum and temperature equations of the fluid and dust phases as well the concentration equation into a set of ordinary differential equations. Therefore, the mathematical analysis of the problem facilitates and the numerical estimates of the problem are obtained using MATLAB bvp4c function. Computations are iterated for various values of emerging physical parameters from dimensionless boundary layer conservation equations in terms of temperature and non‐Newtonian Carreau velocity of fluid and dust phases and concentration distribution. Moreover, the terminology of skin friction and Nusselt and Sherwood numbers have been obtained and studied numerically. Some interesting findings in this study are the heat transfer rate dwindles due to the increase of mass concentration of the dust particle. Also, there is a strengthening of the flow with variance in values of the curvature parameter while a weakening has been observed in the thickness of the thermal boundary layer and this hence improves the heat transfer rate. Therefore, the fluid flow around a stretched cylinder would be better, due to its multiple applications in various progressing industrial technologies such as the cement processing industry, plastic foam processing, watering system channels, and so forth. Also, activation energy plays a significant role in various areas such as the oil storage industry, geothermal, and hydrodynamics.  The dusty fluid flow is very important in the field of fluid dynamics and can be found in many natural phenomena such as blood flow, the flow of mud in rivers, and atmospheric flow during mist. Moreover, MHD applications are numerous including power generation, plasma, and liquid metals, and so forth. A perfect agreement between our results and other studies available in the literature is obtained through carrying out a comparison with treating the problem in special circumstances.
Effects of the undecomposed layer and semi‐decomposed layer of Quercus variabilis litter on the soil erosion process and the eroded sediment particle size distribution
Authors: Liu Xiaona , Jia Guodong , Yu Xinxiao
Published: April 2021

Simulated rainfall experiments were performed on bare, undecomposed litter layer and semi‐decomposed litter layer slopes with litter biomasses of 0, 50, 100 and 150 g m−2, respectively, to evaluate the effect of the undecomposed layer and semi‐decomposed layer of Quercus variabilis litter on the soil erosion process and the particle size distribution of eroded sediment. The undecomposed layer and semi‐decomposed layer of litter reduced the runoff rate by 10.91–27.04% and 12.91–36.05%, respectively, and the erosion rate by 13.35–40.98% and 17.16–59.46%, respectively. The percentage of smaller particles (clay and fine silt particles) decreased and the percentage of larger particles (coarse silt and sand particles) increased with an increased rainfall duration on all treated slopes, while the extent of the eroded sediment particle content varied among the treated slopes with the rainfall duration, with bare slopes exhibiting the largest variability, followed by undecomposed litter layer slopes and finally semi‐decomposed litter layer slopes. The clay and sand particles were transported as aggregates, and fine silt and coarse silt particles were transported as primary particles. Compared with the original soil, sediment eroded from all treated slopes was mainly enriched in smaller particles. Furthermore, the loss of the smaller particles from the undecomposed litter layer slopes was lower than that from the semi‐decomposed litter layer slopes, indicating that the undecomposed litter layer alleviated soil coarsening to some extent. The findings from this study improve our understanding of how litter regulates slope erosion and provide a reference for effectively controlling soil erosion.
Advanced oxidation processes for the treatment of winery wastewater: a review and future perspectives
Authors: Davididou Konstantina , Frontistis Zacharias
Published: April 2021

Winemaking is a water‐intensive operation; it is estimated that 70% of the water input is downgraded, mainly via cleaning processes, to wastewater. The quality and the quantity of the waste effluents vary considerably due to the seasonal operation of wineries and the diversity of winemaking technologies applied. High organic load, acidic pH, significant polyphenolic content, and residual concentration of phytosanitary products are included among the main characteristics of winery wastewater (WiWW). Discharge of untreated or partially treated WiWW into watercourses or land poses high environmental risks. To this end, biological oxidation has been thoroughly studied for the treatment of WiWW yielding up to 95% reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD) at a low cost and in an environmentally benign manner. Biological treatment, however, cannot provide a barrier to the slip of bio‐recalcitrant compounds present in WiWW, such as phenols and pesticides, into the environment. The release of these compounds raises serious concerns over ecological well‐being due to their toxicity and endocrine‐disrupting effects. Sustainable post‐treatment technologies are sought, able of breaking down the bio‐recalcitrant fraction of WiWW to harmless products without stressing the environmental resources. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) can offer a sound technological solution towards the integrated WiWW treatment. This paper presents an up‐to‐date overview of the AOPs (TiO2‐, sulfate radical‐, Fe‐, ozone‐based AOPs, and wet oxidation processes) that have been studied for the treatment of WiWW, remarks the most efficient ones, and identifies research areas and concepts aiming towards process sustainability and, ultimately, actual application. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).