bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐Term Variation and Source Apportionment of Black Carbon at Mt. Waliguan, China
Authors: Dai Mingming , Zhu Bin , Fang Chenwei , Zhou Shunwu , Lu Wen , Zhao Delong , Ding Deping , Pan Chen , Liao Hong
Published: October 2021

Black carbon (BC) is a significant driver of global climate change, and its long‐term variation is affected by a combination of anthropogenic activities and meteorological diffusion conditions. However, distinguishing the effects of these two factors on BC variation has proven difficult. In this study, we used the China Black Carbon Observational Network data set to assess the diurnal, seasonal, and long‐term BC trends at Mt. Waliguan (WLG) from 2008 to 2017. The mean BC concentration at WLG was 449 ± 366 ng/m3, with a decreasing trend of 2 %yr−1, which was mainly related to emission reduction measures in China. The BC concentration at WLG was higher under easterly air masses than that under westerly air masses, which suggests that the former are conducive to BC transport from the highly polluted eastern regions. Due to the origin and velocity of air masses, the BC concentration at WLG in summer is higher than that in winter. The intensity of the Tibetan Plateau monsoon had an important positive influence on the easterly air masses frequency, which modulated BC transport to WLG in summer. According to the concentration‐weighted trajectory analysis, the high‐potential BC source regions were distributed in Lanzhou, Chengdu, and Xi'an urban agglomerations as well as in northern India. Community Atmosphere Model 5 simulations with a BC‐tagging technique inferred North Central China, Northwest China, and Indian Peninsula to be the major BC source regions to WLG, accounting for 56.1%, 17.5%, and 12.1% of the total BC, respectively.
Radiation Environment at the Surface and Subsurface of the Moon: Model Development and Validation
Authors: Dobynde Mikhail I. , Guo Jingnan
Published: October 2021

A comprehensive understanding of the lunar radiation environment is essential in preparing for future human exploration of the Moon. The radiation environment on the Moon includes primary space radiation and secondary radiation, which is induced in the lunar soil. Both primary and secondary radiation may pose severe health issues to future crews on the Moon. In this work, we build a detailed radiation environment model “Radiation Environment and Dose at the Moon (REDMoon)” for the lunar surface and subsurface. We use the GEANT4 (GEometry ANd Tracking) Monte‐Carlo code and “response function” approach to calculate type‐, energy‐, angular‐, depth‐, and time‐dependent particle spectra induced by galactic cosmic rays at the surface and subsurface of the Moon. Calculated radiation particle fluxes on and beneath the surface are in good agreement with previous experimental and numerical results while offering more details on the lunar radiation fields, such as angular and depth information. The depth profile of secondary particle spectra in the lunar soil has a maximum between 0.5 and 1 m below the surface, depending on particle type and energy. The angular distribution of secondary particles (in particular neutron, ‐rays, electrons) with energy 1 MeV is mostly isotropic, while higher energy particles preferentially propagate downward. Our model provides full coverage of the spatial, directional, and energy information of the radiation field at the surface and subsurface of the Moon, which can serve for designing future human bases on the Moon.
Determining the Effect of Varying Magmatic Volatile Content on Lunar Magma Ascent Dynamics
Authors: Lo M. , La Spina G. , Joy K. H. , Polacci M. , Burton M.
Published: October 2021

The Moon is not volcanically active at present, therefore, we rely on data from lunar samples, remote sensing, and numerical modeling to understand past lunar volcanism. The role of different volatile species in propelling lunar magma ascent and eruption remains unclear. We adapt a terrestrial magma ascent model for lunar magma ascent, considering different compositions of picritic magmas and various abundances of H2, H2O, and CO (measured and estimated) for these magmas. We also conduct a sensitivity analysis to investigate the relationship between selected input parameters (pre‐eruptive pressure, temperature, conduit radius, and volatile content) and given outputs (exit gas volume fraction, velocity, pressure, and mass eruption rate). We find that, for the model simulations containing H2O and CO, CO was more significant than H2O in driving lunar magma ascent, for the range of volatile contents considered here. For the simulations containing H2 and CO, H2 had a similar or slightly greater control than CO on magma ascent dynamics. Our results showed that initial H2 and CO content has a strong control on exit velocity and pressure, two factors that strongly influence the formation of an eruption plume, pyroclast ejection, and overall deposit morphology. Our results highlight the importance of (a) quantifying and determining the origin of CO, and (b) understanding the abundance of different H‐species present within the lunar mantle. Quantifying the role of volatiles in driving lunar volcanism provides an important link between the interior volatile content of the Moon and the formation of volcanic deposits on the lunar surface.
Anticipatory Drainage Base Management for Groundwater Level Optimization
Authors: van de Craats D. , van der Zee S. E. A. T. M. , Leijnse A.
Published: October 2021

Controlled drainage is normally operated on a seasonal timescale to increase availability of water and to limit nutrient loss to surface water. It is conceivable that with more frequent, or even daily, management of the drainage base, controlled drainage can be both more efficient and effective. With the analytical successive steady state model presented here, rapid simulations of groundwater level and discharge as a function of time for a field under either regular or controlled drainage are feasible. The model includes effects of sudden changes in drainage base as well as damping and attenuation of dynamics by the unsaturated zone. It is validated against a numerical model and shows good agreement with numerical results. We demonstrate how this analytical model may facilitate anticipatory drainage base management based on ensemble weather forecasts, such that groundwater levels can be maintained at a theoretical optimal level.
Investigating the Effects of Land Use Change on Subsurface, Surface, and Atmospheric Branches of the Hydrologic Cycle in Central Argentina
Authors: Pal Sujan , Dominguez Francina , Bollatti Pablo , Oncley Steven P. , Yang Yi , Alvarez Javier , Garcia Carlos M.
Published: October 2021

Since the 1970s, land cover in central Argentina has shifted away from perennial crops and grasses toward annual crops, largely soy. In this study, we use observations and modeling to understand how this shift in land use has affected the sub‐surface, surface, and atmospheric fluxes of moisture and energy in a flat agricultural area. We analyze the flux tower data from a paired site at Marcos Juarez in central Argentina during the period of the RELAMPAGO field campaign (2018–2019). When compared to perennial alfalfa, the observations over soy show lower evapotranspiration (ET) and specific humidity, higher sensible heat, higher outgoing shortwave radiation, and soil temperature. Water table (WT) depth is shallower below the soy than the alfalfa sites. To better understand the long‐term temporal behavior from 1970s to present, the Budyko framework is used to show that the trends in ET cannot be explained by climate variables alone. We then use the Noah‐MP land surface model calibrated at both soy and alfalfa sites. Long‐term simulations of the calibrated model suggests that ∼95% of precipitation is evaporated in the alfalfa site with negligible recharge and runoff. Contrarily in the case of soy, ET is about 68% of precipitation, leaving nearly 28% for recharge and 4% for runoff. Observed increases in streamflow and decreases in WT depth over time are likely linked to shifts in land cover. Furthermore, the partitioning of net radiation shifts from latent heat to sensible heat resulting in a 250% increase in Bowen ratio (from 0.2 to 0.7).
Characteristics of Dissolved Organic Carbon in Boreal Lakes: High Spatial and Inter‐Annual Variability Controlled by Landscape Attributes and Wet‐Dry Periods
Authors: Pugh E. A. , Olefeldt D. , Leader S. N. , Hokanson K. J. , Devito K. J.
Published: October 2021

Concentration and chemical composition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) influence several lake functions; greenhouse gas exchange, nutrient cycling, food webs, and water treatability. To assess spatial and inter‐annual controls on DOC characteristics, 34 lakes were sampled annually for 8 years on the Boreal Plains, Western Canada—a region with heterogeneous surficial geology, and a sub‐humid climate with pronounced inter‐annual wet‐dry periods. Large spatial variability in long‐term average DOC concentration (10–49 mg C L−1) and aromaticity (SUVA254: 1.2–3.9 L mg−1 C m−1) among lakes was found. Higher DOC concentrations and aromaticity were associated with lakes in watersheds with fine‐textured surficial geology and with relatively large contributions through shallow, organic‐rich flow paths. Lake DOC aromaticity was also higher in lakes with lower evaporative enrichment, regardless of surficial geology, indicating shorter lake water residence times and less within‐lake degradation of allochthonous DOC. High inter‐annual variability for both DOC and aromaticity was observed, with coefficients of variation at 10.9 ± 4.6% and 11.1 ± 2.5% among lakes, respectively. Inter‐annual variability in DOC concentrations had low synchronicity among lakes, with patterns of variability linked to surficial geology and primarily responsive to short‐term cumulative precipitation. Conversely, inter‐annual variability in aromaticity had high synchronicity among lakes, driven by longer‐term cumulative precipitation and shifts in lake water residence times. Our study shows it is necessary to consider lake hydrogeomorphic setting and climate to understand spatial and inter‐annual variability in lake DOC characteristics and associated lake functions, and that Boreal Plains lakes have high climate sensitivity.
RANBP10 promotes glioblastoma progression by regulating the FBXW7/c-Myc pathway
Authors: Hou Jianbing , Liu Yudong , Huang Pan , Wang Yutao , Pei Dakun , Tan Ruoyue , Zhang Yundong , Cui Hongjuan
Published: October 2021

RAN binding protein 10 (RANBP10), a ubiquitously expressed and evolutionarily conserved protein, as a RAN-GTP exchange factor (GEF) to regulate several factors involved in cellular progression. Previous studies showed that RANBP10 was overexpressed in prostate cancer cells and was responsible for androgen receptor (AR) activation. However, the biological function of RANBP10 in glioblastoma (GBM) has not been studied. Here, we found that RANBP10 was overexpressed in GBM, and high RANBP10 expression was closely linked to poor survival of patients with GBM. Downregulation of RANBP10 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumor growth of GBM cells. In addition, we revealed that RANBP10 could suppress the promoter activity of FBXW7, and thereby increase the protein stability of c-Myc in GBM cells. Silencing of FBXW7 in RANBP10-knockdown GBM cells could partly negate the effects induced by RANBP10 downregulation. Taken together, our findings established that RANBP10 significantly promoted GBM progression by control of the FBXW7–c-Myc axis, and suggest that RANBP10 may be a potential target in GBM.
Identification of histone methyltransferase NSD2 as an important oncogenic gene in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhao Li-hao , Li Quan , Huang Zhi-Jun , Sun Mi-Xue , Lu Jing-jing , Zhang Xiao-hua , Li Gang , Wu Fang
Published: October 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second common cause of cancer-related human mortalities. Dysregulation of histone 3 (H3) methylation could lead to transcriptional activation of multiple oncogenes, which is closely associated with CRC tumorigenesis and progression. Nuclear receptor-binding SET Domain protein 2 (NSD2) is a key histone methyltransferase catalyzing histone H3 lysine 36 dimethylation (H3K36me2). Its expression, the potential functions, and molecular mechanisms in CRC are studied here. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) bioinformatics results showed that the NSD2 mRNA expression is elevated in both colon cancers and rectal cancers. Furthermore, NSD2 mRNA and protein expression levels in local colon cancer tissues are significantly higher than those in matched surrounding normal tissues. In primary human colon cancer cells and established CRC cell lines, shRNA-induced silencing or CRISPR/Cas9-induced knockout of NSD2 inhibited cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, NSD2 shRNA or knockout induced mitochondrial depolarization, DNA damage, and apoptosis in the primary and established CRC cells. Contrarily, ectopic NSD2 overexpression in primary colon cancer cells further enhanced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. H3K36me2, expressions of multiple oncogenes (ADAM9, EGFR, Sox2, Bcl-2, SYK, and MET) and Akt activation were significantly decreased after NSD2 silencing or knockout in primary colon cancer cells. Their levels were however increased after ectopic NSD2 overexpression. A catalytic inactive NSD2 (Y1179A) also inhibited H3K36me2, multiple oncogenes expression, and Akt activation, as well as cell proliferation and migration in primary colon cancer cells. In vivo, intratumoral injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-packed NSD2 shRNA largely inhibited primary colon cancer cell xenograft growth in nude mice. Together, NSD2 exerted oncogenic functions in CRC and could be a promising therapeutic target.
Intertwined ferroelectricity and topological state in two-dimensional multilayer
Authors: Liang Yan , Mao Ning , Dai Ying , Kou Liangzhi , Huang Baibiao , Ma Yandong
Published: October 2021

The intertwined ferroelectricity and band topology will enable the non-volatile control of the topological states, which is of importance for nanoelectrics with low energy costing and high response speed. Nonetheless, the principle to design such system is unclear and the feasible approach to achieve the coexistence of two parameter orders is absent. Here, we propose a general paradigm to design 2D ferroelectric topological insulators by sliding topological multilayers on the basis of first-principles calculations. Taking trilayer Bi2Te3 as a model system, we show that in the van der Waals multilayer based 2D topological insulators, the in-plane and out-of-plane ferroelectricity can be induced through a specific interlayer sliding, to enable the coexistence of ferroelectric and topological orders. The strong coupling of the order parameters renders the topological states sensitive to polarization flip, realizing non-volatile ferroelectric control of topological properties. The revealed design-guideline and ferroelectric-topological coupling not only are useful for the fundamental research of the coupled ferroelectric and topological physics in 2D lattices, but also enable innovative applications in nanodevices.
Hybrid immunity improves B cells and antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Andreano Emanuele , Paciello Ida , Piccini Giulia , Manganaro Noemi , Pileri Piero , Hyseni Inesa , Leonardi Margherita , Pantano Elisa , Abbiento Valentina , Benincasa Linda , Giglioli Ginevra , De Santi Concetta , Fabbiani Massimiliano , Rancan Ilaria , Tumbarello Mario , Montagnani Francesca , Sala Claudia , Montomoli Emanuele , Rappuoli Rino
Published: October 2021

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants is jeopardizing the effectiveness of current vaccines and limiting the application of monoclonal antibody-based therapy for COVID-19 (refs. 1,2). Here we analysed the memory B cells of five naive and five convalescent people vaccinated with the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine to investigate the nature of the B cell and antibody response at the single-cell level. Almost 6,000 cells were sorted, over 3,000 cells produced monoclonal antibodies against the spike protein and more than 400 cells neutralized the original SARS-CoV-2 virus first identified in Wuhan, China. The B.1.351 (Beta) and B.1.1.248 (Gamma) variants escaped almost 70% of these antibodies, while a much smaller portion was impacted by the B.1.1.7 (Alpha) and B.1.617.2 (Delta) variants. The overall loss of neutralization was always significantly higher in the antibodies from naive people. In part, this was due to the IGHV2-5;IGHJ4-1 germline, which was found only in people who were convalescent and generated potent and broadly neutralizing antibodies. Our data suggest that people who are seropositive following infection or primary vaccination will produce antibodies with increased potency and breadth and will be able to better control emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Transparent, self-cleaning, scratch resistance and environment friendly coatings for glass substrate and their potential applications in outdoor and automobile industry
Authors: Shahzadi Phool , Gilani Syeda Rubina , Rana Bakht Bahadur , Ghaffar Abdul , Munir Akhtar
Published: October 2021

In this research work six novel combinations of Hydroxy Ethyl Meth Acrylate based copolymers have been synthesized and commercial titania, after activation was added by adopting simple strategy to manufacture super-hydrophobic, cost effective, transparent, antifogging, self-cleaning and antimicrobial coating on the glass sheet which will be helpful for outdoor and automobile windscreen. The super-hydrophobic covering was set up by dip covering procedure and coated specimen have been characterized for Wetting behaviour, transparency and SEM analysis. Likewise, the dependability of the coating was evaluated at conditions comparable strengthening at higher temperatures (4–400 °C), illumination by UV spectrum at basic and acidic limits, Results revealed that developed material has good adhesion with glass and shows transparency more than 97%, and water contact edge (CA) of 135 ± 2°. Furthermore, the covering displays astounding self-cleaning property. All the outcomes demonstrated that such kind of coatings could be used many modern level applications on automobile wind screen and glass-windows in building and other glasses where protection from UV radiation, anti-fogging and cleaning is required. Such type of coating material can also be used to preserve architectural work leather and other decoration and artwork. The graphical representation is given in Fig. 1.
Mathematical epidemiologic and simulation modelling of first wave COVID-19 in Malaysia
Authors: Ariffin Muhammad Rezal Kamel , Gopal Kathiresan , Krishnarajah Isthrinayagy , Che Ilias Iszuanie Syafidza , Adam Mohd Bakri , Arasan Jayanthi , Abd Rahman Nur Haizum , Mohd Dom Nur Sumirah , Mohammad Sham Noraishah
Published: October 2021

Since the first coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak appeared in Wuhan, mainland China on December 31, 2019, the geographical spread of the epidemic was swift. Malaysia is one of the countries that were hit substantially by the outbreak, particularly in the second wave. This study aims to simulate the infectious trend and trajectory of COVID-19 to understand the severity of the disease and determine the approximate number of days required for the trend to decline. The number of confirmed positive infectious cases [as reported by Ministry of Health, Malaysia (MOH)] were used from January 25, 2020 to March 31, 2020. This study simulated the infectious count for the same duration to assess the predictive capability of the Susceptible-Infectious-Recovered (SIR) model. The same model was used to project the simulation trajectory of confirmed positive infectious cases for 80 days from the beginning of the outbreak and extended the trajectory for another 30 days to obtain an overall picture of the severity of the disease in Malaysia. The transmission rate, β also been utilized to predict the cumulative number of infectious individuals. Using the SIR model, the simulated infectious cases count obtained was not far from the actual count. The simulated trend was able to mimic the actual count and capture the actual spikes approximately. The infectious trajectory simulation for 80 days and the extended trajectory for 110 days depicts that the inclining trend has peaked and ended and will decline towards late April 2020. Furthermore, the predicted cumulative number of infectious individuals tallies with the preparations undertaken by the MOH. The simulation indicates the severity of COVID-19 disease in Malaysia, suggesting a peak of infectiousness in mid-March 2020 and a probable decline in late April 2020. Overall, the study findings indicate that outbreak control measures such as the Movement Control Order (MCO), social distancing and increased hygienic awareness is needed to control the transmission of the outbreak in Malaysia.
Application of long short-term memory neural network technique for predicting monthly pan evaporation
Authors: Abed Mustafa , Imteaz Monzur Alam , Ahmed Ali Najah , Huang Yuk Feng
Published: October 2021

Evaporation is a key element for water resource management, hydrological modelling, and irrigation system designing. Monthly evaporation (Ep) was projected by deploying three machine learning (ML) models included Extreme Gradient Boosting, ElasticNet Linear Regression, and Long Short-Term Memory; and two empirical techniques namely Stephens-Stewart and Thornthwaite. The aim of this study is to develop a reliable generalised model to predict evaporation throughout Malaysia. In this context, monthly meteorological statistics from two weather stations in Malaysia were utilised for training and testing the models on the basis of climatic aspects such as maximum temperature, mean temperature, minimum temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and solar radiation for the period of 2000–2019. For every approach, multiple models were formulated by utilising various combinations of input parameters and other model factors. The performance of models was assessed by utilising standard statistical measures. The outcomes indicated that the three machine learning models formulated outclassed empirical models and could considerably enhance the precision of monthly Ep estimate even with the same combinations of inputs. In addition, the performance assessment showed that Long Short-Term Memory Neural Network (LSTM) offered the most precise monthly Ep estimations from all the studied models for both stations. The LSTM-10 model performance measures were (R2 = 0.970, MAE = 0.135, MSE = 0.027, RMSE = 0.166, RAE = 0.173, RSE = 0.029) for Alor Setar and (R2 = 0.986, MAE = 0.058, MSE = 0.005, RMSE = 0.074, RAE = 0.120, RSE = 0.013) for Kota Bharu.
Metabolic derangement in polycystic kidney disease mouse models is ameliorated by mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants
Authors: Daneshgar Nastaran , Baguley Andrew W. , Liang Peir-In , Wu Fei , Chu Yi , Kinter Michael T. , Benavides Gloria A. , Johnson Michelle S. , Darley-Usmar Victor , Zhang Jianhua , Chan Kung-Sik , Dai Dao-Fu
Published: October 2021

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is characterized by progressively enlarging cysts. Here we elucidate the interplay between oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and metabolic derangement using two mouse models of PKD1 mutation, PKD1RC/nulland PKD1RC/RC. Mouse kidneys with PKD1 mutation have decreased mitochondrial complexes activity. Targeted proteomics analysis shows a significant decrease in proteins involved in the TCA cycle, fatty acid oxidation (FAO), respiratory complexes, and endogenous antioxidants. Overexpressing mitochondrial-targeted catalase (mCAT) using adeno-associated virus reduces mitochondrial ROS, oxidative damage, ameliorates the progression of PKD and partially restores expression of proteins involved in FAO and the TCA cycle. In human ADPKD cells, inducing mitochondrial ROS increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation and decreased AMPK phosphorylation, whereas the converse was observed with increased scavenging of ROS in the mitochondria. Treatment with the mitochondrial protective peptide, SS31, recapitulates the beneficial effects of mCAT, supporting its potential application as a novel therapeutic for ADPKD.
Cyclic chain displacement amplification-based dual-miRNA detection: a triple-line lateral flow strip for the diagnosis of lung cancer
Authors: Zhou Ping , Lu Fei , Pan Wei , Yin Jiaqi , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: October 2021

A dual-miRNA detection platform based on cyclic chain displacement amplification was developed for the diagnosis of lung cancer in a triple-line lateral flow strip.
Reactive molten-flux assisted syntheses of single crystals of Cs19Ln19Mn10Te48 (Ln = Pr and Gd) crystallizing in a new structure type
Authors: Panigrahi Gopabandhu , Jana Subhendu , Narayanswamy S. , Bhattacharjee Pinaki P. , Niranjan Manish K. , Prakash Jai
Published: October 2021

Two new complex layered quaternary tellurides, Cs19Ln19Mn10Te48 (Ln = Pr and Gd), were synthesized by the reactive molten flux method. The title compounds represent an unprecedented structure type.
Electronic properties of 2D and 1D carbon allotropes based on a triphenylene structural unit
Authors: dos Santos Mário Rocha , Silva Paloma Vieira , Meunier Vincent , Girão Eduardo Costa
Published: October 2021

Concatenation of triphenylene-like building blocks to construct a triphenylene 2D network, together with a representation of its (I) metallic spin-compensated and (II) anti-ferromagnetic spin-polarized semiconducting configurations.
Promising thermoelectric candidate based on a CaAs3 monolayer: A first principles study
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Dingbo , Wang Hui , Chen Yuanzheng , Wang Hongyan , Ni Yuxiang
Published: October 2021

The CaAs3 monolayer is a newly predicted two-dimensional material with attractive properties, such as a moderate direct bandgap, high carrier mobility, prominent visible-light absorption, etc.
Optofluidic ptychography on a chip
Authors: Song Pengming , Guo Chengfei , Jiang Shaowei , Wang Tianbo , Hu Patrick , Hu Derek , Zhang Zibang , Feng Bin , Zheng Guoan
Published: October 2021

We demonstrate high-resolution ptychographic imaging in a flow cytometer configuration. The device complements the miniaturization provided by microfluidics and allows the integration of ptychographic microscopy into various lab-on-a-chip systems.
Modulating electron population pathways for time-dependent dynamic multicolor displays
Authors: Xu Weixin , Lei Lei , Wang Yubin , Liu Enyang , Chen Liang , Xu Shiqing
Published: October 2021

Na3HfF7:Yb/Er NPs exhibit a bright green afterglow after X-ray irradiation. The emission color of these pre-X-ray-irradiated NPs is evidently changed from green to red naturally upon 980 nm laser excitation.
N-Heterocyclic carbene-palladium-PEPPSI complexes and their catalytic activity in the direct C–H bond activation of heteroarene derivatives with aryl bromides: synthesis, and antimicrobial and antioxidant activities
Authors: Hamdi N. , Slimani I. , Mansour L. , Alresheedi Faisal , Gürbüz N. , Özdemir I.
Published: October 2021

The Pd–NHC–PEPPSI complexes were used as catalysts in the direct C5-arylation of 2-acetyl furan, 2-acetylthiophene, and 2n-propylthiazole with different aryl bromides and were evaluated for their potential antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
Ferrihydrite nanoparticles as the photosensitizer augment microbial infected wound healing with blue light
Authors: Tian Qing , Yang Yingchun , Li Aipeng , Chen Yao , Li Yixiao , Sun Leming , Shang Li , Gao Lizeng , Zhang Lianbing
Published: October 2021

Ferrihydrite nanoparticles (Fhn) as a photosensitizer enhanced the antimicrobial activity and wound healing of blue light, which combined antimicrobial activity, revascularization, and anti-inflammatory effects.
The synthesis of pure and uniform nanosized TS-1 crystals with a high titanium content and a high space–time yield
Authors: Zhang Lejian , Zhu Xiaoxiao , Wang Xinping , Shi Chuan
Published: October 2021

Concentrated basic MFI building unit species played a key role in the crystal synthesis of uniform nanosized anatase-free titanium-rich TS-1.
Correction: Self-reconstruction mediates isolated Pt tailored nanoframes for highly efficient catalysis
Authors: Zuo Yunpeng , Rao Dewei , Zhang Ning , Li Tingting , Jing Tianyun , Kment Štěpán , Sofer Zdenek , Chai Yang
Published: October 2021

Correction for ‘Self-reconstruction mediates isolated Pt tailored nanoframes for highly efficient catalysis’ by Yunpeng Zuo et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021, DOI: 10.1039/d1ta05411b.
AMPK activation by SC4 inhibits noradrenaline-induced lipolysis and insulin-stimulated lipogenesis in white adipose tissue
Authors: Chuang Sheng-Ju , Johanns Manuel , Pyr dit Ruys Sébastien , Steinberg Gregory R. , Kemp Bruce E. , Viollet Benoît , Rider Mark H.
Published: October 2021

The effects of small-molecule AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activators in rat epididymal adipocytes were compared. SC4 was the most effective and submaximal doses of SC4 and 5-amino-4-imidazolecarboxamide (AICA) riboside were combined to study the effects of AMPK activation in white adipose tissue (WAT). Incubation of rat adipocytes with SC4 + AICA riboside inhibited noradrenaline-induced lipolysis and decreased hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) Ser563 phosphorylation, without affecting HSL Ser565 phosphorylation. Preincubation of fat pads from wild-type (WT) mice with SC4 + AICA riboside inhibited insulin-stimulated lipogenesis from glucose or acetate and these effects were lost in AMPKα1 knockout (KO) mice, indicating AMPKα1 dependency. Moreover, in fat pads from acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC)1/2 S79A/S212A double knockin versus WT mice, the effect of SC4 + AICA riboside to inhibit insulin-stimulated lipogenesis from acetate was lost, pinpointing ACC as the main AMPK target. Treatment with SC4 + AICA riboside decreased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, an effect that was still observed in fat pads from AMPKα1 KO versus WT mice, suggesting the effect was partly AMPKα1-independent. SC4 + AICA riboside treatment had no effect on the insulin-induced increase in palmitate esterification nor on sn-glycerol-3-phosphate-O-acyltransferase activity. Therefore in WAT, AMPK activation inhibits noradrenaline-induced lipolysis and suppresses insulin-stimulated lipogenesis primarily by inactivating ACC and by inhibiting glucose uptake.
Programmed DNA elimination: silencing genes and repetitive sequences in somatic cells
Authors: Zagoskin Maxim V. , Wang Jianbin
Published: October 2021

In a multicellular organism, the genomes of all cells are in general the same. Programmed DNA elimination is a notable exception to this genome constancy rule. DNA elimination removes genes and repetitive elements in the germline genome to form a reduced somatic genome in various organisms. The process of DNA elimination within an organism is highly accurate and reproducible; it typically occurs during early embryogenesis, coincident with germline-soma differentiation. DNA elimination provides a mechanism to silence selected genes and repeats in somatic cells. Recent studies in nematodes suggest that DNA elimination removes all chromosome ends, resolves sex chromosome fusions, and may also promote the birth of novel genes. Programmed DNA elimination processes are diverse among species, suggesting DNA elimination likely has evolved multiple times in different taxa. The growing list of organisms that undergo DNA elimination indicates that DNA elimination may be more widespread than previously appreciated. These various organisms will serve as complementary and comparative models to study the function, mechanism, and evolution of programmed DNA elimination in metazoans.
Addressing Emotional and Psychological Problems Associated With Hearing Loss: Perspective of Consumer and Community Representatives
Authors: Bennett Rebecca J. , Donaldson Sara , Kelsall-Foreman India , Meyer Carly , Pachana Nancy A. , Saulsman Lisa , Eikelboom Robert H. , Bucks Romola S.
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

Hearing loss causes emotional distress and can contribute to the development of psychological difficulties, yet emotional and psychological issues are not addressed within current audiology services. The purpose of this study was to use focus groups with consumer and community representatives to explore how we might improve the provision of support for clients experiencing emotional and psychological issues in relation to their hearing loss.

Participants:

Adults with hearing loss (
n
= 19) and their significant others (
n
= 9), as well as 10 hearing health care professionals (
n
= 4 hearing health care clinicians,
n
= 4 reception staff, and
n
= 2 clinical managers), participated in consumer and community engagement focus groups.

Method:

Consumer and community representatives were tasked with (a) identifying the stakeholders involved in supporting adults experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties on account of their hearing loss, (b) describing the behaviors undertaken by each stakeholder group, and (c) selecting target behavior(s) that could optimally form the basis of an intervention program to improve the quality and frequency of support provided to people experiencing emotional and psychological problems in the audiology setting.

Results:

Participants identified 12 stakeholder groups involved in supporting adults with hearing loss experiencing emotional and psychological problems. The three behaviors voted by participants to be the most promising for a behavioral intervention included the clinician (a) asking about, (b) providing information on, and (c) delivering therapeutic intervention for emotional and psychological well-being within audiological service provision.

Conclusion:

Consumer and community stakeholder representatives indicate a general desire for hearing health care clinicians to deliver support for the emotional and psychological issues that arise relating to hearing loss.
Predictive factors affecting long-term survivorship of ASR metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Agarwala Sanjay , Vijayvargiya Mayank
Published: October 2021

Introduction: We present the outcome of 154 ASR (Articular Surface Replacement) hips performed at the P.D Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre in terms of revision rate, metal ion levels, and factors affecting survivorship. Further, determined the importance of serial metal ion estimation over single value with poorly functioning arthroplasties. Methods: A retrospective study of 154 ASR arthroplasties (136 patients) performed from April 2005 till March 2010 was conducted. Ninety-seven patients were available for final analysis. All patients were assessed for symptoms, radiographs, blood metal (chromium and cobalt), metal artefact reduction sequence (MARS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computerized tomography (CT). Results: Female gender, smaller femoral head, patients with a rising level of metal ion levels were more likely to have revision surgery. However, abnormal acetabular inclination/anteversion was not associated with the occurrence of raised metal ion levels, ARMD (adverse reaction to metal debris) or revision surgery. Patients with raised metal ion levels were more likely to have periprosthetic lucency, ARMD, and revision surgery. Median metal levels increased initially for the first three years. Still, patients who required revision surgery continued to have a metal ion rise until the point when revision surgery was performed. In contrast, patients who had a fall in metal ion levels did not require revision. Conclusion: A single metal ion value is less predictive of failing arthroplasties; instead, a rising trend of metal ion levels can better delineate arthroplasties which will require revision. ASR hips whose blood ion levels fell after an initial rise and showed a declining trend did well.
Sprunggelenk- und Vorfußtherapie in der Rheumatologie
– wie lange können wir den aufrechten Gang
erhalten?
Authors: Gaulke Ralph
Published: October 2021

Die Therapie des rheumatischen Fußes ist komplex und erstreckt sich
über ein breites Spektrum von konservativen und operativen
Behandlungsmethoden. Das Ziel ist, bei guter Stabilität,
möglichst viel Beweglichkeit zu erhalten. Nebenerkrankungen wie die
Polyneuropathie mit und ohne Diabetes mellitus beeinflussen die
Behandlungsoptionen entscheidend. Aufgrund dessen, dass beim Rheumatiker
multiple Gelenke befallen sind, unterliegen die orthopädische
Schuhversorgung und die operative Therapie des rheumatischen Fußes
speziellen Anforderungen im Hinblick auf das Gewicht, die Stabilität des
Schuhs und Bettung des Fußes bzw. die Zugangswege und die
Primärstabilität der Osteosynthesen. Der aufrechte Gang kann
durch einen stadiengerechten zielgerichteten Einsatz aller Therapieoption sehr
lange erhalten bleiben. Hierfür müssen die therapeutischen
Fenster erkannt und genutzt sowie eine Übertherapie vermieden
werden.
Funktionelle Charakterisierung von Patienten mit isoliert postkapillärer oder kombiniert post- und präkapillärer pulmonaler Hypertonie
Authors: Held Matthias , Weiner Simon , Walthelm Johanna , Joa Franziska , Hoffmann Jörg , Güder Gülmisal , Pfeuffer-Jovic Elena
Published: October 2021

Hintergrund Nach Empfehlungen der letzten PH-Weltkonferenz wird die Differenzierung von isoliert postkapillärer (Ipc) und kombiniert post- und präkapillärer (Cpc) PH allein nach pulmonal-vaskulärem Widerstand (PVR) empfohlen. Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, Patienten mit IpcPH und CpcPH nach den aktualisierten Empfehlungen basierend auf der letzten Weltkonferenz für pulmonale Hypertonie (PH) hämodynamisch und im Rahmen einer explorativen Datenanalyse funktionell zu charakterisieren.

Methoden Evaluiert wurden Patienten, die sich von 2008 bis 2015 in der PH-Ambulanz der Missioklinik Würzburg mit Verdacht auf PH zur leitlinienkonformen Diagnostik vorstellten. Analysiert wurden alle Patienten mit einem pulmonal-arteriellen Mitteldruck (mPAP) von ≥ 25 mmHg und einem pulmonalkapillären Verschlussdruck (PCWP) > 15 mmHg. Es erfolgte der Vergleich anthropometrischer, hämodynamischer und funktioneller Daten aus 6-Minuten-Gehtest (6MWT), Spiroergometrie und Echokardiografie bei IpcPH und CpcPH.

Ergebnisse Von 726 Patienten zeigten 58 eine postkapilläre PH: IpcPH: n = 20; CpcPH: n = 38. Patienten mit IpcPH besaßen einen signifikant niedrigeren mPAP und PVR als Patienten mit CpcPH. Der Herzindex war in der CpcPH-Gruppe niedriger als in der IpcPH-Gruppe. Die funktionelle Kapazität beider Gruppen war nicht verschieden. Patienten mit CpcPH hatten einen größeren rechts-linksatrialen Flächen(RA/LA)-Quotienten.

Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung Trotz höherem mPAP und PVR von Patienten mit CpcPH findet sich keine schlechtere funktionelle Kapazität als bei IpcPH. Bei Patienten mit Linksherzerkrankungen und PH kann ein erhöhter RA/LA-Index ein möglicher Hinweis für eine CpcPH sein und Anlass zur invasiven Diagnostik geben.
Examination of common swifts (Apus apus) for salmonella shedding in the area of Hannover, Lower Saxony, Germany
Authors: Tiyawattanaroj Warakorn , Jung Arne , Mohr Lydia , Legler Marko
Published: October 2021

Objective The available literature indicates a high prevalence of the zoonotic pathogen Salmonella (S.) enterica serovar Infantis in the common swift (Apus apus). This long-distance migrant, which only consumes aerial plankton, can reach high population densities in places with suitable breeding sites. Dedicated competent private persons take part in the hand rearing of juvenile common swifts in wildlife rescue centres, which unavoidably results in close contact with these avian patients. For this reason, we examined common swifts for shedding of Salmonella spp.

Material and methods In the years 2014 and 2019, intestinal swabs or fresh faeces of common swifts (2014: n = 54; 2019: n = 62) were examined microbiologically (DIN EN ISO 6579; Annex D) in the area of Hannover, Lower Saxony, Germany.

Results Salmonella spp. could not be detected in any of the examined common swifts within the investigation period and the studied area in 2014 and 2019.

Conclusion and clinical relevance The results illustrate that the common swift is unlikely to be a natural reservoir of Salmonella spp. For the transmission of salmonella by swifts the local conditions with the corresponding environmental impact seem to play a significant role, and the risk of transmission should be assessed according to the region to be examined.
Acceptance of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines by liver transplant recipients and candidates
Authors: Reuken Philipp A. , Albers Stefanie , Rauchfuss Falk , Strnad Pavel , Settmacher Utz , Trautwein Christian , Stallmach Andreas , Bruns Tony
Published: October 2021

Guidelines recommend vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in transplant recipients, candidates, and their household contacts. However, little is known about the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines in these groups.

In March 2021, we surveyed 826 liver transplant recipients, candidates, and their household contacts to determine acceptance rates and factors influencing the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine; 341 patients (40%) and 237 household contacts (28%) returned the questionnaire. Ninety percent of patients returning the survey reported they were willing to receive the vaccine within the next 6 months or had already started vaccination. Only 2% of patients and 4% of household contacts reported refusing the vaccine, and 8% of patients and 9% of household contacts wanted to postpone vaccination because of concerns about side effects. Having received the influenza vaccine in the last 2 seasons was the strongest indicator of acceptance to receive the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine within 6 months (odds ratio 5.11; 95% confidence interval 2.43–10.74; p < 0.001). Thirty-two percent of responding patients reported fear of side effects as a reason for having refused vaccination before.

Although the acceptance of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine was particularly high among German liver transplant recipients, candidates, and household contacts in this survey, transplant physicians are encouraged to discuss safety concerns with patients who have refused the seasonal influenza vaccine in the past.
Enantioselective C–H Alkylation of N-Arylbenzamides with Vinyl Ethers Catalyzed by an Iridium/Chiral Phosphoramidite–Olefin Complex
Authors: Nishimura Takahiro , Murakami Kotone , Sakamoto Kana
Published: October 2021

Chiral phosphoramidite–olefin hybrid ligands were found to be effective in the iridium-catalyzed asymmetric alkylation of N-arylbenzamides with vinyl ethers. The reaction is catalyzed by a hydroxo­iridium catalyst coordinated with the hybrid ligand to give the corresponding products in high yields with high branch selectivity and enantioselectivity.
C–H Amination of Nitro Azaheterocyclic Compounds by Vicarious Nucleophilic Substitution
Authors: Cai Chun , Zhou Ru-Shuang
Published: October 2021

Various nitro azaheterocyclic compounds were subjected to C–H amination by vicarious nucleophilic substitution with 4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-amine (ATA). The aminated products were characterized by NMR, mass spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. The substrates examined gave moderate to excellent yields (30–88%) and showed good regioselectivities. This protocol offers the advantages of mild conditions, a short reaction time (2–4 hours), and an inexpensive, commercially available, and less-toxic amination reagent; moreover, no additional catalyst or reagent is needed. A possible reaction mechanism is discussed.
Association of Intrapartum Drugs with Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation: A Single-Center Retrospective Review
Authors: Mantle Ashley , Yang Michelle J. , Judkins Allison , Chanthavong Iwa , Yoder Bradley A. , Chan Belinda
Published: October 2021

Objective Spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) occurs commonly in extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANs; <30 weeks' GA). Early, concurrent neonatal use of indomethacin (Neo_IN) and hydrocortisone (Neo_HC) is a known risk for SIP. Mothers in premature labor often receive indomethacin (Mat_IN) for tocolysis and steroids (Mat_S) for fetal maturation. Coincidentally, ELGANs may receive Neo_IN or Neo_HC within the first week of life. There are limited data on the effect of combined exposures to maternal and neonatal medications. We hypothesized that proximity exposure to these medications may increase the risk of SIP.

Study Design We reviewed the medical records of ELGANs from June 2014 to December 2019 at a single level III neonatal intensive care unit. We compared antenatal and postnatal indomethacin and steroid use between neonates with and without SIP. For analysis, chi-square, Student's t-test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann–Whitney U tests were used.

Results Among 417 ELGANs, SIP was diagnosed in 23, predominantly in neonates < 26 weeks' GA (n = 21/126, 16.7%). Risk factors analysis focused on this GA cohort in which SIP was most prevalent. Mat_IN administration within 2 days of delivery increased SIP risk (odds ratio: 3; 95% confidence interval: 1.25–7.94; p = 0.036). Neo_HC was not independently associated with SIP (p = 0.38). A higher proportion of SIP group had close temporal exposure of Mat_IN and Neo_HC compared with the non-SIP group, though not statistically significant (14 vs. 7%, p = 0.24).

Conclusion Peripartum Mat_IN was associated with increased risk for SIP in this small study sample. Larger studies are needed to further delineate SIP risk from the interaction of peripartum maternal medication with early postnatal therapies and disease pathophysiology.

Key Points
Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Well-Baby Nursery
Authors: Kocherlakota Prabhakar , Lin Lin , Gill Harsangeet , Joseph Janice , Trydal Leandra
Published: October 2021

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is associated with fewer deliveries and premature births; however, the impact of this pandemic on the well-baby nursery (WBN) is unknown.

Objective The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on infants admitted to the WBN by comparing pandemic and pre-pandemic cohorts.

Study Design We performed a retrospective study of infants admitted to a WBN during the pandemic period (March 18, 2020 to March 17, 2021) and compared them to those during the pre-pandemic period (March 18, 2019 to March 17, 2020). Maternal (age, parity, gestation, method of delivery, and COVID-19 status) and neonatal (sex, weight, Apgar score, feeding pattern, urine toxicology, and neonatal intensive care unit [NICU] admission) data were collected and compared between the two periods. The results were statistically analyzed, and significance was set at p <0.05.

Results There were 824 and 859 WBN admissions during the pandemic and pre-pandemic periods, respectively, a 4% decrease in WBN admissions during the pandemic period. During the pandemic period, the number of deliveries among nulliparous women increased (From 40.3% to 45.1% p = 0.01), and deliveries among multiparous women decreased (From 59.2% to 53.1% p = 0.01). The number of infants exposed to marijuana in utero increased (From 8.2% to 16.1% p = 0.035), and transfers from WBN to NICU decreased (From 9% to 6.3% p = 0.044) during the pandemic period.

Conclusion Compared with the pre-pandemic period, the number of WBN admissions, multiparous deliveries, and NICU admissions decreased, while the number of nulliparous deliveries and infants exposed to marijuana in-utero increased during the pandemic period.

Key Points