bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supershear Rupture, Daughter Cracks, and the Definition of Rupture Velocity
Authors: Hu Feng , Oglesby David D. , Wu Baoning , Chen Xiaofei
Published: May 2021

Rupture velocity is a fundamental feature of earthquake behavior. How rupture velocity is defined can therefore affect our understanding of earthquake physics. Based on dynamic rupture simulations, we compare the tangent and average rupture velocities calculated via one‐ and two‐dimensional gradients. Two strike‐slip scenarios with free‐surface‐induced supershear ruptures are presented within a homogeneous and a depth‐dependent stress regime, respectively. Although both scenarios produce a daughter crack that propagate over the seismogenic depth, in the depth‐dependent case the 1D and 2D rupture velocities capture different features: A 1D horizontal gradient measurement implies a supershear rupture, while a 2D gradient measurement reveals sub‐Rayleigh rupture propagation everywhere except very close to the free surface. A large area on the fault with the 1D horizontal tangent rupture velocity does not necessarily produce an observable Mach front, which arises the importance of rupture velocity definitions in supershear analysis.
Whistler on a Shelf
Authors: Streltsov Anatoly V.
Published: May 2021

This study presents results from a numerical study of the guiding of VLF whistler‐mode waves along the ambient magnetic field by the shelf‐like density structures observed by the NASA Van Allen Probes satellites in the equatorial plasmasphere. The shelf‐duct consists of a homogeneous central part “sandwiched” between two density gradients pointing in the same direction. To the best of our knowledge, this type of whistler ducting has never been identified in observations before. Our investigation is based on simulations of the electron‐MHD model, and our goal is to explain the mechanism of providing wave trapping and to reproduce the structure of the observed waves. The main result from this study is that the shelf‐like, field‐aligned density irregularities can indeed guide whistler‐mode waves along the ambient magnetic field with little attenuation, and the parameters of the guided waves are defined by the parameters of the duct. The simulations reproduce the structure of the observed waves reasonably well.
The evolution and future of influenza pandemic preparedness
Authors: Harrington Walter N. , Kackos Christina M. , Webby Richard J.
Published: May 2021

The influenza virus is a global threat to human health causing unpredictable yet recurring pandemics, the last four emerging over the course of a hundred years. As our knowledge of influenza virus evolution, distribution, and transmission has increased, paths to pandemic preparedness have become apparent. In the 1950s, the World Health Organization (WHO) established a global influenza surveillance network that is now composed of institutions in 122 member states. This and other surveillance networks monitor circulating influenza strains in humans and animal reservoirs and are primed to detect influenza strains with pandemic potential. Both the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the WHO have also developed pandemic risk assessment tools that evaluate specific aspects of emerging influenza strains to develop a systematic process of determining research and funding priorities according to the risk of emergence and potential impact. Here, we review the history of influenza pandemic preparedness and the current state of preparedness, and we propose additional measures for improvement. We also comment on the intersection between the influenza pandemic preparedness network and the current SARS-CoV-2 crisis. We must continually evaluate and revise our risk assessment and pandemic preparedness plans and incorporate new information gathered from research and global crises.
Respiratory morbidity in preterm infants predicted by natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) and endothelin-1 (CT-proET-1)
Authors: Gerull Roland , Neumann Roland P. , Atkinson Andrew , Bernasconi Luca , Schulzke Sven M. , Wellmann Sven
Published: May 2021

Background

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a major complication in preterm infants <32 weeks. We aimed to assess whether plasma levels of mid-regional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) and C-terminal pro-endothelin-1 (CT-proET-1) predict respiratory morbidity.

Methods

This was a prospective, two-center, observational cohort study. MR-proANP and CT-proET-1 were measured at day 7 (±2) of life. Associations with duration of supplemental oxygen and the composite outcome of moderate or severe BPD or death (BPD/death) were investigated.

Results

Two hundred and twenty-nine infants <32 weeks were included (median gestational age [GA] 29.6 weeks [interquartile range 29.0–30.7], median birth weight 1150 g [IQR 840–1410]). MR-proANP and CT-proET-1 were associated with the duration of supplemental oxygen in univariable analysis (both p < 0.001) but not after adjusting for co-factors. Infants with BPD/death showed higher plasma levels of MR-proANP (623.50 pmol/L [IQR 458.50–881.38] vs. 308.35 pmol/L [IQR 216.72–538.10]; p < 0.001) and CT-proET-1 (255.40 pmol/L [IQR 202.60–311.15] vs. 198.30 pmol/L [IQR 154.70–297.95]; p = 0.015) compared to infants without BPD/death. Levels of both biomarkers were significantly associated with BPD/death in univariable models but not after adjusting for co-factors.

Conclusions

MR-proANP and CT-proET-1 are associated with the duration of supplemental oxygen and the composite outcome BPD/death, but their prognostic value does not complement that of clinical risk factors.

Impact

Plasma levels of MR-proANP and CT-proET-1, measured on day 7 of life (±2 days) are associated in univariable analyses with duration of supplemental oxygen and the combined outcome of BPD or death in VLGA infants.

Associations between both biomarkers and respiratory morbidity do not persist in multivariable models, in particular when gestational age is included.

MR-proANP and CT-proET-1 have limited additional value to predict respiratory morbidity in VLGA infants compared to clinical parameters.
International transfers of personal data for health research following Schrems II: a problem in need of a solution
Authors: Hallinan Dara , Bernier Alexander , Cambon-Thomsen Anne , Crawley Francis P. , Dimitrova Diana , Medeiros Claudia Bauzer , Nilsonne Gustav , Parker Simon , Pickering Brian , Rennes Stéphanie
Published: May 2021

On 16 July 2020, the Court of Justice of the European Union issued their decision in the Schrems II case concerning Facebook’s transfers of personal data from the EU to the US. The decision may have significant effects on the legitimate transfer of personal data for health research purposes from the EU. This article aims: (i) to outline the consequences of the Schrems II decision for the sharing of personal data for health research between the EU and third countries, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic; and, (ii) to consider certain options available to address the consequences of the decision and to facilitate international data exchange for health research moving forward.
Interplay of two transcription factors for recruitment of the chromatin remodeling complex modulates fungal nitrosative stress response
Authors: Jian Yunqing , Liu Zunyong , Wang Haixia , Chen Yun , Yin Yanni , Zhao Youfu , Ma Zhonghua
Published: May 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) is a diffusible signaling molecule that modulates animal and plant immune responses. In addition, reactive nitrogen species derived from NO can display antimicrobial activities by reacting with microbial cellular components, leading to nitrosative stress (NS) in pathogens. Here, we identify FgAreB as a regulator of the NS response in Fusarium graminearum, a fungal pathogen of cereal crops. FgAreB serves as a pioneer transcription factor for recruitment of the chromatin-remodeling complex SWI/SNF at the promoters of genes involved in the NS response, thus promoting their transcription. FgAreB plays important roles in fungal infection and growth. Furthermore, we show that a transcription repressor (FgIxr1) competes with the SWI/SNF complex for FgAreB binding, and negatively regulates the NS response. NS, in turn, promotes the degradation of FgIxr1, thus enhancing the recruitment of the SWI/SNF complex by FgAreB.
Detection of selection signatures in farmed coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) using dense genome-wide information
Authors: López M. E. , Cádiz M. I. , Rondeau E. B. , Koop B. F. , Yáñez J. M.
Published: May 2021

Animal domestication and artificial selection give rise to gradual changes at the genomic level in populations. Subsequent footprints of selection, known as selection signatures or selective sweeps, have been traced in the genomes of many animal livestock species by exploiting variation in linkage disequilibrium patterns and/or reduction of genetic diversity. Domestication of most aquatic species is recent in comparison with land animals, and salmonids are one of the most important fish species in aquaculture. Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), cultivated primarily in Chile, has been subjected to breeding programs to improve growth, disease resistance traits, and flesh color. This study aimed to identify selection signatures that may be involved in adaptation to culture conditions and traits of productive interest. To do so, individuals of two domestic populations cultured in Chile were genotyped with 200 thousand SNPs, and analyses were conducted using iHS, XP-EHH and CLR. Several signatures of selection on different chromosomal regions were detected across both populations. Some of the identified regions under selection contained genes such anapc2, alad, chp2 and myn, which have been previously associated with body weight in Atlantic salmon, or sec24d and robo1, which have been associated with resistance to Piscirickettsia salmonis in coho salmon. Findings in our study can contribute to an integrated genome-wide map of selection signatures, to help identify the genetic mechanisms of phenotypic diversity in coho salmon.
Clinical characteristics of vulnerable populations hospitalized and diagnosed with COVID-19 in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Yacobitti A. , Otero L. , Doldan Arrubarrena V. , Arano J. , Lage S. , Silberman M. , Zubieta M. , Erbetta I. , Danei P. , Baeck G. , Vallejos V. , Cavalli F. , Calderón N. , Di Gregorio M. , Hernandez V. , Bruno D. , Rodera B. , Macherett I. , Parisi M. , Gallastegui M. , Paz A. , Bernardi R. , Azcárate S. , Hraste A. , Caridi I. , Boechi L. , Salgado P. , Kochen S.
Published: May 2021

There is not in Argentina publications regarding the presentation of patients with COVID-19 requiring hospitalized and emergency care in vulnerable populations (lower incomes and less education tend at greater risk for poor health status and healthcare access), and it has few reports in developing countries. The objective is to determine whether in the care of vulnerable patients, to succeed against COVID-19, multiple public health tools and interventions will be needed to minimize morbidity and mortality. The study is a prospective cohort investigation of patients with lab-confirmed COVID-19, who required to any of the Health Centers response from April 8, 2020, to August 18, 2020. In Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area (AMBA), April 8, 2020 the virus was identified in patients hospitalized in the "Southeast Network" (SN), AMBA. SN covering an area of 661 square kilometers, with 1.8 million inhabitants residing in urban, and rural areas. A total of 14 health centers with different levels of care complexity provide care to patients in the region. The information of each patient with COVID-19 evaluated by SN, was incorporated in an Epidemiological Dashboard. The investigation was designed and reported with consideration of observational studies in epidemiology. We describe the hospitals presentation and care of persons who required SN response and were ultimately diagnosed with COVID-19. From April 8, 2020, to August 18, 2020, were included 1495 patients with lab-confirmed COVID-19 in SN. A total of 58% patients were men, and the mean age (SD) was 48.9 (15.59) years. Eighty one percent patients with pre-existing diseases, most frequent hypertension and diabetes, but hypertension, chronic lung disease, and cardiovascular disease presented higher risk. A total of 13% were hospitalized in Intensive Therapy Unit. The mortality of the cohort was 9.77%. Mortality was higher for patients aged 65 or more (OR 5.09), and for those had some pre-existing disease (OR 2.61). Our observations are consistent with reports demonstrating older persons, and those with comorbidities have the highest risk of mortality related to COVID-19. However, unlike other reports from developed or some developing countries, the mortality in our study is lower. This finding may be related to age of our cohort is younger than other published. Also, the health system was able to respond to the demand.
Integrated pulse scope for tunable generation and intrinsic characterization of structured femtosecond laser
Authors: Huo Tiancheng , Qi Li , Chen Jason J. , Miao Yusi , Chen Zhongping
Published: May 2021

Numerous techniques have been demonstrated for effective generation of orbital angular momentum-carrying radiation, but intracavity generation of continuously tunable pulses in the femtosecond regime remains challenging. Even if such a creation was realized, the generated pulses—like all pulses in reality—are complex and transitory objects that can only be comprehensively characterized via multidimensional spaces. An integrated lasing system that generates pulses while simultaneously quantifies them can achieve adaptive pulse tailoring. Here, we report a femtosecond pulse scope that unifies vector vortex mode-locked lasing and vectorial quantification. With intracavity-controlled Pancharatnam-Berry phase modulation, continuous and ergodic generation of spirally polarized states along a broadband higher-order Poincaré sphere was realized. By intrinsically coupling a two-dimensional polarization-sensitive time-scanning interferometer to the laser, multidimensional spatiotemporal features of the pulse were further visualized. The proposed methodology paves the way for design optimization of ultrafast optics by integrating complex femtosecond pulse generation and structural customization, facilitating its applications in optical physics research and laser-based manufacturing.
Color-dependent changes in humans during a verbal fluency task under colored light exposure assessed by SPA-fNIRS
Authors: Zohdi Hamoon , Egli Rahel , Guthruf Daniel , Scholkmann Felix , Wolf Ursula
Published: May 2021

Light evokes robust visual and nonvisual physiological and psychological effects in humans, such as emotional and behavioral responses, as well as changes in cognitive brain activity and performance. The aim of this study was to investigate how colored light exposure (CLE) and a verbal fluency task (VFT) interact and affect cerebral hemodynamics, oxygenation, and systemic physiology as determined by systemic physiology augmented functional near-infrared spectroscopy (SPA-fNIRS). 32 healthy adults (17 female, 15 male, age: 25.5 ± 4.3 years) were exposed to blue and red light for 9 min while performing a VFT. Before and after the CLE, subjects were in darkness. We found that this long-term CLE-VFT paradigm elicited distinct changes in the prefrontal cortex and in most systemic physiological parameters. The subjects’ performance depended significantly on the type of VFT and the sex of the subject. Compared to red light, blue evoked stronger responses in cerebral hemodynamics and oxygenation in the visual cortex. Color-dependent changes were evident in the recovery phase of several systemic physiological parameters. This study showed that the CLE has effects that endure at least 15 min after cessation of the CLE. This underlines the importance of considering the persistent influence of colored light on brain function, cognition, and systemic physiology in everyday life.
Lives versus Livelihoods? Perceived economic risk has a stronger association with support for COVID-19 preventive measures than perceived health risk
Authors: Nisa Claudia F. , Bélanger Jocelyn J. , Faller Daiane G. , Buttrick Nicholas R. , Mierau Jochen O. , Austin Maura M. K. , Schumpe Birga M. , Sasin Edyta M. , Agostini Maximilian , Gützkow Ben , Kreienkamp Jannis , Abakoumkin Georgios , Abdul Khaiyom Jamilah Hanum , Ahmedi Vjollca , Akkas Handan , Almenara Carlos A. , Atta Mohsin , Bagci Sabahat Cigdem , Basel Sima , Kida Edona Berisha , Bernardo Allan B. I. , Chobthamkit Phatthanakit , Choi Hoon-Seok , Cristea Mioara , Csaba Sára , Damnjanović Kaja , Danyliuk Ivan , Dash Arobindu , Di Santo Daniela , Douglas Karen M. , Enea Violeta , Fitzsimons Gavan , Gheorghiu Alexandra , Gómez Ángel , Grzymala-Moszczynska Joanna , Hamaidia Ali , Han Qing , Helmy Mai , Hudiyana Joevarian , Jeronimus Bertus F. , Jiang Ding-Yu , Jovanović Veljko , Kamenov Željka , Kende Anna , Keng Shian-Ling , Kieu Tra Thi Thanh , Koc Yasin , Kovyazina Kamila , Kozytska Inna , Krause Joshua , Kruglanski Arie W. , Kurapov Anton , Kutlaca Maja , Lantos Nóra Anna , Lemay Edward P. , Lesmana Cokorda Bagus Jaya , Louis Winnifred R. , Lueders Adrian , Malik Najma Iqbal , Martinez Anton , McCabe Kira O. , Mehulić Jasmina , Milla Mirra Noor , Mohammed Idris , Molinario Erica , Moyano Manuel , Muhammad Hayat , Mula Silvana , Muluk Hamdi , Myroniuk Solomiia , Najafi Reza , Nyúl Boglárka , O’Keefe Paul A. , Osuna Jose Javier Olivas , Osin Evgeny N. , Park Joonha , Pica Gennaro , Pierro Antonio , Rees Jonas , Reitsema Anne Margit , Resta Elena , Rullo Marika , Ryan Michelle K. , Samekin Adil , Santtila Pekka , Selim Heyla A. , Stanton Michael Vicente , Sultana Samiah , Sutton Robbie M. , Tseliou Eleftheria , Utsugi Akira , van Breen Jolien Anne , Van Lissa Caspar J. , Van Veen Kees , vanDellen Michelle R. , Vázquez Alexandra , Wollast Robin , Yeung Victoria Wai-lan , Zand Somayeh , Žeželj Iris Lav , Zheng Bang , Zick Andreas , Zúñiga Claudia , Leander N. Pontus
Published: May 2021

This paper examines whether compliance with COVID-19 mitigation measures is motivated by wanting to save lives or save the economy (or both), and which implications this carries to fight the pandemic. National representative samples were collected from 24 countries (N = 25,435). The main predictors were (1) perceived risk to contract coronavirus, (2) perceived risk to suffer economic losses due to coronavirus, and (3) their interaction effect. Individual and country-level variables were added as covariates in multilevel regression models. We examined compliance with various preventive health behaviors and support for strict containment policies. Results show that perceived economic risk consistently predicted mitigation behavior and policy support—and its effects were positive. Perceived health risk had mixed effects. Only two significant interactions between health and economic risk were identified—both positive.
Author Correction: Fractional Young double-slit numerical experiment with Gaussian wavepackets
Authors: Ghalandari Mahboubeh , Solaimani M.
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Interplay between IL6 and CRIM1 in thiopurine intolerance due to hematological toxicity in leukemic patients with wild-type NUDT15 and TPMT
Authors: Kim Hyery , You Seungwon , Park Yoomi , Choi Jung Yoon , Ma Youngeun , Hong Kyung Tak , Koh Kyung-Nam , Yun Sunmin , Lee Kye Hwa , Shin Hee Young , Lee Suehyun , Yoo Keon Hee , Im Ho Joon , Kang Hyoung Jin , Kim Ju Han
Published: May 2021

NUDT15 and TPMT variants are strong genetic determinants of thiopurine-induced hematological toxicity. Despite the impact of homozygous CRIM1 on thiopurine toxicity, several patients with wild-type NUDT15, TPMT, and CRIM1 experience thiopurine toxicity, therapeutic failure, and relapse of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Novel pharmacogenetic interactions associated with thiopurine intolerance from hematological toxicities were investigated using whole-exome sequencing for last-cycle 6-mercaptopurine dose intensity percentages (DIP) tolerated by pediatric ALL patients (N = 320). IL6 rs13306435 carriers (N = 19) exhibited significantly lower DIP (48.0 ± 27.3%) than non-carriers (N = 209, 69.9 ± 29.0%; p = 0.0016 and 0.0028 by t test and multiple linear regression, respectively). Among 19 carriers, 7 with both heterozygous IL6 rs13306435 and CRIM1 rs3821169 showed significantly decreased DIP (24.7 ± 8.9%) than those with IL6 (N = 12, 61.6 ± 25.1%) or CRIM1 (N = 94, 68.1 ± 28.4%) variants. IL6 and CRIM1 variants showed marked inter-ethnic variability. Four-gene-interplay models revealed the best odds ratio (8.06) and potential population impact [relative risk (5.73), population attributable fraction (58%), number needed to treat (3.67), and number needed to genotype (12.50)]. Interplay between IL6 rs13306435 and CRIM1 rs3821169 was suggested as an independent and/or additive genetic determinant of thiopurine intolerance beyond NUDT15 and TPMT in pediatric ALL.
Author Correction: Eosinophils may serve as CEA-secreting cells for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) patients
Authors: Yang Yanfei , qiqi Gao , Jin Yangyi , Qi Mengdie , Lu Guohua , HequanLi
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Ability of neural network cells in learning teacher motivation scale and prediction of motivation with fuzzy logic system
Authors: Pourtousi Zahra , Khalijian Sadaf , Ghanizadeh Afsaneh , Babanezhad Meisam , Nakhjiri Ali Taghvaie , Marjani Azam , Shirazian Saeed
Published: May 2021

We employed a new approach in the field of social sciences or psychological aspects of teaching besides using a very common software package that is Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Artificial intelligence (AI) is a new domain that the methods of its data analysis could provide the researchers with new insights for their research studies and more innovative ways to analyze their data or verify the data with this method. Also, a very significant element in teaching is teacher motivation that is the trigger that pushes the teachers forward, depending on some internal and external factors. In the current study, seven research questions were designed to explore different aspects of teacher motivation, and they were analyzed via SPSS. The current study also compared the results by using an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). Due to the similarity of ANFIS to humans' brain intelligence, the results of the current study could be similar to humans regarding what happens in reality. To do so, the researchers used the validated teacher motivation scale (TMS) and asked participants to fill the questionnaire, and analyzed the results. When the inputs were added to the ANFIS system, the model indicated a high accuracy and prediction capability. The findings also illustrated the importance of the tuning model parameters for the ANFIS method to build up the AI model with a high repeatability level. The differences between the results and conclusions are discussed in detail in the article.
Expression of VEGFA-mRNA in classical and MSX2-mRNA in non-classical monocytes in patients with spondyloarthritis is associated with peripheral arthritis
Authors: Stec Małgorzata , Seweryn Michał , Korkosz Mariusz , Guła Zofia , Szatanek Rafał , Węglarczyk Kazimierz , Rutkowska-Zapała Magdalena , Lenart Marzena , Czepiel Marcin , Czyż Jarosław , Baran Jarosław , Gruca Anna , Wojnar-Lasoń Kamila , Wołkow Paweł , Siedlar Maciej
Published: May 2021

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is characterized by chronic inflammation and structural damage involving spine and peripheral joints. Monocytes, as part of innate immune system, following migration into affected tissue, may play a role in the pathogenesis of SpA. Here, potential associations between osteogenesis-linked gene expression profile in particular monocyte subpopulations and clinical signs of SpA were investigated. The 20 patients with axial and 16 with peripheral SpA were enrolled in the study. Monocyte subpopulations (classical—CD14++CD16−, intermediate—CD14++CD16+ and non-classical—CD14+CD16++) were isolated from blood using flow cytometry and gene expression analysis was performed using real-time PCR method and TaqMan Array, Human Osteogenesis, Fast 96-well plates. Next, the characteristic clinical features shared by axial and peripheral SpA were analyzed in the context of the expression of selected genes in the three subpopulations of monocytes. We demonstrated that expression of VEGFA in classical and MSX2 in non-classical monocytes were associated with the number of swollen and painful peripheral joints of SpA patients. We conclude that monocytes may contribute to the development of peripheral arthritis in SpA patients. This might be possible through subpopulation specific effects, linking number of inflamed joints with expression of VEGFA in classical monocytes and MSX2 in non-classical monocytes.
Metabolomic and phenotypic implications of the application of fertilization products containing microcontaminants in lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Authors: Matamoros Víctor , Rendón-Mera Alicia María , Piña Benjamí , Tadić Đorđe , Cañameras Núria , Carazo Nuria , Bayona J. M.
Published: May 2021

Cultivation practice using organic amendments is plausible to ensure global food security. However, plant abiotic stress due to the presence of metals and organic microcontaminants (OMCs) in fertilization products cannot be overlooked. In this study, we monitored lettuce metabolism and phenotypic response following the application of either sewage sludge (SS), the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, swine manure (SM), chemical fertilizers (CF), or no amendment (C) in a greenhouse facility. The experimental set-up consisted of five treatments with five replicates (25 experimental units randomly distributed). All fertilizers were supplied at the equivalent agronomic total nitrogen dose, but the occurrence of trace metals and/or OMCs was greater in the SS and SM than the rest. Non-target metabolomic analysis (high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with partial least squares regression) identified more than 300 plant metabolites (amino acids, organic acids, sugar alcohols, and sugars), 55 of which showed significant changes in their relative abundances depending on the type of amendment. Functional analysis indicated that the use of CF or SS increased the levels of metabolites involved in carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism. Therefore, although SS and SM fertilizers had a greater presence of heavy metals and/or OMCs, our results indicate that they did not induce measurable adverse effects in the lettuce phenotype or metabolism. Metabolic changes between fertilizers (CF and SS vs. C and SM) were mainly due to nitrogen availability.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: nAChRs gene expression and neuroinflammation in APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mouse
Authors: D’Angelo Chiara , Costantini Erica , Salvador Nieves , Marchioni Michele , Di Nicola Marta , Greig Nigel H. , Reale Marcella
Published: May 2021

An evaluation of the APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic AD mouse, presenting with the toxic Aβ1-42 deposition found in human AD, allowed us to characterize time-dependent changes in inflammatory and cholinergic markers present in AD. Astrogliosis was observed in cortex and hippocampus, with cellular loss occurring in the same areas in which Aβ plaques were present. In this setting, we found early significantly elevated levels of IL-1β and TNFα gene expression; with the hippocampus showing the highest IL-1β expression. To investigate the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, the expression of nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) and cholinesterase enzymes also was evaluated. The anti-inflammatory nAChRα7, α4, and β2 were particularly increased at 6 months of age in the hippocampus, potentially as a strategy to counteract Aβ deposition and the ensuing inflammatory state. A time-dependent subunit switch to the α3β4 type occurred. Whether α3, β4 subunits have a pro-inflammatory or an inhibitory effect on ACh stimulation remains speculative. Aβ1-42 deposition, neuronal loss and increased astrocytes were detected, and a time-dependent change in components of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway were observed. A greater understanding of time-dependent Aβ/nAChRs interactions may aid in defining new therapeutic strategies and novel molecular targets.
Longitudinal studies support the safety and ethics of virtual reality suicide as a research method
Authors: Huang Xieyining , Funsch Kensie M. , Park Esther C. , Conway Paul , Franklin Joseph C. , Ribeiro Jessica D.
Published: May 2021

Many have expressed concerns about the safety and ethics of conducting suicide research, especially intense suicide research methods that expose participants to graphic depictions of suicidality. We conducted two studies to evaluate the effects of one such method called virtual reality (VR) suicide. Study 1 tested the effects of VR suicide exposure over the course of one month in participants with (n = 56) and without a history of suicidality (n = 50). Study 2 exposed some participants to VR suicide scenarios (n = 79) and others to control scenarios (n = 80). Participants were invited to complete a follow-up assessment after an average of 2 years. For both studies, the presence of suicidality post exposure was the primary outcome, with closely related constructs (e.g., capability for suicide, agitation) as secondary outcomes. Study 1 found no pre-post increases in suicidality or related variables, but revealed several significant decreases associated with small to medium effect sizes in suicide-related constructs. In Study 2, VR suicide exposure did not cause any significant increases in suicidality or related variables. Together with prior research, these findings suggest that methods involving intense suicide stimuli appear safe and consistent with utilitarian ethics.
Surgical stress and metabolic response after totally laparoscopic right colectomy
Authors: Milone Marco , Desiderio Antonella , Velotti Nunzio , Manigrasso Michele , Vertaldi Sara , Bracale Umberto , D’Ambra Michele , Servillo Giuseppe , De Simone Giuseppe , De Palma Fatima Domenica Elisa , Perruolo Giuseppe , Raciti Gregory Alexander , Miele Claudia , Beguinot Francesco , De Palma Giovanni Domenico
Published: May 2021

No clear consensus on the need to perform an intracorporeal anastomosis (IA) after laparoscopic right colectomy is currently available. One of the potential benefits of intracorporeal anastomosis may be a reduction in surgical stress. Herein, we evaluated the surgical stress response and the metabolic response in patients who underwent right colonic resection for colon cancer. Fifty-nine patients who underwent laparoscopic resection for right colon cancer were randomized to receive an intracorporeal or an extracorporeal anastomosis (EA). Data including demographics (age, sex, BMI and ASA score), pathological (AJCC tumour stage and tumour localization) and surgical results were recorded. Moreover, to determine the levels of the inflammatory response, mediators, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, and IL-13, were evaluated. Similarly, cortisol and insulin levels were evaluated as hormonal responses to surgical stress. We found that the proinflammatory mediator IL-6, CRP, TNF and IL-1β levels, were significantly reduced in IA compared to EA. Concurrently, an improved profile of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-13 was observed in the IA group. Relative to the hormone response to surgical stress, cortisol was increased in patients who underwent EA, while insulin was reduced in the EA group. Based on these results, surgical stress and metabolic response to IA justify advocating the adoption of a totally laparoscopic approach when performing a right colectomy for cancer.

This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT03422588).
Towards a neutron and X-ray reflectometry environment for the study of solid–liquid interfaces under shear
Authors: Armstrong Alexander J. , McCoy Thomas M. , Welbourn Rebecca J. L. , Barker Robert , Rawle Jonathan L. , Cattoz Beatrice , Dowding Peter J. , Routh Alexander F.
Published: May 2021

A novel neutron and X-ray reflectometry sample environment is presented for the study of surface-active molecules at solid–liquid interfaces under shear. Neutron reflectometry was successfully used to characterise the iron oxide–dodecane interface at a shear rate of $$7.0\times {}10^{2}$$

7.0
×

10
2

$$\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

s

-
1

using a combination of conventional reflectometry theory coupled with the summation of reflected intensities to describe reflectivity from thicker films. Additionally, the structure adopted by glycerol monooleate (GMO), an Organic Friction Modifier, when adsorbed at the iron oxide–dodecane interface at a shear rate of $$7.0\times {}10^{2}$$

7.0
×

10
2

$$\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

s

-
1

was studied. It was found that GMO forms a surface layer that appears unaltered by the effect of shear, where the thickness of the GMO layer was found to be $$24.3^{+9.9}_{-10.2}$$

24
.

3

-
10.2

+
9.9

Å under direct shear at $$7.0\times {}10^{2}$$

7.0
×

10
2

$$\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

s

-
1

and $$25.8^{+4.4}_{-5.2}$$

25
.

8

-
5.2

+
4.4

Å when not directly under shear. Finally, a model to analyse X-ray reflectometry data collected with the sample environment is also described and applied to data collected at $$3.0\times {}10^{3}$$

3.0
×

10
3

$$\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

s

-
1

.
Variations of risk factors for ischemic stroke and its subtypes in Chinese patients in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Chung-Fen , Sudlow Cathie L. M. , Anderson Niall , Jeng Jiann-Shing
Published: May 2021

Chinese have a higher stroke incidence and a different distribution of ischemic stroke (IS) subtypes as compared with Caucasians. Herein we aimed to investigate the prevalence and associations of major risk factors in IS and its subtypes in Chinese patients. From 2006 to 2011, we included 4953 acute IS patients consecutively recruited in National Taiwan University Hospital Stroke Registry (mean age 68 years; male 59%). For each risk factor, we accessed the proportion in all IS patients, and calculated odds ratios for each main IS subtype versus other subtypes. Multiple logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounders, and to examine the associations of risk factors with IS subtypes. Compared with other ischemic subtypes, large artery atherosclerotic and lacunar strokes were associated with hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidaemia, while cardioembolic strokes were associated with ischemic heart disease. Furthermore, the associations with hypertension and diabetes became stronger in lacunar strokes after adjusting for confounders, but not in other ischemic subtypes.
Here we report the variable effects of risk factors on different IS subtypes in Chinese patients in Taiwan. Our findings could help shed light on different mechanisms of IS subtypes and provide targets to make more effective strategies for IS prevention.
Novel capsid binder and PI4KIIIbeta inhibitors for EV-A71 replication inhibition
Authors: Tan Yong Wah , Yam Wan Keat , Kooi Rachel Jia Wen , Westman Jacob , Arbrandt Gustav , Chu Justin Jang Hann
Published: May 2021

The Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious viral illness generally manifests as a mild disease in young children and immunocompromised adults. It has however emerged as a significant public health threat in recent years as outbreaks have been occurring regularly, especially in the Asia–Pacific. The disease can result from infections by a wide variety of human enteroviruses, particularly, Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) has garnered more attention due to its association with severe disease in infected patients. Despite the potential to result severe neurological complications or even fatality, there is currently no effective antiviral for treatment of EV-A71 infections and the only vaccines available are restricted to distribution in China. In this study, we report the in vitro and in vivo evaluation of two candidate antiviral compounds active against EV-A71, a viral capsid inhibitor (G197) and a novel host-targeting phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase III beta inhibitor (N373) which, especially when used in combination, can significantly improve the survival and pathology of infected mice.
Publisher Correction: Persistent meanders and eddies lead to quasi‑steady Lagrangian transport patterns in a weak western boundary current
Authors: Gouveia M. B. , Duran R. , Lorenzzetti J. A. , Assireu A. T. , Toste R. , de F. Assad L. P. , Gherardi D. F. M.
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Towards a complete elucidation of the ro-vibrational band structure in the SF6 infrared spectrum from full quantum-mechanical calculations
Authors: Rey Michaël , Chizhmakova Iana S. , Nikitin Andrei V. , Tyuterev Vladimir G.
Published: May 2021

The first accurate and complete theoretical room-temperature rotationally resolved spectra in the range 300–3000 cm−1 are reported for the three most abundant isotopologues (32SF6, 33SF6 and 34SF6) of the sulfur hexafluoride molecule.
An exploration into two-dimensional metal oxides, and other 2D materials, synthesised via liquid metal printing and transfer techniques
Authors: Goff Abigail , Aukarasereenont Patjaree , Nguyen Chung K. , Grant Ryan , Syed Nitu , Zavabeti Ali , Elbourne Aaron , Daeneke Torben
Published: May 2021

The emerging field of liquid metal facilitated 2D material synthesis is reviewed in this perspective. Design strategies that utilise Cabrera–Mott oxidation to grow 2D nanosheets are explored, and the potential new application fields are highlighted.
How the external solvent in biocompatible reverse micelles can improve the alkaline phosphatase behavior
Authors: Dib Nahir , Girardi Valeria R. , Silber Juana J. , Correa N. Mariano , Falcone R. Dario
Published: May 2021

Hydrolysis of 1-naphthyl phosphate by alkaline phosphatase in biocompatible reverse micelles.
Comparative phytochemical analysis of five Egyptian strawberry cultivars (Fragaria×ananassaDuch.) and antidiabetic potential of Festival and Red Merlin cultivars
Authors: El-Hawary Seham S. , Mohammed Rabab , El-Din Marwa Emad , Hassan Hossam M. , Ali Zeinab Y. , Rateb Mostafa E. , Bellah El Naggar El Moataz , Othman Eman M. , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan
Published: May 2021

This work aims to explore the differences in phytochemical composition and biological properties of five strawberry hybrids (Fragaria×ananassaDuch.), and highlights the non-edible part (byproduct) as a source of self-remedy natural herb along with fruits.
Enhanced thermoelectric performance of graphene based nanocomposite coated self-powered wearable e-textiles for energy harvesting from human body heat
Authors: Khoso Nazakat Ali , Jiao Xie , GuangYu Xu , Tian Sun , Wang JiaJun
Published: May 2021

Experimental process diagram for the fabrication of PEDOT:PSS–rGO based electronic textiles on a mass scale.
Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy for a qualitative evaluation of plant leaf pigment extraction
Authors: Barreto Matheus Sampaio Carneiro , Reis Josimar Viera dos , Muraoka Takashi , Jemo Martin , Vergutz Leonardus , Alleoni Luís Reynaldo F.
Published: May 2021

The extraction and quantification of leaf pigments are easy, fast, and cheap procedures; on the other hand, DRIFT spectroscopy associated with chemometrics tools could offer new insights into leaf biochemical composition.
Structural analysis of petroporphyrins from asphaltene by trapped ion mobility coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Maillard Julien F. , Le Maître Johann , Rüger Christopher P. , Ridgeway Mark , Thompson Christopher J. , Paupy Benoit , Hubert-Roux Marie , Park Melvin , Afonso Carlos , Giusti Pierre
Published: May 2021

Combination of experimentally determined collision-cross sections provided by trapped ion mobility high-resolution mass spectrometry with in-silico calculations for structural assessment of petroporphyrins within an ultra-complex crude oil matrix.
Microplasma-induced vapor generation for rapid, sample preparation-free screening of mercury in fruits and vegetables
Authors: Zhang Ai , Lin Yao , Yang Jiahui , He Liangbo , Deng Yurong , Hou Xiandeng , Zheng Chengbin
Published: May 2021

A simple, sensitive method based on microplasma-induced chemical vapor generation for the rapid screening and quantification of mercury in fruits and vegetables by atomic spectrometry without sample preparation.
Disposable non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors based on screen-printed graphite macroelectrodes modified via a facile methodology with Ni, Cu, and Ni/Cu hydroxides are shown to accurately determine glucose in real human serum blood samples
Authors: Chelaghmia Mohamed L. , Fisli Hassina , Nacef Mouna , Brownson Dale A. C. , Affoune Abed M. , Satha Hamid , Banks Craig E.
Published: May 2021

A 3D non-enzymatic glucose disposable electrochemical sensor based on screen-printed graphite macroelectrodes (SPEs), modified with Ni, Cu, and Ni/Cu hydroxides, was prepared by a facile and cost-effective electrochemical method for the first time.
Nanobiosensing based on optically selected antibodies and superparamagnetic labels for rapid and highly sensitive quantification of polyvalent hepatitis B surface antigen
Authors: Bragina Vera A. , Orlov Alexey V. , Znoyko Sergey L. , Pushkarev Averyan V. , Novichikhin Denis O. , Guteneva Natalia V. , Nikitin Maxim P. , Gorshkov Boris G. , Nikitin Petr I.
Published: May 2021

Magnetic LF assay for rapid quantification of HBsAg in serum.
Covalent organic framework-engineered polydopamine nanoplatform for multimodal imaging-guided tumor photothermal-chemotherapy
Authors: Gao Peng , Wei Ruyue , Liu Xiaohan , Chen Yuanyuan , Wu Tong , Shi Mingwan , Wang Mengzhen , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: May 2021

A covalent organic framework-engineered polydopamine nanoplatform with improved drug loading capacity and reduced premature leakage has been developed for multimodal imaging-guided tumor-targeted photothermal-chemotherapy.
Phosphorescent multinuclear complexes for optoelectronics: tuning of the excited-state dynamics
Authors: Mauro Matteo
Published: May 2021

The emerging class of multimetallic triplet emitters for efficient light-emitting devices is herein showcased in a systematic approach.
Designing SAPO-18 with energetically favorable tetrahedral Si ions for an MTO reaction
Authors: Wen Meiting , Ren Li , Zhang Jingyan , Jiang Jingang , Xu Hao , Guan Yejun , Wu Peng
Published: May 2021

Three cyclic organic amines have been employed to synthesize SAPO-18. Experimental investigations and theoretical calculations imply that the configurations of OSDAs play a decisive role in directing the Si ions into the T sites.
Understanding the elastic bending mechanism in a 9,10-anthraquinone crystal through thermal expansion study
Authors: Rather Sumair A. , Saha Binoy K.
Published: May 2021

Thermal expansion study has been used to understand the mechanism of elastic bending in 9,10-anthraquinone. Expansion along the bending axis due to bending is expected to resemble the thermal expansion along the same direction.
Cyclopentadienyl radical formation from the reaction of excited nitrogen atoms with benzene: a theoretical study
Authors: Chin Chih-Hao , Zhu Tong , Zhang John Zeng Hui
Published: May 2021

Cyclopentadienyl radical and 1-cyano-2,4-cyclopentadiene formation by the reaction of atomic nitrogen with benzene: a ring expansion and shrinking reactions.
Dopants and grain boundary effects in monolayer MoS2: a first-principles study
Authors: Qiu Xiaoqian , Wang Yiren , Jiang Yong
Published: May 2021

The structural, electronic and magnetic properties of large area chemical vapor deposited monolayer MoS2 rely significantly on the presence of grain boundaries (GBs) and defects.
In situ electrochemical Raman investigation of charge storage in rGO and N-doped rGO
Authors: Yadav Rohit , Joshi Prerna , Hara Masanori , Yoshimura Masamichi
Published: May 2021

In situ electrochemical Raman investigation of N-rGO, confirming the formation of new reversible intermediate species.
Review on physical impedance models in modern battery research
Authors: Gaddam Rohit Ranganathan , Katzenmeier Leon , Lamprecht Xaver , Bandarenka Aliaksandr S.
Published: May 2021

An overview of modern physical impedance models in battery research is provided with selected examples dealing with traditional, aqueous, and all-solid-state systems.
Effects of solvation shell relaxation on chain association mechanisms in poly(3-hexylthiophene) solutions
Authors: Wu Ching H. , Hua Chi C. , Wang Chun I.
Published: May 2021

Solvation shell relaxations impact chain association and sliding and thus help determine the crystallinity and nanofiber formation in P3HT solutions.
Recent advances on enhancing the multicarbon selectivity of nanostructured Cu-based catalysts
Authors: Gustavsen Kim R. , Wang Kaiying
Published: May 2021

This article reviews the recent progress and emerging strategies for achieving the selective conversion of CO2 to multicarbon reaction products on Cu-based catalysts.
Pressure-induced novel nitrogen-rich aluminum nitrides: AlN6, Al2N7and AlN7with polymeric nitrogen chains and rings
Authors: Du Huifang , Ge Yanfeng , Zhu Jinlong , Guo Wei , Yao Yugui
Published: May 2021

DFT calculations and the structural search method based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm under pressure have been used to predict novel nitrogen-rich aluminum nitrides with polymeric nitrogen chains and rings.
Weak covalent interactions and anionic charge-sharing polymerisation in cluster environments
Authors: Dauletyarov Yerbolat , Sanov Andrei
Published: May 2021

How solvation obstructs charge sharing and limits the size of covalently bound core anions in clusters.
Mechanism of chiral recognition by enantiomorphous cytosine crystals during enantiomer adsorption
Authors: Gus’kov Vladimir Yu. , Shayakhmetova Regina Kh. , Allayarova Darya A. , Sharafutdinova Yulia F. , Gilfanova Elmira L. , Pavlova Irina N. , Garipova Gulnaz Z.
Published: May 2021

Chiral {001} surface of cytosine (P)-crystal.
Fundamental photophysics of isomorphic and expanded fluorescent nucleoside analogues
Authors: Dziuba Dmytro , Didier Pascal , Ciaco Stefano , Barth Anders , Seidel Claus A. M. , Mély Yves
Published: May 2021

Understanding and optimization of the photophysics of fluorescent nucleoside analogues are critical for their applications in probing the structure and dynamics of nucleic acids, and studying their interactions with ligands and biomolecules.
Synthesis of Mn-doped and anatase/rutile mixed-phase TiO2 nanofibers for high photoactivity performance
Authors: Fu Fan , Zhang Yufan , Zhang Yan , Chen Yuyue
Published: May 2021

A soft membrane of Mn@TiO2 NFs was fabricated by an electrospinning and thermal annealing process. It shows a mixture phase and a palpably increased specific surface area, which ensured a pronounced enhancement of the photocatalytic activity.
A supramolecular complex based on a Gd-containing polyoxometalate and food-borne peptide for MRI/CT imaging and NIR-triggered photothermal therapy
Authors: Zhang Simin , Li Meng , Zhang Yuan , Wang Ruichun , Song Yukun , Zhao Weiping , Lin Songyi
Published: May 2021

A multifunctional supramolecular complex is reported for the integrated multiple magnetic resonance imaging/computed X-ray tomography (MRI/CT) imaging and photothermal therapy.
The effect of tether groups on the spin states of iron(ii)/bis[2,6-di(pyrazol-1-yl)pyridine] complexes
Authors: Capel Berdiell Izar , García-López Victor , Howard Mark J. , Clemente-León Miguel , Halcrow Malcolm A.
Published: May 2021

The spin states of iron(ii) complexes of 1-bpp derivatives bearing tether group substituents are controlled by the electronic properties of the linker functional group (carboxamide, in this example).
Challenges for the future of tandem photovoltaics on the path to terawatt levels: a technology review
Authors: Martinho Filipe
Published: May 2021

On the path to terawatt levels of PV generation, c-Si will be unstoppable, but it might gain an ally along the way – new material developments enabling Si-based multijunction solar cells could potentially be the next major innovation in PV.