bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical optimization of microfluidic vortex shedding for genome editing T cells with Cas9
Authors: Jarrell Justin A. , Sytsma Brandon J. , Wilson Leah H. , Pan Fong L. , Lau Katherine H. W. J. , Kirby Giles T. S. , Lievano Adrian A. , Pawell Ryan S.
Published: June 2021

Microfluidic vortex shedding (µVS) can rapidly deliver mRNA to T cells with high yield and minimal perturbation of the cell state. The mechanistic underpinning of µVS intracellular delivery remains undefined and µVS-Cas9 genome editing requires further studies. Herein, we evaluated a series of µVS devices containing splitter plates to attenuate vortex shedding and understand the contribution of computed force and frequency on efficiency and viability. We then selected a µVS design to knockout the expression of the endogenous T cell receptor in primary human T cells via delivery of Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) with and without brief exposure to an electric field (eµVS). µVS alone resulted in an equivalent yield of genome-edited T cells relative to electroporation with improved cell quality. A 1.8-fold increase in editing efficiency was demonstrated with eµVS with negligible impact on cell viability. Herein, we demonstrate efficient processing of 5 × 106 cells suspend in 100 µl of cGMP OptiMEM in under 5 s, with the capacity of a single device to process between 106 to 108 in 1 to 30 s. Cumulatively, these results demonstrate the rapid and robust utility of µVS and eµVS for genome editing human primary T cells with Cas9 RNPs.
Evaluation of hydrophobically associating cationic starch-based flocculants in sludge dewatering
Authors: Hu Pan , Shen Shaohang , Yang Hu
Published: June 2021

Two series of binary graft cationic starch-based flocculants (CS-DMCs and CS-DMLs) with different hydrophilicity and charge density (CD) were prepared by graft copolymerization of acrylamide with 2-(Methacryloyloxy)-N,N,N-trimethylethanaminium chloride and methacrylic acid 2-(benzyldimethylaminio) ethyl chloride, respectively, on the starch (St) backbone. The sludge dewatering performance of CS-DMCs and CS-DMLs were evaluated and compared based on the changes in filter cake moisture content (FCMC), specific resistance of filtration (SRF), fractions and components of extracellular polymeric substances, and various physiochemical characteristics of sludge flocs and cakes. Increase in CD of the St-based flocculants caused improved sludge dewaterability. Under the similar CD, CS-DML with relatively high hydrophobicity exhibited lower FCMC and SRF, larger and denser sludge flocs, and better permeability of sludge cakes than CS-DMCs due to the synergistic effects of charge neutralization, bridging flocculation and hydrophobic association. Furthermore, a second-order polynomial model on the basis of phenomenological theory was successfully applied to quantitatively evaluate the influences of the two important structural factors of these St-based flocculants, i.e., hydrophobicity and CD, on the sludge dewaterability. The structure–activity relationship of the St-based flocculants in sludge dewatering was obtained according to the theoretic simulation. The dewatering mechanisms was discussed in depth on the basis of the experimental and simulated results; besides, the FCMC and optimal dose can be predicted by the established structure–activity relationship. This current work offered a novel and valuable way to exploit and design of low-cost and high-performance graft natural polymeric flocculants applied in efficient conditioning of sludge.
Author Correction: Association of serotonin system-related genes with homicidal behavior and criminal aggression in a prison population of Pakistani Origin
Authors: Qadeer Muhammad Imran , Amar Ali , Huang Yung‑Yu , Min Eli , Galfalvy Hanga , Hasnain Shahida , Mann J. John
Published: June 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Microbial dysbiosis reflects disease resistance in diverse coral species
Authors: MacKnight Nicholas J. , Cobleigh Kathryn , Lasseigne Danielle , Chaves-Fonnegra Andia , Gutting Alexandra , Dimos Bradford , Antoine Jendahye , Fuess Lauren , Ricci Contessa , Butler Caleb , Muller Erinn M. , Mydlarz Laura D. , Brandt Marilyn
Published: June 2021

Disease outbreaks have caused significant declines of keystone coral species. While forecasting disease outbreaks based on environmental factors has progressed, we still lack a comparative understanding of susceptibility among coral species that would help predict disease impacts on coral communities. The present study compared the phenotypic and microbial responses of seven Caribbean coral species with diverse life-history strategies after exposure to white plague disease. Disease incidence and lesion progression rates were evaluated over a seven-day exposure. Coral microbiomes were sampled after lesion appearance or at the end of the experiment if no disease signs appeared. A spectrum of disease susceptibility was observed among the coral species that corresponded to microbial dysbiosis. This dysbiosis promotes greater disease susceptiblity in coral perhaps through different tolerant thresholds for change in the microbiome. The different disease susceptibility can affect coral’s ecological function and ultimately shape reef ecosystems.
Loss of Gap Junction Delta-2 (GJD2) gene orthologs leads to refractive error in zebrafish
Authors: Quint Wim H. , Tadema Kirke C. D. , de Vrieze Erik , Lukowicz Rachel M. , Broekman Sanne , Winkelman Beerend H. J. , Hoevenaars Melanie , de Gruiter H. Martijn , van Wijk Erwin , Schaeffel Frank , Meester-Smoor Magda , Miller Adam C. , Willemsen Rob , Klaver Caroline C. W. , Iglesias Adriana I.
Published: June 2021

Myopia is the most common developmental disorder of juvenile eyes, and it has become an increasing cause of severe visual impairment. TheGJD2locus has been consistently associated with myopia in multiple independent genome-wide association studies. However, despite the strong genetic evidence, little is known about the functional role ofGJD2in refractive error development. Here, we find that depletion ofgjd2a(Cx35.5) orgjd2b(Cx35.1) orthologs in zebrafish, cause changes in the biometry and refractive status of the eye. Our immunohistological and scRNA sequencing studies show that Cx35.5 (gjd2a) is a retinal connexin and its depletion leads to hyperopia and electrophysiological changes in the retina. These findings support a role for Cx35.5 (gjd2a) in the regulation of ocular biometry. Cx35.1 (gjd2b) has previously been identified in the retina, however, we found an additional lenticular role. Lack of Cx35.1 (gjd2b) led to a nuclear cataract that triggered axial elongation. Our results provide functional evidence of a link betweengjd2and refractive error.
A multiscale 3D chemotaxis assay reveals bacterial navigation mechanisms
Authors: Grognot Marianne , Taute Katja M.
Published: June 2021

How motile bacteria navigate environmental chemical gradients has implications ranging from health to climate science, but the underlying behavioral mechanisms are unknown for most species. The well-studied navigation strategy of Escherichia coli forms a powerful paradigm that is widely assumed to translate to other bacterial species. This assumption is rarely tested because of a lack of techniques capable of bridging scales from individual navigation behavior to the resulting population-level chemotactic performance. Here, we present such a multiscale 3D chemotaxis assay by combining high-throughput 3D bacterial tracking with microfluidically created chemical gradients. Large datasets of 3D trajectories yield the statistical power required to assess chemotactic performance at the population level, while simultaneously resolving the underlying 3D navigation behavior for every individual. We demonstrate that surface effects confound typical 2D chemotaxis assays, and reveal that, contrary to previous reports, Caulobacter crescentus breaks with the E. coli paradigm.
Volatile organic compound patterns predict fungal trophic mode and lifestyle
Authors: Guo Yuan , Jud Werner , Weikl Fabian , Ghirardo Andrea , Junker Robert R. , Polle Andrea , Benz J. Philipp , Pritsch Karin , Schnitzler Jörg-Peter , Rosenkranz Maaria
Published: June 2021

Fungi produce a wide variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which play central roles in the initiation and regulation of fungal interactions. Here we introduce a global overview of fungal VOC patterns and chemical diversity across phylogenetic clades and trophic modes. The analysis is based on measurements of comprehensive VOC profiles of forty-three fungal species. Our data show that the VOC patterns can describe the phyla and the trophic mode of fungi. We show different levels of phenotypic integration (PI) for different chemical classes of VOCs within distinct functional guilds. Further computational analyses reveal that distinct VOC patterns can predict trophic modes, (non)symbiotic lifestyle, substrate-use and host-type of fungi. Thus, depending on trophic mode, either individual VOCs or more complex VOC patterns (i.e., chemical communication displays) may be ecologically important. Present results stress the ecological importance of VOCs and serve as prerequisite for more comprehensive VOCs-involving ecological studies.
Novel lamprey antibody recognizes terminal sulfated galactose epitopes on mammalian glycoproteins
Authors: McKitrick Tanya R. , Bernard Steffen M. , Noll Alexander J. , Collins Bernard C. , Goth Christoffer K. , McQuillan Alyssa M. , Heimburg-Molinaro Jamie , Herrin Brantley R. , Wilson Ian A. , Cooper Max D. , Cummings Richard D.
Published: June 2021

The terminal galactose residues of N- and O-glycans in animal glycoproteins are often sialylated and/or fucosylated, but sulfation, such as 3-O-sulfated galactose (3-O-SGal), represents an additional, but poorly understood modification. To this end, we have developed a novel sea lamprey variable lymphocyte receptor (VLR) termed O6 to explore 3-O-SGal expression. O6 was engineered as a recombinant murine IgG chimera and its specificity and affinity to the 3-O-SGal epitope was defined using a variety of approaches, including glycan and glycoprotein microarray analyses, isothermal calorimetry, ligand-bound crystal structure, FACS, and immunohistochemistry of human tissue macroarrays. 3-O-SGal is expressed on N-glycans of many plasma and tissue glycoproteins, but recognition by O6 is often masked by sialic acid and thus exposed by treatment with neuraminidase. O6 recognizes many human tissues, consistent with expression of the cognate sulfotransferases (GAL3ST-2 and GAL3ST-3). The availability of O6 for exploring 3-O-SGal expression could lead to new biomarkers for disease and aid in understanding the functional roles of terminal modifications of glycans and relationships between terminal sulfation, sialylation and fucosylation.
Identification of potential chemical compounds enhancing generation of enucleated cells from immortalized human erythroid cell lines
Authors: Soboleva Svetlana , Kurita Ryo , Ek Fredrik , Åkerstrand Hugo , Silvério-Alves Rita , Olsson Roger , Nakamura Yukio , Miharada Kenichi
Published: June 2021

Immortalized erythroid cell lines are expected to be a promising source of ex vivo manufactured red blood cells (RBCs), however the induction of enucleation in these cell lines is inefficient at present. We utilized an imaging-based high-throughput system to identify chemical compounds that trigger enucleation of human erythroid cell lines. Among >3,300 compounds, we identified multiple histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) inducing enucleated cells from the cell line, although an increase in membrane fragility of enucleated cells was observed. Gene expression profiling revealed that HDACi treatment increased the expression of cytoskeletal genes, while an erythroid-specific cell membrane protein, SPTA1, was significantly down-regulated. Restoration of SPTA1 expression using CRISPR-activation partially rescued the fragility of cells and thereby improved the enucleation efficiency. Our observations provide a potential solution for the generation of mature cells from erythroid cell lines, contributing to the future realization of the use of immortalized cell lines for transfusion therapies.
SARS-CoV-2 proteins and anti-COVID-19 drugs induce lytic reactivation of an oncogenic virus
Authors: Chen Jungang , Dai Lu , Barrett Lindsey , James Jennifer , Plaisance-Bonstaff Karlie , Post Steven R. , Qin Zhiqiang
Published: June 2021

An outbreak of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19), a respiratory disease, has infected almost one hundred million people since the end of 2019, killed over two million, and caused worldwide social and economic disruption. Because the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection of host cells and its pathogenesis remain largely unclear, there are currently no antiviral drugs with proven efficacy. Besides severe respiratory and systematic symptoms, several comorbidities increase risk of fatal disease outcome. Therefore, it is required to investigate the impacts of COVID-19 on pre-existing diseases of patients, such as cancer and other infectious diseases. In the current study, we report that SARS-CoV-2 encoded proteins and some currently used anti-COVID-19 drugs are able to induce lytic reactivation of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), one of major human oncogenic viruses, through manipulation of intracellular signaling pathways. Our data indicate that those KSHV + patients especially in endemic areas exposure to COVID-19 or undergoing the treatment may have increased risks to develop virus-associated cancers, even after they have fully recovered from COVID-19.
Single-nucleotide conservation state annotation of the SARS-CoV-2 genome
Authors: Kwon Soo Bin , Ernst Jason
Published: June 2021

Given the global impact and severity of COVID-19, there is a pressing need for a better understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 genome and mutations. Multi-strain sequence alignments of coronaviruses (CoV) provide important information for interpreting the genome and its variation. We apply a comparative genomics method, ConsHMM, to the multi-strain alignments of CoV to annotate every base of the SARS-CoV-2 genome with conservation states based on sequence alignment patterns among CoV. The learned conservation states show distinct enrichment patterns for genes, protein domains, and other regions of interest. Certain states are strongly enriched or depleted of SARS-CoV-2 mutations, which can be used to predict potentially consequential mutations. We expect the conservation states to be a resource for interpreting the SARS-CoV-2 genome and mutations.
Atomistic insight into lithospheric conductivity revealed by phonon–electron excitations in hydrous iron-bearing silicates
Authors: Mihailova Boriana , Della Ventura Giancarlo , Waeselmann Naemi , Xu Wei , Schlüter Jochen , Galdenzi Federico , Marcelli Augusto , Redhammer Günther J. , Boiocchi Massimo , Oberti Roberta
Published: June 2021

Amphiboles are essential components of the continental crust and subduction zones showing anomalous anisotropic conductivity. Rock properties depend on the physical properties of their constituent minerals, which in turn depend on the crystal phonon and electron density of states. Here, to address the atomic-scale mechanism of the peculiar rock conductivity, we applied in situ temperature-dependent Raman spectroscopy, sensitive to both phonon and electron states, to Fe2+-rich amphiboles. The observed anisotropic resonance Raman scattering at elevated temperatures, in combination with density-functional-theory modelling, reveals a direction-dependent formation of mobile polarons associated with coupled FeO6 phonons and electron transitions. Hence, temperature-activated electron-phonon excitations in hydrous iron-bearing chain and layered silicates are the atomistic source of anisotropic lithospheric conductivity. Furthermore, reversible delocalization of H+ occurs at similar temperatures even in a reducing atmosphere. The occurrence of either type of charge carriers does not require initial mixed-valence state of iron or high oxygen fugacity in the system.
Sub- and supersonic elastic waves in an annular hole phononic metamaterial
Authors: Pouya Caroline , Nash Geoff R.
Published: June 2021

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices are used in a wide range of applications including sensing and microfluidics, and are now being developed for applications such as quantum computing. As with photonics, and other electromagnetic radiation, metamaterials offer an exciting route to control and manipulate SAW propagation, which could lead to new device concepts and paradigms. In this work we demonstrate that a phononic metamaterial comprising an array of annular hole resonators can be used to realise frequency control of SAW velocity. We show, using simulations and experiment, that metamaterial patterning on a lithium niobate substrate allows control of SAW phase velocities to values slower and faster than the velocity in an unpatterned substrate; namely, to ~85% and ~130% of the unpatterned SAW velocity, respectively. This approach could lead to novel designs for SAW devices, such as delay lines and chirp filters, but could also be applied to other elastic waves.
The mechanism underlying the functionalisation of cobalt nanoparticles by carboxylic acids: a first-principles computational study
Authors: Farkaš Barbara , Terranova Umberto , de Leeuw Nora H.
Published: June 2021

Ab initio methods resolve mechanism behind carboxylic acid functionalisation of cobalt nanoparticles and identify the fate of dissociated hydrogen atoms.
Effects of nanoconfinement and surface charge on iron adsorption on mesoporous silica
Authors: Greathouse Jeffery A. , Duncan Tyler J. , Ilgen Anastasia G. , Harvey Jacob A. , Criscenti Louise J. , Knight Andrew W.
Published: June 2021

A combination of molecular simulation and X-ray adsorption spectroscopy reveal the effects of pore size and nanoconfinement on the adsorption and surface complexation of aqueous iron at amorphous silica surfaces.
2,2′-(Arylenedivinylene)bis-8-hydroxyquinolines exhibiting aromatic π–π stacking interactions as solution-processable p-type organic semiconductors for high-performance organic field effect transistors
Authors: Sehlangia Suman , Sharma Shivani , Sharma Satinder K. , Pradeep Chullikkattil P.
Published: June 2021

A new class of solution-processable small molecule organic semiconductors that are capable of functioning at low operating voltages (∼6 V) have been developed and their structure–activity correlation has been studied using crystallographic analyses.
De novo molecular drug design benchmarking
Authors: Grant Lauren L. , Sit Clarissa S.
Published: June 2021

Deep neural networks (DNNs) used for de novo drug design have different architectures and hyperparameters that impact the final output of suggested drug candidates. Herein we review benchmarking platforms that assess the utility and validity of DNNs.
Transduction between magnets and ions
Authors: Wang Yecheng , Xie Shejuan , Bai Yang , Suo Zhigang , Jia Kun
Published: June 2021

A time-varying magnetic field generates an electric field in an ionic conductor, causing ions to move and inducing an ionic current. This magnetoionic transduction enables ionotronic transformers for signal transduction between electrons and ions.
Molecular engineering of a colorless, extremely tough, superiorly self-recoverable, and healable poly(urethane–urea) elastomer for impact-resistant applications
Authors: Wang Dong , Wang ZhiFeng , Ren ShangYang , Xu JianHua , Wang Cheng , Hu Po , Fu JiaJun
Published: June 2021

Molecular engineering of a microphase separated structure to convert a weak, soft and self-healing polymer to a strong, tough, resilient, and healable poly(urethane–urea) elastomer, which is in great demand for transparent protection engineering.
A mineralization strategy based on T-cell membrane coated CaCO3 nanoparticles against breast cancer and metastasis
Authors: Li Yanhua , Zhang Xia , Liu Xiaohan , Pan Wei , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: June 2021

For treatment of breast cancer and inhibition of its metastatic, a mineralization strategy based on T-cell membrane coated CaCO3 nanoparticles was developed to specifically mineralize cancer cells.
1,2,4,5-Tetrazine derivatives as components and precursors of photo- and electroactive materials
Authors: Lipunova Galina N. , Nosova Emiliya V. , Zyryanov Grigory V. , Charushin Valery N. , Chupakhin Oleg N.
Published: June 2021

Synthetic approaches to 3,6-disubstituted-1,2,4,5-tetrazine systems are analyzed, and their properties attractive to practical applications in photo- and electroactive materials are overviewed.
Enantioselective organocatalytic sequential Michael-cyclization of functionalized nitroalkanes to 2-hydroxycinnamaldehydes: synthesis of benzofused dioxa[3.3.1] and oxa[4.3.1] methylene-bridged compounds
Authors: Peng Chen-Jun , Pei Jun-Ping , Chen Ying-Han , Wu Zhi-Yong , Liu Ming , Liu Yan-Kai
Published: June 2021

An organocatalytic enantioselective conjugate addition-initiated reaction sequence of 2-hydroxycinnamaldehydes with various functionalized nitroalkanes has been described to synthesize structurally diverse chromane-containing compounds.
Photoredox-mediated N-centered radical addition/semipinacol rearrangement for the convenient synthesis of β-amino (spiro)cyclic ketones
Authors: Ma Tian-Cong , Yao Sheng , Qiao Ming-Ming , Yuan Fan , Shi De-Qing , Xiao Wen-Jing
Published: June 2021

A photoredox-mediated N-centered radical addition/semipinacol rearrangement cascade of cycloalkanol-substituted 1H-indenes or styrenes with N-arylsulfonyl protected 1-aminopyridinium salts for the efficient synthesis of β-amino (spiro)cyclic ketones is presented.
Cobalt-catalyzed carbonylative cycloaddition of substituted diynes to access complexed polycyclic compounds
Authors: Wang Jian-Shu , Wang Qi , Zhu Yiwen , Gao Qian , Ying Jun , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: June 2021

A cobalt-catalyzed domino Pauson–Khand and [4 + 2] cycloaddition of substituted diynes has been developed for the rapid construction of complexed polycyclic ring systems.
Graphene/silver-based composites and coating on dead coral for degradation of organic pollution using the Z-scheme mechanism
Authors: Nooriha Najafabadi Maedeh , Ghanbari Hajar , Naghizadeh Rahim
Published: June 2021

A high-performance photocatalytic nanocomposite consisting of silver phosphate-based particles with GO and RGO was synthesized by co-precipitation and hydrothermal methods.
Study on the mechanism of synthetic (Ce,La)CO3F sulfuric acid acidification and NH3-SCR loaded with Mn and Fe
Authors: Li Na , Chen Zedong , Bai Xinrui , Hou Limin , Jiao Kunling , Wu Wenfei
Published: June 2021

A hydrothermal method was used to synthesise (Ce,La)CO3F grain simulated minerals, in accordance with the Ce–La ratio of bastnaesite in the mineralogy of the Bayan Ebo process.
Electrostatically excited liquid marble as a micromixer
Authors: Nguyen Nhat-Khuong , Singha Pradip , An Hongjie , Phan Hoang-Phuong , Nguyen Nam-Trung , Ooi Chin Hong
Published: June 2021

Liquid marble as a micromixer. Particles suspended in a transparent liquid marble is dispersed in a time lapse photo. The colour change from red to purple shows the particle position from the first frame to the last frame.
Boosting the water splitting activity of cobalt nitride through morphological design: a comparison of the influence of structure on the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Liu Tingting , Cai Sheng , Mei Zhiyuan , Zhao Genfu , Xu Lufu , An Qi , Fu Yao , Wang Han , Li Mian , Guo Hong
Published: June 2021

A novel 3D flower-like CoN-F catalyst consisting of 2D porous CoN nanosheets has been successfully created, and it reveals much better HER/OER electrocatalytic abilities than spherical CoN-S and polyhedral CoN-S control samples.
Fluidization and reaction behavior in chemical looping gasification of lignite
Authors: Yang Jie , Liu Shengyu , Guo Zhiying , Ao Ran , Dai Quxiu , Sun Yuxin , Deng Zhiyong , Tan Xiandong , Yang Yijin , Ma Liping
Published: June 2021

Chemical looping gasification (CLG) is a recommended method for lignite gasification, and the product syngas is a mixture of H2, CO, and other gases.
Skin-inspired self-healing semiconductive touch panel based on novel transparent stretchable hydrogels
Authors: Guo Xingkui , Yang Fan , Liu Wenbo , Han Chuang , Bai Yujiao , Sun Xiaolu , Hao Lifeng , Jiao Weicheng , Wang Rongguo
Published: June 2021

Inspired by the human skin that can intrinsically and automatically heal damages, and maintain the original functionalities and structure stability, a self-healing semiconductive touch panel is developed based on the TiO2nanocomposite hydrogel.
Fe containing template derived atomic Fe–N–C to boost Fenton-like reaction and charge migration analysis on highly active Fe–N4 sites
Authors: Gao Yuan , Duan Xiaoguang , Li Bin , Jia Qianqian , Li Yang , Fan Xiaobin , Zhang Fengbao , Zhang Guoliang , Wang Shaobin , Peng Wenchao
Published: June 2021

Atomic Fe–N–C materials derived from pyridine deposition on Fe containing templates transfer electrons from C to Fe via C–N–Fe bonds to highly activate PMS to generate O2˙− for AOPs.
A phase-change gel based pressure sensor with tunable sensitivity for artificial tactile feedback systems
Authors: Jing Houchao , Xu Lin , Wang Xuanqi , Liu Yaqing , Hao Jingcheng
Published: June 2021

A pressure sensor based on a phase-change gel shows tunable sensitivity and generates tactile feedback for adaptive grasping.
Silicon-integrated lead-free BaTiO3-based film capacitors with excellent energy storage performance and highly stable irradiation resistance
Authors: Zhao Fan , Wu Yilin , Dai Yanzhu , Hu Guangliang , Liu Ming , Gao Runlong , Liu Linyue , Liu Xin , Cheng Yonghong , Hu Tian-Yi , Ma Chunrui , Hu Dengwei , Ouyang Xiaoping , Jia Chun-Lin
Published: June 2021

The energy storage density and thermal stability of silicon-based lead-free BZTS film capacitors are greatly improved by inserting a high resistance dielectric HfO2 buffer layer between the BZTS thin film and the Si substrate.
Enhanced solar-to-hydrogen efficiency for photocatalytic water splitting based on a polarized heterostructure: the role of intrinsic dipoles in heterostructures
Authors: Liu Xinyi , Cheng Peng , Zhang Xiuhai , Shen Tao , Liu Jia , Ren Ji-Chang , Wang Hongqiang , Li Shuang , Liu Wei
Published: June 2021

In2Se3/SnP3 Z-scheme photocatalyst with a high solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiency of 19.26%.
(Nano)tag–antibody conjugates in rapid tests
Authors: Mahmoudi Tohid , Pourhassan-Moghaddam Mohammad , Shirdel Behnaz , Baradaran Behzad , Morales-Narváez Eden , Golmohammadi Hamed
Published: June 2021

Antibodies are naturally derived materials with favorable affinity, selectivity, and fast binding kinetics to the respective antigens, which enables their application as promising recognition elements in the development of various types of rapid tests.
Shape anisotropic magnetic thrombolytic actuators: synthesis and systematic behavior study
Authors: Zakharzhevskii Maxim A. , Anastasova Elizaveta I. , Kladko Daniil V. , Prilepskii Artur Y. , Gorshkova Maria N. , Vinnik Denis A. , Taskaev Sergey V. , Vinogradov Vladimir V.
Published: June 2021

We provide a systematic study of rotating magnetic field (RMF)-mediated mechanically-assisted thrombolysis. Different shapes of magnetic actuators are of significant importance for this approach. Even old blood clots can be dissolved with RMF.
AIE-active polyelectrolyte based photosensitizers: the effects of structure on antibiotic-resistant bacterial sensing and killing and pollutant decomposition
Authors: Xie Hui , Hu Wanshan , Zhang Fei , Zhao Changbo , Peng Tingting , Zhu Caizhen , Xu Jian
Published: June 2021

The antibiotic-resistant bacterial sensing and killing, and pollutant decomposition mechanism of AIE active polyelectrolyte based photosensitizers under light irradiation.
Vibronic barrier effect of magnetic relaxation in single-molecule magnets
Authors: Zhai Yuan-Qi , Zheng Yan-Zhen
Published: June 2021

Two fundamental puzzles (under-barrier spin relaxation and low Raman exponents) inside magnetic relaxation have long been studied. New theory brings revolutionary treatments, which provide new design rules for high-performant single-molecule magnet.
Highly efficient ultra-flexible tandem organic light-emitting diodes adopting a non-doped charge generation unit
Authors: Wang Jiong , Wang Yuzhu , Qin Yue , Li Ruiqing , An Jing-xi , Chen Yuehua , Lai Wen-Yong , Zhang Xinwen , Huang Wei
Published: June 2021

An efficient CGU is applied to the high efficiency super-flexible white TOLEDs, which show a higher PE than the single OLEDs. After being bent for 3000 cycles, the devices retain ∼90% of the original luminance.
First principles investigations of the optical selectivity of titanium carbide-based materials for concentrating solar power applications
Authors: Kim Won June , Mesbah Adel , Deschanels Xavier , Bernard Samuel , Lebègue Sébastien
Published: June 2021

Boron doped TiC shows improved optical selectivity for concentrating solar power applications.
Manipulating matrix stacking modes for ultralong-duration organic room-temperature phosphorescence in trace isomer doping systems
Authors: Yuan Shou , Sun QiKun , Wang Yaguang , Yue Lingtai , Ma Jie , Zhang Yuefa , Zhang Haichang , Xue Shanfeng , Yang Wenjun
Published: June 2021

The experimental results revealed that cognate π–π stacking between matrix carbazole rings is detrimental to RTP lifetime and afterglow and that breaking such aggregations can increase RTP lifetime and enhance RTP afterglow.
Distinguishing Spastic and Dystonic Features in a Patient With a History of Brainstem Encephalitis: A Clinical Case Study
Authors: Clark Heather M.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

One role of a speech-language pathologist (SLP) is to differentially diagnose motor speech disorders to aid physicians, typically neurologists, in establishing a medical diagnosis. The present case study describes the clinical problem solving undertaken by the SLP to characterize the nature of neurological deficits to develop an appropriate management plan.

Method

The patient is a 29-year-old man with a history of brainstem encephalitis who presented for evaluation of dysarthria, dysphagia, and gait difficulties. The neurological exam characterized a spastic dysarthria. The SLP conducted a motor speech examination expressly for the purpose of differential diagnosis.

Results

The patient exhibited features of spastic dysarthria including strained phonation and hypernasality, equivocally slow rate associated with intermittent interword pauses rather than lengthened segments, and articulatory imprecision in the absence of weakness or slowness of the articulators. Defining features of spastic dysarthria absent from his speech were monopitch and monoloudness, as well as slow alternate motion rates. A diagnosis of hyperkinetic dysarthria associated with dystonia was informed by (a) hypernasality disproportionate to other deviant speech features, with preserved reflexive velar movements and nonspeech movements; (b) adventitious lip pursing; (c) modest improvement in speech with sensory tricks; (d) mild and intermittent phonatory strain; and (e) normal nonspeech oral motor function.

Conclusions

This case demonstrates the role speech-language pathology can play in the neurological assessment and management process. The recognition by the SLP of hyperkinetic dysarthria led to additional diagnostic tests and to a broader range of options for medical management.
A global view on star formation: The GLOSTAR Galactic plane survey
Authors: Brunthaler A. , Menten K. M. , Dzib S. A. , Cotton W. D. , Wyrowski F. , Dokara R. , Gong Y. , Medina S.-N. X. , Müller P. , Nguyen H. , Ortiz-León G. N. , Reich W. , Rugel M. R. , Urquhart J. S. , Winkel B. , Yang A. Y. , Beuther H. , Billington S. , Carrasco-Gonzalez C. , Csengeri T. , Murugeshan C. , Pandian J. D. , Roy N.
Published: June 2021

Aims.Surveys of the Milky Way at various wavelengths have changed our view of star formation in our Galaxy considerably in recent years. In this paper we give an overview of the GLOSTAR survey, a new survey covering large parts (145 square degrees) of the northern Galactic plane using theKarl G. JanskyVery Large Array in the frequency range 4−8 GHz and the Effelsberg 100-m telescope. This provides for the first time a radio survey covering all angular scales down to 1.5 arcsecond, similar to complementary near-IR and mid-IR galactic plane surveys. We outline the main goals of the survey and give a detailed description of the observations and the data reduction strategy.

Methods.In our observations we covered the radio continuum in full polarization, as well as the 6.7 GHz methanol maser line, the 4.8 GHz formaldehyde line, and seven radio recombination lines. The observations were conducted in the most compact D configuration of the VLA and in the more extended B configuration. This yielded spatial resolutions of 18″ and 1.5″ for the two configurations, respectively. We also combined the D configuration images with the Effelsberg 100-m data to provide zero spacing information, and we jointly imaged the D- and B-configuration data for optimal sensitivity of the intermediate spatial ranges.

Results.Here we show selected results for the first part of the survey, covering the range of 28° <l < 36° and |b|< 1°, including the full low-resolution continuum image, examples of high-resolution images of selected sources, and the first results from the spectral line data.
Sound signal of the Himalayan marmot in its insular range
Authors: Nikol’skii Alexander , Vanisova Elena , Belovezhets Konstantin
Published: June 2021

The range of Himalayan marmot (Marmota himalayana Hodgson, 1841) has an insular character, as it is limited by ecological and geographical barriers: in the north, northeast and east, these are deserts and the Loess Plateau, in the west - mountain peaks covered with glaciers and rivers, in the south - forests of the southern macro slope of the Himalayas. Only in the northwest of the range there is an ecological corridor. The geographical isolation of populations of marmots provokes the divergence of alarm call, which is one of the obvious genetically determined features. The results of cluster analysis based on a complex of features of the sound signal coincide with the results of analysis using nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. The projection of variability on the structure and history of the landscape contributes to understand the ecological and geographical factors of divergence as the basis for the process of speciation.
Influence of abiotic factors on biodiversity of the populations of bivalve molluscs of the Lower Zarafshan reservoirs
Authors: Boymurodov Khusniddin , Khasanov Nodir
Published: June 2021

The length of the reservoir area on the banks of the Zarafshan River and the presence of all biotopes inhabited by molluscs of the Unionidae and Corbisulidae families have made the basin a comfortable aquatic ecosystem for molluscs. The influence of rivers and fisheries on the formation of the fauna of bivalve molluscs in reservoirs is significant. We found that 10 species and 2 subspecies of bivalve molluscs were distributed in the Kuymazor reservoir and 8 species and 2 subspecies of bivalve molluscs in Shurkul. Reservoirs of Sinanodonta species are shown for the first time by us. These molluscs belong to the ecological groups like peloreophilic, rheophilic and pelolimnophilic. In the water reservoirs of Uzbekistan, the spread of bivalve molluscs by groups has common features. In all water reservoirs, an ecological group called peloreophil prevails, but the species belonging to the ecological group atre different in different water bodies. Such species of pedloelphils as Sinanodonta gibba, S. orbicularis, Corbiculina tibetensis and C. ferghanensis are predominantly found in rivers, fish farms, and water reservoirs. The most common species in the canals are Corbiculina tibetensis and C. ferghanensis. The next frequent occurrence in water reservoirs is the ecological group of rheophiles.
The role of macrozoobenthos and periphyton in bioindication of water resources quality in Uzbekistan
Authors: Kurbanov Abdulla , Titova Natalie , Mustaphaeva Zuri , Atabaeva Nargis
Published: June 2021

The material was collected during the open water period from March to the end of November 2019. In the period of our research in the basin of the Chirchik river (Boshkizylsay river, Ugam river (pre-settlement site), Chirchik river) were discovered several types of zoobenthos and periphyton. The monitoring was carried out on 8 stations, in total of 64 quantitative samples of macrozoobenthos and periphyton were taken. Anthropogenic pollution causes changes in the composition and structure of aquatic communities, expressed in the change of dominant complexes of organisms, the simplification of the ecological structure, the appearance of highly saprobic species in the composition of the dominants.
Environment tolerance of Cunninghamia konishii Hayata in northern of Vietnam
Authors: Pham Mai Phuong
Published: June 2021

Cunninghamia konishii Hayata is one of the rarest timber trees in Vietnam, that have a high scientific and commercial value for timber and essential oil. According to the IUCN, the species is treated as Endangered (EN)-A2cd; B2ab (ii, iii, v) (IUCN), and Near Threatened (VU) - A1a, d, c1 according to Vietnam Red Data Book. We conducted research on the environment tolerance of the this species to determine the key climatic, soil, and topographic threshold that limits species occurrence in order to find scientific basis for ecosystem management. A survey in northern Vietnam was implemented to determine the natural distribution and damage to C. konishii by human interactions, and local cultivation. Fourteen social-environmental factors were investigated within five committee authorities focus group discussions (FGDs) from the document of questionnaire completed by nine commune heads. The result showed the highest sustainable index (SI) was focused in the Que Phong (A3), Ky Son (A1), communes. This suggests that SI was related to soil erosion (F1).
The adaptive capabilities of Elodea canadensis under the influence of anthropogenic factors
Authors: Bondareva Lydia , Sorokina Galina
Published: June 2021

Studies on the potential adaptation of one of the common aquatic macrophytes Elodea canadensis when immersed in a medium containing anthropogenic pollutants of various origins – metals (inorganic salts); organic salts, mineral acids; oil and its derivatives - water-soluble petrochemicals. It was found that almost all the studied pollutants do not show a clear external effect on the solid fragments of the plant (cell membranes). Thus, it was shown that Elodea canadensis is tolerant of anthropogenic pollutants that differ in nature, hazard class, physico-chemical properties, etc.
Anthropogenic Impacts on Karst example of Lusaka
Authors: Kayombo Robert , Mazina Svetlana E.
Published: June 2021

A study was aimed at assessing the anthropogenic impacts on Karst water in Lusaka’s Chainda peri-urban area on the quality of groundwater by physical, chemical and microbiological indicators. It was observed that concentrations of the Total and Faecal Coliforms in all the samples from the shallow wells and private boreholes were all above the Zambia Bureau of Standards. In terms of bacteriological quality, the water used for consumption in Chainda is poor. This poses great danger to human health. pH values of all the samples tested were within the Zambia Bureau of Standards.The study also revealed that the karst water in Chainda is high in nitrates due to lack of sanitation facilities. Nitrates concentration were above the Zambian Bureau of Standards of 10mg/l in all the shallow wells and private boreholes. While nitrate concentrations in water kiosks of LWSC are below ZABS.
Behaviour and distribution of heavy metals at the boundary of “water-bottom sediments” in mouth zones of rivers
Authors: Mikhailenko Anna , Dotsenko Irina , Ovsepyan Asya , Zimovets Alina
Published: June 2021

The aquatic elementary landscapes of the Don and Northern Dvina Rivers mouth zones as arenas of mass transfer of heavy metals (HM) are studied. The results of long-term comprehensive studies of the authors, which included sampling of water and the upper layer of bottom sediments in order to determine the content of mercury, copper, methane, hydrogen sulfide, as well as pH and Eh values, are presented. According to the type of prevailing geochemical conditions and the level of anthropogenic impact, natural, man-made and natural-anthropogenic aquatic elementary landscapes are distinguished. The bottom water layers in both rivers were characterized by positive Eh values, but it should be noted that they were generally relatively low for surface watercourses. According to the values of the redox potential and the hydrogen index, the methane content and the total hydrogen sulfide, the presence of the following conditions is proved – oxygen, gley, hydrogen sulfide, oxygen-gley and gley-hydrogen sulfide. At the water - sediment interface, in most cases, there was a decrease in pH values by the first tenths of the values, while Eh usually decreased quite sharply, often to negative values. In terms of methane content, the bottom sediments of the aquatic elementary landscapes of the Don and Northern Dvina rivers were similar, while the concentration of total hydrogen sulfide was higher in the Don. It is shown that in the mouth zone of the Don and Northern Dvina rivers, in areas subject to constant organic pollution and eutrophication, there is an increase in the total content of mercury and copper in the bottom sediments. Higher concentrations of gross mercury will generally be found in natural and anthropogenic landscapes dominated by hydrogen sulfide and gley-hydrogen sulfide environments. The important role of microparticles of the polydisperse medium of bottom sediments in the deposition of copper and mercury is revealed.
Correlation analysis of heavy metals content in bottom sediments of the shallow zone Sheksninskaya spur of the Rybinsk reservoir in the city of Cherepovets (Russia, Vologda oblast)
Authors: Neporozhniaia Inna , Snetkova Irina
Published: June 2021

The paper presents the results on the content of heavy metals in the bottom sediments of shallow areas of the Sheksninsky spur and the correlation dependences on the content of heavy metals. Significant differences in the content of heavy metals on different banks of the Sheksninsky spur were found only for lead (p=0.042). The matrices of paired correlations were constructed, the analysis of which showed that a greater number of dependencies with heavy metals were found on the right bank. The sorption of mercury by organic matter plays a greater role than the sorption of other elements, the correlation is significant r=0.70. Single exceedances of maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) of lead and copper in bottom sediments of the right bank were detected. Exceedances of element clarks determined for the earth crust were observed for lead, zinc, copper for bottom sediments of the right bank. A decreasing series of distribution of heavy metal concentrations in bottom sediments of the Sheksninsky spur was determined.
Mining production as a factor of transformation of soils and soil cover
Authors: Timofeeva Yulya , Sukhacheva Elena
Published: June 2021

The article describes the component composition of the soil cover in the areas of mining granite material near Kuznechnoe, Leningrad region. Nonsoils formations take about 50 per cent of the study area. There are natural and varying degrees disturbed soils in this area around excavations of the quarry. Soils with Novic qualifiers are formed along the access roads to the quarry. There are stratified natural soils are diagnosed around the quarry in the direction of the rose diagram. Lithic Leptosol are formed at the crushed granite storage site. The degree of transformation of the component composition of the soil cover depends on anthropogenic activity in the territory adjacent to granite quarry has been defined. The article outlines the characteristics of the altered structure of the soil cover.
Total mercury level in tissues of commercial mammalian species (wild boar, moose) of the Russky Sever National Park (North-West of Russia)
Authors: Eltsova Liubov , Ivanova Elena
Published: June 2021

Bioaccumulation of mercury in the food chain can pose a threat to human health. Therefore, in our article, we obtained data on the concentrations of mercury in the tissues of wild animals, which are a food resource for humans. We determined the mercury concentrations in liver, kidneys, muscles and hair of wild boar and moose, which are consumed by the population of the Russky Sever National Park. The average mercury concentrations in moose tissues ranged from 0.004 mg / kg wet weight in muscles to 0.079 mg / kg wet weight in kidneys. The average concentrations of mercury in boar tissues ranged from 0.136 mg / kg wet weight in wool to 0.711 mg / kg wet weight in kidneys. The main trends of mercury bioaccumulation in the tissues of moose and wild boar were determined.
Mercury content in the hair of residents of Babushkinsky district, Vologda region, Russia
Authors: Rumiantseva Olga , Ivanova Elena , Poddubnaya Nadezhda , Protasevich Ulyana
Published: June 2021

Mercury is a highly toxic metal for all living organisms. Even low doses of the organic form of mercury can cause disruption in some functions of the human body. The content of mercury in the hair of residents (n=71) of Babushkinsky district, Vologda region, Russia was determined. Babushkinsky district is located away from industrial sources of mercury. Mercury concentrations were determined using a mercury analyzer RA-915M. The average mercury content in the hair of residents of Babushkinsky district, Vologda region was 0.398 mg/kg. 8% of the study participants had mercury levels in their hair above 1 mg/kg. There were no differences in the content of mercury in the hair between males (0.540 mg/kg) and females (0.344 mg/kg). The differences were established depending on age: under 30 years old (0.208 mg/kg), over 30 years (0.582 mg/kg). There is also a correlation between mercury in the hair and age. People who eat fish several times a week have twice as much mercury (0.538 mg/kg) as people who eat fish less than once a month (0.262 mg/kg).
Analysis of staged treatment and some socio-hygienic and biological factors for the onset and course of gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer
Authors: Tukhtaev M.K. , Tukhtaeva N.M.
Published: June 2021

In a social-hygienic study, some factors influencing the occurrence and dynamics of the course of gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer in 379 patients were studied. The results of the data show that the complete staged treatment (polyclinic, hospital, sanatorium) is not carried out for all patients (24.3%) for the entire study period. In the first year of the disease, it was carried out in only 6.8% of patients. To determine the strength of the influence of some socio-hygienic and biological factors on the dynamics of the course of peptic ulcer disease, we used the method of analysis of variance. The analysis of the dynamics of gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer with the calculation of a static assessment, which reliability is quite convincing, made it possible to conclude with maximum reliability that the dynamics of the disease, in addition to surgical treatment 45.1% (with complications in the form), is most strongly influenced by the nutrition factor 8.5% ... The effect of other factors is approximately the same: material housing conditions 6.6%, the psychological factor 6.5% and working conditions 4.5%.