bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenomic analysis of Clostridioides difficile ribotype 106 strains reveals novel genetic islands and emergent phenotypes
Authors: Roxas Bryan Angelo P. , Roxas Jennifer Lising , Claus-Walker Rachel , Harishankar Anusha , Mansoor Asad , Anwar Farhan , Jillella Shobitha , Williams Alison , Lindsey Jason , Elliott Sean P. , Shehab Kareem W. , Viswanathan V. K. , Vedantam Gayatri
Published: December 2020

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a major healthcare-associated diarrheal disease. Consistent with trends across the United States, C. difficile RT106 was the second-most prevalent molecular type in our surveillance in Arizona from 2015 to 2018. A representative RT106 strain displayed robust virulence and 100% lethality in the hamster model of acute CDI. We identified a unique 46 KB genomic island (GI1) in all RT106 strains sequenced to date, including those in public databases. GI1 was not found in its entirety in any other C. difficile clade, or indeed, in any other microbial genome; however, smaller segments were detected in Enterococcus faecium strains. Molecular clock analyses suggested that GI1 was horizontally acquired and sequentially assembled over time. GI1 encodes homologs of VanZ and a SrtB-anchored collagen-binding adhesin, and correspondingly, all tested RT106 strains had increased teicoplanin resistance, and a majority displayed collagen-dependent biofilm formation. Two additional genomic islands (GI2 and GI3) were also present in a subset of RT106 strains. All three islands are predicted to encode mobile genetic elements as well as virulence factors. Emergent phenotypes associated with these genetic islands may have contributed to the relatively rapid expansion of RT106 in US healthcare and community settings.
MEK reduces cancer-specific PpIX accumulation through the RSK-ABCB1 and HIF-1α-FECH axes
Authors: Chelakkot Vipin Shankar , Liu Kaiwen , Yoshioka Ema , Saha Shaykat , Xu Danyang , Licursi Maria , Dorward Ann , Hirasawa Kensuke
Published: December 2020

The efficacy of aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA)-based photodynamic diagnosis (5-ALA-PDD) and photodynamic therapy (5-ALA-PDT) is dependent on 5-ALA-induced cancer-specific accumulation of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). We previously reported that inhibition of oncogenic Ras/MEK increases PpIX accumulation in cancer cells by reducing PpIX efflux through ATP-binding cassette sub-family B member 1 (ABCB1) and ferrochelatase (FECH)-catalysed PpIX conversion to haem. Here, we sought to identify the downstream pathways of Ras/MEK involved in the regulation of PpIX accumulation via ABCB1 and FECH. First, we demonstrated that Ras/MEK activation reduced PpIX accumulation in RasV12-transformed NIH3T3 cells and HRAS transgenic mice. Knockdown of p90 ribosomal S6 kinases (RSK) 2, 3, or 4 increased PpIX accumulation in RasV12-transformed NIH3T3 cells. Further, treatment with an RSK inhibitor reduced ABCB1 expression and increased PpIX accumulation. Moreover, HIF-1α expression was reduced when RasV12-transformed NIH3T3 cells were treated with a MEK inhibitor, demonstrating that HIF-1α is a downstream element of MEK. HIF-1α inhibition decreased FECH activity and increased PpIX accumulation. Finally, we demonstrated the involvement of RSKs and HIF-1α in the regulation of PpIX accumulation in human cancer cell lines. These results demonstrate that the RSK-ABCB1 and HIF-1α-FECH axes are the downstream pathways of Ras/MEK involved in the regulation of PpIX accumulation.
Development of β-Ga2O3 layers growth on sapphire substrates employing modeling of precursors ratio in halide vapor phase epitaxy reactor
Authors: Pozina Galia , Hsu Chih-Wei , Abrikossova Natalia , Kaliteevski Mikhail A. , Hemmingsson Carl
Published: December 2020

Gallium oxide is a promising semiconductor with great potential for efficient power electronics due to its ultra-wide band gap and high breakdown electric field. Optimization of halide vapor phase epitaxy growth of heteroepitaxial $$\upbeta$$
β
-Ga2O3 layers is demonstrated using a simulation model to predict the distribution of the ratio of gallium to oxygen precursors inside the reactor chamber. The best structural quality is obtained for layers grown at 825–850 °C and with a III/VI precursor ratio of 0.2. Although the structural and optical properties are similar, the surface morphology is more deteriorated for the $$\upbeta$$
β
-Ga2O3 layers grown on 5 degree off-axis sapphire substrates compared to on-axis samples even for optimized process parameters. Cathodoluminescence with a peak at 3.3 eV is typical for unintentionally doped n-type $$\upbeta$$
β
-Ga2O3 and shows the appearance of additional emissions in blue and green region at ~ 3.0, ~ 2.8, ~ 2.6 and ~ 2.4 eV, especially when the growth temperatures is lowered to 800–825 °C. Estimation of the band gap energy to ~ 4.65 eV from absorption indicates a high density of vacancy defects.
A probabilistic approach to dispersal in spatially explicit meta-populations
Authors: Karnatak Rajat , Wollrab Sabine
Published: December 2020

Meta-population and -community models have extended our understanding regarding the influence of habitat distribution, local patch dynamics, and dispersal on species distribution patterns. Currently, theoretical insights on spatial distribution patterns are limited by the dominant use of deterministic approaches for modeling species dispersal. In this work, we introduce a probabilistic, network-based framework to describe species dispersal by considering inter-patch connections as network-determined probabilistic events. We highlight important differences between a deterministic approach and our dispersal formalism. Exemplified for a meta-population, our results indicate that the proposed scheme provides a realistic relationship between dispersal rate and extinction thresholds. Furthermore, it enables us to investigate the influence of patch density on meta-population persistence and provides insight on the effects of probabilistic dispersal events on species persistence. Importantly, our formalism makes it possible to capture the transient nature of inter-patch connections, and can thereby provide short term predictions on species distribution, which might be highly relevant for projections on how climate and land use changes influence species distribution patterns.
Dynamics of large pyroclastic currents inferred by the internal architecture of the Campanian Ignimbrite
Authors: Scarpati Claudio , Sparice Domenico , Perrotta Annamaria
Published: December 2020

Large ignimbrites are the product of devastating explosive eruptions that have repeatedly impacted climate and life on global scale. The assemblage of vertical and lateral lithofacies variations within an ignimbrite sheet, its internal architecture, may help to determine how the parental pyroclastic current evolves in time and space. The 39 ka Campanian Ignimbrite eruption, vented from Campi Flegrei caldera, laid down a thick ignimbrite over an area of thousands of km2. A detailed reconstruction of the vertical and lateral variation of the seven lithofacies recognised in the ignimbrite medial sequence constrains the behaviour of this event. The pyroclastic current flowed over a wide area around Campi Flegrei without depositing (bypass zone), and inundated a huge area during most of the paroxysmal, waxing phase, emplacing a mainly incipiently- to strongly- welded ignimbrite. Following this waxing phase, the leading edge of the current retreated back towards the source as the current waned, impacting a progressively smaller area and leaving an unconsolidated ash and lapilli deposit, later lithified. Our study illustrates how large pyroclastic currents can evolve in time and space and the importance of both internal (eruptive and transport mechanisms) and external (topography, surficial water and rain) factors in governing their behaviour.
Modulation of serotonin signaling/metabolism by Akkermansia muciniphila and its extracellular vesicles through the gut-brain axis in mice
Authors: Yaghoubfar Rezvan , Behrouzi Ava , Ashrafian Fatemeh , Shahryari Arefeh , Moradi Hamid Reza , Choopani Samira , Hadifar Shima , Vaziri Farzam , Nojoumi Seyed Ali , Fateh Abolfazl , Khatami Shohreh , Siadat Seyed Davar
Published: December 2020

Several studies have reported that the host-microbe interactions in the gut modulate the host serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) system. Here, we evaluated the effects ofAkkermansia muciniphilaand its extracellular vesicles (EVs) on genes pertaining to the serotonergic system in the colon and hippocampus of mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were administered viableA. muciniphilaand its EVs for 4 weeks. The serotonin levels in the colon, hippocampus, and serum of mice, as well as the human colon carcinoma cells (Caco-2), were measured by ELISA assays. Also, the effects ofA. muciniphilaand its EVs on the expression of serotonin system genes in the colon and hippocampus were examined.A. muciniphilaand its EVs may have a biological effect on the induction of serotonin levels in the colon and hippocampus of mice. Also, EVs increased the serotonin level in the Caco-2 cell line. In contrast, both treatments decreased the serotonin level in the serum. Both the bacterium and its EVs had significant effects on the mRNA expression of genes, involved in serotonin signaling/metabolism in the colon and hippocampus of mice. Moreover,A. muciniphilaand its EVs affected the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (Il-10andTnf-α) in the colon, however, there is no significant difference in inflammatory cell infiltrate in the histopathology of the colon. The presence ofA. muciniphilaand its EVs in the gut promotes serotonin concentration, they also affect serotonin signaling/metabolism through the gut-brain axis and may be considered in new therapeutic strategies to ameliorate serotonin-related disorders.
Metallic ground states of undoped Ti2O3 films induced by elongated c-axis lattice constant
Authors: Yoshimatsu K. , Hasegawa N. , Nambu Y. , Ishii Y. , Wakabayashi Y. , Kumigashira H.
Published: December 2020

Ti2O3 exhibits unique metal–insulator transition (MIT) at ~ 450 K over a wide temperature range of ~ 150 K. The close relationship between MIT and crystal deformation has been proposed. However, as physical properties are governed by the thermodynamic equilibrium in bulk systems, conducting experimental studies under different lattice deformations remains challenging. Epitaxial thin films can offer high flexibility to accommodate adaptive crystal lattices and provide efficient platforms for investigating the MIT. In this study, we report the synthesis of corundum-type Ti2O3 films on various growth temperatures. We found that the metallic ground states appeared in the films grown at low temperatures. The electronic ground states were further investigated by the electronic-structure calculations. Results suggest that the electrical properties of Ti2O3 films were governed by the c/a ratio of the crystal structure, and the absence of the MIT was attributed to the lattice deformation characterized by an elongated c lattice constant.
Effects of activation of the LINE-1 antisense promoter on the growth of cultured cells
Authors: Honda Tomoyuki , Nishikawa Yuki , Nishimura Kensuke , Teng Da , Takemoto Keiko , Ueda Keiji
Published: December 2020

Long interspersed element 1 (LINE-1, or L1) is a retrotransposon that constitutes ~ 17% of the human genome. Although ~ 6000 full-length L1s spread throughout the human genome, their biological significance remains undetermined. The L1 5′ untranslated region has bidirectional promoter activity with a sense promoter driving L1 mRNA production and an antisense promoter (ASP) driving the production of L1-gene chimeric RNAs. Here, we stimulated L1 ASP activity using CRISPR-Cas9 technology to evaluate its biological impacts. Activation of the L1 ASP upregulated the expression of L1 ASP-driven ORF0 and enhanced cell growth. Furthermore, the exogenous expression of ORF0 also enhanced cell growth. These results indicate that activation of L1 ASP activity fuels cell growth at least through ORF0 expression. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating the role of the L1 ASP in a biological context. Considering that L1 sequences are desilenced in various tumor cells, our results indicate that activation of the L1 ASP may be a cause of tumor growth; therefore, interfering with L1 ASP activity may be a potential strategy to suppress the growth.
High yield cyclotron production of a novel 133/135La theranostic pair for nuclear medicine
Authors: Nelson Bryce J. B. , Wilson John , Andersson Jan D. , Wuest Frank
Published: December 2020

This study reports the high-yield production of a novel 133/135La theranostic pair at a 22 MeV proton beam energy as an attractive alternative to the recently introduced 132/135La pair, demonstrating over an order of magnitude production increase of 133/135La (231 ± 8 MBq 133La and 166 ± 5 MBq 135La at End of Bombardment (EOB)) compared to 11.9 MeV production of 132/135La (0.82 ± 0.06 MBq 132La and 19.0 ± 1.2 MBq 135La) for 500 µA·min irradiations. A new sealed solid cyclotron target is introduced, which is fast to assemble, easy to handle, storable, and contains reusable components. Radiolabeling with macrocyclic chelators DOTA and macropa achieved full incorporation, with respective apparent 133La molar activites of 33 ± 5 GBq/µmol and 30 ± 4 GBq/µmol. PET centers with access to a 22 MeV capable cyclotron could produce clinically-relevant doses of 133/135La, via natBa irradiation, as a standalone theranostic agent for PET imaging and Auger electron therapy. With lower positron energies and less energetic and abundant gamma rays than 68Ga, 44Sc and 132La, 133La appears to be an attractive radiometal candidate for PET applications requiring a higher scanning resolution, a relatively long isotopic half-life, ease of handling, and a low patient dose.
Identification of Alzheimer's disease using a convolutional neural network model based on T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Bae Jong Bin , Lee Subin , Jung Wonmo , Park Sejin , Kim Weonjin , Oh Hyunwoo , Han Ji Won , Kim Grace Eun , Kim Jun Sung , Kim Jae Hyoung , Kim Ki Woong
Published: December 2020

The classification of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) using deep learning methods has shown promising results, but successful application in clinical settings requires a combination of high accuracy, short processing time, and generalizability to various populations. In this study, we developed a convolutional neural network (CNN)-based AD classification algorithm using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans from AD patients and age/gender-matched cognitively normal controls from two populations that differ in ethnicity and education level. These populations come from the Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH) and Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). For each population, we trained CNNs on five subsets using coronal slices of T1-weighted images that cover the medial temporal lobe. We evaluated the models on validation subsets from both the same population (within-dataset validation) and other population (between-dataset validation). Our models achieved average areas under the curves of 0.91–0.94 for within-dataset validation and 0.88–0.89 for between-dataset validation. The mean processing time per person was 23–24 s. The within-dataset and between-dataset performances were comparable between the ADNI-derived and SNUBH-derived models. These results demonstrate the generalizability of our models to different patients with different ethnicities and education levels, as well as their potential for deployment as fast and accurate diagnostic support tools for AD.
Zone-specific damage of the olfactory epithelium under protein restriction
Authors: Tuerdi Ayinuer , Kikuta Shu , Kinoshita Makoto , Kamogashira Teru , Kondo Kenji , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: December 2020

Oxidative stress causes tissue damage, affecting age-related pathologies. Protein restriction (PR) provides a powerful intervention strategy for reducing oxidative stress, which may have a positive effect on individual organs. However, it is unknown whether PR intervention influences the olfactory system. Here, we investigated how 10 months of PR could affect the cell dynamics of the olfactory epithelium (OE) in mice. We found that PR reduced age-related loss of outer hair cells in the cochlea, providing preventive effects against age-related hearing loss. In contrast, PR resulted in reduced mature olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs), increased proliferative basal cells, and increased apoptotic OSNs in zone 1 (the only area containing neurons expressing NQO1 [quinone dehydrogenase 1]) of the OE in comparison with animals given a control diet. Substantial oxidative stress occurred in NQO1-positive cells and induced apoptotic OSNs in zone 1. These results indicate that in contrast to the positive effect on the auditory system, PR induces oxidative stress and structurally and functionally negative effects on OSNs in zone 1, which is probably involved in the bioactivation of NQO1.
Impact of intraoperative margin clearance on survival following pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Birgin Emrullah , Rasbach Erik , Téoule Patrick , Rückert Felix , Reissfelder Christoph , Rahbari Nuh N.
Published: December 2020

The use of intraoperative margin revision to achieve margin clearance in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic cancer is controversial. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the evidence of intraoperative margin revisions of the pancreatic neck and its impact on overall survival (OS). Nine studies with 4501 patients were included. Patient cohort was stratified in an R0R0-group (negative margin on frozen and permanent section), R1R0-group (revised positive margin on frozen section which turned negative on permanent section), and R1R1-group (positive margin on frozen and permanent section despite margin revision). OS was higher in the R1R0-group (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.72–0.96, P = 0.01) compared to the R1R1-group but lower compared to the R0R0-group (HR 1.20; 95% CI 1.05–1.37, P = 0.008), respectively. Subgroup analyses on the use of different margin clearance definitions confirmed an OS benefit in the R1R0-group compared to the R1R1-group (HR 0.81; 95% CI 0.65–0.99, P = 0.04). In conclusion, intraoperative margin clearance of the pancreatic neck margin is associated with improved OS while residual tumor indicates aggressive tumor biology. Consensus definitions on margin terminologies, clearance, and surgical techniques are required.
Author Correction: Factors influencing riverine utilization patterns in two sympatric macaques
Authors: Otani Yosuke , Bernard Henry , Wong Anna , Tangah Joseph , Tuuga Augustine , Hanya Goro , Matsuda Ikki
Published: December 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Bone marrow stromal cell therapy improves survival after radiation injury but does not restore endogenous hematopoiesis
Authors: Diaz Miguel F. , Horton Paulina D. , Dumbali Sandeep P. , Kumar Akshita , Livingston Megan , Skibber Max A. , Mohammadalipour Amina , Gill Brijesh S. , Zhang Songlin , Cox Charles S. , Wenzel Pamela L.
Published: December 2020

The only available option to treat radiation-induced hematopoietic syndrome is allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, a therapy unavailable to many patients undergoing treatment for malignancy, which would also be infeasible in a radiological disaster. Stromal cells serve as critical components of the hematopoietic stem cell niche and are thought to protect hematopoietic cells under stress. Prior studies that have transplanted mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) without co-administration of a hematopoietic graft have shown underwhelming rescue of endogenous hematopoiesis and have delivered the cells within 24 h of radiation exposure. Herein, we examine the efficacy of a human bone marrow-derived MSC therapy delivered at 3 h or 30 h in ameliorating radiation-induced hematopoietic syndrome and show that pancytopenia persists despite MSC therapy. Animals exposed to radiation had poorer survival and experienced loss of leukocytes, platelets, and red blood cells. Importantly, mice that received a therapeutic dose of MSCs were significantly less likely to die but experienced equivalent collapse of the hematopoietic system. The cause of the improved survival was unclear, as complete blood counts, splenic and marrow cellularity, numbers and function of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, and frequency of niche cells were not significantly improved by MSC therapy. Moreover, human MSCs were not detected in the bone marrow. MSC therapy reduced crypt dropout in the small intestine and promoted elevated expression of growth factors with established roles in gut development and regeneration, including PDGF-A, IGFBP-3, IGFBP-2, and IGF-1. We conclude that MSC therapy improves survival not through overt hematopoietic rescue but by positive impact on other radiosensitive tissues, such as the intestinal mucosa. Collectively, these data reveal that MSCs could be an effective countermeasure in cancer patients and victims of nuclear accidents but that MSCs alone do not significantly accelerate or contribute to recovery of the blood system.
Highly dispersed silver imbedded into TiN submicrospheres for electrochemical detecting of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Chu Youqun , Huang Zhangkao , Wang Xinhang , Zhou Menglei , Zhao Fengming
Published: December 2020

We report the fabrication of silver nanoparticles evenly imbedded into TiN submicrospheres via one-pot solvothermal reaction and subsequent nitridation for electrochemical detecting of hydrogen peroxide. The precursor of TiO2 submicrospheres and high dispersion of silver nanoparticles are regulated by the alcoholysis of tetrabutyl titanate and reducibility of enol in vitamin C. The ion nitriding promoted the conductivity and micro-nano porous structure on the surface of TiN submicrospheres, which increase the dispersity of silver nanoparticles and make contributions to avoid aggregations. More importantly, the electrochemical response of Ag-TiN submicrospheres to H2O2 was remarkably enhanced due to the co-effects of Ag and N-doping. It provides a superior sensing performance for electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide at − 0.3 V with a high sensitivity of 33.25 μA mmol L−1 cm−2, wide linear range of 0.05–2100 μM and low detection limit of 7.7 nM. The fabricated sensor also reliably applied in detection of H2O2 in milk samples with good reproducibility, repeatability and storage stability.
The phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) inhibitor, 3-mercaptopicolinic acid (3-MPA), induces myogenic differentiation in C2C12 cells
Authors: Brearley Madelaine C. , Daniel Zoe C. T. R. , Loughna Paul T. , Parr Tim , Brameld John M.
Published: December 2020

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) is a gluconeogenic enzyme with a cytosolic (Pck1/PEPCK-C) and mitochondrial (Pck2/PEPCK-M) isoform. Here we investigate the effect of 3-mercaptopicolinic acid (3-MPA), a PEPCK inhibitor, on C2C12 muscle cells. We report that Pck2 mRNA is 50–5000-fold higher than Pck1 during C2C12 myogenesis, indicating Pck2 is the predominant PEPCK isoform. C2C12 cell proliferation was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner following 48 h 3-MPA treatment (0.01–1 mM). C2C12 myogenic differentiation was significantly induced following 3-MPA treatment (0.25, 0.5, 1 mM) from day 0 of differentiation, demonstrated by increased creatine kinase activity, fusion index and myotube diameter; likewise, the myosin heavy chain (MyHC)-IIB isoform (encoded by Myh4) is an indicator of hypertrophy, and both porcine MYH4-promoter activity and endogenous Myh4 mRNA were also significantly induced. High doses (0.5 and/or 1 mM) of 3-MPA reduced mRNA expression of Pck2 and genes associated with serine biosynthesis (Phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase, Phgdh; phosphoserine aminotransferase-1, Psat1) following treatment from days 0 and 4. To conclude, as Pck2/PEPCK-M is the predominant isoform in C2C12 cells, we postulate that 3-MPA promoted myogenic differentiation through the inhibition of PEPCK-M. However, we were unable to confirm that 3-MPA inhibited PEPCK-M enzyme activity as 3-MPA interfered with the PEPCK enzyme assay, particularly at 0.5 and 1 mM.
Myosteatosis as a novel prognostic biomarker after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer
Authors: Yamashita Shimpei , Iwahashi Yuya , Miyai Haruka , Iguchi Takashi , Koike Hiroyuki , Nishizawa Satoshi , Matsumura Nagahide , Hagino Keizo , Kikkawa Kazuro , Kohjimoto Yasuo , Hara Isao
Published: December 2020

This study aims to evaluate the influence of myosteatosis on survival of patients after radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer. We retrospectively identified 230 patients who underwent RC for bladder cancer at our three institutions between 2009 and 2018. Digitized free-hand outlines of the left and right psoas muscles were made on axial non-contrast computed tomography images at level L3. To assess myosteatosis, average total psoas density (ATPD) in Hounsfield Units (HU) was also calculated as an average of bilateral psoas muscle density. We compared cancer-specific survival (CSS) between high ATPD and low ATPD groups and performed cox regression hazard analyses to identify the predictors of CSS. Median ATPD was 44 HU (quartile: 39–47 Hounsfield Units). Two-year CSS rate in overall patients was 76.6%. Patients with low ATPD (< 44 HU) had significantly lower CSS rate (P = 0.01) than patients with high ATPD (≥ 44 HU). According to multivariate analysis, significant independent predictors of poor CSS were: Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥ 1 (P = 0.03), decreasing ATPD (P = 0.03), non-urothelial carcinoma (P = 0.01), pT ≥ 3 (P < 0.01), and pN positive (P < 0.01). In conclusion, myosteatosis (low ATPD) could be a novel predictor of prognosis after RC for bladder cancer.
Occult Hepatitis B virus infection among HIV negative and positive isolated anti-HBc individuals in eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Ayana Desalegn Admassu , Mulu A. , Mihret A. , Seyoum B. , Aseffa A. , Howe R.
Published: December 2020

The absence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and the presence of antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) in the blood of apparently healthy individuals may not indicate the absence of circulating hepatitis B virus (HBV) and might be infectious. Despite the risk of HBV transmission, there has been no report from Ethiopia examining this issue; therefore, this study determined occult HBV infection (OBI) among isolated anti-HBc (IAHBc) HIV negative and HIV positive individuals on ART in eastern Ethiopia. A total of 306 IAHBc individuals were included in this study. DNA was extracted, amplified, and detected from plasma using a commercially available RealTime PCR platform (Abbott m2000rt) following the manufacturer’s instructions. Data were entered into EPI Data version 3.1, cleaned, and analyzed using Stata version 13. Descriptive analysis was used to calculate prevalence, summarize sociodemographic data and other factors. From the 306 IAHBc individuals (184 HIV positive and 122 HIV negative) included in the study, 183 (59.8%) were female of which 142 (77.6%) were within the reproductive age group. DNA extraction, amplified and detection was conducted in 224 individuals. The overall OBI prevalence was 5.8% (5.6% in HIV negative and 6% in HIV positive) among the IAHBc individuals. The HBV DNA concentration among the occult hepatitis B individuals was < 200 IU/mL, indicating a true occult. This study reported the burden of OBI, which pauses a significant public health problem due to the high burden of HBV infection in the country. OBI may cause substantial risk of HBV transmission from blood transfusion, organ transplantation as well as vertical transmission as screening is solely dependent on HBsAg testing.
Gigantol ameliorates CCl4-induced liver injury via preventing activation of JNK/cPLA2/12-LOX inflammatory pathway
Authors: Xue Yaru , Deng Qiangqiang , Zhang Qingli , Ma Zhenghua , Chen Binfan , Yu Xiaolu , Peng Huige , Yao Sheng , Liu Jia , Ye Yang , Pan Guoyu
Published: December 2020

Arachidonic acid (AA) signaling pathway is an important constituent of inflammatory processes. In our previous study, it was found that dihydro-stilbene gigantol relieved hepatic inflammation in mice with CCl4-induced acute liver injury. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of arachidonate metabolic cascade in this process. Our results showed CCl4 activated AA metabolism with the evidence of cPLA2 phosphorylation, which was dependent on the MAPK/JNK activation. Pretreatment with JNK inhibitor SU3327 or gigantol abolished the cPLA2 activation, along with the attenuation of liver damage. Besides, gigantol markedly decreased immune cells activation. Metabolomic analysis revealed that gigantol universally reversed the upregulation of major AA metabolites in injured mouse livers induced by CCl4, especially 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE). Gigantol also decreased the mRNA and protein expression of platelet-, and leukocyte-type 12-lipoxxygenase (LOX) in the liver. Furthermore, pan-LOX inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) and specific 12-LOX inhibitors baicalein and ML351 attenuated the liver injury to the same extent as gigantol. Overall, our study elucidated a comprehensive profile of AA metabolites during hepatic inflammation caused by CCl4, highlighting the role of 12-LOX-12-HETE pathway in this process. And gigantol alleviated liver inflammation partly through inhibiting the JNK/cPLA2/12-LOX pathway.
The impact of chemical engineering and technological advances on managing diabetes: present and future concepts
Authors: Szunerits Sabine , Melinte Sorin , Barras Alexandre , Pagneux Quentin , Voronova Anna , Abderrahmani Amar , Boukherroub Rabah
Published: December 2020

Advanced chemical engineering together with the incorporation of micro- and nanotechnological-based processes are on the way to revolutionize diabetic management.
Water-initiated hydrocarboxylation of terminal alkynes with CO2 and hydrosilane
Authors: Wang Meng-Meng , Lu Sheng-Mei , Paridala Kumaraswamy , Li Can
Published: December 2020

A Cu(ii)–Ni(ii) catalyzed tandem hydrocarboxylation of terminal alkynes with CO2 and hydrosilane is achieved via a hydro-silyloxycarbonylation process.
A novel promising infrared nonlinear optical selenide KAg3Ga8Se14 designed from benchmark AgGaQ2 (Q = S, Se)
Authors: Li Jia-Nuo , Yao Wen-Dong , Li Xiao-Hui , Liu Wenlong , Xue Huai-Guo , Guo Sheng-Ping
Published: December 2020

Introduction of potassium into the structure of AgGaQ2 (Q = S, Se) brings a new nonlinear optical active selenide KAg3Ga8Se14 with a novel structure-type and balanced performance.
A non-perturbative pairwise-additive analysis of charge transfer contributions to intermolecular interaction energies
Authors: Veccham Srimukh Prasad , Lee Joonho , Mao Yuezhi , Horn Paul R. , Head-Gordon Martin
Published: December 2020

A non-perturbative scheme for complete decomposition of energy and charge associated with charge transfer interaction into pairwise additive components.
Hydrogen bond donor functionalized poly(ionic liquid)s for efficient synergistic conversion of CO2 to cyclic carbonates
Authors: Gou Haibin , Ma Xifei , Su Qian , Liu Lei , Ying Ting , Qian Wei , Dong Li , Cheng Weiguo
Published: December 2020

A series of heterogeneous catalysts, combined hydrogen bond donors and ionic liquids, are reported for efficient CO2 cycloaddition with epoxides.
P-Alkynyl functionalized benzazaphospholes as transmetalating agents
Authors: Zhou Daniel Y. , Miura-Akagi Preston M. , McCarty Sierra M. , Guiles Celeste H. , O'Donnell Timothy J. , Yoshida Wesley Y. , Krause Colleen E. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Hughes Russell P. , Cain Matthew F.
Published: December 2020

Exposure of 10π-electron benzazaphosphole 1 to HCl, followed by nucleophilic substitution with the Grignard reagent BrMgCCPh afforded alkynyl functionalized 3 featuring an exocyclic –CC–Ph group with an elongated P–C bond (1.7932(19) Å).
Recent advances in the development of metal–organic framework-basedgas-releasingnanoplatforms for synergistic cancer therapy
Authors: Jin Danni , Zhang Jianan , Huang Youyou , Qin Xiru , Zhuang Jiayi , Yin Wujie , Chen Sijie , Wang Yang , Hua Ping , Yao Yong
Published: December 2020

Gas therapy as a burgeoning and promising research field has attracted considerable attention in biomedicine due to its high therapeutic efficacy, biocompatibility, and biosafety.
Converting molecular layer deposited alucone films into Al2O3/alucone hybrid multilayers by plasma densification
Authors: Santo Domingo Peñaranda Juan , Nisula Mikko , Vandenbroucke Sofie S. T. , Minjauw Matthias M. , Li Jin , Werbrouck Andreas , Keukelier Jonas , Pitillas Martínez Andrea I. , Dendooven Jolien , Detavernier Christophe
Published: December 2020

Alucones are one of the best-known films in the Molecular Layer Deposition (MLD) field. In this work, we prove that alucone/Al2O3 nanolaminate synthesis can be successfully performed by alternating alucone MLD growth with static O2 plasma exposures.
Advanced Li metal anode by fluorinated metathesis on conjugated carbon networks
Authors: Gong Yong Jun , Pyo Seonmi , Kim Hyunjin , Cho Jinil , Yun Heejun , Kim Heebae , Ryu Seokgyu , Yoo Jeeyoung , Kim Youn Sang
Published: December 2020

Conjugated Carbon Networks (CCN) contribute to the stabilization of the Li metal anode surface by fluorinated metathesis.
Inulin ameliorates schizophrenia via modulation of the gut microbiota and anti-inflammation in mice
Authors: Guo Li , Xiao Peilun , Zhang Xiaoxia , Yang Yang , Yang Miao , Wang Ting , Lu Haixia , Tian Hongyan , Wang Hao , Liu Juan
Published: December 2020

The microbiome–gut–brain (MGB) axis, which regulates neurological and cognitive functions, plays an essential role in schizophrenia (SCZ) progression.
Oxidative dehydrogenation of light alkanes with carbon dioxide
Authors: Li Guomin , Liu Ce , Cui Xinjiang , Yang Yanhui , Shi Feng
Published: December 2020

In this critical review, the recent advances of the CO2-assisted catalytic dehydrogenation of light alkanes are summarized.
Multifunctional ZnII–LnIII(Ln = Tb, Dy) complexes based on the amine-phenol ligand with field-induced slow magnetic relaxation, luminescence, and proton conduction
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Nuan , Hu Jun-Jie , Zhang Jia-Li , Liu Sui-Jun , Liao Jin-Sheng , Wen He-Rui
Published: December 2020

Two new isomorphic ZnII–LnIII–ZnIItrinuclear complexes based on the amine-phenol ligand have been prepared.
Controlled synthesis of a PS/Au/ZIF-8 hybrid structure as a SERS substrate for ultrasensitive detection
Authors: Xue Xiangxin , Chen Lei , Wang Chunxu , Qiao Yu , Zhao Cuimei , Wang Hairui , Nie Ping , Li Jiahui , Zhao JinFu , Chang Limin
Published: December 2020

A PS/Au/ZIF-8 hybrid was successfully prepared and used as a SERS active substrate. Meanwhile, the hybrid SERS substrate exhibited good SERS reproducibility, and we successfully obtained an ultrahigh enhancement factor of 1.67 × 106.
A universal signature in the melting of metallic nanoparticles
Authors: Delgado-Callico Laia , Rossi Kevin , Pinto-Miles Raphael , Salzbrenner Pascal , Baletto Francesca
Published: December 2020

We unveil a universal feature in the distribution of the atomic-pair distances that characterizes the melting of monometallic nanoparticles, in vacuum or in a strongly interacting environment, regardless of their size, shape, and composition.
Acceptorless dehydrogenative condensation: synthesis of indoles and quinolines from diols and anilines
Authors: Bellezza Delia , Zaragozá Ramón J. , José Aurell M. , Ballesteros Rafael , Ballesteros-Garrido Rafael
Published: December 2020

Substituted indoles prepared from diols and anilines by acceptorless dehydrogenative condensation.
Effect of methacrylic acid and pendant vinyl groups on the mechanical properties of highly stretchable core–shell nanostructured films deposited from water
Authors: Turton James , Worrall Stephen , Musa Muhamad S. , Milani Amir H. , Yao Yichao , Shaw Peter , Ring David , Saunders Brian R.
Published: December 2020

The mechanical properties of these highly stretchable, water deposited elastomers can be tuned by varying MAA content and vinyl functionalisation.
The “solid-state” ring-opening cationic polymerization of 1,3,5-trioxane: frozen polymerization for suppression of oligomer formation and synthesis of ultrahigh molecular weight polymers
Authors: Suemitsu Chihiro , Kanazawa Arihiro , Aoshima Sadahito
Published: December 2020

Production of polyoxymethylene with higher molecular weights and lower oligomer ratios than those obtained by molten-state polymerization of 1,3,5-trioxane was demonstrated by conducting polymerization in a “solid state”.
Boronic acid based dynamic click chemistry: recent advances and emergent applications
Authors: Chatterjee Saurav , Anslyn Eric V. , Bandyopadhyay Anupam
Published: December 2020

Fundamental progress, current developments, and rapidly growing applications of iminoboronate and salicylhydroxamic–boronate conjugate esters are deliberated.
Defect mitigation using d-penicillamine for efficient methylammonium-free perovskite solar cells with high operational stability
Authors: Yang Jianchao , Tang Weijian , Yuan Ruihan , Chen Yu , Wang Jing , Wu Yihui , Yin Wan-Jian , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Zhang Wen-Hua
Published: December 2020

Iodine vacancy defects in MA-free perovskite are effectively passivated through the interaction between Pb2+ and the functional groups in d-penicillamine, resulting in an impressive efficiency of 22.4% along with excellent operational stability.
Dynamic light scattering microrheology for soft and living materials
Authors: Cai Pamela C. , Krajina Brad A. , Kratochvil Michael J. , Zou Lei , Zhu Audrey , Burgener Elizabeth B. , Bollyky Paul L. , Milla Carlos E. , Webber Matthew J. , Spakowitz Andrew J. , Heilshorn Sarah C.
Published: December 2020

We present a method for using dynamic light scattering in the single-scattering limit to measure the viscoelastic moduli of soft materials.
Counseling Parents at the Time of Diagnosis: Moving Toward Client-Centered Practice
Authors: Luterman David
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a client-centered model of counseling that integrates information and personal adjustment counseling. Research has indicated that audiologists are more comfortable with counseling that is information based than with personal adjustment counseling. The prevailing model of diagnosis appears to be the medical model in which, first, a case history is taken, then testing and, finally, counseling. This model lends itself to audiologist as expert and the counseling as a separate entity based on information and advice. Further research has indicated parents retain little of the information provided in the initial examination because of their heightened emotions. This article presents a client-centered model of diagnosis in which information is provided within an emotionally safe context, enabling the parents to express their feelings and have the ability to control the flow of information. The ultimate purpose of a client-centered model is to empower parents by making them active participants in the diagnostic process rather than passive recipients.

Conclusion

The client-centered model has wide implications for the diagnostic process as well as for the training of students.
Social Media and People With Traumatic Brain Injury: A Metasynthesis of Research Informing a Framework for Rehabilitation Clinical Practice, Policy, and Training
Authors: Brunner Melissa , Hemsley Bronwyn , Togher Leanne , Dann Stephen , Palmer Stuart
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate the experiences of people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and rehabilitation professionals in use of social media after TBI.

Design

Metasynthesis of a multilevel mixed-methods research design was used in the study.

Method

A qualitative metasynthesis of (a) evidence in the literature regarding the use of communication technologies and social media after TBI, (b) Twitter data and network analysis, (c) interviews with people with TBI (
n
= 13), (d) focus groups with TBI rehabilitation professionals (
n
= 11), and (e) a review of current guidance on safe use of social media was conducted.

Results

People with TBI adopt a trial-and-error approach to using social media. Their meaningful use and a sense of connection enable them to develop social media mastery. TBI rehabilitation professionals' concerns regarding potential risks associated with using social media might lead them to restrict social media use during rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Access to proactive training in social media use and a supportive network of rehabilitation professionals, family, and friends can enable people with TBI to develop social media mastery through working collaboratively on social media goals. This metasynthesis of research culminates in an evidence-based protocol for assessing and supporting a person with TBI's social media goals to guide clinical practice and future research in the field.
COVID-19 and Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Practice of Voice and Upper Airway Disorders
Authors: Doll Emerald J. , Braden Maia N. , Thibeault Susan L.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Evaluation and management of voice and upper airway disorders in adults and children, by speech-language pathologists worldwide, have been significantly altered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary to the pathogenic nature of the virus in the respiratory tract and upper airway, it is essential that speech-language pathologists who specialize in these disorders are knowledgeable of current practices to provide evidence-based care while minimizing viral transmission. Understanding how and when SARS-CoV-2 spreads is critical to the development of effective infection prevention within clinical practices.

Method

We established an evidence-based clinical practice guide for clinicians working with voice and upper airway through a comprehensive evaluation of peer-reviewed journals, non–peer-reviewed manuscripts on preprint servers, national health guidelines, and published and online consensus statements and emerging data. Emphasis was placed on risk mitigation for viral transmission via safe clinical practices, including evaluative procedures, therapy including telehealth, personal protective equipment, room, staffing, and distancing considerations.

Results/Conclusions

While knowledge relevant to viral transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is rapidly evolving, there is a paucity of literature specific to the evaluation and treatment of voice and upper airway disorders. Within these confines and given the potentially significant high risk of infection secondary to the nature of COVID-19, we summarize current considerations and recommend best practices that maximize risk mitigation whereby ensuring patient and provider safety.
Low complexity detector for amplitude phase shift keying‐based differential spatial modulation
Authors: Jose Deepak , M Sameer S.
Published: December 2020

Differential spatial modulation (DSM) involves the transmission of information through a combination of phase‐modulated symbols and transmit antenna index. For efficient use of the wireless system resources, the amplitude information is also utilised as a part of the transmitted data in amplitude‐phase shift keying‐DSM (APSK‐DSM). Here some of the information bits get encoded as differential amplitude in each of the transmit antennas, whenever they are activated resulting in better bandwidth efficiency than conventional DSM. However, prevailing detectors for APSK‐DSM have high computational complexity. In this work, the authors proposed a low complexity detector for APSK‐based DSM schemes using compressive sensing and an ‐norm minimisation for detecting the differential amplitude. To decode this amplitude information, the authors have formulated a column by column decomposition of the received symbol in terms of the amplitude‐ and phase‐modulated symbols received from each transmit antenna. The error performance of the proposed detector is nearly identical to that of existing APSK‐based DSM receivers, which use maximum‐likelihood detection but with much lower computational complexity than the latter.
Pre‐filter phase‐locked loop: principles and effects with inter‐harmonic perturbation
Authors: Hou Chuanchuan , Zhu Miao , Chen Yijia , Cai Xu
Published: December 2020

The phase‐locked loop (PLL) is an available synchronisation technique that can extract the fundamental frequency and phase of the grid. Benefited from the filter properties, pre‐filter PLL is widely applied in voltage source inverters (VSIs) to enhance the accuracy of phase extraction. With the consideration of inter‐harmonic perturbation, the principles between pre‐filter PLL and VSI performance as well as the effects of pre‐filter PLL on VSI are investigated in this study. Based on the conventional PLL, the small signal of pre‐filter PLL is proposed. To fully represent the pre‐filter PLL effects, the simplified VSI model is established and the current performance of VSI could be presented by the pre‐filter PLL. From the angles of current total harmonic distortion, the effects of pre‐filter PLL under inter‐harmonic perturbation are clarified. The effects of pre‐filter PLL on VSI are validated under the inter‐harmonic perturbation based on the experiment platform. The results indicate that the current performance of VSI could be improved with the decreased bandwidth of both pre‐filter and PLL, which shows a valuable application reference for the optimised design of VSI.
Amino acid identification of Bombyx mori fibroin cocoon as biomaterial using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Puspita Sartika , Sunarintyas Siti , Anwar Chairil , Mulyawati Ema , HNE Soesatyo Marsetyawan
Published: December 2020

A fibroin is a natural polymer that serves as a biomaterial because of the mechanical properties, biocompatible, biodegradable and amino acid composition. The mechanical properties of fibroin are influenced by crystalline structures of amino acid and are related to the amino acid composition. it can accelerate the wound healing because it promotes the proliferation of exposure tissue and inhibits inflammation. The study aimed to identify amino acid of Bombyx mori (B. mori) fibroin cocoon as biomaterial that was cultivated in Central Java Indonesia. Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS-Water, USA) was employed. This study found that fibroin of B. mori contains seventeen amino acids and the most abundant amino acid is L-Valin 4.81 % (mg kg–1).
Effects of estradiol hormone in menopausal women on anterior disc displacement of temporomandibular joint
Authors: Bayu Rosanto Yosaphat , Soetji Rahajoe Poerwati
Published: December 2020

Anterior disc displacement is a condition when the articular disc is in the anterior normal position. Epidemiological research shows that the prevalence of TMD is higher in women than in men. Women have a dominant hormone that is not owned by men, the hormone estradiol. Estrogen receptors and the hormone progesterone are found in articular joints in humans. Joint structure, extracellular matrix remodeling, and bone volume modification can be affected by sexual hormones. It was thought to cause changes in connective tissue in the TMJ structure. This study aims to determine the effect of the level of the hormone estradiol in menopausal women on anterior temporal disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint. Subjects were 40 postmenopausal women who were examined for temporomandary joints. The diagnosis of anterior disc displacement was made using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC / TMD) method. Subjects were grouped into subjects with normal tempromandibular joints and subjects with anterior disc displacement. Estradiol hormone was examined by the immunoassay method. This study’s conclusion is estradiol hormone in menopausal women with anterior disc displacement is higher than menopausal women without anterior disc displacement.