bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry of magnetic correlations in spin-triplet superconductor UTe2
Authors: Butch Nicholas P. , Ran Sheng , Saha Shanta R. , Neves Paul M. , Zic Mark P. , Paglione Johnpierre , Gladchenko Sergiy , Ye Qiang , Rodriguez-Rivera Jose A.
Published: April 2022

The temperature dependence of the low-energy magnetic excitations in the spin-triplet superconductor UTe2 was measured via inelastic neutron scattering in the normal and superconducting states. These excitations have a peak instensity at 4 meV, follow the Brillouin zone edges near the crystallographic b-axis, obey the paramagnetic structural symmetry, and track the temperature evolution of the heavy fermion bulk magnetic susceptibility. Thus, the imaginary part of the dynamic susceptibility follows the behavior of interband correlations in a hybridized Kondo lattice with an appropriate characteristic energy. These excitations are a lower-dimensional analog of phenomena observed in other Kondo lattice materials, such that their presence is not necessarily due to dominance of ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic correlations. The onset of superconductivity alters the magnetic excitations noticeably on the same energy scales, suggesting that these changes originate from additional electronic structure modification.
CAR T cells expressing a bacterial virulence factor trigger potent bystander antitumour responses in solid cancers
Authors: Jin Chuan , Ma Jing , Ramachandran Mohanraj , Yu Di , Essand Magnus
Published: April 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR T cells) are effective against haematologic malignancies. However, in solid tumours, their potency is hampered by local immunosuppression and by the heterogeneous expression of the antigen that the CAR targets. Here we show that CAR T cells expressing a pluripotent pro-inflammatory neutrophil-activating protein (NAP) from Helicobacter pylori trigger endogenous bystander T-cell responses against solid cancers. In mice with subcutaneous murine pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, neuroblastomas or colon carcinomas, CAR(NAP) T cells led to slower tumour growth and higher survival rates than conventional mouse CAR T cells, regardless of target antigen, tumour type and host haplotype. In tumours with heterogeneous antigen expression, NAP secretion induced the formation of an immunologically ‘hot’ microenvironment that supported dendritic cell maturation and bystander responses, as indicated by epitope spreading and infiltration of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells targeting tumour-associated antigens other than the CAR-targeted antigen. CAR T cells armed with NAP neither increased off-tumour toxicity nor hampered the efficacy of CAR T cells, and hence may have advantageous translational potential.
CRISPR-free base editors with enhanced activity and expanded targeting scope in mitochondrial and nuclear DNA
Authors: Mok Beverly Y. , Kotrys Anna V. , Raguram Aditya , Huang Tony P. , Mootha Vamsi K. , Liu David R.
Published: April 2022

The all-protein cytosine base editor DdCBE uses TALE proteins and a double-stranded DNA-specific cytidine deaminase (DddA) to mediate targeted C•G-to-T•A editing. To improve editing efficiency and overcome the strict TC sequence-context constraint of DddA, we used phage-assisted non-continuous and continuous evolution to evolve DddA variants with improved activity and expanded targeting scope. Compared to canonical DdCBEs, base editors with evolved DddA6 improved mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) editing efficiencies at TC by 3.3-fold on average. DdCBEs containing evolved DddA11 offered a broadened HC (H = A, C or T) sequence compatibility for both mitochondrial and nuclear base editing, increasing average editing efficiencies at AC and CC targets from less than 10% for canonical DdCBE to 15–30% and up to 50% in cell populations sorted to express both halves of DdCBE. We used these evolved DdCBEs to efficiently install disease-associated mtDNA mutations in human cells at non-TC target sites. DddA6 and DddA11 substantially increase the effectiveness and applicability of all-protein base editing.
Proteome metabolome and transcriptome data for three Symbiodiniaceae under ambient and heat stress conditions
Authors: Camp Emma F. , Kahlke Tim , Signal Brandon , Oakley Clinton A. , Lutz Adrian , Davy Simon K. , Suggett David J. , Leggat William P.
Published: April 2022

The Symbiodiniaceae are a taxonomically and functionally diverse family of marine dinoflagellates. Their symbiotic relationship with invertebrates such as scleractinian corals has made them the focus of decades of research to resolve the underlying biology regulating their sensitivity to stressors, particularly thermal stress. Research to-date suggests that Symbiodiniaceae stress sensitivity is governed by a complex interplay between phylogenetic dependent and independent traits (diversity of characteristics of a species). Consequently, there is a need for datasets that simultaneously broadly resolve molecular and physiological processes under stressed and non-stressed conditions. Therefore, we provide a dataset simultaneously generating transcriptome, metabolome, and proteome data for three ecologically important Symbiodiniaceae isolates under nutrient replete growth conditions and two temperature treatments (ca. 26 °C and 32 °C). Elevated sea surface temperature is primarily responsible for coral bleaching events that occur when the coral-Symbiodiniaceae relationship has been disrupted. Symbiodiniaceae can strongly influence their host’s response to thermal stress and consequently it is necessary to resolve drivers of Symbiodiniaceae heat stress tolerance. We anticipate these datasets to expand our understanding on the key genotypic and functional properties that influence the sensitivities of Symbiodiniaceae to thermal stress.
Capturing water vapors from atmospheric air using superporous gels
Authors: Mittal Hemant , Al Alili Ali , Alhassan Saeed M.
Published: April 2022

Dehumidification performance of most polymer desiccant materials is unsatisfactory because of the complex adsorption mechanism on polymer surface and non-porous structure. A viable alternative of solid desiccants, especially existing polymer desiccants, for capturing water vapors from moist air is the super-porous gels (SPGs). The presence of interconnected channels of pores in its structure facilitates the transfer of water molecules to the internal structure of SPGs. Therefore, in this research work, we are proposingN-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and acrylamide (AM) based thermoresponsive SPGs as a potential alternative to the existing conventional solid desiccants. To ensure the formation of interconnected capillary channels, the SPGs were synthesized via gas blowing and foaming technique. Surface morphology of the SPGs was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the other physio-chemical characteristics were studied using different techniques like fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA). Water vapors adsorption properties of the SPGs were explored via adsorption isotherm and kinetics. The adsorption isotherm was found to be of type-III isotherm with a maximum adsorption capacity of 0.75 gw/gadsat 25 °C and 90% relative humidity. Experimental isotherm data correlated well with BET, FHH and GAB isotherm models. Adsorption kinetics suggested that the water vapors diffusion followed intraparticle diffusion and liquid field driving mechanisms collectively. SPGs exhibited very good regeneration and reusability for ten continuous adsorption/desorption cycles. Therefore, the dehumidification efficiency of synthesized SPGs shows that they have potential to replace most of the conventional solid desiccant materials in use.
Characterisation and natural progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection in ferrets
Authors: Au Gough G. , Marsh Glenn A. , McAuley Alexander J. , Lowther Suzanne , Trinidad Lee , Edwards Sarah , Todd Shawn , Barr Jennifer , Bruce Matthew P. , Poole Timothy B. , Brown Sheree , Layton Rachel , Riddell Sarah , Rowe Brenton , Soldani Elisha , Suen Willy W. , Bergfeld Jemma , Bingham John , Payne Jean , Durr Peter A. , Drew Trevor W. , Vasan Seshadri S.
Published: April 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the infectious disease COVID-19, which has rapidly become an international pandemic with significant impact on healthcare systems and the global economy. To assist antiviral therapy and vaccine development efforts, we performed a natural history/time course study of SARS-CoV-2 infection in ferrets to characterise and assess the suitability of this animal model. Ten ferrets of each sex were challenged intranasally with 4.64 × 104 TCID50 of SARS-CoV-2 isolate Australia/VIC01/2020 and monitored for clinical disease signs, viral shedding, and tissues collected post-mortem for histopathological and virological assessment at set intervals. We found that SARS-CoV-2 replicated in the upper respiratory tract of ferrets with consistent viral shedding in nasal wash samples and oral swab samples up until day 9. Infectious SARS-CoV-2 was recovered from nasal washes, oral swabs, nasal turbinates, pharynx, and olfactory bulb samples within 3–7 days post-challenge; however, only viral RNA was detected by qRT-PCR in samples collected from the trachea, lung, and parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Viral antigen was seen exclusively in nasal epithelium and associated sloughed cells and draining lymph nodes upon immunohistochemical staining. Due to the absence of clinical signs after viral challenge, our ferret model is appropriate for studying asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections and most suitable for use in vaccine efficacy studies.
Applicability of the linearized Poisson–Boltzmann theory to contact angle problems and application to the carbon dioxide–brine–solid systems
Authors: Amadu Mumuni , Miadonye Adango
Published: April 2022

In colloidal science and bioelectrostatics, the linear Poisson Boltzmann equation (LPBE) has been used extensively for the calculation of potential and surface charge density. Its fundamental assumption rests on the premises of low surface potential. In the geological sequestration of carbon dioxide in saline aquifers, very low pH conditions coupled with adsorption induced reduction of surface charge density result in low pH conditions that fit into the LPB theory. In this work, the Gouy–Chapman model of the electrical double layer has been employed in addition to the LPBE theory to develop a contact angle model that is a second-degree polynomial in pH. Our model contains the point of zero charge pH of solid surface. To render the model applicable to heterogeneous surfaces, we have further developed a model for the effective value of the point of zero charge pH. The point of zero charge pH model when integrated into our model enabled us to determine the point of zero charge pH of sandstone, quartz and mica using literature based experimental data. In this regard, a literature based thermodynamic model was used to calculate carbon dioxide solubility and pH of aqueous solution. Values of point of zero charge pH determined in this paper agree with reported ones. The novelty of our work stems from the fact that we have used the LPB theory in the context of interfacial science completely different from the classical approach, where the focus is on interparticle electrostatics involving colloidal stabilization.
Impact of weather changes on hospital admissions for hypertension
Authors: Bauer Frederic , Lindtke Janine , Seibert Felix , Rohn Benjamin , Doevelaar Adrian , Babel Nina , Schlattmann Peter , Bertram Sebastian , Zgoura Panagiota , Westhoff Timm H.
Published: April 2022

Blood pressure (BP) shows a seasonal variation with higher levels at lower temperatures. Many hypertensives, however, report on BP disturbances rather in association with acutely changing weather conditions than with absolute temperatures. To date, the impact of changing meteorological parameters on hypertensive episodes remains elusive. We performed a retrospective time series regression analysis on 203,703 patients in three hospitals in Germany between 2010 and 2018, of whom 7362 patients were admitted for hypertensive disease. Numbers of daily admissions for hypertension were associated with metereological data obtained from three nearby weather stations. Data comprised temperature (mean, maximal, minimal and range within 24 h), athmospheric pressure, and precipitation. Changes of these parameters were calculated over a two and three day period. There was an inverse correlation between maximal daily temperature and the number of admissions for hypertensive disease, which remained significant both after adjustment for seasonality and week day in a spline model and in a constrained distributed lag model. A decrease of maximal temperature by 5 °C was associated with a 3% increase of risk for admission for hypertension and vice versa. There were no significant effects of precipitation and athmospheric pressure on the number of admissions. With regard to all observed metereological parameters, neither the change within two, nor within three days was consistently associated with the number of daily admissions. High temperatures are associated with lower numbers of hypertensive episodes requiring hospital admission. In contrast to the subjective perception of many hypertensive patients, however, acutely changing weather conditions are not associated with a higher risk of hypertensive emergency.
Symptoms of depression change with olfactory function
Authors: Sabiniewicz Agnieszka , Hoffmann Leonie , Haehner Antje , Hummel Thomas
Published: April 2022

Olfactory loss is associated with symptoms of depression. The present study, conducted on a large cohort of mostly dysosmic patients, aimed to investigate whether improvement in olfactory performance would correspond with a decrease in depression severity. In 171 participants (157 dysosmic), we assessed olfactory function and severity of depression before and after an average interval of 11 months, with many patients showing improvement in olfactory function. Separate analyses were conducted for (a) the whole group of patients and (b) the group of dysosmic patients using both classic and Bayesian approaches. For odor identification, Student t test demonstrated that the whole sample improved consistently, especially within the group of dysosmic patients. The dysosmic group also improved in odor threshold and overall olfactory function. Pearson correlation showed that an increase in olfactory function was associated with a decrease in depression severity, particularly in dysosmic patients. To conclude, the present results indicate that symptoms of depression change with olfactory function in general and odor identification in particular.
National trends in ideal cardiovascular health among adults in Bhutan from three cross-sectional surveys in 2007, 2014, and 2019
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: April 2022

The study aimed to estimate the prevalence, distribution, and correlates of ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) among individuals (20–69 years) across three cross-sectional surveys in 2007, 2014 and 2019 in Bhutan. Cross-sectional data were analysed from 9712 individuals (20–69 years, mean age = 37.6 years) who participated in the 2007, 2014 or 2019 Bhutan STEPS surveys, had complete measurement of CVH metrics, and had no history of a cardiovascular disease in 2014 and 2019. Ideal CVH measures included non-smoking, healthy diet, physical activity, body mass index (< 23 kg/m2), blood pressure < 120/ < 80 mmHg, total cholesterol < 200 mg/dL, and fasting blood glucose < 100 mg/dL). The prevalence of five to seven ideal CVH metrics increased from 11.6% in 2007 to 37.9% in 2019. Trend analyses showed that ideal physical activity, ideal total cholesterol, ideal blood pressure, and ideal fasting glucose increased from 2007 to 2019, while ideal fruit and vegetable intake, ideal smoking, and ideal body mass index decreased from 2007 to 2019. Five to seven ideal CVH metrics, 0–7 ideal CVH metrics, and 0–14 poor, intermediate, and ideal CVH metrics increased from 2007 to 2019. In the adjusted logistic regression analysis, older age decreased the odds of having 5–7 ideal CVH metrics in all three study years. Male sex increased the odds, and employment decreased the odds of 5–7 ideal CVH metrics in 2007, and urban residence increased the odds of 5–7 ideal CVH metrics in 2014 and decreased the odds in 2019. The proportion of meeting 5–7 ideal CVH metrics increased in Bhutan. Primary and secondary prevention programmes must be strengthened to improve CVH in Bhutan, considering identified associated factors.
Adsorptive colorimetric determination of chromium(VI) ions at ultratrace levels using amine functionalized mesoporous silica
Authors: Ghosh Rajesh , Gopalakrishnan Saranya , Renganathan T. , Pushpavanam S.
Published: April 2022

There is an urgent need for a rapid, affordable and sensitive analytical method for periodic monitoring of heavy metals in water bodies. Herein, we report for the first time a versatile method for ultratrace level metal detection based on colorimetric sensing. The method integrates preconcentration using a nanomaterial with a colorimetric assay performed directly on the metal-enriched nanomaterial surface. This method circumvents the need for tedious sample pre-processing steps and the complex development of colorimetric probes, thereby reducing the complexity of the analytical procedure. The efficacy of the proposed method was demonstrated for chromium(VI) ions detection in water samples. Amine functionalized mesoporous silica (AMS) obtained from a one-pot synthesis was utilized as a pre-concentration material. The structural and chemical analysis of AMS was conducted to confirm its physico-chemical properties. The pre-concentration conditions were optimized to maximise the colorimetric signal. AMS exhibited a discernible colour change from white to purple (visible to the naked eye) for trace Cr(VI) ions concentration as low as 0.5 μg L−1. This method shows high selectivity for Cr(VI) ions with no colorimetric signal from other metal ions. We believe our method of analysis has a high scope for de-centralized monitoring of organic/inorganic pollutants in resource-constrained settings.
Intestinal bacteria flora changes in patients with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia with or without wheezing
Authors: Jiang Yonghong , Bao Chunxiu , Zhao Xiaoyang , Chen Yiliu , Song Yao , Xiao Zhen
Published: April 2022

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infection is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia in children. Furthermore, many children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) have recurrent wheezing and reduced small airway function after their clinical symptoms have resolved, eventually leading to asthma. MPP can trigger immune disorders and systemic inflammatory responses. Hence, the intestine is the largest immune organ of the body. Therefore, we sought to investigate whether the alteration of intestinal flora is correlated with the development of wheezing in children with MPP. We collected 30 healthy children as group A, 50 children with nonwheezing MPP as group B, and 50 children with wheezing MPP as group C. We found that the percentage of eosinophil cells (EC) was significantly higher in group C than that in group B for routine blood tests and serum inflammatory factors. The serum cytokines, including IL-4, IL-17, TNF-α, and TGF-β, were significantly higher in group C than in group B. In addition, the level of IL-10 was significantly lower in group C than in group B. The distribution characteristics of intestinal flora strains in children with MPP were detected by sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. There were differences in the abundance of intestinal flora between children with MPP and healthy children, with lower abundance of Ruminococcus flavefaciens, Clostridium butyricum, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium in the intestine of children with MPP compared to healthy children. The abundance of Ruminococcus flavefaciens and Clostridium butyricum was significantly lower in the intestine of children with wheezing MPP compared to children without wheezing MPP. In the correlation analysis between children with MPP and inflammatory factors, Ruminococcus flavefaciens was found to be negatively correlated with IL-17. Clostridium butyricum was negatively correlated with L-4, IL-17, TNF-α, and TGF-β; however, it positively correlated with IL-10. Thus, it was concluded that alterations in intestinal flora play a crucial role in the immune response to MPP, where a significant decline in intestinal Ruminococcus flavefaciens and Clostridium butyricum leads to an exacerbation of the inflammatory responses, which may promote the development of children with wheezing MPP.
Impact of the biopsy forceps size on histological analysis and performances of the histological scoring systems
Authors: Bianchi Elettra , Najm Aurélie , Vanbelle Sophie , Le Goff Benoit , Mutijima Eugène , Kaiser Marie-Joëlle , Malaise Michel , Hauzeur Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2022

To improve the reliability of the quantitative scorings of the synovial biopsies, we evaluate whether diameter of arthroscopic forceps influences histological quality of synovial tissue and/or histological scores and we compare the intra- and inter-observer performances of the main histological scoring systems. Synovial biopsies were retrieved in the same part of the joint using 1, 2 and 4 mm diameters grasping forceps. After standard staining and immunohistochemistry with anti-CD68 antibody, slides were scored blindly by 2 independent experienced operators for tissue quality and with Krenn score, de Bois-Tak score and CD68 semi-quantitative score. Four samples did not pass quality control. No difference other than a higher number of vessels in the 4 mm versus 2 mm forceps (p = 0.01) was found among the 3 groups. CD68 score was significantly higher in the 2 versus 4 mm forceps (p = 0.009). So we concluded that only vessels quantification and CD68 semi-quantitative score seemed affected by the forceps size. The intra-reader agreement was variable across observers and features: 0.78 (0.66–0.87) for the Krenn scoring system, 0.89 (0.78–0.97) for the de Bois-Tak score and 0.93 (0.81–1.00) for the CD68 score. Interobserver reliabilities of Krenn score, de Bois-Tak score and CD68 scores were satisfactory: 0.95 (0.92–0.99) for Krenn, 0.98 (0.96–0.99) for de Bois-Tak and 0.80 (0.71–0.89) for CD68.
Hair cortisol concentration reflects the life cycle and management of grey wolves across four European populations
Authors: Pereira Patrícia , Fandos Esteruelas Núria , Nakamura Mónia , Rio-Maior Helena , Krofel Miha , Di Blasio Alessia , Zoppi Simona , Robetto Serena , Llaneza Luis , García Emilio , Oleaga Álvaro , López-Bao José Vicente , Fayos Martinez Manena , Stavenow Jasmine , Ågren Erik O. , Álvares Francisco , Santos Nuno
Published: April 2022

The grey wolf (Canis lupus) persists in a variety of human-dominated landscapes and is subjected to various legal management regimes throughout Europe. Our aim was to assess the effects of intrinsic and methodological determinants on the hair cortisol concentration (HCC) of wolves from four European populations under different legal management. We determined HCC by an enzyme-linked immune assay in 259 hair samples of 133 wolves from the Iberian, Alpine, Dinaric-Balkan, and Scandinavian populations. The HCC showed significant differences between body regions. Mean HCC in lumbar guard hair was 11.6 ± 9.7 pg/mg (range 1.6–108.8 pg/mg). Wolves from the Dinaric-Balkan and Scandinavian populations showed significantly higher HCC than Iberian wolves, suggesting that harvest policies could reflected in the level of chronic stress. A significant negative relationship with body size was found. The seasonal, sex and age patterns are consistent with other studies, supporting HCC as a biomarker of chronic stress in wolves for a retrospective time frame of several weeks. Our results highlight the need for standardization of sampling and analytical techniques to ensure the value of HCC in informing management at a continental scale.
Comparison of endogenous amino acid losses in broilers when offered nitrogen-free diets with differing ratios of dextrose to corn starch
Authors: Zhou Huajin , Wu Wei , Mahmood Tahir , Chen Yanhong , Xu Yanwei , Wang Youli , Yuan Jianmin
Published: April 2022

The nitrogen-free diet (NFD) method is widely used to determine the ileal endogenous amino acids (IEAAs) losses in broiler chickens. Starch and dextrose are the main components of NFD, but the effects of their proportion in the NFD on the IEAAs and the digestive physiology of broilers are still unclear. This preliminary study aims to explore the best proportion of glucose and corn starch in NFD to simulate the normal intestinal physiology of broilers, which helps to improve the accuracy of IEAAs determination. For this purpose, 28-day-old broiler chickens were allocated to five treatment groups for a 3-day trial, including a control group and four NFD groups. The ratios of dextrose to corn starch (D/CS) in the four NFD were 1.00, 0.60, 0.33, and 0.14, respectively. Results noted that NFD significantly reduced serum IGF-1, albumin, and uric acid levels compared with the control (P < 0.05), except there was no difference between group D/CS 0.33 and the control for IGF-1. The increased Asp, Thr, Ser, Glu, Gly, Ala, Val, Ile, Leu, His, Tyr, Arg, and Pro contents of IEAAs were detected in broilers fed the NFD with a higher ratio of D/CS (1.00 and 0.60) compared to the lower ratio of D/CS (0.33 and 0.14). Moreover, ileal digestibility of dry matter and activity of digestive enzymes increased as the D/CS elevated (P < 0.001). Further investigation revealed that the number of ileal goblet cells and Mucin-2 expression were higher in the group with D/CS at 1.00 when compared with group D/CS 0.33 and the control (P < 0.05). Microbiota analysis showed that NFD reshaped the gut microbiota, characterized by decreased microbial diversity and lower abundance of Bacteroidetes, and increased Proteobacteria (P < 0.05). Our results indicate that a higher D/CS ratio (1.00 and 0.60) in NFD increases IEAAs by promoting digestive enzymes and mucin secretion. However, the excessive proportion of starch (D/CS = 0.14) in NFD was unsuitable for the chicken to digest. The chickens fed with NFD with the D/CS ratio at 0.33 were closer to the normal digestive physiological state. Thus, the ratio of D/CS in NFD at 0.33 is more appropriate to detect IEAAs of broiler chickens.
Relationship of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies with Vitamin D and inflammatory markers in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Latifi-Pupovci Hatixhe , Namani Sadie , Pajaziti Artina , Ahmetaj-Shala Blerina , Ajazaj Lindita , Kotori Afrim , Haxhibeqiri Valdete , Gegaj Valentin , Bunjaku Gramoz
Published: April 2022

Several studies have found an association of COVID-19 disease severity with Vitamin D deficiency and higher levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgGs. The aim of this study was to determine whether levels of Vitamin D and “inflammatory state” influence the magnitude of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgGs levels in COVID-19 patients. For this purpose, in 67 patients levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG were measured in week 4 whereas in 52 patients levels of Vitamin D were measured in week 1 after symptom onset. We found that low Vitamin D levels were significantly associated with age and disease severity whereas there was a trend without significance, towards negative correlation of Vitamin D with anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG were significantly higher in older ages, patients with severe disease, diabetes and those who received corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy. There was a positive correlation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG with IL-6, CRP, LDH, ESR and with percentages of granulocytes. In conclusion, Vitamin D and anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG share common parameters associated with inflammatory state. However, even though Vitamin D protects against severe forms of COVID-19 it could not directly affect anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG production.
Comparison of CT findings and histopathological characteristics of pulmonary cryptococcosis in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients
Authors: Wang Dong-xu , Zhang Qing , Wen Qiu-ting , Ding Guo-xu , Wang Yu-guang , Du Feng-xia , Zhang Tian-yu , Zheng Xiao-yang , Cong Hou-yi , Du You-li , Sang Jun-zhi , Wang Ming-da , Zhang Shan-xin
Published: April 2022

Pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC) is a common fungal infectious disease, and infection can occur in patients with any immune function. To better understand PC, we compared the CT findings and histopathological results in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. The clinical data of 68 patients with PC were collected retrospectively and divided into the immunocompetent group and immunocompromised group. The clinical characteristics, CT manifestations and histopathological characteristics of the two groups of patients were compared. Forty-two patients (61.8%) were immunocompetent, and 26 patients (38.2%) were immunocompromised. Compared with immunocompromised patients, 57.14% (24/42) of immunocompetent patients were asymptomatic (p = 0.002). Compared with immunocompetent patients, cough (14/26, 53.9%) and fever (13/26, 50.0%) were the main symptoms in immunocompromised patients (p = 0.044, p = 0.007). Nodular lesions (97.6%, 41/42) were the most common CT type in immunocompetent patients, and the CT characteristic was a single lesion (25/42, 59.5%); the main histopathological type was nodular fibrogranuloma (30/42, 71.4%), and the main histopathological characteristic was inflammatory granuloma (31/42, 73.81%) formed by macrophage phagocytosis of Cryptococcus. Consolidation (15/26, 57.7%) was more common in the CT type of immunocompromised patients. Multiple lesions (24/26, 92.31%), air bronchial signs (19/26, 73.081%) and cavities (9/26, 34.62%) were the main CT characteristics. The mucinous colloid type (19/26, 73.1%) was its main histopathological type, which was mainly characterized by a small amount of surrounding inflammatory cell infiltration (17/26, 65.4%). There were significant differences in the classification and characteristics of CT and pathology between the two groups (p < 0.05). Through the CT manifestations and histopathological characteristics of PC under different immune function states, it was found that immune function has a significant impact on the CT manifestations and histopathological characteristics of patients with PC.
Author Correction: Altered gut microbiome and autism like behavior are associated with parental high salt diet in male mice
Authors: Afroz Kazi Farhana , Reyes Noah , Young Kobe , Parikh Kajal , Misra Varsha , Alviña Karina
Published: April 2022

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Higher-order motif analysis in hypergraphs
Authors: Lotito Quintino Francesco , Musciotto Federico , Montresor Alberto , Battiston Federico
Published: April 2022

A deluge of new data on real-world networks suggests that interactions among system units are not limited to pairs, but often involve a higher number of nodes. To properly encode higher-order interactions, richer mathematical frameworks such as hypergraphs are needed, where hyperedges describe interactions among an arbitrary number of nodes. Here we systematically investigate higher-order motifs, defined as small connected subgraphs in which vertices may be linked by interactions of any order, and propose an efficient algorithm to extract complete higher-order motif profiles from empirical data. We identify different families of hypergraphs, characterized by distinct higher-order connectivity patterns at the local scale. We also propose a set of measures to study the nested structure of hyperedges and provide evidences of structural reinforcement, a mechanism that associates higher strengths of higher-order interactions for the nodes that interact more at the pairwise level. Our work highlights the informative power of higher-order motifs, providing a principled way to extract higher-order fingerprints in hypergraphs at the network microscale.
Influence of anisotropy on heterogeneous nucleation of gold nanorod assemblies
Authors: Göppert Ann-Kathrin , González-Rubio Guillermo , Cölfen Helmut
Published: April 2022

This study analysed for the first time heterogeneous nucleation with anisotropic nanoparticles as a model system for non-spherical building units.
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 alleviates the obesity of ob/ob mice and improves their intestinal microbiota and bile acid metabolism
Authors: Zeng Zhonghua , Zhou Yuanhao , Xu Yibin , Wang Song , Wang Baikui , Zeng Zihan , Wang Qi , Ye Xiaolin , Jin Lu , Yue Min , Tang Li , Zou Peng , Zhao Pengwei , Li Weifen
Published: April 2022

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 can ameliorate obesity in male ob/ob mice by reshaping the intestinal microbial composition, changing metabolites, with deep correlation between phenotypes, and regulating bile acid metabolism via the FXR signaling pathway.
Persistence of symmetry-protected Dirac points at the surface of the topological crystalline insulator SnTe upon impurity doping
Authors: Arroyo-Gascón Olga , Baba Yuriko , Cerdá Jorge I. , de Abril Oscar , Martínez Ruth , Domínguez-Adame Francisco , Chico Leonor
Published: April 2022

Topologically protected surface states in semi-infinite SnTe are robust against Sb doping and preserve their spin texture, whereas in slabs they show a gap. These states are studied using first-principles and continuum model calculations.
Thermoresponsive oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate based copolymers: composition and comonomer effect
Authors: Li Qian , Wang Lezhi , Chen Feihong , Constantinou Anna P. , Georgiou Theoni K.
Published: April 2022

Thermoresponsive polymers based on oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG) methyl ether methacrylate monomers from unimers to micelles to precipitation.
Influencing factors and characterization methods of nanoparticles regulating amyloid aggregation
Authors: Li Lingyi , Liu Jianhui , Li Xinyue , Tang Yuanhan , Shi Changxin , Zhang Xin , Cui Yuming , Wang Linlin , Xu Wenlong
Published: April 2022

This review included four factors that may influence the regulation of amyloid aggregation by nanoparticles and the characterization methods used in such studies.
In situ generated Fe3C embedded Fe–N-doped carbon nanozymes with enhanced oxidase mimic activity for total antioxidant capacity assessment
Authors: Li Rui , Qiao Xiaohong , Ma Huijun , Li Hanmei , Li Cong , Jin Lihua
Published: April 2022

The synthesis of multifunctional and high catalytic performance Fe3C embedded Fe–N-doped carbon nanozymes for the assay of total antioxidant capacity in food samples.
Enhancing scanning electrochemical microscopy's potential to probe dynamic co-culture systems via hyperspectral assisted-imaging
Authors: Goines Sondrica , Deng Mingchu , Glasscott Matthew W. , Leung Justin W. C. , Dick Jeffrey E.
Published: April 2022

Overcoming challenges associated with biological imaging by correlating hyperspectral imaging and scanning electrochemical microscopy; this powerful combination provides unambiguous determination of cell boundaries for studying cellular dynamics.
Facile access to chiral chromanone-2-carboxylic acids enabled by rhodium-catalyzed chemo- and enantioselective hydrogenation
Authors: Nie Zhuang , Liu Song , Wang Tonglin , Shen Zhanhong , Nie Huifang , Xi Jiayue , Zhang Dongxu , Zheng Xiaohui , Zhang Shengyong , Yao Lin
Published: April 2022

Rh-catalyzed highly chemo- and enantioselective hydrogenation of chromone-2-carboxylic acids was first successfully established and an enantio-induction mode was elucidated by DFT calculation.
Single Ni active sites with a nitrogen and phosphorus dual coordination for an efficient CO2 reduction
Authors: Yang Xiao , Cheng Jun , Yang Xian , Xu Yang , Sun Weifu , Liu Niu , Zhou Junhu
Published: April 2022

Schematic illustration. Atomically dispersed Ni-based catalysts with a N/P dual coordination for CO2 reduction.
Honeycomb-like active microswarms for magnetically tunable cascade enzyme catalysis
Authors: Guo Ruirui , Dong Liu  , Huang Yanjie , Wang Bin , Dong Jian , Lu Yuan
Published: April 2022

Magnetic honeycomb-like active microswarms were steered in complicated microchannels and induced cascade biocatalysis at localized regions under 3D magnetic control.
Electric field-assisted MnO2 nanomaterials for rapid capture and in situ delivery of circulating tumour cells
Authors: Li Juan , Xia Yu , Zhou Fuling , He Rongxiang , Chen Bolei , Guo Shishang
Published: April 2022

A highly integrated MnO2-based device combined rapid capture, in-situ delivery, and efficient release of cancer cells.
Solvent-controlled regioselective C(5)–H/N(1)–H bond alkylations of indolines and C(6)–H bond alkylations of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines with para-quinone methides
Authors: Akyildiz Volkan , Lafzi Ferruh , Kilic Haydar , Saracoglu Nurullah
Published: April 2022

Solvent-switched regioselective N-alkylations (in HFIP : DCM) and C5-alkylations (in HFIP) of indolines using a broad range of p-QMs have been developed. The protocol successfully worked for the C6-alkylations of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines.
Direct access to α,α-chlorofluoro arylketones via mild electrophilic heterohalogenation of arylalkynes
Authors: Lin Chuyuan , Chen Lu , Lin Huaping , Li Yibiao , Shen Chengshuo , Zhang Min
Published: April 2022

By employing a compatible system of selectfluor and NaCl, a new practical approach for direct access to aryl α,α-chlorofluoro arylketones via mild electrophilic heterohalogenation of arylalkynes is presented.
Transition-metal-free oxindole synthesis: quinone–K2CO3 catalyzed intramolecular radical cyclization
Authors: Wu Shiyuan , Zhao Qiuting , Wu Chao , Wang Chengming , Lei Hao
Published: April 2022

A highly efficient transition-metal-free radical cyclization route for the synthesis of oxindoles was developed, using the readily available 9,10-phenanthrenequinone (PQ) catalyst together with K2CO3.
Resolution of aryl-H-phosphinates applied in the synthesis of P-stereogenic compounds including a Brønsted acid NMR solvating agent
Authors: Varga Bence , Vincze Daniella , Pető Hajnalka , Buna Levente , Pauló János , Holczbauer Tamás , Mátravölgyi Béla , Hegedűs László , Fogassy Elemér , Keglevich György , Bagi Péter
Published: April 2022

An enantioseparation method for the preparation of P-stereogenicH-phosphinates was elaborated. In stereoselective reactions, various chiral P-stereogenic compounds were prepared and their applications as chiral NMR solvating agents were assessed.
One-step chemical vapor deposition fabrication of Ni@NiO@graphite nanoparticles for the oxygen evolution reaction of water splitting
Authors: Yang Meijun , Zhu Hongyu , Zheng Yingqiu , Zhang Chitengfei , Luo Guoqiang , Xu Qingfang , Li Qizhong , Zhang Song , Goto Takashi , Tu Rong
Published: April 2022

Ni@NiO@graphite nanoparticles with excellent OER performance were synthesized by a one-step chemical vapor deposition process.
Predicting Which Children Will Normalize Without Intervention for Speech Sound Disorders
Authors: To Carol Kit Sum , McLeod Sharynne , Sam Ka Lam , Law Thomas
Published: April 2022

Purpose:

The speech of some children does not follow a typical normalization trajectory, and they develop speech sound disorders (SSD). This study investigated predictive correlates of speech sound normalization in children who were at risk of SSD.

Method:

A prospective population cohort study of 845 Cantonese-speaking preschoolers was conducted over 2.5 years to examine (a) children who resolved nonadult realizations of consonants (normalized) and (b) those who had persisting speech sound difficulties (did not normalize). From these 845, a sample of 82 participants characterized as having SSD (1.25
SD
s below the mean in a standardized speech assessment, with a delay in initial consonant acquisition or with one or more atypical errors) was followed for 2 years at 6-month intervals or until the completion of their initial consonant inventory. Data from 43 children who did not receive speech-language pathology services were analyzed with survival analysis to model time to normalization while controlling for covariates. The target event (outcome) was the completion of their initial consonant inventory.

Results:

Under the no-intervention condition, the estimated median time to normalization was 6.59 years of age. Children who were more likely to normalize or normalized in a shorter time were stimulable to all errors and more intelligible as rated by caregivers using the Intelligibility in Context Scale. Those who showed atypical error patterns did not necessarily take longer to normalize. Similarly, expressive language ability was not significantly associated with speech normalization.

Conclusions:

Stimulability and intelligibility were more useful prognostic factors of speech normalization when compared to (a)typicality of error patterns and expressive language ability. Children with low intelligibility and poor stimulability should be prioritized for speech-language pathology services given that their speech errors are less likely to resolve naturally.
Matrix modelling and optimisation calculation method for large‐scale integrated We‐Energy
Authors: Zhang Ning , Yang Lingxiao , Sun Qiuye , Li Yushuai
Published: April 2022

We‐Energy (WE), as an important energy unit with full duplex and multi‐energy carriers in the integrated energy system, uses the coupling matrix to connect the network‐side and demand‐side energy. However, the coupling matrix of WE is very hard to be formulated directly due to the complicated internal structure and the flexibility of operation mode. This paper proposes a multi‐step method for the modelling of WE. According to the method, the conversion process in the WE can be separated into several steps and the WE model can be built by the coupling matrix in each step. Then, the WE model is extended by considering the renewable energy, location of storage and different types of demand response. Because of the non‐linearity caused by the dispatch factors, the computational complexity increases greatly for solving the optimal scheduling issue of the WE. In order to reduce the computational burden, the variable substitution is added in the proposed modelling method. The results of simulation cases are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed modelling and calculation method.
Effect of Soil Water Content and Soil Texture on Phytophthora cinnamomic Infection on Cork and Holm Oak
Authors: Moreira Ana Cristina , Rodrigues Abel
Published: April 2022

Phytophthora cinnamomi is an important soil borne plant pathogen, associated to decline of cork and holm oak stands in Iberian Peninsula. This decline results from a complex of biotic and abiotic interactions culminating in root infection. Field observations in cork and holm oak sites suggested an enhancement of soil moisture and texture in decline processes. Greenhouse assays were developed to evaluate the impact of soil moisture and texture on the severity of root infection on both species. Seedlings were potted in P. cinnamomi infested soils with different textures (loamy-sand, clay and silty- loam) combined with different watering regimes (flooding, normal irrigation, and irrigation till wilting and field capacity). The impact of P. cinnamomi infection was assessed through plant biomass, water consumption and root severity. The infection caused either losses of plant biomass (root and shoot) as plants water consumption, in both species, depending on soil moisture and texture. Holm oak plants were more susceptible to P. cinnamomi infection than cork oak, with higher mortality and root degradation. To minimize the risk of infection, watering managing appeared to be an essential condition to optimize plant growth and survival taking also into account the texture and moisture of the soil.
Der andere Blick
Authors: Plath Matthias
Published: April 2022

Pflanzen befriedigen unsere Bedürfnisse/Begierden nach Nahrung, Heilung, Rausch und Schönheit. Die Vielfalt der Farben und Formen der Pflanzenwelt beeinflusst uns Menschen subtil aber intensiv. Die unmittelbare Verbindung zum Leben und zum Lebendigen finden wir in der Pflanze.
Outcomes of Surgery for intramuscular Haemangiomas in the Extremities
Authors: Zyluk Andrzej
Published: April 2022

Purpose The objective of this case-series study was an assessment of outcomes of surgery for intramuscular haemangiomas in the extremities.

Patients and Methods Three women and one man with a mean age of 28 (23 – 34) years were operated on for intramuscular haemangiomas in the extremities, 3 in the forearms, and 1 in the calf. Three of them, 2 after resection of tumours from the forearm, and one after resection of the tumour in the calf, were available for follow-up assessment at an average of 1.5 (1 – 2) years after surgery. For patients with the tumour in the forearm, preoperative and at the follow-up examination pain was registered with use of the numeric rank scale (NRS), grip strength with the Jamar dynamometer, and function of the extremity with the quickDASH questionnaire. In the patient with the lower limb involvement, pain at the operation site, and efficiency (dexterity) of gait were evaluated.

Results All 3 patients with a follow-up examination reported significant reduction of pain. With regard to grip strength and hand function, one patient had significant improvement, whereas in the other, there were no real changes compared to preoperative. The patient with the calf involvement had no symptoms and walked normally. Over the follow-up period, no recurrence was noted.

Conclusion The results of this small case-series study show that operative treatment of these rare tumours is safe and effective, however, it may be challenging in some cases.
Pulmonale Hypertonie und Polycythaemia vera
Authors: Westhoff Michael , Litterst Patric , Kreppein Ursula
Published: April 2022

Einleitung Die Polycythaemia vera (PV) ist eine seltene Ursache einer Pulmonalen Hypertonie (PH) Klasse 5 nach Nizza-2018. Anhand von Kasuistiken werden die unterschiedlichen Verläufe, zum einen mit primärer Manifestation einer PH und nachfolgend einer PV, zum anderen mit Entwicklung einer PH im Rahmen einer PV, dargestellt.

Kasuistiken 1) Bei Erstkontakt 75-jährige Patientin mit progredienter Dyspnoe und Nachweis einer Belastungs-PH im RHK. Im Verlauf Entwicklung einer Ruhe-PH bis 70 mmHg systolisch trotz initialer Mono- und nachfolgend dualer Therapie der PH. Nach 5 Jahren Diagnose einer Polycythaemia vera und Einleitung einer Hydroxycarbamid-Therapie und nachfolgend auch Aderlässe. Im weiteren Verlauf zunehmende kardiale Dekompensation und Versterben. 2) 74-jährige Patientin bei Diagnosestellung einer chronisch megakaryozytären-granulozytären Myelose. Nach 7 Jahren Nachweis einer Polycythaemia vera (V617F-Mutation im JAK2-Gen) und einer monoklonalen Gammopathie. Bei Splenomegalie Milzbestrahlung und nach 1 Jahr Therapie mit Ruxolitinib. 2 Jahre später, bei zunehmender Dyspnoe, Nachweis einer pulmonalen Hypertonie (CTEPH) mit einem PA-mean von 43 mmHg und PVR von 4,5 WE. Unter Antikoagulation und Riociguattherapie nur passager Besserung der Belastbarkeit und der PA-Drucke. Innerhalb eines Jahres Entwicklung einer zunehmend restriktiven Ventilationsstörung mit Hypoxämie und einer Herzinsuffizienz (EF 45 %), mit Rechtsherzdekompensation und kardio-renalem Syndrom. Unter Dialyse nur kurzfristige Rekompensation, sodass die Patientin verstarb.

Diskussion Die Kasuistiken zeichnen sich durch eine Kombination aus PV und PH, bei unterschiedlicher zeitlicher Sequenz, sowie eine nur geringe passagere Beeinflussbarkeit durch eine PH-spezifische Therapie, mit nachfolgend progredienter kardialer Dekompensation aus. Sie spiegeln somit die verschiedenen Ätiologien, klinischen Manifestationsformen und die geringe therapeutische Beeinflussbarkeit einer PH bei myeloproliferativen Erkrankungen wider. Unklar ist weiterhin der Stellenwert einer PH-spezifischen Therapie insbesondere in Anbetracht unterschiedlicher Pathomechanismen in der Genese der PH.

Schlussfolgerung Patienten mit myeloproliferativen Erkrankungen bedürfen eines Screenings auf eine PH. Auch im Verlauf einer PH kann sich eine myeloproliferative Erkrankung demaskieren oder entwickeln. Die therapeutische Beeinflussbarkeit der PH ist eingeschränkt.