bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The rubber hand illusion is a fallible method to study ownership of prosthetic limbs
Authors: Zbinden Jan , Ortiz-Catalan Max
Published: February 2021

Enabling sensory feedback in limb prostheses can reverse a damaged body image caused by amputation. The rubber hand illusion (RHI) is a popular paradigm to study ownership of artificial limbs and potentially useful to assess sensory feedback strategies. We investigated the RHI as means to induce ownership of a prosthetic hand by providing congruent visual and tactile stimuli. We elicited tactile sensations via electric stimulation of severed afferent nerve fibres in four participants with transhumeral amputation. Contrary to our expectations, they failed to experience the RHI. The sensations we elicited via nerve stimulation resemble tapping as opposed to stroking, as in the original RHI. We therefore investigated the effect of tapping versus stroking in 30 able-bodied subjects. We found that either tactile modality equally induced ownership in two-thirds of the subjects. Failure to induce the RHI in the intact hand of our participants with amputation later confirmed that they form part of the RHI-immune population. Conversely, these participants use neuromusculoskeletal prostheses with neural sensory feedback in their daily lives and reported said prostheses as part of their body. Our findings suggest that people immune to the RHI can nevertheless experience ownership over prosthetic limbs when used in daily life and accentuates a significant limitation of the RHI paradigm.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus status in obese patients following sleeve gastrectomy or one anastomosis gastric bypass
Authors: Vrakopoulou Gavriella Zoi , Theodoropoulos Charalampos , Kalles Vasileios , Zografos George , Almpanopoulos Konstantinos
Published: February 2021

This study aims to compare sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) in terms of remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in obese patients. All T2DM patients were followed-up for at least 36 months. The primary outcome was remission of T2DM. Secondary endpoints included weight reduction and the procedure’s impact on quality of life. In total, 53/1177 morbidly obese patients who underwent SG (Group A, n = 28) or OAGB (Group B, n = 25) had T2DM. Preoperatively, the mean Body Mass Index (BMI) values were 52.2 ± 8.5 kg/m2 and 52.9 ± 10.9 kg/m2 for Group A and Group B, respectively. Six patients in Group A were insulin dependent, while 8 were insulin dependent in Group B. After 36 months, diabetes remission was achieved by only 10 patients (35.7%) in Group A. However, in Group B, 22 patients (88%) remained off antidiabetic agents (p < 0.0001), with ΔHbA1c (%) reaching 1.4 ± 1.5% in Group A and 2.7 ± 2.1% in Group B (p = 0.02). Excess weight loss% (%EWL) was again significantly different between the two groups (MA = 79.8 ± 14.5%, MB = 93.3 ± 16.0%, p = 0.003). OAGB is more effective in improving glycaemic control and %EWL, with almost immediate resolution of diabetes, as well as long-term weight loss.
Machine learning approaches for the prediction of bone mineral density by using genomic and phenotypic data of 5130 older men
Authors: Wu Qing , Nasoz Fatma , Jung Jongyun , Bhattarai Bibek , Han Mira V. , Greenes Robert A. , Saag Kenneth G.
Published: February 2021

The study aimed to utilize machine learning (ML) approaches and genomic data to develop a prediction model for bone mineral density (BMD) and identify the best modeling approach for BMD prediction. The genomic and phenotypic data of Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study (n = 5130) was analyzed. Genetic risk score (GRS) was calculated from 1103 associated SNPs for each participant after a comprehensive genotype imputation. Data were normalized and divided into a training set (80%) and a validation set (20%) for analysis. Random forest, gradient boosting, neural network, and linear regression were used to develop BMD prediction models separately. Ten-fold cross-validation was used for hyper-parameters optimization. Mean square error and mean absolute error were used to assess model performance. When using GRS and phenotypic covariates as the predictors, all ML models’ performance and linear regression in BMD prediction were similar. However, when replacing GRS with the 1103 individual SNPs in the model, ML models performed significantly better than linear regression (with lasso regularization), and the gradient boosting model performed the best. Our study suggested that ML models, especially gradient boosting, can improve BMD prediction in genomic data.
Peripheral arterial stiffness during electrocutaneous stimulation is positively correlated with pain-related brain activity and subjective pain intensity: an fMRI study
Authors: Tsuji Toshio , Arikuni Fumiya , Sasaoka Takafumi , Suyama Shin , Akiyoshi Takashi , Soh Zu , Hirano Harutoyo , Nakamura Ryuji , Saeki Noboru , Kawamoto Masashi , Yoshizumi Masao , Yoshino Atsuo , Yamawaki Shigeto
Published: February 2021

Brain activity associated with pain perception has been revealed by numerous PET and fMRI studies over the past few decades. These findings helped to establish the concept of the pain matrix, which is the distributed brain networks that demonstrate pain-specific cortical activities. We previously found that peripheral arterial stiffness $${\beta }_{\text{art}}$$

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responds to pain intensity, which is estimated from electrocardiography, continuous sphygmomanometer, and photo-plethysmography. However, it remains unclear whether and to what extent $${\beta }_{\text{art}}$$

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art

aligns with pain matrix brain activity. In this fMRI study, 22 participants received different intensities of pain stimuli. We identified brain regions in which the blood oxygen level-dependent signal covaried with $${\beta }_{\text{art}}$$

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using parametric modulation analysis. Among the identified brain regions, the lateral and medial prefrontal cortex and ventral and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex were consistent with the pain matrix. We found moderate correlations between the average activities in these regions and $${\beta }_{\text{art}}$$

β
art

(r = 0.47, p < 0.001). $${\beta }_{\text{art}}$$

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was also significantly correlated with self-reported pain intensity (r = 0.44, p < 0.001) and applied pain intensity (r = 0.43, p < 0.001). Our results indicate that $${\beta }_{\text{art}}$$

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is positively correlated with pain-related brain activity and subjective pain intensity. This study may thus represent a basis for adopting peripheral arterial stiffness as an objective pain evaluation metric.
Impaired olfactory neurogenesis affects the performance of olfactory-guided behavior in aged female opossums
Authors: Tepper Beata , Koguc-Sobolewska Paulina , Jaslan Katarzyna , Turlejski Krzysztof , Bartkowska Katarzyna , Djavadian Ruzanna
Published: February 2021

Increasing evidence has indicated that adult neurogenesis contributes to brain plasticity, although function of new neurons is still under debate. In opossums, we performed an olfactory-guided behavior task and examined the association between olfactory discrimination-guided behavior and adult neurogenesis in the olfactory bulb (OB). We found that young and aged opossums of either sex learned to find food buried in litter using olfactory cues. However, aged females required more time to find food compared to aged males and young opossums of both sexes. The levels of doublecortin, that is used as a marker for immature neurons, were the lowest in the OB of aged female opossums. Another protein, HuD that is associated with learning and memory, was detected in all layers of the OB, except the granule cell layer, where a high density of DCX cells was detected. The level of HuD was higher in aged opossums compared to young opossums. This indicates that HuD is involved in plasticity and negatively regulates olfactory perception. The majority of 2-year-old female opossums are in the post-reproductive age but males of this age are still sexually active. We suggest that in aged female opossums neural plasticity induced by adult neurogenesis decreases due to their hormonal decline.
High abundance of sugar metabolisers in saliva of children with caries
Authors: Manzoor Muhammed , Lommi Sohvi , Furuholm Jussi , Sarkkola Catharina , Engberg Elina , Raju Sajan , Viljakainen Heli
Published: February 2021

Dental caries is a biofilm-mediated, dynamic disease with early onset. A balanced salivary microbiota is a foundation of oral health, while dysbiosis causes tooth decay. We compared the saliva microbiota profiles in children with and without caries. The study consisted of 617 children aged 9–12 years from the Finnish Health in Teens (Fin-HIT) study with available register data on oral health. Caries status was summarised based on Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index in permanent dentition. The children were then classified into the following two groups: DMFT value ≥ 1 was considered as cavitated caries lesions (hereafter called ‘caries’) (n = 208) and DMFT = 0 as ‘cavity free’ (n = 409). Bacterial 16S rRNA gene (V3–V4 regions) was amplified using PCR and sequenced by Illumina HiSeq. The mean age (SD) of the children was 11.7 (0.4) years and 56% were girls. The children had relatively good dental health with mean DMFT of 0.86 (1.97). Since sex was the key determinant of microbiota composition (p = 0.014), we focused on sex-stratified analysis. Alpha diversity indexes did not differ between caries and cavity free groups in either sexes (Shannon: p = 0.40 and 0.58; Inverse Simpson: p = 0.51 and 0.60, in boys and girls, respectively); neither did the composition differ between the groups (p = 0.070 for boys and p = 0.230 for girls). At the genus level, Paludibacter and Labrenzia had higher abundances in the caries group compared to cavity free group in both sexes (p < 0.001). Taken together, there were minor differences in saliva microbiota between children with and without caries. Potential biomarkers of caries were the sugar metabolisers Paludibacter and Labrenzia. These bacteria presumably enhance salivary acidification, which contributes to progression of dental caries. The clinical relevance of our findings warrants further studies.
Contrasting multitaxon responses to climate change in Mediterranean mountains
Authors: Di Nuzzo Luca , Vallese Chiara , Benesperi Renato , Giordani Paolo , Chiarucci Alessandro , Di Cecco Valter , Di Martino Luciano , Di Musciano Michele , Gheza Gabriele , Lelli Chiara , Spitale Daniel , Nascimbene Juri
Published: February 2021

We explored the influence of climatic factors on diversity patterns of multiple taxa (lichens, bryophytes, and vascular plants) along a steep elevational gradient to predict communities’ dynamics under future climate change scenarios in Mediterranean regions. We analysed (1) species richness patterns in terms of heat-adapted, intermediate, and cold-adapted species; (2) pairwise beta-diversity patterns, also accounting for its two different components, species replacement and richness difference; (3) the influence of climatic variables on species functional traits. Species richness is influenced by different factors between three taxonomic groups, while beta diversity differs mainly between plants and cryptogams. Functional traits are influenced by different factors in each taxonomic group. On the basis of our observations, poikilohydric cryptogams could be more impacted by climate change than vascular plants. However, contrasting species-climate and traits-climate relationships were also found between lichens and bryophytes suggesting that each group may be sensitive to different components of climate change. Our study supports the usefulness of a multi-taxon approach coupled with a species traits analysis to better unravel the response of terrestrial communities to climate change. This would be especially relevant for lichens and bryophytes, whose response to climate change is still poorly explored.
Endosperm cell size reduction caused by osmotic adjustment during nighttime warming in rice
Authors: Wada Hiroshi , Chang Fang-Yu , Hatakeyama Yuto , Erra-Balsells Rosa , Araki Takuya , Nakano Hiroshi , Nonami Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

High night temperature (HNT) often reduces yield in field crops. In rice, HNT during the ripening stage diminishes endosperm cell size, resulting in a considerable reduction in final kernel weight; however, little is known about the underlying mechanisms at cell level. In this study, we performed picolitre pressure-probe-electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry to directly determine metabolites in growing inner endosperm cells of intact seeds produced under HNT conditions, combining with 13C feeding and water status measurements including in situ turgor assay. Microscopic observation in the inner zone suggested that approximately 24.2% of decrease in cell expansion rate occurred under HNT at early ripening stage, leading to a reduction in cell volume. It has been shown that HNT-treated plants were subjected to mild shoot water deficit at night and endosperm cell turgor was sustained by a decline in osmotic potential. Cell metabolomics also suggests that active solute accumulation was caused by a partial inhibition of wall and starch biosynthesis under HNT conditions. Because metabolites were detected in the single cells, it is concluded that a partial arrest of cell expansion observed in the inner endosperms was caused by osmotic adjustment at mild water deficit during HNT conditions.
Highly dampened blood transcriptome response in HIV patients after respiratory infection
Authors: Sellers Subhashini A. , Fischer William A. , Heise Mark T. , Schughart Klaus
Published: February 2021

Respiratory viral (RV) infections represent a major threat for human health worldwide. Persons with HIV (PWH) have a compromised immune response and are thought to be at higher risk for severe RV disease. However, very little is known about the host immune response to RV infection in PWH. Here, we investigated gene expression changes in the peripheral blood of PWH co-infected with RV. Only very few differentially expressed genes could be detected between PWH with and without RV infection, suggesting that the immune response to RV in PWH is strongly dampened. Our data provides important insights into the host response to RV infections in HIV patients.
A novel approach for microRNA in situ hybridization using locked nucleic acid probes
Authors: Paulsen Isabella W. , Bzorek Michael , Olsen Jesper , Grum-Schwensen Birgitte , Troelsen Jesper T. , Pedersen Ole B.
Published: February 2021

Identification of target tissue microRNAs (miR) using in situ hybridization (ISH), with digoxigenin-labeled locked nucleic acid (LNA) probes, is influenced by preanalytic parameters. To determine the best retrieval method for common microRNAs, a multiblock composed of paraffin-embedded tonsil, cervix, placenta, and hyperplastic prostate tissue were included. Tissue were fixed in 10% formalin in a range of 5–144 hours (h). Cut sections (5 μm) from the multiblock were subjected to combinations of pretreatment procedures: variable periods of proteinase K (PK) digestion or Heat-induced microRNA Retrieval (HmiRR) using target retrieval solution (TRS) pH 6.1 or 9, with or without enzymatic treatment (pepsin). Results for the overall categories: TRS pH 9 versus PK; p = 2.9e−23, TRS pH 9 versus TRS pH 6.1; p = 1.1e−14, TRS pH 6.1 versus PK; p = 2.9e−03. A long fixation time, resulted in the best microRNA preservation and staining intensity (long vs. short: p = 3.5e−47, long vs. moderate: p = 1.6e−44, moderate vs. short: p = 4.3e−16), was enhanced using HmiRR TRS pH 9 with or without pepsin providing high sensitivity and specificity. These observations conflict with other ISH techniques (e.g., messenger ribonucleic acid), which typically require shorter fixation periods, and therefore, further studies are warranted.
The ADP-binding kinase region of Ire1 directly contributes to its responsiveness to endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Le Quynh Giang , Ishiwata-Kimata Yuki , Phuong Thi Huong , Fukunaka Shigeto , Kohno Kenji , Kimata Yukio
Published: February 2021

Upon endoplasmic-reticulum (ER) stress, the ER-located transmembrane protein, Ire1, is autophosphorylated and acts as an endoribonuclease to trigger the unfolded protein response (UPR). Previous biochemical studies have shown that Ire1 exhibits strong endoribonuclease activity when its cytosolic kinase region captures ADP. Here, we asked how this event contributes to the regulation of Ire1 activity. At the beginning of this study, we obtained a luminal-domain mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ire1, deltaIdeltaIIIdeltaV/Y225H Ire1, which is deduced to be controlled by none of the luminal-side regulatory events. ER-stress responsiveness of deltaIdeltaIIIdeltaV/Y225H Ire1 was largely compromised by a further mutation on the kinase region, D797N/K799N, which allows Ire1 to be activated without capturing ADP. Therefore, in addition to the ER-luminal domain of Ire1, which monitors ER conditions, the kinase region is directly involved in the ER-stress responsiveness of Ire1. We propose that potent ER stress harms cells’ “vividness”, increasing the cytosolic ADP/ATP ratio, and eventually strongly activates Ire1. This mechanism seems to contribute to the suppression of inappropriately potent UPR under weak ER-stress conditions.
Competing nucleation of single- and double-layer Guinier–Preston zones in Al–Cu alloys
Authors: Miyoshi Hiroshi , Kimizuka Hajime , Ishii Akio , Ogata Shigenobu
Published: February 2021

Solid-state precipitation is a key heat-treatment strategy for strengthening engineering alloys. Therefore, predicting the precipitation process of localized solute-rich clusters, such as Guinier–Preston (GP) zones, is necessary. We quantitatively evaluated the critical nucleus size and nucleation barrier of GP zones in Al–Cu alloys, illustrating the precipitation preferences of single-layer (GP1) and double-layer (GP2) GP zones. Based on classical nucleation theory using an effective multi-body potential for dilute Al–Cu systems, our model predicted GP1 and GP2 precipitation sequences at various temperatures and Cu concentrations in a manner consistent with experimental observations. The crossover between formation enthalpy curves of GP1 and GP2 with increasing cluster size determines the critical conditions under which GP2 zones can nucleate without prior formation of GP1 zones. This relationship reflects competing interactions within and between clusters. The results illustrate the underlying mechanisms of competing nucleation between zones, and provide guidance for tailoring aging conditions to achieve desired mechanical properties for specific applications.
All-trans-retinoic acid ameliorates atherosclerosis, promotes perivascular adipose tissue browning, and increases adiponectin production in Apo-E mice
Authors: Kalisz Małgorzata , Chmielowska Magdalena , Martyńska Lidia , Domańska Anita , Bik Wojciech , Litwiniuk Anna
Published: February 2021

All-trans-retinoic acid (atRA), an active metabolite of vitamin A, exerts a potential role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It has been shown that atRA ameliorates atherosclerosis while the exact mechanism underlying this protection remains unknown. This study investigated the influence of atRA on insulin resistance (IR), atherosclerosis, and the process of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) browning. Moreover, syntheses of adiponectin, adipokine with anti-atherogenic effects, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, were determined in PVAT. Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice (Apo-E) and control C57BL/6J wild-type mice were treated with atRA (5 mg/kg/day) or vehicle (corn oil) by plastic feeding tubes for 8 weeks. Long-term atRA treatment in Apo-E mice did not affect insulin resistance. AtRa administration ameliorated atherosclerosis, induced PVAT browning, and increased adiponectin production in PVAT in Apo-E mice. Furthermore, atRA increased nitric oxide (NO) level but did not affect adiponectin concentration in the aorta of Apo-E mice. These results indicate that atRA ameliorates atherosclerosis in Apo-E mice. We also observed the browning of PVAT. Besides, atRA increased the synthesis of adiponectin in PVAT and augmented NO level in the aorta in ApoE mice.
Effects of miR-143 and its target receptor 5-HT2B on agonistic behavior in the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)
Authors: Pang Yang-Yang , Huang Gen-Yong , Song Ya-Meng , Song Xiao- Zhe , Lv Jia-Huan , He Long , Niu Chao , Shi Ao-Ya , Shi Xing-Liang , Cheng Yong-Xu , Yang Xiao-Zhen
Published: February 2021

Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) as a commercially important species is widely cultured in China. However, E. sinensis is prone to agonistic behavior, which causes physical damage and wastes energy resources, negatively impacting their growth and survival. Therefore, understanding the regulatory mechanisms that underlie the switching of such behavior is essential for ensuring the efficient and cost-effective aquaculture of E. sinensis. The 5-HT2B receptor is a key downstream target of serotonin (5-HT), which is involved in regulating animal behavior. In this study, the full-length sequence of 5-HT2B gene was cloned. The total length of the 5-HT2B gene was found to be 3127 bp with a 236 bp 5′-UTR (untranslated region), a 779 bp 3′-UTR, and a 2112 bp open reading frame encoding 703 amino acids. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that the 5-HT2B amino acid sequence of E. sinensis is highly conserved with that of Cancer borealis. Using in vitro co-culture and luciferase assays, the miR-143 targets the 5-HT2B 3′-UTR and inhibits 5-HT2B expression was confirmed. Furthermore, RT-qPCR and Western blotting analyses revealed that the miR-143 mimic significantly inhibits 5-HT2B mRNA and protein expression. However, injection of miR-143 did not decrease agonistic behavior, indicating that 5-HT2B is not involved in the regulation of such behavior in E. sinensis.
Comparison of the clinical characteristics and mortality of adults infected with human coronaviruses 229E and OC43
Authors: Choi Won-Il , Kim In Byung , Park Sang Joon , Ha Eun-Hye , Lee Choong Won
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the study was to compare clinical characteristics and mortality among adults infected with human coronaviruses (HCoV) 229E and OC43. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults (≥ 18 years) admitted to the ward of a university teaching hospital for suspected viral infection from October 2012 to December 2017. Multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to test for respiratory viruses. Multivariate logistic regression was used to compare mortality among patients with HCoV 229E and HCoV OC43 infections. The main outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. Of 8071 patients tested, 1689 were found to have a respiratory virus infection. Of these patients, 133 had HCoV infection, including 12 mixed infections, 44 HCoV 229E infections, and 77 HCoV OC43 infections. HCoV 229E infections peaked in January and February, while HCoV OC43 infections occurred throughout the year. The 30-day all-cause mortality was 25.0% among patients with HCoV 229E infection, and 9.1% among patients with HCoV OC43 infection (adjusted odds ratio: 3.58, 95% confidence interval: 1.19–10.75). Infections with HCoVs 229E and OC43 appear to have different seasonal patterns, and HCoV 229E might be more virulent than HCoV OC43.
A novel application of Lobatto IIIA solver for numerical treatment of mixed convection nanofluidic model
Authors: Ahmad Iftikhar , Cheema Tahir Nawaz , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Awan Saeed Ehsan , Alias Norma Binti , Iqbal Sana , Shoaib Muhammad
Published: February 2021

The objective of the current investigation is to examine the influence of variable viscosity and transverse magnetic field on mixed convection fluid model through stretching sheet based on copper and silver nanoparticles by exploiting the strength of numerical computing via Lobatto IIIA solver. The nonlinear partial differential equations are changed into ordinary differential equations by means of similarity transformations procedure. A renewed finite difference based Lobatto IIIA method is incorporated to solve the fluidic system numerically. Vogel's model is considered to observe the influence of variable viscosity and applied oblique magnetic field with mixed convection along with temperature dependent viscosity. Graphical and numerical illustrations are presented to visualize the behavior of different sundry parameters of interest on velocity and temperature. Outcomes reflect that volumetric fraction of nanoparticles causes to increase the thermal conductivity of the fluid and the temperature enhances due to blade type copper nanoparticles. The convergence analysis on the accuracy to solve the problem is investigated viably though the residual errors with different tolerances to prove the worth of the solver. The temperature of the fluid accelerates due the blade type nanoparticles of copper and skin friction coefficient is reduced due to enhancement of Grashof Number.
Effects of the antibiotic rifaximin on cortical functional connectivity are mediated through insular cortex
Authors: Sometti Davide , Ballan Chiara , Wang Huiying , Braun Christoph , Enck Paul
Published: February 2021

It is well-known that antibiotics affect commensal gut bacteria; however, only recently evidence accumulated that gut microbiota (GM) can influence the central nervous system functions. Preclinical animal studies have repeatedly highlighted the effects of antibiotics on brain activity; however, translational studies in humans are still missing. Here, we present a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigating the effects of 7 days intake of Rifaximin (non-absorbable antibiotic) on functional brain connectivity (fc) using magnetoencephalography. Sixteen healthy volunteers were tested before and after the treatment, during resting state (rs), and during a social stressor paradigm (Cyberball game—CBG), designed to elicit feelings of exclusion. Results confirm the hypothesis of an involvement of the insular cortex as a common node of different functional networks, thus suggesting its potential role as a central mediator of cortical fc alterations, following modifications of GM. Also, the Rifaximin group displayed lower connectivity in slow and fast beta bands (15 and 25 Hz) during rest, and higher connectivity in theta (7 Hz) during the inclusion condition of the CBG, compared with controls. Altogether these results indicate a modulation of Rifaximin on frequency-specific functional connectivity that could involve cognitive flexibility and memory processing.
A reappraisal of the prevalence of pediatric hypertension through a nationwide database in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Wan-Fu , Kao Yi-Wei , Chen Mingchih , Chiang Huei-Chen , Chen Shih-Yen , Lu Meng-Che , Shia Ben-Chang , Hsieh Kai-Sheng
Published: February 2021

Hypertension in childhood and adolescence is associated with adult cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the reported prevalence of pediatric hypertension varies considerably. We conducted a pioneer nationwide population-based study to investigate the prevalence of hypertension among children and adolescents. Pediatric patients who had been diagnosed with hypertension between 2000 and 2013 were selected from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. Other metabolic syndrome-related diseases that would increase cardiovascular risk, including diabetes mellitus (DM), hyperlipidemia, and obesity, were also retrieved for further evaluation. In total, 10,364 children and adolescents diagnosed with hypertension were identified. The prevalence of pediatric hypertension in Taiwan ranged from 0.19 to 0.38 per 1000 children and adolescents between 2000 and 2013. Essential hypertension was most commonly coded (90.6%), which was much more than secondary hypertension (14.3%). Children and adolescents with hypertension were often associated with DM, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, with the odds ratios as 14.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) 11.74–16.81, p < 0.001), 10.65 (95% CI 9.48–11.97, p < 0.001), and 19.08 (95% CI 15.65–23.26, p < 0.001), respectively. To improve lifelong cardiovascular health, our results emphasize the importance of early proper recognition and suitable management of hypertension, as well as metabolic syndrome-related diseases, among children and adolescents.
Veno-occlusive unloading of the heart reduces infarct size in experimental ischemia–reperfusion
Authors: Hansen Esben Søvsø Szocska , Madsen Tobias Lynge , Wood Gregory , Granfeldt Asger , Bøgh Nikolaj , Tofig Bawer Jalal , Agger Peter , Lindhardt Jakob Lykke , Poulsen Christian Bo , Bøtker Hans Erik , Kim Won Yong
Published: February 2021

Mechanical unloading of the left ventricle reduces infarct size after acute myocardial infarction by reducing cardiac work. Left ventricular veno-occlusive unloading reduces cardiac work and may reduce ischemia and reperfusion injury. In a porcine model of myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury we randomized 18 pigs to either control or veno-occlusive unloading using a balloon engaged from the femoral vein into the inferior caval vein and inflated at onset of ischemia. Evans blue and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride were used to determine the myocardial area at risk and infarct size, respectively. Pressure–volume loops were recorded to calculate cardiac work, left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction. Veno-occlusive unloading reduced infarct size compared with controls (Unloading 13.9 ± 8.2% versus Control 22.4 ± 6.6%; p = 0.04). Unloading increased myocardial salvage (54.8 ± 23.4% vs 28.5 ± 14.0%; p = 0.02), while the area at risk was similar (28.4 ± 6.7% vs 27.4 ± 5.8%; p = 0.74). LV ejection fraction was preserved in the unloaded group, while the control group showed a reduced LV ejection fraction. Veno-occlusive unloading reduced myocardial infarct size and preserved LV ejection fraction in an experimental acute ischemia–reperfusion model. This proof-of-concept study demonstrated the potential of veno-occlusive unloading as an adjunctive cardioprotective therapy in patients undergoing revascularization for acute myocardial infarction.
Physical characterization of biphasic bioceramic materials with different granulation sizes and their influence on bone repair and inflammation in rat calvaria
Authors: de Oliveira Junior Joviniano Martins , Montagner Pedro Giorgetti , Carrijo Rafael Coutinho , Martinez Elizabeth Ferreira
Published: February 2021

Biphasic calcium phosphate bioceramics (BCP) consist of a mixture of hydroxyapatite (HA) and beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) within the same particle. Due to their osteoconductive properties, biocompatibility and resemblance to natural bone, these materials have become a promising and suitable alternative to autologous bone grafting. First, the topography characteristics, specific surface area, and total pore volume of BCP were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and the BET and BJH methods. Next, this study aimed to evaluate the intensity of the inflammatory process and the bone neoformation capacity of various particle sizes of BCP in the repair of critical defects in the calvaria of rats. A xenogeneic biomaterial was used in the control group. After 30, 60, and 90 days, the animals were euthanized, followed by the processing of the samples to measure the intensity of inflammatory infiltrates and the areas of bone neoformation. Our results indicate that no considerable differences were observed in the inflammatory scores in sites treated with distinct BCP grain sizes. A greater area of bone neoformation was measured in the xenogeneic group at all analysis times, with no substantial differences in bone formation between the BCP particle size in the range of 250–500 µm and 500–1000 µm.
China’s first step towards probing the expanding universe and the nature of gravity using a space borne gravitational wave antenna
Authors:   The Taiji Scientific Collaboration, Wu Yue-Liang , Luo Zi-Ren , Wang Jian-Yu , Bai Meng , Bian Wei , Cai Rong-Gen , Cai Zhi-Ming , Cao Jin , Chen Di-Jun , Chen Ling , Chen Li-Sheng , Chen Ming-Wei , Chen Wei-Biao , Chen Ze-Yi , Cong Lin-Xiao , Deng Jian-Feng , Dong Xiao-Long , Duan Li , Fan Sen-Quan , Fan Shou-Shan , Fang Chao , Fang Yuan , Feng Ke , Feng Pan , Feng Zhun , Gao Rui-Hong , Gao Run-Lian , Guo Zong-Kuan , He Jian-Wu , He Ji-Bo , Hou Xia , Hu Liang , Hu Wen-Rui , Hu Zhi-Qiang , Huang Min-Jie , Jia Jian-Jun , Jiang Kai-Li , Jin Gang , Jin Hong-Bo , Kang Qi , Lei Jun-Gang , Li Bo-Quan , Li Dong-Jing , Li Fan , Li Hao-Si , Li Hua-Wang , Li Liu-Feng , Li Wei , Li Xiao-Kang , Li Ying-Min , Li Yong-Gui , Li Yun-Peng , Li Yu-Peng , Li Zhe , Lin Zhi-Yong , Liu Chang , Liu Dong-Bin , Liu He-Shan , Liu Hong , Liu Peng , Liu Yu-Rong , Lu Zong-Yu , Luo Hong-Wei , Ma Fu-Li , Ma Long-Fei , Ma Xiao-Shan , Ma Xin , Man Yi-Chuan , Min Jian , Niu Yu , Peng Jian-Kang , Peng Xiao-Dong , Qi Ke-Qi , Qiang Li-É , Qiao Cong-Feng , Qu Ye-Xi , Ruan Wen-Hong , Sha Wei , Shen Jia , Shi Xing-Jian , Shu Rong , Su Ju , Sui Yan-Lin , Sun Guang-Wei , Tang Wen-Lin , Tao Hong-Jiang , Tao Wen-Ze , Tian Zheng , Wan Ling-Feng , Wang Chen-Yu , Wang Jia , Wang Juan , Wang Lin-Lin , Wang Shao-Xin , Wang Xiao-Peng , Wang Yu-Kun , Wang Zhi , Wang Zuo-Lei , Wei Yu-Xiao , Di Wu  , Wu Li-Ming , Wu Peng-Zhan , Wu Zhi-Hua , Xi Dong-Xue , Xie Yi-Fang , Xin Guo-Feng , Xu Lu-Xiang , Xu Peng , Xu Shu-Yan , Xu Yu , Xue Sen-Wen , Xue Zhang-Bin , Yang Chao , Yang Ran , Yang Shi-Jia , Yang Shuang , Yang Yong , Yang Zhong-Guo , Yin Yong-Li , Yu Jin-Pei , Yu Tao , Zhang Ài-Bing , Zhang Chu , Zhang Min , Zhang Xue-Quan , Zhang Yuan-Zhong , Zhao Jian , Zhao Wei-Wei , Zhao Ya , Zheng Jian-Hua , Zhou Cui-Yun , Zhu Zhen-Cai , Zou Xiao-Bo , Zou Zi-Ming
Published: February 2021

In this perspective, we outline that a space borne gravitational wave detector network combining LISA and Taiji can be used to measure the Hubble constant with an uncertainty less than 0.5% in ten years, compared with the network of the ground based gravitational wave detectors which can measure the Hubble constant within a 2% uncertainty in the next five years by the standard siren method. Taiji is a Chinese space borne gravitational wave detection mission planned for launch in the early 2030 s. The pilot satellite mission Taiji-1 has been launched in August 2019 to verify the feasibility of Taiji. The results of a few technologies tested on Taiji-1 are presented in this paper.
Nondestructive microwave detection of a coherent quantum dynamics in cold atoms
Authors: Dubosclard William , Kim Seungjin , Garrido Alzar Carlos L.
Published: February 2021

Cold atom quantum sensors based on atom interferometry are among the most accurate instruments used in fundamental physics, metrology, and foreseen for autonomous inertial navigation. However, they typically have optically complex, cumbersome, and low-bandwidth atom detection systems, limiting their practical applications. Here, we demonstrate an enabling technology for high-bandwidth, compact, and nondestructive detection of cold atoms, using microwave radiation. We measure the reflected microwave signal to coherently and distinctly detect the population of single quantum states with a bandwidth close to 30 kHz and a design destructivity that we set to 0.04%. We use a horn antenna and free-falling molasses cooled atoms in order to demonstrate the feasibility of this technique in conventional cold atom interferometers. This technology, combined with coplanar waveguides used as microwave sources, provides a basic design building block for detection in future atom chip-based compact quantum inertial sensors.
Classic highlights in porphyrin and porphyrinoid total synthesis and biosynthesis
Authors: Senge Mathias O. , Sergeeva Natalia N. , Hale Karl J.
Published: February 2021

The development of porphyrin synthesis is illustrated, using classic and modern-day examples, which attempt to provide insights, including mechanistic ones, into the most used methods for porphyrin ring-construction and selective functionalization.
Interplay between the crystal stability and the energy of the molecular conformation
Authors: Dyk Konrad , Baran Łukasz , Rżysko Wojciech , Stankevič Marek , Kamiński Daniel M.
Published: February 2021

The lattice energy is the main factor in determining the structure even if the molecules adopt a less energetically favorable conformation.
Boron–noble gas covalent bonds in borenium and boronium compounds
Authors: Arrué Lily , Pino-Rios Ricardo
Published: February 2021

Interaction between the BH2+ and noble gases have been evaluated. Results show that BH2Ng+ and BH2Ng2+ compounds (Ng = Ar–Rn) are thermodynamic and kinetically stable. Additionally, it is shown that these compounds form strong covalent B–Ng bonds.
Site-by-site tracking of signal transduction in an azidophenylalanine-labeled bacteriophytochrome with step-scan FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Kurttila Moona , Stucki-Buchli Brigitte , Rumfeldt Jessica , Schroeder Lea , Häkkänen Heikki , Liukkonen Alli , Takala Heikki , Kottke Tilman , Ihalainen Janne A.
Published: February 2021

Vibrationally distinguishable amino acid, azidophenylalanine, reveals site-specific information of a bacteriophytochrome in action. Collective responses are observed, yet each site shows specific kinetics in the protein signal transduction.
Formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzofuran, and dibenzofuran in fuel-rich oxidation of toluene using a flow reactor
Authors: Suzuki Shunsuke , Kiuchi Shota , Kinoshita Koichi , Takeda Yoshinaka , Sakaida Satoshi , Konno Mitsuru , Tanaka Kotaro , Oguma Mitsuharu
Published: February 2021

Simulations using the kinetic model for benzofuran and dibenzofuran formation showed good agreement with the experimental results.
In situsolid-state nanopore fabrication
Authors: Fried Jasper P. , Swett Jacob L. , Nadappuram Binoy Paulose , Mol Jan A. , Edel Joshua B. , Ivanov Aleksandar P. , Yates James R.
Published: February 2021

This review summarises the development ofin situsolid-state nanopore fabrication techniques. These techniques are democratising solid-state nanopore research by providing rapid and accessible methods to fabricate nanopores.
Recent advances in Cu2O-based composites for photocatalysis: a review
Authors: Zhang Yong-Hui , Liu Ming-Ming , Chen Jun-Li , Fang Shao-Ming , Zhou Pan-Pan
Published: February 2021

This review summarizes the crystal structures, modification methods, application prospects, and electron transfer mechanisms of different Cu2O-based photocatalysts.
Transparent photovoltaic memory for neuromorphic device
Authors: Bhatnagar Priyanka , Nguyen Thanh Tai , Kim Sangho , Seo Ji Heun , Patel Malkeshkumar , Kim Joondong
Published: February 2021

Self-powered transparent photovoltaic (TPV) artificial eyes and memory device.
Selective release of a potent anticancer agent from a supramolecular hydrogel using green light
Authors: Karcher Johannes , Kirchner Susanne , Leistner Anna-Lena , Hald Christian , Geng Philipp , Bantle Tobias , Gödtel Peter , Pfeifer Juliana , Pianowski Zbigniew L.
Published: February 2021

Selective green-light triggered release of an anticancer agent under physiological conditions from a supramolecular hydrogel.
Synthesis and characterization of activated carbon from sugar beet residue for the adsorption of hexavalent chromium in aqueous solutions
Authors: Zhao Jiaming , Yu Lihua , Zhou Feng , Ma Huixia , Yang Kongyan , Wu Guang
Published: February 2021

A series of micro–mesoporous activated carbons (ACs) were prepared from sugar beet residue by a two-step method including KOH chemical activation and were used for Cr(vi) removal from aqueous solutions.
Complex magnetism of the two-dimensional antiferromagnetic Ge2F: from a Néel spin-texture to a potential antiferromagnetic skyrmion
Authors: Ramadan Fatima Zahra , José dos Santos Flaviano , Drissi Lalla Btissam , Lounis Samir
Published: February 2021

Based on density functional theory combined with low-energy models, we explore the magnetic properties of a hybrid atomic-thick two-dimensional (2D) material made of germanene doped with fluorine atoms in a half-fluorinated configuration (Ge2F).
A novel Fe/N/C electrocatalyst prepared from a carbon-supported iron(ii) complex of macrocyclic ligands for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Xu Dawei , Fu Yuanyuan , Xiao Dejian , Li Xuhui , Wang Yefei , Li Kai , Li Zhongfeng , Zheng Lirong , Zuo Xia
Published: February 2021

We synthesized Fe/N/C composites from a carbon-supported iron(ii) coordination complex of 2,3-dicyanotetraazabenzotriphenylene (2,3-DCTBT) ligands via hydrothermal treatment.
Pseudo in situ construction of high-performance thermoelectric composites with a dioxothiopyrone-based D–A polymer coating on SWCNTs
Authors: Qu Wen-Qiang , Gao Cai-Yan , Zhang Ping-Xia , Fan Xin-Heng , Yang Lian-Ming
Published: February 2021

High-performance thermoelectric composites with a dioxothiopyrone unit have been constructed utilizing SWCNTs and polymer TPO-TTP12via a simulated in situ compositing strategy based on the coagulation method.
Defective TiO2for photocatalytic CO2conversion to fuels and chemicals
Authors: Rawool Sushma A. , Yadav Kishan K. , Polshettiwar Vivek
Published: February 2021

This review discusses photocatalytic CO2conversion using defective TiO2, with emphasis on the mechanism, the role of defects on CO2adsorption–activation and product selectivity, as well as challenges of defective TiO2to produce solar fuels.
Metabolic mechanisms of a drug revealed by distortion-free 13C tracer analysis
Authors: Cha Jin Wook , Jin Xing , Jo Sihyang , An Yong Jin , Park Sunghyouk
Published: February 2021

Our approach provides high-resolution and distortion-free NMR for metabolic tracer analysis. It confirmed the conventional mechanism of dichloroacetate and suggested a new one involving an enhanced contribution of PPP to cytosolic serine synthesis.
Organic photoelectrode engineering: accelerating photocurrent generation via donor–acceptor interactions and surface-assisted synthetic approach
Authors: Kochergin Yaroslav S. , Beladi-Mousavi Seyyed Mohsen , Khezri Bahareh , Lyu Pengbo , Bojdys Michael J. , Pumera Martin
Published: February 2021

We construct photoelectrodes based on a conjugated organic network. The donor–acceptor interactions within the polymer structure narrow the optical bandgap and enable efficient excited charge transfer, leading to the marked improvement of the PEC activity of the electrode.
Synthesis, band structure and photocatalytic properties of Sillén–Aurivillius oxychlorides BaBi5Ti3O14Cl, Ba2Bi5Ti4O17Cl and Ba3Bi5Ti5O20Cl with triple-, quadruple- and quintuple-perovskite layers
Authors: Ozaki Daichi , Suzuki Hajime , Ogawa Kanta , Sakamoto Ryota , Inaguma Yoshiyuki , Nakashima Kouichi , Tomita Osamu , Kageyama Hiroshi , Abe Ryu
Published: February 2021

New Sillén–Aurivillius layered oxychlorides with triple-, quadruple- and quintuple-perovskite layers (n= 3−5) are successfully synthesized and their photocatalytic activities are enhanced with increasing the number of the perovskite layers.
Engineering highly active Cd1−xZnxS nanopopcorns via zinc blende/wurtzite phase junctions for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution without a co-catalyst
Authors: Guo Xiaosheng , Cheng Chuchu , Xing Fangshu , Huang Caijin
Published: February 2021

Cd1−xZnxS nanopopcorns with ZB/WZ phase junctions for effectively enhanced visible-light photocatalytic H2 evolution without a co-catalyst.
Dual vis-NIR emissive bimetallic naphthoates of Eu–Yb–Gd: a new approach toward Yb luminescence intensity increase through Eu → Yb energy transfer
Authors: Kim Jae Hoon , Lepnev Leonid S. , Utochnikova Valentina V.
Published: February 2021

The first example of Eu-to-Yb energy transfer was found in bimetallic naphthoates. Dual vis-NIR emissive complexes with a ytterbium quantum yield of 1.5% were obtained.
Naringenin prevents TNF-α-induced gut-vascular barrier disruption associated with inhibiting the NF-κB-mediated MLCK/p-MLC and NLRP3 pathways
Authors: Zhong Jia , Yu Ruyang , Zhou Qilyu , Liu Ping , Liu Zhongjie , Bian Yifei
Published: February 2021

The microvasculature endothelium accurately regulates the passage of molecules across the gut-vascular barrier (GVB), which plays an essential role in intestinal immunity.
Synthesis and immunological evaluation of the unnatural β-linked mucin-1 Thomsen–Friedenreich conjugate
Authors: Wu Xuanjun , McFall-Boegeman Hunter , Rashidijahanabad Zahra , Liu Kunli , Pett Christian , Yu Jin , Schorlemer Manuel , Ramadan Sherif , Behren Sandra , Westerlind Ulrika , Huang Xuefei
Published: February 2021

A MUC1 glycopeptide bearing an unnatural β-glycosyl bond between the glycan and the peptide backbone was synthesized. The mimic can induce high levels of IgG antibodies cross-recognizing cancer cells expressing the native MUC1 glycoprotein.
Copper-assisted synthesis of dihydropyrano[2.3-b]indole-4-ones by domino cascade reaction
Authors: Luo Yang , Zhong Xue , Huang Jiang-Kun , He Ling
Published: February 2021

A novel copper-catalyzed cascade intermolecular and intramolecular oxidation/cyclization domino one-pot reaction process for the regioselective synthesis of dihydropyrano[2.3-b]indol-4(9H)-ones has been successfully developed.
In situ cross-linking polymerization-induced self-assembly not only generates cross-linked structures but also promotes morphology transition by the cross-linker
Authors: Kadirkhanov Jamshid , Yang Cheng-Lin , Chang Zi-Xuan , Zhu Ren-Man , Pan Cai-Yuan , You Ye-Zi , Zhang Wen-Jian , Hong Chun-Yan
Published: February 2021

Not only cross-linked structures but also a promoting effect on morphology transition has been observed during the in situ cross-linking PISA by RAFT dispersion copolymerization of 2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate and cystaminebismethacrylamide.
Anion-enhanced excited state charge separation in a spiro-locked N-heterocycle-fused push-pull zinc porphyrin
Authors: Chahal Mandeep K. , Liyanage Anuradha , Alsaleh Ajyal Z. , Karr Paul A. , Hill Jonathan P. , D'Souza Francis
Published: February 2021

A new type of push–pull charge transfer complex, viz., a spiro-locked N-heterocycle-fused zinc porphyrin, ZnP-SQ, is shown to undergo excited state charge separation, which is enhanced by axial F− binding to the Zn center.
Redox-induced reversible [2 + 2] cycloaddition of an etheno-fused diporphyrin
Authors: Miyagawa Kazuya , Hisaki Ichiro , Fukui Norihito , Shinokubo Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

A four-electron oxidation of an X-shaped tetraporphyrin affords stable etheno-fused diporphyrin dications through double C–C bond cleavage. The reduction of the dication recovers the tetraporphyrin via a thermal [2 + 2] cycloaddition.
Review on carbonaceous materials as persulfate activators: structure–performance relationship, mechanism and future perspectives on water treatment
Authors: Oyekunle Daniel T. , Zhou Xinquan , Shahzad Ajmal , Chen Zhuqi
Published: February 2021

This review discuss the recent structural adjustments, modifications and modulation of carbonaceous materials in relation to how they affect the persulfate activation performance.
Low-dimensional nanomaterials for antibacterial applications
Authors: Hu Xi-Le , Shang Ying , Yan Kai-Cheng , Sedgwick Adam C. , Gan Hui-Qi , Chen Guo-Rong , He Xiao-Peng , James Tony D. , Chen Daijie
Published: February 2021

In this review we discuss the development of nanomaterial based systems for antibacterial applications.
Tannic acid-inspired, self-healing, and dual stimuli responsive dynamic hydrogel with potent antibacterial and anti-oxidative properties
Authors: Shi Wen , Kong Yunfan , Su Yajuan , Kuss Mitchell A. , Jiang Xiping , Li Xiaowei , Xie Jingwei , Duan Bin
Published: February 2021

Tannic acid cross-linked dynamic hydrogels hybridized with tannic acid reduced silver nanoparticles shows multi-functional properties including dual stimuli responsive drug release, anti-bacterial and anti-reactive oxygen species abilities.