bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterologous expression of NoxA confers aerotolerance in Clostridium sporogenes
Authors: Sadr Sara , Zargar Bahram , Perez Justo , Aucoin Marc G. , Ingalls Brian
Published: October 2023

Clostridium is a genus of gram‐positive obligate anaerobic bacteria. Some species of Clostridium, including Clostridium sporogenes, may be of use in bacteria‐mediated cancer therapy. Spores of Clostridium are inert in healthy normoxic tissue but germinate when in the hypoxic regions of solid tumors, causing tumor regression. However, such treatments fail to completely eradicate tumors partly because of higher oxygen levels at the tumor's outer rim. In this study, we demonstrate that a degree of aerotolerance can be introduced to C. sporogenes by transfer of the noxA gene from Clostridium aminovalericum. NoxA is a water‐forming NADH oxidase enzyme, and so has no detrimental effect on cell viability. In addition to its potential in cancer treatment, the noxA‐expressing strain described here could be used to alleviate challenges related to oxygen sensitivity of C. sporogenes in biomanufacturing.
Acyclic Boryl Complexes of Copper(I)
Authors: Charman Rex S. C. , Hobson Josie A. , Jackson Ross A. , Mahon Mary F. , Neale Samuel E. , Liptrot David J.
Published: October 2023

Reaction of (6‐Dipp)CuOtBu (6‐Dipp=C{NDippCH2}2CH2, Dipp=2,6‐iPr2C6H3) with B2(OMe)4 provided access to (6‐Dipp)CuB(OMe)2 via σ‐bond metathesis. (6‐Dipp)CuB(OMe)2 was characterised by NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography and shown to be a monomeric acyclic boryl of copper. (6‐Dipp)CuB(OMe)2 reacted with ethylene and diphenylacetylene to provide insertion compounds into the Cu‐B bond which were characterised by NMR spectroscopy in both cases and X‐ray crystallography in the latter. It was also competent in the rapid catalytic deoxygenation of CO2 in the presence of excess B2(OMe)4. Alongside π‐insertion, (6‐Dipp)CuB(OMe)2 reacted with LiNMe2 to provide a salt metathesis reaction at boron, giving (6‐Dipp)CuB(OMe)NMe2, a second monomeric acyclic boryl, which also cuproborated diphenylacetylene. Computational interrogation validated these acyclic boryl species to be electronically similar to (6‐Dipp)CuBpin.
Benzylic C(sp3)−H Bond Oxidation with Ketone Selectivity by a Cobalt(IV)‐Oxo Embedded in a β‐Barrel Protein
Authors: Wang Dong , Ingram Aaron A. , Okumura Akira , Spaniol Thomas P. , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Okuda Jun
Published: October 2023

Artificial metalloenzymes have emerged as biohybrid catalysts that allow to combine the reactivity of a metal catalyst with the flexibility of protein scaffolds. This work reports the artificial metalloenzymes based on the β‐barrel protein nitrobindin NB4, in which a cofactor [CoIIX(Me3TACD‐Mal)]+X− (X=Cl, Br; Me3TACD=N,N',N''‐trimethyl‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane, Mal=CH2CH2CH2NC4H2O2) was covalently anchored via a Michael addition reaction. These biohybrid catalysts showed higher efficiency than the free cobalt complexes for the oxidation of benzylic C(sp3)−H bonds in aqueous media. Using commercially available oxone (2KHSO5 ⋅ KHSO4 ⋅ K2SO4) as oxidant, a total turnover number of up to 220 and 97 % ketone selectivity were achieved for tetralin. As catalytically active intermediate, a mononuclear terminal cobalt(IV)‐oxo species [Co(IV)=O]2+ was generated by reacting the cobalt(II) cofactor with oxone in aqueous solution and characterized by ESI‐TOF MS.
Conjugated Olefin Enabled Rollover Cyclometallation of Distant C‐H Bonds: Regioselective Annulation of o‐Alkenyl Phenols with Alkynes
Authors: Nagireddy Attunuri , Naveen Kumar Muniganti , Babu Nanubolu Jagadeesh , Sridhar Reddy Maddi
Published: October 2023

Although challenging, the distant C−H functionalization with precision is quite rewarding and has long been intriguing. Tailoring an appropriate template accomplishes the job but the prerequisite sets the limitation. We herein unveil our discovery of annulation of alkynes on to two distant (from directing group) C−H bonds through rollover cyclometallation assisted by conjugated C=C bond. The annulation follows a concomitant cyclization rewarding a rare triple C−H functionalization. The annulation is totally regioselective with an array of unsymmetrical alkynes, taking the leverage of an extended conjugation or a tertiary hydroxyl co‐ordination. The mechanism is supported by control experiments, KIE & labelling studies and Mass spectrometry.
Soft Riemann‐Hilbert problems and planar orthogonal polynomials
Authors: Hedenmalm Haakan
Published: October 2023

Riemann‐Hilbert problems are jump problems for holomorphic functions along given interfaces. They arise in various contexts, for example, in the asymptotic study of certain nonlinear partial differential equations and in the asymptotic analysis of orthogonal polynomials. Matrix‐valued Riemann‐Hilbert problems were considered by Deift et al. in the 1990s with a noncommutative adaptation of the steepest descent method. For orthogonal polynomials on the line or on the circle with respect to exponentially varying weights, this led to a strong asymptotic expansion in the given parameters. For orthogonal polynomials with respect to exponentially varying weights in the plane, the corresponding asymptotics was obtained by Hedenmalm and Wennman (2017), based on the technically involved construction of an invariant foliation for the orthogonality. Planar orthogonal polynomials are characterized in terms of a certain matrix ‐problem (Its, Takhtajan), which we refer to as a soft Riemann‐Hilbert problem. Here, we use this perspective to offer a simplified approach based not on foliations but instead on the ad hoc insertion of an algebraic ansatz for the Cauchy potential in the soft Riemann‐Hilbert problem. This allows the problem to decompose into a hierarchy of scalar Riemann‐Hilbert problems along the interface (the free boundary for a related obstacle problem). Inspired by microlocal analysis, the method allows for control of the solution in such a way that for real‐analytic weights, the asymptotics holds in the L2 sense with error in a fixed neighborhood of the closed exterior of the interface, for some constant , where . Here, m is the degree of the polynomial, and in terms of pointwise asymptotics, the expansion dominates the error term in the exterior domain and across the interface (by a distance proportional to ). In particular, the zeros of the orthogonal polynomial are located in the interior of the spectral droplet, away from the droplet boundary by a distance at least proportional to .
Mechanochemistry for Healthcare: Revealing the Nitroso Derivatives Genesis in the Solid State
Authors: Basoccu Francesco , Cuccu Federico , Porcheddu Andrea
Published: October 2023

Nitroso derivatives with unique characteristics have been extensively studied in various fields, including biology and clinical research. Although there has been substantial investigation of “nitrosable” components in many drugs and commonly consumed nutrients, there is still a need for a higher awareness about their formation and characterization. This study demonstrates how these derivatives can be produced through a mechanochemical procedure under solid‐state conditions. The results include synthesizing previously unknown compounds with potential biological and pharmaceutical applications, such as a nitrosamine derived from a Diclofenac‐like structure.
Developmental changes in endogenous testosterone have sexually‐dimorphic effects on spontaneous cortical dynamics
Authors: Picci Giorgia , Ott Lauren R. , Penhale Samantha H. , Taylor Brittany K. , Johnson Hallie J. , Willett Madelyn P. , Okelberry Hannah J. , Wang Yu‐Ping , Calhoun Vince D. , Stephen Julia M. , Wilson Tony W.
Published: October 2023

The transition from childhood to adolescence is associated with an influx of sex hormones, which not only facilitates physical and behavioral changes, but also dramatic changes in neural circuitry. While previous work has shown that pubertal hormones modulate structural and functional brain development, few of these studies have focused on the impact that such hormones have on spontaneous cortical activity, and whether these effects are modulated by sex during this critical developmental window. Herein, we examined the effect of endogenous testosterone on spontaneous cortical activity in 71 typically‐developing youth (ages 10–17 years; 32 male). Participants completed a resting‐state magnetoencephalographic (MEG) recording, structural MRI, and provided a saliva sample for hormone analysis. MEG data were source‐reconstructed and the power within five canonical frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma) was computed. The resulting power spectral density maps were analyzed via vertex‐wise ANCOVAs to identify spatially specific effects of testosterone and sex by testosterone interactions, while covarying out age. We found robust sex differences in the modulatory effects of testosterone on spontaneous delta, beta, and gamma activity. These interactions were largely confined to frontal cortices and exhibited a stark switch in the directionality of the correlation from the low (delta) to high frequencies (beta/gamma). For example, in the delta band, greater testosterone related to lower relative power in prefrontal cortices in boys, while the reverse pattern was found for girls. These data suggest testosterone levels are uniquely related to the development of spontaneous cortical dynamics during adolescence, and such levels are associated with different developmental patterns in males and females within regions implicated in executive functioning.
Barriers to preschool aged children's participation in swimming lessons in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Ananthapavan Vidthyany , Peden Amy E. , Angell Blake , Macniven Rona
Published: October 2023

Issue Addressed

To understand barriers to uptake of subsidised swimming lessons by children aged 3–6 years old (‘preschool aged children’), including from priority populations, in New South Wales (NSW).

Methods

A thematic analysis of 4191 qualitative responses from parents/carers of preschool aged children describing barriers that resulted in their child's non‐participation in subsidised swimming lessons in the past 12 months was conducted. Data, including parent/carer sociodemographic variables, were collected through registrations for the NSW Government's First Lap voucher program.

Results

Seven overarching barriers to participation were identified: (1) child's disability or health needs; (2) swimming lesson affordability; (3) family or personal circumstances; (4) lack of or poor availability of swimming lessons; (5) parent/carer availability, including to fulfil participation requirements; (6) COVID‐19 and (7) deprioritisation of formal swimming lessons due to parent/carer perceptions relating to its importance. These may limit the uptake of swimming lessons in preschool aged children, particularly those who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, living with a disability, from low socioeconomic families and living in regional and remote areas.

Conclusion

Structural barriers must be addressed to increase uptake of swimming lessons in preschool aged children, particularly in priority populations, to reduce drowning risk.

So What?

Evidence‐based policy initiatives, with robust evaluation, should seek to address the availability and flexibility of swimming lessons, including for priority populations; complexities associated with supervision requirements; poor awareness of parents/carers of the importance of swimming for preschool aged children and the lack of continuity of swimming for children in out of home care.
Treatment of PTSD and SUD for the incarcerated population with EMDR: A pilot study
Authors: Bashir Huma A , Wilson Josephine F. , Ford Jo Ann , Hira Nainika
Published: October 2023

Adverse childhood experiences predict recidivism. In incarcerated individuals, post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rates are higher. A study with 122 inmates with PTSD and substance use disorder explored eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)’s effectiveness. EMDR worked across gender and race, reducing PCL‐C scores posttreatment and at 2 and 4 weeks. IER‐R scores lowered from weeks 1 to 9. EMDR boosted affect, reasoning, and attitudes posttreatment.
Effect of preharvest melatonin applications at dusk on quality and bioactive compounds content of early sweet cherries
Authors: Cortés‐Montaña Daniel , Bernalte‐García María Josefa , Palomino‐Vasco Mónica , Serradilla Manuel Joaquín , Velardo‐Micharet Belén
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Early sweet cherries have a high economic impact on cherry growers but have poorer quality characteristics and shorter shelf‐life than late cherries. Melatonin has been proposed as a biostimulant that regulates plant and fruit growth and increases fruit quality and shelf‐life but, in general in fruit and vegetables, there is controversy about its effects. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the impact of exogenous preharvest melatonin applications at dusk on the quality and bioactive compounds of two early sweet cherry cultivars.

RESULTS

The M3 and M5 (3 × 10−4 and 5 × 10−4 mol L−1 melatonin, respectively) treatments effectively enhanced the endogenous melatonin and hydroxycinnamic acid concentration, enhancing the functional properties of the fruit. Additionally, the M5 treatment enhanced skin colour and consumer acceptance of ‘Samba’ cherries, while the M3 treatment improved cherry size in ‘Sandon Rose’.

CONCLUSION

Preharvest melatonin applications at dusk could be included in the scheduled preharvest treatments for early cherry cultivars in order to improve the quality and to stimulate the functionality of the fruit. However, further studies are needed to adjust the concentration depending on the cultivar and the objective pursued. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fractures in glaciers—Crack tips and their stress fields by observation and modeling
Authors: Humbert Angelika , Gross Dietmar , Sondershaus Rabea , Müller Ralf , Steeb Holger , Braun Matthias , Brauchle Jörg , Stebner Karsten , Rückamp Martin
Published: October 2023

High‐resolution optical camera systems are opening new opportunities to study fractures in ice. Here, we present data obtained from the Modular Aerial Camera System camera system operated onboard of Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI) polar aircraft in northeast Greenland in 2022. In addition, we are using optical and radar satellite imagery. The study area is the 79°N Glacier (Nioghalvfjerdsbræ, 79NG), an outlet glacier of the Northeast Greenland Ice Stream. We found that crack tips are exhibiting additional isolated cracks ahead of the main crack. Subsequent crack propagation is starting from those isolated cracks, leading to an advance of the crack, with bridges between crack faces. The bridges provide information of the episodic crack propagation. Fractures have typically a length scale of kilometers and the distance of crack faces is in the order of meters to tenths of meters. Fracture modes will be inferred from stress fields computed by an inverse modeling approach using the Ice Sheet and Sea Level System Model. To this end, a surface velocity field derived from satellite remote sensing is used for the optimal control method that constrains model parameters, for example, basal friction coefficient or rheology.
Small Joint Organoids 3D Bioprinting: Construction Strategy and Application
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Li Guangfeng , Wang Jian , Zhou Fengjin , Ren Xiaoxiang , Su Jiacan
Published: October 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease that causes pain and disability in adults, affecting ≈300 million people worldwide. It is caused by damage to cartilage, including cellular inflammation and destruction of the extracellular matrix (ECM), leading to limited self‐repairing ability due to the lack of blood vessels and nerves in the cartilage tissue. Organoid technology has emerged as a promising approach for cartilage repair, but constructing joint organoids with their complex structures and special mechanisms is still challenging. To overcome these boundaries, 3D bioprinting technology allows for the precise design of physiologically relevant joint organoids, including shape, structure, mechanical properties, cellular arrangement, and biological cues to mimic natural joint tissue. In this review, the authors will introduce the biological structure of joint tissues, summarize key procedures in 3D bioprinting for cartilage repair, and propose strategies for constructing joint organoids using 3D bioprinting. The authors also discuss the challenges of using joint organoids’ approaches and perspectives on their future applications, opening opportunities to model joint tissues and response to joint disease treatment.
Unlocking the Potential of Amorphous Prussian Blue with Highly Active Mn Sites at Room Temperature for Impressive Oxygen Evolution Reaction and Super Capacitor Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Wei Lihai , Meng Dexing , Mao Sui , Wu Xiaodong , Huang Huabo , Jiang Qianqian , Tang Jianguo
Published: October 2023

The key to increasing the rate of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) lies in accelerated four‐electron dynamics, while the key to facilitating the development of supercapacitors lies in the design of electrode materials. This paper synthesized manganese‐iron Prussian blue (MnFe‐PBA@IF) at room temperature, and hexagonal concave structures w ere prepared using a fast‐reducing matrix. Interestingly, MnFe‐PBA@IF has an amorphous structure favorable to exposing more active surfaces. According to Gibbs free energy calculations on MnFe‐PBA, charge depletion of manganese atoms can greatly enhance the adsorption of electron‐rich oxygen‐containing groups on the surface. Furthermore, the overpotential in 1 m KOH is 280 mV. Also, it can be used as a supercapacitor with a stable operating voltage range of −0.9–0 V and a specific capacity of 1260 F g−1. This work provides new insights into the synthesis of OER catalysts for Prussian blue ferromanganese at room temperature. Non‐gold‐bonded adsorption, highly active metal centers and active surfaces are the underlying reasons for the superior performance of supercapacitors. Therefore, Prussian blue with good energy storage performance and high active surface can be used as multifunctional energy storage and conversion electrodes.
Surface‐Ligand Tuned Reversible Transformations in Aqueous Environments Between CdSe Magic‐Size Clusters and Their Precursor Compounds
Authors: Chen Qingyuan , Zhang Yu , Chen Shuo , Liu Yuehui , Zhang Chunchun , Zhang Meng , Yu Kui
Published: October 2023

That magic‐size clusters (MSCs) have their counterpart precursor compounds (PCs) has not been generally accepted by expertise circles. Here, experimental evidence to support this new concept is presented. With aqueous‐phase CdSe MSCs as a model system, it is shown that when the MSCs are dispersed in water containing a certain amount of L‐cysteine (Cys), the MSCs disappear slowly. Upon the addition of CdCl2, the MSCs recover. It is proposed that after dispersing, the MSCs transform to their quasi‐isomeric, non‐absorbing PCs upon Cys addition. In the presence of CdCl2, the PCs transform back to the MSCs due to Cys elimination. The surface ligand Cys of the MSCs plays a significant role in the reversible transformations. The present study provides compelling evidence that absorbing MSCs have their non‐absorbing PCs. The study findings suggest that the transformation between two MSCs that display absorption spectral shifts in a stepwise pattern is assisted by their PCs.
Additive‐Free Spiro‐OMeTAD@P3HT Composite/NiOx Hole‐Transporting Bilayer for Efficient (19%), Stable, and Fully Solution‐Processed Carbon‐Electrode‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Deng Yingying , Dong Chen , Song Yuhao , Yao Miaosen , Wang Wanlong , Tong Junjie , Yue Gentian , Zhang Weifeng , Tan Furui
Published: October 2023

Hole‐transporting layer (HTL) plays a critical role in determining the device performance of carbon‐electrode‐based perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs). However, the use of best‐performing organic HTL (such as 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis (N, N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenyl‐amine)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene [Spiro‐OMeTAD] or poly(3‐hexylthiophene) [P3HT]) for efficient and stable C‐PSCs remains challenging due to the hygroscopic additives, unfavorable band alignments, and corrosive carbon pastes. Herein, the additive‐free Spiro‐OMeTAD/P3HT composite (denoted as Spiro@P3HT) is employed as HTL to construct the fully ambient solution‐processed C‐PSCs, and NiOx is used as top HTL/buffer layer that protects P3HT from being corroded by carbon pastes. As compared to pristine P3HT, the incorporation of Spiro‐OMeTAD not only smooths the HTL morphology, but also shifts down the highest occupied molecular orbital level, thus forming a more energy‐favorable cascade that maximizes hole extraction at the perovskite/HTL interface and minimizes recombination loss. Consequently, the target C‐PSCs with optimal Spiro@P3HT composite HTL achieve a champion efficiency of 19%. More importantly, benefiting from the self‐sealing protection of hydrophobic Spiro@P3HT HTL and carbon electrode, the target C‐PSCs exhibit no noticeable performance degradation after storage in ambient air for 1440 h and continuous operation under illumination for 350 h. In this work, a facile way is provided to develop robust and efficient additive‐free HTL toward fully solution‐processing high‐performance C‐PSCs.
Understanding the Methylammonium Chloride‐Assisted Crystallization for Improved Performance of Lead‐Free Tin Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cuzzupè Daniele T. , Öz Seren Dilara , Ling JinKiong , Illing Elias , Seewald Tobias , Jose Rajan , Olthof Selina , Fakharuddin Azhar , Schmidt-Mende Lukas
Published: October 2023

In the quest for perovskite materials with reduced toxicity, Sn perovskites are emerging. However, they suffer from material instability and rapid crystallization, leading to high defect densities in the films. In this work, the methylammonium chloride (MACl)‐assisted crystallization as a route to improve stability and optoelectronic quality of quasi 2D/3D PEA0.08FA0.92SnI3 perovskite is demonstrated. For an optimal additive amount (10 mol%), a 37% increase in power conversion efficiency is found. Notably, MACl enhances the films' stability, evidenced by temporal PL tracking. Understanding the effect of MACl addition in this system is interesting for the pursuit of efficient and stable tin‐based devices. The investigations show that MACl addition causes a shift in the optical bandgap and improves morphology, indicating effects in the bulk crystal structure. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the presence of Cl on the surface, but no indication of MA+ is found. Intriguingly, UV photoelectron spectroscopy shows pronounced changes in the density of states. For the first time, it is shown that MACl promotes the formation of a two‐dimensional layer via the surface accumulation of PEA+. The MACl additive lowers the absorber's ionization energy, possibly facilitating hole extraction. Overall, this work highlights a facile route to control the crystallization of Sn perovskites.
Towards a collaborative approach to the systematics of Ipomoea: A response to the “Rebuttal to (2786) Proposal to change the conserved type of Ipomoea, nom. cons. (Convolvulaceae)”
Authors: Eserman Lauren A. , Buril Maria Teresa , Chatrou Lars W. , Clay Keith , Desquilbet Thibaut E. , Ferreira Priscila P.A. , Grande Allende José R. , Huerta‐Ramos Guillermo , Kojima Roberta K. , Miller Richard E. , More Sushant , Moreira André L.C. , Pastore Mayara , Petrongari Fernanda S. , Pisuttimarn Ponprom , Pornpongrungrueng Pimwadee , Rifkin Joanna , Shimpale Vinod B. , Sosef Marc S.M. , Stinchcombe John R. , Simões Ana Rita G.
Published: October 2023

A proposal to change the conserved type of Ipomoea was published in December 2020, and recommended by the Nomenclature Committee in 2023. This was done in the light of the possible negative consequences for a name change in the crop sweetpotato, which risk our proposal would significantly minimize. Recently, Muñoz‐Rodríguez & al. have published a rebuttal to this proposal, which we respond to here. The objections raised by these authors focus as much on the expertise and credibility of our group of authors as on the merits of our arguments. In this “rebuttal to the rebuttal”, we respond to the scientific questions raised, highlight demonstrated misinterpretation of the specialised literature relevant to this discussion and counter the assertion that a reclassification of Ipomoeeae is impossible given existing evidence. While the currently recognised genera of Ipomoeeae are not all monophyletic, the proposal to change the conserved type of Ipomoea is a necessary step that will allow exploring an improved classification for the tribe Ipomoeeae, either in the form of a better recircumscription of the genera or an efficient infrageneric classification for Ipomoea. Previously published literature has not advocated for the integration of all genera into a single genus, as Muñoz‐Rodríguez and co‐authors have incorrectly suggested, and instead have recommended a reanalysis of the high morphological diversity of the group in the context of expanded phylogenetic studies, with the possible maintenance of some of the existing genera. We believe that, in a concerted collaborative approach and with the contribution of experts from different regions and scientific backgrounds, an improved classification of Ipomoeeae that integrates the principles of monophyly and diagnosability may soon be achieved, and until when some uncertainty may need to be accommodated, with the added reassurance that, regardless of the direction of future systematic rearrangements, the stability of the scientific name of sweetpotato would be preserved.
Non‐invasive in‐utero quantification of vascular reactivity in human placenta
Authors: Rajagopalan V. , Truong V. , Wang S. , Lopez J. , Rosas V. , Borzage M. , Votava‐Smith J. K. , Ponrartana S. , Panigrahy A. , Detterich J. , Wood J.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Placental vascular reactivity (PlVR) indicates the ability of the placental vasculature to match blood supply to fetal demand. Many pregnancy disorders alter the characteristics of PlVR, resulting in suboptimal oxygen delivery, although current understanding is limited by the lack of non‐invasive, repeatable methods to measure PlVR in utero. Our objective was to quantify PlVR by measuring the placental response to transient changes in maternal carbon dioxide (CO2) using blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent (BOLD) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We hypothesized that PlVR will increase with gestational age to meet the changing demands of a growing fetus, and that PlVR will be driven by a maternal response to changes in CO2 concentration.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 35 women with a healthy singleton pregnancy, of whom 31 were included in the analysis. The median gestational age was 32.6 (range, 22.6–38.4) weeks. Pregnant women were instructed to follow audiovisual breathing cues during a MRI scan. Maternal end‐tidal CO2 (EtCO2) was measured concurrently with resting placental BOLD MRI for a total of 7–8 min. Preprocessing of magnetic resonance images consisted of manual delineation of placental anatomy and motion correction. In each placental voxel, vascular reactivity was computed using a coherence‐weighted general linear model between MRI signal and EtCO2 stimulus. Global PlVR was computed as the mean of voxel‐wise PlVR values across the placenta.

Results

PlVR, quantified by the placental response to induced, transient changes in maternal CO2, was consistently measured in utero using BOLD MRI. PlVR increased non‐linearly with advancing gestational age (P < 0.001) and was higher on the fetal side of the placenta. PlVR was associated positively with fetal brain volume after accounting for gestational age. PlVR did not show any significant associations with maternal characteristics.

Conclusions

We present, for the first time, a non‐invasive paradigm to quantify PlVR in ongoing human pregnancies without the use of exogenous gases or contrast agents. Our findings suggest that PlVR is driven by a fetal response to changes in maternal CO2. Ease of translation to the clinical setting makes PlVR a promising biomarker for the identification and management of high‐risk pregnancies. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Analysis and Quality Control of WHO- and UNEP-Coordinated Human Milk Studies 2000–2019: Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers, Hexabromocyclododecanes, Chlorinated Paraffins and Polychlorinated Naphthalenes
Authors: Schächtele Alexander , Hardebusch Björn , Krätschmer Kerstin , Tschiggfrei Karin , Zwickel Theresa , Malisch Rainer
Published: October 2023

Four different analytical methods were used for the determination of (1) polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), (2) hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDD), (3) chlorinated paraffins (CP) and (4) polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCN) in human milk samples of the WHO/UNEP-coordinated exposure studies. As a laboratory accredited according to EN ISO/IEC 17025, a comprehensive quality control program was applied to assure the reliability of results. This included procedural blanks, the use of numerous quality control samples as in-house reference materials and the participation in proficiency tests (PTs). Trueness was estimated from the PT samples using the assigned values.

The mean absolute deviation of the sum parameters ∑PBDE6 and ∑PBDE7 from the assigned values of 53 PT samples analysed between 2006 and 2021 was 12% and 14%, respectively.

For α-HBCDD as the most abundant diastereomer and the sum of α-, β- and γ-HBCDD, deviations of the reported value from the assigned value of the proficiency tests (31 samples, analysed between 2007 and 2021) were in most cases below 40% over a large concentration range, e.g., for α-HBCDD, between 0.0084 and 19 ng/g fw. For concentrations above 0.5 ng/g lipid, the deviation was in the range of approximately 0–30%.

For short-chain and medium-chain CP (SCCP and MCCP) all z-scores achieved in interlaboratory comparisons during 2017–2020 were within ±2 z and therefore satisfactory (13 PT samples were analysed for ΣCP, ΣSCCP and ΣMCCP using the GC-ECNI-Orbitrap-HRMS method, eight results achieved for ΣCP using the GC-EI-MS/MS method).

Due to the lack of available proficiency tests for PCN at the time of measuring the human milk samples of the 2016–2019 period, an external validation for control of the trueness was performed through an interlaboratory comparison with an independent laboratory. The deviation of the ΣPCN13 in five test samples between the external laboratory and CVUA Freiburg was in the range from 3 to 20%. At a later stage (in 2021), the laboratory participated successfully in the first interlaboratory comparison study on PCN congeners in cod liver oil. The z-scores for seven congeners and two sum parameters were within ±2 z and therefore satisfactory. Also, the results for other of the altogether 26 PCN congeners were in accordance with the median values reported by all participants.

As a result, the determination of PBDE, HBCDD, CP and PCN in human milk samples of the WHO/UNEP-coordinated exposure studies followed the strict rules of the accreditation system and the general criteria for the operation of testing laboratories as laid down in EN ISO/IEC 17025.
Design for manufacturing of a spur gears profile modification based on the static transmission error for improving the dynamic behavior
Authors: Abruzzo Michele , Beghini Marco , Romoli Luca , Santus Ciro
Published: October 2023

This study presents a novel iterative algorithm for obtaining an improved profile modification for spur gears based on minimizing the peak-to-peak static transmission error. Two improved profile modifications, obtained with different initial constraints applied to the tooth profile, were calculated and characterized. The static behavior of the gears was analyzed using a finite element model, by which the modifications were compared considering the maximum contact pressure and peak-to-peak static transmission error. The dynamic behavior of the gears was analyzed using a lumped parameter model. The dynamic overload and the dynamic transmission error were evaluated under several working regimes. The grinding wheel profiles used to realize the proposed profile modifications and the total volume of material removed were calculated using a CAD model. The results showed that the proposed modifications lead to a significant improvement in the static and dynamic behavior of the transmission by reducing both the maximum dynamic overload and meshing noise. The profiles of the grinding wheel were found to be accurately represented by polynomial functions, thus a feasible manufacturing process can be obtained. The total volume of material removed was lower than that produced by commonly adopted profile modifications, thus reducing material waste and increasing the productivity of the manufacturing process compared to standard profile modifications.
The first extensive study of an Imperial Roman Garden in the city of Rome: the Horti Lamiani
Authors: Masi Alessia , Vignola Cristiano , Lazzara Alessandro , Moricca Claudia , Serlorenzi Mirella , Ferrandes Antonio F.
Published: October 2023

This paper presents the first systematic results of integrated plant macrofossil and pollen analyses from the Horti Lamiani (1st-3rd century ce), an aristocratic residence with a luxury garden which was established on the Esquilino (Esquiline Hill) in Rome during the time of the first Emperor, Caesar Augustus (27 bce-14 ce) and later became one of the most famous Imperial gardens around the ancient city. Different types of plant remains such as charcoal, seeds and fruits and pollen were recovered from pits and pots in the garden and reflect the presence of plants there. There seem to have been ornamental shrubs which were probably grown as decorative modelled hedges and/or isolated bushes, as well as cultivated trees. Several ornamental flowering plants grew in pots. Although this archaeobotanical assemblage could represent some patches of wild vegetation still growing in the study area at the time of the Imperial garden, it is likely that most of the identified plants were intentionally planted and organised to create a glimpse of the past wild landscape of Rome. They have special characteristics, such as bearing coloured flowers or fruits and offering shade, that made them suitable for embellishing a magnificent garden. Moreover this reflects the Roman desire to control nature, testified by the expansion of luxury gardens during the Imperial period and the spread of decorative horticultural techniques, like the miniaturisation of trees and shaping of trees and shrubs by topiary.
Die Erfurt-Formation: Ein Beispiel zur Aquifergenese eines Kluftgrundwasserleiters
Authors: Rausch Randolf , Simon Theo , Kiffer Christian
Published: October 2023

Bei der Beschreibung von Grundwasserleitern wird davon ausgegangen, dass diese in der Zeit statische Systeme darstellen, d. h. die Grundwasserleiter in Hinblick auf ihre Durchlässigkeit und Speichervermögen sowie auf ihren Lösungsinhalt zeitlich unveränderlich sind. Betrachtet man jedoch die landschaftsgeschichtliche Entwicklung eines Grundwasserleiters über geologische Zeiträume, so erkennt man, dass Grundwasserleiter dynamische Systeme darstellen, die zeitlichen Änderungen unterliegen. Dies wird am Beispiel der Erfurt-Formation in Nord-Württemberg gezeigt. Es lassen sich drei räumliche Bereiche identifizieren, die nebeneinanderliegen und unterschiedlichen Stadien der Aquifergenese entsprechen. Ausgehend von einem Geringleiter entwickelt sich ein gut durchlässiger und ergiebiger Grundwasserleiter, der mit Abnahme der Überdeckung und Verwitterung wieder zu einem Geringleiter wird. Das Beispiel zur Erfurt-Formation zeigt, dass hydrogeologisch verschiedene Bereiche, die heute räumlich nebeneinanderliegen, in einer Schichtstufenlandschaft aufeinanderfolgenden zeitlichen Stadien der Aquifergenese entsprechen. Dieses Modell zur Aquifergenese kann auch auf andere Grundwasserleiter übertragen werden und sollte bei der Charakterisierung eines Grundwasserleiters berücksichtigt werden.
Two-year Follow-up of Habit Reversal Training and Decoupling in a Sample with Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors
Authors: Moritz Steffen , Hoyer Luca , Schmotz Stella
Published: October 2023

Background

Self-help habit reversal training and decoupling are effective in improving body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). However, most studies to date on self-help techniques have assessed short-term effects only. The present study aimed to elucidate whether treatment effects would be sustained over a longer period of time.

Methods

We conducted a 2-year follow-up study of a cohort of 391 participants with mixed BFRBs who were initially randomized to four conditions (wait list control, habit reversal training, decoupling, decoupling in sensu). At post assessment, participants were allowed to use other treatment techniques, enabling us to explore treatment effects in those who continued to use the initial method only versus those who used additional techniques. The Generic Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior Scale (GBS-36) served as the primary outcome.

Results

Improvements achieved at post assessment were maintained at follow-up for all experimental conditions, with decoupling showing significantly greater treatment gains at follow-up relative to the wait list control group (last observation carried forward: p = .004, complete cases: p = .015). Depression at follow-up slightly improved compared to baseline and post assessment similarly across all conditions, arguing against “symptom displacement” to other psychopathological syndromes. Retention rates were similarly low across the four conditions (48.5–54.6%), making bias unlikely (but not firmly excluding it). Participants who adhered to the initial protocol until follow-up showed a pattern of improvement similar to those using additional techniques.

Discussion

Our study speaks for the long-term effectiveness of behavioral self-help techniques to reduce BFRBs, particularly decoupling. Of note, participants were allowed to use other self-help manuals after completing the post assessment; thus, randomization was removed. However, a minority of the participants chose this option.
Rvi4 and Rvi15 are the same apple scab resistance genes
Authors: Peil Andreas , Howard Nicholas P , Bühlmann-Schütz Simone , Hiller Ines , Schouten Henk , Flachowsky Henryk , Patocchi Andrea
Published: October 2023

The apple (Malus x domestica) scab (Venturia inaequalis) resistance genes Rvi4 and Rvi15 were mapped to a similar region on the top of linkage group 2 and both resistance genes elicit the same type of resistance reaction, i.e., a hypersensitive response; hence, it is suspected that the two genes may be the same. As the two resistance genes Rvi4 and Rvi15 are currently used in apple breeding, it is important to clarify whether the two resistance genes are the same or not. Several approaches were used to make this determination. First, the pedigree of the genotype GMAL 2473, the source of Rvi15, was reconstructed. GMAL 2473 was found to be an F1 of ‘Russian seedling’, the genotype, which is known to also be the source of Rvi4. Next, it was further demonstrated that ‘Regia’, a cultivar known to carry Rvi4 (and Rvi2), carries the same gene (Vr2-C), which was demonstrated to be the gene inducing Rvi15 resistance. Finally, it was shown that transgenic lines carrying Vr2-C are compatible with race 4 apple scab isolates. Taken all together, these results definitively demonstrate that Rvi4 and Rvi15 are the same resistance gene. For future studies, we suggest referring to this resistance with the first name that was assigned to this gene, namely Rvi4.
GRg1 inhibits the TLR4/NF-kB signaling pathway by upregulating miR-216a-5p to reduce growth factors and inflammatory cytokines in DR
Authors: Xue Liping , Hu Min , Zhu Qin , Li Yadi , Zhou Guanglong , Zhang Xiaofan , Zhou Yuan , Zhang Jieying , Ding Peng
Published: October 2023

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common diabetic neurodegenerative disease that affects vision in severe cases. Current therapeutic drugs are ineffective for some patients with severe side effects, and ginsenoside-Rg1 (GRg1) has been shown to protect against DR and may serve as a new potential drug for DR. This study aimed to confirm the protective effect of GRg1 against DR and its molecular mechanism.

Methods

Human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (hRMECs) and rats were used to construct DR models in vitro and in vivo. Cell proliferation was detected by BrdU assays, the cell cycle was detected by flow cytometry, and TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β levels were detected by ELISA. qRT‒PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of related genes and proteins, and angiogenesis assays were used to assess angiogenesis. RIP and RNA pull down assays were used to determine the relationship between miR-216a-5p and TLR4; retinal structure and changes were observed by HE staining and retinal digestive spread assays.

Results

GRg1 effectively inhibited HG-induced hRMEC proliferation, cell cycle progression and angiogenesis and reduced the levels of intracellular inflammatory cytokines and growth factors. HG downregulated the expression of miR-216a-5p and upregulated the expression of TLR4/NF-kB signaling pathway-related proteins. Importantly, GRg1 inhibited TLR4/NF-kB signaling pathway activation by upregulating miR-216a-5p, thereby inhibiting HG-induced cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, and the production of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors. In addition, animal experiments confirmed the results of the cell experiments.

Conclusions

GRg1 inhibits TLR4/NF-kB signaling by upregulating miR-216a-5p to reduce growth factors and inflammatory cytokines in DR, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for DR.
Characterizing Antarctic fish assemblages using eDNA obtained from marine sponge bycatch specimens
Authors: Jeunen Gert-Jan , Lamare Miles , Devine Jennifer , Mariani Stefano , Mills Sadie , Treece Jackson , Ferreira Sara , Gemmell Neil J.
Published: October 2023

International conservation goals have been set to mitigate Southern Ocean ecosystem deterioration, with multiple monitoring programs evaluating progress towards those goals. The scale of continuous monitoring through visual observations, however, is challenged by the remoteness of the area and logistical constraints. Given the ecological and economic importance of the Southern Ocean, it is imperative that additional biological monitoring approaches are explored. Recently, marine sponges, which are frequently caught and discarded in Southern Ocean fisheries, have been shown to naturally accumulate environmental DNA (eDNA). Here, we compare fish eDNA signals from marine sponge bycatch specimens to fish catch records for nine locations on the continental shelf (523.5–709 m) and 17 from the continental slope (887.5–1611.5 m) within the Ross Sea, Antarctica. We recorded a total of 20 fishes, with 12 fishes reported as catch, 18 observed by eDNA, and ten detected by both methods. While sampling location was the largest contributor to the variation observed in the dataset, eDNA obtained significantly higher species richness and displayed a significantly different species composition compared to fish catch records. Overall, eDNA read count correlated more strongly with fish abundance over biomass. Species composition correlated on a regional scale between methods, however eDNA signal strength was a low predictor of catch numbers at the species level. Our results highlight the potential of sponge eDNA monitoring in the Southern Ocean by detecting a larger fraction of the fish community compared to catch recordings, thereby increasing our knowledge of this understudied ecosystem and, ultimately, aiding conservation efforts.
Magnetic field map of the Wilhelm Archipelago shelf zone, West Antarctica
Authors: Bakhmutov Volodymyr , Yegorova Tamara , Bakarzhiyeva Mariya , Mytrokhyn Olexandr , Shpyra Viktor , Orlyuk Mykhailo , Maksymchuk Valentyn , Tarasov Viktor , Romenets Andrii , Nakalov Yevheniy , Brillinh Yevhenii , Romanyuk Oleh , Otruba Yurii , Litvinov Dmytro
Published: October 2023

The Antarctic Digital Magnetic Anomaly Project is an international research effort to construct a magnetic map of the continent based on ground, satellite, marine, and aeromagnetic surveys. This paper reports the magnetic mapping of the shelf zone in the SE part of the Wilhelm Archipelago, West Antarctica, based on magnetic surveys conducted with Zodiac boats. A spectacular feature of this area is the strong magnetic anomaly of the Antarctic Peninsula (AP) batholith, which was the product of subduction-related Mesozoic–Cenozoic arc magmatism on the former margin of Western Gondwana. We constructed and analyzed a detailed magnetic map of magnetic field anomalies using field observations of rock exposures on the islands and magnetic properties of rocks from laboratory data. The oldest volcanic rocks of Jurassic to Lower Cretaceous age relate to N-NE trending bands of negative magnetic field. The largest feature in the study area is an Upper Cretaceous/Paleogene granodiorite complex that produces a positive magnetic anomaly. Many smaller anomalies are also present over gabbroid bodies of Cretaceous age. Two-dimensional magnetic modeling shows that heterogeneities in the upper crust may have magnetic susceptibilities in the range of 0.005–0.13 SI. Magnetic field anomalies also delineate an orthogonal system of tectonic faults, including the main NE fault along the Penola Strait (sub-parallel to the AP coastline) and four intersecting faults. These fault systems may be associated with different stages of continental margin evolution along the Antarctic Peninsula.
Ulinastatin ameliorates podocyte ferroptosis via regulating miR-144-3p/SLC7A11 axis in acute kidney injury
Authors: Yang Xiaosong , Guo Na
Published: October 2023

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death characterized by intracellular iron accumulation and subsequent lipid peroxidation, which has been identified in various pathological processes, such as acute kidney injury (AKI). Ulinastatin (UTI), known as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, has been reported to prevent kidney injury. Here, we investigated the protective effects of UTI on LPS-induced podocyte ferroptosis in vivo and in vitro. Conditionally immortalized mouse podocyte was exposed to LPS in the presence or absence of UTI in vitro for 48 h. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and intracellular Fe2+ were detected to value the effect of UTI treatment on the podocyte cell ferroptosis. We also evaluated the influence of UTI on kidney injury in vivo. LPS-induced mice were treated with vehicle or UTI at 50 U/g/d for 6 wk. We identified the important function of UTI in repressing ferroptosis and ameliorating podocyte injury. The treatment of UTI reduced accumulation of Fe2+ and lipid ROS in podocyte. The cell proliferation was induced by UTI compared with the LPS-treated group in vitro. UTI attenuated the podocyte cytoskeletal as well. Regarding the mechanism, we found that UTI upregulated solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) expression by reducing miR-144-3p in the cells. The overexpression of miR-144-3p blocked the protective role of UTI in podocyte ferroptosis. MiR-144-3p/SLC7A11 axis was involved in UTI-mediated podocyte cell proliferation in vitro. Furthermore, the treatment of UTI repressed podocyte injury and proteinuria in vivo, and the level of miR-144-3p was decreased while SLC7A11 expression was increased in comparison with the model mice. UTI prevents LPS-induced podocyte ferroptosis and subsequent renal dysfunction through miR-144-3p/SLC7A11 axis. These findings might provide a potential novel therapeutic option for AKI and other renal diseases affecting podocyte.