bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological importance of OCT transcription factors in reprogramming and development
Authors: Kim Kee-Pyo , Han Dong Wook , Kim Johnny , Schöler Hans R.
Published: June 2021

Ectopic expression of Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc can reprogram somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Attempts to identify genes or chemicals that can functionally replace each of these four reprogramming factors have revealed that exogenous Oct4 is not necessary for reprogramming under certain conditions or in the presence of alternative factors that can regulate endogenous Oct4 expression. For example, polycistronic expression of Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc can elicit reprogramming by activating endogenous Oct4 expression indirectly. Experiments in which the reprogramming competence of all other Oct family members tested and also in different species have led to the decisive conclusion that Oct proteins display different reprogramming competences and species-dependent reprogramming activity despite their profound sequence conservation. We discuss the roles of the structural components of Oct proteins in reprogramming and how donor cell epigenomes endow Oct proteins with different reprogramming competences.
Molecular mechanism of interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and host cells and interventional therapy
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Xiang Rong , Huo Shanshan , Zhou Yunjiao , Jiang Shibo , Wang Qiao , Yu Fei
Published: June 2021

The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has resulted in an unprecedented setback for global economy and health. SARS-CoV-2 has an exceptionally high level of transmissibility and extremely broad tissue tropism. However, the underlying molecular mechanism responsible for sustaining this degree of virulence remains largely unexplored. In this article, we review the current knowledge and crucial information about how SARS-CoV-2 attaches on the surface of host cells through a variety of receptors, such as ACE2, neuropilin-1, AXL, and antibody–FcγR complexes. We further explain how its spike (S) protein undergoes conformational transition from prefusion to postfusion with the help of proteases like furin, TMPRSS2, and cathepsins. We then review the ongoing experimental studies and clinical trials of antibodies, peptides, or small-molecule compounds with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, and discuss how these antiviral therapies targeting host–pathogen interaction could potentially suppress viral attachment, reduce the exposure of fusion peptide to curtail membrane fusion and block the formation of six-helix bundle (6-HB) fusion core. Finally, the specter of rapidly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants deserves a serious review of broad-spectrum drugs or vaccines for long-term prevention and control of COVID-19 in the future.
Urinary exosome microRNA signatures as a noninvasive prognostic biomarker for prostate cancer
Authors: Shin Sun , Park Yong Hyun , Jung Seung-Hyun , Jang Sun-Hee , Kim Mee Young , Lee Ji Youl , Chung Yeun–Jun
Published: June 2021

Predicting the risk of metastasis before starting prostate cancer (PCa) treatment can minimize the overtreatment of indolent cases and help choosing appropriate treatment. The levels of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) from body fluids can be used as noninvasive prognostic biomarkers. In this study, urinary exosomal miRNA expression profiles of 149 PCas were determined and the miRNAs associated with metastasis were identified: miR-21, miR-16, miR-142-3p, miR-451, and miR-636. When evaluating clinical factors together, miR-21, miR-451, miR-636, and preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level remained significant in the multivariate analysis. Based on them, we developed a “Prostate Cancer Metastasis Risk Scoring (PCa-MRS)” model. The PCa-MRS showed superior stratification power (AUC = 0.925) to preoperative PSA or clinical Gleason score. Patients with high scores showed significantly poorer biochemical recurrence-free survival than those with low scores (P = 6.53 × 10−10). Our results showed the potential of urinary exosomal miRNAs as noninvasive markers for predicting metastasis and prognosis in PCa patients.
Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis on C-reactive protein among Ghanaians suggests molecular links to the emerging risk of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Chilunga Felix P. , Henneman Peter , Venema Andrea , Meeks Karlijn A. C. , Requena-Méndez Ana , Beune Erik , Mockenhaupt Frank P. , Smeeth Liam , Bahendeka Silver , Danquah Ina , Klipstein-Grobusch Kerstin , Adeyemo Adebowale , Mannens Marcel M.A.M , Agyemang Charles
Published: June 2021

Molecular mechanisms at the intersection of inflammation and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among Africans are still unknown. We performed an epigenome-wide association study to identify loci associated with serum C-reactive protein (marker of inflammation) among Ghanaians and further assessed whether differentially methylated positions (DMPs) were linked to CVD in previous reports, or to estimated CVD risk in the same population. We used the Illumina Infinium® HumanMethylation450 BeadChip to obtain DNAm profiles of blood samples in 589 Ghanaians from the RODAM study (without acute infections, not taking anti-inflammatory medications, CRP levels < 40 mg/L). We then used linear models to identify DMPs associated with CRP concentrations. Post-hoc, we evaluated associations of identified DMPs with elevated CVD risk estimated via ASCVD risk score. We also performed subset analyses at CRP levels ≤10 mg/L and replication analyses on candidate probes. Finally, we assessed for biological relevance of our findings in public databases. We subsequently identified 14 novel DMPs associated with CRP. In post-hoc evaluations, we found that DMPs in PC, BTG4 and PADI1 showed trends of associations with estimated CVD risk, we identified a separate DMP in MORC2 that was associated with CRP levels ≤10 mg/L, and we successfully replicated 65 (24%) of previously reported DMPs. All DMPs with gene annotations (13) were biologically linked to inflammation or CVD traits. We have identified epigenetic loci that may play a role in the intersection between inflammation and CVD among Ghanaians. Further studies among other Africans are needed to confirm our findings.
Tribo-corrosion response of additively manufactured high-entropy alloy
Authors: Shittu Jibril , Sadeghilaridjani Maryam , Pole Mayur , Muskeri Saideep , Ren Jie , Liu Yanfang , Tahoun Ismael , Arora Harpreet , Chen Wen , Dahotre Narendra , Mukherjee Sundeep
Published: June 2021

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) with multiple principal elements represent a paradigm shift in structural alloy design and show excellent surface degradation resistance in corrosive environment. Here, the tribo-corrosion response of laser-engineered net-shaped CoCrFeMnNi HEA was evaluated in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution at room temperature. The additively manufactured (AM-ed) CoCrFeMnNi showed five times lower wear rate, regenerative passivation, and nobler corrosion potential during tribo-corrosion test compared to its arc-melted counterpart. A significant anisotropy was seen in the tribo-corrosion response with 45° to the build direction showing better performance compared to tests along the build direction and perpendicular to it. The open circuit potential curves were characterized by a sharp drop to more negative values as wear began, followed by continuous change for the active tribo-corrosion duration and finally a jump to nobler value at the end of the test indicating excellent surface re-passivation for the AM-ed alloy. The superior tribo-corrosion resistance of AM-ed CoCrFeMnNi was attributed to the refined microstructure and highly protective surface passivation layer promoted by the sub-grain cellular structure formed during additive manufacturing. These results highlight the potential of utilizing additive manufacturing of HEAs for use in extreme environments that require a combination of tribo-corrosion resistance, mechanical durability, extended service life, and net shaping with low dimensional tolerance.
Long-term effect of apomorphine infusion in advanced Parkinson’s disease: a real-life study
Authors: Meira Bruna , Degos Bertrand , Corsetti Elise , Doulazmi Mohamed , Berthelot Emeline , Virbel-Fleischman Clara , Dodet Pauline , Méneret Aurélie , Mariani Louise-Laure , Delorme Cécile , Cormier-Dequaire Florence , Bendetowicz David , Villain Nicolas , Tarrano Clément , Mantisi Lise , Letrillart Hélène , Louapre Céline , McGovern Eavan , Worbe Yulia , Grabli David , Vidailhet Marie , Hainque Elodie , Roze Emmanuel
Published: June 2021

Long-term effects of continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion (CSAI) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and predictors of CSAI discontinuation are poorly known. Data from consecutive advanced Parkinson’s disease patients treated in routine care were retrospectively collected over 24 months after CSAI initiation, with a focus on the 39-item Parkinson’s disease questionnaire (PDQ-39). We determined predictors of CSAI discontinuation and HRQoL improvement using multiple regression analysis. Of the 110 subjects evaluated over a 2-year period, 35% discontinued CSAI. Of those who continued treatment, HRQoL remained stable with a sustained reduction in motor fluctuations. The observed effect on dyskinesias was mild and transient. Of note, patients with preexisting impulse control disorders showed an overall good tolerability. PDQ-39 was the only baseline predictor of HRQoL improvement after 2 years of treatment. The presence of dyskinesias, poorer psychological status, shorter disease duration, male sex, and worse OFF state were predictors of discontinuation. Best candidates for CSAI are patients with: (i) poor baseline HRQoL and (ii) marked motor fluctuations.
Human induced pluripotent stem cell derived hepatocytes provide insights on parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis in the immature liver
Authors: Nghiem-Rao T. Hang , Pfeifer Courtney , Asuncion Michelle , Nord Joshua , Schill Daniel , Pulakanti Kirthi , Patel Shailendra B. , Cirillo Lisa A. , Rao Sridhar
Published: June 2021

Parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) significantly limits the safety of intravenous parenteral nutrition (PN). Critically ill infants are highly vulnerable to PNAC-related morbidity and mortality, however the impact of hepatic immaturity on PNAC is poorly understood. We examined developmental differences between fetal/infant and adult livers, and used human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocyte-like cells (iHLC) to gain insights into the contribution of development to altered sterol metabolism and PNAC. We used RNA-sequencing and computational techniques to compare gene expression patterns in human fetal/infant livers, adult liver, and iHLC. We identified distinct gene expression profiles between the human feta/infant livers compared to adult liver, and close resemblance of iHLC to human developing livers. Compared to adult, both developing livers and iHLC had significant downregulation of xenobiotic, bile acid, and fatty acid metabolism; and lower expression of the sterol metabolizing geneABCG8.When challenged with stigmasterol, a plant sterol found in intravenous soy lipids, lipid accumulation was significantly higher in iHLC compared to adult-derived HepG2 cells. Our findings provide insights into altered bile acid and lipid metabolizing processes in the immature human liver, and support the use of iHLC as a relevant model system of developing liver to study lipid metabolism and PNAC.
AMPK activates Parkin independent autophagy and improves post sepsis immune defense against secondary bacterial lung infections
Authors: Bone Nathaniel B. , Becker Eugene J. , Husain Maroof , Jiang Shaoning , Zmijewska Anna A. , Park Dae-Won , Chacko Balu , Darley-Usmar Victor , Grégoire Murielle , Tadie Jean-Marc , Thannickal Victor J. , Zmijewski Jaroslaw W.
Published: June 2021

Metabolic and bioenergetic plasticity of immune cells is essential for optimal responses to bacterial infections. AMPK and Parkin ubiquitin ligase are known to regulate mitochondrial quality control mitophagy that prevents unwanted inflammatory responses. However, it is not known if this evolutionarily conserved mechanism has been coopted by the host immune defense to eradicate bacterial pathogens and influence post-sepsis immunosuppression. Parkin, AMPK levels, and the effects of AMPK activators were investigated in human leukocytes from sepsis survivors as well as wild type and Park2−/− murine macrophages. In vivo, the impact of AMPK and Parkin was determined in mice subjected to polymicrobial intra-abdominal sepsis and secondary lung bacterial infections. Mice were treated with metformin during established immunosuppression. We showed that bacteria and mitochondria share mechanisms of autophagic killing/clearance triggered by sentinel events that involve depolarization of mitochondria and recruitment of Parkin in macrophages. Parkin-deficient mice/macrophages fail to form phagolysosomes and kill bacteria. This impairment of host defense is seen in the context of sepsis-induced immunosuppression with decreased levels of Parkin. AMPK activators, including metformin, stimulate Parkin-independent autophagy and bacterial killing in leukocytes from post-shock patients and in lungs of sepsis-immunosuppressed mice. Our results support a dual role of Parkin and AMPK in the clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria and killing of pathogenic bacteria, and explain the immunosuppressive phenotype associated Parkin and AMPK deficiency. AMPK activation appeared to be a crucial therapeutic target for the macrophage immunosuppressive phenotype and to reduce severity of secondary bacterial lung infections and respiratory failure.
Zircon record of an Archaean crustal fragment and supercontinent amalgamation in quaternary back-arc volcanic rocks
Authors: Zeng Zhi-gang , Chen Zu-xing , Zhang Yu-xiang
Published: June 2021

Magmatism has profoundly influenced the evolution of the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere in back-arc basins. However, the timing of the magmatism in the Okinawa Trough (OT) is not well constrained by the age spectra of zircons. Here, for the first time, we carry out an integrated study combining in situ analysis of zircon U–Th–Pb and Hf–O isotopes, and trace element compositions of zircons from the volcanic rocks from the southernmost part of the OT. We found that the young (< 100 ka) zircons in these volcanic rocks have old (108 Ma to 2.7 Ga) inherited cores, which were captured as the magma ascended through the rifting continental crust. In particular, the inherited Archean zircons strongly suggest that remnants of the old East Asian continental blocks underlie the embryonic crustal rifting zone. Moreover, the ages of most of the inherited zircons correspond to five supercontinent amalgamation events. Specifically, the Archaean inherited zircons, which have positive εHf(t) and low δ18O values, correspond to the formation of juvenile continental crust. In contrast, the negative εHf(t) and high δ18O values of the post-Archaean inherited zircons indicate that their parental magma contained recycled older crust due to the enhanced crust-mantle interactions during the evolution of the early continental crust. Therefore, the inherited zircons in the back-arc volcanic rocks not only reflect the evolution of the local magmatism, but they also contain a record of the Archaean crustal fragment and of several global continental amalgamation events.
A new family of copper-based MXenes
Authors: Ponce-Pérez R. , Gutierrez-Ojeda S. J. , Guerrero-Sánchez J. , Moreno-Armenta María G.
Published: June 2021

In this work, we demonstrate, through first-principles calculations, the existence of a new family of copper-based MXenes. These add up new structures to the previously reported universe and span the interest of such 2D materials for applications in heterogeneous catalysis, ion-based batteries, sensors, biomedical applications, and so on. First, we propose the MXene-like structures: Cu2N, Cu2C, and Cu2O. Phonon spectra calculations confirmed their dynamical stability by showing just positive frequencies all through the 2D Brillouin zone. The new MXenes family displays metallic characteristics, mainly induced by the Cu-3d orbitals. Bader charge analysis and charge density differences depict bonds with ionic character in which Cu is positively charged, and the non-metal atom gets an anionic character. Also, we investigate the functionalization of the proposed structures with Cl, F, O, and OH groups. Results show that the H3 site is the most favorable for functionalization. In all cases, the non-magnetic nature and metallic properties of the pristine MXenes remain. Our results lay the foundations for the experimental realization of a new MXenes family.
Acute effects of 2.856 GHz and 1.5 GHz microwaves on spatial memory abilities and CREB-related pathways
Authors: Tan Shengzhi , Wang Hui , Xu Xinping , Zhao Li , Zhang Jing , Dong Ji , Yao Binwei , Wang Haoyu , Hao Yanhui , Zhou Hongmei , Gao Yabing , Peng Ruiyun
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the acute effects of 2.856 GHz and 1.5 GHz microwaves on spatial memory and cAMP response element binding (CREB)-related pathways. A total of 120 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a control group (C); 2.856 GHz microwave exposure group (S group); 1.5 GHz microwave exposure group (L group); and 2.856 and 1.5 GHz cumulative exposure group (SL group). Decreases in spatial memory abilities, changes in EEG, structural injuries, and the downregulation of phosphorylated-Ak strain transforming (p-AKT), phosphorylated-calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (p-CaMKII), phosphorylated extracellular signal regulated kinase (p-ERK) and p-CREB was observed 6 h after microwave exposure. Significant differences in the expression of p-CaMKII were found between the S and L groups. The power amplitudes of the EEG waves (θ, δ), levels of structural injuries and the expression of p-AKT, p-CaMK II, p-CREB, and p-ERK1/2 were significantly different in the S and L groups compared to the SL group. Interaction effects between the 2.856 and 1.5 GHz microwaves were found in the EEG and p-CREB changes. Our findings indicated that 2.856 GHz and 1.5 GHz microwave exposure induced a decline in spatial memory, which might be related to p-AKT, p-CaMK II, p-CREB and p-ERK1/2.
Author Correction: Dynamic mitochondrial responses to a high-fat diet in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Cormier Robert P. J. , Champigny Camille M. , Simard Chloé J. , St-Coeur Patrick-Denis , Pichaud Nicolas
Published: June 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Feasibility study on stereotactic radiotherapy for total pulmonary vein isolation in a canine model
Authors: Chang Ji Hyun , Cha Myung-Jin , Seo Jeong-Wook , Kim Hak Jae , Park So-Yeon , Kim Byoung Hyuck , Lee Euijae , Kim Moo-kang , Yoon Hye-sun , Oh Seil
Published: June 2021

We tested the feasibility of pulmonary vein (PV) and left atrial (LA) posterior wall isolation using non-invasive stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) and investigated pathological changes in irradiated lesions in a canine model. Seven male Mongrel dogs received single-fraction 33 Gy SABR. We designed the en-bloc circular target of total PVs and LA posterior wall to avoid the esophagus. The circular box lesion included the LA roof and ridge, low posterior wall, and posterior interatrial septum. At 6 weeks or 4 months post-SABR, electrical isolation of the SABR lesion was confirmed using LA posterior wall pacing, and histopathological review was performed. Electrical isolation of all PVs and the LA posterior wall was achieved in three of five dogs in the 4-month group. There was one target failure and one sudden death at 15 weeks. Although two dogs in the 6-week group failed to achieve electrical lesion isolation, the irradiated atrial myocardium showed diffuse hemorrhage with inflammatory cell infiltration. In successfully isolated 4-month model dogs, we observed transmural fibrotic scarring with extensive fibrosis on irradiated atrial tissue. The findings suggest that this novel circular box-design radiotherapy technique using SABR could be applied to humans after further studies are conducted to confirm safety.
HSP-90/kinase complexes are stabilized by the large PPIase FKB-6
Authors: Sima Siyuan , Barkovits Katalin , Marcus Katrin , Schmauder Lukas , Hacker Stephan M. , Hellwig Nils , Morgner Nina , Richter Klaus
Published: June 2021

Protein kinases are important regulators in cellular signal transduction. As one major type of Hsp90 client, protein kinases rely on the ATP-dependent molecular chaperone Hsp90, which maintains their structure and supports their activation. Depending on client type, Hsp90 interacts with different cofactors. Here we report that besides the kinase-specific cofactor Cdc37 large PPIases of the Fkbp-type strongly bind to kinase•Hsp90•Cdc37 complexes. We evaluate the nucleotide regulation of these assemblies and identify prominent interaction sites in this quaternary complex. The synergistic interaction between the participating proteins and the conserved nature of the interaction suggests functions of the large PPIases Fkbp51/Fkbp52 and their nematode homolog FKB-6 as contributing factors to the kinase cycle of the Hsp90 machinery.
Adapted tolerance to virus infections in four geographically distinct Varroa destructor-resistant honeybee populations
Authors: Locke Barbara , Thaduri Srinivas , Stephan Jörg G. , Low Matthew , Blacquière Tjeerd , Dahle Bjørn , Le Conte Yves , Neumann Peter , de Miranda Joachim R.
Published: June 2021

The ectoparasitic mite,Varroa destructor, is unarguably the leading cause of honeybee (Apis mellifera) mortality worldwide through its role as a vector for lethal viruses, in particular, strains of theDeformed wing virus(DWV) andAcute bee paralysis virus(ABPV) complexes. Several honeybee populations across Europe have well-documented adaptations of mite-resistant traits but little is known about host adaptations towards the virus infections vectored by the mite. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the possible contribution of adapted virus tolerance and/or resistance to the enhanced survival of four well-documented mite-resistant honeybee populations from Norway, Sweden, The Netherlands and France, in relation to unselected mite-susceptible honeybees. Caged adult bees and laboratory reared larvae, from colonies of these four populations, were inoculated with DWV and ABPV in a series of feeding infection experiments, while control groups received virus-free food. Virus infections were monitored using RT-qPCR assays in individuals sampled over a time course. In both adults and larvae the DWV and ABPV infection dynamics were nearly identical in all groups, but all mite-resistant honeybee populations had significantly higher survival rates compared to the mite-susceptible honeybees. These results suggest that adapted virus tolerance is an important component of survival mechanisms.
Novel nanocomposites of Ni-Pc/polyaniline for the corrosion safety of the aluminum current collector in the Li-ion battery electrolyte
Authors: Deyab M. A. , Mele G. , Bloise E. , Mohsen Q.
Published: June 2021

In electrochemical energy storage systems, Li-ion batteries have drawn considerable interest. However, the corrosion of the aluminum current collector in the LiN(SO2CF3)2 electrolyte has a major effect on battery efficiency. To protect the current collector from the corrosive action of the LiN(SO2CF3)2 electrolyte, new nanocomposites based on Ni(II)tetrakis[4-(2,4-bis-(1,1-dimethyl-propyl)-phenoxy)]phthalocyanine (Ni-Pc) and polyaniline matrix (PANI) (i.e. PANI@Ni-Pc composites) are coated on the aluminum current. SEM, XRD, and EDS were used to characterize the PANI@Ni-Pc composite. This method represents a novel approach to the production of Li-ion batteries. Electrochemical tests show that the PANI@Ni-Pc composites can protect aluminum from corrosion in LiN(SO2CF3)2. The output of PANI@Ni-Pc composites is influenced by the Ni-Pc concentration. The composite PANI@Ni-Pc is a promising way forward to build high-stability Li-Ion batteries.
Cognitive load influences oculomotor behavior in natural scenes
Authors: Walter Kerri , Bex Peter
Published: June 2021

Cognitive neuroscience researchers have identified relationships between cognitive load and eye movement behavior that are consistent with oculomotor biomarkers for neurological disorders. We develop an adaptive visual search paradigm that manipulates task difficulty and examine the effect of cognitive load on oculomotor behavior in healthy young adults. Participants (N = 30) free-viewed a sequence of 100 natural scenes for 10 s each, while their eye movements were recorded. After each image, participants completed a 4 alternative forced choice task in which they selected a target object from one of the previously viewed scenes, among 3 distracters of the same object type but from alternate scenes. Following two correct responses, the target object was selected from an image increasingly farther back (N-back) in the image stream; following an incorrect response, N decreased by 1. N-back thus quantifies and individualizes cognitive load. The results show that response latencies increased as N-back increased, and pupil diameter increased with N-back, before decreasing at very high N-back. These findings are consistent with previous studies and confirm that this paradigm was successful in actively engaging working memory, and successfully adapts task difficulty to individual subject’s skill levels. We hypothesized that oculomotor behavior would covary with cognitive load. We found that as cognitive load increased, there was a significant decrease in the number of fixations and saccades. Furthermore, the total duration of saccades decreased with the number of events, while the total duration of fixations remained constant, suggesting that as cognitive load increased, subjects made fewer, longer fixations. These results suggest that cognitive load can be tracked with an adaptive visual search task, and that oculomotor strategies are affected as a result of greater cognitive demand in healthy adults.
Detecting functional connectivity disruptions in a translational pediatric traumatic brain injury porcine model using resting-state and task-based fMRI
Authors: Simchick Gregory , Scheulin Kelly M. , Sun Wenwu , Sneed Sydney E. , Fagan Madison M. , Cheek Savannah R. , West Franklin D. , Zhao Qun
Published: June 2021

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has significant potential to evaluate changes in brain network activity after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and enable early prognosis of potential functional (e.g., motor, cognitive, behavior) deficits. In this study, resting-state and task-based fMRI (rs- and tb-fMRI) were utilized to examine network changes in a pediatric porcine TBI model that has increased predictive potential in the development of novel therapies. rs- and tb-fMRI were performed one day post-TBI in piglets. Activation maps were generated using group independent component analysis (ICA) and sparse dictionary learning (sDL). Activation maps were compared to pig reference functional connectivity atlases and evaluated using Pearson spatial correlation coefficients and mean ratios. Nonparametric permutation analyses were used to determine significantly different activation areas between the TBI and healthy control groups. Significantly lower Pearson values and mean ratios were observed in the visual, executive control, and sensorimotor networks for TBI piglets compared to controls. Significant differences were also observed within several specific individual anatomical structures within each network. In conclusion, both rs- and tb-fMRI demonstrate the ability to detect functional connectivity disruptions in a translational TBI piglet model, and these disruptions can be traced to specific affected anatomical structures.
Spectral collapse in anisotropic two-photon Rabi model
Authors: Lo C. F.
Published: June 2021

In this communication, based upon a squeezed-state trial wave function, we have performed a simple variational study of the spectral collapse in the anisotropic two-photon Rabi model. Our analysis indicates that the light-matter interaction and the spin-flipping (together with the anisotropy) effectively constitute two competing impacts upon the radiation mode. Whilst the former tries to decrease the radiation mode frequency, the latter may counteract or reinforce it. The light-matter interaction appears to dominate the frequency modulation as its coupling strengths go beyond the critical values, leading to the emergence of the spectral collapse. However, at the critical couplings the dominance of the light-matter interaction is not complete, and incomplete spectral collapse appears. Accordingly, at the critical couplings the eigenenergy spectrum comprises both a set of discrete energy levels and a continuous energy spectrum. The discrete eigenenergy spectrum can be derived via a simple one-to-one mapping to the bound state problem of a particle of variable effective mass in a finite potential well, and the number of bound states available is determined by the energy difference between the two atomic levels. Each of these eigenenergies has a twofold degeneracy corresponding to the spin degree of freedom.
Development of a capture sequencing assay for enhanced detection and genotyping of tick-borne pathogens
Authors: Jain Komal , Tagliafierro Teresa , Marques Adriana , Sanchez-Vicente Santiago , Gokden Alper , Fallon Brian , Mishra Nischay , Briese Thomas , Kapoor Vishal , Sameroff Stephen , Guo Cheng , Marcos Luis A. , Hu Linden , Lipkin W. Ian , Tokarz Rafal
Published: June 2021

Inadequate sensitivity has been the primary limitation for implementing high-throughput sequencing for studies of tick-borne agents. Here we describe the development of TBDCapSeq, a sequencing assay that uses hybridization capture probes that cover the complete genomes of the eleven most common tick-borne agents found in the United States. The probes are used for solution-based capture and enrichment of pathogen nucleic acid followed by high-throughput sequencing. We evaluated the performance of TBDCapSeq to surveil samples that included human whole blood, mouse tissues, and field-collected ticks. For Borrelia burgdorferi and Babesia microti, the sensitivity of TBDCapSeq was comparable and occasionally exceeded the performance of agent-specific quantitative PCR and resulted in 25 to > 10,000-fold increase in pathogen reads when compared to standard unbiased sequencing. TBDCapSeq also enabled genome analyses directly within vertebrate and tick hosts. The implementation of TBDCapSeq could have major impact in studies of tick-borne pathogens by improving detection and facilitating genomic research that was previously unachievable with standard sequencing approaches.
Short term fluctuating temperature alleviates Daphnia stoichiometric constraints
Authors: Balseiro Esteban , Laspoumaderes Cecilia , Smufer Facundo , Wolinski Laura , Modenutti Beatriz
Published: June 2021

In this study, we analysed how short term temperature fluctuation interacts with nutrient limitation in the vertical migrating Daphnia commutata. We hypothesize that short term (daily) temperature fluctuation will alleviate nutrient limitation. We carried out experiments analysing growth rates, phosphorus and RNA content of D. commutate grown under four different temperature regimes and two P-limited conditions. Our experiments showed that individuals grown under fluctuating temperature grew more than at the mean temperature. We estimated the expected sizes for the 15 °C treatment based on the Q10 and for the fluctuating temperature treatment. These expected sizes for both treatments resulted well below the observed ones. The P and RNA content of individuals grown at 10 °C were significantly higher than those at 20 °C, and when individuals grown at 10 °C were translocated to 20 °C they exerted an increased growth rate. Our results suggest that, under a regime of diel vertical migration, the temperature alternation would allow migrating organisms to alleviate the effect of severe nutrient limitation maintaining population growth. Under a scenario of global warming, where epilimnetic temperatures will increase, lake temperature will interact with nutrient limitation for consumers, but, organisms may be able to face these changes if they can still regularly move from a cold hypolimnion to a warmer epilimnion.
Assessment of reliability and validity of the 5-scale grading system of the point-of-care immunoassay for tear matrix metalloproteinase-9
Authors: Kim Minjeong , Oh Ja Young , Bae Seon Ha , Lee Seung Hyeun , Lee Won Jun , Chun Yeoun Sook , Kim Kyoung Woo
Published: June 2021

We evaluated the reliability and validity of the 5-scale grading system to interpret the point-of-care immunoassay for tear matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9. Six observers graded red bands of photographs of the readout window in MMP-9 immunoassay kit (InflammaDry) two times with 2-week interval based on the 5-scale grading system (i.e. grade 0–4). Interobserver and intraobserver reliability were evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients. The interobserver agreements were analyzed according to the severity of tear MMP-9 expression. To validate the system, a concentration calibration curve was made using MMP-9 solutions with reference concentrations, then the distribution of MMP-9 concentrations was analyzed according to the 5-scale grading system. Both intraobserver and interobserver reliability was excellent. The readout grades were significantly correlated with the quantified colorimetric densities. The interobserver variance of readout grades had no correlation with the severity of the measured densities. The band density continued to increase up to a maximal concentration (i.e. 5000 ng/mL) according to the calibration curve. The difference of grades reflected the change of MMP-9 concentrations sensitively, especially between grade 2 and 4. Together, our data indicate that the subjective 5-scale grading system in the point-of-care MMP-9 immunoassay is an easy and reliable method with acceptable accuracy.
Aspects of tree shrew consolidated sleep structure resemble human sleep
Authors: Dimanico Marta M. , Klaassen Arndt-Lukas , Wang Jing , Kaeser Melanie , Harvey Michael , Rasch Björn , Rainer Gregor
Published: June 2021

Understanding human sleep requires appropriate animal models. Sleep has been extensively studied in rodents, although rodent sleep differs substantially from human sleep. Here we investigate sleep in tree shrews, small diurnal mammals phylogenetically close to primates, and compare it to sleep in rats and humans using electrophysiological recordings from frontal cortex of each species. Tree shrews exhibited consolidated sleep, with a sleep bout duration parameter, τ, uncharacteristically high for a small mammal, and differing substantially from the sleep of rodents that is often punctuated by wakefulness. Two NREM sleep stages were observed in tree shrews: NREM, characterized by high delta waves and spindles, and an intermediate stage (IS-NREM) occurring on NREM to REM transitions and consisting of intermediate delta waves with concomitant theta-alpha activity. While IS-NREM activity was reliable in tree shrews, we could also detect it in human EEG data, on a subset of transitions. Finally, coupling events between sleep spindles and slow waves clustered near the beginning of the sleep period in tree shrews, paralleling humans, whereas they were more evenly distributed in rats. Our results suggest considerable homology of sleep structure between humans and tree shrews despite the large difference in body mass between these species.
Sex, age, and parental harmonic convergence behavior affect the immune performance of Aedes aegypti offspring
Authors: Reitmayer Christine M. , Pathak Ashutosh K. , Harrington Laura C. , Brindley Melinda A. , Cator Lauren J. , Murdock Courtney C.
Published: June 2021

Harmonic convergence is a potential cue, female mosquitoes use to choose male mates. However, very little is known about the benefits this choice confers to offspring performance. UsingAedes aegypti(an important vector of human disease), we investigated whether offspring of converging parental pairs showed differences in immune competence compared to offspring derived from non-converging parental pairs. Here we show that harmonic convergence, along with several other interacting factors (sex, age, reproductive, and physiological status), significantly shaped offspring immune responses (melanization and response to a bacterial challenge). Harmonic convergence had a stronger effect on the immune response of male offspring than on female offspring. Further, female offspring from converging parental pairs disseminated dengue virus more quickly than offspring derived from non-converging parental pairs. Our results provide insight into a wide range of selective pressures shaping mosquito immune function and could have important implications for disease transmission and control.
Inhibitory neurons in the superior colliculus mediate selection of spatially-directed movements
Authors: Essig Jaclyn , Hunt Joshua B. , Felsen Gidon
Published: June 2021

Decision making is a cognitive process that mediates behaviors critical for survival. Choosing spatial targets is an experimentally-tractable form of decision making that depends on the midbrain superior colliculus (SC). While physiological and computational studies have uncovered the functional topographic organization of the SC, the role of specific SC cell types in spatial choice is unknown. Here, we leveraged behavior, optogenetics, neural recordings and modeling to directly examine the contribution of GABAergic SC neurons to the selection of opposing spatial targets. Although GABAergic SC neurons comprise a heterogeneous population with local and long-range projections, our results demonstrate that GABAergic SC neurons do not locally suppress premotor output, suggesting that functional long-range inhibition instead plays a dominant role in spatial choice. An attractor model requiring only intrinsic SC circuitry was sufficient to account for our experimental observations. Overall, our study elucidates the role of GABAergic SC neurons in spatial choice.
Topological gaps by twisting
Authors: Rosa Matheus I. N. , Ruzzene Massimo , Prodan Emil
Published: June 2021

Twisted bilayered systems such as bilayered graphene exhibit remarkable properties such as superconductivity at magic angles and topological insulating phases. For generic twist angles, the bilayers are truly quasiperiodic, a fact that is often overlooked and that has consequences which are largely unexplored. Herein, we uncover that twisted n-layers host intrinsic higher dimensional topological phases, and that those characterized by second Chern numbers can be found in twisted bi-layers. We employ phononic lattices with interactions modulated by a second twisted lattice and reveal Hofstadter-like spectral butterflies in terms of the twist angle, which acts as a pseudo magnetic field. The phason provided by the sliding of the layers lives on 2n-tori and can be used to access and manipulate the edge states. Our work demonstrates how multi-layered systems are virtual laboratories for studying the physics of higher dimensional quantum Hall effect, and can be employed to engineer topological pumps via simple twisting and sliding.
Critical behavior in interdependent spatial spreading processes with distinct characteristic time scales
Authors: Castioni Piergiorgio , Gallotti Riccardo , De Domenico Manlio
Published: June 2021

The spread of an infectious disease is well approximated by metapopulation networks connected by human mobility flow and upon which an epidemiological model is defined. In order to account for travel restrictions or cancellation we introduce a model with a parameter that explicitly indicates the ratio between the time scales of the intervening processes. We study the critical properties of the epidemic process and its dependence on such a parameter. We find that the critical threshold separating the absorbing state from the active state depends on the scale parameter and exhibits a critical behavior itself: a metacritical point – a critical value in the curve of critical points – reflected in the behavior of the attack rate measured for a wide range of empirical metapopulation systems. Our results have potential policy implications, since they establish a non-trivial critical behavior between temporal scales of reaction (epidemic spread) and diffusion (human mobility) processes.
Non-isothermal phase-field simulations of laser-written in-plane SiGe heterostructures for photonic applications
Authors: Aktas Ozan , Yamamoto Yuji , Kaynak Mehmet , Peacock Anna C.
Published: June 2021

Advanced solid-state devices, including lasers and modulators, require semiconductor heterostructures for nanoscale engineering of the electronic bandgap and refractive index. However, existing epitaxial growth methods are limited to fabrication of vertical heterostructures grown layer by layer. Here, we report the use of finite-element-method-based phase-field modelling with thermocapillary convection to investigate laser inscription of in-plane heterostructures within silicon-germanium films. The modelling is supported by experimental work using epitaxially-grown Si0.5Ge0.5 layers. The phase-field simulations reveal that various in-plane heterostructures with single or periodic interfaces can be fabricated by controlling phase segregation through modulation of the scan speed, power, and beam position. Optical simulations are used to demonstrate the potential for two devices: graded-index waveguides with Ge-rich (>70%) cores, and waveguide Bragg gratings with nanoscale periods (100–500 nm). Periodic heterostructure formation via sub-millisecond modulation of the laser parameters opens a route for post-growth fabrication of in-plane quantum wells and superlattices in semiconductor alloy films.
Biological sealing and integration of a fibrinogen-modified titanium alloy with soft and hard tissues in a rat model
Authors: Wang Xiuli , Lei Xing , Yu Yue , Miao Sheng , Tang Jingyu , Fu Ye , Ye Kai , Shen Yang , Shi Jiayue , Wu Hao , Zhu Yi , Yu Lin , Pei Guoxian , Bi Long , Ding Jiandong
Published: June 2021

A Ti–6Al–4V alloy was modified with fibrinogen as mediated by polydopamine, and the skin-implant interface was examined after transcutaneous implantation. The surface modification could inhibit epithelial downgrowth and promote bone regeneration.
Stokes and upconverted luminescence in Er3+/Yb3+-doped Y3Ga5O12 nano-garnets
Authors: Monteseguro Virginia , Venkatramu Vemula , Rodríguez-Mendoza Ulises R. , Lavín Victor
Published: June 2021

A new highly efficient non-resonant ETU channel enhancing the up conversion red emission (9 times larger).
Enhanced thermoelectric properties exhibited by unreduced freestanding graphene oxide/carbon nanotube membranes
Authors: Islam Md. Saidul , Ohmagari Hitomi , Rahman Mohammad Atiqur , Shudo Yuta , Fukuda Masahiro , Yagyu Junya , Sekine Yoshihiro , Lindoy Leonard F. , Hayami Shinya
Published: June 2021

The considerable thermoelectric power factor of 5.33 × 10−2 μW mK−2 observed for unreduced GO/CNT (1 : 2 ratio) implies the suitability of unreduced GO/CNT as a flexible thermoelectric material.
Piezo-photocatalytic effect mediating reactive oxygen species burst for cancer catalytic therapy
Authors: Kang Yong , Lei Lei , Zhu Chunfeng , Zhang Hanjie , Mei Lin , Ji Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2021

A heterojunction structure based on thermally treated natural sphalerite nanosheets (NSH700 NSs) with piezo-photocatalytic effect is fabricated and applied to efficiently induce intracellular ROS burst and apoptosis of cancer cells.
Influence of carbon dot synthetic parameters on photophysical and biological properties
Authors: Lesani Pooria , Lu Zufu , Singh Gurvinder , Mursi Maya , Mirkhalaf Mohammad , New Elizabeth J. , Zreiqat Hala
Published: June 2021

Optimization of the carbon dots synthetic parameters, including type of solvent, heating time, dopant quantity, and particle size distribution range, to gain a better understanding of their effect on carbon dots photophysical and biological behavior.
The sign reversal of anomalous Hall effect derived from the transformation of scattering effect in cluster-assembled Ni0.8Fe0.2 nanostructural films
Authors: Jiang Ning , Yang Bo , Bai Yulong , Jiang Yaoxiang , Zhao Shifeng
Published: June 2021

A sign reversal of AHE from positive to negative was obtained by decreasing the cluster size to a characteristic size or regulating temperatures in single-substance Ni0.8Fe0.2 films.
Metal–organic frameworks towards bio-medical applications
Authors: Ma Xin , Lepoitevin Mathilde , Serre Christian
Published: June 2021

This mini review summarises the progress in the field of MOFs and their use in biomedical applications, from their early discovery and conception, to more recent achievements including promising in vivo applications.
Metal-free oxidative cyclization of trifluoroacetimidohydrazides with methylhetarenes: a facile access to 3-hetaryl-5-trifluoromethyl-1,2,4-triazoles
Authors: Zhang Jiajun , Xu Tian-Hui , Chen Zhengkai , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: June 2021

A metal-free oxidative cyclization of trifluoroacetimidohydrazides with methylhetarenes for the efficient synthesis of 3-hetaryl-5-trifluoromethyl-1,2,4-triazoles has been developed.
Application of two morphologies of Mn2O3 for efficient catalytic ortho-methylation of 4-chlorophenol
Authors: Gui Wenying , Zhang Chunlei , Zhu Wanchun , Zhang Li , Liu Xiaofei , Zhang Hongqiang , Wang Zhenlu
Published: June 2021

Vapor phase ortho-methylation of 4-chlorophenol with methanol was studied over Mn2O3 catalyst with two kinds of morphologies.
A temperature-dependent switching of the exchange bias effect from negative to positive under a fixed intermediate cooling field
Authors: Tsopoe S. P. , Borgohain C. , Borah J. P.
Published: June 2021

An interfacial coupling origin of the exchange bias effect (EBE) is a novel phenomenon due to its technological and fundamental importance.
An enzyme free simultaneous detection of γ-amino-butyric acid and testosterone based on copper oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Hussain Mohammad Musarraf , Asiri Abdullah M. , Uddin Jamal , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: June 2021

An easy wet-chemical process was used to prepare copper oxide nanoparticles which were modified and used as sensor probes for γ-amino-butyric acid and testosterone.
Bandgap recovery of monolayer MoS2 using defect engineering and chemical doping
Authors: Aryeetey Frederick , Pourianejad Sajedeh , Ayanbajo Olubukola , Nowlin Kyle , Ignatova Tetyana , Aravamudhan Shyam
Published: June 2021

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide materials have created avenues for exciting physics with unique electronic and photonic applications.
A novel electronic nose for the detection and classification of pesticide residue on apples
Authors: Tang Yong , Xu Kunli , Zhao Bo , Zhang Meichao , Gong Chenhui , Wan Hailun , Wang Yuanhui , Yang Zepeng
Published: June 2021

The MOS electronic nose in combination with data-recognition algorithms can provide an effective tool for the detection of pesticide residues in agricultural products.
Isomerization of glucose to fructose catalyzed by metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Lara-Serrano Marta , Morales-delaRosa Silvia , Campos-Martin Jose M. , Abdelkader-Fernández Víctor K. , Cunha-Silva Luís , Balula Salete S.
Published: June 2021

High catalytic activity is found to be due to the combination of a chromium catalyst with large pores (MIL-101(Cr)) with aprotic solvents (γ-valerolactone−10% H2O).
Hybrid water vapor sorbent design with pollution shielding properties: extracting clean water from polluted bulk water sources
Authors: Li Renyuan , Wu Mengchun , Shi Yusuf , Aleid Sara , Wang Wenbin , Zhang Chenlin , Wang Peng
Published: June 2021

A Simple Water Extraction Apparatus with Pollutant Shielding (SWEAPS) can extract clean water from polluted water sources and ambient air.